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Tuesday, November 29, 2011

A-Different-Kind-of-Thankful

This year was a different kind of Thanksgiving. I was not scheduled to have Little Dude and Little Diva for the day. And, I opted not to toe the start line at a local Turkey Trot, due to an already-busy fall racing schedule. I opted to use the morning to sleep in and save on another race entry fee. Instead, I spent some time at the gym and then met a new friend at the local Nature Conservancy. He and I enjoyed running our own 5K (give-or-take) while we were surrounded by other like-minded people out on the trail. After I showered up, I headed to a relative's home for some awesome company and a some delicious food. Even though I wasn't hanging out with the kids, I was surrounded by people really close to me. The day was filled with lots of good food, relaxing and laughing ... oh, and texting ... and, you can't forget the wine in the hot tub ...



Even though I wasn't able to spend the holiday with the kids, I have been blessed with several days with them following. I'm reminding myself that it does not matter WHEN we celebrate holidays with each other ... each and every day together should be celebrated. We spent a lot of time at home together this weekend ... SLOWING LIFE DOWN, just enjoying eachother, we surrounded ourselves with friends and enjoyed preparing for the holiday season.



This week marks the one-year point when life changed (HERE) for me. This year, I am more thankful than ever for every single blessing in my life. With all of life's changes and curve-balls over the past twelve months, I have so much to be thankful for. So many constant, lifelong blessings that have existed and so many new ones that I have discovered. It took experiencing some tough times for me to realize who some of these blessings are, and for me to remind them that I am thankful for their support. I truly am thankful for the experiences ... the good and the bad. From them I have have learned, I have grown and I have conquered. One year later, I am still me ... I am just a better version of myself. And, I am blessed.





- My 2 happy & healthy children
- My wonderful parents, Little Diva Sister
& my awesome support system
- The relationships & friendships that have been
strengthened over the past twelve months
- The new friendships & relationships that have developed
- My flexible, stable & supportive work environment

- A comfortable HOUSE that now also feels like a HOME
- The sport of running & all of the physical, emotional,
mental, social and financial outlets it has given me

- And last but not least ...........
my coffee and Diet Mountain Dew
:)




It's not what we say about our blessings,

but how we use them, is the

true measure of our thanksgiving.

~W.T. Purkiser

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Gracie's Gift Book Review & Giveaway

I was contacted recently to see if Little Diva and I would like to review Gracies Gift (HERE) By Andrea Trosclair. The cute book uses bows to symbolize what gifts our daughters are and the book showcases the deep love between a mother and daughter. It's beauty from 32 pages from cover to cover is illustrated by Sean Gautreaux. List price is $16.95.


The author used her own two daughters as inspiration for the book. Her "gifts" that she celebrates and gives thanks for. It was a perfect book for Little Diva and I read together a few times. She also enjoyed reading it to Little Dude.

With Little Diva's birthday a few short weeks away, this book was filled with birthday-themed excitement. Little Diva has struggled with us for years to put her hair in her standard (and well-known) pigtails. In the book, Gracie is frustrated with her mother for wanting to put bows in her hair. She ends up wearing the pretty bow that matches her pretty party dress.

At her birthday party, Gracie realizes that she is just like the pretty gifts that she's receiving, topped with froofy bows. She, too is a precious gift.




Sadly, I learned this week that eight year olds are too old for pigtails and bows anymore. :( So, Little Diva is sporting only her sides up now; sans bows. My big girl is growing up .... but is still just as much of a precious gift as ever.




******************************

Two lucky winners will win
SIGNED COPIES of
Gracie's Gift

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?! LEAVE ME A COMMENT

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE. LEAVE ME A COMMENT
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Running-Diva-Mom/148863891815074?ref=ts

3 – Visit the Trosclair Tales website HERE and tell me something you learned. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Trosclair Tales on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!). LEAVE ME A COMMENT

5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

Enter now though Sunday, December 4th.
Winner will be announced on Sunday, December 5th.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom,
please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

My Pal Birthday Bear Product Review & Giveaway

Earlier this year, I discovered My Sibling Dolls (HERE). My Sibling dolls and their associated booklets will help children understand others who learn and grow differently than they do. I thought that it was such a great concept. The company also sells My Pals (HERE) as well as My Pal Plush online (HERE).

With Little Diva and Little Dude's birthdays right around the corner, they were sent a variety of fun Happy Birthday bears to get them even more excited about turning four and eight!


My Pal Birthday Bear - $20.00
(HERE)


Plush brown bear sits 10" tall, plus a 5" party hat, and holds a birthday cake that plays "Happy Birthday" when you press the button. Colorful, soft and snuggly, this bear is a great gift for anyone, young or old who is celebrating their birthday!

Booklet "My Pal for My Birthday" (made in USA) instructs children about how to write thank you notes for birthday gifts, and also has a word scramble and a short story in which they can fill in the blanks. In the booklet there is also space provided for children to write about their own birthday, with the help of prompts like: "Who celebrated with me? Where did we celebrate?" and ending with "Special memories of the day."


Plush Toy - My Pal for My Birthday Bear - $14.00
(HERE)


Plush toy My Pal for My Birthday bear sits 11" tall (including hat) in choice of green, blue or pink. The bear is holding a birthday cake which plays "Happy Birthday" when you squeeze it. The "My Pal for My Birthday" booklet (made in USA) encourages/instructs the reader on how to write thank you notes, do word puzzles, and to write their own story about their birthday.

Little Diva and Little Dude LOVE stuffed animals and they loved these adorable birthday-themed bears just as much as the over-priced bears that are sold at the mall. They were reminded (as if they needed reminders!) that their big birthdays are right around the corner.

The colors were really vibrant and totally fun. Little Diva loves pink and Little Dude loves green. They had to fight over the blue one a bit!! They had fun pushing the happy birthday buttons over ... and over ... and over ... much to my dismay!! But, they enjoyed it. Little Dude loves pushing buttons and mechanical things, so he loved pushing the button and dancing along to the song. The stuffed animals are well made and the accessories are attached well and safely assembled. I hate nothing more than investing in stuffed animals and all of the clothing or accessories fall off right away.





These bears would make great birthday gifts, additions to gift baskets or floral arrangements. Perfect for toddlers, children, teens and adults.




Cyber Monday Promotion online
20% off the entire order!

Promotion code: CYBERMONDAY


******************************

One lucky winner will win the
My Pal Birthday Bear
(Large)

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?! LEAVE ME A COMMENT

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 – Visit the My Pal / My Sibling website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of My Pal on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!). LEAVE ME A COMMENT

5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

Enter now though Sunday, December 4th.
Winner will be announced on Monday, December 5th.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom,
please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Friday, November 25, 2011

ClipE Winner ....

I was recently given the opportunity to review a ClipE for my Earbuds. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit ClipE online HERE and start shopping.



There were 56 entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random to receive a ClipE.

Random.org chose ……..

Finally Fit 2011
(
HERE)

Congratulations!!! Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address. And, I will get you your prize!

Thank you for following my journey!!

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Friday, November 18, 2011

Vapur Bottle Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review the 0.5 L Bottle from Vapur Bottles. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Vapur online HERE and start shopping.

There were 51 entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random to receive a pink 0.5 L Vapur bottle.

Random.org chose ……..

Erin
(
HERE)

Congratulations!!! Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address. And, I will get you your prize!

Thank you for following my journey!!

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Hint Drink Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review Hint Unsweetened Water. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Hint online HERE and start shopping.



There were 72 entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random to receive a Hint Water prize pack.

Random.org chose ……..

Jen @
Running with the Girls
(
HERE)

Congratulations!!! Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address. And, I will get you your prize!

Thank you for following my journey!!

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Arctic Ease Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review the Cyrotherapy Wrap from Arctic Ease. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Arctic Ease online HERE and start shopping.



There were 78 entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random to receive two Cyrotheraphy Wraps from Arctic Ease.

Random.org chose ……..

JoAnna @
Runner's Luck
(
HERE)

Congratulations!!! Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address. And, I will get you your prize!

Thank you for following my journey!!

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Traffic Talk Custom License Plate Frame Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review a custom license plate frame from Traffic Talk. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Traffic Talk online HERE and start shopping.



There were 37 entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random to receive a custom license plate frame from Traffic Talk.

Random.org chose ……..

Laura @
Laura Elaine Designs
(
HERE)

Congratulations!!! Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address. And, I will get you your prize!

Thank you for following my journey!!

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Sunday, November 13, 2011

ClipE Product Review & Giveaway

I was recently contacted by ClipE (HERE) to see if I've heard about their product and if I'd be interested in incorporate their clips into my running routine. I'm not typically a runner with music, but since I purchased my iPod, I do use headphones a lot more frequently. I still prefer to run alone with my thoughts, but I do find the headphone cords to be a pain in my running bottom when I'm out there doing my thing.

ClipE is a small and simple solution for managing headphone cords in a stylish way. The design, mechanics and ergonomics were the brainchild of an avid runner and professional pilot, Jess Bylsma. Just like pilot's headsets have a clip on them to keep cords away from the flight controls and switches, Jess saw the need for a similar concept for runner and athletes. After exploring all options in the market that didn't quite meet the practicality and aesthetic requirements, Jess took matters into her own hands and designed the ClipE.


Just insert your headphone cords into the back end of the ClipE and clip it on your top. It's that simple. It was an awesome way to keep those long cords from flying around while I was pumping my arms and the earbuds stayed in my ears as securely as when I started my runs. The ClipE stayed in place, too. And it didn't ruin the fabric on my running gear. I love this thing!!


They sell a lot of fun designs and colors, but I wish they offered even more. I can think of so many fun options for runners and sports enthusiasts. Maybe even some bling??!! Hmmm??!!



******************************

One lucky winner will win a

ClipE

(in blue floral above)

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?! LEAVE ME A COMMENT

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 – Visit the ClipE website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of ClipE on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!). LEAVE ME A COMMENT

5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

Enter now though Monday, November 21.
Winner will be announced on Tuesday.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom,
please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

I Like Book Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review the I Like Book. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit The I Like Book online HERE and start shopping.

There were 74 entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random to receive an I Like Book.

Random.org chose ……..

Christy @
Changing from Fat
to Fit

(HERE)

Congratulations!!! Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address. And, I will get you your prize!

Thank you for following my journey!!

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Clif Bar Seasonal Favorites Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review the new seasonal favorites from Clif Bar. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Clif Bar online HERE and start shopping.



There were 135entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random to receive a Clif Bar Seasonal Prize Pack.

Random.org chose ……..

Stacey @
She Runs. Sorta.
(
HERE)

Congratulations!!! Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address. And, I will get you your prize!

Thank you for following my journey!!

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

FuelBelt Revenge Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to reviewthe new Revenge Hydration Belt from FuelBelt. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit FuelBelt online HERE and start shopping.



There were 143entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random to receive a Revenge Hydration Belt from FuelBelt

Random.org chose ……..

DEM from
Happy, Healthy, Strong
HERE

Congratulations!!! Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address. And, I will get you your prize!

Thank you for following my journey!!

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

FitDeck Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review the Speed, Agility & Quickness set from FitDeck. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit FitDeck online HERE and start shopping.



There were 59 entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random to receive the Bodyweight FitDeck set.

Random.org chose ……..

Once & Future Runner


HERE

Congratulations!!! Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address. And, I will get you your prize!

Thank you for following my journey!!

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Couch to 5K Coaching Report : 2011 Girls on the Run 5K Race Report

Today was the day!!! Today was the day that 10 fabulous women that I've gotten to know over 9 fabulous weeks were going to run their first 5K. We trained together twice a week and they ran together once on their own each weekend. Sometimes we would get together on the weekends, as well, to keep eachother motivated. The kids would even join us on their bikes and scooters. They were setting a great example for their children and keeping their commitment to themselves at the same time. They really reached out to eachother and created bonds over their nine week journey together. We met at various parks in town and explored many different routes. The group I coached in the spring had 27 members and was a mixed-gender group. I really enjoyed getting to know each woman, their names, their personalities, and their strengths and breaking-points where they would need motivation.

We started with twelve members and I'm told that the class sold out in an hour and a half when registration opened in the Summer. There were just as many women on the waiting list. I'm so happy that so many women want to do something so positive for themselves. Of the twelve women, we only had two not join us on race day. One had scheduling troubles and just could not get to the scheduled training runs and was doing it on her own; the other preferred walking very long distances and just could not fit the running in on top of that. I consider the group to have been a huge success, considering we did not lose anyone due to lack of motivation or frustration. Everyone was still active and keeping their commitment.


At our first training run, back in September, the ladies struggled with running one minute intervals for twenty minutes. By the end of our training, they were running 32 minutes (most straight through). We went and ran the 5K course in Waunakee on Tuesday and finished in the dark and in the rain. On Thursday, we finished with a short run along the same route they struggled with on the first day, now running 20 minutes straight. We finished with a yummy pasta dinner, celebratory cake and discussion of our plan for race day.


We were scheduled to run the 3rd Annual Girls on the Run 5K for the Dane County (Madison, Wisconsin) Chapter in Waunakee, Wisconsin this morning (HERE) this morning. I had run the event the past two years and it was cloudy, dreary and last year it was raining. I was drenched last year. This year, the sun was shining, temperatures were in the low-50's and it was going to be a fantastic day to run!!! I couldn't think of a much happier way to end their journey.


The kids and I piled into the Marathon Mommy Minivan and met up with the Couch to 5K group at 9 AM. Parking was a little bit more difficult this year, due to increased participation. But, it wasn't terrible. We went into the community building and met up with everyone downstairs at packet pickup. This year, the race was chip timed. We went over how that worked and made sure everyone had their bibs on securely.



I had bought supplies for all of the kids to make signs for their moms, including Little Dude and Little Diva. The kids and their families enjoyed making some personalized signs and I know that their moms appreciated it, too.



We headed outside for some team photos. The atmosphere was awesome, as all of the Girls on the Run teams were assembling outside as well. They were cheering, doing jumping jacks and stretching. They were getting their hair spray painted in bright colors and having a great time. We were having a great time too!


We took a quick potty break inside (no porto-potties needed today!!) and then headed to the startline. We looked like we meant business in our pink Couch to 5K technical tees! The National Anthem was sung and then the fire truck whailed and we were off .....



There were two relatively large hills during the first half of the course and I tried to run back and forth between everyone in the group, to make sure that everyone was making great time and having a great time. The further we got into the race, the further apart the packs of pink shirts got. They ultimately ended up in 3-4 groups. I really had to hustle to get back and forth!

Most were smiling out on the course, some struggled at times, but I continued to remind them to focus on their breathing, to get into a rhythm and to have fun. Their experience over the past nine weeks and their legs would carry them through to the finish line ... and I hoped that they would finish with a huge smile on their face. The hard work was done .... this was the fun part!!

I believe that everyone finished between 32 and 52 minutes (and some change). They all were extremely supportive as I came in running behind the last runner from our group. They all were assembled just beyond the finish line, cheering her in and calling her by name.



After we all crossed the finish line, hugs were shared by all. Their families assembled to give their moms hugs and congratulations.



So proud of you ........

Diane
Nicole

Patti

Jenny

Chris

LeAnne

Betty

Kim

Christine

Helen



Coming together is a beginning.
Keeping together is progress.
Working together is success.
~Henry Ford

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Vapur Bottle Product Review & Giveaway

I discovered Vapur Bottles online (HERE) this fall as I was looking for alternatives to my handheld water bottle. I would not use a Vapur Bottle during a run, but I though that they were definitely a different concept and a nice alternative to bulky plastic bottles.

I loved how portable these are, especially for mothers. I carry a water or sippy cup with me all the time when I'm out and about, running errands. But, when the drink is gone, you still have the bulky bottle or cup to store in your purse or diaper bag. These roll up and fit nicely in your bag ... and with no spill. You can also clip them to your diaper bag, gym bag or your kid's backpack. They also sell small 0.4 L "fun size" two packs that are ideal for kids. There is also a nice writable area to label the bottle for your kids so they don't get lost at school or sports activities. Not that any of the other cool kids will have these at school!


I was sent one of the 0.5 Liter bottles (HERE) in pink, of course! It retails for only $9.99.

The Vapur Anti-Bottle is a foldable, reusable water bottle designed for convenient on-the-go use. Unlike traditional rigid bottles, the Anti-Bottle is flexible. It stands upright when full and can be rolled, folded or flattened when empty - easily fitting into pockets, purses or packs.

Safe and durable, the Vapur Anti-Bottle is made in the United States and designed to withstand everyday use and regular cleaning. It also comes with a carabiner, allowing you to attach your Anti-Bottle and take it anywhere. The writable area on the back of the bottle also allows it to be personalized.

Vapur was recently awarded the 2010 FPA Silver Award for Sustainability & Environmental Achievement. As a member of 1% For the Planet, Vapur donates a portion of all sales to water-related and environmental causes.

Features & Benefits:
Foldable - Stands upright when full. Rolls, folds or flattens when empty.
Reusable and Safe - Ultra-durable, BPA-free with FDA-approved polyethylene inner-liner (odor, taste and stain resistant).
Washable - Easy to clean! Top-rack dishwasher safe or by hand. Air dry as needed.
Freezable - Can be frozen to keep beverages cold.
Attachable - Included carabiner can be attached to any bag, purse or backpack.
Identifiable - Writable area on back for easy identification.
Affordable - Stock up for the whole family!
Vapur Bottles (excluding carabiner) are proudly Made in the USA.


These would make great stocking stuffers, because, they will fold right up into the stocking. I loved how washable they were as well. I put it in the diswasher and it washed up just fine. I've been keeping mine in the refrigerator and just keep refilling it. It's nice to have it handing when I'm on the go. As I'm heading out the door, I just grab it and toss it in my bag. And when it's empty, it's not taking up extra space in my bag. Then I refill it a few times before washing it again, and then refill it in the refrigerator. Totally reusable and totally cute.




******************************

One lucky winner will win a

Vapur Bottle

(in pink)

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?! LEAVE ME A COMMENT

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 – Visit the Vapur website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Vapur on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!). LEAVE ME A COMMENT

5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

Enter now though Thursday, November 17.
Winner will be announced on Friday.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom,
please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Hint Unsweetened Essence Water Product Review & Giveaway

I recently discovered Hint Water (HERE). The idea behind Hint is simple: pure water, nature's original refreshment, accented with a hint of natural flavor. No sugar, no artificial sweeteners: Hint is a refreshing alternative to sodas, juice and other sweetened drinks and it tastes great.

At zero calories, these unsweetened waters are a great way for us to get in our fluids for the day without adding any caloric intake to our food diary. Non-carbonated. Vegan. Gluten-free. No MSG. No preservatives. Tasty. Awesome.

I drink way to much Diet Mountain Dew and coffee than I want to admit publicly online! But, I also drink a lot of water and zero calorie sports drinks. I was excited to try Hint Water since it would increase my water intake with a little hint of flavor.


I was able to try six of the ten interesting flavors. And let me tell you ... they are INTERESTING. I'm bummed I didn't get to try Cucumber or Pear or Honeydew-Hibiscus ... they sound completely different than anything I've ever tried.

The flavors I did experience were yummy, but I must admit didn't taste too obviously different from eachother. The berry flavors tasted pretty similar to me. I loved Pomegranate-Tangerine and Watermelon. Strawberry-Kiwi wasn't a bit hit with me. But, I'm kind of anti strawberry-kiwi to begin with.


A case of 24 16 oz bottles is $44. I'm not sure I would purchase these myself, because I'm on a tight budget and the pricetag is a bit steep. But, if your pocketbook allows, Hint Water would be a nice alternative to plain water and sports drinks. If you purchase online, shipping is free in the US!

******************************

One lucky winner will win a

Hint Water Prize Package


PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?! LEAVE ME A COMMENT

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 – Visit the Hint Water website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Hint Water on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!). LEAVE ME A COMMENT

5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

Enter now though Thursday, November 17.
Winner will be announced on Friday.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom,
please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Artic Ease Product Review & Giveaway

I was contacted by Arctic Ease (HERE) sometime ago to review samples of their Cryotherapy Wrap. I had it sitting in my "running bin", waiting for the time to use it. I have had ocassional aches and pains here and there through my training ... but have been fortunate enough not to need too much icing.

Last week, I rocked my marathon on minimal training. But, a couple of days later (after not having too much discomfort) I needed to do something about my ankle. It was bothering me when walking and a little bit when I ran. I was in pain and I had a half marathon scheduled again in a few days. I needed to do something. So, I pulled out the Arctic Ease. I wasn't sure what to expect.

Why mess with ice bags that melt and leak? Or frozen ice and gel packs that don’t conform to the injury? Until now, you had no choice; there was no better way. But Arctic Ease has changed all that.

Cryotherapy (cold therapy) works in three major ways:

It reduces inflammation by causing a slowed metabolic state. This reduces the amount of cellular damage to injured tissue and decreases edema (swelling).

It decreases hematoma formation. Hematoma is bleeding under the skin, which is what results in bruising. Constricting blood vessels through the use of cold decreases blood flow and therefore reduces bruising.

It induces numbness. Cryotherapy reduces the firing of inflamed nerves and reduces swelling which decreases painful muscle spasms.

The benefits of using frozen gel or ice packs end when the temperature of the tissue being treated drops below 59°F (15°C). If your skin gets colder than that, it can cause lymph tubes to flow backwards toward the injured area, actually increasing the swelling and pain. It also increases the risk of frostbite and peripheral nerve palsy.

With my ankle injury the last few weeks, I had been wearing a cheap ice pack inside my compression socks. It was not only extremely bulky and uncomfortable, but it also wasn't functional. It moved. The freezing temps burned and it was so frozen that it wouldn't fold to the shape of my foot, leg and ankle. Also, once it thawed out, it was no longer cool. Therefore, if I wore it around a few hours, or to bed, it wasn't doing much of anything after awhile.



Arctic Ease is easy to use. Simply open the resealable package and apply. Arctic Ease will stay comfortably cool for hours, with no fear of damage to muscles or tissues. It’s completely reusable – just add 2 tablespoons of water, seal it up and it will recharge (rehydrate) and be ready to go when you need it.


I opened the package and the wrap just kept unrolling. There was a gel-like substance on the outside of the package the product was still moist and cool after months and months of sitting in my "runners bin". I was skeptical, but wrapped the super long wrap around my ugly runner's foot and swollen ankle. It wasn't bulking; was cool and was really comfortable. I slid a sock on over the top and was able to go about my day as normal. It really eased the pain. I've also been wearing it to bed. By the time I wake up, isn't as cool and has hardned to the shape of my foot almost. I simply wet it, cool it in the refrigerator and re-wrap it. It works perfectly!



This works great for endurance athletes as well as for your children with any sports injury. I would highly suggest investing in one or two wraps. Refrigeration isn't necessary, so it would be great to keep in your gym bag or your kid's sports bag. The reusable wraps retail for $13.49 and the pads retail for $8.99. These wraps are an AWESOME investment.


I have two. I am now keeping one (when I'm not wearing one!) in my gym bag and one in my refrigerator for reuse. And, did I mention they are odorless? The wraps, not necessarily the runner's feet! ...

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One lucky winner will win

2 Arctic Ease Wraps

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?! LEAVE ME A COMMENT

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 – Visit the Arctic Ease website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Arctic Ease on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!). LEAVE ME A COMMENT

5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

Enter now though Monday, November 14.
Winner will be announced on Tuesday.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom,
please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Traffic Talk Custom License Plate Frame Product Review & Giveaway

A couple of years ago, I was decking out the Marathon Mommy Minivan. After upgrading my 13.1 sticker to a 26.2 sticker, I ordered a license plate frame from Traffic Talk (HERE). I was able to create a fabulous customized license plate cover in hot pink. I personalized it with "Marathon Mommy ... 26.2 Miles of Peace & Quiet". Over the years, my license plate cover has become quite the conversation-piece and I've notice a lot of drivers behind me chuckling and pointing.


Well, you've heard the term ... "A dog has ate my homework". Well, would you believe, "A dog has eaten my license plate cover?!?!". Well, believe it. It happened. Why on earth a pooch would choose to eat a plastic license plate cover is beyond me. I'm just grateful he left the actual license plate in tact!

I went on the Traffic Talk website and contacted them. They were gracious enough to send me an identical license plate cover and were looking forward to my review on the blog. They even had my initial order on file and all I needed to do was send them my new mailing address, and it arrived a few days later. Can we say fantastic customer service??!!

Traffic Talk carries over 2000 license plate frames, as well as antenna toppers, chrome details and so much more. If you don't find what you want ... just create your own like I did. They offer so many fun colors, too.

You can customize with...
- Any Wording or Saying
- 28 Background Colors
- 28 Font Colors
- Several Font Choices
- Mounting Orientation


If it wasn't for the dog eating it, my license plate cover held up nicely for three years. It didn't chip or fade over time.


The customized from retails for $13.95 and the more you purchase, the more you save! These would make great holiday gifts for any runner in your life. Personalize one for yourself, or your blog, today!

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One lucky winner will win a
Custom License Plate Frame

from Traffic Talk
(in pastic or chrome metal)


PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?! LEAVE ME A COMMENT

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 – Visit the Traffic Talk website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Traffic Talk on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!). LEAVE ME A COMMENT

5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

Enter now though Monday, November 14.
Winner will be announced on Tuesday.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom,
please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]