Wednesday, December 28, 2011
The Last of the Wright Socks Winners!
But anyway here is the list of the remaining Wright Socks winners!!!
Wednesday- Detroit Runner (Jeff) and Elle from Eat Run Sail
Thursday- Heather @ Just a Colorado Gal and Suz and Allan from Cows and Lasers and Everything in Between
Friday- Penny from Pink Hat Runner and Mother Runner from Life in the Twin Lane
Saturday- Baby Weight my Fat Ass and Crystal from Am I a runner......or Just Crazy
In case you missed the first round of winners check HERE! (I am still waiting to hear from one of those winners!!)
EMAIL ME your mailing info and shoe size so I can pass the info along:)
Hope EVERYONE had a WONDERFUL MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Santa Hustle Smokies 1/2 Marathon
We ended up staying at the host hotel which was the Wilderness of the Smokies, they have an indoor water park should have taken my suit, which is also where the packet pickup was. I really wasn't feeling all that well but didn't say anything about it to anyone. We picked up our packets, checked into our room and headed out the door for some retail therapy at the outlet mall! After a couple of hours of shopping we headed on over to Olive Garden for some YUMMY pasta salad and breadsticks :) We ended up back at out hotel and in the bed by 9:30p.m. ~ look out husbands we are party animals LOL!
Something the race directors wanted (and included) was for everyone to wear the red Santa shirt, hat and beard!
HO! HO! HO! |
Me, Sheri, Carmen and Sarah Aren't we the cutest Santa's EVER?!?! |
Miles 5 - 9: I am so thankful I told myself I was doing this just for fun I was really feeling the effects of NOT training. During these miles I did lots of run/walk at first I would take short 30 - 45 second walk breaks and run at least 5mins or longer. After I reached the turn around I started feeling a little better and was able to run about a mile and a half without walking. Then I was back to run/walk but with longer walks this time. I kept checking my watch and trying to figure out how close to 1:59:59 I could get IF I could just pull myself together and GO! Nice thought anyway remember I am doing this for FUN!
Miles 10 - 13.2: (Isn't it suppose to be 13.1??)Yea by the time I reached mile 10 I was pretty much done for. I told myself several times "its only a 5k left" only the longest 5k ever! I tried my very best to actually run as much of it as I could then I told myself just try to run the entire last mile, well that was out as well....at about mile 12.85 making the last turn to the finish one of the race officials asked me if I was alright, if I needed anything and if I could finish?? Did I really look that bad??
My Finish Stats: Official finish time 2:19:00
Age Division: 35/65
Overall: 384/634
Looks like I was stuck in the middle!
Not my best performance, Not my worst, Not too bad considering lack of training! I felt AWFUL when I did finally finish, my legs hurt, my head hurt, my belly ached and I quit sweating and had the chills.
Overall for a first time event it was very well organized. Will more than likely do it again next year! (With better training :) I would recommend this race to anyone even though it is pretty much just one long hill both ways in/out but with the right training I think anyone could achieve a PR!
Super Thirsty! |
Sheri, Sarah & Me -I look super tired UGGHH! |
Super Cute Medal!! I am all about the Medals :) |
Wednesday Winners
Now lets get to some WINNERS!!!!!
The winner of the Ultimate II Running Belt from IFitness is.........
Rose @ Eat, Drink and Be Meiri
Mondays Wright Sock winners are.........
Just Jen and Running Moose
Tuesdays Wright Sock winners are........
Jill R (couldn't find a Blog link for you!) and Sweet and Savory By Sarah
Congrats Winners!!! Email Me your mailing info so I can pass it along!!
Also Don't forget there is still 4 more days of Wright Sock Winners to come!! If you haven't entered to win yet do so HERE!!!!
Friday, December 16, 2011
2011 Holiday Gift Guide- Giveaway #3 Wright Socks (With 12 WINNERS:)
WRIGHT SOCKS!!!
I was sent three different styles of WRIGHT SOCKS to try out. They were the Lightweight Cool Mesh II, the Midweight Running II and the Cushioned DLX. First of all let me just say I LOVE socks, socks of any kind!! A few years ago I showed up at work with a hole in the heel of my sock that was visible, one of the ladies I work with bought me a pair of Christmas socks during her lunch hour and brought them back to me! From that point on I haven't worn plain white socks (except for running:) since, almost always now when I purchase socks they are colorful or designed!!
But anyway back to the Review/Giveaway....... I have a worn WRIGHT SOCKS before and LOVE them!! They are one of my favorite brand of running socks. These socks are the softest socks ever and they have a perfect fit, they don't slide around or bunch up on my feet! My favorite style of the WRIGHT SOCKS would be a tie between the Cool Mesh II and the Running II. I also like the Cushioned DLX but they are a heavier weight and it has to be VERY COLD out before I wear cushioned socks, if my feet get to hot I am done for!
Here is a little info on WRIGHT SOCKS from there site:
*WRIGHT SOCKS have a patented Double Layer® construction that helps with Blister protection! (A HUGE + for me!!) Double Layer® delivers the no blister promise through a three part system:
1. Moisture Management
2. Temperature Regulation
3. Friction Reduction
*Outer Layer is constructed of performance fibers specific to each activity.
*Inner Layer: Smooth, undyed, hydrphobic Dri-Wright™ wicks moisture away for cool, dry feet.
Are ya ready to WIN some WRIGHT SOCKS!!!??? 12 yep that's right TWELVE lucky Followers will win their choice of the Cool Mesh II, Running II or the Cushioned DLX!!
How to ENTER to WIN:
*MUST BE A FOLLOWER OF THIS BLOG!
*Visit WRIGHT SOCKS and tell me why and which pair you want to WIN!
*Like WRIGHT SOCKS on Facebook!
Two Winners will be selected Daily starting Monday, December 19 - Saturday, December 24! Each person can ONLY WIN ONCE!! So don't delay~Enter today!!
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Oh Why Do I........
Oh why did I NOT train during the 3weeks I had before this last half... it wasn't pretty and a full report to come.
Oh why have I turned into a last minute Christmas shopper this year...I have never been this far behind EVER!
Oh why haven't I rolled out the giveaways I have like I planned on....where does time go? Stay tuned for some great giveaways and don't forget to enter my IFitness giveaway!!
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Oh What a Week- Almost House Fire, Car Trouble and a Winner
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
2011 Holiday Gift Guide- Giveaway #2 IFitness Belt
The belt up for the giveaway is the Ultimate II Running Belt
I do not have this belt but I think it would be nice having toggles to hold your bib! I think one of these would and should be on any Runners wish list! Here is what features are listed for the Ultimate II Running Belt :
•Water resistant pouch, stretchy and sturdy, made of neoprene will keep your cell phone or iPod (any size) dry.
•4 elastic slots will hold your gels on your belt, for easy access.
•Additional side pocket perfect to hold an ipod, mp3 player, inhaler, house/car keys, sport beans, etc
•A special inner pocket will keep your ID/credit cards or room key securely.
•Comes with two reflector strips in the front and one in the back, for night time safety.
•Also featured are two toggles to hold your race number, under the pouch.
There are several color choices to choose from but if I was to WIN one of these fabulous Ultimate II Running Belts I would pick this awesome looking pink one :)
So how can you win?? Simply :)
*Be a Follower of this totally cool awesome Blog :)
*Like IFitness on Facebook and tell them I sent you
*Follow IFitness on Twitter and tweet you want to win @bobbie087 (I am still not the best with twitter or I would give you something to copy :)
*Visit IFitness and tell me Why you want to win and What color you would choose
*Post It on your blog
A Winner will be selected December 17
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Amazing
I haven't been feeling the greatest this week but I was able to talk myself into going to the gym on Monday and run 2 miles on the "dreadmill" and do some strength training. Tuesday was the same yucky feeling but I still went on to aerobics. I could tell during aerobics that I wasn't really all with it but I still did ok. Wednesday I should have went to yoga but I let my yucky feeling talk me out of it :'( It has been another rainy and gloomy week.
Today the sun was shining and it was about 45*, I WAS going for a run outside! The end of the work day approached and I asked myself "do you really want to go now?" It was a struggle in my mind for a couple of minutes. I went :) and feel so much better.
Something that always seems to be true: It is Amazing how much better you can feel overall mentally and physically if you just do a little exercise!
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
2011 Holiday Gift Guide- Some Discounts I have Found
I LOVE RAZZY ROO Headbands!! I am having problems getting my link on my sidebar to work but make sure to use code: PROMOBP10 to get a discount!! The Funky Runner Headbands are ONLY $5!! Perfect for Stocking Stuffers or just an inexpensive gift for your "runner" friend or ANY friend, they work well for ANY occasion!!
This was in my email, Shutterfly is offering an extra 20% off with code: U5AA-7GS1-FATN-ND7ME2 That code runs out today so don't delay:) They are also offering Free Shipping with orders $30+ I personally haven't ordered anything from Shutterfly but I enjoy giving photo books and photo gifts!
Sony is offering $10 off the W Series Walkman and Free Shipping I have one of the older versions and LOVE IT!! It is so NICE to not have to worry about cords and such, the only complaint I would have is when I get I get really really sweaty (lovely image right??) I have a hard time keeping them in my ears sometimes! With the $10 savings the 2GB W Series Walkman is only $49.99 ~ a GREAT Bargain!!
Gone for a Run is offering 20% off Beanie Hats! Another place I have never ordered from but they have LOTS of great looking gift ideas! Use code: RUNHAT11 through Friday, December 2! (Another email)
Lift Your Sole is offering Free Shipping until Friday, December 2 use code: stuffing. Lift Your Sole has an awesome assortment of gift ideas! Last year I purchased two necklaces for my running friends and they LOVED them! A new item I have my eyes on are the Barnwood Signs, be sure to check them out!! Lift Your Sole is also offering a Free Stocking Stuffer with any order $50+
Now for some Bloggy Fun!! Last night as I was catching up on blogs I was reading Erica H's Weekly Roundup (from I Run Because.....I Can). Two of the Blogger events I had already signed up for and some I hadn't seen yet, so I thought I would share them as well:) I didn't share all of Erica's awesome links so be sure to check out her BLOG as well!!
Courtney @ Third Time's a Charm Runner is hosting a Sock Swap. I think this is a really cute idea! She is accepting sign ups until Friday, December 2. Make sure you tell her you found it from me!!
Last year I participated in Zaneta's Christmas Card Swap, and she's doing it again! (Zaneta is from Runners Luck :) I really like the card swaps as well, gives you a chance to connect with bloggers you feel like you "know" and find new ones as well! You have until Friday, December 2 to sign up with this one as well! Kim @ (Just) Trying is for Little Girls is also hosting a card swap but sign up is over for it!
And last but NOT least, Jill @ Run with Jill is hosting the 2nd Annual Holiday Blogger Gift Exchange. I did not participate in this last year but am SUPER excited to be a part of it this year!! Sign ups for this one is over Monday, December 5.
ENJOY!!
**Don't forget to enter my Plain Clothes Runner Giveaway!!**
Sunday, November 27, 2011
2011 Holiday Gift Guide- 1st up Plain Clothes Runner (+Giveaway)
HOW to WIN your VERY OWN PLAIN CLOTHES RUNNER Cadet hat:
*MANDATORY- Must Be a Follower of THIS BLOG!!
* Visit Plain Clothes Runner and tell me what product you would like to try and why!
*Spread the word,-Blog It, Tweet It and/or Post It to Facebook
*Bonus Entry- Make a purchase from Mike at Plain Clothes Runner let him know in the comments of your order I sent ya, come back here and leave a comment- trust me I will verify!!
Sorry but US entries only! Winner will be selected on December 7
Friday, November 25, 2011
Black Friday
Surprisingly we ended up only being in WalMart for about 1 1/2 hour so we decided we would head on over to Old Navy. They opened at 12am we got there at 11:40pm and there was a line a mile long so we decided to wait in the car until time to stay warm. We walked up and I saw Kelli so as bad as it was I cheated and got in line with her:) They had some pretty good deals ALL for ME of course:) maybe not all! I waited for Dreamia for a while and the line kept growing and growing I finally decided to get in line and surely I would see her. The line wrapped around the ENTIRE store I lined up at the door! This line was SLOW I believe this line took well over an hour to go through and I NEVER saw Dreamia. Dumb me left my phone in the car and I told her that so she knew she couldn't call me. I checked out went to take my bags out get my phone and there she was out front waiting, freezing she had been out there for 45mins!! SORRY!!
Last stop at Kohls we got there about 2:15AM! I felt totally confused on time USUALLY I am doing this during daytime hours NOT in the middle of the night time sleeping hours! Kohls was pretty uneventful I took my phone this time so we separated at the door to go get what we wanted. This trip I planned on getting me stuff because its for work, good excuse right :) but true!! Once again an extremely LONG checkout line but it moved fairly quick I think we waited around 45mins.
Hit Starbucks one the way home. Drop Dreamia off at her vehicle. Type this post. I have officially been awake for 24 hours. Oh and I ran a 5k Thanksgiving morning (I am all confused on what day it is right now!)
Looking back I used a lot of punctuation!
Goodnight or Good Morning all! Do YOU have any Black Friday experiences to share? Do you do the Black Friday thing, Do you enjoy it??
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
My Thoughts on Tuesday
I have decided NOT to worry about my lack of being on a regular schedule for running and/or gym related stuff. There is only a month left in the year, all of my major races are over, I might as well just enjoy the rest of the year! I will run when I feel like it Go to the gym when I feel like it But also not let myself go to NOTHING! (I am going to aerobics tonight :)
I am working on some great giveaways and reviews to share and hopefully some discount codes to help with your holiday shopping! Be on the look out for 2011 Holiday Gift Ideas
Any one have awesome Turkey Day plans?
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Another Week Gone
Once again I am finding myself TRYING to get into some type of a routine, with NO LUCK! This week was a little bit better. My goal for October was to join the gym again with the hubz, that never happened. So November 1 I made myself do it:) It made it easier on me that the first was on a Tuesday and they have a step aerobic class that I wanted to start doing. The next week I never made it to the gym but I went back to the step aerobic this Tuesday! My legs was just a little tired from the half but not too bad! Wednesday Sheri and I ran 4mi and I felt like I ran 50! My legs were SO heavy I felt like I was pulling lead weights ~UGGHH! Not even a mile into it I told Sheri I wasn't sure I was going to make it, but I did and in a not so bad time of 36:36.
Me & Kelli |
Caden coming through the finish! He is so cute :) |
Saturday Sheri and I ran the Turkey Leg 5k in Burgin, Ky which is where I live, normally we do the Turkey Trot 5k in Liberty, Ky but since this was closer to home! The course was the same as the Run for the Pets except that is a 15k for us and this was just a 5k (yay!). It was a beautiful morning, the sun was shining and it was about 45*, however on the coming back part it was SUPER windy! Sheri and I stayed together almost the entire way :) the wind was so brutal coming back I paced with a man for a long way. I looked over at Sheri and said I hope he doesn't mind me pacing off of him, he commented on the wind and said he was going to pace off of us for a while now :) Sheri took a little of a lead on me, I got a snot (gross I know ~sorry!) attack had to take about 5 quick steps to clear my throat and pull out the mantra I have been using "Mind Over Matter". The finish was so close and I was NOT going to walk any! Only the top 3 male/females got awards.
Sheri came in 2nd and I came in 3rd with a time of 26:33! Hooray us!! The awards was little turkeys that say gobble gobble gobble ~ how cute!
What's your favorite "different" award you have received or seen?
Friday, November 18, 2011
Going the Distance - Guest Post by Jackie Clark
Going the Distance
By: Jackie Clark
There are a few things every serious runner knows about a marathon. One being that it is 26.3 miles long, another being that the marathon itself was created in honor of the run of the Greek soldier Pheidippides from the Battle of Marathon to Athens. Of course, aside from the technical aspects of just what a marathon is, every runner knows it takes intense concentration, determination, dedication and heart.
I learned all of the above earlier this year when I completed my first marathon for charity. In addition to determination, dedication and heart, the amount of emotion involved in running a marathon, especially one held to raise money for people suffering from cancer, like mesothelioma, is staggering. Running a charity marathon for cancer is not simply infused with the emotion of the physical demands of the run and the completion of it, but with the emotion of the spectators and fellow runners, many of who have had a family member suffering from the disease or the treatment thereof.
Anyone who has trained for either a marathon or half marathon can attest to the arduousness of the physical aspect of the race. Training is something that has to be done on a daily basis, and again, requires dedication and commitment. Most marathoners train on a roughly 40 to 50 mile a week basis, with a beginner needing to log at least 35 miles. And it is not merely the physicality of the race a potential marathoner should train for; it is also the mental aspect of the run that must also be part of the preparation equation. If these preparations are made and practiced consistently, it makes the completion of the race all the sweeter.
The amount of work put into readying yourself for a marathon can be daunting, but you find ways to help get you through the run. Music has always been my personal motivator to help me get through those long miles. I love blaring my music, which varies from classical rock to country and just singing with the beat of my heart and feet. It really helps me focus on every physical motion as well as clearing my mind of the typical days stresses. This is why I love to prepare for marathons.
Whether it is a water station worker, medic, or simply people in the crowd cheering you on, crossing that finish line bring on the kind of emotion that creates both tears and laughter. The fact that I knew that not only did I personally accomplish something, but also that I did so while potentially helping others was certainly one of the most satisfying aspects of crossing that finish line.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Three Things Thursday- A Few Quick Recaps
2. Black Cat Chase 5k October 28, 2011Frankfort, Ky- Once again one of my favorite races, just about all Frankfort races are favorites even though I don't think the course is the easiest. They usually have LOTS of people and fun things going on:) and they are usually at night so its a family event! I didn't talk up the hubz this time so I really thought he would beat me. My friend Kelli and her son Caden was also there, he is my little running buddy! I took off pretty fast at the beginning and couldn't see anyone, then around half way point I heard someone say "Hey Bobbie!" I looked down and it was Caden full of energy and ready to "run FAST!" Holy Cow I thought I already was fast :? I could only keep up with them for about a half mile or so. Turns out I did beat the hubz and I got a new PR..........24:59!!! HOORAY My first 24 something!!! Who cares that it is one second from 25 :)
Caden & Gerard (the Hubz) |
Jennifer, Megan, Me & Sheri The awards was Baseballs since the race was for the schools Baseball team! |
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Winner Wednesday!!
Send me your mailing info and I will get them right out to ya!!
Thank You to ALL that entered and for Following MY Journey!!
Monday, November 14, 2011
Maybe One More Chance??
We have a local half here in Lexington, Ky Run the Bluegrass
2012 will be the third year for it and it was my first half that I ran! They are also changing the course completely in 2012. I kind of feel obligated to run this half so my mom went ahead and signed me up as part of my Christmas! Right now in my mind this will be the race that I train for to get that 1:59:59 or maybe even better! So I guess I am like several other of you fabalous bloggers, I am looking into 2012 races. Do you know of any good half's in the Kentucky, Indiania, Ohio, Tennessee area??
Tomorrow a winner will be selected for my YANKZ GIVEAWAY if you haven't entered yet do so HERE before its too late!
Sunday, November 13, 2011
No 1:59:59 for Me :(
Me, Shalan and my mom made the 3 hour trip to Nashville, Tn for the I run for the Party Nashville 1/2 Marathon Friday afternoon. This is a fairly small event and there was only a packet pick up. (I Run for the Party seems to be a pretty neat series if you live in the Nashville area you should check it out!) It was a little difficult to find the packet pick up, the location wasn't marked very well and was easy to drive past.
We went back to the hotel and walked to the downtown area to find something to eat. The valet at the hotel told us about a great place but we couldn't find it. We walked all around turned a corner and saw the resturant he was talking about! I don't remember the exact name but it was something like Dems? OMG it was amazing!! The best spagetti, bread, cheesy bread and salad :) Will go back if ever in Nashville again!!
We get up Saturday morning and head out it was a few blocks away from our hotel but it was a nice walk. The weather was great, I really wasn't sure what to wear. The sun was shining it was about 44* and wind of 8mph. I choose not to wear a headband just my ear warmer, wasn't happy with that later! On the walk to the start I figured I better go ahead and turn on my Garmin, with all of the large buildings I figured it would have a hard time getting satellite there. IT WOULDN'T COME ON! Trying not to panic I just kept on hitting the start button over and over again, it would flash on and go right back off(flash the garmin words). UGGHH!! NO WAY!! WHAT!!
See the disappointment on my face |
right :( Overall I had a good time and am glad I did it next time I know to train for more major hills!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Three Things Thursday- The Next Half
Monday, November 7, 2011
Iron Horse Half Marathon
Me & Sheri A sleepy cold morning! |
The Iron Horse Half Marathon was Sunday, October 23 in Midway, Ky. I had never been to Midway before the Bourbon Chase (read about it HERE and HERE!!) My third leg ended right in Midway and one of the "chicks" in my van had ran the half last year. So as we drove into Midway I asked her if any of it was the route. We actually didn't go through any of it but she said it was pretty much the same, I had already heard that it was gently rolling so I really wanted to check it out first. Sometimes my version of "gently rolling" is different the the officials version of "gently rolling". It really didn't appear too bad and the main street area was just adorable, I will have to make some time to go back and check out some of the little shops!
Me and my bestest friend/running buddy Sheri (who also has a great recap Here) had signed up for this half a long time ago when early registration was to save some $$. So we have had PLENTY of time for training, did I take advantage of it......NO! Why?? Just a bunch of sorry excuses on my part! We got in a pretty good 10mi a few weeks before and we had the Bourbon Chase (11.5mi for me) two weeks before so there was a few long runs out there :) and I had at least two weekly runs of 4mi every week and a 5k every Saturday, not like I wasn't running at all just not distance! The night before the Iron Horse Half I told the hubz "I so really want to get a 1:59:59 but with the lack of training I think I am really hoping to just be able to finish!" 1:59:59 could I?? The weekend before I ran a trail 4k race which wasn't the greatest idea since I twisted my ankle! Nothing terrible just a little pain.
The weather has been cooler and it was almost perfect race morning. It was a cool but sunny 35ish* it was comfortable running and I passed off my gloves at the half way point. We ended up lining up pretty far back, its chipped timed and we aren't trying to win it just 1:59:59! But I think we was too far back, we did a LOT of weaving in and out and focusing on trying to find a path to get through a little exhausting! Around mile 2.5 there was a man in front of us that seemed like he had a good steady pace, I told Sheri we should stay with him a little while so she talked to him. His name was Kyle and he was hoping a under 2 as well but we didn't stay with him long. This course was really great! For a sight seeker runner like me ( I lOVE to look around and take in my surroundings :) this course is perfect! And it makes like a figure eight, in and out one way then in and out another which means you are always seeing people!
The worst hill at mile 6 |
The first half wasn't too awful with the "gently rolling". It was fairly hilly but you pretty much went down hill for every uphill. Until mile 5 - 6, right at the 6 mark it was a LONG uphill! That is when I started to notice my opposite ankle hurting :? I guess I was so worried about the twisted ankle that I favored the other too much! But I keep on slowly falling back from Sheri, at first I was getting upset with myself but had to put in a "pep" talk to me! I still had a decent pace and when I passed the half way point at 58mins I knew I had a couple of mins "banked". I think I was able to keep running until around mile 8 then I took a tiny walk break up the hill, the hills on the second half weren't as nice as the first half they pretty much went up with very little downhill. I could still see Sheri but she was way up ahead of me I was just glad I could still see her. That was about the time that my ankle really started throbbing, it began it hurt so bad all I could think was "I am getting me some ice for this thing as soon as I finish!" When I reached the 12mi/1mi to go I looked down at my watch for the first time to see how close I was, I was at 1:50 something and all I could think is less than 10mins to finish in 1:59:59 I MIGHT just be able to do it?!?! So I sucked it up tried to forget about the pain my ankle was giving and run the best I could the last mile.........
Be sure to read Sheri's Post Here to see her finish time! |