Training in CA!

Though my training for the marathon had a rough start with strep throat, influenza and several pairs of shoes that didn’t work out, I’m back on track! I am on vacation with my family in CA and it has been awesome to run without snow! I feel so lucky to get to spend this week with my family in such a beautiful place.

On Sunday, I went for a two hour run on the Bolsa Chica beach near LA as the moon set. Since we flew in on Saturday, I was still a bit jet-lagged, so I woke up early. Running alone on the beach at 4:00 AM was surreal; the lights from LA and nearby oil rigs glowing on the water vied with the setting moon and glinting stars. Being barefoot, I could dance with waves and feel the sand under my feet. Running through sand was difficult, but I still felt good after two hours and the barefoot running definitely strengthened my feet. 

Monday morning started with another gorgeous run, this time as the sun rose. In the Crystal Cove State Park, I climbed four miles of pretty much straight uphill, savoring the state park’s untainted beauty. The scent of wild sage perfumed the air as I ran across the top of the canyon and several rabbits darted across the trail in front of me. 

I tried my first gu (carbohydrate gel with electrolytes that is used by most long distance runners), which was kind of gross but boosted my energy as I ran past the prickly pears and Indian Paintbrushes. The whole loop was 12 miles, and though I certainly didn’t have the energy to run it again when I got back, I felt great and I feel pretty confident that I will be able to handle 26.2 miles by May 26th! 

 I have been blessed with the help and support of many friends and fellow marathon trainers in figuring out a training schedule, monitoring my diet, learning what to expect and building up my confidence. It will be an exciting adventure with many frustrations and set-backs, but Kroka will continue inspiring me as I run towards my dreams!

The Beach I ran

Part of the trail through Crystal Cove State Park

The view from my run!

Enjoying the morning run. 

The hills.

White-sided dolphins we were lucky enough to see on a whale watch. 

Our home for the week!

Snowshoe Postponed

Hey everyone!

I've decided to postpone my snowshoe event to Saturday, March 16th. There has been lots of interest but not many people who were actually able to come.

The time will still be 10:30-12:30 and we'll still have home made soup, but if there isn't any snow by March 16th, we'll go for a walk instead. The woods will still be beautiful, even if they're snowless and it will be lots of fun regardless of the weather. Hopefully more people will be able to make it!

Thank you everyone for expressing interest in my adventure to Ecuador, I am looking forward to sharing my journey with you!

Post Valentine's Day Snowshoe!

I am hosting a snowshoeing event next Sunday! Come over to my house and snowshoe some beautiful trails and then have hot soup and home made buns at my house.
Sunday, February 17th from 10:30-12:30
Bring your snowshoes and your family.
Call me at 888-5729 to RSVP, get directions and ask questions!

Photography Cards

I took these photographs over the past summer and winter and they have been made into cards that I am sending to donors as a token of my appreciation!

Climbing fern 

Pink Geranium

Night Sky

Bee staring back at me!

Bleeding heart

Gear list for Kroka

Here is the official gear list for the Ecuador Semester. I have included only the items that I don't already have. If you are able to lend or give me any of the items on this list, or let me know where I might be able to find these items at lower prices, that would be an awesome contribution towards my fund raising efforts. However, please call me before sending anything. Thanks for supporting my adventure! 

 

KROKA EXPEDITIONS 2010 NEW HAMPSHIRE-ECUADOR SEMESTER PACKING LIST

CLOTHING

1 Pair Carhartt type strong work pants                

1 Pair quick drying, loose fitting lightweight pants. For sun and insect protection. We will make a second pair in Ecuador.

2 pairs lightweight, quick drying shorts.

2 pairs wool socks.

1 lightweight wool or polar fleece sweater.

1 waterproof, durable raincoat with hood.

1 swimsuit.

1 pair winter gloves for mountaineering with an outer shell and fleece liner.

1 sun hat with visor, wide brim all around is the best, caps will do.

1 pair sunglasses with safety strap (suitable for high-altitude mountaineering) “Julbo” is an excellent brand.

1 Arctyrex Bora 90 liter back-pack.

1 plastic storage tub. 2ft by 3ft length and width and 2 ft high.

SHOES AND PERSONAL GEAR

1 pair Vasque Alpine LT - Gortex mountaineering boots.

1 pair Durable closed-toed sandals that stay securely on your feet and can be used in and out of the water (like Keen brand) sandals.

1 Sleeping Bag. Synthetic, 3-season, rated between +10 and -10 F.

1 Sleeping Pad. Closed cell foam, lightweight, compact pad

2 Nylon Stuff Sacks. One for sleeping bag, one for all clothes.

1 Toothpowder or paste

  

1 Shampoo and soap. Please remember to pack your soap and shampoo in leak-proof containers and make sure all body care products (toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sun block) are biodegradable and natural.

One large bottle Vitamins C.

One large bottle Echinacea/ Immune Builder.

One bottle Grapefruit seed extract.

One small bottle hand sanitizer.

One Sun block. Biodegradable and natural.

ACADEMIC MATERIAL LIST

2 Duo-tang paper folders with pockets