Girls on the Run RAFFLE & FUNDRAISER for the Little Runners!!!

Growing up, I (believe it or not!) was completely shy when it came to trying new things. I didn't really do sports, extra-curricular activties and absolutely hated gym class. I was always scared to try something new and hated the end of the school year because we had to run the mile (I really laugh at that now!). I continuously took one dance (jazz) class a year and was passionate about practicing in my bedroom and having friends over to make up routines with spotlights (flashlights) on us in the basement. I never had an interest in trying something new or getting out of my comfort zone. I never wanted to try anything new and my parents didn't push me to. And, that is just fine. But, I wish I would've discovered other things. I mean, what could I be really good at, but never gave it a chance?!



This is why I try to get Little Diva involved in all sorts of activities. Despite what some people may think, I have never pushed her into anything ... especially running. She gets a thrill out of participating in activities ... and making new friends at each stop along the way. We've tried running, piano, hip-hop, swimming, karate, gymnastics, mommy-and-me yoga, t-ball and drama class (just off the top of my head). I figure if I can get a cheap rate for a 6-8 week program, she can give it a try. We aren't committed to anything and if she doesn't like it, we can try something else.

This is why I love Girls on the Run. I have been passionate about the Girls on the Run Organization for quite some time now. I just love what they do to motivate young girls and young women to get active, believe in themselves and build confidence. I think it's totally awesome that I can get passed by a nine year old little girl that's clomping her feet along a 5K course -- more power to her!!!

GOTR Mission:
To educate and prepare girls for a life time of self-respect and healthy living.



About GOTR:
Girls on the Run® is a life-changing, experiential learning programs for girls age eight to thirteen years old. The programs combine training for a 3.1 mile running event with self-esteem enhancing, uplifting workouts. The goals of the programs are to encourage positive emotional, social, mental, spiritual and physical development.



This is why I have decided to run as a Sole Mate for the 2010 Madison Marathon on May 30th. If you are interested in making a donation to the GOTR program, you can do so here. THANK YOU!!!! Still, thinking about it?!?! Well, you may be serious after you see what's in store for you below.



From my little diva to yours ... you could win all of this ................. PLUS MORE (yes, keep scrolling ..........)

MOMMY AND ME RUNNING SKIRTS OUTFIT

You will work with Running Skirts to grab your own mommy-and-me running skirts outfit!!!!

You will work with I Run Like a Girl to snag your own YOUTH I RUN LIKE A GIRL SHIRT!

Book - Pellie Runs a Marathon by Michele Bredice Craemer
Book - We are Girls Who Love to Run by Brianna Grant

Doll - Runner Girl from Go! Go! Sports Girls/Dream Big Toy Company

3 Girls (Babes) Bondi Bands

Running-Themed Bookmarks and Literature

Stay-Put Hair Products from Goody

Generous assortment of items from the national Girls on the Run organization:
T-Shirt, Polo Shirt, Pen, Memo Pad, Bracelet, Cup, Bag, Deoderant from Secret

There are soooooo many ways to win!!!!!

THERE ARE THREE REQUIRED ENTRIES

(#1, #2 and #3 below).

Please only enter if you have a little girl to share this wonderful package with. This can be your daughter, sister, neighbor, friend, student ....

inspire a little girl to believe in herself today!!!

THREE REQUIRED ENTRIES:

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

2 -- You MUST tell me what special little girl(s) you would share this package with. Which little girl will you inspire to believe in herself? ... LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 -- You MUST Donate to the Girls on the Run organization. EVERY DOLLAR COUNTS! You will receive one entry for every single dollar you donate to my journey as a sole mate for the 2010 Madison Marathon on May 30th! Thanks for your help supporting this fabulous organization that I adore so much!!! ... LEAVE ME A COMMENT

ADDITIONAL ENTRIES:

4 -- Become a fan of GOTR on Facebook ... LEAVE ME A COMMENT

5 -- Become a fan of Bondi Band on Facebook ... LEAVE ME A COMMENT

6 -- Become a fan of Goody on Facebook ... LEAVE ME A COMMENT

7 -- Visit the Go Go Sports Girls Website and tell me which doll you would like to give to someone special ... LEAVE ME A COMMENT

8 -- Visit I RUN LIKE A GIRL online and tell me which shirt/color you'd like for your favorite little runner ... LEAVE ME A COMMENT

9 -- Visit Running Skirts website and tell me which mommy and me outfit you would like and where you would wear this together. ... LEAVE ME A COMMENT

10 -- Become a follower of author, Brianna Grant's blog ... LEAVE ME A COMMENT

11 -- Become a fan of Running Skirts on Facebook ... LEAVE ME A COMMENT

12 -- Post about this giveaway on your blog, twitter or facebook account (as many times as you'd like) ... LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH

Contest ends on Saturday, April 10 at midnight.

The winner will be announced on Sunday, April 11.

Recovery Sock Product Review & Giveaway

Recovery Socks are so popular right now and are pretty affordable compared to the other compressions socks I've seen. They come in the standard black, white and grey, but are also offered in fucshia and lime green. Hmmmm ... do I have a running skirt to match these?!?! This cute fucshia pair is sweet and they are exactly what I snagged to review were only listed at $34.90.

Recovery socks claims that they are a graduated compressions sock. They are supposed to enhance and stimulate circulation in your lower legs. You can wear Recovery Socks during a long training run to keep your legs fresh or aftwards during recovery. They are also great for long airplane rides and traveling.

They claim that they will boost your performance, improves oxygen delivery to the muscles, stimulates blood circulation, reduces leg cramps and stiffness and will reduce lactic acid production in your legs.

They are made of a wicking and antibacterial fiber (we're all so technical, aren't we?!) and were tested on World Class endurance athletes.

I've worn my Recovery Socks three or four times already. Once on my recent 18 miler and the others on shorter treadmill runs (3-4 miles). I also wore them once AFTER a workout, to see if I'd feeling any different during recovery.

Little Diva is the best lil photographer these days!!

They were great for my long outdoor run, because the weather was somewhat cool, and the socks kept my legs warm. When the sun came out and things heated up over the next three hours, I didn't overheat, as I feared I would with these socks. They kept me at the right temperature. I was worried that they may shift or fall down, but they didn't. I also have "thicker" legs then other long distance runners and they seem to fit me just fine. They may not look as sleek as they would on some of you, but they fit just fine and didn't need adjusting as I ran. Now that I look back to last weekend, I didn't feel sore the next day after running 18 miles, didn't have trouble walking down stairs or anything. I'm not sure if this was due to the Recovery Socks or not. But, they sure didn't hurt the training run.



The first time I wore them was on a 5K treadmill run and I felt the biggest effect during that wear. My legs felt a bit tingly which kept my mind entertained during my workout.


They are also super cute, as some of you are really getting into the knee-high socks craze right now while running. As much as I love being matchy-matchy and sporting cute running outfits, I wonder if others out walking during my long run just thought I was trying to be "cute" rather than testing out some "compression socks". Oh well, I guess that's multi-tasking!!


Check out what other athletes are saying about Recovery Socks here.


Visit Recovery Socks online at: http://www.recoverysock.com/


You can pick up your pair of fucshia recovery socks and two Recovery Socks headbands here in my huge giveaway. If you haven't entered already, why not?!?! Check it out, you can sponsor me in my marathon for the Girls on the Run Program and you can try out a lot of great products!!!! Check it out, check it out, check it out ...... (If you're daughter watches Sonny with a Chance on the Disney Channel, you'll get that one -- We love Demi Lovato!!). Entries are being accepted until midnight on Thursday, April 1st!

My Triathlon Jewelry Product Review & Givewaway

My Triathlon Jewelry has something for everyone, whether you are a runner, cyclist, swimmer or triathlete. They offer several unique items, jewelry, key chains, christmas ornaments and gifts. They also offer custom medals. Everything they sell is made in the USA.

First of all ... Everything on their website is super affordable. All items are pretty much listed for under $10 a pop. You can't beat that! Start shopping now at http://www.mytriathlonjewelry.com/index.htm.

I chose to review this simple 26.2 pendant on a beaded chain. I have only competed in one marathon this far and am currently training for my second. But, I have been wearing this proudly (just like the 26.2 sticker on my minivan!!). No matter how many times you've completed the 26.2 mile journey, you are a member of the club and deserve to show others that you've completed the mileage proudly!!

I liked how simple this necklace was. I recently wore it on a "mommy day', bumming around town with Little Dude and even had a store clerk as me which marathon I competed in. I was shocked that she even knew what 26.2 miles meant, until she told me that she has completed three marathons. Then, of course we sparked up a conversation about running and our addiction. It's amazing how runners can connect instantly. I also had a neighbor ask me the very same day which marathon I'm training for now ... not sure if she understood the meaning of the necklace or she just thinks I'm obsessed?!?!

Looking for a great holiday gift a few months down the road? They also sell really adorable ornaments related to endurance sports. I can't wait to decorate our christmas tree with one or two of these bad boys!

Anyhow, My Triathlon Jewelry is a great way to show your accomplishments in a simple ... and fashionable ... way. Whether you run recently ran 13.1 miles in your first marathon or train for 140.6 miles in an Ironman competition, there is something for you.

You have the chance to win this awesome I Love Running Necklace here in my HUGE giveaway. If you haven't already entered, please do. It supports a great cause!!! Giveaway ends Thursday, April 1 at midnight. GOOD LUCK!

2 DAYS LEFT .... GIRLS ON THE RUN GIVEAWAY

This is a friendly reminder that there are still two days left for my HUGE GIVEAWAY benefiting the Girls on the Run Organization here. Enter now through midnight on Thursday, April 1st.

I love the Girls on the Run Organization and I have signed up to be a Sole Mate for the 2010 Madison Marathon ad needed to raise $262 (yes, resembling 26.2!!) by the race on May 30th.

YOU ALL HAVE ALREADY HELPED ME RAISE $270 AND I HAVE ALREADY EXCEEDED MY INITIAL GOAL!!!!!!!!!!! THANK YOU!!!!

You can visit my donation page here to donate and receive extra entries. Your contribution will benefit the Girls on the Run's Dane County (Madison, Wisconsin) Chapter.

*** Another giveaway will be posted this weekend, featuring other amazing products from other amazing sponsors.

4 Miles w/ the Kiddos

Today is the first day of spring break for Little Diva, so both kiddos are home for "mommy day" today. Lucky me only has to work two days this week and will spend the rest of the time with the kids.

After breakfast, we all headed downstairs for a 4 mile treadmill run. The kids actually love coming downstairs and spending time together. I loaded them up with some goldfish and pretzels and we watched Super Nanny. Little Dude was very concerned about the little 2 year old boy that wouldn't go to bed. I asked him if he reminded him of anyone.

Today's after workout glow

Little Diva's photography work of me with my standard after run Diet Mountain Dew. And man, I really would love to get this lower-level finished off ... so sick of running next to insulation.
Little Diva and Little Dude always have fun with the exercise ball and yoga mat.

They also had a blast (as always!) playing with diaper boxes and blankets and making forts. i don't know how they squeeze themselves into those tiny boxes?!?

The rest of the day will be fun for all ... spending holiday gift cards at Build a Bear and Target. Because, we need more toys, right?! Then if it's warmer this afternoon, I hope to get them out to one of our favorite parks and a Subway picnic.

If you workout with your kids, what do you do to entertain them and keep it fun??!!! I look forward to hearing your suggestions.

12 Mile Treadmill Training Run & Power Bar Energy Gel Blast Review

So, I woke up today and had a 12 miler ahead of me. Hubby also had about a one hour run on tap and we had a family gathering about 40 mins away from home in the afternoon. He ran in the morning while I cleaned up around the house, did stuff with the kids and got them ready. We spent the afternoon with family outside, in the garage. We weren't prepared, so many of us didn't dress appropriately. The forcast was for low-50's today, but it was windy and turned out to be quite cloud-covered. Everyone was chilled. We got home around 5pm and I still had a 2 hr run ahead of me. I decided to put Little Dude down for a late nap, Little Diva in front of the tv (she was outside all day and playing with my little cousins, so I didn't feel too guilty) and hubby was ready to zonk out on the couch. It's amazing what the weather and cold can do to a person. I hopped ont he treadmill around 5:30 pm.

I had made my own version of G2 (low-calorie Gatorade). I've gotten sick of sticker-shock from the individual G2 bottles they sell and even the packets they now sell similar to Crystal Lite. Hubby buys the huge powder packets that last us a long time. Now, they last us even longer because I do about 1/2 Gatorade and 1/2 water. I consumed both bottles, a Crank Sports e-Gel (which I love!) in Cherry Bomb flavor (like a chocolate covered cherry!) and a pack of the new powerBary Energy Gel Blasts in Raspberry flavor.

I cranked the 1980's box-fan that I enherited from my parents and watched almost two hours of realtity tv (MTV's Teen Cribs, True Life and then Ruby on the Style Network).

I like the Crank Sports e-Gels because they are bigger than other gel packets, which also results in consuming more calories. But, I love them. 150 calories in a 1.9 oz packet. I get a bigger burst of energy obviously.

This was my first time trying the PowerBar Energy Gel Blasts. I wasn't sure what the consistency would be like or what they really looked like from the package. Here is what one looks like and one that is bitten into. They are gummy like the other chewy products out there right now, but have a "liquid" center which was good. But they aren't really "squirting" with fruit flavor like the picture shows. But, they were yummy, easy to chew and gave me a burst of energy. 190 calories in the pouch and there were 9-10 pieces in the pack. I tried to take two about every mile or so, after the third mile. This way I don't ever "lose" energy and feel too incredibly faint. I would try them again.

Anyhow ..... back to the run .... our treadmill automatically shuts off at 100 mins which is such a pain. Duh, I realize to "normal" people this would sound completely insane!!!!!!! But, since I had a 12 miler planned ... I had to keep going!! :-)

So, I planned to stop at 10 miles and got it done in 90:03 (Gosh, I really hate that my treadmill flashes back-and-forth between distance and time. It really does drive me crazy.). Not too shabby, eh?!

I drank some G2, and headed upstairs for a quick potty break and then started her up again for the last 2 miles. I tried to crank it a little, just to get done and my stomach was starting to upset me. But, I plowed through the last 2 miles in 17:12.

12 miles on the treadmill -- 1:47:15

After workout "glow" ... gotta love that feeling!

My post-run refreshments: Ice Water and Diet Mountain Dew ... mmmmm ....

Gu Giveaway Winner ............

The winner of my Gu Giveaway is Sunflower Kisses. Check out her blog. She is a new runner that is training for her first marathon in Nashville! Good luck! Email me your address and to claim your prize!!! CONGRATS on winning ... and taking up running!!

**UPDATED** HUGE Running Diva Mom Giveaway -- Benefits Girls on The Run

To celebrate my 100th post, I mentioned awhile back that I would be hosting a HUGE giveaway ... well, I am delivering. I've received so much response from my awesome and generous sponsors, that it has taken me awhile to get it all together, after returning from our family vacation.

I love the Girls on the Run Organization and I have signed up to be a Sole Mate for the 2010 Madison Marathon and need to raise $262 (yes, resembling 26.2!!) by the race on May 30th. You can visit my donation page here to donate and receive extra entries (as mentioned at the end of this post). Your contribution will benefit the Girls on the Run's Dane County (Madison, Wisconsin) Chapter. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!

ONE lucky runner will receive all of this ............. PLUS MORE ( ... keep scrolling ... )

One pack of Action Wipes

One Organic Lip Balm from Eco Lips

Your choice of one Top from
I Run Like a Girl

Your Choice of one Pace Band or one Grace Band
from Races 2 Remember

8 Gu Energy Gel packets

2 -Pineapple

2- Mint Chocolate

2 - Vanilla Bean

2 - Jet Blackberry

3 Bondi Bands

(pink sparkles, 26.2, princess tiara)

An assortment of "Stay Put" Hair Accessories

from Goody

An assortment of suncare products

from Beyond Coastal

One pair of Fucshia Recovery Socks

Two Recovery Sock Headbands

One pair of Running Funky Shorts

Marathon Mom Charm from Lift Your Sole

I Love Running Necklace from My Triathlon Jewelry

DID I GET YOUR ATTENTION???!!! There are so many ways you can win and one required entry. SEVERAL PRODUCT REVIEWS COMING SOON!!!

1 - You must be a FOLLOWER of RUNNING DIVA MOM; LEAVE ME A COMMENT

2 - Post this giveaway on your blog, facebook or twitter account; LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH

3 - Tell me wear you would wear sport this awesome shorts from Running Runky; LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 - Become a fan of Recovery Sock on Facebook; LEAVE ME A COMMENT

5 - Become a fan of Bondi Band on Facebook; LEAVE ME A COMMENT

6 - Become a fan of Lift Your Sole on Facebook; LEAVE ME A COMMENT

7 - Become a fan of Beyond Coastal Suncare on Facebook; LEAVE ME A COMMENT

8 - Become a fan of Eco Lips on Facebook; LEAVE ME A COMMENT

9 - Become a fan of Action Wipes on Facebook; LEAVE ME A COMMENT

10 - Visit My Triathlon Jewelry website and let me know which item interests you most; LEAVE ME A COMMENT

11 - Visit Races 2 Remember website and tell me if you're intrested in a pace band or grace band and where you will sport it; LEAVE ME A COMMENT

12 - Become a fan of Gu Energy on Facebook; LEAVE ME A COMMENT

13 - Visit I Run Like a Girl website and let me know which ladies top you would be interested in; LEAVE ME A COMMENT

14 - DONATE TO THE GIRLS ON THE RUN ORGANIZATION (that I love so much). I have signed up to be a Sole Mate for the 2010 Madison Marathon. I need to raise $262 by May 30th. You can visit my donation page here. Contributions will benefit the Girls on the Run Dane County (Madison, Wisconsin) Chapter. Every $5 donation will receive 5 entries into the giveaway. If you donate $10 you will receive 10 entries; and so on. If you do decide to donate, please LEAVE ME A COMMENT (and include your "real" name, so that I can match it up with a donation listed on my donation page.

** There will be a separate giveaway next week aimed at little running divas that is sponsored by the GOTR organization. Much more on that SOON. **

So, post away and donate until your little heart's content!! The giveaway will end at midnight on Thursday, April 1. The winner will be announced on Friday April 2. GOOD LUCK!!!!