Your Betty and Your Booty

You may find this post a little X-rated -- or you may find it hysterical.
(SCROLL ALL THE WAY DOWN FOR A SPECIAL SURPRISE ENDING!)

Get ready for some real girl dishing here and now!

I saw two posts today in an email e-newsletter that I felt I must share.

First up is Betty Beauty!

You may or may not not that most of us will GO GRAY —down there!
I'm not talking about the hair on your head, ladies.
Look down
keep looking
down a little further.

Yep, even our va-jay-jay will get older and lose its youthful charm.

Betty Beauty to the rescue! You can dye your "betty" with shades like Black Betty (tee hee), Blonde Betty, Auburn Betty, and a bright pink "Fun Betty."

Click here to see the perfect patch color for http://www.bettybeauty.com/patrick.html">

Check out all the Rockin' shades at - only $19.99.

Next up...
The Wind Breaker! aka Subtle Butt Filters!

My husband always laugh when I use the word "TOOT" instead of fart.
Maybe its a southern thing - little more lady-like.

Ever have one of those "Oh man, I shouldn't have eaten that just before my big meeting!" moments?

Or maybe you've clenching your cheeks (not the ones on your face) in the elevator for fear everyone will need a gas mask.

Rather than prevent the flatulence, why not filter it, with a "Subtle Butt" fart-filter.

Tee-hee-hee!

Adhere a 3.25 x 3.25-inch patch of soft fabric that is impregnated with activated carbon to the inside of your underwear.

Subtle Butt filters the toot, and absorbs and neutralizes the odor.

If you're a bugle tooter you're out of luck - gotta tone down the sound yourself!

http://www.garmentguard.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=8">

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAMsMf6wgdE&feature=related"> - Enjoy!

You never really know

Yesterday I was remembering a fall soccer team my daughter played on two years ago. There was a Mommy there who could make your skin crawl with negative vibes. She was just plain mean and made you want to move away when you were by her. She never had anything good to say about anybody or anything. She had a look on her face that just made you know she was really unhappy inside and was taking it out on the world. One day I had my Bible study materials with me and was hit over the head that God loves her too and I needed to step up and just get human and love on her. Well, she just couldn't stand me at all. I kept asking questions, trying to be cheerful, sitting by her, and she just rebuffed all my attempts at friendship, camaraderie, or living on the same planet. This went on for a couple of months, but damn it, I was not going to let her push me away. She needed something. This woman was probably about 300lbs and could barely walk over to the benches. I really thought she was miserable because of her weight and never talked about running (which I think always comes up in all my other conversations). One day- somehow she let her guard down and it turns out she had walked two marathons in Hawaii. I was floored. Marathon-- our common ground? Who would have ever thought? From then on she was a little less hostile-never really a friend, but there was a calmness and ease that came between us. I loved to bring up her accomplishment so the other Mommies could hear it. At the end of the season her husband divorced her after many years of marriage and she was left out in the cold. She was suffering big time inside that whole time. She's gone now. The husband lives here alone now. I'm not sure why I felt compelled to share this today, but I did. Wonder of wonders

Finally!!

Just wanted to let anyone else who developed an addiction to the Baja Black Bean flavor of Corazonas chips know that they are finally available at Amazon!! I have been waiting and waiting because I can't find them anywhere near me. Today is the day! Happy (and healthy!) snacking!

Pump It Up

I can take the cold, but the precipitation is keeping us in, so what to do? It turns out that my kids love doing aerobics tapes! I prefer STEP aerobics and still have the original STEP Reebok VHS tape circa about 1993. My daughter will choose “yoga” – actually Denise Austin – if given the choice. I am not sure how that miscommunication arose. So, anyway, we have these sets of tiny 1-pound dumbbells and the kids LOVE TO WORKOUT! Sometimes they tire of Kathy Smith’s background music so we mute the volume there and listen to They Might Be Giants ABCs while I follow the visual cues.

The kids pile on my back for push-ups at the end and everybody wins!

The main thing I will caution you about is that you have to keep a really careful eye on where the kids are at all times so you don’t accidentally kick anyone in the head.

When did this happen!?!

I was doing my "long" run yesterday as part of my team's training for the Country Music 1/2 Marathon in April and it hit me.

Holy Crap - I've become a runner!

When did this happen? It literally snuck up on me.

I mean, I know I've been "in training" for several weeks now, but I don't think the realization that I may actually become a runner ever hit me til now.

See, I'm 5'2". I weigh one hundred-mumble-mumble. I would consider myself "athletic" as I've worked out fairly consistently over the years, but I don't have that lean, mean body most runners have. I really shouldn't be a runner. NOTHING about the way I look says "Runner", but - you know what...none of that matters.

I've realized I don't have to have the "look" of a runner to be one. I've realized the fact that I consider myself a runner on the inside is what does matter as that is what keeps me going.

I'm literally AMAZED each week at my long runs that my body can do what I ask it to.

I ran 5 miles yesterday! I know for many of you that is not a long distance at all, but - for me - that is probably the longest I've ever run at one time. And it felt great! I finally realized that I can actually finish the 1/2 marathon. Now - I don't have any high aspirations of winning it, but at least I feel confident enough to cross the starting line and that is half the battle.

Id say Im late to the party BUT

I just got mine.
and I actually LAUGH that Im quite honestly so excited.
Clean Well?

I HEART YOU.

the scent is amazing (please to see above aforementioned laughter. honestly, People, I really dont give a hoot about soap) and AESTHETICALLY there is something I love about it.

clean looking (pun intended) and not obtrusive on the counter.

dont take my word for it:

http://www.cleanwelltoday.com

go to the hand soap and run yer cursor over the containers & you'll see what I mean.

go ahead.


Ill wait.

Snow Days Are Making Me Fat

I feel like my kids have missed so much school these days! Today, despite what the weather man predicted, we have nothing but wet pavement and yet, the schools are closed....again. So what do I do? Bake....again. No running, just baking. Today, I made Outrageous Chocolate Cookies from Everyday Food. Oh. My. Gosh. Do not make these if you have any concern what so ever about the size of your butt because I guarantee you will not be able to stop eating them. To quote my 4-year-old Quinn, "These are the best cookies mommy has ever made in the whole entire world ever!"
You can find the recipe here. Oh, and just a tip, because these cookies are so dang chocolaty, I used good ghirardelli chocolate for both the batter and the chunks.

I am that Ground Hog

Howdy Running Mommys et al;
I'm just waiting for the thaw-- for that weather that MAKES you get out there. The weather where you feel sick inside that you did not get outside and run your heart out instead of oh well another workout canceled due to inclement weather. I'm in confession mode and have to admit that I've been doing 3 mile runs due to weather instead of 5 mile runs. This means I cross the railroad tracks and go to the 2nd pole and turn around instead of running all the way to the tank up on blocks and touch the sign post declaring Fort Knox is where you are. Yesterday I did the normal five and feel like I'm clean again. The guilt is gone. I'm headed to Texas in March for some real runs to feel completely human again and then it will be nice here. I ran more in Texas. It is a good thing we've changed directions and will be headed that way as we retire after 26 years.....

Mall Playground

I was at the mall the other day with a good friend of mine. We'd just set the boys free at the indoor playground. Moms were passing anti-bacterial soap like crazy.
"Hey," I said, all non-chalant and cool. "Look what I have."
I showed her my CleanWell.
"Try it," I told her. "You won't get addicted." He-he-he.
"Oh, I have this. But I'll try that. I mean, if it isn't more expensive..."
I bit my lip and grabbed her antibacterial soap.
"Ah-ha!" I pointed out. "Denatured alcohol."
"Well," she admitted. "My hands are already starting to feel a little dry. Okay, I'll try it."

Loved the smell. To me it smells like my favorite popsicle, the orange kind with the vanilla ice cream inside...
And it didn't dry out her hands.

I should have given her a coupon. Next time I will.

The fact is, I like the packaging and I like the statement the handsoap makes next to the bathroom sink.

Putting the Rat in "Gym Rats"

The National Institute of Health lays out the Body Mass Index (analysis of height & weight) into the following catagories:

• Underweight = <18.5
• Normal weight = 18.5-24.9
• Overweight = 25-29.9
• Obesity = BMI of 30 or greater

That definition is pretty standard. You google Body Mass Index Calculator, you'll find a over two hundred thousand different resources to tell you the same thing. Although there is certainly reason to take one's BMI with a grain of salt, so to speak, it is common knowledge that anything under 18.5% is considered "Underweight" for women.

Which brings me to the point of my post. I train at a well known Fitness Center named after a major city in California. Walking out of my gym today, after what really felt like a break-though in my swim training, I was feeling great....until I saw a message on a dry erase board. I think the author might have fancied it to be inspirational, but I think otherwise.

2008 Summer Goals:

• New Swimsuit
• New Towel
• 16 % Body Fat

Sign up today for your consultation with a trainer.

Bravo, Gym Trainer for trying to gut my self-esteem, rather than aim to inspire. Bravo.

surrounded by superwomen....

I wish I had something new and exciting to add to the mix!

every time I start a post the famous Twain quote of:
Better to stay silent and be thought a slacking runner even if it IS due to illness, than to speak and remove all doubt.
pops into my mind for some reason


I always listen to the voices in my head.
you?

crazy woman

Or so they – my husband, my friends – say. I wake up at 5 a.m. to run (not every morning – other mornings I do a weight routine or a self-created spinning routine, but even then waking at 5 a.m.). After about 6-7 hours of interrupted sleep (my eight-month-old is a lousy sleeper – like his brother before him). So I am probably adding to my chronic sleep deprivation. But when else am I to be alone?

And they think this is crazy. I have told no one of the true running craziness to come.

It all started when I decided to run the Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run on April 6. (I have run it a few times before, including after having my first child in 2005 and 2006). From experience, I knew I had to register as soon as registration opened online – on December 12. This race closes fast, usually within a few days.

That day, I had a sick baby and a ton of editing work to do – all of which I dealt with in the morning. So I lost track of registering first thing. Online registration was closed by the time I got online at 1pm – within a few hours, not a few days. Mail-in was open, but I had little hope – though I filled out that form by hand and popped it in the mail.

In a fit of needing to do run something BIG, I registered for other races: The Wirefly National Half-Marathon on March 29 and the George Washington Parkway Classic 10 Miler on April 27.

And then I found out I did indeed get in to the Cherry Blossom. That is three 10+ mile races in a month.

And I intend to run them all. With what will be a four-year-old and a nine-month old in the house. At least my husband is supportive. But I don’t think he yet has the whole picture.

I do have the training under my belt: I can cover 10 miles these days with (some) ease, and I ran the Parks Half-Marathon in September (yes, with a three-month-old at home).

But am I crazy?

What Not to Do

You might not want to take your two-year-old ice skating, increase your miles, throw on a little extra weight on at the gym, repeatedly toss your 35-pound child into the air, climb up and down from your washer and dryer to extract a live chipmunk from your dryer vent, replace said dryer vent, climb a ladder to fix some lightbulbs, and go to aerobics at the gym . . . in the same week . . . if you are pregnant.

You might hurt your back . . .

A day in the life of....

...a Half Marathoner.

10 pm: Double check that: bib number is pinned on shirt; chip is tied onto shoes. Gather socks, shorts, hat, watch, sports bra, mini water bottle, gu & Cliff Shots, diaper rash cream, baby powder, towel, dry clothes, and hair rubber band. Make sure coffee pot is loaded & ready.
10:30 pm: force self to try to sleep
10:40 pm: jump out of bed to print directions to parking lot/start line
10:50 pm: back in bed...for good this time.
10:55 pm: SET ALARM!!!!!
2:45 am: Finally doze off...
3:30 am: Roll out of bed, start coffee brewing, put on clothes.
3:55 am: Sit outside waiting for running buddy to pick you up.
4:55 am: Arrive to race area and pull into the parking spot the bar hoppers just abandoned.
5:15 am: Jump into one of the open, fresh port-a-lets.
5:20 am: Attached necessities to body (gu & shots, water bottle, diaper cream) and bag check the rest.
5:25 am: Stand 8 minutes in line for the port-a-lets and go in the one that has the wet roll of toilet paper.
5:40 am: Run into friends and talk shop about the last race you guys were at.
5:45 am: Try to figure out what the announcer is saying and realize a police officer is yelling at you to get out of the street because the wheelchairs are starting.
5:50 am: Find your spot in the half mile long corral, eventually discover you're near the back.
5:59 am: Realize you REALLY need to pee
6:00 am : Gun goes off! The race is on!

...to be continued...

uhhhh...

...crickets chirping...

Congratulations, Andrea! Seeing your amazing time made me run right to the calculator...I have you clocking in at about 12 minutes a mile! As someone who has never run a marathon, I have to tell you, I am simply in awe!

The daughter stayed home from school today, so I hopped on the treadmill and paced myself at, you got it, 12 minutes a mile. I just wanted to let you know that you are now running right beside me and you are quite the stringent trainer.

I have never been so impressed and so inspired. Someday I hope to run in a marathon beside, or just in front of ;) you.

XOXO

Weather Woes.......

I love the on-line log.....BUT......this weather is not helping meet my goals! I am still hauling my butt to the gym treadmill but that sooooo sucks. Who wants to run in place in front of a huge mirror in front of you so you can contemplate how huge your thighs look? PLUS~~~~those numbers move soooo slow. Three miles feels like an eternity. Then you get someone who gets on the machine RIGHT NEXT TO YOU when there are at least seven others to choose from. Of course, this person usually is breathing super hard, wearing blue jeans and non-running shoes while attempting to run an eight minute mile.......... and then you wonder if your workout will be interupted because you will need to administer CPR to his dumb ***!! You couldn't just call out for help and leave since others there know your occupation..................Can you tell I am also PMSing?

freebies? we all love freebies!

details to follow (ooooh exciting I know. I hope you can make it until then without exploding from excitement!) BUT I have a Friday Freebie Giveaway this week at my site which I adore.

(The freebie I mean. I do adore the site but wouldnt post here to bore you with that :) the freebie? I "made" the company not send it to me to mail out as I would keep it...mine is wearing out!)


swing on by and throw your name (comment :)) in the hat to win.

www.MizFitOnline.com

never know what to reveal...

so lets just say one of our own is running a marathon this weekend and I WISH I could be there to CHEER HER ON!

But duty (aka out of town FAMILY) calls (me, well, OUT OF TOWN) so Im wishing her luck here.

wanna out yourself so we can all chime in?

(*wink*)

Inexperience therefore idiot about wine

OK gals, I keep hearing the positive health benefits of red wine. I also recently learned that purple grape juice is good but NOT AS good as actual wine ( something about the ETOH helping). Problem is, I've never been a fan of wine....(I know.....I can hear the stunned gasps.......) I myself am a martini / gin & tonic /jagermeister kind of lady. (Can one drink Jager and still be a lady?!?)
I need some help. I definately don't like dry wines AT ALL. I can only choke the stuff down if it is sweeter and fruity. Don't gag, but last night I tried a Shiraz......with Splenda in it. I could only get 1/2 a glass down which is 1/2 glass more than if it didn't have Splenda.
All suggestions appreciated!!

Dangers of Fiction

Whatever you do in your efforts to multi-task, DO NOT boil an egg at the same time that you sit down to work on that book you've been writing. I don't care if the baby is sleeping and you're just trying to get as much done at the same time as humanly possible. Just don't do it.

One more thought for Kimberly

I've gone round and round about whether I should put this up, but since I am who I am and cannot change that- I will. I have several people in my life who fit the bill Kimberly describes. I have truly found that praying FOR them helps. I pray for my heart to be softened towards them when they're driving me crazy. I pray for God to change them or me. I once bought the book Power of a Praying wife because I wanted to pray better for my husband. The book actually helped me deal with a long and painful acrimonious relationship with another family member. It still works.

Running for Sanity!

I have been stuck on the couch with a sick 4-year-old glued to me for 3 days now. Fortunately for me, my husband works out of the house so today, I begged him to take a long lunch so I could hit the gym for a quick run. I haven't run since Friday and was feeling the stress of a having a sick kid and being stuck in the house and seriously was ready to explode. Either he felt sorry for me or was terrified at my look of desperation (and it's also possible that I've been a bit of a bitch due to the stress....but I seriously doubt it!) because he happily took my spot on the couch at noon and off I went. I had 1 hour. One glorious hour out of the house! Allowing for the drive up and back, I decided to run for 45 minutes. I jumped on, cranked up the speed, put my head down and just ran. Within 5 minutes, I had forgotten about the fever, the snot, the coughing and the couch and was feeling so much better. Before I knew it, 46 minutes had gone by and it was time to go. But now that I'm back home and have 5 strong miles in, I'm in a much better place to hang out with Quinn. My patience is back and I'm no longer growling. Thank goodness I found running otherwise I'd be a total nut case.

Clean Well!! WOW!!

I received my CleanWell sample box today and LOVE IT!! Now, I don't get spun up easily......but honestly, if after trying this product you aren't fired up......your wood MUST be wet!!!
I love the scents ( I got the orange/vanilla),
I love it has no alcohol,
I LOVE the antibacterial hand spray which is soooo much better than the goopy gels!
As a RN, I was so sick of the goopy, antibacterial gels that really took a toll on my hands.
I love the way CleanWell uses essential oils and I think it is great how they took a personal family need and turned it into this product.
I love they use aloe and anti-oxidant ingredients too!!
I can't wait to try the the Ginger Bergamot!! I plan to switch all my handsoaps at home to CleanWell!
Signing off.....gonna go wash my hands again!!

iFriends

Chit-chatting on my long runs with the folks in my training group invigorates me. It takes my mind off perceived effort and makes the miles seem shorter. Often times, one decent story (say, how my friend's son has given up diapers yet isn't quite potty trained) can last a mile. And once the tears dry up after learning that the little boy just wanted access his penis "so it dodn't faw aff," I can look around and say "Whoa, we're already on Main St!"

A few months ago, I found some iFriends (to coin a phrase), for my solo running days. While searching for free stuff on iTunes, I stumbled upon a podcast called the Extra Mile. It's a bunch of runners from all over the globe that submit stories & running updates, recorded while they are running. Some are advanced, some brand new, but all have that slightly stecato speech that you get when you converse on the trail. I love it. And it trips me out when I hear a car coming, then look around to find an empty street followed by the runner announcing "Hold on, I've got to cross this intersection." Most of the episodes run around 60 minutes (pardon the pun), so I can stretch a 45 workout into an hour with less mental resistance. They accept submission from practically anyone, so if I ever figure out how to carry a recorder in my bra, you might hear my voice one day...and we can advance from being e-friends to iFriends.

Don't Leave Home Without...

You only need a flat tire 4 miles from home once to realize that you ought to bring a spare tire along. So, here’s what I consider the essential items to bring along for every run:

1. Water: some for everyone since the kids will never share when you want them to.
2. House keys
3. Cell phone for emergencies.
4. Road ID because I never remember to put my ID back in my wallet afterwards.
5. Hand pump
6. Spare inner tube* or patch kit
7. Tire levers
8. Extra diaper and wipes, if applicable
9. Optional: accessories for the weather such as blankets, snacks, etc.

*Small stroller wheels are usually 12”, medium are 16” and large are 20”. Your stroller tires and your older child’s bike tires might be the same size.

Yes!!!!!

I couldn't wait for her to read...I just knew she'd be a bookworm, just like I am. (I taught myself to read at the age of four) The love of books was slow to instill itself in her but at long last she can often be found with her nose deep in the pages of a book.
Same thing with running...I couldn't wait. She resisted. But this weekend she signed up for next year's 7th grade classes and guess what? She signed up for Cross Country!!!

YES!!!!

"I wonder how much running stuff you're going to get me, Mom."

"There's this girl, she carries, like, this bag, this big bag with all these logos, and it's full of stuff. She carries it everywhere. Am I going to have to carry one of those bags and like put it in my locker?"

"I hear the coach is mean."

Me: "I'll take care of the coach."

Her: "I don't like it when you do that."

Ah, a wonderful journey has begun.

Win a Free Pair of the new Robeez Tredz

Hiya ladies. Another fun giveaway happening at my site this week. I'll extend the deadline another 24 hours for all you runners too! Just email me at giveaways@classymommy.com to enter - and specify if you want to win a pair for a little girl or a pair for your little guy!

We were able to test out a pair pre-launch and they are definitely Classy Mommy Approved! This brand new and much anticipated line of "Tredz" shoes- is basically an "Outdoor" Robeez. Every Mom loves Robeez and now we can all love them longer as Robeez Tredz offers a durable sole for outdoor wear for little walkers. Robeez Tredz also still has a lightweight flexible sole to support healthy food development. 22 new fashionable designs with 3 sizes available - ranging from 12-24 months. I will be all over this stylish pair of Robeez Tredz for baby Kyle once he is old enough to wear them!

Last, but not least (I think)

I think I may be the very last of this group to give my two-cents worth regarding the Corazonas Tortilla Chips. You see, I'm a bit anal - probably a bit OCD to be honest. I could not just simply try each Corazonas Tortilla Chips flavor myself. I had to set up taste-tests for a few select family and friends. This was quite an interesting experiment and - of course - took a while to complete.

I started off my series of taste-tests when a friend of mine brought over her two children (ages 5 & almost 2) to play with my two girls (5-year-old twins). I put out the chips in individually labeled containers (did I mention I'm anal?) and all of us dove in. BY FAR - the Black Bean Dip flavor won out for all us. In fact, the 1 year old kept chips in each hand the whole time they were here. A close second was the Salsa Picante flavor.

The second taste-test involved my husband and my parents who were in town visiting. Now, my dad is a Ruffles man. He's not into any sort of "health" food and would be just fine never putting anything named "healthy" in his mouth (love ya Dad, but you know I'm right). I truly didn't think he would like any of the chips, because - even though they are good - they are not Ruffles (thank goodness). He actually liked the "Original" flavored ones the best. If nothing else came out of this whole "review" process, at least my Dad now knows some healthy things can actually taste good.

So, after a few more taste-tests involving additional friends and random people off the street (just kidding about that last part), we determined we really like these chips. The most popular flavors were the Black Bean Dip and Original, and we've been on the hunt for them in our local stores ever since.

women helping women

Im so touched by all the people reaching out to help kimberly with advice.
people who are willing to take their time to ponder what she wrote and offer their (asked for) .02

me? I didnt have anything too useful to add to what's already been said but DAMN it made me feel...happy? touched? hopeful for humanity? :) (Im not sure how to phrase it) just being part of a site like this where women work to SUPPORT other women.

every day I witness the other side.

I see women trying to make other women feel WORSE about themselves simply so that they (uh, woman number one :) I think Ive gotten muddled here) feel better about themselves.

I LOVE how we're all helpful supportive and encouraging here.

love.

now Im off to chase my daughter around our yard and DEEM IT A RUN.

hope you are all having good weekends as well.

Advice to Kimberly, cont. POWER

Full disclosure: It wasn't long ago that I was the person described by Kimberly, always negative and energy draining. I was fortunate enough to live somewhere where my inability to communcate forced me to observe my own tendencies in a person, namely my next door neighbor.

Chances are this person you describe is unhappy herself and is drawn to you in an effort to feed off of your positive energy. If this is the case, she deserves your utmost sympathy. My advice is to repeat what she says with a positive spin.
Ex. "The world is coming to an end."
Response. "I feel so fortunate to enjoy life now, while I can."

Also, breathing. Deep breaths, through the nose and into your abdomen, not your chest. Don't flinch and don't give her the power to affect you. This also applies to the very real possibility that she is truly just a mean person and enjoys the power of affecting people. It's hard to accept that some people are just plain old mean, I know. Just don't give her the power. Remember, breathe.

Now's also a good time for a mantra. For years, mine was: And this too shall pass.

You, my friend, are a long distance runner. Nobody's more powerful than that.

Good luck!
Steph

Response to Kimberly

Kimberly asks:

If someone makes you miserable every time you talk to them, and sucks the positive energy right out of your day, should you still talk to them?
What if you are related?
Do you need to offer up an explanation if they don't hear you anyway?
Do you continue to discuss issues with someone, when the person does what she wants to anyway?
Does a time come when you need to write someone off, even if you are related?
If so, how do you do so without guilt?

You've come to the right place. I am the absolute queen of making my own rules.

First of all, don't let other people make your rules. Just because someone has acted one way does not mean that a standard of behavior has been established. You have to then establish the more appropriate standard. I wouldn't suggest ignoring them, but do talk above them, use big words. They scare little people away.
If you are related--this one hurts. But stand your ground. Stand it, stand it, stand it. If you know you are right then that's all there is to it. You don't need to convince anybody of it. Your actions will speak for themselves.

The little guy just woke up. I'll continue this tomorrow.

Move over, Carolyn Hax!!

In Need of Advice...

In the absense of any running buddies (still pregnant), I decided to go the virtual route!

Here's my question:

• If someone makes you miserable every time you talk to them, and sucks the positive energy right out of your day, should you still talk to them?
• What if you are related?
• Do you need to offer up an explanation if they don't hear you anyway?
• Do you continue to discuss issues with someone, when the person does what she wants to anyway?
• Does a time come when you need to write someone off, even if you are related?
• If so, how do you do so without guilt?

Back to Basics

Today I went back to the lake where I first started running last April. I've been having a hard time staying motivated and have been feeling a wee bit sluggish and I thought I could use a fresh perspective on this running thing.
I only did a few laps around so it wasn't a long run by any means, but it was good for the brain. Good for the soul. It was just a nice relaxing run. For the first time in a very long time, I wasn't looking at the clock or the mileage or thinking about the half marathon. I just decided to run for the fun of it and stop whenever I felt like it and most importantly, not to stress about how little miles I had run. I've been spending so much time beating myself up over the mileage. I know I've got to log those miles in order to be prepared for May but sometimes, it seems to do more harm than good to constantly say to yourself "I can't believe you only ran 7 miles today! You'll never be ready!!" Seriously. Chill out woman and try to remind yourself that you started running because you enjoy it!

Run Around

As I've suggested before, I love my Polar running computer. I love analyzing and meditating on the mathematics of running: pace, distance, heart rate. Though an artist at heart, I can't help but be fascinated by the science of improvement & accomplishment...plus I manipulate the mechanics of math as a way to distract myself during the challenge of the last few miles. I never said I was cool.

The watch has played an integral part in me going from a Nervous Inexperienced Neophyte to a Confident Apprentice Spouting Off Random Running Statistics. On my early morning Running Checklist, my Polar running computer is number two (shoes being first). I could go on and on about how and why I like it...

But I'm going to use this post to lament that the Polar company neglected to allocate enough resources to customer service. That's the only explanation I can come up with on why, when I was forced to send it to New York in order to change a battery**, it took them nearly two weeks to acknowledge that they had even received my package. USPS told me it arrived 3 days after I sent it and who signed for it.

And after e-chatting with their Online Help , I learned that I'm apparently utterly ancient because I can't type out a real time conversation when I'm upset, but I didn't find out anything about my repair status.

Nearly two weeks after inquiring, I received a form e-letter promising to look into my case. I'm still waiting and wondering. I'm still trying to find out anything! Will I get it back for the next big race in 2 weeks? I wonder what it will cost (They insisted on authorizing a $75 charge and say that it will cost less than that, but there is no clear pricing). And how can they strong arm me into mailing it off 10 states away for a simple repair?


I love what my Polar watch has done for my running, but I could do without the run around.

**I'm insanely furious about there only being a handful of "authorized dealers" to change a friggin' battery, but that's beside the point.

Hello, My name is Sherry and I am an......

I am an addict to the dang electronic log on SMR. Thanks alot Katy!! Since I started using it nearly a month ago I became obsessed. I knew I had crossed the line today when I still ran. You see, I am VERY allergic to Kiwi and Latex which puts me at risk for other Plant protien allergies. I knew that.....I still ate the dang Mango and I reacted. But STILL, I had to achieve my weekly goal to contribute to my yearly goal (once again....THANKS Katy....yes...I am being a little sarcastic.....) So off I went, baby in stroller, hives and angioedema all over my face and did an easy-go-it 3 miler close to home. The cool wind felt pretty good on my swollen face but the antihistamines make me feel like I was in the 70s..............

Fa: A Long Long Way to Run!

I’ve recently taken to doing nap time runs. My 2-year-old son has given up napping, but could use the break plus it is much warmer than the morning. AND I only have to push a single stroller since his sister is at school!

Without his older sister to distract and entertain him, however, I have come to recall the power of SINGING!

Some examples that my 2-year-old is particularly fond of right now:

“Bumpity, bump, bump. Bumpity, bump, bump. Look at (fill in child(ren)’s name(s) here) go! Bumpity, bump, bump. Bumpity, bump, bump. Over the rocky road!”

“Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall. Humpty Dumpty had a great FAAAALLLL (tip stroller back). All the king’s horses and all the king’s men couldn’t put Humpty together again!”

“Old MacDonald” – using an animal for every letter of the alphabet or every animal he can find in his animal crackers, if applicable.

And of course, all the old stand-bys like “ABC” or “I’m a Little Teapot” (you can tip them over for that one too) or any other song that could continue indefinitely…

• What are your favorite songs to sing with your kids?

My first time...

it's still fresh in my mind. The year was 1970-something and the nation had just caught jogging fever. My father, who also became entangled in the pop psychology craze of the day, became an immediate and (briefly) dedicated runner. Every time he donned those blue satin short with gold piping and oh-so-cool Nike jogging shoes, I was right there.
"Can I go? Can I go??"
He would have told me no had it not been for my mother, elbow deep in dinner preparation, who made it clear that I should be allowed to tag along.
And I ran. With my father.
I don't know if he slowed down for me, but I always managed to keep up through the golf course and across the base.
I'd caught the bug. I was a runner.

Tell me about your first time...

shout out

Okay, so y'all have totally inspired me. Here's a shout-out: All running mommies in the historical district, McKinney, Tx...let's traipse these streets together...

HaHa...I just typed the label wrong: SeeMommyRum

HAPPY GROUND HOG DAY!!

I love this holiday and clung to it (and the movie. Phil? Phil Conners?) when I lived in Pennsylvania as I DETESTED WINTER and always prayed for spring.

now that Im a transplanted texan we STILL throw a yearly shindig to celebrate it.

here's to the groundhog and to all of US!

happy spring is around the corner day!

perhaps make these as I did: http://familyfun.go.com/recipes/family/cake/cake_grndhog_0203/



edited for pics:

Baby Toes

Hello Running Mommies:

Today I sat in the rocker nursing my 13 month old and spent some time contemplating her beautiful baby feet and toes. They were just perfect. They fit in the palm of my hand and each tiny toe is perfectly formed. I looked at them for a while and caressed them, tickled them, kissed them and was in awe.

The thoughts took me to my size 10 maybe 10 1/2 not so beautiful feet/toes. I've always had big feet - at least the same size as my husband and definitely wider. Insults of all insults these flappers even got bigger with each baby. Size 9 seems petite to me these days. The thing is. I love these feet despite their very unfeminine girth. They have gotten me far. They've done 26.2 twice without complaining. They love to walk, they really love to run and they do not ask much. I'm alawys amazed that my husband never makes fun of them. They really are pretty ugly, but maybe because I love them so much they do not offer themselves up to ridicule. Lace them up and away we go........

Smiles,
Trice

Treadmill Etiquette

Whenever I go to the gym, the treadmills are always set to allow you 60 minutes followed by a 2 (sometimes 3) minute cool down. The time of day that I usually go to the gym is pretty good because there are always free treadmills and I've never seen a wait but I still get off after that hour is up. My question: can I turn it right back on and run more? I really want to keep my mileage up but can only go so far in 60 minutes, obviously. If there is no line, is it still rude to turn that puppy back on? I'm a crazy obsessed rule follower and am convinced that the gym-police are going to come after me if I keep going. Oh, and the gym I go to does not have any sign posted such as ones I've seen that say "There is a 30 minute limit on all cardio equipment"...I saw one like that at a different gym I went to yesterday. That one got to me too because there was no one waiting. Sigh. I obviously need advice because the last thing I want to be is 'that rude woman' at the gym!

Stats: ING Miami 2008

Number of people who signed up for a 17-week training program to complete a Half Marathon: 35
Number of runners who made it to the Starting Line: 30
Number of training program "drop-outs" whose injuries were not running related: 4
Number of runners who completed the Half Marathon they spent 17 weeks training for: 30
Number of runners who either met or beat their "goal time": 27
Number of runners who were more than 10 minutes slower than goal time: 0
Number of First Time Half Marathon finishers: 25
Number of runners who are meeting me next Saturday to prepare for the next race: 23


******Oops...should have stated that this post is a follow-up to this post*****

Get me out the door

I'm so glad January is almost gone. I just cannot get out the door. I'm cold. I'm tired, I'm busy, waa waa waa. Gosh, I cannot stand myself. I need some warmth.

Our Little World got me thinking....

and EAGER to hear how you guys stay motivated.

this quote?

-------
here I am, back home, full of horrible non-energizing food and totally derailed from all things training and healthy
-------
well, I havent had a vacation in AGES but still manage to resemble that about once a week.

For me the motivation ISNT a skinny celeb(utante) it's a photo of myself in a better place (and Im not talking St Barts).

I slap that sucker up on the fridge and even those Ore Ida 99 cent microwave fries seem to call me a LITTLE less loudly.

Redux

Okay, I don't know why the information is not appearing, so I'll try it again. I couldn't find a link, so here goes, verbatim:
Physically active people have cells that look younger on a molecular level than those of couch potatoes, according to new research.
A study of British twins found that exercise appears to slow the shriveling of the protective tips on bundles of genes inside cells, perhaps keeping frailty at bay.
"These data suggest that the act of exercising may actually protect the body against the aging process," said Tim Spector, a professor of genetic epidemiology at King's College in London who led the study, published Monday in the Archives of Internal Medicine.
Previous research has shown that being physically active reduces the risk of heart disease, cancer and other diseases, potentially extending longevity. In the hopes of helping explain how, Dr. Spector and his colleagues examined structures known as telomeres.
Every time a cell divides, telomeres get shorter. Scientists believe that aging occurs as cells reach the end of their telomeres and die--muscles weaken, skin wrinkles and thinking clouds.
Dr. Spector and his colleagues analyzed telomeres collected from 2,401 twins participating in a long-term health study. The length of the twins' telomeres was directly related the their activity levels, the researchers found.
People who did a moderate amount of exercise--about 100 minutes a week--had telomeres that on average looked like those of someone about five or six years younger than those who did the least--about 16 minutes a week. Those who did the most--about 3 hours a week--had telomeres that appeared to be about nine years younger than those who did the least.
Other researchers said the findings are intriguing.
"It's another jigsaw piece in trying to understand why exercise is important in longevity," said Stephen Coles, who studies aging at UCLA.

Original source: The Washington Post

Vacations Mess With Your Mojo

I just got back from spending 4 relaxing days in Florida. You would think that after all the complaining I do about running in the cold weather, I would jump at the opportunity to run while down south. Yeah. You would think. So what did I do? Well, the gym had a fancy-pants treadmill with a T.V. attached so I just had to give it a go. I got on it and watched T.V. for an hour, churning out 6.5 miles then went back to my room, showered then met my husband at the bar where I proceeded to enjoy some beers and anything with melted cheese on top. And so went the next 3 days. Sigh. And now here I am, back home, full of horrible non-energizing food and totally derailed from all things training and healthy! Yikes! The second I drop my 4-year-old off at preschool tomorrow, I'm hitting the gym. With any luck, I'll be able to run for 3 miles on the treadmill without passing out. Better eat salad and fish for dinner.
How do you guys stay motivated while on vacation? And more importantly for me right now, how do you get back into it once you get home if you fell off the training wagon while away?

This just in...

Hello fellow Fountain of Youth Discoverers! Came across an article in today's paper. It seems that exercise may be protecting your body from the aging process! Yes, you heard me right, exercise may be protecting your body from the aging process. To quote my source (The Dallas Morning News) "A study of British twins found that exercise appears to slow the shriveling of the protective tips on bundles of genes inside cells, perhaps keeping frailty at bay...People who did a moderate amount of exercise--about 100 minutes a week (this is where you marathoners snicker) had telomeres that on average looked like those of someone five or six years younger than those who did the least--about 16 minutes a week. Those who did the most--about three hours a week--had telomeres that appeared to be about nine years younger than those who did the least."

I don't know about you, but when I see unfit, indulgent, undisciplined people, I hurt for them. Exercise is difficult to cultivate into one's lifestyle--I will not try to deny it, but the payoff...whoa, Nelly!

I don't exercise because I want to be hot (okay, it would be really nice to be hot), I exercise because I want to enjoy old age. I want to crawl on the floor with my son. I want to climb trees with my daughter. I want to...never mind, that's private.

I thought you would find this information interesting. If you care to follow up, Stephen Coles, who studies aging at UCLA, was quoted in the article. I'm sure a quick Google would bring up a wealth of information.

And Congratulations on your good health!

Stroller Activities

Some of our favorite things to do in the stroller while enclosed inside the windshield , in order of increasing desperation:

• Draw or color. I LOVE Crayola Color Wonder markers. They don’t get ink all over their hands, faces, and clothes, and the markers don’t get peeled and broken into pieces like crayons. (Do avoid the Color Wonder finger paints, however. Obviously not good for the stroller, but even at home they are very oily and will stain your expensive windbreaker.)
• Read books. Younger kids just look at the pictures, but when you are not running near traffic, you can actually read the pages to them – especially books that you’ve already memorized.
• Look for animals. When you see geese, HONK! When you see dogs, BARK! When you see birds, CHIRP! My kids do a mean seagull! Very convincing ;)
• Eat. Quickly, some good stroller snacks are a dry bagel, peeled and cored apple, string cheese or snack mix with things like Cheerios, raisins and pretzels. Bad stroller snacks are things like dry instant oatmeal, American cheese slices, anything with cream cheese, or chewy granola bars which crumble apart and are STILL sticky.
• Music. We’ve always sung as we ran along, but this winter, we’ve sunk to a new low: kid headphones. We’ve commandeered my husband’s iPod shuffle, loaded it with kid songs, and bought a splitter and two pairs of headphones designed for use by children. I am very careful to keep the volume low to protect their young ears. Plus they keep the kids’ ears warm.

The novelty of the headphones seems to have negated the undesirable weather for my little passengers. In the spring, I’ll share our version of “Stroller Bingo”.

• What is the best or worst stroller snack you've tried?
  

Win a pair of FREE Polliwalks at Classy Mommy

Hi Ladies - We're giving away a pair of these cute Polliwalks Clogs at Classy Mommy. We reviewed them and my active 2 year old loves them!!!! The sole of the shoe leaves a footprint in sand, mud, or dirt and they are shaped in the style of adorable animals.

Click here to find out how to enter! Visit Classy Mommy to read the full review too!

Marathon Mantra

I, and my beloved TeamFootworks, will be participating in the ING Miami Marathon tonight (well, technically, it's tomorrow, but we'll be getting up SO early that I think you can call it Saturday night still). I am doing the Half, while many of my friends will be going for the Full Monty.

I live pretty close to the end of the course (actually, watching the medley of people go by a few years back got me into running, but that's another tale) so I plan on getting back home in time to help them not bonk at "the wall." In doing so, I scoured the internet for some "inspirational" words for posters/signs. Since I my eyes began to water (then again, Publix commercials make me weep), I thought I'd share ones I enjoyed.

• Pain is just weakness leaving your body (silly, but I pondered that one for TEN miles at last years marathon and it got me through).
• You made it to the START, you will make it to the FINISH
• This mile marker is farther than most will ever reach.
• Cold Beer & Hot Showers, Cold Beer & Hot Showers, Cold Beer & Hot Showers
• Pain is temporary, Pride is forever
  
• Relax, Power, Glide
• 1, 3, 5, 2, 4 (I found counting out of order over and over again made me concentrate hard on the numbers not the shin splints)
  

I'd like to hear your running mantras or inspirational running quotes.

Set the Animals Free - It Will Improve My Time

My crew (4 out of the 5 of us) are running in the Zoo Run Run today. Thankfully, it won't be as cold as it was yesterday (in the 20's - AUGH). They are calling for 50 degree weather, which suits me just fine.

Now - if they will just release a few of the more carnivorous animals then I might be able to beat my best time. Nothing like a cheetah and a tiger chasing you down to make you hustle!

25th High School Reunion

Hi Mommies,

I tried to add a picture from my 25th High School Reunion. Yes, that would be 1982. I would have had big hair in 1982 if I could have made my flat hair get higher. The gal on the left has been my best friend since we were 4 years old(yoga queen). I'm happily in red. I think the pic is showing in my profile and not here. I'm technically challenged.
Trice

Flashback

I was running errands today when "We are an American Band" came on the radio.....I was instantly teleported back to High School; no longer driving a minivan with carseats.......but instead I had painted on jeans, big 80s hair, drinking a beer and driving around with all my other "cool friends" in a gas hog complete with big dice on the mirror...............I wonder when I am 60 if I will flashback to this time period with minivan and carseats when I hear a Nickelback song on the radio?

It's all in the arms

Hello Running Mommies,

Forgive the absence. I went to Boston to pick up my 85 year old Grammy and get her out of the snow for a few months. While I was there I met with my friends I've known since the 6th grade. They were all asking about running. I'm the only one who runs. Two are big into yoga, one goes to the gym for various things and the other is just a natural beauty who does not seem to need much. It reminded me of last years's trip to NY to see some friends who are also my age. It was May and several had sleeveless tops. It was at that time that I thought Mommy arms need working out. It is a total age give away if your arms (triceps)are flabby. Two of the friends are really thin/in-shape, but had flabby arms. I remember thinking how do I ever say it?? Do I ever say it? Would I want someone to say it to me since I know my abs could use a ton of work? Do we tell other Mommies? Are we quiet? I think I'm going to say it as a revelation group moment that I've realized arms count as you age. Running Mommies already have great legs.

My Grammy by the way has always worked out. She's younger than my 65 year old Mommy. She's an inspiration. It is awesome to be around her and soak up the knowledge. She's wise, funny, and joyful. I want to be just like her.

If I go it will be trouble. If I stay it will be double.

Cold weather – Part 2

(Thanks to The Clash for so accurately describing my dilemma!)

This struggle is the same whether you are heading out on a 10 mile run or just going for a walk around the block. Similar prep for a bike trailer too, so hopefully in this series, there is something for everyone.

So, once you’re going- how to prep the kids? Make it exciting and inevitable. Exciting: “Hey kids! Let’s go see if the lake is frozen yet!” Inevitable: the kids will tell if you are dreading it and they will find a way to weasel out of it if they sense any weakness. If you’re looking for an out, they are going to find one for you. You now how it can take weeks to finally get to the post office, but doing (fill in the blank) never seems to be a problem. Same idea.

Make sure that the kids are dressed well for the weather conditions. They will be happier if they are comfortable and you’ll get fewer dirty looks from other runners and walkers for taking your babies out in the cold. My general rule of thumb is to dress them in what I am wearing PLUS one complete extra layer. Don’t forget their little toesies. Below about 40 my daughter complains her feet are too cold in regular shoes so she’ll wear boots. And blankets. This is a great use for all those fleece baby blankets. My kids just throw their mittens out of the stroller anyway so tucking their hands inside the blanket works best for us. I recommend ONE PER CHILD. Sharing one is unlikely to work.

Finally, don’t forget yourself! Key item for running in cold with stroller: MITTENS. You can’t tuck your hands inside your sleeves anymore! Plus the standard advice: a moisture-wicking inside layer, a wind-blocking outer layer if it is particularly windy or cold and to cover the extremities (hat, gloves, etc.). My friend runs with socks on her hands rather than fancy gloves. Then when you blow your nose on your “mittens” – you know you do it too - you can just throw them in the wash and wear a different pair next time.

nothing new in cold rainy texas but

an addiction to THIS:




and THIS:



the first is a FANTIZTASTIC high protein cereal Ive found.
I love that it's sold in individual packages as I hath no selfcontrol and it was embarrassing to have an entire box in my diaper bag.


the second? Wilton's Giant Cupcake Pan. Love. If I could (alltogethernow) Id marry that sucker.

it's THAT great.

(and, alas, Im not making any money off these endorsements so you KNOW Im being honest.)

Corazonas and...candles??

I was SO excited to receive a package full of Corazonas chips (thank you, Andrea and Corazonas!), and quickly realized that my family could never eat them all even though they are SO yummy. So I took them to a friend's candle party and everyone was totally getting into "taste testing" them and commenting on each flavor. They were more popular than the candles!! The candle representative even offered to trade candles with me for my bag of Baja Bean Dip (of course I told her no - it's my favorite too)!! Here's the email I got the next morning from her:

"I immediately had to Google the chips to find out where I could get them. feel free to pass the info along to the ladies at the party............If you need to find me I will be at Safeway first thing tomorrow buying 10 bags of the Baja Bean Dip. =)

http://www.corazonas.com/locate.php "

Shelly

Wardrobe? Check!

Since I can't run, or even touch my toes (34 weeks pregnant as of today), the most I can do is plan my next race...which I hope will be this year's marine corps marathon. By the time my doctor okays me to run (post C-section) I will have just over 6 months to train. I've already started planning my wardrobe:

Psych T-shirt. I've decided to wear it for the following reasons:

1. It's light weight.
2. It has cap sleeves that shouldn't cause chafing while running.
3. The back of it says "I sense you're following me." If you've ever run a marathon, you know how wonderful this is!

Bunny Funny

And now: our daily funny.

Tapering

A little over a year ago, I bought a Polar Running Computer, or, as my husband calls it: "a watch that can't tell time". I picked it out, paid for it out of his account and told him to wish me a Happy Birthday. He wasn't convinced it was a good idea. Not just because my normally frugal tastes suddenly discovered opulence, but perhaps he was thinking of how my interest always tapers a few months after declaring "my new passion."

Me: But it can tell me how fast I'm running, how far I've gone, how much time I have left for my intervals, what my heart rate is and how many calories I burned. My god, I just burned 34 calories having this conversation!

Him: Hmmph.

But something amazing happened: I kept using it. Soon, I switched from 2:1's to 3:1's. Then I had to add 4:1's and 5:1's. I used it on Saturday morning long runs. I used it on a couple weekday runs. I started taking it into the pool, and measuring how long it took me to bike to the gym or to my son's school. And now the "Batteries are Low" symbol just came on. It's supposed to last 2 years with "average usage." Instead of being annoyed that it hasn't lasted that long, I'm proud I've worn it down quicker.

I'm 10 days out from the ING Miami Half Marathon, so I'm forced to thin out my workout schedule. Funny how the one "craze" I can devote myself to incorporates tapering.

HELP!!

I need advice. My son was born by C-section--he was a 9 lb 12 oz breech baby--and the doctor stitched me a little...tight. I've been working hard to lose my belly but while the rest of me is fitter than a fiddle, I just can't seem to lose this blob. Advice needed! Should I confront the doctor about the mis-stitch? Should I just live with it?

I smite thee Billy Blanks!

I had a bit of a rough night - one of my twin critters decided our room was the party room at 2am this morning and ended up in our bed - lovely. She is not the most pleasant person to sleep with and - for a 5 year old - she can take up the same amount of space in our bed as a large Great Dane. Ahhhh....so comfortable.

What does this have to do with the price of Juicy Fruit at the Piggly Wiggly (remember, I'm from the South y'all)?

Well, the alarm went off this morning and I just couldn't drag my butt out of bed early enough to make it to the gym. I did eventually get up, but knew I couldn't make it to the gym and back before my hubby had to head to work. Dang it! So I decided to dust off one of my old workout DVD's - specifically a Tae Bo DVD. Billy Blanks at his best.

I popped the DVD in the DVD player and that's when it happened. To put it bluntly - Billy kicked my ass! I haven't done that DVD in months, but have been working out regularly at a rather high intensity level for quite some time now. I thought I would - for sure - be able to handle his workout without any problems. I made it through, but I am already sore through my shoulders and butt.

Hmmmm...I may have to reconsider my workout routine and start including Billy and his evil roundhouse kicks into my weekly schedule. Maybe if I just pretend I am kicking Billy in the face....that would probably make me feel better.

Training Log

I've been an active member of SMR for nearly three years now and JUST discovered the personal training log on the site. I started using it this year and found it quite motivating. I'm not sure if I would have even bothered if I hadn't read a blog on the Manassas VA SMR team site......you see, I looked because I figured that I'd know a couple of gals on the team. I read one of their blogs that described how one of them has set her New Year's goal for 1000 mile ran in 2008 (Katy). I thought....CRAZY!!!! Then I felt completely incompetent to be on one of these teams. Then I started calculating in my head......I run more than I think I do. (Perhaps a little ADHD??!!) Granted, I am no where close to 1K, but 500 would seem like a reasonable goal for me. That would be only averaging 1 and a third miles a day for the year. Put that way it seems easy (hahaha!!) I even log "non running" training just to keep track. Anyways, if you haven't checked it out, give it a try or maybe even set your goal for 1001 miles (Just to motivate Katy!!).

oh the irony...

that it's cold here for here so no running hath occurred and Im now working.

on a column.

all about music as motivation.

and actually, not shockingly, now am motivated to RUN.

and have to work.

ASTAVITA take two

Oh, and the texture of my skin has improved, too. I forgot to say that earlier. It's kind of hard to stick with a train of thought when there's a 10 month frolicking amongst the computer's cables after successfully redistributing the contents a crate stuffed with papers that his parents should have put out of his reach a long time ago-- like when he first became mobile--and maybe that's just what they'll do tonight. Tonight, Honey. I promise.

Of course, my son's version of the event is: "It's kind of hard to frolic amongst the computer's cables and redistribute papers when my mom's watching me."

Believe who you want to, either way my skin texture has improved since I started taking the supplement.

ASTAVITA!!

I am so pleased that Astavita has agreed to sponsor seeMOMMYrun! I know it's only been a week since I started taking the antioxidant and that the results I am seeing are not typical, at least they're not according to the literature I have so far seen, but I have to tell you...WOW!
The first of the promised effects is my vision. As a writer, I spend quite a bit of time staring at this screen, which is really funny considering that I have problems focusing. Reading for information has historically been a real problem for me, the muscles of my eyes just don't want to do it. Since taking the Astavita supplement, however, I have definitely noticed an improvement in my vision.
Second, endurance. I have definitely felt the sensation of having the wind at my back. I just go. It's fantastic.
Thirdly, I am just more AWARE, less emotional. I am able to assess situations around me in a more rational, less reactive way.

I am sharing my supply of supplements with my husband, who has joint issues. I'll be interested to see how that turns out.

Thanks Astavita and thanks seeMOMMYrun for making such a positive impact on the quality of my life!

Treadmill Reviews Needed!

My husband and I are thinking about making the big fat investment into a treadmill. Oh. My. Gosh. Do you have any idea just how many treadmills are out there!? And the price ranges! I'm completely confused and desperate for some help. Anyone have a treadmill they just love? Or hate even? Costco has two right now, the Ironman Envision for $999 and the Smooth Fitness 7.1 for $1,499. $1499?? Is this supposed to be a bargain? Help! Please! (Sorry! I'll! Stop! Yelling! Now!)

Corazonas Rock!!!

I know you have heard from a couple of us about the Corazonas chips but I just had to throw my opinion out there too!
I am in love. In love, in love, in love. So much so that today, as soon as I dropped my son off at preschool, I went on a road trip in search of the one Safeway in Reston, VA that, according to Corazonas website, sells these little pieces of heaven. I finally found it, after hitting multiple strip malls (yes, I should have done the map quest thing but I haven't been thinking clearly since I ran out of Baja Bean Dip chips!!!) and nearly lay down in the chip isle crying when I found that they didn't have that flavor! I did pick up multiple (I refuse to admit how many) bags of the Picante Salsa flavor though! They sell them on Amazon so as soon as I see the Baja Bean Dip there, I will personally purchase them all so don't even get in my way! Wow. I need to settle down.
Anyhow, today I was on Washington Running Report checking out the race calendar and saw this super nice shout out to SeeMommyRun and the incredible Andrea Vincent!!! How cool is that!? I got all warm and fuzzy knowing that I play a tiny little part in such an incredible organization - way to go Andrea!

I've got a little light...

And I'm going to let it shine! I love my son's age. It's that magical time when he starts bouncing to music, clapping and cheering because the mood has suddenly overtaken him, when he smiles so wide that Joy can be seen coming out of his eyes...it's my favorite time. We listen to XM Kids during the day and I don't know who loves the songs more, him or me. But I've got a little light, and I'm going to let it shine. I have a new favorite recording artist, too: Bari Koral Family Rock Band!


Talk about some music for the iPod!

info@chipperjerky.com

OOPS.

got more than a few personal emails congratulating me on my FINALLY getting the CHIPPER to sponsor me (I eat 3 or 4 cannisters a day. it is a FANTASTIC SOURCE OF PORTABLE PROTEIN!!)

alas


no


please feel free to join in my email writing campaign (*wink*).


I figure I get that company *so* much (referral) business they should at least sell me my addiction WHOLESALE, right?


Please to note, CHIPPER PEOPLE as I know youre out there somewhere, that the attached bicep would be so much plumper if you'd allow me to consume without regards to (obsessing about)price!


Love,

Carla

See Mommy Think and Run

Wow- blessings of 50-60 degree weather mean running outside. This week I ran at lunch with one child at gymnastics being cared for by Dad, one child finishing up homeschooling, one sweet baby napping, and one in school. I ran for all I was worth. My stride felt great, the air great, no heavy winter wear. I ran by the Warrior Transition building. It changed me. This is where the wounded from Iraq and Afghanistan come to be made whole again before transitioning to the civlian world or to stay in the Army. They walk by me all the time. I see them coming and going and this day it hit me that I'm blessed my husband is not deployed and we are both physically well. I just want to Praise God for the ability to know this today.

things I wonder:

How channelmarker's birthday was and what her moniker means.

if Ill have enough cake at my toddlers birthday party on saturday and whether I shall regret that cupcake-cake decision as you can cut sheet cake pieces tiny if need be.

if Ill ever succeed in convincing the folks at CHIPPER JERKY to sponsor me when, in answer to their query, Im pressed to admit that I dont really "do" anything requiring sponsorship except my LIFE.


How Crumbs is such a FUNNY writer and if she's equally hilarious in person.

what else is on steph's wish list.

if I can "catch" S. Kimzey Daniels' positive attitude.


if shelley has gotten back her ME TIME yet.


how on earth andrea does it all?!


why clothes makers think if I need petite inseams on my pants I must ALSO long for pleats in front.


what's for dinner.

A New Kind of Burn

In my effort to get in more cross training, I headed to the gym today, my off-running day, for the cardio machines. I have an elliptical at my house and did that on Tuesday but wanted to try something new. First, I worked the rowing machine for 25 minutes. I really like to row. It's totally different, uses a ton of upper body strength and you can really feel it in your abs as well. After that, I jumped onto the stationary bike. I've always avoided the bike because (a) it looks so boring and, (b) the majority of times that I have seen anyone on the bike, they are leisurely reading a magazine or book while slowly working the peddles and I've always thought "that is so NOT a workout!" I was totally unprepared for what I felt when I went for my first spin today. I'm up to 11 miles in my running and although I'm making an effort to get my cross training in to gain more leg strength, I didn't think I would feel like a weakling on a bike! After 2 minutes, I wanted off. Off now! I was feeling muscles in my legs I didn't even know I had! What in the world is going on here?! How is it that I have never once tried a bike?? So tell me, does biking really use totally different muscles than running or was I doing it wrong? I'd like to assume I wasn't doing it wrong because I didn't fall off, but then, that's probably not the right indicator!

EDITED to add: I hope I didn't offend anyone with my stationary bike talk...I didn't mean it like it's not a super intense workout, just the opposite - I am currently limping around my house!! I'm not worthy!!! I'm not worthy!!

Freebie Alert! Get your Copy of the "What to Expect Guide to a Healthy Home"

Wow this is Freebie Alert I had to share with everyone!

Get your Copy of the "What to Expect Guide to a Healthy Home" written by Heidi Murkoff, the author of the "What to Expect" book just about every pregnant mom in the US has referenced a zillion times in their pregnancies! Heidi donated her time to create this fabulous guide to a healthy home as part of a partnership with the Clorox Company. Clorox donated $1 Million to the What to Expect Foundation to support the Baby Basics Program wich helps families in need expect healthier pregnancies, safer deliveries, and happier babies.

You can download the book and/or order your FREE copy here! This website also has tons of useful tips and seems to be a super resource. Classy Mommy was able to review a copy of this guide and I found it very useful as a reference guide for things I need to frequently remind myself - ie how can we keep foods safe, where are we most likely to pick up germs, what are some good flu fighting tips, and now that I have a newborn baby again - what are the rules on freezing, defrosting, and storing breastmilk!

BIrthday reflection

I am sitting here in relative quiet, which is rare in my household, thinking about how this is the last day of being ?? years old. Tomorrow is my birthday, and although I won't be hitting the next decade, it is now so close that I can feel it's breath on the back of my neck. Twenty, ten or even 5 years ago I would not have pictured my life the way it truly turned out. That's not a bad thing and actually it is better than I could have imagined.
In my teens I just wanted to be in my 20s, in my early 30s I felt like I was in my 20s and now, I just feel pretty content. I always had looked forward to 40s. I had my first two boys when I was too young, but that also meant they'd be grown or close to it when I was 40. I used to be a career ladder climber, knowing I would oh so be the big kahoona by 40. Top of my game, money, time.........but as chance had it, I met the love of my life and re-thought and re-planned. Trust me, I don't take to change all so well and didn't transistion so well in the beginning. Now, here I am; career on hold, stay-at-home mom with two more boys who I have had to unique opportunity to learn from all my previous parenting mistakes in addition to staying at home with them. When I was the "career gal" and my first two were babies, I really thought stay-at-home moms didn't have a real life.....had it soooo easy. Boy, have I learned my lesson by walking (even running now) in those shoes.
What is that old saying? Life is what happens when you are busy planning it. No, I am certainly not where I thought I'd be but, boy have I been pleased with how it all turned out anyways. I am looking forward to all the suprises life throws at me during my last year of this decade. I've even registered for a 1/2 marathon this year when the farthest I've ever run is 7 miles....wish me luck (they do let you walk some don't they?? ;) ).

On the Run

Long Distance Running isn't for everyone.

Your doctor won't tell you, but some people should not run for more than an hour: the guilty (the truly guilty). Or the ashamed. Or the secretive. For there is a seldom discussed aspect of Long Distance Running you should be aware of before venturing out with a group of others; a phenomenon that occurs approximately 1 1/2 hours into a run (although it has been known to occur as soon as 1 hour): your body releases Truth Serum.

It is subtle at first. You'll begin with a story about how you told your children that all of the Snicker's bars in their Halloween stash were tainted & unsafe so that you could eat them all, but then you'll find deeper secrets bubbling to the surface. You'll then tell your running partners how you once stood buck naked outside your crappy college house with another female roommate to see if any of the cars driving by would notice - and how they didn't. Then you'll get mushier...or darker...or weepier...or more conceited. No one reacts the same to the endorphins, but EVERYONE opens up. So if you've got a deep, dark secret (like how you're running from the law), I'd stick to 10K's if I were you.

Unless you need to take a load off your shoulders.

ABC, easy as 123......

While running today, I got alot of looks and giggles.......................
For Christmas Santa brought me a "stroll a tune" from www.joggermom.com, conveniently located on www.seemommyrun.com!! If you aren't aware, it is a small speaker system that connects to your IPOD and onto the handlebar of the stroller. The first time I used it was listening to my music which was pretty nice. Today, I took out my double, with my double trouble two boys (18 & 36 months), who usually love to fight the entire time. Instead of "my" music, I down-loaded a "babies run" play list from educational toddler songs, oh yeah, and a little classic Michael Jackson ( they really like his music??). Anyways, it made the run so much more fun for them and so much more enjoyable for me since they behaved the whole time. The B-I-N-G-O and A-B-Cs, didn't do much for motivating me (Except when Michael sang ABC....Easy as 123....) but I didn't have fighting boys encouraging me to head home either. The people I passed along the way got a good snicker out of hearing us jam to those tunes too!!

Im in love.

I oft tell my husband that, if I could, Id marry various items in my life.

For example I purchased a fan for the room where I do the stationary bike and it FREAKIN CHANGED MY LIFE. Ceiling fan? WHATEVER. FanRightUpCloseToMySweatyBod? Adore.

I informed my hubby that if I could Id marry it. He could still be hubby number one (my ARCHOS 404 is husband number two. GOOGLE IT. It's amazatastic. number 3? a secret (*wink*))

Husband number four? These things:




Blahblahblah heart-healthy, yes.

But they are TASTY as well and Im not normally a chip fan (Im sugar. Lots of sugar).

Check out the flavors here: http://www.corazonas.com/products/mmm-mmm_chips.html

my personal favorite? margarita lime.

my toddler's? baja bean dip (weird. I know.)

my husband was just OVER THE MOON that free chips appeared on our doorstep.

THANKS ANDREA & CORAZONAS!

disclaimer: Im blogging about stuff other than runningexercising...

but Im still doing it.

really.

I just know you MIGHT not wanna hear all about how warm it is here in Austin TX and how fantastic it is to don SHORTS in January.

(see? I told you...although as I type that I do ponder the notion that not everyone loves the heat as I.)

so I give you a site which is new but makes me LAUGH:

http://www.stuperb.com/


read.

laugh.

submit.

:)

R.S.V.P.

Shelley gave me a great idea about how to amend my Wish List. You see, in addition to the beautiful home on 10+ acres in the countryside, I now wish to add that the house should be equipped with a gourmet kitchen and spacious living area so that when you all come over for dinner or the weekend (because you'll want to ride the horses, of course, and your husbands will want to play golf on my husband's private course), we will all be comfortable and able to enjoy ourselves.
So, this is my R.S.V.P. to my own invitation to the life I have been working so hard to live.

(Naturally, I also plan to provide all of the children with activities, as well.)

See you then!
Steph

Should I Stay Or Should I Go Now?

Cold Weather – Part 1

It is cold out, but is it TOO cold out? It is personal decision with lots of conflicting opinions out there but here are the factors I consider:

How to decide what is too cold:

1. What is the temperature outside? I use 30-32° F as an approximate minimum temperature for jogging with the kids in the stroller. Older kids can handle colder temperatures and will be able to verbalize that they are too cold if that becomes a problem. When my son, a November baby, was a newborn, my minimum temperature was closer to 40° F.
2. Is it windy? In winter sailing (aka frostbiting), there is an unofficial guideline called the “20-20 rule”. If it is colder than 20° F and windier than 20 knots, they cancel. Some wind is inevitable, but you may want to find a more sheltered route. For example, try a route through a neighborhood or among lots of trees rather than a path along a river or over bridges. You probably want a headwind first to get it done while you still have more energy.
3. Is there precipitation or an imminent threat of precipitation? Snow is actually very fun to run in. (Sing “Jingle Bells,” “Let It Snow,” and “Winter Wonderland” as you run.) Sleet or excessively slippery conditions should be avoided. Strollers come with a runaway strap: USE IT!
4. Do you have weather-appropriate equipment? A rain shield is invaluable! There is one to fit nearly every model of jogger at www.joggingstrollers.com and surely elsewhere. It is a great windshield and keeps the temperature inside the stroller very pleasant – we’re talking greenhouse here.
5. How badly do you need to get out? That “cabin fever” will keep everyone a little warmer.
6. Keep a log. Record what the weather conditions are each time you go out and how comfortable everyone was so that you can check back later to determine your own guidelines. A good one on-line is at http://athleticlog.org/.

Up next: How to prep the kids.

Because nothing says IT'S GONNA BE A GREAT WEEK

like an awkward self-portrait in running shorts.

(2 things. 1. it's entirely hidden when aforementioned shorts arent hiked up. just fyi :) and B. yes there is meaning behind it I didnt just leap on the Day of the Dead popularity train)






anyone else wanna share?

Finally some yummy healthy tortilla chips!

I also received the yummy Tortilla chips. I cannot tell you how long I've waited for something this good as an alterative to the saturated/trans fat crowd of snacks. My famiiy also loved them and I do not have a favorite, but am absolutely going to buy these.

My husband was there when they arrived and after all the Christmas packages (I hate to shop and do a lot online)- he was thrilled to partake and gave them high reviews. My kids will eat anything in a zip lock bag :)

Thanks so much.

No Doubt

Fifteen weeks ago, I held up my hand in a meeting hall filled with hundreds of people as Coach called out "Where's the 11:30 pace group?" Around 25 people made their way towards me and my partner while the rest filtered towards faster or slower pace groups. On that first morning of Half Marathon Training, I stood before a throng of strangers who all had hopes of completing 13.1 miles a few months down the line. To some in the running world, completing a Half Marathon doesn't seem so extraordinary. But there are some of us who remember a sleepless night before our first FIVE mile run. This was going to be a first for the majority of this new group, but all were optimistic (even if they looked nervous). Among our new pack, there were mothers of all ages and sizes, some college guys, a few fathers, folks decked out in the latest gear and others in cotton Ts. I could sense them looking at each other, wondering if this was a good decision or not....and I feared they might be disappointed to realize I've only been running for a few years.

Some shifted to other pace groups early on, some others vanished from the program completely, and one runner was injured skiing, but each Saturday, as our miles have slowly increased, our core group has come together as a team. Not only have we exchanged running advice, we've learned hysterical things about each other's kids; we've confessed our fears to each other; we've admitted to embarrassing events. I think I've even made a few lifelong friends.

Yesterday morning, in weather 30 degrees colder than usual, I stood before nearly every member of our group. Three weeks before our Race Day, we headed out into the dark and cold rain (impressive for a group accustomed to running only in 85 degree weather). A couple hours later, our team finished our longest scheduled run: 14 miles. It was a moment that will make the cut when my life (edited for time) flashes before my eyes. Soaking wet hugs, cheers stoked by a 2nd wind, and so much pride in the air, you could smell it (or was that sweat?). There was no crowd, no band, no table of bagels & bananas, no medals. It was just a group of friends inspiring each other to go farther than they had before. There was no doubt that they had made the right decision to join. No doubt they can complete the 13.1 miles on Race Day. And I think they'll have even less doubts about other things in their lives, too.

CHIPS, CHIPS and More CHIPS

THANK YOU ANDREA!!!
I love the chips that were sent to us.....my favorite are the Black Bean. My huband likes the margaritta lime.
I was pleasantly surprised on Wednesday morning when there was a knock at more door and FEDEX had dropped off a big box...inside were the CORAZONA'S Heart Healthy tortilla chips....several bags and a lovely display basket!
My family has enjoyed eating them, and My four year old daughter LOVES them too. Like I mentioned above my favorite are the Black Bean.

I work in the wellness field and we spend alot of time talking with our patients about the importance of FIBER and their understanding of the INGREDIENTS and NUTRITIONAL VALUE of food items. I think that Ramona Cappello and her Corazona's chips have helped to bridge a gap between the consumer and healthy choices. What other chip has this much FIBER, and as we know......we all NEED more fiber in our daily nutrition.

KUDOS to Andrea for making this connection.


Thansk so much!

Hi. My name is Shelley and I'm a Slacker

I can't believe I haven't posted for so long. I should be ashamed of myself, but the holidays have taken their toll on me. So there. No more excuses. Suck it up Shelley!

I can tell you that I thank God (literally) for my (almost) daily workouts during the holiday break for my girls' preschool. I have needed that "me" time more than ever over the last few weeks. The girls and I are just plain sick of each other. You know it is bad when one of your daughters says...

"Mommy, I'm tired of you."

Thanks honey. Now go to your room while mommy looks for the Excedrin.