Crazy from the Heat

So I briefly mentioned over year ago that we were training for a 5K.  I'd like to say that after we ran/walked the 5K that March (which was great fun), we proceeded to keep hitting the road and have completed several more.  But, like most things, running quickly fell by the wayside - not to mention summer is really hot! - so once again, we became complete couch potatoes. 

So, last month, Dr. D said we need to lace up our running shoes once more and take another training course and run another 5K....on July 4th....in Mississippi.  When I realized that he wasn't kidding or drunk, I said "yes."  Maybe I was drunk.  Forget giving someone a kidney; agreeing to run a 5K with your partner in potentially 85 degree/100% humidity is love and commitment to your spouse, folks.

Anyhow, this time around it has actually been a little easier; well, until this week.  Up until now, weather has been pleasant and amazing.  But my 45-year-old knees and shins are screaming at me, and we have a training run with our group tonight in 89 degree weather.  They call this part "acclimating" to the hot weather we will experience in July.  Personally, I'm trying to figure a way to run/walk with a portable misting fan.  My pale self already knows it does not tolerate hot weather and sweating.  However, I promised myself that I wouldn't complain about the training.  I might be sorely tested the next few weeks, and, unfortunately, I can't breathe very well with tape over my mouth.

What is really shocking to me is that almost 1,000 people run this race.  Are there that many insane people in my state?  Then again, I take comfort in the fact that the majority of those people actually finish and don't have to go the hospital for heatstroke or dehydration.  So there's hope for me. 

Or maybe all the motivation I need to finish are these frozen bellini popsicles for post-race refreshment!  Yea, that'll keep my feet moving!

What you thought I would get through a post without mentioning booze?!.  Child please!  Here's the recipe:

http://www.finecooking.com/recipes/bellini-ice-pops.aspx

Keep cool!


"The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start."
-John Bingham, running speaker and writer

"Q" up for this cocktail mixer!

After Dr. D and I were lamenting the taste of the cheap tonic water from the local grocery store, I went on an internet search for suggestions for something better.  At first I considered the Sodastream and making our own.  But then, a comment made in a review directed me to a brand called Q tonic water.  I found some Q tonic at a Whole Foods on a trip during the holidays, and my go-to, after-work cocktail was forever transformed.  This libation is so smooth, not bitter.  It's simply the best tonic water I have found.  It took me a while to find it here in Jackson, but I finally did.  I also tried some also-rans in the meantime but they weren't as good. (Fever Tree is okay, but almost too smooth; not enough bite).

Q also makes other waters/mixers.  Their ginger ale is what a Pimm's Cup has been searching for it's whole life.  Although it's termed "ginger ale," it's strong enough to compare to an actual ginger beer.  It kicks Canada Dry's ass! 

If you love your gin or vodka tonics like I do, find Q tonic.  It's worth it! Note, however, that it's definitely priced for your really close friends!  $9 for a 4 pk!  Again....so worth it.

http://www.qtonic.com/index.html


"I never drink anything stronger than gin before breakfast." - W.C. Fields

Grab your shaker....I'm back!

After neglecting this blog to work on the tailgating blog for a split second, life got in the way again.  Two cancer diagnoses for two close family members - it's been a hectic few months.  But everyone is progressing well with treatment, and life is looking up!  Which is all the more reason to pull out the ole cocktail shaker and mix up some summer libations!  Stay tuned!