For Philly, I don't have a tried and true fueling method this time. In April I did 3 Gus but I dropped one and ended the race starving. I was looking for ANYTHING any fans were handing out. I like the ideas of the SHOT BLOCKS - has anyone tried margarita? I've only tried one flavor and it was plum looking. I did like them. I've had the GU CHOMPS - only in orange and strawberry. I want to try the blueberry pom one! For GU, I need to get some chocolate mint - is it out yet? I have the vanilla gingerbread and it is AMAZING!! I'm thinking a combo of these will work for me. I like the up and coming PB & J idea - but I feel like I'd smoosh them. How does one carry those along?
Last day for Amazing Grass bars giveaway!!
Nicholas
11.10.2009
11.09.2009
Opinions/Experience Wanted
BABY VITAMINS
When I went to Nick's 9 month appointment on Friday, I asked about vitamins for Nick. Had I not asked, it would not have come up, but the pediatrician recommended tri-vi-sol or poly-vi-sol.
Does anyone have experience using either and is your baby on vitamins?
TAPER 2 weeks
I swim 2 times a week on average early in the morning. By the end of the day I am TIRED from that. I never seem to get to bed early enough to get 7-8 hours of sleep on these days, more like 6 when I have to get up so early. In the taper, should I bring this down to 1 time a week? It is good for my muscles and recovery... What do you do with the lower mileage - actually rest or cross train/yoga, etc?
GRAINS/CARBS
I'm not happy w/ my body right now. I stopped keeping track, and also stopped eating grains in the morning everyday. I cut back on the almond butter but probably still eat the same amount of nuts - maybe too many nuts? How many grains do you eat a day? I just read something in runners world saying we only need 3 ounces which is equal to 1/2 cup of rice. Which to me is one serving a day. I think on average I have kashi cereal (1 serving) as a snack, maybe a piece of bread (another serving?) and a grain at least once a day (dinner or breakfast sometimes). Maybe my carb levels are way too high? What is your diet like? I tracked calories today to see how I was doing and was around 1800. I think that is on target, I can't imagine losing weight and eating more. I keep going back and forth with this!!
And an update : Nick in the costume won $1000 - it came in the form of an American Express gift card. We got it today. I ended up ordering stockings from Pottery Barn for Bill and I and PBK for Nick (and 3 more ones for possible future children (or pets?) so that they'll match!) If you are in the market for stockings, PB may be on the last days of free shipping and monogramming on them!
When I went to Nick's 9 month appointment on Friday, I asked about vitamins for Nick. Had I not asked, it would not have come up, but the pediatrician recommended tri-vi-sol or poly-vi-sol.
Does anyone have experience using either and is your baby on vitamins?
TAPER 2 weeks
I swim 2 times a week on average early in the morning. By the end of the day I am TIRED from that. I never seem to get to bed early enough to get 7-8 hours of sleep on these days, more like 6 when I have to get up so early. In the taper, should I bring this down to 1 time a week? It is good for my muscles and recovery... What do you do with the lower mileage - actually rest or cross train/yoga, etc?
GRAINS/CARBS
I'm not happy w/ my body right now. I stopped keeping track, and also stopped eating grains in the morning everyday. I cut back on the almond butter but probably still eat the same amount of nuts - maybe too many nuts? How many grains do you eat a day? I just read something in runners world saying we only need 3 ounces which is equal to 1/2 cup of rice. Which to me is one serving a day. I think on average I have kashi cereal (1 serving) as a snack, maybe a piece of bread (another serving?) and a grain at least once a day (dinner or breakfast sometimes). Maybe my carb levels are way too high? What is your diet like? I tracked calories today to see how I was doing and was around 1800. I think that is on target, I can't imagine losing weight and eating more. I keep going back and forth with this!!
And an update : Nick in the costume won $1000 - it came in the form of an American Express gift card. We got it today. I ended up ordering stockings from Pottery Barn for Bill and I and PBK for Nick (and 3 more ones for possible future children (or pets?) so that they'll match!) If you are in the market for stockings, PB may be on the last days of free shipping and monogramming on them!
Chocolate Agave #9 Review & Giveaway
I read about Chocolate Agave #9 on another running blog and was interested in trying it. I contacted the company and scored some to try out.
About the Product:
Chocolate Agave #9 is a low glycemic energy gel made only with belgian dark cocoa and organic agave. That's right - 2 ingredients! It is a vegan, organic product. The low glycemic index has been shown to withhold an energy crash and cause no stomach distress as the body metabolizes the gel evenly. The gel weights in at 70 calories, 75 mg sodium and 15 g carbs.
Review:
Well, I used this not only for an energy gel, but for a snack and dessert! It is super dark and very rich! It worked best for me before swimming. I go very early, at 5am, and need something to hold me over and get me through the workout and this worked very well for me. It tastes like a treat - dark chocolate icing! I have used it for shorter runs both before and during, especially before I have eaten breakfast. I used it during 2 long runs as well and it kept me going. It has worked well for my stomach for all of these scenarios. Coming in at 70 calories, it is not a bad way to stave a chocolate craving!! Check it out here.
A trial size 3 pack costs $4.99, while you can purchase a 24 pack for $32.49.
GIVEAWAY: One box of Chocolate Agave #9: Ends November 13th
1 - let me know your long run fueling strategy (mandatory) - what do you use? when? every hour? when needed?
2- for extra entries, link back on your blog or tweet about this giveaway or do both
For each entry, be sure to leave a comment.
Winner has 48 hours to respond to email, or a new winner will be selected.
11.08.2009
The PURE bar - review
My original plan for this weekend's last long run was to run 12 miles - however, after last week's 19 miles (supposed to be 20) didn't go super well, I planned to do 16-18 this weekend. I felt like last weekend's long run was uneventful. It didn't feel like I ran 19 miles in the end and I felt like I really needed a good week this week!
None of my running buddies were around and I wasn't motivated to get up on Saturday to run with myself! I didn't have a plan for today either, and every place that I thought to run, I either didn't feel like driving there, or didn't feel safe. I really wanted to run on the roads and just leave my house and run, but didn't feel safe! Where do you do your long runs? Trails? neighborhoods? I'd have to hit main roads often if I ran around where I live. It was at a loss - so I hopped on the treadmill and set it to countdown from 18 miles. It was a great run actually. I did the first hour easy, then pumped it up for the next hour and a half and cooled down after that. Then I took Nick out for a mile in our little development (5 laps = one mile) so I ended up with 19 miles. My overall pace was just above 9 minute miles which I was happy with. Maybe I can PR in 2 weeks? I can't get excited though, because my treadmill runs always go so much better than running outside.
The only unfortunate part of this treadmill run was - how nice was it out today? It was gorgeous! And a perfect day to run outside. So that was bit of a bummer.
For fueling, I took a GU after an hour, some chomps during the second hour and a Chocolate Agave #9. I realized that some of the GU that I won in a giveaway was expired which was kind of gross, and that GU does the trick for me. I need to score some Chocolate Mint and more of the Gingerbread - so good!! :) What is your marathon fueling plan??
And a review : PURE BAR
I had seen the PURE bar on other blogs and contacted the company, and received some free samples of chocolate brownie and apple cinnamon bars.
PURE bar is made of raw organic foods only. The chocolate brownie, for example, contains:
Organic Dates, Organic Walnuts, Organic Agave Nectar, Organic Almonds, Organic Cashews, Organic Brown Rice Protein, Organic Cocoa and that’s all! (unless you count the 14 essential vitamins and minerals, important antioxidants from cocoa, and healthy Omega 3 fats in every bite). Nothing cooked. Nothing processed. Completely PURE.
I was sent sample size bars so I used them as snacks and found them to be delicious and really liked the fact that the ingredients were all raw and organic. The actual bars contain 200 calories
and would probably make a good afternoon snack.
PURE bars came about for vegetarians. The founder- Veronica, has a 6 year old daughter who decided to become a vegetarian. They are raw and gluten free. The bars contain a full serving of fruit AND they taste good. I really liked the chocolate brownie as a dessert treat!
The company is all about being green.
If you buy 3 bars and send in the wrappers, the company will plant a tree.
Flavors:
Apple Cinnamon,
Cherry Cashew,
Chocolate Brownie,
Cranberry Orange,
Trail Mix,
Wild Blueberry
Where can you find Pure Bar? Whole Foods and Trader Joe's - 2 of my favorite stores - are now carrying PURE bars. Woo hoo! For the store locator for other stores, click here.
Veronica- the founder of PURE bar, has a blog.
You can also follow her on twitter! Check out the PURE BAR homepage for all of the social networking tools that you need to check out PURE bar.
And last, you can request a coupon by going to the website!
None of my running buddies were around and I wasn't motivated to get up on Saturday to run with myself! I didn't have a plan for today either, and every place that I thought to run, I either didn't feel like driving there, or didn't feel safe. I really wanted to run on the roads and just leave my house and run, but didn't feel safe! Where do you do your long runs? Trails? neighborhoods? I'd have to hit main roads often if I ran around where I live. It was at a loss - so I hopped on the treadmill and set it to countdown from 18 miles. It was a great run actually. I did the first hour easy, then pumped it up for the next hour and a half and cooled down after that. Then I took Nick out for a mile in our little development (5 laps = one mile) so I ended up with 19 miles. My overall pace was just above 9 minute miles which I was happy with. Maybe I can PR in 2 weeks? I can't get excited though, because my treadmill runs always go so much better than running outside.
The only unfortunate part of this treadmill run was - how nice was it out today? It was gorgeous! And a perfect day to run outside. So that was bit of a bummer.
For fueling, I took a GU after an hour, some chomps during the second hour and a Chocolate Agave #9. I realized that some of the GU that I won in a giveaway was expired which was kind of gross, and that GU does the trick for me. I need to score some Chocolate Mint and more of the Gingerbread - so good!! :) What is your marathon fueling plan??
And a review : PURE BAR
I had seen the PURE bar on other blogs and contacted the company, and received some free samples of chocolate brownie and apple cinnamon bars.
PURE bar is made of raw organic foods only. The chocolate brownie, for example, contains:
Organic Dates, Organic Walnuts, Organic Agave Nectar, Organic Almonds, Organic Cashews, Organic Brown Rice Protein, Organic Cocoa and that’s all! (unless you count the 14 essential vitamins and minerals, important antioxidants from cocoa, and healthy Omega 3 fats in every bite). Nothing cooked. Nothing processed. Completely PURE.
I was sent sample size bars so I used them as snacks and found them to be delicious and really liked the fact that the ingredients were all raw and organic. The actual bars contain 200 calories
and would probably make a good afternoon snack.
PURE bars came about for vegetarians. The founder- Veronica, has a 6 year old daughter who decided to become a vegetarian. They are raw and gluten free. The bars contain a full serving of fruit AND they taste good. I really liked the chocolate brownie as a dessert treat!
The company is all about being green.
If you buy 3 bars and send in the wrappers, the company will plant a tree.
Flavors:
Apple Cinnamon,
Cherry Cashew,
Chocolate Brownie,
Cranberry Orange,
Trail Mix,
Wild Blueberry
Where can you find Pure Bar? Whole Foods and Trader Joe's - 2 of my favorite stores - are now carrying PURE bars. Woo hoo! For the store locator for other stores, click here.
Veronica- the founder of PURE bar, has a blog.
You can also follow her on twitter! Check out the PURE BAR homepage for all of the social networking tools that you need to check out PURE bar.
And last, you can request a coupon by going to the website!
11.06.2009
A dive off the couch & 9 months
Yesterday I plopped Nick on the couch in the corner propped there w/ a pillow while I stirred something for dinner. I literally turned around for a minute, and I turn to look at him and he is on all fours - the pillow is on the floor and he's about to dive right off the couch after it. I think I shouted NO NO NO!! And he was off... landed on the pillow shoulder first and I almost had a heart attack. He as ok after a huge crying session. I felt horrible. Stupid, stupid mom! You aren't supposed to leave them for a second. Before he used to just sit there, now he reaches for everything!! I couldn't put this on my baby blog because people read it, especially my inlaws. My father in law hates to hear him cry, so I'm pretty sure he would freak out to picture him falling off the couch. I definitely can't write anything about it.
Nick is 9 months old today! Crazy how fast the time went. I love the little hats on babies!
Nick is 9 months old today! Crazy how fast the time went. I love the little hats on babies!
11.05.2009
The schedule calls for 20
When I typed in the date to SmartCoach for the Philly Marathon in late September, it wasn't a full 16 weeks until the marathon. I just took a look at it, seeing the back to back 20 milers again, kind of forgetting that my plan was to do 12. I think I should probably do around 16-18? Last weekend was 20 and I did 19. The weekend before was an 18 miler. 2 weeks till marathon day, what should I run this weekend?
In baby thoughts, does your little one wake up mid nap usually? Nick's sleep patterns seem all messed up! He was doing so well and sleeping 2 hours in the morning and 2 in the afternoon on an ideal day. This week I'm lucky if I get more than an hour for one of the naps and around 40 minutes for the other. He used to wake up mid nap and go back to sleep after 10 minutes, but that doesn't seem to be happening anymore - he just stays up! He's 9 months tomorrow (crazy!)
What are your thoughts?
Update on everything else - I kind of stopped counting calories and being aware and seem to be up a few pounds. WTF - I cannot seem to make anything work for me and I don't feel like I'm overeating. I'm doing Jillian Michaels once a week and swimming at least twice a week. So unfair, I want new genetics for my body type. Eat clean seemed to be a trend (I was making yogurt cheese for a few weeks and then stopped)- but I use some of the tips in there everyday and try to incorporate protein at most meals.
In baby thoughts, does your little one wake up mid nap usually? Nick's sleep patterns seem all messed up! He was doing so well and sleeping 2 hours in the morning and 2 in the afternoon on an ideal day. This week I'm lucky if I get more than an hour for one of the naps and around 40 minutes for the other. He used to wake up mid nap and go back to sleep after 10 minutes, but that doesn't seem to be happening anymore - he just stays up! He's 9 months tomorrow (crazy!)
What are your thoughts?
Update on everything else - I kind of stopped counting calories and being aware and seem to be up a few pounds. WTF - I cannot seem to make anything work for me and I don't feel like I'm overeating. I'm doing Jillian Michaels once a week and swimming at least twice a week. So unfair, I want new genetics for my body type. Eat clean seemed to be a trend (I was making yogurt cheese for a few weeks and then stopped)- but I use some of the tips in there everyday and try to incorporate protein at most meals.
Winner - Solstice Bar
The winner is #13: Sarah! Congrats!
You have 48 hours to email me with your address! tosha25italia at yahoo.
11.04.2009
It's the most wonderful time of the year
Yes, Halloween is out, Christmas is in. Can I put my tree up yet? I love Christmas. I always thought it was crazy to have the stuff out right after Halloween, but this year I love it! Maybe it is because Christmas is even more fun when there is a baby to base it around? Bring on the christmas songs, decorations, commercials - I'm ready!
It's kind of like Christmas on my blog recently - lots of giveaways going on and more to come!
Solstice bar - ends tomorrow - there are only 20 comments! Can we get more on this one? If we make it to 50, there will be 2 winners!
Amazing Grass - ends next week I might make up a fake name and win this one - haha :)
Nick hasn't adjusted to the time change yet and is getting up at 6:30! (instead of 7:30) - that hour is when I have time to myself, usually I'm running or on the computer. I hope he gets back to his normal thing and adjusts to the time! Is that happening to anyone else?
It's kind of like Christmas on my blog recently - lots of giveaways going on and more to come!
Solstice bar - ends tomorrow - there are only 20 comments! Can we get more on this one? If we make it to 50, there will be 2 winners!
Amazing Grass - ends next week I might make up a fake name and win this one - haha :)
Nick hasn't adjusted to the time change yet and is getting up at 6:30! (instead of 7:30) - that hour is when I have time to myself, usually I'm running or on the computer. I hope he gets back to his normal thing and adjusts to the time! Is that happening to anyone else?
11.03.2009
Stockings
Has anyone ever made christmas stockings? I want some nice looking embroidered stockings, but spending $20 + on them seems atrocious. However, I don't know how much embroidery would cost anyway if I did make them myself. If you are a parents and have your names on them, do you have mom, dad, or your first names? I'm a novice seamstress. I like the pottery barn ones. Let me know if you have any suggestions!
11.02.2009
Amazing Grass new flavors - giveaway
Want to try the Amazing Grass bars? Yeah...you totally do!! This is a giveaway for one case
(12 bars) of your choice of flavor of the yummy Green bars! Too bad I can't win this!!
I recommend the chocolate peanut butter! This giveaway will end November 10th.
Here's how to enter:
1) Leave a comment telling me what type of bar you would want to try.
For extra entries:
*Link back to this post and leave a comment that you did so.
* Add me to your blog roll and leave a comment to let me know!
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be selected.
If you can't wait to try these, use the code healthy123 to save 15% off your order!
Other giveaways going on:
SOLSTICE BAR
NATURE'S PATH
HOT CHOCOLATE
(12 bars) of your choice of flavor of the yummy Green bars! Too bad I can't win this!!
I recommend the chocolate peanut butter! This giveaway will end November 10th.
Here's how to enter:
1) Leave a comment telling me what type of bar you would want to try.
For extra entries:
*Link back to this post and leave a comment that you did so.
* Add me to your blog roll and leave a comment to let me know!
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be selected.
If you can't wait to try these, use the code healthy123 to save 15% off your order!
Other giveaways going on:
SOLSTICE BAR
NATURE'S PATH
HOT CHOCOLATE
11.01.2009
AMAZING GRASS new flavors- review
Teri Jo from Amazing Grass sent 2 new flavors of the energy bars:
Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bar
Berry Whole Food Bar
I was a huge huge fan of the chocolate peanut butter protein bar. Not only did I feel like I was putting good things into my body, but it was delicious!! I need the chocolate coating. :)
Here are the ingredients:
Organic Dates, Organic Dark Chocolate Coating (Cane Sugar, Unsweetened Chocolate, Cocoa Butter, Non-GMO Soy Lecithin, Natural Vanilla Flavor), Organic Agave Nectar, Amazing Grass Green SuperFood (Organic Wheat Grass, Organic Barley Grass, Organic Alfalfa, Organic Spirulina, Organic Spinach, Organic Chlorella, Organic Broccoli, Organic Acai, Organic Maca, Organic Carrot, Organic Beet, Raspberry, Organic Rose Hips, Pineapple, Green Tea, Organic Flax Lignans, L. Adidophilus, Alpha and Beta Amylase, Protease, Lipase, Lactase, Cellulase, Organic Peppermint), Organic Cashews, Organic Almond Butter, Organic Almonds, Organic Sunflower Seeds, Organic Dried Cranberries, Organic Cacao Nibs, Organic Pumpkin Seeds, Organic Dried Coconut and Organic Vanilla Extract. Allergy Information: Contains Almonds and Cashews
From the website:
I can honestly say that I really liked the taste of this bar and on the days when I am in a rush and need to grab something, this was perfect! Find your local retailer here.
I have seen Amazing Grass products at Whole Foods, and Amazon sells them as well. The Amazing Grass site sells 12 bars for $36.
I am definitely going to pick these up for my rushed days!
10.31.2009
"I used to run marathons"
That was the quote that I was thinking of when I was running my 20 this morning... almost 20, I think I did around 19 or 19.5 and wiped out (it was slippery and I slipped on a rock) at the end and called it a day! Last long training run, but I didn't nail it. I think I'll just be out for a finish on Nov 22! It stinks that I'm not into this training - it is disheartening.
The fun part about the run is that I met Denise for the first time in person - yay! It was nice to run with her and meet her!
Fueling- I think I was dehydrated, water looked so refreshing. I only took one GU after 2 hours. My face was all salty at the end - is that good or bad? My fueling strategy needs work. My stomach is definitely sensitive lately.
As I was running I was thinking of the needed break that I will take after the marathon, and then maybe pick a tri to do in 2010. I don't know which distance I should start with for the tri. I think I will have fun with that!
Don't forget to enter the Solstice Giveaway! The bars are super good!
The fun part about the run is that I met Denise for the first time in person - yay! It was nice to run with her and meet her!
Fueling- I think I was dehydrated, water looked so refreshing. I only took one GU after 2 hours. My face was all salty at the end - is that good or bad? My fueling strategy needs work. My stomach is definitely sensitive lately.
As I was running I was thinking of the needed break that I will take after the marathon, and then maybe pick a tri to do in 2010. I don't know which distance I should start with for the tri. I think I will have fun with that!
Don't forget to enter the Solstice Giveaway! The bars are super good!
10.30.2009
Thanks for your votes everyone!
The tiresome campaigning - paid off!! Thank you everyone for your votes! Nick won the contest.
I appreciate all of your votes :) so much!
Vote vote vote
Today is the last day of the contest, so I ask for you to please vote! You can vote everyday so if you voted yesterday - you can vote again today. I don't know how the pirate he is up against right now is keeping up- I seriously feel like I am campaigning!!
http://philly.upickem.net/engine/Details.aspx?p=V&c=11076&s=1902108&i=1#SD
Thanks for your votes!! I super appreciate it!
http://philly.upickem.net/
Thanks for your votes!! I super appreciate it!
10.29.2009
Winner
The winner was #35... Jaime. Congrats!
Stay tuned for another giveaway today!
Please vote for Nick today and tomorrow if you have a chance :) I really appreciate it!
10.28.2009
Last day for giveaway: earn 2 extra entries
Today is the last day for the fun giveaway!! I will pick a winner @ random and post it tomorrow - with another giveaway too!
For an extra 2 entries today on the autumn giveaway, vote for Nick in this local Halloween contest - I've posted the link at the top of the blog. He is doing really well, and might be a contender, but needs your votes!! :) The prize is $1000 - which to me right now not working is gold!! It is kind of a pain in that you have to register to vote, but all that you need is to fill out a form and username/password, and you can vote. He is on the first page, the 12th entry I think, but if you click the link on my blog, it should take you right to his entry and you can register to vote. I appreciate it!! If you do vote, please leave 2 extra comments on the giveaway post so that I can count them for you!
Does anyone eat the Kashi Honey Sunshine Cereal? I have 5 great coupons that expire on Saturday for $1.50 off one box of the cereal. I can mail them out today - just leave a comment if you want them and include your email address so that I can get in touch with you!
10.26.2009
15+ 3
This weekend an 18er was scheduled. I met up with Halley - who ran with me 2 weeks ago when I did 16. She did her first half marathon in September (PDR) and the most she ran so far was on Saturday - 15 miles. She is fast, she had a 1:45 at her first 1/2 - she ran XC in high school but is just getting into the racing scene. We did out and backs at Valley Forge on Saturday - it was humid and drizzly and I wasn't having a good day with some stomach issues, but we finished 15 miles. Several hours later I dragged myself on the treadmill to do 3 miles. I know it doesn't count the same as doing 18 straight, but at this point, I don't care that much - I'm doing maintenance miles to FINISH the marathon:)
I was happy it was done on Saturday and I could sleep on Sunday!
I'm actually looking forward to the marathon, but the training is not my highlight right now!
This week coming up is the 20. I think the weather will be cooler and I'll be happy to be done!
Cross training - Lifting
Last week I didn't lift at all but I swim 3 days a week. Do you cross train while marathon training? What about lifting? I can't fit it all in!
Don't forget to enter the giveaway - it ends Wednesday & now has additions such as GU, GU drink, Chocolate Agave #9, And various other fun things!!
I was happy it was done on Saturday and I could sleep on Sunday!
I'm actually looking forward to the marathon, but the training is not my highlight right now!
This week coming up is the 20. I think the weather will be cooler and I'll be happy to be done!
Cross training - Lifting
Last week I didn't lift at all but I swim 3 days a week. Do you cross train while marathon training? What about lifting? I can't fit it all in!
Don't forget to enter the giveaway - it ends Wednesday & now has additions such as GU, GU drink, Chocolate Agave #9, And various other fun things!!
10.25.2009
REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY: SOLSTICE BAR
Fountain of Youth blend
PRODUCTThe bars come in a package split into 2 bars with a chocolate filling in the middle. There are 3 flavors - 1) Dark chocolate, cherry & almond, 2)Mochadamia and 3) Dark Chocolate and Peanut butter. You can guess which one was my favorite. The Dark Chocolate, Cherry and Almond (with flax, hempseeds, cherries and almond)was fantastic, the Mochadamia had espresso beans in it and was a great morning wake up, and the Chocolate/Peanut Butter (their best seller)was divine.
The bars were all similar in that they each have goji berries in them. They are made with agave syrup, belgian dark chocolate, rolled oats, and a mix of nuts, seeds, and grains. These bars were delicious. Each 1/2 bar (pictured above is one bar split into two halves) contains 150 calories (170 for the peanut butter/chocolate). It is perfect if you want to grab a snack, or eat the whole bar for a small meal.
The bars have been a favorite of President Obama and been said to keep his energy high!
The new Solstice "Fountain of Youth" Blend contains 8 antioxidant rich fruits, nut and cocoa nibs and makes a great addition to yogurt, cereal, or a baked good, or can be eaten right out of the bag. I had it with a spoon and it was fantastic.
Check out the website for a further description of the products.
COMPANY
The company sprouted from a small café in Oregon to the whole country. Reiner Bohlen and wife Stephanie wanted to share their discovery of a nutritious delicious bar. Solstice Bakery is family-owned & their bars are handmade in their Corvallis bakery.
GIVEAWAY!
Giveaway Rules:
Visit the Solstice Bar website and post the name of the Solstice retailer closest to you. You can find this under "Buy some bars." The winner will receive a 6 pack of bars (2 of each) and a bag of "Fountain of Youth" yum. There is a giveaway for every 50 comments, so encourage your friends to visit my blog for more prize packs!!
I will use random.org to select one winner at random on November 5th. The giveaway with close November 4th at midnight. Be sure to leave your email so that I can contact you. Winner has 48 hours to respond to email.
And please vote for Nick!! :)
10.23.2009
Motivation
Thanks Mama Simmons for this link. Check out Kristin Armstrong's blog on motivation today - it made me think, and feel like I am just in a phase where I am seeking balance. I used to be in autopilot - workout, go to work, come home, do work, go to bed. My life has changed (since adjusting to having a baby in the house) and I will get back to where I used to be - or not ? I will find happiness and balance however it should be. It's a great post!
ANd...
I totally forgot this item which I may buy for myself ... but a VIDEO MONITOR??
I need that pronto.. anyone have one?
I need that pronto.. anyone have one?
10.22.2009
THe 'bers and wish list
Once September hits, then October...Christmas is right around the corner. It's the beginning of the months ending in BER - and the fall/winter season! I love fall. It is by far my favorite season, surpassing summer by a huge chunk! Christmas is also my birthday and I just realized that I am more than 30.5 years old and have been for a while and am going to hit 31 this December. Sickening. In any case, I already have a wish list of what I am coveting so I wanted to start keeping track of it :)
YES definitely list
* A new bottom to our sleigh bed (Story behind that one - When we got married I picked out a sleigh bed with raised top and bottom, and my inlaws ended up picking a furniture set for us and it didn't have the bottom that I wanted... I bang into it ALL the time and I want the raised bottom so bad!)
* pedicure, manicure, a new face...any spa treatments that will reduce my age
* Road ID. I should have bought one of these things for myself but I haven't.
* Babysitter for a few hours. How nice would it be to have a bunch of time to myself- pair it with the spa. Love it.
*Pottery Barn (and pottery barn Kids) gift certificates so I can make over my house
* Clothes gift certificates so I can get a new MOM wardrobe. All my shirts seem too short!! poo.
MAYBE list
* one of those things that goes on your treadmill for your laptop so that you can use it while on there. Hey, maybe I'd walk more instead of sitting while reading/commenting on blogs. Do you have one? What do you think?
DREAM list *
A maid and personal chef + live in trainer and swing set in my backyard + indoor pool
What is on your list?
YES definitely list
* A new bottom to our sleigh bed (Story behind that one - When we got married I picked out a sleigh bed with raised top and bottom, and my inlaws ended up picking a furniture set for us and it didn't have the bottom that I wanted... I bang into it ALL the time and I want the raised bottom so bad!)
* pedicure, manicure, a new face...any spa treatments that will reduce my age
* Road ID. I should have bought one of these things for myself but I haven't.
* Babysitter for a few hours. How nice would it be to have a bunch of time to myself- pair it with the spa. Love it.
*Pottery Barn (and pottery barn Kids) gift certificates so I can make over my house
* Clothes gift certificates so I can get a new MOM wardrobe. All my shirts seem too short!! poo.
MAYBE list
* one of those things that goes on your treadmill for your laptop so that you can use it while on there. Hey, maybe I'd walk more instead of sitting while reading/commenting on blogs. Do you have one? What do you think?
DREAM list *
A maid and personal chef + live in trainer and swing set in my backyard + indoor pool
What is on your list?
Staying at home is making me fat
...and ditzy too. For example on the no brain part - I just made kale. I put most of it in a bowl for dinner to saute later. I put a handful in a cup to make a smoothie (Haven't had one in a while). I took out the greens + powder and put it in the bowl for dinner. Ughhhh. Gross. I don't think anymore.
And yes, I have no self control over eating when I am at home. I try all these new recipes and am my own taste tester. I have food available to me all day long. As soon as I feel any sign of hunger, I can act on it (not so when at work). Oh well, I wouldn't change the staying at home/working thing but it does make it challenging. I wish I could continue the calorie counting - I just can't keep it together! I think blogging makes me fat too - reading blogs with all of these great recipes. Even though they are **mostly** healthy, it is still extra food like desserts. Check out this one for some yummy vegan recipes. I tried the banana bread yesterday but made it pumpkin - it was very sweet and tasted like cookie bars.
The long runs coming up. Ugh. I am not feeling it at all. I feel like 12 miles is all I want to do this weekend. And this week and next week are the heavy mileage weeks. Why am I not feeling it?? The GU should be a nice motivational boost but I'm wondering why I even signed up for the marathon? I wish my motivation didn't SUCK right now! Speaking of GU I "sipped" some of the vanilla gingerbread. Yum yum.. and yum. Definitely check that out. I have to get a hold of some chocolate mint ... Since I am swimming regularly - I think I might try to get into the triathlons and make that my 2010 goal. Maybe I need a break from running.
Check this out...
New blog that I read : Billie - she's training for Philly too! and has a little guy who is about a year older than Nick. She posts great recipes (mmm pumpkin pasta) and talks about running and healthy eating too! Too bad we don't live closer, I think she'd be a great running buddy! :)
And yes, I have no self control over eating when I am at home. I try all these new recipes and am my own taste tester. I have food available to me all day long. As soon as I feel any sign of hunger, I can act on it (not so when at work). Oh well, I wouldn't change the staying at home/working thing but it does make it challenging. I wish I could continue the calorie counting - I just can't keep it together! I think blogging makes me fat too - reading blogs with all of these great recipes. Even though they are **mostly** healthy, it is still extra food like desserts. Check out this one for some yummy vegan recipes. I tried the banana bread yesterday but made it pumpkin - it was very sweet and tasted like cookie bars.
The long runs coming up. Ugh. I am not feeling it at all. I feel like 12 miles is all I want to do this weekend. And this week and next week are the heavy mileage weeks. Why am I not feeling it?? The GU should be a nice motivational boost but I'm wondering why I even signed up for the marathon? I wish my motivation didn't SUCK right now! Speaking of GU I "sipped" some of the vanilla gingerbread. Yum yum.. and yum. Definitely check that out. I have to get a hold of some chocolate mint ... Since I am swimming regularly - I think I might try to get into the triathlons and make that my 2010 goal. Maybe I need a break from running.
Check this out...
New blog that I read : Billie - she's training for Philly too! and has a little guy who is about a year older than Nick. She posts great recipes (mmm pumpkin pasta) and talks about running and healthy eating too! Too bad we don't live closer, I think she'd be a great running buddy! :)
10.21.2009
Extra entries
Win an extra entry to the giveaway by linking back from your blog - let me know that you did by a comment on the giveaway post!
a GUUUUUUoood Day
Besides this fantastic weather that we are having up north - it is close to 70 today!, Fed Ex came to bring me a big box of GU treats which today made my day. Last week or so when thinking about what I was doing for fuel during long runs and the marathon, I shared that I was boycotting GU since I contacted them to try their new things and no one returned my inquiry. Well! Then - I received a comment from Devon who is part
of the PR team for GU who then sent me all of these treats: Roctane GU (haven't tried it yet and the pineapple flavor is caffeine free!, GU Chomps, Recovery drink, electrolyte drink AND the most exciting flavor that I can't wait to "eat" - Vanilla Gingerbread. YUM!! I am now looking forward to my long run this weekend so that I can try all of these GUs! Stay tuned to hear about the different flavors and products!And - I will definitely share and throw a GU or 2 into my fall giveaway - so make sure you enter!
Today swimming went like this -
4:38 am - looking at the clock. Alarm usually goes off at 4:40. Turn off alarm.
4:48am - Should I go? My arm kind of hurts from the flu shot yesterday. I start doing strokes in bed. Ehhh... I'll get up at 4:50. Maybe I could use some extra sleep. Should I skip it today? Hmm.. If I skip it, I'll have to work out during Nick's nap this morning. Maybe I can suck it up and just go.
4:55 - up and out of bed. It was a decent workout. I was thinking driving home about the privacy issues that DC Running Mama was dealing with, and how I shouldn't write anything I wouldn't one someone that I swim with (hardly know anyone) to read. But - I'll tell you, a fast chick came back from having the flu and it was SOo nice without her. She changes the set and cheats - what is the point?? I swam in her lane today and it wasn't thrillingly enjoyable. With her not there, there was a nice happy medium. But - that's all I'll say. Hopefully she won't find my blog.
Happy sunshiney day!
10.20.2009
Autumn GIVEAWAY
I'd like to share some of the things I have had the opportunity to try lately with you. Here we have:
Tri Berry Nuun
Banana Nuun
Cashew Almond Prana Bar
Pistachio Pumpkin Boomi Bar
Original Flavor Tempo Bar
and I might throw a few more things in there : )
1. To enter, go back to my review on Prana and Boomi Bars and comment THERE on which bar (boomi or prana) and which flavor you would be the most interested in. If your email is not linked up please leave your email in the comment.
2. For an extra entry, become a follower of my blog and leave a comment HERE that you did so.
3. For another extra entry, link back to my blog by posting the giveaway on your blog! Leave a comment HERE that you did so!
Contest ends Wednesday, October 28th - winner will be emailed & announced here and have 48 hours to respond.
Tri Berry Nuun
Banana Nuun
Cashew Almond Prana Bar
Pistachio Pumpkin Boomi Bar
Original Flavor Tempo Bar
and I might throw a few more things in there : )
1. To enter, go back to my review on Prana and Boomi Bars and comment THERE on which bar (boomi or prana) and which flavor you would be the most interested in. If your email is not linked up please leave your email in the comment.
2. For an extra entry, become a follower of my blog and leave a comment HERE that you did so.
3. For another extra entry, link back to my blog by posting the giveaway on your blog! Leave a comment HERE that you did so!
Contest ends Wednesday, October 28th - winner will be emailed & announced here and have 48 hours to respond.
10.19.2009
2 more weeks
These next 2 weeks are my longest long runs coming up - an 18 miler this coming weekend and 20 miles Halloween weekend. I am trying to figure out how and where I will run them. The best 20 mile training run that I had was running part of a marathon this spring - I wish that I could find one so that I could do that again! The last time I was training for Philly I had a group of friends running it too - this time, I'm going it solo! I'm looking forward to the next 2 weekend runs to be done and looking for a good way to get them in and enjoy them!
10.18.2009
No thank you!
It has been a nice year and 5 months since I had my friendly period. Nick is almost 8.5 months old and I'm still nursing, but I heard you still get it around 8-10 months. Nooooooooo! I am so bloated and just feel it coming along. I feel like CRAP! I got in a 10 miler on the treadmill due to the weather but it absolutely sucked. I felt like I was at the end of my pregnancy the way that I was taking breaks to sit on the couch right next to the treadmill to take a break. I had shortness of breath and just a feeling of total bloatedness. I'm on day 2 of feeling like this, my whole stomach just totally uncomfortable. All I want is bread right now. Ugh - I don't want this thing back!! Please tell me it gets better!
10.17.2009
REVIEW: Boomi Bar, Prana Bar
I saw Boomi Bars and Prana Bars on another blog at some point and contacted the company to see if I could try them and review them. One day I arrived home to a package filled with 2 boxes of these bars, one box of Prana bars and one box of Boomi bars. I was so excited!THE COMPANY
The company is located in California and is family owned and operated. The founde,Graeme Duncan studied philosophy while traveling Europe, India and China and visiting temples. He wanted to create a healthy, environmentally friendly and tasty energy bar. “Our philosophy is that the body is a Temple, and we should only introduce first class healthy foods into this complex but beautiful gift, the human body.” (from the company website)
THE PRODUCT
Boomi Bar
Boomi is sanskrit for EARTH. All of the ingredients are very close to the ground - these contain only fruit, nuts, seeds, grains and honey as the sweetener. They are gluten free (hey you GF Gidget - check these out!) On the back of the bar it says that research shows that honey may help speed up recovery of tired muscles and that honey works to give a pre and post workout boost - great for athletes! Most of the bars contain puffed amaranth (a grain I haven't tried) and dates, some have crisp rice, but the rest of the ingredients are basically what the name of the bar is! Very natural, and these are hand rolled!
The flavors were:
Almond Protein Plus: This was different than the rest - made only with honey, almonds and protein powder. It reminded me of a raw cookie made with nuts and sweetener. It looks kind of weird but was tasty for a protein bar!
Self explanatory:
Apricot Cashew
Cashew Almond
Cranberry Apple - 2nd favorite
Fruit and Nut
Healthy Hazel
Macadamia Paradise
Maple Pecan - my favorite
Perfect Pumpkin - chock full of pumpkin seeds!
Pineapple Ginger
Pistachio Pineapple
Walnut Date
Cashew Protein Plus
Perfect Pumpkin
They were fantastic!! Bill also gave them a 5 star rating! (and he is not into this health food stuff). They range from 190 to 260 calories with the ginger pineapple on the lower end and cashew almond on the higher end.
PRANA BAR
In Sanskrit, Prana means vital energy. These bars are organic and made with raw unprocessed fruit and nuts. They look similar to the Boomi Bars but have a few more ingredients such as almond butter, agave nectar and some have goji or acai powder. They were a bit softer. Prana bars are 50-77% raw depending on the bar.
The nuts and seeds require slow cooking which is not a raw process.
The flavors for these bars are:
Apple Pie - probably my favorite of the bunch. Delicious: apple, dates, sweet and yummy!
Apricot Goji - a twist of the two tastes - yum!
Apricot Pumpkin - you could taste and see the pumpkin seeds :) *Bill's favorite
Cashew Almond - a mix of the 2 nuts!
Pear Ginseng - mmm - pear and ginseng, with sesame seeds. An excellent combo.
Coconut Acai - 2nd place, this tasted like an oatmeal cookie.
These were a little bit sweeter than the boomi bars but very similar - like sisters!
We grabbed both of these bars for a snack, breakfast on the go, and post - workout fuel. While the Boomi bars had less ingredients, I preferred the sweeter taste and texture of the Prana bars. I would eat either one of these as part of a healthy day - and found them great post long run and post workout.
WHERE TO FIND THESE
Where can you get these ? The company is sporting a new website here. They have discount pricing for automatic delivery and are currently running a promotion for $5 off online orders, if you use the code WEBSITE. A case of 24 Boomi bars goes for $38.40 on the website, and 24 Prana bars for $40.99. You can find them locally by typing in your zipcode here. Find them on amazon for around the same price (varies by flavor), but save 15% if you have them auto delivered. The prices are comparable to Lara Bars I recommend the variety pack which costs a little bit more, but has all of the flavors. Enjoy!
LOOK out for:
They are coming out with SuperCharger Bars which are the prana bars with antioxidants added in - I can't wait to try these delicious sounding flavors!!
10.16.2009
Tonight was make your own pizza night with my cousins. I made the whole wheat dough (top) and bought a plain one for Bill and my cousin Mike. I made lots of veggies, the sauce, and meatballs for the guys. IT was really fun, I would totally do it again!!
I didn't try the veggie burgers yet but I made some pumpkin soup with veggie broth and pumpkin - it was super easy and I just through it together :)
Gluten Free Gidget sent me a fantastic looking veggie burger recipe that I must try! Thank you : )
10.15.2009
VEGGIE BURGERS & pumpkin
I love Dr. Praeger's Veggie burgers - I feel like it is chock full of veggies. However, they go for maybe $3.50 at Trader Joe's and they are gone in an instant. I really want to find a great veggie burger recipe that is full of veggies - do you have one??
Today I was up before Nick to run. My legs were not awake! It was not fantastic - but it was done and gave me time to do other things during his nap :) Looks like a yucky weekend to get in a 10 miler, humpf.
I enjoyed reading the cravings - um, Sarah, I wish I craved fruit and healthy things!!
I made the groat bread with millet and it didn't turn out quite as well but still yummy! It seemed more dry though. How about pumpkin? I am looking for a healthy pumpkin recipe. I made bread - decently healthy. I've used it in pasta but I'm not a pasta girl anymore - grains grains grains!! This morning, Nick had millet with nut butter, pumpkin, mango and flax. He is one lucky baby (well the verdict is still out on that one). I finished it - it was delicious really. See - even he is excited about it below. Breakfast is definitely my favorite meal to give Nick. The rest seem boring!
We are also getting into child proofing. I don't even know where to start. What were your most important things? Seems like I could go nuts buying things...
If you have any recipes to share - please pass along!! :)
Today I was up before Nick to run. My legs were not awake! It was not fantastic - but it was done and gave me time to do other things during his nap :) Looks like a yucky weekend to get in a 10 miler, humpf.
I enjoyed reading the cravings - um, Sarah, I wish I craved fruit and healthy things!!
I made the groat bread with millet and it didn't turn out quite as well but still yummy! It seemed more dry though. How about pumpkin? I am looking for a healthy pumpkin recipe. I made bread - decently healthy. I've used it in pasta but I'm not a pasta girl anymore - grains grains grains!! This morning, Nick had millet with nut butter, pumpkin, mango and flax. He is one lucky baby (well the verdict is still out on that one). I finished it - it was delicious really. See - even he is excited about it below. Breakfast is definitely my favorite meal to give Nick. The rest seem boring!
We are also getting into child proofing. I don't even know where to start. What were your most important things? Seems like I could go nuts buying things...
If you have any recipes to share - please pass along!! :)
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