Tickled Pink

Now this title has nothing to do with the color, nor the focus of this blog, but expresses the sheer joy I experienced after meeting with friends who encouraged me to keep blogging regardless of less jogging. So after a very long pause, I'm back.

My morning was off to the perfect start having met friends Rachelle and Joel for coffee at the Oxbow Public Market in Napa. Ritual Coffee Roasters delivers! You won't be disappointed. My cappuccino was not only delicious, but also beautiful in presentation.

So I have recently moved. And more on that later, but much to my surprise and absolute delight my friends so kindly gifted me with two fantastic pieces from Mountain Hard Wear to celebrate my recent adventure as well as turning another year older. Awesome! The new threads that is, not the getting older bit. But well worth putting on a Christmas list this year are the Women's Sarafin Cardigan and the incredible/reversible Women's Flip Jacket. Perfection. And the colors are great too.

It was during my first half marathon and at mile nine when I felt like I was about to collapse and start crying. Just then I caught the eye of an enthusiastic bystander who yelled "keep going, honey. It's not how you feel, it's how you look!" Often so true and it was motivation to press on, but I have to say having tried on my cardigan and jacket for the tenth time now, it is possible to achieve both.

Thanks guys!

Kneed to run!

Enough already. I miss my running group, and I never thought I would say it, but I miss the agony of the 5:40 am buzz of the alarm clock only to be followed by the best part of my day. A run with good friends.

Unfortunately it took a little knee injury to clip my marathon wings, so I can safely say I won't be doing that again, but I was lucky enough to be randomly selected to run the San Francisco Nike Women's Half Marathon in October. I have set a new goal and it starts out slow. One mile at a time. Without pain. I plan to attempt my first mile on Monday. Wish me luck.

Flip-Flop with a Flowered Flare

I popped in to J. Crew to perform a quick scan for summer goodies. I swear everything in that store is cute right now. I picked up a pair of the Jelly flower Flip-Flops ($29.50) for a nice addition to a gift for mother's day. They are actually quite comfortable and are available in a variety of colors. (Some of which are not shown online) Suited for summer, spa day, vacation or poolside, these flops are sure to compliment your seasonal wardrobe and perfect pedicure.

MILLY Grazie

A friend and I recently enjoyed a late Saturday afternoon lunch at Rose's Cafe in San Francisco. They offer a killer breakfast menu but given the hour we opted for lunch paired with perfectly chilled sauvignon blanc.

Several mussels down and two glass of the Honig SB later, I found myself walking through the delightful doors of a boutique called Flaunt. The clothes are carefully selected from some of my favorite designers such as James Perse, Theory, Splendid, Milly and many more. My eyes were instantly drawn to this overpriced but now overused sundress by Milly. The jersey material makes it casual enough to wear with flip-flops but the color and style are fancy enough to tart this dress up with heels and take it out on the town. I love it!

It's dangerous to shop under the influence, but I feel it served me well in this case.

Wrap it up, I'll take it.

Since injuring my knee during this last marathon, I have been instructed to refrain from running for at least six weeks. I'm a little restless so I have taken on a new sport. Marathon shopping. It's a little dangerous but so far I feel great.

From the day it opened, there has always been a special place in my heart for a store in St Helena, Pearl. I know better, so I only allow myself to enter its doors when I am financially and mentally comfortable spending time and money here. It never fails.

Obviously I'm drawn to the color pink, and all of its relatives, so when I ventured in to this gem of a shop I instantly gravitated toward this amazing wrap by Matta. It's beautiful, feminine, coral in color, with dainty little tassels along the borders. Easily paired with a little black dress, and sure to tart up a wife beater (sorry) and a pair of jeans, this amazing piece screams VERSATILE as well as NECESSITY! It's lovely.

I have an appointment for a re-evaluation of my knee on May 14. At first I was praying the prognosis to be "all systems go", but now I have found peace with the possibility of needing to give the knee a little more rest and perhaps strengthen the shopping abilities.

Peep A Boo

I know very few adults who aren't spooked by these freakish little treats.

My father gets a kick out of such things, and rarely passes up an opportunity to celebrate a seasonal candy, so he hand delivered a batch of hot pink Easter PEEPS to my doorstep the other day. A marshmallow coated in sugar? Gilding the lily, in my opinion, but the colors are so alarmingly artificial and intriguing.

I learned that PEEPS are dusted in shades of yellow, pink, lavender, white, green, orange, blue, and a new chocolate brown. Each one contains 32 calories and is fat free. They come in Valentine, Halloween, Holiday, and Easter attire. And the fact that I can't seem to forget is that it would take over 70 million PEEPS chicks lined up beak-to-tail to reach from Los Angeles to New York City.

And The I-T Band Played On...

And I must say, it was hard to face the music.

I started to feel the fire in my knees during the last five miles of the marathon, only to be accompanied by the sensation of being knifed in my left calf muscle. Thinking this may just be good old fashioned fatigue having just run 21 miles, I pressed on through the pain and raced to the finish line.

My legs were sore and my knees were stiff, but three days after the marathon I felt like a champ. I thought I would ease in to my post-race routine by skipping the running and warming up with a core class my friends just started taking. 60 minutes of pure hell, perspiration, and abdominal punishment did not replace, but rather surpassed any discomfort previously noted, but I loved it and felt stronger than ever.

Now that one week had passed, I was excited to set out for a run with Gale this morning. We barely covered one mile before I felt intense pain along the outsides of both knees and under the knee caps. From Gale sharing her personal experience and consulting several articles, I am sure I have the ever so common I-T band running injury. Not to be ignored.

The recovery is most promising. The recommendations are rest, stretching, icing, massage, vitamin C, and as a last resort, anti-inflammatory medications. When running resumes it is important to run on even surfaces and to start slowly.

Now what? I'm scared to go back to that core class.

Pink, PR, and Pinot Noir

This last Sunday morning wasn't my usual "sleep in, lounge around, drink a pot of coffee and relax" kind of day, but rather a "get up at 5:00am, eat a banana, drink a cup of coffee and run the 31st annual Napa Valley Marathon" sort of Sunday.

Hoping to push through to a personal record (PR), I knew it would suit me best to wear something pink. From head to toe I wore a Vivid Pink Nike Visor , my sister surprised me with an Asics Core Long Sleeve running shirt in fuschia, I ran in my favorite Smartwool Adrenaline Light Micro socks in Orchid, then treated myself to a pedicure with La-Paz-Itively Hot pink varnish by OPI, as it is more than likely I will only have all of my toenails for another month due to continuous pounding they endure during a 26.2 mile run. Delightful.

Between the few measly hours I was able to sleep, I woke up to the sound of rain that wasn't letting up. I stumbled out of bed at 5:00am, dressed for the occasion, ate a little snack, threw on a trash bag to keep me as dry as possible before the race, and was out the door.

My good friend drove me to the start as I nervously, single-handedly carried on continuous inane banter. Looking for Sherry while hiding under my Glad Bag, I listened to one lady crack on about how many more marathons she was running this year and how the last one would be "slow, like four hours or less. Just for fun..." While others were performing high kicks and slamming power gels. One man wasn't wearing shoes, and another man was wearing briefs, tube socks and rubber sandals. Ugh, runners. So weird. Anyway, with only minutes to spare I found Sherry and before we knew it we were clipping away at mile one.

Despite the fact that the morning was cold, somewhat windy, and certainly wet, I was able to break my PR by 17 minutes! If Sherry and I hadn't been able to lie to each other during those last 8 miles, saying how great we felt and how fun it was, I may not have had the spirit to continue, but deception at its best kicked me all the way to the finish line.

Best part of the race? Our amazing support team. Our friends and families covered the entire distance, cheering us on from mile to mile in the rain. Even my 7 month old nephew toughed it out in those conditions. You're the best George!!

After slamming a cheese burger and sweet potato fries from Taylor's I took a short break before dipping in to a celebratory glass of Schramsberg Brut Rose. Hours later I was more than making up for the calories burned, thanks to my mother and sister who slaved away at the world's best Mac and Cheese from the Jimtown Store cookbook. And as determined prior to all of this, we had one of my favorite Pinot Noirs, Williams Selyem 2006 Rochioli Riverblock Vineyard. Oh my God, it was heaven.

Rare Pink Dolphin

WHAT!?

My focus has barely shifted since my friend Michelle sent me this link about the Rare Pink Dolphin. It's my favorite color of pink and this dolphin really does exist. (almost as astonishing as the dolphin shorts worn by George Michael in the Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go video)

The mammal was first sited in Lake Calcasieu, an inland saltwater estuary, north of the Gulf of Mexico in southwestern USA. It has been described as "entirely pink from tip to tail and has reddish eyes indicating it's albinism. The skin appears smooth, glossy pink without flaws."

According to Captain Rue, the man who has had many sightings of the dolphin, the mammal appears to be very healthy and as the years have passed, the dolphin has certainly grown and matured but remains close to it's mother and the others in the pod. Impressively family oriented. I like it.

That's really all I know, but I intend to keep up with any new information anyone can give me regarding this pink magic.

Literally & Figuratively Under The Weather

My computer and I both came down with nasty viruses last Monday. The biggest problem? I had only a few days to get well and prepare to run 26.2 miles in what was predicted to be a windy and rainy day for the 31st annual Napa Valley Marathon. On Friday I was still unable to surf the web, hoping to discover a drastic change in the forecast, and felt it was just as unlikely I would make a full recovery.

I did everything I possibly could to reverse the situation. Drank gallons of water, slept every spare moment I had, popped vitamin C and zinc, and prayed to God I would be able to celebrate all of my dedication and hours of training by running the race.

Along came Sunday and feeling much better than I expected, Sherry and I rocked it! We ran through wind, rain, and a bit of pain, and mucho thanks to our awesome friends and family we were cheered on from start to finish.

Now I must get my computer back to health so I can tell you more about the marathon weekend! To be continued...

How To Reign In The Rain

With six days left until the marathon, I have been checking the weather forecast every hour in hopes that it will magically say something different. All reports suggest steady showers with highs in the 60's and lows in the 30's. I think above all other concerns of a possible running injury, missing a long run, or not finding something pink to wear, this was my biggest fear of all. Rain on race day.

Having consulted as many articles as I can muster up the interest to read, I gathered some helpful tips for successfully running in the rain. It is best said that failing to plan is planning to fail, so being prepared to run in a downpour is the most important consideration.

1. Wear a trash bag over your clothes while you wait for the race to start. Stay as warm and dry as possible.

2. Don't overdo it with extra layers. Your body will become overheated as you warm up.

3. Wear running attire made with wicking fabric. Not cotton. A waterproof cap is good idea to keep the rain out of your eyes.

3. Don't start out the race too fast. It is tempting to speed up when you are cold, but remember to pace yourself.

4. If possible, have dry clothes at the finish to change in to as soon as possible.

5. And of course try to have fun. You have worked hard in preparation for this day

There is still a chance that the weather forecast will miraculously change. So keep your fingers crossed for me!

BYOB

The March/April issue of Women's Running features an awesome online service that allows you to build your own bar. YouBar was created by a mother and her marathoner son, putting a healthy spin on customizing your own nutritional energy snack. With nearly 50 different ingredients such as peanuts, goji berries, and almond butter, you can now tailor a bar to your own tastes that also meets your dietary needs. The website is easy to use, and while you are building your masterpiece a complete nutritional facts list appears in the upper right corner and quickly crunches the numbers as you customize your creation. The coolest part? You get to name your bar. I'm still working on that. Clairathon bar? Last call bar? Bar belle? The options are endless. Check it out!

Runner's Digest

I have rather carefully followed The Rookie Marathon Training Plan, so now with one week left before the big day, I have researched several different articles so I can focus on what and what not to eat. I learned that for shorter runs a cup of coffee will more than suffice, and has even proven to result in faster times as well as increase the body's ability to produce energy while burning fuel. And whether it's pasta and meat sauce the night before a marathon, or a slice of toast with peanut butter the morning of a 10-miler, the research indicates that carbohydrates with a side of protein is most beneficial in preparing for longer runs.

Some foods that are commonly listed specifically to fuel peak performance for runners include salmon, sweet potatoes, eggs, almonds, whole grain cereals/breads/pasta, chicken, black beans, mixed salad greens, low fat yogurt, mixed berries, oranges and dark chocolate.

And who doesn't need a treat every now and then? Might I suggest the new Haagen-Dazs Reserve flavor, Fleur de Sel Caramel? Caramels coated in chocolate with accents of french sea salt are submerged in a vanilla and caramel base. It is to die for! And a good reason to run.

This Run's In The Bag

I generally get one of two reactions to my decision to run the Napa Valley Marathon.

1. From what are you running? Get your head checked.

2. Awesome. That is fantastic. Best of luck!

So I cannot express how excited I was to receive this sassy tote from one of my more supportive and most thoughtful patients at work, as a pre-congratulatory reward. The bag comes from Toss Designs, one of my favorite stores in town. And while I would gladly walk away with anything and everything from this shop, you cannot go wrong in finding the perfect gift for someone else here. Toss Designs offers a variety of products such as travel bags, tennis covers, stationary, barware, pet carriers, placemats, jewelry, clothes and shoes, to name a few. Their styles, patterns, materials, and designs are so much fun. Check it out.

Something to Celebrate

Last Sunday I ran the longest run my marathon training requires. My running mate, Sherry, joined me to run 21 of the 26.2 miles we will endure on March 1st for the 31st Annual Napa Valley Marathon. The most difficult running homework is now behind us. Truly something to celebrate.

Through many practice runs and a little experimentation, I have found the winning list of necessities, guaranteed to make running 26.2 miles as enjoyable as pounding the pavement for four and a half hours could possibly be.

1. Saucony Pro Grid Ride running shoes

2. SmartWool Adrenaline Light Micro Crew socks

3. CW-X Stabilyx running tights

4. Gatorade G2 Ice Punch (50% less calories and just as kicked up as original Gatorade)

5. Clif Bar Shot Blocks Black Cherry flavor

6. Bananas every 6 miles or so

7. Water

8. Sherry Hill. She is someone with whom you want to be "stuck" if you are going to be running for hours! Funny, energetic, motivating, genuine, and still looks like she just stepped out of a salon having just knocked out 21 miles.

So these are a few of my favorite things. I have yet to determine the perfect jogging bra and top. There is still time to shop with only 16 days left in the final countdown!

Truly Worth Test Driving

I'm not talking pistons, horsepower, and ball-bearings, but rather Pinot Noir. Full bodied, balanced, and in my opinion, more well structured than the automobile. Testarossa Vineyards makes some exquisite wines. Most recently I enjoyed an amazing bottle of their 2006 Gary's Vineyard Pinot Noir. Intense berry flavors with subtle notes of black pepper accompany a beautiful deep red color. Ridiculously delicious!

'Til Death Do Us Part

If you are afraid of commitment, this is not the lipstick for you. Chanel cosmetics have always played a leading role in my sister's and my Christmas stockings. Unable to live without the lip liner in nude, I added an ultra wear lip colour to the list this year. I have it in Pink Diamond, but all of the shades are beautiful. This dual-ended delight offers a long lasting fluid lip color on one end, then flip it around to seal the deal with a high shine, clear and glossy finish. It lasts forever!

Armoured And Dangerous

It's raining, it's pouring, and here I am shopping. I love waking up to the sound of heavy rain, knowing that I don't have to get out of bed for any good reason other than simple desire. So with coffee in hand, propped up with pillows, I find myself browsing some of my favorite websites in case I stumble upon something I cannot resist.

I'm nervous. The marathon is only weeks away and I still haven't answered a most important inquiry. What am I going to wear? Something pink, for sure. But what?

I have always been a fan of Under Armour. The clothes always fit, the fabric is fab, and the colors are fun. I love that Under Armour supports breast cancer awareness and research. For each item purchased throughout the Power in Pink promotion, $2.00 will be donated to breast cancer charities. So this was an easy sale. The Power in Pink Zone Longsleeve should find it's way to my doorstep any day now.

The rain just stopped and so must the shopping. For now.

CW-X marks the spot

I used to believe that shin splints were the runner's equivalent to medicine's chronic fatigue syndrome. That is, it doesn't exist. You're tired. And your shins hurt because they don't move enough. Well I have changed my tune, on at least one count. I felt the twinge coming from below my knee during my last 15 mile run, and after consulting several running books and a live physical therapist, I am convinced that shin splints are real.

I have been taking the necessary steps, or rather lack thereof, by resting, icing, and have just changed running shoes and truly feel I am on the mend.

So I was very much intrigued by a review in Runner's World rating their top favorite running tights. CW-X was at the top of the list with something I knew I had to have. The Stabilyx Tights in black and gray. They have a most intricate web design which actually provides extra core support, stabilizes the knee joint (which is really where it hurts right now), improves movement efficiency, and reduces fatigue. And I am inclined to believe just about anything if it is written well, so I am now the new proud owner of a pair.

Aside from the most humbling experience of trying to squeeze into them, and I followed the size chart, I can already tell that these tights will make running more enjoyable.

We Can Do It

My marathon training plan had tapered down to a mere 15 miles this last weekend, and I was wondering where on earth I would find the drive and energy to knock this one out. With less than four weeks until showtime, I must admit that I am tired.

My running group rocks. This year I happen to be the only one training for the marathon, but I haven't run a single long run solo. The ladies have changed their schedules, e-mailed encouraging words, and staggered start times to make sure that someone is running with me the entire distance. I cannot believe how awesome these women are.

I have had some difficulty navigating through a most useful website, Mapmyrun.com, and while I can't imagine a running life without it, I am still having to consult my fellow runner, Kathy, to help me out. She graduated from Duke so I figure she can do anything. Sure enough, she whizzed through the program and provided us with a beautiful 15 mile run.

We tried something new, the PowerBar Gel Blasts in cola flavor. They taste like the good old gummy coke bottle candies I used to love as a child, and they pack a pretty nice little energy punch. I love them!

So thanks to my running mates, I completed my training assignment feeling stronger than I had imagined.

Hard Core

I have found that Runner's World has the most thorough and helpful online site. Throughout my preparation to run the Napa Valley Marathon, I have become hooked on the heading Training. (And I must admit that while it's not nearly as interesting, I have more recently been consulting the heading Motivation.) So I found a great article called FAST ABS.

I have been intermittently faithful to some kind of powder puff routine of basic crunches, but as the article criticises, one really needs to work the deep core muscles to truly make a difference and provide the stability and strength that running mile after mile requires. The benefits not only lend themselves to speed, endurance, and hill work, but also prevent common injuries involving the knees, lower back, and hamstrings.

There is a detailed description and drawing of each exercise and the recommendation is that this 15 minute workout be done right before or after running, three times a week. It seems that is a minimal commitment that could produce monumental reward. I am starting today.

And to celebrate my efforts, I am going to exercise my baking skills and try a Strawberry Rose Buttercream cupcake recipe from my friend Gale. They sound delicious and they're pink.

Twisted Sister

My sister is older, wiser, taller, more focused, and did I mention wiser? Well one day she had a colossal lapse in judgement and calmly asked if I wanted to run the 2007 Los Angeles Marathon with her. This would have made sense had either of us been runners.

I had been jogging somewhere between two to four miles on a somewhat regular basis over the past several months, but my sister was more of a hiker, a fast walker, a swimmer, and a shopper.

As the younger sibling I rarely hesitate to do what my big sister tells me to do, so that was it. Still in shock and full of fear, I signed up for the marathon.

My sister joined a group called the LA Leggers , a non-profit, volunteer-run organization that offers members training and an educational program that enables individuals to attain their own personal goals in running half and full marathons. I was most impressed.

We trained for months and ran our longest run together during the Christmas holiday, and before we knew it that weekend was upon us. The temperature was uncomfortably warm, somewhere in the 80's. The race started later than usual, the sun was out, the course was hilly, and the crowds were thick. It was more difficult than I expected and I repeatedly chanted "don't ever do this again" in my head.

So now as I am training for another marathon I occasionally ask myself why on earth I am doing this. Then I remember where I got my crazy. My sister. She never ceases to amaze me. And while her running wings have temporarily been clipped due to giving birth to a beautiful baby boy, I can't wait to run the next race with her.

With one month left in my marathon training, I am dedicating all of this hard work to my sister. I would have never accomplished this without her.

A Pinot by any other name...

Upon completion of my 19 mile run on Saturday, I headed for St. Helena Cyclery, the closest source of Clifbar's Clif Shot recovery drink. Much to my dismay they were closed! So disappointing. I have yet to try this product, and while I favor vanilla vs chocolate, I am eager to sample both. My other local supplier, the Napa Running Company is a good 20 minutes away. Too far in a time of need. So I skipped across the street and consulted another local home to the "recovery drink", the St. Helena Wine Center. I purchased a bottle of Flowers Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2007 as my own little reward for the three and a half hour run under my belt.

My father is an amazing cook, and lucky for me, my parents live close by. He has lately been inspired by a french cookbook, The Complete Robuchon, by Joel Robuchon. All I heard from the recipe was chicken and creme fraiche and I was sold! It was amazing, and well paired with Pinot.

Tasting notes include aromas of cherry, plum, raspberry, violet, pepper, and strawberry. It's all very nice, and then they throw in something absurd but surely accurate, like black fruits, cola and leather... whatever. I very much enjoyed the wine. It is delicate but deliberate. I would almost run 19 miles for it again.


"To create a little flower is the labor of ages." - Blake, William

Oops, I did it again.

I can't say this is the first time I haven't paid attention, but it could be in the top three of paying the price.

Last weekend I barely moved through 17.5 miles of training that my Rookie Marathon Training Plan required. Knowing that the following weekend would lend me a break in mileage, I consulted the schedule to see if it suggested 14 or 15 miles, I couldn't recall. As I collaborated with my marathon partner to determine the course, it turns out I was off by one week and THIS was the weekend I needed to run an "Easy 17-18 miles." Ugh.

I suited up with my favorite running shoes, the Progrid Ride by Saucony. Surprisingly inexpensive, this is the best, most comfortable shoe I have ever owned. I tried something new, the G2 Ice Punch by Gatorade and loved it. It packs the same powerful punch of original Gatorade with fewer calories. One of our good friends agreed to follow us along the run and supply us with the necessary water and bananas for fuel.

So Sherry and I met in Calistoga, somewhere close to where the marathon starts, and ran along the Silverado trail for 19 miles which took us all the way to Yountville. It was brutal but beautiful. The mustard is in full bloom, the vineyards are all pruned, and the weather was a kind 55 degrees. We made it!

Steel my vote

Recent studies have shown that many plastic, Nalgene, Lexan and other popular water bottles may be leaching toxins that are linked to breast cancer and reproductive mutations. I'll leave that to the scientists to determine, but in the meantime I am playing it safe and chic with the Klean Kanteen. The stainless steel is 100% non-leaching and toxin free, making it a healthy alternative to plastic or lined metal containers. I was delighted to find one in pale pink in this year's Christmas stocking. The bottle comes in six colors as well as stainless steel.

Mix it up

The Rookie Marathon Training Plan I am following delegates Mondays as cross training days. The idea is to mix it up for one day a week and the suggestions include "walking, biking, swimming, and any other activity that does not involve running." So I thought about it and I came up with baking! Does that count? Probably not.

Over the years my sister has supported and even encouraged my obsession with the color pink by gifting me with many of the fabulous, pink kitchenAid appliances. They make cooking or baking an absolute delight.

So I assembled my pink standing mixer and decided to whip up some cupcakes, another obsession, to celebrate a birthday at work. Running out of time instead of energy, for once, I must admit I cheated and used the Betty Crocker Super Moist dark chocolate cake mix. However, I did take the time to find an amazing recipe for a bittersweet chocolate frosting from the Epicurious website. It is unbelievably delicious. I would make it again and again. For a splash of color I topped each cupcake with a fresh raspberry. People cannot stop raving about them.

While it was a nice and necessary diversion from the schedule, it only took a couple of cupcakes to convince me to get back to running.

What are friends for?

Friends are for getting you up and out of bed, out the door and ready to run by 6:30 a.m. on a cold Saturday morning.

I am nearing the end of week eleven of The Rookie Marathon Training Plan, which today calls for an "Easy 17-18 miles." Sure. Just take it easy while you repeatedly pound pavement for three hours. Most enjoyable. I was about to throw in the towel when two of my running friends joined me and propelled me through most of these miserable miles. Thank-you Missy, I now call Missy Mitochondria (you have never seen anyone pull power out of a hat like this fiery Italiana) and thank-you Gale, a.k.a. Gale Force Wind (ridiculously strong, fast, and quietly persuasive).

Running 17.5 miles does not feel good. I belted up with Strawberry Gatorade which I bought because I liked the color, and have remained faithful to the black cherry Clif Bar shot bloks. So we set out in about 39 degree weather and ran through forests, vineyards, and neighborhoods for about three hours, until my vision was blurred, my feet were numb, my patience had thinned, and 17.5 miles were finally behind me!

The reward? I made myself a breakfast sandwich with the world's best english muffin from The Model Bakery, topped with egg and prosciutto. Delightful.

Just don't do it

I'm a sucker for accessories, but fool me once...

I recently subscribed to a new magazine, Women's Running. I love it. The website is also helpful and offers articles on nutrition and fitness, tips on how to find the best running shoe for you, an online store with a great (well, mostly great) variety of products, and a monthly e-newsletter.

I'm in the market for a hair band that actually stays in place and keeps loose ends and at least a portion of the sweat out of my eyes. Nike makes some very attractive and colorful bands that were featured in the last issue. So of course I had to have them. The lady modeling them looks so fit, so happy, her hair is perfectly in place, yet she looks so sporty. Sign me up. Right?

Well I made the purchase and when the package arrived I couldn't get to the gym fast enough to sport my new look. I chose a pink and orange striped band and had it perfectly in place. I hopped on the treadmill with a new confidence, thinking this was going to be best looking run I had taken in a while. I don't think I even made it to 30 seconds when this thing shot off the back of my head and landed on the shoulder of a less optimistic gym member who was taking his shoulder presses a little too seriously. How embarrassing! I apologized, feeling like a prize idiot, then placed the band just one more time to make sure. Yeah, no. Not happening. These hair pieces DON'T WORK. Save yourself the six dollars, time, and humiliation. I'll let you know when I land on something legit.

Oh baby!

I have missed running with, or rather behind my speedy friend Laurence, who has taken a pregnancy leave of absence from my running group. So I was most excited to join my friends in throwing her a baby shower at a beautiful local and favorite spot, Stony Hill Vineyard. Their chardonnay is exceptional and the views are spectacular.

The ladies wisely decided to join forces and rather than leave it to the individual's better or less fortunate taste, we presented her with a gift we knew she would love and use. The BOB jogging stroller . The baby jogger is really quite sharp looking. It comes in a variety of colors and several different styles to accommodate specific needs and uses, it only weighs 22 lbs, and claims to turn on a dime. I highly recommend it.

I learned of a new, creepy wives tale. To determine the sex of the baby Laurence had to rip out a strand of her hair, tie it around her wedding band, and hold it approximately three inches from her belly. If the ring moves hip to hip (side to side) it's a boy. If it moves head to toe (up and down) it's a girl. Well it kind of moved in circles and I don't really know what that means, but I DO know that as soon as they announced the baby shower games were starting, I took one look at the BOB stroller and called shotgun.

Training Day

I am in week ten of my marathon training. My running homework for yesterday was to cover, and I quote, an "Easy 15-16 miles." Is that possible? This is having put in 90 minutes of cross training one day, two days of 8 miles of speed or hill work, and another "easy 5 miles" day. I am following The Rookie Marathon Training Plan and all I can think is, What the hell plan are the seasoned runners consulting?

My friends and I chose a beautiful but hilly and strenuous run up an old and winding road out to Lake Hennessy. The course is an all-time favorite of my sister's and mine, though we first experienced it in 28-degree weather. I suited up with the necessary fuel belt. I am loving the Helium 2 pink fuel belt. It is really comfortable and what is more important than comfort is that it's ridiculously cute. I tried the black cherry Clif shot bloks at mile 8 and they are really quite good.

So the weather was perfect. And as far as the challenge, I have discovered the best way to tackle the steep hills is to imagine my rear end in a bikini. Truly a motivation for pushing through the pain.

And with every long run I do, something special awaits completion. My friend and I celebrated her birthday at Bistro Jeanty- one of my favorite local restaurants. We kicked off the celebration with a glass of Allimant Laugner Brut Rose, which was nothing spectacular but refreshing and pink. I particularly love their appetizers so we shared the duck foie gras pate, some mussels steamed in red wine, frites, a butter lettuce salad, and calamari, along with a bottle of Andre Vatan Sancerre. It was a delightful lunch that came to a close with a lemon meringue tart the size of my head, served with an over-the-top orange candied sauce. An unseasonably warm day for January, we spent about trois heures out on the patio. A perfect afternoon.

Most women would take the opportunity of running 16 miles to get ahead in terms of caloric intake versus burn. I, however, chose to break even.

Whenever I prepare to run an official race I ask myself two very important questions. What am I going to wear? What will I drink to celebrate this accomplishment?

I am currently training for the 31st annual Napa Valley Marathon. I cannot complain. I live here, and as far as beautiful surroundings in which to train, I feel that competition has already been won.

This year I am going for a PR (I'm about an hour and a half from qualifying for Boston). I am thinking my personal record will most likely happen if I'm wearing something pink. Actually I have never run a race without it. While I am in love with the Nike Dri-FIT seamless running shirt in raspberry, I'm open to looking for something new.

As my liquid light at the end of this tortuous tunnel, I'll be enjoying a 2006 Williams Selyem Rochioli Riverblock Vineyard Pinot Noir to accompany my celebratory carbo extravaganza of the world's best mac and cheese, which is really why I run.

Wish me luck.