Monday, April 30, 2012

Sexy Mother Runner 30 Day Fitness Challenge!

Are you ready for a change? Need some motivation?
Take our
Sexy Mother Runner 30 Day Fitness Challenge!



The Sexy Mother Runner
30 Day Fitness Challenge starts tomorrow, May 1!


What is this challenge?

 We challenge you to exercise 30 minutes per day for the next 30 days. You can do any type of exercise ex. walk, run, bike, yoga, weights, etc. If you are moving it counts!


Why 30 minutes per day?

Because, 30 minutes per day of exercise is the current minimal recommendations for heart health.

Why should you participate?

Besides the amazing health benefits and being involved with a motivated group of people, it is free and you can win cool prizes each week just for participating! The first random prize drawing is on May 7, 2012 and it is a gender neutral Bondi Band! Who wouldn't want one of those?

Who should participate?

All men and women who would like a bit of motivation with their exercise regimen. *Remember, you should always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise routine.

How do you participate?

You post each day on our Sexy Mother Runner Facebook Page what you did for the 30 Day Fitness Challenge or on this Sexy Mother Runner Blog page. If you post both places that will qualify you for 2 entries into the prize drawing. If you post a picture of you exercising for the 30 Day Fitness Challenge that will get you another entry into the prize drawing. You can potentially earn 3 entries per day for the weekly prize drawing! Plus, on May 31, 2012 a Grand Prize Winner will be announced! Even if you have won during the 30 day challenge you are still eligible for the Grand Prize!

Can I still participate if I miss a day or don't start on the first day of the '30 Day Fitness Challenge'?

Absolutely! You can start anytime. Just remember to post your results on our blog or Facebook Page. Life happens! This challenge is about gettin' moving no matter when you start or if you miss a day! You will still be eligible for any of the prize drawings! So, let's get movin'!






Questions? Comments? Email us at sexymotherrunner@yahoo.com.
Remember you can Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest!

*Disclaimer: We are not licensed medical professionals. All views expressed on this website are based on our own personal research and experiences. As always, please consult your doctor with any medical issues, or before beginning a training program. Prize winners are drawn at random. You will be contacted via email to provide your mailing address if you are a prize winner.  



Thursday, April 26, 2012

Sexy Mother Runner Featured Runner Friday: Meet Louis

"Every runner has a story and we believe sharing those stories is a great way to share the gift of running while helping motivate others",
The Sexy Mother Runners

Although Louis likes to have fun in the mud, he is also an incredible
family man, runner and individual! His story reminds us to
give back and always know that running will be there for you! Make sure to
follow his journey as he runs with TNT to fight Leukemia and Lymphoma.
As his church says, "if everyone does a little no one will have to do a lot".


Meet Louis:
I started running as a child playing freeze tag, football and other sports with the neighborhood children.  When I was in junior high, my dad who was in the Air Force had an overseas tour duty in which the family remained stateside.  While he was overseas he started lifting weights and running.  Upon his return, I started jogging with him.  Then one day while in high school or college while we were jogging, my dad said you should be able to run further.  So I sprinted at the end of the run and went a little further.  That is when I started running more than two miles at a time.

I continued jogging in college.  One day a classmate mentioned he was doing a 5K that weekend.  We rode to the race together and started together.  He set a PR and beat me that day because I started too fast, but I was hooked.  This was my first race, but now I knew about local races.  That summer I raced in a small triathlon.  One of the best things about racing is the people, both runners and volunteers.  You meet many people before and after a race.  Before the triathlon I was talking to a 50 year old woman.  During the race we essentially rode the bike together.  Neither was drafting, I was unable to pass her.  Although, I out ran her my dream was formed – to be in good shape to race “strong” in my fifties.

I ran for a couple of more years.  I graduated college, got a job, got married and had children.  During these couple of years a co-worker signed up with Team In Training (TNT) for a marathon in Alaska.  It sounded interesting.  I wanted to run a marathon, the Ironman in Hawaii and to run with TNT.

I competed in 5Ks, 10Ks and various triathlon distances while in my late twenties for these couple of years.  I raced with professional athletes.  I was not there to beat the professionals, but to  have fun, compete against myself and be able to say I ran with professional athletes.  When my son was six months he sat in a stroller and I pushed him in a 5K race.  I would take a break from racing afterwards.  I was happy.  I had no regrets and could live with myself if I never raced again.

I took a break from racing, but continued exercising.  I would run along side my son while he rode his bike.  As he grew and participated in sports I would participate also.  Eventually, I quit running and/or jogging.  The children are older and going to college, working, or hanging out with their friends.  Our children are only young once, so again I have no regrets about not racing.

Are you wondering what happened or why I am writing?  Read more as I continue with my journey.  Since the children are older, I have started my second running period.  Now, in my late forties I resumed racing and beating many people in their twenties.  My dream of being in shape was happening.  The races were short, 5K.  I then ran a 10K.

I always wanted to run a marathon and to run with Team In Training.  I kept putting TNT on the back burner, but finally I ran a marathon.  My desire to run an Ironman is not as big after having run a marathon.  However, I love watching it on TV.  Besides the winner’s times, the stories of some of the triathletes are awesome. 

Two of three of the biggest differences between running now and twenty years ago is the internet and quantity of people running. 

For my first marathon, I read many blogs.  I thought I was prepared.  The blogs were informative and inspirational.  While the blogs are encouraging, we forget to put them into context.  As an example, one blogger that I was following was a young female whose training and training times were close to mine.  It was encouraging.  I did not know it was her second or third marathon.  She learned from her first marathon and did better.  I was not prepared.  We need to remember it is our journey. 

This brings me to the next part of my journey.  Running a marathon was not enough; I still wanted to run with TNT.  I saw a posting on a local facebook running club page and decided to sign up.  I signed up late and am still training and raising funds, so I cannot tell you much about it, but will provide you with some detail. 

First, the fundraising is difficult, but FUN and worthwhile.  Many blog pages feature a runner every now and then.  I have read about couch to 5K individuals, those that continued to train until they meet their goal, etc.  We each have our own story or stories.  No story is insignificant.  Similarly, each cancer patient and/or family has a story.  I have not reached my fundraising goal, but believe I will.  I could use your help.  I know that we are helping.  Similarly, I know these blogs are helpful.  We need to believe! 

It is amazing how we take things for granted or forget the small things.  More people than ever are running nowadays.  When I see older people and women running I reflect on my younger days and how today I am running again.  These people are still my role models.  My church has a festival every year.  During the fundraising and volunteering time they say if everyone does a little no one will have to do a lot. 

Running a 10K and further is a major undertaking, with a marathon being the most difficult.  I am running with TNT because I am capable and because I would like to help.  I have donated to charities is the past.  When I did, I did not think much of it – it was a little.  At the start of my fundraising I had a similar thought, but then more funds started coming in.  75% of the funds spent by The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) go directly to research the causes and treatments for blood cancers and better the lives of patients.  These small amounts are adding up to a lot – we are making a difference.  To me TNT is more than the participants on the team.  The REAL team is the contributors. 

While I decided to participate to help, I feel like I am getting more out it than the patients and their families.  As for the pain we endure while running, it is short time and nothing compared to what the patients experience. 

We can relate “doing a little” to “taking small steps”.  When I started running I could only run a mile.  While I have completed a marathon, I have not run the entire distance.  The research takes time.  We hear often how small steps towards cures are being made.

Louis

If you would like to help Louis reach his goal of making $2900 and help blood cancer patients in his area, please read his letter below.


Dear Friends and Family,  

Believe it or not, on June 3, 2012, I will be running the Rock N Roll San Diego Marathon in San Diego, California. I can hardly believe I signed up for this but, I recently came across this opportunity that would train me how to run, as well as raise money for a great cause!

Team In Training is a fundraising program which benefits The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). Each year, they train 40,000+ runners, walkers, cyclists, triathletes, hikers and snowshoers for the event of their choice (marathon, ½ marathon, century bike ride, triathlon or hike or snowshoe adventure.) The group has excellent coaches who volunteer their time to provide a daily training schedule, advise on gear and nutrition, organize group runs, offer track workouts, and keep the motivation level up!  

I have pledged to raise money to help fund research and support for blood cancer patients and their families here in Mississippi/ and Louisiana. My personal goal is to raise $2900! This is a big challenge, I know, but not nearly as big as the challenge these patients face everyday. 

Here are some facts about the diseases and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society:

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin‘s disease and myeloma, and to improve the quality of life of patients and their families.

Leukemia is the number one disease killer of children, yet it affects 9 times as many adults! Every 4 minutes someone is diagnosed with a blood cancer. Every 10 minutes someone will die from a blood cancer. Research sponsored by The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society has been the catalyst for the effective treatment of Hodgkin‘s disease, lymphomas, and breast and lung cancer.  

I would greatly appreciate any contribution you can offer. Big or small, it will be put to good use - it goes directly to patients in Mississippi/Louisiana and to finding a cure. In fact, 75% of the funds spent by LLS go directly to research the causes and treatments for blood cancers and better the lives of patients. 

There are two ways to make a donation:

1.       Visit my personal TNT Training & Fundraising webpage:
*All donations are private, secure, and 100% Tax Deductible

2.      Please make checks payable to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and return
 to:
Louis Dusang
794 Cambridge Drive
Biloxi, MS  39532

I will gladly accept donations after May 6; however, the sooner I meet my fundraising goal, the more I can focus my energy on preparing for the marathon. If you can’t send money now, please send encouragement. I need lots of that, too!  

Thank you in advance for your consideration in supporting this effort. If you have questions or need additional information, check out The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society web page at www.lls.org.


Sincerely and Gratefully, 


Louis Dusang


Tax ID Number: 135644916

Did you like Louis' story?
If so, leave him a comment and encourage him on his journey!

Thanks again Louis for sharing your story with us!
We hope you achieve your goal &
have a wonderful race!
~The Sexy Mother Runners


Want to be a one of our Sexy Mother Runner Featured Friday Runners?
We would love to hear from you!

Remember you can always follow us on Facebook & Twitter!
Thanks for following us! 

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Looking for a race?!

Are you looking for a race, but are having a hard time finding just the right one in your area?! Well look no further, because my husband stumbled upon a great site and I must share it with you!



Running in the USA is the largest online directory of races, results and clubs.  Running in the USA started as 2 websites. Running in the USA was started in the spring of 2002 by Don Drewniak and was primarily a directory of race results. Run This Planet was started in the fall of 2002 by Bill and Mary Flaws and was primarily a directory of races and running clubs.  The site is very user friendly and beneficial if you are looking for a race in the United States. This site will be very useful for us as we complete our Sexy Mother Runner goal of 'Running in All Fifty States'. Plus Mary Flaws has her own blog. You can view it here. I love Mary's race recaps! Her pictures really make you feel like you are there! No matter what race you are looking for you can find it there!

Happy Running!

~Danyelle


Want to contact the Sexy Mother Runner's? Email us at sexymotherrunner@yahoo.com.
We would love to hear from you!
Plus, you can follow us on Facebook & Twitter!

Sunday, April 22, 2012

Shoes!


Last Sunday, my husband said something to me that every woman longs to hear, "Yeah, you should buy new shoes this week." I could not have agreed with him more. Of course, we were both thinking running shoes but that in no way lessened my excitement.

I have had my Brooks Glycerine 8 running shoes for a while now. I'm on my second pair of this particular shoe actually. They worked wonders for my shin splints. If I didn't know better I'd swear they were magical. Recently however, I've had some problems on and off with my left foot. With half marathon training going strong my feet are starting to feel the effects. I want to be sure to find the right shoe and have it broke in before the Bayshore Half Marathon in May.

Me and my Brooks Glycerine 8, love at first sight.
(This was taken right after the UPS guys delivered them, yes, he thinks I'm nuts...)

Although my Brooks have been pretty good to me, I thought it may be time to check out some of the other brands. I recently noticed that my tread is wearing on the outside of my shoes more whereas it was right down the middle two pairs of shoes ago. Not sure if it is common to have that happen or not but I planned to hit my local running store to get some answers.

If you are new to running, be sure to check out your local running store and get properly fitted. Having the right shoe can save you a lot of pain or even an injury. Running in old or worn out shoes is a common cause of injuries. You should typically replace them every 300-400 miles.

The staff at my local running store, Running Central, is great about making sure you have the right shoe for you.  Fred and I stopped in there this week to get fitted for shoes and pick up some other gear as well. We both had a foot scan done, walked back and forth while the sales associate watched our stride, then started trying on shoes. We both have a normal stride and fall into the neutral shoe category. Even with the tread wearing more on the outside of my shoes, it's not enough that I need a stability shoe.

I tried on a pair of Asics first and immediately did not like them. They were too narrow of a fit for me. My feet are a little wider and these actually felt like a clamp on the sides of my feet. I tried on a pair of Mizunos and they too were narrow and too snug on my foot. Then I tried on a pair of Brooks Ghost 4, they fit like a freaking dream. Once again, my foot slid right into perfection. The difference of fit in running shoes still amazes me. Last, I tried on a pair of Sauconys. They felt really good too. Uh, oh. After running a little bit in each shoe I decided once again on the Brooks. Apparently, Brooks and I were just meant for each other. Obviously, women often go for cute over comfort when it comes to shoes but that doesn't fly with running shoes. Luckily, the Brooks look great so I don't have to sacrifice cute. 

Fred had been wearing Mizunos. He tried on another pair of Mizunos, a pair of Adidas, a pair of Sauconys, and a pair of Brooks. He narrowed it down to the Brooks and the Adidas. On looks alone, the Adidas are kind of ugly, okay, they're hideous. The Brooks are a really nice looking shoe. However, Fred being a guy and all, he is more for comfort than looks whether it be a running shoe or a dress shoe. After running in both shoes several times, he decided on the Adidas. 

My New Brooks Ghost 4

Fred and I went for a run yesterday. We needed to get 9 miles in for our half marathon training. We ended up running 10 miles. A new PR distance for both of us! 

Peace, love, happiness!
~Bekah

Do you love shopping for running shoes? 
What is your favorite running shoe?

Thursday, April 19, 2012

Featured Runner Friday: Meet Crystal!

Every runner has a story and we believe sharing those stories is a great way to share the gift of running while helping motivate others.

This week's Featured Runner is Crystal. Crystal started running for all the right reasons. She has a true running spirit. Her incredible drive and inner strength has pulled her through circumstances that would have caused others to just give up. Not Crystal, though. She is a fighter who doesn't let anything keep her down for long.

Meet Crystal

In August of 2010, my younger brother spent a weekend in the ICU where he was diagnosed with diabetes. Our dad’s side of the family is plagued with heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid issues, and diabetes. Due to my hypothyroidism and high blood pressure, I was already exercising on a regular basis but this incident really shook me up. I realized I needed to step up my exercise even further and put all my excuses as to why I couldn’t run out to pasture. Game on!

Through the fall and winter of 2010, I just went out and ran without having any clue as to what I was doing. I was sidelined by shin splints, knee problems, and hip pain. I became very frustrated when I hit a mental roadblock. I had finally got myself to running 2 miles at a time, and even improved my pace, but couldn’t seem to move beyond that. But still I didn’t stop.

I decided to join Building Steam in spring of 2011 in hopes of improving not only how far I could run, how I run, and to feel better while doing it. Building Steam was a very helpful tool as far as keeping me on track. I was able to utilize the interval approach of walking/running to increase my mileage but I was left wanting more from the experience. After running by myself all winter I had hoped to feel more a part of a supportive group and bond with other runners.

I learned of Peoria Sole Sisters through Toby, who was going to be a pace group leader. From the first night, when we met at the old Running Central, I felt like there was an electric energy in the air. I knew immediately this group of women was going to make positive changes in my life. This was the experience I had been waiting for!


Our core pace group of Patty, Tiffany, Tracey, Jen, Laura, and I just seemed to fall in place with Kenna as our leader. Over the next few months we started running not only faster but also further. My initial goal for this new fitness regimen had been to be able to run 3 miles a few days a week. I will never forget coming home after a Sunday morning long run and telling my husband, “I just ran 5 miles! Did that really just happen?!”

Many of the Sole Sisters were signing up for the Pumpkin Classic in September of 2011 and honestly I wasn’t too interested. I had run a few 5K races over the summer and had been struggling with the heat, making race days very frustrating. In the end, the camaraderie of my Sole Sisters won me over. On September 17, 2011, just 6 weeks after my 40th birthday, I ran my first 10K race! (And I still have to thank Patty for sticking with me during that race or mentally I wouldn’t have finished within my goal!)

The same exact thing happened with the Spartan Sprint on October 15th, 2011. Some of the Sole Sisters were signing up and not only was I not interested…I was scared to death! I had fractured my right arm 7 years prior and didn’t want to get injured again. Then I decided to silence the negative voices in my head telling me I wasn’t capable of doing this! I am not a prissy girl with no guts! (OK, maybe a little bit prissy but I have some guts!)

As we weren’t running for time, Patty and I decided to be running partners for the Spartan Sprint. We both just wanted to gain satisfaction of finishing the race. We had only made it through the first couple of obstacles when I fell in slick mud and fractured my left arm (proximal humerus fracture)…almost the exact same break as I had done to the right arm 7 years prior! This was my worst nightmare! And honestly my husband’s as well. While he is 110% supportive of my running and being healthy, he was very concerned about me doing this race because of my prior injury…but never once told me he didn’t want me to do it. Bless him!

Pre-Spartan Sprint- 10/15/11


Post-Spartan Sprint- 10/15/11

To say that I was devastated doesn’t even begin to explain my state of mind. I still felt like I had something to prove to others but more importantly to myself. Not only did I not get to finish the race but now I was injured and wouldn’t be able to run at all for a good chunk of time. So, I gave myself a couple of days to wallow in pity and then I snapped out of it. What good was it going to do?

The orthopedic doctor told me I would be in a sling for 6 weeks and then that would be followed up with physical therapy. I would be able to run again in 12 weeks when the bone was fully healed.

I started walking several times a week, even while still wearing my sling, and finally started setting goals as to what pace I could get walks completed. I honestly feel I was able to stay so positive thanks to the support and kindness from my Sole Sisters. They took time not only out of their running schedules but their busy life schedules to walk with me on Wednesday nights and even other days or nights as well. Patty started marathon training and was even getting her runs completed in the morning so she could walk with me on Wednesday nights during the normal Sole Sisters weekly run! Now how cool is that?

Over the 12 week period, I followed what my doctor said, did the exercises my physical therapist gave me, and on January 6, 2012 I was back to running again! I have spent the last couple of months trying to catch up to the level that I was at before my injury. I have had shin splints and admittedly other struggles, as well. On days when I don’t feeling like running or I get frustrated with the way I’m feeling when I do run, I remind myself what it felt like when I couldn’t do it. It really is all in the perspective because in the past couple of weeks I have finally started breaking my old pace and distance PR’s and feel that I am now getting to a level of fitness that I hadn’t reached even before the injury.


I feel so thankful to be a part of this fabulous group of both mentally and physically strong women who are not only my running partners but have become my friends who hang out, help each other through hard times, and celebrate the good times. I truly love them more than my words could ever express.

I am contemplating running the Quad Cities Half Marathon in September 2012. My main goal, however, is to continue to grow more mentally and physically strong and keep enjoying my girlfriend time with my Sole Sisters!

I'm sure Crystal would love to hear your thoughts and comments! Feel free to leave her a note of inspiration!

If you would like to be one of our Featured Runners, send us an email to let us know!

Monday, April 16, 2012

My Top 10 List of Really Cool Races

There are a lot of really cool races out there. I find out about new ones all the time. I've had a mental list of different ones that I really would like to participate in so I thought it would be a good idea to write them all down. These all sound like a lot of fun to me.

Top Ten Really Cool Races
(According to Bekah)

1o. Run For Your Lives - Zombie infested 5k obstacle course - I'm doing this one in June and I cannot wait! It's not everyday you can say to someone, "Yeah, I ran from zombies today. How was your day?"

9. Skirt Chaser 5k Series - This just sounds fun! Women start the race and 3 minutes later, the men (skirt chasers) get to start. Big party at the finish!

8. Beach Palooza - This is a fun obstacle course run. Jess over at Run With Jess has done this one before and says it's a blast. Think beach, grass skirts, and umbrella drinks! Sign me up! Plus, money from this race goes to St. Jude!

7. Dirty Girl Mud Run - The name pretty much says it all. Sorry guys, this one is just for the ladies. I have several friends participating in these this summer. I'm hoping to hit one next year as this year's dates did not work out for me.

6. Hot Chocolate 15/5k - All you need to know about this race is Ghirardelli. That's all I needed to know anyway. Friends who have participated in the Chicago race reported a very fun race with excellent swag!

5. Warrior Dash - Another obstacle course but this one boasts more of a challenge. It also boasts that it is the 'World's Largest Running Series'. Another supporter of St. Jude!

4. Spartan Race - To me, the Spartan races are THE ultimate obstacle races. These races scare the bejeezus out of me. Not kidding. I saw Danyelle's crazy huge bruises from the Spartan Sprint (3+ miles and 15+ obstacles) she did last year. Oh, and one of our friends broke her arm at that same race. So, of course I signed up to do a Super Spartan with her in October. 8+ miles and 20+ obstacles... I just threw up in my mouth a little...

3. The Color Run - This is a 5k running extravaganza of color! Runners get doused with a different color at each kilometer so by the end you have become a beautiful canvas. FUN!

2. Earth Day 10k- A 10k run along Coast Highway in Carlsbad, CA! An ocean view for this race makes it a must run. Plus, I'd get to go to CA and visit with some pretty great friends who live in that area. Win/Win!

1. St. Jude Memphis to Peoria - This run starts at the St. Jude Children's Hospital in Memphis, TN and ends in Peoria, IL. It is done as a relay and raises money for the St. Jude Children's Hospital. This hospital treats children with cancer and other serious diseases. The families of St. Jude patients are never asked to pay a dime for the treatments and services they receive, EVER. The hospital runs on donations. If you are looking for a great charity to support, check them out. St. Jude Children's Hospital

I am participating in the the St. Jude East Peoria to Peoria portion of the race this year. Once I am registered, I will be taking donations to reach my goal of $750. I will be posting a link for anyone who would like to make a donation! I hope to participate in the Memphis to Peoria run next year.

Peace, love, happiness!
~Bekah

Have you participated in any of these?
What's on your race wish list?

Friday, April 13, 2012

Confessions Of A Run-Away Housewife

I never have to stop and ask myself why I run. The reasons are many. I'm reminded of them often. Sometimes several times in one day. I run for health, both physical and mental. I run to relieve stress. I run for the pure joy of it. I run because it makes me stronger. I run to spend time with friends. I run to get away from my life for a while.

Restore Your Sanity
Run Like Crazy

Also, I run because I have children, two of which are small. And though some people may very well have perfect children, I do not. They are pretty much run of the mill. They make messes, whine, tattle, yell, fight with each other, snuggle, give lots of hugs, like to help, play and cuddle together, tell me they love me every day, drive me crazy one minute and melt my heart the next. Friday was more 'drive me crazy' and less 'melt my heart'...

My day started out pretty average. Fixed breakfast for my two youngest ankle-biters, got my coffee, sat down with my laptop to read the Featured Runner Friday. Danyelle was in charge of posting Anna's story so I had not read it yet. Which was kind of a nice treat actually, getting to read it the same time as all of you 'awesome people who follow our blog'.

So when did things start that slow slide into Hell? Right after lunch.

We are in the middle of a room switch. Sounds simple enough, or it did when Fred and I first talked about it. Switch his office with the kids' bedroom. Easy cheesy. Then it festered and grew into this ridiculous project that has taken over our whole house. Pair that with an unhealthy love of HGTV and the DIY channel and we are now looking like candidates for an episode of Hoarders. This didn't all happen Friday after lunch, it's been on going. I'm just giving you a baseline reading of the insanity that I was already dealing with going into 'Friday after lunch'.

So, here goes... My 18 year old, Taylor, was actually home for lunch, a rarity. She offered to help with the clearing and painting of the bedroom. Another rarity. We had all just had our lunch which was everyone's favorite (except my son), grilled cheese sandwiches w/ tomato soup. My 6 year old must be going through a growing spurt again because she chowed her soup and sandwich and asked for more. I gave her half of my sandwich and the rest of my soup. Then cleared the dishes and all that good stuff.

I was heading into the bedroom to finish clearing stuff out when I spot my 4 year old son standing in the bathroom with no pants on. He looked up at me with that adorable yet obviously-guilty-of-something look on his face. I've come to know this look well. Then he shut the linen closet doors. That's when I noticed some sort of 'liquid' on the floor in drops. Hmmmm.... the following conversation went as follows.

Me: Did you pee on the floor?
D: Uh, no?
Me: Did you pee on the floor? Is that pee?
D: Oh. Just a little bit. I'll clean it up. (he grabs a towel off the counter)
Me: No, I'll clean it up. Why is it there? Did you pee anywhere else? (by this time Taylor has joined us)
D: No. I just peed a little on the floor.

At this point two things are dawning on me.
1. My son is a terrible liar.
2. He closed the linen closet door awfully quick when I first walked in... the laundry chute is in our linen closet.

Me: Did you pee down the laundry chute? (Taylor stifles a giggle and opens the linen closet door. Then she gasps which pretty much lets me know that this is indeed an awesome day.)
D: What will happen if I did?
Me: Did you pee down the laundry chute?
D: Yes...

I put him in timeout in the corner and begin to try and figure out how exactly one goes about washing the inside of a laundry chute. Taylor shuts the bathroom door so that her brother can't see or hear her giggling.

My 6 year old knocks on the door and says, "Why is D in timeout? Did he pee in the laundry chute? Can I have the rest of his grilled cheese since he's in the corner? It's getting cold and he won't eat it cold but I will. Can I have it?"

I'm not at a point where I can yet find humor in the situation. Taylor, however, continues to laugh and says to me, "Well, at least you have something new to blog about." Normally she throws in some sort of comment like, "This is why you should have stopped having children after me." She didn't throw that in there though and I can only speculate that her self-preservation instincts had kicked in.

This little episode is a big reason why I run. As a stay-at-home-mom, life can sometimes feel so overwhelming you don't know whether to cry in a corner or run away. I choose to run away, 3-4 times a week. I know I'm a better mom for it because, well, because my children manage to survive these kinds of incidents unscathed.

So, my house is torn apart, my son pees in the laundry chute, and my 6 year old is eating us out of house and home. But I run and life is good.

Peace, love, happiness!
~Bekah

Why do you run?

Sexy Mother Runner Featured Runner Friday: Meet Anna!

Sexy Mother Runner Featured Runner Friday!


Every runner has a story and we believe sharing those stories is a great way to share the gift of running while helping motivate others.

You don't want to miss reading Anna's story today! She has found so much more than running from a pair of running shoes. She has placed at many races and just made a new PR by finishing her Lincoln Presidential Half-Marathon last weekend in under 1:57! She inspires all of us to lace up! Plus, you can catch Anna teaching Body Combat or RPM at the Riverplex or listen to her on the radio @ 105.7
"The X Rocks". She is quite an amazing woman and
we are honored to share her story with you!

Meet Anna...


Through running I found my life, love and happiness, who knew all of that could come from lacing up a pair of shoes.

Years ago I tangoed with a boat propeller and lost, after countlessdoctor’s appointments I had surgery to repair a ligament in my ankle and that added another 10lbs on top of the 20 I already wanted to lose. Added a cheating boyfriend to the mix and I was slipping into depression. I made a change; joined Weight Watchers and got a Nike+. Something about that little shoe chip got me going, I remember my first mile like it was yesterday, it felt like death in 13 minutes.

After a few weeks of success I decided I needed a small goal, because that was my approach with weight watchers, make small goals then build upon them. My goal was the Race For The Cure! I followed the Nike Running 12 week training program and ran that race like it was nothing, lost more 15lbs and ditched the cheating boyfriendJ

During that summer a girl I had met through the Weight Watchers boards had asked me to run a half marathon with her in her hometown, Mankato, MN. I grew up in MN so she thought it would be cool for us to do that together, there was no debating I said “I’M IN”. By this time I had gained a ton of confidence, surpassed my weight loss goal and met my amazing boyfriend. For the first time in my life every aspect of it was perfect. I ran my first half marathon in just over 2 hours and I haven’t stopped running or growing.

In 2011 while training for my second half I won my first age group medal at the RunTo Remember it was a 5k in 24:15. It’s funny with running, I can’t remember yesterday but I can remember my time for pretty much every single race. Last year I won 1st, 2nd and 3rd place medals and even a 9th place overall female (and that was with an injury). But the biggest highlight was the night before Steamboat when Adam White from Running Central had asked me to be a part of Team RC. He had said that I’ve drawn so much awareness with my blog (annaruns13.blogspot.com) and with my job that he thought I’d be a great part of the team and to spread the word of running more.

I ran 3 half marathons last year, two with an injury, which was kind of an obstacle but with running its not IF you have an injury its WHEN. And last summer I was simply doing way to much and not resting/recovering enough. Eventually I went into physical therapy, started resting and healing. By the end of December I was given the green light to run again and by that time I had my sights set on a new goal, the 26.2, The Illinois Marathon, and my Mr. wonderful is running it. I love being able to share this passion and high with him. This weekend we'll tackle our first race of the season and my 5th 1/2 marathon in Springfield with some fellow Sole Sisters. I'm looking forward to an amazing weekend and hopefully I can obtain a new PR on a difficult course.

Last but not least this year I am honored to carry the name of a St. Jude runner, here’s a link to that story/donation page. I’ll be doing Chicago to Peoria and my goal is double the $1290 I am supposed to raise. This is by the far the run I am most excited for this year. I have idea what's in store with this run but I'm sure the rollercoster of emotions I'll go through will be the ride of my life and I simply cannot wait! http://1057thexrocks.com/anna-kinkade-joins-the-2012-st-jude-chicago-to-peoria-run/
Radio Peoria
WIXO FM 105.7
Afternoons 3-7pm

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Tuesday, April 10, 2012

From our Nutritionist, Megan: Organics on a Budget!

Organic Shopping Sense 

You’ve made the choice to get in shape and eat a more healthy diet by increasing veggie intake, eating less white refined carbs and sugar, and possibly choosing organic foods more often. Organic foods and products have become wildly popular in recent years as people have become more concerned about their health and the environment. Is it necessary to go 100% organic? If money is not a problem then go for it, but most people have a fairly strict food budget. I would love to be totally organic, I would also like someone to prepare delicious meals offsite and deliver it right to my table. Oh, to be a Hollywood star…but I digress.

You can optimize your organic budget by targeting foods that typically contain more pesticides than other foods. Also, when shopping for these products you may come across confusing terms and labels or products without labels.  The following information can help eliminate the confusion and make you a savvy organic shopper.

 Organic Terms

In 2002 the USDA set strict standards under the National Organic Program for organically grown food and livestock. According to the USDA, organic means “the food or other agricultural product has been produced through approved methods that integrate cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity. Synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, irradiation, and genetic engineering may not be used.”  In order to be labeled “organic” a government certifier must inspect the farm where the food was grown (or animals raised) to ensure these standards have been met. You can look for the USDA Organic Seal to easily spot organic products.


·        The terms “100% Organic” and “Organic”, which contains 95% certified organic ingredients, may contain the USDA Organic seal.  

·        A product may state “Made with Organic Ingredients” if it contains at least 70% certified organic ingredients, but it may not use the USDA Organic seal.

·        For products with less than 70% certified organic ingredients, they can only identify the organic ingredients in the product’s ingredient list.

Organic livestock – and their products, such as milk and eggs, must have never been given antibiotics or hormones for any reason in order to bear the seal in addition to eating organic feed. If you also don’t want to unknowingly consume meat or milk from cloned animals, then organic is the way to go. The FDA has declared cloned products safe for human consumption and they won’t require any labeling telling you that your milk or meat is from a clone. Gross!! 

The issue of organic fish is still being debated. You can visit the Environmental Defense Fund at http://apps.edf.org/page.cfm?tagID=1521  to learn more about choosing fish that is healthy for you and the planet.  

GMOs

A “GMO” is a genetically modified organism. The most widely grown GMO crops include soybeans, corn, canola, and cotton. When a food has been genetically modified it can contain genes from other species that would otherwise not occur naturally. This is usually done to give more “desirable” characteristics like insect resistance or a longer shelf life. The long term effects of GMOs on the environment and health are not yet known. GMO products cannot be labeled as organic.

Natural vs. Organic

If a product is labeled as “natural” it does not have to be organic. The term “natural” is not regulated for products other than meat and poultry, but typically means a product is free of artificial additives.  

Go Organic with These First

I find there is no need to buy organic chips and cookies at double the price of conventional unless it helps you eat less of them or there is big sale. We should be limiting intake of these foods anyway. Start with the basics: meat, eggs, dairy, and produce.

Beef, chicken, and pork The EPA says meat contains higher levels of pesticides than produce. This makes sense because the animal eats food contaminated with pesticides and these chemicals accumulate in the animal. Choose lower fat cuts of meat as pesticides tend to be stored in the fat. Try to eat less meat rather than more meat in general. I “dilute” the amount of meat in dishes and soups by adding more vegetables and beans. My tacos include only about 50% meat and the rest is black beans, onion, and peppers. The same goes for my meatballs. I usually add an entire box of frozen spinach, a chopped onion, and use brown rice instead of bread crumbs. This helps us consume less meat, eat more veggies, and also stretches our organic meat dollar.

Dairy and Eggs Conventional dairy and egg producers are more likely to use antibiotics and growth hormones. And, since these are animal products they would also accumulate more pesticides than produce.

Certain produce. The Environmental Working group (http://www.foodnews.org/index.php) has compiled a list ranking fruits and vegetables based on their pesticide content, after washing and peeling.

These fruits and vegetables are known as the Dirty Dozen and contain the HIGHEST amounts of pesticides:

Apples, celery, strawberries, peaches, spinach, imported nectarines, imported grapes, sweet bell peppers, potatoes, blueberries, lettuce, and kale

It would be healthier to buy or grow the organic version of these fruits and vegetables.

These conventionally grown fruits and vegetables contain the LOWEST amounts of pesticides:

Onion, sweet corn, pineapples, avocado, asparagus, sweet peas, mangos, eggplant, cantaloupe, kiwi, cabbage, watermelon, sweet potatoes, grapefruit, and mushrooms

If your budget doesn’t allow you to buy all organic, you don’t have to feel guilty about these conventional fruits and vegetables.

Do I buy everything organic on the Dirty Dozen list? No, but I try to buy frequently consumed items organic. If you eat an apple everyday, you would be wise to choose organically grown apples. By switching to organic, you will greatly reduce your pesticide exposure from conventionally grown apples. My son usually eats 2-3 apples a day, for this reason I buy organic apples most of the time.

Organic or Local?

Here’s a new dilemma. Do you choose organic tomatoes from across the country or choose tomatoes grown in your town by a small scale farmer that may or may not be organic? Well, I have been trying to buy my food as local as possible. The best scenario is to find a local organic farm that has been certified organic. Becoming a certified organic farm is a lengthy and expensive process that not all farmers can afford however. So talk to the farmers at your farmer’s market. They may have the organic philosophy without the certification. You can also become part of a CSA. CSA stands for community supported agriculture. These farms let you pay to join them and then share in the harvest. You can find a list of CSA farms at http://www.localharvest.org/. I have been a member of Worden Farm in Punta Gorda, FL for 4 years and it has been a wonderful experience. From November through April I get a large box of organic, local vegetables every week.

The last thing I want to leave you with is a feeling of guilt. When it comes to nutrition and feeding our families we all do our best with what we have access to and can afford. Organic or not, always serve fruits and vegetables, fresh, frozen, or even canned if that’s what you’ve got!

~Megan

 


















Megan Witt, RD, LD  
Email:meganutritionworks@yahoo.com 
Ph:941-914-6659

References: 

The National Organic Program

Organic Consumers Association
www.organicconsumers.org


Environmental Working Group

Food News

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