I Need Sweet & Salty ... Popchips Giveaway WINNER ANNOUNCED

Annddddd the winner IS:

a Rafflecopter giveaway CONGRATS!!!!

Thank you to everyone that participated and big thanks to our Sponsor!!!

***

Ever get home from a run or a hard workout and just start tearing through the cabinets looking for snacks?

I call them the Hungry Horrors or Rungry Horrors ... depending on your activity of choice!

But either way, I get home from pushing my body and it wants to be fed.

And usually with something salty.

Mmmmm salt...

French Fries. Chips. Pretzels.

You can it - it wants it.

But, of course those are not the BEST options out there.

So we need to find alternatives.

I was reading Jillian Michaels' book Slim For Life.

So many of her philosophies were also taught to me through my journey on Weight Watchers!! I love when I read a book and agree with the overall message.

Now, part of that balanced lifestyle, is about finding a healthier option for certain cravings/temptations.

Which brings me to my desire for salt.

Please enter Popchips!

Yes, yes - we all know my love and admiration for popchips ... but they've now outdone themselves.

How you may ask?

They have combined SALTY and SWEET.

What? How could that be? Can they do magic? Are they GOD?

It may be all of the above and then some.

But seriously, they've released their latest flavor: Katy's Kettle Corn!

When I first tried these chips I thought I died and went to heaven.

Too dramatic?

Nope!

I actually don't really like Kettle Corn, but gave these bad boys a chance thanks to Popchips Boston...

... and now I'm hooked.

(Note: I am eating a bag of these as I write this post ... I wish I was joking!)

So now it is time to pass my addictions on to you because we all need to know how to healthily handle our "Sweet and Salty" fix, right?

Here's how to enter the giveaway:

I will be giving away a free copy of Jillian Michaels' book Slim For Life AND a case of Katy's Kettle Corn Popchips to one lucky winner!!

Giveaway is open from Monday May 6 (Monday) to 10am May 10 (Friday)!

The winner will be announced on Friday!

I'm now a proud ENERGYbits Ambassador!

I love finding new companies and products!! As you all know, I only work with companies and promote products I believe in wholeheartedly.

SO my new love?

ENERGYbits

... and they are based out of Boston - yes I love to promote a local company as well! :)

What are ENERGYbits you may ask?

Made from 100% organicallly grown spirulina algae and loaded with 40 nutrients, ENERGYbits® algae tabs have the highest concentration of protein in the world (64%) all for just one calorie per tab. Endorsed by the United Nations as the most nutritious food on earth, spirulina algae has been a favorite of Olympic gold medalists for decades and is a super food in every sense of the word, delivering instant and enduring energy to your brain and body.

Yes you read that correctly - algae. I was unsure about that at first as well. But when I announced my 3k Twitter Follower Giveaway on Twitter, ENERGYbits contacted me saying they were interested in being a part of my prize packs.

Well, before I would allow that to happen I had to test them out myself. They sent me a sample - a little tin with the ENERGYbits tabs inside.

They recommend taking 30-40 tabs 10-15 minutes before a workout for maximum results. Each tab is just 1 calorie.

I decided to test them out before my 21-miler on March 23. Now I was told you could chew the tabs or swallow them with water. I didn't have any water on the bus so I had to go with chewing.

I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS ... personally. :P

They got stuck in my teeth and it wasn't the taste -algae - that I wanted to stuck in my mouth for hours to come.

BUT, they paid off.

My legs felt strong throughout the 3-hour run. I didn't feel the normal fatigue that I would feel on such a long run.

So chewing the tabs were worth it.

Since that day, I have ALWAYS made sure to have water on hand so I could swallow the tabs and no taste. :)

I liked the sample so much that I made my first ENERGYbits purchase on March 29 and delivery arrived on April 2.

I like that service. :)

So I have been taking ENERGYbits before runs, Spinning, weight lifting, etc. I even took some before a 45 minute walk with a friend.

Because ... ENERGYBits can be used for:

• Increasing Energy
• Increasing Endurance
• Increasing Mental Vitality
• High Protein Snack
• Curbing Hunger
• Balancing Blood Sugar
• Lowering Blood Pressure
• Reducing Fatigue

On April 29, I actually had the honor of visiting the ENERGYbits headquarters since they are just a train ride away from my house. The team behind ENERGYbits are a small, but dedicated group. They have been doing their research for years and are doing a great job of growing their brand through social media and visiting local races/running clubs. (Both things I love :O))

I even saw the guys before the Half of Quincy on Sunday and they came through in a pinch with some water so I could take my ENERGYbits. Thanks again guys!

But after trying the product, really reading up on the benefits of algae and meeting the team behind the product, I definitely wanted to get on board ... and thankfully they agreed.

And Dani as an ENERGYbits Ambassador was born.

(Who am I throwing in the third person there?)

So would you like to try ENERGYBits yourself?

Get 15% off your order by entering the code "WeightOffMyShoulders" at check out!!

Weekly Workout Wind Up (5/2-8/13)

I am feeling super lazy this week. But I am taking the weekend to write out my next training plan. I also feel LOST without a training plan to follow!!  

Thursday, May 2: 45 min walk with Abby and walking around 4 Weight Watchers Meetings

Friday, May 3: Rest Day

Saturday, May 4: Zoo trip meant walking from 10am-1pm

 

Sunday, May 5: Half of Quincy

 

Monday, May 6: 5k Run and 50 Min Spinning 

 

Tuesday, May 7: 3-mile afternoon walk with the pups

 

Wednesday, May 8: Rest Day

Half Of Quincy - 5/5/13 - PR 1:44:30 (7:59 min/mile)

Cancelled. Sad.

Rescheduled.

Happy.

The Half of Quincy was originally slated for March 10 - a perfect training run to prep for The Boston Marathon.

Then the snow hit and it was postponed.

The announced make-up date was May 5. About three weeks after the Marathon.

I could've deferred to next year ... but why bother!

I thought it would be a great way to test my legs after the Marathon.

So I decided to run it on May 5 as planned.

My wife and dad were going to come along once again to spectate. It would be the first race both would spectate since being a mere 20 feet from the explosion on Marathon Monday.

This race would be a big race for all of us!

The alarm went off at 6am on Sunday (Happy Cinco De Mayo!) and we went through the normal pre-race motions.

We were out the door by 6:45 - after I had to search around the house to locate my Team REFUEL singlet.

That is what I get for not prepping all race materials the night before!

As always I made us leave the house with plenty of time to spare since we had to find parking and pick up my bib before the 8am start.

After finding street parking, we headed into Quincy High gym to pick up my bib.

The woman handing out the bibs actually reads my blog!! (YAY)

(Note: I wish I had gotten her name so I could say thank you properly!)

It was also nice running into some Racemenu teammates as well as some Twitter friends/bloggers that I was finally able to meet in real life.

I stopped by the ENERGYBits table to say hi and pilfer some water so I could actually take my ENERGYBits before the run. Thanks again guys for coming through in a pinch. :)

Now that I was #PoweredByBits it was time to head to the Start Line.

I went into this race with ZERO expectations. Okay not zero - the only one was to finish in under 2 hours. I had no idea what the body was going to be capable of and I didn't know the course whatsoever. So we set the expectations low. :)

It was amazing to be surrounded by so much blue/yellow from The Boston Marathon. You could see how many people also had originally slated this as a training run for the Big Day.

Before I knew it it was time to start. I actually found another Racemenu team member, Nancy, just after we crossed the Start Line. It was nice to see her since I knew she ran the Marathon as well.

It's funny that now the first question you ask a person that said they ran Boston this year is: "Did you get to Finish?" or "Where did you get stopped?" Thankfully Nancy was able to Finish before the explosions as well!

Neither of us knew the course, but a guy running by us let us know there would be  some hills on the course. This was a different course than in previous years, but there would still be hills involved.

Oh yay!

NOT.

Just like during the 26.2 Challenge, I started out fast. I was going sub 8-minute miles for the first 5 miles or so. I tried to reel my body back in. I had to remind myself that this was a 13.1 mile race not 5 or 6 miles. Sometimes I think my body forgets.

We actually looped back near the Start/Finish and at the Mile Four marker were my dad and wife. It was nice to see there smiling faces. It gave me the little push I needed.

But as I hit the halfway mark of the Half, I realized I was well ahead of pace for a PR.

Sweet.

All race long I knew I had to be sub 8:15 min/mile pace for a new shiny PR.

And I was well ahead of that.

I even felt like a real runner during the race. I was buckling down, pushing myself up the hills and only went about 10-15 seconds slower when going up the hill. And made the time up on the flat.

This is something many of my fast friends do so I really felt like maybe I am becoming a better and stronger runner. Instead of always feeling like a poser. :P

By the time we hit Mile 10, the heel pain that magically showed up in the Marathon around Mile 15 flared up again. But I knew this time I only had to push through a few more miles.

But, did I mention they were the hilliest few miles of the course? Yeah, exactly.

I want to give a quick shout out to the great spectators along the course - especially the little kids giving away twizzlers near Mile 10. It's like they knew how much we all needed that little sugar rush. :)

Once I hit Mile 11.1, I texted my wife to let her know where I was so that they would be in place at the Finish. Then I yelled out of profanities at the Hills and the foot pain. Oops! Thankfully no little kids were around.

The pain was there, but not unbearable. So I dug deep and ran all out to the Finish once I hit Mile 12.

The last 1/4 of a mile was actually around the Quincy High track, which was sort of frustrating because you could see the Finish, but it felt like it was miles away. At least for me.

I was trying to distract myself by doing math in my head to see if I could break the elusive 1:45 half time I had dreamed out.

My previous PR was 1:48:09 set at Disney in January.

I saw my wife & dad cheering just before I crossed the line, hit stop on my Garmin, grabbed my medal and chugged water as quickly as possible.

The Garmin read: 1:44:27.

SAY WWHHAAA??!?!?!?!

Was that real? Maybe I missed some time or it had a glitch.

Nope.

I officially finished the race in 1:44:30 - a 7:59 min/mile pace.

Again.

SAY WWHHHAAA?!?!?!

I had to triple check the results to make sure 1) they were legit and 2) they were actually MINE.

But, they were!

I finished 193rd out of 672 overall and 18th out of 127 in my division (F 30-39). CRAY CRAY!

I give big props to the Half of Quincy organizers who basically had to set up 2 races due to the postponement. The course was full of police and volunteers stopping traffic and giving encouragement along the way. It was one of the best organized races on the course itself that I've participated in. I didn't have any "nearly getting hit by a car" instances.

I didn't get to try any of the post-race fare because I had to jet home, but everyone was raving about the spread. No beer though - so a negative in my book. ;)

I ran into Liana from Run To Munch at the results board and was able to offer her a ride home and get to chat with her a little about her running career.

Once we got home I was finally able to enjoy #myafter of a big glass of chocolate milk.

But, you also know I needed a celebratory beer so I took care of it myself by enjoying a Slumbrew Naked Hopularity!

Also please excuse the really unflattering photo of me

Yummm...

Overall, this was one amazing race day. I still can't believe what my body is now capable and I can't wait to see what the future has in store for me.

Next up ... M.O.M.'s Run 5k on Mother's Day (May 12)!

My First Relay Experience: 26.2 Challenge Team Relay

And I am a race pushover. What does that mean? Well, it seems when a friend brings up a race and I have the time/funds - I sign up.

Plain and simple.

It happened ... again!

Last Wednesday (April 24) while at The Dubliner in Cambridge with friends for the launch of the latest Slumbrew brew, I asked my friend George what he had coming up for races over the weekend.

George and some members of his running club - The Most Informal Running Club Ever or TMIRCE - was taking part in the 26.2 Challenge Team Relay on the Saturday (April 27) in Plymouth.

And they were looking for a 6th member for their team.

**Interest Peaked**

Over the next 24 hours, we got confirmation that they did indeed need a 6th runner ... and BAM! All of a sudden I am signed up for my first relay race.

The 26.2 Challenge Team Relay is set up a little different from other relays I've heard about.

The 26.2 Challenge is a team relay race for you and five of your friends. It's an out-and-back style course, one member is running their butt off while the other teammates party, dance and enjoy the entertainment provided at our transition area.

Each member of your team will run an equal portion of the 26.2 distance. As one runner heads out the next relay member waits for the exchange. The whole event is one big party; live DJ spinning tunes as the runners take off and come in. Vendors line the exchange area offering samples, goods for sale and sage advice.

I picked up two of my running mates for the day - George & Jen - at 7am and we were off to Plymouth. The website told us to be there at least an hour before the race started (which was 9am) so we cruised into the parking lot just before 8am. Perfect.

We claimed a part of the parking lot - like the other teams were doing - and waited for our teammates.

Everyone else on the team was a member of TMIRCE so I was the only newbie. But, it is always nice to meet new runners!

As the members of the group talked about the paces they hoped to attain that day, I just kept hoping I wouldn't be the person that would slow down their overall time. They were hoping to place and I didn't want to ruin the chances. I was 12 days out from the Boston Marathon so I wasn't sure what my legs would produce.

After getting acquainted, picking up bibs and having some pre-race snacks, it was time for our first runner Jen to hit the Starting Line. It was so odd to have the race begin and not be at the Start Line. I was slated to run the 4th out of our 6 legs on the morning.

Thankfully our teammate Erin had a stop watch so she kept it running throughout the race so that we could all be prepared in enough time for our legs of the run.

We were each set to run 1/6 of a marathon or 4.36 miles.

Jen (34:04), Christina (31:27) and George (33:38) all OWNED the course.

As I saw George turning the corner, I was in place at the Start Line - ready to FINALLY kick off my leg of the race. :)

Photo Courtesy of RaceMenu

Quick hug from Alain at Racemenu and I was off.

I didn't know anything about the course except some quick snippets from the teammates that had already run.

I think my legs were just a TAD happy to be out running because I ran the first 3/4 of a mile at a 6:45 min/mile pace.

YEAH - those isn't my normal pace in the least so I immediately told my brain and my legs to sllloowww it on down!

This wasn't a 5k - this was 4+ miles so I couldn't get burnt out too quickly.

Oh I also almost went the wrong way about 1/4 of a mile into the race - yeah, I missed a sign, but thankfully righted my ship quickly.

We had to go around the first water stop twice - once at the beginning of the run and once at the end. There were plenty of volunteers out on the course, which made the odd transition a little easier.

So thank you volunteers!! :) :)

Once through the first mile of the race, it was a clear out and back along the water in Plymouth. The sun was shining and the water looked beautiful.

Shade?

None.

The sun was beaming down on us, but I tried to stay committed and focused on the goal of keeping a sub 8 min/mile pace. That was my only goal of the run.

I could feel my body starting to get tired around the 5k mark so I buckled down. And as my Tedy's Team Running Coach, John, would say "Just Run!"

So that's what I did.

I pushed through the final mile and can say taking my ENERGYBits before the run helped.

I crossed the finish line in 31:18 - HELL YEAH.

I will gladly take the results.

I grabbed a water and rejoined my team to wait out our final two runners.

Our last two runners - Erin (29:57) and Nathan (24:31) - DOMINATED the course. Nathan ended up being the fastest person of the day. YES, his slip said 1/473 - hot DAMN.

So as a group we finished the 26.2 mile course in 3:04:57...

... and headed inside to grab a beer while we waited for the official results to post.

With the $25 entry fee, you had entry to the race, a 26.2 Challenge beer mug and one free Mayflower Brewing Company.

Me, Alain (RaceMenu), Steven (26.2 Challenge Organizer)

I drank my beer, ate a yummy chicken caesar salad and had a great lunch with team as we celebrated...

... our 3rd place finish in our division (running club).

In the end we were the fifth team overall out of 79 teams. Not. Too. Shabby!

I had a GREAT time participating in this relay. It was a change of pace from normal races.

And I will definitely look to do something like this again!

***

Have you participated in a relay race before? If so, what time? Did you love it?

Why I love Cambridge 5k Race Series & Giveaway

Annddddd the winner IS:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

CONGRATS!!

*Keep an eye out as I will be giving away an entry to the next Cambridge 5k race - the VERT Sasquatch Trail Race (July 14)!

---

What makes a good road race?

Since I've run a wide array of races in my short running career, people tend to ask me this all the time.

As well as...

*How do you pick your races?

*What does a race need to have you coming back?

*Do you only run races with beer or race medals at the end?

Wow! It looks like I have a reputation. :P

There are so many variables that go into which races I choose to run and which races I run and decide to never run again. (And there are quite a few of those)

But one of the best race series in the Boston area that I came across in 2012 was the Cambridge 5k series.

Race Director, Eddie O'Connor, is one of the nicest guys I have met.

Over the past year, I'm honored to now call Eddie one of my friends. :)

The Cambridge 5k has grown from a 3-race series in 2012 to a 5-race series in 2013. Woo!

On their website they state that:

We organize unique, handcrafted road races that are super-fun!

And that is the truth.

These races - which include both 5ks and trail races - are well-organized, geared towards runners/walkers of ALL levels, offer great routes and are paired with special local craft beer breweries that sponsor the post-race party!

BEER!

Yup, I knew that is where I would catch your attention. ;)

The Cambridge 5k works with some of my favorite local breweries and you know that means Slumbrew baby!

I Captain all of the Slumbrew teams that take part in the Cambridge 5k races.

Lucky me!!

In 2012, I was lucky enough to run the:

VERT - Sasquatch Trail Run

*You can read my race recap here.

and

Yulefest 5k

*You can read my race recap here.

In January 2013, Eddie asked me to pose with an American Flag to help promote a new race he was putting together to add to the Cambridge 5k series.

How could I say no?

Plus I really wanted to hear what he had up his sleeve. ;)

So I met him at the City Sports in Downtown Crossing and he snapped these shots.

What were they for?

The inaugural Freedom Run 5k, which will be taking place on May 26 in Cambridge, MA.

Kick off the summer at East Cambridge Business Association's hyperpatriotic 5K that honors the men & women who fight to protect us!

Get in the spirit! Run in your most patriotic gear and you could win a great prize at our post-race Freedom Party (13+ to run, 21+ (with ID) for beer).

Registration includes a great shirt & admission to the post-race party in Canal Park featuring craft beer, music & fun awards!

How could you pass this race up?

Well now you don't have to!

Eddie has graciously offered up a FREE race entry to one of my blog readers. YAY!

So if you want to try a 5k, if you want to run with me, if you just like great local beer or if you just want to break out some red/white/blue gear then this is for you.

Here's how to enter:

Giveaway is open from April 29 (Monday) to 10am May 3 (Friday)!

The winner will be announced on Friday!

Can you see your #Proof? Viewsport REVIEW

Euphoria. Heavy Breathing.

Results.

Sense of Accomplishment.

Satisfaction.

Hunger.

These are all emotional or mental proof of a good workout or run, but sometimes you need physical proof ... like sweat!

But, there is a company out there taking sweat to a new level.

ViewSPORT

So who are they? There website says:

ViewSPORT® International Inc. is an innovative fitness apparel line focused on the motivated athlete, sports teams, the military, and others looking to get the most from their fitness and training efforts. When an athlete exercises, the patent-pending ViewSPORT sweat-activated technology reveals a design that is only apparent once perspiration comes in contact with the fabric. The harder the wearer works, the more apparent the image.

After reading this I was intrigued so I contacted ViewSPORT and was mailed a shirt to try. Sweet!

The company offers both men's and women's styles, as well as, both cotton and tech shirts.

Since losing weight, I still don't know how to properly size a shirt when I can't try it on. So to be on the safe side I asked for the Fitfluential Men's Cotton Tee ($26 value).

I am a Fitfluential Ambassador so I figured it was the perfect choice. PLUS, it came in blue/yellow - which are the Boston Marathon colors. It seemed like it was made just for me. ;)

So how does this whole thing work?

When athletes and other fitness-conscious people exercise and begin to sweat, motivational words or images appear on their ViewSPORT athletic-performance attire. The company’s patent-pending “sweat-activated technology” reveals an increasingly clear image the more someone sweats during training. After a workout, when the shirt dries out, the special graphics become invisible again.

Okay, that seems freakin' cool.

On Wednesday, I had a 5-mile run on tap with my best friend and it was going to be high 60s out in Boston so it seemed like the perfect chance to try out the shirt.

Here is how it looked before the run.

I don't normally run in cotton t-shirts, but I made the sacrifice so I could see the cool message revealed. ;)

After tucking the sleeves up under my sports bra, I was ready to rock and roll.

BOY was it hot during our run. I could feel the sweat running down my back so I was really hoping the message would reveal itself loud and clear.

I had my friend Sarah so into this as well that she routinely checked me throughout the run to see the progress. :) When she wasn't happy with how much was revealed, she bumped our speed up. Ummm thanks ViewSPORT for our speedy run. :P

Once we finished stretching, I was ready to see the secret message.

We headed upstairs to find out what my shirt said...

#PROOF

Here is the after:

And the miles I put in, the sweat that showed on my shirt and the pride I felt were all #PROOF of a good workout.

So thanks ViewSPORT for letting me show others the #PROOF I felt inside.

Here is the back before vs. after the run:

Once I cooled down and dried off, the secret message disappeared and the shirt went completely back to the before.

How cool is all that?

Hey, sometimes we need a funky shirt like this to motivate us to get out and move. I say whatever it takes to get us moving.

Now, I think as women we tend to sweat MORE in the lower part of our back - or maybe that is just me - so I think my saying would've appeared sooner or darker if I had worn a women's style ViewSPORT tee since the secret message is located farther down on that style.

I have nothing to back up that theory, but it is a thought I had while running. Maybe some day I will try the women's tee and test my theory, but for now I am pleased with the shirt and the #PROOF I have now.

Time to figure out when I will rock it again...

***

Have you tried out a ViewSPORT t-shirt yet? Would a sweat-induced secret message motivate YOU to move more?

Weekly Workout Wind Up (4/25-5/1/13)

While I am in between training plans - Boston Marathon and my first triathlon - I am winging the workouts. ;) I can't wait to be back on a new training plan soon...  

Thursday, April 25: Rest Day

Friday, April 26: 45 min Walk

Saturday, April 27: 26.2 Marathon Relay Challenge ... my leg was 4.36 miles

Sunday, April 28: 60 Min Spinning

Monday, April 29: 3.1 Mile Run and 45 Min Spinning

Tuesday, April 30: 2.13 Mile Run with Laney

 

Wednesday, May 1: 5-Mile Run

 

REVIEW: Zensah Compression Socks

What is with the compression craze? Why do runners wear compression socks/sleeves? What is the benefit? These are just a few of the compression questions I get on a regular basis.

So when Zensah offered me the chance to review their neon yellow Compression socks, I jumped at the opportunity.

A little about Zensah:

Based on the Italian word "SENZA" meaning to be "without" so too should athletes be "without limits." This mantra inspires us each and every day to create the most cutting edge sports apparel. All of our products are developed using seamless technology, simply meaning they are made without seams.

Zensah was created to help athletes at all levels improve their performance by utilizing innovative sportswear made with cutting edge technology.

I first learned about Zensah and compression socks/sleeves in 2011. I had major back surgery in January 2011 and during recovery researched products that would help with the side effects of the sciatica in my left leg caused by the herniated disc. The Sciatica left my left leg weaker than the right and I wanted to try anything I could that may help.

Since that moment, I started using a pair of Zensah Compression Sleeves during my training runs.

Compression sleeves and socks are designed to enhance blood circulation and oxygen flow before, during or after an athletic performance.

When I got my first pair of Zensah sleeves, I was using just the left sleeve while running to aid my damaged leg.

But as I did more research, I learned they also had benefits during pre-running prep and post-running recovery.

Now I use my Zensah sleeves and socks all the time. ;)

My first pair of sleeves were subtle - a nice black - that could blend in with my running pants.

But no longer - the brighter the better I say!

So I was pysched when Zensah offered up a pair of neon yellow socks.

Can you see me coming?

I took a casual recovery walk the day after the Boston Marathon and I took the Zensah socks along for the trip.

I could feel the aching and soreness in my legs slowly leaving as I wore the socks and kept my legs moving.

A few days after the marathon it was time to once again lace up the sneakers and go for a run. Again, I brought the Zensah socks along for the trip.

I had set out to run just a couple miles to shake the legs out, but wearing the Zensah Compression socks gave me the strength to run farther. My legs felt strong enough to leg out a 4 mile run - double what I had set out to do.

Not a runner or athlete, Zensah Compression socks can still work for you.

Since they are designed up help with blood flow in the legs, I love to wear socks under my pants when on a plane or around the house after a long car ride. They can easily fit under a pair of work pants so there have been times when I have rocked them under some work pants when I know I will be on my feet for an extended period of time during the day.

Or feel free to boldly wear them with whatever outfit you may be wearing. ;)

Hot, right?

The Zensah Compression socks will run you $50, but it is a true investment. They are versatile and improve both athletic performance and general health of your legs.

Plus, who doesn't need a little color in their lives?

So head on over to Zensah and check out the many different colors and patterns they offer for Compression Socks and Sleeves.

***

Have you caught on to the Compression craze? When do you tend to wear them the most?

The 117th Boston Marathon Recap...

... you've all been waiting for! Or not at all, but let me pretend you were all just hitting refresh over and over again on my blog until this very post hit the page. ;)

So I already did my emotional piece about what happened AFTER The Boston Marathon on that fateful Monday, April 15 - which you can read here - so this post is about the race itself.

I wanted to make sure I got one good night of sleep the night before so I hit the hay by 7pm thanks to some Tylenol PM. I needed to make sure I had plenty of time to sleep with this wake-up call waiting for me Monday morning.

How could I not LEAP out of bed with these notifications on my phone?

I was pumped.

I had to make sure I was at Boston Common in enough time to catch the 7am bus to Hopkinton. As we've learned, I'd rather be early than late so the wife and I hit the road by 6:15 so I could stop at Dunkin Donuts before waiting in the bus lines at Boston Common.

I've never been so excited to put on a race outfit as I was that morning. I was honored to proudly wear my Tedy's Team singlet with my Gramma and Grampa - my Stroke Heroes - on the back.

Since it was sooo early in the morning compared to when my wave of the race was actually taking place - 10:40am - I was able to get a Dunkins Iced Coffee and bagel to enjoy before the run.

The wife dropped me off at Boston Common and I got in the endless line to load the bus to Hopkinton. It was an amazing feeling being surrounded by so many amazingly talented runners.

I even made a friend while waiting in line. She was another charity runner, who thankfully had run Boston before so she was able to give me her thoughts behind the race.

We actually were able to board our bus just after 7am. As the bus began to pull away from Boston Common, I realized I left my Garmin at home.

You HAVE to be kidding me. On just the most important race of my life, I forget my watch.

I texted my dad and my wife to get their thoughts. My dad said "well one less distraction." Yeah, not what I wanted to hear.

Thankfully they love me more than I deserve and they got in the car to meet me in Hopkinton.

Since they left just 10-15 minutes after my bus, I knew - okay hoped - they would get to me before we headed to the start line.

The roads in Hopkinton close at 7:30 so they had to park at a nearby office building and take a Marathon Shuttle to the Start area.

I'm lucky - I know.

While they drove to Hopkinton, I tried to calm my nerves.

It was just a sea of bodies when our school bus finally rolled into Athlete's Village.

Thankfully the girl I was with knew how to walk around the crowd and get to the charity meet-ups spots, which were outside the village.

Once we parted ways (I wish I knew her full name so I could check in on her), I took out of Google Maps printout and made my way to the Tedy's Team pre-race house.

It was nice to walk up and see a bunch of familiar faces.

I headed inside and checked in with my teammates. It was great to have a roof over our heads (especially if the weather had been uncooperative), bathrooms and foam rollers.

My dad and wife arrived right on time ... for pics with Tedy Bruschi himself.

After getting final hugs and good luck wishes from my dad and wife, I headed back inside to try and calm the pre-race jitters.

I made the decision to run without headphones/music. I did however keep my headphones in the pocket of my pants JUUUSSTTT in case I needed some motivation.

It was great being surrounded by a great group of teammates, who were thankfully feeling exactly what I was. :P

Photo Courtesy Of Tedy's Team

Before I knew it, it was time to start heading to the Start Line.

Before we left the house, I made sure to take my Energybits.

I walked out the house door and it was time for a group meeting led by Tedy before we headed to the Start Line. Standing in a circle, holding hands with our running coach John and one of my teammates, I just started crying. I, and many others, couldn't hold the emotions in any longer.

We walked as a group to the Start Line area. Tedy opened the corral for us and we headed in as a group. It was great to get one last hug from Zack (Team Director) and Tedy before heading to our corral.

As I made my way through the crowd, I reconnected with some of the team in Corral 5. My running mate Nanci was shooting for the same finish time as I was - around 3:55-3:57 - so it was nice to find a running partner right off the bat. Nanci was wearing a pacing band so we could see if we were starting out too fast or not. It was specially designed for the Boston course. Why didn't I have one myself? Because I'm a slacker. :P

It was finally our time to cross the Start Line and Tedy was at the mic to wish us off.

And as I started my Garmin I once again made the realization that I was freakin' running THE Boston Marathon.

Wow!

The crowd was amazing right off the bat. There were guys offering Corona Lights at Mile Two. Thanks, but we really needed to wait til double digits for that. ;)

As Nanci and I cruised through the first Half of the race, we realized we were about 1-2 minutes ahead of schedule. We tried to reign it in a little since we knew we would need extra gas for Heartbreak Hill.

I was wicked excited to get to Mile 12 because that meant I would finally experience the Wellesley College Scream Tunnel. I had heard so much about it ... and the girls didn't let you down. The girls lined both sides of the street - mainly the right side - with signs in hand and offering up kisses to the runners. I've definitely never seen that before.

Entering Wellesley Center, we saw a group of soldiers running in full gear. I give so much credit to those folks.

As Nanci and I hit the halfway mark, Nanci had to make a pit stop so we parted ways. I hoped in the back of my mind that we would meet up again later in the race, but it didn't happen. :/

I thought about taking out my headphones since I was now alone, but I couldn't. The crowd was constant and empowering.

It was a lifesaver having my name written on the front of my singlet as well as on my arm itself.

Picture from post-race as you can tell by my sunburn :P

I was also got an in with the crowd thanks to my outfit.

The Sparkly Skirt from Team Sparkle was a HIT with the women and girls in the crowd - especially the teens. ;)

The Superman socks were a big crowd pleaser with the young boys especially.

So having some eye-catching running accessories really help with getting crowd encouragement!

It also helped people I actually know spot me in the crowd. One of my Weight Watchers members told me after the race that since I posted my outfit on social media before the race they knew what to look for ... and actually spotted me!

The crowd was carrying me through the run as right heel pain started taking over my thoughts during Miles 15-16. I didn't know what to do. I hadn't experienced pain like that before.

But, there was no way I was going to stop.

So as I approached Mile 17 and Heartbreak Hill, I bore down, dug deep and just ran.

And you know what?

I ran the entire span of Heartbreak Hill. I didn't stop or walk once. One of my goals for the race.

The crowd on Heartbreak was rowdy and having a good time. I wished I could've stopped to have a beer with them. :P

But, the idea of seeing Tedy's Team's Running Coach John at Mile 20 kept me going.

I saw the 20 Mile marker and just ran towards John. I blurted out everything that was going on - the pain in the heel, being scared of what it was, etc.

John gave me some Swedish Fish and told me to just dig deep and finish strong.

Simply put - "just run!"

It seems easy enough.

With that little boost from John, I was off to finish Heartbreak. I never thought I would be so happy to see a Mile marker as I was for Mile 21!

Thank you BC for the reminder! In case I had forgotten that the toughest part of the Boston Marathon was over.

The right heel pain continued, but I had to push on.

I knew the course. We've been running it every Saturday since December 1 - just 5 more miles to go.

My pace had started to slow. I knew it. I could see it on my Garmin and in the text updates from the BAA.

I wasn't happy. But, I wasn't going to let it stop me.

I tweeted when I hit Mile 22.

As the pain in the heel (which occurred every time I pushed off my right foot) continued, I made the decision to stop at each of the remaining medical tents to stretch out the calf as much as I could. It was a suggestion by John to help - so I was willing to try it.

Bravo to the people working the medical tents!! They immediately came to my aid asking if I needed anything.

I walked a tad during Mile 23 and 24. But once I saw the Mile 25 marker...

... I was going to run through WHATEVER pain I felt.

Seeing that sign just reminded me how close I was to the dream - the Finish Line.

And the crowd was AMPED! Many were still milling around from the Red Sox victory in Kenmore Square and they were happy to see us.

They could see the pain and the doubt, but they were there to give whatever they could to us.

(I am tearing up thinking about the energy and love I felt during that stretch)

My friends usually cheered from outside the bar Lower Depths in Kenmore, but as I passed by they weren't there. I was hoping for a familiar face, but at that moment everyone in the crowd sounded like a friend.

As we took that left on to Boylston, I couldn't help but smile. No matter what was happening in my foot - which was the ONLY piece of my body that hurt - I was going to finish this thing. Boylston St is the epitomizes the Marathon.

I caught a glimpse of the Mile 26 marker and tried to make my body go faster. In my mind, I was Kim Smith out there. But, as you can see in the pictures I was just kinda trekking along...

Just after Mile 26, I waved to my dad and wife on my left-hand side and then turned to my right to wave to Tedy and Tedy's Team crew on the second floor of The Lenox Hotel before passing over the Finish Line.

And promptly trying to catch my breath. Not sure why I get so winded after marathons - same thing happened in Savannah in November. But as I walked through the Finish shoot, I found my mom in the crowd on my left. I stopped to chat with her ... when the explosion happened.

Just before the explosion, in the moment when I was catching my breath - I was angry. I officially finished in 4:04:08 for a 9:18 min/mile pace.

Dammit! I really wanted to finish under 4 hours again. If we took out my stop my with coach and the medical tent stops, it would've been under 4.

But, I let that go with what was happening around me.

Again, that experience is recapped here if you need it.

But, as my mom told me to get much-needed water - we were separated. So I grabbed a space blanket and my medal and tried to find my family.

This picture was taken after my family and I were FINALLY reconnected. It felt like hours. This is the smile of 1) Finishing the Marathon and 2) Jubilation of being with my Family again.

We thankfully found a cab and headed home, where I was greeted with gorgeous flowers from my parents. :)

After some much needed family snuggle time in bed with the pups and doing some media interviews with old colleagues from Chicago, it was time to have some celebration/thankful family dinner with my parents.

Enter BBQ and some Sam Adams.

Oh that beer was delicious... :)

My final stats weren't what I wanted ...

... but I will have redemption in 2014!

Overall, the Boston Marathon was like no other race I have ever - and probably will ever - participate in. The crowd, the love, the excitement, the sounds, the smells, and the unity shone through during each and every mile.

Was I happy that of all days a random heel pain had to occur then? No.

But such is the life of a runner right? Not every race will be perfect and you never know how your body will perform on a given day.

So in the end, I am pleased with how I did because I represented myself, my family, my Stroke Heroes, my teammates and my followers to the best of my ability. I also completed my third marathon - not bad for someone that used to weigh in the 230s and not bad for someone who ran their first marathon in 5:59:27.

I gave 110% on that pavement!

But Boston BE READY ... I'm comin' for ya again!