The Celiathlete

May 6, 2016

The Machine that Just Changed My Life: The AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill

M320_AlterG OH. MY. GOD.

Seriously…

OH. MY. GOD!!

My running life…as I know it…was changed today. Changed in such a good way. In a confidence boosting…pain-free…really freakin’ cool way today.

Over a year ago, just before heading out to my first (and currently only) Boston Marathon, I was diagnosed with a small tear in my right hip labrum. For over a year, I have been working hard with physical therapists and at home to alleviate the pain and rework my body mechanics to get me back out on the road…safely…without other problems popping up like the stress fracture in my leg that I got last year three days before I was to leave for Hawaii to run a marathon. I had one hell of a bad year last year.

If you’ve followed my blog for a while, you’ll know my orthopedic doctor opted not to consider me for surgery as my labrum tear is small and in, naturally, a strange spot. This meant physical therapy, which, for the longest time, I didn’t think was doing one single damn thing. Following the stress fracture, I told my doctor that I was DONE! D-O-N-E. Something had to be done because I was a long distance runner. I must run. And I currently was still not able to without pain. Lots and lots of pain.

This was when he sent me back to physical therapy…initially for dry needling. The therapist at Kort Physical Therapy, Steven, who does the dry needling talked to me about the issues I was having and ran me through some basic strength tests. I had none. I had been forced into a year off…of course I was weak. Since dry needling didn’t give me any relief prior to Boston, he said he was opting not to do it on me again…and instead introduced me to the amazing Katie, the new running specialist they hired. My life in physical therapy truly started there…and every week…every time I saw her, I was getting stronger and reworking my body mechanics to make it possible for me to run. I ran on the treadmill…I changed my form…I did exercises for balance and strength at home…I went out in the snow, rain, and cold weather to do the warm-ups and the plyometric exercises she assigned me. I still do them to this very day, even though I never want to because they do take up to 30 minutes to complete. I know they are important…so I take the time to do them…even on the rainy days…and the days I just want to go out my door and run. And soon, I was back out and running. Slowly. And not always pain-free. But I was out there, being cautious, but working on endurance, building up mileage, getting stronger by running hills…even if I hurt for three days afterwards…I did it. And the reward has been being able to run and even race again…virtually (not always completely) pain free.

But something happened very recently at Kort Physical Therapy…

You see, my physical therapist office just acquired an AlterG Treadmill!! I have been ogling and wanting to try an AlterG for AGES! I follow a lot of professional runners, and they utilize the AlterG for recovery and while they are injured. And, trust me, when I was down and out of the count last year…how I longed to see if something like this would help me out.

20160505_092841 — Me running in the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill

Today, I was given the opportunity to try it out. I had spotted this amazing machine at the expo for the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and Mini Marathon. I also spotted my physical therapist in it. HA! So, she contacted me about coming in and testing it out. Today was an ideal day to do so…so at 9 am…I left work in my running clothes and turned up at my my physical therapist office for the first time in months…and…was greeted by Katie, where we discussed races and plans…and then…she got me ready to try out the AlterG.

My training plan had me at 3 miles today, so instead of running them in the cold drizzle this morning, I was able to do them on the AlterG. So, the first thing we had to do was pick out the size of shorts I would have to wear. The shorts have a lip on them (like a tutu), that has a zipper all around it. These shorts are similar to compression shorts that athletes wear and are actually specially designed to help create an airtight environment around the lower body. Then, you step up onto the machine platform and then into the “cockpit.” From there, the little cockpit is raised up to about waist level and you get zipped in. The machine then ready to be used. Stand on the surface of the treadmill belt and allow the system to weigh you prior to exercise. Your FULL body weight is necessary here. Once the calibration is complete, the pressure in the bag around your lower body will begin to pressurize. The weight control starts at 100%…Katie took me down to 70% and got me started. I went right up to a 8:34 minute mile (7.0 mph) and let that go for about 5 minutes…just getting used to the equipment. Then I bumped it to an 8:00 mile (7.5 mph)…and soon I was up to a 7:30 minute mile (8.0 mph)…and then it was a 7:19 minute mile (8.2 mph)…and then a 7:03 minute mile (8.5 mph)…and for the last 5 minutes…I rocked out a 6:53 minute mile (aka: the fastest I have run a mile…or 8.7 mph) and it felt amazing. No pain. No twinges. Nothing. It felt easy…but I was totally working up a sweat at the same time. This was, honestly, life changing to me. Here I was, running along at a super-fast clip for these little legs and I felt unstoppable. I felt like Meb at the Boston Marathon in 2014. I could have run all day at that speed and felt amazing at the end of it. My hip, my leg, my knee…nothing twinged at any point, even when I was really pushing the pace. As my session came to an end, I slowed down the speed…got down to a walk…and then slowly boosted the pressure back up to 100% body weight. My physical therapist said this was important because if you go from the anti-gravity bubble to land without readjusting the pressure…you basically get sea legs. Good to know.

20160505_094002 — 8.7 mph feeling easy and amazing!

So, how does it work? The AlterG’s technology was originally conceived as part of an effort to help NASA’s astronauts maintain fitness during prolonged space flight. The machine basically uses an advanced pressure regulation system with a treadmill to provide the most effective and comfortable body weight support system available today. This means all the work and reduced impact to your body and joints. WINNING. All that I had heard about the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill lived up to the reputation. I am all set to invest into the packages that they are offering to spend time on this treadmill. Oh yeah…its happening. Because this just made it more possible for me to train without putting all the pressure that niggles at my hip injury (which isn’t going to heal…ever) and/or causing other injuries in the process. Especially, for me, speed work. Speed work is always where I get hurt thanks to my tilted pelvis and tight hamstrings. YAY body mechanics.

Anyway, I was so happy to be able to run 3 miles in this machine today. With some upcoming races in the works, it was nice to push myself without all the pounding on my joints and body. Kort is doing amazing things with this new technology. This is going to help so many people and athletes…and it’s here…in New Albany, Indiana.

Have any of you ever tried out or run in an AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill?? I encourage anyone and everyone to give it a try. I swear…it will change your running life forever. Especially you injury prone (um…me!)…because this machine will change the way you tackle some training forever.

I’m already looking forward to scheduling another session on the AlterG.

May 2, 2016

Product Review: Sweet Note Gluten Free Onion Bagels

005 — Sweet Note Gluten Free Onion Bagels

Product: Sweet Note Gluten Free Onion Bagels – $7.25

Oh yeah…Sweet Note Bakery is back with some brand new flavors in their online store…and this just means morning are bagelicous again. Bagelicious is a word, for the record. I used it in a sentence. HA!

The moment the announcement of the store carrying their new Online Exclusive flavor on Sweet Note Bakery’s social media sights, I was heading over there to make a purchase? Because…that is how much I love these bagels. No other gluten-free bagels live up to the amazing flavor, texture, taste, and size of these bagels. And I don’t mean bagels as big as your head, either.

If you have looked at past reviews of other Sweet Note Gluten Free Bagels that I have written, you will know that they developed a gluten-free (and vegan) New York-style bagel for all of us to enjoy. There is no law that says you have to be on a gluten-free or vegan diet to want to devour these at each setting. My roommate is neither of those things, and she eats these faster than I do at times. Anyway, what sets the Crazy Bagelers at Sweet Note apart from the other gluten-free bagels on the market is that they are true to New York-style, creating a smaller, thicker, denser bagel. When toasted, it has this amazing crunchy crust and a chewy center. That’s bagel perfection. BAGEL PERFECTION. Other gluten-free bagels on the market are light as air, packed with chemicals, and gigantic. They aren’t as filling and they just don’t have that true bagel mouthfeel. This is where Sweet Note hits the sweet spot. Authentic bagels are made with real ingredients and in real size…not super-mega-jumbo. And I’m okay with that. I love a good authentic bagel…size, texture, feel…the whole carby package.

Those Crazy Bagel Ladies sure do make this former New York-er, who had to go gluten-free after a Celiac diagnosis 5 years ago, one happy girl. But I am not alone. There is an entire community…nationwide…of crazy bagelers who are also in love with ALL THE BAGELS!! Sweet Note has definitely hit a sweet note with those who are daring enough to try.

So, they have released a few new flavors…at a variety of times, these past few weeks. But the first of these was none other than…ONION!

Yes…the ever popular, Onion Bagel! The Sweet Note Gluten Free Onion Bagel is amazing. Seriously. I prepared this as I normally do any Sweet Note Bagel. I pulled it out of the freezer this morning after a short run and a spin class and microwaved two bagels…one at a time…for 30 seconds. Then, flipped it over and hit it up for another 30 seconds. I then sliced each bagel in half and placed it on a baking sheet. You all know by now that I don’t own a toaster or a toaster oven, so I put these into the oven and left them in the mindful watch of my roommate while I went to shower off and get ready for work. About 15-20 minutes later, the amazing aroma of roasted onion wafted through the apartment and I was pulling the baking sheet out of the oven and making goo-goo eyes at the golden bagels that now awaited a schmear of some sort of topping.

Today…Daiya Vegan Cream Cheese.

006 — Sweet Note Gluten Free Onion Bagel with a schmear of Daiya Cream Cheese

It just made sense. And, technically…was all I had in my fridge for this bagel. Although…mashed avocado…ooooh…I know what I’m doing on Wednesday…

So, now properly schmeared with some cream cheese, I delivered one bagel to my roommate and went to pour myself some (very important) coffee before settling in with my own bagel while the news droned on over the presidential campaign and such nonsense. Ignoring the news, I turned my full attention to my bagel. My roommate had already devoured one of her halves…so I had a good feeling about this. I drew in a breath…inhaled that sweet onion smell…and took a bite.

OH YES! Layers (onions…layers…get it?) of flavor. Seriously. I thought that this bagel might have reached bagel perfection. You have that bitter/sweet/caramelized flavor of the bagels that sit atop the upper half of the bagel. You have this flavor penetrating all the way through the dough, the chewy center, the crisp crust…all of it…infused with this great, but not overpowering, onion flavor. The flakes of onion on the surface were a nice touch. I saw my roommate making sure she swiped up any bit of onion that might have fallen away from the bagel itself. Nothing goes to waste. That is the sign of a winner-winner-bagel dinner! If you’re an onion lover, these are sure to make you tear up (I did it again…onions…tears…HA! I’m punny!). With joy. Tear up with joy.

So, let’s discuss what goes into each Sweet Note Gluten Free Onion Bagel, shall we? These bagels are made from: Love (yes, that is an ingredient!), water, white rice flour, tapioca flour, sweet white rice flour, brown sugar, cane syrup, olive oil, molasses, yeast, xanthan gum, psyllium husk, onion, and salt. As with all their bagels, the Sweet Note Gluten Free Onion Bagels are gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free, non-GMO, egg-free, peanut & tree nut-free, and cholesterol free. Made with love, indeed!!

As for nutritional information for the Sweet Note Gluten Free Onion Bagels…you’ll eat this up! They really do stack up to the competition. Since they are made with real ingredients, every bite of these bagels are better for you and your body. A serving size is 4.5 ounces (128 grams), or one (1) bagel. ONE FULL ONION-Y BAGEL! One bagel will serve you up 290 calories, 3.5 grams fat, 0.5 grams saturated fat, 0 grams trans fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 320 mg sodium, 62 grams carbohydrates, 4 grams fiber, 8 grams sugars, and 5 grams of protein. With the higher fiber and protein counts, these bagels will keep you feeling full all morning. Gotta love that!

Your search for the perfect bagel has come to an end. Sweet Note Bakery definitely has the top of the line bagels…and you would never guess that these are vegan and gluten-free…unless you were told or read their packaging. That being said, they really nail the bagel…and make it for everyone to love and enjoy. The new Sweet Note Gluten Free Onion Bagel packs a great onion flavor, but won’t overwhelm your palate either. Top these off however you like…and feast on them often. They would make the perfect vehicle for a burger or sandwich as well. So. Much. Love.

I urge you to check your local stores for Sweet Note Bagels as soon as you can. Their products are carried here at Whole Foods and in CVS stores. But their online exclusive flavors are NOT to be missed.

Go on…place an order. You’ll thank me!

May 1, 2016May 3, 2016

Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon – Louisville, KY (April 30, 2016)

Me running toward the finish line of the Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon (in the rain, but still smiling) - Louisville, KY — Me running toward the finish line of the Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon (in the rain, but still smiling) – Louisville, KY

Race: Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon

Place: Louisville, Kentucky

Date: April 30, 2016

Time: 1:41:18

You know…the week and morning I had leading into the Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon was one that pointed to not running it at all. On Monday morning, I had an unexpected Great Cat Chase with my neighbors cat, which I was catsitting while they were at the beach. I love this cat, but that morning I was running late to my spin class and she slipped outside and just took off. I ended up having to wake my roommate up to find her while I went to spin. Since she is not my cat, I felt horrible not having her back inside while I wasn’t home. She behaved the rest of the week though and we had good purr sessions. Tuesday…my coffeemaker died. MY COFFEEMAKER DIED!! Do you know what that means??!! It meant that I had NO caffeine fix that morning. And after hitting up the gym, I begged my roommate for some Starbucks. She came through, with a tall sugar free cafe misto with coconut milk for me. She saved the day. Then…on Thursday…my Garmin died. I woke up to it having a blank screen and not turning on. I went on my 4 mile run sans-Garmin running watch. I was feeling pretty hated by technology at that point. One of the race ambassadors, and a friend of mine, Melissa, said that she had purchased an extra Garmin watch and that I could have it if I wanted it. OMG…that was the sweetest thing anyone has done for me.

Anyway…that was leading up to race day. I went to the race expo on Thursday night, and one of the first people I see is sweet Melissa. I gave her a hug and we lamented about the weather. I joked about carrying shampoo and body wash with me so as I head into the finish, I could just lather up, wash down, and look and smell immaculate at the finish. After chatting and wishing each other luck, I went over to the table to pick up my race packet.

The infamous receiving the race bib shot at the expo. We were going to pose, but Cathy took the picture already! — Picking up my race bib from the nice volunteers at the expo! This was supposed to be posed, but Cathy snapped it candid.

This was funny…kinda. I listed off my bib number (937A) to the lady at the table. She asked for my ID…which I had to fish out. Cathy was poised with her camera to take a picture, which the nice volunteer noticed. So she had a plan to pose and everything, but before we could carry out the plan, Ninja Cathy already snapped the photo. The lady asked if she was ready to take the shot and Cathy said, “I already did.” We all laughed a little. I happily took my bib and the big plastic bag of stuff (including a full box of Cold-Eez) and went to retrieve the garishly bright yellow race shirt. I love bright shirts. What I don’t love on this shirt is the actual design. I loved the map route on the medal this year, but it didn’t transfer well over to the screen print on the shirt. Ah well. It’s another race/running shirt to add to my already full closet. I’ll take it. After that, we walked through the various booths at the expo. I was on the hunt for a Garmin at this point…but no one had any. I did purchase some new Bondi Bands (YAY!) and got to see my friend Daniel working at one of the booths. He was handing out free magnet things and I went to get one and he said, “Except for you…you have to pay for yours.” I love my friends. I also ran into my physical therapist, Katie, who was working an Alter-G treadmill. AH. I want to get on one of these SO bad. Needless to say, she messaged me after the race on Saturday morning and said I should come into the office and try it out. I’m SO taking her up on that. We wrapped up the expo and headed home for a late dinner and to settle in before the craziness of Friday at the office.

My Gluten Free & Vegan Veggie Pizza from Annie May's Sweet Cafe! Yes...it was as delicious as it looks. — My delicious Gluten Free & Vegan Veggie Pizza from Annie May’s Sweet Cafe

Friday night is the night before the race…so I pulled a Gluten Free & Vegan Veggie Pizza from Annie May’s Sweet Cafe out of my freezer. I don’t risk anything the night before a race. I knew I’d be fine eating this. And it was delicious and amazing. I rested that night, foam rolled, and went to bed around 9:30 p.m. I set an early alarm to get up and do all my PT exercises, my dynamic warm-up and to get an early start on my mileage.

I was scheduled for 16 miles this weekend. Which was one reason I signed up for the Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon. Why not run 13 miles with people and get a medal at the end of it, right? That being said, I went out that morning before the race and ran a slow, steady 3 miles. I came back home, ate my breakfast and got dressed into some (unflattering) running shorts, a light singlet, and my compression sleeves and running socks (I went with the Injinji toe socks to help prevent any blistering should rain kick in as scheduled). I had debated wearing my favorite running shoes (my Newton Distance III) and opted to wear my Nike Free RN Distance shoes, which I have never worn over a 10K mileage, but I’d rather let rain destroy those than my Newtons. So…I figured this would be interesting regardless. That being said and done, I brushed my teeth gathered up my change of clothes for afterwards, got all the running gear out and ready to go…and headed out the door.

This is me, trying not to stress as I hook on my hydration belt and get ready to book it to the start line since I was running VERY late to this race. — This is what a runner who is running late to a race looks like. I’m trying to walk and snap on my hydration belt.

No joke, my roommate and I were down the road at a stoplight and I went…”I forgot to put on my wings anklet my mom gave me.” So…this is a thing now. Ever since I’ve returned to running, when I race, this anklet has been around my ankle. My mom got it for me because she said, “You don’t run, baby, you fly.” So, when I was finally able to get back out there to run and race…this anklet has been kept on my ankle. I feel like it’s carrying my mom’s words with me on each run. So, yeah…we turned around and I dashed back inside and grabbed the anklet. Back off we went…and I clasped the anklet on and felt better about life. We got back down the road to the stop light and Cathy started cussing and went to turn around. I was like, “WHAT??!” And she said, “We forgot the most important thing for today…” I was so confused. “What?” She said…”YOUR RACE BIB.” Oh…my…God. I felt like such a newbie, LOL!! We turned around and went back to the apartment. I was now a mess because we were running way late, still had to cross the bridge, still had to park, and had to get to the corrals for the start. I was supposed to meet up with my dear friend, Deana, to run with her, so I was texting her and telling her I had to go back to my apartment a few times and was just NOW getting underway. UGH. I was planning on napping on the way to the race, but it was now 7 a.m., 30 minutes before the start, and I now had to eat my banana. I was a mess now…feeling very stressed and rushed. I do NOT like getting to a race in this state. The parking garage Cathy wanted to park in was not accessible as they had closed the road getting to it. So, now we’re driving in circles looking for a place to park. She finally found a place…and paid only $5 to park there. We were shocked the price was so cheap! We got parked…and she grabbed the poncho I loaned her (it’s my super nice lined one from the NYC Marathon) and we headed down the stairs to the start. I tossed my banana peel and started to walk swiftly toward the start line. I got there with only moments to spare. No joke. We took a quick picture in front of the start line, I shed the poncho (it wasn’t raining yet) and ducked into my corral. I was so stressed and upset that I wasn’t going to be able to find Deana…and just as I found a place to stand…the gun went off…and we were off and running.

The morning was humid, but I felt good as I crossed the start line. I saw Cathy and gave a wave as I headed out for the first mile. I was determined to just keep it comfortable because I wasn’t here to race this half marathon. I was here just to run it. I fell into pace and headed down the long stretch of Main Street. It was crowded but I didn’t have to do too much bobbing and weaving, which is always appreciated. I felt good and blasted through the first 2 miles, making an easy turn onto 20th street. The pace remained relaxed for me, and I felt like I was pushing a little, but not hard, which I figured was fine for a girl who already ran 3 miles before the race. The course was a little less populated by spectators due to the impending weather. It was nice to have the scattered people out clapping and cheering though. At least this is a beautiful city to run, right?

Me heading out for the start of the Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon - Louisville, KY — Me heading out for the start of the Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon – Louisville, KY

I ran the full marathon back in 2014, pacing a friend of mine, and somehow forgot about much of this course. For some reason, I thought we ran through Churchill Downs around mile 6, so I was really looking forward to that. At Mile 6, I was heading down Magnolia Avenue and turning back onto 4th street. Churchill Downs was nowhere in sight. I was so confused!! But, I just kept going. I knew my running buddy, Tammy, said she was going to be out near Churchill Downs, so I kept an eye out for her…because I was certain it was coming up. Two miles later, I saw Tammy and made the turn to run into Churchill Downs. 8 miles down and now was one of my favorite parts of the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and Mini Marathon…the lap through Churchill Downs. Down the tunnel and back up…and then it was time to run around the infield. Normally horses are out, but the weather was gearing up to start raining and none of the horses were out running or training. So, that was a bit of a bummer. Ah well…then…back out through a different tunnel…up…and out of Churchill Downs. Just up the way is the infamous split. Mini Marathon runners go left…and Marathon runners go right (and start making their way to the hills of Iroquois Park). I turned left this time…heading into the last 5 miles of the Mini Marathon. 9 miles down…and soon…came the rain.

I had been silently cussing the fact that I wore a hat (I hate wearing hats when I race) and my Nikes instead of my Newtons…until this point. The rain, at first, was a light drizzle. It actually felt good. It was around Mile 10 when my friend Dan came up beside me and said “Hi” to me. I asked how he was doing, and he said he was starting to hurt (he ran Boston), and I wished him luck as he pulled up ahead. With the new front of weather, the hip started to get tight and I was feeling it now. The rain picked up a little more as I made it to the 11th mile marker. Two more to go. That was my mantra. Just two more to go. The stretch of 3rd Street was lined with few spectators…up until we hit the downtown area. Around Mile 12…the crowds picked up. People were shouting encouragement. And I made the turn onto Market Street. I could hear the announcer at the finish line, so I knew I was getting close. But that small stretch before making the turn toward the finish line felt like it went on forever. But I finally made the turn and pushed it as much as my tired legs could manage to hit that finish line. I saw Cathy just before crossing and she was just screaming. I heard my name get announced and I threw up my arms in victory and was all smiles at the end. My friend Daniel, who headed up the training program I went out with every Saturday, was there and he came over to high five me. That was the best part of the finish, right there. That high five meant the world to me.

I kept moving through the chute, got my Mylar wrap and my medal. And then I continued on for some water. I got an official finish picture taken and then continued on toward the Family Reunion Area…where I spotted Cathy on the edge of the fence-line…just waiting for me. I came up to her and she gave me my official time. I took 2 minutes (somehow) off my NYC Half Marathon Time and actually turned in my 4th fastest half marathon. I was shocked. I passed off the snacks I snagged on the way to the meeting point and did a few leg swings to help loosen up the hip some. After that, I was ready to get out of my wet clothes, get some coffee, and grab some actual food. So we left and did just that.

16.17 miles done that day!! And 13.1 of them were done in racing conditions. I never really felt like I was racing though, which speaks highly of my fitness levels. Given that I had to take a forced year off, this makes me feel really good as I come back from this hip thing.

Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon...DONE! I was soaked...but so happy with the way things turned out. — Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon…DONE! – Louisville, KY

So, the official results of the Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon are that I finished in 1:41:18. I was 468/10,422 finishers overall. I was 95/6,209 female finishers. And I was 20/972 finishers in my division. I started this race under stress and a feeling more than a little flustered. I didn’t get to meet up with Deana as planned, but she and I texted pretty much most of the afternoon after she finished. We’re already making plans to train together for something bigger and better…and I couldn’t be more excited about this. My pace slowed at the end of this run, I think due to the weather and the fact that I ran ahead of the race. Next time, I’ll just count the race as my run. Regardless, this was my 17th half marathon I’ve run and my 4th fastest. Which…is super exciting given the challenges I have faced the past year. I am starting to not only regain confidence, but an easy, fast pace while racing too! I sort of needed this finish. I only wish I had felt stronger at the end of it.

I want to thank everyone who I met through the Norton Training Group (those who were race ambassadors, helping to run the group, and the runners themselves)!! I have some new running and, hopefully, lifelong friends who went through a rigorous training regimen and ran hills and did speed work and gave up their Saturday mornings just to train hard for this day. To everyone who finished…and to those who couldn’t…I am proud of all of you and am so happy to have met you.

I can’t wait to run with you more.

April 26, 2016

The Good, The Bad, and the Hard Decisions

grandmasmarathon Just a quick little catch-up on what’s been going on in my world…

The Good:

I raced really well on Friday at the Pro.Active For Life 5K in Frankfort, Kentucky. For the first time in a long time, I ran without any pain. None. And I pushed my fastest mile yet (it’s always the first. Negative splits!? HA! I bring the best Positive splits!). That following morning, I woke to do my PT exercises and dynamic warm-up before heading out around my area for a solo 20 miler. This went…surprisingly well. Like…another run (and much longer) without any pain. This is progress.

I had said that the result of my 20 mile run (which I had to do alone as everyone I run with is (1) Recovering from the Boston Marathon; (2) Tapering for the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and/or Mini Marathon; or (3) Tapering for the Flying Pig Marathon) would determine whether or not I go ahead with my plan to run Grandma’s Marathon up in Duluth, MN. This is my grandpa’s favorite marathon and he speaks highly of it. That’s why I wanted to do it. And I signed up for it…not really knowing how I would be doing at that point, but figured I’d be in good shape.

And…for the most part I am. But the window for bib transfer ends on May 1, and I would not have time to attempt another long 20+ mile run before then. While I came out of this one in good form and shape, there was no guarantee that the next one would tell the same story.

The Bad:

Stress. Pressure. Not all related to running. It sort of just wears you down. And by the time Monday morning rolled around, I was feeling more than a little stressed. The window of opportunity for any sort of bib transfer for Grandma’s Marathon closed in just over a week, so time was short. And it was at that point, on a rest/cross-training day, that I made my final decision…

The Hard Decisions:

I opted to transfer my race bib and not run Grandma’s Marathon this year. It was not at all an easy decision to come to. I felt good. No pain. I have been having some great running moments as of late. I’ve become physically and mentally tough. But…I’m not mentally prepared for the chance that on the morning of the marathon, I may not feel 90-100%. I could hurt like hell. And I both physically and mentally can NOT handle another marathon turning into the death march that was my Boston Marathon. I made the decision early…while eating breakfast…before even heading out to what turned into a high stress day at the office. I can’t handle further setbacks like the year I had last year. If anything, the hip labrum injury has made me a more cautious and smarter runner. Maybe too cautious. Because, it was pointed out I could run 20 miles and walk 6 of this marathon…but I couldn’t fathom doing that. I know not every run will be good, but without the opportunity to throw down another 20+ mile run before the window for bib transfer closed…I decided to err on the side of caution and go back another year. Hopefully next year.

When I’ll be a bit more prepared.

When I’ll mentally be in a better place with my running.

I cried over it…a few times that day. That being said, while it wasn’t an easy decision…it was the right decision.

I don’t know how many marathons I have left in this body…so when I choose to run one, I want to give it my all. And it was just too soon to demand that of my body in mid-June. But, this means I can put all my focus and training on my September race instead. And I’m okay with that.

Mostly.

No…I am.

April 24, 2016

Working Hard for a Weekend of Hard Work

Ah, it’s Sunday. A day to rest and relax right? RIGHT?!

HA…never!! Today, I’ve done countless loads of laundry, prepped and cooked all the meals for the coming week, took recycle to the store, took care of a cat, did some necessary shopping, mailed off a package, finished up (much-needed) grocery shopping, organized the pantry, and polished off a book. I’ve blogged on my race on Friday night, made up lunches/snacks for tomorrow, and have even changed sheets on the bed. And showered. Important.

This has been a chaotic and crazy week. I got back into town from a relaxing (ie: NON-RACE) weekend in Orlando, Florida. Sure, the Star Wars Half Marathon was running at Disney World that very weekend…but I was not quick enough on making a decision to run, and by the time I was certain I was going to be able to do it, registration had closed. Instead, the day before I headed out to get to Florida, I did my long run. On a Tuesday night. On tired legs. But it was done and I didn’t have to do it alone…or in Orlando, where I had no idea where I could safely and effectively go running. As it was, I found a park where I managed 5 miles, and I did 5 miles back and forth on this 0.20 mile boardwalk on Cocoa Beach while I was away. But that was it for the running. The rest of the time I was exploring…but we’ll get to that momentarily.

With a couple of days away from the office, I was overloaded with work, so I ended up doing something I hate doing. I brought work home and put in some time away from the office. It had to be done…or I’d still be buried. This made my week even more stressful because I was trying to fit in all my normal stuff while having to do some work at home. It meant…the normalcy took a lot longer to get around to. And grocery shopping never happened. So, my roommate and I were living out of the pantry/freezer/fridge for this week.

So…with all that being said…some good stuff has been going down these past two weeks…so let’s take a look at some of the highlights!

1. Universal Studios Florida

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It’s Marvel Superheroes, it’s Harry Potter, it’s rides, rides, rides. And I had an absolute blast. I met Captain America (he told me I had beautiful green eyes!), which had to happen as he is the favorite superhero of my nephew, Chace. I flirted with the driver of the Knight Bus at Diagon Alley in Universal as well. SO MUCH FUN. That being said, I vastly prefer Disney to Universal, but it was actually nice to step away from the Disney monster and do something I’ve been wanting to do, but couldn’t pull myself away from Disney. HA! And thank goodness for my friend, Jenn, who was willing to go on the thrill rides with me. Cathy refuses. She’s a big baby. OH…and I bought a wand. I have my own Harry Potter type of wand. It’s Ivy…with a Unicorn Hair core. And I loved it because I was able to cast magical spells at both of the Harry Potter lands at each Universal Studios theme park in Florida. It takes so little to make me happy.

2. Toasted

Eating out with me can be…difficult at times. Thank you Celiac disease and lactose intolerance. That being said, while I was in Orlando, thanks to my Find Me Gluten Free app, I found the most perfect place to dine. In fact, we (Jenn, Cathy & myself) ended up having dinner there three times. The place is called Toasted, and it specializes in Crafted Grilled Cheese & Burgers. And…they have gluten-free buns, bread, and veggie burgers. They also have vegan cheese. This…was my happy place. To top all of that off…they had gluten-free fries. And, let me tell you, the Truffle Oil & Rosemary fries were to die for. We learned, after our first visit, that one order of fries would do for the three of us. Amazing sandwiches. I had a different one each night…never got sick. Let’s hear it for gluten-free dining done right. If you find yourself in the Winter Park area of Orlando…go and check them out.

3. Gluten Free Snack Cakes

Okay…I admit it. I love my desserts. I have tried, for ages, to give them up. But the sweet tooth reigns supreme. For sure. And, after getting my roommate a little tipsy on her birthday, I took her grocery shopping. And bought a bunch of stuff I didn’t need but wanted to try. And, despite trying to be a little better about my choices…I discovered a new product from Schär‘s Sch’nacks! These delightful little treats are simply a gluten-free, unrolled version of a Swiss Roll. They are little single serve cakes that are filled with cream and dipped in German chocolate. And they are light, and amazing. I have to resist buying them too often…but a treat every now and again is always fine. There are 10 cakes per package…and I only have one after dinner each night. Seriously…a worthy investment for an every-now-and-again treat. Back to some fruits and vegan yogurts after this. And I’m back to cooking real food…and not just living out of the fridge/freezer/pantry…which is also a plus.

4. Road Bike Shoes

Today, I meandered over to Schwinn in Clarksville, Indiana, and purchased a pair of road bike shoes. Now that I have a road bike, I figured I needed to get the clip-in shoes so I could ride it. They are very nice at Schwinn and even discounted the price of the shoes and put the cleats in for me. YAY!! I hope to get fitted to my bike next weekend, time permitting! Crossing my fingers. Then, I get to practice clipping in and out…and probably taking a few spills during said process. It’s actually…kind of exciting. Not the falling part, but getting the necessary gear and stuff done to get out onto my bike.

5. Running my fastest mile at my favorite 5K

Tim, Ruth, Amber, Becca, Me, and Linda after the Pro.Active For Life 5K…all sporting our bling!

My Garmin says this is the fastest mile I have ever run!!

Friday was not only Earth Day, it was the running of the Pro.Active For Life 5K in Frankfort, Kentucky. I go to Frankfort quite often for the races, and while 5K races are one of my least favorite distances, this just happens to be my favorite 5K race. It’s not just the race itself, but the people. Frankfort, honestly, some of the best people in that running community. I can’t say it enough. Not only did I win my age division this year, but I pulled off a 6:53 mile. Shocking myself. Even more shocking…the entire run was pain-free. And…I was only 6 seconds off my PR (also set at this race). Stronger every day. Trying to be really smart when it comes to my training.

6. A long, solo, pain-free Saturday morning run

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So, Friday night I churn out a speedy 5K (even if my finishing picture looks like I’m just cruising, LOL!), knowing that Saturday, I was on my own for my longest run since…forever. I am signed up for (although still not 100% sure I’ll be running) a marathon in June. Bib transfer can only happen through May 1, leaving this Saturday the only chance I had for attempting a long marathon-training type run. And, I had to do it solo, as everyone I know is either recovering from Boston, running Big Sur, running London, running Derby or running Flying Pig. So, they are either recovering, out of town, or tapering. So, Saturday morning, I laced up, still feeling good, and went out for 20 miles in my area. No crossing the river (it was Thunder Over Louisville day anyway…so this was probably better in the long run…ha…I made a punny). So, I just sort of went. I never pushed my pace…I ran comfortably and just sort of made the route up. The last 5 miles, however, I decided to make the toughest. I don’t know why. I’m sadistic like that. So I hit up the Fast Freddie route…which is HILLS FOR DAYS!…and came out of it better than I even expected. Once again…no pain. And 20 miles done. Alone. And way better than I dreamed. WITHOUT ANY PAIN! I spent the rest of the day out and about, doing some grocery shopping and regular shopping and eating good food for recovery and fuel. This…was the type of run I mentally needed. And while it does make me feel better, I still don’t know if I’ll run in June. I’m pondering for one more day before making that call.

7. Game Of Thrones

The new season of GoT starts tonight, and unlike last year, I’m set. HBO Now was downloaded this morning and I’m set to watch this season as it airs, instead of getting spoiled. I know I read the books, but the show has gone away from how the books actually worked out, so it’s nice that I won’t have to attempt (and fail) to avoid spoilers this time around. It’s the little things in life. SO…YAY!! It’s the little things in life…like Season 6 of Game of Thrones.

8. Caramelized Honey Latte at Starbucks

They keep selling out of it, but when I went to Florida this past week, I was introduced to Starbucks latest (and greatest) drink. It’s the Caramelized Honey Latte and it is AMAZING. It reminds me a lot of The Bee Sting, one of Ha Coffee’s signature drinks in Kauai (I miss Hawaii!). I get mine with coconut milk and it is…OMG…to die for. I had it hot and iced while in Florida. The Starbucks at Universal Studios City Walk sold out of them…and the one here in our local Target sold out too. I think this drink is quite popular. And it should be. It is made of super YUM!! If you haven’t tried it…RUN, do NOT WALK, to Starbucks and give it a try. You’ll thank me for it.

So, there are some of the highlights these past couple of weeks. Here’s to hoping for a bit more relaxed and easier week ahead. And I hope everyone had a great week and enjoyed a beautiful weekend. And for anyone racing this coming weekend…good luck!!

April 24, 2016

Pro.Active For Life 5K – Frankfort, KY (April 22, 2016)

13072889_10208590336651211_5934741618733470139_o — Me crossing the finish line of the Pro.Active For Life 5K – Frankfort, Kentucky (I admit, it looks like I’m just casually coming through, LOL!)

Race: Pro.Active For Life 5K

Place: Frankfort, Kentucky

Date: April 22, 2016

Time: 22:07

It’s that time of year. Normally, this would be the 2nd race of the Frankfort Trifecta Run/Walk series…but there is no longer a Frankfort Trifecta. But that doesn’t mean that I’m not going to do some of my favorite races in one of my favorite cities to run.

Why is it my favorite? THE PEOPLE!!

The runners in the Frankfort, Kentucky community are awesome. Seriously, some of the most welcoming, nicest people I have ever met in my life. I have met and made so many great friends there…ongoing friendships…since a few years ago when I started making the trek from Louisville to Frankfort for the race series.

That being said…we all know how I feel about 5K races. Well, this is a 5K race I never, ever, would dream of missing (I had to last year…it ran while I was in Boston). While 5K races are one of my least favorite distances (I am NOT a sprinter), they are valuable to being a well-rounded runner. Speedwork…my enemy. HA!

I was a bit more prepared to make the trek to Frankfort this Friday evening rather than how I was for the Run For The Gold 3K on St. Patrick’s Day. I bought my dinner the night before (vegetarian sushi) and had a drink ready. No stopping. Clock out at work (already changed for the race) and head that way. We actually made decent time. We parked in the same place we always do for Frankfort races and made the walk to McClure Building, where packet pickup is always held. At least this race has everything in their normal spot and routine. I wasn’t as confused (or as rushed) as I was for Run For The Gold when it came to packet pickup…so that was less stress. I had my little bag with my race shirt and bib in a matter of moments. I got pinned up and then put my name in for some door prizes. I don’t think I won any of them…I had to leave before that even happened. But, it was fun. After that, I stepped outside and walked over to the Earth Day festivities happening on the lawn of the Old State Capitol. And I did a lot of people watching. I met up with Linda and we chatted and she showed me pictures from the Blue Ridge Half Marathon that she did in Roanoke, VA. LOVED it. She said it was one of the toughest half marathons she has run. And she does Run The Bluegrass. HA. The incline and hill they climb at the start…INSANE! She went to go and roll out her calf muscles prior to race start and I wandered around for a few more minutes. And then…people started to line up. It was almost go-time!

I wandered up to stand between the 6 minute mile and the 8 minute mile groups. I figured that was as good a spot for me as any. Linda and Becca came over to stand with me, which was nice. Linda was still hurting from her race the weekend before and Becca wasn’t feeling good and hadn’t eaten anything all day…so she was running on empty. And me…I was mentally prepping for a long run the following morning…which I wasn’t sure how that would go after a 5K race. We were all quite the team. They rope across the front was moved out of the way and we all moved up. And then…the gun was fired and we were off!

Now, the first mile of this race is a good one. But there is 1-1/2 hills to climb and one of them is short, but quite steep. I was behind both Becca and Linda here up until around Mile 1. The three of us all ran in tandom for a moment, which was quite fun. Linda was struggling, I could tell. She looked at me and said that there were only 4 women ahead of me. I broke the pack and moved ahead.

This…just happened to be the fastest mile I ever ran. I just wasn’t aware of it at that point.

Mile 2 takes you up Capital Avenue, around the Capital building and…finally…back down a hill. My legs were feeling that first mile but I pressed on. To my surprise…I wasn’t hurting. Not yet. That was nice. Sort of lifted my spirits more than a little. After coming back down…there is a slight incline as you cross a bridge…where there is always a cluster of people cheering and the walkers coming the other way…all cheering you on. It’s one of my favorite points of any Frankfort race involving this corner. Back down the steep hill and down a long road to start making the final turns toward the finish line.

On the last turn, a woman was handing out popsicles of something. I never grab anything from race corners, but it was nice on a 65 degree evening. Some people did snag them, only to toss them aside in the final stretch. It was just a short climb up the ramp and straight on to the finish line. I had no idea where I was in the standings…I just knew my legs were ready to be done. I heard Cathy screaming at me and I just pushed and ran as hard as I could manage and crossed the line.

The course was about 0.06 miles short. It was close. But it seems like everyone was coming up just slightly short at the end. Ah well. Another (almost) 5K…DONE! My watch told me I had done it in 22:06…which was a nice surprise as I went to save it to my watch. Wow. That was actually very close to my PR time, which is from this race. No joke.

Soon after I finished in came Linda and Becca. Linda was limping. NO GOOD! She said her calf muscle cramped up so she had to slow and then she had to walk some. She still managed first in her age division though. So…badass. Becca won her age division as well. Let’s here it for a repeat from the Run For The Gold! YAY!! Linda went to get ice and I had to go and do my plyometrics that my physical therapist assigned me for after I ran. I told Cathy that I wasn’t hurting at all and I did all the jumping exercises and the leg swings. The forward leg swing with the right leg usually is an issue. It wasn’t this time. I felt incredibly blessed.

Me with my first place age division award at the Pro.Active For Life 5K - Frankfort, Kentucky — Me with my first place age division award at the Pro.Active For Life 5K – Frankfort, Kentucky

To keep me feeling good, we started walking around the area while we waited on the awards ceremony. I placed first in my age division, so I was one of the lucky recipients of one of the custom made medals for the different age division winners and the first timer awards. This made me incredibly happy because I had been saying I wanted one, but had been having some bad runs lately and this was a race. That being said…I was handed one at the award ceremony.

I stuck around to cheer for Becca and for Linda…and then Tim as well. Tim is another one of Linda’s runners (she’s an amazing coach) who hit a new PR at this race. YAY!! We took a big group photo at the end before I headed out to get home. It was getting late and I had a long, long run to do the following morning.

So, the official results of the Pro.Active For Life 5K are that I finished in 22:07, just shy of the PR I set there in 2013 (when I was in my best running shape and form). I was 22/630 finishers overall. I was 4/422 female finishers. And, I was 1/45 in my age division. For the record, my first mile was done in 6:53. After that, I was back to the mid-7 minute mile times. It would be so nice to one day be able to hold a sub-7 minute mile, but I don’t think that’s going to happen any time soon. And that’s fine. The whole thing that made this race my happy place was that at no point did I hurt. Not once. So, it might have been a fly-and-die (although, my 3rd mile was faster than my 2nd mile), I consider it a total win when I come out of any run pain free.

SO HAPPY!

It’s weird not having the Frankfort Trifecta to train for, but being able to take part in the races that made that series so great has been very rewarding for me this year. I had to skip last year, but coming back to it this year, I have taken nothing for granted. Not the hills, not the courses, and definitely…not the people who have seen me through it all.

Frankfort…thank you…for always being so wonderful and welcoming…and fun! I can’t wait to come back for the next one!

April 22, 2016April 22, 2016

Reflections of a Recovering Runner

comeback01 Slow. Weak. Broken. Scared.

These are the words that describe me when it comes to prepping for and going out for any sort of run. Whether it’s a race or a training run…or just an easy fun run to shake off a bad day or a extended period sitting…or even just an excuse to stretch the legs. I feel like my mind has to work overtime anymore for fear of, frankly, damaging myself again.

Where once I would have used words like…Confident. Strong. Fast. Free…to describe myself as a runner, I can’t seem to see that anymore in my running, my reflection, my ability.

Every run…is a mental and physical struggle for me. I have to think about everything and still attempt to run…well.

Note the phrasing…attempt to run well.

Because every step I take on a run, I have to listen to the signals my body is sending me. Does my hip hurt? If so, is it because of speed…or incline…or form? If so, am I overcompensating with the other leg? Does anything else hurt. Are my feet falling quickly and softly. Is my cadence even? Am I leaning back? Am I heel striking?

It sort of takes the joy out of lacing up those shoes and going out. PLUS…before I even get started, I have about 30 minutes of necessary PT exercises and warm-ups, and those are usually a good gauge as to how any sort of run is going to feel. If my leg lifts hurt…you better believe my run is going to hurt. And then the brain starts working overtime, doubting myself, thinking I’m just going to end up sidelined again. Wondering…is it all really worth it? What happens when the activity that you used to do so easily, freely, and with so much joy…mentally and physically drains you?

You press on! Or at least, that’s what I do.

When it was bitterly cold, when there was snow, when it rains…I’m out on that sidewalk in front of my apartment doing all the plyometrics and warm-up exercises that my physical therapist assigned me. Why? Because taking another year off to recover from injury doesn’t sound appealing at all. In fact, it scares me. I have gone through a year of hardships, trials, and a lot of pain…and my journey is not over yet. That being said, I’m not one to give up either.

What brings this up? Well…tomorrow is one of my favorite races to participate in. I had to miss it last year as I was…running the Boston Marathon. Injured. So, I would have had to miss it regardless…but…I have a history with this little 5K.

The Pro.Active For Life 5K is in its 10th year running. And I have run it in 2012, 2013, and 2014. In each one…I have placed in my age division and/or as one of the top 3 female finishers. And…it is my PR 5K race.

And tomorrow, for the first time, I’m actually nervous about going to Frankfort after work to run in this race. And it’s simply because…every run is day-to-day. I feel good some days; I hurt some days. There is no rhyme or reason to it. And there are a lot of amazing, skilled, fast, and mad talented runners in Frankfort and at this race. My legs are still weak from a year off…the hill repeats sometimes making me feel strong, and sometimes making my legs scream at me and my hip hate me for the next 3 days. My speed…is not consistent. My legs tire easily…or just refuse to power me through some runs. Yes…even short ones. And especially sprints…and I’ve never been a sprinter.

And all of this has been rolling around in my head this entire week since getting back from Florida. I am not afraid of not placing or setting a new PR. I don’t care about that. I’m afraid of letting myself down. I hold myself up to a certain level and expect a lot of myself…especially at races I’ve always performed well in. But…it just seems daunting and impossible these days. Because. my mind races through that checklist EVERY. SINGLE. RUN.

I have to work harder than before to run. I have to work harder than most to be able to run. My body, literally, is not made for it. But I’m not letting it stop me. I am a work in progress, for sure. And it’s hard…and I know it’s possible that I may not get stronger, or better, or even faster…but I’m not going to stop trying.

I’m also scared going into tomorrow evening because I have a rather long run planned for Saturday morning…and I’m doing it solo…because people are recovering from Boston, or tapering for Derby or Flying Pig. And that scares me too. I worry about pushing too hard in the 5K and not being able to do my run on Saturday. And, sadly, the run on Saturday is the more important of the two. And this has been my struggle, my concerns, and my fears/worries since…well…I started running again. But, it’s been weighing heavy on me for this entire week leading into tomorrow night.

I have lost a lot of confidence in myself. I know that. And I have lost strength, fitness, and speed. But I have not lost my drive. Running may feel harder…because, these days running is harder.

But I can’t stop. And I won’t stop.

It’s okay to be scared…but I can’t let it take control.

This is my comeback. It’s slow. But it’s progress. And for now, progress is all I can ask for. The rest will…hopefully…fall into place.

April 18, 2016

Restaurant Review: Mythos Restaurant, Orlando, Florida

090 — Mythos Restaurant, Orlando, Florida

Restaurant: Mythos Restaurant, Orlando, Florida

Twas the first time since coming to Orlando that my breakfast (the final bagel, it was cinnamon raisin from Erin McKenna’s in Disney Springs) wore off long before I thought it would. That usually is okay, except my dinner reservation yesterday was actually a late lunch reservation. So, when my stomach apparently wanted elevensies…I was nowhere ready to pop a protein bar for fear of not being hungry for the best and big meal of the day.

Cathy, Jenn and I all shared a cup of watermelon and hoped for the best…but the 12:45 reservation couldn’t come soon enough. At 12:30, we went in, hoping that perhaps they could seat us early.

No such luck. We were told our names would be called around our reservation time. I wasn’t too surprised though. Mythos Restaurant, after all, is one of the hottest and most sought over reservations in all of Universal Studios Islands of Adventures theme park. No joke. Mythos Restaurant was voted the Best Theme Park Restaurant from 2003-2009, came in third in 2010…and who knows what happened after that. The thing was…the place was hopping. There was a 35 minute wait for people/groups that didn’t make reservations…and that wait time quickly escalated.

What makes Mythos Restaurant such hot spot? Well, it’s located in a prime spot, carved into the side of towering rock formations, cascading waterfalls and ancient figures. So, you sort of know you’re in for quite a treat as you approach the restaurant itself. It is known for its exceptional cuisine. And the setting and friendly staff do make for an exceptional, contemporary dining setting.

About 12:55, we were finally called for our seating and led through the restaurant to a nice corner booth near the open kitchen. I sat on the side facing the kitchen with hopes of being able to watch the chefs, but the booth was too tall for me to really see. Ah well.

Our server, Lindsey, was an absolute doll. And totally hilarious. I loved that she immediately made us feel welcome by calling us “her friends.” That continued throughout the entire meal, mind you. I love making new friends. Anyway, it took her a moment to come back around to us, but she eventually got there and made us feel immediately welcome all over again. She asked about where we were from, what all we had been doing, and through in some fun Harry Potter references, because she’s awesome like that. She took our drink order…a Diet Coke ($3.19) for Cathy, a Unsweetend Iced Tea ($3.19) for me, and Water (FREE!) for Jenn. We were given some time to look over the menu, which had clear markings for things that could be made vegan and gluten free…not always the same, but some dishes could be both. This left me with two very good sounding options…the Pad Thai and/or the Seasonal Risotto. AH…decisions!!

After a spill that Lindsey had to clean up, she came over to the table again to get our orders. She apologized for the delay and since I was the difficult one, she started with me. I asked her which she would get if she was a vegetarian and gluten free…and she said that most vegan and gluten-free guests LOVE the risotto, but she is a huge fan of the Pad Thai for that sweet and sour sauce they put on it…that being said, she pairs it with meat and wasn’t sure how it would mix with just vegetables. So, she highly recommended the Seasonal Risotto. I went with that per her suggestion. Cathy went with the Mythos Signature Burger with Lamb and the Parmesan Fries. Jenn went with the Crab Cake Sliders, subbing the potato salad for the Parmesan Fries. Orders in.

094 — Mythos Restaurant’s Gluten Free Bread (cut up gluten free hamburger buns)

It took awhile for our meals to come out, which was fine. I was starving, but I love knowing that food is being prepared to order. In fact, Lindsey explained that everything, save for two (2) of the dishes on the menu are made to order. The two that are prepped ahead are the Mediterranean Chicken Salad Wrap and the Pressed Porchetta Panini, due to the volume of orders they get for those. Interesting trivia. She delivered some bread and butter to the table…and then said that they had some gluten-free bread if I was interested. I always am. She returned a few minutes later with some warm bread…which looked like their gluten free hamburger buns chopped up. Hey…it worked. I loved having the option.

But food came out, hot, fresh, gorgeous, and…amazing.

Mythos Restaurant's Signature Burger with Lamb and Parmesan Fries — Mythos Restaurant’s Signature Burger with Lamb and Parmesan Fries

Cathy’s Mythos Signature Burger with Lamb ($14.99) with the Parmesan Fries (+ $0.50) looked fantastic and perfectly cooked. The bun was huge, encompassing the burger and all the toppings that came on it. This included grilled onion, shredded lettuce and fresh tomato topped with feta-olive aioli. She was nervous about the feta-olive aioli, but loved it. She found the burger to be a little dry (NOT LAMB!), but it was well cooked and full of flavor. While the patty was thick, it was way smaller than the bun. To this day, though, she raves about the “killer” feta-olive aioli. She almost missed out on it as she doesn’t love olives at all…but it worked. And now, I think she’s smitten. She ate every bit of that burger. And the Parmesan fries were “good.” she said. The cheese, both of my dining compatriots said, needed to be melted so that they stuck to the fries rather than just sprinkled on top. Otherwise, the cheese fell off the fries.

Jenn’s Crab Cake Sliders ($12.99) dish was her favorite meal of this entire trip. Nothing overpowered the taste of the crab. It wasn’t overseasoned. The remoulade sauce wasn’t drowning the sliders…they had the perfect amount. While the buns were thick, they were soft and squished down. She absolutely LOVED this meal. Like I said, of the 4 days we have been in Florida, this topped her list. The Crab Cake Sliders were served on mini rolls with lettuce and remoulade sauce. She subbed the Potato Salad for the Parmesan Fries (+ $0.50) and liked them, but also felt that the cheese needed to be melted on there so it didn’t just tumble off, leaving regular fries. She didn’t touch the watermelon-tomato medley that was served on the side…it was probably delicious though!

Mythos Restaurant's Gluten Free and Vegan Seasonal Risotto (beet risotto with sauteed mushrooms and spinach) — Mythos Restaurant’s Gluten Free and Vegan Seasonal Risotto (beet risotto with sauteed mushrooms and spinach)

This comes to me. I ended up ordering the Seasonal Risotto ($15.99), done gluten-free and vegan. The risotto of the day was a Beet Risotto, which normally would be served with beef on top, but thanks to being practically vegan, that was left off. This dish was served with sauteed mushrooms and baby spinach on top. And it was seasoned to perfection. It was creamy and earthy and just…amazing. I loved the richness of the beets infused into the creamy rice. The sauteed vegetables on top added some great texture and bright flavors. It was really good. I had to work hard not to inhale it. But, in the end…gone. And I was one happy girl.

While Lindsey exercised her Slytherin tendencies and gave us dessert menus, we opted out this time. We paid the bill and headed out to get over to Hogsmede to wrap up our time at Islands of Adventure at Universal Studios. Happy bellies and all.

There is a reason that Mythos is a hot ticket at Universal Studios Islands of Adventure. The atmosphere is really great…the service is phenomenal…and the food was delicious. Also, serving sizes weren’t ridiculous either. We were full, but not stuffed. And after a bit of shopping for sweets at the candy store in Hogsmede, we rode rides and all.

Yeah…Mythos was a nice way to treat ourselves that day after a long morning of wandering the parks and riding rides. It was great food…and a great experience.

April 16, 2016

Restaurant Review: Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando, Orlando, Florida

088 — Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando, Orlando, Florida

Restaurant: Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando, Orlando, Florida

I am a foodie. Hard to believe with all my food allergies and intolerance…and the fact that I am a vegetarian…that this is a true statement. But I LOVE food. I love to eat food. I love to enjoy food. And I love to cook food. I love to share food. Food is love. And, as an athlete, food is also fuel.

I am on a nice vacation at the moment, enjoying myself and my time away from the stresses of life. And, as is the way me and my traveling compatriots do vacations…we work in one nice meal out. And, as we were enjoying some time at Universal Studios today, we opted to eat on the Universal Studios Citywalk…at Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando.

Now, I have loved Emeril Lagasse for a long time. He is, not only, one of the most recognizable and quotable chef’s (“BAM!”)…he is just awesome. His food is simple, pure, cajun goodness!! He is pure Louisiana. And that’s what we went there for.

We were in for a treat. White tablecloths. Chairs were pulled out for us. Napkins were dropped into our laps. I sort of felt under dressed with my roller-coaster windblown hair and my Wonder Woman t-shirt. But, none of the staff minded. We were greeted soon after by our waiter for the night…which was actually going to be three people seeing to us. Our waiters were amazing and funny and extremely helpful. We were given the menu to look over and I mentioned that I was a gluten free vegetarian…and after some witty bantering…he pointed out the Chef’s Creative Vegetable Plate of the Day (which changes from day to day) and explained to me that it was a noodless lasagna…where the chef layers squash, zucchini, eggplant and roasted red peppers, all seasoned with amazing herbs, and makes them into the noodles. They could even make it vegan for me. They let us peruse the menu and I noticed the special as well being a Roasted Cauliflower in a tomato broth with crispy kale that sounded SO good. I needed to ask about it being gluten free. Cathy had settled on the Grilled Double Cut Pork Chop and Jenn said she was getting the Shrimp and Grits (I had a feeling all the veggies would be tossed aside…LOL!). But then, after checking with the chef about the gluten-free status of the cauliflower special (it was), and answering Jenn’s question as to what an étouffée was (all the veggies)…he went on to say that the Shrimp and Grits was the best dish on the menu. So…Jenn was sold. He also went on to say that the other dishes he considers the best served there were the Scallops and the Short Rib.

So now Cathy was undecided. And I still was torn between the special and the menu special. Both were special. LOL! But…both were different enough that I knew that I couldn’t get them anywhere else. So, once Cathy decided on the Scallops instead, I was still torn. And my dinner buddies weren’t making the decision any easier. Back to our waiter for his opinion…and with his help, I opted for the Vegan version of the Chef’s Creative Vegetable Plate of the Day. This meant none of the cheese or alfredo would be added to the dish. Gluten free and vegan vegetable goodness.

090 — Emeril’s Cast Iron Corn Bread with Honey Butter and Bacon Jam

As we were going to have a little wait while our food was prepared, Jenn and Cathy decided they were going to split an appetizer. They ordered the Cast Iron Skillet Corn Bread with Honey Butter and Bacon Jam ($8.00). The cornbread looked fantastic. They said it was light and fluffy and just soft and amazing. Cathy was a big, big, big fan of the Bacon Jam (pork belly cooked in butter with brown sugar and reduced). Jenn said she could take it or leave it…but the honey butter at the bottom was just soaking into the bread. I thought it was just…awesome looking. But, alas, so not something I could eat.

Before too long, our entrees were being served. They had Cathy and Jenn’s backwards, but that was easily fixed. The plates were changed out and we were ready to dive in.

Jenn ordered the Shrimp + Grits, which was Louisiana shrimp, étouffée, Anson Mills rice grits, and local cherry tomatoes ($30.00). She said the shrimp was nailed to the perfect cook. The grits were smooth and creamy. I looked at them. I thought it was rice at first…with all the cheese. Much of the étouffée was cast aside, as she is not a cooked vegetable person, but the rest of it was devoured. I really do think it was a 1/1 ratio of cheese to grits…but it looked awesome. Her only qualm…the tails were left on the shrimp. It’s kind of hard to be classy in a nice restaurant when you have to use your fingers to remove the tails.

Cathy went with the Blackened Diver Scallops, which was served with a Creamy Corn Moque Choux, Wilted Greens, and Local Tomato Jam ($32.00). It looked GORGEOUS!! The corn sauce fascinated her. She said it was almost like a corn chowder. The greens were cooked perfectly. They weren’t mushy or overly done. She said the tomato jam was sweet and paired beautifully with everything. But the star…the scallops. They were tender and buttery and had a perfect sear. She said they were the best scallops she ever had.

093 — Emeril’s Chef’s Creative Vegetable Plate of the Day – Noodleless Lasagna (tightly stacked slices of eggplant, zucchini, squash and roasted red pepper) with a marinara sauce and greens

So…my perfectly gluten-free and vegan dish is now up. As I stated, I ordered the Chef’s Creative Vegetable Plate of the Day ($23.00). This was a noodleless lasagna, where the noodles were stacked slices of eggplant, zucchini, squash, and roasted red pepper. The seasonings were crazy good. And all of this was topped off with an amazingly rich marinara and greens. I could hardly make out the noodles, and I didn’t want to destroy the dish to get a picture. So, trust me…there are tightly stacked veggies under there. OMG. The tomato sauce, for starters, was killer. Just mouth watering, savory, amazing flavor. The vegetables were cooked perfectly…not limp and wet, but perfect, with still a little crisp to them, but tender to bite into. Almost like real noodles. I didn’t miss the cheese or the heavy Alfredo. This was pure perfection. Why go back to noodles when you can do this to have lasagna?! Seriously…so glad the waiter talked me into this one. I was one happy girl.

And while we were all rather full from dinner…we decided we had to do dinner. The waiter had tempted me with a Flourless (and Gluten Free) Chocolate Torte earlier that evening. And I had been on the fence. He did deliver dessert menus to us, to let the Cathy and Jenn choose what they might want to have…and then said the sorbets (strawberry lemonade, coconut, and passionfruit tonight) were another option for me.

094 — Emeril’s Flourless Decadent Chocolate Torte with Butter Pecan Sauce

In the end, we decided to split the Flourless Decadent Chocolate Torte with a Butter Pecan Sauce ($10.00) between the three of us. I am so glad we did. While the slice of torte isn’t as huge as say, a slice of Emeril’s famous Banana Cream Pie…it was rich. Smooth, perfect, rich, creamy, amazing, sinful, decadent, chocolatey goodness. Pure sinful goodness in each bite. And that butter pecan sauce…oh yeah…that just tied it all together. Cathy and Jenn split the whipped cream. I ate the strawberry. This…was a perfect end to a perfect meal.

I was beyond impressed with the service, setting, and food that we received at Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando. They were so good at working with me and my dietary needs. Didn’t even bat an eye. Immediately knew what to ask about and explained to me what I could eat and what was delicious. Our waiter was awesome. He made me laugh, he made me feel so good about the food that was going to be made for me, and he even helped me make a decision on my dinner that night.

If only more restaurants turned out a meal and an experience like this one did. Emeril is an amazing chef…and his restaurant didn’t let me down. This was a meal I will be talking about for a very long time.

April 15, 2016

Restaurant Review: Toasted, Orlando, Florida

Restaurant: Toasted, Orlando, Florida

Sometimes I find food places to try in the most peculiar and unexpected places. As I was prepping to head out to Orlando, I was sitting on my couch at home, scrolling through my Instagram feed…when I spotted an amazing looking photo on #NationalGrilledCheeseDay from someone that I follow on there.

And it just happened to be in Orlando.

And it also just happened to feature grilled cheese and…FRIES.

Fries. I rarely get to eat fries when I go out to eat. And it’s potato. And potato is one of my favorite things in life. So, naturally, I had to check them out.

The place was called Toasted. And I suddenly needed to know more…like…was there more than just gluten free fries that I could eat there? Like…did they have…vegan cheese??!! Was it possible??!!

I went to Toasted’s Web site..and lo and behold…they had a regular menu, a vegan menu, and a gluten free menu…and they were all interchangeable. They even have a gluten-free vegan burger if I wanted to do burger rather than sandwich. And as tempting as a burger was…GRILLED CHEESE! Hello!!

I was handed the gluten free menu first and was looking it over…and when I asked about vegan options, I was handed that menu as well. And the first thing that caught my eye was a sandwich that involved all the spicy goodness that I love. Sriracha, jalapeno, and then…random tomatoes. Mmmm. That was easy.

So, my traveling brigade and I decided to get our orders in because we had been on the go pretty much all day (since downing bagels from Erin McKenna’s at Disney Springs around 10 am.

Jenn ordered the Truffle Melt ($6.25), which is a sammie made from Havarti, truffle oil, arugula, and fresh ground pepper. Mmmm…cheese-y goodness. She got the Truffle Fries ($2.50) as her side.

026 — The As Gouda As It Gets with Rosemary Truffle Fries from Toasted, Orlando, Florida

Cathy ordered the As Gouda As It Gets ($6.75), which is a sammie made with Smoked Gouda, pulled chicken, roasted red peppers, and garlic spinach. She also got the Truffle Fries ($2.50) as her side.

As for me…as I said…I saw some spicy goodness listed on the vegan menu. So, I ordered the Vegan Fireball ($5.75) done Gluten Free (+1.25). This was gluten free bread with Housemade Vegan Cheese with jalapeno, sriracha, and tomato. And I went for broke and ordered the Vegan Truffle Cheese Fries ($3.50)…which was a happy accident, as I really just wanted the Truffle Fries. Oh well.

We were given one of the signs, which contained a code from their Periodic Table of Cheese. We had Gr (Gruyere). It was a short weight…long enough to listen to a woman having a loud conversation on her cell phone and discuss how excited we were about dinner. Maybe about 10 minutes later, our food arrived. This was when I realized I had somehow got the Vegan Truffle Cheese Fries. Like I said…happy accident. I was ready to dive in. I needed to slice my sandwich in half and it made for a gooey (yes…GOOEY VEGAN CHEESE!) sandwich mess. And I loved it. Usually vegan cheese doesn’t melt to the point of epic gooeyness. This one…this one did! God bless amazing housemade vegan cheese.

027 — The Gluten Free Vegan Fireball Sandwich with Vegan Truffle Cheese Fries from Toasted, Orlando, Florida

One bite…and I no longer want Tom + Chee or….well…that’s really the only place I’ve been able to have a gluten free and vegan grilled cheese. And they don’t get gooey runny vegan cheese in theirs. THIS WAS LIFE CHANGING!! I loved that it was spicy, without being too spicy. It had a nice balance with the warm, melty, messy cheese (YAY!), the jalapeno slices, the cooling tomato, and just the right hit of sriracha. SO good. I was seriously dredging the crusts of the bread through the cheese puddle on my plate. And the fries…oh…those were good. I was sort of disappointed at first because I’m such a huge fan of ketchup, but the vegan cheese was delicious with the truffle and rosemary flavors. The only downside…was when the cheese got a bit cool. Nevertheless, despite saying I wouldn’t be able to eat them all…I did. Happily.

12967518_999787697381_4212866128158657404_o — Look at the GOOEY vegan cheese in the Gluten Free Vegan Fireball from Toasted, Orlando, Florida

Cathy loved the fries…and thought they were amazing. She liked her sandwich, but despite being a fan of Gouda, she felt the sandwich needed a stronger cheese to pair with the boldness of the garlic spinach. But she LOVED it. She also stole some of my Vegan Truffle Cheese Fries and thought the vegan cheese was awesome. Nice smokey flavor.

Jenn gives two thumbs up to her sandwich and fries. Wouldn’t change a thing. We all just hoovered and loved every moment of our culinary sandwich and fries.

Yeah…Toasted is just that good. It’s simple, easy, but crafted and amazing grilled cheese sandwiches. If you aren’t into sandwiches (and if not…what is wrong with you) they have burger options (also available gluten-free and vegan), salads, amazing side dishes, and even a kids menu.

If you are going through Orlando, Florida…not doing the whole Disney thing where you pretty much just stay on Disney property and don’t leave until you are forced to go to the airport…check out Toasted! They have two locations in Orlando – Winter Park and Lake Nona.

Seriously, I’d go back to eat here in a heartbeat. When you give me one of my favorite comfort foods and do it up beyond my expectations…you have my full and undivided attention. Toasted…thank you! I am one happy gluten-free, dairy-free girl!