It’s official. I’m on the injured list.

Don’t be a tough guy . . . take care of your running injuries. Thankfully I do not have a ruptured achilles.

But not for too long.

Earlier this week I had an MRI on my foot to figure out if the pain in the outer edge of my left foot originating from under my ankle bone was a stress fracture or peroneal tendonitis. I started having pain in this area of my foot on and off following my 3:34 finish at the Boston Marathon. I felt during the marathon but in the days after the marathon I began having an unusual pain in my foot. The pain would subside during a run but would worsen in the hours after the run and especially in the morning just after waking up.  I knew something was wrong and probably ran more than I should have after the marathon. As an athlete it is often hard to deal with this news and can be tempting to just “run through it.” I decided that that would be a horrible plan and was thankful to immediately get an appointment.

I have not been injured in a very long time. My last “real” injury was in college and well let’s just say that was awhile ago. In college my life was on the water. I spent countless hours rowing with my awesome Colby Rowing Team. In the off-season we spent our days doing dry-land training which included a lot of running and I ended up with a stress fracture in my right leg. Wow, was that a painful injury! In order to rehab I was not allowed to run and spent a ton of time in the trainer’s room bathing my legs in the bone chilling water in the ice bath. Thankfully I could still row and so was at peace with spending extra time on the rowing machine (Concept II Ergometer aka evil torture machine) until we could get back on the water in our rowing shell.

After getting my MRI this week I was nervous about getting my results because the recovery from my last running related stress fracture was long and with the trees budding all around and the trails prime for fantastic running adventures I did not want to have a stress fracture again.  Thankfully the news was slightly more positive. Dr. Kauffman informed me that I have PERONEAL TENDONITIS which showed up as inflammation on the MRI.

TWO WEEKS in a boot. 4 to 6 weeks of no running. Ugh . . .

The latest craze in running footwear.

Well, I guess my body is in need of a break from running . . . but I will be back at it soon and stronger than ever when I hit the trails again. For now it’s time to get my rowing shell down to the river . . . Pictures to come SOON!

Since I am injured that does not mean you should take a break from running too. I’s love to hear all about your new running adventures and to see pictures too! 

HAPPY RUNNING!

I WILL . . .

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Under Armour through FitFluential. No matter what I’d still be taking part in the campaign and would ask you to join my team to help me redefine the female athlete.

What’s Beautiful. Under Armour 3.0. #IWILL #whatsbeautiful

I am truly excited to announce that I have been chosen to be a part of the Under Armour What’s Beautiful 3.0 Campaign as a part of my ambassadorship with Fitfluential. It is my job to inspire and motivate you to reach further than you ever thought you could by setting new goals for yourself. Please join my team “Beautiful Trail Runners” HERE so that we can build a community of women with strength both inside and out who will support each other as we reach outside the comfort zone and go for our dreams. You can achieve whatever goals you have by saying #IWILL.

Fitfluential is “Fitness Found”

Never underestimate yourself. Don’t listen to that voice inside your head that says “I can’t.” Try something new.

#whatsbeautiful #iwill

Take risks and go beyond what you ever thought you could do before. You will surprise yourself when you find out how truly strong you are! 

The task is simple:

• Set up your own profile HERE #whatsbeautiful
• Join my Under Armour #whatsbeautiful team Beautiful Trail Runners and set some new goals for yourself on the trail. Your goal can be as simple as exploring a new trail every week or trying your first trail race. The idea is to challenge yourself to do something new, to be positive, and to be inpired. You are WHAT’S BEAUTIFUL!
• Share this with all of your friends (WOMEN only) and we will join together to inspire each other to step off of the pavement and on to the trails for my next running adventure to gain strength both inside and out to show the world What’s Beautiful!

My first goal was to finish my first 50K with inner-strength and determination however a possible injury to my left foot (possible stress fracture or peroneal tendonitis) has caused a shift in plans. I need to make sure that I take care of my foot and let it heal before I the injury becomes more long-term. Sometimes life slows us down for a reason so that we take the time to refocus and to readjust. this is just a minor “root” for me to navigate as I continue this awesome running adventure.

Under Armour What’s Beautiful 3.0

My new goal for the Under Armour What’s Beautiful 3.0 Campaign:

I will train for the Loon Mountain Race in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. I will be positive and continue to inspire others even as my body works to heal itself! #IWILL

Muddy Trail Running at its best!

When was the last time you ran a race just to have fun? After the Boston Marathon I wasn’t planning on racing for a little while. However when my two amazing friends asked me to run the Muddy Moose 14 miler I decided it would be the a fun adventure and good medicine for my soul. Being with my friends provided the healthy laughter that I needed and running the gorgeous trails in the fresh air brought me peace.

The original Pete & Gerry’s Organic Chicks ready for some muddy trail running.

I proudly wore my Boston Marathon colors and got ready for a muddy adventure. I had no expectations but wasn’t sure if my legs would carry me. Bridget, Joanna and I warmed up and checked out the start of the course. The ground seemed fairly dry which I would later discover was not true.

Muddy Moose 14 Miler: Organic Runner Mom is #BostonSTRONG

The race director gave us all hints of the mud that was to come on the Muddy Moose trail racing adventure. The pace was fast off the line and as we turned onto the trail the mud greeted us. At first I tried to maneuver nimbly around the ever growing mud pits left in the wake of strong strides. But after a bit I decided to just go forth and have fun and get dirty. A few moments after this decision I ran into the quicksand mud and my left shoe was promptly sucked off of my foot. Rather than discouraged this made me laugh. I pried my shoe out of the gooey mud and tried to find a solid pace again.

After about two miles the trail evened to a nice dirt road by a lake (it was hot at the race and very tempting to bail out and jump in the icy waters). Then there was some climbing up to a beautiful vista. It was so peaceful in the woods, calming and healing.Just me and the trail and the occasional other racer. Amazingly my legs felt strong and I was able to focus on my strengths. I absolutely love the technicality of trail running. Nimble footsteps hopping over rocks and roots, and weaving around trees. The sweet smell of the earth and the giant canopy brightened by patches of cerulean blue. The other runners too were quiet and focused on the terrain.

Eventually I began to see racers returning on the out and back course as we headed towards a “choose your own adventure” pathway. My friend Bridget came flying by, a flash on the trail racing to stay ahead of the pack. The course had a lollipop loop and you could run either direction. I chose to go left and was surprised by a water crossing that was “skirt high,” reaching the lower edge of my Skirt Sports. The icy water felt refreshing but shocked my legs. My pace coming out was slowed by frozen muscles (nothing like a quick ice bath mid-race). But I quickly got back in the groove for seven miles back. The course was an out and back which is great if you are feeling good because you have already seen the terrain. On the way back I actually felt pretty amazing. Perhaps it was the endorphins. The other racers on the course were friendly and there were lots of big smiles (because who doesn’t like playing in the mud!).
The toughest part about the race was that I was hungry and needed more water as it was hotter than expected. I usually come well equipped with plenty of Ignite Naturals Reload Energy gels but for some reason didn’t bring enough. For the last two miles all I could think about was food and rehydration. My finish time was 2:24.16, 7th female, a strong finish post Boston. The hose at the finish was definitely needed!

The Aftermath of a Muddy Trail Race

I would definitely do The Muddy Moose 14 miler again next year. It was a challenging course but a blast in the mud and the trail running was gorgeous!

Have you ever run a super muddy trail running race?

My friend Joanna rocking the muddy trail at the Muddy Moose 14 Miler.

Muddy but having a blast at the Muddy Moose 14 Miler

The Women’s Winner at the Muddy Moose 14 Miler showing off her Moose Prize.

Boston Marathon Race Outfit Preview

What to wear to a marathon:

It’s the final countdown. As Boston Marathon Monday closes in I am packing my bags for the big day. Part of final race preparation is choosing the race day outfit. On race day I want to be comfortable. During a 26.2 Mile race (yes, this marathon is 26.2 miles . . . haha!) there is nothing worse than dealing with “wardrobe malfunctions” such as nasty chafing or having shorts that ride up.  During training leading up to the race I have perfected my race day “look.” to one that is comfortable and will stand up to the rigors of running a long distance.

In addition to standing up to the miles, I am also staying true to myself and wearing fun bright colors and of course a fast “Gym Girl Ultra” Skirt from Skirt Sports (Skirt Sports was kind enough to provide me with this outfit–Gym Girl Ultra Skirt, Wonder Girl Tank, Long Sleeve Shirt, and Arm Warmers– for me to wear during the Boston Marathon).  My other marathon outfit staples are SLS3 Women’s Butterfly Compression Socks and a Sparkly Soul 5/8 Inch Silver Headband along with My Brooks Adrenaline GTS (#runhappy)

What is your favorite Marathon Race Outfit? Do you have any pieces of clothing that you must wear during a marathon?

If you are running the Boston Marathon on Patriot’s Day good luck and hopefully I’ll see you out on the course! 

20 Miles. The New Hampshire coastline. Energizing sunshine. Training to make a dream come true. A serendipitous meeting along the way. A new found inspiration.

Yesterday was a day to test sheer will and determination.  Last week my running schedule was loaded. The last big week before the start of taper (although I know there is still plenty of hard work to be done before the big day right Coach Denise? It will be time for some fine tuning. 3 WEEKS to go until the Boston Marathon!)

Here is a glimpse about the torture . . . I mean FUN that was training last week . . .

Final week of Boston Marathon Training Pre-Taper from The Sustainable Athlete

Over the weekend I ran a total of almost 30 Miles 29.75 to be exact! On Saturday my awesome coach Denise had me run a marathon pace run. When I saw the workout on my schedule I thought, “REALLY!?! but I am running the Eastern States 20 Miler on Saturday. Won’t this run completely exhaust me for tomorrow.” But now, I understand. The purpose of this run was to prepare my body for racing when I am fatigued. To train my muscles to learn to recover and flush the lactic acid faster.

On Sunday I wake up feeling rested but my legs feel tight thanks to my snowy almost 10 miler from the day before.. Thankfully the Eastern Sates 20 Miler does not start until 11:00 a.m. (also good preparation for race day at the Boston Marathon). I wake up do some stretching and enjoy a large breakfast, a toasted poppy seed bagel with cream cheese on one half and peanut butter on the other (I hope I don’t have any poppy seeds stuck in my teeth like Elaine in Seinfeld in case of any random testing . . .HAHAHA!), a giant bowl of granola with milk, an orange, and a glass of orange juice. I typically would not eat quite this much pre-race if the race started early in the morning (I’d actually have a pre-bed meal the night before to “fill up my tank”) but figured I had better get in as many calories as possible so as not to bonk when running through lunch time. I spent time during breakfast laughing to myself as I sit in a bar in the hotel by myself  surrounded by beer paraphernalia, a fully stocked bar, the smell of stale beer, with house music blasting. The setting for this pre-race meal is just too hilarious.

After breakfast I headed to catch the bus to the starting line. The bus is filled with some of the fittest looking people you might ever see all sharing marathon tales and tales of Boston qualifiers. I am trying to stay relaxed and enjoy a 15 minute catnap in the sun on the bus as we head to the starting area. The Eastern States 20 Miler has the most chill atmosphere of almost any race I’ve been to of this size. Perhaps its due to the fact that many of the racers are seasoned veterans of the marathon distance. I enjoy some relax time an decide its warm enough to ditch the long tights in favor of my preferred race “uniform”–a Skirt Sports Gym Girl Ultra in Lapis Blue, my SLS3 Compression Socks in Bright Pink (my daughters favorite), and my favorite well-loved New Balance Running Shirt from Reach the Beach, and a Sweaty Bands Head Band in a Zebra Print (for my son who has a zebra lovey) I like to keep my outfits colorful and slightly crazy. It helps keep me happy on the run!

A dynamic warm-up before the race with some striders, butt kicks and high knees to get my legs loosened up was just what I needed and  I am relaxed and mellow at the starting line and am even surprised to “run” (haha) into a friend who I haven’t seen for awhile.It is  good to reconnect.

Let’s do this!

The race starts suddenly and we are off down the coastline from Portsmouth, NH through Hampton Beach, NH (reminiscent of finishing Reach the Beach Relay NH), to the finish just over the state line in Salisbury, MA.

I work to settle into a nice easy pace (suggested pace is 9:15-9:00 for the first 10 miles. The race today is practice for Boston and not truly a race. This is hard. I have a hard time not being super competitive. Thankfully an awesome runner from Maine runs up alongside me and asks what my pacing plan is for the race. She joins me to run as our paces seem similar. and come to discover serendipitously that our coach is the same,  Denise Goode of The Sustainable Athlete. Kate and I begin to laugh and settle into a comfortable pace together, sharing stories of racing and family and life. The run is fun and the first ten miles seem to just fly by, we do not even notice any mile markers on the course. We just enjoy a new friendship and the amazing coastal scenery and warm sun (which I would later find results in the most odd running tan).

Sustainable Athletes and new running friends Sarah and Sandra

The run feels comfortable and at 10 miles to go we drop the pace to marathon pace, 8:15-8:20. I feel strong, my legs are still tight so I focus on keeping my strides long and relaxing my feet. I have noticed that I sometimes have a habit of clenching with my toes as I run. Perhaps that is why my calves are so tight? (any thoughts or tips????) As I run I keep my focus on my form and on finding my strength from training on the hills and in the mountains all winter. Running negative splits can be a challenge but this is how I have been training. Denise has been having me drop the pace at the end of all of my long workouts and today I can feel the power that I have acquired by running this way all winter. I am able to settle into a faster pace and challenge myself o drop the pace for the last 5 miles if I still feel good which I do. Running the last stretch of the course I am soaking up the sun and the sparkling ocean views. I am energized by thoughts of my Pete and Gerry’s Organic Chicks kicking ass on the way to the beach at Reach the Beach and can almost hear them cheering me on.

Pete and Gerry’s Organic Chicks Reach the Beach Relay NH (Van 1)

I finish the race with pacing just under 8:00/mile pace. I am salty, I am tired but I am proud. I watch my new running friend Kate cross the line with a smashingly fast time and then we head to the beach. The water looks tempting to dip our tired legs in but upon feeling the ice cold chill we decide its not worth it. Maybe next time!

I worked hard and have new confidence as the Boston Marathon approaches in less than 3 weeks. The Eastern states 20 Miler is a test of my endurance and my inner strength. I feel ready. Now bring on the taper!

Eastern States 20 Miler!

Training for a dream

A perfect day to run!

Link Love:

We Finally Got to Run on Dirt!–DangerGirl

The @OaklandMarathon–I finally learned-Pavement Runner

Marathon Recovery the Right Way!-Miss Zippy

Azalea Trail Run 2013-Road Runner Girl

Eastern States and Altered States-A Wicked Good Blog!

Winter Wild Championship at Bretton Woods photos coutesy of snapACIDOTIC

Challenging myself racing up a mountain–It’s Winter Wild!

The Winter Wild Series Championship at Bretton Woods Ski Resort (NH) definitely rounded out the winter mountain running series with a bang.  I woke up on race day to a surprisingly gorgeous, fluffy, 6 inches of fresh powder just outside my doorstep. Ironically being the closest race to home this was the slowest drive due to the star wars like snowflakes coming directly at the windshield as we headed to the mountain. I picked up my friend Bridget (Series Champion Age Group 30-39 and most awesome training partner) and we were both geared up to conquer the mountain.

This would be the 7th mountain course that we would tackle together this winter. This seems like an awesome feat especially since these races all take place in the wee hours of the morning in the middle of frozen New Hampshire winter. The community of racers had developed an excellent camaraderie over the course of the series joining together on the morning of the race with wide smiles and energized excitement.

After determining how many layers to wear (and of course being the day before St. Paddy’s Day I was decked out in all green, even my Skirt Sports running skirt), and putting my MICROspikes on over my new favorite trail shoe (the Montrail Mountain Masochist–Appropriately named don’t you think!) Bridget and I headed out to check out the snow and to warm-up. While the fresh powder may seem great for the skiers and snowboarders it added an additional challenge for the runners. The trick was to find  the best surface to gain the most solid traction. We ran up the narrow snow mobile path carved in the sweet powder meeting fellow runner Brandon Baker on the trail. We all agreed that running in the untouched powder actually seemed to be less slippery and offer more purchase than the groomed section of trail.

After a nice warm-up to get the blood pumping and the breathing going we headed to the starting line to find our friendly competitors. I absolutely love the energy at the start of these races, all racers counting down to the start in unison wearing spikes (like something out of medieval times), with boards strapped to their backs and feet (snowboards and skis). As soon as the race starts an extreme quiet falls over the field of runners. The only sounds to be heard for the trek up the slope are the sounds of breathing and crunching, and the shushing of skis.  The climb is more gradual than some of the races have been but goes on for TWO MILES! I quickly move over into a corridor of soft powder parallel to the groomed corduroy (skiers delight).  I focus on my own strength. I use my legs and remind myself of all of the work on the mountains and on tough runs through the winter that have built my quads, hamstrings and calves for power. I use my upper-body to find a rhythm and propel myself up. I focus on my breathing working to use calm power as I challenge myself to keep up with the other runners. The field is strong and the women in the front of the pack work in a tight group to challenge each other. The determination is incredible. Each runner/racer works through their own challenges trading places with strategic passes all the way to the top. It is beautiful on the mountain. A moment to capture in your mind.

Reaching the top is exhilarating and the sweat now dripping is a reward for the effort of the climb. I round the corner with an amazing female competitor just on my heels. On the way down my feet disappear into clouds of powder. Each footfall has a soft landing. You feel like you are gliding almost flying. The kid inside of me lets go and I run with a crazy smile and determination (one minor setback on the way down, a shoelace becomes untied–I worry that my shoe may fly off but run harder anyways). As I close in towards the finish line I hear Bridget and Amy cheering and glimpse the pink jacket of awesome runner Sarah out of the corner of my eye. I passed her on the way up but could not hold her off into the finish line. I finish in a time of 41:15 for a 4.25 mile mountain course. I am thrilled and the endorphins are rushing.

The Winter Wild Series ends for the year at Bretton Woods and I find myself finishing as 2nd Woman Overall in My Age Group 30-39. What an amazing experience to be a part of. This race series has helped me not only to fine tune my body with some super intense speed-work but also to fine tune my mind for the season ahead of challenging races. I am stronger and I have mental toughness and motivation to get out and go for it–Boston Marathon here I come! I challenge you like I challenged the mountains all winter long!

A big thank you to Chad Denning of Team Amp for putting on the amazing Winter Wild Race Series and also to acidoticRACING for hosting the series championship! Congratulations to all of the racers for an amazing series. I hope you had as much crazy winter wild fun as I did!

I can’t wait to see you all out on the trails and in the mountains this spring and summer!

Link Love:

Where the Wild Things Are-Outdoor Mom

Three Incredible Days With Lots of Incredible People-DangerGirl

Winter Wild Course Preview-Irongirl and Ultrarunning Boy

Winter Wild at Suicide 6-Photos by Nanci

2013 Winter Wild Championship-snapACIDOTIC 

Are you a Perfectionist?

I am and here is a small glimpse at my journey as a recovering perfectionist.

Don’t Stop believing! Don’t be afraid to fail! (Don’t you just love our Skirt Sports and cool Skida Hats!

The desire for perfection has been a constant road block throughout my life. I have always been a perfectionist. This often causes inner turmoil–a constant tug of war and indecision. I am a perfectionist AND a Libra.  It always seems so hard to keep the scales in balance and to just BE.

When I was little my parents had to work with my a lot to help ease my frustration when something was not (as I defined it) PERFECT. The hours that I spent figure skating challenged the perfectionist in me because when you are learning to do new jumps (hurtle your body through the air over cold hard ice keeping your fingers crossed that you don’t land hard) you are bound to fall down a million times. In order to become a better skater I had to learn to fall down and to get right back up and try again (thank goodness for butt pads!). My mom said that with many things that I was learning I wouldn’t want to try until I had practiced something in “secret” so that when I officially did it for the first time with an audience even if it was just my coach or teacher I would not “FAIL.”

#Inspiration-Don’t be afraid to fail!

Operating in life constantly believing that you are not good enough or that it is failure if you don’t succeed the first time is like being stuck in quicksand. It is impossible to achieve success and forward motion in life.  I continue to to struggle with this aspect of my personality on a daily basis. I need to overcome this constant fear of failing. What is failure anyways?

Since I began running after having my two awesome kids I have worked very hard to train myself physically to be able to achieve some big goals. As the Boston Marathon approaches I am reminded of how hard I have worked to fine tune my body like a musical instrument to train for the big race.  Now as the days count down until Marathon Monday I need to continue training on the roads and trails but I also need to get my mind “in tune.” I need to focus. I need to meditate. I need to visualize success. I need to BREATHE.

When I am training I am constantly inspired by the people who I run with but sometimes intimidated by what seems to be unlimited strength (whoever said comparison is the thief of joy was right). I am working hard to not compare myself to those around me because the desire to achieve “perfection” sets in. Rather than running my own race or my own training run, feelings of self-doubt and weakness take over.  I need to remember to try my hardest, to stick to my plan and to believe in my own abilities.  I need to also take the advice of a very wise runner who I met recently (DangerGirl) who says that no matter what, her first goal is always to out and enjoy the race and to have fun! The hard work of attacking the challenge is not even a question!

Inspiration

How do you cope when perfectionism gets in the way of your road to achieving your dreams?

What is your “weakness” that holds you back?

Link Love:

• Skirt Sports
• Skida
• Chasing a PR: Plant Based Runner

#MotivationMonday

I’ve got big dreams for what I want to do with running and am surrounded by such inspirational people who have dreamed amazing dreams, focused on their goals and dedicated themselves to making their dreams a reality. I want that reality too! Now, if only I could get over this wicked cold virus so I could get back down to business! I am trying to heed the advice of my coach Denise (The Sustainable Athlete) and take it easy but it’s hard. Just when I was feeling my strongest physically and mentally my immune system crashed. It’s pretty hard to avoid getting sick when you spend your days with little ones who want to snuggle and need help blowing their cute little noses all day.

The Boston Marathon is in about 7 weeks or so and training was a complete bust last week. I ran once on my treadmill and ran the Winter Wild Mountain Race on Saturday Morning at Pat’s Peak. Running the mountain race probably wasn’t the best decision since I was not feeling in 100% health and I had to get up at 3:30 in the morning to get to the race on time. But you know what it’s like when you are a crazy runner–I had to do the race to get my points for the series since I am currently holding steady in second place.

Sweet 2-lap 4 mile mountain race course at Pat’s Peak (yes, I even run up mountains in the winter in my Skirt Sports!)

The weather on Winter Wild Race Day was gorgeous. Light snow was falling and the temperatures were in the high 20′s. WARM! Unfortunately for the runners (in MICROspikes) the running surface was a bit mushy under foot making footing a bit tricky especially on the way down the mountain. The racers on skis and snowboards (“Heavy Metal” division) were loving the conditions though! I was happy to be at the race on such a beautiful morning with some of my favorite runners and competitors. Before the race I warmed up on the ski hill and enjoyed the gorgeous view of the sun just starting to paint the sky in pastel hues. When we lined up at the starting line it was just perfect seeing the smiles and feeling the positive energy coming from this somewhat crazy group of athletes. There were many kids at the race too trying to win money for the athletic programs at their schools through Michele Obama’s “Let’s Move!” Campaign. To be totally honest though I’m not sure who had bigger smiles, the kids or the adults.

I wasn’t sure how I would feel as I headed up the mountain but quickly discovered that I had no “Go Power.” My body felt like a noodle . . . not strong at all. Usually when I get to the top of the mountain and am ready to descend I am able to switch gears and just go for it. Not this time however, there just wasn’t any more . . . Have you ever felt like that during a race? So, I just decided to run and have fun . . . as fun as you can have running 4 miles on a 2-lap mountain race course. Even feeling less than 100% I still managed to pull of a third place finish in my age group which I was pleased with. My prize, a sweet Winter Wild beer mug!

Cheers to another awesome Winter Wild Mountain Race at Pat’s Peak!

There are three races left in the Winter Wild Race Series. One is a dog race at Whaleback Mountain. I am not sure if my crazy cairn terrier Lucy is up for the challenge but my friends and I had some good laughs imagining Lucy riding in a sled behind me up the trail.

Crazy Lucy AKA “The Scrambler”

The final two Winter Wild Mountain races are at Mt. Sunapee and the Championship is at Bretton Woods right before St. Patty’s Day so be prepared for a mas of runners clad in green descending down the mountain at morning’s first light!

So now, it’s time to nurse myself back to 100% health and get back to some serious Boston Marathon training. I dream about a marthon PR at Boston and I am ready for the challenege.

Now I am going to make a giant pot of chicken noodle soup when I am done writing, I am going to drink a lot of water, take my vitamins, and go to sleep early like a good girl! I want my body to be able to function like a well oiled machine on marathon day and the focus and hard work begins now. Even though it’s been tough to take it easy, I know in the long run my body will thank me and hopefully I will reap the rewards of some amazing race results this spring!

I dream of being a faster stronger tougher mountain and trail runner. What about you?

I AM READY. BRING. IT. ON!

Oh and just for a little extra challenge for my race schedule this summer I have entered the lottery for the Mt. Washington Road Race again. Fingers Crossed that I will get an entry this year. I will keep you posted!

Am I crazy? The ultimate Mountain Road Race Challenge–The Mount Washington Road Race

How do you stay motivated and focused when you get sick?

#MotivationMonday Link Love

Marathon Monday Week 1: Happy Fit Mama

Monday Motivation: Little Fancy Nancy

Training Truths NYC Half Week 6: Running Escapades

34 Ways to get in 30 minutes: Food & Fun on the Run

Two Races in 16 Hours: Dangergirl 

I Love Trail Running

Valentine’s Day and a love of trail running

It’s almost Valentine’s Day, a great time to reflect on love and what makes you happy. When I run I am happiest when I am trail running and this is why:

I love trail running

1. I love trail running in the woods.  It is quiet in the woods. I love the sounds of the birds and the loves rustling against each other. I love hearing the sound of the snow or leaves crunching beneath your feet. I love the smell of the trees and the earth . . . fresh mud after a rainfall, pine needles. I love the sunlight peeking through the leaves as your feet softly hit the carpet moss, leaves and   gently packed soil.
2. Trail running has saved me from the dark depths of depression. It is my therapy. It is my release. I am healed by the rush of endorphins, the fresh air, and the Vitamin D.
3. I love coming around the corner on a trail only to discover a surprising view . . . an unexpected waterfall, a sweeping postcard view, a hidden cabin in the woods.
4. I love trail running because it requires intense focus (you have to pay attention or a root might suddenly leave you with your nose in the dirt).
5. I love trail running because it has allowed me to learn to love being alone. I am a true extrovert (ESFJ according to the Myers-Briggs) so being by myself has always been a challenge but now I relish the escape into the peaceful and quiet woods.
6. Trail Running has helped me to become more adventurous and to set more goals. I want to run up mountains and run longer distances and to see new places.
7. I have discovered some of my best friends through trail running. We can run together in complete silence or talk the entire time even while pushing up big hills and it is fun either way.
8. I love trail running because I live in Northern  New Hampshire where trails are hidden everywhere so why wouldn’t you choose to run on the trails instead of the road?
9. Running on trails at night can be an amazing adventure especially if the moon is full.
10. Trail running makes me happy . . .it’s just that simple

Why do you love to trail run?

Why do you love to run? Join the #RUNCHAT Valentine’s Day Challenge and spread the love of running.

If you want to join in with “spreading the love of running,” #RUNCHAT is hosting a Valentine’s Day contest with some sweet prizes from Sparkly Soul and StrideBox to name a few. All you need to do is this, “The challenge is simple: make a list of 5-10 things you love about running. Blog about it and then post a link in our comments . . .to find out more please click HERE.

Link Love:

Motivation: Running Outside My Comfort Zone & Women Who Inspire

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for Runners

Blizzards make for some crazy racing!–DangerGirl

Why I love Running–Happy Fit Mama

Spread the love of running– The #RUNCHAT

Why Do You Love Running? (The#RunChat Valentine’s Challenge)–Perspicacity

A List: Why I Love Running–Kate Muehe

On running–Planes, Trains and Running Shoes

Valentine’s Day Running Gifts for the Runner that you Love!

Run with the one you love this Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is only a few days a way! I have put together this helpful Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for runners in case you are in need of a few last minute suggestions for something sweet for the runner in your life.

1. SKIDA–If you have checked out my blog before you already know that Skida Hats and headbands are my favorite thing to wear on long cold winter Boston Marathon training runs. And just to make this gift even sweeter they are currently selling these super cute Valentine’s Day edition hats.

Valentine’s Day SKIDA Hats

2. Skirt Sports Gym Girl Ultra– And yes, the Skirt Sports Gym girl Ultra is also one of my running obsessions. What’s not to love? Pretty colors, wild prints, and of course they are super functional too with awesome shorties underneath that do not ride up even when running 26.2 miles. The Gym Girl Ultra also has sweet pockets on both legs just the right size for packing your energy gels for the long run. It will be love at first sight when you see your runner in this cute skirt on Valentine’s Day.

Skirt Sports Gym Girl Ultra in Sunset Peach

It was love at first skirt-Happy Valentine’s Day

3. Lululemon Run Toasty Tech Tight–These running tights are by far the best I have found. The are warm . . . lined with a super cozy micro-fleece. They are plenty long, perfect for my ridiculous 36 inch inseam. They are form flattering with a cute tummy tucking panel, and they have 4 fantastic pockets for your keys, your iPhone, your energy gels . . . whatever you need to bring along on your long training run.

Lululemon Run Tech Tights

4. Ignite Naturals Reload Energy Gels (#TeamIgnite)–I discovered these amazing energy gels this year when I was looking an energy gel containing minimally processed ingredients with a great flavor. I love these energy gels because they are tart and not too sweet making them easily digestible when hammering out the miles and your sweetie will love them too on her Valentine’s Day run. Here’s a rundown on the ingredients directly from Ignite Naturals:

Reload ingredients:

• 100% natural fig paste: Easily digestible source of energy, and mineral rich to replete electrolytes
• Maqui berry extract: Antioxidant protects heart function, and a natural source of minerals and flavonoids
• Peak ATP: Elevates APT levels to create more energy naturally
• CoQ10 ubiquinone: Antioxidant generates cellular energy, and supports healthy heart function
• Ecklonia cava: Potent antioxidant and supports the reduction of inflammatory cytokines in tissue
• Sea salt: Electrolyte maintaining osmotic pressure in extracellular fluid, loaded with trace minerals

Ignite Naturals Reload Energy Gels–Raspberry Pomegranate, Wildberry, Blackberry Blueberry

5. Endorphin Warrior Jewelry –And if your running love loves silver take a look at these beautiful silver pieces by Endorphin Warrior which includes these beautiful rings with engraved with one word motivation. 

Valentine’s Day Running Jewelry: Focus Ring

6. Valentine’s Day Sparkly Soul Pink/Red Rainbow Headband–A bit of Valentine’s Day bling that will perform on a long run too!

Valentine’s Day Sparkly Soul Pink/Red Rainbow Headband

Link Love:

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas–Skin Strong

5 Valentine’s Gifts For Runners–Salty Running

#VALENTINESDAY = @HEADBANDSOFHOPE {REVIEW + GIVEAWAY}

I love Morning and Morning Sunrises– Where’s the Beach

Strawberry Coconut Chocolate Chip Mousse (Paleo and Gluten Free)–Clean Food, Creative Fitness and Following Your Dreams

Why I Love Running–Happy Fit Mama

Skirt Heaven