Still be sisters. Finally be friends.

I'm a little behind at posting this, but couldn't resist sharing. Last month, Little Diva Sister turned 18 and graduated from high school. It was a big month for her. A month of milestones, a month of fun, a month of changes.

To honor her accomplishments, my parents threw her the CUTEST graduation party ever! It was too FAB not to share here. See, Little Diva Sister is as in love with animal prints and pink just as much as her big sister. So, instead of having a graduation party with her school colors, the whole garage and driveway were decorated with zebra print and hot pink. It was totally fun, and totally her!

YUM .... Cupcakes!!!

Zebra Print Cake

Even though we are thirteen years apart (my only sibling), we've still struggled at times to get along. Maybe it's because the age gap caused me not to know my role. Be a second mother, or be a friend?!?! But, as we both grow older, we grow closer. I feel like we've bonded through all of my life changes the last eight months, and her milestones the past few months as well. Part of me wants to parent her, as seeing her grow up prepared me for motherhood in my early-20's. Part of me wants to guide her, as I've acknowledged some mistakes I've made during my journey. But, I want her to find her own path in life and I know that I did learn a lot from mistakes I made along the way. And, I'm glad that I've learned from these experiences. It definitely makes me appreciate the things I did right and the positive experiences I've had in life.

I'm hoping that as we both venture into this next chapter in BOTH of our lives, that we can just be friends and learn and grow together. Maybe learn from eachother's mistakes. Experience some new things together. Still be sisters. Finally be friends.

I hope your dreams take you to the corners
of your smiles, to the highest of your hopes,
to the windows of your opportunities, and to
the most special places your heart has ever known.
~Author Unknown

I Love you, my Mini-Me!!!!
XOXO - BIG SISTER

Madison Mini Marathon Entry Winner ...

I've been lucky enough to participate in the Madison Mini Marathon (HERE) during the past two years! And, I will be participating again this year on August 20 in Madison, Wisconsin!!

One lucky winner has been given the chance to join me!!! ................

(I'm looking forward to a meet-up on race day!!)

There were 43 entries in my recent drawing for a FREE entry, and the winner is .....

Destination Athlete (HERE)

Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com )
to claim your FREE entry!!!

Happy Baby Organic Baby Food Product Review & Giveaway

Little Dude was recently sent an assortment of products from Happy Baby (HERE). At 3-and-a-half, he's hardly a BABY (as he'll let you know!), but he's still a little guy none the less and loves little bite-size snacks and treats he steals from the cupboard. I love that Happy Baby offers organic, healthy, tasty treats for the Little Dude. Their products are also available in fun shapes and great finger foods -- to help keep the kiddos interested in snacking healthily. Instead of reaching for fruit snacks or or 100 calorie packs of cookies, it's nice that there are healthy, easy to reach for alternatives out there.

About Happy Baby: Premium organic meals for your family

A few short years ago, HAPPYBABY was the first premium baby brand to enter the market in 5 small stores in New York City—at a time when there were no homestyle options for parents to feed their children. Processed foods or homemade baby food—which can be time consuming for busy families—were the only options. A lot has changed, and we are now the leading premium brand of baby and toddler meals in the U.S.—sold in over 10,000 stores with 5 different lines of optimally delicious organic foods for your growing family.

We attribute our success to our dedication to only creating the very best products, our commitment to always doing what is right as a business, our amazing team of brilliant colleagues and advisors—and to you. You are the parents that demand that your children get foods that truly nourish their bodies and support their growth as healthy happy individuals for the years to come.

Try all of the Happy Baby Organic Baby Food Products:

HAPPYBaby Frozen Meals (HERE)
HappyBellies Cereals (HERE)
Happy Pounches (HERE)
HappyMelts (HERE)
HappyPuffs (HERE)
HappyMunchies (HERE)
HappyBites (HERE)

HAPPYMELTS (HERE) are a truly delicious and nutritious treat made with the goodness of organic yogurt and fruit. This yummy snack offers protein, low-sugar, and the added boost of pre and probiotics for digestive wellness. Banana-Mango, Mixed Berry, or Strawberry. The only organic freeze dried yogurt snack on the market for babies and toddlers. And it's the only baby food with prebiotics and probiotics!

Little Dude loved the Strawberry HappyMelts. He loves yogurt as much as his mama, so these bite size versions of his favorite yogurt flavor were a huge hit. He liked how they "melted" in his mouth, too. YUM! The pouches are also so lightweight and portable. Easy enough to toss in a diaper bag or even in your purse.

HAPPYPUFFS (HERE) The very first melt in your mouth organic finger foods. These teach baby tactility and self-feeding and might buy you some much needed silence! Made with whole grains, HAPPYBABY PUFFS come in three organic flavors to give baby variety and build growing palettes. Apple, Banana, Greens, Strawberry, Sweet Potato

Little Dude enjoyed his "Banana Cereal" and Little Diva even gave it a try and enjoyed it. LD enjoyed snacking on them one-by-one. These would be great finger foods for snacks or for breakfast with milk. They came in an easy-pour container, too!


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

One lucky winner will win a
Happy Baby Prize Pack
(US/Canada 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 Happy Baby website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

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

Enter now though Thursday, August 4.
Winner will be announced on Friday.

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

Power Capes Product Review & Giveaway

Last winter, I came across Power Capes (HERE) through another mommy blog. My kids love dressing up. Little Dude even loves putting on Little Diva's princess ensembles! I've slowly collected costumes for him at garage sales, but there will always be more options out there for little girls to play pretend. Power Capes were super appropriate for the Little Dude to take on his own super hero persona and they would grow along with him as he gets older.


We were also able to customize it with his favorite colors and initial. We worked together to make him his own cape and matching mask online. Little Dude was able to choose everyting right along side me. And when it arrived in the mail, he was super excited to see his creation in real life!! The enthusiasm continued as he paraded around our home and took on his new persona as a super hero!!

Little Dude's "self photo"
as a Super Hero

PowerCapes is a team of Moms, Dads, Customer Service Heroes, Web Ninjas and Passionate People who have dedicated their lives to helping kids be real super heroes. Started by Holly Bartman as a way to provide children with personalized super hero capes, PowerCapes has become the #1 destination for authentic super hero wear for kids (and adults, too!). Even Tori Spelling and her kids are sporting them!!

Custom Superhero capes make great gifts. These capes are customized so you can be a REAL superhero! Personalize capes with your own initial or make a custom cape based on your favorite superhero. Either way you are bound to have tons of fun with your customized cape. Power Capes has a wide selection of colors for you to choose from, so sure you'll come up with the perfect custom cape that we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Power Capes are made in the USA and made well at that. They even stand up to the Little Dude constantly taking it on and off himself (no easy task!). I love how the cape will grow with him, too. Power Capes also offers custom masks, cuffs and t-shirts.

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

One lucky winner will win
a PowerCape
of their choice
(US/Canada 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 Power Capes website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

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

Enter now though Thursday, August 4.
Winner will be announced on Friday.

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

SnorgTees Product Review & Giveaway

Last year, I reviewed (HERE) a cute t-shirt from SnorgTees (HERE). Recently, I was sent another t-shirt from them that says "Someone is reading my shirt". They have the best sayings that make me laugh out loud!! Apparently, everyone else thinks they are pretty funny, too. Because, they have quite the following online!!

About SnorgTees:

SnorgTees got its start back in May 2004 when our group of friends decided that we weren't meant for a real job. We got our options narrowed down to international jewel thieves or internet t-shirt tycoons. Since it was the middle of the summer, we weren't able to find enough ski masks, which left t-shirts as our only option. Fast forward a few years and we've grown to the point where people mistake us for an actual business. We've even shipped a shirt to NASA. That means space. So technically we're a universal company. But we are still just a group of friends who run Snorg because we enjoy it.

Here at Snorg, we specialize in pop-culture inspired, random, and all around funny t-shirt designs. Most of the designs on our site are SnorgTees employee creations. But while we think of about 72% of what goes up on the site, 28% of the awesome design ideas come from you, our customers. So if you think you've got a great idea, send it our way.

We strive for constant improvements, and it's thanks to you that we're where we are today. So go out there and spread the good word about SnorgTees to everyone you know. Stop strangers in the street and tell them where they can replace that ugly piece of cloth they call a shirt with a genuine Snorg Tee. And don't forget to send in pictures of you showing off your SnorgTees around town. Remember, when you're wearing Snorg, all your pictures look good.

Both of the shirts I've tried out are size medium (my usual size) and fit slightly snug. If you like a longer length tee, you may want to go up a size, since my newest one shrunk a bit in the wash.

Need to laugh today? Or need a pick-me-up?? Check out their website. They are always changing their selection of hilarious tees. My current favorites include:

Zombies Hate Fast Food (HERE)

Bacon Makes Everything Better (HERE)

Think Outside the Box (HERE)

They are also welcoming more suggestions!

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

One lucky winner will win
a SnorgTee
of their Choice
(US/Canada 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 SnorgTees website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

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

Enter now though Thursday, August 4.
Winner will be announced on Friday.

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

Running Diva Mom Cafe Press Running T-Shirt Giveaway

I recently opened my new Cafe Press shop and am selling some fun items for runners, bloggers and your little fan club on race day. Check out the new Running Diva Mom Cafe Press Shop (HERE).

Cute, right?!?!?! Gotta have something?!?!?!?!

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

One lucky winner will win a
T-Shirt of their choice
($18 value)

from the RDM Cafe Press Website

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 Running Diva Mom Cafe Press website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. 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, July 31.
Winner will be announced on Monday.

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

Karhu Strong 2 Folcrum Ride -- Running Shoe Review

Last winter, I came across Karhu (HERE) running shoes. They are Finland's legendary running brand of shoes. Loving bright colors and fashionable running gear, I fell in love with all their fun, speedy looking shoes. Neon orange, lime green, bright yellow, hot pink .... oh my!!


Last March, I received an orange pair of Strong 2 Fulcrum Ride running shoes (HERE). I was sent the Strong 2 Fulcrum Rides, because I need a stability shoe. I've been in Brooks Adrenaline's for the past six years and was interested in seeing what the Strong 2 Fulcrum Rides had to offer and how they'd feel different when out on the pavement.

When I opened the box, I drooled over the funness (Is that a word?) of the bright orange color. I immediately wondered what cute running outfits I had in my drawers to match them, or if I'd need to make a purchase.

On the Karhu website, these babies currently retail for $97.99. Engineered with their latest evolution of the stability, Fulcrum designed for maximum forward population. Premolded heel counter and EVA lasting board for lightweight fit and comfort. Dual mesh upper shoe for breath-ability and support exactly where it's needed. A fabulous combination of blown rubber and carbon rubber forefoot for the best traction and performance.

A stability shoe is ideal for runners who require additional support, the Strong fulcrum ride's stability fulcrum proactively guides the foot to neutral. For the performance runner who seeks stability with a lightweight and responsive ride. Available in orange for female runners or green for men.

These shoes have a high performance, breathable ortholite footbed, too. Excellent moisture management and durable cushion, and a great step-in feel when you slip them on.

STABILITY SHOE COMPARISON:
Brooks Adrenalines(left) and Karhu Strong 2 Fulcrum Ride (right)

I've been alternating these bright orange bad-boys for the past four months with my other running shoes. I definitely notice a difference when I immediately put them on. They seem a lot taller (much like a wedge sandal feels different than a pair of stilettos). I was a little worried at first that I would turn my ankle or something in them, when I initially tried them out. But, I didn't. They seemed very cushy, and continue to be. Truly like the new "foot pillows" we all love and adore when we buy any new pair of running shoes. But, these continue to be cushy and I even feel like I have bounce in my step! I feel like I've had good traction with them on the treadmill, on the road and on crushed gravel trails. I typically wear a standard size 10 running shoes and the 10's I was sent in this model fit me perfectly.

Since I've been concerned about the height of the shoe's sole, and noticed a definite difference when I initially put the shoes on (still do to this day), I am showing a comparison with my Brooks Adrenaline's. The sole is obviously a lot higher, and the shoe is a lot chunkier. I don't see this as a "sleek" design at all. But, they are definitely lightweight as advertised and a good stability shoe nonetheless. I would not be concerened about twisting ankles, or adjusting your footstroke.

Madison Mini Marathon Entry Giveaway

The 3rd Running of the Madison Mini-Marathon & 5K takes place on Saturday, August 20, 2011.



Don't miss your chance to participate in this 3rd annual event that SOLD OUT in 2010. The Mini is a must-do on the Midwest running calendar. The Mini is thrilled to have the University of Wisconsin Student Union as the host location for this event. UW grads or first timers to Madison will get to experience one of Madison's treasures as our expo will be in the new UW Union South and our post-race party will be on the UW Memorial Union Terrace on Lake Mendota. Participants will enjoy the beauty of Madison from the University of Wisconsin Campus, State Street, Wisconsin State Capital, the University of Wisconsin Arboretum and the wonderful views of the lakes. Register Now!

I have participated in this fabulous event in my hometown and loved it both times!!! The route gives you a great, scenic tour of Madison on foot. The race was very well organized as was the finish line experience.

2009 Madison Mini Marathon Race Report (HERE)
2010 Madison Mini Marathon Race Report (HERE)

I planned a fun bloggy dinner event the night before last year, and met some great runners! If you will be participating this year, please email me at runningdivamom at yahoo dot com. I can't wait to meet more of you this year!!!!!!!!!!

Not signed up yet?!?!?! Here is your chance .....

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

ONE LUCKY WINNER WILL WIN AN
ENTRY TO THE
2011 MADISON MINI MARATHON
August 20, 2011
Madison, Wisconsin



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 Madison Mini Marathon website HERE and tell me why you wanna run this race!! LEAVE ME A COMMENT
4 – Become a fan of Madison Mini Marathon on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!). LEAVE ME A COMMENT
5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.

Enter now though Monday, July 25
Winner will be announced on Tuesday.

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

June 2011 Running Ramblings

June was a fun month of running alone and with other people. I completed half marathon #7 and #8 of the year. I was sponsored for the Fort Atkinson Half Marathon (HERE), where I met sweet blogger, Ms. Margaret. And last week I finished my own half marathon on whim (HERE), as I headed out my front door for a quick loop of my neighborhood.


The weather has been warm, but beautiful lately and I have enjoyed running outside alone on local trails and getting my annual Bondi Band tanline on my forehead. I've been making a lot of running dates with friends when I don't have the kids, to preoccupy myself ... and get the miles in. I've been running with everyone, from newbies to speed demons. It's been a blast to mix-it-up with pace, connect and reconnect with people and share life stories. It's amazing to me how open people can be with eachother out on a run. I can barely know someone, yet we share openly and connect immediately. Sometimes I even forget that I am running. I think it is The Run that gets us lost with our thoughts, breaks down barriers and gives us a way to bond and connect.


I've been coaching 2-3 times some evenings and have been meeting clients at different locations and trails around town. For me, it's been awesome seeing them grow through the process, not just physically, but mentally. They show up with a smile on their face, ready to go. And, rarely do they ever say, "I can't do this.", but "Let's do this!". Some nights I run 4-5 times, because I run with each client and then run short distances on my own, in between appointments. It's been a wonderful way to get in my mileage for the month.

June: 105.6 miles
May: 131.2 miles
April: 100.1 miles
March: 107.9 miles
February: 71.6 miles
January: 110.7 miles
Total Miles for 2011: 632.1
Miles Needed to reach 1,500 Mileage Goal: 862.9
Longest Runs: 13.1 miles (twice)