Run Streak: Two Years

Two years, 104 weeks, 730 days.  That’s how long I’ve been running at least a mile everyday.  They say time flies when you’re having fun and that's definitely true!  How has it been two years already?!  When I finished my first year, I didn’t have a plan.  I knew I would keep running, but figured I would stop eventually.  But I haven’t stopped.  I keep running and without a doubt, I wouldn’t have made it through the last year without these things: 

ProCompression Socks

If you follow me on social media, you’ve seen me #KeepItTight with ProCompression on a regular basis.  It’s safe to say we’re exclusive—I wear them when I run, when I travel, when I work and when I’m not running (there are times I even sleep with them!).  Not only do they make all the fun designs, the graduated compression helps me with muscle fatigue and muscle recovery.  I won’t lie and say my legs are never tired—let’s be real, I run every day.  But I know without a doubt, my streak wouldn’t have lasted this long if I didn’t wear my Pros. And it’s a lot more fun to run with all the colors- you know my favorite is #TwoPairDontCare. 

Purpose

As an athlete for Team Run Far, I am reminded every time I run that I am running for something much bigger than me.  There are days I struggle, when I don’t want to run, when I wonder if the streak will end and I try to find every excuse not to run.  Then I am reminded why I run—each day 22 US Military Veterans take their own life and leave behind loved ones, many times children.  Those children are why I run. By raising awareness for Run Far, I am helping provide scholarships to the children of US Veterans who have taken their own life through the Sergeant Sean Northcutt Scholarship.  So on those days I don’t want to run?  I run for them.  

The Trails

If you follow me on social media, over the past year you have seen me transition from road running to trail running.  When I first started trail running—I was petrified.  What if I fall down a mountain?  What if I get bitten by a snake?  What if I get lost?  But now I embrace all those things I was petrified of. I’ve fallen.  I’ve seen snakes (but by no means want to get bitten by one!) And getting lost? It’s my favorite thing to do!  Being out on the trails gives me a sense of peace I don’t find with road running.  It makes me feel like me, a self that doesn’t need explanation.  The trails are where I find balance when it doesn’t seem possible. I still enjoy a good road run and know they have a place in my training.  But life is definitely better with some dirt beneath my feet. 

The Running Community

I am blessed to know some amazing runners through social media and in real life.  But beyond being amazing runners, they are also amazing people.  They inspire me everyday and their continued encouragement and support is everything.  Not a day goes by that I don’t get a message from one of these people, whether it’s with a silly joke or with a “you’ve got this!” Life came at me pretty hard this past year and I am beyond grateful for the love and support that has surrounded me—words truly can not express how much it has meant to me. 

A run streak isn’t for everyone—I started in 2016 with the plan of running one month and just kept going.  It isn’t always fun, but the fun days out number the un-fun ones.  I still don’t like the amount of laundry it creates but love coming up with new running outfits.  Some days I run the one mile, most days I run more. It’s a balance and now the question is what’s next?  My new goal is 1,000 days- only 270 days to go!

If you’ve ever thought about doing a run streak, go check out Pinkcupcakegirl on Instagram and see how you can be a part of this year’s #StreakingWithTheCoolKids—it starts tomorrow! 

Until next time, happy running!
Jenn 13.1 

Mesa-Phoenix Marathon Race Weekend

Have you ever run a race and thought to yourself when you finished, “I’m never doing that again!”  For me, the marathon was that race.  In 2016 I ran the LA Marathon and it was not the experience I had hoped for—I was undertrained (completely my fault!), got injured during the race, had a bloody nose during the race and cried when it was over, not of joy but of frustration and disappointment.  I took some time off from running after that race until I started my Run Streak and during 2017 focused on distance and Ultras.  But it in the back of my mind, there was always that little voice telling me I needed to redeem myself in a marathon.  So a few months ago when my friend Justin asked me if I wanted to run the Mesa-Phoenix Marathon, I said yes.

Friends make running more fun!

The race was on a Saturday so I decided that I would drive to Arizona on Friday morning, hit up the expo and hang out for the #WeRunSocial meet-up.  The weather in Southern California has been a bit odd this winter and I actually had snow on my drive through the mountains.  I made my way to Arizona in good time, checked into my hotel and headed over to the expo.  My only other marathon expo experience was the LA Marathon and that expo was huge! The expo for this race wasn’t that big, but I did see some of my favorite brands and even scored an awesome deal on a pair of Altra shoes.  After picking up my bib and shirt, I had some time before the meet-up so grabbed some lunch at a nearby restaurant.  As I was making my way back to the expo, I heard, “TwoPairDontCare and a We Run Social hat—you must be Jenn!”  This is how I met Elle—if you don’t follow her on social media, you should.  She’s so much fun!  

Elle!

We made our way to the meet-up—it’s always fun to catch up with people I only see at races and meet new people.  If there is ever a #WeRunSocial meet-up at a race you’re running, go!  It’s one of my favorite parts of race weekends. After the meet-up, it was time to head back to my hotel, put together my flat runner and get some sleep. 

 

#FlatJenn ready to run!

I woke up race morning ready to go—I’m an early bird so I arrived in plenty of time to find parking and catch the bus to the start line.  I had plans to meet some friends at the buses, but they both got stuck in race traffic so the plan shifted to meeting at the start line.  (parking and race morning traffic can be a bit of a cluster so if you ever run this race, I would definitely get there early)  The start line was up a mountain and despite my extra layers, it was cold!  Thank goodness for the bonfires and heaters they had set up for us.  I had worn a throw away sweatshirt and pants—I ditched the pants shortly before the 6:00am start but decided I would start with my sweatshirt on.  I’ve never started a race wearing a sweatshirt but it was definitely a smart decision—I ended up tossing it between miles one and two.



Always have fun!

One of the things I was most excited about for this race were the views, but with the 6:00am start, it was dark and once the sun came up, the views were residential areas and businesses.  I was also excited about the downhill aspect of this race—I love downhills.  There were definitely downhills, but not quite what I was expecting.  Overall, I would say this course is flat.  The course is a little boring and there weren’t a lot of spectators, but I was running with friends so that made it a good time.  The aide stations also seemed to get a little more sparse in the second half of the race which surprised me since that portion of the course saw both the full marathon and half marathon runners.  I was also surprised at what seemed to be the lack of medical support on the course—I did not see any medic tents or anything available at the aide stations.  (I also wasn’t looking for it, so maybe it was there, but usually that stuff is quite visible) There were a few fire trucks parked alone the course so maybe that was the medical support.  Overall, this race is pretty organized.  The pre-race communication was on point and the volunteers were amazing! (Have “traffic” control at the pre-race porta potties is a big plus for me! No confusion as to whose turn it is)  The medal is simple, but I like it.  (and kind of wish I had started this race two years ago so I could earn the star)  I think the race shirt is really basic, but do like that it’s a tank.  I would definitely do this race again and would encourage other people to do it.

 

 

I went into this race with one goal—do better than the LA Marathon.   My time was less than stellar there so I knew it was possible but I also know that I’m very much a mental runner and didn’t want to be over confident.  I ended up taking  98 minutes off my LA Marathon time!  I was stoked (and am still on my runner’s high as I type this!)  I run every day, but didn’t specifically train for this. I stopped a few times during the race for pictures and to talk to people.  I had a blast.  And better yet, I had the redemption I wanted.  And a renewed desire to see what I can do if I train and push myself a little harder.  This is the first race in a long time that I was truly happy with everything I did on race day and that is one of the best feelings!

After the race, the ProCompression ambassadors that were in town for the race met up for lunch and it was a blast!  ProCompression rocks my socks and I love being a part of this group—it was great to talk with everyone in person.  I can’t wait to do this again!



They rock my socks!

I also had a chance to meet Run Far founder CJ and his wife Mallory for dinner that night.  What I didn’t know is that Hannah, the first recipient of the Run Far Sergeant Sean Northcutt scholarship, would be there. (See Hannah’s story here)  And fellow Run Far Ambassador David joined us to!  So much inspiration at one table full of all the feels. I even got to "meet" Hannah's mom as she FaceTimed in.  It was the best way to end such a good day! I am grateful to be a part of such an awesome organization.



Run Far



 

Sunday morning I woke up early to head back to San Diego.  One of my favorite things about road trips is exploring so I made some stops, ran some trails, stopped for lunch at a cute little small town restaurant and took my time getting home. 

 

Never stop exploring!

The only bad thing about this race weekend is that it had to end.  It was such a good time full of good running, good people and good vibes.  I am so grateful to all the people who were a part of it, from those at the meet-ups to the people who sent me messages of encouragement and support.  I truly believe that the people are what makes running so amazing.

What makes running amazing for you?

Until next time, happy running!

Jenn13.1

 

 

 

 

Inaugural San Diego Beach & Bay Half Marathon

Living in San Diego, I frequently run on the coast exploring the beaches and bays.  When I heard about the Inaugural San Diego Beach & Bay Half Marathon and 5K, I knew I wanted to check it out.  Run somewhere I do a lot of my training runs at and get a medal for it? Sign me up!  I went into the race knowing there might be a few glitches since it was in its first year, but also knew the views would make up for any of those.  With two distance options, I decided to run the half marathon.    

Like all races, I knew there were going to be things I loved and things that I feel can be improved for the next year’s race.  The things I loved about this race were:

Bib Pick-Up
You had two options for bib pick-up, either picking it up the day prior or race day (with no additional charge).  I like to have my bib before going to a race so opted for the day before.  It was scheduled to start at 2:30pm and I was pleasantly surprised when I arrived at 2:00pm and it was already in full swing.  It was quick and easy- organized with friendly volunteers and people ready to answer any questions you had.  It had a mini-expo feel to it as there were also vendor booths, free beer samples and discounts available for the running store it was at.   

Race Start Time
The Half Marathon started at 6:30am and as an early runner, I loved it!  It meant waking up super early, especially since I was car pooling with Smitha and we were getting there early.  But it also meant that I had a fantastic nap that afternoon and I never miss an opportunity for a good nap.  

The Course
The beach is one of my favorite places to run and this course did not disappoint. The views were pretty and even the “ugly” parts of the course were pretty.  It even took me through some parts of the bay/beach that I’ve never explored by foot.  It was also clearly marked and there were volunteers to direct us at all the important turns. 

The Volunteers
I know that a big part of races being successful is the volunteers and they were awesome for this event, from bib pick-up to the finish line.  And the big shout out to the volunteer just after mile 3—spirit fingers and high kicks with shouts of encouragement definitely added a little pep to my step.  

The Swag
From the medal to the post race snacks, they took care of us for the half. I also loved that they have a v-neck shirt for the women's shirt-- I appreciate when races have the different shirts as I am not a fan of the any unisex shirts fit me. (You were able to pick your shirt fit/size in case you do prefer a different fit)

Race Guards
I have said it in previous recaps, but it’s worth repeating.  I love races that use Race Guards.  I feel safer on my run knowing that first aid is readily available should I need it.  During the race, I did see a few injured runners and the response from Race Guards was on point.  A big kudos to all the Race Guards who volunteer their time to make sure the runners have a safe race.  

The Post Race Experience
I don’t often hang out after races, but this way too fun to miss.  There were booths with samples, fun picture opportunities, live music, food trucks and a beer garden.  Fun for the whole family!   

The Brew Dr. Kombucha Samples were so good! 

With so many good things about this race, there were just a few things that I think can be improved upon for next year.  

Aide Stations
The weather in San Diego during May is a little unpredictable and when I saw earlier in the week the expected highs for the coast on race day was 80 degrees, I knew it was going to be a hot race.  I kept my fingers crossed for an overcast morning, but that didn’t happen—there wasn't a cloud in sight.  I know the heat is not a controllable factor, but I definitely felt it.  I do carry my own hydration, but also use the hydration on the course to make sure I will have enough for the entire race.  If I didn’t have my own hydration with me, I wouldn’t have had enough with just relying on the race’s aide stations.  In my opinion, there could have been at least one or two more stations on the course.  There were also a couple stations that were set far back off the course and it was a bit congested as people had to walk off the course to get the water and walk back on after getting their water.  I don’t know if I would feel this way if the weather wasn’t as warm as it was, however I would rather err on the side of having too much hydration than not enough.  

The Course
Yes, above I said that I loved the course, but there were a couple things I didn’t love about it.  Other than the portions run on the road, the course was not closed to the public.  This meant that we were sharing the course with other people out running, walking,  or riding their bikes. This caused quite a bit of congestion at the parts where the course narrowed and it was a safety issue a few times when I saw runners almost hit by people on bikes or have to come to a sudden stop when the walkers in front of them suddenly stopped.  There were a few times I saw people cutting the course and I think this might have been in reaction to getting around the other people out there. I’m glad that people are out enjoying the sites of San Diego and quite frequently I am one of those people so I don’t know what the solution is to this.  I imagine it would be hard to get permits to close an entire beach boardwalk or path.  Maybe next year, they can have a few more volunteers dispersed to help with “traffic control.”  

Race Photographers
This is the first half marathon I've run that hasn't had race photographers. At the very least, I thought I'd see one at the finish line- if this was my first half, I'd definitely want a finish line photo.  With so many pretty views, there was definitely great scenery for awesome running shots.    

UPDATE: The race organizers sent out an e-mail to all the runners and the lack of photographers was not due to the race organizers- the contracted photographers did no show up for the event.  I'm looking forward to seeing if there are any photos of me in the ones that will be made available to us and I appreciate the race's candidness about the situation.  

From the email sent out

With this being the Inaugural year of this event, I wasn’t sure what to expect so I went to into with a very open mind.  Overall I had a lot of fun (even if it didn’t feel like it at the time—I am not a fan of hot weather running and my time definitely showed that) Despite the few things that I feel can be improved upon, I would love to run this race again.  It will be fun to see if they do any type of legacy status for the upcoming years of this event.  

Have you ever run an Inaugural race?  Did you run it again?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1

Disclaimer: I received my race entry in exchange for promotion of the event, however all thoughts and opinions are my own.  

Adventure Awaits--Jenn13.1 to 50K

I love to run.  If someone asks, "Do you want to go for a run,?" I don't hesitate to reply with a giant "Yes!"  I love what it has done for my health, I love the amazing people I've met through running and I love the way it challenges me.  Yet, even with all this love, I was beginning to miss the level of excitement I used to have with running.  I was increasing my pace and increasing my distance, but something was missing.  

Too early for holiday themed memes?!

When I started my Run Streak this summer, some of my runs included "new to me" places, many of which were trails.  I loved the trails and had a blast every time I ran them.  I was also watching the journeys of my friends who were training for ultra races and it intrigued me.  I did some research and thought about it-- I decided I wanted to run an Ultra.  I finally found something that got me excited about running. 

Running the trails of Mount Laguna.

After looking at Ultra races next year and talking to some people about various races, I have decide to run the Leona Divide 50K in April 2017.  One of my biggest downfalls when I ran my first marathon (and only) was that I did not properly train.  I am changing that for this new adventure and will be working with Jenn from Sole Health and Wellness.  I've worked with her in the past and she is great at what she does-- she's tough enough to get me to do the work but not so tough that I dread doing it.  That is exactly what I need.  She's also run ultras so she will not only have the knowledge of all her credentials but also from her experience.  She just ran her first 100K-- how awesome is that?!

With Jenn and Smitha before the LA Marathon. 

I don't expect this experience to be easy but I'm excited about it.  If I'm being completely honest, I have some "fears" about it, primarily seeing critters on the trails or falling. But I've decided that my dreams are bigger than my fears and I can't wait for April.  

My training officially starts on Sunday, October 23rd.  I'm looking forward to sharing my journey with you as I go from Jenn13.1 to 50K.

Have you ever run an ultra?  Any advice for a newbie?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1

Run Streak- Day 100

A few weeks ago, I posted about my run streak.  (If you missed that post, you can read it here.) At that time, I said my plan was to streak for 100 days.  Well today, I reached 100 days-- here are some of the things I've enjoyed most about the streak.

#RUN619

A couple months ago, the local running Store Movin' Shoes started a Friday morning running group.  We meet at Heartwork Coffee Bar at 6:19am, run a few miles, have coffee and then continue onto our Fridays.  This Friday morning run has become one of my favorites.  The miles are always great and the other runners have pushed me to be a stronger, faster runner.  It's a great group of people who are supportive of every runner with us, regardless of pace.  And who doesn't like to start their Friday with a good cup of coffee?!  If you're ever in the San Diego area on a Friday morning, join us!

Trail Running
In the past 100 days, I've run more trails than I have the entire time I've been running.  I'm discovering a love of trail running-- it's the perfect combination of running and the beautiful trails in San Diego County.   



Running Happy

Before I started my run streak, I felt as though I had reached a fork in the road with my running-- I wasn't loving it as much as I had been and I needed to make a decision on which way to go.  With my run streak, it made that decision easier-- I had to run.  Soon enough the idea that "I have to run" changed into "I get to run."  I was enjoying the run again.  I was running happy.

So I've reached the 100th day of my Run Streak-- I've run at least one mile every day for the past 100 days. 100 days, 433 miles.  Now what?


I'm going to keep on streaking.  When I originally started my streak, I said 30 days.  That changed to 50 which then changed to 100.  I've decided that until I'm unable to, I'm going to keep running. 


Until next time, happy running!
Jenn13.1

America's Finest City Half Marathon Recap

Earlier in the year I ran the Carlsbad Half Marathon and the La Jolla Half Marathon-- both races are part of the Triple Crown race series, so it seemed silly not to run the final race, America's Finest City Half Marathon.  I had never run AFC, but all I'd ever heard about it is that it's hot and there's a hill at mile 11. 

Packet pick-up was either Friday or Saturday before the race-- I took an impromptu trip to Disneyland on Friday, so headed to the expo on Saturday.  (They do offer a race day pick-up for a fee). I didn't spend a lot of time at the expo-- getting the bib and shirt were easy.  They also give you a nice reusable shopping bag which I like.  I took a quick look at the expo-- there was a good representation of vendors and if I had more time, I would have definitely checked out a few of the booths.  

#FlatJenn with all of my favorite things.

This year's race had an earlier start time than previous years-- I'm one of those runners who loves early race starts, so I was happy with this.  The race starts at Cabrillo National Monument and the only way to the start line is via shuttle from Balboa Park (the finish area).  The shuttles were running from 4:00am to 5:30am and I was a little nervous since this was my first time doing this race.  I arrived to the shuttle around 4:15am-- I was suprised that there were several other people who were just as early.  The shuttle took about 30 minutes to get us to the start line.  The start area was in a parking lot-- they had gear check and a water station.  I used the extra time to catch up on social media and read a book.  At 6:00am I was standing in line to use the restroom and all of a sudden we heard the National Anthem.  There was a little bit of "oh no, is it 6:30am already?!" in the line, then we quickly realized that it was just being played/sung early. (I couldn't see the start line platform so I'm not sure if it was a recording or a live person-- either way, it was good rendition).  While in line for the restroom, I met Jerry who is a legacy runner for this race-- he has run AFC for 39 years.  How awesome is that?! After I used the restroom, I headed to the start line area.  We weren't officially put into corrals, but they did have time flags posted and people seemed to be placing themselves accordingly.  Promptly at 6:30am, we heard a horn blow and we were off.  

The course runs down the road leading up to Cabrillo National Monument-- there were a few places that it was so congested with runners, it was almost comical.  We quickly made our race towards Fort Rosecrans National cemetery--I'm a little quirky about cemeteries, but I will say that running by it while the sun was rising in the distance was beautiful! If you are ever in San Diego, both of these places should be on your "visit" list.  

We continued the course down towards Point Loma and I was suprised at the residential area we ran through.  I don't look at course maps so this was a pleasant surprise.  San Diego spectators are awesome and always come out for races-- there were shots of tequila, kids giving out high-fives and people offering us sprays with their hose to help beat the heat.  (And now keeping it honest-- around mile 6, I had to use the restroom again.  I'm not sure if I overhydrated on Saturday or pre-race, but it is what it is.  And I wasn't the only one-- it was about a ten minute wait in line.) After my pit stop, we made our way to Harbor Island (yay for a misting station at mile 8) and towards the Navy Pier.  After I found my way back to the course, I was ready to go.  I run near the Navy Pier quite frequently for #RUNch, but it's always a beautiful run. During this portion of the race, I got dizzy so I slowed down. I don't get dizzy often, so it made me a little nervous.  I'd rather run smart and it really is a beautiful area to run. Seriously, if you're ever in San Diego, run here.

Around mile 10, we made a turn and started into downtown towards Balboa Park.  The group at mile 10 was awesome-- they had a misting station, people spraying us with hoses and grilled hamburgers-- I didn't have one, but they sure smelled good! I had been warned about the upcoming hill and it was a little sneaky.  As you head up Broadway, you think "this is the hill" until you turn onto 6th Avenue. 

I surprised myself and pushed up the hill-- it wasn't steep, but it was long.  I actually enjoyed the challenge and realized I definitely need to add more hill training to my runs.  After the hill, we made our way across into the Prado area of Balboa Park.  The bridge was lined with American Flags and I loved this.  Then a quick turn around the corner and we were finished.  

Race Shirt and Medal

After crossing the finish line and getting my AFC medal, I made my way down the finishers chute which seemed to go on forever, but it was worth it when there was cold chocolate milk waiting for us at the end.  I then found the Triple Crown tent to get my medal and waiting in line to take the Triple Crown picture.  I had planned ahead and brought my medals from the first two races.   The finish area was a lot of fun-- a live band, vendors and just a great buzz of activity.  After taking some pictures and handling out a bit, I headed home. 

Overall, I had a great experience at AFC.  The weather was great. There were some beautiful sections of the course-- epic blogger fail that I didn't get pictures.  There were plenty of water stations and the volunteers were awesome.  Every volunteer I encountered was so supportive- that's not always the case with volunteers so it was definitely appreciated.  I loved seeing local running groups out there too supporting us-- it's nice to see familiar faces out on the race course.  

I loved completing the Triple Crown challenge.  Each race offers something unique and is challenging in it's own way and who doesn't love extra bling?! 

Have you every completed a multi race challenge?

Until next time, happy running.
Jenn13.1 

Let's Go Streaking!

In the middle of May, I saw a post on Instagram that talked about #StreakingWithTheCOOLKIDS.  A  fun challenge for the month of June, hosted by @PinkCupcakeGirl, the idea was to run or walk at least one mile for every day during the month of June.  I had other friends who were going to participate, so I thought "why not?"  I honestly didn't anticipate making it the whole month-- I thought I'd get through about a week and then life would take over.

Guess what-- life didn't take over.  I ran at least one mile every day in June (I actually started my streak on May 31st).  Before this streak, I had never reached the 100 mile total for a month-- in June I ran 126.2 miles.  And when June ended, I continued.  I ran ever day during the month of July and ended the month running a total of 140 miles.  

I'm lucky to have amazing views when I run.

It is now August and I am now on day 71 of my run streak.  I not only made it through June, but I haven't stopped.  For the past 71 days, I have run at least one mile every day.  Some of the miles have been run solo.  Some have been run with friends.  Some have been run in races (three half marathons, a 12K and an 8 miler).  Some have been run in groups.  Not every mile has been easy, not every mile has been fast, but every mile has been run-- one step at a time.

I love my Friday #RUN619 run group!

My run streak has taught me lessons I never anticipated from running.  I realized that "having no time" was an excuse I used to frequently-- I can find 10 minutes a day to run a mile.  I am strong- even on the days I was tired, my legs still carried me and when my legs struggled, my heart took over. I also learned that the running community rocks-- I've encountered more runners in the past 71 days and it's awesome to see other people out there doing what they love and I never grow tired of the "runners wave" and smile.

The biggest lesson that I've learned is that I love to run. I had become stagnant in my running and I had forgotten that love.  For people that don't run, I will never to be able to fully explain it.  For people who run, you get it.  When people talk about a "runner's high," it definitely is a real thing.             

Truth be told, most of the people in my life don't understand why I'm streaking, but I also have a great support group of runners who do.   I have such great admiration for other streakers-- for the runners who have run for days, week, months and even years.  I don't know when my streak will end-- my plan right now is to get to 100 days and see how I feel.  I suspect the first day I don't run will be a challenge, more mentally than physically.  Until then, I'm going to keep on running.  

Have you ever streaked?  

Until next time, happy running!

Jenn13.1

Friday Favorites and a Giveaway!

Life has been busy the past two weeks-- my Spring Break flew by and before I knew it, April is here.  I'm looking forward to a great month! (and of course, watching the Boston Marathon)  

Today's post is about some of my favorite things lately.

Running With Friends

Most of my runs are done solo, but it's so much more fun with friends.  I've been lucking enough to run a few times the past couple of weeks with friends.

Beach Days

Living in San Diego, sometimes I take the beach for granted.  I forget how relaxing and peaceful it can be.  I definitely need to go to the beach more often.

Photo Out-Takes

If you've tried to get an action shot when you're running, you know that sometimes you get some fun pictures that aren't great action shots.  My go-to prop is using a rock to prop up my phone and my self timer. 

Race Day Packet Pick-Up

I have a race this weekend and I love that I can get my packet on race morning.  The course is in a beautiful city, but it's about a 45 minute drive for me, so I'm glad that I don't need to make the drive twice this weekend.

ProCompression Lifestyle Socks

Sometimes I don't want to wear my compression socks.  Did you know that ProCompression makes socks that aren't compression, as part of their "Lifestyle" line.  They're the perfect length and super comfy.  

I love the lifestyle socks so much that when I realized I have a duplicate pair, I decided I wanted to share them with you.  I'm giving away a pair of ProCompression's Lifestyle socks with the blue and yellow stripes in size L/XL.*  Just enter in the rafflecopter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

What are some of your Friday favorites?  

Until next time, happy running!
Jenn13.1

*Disclaimer: This giveaway is not sponsored by any company.