Cyndi Bands Review & Giveaway

CyndiBands (HERE) were created between a mother and daughter and shared with friends and family - and now the world.  A hair stylist had told Cyndi that it wasn't good to wash her hair every day.  This caused Cyndi to be a big fan of the ponytail.  CyndiBands was her own invention and alternative to the standard hair tie.  I helps prevent any damage or breaking and has made her hair healthier.  CyndiBands also don't dent/crease your hair.

 

 

I'm not one to wear my hair up when I exercise - I like to wear it down with a headband typically.  But, I do like to wear my hair up when I'm lounging around the house or doing other activity when I want my hair out of my face and eyes.  CyndiBands fit a little different than traditional hair ties.  They felt a little "looser" but they still really kept my hair in place.  I wasn't sure if the alternative to elastic hairties would be enough to keep my ponytail from moving, but it did.

 

I loved the variety of colors and fun patterns I was sent.  These are also great for young girls and youth sports teams.  CyndiBands also sells fun headbands (HERE) as well.

 

 

 

 

 

At just $5 for three hair ties or $10 for six hair ties, these are a an affordable investment for your everyday or workout routine.  These would also make little gifts or additions to your daughter's easter basket.

 

Have thicker hair that you can't typically get up in a ponytail - and have it stay in place?  No problem.  CyndiBands also offers thick hair tie options (HERE).

 

 

 

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One lucky winner will win
a Pack of CyndiBands
(US ONLY)

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

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

 

Enter now though March 24.

 

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

Giveaway Winners ...

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

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

Cool-Cat Pro Headband/Neck Gaitor:
RDM Article:  HERE
Company Website:  HERE
Winner:  Tessa Bridger HERE

 

Endurance Shield Skincare:

Company Website:  HERE
Winner:  Marcia Vasquez 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, event or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

2014 Celtic Run Before You Crawl 5K Race Report

Last Saturday was hubby's birthday - and our first race of the year (other than coaching).  This was my second year running the Green County YMCA's Celtic Run Before You Crawl 5K (HERE).  This was hubby's third year competing.  This was also his very first 5K event a few years ago - I still can't believe how far he's come.  It's scheduled the same weekend as their pub crawl.

 

 

We traveled down to Monroe, Wisconsin, hubby's hometown to run the race and celebrate his birthday.  The race started and ended at the Green County YMCA and many runners were dressed in their best green running gear for this event always held the weekend before St. Patrick's Day.  The weather was pretty decent and we didn't have to dress in too many layers.

 

I ran into Stacey W, who was one of my virtual coaching clients last year.  She lived about 20-30 mins in the opposite direction, and it was great to meet her at this race - finally.

 

I hadn't charged my ipod before we packed up our bags at home, so of course it was completely dead.  I managed to stream my iTunes from my iphone, which I stashed in my pocket and didn't mess with it during the race.

 

One thing I love about being married to this guy, is that I've moved way up in the alphabet and we always get the highest bib numbers (just kidding).  We got to the startline and were OFF shortly after 9am.  I was familiar with the route - and the hills - but still managed to go out way too fast.  We headed up the first hill and around the corner.  A lot of the snow had melted and caused puddles and then it froze over night.  They had asked runners to stay towards the middle of the road for safety and avoid slipping, but that didn't help.  There was no way of avoiding the slick, icy conditions.  The roads looked wet, but they were pure ice much of the time.  I tipped toed over the ice and managed not to fall.  Others weren't so likely.  I saw two runners fall backwards during the 3.1 miles.

 

I saw my mother-in-law cheer us on from the sidelines - that was a pleasant surprise.  My first mile was 8:20 and my second mile was 9:20.  That first mile was a little too fast for me - especially with all of those hills that I knew were waiting for me.  I ended up finishing the race with a decent 25:28 and finished 8/59 in my age group.  I told hubby that I was hoping to finish with 25 and some change, and I did just that.  So I was pretty happy.  I felt completely spent as I crossed the finish line.  Tired and exhausted.  That first race of the year is the hardest for me.

 

 

We finished our day out with some friends and family and enjoyed some local rootbeer, cheese and chili and toured the Minhas Brewery again (I love the Chocolate Bunny beer - and I am not one to enjoy beer!) and also used our Groupon to tour the distillery and sample sample sample.  We even ran into some other 5K runners that recognized us from the race.  We enjoyed some coffee, did some window shopping and had a tasty pizza at the Swiss Haus before turning in early for the night. 

Splashing around in puddles

The other day - in between classes, networking meetings, speaking engagements and running kids around in the marathon mommy minivan, I was able to fit in a nice 4.5 mile run - outside.  No hat.  No gloves.  Just two layers - and I overheated a bit.  It was an amazing feeling to get outside and put the miles in while the sun was out and the breeze was minimal.  The temperatures were in the 50's all day and it was awesome.  I saw people out in shorts, as they ran passed the piles of melting snow.  I'd pass people out on my route and everyone had a permanent smile on their face.  We were all feeling the same excitement. Like a cloud had been lifted.

 

 

It was nice not to have to worry about slipping on ice or dressing in layer-upon-layer.  Unfortunately all that snow was melting, causing puddles to take over the roads and the sidewalks.  It was kind of fun sloshing around and splashing in the unavoidable puddles.  My feet would get soaked and then they would dry, because of my awesome wicking socks and mesh shoes.  Over and over again.  I would have liked to run longer, but had to be responsible and head back home for work-related obligations. 

 

I'm looking forward to more weather like this later in the week - and I hope it sticks.  This winter has been a really rough one.  It's been the topic of discussion daily here.  And a lot of people experienced the winter blues more than ever this year.  If I hadn't been forced to do some running outside with my groups this winter and kept our gym membership for a couple of extra months, I'm not sure I would have survived with such a smile on my face.

Body Glove Surge Energy Shot Review & Giveaway

Have you used energy shots?  There is a lot of debate about them, that is for sure.  Whether you are up all night studying, have been up with the kids every hour, or are fueling for a long run, lots of people have given it a try. I've tried some and like them and benefited from them.  I've tried others and haven't felt the effects or have disliked the taste or consistency.

 

 

I was contacted by Body Glove to review their all-natural energy shot, Surge (HERE).  Hubby and I tried them a few times before runs.  I love grape flavor in general and loved it.  I don't think he liked the taste so much.  I enjoyed the taste and consistency much more than some of the others I've tried.  It was pretty easy to down.  It's also available in tropical berry flavor.  But I tend not to like berry-flavored drinks.

 

These energy shots utilize green tea, whey protein and high antioxidant fruits.  Pomegranate, honey and coconut water are also included in these shots.  They guarantee instant and long lasting natural energy.  I took it a good thirty minutes before my run, while I fueled with my breakfast, and I felt great during my run.

 

 

The Body Glove Surge energy shot supposedly reduces fatigue, increases alertness, enhances mental concentration and extends endurance and quickness reaction time  It also is supposed to boost your immune system.  A 2.5 fl oz container contains 50 calories.

 

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

One lucky winner will win a
Sampler Pack of
Body Glove Surge
(US ONLY) 

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 Body Glove Surge website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

 

4 – Become a fan of Body Glove Surge 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 @BodyGloveSurge #RunningDivaMom) account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

 

Enter now though Wednesday, March 19.

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

 

Tide Plus Febreze Freshness Sport Detergent Review

I'm just like any other mom ... almost every single day includes some laundry.  One load, two loads, three loads, four.  And being an active family, we tend to have more laundry than some.  Our laundry baskets tend to be filled with lots of running shorts, sweaty socks and Bondi Bands.  So, when I was contacted by Tide (HERE) to test out their new sports detergent, Tide plus Febreze Freshness Sport (HERE), I wanted to give it a test in the next wash cycle.

 

 

Tide plus Febreze Freshness Sport is specially designed for sports apparel and is formulated to help eliminate odor and leave your activewear clean and fresh. It contains Renewing Freshness technology that deep cleans fabrics to help remove tough stains like grass, dirt, clay, and blood, so clothes stay fresh.

 

If you are like me, you have some workout gear that still smells like you've just been to the gym - even after it's been washed several time.  I'm a huge sweater and struggle with this all of the time.  Tide Plus Febreze Sport smelt amazing and got all of the stink and sweat out of my clothes.  It fights the source of the odors, all the way down to the individual fibers in the fabric - amazing.  Available in April Fresh and Victory Fresh scents.

 

 

Astrosportswear Sports Bra Review & Giveaway

I was introduced to Astrosportswear (HERE) last year.  The owner was a runner and figure skater and enjoyed designing her clothing to be functional, stylish and supportive.  She started out designing leotards and tights and then grew her business to include shorts, sports bras, swimwear for athletes of all kinds.  She designs and makes most of the items herself and contract sout the sewing to provide you with the best customer service possible.  She prides her clothing line on honor, integrity and the best materials in activewear.  Love it.

 

Over the past six months I've rotated the Astrosportswear Sports Bra Maillot into my rotation of sports bras.  I requested a size medium and it has worked great.  This bra is designed to support all activities - including running.  I typically like a bra with "less coverage" and don't like the tighter varieties.  This one felt really comfortable, even though it appeared to be "full coverage" upon receipt.  It did allow for a full range of motion through the arms and back - as advertised.  I hate running and feeling restricted when I swing my arms.  This bra didn't do that.  I loved the criss-cross back and the straps weren't too thin or flimsy.  They also weren't too thick either (again not "over-coverage").  It worked great layered under a technical race shirt.  I also felt comfortable in it under a sweatshirt when out running errands. The color is also holding up wash-after-wash.

 

 

These bras are available in XS to large and girls sizes 7-14.  There are number of fun color patterns.  They would look great when layered with a contrasting tank.

 

The Astrosportswear bras and tanks tend to range from $30-$45 on their site and come in a variety of coverage and strap styles.

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

One lucky winner will win
a Bra from
Astrosportswear

(US ONLY)

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

4 – Become a fan of Astrosportswear 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 @astrosportswear #RunningDivaMom) account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

 

Enter now though Monday, March 17.

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

A day at Catalyst

When I decided to quit my day job and become a full-time running coach this year, I knew that I would need to supplement my time elsewhere.  I feel so fortunate to be working at a lovely running store on Madison's east side, Catalyst (located across from The Barrymore).  I had been running a lot of my running groups out of the store for a few years now.  In fact, Gail actually completed one of my first couch to 5K programs.  Her husband, Jim, is one of the UW Womens Track & Cross Country coaches.  They have been great mentors for me over the past couple of years and are great motivators and have helped me pursue my dreams. 

 

 

I love working at the store, getting folks fit for running shoes, talking to everyone about working out, touch all of the colorful technical clothing, learning about yoga from yogis, learning about running techniques from Jim, learning about retail from Gail and just being in my element.  I feel like this is the perfect supplement to my role as running coach and blogger at Running Diva Mom. 

 

The store is so inspiring and whimsical.  I like to call it a "running store boutique".  It's a great asset to the Madison running community.  The unique apparel, the fun displays, the lighting, the warm fireplace.  The customers are great.  There is an awesome biking/running path nearby that gets tons of action year-round (It's even really clear in the winter months, since so many folks bike in to downtown). 

 

The store provides activewear - not just running gear.  We offer tons of yoga apparel, hiking apparel and great casual wear.  With tons of bras from Handful, Moving Comfort and more, you can also receive a custom bra fitting during your visit.

 

The staff at Catalyst performs custom video taped footstrike analysis in this low-key and encouraging atmosphere.  Don't worry, we only tape you from the knees-down!  I love helping runners (new and seasoned) pick out the perfect running shoe for them.  This has been a great option for participants in my running shoes.  Because now I also get to help them find "the shoe".

 

With a kids station nearby, it's the perfect spot to shop with your kids.  Dog portraits are on display throughout the store (painted by Jim and Gail's daughter, Katie), so pooches are welcome too. You'll often see the adorable store mascot, Fergie, greeting you.

 

I love meeting with the reps from the various companies.  Since I've been converted to a Saucony gal, I loved meeting with Paul and seeing the new line of Saucony Originals.  I love running shoes.  I love the colors and the interesting color combinations.  I have really enjoyed learning what makes up a running shoe and why they are constructed the way they are - to make you a better and more efficient runner.

 

 

 

Catalyst also recently introduced their shoe loyalty program.  After you've purchased three pairs of running shoes from Catalyst, your fourth pair is 50% off.  With great brands like Saucony, Adidas, Mizuno, Merrell and New Balance - there is something for every neutral runner, pronator and barefoot runner.  We have a great assortment of casual shoes, athletic shoes for classes and hiking shoes.

    

 

 

Stop in and see me soon!!!  I'd love to get you in the right pair of shoes.

 

2045 Atwood Avenue, Madison, WI

www.catalystmadison.com

 

 

Cool-Cat Pro Headband/Neck Gaitor Review & Giveaway

Last year, I came across Cool-Cat Pro (HERE) online.  This is not your typical "headband".  It can also be worn as a neck wrap or neck gaitor.  It will protect your from the heat and sun in the summer and the wind and cold in the winter. 

 

I've been using mine around my neck .... ALOT .... during this brutal Wisconsin winter.  It's great for runners, cross country skiers, downhill skiers, and walkers in the winter.  It just adds a little bit of extra warmth in spots that may be open and exposed to the winter conditions.  And it cuts the wind.  I love being able to pull it up as a facemask.  And then when I surprisingly get warm (even in sub-zero temps), I am able to pull it down as a neck gaitor. 

 

 

Available in an assortment of colors:  orange, blue, black, white, yellow, grey, red and ... pink!  A portion of the proceeds from Pink Cool Cats goes to Susan G. Komen.

 

I was sent a blue headband for review.  It was cute, with contrasting yellow stitching.  The fabric is super, super soft. 

 

These are a great accessory, priced at under $20 plus shipping form the Cool-Cat Pro website.  Mine has been washed over and over again - and it hasn't faded or frayed.

 

Made from 100% Polyester Micro-fiber, your Cool-Cat will also wick moisture (sweat) away from your skin and hair to keep you cool when it's hot. The lightweight, breathable, microfibre fabric is also wind resistant and extremely comfortable to wear.   This is extremely adjustable - especially with the nice fasteners.

 

As you can see by the Christmas tree - I've been using mine ALL winter long (will it ever end?!?!).  I just put it on with my base layer of running gear and then put my shell over it.  Nice and cozy.

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

One lucky winner will win a
Cool-Cat Pro
Headband
(US ONLY)

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 Cool-Cat Pro website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Cool-Cat Pro 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 @CoolCatPro #RunningDivaMom) account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

 

Enter now though Thursday, March 13.

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

Book'n It Run 5K & 10K - Sun Prairie, WI

If you would like to help out a good cause while getting in shape and having fun, then the Book’n It Run for Literacy is for you!  All proceeds from the run go to the Sun Prairie Public Library.

 

 

2014 Book’n It Run for Literacy

5k/10k Run, 5k Walk,

1 Mile Fun Run & 100 Meter Dash 

August 2, 2014

8:00 AM at Sheehan Park

 

PRE-REGISTRATION IS $25

By July 19, 2014

Includes T-SHIRT

 

REGISTRATION INCLUDES:

CHIP TIMING

FOOD BEFORE RACE

RAFFLE PRIZES

GOOD TIME!

 To REGISTER or for more information go to www.booknitrun.com

 A SUN PRAIRIE PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION EVENT

Free Race Entry Winners ....

I was recently given the opportunity to spotlight two upcoming events on Running Diva Mom.  I look forward to participating in both half marathons.

One winner was chose at random to receive a free entry to the events below.  Random.org chose ……..

 

 

 

Women Run Pewaukee Half Marathon & 5K
May 9-10, 2014
Discount code "RDMWRP5" for 5% off

RDM Article (HERE)
Event Website (HERE)
Winner:  Marcia @ Too Cute Runner (HERE)





 

Lake Michigan Trail Marathon
August 31, 2014
Marathon, Half Marathon, 50K, 20 miler
Discount code "lakemich5" for $5 off
RDM article (HERE)
Event website (HERE)
Winner:  Katie M (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, event or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Refuel with Wisconsin Chocolate Milk

After long workouts, it’s easy to forget to stretch - and refuel.  Sometimes you just want to go home and tackle your ever-growing to do list.  After five to ten minutes of stretching I love refueling with a cold glass of low-fat chocolate milk.  It's a tasty, healthy indulgence and I feel like I’m treating myself after a run.  Low-fat chocolate milk repairs the muscles that I broke down mile-after-mile and replenishes the electrolytes that I lost during my run.  Learn more from John Dettmann, University of Wisconsin Director of Strength and Conditioning (HERE).

 

The Wisconsin dairy industry does more than just provide the delicious dairy products that your family knows and loves.  It helps preserve our beautiful countryside - providing abundant recreational opportunities that help make Wisconsin a beautiful place to live, enjoy, be active and work.  The dairy industry also creates jobs that keeps our communities strong throughout the entire state of Wisconsin.

 

Show your support for the Wisconsin dairy industry each time you are in the store - with a FREE Dairy Impact Pledge to Chocolate Milk.  Your free pledge does not require any monetary commitment.  Make your free pledge like I did.  Each week, Wisconsin Dairy will pick one random supporter to win a FREE Wisconsin Dairy Gift Basket -  including famous, Wisconsin cheese, chocolate milk and other fun swag!

Do you refuel with chocolate milk?

 

 

Day Date at Artful Escapes

I  had purchased a Living Social Deal to a new painting studio in the Madison-area and we finally got around to using it on a recent kid-free weekend.  The hubby and I drove to Fitchburg to try out Artful Escapes.  The class was slated for 2 1/2 hours and I wasn't sure how we were going to fill an entire Sunday afternoon, painting a blank canvas.  But, we did.

 

 

The two instructors were great and the bridal shower at the tables nearby kept it entertaining.  Hubby was the only guy in the group, but he made the best of it.  I've seen a lot of photos on social media from the studio.  There are a lot of other guys participating in these classes as well.

 

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it.  It was so therapeutic and relaxing.  It was nice just to sit down for once and get lost in something like this.  And, it did take us the full 2 1/2 hours to complete our paintings.  And the time flew by.  Loved this place - and we will be back.

 

Artful Escapes also has a bar with refreshments, to make this and even more fun outing!  This place would make a great venue for a girls night out, date night, bridal/bachelorette parties.  I also look forward to taking Little Diva sometime for a little mother/daughter time, as she loves to be artistic and creative.