Monday Musings: Another Amazing New England Weekend

Living in New England in the Summer leads to amazing opportunities and glorious scenery. This past weekend highlighted Portland, Maine, where my BFF and her family lives.

I kicked Friday off by attending my weekly Weight Watchers meeting before heading out for a morning run.

I was psyched to test out my newest pair of Asics GT-2000s. Can you see them or are they too subtle? ;)

These sweet beauties were paired with my new obsession - the New Balance Momentum Raceback Tank!

It is light and airy - just how a running tank should be.

After stopping by Sports Authority to pick up GUs and Boy Glide for the wife, it was time for a relaxing walk with my friend Susan and a hunt for the perfect birthday gift for my niece Joanna.

The goal of the gift was to balance something loud and noisy with educational ... and thankfully Target was there to save me! :)

Friday night was perfect: Boboli pizza, Door County Peninsula Winery Sunset Splash wine, Orange is The New Black Season 2 and snuggling in bed with the wife and pups.

Find this wine glass here!

It was a great day of activity and relaxation.

We had to be up early on Saturday to see the dogs off. They were spending the weekend at the Cape with my parents as we headed to Maine.

After bidding adieu to the pups as they gleefully headed out the door with my parents, the wife and I took advantage of the morning to walk to Dunkin Donuts.

I really wanted to hit 10k steps on my Fitbit before getting in the car for Portland, so I jumped on the bike trainer. I know I needed a decent ride in before the half marathon on Sunday so I told myself I would stay on the bike trainer for an hour.

It was an absolute sweatfest, which I actually enjoyed. :) I think the bike is growing on me.

I enjoyed a yummy Weight Watchers smoothie as recovery since I was out of Chocolate Milk. Fail on my part I know.

We stopped by the grocery store to stock up on healthy snacks to bring to the birthday BBQ we were headed to before heading to the highway.

Aannddd traffic!

Oh the downside of living in New England in the summer. :P

While traffic is thoroughly boring, the wife and I enjoyed some Wait Wait Don't Tell Me on the radio and just thought about the fun we would have once we made it to Portland.

We decided to head straight to the Old Port Half Marathon Expo to pick up our bib and swag.

I want to thank the Race Director Erick Boucher for the race entry and swag. I will share my full race recap in a separate post.

The Expo was actually outside on a pier with a band and beer (for sale). The Maine folk know how to throw an Expo party. ;)

Once our swag was collected and our beer wristbands acquired, it was time for a certain 2-year olds birthday party.

Happy to report that Joanna loved the baby laptop and her parents loved the noises it made. :)

It was great to be with friends and this little lady for the afternoon.

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With a 5am wakeup call the next day, we all called it an early night. After watching part of the Harry Potter marathon on ABC Family. Cool kids, I know!

Ugh the alarm on Sunday was just so early. The joys of a 7am start time. Okay I snoozed a couple of times while Tori got ready.

Old Port Half deserves its own post, but here are a few pics to tide you over.

Double-fisting at a young age ... double water that is!

The upside of the 7am start is we were all done, partied and headed back to my friend's house by about 11am. With a pit stop for some post-race Dunkin' Donuts of course.

We had some nice decompression time at my friend's house - showering, icing, eating, baby hugs, etc - before Tori and I packed it up and headed home.

It was a tough decision to head home before 1, but it paid off with a lack of traffic on the highway. #Winning

I had already decided that we would enjoy a lazy afternoon when we got home so that is exactly what we did.

Ordered in lunch/dinner, Orange Is The New Black on TV and snuggling in bed with the wife and pups.

Why yes the weekend pretty much ended as it started ... and I was happy with that!

***

How was your weekend? Did you race?

Face It Friday: Feelin' Good 7/11/14

Livin' La Vida ... balanced! Okay that doesn't really flow like Livin' La Vida Loca, but work with me.

I hit the massive reset button on June 13! I faced the scale and realized I was up 15.8 lbs from the week before I started the temp job (Feb 20).

Not okay! There are plenty of excuses I could throw out there, but the blame lies on me.

It is the most amount of weight I had gained back since hitting goal in January 2012.

But it took that shock to snap me back to reality. To reassess what was working and what wasn't.

So I have gotten back to basics.

I've refocused and am holding myself accountable.

And it has helped 11.8 lbs to be gone. Now the first week of being "back on plan" resulted in a 6+ lb loss, which was mainly bloating and water weight.

***

How did it start?

Getting back into the meeting room!

Sitting my butt back into the green chair has been exactly what I have been looking for. Since becoming a WW leader, I didn't have the time to get to a meeting since I was mainly leading all the convenient times. ;) But now I am making it a priority and it feels nice to put the member hat back on.

It was my Success Story that really sparked that for me. Since I went on and on about my love of meetings.

I got over attending a meeting I used to lead and it's been worth it.

After refocusing the meeting room, it has been tracking.

Novel concept I know. ;0)

Has it been perfect tracking? Absolutely not, but guesstimating - especially on the weekend - is a form of accountability.

My food scale and measuring cups are back out on the counters. Oh portion control!

Especially chips!! I love throwing broken pieces of chips on the food scale to get myself spot on with the serving size. Grams are easy for me to work with than "about 6 chips."

Oh hey Good Health Guidelines! Allowing the WW Healthy Checks to shape my day has made me feel healthier overall.

But at the heart of it all, I had to remind myself that I am worth it as well as my fitness goals. Eating for training and my activity goals has reframed my choices.

Still asking myself that question:

“Will X help me achieve my goal?”

And yes pizza and sangria sometimes do help! ;)

Balance!

So limiting my indulgences to the weekend or a special occasion during the week has actually been easier than I thought. Sometimes climbing back on the wagon is tough, but it has felt easy. You know that means my body and mind were ready for it.

During this time, I felt ashamed of the weight gain, but life happens - which can be an excuse. But it has been a learning experience, there are things I have learned from WW that I must continue to relearn and keep as a priority if I want to have success with weight maintenance. :)

Some people don't have to keep tracking, but this girl needs to. It keeps me accountable and my portion sizes in control.

***

It was funny after indulging on Saturday with the wife in Ogunquit, Maine, I was ready to get back to "normal" on Sunday. I think that is a good sign.

***

How was your week?

Face It Friday ... Bringin' It Back!

Truth Tuesday. Face It Friday.

When I was focused on losing weight, every weigh-in day I would post about the results or just how the week was going. It was that extra accountability I needed ... and allowed me to use some alliteration! ;)

But once I hit goal and then Lifetime - they stopped. Why? Because I wasn't weighing in on the regular any more. Instead of attending my meeting, I was leading it. There was a shift. So away went the posts.

Now I am not necessarily back to weighing every Friday, but I think this can serve as a space to reflect back on my week. Make note of the good and the bad. Face "it" where the "it" is myself rather than the number on the scale.

There is that whole changing with the times thing I mentioned in yesterday's post.

So let's get right to it.

The past two weeks I have been focusing on what helped me get to goal and what works to keep me there. I got back to tracking - because I still can't control portions when I don't own up to them with a point value - and focusing on the Good Health Guidelines.

It has worked. I feel better. The bloating that was going on has gone away and I am seeing more positively.

It's like the design says up above. You feel good when you exercise regularly and when you exercise regularly you eat better... etc! Everything relates to each other.

And it pays off on the scale as well. Adios bloat!

Now this tracking wasn't perfect but I focused on progress. I know I indulge Friday-Sunday - it's life! So I tracked as best I could those days and stayed true to my 28 DPT Monday-Thursday. :)

I also made sure that I focused on getting in the Good Health Guidelines - all of them - Monday-Thursday and as many as possible Friday-Sunday.

And you know what. I went to a BBQ, I had beer, I moved a lot and I lost. I even used all WPs and half of my APs. And you know what? The scale still went down.

So many members are scared to use the WPs and APs, but what is the harm in trying? You earn 'em - use 'em. Weight Watchers gives them to you - use 'em. That's my motto. And if it doesn't work - tweak it.

There is no rhyme or reason to weight loss week in and week out. The body may forget that it should be it's lightest at the moment you step on the scale. So think about how you feel.

Today, I feel happy and healthier than two weeks ago.

That's what matters.

So as I look at myself in the mirror today and Face It, I know I put out my best foot this week. Was every choice spot on? No of course not. But, I paused and thought about the consequences before I ate or drank something.

My question for this past week and future weeks will be:

"Will X help me achieve my goal?"

And you can bet your booty that occasionally I will say: "Will this beer help me achieve my goal?" Hellz to the yeah.

Balance is what I found this week and I will continue to strive for in the future.

Watch out folks ... Dani got her groove back!

***

WIN of the week

Attending and winning my first Flywheel Boston Spin class taught by my Tedy's Team teammate Melinda!

(Note: your first class is FREE so definitely check out a Flywheel near you!)

Race #2 in the Distance Medley: #BAA10k

Bring on the 2014 Distance Medley!

I love The Boston Athletic Association and all races associated with them. For the most part, they are the most well-organized races I participate in.

For those that don't know, the Distance Medley includes the BAA 5k in April (recap),  the 10k in June and the Half Marathon in October. If you complete all three races, you get an extra special medal. Pictured to above on the right. Due to conflicts, I couldn't participate in 2013, but did for the inaugural Distance Medley in 2013. With nothing in my way this year, I signed up immediately in January.

June 22nd brought race #2 of the Medley: the BAA 10k.

The race began at 8am in Boston Common so we left the house just after 7. The wife was kind enough to drop me off so I could eat my wheat toast with peanut butter on the way there.

I was hoping to make it to the race by 7:15 to make the Team Run Disney photo and chat with friends before the race.

Always fun to stand around and chat with these folks! While hanging out, I even bumped into Slumbrew teammate Amy.

Time once again slipped away from me and 10 minutes before the race starts, I realized I hadn't used the port-o-potties. Ahhh! I went to get in line and they were just all too long to wait in. I took a gamble to hold it.

I jogged my way over to the Start corrals. Let me just say WAAYYY less crowded than on the day of the 5k. Thank you for limiting the entrants for the 10k - allowed for more control.

I decided to line up around the 8 min/mile pace, but couldn't find a sign for that. There was an opening around the 7 min/mile pace so I hovered around there so I could jump in when I found a gap.

I happened to come up next to Kate - another Slumbrew teammate. I wish I had taken a photo, but we were too busy talking.

Before I knew it the National Anthem was over and we were shuffling up to the Start Line. I wished Kate good luck and we split ways.

With the sore hamstring and the Rock And Run obstacle run the day before, I wanted to run smart and enjoy myself.

The temperature was reported as 62 degrees, but on the streets it felt warmer for sure. Thankfully we had some shade while running through the streets of Boston towards Boston University at the beginning of the race.

Mile 1: 8:09

As we ran past the start of the Boston University campus - it spans two miles of Commonwealth Avenue - the course started to come back to me. Again I ran it in 2012 so maybe I had blocked out what was coming up for us.

Mile 2: 7:57

This second mile might have been faster than the first as I was trying to escape a woman who had a very odd breathing pattern going on, while talking to herself. I wasn't sure if she was really okay or not. Someone else asked her and she snapped at him. Glad I didn't decide to ask her. But the breathing and talking was getting into my head. I was once again running without headphones for practice. Here was a test. What do you do when the breathing and annoyances around you start playing with your game plan?

On that day - I ran away from them. I sped up to lose her in the crowd.

After making our way around the backside of the first BU dorm, we took the right onto Comm Ave in all its sunny glory. That is right. That part of the course I blocked out? Oh that would be the miles on Comm Ave, where you have zero shade and a whole helluva lot of sun.

Plus a little incline. But there is a great way here to distract yourself. This is where the down and out starts so you have the pleasure of watching the wheelchair and elite athletes come blazing past!

I love this. It is so motivating and inspiring. I will never be as fast as these people, but they make me want to push myself to the best that I can be.

Not a bad photo while I was on the move in the opposite direction.

I was yelling and clapping for them.

I played the game smart and made sure to stop and walk through every water stop.

Mile 3: 8:21

The incline isn't horrible heading up Comm Ave, but it seems to go on forever. But as you push up you see the folks on the left coming towards you so you KNOW there is a downhill coming your way. :)

5k Mark: 26:08 (8:25 min/mile)

After my mid-run selfie, I took the pleasure in scanning the crowd of runners coming towards me for familiar faces. And I saw a ton!! Not sure if runners thought I was just shouting out random names or what, but most of the people I cheered for were too in the zone to wave back. I probably looked like a nutcase. ;)

It is always amazing to see so many friends out dominating the streets of Boston so early on a Sunday morning.

But with the turnaround came a downhill. YAY! Celebrate the downhill. Embrace the downhill.

Mile 4: 8:27

More importantly celebrate the shade, which we finally got once we made it through Kenmore Square heading back to the Commons.

Just before we reached the shade a spectator yelled to me: "Number One costume award today goes to you!" Awww yeah! Sparkle Athletic skirt for the win! ;)

Mile 5: 8:06 8k Mark: 41:38 (8:19 min/mile)

As we pushed towards the Finish, I kept repeating "less than 1 mile over and over." While also forcing myself to relive the Boston Marathon and how I felt on that day when running or rather run/walking down this same stretch. It helped put a little extra pep in my step.

We took a right onto Arlington Street to start our two left turns into the Finish shoot. Just after I took the right, I saw a mom and her son. I heard the mom say: "Look she's a super hero." O.M.G. That lady made my day. WIN for the Wonder Woman socks!!

That totally made me dig deep and pull whatever out I had left.

Mile 6: 8:01

Just after passing the Mile 6 marker, I heard my friend Haley yell for me! Ahh I love extra and unexpected cheers. As we were coming down the shoot, the volunteers were directing us all to the right lane. I couldn't tell why. Then just before the Finish Line I saw the medics working on a man. I tried to send out as many good vibes as I could his way.

Arms up! Finish line crossed! Water me!

But first - medal me.

I was so happy to pick a volunteer that was excited to put the medal around my neck. Her smile was infectious. :)

After grabbing my water, I headed to the Marathon Sports tent so I could get my free BAA 10k bumper sticker. Yeah I am a sucker for those things even if I don't actually stick them anywhere.

I took a few minutes to stretch and compare race stories with some friends before heading to get my Dunkin Donuts fix.

Be Good was actually giving out a free burger to each participant, but I don't eat hamburgers so I passed on the offer. If only the wife was there, she would've gladly eaten it for me. ;) But instead she was on her way to pick me up. I'm spoiled I know.

Overall, the race was well-organized, the water stops seemed plenty stocked with water and the post-race meeting space was spacious. Unfortunately BAA cannot control the weather or the lack of shade on Comm Ave so that is something out of their control and something participants just have to remember when devising their race strategies.

Personally, I was not the biggest fan of my results. I was two minutes slower than when I did the BAA 10k in 2012 and 4 minutes slower than my 10k PR. Grrr... I wanted more. I did have to put it in perspective - I have a sore hammy and I did an obstacle race the day before. But, I also have gotten away from focusing on speed and time recently so maybe I need to. It is a decision I have been going back and forth about - what am I trying to get out of my races? Speed? Fun? Time? Consistency? It's an ongoing discussion in my head in case you are wondering. ;)

But I would recommend the BAA races to everyone. Maybe you will want to join me in October for the BAA Half? Be ready! These races sell out quickly.

Now, the BAA races do not offer post-race beer so I had to go out and find my own. I chose the Pretty Things Meadowlark IPA at Mystic Station. See Pretty Things loves me too??

***

Did you participate in the BAA 10k?

RACE RECAP: Rock And Run Boston

Obstacle courses scare the crap out of me! I have little to no upper body strength so whenever I have the opportunity to sign up for an obstacle run I go for it ... but with a lot of fear!

In July 2013, I completed the Urban RAID Boston obstacle race with these lovely ladies above. I was psyched after that race. We had a great time with lots of laughs and I managed to tackle each and every obstacle on the course. I was worried and shaky on a couple, but I pushed through and did it.

Now they weren't Tough Mudder or Spartan Race type obstacles, but for me they were nerve-wracking.

Flash forward to this past weekend and enter the Rock and Run Boston obstacle 5k at Assembly Row in Somerville.

This was actually put on by the same company that organized Urban RAID Boston.

Introducing Rock and Run, Presented by Radio 92.9! Rock and Run is a brand new event featuring an awesome 5K obstacle race, live music, views of the epic Boston skyline and okay…Beer (21+ only). Don’t miss out on the only race around that features unique challenges, live music checkpoints, urban and water views, and one kickin’ after party featuring a live performance that you won’t want to miss!

Racers can participate in the Rock and Run as a solo artist or grab some buds and start a band. Plus, in addition to the a soon to-be-announced national recording artist at the Finish Line, the Rock and Run will feature three bands along the course and is sure to be unlike anything you’ve competed in before!

When I was offered a complimentary entry for a friend and myself, I couldn't turn it down. The race was literally across the street from my neighborhood and I was ready for the challenge.

(Note: I did receive complimentary entry, but all thoughts are my own!)

Our wave was kicking off at 10:15am on June 21st so we left the house around 9:35 so the wife could stop at Dunkins. She needed some coffee to be the great spectator that she is. :)

We headed over to the pre-race area where Polar Springs and Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars were handing out samples.

The DJs from 92.9 were pumping up the crowd, while Kel and I tried to shake off the pre-race jitters. Remember obstacle course races freak me out!!

Why of course pre-race pictures help squash the nerves!

Plus a little eye black goes a looong way.

There were three waves ahead of ours. They were sending the first groups by gender and age. So 2 waves of guys then 2 waves of ladies before the teams would take off.

It was finally our time! The butterflies were coming out of my stomach and up through my throat. I just tried to focus on how much fun Kel and I would have together and push the fear out of the way. I had made it through all the obstacles the previous year - I would do it this time too.

The countdown started - 10 ... 9 ... 8 ... 7 ... 6 ... 5 ... 4 ... 3 ... 2 ... 1!

GO!

And we were off with our other Females 30-39.

Right out of the gate we saw our cheerleader! I had left my phone with my wife so this would be a race-free of action shots and mid-run selfies, which made me sad. But I didn't know what to expect and didn't want my phone to be injured at all. :P

I regret leaving my phone with the wife now. I could've tucked it into my shorts during the obstacles. Next time.

We started out on the course and got into a little running rhythm. I have done a 5k around Assembly Row before so I am used to the inclines and downhills. We came across our first obstacle - Cone Bar Hurdles, which was hopping or walking over a PVC pipe laid across traffic cones. An easy way to check off the first obstacle.

Once over that, we headed towards the Tractor Tires and Bridge. Kel and I opted to flip the tire together. You flipped it over then back and you could move on to the Bridge. The Bridge had two choices - either pull yourself up the rope like in gym class or up the rope ladder. Kel and I both opted for rope ladder. Once on top of the bridge you had to walk down the slanted wall backwards holding on to a rope. This obstacle froze me during the Urban RAID run so I tried to be rational this time. Thanks volunteer for calming me down. :)

Once over these hurdles, we encountered our first BAND stop. Nice little addition to the course.

After Kel and I conquered the first three obstacles, we came across the first Mile marker. Wow, that happened quickly.

We continued along Assembly Row to the Monkey Bars and Chainlink Crawl. I almost bit it on the Monkey Bars with one to go, but thankfully I took a deep breath and regained the flow. I wanted to say something to the woman behind me who couldn't wait a moment for me to finish and came up behind me when I stopped for a moment. Next time lady give the person in front of you space. It's not like we were all fighting to win the race.

But anyway, the Chainlink Crawl was made of chainlink fences attached to the top of traffic cones. Rock and Run was nice enough to put this crawling obstacle on a grassy part of the course. Much appreciated!

We had a break from the obstacles as we twisted our way through Assembly Row to the waterfront. It was a welcomed breeze and a much-needed water stop. It was hot and sunny so the water was refreshing.

This path along the water is part of my normal running path so I liked the familiarity of that. As we hit the turnaround point of this little out and back, there was the Mile 2 marker to greet us. 2/3 of the way there.... and the next obstacles.

We hit the Cargo Crawl and the Agility Tunnels. The hard part of the Cargo Crawl was my bun getting stuck. I said out loud: "This is built for men especially bald men" and BAM! Out of nowhere came this bald guy buzzing past me. Hello! Not fair. :P

The Agility Tunnel was a quick crawl through a big plastic pip cut in half. Easy peezy.

We had already tackled over two miles and 7 of the 11 obstacles.

The second band - a solo guy - was rocking some country tunes. A little Taylor Swift if memory served me correctly.

With a left hand turn we were on to the 8th obstacle: Slackline. This looked harder than it was. You walked across a wide strap that many use for moving companies, etc - while holding on to a rope above you to help with balance. If you angled your feet, it made the balancing a lot easier. Well that and probably my ripped core from my #plankaday. ;)

Once through the Slackline, we took another run through the Assembly Row shops. It was great to see so many folks out shopping and enjoying their Saturday morning. But since the course wasn't closed, we had the extra joy of bobbing and weaving through the families that had no idea what was going on. :P

We were instructed to meet a volunteer in a green shirt at the base of the parking garage. We were instructed to run up the five floors to the top of the garage where our next obstacle awaited us. It felt like Amazing Race a little.

We jogged up the stairs to reach the garage roof, where we put on a 35 lb fireman oxygen tank. Once we had the tank on we ran across and back on the roof top, where the third band was playing. They even complimented me on my skirt. :)

After dropping the pack, we went got to run back down the five floors to the street. Wow! We were just two obstacles away from the Finish.

We hit the Street and could see the Finish area. We had less than a 1/4 mile to go. As we entered the Finish Area, we spotted the Mile 3 marker.

What stood between us and the Finish? Oh just a Cargo Climb and the Finish Wall.

And just like that it was over. Kel and I finished hand in hand. Woo! I love a good Finish Line.

Now I didn't have any race photos, but the wife is the best and put together a little video of what she saw us accomplish during the race. Check it out!

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You know I finished and headed straight to the Sierra Nevada Beer Garden for my post-race brew.

I had been told each participant got two free beers, but I only had 1 tab on my race bib. Not sure what happened there? I am waiting on clarification from the race organizers. The post-race beer situation was messed up at the Urban RAID Boston race in 2013 too. Not good. I take that seriously. :P

But the crowd looked happy and enjoying the festivities.

I'm so proud of Kel for pushing through this race. I could tell she wasn't happy during points of it, but she didn't give up. She pushed a bad experience on the Monkey Bars behind her and powered through.

We didn't do too shabby in the rankings either.

Overall the race was a fun way to spend a Saturday morning and I love a race close to my house. :) It was well-organized with great volunteers. I wish the shirt was a tech shirt rather than a cotton t-shirt. Especially since folks were paying $65-70 for the race.

I know this was the first year it took place at Assembly Row so I think the organizers will take the feedback from the participants and improve for next year.

I would definitely recommend this course for all fitness levels. It really worked to make everyone feel comfortable and the volunteers at the obstacles were encouraging and ready to lend a helping hand if needed.

So yeah I rocked and ran through Boston Somerville!

***

Did you take part in this inaugural Rock and Run race?

Upcoming #Boston Area Races

Looking for a local 5k or obstacle course race in the Somerville or Cambridge area? Check out these two June races! ***

It's time to represent my hometown of Somerville for the inaugural Rock and Run Boston on June 21.

Yes I know the title says Boston, but technically it is Somerville - hey on a day with zero traffic I hit Fenway in about 7 minutes from my house. So close enough... :P

Introducing Rock and Run, Presented by Radio 92.9! Rock and Run is a brand new event featuring an awesome 5K obstacle race, live music, views of the epic Boston skyline and okay…Beer (21+ only). Don’t miss out on the only race around that features unique challenges, live music checkpoints, urban and water views, and one kickin’ after party featuring a live performance that you won’t want to miss!

Racers can participate in the Rock and Run as a solo artist or grab some buds and start a band. Plus, in addition to the a soon to-be-announced national recording artist at the Finish Line, the Rock and Run will feature three bands along the course and is sure to be unlike anything you’ve competed in before!

This 5k obstacle run is hitting the Assembly Row area on June 21 and will feature a post-race Sponsor Village, filled with activations, samples, demos, live music and Sierra Nevada Beer Garden (21+ only).

Each participant receives entry to the obstacle race, a shirt and two free beer tickets.

Care to join my girl Kelly and I at the race? Then register here!

***

Want to run through the historic Harvard Square in Cambridge? Then check out the Tory Row 5k on Sunday June 29th.

Race Director Josh put it best:

"It is a fun event for all - serious racing if you want it… or just a nice stroll through historic Cambridge. Afterwards plenty of adult beverages from local breweries and some good tunes. There is also a really fun Team Event which I think will make the race - friends, families, colleagues can be on your crew."

Can't pass up a race with fun, tunes and beer, right?

The Tory Row 5K isn't just a race, it's a full weekend of festivities. Your $40.00 registration fee guarantees you a spot in the race as well as admission to the pre- and post-race parties.

Pre-race number pick-up party is Friday June 27 : "Come pick up your number, meet other runners, and have a beer and snacks, on us! Tory Row will be closed to the public during The Pickup Party, so bring your teammates if you have them (the more the merrier!). Team members may also pick up full team packets."

The Race is Sunday June 29: "The whistle blows at 9:30 a.m. sharp, Sunday, June 29, on Church Street in Harvard Square. The race will be held rain or shine, so plan accordingly."

The Row Party (aka after-party): "Join us for The Row Party immediately following the race, with beverages provided by some of the best local breweries and light fare provided by yours truly. Your bib is your ticket. We'll be presenting laurel crowns to the overall make and female winners, as well as prizes to our top finishers, top teams and our first ever team spirit award. We hope you'll come out and join us!"

Your registration fee also includes a Tory Row 5K t-shirt and a drawstring backpack, as well as complimentary beverages and snacks at the Pickup Party and the Row Party.

The race also benefits the Cambridge Camping Association.

All of this for $40 sign me up ... if I wasn't going to be out of town.

But for you all I offer a 10% discount by using code: tr5kfiend10

***

Happy Running Friends!

Celebrating Mother's Day at M.O.M.'s Run

The M.O.M.'s Run in Somerville has quickly risen to one of my favorite local races.

I love it so much I have run it each of the last three years.

I love what the race stands for:

In November 2002 the Pilotte family lost our mother and grandmother to cancer, and for the past twelve years, we have hosted the Annual Mary O’Brien Memorial 5K for Cancer, known as M.O.M.’s RUN, held on Mother’s Day in her honor. Mary (Pilotte) O’Brien was a longtime Somerville resident and was involved in many local organizations throughout her life dedicating much of her time to helping others.

We continue Mary’s legacy by making this effort to help others and hopefully save lives. A full 100% of the funds raised by M.O.M.’s Run benefits the Claudia Adams Barr Program in Innovative Basic Cancer Research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, widely recognized as one of the largest and most successful programs of its kind. Not only does the event enforce the need for supporting cancer research, it brings family and friends together to promote awareness for the health and wellness benefits of walking and running.

The family has raised over $85,000 from the first 11 M.O.M.'s Runs.

This is another very family focused race. There is a .1 mile kids run (ages 9 and under) prior to the 5k. Which might be the cutest thing I ever watch. I seriously need these kids to teach me proper running form.

Due to road restrictions and timing, the walkers head out at 9:45 and the runners at 10:00. It is such a great inclusive vibe. All are truly welcome.

Plus I think it is the only 5k around that has Dunkins coffee and donuts and local fresh bread available right before the race. Mmmm carbs!

We lined up at 10am and got ready to rock.

The sun was shining bright and the humidity was picking up. I know the course has a lot of inclines so I tried to take that into account while devising my race strategy. I wasn't feeling confident so I wasn't sure what pace I would produce.

Since it is the same course every year, I at least knew when I would be able to enjoy the downhills.

It is a lovely Sunday morning tour of Somerville - passing the hospital, high school and City Hall.

Mile 1: 7:56

There was some clogging at the beginning of the run due to folks not lining up properly. I am all for people starting where they are comfortable, but it is usually by pace for the safety of the runners and walkers.

I was almost tripped a few times and I know a friend who did wipe out at the beginning due to being tripped by a fellow participant.

It comes with being in a local race, but something people should be aware of when lining up at the Start.

The race began on a slow gradual incline, but the legs felt strong. Thank you Spinning!

I turned my watch upside down so I wouldn't worry about pace and focus on taking in the scenery and the experience.

Oh but first let me take a selfie!

Mile 2: 7:45

The great thing about the walkers heading out first is you have a constant stream of cheerleaders! And they are moving right along with you. :) For safety, the runners are on one part of the street and the walkers are on the sidewalk.

Just before hitting the much-needed downhill, there was a water stop. Again I don't normally stop, but with the sun beating down I opted for hydration over time.

But don't let that downhill fool you, once it ends the next steady incline begins. It is a battle, but the thing to remember is you get to finish strong on a downhill.

As I was making my way - putting just one foot in front of the other - I came across an older gentleman. His stride was strong, but his breathing was labored. I was worried, but a friend of his came up alongside him. He was 80-plus years old and just out there dominating. He said that is how his breathing always is so I stopped worrying and just listened. The older man talked about how many races he has done and how strong he felt. Ah-may-zing! It put a little extra something in my step. Especially since I am a good 50 years his junior.

Mile 3: 7:49

I tried to leave a little in the tank so I could dominate the final stretch into the Finish. Plus, I knew an iced-cold Harpoon IPA waiting for me at the Finish.

The volunteers were handing out carnations at the Finish to all moms. Such a sweet touch.

I took a water, thanked the volunteers and headed straight to the beer.

After securing my delicious beer, I headed back to the course to cheer on the other participants and my wife. I love that the post-race party happens in a parking lot right next to the Finish shoot so you can cheer and party at the same time.

I chatted with my friend and fellow Slumbrew ambassador Frank while I waited. Between the two of us, we have shed over 150 lbs thanks to Weight Watchers.

Now I mentioned the awesome pre-race food, but the post-race can't be beat!!

All the local restaurants in Davis Square donate delicious food: Redbone's BBQ, Mike's Pizza, JP Lick's Ice Cream and more.

The wife rocked one of her first 5ks back from her ACL replacement and was ready to celebrate. We hung around to chat with friends and pretend to dance to the DJ's tunes.

I was able to easily enjoy the festivities and the race knowing that my stuff was secured in the Blue Trailer Mobile Lockers.

Molly and her crew do a great job. For just $5 you can rent one of these lockers, leave all your valuables inside and someone will watch it the entire race. Calms my nerves and I don't have to run with my car keys in my hand or pocket.

While the race is about running, food and family, we can't forget the reasons why we participate and help to raise money. The race directors help remind you with the touching memorial wall.

Hands down this is one of my favorite local races. The race directors do a wonderful job making everyone feel special, the volunteers are encouraging and the post-race spread - both food and beer - are rarely topped. Plus, it is cool to see so many families spending Mother's Day getting active or out supporting the mom they love so much.

Overall, I wasn't happy with my performance. I keep getting slower at this race somehow, but I had to remind myself. The first 5k I ever did was 38:21. How can I truly be angry with a 24:14? How? I can't. So I say that and move on because every race won't be a PR!

I'm Walkin' On Sunshine...

WOO OOO!! Okay not really walkin' on sunshine since that would be hot and burn my feet. But it would be quite a feat...

I am working on being a ray of sunshine, but not have it feel forced.

Someone at work today said how calmly I was taking the job ending. Well clearly she doesn't live in my head. :P

But what I realized this weekend was that being mopey about the job situation won't make a new job appear. Thankfully my wife is still employed so it isn't like I am being thrown on the street. I have a lot of things to be thankful for.

So while I was having one kick ass awesome weekend, I focused on that.

The HERE and NOW.

I am a worrier by nature. I can't turn it off. But I can control how much I allow it to dictate my mood.

I have my health. I have amazing friends. I have a great wife and two pups. I have this little blog of mine.

There is too much to celebrate to be worried.

Now that isn't saying I am getting rid of worrying all together. I am still very much a worry wart over bills, etc  - but I need to work more on the NOW.

And I set that goal last night before bed.

Can I tell you something?

It already is paying off in the mood department.

THAT could still be lingering awesomeness from this weekend. It was a jam-packed couple days, but if it is an indicator of things to come - then this summer is going to ROCK!

On Friday, I attempted the Assembly Row media event. Assembly Row is a new shopping center across the street from my house in Somerville - but it is so much more.

There are outlet shops, restaurants, and activities! They are going to have free yoga by the water, a boot camp once a week and a running club out of the Nike store (still waiting on more details for that).

The event had food samples from some of the restaurants that will be at Assembly Row - Fuji Sushi, Tony C's Sports Bar/Grill, Earl's and Papagayo.

Trying a sushi roll with EEL from Fuji

Let's just say my wife was jealous of this picky eater being at a food sampling event. ;)

They even had a game where you had to guess the prices of the three outfits being displayed. Keeping in mind these are outlet stores. I haven't heard the winning prices yet, but my guess is I was WAY off. I really wanted to win the PUMA outfit too (#2).

I stopped at the brand-new Papagayo to sample their Sangria and oohh boy it was tasty!

After a brief walk home (I can get use to that), it was a low-key evening in bed with the family.

On Saturday I let myself sleep in - until 8am - then headed out for a quick run to pick my car up from the mechanic.

The wife and I got started on a laundry list of errands we had to run to get ready for a BBQ at our house the following day.

But I HAD to get in a training ride so I brought the wife along with me for a little bike afternoon date. I'm glad she bought a bike so we can start doing more things like this. We must take advantage of the summer months! We endure such crappy Boston winters for them. :P

Saturday Night we lived it up - by cleaning. I know I know. Try to hold back your jealousy if you can.

Sunday was going to be fun from the get go! Sunday kicked off with the Cambridge 5k Freedom Run 5k with Team Slumbrew Happy Soles.

I was definitely happy with my time as I am nursing a very painful left hamstring thing/injury/annoyance and it was much hotter out than any of us expected.

I wish I had noticed the photog, but since I was coming straight into the Finish Line all I could think about was cheering on the rest of the team and ... BEER!

Aren't we one awesome looking team?

I had a great little post-race celebration with this fine group before heading home for the BBQ with a couple of college friends and their kids.

After they left we needed to get the dogs some exercise so we took a family walk along the Mystic River and over to Assembly Row.

The dogs even did a little swimming. Okay Molly did some sitting in the water.

This was all followed by a CRASH. I was ready to just lay down and enjoy some TV before the final week of work.

But this weekend involved so much love, laughing and smiling.

How could I be sad when I have all of that in my life?

Craicfest 5k: Cambridge, Costumes and Craft Beer

Giving me a holiday race = giving me the opportunity to not be the ONLY person dressed up! Ha! It is true that I rock a Sparkle Athletic skirt and fun knee-high socks for any run or race, but there is something about a holiday or Disney race that makes me step my game up.

Well the Craicfest 5k on March 16th provided the opportunity for me to turn up the flair ... and break out as much green as possible! ;)

The inaugural Craicfest 5k was put on by Cambridge 5k and Race Director Eddie O.

Selfie with the Race Director Eddie

It was the first in a six-race series for 2014.

If there is one thing that sets Cambridge 5k races away from the rest (besides amazing local craft beer at the Finish - the obvious), it would be the uber comfortable race t-shirts. I LIVE in my Cambridge 5k series tees.

Now as many of you know I am training for an April marathon, which mean the day before Craicfest would be a long run ... 17.2 miles to be exact. So on the day of the race I had NO idea what my legs would have left in the tank.

As always, I was ready to have a fun time with my Team Slumbrew Happy Soles running mates and watch some great dancing at the post-race dance-off. (Oh yeah, Cambridge 5k races always feature a pretty entertaining post-race dance off!)

I was hoping for a pretty March morning in Boston, but instead got a bone-chilling windy mess of a morning. I can say it was rain and snow free. Ummm silver lining?

So on went the layers!

Kim is also training for Boston and had run 18 miles the day before

I tend to travel light to races (read as: skip bag check) - especially ones that are just a 10 minute drive from my house - so I was actually able to sleep in a little for the 9:30am start. Plus, I wanted to limit my "standing around" time as much as possible pre-race.

Nice to finally meet Danielle - a fellow Boston area blogger & Weight Watchers friend

Team Slumbrew met near where the post-race pouring station would be and caught up. It is crazy to think I have known some of these folks for almost two years - all thanks to our favorite Somerville brewery and running! :)

Just before 9:30 we all headed into the starting area to get the party started. The Start area was a little sunnier - aka about 2 degrees warmer - so I soaked it in.

With so much flair on, I wasn't sure how conducive to running it would really be. I couldn't pass up the extra boa from Amy pre-race.

After chatting it up with familiar faces around me - yes one of my favorite part of local races - the horn went off.

George & I couldn't contain our excitement

Since I was too distracted talking - shocker :P - I wasn't totally ready to run. But I quickly hit Start on the Garmin and I was off.

I immediately had to have a discussion with myself.

"Self, it is OKAY to be passed. You are not here to PR. You are here to have fun. You cannot PR every race. Are you listening to me? Hello! Oh shiny thing. FOCUS! Just run your race. Then you can have a beer. Okay? Okay!"

And yes that is how it really happened. Your welcome for a glimpse of the crazy that goes on in my head during a run ... and this was only in the first 0.1 mile. Imagine what happened during the Dopey Challenge. ;)

But I digress...

The sun was shining which put Cambridge and Boston in a gorgeous light as we were running. The course ran along the Cambridge Side Galleria Mall and over the Gilmore Bridge. Now this Bridge is really the continuation of Memorial Drive (aka a highway type road that I am using to driving on not running on). I geek out over things like that. As we took a right on the off ramp, I could see the Paul Revere Park in our future. I have never actually run in the park so it was great to see a new part of Cambridge. The paths were clean, windy and wide enough that I didn't feel smooshed by other runners (this may be because I wasn't in the heavy traffic pace of the run).

As we ran through the park, we approached the gorgeous Zakim Bridge. I had to stop and snap a couple photos.

Beautiful

Well enough of the scenery, time for an in-race selfie.

Never attractive, but always fun!

I was wicked happy to be seeing about a 7:35-7:50 min/mile pace. As I said, my legs had gone quite a distance the day before.

Just after the photos were taken, we headed up and over the Northpoint Pedestrian Bridge ... which is where this gem of a photo was snapped.

It really does embody my run that day!

Once over the bridge, we did some more weaving and winding through the Northpoint Park. It was nice to be away from the traffic. Many times during local races you are dodging cars, etc - not during this one! Thanks Eddie.

I was starting to get a little tired with about 0.5 mile to go so I started targeting folks in front of me and try picking them off. Now I didn't know if I would actually do it or not, but I needed something to focus on.

And you know what it worked! I passed about 4-5 folks coming down the stretch.

The Finish Line photo definitely isn't pretty, but it was how I was feeling. happy to be clicking Stop on the Garmin.

I immediately turned around to start cheering on my teammates and any other familiar faces I saw. Really I was cheering for everyone with special shouts for folks I recognized.

You know not everyone has someone at the Finish Line, but everyone deserves the cheers!! I'm happy to provide them!

Once the cold stated setting in, it was time to mosey on over to the post-race party and collect a much-needed Slumbrew.

How about that? I will take it. I got 3.2 miles on my Garmin for a 7:35 min/mile pace. But hey, no reason to battle over actual distance... unless he had added an extra 0.5 mile! :P

The wind on the course was BRUTAL! At times I thought I was running in place. (Read: like I was stuck on a treadmill)

With the work done, it was celebration time...

Slumbrew Ladies

It would've been nice to have warmer temps, but what can you do. We all huddled in the sun as much as possible.

Part of the Slumbrew Happy Soles

As Slumbrew Team Captain, I had the honor to hand out the fun beer gift from our fearless leaders - the Slumbrew founders Caitlin and Jeff.

How cute?

 Now Team Slumbrew Happy Soles tagline is "First to the Finish Beer Line" because we are there for fun, memories and good beer. That being said - we have always wanted to place in the Team category.

And you know what ... we finally did! 3rd place in the Team division! Woo!

Drinking out of the trophy with Caitlin

Despite the chill, it was a fun morning. Eddie does a great job of creating a fun race atmosphere where all are welcome. Plus, the post-race festivites are like no other - 4 local breweries pouring delicious beer, laughs, pictures and a dance off.

What more can you ask for on a Sunday morning?

***

Did you participate in a St. Patrick's Day race?

Gone For A Run Makes Drinking Beer And Wine A Little More Runtastic + Giveaway!

Annddddd the winner IS:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

***

On most Friday nights, you can find me sitting in bed, catching up on blogging and asleep by 8pm. Does this sound familiar? Are you getting flashes of your own Friday or Saturday nights.

If you don't want to admit it, that's fine. I won't out you. :P But I understand. For most of my Saturday mornings are taken up by long runs or races around the country.

Again, sound familiar?

<<insert silent nod with fit bump>>

On those Friday nights, I like to relax the nerves of the long run or race with a little extra carbo-loading ... aka BEER!

My Friday night before the Black Cat 20-Miler :)

That's right. I rarely go the night before a long run or race without a beer or glass of wine ... or two! It depends if it is a race-cation or not.  ;)

One Friday night as I was wasting some time on the interwebs, I stumbled upon a section of Gone For A Run's website that I hadn't seen before.

Drinkware!

I KNOW! I had no idea either. I buy all of my bib holders from Gone For A Run, but I haven't spent serious time exploring their website.

So after perusing the site and connecting with Gone For A Run on social media, I was given the opportunity to test out some of their amazing drinkware.

Then came the hard part ... choosing which glasses to try. Ahh I wanted ALL of them. But I finally decided one one of each.

Beer Glass

Wine Glass

I should've filled the wine glass all the way to the top for the pic, but it is against my religion to pour wine back in a bottle. ;) It says 5k, 10k, Half and Full.

If you want to check out more of the beer glasses/steins and wine glasses, head on over here. The possibilities seem endless.

These glasses have really perked up my pre or post race adult beverage. I have drank wine the night before my last half marathon (1:44:30) and my last marathon (3:58:49) PRs. So I think I will stick with it. ;)

Now you may be wondering, Dani how can I get my own amazing glassware.

Well, here's how to enter YOUR chance to win a $20 gift card to Gone For A Run so you can pick your own:

The giveaway will run from Monday March 3 (7am ET) through Monday March 10 (7am ET)!

The winner will be selected and announced on Monday!