Healthy & Gluten-free snacking and fueling! NoGii Gluten-Free Protein Bars, Powder and Paleo Bar review....love them!

I was lucky enough to have Moms Meet send me a huge package of NoGii entire line of products, including the book, The G Free Diet and a fabulous shirt as well. I felt so spoiled opening up this package and seeing how generous and how many awesome products that were included.

Awesome sample swag pack!

NoGii is a line of certified gluten-free protein bars, protein powders, and paleo bars created by Elisabeth Hasselbeck. Made from high quality and sustainably sourced premium ingredients, all products have an ideal balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates and do not contain high fructose corn syrup, trans fats, or hydrogenated oils. They're a perfect way to get a punch of protein and quick, clean fuel for an on-the-go and active lifestyle. 

The package contained a TON of protein bars, which was the first thing that I wanted to try. I love having protein bars on hand because it's a perfect way to fuel pre or post-workout, especially when short on time or leading a busy lifestyle. There were many different flavors to choose from and also a choice of high protein and super protein bars. The high protein bars range from 17 to 20 grams of protein per bar and are under 250 calories so perfect for a snack or energy boost. The super protein bars had 26 to 30 grams of protein in each single bar! Talk about a protein punch!  The super protein bars are about 400 calories a piece so on the higher end for calories. I actually usually just eat half a bar at a time to keep it around my 200-250 calorie snack goal. I definitely keep one of these bars in all my different bags (purse, diaper bag, yoga bag) and car for quick and healthier snack.

I reached for the chocolate coconut flavor (a high protein bar) first and it was AMAZING! This flavor was by far my favorite one and they didn't last too long in our house (my husband was pretty excited to give these a try too).  To be honest, all the flavors that I have tried were all great tasting and none tasted chalky or dry like some other competitors. I liked that they were chewy and weren't overly sweet to me. Having all natural ingredients (that you can actually pronounce) was a huge bonus and made me feel better about what I was eating. 

Definitely my favorite flavor! 

Also included was paleo bars. I've never seen paleo bars made by a manufacturer before (always see recipes to make your own on Pinterest). These bars are made with all natural ingredients (main ingredients are nuts, dates, honey, and fruits). They have a lower protein content compared to their other products, but they taste great and offer a lot of healthy fats and vitamins from the nuts and fruit in the bars. My favorite was the Nuts About Berries flavor. The tartness from the cherries was nicely balanced by the nuttiness. 

I also received a 2 pound jug of the vanilla Whey and Quinoa Protein Powder. I've had several different brands of protein powder in the past, but none that contained quinoa as well. Quinoa is an amino-acid rich seed that contains more protein than any other grain, and is higher in unsaturated fats and lower in carbohydrates. I'm very reluctant when it comes to protein powders because I feel like most taste pretty terrible. I reluctantly added this to my strawberry banana smoothie and was pleasantly surprised as I loved the addition. It tasted great and added a smooth vanilla flavor to my smoothie. Two scoops of powder (a serving) contains 20 grams of protein, 160 calories, 5 grams of sugar and a ton of fiber (7 grams or 28% of your daily value).

Awesome in smoothies!

Even my toddler loved it!

Overall, I was really pleased with all of these products and would recommend them to anyone trying to lead a clean eating or gluten-free diet. They tasted great, the nutritional facts were on point and they provided a quick and easy source of protein. The only downside to the products that I could find was that they were a bit above my preferred price range (for example, NoGii’s High Protein Peanut Butter & Chocolate Bar retails for $2.50 to $2.99 for one 1.93oz bar). 

If you're interested in learning more about NoGii's product line be sure to visit their website at www.nogii.com and check out their Facebook page as well. 

I received this product for free from the sponsor of the Moms Meet program, May Media Group LLC, who received it directly from the manufacturer. As a Moms Meet blogger, I agree to use this product and post my opinion on my blog. My opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of May Media Group LLC or the manufacturer of this product. If interested in participating in review panels and other opportunities, join the Moms Meet community at greenmomsmeet.com 

12 Tips for a Safe & Stress-Free Stroller Run! #StrollerRun15

Being a stay at home mom, there are many days that it can be really difficult to get a workout in. I often take advantage of nap time for a quick yoga session or HIIT, but some days there are other chores/errands/etcetera that need to be done during that time. I'm thankful enough that I was generously gifted a wonderful jogging stroller and I LOVE IT!

It's so convenient being able to pop our toddler in and go. We both love being able to get some fresh air, it can lull him to sleep if need be, stimulates his senses, allows me to get a good sweat session in and allows each of us to zen out for a bit. I'm thankful that he really digs being in his stroller (the faster we run, the better), but there are definitely steps that I take that can make it much smoother of a run.

Below are a few tips for making your stroller runs smooth and tear-free!

1. SNACKS! - I always make sure to have snacks on hand for our son. If he starts to get a little antsy, giving him some yummy fish crackers, fruit or raisins to nosh on can completely allow me to get another mile or two in. 
   
2. DRINKS! - Make sure to pack drinks for both of you! A lot of the time I'm so busy getting his stuff together, that I forget my own drink. DOh! There's been a time or two where his sippy cup definitely came in handy for me as well. Lol. 
   
3. DRESS APPROPRIATE - I get super hot quickly, so I always wear lots of layers. Make sure to do the same for your kiddo. Remember, while you might be hot, your child could be cooler since he's not expending very much energy while sitting there are you run (plus the wind from movement can add a chill). I always keep a light blanket in his stroller for additional warmth or sun coverage. A hat to shield your child's face is a must too for sunny days. Don't forget bright colors and reflectors on clothing as well. 
4. SUNSCREEN - Use it and use it liberally. I always lather both of us up a half hour before heading out the door to make sure to have full protection. 
5. ID - Always carry ID. You never know when you might need it or in case of emergency. I usually keep $10 in my stroller too, just in case.
6. ATTACHED TOYS - We have toys that are always in the stroller and attached via links. No one wants to have to backtrack when a favorite toy is thrown out and also it prevents potential trips and falls. 
   
7. WRIST STRAP! - I cannot stress this enough, use the wrist strap that comes with your jogging stroller. If you don't have one, get one ASAP. Using the straps ensures that if you were to fall or lose grip of the stroller that you child and stroller don't go flying down a hill, ravine, into water and so on. I've read tragic stories of parents losing control of strollers with dire consequences. It's not worth it and gives you additional peace of mind. This story solidified it for me. PLEASE, use one. Accidents happen.  
   
8. BRAKES/LEVERS - If you need to stop, use the back brakes or levers so that the stroller doesn't roll off with your precious cargo.
9. RUNNING FORM - Be aware of your running form. It can take some time and practice to get used to running with a stroller. Your gait changes and arms are actively being used. Run tall, don't slouch and alternate what arm you use to hold the handle.
10. SCHEDULE WISELY - Don't go during your child's fussy times (before meals, while tired unless you want them to nap while you run). 
11. 5 POINT HARNESS - I highly recommend a stroller with a 5 point harness. They protect your child better in case of a quick stop.
12. AGE - Be aware of what age is safe for your child to ride in a jogging stroller. Most professionals warn against jogging with a stroller before 6 months of age (some even 12 months). While young, their neck muscles are not strong enough to support their heads and for the potential jarring motions during a run.

May 31st, is National Stroller Running Day! If you don't have a jogging stroller and are looking to purchase one, now is a great time to do so since many companies (BOB gear definitely is and their strollers rock!) are offering amazing promotions in celebration. 

For more information on National Stroller Running Day check out Moms Little Running Buddy! Also, be sure to tag your photos on Instagram with #StrollerRun15

Do you plan on getting out and running this National Stroller Running Day? 

Do you have tips for a great stroller run? 

Surprise Yoga Love Swag from Lululemon...My Lucky Day!

I feel like this week has been a mini Christmas with all the goodies that have shown up at my house. I've recently signed up with a few blogger ambassador programs and cannot believe the generosity of the companies and the awesome products they have sent. You guys will likely hear about a lot of these products in the upcoming weeks but today I just wanted to send a special shout out to Lululemon and their awesome social media team.

As some of you know, I'm a pretty avid Twitter user (say hi!) and often use the platform to get ideas and recommendations on products. I randomly tweeted out to the twitter-sphere asking for recommendations on a new yoga mat since I've been looking to upgrade now that my practice has become more serious. Several minutes later I receive this response from Lululemon:

Definitely intrigued, I quickly respond to be asked for my size, address and being told I was receiving a surprise! Not even 24 hours later, these beauties showed up on my doorstep:

Love the colors!

Sticky & thick....love it so far! 

LOVE! This was the exact mat I had been looking at as it's suppose to be a great option for hot yoga since it's extra sticky and absorbs sweat (I'm laying in a puddle after being in class 30 minutes). I can't wait to give this a try next week at class and have already had a few short practice sessions on my own at home. I'll definitely let you know what I think after a few classes. The shirt is super comfy too. Loose, breathable and will be fabulous for yoga or long runs this hot summer.

I just thought it was a pretty amazing response from what seems to be a pretty cool company and I'm definitely feeling pretty lucky and grateful. They've definitely caught my attention as a consumer and I'll remember them more in the future for athletic purchases.

A little deck yoga action for the #MayIBeginYoga2015 challenge

Even little man is into it. 

The giving spirit caught after this too. I had a large bag of clothes that I had been meaning to sell (through online facebook re-sell groups), but decided I'd give them away instead since I've received some great goodies lately. Feels good to clean house and help some others out as well.

This is in no way sponsored...just my personal experience and wanting to share what I consider an awesome surprise. 

Running season has begun! Tri to Finish's Cinco de Mayo 5k & 10k run race recap!

This Saturday was our first 5k of the year and it was a perfect day to start the season! We woke up to a bright and warm morning (which has been an oddity here until recently), got ready, dropped the kiddo off at his grandparents and made our way to Flint to Swartz Creek Golf Course to pick up our bib and race swag for the Tri To Finish Cinco de Mayo 5k.

Registration went quick and I loved this years shirts too! Soft cotton blend and a women's fit so this is a shirt I'll most likely be wearing pretty often. Anymore, my "mom" wardrobe consists of race shirts and tanks. Lol. We also received sombreros, a few product samples in the race bag and Redbox vouchers (perfect for lazy evenings after race days). I also ran into an old college friend, who was working on the timing of the race, so it was nice to catch up real quick.

Once we were all set we headed to the starting line, which was about a 1/4 walk (a nice warm-up) and got our positions. Ryan and I were both feeling a bit sluggish that morning (no coffee!) so we were trying to amp ourselves up for the run since we both wanted to at least beat our times from last year and I really wanted to place in my age bracket. I don't think that either of us were feeling super confident going into the race since we hadn't really ran all that much the past month (all my runs had been short or easy runs since it was before or after yoga). We made our way to the front of the crowd since we didn't want to get stuck behind walkers and having to dodge our way through. We joked that this would be the first time in our lives that we'd ever be following the lead bike.

Pre-race

The race began and we both worked into getting into our cadence. Ryan darted ahead (wayyyy faster than me) and I paced myself with a girl that looked like she was in my age group. I'm terrible with pacing myself so I always look for another racer to follow and hopefully surpass (anyone else do this?). The race course is an out and back and is full of a ton of climbs and declines and through a residential neighborhood and it's actually part of the CRIM course (you pass the 7 mile marker on the course). Hilly courses are my favorite, despite the fact that they kill me. I felt pretty good until mile 2 when i started getting stitches and had to walk a few seconds. :(  I came around the final bend and saw that I was going to be cutting it close to the 27 minute mark and just missed it (darn those stitches!)! Oh well, I was still pumped about my finish since I hadn't trained much and it was fast than prior races.

One of the things I love the most about this race is that everyone get's finisher medals. I'm always really bummed when I find out that a race doesn't give a medal. Also, everyone gets race photos too,  without paying for them and the normal ridiculous photo fees! There was also an after-party with Mexican breakfast foods (eggs & chorizo, beans, tortillas, bananas, apples, etc) from Rico's. I love the atmosphere at the Tri to Finish races. It's always a super friendly, happy and supportive group/community of runners, organizers and volunteers. I actually ended up exchanging info with the runner I was pacing so hopefully we can get together for some runs/races in the future as well.

Post-race glow

Refueling with some mexican food!

Once we checked results, we found out that Ryan & I both placed first in our age groups! That was a first for both of us! I finished the 5k in 27:01 (1st place in 30-34 year group and 18/198 overall) and Ryan finished in 23:48 (1st in 25-29 age group and 8/198 overall --- I'm totally jealous of his pace!). It was definitely a great way to start the running season!

Speed demon!

Both gals were great! Third place ran the whole thing with her baby in a
 jogging stroller too (a tough run on that hilly course)!

Did you have any races this weekend or coming up soon?

Rolling into fitness: We're now a cycling family, toddler included!

Five years ago, my husband surprised me with a surprise anniversary trip to San Franscisco (awesome right? Major points to him). That was definitely one of my favorite destinations that we have been to and I really hope to visit again someday in the not so distant future. While there, we rented hybrid Trek bikes and it was the best decision that we made. Since we were there for a long weekend we wanted to see as much as we could in a short period of time and the bikes gave us the ability to do so. Riding bikes there reminded us so much of how freeing and fun it can be zooming around on bikes. San Francisco consists of hill after hill and provides an intense workout, whether walking or biking. We definitely got an intense workout everyday navigating those hills.

Anyways...that trip ignited our desire to have some bikes of our own and today we finally took the plunge and made the investment. Now that were settled in our home and Aiden is old enough to ride in a trailer, we felt like it was the perfect time. We bought 2 Schwinn hybrids, a tow behind bike trailer and helmets (must have!!) for everyone. I cannot wait to get out and cruise around (we still have to install the hitch and rack on the car to get them home).

A's styling ride. It's a Schwinn Echo Double Trailer.

Ryan's Schwinn Men's Suburban bike

My white beauty, a Schwinn Network 1.0 700c Hybrid bicycle

We're lucky enough to live near some pretty great trails with gorgeous scenery (Kensington in Milford, Indian Springs in White Lake and Holly Recreation are a few of my favorites) and I have a feeling that this year we will be checking out a lot more areas than ever before and these will be perfect for adventures during our trips up north this summer. I've thrown around the idea of trying out a triathlon or duathlon for years so maybe now that I have all the gear, I'll take the plunge. I just love that this adds another way to get out and be active as a family. Were so busy sometimes that I hate to take family time away by going and doing fitness endeavors on my own, so being able to do this as a family is a win-win for everyone. And as always, it's so important for your children to have a healthy, active role model in their life too so I really try emulate that sentiment for our son. 

Since it's been years since I've rode a bike consistently, I really need to familiarize myself with rules, laws and all the safety guidelines. AND I'm a bit nervous about the ride behind trailer and really, really hope that Aiden enjoys it. I'd hate to have this be a struggle each time we go out (plus, those trailers are expensive!). He loves going as fast as possible in the jogging stroller, so I'm hoping that that is a good sign. 

For those of you that bike often, any newbie or beginner tips? 

Anyone have any must-have jewels of wisdom for cycling with a toddler? 

Any Michigan cycling trails that we must check out? 

It's almost running season! Time to start planning.

The sun is out, the temps are finally out of the teens, and the snow will hopefully be melting soon. I feel like this winter has been the absolute longest winter yet. The bitter cold temps made it nearly impossible to leave the house and spend any time outside, especially with a toddler. I'm ready to get out of this house and have had the worst case of cabin fever ever.

The warmer temperatures and bright sun have me itching to get out and run. I've ran on and off through the winter when temps were above 20 degrees, but it's tough getting out often since I do most of my running in the later evenings or with a jogging stroller. So for the last few months it's been a ton of yoga, HIIT and kickboxing.

Pretty, but over it!

I won't miss this!

Now that it's spring, I've been busy making some race season goals and plans:

• Run one race a month
• Run a half marathon 
• Increase overall speed (would love an under 25 minute 5k)

I like the idea of having a race every single month (starting in April) because it will keep me motivated and having something to look forward to is always a bonus. I'm planning on having a mix between some 5k's, 10k's, a 20k and the half marathon. I'm aiming to run the half marathon by late June to mid July. 

  

The race lineup so far: 

Tri to Finish Cinco de Mayo 10k in Flint (May)

Fenton Tiger Run 5k in Fenton (May)

Volkslaufe 20k in Frankenmuth (July)
Crim 10 mile in Flint (August - one of my favorites!)

My half marathon is still undecided, so if you have any recommendations for an awesome first half marathon in Michigan, let me know. I'm also looking for some recommended training plans too. The longest distance race I've ran was the CRIM (10 miles) last August and I prepped for that by just running a lot, without any real plan. I'd like to have a more structured plan for the half marathon.

I was thankful enough to be able to get a few walks in this week with the kiddo. We both enjoyed the fresh air and warm sunlight.

We love our Ergo baby carrier! New moms...this is a must have!

Loving the sunlight! 

Next weeks temperatures are expected to be in the mid 40's! You can bet that I'll be out there ASAP! I cannot wait to get outside again.

What are your running goals for this year? 

What's the longest distance race you've done? 

If you have any long distance running tips, fill me in. I'd love to hear them all! 

Join the prAna & FitApproach #TakeTheLeap Yoga challenge!

Several days ago the prAna and FitApproach #TakeTheLeap yoga challenge began. I LOVE yoga challenges, but sometimes have a hard time staying consistent with them, especially as many of them seem to be aimed at extremely advanced yogi's. I've done yoga for several years, but took some time away from it when I got pregnant because I had no energy left after working full time (I wish I had stayed with it through pregnancy though).

The last few months, I've been working hard into getting into a new solid yoga routine. We've recently had a new yoga studio open up in town (The Yoga Retreat & Boutique) so it's been so fabulous to go to classes again. I look forward to it every weekend and it's a great time for me to be able to zen out and refocus. The great thing about the prAna and FitApproach #taketheleap challenge is that you can choose your daily pose. It's completely up to you so you can work toward your own goals and use the poses that feel and work best for your body. There's no showing up one another and forcing a pose that may not be suitable for you and your body. One of my goals is to work towards inversions again, but it's going to be a long road to get there and I don't want to rush it and risk hurting myself. 

Another bonus to the challenge: PRIZES! When you join the challenge you become eligible to win $500 worth of new prAna gear (they have AMAZING stuff, check this top out) and able to gift $500 to a person of your choice. Pretty awesome, right? 

Below are my first 4 poses to start the challenge off...

A little loving from my boys...

Join the challenge on Instagram (add me!), Twitter (follow me!) and on your blog by using the hashtags:

• #TakeTheLeap
• #Prana
• #FitApproach

Also tag @prana and @fitapproach! 

Don't forget to join the Facebook group and event page!

Hope to see you there! NAMASTE!

Clarkston Back Roads Half Marathon and 10k Race Recap

A couple weeks ago, Ryan and I ran the Clarkston Back Roads Half Marathon & 10k and I'm so glad that we decided to do this race. It was a really chilly morning, but the gorgeous sites during the run were well worth the initial chill.

I had been looking forward to this race for awhile, but as the date approached I was reluctant since just the week before I took a really hard fall while running. The sidewalks where I run are in terrible shape and I caught my toe while running and super-manned right near a busy intersection. I jacked up my knee, hip and hands in the process, but I think my ego was hurt more than my body, as motorists stopped to see if I was ok. LOL. Anyways, I was definitely feeling the fall a few days later and it made me a bit nervous about running the 10k.

Thank goodness for running gloves! My hands would
have been destroyed without them!

The morning of the run was a chilly one, but it was a nice because this race has a later start (9:30), so it was beginning to warm up a bit and sun peeked out now and then as the race was beginning. I was shocked at how many half marathon runners there were. The start was a little confusing at first because it was difficult to hear what was going on, but after a few minutes everything was cleared up. I started in between the 9:00 and 10:00 pace, but wished that I had jumped up to a quicker corral. I think that I've been taking it too slow from the start during some races lately and it's hurting my time. I'm always afraid I'll push too hard and burn out before the end, but I think I need to push harder.

Staying warm pre-race!

Hubby pre-race! He sped ahead of me (he's faster than I)

The course was super hilly and gorgeous. We looped around the lake and at one point passed a bunch of horses that were galloping around and right near the runners. It was really a cool thing to see mid-race. As difficult as hills are, I love them during races and the challenge they provide. The course was a mix of cement path, dirt road and small trails. The runners were all great about getting over and letting runners pass and there were fabulous volunteers throughout! I was really impressed at how seriously they took runners safety and how well marked the race path was.

I felt pretty good until about the 3 mile marker and my knee started bugging me. I kept pushing through it and eventually the pain subsided some and then went away completely! I felt like the last few miles of the race passed pretty quickly, I was really happy with my time, especially battling a mild injury and for not train all that much (I got a little relaxed on the training after the Free Press Marathon). There was a fun after party with the Clarkston Union Mac n Cheese (the best in Southeast Michigan), MIP beer (which tasted great!), live music and small fires to warm up.  This is definitely a race that I'll be doing again and next time I'll likely try to do the half marathon. I really loved that it was a trail run and all the great and friendly runners that participated. I think that I'm starting to prefer trail races a bit more than road races now.

I was pretty happy with my pace and place for not being 100%. My husband, Ryan, finished 2nd in his age group! Mr. Speedy!

YUM! My favorite!

Finish line is in sight! I totally thought I was going
 to wipe out here since it was downhill!

Do you prefer trail run or road races? 

What type of races or running do you do more often?

Premier Protein #MixedBerrySmoothie Review

I was recently sent some Mixed Berry Smoothie's to try from Premier Protein. I was excited to receive this product as I'm always looking for fast, quick and affordable protein options. There are many mornings and afternoons where this would be a perfect energy boost, especially with a very active baby running around the house and being limited in time or on-the-go. These smoothies have a great balance of carbs, fats and proteins that provide a long-lasting source of energy.

Let me just say, I was shocked by how great these smoothies tasted.  I rarely, if ever, find protein drinks that I like and I was pleasantly surprised at the flavor and that they didn't taste chalky at all. They tasted awesome and definitely a product that I'll be purchasing!

Another thing that I really liked about this product is that it has 60% less sugar than the leading refrigerated protein smoothies. I find that most contained WAY too much sugar for my liking. Each serving has 5 grams of fiber, 15 grams of protein and 140 calories, which makes it a healthy, delicious choice for a morning boost. midday snack or post-workout fuel.

Since I'm still breastfeeding and continuously training for various running races (10k trail run this weekend!), I'm constantly trying to add additional protein to my diet to help keep my supply up and keep my body fueled. Nursing women need 20 grams more protein a day than they did before pregnancy to support milk production so having just one smoothie daily helps me to nearly reach that goal. Plus, it's also loaded with many other essential vitamins and minerals.

Check out all those nutritional stats friends!

Mom and baby approved!

If you're interested in trying these awesome smoothies yourself, check out the following links to grab a $4 off coupons from Meijer and/or Kroger (don't forget to #ShareGoodEnergy and these savings with others):

• Meijer (its their mPerks so no printing necessary!)
• Kroger (digital coupon to load onto shopping card)

Disclosure: I received this product for free in exchange for writing a blog review. Although this post is sponsored, all opinions are my own.

Tri To Finish Cinco De Mayo Race Review....and Triathlon talk!

A little overdue, but life's been busy with a new infant and changing of jobs! There sure is a new normal of getting things done once you have a baby in the house...still adapting to that change. :) 

Anyways...

This past May, Ryan and I ran the Cinco de Mayo 5k Race at Swartz Creek Golf Course in Flint, Michigan. that was organized by Tri To Finish. Tri To Finish puts on events throughout the whole lower peninsula of Michigan and range from 5k's, 10k's, triathlons and duathlons. We had a great time at the Cinco de Mayo race. It was an awesome course with a few nice elevation climbs throughout and paved conditions. I especially enjoyed it because part of the course is included in the CRIM so it helped give me an idea of what to expect in August when we run that race. The starting line was well organized with the MC getting everyone pumped up for the start and the course well marked (always good!). 

This was a perfect race to get me back into the running game after taking the last year off during pregnancy and Aiden's birth. Ryan and I did really well too, so that's always awesome! Ryan got 2nd place in his age group and I got 3rd (out of 14) with time of 28:58, which I was happy about. I wish I had pushed harder at the end, but was reluctant that I would burn out since I hadn't been running as often as I had hoped and didn't know what expect with the hills. I'm really hoping to work on my pace and carve some off my time and maybe place even better by end of summer. 

Pre-race selfie!

Finish line

Awesome medals!

Age group finisher medals

After race with Aiden (Grandma and Poppa watched him). Sweet sombreros, huh? Race swag at it's best.

Overall, super fun race that was well organized. We really loved the medals, shirts and fun hats too (some runners dressed up and wore them - AWESOME). Also, had a mini-breakfast after race for runners to help re-fuel with food from a local mexican restaurant..bonus!

I'm super excited to say that I'll be racing in my first sprint triathlon EVER with Tri To Finish in September at Holly Recreation Area (which is gorgeous if you have never been there). I have a mixture of feelings of excitement and nervousness, but I'm confident that'll it'll be a great starter triathlon. I've started training for it and I'll be sure to update on that hopefully later this week or next week. :)