#explore

ad·ven·ture

/adˈven(t)SHər/

an unusual and exciting experience or activity

School psychologist by day, explorer by night, and ultimate weekend warrior.

Join me along the way; after all, it's always an adventure...

Southern California

And Beyond

Before You Go

My Birthday... In South Pacific Paradise

It's been far too long and that means just one thing: Time for a new post. Sometimes I feel overwhelmed by the adventures and how I can...

Mar 20, 20194 min read

Solo Adventures Presents... Virgin Islands National Park

Trip Dates: Friday, September 28th, 2018 - Monday, October 1st, 2018 I’ve been perfecting the best work/adventure balance during the...

Feb 3, 20196 min read

#ChristaKrista+Jeremy: Northern California & Oregon National Parks

Trip Dates: August 30th, 2018 - September 3rd, 2018 Finally feeling inspired to write this post as it’s nearly the end of the year and I...

Dec 14, 20186 min read

It's Always an Adventure: Florida National Parks

Trip Dates: Tuesday, July 24th, 2018 - Sunday, July 29th, 2018 When I was younger, my Dad would take my brother and I camping and on all...

Aug 17, 20189 min read

What to do Around Peru

Peru Trip: Wednesday, July 11th, 2018 - Monday, July 23rd, 2018 Salkantay Trek Dates: Monday, July 16th, 2018 - Friday, July 20th, 2018...

Aug 13, 201810 min read

Solo Adventures Presents… Iceland

Trip Dates: Saturday, March 24th, 2018 – Friday, March 30th, 2018 First and foremost, full disclaimer: I am sitting in the backseat of a...

Aug 7, 20188 min read

Hoodoos, National Parks, and Adventures, Oh My!

Utah/Arizona Road Trip - Part Two Trip Dates: February 15th, 2018 – February 19th, 2018* *Blog Post Part Two covering February 16th, 2018...

Jun 18, 20184 min read

Once in a Lifetime – North Coyote Buttes: THE Wave

Trip Dates: February 15th, 2018 – February 19th, 2018* *Part One covering February 15th, 2018 & February 17th, 2018 How this trip came to...

Jun 18, 20185 min read

'Lonely' in Seattle

Trip Dates: Friday, January 19th, 2018 - Sunday, January 21st, 2018 This post is a little hard for me to write mostly because...

May 30, 20184 min read

#ChristaKrista TexMex National Park Trip

Trip Dates: Friday, January 12th, 2018 – Monday, January 15th, 2018 (Thankful for MLK Jr. Day) It's no secret that I'm on a quest to...

May 23, 20188 min read

Canada, Part One: Vancouver, Garibaldi Provincial Park, & Whistler

Trip Dates: Wednesday, July 5th-July 8th, 2017 (part one) In anticipation of my upcoming trip to the town of Muskoka in Ontario, Canada,...

Dec 6, 20175 min read

Southwest Exploration, Part Two: Utah

Trip Dates: June 27th-30th, 2017 This is the last post for my (epic) Southwest road trip. I started in Havasu Falls with Girls Who Hike...

Nov 20, 20176 min read

Salt Lake City Spontaneity

When your friend shares she has a Companion Pass for Delta Airlines that has to be used within the next month, you throw a dart at a map...

Oct 13, 20174 min read

52 Hike Challenge

The first post. Even though I have been hiking since I was a few months old, I only seriously encountered my love for the outdoors about...

Sep 20, 20172 min read

Welcome to my new series entitled, “That Time When.” Up first is that time when I ran the Chicago Marathon, earned my second @wmmajors star, and got to hang out with some of my running friends… and then kept it all off social media until today! In the spirit of Thanksgiving and giving thanks, it feels like the perfect time to reflect on the ✨experiences✨ I was fortunate to have this year. And while I haven’t really run since (thank goodness), I’m finally starting to feel ready for a few more miles. 💪 oh and massive shoutout to @misskris who I was blessed to run like 10/11/maybe even 12 miles with during the marathon, @superguard_sin for driving down to Chicago to cheer and support and for the huge bag of goodies, @nathen.mixon for being my Chicago tour guide, and @hilton for letting me back into my room to shower hehe - plus anyone and everyone I forgot 😅

📆 October 2025
📍Chicago, Illinois

Expo ✅ Shakeout ✅ All the smiles ✅
Tomorrow it’s time to get another 26.2 miles ⭐️⭐️

Loved seeing and catching up with so many @brooksrunning friends, attending a live recording of Des & Kara’s #NobodyAskedUs podcast, the Brooks shakeout run, hearing tips from some of the Brooks’ pro athletes, and I even enjoyed the expo. Thank you @nathen.mixon for the great pictures!

#WeCanDoHardThings.

#ChicagoMarathon @chimarathon @shokzusa #ShokzStar

First World Major Marathon ✅ ⭐️
Berlin 🇩🇪 was an experience… the energy & crowds were incredible, the heat was brutal, running 26.2 miles through Berlin to finish at the historic Brandenburg Gate was beyond special. We can do hard things. Go Bills!

#BerlinMarathon @berlinmarathon #berlinlegend @wmmajors @shokzusa #shokzstar @saltstick #fastchewsfall @buffalobills #gobills

Guten Tag from Germany! 🇩🇪 🏃🏻‍♀️
As many have said, it’s a long way to travel just to run & I couldn’t agree more. But I made it, I picked up my race bib, I’ve saw some sights, and now 26.2 miles are waiting for me tomorrow😌🫠

It’s going to be hot, my body has no idea what day or time it is, I go between starving and not hungry at all, I probably should have packed another pair of shorts, and my training has been almost nonexistent thanks to calf pain, but……..I know I can do hard things! So, here’s to traveling halfway (or more) across the world, giving it my best, and (hopefully!) crossing that finish line to earn that medal and my very first World Marathon Majors star. 🌟

#berlinmarathon #berlinmarathon2025 #berlinlegend #worldmajormarathon @wmmajors @berlinmarathon

📣 Registration opened on Monday for the next @scwtc Wilderness Travel Course (WTC) starting in January!!! Register now for early bird pricing and a guaranteed seat as classes will sell out! There are four areas around Los Angeles so everyone can get in on the action - West LA, Long Beach/South Bay, San Gabriel Valley, and Orange County. It’s very well worth it and the leaders are all passionate volunteers. Comment below or send a message if you have any questions. I cannot recommend the course enough and I’m excited to help lead the Long Beach/South Bay section again this year!
Register and find more info here: www.wildernesstravelcourse.org

August 2025 in a nutshell aka 📸 🗑️
I’ve already shared Yosemite and the wild ride that was Hood to Coast, so here’s a photo dump of the in-betweens: hiking Strawberry Peak, time well spent with family up and down the West Coast, cheering on the Dodgers with National Park friends, plenty of run club moments, dinner at Michelin-starred @citrinla, and of course, cuddles with @mrbentleycat. Next up: pictures from July, including National Park #61 of 63 (!!)

@athleticbrewing #fitforalltimes #goodrflamboyance #allthethings #gobills

I take way too many pictures and then get overwhelmed trying to narrow them down which usually means I don’t post at all 🙃 I’m going to try to be better about that and actually share more from this year, instead of hoarding the 7,635 photos I’ve taken in 2025. Well maybe I’ll delete some first.

Anyway let’s start with a few 📸 highlights from an awesome Labor Day weekend in Yosemite National Park 🌲🐻🦉 bear, owls, deer, chipmunks, grouse, campfire, hiking, junior rangers, matching sweatshirts (don’t be jelly), rafting on the Merced, good food, and so much more. Hiking in Hetch Hetchy in the fall versus spring was amazing plus spending time in the Valley, Glacier Point, Tuolumne Meadow, etc. etc. Huge, huge thanks to @whitrock83 for planning such a great trip!

#yosemite #nationalparkgeek #fitforalltimes #shokzstar @shokzusa @athleticbrewing

Can’t believe this wild, wild adventure was just one week ago 😅 From the sleep deprivation and constant hunger to nonstop laughter and community, Hood to Coast was the best.

Now please enjoy this hilarious reel of me surviving (not thriving) throughout the race, masterfully compiled by the one and only @chinnychinruns!!! Thank you, Tom! Also that roll of toilet paper and I spent a lot of time together… just like the strangers who turned into teammates and friends!

Forever grateful to @shokzusa for the opportunity to be part of @htcrelay. Can we perfect the logistics and run it back next year?! 👀

#HTC2025 #ShokzStar ShokzSquad #TheMotherOfAllRelays

Medal Monday… but make it Tuesday because life happens fast and I’ve been umm a little busy. Oh and because this weekend deserves more than one post 😅

From all the miles to the lack of sleep, from the van snacks to the burgerville meltdown, to the start line and through the heat to the finish line… Hood to Coast tested me in ways I didn’t expect and gave me memories I’ll never (ever) forget.

Forever grateful to my @shokzusa teammates for the nonstop laughs (sometimes so we didn’t cry 🤪) and to @shokzusa for the opportunity to be part of “the mother of all relays.”

And, yep, I would 100000% do it all again if I could!

#shokzstar #htc2025 #hoodtocoast #shokz

196 miles. 12 runners. 2 vans. 1 truly unforgettable adventure. Hood to Coast ✅

I honestly don’t know how to put this experience into words but I do know I am so thankful to @shokzusa for giving 12 strangers the chance to take on the “Mother of All Relays.”

Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be part of this event - let alone drive a monstrosity of a van, run three legs through the beautiful state of Oregon, stay awake for nearly 24 hours before getting like 2(?) hours of sleep at best, go to the bathroom in the bushes more times than I can count, run, cheer, and support teammates through 90+ degree heat, and become forever [trauma] bonded to my van-mates for life 😂

The miles, the chaos, the laughter, the resilience… all memories I’ll hold onto forever.

#HTC2025 @shokzusa #shokzstar

All the epic pics are from @kimliuphoto + my teammates ❤️

Snacks AND sunnies?! 😎🩸
@americanredcross 🤝 @goodr = the ultimate summer collab

I donated blood today and scored these exclusive “Just My Type” goodr sunglasses!

Now through July 14, donors have a chance to snag a pair - while supplies last.

Do good. Feel good. Look good.

🩸 Did you know?
Donating blood takes less than an hour - and just one donation can help save up to 3 lives. 🙌

➡️ Book your appointment at redcrossblood.org

#JustMyType #giveblood #goodr #donorswag #runnerswhodonate #redcross #goodrflamboyance #donateblood

🎥 And seriously… how do people make Reels all the time? This took me forever and it’s still cheesy 😅

I have some exciting news to share soon…but for now, I’m so thrilled to show off all the goodies @saltstick sent me in my welcome package for the #SweaterCrew!

One standout? The new SaltStick FastChews with caffeine - yes, caffeine! You all know I love love love caffeine and these are a game-changer. I’ve used SaltStick for quite a while to replenish electrolytes during runs, hikes, and rides, and now they’ve leveled up my favorite FastChews with a boost of green tea caffeine! 💥 Each two-tab serving packs 15mg of caffeine and all the essential electrolytes - sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium - and they start working in just 45 seconds. ⚡️

They come in two refreshing flavors: Citrus Burst and Tropical Twist 🍊🍍which will be absolutely perfect for the very consistent training I’ll be starting and fueling me on these hot summer training days.

Check out the link in my bio and use code KRISTA20 to save 20% all year long!

Any guesses for my upcoming announcement? Here are a couple clues:
1️⃣ This account is about to turn into a training diary again 😅
2️⃣ 🎧🏃🏻‍♀️👟⛰️🌲

#SaltStick #SaltyShipment #SweaterCrew #SweaterCrew2025 #Electrolytes #RunFuel #CaffeineBoost #SaltStickFastChews

Summer in LA is exceeding expectations ☀️🌴 Our run residency at the @goodr cabana was definitely a highlight - packed with even more highlights! 😎 From sweaty miles to sunny smiles, one of my favorite parts was sharing @athleticbrewing’s newest cocktail-inspired brews with the crew🍹The Paloma and Bellini are my go-tos! They’re so light, crisp, and refreshing on these hot SoCal summer days 🧊🌞

@runhappylosangeles’s run residency might be over but we’ll be back at @thebrigvenice every Tuesday at 6pm for a 3 mile fun run. All paces welcome!

June was a blast and this is just a fraction of the fun. Enjoy this photo dump from the cabana! 📸🏃‍♀️ More dumps to come 👀✨😜

#mixitup #goodr #runresidency #goodrcabana #flamboyance #goodrflamboyance #athleticbrewing #fitforalltimes #givedryatry

Summer break is off to a great start! ☀️ For the first time ever, I’m actually spending most of the summer here in Los Angeles. Somehow it feels like I’ve done nothing and everything all at once. I’ve got a trip planned to a new-to-me national park in a couple of weeks which will hopefully bring my total to 61 out of 63 designated national parks! 🏞️

From hiking Thunder and Telegraph Peaks in the San Gabriels to running with celebs 🤩 and crafting poolside 🎨, my @goodr sunglasses have been with me every step of the way… even for a night hike! Photo dump incoming, including more photos from our run residency 🤗

#goodr #goodrflamboyance #summerbreak!!

Rode my bike this morning with @bisocolapparel x @cafecitacoffee and realized I never posted pics from @elysmilesahead Tour de Foodie ride a couple weeks ago!

Ely put together an awesome ride along the LA River Path to showcase the river and all of the great coffee spots along the way. I decided to challenge myself to order a matcha at every single stop. Two weeks later and I’m still standing. Turns out 4.5 matchas in one day will make me very happy and won’t take me down 😅 🍵🚴‍♀️💚

☕️🚲 Ely’s picks for our LA River Coffee Tour – and my reviews, matcha edition 🍵🌿

1️⃣ La Colombe (Frogtown) – cool, calm, good matcha, and glorious AC.
2️⃣ Spoke Bicycle Cafe – matcha + breakfast sammy = 💯. Service wasn’t the warmest, but a popular spot indeed.
3️⃣ Just What I Kneaded – a slight detour but so worth it. Best matcha of the day and the friendliest staff. I’m going back for pastries, no question about it!!!
4️⃣ Happier Cafe by TADAA.Coffee – cutest camper setup and super sweet staff, but the unwanted Chaga in my matcha threw me off (hence the 1/2 matcha in my 4.5 total).
5️⃣ 10 Speed Coffee – a soft launch surprise favorite. Quiet, clean, and a very very tasty final matcha.

And this morning’s ride was another fun, no-pressure social cruise (thank goodness because that’s all I can handle right now), starting and ending at @cafecitacoffee – aka the cutest little camper café in Marina Del Rey sourcing from women-owned farms 💪

All in all: Will cycle for matcha.

#LARiverPath #MatchaTour #CoffeeByBike #TourDeFoodie #MatchaMadness #CaffeineAndCardio #BikeLA @saltstick #Caffeine #MatchaLatte #BisocolApparel

@runhappylosangeles x @sportsgoodr to celebrate Global Running Day and kick off our run residency at the goodr Cabana this month. Nothing like organizing & hosting a big event during the end of the school year chaos 😅 and yet I left feeling so reenergized. So, so thankful for the running community 🤗

Huge thanks to the incredible brands who helped make the event extra special fueling the fun with hydration, snacks, and support:
🧂 @saltstick
💧 @electrolit
🍻 @athleticbrewing
⚡️ @drinklmnt
🥔 @vandy_crisps
🎧 @shokzusa
💪🏽 @fitpace.worldwide
🥤 @nocco.usa
🕶️ @goodr
🤝 @sweatpalsla
👟 @brooksrunning

📍Run Happy Los Angeles x @goodr
📅 Every Tuesday in June
🕖 6:30pm @ the goodr Cabana on Abbot Kinney
👟 All paces welcome, always.

#RunHappyLA #GlobalRunningDay #goodr #RunHappy #GlobalRunningDay2025 #shokzstar #saltstick #goodrflamboyance #athleticbrewing #fitforalltimes

Matcha time > half marathon time 😁
Today the mission was to have ✨ fun ✨ running the Rose Bowl Half. It was a long, slow distance kind of day. Took it easy, soaked it all in, stopped for pictures, ate on course donuts…and even stopped for a mid-race matcha latte 😂 We’d been talking about a mid-race matcha stop for months and finally made it happen! For a city as big as Los Angeles, I’m always amazed (and grateful) to see so many familiar faces 🤗

@goodr #goodrflamboyance @shokzusa #shokzstar @saltstick #sweatercrew

Hello I am a (half) Ironman and might I say it was fun!?????

#Delulu

Thank you @athleticbrewing 🙏

Athletic Brewing Company LLC. Milford, CT, and San Diego, CA. Near Beer.

#AthleticBrewing #WillTriForAthleticBrews #RoadToOceanside #TeamAthletic #GiveDryATry #nabeer #FitForAllTimes #Ambassador #Ironman #AthleticIRONMANJourney #ironmanoceanside

Tomorrow is the day I take on my first @ironmantri 70.3.

I’m nervous, maybe even a little petrified - about the swim, the hills on the bike, how my body will feel by the run, and the cut-off times.

But as I lay out my gear, I can’t help but reflect on all the hours, effort, and growth that led to this moment. Over 133 hours of training. 760+ miles biked. 250+ miles run. 67,000+ yards (38 miles) swum.

Tomorrow I hope to add the final 70.3 to those totals - 1.2 miles of swimming, 56 miles of biking, and 13.1 miles of running.

Thank you @athleticbrewing for choosing me to represent Team Athletic and thank you @carlaweier & @latriclub for preparing me to get to the start line! Of course thank you @elysmilesahead & @germancrz7 for sharing so many miles with me!!!

Athletic Brewing Company LLC. Milford, CT, and San Diego, CA. Near Beer.

#AthleticBrewing #WillTriForAthleticBrews #RoadToOceanside #TeamAthletic #GiveDryATry #nabeer #FitForAllTimes #Ambassador #Ironman #AthleticIRONMANJourney #ironmanoceanside

Stepping into something new… Thanks to @nikerunning and @buttermilkagency! I’m pumped to train for Nike’s After Dark Tour half marathon in @nikerunning’s new Vomero 18 - designed for ultimate comfort so we can run longer, go farther, push our limits, and love every run. Let’s go!

The Nike Vomero 18 are HERE and you can purchase them now on Nike.com!

#Vomero18 #TeamNike

Thrilled to be back as a member of the @goodr Flamboyance again this year!

I’ve been a fan of @goodr for ages, so I’m beyond excited to continue to rep these fun, affordable, and oh-so-stylish sunnies again! Polarized sunglasses starting at just $25, a flamingo as CEO, and a company culture that’s as vibrant as their frames? What’s not to love?! (Seriously, check out the @culturegoodr podcast!)

Not only did my collection expand this last year, I finally got my very own Carl the Flamingo plush!!! 🦩💖 🥰

Want to grab some sunnies for yourself? Use the link in my bio and/or code KRISTAM for free shipping 😎

#goodr #goodrflamboyance #carltheflamingo

The countdown to @ironmantri Oceanside 70.3 is officially in the single digits (eeek!) Last weekend, I learned a lot at @latriclub’s two-day clinic, where I tackled open water swimming, a hilly bike ride, and a bit of running, too. I loved the competitive transition part 😎 but didn’t love finding out I got a flat tire! I guess it’s a rite of passage or something.

Triathlon training may be exhausting but I mustered up the energy to celebrate @latriclub’s 25th anniversary on Saturday night especially since @santamonicabrewworks had @athleticbrewing on tap! 🍻

Other highlights of the week? Checking out @triathlonlab in Redondo Beach & another fun Tuesday night run with @runhappylosangeles. OH and getting my hands on @athleticbrewing’s limited release IPA: Personal Record!

Personal Record is crafted in collaboration with the IRONMAN Triathlon Series! This tropical, mango-infused brew is all about celebrating achievement whether it’s crossing a finish line or just pushing yourself a little further. I can’t wait to enjoy some more at Oceanside next weekend!

#AthleticBrewing #WillTriForAthleticBrews #RoadToOceanside #TeamAthletic #GiveDryATry #nabeer #FitForAllTimes #Ambassador #IRONMAN #AthleticIRONMANJourney #IronmanOceanside #PersonalRecordIPA

📸 Scenes from another 26.2 👟@lamarathon! Grateful to be back running with @namiglac/@nami_lbwhittier as part of Team NAMI, trying to raise awareness and break the stigma around mental health. 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, yet support and understanding can make all the difference. Mental health is just as important as physical health and no one should struggle alone.

Having now run @lamarathon six times (five full marathons, one half), my personal crowd support continues to grow year after year. I’m beyond thankful for the people in these pictures, those who have supported me over the years (even if we didn’t get a photo together), and those cheering from afar.

A huge thank you to everyone who donated to my Team NAMI fundraiser. I’m incredibly proud to represent the National Alliance on Mental Illness and run for those who can’t.

One @ironmantri 70.3, two more marathons, and three halves left to go in 2025 😅 😂

#LAMarathon #TeamNAMI #EndTheStigma #MentalHealthMatters #SurvivingAndThriving

@lamarathon expo fun + @big5 5k + @goodr 10th birthday = another very random assortment of pictures. Glad I could rep my @athleticbrewing ambassador shirt today for the 5k. A great, chill day and a half with friends gearing up for another 26.2 tomorrow.

#lamarathon #losangelesmarathon #fitforalltimes #athleticbrewing #goodr #goodrflamboyance

So delayed but alas better late than never: Time to start posting about my experience at #QuiltCon last month!!! QuiltCon day one was busy but I wouldn’t expect anything else of myself 🙃

While getting my registration badge I spotted quilty friends from @nightquilter’s #QYLCrew who I first met at AGOS’ quilt retreat last summer. I was nervous to attend my first QuiltCon but seeing familiar faces eased my nerves!

It wasn’t long before I had my first class: 1 Block, 4 Ways with @libselliott. Here I practiced traditional piecing and learned a few different techniques for foundation paper piecing. Of course I had to use some @wattsalot’s Teddy & The Bears fabric for @rubystarsociety. I just love love love the bears!

After class, I went nuts 🥜 🤑 checking out all of the vendors. Wow, it was like I died and went to heaven except not really because God would give me fabric for free. Even so, I whipped my wallet out a few too many times but at least I supported small businesses and got great fabric and notions in the process 😅 I don’t know if I was getting lightheaded tallying up my spending or because I was hungry so of course I treated myself to some deliciously fresh sushi!

It was a long day and getting late but I was eager for my evening class with @projectleasa - Fussy Cut Letter Labels! I know Leasa from my local quilt guild (aka ✨quilt club ✨) and was so bummed I wasn’t able to attend the workshop she taught a couple of months ago so I was extra excited to learn this technique and finally make myself a name tag to wear to quilt club!!

Thank goodness day one of QuiltCon was a rest day for my tri training… After class I drove back to my so very very generous friend’s house to dream about fabric.

More updates to follow but if you want to see more of my quilty creations, check out my craft account, @kristaquilts_

@themqg #themqg @lamqg #lamqg #kristaquilts #quiltcon2025

Debuted my @athleticbrewing tri suit this morning at the @pasadenatriathlon! I guess that makes me an official triathlete BUT the big goal is still ahead. While this reverse tri was “only” a 5k run ‍🏃🏻‍♀️, 15k bike 🚴🏻, and 150m swim 🏊🏻‍♀️, it was a valuable (and dare I say fun 😏) experience that gave me a small taste of triathlon racing - one I’ll definitely carry into @ironmantri Oceanside 70.3.

A couple of years ago, if you would have asked me whether I’d ever do a triathlon - even at this distance - I would have definitely said, “no that’s crazy.” And yet… here we are. Learning & growing every day, especially this International Women’s Day! 💪 So thankful for my friends/run family who let me do these crazy things with them 🥲😌 and for @latriclub for helping me feel/be prepared!

Oh, and I’m extra excited because after the tri, I got to head to the kickoff event for @nike’s After Dark Tour in LA 🌃 a half marathon happening in early June designed to empower women. I missed attending all my random events! 🏃🏻‍♀️🎉

📆 28 days until @ironmantri Oceanside 70.3

Athletic Brewing Company LLC. Milford, CT, and San Diego, CA. Near Beer.

#AthleticBrewing #WillTriForAthleticBrews #RoadToOceanside #TeamAthletic #GiveDryATry #nabeer #FitForAllTimes #Ambassador #Ironman #AthleticIRONMANJourney #IronmanOceanside #TriathlonTraining #PasadenaTriathlon #Oceanside70point3 @genericevents

Two-post kind of day because I have a lot of hobbies and have been umm busy?!

Last weekend, I traveled to Phoenix to attend @themqg’s QuiltCon - yes, you read that right: QuiltCon. I’ll be sharing more about it over the next few days, but first, I have to share about this - because I’ve been working really, really diligently on my first real Foundation Paper Piecing (FPP) project!

I took a handful of classes at QuiltCon and one of my favorites was FUN-damentals of Foundation Paper Piecing with @prideandjoyquilting. Veruschka Zarate is an incredible instructor and person, and she even won Best in Show for her stunning double-sided FPP quilt, Dignity. It was truly an honor to learn from her.

Even though my Capturing Memories: Road Trip quilt isn’t perfect (at least two accidental ‘creative choices’ in there!), I’m still really proud of it. More QuiltCon content coming soon 🤓

Friday: Longest swim yet 🏊🏼‍♀️
Saturday: 50+ miles, 3000+ feet of gain 🚴🏼‍♀️
Sunday: @screenland5k with friends followed by 9 solo miles on the treadmill 🏃🏻‍♀️

From great news Friday to my trisuit fitting(ish). Another great weekend, another random assortment of pictures.

Now it’s time for lots of kitty cuddles with @mrbentleycat while I look at my eyelids (sleep).

Athletic Brewing Company LLC. Milford, CT, and San Diego, CA. Near Beer.

@athleticbrewing #AthleticBrewing #WillTriForAthleticBrews #RoadToOceanside #TeamAthletic #GiveDryATry #nabeer #FitForAllTimes #Ambassador #Ironman #AthleticIRONMANJourney #ironmanoceanside

A bit behind on posting because I’ve been busy, busy, busy! Triathlon training for @ironmantri Oceanside 70.3 presented by @athleticbrewing is *well* underway.

Never in my wildest imagination did I think I’d log over 100 hours of training… yet here we are - 101 hours, 3 minutes, and 56 seconds in, with still 40 days to go. From early mornings to late nights, I am so grateful for this opportunity from Athletic Brewing and for the coaching and support from @latriclub - and friends & family! And, of course @runhappylosangeles.

I’d say I officially kicked off training on 12/11/2024, and after finally crunching some numbers, here’s where things stand as of today (2/24/2025):
🏊‍♀️ Swim: 54,225 yards
🚴‍♀️ Bike: At least 575.23 miles
🏃‍♀️ Run: 168.62 miles
(Elevation stats coming soonish!)

I’m proud of these numbers, but more than that, I’m proud of the journey. Proud of learning how to swim. Proud of clipping into my bike. Proud to be taking on the @lamarathon next month in support of @namiglac. Soon, I’ll be proud of my first open-water swim (as long as I don’t drown…) And hopefully, proud of fitting into my tri suit…!

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to enjoy a cold @athleticbrewing Upside Dawn - that is after I lead a night hike for @sc2030 🍻 😴

Athletic Brewing Company LLC. Milford, CT, and San Diego, CA. Near Beer.

#AthleticBrewing #WillTriForAthleticBrews #RoadToOceanside #TeamAthletic #GiveDryATry #nabeer #FitForAllTimes #Ambassador #Ironman #AthleticIRONMANJourney #ironmanoceanside

For all the times I’ve been on the brink of tears - whether from training or *gestures wildly* everything else life is throwing my way - I’m still so incredibly grateful for the opportunity to train and take on my first triathlon - Oceanside 70.3. And if you didn’t know, I sure wouldn’t be doing this without @athleticbrewing.

So, on that note, excuse me while I tally up every grueling workout and scroll through all the incredible photos capturing moments I’m already looking back on fondly while enjoying a cold Upside Dawn from Athletic Brewing!

But also, I’m clipping in tomorrow - wish me luck 😅

“The pain you feel today is building the strength you need for tomorrow.”

As always, I’m beyond grateful for the words of encouragement, tips, tricks, and support. Shoutout to my family, Ely & German, and Patrick & Kathy 🤗

57 days until @ironmantri Oceanside 70.3

Athletic Brewing Company LLC. Milford, CT, and San Diego, CA. Near Beer.

#AthleticBrewing #WillTriForAthleticBrews #RoadToOceanside #TeamAthletic #GiveDryATry #nabeer #FitForAllTimes #Ambassador #Ironman #AthleticIRONMANJourney #IronmanOceanside

January 2025. ✅

The longest month (ever?), filled with some of the highest highs and lowest lows. Another month humbly reminding me how grateful I am for supportive friends and family. Building mental and physical toughness one day at a time.

“The things you take for granted, someone else is praying for.”

I spent days glued to the news, worrying nonstop and battling a constant headache. Eventually, I turned the TV off and tried to put my phone down but I still didn’t feel like doing anything. I finally peeled myself off the couch for a short bike ride at the gym thanks to the poor air quality outside. It helped, even just a little.

I had a slow start yesterday but got to the gym for a swim and ended the day by meeting up with friends, which was much, much needed in-person social connection. I appreciate all of the check-ins from friends and family across the country more than I can describe but it’s all so exhausting.

I got out of town for better air quality accompanied by a 45 mile bike ride and 6 mile run today, just as the training plan prescribed. Thankful all felt good with that - and that the @buffalobills won 🥲

I feel incredibly grateful to be able to move my body and am so thankful to @athleticbrewing for the motivation right now, but I still can’t stop thinking about friends who have lost their homes or been evacuated and I can’t stop mourning the loss of the beautiful hiking trails where I’ve spent literally countless hours.

Seeing Los Angeles come together in the face of such loss has been a source of hope, helping heal some of the heartbreak. Deep down, I know we’ll emerge stronger and more united from this, but in this moment, it’s still so hard to process the devastation.

-

83 days until @ironmantri Oceanside 70.3

Athletic Brewing Company LLC. Milford, CT, and San Diego, CA. Near Beer.

#AthleticBrewing #WillTriForAthleticBrews #RoadToOceanside #TeamAthletic #GiveDryATry #FitForAllTimes #Ambassador #Ironman #AthleticIRONMANJourney #IronmanOceanside

390 days alcohol-free.

I considered writing a long explanation for why I am choosing this lifestyle, but then I realized - I don’t owe anyone an explanation 😌

What I will say is that you really truly can have fun without alcohol. If societal pressure feels overwhelming, there are so many great alternatives, from non-alcoholic beers to delicious mocktails.

What started as a “let’s see if I can do this for six months” experiment turned into a year - and now, who knows how long? I don’t miss it. Ok maybe just espresso martinis. But either way, I love discovering the other available options, and waking up early for morning workouts while feeling great and chasing big goals this year is reason enough for me.

Whether it’s nights out (or in) with friends, solo crafting time, Bills games, Sabres games, road trips, watching tv at home, outdoorsy weekends in the mountains, or anything in between - consider giving dry a try. New year, new goals…it may not be easy for everyone, but starting 2025 with a challenge could make a big difference.

Thank you, @athleticbrewing, for making this journey easier, and to my friends who never question my choice or treat me differently because of it.

PS. The Athletic Brewing “Upside Dawn” Golden 🍻 is my favorite, can you tell 😂

92 days until @ironmantri Oceanside 70.3

Athletic Brewing Company LLC. Milford, CT, and San Diego, CA. Near Beer.

#AthleticBrewing #WillTriForAthleticBrews #RoadToOceanside #TeamAthletic #GiveDryATry #FitForAllTimes #Ambassador #Ironman #AthleticIRONMANJourney #IronmanOceanside

Winter camping at Allegany State Park…What started as a fun idea years ago has turned into an annual tradition for my dad and me - starting the new year with a First Day Hike 🥾

This year, we stayed in a very nice, cozy, heated cabin for two nights as we explored the Red House area of the park. We were even joined by my aunt and uncle on New Years Day, who cooked us an amazing dinner to kick off the year. There’s nothing better than family, nature, and good food 🥩 😎 And, since I was dressed warmly, the snow ❄️ added to the good times. But, it was snowing quite a bit and my aunt and uncle ended up staying the night!

While I’m looking forward to returning to sunny SoCal, I really enjoyed another year spending time around the campfire 🔥, totally unplugged 🔌, and soaking in a couple of days of pure relaxation📚

#WinterCamping #AlleganyStatePark #FirstDayHike #UltimateHikingChallenge #WNYhikingChallenge #NYStateParks

2024 Top Nine! I originally planned to post this on New Year’s Eve, but I was camping with my dad and off the grid 🏕️ Before officially turning the page on 2024, I’ve been reflecting on the countless memories made during what has been a truly transformational year.

These photos capture my “top nine” based on your likes, but my personal highlights also include:
➡️ A cross-country road trip visiting new-to-me National Parks, bringing my total to 60/63 🌲🏞️
➡️ Exploring new states, bringing my total to 48/50 🌎
➡️ Cherished moments with family, snuggles with Bentley 🐾, football Sundays (Go Bills 🏈), and creative hours quilting 🧵

While I didn’t hit all my reading goals 📚, I traded some hiking and backpacking for running - completing half marathons and marathons coast to coast and co-creating @RunHappyLosAngeles 🏃‍♀️✨That said, I still climbed big mountains, summiting Mount Whitney (the tallest in the lower 48) for the second time 🏔️, backpacked the entirety of Catalina Island for the second time, and soaked up Mammoth’s magic with friends I’m so thankful for.

I’m beyond grateful for friends, family, and restraining orders. 2025 is already off to a brighter start, and I’m ready for more memories, adventures, and a bit more relaxation this year - ha, ha, ha. Cheers to what’s ahead!

📸 Top Nine:
1️⃣ Athletic Brewing Ambassador announcement
2️⃣ Summiting Mount Whitney, backpacking the tallest peak in the lower 48 states for the second time
3️⃣ LA Marathon Finisher (for the 5th? Time)
4️⃣ Brooks Running Collective announcement
5️⃣ My post for Brooks’ #LetsRunThere campaign
6️⃣ Houston Half Marathon Finisher (for the 2nd time)
7️⃣ One of my favorite pictures ever, captured by @erick_danny4449 @eh_photoenthusiastic
8️⃣ #FlatKrista for the Every Woman’s Marathon in Savannah, Georgia
9️⃣ Summiting San Bernardino, a day hike in Southern California

#TopNine2024 #BrooksRunningCollective #ParkChat #CatMom #KristaQuilts #AthleticBrewing #goodrFlamboyance #goBills #FitForAllTimes #scwtc #WildernessTravelCourse #RunHappy

🌟 On this final Monday of 2024, I’m sharing my last #MedalMonday of the year! 🏅✨ I’ve always loved earning medals after finishing races, only to stash them away in a box…but this year was different. I proudly displayed my 2024 medals on this gorgeous handmade piece of wood, crafted with love by my uncle. 🪵❤️

2024 was a year full of highlights, growth, and so many unforgettable moments. Here’s the lineup of my 2024 medals:

🏃‍♀️ We Are Houston 5K
🏅 @chevronhoustonmarathon Half Marathon
🎉 Houston Double Play
🌹 Rose Bowl Half Marathon
👟 LA Big 5K
🎥 @lamarathon
🏆 Los Angeles Double Play
💪 Conquer Los Angeles Challenge
🧘‍♀️ Lululemon 10K Tour
👣 Generations in Motion 5K
🏃‍♀️ The Big Run 5K
🦬 Buffalo Marathon 5K Run
🎖️ @buffalomarathon Half Marathon
👙 @runmercury Bra Run
🐾 Snoopy Run
🔥 @brooksrunning Hype Fest
🍞 @bimboglobalrace 10K
🌊 @malibumoves Half Marathon
💀 Dia de Los Muertos 5K
👩‍👧 @everywomansmarathon
⛰️ Trans-Catalina Trail Hiking Medal (Thanks, Christie!)
🦃 @runmercury Drumstick Dash 5K

In total: two full marathons, four half marathons, countless 5Ks and 10Ks, and more memories than I can count. 🥹💖

2024 was truly one for the books, and I can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store! 🥳 🥁 Three full marathons & a half Ironman... 🚴‍♀️🏊‍♀️🏃‍♀️ Let’s gooo! 💥

#RaceMedals #MedalMonday #RunningCommunity #2024Recap #BrooksRunningCollective #LetsRunThere #IronmanJourney #FitForAllTimes #TeamAthleticBrewing #TriathlonTraining

Holiday vibes, but make it triathlon training 💪🚴‍♀️🏊‍♀️ Right before leaving LA, I had my first swim lesson and can now officially go underwater without plugging my nose…seriously, I didn’t know how to do that before! The weekend before, I attended a bike clinic with @LAtriclub where I learned how to stop quickly, change gears, corner, and tackle hills (both climbing and descending).

This morning, I went for a swim and bike ride because winter break doesn’t mean taking a break! I’m putting in the time and the miles knowing I have a long way to go - not just in swimming, but in biking and running too. Still, I’m so thankful for the support surrounding me.

Only 102 days until Ironman Oceanside 70.3 🏁! Huge thanks to @athleticbrewing for the amazing gifts before I left LA - they’re keeping me fueled and motivated! And shoutout to @latriclub for coaching me through this journey and making sure I know what I’m supposed to do each day. I’m so grateful for this incredible community as I take on the swim, bike, and run life. 🏊‍♀️🚴‍♀️🏃‍♀️💙

#102DaysToGo #IronmanJourney #FitForAllTimes #nabeer #TeamAthleticBrewing #TriathlonTraining

A perfect, albeit slightly chilly, birthday. Go Bills!

Last night I had the pleasure of attending @latriclub’s monthly social event with @elysmilesahead, and it was exactly what I needed to *finally* make it official and join. I’m thrilled to share that I’m now the newest member of LA Tri Club’s Performance Squad! 😎😅

Gear Check:
✅ Plenty of @brooksrunning shoes
✅ Bathing suit, swim cap, and goggles
✅ Bicycle (huge thanks to Patrick!)
✅ Coach

The countdown is on: 120 days until IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside. The road to Oceanside officially begins now. 🏊🏼‍♀️ 🚲 🏃🏻

A huge thank you to Athletic Brewing for giving me the opportunity to take on my first triathlon. Let’s do this!

Athletic Brewing Company LLC. Milford, CT, and San Diego, CA. Near Beer.

@athleticbrewing #AthleticBrewing #WillTriForAthleticBrews #RoadToOceanside #TeamAthletic #GiveDryATry #FitForAllTimes #Ambassador #Ironman #AthleticIRONMANJourney #IronmanOceanside #BrooksRunningCollective #LetsRunThere #LAtriClub

Happy Thanksgiving from the Drumstick Dash in Los Angeles this morning 🦃🏃🏻‍♀️ I chose the 5k over the 10k because I’m still feeling very sore and so so tired after my incredible backpacking trip on Catalina Island that I returned from late last night (pictures coming soon!) Despite the soreness, I was thankful I was able to move my feet so others can eat! It was an honor to serve as an ambassador for the @drumstickdashla this year benefiting @hopeofthevalley 🤗

Wishing you and yours a happy, cozy Thanksgiving! I’m beyond thankful for my amazing friends, family, and my super cute, super cuddly meow man, Bentley 🐾 who I’ll be spending the next four days resting and relaxing with 😴😌😽

#HappyThanksgiving #BrooksRunningCollective #LetsRunThere #RunHappy @brooksrunning #Rungoodr #goodrFlamboyance @rungoodr @goodr #DrumstickDashLA @runmercury

I received my first training care package from @athleticbrewing for the upcoming @ironmantri! I still can’t believe I was chosen to represent Team Athletic in Oceanside this spring.

After running the @everywomansmarathon in Savannah last weekend and with another adventure kicking off tomorrow, I’m looking forward to relaxing next week before officially starting my training for my very first triathlon, an Ironman 70.3 😳😅

In the meantime, here’s to enjoying a cold beer without compromise! Thank you, Athletic Brewing, for sending enough to share with my run club, @runhappylosangeles!

Athletic Brewing Company LLC. Milford, CT, and San Diego, CA. Near Beer.

#Gifted #AthleticBrewing #WillTriForAthleticBrews #RoadToOceanside #TeamAthletic #GiveDryATry #FitForAllTimes #Ambassador #Ironman #AthleticIRONMANJourney #IronmanOceanside

Medal Monday! 🏅 I spent much of the day reflecting on how grateful I am to have been able to participate in @everywomansmarathon this past weekend. The last couple of years included a rather turbulent journey that ultimately made me stronger mentally, physically, and emotionally - and for that, I am so thankful.

#EverythingHappensForAReason #ItsAlwaysAnAdventure #MedalMonday #EveryWomansMarathon #BrooksRunning #BrooksRunningCollective #RunHappy #LetsRunThere @brooksrunning @gotmilk @gonnaneedmilk

Every Woman’s Marathon ✅ Another 26.2 miles in the books! My first time in Savannah and the city’s charm was everywhere, from snapping a pic with “Forrest Gump” to all the hilarious and encouraging race signs. I’m fairly happy with my time as it was not my fastest yet not my slowest marathon - and that’s even with using the restroom in a construction zone, pictures, and stopping back at my @sonderstays to switch my shoes 😅😂 AND it’s up there for one of the most fun! #FunRun mission accomplished! It’s always an adventure 😎 I capped off the day with a great post-race concert by Natasha Bedingfield - because, after all, the rest is still unwritten! 🌸🏃‍♀️🎶

PS what do you all think of my cool new exfoliant, sweat?!

#EveryWomansMarathon @everywomansmarathon #TeamMilk #RunSavannah #SavannahGA #RaceDayFun #RunHappy #RunHappyLosAngeles #BrooksRunning #BrooksRunningCollective #goodr #goodrFlamboyance #Rungoodr #GiveDryATry #TeamAthletic @goodr @rungoodr @brooksrunning @athleticbrewing #GoBills

Cheers 🥛 to 26.2 🏃🏻‍♀️! Tomorrow, I’ll be running the inaugural Every Woman’s Marathon presented by Team Milk, joining 5,000+ women as we take on the scenic, historic streets of Savannah, Georgia. I had a packed schedule planned, but with all the recent go go go, my body and mind told me to slow down and take it easy - which will likely continue tomorrow #FunRun. I explored the expo and spent some time at Bitty & Beau’s Coffee, a coffee shop dedicated to providing meaningful employment to people with disabilities while creating a welcoming community for all. Hopefully I won’t be too sore to enjoy Savannah after the marathon! Let’s do this… and go Bills!

#BrooksRunning #BrooksRunningCollective @brooksrunning #goodr #rungoodr @goodr #goodrFlamboyance #EveryWomansMarathon @everywomansmarathon #SavannahGA #RunSavannah #TeamMilk #BittyAndBeaus @bittyandbeauscoffee #InclusionMatters #RunHappy #RaceDayReady #GoBills #GiveDryATry #TeamAthletic @athleticbrewing

Krista the Wilderness Explorer & @runhappylosangeles does Halloween 🎃 👻 🏃🏾🏃🏻‍♀️

As always I had the best time at run club but this time I channeled my inner Wilderness Explorer, complete with serious costume judging duties…aka counting the votes 🗳️ 🤓

Of course I loved loved loved everyone’s creative costumes as everyone had a lot of aHalloween spirit this spooky season!

Speaking of, swipe to see @mrbentleycat making his debut as Pawblo Pawcasso, purr-fectly capturing the art of Halloween! 🐾🎨

PS. I made my flag out of a chopstick and piece of paper 😂

#RunHappyLosAngeles #RunClub #LetsRunThere #BrooksRunningCollective #RunClubHalloween #WildernessExplorer #PawbloPawcasso #RunHappy

Well…here goes nothing! 📣 I’m equal parts excited and nervous to announce that I’ve been selected to represent Athletic Brewing Company at the @athleticbrewing IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside this upcoming April. My first @ironmantri, my first triathlon…here we gooooo! 🏊🏼‍♀️🚴🏼‍♀️🏃🏻‍♀️

I’m still wrapping my head around the idea of swimming 1.2 miles, biking 56 miles, and then somehow topping it all off with a half marathon (running or maybe crawling that last 13.1 miles) for a grand total of 70.3 miles in one day.

Thankfully, I know I have a phenomenal group of friends and supporters cheering me on both near and far - and I also know I have a LOT of training ahead. I’m so grateful I have until April to figure out what I got myself into and start training like never before!

But…in the meantime, I’m borderline desperate for advice as I work on improving my swimming technique and figure out how to bike without, well… a sore butt. Please send good thoughts, better vibes, and all the advice you’ve got!

As if having Team Athletic by my side wasn’t already enough, I’m super, super thankful for my amazing friend who signed up for this adventure with me - having a buddy makes all the difference.

Here’s to new challenges, endless training, and taking on the unknown! Gulp!

PS. While you think about the good vibes and advice to send my way, please enjoy these photos of me blissfully swimming and biking around the world 😂

#athleticironmanjourney #willtriforathleticbrews #teamathletic #athleticbrewingambassador #athleticbrewingcompany #ironman #ironmanoceanside #everythinghappensforareason #GiveDryATry #FitForAllTimes #SoberOctober #brooksrunningcollective #letsrunthere #goodr #rungoodr #goodrflamboyance #HYPE

Athletic Brewing Company LLC. Milford, CT and San Diego, CA. Near Beer.

Malibu Moves Half Marathon 🏅✅

The course was really (really) hilly, but the views really made every mile and every incline worth it. Running along Pacific Coast Highway reminded me it’s no wonder this is one of the most scenic half marathons in the country! 🌊🏃‍♀️

So, so grateful to have friends by my side, both running and volunteering, making this inaugural event extra special!

A huge thank you and many kudos to the @malibumoves team, especially @erica.segel, for executing such an extraordinary event that celebrates runners and walkers of *all* abilities. #MoreThanJUSTaRunner

Of course @mrbentleycat and I ended the day with some well-earned relaxation and a dominating Buffalo Bills win to top it off, sorry not sorry #goBills 🦬

#MalibuMoves #BrooksRunningCollective #BrooksRunning #LetsRunThere #RunHappy #goodr #rungoodr #goodrFlamboyance #BillsMafia

Had a great time at the expo for the inaugural @malibumoves Half Marathon, 5k, and Kids Run today!! Being an ambassador for this race has been such a fun experience and I’m so excited to lace up my @brooksrunning (duh) shoes tomorrow morning to take on the half marathon, starting and finishing at stunning Zuma Beach! I can’t wait to take in all of the scenic views along the course! My “Flat Krista” picture will have to wait until tomorrow because I’m too indecisive for what color shirt I am going to wear… but in the meantime, how great is my the ambassador picture… “Hello, I’m Krista!” 🤪

#MalibuMoves #MoreThanJUSTaRunner #VisitMalibu #MalibuCA #ZumaBeach #BrooksRunningCollective #BrooksRunning #LetsRunThere #goodr #rungoodr #goodrFlamboyance

.pro-gallery-wix-wrapper {display: block !important;} .pro-gallery-wix-wrapper .gallery-item-container {opacity: 1 !important; display: block !important;}

Follow me on Instagram

@kristamuscarella

It's Always an Adventure...

Join our Mailing List for your National

Park Checklist & Site Updates

My Birthday... In South Pacific Paradise

Solo Adventures Presents... Virgin Islands National Park

#ChristaKrista+Jeremy: Northern California & Oregon National Parks

It's Always an Adventure: Florida National Parks

What to do Around Peru

Solo Adventures Presents… Iceland

Hoodoos, National Parks, and Adventures, Oh My!

Once in a Lifetime – North Coyote Buttes: THE Wave

'Lonely' in Seattle

#ChristaKrista TexMex National Park Trip

Canada, Part One: Vancouver, Garibaldi Provincial Park, & Whistler

Southwest Exploration, Part Two: Utah

Salt Lake City Spontaneity

52 Hike Challenge

Follow me on Instagram

It's Always an Adventure...

Join our Mailing List for your National

Park Checklist & Site Updates

My Birthday... In South Pacific Paradise

Solo Adventures Presents... Virgin Islands National Park

#ChristaKrista+Jeremy: Northern California & Oregon National Parks

It's Always an Adventure: Florida National Parks

What to do Around Peru

Solo Adventures Presents… Iceland

Hoodoos, National Parks, and Adventures, Oh My!

Once in a Lifetime – North Coyote Buttes: THE Wave

'Lonely' in Seattle

#ChristaKrista TexMex National Park Trip

Canada, Part One: Vancouver, Garibaldi Provincial Park, & Whistler

Southwest Exploration, Part Two: Utah

Salt Lake City Spontaneity

52 Hike Challenge

​

Follow me on Instagram