Life

Real Talk – Life Abroad, Part II

January 27, 2017 by Asia

Today is my 6 month travel anniversary (say what!?) and I’m ready to answer more of your questions! I honestly thought I’d be packing it up by now. I never wanted to give an official end date, but truth be told, I only purchased travel insurance to last me through February. Needless to say, that has been extended, and I’m staying in Central America a while longer. (Still no return flight home in case you’re wondering!)

What do I love the most about traveling? This is a hard one because I love so many things! After a lot of reflecting, I have to say I most love the new experiences that travel brings. I didn’t know much about Ecuador before I went, and while I was there, I got to experience an entirely new culture and start to embrace a new way of life. I took public transportation and tried to live more like the locals and less like the tourists. (Not always, but when I could!) I was fortunate to volunteer with children and rebuild homes. In Colombia, I traveled 21 hours in cargo ship to a remote community inaccessible by roads. I took salsa lessons. I took crazy buses. I went island hopping and saw how the Kuna people live in Panama. I hiked to picturesque waterfalls and had sloth sightings with new friends in Costa Rica. My travel experiences have shaped my heart in ways that I am only just beginning to understand. That’s why I can’t stop now.

What has surprised me the most? Taking a lighthearted approach on this one, I was surprised to learn that sleeping in a hammock is comfortable! It’s definitely more comfy than a mat inside a tent in my opinion. You just have to get the position just right. Why don’t we have more hammocks around in the states? I think I should open a bar on the beach with nothing but hammock seating. Yes. Someone needs to get on that.

What do I miss the least from home? The stress and the drama. (At work. In the media. You name it.) Down here I’ve been a bit more sheltered from all the chaos in the US. What I do see often makes me upset. I want to view more empowering posts (like those from the Women’s March!) and not all these hateful messages targeting one another. Also, I rarely think about Zika, but I’ve heard that just about everyone in the US is freaked out by it! (Please still come visit me! Ok if you’re pregnant, don’t. But if you’re not, don’t be scared!)

I am happy exploring foreign countries, practicing my Spanish, writing, and enjoying the simple things in life. A sunset. The sounds of a howler monkey. A fresh coconut. Don’t get me wrong. I’m not ignorant to what is going on right now, and my friends are keeping me informed. I’m just happy to march and observe it all from a distance…for now.

What do my fellow travelers think of the election? Oof. People are concerned with the uncertainty in the US, but at the end of the day, they usually tell me that the situation is still worse in their respective home countries. It’s all about perspective. (Unless you’re from New Zealand. I’m pretty sure that country is near perfect.)

What have I learned most about the world through my travels? That less is more. Plain and simple. I have seen happier people here living with far less than I ever had back home. Sure, it might be all they know, but there is some bliss in that.

Do I feel safe traveling alone as a female? Most of the time, yes. Many of my scary encounters would have been the same for a male or female traveler. It’s all about common sense. I never take more out with me than I need, and my bags are never abandoned. The exhausting part is that I am constantly “on guard.” I guess that’s something I miss from back home. Being able to walk around without worrying about getting robbed. I currently consider that a luxury. (Perspective!)

What else can I answer for you in my next post??

Thank you, 2016

January 1, 2017 by Asia

#2016bestnine

2016 was a crazy, wonderful, and nerve-wracking year for me. I spent the first half in San Diego in a traditional corporate job and the second half on the road in Latin America, sleeping in bunk beds, hammocks, and tents. While some experiences challenged me or left me heartbroken, I’m still grateful for everything that put me on the path that I’m on today. I’ve gone from obsessive planner to part wandering soul, and who knows what I’ll embrace tomorrow.

Photo credit: @jessicacorsonphotography

As another year wraps up and we all look forward to 2017, there are many things I want to remember and express my gratitude for. It wasn’t the easiest or most conventional year, but it was eye-opening and I’ve never felt more alive. Living each day with the certainty of uncertainty is something that I’ve started to embrace.

2016 was the year of…

Adventure

Service

Support

Beach bonfires and burned pages

Sisterhood and shenanigans

New roommates, new friends, new ‘hoods

Patience

Exploring 4 countries with me, myself, and I (and a backpack!)

Public buses, police cars, metros, speed boats, cargo ships, truck beds, cattle cars, motorcycles, rickshaws

Disconnecting from wifi and finding peace in the jungle

Fierce tropical storms and floods

Catching Caribbean sunrises

Walking everywhere (everywhere)

Vacationships

Global friendships

Hablando en español

Fine Kiwi company

Strange new words like togs and jandals

Playing 26…or 33

Expressing myself

Learning to trust my intuition

Defying expectations

Doing what I want, when I want

Embracing change

Finding courage

Facing fears

Saying goodbye

Photo credit: @jessicacorsonphotography

As I sit here writing this blog post from Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, I am filled with gratitude. I am grateful for the ability to follow my heart and for the freedom that comes along with it. I cannot even begin to anticipate what 2017 has in store, but as long as I continue to trust in myself, I know that everything will more than work out. We all just want to be happy, right?

Happy New Year to you, wherever you may be in life right now.

Don’t forget to enjoy the journey!

Real Talk – Life Abroad

November 17, 2016 by Asia

Melissa and I met in San Diego through a volunteer/travel website before our solo travels, and then we met up for hiking in Ecuador!

Before I left San Diego, a friend suggested that I write a monthly “real talk” post about what life as a backpacker is really like. Is traveling the world really as glamorous as it appears on Instagram? How do I make it all work? What about the learning moments and the tough times? I could also discuss fun things like, how many times per week do I shower/shave/wash my hair/wear makeup? You know, the important things. ; )

Colombia is gorgeous!

I really liked the idea for that post, and now that I’ve been traveling for nearly 4 months (WOW) I think it’s time to start sharing! Read on, and please be sure to submit any questions you have for me so I can include them in a future post!

First of all, am I happy? Yes! I am living a much simpler, less materialistic life than I was back at home, and I feel happier overall. Certainly other factors come into play, like exploring new countries, learning a new language, and experiencing other cultures. I am also living in the moment instead of worrying about what I will do next week or next month, or fretting over the past. Living in the present was one of my intentions for this trip because I don’t think we do it enough.

Acting very serious on a free walking tour in Medellin, Colombia

What’s my daily budget, and how did I arrive at it? I did research before my trip and read that $30-35/day is feasible for budget backpacker travel in Latin America, so I decided I would take the higher end of $35/day and make it work for me. At home I love to spend, so I admit I was a bit worried about sticking to this seemingly low budget. It turns out I developed some great habits from other backpackers at the beginning of my trip, and so far I’ve traveled on an average of just $22/day! I was even told $35/day was HIGH, so I officially adjusted my budget to $30/day…which apparently is still high? Many people I’ve met spend just $15-25/day so I’ve learned a lot from them. At home I would often spend upwards of $20 on 1 meal or on a happy hour with my girlfriends. Now I’m making food, shelter, entertainment, and transportation all work for the same daily price as a salad and Kombucha from Whole Foods back at home. I plan to do a complete post on budgeting later because I’ve learned a lot and want to share!

I love it when I find vegetarian restaurants! Not pictured: juice, soup, and dessert! All for under $3.

Do I have to give anything up to stay on budget? It has been more of an overall lifestyle change. I no longer go shopping, do happy hours, or get my hair cut and colored. I try to think local in terms of food and transport. I get around by taking the cheapest option available which is typically a bus (and sometimes not even receiving a proper seat). I eat at local restaurants or markets which usually means a $2 set menu lunch. I drink local beer and buy local alcohol when it’s time to party. (Aguadiente is drink of choice in Colombia. I’ve even had rum. Who am I??) I book the cheapest room in a hostel (often a coed dorm with bunkbeds) and try to stay at places where breakfast is included. When I stay at a hostel with a kitchen, I cook many of my meals. I still drink coffee regularly since it costs only pennies. I’ve also incorporated several weeks of volunteering which includes free lodging and sometimes even free meals.

I’ve paid anywhere from $0.20 to $2.00 for a cup of jo in Ecuador & Colombia.

What do I miss the most from home? Aside from my friends and family (obviously!), I mostly miss my yoga studios, morning runs with Nicole, the Whole Foods salad bar, and leafy greens. The tropical fruit here is amazinggg (I dare you to find a sweeter pineapple), but leafy greens are not a typical part of the Latin culture. The other day I treated myself to a sit-down restaurant and found a KALE SALAD on the menu!! This was the first time I was able to find kale since the start of my travels, and I gobbled it up. (I will also miss Thanksgiving. Tear.) I’m getting yoga in occasionally when a hostel offers it or through an online studio, but I still miss the community and my teachers back home.

Aerial yoga in Ecuador!

Do I ever get lonely? I’m rarely alone during my travels, so I haven’t felt lonely per se. Occasionally I reminisce about life back home and experience a bit of FOMO. I’m still tied to social media so I get to see what my family and friends are up to. This makes me feel connected, but at times I feel left out or worried that I’m missing important milestones. I started WhatsApp groups with my family and friends, and we share photos and stores with each other. Now that the holiday season is upon us, I am definitely feeling more nostalgic, but I am very fortunate that my parents & Rebeca will be meeting me in Costa Rica for Christmas this year! I can’t wait for my first group of visitors. : )

Reunited with this guy, from Quito to Medellin!

What’s a day in the life like? No two days are ever the same, and that’s what I like about my current lifestyle. At home I had such a structured routine (wake, run, work, yoga, dinner, sleep, repeat) which worked for me, but now I typically decide in the moment or up to one day in advance. I truly love it and think it makes me a kinder, less stressed out person. I’m generally inclined to over plan my days and weeks, so this is a welcomed change for my brain.

Drinks with cowboys at 10am in a small town outside another small town. It couldn’t have been more spontaneous!

Here’s an example of my day in Bogota, Colombia last week: After breakfast, my friend Hannah and I took the bus downtown where we then took a cable car to the top of Monserrate mountain (10,300ft) and got a breathtaking view of Bogota, a city of nearly 10 million people. After soaking it in, we walked to meet up with two new local friends for lunch. (They also hosted us at their house for a week!) We then went to the Bogota Brewing Company to watch the Colombia vs. Chile soccer/futbol game. We got back on the bus during rush hour, and I was basically carried to the door in a sea of crazy Colombians who do not know how to properly board public transportation. We ended the day by going to a local performance featuring folklore dances from Ecuador, Costa Rica, Mexico, and of course, Colombia. We walked home in the pouring rain (it is often ruthless here!) and had a late night snack of rice, veggies, and plantains before heading to bed.

Views from Monserrate

Today I volunteered 4 hours in a garden and did 90 minutes of yoga and meditation because I am staying at a Hare Krishna community. Totally different!

Planting veggies!

Do I wear makeup? Rarely! I care so much less about what I look like now, and this has been freeing. It’s so easy to roll out of bed and throw on some clothes without looking in a full length mirror. You should try it sometime! ; ) I’ve worn makeup for a few nights out and on my birthday, and it felt like I was playing dress-up! I don’t have any heels here though…I borrowed some in Cali, Colombia when I went to a fancy salsa show with some local friends.

No makeup, espresso please, selfie

What do I wear? I rotate the same outfits every week or so, sometimes wearing the same thing 2-3 days in a row. My socks have holes in them, and things are taking a toll, but this is the new normal for me right now and most other backpackers are in the same boat. While I definitely packed outfits that I think are “cute” and “fashionable” for this trip, I don’t worry about the latest trends or having the perfect bikini body. (Do I even need to worry about these things at home? Probably not.)

I was treated to the works for a night out in Cali, Colombia! I borrowed this dress and heels, and was taken to get my hair and makeup done. Thank you, Monica!! xo

I was treated to the works for a salsa show in Cali, Colombia! I borrowed this dress and heels, and was taken to get my hair and makeup done. Thank you, Monica!! xo

How often do I wash my hair? Once a week! I try to schedule it around hot water and good shower pressure. At home I generally washed it 2x/week so this isn’t a huge departure from my normal routine. I didn’t bring any hair products with me either. #hippielife until I’m home again.

How much longer will I travel for? I don’t know and that’s the exciting part! My money is stretching much farther than originally anticipated, and I don’t feel like stopping now…but I’m trying to take it one day at a time. I don’t know how I will feel tomorrow, next week, or in the new year. All I know is that right now I am happy and I will continue to stay abroad, trying to learn something new about myself and other cultures every day.

Are there any other questions you’d like to ask me for my next “real talk” backpacker post? Please let me know by commenting below! xx

Reflections (at 25 or 33)

September 23, 2016 by Asia

¡Hola mis queridos amigos!

I cannot tell if time is moving quickly or slowly here. Perhaps this is what living in the moment feels like? In addition to volunteering with Ecuadorian children, building bamboos houses, and going on hikes and adventures the past two months, I’ve also had a birthday! Celebrating a birthday amidst such a wanderlust time in my life was interesting. I knew it was my birthday, but in a lot of ways, it didn’t really matter. Every day here I get to celebrate life. Every day I find myself grateful for the opportunity I have to do this, for the new friends I’ve made, and for all the memories I have yet to make.

Having a birthday in Ecuador at an extreme party beach in Montañita did not do me wrong, however. (I’m also reminded of celebrating my 21st birthday at an iconic party beach by the name of Ibiza…but I digress.) I made a birthday weekend out of it and celebrated (a little too hard) with several volunteers from the All Hands project and my usual Kiwi crew.

When people asked how old I was and I responded with 33, most of them just stared at me in disbelief. I have gotten that I look young for my age most of my life, but even more so here on the road. Perhaps it’s my playful spirit? My face without makeup? My genes? (Thanks mom and dad!) It could also be that so many people down here are in their 20’s and assume that everyone else is too. While it doesn’t matter how old I am, I will say that it was fun to pretend like I was 25 for a bit. That was the most popular age guessed for me over the past few weeks, so at one point I just went with it and never revealed my true age (sorryyyy Max). But again, does age really matter? I don’t think so. I think what matters is as simple as just living your life, and not letting it go to waste, because time waits for no one. For me, right now, that means following my calling to travel.

In the wise words of one of the wandering souls I have met along the way: “If you have the opportunity to travel and don’t do so, you’re an asshole.” Well, I might not call you an asshole, but I will say that I agree to a certain extent. If you have the opportunity to do something in your life that you’ve always wanted to do, that calls to you, and that just feels right…but that is also a little bit scary and perhaps a bit risky…you better do it. Now. Consider it an early birthday present to yourself. Por favor. Reminder – time waits for no one.

And so as I reflect on a new year ahead of me, I feel content. I am reminded of how turning one idea into reality – to drop everything and go travel – has been one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life so far, at 25 or 33.

xo,

The Ageless Birthday Girl

Ready to Wander!

July 17, 2016 by Asia

over the shoulder look

It is tiiiiime! The past several weeks have been all about taking the final BIG steps before my life changes significantly. Before I say more, allow me to put things into perspective.

In October 2014, I was a blushing bride in a poofy designer wedding gown. A few months later, my new husband said we had made a mistake to get married, and things were never the same. I will spare you the details of heartbreak and betrayal during those months…months that were depressing, confusing, and challenging to say the least. 2015 was a year of transition and growth, and that growth set me up for a life I never would have imagined two short years ago. My divorce was officially final in May 2016, even though the separation and damage occurred months before that. Now, officially on my own with no ties or desire to stay in one place, I feel free and ready to put myself first.

I recently bought a one-way ticket to Ecuador and quit my corporate job. (Mic drop.) As a type A, resident overachiever, MBA, and planner, this is very out of the box for me, and while most people have been supportive of my decision, it has definitely raised a few eyebrows. “How can you do this?” “Soooo what’s your life plan?” “What will you do when you get back?” “WHEN are you coming back?” I get it. My lack of structure and fitting inside the box of what a 30-something year old should be doing (according to a few) makes some people uncomfortable. It’s ok. They aren’t me! 🙂 Here’s my response: I am doing what makes me happy right now. I am striving to live in the moment and be fully present. I no longer want to dwell on the past or worry about the future. I want to explore other cultures, use my Spanish, and share una cerveza with the locals. I want to volunteer. I want to explore. I want to learn more about myself as a single unit, no longer as a girl who co-existed with someone else for nearly 10 years.

The launch of my new site, Wandering Dawn, was inspired by my quest to live a more fulfilling life. Don’t get me wrong, I never thought that life was bad before. The difference is that last year changed me. You don’t come out of an experience like that the same person. Now, I am living a life solo and getting to know Asia 2.0. I didn’t realize it at the time, but the series of events I endured put me on a path towards something much greater than I can even fully comprehend. I don’t know exactly where this one-way ticket to Quito will take me, but I am ready to find out. The possibilities are endless, and I hope you will join me on this journey!

walking on water 2

A final parting thought. This question was recently posed in a yoga class and it resonated with me: Are you living your life out of fear or curiosity?

Asia Dawn

Giving Thanks (even when it’s hard)

November 24, 2015 by Asia

I’m not going to lie. 2015 has been rough and I cannot wait to leave it in the past. I still need to work on accepting it, but I will get there with time.

So this year as Thanksgiving draws near, I’ve been finding it hard to feel thankful and get in the holiday spirit. That is why it is extra important for me to write this post. Hard as it may be, when we’re down, we still need to take the time to appreciate life and find the things we are grateful for. They are always around us. Sometimes it just takes a little digging to uncover them! I know I am definitely thankful for my friends and family and the various communities that have unfolded around me this year (Oiselle, Yoga Tropics, & The Movement Lab to name a few.)

I’m writing this post a couple of days early since I will be headed to Nicaragua on Thanksgiving day. (Yes, I am very thankful for that. I can’t wait to get off the grid and explore!)

Here is my list of a few things that have brought me happiness this year, and for that I am thankful.

Travel
Sunrise runs
Old friends
New friends
Solitude
Freedom
Family
The perfect song
Yoga
New resources
Vegan takeout
Coffee
Community
Dance
Infinite possibilities

“What a wonderful thought it is that some of the best days of our lives haven’t happened yet.”

What are you thankful for? Any trips planned for Thanksgiving?!

Happy (early) Thanksgiving, friends. xx

Sip and Style

October 24, 2015 by Asia

Hi guys! It’s me again. I seriously don’t understand how it’s the end of October. I’ve been so busy with big life changes this fall that I guess time has become irrelevant to some extent. I meant to post this much sooner, but que (che) sera, sera.

My new home.

One of the super fun things I got to do several weeks ago was attend the Bzees x Athleta Sip & Style event at UTC! I had so much fun meeting local bloggers, trying on shoes, drinking wine, and shopping. (Ok I ALWAYS love shopping.)

California Fruit Wine. Wine doesn't have to come from grapes anymore!

California Fruit Wine. Because wine doesn’t have to come from grapes anymore. Find them at Whole Foods!

I was introduced to Bzees and saw their new line for Fall, featuring go-to flats, slip-ons, and boots that are both comfortable and stylish. The designer let us in on a little secret. Bzees were designed with curves because women have curves. Where have these been all my life?!

I don’t know if you remember, but I had troubling foot pain in the past when training for Ironman and marathons (and lived in an ice bucket), so I am obsessed with the quality of my shoes. I pretty much live in flats so I was so excited to add a new brand to my mix that will actually SUPPORT my feet.

Decisions, decisions.

I had a hard time deciding which style to take home with me. (We all got a free pair!) I was leaning towards the ballet inspired Sashay Slip-On and also tried the Flawless Slip On, but once I told them I was going to Nicaragua (yes! more to come on that!), they helped me pick the perfect ones for my trip. The Women’s Lifetime Sneaker hugs my feet, provides arch support, is great for travel, will hold up on long walks, and is MACHINE WASHABLE. Done and done. I recommend sizing down if you’re in between sizes.

I’m already wearing them around town in Little Italy and recently took them to the farmer’s market.

I resisted going on a major shopping Athleta spree but did purchase 2 pair of yoga pants because yoga has become my favorite past-time. The Chaturanga Tight and High Rise Chaturanga Tight are ridiculously comfortable and hug my curves in all the right places. Plus, part of the proceeds went to charity, so how could I NOT partake? The Autism Tree Project Foundation assists with education, advocacy, early intervention and mentorship to support children and families touched by autism. Bzees is also contributing by donating $5 from every pair of shoes sold using code OLIVER so keep that in mind if you too want to go on a shopping spree. 😉

Pair numero uno

Pair numero dos!

It was a great evening filled with local vendors and fashion and fitness bloggers & I’m so fortunate I got to partake!

Acting totally serious with Kate aka @SoCalRunnerGal.

Meeting blogger friends IRL! Carlee, London (@besocialPR), Ashleigh, Smitha, and me.

My Bzees street style.

Have you tried Bzees yet? Who wants to go shopping!?

Before I’m 30…1 week to go!

September 12, 2013 by Asia

I just resurrected a draft of a blog post that I started nearly 1 year ago…yes, 1 year ago. I think it’s totally acceptable to post it now since it was all about what I wanted to accomplish in the year before I turned 30, and now the time is here. I have exactly 1 week to go until the big 3-0, so let’s see how I did!

Celebrating 29 one year ago!

Begin post: October 2012

I turned 29 last month, and I haven’t given it a second thought…until today when I saw someone’s tweet.

Thank you for the reminder

I feel like it’s a little late to start working on a “Before 30 Bucket List”, but I’m doing to do it anyway. It will give me a chance to lay out some goals for the next year of my life! Some big. Some small. Here goes nothing!

1. Become an Ironman

2. Try at least 2x to qualify for Boston Marathon 2014

3. Stress over the little things less

4. Carpool more

5. Take Jeremy to meet Momoo (my mom’s mom)

6. Have another full spa day

7. Go to the doctor over some nagging complaints that I keep pushing off

End post. ( I stopped before I could get to a more meaningful number like 10 or 30.)

It’s definitely odd to look back at where I was one year ago and where I thought I should be today. The good news is, I achieved all of the goals I set out for myself on that list!! (Ok, every one except for the full spa day, so I have to get on that.) I’m a less stressed, more environmentally friendly Ironman & Boston Qualifier who has taken Jeremy to meet Momoo and is up on her doctor’s visits. Phew! What a year!

My parting words to myself and anyone else who is approaching 30, is 30, or has recently turned 30, is to read this article by Olivia Wilde, and to go be awesome.

Dirty thirties here I come! I wonder what goals I should set for myself next…

Steps from becoming a Boston Qualifier!!

.........Asia Simonelli. You are an Ironman!!!!!!!

Crossing the finish line to become an Ironman!!!

Runner turned Triathlete turned Surfer

July 24, 2013 by Asia

Ok so I’m not really a “surfer” but I did try surfing the other weekend and had the best time ever! It was way more fun than I ever imagined, and I never would have even set foot in the water if it weren’t for my triathlon experiences, which stemmed from my running experiences. That is what I am taking away from all of this. Don’t let fear hold you back! You never know when you will discover something fantastic.

Run, Tri, Surf

Two years ago I was terrified of the ocean, particularly the waves, and you couldn’t find me near a body of open water unless it included laying on the sand in a bikini. I never was a swimmer, and I never cared to be. Then, triathlon come into my life and changed everything. Now, I have ~~no fear~~ less fear of open water swimming! If it wasn’t for Ironman training, I would still be that girl who literally lives at the beach but refuses to get in the water. Now, whenever I feel afraid to try something new, I remind myself that I did an Ironman, so nothing should stop me. Why should I let fear get in the way of what life has to offer?

My friend let me borrow her 8 ft foam board and wetsuit top, and Jeremy agreed to take on the task of being my coach. I have to admit, I was a bit nervous since this was my first time attempting this since the 4th grade! I don’t think that really counted anyway because I got scared and quit once the board hit me. After multiple practice sessions in the living room going from laying down to standing, we made our way out to the beach.

No I did not wear this hat in the water.

We started out left of all the surfers because I didn’t belong with them anyway. I belonged next to the other first-timers and their chaperones, as far away from the big waves and other people as possible. I didn’t want to accidentally take anyone out with my large board and lack of experience!

Taking a good look at what was in store for me

Jeremy took me out to the white water area, and I got comfy being out in the water on the board. Once I was ready, he pushed me into the waves, let go, and I attempted to stand up for the first time! I quickly fell over laughing. I paddled back out to him and repeated the process, standing up on my second try!! I was having so much fun that I started asking for bigger waves. He looked at me shocked, but quickly agreed. This wasn’t the same girl that was crying the first time she went out for an ocean swim 2 years ago. So, fearless, we tried the real waves, and I started wiping out, of course. That was much harder, but I still had fun falling on my face! I might not be quit ready for the big waves yet, but I still gave it a shot! It was a very successful day, and I can’t wait to try it again this summer. Who’s with me!?

Before and after

How has overcoming a fear benefited you?

Songs to RUN FAST to

June 23, 2013 by Asia

Music has always been a part of me. Long before running, I played the piano, was a dancer, and sang in choir. Now that running is my passion, I still like to incorporate my love for music and have learned that a good playlist can make all the difference during a long run or on race day. (I usually only listen w/ 1 earbud in so I can also be aware of my surroundings.)

Here’s a small sample from my “BQ RUN FAST!” playlist I listened to at Eugene marathon. Maybe you can find something new here you’d like to try. I’m always on the hunt for a good running song!

1. “Alive” by Krewella: Come on make me feel alive! Need I say more?

2. “Bombom” by Macklemore: Not your traditional running song. All instrumental, this beat builds from simple piano tunes to trumpets to a full band. I picture a marching band surrounding me as I cross the finish line.

3. “Til I Collapse” by Eminem: If Eminem doesn’t motivate you, I don’t know what will. Sometimes I just need to be yelled at.

4. “Come Fly with Me” by Frank Sinatra: This takes me to a happy place and makes me feel light as a feather.

5. “Carry On” by Fun: Calming yet motivational.

6. “Harlem Shake” by Baauer: This makes me laugh as I think of the YouTube videos, and the beat is awesome. I have it on my playlist twice because it can be a good distraction.

7. “Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons: Rock is necessary to mix it up.

8. “Started from the Bottom” by Drake: Now I’m HERE!

9. “#thatPOWER” by Justin Bieber: Best. running. beat. ever. (You can make a little fun of me for this one.)

10. “Victory Lap” by Mackelmore: The title says it all, but let’s not forget about the fireworks sound effects and the crowd cheering in the background bringing you home!

What else should I add to my playlist?