a beginner's guide to exploring the pnw

There is absolutely no shortage, whatsoever, of things to do here in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. It's just one of the many things we love about living out here. One of our least favorite things, however, is simply how expensive things are out here. Luckily though, there are a ton of ways to still get out there and explore, even if you're a novice, without breaking the bank.

We're learning as we go, but one of the biggest things we've learned about hiking and exploring this region is that there is a ton to see, and everything is just a little bit different. We have everything from beautiful beaches, to rocky coastlines, to mountain-ranges, and beyond. You name it, the PNW has it. But there are ways to explore without breaking the bank and without going in blind, too. Through trial and plenty of error, we've come up with five tips for the novice explorer venturing out into the beautiful PNW.

1 // Get the park passes.
Most states have state park passes, and Washington is no exception. The beauty of these passes is that they offer a single yearly fee to access all the parks on the list. Of course, you could pay the daily rate, but think of it like this; you'll pay $10/day to get into Tolmie State Park. Or, you can pay $35/year to get in all the passes that take the Discover Pass. Here are the big Washington State passes you should know about:

• Discover Pass - $35. Buy it online, and it's good for a year. You can print it our for same-day use, and they'll mail you your pass within about 7 business days. This pass is good on state lands.
• Northwest Forests Pass - $30. Buy it online or in person, and it's good for a year. You can print it out for same-day use, and they'll mail you your pass within about 7 days. This pass is good on national lands...basically Forest Service rec sites in both Washington and Oregon where they require a day fee. 
• America the Beautiful Pass - $80. You can buy it online or in person. The best part? This pass is free for U.S. Military members and dependents. You must buy in person at a participating federal rec site that issues passes and present your military ID. This pass is good for all national parks and federal recreation lands, so this pass would negate the need for a Northwest Forests Pass.

2 // Download the WTA trail app.

This app has been such a gamechanger for us. One of the best ways to explore the PNW is to just get outside. The WTA trail app offers a comprehensive list of the parks and sites where you can go and explore. You'll find out what passes you need, what's permitted (ie: can you bring dogs? is it a good hike for kids? can you fish?), the number of trails, etc. Better yet, it tells you what facilities are provided, which is good to know for my pregnant butt since I always need a bathroom.

3 // Search Yelp.

I freaking love Yelp. This has been my go-to since we got here for finding some of the best places to eat, as well as local reviews for childcare, swim lessons, and more. I love that you can also search for reviews of the parks. This is huge for me because you get a firsthand account of how other hikers and travelers (often in similar circumstances) view the parks and hikes in question. That's how I found out the best time to find sand dollars at Tolmie State Park. It's also how we figured out we could do Sequalitchew Creek Trail with zero prep.

4 // Consider camping.

We've yet to do this since Ryan left for his TDY too soon after we arrived here. However, it's hot on our list of things to do since we have a huge tent that's just waiting to be broken in. You can actually see which sites allow camping - both for tents and RVs - on the WTA trail app, or you can simply search the site online. Staying overnight will also give you the opportunity to explore more when you get there since you won't be rushed. Be sure to prep wisely though, as the days are warm here, and the nights hover in the mid-to-low 50s on average, even in the summer. 

5 // Always have your gear on-hand.

No, this doesn't mean you need expert hiking gear. Rather, just make sure you have something of everything so you're prepared. When we get out, we make sure we have our sneakers or boots on, plus we pack water shoes or sandals. We bring a change of clothes, a swimsuit (a ton of these places have places to take the plunge if you're brave enough!), sunglasses, plenty of sunscreen, bug repellant, and more. You don't need to overpack, but you do want to be prepared for what's to come.

We said when we moved here that we wanted to do all the things. The Army gives us 3-4 years at any given duty station if we're lucky, and Fort Lewis is one of the most-requested military bases for a reason. There's so much to do, see, and explore. We'd honestly be remiss if we didn't get out there and do things. Plus, there's a beauty in immersing your kiddos into the wild and letting them see how the natural world really is. We're loving these opportunities we have.

Have you ever been to the PNW? What would be/is your favorite part of this region?

three little moores (surprise!)

If you follow me on instagram, you've probably already seen our big news, but if you don't, then surprise! It's true - we're officially expecting another little Moore baby in early April of 2019, and we couldn't be more thrilled!

A few people have asked why we announced (and why we've historically done the same) our pregnancy so early. It's pretty simple, really. Ryan and I truly believe that life begins at conception, and we believe that this little life should be celebrated and loved from day one. And, should the worst happen, we would want to be surrounded and uplifted by our family and friends, rather than alone in grief. Obviously, I've had two very healthy pregnancies, so we're expecting and praying for the same this time, but you never know. This isn't everyone's cup of tea, and that's okay! For us though, this feels right :)

Some down and dirty details for the curious-minded people who've asked these questions:

// Was this baby planned?

I always find this such a funny question! But yes, essentially. We knew our family didn't feel complete with just two, so we'd been hoping and trying for a third. Ryan's endless TDYs often interfered with trying, but God's timing is always perfect.

// Will we find out the sex of the baby?

Nope! You might remember that Ryan and I didn't find out until Spencer was born either. We found out with Porter, and while I don't regret it, there's nothing quite like that surprise on baby's birthday.

// Are we hoping for a girl?

Truthfully, yes! I think a girl would be so fun. That said, I would be thrilled with another boy. I know how to raise little boys now, and I think a little boy gang would be pretty awesome, too. 

// Will you stay active this pregnancy? 

Yup - as long as physically possible! Because of my knee surgery, running may take a backseat somewhat as my ligaments stretch, but I'll definitely be swimming throughout.

// Are you going to keep working after baby number 3? 

That's a good question. I love writing, and I love what I do. That said, daycare is astronomically expensive, and it's starting to weigh on us how much we miss while they're at school. We're weighing all the options, but right now, yes, I'm planning to keep working.

This baby is so loved already, and we're thrilled to be embarking on this journey (God willing) one more time. Please cross those fingers and say a prayer that Ryan's impending deployment changes though, because that might seriously impact timelines.

shades of summer

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I like to think that as Ryan leaves more and more frequently for deployments and TDYs that I'm becoming comfortable in my ability to parent solo, all while still having fun with the boys, regardless. I shared a little of my heart on instagram last week though about how I still doubt myself for a few days before we start settling into a new routine. You were all so patient and kind with your responses, and I think so many of you are right, too! That's just motherhood. We worry...about everything. I am, however, learning to worry less and act more. 

We get out more than we used to when Ryan first deployed last year - and definitely way more than Ryan's first TDY to Korea when Spencer was still less than a year old. I've learned what works and what doesn't, we've learned how to stretch our nap times, and we've really learned to act like a functioning little trio (for the most part, of course). And we're getting more and more bold!

This past weekend, I decided that it was time. The boys have yet to have proper swim lessons, and I knew that we needed to get them registered as soon as possible. We drove up to the YMCA in Lakewood, and we signed the boys up - and had an hour of water fun, too. Spencer and Porter both start lessons next Saturday, and I am so excited. Spence will have two lessons - a preschooler one and a back-to-basics one - and Porter will have a momma-and-me basics lesson. Cheers to water safety!

We also decided to venture back to Tolmie State Park this past weekend. We went a couple weeks ago, and it was beautiful, so we decided to go at low tide to see if the rumors were true. They say that when the tide goes out, the sand is littered with sand dollars. And the rumors were true! We left with more than 60 sand dollars, and we rescued more than 200 and put them back in the water where they belong. Fun facts for those who might be curious...

Yes, sand dollars are alive. When they're living, they're actually black and covered in tiny little hairs called silia that coat the sides and underside of the creature. When they die, however, they begin to change colors, and the little hairs fall off. What's left behind is the creature's exoskeleton, and that's what we all like to pick up. We made sure the ones we picked all had smooth bottoms, and I gave them all a good rinse last night. Today, I'll embark on cleaning them...and deciding what to do with my new hoard of shells. Whoops.

We did the world's smallest little hike, too, and went to lunch with Auntie Cheryl, Mitchell, and Carter after our adventure, and we totally blew naptime...#worthit. These boys are such troopers just rolling with mama's every whim, and I like to think they're the better for it. There's so much to do and explore. Sometimes it's good to skip naps and just get out and see the world. Also, it must be said that I just love that last picture of Spencer. He had smudges of sand and dirt on his face, a little kiss from the sun, and his freckles pepper his cute little nose now. He's such a handsome boy, and I love watching him explore.

I'm linking up today with B Loved Boston for Weekending.

the happy list

If there's one thing that I've been working on this year, it's taking stock of what really makes me happy. I'm not talking about the huge things either. I'm talking about the simple things - the fleeting things - that might not seem huge at the time, but they make my days brighter and put a smile on my face. Call it an unwritten gratitude journal or something, but whatever it is, it's made things a lot more meaningful and profound, especially after a huge move across the country. Even when our weeks are insanely busy, life throws us for a loop, and everything seems to be unraveling, there's always something happy there to pull us back.

So, without further ado, I'm following in the vein of Beautifully Candid and sharing 5 things that make me happy right now...

1 // Watching my boys together.

Guys, we had these little boys close together. I was pregnant again when Spencer turned 9 months old, and it was always our home that they'd grow up close and nearly inseparable. Our wishes are finally coming true! These little boys, sure, fight at times, but for the most part, they adore each other. They share a room - not out of necessity - but rather because they like to chat themselves to sleep. 

2 // The keto diet.

I've struggled a lot with my diet and, if we're being honest here, weight gain post-MPFL reconstruction. I stress-ate a lot through the move, and not being able to run or do anything really took its toll on me both mentally and physically. The keto diet has me shedding unhealthy weight (seriously...4 lbs in 4 days), and feeling better. Check out the Keto Strawberry Shake I shared!

3 // Water, water everywhere.

This is something I've been loving a lot lately. We are so close to the water where we live in Washington, and it makes my inner fish so happy! I love that my boys are able to see the water almost daily, and we're really just a hop, skip, and a jump away from any rocky beach. In fact, we're going for a little hike and a beach day this weekend again, and we just can't wait!

4 // SLAM Tacoma.

I wasn't able to go to any of the workouts this week because of work and doctors' appointments, but I just love my SLAM fam out here. Jen's been professing her love of this workout group for a long time, but I never really paid any mind until I looked for a workout group prior to our move. Having one start here has been the BEST thing to make friends and branch out - and the real grand opening is next week!

5 // Having a happy dog.

For those who've been following me for a while, you might remember that Danny was hit by a car shortly after Ryan deployed last year. At the time, we didn't know if she'd make it, or whether she'd lose her leg, or if she'd ever be able to run again. Fast forward a year and a half, and you'd never know this dog was on the brink. She runs like a gazelle, and she's just living her best life out here.

What's making you happy this week? Have a great weekend, friends!

keto strawberry shake recipe

You may remember that Ryan and I embarked on the start of a ketogenic journey at the beginning of the year. We did really well for 30 days, then we trailed off, and we kind of got lost in the midst of our PCS journey. Prior to that, however, we were doing amazing. Ryan had lost 14 lbs in a month, and I lost 11 - insane, right? Ryan's been doing really well sticking with keto, and I've been better lately, and I'm definitely feeling the benefits. 

So, here's the biggest thing to know about the ketogenic diet...it's not that hard. Really, it isn't. In fact, it's pretty simple when you break it down. Focus on high fat, extremely minimal carbs, and once you're emotionally (and mentally) past that idea that you need carbs to survive, your body will actually thank you for omitting them from your diet. Another great thing? You won't be as munchy. You'll feel full longer, and your body will feed on its fat stores once it's properly in ketosis. I mean, does it get better than that?

One of the biggest things when I started this keto journey, however, was that I was daunted by what to eat, when to eat it, and how to eat it. Frankly, it's not that hard, but it is a little intimidating when you start. I've learned to rely on shakes in the morning to get a punch of calories, a yummy (and quick) meal, and a lot less guesswork. The best part is that these shakes are easy to prepare, you'll probably have the ingredients on hand, and you'll love how they taste. I posted my favorite Keto Snickers Shake recipe a few months ago, and now I want to share my newest favorite - the Keto Strawberry Shake.

Here's what you'll need:

8 oz of cold water

1 handful of whole frozen strawberries  - about 6-8

1/2 packet of Truvia

1/4 cup of heavy cream

1 scoop of keto vanilla protein powder - we love the Bone Broth Protein from Sports Research

That's it. Seriously - easy peasy, right? Throw all your ingredients in a good blender (we have this one here), and blend it until it's creamy, smooth, and a pretty pink color! The strawberries act as the ice to thicken it and add that shake-like texture that's totally ideal here. Also, I usually blend it for a full 45 seconds for a super-rich and frothy texture.

Nutritional Information:

calories: 341, fat: 23.5 grams, protein: 22.25 grams, carbs: 13 grams

So, a keto diet (based on 2,000 calories a day) usually shoots for less than 20 grams of carbs a day. This shake is on the higher side of carbs, in large part because of the strawberries, but trust me when I say it's worth it. I tend to back off all carbs in the latter half of the day anyway, so it helps me to frontload a little, too. This shake will definitely fill you up, and I often find it tides me over until a midday snack of nuts, or an egg - a win-win, friends!

Have you tried keto or any keto recipes? What do you think?

whirlwind weekend

Happy Monday, friends! I feel more prepared taking on this work week after the much-need mental health day I took Friday. Days like these are just needed sometimes, don't you think? This past weekend though, I embraced that "staying busy while they're gone" mentality to the fullest, so I'm not so sure it was the most relaxing weekend ever. I knew that Saturday would be busy, busy, busy from the start, but I hadn't had plans for Sunday until midday Saturday, and I decided to roll with it!

Saturday morning, the boys and I got all ready and headed over to our local Wear Blue, Run to Remember group here in DuPont again. I was a bit nervous how this would go because we also took Danny. Usually Ryan will take the stroller and I'll take Danny, or vice-versa. We never do both at the same time. I couldn't justify leaving Danny at home though, so I decided to give it a go. Worth it! We did really well, and I leveled up my mom game pushing a double stroller with two boys in it, plus had Danny the whole time, as well.

As a quick aside - and totally not sponsored at all, mind you - we invested in a waist leash for Danny by TuffMutt. It's reflective, adjustable, and super convenient because Danny ran to the side to avoid the stroller, and she can't pull me off balance anymore. We bought ours here on Amazon. Do it. You can thank me later ;)

After a successful morning 5k, the boys (and Danny) and I loaded up the car and headed out to Olympia to see our "cousins" again where we planned to kayak and spend the day. Guys, my boys are so spoiled there with family, and they love it so much. We got there around noon, right as high tide was finishing coming in, and after Spencer helped water their new flowers (too cute), we headed out for a long kayak - about 2.5 hours towards Boston Harbor. Porter rode with me on a single, while Spencer rode with Cheryl in the double. Porter couldn't hack it and fell asleep on the way back, thank goodness, giving the boy a little nap.

We also headed over to Boston Harbor which, yes, is in Washington. It's a tiny little waterfront town nearby with the cutest little pier area, dog-friendly beach, and ice cream shop/general store. Spencer was totally slap-happy from no nap by the time we got there, but it was one hundred percent worth it. We each indulged a little in soft-serve ice cream, fresh sea salt caramels, and splashing around in the water before Spencer decided to wade a little too deep. 

On Saturday, we ended up blowing both nap time and bedtime, and while the results were less than desirable, it was totally worth it. We got home around 10:30 PM, and the boys slept till almost 8, which never happens. We played it a little more low-key on Sunday morning with a quick trip to Target, nap time, and then headed to our friends' down the street for a barbecue later in the day.

Busy is best when your significant other is away, and we embraced that this past weekend. Weekends like this aren't always the easiest either because you're constantly moving, but I'm so glad we did it. The boys needed to see family and friends, I needed some more adult conversation, and it was the best way to wrap up our first week with Ryan gone again.

I'm linking up today with B Loved Boston for Weekending.

mental health day

I feel a bit like I've been running on empty the last couple weeks. And, since Ryan's TDY right now, it's exacerbated, and I've just been so tired. Between work, errands, making a new home, playing with my awesome new SLAM Tacoma group (thanks Jen!!!), and beyond, I have nothing left. So, I made a spur of the  moment decision today and decided to take a mental health day off work. Both my boys are off having a blast at daycare, and momma is sitting on the couch after a long, leisurely walk through the Dupont trail system with Danny.

I think any momma can attest to the fact that we like to push ourselves to the brink and beyond. It's in our nature to do all the things and not complain. Sometimes though, it's important to put ourselves first and really take a step back. I know I've spoken about self-care a lot lately, and I think it's become more important over the past year or two - especially while Ryan was deployed - simply because I discovered you really can't pour from an empty cup.

For those who want to serve others, be the best the wife and mother they can possibly be, it's absolutely necessary to take time for yourself. For me, that means sitting on my butt and not tackling the chores for the day. There's dust in the corner. There are still pictures waiting to be hung, and there's a dishwasher that's waiting to be unpacked. Going a mile a minute isn't going to last forever though, and today felt like a good day to take a step back.

We have such fun plans for the weekend ahead, too, and I want to be in tip-top shape. We're heading back to Olympia to see the cousins and spend the day at the beach. The boys (mostly Spencer, let's be honest here) really want to go kayaking again, and I know Danny needs a good playdate, which she always has when we visit them. 

Change is hard, but change is also so good - and so sweet. The past two nights, our amazing neighbors, Scott and Misuk, have come over just to spoil Danny and chat. It's been nice having a bit of adult company and interaction, and it warms my heart to see the boys settling in and getting to know our new neighbors, too. We're learning to really love Washington, and I can tell that so many good things are head.

But for today...today, I'll be sitting on my butt, drinking another cup of coffee, shopping on ThredUp, and just taking some "me time."

sh*t spencer says: volume 2

cactus swimsuit: target (available here)

You may remember a little bit ago, I did a post about the funny things Spencer's said recently, and my family absolutely loved reading it. Sometimes it's easy to forget these little things, so I love actually writing them down and taking the time to record them for posterity. At three and a half years old, he's downright hilarious. He has the biggest personality, and he isn't afraid to say what he wants - or what he thinks, for that matter.

Sometimes it's great. Sometimes it's a bit of a head-scratcher. Most of the time though, it's a testament to his fabulous little personality and the fact that he's growing more and more independent. I went to bed a couple nights ago looking at his baby pictures. I'm in awe of how fast time flies, and I don't want to forget these little things. So, without further ado, here's another installation of "Sh*t Spencer Says." You're welcome.

// At Dupont's 4th of July block party: "I want to be a fire truck."

I tried to correct him. I asked if he really wanted to be a fireman, but he said no. He wants to be a fire truck. Dream big, son.

// I asked him whether I'm his best friend: "Ummm...just a minute, mommy."

The rejection is real, my friends. It still stings.

// His new exclamation about all the things: "What the gosh?!"

This one cracks me up every single time. He taps his chin like he's deep in thought, and he says it with such a smile. It kills me. I have no idea where he got this.

// While on the swings: "I'm swinging you like a dinosaur, Porty."

There was a real double-take from yours truly here. I asked him what he meant, but he'd already moved on. I guess dinosaurs swing?

// Driving through a construction zone: "Gross! The outside farted!"

In his defense, it did smell awful. His logic is sound.

// Talking about going crabbing: "I want to go pinch the crabs!"

I'm not entirely sure that's how it works, but I don't have the heart to tell him that.

// I asked if he needed me to kiss his booboo: "No mommy. That's gwoss. I need a band-aid."

This was hilarious and sad. When did my kisses stop being the magic cure?!

I hope all mothers experience the joy of one-liners like these because they are literally the best. Please sure your silliest, too, because they kill me every time! 

keeping the weekend vibe going

Ryan left this past weekend, which kind of threw the latter half of the weekend for a loop, but we did our best to have fun and get some quality time before he left. On Friday, we visited Ryan's cousins at their new home in Olympia, and we blew the boys' bedtime. It was well worth the quality family and couple time, the boys had so much fun playing with family, and we enjoyed soaking up our last few moments of togetherness while we good. Then, on Saturday, we visited Sequalitchew Creek again as a family on Saturday, and we had a good time soaking up the sun, catching little crabs, and just playing together. Yesterday, we had to take Ryan to the airport, so we got up bright and early, and we did it before we had too much time to think about. I swear...it never gets easier, but it's getting normal, and I have mixed feelings about that. 

Right now, I'm feeling exhausted and drained, and I'm desperate to make that weekend vibe last a little longer. I figured that might be a common thing though, so today I'm offering up my four favorite tips to keep that weekend vibe going.

// Opt for Spontaneity

As you all well know, I am a big supporter of all things spontaneous and fun. Even when the whole brood was sick, we made a point of still getting outside and doing something fun while we could. Although it’s true that most of the spontaneity in my life is contained to the weekends, one of the things that keeps it going just a little longer is including some of those spontaneous, fun activities in the work week. Go for a bike ride with your kiddos to a local ice cream shop after dinner, or better yet, ditch the planned dinner at home and find some new restaurants to add to the Yelped list. Right now, my go-to is just taking the boys to the rocky beach to search for crabs - it doesn't get better than that!

// Get Comfortable

The worst part about Monday coming around is the need to bring back to boob jail contraptions we call bras. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love when the girls look good, but it would be nice if they could look good while also not feeling completely suffocated. One of the things I’ve done lately is search for a truly comfortable, well-fitted bra, like the ones from True & Co. that basically feel like clouds. Wearing a bra that doesn’t dig in or make me uncomfortable from the minute I put it on has made me more optimistic and much less irritable, a definite perk when spending so much time with my two little boys. It seems like such an unimportant thing but being uncomfortable is a one-way ticket to grumpy town for me. So finding a something that can keep me from hopping on that train, is key for enjoying my week - and any places we go.

// Consider Dinner

I don’t know about you, but I absolutely live by meal-planning. Taking an hour or so on the weekends to sit down and plan out our lunches and dinners for the week makes a huge difference in my stress levels Monday through Friday. There are even meal planning apps out there right now that make the whole process even quicker, which is so nice! Having meals taken care of ahead of time and not having to agonize or argue over the “what’s for dinner tonight” conversation or scour the cupboards for something I can put together is a game changer. It allows me to get the decisions out of the way and make sure I get everything stocked in my Saturday or Sunday grocery run. Once I have it all on hand, I can make my favorite keto shakes and dinners much easier.

// Get that Workout In

Okay, so I know this one is not the most fun thing for everyone but for me, it is totally necessary. For those of you who know me, you know that I love getting outside and being active in general. For the most part though, and for most people, it seems that weekends are the only time our schedules allow for time to get in a real workout. Try to find some time during your week to fit in a lunch break yoga session with a YouTube video or class at a local studio. Maybe you could join a weeknight kickball or soccer league. Even just add a block of time to your schedule dedicated strictly to the gym and go then. It’s crazy how different your energy levels and mood can be after adding a couple of workouts into your week.

I feel like life just keeps getting busier and busier, and I'm sure it's not going to slow down anytime soon. These are just four of the ways that I keep that weekend feel going, and I find little of pockets of relaxation along the way. Are there different ways you keep your weekends going a little longer?

I'm linking up today with B Loved Boston for Weekending.

washington doesn't suck

I think it's safe to say our family loves Washington. Leaving New York was hard - less because we loved New York, more because it was home - but we're settling in nicely, and I think I can finally stop babbling about the "settling" nonsense because it's done. Yes, Ryan's still leaving this weekend, and yes, that sucks, but I'm less worried about all the things because, frankly, I know they'll get done. Work is falling into place, the boys are starting to love their school, and even this messed up rental home is falling into place (yes, that deserves a post of its own).

I think the best part of Washington so far is just that there is so much to do. We're seriously never scrambling on a weekend to find something. There are so many hikes and little excursions we want to explore. The weather is cool (and yet also warm) enough to play outside, go on our little runs with friends, or just take Danny to the dog park. Better yet - the beach is literally about 5 minutes from our home. 

Better yet? We also have family really close, which is kind of a rarity. Ryan's cousin and his wife just moved to Olympia, so we're able to see them fairly frequently. In fact, we're headed their way for a beach barbecue this evening. They have a son named Spencer, too. He's much older, but it's a funny little anecdote we giggle about as the kids get confused.

It's true that this has been a season of change for us, and it hasn't been the easiest move all around, but I'm grateful for the opportunity to branch out, see new areas of the country, and really explore with my boys. Though we explored in New York, I think it's safe to say that was just a stepping stone for what we plan to do here in Washington.

This is definitely a summer I won't forget. There are so many household chores to be done, so many nuances to this house and schedule yet to figure out, but there's something spectacular about the spontaneity of it, too. We get to craft our own adventure here, and that's incredible. That's an opportunity you don't want to pass up. 

Changes are on the horizon, but if there's one thing this Army life has taught me, it's that change can be good - hard, but good. On that note, I'm calling it now. I'm going to bust out the DSLR for the next week or so. I want to capture this place in all its glory because it's about time! Get ready for all the photo dumps!

4 tips for safer summer running

You guys! It's true - I'm finally able to run again (short distances, mind you). I wasn't sure how my running would come back...or if it would even come back...post MPFL reconstruction, but I've been so blessed with a pretty fantastic recovery. I had a great surgeon, a fantastic physical therapy team, and I worked my butt off to get back on my feet. Literally. I've been running for about a month now, and I'm loving being able to move my body again, even if it is much slower than it was before.

Summer is the best season to run, but it's also arguably the most dangerous because of the heat and the sun. I choose to look at the two as a blessing, but it definitely makes for a harder running season. I learned while training for the Chicago Marathon last year that you really need to plan your summer runs, and you definitely need to listen to your body as you train. It's easier than you'd think to get fatigued before you know it. So, here are four tips you absolutely need to know for summer running.

1 // Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

This is one I seriously can't stress enough. You might not feel like it, but chances are your body is dehydrating as you go. Every bit of sweat is more hydration that needs to be replenished. When I go on longer runs - even three miles - during the summer, I make sure to have a hydration belt. I use this one from Amphipod, and the two bottles allow me to have one full of water, and one has nuun in it, which I swear by. Also, remember that hydrating is important before, during and after your run, too.

headband: bondi band (available here) // reflective vest: champion (similar here)

2 // Opt for lighter headgear.

I'm always tempted to run with a hat because it keeps my hair out of my face. Unfortunately, I even made this mistake during the Chicago Marathon where it turned out to be 80+ degrees on race day. As nice as the shade felt on my face, it trapped a ton of excess heat, and I ended up throwing away my hat somewhere in Chinatown. These days, I swear by either a visor, or a lightweight headband like these Bondi Bands, which are amazing.

3 // Consider running earlier - or later.

Since I work from home, running is (luckily) pretty flexible for me during the day. However, that's difficult during the summer months, as those are the hottest hours. When Emily and I trained last summer, we did our long runs early in the morning. We were usually on the road running by 5 AM before those hot peak sun hours. As tempting as a few extra hours or minutes of sleep may be, you'll not only escape the heat of the day, but you'll also likely be done before most people even wake up! It's a win-win.

tank: reebok (available here) // shorts: lululemon (available here)

4 // Choose light-colored (and weight) clothing.

Guys, I like black. I like alllll shades of black - black, light black, lighter black, white ;) you name it, black and gray are my jam. However, black is not the best color to run in in the summer. Whenever possible, opt for lighter colors and lighter fabrics. Go for more sleevless cuts, and be sure to choose moisture-wicking whenever possible. These tanks from Reebok are my go-to, and Lululemon speed shorts remain my favorite.

Runners, what are some tips you use to stay cool and healthy during these hot summer months? I love adding more sanity to my repertoire!