2014 Recap

Happy New Year!

We rang in 2015 with our usual party with family and friends.  It is my favorite night of the year.  All of the adults and kids made it to midnight and beyond.  We all slept in very late and have no regrets.

I have been thinking about my year and what I am hoping for this coming year.  When I kicked off 2014, I had one goal which was to run 14 races in 2014.  I ran 17.

My biggest goal of the year, wasn't even a thought until I entered and won a contest that got me a free entry for the Rhode Warrior Half Iron Distance Triathlon.  I didn't even know how to swim.

So some numbers.

Total running, 580.15

Bike, 515

Swim, 18.74

Grand total, 1113.89

Now, I was exact with my running but not so much with my swimming and biking and I am pretty sure I missed a couple so the total may be slightly higher.  Either way, I am happy with this.

Seventeen races.

Six 5K's

One 4 miler

Two 10 milers

Five half marathons

Two sprint tri's

One Half Ironman

First race of the year was Ocean's Run Half Marathon. One of my favorites and will most likely run it again in March.

Second race was The Shamrock Shuffle 5K.  Fun, local race. It was very cold this year and I was not dressed right.  Also. it was the last time I ran in compression socks.

Chilly Cheeks Virtual 5K.  Andy's race that helped raise money for the American Cancer Society. I am now part of his team and we will be running The Philadelphia Broad Street Run in May.  I am really looking forward to this one.  If you would like to help, you can donate here.

UPC Life Without Limits 5K.  Love this race because it was with Andy. We had a great time and almost a sub 30 5k.  Darn kids!

Newport 10 Miler. I love this race. Perfect time of year and a beautiful course.  No PR for me but fun none the less. Ran this one alone but Elaine was there, way ahead of me on the course, LOL.  They moved this to June this year and I am on the fence if the timing will work out for me.

Cox Providence Half Marathon.  Got to finally meet, in person, Sarah, aka Professor Badass. Beth ran this one with me and I did struggled a bit but still got a PR.  Would of never happened without Beth keeping me focused, especially the last couple miles.

Narrow River 5K. I love this race. My town, just a few miles from my home. Roads that I am familiar with.  I have had a course PR for this race every year I have run it. This year, I tried for a sub 30 which I missed.

Skirt Sports Half Marathon. This was virtual but great swag and I got the girls to do it with me.  Lots of fun!  Already signed up for this years race.

Katie DeCubellis Memorial 5K.  This was a last minute decision once George said he wanted to run. The race was wicked hot and at one point I didn't think George would be able to finish.  He did and placed first in his age group.

My first triathlon! Oh My Goddard Sprint Tri.  Well, what can I say, I don't think I was more nervous for any other race, ever.  It was a great time!

Jamestown Half Marathon. Well, I didn't really enjoy this race. I finished but not sure if I would do it again.  Beautiful course and medal, but that is pretty much where it ends.

The Blessing 10 Miler.  Love this race, love the party at Mary's.  Helped a friend this year finish her first Blessing but next year this race is mine!

The Crabman Sprint. Second tri and the one I enjoyed the most out of the two sprints.  I will do this one again. Had a nice PR.  Really enjoyed the bike for this one.

The Rhode Warrior Half Iron Distance Tri.  What can I say. You can read all about it here, here and here.  This race was amazing.  I did not do as well as I hoped but I finished and I will do another HIM.  I learned so much about training and myself during this race and I get teary thinking about it now.  The swim was the highlight of the day. As you know, I learned how to swim in 2014 and getting out of the water that morning and seeing Mr. RWM waiting for me is a moment I will never forget.  Happy I did not give up!

Newport Half Marathon.  Love this race!  I had not really trained for a PR for this race but knew I wanted one.  Again, with Beth as my pacer, I got that PR.  I enjoyed this run, even when I didn't and loved every minute with Beth, even though I was quiet which may have freaked her out.  LOL

The Newport Pell Bridge Run.  This was my fourth year. I got to run with friends and really just had a great time. Not a PR but it was a course PR which was nice.

St. Bernadette Turkey Trot.  Got to run with Diane, which is all I needed for this race. Fun, small race for her daughters school. Well run, nice course and lots of fun!

So, what is in store for 2015? Well, I am pretty certain that I will tackle the Philadelphia Marathon again.  I would like to see what I can do with what I now know about marathons.  I am confident that I can come in under 5:23.

I will also work on my bike and swim and add in a couple sprints.

I don't have a mileage goal, but would like to see a little more consistency with my running week to week.  I ran more last year, but think that is mostly due to marathon training.

So far, I only am registered for one race which is the Broad Street Run in May.  I have some races in mind but will keep you updated as registration open.  My big focus/goal for the year is the marathon.

Narrow River will also be be 5K goal race.  Would like a sub 30 there.

That about covers it.  I would love to hear what your goals are for the year.  Feel free to share them here or on my FB page.  

I wish you all a healthy and happy new year, filled with love and many miles.

Run Strong, Think Big! ~ Nicole

A Few December Things

I think for most people, December can be very stressful.  Lots of things to do.  Shopping, baking, visits with Santa, town tree lightings and caroling.  Our calendars are full and so many of us rush through the day.

I am way ahead of the game this year. I think, for the first time ever. Cards have already been sent, most gifts have been purchased and the ones that get mailed are on their way.  I am calm and very relaxed.

Today, I had just a couple errands to do and I added in a manicure.  I sat and relaxed and talked to the people around me.  It was a very enjoyable 45 minutes. Everyone around me got very pretty reds polished on their nails.  I went with black. I just like really dark colors and that one called to me today.  The name of the color is 4am by OPI.

Before that, I went and had my eye brows and bikini waxed.  I have been going to Faces by Gia for about five years now and she recently moved to a new location.  I was very impressed with her new spot at Bonnet Shears.  In just three weeks, she went in there and remolded and updated the space to a place you can really feel at peace at.  I am so happy for you Gia and know that you will have much success there.  If you are local, I highly suggest you check out the new digs.

You would think that being almost ready for Christmas, I would have more time to run. Well, I do, but I am not.  I am running don't get me wrong, but December is my "take it easy month".  I am finished with all my races for the year. I am starting to think about races for 2015 and basically, I just run when I feel like it.  And that hasn't been a lot.

I am not worried. Things will pick back up in January as I will be running a half marathon in March.  I will be ready but for the next couple weeks, I am just going to run when I want to and enjoy not having the pressure that training can sometimes put on you.

We have family coming in for the holiday and I am so excited I can't calm down. I love giving out presents and think I got some good ones this year for our family and friends.  Speaking of presents, I got to give my first one out today.  It was for Gia.  Just a little something to say, Thank you for making me look good throughout the year.  You just can't see someone every few weeks and not get to know and love them over five-plus years.

But presents is not what it is all about.  Being together, sharing stories, food and drinks is what makes me happiest.  Gracie will be in the pageant at our church on Christmas Eve.  I look forward to that every year.  I love the story and the music that comes along with celebrating Jesus's birth.  She is very excited!

And then of course, there is New Year's Eve. My favorite night of the year. I can't wait to have our little get together and count down to 2015.  I may or may not do the Pier Plunge this year. I think I will wait and see if George brings it up and just do it if he wants to.

So tell me, are you ready for the holidays?  Do you send cards?  Any traditions you want to share?  Are you feeling stressed or just dealing with it day by day?  Do you have running themed decorations?

My newest ornament.

One last thing, I saw this today which made me laugh out loud. I don't really do resolutions but if you do, I hope you stick with it.  Set your goal and go after it.  If there is anything I can do to help you reach your goal, please let me know.

Run Strong, Think Big! ~ Nicole


Oh and I almost forgot! I got a sneak peek at the spring line at Skirt Sports.  Trust me when I tell you, you can't wait to see it!  

Thanksgiving and a Turkey Trot

The last several years, I have had Thanksgiving at my house.  This year, my mom wanted to host it at her place so we headed to New Jersey early Thanksgiving morning.

When we knew we would be traveling for the holiday, I started to look for different races in the area since I would be missing the one I usually do here in Newport, RI.

The race I had my eye on was in Philadelphia's Fairmont Park.  The original plan was to drive the night before Thanksgiving and that would get us in about midnight or later.  I was pretty sure I would feel terrible having to get up so early and run a five mile race.

My friend Diane said she was running a 5k Turkey Trot on Saturday and invited me to run that one with her.  I jumped on it.  I was so happy to have found a race but most of all, I was going to run with Diane again.

Thanksgiving was wonderful. The food was delicious but most importantly, we were all together.  I ate so much, I didn't even have room for pie. No lie. I skipped the pie.  The next day, I had two pieces for lunch. Sorry, I am not sorry!

My sister and I.

My beautiful mom.

Mom and sis cooking.

Mr. RWM carving the turkey.

Pie!

Me, Uncle Jerry and Mr. RWM.

Mom, kids, sister and Arrow the dog.

Pop-pop and kids.

After my pie, we took the kids to see the Penguins of Madagascar and there I ate way too much popcorn.  The movie was very funny.

That evening, Mr. RWM and I went out with my sister and her boyfriend.  I had beer, beef fries and Hawaiian nachos. Do you see where I am going yet?

I knew my stomach would give me problems once I started running.

Getting to the race was easy.  I was so happy to see Diane.  This was a very small race put on by her daughters school.  Very kid friendly.  I was sorry mine were not with me.  We stayed in the church hall as long as possible to stay warm.  It was a bit cooler than I thought it would be.  I was happy to have my hat, gloves and jacket.

Diane and I with the NESQUIK Bunny.

Us and the school mascot.

Ready to run.

I knew nothing about this course. Turns out it was full of hills and turns.  However, we ran though a neighborhood with some very beautiful homes.  It wasn't the hardest course I have run, but it wasn't the easiest either.  I think it was the perfect challenge for me.

We went out a little fast and ended up with a 9:50 mile.  I had no real goal for this race but figured I would finish at about 32:00.

By the end of mile one, my stomach was laughing at me.  My legs felt really good though. Diane was running great and I knew I was holding her back.  Miles two 10:39.

I pulled myself together in mile three.  Not feeling my best, but better. Diane started to pull ahead of me.  I stayed just a few seconds behind her.  She looked great! 10:08 for mile three.

Last turn and you can see the finish.  It ends on an uphill.  Not a huge hill but enough that I just had to laugh out loud.  Hill or not,  I knew I wanted to finish strong.  Final stretch, 9:59.

Not a PR for me.  The official time was 31:22 and I am happy with that.  Diane did have a PR and I was thrilled for her.

Diane finishing strong!

I am in the pink hat.

Finish!

Mr. RWM and I stayed and watched the awards and enjoyed a little extra time with Diane and her family.  I would do this race again if I am able.  Nice course, well run, Philly pretzels at the end.  What more can you ask for?  Thanks for inviting me Diane!

This 5K is officially my last race of the year.  I ran seventeen races this year.  Still planning on running less races next year, but some are just so easy to say yes too.

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Did you run a Turkey Day race?

Run Strong, Think Big! ~ Nicole

Skirt Sports Ambassador

It's no secret that I love running in skirts.  That wasn't always the case.

When I first stared running, I didn't even know there was such a thing. A skirt made for running didn't make sense to me.

As I was "becoming" a runner, I read books, blogs and random FB posts all about running.  I started seeing more and more women running in skirts. They all looked damn cute too!

My first skirts came from Marshall's.  They were cute but not really functional.  They are hanging in my closet waiting for a good home.

Then I ordered three skirts from a better known skirt company but found that the sizing was off and the pockets were too small.  They too are hanging in my closet waiting for a good home.

I don't know how I discovered Skirt Sports.  But once I did, I knew I found the skirt that would work for me.  Sizing was right on and the pockets fit more than what I needed.  And cute, well yeah, you have seen my pictures.

Now, I don't always run in a skirt. Today it was 33 degrees on my run. Luckily, Skirt Sports also makes pants, capris, tanks, short and long sleeve shirts, bras, and socks.  I have tried them all and have never been disappointed.  There is something for everyone.

I know there is a lot of controversy among the skirt lovers and the non skirt lovers.  But honestly who cares.  Run in what you love and just keep moving forward.

Now, the skirt is only as good as the shorts underneath. If the shorts move, ride up, then that will make for a miserable run.  My Skirt Sports stay put. I never have to adjust them. I have run numerous races and distances in them, including a marathon and never once was the skirt an issue.

I have been pretty vocal on their FB page and Instagram. I have helped promote some of their races and giveaways and now, I am excited to announce that I have been asked to be one of their Ambassadors.  What an honor!

I am now part of a team of women who will inspire and motivate runners everywhere.  Included in this group you will find Kathrine Switzer,  Jenny Hadfield, and Rachel Toor.  Yeah, I am just a little ecstatic here.

I am looking forward to getting to know all of them. I know for some it will just be virtually but I am sure there will be opportunities to meet and run with some of them in person.  That, I am really looking forward to.

You can read about each of the ambassadors here.

So what does being an ambassador mean? Well, I get to spread the love of the skirt to everyone I know. I get to help promote their awesome races and products.  And I have discounts to share with you!

If you are lucky enough to live close enough to do one of their actual races, well, I have to admit, I may be a little jealous.  However, for those of us who can't be there in person, we can still run together, virtually.  Here is the link to the races they have coming up.  I will be signing up for all of them.  I will keep you updated on all the events as they come up.

For those of you who are ready to sign up now and start training, you can us RWM25AMB to get 25% off your race entry.  Don't worry, you still get the full gift certificate even with the discount.  Can you say awesome deal!

Now for those of you who are just here for the pictures, this is for you.

Cutest little running girl ever in her Skirt Sports Dress!

Gym Girl

Vixen Capri

Tri Tank and Tri Shorts

Tri Tank and Tri Shorts

Gym Girl and Eclipse Tank for me and Beth is in a Gym Girl and Tri Tank.

Gym Girl

Gym Girl

Free Me Long Sleeve and Lotta Breeze Capri

Runners Dream long sleeve

Redemption Capri

Gym Girl and Eclipse Tank

So there you have it! These are a few of my favorites.  Are you a skirt lover? Share your pictures with me on my FaceBook page.  Let me know which races you will be doing so I can run "with" you.

If there is anything you want to know about Skirt Sports, please don't hesitate to ask. There are just a couple products I haven't tried yet, so if I don't know the answer, I will find out for you.

And just an FYI, I am officially registered the the Philadelphia Broad Street run. I have been eyeing this race for some time now and so excited to be doing it in 2015. I joined Andy's team and we are raising money for the American Cancer Society DetermiNation team.  Happy to be fundraising again!  Anyone else planing on Broad Street?  I would love to meet you!

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving.  Who is running a Thanksgiving race? I will be running a 5k the Saturday after Thanksgiving.  It should be a really fun time!

Run Strong, Think Big! ~ Nicole

What's Just One More Race

Yeah, so you know how I said I was finished with races this year? Well, I am not.  I just registered for race number seventeen.  I know, I know, what the hell was I thinking?  Well, I wanted to do a fun race on Thanksgiving morning.  I couldn't make that work but my friend Diane said she was running a 5K at her daughters school the Saturday after Thanksgiving.  I wanted to run and I wanted to see Diane.  So, that's it. I registered.

What is the definition of a race addict? I don't think I am addicted to racing, I just want to see my friends.  It seems that this is the easiest way.  I still plan on toning it down for next year, but I know I won't be able to say, "no", to these fun races with friends. Especially the friends I only get to see once a year.

Mr. RWM will come with me and the kids will be with my parents. Kids are psyched for that.  I can't really say what I plan to do, race it or not.  I think I will just see how I feel in the morning and take Diane's lead.  Plus, I know nothing about the course.

The last several runs have all been good.  No pressure runs.  Today, the fog was killer but it was fun to run in.  It got hot and I was dressed to warm. Hoping it stays warm the next couple days. I have new shorts from Skirt Sports that I want to try out.

You can't even see the Towers behind the the surfers.

So tell me, how many races do you typically run a year? How do you choose what ones you want to do?  

Run Strong, Think Big! ~ Nicole

Because Volunteering in a Nor'easter is Fun!

I belong to a running group that I really never run with.  It's not that I don't like them, in fact, there are a few that I would really like to get to know better.  It's a timing thing. I don't run very early in the morning, which most of them do, and my long runs are usually done on a Monday.  They have a fun run on Thursday night that I have been able to do in the past, but now it is filled with Gymnastics with Gracie.

When they announced that they will be organizing a half marathon in our town and were looking for help, I jumped on it.  I was able to attend most of the meetings and gather some of the gift cards for the prize table that we had for the people who placed in their age group.  Thank you to my friends who donated!

Knowing the race was going to be well run and on a beautiful course that I am more than familiar with, I had to decide if I wanted to run it or just help and volunteer that morning.  I really went back and fourth with this because I really did want to run it.  However, once I finished my sixteenth race of the year and fourth half marathon, five if you include the HIM, I just decided that I didn't need another race. I was good.

I was assigned water stop B. This was a stop on both sides of the street that ends up being mile four and mile 10.

The race had an 11 o'clock start and I had to check in by ten. I was early, so I helped point runners in the right direction to check in.  It was nice that we were able to do this in the hotel and there was plenty of room for everyone to stay in there to keep warm.  The weather was not good. So cold, rain and wind.

Once more volunteers showed up, I had one help me load my truck and we took the supplies to our water stop to start the set up.  Man it was cold. The wind was blowing cups all over the place.  My gloves got wet and my hands started to freeze. I was really mad that I didn't bring my warmer gloves.

One of the volunteers at my stop, had a pop-up tent in her car. With a little help, we got it up and found large rocks to hold it in place. It was so nice to stand under it and wait. Especially, when it started to rain and snow at the same time.

Under the tent and smiling.

Once we saw the first runner, and ultimately the winner of the race, the fun started!  I loved seeing everyone run by and cheer them on. This was not a good running day.  People had to really dig deep to keep moving forward.  The last runner was basically a walker, and once she passed mile four, the lead runners were hitting mile ten.  Some of them at this point, had pained looks on their faces.  This is tough under normal conditions, here they were battling wind, cold, rain and snow.  I was inspired by each and every one of them.  I was also amazed by my fellow volunteers. No complaints, we just did what we had to do and it was a wonderful experience.

One of the highlights, I have to admit, was when the race director arrived with hot chocolate for all of us.  Man, that really hit the spot!

People started cleaning up as we were nearing the end.  We had people driving the course and was told just about twenty more runners to go.  I actually started counting as they passed by.  I was also so happy to see that most of them still had smiles on their faces.  I am not so sure I would have.

I think for the most part, we are a tough and crazy bunch of people.  My thoughts went to my friends running NYC.  They also dealt with cold, rain and wind but for 26.2 miles.  They all had fantastic races!

Once the final runner passed us, we hopped in our warm cars and heading back to the hotel for a pasta lunch.  I was so happy to feel the heat.  I was pleasantly surprised that the food was still hot.  I ate a little and watch the end of the awards ceremony.  I was able to chat with a few friends and then couldn't stand my wet clothes anymore.  I headed home for a hot shower and my fire place.

There's no place like home...

For a first year race, this was a huge success.  There were over 600 people registered and 486 that showed up, braved the elements and finished.  I have been smiling from ear to ear reading all the great comments on the Gansett Half FB page.  I am sure this will just get better and better every year.

I hope I can be involved with this race again next year. I may even run it.

Did you run Gansett today?  Have you ever volunteered?  You should!

Run Strong, Think Big! ~ Nicole