Archives for June 2013

A Win at the Pacific Crest Endurance Duathlon

June 29, 2013 by Kristen 1 Comment

I have officially challenged my heart, lungs, body, and mind more than ever before. Once upon a time I thought a marathon was hard, but now I have a different belief. Period.

The Pacific Crest endurance duathlon was one of the most humbling and rewarding experiences of my life, albeit one of the most physically challenging moments as well.

After a night dreaming endlessly of biking and running in various conditions and passing through diverse obstacles, I awoke with butterflies and energy. Yes, lets do this! My husband greeted me downstairs with a card, twinkle lights, and “trophy.” He sure knows how to fire up my spirits.

We drove to Sunriver and dropped off my running gear at the second transition. With every mile closer to the start, the adrenaline became more intense flowing through me.

Standing at the starting line, just me and the bike, uncertainty both excited and scared me to death. Two by two we lined up and approached the starting line. Clipped in and GO!

I love being on the bike. The speed. The air. The scenery. The pavement below. I absorb all of it. Although several of the TT bikes were zooming past me (a bit frustrating at times) I felt at home with my Trek Madone.

I even was welcomed on a number of occasions with my mom and step-dad, who rode along, cheered, and took pictures. They were an awesome support team.

It took me roughly 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete the 58.5 mile ride. I was in good spirits as I dismounted at the transition – notice that smile? I will never get over that funny feeling of immediately running, and in bike shoes at that, after being on a bike that long.

My first thought when I saw my running shoes awaiting me at my 3×5 foot space was, “what? I am going to now run 13 miles. Really?” It got to me mentally, and as I started to run away on my 13-mile journey, panic set in.

After only a few steps onto the course, I suddenly found the nearest sage brush and threw up. The heat and intensity was hurting. I ran a few steps more and started to feel pressure deep in my lungs. What is this? I have never felt this way during a run before in my life!

Suddenly an angel appeared → my husband. He was in his car, but pulled over and ran toward me. Mentally, I was done. He made me walk, got my breathing back in line, and encouraged me to finish what I started. Wow! I married well. 🙂 I got my pace and air back and kept going. There was an aid station every mile. It was in the mid 90s and noon – very defeating to a body.

Mile after mile passed. It is amazing what went through my head during that hour and fifty minutes. At one point I was even talking out loud to my dad, asking him to help get me through it. Very emotional.

But, I did not quit. Seeing Justin’s face along the way, as he met me at various aid stations, kept me going.

I crossed the finishing line at 5 hours 11 minutes, clocked at my time chip. When I saw the cheering crowd and blue flags that flaunted “FINISH” everything became OK.

When I crossed the timing mat and heard my name called out followed by “the first female duathlete to finish” I got teary eyed. The last five hours were a blur, but that moment was flawless and unforgettable.

Justin and I hung out for a few hours and enjoyed the atmosphere. I was on the ultimate high.

The awards ceremony was entertaining and I sat back, enjoyed my Deschutes Brewery Chainbreaker, and engaged in conversation with the people lounging around me. I was called up to the stage area where I received a glass plaque, medal, bag of goodies, and loaf of bread. Yes, the first bread I have ever “won”. The excitement on my face says it all.

A final goodbye to Sunriver and Pacific Crest, I walked away feeling accomplished and happy. What a remarkable day and celebrated learning experience. A special thanks to Justin Yax, Sandy Sherritt, and Billy Sherritt, for helping me make it through.

Final Training Day for Pacific Crest

June 27, 2013 by Kristen Leave a Comment

Today was my final training (taper) day before the Pacific Crest Endurance Duathlon this Saturday. Central Oregon finally had a rainless day, so I was able to skip the spin bike and reunite with my Trek.

I started out with a 45-minute, 15-mile ride and transitioned to a three mile run. The ride was actually tough as I faced a tough climb + headwind combined. The run actually felt great. Running >8 minute miles after a ride is right where I want to be before heading into the race.

While in the midst of my ride and run, I complied some random thoughts regarding training for an endurance event.

1) GU, Luna Bars, Shotblocks, and Peanut Butter are a body’s best friend. Always have food on hand – even if there is a placebo effect. ☺

2) Races are expensive. I paid $3.60 cents for every mile I will be biking/running on Saturday.

3) Note to self: Keep mouth closed when flying downhill at high speeds. Large bugs may provide protein – but at what expense?

4) Swearing at the wind will not change the fact that it wants to make your life miserable…but, regardless…

5) I love my Ipod. My New Music 2013 playlist makes running easy. La La La

6) I am so ready for this race.

7) Why are my feet starting to tingle and go numb? Relax and use different muscles groups – you will need those feet in good shape for the run.

8) At that ^ do I look wobbly and just wrong while transitioning to the run? I feel as though things jiggle a lot more once off the bike.

9) Toilet paper is amazing. Bathrooms are as good as gold.

10) You know you’re a multisport athlete when you count more than four different tan lines from various gear.

11) I am bad at afternoon workouts. Thank goodness for energy in the mornings.

12) BRING IT Pacific Crest – I’m ready!!!

Santa Ynez Valley

June 26, 2013 by Kristen 1 Comment

It was great to see that Redmond was, once again, offering direct flights to LA. Justin and I hopped on the 8:00am flight in route to spend a week in Southern California, or more specifically, the Santa Ynez Valley. Although this was a business trip for Justin, I was able to relax and enjoy some time away in a place I probably would never have stumbled upon on my own.

After getting our rental car, we enjoyed a two-hour drive to Santa Barbara where we did a little shopping and had a small bite to eat at a cute restaurant called blush. I also sipped on their happy hour white wine – very crisp and refreshing.

Following a few hours in Santa Barbara and a quick trip over the hills, we fell into the Santa Ynez Valley and the cute western themed town of Santa Ynez. Upon arrival we checked into the Santa Ynez Inn, a luxurious boutique hotel with a lot of uniqueness and charm. Our room was unlike any I have ever stayed in – spacious and elegant (did I mention the heated marble bathroom floors?!)

That evening we ate at a highly recommended Mexican restaurant called Dos Carlitos and it definitely did not disappoint. Justin had the Pacific Halibut Veracruzano, while I feasted on the Burrito Mariscos – filled with halibut, shrimp, and scallops – YUM!

I also tried a couple different margaritas and my favorite was the red hibiscus. This little bottle of Don Julio was a souvenir!

The next day started off with a pleasant five mile run along beautiful farms and wineries, while Justin took care of a few work tasks. We then headed to Los Alamos to have lunch at Bell Street Farm, a unique farm to table experience that one cannot pass up. The owner and chef, Jamie, makes everyone feel relaxed and at home and he makes one heck of a rotisserie pork salad). This place is a MUST!

Venturing on, we visited two wineries in the region that were mentioned during lunch by a few of the locals. Demetria was our first stop, followed by Zaca Mesa. Although the drive to Demetria is quite long, the authentic wine country surrounding the windy road is well worth the trip. What a great place to relax, enjoy a snack, sip some wine, and escape the rush of life.

That evening we made reservations at an Italian restaurant called Trattoria Grappolo and were seated in a nice area on the patio where we appreciated a warm sun and nice breeze. Justin and I both ordered a pasta dish, since we rarely eat it back at home. Both dishes were good.

Excited for our next adventure, Tuesday morning we put on our bike attire and headed across the street to the bike shop. We were fortunate to take out a couple Specialized bikes, as the 50 miles ahead were not going to be easy, or smooth for that matter. We rode past farms, near wineries, through picturesque towns, and over robust hills, all while battling a nice wind. Although difficult, the ride was memorable and scenic!

After we finished our “more challenging than expected” ride, Justin and I immediately decided that lunch would take place at Sides Hardware and Shoes. Yes, the name is probably the most unusual name for a restaurant (EVER), but it is my favorite place to eat in the Santa Ynez Valley. We sat outside in the perfect sunlight and dove in to a Big West Burger (Justin) and Bacon Burger (Guilty). Even the table of women next to us (with their salads) questioned our ability to bite in…

After 50 miles on a bike with a strong headwind, even after consuming a large burger and fries, your appetite does not cease. Thus, that evening we splurged again at the SY Kitchen, munching on burger sliders and pasta. We both preferred this Italian restaurant to Trattoria Grappolo, which we had eaten at the night before. This is a new, up-and-coming restaurant in Santa Ynez, and the critics don’t lie…great atmosphere and authentic Italian cuisine.

Our last day in the Santa Ynez Valley started in Buelton, the largest town in the Valley. As Justin was there for work, we met up with a few of his clients and colleagues for lunch and touring the town of Solvang. We had a descent meal at the Greenhouse Café and enjoyed nice conversation on the patio.

It was suggested that we visit the Dierberg Winery out past Buelton, which we had passed on our bikes, so we took a quick trip and explored the area and tasting venue. The wine was delish and the company even better.

Rushing back to our hotel, we quickly changed for the wine walk and outdoor theater event we were to attend later that evening at the Solvang Theater. The production was Fiddler on the Roof, and it did not for a second disappoint. Watching the play, well into the sunset, with my husband was a fantastic way to end our time in the Valley. Until we meet again…

As we left the Valley the following day, we were filled with anticipation, as we knew Disneyland was hours away. Tickets purchased, energy loaded, and kid faces on, we entered the park and began our Disney Journey. Rides, Disney characters, skipping, walking, more rides, popcorn, goofiness, more rides, and fireworks…it was magical.

We even had a yummy dinner at Tortilla Jo’s

Greenville and a Trip to the Biltmore

June 11, 2013 by Kristen Leave a Comment

Maui, Hawaii

June 11, 2013 by Kristen Leave a Comment

Playa Del Carmen and Tulum

June 9, 2013 by Kristen Leave a Comment

Turks & Caicos

June 9, 2013 by Kristen Leave a Comment

Cabo San Lucas

June 9, 2013 by Kristen 2 Comments

One of my favorite places in Mexico is Cabo San Lucas. It’s an easy two flights away, has a great nightlife, great restaurants, and lots of water activities. We stayed at the Villa de Estancia which was incredible and made a number of memories while there.

Every night we had fun getting dressed up and going out to dinner. Mexican food is my FAVORITE!
We also got to watch some football on the big screen while kicking back with an adult beverage at Barometro.
We took a water taxi over to Lover’s Island to enjoy both the Pacific Ocean and Gulf. It was a relaxing afternoon of playing in the ocean and napping on the sand. Our favorite night out for dinner. The sunset was incredible. We went to a glass blowing factory where I lucked out and got to put my lungs to the test. It was awesome! A little pool action. And swing action. And this… A little halfway through our trip, Justin and I headed out early one morning on our own private fishing boat for a full day of fishing! Justin caught a variety of beauties. Including a Sailfish on a fly. Me? Well I caught this giant beast that took over two hours to reel in! My first, and probably only, Blue Marlin. We were able to take some of the meat from our catch and have it cooked up at Maro’s Shrimp House. And then of course, we met some friends along the way. A great way to end the trip!

Dirty Half Marathon

June 9, 2013 by Kristen Leave a Comment

Three years ago I told myself I would never run the Dirty Half Marathon again, but I obviously lost an argument with myself when I signed up. Healthier and stronger, I decided to give it another try. The race was two weeks after completing the Happy Girls, so I felt confident and ready to release the legs.

The race started with a cloudless sky and sunshine. I was in the first wave, taking off at the BOOM of the gun.

The race is called the Dirty Half for a reason as a significant portion of the route is on dusty, rocky, single-track trails. Basically, you follow the person in front of you (remember lining up in Kindergarten?) while breathing in and wearing their dust. Sexy, I know. Not only is the trail a dirt bowl, the first seven miles consists of a gradual climb Up Up Up.

The challenge of the elevation (3,700-4,100ft), endless line of traffic (you have to hurdle the sage brush or round a tree in order to pass), and rocky terrain (you look away from the ground for a moment you are toast) make this race what it is – and that is awesome!

As you make the final ascent (yes, uphill) to the finish line, the screaming fans, bells, horns, and entertainment (music, booths, beer garden, etc.) make it all worthwhile.

I finished in 1:49 – about 15 minutes faster than three years prior. That is why I run.

Honeymoon Part 2: Bora Bora

June 8, 2013 by Kristen 1 Comment

After we left Moorea, we jumped on a charter plane for an hour flight to Bora Bora. It was absolutely gorgeous flying over several of the Polynesian Islands and watching the water turn different shades of blue. When we arrived the Bora Bora it was instantly magical.

The water was a crazy color of blue. Because the airport is located on its own little island, we had to jump on a boat to get to our resort. It was an unexpected surprise.

As we pulled up to the Hilton Bora Bora Nui the first thing I noticed were the HUGE overwater penthouse bungalows that stretched far into the ocean.

We pulled into the the large dock of our resort, were greeted with a warm welcome, and escorted via golf cart to our overwater bungalow. It was by far one of the most incredible places I have ever seen.

We poured a glass of champagne and took a celebratory walk around the resort. It is located on its own island, therefore you can walk quite a distance.

Here’s an idea of where we ate breakfast each morning and lunch on a couple of occasions.

What our views were like when walking around the resort.

There were a couple of days when we took a boat taxi to the main island to stock up on groceries and drinks or go out to eat. The town always seemed lively.

Everyone was really friendly toward us – Justin and I even hitch hiked a couple times to get around (instead of taking the tour bus or paying an expensive cab fare).

We even found our own little section of beach that we had all to ourselves for the afternoon. It was Heaven!

During the evenings we would walk around, enjoy the sunset, and head to dinner. On island time we were always up early and in bed around 9pm – always exhausted!

We were definitely sad on our last day and did not want to leave. Waiting on the dock for the boat to pick us up and take us away.

On our way out, I captured a photo of this cloud formation in the sky – a heart. What this all a dream? Were we really here? Yes – and it was UNFORGETTABLE!