Category: Fun and Nonsense

Friday Faves

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It’s Friday! Which can only mean one thing, it’s time for the December edition of my Friday Faves! Just like last month, I have a variety of favorite things, not just focused on running. Have a look to see what I’m currently digging, and maybe they’ll become a favorite of yours as well!

Out of Milk App–  Melissa wrote about some apps that were must haves on her phone a couple weeks ago. After checking out her post, I immediately downloaded this app. It’s the perfect way to keep track of all your groceries. My favorite thing about this app, you can share it between people, so Darren and I can both add things to the list. You can also scan the barcode of an item you need to add, perfect for when you run out of something and need to replace it. Seriously, download this app, it will make your grocery shopping easier than ever!

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Days of Gold by Jake Owen- I absolutely love this album. I grew up on country, then got out of it for a while, and then got back into it. When I got back into it, Jake Owen was one of my top artists on my iPod. He just released Days of Gold this month and it is by far my favorite album of his yet. Top picks on this album: Days of Gold, Beachin’, Tall Glass of Something

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Breaking Bad – Ok, so we’re late to the party on this one, but we’ve somehow become addicted. We started Breaking Bad on Netflix about two weeks ago, thinking of trying a few episodes and finishing the rest over Christmas. Not possible! It’s such an odd show, and definitely something I didn’t think I’d like, but we just can’t get enough. We’re almost done with season 3 and will definitely finish the series up by the new year.

6pm.com – I’ve used this site over the past couple of years and it’s great for getting discounted clothes/shoes/accessories, but more specifically running clothes. They tend to carry items that are a little older or have been discontinued, and you can usually get at least 40% off most items. They don’t have all the brands I like, but it’s great site to stock up on my Asics tights and jackets.

Starbucks Gingerbread Latte- Ok, another thing that I’m a little late on, but this year I discovered the Gingerbread Latte from Starbucks. In years past I’ve usually been chugging the Campfire Mocha from Caribou all winter long, but since they’re no longer in Ohio, I had to find a new winter drink. This has definitely become my new go to winter coffee and I simply can’t get enough.

So there are my favorite things for December. A little bit of everything, but all great things. Go ahead and try one or all of them, you won’t be disappointed!

What are you currently digging? 

A Runner’s Christmas List

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It’s time for yet again, another holiday gift list for runners. Each year these are splattered all over the internet, and I usually have the same things on my list as well. But this year I wanted to mix it up and be more creative. So if you know a runner these are some great things to put under the tree or in their stockings. And if you’re the runner, add these to your list pronto!

Race entry-What’s the perfect way to show your runner that you support them? Pay for their registration into a race. While some races can be quite expensive, your gift can be as simple as a local 5k. Prices range from $15-150+ depending on how big the race or the distance.
Nuun- With all of the holiday cheer you’ll be consuming over the holidays, your runner will need to make sure they stay hydrated. With three different formulas and over 20 flavors, Nuun is the perfect way to keep away the holiday hangover. Right now when you spend over $30, you get a free Nuun trucker hat with your purchase.

Gift cards– Gift cards are always the easy way out, but sometimes they’re the best option. If you have a picky runner on your hands or maybe a runner who can’t decide on something, gift cards are the way to go. You can pick some up at your local running shop, your runner’s favorite online store, or the big box sports stores.
Race Bib Coasters- Does your runner have a special race that they want to remember forever? Ellie has the perfect solution for you. Custom coasters with you or your runner’s race bib. I have a pair of my own and love them! These are the perfect gift to display your accomplishments, you can use them all year long and they never wear out!
Winter safety kit– Winter can be a dangerous time for runners. With snow, cold and lack of daylight, it’s best to keep your runner safe as possible. Need a few ideas for a winter safety kit? Try: pepper spray/mace, Road ID, a reflective vest, head lamp, YakTrax and gloves.
Bib/Medal  holder– If you weren’t allowed to hang your medals on your Christmas tree, you may still need a place to display them. Running on the Wall has medal hangers, bib hangers and more. I received this one a few years ago, but it’s getting pretty full. Looks like I may need to add it to my list as well.
Runner’s World Calender- Want to know how you can keep your runner motivated through the day? Buy them the Runner’s World Calendar. I have both the wall calendar and daily boxed calendar in my office at work and love them. It’s a nice reminder to have all day when you’re ready to relax once you get home from work.

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So there’s my take on some creative gifts for the runner in your life. I have no doubt that if you pick any of these gifts, your runner will appreciate them!

Castle Noel, A Christmas Museum

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It’s finally December, which can only mean one thing…Christmas is coming! If you didn’t know, Christmas happens to be my favorite holiday, so it was only fitting to start the month off on the right foot by visiting the new Christmas exhibit in town.

Over the past year, one of the shops and an old church downtown have been renovated into Castle Noel, a year round, indoor Christmas experience. It was on my list of things to visit this holiday season, so I gladly accepted the opportunity to go when Darren’s parents offered to take us. We got there around noon on Sunday and were greeted with a short line outside. In total I think we spent about 45 minutes in line, but to me it was worth it. Castle Noel has only been open since November 22nd, so long lines are to be expected, especially now that we’re in the holiday season.

Instead of going into detail about each exhibit, check out some of these pictures I took.

Walls of holiday characters

Walls of holiday characters

Hallway filled with "I Had That" toys from all generations

Hallway filled with “I Had That” toys from all generations

The original Elf costume worn by Will Ferrel

The original Elf costume worn by Will Ferrell

Old window displays from Saks Fifth Avenue

Old window displays from Saks Fifth Avenue

Cindy Lou Who's bedroom set from The Grinch

Cindy Lou Who’s bedroom set from The Grinch

The Grinch and Max the dog

The Grinch and Max the dog

The Grinch's sleigh, one of three they used for the movie

The Grinch’s sleigh, one of three they used for the movie

The slide from A Christmas Story

The slide from A Christmas Story

The original elves from A Christmas Story pushed everyone down the slide

The original elves from A Christmas Story pushed everyone down the slide

 

Overall I really enjoyed Castle Noel. From what I saw it was mostly geared toward an older audience until the last room which had the Grinch movie sets and Santa. However, there were a few rooms that smaller children would enjoy, including a separate Santa room that wasn’t set up yet.

Even though we had a 45 minute wait to get started, the line inside went smoothly, with tours starting every 15 minutes. Tickets, however were a little pricy at $16 each, but if you order online, you can save a dollar by using the code “Medinasquare”

I think Castle Noel is a great new attraction to add to the Cleveland area and will be a big hit during the holiday season. I definitely recommend checking it out and seeing all types of Christmas memorabilia from all generations. If anything, you’ve got to go to ask Santa for your official Red Ryder, carbine action, two-hundred shot range model air rifle

Friday Faves

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I’ve decided to jump on the bandwagon and get on board with sharing my Friday Faves. I won’t do this every week, but about once a month I’ll share what I’m currently digging, and hope that maybe you’ll eventually like it too. They’re not all running related, and the amount may vary. They’re my current favorites, so that’s ok!

Buckeye Woods – My absolute favorite place to run in Medina is Buckeye Woods. This park has it all, and has spectacular views no matter what time of day or year you go. With asphalt, crushed limestone and dirt paths, they have enough trails to keep you entertained for miles. Buckeye Woods also connects to the Chippewa Inlet, which takes you directly to Chippewa Lake, the former home of the Chippewa Lake Amusement Park. I could go on and on about how much I love this place, but instead I’ll share a few pictures I’ve taken.

Entrance to the woods

Entrance to the woods

Absolute peace

Absolute peace

Chippewa Inlet

Chippewa Inlet

Quaker Steak & Lube’s Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese – Like most people, I’ve only known Quaker Steak for their wings. In high school, we’d go there at least once a week after practice and stuff our face with as many wings as we could. It wasn’t until a few weeks ago that I discovered their menu had more, specifically Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese. Being a big consumer in both pasta and cheese, I accepted the challenge of making sure this was to my expectations. It was, and now I’m on the search for a copy cat recipe. So the next time you’re there, give it a try, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

“Crunchy chicken tenders coated with Arizona Ranch® over creamy Radiatore pasta tossed in Guinness Beer cheese sauce! Topped with Provolone, Bleu cheese crumbles, fresh celery and tomato! Served with grilled garlic bread” – Quaker Steak & Lube Menu Description (yum!)

Oiselle Long Sleeves – Now that the cold weather is officially here, my running clothes have transitioned from tank tops to long sleeves. Although it’s not quite cold enough to bundle in 10 layers yet, I’ve found two shirts that are perfect for 50 degree weather and 30 degree weather. Both by Oiselle, these two tops are going to be a staple in my winter wardrobe, and possibly grow in the amount of colors I’ll own by spring.

  • Lux Layer – I have this in grey and cannot believe how comfortable it is. The texture is like non other and naturally includes thumb holes. Windy, chilly day? This is the shirt for you and will keep you toasty and warm.
  • Flyte LS – I got this in coral (the color that works for about 99% of people) and love it. It’s definitely a shirt to wear with layers or days above 40, but the wicking material helps to prevent freezing in your own sweat. My favorite part is the word “fly” on the back, perfect motivation for those chilly runs.

The BlackList – We added this to the list of shows to check out this year, and it instantly became a favorite. James Spader is perfect in this role and Megan Boone is quickly becoming a favorite. It you haven’t seen this show, I definitely recommend it.

So that’s what I’m digging this month, and clearly it’s a little bit of everything. Hope you give one of these a shot, I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

What are you currently digging? Are any of these on your favorites list?

Pinteresting: An attempt to be Creative

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Once in a while, I take time from running and working to focus on a more creative side of myself. I have a continuous on and off again relationship with scrap booking, which I’m hoping will be back on again this winter. But over the past couple months, my friend Marissa and I have fallen into the black hole of attempting Pinterest crafts. Some have been easy and some have been hard, but we’ve tried to keep them as simple as possible. So I’d like to share a few that we’ve done and give you my advice if you try any of these. With the new house, I’m trying to find more and more ways to make it feel like home, so this very well could be a reoccurring post.

1. Painted vases

Inspiration:

Desperate Craftwives: Acrylic Painted Vases

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Results:

My attempt

My attempt

My Thoughts: We thought this would be a lot easier than it looked. It turned into a long drawn out project due to waiting on paint to dry. All in all, I was happy with how they turned out and hope to make a few other sets someday.

What you’ll need:

  • Vases
  • Acrylic Paint
  • Paint Brushes

We painted the inside of the vases with at least 3-4 coats of paint and had to wait a long time in between each coat. If you rushed too quickly, the paint could still be wet and come off. Also, the more intricate the vase, the more difficult it will be to cover the glass entirely.

My advice, use simple vases and spread this project out over a couple of days to make sure that the paint is completely dry.

2. Painted Canvas

Inspiration:

DIY Canvas Painting

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Results:

My attempt

My attempt

My Thoughts: This is probably my favorite project so far. I used multiple colors to give it more depth and I was surprised with how well it turned out.

What you’ll need:

  • Canvas
  • Blue painters tape
  • Paint brushes
  • Acrylic Paint

I marked off spaces at random and tried not to put the same colors next to each other. For the most part, it turned out pretty good. We originally used masking tape to mark off our spaces, which can lead to some bleeding in the paint, but I definitely recommend using painters tape instead. This was perfect in our dining room at the apartment and really brought out the colors of the furniture. It’s a little too small for our new living room, but I can’t imagine getting rid of it.

3. Home made wreath

Inspiration:

perfect for winter

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Results:

My attempt

My attempt

My Thoughts: I wasn’t sure where to begin with this one, but once I got started, it was really easy. The hardest part was picking out yarn colors and accessories for the wreath.

What you’ll need:

  • Styrofoam wreath
  • Yarn
  • Hot glue gun & extra glue
  • Seasonal accessories

Tie one end of the yarn around the wreath and wrap until you get all the way around. Then tie the other end and hide it on the back side of the wreath. Glue any accessories you want to add and make sure they line up for when you hang the wreath.

I really enjoyed working on this and plan to do a few more for other seasons and holidays.

So there you  have it, some crafts I’ve been attempting all thanks to Pinterest. And now if you ever want to make these you’ll know what to look out for and tips on making it right!

Have you ever done a Pinterest project? Ever tried any of these? What projects would you suggest?

September Rewind

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Hello October! We’re in full force autumn and I couldn’t be happier! Fall is probably my favorite season, I love seeing the leaves change colors, the weather cools off for sweaters and every day smells like cross country. We had a really busy September and October doesn’t look like it’s going to slow down any time soon. Let’s take a look back at the past month.

Miles run: 19

Races run: 0

Miles biked: 0

Books read: Still reading Once A Runner…

Places traveled: Toronto, Canada

September was a pivotal month for running. As you may know, I was supposed to run the Akron Marathon. But after an injury that took me out for a few weeks, I just couldn’t get back my endurance or a feeling that I’d be 100 percent pain free on race day, so I dropped. The final decision came after I spent a few days in Canada working a trade show. After three straight days on my feet, my arch was begging me not to run. I couldn’t avoid the work trip, so I had no other choice but to play it safe.

I didn’t let it get me down too much, because I had a lot going on last month, including planning and putting on a surprise birthday party for my dad. My dad turned 60 this year, and what better way to celebrate than throwing a party. Everything worked out well and I could tell that he was definitely surprised. It took a lot of work and planning, but it was completely worth it.

We’ve had a few other things going on, but more about that will come up later in October. Right now I’m still figuring out what I’m going to do with my running for the rest of the year. Hopefully I’ll be back out there to run some races soon!

 

How was your September? Are you excited for fall?

 

Happy 60th Birthday Daddy!

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Today happens to be my dad’s 60th birthday! It’s hard to believe because for the most part he still acts like he’s 25 45. This is such a milestone birthday, I had to include a special post. Also, I’m currently in Canada, so I can’t actually wish him a happy birthday today, hopefully this will do.

I don’t know about you guys, but I have the best dad ever, which is why on Saturday, we threw him a surprise party. My dad has done so much for me, and has always been there to teach me right from wrong, I couldn’t let this birthday go by without making it special.

For the past few months I had been planning and organizing the perfect part. I needed a great location and his good friends and family to meet up all on the same day. Luckily, this past Saturday worked for almost everyone and the perfect restaurant was located in downtown Medina. I cleverly asked my parents to come to town this weekend to go out for lunch since I would be traveling on my dad’s actual birthday. I may have even bribed him to visit just to see the new kitten.

Handmade Invite

Handmade Invite

My dad has a few scooters that he rides so I knew it was the perfect theme, plus the tag line “Scootin’ into 60!” was amazing. I also had balloons printed at work with the matching image.

I had guests arrive at the restaurant around 1:00 to give us about a half hour until we arrived. My parents met at our place and then we made our way down town. I was so nervous that he would figure out what I was planning, but the look on his face when he opened the door told it all. He was so surprised and got to visit with friends and family from all stages of line. I’d say it was the perfect surprise!

Surprise!!

Surprise!!

Friends & Family

Friends & Family

Homemade cake

Homemade cake

The birthday boy!

The birthday boy!

 

Happy birthday dad!!

August Rewind

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August was a quick month, and I’m excited to say that I’m ready for fall. I’m ready for the cooler temperatures, the leaves changing and warm cups of coffee no matter what time of day. August definitely wasn’t perfect, but it wasn’t boring either. Let’s take a look back….

Miles run: 64

Races run: 1, Buehler’s Heart & Sole Half Marathon

Miles biked: 0

Books read: Once a Runner…made it to the 100’s!

Places traveled: 0

We might as well start with the elephant in the room. Those miles are no where near the 100 I had hoped for. I made it half way through the month and ended up with some foot pain. While this is still a mystery of how it happened over night, it’s something that is still bothering me. I cut back my miles drastically after running a half marathon on an injured foot. Outside of the pain, the race was great, but probably not the smartest thing I’ve done. I took a complete week off and attempted to get back into things. The pain isn’t gone, my endurance is dwindling, and well, this marathon I’m supposed to run is still a giant question. Along with some big races I had hoped to run afterward… (don’t bother checking the 2013 race schedule, they’re not up there)

As for my bike. It’s found a great home in the garage, and it has a close companion of my mountain bike that joined it this summer. Yoga also joined this group, I haven’t been to class in two months. Summer was busy and life happens. I’m hoping that I can get back into my yoga, because I actually miss it. And, well. I’ll still think about that bike.

And while we’re on the topic of the not so fun things of August, we might as well throw in the final closing of my favorite coffee shop. That’s right, Caribou Coffee is closing it’s doors on the Eastern side of the US. I knew this was coming for a while, but my very last store was shut down on September 1st. It may seem silly to be upset about a coffee shop closing, but I spent a lot of time there. From Friday nights in high school, to visits with friends while we were home from college, to studying for the GMAT and writing papers for my MBA. From friendships and first dates, to my own time to get away, Caribou held a big spot in my heart. I’m slowly opening up to Starbucks and Peet’s, but no one will ever make a Campfire Mocha like Caribou.

Until next time...

Until next time…

But enough of the Debbie downer things that occurred. I’m excited to share that there were good things that happened in August, like one of my closest friends getting married. My dear friend Elayna married her fiance after 9.5 years of dating. That’s a long time, you guys! It was a  beautiful day filled with so much love, and I couldn’t be more excited for them.

With the beautiful bride

With the beautiful bride

I have no idea what September will bring or what I’ll be able to run. I wish I was more excited that it’s marathon month, but time will show what’s in store, and hopefully I’ll be able to finish another 26.2 miles.

 

How was your August? Anything excited happen?

July Rewind

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Wow, what a month. Marathon training ramped up quite a bit and took up most of my time. From what was supposed to be a relaxing month, turned into a busy, non stop month. With one more month of summer left, fall will be here in the blink of an eye! Let’s take a look at the numbers for July.

Miles run: 84

Races run: 1-Twin Sizzler 5k (Wellington Cheese Fest was canceled)

Miles biked: 0

Books read: Still stuck on chapter 4 of Once a Runner

Places traveled: 0

Unnecessary purchases cut down: Probably not

New recipes: Attempted spaghetti squash

I definitely have to say that this month I’m so proud of my running. In June I ran 53 miles, and this month I ran 84. Not only did I add 31 miles to this month, but July was my highest month of mileage ever! The last time I was this close was last September with 83 miles and before that was last July with 79 miles. I can’t even believe I was able to put that many miles on my legs. Let’s also mark this down as the longest I’ve been able to stay injury free. Maybe 2013 will be my year after all.

Unfortunately there was only one race for this month. I ran the Twin Sizzler 5k on the 4th of July and was supposed to run a 10k in the middle of the month. Due to weather, the Cheese Fest 10k was canceled with no sign of a make up date. I was really bummed, but maybe someday I’ll get to run an actual road 10k. If not, it’s fine by me. I also didn’t get any biking in, major fail on this cross training activity. My poor bikes probably think they’re stuck in the garage forever.

I did attempt to cook this month with something new and healthy. And by attempt, I mean it didn’t go so well. So my goal in August is to actually make an edible meal with spaghetti squash. Wish me luck.

But the most exciting thing that happened in July is that we have a new addition to our household!

The newest little bundle of fur!

The newest little bundle of fur!

We adopted this three month old kitten from the local shelter, and thankfully he fits right in. He’s curious, playful and always hungry. Most importantly, he’s gets along great with his older brother.

New best friends

New best friends

 

What did you do exciting in July? Any good recipes for spaghetti squash?

May Rewind

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I’m convinced that May went by quicker than April, which was pretty hard to  beat. May seemed to be more stressful than the other months this year, and I felt like I was always on the go. The good thing about May being over is that summer is almost here!

Let’s take a look at the numbers for this past month.

Miles run: 46

Races run: 2 (Flying Pig Half Marathon & Medina Half Marathon)

Books read: Started Once A Runner

Places traveled: 2, Cincy/Kentucky & Put-In-Bay, but no crazy trips

Unnecessary purchases cut down: Nope

New recipes: Tried a new pasta, Ohio City Pasta is superb to cook with

Miles were down in May, but this was a result of my big failure race at Flying Pig. After the hills I swore off running for a few days, but was back at it to get redemption at the Medina Half Marathon. And redemption I got! I shaved 24 minutes off my time from Flying Pig and finally got out of my half marathon timing funk. Just in time too, marathon training starts next Monday!

I didn’t do much traveling, which is why I’m still not getting anywhere with reading books for fun. I definitely want to make this a priority this month. But I am looking forward to reading Once a Runner, I’m hoping it will help keep up motivation with training.

One of my favorite things this month was the Medina Farmers Market. Every saturday from 9-1, Memorial Day until Labor Day, the farmers market is out on the square. It’s such a great event and really allows you to buy local. I picked up some Ohio City Pasta and have enjoyed cooking with it. I’ll be shopping at the market a lot this summer.

June will be busy, so I imagine it will go by even quicker, but I’m excited for summer to finally be here!

 

Did you do anything exciting in May? What are you plans for June?