Chocolate + Running = Fun

We were completely impressed by the Hot Chocolate Run, We really couldn't think of anything that wasn't top notch. First, leading up to the race, Eddie didn't feel totally prepared, so it happened to work out perfectly since Eddie accidentally signed me up for the 5k and him for the 15k. Luckily they let us switch our registrations at no cost.

Pros
Gatorade at every hydration station and finish line, really nice touch since water just doesn't cut it at the end of a hilly race
Interesting snacks - Chocolate, Strawberry Marshmallows, Marshmallows - even if I can't see myself eating these while running, it made me smile
Enthusiastic volunteers - everyone at the expo and aid stations were super excited to cheer us on
Well organized - the most well organized race ever
No lines - From check in to gear check to food post race, the numerous volunteers and organization made it fast and efficient to get anything done, No lines for gear check! First time ever.
Port o potties - numerous in the beginning of the race and throughout the course
Swag bag - high quality sweatshirt plus they let us try some sizes on to make sure they fit with the ability to trade out sizes same day!
Food - the hot chocolate was hot and thick, I drank the chocolate ganache, because it was that good
Course - I was afraid of the hills originally, but they made the course interesting, and I loved the down hills especially after the 10k mark, just pure bliss.
Fun environment - great DJ and dance instructor leading the warm ups
Race times/Video postings - we got a kick of out seeing ourselves run across the finish line
Expo - cool vendors with great items to buy, like headbands and clip on carrying cases with plenty of drink and food samples
Overall - this is what all races should be like - full of energy, well run, with lots of great food

Con
Wish 5kers got a medal too - huge gold blinged out chocolate medal for 15kers only

We finished off our day with Mexican food and Chinese delivery. I sat in the Jacuzzi, and feel like I ran a half marathon. Thank you to my hubby for being my cheering section throughout this entire day. He missed out on a breakfast at the hotel to watch me finish. Glad we did this together hun. No more races for a while- it's in writing!

Our new Marshmallow Friend

Woke up at 5am, warmed up and ready to run.

How much fun is this? Marshmallow men hanging out.



Where's Eddie? I see you!



 

Greeted by Eddie and chocolate. What could be better? Banana, pretzals, ganaache, marshmallow, rice crispy treat, vanilla wafer, and hot chocolate.

Grateful in San Diego

The weekend started out with a gorgeous run from Solana Beach to Del Mar. Since the forecast said 90 degree temps, I was surprised by the cool morning. The ocean breeze was perfect. The best part the course was heading back with the ocean to my left and the train tracks to my right. I don't know how my coach and I ended up running 8 miles, but by the time we got back to Solana, I felt grateful. I list endless reasons why I love living in San Diego, but the morning run encapsulated so much of what it means to live out here.


There wasn't much time to dwell in my post run nirvana. A quick trip to Starbucks, and I was off to shop for our BBQ. With a cart stacked high with groceries, I headed home. Thanks to Eddie who has now won the title of Grill Master General, we dined on some delicious chicken drumsticks and hot dogs. I made a pasta salad and a white sangria. Having spent hours building patio furniture with our handy man this week, it was incredibly rewarding to share a relaxing day at home with friends. What can I say, my husband and I make a great team.

With our taxes behind us, Eddie and I went out for Mexican food. Even that was amazing followed by a 3 hour nap. What a weekend.


You can see the running path on the left of the train. It's on a cliff so you have panoramic views of the ocean.

A strawberry smoothie for breakfast. So good after a run! 

Eddie's little bundles of joy - twin nieces!  Guess they didn't mind the beard.