Ya Gotta Look Good

The RDM 10K group is having their practice 10K run this weekend and I'm so excited for them.  Their "real" race is at the end of June.  This is one eager and determined group of ladies!  MOTIVATED MANIACS!

And, because ya gotta look good when you race, I just received their team shirts.  One of my former clients also owns a screen printing company .... Screen Door Printing Studio (HERE) in Madison, Wisconsin.  Dorla turned these shirts around in no time at all and they look very professionally done.  I can't wait to work with her again for future races.

I decided on a royal blue technical tee (with a cotton feel).  The women's fit is super flattering and the shirts are soft, but keep you dry.  I recently designed the new RDM logo and we placed that on the front ........

We threw around some girly phrases, as well as some funny sayings for the back of the shirt. Majority rules .........

I'm running

and smiling

because

I've found

my happy pace.

I'm in LOVE with these shirts!!!
I ordered the royal blue and the light pink for myself.

Shame on Jane Jewelry Winner ...

I was recently given the opportunity to review an Inspirational RemindeRing Set from Shame on Jane. You can read all about my fabulous experience HERE.

Please visit Shame on Jane online HERE and start shopping.

There were 89 entries in my recent giveaway. One winner was chose at random to receive an Inspirational RemindeRing Set from Shame on Jane.

Random.org chose ……..

Heather @
Run Eat Play
(HERE)

Congratulations, Heather!!! 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 ) ]

Announcement: 30 days / 30 Giveaways

I have been working with so many fabulous companies lately

and want to share it all with you .......

I'm happy to announce that the month of June will be filled with
30 days of 30 reviews and giveaways.Items will be geared towards runners, children and active families.
You won't want to miss out on the variety of items that you could win!

Be sure to become follow the RDM blog and like us over on Facebook (HERE) ... !!

Three Things Thursday

Yesterday was one fab day filled with running-related dates and runs all over the place.
It was fabulous.  It is my life.

1)  I had the opportunity to run three miles with Rachel from Running in Real Life (HERE).  She is the captain of our Ragnar Relay team and we both had items we had to give each other, prior to the race.  What a great opportunity to also fit in a run …. and dress really cute!  We ended up meeting up after work at Catalyst Active Store (HERE), where I coach.  My former Couch to 5K participants meet there weekly for a thirty minute run, so this was also a great opportunity to catch up with them over a run.  It was great to see them still keeping at it and that it’s become a part of their lifestyle.  It was also great getting to know Rachel better and our conversation got me all psyched up for Ragnar!  It’s going to be one fab time.  After the three-ish miler, I also met up with the BF at his softball game and we ran an additional three miles together on the commuter path.  I had to get in six miles for the evening, and he was such a sport to catch up on our day over a run (even though he was supposedly taking the night off).

2)  While I was at Catalyst (HERE), I purchased these awesome running/hiking shoes.  I am enjoying hiking and using our state park pass.  I just don’t have the right shoes and didn’t want to use my pricey running shoes for making the treks.  Jim at Catalyst helped me find this fab pair of Adidas shoes.  They are comfy, they are cute, and they were affordable at 50% off.

3)      I spent my lunch hour yesterday, meeting up with two sweet bloggers, Chelsea and Kerri (who no longer blogs … lol).  We met two years ago through our blogs and found out we work across the street from each other.  Kerri has made tutus in the past and was sweet enough to make me this awesome white tutu for the Color Run this Saturday evening.  The idea is to be dressed all in white at the start and be covered in a rainbow of colors at the end of three miles.  And how better, than in a tutu?!?  Totally gonna embarrass the BF.

Last Long Run & a Lunch Date

With my marathon scheduled for Memorial Day weekend, I took off this past Monday from work to fit in my last long training run. I had the kids for Mother’s Day weekend and didn’t want to take time away from them to fit in my training. Being the planner that I am, I laid out my running outfit, gear and fuel the evening before. I got the kids ready for school and we headed out the door around 7:30 AM.

Since I rarely have the opportunity, I also wanted to fit in a lunch at Little Diva’s school. Lunch was scheduled for 11:15. I dropped the kids off at their schools and parked the Marathon Mommy Minivan in the elementary school parking lot at 8:00 AM. I figured I could get in three hours of running (or 18 miles) before lunchtime. And, that’s what I did.

The temperatures were supposed to soar into the 80’s and that they did quickly. There were few clouds in the sky, as I zig-zagged around town from park to park. My ipod and I had a wonderful three hour route planned as I took a slow pace along the citywide path. I had no aches, no cramping, no impromptu restroom stops. I simply stopped to refill my wotter bottle twice and kept myself hydrated. I downed two gels and felt energized during the entire training run. I returned to the school’s parking lot and cleaned myself up a little, while I downed a Diet Mountain Dew.

I grabbed my insulated cooler, so that I could join Little Diva for a twenty minute lunch with her friends. I showed up at the classroom and she was surprised and excited to see me in my sweating running gear. She wondered why I wasn’t at my work or in my work attire. (Funny how neither child questioned it in the minivan just three hours earlier?!) We ate lunch, I listened to second grade gossip, and then I kissed her good-bye, as she and her friends headed out on the playground. I headed back out to the parking lot, restarted my stopwatch, and I headed out for two more miles in the heat.


Last long run is in the books, before marathon number 5 on May 27.

Ragnar Relay / Pirate Name Goody Bag Giveaway

In less than a month, I will be running Ragnar Relay (HERE) from Madison, Wisconsin to Chicago, Illinois.  200 miles ... 2 vans ... 12 midwest bloggers ... tons of laughs ... tons of fun!

Our team is playing off of a pirate theme ... pirates who also wear fashionable panties, that is!

We are the Panty Raiders and we are going to have a crazy, good time!
Show us yer booty!!

I missed the group's pre-relay meet-up, back in March.  Just look at this good lookin' group!  I know several of the members, and can't wait to meet everyone else.

We are all choosing a Pirate Name ... and I am at a loss with creativity for mine.  I need a little help, this is where YOU come in!! .....

We have several fantastic sponsors lined up, who have donated some fabulous products.  Including, custom Bondi Bands and Chrissy's Knee High Socks.  Stay tuned after the relay, for product reviews on all of the products.

The winner of this giveaway will have a chance to try out products from the following generous companies .......

Running Chics (HERE)

Bondi Band (HERE)

Chrissy's Knee High Socks (HERE)
Blue Steel Sports (HERE)
Polar Water Bottles  (HERE)
Given Brand ArmPockets (HERE)
Gu  (HERE)
Body Glide (HERE)

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

One lucky winner will win a
Panty Raiders Goody Bag
(pictured above)

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 – Suggest a clever Pirate Name for the relay.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT

Enter now though Sunday, May 20.

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

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

Date Night: Couch to 5K Couples Edition

DATE NIGHT:
Couch to 5K in 9 Weeks
Couples Edition

A support system is everything!!  I have found it extremely helpful through my journey to find a partner that can also be my training partner.  Running  and working out together is encouraging and holds you both accountable.  It also allows you to schedule quality time together, have great conversation and you both get a great workout in the process.

Through this nine week program, my partner and I will lead you through a gradual Couch to 5K program, consisting of both running and walking.  You will be educated on the proper gear, injury prevention, hydration and stretching.  This casual, non-competitive atmosphere is a great way to train together towards a common goal.

Are you looking for a way to reconnect??
Do you both need some quality time away from the kids??
Are you already active and want your spouse
to participate in your active lifestyle??

Session starts Tuesday, July 31 for nine weeks
Group meets every Tuesday
at 6:00 - 7:00 PM
in Sun Prairie and Madison, Wisconsin
Two additional weekly runs on your own as a couple
Training for The Dane County Alzheimer's 5K Run
on Saturday, September 29

$125 Enrollment Fee
per couple
(training program and t-shirt included; race entry fee separate)

-  Weekly date night without the kids
-  Group support and support from your spouse

-  Enjoy a variety of routes and trails in Sun Prairie & Madison

-  Positive coach and encouraging atmosphere

To enroll:  Contact Jamie Edge
runningdivamom@yahoo.com
www.runningdivamom.com

Sof Sole Anti-Friction Socks Review & Giveaway

Last year, I had a great experience working with Sof Sole (HERE) and their insoles and various socks designed for endurance athletes. I loved the socks, which are still holding up quote well, but they do have some wear from the 1200+ miles I have run in the past twelve months.  I'm  happy to spotlight the Anti-Friction socks for you again. 

Anti-Friction:•Mesh vent for airflow
•Fitted heel pocket
•Seamless toe
•Patented anti-friction ribs enhance stability

The size Medium fits womens shoes size 5-10.  I wear a 10 and they fit me just fine.  They are market as "no show" and I prefer my sock a little higher.  The first time I wore the new pairs, they did fall down every so slightly, enough that they were annoying.  The next time I wore them, I simply made sure that they were pulled up tightly and experienced no problems.  I do prefer higher socks.  And I've been getting so use to knee high and compression socks.  So, that being said, if you prefer no-show socks ... these may be the right pair for you!  I really loved how soft the Sof Sole socks were.  There is not much padding, if you are looking for cushion in your hot spots.  They are also a thinner variety.  98% polyester and 2% spandex.  The socks are sold in a colorful 3 pack for $9.99, which is extremely affordable and comparable to the local discount and sports good stores! 

I have a lot of Couch to 5K clients that start the program and don't understand how GOOD SOCKS, in addition to a good shoe fitting, can really make a difference in your feet and your workout.  Good socks are a good investment in your running wardrobe.  You will keep your feet dry, prevent rubbing, chaffing and blisters.  I would highly recommend the Sof Sole Anti-Frictions socks to my clients.  They are effective, comfortable, cute and affordable.

Interested in the Sof Sole inserts??!!
Check back soon on RDM
(hint, hint!)

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

One lucky winner will win a pack of
Sof Sole Anti-Friction Socks

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

4 – Become a fan of Sof Sole 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, May 19.

[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

This morning, I posted my May training plan over on the RDM Facebook page (HERE).  189 miles?!?  I decided to go back to my old habits and post my training program right on my refrigerator. It has held me accountable in the past, ramped up my mileage and has helped me get leaner and stronger. And guess what?!?! It’s working! Even when I haven’t been able to fit in the entire mileage in one session, I’ve made it up later, or done a double workout.

This training program isn’t your typical training plan. I plan all of my longer runs when I am not scheduled to have Little Diva and Little Dude. Pink denotes days/evening when the kids are with me. I even scheduled a day off of work next week to get my last long run in (and some extra time with the kids later in the day).

The placement and timing of the long runs are probably not the smartest or safest idea on the planet. But, it’s working for me right now. I am not planning on getting injured. Nope.

My coaching commitments are taken into account. Some of the daily mileage is wrapped up into two or three sessions. It’s called multi-tasking, people! It works.

I live by structure. I live by a plan. I strive to make the most out of every single day. I am busy … yes. But, I am happy … and so are my kids.

Think you can’t fit it all in?? Think again.

A Single Mommy's Training Plan

After several recommendations from friends and clients, I've decided to try Kettlebells.  It was also suggested to me that Bob Harper has one intense program.  So, I stopped by Target yesterday and picked up a set for $30.  I've been wanting to work on my upper body for a long time now and haven't had the time haven't made the time to focus on it.  I spend so much time running ... doing what I enjoy most ... and doing the same motions and working the same areas over-and-over again.  It's time to add something different into my routine.  I look forward to seeing a difference.

Do you have an experence with Kettlebells that you would like to share?
Do you have a program or DVD that you think has worked really well for you?

Gonna Finally Work the Upper Body

The Little Dude and I had a Day Date last week and spent much of the day visiting garage sales.  I was in the market for some gently used clothes for the kids for next year, a mountain bike for the boyfriend and a fondue pot.  I found it all!  I love garage sales and thrift store shopping.  I love deals!

I am so excited to try this fondue pot out with the kids some night and make a big event of it.  It was a steal for ten bucks and I know we are going to get a lot of enjoyment and quality time together because of it.

Do you have a favorite fondue recipe?

Fondue Pot Steal ...
and a Stockpile of Diet Mtn Dew

RDM on Facebook

Did you know that Running Diva Mom is also on Facebook???

If you didn't, you are missing out on daily motivational quotes,

mileage/race status updates, and funny photos uploaded from my cell phone.

If you simply have RDM bookmarked and want to get instant updates and posts,

hope on over to Facebook now.

LIKE RDM ON FACEBOOK (HERE)

Thanks for following our journey!

Crazylegs Classic 8K 2012 Race Report

This year’s Crazylegs Classic (HERE) experience was a little different for me.  I wasn’t running by myself, was running for fun, but I still wanted to finish well.  Make sense?  I wasn’t sure if I wanted to push myself, but didn’t want to regret my time later.  This year was still some of the same ole/same ole, because Crazylegs’ weekend forecast always calls for rain.  This year was no different in that regard.  Drizzle…drizzle…drizzle.

I dropped the kids off with my parents for some bonding time and then dropped the Marathon Mommy Minivan off at the Lake Street ramp, located off of the infamous State Street in downtown Madison.  J (insert cheesy pseudo-name here--suggestions welcome!) and I walked up State Street as the first wave was heading off.  Each wave started about two minutes apart.  We walked around the Capitol Square and found my corral (He was seeded for “N”).  Based on my previous times, I was placed in corral “O”.  My wave was a hit for the UW students at the start line, who all sang one of their football game favorites and made their “O” formation with their arms.  We gave high-fives to Bucky and UW athletes and were quickly off around the Capitol Square for approximately five miles (8K) of fun through Madtown.

The rain stopped and it was chilly, but perfect for running.  I layered short sleeves under a long sleeve technical jacket and was getting warm five minutes in.  We arrived at the one mile marker around 8 minutes.  I knew Observatory Drive’s hill was coming up and was bracing myself.  I took short and choppy steps up the hill and didn’t feel too winded by the time I reached the top.  I think I can safely say that it was the easiest Observatory Drive experience for me to date.  Rolling hills proceeded through the undergraduate campus, as we headed west towards the clinical campus.  Music was playing as we approached the Lakeshore path and then the painful turnaround.  The paved path was packed as always.  Crowded and hard to maneuver.   But manageable nonetheless. Still, my pace slowed a bit at the half-way point.  But, I felt pretty strong.  We took turns encouraging each other the entire race.  I had my handheld and skipped the water station.  We took a turn and a runner was down and an ambulance was approaching us from behind.  We then headed towards University Avenue.  The dudes at the car wash had their annual “water stop” and then Rocky’s Anthem was playing from the supportive household that brings us in that last mile … every single year.  I could hear the crowd and announcer inside Camp Randall Stadium.  We approached the crowd and sped up going down to the entrance to the football field.  And, as always, I crossed that finish line with a smile on my face!!

Chip Time: 41:27
129/1,061 Age Group
725/5,940 Female
3,317/12,408 Overall

We grabbed a water and headed up the bleachers to find a cool, dry place.  The sweat and the cool weather were cooling down our bodies and my teeth were chattering.  So, we headed inside for some free beer!  The beer at the end was great!  I’m not a beer drinker, but downed a few glass myself, before freezing my @$$ off in the cold, crowded stadium and running back to the marathon mommy minivan, parked a couple of miles away.   

Skinnygirl Daily Vitamin Power Packets and On-The-Go Bars Review

Bethenny Frankel’s love of life, natural foods, and a healthy body along with Matt Hesse’s passion for safe supplementation were the inspiration behind the Skinnygirl Daily products (HERE).  Bethenny’s ability to provide straightforward, useful answers to common problems women face has made her a trusted name when it comes to health and wellness. Her reputation alongside Matt’s experience in the nutritional supplement industry made the brand a reality!  Thankfully, Bethenny & Matt collaborated to share with the world the on-the-go nutritional line, Skinnygirl Daily!

Skinnygirl Daily (HERE)

What motivated them to create these unique, natural on-the-go health supplements?  Bethenny has tried many different kinds of cleanses over the years in an attempt to detoxify her body from the daily, ongoing exposure to toxins found in our air, food, water, and beauty products.  She found these cleanses to be harsh, inconvenient, and unsustainable. As a health-conscious person, she understands the importance of supporting the body in eliminating toxins and wanted an easier way to gently detox her system. Matt has always held a strong belief in safe, natural supplementation that aid in a healthier lifestyle versus short-term results. Skinnygirl Daily Cleanse & Restore was created to provide a hassle-free, effective solution to cleansing as part of a daily routine.

Bethenny also knows that women desire more energy to keep up with the demands that are placed on them at a never-ending pace.  Matt’s experience with the norms of weight loss products allowed them to create a unique product for healthy weight & additional energy. The Skinnygirl Daily Weight Management & Energy addresses this yearning for increased energy and maintaining a healthy weight.

As a busy, on-the-go mom, Bethenny understands that convenience and ease of use are essential for today's 21st Century woman, and all of her Skinnygirl Daily products are made with your lifestyle in mind.  She has made it easy for women to incorporate these high quality, natural formulations into their lives, regardless of where they're at in their health journey.

Choosing a positive attitude, eating a nutritious, balanced diet, and adopting an active lifestyle in combination with the Skinnygirl Daily products will allow you to experience vibrant health and a better quality life.  Our wish is for you to enjoy a renewed level of energy, and to feel lighter, healthier, and more confident.  Unleash your Skinnygirl once and for all!

Skinnygirl Daily Vitamin Power Packets sell in sets of 30 packets for $14.99

Daily Multi-Vitamin & Electrolytes combined with a function depending on your daily needs. Contains 30 Flavored powder packets to mix with 10 ounces of water.

Functions:

Immunity: designed to support your immune system and improve your overall health, contains 1000 mg Vitamin C and Elderberry for long term health. Tangerine Flavor

Energy & Alertness: designed to increase focus and energy levels, contains Green Tea Extract, Guarana, and Vitamin B12 to support and boost natural energy. Strawberry Lemonade Flavor

Stress Relief & Calm: designed as a calming aid to help you relax after a long day, contains Chamomile, Rhodiola, and Valerian Root which work together to calm you & reduce stress levels. Blueberry Lemonade Flavor

Hair Skin Nails: designed to strengthen and restore your hair, skin, and nails; contains Biotin and our Beauty Blend (with Collagen) to help improve the health and growth of your hair, skin, and nails. Wild Berry Flavor

I really enjoyed the unique flavor of Blueberry Lemonade.  It was a refreshing afternoon treat at the office.  I also liked Strawberry Lemonade and the Tangerine flavors.  I didn't care for Wild Berry, as I typically don't enjoy berry flavored drinks.  I typically love orange Powerade Zero and really enjoyed the tangerine, being it was not as sweet as Powerade.  Having only tried a few packets, I can only comment on taste and how well it mixes with water.  It works great in a tall glass of ice water or shaken up in a water bottle.  I am unable to determine whether it strengthens your hair, skin and nails or increases your energy level.  It was a great way to help me get my water intake for the day.  I would even try the Energy & Alertness packets during a training run, if I wanted to.  The cost of 30 packets for $15 is a little more expensive than the usual packets I purchase.  I am glad I had the opportunity to try it.

I also had the opportunity to try out the Skinnygirl Daily on the Go Bars (HERE).  I loved the Dark Chocolate Multi-Grain Pretzel bar!  YUM!  I loved the sweet and salty combination.  The consistency was great and much btter than other natural bars I've tried on the market.  It was a really nice sweet treat and a quick pick-me-up before a six mile training run.  The cost for a box of bars is a little steep, based on what I typically pay at the grocery store. 

Skinnygirl On-the-Go Bars are natural, kosher, and vegan. Indulge in the natural 200 calorie snack. 2-100 portions per bar make a great on-the-go treat or afternoon snack that is guilt-free. The indulgent treat made for those striving to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are the perfect, easy On-the-Go option for busy individuals in need of a quick and healthy bite to eat.  1 box contains 5 bars and retails for $9.99.  Also available in Banana Oatmeal Dark Chocolate

RDM Featured in This Mother Can Run

RDM has been featured in the current issue of This Mother Can Run (HERE)!  In "Single Mama on the Run", I contributed an article about how I fit my career, my training and my life into my parental schedule as a single mother of two.  Whether you live in a household with one parent or two, I hope that you will learn something to help you succeed in all areas of your life.  And keep you and your kids happy and healthy.

"This Mother Can Run is a magazine written for women who love to run. It doesn't matter if you are a world class runner or someone who has just started to run and enjoy the experience. I hope this magazine inspires you, informs you, and makes you realize that you are a part of a special group - running moms. Enjoy."

-- Nanette Simmons

You can download the May/June 2012 Issue of This Mother Can Run (HERE)

Become a fan of This Mother Can Run on Facebook (HERE)

Lego KIDSFEST Event Giveaway

Do your kids love Legos?  Do YOU secretly love playing with your kids and their Legos??  I am delighted to share that Lego KIDSFEST is on a national tour, with a stop in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, just a couple of hours away from my family!  Little Diva, Little Dude and I cannot wait to attend in June!!!

LEGO KIDSFEST Milwaukee: June 15 – 17



Three Acres of Hands-On Educational Fun for All Ages

The LEGO^® KidsFest national tour stops at Milwaukee’s Frontier Airlines Center June 15 – 17, 2012, bringing all of the creative hands-on, minds-on fun of LEGO building and experiences together in this three acre activity- and  entertainment-packed family event for children of all ages and builders of all skills and interests.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

The LEGO KidsFest is a giant traveling LEGO expo coming to Milwaukee’s Frontier Airlines Center June 15 – 17, 2012. This hands-on, educational, all-ages LEGO extravaganza features millions of LEGO bricks not to mention lots of construction zones, dozens of life-sized LEGO models and displays, LEGO Ninjago and LEGO Games, group builds such as Creation Nation, live LEGO Master Builders, and so much more covering three acres of space.

Five identical Sessions are available. Tickets are $18 for kids and $20 for adults.

For more information and to purchase tickets, log on to www.LEGOKidsFest.com

Among the many LEGO attractions, families will find:

• LEGO Model Gallery: dozens of life-sized models made entirely from LEGO bricks


• LEGO Master Builders: live demonstrations and activities from the crew who get paid to play


• Creation Nation: build your own creation to add to a custom map of the U.S.


• Race Ramps: build your own custom car, then race it down the ramp against friends and family


• LEGO Games Arena: roll the dice to play LEGO board games


• Construction Zones: creative free build, play and display areas


• LEGO DUPLO®: younger visitors can explore imagination through building


• LEGO Retail and KidsFest Marketplace: purchase LEGO merchandise and official KidsFest tour goods


• Brick Pile: a gigantic pile full of LEGO bricks for creative play and enjoyment


• Monochromatic Builds: bricks of a single color to foster group creativity

• Brickscapes: fantastic displays that combine lots of LEGO and DUPLO sets

• And much more, covering over 150,000 square feet of space

“Any family who likes to be inspired, get hands-on and have fun together won’t want to miss LEGO KidsFest,” said Vince Rubino, LEGO events manager. “We’re bringing so many activities for Milwaukee-area families to test and showcase their creativity and building skills in what is sure to be a family event to remember.”

The LEGO KidsFest 2012 tour includes:
Cincinnati (March 23 – 25)
Denver (April 27 – 29)
Milwaukee (June 15 – 17)
Austin (August 31 – September 2)
Detroit (October 12 – 14)
Pittsburg (November 30 – December 2)

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One lucky winner will win
a pair of tickets to the Friday, June 15
Lego KIDSFEST session in
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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 Lego KIDSFEST website HERE and tell me what you learned. LEAVE ME A COMMENT

4 – Become a fan of Lego KIDSFEST 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, May 18.

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

A New Couch to 5K Journey Begins

Last Tuesday, the journey started for fourteen new members of the next Couch to 5K program.  These ladies signed up through the Sun Prairie Recreation Program's Couch to 5K program this winter and the time is here.  They started last week with their first three training runs and will spend the next nine weeks training for a local 5K. 

Spring 2012 Couch to 5K Participants

I've already told them that it's about having fun ... it's about enjoying yourself ... it's about the journey ... and ahem, it's about the fabulous gear!  I reminded them that still may not enjoy running at the end of this process.  But, they will have learned a lot about themselves and the journey will open the door up to other opportunities ... getting outdoors, paving the path to trying other endurance sports and activities, making new friends, trying new things, stepping out of their comfort zone.

The hardest part was getting to the start line last Tuesday, at that first training run.  Getting to that finish line in June will be a fun, little adventure ... that we will all experience together.

Catalyst Couch to 5K Race Report

Back in February, I started running with a new Couch to 5K Group at Catalyst active store in Madison, Wisconsin (HERE).  The group consisted of women over the age of 50.  These ladies were excited to step-out-of-the-box and try something new. 

Over the past several months, they would run and laugh ... and joke about their aches and pains.  They enjoyed reminding me that they weren't "spring chickens" and that I needed to take it easy on them.  Wishful thinking!  They began with 1/1 intervals of running and walking for 20 minutes and worked themselves up to 35 minutes of running consecutively.  We had a few people stop in throughout the program, and a few withdraw due to injuries.  But, the group of five remained strong.  Some of them even ran together on the weekends to complete their third run of the week.  Habits formed.  Relationships formed.  Lifes were transformed.



First Group Run:  February 2012



Last Group Run:  Excited for their Race!



On April 21, the group ran their first 5K at the American Cancer Society's 31st Annual 5K at Warner Park in Madison, Wisconsin (HERE).  There was also a 10K event.  Sadly, one of the ladies was unable to join us at the event, due to a personal commitment.

I zig-zagged through the sea of runners to run portions of the race with each Couch to 5K participant.  Some ran the entire race and some took a few, small walking breaks.  But, they all finished.  And, they finished strong!!

The ladies all finished between 34-39 minutes and I couldn't have been more proud of them.  Most importantly, they finished with HUGE smiles on their faces. 

I also received this (very appropriate) adorable set from one of the Couch to 5K participants.  I look forward to remembering our fun training runs together, over my morning cup of coffee.  The clipboard will also come in handy with the other groups I am training.  I will be forever grateful for all of the paths that have crossed through this fabulous journey.