My New Running Buddy

As I mentioned in my recent posts, Little Diva just learned to ride her bike. I could not be more thrilled. This child of mine would not even get on her bike a week ago (training wheels, or not). She had absolutely NO interest in getting in the saddle and giving it a try. She’s barely even rode her bike on the sidewalk with the training wheels over the past year.

I was more than excited last Thursday, when she decided to dust-off her two-wheeler and give it a try. The four of us headed to the dead-end in our neighborhood, because there is no traffic, the surface is flat, and she would have more room to weave. She had some trouble at first and the frustration set it. Finally, as I falsely boosted her self-confidence (making her think she was doing more than she actually was), she started smiling, became motivated and self-confident. It was amazing how that encouragement propelled her forward … literally.

Suddenly, she had momentum ... and balance ... and KNEW she could do it.

As each evening approached over the weekend, she would ask to try out her bike. We happily headed down to the dead-end to see how much she’d improved each and every day. But night #4, she no longer needed me to stand along side her.
I ran along side her for approximately two miles! We both thought this totally rocked.

Heading out again tonight
for another two miles together


On night #5 we did the same thing and only the mosquitoes sent us home! She’s actually helping me with my speed work, because the little stinker is overly-confident and I have to sprint just to keep up with her.

It’s amazing what a few small words of encouragement can do.



Who / What encourages you to keep going?
What makes you think you can
accomplish new goals you’ve set for yourself?

30 Running Items on my 30th Birthday Wish List

WOWSWERS … there are over 400 of you following my journey now! I hope to take a moment out of my day (sometime very soon) to check out all of your blogs and see what you’ve been up to. I have loved the beautiful weather lately and all of the time we’re spending outside. Maybe some gloomy, raining day, I will get up-to-date on the happening’s in bloggy-world … and my house will be clean again … in, say ... October!!! Until them, I’m enjoying all of the relaxing time outside … and the not-so-relaxing moments of chasing the kids around the neighborhood and at the pool ... and the VERY enjoyable time I've had this week, chasing my daughter on her bike while I fit in a run!

Thank you for your interest in my daily ramblings and for following my journey!!

I will be the big 3-0 in less than two weeks. Yikes …. Does that officially make me an adult now?!?!

Here are 30 fabulous running-related
items on my 30th birthday wish list ................

1) Bondi Bands – You KNEW it would make the top of the list!! (I Run Like a Girl, Marathon Mamma, Running Diva, Cheetah Cub, Cool Cat, Lady Leo, Jungle Party, Polly, Pretty Peacock, Zeblue … and just a few more!) (HERE)

2) Wife Mother, Runner, Necklace from The Silver Maple (HERE)

3) A new pair of Brooks Adrenaline (Size 10 -- Team Big Foot) (HERE)

4) Nike Tempo Running Shorts (especially yellow!) (HERE)

5) Zebra Print RUN Travel Mug from Lift Your Sole (HERE)

6) Running Goddess Tote Bag from Runolution Warehouse (HERE)

7) Running Skirts Compression Socks (HERE)

8) Time and City Charm Bracelet from Jessica’s Gifts (HERE)

9) Spirit of a Marathon on DVD (Saw this movie in the theater and signed up for my first marathon the next week!) (HERE)

10) I Run, Therefore I’m Nuts! by Bob Schwartz (HERE)

11) 26.2: Marathon Stories (HERE)

12) Bondi Band Gift Certificate (HERE)

13) iFitness Mini Sport Belt in Pink (HERE)

14) Girly Running Skirt from irunlikeagirl (HERE)

15) I Enjoy Running Top from Fire Daughter Clothing (HERE)

16) Wrist Road IDs in Purple and Yellow (HERE)

17) iTunes Gift Card (HERE)

18) Tranquilty Hoodie from Lucy (HERE)

19) I Dare You To Run Like a Girl Pink Poster from Caty’s Etsy Shop (HERE)

20) Running Girl Coffee Mug from Family Fan (HERE)

21) Marathon Challenge on DVD (HERE)

22) Short Sleeve Peformance Hoody (in pink) from irunlikeagirl (HERE)

23) Running Skirts Capri Skirt (Run Love Fleurs) (HERE)

24) Runner Girl Travel Mug (HERE)

25) Marathon Woman by Kathrine Switzer (HERE)

26) Running Skirt (Pink Dots) (HERE)

27) Starbucks Gift Cards (a girl needs caffeine to fuel her long runs, right?!) (HERE)

28) Body Glide for Her (HERE)

29) One Tough Mama Charm from Lift Your Sole (HERE)

30) Sole Sisters by Jennifer Lin (HERE)

Do you know of something that
should be on my birthday list??
Send me a link.

I Looooove finding new running goodies on the internet!

Weekend Recap - Huge Accomplishments

As the end of June is near, I really wanted to make sure I surpassed another 100 miles for this month. I'm a little down that my mileage is so low this month, but my marathon was less than one month ago. I also got on the scale this weekend (after being absent for awhile with my weigh ins) and I'm up seven friggin' pounds from marathon day. I have about 1/3 of the miles in this month and have been eating more JUNK than ever before. We're still trying to stretch our dollar to make ends meet and have been eating a lot of junk and I've been comforting myself with (baked) potato chips by the bagfull and ice cream. I'm also finding comfort in indulging in free treats (family gatherings, treat desk and leftovers at work, etc -- all things I usually avoid).

Despite how I may be feeling about my weight right now ... this weekend was AWESOME! The kids hit some great MILESTONES!!! The weekend was actually very relaxing and we really didn't have much planned. So, it was really great to focus on these goals and work together on seeing it happen.

• Little Diva FINALLY learned to ride her bike (age 6 1/2)
• Little Dude is doing VERY well with no diapers during the day; several days with no #1 accidents (age 2 1/2)
• Little Diva can go down the big kid slide at the pool

Friday

• Took the kids to pick strawberries ... sweet success!
• Enjoyed ice cream at our local creamery, Sassy Cow (HERE). They have great toy tractors (green and pink!) for them to play around on.
• Hit up a few garage sales for the little people for next season.
• Hit the dead-end in our neighborhood for night #2 without training wheels. Needed a bit less assistance.
• Watched "It's Complicated" and liked it.
• 4 miles with the kids on the treadmill
• Little Dude had NO #1 accidents and a few #2 accidents (second week of no diapers during the day)

Saturday

• Sitter arranged (free grandparent!) for all day date with the hubby
• Visited the local farmer's market and loaded up on squeaky cheese curds, snow peas, broccoli, baked goods
• Stopped somewhere new downtown for lunch, Brickhouse BBQ (atmosphere was nicer than expected; food was average; prices were higher than we expected for a "lunch menu").
• Window shopped and picked up some frozen yogurt at TCBY
• Stopped at the cheap seat theater and saw "Date Night". Laughed myself to tears at a few points.
• 5K on the treadmill with Little Dude
• Little Dude went on the potty every hour and pretty much only had #2 accidents
• Little Diva did MUCH better on her bike, though she is still having difficulty starting or stopping. Able to go up to a 1/2 mile without assistance.
• Watched "Athlete" (HERE). The movie was good as I related to some of it, but it was more about the athletes and their stories (per the name, I guess), rather than their journey. This was not at all in the same caliber as "Spirit of the Marathon" (HERE). It didn't give me the "chill factor" or bring me to tears like the SOTM did. SOTM is what motivated me to sign up for the Chicago marathon in 2008, because of the feelings and motivation it gave me. Athlete was also all over the place. The video footage was choppy and the interviews cut in and out constantly. It was hard to follow the stories or enjoy it. I did enjoy identifying with the athletes and understanding their 4:30 AM wake up calls on race morning and watching what the ate before they headed out the door before dawn and hearing the birds chirping during the quiet morning. But, I definitely won't be watching it again. Unless I get into some sort of a rut this Winter or something. It was on hubby's Amazon.com Wish List and I had bought it a few months back and stored it away for Father's Day.

Sunday

• 12 miles in the humidity and sun; a little sunburned!
• Little Dude pretty much went potty every hour and had a few accidents when I didn't hear the timer go off. My fault, not his. Still having #2 accidents.
• Not diggin "True Blood" as much this season.

Monday

• 5K on the treadmill with both kids
• Little Dude had 4 #2 accidents, no #1 accidents today!
• Picnic in the park with the kiddos
• Rewarded the kids with a trip to Target. She chose a basket, water bottle and kick stand for her ride (bike); he chose the Nick Jr assortment of little man underpants
• First visit to the local aquatic center. Little Diva could go down the big kid all by herself this year. She was all smiles! Little Dude fell asleep on my chest, under a blanket, while we cuddled in a lawn chair. Pure bliss!
• Dinner at my in laws (this has a become a very nice weekly event!)
• Little Diva did AWESOME on her bike! She ran with me on a little 2 mile jaunt around our neighborhood path. I'm sooo incredibly proud of her! And, I have a new buddy for my runs!!

What did you enjoy this weekend??

Drymax Socks Winner ......

I was recently given the opportunity to review Mini-Crew Running Lite-Meshfrom Socks from Drymax. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Drymax online HERE and start shopping.


There were 91 entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random.

Random.org chose ……..

Allana from Running 42km

Congratulations, Allana!!! 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]

Girls Sweat! ... and that's sweet! Book Review & Giveaway

Back in December, Little Diva, Little Dude and I had a chance to review Pellie Runs a Marathon and Coco Loves to Tri. Both children's books are written by the wonderful Michele Bredice Craemer. You can read about our experience HERE (I hope that you will check this out ... this was before I had an extensive following on my blog. The books are great1).



A couple of months ago, Michele contacted me again and alerted me that her new book, Girls Sweat! ... and that's sweet! would be released soon. I received my copy soon after.



You can check out Michele Bredice Craemer's website HERE.

I loved receiving my SIGNED copy ...
tied in a leopard print bow!

Girls Sweat! is great for women, mothers and their daughters. Through the book, a runner learns about mental toughness, strength and happiness through her heart and "soles".

Michele dedicates this book to "girls and women who dream, sweat and achieve".

The book has beautiful, simple messages throughout. The messages and quotes touch on girl power, balance, goal-setting, visualizing ... and so much more. The book has motivational pictures and a look at women running, training and achieving their goals.

As I read through the book, I was ready out on my next run ... even to my treadmill for six miles, in my dreary basement with the kiddos.

The next time you need motivation, I hope that you will turn to this book. You will definitely find motivation here.

Want your signed copy?!?!?!

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

One lucky winner will win ....
a SIGNED COPY OF GIRLS SWEAT!

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 Michele Bredic Craemer's website HERE and tell me what you learned about Michele or one of her books. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

Enter now though Thursday, July 1st.
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]

Drymax Socks Review & Giveaway

The folks at Drymax Socks (HERE) let me try out a two pairs of their Drymax Socks. I chose the Drymax Mini-Crew Running Lite-Mesh. Since I wear a size 10 running shoe, I was kind of on the border between sizes Medium and Large. I tried both and felt that the size Large fit me better. I definitely DO belong on Team Bigfoot now!! (Perhaps it's the bulging bunions?!)


Their socks come in FIVE DIFFERENT SIZES! Drymax has a True Fit sizing system on their website so that you are SURE to find the perfect match for you!


I prefer a thin sock and a "low cut" sock, but not too low. Call me picky?! I don't like them slipping down the moment I head out on my run and I don't like the sides of my shoes rubbing against my ankles. The mini-crew socks held up to picky ol' me! They never slipped or bunched during either of my 5K runs on the treadmill.

Drymax Socks are offered in soooo many styles. They have developed about 25 different styles to be sport and enironment specific.

Drymax guarantees that their socks will keep your feet drier and more comfortable than any other socks. If not, you can send them back with your receipt for a FULL REFUND! I definitely enjoyed my experience and will be keeping both pairs in my sock drawer. I have had the opportunity to try out several different brands lately and these fall into the same, highly-ranked category.

The Running Lite-Mesh socks were designed with a special dual layer moisture removal system that moves moisture away from the skin through the innter Drymax layer to the outer absorbent layer almost instantly. I'm not going to just rave about everything I try out, but my feet were feeling really good, and dry, after my 3 miles on the treadmill. Usually after a run, I have to toss off a soaking wet sock into the laundry basket. Not this time. They were actually pretty dry. I can't wait to see how these things hold up during a long run.

And, Drymax Socks are MADE IN THE USA!

Last night's After Workout Glow
(although my tootsies were feeling dry

thanks to Drymax!)

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

One lucky winner will win a pair of Drymax Mini Crew Running Lite-Mesh (M) Socks!!

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 Drymax website HERE and tell me something you learned. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

Enter now though Sunday, June 27th.
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]

Three Things Thurday

The weekend is right around the corner ... yeah ... it's time for Three Things Thursday!!

1 - Hubby and have a date scheduled for Saturday for most of the day. Usually, we can sneak in a date night once a month or every other month, while the grandparents entertain the kiddos for a few hours. This time, I've arranged NINE HOURS of couple time. We really need this right now. Stress has been high for many reasons. We need some time together. And, some time to do some things stress-free without the kids. I'm hoping that the weather cooperates as I have just a few items on my to do list and most of them involve being outside. I also failed to mention that these are also AFFORDABLE forms of entertainment, as hubby has to wait an entire month to get paid by his new employer (yikes!):

• Visit the local farmer's market and load up on berries and fresh veggies
• See a crappy movie at the cheap seats (can't beat a movie for less that $3!)
• Get in a longish run together and explore somewhere NEW!
• Use a coupon and eat out at a restaurant (something we haven't done together in months)
• Run some errands stress-free without people whining about when we are going to leave or tearing things off the shelves

2 - A few months back, I enjoyed reading and reviewing Run Like a Mother by Dimity McDowell and Sarah Bowen Shea. If you haven't ready it .... you need to. I.AM.NOT.A.READER .... and I loved this book to pieces! I totally identified with it. It seriously made me laugh out loud!

I was so excited to be contacted by Sarah (SBS) again last week to see if I wanted to be featured this week in their weekly installment of "Follow This Mother". Why, of course?!?!?! You can read all about my interview and all of my Bondi Bands (HERE).



3 - Earlier this week, I was happy to be greeted by another exciting email. One of my favorite blogging mommies, Stephanie from Girls Just Wanna Go Run (HERE) emailed me to let me know that I won her 3Gemz giveaway! I can't wait to see this beautiful running necklace! Thanks, Stephanie .... you're a gem! ... pun intended. You know I love your blog to pieces!!

Midwest Bloggers Meet-up (Aug 20th)

I mentioned a couple of weeks ago that I would be hosting a Midwest Bloggers Meet-up for anyone participating in the 2nd Annual Madison Mini Marathon on Saturday, August 21st.

This half marathon was AWESOME last year and totally exceeded my expectations. Even if you aren't participating in the race, it would be great to meet so many of you that live in the Midwest area. Madison is a GREAT place to visit .... especially in the summertime! Saturday morning will also be the Dane County Famer's Market on the Capitol Square.

Several of you have already commented or emailed me and said that you are interested in participating in this bloggy event.

You've seen my giveaways ... and there will be goodybags and prizes for EVERYONE!

When: Dinner on Friday, August 20th, 6:00 PM

Where: Restaurant in Downtown Madison, WI TBD

Please email me / comment if you are interested in joining us! I hope that you will!!
(sponsors are asking for a guest count)

Salt Stick Electrolyte Capsules Winner ....

I was recently given the opportunity to review Electrolyte Capsules from Salt Stick. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Salt Stick online HERE and start shopping.

There were 75 entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random.

Random.org chose #5 ……..

Christine from Sticky Finger Prints (HERE)

Congratulations, Christine!!! 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]

Fun or Run?! There's always tomorrow.

I had eight miles on my schedule for sometime this weekend ... and it didn't happened. Life ... and fun ... got in the way. And, you know what?! I'm not upset about it.

Little Diva Sister was dropped off at our house on Friday morning. My parents are in Las Vegas for a long weekend and she is staying with us while they are having some much needed adult-time. She is seventeen yrs old and thirteen years younger than me and my (other) mini me. We headed out of town Friday afternoon for the High Cliff Triathlon expo, where hubby would be racing in the Half Iron Distance Triathlon on Saturday. We picked up his packet and went to or resort to check in. We had the best "kids suite". The kiddos had their own bedroom, complete with a race car bed and bunk beds. The kids loved having their own space. We also enjoyed the small water park that they had at the hotel.

"Kids Suite" in our hotel room

Little Dude and Little Diva
Enjoying the Hotel's mini-Waterpark

We got up at 4:30 AM for the 7:00 AM race on Saturday. The kids were groggy, but accepted it and know that there is usually a fun park as our final destination! My teenage sister is not use to getting up before 10:00 on the weekends, but was up applying her makeup before our alarm went off! We had a few other friends racing, so there were plenty of friends (and other kids to play with!) to keep us company during the long wait at the park. Hubby was happy with his swim and run, but not happy with his performance on the bike. He still finished within his goal of going sub-6 hours.

Hubby completed his Half Iron-Distance Tri
in sub-6 hours
YES ... That's a BONDI BAND!!!!

We got back to the resort and the kids and hubby vegged out in the hotel room. Little Diva Sister and I went to the hotel gym for a quick thirty minute workout. It felt really good to mix things up a bit and work out in different surroundings and to work out with my sister while watching trashy reality tv. We enjoyed the water park some more and chilled out in the hotel room.

No nap for us ...
We hit the hotel gym

Sisterly after workout glow

We were going to workout again on Sunday, but I got lazy. We enjoyed the hot continental breakfast, packed up and headed home. I unpacked and did laundry. Hubby wanted to see Toy Story 3. Knowing that Little Dude wouldn't last long at the movie, he ended up taking Little Diva. I took Little Diva Sister and Little Dude out for lunch and to the mall. We headed home for some water time in the sprinkler, grilled out and roasted smores over our firepit.

I KNOW that I could have fit in a another run again this weekend. But, I didn't. And, I really didn't want to. So, I'm not beating myself up about it. There is always tomorrow ... and the next day ... and the day after that. I enjoyed myself, my time with my family and I enjoyed not running for the day. Marathon training will be kicking off next weekend and I will have PLENTY of time out on the road.

I still am on target for another 100+ mile month. Not to shabby. I am totally reaching my 1,400 mileage goal for 2010.

How are you doing with your mileage goals this year?

Three Things Thursday

The weekend is right around the corner ... yeah! It's time for Three Things Thursday!!

1 - I looked online and there are 107 days until my next marathon. I will be running my next 26.2 mile journey at Lakefront Marathon in Milwaukee with hubby (his second marathon). I have looked at my training program and wrote my long runs on my calendar. We have the grandparents lined up to watch the kids next weekend for most of Saturday, so I hope that we can get a nice, long run in together and start our training.

2 - This is embarrassing to admit ... but does anyone else have bunions? (Cute, huh?!?) It's the combination of wearing stylish, pointy high-heels and my running that have brought me to the nasty bumps on the sides of my feet. When I went to the sports medicine doctor two years ago, they said that they will eventually need to be fixed surgically, when I've had enough. I've ignored it. And, my feet are sore all the time because of it. I'm wondering if anyone else has had them surgically removed or just dealt with them in their ugliness?? How long were you off of your feet?? I refuse to give up my patent leather heels or my running.

3 - This weekend, hubby will be competing in a half iron distance triathlon at the High Cliff Triathlon. This should be a fun weekend as we have several friends competing as well, who will be traveling with their families. The forecast looks great and I look forward to playing at the State Park with the kids and soaking up some sun on the beach. Our hotel also has a pretty decent water park. My teenage sister will also be traveling with us and I look forward to working out with her at the hotel gym! I can't think of a better way to bond! Let's hope the hotel treadmill isn't a P.O.C.!

Salt Stick Caps Product Review & Giveaway

I recently had the opportunity to review Salt Stick Caps. You can visit Salt Stick online HERE.

These capsules help with heat stress, muscle cramping, and low electrolyte levels. Who couldn't use these with summertime heat in full force right now?!?! I only took one during a mid-70's (comfortable) twelve-mile training run. I took one at the one hour mark, which was half way through my run. I wasn't sure what to expect from these capsules, but they were easy to down and just like taking a vitamin or ibuprofen. It would've been really easy if I had my handheld water bottle with me, but I didn't. I stopped at the park's drinking fountain to help me down the capsule. It gave me a bit of a boost 1/2 mile later, when I was feeling in a slump.

I am a heavy sweater and am very salty after my long runs. I really believe I could've used these during my marathon training runs and during my HOT marathon last month.

Directions: Use as a ditary supplement, take one capsule with water every 30-60 mins, during physicla activity, for up to ten capsules daily.

I kept my capsule in my shorts pocket, along with my Sports Beans. I see that they also offer a handy-dandy capsule dispenser on their website HERE. I think this would be really handy.

I will definitely be trying these out more this summer, in the heat, and in my training for marathon #3.

What Salt Stick Says -- KEY FEATURES:

The ONLY electrolyte capsule that was formulated to closely resemble the electrolyte profile lost during activity: sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium.

Only 1 capsule per serving. Suggested use: 1 capsule per 30-60 minutes during activity

Buffered salt composition that helps digestion and absorption

Each capsule contains: 215 mg sodium, 63 mg potassium, 22 mg calcium, 11 mg magnesium, 100 IU Vitamin D

Vegetable-based capsule composition; Bio-available active ingredients. GMP production

Contains only WHAT YOU NEED. No: herbal, trace, questionable components added. Gluten free. No sweeteners- no high fructose corn syrup, no sweeteners of any kind

Does not contain any World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) or International Olympic Committee (IOC) banned substances

Unique formulation is patent pending; Engineered by a Ph.D. chemist who is also a pro triathlete
Saltstick® Caps uniquely includes vitamin D that helps the body absorb and utilize calcium.




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

One lucky winner will win a container of 30 vegetarian Salt Stick Capsules.

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 Salt Sticks 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 Sunday, June 20th.

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]

School's Out for Summer ... Treadmill Time

Well, the last day of kindergarten was last Friday and today was my first day off of work with both kids in quite awhile. School is out for Summer and they both have been pushing every single button I own today.

Last month I mentioned that hubby lost his job and four weeks later, he started in a new position today! I am relieved. He’s excited. But, I’m also still anxious how the paycut is going to work out. Now he will have a commute similar to mine, versus working just five minutes from home and daycare. I can no longer call him in a pinch, when I'm stuck in downtown traffic and have him pick up the kids from daycare. I’m not sure how it’s going to work out. But it’s something that makes him happy. So, that should make me happy, too. Change (especially in our routine) is very difficult to me. But this is a good change … and I should embrace it.

So, it was just me, Little Diva and Little Dude cooped up in the house today. Everyone wanted to play outside, but it is yucky, drizzly and blah out there today. It was treadmill time.


They built forts in the basement while I ran four miles on the treadmill. I ran a steady pace at 6.6 MPH. We all watched Cartoon Network, which is the least of my favorite kids’ channels. But, it made them both happy.

After I ran my four miles, I noticed that the kids thought the gym flooring is a “puzzle” and started disassembling it. Oh well.

I drank some water and decided to run one fast mile and see what I could do. I started out at 8.0 MPH and cranked it up after the first half mile. I finished my fifth mile at 7:23. I really hope to do this more this summer, as I run on the treadmill and see how I can better my time.

Today's after workout glow

(four steady miles + one speedy mile)

Thorlos Socks Winner ........

I was recently given the opportunity to review Experia (Cool Max - Thin Cushion) Socks from Thorlos. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Thorlos online HERE and start shopping.


There were 110 entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random.

Random.org chose …….. Megan from Little Daily Escape (HERE)

Congratulations, Megan!!! Please email me at jamie dot edge at charter dot net with your name, email and mailing address. And, I will get you hooked up with Thorlos! 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]

Long Run Mind Games

It has been almost two weeks since my marathon and my longest run has been six miles. I decided I wanted to get a longish run in this weekend and hoped to log a twelve miler. Hubby headed out for nine miles this morning. Forecast calls for rain this afternoon. I decided that I should try and head out as soon as he returned. When I headed out the door, I decided that I was just going to do nine miles and started my stop watch. Just me and a bag of Sports Beans.

Around mile three I was already feeling famished and weak. What the heck was my problem?! I just ran 26 miles two weeks ago?! I took a few Sports Beans and figured I'd at least try to get six miles in. I got to mile six and decided I would do another three and finish at nine. When I got to nine, I decided to head home and finish out at ten. As I headed home (about 1/4 mile from home) I realized that I still had something in me and headed back out for two more miles. I ended up doing all twelve miles that I initially had on my agenda. I felt accomplished and happy that I did. I don't think I would've been too happy if I would've cut the run short.

What the heck is it with the mind games we play with ourselves during long runs?!

Today's after work-out glow

Running Skirts, Clothes & Hats up for grabs!

I am cleaning out my three drawers of running apparel and posting things on eBay. If anyone is interested, you can get a lot of NEW or GENTLY USED running apparel (including running skirts!) for a good price!

All auctions are starting at $0.99!!

Lots more will be posted over the next week or so.

DIVA Lot of Running Skirts & Dresses TRIKS SKIRT SPORTS (HERE)

2 NEW BEBE SPORT Running Exercise Tanks - gold sequins (HERE)

9 Women's Nike Reebok Adidas Running Hats Visor Dri-Fit (HERE)

700 miles down ..... Half-Way There!!!

Well, today Little Dude and I set out on our journey around 9AM and went six miles ... me on foot ... him in his little car. I love how he sits there and relaxes, giving me occassional glances and smirks, then zones out. He sits there with a blank stare on his face and doesn't say a word. Sometimes his head bobs and he puts his hands over the steering wheel and falls asleep in the most uncomfortable positions. Other people out on our route walk past or drive past and laugh or point because he looks so content sitting there. This is the child that everyone remarks, "He really keeps you busy, doesn't he?!?!?". But, while we run, he just chills and enjoys the ride.

Our six miles this morning helped me cross 700 miles for the year and has brought me half-way on my journey to 1,400 miles by December 31, 2010. I know that I can do this now.

700 miles down ... 700 to go ...

Family Fan Club T-Shirt Winner .......

I was recently given the opportunity to review a few adorable t-shirts from Family Fan Club. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Family Fan Club online HERE and start shopping.

There were 97 entries in my recent giveaway for a t-shirt of their choice (under $25). One winner was chose at random.

Random.org chose ……..

Orange Blossom (HERE)

Congratulations, Orange Blossom!!! 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 (bloggers meet-up)

1 - I'm running in the 2nd Annual Madison Mini Marathon (HERE) on Saturday, August 21st in downtown Madison, Wisconsin. Last year's innaugural event was AWESOME and scenic and sold out! The crowd support for our mid-size college town was great, too. If you are already committed to the half marathon or are interested in signing up, please let me know.


I am planning a bloggers meet-up for dinner on Friday night (August 20th) and am working with several sponsors. We will have goody bags and prizes! Please spread the word on your blog!!


Even if you aren't racing and want to participate in the dinner, please let me know, so that I can get a head count for donations.


2 - If you haven't already done so, don't forget to enter my Thorlos Socks giveaway! Remember to let me know your shoe size and style preference! And, thank you ... through this giveaway, I've realized that I'm not the only BIG FOOT! I wear a size 10 running shoe and feel like I'm the only one with such huge feet! There are SEVERAL of you that have posted that you, too, wear a size 10 or 11. GO TEAM BIG FOOT!

Also, to prevent the toe blisters and toenail problems, many have suggested going up a half-size in my running shoes. But, do many running shoes come in sizes larger than 10's?!? I'm not sure it's worth the huge investment, if I'm not sure how well a larger shoe will work for me?!?


3 - I have a couple of funny shirts and a cute mug from One More Mile HERE. I love their clever sayings and unique running-related items. They make me laugh!! My favorite saying right now is, "I'm only doing this so I can post a picture on Facebook!". I'm sure you've seen them at all of the conventions. Check out their website. One More Mile is offering my subscribers 15% off your online purchase; just enter the code RUC1326 at checkout. Happy Shopping!!

Madison Marathon Reflection

Just over a week out from having marathon #2 under my belt, I'm feeling great and am happily back at running. I hope to get a longish run this weekend.

Since the course "closed" due to extreme weather conditions, the results are posted as "unofficial". I thought my watch said 4:27, and I love it when the chip time is in my favor!!! ....

Chip Time 4:26:56 (PR by 11 mins)

Overall: 683 / 1,369 finishers (approx 1,900 registered?!)

Female Finishers: 192 / 477

Age Group (25-29 F): 54 / 122

From my race results ... I'm definitely a middle-of-the-packer!!!!!!

I have been anxiously awaiting my race photos to be posted and was happy when they arrived in my inbox last night!! I really did enjoy myself for the first 15 miles and tried to show my excitement by smiling for the photographers. As the journey goes on ... you can see my struggle with the hills and the heat.

Madison Marathon Reflections:

- My Go-Lite Hydroclutch (handheld water bottle) was an absolute blessing. I used that thing to grab my Gu packets and stuff new ones in it along the way. I kept refilling it with Gatorade and Ice (which melted immediately). It honestly didn't bother me carrying it for the entire 26.2 miles. It was awesome, awesome, awesome!

- Walking through water stations. I never walk during races and the only other time I did this was during marathon #1, towards the end. I realized that it's ok to walk. Even though I felt like a "failure" at first, the little break at the last 5-6 water stations really helped me keep on and gave my legs the rest they needed. I knew that the water stations were spaced approximately every 1.5 miles and new if I could just get to the next water station, that I could walk.

- Playing games with myself. Just like trying to make it to the next water station, when I was really struggling, I would try to make it to the next tree, port-o-pottie or fire hydrant. By the time I got there, I realized I could push a little farther and would set a new destination. I also would count backwards from 50 to 1 in sets of four ... 50-50-50-50; 49-49-49-49. Before I knew it -- close to a mile had passed.

- Can't Stomach it .... don't eat it. I love Sports Beans and Gu, but at some point the Sports Beans in my pocket were tasting way to sweet and I couldn't stomach them. Instead I would suck on a Gu Packet or sip a little Gatorade, instead of my plan of chomping on Sports Beans every 30 mins. This helped prevent me from vomiting and feeling nauseous the entire race. I also took one bite of a banana and realized that I just couldn't do it and tossed it along side the road. I grabbed an orange later which sounded yummy and it ended up giving me a boost. My body obviously knew what it was craving.

- Thumbs up, Dude! I've realized this before, but my race photos confirm it. I seem to always run with my thumbs up. Not sure why.

- Toenails are over-rated. I was much less sore post-race this time and it only took me 3 days to be able to walk down stairs comfortably. But, just lake marathon #1, my toes and my toenails are driving me crazy! I get blood blisters under my two longest toes' toenails and all of the tips of my are sore for months! Last time I only ended up losing one toenail. Luckily, it is flip-flop weather and I can deal with the pain that way. The rest of me is ready to get back into running, but my toes are driving me crazy after 3 miles on the road. I'd love to get a pedicure for the Summer, but the tips of my toes seriously hurt to-the-touch.

How do you deal with
sore piggies and

keep your toenails?!?

Thorlos Socks Product Review & Giveaway

I recently had the wonderful opportunity to review two pairs of socks from Thorlos.

Visit Thorlos online at http://www.thorlo.com/

I really liked the XCCU Experia Cool Max - Thin Cushion - Micro Mini HERE (in pink, of course!). These thin cushion socks were awesome. These are designed for endurance athletes that don't like bulky socks and prefer a thin cushion and minimal foot protection. They are NOT designed for athletes with any distracting foot issues. They claim protection without weight and an aero-dynamic fit. I would definitely agree with the protection in ball of the foot and at the heel. The achilles pad is made of a durable nylon, as this is where most people tend to wear their socks out (I experience this too!). The coolmax is used in the cushion, for enhanced moisture management.

"Sample" / Testing Pair
(a.k.a one-of-a-kind)

The Experia line was just launched in February. Be one of the first endurance athletes to try them out! Thorlo also offers several other items with more cushioning, should you prefer more.


I wear a size 10 shoe and wore the US (W) 9.5-11.5 comfortably.


I've worn the Experia Socks 4 times now and a sample (one-of-a-kind!) pair once. I really enjoyed my experience with these socks and the other sample pair I tried out. I really like the variety of color and styles they offer. A girl can find a pair to match every cute running outfit she owns! At $13.99, I wouldn't have personally made the investment (because I'm cheap ... and on a strict budget currently). But, my experience trying them out has been awesome.


Thorlo suggests that you wash them inside out with a liquid fabric softener in the wash, never bleach them and the put them in the dryer on a medium setting. They claim that they will last for years. Mine (including the sample pair) have been holding up very well in the few times I've washed them (but with a fabric softener sheet).

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

One lucky winner will win

ONE PAIR OF THORLOS SOCKS ...

size/fit/style .... just for you!!!

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 Thorlos website HERE and tell me WHAT you want and your SHOE SIZE. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 – Become a fan of Thorlos 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, June 13.
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]

Keeping Motivated; Post-Marathon

After marathon #1 (Chicago - October 2008), I got a bit of the post-race blues. I didnt' have a training schedule, the cold weather set-in and the holidays were right around the corner. I took almost a month off and it wasn't until I set New Year's Resolutions for 2009 that I really kicked my butt into gear on the treadmill.

After marathon #2 I have a bit more on my side. The weather. With doing a Spring marathon I have the whole summer in front of me, beautiful weather and more daylight on my hands.
I have taken the past week to reflect and relish in the moment. I took four days off of running. I usually take 1-2 rest days every week and it's been a nice break -- but, I've been ready to tie up my Brooks. I also indulged WAY too much this week and consumed way too much birthday cake at parties to remember. I feel chunky and out-of-shape just one week post-marathon.

Friday I ran a 5K on the treadmill and felt great. I did the same on Saturday. Hubby had a sprint triathlon this morning and the whole family was up at 4:30 AM. After we got home, he worked out again and I knew I wanted to get an hour run in the afternoon. I was ready to hit the road!!!
I am soooo over running through my neighborhood! With a few more long runs under my belt, I've been able to explore some new areas of town, parks and pedestrian paths. I decided to head to the other side of town in the marathon mommy minivan and park it at one of the parks. Over the next hour, I ran from park to park .... along the pedestrian path .... over all of the awesome bridges along the way.

I took my camera with me and captured some photos of a new favorite route of mine. I even saw five pre-teen girls along the way. They must've been returning home from one of the parks. Two of them had bright yellow Girls on the Run t-shirts on. They stared at me and I said "I love your Girls on the Run Shirts -- that's awesome!". They lit up and said "Thank you", with HUGE SMILES on their faces!

To keep myself motivated until my next big races (which aren't until the end of July, August and October), I need to keep myself interested in running and keeping the mileage up. I hope that these little "destination" training runs will help keep me going.

Today's after work-out glow

What keeps you motivated

when you're not "training"?

What do you do when you're

stuck-in-a-rut?!