Category: Fun and Nonsense

April Rewind

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April, my favorite month has come and gone. But it can only mean that more exciting things are on the way, such as more races, warm weather and tons of functions with friends and family. We’re now in the transition to summer, a season we never thought we’d see. April for the most part was a good month, let’s take a look at the numbers.

Miles run: 55

Races run: 4 (Miles for Madison 5k, Tree Trotter Half Marathon, Yeti Set Go! Trail 10k, Love A Stray 5k)

Miles biked: 14

Books read: 1 (Best of Me)

Places traveled: 1 (Colorado!)

Unnecessary purchases cut down: Ehhh…

New recipes: 0

Check out the mileage. I more than doubled what I ran in March! It may have taken me a while, but I’m finally getting back into the swing of things. I just needed some time away from running so I could fall back in love with it. This shows by the amount of races I did, two 5k’s for great causes, a half marathon, and my first trail/night 10k. I even got on the bike a few times, including a ride downtown, something I plan on doing a lot this summer.

April also brought our vacation to Colorado! We explored new cities and caught up with friends, it was the perfect birthday trip, even if it was a week early. I was even able to finally finish my book that I started on my last trip in February.

I didn’t learn to cook anything new, but I did eat at a lot of new restaurants, so that counts, right? I also did a semi decent job at cutting back on spending, with so many weddings, bridal showers and bachelorette parties filling up my calendar, it’s hard not to cut back. Really, a majority of my spending was on races, you guys, running is expensive.

April went by quick, too quick, but I’m excited that summer is just around the corner. I’m hoping May brings more miles, more races and more patio reading!

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

Colorado Take Three

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Two weekends ago, Darren and I took our spring vacation. After such a long winter we both needed to get away. It’s no surprise that we decided on Colorado and with plane tickets under $230 a few months back, it was easy to twist his arm. Since we’ve been to Colorado not once, but twice, we wanted to make sure we got a chance to see what we’ve missed. I also had a list of things I was hoping to check out, and well, I wasn’t disappointed.

We flew in on Friday and did the whole downtown Denver thing. We checked out the Rialto Cafe, Uptown Tavern and the Hornet Restaurant all while catching up with D’s friend from college. Nothing too exciting, but we were exhausted. I’m pretty sure I was asleep during dinner.

16th Street Mall

16th Street Mall

Saturday we got up early and headed up to Boulder. It was a beautiful day, so we were able to enjoy the local Farmer’s Market, hiking up the Flatirons, and do a little shopping. The Flatirons were absolutely amazing. The path up the mountain was perfect for a little morning hike. And while we weren’t fully prepared, I could see us doing a lot more hiking up there.

So, so neat

So, so neat

My hill workout for the day

My hill workout for the day

Looking down on Boulder

Looking down on Boulder

Once we finished up around Boulder, we headed south to Golden. I really didn’t know much about it, other than the cool sign in town and it’s the home of Coors beer. But I had to get a picture of the sign, it was on my Colorado Bucket List.

Welcome y'all

Welcome y’all

Shortly after our drive through we headed towards Red Rocks and made a quick visit to see one of our favorite places.

So much beauty in Colorado!

So much beauty in Colorado!

Denver is hidden behind Darren's shoulder, you almost miss it

Denver is hidden behind Darren’s shoulder, you almost miss it

With all of our exploring we were starving and headed back to Denver. We checked out TAG Restaurant, Osteria Marco and caught a live band at Appaloosa Grill.

Sunday morning I was able to sneak out for a few miles and run with Courtney through Washington Park. It was my first time there and I loved it, seriously so beautiful and full of runners all shapes and size. Reason number 5,937 to move to Colorado. We caught up, got 5 miles in and even saw an eagle in the middle of the park, how cool.

Next up on the tour of Colorado was a trip to Colorado Springs. I had heard that the Garden of the Gods was something to check out, but I had no idea how amazing it would be. The pictures I took can’t even describe how breath taking it was. If you’re ever in Colorado and have a few hours to explore, check this out.

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Simply amazing

Natural beauty

Natural beauty

Pikes Peak in the distance

Pikes Peak in the distance

If checking out these views doesn’t relax you, then I don’t know what will. While we were in Colorado Springs we checked out a local brewery, Trinity Brewing Company. The strangest thing was that there were no TV’s but the place was packed. It’s great to see that people still enjoy each others company and don’t need to be glued to technology.

We finished up the weekend back in Denver, checking out REI and of course D Bar Desserts. For the first time, I left the entire vacation up to spur of the moment decisions. I usually need to plan everything, but I’m glad I didn’t this time. The only bad thing was that I didn’t want to leave. Every time we go out to Colorado, I want to move there more and more. Hopefully we’ll be out there in the next two years.

Have you ever checked out any of these Colorado hot spots? Where else in Colorado do you recommend to visit?

 

February Rewind

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For February being a short month, it sure seemed that I was always on the go, making it feel almost as long as January. I finished up  my work trips in February and spent a good amount of time catching up with friends, work and life. February also meant that I would begin training for my spring half, and hopefully get back into some sort of workout routine. Unfortunately all of the traveling caught up to me and I ended up with a bad cold that had me living on NyQuil/Dayquil for a week.

Miles run: 25

Races run: 1 (Frosty 5k)

Miles biked: 16

Books read: 1.5 (50 Shades of Grey-finished, Best of Me-started)

Places traveled: 1 (Dallas)

Unnecessary purchases cut down: Major yes

New recipes: 1 (Enchiladas)

Looking at this past month compared to January, I definitely stepped up my game in running. I started my new training plan, which includes running, cycling, abs and lifting. I’m feeling good again, and know that my body will thank me for cross training. I also ran my first Medina race, where I placed 2nd in my age group! I even signed up for a Yoga-Lates class that I will be starting in March. Time to stay injury free!

Because I didn’t do much traveling, my reading took a drop. I finished 50 Shades of Grey, and hated it. I’ve started my next book, but I just haven’t had time to sit down and read. I need to make it a habit to read a little bit before bed each night. Something I did do this month was cook a new meal. I’m not the biggest fan of cooking, but I followed the directions created my own recipe and ended up with some great Enchiladas. I’m hoping that I can create one new meal a month to further expand my predictable diet. Does reading a cookbook count for my 10 books this year?

My biggest accomplishment this month was cutting back on unnecessary purchases, specifically clothing. I spend way to much on things I don’t need. Throughout the entire month of February, I only spent $19.99 on clothes, for one pair of shorts. I honestly can’t remember the last time I spent that little on clothes for an entire month. With some big purchases on the way, it will be nice to save up the money now instead of looking for it later.

I’m looking forward to the next couple months, they’ll be busy, but great things are happening!

How was your February? Did you get a lot accomplished in the short month?

January Rewind

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January has come and gone, and much quicker than I would have liked. The first two  months of the year are my busiest with work so it’s only normal that my monthly review is a few days late. For 2013 I wanted to try something new, and by doing a monthly recap I can check in on my goals and see just how much work I’ve done or need to do. Let’s check out January…

 

Miles run: 20

Races run: 1 (3M Half Marathon)

Books read: 2.5 (The Next Best Thing, The Last Song, 50 Shades of Grey-partially complete)

Places traveled: 3 (Austin, TX, Las Vegas, NV, and Toronto, Canada)

Sickness: 2 (Flu and sinus/head cold)

Languages learned: 0

Unnecessary purchases cut down: Yes

New recipes: 0

 

A whole bunch of numbers, and what does it really mean? I didn’t run much, but I needed that break. I was able to run another half marathon and had one of the best race experiences yet. I traveled a bunch for work, which meant I was able to get a ton of reading done on the planes. My take so far on 50 Shades is it’s poorly written, and I’m definitely not hooked on it like many other women.

Traveling a lot meant I easily caught the flu bug followed by another week of a head cold. Insert lack of running and excess of more reading. Needless to say that feeling sick didn’t give me the urge to try any new recipes in the kitchen.

Still haven’t picked up any German, but thinking of trying Rosetta Stone to see if it would be beneficial or not. And as for unneccsary purchases, I traveled more than I was able to shop. And the only time I did spend some money was towards my car. Not so unnecessary.

February brings less traveling, and hopefully some more running. I’m also looking into some lifestyle changes with my eating habits and my training. More to come on that.

 

How was your January?

A Weekend in Austin

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Two weeks ago, I spent a short weekend in Austin. The plan was to meet up with fellow bloggers/runners from across the states and run the 3M Half Marathon. I flew in Friday morning, and by the time I made it to the hotel, I noticed an unwelcome guest had invited themselves on to the trip…the flu. Because my hotel mates weren’t arriving until later I spent the day curled up in bed trying to make myself better for the rest of the weekend. First day of exploring the city turned into a major fail.

Once Courtney and Luke arrived, we went out for a bite to eat, hoping that food would make me feel better. We checked out Dog and Duck Pub, and had I felt better I probably would have enjoyed it a lot more.

Saturday I still wasn’t feeling my best so I took the morning easy. Once I was good on my feet we decided we’d try to get as much in as we could. First stop was the expo. It wasn’t big, but it was perfect on my wallet. Dollars spent=$0.

Expo time

Expo time

Afterward we headed down to the lake. We hung out at the dog park that didn’t require leashes…perfect puppy borrowing opportunity. Not only did I see some adorable pooches, but I scored some pretty good pictures of the city.

Downtown Austin

Downtown Austin

After driving around and taking in the views of the city, we stopped at a running store and then headed out to a late lunch. We stopped at Abel’s on the Lake and met up with Courtney’s sister and boyfriend who both live in Austin. I highly recommend eating here. Everything on the menu looks great. And yes, it over looks the lake.

Sisters and me

Sisters and me

Afterward we checked out more of Austin and met up with Courtney’s dad who was in town for the race. Seriously such a nice family. By this time it was approaching dinner, which meant it was time for our pre-race dinner! We went to Melissa‘s house and met her boyfriend Brad and Paula, who were also running 3M the next day. It was a great dinner filled with talk of running, travel, and friends.

3M Ladies

3M Ladies

Following dinner we headed back to the hotel and as soon as we were asleep, race day appeared. Post race activities included spending lunch at Abel’s on the Lake, again. (Yes, it really is that good) We were joined by Sam and Jared, who were awesome race spectators.

Austin crew

Austin crew

The afternoon concluded with a very long and delayed flight back to Ohio, but I left Austin with great memories. It was a weekend full of a beautiful city, a wonderful race and awesome friends. I’m definitely looking forward to my next trip to Austin.

Also, check out the bag we got from 3M, products you’ll actually use!

3M Swag Bag

3M Swag Bag

A Look Into 2013

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2012 was absolutely fabulous, but that doesn’t mean that 2013 can’t be any better. After the year of races, I’m taking a step back and slowing things down. I ended 2012 with a bit of a burn out, but I’m hoping I can fall back in love with running and enjoy it more than ever. I also want to focus on a few things I’ve been neglecting over the past few years including cooking and eating healthy.

2013 Goals

Running:

  • Run a sub 2:00 half marathon
  • Run 800 miles
  • PR in the 5k
  • Run two half marathons in two new states
  • Volunteer at races

Personal

  • Travel
  • Learn German
  • Learn to cook and eat healthier
  • Stress less
  • Read more, at least 10 books
  • Cut out unnecessary purchases

I actually really enjoyed 2012, so I’m nervous that 2013 won’t be as good. But each day and year is what you make of it, so here’s to an even better 2013! Happy New Year!

 

 

2012 In Review

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It’s the last day of 2012, so it’s time to look back and reflect all that has happened in the last 12 months. Here’s a look at 2012:

  • I traveled for work, a lot. I was able to visit Vegas, Toronto x 2, Dallas, Wisconsin, and New Orleans
  • I got a promotion!
  • I ran my first out of state half marathon even after getting altitude sickness
  • I ran a birthday race & received the best gift, a PR!
  • I ran some other PR’s…Adult 5k, 5 Mile, Half Marathon, & Marathon!
  • I ran for Diabetes
  • I moved to the country
  • I lost a family pet
  • I ran 5 half marathons, 9 total to date!
  • I ran a marathon, 26.2!
  • I vacationed in Colorado, and confirmed my love for the state
  • I became a Sweat Pink Ambassador
  • I ran 609 miles
  • We joined a gym, time to cross train and lift some weights

It was a wonderful year, so many memories, and so many running accomplishments. I had goals and plans set at the beginning of the year. I was able to accomplish some, but not all. That’s what 2013 is for, right?

2012 Goals

  • Run a PR for the half marathon-Done, three times!
  • Run a full marathon (I’m taking the plunge!!)-Done, can’t wait for my next!
  • Run four half marathons in four new states-Nope, only one
  • Run seven half marathons-Nope, only five
  • Travel!-Yes! Lots of traveling!
  • Volunteer at races-Nope, really need to do this one
  • Try a duathlon-Nope
  • Raise and donate money for the American Diabetes Association-Yes, Cleveland Half was all about running for Diabetes
  • Learn German-Nope, still only a few words
  • Learn to cook…no more pasta diet-Work in progress…

What did you do in 2012? Favorite memories?

Rocky Mountain Love

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Over the weekend I finally took my vacation for the year. It couldn’t have come at a better time, with stress completely smothering me. The plan was spend Thursday to Monday out in Colorado, split up the time between Vail, Steamboat Springs and Denver. Due to a snow storm that came through and our lack of experience driving snow covered mountain roads, we had to unfortunately cut out Steamboat and head back to Denver. It was a wonderful trip filled with beautiful views, relaxation and enough food and drinks to keep us happy until Thanksgiving. My personal favorite day was Friday, which was filled with running in the mountains, shopping, and a spa day. Who wouldn’t enjoy that.

Rather than dive into all the details, I’ll share some of my favorite pictures from the trip. The best part, I didn’t get altitude sickness this time! Win for me. We did however travel to Breckenridge, which is at 9,600 feet. I felt a little lightheaded, but I luckily beat the altitude this time around. I’m still in love with Denver, and cannot wait until I can call it home…one day.

Perfection is just over those mountains

Vail Village

Beautiful snowy views

Oh, just some snowy roads

Breckenridge in all it’s beauty

Do we look like Coloradans?

The most beautiful view in Denver

Someday, home sweet home

Have you ever been to Colorado or been in the Rocky Mountains? Did you take a vacation this year?

Marathon Thoughts

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With less than a month left to go before the big day. I’ve really started to focus in on the fact that I am indeed going to run a marathon. It still seems surreal. Sometimes I can’t believe I’m running that far, and other times I feel like it’s just a half. Sometimes it hits me at the most inopportune moments, like when I’m driving. Most times it ends up  in a small panic attack, I feel sick to my stomach and wonder what I got myself into. Luckily, I’ve been able to  block everything out, all thoughts, stresses, concerns are out the door while running. It’s the time in between runs that gets me thinking….

  • What’s the weather going to be like on race day?
  • What should I wear? Should I get a new outfit? Yes!
  • Should I get a massage the day after the race or wait until that weekend?
  • Am I going to be hungry during the race? Should I bring Clif bars with me?
  • What if my iPod doesn’t work?
  • What if my Garmin stops?
  • How many friends can I get to join me in this race?
  • What happens if it starts to storm?
  • Am I really running 26.2 miles?
  • How many hills will I have to suffer through?
  • Why do I enjoy the long runs better than the short runs now?
  • What kind of time should I try for? Can I do it in under 5:00? Under 4:30?
  • What if I enjoy it too much? What if I become addicted?
  • How many times will I need to refill  my hand held?
  • What flavor Sport beans should I bring?
  • What should I get myself for a finishers gift?
  • Should I take a picture while running through The Shoe?
  • How did I become crazy enough to run a marathon?

What do you thinking about while running? Do you block out all thoughts when running?

Beauty and Inspiration

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Last week I was nominated for the Very Inspiring Blogger Award from Courtney. I was pretty pumped and surprised that I received this. Even though I’ve been blogging for two years, I felt that I haven’t been strong enough in the blog world until recently. I never considered my blog inspiring, but I guess each post can be inspiring to someone! I felt honored because this girl is a pretty inspiring blogger and person herself. She moved from Texas to Colorado, and has been completely dominating the run scene. She’s currently training for her third marathon, CIM, and has only been running for about two years. How awesome is that.

Then I was nominated for the Beautiful Blogger Award by Melissa. Melissa’s  blog is one of my most recent ones that I’ve started to read, but I’m finding out that she is pretty awesome. She’s a Jersey girl gone Texan and loves wine and running. She  is also currently getting ready for a marathon, the Philadelphia Marathon in November!


Here are the rules:

  • Display the award logo somewhere on your blog.
  • Link back to the blog of the person who nominated you.
  • State 7 things about yourself.
  • Nominate other bloggers for the award & provide links to their blogs.
  • Notify those bloggers that they have been nominated and of the award’s requirements.

7 Things About Me…..

  • I rarely drink pop, but when I do, I prefer two kinds: Dr.Pepper or Vanilla Coke. If either aren’t available, I’ll pass. I’d rather have a water or anything lemon lime flavored.
  • I can’t swim. I took swimming lessons when I was little, but it was always so cold, I never paid attention. Now I can’t do more than the doggy paddle, and I panic if I’m in water over my head. Not a good thing living along Lake Erie.
  • I’ve never broken a bone. I’ve strained things, had a herniated disc and turned my arch to absolute mush. Somehow I’ve dodged anything from breaking, but I’m still pretty injury prone.
  • I’ve worn the same running shoes my entire running career. As long as I can remember I’ve always run in Asics Gel 1xxx series shoes. I tried others, but nothing is more comfortable than wearing those old reliable laces.
  • I have big plans to travel someday. Not only do I want to travel the US, but I’m hoping to explore more places, and the first two on my list are Australia and Europe. Road trip anyone?
  • Since I graduated college I’ve moved three times, and will be adding a fourth to the list this month. I went from New Concord to Avon to Berea to Westlake. Next  up…Medina.
  • I used to race my car in Autocross. I started on my 16th birthday with my Miata, and then continued with my Mazda3. I even won my class one year, beating a few guys!

And here are the bloggers I think are both inspirational and beautiful….

  • Molly….One of the most inspirational people I know. She makes every run count and never takes it for granted. She certainly encouraged me to run Columbus this year.
  • Heather….Currently training for the Chicago Marathon and has already done two triathlons this summer! She runs hard, but throws in some fun on her blog too.
  • Kimi…One of the first blogs I started reading, this fabulous lady balances running, working, and raising an adorable son in the cutest town, Vermilion.
  • Elayna….A student at OSU currently doing a clinical for her doctorate of physical therapy. She loves all things Cleveland and Columbus. OH….
  • Ellie….Honestly a beautiful soul. She stands for what she believes in, but has fun along the way. She also creates amazing coasters on the side
  • Caitlin….This girl doesn’t let anything stand in her way. Her best posts: her travels to China. Amazing what you can learn from them.