Running Treasure Hunt: The Weird, Creepy & Beautiful Sights of Summer Running

Every wonder what us runners think about or see on our runs?  Well, my friend Wendy was curious to see what her fellows runners found on their summer runs, so she's hosting the very first 

Running Treasure Hunt link-up.  

Make sure that you go give her blog a shout and follow because she's hysterical, inspirational and authentic!  

Read on for some funny, creepy, weird and beautiful sights I see on my morning runs! 

Summer running in Minnesota can be quite the adventure.  Usually, my runs are pretty status-quo.  I get up at 4:45 before the sun.  I head out for my 5-6 mile run.  I come home.  I jump in the shower and I'm off for the day.   And, basically... that's all she wrote.

But like I said, summer can bring adventure.   Let's talk about bats for example.  You know... the tiny, cute-faced, rabies-carrying blood suckers???  Awe, aren't they cute looking?

WRONG!  Summer brings humidity and summer brings bugs!  Thankfully, I believe these bats really could care less about me, but I've been dive-bombed too many times this summer!  The first 1/4 mile of my route is swarming with bats!  We live near a wetland so they have a great feeding ground with the pond.

I focus on the end of the block, keep my head down and try not to think about the little beast flying so low over my head I can feel their breeze.  I'll have to admit, the first time I encountered these guys this summer - I may have screamed and flailed my arms a bit.   Much like what a ninja would look like walking into a spider web.

Let's also talk about WHO I see while I'm out running at zero-dark-thirty.  A few days ago, I wanted to get 10 miles in before my husband went to work.  That meant a 4:30 am alarm and a solo 4 miles before I picked up a girlfriend who was running with me.   I texted my girlfriends joking about getting abducted so early in the morning all by myself.  "We haven't seen anything suspicious in a while" was one response.  "Criminals don't get up that early!" was another.  Supportive friends.   Just kidding, of course they were supportive, but maybe I was just overreacting.  Nonetheless, it doesn't hurt to be cautious.

However, for those 4 very dark and lonely miles, all I could think about was someone lurking in the bushes or jumping out at me; much like Jack Nicholson in 'The Shining.'  That movie gave me nightmares for weeks!  

But seriously, all joking aside.   We do, in my small, pretty darn safe town, have some shady activity going down at wee hours in the morning.  I know for a fact that the small park I run through almost daily has some drug activity.  I've seen it happen.  It must be a meeting point for exchanges, or drops.  I don't know.  I'm not a drug-dealer.  BUT, what I do know is that a teenager doesn't drive to the park at 5 am, sit in his/her car for 10 minutes and then drive out and NOT be doing something wrong.  This happens on the regular.  I know that the same person that I see often HAS to see me too?!!?

Anywhoo - on to sights #3 and #4.   Let's talk about clothing as being optional in this next segment.   Minnesota is HOT.  Smoking hot and humid in the summer.  So hot and humid that sometimes I feel like I'm trying to run with a wet wash cloth on my face.  My legs fatigue easier, I sweat in ALL.THE.PLACES and all I want to do is run in as little clothes as possible.  Yesterday, I commented "I wish I could run naked!"  Which, got a lot of laughs and sparked some pretty hilarious running convo.

BUT, then I realize ain't nobody wants to see me running naked!  Can you imagine?  I picture all of me just hanging out, much like that dog!  Ha!  I am also extremely envious of the hot-body, sports-bra wearing runner with the tight abs I see some mornings running.   And, then quickly my thoughts change to, 'I bet she doesn't eat pizza on the daily.'   I wonder what she thinks as she runs by me?  Maybe I should ask her someday!

Sight #4 ties in nicely with the no clothes talk.  I promised myself last winter when my nose hairs were freezing and I had icicles on my face I wouldn't ever complain about summer running.  EVER.  I broke that promise.  I want the humidity to end.  It's miserable.  In a tank and shorts, I have TOO many clothes on.  I sweat everywhere and my terms of SWOOB, SWASS and well.......SWUSSY are just used too much.  Sorry for the crass words, but you can pretty much figure out that's all the places we sweat.  It's horrible.  Makes for some funny talk, but make.it.stop.

I'm dead.  Stick a fork in me. 

I've saved the best for last.  Running really does bring great joy into my life.  Every once in awhile, I get to see the amazing beauty around me.   If I didn't get up in the wee hours of the morning, when the birds are first chirping, and most people are still snug in their beds,  there would be no THIS ----

A take-your-breath-away moment that only summer skies bring.  The sky was a fiery-red that early morning last week.   The horses along the white picket fences were still.  No traffic.  Just beauty.  It's these moments that drag me out of bed.   It's these moments that make all the other crazy, weird and creepy moments worth it.

Go out.  Get yourself out of bed.  Embrace the beauty around you!  But first, make sure to visit  my friend Wendy over at www.takinglongwayhome.com.   

Hope you enjoyed the post!  What do you see on your runs?  I'd love to hear from you! 

Got Sunglasses? XX2i 4K ultra high-defintion sunglasses do NOT Disappoint!

Disclaimer:  I received the XX2i sunglasses to review as part of being a BibRave Pro.  Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro ( ambassador ), and check out BibRave.com to review, find and write race reviews. 

One of the fantastic perks of being a BibRave Pro is the opportunity to review and test out awesome products for our active lifestyles!  I am a runner who logs many hours and many miles per week outdoors.  With that being said, running is sometimes uncomfortable.  Sometimes... it down right STINKS!  Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't be a runner if I didn't really love it. I DO. I love running. I love ALL things running. 

But.... when the going gets tough outdoors, why not make it that much better with a super cool, comfortable and functional pair of sunglasses!?! XX2i Optics, check out their website here, sent me some awesome polarized sunglasses because I am a BibRave Pro.  Make sure you check out BibRave to write your latest race review and learn about local races in your area!

There is nothing worse than having sun blazing down on you during an already uncomfortable run.   For me, winter in Minnesota is particularly crazy.  The sun glaring off the white snow can be blinding at times.... and this week we got some fresh stuff. What a perfect time to run with my glasses!  Plus the added bonus is no wind in your eyes.  In Minnesota, sometimes my eyes water and it freezes coming down my face, but not today!

Try out these XX2i 4K high-definition sunglasses to make your run more enjoyable!   And look just a little bit more bad-ass doing it!   I received mine a few weeks ago - and immediately took a picture!   Early Christmas present to me!  See, aren't they awesome???? 

Disclaimer:   I received free xx2i optics sunglasses to review as a BibRave Pro.

Check out Bibrave.com to write about your favorite local races!

I've had the opportunity to try out these glasses now for a few weeks.  I've worn them both casually and while running.  Actually, I almost like them more when I'm being active then when I'm just wearing them for fun.  Today on my run, it was sunny and we had fresh snow on the ground.  I needed the glasses to help with the snow glare and streets where the sun was shining bright!  I usually do most of my miles in the early morning in pitch black, so it was really fun running during the daylight hours! 

In my opinion, one of the great features of these glasses is the adjustable/bendable nose piece.  I have a very narrow nose bridge so I absolutely need nose pads to help me hold up my glasses; especially when running with sweat dripping off my face!  These glasses did not slip even ONCE during my run, even with a sweaty nose, and at no time during my run did I feel the need to squint when looking into the sun.  To tell you the honest truth, I didn't think it would be possible for a pair of sunglasses not to slip.  These babies didn't budge!  These 4K ultra high-definition optics also have interchangeable colors for the ear and nose pieces.  I am wearing the black color, but it also comes in blue and red. 

Overall, I am very happy with the functionality and the look of these glasses!  They will definately become a staple for me during my workouts and after for everyday kicking around!  

Don't think you can live without these babies??  It's your lucky day!  Right now, through January 2016, you can score your very own for 50% off retail!  Just use code XX2iROCKS at checkout.  I promise you will not be disappointed. 

Don't forget to check out BibRave to write your own race reviews and spread the love and give us a share! 

Happy Running!

My Own Personal Running Survey

I recently saw a running survey and really enjoyed reading it, so I'm going to give it a try.  Here's to getting to know me a little bit more. 

How long ago did you start running?

I started running a few times per week about 4 year ago.  It really was just a hobby that I occasionally started doing, when I had the time.... which wasn't very often.  About two years ago, a few friends in my neighborhood got me hooked on morning running and now I MAKE time and find that if I try hard enough, I definately have enough time to get my run in.  It's now a passion and I couldn't imagine life without running.

What time of day do you find is the best to run?

With my full-time job and my two very busy little boys, early morning 5AM workouts are my "ME" time.  The house is quiet.  Most of the time, my boys are still sleeping, and I can run guilt-free.  I say guilt-free for all of you moms out there. How often do we get to do something for ourselves where we don't have to worry about a billion other things??  My alarm rings at 4:45 three to four days per week.  Sometimes, even earlier if I'm planning a long run. 

Where is your favorite place to run?

I enjoy road running.  The treadmill, or "dreadmill" as I call it, is only good for extremely cold days or icy conditions.  I was recently in Colorado however, and did some trail running!  It is awesome! There is something so exhilarating about dodging rocks and jumping down inclines.  But, I hurt in muscles I didn't know I had after running trails for sure!

Are there any road conditions you won't run in?

I train with some pretty bad-ass women.  We run in absolutely any weather.  Here in MN it's dark 9 months of the year at 5AM.  It also gets extremely cold.  Last year my limit was 8 below zero -- and with the windchill it was a miserable 8 miles.  My nostrils froze and it took me hours to warm up after.  On the upside?  I'll always have the memories.  BUT, usually, fresh snow on the roads or ice keeps me inside.  It's silly for me to risk slipping or breaking a limb when I have a treadmill in my basement.  I also don't venture out when it's extremely cold with windchill.  Although I did run a 10K race in -27 below.  NEVER AGAIN.  My eyelashes had icicles and those icicles and icicles.  Catch my drift.  ha ha ha

What are your favorite running shoes?

No question.  Mizunos.  I run in the Wave Inspires and have been for 4 years.  They have treated me well, so there is no reason for me to change.  I have 3 pair in rotation at this moment. 

What is your favorite race distance? 

Currently, I like the 10 mile.  Not to short, but not too long and I'm not sprinting like I would in a 5K.  I have yet to run a marathon. Maybe one day, I can say my favorite distance is a marathon.  Bucket list for sure! 

Do you like to run solo or with someone else? 

Most days I really enjoy running with friends, and typically I'm doing just that. I have some amazing friends that I run with daily and love chatting.  We are always talking, but it helps to pass them miles.  Typically, I run my races solo though.  Races are my time to push myself. 

Does your family support your running? 

My husband is my biggest supporter.  With two boys sometimes it's hard to venture out of the house and he handles it like a trooper!  I love it when they come to my races and cheer me on!  My mom is hilarious because she always says... " I worry about you when you run those distances.  You're going to hurt yourself."  I also don't think she realizes how far a mile is. :)  But like any mom she's proud of me and I like to make her proud as well. 

What have you gained from running?

Where do I start?  Running has given me so much!  I have met amazing friends through my running.  I follow so many wonderful blogs and runners on social media.  I have learned how to take care of my body. I have gained strength. I have lost weight.  The list goes on.  

What is most rewarding about running? 

There is nothing quite like that finish line!  I LOVE crossing finish lines.  The work and dedication it takes to make it across is like no other. The emotions you feel when you are done with the race can only be described by runners.  I feel invisible, like I can do anything.  I visualize that finish line during my races and that gets me through tough runs as well.   

 

Hot Chocolate 15K - Minneapolis, MN April 18, 2015

I Finished!  15K  1:23:27

For my first race of the 2015 season, it couldn't have been a better day in Minneapolis!  The sun was shining; 57 degrees at the start.  It was a tad bit windy, but actually after I was running, I welcomed the wind to cool me off!  A good friend of mine and my partner-in-crime for my early morning 5 AM runs was my race partner for the day.  We usually run the same pace and races are much more fun when you have a friend by your side. 

Overall, I think the race was very well organized.  It operated smoothly and everyone was able to indulge in the chocolate goodies at the end.  I've heard of many races where the finisher perks were unavailable at the end of the race.  At first, I found it odd that the 5K races started at 8:00 and the 15K started at 8:50.  However...the only downside to that was that we needed to park a tad bit farther away from the race.  The 5K pool of runners was much larger than the 15K runners.  The advantage that we had as racers starting later was: no lines at the port potties, optimum picture opportunities, easy gear check and all together less people.  This filtered through at the end of the race too.  I'm not one for huge crowds and it was very nice to have many of the 5K finishes already on their way home when we crossed the finish line.  

Here's a pick of my friend and partner-in-crime Heather and I at the finish!  Did I mention the medals are AWESOME!!!  These medals were a new addition this year for the 15K finishers.  Being that I'm a "bling-whore" I absolutely LOVE IT!!  In case you can't see all it's beauty on the above picture, here it is!!!

Another great addition to my race day was this amazing sign that my Instagram friend Amanda and her daughter made for me!  I saw her at mile 8 - just when I needed that little extra boost of energy to get me to the end.  I've never had a sign made for me so this was extra special! It is going to hang on the wall next to my treadmill. It makes a nice memory for me!

Below is Amanda and I after the finish. Believe it or not... we had never met until yesterday.  We became friends and motivators for each other on Instagram.  She came down to the race just to see me and to meet me.  I felt like a million bucks!  Here's to hoping I can support her in a few short weeks at her marathon debut!  This just shows you how amazing the running community is.  Support can come from anyone and I am so thankful for the support I receive from my Instagram and Facebook Community.

This race is a MUST-DO for anyone in the Minneapolis area. It will for sure be added to the list of my favorites.

My only disappointment on the day was that I ran 9.48 miles.  I need lessons on how to cut the course so that I am as close to the mileage as possible.  My Garmin clocked me at the same finish time, but with my mileage it was 8:48 / mile.  Hot Chocolate Ram Racing has me at 8:58/mile.  I realize that to most people this is peanuts of a difference.  I attribute some of the extra mileage to dodging runners at the start of the race - it was crowded the first 1 1/2 miles.  I feel like I could have been placed one corral up as well and that would have made a slight difference.

This race inspired the start of my season. I cannot WAIT for the next one.  In two weeks I will be completing my 2nd half-marathon in La Crosse Wisconsin.