Nuun Review & Giveaway

I'm sure you all have heard of Nuun (HERE).  Yep, knew it.  This stuff is everywhere and growing popularity quickly with runners and endurance athletes.  The cute, colorful containers are just as intriguing and fun as the Bondi Bands and knee-high socks we are collecting.   Have you gotten your hands on a tube of Nuun yet?

 

Nuun is a fast, effective and delicious hydration system that delivers an ideal balance of electrolytes - without the added sugar to any glass of water or your favorite water bottle.   Developed by competitive athletes, Nuun is a low-calorie optiona and is portable for on-the-go athletes. Enjoy before, during or after your workouts.

 

 

There are no sugars or carbs in these colorful little tubes.  Nuun Active Hydration (HERE) comes in an assortment of eleven different flavors: 

 

Banana, Orange, Lemon Lime, Strawberry Lemonade, Fruit Punch, Kona Cola, Lemon Tea, Tri-Berry, Grape, Tropical, and Citrus Fruit.

 

 

 

When asked to try out Nuun, I opted to test out the Tropical flavor, because I really like fruit punch.  And, I also asked for Kona Kola - because it sounded so totally different from anything else on the market.  I hate lemon-lime and berry flavors in my sports drinks.  I was glad to see that Nuun offered a variety of flavors for tough customers like myself.

 

The kids and I had a fun taste test with both flavors.  We drank Nuun while we were sipping around the house and while I ran a couple of short runs.  Little Diva didn't like the Kona Kola flavor, but Little Dude and I did.  I wasn't sure if I would enjoy it as much out on the run, but it was just fine.  I could stomach it.  I admittedly enoyed the Tropical flavor more while running. 

 

The tablets took approximately two minutes to dissolve in a standard water bottle.  The kids enjoyed shaking the bottles up a couple of times, before sampling.  The water became "fizzy", which surprised the kids.  I still prefer my sports drinks to be more similar to juice.  But, I did enjoy Nuun.  And I liked the different flavors.  Would definitely love to try out more flavors during racing season.

 

 

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One lucky winner will win
a sampler pack of Nuun

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 Nuun website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Nunn 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 (@RunningDivaMom #RunningDivaMom) account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH. @nunnhydration

 

Enter now though February 4.

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

Things change.

I see so many of my couch to 5k clients initially starting the program because they want to lose weight.  I think that everyone throws down the $75 registration fee, reads through the information folder at session one, and thinks that they will be slim and trim after nine short (or seemingly long to some) weeks.  Not sure how many of them are actually intersted in "the run".

After week three, I tend to start spotting bright white running shoes that were properly fit for them.  I hear tales of their brightly colored running gear they purchased at the local running store.  They share how they fit in their run before work or after the kids were in bed.  They use a guest pass at a local gym to fit in a workout during a blizzard.  Around week six, they catch up with an old friend who is a "real runner" and now they have a reason to get together - for a run.  They start asking me about 10ks instead of 5ks.  I see their confidence soar. 

By week nine, no one is really talking about the weight anymore.  Some of their bodies have changed a bit.  But, most haven't lost mega-amounts of pounds.  But, they are happy in their skin and they are loving the run.

They end up getting so much more out of the program than the initially went out to conquer nine weeks prior.  It happens every time.  And, it continues to amaze me.

So, I asked on the RDM Facebook page (HERE), a simple question ....

I initially started running, because _________. I am still running, because ________.

The responses were very similar to what I'm observing ....


I was trying lose baby weight, it makes me insanely happy

I initially started running, because I SERIOUSLY NEEDED TO LOSE WEIGHT, I am still running, because I'VE BECAME ADDICTED AND DO NOT WANT TO GAIN MY WEIGHT BACK!

I was trying to lose weight, I am addicted.

I initially started running because a I needed a cheap exercise and a way to be alone. I am still running because I love the alone time and I am setting a healthier example for my little one and when she says "Mama, let's run!" I do, because now I can.

I needed something 'extra', I am still running because I love it now

I initially started to run, because everyone I knew was doing 5Ks. I am still running because I enjoy being able to shave seconds and minutes off previous times and for FOMO. (Fear Of Missing Out).
I initially started running because I had a goal to do a full marathon even though I hated running, I'm still running because I'm addicted even though I still don't like running.

I initially started running, because I needed to lose weight and to reach a goal. I am still running, because I still have goals to reach and to stay fit mentally and physically!

i initially started running on a bet. i am still running because i feel totally free- no worries......just me and the open road

I initally started running because I hurt my arches with the spin bike, so I was told to do something different. I'm still running because I got addicted to the feel after a race. My first half is in Dec!! I can not wait!!! Scared and excited, exactly what makes me have that rush!!!

I wanted to lose weight. It feels invigorating.

I initially started running to prove to a friend that because of a detached ACL it wasn't possible to run....I run now because I am addicted and its something my hubby and children will do with me!!
I wanted to lose weight after baby. I am still running because I love it and I'm completely addicted! :)

Wanted to loose weight and it keeps me healthy

I wanted to meet new people and I still run because I love it!

Start: to lose weight Still: love it, challenge, Ultra!

I was challenged to run a half marathon and I am still running because I love the alone time and be able to shave minutes and seconds of my previous time.

I initially started running, because I wanted to lose more weight and it was something I always wanted to do. I am still running, because it helps me stay sane, mostly.

I initially started running because my boyfriend at the time convinced me to. Now he's long gone and I'm still running because I want to.... and because I want to be an ironman.

I started running initially because at that time, my dad was battling prostate cancer and going through grueling chemo treatments. My first 5K I trained for was one that benefited cancer research. My thought process was if dad can push through his chemo treatments with such bravery and always a smile on his face, I can do the same through my training. Last year, we lost him to this horrible disease. Today... I run for him and for myself, as it helps me through my grieving process.

I started to run because I saw other people running and thought "I wish I could do that" so I did! I keep running because it's a constant challenge - it's never easy for me and there is always a new distance or a better time I can achieve!

Marine corps, endorphins & now it's big part of my life & personal identity

Because of infertility.... now I run b/c it's a way of life!

because I wanted to drop a few pounds...and now because it's what makes me proud of myself - always a big sense of accomplishment!

I wanted to loose baby weight, it just make my days way better!

Of spite....because I love it now. I was told I couldn't do a Ragnar and I wanted to prove "them" wrong :)

Because it was something me & my sister did together, I love having "quiet time" and for me to just "BE".

Because of a 22 mile hike/ walk with friends. I love it and have a great running parter!

I lost my job and I'm ADDICTED!

I wanted to beat my time that I got from walking my first 1/2 marathon, I want to be better and stronger and healthier.

Because someone told me that I couldn't do a Half and I wanted to prove them wrong. Still running because after I proved them wrong I still needed to prove it to me.

So, can you answer this??? ....

I initially started running, because _________. I am still running, because ________.

Giveaway Winners ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review several great products.  You can read all about my fabulous experiences below.  Please visit them online and start shopping.

One winner was chose at random to receive the following: 

Random.org chose ……..

Beth Quinn Designs Necklace
Review - (HERE)
Website - (HERE)
Winner - Linda @ The Twinery (HERE) 

Sparkly Soul Headbands
Review - (HERE)
Website - (HERE)
Winner - Paula @ His Ways ... Are Not Our Ways (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 ) ]

PLEASE VOTE and Make My Dream a Reality!

Please take a moment to vote for me in the American Family Insurance Dream Camp Contest!

 

VOTE HERE

I have the chance to win one of three $10,000 prizes to expand Running Diva Mom - to continue inspiring others to achieve their dreams, too! I will also be mentored and coached at the 2013 Dream Camp. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You may vote/share once a day from each computer and mobile device until Feb 17^th.  Click the “i” button on the enclosed link for more information on my dream. 

Make my dream a reality ……

In less than two years part-time, I have coached 200 people to their first 5K and have introduced 55 more people to running this week through my programs.  I’m currently coaching at two local recreation programs and Catalyst Activewear when I am not with my children (I am a single parent).  Last year, my coaching experiences appeared in Brava Magazine, Shape Magazine and I will be featured in Women’s RunningMagazine next month.  I am currently featured in Catalyst’s commercial and we are currently planning a women’s running retreat and a non-competitive, women’s 5K event in the Madison-area.  It is my goal to continue growing my business, focus on these events, and continuing proving to others (especially women and mothers) that is necessary and unselfish to make time for yourself each day.

Thanks for your support!

 

VOTE HEREYou may vote/share once a day until Feb 17. Thanks for your continued support! (click the "i" button for more information on my dream)e mentored and coached at the 2013 Dream Camp. You may vote/share once a day until Feb 17. Thanks for your continued support! (click the "i" button for more information on my dream)

http://www.youtube.com/amfam?x=us_dreamcamp2013_2623_

Grocery Carts.

I was at the grocery store the other day.  I had my list, and I was sticking to it.  I started with the fresh produce and loaded up the bottom of the cart.  I then  headed over to grab some fresh yogurts, milk and cheese.  As I headed over to the frozen foods section, I was loading up on frozen vegetables for dinners this week.  Of course, later I was headed to grab the kids some snacks for school, canned vegetables, and some portion-controlled snacks for myself.



I saw a very heavy-set man with a smile on his face, as he walked towards the ice cream aisle.  His cart was filled with tons of prepackaged items - cookies, breads, chips, crackers, pasta, sauces, dips. Who knows what else was in there.  Aren't you always curious what is in the cart next to you?  Take a peek sometime.

I then saw a woman shuffling slowly, several feet behind him.  Her arms were filled with boxes of waffles, ice cream bars and frozen meals.  She was red in the face, winded and cussing at her husband as he kept walking off with the cart.  She just wanted to put the six boxes of goodies down.  Her eyes filled with tears her breathing got heavier.  She continued to struggle.  Seriously, struggling with a few boxes of groceries in tow.  He continued laughing, until she smacked him from behind.

This made me sad.  I wanted to say something.  I wanted to do something for both of them.  Maybe give them a lightbulb moment.  Maybe, I should have stepped outside of my comfort zone and handed them my business card.  But, I didn't.  It's not my place to tell someone, a stranger, how to live their life.  I was still frustrated when I saw them in the parking lot, when I loaded my groceries into the Marathon Mommy Minivan.  She was still made and huffy and puffing while she put the cart away in the cart corral.  I can only help people that ask to be helped in the coaching setting.  I can't force a lifestyle or behavior on someone that doesn't ask for it.

Having struggled with my weight my entire life, I can relate to a small degree.  The balance of food and exercise has always been something that I look for.  But, it just reinforces how a few of my new habits from the past decade-or-so have truly become that - habits.  I don't struggle too much when splurging on $3.50 out-of-season strawberries for my family, when I previously would have tossed a $3.50 bag of chips in the cart without thinking. 

What's in the grocery cart behind you next time?

Icebreaker Indoor Half Marathon 2013 Race Report

Well, I finished my second indoor half marathon.  I even brought along a few friends this time.  I set the alarm for 5:45 for the trek to the Milwaukee-area's Icebreaker Indoor Half Marathon (HERE) at the Pettit Ice Arena.  The weekend was full of events and there were two half marathons - one at 7am and one at 9:30 am.  It was nice to enter the later event, so that the kids could sleep-in, stay home with grandma and grandpa and I didn't have to splurge on hotel accommodations.

 

The Boyfriend and I

We arrived about an hour early to get our packets, get settled, have some last-minute carbs ... and use the restroom about four-five times.  Hey, there were no lines - you've gotta take advantage of it.  We got some nice 13.1 shirts in our goody bags - probably better suited for the female athletes, but I'm not complaining.

I was excited for The Boyfriend, as this would be his second 13.1 journey.  He also recently signed up for his first 26.2 mile journey in May.  I love how he has related to my passion and found passion in it, too.

I ran into Amy from Running is Cheaper than Therapy (HERE).  She had just finished her event, which we ran together last year.  She was given the opportunity to run the full marathon the next day and took them up on the chance, on the spot.  Yep, she's pretty amazing.

I had carpooled with Patti and Christina, who were in my previous Couch to 5K programs.  They then went onto 10Ks and both ran their first half marathon last fall.  I was really excited to have them join me at this rare, indoor half marathon event.  Something that most don't get to experience.

We were off, shortly after 9:30 for 47ish laps around the ice arena.  It was a great time.  We were in the later - supposedly slower - event.  So, it was nice not constantly getting passed, like I did last year.  The Boyfriend passed me a few times.  I passed friends a few times.  It was nice just to touch base once in awhile.

My left foot (aka massive bunion) has been bothering me since the holidays.  It's just gotten worse.  Around mile six, it really started aching and I could tell that I was compensating for the pain.  I must have been bracing myself with my middle toes and they were starting to cramp.  I pushed the pain, lap after lap.  Never had a side stich or stomach ache.  So, I'll take the good with the bad.

I carried mmy handheld water bottle, filled with plain H20.  They also offer a volunteer water station.  I left a labeled bottle filled with Powerade Zero, since I know I would turn my nose up to the usual lemon lime Gatorade.  I simply called my number out a few times during the race.  And, on my next lap, the bottle was waiting for me.  I ran double-fisted for a lap, and returned it to the table after I closed the lap.  A pretty simple process.  By the end of the race, I had consumed both bottles, despite the cold ice arena temperatures.

I watched the runner board count my laps.  There were about 125 runners in the event, as we ran in the right lane and passed in the left lane.  Towards the end of the race, someone yelled "Go, Running Diva Mom!".  It was Koreen, a reader of RDM, that I was fortunate to meet out on the course.  Gave me a little extra post those last few laps.  Finally, I heard my bloggy buddy Bill - who was also the announcer, call, "Jamie Edge - you have one mile to go!".  I sped up and saw that two hours was fast approaching.  I started feeling gaggy and pulled it back a bit.  It's one thing to get sick at an outdoor race, but I had already seen Bill clean up someone else's vomit earlier off of the track.  I pulled back and saw my watch say a 2:00:02.  A little disappointing, but not too shabby since I really hadn't been "training" for the event.  I looked up my time online and it was off by about a 1:30.  So, I'm not sure what happened with their timing system.

A really fun event, that I will do again and again to break up the boredom of Wisconsin Winter running.

 

Amy and I

Me, Patti and Christina

 

 

 

 

M



y foot

 

 

Me with Koreen, and RDM reader

 

 

 

Watch Time:  2:00:01

Chip Time:  1:58:30

Twitter @RunningDivaMom

You can now follow Running Diva Mom on Twitter. 

Follow me:  @RunningDivaMom

 

Join the conversation:  #RunningDivaMom

Sparkly Soul Headbands Review & Giveaway

Sparkly Soul Headbands (HERE) are no headache and no slip....yes, REALLY no headache and no slip. Their patent pending design makes certain that your headbands stay in place - no matter how intense your sports or fitness activity.  These are very similar to the many other designs out on the market.  The prices is great and the variety of colors is awesome.  I love some *sparkle* in my life - and these headbands are a great way to add a little something to your running wordrobe.  Great to wear alone or paired with a pony tail.  I tend to like them better when I have my hair up, because my hair doesn't lay right with these thin headbands.  These fit adults and children and are great for any recreational activity when you want to keep your hair out of your eyes.

 

 

They offer sparkle around the entire headband, not just the top.  The whole headband is elastic and stretchy - hence no headaches.  We struggle with enough out on a long run - who needs to add a headache to the mix.

 

Thin Headbands (HERE) - retail for $15 and are 3/8 inch

Thick Headbands (HERE) - retail for $17 and are 5/8 inch

 

They offer dozens of colors and designs.  If you dont' see what you want to match that perfect uniform or workout gear - you simply need to email Sparkly Soul and they'll find something perfect for you!  Pretty sweet.

 

I tried the wide blue headband and the thin rainbow headband.  Both were cute - and FULL OF SPARKLE.  I just know that Little Diva is going to want to try these again.  The added some fun color to my all-black running wordrobe and some excitement to a dreary morning run outside.

 

 

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One lucky winner will win a
Sparkly Soul Headband
of their Choice
(Retail Value:  $15-$17) 

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 Sparkly Soul website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Sparkly Soul 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 Saturday, January 19.

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

[These opinions are all my own.  I received the products/samples for free and was not compensated for this review.]

Beth Quinn Designs Necklace Review & Giveaway

I came across Beth Quinn Designs (HERE) through Facebook this Fall and fell in love with Beth's pieces.  I love quotes - meaningful quotes.  Her jewelry really spoke to me, and provided a sense of strength through her words.  May sound silly.  But sometimes, it's the little things that make us reflect, make us smile, and make us stronger.  My morning quotes, posted over on the RDM Facebook page (HERE) provide daily inspiration to many of you.  Just think how Beth's beautiful pieces worn around your neck could provide constant , daily inspiration and motivation.

 

 

When I came across Beth Quinn Designs, I posted a picture of the beautiful, "With Brave Wings She Flies" Necklace (HERE).  There was sooooo much incredible, positive feedback - everyone wanted one.  Beth was thrilled with your comments and interested and she sent me a piece to review (and you get the chance to win one, too!).

 

Necklace Description:  a wonderful sentiment of encouragement for any she .. the large 25mm hand glittered charm reads " with brave wings she flies" and a wonderful wing dangles on the necklace. please choose chain length and style..and now choose your own plating gunmetal vintage style or classic silver ..

 

 



 

 

This necklace speaks to me in quite a few areas of my life.   From my life-changes over the past couple of years.  From my journey through running.  From my constant search for seeking balance between work, family and my dreams of making RDM a life-long passion.  I feel like I've grown.  I've spread my wings.  And, I'm soaring my way onto higher goals, bigger dreams and things are becoming a reality.  I love Beth Quinn's necklace for the fact that it proves that statement.  To me, the beautiful wing not only symbolizes my personal attempt to be strong - but also the wonderful support system that has surrounded me, encouraged me, believed in me, mentored me.  Thank you to everyone that is reading this.  This one's for you!

 

 

 

 

I also want this beautiful "Her Happily Ever Begins Today" Necklace (HERE) someday, when I am remarried. What a beautiful sentimate for a more-than-appropriate setting.

Beth Quinn Designs also offers a selection of Valentines Jewelry (HERE). Shop now and shop early for your valentine next month. Melt her heart!  Beth Quinn offers some great pieces for women, young girls, grandmothers, teachers - anyone that has touched your heart.  What great gifts!

 

 

 

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

One lucky winner will win a
Beth Quinn Designs
With Brave Wings She Flies Necklace
(Retail Value:  $40)

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 Beth Quinn Designs website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Beth Quinn Designs 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 Saturday, January 19.

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

[These opinions are all my own.  I received the products/samples for free and was not compensated for this review.]

Spots still available!!!

There are still spots available for the following Couch to 5K sessions this winter ...

Men's Couch to 5K Group - Starts 1/15 - Tuesdays at 6:00 PM - Sun Prairie - REGISTER HERE

Co-Ed 5K to 10K Group - Starts 1/22 - Tuesdays at 7:00 PM - Sun Prairie - email me at runningdivamom@yahoo.com

Co-Ed Couch to 5K Group - Starts 1/16 - Wednesdays at 5:30 PM - Catalyst - Madison -call/email Gail at Catalyst at 608-819-6433 or hello@catalystmadison.com

I'm sorry, but the Ladies' Couch to 5K Group in Sun Prairie sold out very, very quickly! 

You can read what the former Couch to 5K participants have to say about the program and their personal experiences (HERE).

Races and Coaching for 2013

So, like many of you ... I have been thinking about my race calendar for 2013.  Normally, I would be signing up for all sorts of events prior to December 31, prior to rate increases.  Not this year.  I'm not on my game.  But, it's been on my mind, as I've been setting schedules for my couch to 5K groups.  I'm looking forward to helping many, many people start their journeys this year.  I will be coaching close to fifty women this spring alone.

Are you racing any of these events???

January 19 - Icebreaker Indoor Half Marathon, Milwaukee, WI
March 17 - Shamrock Shuffle, Madison, WI (Coaching)
April 13 - American Cancer Society 10K, Madison, WI (Coaching)
April 27 - Crazylegs Classic 8K, Madison, WI
May 4 - Lake Monona 5K, Monona, WI (Coaching)
May 26 - Med City Marathon, Rochester, MN (Ambassador)
June 8 - Ludington Lakestride Half Marathon, Ludington, MI (Ambassador)

Serving as an ambassador in Rochester and Ludington this summer, I'm looking forward to exploring some new communities and sites - on foot. These are two places I have not yet visited.  Stay tuned for more information on these events.

The Startline

There is something about the racing atmosphere.  Every race is different.  But, the startline is always the same.

My stomach is in knots.  I have raced dozens of races, but every event has me beaming with excitement. And still some nerves.  I'm surrounded by hundreds other like-minded people.  Everyone "gets" me.  I'm up hours before the start of the event, only to find myself rushing for a parking spot.  I am spotted two, three, maybe four times in the port-o-potty line.  And I still somehow think I have to go, once I toe the startline.

I take a moment to check my shoelaces.  I make sure they are still tied, double-knotted.  I check placement of my timing chip.  My bib number is placed strategically on the from of my technical shirt - of course with four safety pins, to prevent it from flapping in the wind.

I over-analyze my gear, what I'm wearing.  Did I dress too warm?  Are my knee-high socks going to slide down.  My hair is held back by a colorful headband.

Oh shoot!  I forgot to apply an anti-chaffing cream before I left the house.

Runners are directed to the starting corral.  I place myself in the middle of the crowd, according to my 9:00 min/mile pace.  The National Anthem starts.  Runners around me mouth the lyrics.  I tear up a little.

The race starts, as runners shuffle toward the startline like a herd of cattle.  I only start my watch once my feet cross the timing mat.  I would hate for my time to be inaccurate.

And there I am, starting another chapter of my journey.  It doesn't matter if it is three miles, 13.1 or 26.2.  It's all the same.  And, I love it.

Giveaway Winners ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review several great products.  You can read all about my fabulous experiences at the links below.  Please visit their websites and start shopping.

One winner was chose at random to receive the following items.  Random.org chose ……..

Believe I am Strong Tee
RDM Review (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner -  Runodonnell (HERE)

TrailHeads Hat
RDM Review (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner - Running on Candy (HERE)

SLS Compression Socks
RDM Review (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner #1 - Benge/Laster Family (HERE)
Winner #2 - MagMileRunner (HERE)

Quest Nutrition Bars
RDM Review (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner - And We All Shine On (HERE)

Kitsch Hairties
RDM Review (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner - 4 AM Runner (HERE)

Bondi Band Ponytail Hat
RDM Review (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner - The Story of a Girl and Her Dogs (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 ) ]

Side-by-Side on the Treadmill

They say that the "honeymoon phase" lasts twelve to eighteen months.  But, does it have to?  I don't believe it.  I know that all relationships go through phases, changes, struggles.  Been there.  Done that.  But, do you need to lose that thing you have at the very beginning?

I love holding his hand.  I love the way he looks at me from across the room.  I love how he brings me my first cup of coffee on a Sunday morning - mixed just right.  I love that he surprises me with cards, thoughtful notes, and small gifts - just as I do for him.  I smile when I go to tackle the laundry and find my clothes folded along side the kids'. 

I love the fact that we love being active.  Together.  That we have several weekly running dates and trips to the gym.  We run side-by-side on the treadmill.  We've been together over a year and have never been to the movie theater.  Our time together consists of so much more.

I hate only having my kids fifty percent of their lives.  But, I also love that I'm trying to make the best of it.  That I've found a partner that I enjoy being with.  That I enjoy doing things with.  We make list after list of activities we want to do together and things we want to do with the kids.  A lifelong bucket list.   Short-term goals.  Long-term goals.  It is so neat having someone that I want to literally share every life experience with - and that he wants to be a part of this chaotic, fun situation that I call my life.

2012 done - 2013 Here I come!

I ended 2012 with 1,162 miles ... Raced 12 races .... Coached 62 people in 7 races. Didn't reach my 1,500 personal mileage goal, but the year was epic none the less!!

One year ago, I reflected on 2011 and set my goals high for 2012 (HERE).  It really doesn't seem that long ago.  It's pretty crazy how fast the past twelve months have flown by.  My life was full of running this year.  But, it wasn't focused on running.  Does that make sense?  I ran often and ran a lot with The Boyfriend, friends and groups I coached.  But I didn't have a ton of miles out on the pavement by myself ... training.  Running has truly become apart of my life and my routine and has even become apart of my career.  I get paid part-time to run, to run with people, to hold them acountable and make running fun.  It's a dream come true.  I expanded my coaching business to Catalyst (a local running store) and the Monona Rec Program.

I hardly ever used my treadmill this year, because I ran outside with other people so often - even through the Wisconsin winter.  At the end of the year, we joined a local gym.  I've been enjoying trying new machines, swimming, activities and classes - even with the family.

I ran my first indoor race - a half marathon.  I trained for three marathons, but only ran one.  One was downgraded to a half, due to the heat and the other was placed one week after Chicago and I voluntarily downgraded to the half marathon.  I didn't run a single PR this year, or even come close.

I ran a 200 mile journey with a group of eleven other bloggers from the midwest, as we ran Ragnar Relay from Madison, WIsconsin to Chicago, Illinois.  Two days, one night, 200 miles, no sleep.

I ran with Little Diva at her first 5K through the Girls on the Run Program.  I ran 26 miles on the beach while on a family trip to Florida.  The Boyfriend and I traveled to California for his first half marathon.

I was interviewed by BRAVA Magazine earlier this year and was featured in their August 2012 issue (HERE).  I was also featured by Women's Running Magazine as a Blogger on the Run in November (HERE) and will appear in the March 2013 issue of the magazine.  Women's Running Magazine also recently featured me as one of the top twelve bloggers of 2012 (HERE).

The Boyfriend and I tried out ziplining.  We purchased a state park pass this year and tried to use it as much as possible.

I've continued to find my way through co-parenting.  The Boyfriend moved in with us earlier this year and has been my rock and support, as the four adults involved try to raise my two children.  Something I never imagined I would need to deal with on the one side - yet be blessed to have such a supportive partner on the other.  We recently moved into a house with extra space and a yard.  The kids just turned 5 and 9 yrs old last week.   And I'm looking forward to the many wonderful memories we will make here.

I reunited with and met sooooo many people through RDM this year.  I continue to be so amazed that we all can connect - just by because we run.  We get our commitment to the sport.  To ourselves

Goals for 2012:

Have a new experience with the kids (place, activity) every month - HAD GREAT EXPERIENCES EACH MONTH, BUT NOT EVERYTHING WAS NEW
Run in a new location every month - MORE THAN 12 LOCATIONS, BUT NOT ONE EVERY MONTH
Remain debt-free by the end of the year - NOPE
Lose 15 lbs before my trip to Florida in March - NOPE
Meet 20 new bloggers in person - YEP
Run 1,500 miles - NOPE, 1,162
Run 2 full marathons , 6 half marathons and Ragnar Relay (Madison to Chicago) - NOPE
PR in the full marathon (sub 4:02:02) - NOPE
PR in the half marathon (sub 1:51:56) - NOPE
PR in the 5K (sub 24:46) - NOPE
Read three non-childrens books - ONLY ONE
Limit Diet Mountain Dew intake to one can per day and drink more water - NOPE
Work on my upper body and arms - JUST STARTED
Volunteer my time at races or through organizations - NOPE
Hike through five state parks - YEP
Expand my coaching business, coach 25 people to a 5K and implement a 5K to 10K training program - YEP
Zip-lining - YEP
Downhill skiing - NOPE
Rock-climbing - NOPE
Cross-country skiing - NOPE
Ice Skating - NOPE
Take the kids camping - NOPE
Visit a Drive-In Movie - NOPE
Geocaching - YEP

Goals for 2013:

Have one date alone with each child and The Boyfriend every month
Run 1,200 miles
PR in the 5K (sub 24:46)
Read three non-childrens books
Volunteer at a race
Purchase our home
Work on my "5 year coaching plan"
Downhill skiing
Rock-climbing
Ice Skating
Take the kids camping
Visit a Drive-In Movie