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!

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

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

This holiday gift guide is full of trail running gear for the obsessed trail runner in your life.  In my last post I featured trail running gear that is great for more extreme trail running conditions. Now I want to share some of my favorite fun gear for trail runners (caution: trail running gear may include bold colors/wild patterns, and maybe even some sparkles-because who doesn’t need a little sparkle to add a little spring in their running step?)

Organic Runner Mom’s Holiday Gift Guide for Trail Runners (Part 2)

1. Sweaty Bands

I used to think that this type of headband would never work for me. Other headbands would always fly off of my head mid trail run (no joke-I think my head is a strange shape). But then my friend Alison introduced me to Sweaty Bands. They come in all kinds of patterns and animal prints and even in this awesome Viva Diva Turquoise Sparkle. These headbands absolutely do not budge even when you are putting in high miles and they keep the annoying little fly-away pieces out of your eyes when the wind is whipping.  This is definitely a trail running

Turquoise Viva Diva Sweaty Band-For Glamourous Trail Running

Skirt Sports-Lotta Breeze Capri-Perfect for Trail Running

If you read my blog your probably already know that I am a #runningskirt addict.  When I run in a skirt (which is on most runs) I love Skirt Sports. I love the wild patterns and bright colors of Skirt Sports plus the functionality of these skirts is amazing. The compression shorts/spandex under these skirts is super comfortable, does not chafe, and has pockets that can hold anything from an iPhone to several energy gels.  When the weather is a little colder and I am hitting the trails I still love my skirts. The Lotta Breeze Capri is very comfortable and perfect for running during this crazy warm December weather that we are having in New Hampshire (Where is the snow?). If you are looking for an alternative to running shorts I would definitely check out Skirt Sports and #converttoskirt!

Skirt Sports Lotta Breeze Capris-Lapis with Celebration Print

3. SLS3 Women’s Compression Socks from SL3S Intelligent Race Apparel

I have been running in these compression socks since last spring and love the feeling during and post run. They are supposed to aid with blood flow and also to help with recovery after runs. I also like them when trail running and mountain running because they help to protect my legs from gnarly things such as prickers and ticks that you can encounter on the trails. The other reason why I like these socks are the colors-Hibiscus Pink/White or Azure Blue/White.

SLS3 Women’s Compression Socks

4. LuLuLemon Run: Bundle Up Jacket

I do not have this jacket (YET). But every woman LOVES Lululemon. This jacket is simply pretty but functional too with reflective details, micro-fleece, water resistant technology, goose down . . . and MORE!  I bet the trail runner in your house would love to find this trail running jacket under the tree this year! (I know I would!)

Lululemon Run-Bundle Up Jacket

5. Women’s Swix Star XC 100 Gloves

These gloves are perfect for nordic skiing but have become my go to glove for winter trail running. They are lightweight but warm with a nice PrimaLoft filling. These gloves are warm and do a good job of wicking the moisture away from your hands.

Women’s Swix Star XC 100 Gloves-For toasty fingers when trail running

Hopefully these holiday gifts will be the perfect gift for the trail runner at your house this holiday season! Happy running!

Organic Runner Mom wishing you a Happy Holiday and Happy Running!

LINK LOVE:

Holiday Gift Guide for Athletes-From Jess @ http://www.blondepontytail.com

Fitting in Some Fun Shopping-From Outdoor Mom

Holiday Gift Guide for Your Fitness Fanatic-From Running Rachel

The Gift of Running-From Running Times

INSPIRE-#runnerdphotoaday challenge for @ihaverun

September 4-INSPIRE-#runnerdphotoadaychallenge for @ihaverun

My training partner Bridget. I am inspired by her drive and her ability to get out there and just run. And just look at her form. I am inspired to run like Bridget and am inspired to catch her someday (although I know it’s probably not possible and that’s OK). I just love to watch her fly on the race course!

This weekend I participated in the Virtual 5 Mile race put on by Laura from www.mommyrunfast.com. What a great challenge to inspire everyone to stay active during the holiday weekend and also create a healthy dialogue between runners. For the “Race” you could either run 5 or 10 miles. I chose to do 5 as part of a fun trail run with my awesome training partner. My mileage has been pretty low since running 36 miles at the VT 100 on 100 plus I will be running 23  miles next week with my Reach the Beach NH team the Pete and Gerry’s Organic Chicks. Also, it was my first trail run wearing my Merrellbarefoot running shoes (Pace Glove) so I did not want to over do it.

5 Mile Trail “Race” on the Moore Dam Trail

We ran the trailwhich is actually 6 miles so I counted five towards my “RACE” finishing the 5 miler in 49:42 with the extra mile for warm-up and cool down.  Participating in this “race” on the trail was perfect because it is my favorite place to run. Running on the trails it is easy to lose yourself in the green woodsy wonderland, soft mossy footing, a fairy wonderland. The run was an out and back. Bridget and I traded leading and following establishing a rhythmic cadence.  Our cadence was broken occasionally along the run for brief “hydration” stops for our two furry trail running companions Nanook and Lucy. The trail is rolling with a fair amount of rocks and roots to navigate over plus some really cool footbridges  used by runners, hikers, and mountain bikers. All in all it was an amazing day for a race/run! Thank you for the challenge Laura!

Happy “racer”

Long Tongue Lucy

View on the way home!

Related Posts:

Sweat-#runnerdphotoaday challenge for @ihave run

My 5 mile recap and a Labor Day Virtual run link up from www.mommyrunfast.com

I received a package from Skirt Sports today and opened the box to discover skirt heaven. A box full of beautiful lapis blue Gym Girl Ultras and  fresh crisp white Wonder Girl Tanks peeked out at me.

Skirt Heaven

The Pete and Gerry’s Organic Chicks are getting ready to hit the 100 mile relay course this weekend as an ultra relay (3 chicks) team at the Vermont 100 on 100 Relay. And in September our larger 12 person team will be racing the 200+ mile course from Cannon Mountain in Franconia, NH to Hampton Beach, NH as a part of the Reach the Beach Relay, NH.  Our team is strong and will be fast. And we will run our hearts out in our skirts!

What is your favorite piece of running apparel that makes you feel strong and fast?

Related Articles:

Fresh Friday: Convert to Skirt with Skirt Sports

The day was picture perfect for a Loon Mountain Race training run. Bridget and I set out for the mountain early on Sunday morning after an energizing night of laughter with friends the night before. We met another Pete and Gerry’s Organic Chick, Tricia at the base of the mountain. We were decked out in a rainbow array of Skirt Sports running skirts, ready to challenge the mountain in style, ready to show off our “evil legs.”

This is how I feel when I wear my skirt out for a run! (Evil Woman!)

The plan was to run the course for the race before race day to get an idea about the difficulty of the trail which Acidotic Racing boasts features climbs with 40 PERCENT!!!! grade! As we headed up the mountain Bridget shared her hand drawn map of the course which we promptly lost as we headed out through the thick mountain grasses.

Which way do we go? I think we go up!

We ended up blazing our own trail on the way up.  We enjoyed the scenic vistas along the way and the nice cool early morning breeze that kept our sweat at bay.  On the way up we talked about mountain running form and how to not waste energy on the long trek up.  Using great advice from Coach Goode of The Sustainable Athlete I focused on keeping my strides shorter and quicker while keeping my body upright. I have a bad habit of trying to muscle my way through uphill climbs rather than focusing on form and pace. This can be the kiss of death resulting in burning up too much energy to early on in the race. It is amazing how much we are able to learn from each other as runners as we challenge each other in different ways. We also talked a lot about the importance of going outside of your comfort zone in order to find success. Whether it be in math class, at a new job, or on the race course it is important to find your point of disequilibrium and then to face it head on. By challenging our comfort zones we are more apt to find our inner strength and to be able to use it as an advantage.

When we got to the top of the Gondola we discovered a playground so of course had to take a mini-break from our run for a little bit of playtime. Then Tricia bid us farewell and opted to hop on the Gondola for the ride back to the bottom.

Find your inner child

Bridget and I decided to continue on our adventure. We needed to run for approximately another 2 hours but first took a mini-detour  at the Loon Mountain Glacial Caves which in addition to squeezing our way through giant boulder crevasses included some stair running (hello quads and hamstrings!)

Caving

After our little detours to please our inner-children we got back down to business and headed up the north peak to the point where the race will finish on Sunday. The view from the top was absolutely breathtaking. You could see for miles and the mountain side was covered in daisies, periwinkles, orange and purple wildflowers and the sweetest, most jewel-like wild mountain strawberries. At this point in the run the sweetness of the tiny berries was a welcome treat.

Loon Mountain Descent

We descended down Upper Walking Boss which was in reverse of the race course. The run down was exhilarating. The scenery definitely distracted from the increasingly fatigued legs.  On the way down we ran as the we were carving turns down snow covered loon mountain, traversing the hillside back and forth in a gentle rhythm.

WOW!

Incredible NH

Our mountain adventure continued over to the south peak which required quite a bit more bushwhacking through tall allergy inducing grasses (My legs were covered in hives when we finished) with much trickier footing. There were a lot of rocks and deceptive footing which included holes hiding under wild flowers. We did not get to enjoy the luxury of weaving back and for the across the mountain side at this point. The grass came up to Bridget’s waist! My hamstrings and quads were definitely whimpering by the time we reached the bottom and we were looking for the escape route!

Escape Route

When Bridget and I finally returned to the car drenched in sweat but full of smiles we decided to end our running adventure with a cool dip in the Pemigewasset River flowing at the bottom of the mountain.  The water was perfect for a post run “ice” bath for our tired legs. We opted for a shallow pool of water not in the direct river flow as the perfect spot for a refreshing post-run swim. Nanook (Bridget’s Husky and our awesome running companion ran right in and lay down in the fresh mountain water).

B and Nanook, Daisy girl

Organic Runner Mom, Caution Tough Chik in a skirt

Flora on Loon Mountain

Now, it’s time to do some mental preparation and get out there and enjoy the Loon Mountain Race! Oh and as an added bonus I now have the chance to win some of our very own Pete and Gerry’s Organic Eggs at the end of the race!

Have you ever raced up a mountain before? I’d love to hear about it!

Related posts and articles:

Acidotic Racing: Up Next Loon Mountain Race