A Little Humor

1. I think part of a best friend's job should be to immediately clear your computer history if you die.

2. Nothing sucks more than that moment during an argument when you realize you're wrong.

3. I totally take back all those times I didn't want to nap when I was younger.

4. There is great need for a sarcasm font.

5. How the heck are you supposed to fold a fitted sheet?

6. Was learning cursive really necessary?

7. Map Quest really needs to start their directions on # 5. I'm pretty sure I know how to get out of my neighborhood.

8. Obituaries would be a lot more interesting if they told you how the person died.

9. I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least kind of tired.

10. Bad decisions make good stories.

11. You never know when it will strike, but there comes a moment at work when you know that you just aren't going to do anything productive for the rest of the day.

12. Can we all just agree to ignore whatever comes after Blue Ray? I don't want to have to restart my collection...again..

13. I'm always slightly terrified when I exit out of Word and it asks me if I want to save any changes to my ten-page technical report that I swear I did not make any changes to.

14. I keep some people's phone numbers in my phone just so I know not to answer when they call.

15. I think the freezer deserves a light as well.

16. I disagree with Kay Jewelers. I would bet on any given Friday or Saturday night more kisses begin with Miller Lite than Kay.

17. I wish Google Maps had an "Avoid Ghetto" routing option.

18. I have a hard time deciphering the fine line between boredom and hunger.

19. How many times is it appropriate to say "What?" before you just nod and smile because you still didn't hear or understand a word they said?

20. I love the sense of camaraderie when an entire line of cars team up to prevent a jerk from cutting in at the front. Stay strong, brothers and sisters!

21. Shirts get dirty. Underwear gets dirty. Pants? Pants never get dirty, and you can wear them forever.

22. Sometimes I'll look down at my watch 3 consecutive times and still not know what time it is.

23. Even under ideal conditions people have trouble locating their car keys in a pocket, finding their cell phone, and Pinning the Tail on the Donkey - but I'd bet everyone can find and push the snooze button from 3 feet away, in about 1.7 seconds, eyes closed, first time, every time.

24. The first testicular guard, the "Cup," was used in Hockey in 1874 and the first helmet was used in 1974. That means it only took 100 years for men to realize that their brain is also important.

Fitting It All In ~ Guest Post By Chic Runner!

By Danica
http://chicrunner.com/

Sometime I feel really overwhelmed. It's hard to keep track of training, work, family and friends and having that regular routine that fits everything in. When you start to slip down the mountain into overload mode, one of the first things to go is the training plan and exercise. Then falls eating healthy. Life is all about being on the go, go, go, and sometimes taking that special twenty minutes to an hour to make yourself first is hard. Taking that initiative to make yourself first though will pay off tremendously in the long run though, no pun intended. 

Now with 6 marathons under my belt, I've ran some that I was well trained for and some that I could have put in a few more miles to make my overall experience better. When I was at mile 22, I remembered how I wanted to sleep in and how much it hurt at that point. Getting in those extra miles could have helped a lot! There are a few things when you consider getting into exercising and working out. I have really realized that a training plan is a great place to start when you want to incorporate running and fitness into your life. Even if you can't run every day, or even every other day, making goals for yourself is the best place to start. 

I have made numerous training plans for a lot of different races, from 5Ks to half marathons to full marathons. The reason you make a training plan is to try to hit a goal, with that goal in mind,  hopefully you'll want to put in the work to make achieve that goal. I remember when I was training for my first half marathon, I kept thinking that I was running so incredibly far! It was a great rewarding feeling and even after I ran my first ten miles, all day I kept telling myself, I ran TEN miles!

What are your goals? To finish a race? To get healthy? To feel better about yourself? To hit a certain time in a given distance? Make sure you make attainable goals and then go for it! With a goal in mind, it's much easier to train for something when you have a goal to reach at the end. If it's a 5K, 10K, Half or Full Marathon, anyone can run! It's all about getting started, believing in yourself and getting out there. 

When you feel overwhelmed, take a deep breath and think about your goals, how far you've come and what you want to accomplish. I never though I would have run a Full Marathon, but here I am training for number 7! Remember, no matter what your fitness goals are for the year, make sure you are doing it for yourself. You will be the most rewarded when you reach your goals that you've set for yourself. It's always great to cross that finish line and realize your hard work has paid off. 

You're working out, getting fit and doing this for yourself! Remember that! Taking time for yourself will empower you to feel better about yourself and sometimes, those few moments that you steal away from work, family and friends can be your saving grace to keep you sane and happy! 

Fuel Belt Review

Although I'm not a marathon runner, I sometimes want some water or fuel on a run.  I had always seen other runners with their various belts and wondered how they worked, etc.  Fuel Belt sent me the Helium four bottle belt and I immediately tried it out.  

The first thing I want to mention is that I received it in pink.  Running gear is ugly most of the time, so a splash of pink is just what I need to make me "run pretty".  

The Fuel belt fit snugly around my hips, but comfortably.  I was concerned that it was going to bother me while running, but once I got going and had it in just the right spot, it didn't bounce at all.  

I only filled two out of the four water bottles.  (I only run about three miles at a time).  The water bottles were the right size and they were easy to open while running.  I did have some difficulty getting them in and out of the elastic holsters.  However, with time I know this would be easier.  

I love the idea that the bottles are dishwasher safe so I can throw them in when I come home from a run and be ready to go the next day.  With using two at a time, I will use two, wash them, use the other two and so on.  

The Helium belt also has a small pouch so you can carry a key, gel, etc.  Usually belts make you chose between water OR carrying things.  

I also liked the material the belt was made of.  It dried quickly and didn't pinch or pill my clothes.  

Want to get one?

Visit Fuel Belt's website here:

http://www.fuelbelt.com

Polar Buff Review

As a big believer in the benefits that Buffs give, I was thrilled to find a winter version.  The Polar Buff is fleece on one side and soft, wicking, Buff fabric on the other.

 Its VERY warm.  And better yet, its comfy!

It has even more convertible options than a "normal" Buff!  You can use it with the fleece on the inside, on the outside, you name it.  Its a great way to make sure you are warm when you start your outdoor activity.  Then, when you get warmed up you can change the configuration you are using to allow heat to escape.  Its so much better than stopping to strip off your hat, then getting cold.

If you're headed out into the cold for skiing, running, snowshoeing, etc, the Polar Buff is a great option!  Instead of buying lots of different  items, buy one and use it lots of ways!

Want to get one?  Visit their website here:
 http://www.buff.eu/en/USA/products/-/c/H/s/A/f/5

Erin Baker Goods

I was sent a few products from Erin Baker...and I was excited to try them.  However, the healthy and organic labels scared me a little.  We all know that sometimes these things mean "tasteless".  However, Erin's Baked goods are anything but.  

I started out with the Brownie Bites.  They are soft and chewy.  They seem as though they were fresh baked, not taken out of a package.  The best thing is that they are just the right size....not too big and not too small.  You feel as if you have had a sweet treat, but haven't over eaten.  All the varieties are less than 100 calories each!  I know that I'd rather have a brownie than a baked mini version of a cracker or cookie!  

I next tried the high protein granola.  I have a hard time getting all of the protein that I need into my daily diet.  So anything that has a lot of protein intrigues me.  I was doubtful at first as I usually make my own granola.  However, I was pleasantly surprised.  The granola is sweet, but not sugary.  Its hearty, but not sticky or heavy.  My favorite part was the light taste of peanut butter throughout.  I plan on getting a big granola and breaking it up into little packets to eat after runs, or during hikes.  

The final item I tried was the breakfast cookie.  Its a really good size, and I almost couldn't finish it in one sitting.  Its moist and soft like it was just baked and came out of the oven.  I toasted it, per suggestion from the baker and it was AMAZING!  I felt as if I were eating a tasty dessert and not a healthy food option.  I really feel like these could become addicting!  That being said, most mornings I just don't feel like eating breakfast.  However, who can't go for something sweet, warm and yummy in the morning?

All of Erin's goodies impressed me.  Its hard to find wholesome food that you can feel good about eating AND it tastes good.  Erin's Baker Goods fit the bill!  Give them a try and you won't be disappointed! 

Snow Running

Okay a few weeks ago we have a blizzard here in New England.  A real life blizzard.  It was snowing sideways.  I opened by back deck door and the snow was up to my waist.  So the day AFTER the blizzard occurred I decided I needed to go for a trail run.

First of all my car got stuck in the parking lot.  They hadn't plowed yet and there were cars skidding everywhere, dogs were having a hard time getting through it and there were snow banks preventing traveling in the usual lanes.  I should have left then.  But I didn't.

I started running on the area that everyone travels on.  It wasn't horrible there.  Then, about 25 feet onto the trail, it got bad.  I was slipping and sliding and with any given step, I had no idea how far I would sink in.  I was about a half a mile in before I just had it and tried to walk.  I was as out of breath as I'd ever been and I was angry.  I could have turned around, but I figured it couldn't possibly be as bad going forward to I plugged on figuring I'd loop back at my first chance, which was only three quarters of a mile.

Although there were spots where the snow was non existent due to the gusts we'd had, most of the rest of the trail was treacherous.  It was as if I were in a nightmare, running and running and running and going nowhere.  Just about everyone else was walking, or had cross country skis or snow shoes.  I should have realized.

I made it back to the car, where my husband was waiting and I think every other word was a curse.  I had managed to pull my achilles tendon in the process.  The silver lining to the day was that my husband, who was taking photos, got this shot of me.

Sweaty Bands

Before you judge, these bands are way cuter than their name.  They are headbands like no others you've tried.
They have a fabric outside made of grosgrain material with a velvet like underside (the side that touches your hair).  The back side of the headband (that goes under your head) is made of a stretchy elastic material.


I was skeptical because I've reviewed headbands before and when I fond comfort, I've found I have to adjust them when running.  If they hold tight, they hurt, etc.

So I wore one of these bands out for a run today.  I had a good on at first and pulled it off after my warm up.  I thought for sure I would have lost my headband in this process.  I didn't!

I ran a 5k this morning in the headband and it didn't move.  Not once.  Not when I played with my ear buds, not when I adjusted my sunglasses.  And it didn't pinch or hurt!

I'm a little concerned with washing the band after a bunch of sweaty bands, but after one run it didn't seem to be wet at all, so I think it would take a LOT of runs to get these grimy.

Here is a picture of the headband in my hair.  In the same place, literally hours after I put it in.

Take a look at their very extensive inventory here.  There is something for everyone's tastes.  I am itching to get a few more now.  I love seasonal things and they even have Christmas bands!  (I'm hoping for some cute spring and summer bands to pop up soon.)
http://www.sweatybands.com/

Yur Going to Love These Ear Buds

Okay, just about everyone has an iPod.  How we listen to it differs...there are hundreds of options for headphones.  Personally, I can't wear the ear buds that come with the iPod.  When running they actually cut the inside of my ear enough to make it bleed.  They work for lots of people though.

So over the years I've gone though a few pairs of Shure headphones.  They are pricey and with the wear and tear of going in and out of a gym bag, being worn for runs, and dealing with the elements, they eventually fray, stop working, etc.  And I was getting tired of investing in a pair what seemed to be every summer. This past summer my iPod broke entirely so I needed to replace my whole ensemble.

I got one of the small shuffles and a set of Apple's in ear headphones.  I was trapped into buying a pair of their headphones because the Shuffle itself at the time had no controls and has to be used with a pair of Apple headphones.  *this will be important later!

When I learned about Yur buds, I was thrilled to hear that there was another option out there for runners.  The ear bud themselves are made of a flexible silicone.  The come in red, blue and pink.  More importantly they come in different sizes.  You actually send them a photo of your ear and they determine the perfect size for you.

My Yur buds arrived in a cute little pouch with instructions.  (I'm a sucker for a cute little pouch!)  I very quickly realized that the headphones wouldn't work with my iPod (see above as to why).  So I took off the silicone ear pieces and put them on the headphones that came with my iPod.  They went on very easily and quickly.

I ran with the headphones this morning and I can truly say I love them.  They are comfortable.  I didn't have to adjust them once.  I usually have to fiddle with my Apple ear buds a few times during my run.

The thing that struck me about these headphones was the excellent sound quality.  my music sounded awesome!  I really require good sound, which is why I bought Shures in the past.

The ear buds were comfortable.  A must for anyone running.  I can't tell you how comfortable they were.  I didn't think about them once, which as runners know, is the sign that something is perfect!

They are sweat proof too.  The ugly truth is that when you workout, everything gets a little grimy.

One of my favorite aspects of these headphone is that they allowed me to hear what was going on around me when I was running.  The school bus approaching me, the trail beneath my feet and the people around me.  Its an unusual feature for headphones that are comfortable AND sound good.

The best part is that Yur Buds aren't expensive.  They aren't going to break the bank. Replacement covers start at about $20 and their most expensive pair (Ironman branded) are $49.99.  Take a peek at their whole selection here:

www.yurbuds.com

I can assure you that for a custom fit, comfortability and sound, you aren't going to beat the price of Yur Buds.

Letter to the Danbury Fair Mall and their management company

Per my blog entry yesterday, I wanted to share the letter that I've sent off the Danbury Fair Mall and their management company.  After tweeting about the incident, I received a call from the marketing manager and the property manager.  They wanted to have a "friendly meeting".  I went in to see what they had to say.  They said they were sorry.  However, they can't change the policy.  The security guard that gave me such a hard time?  He will be "reeducated".  However, he was at the mall while I was there for my meeting.  It's not likely that I am going to go back to the mall for any reason with the potential to see him there.  While I didn't expect them to move mountains for me, I did expect them to make some sort of compromise.  Otherwise I'm not sure why I had to take time out of my day to go to the mall.

The long and the short of it is this.  1.  They are still discriminating against runners.  This is despite the fact that they admit the policy was designed to be able to stop kids from running and there is "grey area".
2.  They were sorry, but are unwilling to change anything.
3.  The whole process was very upsetting and stressful to me.  They don't seem to care about that.  They only seem to care about legally protecting themselves.

Here is the letter:

Dear Danbury Fair Mall and Macerich Company,

I am writing to you in regards to an incident that occurred on December

30th, 2010.  This all stemmed from my understanding that there were a large number of people that walked the warm corridors of the mall for their daily exercise.  A few days prior to the incident, I checked with the Guest Services desk to see if jogging was permitted.  A young man informed me that it was, indeed, permissible to run in the morning along with the walkers. He handed me a "course map" and showed me where I could log my distance after each training session.

I arrived at the mall at about 8:30 am and proceeded to jog around the top floor of the mall.  I switched to the bottom floor for a final lap, and to reward myself with a Starbucks at the center court.  At a little after nine am I was approached by a security guard who told me I could not run at the mall.  As I was previously under the understanding that jogging was permitted, I asked him why I could not run.  He said I was causing a "public hazard".

Not satisfied with this answer, I asked for his supervisor's contact information.  He asked me if I had a piece of paper and a pen.  I clearly did not as I was in running clothes.  He also asked, with a smirk, if I wanted his phone number.  This question ratcheted up the situation.

I then went to the security desk to talk to the security guard there.  He immediately starting giving me a hard time saying I was breaking the "Code of Conduct," and that I had to leave the mall.  There was no reasoning with him, that maybe the rules may have been made for the countless hooligans that frequent the mall on Friday and Saturday nights.  Maybe there could be some leeway for a local runner who just wanted a place to exercise without running in 14 inches of snow.  Again, all of this taking place before the normal business hours of the mall.  Again, no customers that might get trampled by a runner.  In fact, the children’s train that zigzagged through the throngs of holiday shoppers is statistically more likely to run over a customer than my running before hours.

My experience with your security team left me feeling that they were

Incredibly rude, and in my opinion, I was treated very poorly.  My feeling is that your security team felt I was some teenager who they could give their spiel to about the code of conduct, and stop me from jogging.  I am about 120 pounds, so being told I'm threatening and a public hazard is beyond ridiculous.  They were clearly on a power trip.

If you are opening the mall before normal business hours to allow people to be inside from the elements to complete their exercise routine, it is discriminatory to exclude groups of potential customers because they might go at a slightly faster pace than a walk.

What defines running versus jogging, jogging versus power walking.  Many fast walkers probably go at a speed faster than I do.  Will you throw fast walkers out too?  Your code of conduct signs states no running, but that has no definition attached to it. Your security guards are simply using their best judgment as to what they define running.

During my time at the mall, there was a group of women with strollers.

They were all jogging behind their strollers.  I asked the security guard why they were allowed to jog, and I was not.  He refused to answer.  Again, this is discrimination.  If I had a stroller and a baby in it, I would be permitted to run?  After hearing my story, a number of friends offered to give me their old strollers and a kid’s baby doll so that I could join the group.

In addition, the moms congregated at one of the decorative circles on the lower level and did stretching and other exercises.  I also believe the code of conduct states that groups are not allowed to congregate at the mall.

During my interaction with the security guards I felt threatened.  Luckily, I was able to locate my husband so that I had a witness to any further interaction.  However, had I been alone I would have called the police myself, in order to deal with the situation I was being put in.  Guests of the mall should never be made to feel that they need to call the police to protect their rights. Again, it is not as though I was shoplifting or vandalizing.  My understanding is that there is plenty of that that goes on at the Danbury Mall.  There was no need for your team to take the attitude and aggressive posture towards someone merely jogging with the walkers at the mall. 

When I tell you this, I am not looking to brag, just merely demonstrate that my opinion goes much further than my group of friends in town.  I am a local business owner, and public figure.  I have a heavily visited blog, and a radio show that is popular nationally.  My website has more monthly visitors than the Danbury Fair Mall's website, and the Macerich corporate website. I have already begun retelling my tale to any and all who will listen.  In fact, it is the reason that you have already reached out to me with regards to this situation before I have even sent this letter.

Personally I won't be returning to the mall.  With Internet shopping so

easy, there is no reason to visit your establishment.  My clients look to me as an expert on where to purchase items that will make them happy and improve their lives.  I am happy to tell them about my experience at the Danbury Fair Mall as well.  A happy customer will tell, on average, one person about a positive customer experience.  A disgruntled customer will tell, on average, 10 people about a bad customer experience.

At the very least you need to educate your security guards to treat every guest with respect.  While I may look like a 17-year-old girl, I am a grown woman with a voice that carries across the globe through social media. Please also remind them that although they are male, and in a position of power, they cannot be rude to those they are speaking to.

Additionally, your mall needs to clearly define its terms. A fast walker can be faster than a slow runner.  Not having terms defined leaves yourself open to lawsuits.  I had a GPS watch on during my time at the mall and I can prove that I was going very slowly.  I will also make this information available to anyone and everyone who will listen.

Thank you for your time.  Feel free to contact me in regards to this matter.

Running can get you arrested

So here in New England we just had a massive storm.  Where I live there was over two feet of snow and major drifts.  (The snow on my back deck comes up to my waist.)  I did try running in it.  It was like every nightmare you've ever had where you run and run and go no where.  It was as if I was doing hurdles.  The snow was over my knees.  While it won't usually be that high I did want to find a safe place to run during the winter months.

My dad suggested the mall and I thought it was a great idea.  If nothing else, not having to wear three layers of clothes thrilled me.  So I visited customer service where I was told that I could run at the mall.  The person I spoke to gave me a mileage map, told me the hours and told me where I could even sign in to take part in a program that tracked mileage to work towards gift certificates.

I arrived the mall and started running.  I was stopped about 20 minutes in my a security guard who told me I couldn't run.  From here, its a long story but both the guard who stopped me and his superior were rude, and refused to explain to me why the 20 moms pushing strollers were allows to run and I was not.

I also asked what defines a run.  There are many walkers out there faster than I run.  Why are they permitted to be at the mall?

The security guards explained to me that I was causing a "public hazard".  I was also told I was "threatening".  I'm not the tiniest girl out there, but I'm about 120 pounds and clearly I wasn't going to outmatch these security guards.

I was threatened with arrest and told they would forcibly remove me from the mall.
I will not be going back to the mall for any reason.  I have written to the mall management company and the mall head office. I will keep you updated if I hear anything at all.

The reason I'm telling you all of this is that I feel its okay in our society to discriminate against runners, but not obese people. There is a double standard and those of us who are healthy are left out in the cold.

These security guards are being allowed to abuse their power.  The mall is hand picking the people they give a hard to and those they let slide.  They have no way to determine what a fast walk is versus a slow jog.  They have handled this situation very poorly and I thought you should know about it.

Just to let you know, this is the Danbury Fair Mall in Danbury, CT.  The management company, who stands by the mall's actions, is Macerich and they own and operate the following centers:
http://www.macerich.com/find/findacenter.aspx

Please support me in letting them know that they should allow runners and at the very least their customers deserve care, respect and courtesy.
Thank you!

Sheex PillowCase Review

Sheex calls themselves performance sheets.  Well they are correct.  I had no idea what a difference the right linens could make.

I was sent a pair of Sheex pillow cases and I put them on, wondering if my husband would even notice the difference.  He immediately noticed and wondering where I was able to find such soft and comfortable pillowcases.  He was concerned I had spent a LOT of money on them :)

I am a good sleeper, but my husband often has trouble staying asleep.  I fell fast asleep in my Sheex pillow case and was amazed at how much more refreshed I felt in the morning.  I never felt hot or cold over night, just comfortable.  The pillowcase was so soft I kept "cuddling" with it!  

My husband woke up the next day and told me he slept better than he had in ages.  I thought it might be a fluke so I waited a few more nights and every day he told me the same thing, that he slept amazingly well.  I eventually had to change the pillowcases and when I did, he didn't sleep as soundly and we were subject to the temperature fluctuations in the room again.  (We live in New England and its winter here so the heat goes on and off throughout the evening.)

Sheex not only control your temperature.  They wick moisture away from your skin, allowing you to sleep comfortably all night long.  They are also more breathable.  

I can't tell you how soft they are.   They feel like a much pricier sheet set and they get even softer after you wash them.  

These are now my favorite pillow cases and I'm on the hunt for a great deal on a sheet set.  You will love these sheets!  

They are the perfect way be healthier in 2012.  If you sleep better you will have more energy and be able to accomplish more in work and in life.  Of course a better night's sleep means more energy during the day and who doesn't want that?

http://sheex.com/

Recovery in the New Year

With the New Year upon us it’s a great time to start thinking about the end of the year.  Yes, I said that correctly.  Start thinking about next December.  Where do you want to be?  What do you want to have accomplished?  Determining these things now, and taking action to accomplish them daily will help you lead a better, more present life in 2011.  Take some or all of the steps below to make sure you are on the path to live your best year ever.

Working Out

Weight loss is one of the top three resolutions every year for Americans.  However, this year instead of focusing on what the scale says focus on how HEALTHY you are.  How much can you lift?  How long can you walk?  Those statistics will increase your fitness, give you more energy, and make life easier.  They will of course, also decrease the number on the scale.  Start by finding only ten minutes a day to walk or play a sport of your choice.  Involve the whole family to make it fun, and do double duty as family time. 

Clean Out the Clutter

Everyone wants to be more organized in the New Year.  This year, instead of putting items down where you come in the door and ignoring piles, make a conscious effort to observe your patterns and correct what is bothering you.  For example, if you always have piles of mail, take the time to sort through them, develop a filing system, and remove yourself from unwanted mailing lists.  Remember that you pay rent or a mortgage for every square foot in your home.  Items that are taking up space, and not being used or loved, are costing you money.  Donate them to someone who will love them, or could use them more than you can. 

Eating Healthy

Eating healthy is all about planning.  You don’t need to be a great cook or have a lot of money to eat healthy.  Make sure you know what you are eating for dinner for the next 7-10 days.  Then make sure you have the ingredients on hand.  Shopping in bulk can save you time and money.  Make sure you also know what fruit and vegetables you will have on hand for the following week.  Next, take a peek at those planned meals and see what you can do in advance.  You may be able to cut the vegetables in advance.  You may be able to put together a casserole a few nights prior.  I like to cook twice a week.  Each time I do I put together a crock-pot meal, a dinner for that night, and a casserole to be cooked later.  On the 7^th night we eat leftovers or go out to eat.

         It’s important to remember that life gets in the way of our plans.  Things will go wrong and things will come up.  However, it’s how we deal with these distractions that makes all the difference in the world.  If something comes up that affects your eating, working out, or organizing, don’t get discouraged or give up. Simply gather yourself, cut yourself some slack, and get back on track.  If you dedicate just a few minutes a day to each organizing, working out, and eating healthy they will become second nature for you!

Bumble Bar

I am always eating some sort of breakfast, granola or protein bar.  And as we all know, they don't always taste that great.  What is yummy, is usually filled with sugar.  What is healthy usually tastes like dirt.  So Bumble Bars are a great surprise to find.  They are yummy and they taste GREAT!

I've tried a variety of their flavors and every time I am pleasantly surprised.  The consistency of the bars is soft and chewy.  You can visibly see the nuts and seeds in the bars.  Many times you have no idea whats in a bar and its simply a hunk of goo!  The bars each have a distinct flavor.

I love the flavors and the diversity of them.  When I was having a sweet tooth attack I snacked on a chocolate bar.  When I was on the go in the morning I grabbed a cherry bar.  I love the fact that the ingredients on the bars can be pronounced and are few in number.  You actually know what you are eating!

One of the other things I love about Bumble Bars is that you can buy them by the case on their website.  (I also spend a lot of time hunting down bars to keep my supply jars full.)  They are a little expensive compared to other bars, but you get what you pay for and its no more than you would expect to pay for organic health food.

If you want to try out Bumble Bars visit their website.  You will be happy you did.
http://bumblebar.com/

Run around the clock

My running schedule is something I fight with constantly.  When I first started running very early last spring, I found running very tiring and I ran just a day or two a week.  After I started "getting into it" I started running as much as possible.  I was obsessed.  I ran as many days a week as I could, often six or seven.

You would think I would have been an excellent runner because of all of this.  I wasn't.  I still huffed and puffed.  I was pretty sore most of the time and every day was a struggle.  My dad and my husband told me to take a break.  BUT, I had a lot going on, and running made me feel a bit better so I kept pushing. I also assumed I'd finally get better if I kept running every day.

Eventually, I got hurt (there is a separate blog entry about that) and it was bad.  I went through months of PT and I was unable to run.  I wasn't even able to walk, shower or sleep for a while actually.  And so when I started running again, I was determined to do it the right way.  I'd learned a lesson.  

So now, I mix it up a lot.  I don't have a schedule that is set in stone.  I have a set of workouts that I complete during a week to ten day cycle, but in a varying order.  This is due to my schedule being so different on different days.  Some days I'm out of the house for 12 hours of more, and fitting in a "long" run is difficult.  However, other days I work from home and can sneak away for an hour or more.  Another reason I vary day is the weather.  I'm in New England and it could be cold and rainy one day and beautiful and sunny the next.  I don't fight it, I use the nice days to go out and run.  I also want to keep my body guessing as studies have shown that this helps improve fitness.

Okay so here is a list of the workouts I do.  I am constantly changing and I'd like to add more weights in, but for now, this is it.

At least one 5k tempo pace per week.  I also try to get a "long" run in of 4.5 miles or so.

At least one trail run per week.  Ideally I trail run twice a week or so.

Hike.  I hike in a local park and depending on the trail we take its about 1-1.5 hours.

Weights (quick circuit round)

Yoga (in my living room via DVD)

Speed work-1 mile warmup, then 8 rounds of a 30 second sprint followed by a 1 minute walk.

Hill work..I run about 3/4 of a mile, then run up a large hill at the park where I trail run.  I walk down, then repeat five more times.  I usually jog it back to the car, about .4 of a mile.

Spin (I have a video that is about an hour long, also done in my living room)

I think the biggest thing I've learned is that there is no right or wrong way to have a running schedule.  Variation is the key.  Your body learns all sorts of new things and adapts.  One of the biggest bonuses is that with having a lot of options and changing up what you do, the boredom factor is lessened.  

I'd love to hear what some of your favorite workouts are!  I am always looking for new ones to add in!

Got Pain?

Salonpas recently sent me some pain relief patches to try out.  I normally hate patches like these and can't wait to take them off, but after badly hurting my IT band this summer and facing flare ups from time to time I'm willing to try anything to make running easier.

The patch does have menthol.  However, the odor is not over powering as it usually is in patches like this.  The patch was large enough to cover the area I wanted it to, but not too big.  It was easy to put on with one set of hands as well.

The patch easily stayed on for eight hours.  At that time I took it off easily and there was no goop left behind.

I know what you're asking....does it work?  It does.  I felt relief after a day of speed work in the cold, a hot shower after and rushing out the door without stretching....
The patch won't compensate for taking care of yourself but on those days when you are a little stiff and can use a little help, the Salonpas patch is a great option.  Its thin enough that you don't notice it under clothing...I even had tight fitting pants on and it wasn't a problem.

You can get Salonpas patches at all sorts of places including Drugstore.com and CVS.
Visit their website here:
http://www.salonpas.us/

Race Review-New Year's Day

This was my third race since I've been "back into it" after years (okay, decades off of racing) and recovering from a serious IT Band injury.

There were a few things that scared me about this race.  The biggest thing being that it was four miles and not the traditional 5k that I had been getting used to.

The second thing I was fearful of was the cold.  My other races were in the fall, which is usually much more temperate than January in CT.

I was also fighting a small torn muscle behind my ankle.  It started bothering me the week before when running in 20 inches of snow, which is a whole other story.

Finally, I was anxious because I thought the amount of racers would be decreased due to the cold and the holiday and I just might come in last.

Race day started out with no hiccups.  We had stayed in the night before so I would be well fed and well rested.  I ate healthy and got hydrated.  I slept pretty well through the night.

I was originally going to wear a "penguin outfit" to the race, but after hearing it was going to be 40+ degrees I bagged it, the hat and the gloves and went to a thermal top and over layer of fleece.  I wore my compression tights and of course, my tutu. I also made some braids and used some sparkle spray for my hair and used my sparkle nail polish :)

So the race went well.  There were fewer runners....225 as opposed to 435 at my first race and 940 at my second.  I felt good.  i ran my first mile way too fast and had to deal with some MAJOR hills.  I did walk a few times for about 15-30 seconds a time.  It really took the searing pain from my ankle.

I had a goal of four 11 minute miles and I beat it.  My race pace has been about 10 minutes per mile and I would have loved to come in at 40 minutes but the extra time was worth it to not cause more injury to my ankle.

Once again the thing that struck me about this race was how all the runners know each other.  Its like a club.  Everyone stopped me to tell me how cute my tutu was.  The neighborhood people were in their driveways waving.

Also, once again and without surprise my husband was there to support me, carry the backpack of supplies, take lots of photos and be my biggest supporter.  He says he wants to get into running and although I'd love that, I love having him there waiting for me at the finish line and waving to me at the start.

So what did I learn?  Be happy I'm running at all, have fun and wear less clothing!!

Ikea Event

I normally don't post my professional information on this blog, but for those of you who live in the CT area and want some free info on getting organized, you can see me, The Joyful Organizer, presenting at Ikea in New Haven on January 15th.  See below for details.

Organizing expert, Bonnie Dewkett, CPO® of The Joyful Organizer^®, is offering a FREE workshop at IKEA New Haven to help you get your kids organized once and for all!

New Haven, CT – January 1, 2011 – On January 15^th The Joyful Organizer^® will be giving a free workshop at IKEA New Haven, 450 Sargent Drive, New Haven.   

Workshops will be given at one and three pm.

Topics to be discussed include (but are not limited to):

·      How to develop organizational systems for children’s spaces.

·      Organization doesn’t have to be expensive.  Learn how to get organized for less than $500.

·      How to involve your kids in the organizing process.

·      Learn how to KEEP your spaces organized.

·      Developing effective study skills.

·      Learn how to organize schoolbooks, notes, and paperwork for students of all ages.

Bring your toughest organizational questions to this event.  It’s free to the public!  The Joyful Organizer’s speaking events are high energy, fun and full of information.  Visit our website ahead of time (www.thejoyfulorganizer.com) to learn a little bit about our services, and how we can help you at this event! 

Those in attendance will receive a special savings coupon from The Joyful Organizer^®. Although this event is free, it would be greatly appreciated if you would please bring a gently used children’s book to benefit the Read To Grow Foundation.  (http://www.readtogrow.org/)  Read to Grow puts books in the hands of children of all ages to make sure they develop a love of reading and learning from a young age.  

Me & Goji

Anyone who knows me knows I LOVE cereal.  I eat it all the time.  When my husband is out of town, I've been known to eat it every meal of the day.  So when I first learned about Me & Goji I was excited.  The nice people there allowed me to build my own cereal and try it out.

When you first visit their website (http://www.meandgoji.com/) you can start building your mix.  You start with a base such as healthy o's or shredded wheat.  There was a big enough variety that I had a hard time choosing.  From there you add in fruit, nuts, or seeds.  The options are combinations are endless and at first, over whelming.  I played on the site for a LONG time...and finally made my mix.  I think I was a little scared to keep adding things in.

Once you are done mixing and matching you can order up your mix.  You can even put it in a custom package!  Add a photo to the container.

My mix arrived today and it was so much larger than I thought  it was going to be.  I immediately opened it up and it was YUMMY!  Okay, I dove in with my hands first, then stopped myself and used a bowl and some milk.  It was a good tasting as it is healthy.

I was originally going to do this review during the month of January.  January is going to be "Live Your Best Life" Month and I think Me&Goji is the a great way to live a better life.  Its a way to make a great tasting, CUSTOMIZED cereal that meets your tastes, nutritional needs and meanwhile, its still healthy.  I have hypoglycemia and finding a cereal that tastes good and is good for you is REALLY hard to find.

The reason I'm doing this review now, is that I think Me&Goji is a GREAT holiday present!  You could make the cereal for someone, or give it as a gift!  Nothing says I love you more than helping them be healthy!

Take a peek at their gift options here:
http://www.meandgoji.com/giveagift.aspx

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Wishing you a prosperous New Year!  This is the year to make your dreams come true!