The Little Blog Dress: Run Run Run

Showing posts with label Run Run Run. Show all posts

Running in the Heat

Admittedly I am a boutique runner. I love to run more than anything but if the weather isn't favorable, I won't go. We don't get a lot of those real cold days here in Florida but I also have an issue running in heat. Which of course, is almost every day in Florida! Here it is May, and its already as hot as Africa outside. I have been able to solve my dilemma by getting out and about the minute it becomes light out. This has also enabled me to see some gorgeous sunrises and really starts my day out right.

If you aren't an early bird like me, you can wait until evening, when the sun’s rays aren’t as strong—just don’t do it so late that it keeps you from getting to sleep.

There is an article by Runner's World that gives really great tips here for you to follow while running this summer.

Luckily, Secret® Clinical Strength has got me covered and keeps me super dry and smelling great. Moisture activated, and formulated with odor-neutralizing ingredients that release a fresh scent, Not only when I run but when I need stress sweat protection. Out of the three causes of sweat—heat, activity, and stress—stress sweat has been proven to smell the worst. I can feel confident that Secret Clinical Strength will provide stress sweat protection regardless of what the day brings.

Secret Clinical Strength is proven to give you 4X* the protection against stress sweat. Visit www.nostresssweat.com for the scoop on stress sweat!

Now available in two new forms, Clear Gel and Invisible Solid, and in scents like Ooh-La-La Lavender, Secret Clinical Strength will help you feel dry, fresh, and fearless all day long!

I have been a fan of Secret Clinical Strength for quite some time. The clear gel goes on clear, which leaves no white marks (you know how clumsy I am)! It keeps me dry no matter if I am running, doing presentations or just running around in my normal busy fashion.

I also like that it doesn't sting when you apply it after shaving. That's a huge thing for us, isn't it? Not to mention the new Ooh-La-La Lavender scent smells delicious.

Secret Clinical Strength is now in stores, especially at your local Walmart store. Walmart is a one-stop-shop for all of your personal care needs. Find Secret Clinical Strength products at your local Walmart store or online at www.nostresssweat.com

How would like a Walmart shopping spree of your own?! Enter my drawing for a $25 gift card from Walmart! Good luck!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*vs. wetness protection required of an ordinary antiperspirant

*The Walmart gift cards and information have been provided by Secret.

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I Survived My First Spin Class

I am a pretty religious Kelly and Michael fan. I laugh because I feel like a housewife watching it. I get up at 5:30a and start my work. Around 9a, I am at a point where I can stop and get my shower and ready on. Kelly and Michael make me LOL...a lot...but I am really amazed at her ridiculous toned body. She attributes most to her time at Soul Cycle, and of course there is so such awesomeness in Daytona...but my yoga studio started a Yoga Spin. A great class that is Half Hour Spin, Half Hour Yoga...but did I do that? No! I am the masochist that got up to try the brand new 5:30AM hour long spin class this morning! But, I think I was gonna like it because it is very music intensive.

Do you get fitness nerves? I do! I feel like a little girl at the first day of first grade whenever I try a new studio or even run any races. I don't know what that says about me, but my insecurities are there for the world to see.

I did it! Even though I may never feel my behind again, I am really proud of myself. I know at one point during the very awesome Florence and the Machine jam, I was screaming mentally and channeling the higher power of Kelly Ripa. I think its only because I watched Talladega Nights last night...but I literally saying Dear Sweet Baby Kelly. haha!

Now off to google padded butt pants for spinning.

How was YOUR morning?!

Not A Creature Was Stirring at 5am

Daunting! But I did it!

My Reward!

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Daytona Beach Half Marathon #Giveaway

Even though I live within steps of the World's Most Famous Beach, and I am most proud of the fact that this area is known to be the Birthplace of Speed and the home of NASCAR. I have been going to the Daytona 500 in some capacity as long as I can remember...as a fan in the Winston/Sprint/Nextel Tower seats, as an beer/cigarette/liquor promotional model, radio station promo etc. The last decade I have been very lucky to have a more intimate view, as I have some great friends who work in the sport. I always love the concept of Daytona Beach Half Marathon, now in its sixth year because it combines two of my loves: racing and running.

This is a cool race for any enthusiast of racing or running. You actually get to run on the Track the Sunday before the Daytona 500. A chance to experience Budweiser Speedweeks just like the drivers, on the track at the Daytona International Speedway. This year, not only do they have the Half, but a Lap the Track fun run, and a chance to bring along the little drivers along for the Kids Race.

The Half route is one of the most unique half marathon courses in the world, runners start on Pit Road at the Daytona International Speedway, and run the first 2 miles around the track. Runners then head out to Daytona Beach, running 2 tenths of a mile on the hard packed sands of the World’s Most Famous Beach before heading back to the Speedway to get the checkered flag at the Speedway’s finish line.

Another bonus, for participating in the race, you also get two tickets to the 500 Qualifying which is one of my favorite days at the track during Speedweeks! Oh, and lets not forget some of your favorite NASCAR drivers like Michael Waltrip, Jimmie Johnson, Kasey Kahne and Aric Almirola have run this race in the past. Who will run this year?

How about if that was you? On me and the Central Florida Sports Commission?! I am giving away two entries to the Daytona Half Marathon and you can enter here:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Daytona Half Marathon Info You Need To Know!

Date: February 16, 2014 (Sunday before DAYTONA 500)
Website: www.DaytonaBeachHalf.com

Half Registration: Currently $95
Lap the Track Registration: Currently $40

Half Runner Perks:
- Track themed finisher medal
- Race themed tech shirt
- 2 Tickets to the DAYTONA 500 Qualifying presented by Kroger (takes place the same day)

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Soy Protein For Your Run #Giveaway

I'm going to admit something to you, I have lost my love for whole milk. It makes me feel like a bad child but I just don't like it. I am however addicted to soy milk and soy products. They taste so much better and are so good for you.

Some facts about soy protein:

• Soy protein is a high‐quality, plant‐based protein derived from soybeans

• Soy protein preserves lean body mass, promotes fat loss, and boosts satiety during weight loss

• A blend of proteins – soy, whey and casein, prolongs muscle building after exercise and increases recovery compared to whey alone

• Soy protein promotes muscle growth and development

• Soy protein is equivalent to whey protein for building muscle when consumed as part of a resistance training program

• Soy protein has the ability to displace fat and sugar calories

In my opinion, soy protein is easy on my stomach and really makes a difference when I am running. I usually don't eat a meal before my run and don't want to feel full with a protein shake but I have discovered a great bar to grab before I go. Eat-Smart Bars, Nogii Protein Bars and NOW Energy Bars are a couple of choices that help make sure I am getting the nutrients I need before or after a long workout with a key ingredient for success: soy protein. These bars taste delicious and have made a difference in my energy levels to get through a long (or short) run.

Whether I am going for a run or doing yoga, a smart fitness routine incorporates protein to aide in muscle building and recovery. Yes, stretching is important but nurturing your insides with soy protein is a must!

Also, Soy protein is a high-quality, plant-based protein which promotes muscle growth and development and can help preserve lean body mass during weight loss.

Christmas is coming early! I have a giveaway! I was sent a killer package with these bars plus a traveling exercise kit and I have one to give away!

-Eat-Smart Bar

-Nogii Nutrition Bar

-Now Energy Bar

-“Powered by Soy Protein” Traveler Exercise Kit (its got a jump rope, a pedometer and more!)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The products, information and two gift packs have been provided by DuPont Nutrition and Health

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Who Is This Runner?

A full disclosure I used to hate Halloween...I still don't get exactly into it as much as I would like to but being friends with Megan who lives and breathes Halloween and having a sister in law who holds a 70 person + party every year, its hard to not get up in the excitement. I mean, it is actually hard but I am getting better because it is fun to dress up.

This year, my sister in law was going over with me which date I thought would be better and like a dummy head I told her the 26th. WHY, I will never know. There is a breast cancer walk that morning, Florida State will get its redemption on those assholes at NC State (not to mention Bobby Bowden is coming back). There is an annual kickball game that day too. Way to Go.

Here is the kicker. I signed up for a race the very next day!!! ARGH! That means that when my friends and family are slugging back the candy corn jello shots, I will be drinking water...ok maybe drinking a little but fully not enjoying myself. Boo. But I really want to do this race.

Even though they ignored my request to help promote the race (welcome to Daytona Beach peeps, noone gets it!) I will tell you that it may or not be called Lighthouse Loop in Ponce Inlet. I am really looking forward to this race, because it will be a beautiful morning and its on the beachside.

Now, last year I came down with the vomit village stomach flu a week before the party so I didn't drink that night either...but I think this year will be harder to have willpower. Not to mention the silver lining of having a skinnier stomach as Catwoman didn't exactly suck.

If you would have told me three years ago that I would sacrifice the party of the year for a end of the race feeling, I would not have believed you. But I am, and it will be worth it.

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Running Monkey Brain...Engage!

I took a run this week, and realized that although I depend on running to stay in shape, the mind clearing is really hard to overlook. I think a lot about a lot when I am trekking. Of course, I don't go too far each time, but I thought I would share exactly what was on my brain this last run, minute by minute. It made me laugh how all over the place I am.

1:00-I am really liking my new Asics

2:00-Why didn't I stretch more?

3:00-Thank God Its not Africa hot

4:00-God, I love this song

5:00-I wonder if I will be able to run when I get pregnant

6:00-Cussword, I forgot to do something for work

7:00-What are you looking at?

8:00- Damn, I can't believe that my water strap broke

9:00 -I am smart, I am skinny, I am beautiful-(lame mantra)

10:00-How am I ever gonna run in the winter?

11:00-Seriously, do you not see me running? Why are you playing chicken with me! I now have to stop so you and your friend can walk by?? That makes a ton of sense.

12:00-I need to blog about playing chicken with stupid walkers

13:00-Why didn't I eat something?

14:00-I wonder what I am gonna wear tonight?

15:00-I wonder if the hens have been keeping up with their running..where does one actually run in Kansas?

16:00-Should I run that 5K in October?

17:00-Or The One in January?

18:00-I'd run every day if I could look like that girl

19:00-When it gets colder, I am still gonna run.

20:00- Why is my best friend calling, she knows I am running!

21:00- Why can't I run faster?

22:00-Why are you beating yourself up, you are better than on the couch!

23:00-I am sure lucky to live somewhere so beautiful, I love this river.

24:00-God, I hate this song

25:00-I am sure Miley will royally ruin SNL this week...

26:00-I think I will be 80 and still love to run to Blurred Lines

27:00-Look at that, you just ran/walked two miles and its not even 7:30am!!

So, that is a scary peek into my Monkey brain...what says yours?

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One for the Closer. Farewell Mariano Rivera

One thing you may or may not know about me, is that I am a die hard Yankee fan. Born and bred. And as much as it nauseates me, this season has proven that I am also not a bandwagoner. For the first time in a very very very very long time, there is no postseason Yankee baseball to watch as they did not make the playoffs,..or even the Wildcard. Yikes.

But the Yankees sent Mariano Rivera off in a fine fashion last night at Yankee stadium. Mariano, was joined by Andy Pettite and Derek Jeter, part of the Core Four (minus Jorge Posada) The three players have known each other since they were in the minors in the early 1990s, and all three came up to the Yankees for the first time in 1995.

Even if you are a die hard Red Sox fan, your heart will move a little bit at this sendoff.

Its Fitness Friday!! I have a new pair of running shoes that I have been wearing. For the first time since I started my running treck I changed my shoes. I feel a little guilty, haha my poor Mizzunos are sitting there while my new Asics and I are out on a little jaunt. I like them, they are lighter...and they don't make my feet hurt...all really good things. It has rained every day here for the past week, so tomorrow I am looking to get out for a good run...I hope everyone has a great weekend.

Check out my new babies. ASICS Women's Gel-Nimbus 14 Running Shoe

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A Traveling Runner

Greetings from Atlanta! Atlanta and I have very old stories together, some are fun, some are tumultuous, most shaped my early adulthood. I always come back here with hesitation, but I am so lucky to come visit one of my favorite people with my bestie. We have had a great time so far and this weekend, I get to see all my hens at NASCAR. Yay yay yay yay.

I was excited to take a run in Piedmont Park, the big city and the things that big cities accomplish for its residents amaze me. I only wish 1/8 of this would trickle down to Daytona Beach. Take the park for example, at 6am there had to be a 100 runners, a yoga class, a juicing food truck and five boot camp classes. All in the same place. At 6am. On a Friday. I am sorry to be all doe eyed, but how awesome.

Although, I wasn't crazy fast...being around the environment made me keep going and not stop. As much as I love running by myself...Running around others gives me a tiny push...you?

Hope everyone has an amazing weekend!

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Today I Skipped

I rely on my Map My Run app to run more than I ever knew. Today, I couldn't figure out what happened it had a different screen, but most importantly as a Galloway runner, it wasn't telling me when to stop or go. It was throwing everything off, only to blame that it was really early...and finally, I figured out that I am the dumbass- I forgot to switch off my spinning extravaganza off and had to put it back to run mode.

I'm so bad at math, and my inability to make myself run longer than a minute no matter what really messes with my head....then it makes me start the wave of self doubt. I know I'm not the quickest of all that is running...and I really struggle with that..Do you know what I am talking about?

So, I am sorry Map my Run that I cursed you from here to high heaven but it actually became a really peaceful morning. I shut off the app...said a couple more cuss words and decided to take the bridge.

And I saw this.

Once I got over the self depreciation, I decided to have a good morning and I walked, skipped a second, ran down the bridge (because that makes me feel real fast) and even did some walking lunges.

Taking the pressure off how fast (or not so fast) my miles are really made my morning a peaceful one. I went farther, and enjoyed the outdoors. It wasn't the most caloric loss to date but it was good for the soul.

How do you get out of the monkey brain when you run? Do I really need a Garmin, or has my May My Run app learned its lesson?!

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How to Change The Fitness Fail

This week, I wasn't really feeling any sort of physical activity. I am sure initially I could say that I killed myself trying to relive my ballerina days when I did my first real Fit Barre class. So when I finally regained feeling in my legs around Wednesday, it made me really lazy.

Then I started some medicine that will kick our family planning in full gear. Wanting to rip someone's throat out with your bare hands didn't quite make it to the side effects page on the prescription sheet. I know that this will be all worth it, but it really deterred my good mood. And my ambition to do anything.

That and its Africa Hot out! I mean, it will literally be 100 degrees today. Noone wants to do anything in this weather. Right?

So, instead of beating myself down and complaining...I took a little break. I made penne ala vodka and ate it three times. And today I sit on ways to make myself get motivated for the week to come.

Music

First up, I need some songs that I can say, this is my JAM! Of course, I have been listening to Blurred Lines over and over, and the rest of the album is totally different and it is very awesome. I am just not sure I am gonna be able to run very fast to it.

In Spotify, I found a good running playlist-I like this one because its all over the place! It has Breaking Benjamin, Coldplay and then it busts out with Stevie Wonder. A train wreck of awesome.

New Outfit

Of course, any activity will be better with a new outfit. And it is better if it is pink. I actually need to go down and get new running shoes. I don't know about you...but this is daunting. I feel like I am cheating on my original pair. But, my feet have been hurting when I run so I think its time to take a little visit.

Sign Up

A motivation to get back in the swing of things is to sign up for some 5K's and other classes to try. I will hopefully be taking my friend Keri to one of her first yoga class. There is also the monthly 5K that will be good (its at night) I also know the Dumbo 10K will be here before I know it, must wrap my head around that as well.

Try Something New

Because of my inability to eat very much before I run, I am always on the lookout for something quick and good for you before I head out. I was contacted this month by Jonathan, who started ZEGO with his co-founder Colleen, to try out their ZEGO bars.

These bars are delicious, and I am loving the sunflower (with a hint of caramel). They are gluten, soy and dairy free, low in sugar, vegan and high in protein. Best of all, ZEGO donates a full 20% of their profits to improve nutrition for low income children via the non-profit, "Campaign for Better Nutrition" Find them on the web and on Twitter and check out some of their new press. This is a great grassroots story! My favorite!

How about you? How do you stay motivated when you get in a funk?

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Firecracker 4 Miler Race

My sister in law at family dinner last night said it best....you and your activities exhaust me. Ha ha.

On Wednesday afternoon, I had made the decision that instead of my usual route, I wanted to wake up on the 4th of July and go for a run on our World's Most Famous Beach first thing. Megan reminded me of the Annual Firecracker 4 Mile/10 Mile in Daytona sponsored by the Daytona Beach Track Club the next day. Last year, I remember sitting at our friend's hotel pool deck with cocktail in hand staring in disbelief as Megan was leaving early to go get up at the crack of dawn to race this race.

What a difference a year makes. It was I who went to bed early and got up at 5:30 to run the longest I ever had. You know what? I did it! I didn't die! I think the prepare always help. I try to hydrate but I find a little bit of coffee, a little bit of water and some sort of protein bar will make a difference. This time, I ate a thinkThin bar...they have some new bars that are crunchy and are delicious. I also depend on whatever is in Goo. This may be psychosomatic but I feel like I can solve the world when I get that goodness in me.

My usual run is two miles, the 5Ks are starting to be a little less daunting but four miles was first day of school nerve-wracking. I have said over and over said that I have no interest in distance, I just want to perform my short run speeds. Doing the Galloway method, you can only go so fast...but its ok.

Our friends were in town this weekend, and they are all runners...its really nerdy but exciting to chat about running. Do you ever notice that? You can spend a long time talking about running! One of our friends doesn't listen to anything when he runs...I can't wrap my head around that! I have to have something to keep the monkey brain at bay!

My absolute favorite song this month to run to is Blurred Lines, by Robin Thicke...amazing.

So, my run went well and I didn't die. Things that are very important. Plus it gave me quite the platform to drink my weight in vodka the rest of the weekend. Sadly, once again the chipped race people can't seem to get my age or sex right! This time I was listed as a boy, last time as a 3 year old. At a time of 13:36/mile, I am not unhappy. At least I did it!

Hope you all had a nice Fourth weekend. We sure did.

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Back to Yoga Back to Reality with Manduka's unBLOK

I have this secret dream, a bucket list of sorts. I really want to get certified to be a yoga teacher. I think I would be good at it. Not because I am great at yoga but I would really like to help people and show what the benefit yoga has done for me over the years.I also would make sure I would practice and teach to amazing music...I think like Lana Del Ray and Robin Thicke kind of vibe...what do you think?

Yoga has helped me out of car accidents and last year when I had my piriformis syndrome. I will save you the google...it is literally a pain in the booty. And when I say pain, I mean shoot yourself in the booty pain. After my trusted chiro, masseuse and PT helped as much as they could a little light went off....Yoga! Dur! So I started going to Yoga at Yoga Bala and nursed that booty back to good health. I was soon addicted.

I was going pretty regularly and enjoying and then that whole wedding planning threw my schedule out the window. This is no excuse but I was looking forward to getting back on the track and getting back into my way. Now that I am back in the groove of things, I was excited when Manduka contacted me and asked if I wanted to try their UnBLOK? I wonder if she could have heard me squealing from here?

As you know, any kind of blocks for yoga are intended to help you with your practice. Probably my favorite thing about yoga, is that you can come in at all levels and work at your own pace and noone is any more the wiser...no pressure and the use of tools like blocks and straps help you get there and also deepen your practice.

The Recycled Foam unBLOK is here to take yoga poses a step further. With its functional, sleek design, and high-quality eco-friendly materials, this revolutionary block will help you unBLOK your practice this year.

Thoughtfully designed to be the most versatile foam block in the market, the unBLOK satisfies the needs of yogis everywhere. The adjacent & dual curves allow for versatility in traditional poses, offering a deeper, more natural arc support while the flat sides of the block maintain the support of a traditional block.

I liked the curve of the block, it was so much more convenient than any other blocks I tried! The adjacent & dual curves allow for versatility in traditional poses, offering a deeper, more natural arc support while the flat sides of the block maintain the support of a traditional block. It made quite a difference and I liked the curve of the unBLOK, it gave me a bigger sense of security.

Of course, Manduka is all about being green and the unBLOK is no exception. It is over 50% in recycled material in every block provides a higher level of recycled material than any other recycled foam block currently in the market.

Other Features:

• Increases comfort on the wrist in standing poses as wrist can rest more

comfortably on the curved edge of the block than a standard flat side

• Increases comfort in heart openers and back bends when

lying on the ground so the back can rest more comfortably on the block

Learn more about UnBLOK and Manduka and their wonderful products and mission here on Facebook, Twitter and the web

The opinions expressed above are 100% my own. I received product in exchange for this review and post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

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National Running Day is June 5th

As any one who hits the pavement on a regular basis will attest, every day is National Running Day! But it is nice to have a day of the world for celebrate too! Tomorrow is that day!

The cool people at Yog are hosting a series of community runs this Wednesday to celebrate. To join one of the runs they have scheduled, open up Yog and look for runs titled: Nat'l Run Day. Be sure to share your pictures using #yogrunday on Instagram!

The benefits of running for me run the gambit. Today, it is officially LESS than six months before I hit a new decade. So, running for me is good the mind, the soul and the ass. I am only half kidding. I really love to run, and have accepted that I may not be the fastest or the longest but I am better than one who sits upon the couch. I can put on my headphones and jam out and solve the world (or at least my white girl) problems all in one thirty minute jaunt.

I am also starting to get in really great shape for my efforts. Yes, I am sore sometimes...but I noticed that my dieting efforts have stayed put and I have to think it is from the extra cardio. And when you are spending all that time huffing and puffing, you tend to think twice before you shove a donut in your mouth!(Someone PLEASE tell me what that Dunkin Donuts sandwich tastes like!)

Speaking of what you put in your mouth...the one lesson I have learned is that it is so very important to eat a little something before you venture out. If you are like me and like to run the minute the sun comes up, it can be a challenge. Its hard to go from dreaming to running in a couple of minutes not to mention to shove water and food down you...but your run will suffer if you don't. I personally rely on things that are quick and easy and take very little thought (it IS very early!)

thinkThin® fits that bill for me. The thinkThin® high protein bars has 0g sugar and the thinkThin® Crunch (my favorite) is non-GMO and has 10g protein and 70% less sugar than leading fruit and nut bars. Also, the thinkThin® Bites are delicious and convenient! I have been devouring them and want to share the wealth! Giveaway below for a Wellness Box from thinkThin® which includes:

one 10 bar box of thinkThin® high protein bars (with 0g sugar)
one 10 bar box of thinkThin® Crunch (with 10g protein and 70% less sugar than leading fruit and nut bars)
three boxes of thinkThin® Bites.

Good Luck and Happy National Running Day!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Lighthouse Loop Half Marathon and 5K

Now that I can feel my back muscles again, I am excited to start running again after a couple of weeks break. Tomorrow is my first day back on track as they say and I have got to start getting in the swing of things! After cheering my lungs out for my bestie Megan from I Run For Wine who is running in the New York City Marathon (WOOHOOO!!!!...read all about her awesomeness here) I started making my plan today of getting back in to the running groove. I of course have the runDisney10K weekend to look forward to, but I absolutely want to sign up for some local 5K's to get me back in the swing of things. There a couple of 5Ks this summer that I will participating in but I wanted to see what fall had in store for the runners of Central Florida.

Today, I decided to sign up for the Lighthouse Loop Half Marathon and 5K in October. The Lighthouse Loop Half Marathon & 5k, raises money for the ten (10) Volusia County High School Athletic Departments.

From their FB page, West Volusia Runners and the Volusia Coastal Runners are teaming up to put on a foot race to support our young athletes and encourage the community to make a difference while improving their own quality of life.

The Lighthouse Loop Half Marathon and 5k will raise money for the ten (10) Volusia County High School Athletic Departments will take place on Sunday, October 27, 2013 in the Ponce Inlet area of Volusia County. Each school will receive an equal amount of the proceeds. Their goal is to put on an event that exceeds runners' expectations while raising $20,000 for our school's athletics. This community event comes at a time when our young athletes are less apt to participate in group sports due to financial hardship found throughout the area.

Early Bird Pricing ends at midnight on April 30th! Register now for the best price...or wait and help us raise more money for the schools

For more information visit their website

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A Way To Stop Running On Empty

Spring! How I love you so! As this was my first winter as a real runner...I decided very quickly that as much as I love this sport...running in the cooler season was not my absolute favorite. With the amazing Florida April we have, it is time to go back at it daily!

I guess that is the good thing about running....you can choose how and when you hit the pavement. My favorite time of day to run is the minute the sun comes up. I just love mornings and am a big fan of that time of the day and the no heat environment it surrounds. Because I am up early as it is to start working, I tend to work for an hour or so and then when it is safe and light off I go. I struggle with eating because it is so early so I rely on quick on the go small things to put something in my stomach besides coffee and water before I go.

I have been really enjoying a new delicious, all natural snack bar called Pistachio Chewy Bites. They are great for anyone looking for an on-the-go, easy on the stomach, alternative to junk food. Runners, bikers, hikers, kids, surfers, yogis…all can enjoy the benefits of pistachios and cranberries!

With three main ingredients, Pistachio Chewy Bites provide healthy snack lovers the amazing benefits of pistachios, cranberries and agave nectar in a delicious and nutritious bite-size bar. Pistachio Chewy Bites are heart-healthy, 100% all natural, gluten and dairy free, low in sodium, GMO free, vegan and a great on-the-go protein snack. They also have no cholesterol, zero trans-fat and are a good source of dietary fiber.

They have a great Facebook presence with good articles and the events that they support and attend. Like them on Facebook here.

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Using Social Media To Internalize Your Own Narcissism In Time Of Tragedy

Human nature never ceases to amaze me. I promise not to to do what I saw all day long on many blogs I follow, and on all social media today.

Keyword keyword keyword. Everyone is going to be googling and hashtaging this terrible tragedy that happened yesterday. Let's jump on the boat so they will notice me and my blog! Think of the hits and impressions!

I will not accept how some people on my social media yesterday and today are making this about themselves. Its hard to believe what is in peoples chemical makeup to somehow make it about them for the purpose of self promotion. I would imagine that this behavior is not new to any psychologist but unfortunately thanks to social media, now I have to read it and be amazed at the way people behave and don't try to hide it .

I also spent a good time unfollowing people yesterday who didn't have the common sense to take down all their automated tweets and Facebook posts during this time of dismay. In between all the news, updates and sincere outpour of sorrow, Hey Look! Check out the Spring trends that I found at TJ Maxx on my blog! Shame on you.

The whole running thing is new to me, but the feeling that you get from crossing any finish line is the best feeling you will ever have. Even after my piddly first official 5K....to cross the finish line and have people that I didn't know cheering me made me smile and cry because of the deep sense of accomplishment I felt. To replace that feeling with a sense of fear, of insecurity and panic after what happened yesterday is what I feel is the real tragedy here.

So, I am upset and my heart is broken...and this may seem a little ranty but I am putting it where my heart is best spent.

Pray for Boston. Pin It

Daytona Beach Half Marathon To Return in 2014, Introduces Shorter Component, Kids Race

It was announced this week from the Daytona International Speedway that The Daytona Beach Half Marathon returns to the Budweiser Speedweeks lineup in 2014.

Scheduled for Sunday, February 16, the sixth annual Daytona Beach Half Marathon, hosted by Volusia County, Daytona International Speedway and the Central Florida Sports Commission will take place one week before the 56th annual “The Great American Race” – the Daytona 500.

Registration will open next Wednesday, April 17, with the advanced entry fee for the Daytona Beach Half Marathon set at $85 per person. The half marathon will start at 6:30 am, right after The Sprint Unlimited At Daytona finishes up Saturday night, and will make for an early day for the race fans and drivers that will participate in the DAYTONA 500 Qualifying Presented By Kroger Sunday afternoon.

“We’re looking forward to the return of the Daytona Beach Half Marathon during Budweiser Speedweeks 2014,” Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III said. “From the Speedway to the Beach, the community provided a memorable backdrop for all the runners who participated.”

This is exciting news for runner enthusiasts that are NASCAR fans. The Daytona Beach Half Marathon’s route has been named one of the seven most scenic half marathons in America by Active.com and features one of the most unique courses in the running world. With the legendary pavement and historic grandstands of Daytona International Speedway serving as the backdrop, runners will start on pit road and run the first two miles on the track. The course then winds through the streets of Daytona Beach, finally reaching “The World’s Most Famous Beach” at approximately the 7.1 mile mark. Runners will then run on the beach for approximately two-tenths of a mile, getting an unobstructed view of the ocean as the sun rises on the beautiful horizon. Returning to the roads of Daytona Beach, runners then head back to the Speedway for the finish and a trip to Gatorade Victory Lane.

This continues the tradition of mixing NASCAR with the running community. Hendrick Motorsports did an excellent job capturing the excitement of their racers including the event on their Vine account. Included in the nearly 1,400 runners that registered for the 2013 event were four NASCAR drivers (Jimmie Johnson, Kasey Kahne, Michael Waltrip and Aric Almirola) and more than a dozen other team members.

New for 2014, the race organizers will also incorporate a shorter distance race (that has my name all over it), as well as a Kids Race into the half marathon race weekend. Details associated with the additional race and Kids Race, including distance, dates, times and registration information, will be released in the coming months.

According to John Bisignano, Central Florida Sports Commission President/CEO this will also be a great opportunity for a boost in the local Daytona economy. “The Daytona Beach Half Marathon provides a participant experience that is unparalleled anywhere in the running world, The complete NASCAR experience, merged with the beauty of Daytona Beach, makes this a destination event that you will not want to miss. We expect the 2014 race weekend to draw more than 4,500 participants and spectators, driving nearly 1,000 room nights and over $900,000 of economic impact for Volusia County.”

According to the release, each half marathon participant will receive a race-themed tech shirt, finisher’s medal, post-race party, personalized race bib, and a ticket to DAYTONA 500 Qualifying Presented By Kroger. Included in the DAYTONA 500 Qualifying Presented By Kroger ticket is access to Sprint FANZONE which provides an up-close look at the NASCAR garages and inspection areas as teams prepare for the race. Photo opportunities with race cars and other NASCAR-related items will be available before, during and after the race. The half marathon is open to runners and walkers, at least 12 years of age or older, who can complete the course in less than 3 hours and 30 minutes.

For more information about the Daytona Beach Half Marathon, visit www.daytonabeachhalf.com . For real time updates like the race on Facebook or follow on Twitter.

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Consider Myself Bitten- I'm Running the runDisney Inaugural 10K

Somewhere in a little town of Tampa, FL one young lady named Megan of I Run For Wine is laughing... probably rocking back and forth cackling.

Because, you see, in one phone call she broke me of the "I just want to run 5Ks" mantra I have been preaching for the last year.

After I said my prayers to her (and said you are gonna die no less than 50 times) upon her confirmation of her running the Dopey (more on that in a second), she talked me into signing up for the 5K 10K component of this runDisney January weekend in about 5.2 seconds. I think the terms Inaugural and Killer Medal...not to mention that I have been dying to get into a runDisney event sealed the deal.

So, today I am proud to announce that I will be running the Inaugural Walt Disney World 10K!!!

From the runDisney website:

Friday, January 10, 2014
5:30 a.m. (EEEK!)
Start/Finish: Epcot®

Run in the newest Marathon Weekend event, the 10K!

Join us for the inaugural Walt Disney World® 10K. This 6.2 mile course is the perfect distance for runners of all skill levels. Winding throughout Epcot® and the scenic World Showcase, it is the newest way to be part of the Walt Disney World® Marathon Weekend.

The Walt Disney World® 10K features:

10K course through Epcot®
Disney Characters and Entertainment on-course
Event Weekend Transportation for Walt Disney World® Resort Guests

Race participants in the Walt Disney World® 10K will receive:

Champion® Long-Sleeved Tech Shirt in Women's or Men's Cut*
10K Finisher Medal*
Official Race Program Guide*
iGiftBag
Personalized bib (Must register by November 1, 2013 for name to appear on bib)*
On-course and post-race refreshments

Be sure to check out Run Disney website (you HAVE to watch the video) for more details. The weekend is attractive for all runners! Registration for all races is April 9.

In addition to the 10K, there is a 5K, a Goofy Half and A Full and if you are insane enough...perhaps you would like to join the eighth dwarf Crazy, I mean Megan as she is going to do the Dopey Challenge.

Credit:RunDisney website

Yes, she and her friends Nicole and Rachel of Runners Tales are going to do ALL of these events...4 races (6 medals in total, which makes me jealous). The four day race event now consists of a 5K, 10K, 13.1 and 26.2. I have to sit down and process all of that! But I will be cheering them on. Wildly!!!

So, I am really excited and will be blogging about the journey to the 10K...it will be a fun happy and magical one for sure!!

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2012-A Year In Review

So, I have always hated New Year's. Always. Except for the years when I was making hand over fist money behind a beer tub or bar, I have always been a bah humbug to this end of the year celebration. Even now that I am not single, it just never impressed me. But, this year has been amazing and i know whatever we do tonight will just cap it a year that WAS! Some highlights if you will spare me the journey:

January 2012

In January, we went to San Diego for the first time. Everyone I told grabbed me physically and say you will love it. We liked it. I think we are more East Coasters (something to think about for our impending honeymoon). San Diego was fun, a little cold but I don't think I got the full experience. We did get to go whale-watching which was way cool. We saw 5 whales. So SO neat, And, we took one of my favorite pictures to date this year.

February 2012

February is always a fun month! My uncle comes in to town, as do my friends who are starting their long race season in Daytona. It is a fun, liver hurting couple of weeks. At the track, our friends work real hard and my friends and I drink "water" which smells like flavored vodka and water and Tasmanian devil up and down the track. But, you never know who you are gonna run into! I looked over and I was like OH!! That is Justin Tuck of the mother cussword Giants, my uncle and brother are gonna freak. With a little vodka courage in tow, I ~~asked~~ demanded for a photo opp! He was so tall, I barely made the photo!

March 2012

March is the beginning of Spring and I was determined to get my booty out and running. I did the HGB Drop diet, lost about 20 lbs for a good start and was ready to start working on my goal to be a runner. It was more exciting than I thought it would be! I did 5 5K's and even though I had an injury along the way, I can click off my year goal of starting to be a runner. 87 miles! That is good!

Along with ~~stalking~~, seeing Tony Bennett for the 80th time, March was also the time for my favorite day at my friend's pool. It was perfect weather and a reminder why we live in Florida! This is me and my besterton Ally. It was an amazing day filled with fun in the sun on a Sunday!

April 2012

Happy Spring! In April, we went to Easter Brunch at the Shores with my future mother in law an aunt. Ally and I went to Earthday Birthday which is our favorite concert event and hung out with the boys from Theory of a Deadman...fun fun fun. Other month highlights, Ormond Beach Leadership with my friend Diane, an artist date with Whim Wham Art Studio, Introduction to Bakon Bloody Mary which deserves its own mention!

May 2012

May started out with a BANG! Diane and I started with a pool day embracing our self-employment and the next day Ally, my beau and I went to see Nickelback, Bush and Shinedown. Our seats were kind of good. It was the first time Ally and I were able to flex our muscle in front of my boyfriend...he was very determined that we needed to make a plan, and didn't trust that Ally had the hookup. Not for nothing, but we had the hookup. I think he will remain silent for quite some time. Seriously, it was fun to take him with us...you get jaded when you have been doing this for as long as we have. Gavin Rossdale is as cute as he was 15 years ago and rocked the house! So much fun! Also in May, I sponsored my first real event! It was a fun event at Florida Hospital Project Hope and I got to see my name in lights. It was really great to give back.

June 2012

My niece graduated high school. I am so proud of her...she is really on to great things. It was great to see her walk that stage and I found an awesome dress for the day...a great day all around. My Meggey had a birthday in June and we spent a very nice Father's Day saying goodbye to her dad for the last time as we spread his ashes on one of the most beautiful day. It was one of those things that B movies are made of and a quiet memory Megan and I will share for a long time. On June 19th after running for a couple of months! I ran my first 5K! It wasn't the fastest thing I have ever done, but I did it and that was all that mattered. The ones that followed went a lot easier! At the end of June, my sister had a milestone and we threw her a girls only surprise birthday party. I love to plan parties! It was so much fun! She was so surprised!

End of Summer 2012

End of the summer came quick! Joe's Crab Shack opened a killer rooftop bar that we enjoyed one Friday night. It has 360 degree views of the World's Most Famous Beach. It was the best way to spend a late summer evening and those are the kind that memories are made of. The 4th of July race was epic and stellar, loved seeing our friends again. My runs continued and they were slowly getting quicker. In July Megan and I went to the BlogHer conference...it was an amazing opportunity in our favorite city in the world. It gave us a chance to connect with like minded bloggers, most who were rude but GREAT affiliates! I loved the opportunities it has presented for us this year. I had the once in a lifetime opportunity to dance with the Rockettes and had a GREAT time with Restaurant Week....it was a great trip. We got to hear Martha Stewart and Katie Couric speak too. So perfect. The trip ended with a now memorable trip to the Rockaways pre-Sandy. I could not believe that just a short time later it would be met with such destruction. Got home on Monday night and turned around on Thursday to go with my boyfriend's family on their family cruise to the Bahamas. This challenged my self employed self....it was a lot of work but the rewards were worth it. A great way to end to summer. On to Fall!!

Fall 2012

Political season was underway! My friend Heather and I got up at dawn, literally to see Mitt Romney speak. It was awesome. I was glad I did it, even tho it made for a long long day. I got really busy with new clients thanks to all this political awesomeness.

In September, we had some gorgeous boat days and college football was underway. We went to the Tampa game which was fun! Yes, it poured rain during tailgating and we decided that we were thankful we liked each other as we sat in the car drank a ton of beer and made fun of people in the pouring rain. Thankfully the skies cleared and the game was awesome.

We went to Raleigh the next weekend and it was a great relaxing time. I loved every minute of this city! We went on brewery tours and went to a sadly lost football game. The weather was perfect, we met a bunch of really nice people and I can't wait to go and visit again. I felt really lucky to have had the chance to visit such a cool city!

The Fall was a time for trips I guess! We also went down to Homestead for the race and enjoyed the Keys for all that it was worth! I hadnt been there forever and the weather was beyond perfect. The drive was terrible but it was a lot of fun!

The end of 2012 and Beyond

*TWO back to back 5Ks

*Marvelous Birthdays

*An engagement

*I started a Visual Journal

*Two Stomach Flus (blick)

*A long awaited baby for my dear friends. I am an aunt again!

*Surrounded by so much Birthday love a girl can barely stand...followed by

*An Engagement and Full Permission to make good on my Fake Wedding File

Can you tell I am getting tired of wriitng? I literally feel like I have the rest of my life ahead of me and anything is possible! Happy New Year!

Next year I will be:

*40

*A Mrs!!!

*Celebrating my 3rd year as a business owner

*A better Runner

*A good wife

*A better friend

*A better Blogger

*Better Traveled

*Better Inspired

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