Category: Random

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?

Run Rave, Summer Runs

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I’ve spent a lot of time running this summer, which means I’ve had a lot of time to figure out which clothes and fuels work best for those long, hot runs. Even though summer will be winding down soon, I wanted to share what I’ve grown to love.

Oiselle Roga Shorts

These shorts are absolutely perfect for those hot, sweaty long runs. The material doesn’t stick to you and keeps  you cool whether it’s sweat or rain. Plus, with a pocket in the front and in the back, you have plenty of room to hold everything you need. These are my new go to shorts.

Nike G87 tank

Source

I love this tank. It’s long enough that it doesn’t ride up during runs, but also light enough that it doesn’t weigh down when you start to sweat. Even better, no  matter how many times you wash it, it doesn’t shrink or feel too tight when you put it back on. Permanent tank tan from this top, most definitely.

Honey Stinger waffles

Colorado provides another product I’m in love with. Honey Stinger waffles are perfect to refuel with something light during the long run. The taste isn’t overpowering and they’re easy to chew mid run. They’re also organic, which is great for anyone who’s looking for healthier fueling foods. My favorite flavor? Lemon, of course!

ProCompression socks

I’ve been a fan of ProCompression socks for quite some time. I always use them for my longer distance races and recovery post long runs. I can’t imagine how my legs would feel if I didn’t wear these. I love that they have a variety of colors and have a sale each month. I may or  may not have at least 8 pairs. This month’s specialty sock is Royal Blue. Save 40% off at checkout with the code BLUE.

Road ID App

I’m so thankful for my Road ID, and hope I never have to depend on it. I wear it every single time I run outside. But what happens if the band breaks or it gets lost? Road ID has now created an app for your smart phone. You can have all of  your emergency information, and activate the function that allows your emergency contacts to track your run. Just another way of keeping you safe on the roads or trails.

So there you have it, just some of the latest products I’m liking. Some are perfect for summer, and some for all year long. Make sure to check them out, you never know, you may love them too!

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?

Country Runs-Summer

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It’s Friday and I’m on the edge of my seat excited for my long run. Surprised? I’ve been completely loving my long runs lately and one of the best parts of my long runs is the scenery. It’s been almost a year since we moved, and I have to admit that I love living 45 minutes south of Cleveland. I get to enjoy the busy feeling and the horrific traffic Monday through Friday, but the weekends bring me to a place of peace and soul searching.

Last fall I shared some of my favorite pictures I took along my runs and now that seasons have changed a few times, I found even more. Enjoy the views as you coast through Friday into the weekend!

Open path

photo

Peace

Lake Medina

IMG_4986

Two roads diverged in the woods, and I- I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

Also, if you’re looking for a vacation to Cali, or just happen to live out on the West coast, be sure to enter my friend Jen’s giveaway. You could win an entry to the San Fransisco Giant Half Marathon. I’d enter, but scheduling just doesn’t work out, fortunately this means you’ll have a chance to race in Cali!

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?

 

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?

Run Rave

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It’s been a while since I shared a few of my favorite things, so I think it’s time to bring it back. Lately I’ve been totally crushing on a few new items I’ve added to my running wardrobe. I didn’t really need to add anything, but once I did,  I can’t believe I went so long without them. My first purchase and probably most surprising to me, was a hat. Because I have a tiny head and face, I’ve never been able to find one that fits. I have the same problem with sunglasses, and pants..and well, pretty much everything. But thanks to a gift card at Vertical Runner, I was able to buy one without the full guilt on spending money on something I wouldn’t wear.

asics.com

asics.com

I love this hat, no only because it’s Asics, but it shield my eyes from the once in a while sunny run. I even had plans of wearing it during rain in Austin when there was a 40-60% chance of precipitation during the 3M Half Marathon. Unfortunately, I left it at home and was on a search to find a new hat. And a great hat was found!

newbalance.com

newbalance.com

My first New Balance purchase, I found this gem at a local Austin running shop. For just around $30, I found something that can cover my head, and light my way while running. Underneath the brim of the hat are two set of lights, perfect for those early morning or late night runs. I’ve used it a few times and felt so much safer when dodging potholes. Two great hats that I’ve added to my collection. Maybe I’ll become a hat fanatic now….

Hat models

Hat models

For the first time in at least 8 years, I wore something other than my Nike Tempo Shorts. After browsing online for a cute pair of shorts I discovered the Asics’s ARD shorts. The first time I tried them in Austin, I fell in love. The material is so light and breathable, I felt like I had nothing on. Luckily, I did. They also weren’t as obnoxiously bright like many of my other shorts. I’m pretty sure they also make me look fast.

Focus on the shorts, not the "Proof"

Shorts & Hat in action! (Also, great race picture!)

As soon as I returned from Austin, I was on the hunt for more. I came across my February find for clothing and picked out a new pair with just a touch of pink. They also have a nice little zip pocket on the back, perfect for Gu or an iPod. Hands down these are my new favorite shorts and I can’t wait to try them out in 90 degree weather to see how they hold up.

The perfect shorts

The perfect shorts

One of my absolute favorite additions is my new running shoe. Since I can remember I’ve been running with the Asics Gel 1000 series. They’ve always fit me well and provided enough stability and comfort I had no reason to try another shoe. Until back in October when I ventured into the Asics booth at the Columbus marathon and fell in love with my new running partner.

Hello beautiful GT-2000

Hello beautiful GT-2000

Light weight, foot fitting and comfort beyond belief. I had a hard time removing my feet from the shoe and couldn’t wait to try them out. Over the past couple of months I’ve had a chance to try them out and have run almost every single run in these shoes. For a price point of $120, they are worth every single penny. From running through snow, gravel, track and treadmill, they’ve held up under every condition. From 1 mile to 13.1 miles, I never regretted wearing them for any distance. And while I still have a shiny new pair of the Gel 1600 in my closet, I think it may be a while before I lace those up.

And now, something non clothing related, and probably what I’m most excited about….a half  marathon in Medina! I could not be happier that I will get to run a half marathon in my own backyard. I’ve already run about 75% of the course in the past 6 months, so I think I have a great feel for what to expect. I recently found out about this race, and while it is bound to be hilly, hot and possibly humid, there is nothing more exciting than running a race in its first year. But actually, there is. This year, the race is free and will be put on by a bunch of local clubs and businesses. So mark your calendars for May 25th and and get ready to run!

More info: https://www.facebook.com/medinahalf.marathon?sid=0.964994641811798

Course Map

Course Map

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 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!