Hi all! Just wanted to do a quick post in between family get togethers to wish you all a Happy Easter! I hope you're able to spend some time with the people you love and enjoy some wonderful weather wherever you are!
Sunday, April 5, 2015
Friday, March 20, 2015
friday five: spring races
Hey guys! I've been a bit quiet here on the blog lately... I hope you haven't missed me too much. Life has gotten extremely hectic with some career transitioning and some personal things, but I'm here today to get back into Friday Five posts!
On Fridays, Courtney at Eat Pray Run DC, Cynthia at You Signed Up For What?!, and Mar at Mar on the Run, host a fun linkup with new themes each week. This week's theme is SPRING. I've decided to talk about five spring races that I'm looking forward to.
1. Shamrock Shuffle 8k on March 29. This is always a fun race. Being Irish, I of course like the theme. This year they are doing something new – finisher medals! That's exciting. I can't say I'm always a fan of the shirt, but they are tech material, so I wear them for training if nothing else. I'm hoping for some 50 degree weather! It's really fun running through the streets of Chicago, especially down State Street past the Chicago Theatre. The crowds are always energetic, plenty of on course support, and fun after party in Grant Park (though the beer isn't quite what I would prefer...). If memory serves correctly, there was a band playing and food/beer for sale. Participants received their first beer free if they were 21+.
2. Boston Marathon on April 20. No, I'm not running, however I love watching the live feeds. It's so inspiring and motivating. I can't wait to see how my pals do, not to mention Shalane!
3. Southwest Half Marathon on May 3. This is my goal half marathon. I'm training to get a PR. I like this race because it's a small runner field, so I don't have to worry about congestion or weaving around people.
4. Tinker Bell Races May 8–10. I am registered for the Neverland 5k as well as the Pixie Dust Challenge. This will be my second time out to Disneyland, as well as my second time running the Tinker Bell half marathon - - first time with the 5k and 10k :)
5. Soldier Field 10 Mile on May 23. Last year was the first time I ran this race, which I signed up for the week of, and was so glad I did. It was such a great race, and we had beautiful weather. It was really neat to get to run through Soldier Field and actually finish on the 50 yard line. The course was nice (and the beginning was fairly wide, so gave the large number of runners a chance to spread out), plus a great medal, tech shirt, and a cool bag with all of your post-race goodies (water, pretzels, etc.). I'm racing again this year, as a BibRave Pro, and I'm super excited. Shameless plug - register before March 31 to save $10 on your registration. On April 1 the price increases. I was planning on doing this rave again this year, I just got lucky enough to be chosen as a BRP for it :) Join me and #FinishOnThe50 at the 2015 #SF10. Head on over to SoldierField10.com and register!
On Fridays, Courtney at Eat Pray Run DC, Cynthia at You Signed Up For What?!, and Mar at Mar on the Run, host a fun linkup with new themes each week. This week's theme is SPRING. I've decided to talk about five spring races that I'm looking forward to.
1. Shamrock Shuffle 8k on March 29. This is always a fun race. Being Irish, I of course like the theme. This year they are doing something new – finisher medals! That's exciting. I can't say I'm always a fan of the shirt, but they are tech material, so I wear them for training if nothing else. I'm hoping for some 50 degree weather! It's really fun running through the streets of Chicago, especially down State Street past the Chicago Theatre. The crowds are always energetic, plenty of on course support, and fun after party in Grant Park (though the beer isn't quite what I would prefer...). If memory serves correctly, there was a band playing and food/beer for sale. Participants received their first beer free if they were 21+.
2. Boston Marathon on April 20. No, I'm not running, however I love watching the live feeds. It's so inspiring and motivating. I can't wait to see how my pals do, not to mention Shalane!
3. Southwest Half Marathon on May 3. This is my goal half marathon. I'm training to get a PR. I like this race because it's a small runner field, so I don't have to worry about congestion or weaving around people.
4. Tinker Bell Races May 8–10. I am registered for the Neverland 5k as well as the Pixie Dust Challenge. This will be my second time out to Disneyland, as well as my second time running the Tinker Bell half marathon - - first time with the 5k and 10k :)
5. Soldier Field 10 Mile on May 23. Last year was the first time I ran this race, which I signed up for the week of, and was so glad I did. It was such a great race, and we had beautiful weather. It was really neat to get to run through Soldier Field and actually finish on the 50 yard line. The course was nice (and the beginning was fairly wide, so gave the large number of runners a chance to spread out), plus a great medal, tech shirt, and a cool bag with all of your post-race goodies (water, pretzels, etc.). I'm racing again this year, as a BibRave Pro, and I'm super excited. Shameless plug - register before March 31 to save $10 on your registration. On April 1 the price increases. I was planning on doing this rave again this year, I just got lucky enough to be chosen as a BRP for it :) Join me and #FinishOnThe50 at the 2015 #SF10. Head on over to SoldierField10.com and register!
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
week in review: march 2–8
Tuesday, March 3: 3.67 miles
Wednesday, March 4: rest day
Thursday, March 5: rest day
Friday, March 6: rest day
Saturday, March 7: Cross training (Irish Dancing) + 2.74 miles
Sunday, March 7: rest day
I had a really busy week trying to get my portfolio put together for upcoming interviews, so running fell a bit to the wayside. I managed to get two of my maintenance runs in, however, didn't squeeze in my long run due to time constrictions. I honestly was proud of myself for even getting in the two runs, especially the one on Saturday – I forced myself to the gym after teaching dance classes for a few hours. It's really a big step for me, considering how lazy and unmotivated I've been since Dopey.
The weather here is starting to warm up, which means I'll be able to run outside again (YAY!). The problem with the winter is that people don't shovel their sidewalks, and I don't trust people not to hit me if I run in the streets in my neighborhood – I've seen the way they drive around here. So, treadmill running it's been, and I just can't find the motivation to run for very long on those things lately. I usually don't mind treadmills, but lately I'm just not having it. Anyway, hopefully the ice melts soon and I can do more outdoor running again to train for the upcoming half marathon in May.
On another note... my husband and I finished up all 5 seasons of Breaking Bad, which (maybe pathetically) feels like a great accomplishment haha. It's nice to have the pressure of finishing the episodes off my shoulders. I know it's crazy, but the idea of still having so much left to watch gave me anxiety – I had to know what happened in the end! It was a great series, and would recommend watching it if you haven't yet. Now it's time to catch up on the latest seasons of Downton Abbey and House of Cards. Eeks.
I have a 7k race on Saturday in the city (also the day of the Downtown St. Patrick's Day Parade), plus some more celebrating on Sunday with friends. St. Patrick's Day is a big deal in Chicago – especially on the South Side :) Other plans for the week, besides running/exercising, are a Beer 101 class and hopefully getting a new iPhone.
If you are free tonight, join me and my friends at BibRave for #BibChat at 8pm CT. Bart Yasso is joining the fun and will be answering some questions that runners have submitted over the past few days. I'm super excited!
What have you all been up to? Are you training for any races?
Sunday, March 7: rest day
I had a really busy week trying to get my portfolio put together for upcoming interviews, so running fell a bit to the wayside. I managed to get two of my maintenance runs in, however, didn't squeeze in my long run due to time constrictions. I honestly was proud of myself for even getting in the two runs, especially the one on Saturday – I forced myself to the gym after teaching dance classes for a few hours. It's really a big step for me, considering how lazy and unmotivated I've been since Dopey.
The weather here is starting to warm up, which means I'll be able to run outside again (YAY!). The problem with the winter is that people don't shovel their sidewalks, and I don't trust people not to hit me if I run in the streets in my neighborhood – I've seen the way they drive around here. So, treadmill running it's been, and I just can't find the motivation to run for very long on those things lately. I usually don't mind treadmills, but lately I'm just not having it. Anyway, hopefully the ice melts soon and I can do more outdoor running again to train for the upcoming half marathon in May.
On another note... my husband and I finished up all 5 seasons of Breaking Bad, which (maybe pathetically) feels like a great accomplishment haha. It's nice to have the pressure of finishing the episodes off my shoulders. I know it's crazy, but the idea of still having so much left to watch gave me anxiety – I had to know what happened in the end! It was a great series, and would recommend watching it if you haven't yet. Now it's time to catch up on the latest seasons of Downton Abbey and House of Cards. Eeks.
I have a 7k race on Saturday in the city (also the day of the Downtown St. Patrick's Day Parade), plus some more celebrating on Sunday with friends. St. Patrick's Day is a big deal in Chicago – especially on the South Side :) Other plans for the week, besides running/exercising, are a Beer 101 class and hopefully getting a new iPhone.
If you are free tonight, join me and my friends at BibRave for #BibChat at 8pm CT. Bart Yasso is joining the fun and will be answering some questions that runners have submitted over the past few days. I'm super excited!
What have you all been up to? Are you training for any races?
Thursday, March 5, 2015
march goals
As we begin a fresh month, I am wiping the slate clean and getting back to business. January and February were tough months for me, as I switched gears in my career, completed the Dopey and Glass Slipper Challenge, and basically lost my motivation for running. I'm taking a deep breath this month and diving back in. So, here are my goals.
1. Follow the training plan I set up for my half marathon in May, in which I want to run sub 3:00. I know that's not a lofty goal for most, but I've never done it and am determined to hit it this year! With Dopey training I could tell my speed was improving (though not for marathon distance haha) and I hope it translates into the half.
2. Cross train 2x a week - for me this will be walking, swimming, biking, hiking... anything that isn't running, really. I'd like to mix in strength training as well.
3. Run at least 3x a week, with a monthly total of no less than 50 miles. I've been slacking since Dopey Challenge ended, and I really need to get back into logging big miles for Run the Edge's 2,015 in 2015 Challenge.
4. Drink more water (and by more, I mean at least 48 oz. a day).
5. Hit my goal of 10,000 steps per day at least 5/7 days a week. I'd love to hit it every day, but that's unrealistic for me at the moment. I'll be upping my game once spring comes 'round.
6. Read 1 book (ideally 2, but I haven't had a lot of free time lately, so I'm just hoping to finish one).
1. Follow the training plan I set up for my half marathon in May, in which I want to run sub 3:00. I know that's not a lofty goal for most, but I've never done it and am determined to hit it this year! With Dopey training I could tell my speed was improving (though not for marathon distance haha) and I hope it translates into the half.
2. Cross train 2x a week - for me this will be walking, swimming, biking, hiking... anything that isn't running, really. I'd like to mix in strength training as well.
3. Run at least 3x a week, with a monthly total of no less than 50 miles. I've been slacking since Dopey Challenge ended, and I really need to get back into logging big miles for Run the Edge's 2,015 in 2015 Challenge.
4. Drink more water (and by more, I mean at least 48 oz. a day).
5. Hit my goal of 10,000 steps per day at least 5/7 days a week. I'd love to hit it every day, but that's unrealistic for me at the moment. I'll be upping my game once spring comes 'round.
6. Read 1 book (ideally 2, but I haven't had a lot of free time lately, so I'm just hoping to finish one).
Thursday, February 19, 2015
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).
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.
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).
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
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.
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
Monday, February 16, 2015
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
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?
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, February 13, 2015
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).
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)?
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
Epcot®
6:15 a.m. on Friday, February 20, 2015
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
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
Epcot®
5:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2015
Dates and times are subject to change.
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
Downtown Disney®
4:00 – 10:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2015
Monday, February 9, 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).
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?
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
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?
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?
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