Giveaway Winners ....

I was recently given the opportunity to review several producs from some great companies.  You can read all about my fabulous experiences at the links below.

Please visit them online and start shopping.

One winner was chose at random to receive the following items:

Random.org chose ……..

Bani Bands
Review (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner - Run Kayla, Run! (HERE)

Yurbuds
Review (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner - Shannon @ I Run Read Teach (HERE)

We Are Girls Who Love To Run Books
Review (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner - Frickin Fabulous at 40 (HERE)

Endorphin Warrior Training Bracelet
Review (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner - Pretty Cupcakes (HERE)

Playmaker Nutrition Vitamins
Review (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner - Moonsword (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 ) ]

Sun Prairie Fall 2012 Couch to 5K Race Report: Jingle Bell Run 2012

During the first week of October, I met sixteen ladies to start on their 5K journey.  Some had ran in high school, same had run a 5K or two in the past - but most had never ran.

 

Fast forward nine weeks - and 18 group runs - and 13 or the 16 ladies have finished the program.  With their sites on the Jingle Bell Run 5K in Madison on December 8, we ran all of the program in the dark and then the cold.  We even ran the course together in the week leading up to the race.  We had our pasta dinner and final run together on Thursday evening.  Thank you, Market Street Diner, for the tasty pasta dinner and cake.  And the group even surprised me with this thoughtful card and awesome gifts.  I finally have my own Running Diva Mom Bondi Band.  Can't wait to wear it!

 

 

The race didn't start until 10:30, near the Henry Vilas Zoo.  I carpooled with Jolene to the race.  I thought we would have to park far away.  But, the crowd wasn't as large as I imagined - there was parking everywhere.  Oh well, Jolene and I got a little warm-up walk in.  We met up with the rest of the group at 10:00 and talked race strategy, took some photos - we really worked the camera.  After a long line at the port-a-potty - we were OFF - just ten minutes after the 10K started.

 

 

 

The path behind Edgewood College was extremely congested.  There were tons of kids that were dodging all of the other runners; nearly tripping them.  Then we braced ourselves for the huge hill in front of us.  It was helpful that they already ran the course and knew that there was one large hill during the first mile and another at the end. 

 

I ran back and forth during whole race - between all thirteen runners.  Some struggled, some didn't.  I gave them the same pep talk that I gave them during the past nine weeks.  Run your race.  Run your pace. Don't try and keep up with everyone else.  Just do your thing.  Listen to your breathing and your feet will follow.  And most importantly - Enjoy yourself. 

 

Everyone finished between 30-45 - just as expected.  There were lots of smiles and laughs all around.  This was such a fun group to train with.  I hope that they all keep in touch and keep up with the running - because many of them secretly enjoyed the punishment.  Just look at these beaming smiles! ....

 

Congratulations ...

 

Falicia

Amy

Deb

Ronni

Pam

Marcia
Stephanie W

Stephanie P
Ginger
Beth
Jenny
Ann
Jolene

 

Playmaker Nutrition Multivitamins Review & Giveaway

The kids received some samples of Playmaker Nutrition (HERE) Sugar Free Multivitamins.  Little Dude is faithful with taking his multivitamins daily. 

 

Playmaker Nutrition has developed innovative nutritional products that help supplement the unique dietary needs of active and athletic children and young adults.  Playmaker Nutrition products have been formulated to meet the approval of our world-class ambassador athletes. Their great tasting products do not contain corn syrup or gelatin, and include sugar-free and vegan formulations.

 

Cool.

 

 

The sugar-free multivitamins retail for $13.99 online (HERE).  This is just slightly above what we pay at the local pharmacy or discount store.  Not too bad.  

 

* SUGAR FREE
* VEGAN GUMMY VITAMINS
* SIX NATURAL FRUIT FLAVORS
* GELATIN FREE
* DELIVERS ESSENTIAL VITAMINS AND NUTRIENTS
* MAY SUPPORT ENERGY
* MAY BOOST CARDIOVASCULAR FUNCTION

 

Little Dude loves chewable, gummy vitamins and had no complaints about these.  He knew they were something new, but didn't complain about them being different than the character vitamins that I normally purchase.  He liked all six flavors - even grapefruit.  It is recommended that children 8 yrs and up take two daily.  Little Dude took 1 daily and shared the rest with Little Diva.  Little Dude hopes that taking his vitamins daily will help him be as strong as the Big Dude on the bottle.

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One lucky winner will win
a bottle of
Playmaker Nutrition Vitamins

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 Playmaker Nutrition website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Playmaker Nutrition 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, December 16.

[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.]

Kona Kase Review

A couple of months ago, I received this cool, orange box at my front door.  It is a Kona Kase (HERE).  Kona Kase's ship on the 15th of every month for a $15 monthly membership fee.  Each month you receive a different assortment of goodies for your training - energy bars, energy gels, sports drinks- you name it.

 

 

I received a variety of items in my Kona Kase.  Some I had tried before and some I had not.  I liked them all, except I wasn't a fan of FRS drinks before - so I didn't even try those.  I think it would be fun to get an assortment of different things every month - you never know what you may enjoy.  But, like me - there may be a thing or two that you won't like at all.  I guess you could donate them to your running buddies or use them as stocking stuffers for your endurance athlete friends.  Just like your kids, though, it's good to try something new.

Check out Kona Kase (HERE) and on Facebook (HERE).  Check back on RDM in a couple of months for a fun giveaway - perfect - just in time for you to hit your training hard again in the spring!

Endorphin Warrior Training Bracelet Review & Giveaway

I was recently introduced to Endorphin Warrior (HERE) - man - was I missing out!  Their site is filled with tons of motivational pieces and great gift items.  There are tons of great stocking stuffers for the athlete in your life.  Or give a gift to yourself.  Do you know of a friend suffering from a life-change or illness?  The Endorphin Warrior products would be a great way to let them know that you are thinking of them - and that they will get passed the challenge in their life.

Endorphin Warrior also sells running jewelry, apparel, rings, tees - or give a gift certificate for the holidays.

I was asked to review the Warrior Training Bracelets (HERE).  I chose the saying, "Persevere" - I thought that suits me best.  There were many different sizes and I chose 7.5.  It fits me perfectly.  It is perfect for training, casual wear, or even to the office.  I love matching the brown leather wristband with my brown leather boots for fall.  And, the bracelet just makes me HAPPY looking down at it on my wrist.  That's enough in itself.  The bracelets sell for $20 online and are a great gift for the holidays, or a gift for yourself - because you deserve it!

Product description:

Made to wear while working out...but great to wear all of the time. Featuring this empowering keyword: PERSEVERE.

Steel your focus: Our Warrior Training Bracelets are designed to wear while running, cycling, working out, sweating, racing - or all day long - to help you train, perform and live with greater strength of body and mind. Let the power of PERSEVERE steel your focus...to help you train harder, improve performance, achieve your goals, overcome challenges and live stronger.

Product specifications: Nickel-plated metal tag riveted to a 5/8"-wide, natural-leather wristband. With snap closure for easy on and off. Available in 5 sizes to accommodate all wrist sizes for women and men.

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

One lucky winner will win an
Endorphin Warrior Bracelet

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 Endorphin Warrior website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Endorphin Warrior 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, December 13.

[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.]

We Are Girls Who Love to Run Book Review & Giveaway

A few years ago, I worked with Brianna Grant, to review her book, "We are Girls Who Love to Run".  You can visit the website (HERE) and the book is available on Amazon.com.  Two years late, I'm sharing it with you again.

We Are Girls Who Love to Run uses running to inspire girls to build healthy habits and achieve goals. Vibrant watercolor illustrations celebrate real girls with different body styles who find satisfaction in daily life experiences. The characters display their inner strengths as they make simple healthy choices and interact with family and friends.

A sports book specifically designed for girls, We Are Girls Who Love to Run speaks to girls of all fitness levels, from the curious observer-turned-participant to the driven competitor. It celebrates the multiple elements of girlhood that connect to form the whole girl: family life, friendships, emotions, fitness, goal-setting, relaxation, and curiosity. It acknowledges girls’ spirits and applauds their fortitude in believing in themselves.

Well, last week - I was the Myster Guest at Little Diva's school.  I had to talk about something that made our family different that others or family traditions.  I chose to talk about how my family got rid of cable tv last year - and the other activities that we do together instead.  I spoke about visiting the library every Friday afternoon after school, our annual state park pass, geocaching and treasure hunting - and of course, running!  I shared Little Diva's recent Girls on the Run medal, when she finished her 5K.  And, then I had to read the class a book, related to my topic.  I chose "We are Girls Who Love to Run" - because it encompasses it all - and just like her classmates noted, the girls in the book ARE Little Diva.  Her sparkly, outgoing personality, her imagination, her willingness to help others, her determination and commitment to her activities.  I really enjoyed sharing the book with her classmates.

Brianna wants you to share this book with your school, you child's classmates, your favorite charity or organization.  Who do you want to share a whole case of this book with?  A local children's hospital??  Your son/daughter's school library??  Your local Girls on the Run program??  Please share.

Don't forget to order your signed copy for the holidays!!!  These would make great gifts for your daughter.  Visit the website (HERE) for more information. 

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


One lucky winner will win a case of books
We Are Girls Who Love to Run
to give to their favorite organization/school/charity

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 We Are Girls Who Love to Run website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of We Are Girls Who Love to Run 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, December 13.

[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.]

Movin' and a Groovin'

I haven't been posting often, because, well ... I've been busy!  Busy, busy, busy!!

When I haven't been fortunate to have time with the kids, I've been working, coaching and spending time with my fabulous Boyfriend.  I only ran 65.8 miles last month.  That is only HALF of my typical monthly investment.  But, I honestly ran quite often.  I spent a lot of my "free" time coaching others on their journy.  I ran often - but only short distances. Or, I ran with friends.  I think I only ran once on my own in November.  Quite interesting - since two years ago I ONLY ran by myself.

My feet haven't been the only things moving.  My family has also been on the move.  We recently moved into a new home and the kids now both have their own rooms.  Front porch swing. Raspberry bushes.  Green space.  No shared walls.  A dream.  It already feels like home - plastered with family photos with smiling faces and motivational quotes.  What a blessing.  It's been great having the extra space for all of us.  And we are in close proximity to a gym.  It's going to be a great outlet for our family.

I had a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.  A new home, two loving children who are both doing very well in school, a great career, thriving business - and now the most fabulous boyfriend ever.  It's now been a year since we first met.  Though distance and circumstances initially tried to keep us apart, we ended up where we needed to be - Together.  He's been so supportive and encouraging over the past year and I cannot thank him enough.  He's supported my running so much that he took it up himself, ran his first half marathon, and is now going to be leading his own men's couch to 5K group, starting in January.

I was recently connected with Michelle.  We've worked in the same building for over a decade, but had only communicated electronically.  She started training for a local half marathon last season and read one of my race reports online.  And BAM! - discovered me - and realized that it was me.  We connected via email and now are running buddies.  My life is so weird sometimes. I am so blessed.  We've been trying to run together once a week, for the past couple of months.  We've been blessed with some warm, sunny afternoons to share a 3-4 mile jaunt around the UW Campus. 

I recently became a Handful Ambassador (HERE).  I can't say enough about their flattering styles.  If you haven't checked out their sports bras, you should.  They will be a great addition to your active lifestyle.

Yurbuds for Women Review & Giveaway

I love my Yurbuds (HERE)!!!!  They are awesome.  I now have them in pink, black, purple and red.  Don't you love the fun purple pair that I was recently sent?  Now I ALMOST have a pair to go with every running outfit.

The ultrasoft silicone covers are super comfortable and help keep the headphones in place.  And the sound quality is often.  I blast my tunes when I want; or turn them down when I want to feel the crowd support at a big event.  The sound is great regardless.

Prices range from $29.99 - $59.99 online.  And, I'm seeing them in more and more stores recently.

I can HONESTLY say, that Yurbuds are one of the best gifts you can give a runner that enjoys running with music.  These would make a great stocking stuffer.  Avoid those cute, cheap headphones at your local stores and splurge on some Yurbuds.  They are worth it.  I wear these running, walking or even around the house when I'm cleaning and don't want the kids to hear the lyrics to my rap music!!  They stay in all the time - through tugging, downpour and extreme sweat.  I've worn them for training runs - short and long - even the Chicago Marathon!  NEVER had a problem.

I also received the Inspire for Women Sport Earphones.  They are a smaller sized earphone, speicfically designed for female athletes.  I personally didn't notice a difference from the usual Yurbuds.  They were just as comfortable and the sound quality was just as great.  They are offered in red.  These would also be great for young female athletes - I look forward to sharing them with Little Diva.

In the package, I also received a sweet Yurbuds sweat towel and Yurbuds Sweaty Band.

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

One lucky winner will win a
Pair of Yurbuds
Inspire for Women Sport Earphones

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

4 – Become a fan of Yurbuds 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, December 13.

[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.]

Bani Bands Review & Giveaway

Chances are, you have heard of Bondi Bands ... but, have you heard of Bani Bands (HERE)?  I hadn't until they contacted me this fall.

Bani Bands were created, because the owner couldn't find headbands that fit her head properly and didn't give her pain or headaches.  The headbands are adjustable so they are truly a one-size-fits-all product. They adjust small enough to fit a toddler and large enough to fit a person with a head up to 22" circumference. I have a big noggin and they fit me just fine.

I tend not to like the thinner headbands, because of my wide forhead.  I prefer the wide headbands because of this.  I tried a wider Bani Band and a sparkly, thinner one as well.  I prefer to wear these with my hair up in a pony tail.  If you have a different hairstyle, they may look fine with your hair down.  But, I find that my mop just flops around.

Bani Bands are sold in all widths, patterns and textures.  They range from plain colors to animal prints to polka dots.  I love the sequins headbands that come in so many colors.  They even have sport-specific styles.  I love this 13.1 headband (HERE). 

At $8-12 they are a cheap investment in your running wardrobe.  And they are a great way to personalize your gear.

These would make really great gifts for your running buddy this holiday season.  Or, they would make great stocking stuffers for your active, little girl at home.  They are perfect for all sports, dance, gymnastics, or just casual wear to school.

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


One lucky winner will win a
Bani Band

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 Bani Bands website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Bani Bands 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, December 13.
[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.]

Winter Couch to 5K & Training Opportunities

There are a number of Couch to 5K and coaching opportunities starting this winter!  Don't miss out .... What a great way to continue training through the Wisconsin winter!  And, I am coaching them all .....

Catalyst Activewear (HERE)
Madison, Wisconsin
Co-Ed Couch to 5K

Starts January 16 for Nine Weeks
Wednesdays at 5:30 PM

Training for Shamrock Shuffle 5K on March 17.

Stop by Catalyst or call:  608-819-6433 to register

Sun Prairie Rec Program (HERE)
Sun Prairie, Wisconsin

Ladies Couch to 5K (coached by Jamie)
Mens Couch to 5K (coached by Joel)

Starts January 15 for Nine Weeks
Tuesdays at 6:00 PM
Training for Shamrock Shuffle 5K on March 17.
Register online (HERE)
(These programs typically sell out in 1-2 days!)

Monona Rec Program (HERE)
Monona, Wisconsin
Ladies Couch to 5K

Starts March 6 for Nine Weeks
Wednesdays at 5:30 PM
Training for Lake Monona 5K on May 4
Register online (HERE)

Co-Ed 10K Training Program
Sun Prairie and Madison, Wisconsin
Coached by Jamie and Joel

Starts January 22 for Twelve Weeks
Tuesdays at 7:00 PM
Training for American Cancer Society 10K on April 13

Register by Emailing me at runningdivamom@yahoo.com

(must be able to run 30 mins at first session)

Not from the Madison-area and are interested in a custom training program? ......

RDM Virtual Coaching and Training Programs

Includes: custom training program (5K, 10K, half marathon or full marathon) and information folder (includes information on stretching, hydration, routes, discounts at local retailers and on products); weekly check-ins and motivation via email and text over entire nine to twelve week program

IF YOU ARE INTERSTED, all you need to do is fill out my custom training program questionnaire that will help me customize your program for YOU and around your life!

Register by emailing me at runningdivamom@yahoo.com

Giveaway Winners ....

I was recently given the opportunity to review several great products and experiences.  You can read all about my fabulous experiences below.

Please visit their sites online and start shopping.

Random.org chose ……..

Chicago Museum of Science & Industry Family PackReview (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner - Autumn in WI (no blog)

Kidz Bop Christmas CDReview (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner - West Family @ These are the Days (HERE)

Handana
Review (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winner - Andrea @ Fit Life Run (HERE)

ShwingsReview (HERE)
Website (HERE)
Winners -
Kasey @ Stitch Bake Run (HERE)
and Jill R (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 ) ]

Monona Couch to 5K Race Report: Berbee Derby 2012

This fall, I was privileged to expand my coaching services to Monona.  The Monona Rec Program (HERE) had a very successful inaugural Couch to 5K group.  We started with sixteen ladies from surrounding areas in September and primarily met at Winnequah Park in Monona on Wednesday evenings.  We also opted to train on Olbrich path for short, flat out-and-back routes.  With the time change in early-November, we quickly lost daylight and were running in the dark - complete with glow bracelets, blinky lights and new reflective gear.  We even navigated our way through the VERY dark route in Fitchburg one week before race day.  We lost a few ladies along the way - due to injury, illness or being unable to fit the meeting time into their personal schedule. 

Twelve ladies participated in the Berbee Derby 5K (HERE) on Thanksgiving morning.  Nine of the ladies are pictured above.  These ladies not only fit nine weeks of training into their busy schedules - as moms, wives and career women - they also reserved Thanksgiving morning to run a race!  Some of them even ran local 5Ks before the group's event, to test out the distance.

We had a snaphew in obtaining the team shirts at our pasta party from Angelo's the night prior - but I had drove back to Monona after making some phone calls. And, I had them for distribution on race morning.

The race started at 9:15 AM (after the start of the 10K).  We met up at 8:45 and parking was an issue, crowds were crazy in the port-o-potty line and packet pick up lines were long, but moving.  Many of the ladies opted to take advantage of early packet pick up the evenings prior.

We used the port-o-potties after the start of the 10K race - the lines were then cleared out.  And we met towards one of the last corrals - opting to pace ourselves.  The weather was perfect - sunny and a forecast of around sixty degrees.

The National Anthem was sung and their spirits were high, as we started across the start line and their timing chips started.  Their support of family and friends speckled the start of the race course, onto Fish Hatchery Road.  We enjoyed the closing of one side of the major roadway, as we then ventured to the DNR and towards the Capital City Trail - and some steep hills.  I ran back and forth with the twelve ladies and did some of the hills twice.  It was fun seeing them get so excited, smile, and hold conversation the entire time.  I ran into some familiar faces along the way - some former clients.

By the end of the race - many were finishing faster than our practice race - partially due to the lack of traffic and crossing traffic - but primarily due to their motivation, determination and enthusiasm for race day morning.  Everyone finished between 30-45 minutes and went home to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday with their families - and have an extra slice of pie or helping of mashed potatoes.

I will be coaching with the Monona Rec Program again, starting in early-March 2013 - finishing with the Lake Monona 5K in May.