
With gyms closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many Northeast Ohio residents are struggling to keep fit. From YouTube videos to push-up and squat challenges, those who want to stay in shape have certainly found some creative outlets to do so.
For runners, a virtual 5K race is a fun and exciting way to enjoy the camaraderie of race day while still staying socially distant. How does it work? You simply register ahead of time, then, on the day of the race, run or walk in any place you choose. Your medal will be shipped directly to you!
Sound like fun? You're in luck! There's certainly no shortage of upcoming virtual races in the local area. For each of these races, you can complete your run (or walk) any time between the start and end dates. Unless otherwise noted, you may also choose between a 1-mile, 5K, 10K, half-marathon, or marathon run. You'll time yourself, and race officials will ask you to send them your time. The prices include your medal, race bib, and shipping.
Now that you know how everything works, here are a few you may want to check out.
Sunday, May 10th at 7 pm - Sunday, May 31st at 9 pm
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This very special virtual race is being held in honor of Zach Sobiech, who wrote the song "Clouds" when he was dying of osteosarcoma at only 18 years old. The cloud-themed medal was made to honor his legacy and his "anthem of hope."
This race is held in May, to celebrate Zach's birthday, and 15% of the registration fee will be donated to the Zach Sobiech Osteosarcoma Funds.
Saturday, May 16th at 7 pm - Sunday, May 31st at 9 pm
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You might not be able to give out real hugs right now, but you can virtually celebrate National Hug Day. For this race, 15% of the fees will go to the HUGS (Help Us Give Smiles) Foundation, Inc., an organization that gives free medical care to children and adolescents who have a cleft palate, cleft lip, microtia, and other facial deformities.
You can also purchase an official race t-shirt or hoodie if you want to show extra support!
Saturday, June 13th at 7 pm - Saturday, August 29th at 8 pm
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Did you know that National Toilet Paper Day is coming up on August 26th? Considering the craziness surrounding this essential product, it's only appropriate that a race is held in honor of it.
A minimum of 30% of your $22 entry fee will go to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund through the World Health Organization. This charity helps provide frontline healthcare workers with essential supplies and supports research to speed the discovery of diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines.
Saturday, June 13th at 7 pm - Wednesday, September 30th at 8 pm
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One of the most essential, and under-recognized workers during the COVID-19 pandemic is the nation's truck drivers. These are the people who ensure that we're able to get food and critical medical supplies to the places that need them. Help support them by registering for the Get Truckin' 5K.
Thirty percent of each registration goes to the St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund. For a limited time, you can also purchase a limited-edition t-shirt or hoodie.
Saturday, June 20th at 7 pm - Sunday, August 23rd at 9 pm
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On January 26th of this year, the world lost the great Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna. This race is held in his honor. The distances for this race are slightly different. Choose from a 2-mile, 8K (4.97 miles), or 24K (14.91 miles) run or walk. These numbers were chosen for Gianna's jersey numbers (2, 8, and 24).
At least 34% of the registration cost will be donated to an organization that Bryant was passionate about After School All-Stars. You can also purchase an official t-shirt or hoodie.
Sunday, June 21st at 7 pm - Tuesday, June 30th at 9 pm
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Celebrate the important dads in your life and get a fun superhero medal! Run in honor of Dad, give the medal to him, or purchase an extra one to give as a gift.
The registration is $22 and15% of the fee to Team Hoyt, which works with disabled and physically challenged young people to help build their self-esteem, character, and confidence. If you'd like, you can also purchase a commemorative t-shirt or hoodie.
Saturday, June 27th at 7 pm - Monday, August 31st at 9 pm
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In honor of the 6-foot social distancing recommendations, this race features a medal that reads "We're all in this together, but six feet apart." At least 30% of all proceeds from this race's registration will go toward supporting Feeding America, which supports food banks across the country.
Thursday, August 20th at 7 pm - Mon. Nov. 30th at 9 pm
This race is held in celebration of World Children's Day, which occurs on November 20th. Registration for this event is $22 and 25% of this goes to support Feeding America.
Which of these awesome virtual 5K races are you going to do?

Let's be honest — these last few weeks have been tough on everyone.
To say that COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, has disrupted life around the world is an understatement. Within a matter of weeks, our everyday lifestyles were completely altered in unprecedented ways — so much so that the CDC recommends that all men, women, and children wear protective masks over their mouth and nose when leaving the house. This is, understandably, a scary reality for all of us, but it's an especially frightening way of life that our essential workers have to adopt.
At Cutler Real Estate, we want to support our family members, friends, neighbors, and service workers in the communities throughout Northeast Ohio in any way we can. One way that we can unite and proactively slow the spread of coronavirus is to make, wear, and donate homemade masks. You can make these masks from many items that you already have in your home. Let's go over a few ways that you can make these masks at home, why you can protect yourself by wearing them in public, and how do donate these masks and other vital medical supplies to facilities around Northeast Ohio.
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Sadly, there are thousands of confirmed coronavirus cases in Ohio. Until widespread accessibility to testing, more effective treatment options, and a better understanding of the virus itself become a reality, we need to take every opportunity we can to slow the spread. This means practicing social distancing by staying in our homes as much as possible and always wearing a protective mask whenever we leave home.
Although the virus itself is microscopic and can pass through most face coverings, the virus often attaches itself to water molecules that come out of our noses and mouths when we sneeze or cough. Many types of fabric can effectively contain most of these molecules, which means any type of face covering is better than none at all.
While officials ask that all non-medical personnel refrain from purchasing the N95 surgical masks and procedure masks so that our healthcare workers who come in contact with this virus on a daily basis have access to them, the CDC encourages all individuals to make their own face masks. Currently, JOANN fabric and craft stores across the nation have free tools, supplies, and guidance available for anyone wanting to make masks. Many other businesses and organizations around Northeast Ohio are also providing supplies to those who want to join the effort and support the community.
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There are two ways that you can make a homemade mask, the first of which is to sew one. Here are the abridged UH-approved steps to make your own (full directions and materials needed available at this link).
An alternative way that you can make a mask is with a simple pair of scissors. While you can use any fabric on-hand, it's suggested that you use at least two layers of cotton. A bandana, old shirt, or pillowcase are good options. You can fold and tie these fabrics around your face, with or without a filter inserted into the center. You can also cut out ear holes or use ties, rubber bands, or other straps to secure it around your face.
Ideally, this fabric will completely cover your face from the bridge of your nose down underneath your chin. It shouldn't restrict your breathing or speaking, but it must be thick enough to prevent water molecules from passing through the fabric. Please also remember to refrain from touching the front of your mask as that could place your hands in contact with the virus, which you could potentially spread to other parts of your face or to others you come in contact with.
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You have the option of either disposing of your mask or washing it in the washing machine for safe reuse. If you're social distancing, you'll ideally only need to wear your mask a limited number of times throughout our quarantine. Unfortunately, our healthcare workers are constantly exposed to potentially infected patients which means their supply usage is drastically higher.
Believe it or not, healthcare workers in Ohio will use 13 N95 face masks, 14 protective gowns, and 36 pairs of medical gloves while caring for a patient in the Intensive Care Unit over a 24-hour period. As potential new coronavirus cases continue to rise, as well as the daily need for medical care not associated with the virus, our healthcare workers will need more masks than ever before.
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There are dozens of medical facilities around the area that desperately need masks. Here are a few that you can send homemade masks and other supplies to right now:
If you know of any other healthcare or frontline facilities that need masks or other vital medical supplies for their essential workers, please tell us in the comments below.

Are you feeling cooped up at home and need a bit of fresh air? Take advantage of Stark County's beautiful outdoor spaces and go for a relaxing walk. We're surrounded by picturesque trails that offer unspoiled areas where we can clear our heads and forget about life for a while. Spend a few hours strolling these Northeast Ohio walking trails and parks.
1305 Stadium Park Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44708
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The West Branch Trail, running along the West Branch of the Nimishillen Creek, is a fantastic trail to walk if you want to get up close and personal with a few Stark County landmarks. This trail is just under four-and-a-half miles long and connects to seven parks, including what once was Mother Goose Land and Covered Bridge Park. Great for running, biking, hiking, or walking your dog the West Branch Trail
Lake Lucerne Trailhead, 7975 Erie Ave. NW, Canal Fulton, OH 44614
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While you may not want to walk the full 25 miles of the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, you can explore the Congressman Ralph Regula trail at one of 14 trailheads. We suggest taking on the Canal Fulton northern section at the Lake Lucerne Trailhead. This trailhead offers a convenient place to park and walk then cast a line when your return.
4679 South Blvd. NW, Canton, OH 44718
Get off of the beaten path and get close to wildlife at the Devonshire Park and Trail. This trail extends only a little longer than a half of a mile and runs on mowed grass to offer an easy opportunity for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. Fishing is also permitted at this park, but these conservation lands are also great for children to enjoy with their parents.
Hoover Community Recreational Complex, 1325 E. Maple St., North Canton, OH 44720
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Although the recreation complexes may be unavailable, you can still find plenty of space to roam on the Hoover Trail. Park at the Hoover Community Recreational Complex and walk along the 5-mile trail that connects with other areas of the Hoover District. Animal sightings are common along this trail during all seasons, so be sure to take it slow and keep your eyes open!
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If you've ever wanted to get a closer look at the Mahoning River, head over to the Mahoning Valley Trail. You can start your hike on this scenic trail at the Deer Creek Reservoir and enjoy a 4-mile walk over boardwalks, bridges, and along the Mahoning River. There are a few picnic areas around the trailhead as well where you can have lunch as well.
2923 Pinevale Ave. NE, Louisville, OH 44641
The Nickel Plate Trail is a great mix of urban and rural landscapes. Stretching four miles with its recently added section, most of this trail is unpaved gravel or unimproved natural surface, making it a little more of a challenge than a typical stroll would entail. There are often horses on the trail, and with private property surrounding much of the area, it's best to remain on the trail and stay visible to other passersby.
2600 Harvard Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44709
Another small trail in the Canton area, the Pioneer Trail is just over one-mile long and takes hikers towards the campus of Malone University. Unlike some of the flatter trails of the area, the Pioneer Trail features inclines and declines throughout, making it a good trail for runners, more active hikers, and bikers.
262 Maple St., Waynesburg, OH 44688
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For those who would like to get a few laps in, the Waynesburg Park Loop Trail is perfect. Short and sweet, this trail circles the park. You can add three-quarters-of-a-mile to your exercise by walking the Sandy Valley Trail.
2069 Skyland Ave. NW, Massillon, OH 44647
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A much longer trail that connects to the Towpath Trail, the Sippo Valley Trail stretches ten miles. It begins as an asphalt trail but does transition to limestone farther down. You'll walk parallel to Sippo Creek, and most of the trail is relatively flat, offering a simple but long trek between the trailheads.
1141 W. Beech St., Alliance, OH 44601
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Once a railroad right-of-way, the Iron Horse Trail now offers four-and-a-half miles of biking and hiking space for people and their pets. With a trailhead at the First Christian Church and an adjacent neighborhood, the Iron Horse Trail is convenient for Alliance families to access.
1819 Mahoning Road NE, Canton, OH 44705
Cook's Lagoon is a popular fishing hole, but it's a nice walking trail with benches and an easy walk for those who want to stroll at their own pace.
7900 Columbus Rd. NE, Louisville, OH 44641
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Get your fill of trails at Molly Stark Park. In the process of becoming a 35-acre park with hiking trails, gardens, and plenty of outdoor space to explore, Molly Stark Park is a great place to find fresh air close to home. Be sure to research the history and mysteries of the Molly Stark Park building to understand why it was a significant hospital for the treatment of Tuberculosis.
Where do you love to get away and embrace a nature hike? Tell us in the comments below.

With many businesses in Northeast Ohio shut down, and "social distancing" in full effect, it's time to start getting creative about finding things to do. Productive hobbies are becoming more popular, and taking up knitting is a great choice.
If this appeals to you, then you'll be glad to know that there are plenty of ways you can learn to knit online. Once you're ready, you can support the local area knitting shops that so desperately need your business right now. Here are some tips for getting started and a few of our favorite stores in Northeast Ohio and beyond.
There are plenty of online resources where you can learn to knit. Start by checking out some YouTube channels, like AllFreeKnitting or Craftsy Knitting. If you prefer a more structured class style, you may want to take a look at the classes on websites like SkillShare or Instructables.
Once you've got the basics down, you'll want to visit the websites for some of the area's best knitting stores. Here are a few of our favorite Ohio stores where you can shop for all of your knitting needs.
1387 Sloane Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
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River Colors Studio carries a huge selection of gorgeous yarn. They also have all the materials you'll need to start your knitting projects including needles, hooks, accessories.
Check out their selection of patterns, including some great free ones that are perfect for beginners. You may also want to order a few publications, like Pom Pom Quarterly and Mason-Dixon Field Guides. These are a great way to learn more about your new hobby.
100 North Main St. Suite 230, Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
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A fun, boutique-style shop, The Artful Yarn carries an internationally-curated selection of yarns. They currently offer curbside pick-up, limited-distance delivery, and 2-day USPS shipping. You can order over the phone and even video chat via FaceTime. They have some inventory online and will be expanding their online offerings very soon.
On March 30th, they're starting a "Magical Mystery Knit" that you can join right from the comfort of your home. Sign up for their email list or follow them on social media so you can keep up on all the latest news and updates.
129 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
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Harps & Thistles Yarn Emporium carries an eclectic selection of yarns and prides itself in offering reasonable prices. You'll love browsing through their gorgeous yarns, and you can also find all of the needles, hooks, bags, and accessories you need.
If you're a beginner, check out the "Yharma's Basement Clearance" section. This is a great way to stock up on supplies without breaking the bank.
12620 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44120
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You'll find everything you need to get creative with your knitting projects at Fine Points. They specialize in unique yarns and offer kits that have all the materials you need to make a specific project. They also carry needles and accessories, patterns, books, jewelry, and more.
15708 Lorain Ave, Cleveland, OH 44111
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Destination Yarn is an independent shop that hand-dyes their yarn onsite. It's easy to lose yourself in their website, where you can shop by yarn type, dye technique, or collection. They also sell lots of great kits for sweaters, shawls, and pullovers and fun gifts for other knitting-lovers in your life.
13572 Chillicothe Road, Novelty, OH 44072
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Fiber Addiction carries a wide variety of brand-name yarns including Euro, Berroco, and Cascade. They also offer products from indie dyer Cornbread & Honey. In response to recent events, they're offering individual appointments for those who want to come shop in person, or you can shop online. In addition to yarn, they also carry a fun selection of bags, books, notions, needles, and hooks.
You can get some great deals right now, including free shipping through April 15th. They also offer pick-up orders for those who live nearby.
Other shops around Ohio worth checking out online:
1200 Rock Road, Mansfield, OH 44903
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Do you want to make a truly luxurious knitting project? If so, then you'll want to pay a visit to Alpaca Meadows' website. These Ohio residents have a happy herd of alpacas that provide a limited amount of fiber each year. It's either processed on-site or by a local mill. Alpaca yarn is incredibly soft. It's also warm, comfortable, durable, hypoallergenic.
If you see something you like, make sure to stock up, because once it's gone, it's gone. Not sure what to do with alpaca yarn? Take a look at some of their beautiful patterns as well!
1 N. Main St., Mt Vernon, OH 43050
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The Makery also carries a wide selection of hand-dyed, hand-spun yarns and fair trade fiber. You can choose from a variety of materials, including alpaca, cotton, bamboo, linen, silk, wool, and more. They also carry needles, hooks, and notions.
Need some inspiration? Check out some of their super-cool books with many interesting ideas. They also carry fun craft kits designed especially for kids, so if you're home-schooling right you, you'll definitely want to check this out as well.
35 S. High Street in Dublin, Ohio 43017
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For a wide selection of yarn at a variety of price points, as well as needles, buttons, and books, you'll definitely want to take a look at Knitting Temptations' website. They carry many popular brands and you can keep yourself on-budget by shopping by price range.
Don't have a ton of money to spend right now? Create an account and build a wish list! This way, when you're ready to move on to future projects, you'll already have your shopping list ready!
217 South B St., Hamilton, OH 45013
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Lambikin's Hideaway is a local yarn store that prides itself on offering amazing customer service, fair prices, and a huge selection of yarn. Here you'll find a variety of options including lace, fingering, sport, DK, worsted, bulky, and super bulky yarn. While you're on the website, don't forget to subscribe to their newsletter to stay in the loop about their latest classes, promotions, and specials.
What kind of knitting project are you looking forward to trying first?

When you need a breath of fresh air far from the city crowds, you'll find ample space to roam in Columbus. With many miles of bike paths and trails, our city has a lot to offer for anyone who loves the great outdoors.
Columbus is also a major hub for state-wide trails and greenways, some of which stretch for hundreds of miles across the Buckeye State. These bike paths in the Columbus area offer ample opportunities to get outside, get in shape, and simply enjoy the greener side of Central Ohio.
Three Creeks Metro Park, 3860 Bixby Road, Groveport, OH 43125
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A favorite multi-use trail that stretches roughly 25 miles across Franklin County, the Alum Creek Trail offers a well-maintained hard surface for hikers and cyclists. The trail follows the picturesque Columbus river corridor, from Westerville to Three Creeks Park, passing through several parks and neighborhoods along the way. Construction on the trail was completed in 2015, and the Alum Creek Trail has quickly become the go-to destination for Columbus residents looking to get outside.
Whetstone Park, 3901 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43210
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The Olentangy Trail is a great place to go for a bike ride, but for many first-time visitors to Columbus, its central location makes it one of the most popular ways to explore the city on foot. The trail connects the community of Worthington to downtown Columbus, meandering through several neighborhoods along the banks of the Olentangy River. Along the way, the Olentangy Trail passes through the Ohio State University campus, with trailheads at Whetstone Park as well as several other major city parks.
Scioto Trail Park, 2951 S. High St. Columbus, OH 43207
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The first greenway ever built in Columbus, the Scioto Trail has been a treasured resource for hikers and cyclists in the city since 1976. It's still a favorite local bike path, with sections on either side of the Scioto River, including the downtown riverfront, where you can get a great view of the Columbus skyline. The most well-known section of the path is the Scioto Mile, which includes a string of prominent parks, promenades, and landmarks. Near the south edge of Downtown Columbus, the trail traverses the beautiful Scioto Audubon Park, including a trailhead at the Audubon Nature Center. The Scioto Trail also directly connects to the Olentangy Trail.
7262 Hayden Run Road, Hilliard, OH 43026
Following an old abandoned rail line from Old Hilliard to Cemetery Pike, the Heritage Trail one of the less-used bike paths in the Columbus area. That makes it a great place to beat the crowds, although the Heritage Dog Park at one end of the trail does make it a popular spot for dog walking. Paved, well maintained, and easy to follow, it's a great place for an afternoon bike ride, passing through about 7 miles of fields and farmlands just outside Columbus.
Three Creeks Metropark, 3860 Bixby Road, Groveport, OH 43125
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Running parallel to its namesake creek for most of its 18-mile length, the Blacklick Creek Greenway stretches from Reynoldsburg to Groveport on the southeastern edge of Columbus. There are several parks and trails in the Columbus area where you can hop on the Blacklick Creek Greenway, but a favorite spot is Three Creeks Metro Park. This park marks the spot where the Alum, Big Walnut, and Blacklick creeks join; and it's also home to sections of both the Blacklick Creek Greenway and the Alum Creek Greenway.
Chestnut Ridge Metro Park, 8445 Winchester Road NW, Carroll, OH 43112
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While many of Columbus' bike paths are great for easy rambles along relatively flat, paved trailways, the mountain bike trail at Chestnut Ridge Metro Park offers something a little more extreme. Just a few miles southeast of Columbus, Chestnut Ridge is actually the first ridge of the Appalachian Mountains, and the Chestnut Ridge Mountain Bike Trail is a great place for an intense mountain biking experience. The trail runs a little over 9 miles through deep woods, with many steep climbs and descents, along with a few bridges and some steep, banked turns. The trail is divided into two loops, one for beginner to intermediate mountain bikers, and the other for experienced cyclists only.
Inniswood Metro Gardens, 940 S. Hempstead Road, Westerville, OH 43081
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The Big Walnut Trail stretches a little over 10 miles through several Columbus area parks, including Inniswood Metro Gardens, a lovely botanical garden and nature preserve that's open free of charge seven days a week to the general public. Popular for jogging and dog walking as well as biking, the Big Walnut Trail is a paved multi-use trail that also offers expansive views of Hoover Reservoir and the parks along the lakeshore.
Battelle Darby Creek Metropark, 1775 Darby Creek Dr, Galloway, OH 43119
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Just over 16 miles long, the Camp Chase trail runs between the cities of London and Columbus, acting as a connector between Madison and Franklin counties. The trail is relatively level and easy for biking, consisting of paved double-track that follows the course of a railroad line. In addition to being a great biking spot for Columbus residents, the Camp Chase Trail is also a crucial link in the much longer Ohio to Erie Trail, which stretches 326 miles across the state of Ohio from southwest to northeast.
Did we forget to mention your favorite trail? Be sure to let us know in the comments section!