#RWHalf Festival Part 1: Runner's World HQ Tour & S'mores

When one gets invited by Runner's World to hang out for a weekend of racing and other fun running-related fun, you clear your schedule and jump on the next plane to Emmaus, Pennsylvania! So that is EXACTLY what I did!

Fine you all are on to me. There wasn't much on that calendar anyway, but let this girl dream. Okay?

The Runner's World Half & Festival took place in Bethlehem, PA October 17-19. I, and 14 other bloggers, invaded Bethlehem on October 16 to get a head start. :)

(Note: Runner's World did sponsor my participation in the RW Half & Festival, but all comments are my own - ain't nobody got time for lyin'!)

I headed out to Pennsylvania on a Noon flight on Thursday, but first enjoyed a pre-flight Harpoon IPA. Cheers to a fun weekend!

Once I arrived in Bethlehem, we headed straight out for a fun night at Runner's World HQ.

That's right. This girl got to go to Runner's World mecca. Pretty sweet.

On the ride from our hotel to RW HQ, we were able to get to know each other. I knew a handful of the bloggers, but was excited to meet the rest of the crew.

Here is a list of who was in attendance:

• Matt from No Meat Athlete
• Katie from Ms Fit Runner
• Kristen from Fit Bottomed Girls
• Sarah from Picky Runner
• Ali from Ali on the Run
• Presley from Run Pretty
• Katie from Runs for Cookies
• Jamie from From Couch To Ironwoman
• Beth from Shut Up And Run
• Lauren from The Foodie Runner
• Charlene from FAB Running
• Dick from Better Cheaper Slower
• Aliah from The Get Fit Diva
• Doug from Rock Creek Runner

After enjoying a delicious dinner straight out of Runner's World Cookbook, it was time to have a personal tour of HQ led by the amazing Mayor of Running Bart Yasso and Editor-In-Chief David Willey.

The first stop on the tour was the Kiva. A Kiva is a room used by Puebloans for religious rituals. The writers and editors go in to think, brainstorm and find possible clarity. I tried to bottle up all the positive energy I could from the room. I will be selling it on eBay later. ;)

We continued upstairs to see the actual offices.

As soon as you made your way through the first set of cubicles, you enter an area covered in pictures of Runner's World covers from around the world. In the middle you will find a large table, a standing desk with treadmill and a stationary bike.

A spot where employees can do their work and work out at the same time.

Just around the corner we saw THE wall. The place where the next issue of Runner's World was being drawn up.

Along the top you could see every Runner's World cover since January 2010. David Willey and Bart Yasso shared their stories of their favorite covers. It was fascinating to hear, which they loved more. I wish I had taken down better notes during that time, but I was secretly trying to write Dani and Weight Off My Shoulders on the blank pages of the storyboard for the next Runner's World.

Yeah it didn't work. Darnit!

Then it was time to enter the magical place known as Bart Yasso's office. I cannot put into words the inspiration that room exudes to the people that walk into it. I really did try to harness as much as I could before having to vacate so someone else could get in.

The party continued down the hall to David's office.

David has been the Editor-In-Chief for 11 years and go toe-to-toe with Bart when storytelling. Seriously, I could've listen to those two swapping running stories all night long. I have a lot of reading from Dr. George Sheehan to do based on recommendations from David.

Photo of Dr. George Sheehan hanging in David's office

After a quick visit to the bike room, where the Bicycling Magazine test bikes hang and commuters leave their bikes, it was S'mores time.

Woo! S'mores. I can't remember the last time I had a good S'more. It was great to finish the tour with sugar. :P

Anyone notice Mark Remy totally photobombing my pic? I knew he wanted to get mentioned here on my blog.

After bidding the RW Editors adieu, we loaded on the bus to head back to the Comfort Suites. There was a killer DJ turnin' beats at their bar and we couldn't miss our opportunity to hear some sick tunes!

***

Next up? #RWHalf Festival Part 2: Amazing Shakeout Run, Altra Running Fun & Expo!

Come Play Two Truths And A Lie With ME! :)

I love the game two truths and a lie and sometimes play it with my running buddies during those cold winter long runs. Since I love it so much, I thought I would share the game with all of you. Okay the rules are easy. Of the three statements below - two are truths and one is a lie. Your objective: pick out the lie.

Got it?

***

Here we go:

1) I was bit by a dog while running a marathon.

2) While running in Chicago one morning, I discovered not one, but two dead bodies.

3) I took a mid-run selfie with Bill Belichick during the Rock 'n' Roll Nashville marathon.

***

Soooo it is up to you: which is the lie?

Terrific Tuesday: Contest Win, Got Chocolate Milk Delivery & A LÄRABAR Announcement

Whenever I come off a major race weekend - like I just did with the Runner's World Half & Festival - there is always a sad period. It can last a day, a few or even more than a week. So you can guess that yesterday was a blue Monday.

But it all changed today.

Today became one TERRIFIC TUESDAY!

Not one ... not two ... but three amazing things happened today.

Without further ado I need to share it!

***

1) I won...

[embedplusvideo height="367" width="450" editlink="http://bit.ly/1FywjL6" standard="http://www.youtube.com/v/OXMiD6c4lAI?fs=1" vars="ytid=OXMiD6c4lAI&width=450&height=367&start=&stop=&rs=w&hd=0&autoplay=0&react=1&chapters=¬es=" id="ep2984" /]

I will wait here until you watch the video!

Did you watch it?

Don't lie to me.

I will not write anything else until you do.

See!

Hearing the excitement in my voice was worth the watch, right?

I am freakin' psyched. I cannot wait to pick out the treadmill and change the lives of my entire family.

Thanks again iFit and Runner's World!!!

***

2) My new Got Chocolate Milk gear and $500 sponsorship money arrived!

I am in love with the new gear! I chose the Triathlon option of the three I was offered. I guess that is really hooking me in to triathlons for the 2015 year, huh? :P

I really did love the sprint triathlons I have done so far and would love to test out some Olympic distances, but I am not sure another Half Ironman will be on my radar. For now at least.

I think I let you all know that the $500 sponsorship money will be used to fund my first Ragnar Relay experience in 2015 - Cape Cod in May with Team Running Down A Dream. Our team is made up of 12 weight loss success stories, who have combined to lose 1300 pounds.

***

3) I am excited to be working on a new sponsored campaign with LÄRABAR!

But I am not the only one that is going to benefit. Be sure to tune back to the blog on Friday when my post goes live about my experience with LÄRABAR and the giveaway opens.

Did you catch that? I will be GIVING AWAY a bag complete with assorted LÄRABARs and RENOLA.

Are you getting excited? Well see if you can contain that excitement until Friday! ;)

***

Isn't this one sweet sweet way to turn around my post-race blues?

How To Pack For A Multi-Race Weekend In ONE Carry-On Bag

Never ever ever going to check my running gear when flying to a race. I couldn't imagine the panic I would go into having to try and replace those necessary items while out of my comfort zone.

That is why I make sure to pack - if not all of my clothing - at least my running gear in my carry-on.

Now when I went to Disney for one week for the Dopey Challenge, which included four races with different costumes for each, I successfully packed everything in two carry-ons. #WINNING

So how did I turn this...

... yes that is everything I packed for this weekend's trip to Runner's World Half & Festival in Pennsylvania. I am doing the Hat trick which means I am running the 5k and 10k on Saturday and the Half on Sunday.

Anywho. I turned that mess into...

THIS!

That's right folks. I am a packing genius.

What?

Too far?

Fine fine. I got my packing groove on and got a little excited.

***

Packing for a weekend or week with multiple races can be overwhelming so I break it down to make it easier.

1) Clean off a big space to work with - couch, bed, table. When dealing with multiple races the best thing to do is lay out everything in front of you so you are less apt to forget something major.

2) Begin with the race outfits themselves. Make sure you have the necessary clothing pieces for each race. I usually start from my head and make my way down to my feet.

Sparkly Soul headband, Zensah sports bra, Shirt, Moving Comfort Shorts, Sparkle Athletic Skirt, Fun knee-high socks and sneakers

Once I complete one race ensemble, I put everything in one pile and move on to the second race. I keep the same pattern for each race.

My tad sense of OCD really helps with this. ;)

3) I set up a "shake-out run" or back-up race outfit... just in case! It is also a way for me to bring back-up carpis in case my shorts randomly break down. :P

4) Recovery tools. I pack my Zensah compression shorts as well as two pairs of compression socks/sleeves.

It is tough to know whether a certain airline will let you through with your foam roller or the large Stick so I opt to leave those at home. Plus who wants to snuggle with their foam roller for a flight. I will opt to bring the traveling Stick or Trigger.

5) Electronics. It is time to make sure that Garmin watch is IN the bag and not left on the charger. IF it is on the charger, be sure to leave a post-it note in its place so you do not forget it when packing up.

While I do not run with music, others will need to include their iPod or other music players at this time.

Additional electronics are: laptop, phone charger, activity tracker charger, etc.

6) FUEL!! How can anyone forget about the fuel? It is a great time to take inventory of what you are missing and will need to pick up at the store or Expo. I am keeping it simple for Runner's World Hat trick with ENERGYBits and KIND Snacks Bar.

** Once the race gear is set, we can focus on the rest of the weekend. ;)

7) Non-race clothing. I tend to bunch these by types: pants, shirts, underwear, socks, PJs, etc. Thankfully I am only gone for a four-day trip so I don't require too many extras.

8) Toiletries. Let us NOT forget the deodorant, razors, toothbrush, etc. It is really to benefit everyone around us. ;) Luckily the toiletries are the easiest to buy on-site if necessary.

***

Once the necessary items are laid out ... and checked about seven times to make sure I didn't forget anything, it is time to start packing.

This is where the proper carry-on bag comes in handy!

For this trip, I am leaning on my Apera Performance Duffel bag.

This bag is the perfect size for a carry-on.

To make packing easier I simply pick up my piles, roll up clothing when applicable and place them directly into the bag. I know ground-breaking idea right there. :P

To save space, I will put my socks, underwear, razors, etc inside my sneakers. Every spare inch counts when packing.

Now the best part of the Apera bag would be the side pockets where I can put my sneakers. Each side of the bag can hold a pair of sneakers, which frees up a ton of space within the bag.

Some runners will wear their sneakers to the airport, but I don't go that route. I like to keep them in my bag and wear slip-on shoes or flip flops to the airport for an easier interaction with security.

There are also a ton of pockets, which can hold my Sparkly Soul headbands toiletries and chargers.

And voila my bag is packed for four days of travel including three races and extras!

***

I can also sleep easy knowing I can avoid the potential for lost luggage and race-day headaches.

I will carry an additional carry-on for my wallet, reading materials and a place to put any swag I will inevitably pick up at the Expo.

So go on your way my merry friends and pack smart!

***

What process do you have to handle the joy of packing for a racecation?

Dani Dishes: BIG ANNOUNCEMENT

It's BIG announcement time!! You will have to tune in to watch to see what it is... ;) Fundraising Page

Five Fantastic Finds

Social media is great for a lot of things like getting a shout out from Montell Jordan (yup happened and I have it saved!) or it is a way to find new and exciting products. While I hold my tweet from Montell Jordan near and dear to my heart today I am ready to share 5 new products that have burst onto my scene. Now some may be old news to you, but they are new to me! Yes I live under a rock when it comes to some crazes. Shocking I know. ;)

Let's get this party started!

***

1) Nuun Hydration

This is one where I am DEFINITELY late to the party.

Nuun is leading the way in portable hydration with three drink options to keep you refreshed and replenished all day, everyday. All three are ideal to help keep you hydrated and to make the most of the water you drink.

I tested two of the three versions of Nuun: Active Hydration and All Day.

The Active Hydration is a great way to replace the sugary Gatorade I normally use during long runs or races. Nuun has less than 1g of carbs, fewer than 8 calories, no sugar, no high-fructose corn syrup and no artificial flavors or colors. All big plusses in my book when trying to keep a more natural approach to fueling while training. Plus the watermelon is a nice treat during a triathlon transition. ;)

Now I personally do not have a problem keeping myself hydrated as I drink at least 100 ounces of water a day. BUT plain water can get boring so I enjoyed adding in some Grape Raspberry All Day into my mix.

Did you know dehydration is the #1 trigger of daytime fatigue? Sugary and caffeinated drinks take you on a roller coaster ride during the day, but with zero sugar, under 8 calories per tab, and a blend of A, B, C, D, E vitamins, Nuun All Day keeps you going.

***

2) RUNFELLOW

I love promoting local companies and small businesses whenever possible and Runfellow fits into both. Runfellow is a Somerville-based runner-inspired gear company started by Jillian, who I have the honor to get to know the past year.

Runfellow is a running community with a focus on motivating and inspiring fellow runners. Our positive, quirky taglines catch your eye, make you smile and push you a little further. We’re not just another running clothing company, we’re a community of runners and for runners.

Not only is Jillian offering cute tanks, tech shirts and long-sleeve t-shirts for both men and women, but she started a kickass running club in the Somerville/Cambridge area that meets every Tuesday night. Location changes every week and is announced on their Facebook page.

Picture Courtesy of Runfellow

I should also mention that $1.00 from each shirt purchased from the shop will be donated to the Young Survival Coalition, an organization and resource for young women facing breast cancer.

If you are looking for a fun shirt to wear to run/walk a race or spectate then check out Runfellow. And if you are in the Somerville?Cambridge area, come join in for a run. I'll give you your first high-five!

***

3) The Skinnytaste Cookbook

Gina from Skinnytaste.com is one of my favorite bloggers out there. She is also a staple topic during my Weight Watchers meetings since she offers simple low-PPV recipes that my members LOVE because she doesn't sacrifice taste.

Did you know after having her two kids, Gina turned to Weight Watchers for help to lose weight?

So when a copy of her book happened to show up at my door (value $30) around my birthday I took it as a sign ... it was time to get to cooking. Fine! We all know my wife does the cooking in my house. So really it was time to highlight recipes I wanted my wife to make.

The Skinnytaste Cookbook features 150 recipes - 125 all-new dishes and 25 of her must-haves - covering breakfast dishes, dips, appetizers, salads that won't bore you, meat dishes, vegetarian dishes, desserts and so much more. It seems like she is including something for everyone.

In her first cookbook, Gina makes sure each recipe offers her personal story behind the concept, her tips for success dubbed "Skinny Scoop," as well as the nutrition facts. Super easy for my Weight Watchers friends to calculate the PPV of each recipe.

After drooling over the 100 delicious looking photos, I quickly dove into Gina's "Skinny Basics," aka her hints for creating a good-for-you kitchen and lifestyle.

I can't wait to dive in and have an entire weekend of enjoying her recipes starting with Dad's Jammin' Crepes (pt 51) and finishing with the Silky Chocolate Cream Pie (ps 295).

And the entire meal will be guilt free.

So if you are looking for the perfect gift for your spouse, mom, dad or fellow Weight Watcher friend, get your copy of The Skinnytaste Cookbook today!

***

4) New Balance Glow Beacon Jacket

I am not one that easily becomes obsessed with running gear, but immediately after slipping into this jacket I was hooked.

An eye-catching layering piece, the women’s New Balance Beacon Vest features 3 levels of visibility details, making you visible from dawn to dusk. First, low-light visibility comes from the bright color, blending safety with style. Second, oncoming-light visibility comes from the 360-degree reflective trim, so you’ll catch the light when headlights and streetlights hit you at night. Third, no-light visibility comes from the revolutionary glow-in-the-dark technology on the sleeves and back: charge the Beacon Jacket under light and you’re ready to go, and ready to glow, day or night.

So what would I look like in the dark? Here you go:

It is a bit blurry since I was moving so quickly before the camera. ;)

In addition to the great reflective properties, the jacket also offers front zip pockets for storage, as well as interior media pockets for additional storage.

The New Balance Glow Beacon Jacket's versatility is well worth the $175 price tag.

***

5) iFit Active Tracker

Just when you didn't think there could be another version of an activity tracker enter iFit!

The iFit Active fitness tracker (value $129) works with its mobile app to track your everyday activity, sleep, and nutrition, while providing you with the tools to live a better and healthier life.

After entering in my basic information and sharing about the Fox that I am, it was time to customize my settings.

My favorite feature is "Move Time." I set my iFit to buzz when I haven't moved for 30 minutes. It is the jolt I need when I am distracted in work on my computer or sucked into a TV marathon after work.

I also love that it is waterproof. I wore it during my pool workout last week and it lived to tell the tale. ;)

Now I do not use the calories portion personally, but it is a great feature for those that do.

Please excuse me while I go take some laps around my apartment to hit my 10k step goal!

***

Which of these five fantastic finds will you try?

*RECAP* Closing Out The Distance Medley With BAA Half

You may know the Boston Athletic Association from this tiny race they put on called The Boston Marathon. I know I know it is rarely talked about so not everyone is in the old loop about it. Well it takes place on Patriots Day in Boston every April. A couple of folks get together and enjoy 26.2 miles from Hopkinton to Boston. Still don't know about it? Eh it's okay. It's never televised or anything. ;) Well the BAA puts on more than that little marathon. In 2012, the BAA created the Distance Medley and you know I had to take part. I was a challenge consisting of a 5k (April), a 10k (June) and a Half Marathon (October). If you completed all three races, you would receive and additional medal.  YUP that's where they had me!

In 2014, I would complete the Distance Distance Medley. Yes I made that up but it meant I would be running the BAA 5k, 10k, Half AND Full. No extra medal was offered, but I will pretend I got one and offer that up to the BAA for future ideas.

So Sunday marked the final race in the Distance Medley - the BAA Half.

This is one well-run race. The BAA has the system down pact and as a participant I truly appreciate that.

The race began at 8:30 so the wife and I jumped in the car just after 7am so she could drop me off near the Franklin Park Zoo, where the race began/ended. I opted for an english muffin/pb before leaving the house and a KIND bar to use as fuel before and during the race.

I arrived at the Start Area just before 7:30 and was glad I chose to wear a throwaway shirt as it was chilly! Hello Fall. I beelined for the port-o-potties to get that out-of-the-way and started taking laps around the Start Area to stay warm. Okay I was also looking for anyone I knew since I knew a ton of people at the race, but hadn't made specific plans to meet up with anyone.

Thanks Pattie for finding me and catching up!!

At 8:05am I made my way over to the Start Area. I remembered in 2012 that the Start Corrals were a mess as folks ignored the Pace signs and just tried to get into the Start Corral. Things seemed to run much smoother this year.

While the acting race director (actual race director of BAA was in Kona competing in Iron Man World Championships) and the Mayor spoke, I stretched in the Start Corral and took the opportunity to snap a selfie.

For the first time since the Dopey Challenge in January, I opted to run with music. Since I was sick the last thing I wanted to do was spend 13 miles listening to my horrible breathing/coughing. :P I'd let the people around me suffer through that. ;)

Following the wheelchairs going off, it was our turn. Just after 8:30am, me and 8000 of my closest friends set out to enjoy 13.1 miles.

I didn't have a hard time goal for the race, but in the back of my mind I wanted to finish sub-2. But I knew I would have to listen to my breathing and my body during the race to really set the tone.

The announcer reminded everyone that the first half of the race is more downhill, while the second half was the uphill fun and to race accordingly.

Just like the Boston Marathon the Half starts out on an immediate downhill. I could see myself getting swept up with the runners around me so I recommitted mentally to focusing on MY race. It wouldn't be a PR day - not close to it - so no reason to race recklessly.

I didn't have anyone out specifically cheering for me, but since I knew so many folks racing I hoped to see many familiar faces on the course cheering and running.

Mile 1: 8:06 Mile 2: 8:40 Mile 3: 8:30

I LOVE the Mile 3/4 area of the race because it features an out and back. So not only do I get to see the elite athletes FLY past me, but after I go through the turnaround I can see my friends coming towards me. :)

Mile 4: 8:17 Mile 5: 8:32

5-Mile Check-In: 42:51 (8:34 min/mile pace)

I appreciate BAA offering runner tracking for free for the BAA Half. It allowed not only my wife to track me, but I could update Twitter on the fly. BAA sent out Start, 5-Mile, 10-Mile and Finish Time updates. I love me some free updates.

The weather was perfect and it helped keep my breathing in check. I made sure to take water or gatorade at every water stop and walk through those stops. That 10 second break for my legs and breathing was crucial to me feeling in control throughout the entire run.

Mile 6: 8:33

Just after the 10k mark, I took a quick walk break to have another portion of my KIND bar. Now I am not one to usually carry part of a bar in the back pocket of my shorts and I know why. Hello sweaty KIND bar. :P But it did the trick and thankfully didn't taste any extra salty. ;) I'm happy I carried extra fuel!

Not sure if BAA had a discussion with the trees, but we were entering a gorgeous typical New England Fall landscape and I was loving it.

Why yes the pretty landscape made the incline we were tackling a tad bit easier. Okay not sure everyone would agree with me on that, but it is how I felt in the moment.

I was doing a really good job of ignoring my Garmin during the run. Pace was the farthest thing from my mind. I wanted to soak up the beauty.

And cherish that I was healthy enough to be out on this great course doing something I love.

With my feet moving on auto pilot, my mind was allowed to wander to think about how my life has changed due to weight loss, Weight Watchers and running.

A quick text to friends and the wife letting them know I had hit Mile 7 and I was back to soaking in the race.

Mile 7: 9:07

The crowds were pocketed, but mighty. Spectating a race can be a chore I know - waiting around all that time to catch a glimpse of the person you love come by - but I want to thank all the spectators for cheering on the countless strangers. Many a time that extra high five from a little kid has picked me up enough to push through to the next mile.

Mile 8: 8:27

Through Mile 8 we were making our way back towards the Franklin Park Zoo and the final climb to the Finish. I hadn't run the race since 2012, but the course came back to me as the miles passed.

I was coughing more, but seeing friends I knew on the course kept me pushing forward, but I needed help from my social media crowd to push through the final 4 miles, which I knew were hillier than the previous 9.

A call to social media meant I needed another selfie.

Mile 9: 8:17

Just after I took the Mile 9 selfie I noticed the boyfriend and the fiancee of two of my Tedy's Team teammates.  They didn't know how much I needed those smiles and high-fives. Again, it motivated me forward.

It was time to start playing the mental games of "Oh you only have 4 miles left" and "You ran that with Sarah yesterday you can do it now."

The Mile 10-11 stretch is an out and back with a hefty incline attached to it. I remembered this portion in 2012 seeming never-ending, but this year it wasn't as tough as I recalled. I guess that means I feel stronger now or I built it up more in my mind. You decide. ;)

Mile 10: 8:39

10-Mile Check-In: 1:26:41 (8:40 min/mile pace)

Mile 11: 8:19

Just after the Mile 11 water stop comes the biggest hill of the race. THIS was what I had apparently blocked from my memory. Ha. As we took the right to start the ascent up, I noticed a bunch of spectators walking up the hill to the left. I asked a few if they wanted to tap in and finish the race for me, but they just laughed at me. Apparently they didn't think I was serious??? :P I also asked a group of spectators if I was running in the right direction for the beer. Again just laughter. Well at least I could entertain them, right?

Can we tell I have a little fun while out on the course?

After the incline we are treated with a mile through the Franklin Park Zoo. How can you be angry when you get to run through a zoo during a race?

I tried to snap a picture of the birds, but it didn't come out very well.

Also it was a little BS that I couldn't buy some mid-run Dippin Dots for fuel.

I do regret not going back and attempting to take a mid-run selfie with the Camel in the Zoo. I feel like I let myself down there, but I didn't spot the camel until I was well past it. Next time I'll be more aware! I promise. :)

Mile 12: 8:39

The crowds were thick as we came out of the Zoo and headed to the Finish chute. We finish along the track within White Stadium, which is pretty sweet since the stands are full of spectators.

Mile 13: 8:18

I decided I wanted to up my selfie game and snap one as I crossed the Finish Line.

Now I am just waiting to see how it looked from the MarathonFoto photographers' angle. :)

Official FINISH TIME: 1:52:58 (8:37 min/mile pace)

Besides my Garmin saying 13.34 miles the finish time was spot on. I beelined it to my friend Greg, who was handing out Finisher's Medals. I had promised him that we would take a selfie together after he hung my medal around my neck.

Greg is an unbelievably motivating person who kicks ass on the running and triathlon fronts. Plus he let's me bother him with my asinine training questions. :) Thank you internet for brining Greg into my world.

Following the Half medal pick-up, I had to grab my Distance Medley medal.

Oh hey hey pretty bling!

After you pick up your medals, you are directed right into the post-race food area: protein bars, bananas, bagels and additional snacks from B.Good. I went STRAIGHT to the bagels and was psyched to see Chocolate Chip bagels. I have never seen Chocolate Chips bagels at the end of any other race than a BAA one.

Mmmm worth every Weight Watchers Point.

The only downside is BAA races don't offer post-race beer. We know that is a must for the races I sign up for. So this is an exception.

Overall the race was a great experience as always with clear directions/signage, tons of volunteers and great spectator support. Plus the bling is pretty sweet.

My second distance medley was in the books and I think I will keep adding it into the mix every couple of years. It is hard to commit in January when sign ups occur to be home each of those weekends in April, June and October.

I highly recommend the Distance Medley to all of my friends. But if you aren't up for that the BAA Half is a great first half for any of my friends/readers ready to take that next step in their racing.

***

Have you ever done a race series challenge or the Distance Medley itself?

Newest Obsession? Skechers GOWalk2 Sneakers Benefiting Breast Cancer Research

Now we know I test out a ton of different types of running sneakers, but I walk a ton during my work day and in my spare time with the family. So when Skechers offered me the chance to test out the GOWalk2 sneakers I jumped at the chance.

Note: I was compensated for this post, but all opinions are my own - ain't nobody got time for lyin'!

Normally Skechers isn't on my radar for either my running or walking needs. But the GORun and GOWalk series peeked my interest. Not just because the shoes looked super comfortable, but for the cause behind the shoes.

Cancer and Breast Cancer specifically affects families all over the world and even my own. My wife's mother is a breast cancer survivor so when I slip these shoes on I think of her. Her courage, her tenacity and her fight. It makes me want to continue to work on my own healthy lifestyle.

When I started my journey to shed 80 pounds, I wasn't a runner. I could barely make it to the gym. I started with a walk where one block led to two, which led to a loop around the River.

Add in a pup and the walk is heaven.

Now add the Skechers GOWalk2 to the mix and I am one seriously happy camper. ;)

I don't become obsessed with shoes easily so there must be something special.

So what sets the GOWalk2 shoes apart from the rest?

- V-Stride technology features unique angled outsole that complements a natural walking gait and promotes fluid stride transitions - Quick-Fit Portal on heel for easy on, easy off convenience - Go sockless - Integrated OrthoLite® anti-microbial sockliner helps inhibit odor and prevent slippage - Resalyte™ Midsole - proprietary lightweight injection-molded compound with memory retention helps absorb impact - Independent circular GOimpulse sensors offer flexibility and feedback for a more responsive walking experience - A multi-directional traction motif helps enhance footing control

Plus the tiny pink breast cancer awareness ribbon is a great reminder of why I am getting out to move.

Is it sad that I was psyched to find a sneaker that I could wear without sneakers that would take care of the odor attached to that idea? ;) It is the little things in life people. :P

***

In addition to the “Awareness” footwear and apparel line, Skechers Performance Division is supporting American Cancer Society in several ways:

1. Skechers Performance Division is offering a donation to American Cancer Society, and all of the Skechers Performance Division Awareness apparel and footwear will feature the ACS logo and messaging.
2. Skechers is hosting the American Cancer Society San Francisco Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk, and will be donating a percentage of proceeds from the sales of Skechers shoes on-site that day.
3. Additionally, Skechers is launching a register round-up program in Skechers Retail stores in which customers can round up their purchase to the nearest whole dollar to benefit American Cancer Society for the entire month of October. If consumers donate $5 or more, they will also receive a 20% off discount for their next visit. This will offer anyone shopping for any item in a Skechers retailer store the opportunity to give back and support the cause.
4. Furthermore, Skechers Retail stores are offering a gift with purchase for customers who purchase a pair of limited-edition Awareness shoes. The gift with purchase will be either a breast canvas awareness canvas tote back or a pink water bottle.

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I am proud to wear the Skechers GOWalk2 shoe in support of my wife's mom and the other Breast Cancer survivors around the world, as well as those that weren't so lucky against the Fight.

So now it is your tern to check out the Skechers GOWalk2 or any of the items featured in the "Awareness" line.

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Why you walk or run to a healthy lifestyle?

Pavement Runner Got Me Thinking: Do I Have A Marathon Shoe?

Let me start off by saying I still can't believe I can even write the title of this post and have it attached to my name. Most readers know I was not always a runner. I actually detested it for most of my life. I finally caved and gave it a try in January 2005 to help me try to lose weight. Well in September 2006, I tackled my first marathon: Clarence DeMar on September 24, 2006 - finishing 4th to last (309 of 312).

Official Time: 5:59:27

I vowed after that day that I would never run again.

I stuck to that promise for about 4 years... until the Chocolate called my name.

The Hot Chocolate 5k in Chicago on November 6, 2010. broke the streak.

But unfortunately my short return to running was cut after herniating a disc in my L4-L5 in December 2010. Fast forward past back surgery and PT to June 2011 and I was cleared to work out ... and run again. And run I did.

When I hit goal with Weight Watchers in January 2012, I celebrated. How? By signing up for the Rock 'n' Roll Savannah Marathon in November 2012.

Official Time: 3:58:49 (current PR)

It lit the spark again.

One marathon became two has turned into 6.

Boston Marathon 2013: 4:04:08

Walt Disney World Marathon 2014: 4:45:57

Boston Marathon 2014: 5:31:18

Rock 'n' Roll Nashville Marathon 2014: 4:42:12

The marathons locations were different. The stories told in their own ways. The memories original.

But through it all there was one constant.

My sneaker choice of...

If only I had kept a few of my earlier pairs, I would've had enough to make the entire 26.2 out of GT-2000s. :P

One of the biggest draws of the GT-2000s for me is the Gel Cushion system in the forefoot and the rearfoot of the shoe to absorb shock. Especially since having back surgery I just feel most comfortable in this shoe for the long distance runs.

In addition to six marathons, 19 of my 21 half marathons have also been in the 2000s.

What can I say I am a creature of habit!

So thanks Pavement Runner for letting me go down memory lane and realize that the marathon routes may change, the outfits will evolve, but once you find the shoe ... it is with you marathon in and marathon out!

I wonder which marathon my latest pair will pick for #7!

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Do you have a go to shoe for long distance running?

Face It Friday: Putting September Behind Me

The month of September featured both highs and lows: * Completing my first half ironman - big high!! :)

* Reducing activity to recover - sad low!

* Had a blast turning 3-2 - motivating high!

* Taking the celebration of my birthday from a day to a couple weeks - disappointing low!

* Enjoying some new delicious craft beers - delicious high!

* Tracking the good, bad, ugly - high and low! I didn't make my promise of tracking everything in the month of September - missed 1/3 of the month.

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But now we are in a fresh month ... okay I know we are technically 10 days into a new month, but to me a "fresh month" starts whenever we need it to happen.

From August 29 through today (10/10), I regained 4.5 lbs. Not happy with that, but I know it could've been worse. There were still some great things I did during that month and I am focusing on the positives.

But I faced the scale today to see that in the last two weeks I gained 0.7 lbs. That is okay.

It is fascinating that when I tend to go off track my body jumps to 161 and sits around there. It is such an odd thing I have learned about my body during the 2.5 years since hitting goal. Do I know why? Nope, but a pattern I have noticed.

This past week I had decided not to track over the weekend it was a big three days of indulging, two wedding celebrations and a lack of activity. I had 14 APs by Monday morning which is the least I've had in ages.

But after a walk with two of my fellow Weight Watchers leaders, I went back to guestimate as best I could. No need in lying to myself or my tracker.

It felt better to own up to the choices.

So my goal going forward is to gain more control over my weekends (as has been the goal all summer) and find a better balance.

Either way I am 4.9 lbs away from being back into Lifetime range and 6.9 lbs from Goal. I will get back there, but in the meantime I am happy that my clothes are feeling looser and I am in the healthy weight range for my height (which is most important).

We are more than a number... remember that!

On the flip side I would be happier with a little less weight off my surgically repaired back so focusing on getting back to the 150s!

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Do you plan controlled indulgences during the week?