Do you know what Gokay is?

Hi! How’s it going? Over here it’s going gokay. Is that a thing? I vote that it’s a real thing now.

Gokay =  good + okay

This just occurred to me because I was about to say things are ‘good!’ but really they’re not. Things are okay but I’m optimistic they’re going to be good again so I’m going with gokay. I dig it! I’m going to make gokay happen.

I’ll let you know if gokay happens and I’ll also let ya know what else is up in RER-land BTS as we go along.

I was on a mission to get out of the house and do something fun yesterday. So it was perfect timing that a friend invited me to meet up at a chocolate bar. Seriously, I couldn’t turn that down.

I got my greasy bangs in the car and headed to the cute lil chocolate shop.

Dark chocolate truffle for me. Dark chocolate has anti-oxidants so it’s basically a vitamin, right?

I might not always stop to smell the flowers but I do stop to take pictures of them sometimes.

This morning I had an easy 6 miler with the sunrise. It was a super gorgeous time with the sun starting to peek through the trees. Love.

Then, I did the BeachBody dirty 30 workout while watching that new Bravo show Sweet Home Oklahoma or something like that – I don’t even know. I just put it on because there was nothing else on – but randomly started laughing during one part where one of the ladies realizes her kids changed Siri to call her Butt-Liquor.

I really needed a laugh so I just enjoyed it and laughed instead of doing whatever move was happening with 21 day fix.

Laughing burns calories, right?

I made my usual green smoothie for breakfast and ate it while sitting on the floor. I was going to watch TV while eating but was almost done when I realized – I never turned it back on after my workout. I just sat there deep in thought the whole time on the floor. What a weirdo!!

Let me tell ya a little secret life hack – I open up popcorn from the bottom sometimes because I figure the salt falls to the bottom and I think this might help disburse it. Boom.

My 2nd life hack is to always mix Spark in a shaker bottle and not stir it to get the back mix-up.

I also have a new awesome green smoothie recipe coming soon!! Stay tuned for that.

Runner Spotlight:

A reader reached out about her friend’s new race website that is like Trip Advisor for races – Race Advisors.

The purpose of Race Advisors is to provide race participants with a one-stop-shop for race information. Whether it is attempting to find a specific distance or a specific location, Race Advisors will help you find a race that fits what you’re looking for.

Many races cost a pretty penny these days, so rather than gamble on a race that you don’t know about, you can read reviews from past participants to determine if a race will have solid value for you. You can search according to your home town or a specific destination. And, since many runners also participate in other competitive activities, Race Advisors provides information on cycling, swimming, triathlon, duathlon, and paddle races as well.

Question: Should I stop trying to make Gokay happen?

The post Do you know what Gokay is? appeared first on Run Eat Repeat.

source http://runeatrepeat.com/2017/03/31/do-you-know-what-gokay-is/

10 Things I’m Addicted To…

1. Running.

No surprises there. I am happily addicted to running.

Check out this white bird I saw on my run this morning! Hi, friend!! I like random ‘seen on my run’ stuff.

2. Being messy – can I be addicted to that?

I’m too much of a mess to worry if that’s not a real addiction. But I did go through my mail while eating breakfast so I have that going for me.

3. Popcorn.

If a store sells popcorn I am buying it. I don’t care where I am or if I just ate or the fact that there’s a pile of fallen popcorn under the seat of my car – I need it.

4. Cats and puppies.

Anyone else get caught in 22 hours of looking at cute cat videos? I also thought up a name for my next dog today so I’m pretty excited about that.

5. Dark Chocolate.

6. Watermelon.

Watermelon is my favorite favorite food.

But watermelon pop-tarts are not anyone’s favorite as I saw these on clearance at the store…

7. Seltzer.

The lady in front of me at the grocery store said something about how much seltzer I was buying and kinda laughed. I think she realized I have a problem. Ha! I just said “I love it!” since I didn’t hear her.

Now that I’m thinking about it… I hope she didn’t say something sad and I responded with “I LOVE IT!”

8. Spark.

My favorite flavor varies from week to week right now it’s Fruit Punch, Green Apple, Mango Strawberry in that order.

9. Seasonal treats!

Reese’s Puffs cereal! Have you spotted this limited time cereal at your grocery store?!

10. Anything on sale or clearance. Anything.

I saw this ladder bookshelf at Target and was 100% going to buy it but I only had one of those arm basket things and didn’t want to drag it to the front of the store.

Question: What are you addicted to this week?

The post 10 Things I’m Addicted To… appeared first on Run Eat Repeat.

source http://runeatrepeat.com/2017/03/30/10-things-im-addicted-to/

My Boston Marathon Race Strategy Broken Down Into 4 Parts

My 4 part marathon race strategy. This can be used for a half marathon too, just update it to breakdown the miles into 4 pieces.

Hi! Today’s Hyland’s Team Challenge post is to visualize the race and do some word association for a few different miles of the Boston Marathon. How does that mile make you feel? What do you think of when you imagine hitting that mile marker?  The point is to share any specific mile or part of the race that is particularly scary or exciting or stressful or fun (some miles are all of those things).

This was kind of a fun and scary process (just like actually running a marathon) because I had to think about how I’d feel at the end of the race. I don’t want to think about that because I already know how I’m going to feel = like quitting or crying or peeing or doing all of those things at the same time.

I don’t want to think about that! I like to just let it surprise me.

But I hate surprises – so that’s not really a smart plan.

So I am creating a marathon strategy to run the race smarter and stronger.  I broke it down into 4 parts.

 

Mile 1 -6 : Run Smart.

I need to run the beginning of the race smart. I often go out way too fast and pay for it later. This is an even bigger challenge at the Boston Marathon because it starts downhill!

The combination of being super excited about running the freaking Boston Marathon, just starting the race and there being a big decline = RER running too fast and completely using all her energy in the first 6 miles.

So my focus is to run smart, listen to my body, pay attention to my pace and enjoy the race.

 

Mile 7 – 12: Turn on the machine.

You are a machine, a running machine that is primed and ready to rock 26.2 miles. Get in the zone. Run YOUR pace.

Enjoy everything around you. Take in all the sights and sounds and crowds. Take a deep breath, say a prayer and thank God for getting you through all the training miles that led up to this point. Turn on the machine and run your plan.

Mile 13 – 18: Work hard, run hard.

I remember Sole Runner’s coach Steve saying something like miles 13 to 17 is when you put in the work. This is the part of the marathon where you are no longer buzzing with excitement. Your energy is probably fading at this point too. You’re not close enough to the finish to feel like ‘you’re almost there’. You can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel yet.

This is where you just buckle in and do the work. Make sure you’re fueling and hydrating – the wall is coming if you don’t! Get in a zone and try to conserve energy by checking in with your running form. Check your pace and keep it steady. Have a gel or bloks. Keep going.

 

Mile 19 – 26: Be Brave and fight for it.

This is where I tend to slam into the wall. This is where the finish line seems so far. This is where I want to quit or cry or pee or cry about how I have to pee. My mind starts falling apart, my body feels heavy and slow…. and the only thing I can do is tell myself.

BE BRAVE.

You’re hurting? Okay, that’s normal – be brave and keep going.

You’re tired? Okay, that’s normal – be brave and keep going.

You feel like quitting? Okay, that’s normal – be brave and keep going.

Be Brave. Save the excuses for something else and fight for yourself. Fight to finish strong. You put in all the training and so much work. You deserve to fight hard to finish strong.

 

Want more on the Boston Marathon course?

Check out this Mile by Mile Guide of the Boston Marathon

Boston Marathon Elevation Profile

Question: How do you breakdown races or long runs?

Do you have a strategy? Reminders or mantras?

The post My Boston Marathon Race Strategy Broken Down Into 4 Parts appeared first on Run Eat Repeat.

source http://runeatrepeat.com/2017/03/29/my-boston-marathon-race-strategy-broken-down-into-4-parts/

Things I That Make Me Feel Better…

Hi! How’s it going? Over here it’s been a little challenging. I am trying to figure everything out with the guys (including Vegas, Ben and the guy at Yogurtland who’s concerned I come in too much) in my life. I don’t really know what’s next exactly but I do know it’s going to be okay. The stress of the unknown is hard though, ya know?

I shared this on Instagram but in case you’re reading RER and need a little hug right now…

Two years ago I was scared and sad before meeting up with Ben and texted my three lil friends to pray for me. Bri responded with Psalm 23 and it immediately gave me some peace. It seems like a weird Bible verse if you’re not in a life or death situation but when you feel like everything is crumbling it definitely helps.

You know what else helps?

Chocolate.

Supposedly Chocolate does make you feel better – but only for 3 minutes! (That’s why I have to keep eating it!)

If chocolate doesn’t make you feel better – maybe a cat will?

I spotted this lil friend yesterday on my walk. He (she?) was so friendly. That’s rare with gatos! I think he must have a home around here because there are a good handful of random cats that live around here. Either way, Vegas said we couldn’t keep him.

If chocolate and a cat don’t make you feel better…

Go for a run! That helps me sometimes.

Bonus points if you can run somewhere beautiful.

‘’

You know what  makes me feel better sometimes?

New clothes – specifically new running clothes! I am digging the snake skin patter on these running shorts (from RoadRunner Sports).

Sometimes a well-placed photo-bomb is fun and helps your mood.

This photo-bomb is just toes and tails – which is extra random and fun so I think that’s even better.

Big ridiculous salads always make me feel better too.

My favorite food makes me feel better, but it’s not in season right now so I’ll happily settle for this watermelon welcome mat.

You know what makes pancakes even better?!?!

Syrup.

It wasn’t a trick question.

But you know what makes it super crazy better??

A runny egg yolk.

Now all I need is to go for a run, have some pancakes topped with an egg, cuddle a puppy and eat chocolate and I’ll be set for life!!

Question: What do you need to feel a little better today?

The post Things I That Make Me Feel Better… appeared first on Run Eat Repeat.

source http://runeatrepeat.com/2017/03/29/things-i-that-make-me-feel-better/

5 Tips to RUN Faster, Happier and Healthier this Spring

Run faster, healthier and have more fun this Spring with these running tips. This post is in partnership with FLONASE® SENSIMIST™ allergy relief.

Hi! It’s Spring over here in California! Is the weather Spring-y where you are? Hopefully Spring temperatures and flowers are popping up all over the place and you can enjoy running outside. But with every new season comes a few new opportunities to tweak your running to get better. And sometimes season changes bring new challenges. So today I’m sharing 5 tips to help you to have the BEST Spring Running Season of your life!

But first –  I wanted to share a little from from my day after the PCRF Half Marathon.

I went to hang out with my niece and was played a ton of different games including: hide-n-seek, building dirt castles, ‘cheers’, taco stand and more. I love it.

And this morning I was craving a donut like a crazy person.

As soon as I woke up I changed, grabbed my keys and hit up a donut shop down the street.

Fresh donuts are EVERYTHING. The other day I was talking to a friend and asked if they needed anything. He said, “A dozen old fashioned donuts.”

I said, “I totally would but they’re not fresh right now. It wouldn’t be worth it.” I think that’s part of what got it in my head. (That, and I’m always thinking about donuts.)

Unfortunately, I just wanted a OG fluffy glazed donut – but they forgot that one! FAIL. Oh well, guess I have to go back again soon…

5 Tips to RUN Faster, Happier and Healthier this Spring

1. Check the time of sunrise and sunset.

With the recent time change the days seem longer because it stays light later. I love that for taking a walk after work!

But it is also dark when I wake up and the sun seems to rise a little later in the morning. Because I have a flexible schedule right now I wait until the sun is up to run most days. But if you need to stick with a certain morning schedule you might suddenly be  running when it’s dark in the morning.

Even if you’re not scared of the dark (like I am) you should make extra cautious about your safety. Make sure you are dressed in bright, reflective gear. Wear a light or reflective vest. Run in safe areas that are well lit. Be mindful of your surroundings.

 

2. Switch up your running clothes.

The temperatures are rising and it’s time to update your running wardrobe – or at least pull your Spring running gear out of storage. Wearing too much or too little can hinder you from running your best. This isn’t about fashion, it’s about function. Dress for the weather and your workout so you are comfortable and can concentrate on running – not your clothes.

You might have to switch it up day to day. Dress in layers. If there is a slight chill but it’s not very cold focus on covering your hands and ears.

*Everyone is different so take note of the temperature during your run and if you felt cold / hot / just right in your Running Log. Long term you should know what you like to wear in 50 degrees versus 99 degrees and everything in between..

Keep in mind:

– The weather: temperature, rain, snow, fog, sun… and that Spring weather can change from week to week as the season transitions.

– How much you’re running – distance, speed, time

– Time of day – do you need reflective gear or lights

– Your body’s needs – do you get hot fast? tend to freeze even in 70 degrees?

 

3. Check in with your goals for the year.

We’re about 4 months into 2017 – how are your running goals coming along? Did you set a running related New Year’s Resolution?

> If you wanted to sign up for a particular race or run a certain distance – go for it NOW. You need 12 to 18 weeks to train for a half marathon – don’t wait. Pick a race and a training plan and get on it.

> If you haven’t set a running or fitness goal for this year –> set one.

The time is going to pass anyway, you’re going to be running or working out either way – make it more fun, challenging and rewarding by setting a goal that will make you proud. It can be anything from running a race you do every year – faster this year to running a certain number of miles next month.

Go Go Gooooooo!!

 

4. Put a Spring in your step with new music!

The warmer weather, pretty flowers and a little running gear… it’s a recipe for a great mood and great runs. Take it up a notch by adding some new fun music to your running playlist. (Check out my latest running playlist here.)

Already added new music?

Change up your running and keep it fun and fresh by:

changing your running route – it can be as simple as running your usual route backwards (don’t run backwards, run your route in the opposite direction)

add in new cross-training – yoga, strength training, zumba, karate… try something new

consider joining a running group or meet-up – some groups that take a break during the winter are starting back up. check ‘em out

This helps keep it fun and keeps your body from ‘getting used to your workouts’ so you continue to make improvements.

 

5. Don’t let anything – even allergies stop you.

This winter was the wettest, rainiest winter of my entire life. I can’t believe how much it rained in Southern California!! I’m happy the drought is slowly going away and I’m happy the grass is so green and the running paths in Orange County are lined with flowers. But this new, lush environment is disbursing a ton of pollen.

A few weeks ago I was running along and thought it looked like someone was throwing confetti from a tree…. what? I was so confused. Turns out it was big ol’ pollen and flower puffs floating through the air. That’s happened a lot now! I’ve noticed my throat get itchy after a run on a windy day.

Running is hard enough – but if you have allergies and are trying to run you might need some back-up.

That’s where FLONASE® SENSIMIST™ allergy relief can help. It temporarily relieves the symptoms of hay fever or other upper respiratory allergies like nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose, itchy and watery eyes. (The regular one is for ages 12 and up, there is also a children’s version.)

FLONASE® SENSIMIST™ allergy relief can help relieve dust allergies, pet allergies and outdoor allergies. I am just in ‘stop and smell the flowers’ mode, but you can check it out for those issues too.

Fun fact:  76% of the U.S. population lives within a 5 mile radius of a CVS Pharmacy so it’s so convenient to swing by and pick up Sensimist spray while you are grabbing your prescription or other essentials. Easy peasy!

 

Question: Where are you and how’s the weather there?

Me: Orange County. Right now it’s 55.

Disclosure: I’m proud to be working with CVS Pharmacy to help spread the word about how to #BeGreater with #SensimistAtCVS. All opinions are my own, and all product claims or program details shared should be verified at CVS.com or with the appropriate manufacturers.

The post 5 Tips to RUN Faster, Happier and Healthier this Spring appeared first on Run Eat Repeat.

source http://runeatrepeat.com/2017/03/28/5-tips-to-run-faster-happier-and-healthier-this-spring/