Defeat the Post-Race Blues

We all go through it – we train and we train … and we train – as we focus on the BIG DAY!  It’s finally here and we finally run that 13.1 or 26.2 mile journey.  We cross that finish line and wear our medal around our neck all day.  The next day, we wake up a little very sore, can’t walk down the stairs, perhaps have a day off from running and a break from the rigid training schedule.  We stare at the container of energy gels and bottles of sports drink staring right back at us in the kitchen pantry, wondering when it will be used again.  Now what??!!  What the heck are we supposed to do?

Whether it’s a half a full or even a 5K – many runners at all levels experience this.  It’s very similar to post-partum depression after giving birth, or the intense planning of a wedding.  The impendent of the big day has been such a primary focus of your life for the past several months.  So, what should you do now?

 

I asked this very question over on the RDM Facebook page (HERE), after I ran my last full marathon.  I often enjoy a week or so of a loose training schedule, some extra “down time” and maybe treat myself to a few things special.  However, after that week passes, I am often faced with missing the training, missing the benefits that I see in my body and miss the excitement of having that big race on my calendar.  I love the routine and knowing what is “expected” of me.

Here are some ideas that RDM readers shared to keep themselves motivated - many that I use myself, to get through the post-race blues.

-       Sign up for another race! (by far – the most popular suggestion!)

-       Analyze how you could improve as a runner – focus on things like form, footstrike, etc

-       Join/form a running group with friends.

-       Set a few running dates with friends shortly after your race, to keep you going

-       If your goal was just to finish the race, you were focused on distance.  Sign up for another race of any distance, and focus on time.

-       Force yourself to go for a super slow short run within a few days after the race.

-       Sign up for a 5K or 10K a week after your race

-       Start a blog or motivational Facebook page

-       Update your playlist and go for a long run one week after the race.

-       Recharge and reconnect with why you love running.  Go “naked” – no watches/times.

-       Go on a relaxing vacation

-       Try something new – duathlons, triathlons, mud run, skiing, cross-country skiing, zumba, etc

-       Treat yourself to some new gear for the next season and get ready for the next round of training in style.

How do you get through the post-race blues?

Ignite Naturals Reload Energy Gel Review & Giveaway

Ignite Naturals Energy Gels (HERE) offered to let me try their Reload Energy Gels (HERE).   I have not personally seen these energy gels at local running stores or discount stores.  So, I was excited to try something different.  Each pack has about 100 calories and 25g carbs.  Energy gels are something you need to get use to.  But, after you've downed a few, they become an easy go-to source of energy and fuel during your long workouts.  They are portable and easy to store in your waste pack, handheld water bottle, saddle bag or gym bag.

Reload ingredients:

• 100% natural fig paste: Easily digestible source of energy, and mineral rich to replete electrolytes
• Maqui berry extract: Antioxidant protects heart function, and a natural source of minerals and flavonoids
• Peak ATP: Elevates APT levels to create more energy naturally
• CoQ10 ubiquinone: Antioxidant generates cellular energy, and supports healthy heart function
• Ecklonia cava: Potent antioxidant and supports the reduction of inflammatory cytokines in tissue
• Sea salt: Electrolyte maintaining osmotic pressure in extracellular fluid, loaded with trace minerals

Reload benefits:

• Replenishes carbohydrates and removes waste efficiently†
• Helps reduce oxidative stress by removing lactose acid from muscles so they recover faster
• Delivers direct ATP energy for muscles without dehydrating and crash-inducing caffeine
• Wholefood ingredients for easy digestion and easy on the body†
• 100% natural D-fructose that enhances delivery of glucose, nutrients and oxygen to working muscles
• NO processed additives (maltodextrins), just high quality natural sugars that convert quickly to glycogen to power muscles
• NO processed sugars that cause oxidative stress and free radical formation†
• No water for mixing needed

Reload Energy Gels are “naturally” better even down to the way you carry these single serve, easy open packages with you… Reload has a Power Clip that hooks directly onto a belt or gear for faster, easier access. No more fumbling with zippers or pockets so hands are free, mind stays focused.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I received a sampler pack - one of each flavor:

Raspberry Pomegranate

Wildberry
Blackberry Blueberry

 

I'm usually not too keen on berry flavored energy gels.  I much prefer vanilla, chocolate, mint-chocolate, honey and the occassional orange.  So, I was thinking I wouldn't be able to down it.  Because let's face it - with energy gels, a lot is about the first impression of the taste, flavor and consistency.  The rest (the benefits) come later.  If you can't down it, you won't see the benefits.  I surprisingly really liked them.  I much preferred the Raspberry Pomegranate and Blackberry Blueberry flavors over wildberry.  The consistency was good and it went down well.  I tried them on several runs last fall and they teared open well too.  That can also be a problem with some other brands.  

 

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One lucky winner will win a
Sampler Pack of Energy Gels
from Ignite Naturals

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

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

5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter (@RunningDivaMom #RunningDivaMom) account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.  @IgniteNaturals

Enter now though February 5.

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

Nuun Review & Giveaway

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

 

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

 

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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One lucky winner will win
a sampler pack of Nuun

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

 

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

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

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

 

5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter (@RunningDivaMom #RunningDivaMom) account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH. @nunnhydration

 

Enter now though February 4.

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

Things change.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

I was trying to lose weight, I am addicted.

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

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

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

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

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

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

I wanted to lose weight. It feels invigorating.

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

Wanted to loose weight and it keeps me healthy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I lost my job and I'm ADDICTED!

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

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

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

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

Giveaway Winners ...

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

One winner was chose at random to receive the following: 

Random.org chose ……..

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

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


Congratulations!!!  Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address.  And, I will get you your prize!
 

Thank you for following my journey!!

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

PLEASE VOTE and Make My Dream a Reality!

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

 

VOTE HERE

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Make my dream a reality ……

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

Thanks for your support!

 

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

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

Grocery Carts.

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



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

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

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

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

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

Icebreaker Indoor Half Marathon 2013 Race Report

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

 

The Boyfriend and I

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Amy and I

Me, Patti and Christina

 

 

 

 

M



y foot

 

 

Me with Koreen, and RDM reader

 

 

 

Watch Time:  2:00:01

Chip Time:  1:58:30

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Sparkly Soul Headbands Review & Giveaway

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

 

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

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

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

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

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

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

 

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

Enter now though Saturday, January 19.

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

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

Beth Quinn Designs Necklace Review & Giveaway

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

 

 

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

 

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

 

 



 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

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

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

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

2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

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

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

Enter now though Saturday, January 19.

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

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