Mission Inn Run Race report 2026

The event itself: Where? How long? When? Weather?

Riverside, CA (about 60 miles west of Los Angeles) on Sunday, October 18. Temperature was 58℉ with 60% humidity. It was sunny and clear at the beginning, but we got some cloud cover towards the end.

Course description and evaluation of event logistics

The route was changed from previous years and the changes were nice. The hard parts were still hard, the scenic parts were still scenic. They added a water stop. The water stop at Carlson Bark Park had candy corn.

How did you train for the event

I made 87% of my training days, which were scheduled for 5 days / week for 9 weeks. Each workout was a 5k on average.

Gear and Nutrition

My fueling was kind of all over the place. I ate a El Pollo Loco protein bowl for lunch. I ate a felafel wrap for dinner the night before. The morning of the race I ate instant oatmeal. After the first 2 miles I felt like crap, I was questioning my choice to run a 10k, feeling like it was too far. But then I ate two Welch's fruit snack packets and I felt great.

Specific experiences

I dumped a lot of water on my head. I started out with 3 hair ties and all 3 broke so by the end of the race I probably looked like a drowned rat. But I didn’t overheat.

Finish and associated emotion

I paused at 1 hour, 17 minutes (5.5 miles) because my husband was texting me saying he was nearby. I thought we could get a photo all together on the way to the finish line. But it turns out they weren't as close as they thought so I skipped 2 intervals (~8 minutes) waiting for them and walking away from the finish line. 

I had a "B" goal of 1 hour 37 minutes. 15:36 min/mi.

I finished in 1 hour 36 minutes at a 15:27 min/mi pace. According to the race officials.

Overall evaluation of the event

It was great. We didn't partake in the beer garden. The vibes were good. I enjoyed staying at the hotel and running this race. I got a 3-year legacy pin.

So proud of my 6-year-old Albert for his 56:10 finish time. I was able to find him on the course and cross the finish line 3x. Once for my own 10k, a second time to complete Albert's 5k, and a third time for the kid's race 1/2k medal.

Proud of my husband Mike too for trusting me to plan this crazy run. And for completing the 5k with Albert. And I'm proud of myself for finishing in less than 1 hour, 45 minutes, so that I could do the kid's race with Albert.

It's gonna truly be a race on Sunday morning

Mom's 10k starts at 7:45am

I finished in 1:20:53 in 2024

I finished in 1:22:02 in 2025

Strava predicts 1:27:22 in 2026

Galloway predicts 1:36:57

Dad's 5k starts at 8:30am

Albert's 1/2k starts at 9:30am

So if Albert walks the 5k with his dad, he will need to walk 20 minute miles to make it to his race start. Which is pretty fast for him.

And I will need to finish before 1 hour, 45 minutes to see my kiddo run his race. 

Who knows, maybe they will just give us the medals regardless of when we start / finish. The course route has changed from previous years and the start / finish line has been moved to a new location.

Remind me why I registered us each for a different race.

mom fuel

There are some days when I don't have the energy to mom. And also work. And also exercise. And also be a wife. I got the following two items in a race swag bag or at a run club event. You would think I have a lot to say about amino acids given that my PhD discovered amino acid pathways activated by stress and recovery. But I've been out of the research game for almost 15 years already. Maybe there have been some new studies since I graduated.

AMIN.O. ENERGY + Hydration

• Caffeine: 100 mg per serving from natural sources like green tea leaf and coffee bean. • Amino Acids: 5g of an amino acid blend (including micronized taurine, L-glutamine, L-arginine, and beta-alanine) per serving to support muscle recovery. • Electrolytes: 440 mg of electrolytes per pack to help replace fluids lost through sweat. (110 mg Na, 60 mg Mg) • Flavor: Strawberry Burst or Surfside Citrus.

This works well for me, and I don't get a high and a crash. I wasn't terribly jittery, and it provided sustained energy. I liked it enough to buy a larger box. 30 count for $38

Kind Patches

🟣 Purple: Focus Patches

• What they do: Formulated specifically to enhance concentration, mental clarity, and productivity. They utilize a cognitive-support blend featuring L-Theanine, Ginseng, and Lion's Mane Mushroom to anchor focus without adding jitters.

🟡 Yellow: Energy Patches (Regular Formula)

• Best for: Gentle, smooth all-day vitality and continuous fatigue support without jitters.
• Active Ingredients: Microdosed caffeine (3.12 mg), Red Ginseng (5 mg), Vitamin B Complex (including B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and 600 mcg of B12).

I felt like both gave me the jitters, but it was a sustained, higher energy. I used it during a week when I was exhausted and getting sicker right after my fall, but I still had to be very high-functioning. I would consider purchasing these. I think the yellow was better for me, less jittery. $15 for 30 patches.

PURPLE PATCH INGREDIENTS
Vitamin A (Beta Carotene) 72.52mcg RAE 8.61%*, Vitamin B1 (Thiamine Mononitrate) 129mcg 10.77%*, Vitamin B2 (Riobflavin) 129mcg 9.94%*, Vitamin B3 (Nicotinamide) 64.60mcg NE 0.54%*, Vitamin B5 (Calcium D-pantothenate) 646.05mcg 12.92%*, Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxal 5-Phosphate) 646.06mcg 38.22%*, Vitamin B7 (Biotin) 10mcg 33.33%*, Vitamin B9 (Folate As 5-MTHF L-Methylfolate) 10mcg DFE 2.5%*, Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin) 20mcg 333.20%*, Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) 9.69mg 10.76%*, Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) 20mcg 100%*, Chromium 1.03mg 0.64mcg 1.84%*, Zinc Citrate 650mcg 4.33%* PROPRIETARY BLEND / AMOUNT PER SERVING / DAILY VALUE NOT ESTABLISHED L-Theanine 6.4mg, SHTP 3.23mg, Lion’s Mane Mushroom 9.69mg, Magnesium Malate 1.61mg, Molybdenum 12.94mcg, N-Acetyl Carnitine 3.87mg, Omega 3 DHA 6.46mg, Omega 3 EPA 6.46mg, Phosphatidylserine 6.46mg, Potassium Citrate 1.61mg, Pterostilbene 51.68mg, Rhodiola Rosea 3.23mg Phosphatidylcholine 6.46mg, Passionflower 19.29mg, Ginseng 6.46mg, Lemon Balm 12.92mg

YELLOW PATCH INGREDIENTS
Thiamine Mononitrate 18.13mg, Riobflavin 18.13mg, Nicotinamide 18.13mg, Calcium D-Pantothenate 18.13mg, Pyridoxal 5-Phosphate 18.13mg, Biotin 54.37mcg, Folate as 5-MTHF L-Methylfolate 72.5mcg, Methylcobalamin 1000mcg

YELLOW PATCH EXTRA STRONG
Thiamine Mononitrate 18.13mg, Riobflavin 18.13mg, Nicotinamide 18.13mg, Calcium D- Pantothenate 18.13mg, Pyridoxal 5-Phosphate 18.13mg, Biotin 54.37mcg, Folate as 5-MTHF L-Methylfolate 72.5mcg, Methylcobalamin 1000mcg, Guarana Extract (caffeine) 30mg, Red Ginseng 5mg

B-Vitamins during Perimenopause

Impact of Serum Vitamin D, B6, and B12 and Cognitive Functions on Quality of Life in Peri- and Postmenopausal Polish Women Med Sci Monit. 2024 May 21:30:e943249. doi: 10.12659/MSM.943249. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38769717/

Vitamins like B6 (pyridoxine) act as essential cofactors in synthesizing mood-regulating neurotransmitters (serotonin and dopamine). This becomes increasingly critical during perimenopause when fluctuating estrogen levels lose their ability to buffer serotonin metabolism naturally.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of B Vitamin Supplementation on Depressive Symptoms, Anxiety, and Stress: Effects on Healthy and ‘At-Risk’ Individuals. Nutrients. 2019 Sep 16;11(9):2232. doi: 10.3390/nu11092232
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6770181/

This is the one I take, vitamin B12. $20 for a 90-day supply.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NV5UTIE

Ginseng and Menopause

The beneficial potential of ginseng for menopause. J Ginseng Res. 2024 May 31;48(5):449–453. doi: 10.1016/j.jgr.2024.05.008

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11385173/

Amino Acid Supplements

BCAAs: Leucine acts as a primary signaling molecule that turns on the mTORC1 pathway, which initiates muscle protein synthesis. However, human clinical studies show that taking BCAAs alone (without the other six essential amino acids) cannot maximize muscle protein synthesis because new muscle tissue requires all nine essential amino acids as building blocks. BCAAs do help slightly reduce muscle protein breakdown. (Limited number of short-term clinical trials)

Weber et al. / Systematic Reviews (e.g., Cureus / PMC): The Effect of Oral Pure Branched-Chain Amino Acid Supplementation on Exercise Performance and Body Composition – Concludes that while BCAAs reliably reduce post-exercise muscle soreness, evidence for improvements in strength, endurance, and body composition remains inconsistent.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12674588/

Wu et al. (2025): BCAA supplementation, particularly when augmented with leucine and combined with resistance or multicomponent exercise regimens, facilitates muscle protein synthesis, mitigates inflammation, and enhances physical performance in the elderly population. Initial data also suggest possible advantages for hippocampal plasticity and cognitive function. Front. Nutr., 02 December 2025 Sec. Nutrition and Metabolism Volume 12 - 2025 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2025.1709867

Beta-Alanine: Converts into muscle carnosine, which acts as a buffer against hydrogen ions (acid buildup) during high-intensity exercise lasting 60 to 240 seconds. It delays muscle fatigue and increases time to exhaustion. (Numerous clinical trials with conflicting results)

Taurine: A semi-essential amino acid involved in cellular hydration, calcium regulation, antioxidant defense, and cardiovascular support. It is often included alongside beta-alanine to help balance cellular nutrients and reduce muscle cramping or stress.

Glutamine: The most abundant free amino acid in muscle and plasma, supporting nitrogen balance, immune function, and gut health. While heavily marketed for recovery, clinical evidence for direct exercise performance or soreness reduction in healthy individuals is minimal. (Few studies of use to enhance performance directly)

Arginine: A non-essential amino acid involved in nitric oxide production, which helps dilate blood vessels. However, oral L-arginine has limited direct impact on increasing skeletal muscle blood flow or performance compared to alternatives like L-citrulline. (Limited clinical trials with conflicting results)

L-Theanine: a non-protein amino acid found primarily in green and black tea leaves (Camellia sinensis) and certain mushrooms, commonly taken as a dietary supplement for relaxation, focus, and sleep support. (evidence from clinical trials is limited and mixed) 210 mg of theanine was a dose given as an example from one study.

TART CHERRY JUICE

One supplement that seems to provide good results that are well-documented is tart cherry. I have written about it previously. This is the one I use. https://www.vitaminshoppe.com/p/tart-cherry-juice-ultra-5x-16-oz/dh-7005

Much of the limited research on use of tart cherry to enhance exercise and athletic performance involves short-term use of a tart-cherry product or placebo by young resistance-trained men for about a week before a test of strength (such as single-leg extensions or back squats); participants continue taking the supplements for about 2 days after the test. Study results vary, but the benefits appear to include more rapid recovery of strength and/or lower perceived muscle soreness. 

One pilot study investigated the use of tart-cherry juice (472 ml/day; the equivalent of 100–120 whole cherries) or a placebo for a week before a marathon and 2 days afterward in 13 male and 7 female runners (age range 24–50 years). None of the participants who drank the juice experienced airway inflammation causing upper respiratory tract symptoms after the marathon (a common complaint in many marathon runners), but half of those drinking the placebo did. 

Another study compared a supplement containing 480 mg freeze-dried Montmorency tart-cherry-skin powder (CherryPURE) with a placebo in 18 male and 9 female endurance-trained runners and triathletes (age range 18–26 years). Participants took the supplements once a day for 10 days, including the day they ran a half-marathon, then for 2 days after the run. Participants taking the tart-cherry supplement averaged a statistically significant 13% shorter race finish time and had lower levels of blood markers of inflammation and muscle catabolism than the placebo takers, but perceptions of soreness of the quadriceps muscles did not differ significantly between the groups.

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/ExerciseAndAthleticPerformance-HealthProfessional%20/

Caffeine

Numerous clinical trials with mostly consistent results. Research findings: Might enhance performance in endurance-type activities (e.g., running) and intermittent, long-duration activities (e.g., soccer) when taken before activity. Blocks activity of the neuromodulator adenosine; reduces perceived pain and exertion. Reasonably safe at up to 400–500 mg/day for adults.

Creatine

Numerous clinical trials generally showing a benefit for high-intensity, intermittent activity; potential variation in individual responses. Research findings: May increase strength, power, and work from maximal effort muscle contractions; over time helps body adapt to athlete-training regimens; of little value for endurance sports. Helps supply muscles with energy for short-term, predominantly anaerobic activity. Few safety concerns reported at typical dose (e.g., loading dose of 20 g/day for up to 7 days and 3–5 g/day for up to 12 weeks).

HydraPatch

This has been advertised on the Rise & Run podcast lately as a way to race smarter. Active Ingredients & Components (proprietary, so does not list quantities)

• Magnesium: Supports enzymatic processes, protein synthesis, and cellular metabolism.

• Calcium: Involved in neural pathways, muscle contractions, and structural/cellular functions.

• Potassium: Helps maintain normal muscle/nerve function and fluid balance.

• Sodium: Manages blood volume, pressure, and osmotic equilibrium.

• Chloride: Aids in nerve signaling and cellular homeostasis.

• Phosphorus: Contributes to DNA/RNA frameworks, ATP energy production, and metabolic health.

• B-Vitamins (B3, B5, B6, B12): Supports cellular energy production and overall metabolism.

• Leucine: A branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) that supports muscle recovery and tissue synthesis.

• Topical Absorption & Permeation Enhancers: Ingredients such as DMSO, menthol, and peppermint oil (along with a water-based adhesive/solvent matrix) are utilized to help diffuse and transport the nutrients across the skin layers.

Interestingly, it does not contain caffeine.

Collagen

Collagen supplementation can improve skin hydration and elasticity. In addition, the long-term use of collagen yields more favorable effects on skin hydration and elasticity than the short-term use of collagen. Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Nutrients. 2023 Apr 26;15(9):2080. doi: 10.3390/nu15092080

The use of collagen in the treatment of orthopedic alterations increases bone strength, density, and mineral mass; decreases extracellular matrix degradation; inhibits inflammatory cytokines; improves joint stability, functional capacity, and stiffness/mobility, and muscle recovery; reduces pain; and mitigates markers of joint cartilage degradation. Collagen supplementation in skin and orthopedic diseases: A review of the literature. Heliyon. 2023 Mar 28;9(4):e14961. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14961 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10102402/

Recent classifications in journals like Climacteric highlight the Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause, noting that over 70% of women face joint stiffness or discomfort as estrogen drops. Small-to-moderate clinical trials show daily collagen peptide supplementation (around 5 g) can reduce everyday joint discomfort and support mobility, particularly when paired with resistance exercise.

Dosage in Studies: Most successful trials used 2.5 g to 10 g per day of hydrolyzed collagen peptides (collagen broken down into smaller chains for absorption). Co-factors: Studies frequently note that your body requires adequate vitamin C to synthesize its own natural collagen alongside peptide intake.

Amelioration of estrogen deficiency-induced obesity by collagen hydrolysate
Int J Med Sci. 2016 Oct 19;13(11):853–857. doi: 10.7150/ijms.16706
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5118756/

Ashwagandha

People who took ashwagandha for 6 to 8 weeks reported that they felt less stress and anxiety, as well as less fatigue and sleeplessness. Ashwagandha lowered stress hormone levels. In some studies, ashwagandha appeared more effective at doses of 500 to 600 milligrams (mg) per day than at lower doses. People who had trouble sleeping and took ashwagandha reported falling asleep faster, sleeping longer, and waking up less often at night. Overall, the sleep benefits were small, but ashwagandha seemed most helpful at doses of 600 mg per day or more for at least 8 weeks. Ashwagandha appears safe for up to 3 months of use, but it’s unclear whether it's safe for longer periods.

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Ashwagandha-Consumer/ 

This is the one I bought but I haven't tried taking it (yet). $15 for a two-month supply.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079K32QB6 

I have tried this foot spray and I like it very much. $10 for a bottle

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FLTHH2WQ

In Conclusion

What have we learned today? I would say that branched-chain amino acid supplementation is probably no better than taking protein powder, which contains all the amino acids. Because collagen lacks tryptophan and has very low leucine, it cannot replace traditional protein powder for building muscle or meeting your total daily protein needs on its own. We probably should be taking creatine. Probably should get back into tart cherry juice. I've been using it as a salad dressing lately.

And this is why I should delete Instagram

I love how Instagram gives me "stories" and "feed." I love that I can review my progress as both moving images and a static grid. I love putting the captions on my photos and reels. Lately, I've been dictating into Voice Recorder and having it create a transcript and AI summary. I love taking my stories and turning them into reels (when it works) at the end of a training cycle.

But I don't love how Instagram gives runners unrealistic expectations for what the "expo day" should look like, and the perfect expo-day outfit and matching hair bow. It also sets unrealistic expectations for amazing race photos for "finish line Friday." Not drenched in sweat and dying, but gloriously bounding across the finish line. I don't love how people post curated "medal Monday" photos, in a separate $100+ outfit. I mean, good for them, happy if they are happy with it. What I don't like is feeling pressured to do the same.

One good tip I got from a former RunClub participant about how to reduce the number of ads in your feed:

• Click on the three lines at the top, then scroll down to the section called "Content preferences"
• Toggle "ON" the "Snooze suggested posts in feed" 

The bad news is it only lasts 30 days, and then I guess you have to go back and turn it on again. The good news is that it tells you how many days you have left. Like I've snoozed it for 15 days because I have 15 days left. And the algorithm is way better. I see a LOT more content from friends and people I follow and a lot fewer ads. Thank you, Kady!

I do think writing can be a form of meditation. I also think dictating your thoughts is a good practice. Dean Karnazes said he wrote all his books that way. I can take a thought that is kicking around in my head, causing me grief, and put it to rest by writing about it.

I like how https://www.instagram.com/mariasortofruns has a pinned post about an introduction.

1) Allow me to introduce myself (photo of her running happily)

2) I'm Maria (with 6 fun facts, e.g. wife and mom, loves audiobooks, has a job, loves coffee, born in Miami, somehow a content creator)

3) I'm a runner (sort of). Run walk, party pace, glitter. It all counts.

4) Running lore (history, duration, injuries, biggest accomplishment, current race)

5) Currently Training For: All the future races upcoming

6) The Side Quest: collecting Run Clubs

7) What you'll find here: glitter, audiobooks, inspiration, cheerleader, perimenopause complaints, race recaps, cute outfits, coffee, questionable life decisions, geriatric millenial humor

8) Before you follow: I will enable you to... take photos, sign up for races, book a vacation, wear a cute outfit, buy the shoes, launch the run club, romanticize your life

9) My WHY: I'm choosing friendships, finish lines, crazy outfits. Because I don't have to, I get to.

10) Anyway Hi, Welcome. I'm Maria. You're welcome here.

Well, I wrote to her and asked for permission to write something similar about myself.

Bimbo Global Race 2026 Race Report

The jump photo

I didn't post this sooner, even though the race was two and a half weeks ago. I guess I was still processing the trauma. I made the dumb decision to put my car key fob in my bra and it fell out. I noticed it was missing when I was at the starting line of the race. I ended up DNSing (did not start) and got my husband and son an Uber to bring the spare keys out to us.

Spending

Nutrition
Gu & Bloks = $57

Apparel ($1,136)
3 pairs RunDisney shoes = $356
2 pairs Brooks from Amazon = $205
Crowned Athletics = $112
CRZ Yoga shorts from Amazon = $109
Fit4Mom shirts = $101
RunDisney shirts = $50
Goodr = $48
Zip-A-Dee-Tee = $24
Fleet Feet Nike tank + SheFit = $87
Fantasy Mountain tank = $44

Recovery ($116)
CT Organics = $44
Fluffy Fizzies = $72

I had listed all these expenses under the Bimbo global race, thinking that since I was doing a "free" race, I could splurge on some other goodies. Honestly I don't know what I was thinking spending all this money. I think sometimes I get into an arms race with my husband, knowing that if I don't spend some of our money on myself, it will disappear and possibly never return.

UBER
$84.35

Costco Key Express
$284

Same Day Auto Glass
$300

We got hit with some other unexpected expenses too. It got me feeling extra guilty for the spending I had done previously.

And on top of all that, the 6th paycheck from last fall when I had fewer units hit our bank account in September, so my pay for that month was $2099.20 less than the prior month. It came as a surprise to both me and my husband. So I was feeling down from all that. Even though I knew we had savings to cover the defecit, I was feeling a lot of guilt and shame from all the needless spending.

And on top of that, I didn't even get to run the race. Now, am I grateful for having the shoes I need to train? Yes. And do I love my Crowned Athletic flow tops? Yes. And do I love the Nike top that I got from Fleet Feet? Yes. And do I love having rainbow assorted Goodr sunglasses to coordinate with my outfits every day? Yes. And do I cut corners wherever I can to save money? Yes. I mean, within reason. I wait until things go on sale or buy them used. I don't do the runDisney races at Walt Disney World but I buy the race shirts used. I found a Zip-A-Dee-Tee long-sleeved shirt I've been eyeing used on Facebook Marketplace. It would have been $55 new.

And on top of that I felt shame from cutting the course at the TRON night run. It looks like a PR but really I got to a certain point, it was an out-and-back with two loops, and I didn't see anyone on the trail, and it felt dangerous, so I turned around early, cutting about a mile out. I still had some lingering feelings about that, like shame. And I was looking to the BIMBO race as a 10k redemption. Maybe I'll get my redemption at the Mission Inn Run. Maybe not.

Bottom Line: For a free race, the Bimbo Global event cost us $2,093.

It really got me thinking about trading in my running shoes for a magic key again. It got me thinking about how I don't need to be driving to events.

future plans

Well, here I am. I'm bringing this 5 AM Club meeting to session. On our agenda today...Getting over the fall and doing our first dark run since the accident. I am going to watch my footing today and pay attention. I'm gonna lift my feet up.

This heat wave is almost over; today, tomorrow, and the next day will be cooler than the last. It might rain this weekend. It might not. That remains to be seen. I'm feeling okay, but I'm still sick. I feel a little shin splint starting up on my left leg. I entered a Walktober challenge, so it always pushes me to do more miles than is comfortable, which is never a good idea. But I'm hard-headed and I don't I like to lose. I'm not thinking at all. It doesn't matter if I win the step challenge if I end up injured. But maybe I can push our other competitors, challenge them. We'll see. I'm also clocking certain workouts on Strava to qualify for a Brooks sweepstakes. To get a bib for the Walt Disney World marathon in early January would be insane.

I don't know; I'm really toying with what to do in 2027-2028. I'm so down on this training cycle, I actually said it out loud. I told a friend, "I don't think I'll keep doing the marathon; I might not even continue running. Maybe this is just too high impact for me." Once you say it out loud and start telling people about it, that's the first step in actually doing it.

I wish I could say I feel a touch of fall in the air. But it still feels unbearable, hot, and gross. Even though this week, I had some extra time I kind of did a bunch of things for the house and for family, which ate up all that time. But I also went to the chiropractor. He checked out my hand and said it's not broken. It's jammed, and it might take six weeks to heal. And now I know. And I can just be at peace with that; it's actually a lot better. The swelling on the back of my hand has gone down. I still can't bend my pinky or ring finger very well. But overall, it's a lot better. It's only been a week and 2 days.

I'm really, really, really enjoying my run club gals' company. I feel so lucky to have met these amazing moms. And I will be sad when the session is over. Ms. Jenna said that she doesn't want to do another session right away because of the holidays. It is kind of hard, though, when I feel like we have some momentum, to just put the brakes on. But hey, it's not my show. And I'm getting ready to promote my faculty development workshops, which are coming up in a few days; the first one is in two weeks. So there's that.

But as I was saying, I'm already kind of thinking about 2028. I don't know, is that healthy, or is that crazy? One thing that definitely is happening in 2028 is a family reunion in Colorado. I love it, and I'm so excited about it. 2028, we have the Olympics coming to Los Angeles. So that's gonna bring excitement, and whatnot. I'm fantasizing about getting a Disneyland Magic Key again. Hanging up my running shoes. Trading them back in for a Magic Key. That's crazy, right?

What else would I like to see for 2028? Oh, wait. It's our wedding anniversary, a big one. We got married in 2008, it would be 20 years. 20 years. Maybe we can take an awesome trip or something. We can take a big trip. Celebrate our anniversary. I don't know what it should be. Also, it would be 15 years of sobriety. It's amazing, it's amazing. We live a new life now. We're happy and healthy. I'm happily married. We love each other. We love each other's company.

Yeah, it'll be interesting to see how the Mission Inn has changed. Gonna be there in about a week. It's changed ownership. The Mission Inn Run is now the Mission Inn Foundation Run. Don't know if they're giving legacy swag because so many things have changed in the last year. They changed the route. They say it's the 49th annual, the 50th year.

I don't know. It wasn't exactly the 8-week training cycle I had planned. I had one sickness. Then planar fasciitis. A virus and a bad fall. It's a lot. It's enough to derail a training cycle. But when I go out and run 4 or 5 miles, I feel good. I feel good about it. Afterward, I'm still taking what I would consider to be huge amounts of anti-inflammatories. And I don't like to rely on that. I don't take it before the run. I take it after the run and before bed. And it's just what I have to do now, I guess, my new normal.

I did a consultation with a genetic testing firm, they have this technology called AlterMe, and they look at some of your genetic markers, and tell you what you're predisposed to. They told me I am predisposed to holding onto weight. It would be hard for me to lose weight. They told me that I am predisposed to inflammation and stress, and high cortisol. They also told me I have great digestion for protein, carbs, and fats. I know my body can assimilate nutrients; that's for sure. They told me that I should be doing maybe more like 75% strength workouts, and only 25% cardio. That's not what I'm doing now. They said I really need to focus on recovery, intentional recovery, different ways to bring the cortisol down. Like meditation, breathing, stretching, all that stuff.

And one thing that I realized about myself is that I really do thrive in group fitness. In group fitness situations, I love a Zumba class. I love a community. I love the community aspect of exercise. It's not just the workout, and I think that's why I don't love just going to the gym and doing a circuit, because I really like seeing people other people and doing stuff with other people. And I get more energy; I thrive. The social aspect matters to me because I am an extrovert, and I love being around friends. I never really thought about that before; I guess that's why I love races and training with a running group. And that's why I love Fit4Mom classes; that's why I love a good fitness class at the YMCA, and I kind of don't like swimming because it's very solitary; you're not really having any social aspect to it, just you underwater with your thoughts. So I thought that was kind of interesting.

Well. Here we are. Another beautiful morning. Darker, darker, darker every day. You can definitely feel the darkness earlier. Darker in the morning, darker in the evening. Definitely. It will be a new moon on Saturday 10/10; I could see the stars so well last night or 2 days ago. Now I just barely see a little baby crescent moon on the horizon, like a Cheshire cat smile. I'll trot it out a little bit, see how I feel. I still have about 35 minutes to do some kind of not-speed work. Let's not call it that. Just trot it out. All right, then cheerio, friends.

P.S. Unless I am much mistaken, I skipped my period this month.

I love myself

Bitxh, you live in Los Muthafuckin Angeles! This is your dream life, like Malibu Barbie, babe. You live in a major world city, a cultural hub. You don't let other people tell you who you are; you live your truth; you set trends; you aren't a carbon copy of anyone else. This is a city that kills dreams, but it also holds space for you as you manifest your own identity. You may feel scrappy, but everyone else in these mean streets does, too. (I wrote this a month ago while riding the bus)

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Scary Mommy posted instructions for how to view your Amazon "About You" page. Mine was actually really cute and made me feel like a badass.

Departments: Running Equipment, Sunscreen Products, Nutrition Supplements, Home organization, Bike Maintenance, Educational Books, Diamond Art Crafting, Tennis Equipment, Party Supplies, Children's Products, Children's Footwear

Interests & Hobbies: Practices yoga or fitness routines, Runs regularly with specialized equipment, Maintains bicycles actively, Reads educational non-fiction regularly, Likely plays tennis, Creates diamond art crafts consistently

Product Preferences: Consistent sunscreen restocking, Prioritizes mineral-based sunscreen formulations, Replenishes nutrition supplements regularly, Shops from women's departments, Invests in premium running footwear, Seasonal diamond art purchasing, Shops from boys' departments

Brands: Prefers Sun Bum and Banana Boat for sun protection, Chooses CRZ YOGA for athletic wear, Uses Brooks for running shoes, Regularly selects Amazon Basics for basic supplies

Home & Family: Has 2 adults, Has a son, Owns multiple RC cars, Has a husband

Overall, I think this sums up the life I wished for. As it turns out, the life I wanted matches up pretty well with the life I have. I don't think I could have written a better bio for myself.

rise and grind

According to the AlterMe app, the 4 Pillars of Health & Wellness are Exercise, Recovery, Sleep, and Nutrition. They gave me a lot to think about. When I have more time, I would like to look into each and every one of these single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and what they are responsible for.

Exercise

Exercise and Activity Genetic Profile = Strength Athlete

Strength can be resistance bands or body weight. It doesn’t have to be too heavy.

• Response to Strength is Above Average
• NRXN3 (rs10150332), GNPDA2 (rs10938397), LRRN6C (rs10968576), PRKD1 (rs11847697), GPRC5B (rs12444979), SLC39A8 (rs13107325), FTO (rs1558902), FLJ35779 (rs2112347), MAP2K5 (rs2241423), QPCTL-GIPR (rs2287019), NEGR1 (rs2815752), LRP1B (rs2890652), MTCH2 (rs3817334), MTIF3 (rs4771122), RPL27A (rs 4929949), SEC16B (rs543874), FAIM2 (rs7138803), FANCL (rs887912), ETV5 (rs9816226), TFAP2B (rs987237)
• Bone Density Risk is Above Average
• SPTBN1 (rs4233949), MEPE (rs6532023), C7orf76 (rs4727338), LOC105378305 (rs1373004), LRP5 (rs3736228), FAM210A (rs4796995)
• Ease of Weight Loss is Below Average
• FTO (rs9939609), PPARG (rs1175544 & rs1801282), BDNF (rs6265), TCF7L2 (rs7903146), ABCB11 (rs484066), MTBR1B (rs10830963)
• Response to Cardio is Average
• ADRB2 (rs1042713), LPL (rs328)
• Motivation is Internal (not External)
• BDNF (rs6265)
• Keeping Weight Off is Above Average
• FTO (rs9939609), BDNF (rs6265), PPARG (rs1801282), GNPDA2 (rs10938397), NEGR1 (rs2815752), TMEM18 (rs6548238), KCTD15 (rs29941)

Sleep & Recovery

Stress Resilience = improvement to Heart Rate Variability (HRV)

• Inflammation Risk is Above Average 
• CRP (rs2794520), APOC1 (rs4420638), HNF1A (rs1183910)
• Stress and Anxiety Resilience is Average
• PDE4B (rs7528604)

If your parasympathetic nervous system is in fight-or-flight, you can’t get benefits from a workout.

• By meditating twice a week, you could lower your cortisol by 23%. (Reference 1)
• If you are genetically prone to fight or flight, take care of yourself and calm down.
• Use breathwork and meditation.

Intentional recovery is a priority. Build in tools to lower cortisol during taper period.

• You're experiencing inflammation, bloating, and brain fog. That's due to hormone remodeling taking place during perimenopause.
• You're already prone to high inflammation due to your DNA. Hard efforts may not even be worth it.
• Complete active recovery sessions to improve mobility and flexibility and lower stress levels.

Deep and REM cycles to help nervous system recovery. Heart Rate Variability (HRV) score.

• By maintaining a sleep schedule, you could improve your HRV by 60%. (Reference 2)

Cardiovascular Health = lower resting heart rate

Additional Traits

• Mental Decline Risk = Average (not Above or Slightly Above)
• BDNF (rs6265)

Nutrition

Nutritional Analysis = macro tracking like MyFitnessPal

• Response to Carbohydrates is High
• IRS1 (rs2943641), FGF21 (rs838147)
• Response to Proteins is High
• FTO (rs1558902), MCM6/LCT (rs4988235)
• Response to Fats is Average
• PPARG (rs1801282), TCF7L2 (rs12255372), CRY2 (rs11605924), MTNR1B (rs10830963), PPM1K (rs1440581), FABP2 (rs1799883)

References

1. Koncz, A., Demetrovics, Z., Takacs, Z. K. Meditation interventions efficiently reduce cortisol levels of at-risk samples: a meta-analysis. Health Psychol Rev. 2021 Mar; 15(1): 56-84. DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2020.1760727. Epub 2020 Jul 7.

2. Busek, P., Vankova, J., Opavsky, J., Salinger, J., Nevsimalova, S. (2005) Spectral analysis of the heart rate variability in sleep. Physiciological Research. 54(4), 369-376. DOI:10.33549/physiolres.930645