Leaving my comfort zone… one mile at a time.
Leaving my comfort zone ... one mile at a time.
Nervous. Worried. Excited. Psyched. Ready. Underprepared. Lucky. Optimistic.
Those are the emotions I feel before many of my races, but triathlons in particular. No matter how many times I do it, I freak myself out the night before that I won't survive it.
I registered for the Cohasset Triathlon because a bunch of my ZOOM teammates were doing it and they had a discount code. ;)
Read MoreTired of your hum drum gym classes?
Looking for an energizing workout that feels like a dance party on a bike?
Need a new addiction?
If you answered yes to any or all of these questions then it's time for you to try out Velo City Spin Studio!
Read MoreI HATE being underprepared/underplanned for anything in my life: work, races, vacations, etc.
So you can only imagine the level of fear and self-doubt that lay over my head this past week like the little rain cloud that used to cover over Eeyore in Winnie the Pooh.
What was causing this cloud of self-doubt? Lack of training for the Max Performance Triathlons Escape The Cape Sprint Tri.
Read More... freakin' out!
You'd think having done a few of these before the nerves would settle even a tad.
Well not at all!
Read MoreHappy Thirsty Thursday!!! Oh wait... wrong post!! ;) Haha. Oh I slay me.
Well with a weigh-in tomorrow morning and a night of personal coaching calls for Weight Watchers I will not be taking part in an adult Thirsty Thursday. So pass me the Dunks and water! :)
Let's get to the fun...
***
1) Here a few discount codes for some of the races I love the most!
Save $12 on registration for the two triathlons that I will be participating in!!
Distance: 1/3 Mile Swim, 10 Mile Bike, 3.1 Mile Run
Use code: WOMSESCAPE15 (expires May 2)
Distance: 1/4 Mile Swim, 10 Mile Bike, 3.1 Mile Run Use code: WOMST915 (expires June 1)
Race has a Half Marathon and 10k option and takes place September 26.
Use my discount code DANI15 for 10% off.
***
2) Have you taken part in the #RunningMakesMeFEEL campaign yet?
Newton Running is partnering with Timex to ask runners nationwide to express how running makes them feel by spelling out words with their run routes, launching a first-ever initiative on this scale.
Inspired by Newton’s new feel Campaign and an emerging trend among runners, The Run It, FEEL It, Spell It Challenge will encourage runners to track their run routes using GPS devices.
I finally tested out my new Timex watch yesterday! Can you tell what #RunningMakesMeFEEL? ;)
Runners will then submit GPS map screen grabs – and the words therein – through Twitter and Instagram using the hashtags #RunningMakesMeFeel and #promo to win prizes including:
The Run It, FEEL It, Spell It Challenge runs through May 1. The challenge is open to all runners and running enthusiasts in the U.S. To learn more about The Run It, FEEL It, Spell It Challenge visit Newton Running. Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
***
3) Have you heard about the latest partnership?? Sparkly Soul will now be sold at Athleta stores and online (12 specific colors)! Woo! Two of my favorite brands partnering together.
To celebrate this sparkly union, Sparkly Soul is celebrating with 12 days of giveaways - #12DaysOfAthleta - and today is Day 2! Head over to twitter, follow Sparkly Soul, use hashtag #SparklyAthleta and get in on the fun.
***
Have a happy Friday Eve! ;0)
I dipped my toe into the world of triathlons in August 2013. I remember feeling 100% out of place at the first Sprint tri I did. There were some other newbies there, but for the most part it was Elite athletes... like actual US Olympic team members. Then there was me. The girl hoping to just survive and not fall off during the bike portion.
It wasn't really the welcome I wanted into the triathlon world. Since then I've been more careful when choosing which triathlons I take part in.
It was in 2014 that I found the Max Out Race Series and I felt at home.
I competed in the Buzzards Bay Sprint Tri in September 2014. It was an awesome experience. Not only was the race flat and fast, but it was super welcoming to participants of all levels. It was actually the week after my first Half Ironman and it was cool to see so many folks from that race at the Buzzards Bay tri as well.
What sets Max Out Race Series apart from other race series?
^ Excellent Goodie Bags - with comfy sublimated tech shirts (that you can actually train in :), logo race belts, transition towels and water bottles waiting for you at the finish line!
^ Chip Timing - Live Results posted on site & online so your family can track you while at home. Results posted to your social media outlets. Plus, we have searchable Results online so you can keep tabs on your competitors.
^ Post-race Food Festival - complimentary feast for all triathletes; hey, you’ve earned it (delicious offerings such as pulled pork, veggie burgers, salad, grilled chicken rice/beans, coleslaw, oven fired pizza and more!)
^ Commemorative Water Bottles - waiting for you at the finish line, emblazoned with the race logo – you’ll want to hang onto to this one – it’s made by the experts at Specialized.
^ Certified Bike Mechanic (on site) - support for pre-race, on-course and post-race needs, courtesy of Spark Bike Run Sports in East Taunton, MA.
^ Inspiration Station - all supplies are provided for a family member or friend to create a fun sign to help you notice them and get inspired at the same time!
^ Charity Benefits - Max partnered with some great organizations, including the Alzheimer’s Association, Water.org and other local charities.
^ Sponsor Giveaways - e.g. Xterra wetsuits, bike trainers, sunglasses, oh….did you hear about our Bike Giveaway?!
***
So it's my pleasure to announce that I am partnering up with Max Out Race Series for the 2015 season and YOU win. How? By being able to save $12 on registration for the two triathlons that I will be participating in!!
Distance: 1/3 Mile Swim, 10 Mile Bike, 3.1 Mile Run
Use code: WOMSESCAPE15 (expires May 2)
***
Distance: 1/4 Mile Swim, 10 Mile Bike, 3.1 Mile Run
Do you have race bibs taking up space in your drawers or cast around the house? Are you not sure what to do with those pretty little pieces of memories? Are you wondering how to keep hold of those race wristbands needed for medal pick-up, post-race beer or VIP access? I've got the answer for you!
Well Gone For A Run has your back... and mine!
I've been seriously collecting my race bibs since I fell back in love with running in 2011 after having back surgery for a herniated disc.
I keep all of my bibs and medals as reminders of:
* how much stronger I am than I think
* the amazing memories created during each and every race. I can look at a bib or medal and be instantly transformed back to the race course and all feelings attached to it
* the honor I have to compete in these awesome races
* my health
* my determination
Now I had all the bibs, but had no idea what do with them until I came across Gone For A Run's BibFOLIOS.
So what is a BibFOLIO (retail $39.99)?
It's a race bib holder you can display on a coffee table, desk or bookcase.
The BibFOLIO is made from hand-finished wood and printed using our proprietary high resolution printing process. The twist cable rings easily unscrew as you add your race bibs. Simply slip the holes on the top of your race bib through the rings to add your bibs. You worked hard for those race bibs and they should have a BibFOLIO - a special place to be kept, shared and remembered.
For my BibFOLIOs, I pay the extra money for the vinyl protector sheets.
The vinyl protector sheets have little pockets so you can slide the bib in to keep it nicely preserved.
Plus since it has a little pocket, you can store race momentos in there as well - like my Dopey Challenge wristbands!
Since I am a little Type A ;) I use the gray area at the top of the vinyl sheets to jot down notes about that race: Date, Name, Finish Time, PR or not, etc.
If I wanted to get wicked detailed, I could purchase the race RECAP or STAT inserts for the BibFOLIO as well, but the gray area treats me just fine so far!
If you want to display your BibFOLIOs up right on a table or bureau, you can order a BibFOLIO stand for $8.
Thankfully my bookcase type thing (technical right?) is working just fine so far! :)
If you are worried you have too many race bibs for the BibFOLIO, think again. I have my fair share of bibs and they have fit easily in the BibFOLIOs so far.
Plus 52 races in 2014!
But there are 3 inch expansion rings ($3.99) available for purchase to help you out.
***
If you are ready to proudly display your race bibs, head on over to the Gone For A Run BibFOLIO site and check out the dozens available: rustic, quote, photo, engraved, dry erase, personalized and so many more.
So what are you waiting for... buy yours today! :)
January 1 - 1st Run 5k - 23:43 (7:39 min/mile pace) - RECAP
January 9 - Disney Family Fun Run 5k - 32:05 (10:21 min/mile pace) - RECAP
January 10 - Walt Disney World 10k - 1:05:40 (10:35 min/mile pace) - RECAP
January 11 - Walt Disney World Half Marathon - 2:22:31 (10:53 min/mile pace) - RECAP
January 12 - Walt Disney World Marathon - 4:45:57 (10:55 min/mile pace) - RECAP
***
February 2 - Rock 'n' Roll New Orleans Half Marathon - 1:55:43 (8:50 min/mile pace) - RECAP
February 14 - Stop Stroke Shuffle 5k *Virtual* - 26:18 (8:29 min/mile pace) - RECAP
***
March 1 - Black Cat 20-Miler - 2:57:59 (8:54 min/mile pace) - RECAP
March 16 - Craicfest 5k - 24:17 (7:49 min/mile pace) - RECAP
***
April 19 - BAA 5k - 25:08 (8:06 min/mile pace) - RECAP
April 21 - 118th Boston Marathon - 5:31:18 (12:39 min/mile pace) - RECAP
April 26 - Rock 'n' Roll Nashville Marathon - 4:42:12 (10:46 min/mile pace) - RECAP
***
May 11 - M.O.M.'s Run 5k - 24:14 (7:48 min/mile pace) - RECAP
May 13 - Strides Against Stroke 5k *Virtual* - 26:16 (8:28 min/mile pace) - RECAP
May 18 - 18th Annual Mystic River Herring Run & Paddle 5k - 24:39 (7:57 min/mile pace) - RECAP
May 25 - Boston's Run To Remember Half Marathon - 1:50:58 (8:28 min/mile pace) - RECAP
May 29 - Boston 5k Summer Series Race #1 - 23:29 (7:34 min/mile pace) - RECAP
***
June 1 - Freedom Run 5k - 23:55 (7:43 min/mile pace) - RECAP
June 7 - Runner's World 5k - 28:28 (9:11 min/mile pace) - RECAP
June 7 - Runner's World 10k - 58:49 (9:29 min/mile pace) - RECAP
June 8 - Runner's World Heartbreak Hill Half Marathon - 2:08:52 (9:50 min/mile pace) - RECAP
June 21 - Rock and Run Boston (Obstacle 5k) - 45:32 (14:38 min/mile pace) - RECAP
June 22 - BAA 10k - 51:37 (8:19 min/mile pace) - RECAP
June 30 - Summer Sizzler *Virtual* 5k - 25:21 (8:10 min/mile pace) - RECAP
***
July 3 - Finish At The 50 (10k for me) - 53:01 (8:32 min/mile pace) - RECAP
July 13 - Shipyard Old Port Half Marathon - 1:57:44 (8:59 min/mile pace) - RECAP
July 17 - Boston 5k Summer Series Race #3 - 24:19 (7:50 min/mile pace) - RECAP
July 20 - Iron GirlWebster Sprint Triathlon - 1:26:54 - RECAP
July 30 - F.A.S.T. (Fighting Against Stroke Together) *Virtual* 5k -27:44 (8:57 min/mile pace) - RECAP
***
August 14 - Boston 5k Summer Series Race #4 - 24:57 (8:03 min/mile pace) - RECAP
August 17 - Falmouth Road Race (7 miles) -1:00:49 (8:41 min/mile pace) - RECAP
August 24 - Race To The Row 5k - 23:46 (7:39 min/mile pace) - RECAP
***
September 4 - Boston 5k Summer Series Race #5 - 22:39 (7:18 min/mile) - RECAP
September 7 - Pumpkinman Half Ironman - 6:06:03 - RECAP
September 13 - Big Bad Wolf 5 Mile Trail Race - 41:41 (8:21 min/mile pace) - RECAP
September 14 - Buzzards Bay Sprint Triathlon - 1:27:01.3 - RECAP
September 17 - The Dani Ryan Holmes-Kirk 3rd Annual 30th Birthday 5k Run-Walk Ramble *VIRTUAL* - 26:03 (8:24 min/mile pace) - RECAP
September 27 - ZOOMA Women's Half Marathon (Cape Cod) - 1:54:17 (8:43 min/mile pace) - RECAP
***
October 5 - Oktoberfest 5k - 24:16 (7:49 min/mile pace) - RECAP
October 12 - BAA Half Marathon - 1:52:58 (8:37 min/mile pace) - RECAP
October 18 - Runner's World 5k - 30:29 (9:50 min/mile pace) - RECAP
October 18- Runner's World 10k - 1:01:11 (9:52 min/mile pace) - RECAP
October 19 - Runner's World Half Marathon - 2:10:35 (9:58 min/mile pace) - RECAP
October 25 - *Virtual* Pug Run 5k - 25:29 (8:13 min/mile pace)
***
November 9 - Boston River Run 5k - 24:12 (7:47 min/mile pace) - RECAP
November 15 - Spartan Sprint Fenway Park - 58:54 - RECAP
November 16 - South Shore Half Marathon - 1:54:00 (8:42 min/mile pace) - RECAP
November 23 - Santa Hustle New England Half Marathon - 1:52:28 (8:36 min/mile pace) - RECAP
November 27 - Gobble Gobble Gobble 4-Miler - Garmin Time: 42:24 & Mass Start Time: 43:09 - RECAP
November 29 - The Ugly Sweater Run (2.5 miles) - *NOT TIMED* - Garmin: 20:43 (8:16 min/mile pace) - RECAP
***
December 6 - Jingle Bell Half Marathon - 1:51:37.2 (8:32 min/mile pace) - RECAP
December 14 - Yulefest 5k - 23:08 (7:27 min/mile pace) - RECAP
It's TWOsday! You all see what I did there? Gosh I am so witty. I should probably trademark this before EVERYONE starts using it. I mean now I see where the folks came up with Three Things Thursday and Five Things Friday. But mine is just to another level. Am I right? Anywho, let's get back to TWOsday! I wanted to share a couple of donation opportunities with you all.
***
My friend Barry is taking part in the 2015 New England Classic 150 and 550 Tour De Cure bike ride. How awesome is that? I couldn't imagine riding that many days for that many miles. More power to ya Barry! He is fundraising to Stop Diabetes!
To help his fundraising efforts, he is raffling off a Garmin product, which he is purchasing himself.
Options are: 1. Garmin Edge Touring GPS Cycling Computer, with GPS and Maps 2. Garmin Forerunner 310XT Multi Sport GPS Training Device 3. Garmin Forerunner 220 GPS enabled running watch
Here's how to enter: For every $10 Donated, you get ONE chance to win For every $20 Donated, you get THREE chances to win For every $30 Donated you get FIVE chances to win For every $40 Donated you get SEVEN chances to win For every $50 Donated you get TEN chances to win!
Seems like a pretty SWEET deal to me. Head on over to his website to enter today!!
***
Woo! Boston Marathon training with Tedy's Team begins on December 13! I cannot believe I have the honor to run my third-straight Boston to help #FightStroke! :)
If you would like to help me reach my goal AND virtually share a mile with me on that day, a $20 donation to Tedy’s Team would make any mile you want yours!! Sound like a fun plan?
Let’s Do It!
Click here to donate today
Leave a blog comment letting me know which mile you would like to sponsor
Miles Available
1-
2-
3-
4-
5-
6-
7- Gregg Bard
8-
9-
10-
11-
12-
13- Samantha Avnet
14-
15- Mary Ellen Valverde
16-
17-
18- Sarah McDowell
19-
20- Dan Foley
21-
22- Barry Gagne
23-
24-
25- Angela Gillis
26-
26.2 For ME 
***
So if you are feeling in a giving mood today and want to help Stop Diabetes or Fight Stroke, we really appreciate it! :)
Social media is great for a lot of things like getting a shout out from Montell Jordan (yup happened and I have it saved!) or it is a way to find new and exciting products. While I hold my tweet from Montell Jordan near and dear to my heart today I am ready to share 5 new products that have burst onto my scene. Now some may be old news to you, but they are new to me! Yes I live under a rock when it comes to some crazes. Shocking I know. ;)
Let's get this party started!
***
This is one where I am DEFINITELY late to the party.
Nuun is leading the way in portable hydration with three drink options to keep you refreshed and replenished all day, everyday. All three are ideal to help keep you hydrated and to make the most of the water you drink.
I tested two of the three versions of Nuun: Active Hydration and All Day.
The Active Hydration is a great way to replace the sugary Gatorade I normally use during long runs or races. Nuun has less than 1g of carbs, fewer than 8 calories, no sugar, no high-fructose corn syrup and no artificial flavors or colors. All big plusses in my book when trying to keep a more natural approach to fueling while training. Plus the watermelon is a nice treat during a triathlon transition. ;)
Now I personally do not have a problem keeping myself hydrated as I drink at least 100 ounces of water a day. BUT plain water can get boring so I enjoyed adding in some Grape Raspberry All Day into my mix.
Did you know dehydration is the #1 trigger of daytime fatigue? Sugary and caffeinated drinks take you on a roller coaster ride during the day, but with zero sugar, under 8 calories per tab, and a blend of A, B, C, D, E vitamins, Nuun All Day keeps you going.
***
I love promoting local companies and small businesses whenever possible and Runfellow fits into both. Runfellow is a Somerville-based runner-inspired gear company started by Jillian, who I have the honor to get to know the past year.
Runfellow is a running community with a focus on motivating and inspiring fellow runners. Our positive, quirky taglines catch your eye, make you smile and push you a little further. We’re not just another running clothing company, we’re a community of runners and for runners.
Not only is Jillian offering cute tanks, tech shirts and long-sleeve t-shirts for both men and women, but she started a kickass running club in the Somerville/Cambridge area that meets every Tuesday night. Location changes every week and is announced on their Facebook page.
Picture Courtesy of Runfellow
I should also mention that $1.00 from each shirt purchased from the shop will be donated to the Young Survival Coalition, an organization and resource for young women facing breast cancer.
If you are looking for a fun shirt to wear to run/walk a race or spectate then check out Runfellow. And if you are in the Somerville?Cambridge area, come join in for a run. I'll give you your first high-five!
***
Gina from Skinnytaste.com is one of my favorite bloggers out there. She is also a staple topic during my Weight Watchers meetings since she offers simple low-PPV recipes that my members LOVE because she doesn't sacrifice taste.
Did you know after having her two kids, Gina turned to Weight Watchers for help to lose weight?
So when a copy of her book happened to show up at my door (value $30) around my birthday I took it as a sign ... it was time to get to cooking. Fine! We all know my wife does the cooking in my house. So really it was time to highlight recipes I wanted my wife to make.
The Skinnytaste Cookbook features 150 recipes - 125 all-new dishes and 25 of her must-haves - covering breakfast dishes, dips, appetizers, salads that won't bore you, meat dishes, vegetarian dishes, desserts and so much more. It seems like she is including something for everyone.
In her first cookbook, Gina makes sure each recipe offers her personal story behind the concept, her tips for success dubbed "Skinny Scoop," as well as the nutrition facts. Super easy for my Weight Watchers friends to calculate the PPV of each recipe.
After drooling over the 100 delicious looking photos, I quickly dove into Gina's "Skinny Basics," aka her hints for creating a good-for-you kitchen and lifestyle.
I can't wait to dive in and have an entire weekend of enjoying her recipes starting with Dad's Jammin' Crepes (pt 51) and finishing with the Silky Chocolate Cream Pie (ps 295).
And the entire meal will be guilt free.
So if you are looking for the perfect gift for your spouse, mom, dad or fellow Weight Watcher friend, get your copy of The Skinnytaste Cookbook today!
***
I am not one that easily becomes obsessed with running gear, but immediately after slipping into this jacket I was hooked.
An eye-catching layering piece, the women’s New Balance Beacon Vest features 3 levels of visibility details, making you visible from dawn to dusk. First, low-light visibility comes from the bright color, blending safety with style. Second, oncoming-light visibility comes from the 360-degree reflective trim, so you’ll catch the light when headlights and streetlights hit you at night. Third, no-light visibility comes from the revolutionary glow-in-the-dark technology on the sleeves and back: charge the Beacon Jacket under light and you’re ready to go, and ready to glow, day or night.
So what would I look like in the dark? Here you go:
It is a bit blurry since I was moving so quickly before the camera. ;)
In addition to the great reflective properties, the jacket also offers front zip pockets for storage, as well as interior media pockets for additional storage.
The New Balance Glow Beacon Jacket's versatility is well worth the $175 price tag.
***
Just when you didn't think there could be another version of an activity tracker enter iFit!
The iFit Active fitness tracker (value $129) works with its mobile app to track your everyday activity, sleep, and nutrition, while providing you with the tools to live a better and healthier life.
After entering in my basic information and sharing about the Fox that I am, it was time to customize my settings.
My favorite feature is "Move Time." I set my iFit to buzz when I haven't moved for 30 minutes. It is the jolt I need when I am distracted in work on my computer or sucked into a TV marathon after work.
I also love that it is waterproof. I wore it during my pool workout last week and it lived to tell the tale. ;)
Now I do not use the calories portion personally, but it is a great feature for those that do.
Please excuse me while I go take some laps around my apartment to hit my 10k step goal!
***
Which of these five fantastic finds will you try?
My name is Dani and I am blogging out of the Boston Area. I started this blog in May of 2011 after suffering a back injury and subsequent back surgery in December 2011-January 2011. This space was to serve as a way for me to release the inner feelings I was carrying around and maybe help some other people going through similar situations: eating disorders, depression, weight loss and more.
