By Angela Jenkins, LENA President

5K or approximately 3.1069 miles is a long way.  I can’t do it.  It’s too hard.  Believe me, I’ve been there.  As a sprinter in my younger days, I have never been able to run any distance greater than 800M, let alone one mile!  This changed when I decided to give running a try one fall, a few years back as I convinced my friend to sign up for a running class offered by the MSCR.  Yes, I paid to run. 

It was a time when work was more important and ultimately consumed what little life I had outside of work.  And I wasn’t the only one.  My husband was on the same boat!  We wanted to change and establish work-life balance.  I have always been a fan of yoga and pilates classes.  As much as I love them, they do not provide the flexibility I needed such as the ability to drop in as needed.  Many of my friends are runners and joggers and I often hear that it is a sport where you can do on your own, with a group of friends, when you want, and go as far as you want. 

I wasn’t too motivated initially due to multiple failed attempts however I wanted to give it another try.  As fate would have it, I came across the MSCR guide that same week.  I didn’t want to do it on my own so I asked a friend to join me – it was part of my master plan to ensure I don’t talk myself out of it.  On the first day of class, I told the instructor I have never been able to run a mile and that it’s likely I’ll be the one falling behind.  She assured me I’ll do fine.  I didn’t believe her, of course.  I mean, did she not hear that I can’t even run a mile?!  I looked around at my classmates….it was a diverse bunch in age as well as gender.  The route and the plan were revealed that began with a brisk walk, then running for 30 seconds and walking for 60 seconds alternating.  That first day, I ran over 3 miles and I didn’t give up!  Nine weeks later, I completed my first 5K ever and all while I was pregnant! 

I wanted to share my story with you not because I was extraordinary by any means.  In fact, I could use a running mate or two to keep me motivated!  I share this because it was a long time ago since I last thought of how I started running and how it made me feel.  My goal was to cross the finish line, regardless of the pace and I’ve achieved it.  I’ve since completed a handful of races and often run with the MSCR group as a volunteer coach.  I’m not an advanced runner by any means nor do I consider myself a runner .  However, I hope that in sharing my story will give you the encouragement that you can do it.  And you’re in good company!    

By Ashley Bergeron, LENA Board Member

It’s that time of year again! Summer in Madison is fast approaching, and that means the season of outdoor music, food carts, and festivals is almost here.  There are two great outdoor music events that are a short walk or bike ride from our wonderful neighborhood: Sunset Music Sessions at the East Side Club and Summer Concert Series at Olbrich Botanical Gardens. 

There is nothing quite like sipping a cold beer, eating delicious food from a local food cart, and watching the sunset to wonderful music on the shores of Lake Monona during the Sunset Music Sessions.  Admission is only $5 and there are food carts, beer stands, and plenty of space to put down a picnic blanket and take in the stunning city views.    For more information, visit http://www.capitolviewpresents.com/

Bring your own snacks and beverages to Olbrich’s music series in the gardens.  Enjoy a summer evening on a picnic blanket on the Great Lawn, or walk through the gardens while listening to a wide array of music genres.  The concert series begin Tuesdays starting June 21st.  Admission is a suggested $2 donation.

Both events offer a diverse variety of music and offer a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.  They are one of the many reasons our neighborhood is so special, especially during the summer months.  See you there!