I Run Because... I Can

Weekly Round-Up

2012-01-31T20:50:00.000-08:00

Great things going on in the Blogworld

Challenges, Virtual Runs & Bloggy Swaps

If you head over to Shut Up & Run you can can sign up for the "Running for Sherry" Virtual Race.

Julie over at ROJ Running is hosting a blogger gift & card Valentine's Exchange.
Zaneta over at Runner's Luck is hosting a Valentine's Day Card Swap. I love a good bloggy swap so I'm in how about you???
Erica over at Life as a Running Mom is hosting a Leap Year Virtual Run it only happens once every 4 years so you don't wanna miss out. :)

The Detroit Runner is hosting the 2nd Annual " I Just Felt Like Running" Virtual Race
If you stop by Moms RUN This Town you can join their 2012 Challenge for Change. Each month they will have a different list of Fitness & Healthy Eating Challenges.

Whitney over at Live Run Love Yoga is running the Boston Marathon in April and you can help her raise money for her Team in Training team and as an added bonus be entered to win some great prizes.

Giveaways

The Studly Runner: Lucy 2/1
Tara Burner: Running Divas 2/3
I'm a Sleeper Baker: Bob Harper Kettlebell Workout 2/1
Running Diva Mom: Think Happy Stuff 2/2
Juice Boxes and Crayolas: Banjee Wrist Wallet 2/1
MissZippy: Viewsport 2/1
Cleveland's a Plum: Great Prize Pack 2/1
Running With The Girls: Handful Bra 2/??
Life as a Running Mom: Pampered Runner Giveaway 2/28
My Dirt Road Anthem: Handful 2/??
Chicago Runner Girl: Accessory Giveaway 2/6
Baby Weight My Fat Ass: Zipfizz 2/
Run to the Finish: Subway 2/3
The Happy Runner: Subway 2/2
Run On!: Chobani 2/5
Detriot Runner: Nuun 2/11

Happy Running and Have a Great Week!!!

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-25T19:38:00.000-08:00

My 9yr. old was not having a good day today ( I believe her best friend got upset with her because she wanted to play with another little girl at recess, and apparently for a 9yr. old it's a very big deal) Anyway so my other girls decided to make her this picture...

they put things they loved about her and stuff she likes (which explains the taco) to try and cheer her up. Even though they fight like crazy every now and then the come together to love on one another. :)

Never Ever Have I...

2012-01-24T08:03:00.000-08:00

..running edition

Though I have never played the above stated drinking game *wink, wink* I thought it would be interesting to do a post with similar but modified rules

I will state 5 running related thing that I have never ever done.. if you feel like playing along you can leave a comment letting me know which ones if any you have done (If your stickler for the rules feel free to take a shot for each, alcohol or electrolyte drink of your choosing )

And leave a "never ever have I.." statement of your own, which I will put in a post next week (make em good cause I am always looking for an excuse to make and take chocolate cake shots).

Okay so here goes...

1. Never ever have I done a marathon (oh yea a lot of u are drinking on that one)
2. Never ever have I peed or pooped anywhere other than a restroom during a run or race
3. Never ever have I puked after a race
4. Never ever have I lost or blackened a toenail as a result of running (but I am sure it will be a proud day when I do)
5. Never ever have I run in the snow

So there it is and I realize this list may be a little biased due to the fact that currently I'm just not that hardcore.

Weekly Round-Up

2012-01-23T12:29:00.000-08:00

I spend way to much time on Pinterest

Great things going on in the Blogworld

(If you posted a race report, have a giveaway and would like it linked let me please let me know)

Race Reports

I'd Rather Be Eating
Mom to Marathon
Zero to 26.2
Running Diva Mom
Running: My Anti-Drug
50 Marathons in 50 States
(Just) Trying is for Little Girls

Challenges, Virtual Runs & Bloggy Swaps

Julie over at ROJ Running is hosting a blogger gift & card Valentine's Exchange.
Zaneta over at Runner's Luck is hosting a Valentine's Day Card Swap. I love a good bloggy swap so I'm in how about you???
Erica over at Life as a Running Mom is hosting a Leap Year Virtual Run it only happens once every 4 years so you don't wanna miss out. :)

The Detroit Runner is hosting the 2nd Annual " I Just Felt Like Running" Virtual Race
If you stop by Moms RUN This Town you can join their 2012 Challenge for Change. Each month they will have a different list of Fitness & Healthy Eating Challenges.

Whitney over at Live Run Love Yoga is running the Boston Marathon in April and you can help her raise money for her Team in Training team and as an added bonus be entered to win some great prizes.

Giveaways

Running on Stilts: Chapelhil Bracelet 1/27
In Sweetness and in Health: Handful 1/26
Keep on Keeping On: Endorphin Warrior 1/31

The Winners of the Buy Pepper Spray Now Giveaway are.....

#10 Jen check her out at Running With The Girls
#42 Zaneta find her at Runner's Luck
#45 Sara from over at Words to Run By

Congratulations ladies please email me at ericarunning@hotmail.com with your shipping information and product choice.

Happy Running and Have a Great Week!!!

Still Going Strong

2012-01-22T20:56:00.000-08:00

So far so good I think starting over with the 5k plan was a good idea it is really easy to fit in a 30 min. run 3x a week and I the runs are comfortable and I always feel good afterward. My weeks are a little off though so tomorrow I will finish up week three and Tuesday start on week 4. Most of my mornings have been spent outside so no Zumba this week, but lots of Vitamin D.

This Week I am going to challenge myself to:

1. do the Lean Arms Pyramid every day this week.

Thanks to Courtney I found this on Pinterest

2. Drink no soda, I was going to say no soda or coffee but that's just crazy talk

Weekly Round-Up

2012-01-17T14:33:00.000-08:00

Great things going on in the Blogworld

(If you posted a race report, have a giveaway and would like it linked let me please let me know)

Race Reports

Running to Be Skinny
50 Marathons in 50 States
Canadian Runner in Exile
The Boring Runner
Slow is the New Fast
Run to the Finish
How I complicated my life today
Slow is the New Fast
Quadrathon
Gotta Run Now

Challenges, Virtual Runs & Bloggy Swaps

Julie over at ROJ Running is hosting a blogger gift & card Valentine's Exchange.
Zaneta over at Runner's Luck is hosting a Valentine's Day Card Swap. I love a good bloggy swap so I'm in how about you???
Erica over at Life as a Running Mom is hosting a Leap Year Virtual Run it only happens once every 4 years so you don't wanna miss out. :)
If you stop by Moms RUN This Town you can join their 2012 Challenge for Change. Each month they will have a different list of Fitness & Healthy Eating Challenges.

(Just) Trying is for Little Girls is hosting a "New to You" Cross Training Challenge.So if your looking for a challenge in 2012 stop by and check it out.

Whitney over at Live Run Love Yoga is running the Boston Marathon in April and you can help her raise money for her Team in Training team and as an added bonus be entered to win some great prizes.

Giveaways

Running With the Girl: Wrightsock 1/19

Rust Belt Runner: Lucy Activewear 1/25

Detroit Runner: Allied Medal 1/24

I Run Because...I Can: Buy Pepper Spray Today 1/20

Happy Running and Have a Great Week!!!

Feature Friday- Wrist Saver Pepper Spray Review & Giveaway

2012-01-13T21:11:00.000-08:00

You may or may not know this about me..but I have a ~~slightly~~ highly irrational fear of stray dogs and it is for this reason that when I do leave my treadmill and venture outside for a run 9 times out of 10 I run with pepper spray. For the last couple of years I have used my hot walkers which look conveniently like small hand weights and where perfect for my solo runs but not so perfect when I had to do stroller runs, so I was happy when Joseph from Buy Pepper Spray Today contacted me about reviewing a couple of their products, what can I say some women like heels I like non-lethal defense sprays.

Seriously though, thankfully I have never (knock on wood) had to use my spray I breathe little easier having it with me on my runs. Out of the three products I was able to review (The Wrist Saver,The Pepper Spray Jogger and their Muzzle Dog Mace) the Wrist Saver was my favorite and will become one of my long run companions during my upcoming 1/2 Marathon training, it is compact and fits comfortably on my wrist.My husband has started carrying the Muzzle Spray with him when he walks the dog because in the past he has had a couple of run ins with loose dogs. Carrying pepper spray is like wearing my Road ID or reflective gear while running in dark, a precaution...one you hope never becomes necessary to need but you just never know what could happen, and I don't believe you can ever be to cautious.

From the Company Website

"We try our best to create pepper spray for every situation manageable. If you are a person that likes to stay active then I am sure you have seen your share of dangerous incidents. According to the FBI, there is one aggravated assault every 37.8 seconds. Also, there is one forcible rape every 5.9 minutes. If there is an assailant that decides to do either, you are a main target because you are outdoors and helpless. Sure, you can try to outrun them, but I am sure they have planned it out. Even if it is not a person, it could be an aggressive pit-bull. All the time I see an elderly couple walking their small dog and I think, what if a giant dog starts running after their dog? You can pick your dog up but YOU are still defenseless."

A little about our products listed below...

Cycle Saver - It is a normal 1/2 ounce canister, but the reason that it is so special is because it comes with a bicycle attachment. Once it is attached, you will have easy access to your spray when you need it immediately.

Wrist Saver - 1/2 ounce canister, great for walking, hiking, or even working around the house. Comes with an I.D. Card to write down your personal information and has a built in LED Light.

Dog Mace - One of our more popular products. Great product to use against dogs because it is lower in OC meaning you won't cause that much damage to the dog, but enough to get away safely.

Pepper Spray Jogger - Built in a way you can get this spray and use it with ease. Manufactured by the popular Mace brand.

Hot Walkers - Used mainly for walking; built in weights and pepper spray so that you can exercise and protect yourself at the same time. You can also keep your jewelry in one of the canisters.

And with that I am happy to announce that 3 lucky readers will be able to win a pepper spray product of their own.

Win It!!!!
Thanks to the wonderful people over at Buy Pepper Spray Today 3 lucky readers will be able to win a Walking, Jogging, Running or Bicycle Spray of their choice

To Enter (mandatory entry):

~Visit the Buy Pepper Spray Today site here... and let me know which Walking, Jogging, Running or Bicycle Spray products you would choose if you won.

Extra Entries:

~Be a follower of this blog
~Tell me how you stay safe on your runs?
~Link back on your blog or share on your facebook (1 entry for each)

Please Leave a separate comment for each entry. Contest Ends Jan. 21st 12pm (PST). This Contest is open to U.S residents only, residents of MI, NY and MA can enter but will have to choose the Muzzle Dog Mace due to pepper spray state laws. Winners will be announced in a post and notified by email.

*I received products from the company to facilitate this review, all opinions expressed are my own.

Weekly Round-Up 1/11

2012-01-11T11:29:00.000-08:00

Great things going on in the Blogworld

(If you posted a race report, have a giveaway going on and would like it linked let me please let me know)

Race Reports

Westford Mommy

Challenges

If you stop by Moms RUN This Town you can join their 2012 Challenge for Change. Each month they will have a different list of Fitness & Healthy Eating Challenges.

(Just) Trying is for Little Girls is hosting a "New to You" Cross Training Challenge.So if your looking for a challenge in 2012 stop by and check it out.

Whitney over at Live Run Love Yoga is running the Boston Marathon in April and you can help her raise money for her Team in Training team and as an added bonus be entered to win some great prizes.

Giveaways

The Studly Runner: Aspaeris Pivot Shorts 1/11
The Hungry Runner Girl: Sunglasses Shop 1/??
Sweat Junkie: Zipfizz 1/14
Cows and Lasers and Everything...: Click 1/17
Third Time's A Charm: Zone Perfect 1/21
Goodlife Style: New Balance Shoe and Headphones 1/24
Running With Spatulas: Handful Bra 1/13
30 Something Mother Runner: Road ID 1/13
Ashley Running: GoSport ID $25 Giftcard 1/13
Endorphin Mom: Light a Fire Under Your Butt Giveaway & Raffle 1/31
Lindsay's List: RoadID 1/12

Happy Running and Have a Great Week!!!

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-11T10:11:00.000-08:00

I would like to thank everyone who commented on my "acceptance" post . I appreciate all your kind, supportive words so much so I printed them out and put them on my treadmill. So thanks for the inspiration, it was much needed.

Last Weeks workouts

2012-01-09T19:43:00.000-08:00

Monday Gardening: I spent the better part of the morning in the garden and the reason why I am including it in my workouts is because it required me to lift and carry 7 50lb bags of sand, 4 bags of rocks and 20 bricks from the truck to the backyard to put together a sand box area for kids that started like this...
to turn it in to this...
45 mins. of Zumba on Tuesday and Thursday

Kayla decided to give me a couple of tips and show me how to Zumba And three runs well run/walks according to my 5k training app. on Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday.
Week 2 here we go.

I Have Finally Moved onto Acceptance....

2012-01-07T21:53:00.000-08:00

...with my running ability or lack there of I have moved through the five stages of grief and finally moved fully into acceptance.

I started running (or back running since I did run in high school and a little in college) approx. 2 1/2 years ago and I was very excited about finding something that would keep me active and made me happy I signed up for a few 5ks, started a blog and made plans to run my first 1/2 marathon. I believe mainly out of fear (of not finishing or dying whichever came first) I trained very diligently for my first half and was proud when I finished. Fast forward a year later I have just finished my second and all those happy feelings I felt with the first are no longer there in the months prior to my run I was in complete and total

Stage 1. Denial I figured I had already done a 1/2 how much harder could it be do another on, my training for this one was a lot more relaxed I told myself even though I wasn't up to as many miles as I was the first one I could still do it and in my head I even told myself I could beat my current time and PR (like i said denial), needless to say no PR i did finish but I practically had to drag myself across the finish line... it was all bad. So after half marathon #2 I moved quickly from Denial to..

Stage 2. Anger with myself for not working as hard as I should have or could have. In the next few months following I moved through..

Stage 3. Bargaining with myself quite a bit of "if I did this workout than i could miss this workout or eat this junk" and around the holidays I moved in to..

Stage 4. Depression well more of a "slump" when it came to running and working out I had a lot of days where I was having a lot of what's the point?/do I really want?/Does is really matter if I workout today?/I can just do it tomorrow (and of course tomorrow never comes) conversations with myself which ended in me gaining weight and working out very little. I just couldn't get out of my own way and see the bigger picture and lost focus of the reasons behind why I had originally started running. Which were to be healthy, active,to feel better about myself and of course to practice what I preach and be an example to my daughters.
Now here we are, about a week ago I had a very real and truthful internal conversation which summed went pretty much like this:

Dear Erica I love you but you have gotten lazy, you have not been consistent with any type of working out for awhile, you would feel so much better and happier if you got your self back on track, and while it's true something is better than nothing it is going to take more that just "something" to get you to where you want be (which right now is a PR in my third 1/2 marathon in June and to ~~drop a couple, alright a few,~~ okay 20 lbs.) you are capable of doing it you just have to decide how much you want it

and with that in 2012 I have shook myself into the realization that some things have gotta change and made my way to..

Stage 5. Acceptance of where I am today. So, now I am in week one of 5k training plan which is 3 runs a week, I figure I have to start somewhere why not start at the beginning and to supplement the fact that I am not running that many miles I plan on doing some kind of cardio 3 times a week, this week it was Zumba.

So I don't know where I will be progress wise a month now but my hopes are i will be well on my way to a firm foundation for starting a 1/2 marathon training plan in April and consistently taking time out take care of myself by working out, hopefully what they saying is true and the third time's the charm.

I Woke Up and It was A New Year, Ready or Not...

2012-01-01T21:35:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a fabulous New's Year Eve/Day. New Year's Eve is one of the days that I truly appreciate the time difference between West Coast and East Coast it has been some years since I have actually rung in a New Years in California on actual west coast time it has become our tradition to watch the ball drop in New York at 9 pm and ring in then after that me and anyone under 13 are in bed. My oldest daughter usually has friends over and they stay until God know when (oh to be young). Now on to 2012 Goals/Resolutions

I am a believe in the power of writing down your goals, I make the girls do it at the beginning of every school year it's kind of neat to look back on. And though I write out alot of goals, accomplish a few and miss the mark on some of them it is good for me to know what I am working towards so here where my goals last year

So here we go again my 2011 Goals...

Running/Exercise/Workout Goals: Honestly not a lot of actual races this year so the only 1 I half achieved was running 1 half marathon.

~Run a 5k in under 30minutes
~Run my first 10k:
~Run at least 2 RnR 1/2 Marathons
~Run a 5k in under 25 mins.

Nutrition/Eating Habits: This I did do I have added a lot to my garden and even built the kids their own raised beds to plant in . :)

~Expand vegetable garden to include more veggies and get the kids more involved in planting and maintaining the garden.

Personal Growth: The girls schools schedules didn't work out how I had planned but I did volunteer when I could.

~Volunteer in some capacity either at one of the girls schools, after school program or something

Some Fun Stuff: We took to vacations 1 to San Diego and 1 to Las Vegas. No food festivals though, ;(

~Go to at least 1 food festival in California
~Take a 4 to 7 day vacation with my family

Now on to this years goals (I haven't actually given it much thought so I will add to the list over the first couple months of the New Year)

Running/Exercise/Workout Goals

~Run my first official 10k
~Run the San Diego RnR 1/2 Marathon in a better time than I did my first time.

Nutrition/Eating Habits

~Utilize my Vitamix for at least 1 fruit/vegetable juice daily.

Personal/Family

~At least 2 date nights a month (this is a big step up because we are lucky to go on one date every few months)
~ Start planning/saving for a vacation to Florida to visit my in-laws

Almost Wordless Wednesday- Merry Christmas

2011-12-21T06:48:00.000-08:00

Sorry sorry sorry that there was now Weekly Round-Up this week because I know there was some really great stuff going on but it has busy, busy, busy round here. Good busy, lots of baking, wrapping, menu planning, Christmas music and a little Zumba and I will probably be off the grid until after Christmas but I had to get a quick post in to thank all of my wonderful blogger swap buddies.

I have lots of new wonderful cards to put out this year

..and I have to say my Sock Swap Secret Santa was THE BEST she managed to stuff so much great stuff in a pair a socks it was amazing (I had to hide the junior mints from my husband)

So thank you, thank you, thank you everybody who had my name this year I love and appreciate it all, and in case you don't hear from me (which is very likely) until after the Christmas I want to wish every one a Very Happy Holiday.

As we struggle with shopping lists and invitations, compounded by December's bad weather, it is good to be reminded that there are people in our lives who are worth this aggravation, and people to whom we are worth the same.
-- Donald E. Westlake

Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect.
-- Oren Arnold

Weekly Round-Up

2011-12-13T22:00:00.000-08:00

So I got my Team Donner and Team Mistletoe Blogger Swap cards in the mail but after receiving my first two cards I apologize to both my teams for two reasons 1st my hand writing, I think i must have been a doctor in another life. and 2nd for not including anything besides a card and a short message the cards I received had trinkets and long thoughtful message I promise next year I will do better. I am hoping to get my Ornament and Sock Exchange things in the mail tomorrow.

Great things going on in the Blogworld

(If you posted a race report, have a giveaway going on and would like it linked let me please let me know)

Race Reports

Canadian Runner in Exile
Run to the Finish
Westford Mommy
Moments the Make a Life
Run Eat Repeat
Finallyfit2011
Life Began at Thirty
Falon Does Marathon
Tales of an Iron Housewife
Runner's Rambles
She Said I Need A Goal

Giveaways

Run Faster Mommy!:Fostermind 12/17
The Studly Runner: Planet Gear 12/17
Cows and Lasers and Everything in Between: Huge Giveaway 12/21
Shut Up + Run: GU 12/18
Jen's Adventures: Handful 12/16
Run Faster Mommy!: INKnBURN 12/19
The Athletarian: Eat Clean Books 12/24
RoadBunner: L.A Marathon Entry 12/19
Candian Runner in Exile: Milestone Jewelry 10/15

Happy Running and Have a Great Week!!!

Three Things Thursday

2011-12-08T22:29:00.000-08:00

1. I plan on spending as much time this weekend working on all my Christmas Blog Swaps, once I started receiving emails with my card, sock and ornament swap partners I was like whoa I have a lot a work to do in a week but I love me some swaps and I had to sign up for every one I could find so I am determined to get my stuff out by Wednesday. Did you sign up for any blogger holiday swaps? Have you gotten your stuff in the mail?

2. I have come to the conclusion I am a spring chicken when it comes to running Summer is to hot, Winter is to cold but Spring is just right. I have said all that to confess I haven't been running like I know I could don't get me wrong running is my workout of choice 8 times out of 10 but for some reason lately I just haven't been feeling it, but I haven't given up on exercise all together I am supplementing my miles with classes at my gym Zumba and Step Class are my winter friends along with the elliptical and running is completely off the table I am still planning on completing Tall Mom's Run December Challenge as well as The Boring Runners FYTO Virtual Race in January.

3. Is it me or is Christmas coming super fast this year usually by now I would have had all my gifts wrapped and perched by the tree, I would have figured out what new cookies I am going to try this year and would be sitting back enjoying Christmas music from dawn to dusk but instead half my list still isn't done (at this point I'm thinking gift cards) I have not found any new recipes (ideas??) and this year to make things less hectic (yea, right) I have volunteered to host our family dinner at my house. I am however enjoying my Holly XM and Pandora R&B and Pop Holiday stations daily, and I think Christmas music is sending subliminal messages because as much stress and disorganization as I am dealing with I still feel like it's the most wonderful time of the year :) So are you ready for Christmas??

Weekly Round-Up 12/6

2011-12-06T20:37:00.000-08:00

Sunday was my birthday and I was pleasantly surprised with a gift perfect for my gardening obsession ( I guess talking about my garden non-stop paid off) and an ice cream cake the only other thing that could have made the day better would have been eating that delicious cake after running the Las Vegas RnR 1/2 Marathon which sadly I did not get to do, but one day I tell you one day.

Great things going on in the Blogworld

(If you posted a race report, have a giveaway going on and would like it linked let me please let me know)

Race Reports

The Journey of a Running Green Girl
Pain, Pride and Perserverance
Cook Train Eat R ace
Runners Rambles
Running for Bling
5 Miles Past Empty
See Jess Run
Running: My Anti-Drug
Age Group Rocks
See How She Runs
Dash's Bites
One Run At A Time

Raffles, Fundraisers, Virtual Races, Challenges, etc.

If you head over to Daily Vitamin F. She has a Christmas and a New Year's Virtual 5k coming up.

There is still a few days left to drop you hat in the ring and participate in the Run With Jess 12 Days of a Fit Christmas. It's as simple as doing your normal daily workout and then stopping by and tell Jess what you did and your in.Online Shoes is doing a 12 Days of Giving Giveaways. A Giveaway everyday for the first 12 days of December all ya have to do is stop by and answer their Christmas question of the day and your entered.

Heather over at Run Faster Mommy!! is hosting the TNT Lousy Medal Virtual 5k/10k to raise money for TNT December 17th.

Giveaways

Running Diva Mom: Inview Designs Medal Display Case 12/15
Running Diva Mom: Chrissy Knee High Socks 12/11
Running in Real Life: Handful Bra 12/14
Barefoot Angie Bee: Sony W Series Mp3 Player 12/10
Tara Burner: Reinhardt Kettlebell System 12/19
30 Something Mother Runner: SPIBelt 12/12
Fit Crafty English Teacher: Headsweats 12/11
FitViews: Jackie Warner DVD 12/16
Running With The Girls: Tommie Copper 12/9
MissZippy: Endorphin Warrior 12/12
Daily Vitamin F: Tribute Sport 12/13
Just a Colorado Gal: Fashletics 12/12
Sweet and Savory: Headsweats 12/14
Hungry Runner Girl: Mizuno Running Shoes 12/12
Tara Burner: Body Rock Sport Bra 12/20
Early Morning Run: Season of Giving Giveaway 12/13

Happy Running and Have a Great Week!!!

Weekly Round-Up 11/29

2011-11-28T23:07:00.000-08:00

Great things going on in the Blogworld

(If you posted a race report, have a giveaway going on and would like it linked let me please let me know)

Race Reports

Words to Run By
Runner's Luck
Runner...Maybe
The Studly Runner
Amy Reinink
Slow is the New Fast
See Kitzzy Run
Running With Sass

Diary of An Average Man

My First 5k and More...
Westford Mommy

Raffles, Fundraisers, Virtual Races, Challenges, etc.

Visit Courtney at Third Time's A Charm Runner and join her Holiday Sock Swap. Sign up ends 12/2

Julie at ROJ Running is hosting a Holiday Ornament Exchange you have until Dec. 4th to sign up if your interested.

Heather over at Run Faster Mommy!! is hosting the TNT Lousy Medal Virtual 5k/10k to raise money for TNT December 17th.

Adam.. you know The Boring Runner is hosting his 2nd Annual Freeze Your Thorns Off 5k.

Jill over at Run With Jill is organizing her 2nd Annual Holiday Blogger Gift Exchange. Interested?? You have until Dec. 5th to sign up.

Zaneta over at Runner's Luck is hosting her 2nd Annual Christmas Card Swap. Who doesn't like a Christmas card?? Sign up open until 12/2
If you head over to (Just) Trying is for Little Girls there is still time to sign up for her blogger Holiday Card Exchange Signs end 11/27

Giveaways
Running To Health: Fuelbelt 12/3
Tall Mom on the Run: Gone for A Run 12/1
From FAT to FINISH LINE: Juicer 12/7
Running w/ Spatulas: Tommie Copper Sleeves 12/2
Journey in Running: Plain Clothes Runner 12/7

Happy Running and Have a Great Week!!!

Weekly Round-Up 11/22

2011-11-22T19:54:00.000-08:00

Great things going on in the Blogworld

(If you posted a race report, have a giveaway going on and would like it linked let me please let me know)

Race Reports

JerBear Shares
Journey to Health & Happiness
Rust Belt Runner
Happiness...One Mile At A Time
Runner's Luck
Running With Attitiude
It's What Moves Me

Raffles, Fundraisers, Virtual Races, Challenges, etc.

Heather over at Run Faster Mommy!! is hosting the TNT Lousy Medal Virtual 5k/10k to raise money for TNT December 17th.

Adam.. you know The Boring Runner is hosting his 2nd Annual Freeze Your Thorns Off 5k.

Jill over at Run With Jill is organizing her 2nd Annual Holiday Blogger Gift Exchange. Interested?? You have until Dec. 5th to sign up.

Zaneta over at Runner's Luck is hosting her 2nd Annual Christmas Card Swap. Who doesn't like a Christmas card?? Sign up open until 12/2
If you head over to (Just) Trying is for Little Girls there is still time to sign up for her blogger Holiday Card Exchange Signs end 11/27

Giveaways

Run with Jess: Pearl Izumi 11/24
Life in the Twin Lane: Handful 11/??
Running Through Life: Handful 11/25
The Boring Running: 1000th Post Giveaway 11/27
Falon does Marathon: Favorite Things Giveaway 11/30
Jenn's Adventures: Running Divas 11/28
Miles, Muscles & Mommyhood: Fashletics 11/30

Happy Running and Have a Great Week!!!

Here's to Christmas Wishing

2011-11-19T16:58:00.000-08:00

Last week I gave my two cents about products that have served me well this past year and so it is only fitting that with the Christmas quickly approaching I share with you my Christmas Wishlist (so I sure hope Santa blogs or at least reads blogs). And if you, happen to be out Black Friday or Cyber Monday shopping and come across one of the items on my list on sale and are in a giving mood feel free to add me to your Christmas list I will gladly email you my shipping address. :)

These to items non running related items are currently at the top of the list....

after those though I have a pretty full list of running gear I ~~need~~ want..

Like this Virawear tribal 13.1 running shirt

and these 110% Play Harder:Clutch Full-Length Tight

and this The Run Home wrap bracelet

also this Endorphin Warrior "Believe" training bracelet (it will go nicely with my "Focus" bracelet)and I can never have enough workout towels, preferably Inperspire

And I will finish up my list with a few Pearl Izumi pieces I would like to see in my winter running wardrobe.

Thermal Arm Warmers

Thermal Hat
Infinity Softshell Jacket

So what are you hoping Santa will leave under the tree this year??

Just a little sidebar but if you do any of your holiday shopping online I encourage you to check out iGive.com it is a charitable search engine. Choose your favorite charity, shop and the organization receives a contribution based on the amount of your purchase. I have my account set up with Soles4Souls as my charity I choice.

An actual running related post, it's been awhile.

2011-11-17T09:07:00.000-08:00

Let me start out with a little running news, despite how long it's been since I actually had any running to talk about this is still a "running" blog. Last weekend soccer ended and a two days later my husbands schedule at work changed so now he has Saturday mornings off and I was sitting in my room on Tuesday and it hit me Saturday mornings are open, I took it as a sign that I need to get on it and pencil myself in some races while I can so I have, I have signed on for a local Reindeer Run on Dec. 10th and my first 10k on Jan. 7th and of course I am signed on for Adam's FYTO Virtual 5k Jan. 28th.

This week I have gotten in 2 short runs 3 miles on Monday and 4 miles last night if I can squeeze in at least 1 more run and one class this week I will consider this week a success.

How is your week going? Are you planning on running a Thanksgiving or Holiday races?

Almost Wordless Wednesday

2011-11-16T08:03:00.000-08:00

I am in charge of desserts at Thanksgiving and this is my first attempt at making a Rustic Apple pie recipe that I found in Woman's Day Magazine (you can see what it's supposed to look at here...) though my creation lacks in appearance it still tasted really good, so I figure a couple more test runs and I will have it perfected for Thanksgiving.

I am looking for a few more dessert ideas so if you have any good recipes please, please share??

Weekly Round-Up

2011-11-15T19:45:00.000-08:00

Great things going on in the Blogworld

(If you posted a race report, have a giveaway going on and would like it linked let me please let me know)

Race Reports

Balls in the Air
Absolut(ly) Fit
From FAT to FINISH LINE
Don't Drown, Don't Fall, Run Fast!
The Happy Runner
Age Groups Rock
Cows and Lasers and Everything in Between

Raffles, Fundraisers, Virtual Races, Challenges, etc.

Zaneta over at Runner's Luck is hosting her 2nd Annual Christmas Card Swap. Who doesn't like a Christmas card?? Sign up open until 12/2
If you head over to (Just) Trying is for Little Girls there is still time to sign up for her blogger Holiday Card Exchange Signs end 11/27

Amanda at Run to the Finish is once again hosting her Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge.

Giveaways

Run On!: Spiband 11/17
Tara Burner: Go Sport ID 11/19
Long Legs on the Loose: Shutterfly 11/18
(Just) Trying if for Little Girls: Tommie Copper 11/23
Miss Zippy: BTB sunglasses 11/22
The Athletarian: Gel Bot 11/21
Cows and Lasers..: Fuelbelt 11/21
Hungry Runner Girl: $100 Lululemon Gift Card 11/21
Jenn's Adventure: Tommie Copper 11/??
Running Around my kitchen: Wrightsock 11/20

Happy Running and Have a Great Week!!!

These are a few of my favorite things 2011

2011-11-11T13:32:00.000-08:00

With the year coming to an end and the holidays fast approaching I felt a post about some of therunning products I love was appropriate. The following are some of products I have used pretty religiously over the last year for workouts & runs, in no particular order.They are my go to products. These are the things that have worked best for me. They are the products I found to be the best fitting, most comfortable, durable, most useful and some of my biggest running necessities, so in short...

These are few of my favorite things. :)

Hats
Headsweats Race Hat

Find them on:
Facebook here...
Twitter here...

Endorphin Warrior Conquer

Find them on:
Facebook here...
Twitter here...

Bags:
GoLite Travelite Tote: I have had this bag a little over a year and it has been through everything trips to the gym, beach, soccer games. I have used it as a diaper bag, gym bag and just an everyday use bag when I have all the kids, and it is still in perfect condition no tears or broken zippers and the material it's made of make it perfect for me to throw it in the wash and then I just air dry it when it gets dirty. So this bag is well worth the money.

Find them on:
Facebook here...

High Sierra Switch Blade Duffle: I originally wanted this bag for race day to carry all my stuff and though I was able to use it a couple times it has almost exclusively become my husbands bag for basketball and has made it through a year of basketball leagues and tournaments and survived.

Find them on:
Facebook here..
Twitter here...

Bras: When it comes to the girls they need all the lift and support they can gets and both of these bras fit great and make the girls look good.
Kalyx Uplift Bra

Find them on:
Facebook here...
or twitter here...

Handful Bra

Find them on:
Facebook here...

Shirts:
One More Mile Running: Since I wouldn't consider myself a competitive runner, this company make race day a little fun.

Find them on:
Facebook here...

Oiselle Long Run Tee: Great running shirt for those colder days.

Find them on:
Facebook here...
Twitter here...

GU: Well this is a given, it is no secret I am a fan of GU and any given time you will find an assortment of gels and brew in my possesssion.

Find them on:
Facebook here...
Twitter here...

Inperspire workout towels: I never make a trip to the gym or to a race day without my own workout towel and the Inperspire ones I own are my favorite. A little extra motivation never hurt.

Find them on:
Facebook here...
Twitter here...

Road ID: Safety First.. this is one of those better to have it and not need it, than to not have it and need it type of items. I wear it out on all of my runs, it gives me peace of mind because you just never know.

Find them on:
Facebook here...
Twitter here...

SpiBelt: Many belt have tried and failed to win my heart the way my Spibelt has.

Find them on:
Facebook here...
Twitter here...

Recovery Socks: My calves say "thank you"

Find them on:
Facebook here...

Endorphin Warrior Training Bracelet:My favorite daily accessory and a quick reminder to stay focused on the bigger picture.

Find them on:
Facebook here...
Twitter here...

Nalgene Multidrink Waterbottle: I would also recommend if you have little ones their Grip n'Gulp.

Find them on:
Facebook here...
Twitter here...

I am looking for ideas to add to my Christmas Wishlist so please let me know what products you loved in 2011???

Weekly Round-Up 11/8

2011-11-08T20:02:00.000-08:00

Great things going on in the Blogworld

(If you posted a race report, have a giveaway going on and would like it linked let me please let me know)

Race Reports

The Skinny Runner
Running with Attitude
Morning Runner
Runner's Rambles
Chasing Atalanta
Lazy Bones Running
Kristin Running
Running to Boston
Running: My Anti-Drug
Carrots 'N Cake
Racing with Babes
Make a run for it
Am I a runner...or just crazy

Raffles, Fundraisers, Virtual Races, Challenges, etc.

Karen over at ....Just Me and My Running Shoes is hosting a raffle to raise money for the American Cancer Society's DetermiNation team. Great prizes, great cause. :)

Amanda at Run to the Finish is once again hosting her Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge.

Giveaways

The Studly Runner: YMX Tank and Leggings 11/17
Running Diva Mom: Traffic Talk 11/14
Running Diva Mom: I Like Book 11/12
My Dirt Road Anthem: ZippFizz 11/11

Happy Running and Have a Great Week!!!

Almost Wordless Wednesday 11/2

2011-11-02T08:51:00.000-07:00

The girls and I played around with making ornaments from this really simply recipe I found on familyfun.com and just used small cookie cutter to get the shapes. It was really easy and the girls had a good time so I am thinking about making little ornament gift tags this year and also decorating a front door wreath with the ones the extras the girls made. It was such a cute and easy craft I thought I would share.