12 mile Trail Run with Hubby & a Giveaway!!

Hubby had 12 miles on tap on Saturday (he has a 1/2 Ironman next month) and I had my last "longish" run of 10 miles on tap for Sunday (my marathon is next Sunday). After all of the stress we've been having (mentioned in my last post), we decided that we needed a break from the kids ... and life ... and top spend some time together. We decided to run 12 miles together on Saturday at the Glacial Drumlin State Trail HERE. We dropped the kids off at my in-laws for a couple of hours and drove to the trail head. Hubby has run several long training runs on this trail. I had never been there. The temperature was about 77 degrees when we left the car and the sun was beating down (hence the squinty eyes!).

Pre-Run Couples Photo

Trail Head in Cottage Grove

I have run on some trails before during races. But, otherwise I run on roads or paved pedestrian paths. Let me tell you that my first 2-3 miles were awful. I had to adjust where I was on the path to get the most compact gravel, because my shins and my calves were absolutely killing me. One mile in, I began wondering whether I would be regretting this tomorrow ... or worse next Sunday for my marathon. I pushed through it and hydrated myself in the heat with my GoLite Hydroclutch and felt good-to-go after mile 3. We ran to the six mile marker and turned around and headed back. I always run solo, so it was nice to have someone to keep me company. We talked on and off and made random comments ... because I'm not a conversationalist during my runs. The scenery was the same over-and-over but beautiful, calming and a nice break from my neighborhood runs. Each mile marker was marked and there were lots of cyclists out on the beautiful Saturday afternoon.

We returned back to the trail head in 1:57:17.

Today's Couples After Workout "Glow"

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

Today, I finally was able to try my Lock Laces. You can check them out online HERE.

Hubby encouraged me to wear an older pair of running shoes to the trail, if I didn't want to dirty up my good pair for my race next week. I had my Lock Laces ready to go in the old pair already and decided to size them up today.

What their website says:

Lock Laces™ are a patented* “elastic lacing system” that feature specially designed elastic laces combined with a spring activated locking device. Lock Laces™ are great for running, triathlon, playing sports and casual wear.Lock Laces™ are also ideal for children, the elderly and the physically challenged. Wear Lock Laces™ with all styles of running shoes, athletic shoes and casual lace-up shoes for any desired use. When using Lock Laces™, you never have to stop to retie your laces during any race, sport or activity.With Lock Laces™ you can simply slip your shoes on and off, no more tying and untying laces or double knots! Lock Laces™ provide convenience, superior comfort, more flexibility and a better fit compared to cotton or nylon shoelaces.


I wore mine today for the first time. I was going to wear them for my 22 miler but chickened out. I was too scared to try something new on a long run like that.

They worked out great today. It was nice not worrying about shoelaces getting untied. They stayed in place the entire 2 hours.

The instructions are available on the site HERE. The package also includes some instructions, but the images were so small, that it was hard to figure out exactly what I was supposed to be doing. It was also fun to try out the pink set of laces and add some fun to my otherwise boring running shoes. It was also nice after my long run not to have to bend down and deal with until a double knotted shoe laces. You know much of a pain (literally!) that is!!! I can just slip them on again next time and they will fit perfectly.

I did initially knot the laces a little too tight at first, because I was worried about them moving around. My baby toes were starting to go numb on our drive to the trail today. I was able to adjust them though and they worked absolutely fine. No numb toes while running today!

The last step is cutting the laces, after you have the perfect fit. I really liked them, but I wonder at $4.99 a pop what you do when you need new running shoes?! Can you lace them up in your new shoes and try to make them work. Or do you have to buy a new pair of laces, too?

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

Hubby and I also used some of Chill Towels after our HOT workout today. You can find them online HERE. I've used them several times now after long training runs (some photos from a 20 miler below). I was able to check out the small, medium and large sizes of the Chill Towel.

Today it was really warm out side and when I took my towel out of the package (and out of my sauna of a vehicle) post-run it was a little warm. I just shook it out and it cooled right down, and was ready to cool me off. Pretty cool!

I have trouble with my eyes burning after long runs and races, because the sweat and salt gets in my eyes. It's really nice to wipe off my face and my eyes right away so that doesn't happen.

I've used Action Wipes before and wasn't sure how these would be different. But, I like these. They are meant for one-time use but aren't disposable, like Action Wipes. I just put them in the laundry and the kids have been using them for washcloths in the bathtub.

What their website says:

Consumer response to our 100% cotton terry cloth cooling towel, which is pre-moistened with a unique formula, has been overwhelming. CHILL's instant cooling sensation cuts the heat anytime anywhere. In fact independent tests indicate that, right out of the package without refrigeration, CHILL Cooling Towels are about 20 degrees cooler than body temperature.

Benefits of CHILL Cooling Towels:
Helps to reduces body temperature by aiding the natural perspiration evaporation process
Aids in preventing overheating while it helps to invigorate and energize
Can help improve endurance and aids in decreasing fatigue
All natural ingredients
Instantly cool, no refrigeration necessary, CHILL is 20+ degrees lower than your body temperature, right out of the bag
Towels are naturally anti-bacterial and antiseptic
Does not effect player’s grip
Leaves skin feeling fresh and clean
Contains skin moisturizer, aloe vera

I really think these will work great after races. I think you would benefit from these more at a race much more so than returning home after a workout. I can just hop in the shower then. You can just slip this into your running bag and you'll be good to go after the race. I will surely have one or two in my bag next weekend. I can wipe off my Gu-filled hands and the salt off of my face right away!

They claim to also work for hot flashes!! :-)


One lucky winner will win a small, medium and large Chill Towel!!!

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

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

2 – Visit the Chill Towel website HERE and tell me something you learned. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

Enter now though Thursday, May 27.
Winner will be announced on Friday.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at jamie dot edge at charter dot net]

Eating Poorly, Cheaply and Gaining Weight ... It's Taper Time!

I'm one week out from my marathon next weekend. Which means taper time. I am running 10 miles on Sunday, but I feel like that's nothing at this point and my six miler around neighborhood yesterday afternoon was just a short jaunt around my 'hood. It's amazing how it doesn't seem like much of a commitment to head out the door for a one hour run right now.

While running less .... I'm eating more. I can't stop myself. I'm constantly hungry and craving sweets. I never bring sweets into the house, but baked chocolate chip cookies last night and cinnamon rolls this morning. I've been buying ice cream and cones to make our own ice cream cones at home instead of our 2-3 week indulgence for $1 cones at McDonald's.

We've been eating cheap processed foods like Mac-n-Cheese (which we mix with broccoli or peas for Mac-n-trees or Mac-n-peas -- gotta get the kids their veggies somehow), grilled cheese sandwiches and soup. This is a far cry from our usually healthy veggie-loaded, low-carb, unprocessed meals from the past few months. And, I feel bloated.

Why are we doing this? Well, hubby lost his job last week and we are scrambling to make ends meet. I work part-time and stay home with the kids 2 days/week. His income is double mine and we are really trying to budget ourselves; food obviously included. We will be going to our small town farmer's market today to get some healthy veggies at dirt cheap, but otherwise, we've stocked our pantry with tons of processed foods. You do what you have to do. At least I'm carb-loading this week!!!!

One great CHEAP recipe we've tried in the past and the kids enjoyed last night, Cornbread Casserole ... under $2 for the entire casserole! I only buy generic!
1 can corn
1 can creamed corn
1 can jiffy cornbread mix
1 egg
Mix and bake at 425 degrees for 45 mins

I had only gained 2 lbs when I last stepped on the scale, but fear that this taper and budget crisis is going to bring on the pounds this week. Heck, I'll work it all off next Sunday!! Right?!

Noelle Orozco -- Run Like a Girl Pendant Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review a unique Run Like a Girl pendant from Noelle Orozco. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Noelle Orozco's Etsy Shop online HERE and start shopping.

There were 95 entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random.

Random.org chose ……..

Rad Runner HERE

Congratulations, Rad Runner!!! Please email me at jamie dot edge at charter dot net 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 jamie dot edge at charter dot net]

Three Things Thursday

1 -

One VERY cool blogger keeps snagging me my race photo proofs, and sending them to me, out of the kindness of his heart. I just received this cute photo of Chelsea from Early Runner with me at Crazylegs last month. Aren't we adorable?! Looking forward to more, fun bloggy meet-ups this summer!! Let me know if you are attending any of the 2010 events listed on my sidebar!!

2 -

Hubby and I sat down and watched the latest The Biggest Loser "marathon episode" last night. I couldn't agree with Tall Mom's comments on the episode more HERE. I love running and watching The Biggest Loser. So, of course I was really looking forward to this episode. But, they really go about this all wrong. They make it look like they've only been training for one month for their 26.2 mile journey, while they really have been on the ranch for months, pushing themselves to new limits. And, the trainers went off on Daris about his small (yes, very small!) weight gain. This peeved me off. He's obviously enjoying his new LIFESTYLE (which is what this is all about, right?!) and has made running a HUGE part of his life .... and he's fueling himself .... to succeed. They obviously want him to have huge, unmaintainable weightloss in a short period of time .... while his goals have obviously become quite different .... which he has ACHIEVED! I say, good for him! He's running faster than I am these days. And, he absolutely rocked that marathon, even with an injury. I, myself haven't lost a pound with this marathon training. I can't stop eating .... and have treated myself quite a few times to ice cream. All things in moderation, that's what I say.

3 -

Speaking of marathons ..... There are only TEN DAYS until my second 26.2 mile journey!!! EEK! The Madison Marathon is next Sunday and I'm on an emotional roller coaster!! Somedays I feel prepared and others I don't. For my first marathon (Chicago '08), I had 4 20+ mile runs and ran 4-5 days a week. Now I am running 6 days a week consistently and had a 17 mile treadmill run, a 20 miler and a 22 miler only. My consistency and frequency make me confident, however I am not sure what I can do with only three super-long runs under my belt. I now have 6 additional half marathons under my belt and two 10-mile races.

I looked over the new course yesterday and since I'm a "local" I'm able to envision myself along the course. I see myself strolling along with a gel in hand, a cute Bondi Band on my head and a picturesque day. With so many other factors that could possible through a wrench into my plan of finishing between 4:20 - 4:30, I sure hope that the weather cooperates. My Chicago time two years ago was 4:37 and I would love to shave 10-15 minutes off of my time. My half marathon times are around 1:56 - 1:58 these days. I'm not sure what to expect for a full?!?

How much did you improve

during your second marathon??

EOS Lip Balm Review & Giveaway

I was given the opportunity to try out some awesome lip balm from EOS (the Evolution of Smooth). I tried The Lip Balm Sphere in Honeysuckle Honeydew and the Lip Balm in Sweet Mint.

Visit EOS Lip Balm online HERE.

Visit EOS on Facebook HERE.

I use to be a bright pink lipstick girl that reapplied my makeup once or twice a day; then turned to applying sparkly lipgloss after Little Diva arrived; since Little Dude arrived 2+ years ago, I’m lucky if I re-apply “my lips” after my 5:30 AM application in the morning. I am still a diva-at-heart and love my makeup and a little something on my lips, but I want something that is no-fuss and becomes a constant staple in my makeup bag. I also like something with a little flavor to it, that isn't too strong or strange.

First of all, I really loved the packaging of the Lip Balm Sphere. First impression of the Sphere, based on presentation was great. The smooth sphere was really unique and even Little Diva was intrigued by the shape. Nothing over-powering or strong. Just sweet and light. I loved that the Balm (stick) was thicker/wider than other lip balms I've tried (almost twice as wide). It really does glide on much different than any other stick I've tried. The mint was yummy and gave my lips a little cooling sensation. The fuity honeysuckle taste from the Sphere was perfect for summer!! The balm inside the sphere was like a small egg. The cap just twists and pops right off. The bottom is flat, so it can sit on your desk or on your night stand, without rolling. Neither balm left a hint of color, but they did leave a matted-shine (if that is possible?!). I really liked it and may be converted to a lip balm girl now, when I'm away from the office.

About the lip balm:
Long-lasting moisture
Shea butter & vitamin E
Smoothes on clear
Gluten-free
Paraben-free
Petrolatum-free
Phthalate-free

Who wouldn’t want to try these FRUITY SUMMER FLAVORS?!
- Lemon Drop
- Honeysuckle Honeydew
- Summer Fruit
- Sweet Mint
- Vanilla Bean
- Pomegranate Raspberry

EOS lip balm is 95% organic, 100% natural, and paraben and petrolatum free. Packed with antioxidant-rich vitamin E, soothing shea butter and jojoba oil, eos keeps your lips moist, soft and sensationally smooth.

They are also offering shaving cream and soon ... body lotion!

You can find EOS products locally at CVS, Target, Rite Aid, and Walgreens.
SRP: ONLY $3.29!!!

PUCKER UP!!!!

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

Two lucky winners will win one of the following:
- Lip Balm Sphere in Sweet Mint
- or -
- Lip Balm in Vanilla Bean

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

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

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

3 – Become a fan of EOS Lip Balm on Facebook HERE. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

Enter now though Sunday, May 23rd.
Winner will be announced on Monday.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom,
please email me at jamie dot edge at charter dot net]

REMINDER -- Girls on the Run Virtual Race

Thank you to all of you fabulous people that have signed up for my Girls on the Run Virtual Race!! You can read about all of the details HERE. If you're committed, don't forget to email/comment with a link to your virtual race report. I'm enjoying reading everyone's experiences and seeing how you are getting your little runners involved. Thank you for helping support my journey!!!

600 miles down ..........

Two weeks out from my marathon, I had my last "long" run of 12 miles on Sunday. It felt great to know that all of the long training runs were behind me. The exciting day is just around the corner and I couldn't be more excited. That last long run set me just over 600 miles for the year! I know that I wouldn't be this dedicated if I hadn't signed up for this marathon back in December. It has kept me scheduled and held me accountable. I definitely need that.

I had a nice four mile jaunt with Little Dude this morning, while pushing him in his car. I am really getting addicted to that thing and will take him out in it 2-3 times a week now. He just chills and takes in the scenery, points out boats parked in driveways, tractors out in the fields, Little Diva's school and just looks up at me and grins. It's the best experience!!!

I also noticed that there are now over 300 of you following my journey! Thank you for joining me ... pushing me to new limits ... encouraging me to set new goals .... and for inspiring me!

Laken & Lila $25 Gift Certificate Winner ......

Hi everyone! Sorry, time has gotten away from me lately. And, I completed my last longish run this weekend of 12 miles. Only 2 weeks to go until my second marathon! Bring it on! The weather was pretty decent this weekend. Not warm. But, comfortable and great weather for the kiddos to be outside. We started tackling potty training with Little Dude. It's not going very well at all. But, at least most of our accidents have been outside while he's playing. It can only get better, right?!

In all of the chaos that life has brought my way lately, I forgot to announce the winner of the $25 gift certificate to Laken & Lila's Etsy shop HERE. You can read my review of Little Diva's Laken & Lila adorable little number HERE.

There were 26 entries in my recent giveaway HERE. Random.org chose Tonia from Racing with Babes. CONGRATS! Please email me your info and I will get you hooked up with your credit ... have fun choosing what you're going to get for your little darlings!

Noelle Orozco -- Run Like a Girl Pendant Giveaway

I was given the opportunity to review this absolutely adorable Run Like a Girl pendant from Noelle Orozco's Etsy shop HERE. It came in this adorable round tin, filled with confetti and this cute running business card attached, all in a sweet, drawstring sachet. WHAT GREAT PRESENTATION!!! No wonder Noelle has 100% positive feedback on Etsy!

This pendant is even better in person. It is bulkier than other necklaces I own, but wasn't annoying and didn't feel heavy. I loved that it's "different" from all of the other running jewelry out there. The glass tile is unique and I love that represents who I am. I am grateful for being given the opportunity to own such a cool piece around my neck!!

What I really like about her stuff:

- Her pieces have unique sayings and logos!
- Her pieces have unique in style, shape and size!
- Everything is SUPER AFFORDABLE .... purchase one for you and one for a gift!
- Shipping charges are SUPER REASONABLE, too!

Pendants need to be kept out of water. They are not waterproof. Production time is only 2-4 days not including weekends and holidays.

I love that she offers so many running and non-running pieces in her collection. SHE REPRESENTS EVERYONE ....... from 5K to Ultra-runners and Ironman Distance pendants.

She also offers great, unique gift pieces for everyone;
- Kindergarten Teacher

- Sports Moms

- Military Moms

- Musicians

- Dancers

- Nature lovers

- Even Pregnancy Announcements!

-Beautiful graphics and colors

Other pieces I adore from the Noelle Orozco Etsy Shop:
[ CLICK ON IMAGES TO SHOP!!!! ]

IRONMAN WIFE PENDANT

CUSTOM PHOTO PENDANT

I RUN LOCKET

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

Enter to win your very own Noelle Orozco RUN LIKE A GIRL PENDANT!!

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

2 - Visit the Noelle Orozco Etsy Shop HERE and tell me what else you like. LEAVE ME A COMMENT.

3 - Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

Enter now through Thursday, May 20.

Winner will be announced on Friday.

22 Miles D-O-N-E on Mother's Day ... Zensah Bra Review

Mother's day was supposed to start with the alarm going off at 6:00AM, but I reset the alarm about 2 hours before it was set to go off. Then I tossed and turned and ended up getting up shortly after 6:00 anyway. The sun was shining, but deceiving. It was only 38 degrees outside, there was frost on the rooftops and on the ground. Brrrr ..... I decided to wear my hot pink Recovery Socks instead of my regular running socks, so that my legs would stay warm. I debated whether I should switch to a long sleeve shirt or light jacket, but stuck with the original ensemble that I had laid out the night before. I fueled up with breakfast and dressed in my Nike shorts, short sleeve Sole Mates technical top, and new pink Zensah seamless running bra and headed out for 22 miles. Less than five minutes into my run, my fingers were numb and my upper body was freezing. I turned around in the deadend and headed back home. I changed into a long sleeve top and headed back out.

Temps Sunday morning .... very chilly start:

mile 1 - 38 degrees

mile 8 - 46 degrees

mile 20 - 54 degrees

The next 6 miles were very chilly and uncomfortable with the wind blowing in my face. I began to wonder how I would do if whether wasn't 100% ideal on race day in three weeks. I started doubting myself. I really hate the first hour of a long run. I doubt myself a lot, dread the long journey ahead of me, struggle with gear, look for a comfortable breathing pattern, etc. I isn't until after that first hour that I start feelin' good. And really enjoy what I'm doing, reminding me why I put myself through this torture over-and-over again.

Around mile 8 I ran past a bank that read 46 degrees. I downed a Gu vanilla bean gel. I was feeling warmer, heading out of my neighborhood on a new pedestrian path and into the sun. I was feeling great! I swear I must've had a smile on my face at this point.

I passed through four busy intersections, along the path. I'm new to getting out of my neighborhood and my comfort zone. I'm use to doing 2 or 3 big loops to equal the distance of 20 miles+. It is so much fun venuring to new areas of my city, discovering new paths, beautiful scenery, parks for the kids, new businesses and neighborhoods, seeing other runners venturing in or out of my neighborhood who I greet with a friendly wave. It's been really nice to pass the time with new scenery this season. I really don't enjoy running through the busy intersections and waiting for the stop light to change in my favor. I have been running in place, as I see it as me "cheating" if I stop. People seem to stare at me like I'm strange, but whatever. I downed a second and third gel at hours 2 and 3. I also chewed on Sports Beans over the entire run.

I passed the bank again around mile 20, as I headed home and it read 54 degrees. It was about 10:15 and I already had 20 miles under my belt -- woo hoo! I saw people heading out for Mother's Day brunch and I passed the diner in my neighborhood. I get famished on a long run, but never would call myself hungry. I was definitely hungry at this point and smelling pancakes and bacon were making me crave the cinnamon rolls that I was going to have with the kids when I arrived home!!!

22 mile after workout glow

I ran the entire 22 miles (minus my stop for a costume change 5 minutes in!) without stopping! I felt greatly confident upon my return home to the adorable little people waiting to greet me when I got home and shower me with handmade projects! I had a huge smile on my face when I opened the front door and my husband say, "WOW, and she's even smiling .... I never looked like that after a 22 mile run!".

I had 22 miles of peace-and-quiet Mother's Day morning!!! And, let me tell you ... it wasn't quiet after I returned home at 10:40 AM!

I was greeted at home with a ton of handmade cards, projects and dixie cup flowers. I also received a geranium in a pot handmade by my Little Diva and Little Dude. I also got a one-year membership to Team Sports Beans, which include all of these fabulous goodies!! I'm a Sports Beans fanatic, though I also fuel with several different brands of energy gel, chewables and such.

Then, I had my cinnamon rolls with the kids, showered, cleaned up the house, dropped Little Dude off at my in-laws and met up with my family and my other in-laws at Little Diva's dance recital #2 of the weekend, watched 2 1/2 hours of other kids dancing on stage, watched 2 minutes of my own child dancing, picked up Little Dude and got a pizza to-go and chowed down! I bathed the kids, put them in bed at 8:00 and I apologized to my husband that I was exhausted and went to bed at 8:30 PM!!!! I was out within 5 minutes.

And .........
About the Zensah Seamless Running Bra

As I mentioned earlier, I tried out the Zensah Seamless Running Bra for the first time on this long 22 mile run. I'm usually skeptical about trying anything new during a race or on a long training run. But, it was too cold to wear one of my technical tanks with a built-in bra and I needed to wear a bra under my technical shirt on Sunday. So, I decided to give the bra a try.

Zensah said that they have "developed the most comfortable running bra in the world". And, they may just be right! I loved it. Whenever I have run with other sports bras, I get chaffing underneath (even with using anti-chaffing sticks). I never had chaffing underneath, or anywhere else. Nothing irritated me, no itching, scratching, etc. The girls stayed in place the entire time and I never had to adjust it. With other running bras, I get gaps underneath or the bra shifts as I sweat and "soak through" a bra. I never had that problem the entire 22 miles and I came home without any chaffing or bleeding under my chest yesterday. It was great!!
Oh, if I could only look like this!

I usually wear a 36 C and took a Medium/Large and it fit PERFECTLY!
Size Chart:
S/M: 32ABC - 34AB
M/L: 34ABC - 36AB

The bra comes in black, pink, baby blue, green and white.

Visit Zensah online at: http://www.zensah.com/

Darn Tough Vermont Sock Winners ......

I recently reviewed Darn Tough Vermont Socks HERE. If your socks are worn-out or if you're looking for something new, check these out. They are awesome.

My hubby also had a great experience with them. Read a guy's review HERE.

You can visit Darn Tough Vermont online at: http://www.darntough.com/

There were 78 entries in my recent giveaway. Three lucky winners have snagged themselves a pair. Random.org has generated the lucky winners .......

Miss Zippy

Adam at I am Boring

Syl at Live, Smile, Run

Email me your mailing address to jamie dot edge at charter dot net. I'll get your socks in the mail. CONGRATS!

Thanks for following my journey!

Laken & Lila Dress Review & Giveaway

Little Diva received this adorable custom smocked halter dress from Laken & Lila. Isn't it sweet? Bright and spunky .... just like her personality!

Visit the Laken & Lila Etsy Shop HERE.

We paired this cute smock halter dress with a pair of leggings and a bright pink bow. She's all beautified and ready to put on a show! Can ya tell?!?!?!

I'm told that mom can also wear this is a halter top, but I have not been brave enough to bare my arms in this adorable number just yet. Maybe after I get some sun on my pale arms!!

Laken & Lila offers soooo many fun things, including CUSTOM ORDERS!

Some of my favorite reasons to shop with them:

- Items for girls and boys!

- Personalization/customization

- Amy Butler Fabrics

- Clothing is perfect for dress and play!

- 100% positive feedback!

- Great discounts and giveaways on their Facebook page!

Be sure to check out their adorable Mommy and Me Outfits HERE. I can totally see Little Diva and I rocking one of these matching ensembles at one of our mommy-and-me dates, heading to the mall, a movie and out for some ice cream. They are coordinated, stylish and age-appropriate!

There are so many cute items for girls and boys! I really love that they also offer adorable items for boys. It can be so hard to find adorable clothing for boys, that aren't super expensive and aren't the same thing everyone else is wearing? I can only shop at Gymboree and The Children's Place so much.

Some of my favorites pieces from the collection include:

Zebra Twirl Set HERE

Ahoy Matey for Boys HERE

Rockstar Outfit for Boys HERE

Hearts, Hearts and More Hearts HERE
Rockstar Collection HERE

Be sure to check out the Laken & Lila Facebook Page HERE. Fans receive free shipping on their first order and 20% off and free shipping on all orders after that (with coupon)!!

They are also currently doing a Mother's Day Giveaway of a Mommy & Me set (tunic for mom, skirt for daughter) on their Facebook Page HERE. Hurry, don't miss out!!!!!!

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

Enter for your chance to win at

$25 gift certificate

to the Laken & Lila Etsy Shop!

(open to US and Canadian followers only)

Please leave a comment for each entry!!

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

2 - "Like" Laken & Lila on Facebook. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 - Shop around the Laken & Lila Etsy Shop and tell me how you'll spend your gift certificate! LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

Enter now through Thursday, May 13th.
Winner will be announced on Friday.

Ryders Eyewear Sunglasses & Gu Chomps WINNERS .........

I recently had the opportunity to review a pair of fashionable and functional sunglasses from Ryders Eyewear and have been enjoying different flavors of Gu Chomps on my long training runs. You can read all about my experience HERE.

There were 181 entries in my recent Ryders Eyewear & Gu Chomps Giveaway HERE. TWO lucky winners were chosen by random.org to receive a pair of Ryders Eyewear sunglasses w/ case (valued at $39.99) and a pack of Gu Chomps.

Kyle at Getting Better and Better

Erica at Run Mommy Run

Email me at jamie dot edge at charter dot net with your mailing address and I'll get your goodies out to you!

If you didn't win, you still have a chance to win some Ryders Eyewear by participating in my virtual race HERE. Check it out!!! Everyone can participate; if you donate to Girls on the Run, you have a chance to win some awesome prizes!!!!

Wacky Weekend ... Happy Mother's Day to Me!!

Friday:

Garage Sale #2: We had a successful garage sale weekend last week. I made about $500 myself; our sale about $1,000 total. My leftovers are going to my mom's sale this weekend. Helping her out on Friday with Little Dude.

Pick up Little Diva from School

Run 6 mi on the TM with Little Dude and Little Diva keeping me company

R-E-L-A-X on the couch with the family .... something I haven't done in weeks (seriously!)

Saturday:

Run 3 mi

Little Diva's Dance Recital #1

Celebrate Mother's Day with my Mothers-in-Law

Sunday:

Mother's Day!

Wake up by 6:00 AM to go out for my last long run ... 22 miles (weather should be perfect on Sunday!)

Get home before 10:00 AM and make cinnamon rolls with Little Diva

Dance Recital #2 (Yes ... on Mother's Day ... my thoughts, exactly)

Celebrate Mother's Day with my mom

Monday

To top it off ... Monday is my day off of work and I sadly have to give up my morning with Little Dude, since I have to go in for a meeting. I will make the most of my afternoon!!

Run 3 mi

What are you doing

for Mother's Day??

Tall Mom on the Run 3 High Five Virtual 5K Results .... PR, BABY!!!!

Most of you know Mel (aka Tall Mom) HERE. She's hosted another wonderful virtual race today on 5/5 that benefits the Susan G Komen Marathon for a Cure. Mel just completed her second marathon this past weekend at the Eugene Marathon .... and rocked it with a BQ and surpassed her fundraising goals. Visit her donation page HERE.

She has asked those that entered to create their own race bib, with a chance for prizes. Since I don't have time for that tonight and am not in this for that prize, the only PRIZE I wanted was a 5K PR!!!!!!

I headed downstairs on the treadmill, because I wanted to be sure I PR'd with the exact distance. Little Dude and Little Diva were working on a Mother's Day project behind closed doors, so I decided to do a quick (yes, quick!) 5K downstairs, before putting them to bed.

As mentioned before, I usually start at 6.6 MPH (my strange starting pace). This time I started at 7.0 MPH. After mile 1, I increased my speed by .1 MPH ever 1/10 mile. At mile 2, I was up t 8.0 MPH. I never take "fuel" on a 5K run, but I wanted to ROCK this!! So, I downed a heavenly mint-chocolate Gu after mile 2. I continued to increase my speed bit-by-bit ... eventually up to 9.5 MPH. The ever-so-gradual increase in pace made me really focus on each 1/10 mile without getting too exhausted. I counted in my head from 10 down to 1 each time ... Hey, whatever works!!!??? Usually, I try increasing by .5 MPH and get too tired too quickly. But, not tonight ..... it worked!

3.1 miles D-O-N-E ...............

New 5K PR (race AND treadmill)

!!!!!!!!!!!! ............

24:20, baby!!! That's right!

Previous 5K PRs:
5 K Race- 24:46, GOTR 5K - 11/17/2009

5K Treadmill Run - 24:54 - 4/3/2010
(This marathon training is paying off!)

Tonight's after workout GLOW!!!!!!!!!!!!
(feelin' good ... inside and out)

Thank you for voting for Girls on the Run!

Thank you to all of you that took the time to vote, after reading my post HERE.

April was Community Banking Month, and the State Bank of Cross Plains was going to give $500 to two Dane County 501(c)(3) non-profit charities based on your votes. The two leading charities with the most votes would each be awarded $500.

The website HERE says that the State Bank of Cross Plains awarded prizes to the top two winners, Waunakee Community Band and ... Girls on the Run Dane County!!!

Thank you for voting and helping out my local chapter!!!

Darn Tough Vermont Socks Review & Giveaway

The folks at Darn Tough Vermont recently gave me the opportunity to review some of their run-bike socks.

Visit them online at: http://www.darntough.com/

I have been using strictly Under Armour socks since I started running in 2005. My socks have been worn right through to the point that they are see through. I have had about 10 pairs that I've rotated over that time and still have some of my original pairs! Can we say -- time for the garbage can?!

What I look for in a sock:

- My pet peeve with socks is that I don't like them to move, slide-down or rub. I hate nothing more than leaving for a run and my sock needs to be adjusted or my shoe needs to be tied. What a way to start off a run?!?

- I prefer low-cut socks, but not so low that they are "no-shows".

- I also prefer a little padding, but not bulkiness.

- I like my feet to be able to breathe a little bit and don't want them to get overheated or soaked.

So ... they sent me the Run-Bike 1/4 Sock + Cushion in Merino Wool to try out.

I wore these socks out on my "expected 5K loop" with Little Dude the other day. This is the run where I pushed him around in the cute pushable car! I felt so good, even after running a 13 mile training run the day before, and we went two extra miles in my new, spiffy socks!!

I wear a women's size 10 which puts me in the middle in between sizes. I was given both a size Medium and a size Large socks to try. I've tried both now and both seem to fit well. I do prefer the size Medium slightly, only because there is less bulk, as they are smaller. Their grid says I should probably wear a Large.

With other socks, I've been getting blisters on the outside of my big toes, from rubbing (obviously!). That's always my "hot spot". Blisters have been healing and then I'll get another one underneath the old one. It's been an icky process this Spring with my marathon training. With the Darn Tough Vermont socks, I felt no movement or rubbing and my feet actually feel much better and less sore than they were (after my runs). I don't know if this is from the socks or because my feet are getting use to all of the trauma I'm putting them through?! The packaging state that there is a zero-friction heel, that includes a deep heel pocket that eliminates blisters and hot spots. I also experienced the mid-foot support, no slipping and no bunching, as it mentions on the packaging.

I was a little curious about the merino wool fabric, wondering how they'd feel. I automatically thought of fuzzy animals and hot steamy feet!! But they were awesome and SUPER COMFY! They only use 100% fine guage Merino wool for highly breathable, itch free, next-to-skin comfort. Merino wool apparently naturally regulates temperature, keeping you cool when it's hot and warm when it's chilly. It's fast drying and naturally antimicrobial.

If you'd like to give them a try, they offer an unconditional lifetime guarantee! Return them for your money back!

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THREE LUCKY WINNERS

will have a chance to WIN A PAIR OF DARN TOUGH VERMONTH SOCKS!!!!

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

2 - Visit Darn Tough Vermont online and tell me what you're interested in. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 - Like Darn Tough Vermont Socks on Facebook. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

Enter now through Sunday, May 9th.

Winners will be announced on Monday.

Ryders Eyewear and Gu Chomps Product Review & Giveaway

On Sunday, I had a 10 mile run planned. Hubby did a 5K at Old World Wisconsin in the morning and we spent the next few hours walking around the grounds with the kids. Little Diva would've enjoyed it more if Little Dude didn't insist on walking and slowing us down and doing his own thing. I really would like to take her back.

We got home early-evening and after having a late lunch in Oconomowoc, I headed out after 5PM with the sun still high in the sky for my 10 miler. I was feeling great and decided I wanted to run 12 to boost my confidence. During the last mile, I decided to run a half marathon, just to say I did it, as the sun started to set and the breeze felt cooler. It was a beautiful evening for a long run. I really can't believe the marathon is at the end of the month. I still don't feel mentally prepared for some reason. It was great getting 3 extra miles in!!


During my run, I fueled with Gu Chomps in Orange. This was the third flavor I've tried an I love them. I'm usually a Sports Beans kind of girl, but these are a nice Change. I've tried Clif Shot Bloks. But, they always get stuck in my teeth and I always have an ooey-gooey smile when I'm done with my long runs (literally). The Gu chomps did not get stuck in my teeth and seemed a lot softer in texture and chewier. I downed 1-2 every 10-15 minutes after my first 30 minutes and I felt fueled during my entire 13 miles. They didn't get too sticky in the pocket of my shorts, though they did start sticking together by the end. But, they weren't messy at all. I love the Orange flavor the best but also like the Cranberry Apple.

LITTLE DUDE IN HIS SUNGLASSES
READY FOR A RUN!

This morning I had 3 miles planned and it was my day off. It was a GORGEOUS day today. I really hate the jogging stroller, but wanted to run outside with Little Dude. Last week I ran around our neighborhood with Little Dude in this car. It's light, easy to push and turn and I don't have to keep my arms up high, causing them to get tired. And, HE LOVES IT! So, I decided to see if I could do a 5K around the neighborhood with it.

PRE-RUN

OUR NEW VERSION OF THE "JOGGING STROLLER"

That car is loud when you push it (we turned quite a few heads this morning!). But it was so incredibly easy to maneuver -- I loved it!!! But, I felt so great that I ended up running 2 extra miles!!!! He just sat there "driving" until the last 1/2 mile, his head started bobbing, because he was falling asleep! Too precious.

MATCHING AFTER WORKOUT GLOW!
AND MATCHING SUNGLASSES!!

So, that's already 5 extra miles for the month!!!



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I don't usually wear sunglasses when I run because:

- I don't like to mess with any extra gear

- I don't like anything bouncing

- I fear that they'll mess with my depth perception

- I worry that they'll fog up



The folks at Ryders Eyewear sent me these cute sunglasses and I had the perfect matching Bondi Band and running outfit!!!

I wore them out on my run with Little Dude and they were great. I actually forgot I had them on! It was a beatiful sunny day here and the glasses were great at keeping the sun out of my eyes, since I don't usually have protection from the sun. They never ever bounced, which really, really surprised me. I thought I may be wearing them on top of my head before my workout was done. They never fogged up (and I'm a sweater!). The only minor thing I noticed was that when my nose got really sweaty by the end, I so some reflection on my lenses, I think. But, I didn't bother me. One thing that bothers me about sunglasses is that my depth perception gets all out of whack, and who wants to deal with that when they're running?! Not me! But, I never had a problem at all. It turned out to be an awesome run and I will think different about running with sunglasses now ... at least I know these will work for me ... and they're pretty cute!!

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TWO LUCK WINNERS WILL HAVE THE CHANCE TO WIN!!!!

Drill Sunglasses in Black with Case - $39.99 + Blueberry Pomegranate Gu Chomps

- or -

Hex Sunglasses in Black with Case - $39.99 + Cranberry Apple Gu Chomps

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

2 - Shop Ryders Eyewear and tell me what you have to have! LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 - Like Ryders Eyewear on Facebook. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 - Like Gu Energy Gel on Facebook. LEAVE ME A COMMENT.

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

Enter now through Thursday, May 6.
Winners will be announced on Friday.