Friday Five: My 5 Favorite runDisney Medals

I'm departing for one week from my usual link-up (but you should all still check out the DC gals and their Friday Five--they are talking Halloween).  This week, I was inspired by a recent podcast episode from my favorite podcast: Mickey Miles!  Seriously, if you haven't listened and you love runDisney, you are missing out (you can find it on i-Tunes)!  Mike & Michelle have spent many hours with me on many long runs!!!!  A few weeks ago, a listener question arose: "What are you top-5 runDisney medals?"  GOOD QUESTION!!!!  So I got to making my mental list during my run, and here's the official one:

5.  My very first runDisney medal: the 2010 Disneyland Half Marathon (which was also the 5th anniversary of the race).  It was the beginning of this addiction.  My hubby and I have run that race every year since :)

4.  The Dumbo Double Dare medal.  This is/will be my first Legacy race.  For those of you who aren't familiar with legacy runners, these are people who have done every year of the race, and runDisney recognizes them at 5 years.  I can't wait for 2017!

3.  All of the Coast to Coast medals--I've accumulated 3 so far, and next year I'm already registered for the races to get the pink one.  I love the classic Partners statue and the consistency.  I don't think I could ever have too many of these!

2.  The 20th anniversary Marathon medal--this one is pure prettiness.  It spins, has classic Mickey & current Mickey, and has two of my favorite Disney quotes: "I hope we never lose sight of one thing: that it was all started by a mouse" & "All of our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them"

1.  My Dopey Challenge medal.  I'm not sure if I'll ever run another challenge this huge, but I'm sure glad I did it once!  It was seriously such a huge personal accomplishment, and SERIOUS FUN!

What are your favorites?  Which medal are you earning next?  (Btw, mine is the Wine & Dine Half, in case you were wondering!)

Throwback Thursday: 2013 Wine & Dine Half Race Report, Jingle Jungle 5k

Happy Throwback Thursday!  Last year, I convinced my mom to join me for the Jingle Jungle 5k the morning of the Wine & Dine Half.  Enjoy the race report!

Original Post: December 3, 2013

Race Report: Wine & Dine Half Marathon 2013 Part 2--Jingle Jungle 5k

A blurry Mickey & Minnie at the start

My hubby had to work on Friday, so I conned my mom to run another 5k in Disney with me (well, let's be honest, when Disney is involved, it's not too difficult).  We had indulged at the Food & Wine Festival and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party the day before, so that early morning wake-up call was a little rough.  Add to it the fact that I was using my new phone and didn't set my alarm correctly.  The morning was a little rushed, but we ended up at the start line with plenty of time to spare.

The new magic bands allowed us to not  have to check a bag, so we walked straight into our corral and I quickly sat on the ground to try and save my legs for the half marathon.  It was "snowing" and I loved people watching.  There were some really great fun and festive costumes. I'll admit it; I've kind of been anti-Disney-5k because of the price and the whole "fun run" thing.  This being my second 5k, I will concede and admit it was pretty fun!  I hope runDisney doesn't keep the prices soaring, as they are really pricey.  I'm actually loving adding these into my race weekends.

Overall the race was fun; pretty much mile 2 was in the Animal Kingdom and the rest was outside.  It was nice to run through this park since it's missed in all but the marathon in January.  The characters were very "Animal Kindom-ish".  My mom didn't want to stop for pictures; somehow she was still worried about finishing (she did so much better this time; I wish she would have taken more pictures, but I let her 'run' the show). 

We finished right around 45 minutes.  Believe it or not, in "fun run" spirit, I left my Garmin in the room and didn't worry about pace.  The ending felt a little more "parking lot-ish" than some other races, so after a quick picture, we were on our way back to the hotel to shower and get ready for the parks.  We spent the day at Hollywood Studios and my hubby and I had to gear up for our first night race: The 2013 Wine & Dine Half Marathon. 

That's all!  5k done, now onto the real reason we came :)

My Top Tips for Goofy & Dopey

I love seeing so many of my runDisney friends getting ready for the 2015 WDW Marathon Weekend.  Being a "kind of" veteran of these races--doing Goofy in 2013 & Dopey in 2014--I thought I might share just a little of what I've learned to help you get through the last few weeks of training.

Run all the races!

First, talking training, my #1 tip is to train EXACTLY how you plan to run the race.  I know there are some plans out there that say differently, but my experience is that if you plan to run, run in training.  If you plan to do intervals, do those exact intervals in training.  For the record, I ran some part of all the races.

Next, start to plan your goal pace.  This should always include scaling back on earlier races, especially for Dopey.  Just for reference, this past Dopey, I ran the 5k, ran for 1/2 miles with walk breaks for the 10k, did a 2/1 run/walk for the half, and did a 3/1 run walk for the full.  I saved it all for the full, and ended up with a huge PR.  You can do it!!!!!

One of the most important things for training for the Goofy and Dopey is to train for recovery too!  Do ice baths help?  What about specific recovery food?  Clothing, like compression items?  I did it all and experimented with so much.  I even slept in compression pants.  Also, I highly recommend not spending the day on the couch after a long run when you are training.  Go shopping.  Get up and move around.  This is so important especially if you plan to enjoy the parks. 

I love a good ice bath!

 Like any other race prep, you will want to try everything out before race day.  That includes fuel, costumes, shoes, etc.  With multi-day races, I always bring two pairs of running shoes just for running, and another style (or two) for walking around the parks. 

Compression, new kicks, & a killer look!

My biggest tip is to remember to have FUN!  These races are the perfect storm for slow times, so why not enjoy the course?  Take pictures, meet new friends, and most importantly, finish strong so you can enjoy celebrating your accomplishment!  Good luck runners!  Anyone have any questions?  I'd love to answer :).

My Newest Workout Obsession--PiYo

I realized I'm a little late to the party, and there are many people that have been doing PiYo for years, but hey, better late than never, right?  This is seriously my newest obsession.  Don't worry, I'm still massively obsessed with running and Be Bad Hip Hop and Zumba and BodyPump.  This is just an addition :)

About a month ago, I decided to expand my fitness business to include Beachbody Coaching.  Of course, to be a good coach, you need to know what tools you are using to help people.  I knew I needed to continue to get myself healthy after surgery, so PiYo made sense for me.  Low impact, yet challenging.  Inspired by Yoga and Pilates.  Flexibility and strength training.  Yep, sign me up!  It was all stuff I needed to balance my cardio-heavy life.  I was excited when I got the DVDs and really enjoyed the workouts.  I even sweat--which I didn't expect.  It was way more challenging than I thought.  I was hooked (and getting great results).

No sooner than I was raving about the home workouts did the opportunity to get trained in PiYo Live come right to my doorstep!  Of course, I jumped!  I could better help people doing the workouts at home, AND I could also bring this awesome workout to my clients at the gym.  Yep, sign me up again! 

Yesterday was the training.  Today, I am so sore!!!!  PiYo is no joke!!!!  I absolutely loved it live, too (not that I had any doubts).  I'm not a Yogi...not even close, so I was thrilled when, during introductions, our master trainer said to me "You are exactly who PiYo is geared toward!"  I guess that was something I missed along the way (this program has been around for about 7 years, I was just never interested).  This is a fast-paced workout that focuses on total body strength and flexibility.  I was literally dripping all over my mat! 

So now, I come to you, as one of the newest converts--and a certified PiYo Live instructor!  :)  I seriously can't wait to get my own class and spread the love.  Just like I tweeted yesterday: EVERY runner should be doing this workout! 

Just finished #PiYoLive training. LOVE this format! Every runner should be doing this workout! #runner #BeachbodyCoach #PiYoRebellion
— Disney Runs Family (@DisneyRunFamily) October 27, 2014

Vegas peeps--stay tuned!  I'm planning some fun preview workouts and hope to get a live class soon.  If you're not in Vegas and want to try PiYo, I'd love to help you get started and coach you through the program.  You can contact me here or find me on Facebook (Alyson Stater).  Do you already PiYo?  I'd love to hear your thoughts on this program!

Throwback Thursday: 2013 Wine & Dine Half Race Report, Part 1

It's getting close--the 2014 Wine & Dine Half Marathon!!!!  My hubby and I are heading down to the World again to participate for the second time.  We just couldn't resist the anniversary medal!  Since this blog didn't exist last year, I borrowed from myself & my old blog to bring you 3 race reports for the next 3 weeks of Throwback Thursdays!  Enjoy!

Original Post: November 27, 2013

Race Report: Wine & Dine Half Marathon 2013--Part 1: The Expo

 I guess "better late than never"--confession: I actually wrote this on the plane, but never finished the post!

Tired doesn't even begin to describe how I feel.  This was truly an exhausting weekend, but lots of fun!  The race didn't quite go as planned, but more on that later.  Let's start at the beginning: the expo!

I have to admit, I was a bit nervous going into the expo.  After the disaster that was the Disneyland Half Marathon Expo, I just didn't have it in me to fight crowds and be frustrated.  My mom and I lined up early for the bus from Riverside, not really rushing to get on the first bus.  Our bus arrived a little after 10, and I was hoping we missed the initial rush.  I dutifully checked Twitter and Facebook to see if there were any social media warnings about the expo, and I didn't see much.  Phew!  We arrived at the expo somewhere around 10:30, and quickly made our way up to snap a few pictures and pick up packets.

The panic set in just a little and I headed straight for the runDisney official merchandise booth.  I already had my plan: one wine glass and one Sweaty Band.  There was a nice pull-over jacket, but they were already out of my size.  I think it was the runDisney Gods sending me a message: "Save your money for Dopey.  You're going to want everything at that race!"  The line moved quickly and my mom and I were on our way to pick up packets.

Packet Pickup

We split up (she picked up her 5k bib, I headed to half marathon land).  My line went fast; got my bib, runner packet, pin, and I was off...off to wait in line to pick up my husband's stuff.  That line was way longer, but they stationed staff within the line to check your ID before you got to the front.  I'm sure it helped a little, but more-so, I appreciated the attempt to find any little ways to expedite the process.  With two packets in hand, I headed out to pick up my 5k bib & pin.  Yes, my hand were full and I was having trouble juggling everything!

We then quickly made our way over to the expo.  I had a long list of things I wanted to check out, and happily, the crowds weren't too large and I was able to purchase everything I wanted.  We picked up our race shirts as well, then headed to the buses to Epcot for some yummy food.

Overall, this was another successful expo!   I was happy that runDisney had planned this to better accommodate the runners.  I'm looking forward to another smooth expo in January!

I'm Free! I'm Free!

That was me last night on my long run.  I knew I had to get in a few long runs at night to prepare for Wine & Dine and the Vegas RnR Half.  That left plenty of time to come up with a million excuses of why NOT to run.  I was cleaning, had work to do, was blogging, was... well, anything but run.  I finally got my shoes on and hit the road.  After all, there will be a pretty sweet finish line party at BOTH races that I need to be in shape for. 

I knew I had to switch it up, so for one night, I RAN FREE!  I unplugged from all the gadgets and gizmos that I usually have.  No Garmin.  No apps.  No tracking.  I just went outside and ran.  It was exactly what I needed.  I finished 10 miles, in the dark, in a few hours.  And it's okay that I don't know each and every split.  I honestly had no idea what mile was where, and that was okay too.

Running is my happy place.  It's where I think and where I decompress.  It's where I reset and get ready for the week ahead.  Lately, because I've been recovering from injury and really starting from the ground up, I've been a little hyper-focused on miles and times and paces.  Last night, though, I just ran. 

I highly encourage you to do it!  Run free!  Then come home, plug in your Garmin, and gear up for the next perfectly planned tempo workout :).

Six Simple Snacks

Since surgery, I've really had to clean up my diet.  I was working out less and due to a bunch of reasons (depression, emotional eating, lack of exercise, just general not caring) I managed to gain 20 pounds since May.  I'm back on the wagon now, and really trying to over-haul my diet and exercise program! 

 

I'm a big believer in 5-6 small meals a day, which means I am pretty much always eating!  Hey, nothing wrong with that as long as you do it right!  I'm also a super busy chick!  I hold down a pretty demanding full-time job along with a second part-time gig at the gym.  Oh yeah...and trying to build a fitness business too, but I digress.  Sooooo...for me, simple, easy snacks are a must.  And let's be honest...I'm in no way a talented cook.  I thought I'd share some of my easy, go-to snacks for when you find yourself planning for a busy week.

I try to be sure these snack require little prep and can be easily carried around in a cooler.  I often find myself on the run when it's snack time so cooking or even heating is many times impossible.  Remember--these are fast and simple.  Please make educated decisions on what your specific nutrition needs are.

Snack 1:  Veggies & Hummus
Snack 2:  Cottage Cheese (fat free) & frozen mixed berries
Snack 3:  Oscar Mayer Protein Pack & fruit
Snack 4:  Greek Yogurt
Snack 5:  4 Egg Whites (from hard-boiled eggs) & fruit
Snack 6:  Meal replacement bar (be careful and look at ingredients to limit the artificial stuff!)

Yep, it's that simple!  What are you favorite "go-to" busy-gal snacks? 

Race Report: 2014 National Nurse's Half Marathon

This past Saturday, I participated in my very first small, local race: The National Nurse's Half Marathon (btw, no, it's not just for nurses and no, I'm not a nurse).  This race is a point to point road race along the rolling hills of the Red Rock canyon area in Las Vegas.

I attended the expo Friday night.  Some of my Zumba instructor friends were exhibitors, so it was nice to see familiar faces.  Also, I finally got to get some Shoe Frosting!  If you ever see these girls at an expo, go say hello!  They are super sweet and so much fun :)  I think I showed a ton of restraint by only buying 6 "frostings"!  The expo was really small, but efficient and well-organized.  They had amazing speakers--I wish I wasn't at work all day so I could have listened to more.

I was pretty nervous for this race--I would be going alone, driving myself to the start, and running on my still healing knee (12 weeks post-surgery and counting!).  I already had the Disneyland Half under my belt, but the 3 hour finish was far from what I wanted to run today.  My goal was to shave off 15 minutes and come in around 2:45.

The Very Small Start Line

They arranged for buses from the finish line to take you to the start, so I boarded the bus around 6:00 (start was 7:00).  Our bus got lost, but eventually found the little town of Blue Diamond.  I used the bus bathroom (super smart move--there weren't many bathrooms available and everyone was needing to go 'one last time').  Then, we all gathered around in the park.  There was no "marked" start line; we were instructed to follow the lead cars.  Very different from Disney, but well-organized in it's own way.  Local musicians sent us off with the national anthem.  It was pretty funny how many other runners ran Disney.  Everyone I talked to was talking about a Disney race (yes, I was wearing a runDisney Sweaty Band which started the conversation).  I should have told more people about the blog!!!  I always forget that part :)

We were off pretty much on time.  A quick stroll through Blue Diamond and we were well on our way on the streets in the canyon.  It was so nice to be on an open course where you didn't have to weave around tons of people.  I was able to set my own pace, stop when I wanted, and really "run my race".

The first 4 miles were hilly for me.  My legs (especially my right leg) were cramping early and feeling unprepared.  Also, without the typical huge start and long walk to corrals, I didn't do a good job of warming up.  I was texting my hubby at mile 4 to bring ibuprofen!  The up-hill/down-hill is really hard on my knee.  I also made the mistake of not taking enough walk breaks early.  I was so in the zone and felt so good I didn't want to stop running!!!  It was one of those mornings where I really need to talk myself off a ledge--I'm running injured--I just can't do what I used to do!

Once we were past mile 4, the course got much flatter and easier.  My knee quickly recovered and my legs started feeling better.  At mile 6, I smartened up and went to my intervals: 1:30 run/1:00 walk.  This is how I've been training, so it just made sense.  As soon as I switched to these intervals, my run speed increased and I was hitting a comfortable stride.

My hubby ended up meeting me around mile 10 and again at the finish.  It was a great boost to see a familiar face.  I also knew I had tons of cheery Zumba friends at the finish--what a great support!  Turn right, turn left, FINISH.  My official time was 2:31!!!!!  I had shaved off close to 30 minutes from the Disneyland Half!  That was so awesome!  I exceeded all of my own expectations.  Just another confirmation that I am on the mend!  The finish line was great, then I was off to teach a few Zumba routines at the finish line too--it sounded like a great idea at the time.  I struggled a little, though, because I was really tightening up after pushing so hard during the race.  Gotta admit, though, it was kind of my perfect world--half marathon + Zumba = happy Aly :)

Before we close out, I have to tell you about the course--it was seriously B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L!!!!!  It is not what you think of when you hear Vegas for sure!  The mountains, rocks, scenery--just amazing!  This stretch of road is full of runners, bikers, and other athletes on any given weekend morning, so I plan to add this "course" to my regular running schedule.

I would highly recommend this race to anyone in the area or traveling to Vegas.  It was affordable, very well-run, had a great course and pretty awesome bling!  Check out the website for next year's race!  I'm sure it'll be even better!   http://www.nationalnurseshalfmarathon.com/

One more half in the books!

Tower of Terror 10-Miler Blog Hop

Even though the Tower of Terror 10-Miler is off the 2015 runDisney calendar, it doesn't mean we can't look back at this year's race and wish we were there!  Since we weren't, I spent some time contacting some other great bloggers to collect their posts sharing this awesome runDisney race.

First up: V's Fuzzy Running (lol...fuzzy Disney math...Love That!).  She's run this race 3 times and offers a great perspective.  To boot, she also stayed at Hilton Bonnet Creek, which is where we are planning on staying for Princess.
http://seevrun.blogspot.com/2014/10/2014-twilight-zone-tower-of-terror-10.html

Next, Running Happily Ever After offers some great dos and don'ts along with the recap.  It's also great advice for anyone taking on Wine & Dine in a few weeks.
http://www.runninghappilyeverafter.com/2014/10/recap-2014-rundisney-tower-of-terror-10.html

The next blog is the perspective of someone doing this race as their longest distance to date.  Montana from Pretty Lil Mudder is no newbie to a challenge, though.  She loves all those muddy runs (that I've never done...someday I'm sure that will make the list) and is pretty darn tough!  Check it out:
http://www.prettylilmudder.com/2014/10/race-recap-tower-terror-10-miler/

Finally, Karen at Run, Knit, Travel did BOTH events during the ToT weekend.  You can check them both out to make you feel even more jealous of those who got to participate!
5k: http://runknittravel.com/2014/10/07/race-recap-2014-wdw-happy-haunted-5k/
10-Miler: http://runknittravel.com/2014/10/10/race-recap-2014-tower-of-terror/

Thanks to ALL of these bloggers for great recaps & for letting me spread the runDisney love!  Yep, I'm even more jealous now!  My fingers are still crossed for 2016--who's with me?!?!?!?

runDisney Week in Review

Wow!  Someone was working overtime this week at runDisney!  There is a ton of news and announcements, so here's the whole week in a nutshell:

We all jumped on a tweet of the 2015/2016 runDisney calendar that quickly got removed:

 Just one day later, it was made "official" by runDisney posts on all social media.  Immediately everyone was in an uproar over the confirmation that Expedition Everest would be back (despite much speculation that it was going away) and the omission of the popular Tower of Terror 10-Miler.  Yes, we were super disappointed too, because we were definitely planning on doing that race in the future!  Of course, everyone was looking for the big "P"---PARIS---and it was no where to be seen :(

Graphics started appearing for individual race dates, including the date the race would go on sale.  Who else needs to buy a new planner?

But that wasn't the end of it!  This week also gave all of us runners who are headed to WDW next month our waivers and corral placement.  You can print your waiver here:
http://trackshack.com/disneysports/waivwd14/verify.php
Then look up your bib number for corral placement here:  http://trackshack.com/disneysports/waivwd14/verify.php

 

Don't forget to also check out the event guide here: http://as1.wdpromedia.com/media/rundisney/pdf/wine-dine/2014/W&D14_Program_Online.pdf

Most notably, though, is the policy change for Coast to Coast.  At the expo, if you will be recieving your C2C medal at the finish, you need to have your photo taken.  They will then use photo recognition at the finish line to award you that medal.  It seems a little odd and unnecessarily techy, but I'm sure they have their reasons.  I already have mine, but my hubby will be sure to let everyone know how it goes when he gets his medal in November.

This week was also filled with "last chances" to update proofs of time, as well as register for the Marathon Weekend events.  Seriously...would someone PLEASE fill up that last 2% of Goofy registrations!!!  I'm finding it harder and harder to resist!!!!  In case you are still looking to run, Goofy, the Marathon, & the Kids Races still have availability. 

Phew!  That's a whole lotta info!!!!  Now that it's officially announce, what races are in your future?  Who are we going to see at Wine & Dine? 

'Twas the Night Before a Half Marathon

I'm not a newbie to half marathons, but tomorrow's race is very different from any race I've done before.  It's a small, local event.  I'm driving myself to the start line, which is only about 15 minutes from my house.  I love "run-cations" so this is rare!  Last night, as I loaded up on carbs, I felt a strange sense of nervousness.  I'm not quite sure what to do the night before a local race--or what to do at a local race!  So, here I am, the night before my first small, local half marathon, and I'm trying to translate my experience into my home.  Here's the plan:

1.  Food--I ate my last large meal (pasta w/turkey meatballs) for lunch.  The rest of the night is just snacking and hydrating with water & just a touch of PowerAde.

2.  Stretching--I've been working out hard all week, so even though my last run was Sunday, I'm actually a little sore.  I'm going to spend some time rolling my feet and legs, plus adding in some extra stretching.

3.  Fuel Prep--I'm so used to large races where I never have to worry about fuel.  This, though, being a small race, might not have the same supply (especially since I'll be at the back of the pack, still due to injury).  I'm planning on bringing my large fuel belt, so tonight I'm going to stock it full so I don't forget anything.

4.  Clothing Prep--This girl, who usually has costumes ready months in advance, has NO IDEA what to wear tomorrow!  Gotta figure that out ASAP!  I wonder how many strange looks I'd get in a sparkle skirt???

5.  REST--A night full of reality TV on my couch.  It'll be the most rest I've ever gotten before a race! 

What are you running this weekend?  Do you have pre-race rituals?

2014 Nurse's Half Marathon Preview

In a few days, I'll be toeing the line for the Nurse's Half Marathon in Las Vegas, NV.  Yep, this is my first small, local race. I'm excited for many reasons.  First, I'm hoping to run a bit faster than my last race.  I'm not up to the point where I can "race" but my speed is starting to pick up again.  Second, not only am I running, but I'm also going to be teaching a few songs at a Zumba Party at the finish line (yes, I realize that's a little crazy, but... that's just me!).  Third, the course is just beautiful!!!  It's nothing like the Vegas you're thinking--it's 13.1 miles with the most beautiful mountains surrounding you.  ?

The Expo is being held Friday from 1-9, and includes a few exhibitors and a full speaker series.  It is open to the public and free.  I'll be heading there after work, but hope to be able to hear from a few of the speakers. 

The race is a point to point race, so runners need to either take a bus from the finish line at 6:15 or from the hotel at 5:30.  The race starts at 7:00.  The Zumba Party that follows is from 10-12.  It is sure to be a fun, but exhausting morning!  I'm going to have to start planning a big lunch! 

Run... Then ZUMBA!

Since this is a small race, I'm planning on treating it as a training run.  I'm going to run with my own fuel and with all my gadgets.  Expect lots of pictures and tweets that morning! 

What are the differences between a runDisney event and a small local race?  Anything I need to be prepped for?

Road ID App Review

So, in case you haven't heard, I fell a few months ago and it rocked my world.  Are you all tired of hearing about it, or what!?!?!?!  Yes, I'm now on the mend, and thankfully I'm back running.  There have been many lessons learned along the way, and safety was definitely one of them!  Short recap: I had NOTHING on me when I fell!  No cell phone.  No ID.  No nothing!  My hubby didn't expect me home for at least another hour.  I was so fortunate that it wasn't serious and I was able to make it home.  Now, though, I'm smarter about safety, and I want you to be too!

First, I'm carrying my cell phone now.  This allows me to use the FREE Road ID app!!!  Yes, this company is putting this out there for everyone to use for free to help us all be safe.  I wanted to give you all a quick preview so you can start using it TODAY!

I downloaded it from the play store, and needed no instructions to use it.  Super simple!  The initial setup took less than 10 minutes.  I needed to register the app with my email (and they sent me a coupon for my Road ID bracelet that I was going to buy anyway).  I also needed to add up to 5 contacts that would be informed of my runs.  I chose both my mom and hubby.  I may add a co-worker too, since my hubby travels so much for work.



Setup Page

You set up your run on your phone--estimate how long it will take you, and add contacts straight from your address book (love this feature--I mean, who really knows phone numbers anymore?). You choose your message; mine was "Going for a run".  You also have the option to turn on or off the tracking and stationary alerts.  From there, it's pretty much done. 


Start Screen

One swipe and your contacts are sent a text that you are out for a run.  They can check in on you as go with a link. If you are stationary for more than 2 minutes, a loud, obnoxious sound comes from the phone and people are sent an alert.  One swipe when you're done and that's it!  Instant, free safety!

Done!

Not sure why you haven't closed this blog and downloaded this app yet?  What are you waiting for?  Seriously, we need to all be safe out there.  You hear horror stories all the time, and we all need to be smart about our safety.  One last note: I am still getting a Road ID bracelet.  Both paired together are a perfect combo.  Any one else out there use the app? 



Pumpkin Spice Shake

It's fall.  Even here in Vegas the weather is finally starting to cool down, and that only means one thing: It's PUMPKIN season!  I've been working really hard on improving my fitness and nutrition, and I didn't want to derail my progress with too many treats.  I'm a nut for pumpkin, though, and I was thrilled when I found this recipe for a pumpkin shake.  Here it is:

One scoop chocolate Shakeology

1/2 c. pumpkin (be sure it's not pumpkin pie filling, but real pumpkin)

1/2 tsp. Cinnamon
1/2 tsp. Nutmeg

1 c. skim milk or almond milk

It was a pretty thick drink, and the pumpkin taste wasn't overwhelming--might not be enough pumpkin for some, but it was still really good.  As good as a full-throttle pumpkin spice latte, well, not really, but it was a great treat and kept me on track. 

Do you live for pumpkin season?  What's your favorite pumpkin treat?  Any great recipes to try?

Don't Forget to Diet Bet!

We'd love to have you join us on our next Diet Bet!  Don't be scared of the scale this Halloween! 

 

$25 buy in, 4 weeks, lose 4 % of your weight, you win $$$.  Follow the link: 

 

https://www.dietbetter.com/games/50550