Julie Rosenbaum, 53

Volunteer Director, OSF Hospice

I've been running for 15 years.  I don't know if I can count the first few years.  I just started to run to try and keep in shape after our third son was born. I really didn't know what I was doing!!

I started running because I needed to try and get back in shape.  We had 3 sons under the age of 5, so maybe I was just running away at times!!  Just kidding!  I joined Road Runners in January 2002 and met Sharon DeDoncker.  She invited me to join her and another runner, Nonie Broski, on the bike path.  I started running with them and I ran my first marathon in Chicago in the fall of 2002.  It was an awesome experience and I've been hooked on running since then!

If I could no longer run, I would probably be pretty crabby at first, but I do like to swim and bike.

I never thought I would say this, but I ran the Hobo Race for the first time last year and I absolutely love it!  I love being out in Rock Cut and the trails!  I started running the race with Carol Bingley and we dedicated each mile to our dear friend Annie, who died from cancer last September.  I was happy with my time and I didn't even fall!

I like to run with my Tuesday night pod and the group on Sunday mornings at Rock Cut.  Actually I like to run with anybody who is available, except the fast runners!

Something most people don't know about me is that I played the accordian when I was growing up!  Somehow, that subject just doesn't come up in conversation! Ok, you can stop laughing now!  Yes, it was cool to play the accordian then, but just don't ask me to play anything now.  The only song I do remember for some reason is "Roll out the Barrel".  I like playing the guitar now and it's much easier to carry!

My favorite thing to do after a hard workout is take a very, very, very long,hot shower and yes, I like to sing in shower!

When I'm not running I  like to do anything outdoors like garden, camp, hike.  I'm a nature lover and love to hike especially in Door County or Wisconsin Dells.  I enjoy spending time with my husband John and our very active sons, Andy 25, who will be married in June, Adam 24, and Danny 20.  I also just started scrapbooking, but I can't sit still for too long!

I am inspired by the "spirit" of running.  I have met so many people who have inspired me to try harder, run longer and "dig deeper"!  I am inspired by all the different levels of runners and how each one them is ready to offer support any time.  I am still amazed that I can actually say I am a "runner".  It's a joy for me to be part of this wonderful runner's community and I enjoy every minute of it.  OK, sometimes, I do get tired, but there's always someone....usually in front of me, to cheer me on!

An obstacle or challenge I've overcome with my running is trying to stay positive and realize there's always next time.  When I first started running, if I didn't do well, I was my own worst critic.  Now, especially because of my job with hospice the last 7 years, I realize more than ever that every opportunity, every day is a gift and not to take things quite so seriously.  I still have the competitive spirit though that only runners can understand, but I don't beat myself up quite so much.

The local runner I most admire is...that's a difficult one for me to answer since I am truly inspired by all runners no matter where you are...in the front, middle or the last one in the group.  You are out there doing the best you can, and that's awesome!  If I had to pick one person though, who has certainly been an inspiration to me, it would be Ed Clucas.  He and his wife Barb were there when I ran my first marathon in 2002, and he was great.  He's always so encouraging; helping me get better and faster  but most importantly he makes me laugh!!

To push myself on a run I concentrate on one runner ahead of me and think

"I can pass them, I know I can".  If he or she passes me again, it only motivates me to push myself harder.  Sometimes I have to admit, I can start to get mad and then they better watch out, cuz here I come!!

My greatest running accomplishment is without a doubt the Chicago Marathon, 2002.  Since it was my first marathon, it was an experience I will never forget.  For the first time, I understood what the "runners high" is.  I was so overwhelmed that I could actually run that far and finish with a pretty respectable time.  I remember crying when I turned the corner and heard all the people cheering!  What a great day!

My next goal is to qualify for Boston!!!!  I'm sure you'll hear me talking about it!  Just let me know if I start to drive you crazy!

My advice to other runners is...to number one have fun! Then, I would encourage runners to join a running group.  I have met so many wonderful friends through running.  There's truly a special bond that happens when you run together. 

I plan to run until someone says I can't.  Then I'll really have to think about that!!!!!