And just like that we're midway through Fall 2021! Holy smokes, Fall in Seattle burst on to the scene like nobody's business. One minute we're going in hot at 110 degrees in Seattle mid-summer, we slowly move onto cruise control in the 80s and then just like that the rain starts pounding, the temperatures drop and the color changing leaves are already being whisked from trees by the wind. 

However, from these photos you'll notice, that although the temperatures are dropping and the weather getting a bit temperamental, I am still wearing shorts to run. Because, yes, I am one of those runners that refuses to give up shorts and transition to leggings or tights until it is truly winter or the snow begins to fall. There is just something about my legs being a little bit more free that propels me forward and lets me feel like I'm flying.

Because of this though, I am all about layering in other ways to keep me warm and dry as we continue to creep through Fall into Winter. Layering is absolutely key for seasonal transitions. One minute it's 60 and sunny, the next the rain is pelting your face. This week for example, we were hitting close to 70 a few days ago and I barely needed a long sleeve over my shorts and sports bra.. Today (as I'm writing this post) it's raining with a high of 58 and a wind chill that's dropping it to feel like 51. I will definitely need a few layers, including one to repel rain, when I venture outside for a run. 

When I'm choosing what running clothing and running shoes to wear in seasonal transitions (and really, year round!), I turn to Brooks Running. I've been wearing Brooks Running clothing and shoes for years (decades!) and I trust Brooks for their quality, style, wear-ability and the newest technology in running gear.

Brooks Aurora-BL Women's Running Shoes in Grey/Coral/Black* | Brooks Notch Thermal Hoodie in Heliotrope* | Brooks Shield Hybrid Vest in Magenta/Heliotrope* | Brooks Drive Mesh Run Bra in Heliotrope/Magenta* | Brooks Chaser 3" Short in Heliotrope/Brooks* | *gifted by Brooks Running

What to Wear When Trail Running

 Thank you Brooks for partnering on this post!

My favorite seasons for trail running are fall and winter. When the air is crisp. multiple layers required and the likelihood of a raindrop or two increases. You see, I'm about to let you in on a little secret. In the fall and winter, as temperatures drop and the sky overhead turns grey in the Pacific Northwest, the trails empty out. 

In summer in the Pacific Northwest (and also spring as soon as the first ray of sunshine appears) and particularly in close proximity to Seattle, trails are crowded every single day! Everyone loves to hike and run and play outside when that sun is shining bright and those living in the PNW crave that vitamin D. But as soon as it gets just a little colder and a little rainier and a little more grey, that is the best time to hit the trails with your running shoes!

Today I'm partnering with Brooks to share with you what to wear when trail running! Trail running is a healthy, simple activity that requires minimal gear, but it does require you to be prepared with what you do need for your run. You'll want to find the right shoes and gear up for your run to help make your run more enjoyable and stay safe, healthy and run happy!   

Opt Outside: 5 Essential Items For Exploring Your Local Parks This Summer

This post is sponsored by Babbleboxx.com.

Summer is the perfect time for taking advantage of summer weather, stepping outside and enjoying local parks! I have long been a lover of City parks, both large and small. Parks offer a refuge amidst the hustle and bustle of traffic and people, a place to catch a glimpse of nature in an otherwise cement world, a spot to enjoy a swim, walk, hike and bit of sunshine or shade, depending on the day.

Parks are the perfect location for a picnic, gathering of friends or breath of fresh air. I like to think of each park I visit as a little haven to be discovered by the visitor passing through. From New York's Central Park to San Francisco's Golden Gate Park to Seattle's Alki Beach, every City park is unique and worth a wander.

Whenever I am in a new City I love to visit at least one new park. In addition to the opportunity to spend time outdoors, I also find parks offer some of the best places for people watching and enjoying the local culture.

Seattle has over 485 parks and 3 are in walking distance from my house in the West Seattle neighborhood. In just these 3 parks I can find hiking trails, a community garden, a dog park, tennis courts, ball fields, playgrounds and a spray park the neighborhood kids love!

A few of my favorite Seattle parks include Golden Gardens, Alki Beach, Green Lake, Volunteer Park, Lincoln Park, Seward Park and Westcrest Park. All these, plus many others, are well worth a visit if you live (or find yourself!) in Seattle, particularly during the beautiful Seattle summer season.

Whenever I'm planning on heading outside to explore one of my local parks in summer, I always make sure to prepare with 5 essential items to make my experience even more enjoyable, which I'm sharing with you today!