Race #2: April 2013 Running of the Elk, Half Marathon

Based in Elk Grove, CA this race was very well organized and supported children with learning disabilities. Runners were encouraged to wear Elk Antlers in support of the theme "running of the Elk" and to represent city pride.

This race had a nice course a lot of wide roads to support walkers/joggers/runners and many nature highlights. While running I met a 2:30 pace group hosted by the Running Zone shoe store. My actual goal time for this race was 2:33 (2 minutes less than my last race time) I decided to stick with the pace group until the end to make my goal a reality. At mile 5 we had a large group of 20 men and women yet, by mile 9 we were a small group of 5 women. 

I began to struggle at mile 12. Being that I went to this race alone without friends or family the lack of visual support got to my head. As I neared the end I realized there will be no one to meet me at the finish line, take my picture, drive me home and listen to my race stories. I get a little glum which isn't the best mood for a runner on their last mile. I gradually got over the mile 12 hump by visualizing a warm bath and relaxing with my new medal. I pushed through, shaving off not only 2 minutes but 5 minutes from previous race time. Yay! me.

My time: 2 hours and 30 minutes

I try to reward myself after each race. Rewards can be great motivators, super relaxing, and the extra push needed to get past the mile 12 hump. My go-to rewards always include some form of pampering, shouldn't it be required after running 13 miles? I love massages, facials, and manicure/pedicures. I know these treats don't come cheap. Enlisting a friend or family member should cut down the cost or search for online deals on groupon and livingsocial to reward your efforts.

I have yet, to reward myself for this race- I was in a rush to an event directly after. so IOME. Can hardly wait.

Race #1: March 2013 Oakland Running Festival

On my way to the race

The Oakland Running Festival is a highly anticipated event. It is the absolute talk of the town. The entire week I couldn't stop talking about it and nor could anyone else. I spent January and February training for a year of races and finally, my first race was here.

I was beyond ready, well trained, ate a carb loaded pasta dinner, prepped my clothes the night before, and was ready to rumble. 

The course was full of support. There were cheerleaders everywhere with signs, music, whistles, and BIG SMILES motivating us the whole way. The course took us on a tour around Oakland to the good, bad, and the beautiful. There was a post-race party at Snow Park  swarming with sweaty, smiling, and sore runners listening to Blues music, drinking beer, and snacks while kids played in jumpers. The weather was amazing, the city at peace, and I had just completed 13.1 miles.

My time: 2 hours and 35 minutes

Tired at mile 12 but still smiling 

I rewarded myself with a manicure and pedicure and lunch at one of my favorite restaurants: Shan-gri-La. I deserved it.

Chasing a Dream: The 12 Race Challenge

I am all about self improvement and I like to challenge myself to try new things often. I am not big on New Years Resolutions because I am often creating new resolutions each month. However, this year I decided to make a resolution like never before. It all began last April 2012, when my aunt invited me to run a half-marathon (13.1 miles) with her and some friends. I gladly agreed-yet slowly and reluctantly began training. I went into the race blind not knowing what to eat, how to train, or the proper shoes to wear. I completed my first half marathon in 3 hours and 10 minutes with little to no training, in 6 year-old running shoes that no longer had tread, and having eaten only a smoothie the night before. I didn't have a clue. My feet were swollen and sore and I could barely walk for days.

Besides the grueling aftermath of the race all I could remember were the peaceful trees towering over me, the calm of the river, the encouragement from cheerful volunteers, and the natural high from pushing my body beyond its limits. I felt like an athlete again. I dabbled in various sports as a child through high school but as I got older I resorted to running only for maintaining health and fitness.

Until now.

Since the race last April, my New Years resolution was initially to run 6 races in 2013. But here we are in May with 4 races under my belt, now my resolution no longer feels like a challenge, so I've decided to run 12 races this year. I've learned the importance of a good pair of running shoes and comfortable socks. I realize now I need to “carb load” 2 days before to fuel my body, and I consistently train weeks ahead. I’ve learned so much from this experience and I continue to learn more and more about myself: my strengths and weaknesses. Running races has become one of the most fulfilling activities I’ve ever participated in.

If I could get everyone of my friends and family, young and old to run a race with me, I would. Running clears the mind, exercises the body, and the commanderie amongst other runners builds community. I will document my 2013 races here. I love and need the encouragement, your comments and well wishes are welcomed.

Pre-Workout Snack Quickie

Fruit and Nut Bowl 
Laces strapped, Ipod charged, playlist ready, gym bag packed....it's time to burn some calories. But don't forget your workout fuel leave the sugar filled gels, candies, and energy bars behind and create your own with a few staple ingredients. Using fresh and dried fruits you can create a GIANT size bowl of Energy. I call it my "Energy Snack Quickie" the berries provide the antioxidants with a hint of tangy sweetness. The flax seeds and walnuts offer an abundance of Omega 3 fatty acids, in addition to antioxidants and a host of vitamins and minerals ranging from B-6 to Folate.

This bowl of wellness tends to be a great option for folks on the go, why? because there is simply no measuring required, just throw in whatever berries you have in a bowl top with flax or chia seeds, add some nuts, and dried fruit and WA-LAH!!! Energy to-go. The beauty of this snack is that it offers a natural sweetness that will fuel your workout from beginning to end without the energy crash artificial sweeteners promise.  Hope you enjoy.


Pre-Workout "Energy Snack Quickie"

As much as you desire of each:
Strawberries
Blueberries
Raspberries
Currants/cranberries/raisins
Walnuts/Almonds/Pecans
Flax/chia seeds

Restaurant Review: Real Food Daily

As you know, when I visit a place new I'm all about the vegan eats and treats. Before traveling to Pasadena, CA for a friends wedding I made of list potential vegan restaurants to try out. My number one pick was Real Food Daily.

"The Club" Sandwich"

After a satisfying hotel workout a group of us found ourselves hungry for Brunch. We quickly made our way to the patio of Real Food Daily where we splurged on an abundance of vegan breakfast and lunch food. 

Blueberry Pancake Stack

Although, the restaurant was cozy and well decorated inside the Pasadena sun called us outside. We ordered an array of food sharing it family style because it was all too delicious to keep to oneself. The service was quick, efficient, and friendly. Everything we ordered tasted fresh, well seasoned, and unique.

"Sausage Scramble"

When we arrived it took us some time to order because there were so many great options to choose from. We ordered desserts, fresh juices, teas, sodas, wraps, sandwiches, pancakes, and acai bowls. We ate to our stomachs content. Great food. Great people. Great time. 

"Grilled Veggie" Wrap 

Everyone agreed Real Food Daily was the best choice for brunch. It was a great way to begin our Pasadena  trip. 

Susie, Anjalee, Rob, Joy, and  Scott (behind the camera)

Breakfast Made Simple

Restaurant Review: Pizzanista

I love boobies

 Set in the art district of Los Angeles, California, Pizzanista, is a laid back, cozy, and quaint venue. They offer a variety of creative pizza flavors designed to satisfy meat eaters, vegetarians, and vegans alike. The decor is simple wooden tables and bar stools, while their signature breast cancer support “I love boobies and pizza” shirts adorn the walls. They have a an awesome selection of beverages and customer service is quick and friendly. 

Vegan Pizza

After a short Pasadena visit my friend (shot out Scott) and I shared a vegan pizza and some garlic knots before we headed back to Norcal. The pizza was amazingly delicious. The thick doughy crust melted in my mouth as the homemade marinara captured a traditional Italian spice with each bite. The Daiya cheese evenly smothered the pie kicking it up two extra  knotches. It was soooo good. 

Scott and I (as soda)

We washed it down with soda pop. I had the bubble up, while Scott had the the Creme Soda. Yum!!! I had a great time here and will return upon my next SOCal visit. Check them out!