Welcome to everyone stopping by for the March into Spring Giveaway Hop! I hope you’ll stick around and become a part of the fun here, but if you are in a hurry, hop on down to the bottom of the post for entry instructions to win an Amazon gift card and links to 20+ other awesome giveaways!
This past weekend kicked off my spring racing season, but that was far from the only thing going on! I feel like I was away from home from Thursday morning until Sunday afternoon, despite not actually traveling anywhere. And I hadn’t planned quite such a drastic taper (since I’d hardly trained), but apparently that worked for me.
But, I’m getting ahead of myself LOL.
Thursday Shoo and I went on a field trip to Pamplin Historical Park. Despite only being a couple of hours away, I had never been there and was excited to check it out. I was less excited that we had to be at Shoo’s school at 6:30am! Anyways, it focuses on Civil War history and I really enjoyed the visit. I’d actually like to go back again as I feel like there was so much else to see.
Returning from the field trip, we had to rush to Shoo’s soccer practice, which meant no time for dinner. I’d packed him a second PB&J (yes, he had one for lunch and one for dinner), but I couldn’t stomach a second one. I decided I deserved a reward for being on the go from 6:30am-7:15pm and bought myself a super yummy salad from Sweetgreen. I swear, if they weren’t so expensive, I’d buy one every time Shoo has practice.
Friday was a teensy bit calmer – I just had to go to the race expo and then a tour of the Capitol. NBD. OK, kind of really a big deal. The expo trip was uneventful, other than running into a ton of friends all over including my blogging friend, Andrea (who I totally snagged this picture from.)
Then it was time to grab Beer Geek and hit the metro over to our tour. See, a few days ago, I found out that I’d won the lottery for a Capitol tour from Rock N Roll and Congressman Ryun.
(If you don’t know Ryun, he was a crazy fast runner – hit a 4 minute mile in high school and represented the US in 3 different Olympics. I’m sure he also accomplished things while in the House of Representatives, but I don’t talk politics here, so you’ll have to look that up yourself.) Anyways, he and his wife treated a small group of us to the kind of tour you can only go on with a Congressman. We were on the floor of the Chamber of the House of Representatives, got to go on the Speaker’s balcony overlooking the Mall, and spent a few minutes in the Capitol Chapel. Definitely one of the cooler things I’ve ever done in DC!
By this point, I’d spent much of Friday on my feet and was ready to wind down. Unfortunately, my friend’s flight got delayed and it was after midnight when I picked her up. My 1am bedtime did make the 4am alarm any easier! But we got up and got ready and headed to RFK to park before the race.
Thank goodness for GPS because in my sleep deprived state, I took a wrong exit and we got to take the scenic tour of DC on the way to the parking lot. Luckily, once we were parked, the walk and metro ride were a breeze and we had plenty of time at the start line to chill. (Or actually get a bit chilly – I ended up keeping my denim throwaway shirt on for the entire first mile.)
I’m going to recap the race later, but I will tell you that it was my fastest half in over a year and I felt great the entire time. Apparently muscle memory from 46 previous half marathons (and 5 marathons) will get you through what your training lacked. And I even ran up the entire Calvert hill. I’ve NEVER done that before.
After the race, I had a lovely lunch at the VIP tent while I waited for my friend. I’ve often debated buying VIP and always decided no, but I really enjoyed it this year. Even without going to the pre-race part, it was worth it. The parking was SOOO close to the finish, the food was great, and the portapotties were barely used.
As soon as I got home, it was time to head south for a soccer tournament. Our team won the first game and lost the second, but ended in the semifinals, which meant another morning game. By the time we got home at 9pm, I’d been on the go for almost 17 hours. I was wiped!
Sunday we had to get up early and we’d lost that hour, so I was still a tired puppy. Shoo and I dragged ourselves to the game, where he sat on the sidelines for most of the game, due to ankle pain. (He’s obviously smarter than most runners because he asked to be a sub rather than a starter because his ankle was hurting. Good to know that one of us listens to our body…) Unfortunately, his team lost so that was the end of the tournament for us. (Umm, ok, maybe I was not unhappy to get home instead of having to spend more hours down there…)
The rest of the weekend just involved me trying to catch on laundry and straighten the house back up. Funny how 4 days of “go go go” can put you behind.
Now I have a busy week ahead of me, including a visit to an event at the White House! Why yes, March has been a good month so far. Thanks for asking.
Don’t forget to join us for Tuesdays on the Run! The topic this week is “The hardest part of running is…” We talked about the best things last week, now tell us about the hardest/worst parts.
And now for the giveaway! I had planned to reach out to one of the awesome companies I’ve worked with in the past and get you all something good, but life has been busy and I completely forgot. Oops.
So, instead, I’m giving away a $25 Amazon gift card! Not so bad, right?
Giveaway runs between March 14th and through midnight on March 25th. You must be 18 or older to enter, and have a valid email address. Winner will be notified via the email provided. Winner has 48 hours to respond, if no response winner forfeits winnings and another winner may be chosen. Void where prohibited by law.
I’m also linking up with HoHo and Tricia for Weekly Wrap.
Congrats on a great race-can’t wait for the recap!! I haven’t done a half marathon in awhile, hoping to change that later on this year!!
Stacey recently posted…Weekly Sweat Report 3/7-3/13
i would use the gift card to buy a new pair of running shorts!
Kimberly G recently posted…#MusicMonday – 30 Seconds to Mars Edition
I am going on my first (and quick) racecation next weekend at the Dallas RNR! Great Giveaway! I would probably put the money towards a new pair of shoes 🙂
lindsey recently posted…a few of my favorite things | Giveaway Hop
I would like to buy an essential oil kit.
Congrats on a great race, and kudos for running up all of Calvert Hill. That hill is no joke. Sorry that I missed you Saturday morning. We’ll have to be sure to meet up at the next race.
As for what I’d buy on Amazon, little man seems to need something new every day so I’d put the gift card towards getting something for him. Maybe a new toy.
Kathryn @ Dancing to Running recently posted…ZOOMA Annapolis Half Marathon Training Log – Week 6
I would put the gift card toward new running shoes (love how amazon sells running shoes!)
I’d love to buy new books or some chocolate!Thanks for the giveaway 🙂
With some spring marathons on the horizon I could use some race fuel…GU!
I’m saving amazing gift cards for an air purifier for our home.
I have a bunch of books that I am interested in purchasing and I would love to put this towards them.
I would get my son a nice birthday gift that he has been wanting! Thanks for a fun giveaway,
I’d buy myself some books
I need a new running belt so probably that.
I’d use it toward a Fitbit – time to move more and shed a few pounds!
I always love reading your stories! Congrats on the PR – that is an awesome way to kick off the season… and that beautiful pink and blue sky looks very inspiring. Hope you have a wonderful week…
Elle recently posted…Govivo Reflective Arm Bands Review
I would like to buy a new accent lamp for our living room.
I just bought a pair of my shoes on Amazon, at a nice discount. After that, my wishlist is filled with books.
Sounds like such a busy weekend. I was on vacation last weekend so I had to catch up on laundry and cleaning when I got back. Not gonna lie, some of the cleaning didn’t get done until this weekend.
Lesley recently posted…Monday Musings 3/14
I would put it towards some new running shoes.
I had serious FOMO Saturday looked like such a fun time!
Deborah @ Confessions of a mother runner recently posted…Asparagus Avocado Soup
I would buy an e book on my kindle 🙂
Edye recently posted…Five Things Survey
I would like to buy some new sandals.
I’d love to buy running gear, of course!
Wendy @ Wholistic Woman recently posted…Spring Wardrobe Essentials
I love DC!! Haven’t been there in a long time, but it is such a great place for the whole family to visit. Looks like you had a blast! 🙂
Looks like you had a great time!
Wendy @ Wholistic Woman recently posted…It’s a Giveaway Hop! Win Plan to Eat!
I would like to buy a gift for my grandson that we are expecting in June. I can hardly wait, he is my first grandchild.
I would buy books
That tour sounds awesome! I can’t wait to hear more about the half!
Nicole @ Fitful Focus recently posted…Chipotle Chicken Salad Sandwich {paleo, no-mayo, gluten free}
How great you met up with Andrea! I’m still so bummed I couldn’t get myself to RnRDC. One of these years.
Marcia recently posted…Welcome Spring with this Veggie & Egg Strata
I would buy a new pillow.
Thanks.
Tell me what you’d like to buy!
probably a dvd thank so much
a mattress topper
I’d get some yoga gear.
I would buy Starbucks k-cups!
shoes or a watch.
Darlene recently posted…Monday Running Update
I would like to buy coffee!
Thanks for the chance to win!
wildorchid985 at gmail dot com
I would buy some Kindle books or maybe a Blu-ray movie.
A gift for my wife! 😉
The tour of the Capitol sounds amazing – what a great opportunity! Great to hear your race season got off to a good start!
Michelle @ Running with Attitude recently posted…RtR Training Week 1
I would like to buy a pair of sneakers
Oh goodness, what would I get on Amazon…probably a new book!
I would get new pillows for my bed.
I have been into Designer Whey protein powder for post-run recovery! Strawberry and chocolate flavors depending on the mood.
my son needs shoes. I will buy those
I’m glad to hear you had a fantastic race this weekend! I would purchase a new pair of shoes 😉
love to get a couple new movies.
If I won, I would use the gift card towards a Mother’s Day gift for my mom 🙂
I’d like to get some organic treats for the Easter holiday!
I’d buy some new tongs for my kitchen. Mine are getting raggedy!
Also, I totally believe muscle memory can get you through a half and keep you feeling strong. Sometimes these days, the races I train for least are my strongest ones!
Ali @ Hit the Ground Running recently posted…This Week in Running
Maybe some socks!
I would like to buy canning supplies.
Its that mom/athlete shuffling that makes mom even more wonder women like. It’s awesome you were able to squeeze a half in between field trips and soccer games. Congrats on what sounds was a great race!
Thanks for sharing your interesting trip with us. All the best with your White House visit.
I’d like to buy my BF this book she’s been wanting -> The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo.
Besos, Sarah
Journeys of The Zoo
Sarah at Journeys of The Zoo recently posted…This is What Happens at a Paw Patrol Show in Mexico #travel
I would buy some cute sandals for spring. Congrats!
I would like to buy either computer parts or books, depending on the mood I am in. Thanks for the chance!
I would buy myself some sweet DVD’s.
I would buy something from my wish list probably a new purse
I would buy some summer pants for myself once.
I would use this amazon GC to purchase some kitchen containers for freezer cooking!
Great giveaway and great job on your half! I would love to get some new running socks with that Amazon card 🙂 Thanks for the chance!
I’d like to buy a puzzle that I have on my wishlist.
I’m looking forward to your race recap and hearing how you ran so fast on little training. God knows I’m going to have to dig deep for Big Sur!
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home recently posted…Big Sur Marathon Training Week 6
I’d love to buy a new pair of headphones for running! The ones I’m using now are starting to fall apart!
I’d put it towards running shoes!
I would buy some books.
This is so awesome. I would use this to buy a new college book that I need for Summer. This would be so helpful!
I would buy hair products and a phone case
I would like to buy a Just Dance Wii game! Thank you for the chance to win!
I’d get my daughter a new toy. Thanks so much for the chance!
I would buy breastfeeding supplies. Thanks!
I would like to buy some books.
I’d buy my son some new shoes
I would like to get new snappy tunes for my workouts.
thank you
I’d buy books for my kids.
I’m thinking of buying some clothes for my toddler. 🙂
Not gonna lie…I’d really like a USB Super Nintendo controller! 😛
Farrah recently posted…Isolator Fitness Meal Prep Bags
I really need a new keyboard for my tablet! It would make it so much easier to type on it! God bless everyone!
I’d like to buy a Garmin Vivofit 2.
my fave protein powder
How neat?! My mom’s maiden name is Pamplin and we’ve always wanted to take her to the Pamplin park ever since we found out about it. So cool to read about you going there. 🙂
We have two birthdays coming up in the family … so I should say that it would go towards a birthday present. But to be honest, it’d probably end up going towards running gear.
I have always wondered about purchasing this VIP tickets for after a race, but always decide not to because of the cost. Looks pretty awesome though! I would by a new running book!
Toni recently posted…When it all comes together
I’d like to put the money toward a new pair of shoes.
How cool you won the Capitol tour! And this week you get to go to the White House? Awesome. I had one of those go, go, go weekends (weeks actually) and have still not recovered. Congratulations on having a great race. That sunrise picture is beautiful. A DC run is on my bucket list. I would probably buy a case of GU if I won the Amazon gift card. Thanks for linking with us Erika!
HoHo Runs recently posted…Montgomery Half (WW # 32)
I’d buy books.
I would use it to help purchase a FitBit. I have wanted one for awhile. Thanks for the giveaway!
I would love to buy my mom a gift for her upcoming birthday!
I would save it to use towards a new Harley Davidson ring
I’d buy books!
I’d get some swimming gears for my kids
I’d probably get some new running shorts for spring. It’s already heating up down here.
EB @ Running on E recently posted…Training Recap: Week of 3/7-3/13
I need a new spirializer!
I would love to buy craft supplies.
I would buy a new computer mouse
I would put towards Anne of Green Gable DVD set…lol, don’t laugh
WOWSER I am exhausted just reading this!!
Your week was pretty amazing!
Wow you ran up the entire hill….supper impressive!!
I hope you had a great time at the White House…so awesome!!!
ohhh I would buy some swimming gear
Tamieka recently posted…Weekly Wrap
I’m saving up for a new car seat!
demureprincess7(at)gmail(dot)com
I’d like to buy some new music to listen to!
I’m just tired reading about all you did! Congrats on a good half with little sleep.
And nothing wrong with an Amazon card. 🙂
Judy @ Chocolaterunsjudy recently posted…Worst thing about running is . . .
I would like to get some new music and books.
I would like to buy a movie.
I’d love to buy myself a new pair of gardening gloves!
Yeah! So excited spring is getting so close! Although I think we get snow tomorrow. 🙂 I would love to buy some milkweed seeds to plant for the Monarchs this spring!
I would use the gift card to buy a running belt to hold my phone and water.
I would get some books for my grandsons
I’d like to say I would buy something exercise related, but in truth I would use it to purchase college textbooks for my children.
I would like to buy books for my kids.
Congrats on winning the capital tour! Hmmm I would probably buy sushi hahaha.
Lara recently posted…35 Dietitian Approved Desserts
I would buy a birthday present.
I would like to buy a new pair of sandals.
I would probably buy some new headphones!
I would love to buy some books for my Kindle.
I would love a new yoga towel for Bikram. One of those things I feel guilty just buying for myself because I know a beach towel works almost as good and we have plenty of those.
I would buy some craft supplies for easter.
Wow…you sure did have a busy week! Congrats on a good race…Calvert Hill? Is the God-Awful hill at mile 6? I’m hoping my body remembers it know how to run a half marathon, this week as this will be the MOST unprepared I’ve EVER been for a half. smh
I would like to buy some excersiing clothes, new shorts and tank top to be specific.
I’d use it towards a birthday gift for my younger son
Cool that there was a runner-focused Capitol tour!
Lauren @ Lauren Runs recently posted…Weekly Wrap 3.14.2016
Such a beautiful sunrise! Glad to hear you had a good race!
Jennifer @ Run Jenny Run recently posted…Gate River Run 15K Training Week 11 – 3/7-3/13
Great job on your race Erika isn’t if great when your body just kicks into race mode even with the lack of training!?! I love the picture of the sunrise and it sounds like a great race, one I look forward to reading the recap! Thank you for the giveaway and linking up with us!
Tricia@MissSippipiddlin recently posted…Why Running Sucks
i need new sneakers! mine are wearing out crooked and i feel it when i walk 🙂
I would buy a coloring book.
I have a really long Amazon wish list, and currently on my list are some kitchen gadgets.
I’d buy some books.
I would purchase a few books I have been looking to preorder
I would like to buy a new pair of sunglasses.
I want to buy some books I have on my wish list 🙂
Knowing me, it’d probably go towards some running gear or maybe a video game.
I’d like to buy an exercise mat! I’m trying to get better into shape but our floors are so hard.
I have a long wish list on amazon. I would probably use this gift card to buy a roku 4.
Running socks!
I’d buy some clothes for the trip to New Zealand I’m hoping to take this year.
I would buy new knives for my kitchen.
I would like to buy my daughter some summer books to read!
I’d like to buy some gardening supplies!
Gifts for my grand baby!
I could always use more Nuun hydration and Honey Stinger products – they’re staples of my diet from Amazon!
I want to buy a new camera lens!
I need some running shorts now that it’s getting hot (I’m in Texas – summer comes around real early) so I’d love to buy some of those. 🙂
thanks!
I would buy some new running shorts for the summer!
I’d probably buy some books. My wife would likely buy new running shoes, though. She’s been interested in getting some New Balance shoes.
I would possibly use the gift card to get my son a pair of shoes
If I won I would use it towards a birthday presents for my sons upcoming birthday.
I would probably get one or two of the books on my long list.
I would buy a new bathroom rug
I would use the gift card towards an awesome camera accessory 😀 Thanks for the giveaway!
I would like to buy some new socks, there are some really cute ones on amazon and my current ones have holes
I need a new mouse for my laptop
I’d like to buy my daughters some books.
I would like to buy a pair of athletic/running shoes.
I would like to buy some Smartypants vitamins for the kiddos.
I would love to buy my daughter one of the new Ever After high dolls coming out for her end of the year promotion ceremony. It is her promotion from elementary to middle school.
I would buy some educational books for my daughter.
I’d like to buy books, books. and books
I would put this prize toward the Storage Bench I want to get for my daughter’s room for her blankets and winter accessories.
I love to read, so I’d get at least 2 of the books that I have saved on my Amazon wish list.
I’d buy a new yoga mat
I would like to buy a cast iron skillet.
I would like to buy some linens which I sorely need.
I’d like to buy NOW (brand) Liquid Stevia. I always order it from Amazon.
I’m saving up for new roller skate wheels – I’ve taken up roller derby recently and this would help go towards those!
My husband really wants wireless headphones for running and I would put it towards getting hiim a pair
I would buy books!
I would buy several books that have been on my Wish List.
Tammy Woodall recently posted…#LetsMove at the White House
I would buy printer ink.
I’m super into Essential oils right now, I’d buy some of that! 🙂
Since school will be out in just two short months I think I would put the $25 on some outside toys for exploration or water type toys for my 8 year old son to get him up and moving instead of sitting on the Xbox 360 or iPad all day long.
I would use it to buy a birthday gift for my grandson.
Congrats on the race!! If I win I’d buy something running related I’m sure! Currently in need of some massage sticks/ recovery tools to tame cranky calf muscles.
I would buy some essential oils with it.
I would like to buy stuff for my newborn baby girl!
I would use the gift card towars a new pair of sneakers.
I would buy clothes.
I’d buy a new book!
I would love to get books for my sons!
I’d love to have waterproof Bluetooth speakers, so I’d probably use this card towards that purchase if I win! Thanks!
I would get some new reading material for spring. I have my eye on a few books.
I want to get The Walk Blu-Ray 3D!
I’d like to buy something for my kiddos.
I would put it toward some new music for my running playlists – need some new tunes for motivation!
I would buy books and songs.
I would buy my daughter some new clothes for school
I’d buy cat food and treats.
I would buy cute clothes
I would like to buy some essential oils.
I would use the gift card to purchase some cosmetics items that I’m running low on.
Id like to buy some tea
I’d love some new pillows for the chairs on my deck.
whew! You did have a busy week! Your special tour in DC looked like a lot of fun, who doesn’t love the inside scoop 🙂
If I win I will buy books.
I would like to get beauty blender.
I would like to buy something off my wish list for my birthday. It would probably be a movie, a book or personal care item.
I need new yoga pants so I would put the money towards that or a new mat.
I would like to add it to my credit so I can get a kindle fire for the girls.
i would buy k cups
I need a few gardening items. I really need a good pair of gardening / work gloves, I would get a better pair then I normally would if I won the giveaway.
I would apply this toward a Kindle Fire.
i would buy my mom a mothers day gift.
I’d use the gift card to purchase adult coloring books. Thanks.
partymix25(at)Hotmail(dot)com
Would put a gift card toward some new running shoes!
I’d love to use it to buy some light-weight socks.
I would buy coffee, chocolate, & some books to read! 🙂
Id love to put it towards some homeschool supplies!
I would probably buy books!
I would like to buy a subscription box for healthy meals
I would buy some books
I’d like to buy a book or a dress for my daughter as a surprise for her.
I can never have enough books!
books
I’d love the gift card to buy things for our new baby to arrive in August
I would love to buy an indoor tv antenna.
I would love to buy an MP3 player for my work.
I’m saving for a tv.
I am currently remodeling my whole house, so this prize would help out with the renovations.
I would buy books.
I love the new Kavu rope sling bags. I’d buy one if I was this giveaway winner. Thanks for the chance!
Dianna recently posted…Time to reduce the clutter! Spring Cleaning + #giveaway hop
I would buy books and dog treats.