Gate River 15k race recap

Gate River 15k

Along with almost 15,000 other runners beat the green monster today. If you haven't run the Gate River 15k you might not know what that means, but I am here to tell you all about it. 

For being such a large race Gate River was extremely organized. Probably one of the most organized races I have participated in.  On race day, the police did a great job of funneling cars to several different parking lots which kept the lines moving and got everyone parked pretty quick.  There were tons of port a potties all around for your last minute restroom needs. Bathroom lines  (when there were lines) took about 2 minutes. So short! The starting line was clearly marked with the different wave starts.  With a submitted time I was able to qualify for the seeded corals. Wave 1 - Yay! I have never been so close to the start line before, it was crazy.


We took off right on time and hit our first bridge at mile 1. I was very surprised by the amount of elevation change there was on this race... I mean, this is FLORIDA!

The course wound through several "higher end" neighborhoods and the community involvement was spectacular. People lined the roads through the entire course of the race. People had their BBQ's out and were offering sausage and pancakes, donuts and pastries, several areas had sliced fruit, popsicles, even whiskey shots and ice cold beer! People had music playing in front of their houses and made signs cheering as we all ran by. It was really fun. At mile 8 we came up to the Green Monster. The 1 mile incline of a bridge (Hart Bridge), and it was very unwelcome when it arrived! Haha. I knew about the bridge and thought I was prepared but I don't think you can prepare for that until you have experienced it first hand. It was SO LONG! All of mile 8 was uphill, but then all of mile 9 was down! Yep, they had a 1 mile-timed downhill section of the course. That mile for me timed in at 7:27. Not bad considering I had just ran uphill first! The final .30 seemed to take forever, finally came across the finish-line at 1:21:16. Not what I had originally hoped for, but considering I have an abscess tooth (diagnosed Friday afternoon) and we were running "bumper to bumper" with other runners from start to finish, and it was SO WARM and humid out... I'll take it :)

I finished in the top 10% of all female runners and earned myself a "top 10% finishers hat" in addition to my metal. That was pretty cool! I feel like the finishers area was very spread out, I actually missed all of it. I walked forever and finally found some water, walked quite a bit more before finding my metal and the photo-op area... Then that was it. No muffins or bananas or Gatorade or anything. I walked through the parking lot to find the my running group to see how everyone else did. I guess there were other items in the finishers area, but I somehow missed them. I was so in need of more water and some Gatorade because it was so warm out. 

FCR (Flagler County Runners) throws an amazing "after-party" with mimosas, bloody mary's, beer or all different kinds, breakfast casseroles, bacon, sausage, eggs, breads, fruit - it was awesome! We had a lot of fun just hanging out with everyone. Can't wait to run it again next year!!

Race of the Runways 5k ~Race Recap

5K Race of the Runways - Flagler Beach Rotary Club

I had a chance to "race the runway" at Flagler County Airport. It was a fast flat course along the actual Flagler Beach Airport runway and taxiway. We were entertained by helicopters and planes flying above us during the race. it was an open space, with extra wide turns and was well staffed. They had 1 water station at the half way point (which I never use during a 5k, but it is nice to know it's there if I had needed it).

I worked late Friday night, after a very long work week and was beat. I arrived at the airport around 8am on the very frigid Saturday morning. I didn't "feel" like running, but since I paid for it, and an FCR friend went out of their way to pick up my packet and drop it off at my work for me on Friday night, I figured I better be there and run.

They were very well organized with tons of pre/post race food items (bagels with PB or cream cheese, fresh sliced fruit, nutri-grain bars, water and juice). We started right on time (1 minute late, but that's on time for a race event! haha). We took off and ran almost 3 miles of the 3.1 on the runway. They had a bunch of the planes out lined up and down the runway. It was also cool being able to see how many people were ahead of you (because it was basically 1 large loop). I ran most of the race next to the older guy again (I ran Waterfront with him and got my sub-24 PR). I found out after the race he is an FCR friends dad! So funny!

I came in at 23:44 (the exact same time I had for my last 5k). I didn't give it my all which bums me out a little because I think I would've come in a few seconds faster and got a new PR. Oh well, next time ;)  I got 2nd in my age division, the metal was a little airplane with a spinning propeller. Pretty sweet! My son loves the tech-shirt and metal, he tried to steal them... haha.

Overall it was a great race, I look forward to it next year, hopefully it won't be so darn cold though!

My Life, and Lyme.

I don't talk a lot about Lyme Disease or my personal struggles with it. Most people either don't understand it, or are blissfully ignorant. Lyme disease is one of those things that you hear about but aren't educated on, something that happens to other people, not to you. If you are one of those people, please take time to educate yourself. Learn. Lyme does not attack only crazy trail runners, nor are you immune because you’re not out playing in the woods every weekend. 

I don’t pretend to know much about Lyme or even Lyme prevention. I have searched Google for everything about Lyme, and mostly what I've learned, is no one knows a lot about Lyme. We know where it comes from, the wide range of symptoms, but there is no "cure", only treatments that CAN help. All I really know is my experience with the disease. I did a lot of internet searches for distance runners with Lyme disease, or running after Lyme. The information just wasn't there, which was part of why I have decided to try and incorporate a little more about Lyme into my blog. I was desperate for success stories, and hope to provide one for someone else.

Over the last 6 months, I have done three different rounds of oral antibiotics, narrowly escaping the surgical implantation of a PICC line for intravenous antibiotics. I have been referred to an infectious disease doctor in Jacksonville, but our beautiful state of Florida doesn't have the greatest health care and I have been having a really difficult time getting in to actually SEE a doctor. Even after the treatments that I have had, I still suffer many of the Lyme symptoms. I am fortunate that they come and go, others aren't so lucky. They last anywhere from 2-3 days, to a week. I get extremely tired, foggy brained, and very sore and achy all over.I sometimes spike fevers and just feel very run down. I have a friend that asked me why I don't take a few days off training and take it easy during my "Lyme Attacks" so I can get rest. I explained that it doesn't help, I can sleep for 12 hours and still feel exhausted when my Lyme flares up. It's not like I am sick and need rest to recover. Lyme is just there. Taking rest time hasn't seemed to make any difference on my recovery time from it so I just push through knowing my running pace will likely be slower than normal, and the workouts will be harder than I expect. 

These last couple days I could feel it coming on, and it hit me full force this morning. My eyes hurt and my body aches. Getting out of bed this morning felt physically impossible. I had a migraine. I put my running shoes on, and left to meet my friend. It was a hard run. My whole body was fighting me, and my brain felt like I was playing pinball with it while I ran (bouncing around in my head). "It's just Lyme" I remind myself, I am stronger than this. I ran 8 miles, will do some deep cleaning today, then I have an 8 hour shift waitressing tonight. I will not succumb to Lyme Disease, and it will not overtake MY life.

"I suffer in silence.
I fight alone."

Also, I highly recommend reading Bart Yasso book, My Life on the Run. Bart Yasso is a running legend who has struggled with Lyme Disease for a long time. 

Miami Marathon 2015 Recap #Miamifamous

2015 Miami Marathon race recap 

Mom & I on the red carpet

Well I still can't walk normal today, that must be a sign of a hard earned and unexpected Marathon PR. I want to start off by saying, I am so grateful to having such an amazing, supportive husband. Without him I would not be able to do what I love. The training, the races, everything would not be possible without him.

Race: Miami Marathon
Date: January 25th, 2015
Finish Time: 4 hours, 09 minutes
Distance: 26.2 miles
Gain/Loss: 1742 ft

We drove down to Miami Saturday (about 5 hours) and spent about 2 hours at the Race Expo. It was massive, as if I would expect nothing less from Miami than an "over the top" Expo. It was pretty cool walking down the red carpet surrounded by flags of all the countries that had people participating in the event.  There were runners from 80 countries, 6 of the 7 continents, and from all 50 states!
We didn't eat much all day since we were driving, and I was starving so we left to find some food. We had problems finding dinner so I ended up not eating my normal pre-marathon dinner. That made me a little nervous. We settled into the hotel around 5:30 and snacked on our dinner (chips with bean dip, hummus with pita chips and a slice of veggie pizza all bought from Whole Foods around the block from our hotel). I was so relieved and excited to run this marathon without any Lyme Disease symptoms to hold me back or hinder me. This was the first of the season that I didn't "feel" it for the race. That, on it's own, I knew would make the race so much better than my last 2 marathons.

The corrals at the start line

Woke up early Sunday morning after an expected sleepless night and debated what to wear. It was supposed to be 53 at 6 am and around 65 when we finished around 11. There was also light wind 5-10 mph. The great debate of pants/shorts hit hard! We both decided on shorts and tanks and I wore my arm warmers as well. Today, I will become a Marathon Maniac. That alone made this race amazing.  I kept that in my mind throughout the whole race. I was going to achieve my goal of 3 marathons in less than 90 days. Pretty exciting.

A view from the BLIMP of all the runners

We walked the 1.2 miles down to the start line at the American Airlines Arena on Biscayne Blvd. The corrals were crazy busy. The marathon was well organized, they were checking our BIBS to make sure you were in the right corral and the corrals gated off so people weren't going into the wrong corrals. We started about 25 minutes after the gun time in Corral F. There were so many people. The scenery of Miami in the dark (6am) was cool. So many flashing lights and colors, the architecture of the buildings was pretty cool too. There was a lot of "support" from local businesses and spectators. There were 24 aid stations with water and gatorade. Also roughly 10 stations with fresh fruit which was seriously amazing. They had cups of small peeled oranges, or pineapples at some stations, 1/2 bananas at others, some even had protein bars, GU chomps, pretzel rods and even cupcakes (provided by  the cutest little spectators)... such an awesome pick me up.

At mile 1 we encountered our first bridge. It was huge but the scenery was gorgeous. The sun was rising over the ocean and it was a beautiful site. The first 3 miles are ran across MacArthur Causeway. A long a line up of Cruises ready to depart later on the day. Around 6 miles we got to run along the Miami Famous South Beach.That was a cool site. Mom and I noted the cars that must've been left overnight due to too much partying. Bummer their car was going to be stuck most of the day while the Marathon continued!! Around mile 10 I remembered to enjoy the scenery. We were just running for fun, taking our time in hopes of finishing. The first 13 miles were at a very easy pace which included 2 bathroom stops (I wasn't feeling well, and with no breakfast my stomach was not happy about running). We had been staying near the 4:20 pacer in hopes of finishing near her. Mom mentioned she would be slowing down, and her feet were hurting. She had switched out her high arch insoles for a different pair this morning, she decided that was a huge mistake :(  She even joked about it being tempting to turn of with the 1/2 marathoners... I peeked over my shoulder to make sure she didn't ;)

The sunrise over the causeway

Mile 15 she started trailing a little and I assumed she would be back at my side by the next water stop. She wasn't so I just kept running. I passed the 4:20 pacer around then and continued running. I ran with the 4:15 pacer for a few miles, and lost them around mile 20. I was counting down "8 miles to go", "6.2 miles, just a 10k to go". I made one last bathroom stop around mile 22, shortly afterward because the race backtracked, I passed my mom who wasn't too far behind me. This gave me such a boost hearing her yell across the hwy "GO TONI!! GO!!" I was so excited to have seen her. I was still feeling pretty darn good. I was being silly to the photographers, and high-fiving spectators. They had beer around miles 9 and 23, beer? Yep this is Miami!

Some of the amazing fruit givers!

Haha. Mile 23-24 felt really long. I remember thinking I must have missed the mile marker it felt so long. It was probably the hardest part of the whole race. I knew I was going to come in around 4:15 which would be a PR for me so I kept picking up the pace more and more. I knew there was a chance and I was so excited to be that close to an unexpected PR. There were 5 bridges total for this "flat course". The final bridge being at mile 25 - SERIOUSLY?? I was so mad. Haha. I came over the bridge running faster and faster. I rounded the corner and could see Mile 26. OH MY GOODNESS I am almost done. Sprinting at this point I entered the finisher chute. I LOVE long finisher chutes. I ran down it pushing everything I had and crossed the finish line. I had no idea what my time was because of the delayed start, or where my mom was. I quickly checked the online live race updates while walking down the finishers chute... 4:09:35. WHAT!? I thought there must be a mistake, I refreshed 5 times and it stayed the same.

The after party!

The finisher chute was awesome, they had everything from pastries/bagels, cookies, protein bars, pretzels, fruit, Gatorade and water. Also tons of photographers. My mom crossed just a little behind me and we got our super cool finisher photos taken together. We had to hustle back to the hotel because of an early checkout time so we didn't get to enjoy the after party - but it looked amazing. It was huge and there was so much going on I wish we could have stuck around a little longer.

Miami Marathon for me, was the Race of the Unexpected PR.

I am excited  to say I am #Miamifamous and hope to run this beautiful, fun race again.

Jax Bank Marathon Race Recap

My husband and I met my parents at the hotel in Jacksonville "Jax" as the locals call it. My dad was planning to run his first 1/2 marathon, mom her first full, and my husband was along as the most amazing, supportive spectator around (and great photographer too). We drove to 1st Place Sports, a local running shop that is a big sponsor for this race. The shop was cool, the people were well informed and friendly. I bought myself a cool coffee mug that says "26.2" and they gave me a free shoe charm for making a purchase. Let me really start by saying, I got to Jax completely unprepared. I forgot my phone carrier, my ear buds, my shirt I was planning on wearing, and my handheld water bottle. I purchased a new phone carrier and ear buds at the store, wore a different shirt I brought (not dri-wick which was a bummer with the heat/humidity... I'll get into that later).

Pre race, getting ready! #Jaxbankmarathon

We had a good dinner (salmon with veggies and some bread for me, as always pre-marathon), and got to bed early. We left the hotel around 5:45am to go early and find parking. Not much traffic congestion and we found a great parking spot on the main road right at the start/finish line. We beat the crowds by seconds because it got crazy right after we pulled in. The race started at 7am, it was a very HUMID 67 degrees at the start of the race, and the temps rose quickly. It was 76 degrees by the time we finished, 80 degrees by the time we reached out hotel around 1pm. 

It was a fairly small race (since I have only ran Rock N Roll Marathons which are huge), this race had 699 marathon finishers. The course was nice, very very flat, total of 1400 feet elevation change with no real "hills" or bridges to cross. We ran through neighborhoods in a single lane. There were water stations/Gatorade every 2 miles or so (which would have been fine any other race, but with the heat I was certainly dragging in-between), they also had 4 stations with GU along the course. I personally don't use GU but I thought it was awesome they had so much available. 


The first 18 miles I was lucky enough to run with my mom. I started slowing down around then, and she was able to maintain a faster pace than me, I was so happy to see her take off. "GO MOM! GO!" I met some great people along the course with awesome stories at what brought them there. I ran into a girl from my hometown who belongs to the same running club as me (Flagler County Runners, FCR) around mile 19? Ish? We ran together off and on for the rest of the race. This was her first marathon and I was so excited to watch her cross the line about 15 seconds ahead of me. 

My mom crossing her first FULL marathon finish line! 

Me crossing my 3rd marathon finish line!

I went into this race saying I was running to finish, to remember to enjoy myself. For the most part I did. The heat really got to me, I puked twice because of it. Overall it was a great race. My official time was 4:38:08 (mom finished almost exactly 10 minutes before me). This was my SLOWEST marathon to date, by a LONG shot. But, it was also the first I had to endure heat AND humidity. 

We ALL finished!

Gifts "Customized Medal Hanger" and "Road ID"

First, I want to start by wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas! This is my most favorite time of year. It is all about family, and thinking about other people (gift giving). I love the holiday spirit, and I really love the holiday themed runs!

My husband got me a personalized Road ID bracelet. I say personalized because he purchased charms "badges" that hook onto it. The bracelet that has my information, emergency contact numbers and he listed my medicine allergies. Such a thoughtful gift! Something to keep me safe while I'm out running, and looks super cute too. He bought me two 26.2 badges for my 2 marathons I have ran, one that says "shut up legs" and one for breast cancer awareness. I love it! I can't wait to add more charms around the band. My picture doesn't do it justice but it was the best I could do with my cell phone this morning.
You can find these awesome bracelets here. Use code "TAF5P5ZFF2W" or "TAF5RVV9X95" for a $1 off discount! (please comment if you use them so I can remove, they are only good once each ;)
http://www.roadid.com/default.aspx

I received the coolest Christmas present from my grandpa. He made me a medal holder to display all my running medals from. Let me repeat that, he MADE it for me. Custom built specially for me by his own two hands. How cool is that? It has a shelf on the top so I can put different trophies and my bibfolio on the shelf so everything is together. It is perfect. I am so excited to get all my medals out of the back of my closet and out where I can see them. I hung it on the wall in front of my treadmill, this way when I am feeling discouraged I will have something to remind me of how much I have done, and what I have accomplished.

This is the greatest keepsake for me. It blends two of the things I love most in life, family & running. What a sentimental gift this is. Thank you grampa.

What do you hang your medals on? Do you have a display of some sort or are they in the back of a closet like mine were?

Starlight 1/2 Marathon

The Starlight 1/2 Marathon is described as "A night-time run that takes runners first through thousands of parade spectators, then through a holiday decorated course in and around Town Center. Be entertained along the way by holiday lights and music. Finish the race through a Christmas tree lined finish chute and enjoy music, s’mores, beer, hot food and drinks".

Running in the evening was so different than getting up at 430am for those morning runs. I had to plan my food for the day a little more strategically. I didn't, but I would recommend doing so lol. To my excitement my husband decided to run the 5k portion of the race last minute so we wore matching Grinch shirts and Santa hats. I got to cheer him on at the start, and he got to cheer me on down the finish line. 

The course was pretty awesome. We ran on Lehigh trail which they had portions of it decorated with Christmas lights and had glow sticks lighting the sides of the path. They had volunteers everywhere making sure you were going the right way and also had plenty of water and Gatorade stations with great volunteers cheering you on along the way. This had to have been one of the most organized races I have been to. The last mile was all full of Christmas light displays and a live band playing Christmas music.

I paced my self at an easy pace, listening to Christmas music along the way. Around mile 11 I saw an opportunity to pick up the  pace and pass a couple of girls who looked about my age (yes, I let my competitive nature kick in). I passed them at an easy, just a little faster than they were going knowing they would likely pickup the pace closer to the finishline to try and pass me. Ifelt them getting closer around 12-12.5 miles. So naturally, I picked up the pace more and gave it all I had without risking injuring myself or wiping myself out. I stayed ahead of them beating them by a mere 30 seconds. I took 2nd in my age division. I also got a new PR of 1:54:33  (chip time was 1:55 but I started back from the start line, and they didn't have a start chip tracker just a finish line). 

 

When you ran through the Christmas tree lined finishers chute you were showered with "snow" which was awesome. Then you ended in this beautifully decorated area with tons of tables (set with white table cloths and center pieces), you were given a water bottle (which you could refill with gatorade if you needed some extra electrolites), free pizza or hot soup, beer or apple cider sangria, free coffee or hot chocolate. It was amazing! There were also s'mores stations set up so you could roast marshmallows and have s'mores while you were sitting and visiting with others, chatting about the race. Plus, my medal glows in the dark. How cool is that!!!

This race will now be a new tradition for us. It was so well organized, and an all-around happy race. Who wouldn't be happy when surrounded by Christmas lights and free food/drinks right? 

Here are a few more pictures of some of the light displays..

We were also mentioned in our local newspaper found here. 

http://www.palmcoastobserver.com/news/palm-coast/Sports/1223201410121/Starlight-wonderful-magical-runs

Enjoying running again.

I have been really struggling with my runs the past several months. I dread them, I stress over my time and no longer feel the runners high we are all so addicted to. I have 2 marathons coming up over the next month and I really want to get back to that place of enjoying the journey. Yes I hurt (Lyme Disease), yes I am more tired then I should be, but I know it is possible to still enjoy running. So yesterday I decided I was going to do a long run 18-22 miles ish. I left with no plan except to run. I turned all my audio cues off for time and had it just update me on my distance. I found a pace that felt comfortable and just ran. Since I wasn't worried about my routes ect I was able to run new areas because I was just following the sidewalk to see how far it went before it ended! When I started feeling uncomfortable I asked myself if I needed to slow down, or just needed to ignore everything from the waist down.

 I ended up running 19.10 miles (with no water) and my average pace was 9:16 per mile. That is pretty quick for me, I usually struggle to maintain that pace and feel miserable the whole time. This run was amazing. This is the mental preparation I needed so desperately. I am remembering how to enjoy the journey, not just focusing on the finish time. It's easy to get caught up in race pace and finish times so this is a reminder to everyone, put down your clocks and just go run. It did amazing things for me mentally, and I so needed this. I am excited for the Jax Bank Marathon in 2 weeks. I don't care if my finish time is a PR or my slowest ever. I want to enjoy the journey and continue learning more about myself.

Lyme Disease will not stop me. I will continue to push through the physical ailments and depend on my mental strength to keep going. I am happy, I will train happy and I will race happy. That is all there is to it.

Upcoming runs/races
Starlight 1/2 Marathon 12/20/2014
Jax bank Marathon 12/28/2014
Flamingo 5k (NewSmyrna) 01/01/2015
Charleston Marathon 01/17/2015
Waterfront 5k/10 mile 01/24/2015
Warrior Dash 5k 01/31/2015
Run 26.2 with Donna 1/2 Marathon 02/15/2015

Stocking Stuffers and Small Gifts for Runners

Stocking Stuffers and Small Gifts for runners.
Just in time for the holidays, I have been working on this list for several weeks and I think I have it narrowed down to some of my favorites... finally. I have compiled a list of running stuff that I believe are great gift ideas and stocking stuffers for runner family members and friends. Everything here can be squeezed into a stocking, or wrapped as a gift. Price average of everything is around $10 depending on where you shop. Amazon has great deals on most of this stuff, and I have even found some of it for super cheap at TJ MAXX (as surprising as that seems). Please feel free to comment if you think of something I missed, or what you might agree with as some of your favorites. I'd love to hear some input from fellow runners!

• Body Glide. This is amazingly necessary for any form of distance running, or running in humidity. Holy Moly this has been a lifesaver for me on so many occassions. GREAT STOCKING STUFFER.   http://www.bodyglide.com/
  

• Sweet (customizable) Necklace. I bought a matching set of the first one for my mom and I for running a full marathon in the Rock N Roll Marathon series.  https://www.etsy.com/listing/83755615/rock-n-roll-race-262-running-jewelry?ref=shop_home_active_2&ga_search_query=rock%2Bn%2Broll

• Vinyl Decals. What runner doesn't want a sticker on their car? If you don't want a permanent sticker, they also sell car magnets!   http://www.goneforarun.com/Die_Cut_Vinyl_Decals_s/832.htm
  

• Bib Coasters. Now these are cool. Last year after completing my first marathon, my mother in law got me one of these for Christmas. This year, she got me another. I now have 2 coasters with my race BIB on them and they are not only great as a keepsake, but a great conversation piece too! Eventually, I hope to have a whole coaster set made of them.  http://www.goneforarun.com/Your_Race_Bb_on_Set_of_4_Coasters_BibCOASTERS_p/tr-bibcoaster-bs.htm

  

  
  
  

• Compression Socks. These are amazing for recovery, and you can't really have too many pairs! I bought this brand "Mojo" and have been very happy with them!  http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MMR1Q1G/ref=sr_phie=UTF8&qid=1417711616&sr=1&keywords=compression+socks
  
  

  

  
  

• Electrolyte re-placers (for distance running, or running in heat). I personally love Nuun. They  have a huge variety of flavors and are all natural. Also, pretty inexpensive. You can get 1 tube for about $5-$7 or a 4 pack for closer to $20-$25. You can buy them online or at a local running store/vitamin store. http://www.amazon.com/Mixed-4-Pack-Original-Flavors/dp/B00K6S523Q/ref=sr_1_4?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1417711836&sr=1-4&keywords=Nuun

• Energy Packs. Most people go with GU packs but another alternative is Honey Stinger (an organic option). These make great stocking stuffers! You can buy them online or at a local running store/vitamin store. http://www.amazon.com/HONEY-STINGER-Pomegranate-Organic-Energy/dp/B00IZO0SMI/ref=sr_1_37?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1417711991&sr=1-37&keywords=honey+stinger

• Handheld water bottle. These are a necessity when running in warmer weather or distance running. I personally have the Nathan Vapor Bottle which works great for me, there are a lot of options out there though!  http://www.amazon.com/Nathan-Vapor-Bottle-Black-Orange/dp/B009KQ87NC/ref=sr_1_12?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1417712109&sr=1-12&keywords=nathan+handheld+water+bottle

• Headbands. These are great for keeping lose hair out of your face, and let's face it, they're super cute! http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=29756766&camp=CSE:GooglePLA:29756766:17605473:ATHLETIC%20ACCESSORIES&CAGPSPN=pla&CAWELAID=120138600000188703&catargetid=120138600001586800&cadevice=c
  

• Christmas Ornament. After completing my first marathon my mom bought me a customized running ornament with the date of my marathon. I LOVE it. What a treasure it is to me. They have generic ornaments, or customized ornaments. http://www.goneforarun.com/Running_Ornaments_s/863.htm

  

  
  

• Lights! Knuckle lights, blinky lights or headlamps are all great for runners who sometimes miss the daylight! This is a great gift to help keep your loved one safe.
  http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=29756766&camp=CSE:GooglePLA:29756766:17605473:ATHLETIC%20ACCESSORIES&CAGPSPN=pla&CAWELAID=120138600000188703&catargetid=120138600001586800&cadevice=c
  

  

  
  

• Ear Buds. Personally I LOVE Skull candy. They stay in my ears while I'm running, and play my music loud and clear.  http://www.skullcandy.com/shop/earbuds/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=sem&utm_campaign=brand&utm_term=skullcandy%20earbuds&utm_content=34_GO_SX_AL_WW_11_00_00_US_000057_000170_000000&gclid=Cj0KEQiAqYCkBRC4xNiSu5-Y-PcBEiQA96OM9IuSjv6zilCT_i3s5BpYUoGpk0nEGn5ORDJc1hZxF0waAt_h8P8HAQ
  

• Arm Band. Carrying your phone in your hand or pocket is such a pain, these phone carriers are great. Make sure you get one for the type of phone they have (iPhone, Galaxy ect) 
  

• Self-Foot Massagers. These are great ways to help relax your feet after those runs. Easy to use, inexpensive, and so useful. I searched amazon and there are several different kinds on there, I have the two pictured here, they're awesome. http://www.amazon.com/Spacific-6312-Wood-Foot-Roller/dp/B0002Y1C6K/ref=pd_sim_hpc_15?ie=UTF8&refRID=1JCAWE1Q4X9V1FQXCDN9
  
  
  
  

• Muscle Roller Stick. Pretty self explanatory on why these are so great, but it's nice to be able to rub those tight calves or thighs on your own without needing to bother someone else with it!  http://www.amazon.com/Muscle-Roller-Stick-Awesome-Guarantee/dp/B00GTLOUDM/ref=pd_sim_hpc_14?ie=UTF8&refRID=1JCAWE1Q4X9V1FQXCDN9
  

• SneakerBalls. Let the smell of clean shoes bring a smile to your face. These SneakerBalls are shoe fresheners designed to handle even the smelliest of odors. http://www.runningwarehouse.com/SneakerBalls/descpage-SBM6P.html
  

• Lip Balm. Wind and cold weather both can cause pretty chapped lips.

• Sports Bra. Might sound like a weird gift to give someone, but there is nothing like a new sports bra, and it is something I seldom treat myself to.
  

For cold weather climates:

• Gloves. Help your loved one or friend stay warm this winter with some easy to breath, thermo gloves.  http://www.amazon.com/Mizuno-Running-Breath-Thermo-Glove/dp/B00DVFMXXS/ref=pd_sim_sg_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=15PZC911BGCRBVFTN1FD
  

• Arm Warmers. Arm warmers, a.k.a. sleeves, can be both functional and stylish. They are lightweight, easy to scrunch if needed, and available in a growing variety of colors, styles, and themes. http://www.amazon.com/Saucony-90180-Drylete-Arm-Warmers/dp/B005GYNKT8/ref=pd_sim_sg_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=15PZC911BGCRBVFTN1FD
  

• Beanie/Headwarmer. When out running keep your head and ears warm with a cute headwarmer or beanie. http://www.runningwarehouse.com/ASICS_Thermopolis_LT_2-N-1_Headwarmer_Lite-Show/descpage-ATLT2HL.html 
  

When all else fails, paid race entries are always a great gift/stocking stuffer. Who doesn't want a free race entry?