Three Things Thursday, Plus A Few

After a whirlwind weekend, it took my body most of the week to calm down and refocus on the things ahead. Not having anything to do on Tuesday and Wednesday evening was nice, which meant Brayden and I could stay at home and just simply chill. I took full advantage of it and I loved it!

In the mean time, I thought about writing a "three things Thursday" post, but all these random thoughts kept coming to my head and I couldn't narrow it down to just three, so bear with me as my brain operates on more than one thing at a time (usually on five things at once).

#1 Hello Fresh

I received a really great deal in the mail that I couldn't pass up, so I bit. We've never tried a service like this before but are excited to! Our first box arrived yesterday and I can't wait to dig in! Definitely stay tuned for a review coming soon!

#2 Running Shoes

Mine pooped out on me. I realized my knee was bothering me more than normal and when I counted out the mileage, I realized that yep...it was definitely time for new ones. I haven't yet received mine from our local running store from the race I won back in April (they are on back order), so I had to check the stock pile in the back of my closet. Lo and behold, there was a pair there that I received as a gift from Christmas, just waiting on me. Oddly enough, they are the same exact color as my previous pair, so I'm going to have to figure out a way to not get them confused. Oh well...at least I like the color!

#3 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse

So, every time I have Brayden in the car with me, I hear this sweet little voice from the back seat saying "Hot Dog! Hot Dog!" No, he's not hungry for a hot dog, he wants to hear the Hot Dog Song from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, and he knows it's on a CD in my car. (I mean really, how can I deny him?!) Lately, I've been heading to work (without Brayden in the car) and not paying attention to what's going on...then I realize that the Mickey Mouse CD is STILL playing in my car. Seriously. I made it halfway to work yesterday before I even realized it! (Insert face palm emoji here.) I can't be the only one this has happened to. Anyone else?

#4 Iced Coffee

Know the problem of having a PJ's Coffee very close to my Orangetheory gym?! I can stop in and have an iced coffee in the mornings after my workouts. Ok so that's not really a problem, actually. I really love their coffee and the flavors they offer are so good! It also hits the spot in the summer after a hard OT workout!

#5 4th of July Plans

I'm excited for the 4th of July, although having a holiday smack dab in the middle of a week kinda throws things off a bit. I'm planning on participating in our local 4th of July race and then seeing the fireworks that evening with a friend and our kids! It's shaping up to be a fun day!

Have you ever tried a mail delivery food service? What's your 4th of July plans?

Runner's Gift List

Can you believe it's already the holiday season (well, almost)?! With Thanksgiving upon us next week, it'll be December before we know it!

Last year, I had no clue what I wanted for Christmas. I was pregnant, my brain was mush (well, it felt like it anyway), and I had no clue what to get for everyone else let alone what to ask for myself! This year however, I've got it down! I always include a few running themed items on my gift list each year and this year is no exception!

I'm prepared this time around! Keep reading below for a sneak peak at my 2016 Christmas wish list!

Garmin Forerunner 230/235

 

Source

I've been in need of a new fitness tracker since..well, a long time. I even purchased one several years back but returned it because I didn't care for it.

This one is still a toss up, though. I'm debating between the 230 and the 235. As far as I can tell, the only difference is that one tracks your heart rate without an extra strap. I also am in love with the really cute wristband colors!

Anyone have one or the other and love it? I'd love to know your opinion!

BOB Single Handlebar Console

 

Source

 
On Black Friday last year, I made my first baby purchase...a BOB Jogging Stroller. When Brayden hit the 6 month mark last month, I was granted permission from the pediatrician to finally give it a spin (with Brayden inside, of course)!

One item that wasn't included with the stroller itself is a handlebar console to store keys/water bottles/and my phone. All necessary for carrying along on a run, of course! This is definitely a must for my Christmas list!

Mizuno Wave Inspire 13

Source

As a runner, I go through several pairs of shoes each year...especially once the fall training season kicks into high gear!

I've been a faithful Mizuno wearer for years and a pair of the latest Wave Inspires are always on my Christmas wish list.

Aren't these so pretty?! I just love the color of the Wave Inspire 13's!

Planner

No, I'm not joining the planning craze here...I am just in need of a planner that can help me better organize my life. The iPhone has worked for dates and appointments but I would love to have a place to better organize my schedule, especially when it comes to blogging and life extras.

The Erin Condren Life Planner is in consideration, but I haven't fully decided if that's "too much" of a planner for what I need. I've also dug through a few I found at Hobby Lobby that were super cute as well as a the Create 365 collection at Michaels.

Aaah...decisions decisions! We will see what Santa decides to bring! :)


(None of the above links are affiliate links, by the way...and I didn't receive any of the above items for free. They are truly all items that are included on my Christmas list this year!)

Any thoughts on any of the items I listed above? Anything you've tried that I should stay away from?

Today, I joined up with these ladies for a Tuesdays on the Run link up! Thanks for stopping by! :)

Three Things Thursday (Running Favorites Style)

#1: Running Warehouse

I know I’ve spoken of Running Warehouse in the past but I have to share again!

Several years back, I began one-upping my running shoes – if I opened a box, I purchased a back-up box to hold on to until it was needed.

In doing this, I discovered that each time a new model of a shoe was released, Running Warehouse put the old models on sale.

As the icing on the cake, they occasionally  hold a “Warehouse Sale” where most shoes are 50% off.

This weekend, I happened to check on my current running shoe (the Mizuno Wave Inspires) and I was in luck!

Several colors were available in my size of the Wave Inspire, so I narrowed it down to two choices.

I received BOTH pairs of shoes for less than I would have paid for one pair at regular price, AND I received free two day shipping through Running Warehouse (always included)!

If you haven’t checked out Running Warehouse yet, make sure you do! They carry a wide array of items such as clothing, accessories, nutrition, etc.

Their 50% off Warehouse Sale is still going on, too! Here’s a link to the Women’s sale and a link to the Men’s sale.

Stay up to date on Running Warehouse’s Sales and specials:

• Twitter
• Facebook
  

#2 Disney Pandora

I’ve been eyeing the Disney Pandora bracelets and charms for a while, specifically the Disney Parks Pandora bracelet. I wanted to begin a collection of Disney charms, but the bracelets flew off the shelves and online like hot cakes! 

For our recent Anniversary, my husband surprised me not only with the Disney Parks Pandora bracelet but also the runDisney charm!

Needless to say, I was in shock but so completely excited! I have worn this baby everywhere I’ve gone (except work)…hah!

Love the runDisney charm!!

You can find Pandora charms and bracelets like the ones mentioned above throughout various Disney Parks, resorts, and Downtown Disney.

They are also available for purchase through the Disney Store online. You can find them here.

 

#3 Runners Feat

What’s that extra charm on my Pandora bracelet, you might ask? Well, in January at the Louisiana Half Marathon Expo, I came across a booth called Runners Feat. He specializes in all things races and jewelry!

After browsing the charms that were out for display, I began asking about other races and available charms. Prepared to go home and shop online, I tentatively asked about Disney events. Before I could even blink, a 39.3 Miles of Magic charm was placed in the palm of my hand.

Whoa.

Y’all. I know this man thought I was crazy. I wish my sister-in-law would have caught my reaction on camera because I know it was priceless.

The charm also includes a little castle which you can see in the photo below.

At the time I didn’t even own a Disney Pandora bracelet, but I purchased this charm knowing I eventually would!

Here’s a view of all sides of the same charm:

Check out his online store! He seriously carries charms for  a ton of races. If you don’t seem something there, email him and ask!

Also, you can find them on FB at Runners Feat.

What’s the best Expo find you’ve ever come across? Do you purchase running shoes online?

Please note: None of the above mentioned favorites were sponsored. I simply love all of these items and want to share the love with you, hoping you might find something you love, too!

Christmas Fitness Favorites Take 2

Last year, I shared several of the fitness/running specific gifts I received for Christmas. Well, Santa was good to me yet again….and I received several items that will assist with training for my upcoming half marathons (and might help some of you), so I decided to share with all of you! Here they are….

KT Tape


I’m relatively new to the KT Tape world, but I’m not new to IT Band injury. After wearing a neoprene knee sleeve for (what felt like) ever, I finally bit the bullet and tested out a roll of KT Tape this past fall. I can honestly say it makes a huge difference - I love the support the KT Tape gives to my knee. I also love that their website has a ton of at-home-self application videos to watch which makes it easier on the beginner. The fun colors are really nice, too! I’ve never tried the PRO tape (blue roll on the top), but I’m interested to do so!  Side note: I sure hope they bring back the Red polka dot Minnie KT Tape at the Princess Half Marathon Expo! I missed out on them at the Wine & Dine Expo because they sold out…whomp whomp. 

Mizuno Wave Inspire


Ever since the Mezamashii project, I’ve been hooked. I love Mizuno’s and the Wave Inspire’s are my go-to shoe! You know when you find “the shoe”, the one that just clicks and everything feels right – you just know it was meant to be? That’s these shoes for me. I love the colors, too!

Lock Laces & GU

Somehow, Santa knew ALL my favorite GU flavors (ok, maybe it wasn’t Santa, but my sister in law is just as nice)! I’m a fan of GU with caffeine, so these are perfect! Lock Laces are a new thing for me – I’ve had a friend who used them but I’ve never owned a pair myself. I’m definitely interested to try them out! If you aren’t familiar, Lock Laces are shoe laces that basically always stay tied! Sounds pretty cool to me! 

New Balance

Soooo, I kinda received these shoes at the Wine & Dine Expo, then they got wrapped and placed under the tree as soon as we arrived home…. :D I love these runDisney inspired New Balance shoes! They are only available at the runDisney race expos and I hear that New Balance is bringing this Cinderella style/pattern back for 2015! Also, stay tuned to New Balance’s website/social media for updates on the new additions to their current models!

Fitbit Aria


After receiving the Fitbit back in November as a gift, I knew right away that I also wanted the Aria (scale) to go along with it! This scale not only tells your weight and body fat percentage, it also recognizes up to 8 people in your household. My husband received a Fitbit One for Christmas, so he’s also synced to the Aria and it knows the difference between the two of us! Pretty neat, huh? I had a little bit of trouble setting it up, but once I got going, it was fine and all works well now! My poor dad – he thought I wrote down the Fitbit “Ana” and he couldn’t figure out what in the world I was talking about… lol Whoops!

Raw Threads



Santa hooked me up with Raw Threads this year! I absolutely LOVE these shirts and actually, I gave them as gifts to several (at least three different) friends for Christmas! (The shirts given as gifts are not pictured here.) Princess in Training, Snow, Minnie Bow, and Castle to Castle…I definitely can’t choose a favorite, I love them all! These shirts are made of a soft bamboo and organic cotton which fit incredibly well and are oh so comfortable! I’ve also worn these to run in and they are great! I love the Raw Threads “Disney”/race themed shirts and am so happy to add these to my collection! If you’re interested, check them out – their huge sale ends on 12/31/14!

As you can see, I now have several items to add to my running collection and I can’t wait to test them all out!

Did you receive any fitness related items for Christmas this year? Please share, I want to hear all about them!! :)

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Congratulations to Mindy, winner of the FitMas Week 4 giveaway (the Flip Belt)! Please send your info to kren2700@gmail.com and I’ll get it to them asap! :)

Mizuno Wave Kazan’s–Blaze New Trails

Through Mizuno and Fit Fluential, I was given the opportunity to test the brand spankin’ new Wave Kazan trail shoes. Even though these shoes were sent to me free of charge, all opinions stated below are my own. :)

Upon immediate inspection, I fell in love with the colors…these shoes are bright!



To date, I’ve taken these shoes out on two different types of runs – the first was my running group’s bridge run and boot camp and the second was a trail run in the woods near my house.



The Mizuno Wave Kazan’s are equipped with concave Wave Technology which cradles the heel and helps promote a smooth transition through your running form.

The Wave Kazan’s specifically are Mizuno’s most versatile, all-terrain shoe.



I immediately noticed a difference with these shoes when I first put them on. The soles of these shoes contain an x-groove which helps adapt to uneven surfaces. Guys, I LOVED running on through the trail with these shoes. Comfortable & lightweight (weighing in at 8 oz for women and 9.5 oz for men) – I felt as if I was running on a soft bed of pillows (it was actually pine needles but who’s asking anyway?).



Did you know that Mizuno is making a commitment to the trail? They’ve taken their ever popular Wave Ascend’s and added its technology to their Wave Kazans and Wave Hyate’s (not pictured here).




I truly felt as if I was given the best of both worlds – a lightweight trail running shoe which also offered protection and stability! I also had a great run at that!



For me, running the trails was a great way to beat the summer heat – the woods were nice, shaded, and much cooler than the road.

In the creation of these shoes, Mizuno worked with an Olympian for his thoughts and opinions!

As a runner who loves Mizuno (it’s the only shoe I run in), I was thrilled for this opportunity. Thanks, Mizuno and Fit Fluential!

Where are you going to Blaze New Trails this year? Do you enjoy running trails?

Fitness Friday–6/27

It’s almost July! This year seems to be going by so fast…we’re halfway to Christmas, too! Eek!

Saturday – 8 mile run with friends
Sunday – Rest Day
Monday –  4 mile run 
Tuesday – 5K run – planning for Saturday’s 5K 
Wednesday – Rest Day 
Thursday – Bridge run/Boot camp
Friday – Rest day – 5K tomorrow!!

Here’s a glimpse of my week:

From Monday’s run – I surprised myself despite the humidity! It felt great to run strong.  I’m pretty sure the bridge workouts have something to do with that! Yay! It’s nice to see progress!

Tuesday, I ran Saturday’s 5K course for planning purposes and surprised myself once again! You can read all about my “pace car” here! Hah!

Last night, I took my all new Mizuno Wave Kazan’s out for a bridge run and boot camp. The recent rains have created a ton of mud around here, so boot camp was rather messy. I was filthy by the time I left, but I definitely got a kick-butt workout! My shoes are dirty now, too…but isn’t that what trail shoes are meant for? :0) 

Last Sunday, I attempted to make Paleo banana pancakes and they were a DISASTER. I’m just not meant for the pancake world, I’ve never had luck with them…like ever.  In the end, it was rather funny – I really should have taken a picture of my disaster.  Give me a waffle machine and I can make a mean waffle. What’s so difficult about pancakes?!

This weekend, I’m running a 5K and having breakfast with my parents after (yes, I talked them into it…I might have bribed my mom with breakfast…whoops). One of my best friends and I are also planning to hang out, so lots of fun will be in store! 

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!! What’s your plans? Anyone racing/running? Doing anything exciting?

Fitness Friday: Christmas Favorites

For Christmas this year, I was pleasantly surprised with several running related items. Santa was a rock star this year (as usual) and completely outdid himself. Here’s a few of my favorites:

Raw Threads Princess in Training Hoodie

 
Front/Back

I was first introduced to Raw Threads at the 2013 Disney World Marathon Weekend Expo when the runDisney booth ran out of Goofy Merchandise. Raw Threads had 39.3 shirts available, so I bought one and I fell in love. I absolutely love the material of their clothing. It’s very lightweight and incredibly soft. Raw Threads also offers a wide variety of tops/clothing for your favorite runDisney race. Looking to dress as a Princess for Princess Weekend? Check out their Princess Tops. Want to dress as your favorite Villain for your next runDisney race? Check out their selection of Villain collection!  The variety and selection is (almost) endless. I cannot say enough good things about this company.

I’m running the Glass Slipper Challenge during Princess Weekend in Disney World, so I’m warning you now, you will see this shirt a LOT over the next few months! :0)



I was SO excited to see this Raw Threads Princess hoodie in the box I unwrapped!  Insert: awkward looking surprise face.

Rumble Roller

 

Do not let this “foam roller” fool you – it IS every bit as painful as it looks. Why did I ask for a Rumble Roller Christmas? Well, I saw this bad boy in Dick’s Sporting Goods one day and decided to give it a whirl. I had two requirements I was looking for in a foam roller – I wanted one that wouldn’t break down as quickly as my other foam rollers had in the past and it needed to give me a bit of a deeper massage than my other rollers. Hopefully this one will do the trick!

Mizuno Wave Inspire 9’s
 


The final gift on my fitness favorites list is my brand new Mizuno Wave Inspire 9’s. I began running in Mizuno’s when the Mezamashii Project was introduced. While waiting for the brand new Wave Paradox, being introduced in January (which is replacing my old shoe, the Wave Nirvana), I’m wearing Wave Inspire’s in the interim. Got it? That’s a lot of Wave’s! :0)



This color is absolutely my favorite!

After opening a few gifts for themselves, my dogs thought EVERY gift was for them! It was really funny!



I actually received 2 pair of Wave Inspires – one from my parents and the other from Jason. I kind of already started running in my pair from Jason a few weeks ago…



….so what I received was an empty box! Yeah, whoops.

I’m very excited to continue running in these and can’t wait for the brand new Mizuno Wave Paradox (although I’m all set for a little while)!

Did you receive any fitness related items for Christmas? Please share! I want to hear all about your new goodies!

Disclaimer: All of these items were given to me as gifts from family which were purchased by my family. None of these items were received as compensation or for a review. All opinions are my own.

Fitness Friday 9/20

Last week, my husband uttered words I never thought I would hear him say. 

Jason: “Hey! Do you want to go for a run?”
Me: “Me? As in…you and I? Together??”
Jason: “Yeah something like that!”

After I picked my jaw off the floor in astonishment, I hurried to put on my running shoes before he changed his mind. We completed 8.5 miles of running/walking in his first week of training and he seemed to enjoy it!

On Monday, he was fitted for “real” running shoes, and…..here we are!

Currently training for: Woman’s Half Marathon - December 8, Louisiana
Rock N Roll New Orleans Half Marathon – February 2, 2013, Louisiana

Saturday – 12 mile run with the running group
Sunday – Rest Day 
Monday – Run/Walk with Jason – 3 miles 
Tuesday – Rest Day
Wednesday – Cross Train with “boot camp” style workout
Thursday – 4 mile run
Friday – Household plans/projects – this time, it’s our garage that’s going to get it!

Yesterday, I ran 4 miles in the drizzling rain, which was a nice distraction from the warm afternoon temperatures. I pushed myself (which I haven’t done in a while) and really felt it in the end. My goal was to stay around an 8:45 pace. Could I have kept going after 4 miles? No. I gave those four miles all I had and I was worn out by the time I finished. I even went to sleep earlier than usual on Thursday night!

The ran definitely kept me cool! I can’t wait for Fall weather to make its way to Louisiana!

I stopped my watch when I stopped for water at mile 2. Apparently my Garmin thought it was running a cool down with Kara Goucher because it paused at a “6:11” pace. Really? I’ve never run anything remotely close to that pace in my life! Well, maybe in my dreams…but definitely not in reality!

Speaking of fast, I had to purchase a new pair of shoes this week. Mizuno quit making Wave Nirvana’s earlier this year and I stocked up on discounted shoes when I found out. Sadly, my last pair of Nirvana’s is on its last leg. After some research, I discovered that Mizuno is coming out with somewhat of a replacement for the Nirvana in January. In the meantime, I’ve been fitted for the Wave Inspire. Isn’t it pretty?
Bright + Hot Pink + Running Shoes = Fast. Am I wrong? Well, maybe a tad delusional.

How was your week? Any exciting adventures to share? I love a good adventure! :0)