Women's Endurance Gear - Family, Fitness and Food

Midweek Motivation - Mindset is Everything

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Wed, 06 Jan 2016 15:48:00 +0000

Mindset is everything.

After the holidays, and not running consistently during break, my last couple of runs have not been easy. During summer running camp one of Gaigai's coaches said to always go out with the mindset of running the entire route. This morning I channelled my inner Gaigai, headed out with the mindset of running the entire run and had an awesome run! I also had a ton to get done before work, so no time to walk. :)

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Happy New Year's Eve!

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Thu, 31 Dec 2015 13:41:00 +0000

Celebrate with friends old and new,

and reflect back on the wonderful memories that each year has brought...

Segura Viudas presents

Have a happy and safe New Year's Eve!

Ringing in 2016 Safely with Your Dog

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Tue, 29 Dec 2015 11:00:00 +0000

Our dogs were never fans of fireworks and loud noises, especially as puppies. Trying to keep them calm, relaxed and safe was always a priority. Here are some tips to ring in 2016 safely with your furry friends!

New Year’s Eve is the night we say goodbye to the old and welcome the new. It’s an evening to enjoy and de-stress from the holiday season. While you may be looking forward to having a good time, there’s one member of your family who doesn’t quite care - your dog. In fact, most dogs just don’t like New Year’s Eve because of all the loud noises associated with it. Even the best dog fence can’t contain a dog who’s suddenly frightened by fireworks. Here’s some information on how you can ring in 2016 with your dog as safely as possible.

Separate Your Dog from the Party

If you’re having a party or gathering at your home, your dog may be even less excited by New Year’s Eve. Because dogs have such sensitive ears, they tend to dislike large groups of people, loud music, noisemakers, and the like. Your dog will appreciate being kept away from the party, so use a spare room, gate, or invisible dog fence to separate them from the action. This will make things much easier on your dog’s ears. If you’re going out, leave your dog at home.

Keep Your Dog Away from the Fireworks

You should never bring your dog with you to any fireworks displays, and you should keep your dog indoors if you can hear them from your house. If your neighbors might set off fireworks, keep your dog inside. It’s also dangerous for dogs to be outside if you’re setting off fireworks, because your dog could unexpectedly move into the path of a rocket and become seriously injured or killed. If people are going in and out of your house throughout the night, consider using a gate or wireless dog fence in the doorway to ensure your dog can’t escape through an open door.

Don’t Leave Alcohol or Snacks Within Reach

Alcohol is toxic to all living creatures, and it’s especially toxic to animals like dogs. Never allow your dog to drink alcoholic beverages, and do whatever you can do keep them out-of-reach. Ask your guests not to leave their cups unattended, because your dog may try to taste them, especially if the alcohol is mixed with anything sweet. Snacks can also become choking hazards, make your dog sick, or even cause life-threatening illnesses, so make sure guests know not to feed your dog or leave their plates unattended.

Keep Your Dog on a Leash When Outdoors

If you do have to bring your dog outside, always keep them on a leash. Make sure their collar fits them properly, too, so they can’t slip out of it. If your dog hears a noise that scares them, they can react unpredictably, including making a run for it. If you rely on an electronic dog fence to keep your dog in your yard, realize that your dog may disregard the boundaries if they become very afraid. Do not leave your dog tethered on a leash, however; always make sure you are holding the leash so your dog cannot choke themselves or get tangled in it.

Give Your Dog a Quiet Room to Sleep In

The kindest thing you can do for your dog on New Year’s Eve is give them a quiet room to sleep in for the night. If you’re staying overnight somewhere and bringing your dog, consider bringing along a portable DIY electric fence so you can give your dog their own space in an area that’s farthest away from the noise as possible. Make sure your dog has food, plenty of water, and a comfortable bed and toys to play with. Items that your dog is used to will provide comfort and a sense of security on a night that’s not routine.

Recognize Signs of Stress or Sickness

If you notice your dog vomiting, having diarrhea, or having difficulty breathing, be sure to call your vet’s office right away, as they may have ingested something toxic. You should also look out for signs that your dog is stressed out, which include cowering, panting, jumping, hiding, pacing, freezing, staring, and shaking. Any behavior that’s unusual for your dog is likely a sign of stress or being overwhelmed, so take your dog to a quiet, dark location to rest. Make sure they have plenty of water, because dehydration is a real risk when your dog is feeling stressed.

Resolve to Get Fit with Your Dog

If your New Year’s resolution revolves around your fitness goals, include your dog in your plans. As long as your dog is physically capable, exercise is incredibly important for their long-term health. Speak with your dog’s vet before making drastic changes to their activity level. Then, try to go on a walk or jog daily, or take a tennis ball outside and play catch. When walking your dog, use a properly fitting harness and keep them on a leash at all times. In the evening, use a reflective leash, harness, or coat to make your dog visible to cars.

As long as your keep your dog’s well-being in the forefront of your mind, everyone can enjoy an evening free from preventable incidents. If your dog is upset on New Year’s Eve, be sure to give them a little TLC the next day and get back to your normal routine as quickly as possible.

These New Year’s Eve safety tips were provided by our educational partner Dog Fence DIY.

How do you keep your pets safe during parties?

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Back to Blogging

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Mon, 28 Dec 2015 20:20:00 +0000

After taking more than a half year break, I'm back! It took some time for me and my family to adjust, but I've settled into a full time position working from home. Going forward I will keep this blog as a way to share and document the fun things our family does, places we go and things we try. Here's to a great 2016 and beyond!

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Happy Earth Day

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Wed, 22 Apr 2015 09:39:00 +0000

Happy Earth Day!

Friday Funny

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Fri, 13 Mar 2015 10:57:00 +0000

Happy Friday!

Any fun plans for the weekend?

No Knead Bread

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Mon, 12 Jan 2015 07:52:00 +0000

Here's a recipe for an easy no-knead bread that you need to try :). A dear friend made it for us, and then Gaigai (12 years old) decided to give it a try. It's amazingly delicious - tastes like Italian bread fresh from the bakery!

In a medium bowl, combine

3 c flour

1/4 tsp yeast

1 1/4 tsp salt

Add

1 1/2 c water

Incorporating by hand or with a spatula for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Coat inside of a second bowl with olive oil, and place dough in bowl. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and let rest 12 -15 hours at room temperature.

Remove from bowl. Fold once or twice. Let rest 15 minutes in bowl. Next shape dough into ball. Generously coat a cotton towel with flour, place dough seam side down and dust with flour. Cover dough with another cotton towel and let rise 1-2 hours at room temperature.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. 30 minutes prior to baking, place 6-8 quart cast iron pot with lid in oven to preheat. Place dough seam side up in pot, cover with lid and bake 30 minutes. Remove lid and bake 15-30 minutes uncovered until loaf is nicely browned. Buon appetito!

From www.sullivanstreetbakery.com/recipes

Midweek Motivation

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Mon, 05 Jan 2015 08:36:00 +0000

You may not control all the events that happen to you,

but you can decide not to be reduced by them.

~Maya Angelou

Tips for Winter Camping with Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Tue, 09 Dec 2014 15:23:00 +0000

For Thanksgiving we headed south to the Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest to camp and hike. This was our first experience winter camping with the kids. With snow on the ground and temps below freezing, we bundled up and hunkered down for the night. Here are some tips for making winter camping more pleasant:

Winter camping with the kids

Have the right gear. A 4 season tent and sleeping bags rated for less than 30 are key for keeping everyone warm at night.

Sleep with hats, gloves and socks.

Let kids put on comfy (clean) clothes to sleep in. Unless the kiddos have favorite footed pjs, consider letting them sleep in clothes. It is more pleasant to be dressed for the day when they wake up instead of having to change out of pjs into clothes when it's freezing cold in the morning.

Go super lux - buy a heater for the tent. Our (only) neighbors during the last camping trip introduced us to a heater you can hook up to a propane tank to keep you toasty in your tent...

Portable indoor safe propane heater for camping - Kovas will try this out on his next camping trip.

Plan on one night and close to home for a first run at winter camping.

Pack plenty of easy snacks and meals - or consider a warm restaurant for a treat. :)

Have you tried winter camping?

Any other tips?

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Midweek Motivation - Endurance

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Wed, 03 Dec 2014 14:32:00 +0000

Endurance is one of the most difficult disciplines, but it is to the one who endures

that the final victory comes."

--The Buddha

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Camping and Hiking at the Garden of the Gods

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Tue, 02 Dec 2014 11:45:00 +0000

Camping and hiking at the Garden of the Gods

Last week we headed south to Garden of the Gods in Shawnee National Forest. With it being about 6 hours away, we left after breakfast and arrived with plenty of time to set up camp and take a short hike on the Observation Trail. A perfect intro to the beautiful sandstone rock formations, the Observation Trail is a 1/4-mile interpretive flagstone loop with panoramic views of the surrounding Garden of the God Wilderness.

Garden of the Gods Observation Trail, Shawnee National Forest

After eating a delicious Thanksgiving dinner, we all bundled up and hunkered down to read in the tent. This was our first time winter camping with the kids. Waking up to a chilly 28 degrees, when pancakes in town were offered for breakfast, we all jumped in the car. With our bodies warm and bellies full, we drove back to the Garden of the Gods for longer hike. We started at the "backpackers' lot" and took a 2 hour loop through gorgeous hilly forest and incredible views of the bluffs. After a hotdog and s'more lunch, we packed up and headed home. Great first time hiking at the Garden of the Gods and winter camping with the kids!

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Tuesday Training - Winter Layering Guide

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Tue, 18 Nov 2014 15:30:00 +0000

We have quickly gone from moderate fall weather to blustery cold. Here's a great guide to help dress appropriately for the weather to keep you running throughout the winter...

The Runner's Soul Winter Layering Guide

What's your must-have winter running item?

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Midweek Motivation

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Wed, 12 Nov 2014 10:06:00 +0000

Think positively...be happy

From ZOOMA FB

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Midweek Motivation: Patience

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Wed, 05 Nov 2014 10:48:00 +0000

"Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience."

Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Tuesday Training

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Tue, 04 Nov 2014 13:40:00 +0000

Enjoying a picnic lunch at the park at the end of my run...

Since the North Face Endurance Challenge Marathon back in September, I've been running for fun -- usually stopping at parks and having picnics along the way. This is also my time to destress and think. My goal is 2-3 easy runs per week - until I choose a spring race to start training for...

Seven days without exercise makes one weak --and a little crazy :)

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Happy Halloween

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Fri, 31 Oct 2014 10:17:00 +0000

Happy Friday!

Any fun plans for the weekend?

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Midweek Motivation

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Wed, 22 Oct 2014 09:32:00 +0000

A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.

English proverb

from ZOOMA FB

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The North Face Endurance Challenge, Wisconsin Marathon

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Wed, 01 Oct 2014 14:55:00 +0000

As a goal turning 40 last year, I wanted to finish my first marathon. With things getting crazy at work and home, it didn't happen. But a couple weeks ago, at a day shy of 41, I completed the North Face Endurance Challenge, WI marathon!

The 2014 North Face Endurance Challenge Marathon, WI

The North Face Endurance Challenge Series is a great family experience. We participated in the series 2 years ago and once again made a camping weekend of it. Everyone except for Little A ran a race. I was first up on Saturday with my marathon starting at 9. The morning was crisp and sunny - perfect for running. The course wound up and down through Kettle Morraine forest and some prairie. I felt great through mile 18, but then my knees began to hurt. Afraid of injury I finished with a run walk, taking it easy down the hills. Best part was seeing my family at every aid station and road crossing. Munchkin ran the kids' mile run the same afternoon, and the following morning Kovas, Tazer and Gaigai lined up for the 5k - Gaigai and Kovas finished together. That evening we celebrated my birthday with a campfire and smores. The North Face put on a well run event and one couldn't ask for a more beautiful setting for running and camping - amazing family weekend!

Video produced by Duck Tape Sports

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Midweek Motivation - Happy Folks

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Wed, 24 Sep 2014 10:55:00 +0000

Most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be. ~Abraham Lincoln

Tuesday Training - Post First Marathon

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Tue, 23 Sep 2014 10:48:00 +0000

I am proud and relieved to have finished my first marathon. Just 2 weeks prior to it, I was contemplating backing out and/or dropping down to a shorter distance because I did not feel prepared, but on the advice of a well-seasoned marathoner, I decided to stick to the original plan.

I have not run since and am enjoying the short break from runs. My plan is to start again this week...

Here are some post marathon tips from Cleveland Clinic:

Don't plan on running during the week after the race. Walking, swimming, or cycling at an easy pace will work well.

When you resume running, start easy — 30 minutes three to four times per week — and increase gradually from there. Most experts will tell you to avoid speed work for a month after a marathon.

Start planning for your next marathon. Review your training; determine what worked well and what presented a problem. Adjust your training schedule accordingly. Experience is the best teacher.

Do not restart your strength training program for 2 weeks following the event.

Allow your body to recover. An extreme athletic event like a marathon is incredibly stressful on the body. The body needs the rest; otherwise, problems such as injuries, fatigue, decreases in performance, and immune suppression can result.

Tips from Cleveland Clinic

Any other post marathon tips?

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Friday Funny - Inconceivable

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Fri, 19 Sep 2014 11:45:00 +0000

Inconceivable...

This one always makes me laugh...from The Princess Bride - cute movie for the whole family.

Happy Friday!

Any fun plans for the weekend?

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Finished My First Marathon

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Tue, 16 Sep 2014 10:51:00 +0000

Completed my first marathon!!

Final Marathon Preparation

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Fri, 12 Sep 2014 17:12:00 +0000

I'm both nervous and excited for my first marathon -- tomorrow! In preparation for any marathon, here are some final tips...

Set two goals. Review your training and set one goal for a good race day, and another as a backup plan in case it's hot or windy or you're just not feeling great.

See success. On several nights before going to bed, or first thing in the morning, visualize yourself crossing the finish line as the clock shows a new personal best.

Chill out. Reduce the outside stresses in your life as much as possible the last week.

Carbo-load, don't fat-load. During the last three days, concentrate on eating carbohydrate-rich foods, such as pasta, potatoes, bread, fruit and fruit juice, low-fat milk and yogurt, low-fat treats, and sports drinks. It's the carbs, after all, not fat or protein, that will fuel you on race day.

The day prior to the race:

Lay out the clothing that you will wear. Do not wear a new outfit for the race.

Don't wear new shoes in the marathon.

Be prepared for anything. Fill a gym bag with the essentials: a dry shirt, an extra pair of socks, tissue (you never know when the portable toilet supply will run out), extra shoelaces, gloves, hat, lubricant, extra safety pins, blister care products, and whatever else you choose not to live without.

Make sure you have picked up your race number. Don't spend hours on your feet at the race expo. If possible, pick up your number early.

Don't eat too late at night and make sure you are well-hydrated.

Plan when you will leave, how you will get to the race, and where you will park. You don't want to get lost prior to the race.

If you did not tolerate the electrolyte drink that will be used during the race when you were training, plan on another source of calories, such as gel packets or gummy bears.

Carry a water bottle filled with your favorite replacement drink. Friends along the course might be able to restock your supply.

Be sure to have tried your fluid and gel supplements prior to the event day. Even small variations in sugar concentration can cause stomach upset during an event.

Review the map of the course: know the locations of water stops, aid stations, and portable toilets.

Race day

Get up early. Plan on arriving at the start at least an hour before the race. You do not want to feel pressured for time before the race.

Take in some calories two to three hours before the start. Whatever worked prior to your long training runs is a good idea. Make sure that you are drinking water, too.

While getting dressed, lubricate any areas in which chafing has been a problem. If blisters or hot spots have been a problem, treat the site prophylactically (using moleskin, or whatever worked during training).

Don't forget to pin on your number.

Arrive at the start expecting to find a line at the portable toilets. Since you have time to spare, there will be no need to panic.

Don't worry about a warm-up run. Walking from the car will loosen you up a little. You might want to do some easy stretching (if you are used to this).

Just before heading to the starting line, take off your sweats and check your gym bag. Now head to the start and situate yourself in an appropriate spot in the pack. Don't worry about starting too slowly. It will give you a chance to warm up your muscles and save you from the agony of starting out too fast.

You have worked hard to get here. Enjoy the adventure ahead.

During the race:

Drink at every water station. Do not wait until you are thirsty — that is too late.

Start slowly; a fast start usually spells disaster. You can start running faster later in the race.

Go with what you know. Stick to your plan and what you've practiced during training.

Relax.

Think laps, not miles.

Go hard late. No matter how much you're raring to go, keep things under control until well past the halfway mark. Then you can start racing.

Talk to yourself. Repeat your mantra.

Finish with a smile on your face. Someone might be taking your picture.

After the race:

No matter what the results are, be proud of yourself.

Drink. Even though you drank during the race, you will still be a little dehydrated.

Replenish carbohydrates. There is a 2-hour window following a hard effort during which absorption of carbohydrates may be enhanced. If you can't eat them, then drink them. A little protein mixed in improves recovery. Do not choose anything extremely high in sugar or fat, it will cause stomach upset.

Keep moving. Do lower intensity cardiovascular movements, such as walking, for 60 minutes after the race. This will diminish a lot of the post-race stiffness. Stretch gently.

Put ice on anything that is sore. Apply ice for 15 minutes several times over the course of the day.

Don't plan on running during the week after the race. Walking, swimming, or cycling at an easy pace will work well.

When you resume running, start easy — 30 minutes three to four times per week — and increase gradually from there. Most experts will tell you to avoid speed work for a month after a marathon.

Start planning for your next marathon. Review your training; determine what worked well and what presented a problem. Adjust your training schedule accordingly. Experience is the best teacher.

Allow your body to recover. An extreme athletic event like a marathon is incredibly stressful on the body. The body needs the rest; otherwise, problems such as injuries, fatigue, decreases in performance, and immune suppression can result.

tips from Runner's World and Cleveland Clinic

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The North Face Endurance Challenge - Wisconsin

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Tue, 09 Sep 2014 10:46:00 +0000

The North Face Endurance Challenge

If you're looking for something to do this weekend - check out the North Face Endurance Challenge in Madison, WI! They have everything from kids races to ultras. Super well run, beautiful location and with promo code D30LPWI (all caps), you receive 15% any distance.

Looking to do some trail racing this weekend?

Check out

the North Face Endurance Challenge - Madison, WI

use D30LPWI (all caps) for 15% off any distance

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Three Things Thursday

noreply@blogger.com (Laima) — Thu, 04 Sep 2014 14:52:00 +0000

Little A after his first day of preschool

Little A was excited to go to preschool today -- I'm so happy, this is a big change from last year! Goes to show that each child develops on their own schedule. With him being the youngest of four and last for us, I was in no hurry to put him in a true structured preschool. Glad we didn't push it...it's so difficult when the teachers have to pry a child away from you:(

Trying to build up my mental endurance...

I was contemplating dropping down from marathon to the half or relay for next weekend. Luckily someone with a lot of marathon experience advised me to get at least a 16 mile run in before the weekend and that should suffice. I've been running pretty consistently, just not getting in my really long distances (in other words - no 20, 18 or 16s). Yesterday I made it my goal to run 16 and I did. Part of it I ran with Little A and stopped briefly at parks along our route which made it much more fun and pleasant. So I'm feeling a bit more confident - plus I'm hoping the beautiful scenery will help make the miles go by easier!

The North Face Endurance Challenge

If you're looking for something to do next weekend - check out the North Face Endurance Challenge in Madison, WI! They have everything from kids races to ultras. Super well run, beautiful location and with promo code D30LPWI (all caps), you receive 15% any distance.

Looking for something to do next weekend?

Check out

the North Face Endurance Challenge - Madison, WI

use D30LPWI (all caps) for 15% off any distance

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