Rumspringa Half Marathon 2016, #5 of 60 by 60

To the finish and beyond!

Sorry, this recap is a bit late, like 3 years late, but better late than never.

I found this race in November 2015 through ultrasignup.com and was excited to find out that:

1. It starts at a brewery
2. Ends at a brewery
3. It starts and ends at a brewery
4. Free beer
5. Not far, about an hour away

Marine Corps Marathon 2016

26.2 miles done! What a fantastic race.

Run with purpose, finish with pride. This was the 2016 slogan of the Marine corps marathon.

After hearing many wonderful stories about this amazing race - the scenic course, highly efficient management, handsome marines everywhere, and how difficult it was, I was drawn to join it. So when the lottery opened in March, I cast my lot. Sadly, the stars did not align for me so I just went shopping for other races.

Months passed and in August, I got a break! I found out that my employer is a sponsor of the mcm kids run and offered limited marathon and 10K registrations to employees. It was first come first served and this time, stars lined up and even jumped over the moon for me.

My first lake swim, what went wrong?

Marsh Creek Lake

It was a beautiful 85F sunny day when I drove 1 1/2 hours to Marsh Creek Park. With the music cranked up and scenic views, I looked forward to being done with this training.

I've taken scuba lessons, gone snorkeling, and ocean swimming many times - no problem, but I don't remember ever swimming in a lake. I expected this swim to be mucky, weedy, and dark. I'll most likely get kicked, but I must remember not to panic.

I survived 7 days fueled only by raw fruits and vegetables, no sugar nor salt

Strawberry picking to kick off our fruitarian life

My 12-year old boy loves to cook and he's very good at it. He can whip things up without a recipe and produce delicious salads, entrees, and desserts. He either sees or tastes something he likes and can mimic it. He and his dad are the kitchen dream team.

Sadly, obesity is an issue with my boys. Hubby experimented with many diets but the only 1 that really worked was group interventions. After 7 successful years, he grew tired of its restrictive nature and gained all 120 lbs back.

You've heard of runners high, but have you ever experienced a volunteer's high?

Earned a shirt but not the medal.

No doubt that giving your time to benefit others in need is truly rewarding. But today, I felt extra special. After spending about 3 hours helping out in a triathlon, I learned some things that will help me with my first triathlon.

Transition area.

8 Things I Learned When I Gave Up Alcochol for Lent

Merlot and various cheeses.

This seems late but the truth is, I abstained from alcohol beyond Lent for a total of 60 days. I just broke the booze-less streak on Sunday, April 10 to celebrate half marathon #4.

Hubby thinks I drink too much. He could be right, but then he doesn't drink.

Without any occasion, I can chug a 750ml bottle of wine or six 12-oz cans of beer in 1 meal. Winter makes me booze more, but running keeps me off it (mostly). I'm not an alcoholic. I just enjoy drinking.

Buck Ridge Burn 1/2, the trail challenge that chose me

Furnace found at the start/finish area.

Race flyer

On my way to my car after finishing a 10-mile race on April 2, I quickly glanced over a table filled with race brochures. In less than 30 seconds, the flyer for this race jumped out. Race date agreed with my calendar and I thought "hmmm, this could be a good practice race for my April 16 half, and 25K trail in May."