My Run In Pictures

The holidays are officially upon us and I’ve decided to celebrate by sponsoring a  special giveaway, featuring some of my favorite local small businesses!  My goals are simple; I’d like to:

• Express my appreciation to the nearly 2000 readers I’ve had since starting this blog (yay!).
• Highlight just a few of the fantastic small businesses that I support. 

So, here’s what the lucky winner will get:

One (size M women’s) Sport Science technical shirt from my favorite local running store, Pacers.   Readers of this blog know how much I love Pacers.  It’s the first place I go for shoes, clothing, gear…and most of all, support/advice.  I’ve been running with the Pacers Distance Training program for several years and absolutely depend on the amazing coaching and comradery.   Pacers provides a personal touch that only a small, local business can achieve…so it’s no surprise they were voted as one of the Competitor Top 4 running stores  in the United States; congrats Pacers!

Two (yes, two!)  running headbands by Happy Medium Crafts.   Expertly constructed with ribbon, elastic, and  a non-slip velvet  lining, these headbands STAY PUT even on the longest runs.  Hang out at the track in Arlington, and you’re sure to see multiple ladies sporting these headbands in a variety of customized colors.  I’ve included both a pink and blue for this package, but if you’re interested in custom ordering others, contact Happy Medium Crafts directly at happymediumcrafts@gmail.com.   One band for $8, two for $15.  It’s a deal!

Lastly, one super-rich lotion bar from Millhouse Candles.  It’s not fancy soap….believe it or not, it’s actually a mini solid lotion cake.  With its unique beeswax-shea-cocoa butter formula, this innovative new product is perfect for soothing dry/cracked skin and (when applied in multiple layers) preventing chaffing on those long winter runs.   At $5 a bar, it’s a great stocking stuffer or gift for your running partner. 

Are you excited?   Entering the contest is easy!  Simply click the comments section on this post and tell me  your favorite race of 2011.  In just a few words, talk about why you loved the run.  One winner will be chosen at random on 20 December, and I’ll ship the package out immediately.  Good luck, and thanks for your support of this blog and small businesses everywhere!

Excited for my long run tomorrow with the Pacers Distance Running Team.  We’re doing 7 miles, following this course from the Iwo Jima Memorial, over the Key Bridge, through Georgetown, then back into VA and down the Mount Vernon Trail. 

With temperatures in the low 40’s tomorrow morning, I plan on wearing (and reviewing) my new Patagonia Better Sweater cap.  I generally use headbands to keep my ears warm on runs, but am definitely looking forward to trying something new!

I know many out there believe in running over lunch.  I’m fond of running to lunch.  

Today I did just over 3 miles, ending up at the new Rabbit Salad and Grill in the Clarendon section of Arlington, VA.   Had the steak and potato salad (I swear, it was a lot healthier than it sounds…tons of spinach) and devil’s food cupcake (ok, not so healthy).  Both were fantastic.  The made-to-order salad was oversized, fresh, and flavorful, and the cupcake was so decadent I had to leave a bite behind.  

An added perk for the running crowd…complimentary cucumber-flavored water.  Super refreshing and a great touch.  I’m already looking forward to my next visit!

Friends of mine rave about the Rock ‘n Roll series.  Nothing like great music to keep you going on long runs.   Now, for the first time ever, the Rock ‘n Roll Marathon and Half is coming to D.C.  The date is March 12, 2012.   If you register by the end of October, you get in at $80 (half) and $95 (full).  Not bad for race+swag+entertainment.   Now, just trying to decide what challenge I’m up for…

http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/usa

I ran my first marathon in these great capris.  They provide excellent compression without being uncomfortable.  The hidden pocket is a nice touch, too.  Can’t beat the price, so get them before they’re gone!

So excited to be running this race for the 4th time!  This year features a new course, starting at Freedom Plaza (I will miss Haines Point…but parking is always crazy there).  It’s fast and fun race for an amazing cause (www.SOME.org).   Two added bonuses: great kids 1-miler before the 5k and a chance to race against some interesting D.C. characters (last year I nearly beat former DHS Secretary Chertoff).   Hope to see you out there!

The “barefoot running” movement is not my thing, but I’ve always really wanted to try a sneaker without the added bulk and structure of a traditional running shoe. 

Enter the Saucony Kinvara. 

This shoe is everything I’ve ever wanted.  It’s lightweight, super comfortable, and allows the runner to really “feel” the terrain without threat of injury from broken glass, road debris, etc.    I’m on my second pair…and have hooked my husband on them, too.  Check ’em out!

I’m partial to small, locally owned businesses…and Pacers is one of the best.   Aside from excellent customer service and community involvement,  Pacers offers some of the best running groups and “fun runs” in the area.