First Long Run of the Season

I celebrated Easter with Little Diva and Little Dude yesterday morning and dropped them off for their weekend with their dad.  I had a twenty miler planned for this weekend.  I plan all of my long runs every-other-weekend, when I cannot be with them.  If I fail to get out and run, I have then totally derailed from my training plan, because I won't get another long run in for two more weeks.  So, I try to hold myself accountable by organizing a run with a friend our group of runners.  It also helps the miles pass much faster and keeps me going.  I planned to meet up with two friends, Dwight and George, at 10:30 at the Glacial Drumlin State Trail Head in Cottage Grove.  The sun wash shining, the weather was perfect and there was  a slight breeze.  George organizes a local running group, that's called the Honey Badgers (Honey Badgers) and several of the members were already out there running at their own pace (since I couldn't meet any earlier).  Some were going to be joining us.  George's pace is faster than me.  And Dwight is training for his first ultramarathon (a fifty miler next month) and a freak-of-nature, so I was a little concerned about what was in store for me over the next 20 miles.



Glacial Drumlin State Trail
Trailhead in Cottage Grove, WI

The restrooms and drinking fountains were still closed for the season. Bummer.  We decided to head out 6 miles and back 6 miles.  That would get us 12 miles, we could rehydrate, and we could re-evaluate if we wanted to head back out.  Some of the group had already ran six miles and Dwight was going to do a triple ... a total of 26.2 miles for the day.  I was hoping for 18-20 miles. 

The Glacial Drumling is hilly at the very start, but then is completely flat and straight-out-and back.  George ran ahead with Kim and Brian and Dwight stuck with me.  I was aiming for around ten minute miles, but he informed me that we were running nine minute miles.  Oops!  At around mile four, the toes on my left foot were all cramped (as if they had been curled).  I was over compensating for that, and then my left knee started aching.  Dwight stuck with me and I pushed on.  Kim turned around and headed back around this point.   At mile 6, the guys ahead of us kept going.  Dwight ran ahead, and we decided to run to Deerfield to the 7 mile marker ... so that we would only need to head back out for an additional 6 miles after our water break.  The water at the park in Deerfield wasn't running yet either.  We turned around at mile 7 and head back.  At some point, I asked Dwight to walk for 30-60 seconds and he bared with me.  My toes and knee were really cramping.  The guys were still in sight ahead of us, but pretty far ahead.  I was happy to see mile marker 4 on the return, because I thought we would be hitting mile 5 (we were still ahead of pace, even though I was struggling).  I told Dwight then when we got to the next mile marker, that I was going to stop and walk briefly and I really wanted him to move on and catch the guys (he had so much left in him).  So, he finally agreed to do so.  For the last three miles, I walked 10-20 seconds every five minutes.  And that got me back to the trail head.  The walking really, really helped me.  I HATE walking during long runs or races.  But, it helped me finished and that's all that I cared about at that point. 




Flat and covered, out-and-back

The guys were rehydrating and George told me that 14 miles was all that my body wanted me to do that day.  But, I refused.  Brian already had in 20 miles and left.  George was satisfied with the 14 miles and we chatted awhile while I hydrated and Dwight headed out for his last six miles.  After George left, I headed out with the walk/run approach.  Surprisingly, my toes didn't cramp at all now and my knee barely hurt.  I passed Dwight on his return, around mile two and I think he was surprised to see me out there.  I actually felt pretty great.  I ran the entire way to mile three.  Then, I walked on the turn around.  I tried to take more 10-20 second baughts of walking ever 5-10 minutes.  Sometimes I surprised myself; sometimes I didn't.  I'd use mile marker, bridges, signs, groups of people running or riding towards me, fallen tree limbs ... anything ... as my points of reference for motivation to keep going .... and make it there!  And, I did.  I ran the last mile and up the monstrous hill and straight to the painted "finish line" at the trailhead.

20 miles D-O-N-E!

My time was slower than what the guys would do, but I finished.  Surprisingly, even with all the baughts of walking, my time (on the same trail) was faster than last year. 



Leaky Powerade Zero during
3+ hrs of running

I stretched a bit, walked a bit, finished my Diet Mountain Dew and updated my Facebook status! :)  I noticed the second half of my run, how stained my hands were from my Powerade Zero.  Yikes!


Favorite post-run indulgence



Vita Coco Coconut Water Review & Giveaway

A friend, Ironman and ultramarathoner, recently introduced me to Vita Coco (HERE).  This stuff is HEAVEN!!!  Since being given the opportunity to try several of the yummy flavors, I've been seeing it everywhere ... including my local grocery stores and in the pages of my running and weightloss magazines.

Vita Coco offers several coconut waters in several different flavor combinations.  Vita Coco is an all-natural, super-hydrating, fat-free, cholesterol-free, nutrient-packed, potassium-stacked, mega-electrolyte coconut water!  It's packed with five electrolytes and perfect for pre-run, during your workout or post-workout.

I have a hard time hydrating with something that contains calories, especially since I'm already consuming calories through my energy gels.  But, this stuff is great.  I used it on shorter runs and have honestly not tried it during long training runs, because I'm worried it may upset my stomach a bit (I'm sensitive).  It's been a great way to hydrate before runs, however.  I've been keeping bottles in the refrigerator at work and enjoying a tasty treat at the end of my workday, before heading out for my evening runs with clients.  It's given me a great boost of energy.  I still have carried a handheld bottle with water on my runs, because that is what I'm comfortable with doing.  But, I have not been overly thirsty and not been guzzling down tons of water during my runs, because I've felt more hydrated. 

The tasty, tropical flavors are perfect for the warmer summertime runs.  I can't wait.  With flavors (HERE) like Acai & Pomegrantate, Passion Fruit, Peach & Mango, Pineapple and more ... you will definitely want to treat yourself during each training run.  My favorite was the Pineapple Vita Coco.  YUM!  I have a feeling these would also taste great in breakfast smoothies!  And would be a great alternative to giving the kids ice cream treats this summer.

My only beef is the price is around $30 for a twelve pack online and the indiviuals cartons at the grocery store are quite pricey.  Although, if it's an occassional indulgence, it can totally be justifable.
 

I learned from the website that Vita Coco is also a good choice for pregnant women and nursing mothers, because it is pasteurized.  It's even been featured on the pages of Pregnancy Magazine.

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

One lucky winner will win
a case of Vita Coco(12 - 16.9 oz bottles of the flavor of your choice/

except tangerine)

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

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

2 – Become a fan of Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

4 – Become a fan of Vita Coco 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, April 14.

[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom,

please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Run Like a Girl Book Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review the book, Run Like a Girl, by Mina Samuels.  You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Run Like a Girl online HERE and start shopping.

There were 84 entries in my recent giveaway on the RDM blog and Facebook page.  One winner was chose at random to receive a copy of Run Like a Girl by Mina Samuels.

Random.org chose ……..

Laura @
The G Family

(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 ) ]

Flirty Diva Tees - I Run So I Can Eat Cupcakes Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review the adorable I Run So I Can Eat Cupcakes Tee from Flirty Diva Tees.  You can read all about my fabulousexperience HERE.

Please visit Flirty Diva Tees online HERE and start shopping.

There were 99 entries in my recent giveaway on the RDM blog and Facebook page.  One winner was chose at random to receive a Flirty Diva Tees I Run So I Can Eat Cupcakes Tee. 

Random.org chose ……..

Madison @
Peace Love Run
(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 ) ]

Three Things Thursday

1)  Last weekend I purchased our 2012 State Park Pass.  I think that this might just be the best $25 I've ever spent.  I was astounded when I looked through the brochure and saw the parks scattered all over the state.  So many near and far.  I'm still going to try to make as many trips to Wisconsin state parks and trails this year to make the most of the pass ... and have some new experiences in the outdoors.  The kids had fun doing our own version of "geocaching", where we hid some treasures and McDonald's toys in plastic containers and they had to find them in the woods. We enjoyed a picnic in the park, did a 1.8 mile nature hike and learned about the plants and effigy mounds. 

2)  This week was Little Diva's spring break.  I took two days off of work to spend some alone time with her (more on the week's events later).  We've been out of our normal routine and having a lot of fun.  We even tackled some of the items on her her tee's to do list the other day (purchased at Justice).  We've mixed some pampering, relaxation, errands and several active outings.  It's been a blast and she's been a riot.

3)  While I was in Florida last month, I missed a gathering of several bloggers from the midwest.  The twelve of us have formed a fabulous team to run Ragnar Relay (HERE) from Madison to Chicago in June.  We are definitely going to have the most fun ever, during our 200 mile journey ... in two vans ... with 12 sweaty ladies ... without any sleep ... navigating overnight in the Marathon Mommy Minivan ... decked out in our panties and our Pirate-themed ensemble.  Yes, we are the Panty Raiders!!  And, we rock.  THEY rock.  I received this awesome group shot from their team run in Madison last month.  Can't wait to reunite with some of them in June and meet many more of them for the first time as we begin our journey.

Power Brain Kids Book Review & Giveaway

Have you heard of Power Brain Education (HERE)? I hadn't either until recently.

The 5 Steps of Brain Education

Step 1: SensitizingBrain-oriented purpose: Awakening the body-brain sensesCommonly Reported Benefits: Physical health, enhanced focus and awareness

Step 2: VersatilizingBrain-oriented purpose: Making the brain more flexible and adaptableCommonly Reported Benefits: Enhanced adaptability and creativity, more resilient mindset

Step 3: RefreshingBrain-oriented purpose: Freeing one’s brain from negative memoriesCommonly Reported Benefits: Positive outlook, self confidence

Step 4: IntegratingBrain-oriented purpose: Integrating brain functions and unleashing potentialCommonly Reported Benefits: Balanced, smoother behavior and activity

Step 5: MasteringBrain-oriented purpose: Enhanced executive control and faculty of imaginationCommonly Reported Benefits: Realizing the power of choice and creation. Authorship of one’s life.All five steps use brain based learning to increase one's brain potential and overall well being.

I was contacted about the book, Power Brain Kids (HERE). In it, there are twelve lessons/chapters to help with everything from improving memory skills to helping kids with their concentration.

Little Diva and Little Dude are both antsy and lively little characters. They have difficulty sitting still, occupying themselves and shutting their brains "off" sometimes. I was told that children with these tendencies and ADHD benefited from the exercises with their parents and thought it wouldn't hurt to give it a read through.

Every child possesses a marvelously capable brain. It’s simply a matter of accessing and supporting the rich potential that lies beneath the surface. In Power Brain Kids, one of the newest books from international best-selling author Ilchi Lee, parents finally have a child-appropriate guide to Lee's world-renowned Brain Education (BE) method, which can help kids develop better concentration, improve memory skills and instill self-discipline.

Broken down into 12 easy lessons, each chapter focuses on a particular aspect of mental ability, including concentration, creativity, memory and emotional control. Through the book, straight-A and struggling students alike are challenged to create a genuinely happy and successful life.

Power Brain Kids features colorful design and full-color photography to help keep children interested and involved with the lessons. This book will keep you and your children interested from from the front cover to the back. The brain-building exercises and games, demonstrated by a group of Power Brain youngsters, will provide hours of constructive fun for parents and children, helping motivate kids to build flexibility and strength, both mentally and physically.

This book is a great way to get your children to interactive, get off the couch, get active and get out some of their jitters and restlessness before bedtime ... or anytime. It was also a great way to force us to turn off the computer, the tv and the computer games and to put off some things on our to do list.

Power Brain Kids is perfect for any teacher or parent of children ages 6-12. Little Diva and Little Dude are ages four and eight and it suited them perfectly. I do believe the older children and pre-teens will benefit more from the book. But, the little ones still can have some fun with it.

Power Brain Kids retails for $16.95 at www.amazon.com.

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

One lucky winner will win

a copy of
Power Brain Kids

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 Brain Education website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Power Brain Education 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 Friday, April 6.
Winner will be announced on Saturday, April 7.

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

Marley Coffee Product Review & Giveaway

I'm in LOVE with my morning cup of coffee (actually, usually two-three cups each morning). So, I was thrilled to hear from Marley Coffee (HERE) recently. I not only love the boost that a hot cup of caffeine gives me to get my day started. I also love the taste of a good, flavorful coffee.

Bob Marley always said he would return to farming one day. With Marley Coffee, Bob's son Rohan fulfills the dream. Rohan remembers his grandmother drying their wild coffee berries in the sun, then hulling and roasting them for her own cup of coffee each morning. Marley Coffee is determined to deliver that same intoxicating aroma and rich smooth flavor into every cup. Marley Coffee is an international gourmet coffee company founded by Rohan Marley and his friend Shane Whittle, sourcing beans from around the world, including Ethiopia, Central America and Jamaica. The beans from Jamaica are from a 52-acre private estate sits atop the Blue Mountains in Chepstowe, Portland, Jamaica, long revered as the region with the world's most desirable coffee beans. From the Marley's Jamaica Blue Mountain® coffee farm, to partner farms in Africa, Central America and other top coffee-growing regions worldwide, Marley Coffee strives to support communities and the environment through organic, sustainable and ethical practices.

With over 40,000 fans on Facebook, Marley Coffee is a very popular way to start your day!!!

Marley Coffee offers a variety of caffeinated and decaffeinated coffees on their website (HERE). The whole bean and ground varieties vary in strength and flavor. And, you HAVE to love the names of each variety! I was able to try out "One Love" (HERE) and "Get Up, Stand Up" (HERE). Buffalo Soldier and Simmer Down are some other fun coffee names they offer.

One Love:

One Love, one heart, 100% Ethiopia Yirgacheffe. From the birthplace of coffee, exotic floral and berry notes tantalize your palate. Brew an extra cup, and “Let’s get together and feel all right.”

Get Up, Stand Up:

This mild yet sweetly balanced blend is bright, floral and smooth with a hint of lemon grass on the finish. Get Up, Stand Up can start your day–and keep you Irie all day long!

As stated on the website, Get Up, Stand Up tasted a bit lighter. But, One Love was not too dark or too strong for my pallette (who prefers a lot of sweeteners in my coffee). I even iced the Get Up, Stand Up coffee one day and it tasted delicious.

Each of these 8 oz bags retails for $9.95 and are comparable to your supermarket brands. All of Marley Coffees come in a variety of bag sizes and price ranges. There is certainly something for everyone to enjoy and try out.

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

One lucky winner will win
Two Bags of
Marley Coffee

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

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

2 – Become a fan of Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

4 – Become a fan of Marley Coffee 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 Friday, April 6.
Winner will be announced on Saturday, April 7.

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

Leading Lady Sports Bra Review & Giveaway

I was recently sent a Yoga Bra from Leading Lady Bras (HERE). Leading Lady is one of the country's oldest and most successful intimate apparel manufacturers. They specialize in quality lingerie for mothers-to-be and new moms, as well as full-figure bras, sleep/leisure bras and other specialty lingerie and accessories.

Since I wasn't in need of a nursing bra and typically wear a medium or 36, I was sent their smallest size, a 38C, in the yoga bra style, which is intended for low impact workouts. I wore this for long walks on the beach as well as one sweaty eight miler along the ocean.

First off, I loved the Sports Bra (HERE), when it arrived in hot pink. This bra is made of cotton, is extremely soft and breathable and absorbent, though non-wicking. Not exactly intended for a super sweaty workout, but was comfortable nonetheless. This was my first EVER running session in JUST a sports bra. I felt comfortable, free and more feminine than ever. The straps were wide and didn't pinch, bulge or shift. I was forced to go up a size, since they are a "full figure" company, but it felt just fine and I felt "secure" during my run. I wouldn't typically wear a cotton bra (96% cotton; 4% spandex) for a long run, but it felt great to sweat on the beach. It's wire free ... as well as fuss free. This would be perfect for short runs, cooler weather, walking, yoga, group sports. It retails for $26.00 online.

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

One lucky winner will win a

Leading Lady Sports Bra

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

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

2 – Become a fan of Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

4 – Become a fan of Leading Lady 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 Friday, April 6.
Winner will be announced on Saturday, April 7.

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

Destination Running

I had a low-key road trip planned this past weekend to Schaumburg, Illinois. Not much planned for the weekend, in an area that has tons to do. No agenda ... other than to have some fun, do some shopping, enjoy some good eats (if you are ever in the area, you NEED to stop by Tokio Pub (HERE)!), and of course, to fit a run in.

I've visited Schaumburg dozens of times and have always noticed runners out on a local trail and a bike or two passing by, as I exit the interstate. When we arrived in town on Saturday afternoon, I decided to make a quick stop to see what was up. To my surprise, we had landed at the Busse Woods Trail System (HERE), a forest preserve, complete with 12 miles of paved trail through woods, lakes and even an elk pasture. Too cool.

The next morning, we returned to venture out for a nice, scenic run. And scenic, it was! We started at Higgins Road. There were several places to start your route at various parking lots, complete with ample restrooms (some weren't yet open for the season). There were gorgeous bridges, ponds, lakes, trees in bloom and ample mile markers on signs as well as painted on the well-kept winding trails. We ended up doing an out-and-back four mile loop. The portion of the path we ran was fairly flat and very scenic. This was so much better than running in the hotel gym.

There were organized groups of runners, fishermen, yoga in the park, and we were constantly passed by cycists and in-line-skaters. I would've felt safe even if I had been running by myself, during a long trainin grunning.

When I returned home, I was curious and looked up the trail system online. I was amazed at all of the trail systems in Cook County (HERE). I can't wait to check out more awesome running areas, the next time I head across the border to Illinois.

Destiniation running is so much fun.

(a special thanks to about-bicycles.com for some of these awesome photos, that I didn't have the opportunity to snap myself)

Run Like a Girl Book Review & Giveaway

I was recently contacted by the publicist for the book, Run Like a Girl: How Strong Women Make Happy Lives. You can check out the cool book and the related website (HERE).

The book retails for $16.95 and was written by Mina Samuels. I recently read the book on my flights to Florida and during some unusual downtime. It was nice to sit back, relax and read some humorous stories related to running and living an active lifestyle. The book covers dozens and dozens of women (from accomplished athletes and new runners) and their stories about how running and athletics changed their lives forever. I related to many of the stories; some I did not. But, they all gave me some insight into the history of athletics and how women have gained more and more options to choose what they want to do and how they want to live their lives. It really made me appreciate those strong, determined woment that paved the way for the rest of us to participate in athletics, build our confidence and give us the opportunity to set a good example for our children.

I enjoyed relating to stories of running in a running skirt for the first time ... and feeling athletic, strong, feminine and sexy all at the same time. Yes, it's possible! I loved reading about women who didn't enjoy their careers and found athletics and their passion become their outlet and eventually their career or motivated them to tranform other hobbies into a profitable outlet. I was motivated by stories of the young and the old, pushing themselves beyond what they ever thought was possible.

This book made me even more proud to be an athletic woman. Proud that I make happy choices for myself. For my children. And that woman around me have been inspired to do the same.

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

One lucky winner will win a copy of the book
Run Like a Girl: How Strong Women Make Happy Lives

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

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

2 – Become a fan of Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

3 – Visit the Run Like a Girl Book website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Run Like a Girl Book 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 Sunday, April 1st.
Winner will be announced on Monday, April 2nd.

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

Flirty Diva Tees - I Run So I Can Eat Cupcakes Review & Giveaway

Last month, I came across Flirty Diva Tees (HERE) online. WOW -- Linda, I, Running Diva Mom and Flirty Diva Tees were destined to be connected. For sure!


I immediately fell in love with the "I Run So I Can Eat Cupcakes" tee. OMG! I know that from reading many of your blog posts, you can agree with me here! This tee was perfect for me. And, I was scheduled (ahem, personally dragged my family in the rental car for a 20 minute dirve and bribed them with the last four cupcakes left on the cupcakery shelves, 30 minutes before closing!) to visit a cupcake shop in downtown St. Pete when I was down there in March.



Linda told me that the shirts fit pretty snug. And, since I'm a pretty curvy girl, I wasn't going to take that lightly. I typically wear a medium on top and opted for the size large, in black. The shirt was a ladies fit, snug, but not too snug. It was also just long enough. I hate tees that show my middle (even if it WAS tan), when I bend over. I wore it for a run one day and also one evening to the cupcake shop. It washed up well. The fabric was light and perfect for layering a tank underneath, but perfect for the warmer weather.

I love this shirt to pieces!!! But, I also love many of the other fun (and slightly inappropriate!) tees they have online. I NEED TO BUY MORE!!!

I RUN BECAUSE MY ASS AINT GONNA RUN ITSELF OFF (HERE)

SURVIVIN AND THRIVIN (HERE)

IF FOUND ON GROUND, DRAG ME TO THE FINISH LINE (HERE)

THIS IS NOT SWEAT, IT'S MY BODY CRYING (HERE)

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

One lucky winner will win
a Flirty Diva Tees
"I Run So I Can Eat Cupcakes"
(Size Large)

PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!

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

2 – Become a fan of Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

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

4 – Become a fan of Flirty Diva Tees 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, March 29th.
Winner will be announced on Friday, March 30th.

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

Spirit of the Marathon DVD Winner ....

I was recently given the opportunity to review Spirit of the Marathon on DVD. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Spirit of the Marathon online HERE and start shopping.

There were 65 entries in my recent giveaway on the RDM blog and Facebook page. One winner was chose at random to receive a copy of Spirit of the Marathon on DVD

Random.org chose ……..

Becca @
(Just) One Run Away
(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 ) ]

If you didn't win ... Purchase your copy of Spirit of the Marathon NOW (HERE) and enter "divamom" at checkout .. RECEIVE $2 OFF YOUR ORDER!!

6 Miles with my New Running Buddy 1,350 Miles Away

Before my trip to Florida, I put a call out on the Running Diva Mom Facebook Page (HERE), to see anyone out there would like to meet up with me for a run. Many of my "virtual friends" said that they were in Florida and were interested in meeting up. Yeah! Unfortunately, many of you that I connected with were either located hours north or on the wrong coast. Bummer!

I was happy, however, to connect with the sweet mommy of two, Jenny, from Run Hot Mama (HERE). Jenny lived about a half hour drive from my resort in St. Petersburg and was interested in meeting up with me for a run, half-way through my trip.

(Jenny is just starting to regularly post to her blog ... please stop by and say "hi"!)

We met up on Tuesday morning. She was going to be kid-free that morning and it was goin to be WARM! My dad drove me in our rental car up to John's Pass (HERE) and I met Jenny half way in between our locations. I had already visited John's Pass earlier in our trip and was familiar with the scenic area. I was excited to explore on foot.

Jenny and I posed for a quick photo before we were off for three miles out and three miles back. We ran along Gulf Road and some of the busy, touristy areas, then into a quieter residential area ... before we turned around and headed back. We detoured towards the ocean, where there was a nice pedestrian path. It was perfect, because you were running near the ocean, had the view, but didn't need to run in the sand.

The sun was beating down. It was SUPER hot, super humid, and there was little shade. We stopped once to get some water and use the restroom and opted for a couple of necessary walking breaks. The salt was in my eyes (mascara not smeared!), my eyes were burning.

We headed up the bridge to John's Pass, to finish our run. It was completely crazy how steep those bridges are ... very deceiving. Jenny asked if my area was hilly at home. She joked that in flat Florida, runners use the bridges and overpasses for hill work. I can believe it!

Jenny and I covered a lot of ground and conversation during our one hour run. It's amazing to me, how I didn't know her a bit and we were covering everything from all-female races to open school enrollment to bikini waxing on our six-ish mile run. It just goes to prove: If you're a woman, a mother, a runner ... you WILL always have something to talk about. I love how womanhood bonds us. I love how motherhood connects us. I love how running brings it all together.

26.2 Miles on my Feet in St. Pete

RDM has been MIA for a the last week or so. I took a well-deserved break from blogging, break from work, break from the Wisconsin winter and a break from life. I headed south, to the shoreline of St. Petersburg, Florida for six days of R&R. My parents took my sister and I on my first adults-only vacation and my first family trip with my family since I was a teenager. Even though I only have Little Dude and Little Diva 50% of the time now, this would be twice as long as I have ever been without either of them. It was hard for me. But, I was able to make the most of my time away.

Of course, I packed my running shoes and a couple of cute running outfits. Even though I didn't have the little ones to wake me up every day, I still rose quite early to watch the sun rising over the ocean. I'd grab a Starbuck's with mom and/or dad and we'd walk the shoreline for 2-4 miles, picking up seashells and chatting. They'd head back to sit poolside and sunbathe. I'd grab my handheld water bottle and head back to the shoreline to log a few miles.

The shoreline we were on was about four miles in length. So, I could run up to 8 miles easily. My runs varied from 3-8 miles every morning. It was so hot and humid and I was so glad to have my water bottle with me, because sometimes I was running between 11am-1pm and the Florida sun was beating down on me ... hard. I'd stop at the various resorts on the beach and fill up and the head back out for a few more miles. I enjoyed expoloring various shorelines, piers, running paths with nice 1/2 mi mile markers. There were hundreds of people out walking and running every morning and I'd see many of the same people over and over each morning.

It was nice running the hard, compact sand on the shoreline, untile the tide came in. I was constantly dodging the waves (not wanting to get my new Karhus ruined). Seashells were crunching under my feet. I zig-zagged through families building sandcastles. I ran without music and listened to the waves, the birds, the reggae music playing at the resorts, and the fun that everyone was having under the hot Florida sun.

I even headed to John's Pass to meet up with Jenny, a local St. Pete blogger, one morning (more on that later!!). It was a blast to explore a new city on foot like that.

I would return to the pool, change into my swimsuit, usually catch a healthy lunch poolside or on the beach, and catch some rays until the sun went down.

By the end of the 5 short days that I was actually in St. Pete ... I ran a total of 26.2 miles. On the last day, I decided I better run a 10K (6.2 miles), so that I could say I literally ran an entire marathon while I was on vacation ... a marathon on the beach nonetheless!

This was MY kind of vacation, my kind of R&R ... a great mix of being active, chilling out, and re-connecting with those I love.

Hot (Sweaty) Mamas Book Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review the book, Hot (Sweaty) Mamas. You can read all about my fabulous
experience HERE.

Please visit Hot (Sweaty) Mamas online HERE and start shopping.

There were 42 entries in my recent giveaway on the RDM blog and Facebook page. One winner was chose at random to receive a copy of Hot (Sweaty) Mamas.

Random.org chose ……..

Amy E @
Finding Amy ... Again
(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 ) ]

Spirit of the Marathon Movie Review & Giveaway

Back in 2008, I watched a screening of Spirit of the Marathon (HERE). The documentary featured six athletes through their training and comnpletion of the Chicago Marathon. Having only run one half marathon and several 5Ks at that point, I still didn't feel like a "runner" and was surrounded by athletes laughing at "inside jokes" and sporting technical gear for a night-out. I had been developing my love for the sport, but still didn't feel like I was 100% a "running groupy". The documentary was moving, gave me goosebumps and inspired me to sign up for the 2008 Chicago Marathon the next morning, my first. Fast forward four years and I've run about 30 half marathons and four full marathons. I am now a "runner". Yes, this movie changed my life!!

I recently signed up for the 2012 Chicago Marathon, before the 45,000 spots sold out in just a few days. I am looking forward to going back to where it all started for me. So, when I was contacted by the producers of the Spirit of the Marathon, I was thrilled to work together to review the movie.

About Spirit of the Marathon:

Four years in the making, Spirit of the Marathon is
the collaborative effort of three-time Academy Award winner Mark Jonathan Harris, Telly Award winner and director/marathoner Jon Dunham and producer/marathoner Gwendolen Twist.

It is the first film to capture the story, drama and ultimate essence of the legendary 26.2 mile running event. Filmed globally in North
America, Europe, Africa and Asia, the movie brings together a diverse cast of amateur athletes and marathon luminaries.

As six unique stories unfold, each runner prepares for and
ultimately faces the challenge of the Chicago Marathon. More than a sports
movie, Spirit of the Marathon is an inspirational journey of
perseverance and personal triumph; a spectacle that will be embraced by runners
and non-runners alike.

Be sure to watch the moving movie trailer online (HERE).

You can read about all of the athletes (HERE). I enjoyed watching everyone's four month journey through training and 2-6+ hour journey through the marathon itself. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just a beginner, you will thoroughly enjoy this movie. It covers all aspects of training, nutrition, and frustration from Olympians and Couch to 5K runners.

I got goosebumps, again, watching this movie!!! If it hadn't been after 11:00 pm when I finished it, I probably would have hopped on the treadmill! I enjoyed relating to the stories of a couple balancing their life with a young child, both of them marathoners. The comedy of an older gentleman who inspires and amazes folks with every finish line he crosses.

But, my favorite story to follow was Leah. I didn't identify with her story the first time I watched the movie, but now found her story especially touching and could relate as she shed tears and crossed the finish line.

Leah Caille - First-Time Marathoner:
Picking-up the pieces from her crumbled marriage-A period
in which she subsequently lost fitness and gained weight-Leah Caille found herself at an all-time low. Now a single mother to her seven-year-old daughter Adelaide, Leah started on the path to health and happiness by joining Chicago Endurance Sports' "Learn to Run" program. After completing her first 5k, she went on to dramatically improve her fitness, which led to several more successful races before she decided to take on the ultimate challenge by training for and running the Chicago Marathon.

Did you know that Spirit of the Marathon II is in production??

"Spirit of the Marathon II" - the sequal - is now in production! The filme will feature the stores of an entirely new cast of runners from first-time marathoners to the world's elite all running the Rome Marathon!

Their journey takes them through 26.2 miles of Rome's most visually stunning streets and awe inspiring landmarks, including the ancient Colosseum. Many of the world's greates marathon runners will provide commentary during the movie, as you follow each athlete's journey through training and Rome. You will also gain further knowledge of the marathon and how it came to be.

Stay tuned on Running Diva Mom for more information on production, release and showings of Spirit of the Marathon II!!!

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

One lucky winner will win

a copy of Spirit of the Marathon

on DVD

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 Spirit of the Marathon website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Spirit of the 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 Friday, March 16th.
Winner will be announced on Saturday, March 17th.

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

Laura Elaine Designs Running Scrapbook Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review a Runner's Race Bib Book from
Laura Elaine Designs. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Laura Elaine Designs online HERE and start shopping.

There were 41 entries in my recent giveaway on the RDM blog
and Facebook page. One winner was chose
at random to receive a Runner's Race Bib Book from Laura Elaine Designs.

Random.org chose ……..

Momma Got the Runs
(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 ) ]