Earthquakes and Stampedes

Good Morning, Readers!

EARTHQUAKE

Last week was an exciting one, as far as weeks go. Certainly the talk around West Michigan has been the 4.0 earthquake centered several miles south of Galesburg.

It just so happens that we were camping at Fort Custer State Park in Galesburg when the earthquake quaked(?). And let me tell you, it was noticeable. We were surrounded by RV's that are not all that stable, so when the earth shook, they were rocking and rolling. Mostly rocking. All of them rocking and none of them literally rolling.

Sage, who was inside the camper at the time, was knocked to the ground thinking the RV was collapsing. She ran outside and asked Chad if we had an earthquake, at which point he replied "no, we don't have earthquakes in Michigan." Children, let this be a lesson that parents are not always right.

Shortly thereafter emergency sirens sounded and military helicopters were flew overhead. It was disconcerting but, thankfully, turned out to be no more than an interesting story to share.

For geeky information on the earthquake, check out WZZM's Bills Blog.

STAMPEDE

The annual Fort Custer Stampede mountain bike race was held on Sunday. Sage raced Beginner 10 and Under, Bear competed in the children's race, and Chad made a return to Sport.

Sage and Chili Dog at the Beginner 10 and Under Start. Look at all the awesome kids!

This was the first race of the season for the family and I'm happy to report that everyone had a blast. Sage was excited for the race swag. But as a parent, the best part is seeing the perma-smile when she crosses the finish line.

Bear was all business at the Kid's Race

While Sage was set on racing all weekend, Bear, on the other hand, insisted he wasn't going to. Bear and I planned to hang out at the campground. That changed 30 minutes before the start of the kids race. Bear and I were sitting around the campfire when he suddenly jumped up and started bouncing excitedly. He was struck with the urge to race.

We rode our bikes as fast as we could from the campground to the race venue (2-3 miles) and arrived just in time. I rarely see such a look of determination etched on his face. When they said "go," he stood and hammered for the entire two laps.

Both kids are looking forward to the next race and can't wait for Dirt Dawgs to start. The Brewer Family's next stop will be the Hanson Hills Challenge in Grayling. Look for us in the large Jayco. And it appears that I will be making a return to racing. I can't wait.

A few more photos from the weekend:

Sage is working on mastering the log pile.

No pollution. No signs. Just the trail and nothing to be bothering me. --Bear

Thanks for stopping by and I hope to see you on the trails,
Heather

Dirt Dawgs

Earlier this week was the first parent meeting for the GRBC Dirt Dawgs, West Michigan's first youth development mountain bike team, headed by Danielle Musto and friends.

There has been serious anticipation for this team in the Brewer household. Sage considers Danielle her BFF and can't wait to hang out again. Meanwhile, I'm excited that we'll be able to participate in the sport together as a family.

The Dirt Dawgs will focus on developing a healthy lifestyle and natural resource stewardship alongside learning to mountain bike and growing friendships. There are races on the schedule for the kids that are interested in competition.

It sounds like an exciting program and Danielle's enthusiasm is contagious. No doubt the kids are all going to have a blast this summer. The team is capped at 50 kids, which I believe has already been met. It's exciting to see how many kids are already interested in this new program. And it will be fun to watch Danielle try and organize that many children at once (kidding, she'll do awesome).

In other news, after a few months hiatus, I'm back at making homemade Sugar/Gluten/Dairy-Free ice cream for the kids. We love this stuff. It's so creamy and delicious. Sage had an ice-cream party at school last week and she actually requested my ice cream over store-bought.

I base my recipe off of one from the Spunky Coconut. She is a genius when it comes to allergen-free baking. I can't tell you how many times I've found myself holding her Paleo Chocolate Lover's Cookbook to my bosom--she's that good.

That's it for this week. Hoping to ride more single-track this weekend--if it would just stop snowing.

HB

Stepping Stones

This is a repost. I came across this little gem cleaning up the archives—a reminder of something I needed to hear today. Read and be encouraged my friends.

While taking a walk along the beach, recovering from having finished the LJ100 just days before, I found something buried in the sand. I thought it might be a fossil as the rock, which was gradually being uncovered by the lapping waves, appeared to have markings on it. The kids would love to add a fossil to their growing 'beach treasures' collection and so I kicked it out of the sand with my feet, then washed it in the lake water.

When I turned it over I discovered that what I thought was the fossil imprint was actually hand writing. Someone had written the message "ENDURE."

A fitting treasure for the summation of a journey that was my Lumberjack 100 experience. I keep the rock in my living room, an immutable testament to an accomplishment I once thought never possible.

Today I went for a 5k run around our neighborhood. The pavement was still wet from yesterdays thaw and yet the wind was biting with snow flurries. Running in March. In Michigan.

I couldn't help but think about the last time I trained for the River Bank Run 25k—running the same 5k route on the same March day some years ago. I set a lofty goal for myself that year: to finish in under 2:21:00. The previous year I had a finished at 2:31:06. Expecting to shave my time by 10 minutes was setting the bar high. In fact, anyone I mentioned this goal to strongly urged me to lower my expectations. I was glad I never revealed my true goal of seeing a 2:15 on the clock. A time that would require a pace faster than I had ever recorded over any distance, including a measly *3-mile 5k race.

I ended up running a 2:13:03.

The roads and paths of my neighborhood are much like that rock—a physical, tangible reminder of a dream made real. A testament of hard work, perseverance, and commitment.

What is my purpose in sharing this? I believe its important to mark our accomplishments so that on a day like today—a day where running feels as foreign as visiting Mars, where my schedule is in a vice, my body tired and sore, and the landscape between myself and my 'goal' has collapsed in an expanse equivocal to the Grand Canyon—I can recall having been there before. And, that eventually, there will be a light at the end of the tunnel.

Days like today, even seasons filled with weeks of days like today, are a necessary part of the journey. Big Dreams aren't achieved without the grueling, relentless, suffering work.

And each dream accomplished is not merely 'something we once did' but rather the rocks that build the foundation of our lives. I know that's a deep thought. But its true. The characteristics we gain from sport: commitment, dedication, goal-setting, hard work, perseverance, endurance—everything we do in our athletic lives (be it running or mountain biking or swimming . . . ) translates into every other aspect of our lives. How we conduct ourselves in our careers, how we parent, how we relate in our marriages.

Take some time today, remember your accomplishments and all the things you thought weren't possible, maybe it was running that first mile or going on your first mountain bike ride. Be encouraged and motivated by that experience and use it as a stepping stone to the next big thing in your life.

*I know I am being redundant, but some people are unaware that a "5k race" is not a type of race but rather represents the distance, which is 3.1 miles.

Spring is Springing

It was almost 60 degrees in Muskegon today. There's still a few snow piles but the sunshine and warmer temps means that its time for this fair weather cyclist to dust off the fleet and put on the spandex.

This year is going to be a good one with the inaugural season of GRBC's first youth cycling team and Sage and I snagged two of the lasts spots for the Midwest Women's Mountain Bike Clinic. I've wanted to attend this clinic for years. It has a great reputation and looks like a blast. Check out the video below:



 
Midwest Women's Mountain Bike Clinic (Filmed with Movi) from Stephen McGee Films on Vimeo.

Happy New Yurts!

The Yurt. It is handicap accessible.

I've had many people ask about our experience camping in the Yurt at Muskegon State Park. We had a wonderful time and definitely recommend it. Below is some information on our stay and some things to consider if you are planning to visit the Yurt.

What I liked:

1. It's nestled amongst the trails and trees of one of my favorite places, Muskegon State Park/Muskegon Luge and Sports Complex!
2. There are miles of trail outside the door and Lake Michigan is, hmmmm, maybe 1/4 to 1/2 mile walk away. 
3. It's simple. No electricity, no water, no bathroom, no kitchen. It's a glorified tent with bunk beds, a wood burning stove and a board game. 

Things to know if you go:

1. Bring a lantern and flashlight or headlamps. While the woods were illuminated by the snowfall and light of the moon, it was dark inside the yurt. 
2. Pack water, food, plates and utensils. There are two small burners atop the wood burning stove for a small frying pan or tea kettle. We kept things simple by bringing granola bars and bananas. We ordered Hobo's Pizza for dinner and went out for breakfast. The closest restaurant is 5 miles away, so if you plan to eat out, know you are in for a bit of a drive. 
3. There are two sets of bunk beds. One bunk has a queen size base. There are several cots available for use as well. Bring sleeping bags and pillows.
4. It takes awhile to get the wood stove cranking enough to heat up the yurt, but once you do it is a toasty retreat from the winter cold.
5. While there isn't a bathroom, an outhouse is located 30 yards away. Or use a tree. 
6. My son relieved himself on the picnic table at 2:30 AM so . . . bring a table cloth.
7. You will not have a cell phone signal while in the park.
8. You can reserve the Yurt a year in advance. It does fill up on weekends. If you think you want to go in 2015, make your reservations now. 

Our Yurtcation

Saturday 

2 PM  

The kids and I arrive at the Yurt with bedding and snacks. We are able to carry all of our supplies in one trip, trekking the 30 yards from car to Yurt. While the kids made the beds, I began building a fire in the wood stove. It didn't take long to get it going--as my son Bear said proudly, Mom! You sure can build a fire, for a girl! Proud and offended at his exclamation, I struggled with what to say to guide his forming views of gender roles but ultimately decided to let my actions do the talking.
The campground provides wood, tinder and a lighter. 

2:30 PM 

We depart to run some errands and attend Sage's indoor soccer game.

6:30 PM

Sage and I finally make it back to the Yurt. The fire is out but there are hot coals. It's dark and all I have is a light that I pulled off my bike. I'm not sure how how much battery life is left, but I set it up in the middle of the yurt and go to work rebuilding the fire.
Sage settles in her top bunk with a flashlight and book.

7:00 PM

The men arrive with Hobo's pizza and friends join us after their winter night hike. We find folding chairs stacked inside a little table. There's plenty of room for everyone. I put water on the stove for hot cocoa. The children take off for the sledding hill.

It is snowing but inside the yurt it sounds like it is raining.  I put Jiffy-Pop on the stove and it doesn't pop so we leave it there, thinking the stove is not hot enough yet.

The kids are sledding, the adults hang out around the lantern. Log bunk bed with queen base is pictured.

8:30 PM
Our friends depart and we jammie-it-up* before settling down for a rousing game of "Camping Out," a Michigan State Parks Board Game, provided by the campground. Chad has brought a lantern and it is a stellar replacement for the bike light.

The yurt smells like burnt popcorn. Chad has an "aha" moment, we were supposed to remove the packaging before placing the Jiffy-Pop on the stove. Good thing we have more! Our second attempt at making popcorn goes without a hitch and we all enjoy a buttery treat.

Playing "Camping Out"

9:30 PM
Mom and dad are tired which, by default, means so are the children.

Everyone goes outside and grabs a fistful of snow. We let it melt in our palms before swishing it around in our mouth and chewing on fresh mint I found growing a few yards from the Yurt. Just kidding, we brushed our teeth with chemical-laden toothpaste. After that we wandered outside to our individual trees for one last bathroom break.

10:00 PM
It is a tradition in our family to tell stories and legends. The kids asked for me to tell them their favorite stories of Scout and Blacky**. These are completely of my own invention which works out well for me as I can change them anyway I want to and it will always be correct, unlike my failed attempts to retell traditional camp stories.

We do a "Waltons Family"*** good night before lights out.

Sunday
2:30 AM
A herd of elephants, otherwise known as my children, invade the Yurt. Everyone needs a drink of water. Bear, who has somehow lost his jammies and is completely naked, puts on his boots and stomps outside to relieve himself.

We put more wood in the stove. Our once sweltering abode is starting to get chilly.

4:30 AM
Two children need another cup of water and another bathroom break. It works out as it's time to feed the fire. I am surprised at how comfortable the kids are going outside to use the bathroom on their own.

8:00 AM
Everyone is up. There is almost 5" of fresh snow on the ground. We put on our snow gear and head outside for sledding. We hike the trails in search of exciting new sledding routes. The sun is rising over the sand dunes.

10:00 AM
I'm hungry and I didn't pack coffee. I tell everyone its time for breakfast. We see a Golden Eagle who is in the same frame of mind and is on the hunt for food.

We go to Mr. B's for pancakes and bottomless mugs of caffeine.

Noon
Back at the Yurt, the kids head out for more hiking and sledding while Chad and I clean up. Guests at the Yurt are asked to let the fire die down and sweep up. Everyone is sad to leave the Yurt but we are all happy and tired and thankful for our time together. We sign the Guest Log before locking the door behind us.

The End.

*The act of removing one's daytime clothing and replacing them with evening attire, otherwise known as pajamas.
**Scout is a boy of 6 or 7 years of age with no mom or dad. Blacky is his trusty dog, with a coat of fur darker than a moonless night and is as large as a bear. Scout rides on the back of Blacky just as a man rides a horse. Scout wears a cowhide hat, carries his prized red lasso across his chest and a knife in his back pocket. Scout and Blacky have many adventures that take place in the early 1800's on the prairie.
***Good night, John-Boy! Good night, Elizabeth. Good night, Mary Ellen. Good night, Jim Bob.

Hobo's Pizzeria and Mr. B's are Gluten Free friendly restaurants.

Iceman: Slushcup Edition 2014 Pt. 2

Read Part 1 here.

I remember how nervous I had been at my first Iceman at 30 years of age, I can't imagine what the anticipation would be for someone who still shows how old they are by holding up their fingers.

As I watched Wave 4 ride off into the woods and soon after, Sage and Gage, I couldn't help but feel what a privilege it was to be able to share in their adventure.

The Sluschup course is comprised of mostly two track trails which allow for plenty of room for new and young riders to race at their own comfort level, unlike the Iceman, which is dotted with technical and frustratingly crowded single track sections that can fumble-up the most experienced racers. S(G)age immediately found their stride and were able to catch their wave. They maneuvered up the first climb, ticking off riders at a steady, strong pace.

Sage, on her own

Chad and I have always encouraged Sage to ride her own race. I suppose it wasn't all that surprising when she immediately peeled off from our little group and rode herself out of sight. I sped up to check on her, she assured me she was fine to ride by herself. I wished her luck before turning back for Gage, my riding partner for the remainder of the race.

Unlike Sage, who can be very chatty on the trail, Gage was stoic and silent. He kept his head up and eyes forward, holding a steady pace. I simply followed along.

Just 1.5 miles in, we came around the corner to find Sage standing on the side of the trail. The momma-bear in me became immediately worried and protective. Did she have a flat tire? Did her chain break? Did she fall and hurt herself?!?!?!

I quickly rode up to her and began fussing, "Are you okay! What's wrong!"

"I'm getting a drink."

What? She stopped for a drink? A drink?!? Thereisnostoppingforadrinkinracing. She had a huge lead and we caught up to her because of a drink? "That's what your hydrapak is for--so you don't have to stop. Keep going you crazy kid!" I laughed. "You're doing great!"

"Okay, Mommy!" Sage smiled. I was so relieved that she wasn't hurt. Phew! Sage rode off and Gage and I continued our race together. In silence. And then the rain turned from "light" to "driving" and while we had been cold, it was suddenly bone-chilling.

I've heard a lot of veteran Icemen say this was the worst conditions they've experienced: the cold, the rain, the mud, the failing bikes, the hypothermia . . . The Slushcuppers raced in the same conditions. Yes, it was only 8 miles. But for an 8 or 9 year old--that distance is as equally challenging as the 30+ miles are for an experienced rider. Most Slusher's bikes aren't set up with X1. For many of the Slushers, their bikes weigh almost as much as they do. They don't have insulated booties--their riding in sneakers. If your $3k+ bike was having a difficult time in these conditions, well, you can imagine how a kids bike would fare.

Gage, Team Troll, at the start of the race

I was constantly checking in with Gage. Are you thirsty? Hungry?  He simply kept nodding that he was fine and rolled along. About 5 miles in I could tell he was starting to struggle. While he insisted he was okay, sometimes moms know better. I made him drink some water and eat apple squeezie--for those that don't know, apple squeezies are apple sauce in the form of a large gu packet. I took off my rain coat and put it on him--not sure how much good it was going to do as it was soaking wet, but Gage said it helped--the one handful of words he spoke the entire race. Then we soldiered on.

At 6.5 miles the Slushcup and Iceman course merge. Gage and I had been riding over an hour already with several miles to go. Gage was doing great, but I could tell he needed something to build his confidence, keep him going. Fortunately, it wasn't long after that we heard some bongo drums.

"We're almost there Gage--you've got this! Peddle to the beat!"

The bongo drummer gave us a heads-up that the Slushcup course was to the left. While the wide trail went up hill then turned for a steep downhill (the Iceman), the Slushcup course had a narrow single track section in the opposite direction that cut through the woods and spit you out at the finish.

Gage and I emerged from the woods and rode down the finishing shoot to the cheers and applaud that is The Iceman Experience.

Sage and Gage's family were at the finish line to meet us with hugs and cheers.

"Mom! You told me it was 8 miles but it was 11!" Sage guffawed.

Sage missed the turn-off where the Sluschup and Iceman separate. Even with the extra miles, added single track and steep climbs, Sage wore a huge smile the rest of the weekend.

I'm so proud of both Sage and Gage. It was their first Slushcup in very challenging circumstances. They both worked past their discomfort and endured to the finish. What they accomplished is a hearty deposit in building their confidence and character that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Sage 1:24:51
Gage 1:31:28
Heather 1:31:29

Sage at the finish--mud and smiles!

 

Iceman: Slushcup Edition 2014, PT 1

Icemans of Past 2010 and 2012) 

This was my first year attending Iceman as a Slushcupper. I was worried that once we arrived at the expo that I would have regrets about not signing up for the whole shebang. Let me tell you, that was not the case. It was AWESOME!

The dreaded weather report of 34 degrees, rain and wind (arguable the worst conditions for a mountain bike race ever) was a blip in my radar--after all, I was only going to be out there for an hour. One can endure just about any kind of conditions for that long. Sleep and nutrition--other aspects that generally heighten my nerves were of no concern. I wasn't racing! There was, for once, no pressure. I was looking forward to a day of riding with awesome, inspiring kids followed by indulging in the spoils of one of the biggest parties in Northern Michigan.

Sage, Gage, myself, and a photobomber sizing up her competition at the Slushcup start line

My riding buddies of the day were my daughter Sage and a friend of ours, Gage. Sage has gained some mountain bike racing experience this summer having competed at Big M, then doing her first solo races at Skirts in the Dirt, and Pando Fall Challenge. I had never ridden with Gage before and was uncertain what his experience was to that point, but I knew his family rolled with Team Troll. I could tell both Sage and Gage were very nervous.

We were assigned Wave 4 (the last wave in the Slush Cup). As each wave proceeded to be ticked off and the crowd amassed forward, both Sage and Gage were inclined to stay put. Eventually it seemed like there was a good 20 foot gap between us and the rest of Wave 4. I casually mentioned moving to the front but S(G)age implored me to stay right where I was. The crowd was clearly increasing their apprehension. I think if S(G)age had their way, they would have had a Wave 5 created just for them.

My competitive nature was twitching to shove both kids to the front of the line. But, this was their race and I was just along for the ride ;) If we never, ever passed one person (Sage has been known to start last, catch someone, stop, let them get ahead again before starting to ride) then that's what we were going to do!

Before we knew it the race had started! And S(G)age each had one foot on the peddle and the other on the ground, letting the chaos at the start line clear while they stood motionless for the moment.

. . . But then we were off!

The End of Part 1.
I'll finish the rest tomorrow! This mom only has so much time to write in one day . . .

Our home at Iceman / Timber Ridge

Skirts in the Dirt Mountain Bike Race

Hello Friends,

It has been quite a long time since I've posted here. It seems like life switched into high-gear about this time last year and I haven't been able to keep up. While I haven't been mountain bike racing I have still managed to keep a bit of dirt on the wheels with some family and leisurely single track rides here and there.

But, in a little over a month I plan on breaking out some racing legs for West Michigan's first Women Only Mountain Bike Race, Skirts in the Dirt presented by the WMMBA. This isn't a race just for Iceman veterans and dirt fanatics. There will be something for everyone! Check out the race descriptions:

• Girls on Wheels -- Kids Under 12 race for free -- Bring the whole family!. Race begins at 1:30 p.m.
• Never Ever! -- For those ladies who said they'd never race. Never say never!!! You've been out riding and love being on the trail, but are still starting out. Let's keep this fun! Beginner Course, Race begins at 1 p.m.
• ​Weekend Warrior -- You love to ride and maybe even race from time to time. You have probably passed a guy in an Iceman Jersey and politely waved as you pedaled by. 2 laps, race begins at 11:30 a.m.
• Fabulously Fat (Fat bikes only) -- ​For those riders who are always prepared for whatever weather Michigan can throw at them. Your favorite way to ride is with tires 3.5" or wider. Why loose the fat in August? Don't put that bike on a diet! Bikini season is almost over! 2 laps*, race begins at 11:30 p.m.
• Dirt Diva -- Chain lube is in your blood. Quite a few people have no idea what you look like without a bike helmet and dirt on your cheeks -- but you look like a total diva when covered with dirt. 3 laps*, race begins at 10 a.m.

The organizers of the event asked me to help out with the t-shirt design. It was a lot of fun to work on! The design is above. I've also created stickers (because stickers are fun!). Actually I wanted a sticker for myself. I see cars driving around with "26.2" and "13.1" and "ITRI" and wished that I had a sticker to represent what I love to do. Since I was making one for myself anyways, I thought I should just make them available for everyone!

Stickers can be purchased at links below (with customized hair color! Also, the pink isn't quite so pink on the actual sticker):

Blonde Woman : Click Here

Brown Hair : Click Here

Red-head : Click Here

And there are sticker for the Girl mountain bike racers too!

Brown hair : Click Here

Blonde Girl : Click Here

Red-head Girl : Click Here

Having a Snowblast!

Happy Friday everyone!

There have been some disappointing winters in Michigan in recent history. This year however has definitely made up for it in grand Polar-Vortex fashion—I even saw a snownado go by the house yesterday afternoon. It's not unusual for us to get a blast of snow in late October or early November. But it doesn't usually stick around with the relentless force as it has this year.

Muskegon has had over 80" of snow and we have the potential to be hit with at least two more snow storms this week. Coupled with the snow is the frigid temps. I have to say there is a part of me that is a little delighted with the arctic blast. Back in October when I was Christmas shopping for the kids I went overboard in the underwear department and purchased each of the kids multiple sets of expedition weight long underwear AND tall, thick wool socks. The kids are getting their full-use out of these items.

RT: Sage sledding LT: Bear laughing at Sage Sledding. Photos by Aunt Lisa

They have gone sledding just about every weekend. When they aren't sledding, Bear prefers to be inside. However we can't keep Sage in the house. She's either outside shoveling—for shoveling's sake—building a shelter for the animals, making snowmen, or building a stash of snowballs to launch at an unsuspecting Mom or Dad.

Dad has also groomed our very own XC trail through the yard and around to the neighbors.

Bear XC Skiing

We've gone biking . . .

Bear 

And Sage is training for a 10k (this was back on Thanksgiving, but she's been running every week since) . . .

To sum it all up, our family has been having a Snowblast this year!

Snow Shoe Running

While the kids have been making their own fun experiences, Chad and I have been hitting the trails for some quality and challenging snow shoe running. We've both signed up for RBR 25k which means we can't let what some people would call "poor conditions" hold us back from training. 

Kelly, Roxanne, and Myself getting ready to run. Photo by Roxanne

I've been able to meet friends for a couple of runs and even ventured out for solo excursions. Snow shoe running is probably my favorite of all running experiences. Mostly because I get to be out in the woods (which is also why I'm a mountain biker and not a roadie). My first snow shoe run experience was at Big Foot Snow Shoe Race in 2011. At the time I thought I had never suffered so much--of course I was an immediate fan.

Me at Bigfoot Snow Shoe Race in 2011

There is that side of me that is a bit of a masochist and finds a sick enjoyment in torturing myself. Snow shoe running is brutal. As I described it last week to my FB friends: I felt like I was running in place with 10 pound sand bags tied to each ankle for 90 minutes.

While it is challenging there is also a serene side, an escape into the wilderness and away from the cars, the lights, and the crowds. On my run yesterday I climbed to the top of a sand dune and could look out over the treetops to the ice formations on Lake Michigan. I could see all the way past where the ice broke into the blue water. It was breath-taking. Later, as I trudged along, I saw a small burrow where a rabbit must be making his home this winter. There is always so much to see and experience. 

Meanwhile my mileage is falling a bit short of my RBR 25K training plan, I'm comfortably okay with it. I run and bike and "train" in order to enjoy life and to have these amazing experiences--either finishing a race or a view from the top of a sand dune. It's not always about distance or speed. 

Clearly, it's not about speed.

(Actually, will someone please give me a kudos on this run in my Strava account? I'm feeling a little down about my pace. Thanks!)

Some quick-tips for first-time snow shoe runners:

You will get wet. The snow shoes kick up a lot of snow. Make sure to wear good running tights that will help wick away some of the moisture and dry quickly. You may also want to invest in a pair of gaiters. I have a pair of gortex trail-running shoes to help stay dry and warm.

It's a lot harder than running on the road--even a snow-covered, icy road. You may not usually carry water or GU for a 5 mile run through your neighborhood, but trail running in snowshoes is a whole 'nother beast. It requires a lot more energy. I recommend carrying extra nutrition and water for runs 5 miles or greater.

If you are carrying a water bottle in your hand (like I do) stick a toe warmer on the water bottle. Less you want your hand to freeze to it. True story.

You will be slower. Don't worry, you aren't a slower runner per se, it's just the terrain and the cumbersome snow shoes make it that much more challenging. Depending on how hilly the trails are I see anywhere from 1.5-3.5 minute pace slower than my road running pace.

It's okay to walk. Really. There might be sections with snow drifts that cause you to sink up to your thigh. Don't be a soldier. Hiking through that is challenging enough. There's sure to be trail more suitable to running just around the corner.

And have fun.

Goodbye 2013

I'll be honest, 2013 was not my best year. I was not prepared for the challenges of some big life-changes/circumstances that seemed to crop-up at every turn. This included holding our dear cat Gypsy as she was put to sleep--something that was even more difficult than I imagined it would be--and starting a new job with more responsibility. And after years of struggling with certain issues with both of our kids we finally were able to get some answers that has resulted in our family going Gluten and Sugar-Free. That has been a time/financial-suck like no other! But seeing our kids healthy and thriving is well worth the effort.

However, there were some really great moments in 2013 as well. Here are a few worth remembering:

2-week family vacation at Walt Disney World!

I have a history of letting my kids skip school. So I had no qualms about taking my daughter out for a few weeks. Her teacher simply requested that she send some youtube videos to her classmates. You can watch them here, scroll down to the bottom and work your way up!






I got a little more "cool."

I now drive a Subbie.

We had some fun family camping trips exploring Northern Michigan.

And we finally took the kayaks on a camping trip! This was a true moment of joy and peace, paddling the still waters just to the north of the Leelenau Peninsula.

Mastering the fine-art of GF/SF baking! Thank you Spunky Coconut!!!!

Chocolate Peanut-Butter Cupcakes!

Those are some wonderful memories and I'm grateful to be able to look back and have those moments. But there was a significant lack of anything mountain biking or fitness related! My resolution for the new year is to correct that wrong! I have some things lined up for 2014 that I'm really excited about!

Summer in Michigan : Beach time!

Not surprisingly, I've once again fallen behind on updating The Blog. I've been a little busy! One of the greatest things about living on the lakeshore is summertime in Michigan. Even though Lake Michigan feels like it's still hovering at the tipping point of freezing, the kids love splashing on the shoreline and playing.

Picnic at the beach. We had homemade pizza pockets!

Playing Sand Soccer is one of our new favorite activities!

Too cold for me, but they loved it!

Building a Sand Fortress with underground tunnels.

This week Chad and I were finally able to go out for a date-night. When one of our favorite local eateries had a long wait, we decided to try the Red Rooster Tavern on Scenic Drive along Lake Michigan. It was a pleasant surprise.

They have mostly bar food: burgers, sandwiches, pasta, appetizers, etc. Chad had a Rooster Burger and I ordered a Hazelnut and Fig Pannini. We both very much enjoyed our meals and plan on going back. Not to mention, there's a little-known public beach across the street that's great for walking and watching the sunset after dinner.

But we didn't do that. We went hiking at the Muskegon State Park—which I think we have done a couple hundred of times since we've moved to the area almost a decade ago. This time, however, we thought we'd go off the beaten path and explore some deer trails.

After hiking a ways off the trail, I spotted something through the woods. In a small clearing, far from the trails, we discovered this impressive shelter:

I would have liked to go inside and explore the shelter a little bit, but the bugs were biting and we were quickly running out of baby-sitting time. We are hoping to take the kids on an Adventure Hike later this year to do some investigating on this "archaeological" find. After we've thoroughly covered ourselves in bug spray.

I hope everyone reading this blog is enjoying their summer! Our little hike at the state park reminded me that there are still new adventures and discoveries to be had in our own backyards. Get out and explore!

Forget Your Goals.

That "care-free" smile is deceiving . . .  

My daughter likes to go running with me. We hadn't gone in quite some time—our schedules getting jammed-pack in the spring with soccer, work, and school events. When soccer ended a few weeks ago it marked the advent of the running season. I have my running partner again.

This time Sage has set a goal for herself. My amazingly strong-willed daughter has decided that she wants to run a 10k. This goal was cemented and reinforced with steely determination when I told her matter-of-fact that she could not possibly go 6 miles—our longest run has only been 1.5 miles.

In an effort to empower my daughter (after having cut her down significantly), I downloaded the Couch to 10k Program. For those unfamiliar with the C10k program, it is a training program designed for people who are inactive, with no running experience. In 13 weeks it takes someone from zero fitness to being able to finish a 10k run. I had heard somewhere this was a good running program for children.

I explained to Sage that we should approach the schedule like we would a ladder. The bottom rung is where we are now, running anywhere from 3/4 of a mile to 1.5 miles while the top rung, the last week of training, is the 10k race. We can't get to the level of the 10k race without doing every workout, climbing each rung in between. If we follow each step, before we know it, we'll be able to run all 6 miles!

This is a difficult concept for people to digest. Most people look at the end goal, in this case 6 miles, and assume they can't do it. They think about how hard it is to run for five minutes and how much worse it must be to go all 6 miles. It becomes overwhelming, paralyzing even. People give up before they start. I know this because I do it myself. Which is why I planned to keep the training plan a secret and only reveal each days workout as we progressed with the simple promise that by the end of the summer we could do our 10k race.

For three mornings a week I've tapped Sage on the shoulder at 6 AM and whispered in her ear "Ready to run?" It takes her five minutes to be dressed and ready to go, fueled by her enthusiasm and motivation. In spite of the early hour she always wears a smile and is bouncing with energy.

That is until the day she stole the training schedule from me. Her eyes skipped down to the last two weeks of training which included a 40-minute run.

That morning we didn't get halfway down the block before she quit, crying "I can't run for 40 minutes!" We only needed to accomplish several intervals of 4-minute runs that morning, what would normally be an easy task for Sage. That 40-minute workout loomed in her mind like the dark face of Mount Everest. She was at the base of the mountain looking at the peak, at the bottom of the ladder and trying to reach the top. Instead of focusing on reaching the next step, the very-achievable step that would bring her closer to her goal, she focused on what she could not yet do. And gave up.

As you know from my writing I am believer in setting big dreams for ourselves. But it is my firm belief that most of us, after getting our ladder set up and mapping our plans, should forget about that big dream . . . for the time being.

Achieving the next step towards the goal will be challenging, it will be uncomfortable, it will push us beyond our limits, it will take a lot of our energy and focus. Do that first. Do the first step first and then take the next step, then the step after that. Let the end result be at the end. And I promise you, if you are committed to your own "C10k program" you will accomplish your goal.

My uncle likes to remind me of this quote (and I'm glad he does):
By the inch it's a cinch, by the mile it's a trial.

Un-Pause

I'm back by popular demand! Believe-it-or-not I've had a few inquiries as to why the posts have been lagging. The fact is, I've been busy.

I've been Art Directing up a storm.

I wish I could share the covers of the books we'll be releasing in Spring 2014, but unfortunately they are 'top secret' until our catalog goes to press . . . I know you are all dying for a preview!

The one cover I've been furiously piecing together that I am able to share is The Hurt and The Healer by Andrew Farley and Bart Millard (lead singer of Mercy Me). The book should be released just in time for Mercy Me's fall tour. Phew!

I've been full-time Soccer Mom, 

driving children to pratice a few nights a week, faithfully attending games and even coaching a U5 Soccer Team (that's 3-4 year olds). Ever try getting a group of 3 year olds to 'practice' for an hour? To their credit, they were very enthusiastic the first 10 minutes. Beyond that it was all dandelion picking, hand holding, and refusing to participate because the only soccer ball left was pink.

Bear (3yo) playing goalie. 

I purchased a new car.

Since I started commuting 140 miles a day the old Buick has been guzzling every cent in my wallet. It was time to find something a little more MPG friendly. After some shopping around we settled on a much-smaller-than-my-Buick Subaru Crosstreck. MTBR has a nice review on this vehicle. 

Sadly, driving a smaller vehicle has not improved my ability to park inside the lines.

Now that I drive a Subaru I feel that I have fully immersed myself in the mountain biking lifestyle and am epically excited for being able to park in Subaru's VIP Parking section at Iceman this fall--I might just park in there for the heck of it even though we'll be camping at the finish venue again this year.

And we took a family vacation.

While I've been busy orchestrating book covers by day (and night) and transforming to Super Soccer Mom in the evenings, Chad has been working about a billion hours a week and even snuck off for a few days of biking in the mountains. It seemed like it had been weeks since Chad and I had occupied the same space and months since we were altogether as a family. 

Late Friday evening we finally pulled out of the driveway and went North for the long holiday weekend.

Hiking by the river.

Bear taking a snack break halfway through his first ride on the VASA Singletrack.

Running down the dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park.

What I haven't been doing is . . .

Training for Lumberjack.
More on that later.

Common Mistakes I Make When Training, #3 Downplaying the Importance of Nutrition

Read Parts 1, Focusing on Time vs. Quality and 2, The Deep End

Mistake #3: Downplaying the Role of Nutrition

Food is my achilles heal. Doughy breads and pastas are my crutch. And I truly believe down deep in the center of my soft core that Karamel Sutra makes everything better—cures the flu, can turn the ledger ink from red back to black, can heal a marital spat—its truly a miracle medicine.

Unfortunately its "miracle" lies in the placebo effect, we all know what a diet full of bread and ice cream will really do to someone.

On the flip side, when I am following a clean diet it is the single component that has the greatest and fastest impact on improving performance.

I am not a Sports Nutritionist, I have no licensing or professional education. All I have is my personal experiments and knowledge gleaned from Google searches.

Finding a proper balance while regularly doing high-intensity workouts or long endurance rides can be challenging. It's not unusual to get to the evening and be craving a large, heavy meal. Or sometimes I'll find my hunger carries over into the next day and I over-refuel. It's true I burn a lot of calories during those workouts, but in my personal experience, burning 2,000+ calories on a ride is not equal to 2,000+ calories of pizza and beer post-ride.

I know some people that can get away with that. That's never worked for my waistline.

This is what has worked best for me in the past:

Fueling for the workout DURING the workout. The rest of the day eat a normal, healthy, clean diet of lean proteins and lots and lots of vegetables.

What this means for me is that I always have a sports drink in my water bottle and carry some food. I try to take in about 100-200 calories an hour, depending on intensity and duration of the workout. The following is my basic nutritional plan (while eating a lower calorie diet high in vegetable content):

3 mile jog around the neighborhood = 50-100 calories of Endura (or similar) post-run
6 mile run / 60 minute bike ride = 100-150 calories of Endura
90 min ride / 9 mile run = 200-250 calories (100-150 from Endura, 100 from food)
2 hr ride (mod. intensity) = 300 calories (200 from Endura, 100 from food)
2 hr high intensity = 300 calories during + 100 post-ride (banana, chocolate almond milk, etc)
3+ hours = 150 calories from Endura/per hour and 100+ from food every 60-90 minutes

Following this guideline for during workout nutrition I have been able to curb post-ride starvation (which tends to result in post-ride over-indulgence and face-stuffing) while also maintaining high energy levels which allows for a more effective training session.

Food is such an important aspect not only for training but for overall health. Nutrients from food build and repair cells and body tissue, help maintain proper organ function, provide energy and warmth.

While food and following a nutritional meal plan will always be a challenge for me, a clean diet is something that I will never stop pursuing whether training for an event or not.

Common Mistakes I Make When Training, #2 Being Afraid of the Deep End

Part 2 of Common Mistakes I Make When Training. Read part 1 here.

2) Being afraid of the deep end.

It's funny watching my kids learn to swim. When they want a challenge they'll dart under the divider from the shallow end to the deep end then quickly pop back up safely at the depth of 3.5 feet. They are pumped from their dare-devilish flirt with the deep end. It's humorous because you know they've kept one toe safely on the shallow side and never fully plunged into the depth of the pool.

The 'face of suffering' at Iceman finish line 2011

I can easily fall into a similar rut when it comes to cycling (really, this translates to any area of life). I'll begin an interval session with grandiose intentions of plunging into the depth of suffering before coming up for air. All to often, however, I'll feel the darkness close around me and the burning in my legs and think that I've hit deep. In reality I've just flirted with the deep end.

Last week I set out to do a workout with gradually increasing intervals of duration and resistance. Midway into the set my quads burned, I squirmed on the saddle under the weight of the effort. My body was yelling 'good enough! You can back off now!' And I wanted to listen. I really wanted to.

But there was something else lurking in my mind. I recognized that dark place of suffering. I'd been there before. And when you're in a race, once you've hit that level of discomfort you don't get to bob back under the divider to the safety of shallow waters. You live in the deep end for the duration.

Finishing Peak2Peak 2012 which
proved to be a true test of perseverance.

Our bodies are amazing things. We can do so much more than what we think we can. But it is incredibly difficult to push ourselves beyond the boundaries of discomfort. However, it is persevering through that discomfort that we can finally achieve new levels of success and greater fulfillment. It is only when we push ourselves out of our comfort zones that we can expand our 'boundaries' and explore   our true potential.

When I'm training I try to embrace that depth of discomfort because I know that when it gets to race day and I come to the dark place, when I'm gasping for air and my legs feel like blocks of lead, when I am cresting that brutal climb and my body tells me to 'back off, take a break,' I can tell it to 'shut up' and then dive into the deep end.