Lift Your Sole Jewelry Product Review

I love nothing better than when two of my passions (in this instance: running and fashion) collide. Lift Your Sole offers some awesome, unique pieces. You can check them out here.

Jill maintains her business out of Atlanta, Georgia and has so many neat pieces available on her website -- from running, triathlon, walking, yoga -- including marathon, half-marathon and mommy-specific pieces.

I instantly fell in love with this gorgeous cuff they sent me. It arrived in this great mesh bag, which made opening up the package even more fun.

The cuff is light and great to wear with casual wear on the weekends when I'm bumming around town in one of my marathon mommy t-shirts or to work with something more dressy. The message, "A fit woman is a powerful woman" is so inspiring to me.

The cuff has held up well and is super light and comfortable. I hate nothing more than typing with a bangle bumping up and down on the keyboard. It has held up well. Sometimes, I notice wear on my silver bracelets after a few wears (I must have extremely acidic skin or something?), but this thing has held up nicely!

There are so many pieces that call out to me on the website. I simply couldn't choose what to review. Don't you think?!

When I visited the Disney Princess Half Marathon Expo recently, Lift Your Sole had a booth their and I enjoyed browsing (more than enjoyed!). I was surprised to see some really cool (totally me!) items there, that I didn't know they offered ... animal print 13.1 and 26.2 travel mugs, magnets, keychains and these really cute purses. Check out the cool purses here.

You will have the chance to win this beautiful MARATHON MOM NECKLACE this weekend, in my upcoming HUGE giveaway .... stay tuned ....

They also offer really neat running apparel. I really want to snag this Marathon Mom T-Shirt here

Front: "Motherhood. The Ultimate Endurance Sport."

Back: "Marathon Mom. Being a Mom is Like Running a Marathon Everyday."

The thing that I REALLY liked about Lift Your Sole and their products is that everything is AFFORDABLE!! We all spend so much on running shoes, technical wear and nutrition for our training, that it is really nice to find something fun and affordable to express our love for the sport ... and look cute doing it!

Stay tuned ... and become a FOLLOWER ... for the HUGE GIVEAWAY!!!

Today's Running Ramblings & Blog Award

A HUGE thank you to Alee at Love Is ... for sending the "I Love Your Blog" award my way.

I'd like to pass this along to a few of you lovely bloggers that I recently found and am enjoying. I really enjoy your ramblings and your journey ... even if I'm not a regular commenter! ;-)

Disney Daddy

Domestic Princess in Training

Fashion Meets Food

Former Fat Mama

Rock Star Mom

Running with Boys

Skinny Me Coming Soon

That Pink Girl

I really got interested in the bloggy world last Fall and realized how connected the online running community really was. At that time, I came across a local blogger, Chelsea from Early Runner. I've been following her running journey for quite a few months now and it was nice to relate to someone that hates winter in Wisconsin just as much as myself! Although she is a transplant from Florida and I have lived here all of my life, I really, really hate our long winters! And I've learned to hate them even more since I took up running as such a passion in my life. Well, last week via email conversation ... I learned that we work right across the street from eachother!!! HA -- too crazy?! So, today we met up in the Atrium at work for a brown bag lunch. It was really nice to chat about the online running community, local races and goals we both had. I really hope that we can meet up at one of the local races sometime soon.

$5 Race --- SIGN ME UP!!

Hubby discovered this local race that has only a $5 entry fee. Sweet, sign me up! I love that we both have been training enough that we can just sign up for a 10 mile race on a whim!!! I'm not expecting a fancy event or anything. But, I will be thinking of it as a faster, mid-distance training run. It will also be nice race with my hubby again.

This Blows my Mind .... Small Bloggy World

I got a surprise email this morning from someone that stumbled across my blog and my Disney Princess Half Marathon Race Report. Elik emailed me and said that we had a brief conversation that cold, early morning. Apparently, he was one of the very few men running the race and he was the one that encouraged me and my family to huddle up with him and some others next to the warm generator that was blowing warm air that frigid morning. He knew it was me, because we muttered (with our chattering teeth), "Eh, this is nothing -- we're from Wisconsin." What a small world??!!

Anyhow, the nice dude also emailed me my race photos -- how cool is that??!! I was ecstatic!

Start Line outside of Epcot at 6:00 AM

Start of Race

Still had my gel packet in hand;
I must have been on my way to the Magic Kingdom
Looking focused and heading towards that pretty castle.

Exiting Cinderella's Castle (around mile 6), one of my favorite moments although I look like I'm struggling; I believe I was mostly struggling to hold the tears back and not make a fool of myself.

And, I really love how the Running Skirts fit, but the nutrition in my pocket really does make for some unflattering bulges, to say the least!!

Heading down the highway from Magic Kingdom to Epcot (I believe mile 10?)

Trying to muster a wave to the photographer.

Heading from the Epcot Globe to the World Showcase turnaround.

Feeling happy that this thing is almost over (about mile 12.5)

Heading to the finish line and trying to speed up to reach it;
seeing Mickey and Minnie straight ahead

D-O-N-E with my Magical Journey

Official Finisher's Photo
w/ my bling in hand

All of the gorgeous medals

Blingy Medal of Accomplishment

Little Diva's Homework -- How to Run a Race

Once a month, Little Diva's teacher sends home a packet of her written work from kindergarten. Usually they are story boards and now they've expanded into How-To stories. They are able to sound out and spell out the words as they hear them. It is so fun and exciting to read your six year old's thoughts. Even though every word isn't spelt out correctly, I can almost always figure out what she is trying to say.

So, when she wrote "How to Run a Race" recently, it made us laugh and brought tears to my eyes. She journaled about her race at Walt Disney World and listed as the things you need: start line, finish line, race. I love the balloon arch she drew at the finish line and the princess tiara on her head!!

How to Run a Race

You Need:
Start Line

Finish Line

Race

First you wait for the race to start.

Then you wait for the horn.

Then you run the race.

Then you go to the finish line.

This assignment is definitely going in her keepsake bin!!! I love this deeply. :-)

I can only hope that future assignments will include:

How to make my bed and How to be nice to my little brother.

PRODUCT REVIEWS during my 18 mile journey & GU GIVEAWAY

Today was my first long run of my marathon training, since I just finished my first half marathon of the year and incorporated my half-training into my full-training. It snowed two days ago and I figured that I would be stuck on the treadmill in our basement for three hours today, but I was wrong (Don't tell my hubby that I admitted I was wrong about something!!).

The forecast was for 49 degrees or so and the snow was melted. I decided to do my run in the afternoon instead of the morning, so that I had the sunshine and the warmer temperature on my side. I hate wearing pants to run in. As you can see (from the photo below in Little Diva's room) that the sun was shining bright at 1pm. I was about to head out and Little Dude didn't like that I mixed things up a bit and was running in the afternoon (when he was more attached to me later in the day). The tear running down his cheek make me feel guilty, but I knew it was nap time and that his Grandpa was coming over to visit --- he would be fine. He really was trying to convince me to take the jogging stroller out ... but there is no way I can push that over 18 miles, with a 35 lb chunker inside!

I wore my IRUNLIKEAGIRL long sleeve technical top and a pair of shorts and Recovery Socks. It was perfect for the weather. Sometimes I regret wearing a long-sleeve top when I'm out there and start to feel sufficated. This shirt is so light that it just felt like I was running out there in my sports bra (something I will NEVER do -- those stretch marks will never see daylight!). The shirt killed the breeze but wasn't heavy and I loved it. I've worn it a few times and am thankful that I picked it up at an expo for $10 this winter.

I headed out and the weather was fantastic. I didn't hydrate well before I left. The water fountains at the parks aren't "open" yet, since it's still technically winter and the bathrooms aren't open either. I did a zig-zag loop around my neighborhood and the surrounding neighborhood and got nine miles in before heading home. I stopped to use the restroom quick and popped a Mint Chocolate Gu and some Powerade Zero that were waiting out next to my garage door. That Gu was the most fabulous tasting gel I've ever tried. At a mere 100 calories, it was heaven!!! I love Girl Scout thin mint cookies and shamrock shakes from McDonald's. This was the absolute best gel I've ever tried. The consistency went down well and I got a great surge within a few minutes. The size of the packet wasn't as large and as filling as the e-gels that I usually train with. But, the taste was satisfying.

I headed back out on the neighborhood path and to the neighborhood park and then tried out the new path that was finished last fall, that connects our neighborhood to a shopping area. How exciting to run over the new path and bridge. Over the second nine miles I popped a jet blackberry Gu with 2x caffeine. This really gave me a jolt, but I really didn't enjoy it as much as the mint chocolate version. Whether my tastebuds enjoyed it as much or not, it really did the trick. My feet were starting to hurt and the inside of my right foot was rubbing (slight blister now), but the gu carried me back to my mailbox, where I stopped to down the rest of my Powerade Zero and a bottle of water.

I really had a wonderful first long run of the season and enjoyed trying out the gu gels. I've heard so much about the Gu Chomps and hope to give them a try, too.

Enter for your chance to win EIGHT GU GELS
4 - pineapple

2 - vanilla bean

1 - mint chocolate

1- jet blackberry

Here's how you can win ... please post a comment for each entry, thanks!!

1 - You MUST be a follower -- leave me a a comment, thanks friends!

2 - Visit: http://www.guenergy.com/ and tell me what flavor of gel you'd like to try or that you already like best. -- leave me a comment

3 - Visit: http://www.guenergy.com/ and tell me what other GU product you would like to try -- leave me a comment

4 - Become a fan of Gu Energy Gel on Facebook -- leave me a comment

5 - Post about this giveaway on your blog, twitter or facebook page (as many times as you'd like) -- leave me a comment for each

Contest will end at midnight on Wednesday, March 24th. Winner will be announced on Thursday.

** Several more fun HUGE giveaways over the next month!! **

300 miles down -- 1,100 to go!!

I ran last night and this morning in my new kicks and they feel awesome! Any pain I had in my feet is gone. It's crazy how dropping a chunk of change like that can really be worth it sometimes! If only I could convince hubby that buying a cute pair of heels and matching purse would do the same for me!! :-)

I added an additional .2 onto my four mile run this morning, so that I have an even 304 for the year. I've been doing that a lot this year and it's really helped me rack of the miles. I've been adding .1 to make a 3 miler into a 5K or adding a another .2 or .5 onto my runs to make my weekly or monthly mileage an even number. It all really adds up after awhile.

I have now surpassed the 300 mile mark for the year!! WOOT WOOT!! Only 1,100 more to go to reach my goal (yikes!).

I have an 18 miler on tap for tomorrow. It snowed overnight. I am not brave to run in the cold, so I have a feeling I will be running three hours on my treadmill tomorrow morning ... wish me luck! I may need it. Hopefully there are some good chick flicks on the Lifetime Channel or some good reality tv on TLC!!

New Running Shoes & Awesome Findings in My Mailbox

I was contacted months ago to see if I would be interested in reviewing Run Like a Mother, a new book that was being released in the Spring of 2010. I was so ecstatic. Well, the little bugger arrived at my doorstep when we returned from vacation last week. I started reading it over the past week and totally identify it and can't wait to share my thoughts with you when I'm done. From page #1, this book reads like my life ... just like most of you running moms ... juggling run and "life". Totally amazing. There has been a lot of buzz in bloggy world as several of you are reading this right now ... I can't wait to read your reviews.

I had my annual physical this morning. My dad was watching Little Dude while I was gone. Luckily I was in and out in 20 mins -- how often does that happen?!?! With my upcoming marathon training, I was in need of a new pair of Brooks Adrenaline, so I stopped at a running store just up the street from my clinic. I had never been there and was excited to browse. I felt all "experienced" telling the store clerk exactly what brand, model and size I needed -- I've been through about 10 pairs now. I giggled a little inside. I usually have had pretty boring colors available to me and usually purchase an older model off of the internet. So, this was a nice treat to me ... especially when the sales clerk brough out these babies .........

They are pink and fabulous and I love the geometric, floral shapes on the side. I will be really sad when these wear down!! Can't wait to try them out after the kiddos go to bed tonight. It is absoulutely awesome having new, comfy little pillows under your feet, isn't it?!?!

Then, I arrived home and there was a nice package from Nicole in my mailbox.

She sent me a really sweet note card with a really sweet note inside along with some fun Disney Princess stickers. I laughed out loud when I saw the little running mom and daughter in matching leopard print running skirts with leopard print bondi bands!! I couldn't believe it!! The other cool thing she included was a runner with a rhinestone tiara.

I can't wait to do something special with my photos from the Disney 1/2 Marathon. Nicole, you are so incredibly sweet, talented and awesome!!

Oh yeah, I coudn't just pick up my awesome new kicks at the running store, I picked up some fun and fashionable running shorts as well as some new nutrition to try out.

It will be fun to try something new, while I'm out on those 20 mile training runs over the next couple of months.

Honey Stinger Organic Energy Chews in Cherry Blossom -- Have you tried these?! The gal at the counter raved about them. Maybe she does love them; maybe she was just trying to make a sale?!

Power Bar Energy Gel Blasts in Raspberry -- these look oh, so yummy! Should be a nice treat.

Races 2 Remember Pace Band Product Review

I was given the wonderful opportunity to review a Pace Band by Races 2 Remember at the Walt Disney World Princess Half Marathon. Molly has been a gem to work with and their product is really great ... and a true motivator!


I had set my goal at 1:55, to set a new PR. Although I didn't meet my goal (missed it by a few minutes), I referred to my pace band throughout the entire 13.1 mile journey. At every mile marker I would check out where I should be. I was usually pretty much on target actually. If I was a few seconds behind, I would kick it up a notch. It really did help me out. The last two miles were tough on my feet, so I didn't get a PR, but I was close. The Pace Band really did help keep me focused on a goal.

Bands are printed on waterproof paper and mine held up my entire journey through sweat, water and Powerade stops. The sticker closure held up fine and I didn't feel it the entire race.

They even went so far to offer me a custom pink leopard print background. How divalicious is that?? I also customized my pace band so that my "encouraging words" said RUNNING DIVA MOM.

Pace Bands - $7.00

Each set of Pace Bands includes three bands, based on different goals or circumstances for the race. You can also give them to friends/family so that they can locate you along the course. I love this idea!

You provide them with the distance, specify the race, goals and encouraging words. They look over the course/elevation and customize your expected time for each mile marker. You can also upload a photo of a loved one for only $1.00.

Grace Bands - $8.00

Grace Bands come in a set of two ... one for you/one for a friend. You are able to identify a motivational item/personal/quote for each mile marker. Anything to get you through that journey during the toughest points, right?

Check them out here to order your Pace Band or Grace Band .... or check out their other really cool, personalizable products!!! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE PERSONALIZATION!!


You'll have a chance to win one of the Pace Bands or Grace Bands in my upcoming HUGE giveaway. Remember, you will need to be a FOLLOWER to be eligible.

Disney Princess Half Marathon Expo

The expo for the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend (half marathon, 5K and kids races) were all held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports. Buses only transported passengers staying at host resorts, which we were. We went on Friday morning, when they opened at 10AM ant the line outside the building was l-o-n-g, but moved rather quickly. We were inside within 10 minutes. I recalled from a previous race that they don't allow strollers inside the expo (pain!). Little Dude didn't last twoo long.

As we approached the entrance, there was a line to meet the Fairy Godmother as well as two men dressed up in formal attire. We didn't were going to go back later to get our photo taken, but forgot amongst the chaos. Women sprinkled us with pixie dust as we entered. Both Little Diva and I took advantage of this!

The expo hall wasn't packed yet since it had just opened, but it was filling up fast. There was a store with the Disney Princess Half Marathon merchandise and several other vendors -- most related to women and running. I didn't think that Disney offered as much merchandise as they did for the full marathon in January. Jason had picked up a running Mickey with the event logo last year and I was hoping they'd have a Minnie version; but they didn't. There was also a stage where they had speakers presenting throughout the day.

Little Diva and I got out our release forms and she went and got her goody bag and bib number.

Then, I took the kids over to get much loot. We received personalized "princess" bibs and apparently we identified our favorite princess at the time of registration, but I didn't recall what I chose. Apparently, we had watched Little Mermaid the same week I signed up last June?!?! HA!

There was a cute glass slipper/running slipper that I had heard of from other bloggers. Too cute!

I shopped all around for about 30 minutes and finally met Rebecca, the owner of Bondi Band (my favorite running necessity!). She gave me some goodies to try out and some stuff for my next giveaway (lucky you!). I wanted to get a photo with her, but Little Dude was getting out of hand. After being discrentled and sweating from all the frutration, I asked hubby to take him outside for a bit, so that Little Diva and I could look around and shop and enjoy ourselves. He took him outside and walked around and looked at the baseball games/training that was going on.

The line for the official event merchandise was getting out of hand!! That is the long winding line to the registers (above). Little Diva and I picked out a nice purple technicle shirt, the official pin for the weekend (we collect pins for our Disney lanyards), coffee mug, key chain, official race Bondi Band (can you believe it?!) and stood in the line for over a half an hour and spent some change (ca-ching!).

Then we shopped around and I got some soda coozies for only $2, a long sleeve t-shirt and another coffee mug. It's a good thing we had to leave, or I would've spent even more. I got some really great deals though and have a lot of companies I want to follow up with!!