mestrength review: what's in your water?

Disclaimer: I received MESTRENGTH to review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review, find, and write race reviews!

I'm a big fan of testing out different products to see what works best for me. Just because I found something I love/works, doesn't mean I won't try a different brand to see if it works even better. You just never know what you might find.

As always, I was very excited when I heard I would be receiving a hydration product in the mail via the BibRave Pro program - MESTRENGTH would be sending me a sample of their 5 flavors... and not just one of each, but two. Joy! We actually had our choice of flavors, but I wanted to try the whole lot, so went with the mixed sampler.

What's nice about MESTRENGTH is that it's packaged in single serving stick-packs that are easy to carry and mix with 20 ounces of water. I found I liked to toss it in a water bottle and then shake it up to mix it. I even threw a pack in my purse for when I was on the go, but wanted to rehydrate with something other than plain water (if you know me, you know I have trouble drinking enough water because I don't love the taste... I wish I was the kind of gal that drank 100 oz a day no problem, but I'm just not... I like flavor, dang it!).

I gave each flavor a try and have to say that Lemon-Lime was the winner for me. I enjoyed the other flavors, but I feel this one was a bit less tart than the others. I found the Strawberry-Kiwi, Fruit Punch, and Grape to be very tart, while Orange and Lemon-Lime were a little less so. Not to say I minded the tartness much, I just preferred the flavors that had a little less – obviously that is all about personal preference. 

I didn't notice any weird after taste, and there wasn't any strange texture to it, which is always a plus. Also, I generally am not a fan of anything that uses Stevia, I often get headaches or just don't like the taste, but I honestly didn't have any issues with it, and didn't even know it was in there until I took a glance at the ingredient list — after I already drank one... is that horrible?! My first instinct, generally, isn't to look at that, though I know I should. But hear me out – I have no expectations going in if I don't read the ingredient list... I might have gotten a phantom headache because I knew stevia was in there, but not knowing meant that the taste test was unharmed by any preconceived notions. Boom.

Anyway, here's the ingredient list (per serving): Calcium (30mg), Phosphorus (15mg), Magnesium (15mg), potassium (30mg), Creatine Monohydrate (5g), Citric Acid, Natural Flavor, Vegetable and Fruit Juice (for color), and Stevia (a calorie free plant based sweetener).

Due to a crazy work day, MESTRENGTH Lemon-Lime and
a ClIF BAR was my lunch.

It is recommended that you drink MESTRENGTH 30–60 minutes prior to your activity, because it will prepare your body for the work ahead. Or, you can drink it afterwards to help you replenish electrolytes you lost through sweat and provide your muscles with creatine to reduce muscle soreness the next day. Or, even better, drink it before AND after ;)

I did notice that after some longer runs, muscle recovery seemed to be better than normal. However I didn't notice much difference from the shorter runs – this is probably because my muscles aren't working as hard/long, so generally I don't feel sore post maintenance runs. I really wish I had received this product prior to completing my first marathon – I feel that it would have been a better time to test the product out, as I think I would have been able to notice the recovery aspect better (my long runs these days aren't nearly as long as they were training for the Dopey Challenge, nor as frequent). If I get in to the Chicago Marathon, I'll continue to test out MESTRENGTH to see how it helps with the long long runs.

As I become a more seasoned runner, I'm learning the importance of recovery. When I was first starting half marathons, I knew nothing. While my recovery wasn't horrible, it's not nearly as easy as it is now (and when I say easy, I just mean I treat my body with more respect post-run... recovery can still mean some aches and pains... like in my shins). I love my compression sleeves, chocolate milk, and know that hydration is a key factor in smart recovery. I've found that I love Nuun (especially during my runs or just to spruce up my water during the day), Hoist after a long run (or after a night of drinking one too many), and am now also a big fan of MESTRENGTH. 

Fruit Punch in my Shamrock Shuffle 8k pint glass post-run.

Now let's get down to what makes MESTRENGTH different from the other hydration products out there (from the website):
• Contains electrolytes for optimum hydration
• Pre-workout for maximum performance
• Post-workout for rapid recovery
• Five all-natural flavors
• Zero calories, zero carbs, and zero sugars
• Vegan and Vegetarian (no animal derived products)
• Gluten free
• No caffeine or stimulants
• Balanced blend of 5 electrolytes (most sports drinks focus on 2)
• Just enough creatine to support lean muscles (muscles need creatine, your body produces it, and it's one of the most widely studied nutritional supplements on the market. By Adding just 5 grams creatine, MESTRENGTH helps you to maximize each workout and minimize muscle soreness, without producing the muscle 'bulk' typically associated with creatine). 

Chart comparing MESTRENGTH to other sport drinks.

If you are more conscious of what you put in your body than I am, a bit more explanation to the all-natural product description:
The non-supplement portion is all-natural. The 'non-supplement portion' = although creatine is naturally produced by the human body, creatine-monohydrate is still considered synthetic. All of the other ingredients are all-nautral and no artificial sweeteners or artificial food coloring is used.

Have you ever tried MESTRENGTH  If not, here's a great reason to give it a try – 25% off until February 28. Head on over to Amazon and enter code 'BIBRVE25' at checkout. You have options of 10, 20, or 30 sticks, plus all one flavor or go for the mixed pack if you want to try them all. Have Amazon Prime? That means free 2-day shipping!

Do you already love MESTRENGTH? Great – you can use the discount code too. You can thank me later ;)

It's a great way to enhance your water (something I love to do, since plain water just doesn't do it for me). No need to mix up your routine... drink it whenever you drank water or other sports drink and try swapping that out for MESTRENGTH.

Have questions about MESTRENGTH? Check out their FAQ here. Or if it's something short, ask away on Twitter.

I will say, that as a company, I love them. The CEO, Sam, was very helpful and responsive as far as being in contact with me since the pair up. Also, whoever is in charge of the their Twitter and Instagram account is very active, always responding to my tweets or photos, which I appreciate a lot. It shows they actually care and like to be active within the community. Plus, I don't know if you noticed, but their address is in Chicago ;)

Connect with MESTRENGTH:
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

What other BibRave Pros are saying:
Jess | Angie | Tom | Amy | Sarah

princess half marathon weekend: preparation, part 2

Ahhh! Can you believe Princess Half Marathon Weekend is THIS weekend?! As you prepare for your trip, I thought it might be helpful to provide a check list for items to pack for your run-cation. The weather for the 5k is looking like it might be a bit chilly (at least while standing around waiting to begin... and depending on how you are, the 10k and half might also be cold for you), so think about packing some layers, throw away clothes, or wearing a jacket that you can put in your gEAR check bag. I'm doing the 5k and the Glass Slipper Challenge, so I need to pack enough clothes and gear for 3 races.

Race Gear
• shorts, capris, and or leggings (whatever your preference for the weather) - I myself will be packing 1 pair of leggings, 2 capris and 2 shorts (in case of weather changes)
• tech shirts - both long sleeve and short sleeve for layering purposes
• sports bra x3
• Feetures socks x3
• winter running hat & gloves (I have a Brooks hat and Saucony gloves I like)
• arm warmers
• sunglasses
• 2 pairs of running shoes
• KT Tape Pro
• road ID bracelet
• Garmin + charger
• Fitbit + charger
• Sparkly Soul headbands
• Sparkle Athletic skirts
• Oiselle rundies x3
• bandaids
• BodyGlide
• bobbypins
• extra hair ties
• visor
• extra contacts
• RunGoo
• Zensah Compression Sleeves
• Nuun + water bottle (for hydrating throughout the day)
• Fuel Belt
• inhaler
• Yurbuds

• kleenex

• chapstick

• Tylenol

• ENERGYbits

• RECOVERYbits

• Deodorant

• Bib Number belt or Race Dots

• Handheld hydration or a hydration pack (runDisney provides plenty of water and Powerade at the races, but some runners like to carry their own – maybe they prefer different hydration drink like Nuun or MESTRENGTH, or just want to be able to drink whenever they want)

• external battery charger – I don't know about you, but my phone dies very quickly these days, so definitely need a charger for at least the half marathon

• Throw away gear, mylar blanket, garbage bag – whatever you want to bring to keep you warm before the race (I'll probably just wear a jacket and tie it around my waist once I warm up)

• Hand sanitizer

• Fuel – I use Clif Shot Bloks, so I'll bring 2 packs (one for the 10k and another for the half... most people don't need them for the 10k, but I can't eat breakfast, so in combination with ENERGYbits and the shot bloks, it helps me stay energized)

Anything you need that I don't have on my list? I'm in the camp of wanting to bring everything so I am prepared for whatever comes my way. Others are more minimalist – which are you?

friday five: love

It's Friday, and I'm so happy because I have a day filled with catching up on errands and taking care of some stuff I didn't have time for during the week.

Valentine's Day is tomorrow – do you celebrate at all? I've never been one to care much for the holiday, though I tend to request special foods like heart shaped pizza from Lou Malnati's or heart shaped donuts from Dunkin Donuts. Food just seems to taste better when it's in the shape of a heart ;)

Last year, DD was out of the heart shaped donuts at 8am on Valentine's Day, so this year my husband surprised me with them this morning. He's so smart going a day early and he must really love me :)

I am linking up with the ladies of DC for the weekly Friday Five post – Mar on the Run, Eat Pray Run DC, and You Signed Up For What?!. This week's theme is 'Love'. So I am going to give you 5 random things I'm loving at this point in time.

1. My Nike Lunarglide 6s.

2. Beck's album 'Morning Phase'. It's pretty awesome, and I love how mellow it is. Great for listening to while I'm working.

3. Homemade Vanilla Chai (loosely based off the Dunkin Donuts version). I found the recipe online, and have been loving it. I'm currently lacking two ingredients in my mix, because they were quite expensive at Jewel. Tastes pretty good without them, so I'm ok with it. I've been using my husband's milk frother to make it extra delicious.

4. The Light Between Oceans - currently reading and thoroughly enjoying. It has a book to video sticker on it (I borrow books from the library)... is it already a movie, or currently in production? Haven't heard anything about it.

5. runDisney Princess Half Marathon gear sneak peak! I have no idea how I'm going to decide what to purchase... it's gonna be a tough one. I definitely need the jacket that says Have you seen my glass slipper, the wine glass, and the 'I Did It' shirts. What do you think of the gear? Any must-haves on your list (if you are going)?

I hope you all have a fantastic weekend, and a beautiful Valentine's Day, whether you celebrate it with someone you love, or home alone with a glass of wine (which will probably be me haha).

princess half marathon weekend: preparation, part 1

With Princess Half Marathon Weekend rapidly approaching, it's time to make sure you have everything you need. Here's a breakdown of some things you want to look at and what you want to print before leaving for your trip. Are you as excited as I am that it's next week?!

Event Guide

It's helpful to take a look at this ahead of time – you can start planning what vendors you want to visit at the expo, get an idea of the layout so you know where to go and when, and start thinking ahead about your schedule. I like to have an idea of everything before I leave, it puts my anxiety at a more manageable level. 

Download the digital event guide here.

Waivers

You'll want to print your waivers ahead of time, so you can pop right on in to the expo and grab your packets.

Race Waivers

Castaway Cay Challenge Waivers

Pasta in the Park Party Waiver (adult)

Pasta in the Park Party Waiver (minor)

ChEAR Squad Waiver (adult)

ChEAR Squad Waiver (minor)

Breakfast Waiver (adult)

Breakfast Waiver (minor)

Course

Now's a great time to look at the course to get an idea of where you'll be running, where the Aid Stations are, etc.

Half Marathon Course

5k/10k Course

Corral Assignments

After your print your waiver (for Glass Slipper and Half Marathon participants), you can find what corral you are in based off of your bib number. Make sure to fill out the emergency medical information on the back of your bib before race day. 

I'll be in L for the Glass Slipper Challenge, so if you're in the same corral let's try and meet up :) Generally, before the race, I meet up with other pals to hang out before we have to enter the corrals.

Weekend Schedule

Packet Pick-Up
Location: Jostens® Center at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

All runners are required to attend the runDisney Health and Fitness Expo for race number and packet pick-up. You will need to download your personalized race number pick-up card/waiver form online and bring it with you to Packet Pick-Up at the Expo.  

Also take note - if you are participating in the Glass Slipper Challenge, you'll need to take your photo with your bib. If it's set up like it was at Marathon Weekend, after you get your packet, on your way out, they'll have workers/volunteers telling you where you need to go.

runDisney Health and Fitness Expo
ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex 
10:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2015
9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 20, 2015 
9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2015

Disney Princess 5K presented by Children's Miracle Network Hospitals
Epcot®
6:15 a.m. on Friday, February 20, 2015

Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend Breakfast
Epcot®
6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. on Friday, February 20, 2015 
6:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2015

Princess Breakfast Pricing includes
Breakfast Buffet
Disney character meet & greets
Opportunities for photos and autographs with Disney Characters

runDisney Kids Races
Epcot®
Friday, February 20 – Saturday, February 21, 2015
1 Mile Run - 8:45 a.m.
Dashes - 9:15 a.m.

Pasta in the Park Party
World Showplace Pavilion Epcot®
Friday, February 20, 2015 
Saturday, February 21, 2015
6:00 to 8:30 p.m. Buffet Dinner
9:00 p.m. Illuminations: Reflections of Earth

Disney Enchanted 10K presented by Children's Miracle Network Hospitals
Epcot®
5:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2015

Disney Princess Half Marathon presented by Children's Miracle Network Hospitals
Epcot®
5:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2015
Dates and times are subject to change.

Race Retreat
Family Reunion Area at Epcot® Wonder Lot

3:00 – 5:00 a.m. (runners only)

Happily Ever After Party at Downtown Disney®
Downtown Disney®
4:00 – 10:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2015

week in review: february 2–8

Well, it was another lazy week as far as working out went. However, it was a productive week at the house and a very busy few days at work, which meant some later nights (and later morning than expected thanks to train delays).

I finally have my training plan in the calendar for my goal half marathon in early May, so that's really exciting. I'm the kind of person that has to be following a plan, otherwise, I get into the habit of not doing anything. 

Other than that, I was able to spend some quality time with my husband out to dinner/drinks and watching Breaking Bad (we just started and are hooked!). Saturday night we met up with some friends for drinks, and then Sunday night we went out with my parent-in-laws to a dinner up north at L. Woods - I had a delicious parmesan crusted steak. Yum yum yum. 

Things to look forward to this week (or that have happened already):

• I've been testing out MESTRENGTH flavors and there'll be a review on the blog later in the week. You can get a 25% discount if you go to Amazon and use code 'BIBRVE25' when you check out.  

• I, along with some of my fellow Bib Rave Pros, have been working on videos for a new website/project that Addaday unveiled today - check it out! They'll be featuring a new video each week. I've seen most of my friends' videos, and they are pretty awesome. I'm still working on my skills, but get better as I go ;)

• runDisney has unveiled the design for the Dooney & Bourke purses for Princess Half Marathon Weekend. What do you think? Anyone know how they will be going about selling them? They didn't do a pre-sale like they did for Marathon Weekend, as far as I know.

• BibRave is doing a fun little thing for Valentine's Week - they are posting some photos for you to share and tag your BRF(s) (Best Running Friend(s)). Check out their twitter account, or grab the photos here. Make sure to use the correct hashtags as well (#BibChat #BRFVDay).

How was your week? What are you training for, currently, if anything?

february 2015 goals

Hi guys! You may have noticed that I haven't been doing my 'Weekly Chase' goal blog posts. I was finding that my goals were pretty much the same each week, and I started to ignore  them a bit, so wanted to give myself a break so that I would be excited for when I started making goals again.

Obviously, completing the Dopey Challenge had been my main goal for a while, so that was always on my mind. Now that that is over, and a new month has arrived, I decided to make some new goals for the month of February.

1. Get back to hydrating DAILY. My goal for the month is to drink 48 oz (6 cups) of water a day. Since I'm not super into water on it's own, I'll mix it up between drinking regular filtered water and mixing it with flavored things like Nuun and MESTRENGTH (especially these when running). I'll use My Fitness Pal to keep track of my water intake.

2. Run at least 50 miles.

3. Create a training plan for my May 3 half marathon.

4. Read 2 books.

5. Stay consistent with my blog posts. I'm not always very timely on my blog posts. I'd like to get to the point where I am writing my posts the night prior to their schedule posting, so that it can automatically post at a certain time (so every Friday, write my post Thursday night and schedule for posting at 10am every week). 

6. Catch up on at least 5 race recaps. I am horrible at writing timely recaps from my races. I still have ones from last JULY that I haven't written. It's horrible. I write up the reviews on BibRave, so I don't know why I procrastinate so much on the blog recaps. For some reason, in my mind, I make it seem like a really tough, time-consuming task, when in reality, it's not that bad.

7. Take character photos during Princess Half Marathon Weekend! I am doing the 5k and the Glass Slipper Challenge (10k and half marathon). The first few times I did runDisney, I was on the slower end and didn't stop for any photos in fear of getting swept. Now that I'm a little faster, and less scared of being swept, I want to enjoy the race more and get a bit more for my money, which means stopping for photos. 

8. Try out some classes at the gym. They have a few interesting ones - Pilates Mat, Hatha Yoga, Pilates Barre, Cyclone Cycle (spin class). It's time I give some of these a shot to see if I like them enough to add to my routines.

9. Run at least 3x a week and Cross Train at least 2x a week.

Hopefully I didn't overload myself on goals... I was shooting for 5, but kept coming up with others I want to accomplish as well. Hopefully I get out of my winter doldrums and get back into a routine.

Do you have any goals for this month? 

friday five: favorite indoor workouts

Happy Friday everyone! I'm finally getting back to my normal schedule, and am joining back in with the Friday Five linkup hosted by Courtney at Eat, Pray, Run DC, Cynthia at You Signed Up For What?, and Mar at Mar on the Run. Thanks for hosting, ladies! (Click on the links for each lovely lady to read their FF posts and to find other blogs to read from the linkup).

The theme for today is 'Favorite Indoor Workouts':

1. Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred - I love her quick 25–30 minute videos that are tough as nails. You can squeeze in a workout even if you are pressed for time, and you know you're making those 25 minutes count.

2. Jillian Michaels Body Revolution - see above.

3. Treadmill - I know most people hate the treadmill, but when it's too cold/icy outside in the winter, or too hot/humid in the summer, it's a great way to still get in my runs. As long as I have some good music or a good movie/tv show, I find the time to go by quickly enough. Mind you, I don't want to do my long long runs on there, but it's a great way to do the maintenance ones if the weather outside isn't to my liking.

4. Yoga - Great way to strengthen your body, as well as relax, burn calories, and fine tune the muscles.

5. Barre Classes - another great way to burn calories, build and lengthen muscles. I couldn't afford classes in the city anymore, but there is a Barre Pilates class at my gym that I'm going to try out next week.

What are your favorite go-to indoor workouts?

f^3 lake half marathon recap

Disclaimer: I received a free entry into the F^3 Lake Half Marathon as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!*

Plus a drawstring backpack.

A mere two weeks after the Dopey Challenge and a week after getting home from a cruise in which I ran the Castaway Cay 5K (completed the Castaway Cay Challenge),  I ran in the F^3 Lake Half Marathon. Well, running my might a very loose term in this case, as my body was very tired from the events two weeks prior and wasn't quite prepared for another half marathon yet. However, I had registered through BibRave, and had a commitment to fulfill (not that I was even thinking about backing out, I felt like I was ok to run, but once I hit the midway mark I could tell that I was exhausted).

One of the things that drew me to this race initially (before knowing about the possibility of running via BibRave) was the awesome SWAG that came with the race - knit winter hat + bottle opener medal (unique shape) + gloves + drawstring backpack + free race photos + Goose Island Beer. That's a lot of great stuff.

I got the green one.

I was excited to have the chance to run this race as a BibRave Pro (it was my first race that I got a free entry for, even though I've done plenty wearing my tank and t-shirt :) ). I knew it was soon after Dopey, but figured I could handle it. Luckily, I was in pretty decent shape (and by shape, I mean I was still able to walk haha) after my first marathon, and I thought that was a good sign for the race.

They had multiple days and locations for packet pickup, which I always love and appreciate. I think it's important for races to do this, especially if there is no race day pick up (which was the case here), because it can be hard for people that live in the suburbs, or are coming from out of town, to get to pickup on a Thursday or Friday in the city. I was able to hit up Road Runner Sports, the Friday pickup location, around 11am. There was no line, and I just showed my ID and my mom's registration email to pick up both of our packets.

Packet Pickup for Road Runner Sports

The race was on Saturday, January 24. Somehow, here in Chicago, we REALLY lucked out with the weather. It was in the mid-30's and mostly sunny with a touch of wind that made the feel like in the upper 20's/lower 30's. For mid-January, that's really something. The course was clear of snow and ice, and only had some puddles here and there from the snow on the grass melting. 

Parking was available at Soldier Field in their north parking garage for $22. Once you parked, you could enter the United Club from level 3 of the garage - no need to even go outside! Loved this feature. There was a bit of a line to get into the parking lot, but I think I only waited maybe 10 minutes to get in, which I don't think is bad at all. I found parking to be fairly painless. 

The pre- and post-race portions were held inside. They had gear check, which I didn't utilize, as well as an area to pick up any extras you might have purchased (zip up, 2014 knit hat, or an extra 2015 knit hat). They also had these items for sale, along with some coffee mugs, pint glasses, etc. 

Being inside also meant indoor plumbing! Being able to use a warm bathroom that has running water and soap is always a plus. The bathroom I used actually had a short line, while the men's was out the door – I don't think I've ever seen that before.

It was pretty crowded, but I managed to spot Julia in the crowd, push my way through calling her name, and was able to say hi/take a photo :) I also met a twitter friend, Kim, finally. She called out to me when I was coming out of the bathroom – so glad she spotted me and said hi! She was very sweet and easy to talk to. She PR'd, so a big congrats to her!

I spotted Julia!

Gear check opened at 8:00am for a 10:00am race start. At 9:40am they did a warm up by the stage. At 9:48am, they led the runners outside to the start line. As far as corrals, they had pace signs up (went by minutes, so 9:00 min/mile, 10:00 min/mile, etc... not sure what they started with, though), so people could line up according to pace, and then at 10:00am the race began, starting in waves. It was maybe 2–3 minutes between each section. There were about 1900 participants in the half marathon. I didn't notice any issues with congestion, though I was mostly at the back-of-the-pack for the majority of the race.

Schedule of Events.

For those that didn't want to run the half marathon, they also had a 5K that started at 10:20am. Their goodie bag consisted of tech gloves and a pint of Goose Island Beer (beanie hat and medal for half marathon only).

I really enjoyed the course – I don't usually get the chance to go so far south on the lakefront path during a race (generally they're shorter distances), so it was nice to have some new scenery, plus there's something serene about the city in the winter—the lake, the skyline, all of the pretty sculptures along the path—made for great eye candy. But really, not having issues with congestion on the path is a RARITY, and I think it helped that being winter, there were less non-racers on the path and not as many cyclists as usual. Granted, the participation number wasn't as high as most other races that are on the path, but I was really happy I didn't have to do a lot of weaving.

The course.

Unfortunately, I was slower than I would have liked to be. I did the race with my mom, and we decided on 30 seconds running and 2 minutes walking to start off. Usually we can increase the running or decrease the walking times, but not this day. Since my body was pretty tired, I just couldn't get myself to go much faster. I was having some problems breathing, and I didn't want to risk injury or any health issues, so we just kept it slow.

The problem with this, even though we were within the packing requirement, was that the last two water stops were no longer serving (even though plenty of volunteers were still around), and at the finish there was no chocolate milk or KIND bars. HUGE bummer. Once we got inside, we went searching for hot chocolate, to find that was also all gone. Boo.

Other than that, it was a great race. The course was clearly marked, with mile marker flags at every mile. The volunteers were energetic and supportive. Having a later start time means sleeping in later, and generally a bit warmer temps. The weather was near perfect. Being able to stay warm before and warming up after the race inside was an amazing plus, and would definitely be even more inviting/welcoming on a colder race day (so hopefully it stays at this venue – this was my first year, but I heard last year was at Montrose Harbor). The after party went until 4pm. I would have stuck around longer, but I had to get to a party and left at about 2pm. 

Race results were up quickly that same day, and you could find a link to photos on their website. I also appreciated the Facebook message posted on their page thanking everyone for coming out. It was heartfelt and I thought it was a nice tough. They sent out a survey the following day as well, which to me is always a positive thing to so – it means they care about how it went for all the runners and will be doing what they can to improve for the next year.

I'll definitely consider this race again next year. Check out my BibRave Review here. I also noticed that they organize the Waterfall Glen Xtreme 10 that I was looking into last year, but wasn't able to do and was hoping to this year. That's July 7, so I'll keep you posted if I decide to register :)

Connect with F^3 Running:
Website | Facebook | Twitter - my photo was retweeted by them :)

*Though I received a free entry into this race, as always, all opinions and thoughts are honest (and mine).

i mustache you some questions

Earlier in the month, I was tagged by my friends Nathan and Angie to answer some questions. I'm quite delayed in doing so, but here are my answers: 

Four names that people call me, other than my real name:
1. Heath
2. Auntie Heather
3. I don't have many nicknames so can't complete this one haha...
4. ?

Four jobs I have had:
1. Irish Dance Teacher
2. Graphic Designer
3. That's all of 'em
4.

Four movies I’ve watched more than once:
1. Lord of the Rings Trilogy
2. Zoolander
3. Harry Potter Series
4. Silver Linings Playbook

Four books I’d recommend:
1. Unbroken
2. The Book Thief
3. The Cuckoo's Calling
4. Loving Frank

Four places I have been:
1. Glasgow, Scotland
2. Dublin, Ireland
3. Brean Sands, England
4. Vancouver, Canada

Four places that I'd rather be:
1. Hawaii
2. England
3. New Zealand
4. Disney World

Four things I don’t eat:
1. Mushrooms
2. Anything spicy
3. Sea food
4. Ham

Four of my favorite foods:
1. Pizza
2. Cheeseburgers
3. Cheese fries
4. Craft Beer, yes, I'm including it in my foods haha

Four TV shows that I watch:
1. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
2. Downton Abbey
3. Revenge
4. American Horror Story

Four things I am looking forward to this year:
1. Princess Glass Slipper Challenge
2. Meeting more running friends in person
3. Entering the Chicago Marathon lottery
4. Checking off some goals (like cross training more frequently)

Four things I’m always saying:
1. I don't care, you pick
2. Going for a run
3. Want to go grab a drink?
4. I'm hungry

Four people I’m tagging:
1. Jess

2. Caroline

3. Erin

4. You - Pick any (or all) of these questions and provide your answers as a comment.

week in review: january 19–25

Well, Dopey Challenge training is over and I do not have another training plan in place yet. My next half marathon in which I have a finish time goal is at the beginning of May, so I definitely need to start getting something put together.

Monday, January 19: rest day

Tuesday, January 20: rest day

Wednesday, January 21: rest day

Thursday, January 22: rest day

Friday, January 23: rest day

Saturday, January 24: 13.1 

Sunday, January 25: rest day

Total Weekly Mileage: 13.1 miles

As far as how my week went, not too much happened. I am finally starting to feel back to normal after being gone for nearly two weeks, plus FINALLY starting to get my health back to where it should be. It's been a long two months, that's for sure.

On Friday during the early afternoon, I went up north to grab my packet for the half marathon on Saturday. My husband came with, and since we were so close to the Binny's with the tasting room, we decided to check that out. That Binny's is the largest I have ever been in, but unfortunately the tasting room was closed for that day for an unforeseen circumstance. When we left, we noticed that Goose Island Brew Pub was across the street, so went there for some lunch and a drink. Yum.

Saturday morning was the F^3 Lake Half Marathon. We really lucked out with weather that day. You can read my BibRave review here, and I'll have a full recap later this week. A goal of mine for 2015 is get my race recaps posted in a timely fashion (within a week... minus Dopey Challenge because I'm still processing it all!). 

After the race, I went straight to my favorite brewery for a special party. When that ended, I went home to shower and take a quick nap. Around 7 some friends came over and we chatted and hung out until midnight. 

Sunday my husband and I FINALLY had the chance to go see the final Hobbit movie. Great movie, but the only theatre in our are that had it still has the most uncomfortable seating ever. It was tough to sit there for 2.5 hours, even though the movie itself went by quickly. After that we stopped at the brewery on our way home, because I had the taste for a Bloody Mary and they make them so delicious there.

So that's my week. It was nice to get in some relaxing time — the only running was the half marathon, and I doubt there will be much this week. I want to give my body a little more time to recover from the exhausting month it has had.