BUSY RUNNING MAMA

Holy Italian Sweetness.......

2011-02-27T22:16:00.000-05:00

The February 2011 Daring Bakers’ challenge was hosted by Mallory from A Sofa in the Kitchen. She chose to challenge everyone to make Panna Cotta from a Giada De Laurentiis recipe and Nestle Florentine Cookies.

PANNA COTTA

Giada's Vanilla Panna Cotta

Ingredients:

1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
1 tablespoon (one packet) (15 ml) (7 gm) (¼ oz) unflavored powdered gelatin
3 cups (720 ml) whipping cream (30+% butterfat)
1/3 cup (80 ml) honey
1 tablespoon (15 ml) (15 gm) (½ oz) granulated sugar
pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Pour the milk into a bowl or pot and sprinkle gelatin evenly and thinly over the milk (make sure the bowl/pot is cold by placing the bowl/pot in the refrigerator for a few minutes before you start making the Panna Cotta). Let stand for 5 minutes to soften the gelatin.

2. Pour the milk into the saucepan/pot and place over medium heat on the stove. Heat this mixture until it is hot, but not boiling, about five minutes. (I whisk it a few times at this stage).

3. Next, add the cream, honey, sugar, and pinch of salt. Making sure the mixture doesn't boil, continue to heat and stir occasionally until the sugar and honey have dissolved 5-7 minutes.

4. Remove from heat, allow it to sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Then pour into the glass or ramekin.

5. Refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight. Add garnishes and serve.

FLORENTINE COOKIES

Nestle Florentine Cookies: Recipe from the cookbook “Nestle Classic Recipes”, and their website.

Ingredients:

2/3 cup (160 ml) (150 gm) (5.3 oz) unsalted butter 2 cups (480 ml) (160 gm) (5 2/3 oz) quick oats
1 cup (240 ml) (230 gm) (8 oz) granulated sugar
2/3 cup (160 ml) (95 gm) (3⅓ oz) plain (all purpose) flour
1/4 cup (60 ml) dark corn syrup
1/4 cup (60 ml) whole milk
1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract
pinch of salt
1½ cups (360 ml) (250 gm) (9 oz) dark or milk chocolate

Directions:

Preheat oven to moderately hot 375°F (190°C) (gas mark 5). Prepare your baking sheet with silpat or parchment paper.

1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan, then remove from the heat.

2. To the melted butter add oats, sugar, flour, corn syrup, milk, vanilla, and salt. Mix well. Drop a tablespoon full, three inches (75 mm) apart, onto your prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly with the back of yourtablespoon, or use a spatula.

3. Bake in preheated oven for 6-8 minutes, until cookies are golden brown. Cool completely on the baking sheets.

4. While the cookies are cooling melt your chocolate until smooth either in the microwave (1 1/2 minutes), or stovetop (in a double boiler, or a bowl that fits atop a saucepan filled with a bit of water, being sure the water doesn't touch the bottom of the bowl).

5. Peel the cookies from the silpat or parchment and place face down on a wire rack set over a sheet of wax/parchment paper (to keep counters clean).

6. Spread a tablespoon of chocolate on the bottom/flat side of your cookie, sandwiching another (flat end) cookie atop the chocolate.

This recipe will make about 2 1/2 - 3 dozen sandwiched Florentine cookies. You can also choose not to sandwich yours, in which case, drizzle the tops with chocolate (over your wax paper).

AFTER EATING THE PANNA COTTA, I COULDN'T EVEN TRY THE COOKIES.EVERYTHING WAS SUPER SWEET....AND AFTER RUNNING 4.5 MILES TODAY...1 DESSERT WAS ENOUGH!

BOTH OF THESE RECIPES WERE EASY TO FOLLOW AND FAIRLY QUICK!

Happy Running,
TOBI

Don't remember how.....

2011-01-26T12:45:00.000-05:00

I just pulled up my Google Reader for the first time in a month......"it said 1000+ posts" Ummmmm, I guess it stops counting after 1000. I marked all as read and closed the window. I really want to know what is going on in all of your lives, but I don't have time, energy, motivation.......

Thought I should throw a post out there, almost didn't remember how......... to let you know I am still alive, but as usual, life is in full force and no time for blogging ( breathing or going to the bathroom for that matter).

I have run once in a month and I am coming to the realization that I don't necessarily love running anymore. It is hard now, after 2 surgeries,it makes me hurt, and I just can't devote the kind of time that I would like to it. I am still trying, and may eventually get back to it, but for now.....???? So if you are following me for the sole purpous of my blog being a "running" blog, I will not be offended if you "un" follow me........you will be missed, but I understand.......

Since my last post,

I got braces
Took my 2nd EA exam and I have the 3rd and final on Saturday so I have been studing like crazy!
Tax season started.......which means my next day off is April 23rd....... hence why there have been no posts!

That's all really!

Don't expect too many posts in the next 3 months and when I get back on April 23rd from tax hell....I will be changing things around here a bit.....probably less running and more of other things.....A different focus......

I'm not even sure yet....... Life's been handing me some lemons lately and I am trying to find a good lemonade recipe, but so far I still have extra lemons.........

The one thing I am sure of is my husband, who loves me more than life itself ( even when I am mean :0) and grumpy) and my beautiful boys ( they would hate to hear me call them beautiful)............ other than that, I am totally winging it and hoping for the best!

Chat at ya later!!!

Happy Running,

3 weeks....

2010-12-18T19:53:00.000-05:00

It's been three weeks since my last post and 3 weeks since my last run and 3 weeks since I've had a chance to breathe. I really need to get back into the swing of things, but no matter how hard I try, I always have a million things to do.....

So here is what's been going on:

1) One of my best friend's father, took his own life 2 weeks ago. I can not explain the feeling you get when you see your friends name on your cell phone ( she lives 8 hours away), you pick it up, and all you here is hysterical crying and no words......awful, trying to find out where she was and if she was oaky, such a scary feeling......I spent the entire week with her and her family, helping in any way that I could.......they have a such a close knit family and her parents were about to celebrate 40 wonderful years of marriage.....so extremely painful and sad, my heart is hurting for her so much.......

2) The same week, I was scheduled to take part 2 of 3 tests to get my EA ( Enrolled Agent) designation. These tests are 4 hours each and a really big deal! I was sooooooo stressed out trying to balance everything. But, the good news is, I passed!! yay! 1 more to go!

3) Another stressful event that has been going on is that I discovered a lump in my neck about 8 weeks ago. I kept thinking it would go away and that it was just a swollen lymph node. So far, it is still there. I went in for blood work and a Cat scan with contrast, and both came back normal. Although that is great news, I am still concerned. I will be making an appointment with an ENT for a second opinion, even though my General practitioner says that there is nothing to worry about......

4) I have been shopping online, like crazy!! I have been shopping so much that when I received a big Target box on my doorstep yesterday, I had to stop and try to remember what I had ordered from Target. Well, I couldn't think of anything......hmmm, have I really been shopping so much that I can't remember what I bought........go ahead, judge, crazier things have happened around here............but, I opened the package, and it was a gift! Yay! I love surprises!! It is a cool popcorn popper ( which my hubby is in love with), that you can add butter and hot sauce and spices, etc........, from my BIL and SIL!! Suck a great surprise and I am happy that all the shopping hasn't made me crazy!!

5) Today, I hosted my first House Party. It was sponsored by Athenos Greek Yogurt..........
I made several fruit dips and a smoothie and then we all went on a walk and had some fun doing some Dance exercise on Exercise on Demand......here are some pics!

Lots of cool giveaways, coupons and girl time, but BTW, I HATE Greek yogurt!!

Everyone is always ranting and raving about Greek yogurt, but I just don't like it. I DO like that it is thicker and creamier than traditional yogurt but it has a bitterness that I just really don't like! Oh well!!!

Happy Running,

November Daring Bakers' Challenege

2010-11-27T08:00:00.002-05:00

CROSTATA

The 2010 November Daring Bakers’ challenge was hosted by Simona of briciole. She chose to challenge Daring Bakers’ to make pasta frolla for a crostata. She used her own experience as a source, as well as information from Pellegrino Artusi’s Science in the Kitchen and the Art of Eating Well.

This is my very first bakers' challenge. I absolutely love to cook and to bake. I heard about The Daring Kitchen blog and challenges and headed over to sign up!

I learned a few things......I make a mess in the kitchen when making dough.......and......I am a terrible food photographer...................so bear with me and watch me learn and grow through this monthly baking process.....

I used the pasta frolla Version 1 recipe below:

Equipment required:

bowls, as needed
fork
knife
bench (or pastry) scraper
rolling pin
pastry brush
9 or 9.5-inch [23-24 cm] fluted round tart pan with removable bottom, (I didn't have this so I improvised....note to self: add this to Christmas List) about 1 inch [2.5 cm] high. (Note: If you don't have a tart pan with a removable bottom, don’t worry! You can make crostata using a 9-inch cake pan or even a 9-inch pie plate. See the Additional Information section for information on using different pans.
a food processor is useful, but not required

Version 1 of pasta frolla

Ingredients:
1/2 c. minus 1 tablespoon [105 ml, 100 g, 3 ½ oz] superfine sugar (see Note 1) or a scant 3/4 cup [180ml, 90g, 3 oz] of powdered sugar

1 and 3/4 cup [420 ml, 235 g, 8 1/4 oz.] unbleached all-purpose flour

a pinch of salt

1 stick [8 tablespoons / 4 oz. / 115 g] cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

grated zest of half a lemon (you could also use vanilla sugar as an option, see Note 2)

1 large egg and 1 large egg yolk, lightly beaten in a small bowl

Note 1: Superfine sugar is often also referred to as ultrafine, baker’s sugar or caster sugar. It’s available in most supermarkets. If you cannot find “superfine” sugar, you can make your own by putting some regular granulated sugar in a food processor or blender and letting it run until the sugar is finely ground.

Note 2: There are different ways of making vanilla sugar. I keep vanilla beans in a jar half-filled with sugar until I need to use them, for example, to make vanilla ice cream. After I remove the split bean from the custard that will go into the ice cream maker, I rinse it, dry it and put it back in the jar with sugar.

Making pasta frolla by hand: (I did this)

Step 1: Whisk together sugar, flour and salt in a bowl.

Step 2: Rub or cut the butter into the flour until the mixture has the consistency of coarse crumbs. You can do this in the bowl or on your work surface, using your fingertips or an implement of choice.

( I grated the butter and stuck it in the freezer...it makes it much easier to cut in)

Step 3: Make a well in the center of the mounded flour and butter mixture and pour the beaten eggs into it (reserve about a teaspoon of the egg mixture for glazing purposes later on – place in the refrigerator, covered, until ready to use).

Add the lemon zest to your flour/butter/egg mixture.

Use a fork to incorporate the liquid into the solid ingredients, and then use your fingertips.

Step 4: Knead lightly just until the dough comes together into a ball.

Shape the dough into a flat disk and wrap in plastic wrap. Place the dough in the refrigerator and chill for at least two hours. You can refrigerate the dough overnight.

Making pasta frolla with a food processor:

Put sugar, flour, salt, and lemon zest in the food processor and pulse a few times to mix.

Add butter and pulse a few times, until the mixture has the consistency of coarse meal.

Empty food processor's bowl onto your work surface

See step 3 above and continue as explained in the following steps (minus the lemon zest, which you have already added).

While the dough was in the fridge for 2 hours..................................I made this.

This Cranberry jelly was a recipe I found over at the Pioneer Woman Blog...Please tell me you've been there, she is amazing!! An amazing cook and photographer and mother and wife!!!!

So first, I should learn to read the title of the recipe.....like this one says "sauce" , not preserves or jelly......you'll see why this is important later....but the recipe....amazing....and I put the leftovers in popsicle makers in the freezer for fresh cranberry pops later!!!!

Recipe: Cranberry-Pomegranate Sauce

Prep Time: 2 Minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 12

Ingredients

1 bag (about 12 To 16 Oz) Fresh Cranberries

16 ounces, fluid Pomegranate Juice

¾ cups Sugar, More Or Less To Taste

Preparation Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan and cook over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Mixture will thicken as it cooks, and will thicken more as it cools.

Cool in a jar or bowl in the fridge. Serve with Thanksgiving turkey, ........or not.

After sauce was made and in the fridge....................It was back to the pasta frolla.........

Assembling and baking the crostata di marmellata: ( this is what they call the Crostata when you put preserves or jelly in it )

1) Heat the oven to 375ºF [190ºC/gas mark 5].

2) Take the pasta frolla out of the fridge, unwrap it and cut away ¼ of the dough. Reserve this dough to make the lattice top of the crostata. Refrigerate this dough while you work on the tart base.

3) To help roll the crostata dough, keep the dough on top of the plastic wrap that you had it wrapped in. This can help rolling the dough and can also help when transferring the dough to your pan. You can also use parchment paper for this. However, you can also roll the dough directly on a work surface if you prefer.
.....this did not work for me - the dough totally stuck to the plastic and I had to start all over!!...............

4) Lightly dust the top of the dough and your work surface (if you’re rolling directly on a work surface) with flour. Keep some flour handy to dust the dough as you go along.

5) If the dough is very firm, start by pressing the dough with the rolling pin from the middle to each end, moving the rolling pin by a pin's width each time; turn the dough 180 degrees and repeat; when it softens, start rolling.

6) Roll the dough into a circle about 1/8th inch (3 mm) thick.

7) If you used the plastic wrap or parchment paper as rolling surface, flip dough over the pan, centering it, and delicately press it all around so the corners are well covered. Peel away the plastic wrap.

8) Trim the excess dough hanging over the edges of the pan. Press the remaining dough around the border into the sides of the pan making sure the border is an even thickness all the way around.

9) Prick the bottom of the dough with a fork in several places.

Take out of the fridge the reserved pasta frolla you had cut away earlier. Roll it with your pin and cut into strips or use cookie cutters to make small shapes (this is not traditional, but it looks cute); or roll with your hands into ropes.

Spread the jam or fruit preserves evenly over the bottom of the crostata.

....This is where my "sauce" was too runny........Crisis averted, I added Low Sugar Strawberry preserves into the sauce and filled the Crostata!!................It's like a triple berry delight......right??? Ugghhhhh...........

Use the prepared strips or rolls of dough to make a lattice over the surface, or decorate with the cut shapes. (Note: You can use dough scraps to make cookies: see the Additional Information section for some pointers)

Brush the border and strips of dough with the reserved beaten eggs. You can add a drop or two of water to the beaten eggs if you don’t have enough liquid.

Put the tart in the oven and bake for 25 minutes.

After 25 minutes, check the tart and continue baking until the tart is of a nice golden hue. (Note: Every oven is different. In my oven it took 34 minutes to bake the tart until golden.)

When done, remove the tart from the oven and let cool. If you have used a tart pan with a removable bottom, then release the tart base from the fluted tart ring. Make sure the tart is completely cool before slicing and serving.

Not the most beautiful thing in the world, and because I didn't have a tart pan with a removable bottom and the filling was a bit "saucy", I couldn't slide it out of the pie pan.......So I stuck it in the fridge, the filling firmed up, and I served it chilled...............It was actually pretty yummy!!

Lessons Learned:

1) Bakers "challenge" is named that for a reason........It was definitely a challenge
2) The word "Sauce" most likely means it can be poured...If it can be poured, It will not substitute for a preserve or jelly....lesson learned.
3) Food photography is NOT easy.....all of you foodie bloggers out there....my hat goes off to you....you make it look easy....and it isn't....I will keep working and practicing....If you see random food photos on my blog..I apologize ahead of time!

Happy Running,

Wordless Wednesday

2010-11-24T08:16:00.000-05:00

Here is what I have been doing lately.........................

Little League Super Bowl

Murder Mystery Party

Selling Merchandise at a Local Concert

Hangin with Matt Hires

Tyrone Wells Concert

Me and Thing 1, Hangin with the drummer for Tyrone Wells, Mark Chipello

Hubby, Tyrone Wells, Me, and Thing 1

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO EVERYONE!!

Happy Running,

Sneek Peek.....Christmas Card Photos....

2010-11-23T12:01:00.000-05:00

A very dear friend and past neighbor took our family photos a few weeks back . We will be using all 5 on a very beautiful Christmas card, but I thought I'd give you a sneek peek of the pics.

Tiffani Jones is an amazing photographer, so if you live in the Central Florida area and need pictures taken.....contact her via the link. She will even travel, if you pay her travel costs!

I ordered these cards from Tiny Prints........

Front

Inside

Do you love?????

No running at all last week and not so far this week either - trying to get the house decorated and everyone packed up for a Thanksgiving trip to Colorado!!

I will hopefully post a Wordless Wednesday post tomorrow - full of pictures from the past several weeks, so you can see what I've been up to.........

And Saturday......My first The Daring Kitchen Bakers Challenge Post.........

Happy Running,

10 K PR and some major FAILS!!!

2010-11-15T13:00:00.000-05:00

Forgive me bloggers for I have sinned, It has been exactly 12 whole days since my last post......uggghhhh sorry...I have had about 10 days of epic fails that ended with 2 days of goodness!!

EPIC FAILS:

Show up for Thing 1 to Run the Red Ribbon Run at 6:45 AM. It is dark and 46 degrees and we sit in metal stands, freezing.....Doesn't start till 8:00......5th grade boys don't run till 11:30....Thing 1 has to be at his Football Super Bowl at 12:00....something in this math problem is not adding up....head back home after 2 hours of freezing and getting up at 6:00AM and no running has been done.....lovely...fail!
Head over to said Super Bowl. We are the best team in the league and undefeated to the tune of 12-0 at this point. We have homemade signs, noise makers, etc......Our team played horribly...almost like watching a completely different team...no pep in the step, no will or want, no drive....so frustrating....we lost, needless to say. We are extremely proud of the team , they had a great season and were so close......they all made it to the All Stars, so one more week of football this week and then it's over! Fail!
Scheduled some pictures to be taken of Thing 1 in his football uniform for last Sunday.....Thing 1 wakes up with the worst case of chapped lips EVER, lip are cracking and bleeding and red and puffy......pictures canceled.....Fail!
Monday, I pick up my CSA veggies and I have more green stuff than I can deal with. I am the main veggie eater in the house and I am on Blood Thinners still.....I have to watch my dark green veggie intake......I need freezable recipes for all things green.....QUICK!!!!FAIL!
I volunteer to take Thing 2 to reconciliation/1st Communion class Wednesday because I have some studying of my own to do. Normally on Wednesdays, the parents sit in the vestibule and chat or do whatever, while the kids are in class. OF COURSE, NOT WHEN I GO.......I instead, got to sit and listen to Sister Angelica for over an hour, tell me how important it is to let my boys know that going into Priesthood or becoming a Monk is a viable option for their lives....UM, okay, don't judge, or do, whatever, but I want daughter -in -laws, and grand babies, etc. I know that is selfish, and I truly appreciate all the Priests who give up all of that to devote their lives to the Church, but I am thinking I won't encourage that for my children unless they are dead set on it.....ugghhhh...okay go ahead an judge...I can handle it.....studying=fail!
It has been sunny and in the low 70"s here in Central FL and I had decided last week, that using my lunch hour to run, would be a great idea....It was, except I was having major hip/knee issues and felt like I was carrying around two bricks ( my feet ) while running. Did not run more than 2 miles at a time, all week! I had a 10K to run on Sunday and I became VERY discouraged.......FAIL!

So, after all of that................I was bummed and down in the dumps and doubting my ability to run 6.2 miles in the Sunday 10K!!!!

What happened you ask?????

I bought a foam roller when I went to get my race packet on Saturday ....and I rolled, and rolled ( it hurt a lot). Thing 1 asked why I did it, if it hurt.....It's a good hurt.....He did not understand that...Haha!
I got up early on Sunday , still not knowing if knee/hip would cooperate, and I went to the 10K....
I met up with my favorite Turtle Runner Robin.......
I RAN THE WHOLE THING!!!! PR BABY!!
I guess I should say that any time or pace would have been a PR, because it was my first official 10K!! Yay Me!

Results:
Chip Time: 1:03:21
Pace: 10:11.7
Overall Place 674/1093
Gender Place 293/612
Age div Place: 59

Not too shabby!!! Race photos here ( I'm pretty proud of my form at the end) HERE

Here we are: My Neighbor Shannon, My friend Michelle, Robin, and Me!!

We also went to a Murder Mystery Party and had tons of fun...pictures in another post ( promise!)

Happy Running,
Tobi

Turtles And Snakes And Spiders, Oh my!!

2010-11-03T12:04:00.000-04:00

Just a few pictures to show the completely fearless attitude of my little one. Thing 2 loves nature!!

I have really been working on my patience with the boys ( patience is not my strongest trait :) ) and I have also been trying to surprise them with neat little outings ( thoughtfully planned by me) that are of little to no cost, but that bring our family together for a little fun during the weekend. It feels like our weeks are so consumed with schedules, ( football, soccer, Reconciliation/Communion classes, homework, full time jobs, etc, etc,etc.) that I like to be able to spend quality time together, if even for a few moments, as a family.

Last weekend, I took the boys to Circle B Reserve ( I posted about our trail walk a few months ago HERE). This reserve is really cool and has a ton of trails and wildlife to enjoy year round. This past weekend, in lieu of a fall fest or art show, Circle B had a Naturefest......There were over 70 vendors spread out along the trail. The vendors included different groups promoting recycling, conservation, etc. And there were of ton of animals to see................

We had a great time, got in some trail walking and enjoyed our family time together.....I'm finally starting to realize ( it has only taken 10 years) that I need to cherish every moment I can with my beautiful children and be less worried about whether the laundry gets done or the house is clean.........

Thing 1 - a little more timid with all things "scary" - petting a very nice horse.

Thing 1 - not so timid - Yes, that is a tarantula...EWWWW

This is a very cool turtle from Africa. It is 11 years old and will live to be 80.

It was actually pretty fast for a turtle!!

Ball Python.....Again notice Thing 2 smiling at the cool factor of holding it and Thing 1 smiling because he doesn't have to...lol.....gotta love it!

On a very exciting note: I signed up for the Florida Hospital Celebration Health Founders' Day 10k !!
My first ever 10K and it's in 2 weeks - I think I am crazy because I still haven't even run 6.2 miles without stopping, since coming back from knee/shoulder surgery....my goal, to finish without walking.....don't care about the time, although there is a very secret time goal in my head......it's my competitive nature....don't judge......but any time will be a PR!!!

Happy Running,

Sleek and Sophisticated or Wavy and Wild???

2010-11-01T12:28:00.000-04:00

Sorry to make you wait, but here is my new hair cut.

I really like that I can wear it wavy or straight and it is really easy to do..
I hate all of these pictures and they have me feeling a bit self conscious because I cant seem to get a picture that I like with this hair do.....I feel like my face looks longer than usual ( it's really long anyways) and my neck looks like a scrawny chicken neck.....and I look dead tired and pale....okay, I'll stop - aren't we just so critical of ourselves sometimes/???

Here was the before:

And Here I am after:

I ran on Saturday morning. Did 5 miles without stopping!!! Average pace: 9:51....Not too shabby.....Trying to get to 6.2 without stopping so I can run my very first 10K on the 14th of November!

Happy Running,

CSA - Found it, Love it!!

2010-10-27T14:21:00.000-04:00

For those of you who are new or might miss a post here and there ( the nerve!), I posted about CSA's ( Community Shared Agriculture) and my quest to find one near me and buy a 1/2 share....... You can read that post HERE.....

Well, I found a CSA, and get this, Farmer John and his farm are literally 7 miles from my house....can you believe it??? Right on my way home.

So I signed up, and this was my very first basket.............

Now, this is just a 1/2 share, and it was PLENTY of veggies.....My family, who claimed ( before purchasing a 1/2 share of a farm) that they are veggie eaters, have turned out to be not so truthful and I am eating the majority of the veggies.....But they hog the tomatoes!!!

We have picked up 2 baskets so far and I love, love, love that the basket is filled with "normal" veggies, one's I would normally buy anyways....I am becoming more adventurous with eating and cooking, but there are still plenty of veggies that I don't like/love!!!!

This basket contained:

1 huge head of Romaine
6-8 Roma tomatoes
7 yellow summer squash
3 zucchini
3 bunches of scallions
8-10 radishes
3 cucumbers
3 sweet banana peppers
2 sunburst tangerines ( tart for marinades)
a bag of okra ( WE ARE NOT AN OKRA EATING FAMILY - we decided)

Pretty good for 1 weeks 1/2 share, I think....

If anyone has any great recipes that include these veggies.....please send them my way or at least give me a link!! I love to bake......so breads, cakes etc would be great too.... I know that they are veggies, but crazier things have happened.........

On a running note.......

I had the joy of meeting up with my friend Robin from Running Circles Around the Turtles....for a 3 miler and more importantly.....chatting and breakfast afterwards..... I think we decided to sign up for the Founders Day 10K in Celebration, FL on November 14th.....Why? Because I have never run a 10K AND because this is the 10K where I first met Robin and Morgan ( The Redhead) last year. Unfortunately, I didn't run last year because I had just injured my knee......BUT I was a great cheerleader....remember this post??? So we thought it would be neat to run this one together.......

This picture is of myself and Robin at our last bloggy meet up because I forgot my camera this time....but I showed you because I wanted you to see the before of my hair......I got it chopped....Oh the suspense......You will have to wait for my next post for the after pictures.....hopefully that won't be 2 weeks from now.....like my last post......this blog isn't called "busy" running mama for nothin!! This girl is crazy busy with things like........

Cheering on Thing 1's Soccer Team...Taking him to practice, etc...

Cheering on Thing 1's football team ( They went undefeated in the regular season and are playing their 2nd playoff game next week)!! Yay! Also all of the practices for that too....

So, between baking and cooking all of my vegetables so that nothing goes to waste, soccer and football practices and games, homework/schoolwork monitoring for Thing 1 and 2, working full time, and everything else life is throwing at me.....I've been too busy to blog daily......

I read your blogs daily though and try to comment here and there.......

Hope everyone is well.....................

Haircut post coming.......also, my trip to babysit my niece and a little look at more of my craftiness and my love for photography ( who knew??).
Till Then.........
Happy Running,

I'm Back......................

2010-10-11T12:37:00.000-04:00

Yep, I'm back from Atlanta ( didn't take my camera and my friend still has to send the one's she took - shame on me - bad blogger), I really need a small purse sized camera ...any suggestions??

Yep, I'm back from not blogging for over a week - life just got in the way and we were crazy busy this week!

But, do you know what I am most excited about being back from????

I am back from my surgery slump!!! Guess what I did????

I COMPLETED THE RUNNING DIVA MOM'S
VIRTUAL 10-10-10 10K!!

Here I am wearing my bib!!

Knee brace, check. Iphone, check. Cute running skirt, check.

Perfect weather,check! I think I'm ready to go!!!

Here's my bib up close ......

It definately has a 10-10-10 theme, along with tons of motivational running words!!!!

So, my last longest run was 3.5 Miles, so I know you are all wondering how I did 6.2.

I set out with a secret goal of running 4.0 miles and walking the remainder, but I would have been happy with 3.6 miles, cuz that is longer than my longest run since knee surgery. I initially was goping to do 2-5K's but I really wanted to challenge myself.

I set out and as you can see, I had negative splits for the first 3 miles and I made it to 3.1 and felt really good, so I kept going.....made it to 4.0 and still no stops to walk and felt good.....Got to 4.5 miles and was having some hip pain. I knew I would probably have hip trouble, because my hips had been totally uneven all week and I am still trying to get them back in balance......

I stopped at 4.5 to walk and I walked .25 miles (I was walking fast though, like a 12:30 min/mile).....paused my time only to stretch out my hips and legs, and then felt like I could run again. I ran another .50 miles and stopped again to walk for another .25. Stretched my hips and legs one last time and then I finished the last .70 with a strong run.

So I actually ran all but .50 miles!! I am very proud of me!!!!!

Notice my 10:00 min average pace. Weird since it was a 10K and it's 10-10-10

Awesome negative splits for the first 4 miles!!!

No more negative splits, but not too bad since I walked .50 miles during these last 1.7 miles!!

This was my finish line!! This trail is awesome. It is out an back and it's full of shade and trees.

I am a bit on the sweaty side here!!!

Have to admit I am quite sore today , but I still feel really good about what I did yesterday! It make me feel like I am offically on my way back!!!
Happy Running,

The Good, The Bad, The Ugly

2010-09-30T16:35:00.000-04:00

The Good:

I'm getting on a plane to Atlanta tomorrow for a girls weekend with a great friend (God bless my wonderful hubby who allows me to do these things)
I may get to finish the 2 books I am reading right now ( I never do that - it just happened!!)
Thing 1's football team is 7-0 ( Go Titans!) and his soccer team is 1-0!! Life is busy but sooo much better when you are winning ( of course, I don't tell my children this!!)
I PASSED THE FIRST PART OF MY ENROLLED AGENT EXAM! That is why I haven't blogged in a few days.....studying, exam taking, mild anxiety attack during exam and when waiting for the dumb computer to tell me if I passed, complete relief upon passing, realization that I was exhausted from studying.........
Dad turned 60 this week. Got to spend tons of time with the family AND with my little niece...love her!!

My Dad and Thing 1 - Love This picture!

Thing 1 is 10 and it is rare that he smiles like this, he usually has an attitude :0)!!

He LOVES football!!!

Seriously, What is not to love about her?? My niece is just so stinkin cute I want to kiss her face off!!

I get to go babysit for a long weekend, in just a couple of weeks! yay!

The Bad:

Have 2 more parts of the EA exam to take and I am trying to complete them before mid January when tax season ramps up. So after Atlanta this weekend, it's back to studying!
I have not run this week, at all. Not because I couldn't physically, but because life got in the way. My friend in Atlanta used to run cross country in college and has recently started running again, hoping to get in at least 2 runs while I am there!!
I'm so tired....all of the time. I really think it has to be these stupid blood thinners I am on. Anyone else out there on Warfarin and tired all of the time???? UGGGHHHH...... Another 1 1/2 months and I can be rid of this stuff!!
Supposed to go with hubby, sans kids, to visit my best friend from high school, who lives a few hours away, in a few weeks. I haven't seen her in months, although we talk every couple of days....it's been cancelled, with no reschedule in sight....I completely understand, but I'm bummed......I miss her!!

The Ugly:

Not sure why I can't get this dumb picture rotated...either way, that is my elbow with a big itchy rash on it.

Dermatologist says...it's a rash, it's genetic in origin, it will come and go....here's some cream......lovely.

Thought it might be psoriasis, but it's only on one elbow and no where else......I also, have never had any sensitive skin issues, so this is very random (and annoying)!

Headed to see the comedian Bryan Regan tonight and then hopping on a flight to Atlanta in the early AM -

Anyone in Atlanta who wants to run Sat or Sun morning, 3-4 miles.....I'll be in the Buckhead area......Also, any great dinner suggestions???

Talk at ya later - or when I get back!!!

Have a super running weekend - Maybe I'll get to 3.75 miles......or 4.0 ??? Who knows???
Happy Running,

And the winner is.......

2010-09-25T13:44:00.000-04:00

The winner of my 100th follower/100th post, 1 year blogaversary was chosen by random.org......

#49 shel at Auntie Thesis....................send me your mailing address and email address ASAP. I will be sending all of the goodies and 26MileStones will be emailing you to make arrangements for your bib coasters and magnets.

Corrine at Scentsy offered another small plug in Scentsy warmer with 2 scents so I got to pick another winner...........................random#6 misszippy. Send me your mailing address and I'll send you this!

Happy Running,

My Apologies......

2010-09-24T08:55:00.000-04:00

So I have to say a great BIG sorry for my post yesterday.......

Why sorry? Because of all days to do a post on Swagbucks, which , by the way, is totally awesome and you do need to go there and register and use it as your search engine ( just sayin).....But, of all days, I pick the day that the site totally crashed....................

ummmmmm, I'd like to think that it was all my fault, that my thousands of readers and followers, rushed right over, exactly as I instructed, and that Swagbucks just couldn't handle the volume.....and it crashed......but I'm pretty sure that is not the case. Always good to dream, right?? I have to say, that in the months that I have been using Sawgbucks, I've NEVER had a problem....but, of course, since I did a post yesterday....It had problems and may still have problems today.......but go there and give it a shot...be patient through the weekend, but I promise you will love it..........

On a better note..............Who's ready to start decorating for Halloween/Fall????

I told you guys that I'm crafty and I have found two wreaths that I love.........

Source: Craftaholics Anonymous ( love her blog) and she includes a tutorial...

So simple and modern...love the gray.......Source: Better Homes and Gardens

So What Do You Think??

Which Should I Make??

Do you have any great links to great Halloween/Fall decor?

Check out this Black & White Halloween Decor Idea....at Maddycakes Muse....

Are you inspired????? I am!!

Now, If only I had some extra time.......

Happy Running,

Thrifty Thursday and Swagbucks!

2010-09-23T07:09:00.000-04:00

Hello All.

Don't fortget to enter my giveaway (ends this Saturday) HERE

Thrifty Thursday is all about saving you money and helping you get free things in this lovely economy we are living in.

Today's post is about Swagbucks.

If you grab the widget above, I will get a referral and you will be welcomed to the world of Swagbucks. Or click on any one of the Swagbuck links in this post, and I will still get credit if you don't want the widget.

The way it works, is that you can use the Swagbucks sight to search the internet ( just like google, yahoo, etc), I have actually made it my home page. By doing your searches from this site, you can win Swagbucks ( points) for your searches. Then you can spend your Swagbucks on giftcards and merchandise.

So, you get "paid" to search....how easy is that?? On Fridays, you can win more points than usual from searching! And tomorrow is Friday, so get signed up today, so you can win extra points tomorrow!!

You can also get Swagbucks by taking surveys, shopping through their site ( like Ebates), and even by trading in old cell phones!

So click on one of the links or grab the widget above and start earning!!!!

It's fun!!! I've already won $20 in giftcards for Amazon and I've only been doing it for a couple of months. And, because I work full time, I'm really not on the net that often......So for someone who uses the internet for work or spends a lot of time searching the internet....you get could get tons of points. Once you sign up, the more people you refer....the more points you get, because you win points when your referrals win points!!

So go HERE and sign up today!!!!

On a running note.........................

I ran 3.0 miles last night at 11:13 avg pace - Had negative splits.....check it out:

My dad turns 60 next week and mom's throwing a big party for him tomorrow night, Thing 1 has his first soccer game for the season on Saturday and I take the 1st test of 3 tests for my Enrolled Agent designantion on Monday morning....so I will be studying this weekend between events!!

Winner announced Saturday afternoon or Sunday morning so eneter my GIVEAWAY if you haven't already!
Happy Running,

3 Important Things before Date Night!

2010-09-20T16:14:00.001-04:00

I have 3 Important Things to Share with you today and then I'll tell you about Date Night:

1) If you haven't entered my giveaway ( of lots of cool items) go HERE. Giveaway ends Saturday Sept. 26th at noon!! (EST).

2) I have new social networking tools, hubby will be making it easier with buttons, but for now...... Under my signature, you can access my new Facebook Fan Page.. and you can go HERE to follow me on Twitter.

Now, this whole Twitter thing, I am not even sure if I should open this can of worms right now, but I really just don't get it......I have had a Twitter account for a while. Which consists of about 20 people that I follow ( and I am ashamed to admit, they are mostly stars that I like to spy on) and a few followers who are just close friends) Other than that, I have no idea how to use Twitter.....When I send out a Tweet, it goes to like 5 people and those 5 people never tweet back...what is the point??

I have no idea what all the @ and # crap means...I sooooo need to take a twitter class!!

So, follow me on Twitter....why? I have no idea really, maybe so that if I tweet, someone will actually be out there and receive it???

3) I RAN 3.24 MILES (NO WALKING)!!!!
I MEAN, I REALLY DID IT, THAT IS A FREAKIN 5K...........
So all you marathoners out there probably think I am crazy to be soooooo excited about this, but after shoulder and knee surgery and 10 months of no exercise...I really never thought I'd see the day!!

I am still struggling with leg soreness in a major way ( mainly IT bands on both legs) but overall, the knee feels good and I feel great!! Yay Me!!!!

DATE NIGHT........
Hubby and I had the chance to go on a date on Friday night because a great friend of ours invited BOTH of our boys to spend the night! So no babysitting $$ had to be spent! Yay!!

Hubby took me to Abuelos for Mexican food and my favorite frozen drink....Margarita/Sangria swirl!

Then he said he was taking me to paint pottery! He knows I love to be creative and that I would enjoy it..I was a bit worried about him....... Here is how the painting went................ (excuse the photos..they were taken with iPhones.....)

We both picked coffee mugs....Mine for my morning coffee, his to hold pencils on his desk ( he is not a coffee drinker)...This is me getting started ( terrible pic, BTW)

This would be hubby's mug...about 5 minutes after we started .....Ummmm he's done??

What is that?? It is the colors of the company he works for...other than that...I'm not sure.....

And I continue to work..Im a bit OCD sometimes,

so I started to worry what the heck he is gonna do while I paint for another 2 hours................

He heads over to the bookstore and says he will be right back.......

25 minutes later, he comes back and this is what I see.....

Hubby found a book and said to take my time......

Here it is...took me like 2 hours and it will look much different ( I hope) when it is fired....

I'll show you guys the finished product when I get it back in 5-7 days!!!

We really had a nice time, spending quality time together is much needed on a regular basis...we are soooo busy all of the time with our 2 boys, 2 dogs, athletics, running , etc.....We always make sure to plan dates and even weekends away together!!

Love my hubby more than words can say!!!
Happy Running,

It's Giveaway Day!!!!!

2010-09-18T08:47:00.004-04:00

Okay Johnny, tell them what they've won.................................................a new car!! Just kidding...

Today is the day I am doing the giveaway for my 100th post/100th follower/1 year blogaversary!!!!

It has been a fantastic bloggy year and a not so fantastic running year!!

I hope this year will be better as far as running goes.

Here is what the Giveaway includes:

1) XL " Green is the New Black" Reusable Market bag. From FashionableNotes on Etsy
2) 1 Large Scentsy Warmer with 2 Scents from Corrine at Scentsy
3) A $15 gift card to iTunes, so you can try loloBurn or Tyrone Wells
4) An original piece of jewelry handmade by me!!
5) A cute notepad trio "Shoes,Shopping, Retail Therapy"
6) A set of 4 Bib Coasters and 2 sets of running magnets from Allison at 26MileStones on Etsy

Here's what it looks like........

Here's how to get entries:

REQUIRED:
1) Become a follower or say that you already are.

EXTRA ENTRIES:
2) Grab my button and put it on your blog and say that you did.
3) Add me to your blog roll.
4) Follow me on Twitter HERE
5) Follow 26Milestones on Facebook HERE
6) Follow FashionableNotes on Facebook HERE or on Twitter HERE
7) If you purchase anything from Corrine at Scentsy, FashionableNotes, 26MileStones, or if you purchase the loloBurn App or any of Tyrone Wells Music, I will give you an extra entry for each item purchased.
8) Like me on Facebook HERE
9) Blog about, Tweet using @busyrunningmama in your tweet , or announce the giveaway on Facebook. Extra entry for each. You can come back and comment everyday if you send a new tweet or facebook everyday!

*****Separate entries for each thing is required.*************

Some of the above giveaway items were free and some were purchased by me, all of the reviews and opinions are my own
Only open to the U.S. - For shipping purposes.

Can't wait to pick a winner!! You have till next Saturday September 25th at 12:00PM (EST)

BTW - I had a great date night with hubby....post tomorrow! Gator game today on TV while I ~~study~~ cram my @ss off for the first part of my EA ( Enrolled Agent) exam in a little over a week ( shoot me now).........

Hope to run in the morning!!

Happy Running,

Favorite Things Friday.......

2010-09-17T10:55:00.000-04:00

I am wrapping up this week of giveaway hints with some of my favorite things. I may end up throwing in a few of these things to my giveaway.....which will be posted tomorrow.......sooooo exciting!!

I think some of you are starting to see that although this is somewhat of a running blog, there's really more to it than that, and I am okay with that.

When I first started this blog, it was about strictly running......I was a new runner and every run was a new distance, a new PR and it was all exciting and I felt I had tons to blog about......
then injury happened, and surgery and rehab and no exercise for 8-9 months and I thought I just shouldn't blog because I had no running to blog about.

Then after some soul searching, I realized, I am soooooo much more than a runner. I am a wife ( and a really good one at that ) , a mother ( devoted and loving), I am a friend ( and I love my friends like crazy!), I am a coach ( I motivate others to run and exercise, encourage my children to be active) I am crafty ( I love, love, love to make things......jewelry, party invitations/decorations, crafts......), I love to cook ( and I think every family should sit and eat together, at least a few times a week), I love to shop ( but most of all to find the best bargain, using coupons and specials and tons of internet research....)
There are so many things that my readers may not know about me, that I have yet to share. Just like I follow runners blogs, I also follow crafting blogs, food blogs, mommy blogs, coupon blogs........

So today, I want to show you some other aspects of me, by showing you images of things I love, things that inspire me, things that make me smile...........running related or not, this is who I am and what makes me me.......

Started with this one because this is my life.....my heart and my soul......my family.

(This picture is several years old but I just love it!)

I love, love, love to wear long dresses, big earring and sandals........I'm a bit girly sometimes....BUT NOT HIGH MAINTENANCE....there is a difference!!

Seriously.......Crack in a bag.........

These are new and I cannot stop myself from buying them or eating them...

I have always love BBQ chips, but this is different.....

And they say All Natural.....so they are good for me, Right???

This is Tyrone Wells, my favorite Singer/Songwriter ever!!

If you haven't heard him.....Take a listen...such feel good music!!

or just buy tickets for Tyrone’s Songs & Stories Tour.....Here

Based out of CA, but touring the US right now!!!

Best coffee maker ever. Have one at home and at work.

A cup of coffee from this machine ( along with a ton of sugar and cream....don't judge)

makes me smile every morning....it's that good!!!

I LOVE Flowers.....They make me smile. Now, again, I am not high maintenance, so the flowers can be outside on the neighbors bush, I just love them........I treat myself to grocery store flowers every so often and I love to do my own arrangements.......

I could eat pasta for every meal......really I could!! Any great ( healthy, or not) pasta recipes.....send them my way...I love to cook remember!!!

So that is it.............A few of my favorite things......................did you learn anything???

Big Giveaway post tomorrow.........Date Night tonight with hubby........A little running this weekend........

What are a few of your favorite things?????
Happy Running,

She's Crafty.................

2010-09-16T07:17:00.000-04:00

Not sure if anyone knows, so if you're reading this shhhhhh , don't tell. I am a closet crafter.
Okay, now you know and I feel much better for it.

I love all things crafty! And if I had enough time to do all of the things that I conjure up in my head AND had time for another blog, that's what it would be. A crafting blog!

I actually follow quite a few crafting blogs, and I live vicariously through these lovely ladies. I just cant find the time right now for all my crafy projects so I admire and oohh and ahhh over others......

Like Craftaholics Anonymous and Crafting In The Closet and Decor Chick and Maddycakes Muses and sooooo many more.

If you are a closet crafter, check out their blogs!!

I make jewelry also! I have been promising to giveaway jewelry on this blog and I thought, what better way, than in my big blog giveaway ( should be posted Saturday! Yay!)....

I have attempted to take some photos of some of the pieces I have on hand right now, but they really don't do the jewelry justice. I have yet to figure out how to photograph my jewelry so that it shows it's true color and beauty. Oh well, use your imaginations!!

Here it is

Ok, those photos are worse than I thought.........................

But I will be including a piece of jewelry in my giveaway basket. I also do custom pieces, mother's bracelets , etc. I use all sterling silver, natural stones, Czech glass beads and Swarovski crystals!!

lolo Burn kicked my butt this morning, I actually got very nauseous, but kept it together and finished...almost 3 miles with only a little bit of walking.

Supposed to run tonight again...wow, that my be called a 2 a day! Haha!
Happy Running,

Green is the New Black

2010-09-15T06:53:00.000-04:00

Really, it is. Our family has been doing our part to go green this year.

We have:

Recycled to the tune of 2-3 large buckets every week
Created a lunchbox system using few to no baggies, if you didn't read that post, you can, HERE
Stopped buying water bottles unless we are out somewhere and it's our only choice. I use a filtered water pitcher at work with a Tervis Tumbler!
Made a huge effort to turn off lights, TV's etc. We also ultilize our programmable thermostat for our A/C unit.

We are not over the top or crazy about it, but we have definately been making an effort!!

Are You Making An Effort To Go Green??

The one thing that I have started doing is keeping a reusable bag in my purse so that I never ( or almost never) come home with plastic......or paper, for that matter.

I have them in every style and shape from every local store/grocer, but I can't seem to have enough. I keep one in my purse, several in each car, in the house.....everywhere.

I have very few that I feel are super sturdy so imagine my surprise, when I was once again perusing Etsy ( don't hate....I love Etsy and cant seem to get enough!!), and this caught my eye................ I came across a store called FashionableNotes

This bag is XXL and perfect for a farmers market trip !! Nice and roomy and extra sturdy canvas! Washable too!!

Then I looked more and here is what I found.......

Seriously love this one!!

Sooooo Cute!

Even the men have no excuse not to go green!!

This picture gives you an idea of the size of these bags they are amazing!!

This jute bag is one of my favorites!!!

So I contacted Aubrey of FashionableNotes Etsy store and she offered to send me a free bag to review....this is the one I chose:

How cute is that??

Of course, to fully review the bag, I HAD to go shopping! Even took a day off of work and spent some quality time with my mom. Let me tell you, this bag is so amazing. The quality is top notch, it is sturdy and well made.
It is also VERY roomy.....This is called a LARGE, so I cant imagine how big the XXL Market bag is. The canvas material is very thick and it held up perfectly for my entire 8 hour shopping extravaganza! I even bought heavier items like a ceramic chip and dip and some new bedding ( Yay!) and the bag was perfect!!

I mean who doesn't love a reusable, washable, everyday use bag that has form and function but is also fashionable and has flair?!?

So, head on over to FashionableNotes Etsy Store, and pick out a bag to fit your needs and your style. I know all of the foodie bloggers out there will love these bags for their farmer's market trips!!

Buy a bag and use it as the "wrapping paper" for a Christmas gift......

Make a gift for a wedding shower with a theme of going green and put everything in this bag....

So many ways these bags can be used........

If you make a purchase at FashionableNotes, leave me a comment and you will get extra entries into my BIG giveaway at the end of the week......I have a feeling that one of these bags might just be big enough to hold a lot of giveaway items.....hint,hint.........

***************************************************
BTW, I think I must say "Yay!" a lot. Many of my readers say "Yay" when they comment on my posts...it must be catchy. I mean, are 35 year old's too old to say "yay"?? Oh well, what do I care, in my world there are no rules, I do what I want, dammit...................

Oh, and since this is a running blog....with a ton of Mama and way too much Busy going on......I'm still doing loloBurn, which is getting to 2.5 - 3 miles , 4 mornings a week and I am burning 250-300 calories.....

I haven't been doing Yoga, although I know I need to, and I have been running, sans loloBurn, at least one time on the weekend.

Between Little League Football with Thing 1 ( he made his very first touchdown last night!!), studying for my EA exam, and working full time, that is all I have time for. And BTW, my IT bands are KILLING me....time to order a foam roaller! Any suggestions on a certain brand???

Happy Running,

Milestones

2010-09-14T07:19:00.000-04:00

Milestones.......When you think of milestones, do you think of your children? Their first word, their first tooth, their first step???
If you don't have children, do you think of your life?....graduating high school or college, your first real job, getting engaged??

These can all be the milestones of our lives. Memories. Memories that make us cry or smile or that bring up strong feelings from the past.

In running, we have memories of races past. We have milestones. Our first mile, our first 5K and for some, our first Marathon! We have photos and race memorabilia that remind of us all of our accomplishments in running. But what do we do with all of the stuff, with the swag?? Some of you have medal holders and accomplishment boards, but why not incorporate these things in your everyday life. Running is part of your soul, part of who you are.

While perusing Etsy the other day ( by the way I love, love, love Etsy) , I came across 26MileStones, and I thought....wow, what a great idea!!

Here is what Allison of 26MileStones has to say.......

Just finished your first 5k? Maybe you've been collecting race # bibs for years, and don't know what to do with them? Perhaps you're looking for a personalized special gift for the runner in your life?

Facebook fans get special promotions and sneak peeks.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mile-Stones/138961582805898

What's Your Next Mile Stone?

Don't you think this is so clever and creative? These are porcelain coasters ( a set of 4) that essentially are your favorite race bib!! Allison can use the actual bib or make a color copy so you can save the original. What a conversation starter when guests come over and a daily reminder of your greatest accomplishments!

As soon as I get a race bib, I will be ordering for sure.

She also makes these awesome running magnets!!

So, my 100th Follower Nej has a choice of a set of coasters and 2 sets of magnets OR a small Scentsy warmer with 2 set of scents! Pretty awesome.....

And you just might see these again at the end of the week in my giveaway basket!!!

Please head over to 26MileStones and take a look around!

If you end up ordering, let me know and I'll give you an extra entry in my giveaway for each item you purchase!!

What is your biggest milestone? In running or in life?

Happy Running,

100th Follower!!!

2010-09-13T12:11:00.000-04:00

100th follower!!

Yay me!! I know I'm a dork, but I've been waiting for 3 days for my 100th follower!! I was stuck at 99 last night and it was killing me!

I did the happy dance, threw a little confetti up in the air and let it fall on my head ( coworker thinks I'm strange, but who cares) and I am smiling from ear to ear!

I secretly was holding on to a giveaway prize for my 100th follower ......

so....... Nej at I Think I can, I Think I can.....is the lucky gal. Head on over and check out her blog!!!

I gave her a choice of a small Scentsy Warmer ( see my earlier post today for a review) or the item I will be reviewing tomorrow..............guess you'll have to come back tomorrow to see what it is ( I'm just full of surprises aren't I??)

With 100 followers, over 100 posts and 1 year under my belt, I guess after this week of reviewing my favorite things.....MY BIG GIVEAWAY WILL BE POSTED........................................YAY!!!!!!!!

Happy Running,

Scentsy Review

2010-09-13T07:17:00.001-04:00

Still looking for my 100th follower...........................................anyone???

This week will be full of review of some of my favorite things, so enjoy and you might see these again in a big basket with the word giveaway attached...........

I have a great friend, Corrine, who sells Scentsy from her home and has introduced me to the products and I am sold!!

I got my first scentsy close to 2 years ago and I love it. I have added more to my home and I can honestly say that I love coming home to a great smelling house.

Now I know that we are all athletes, with smelly clothes and shoes and if you have multiple athletes in the home, watch out......the smells can get bad and linger and....well, you know.

Scentsy began with a powerfully simply idea—a safe, wickless alternative to traditional candles—and quickly grew into one of the most successful direct selling companies in the industry.

The great thing is that these scent warmers are safe. They are warmed with a low wattage light bulb, so if left on, its just like leaving on a lamp. Also, once the scents liquefy, even if small hands happen to touch the liquid wax, it will not burn them. It may feel very hot for a second, but will not blister/burn the skin. They are safe for all households!!

The next best thing about Scentsy products is the broad variety of warmer styles and scents, there are 100's of scents!! The scents come in "bricks" that you break off and melt in the warmer and they last forever. A pack of 6 bricks is $5 and they will last you months ( or at least mine do).

They even have small plug in warmers that can replace your Glade/Airwick Plug ins.

Head on over to Corrine's website and take a look........................also, stay tuned because Corrine may or may not have ( hint,hint) offered up a free scentsy warmer with some scents for my big giveaway coming
up!!!

If you happen to place an order before my giveaway, let me know in a comment and I'll make sure you get an extra entry for every item you purchase!! Remember, the Holidays are right around the corner and these warmers make great gifts!!!
Happy Running,

99 Followers....................And The Winner is....................

2010-09-13T06:52:00.000-04:00

With 41 comments and a handful of new followers, I used Random.org to pick a winner for the $15 iTunes gift card.............................

Drum roll Please...............................

The winner is Kiesha from Fitness Junkie!!

Kiesha is a stay at home mom of 3 and a runner. She is a brand new follower to my blog! Welcome! I am a new follower of her blog as well. So great to keep gaining new followers and getting to know other runners!!

Email me your address and I will get your gift card in the mail ASAP!!!

99 followers.......................I will be reviewing all types of products this week that may or may not be (hint, hint) in my big 100 followers/100th post/1 year blogaversary giveaway...........stay tuned!!!

Happy Running,

2.5 Miles!!! And don't forget my Giveaway!

2010-09-12T10:42:00.000-04:00

I RAN 2.5 MILES YESTERDAY!!
average pace: 10:12/mile

Yep, a new all time farthest for me. I think lolo Burn is helping me. I'm doing it during the week at the wee hours of the morning and I think it is helping me build up endurance, even though I am doing the walk/jog combo. I found that the 2.5 miles running without stopping was easier than the 2.1 miles I did a week ago!! Yay!

On another note, I am getting soooooooooooooooooooooo close to 100 followers, and I have some goodies stacked up here for a pretty good giveaway, but I have to reach 100 followers first!

So don't forget about my

$15 iTunes giveaway.................................HERE. You have until 10:00PM (eastern time) tonight and I will announce the winner tomorrow morning!

I've made it pretty easy to enter and who couldn't use 15 new running songs or a few cool new apps ( like lolo Burn) !!! Check it out.

Hope everyone had fantastic weekend!!!!
Happy Running,

LOLO BURN APP AND GIVEAWAY!!

2010-09-08T12:33:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone!! I had a crazy, busy weekend and I'll leave it at that, because if I list out what I did and how much I drove.....you'd all be tired at the end of my post and I want to make sure you have enough energy to use this.....................................

This is the lolo burn app for iPhone/iTouch!!

Here is the Apple/ I Tunes Description

LOSE SERIOUS WEIGHT, get in shape and have fun doing it!

lolo Burn is the ONLY app that adjusts the beat of the music to match your feet! And it's the first, fully realized, interactive personal trainer for the iPhone and iPod Touch. Heart pounding beats and expert guidance take the WORK out of your workouts and drive you to burn more calories.

lolo Burn Supports iPhone 4 Retina Display
Compatible with Nike+ and Bluetooth Audio

KILLER FEATURES

• Use your own music or the 24 tracks of included high-energy music (2-CDs worth)!

• The beat of the music changes to match the pace of your feet!

• Use it on a treadmill or take it outside. Walk, walk-jog or run.

• A real voice guides and motivates you through your workouts – not a scary computer voice.

• Fill out your profile and lolo Burn designs the perfect program.

• Your program progresses, every day is a new challenge.

• Adjust your workout at anytime using the interactive graph.

• Change songs at any time without interrupting your workout.

• lolo Burn is easy enough for beginners yet can still challenge elite athletes!

WHY WE ARE DIFFERENT

• lolo Burn is entertaining and has personality! No more monotonic "Run", "Walk", "Run", "Walk".

• Your trainer will speak to you every step of the way, like a real person. She will tell you what to do, respond to your feedback, track your time, and give you helpful tips and bits of encouragement to keep you on pace for the results you want.

• Every line of audio is selected on the fly. This is why your trainer can instantly respond to your feedback and change your workout. These aren’t just clever studio mixes. Your trainer knows what you’re doing and responds to the situation.

• lolo Burn does more than just track your pace outside, it sets it. The music is the key to a great workout and great results, especially outside. The beat of the music will keep you on pace at all times. It’s like having the precision and accuracy of a treadmill in the great outdoors.

PERSONAL TRAINER

lolo Burn features a personal trainer whose voice guides you through each workout, giving you the tips you need to get the most out of your workout and the motivation to keep going no matter how tough it gets. lolo Burn gives you complete control as you move through your workout. Turn the intensity down a bit when you're struggling or crank it up when you're ready for more, and your trainer adjusts your workout on the fly.

BEAT SYNC

There's nothing quite like the feeling of walking to the beat of your favorite song. That Saturday Night Fever strut? (YouTube it, kids) We wanted to have that feeling during every workout, so we built lolo Burn to dynamically change the beat of the music to perfectly match your pace, and included 24 high energy tracks to get you started. Trust us, your workouts will feel easier even though you're actually working harder and burning more calories.

DESIGNED AROUND YOU

Whether you're a beginner or an athlete, lolo Burn will design the perfect program for your schedule and fitness level.

NEVER BORING

lolo Burn workouts change up the intensity frequently to keep it fun and exciting and most importantly, to challenge your body. Each program uses a combination of intervals and pyramid training to mix up the intensity.

TRACKING

Indoors or outdoors, lolo Burn keeps track of your speed and calories burned, so you always know if you're on track to hit your personal fitness goal.

I have used this app 7 times now over the last week and a half! The workout gets harder and more challenging each time. For all of you who love to track miles/pace, etc, you will need to wear your Garmin because this app does not do that! What it does do, is provide cool music that keeps/changes with your pace and it has "Brittany" who talks to you the whole time you are working out. You get to set the levels, choose walk only, walk/jog, or all run and the amount of time that you want to exercise.

If you use it on a treadmill, Brittany will tell you at what speed and incline to work. She also motivates you, reminds you to breathe, and encourages you to keep going and reach your goal!! She is awesome. If you can't afford a personal trainer, which I can't, and you want to mix up your workouts a bit, this is the answer!! The concept is to burn a certain number of calories and therefore lose weight, but I just love the extra push that comes with setting a goal and having someone hold you to it, without needing to find a real life running buddy!! Let's face it, our schedules don't always synch up with our running buddies, and sometimes we want to run alone but need the extra motivation!!

The app normally costs $4.99, not too bad, and much cheaper than a personal trainer!! Check it out HERE!!

If you don't want to spend $4.99, I'm sneaking in a small giveaway today so that someone can try it for free. I'm still trying to get to 100 followers, which will mean a bigger giveaway, so maybe this will help!!

One Busyrunningmama Follower will win:

a $15 iTunes Gift Card!

So you can purchase the lolo burn app and still have some $$ leftover for some new running playlist songs!!

All you have to do is :

1) Become a follower, or tell me that you already are.
2) Tell me your favorite iTunes app and/or your favorite song to run to.
3) Tell your followers about my giveaway on your blog, or Tweet about it, or send a Facebook message.

***Make sure you do a separate comment for each please!!*****

I'll pick a winner on Sunday, Sept 12th at 10:00PM and announce the winner Monday!!

Happy Running,

My Somnio Experience.....

2010-08-31T08:59:00.000-04:00

I know I have been talking about the Somnio Running Shoes for a while now. I tried to win them on another blog, but unfortunately, that didn't happen. I tried writing the company to see if they would let me review them....not so much. So I bit the bullet. I went over to the Somnio website, HERE, to locate a store near me that does the fittings. There was one that was very near me, but I am not particularly a fan of that store, so I chose to drive a bit further and I am very glad I did.

Here is what Somnio is all about ( straight from their website) :

Somnio is Latin for “dream.” Our mission is to help people achieve their lifestyle goals and do so while remaining injury and pain free. We aren’t just selling shoes; we’re solving problems, and are helping to make some dreams come true along the way.

Somnio is founded on the principle that shoes should adapt to the individual and improve biomechanics. Every person is different, and we believe that every pair of shoes should be different, too, so we built a platform for making that possible. Our exclusive system of almost infinite shoes and limitless possibilities was designed in the nation’s leading sports medicine lab, and then tested and refined there on real people, just like you. Our adjustable component system is superior to every running and casual shoe currently on the market.

We believe focus provides a clear path to achievement. We are focused on making great shoes that accommodate to every individuals needs. We are focused on building the perfect Somnio shoe for you.

I took my PT to the fitting so that she could see the process and make sure all of my lovely and unique issues were addressed.

I went to Gear for Multisports, a store in Clermont, FL. I called ahead to make sure that there would be someone there that day as it was a bit of a drive ( little over an hour). The owner, Kimberly, advised me she would be there to do the fitting personally.

When I arrived, Kimberly greeted me and got straight to work on starting my fitting. She checked the wear on my current shoes which wasn't much because I purchased them 9 months ago, right before I got injured (hmmmmmm??) and haven't run too many miles since.

Here are some pictures to try to show you the process.....Thanks Jan (my PT) for being a great photographer while I was the guinea pig!

That's Kimberly on the left.

This is me on the machine that they use to figure out what type of insoles go in the shoe.

They used laser levels to figure me out...I'm a tough puzzle to solve!!

Notice the cute running skirt- Haven't worn it to run yet, but I really like it!

After all the lasers, Kimberly set to work on getting the right insole in to each shoe.

Then I headed to the treadmill. This is the first attempt. You will notice that in this picture, I am still compensating for the turning in of my knee by pointing my right foot out to the side,

this is actually better than usual.

Just by a quick change of the insert and adding more varus, You can see a big difference. Only a very slight turning out of my foot and my knee is pointing straight forward.

Here is the end result, They look the same from the outside.....I'm not so in love with the red and yellow accents that ALL of the Somnio's have BUT I am to the point that fashion and flair must be ignored for function and form!!

They are a bit different on the inside...more arch on the left and more varus on the right....

I love the no nonsense packaging too.....very cool

I would have to say that my Somnio fitting experience was great. Kimberly at Gear for Multisports in Clermont is VERY knowledgeable about running, biking, swimming and nutrition. She has a passion for athletics and it shows! She competes in Iron Man's and she is awesome. She advised me that she does nutrition clinics once a quarter so I can't wait to go to one!!!

I cannot do a full review on the shoe yet, because I am still adjusting and tweaking.....Have a few spots that are hurting here and there and I am trying to work it out.

I will tell you that they have definitely made a difference in my knee/imbalance issues on the right side and I expend less energy as I no longer have to compensate on that side. Because I have a very wide toe box and a narrow heal, the fit is just not quite the same as my old shoes......I am going to give them a few more runs and if still having issues, I may head back over to visit Kimberly to see what we can do, but I do love the shoe.......Stay tuned........

Happy Running,

Bloggy Meet up and Bucs Game!!

2010-08-30T09:39:00.000-04:00

Saturday was a great day. What is better than meeting up with new bloggy running friends and then going to get new shoes??
I also got to go to a preseason Tampa Bay Bucs game with a great friend, her son and Thing 1. All in all, it was a busy day with a ton of driving, but it was a great day!!

Bloggy meet up was arranged by Robin over at Running Circles Around The Turtles. We all met at Jason's Deli and the food was awesome. Fresh and healthy !!
Now Robin, I have met before. If you've been around a while, HERE is the post where I went over to cheer her on in a race and meet her and The Redhead for the first time! She has been an inspiration and constant motivation since then. She was just as sweet as ever at this bloggy meet up and came armed with table decorations, cute little gifts ( a piggy bank to save for races!) and personalized notes! How sweet is that?!
I also got to meet MJ, from Girl Running, we decided we might have been separated at birth! We both love ice cream in a cone, yogurt with gummy bears as a topping, and we both have Sour gummy lifesavers on our desk right now....so funny!!I am sure if we had more time to chat, we would have much more in common....we were already talking about a running meet up as soon as I can get my mileage up a bit!

My PT, Jan Lawlor, went with me to the lunch too! She's not in the photos, because she was so kind to offer to take the group photo!!

I met quite a few others who run in and around central FL and was jealous of all of the ambitious races they were training for!! A few were training for half marathons, 15K's and even a half Iron Man!! Awesome. Here are a few photos!

Love, Love, Love Robin! Thanks again for arranging the meet up!!!

The whole group!!

So after lunch. I headed to Gear for Multisports, a store in Clermont FL, to get fitted for the coveted Somnio shoes I have been lusting after forever!!

I think that whole process deserves it's own post, so stay tuned for that tomorrow!! If you have imbalance issues or pain on one side and not the other, these could be the shoes for you.........

After Orlando, and Clermont, both of which are 1 to 1.5 hours East of my house, I headed home for a quick change and to pick up Thing 1 because we were headed to the Buc's preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Tampa is an hour West of my house.....a lot of driving today!

A few pics from the game. My friend works for the Buc's and called early Saturday to offer me 4 Club level seats on the 50 yard line with a parking pass....for free...hello?? Who says no to that?? It was very fun , even though they lost!!!

View from the 50 yard line.

Cool Pirate ship in the end zone. Shoots off canons every time something good happens!!

Good friend Candace who joined me. The boys kept rolling their eyes because we were talking fashion during a football game....hello, we ARE girls!!

And we hadn't seen each other in a while so it was great to catch up!!!

Thing 2 in the front with his friend Alex! They had a blast and we got a play by play as they would not keep their sweet little mouths closed the entire game....pretty funny actually...those little boogers know a lot about football!!!!

So stay tuned for plenty of info on my new SOMNIO's tomorrow!!

Also, if you haven't noticed, I am up to 90 followers....pretty close to 100. I think I might be able to get my butt in gear for that giveaway I have been talking about! Maybe a 100th post/1st year blogaversary/ 100th follower blow out giveaway...sounds like fun to me!! I even have a few vendors who have agreed to help out !! Stay tuned....the longer I wait, the more swag I might have.....how long will it take to get to 100 followers??????????

Happy Running,

Foodie Friday....Behold, The Pumpkin!

2010-08-27T09:04:00.000-04:00

First things first, it's Friday, and tragedy has been avoided.........................

Still wearing flip flops ( a bit fancier though) but the polish crisis has been fixed!!

Yay! Goodbye trashy, hello classy!!

Okay, now that that is out of the way, I layed in bed last night pondering about what I would post on Foodie Friday and was still pondering when I stopped on my way to work this morning at my every Friday morning stop.

Now, before I tell you what it is, I will say that this is a bit of a confession. I stop at said establishment almost every Friday, without fail. All other days of the week, I make my own cup of coffee at work, with fat free half and half and pure via sweetner, etc. I eat my yougurt, berries and Bare Naked Fit Granola and I lead a somehwat healthy breakfast eating life......but on Fridays.....................

Iced Coffee, extra Light, extra sweet Please!! Oh and the pink straw, hello??? How cute is that???

It's like my car will not drive past Dunkin Donuts on Friday. Every other day, it can, but not on Friday. This full cream, loaded with liquid sugar, sweet, yummy treat is my Friday downfall. I almost always go through the drive thru and I am not tempted by any of the sweets. I just get my coffee, in all its sweet glory and go......
But today, the drive thru line was very long, so I went in.........................

And low and behold,

PUMPKIN MUFFINS!!!!

Seriously people, it is not even October yet, it's still a million degrees outside in Florida, and now, I know that DD has pumpkin muffins.....in August......and I also know ( I'm not saying I do this every year and have experience or anything) that they will be in there until at least November................calling my name.....uggghhhh.

I just couldn't resist and oh it was good.....must use drive thru next time.......out of sight, out of mind...right??

ARE YOU TEMPTED???

DO YOU SPLURGE ONCE A WEEK?? WHAT IS YOUR FOOD WEAKNESS???

On a running note, Robin over at Running Circles Around The Turtles, has put together a Central Florida Bloggy Running meet up at Jason's Deli in Orlando. So excited to head over tomorrow and meet some new runners and bloggers!!

Also, right after the meet up, I am headed to finally get fitted for a new pair of Somnio, custom fit/taylored running shoes.....I am sooooooo excited. I know they are expensive, but I am praying that these shoes will be the answer to all of my imbalance issues and that they will lead me back to feeling good when I run!!!

I ran 2.0 miles at 10:30 pace.....My paces are all over the board right now, but I am running again, and that is what is important!!!
Happy Running,

Thrifty Thursday With A Cherry on Top!!!

2010-08-26T11:36:00.000-04:00

TAKE A GOOD LOOK AT THIS PICTURE!!

WHAT IS WRONG WITH THIS PICTURE???

No, silly, I always wear flip flops to work. Oh, accountants aren't supposed to do that??? I hopped in the car last night to go on a date with my hubby to the Jack Johnson concert ( which was awesome!! Took photos, but of course, forgot to bring the camera to work) , and I looked down to see the polish missing from several of my toes.......this is a big pet peeve of mine. Can't stand to go out somewhere and see someone with chipping toenail polish. Yuck!! As if feet aren't bad enough to look at ( just sayin!).....

Unfortunately, we were already running late, and we couldn't turn back.......DUH, DUH, DUH....... I was really embarrassed and tried to hide my toes all night....I mean, we all know that EVERYONE ( all 20,000) concert going fans were looking at my toes , not sultry, sexy, surfer singer-songwriter..... Jack Johnson, I mean really........

Anywho, so I guess you are asking what this has to do with Thrifty Thursday???
Well, I love to have my toes polished and pretty all of the time. But, obviously that is not working into my budget. This drove me to find a budget friendly way to get them done with a little less pampering (that's what my hubby's for, right??), but professionally, none the less...(cuz lets all agree that doing them yourself, just isn't the same).......

All of our local nail salons, offer the option of a nail polish change only, without the full pedicure.
The cost $7, and it usually lasts 2-3 weeks for me....I'd say, that is a bargain.!!!

You don't get as much pampering, but they do clip, file and buff....and that's enough for this girl!!! And I can get it done at lunchtime and still have time to eat lunch!! Yay! Even better!!! Guess where I'm headed in a few hours........

SO WHERE'S THE CHERRY ON TOP...???.....

Adorable Wife over at Training w/ a Track Coach and His Adorable Wife ( I know, how cute are they?? Seriously) Awarded me this week. I was one of the first blogs she followed and one of their first followers as well. She and her husband are awesome and both post to the blog, which makes it unique and interesting!! Head her way and by the way, Thanks! You are a sweetie!!

THE RULES:

#1 Answer this question: If you had the chance to go back and change one thing in your life, would you and what would it be?

#2 The second thing you have to do is, pick 6 people and give them this award. You then have to inform the person that they have gotten this award.

#3 The third and final thing is, thank the person who gave you the award.

MY ANSWERS:

#1 This one is hard because life has treated me very well over the years. I am blessed with a beautiful family, and amazing husband/partner/best friend , 2 handsome healthy boys and wonderful girlfriends. I have been lucky to hold good jobs and my hubby and I provide for our family well and are very happy....so not much I would change. The one thing I would change, would be to not have gone out running in Oklahoma in October 2009......that is what started my knee injury and the resulting shoulder and knee surgery that has kept me on the sidelines for over 9 months.....I always wonder...what if I'd just not run that day and actually taken a rest on vacation....................

#2 The 6 bloggers below have really impacted me in some way over the last year of blogging....so I am tagging them, and hoping that you head over to visit them and see just how wonderful they really are!

1) Morgan the Redhead......cuz she is just awesome. Although she recently moved out of my neck of the woods, and is dealing with an injury right now, she has been really supportive in my running journey.....love ya you cute little redhead!!

2) Robin at Running Circles Around The Turtles is such an inspiration. She lives close by and we have met up once, but I just love her motivational posts and her overall good vibe...........she always cheers me up when I am down!! Thanks Robin!!

3) Monica at Lick The Bowl Good. I have recently started following Monica and she has some amazing recipes and food ideas on her blog...Her pictures are awesome.....I mean awesome pictures of awesome homemade food, what more could a girl want??? Um, Monica.....anytime you want me to be a tester.....just ship the food...I'm here for ya girl!!

4) Mel at Tall Mom on The Run. You are an amazing woman!! Mel is having some personal/family struggles right now, but is always smiling and motivating those around her. She was one of the very first blogs I followed and has amazing energy and a great outlook on life!!!

5) Angie at Barefoot Angie Bee. Hello?? Doesn't the blog title say it all! She's amazing...she runs barefoot people....as in no shoes....and she posts about how it affects the rest of her life in a positive way.....love her honest and open style of writing and living......

6) B.O.B at Discom-bob-ulated Running, seriously hilarious!!! Entertainment at its finest and you get it daily!! Check her out for a good laugh .......her dog even posts from time to time!!!

Tag......You're IT!!!

#3 Done - I thanked The Adorable Wife above, but thanks again!!

Happy Running,

Why Can't They Make What's In My Head??

2010-08-24T12:52:00.000-04:00

So, what exactly am I talking about? Well, it has been about 3 1/2 years since we built our house and our rugs are starting to look a bit worn out, and I'm sick of the colors in my bedroom, etc......

I get bored easily ( so sue me) .......I want new rugs ( and I want them cheap), a tall order it seems.I also want new bedding and a new color on the bedroom walls. I need 2 rugs and I can envision them in my head......I absolutely hate when I do this and you would think that I would learn!! I always envision exactly how I want a room to look and then I go and try to find the stuff to put in it and it is always a FAIL!! I must have a vivid imagination, or maybe this is a sign that I should become a designer, as no one else designs what I want, and if they do, I cannot afford it!!

So, I continue to search the WWW for exactly what I've conjured up in this crazy head of mine, and still no luck....probably because of my need to save big and get a huge bargain on everything I buy!!!

Oh, well, it keeps me busy! I need another thing to keep me busy, like I need another hole in my head!

No what else keeps me busy???.................................................................................

RUNNING 2.1 MILES / AVG PACE 9:48
WOOT! WOOT!
And you thought I wasn't going to talk about running!?!

Ha! I know it is only 2.1 miles, but it is .1 miles more than the day before and a whole 31 sec faster per mile!! I am really trying to build up slowly and get a good base and stay injury free! I'll pprobably stick with 2 - 2.5 miles for another week or two and then try 3 miles.....although I am a bit impatient , so we will see. I would love to run a 5 K in October....There, I said it, that is my small goal ...........that I have been reluctant to say out loud for fear of failure, but I think I can do it!!!

Do you guys envision things in your head and get disappointed when you can't find them?? Or am I the only one???
Happy Running,

1st Day of School!!

2010-08-23T11:30:00.000-04:00

1st Day of 5th Grade for Thing One and 2nd Grade for Thing 2!!

As part of our family effort to go green this year and reduce our carbon footprint, I bought Arctic Zone Insulated Lunch Bags from Walmart and found Ziploc containers with 3 individual spaces for food that fit right inside the lunch bag. The lunch bags have a hard white insulated inside that keeps food from getting smooshed and keeps it cool . By using the Ziploc containers inside the bags, we will be using little to no baggies this year. Yay for us!! Here are the lunch bags and ziplocs I found!!!

I know the pictures aren't great, but the bag has an extra pocket on the outside for a drink and the lids for the Ziploc containers seal around each little hole so that the foods don't mix together!! They also come in a 2 pack!! So it was great for our family!!

Hope my little one's have a great day today!!!

BTW, I ran 2 miles yesterday. Average pace
10:23!!!
This was a little slower than I would like, but right now, I am just building up mileage , so I am happy!!

Off to PT in a few to get a crazy pilates/yoga style workout!!! She has been kicking my butt lately!!!

Happy Running,

1.65 MILES AND WHERE IN THE WORLD DID 2 WEEKS GO??

2010-08-19T11:20:00.001-04:00

So I just realized that it has been 2 weeks since my last post ....life has been crazy in our house!!

I have only run once since my last post but it was a record high since surgery......

1.65 miles/ avg pace 10:26

Here are the things that have been consuming my life in the past 2 weeks:

1) Monday the 9th - Did 30 minutes on the elliptical and my knees killed me for 2 days - not sure if my foot placement was wrong or what, but I wont be doing that again!!

2) Tues - 10th - knees killing me and I was at football practice with Thing 1 till 8:30PM, went straight from work. We now have Subway for dinner every Monday because no time to get home for dinner between work and practice.......

3) Wed - 11th -Hubby was doing after hours work ( he builds websites on the side) and I had kids with no chance of getting out of the house for a run!

4) Thursday 12th - I started coming down with something sinusy ( is that a word?) Felt like crap...Started cooking cake balls for my son's birthday. Wish I would have taken pictures but I felt like crap ( oh, did I already mention that??) . It's fairly labor intensive so I did not finish Thursday night and had to work on them again all night Friday night!!! I ended up with Lemon Cake Balls covered in White Chocolate and Red Velvet Cake Balls covered in Dark Chocolate....yummo!!

5) Saturday the 14th - Thing 1's Football Jamboree and then 25 people to my house for dinner to celebrate Aug/Sept birthdays in the family. Yes, we do this every 2 months or so.....all 25 of us, and it was my turn and I still felt like crap!! Oh, and I woke up at 6:45AM to put 2 huge Angus Beef Briskets in the oven (They turned out awesome so recipe will be coming soon)

6)Sunday - I slept until almost 11:00AM!! I cannot remember the last time I've done that, I was still not feeling well and was sooooooo exhausted. When I finally got up, I cleaned up my desk which was piled with tons of stuff that needed sorting and filing.......

7) Monday - I finally Ran!! I took my clothes so that I could run at my son's Football Practice....1.65 Miles!!

8) Woke up early (5:50AM) for Yoga in my living room
And Thing 1 Turned 10!! Yes, I cannot even believe that I have a 10 year old. He is really a good kid and I am sooooo proud of him in every way!!! He also had his first football game! His team was up 20-0 right before halftime. It started pouring rain/thunder/lightning.....waited in the car and then the other team forfeited! Yay! Our first game and it was a win!!

9) Wednesday, both kids woke up coughing, snotty, etc.....1 trip to the doctor, 5 Prescriptions and a full day off of work at home with them.......brings me to today.........

whew....I got tired typing that! No wonder I haven't posted lately!!

I have noticed a few new followers, so welcome! Always love new followers!!

I have not forgotten about a giveaway for my 1 year blogaversary and 100th post.....but as you can see I have been crazy busy!!

I am trying to get my schedule under control, kids go back to school Monday ( that actually means more craziness, as we then add in homework to the mix and more strict bedtime schedules) .

Does anyone else have issues trying to get it all in? Working full time and hubby working full time, after school practices, hubby working at night from home (on the side) and trying to run, exercise, and still going to PT. Oh, and I need to start studying for my 1st EA exam..??? Oh, yeah, probably all of you.....just trying to get a pity party going but I'm sure it's not working!!

Calendar out..........make a schedule and stick to it........that's what I need to do!!!

Happy Running,

FREEZER MEALS ON FOODIE FRIDAY!

2010-08-06T11:36:00.001-04:00

Wow, I just used the "f" word alot ( not THAT "f" word....come on guys...i"m bad, but not THAT bad)

My oldest son, Thing 2, just started little league football and will be having practices 2-3 days a week and games 1 day a week so our next few months are about to get super busy. I often find that during these spurts of busyness, our eating habits tend to turn south......so I am going to solve that problem before it occurs, with freezer meal cooking!!

This is gonna be a crazy, busy weekend, filled with non-stop cooking, that will result in about 25 various meals that my family can thaw and bake/throw in the crockpot, with basically no prep time!! Yay!!

I have done this on several occasions, so I have repeat recipes that we know and love and then I always try new recipes......

I found a fantastic website called ZIPLIST, that allows you to search the internet for recipes (or their site, they have 1000's) , and with a nifty downloaded tool, and a press of a button, the recipe is pulled from the site, sent to Ziplist and held in a "recipe box" . From the recipe box, you can send all of the ingredients to a grocery list that is automatically categorized by dept. for you. You can add in coupon info etc.....It is awesome!! Check it out. It is so great to have all of your recipes in one place!! The bonus is the mobile app so you don't have to print your list, it's on your phone with boxes to check things off as you get them!!!

On the menu for this weekend:
Old favorites:
Lasagna - recipe from the pasta box with a few tweaks
Shepherd's Pie - pretty basic, just a little of this and a little of that!
Cream Cheese Chicken

New recipes
Apple Roast Pork Sandwiches
Beef Stew
Chicken Taco Bake
Crockpot Black Bean Chili
Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup
Freezer Breakfast Burritos
Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Banana Oat Pancakes ( mix I got at World Market)
Pepperoni Pizza Puffs
Zesty freezable Pasta Salad

Wow, I think I might be a bit ambitious, but with a good plan, and a little organization, I think I can get it all done!!

I did 25 Minutes on the elliptical last night and burned 400 calories.....how does that work? I run for an hour and burn 100 calories.....something is not right in that math ( and I am an accountant!)!!!

Have a fantastic weekend! I'm shooting for 2 miles at some point this weekend!!

Don't go to Happy Runner and enter her SOMNIO GIVEAWAY HERE, cuz I really need these shoes and really want to win, like alot!!!!!!

Happy Running,

Thrifty Thursday!!

2010-08-05T14:46:00.000-04:00

This weekend (8/6 – 8/8), Sam’s Club will host a Nationwide Open House at their stores. Non-members will be able to shop at Sam’s Club for free and will not be required to pay the customary 10% service fee to make a purchase.

So for all of you back to school shoppers, or for those of you who have never had the Sam's experience.....head on in this weekend!! Also, they have college student memberships for just $15. Find a store near you HERE.

Want to do an art project with the kiddos,

but you are on a tight budget???

Head on over to Home Depot!

Here are the projects for August and September!!!!

How cute is this little pencil organizer?!

Such a great little project to get the kiddos motivated to go back to school!

I know my oldest son would love the football display as he just started little league tackle football this week!!

On a workout note, I was introduced to ..........The Chair!!

Nope, I wasn't in trouble and sent to time out, just another Pilate's device to get these legs stronger! Have I told you guys that I love my PT ( oh, yes, I have....about a 1000 times) . After telling her about yesterday's post HERE, and telling her that I want a real world (can be done anywhere, anytime, without machines) workout because I don't always have access to all of these great machines, she offered to go to the running loop with me, as one of my sessions, and teach me a few things that are safe for me right now.....I will eventually be adding in all of the great ideas you guys sent my way!!! Yay!

Happy Running,

Creative Fitness Challenge....Help a Sister out!

2010-08-04T10:51:00.000-04:00

I have found a really nice 1 mile loop running trail near my work. Now I live in flat, hot, humid Central Florida, so when I say "really nice", there is no reason to get all excited and do back flips....it's all relative here......It is about 1/3 shady and 2/3 completely blistering hot. It has some pretty scenery, a pond and trees

and it has a bathroom

and picnic tables I can use to gobble down my lunch after spending most of my lunch hour running/walking.

What it also has are fitness stations. some are a bit broken, and none of them have any instruction. But I love the idea of stopping to do different exercises and creating a full body workout in what little lunchtime I have.

Here is what they have, now remember, these are spread out sporadically throughout the mile. I am going to number them because I have a challenge for all of my running/fitness bloggy buddies so keep reading!!!

Benches, and quite a few of them!

2 of these

1 of these....all I can think is fireman??

Bars across the top ( monkey style) and going diagonally down the side.

and 1 of these, yep, a very short, very steep hill in the middle of Central Fl.....soooo man made!!!

Parallel bars that are not so parallel, because 1 is totally missing!!! There is only a bar on 1 side!

Your challenge you ask???? Help me come up with a full body workout utilizing any or all of these gadgets along my 1 mile route. Now, I know most of you know that at the moment my shoulder and knee may limit some of the exercises I can do. But for this challenge, let's pretend I have no limitations at all (because one day, I won't!) How was that for positive thinking??

I will eventually (as my body allows) work all of your ideas into a really cool 45 minute full body workout!! Don't be shy, let me hear it! Doesn't matter how crazy it is. I obviously know, and do, some of the ordinary basics that make common sense on these gadgets already, but give it a whirl, be creative and put all of that awesome fitness knowledge to work. I need your help!

Once I sort through all of those creative responses (cuz I know there will be tons, right???) And you can use the #'s above the pictures to let me know which fitness gadget you are referring to...... I will share my 45 minute workout with anyone and everyone who will read it! Just in case you have access to something similar near you!!!

Happy Running,

A Double Celebration Day!!!

2010-08-03T09:51:00.000-04:00

HAPPY 12TH ANNIVERSARY

TO THE LOVE OF MY LIFE!!

Sunday was my twelth Anniversary. We actually didn't do anything major but are planning dinner, sans kids this Wednesday at a really neat new place near us called the Red Door.
A little back story...................Hubby and I met at Duke University. We were in the same Psychology class, which was right after Weight Training for me. I always had on my little workout shorts and hubby noticed my legs back then ( so he says....and yes, they were much more shapely than now!). We were told about a semester long project and given about 6-8 topics to choose from. We were supposed to pick our top 3 topics and then we would later be put into groups to do these projects. Hubby, being the sly dog that he is, waited for me to choose my 3 topics, then went up and looked at what I turned in, and made his match mine, he thought this might guarantee that he was in my project group all semester......well, he was right and the rest was history.............................
( excuse the quality of the photos, I took pictures of pictures with my cell phone...remember, no digital photography back in "the old days" haha)

A college formal....we look so young, and my eyebrows were out of control!!

The night he proposed!!

Our wedding party ( the girls)

Cutting the cake!

Love this First Married Kiss Photo!!

My hubby is the most amzing man on Earth ( sure, I'm a bit biased). He is sooooo supportive of everything that I do. He supports my midlife career changes, my need to live in FL ( although we would rather be in NC) near my family while his family is spread out in the Western side of the US. He supports my running, exercising, and my need to have change whenever I get bored....which is always!! He is sensitive, sweet, caring, loving and soooooo helpful.

Our home is a definate partnership, where we share the work equally. Whether it's cleaning, laundry, making lunches, kid's practices, he always offers to help and really tries his best to make my life easier!! I take that for granted often, but deep down I know how lucky I am to have such an amazing, man, lover and father to my children in my life.

He truly is my rock........He makes my world better than it could ever be without him. I hope after 12 years of marraige, and almost 15 years together, he knows how very much he means to me and how very much I love him to pieces!!! Here's to many more years of happiness and marital bliss together baby!!!

So what's the Double Party for?????

HAPPY 1ST ANNIVERSARY BUSYRUNNINGMAMA.COM

Yep, my friends, today marks the 1 year anniversary of this here blog!! Exactly one year ago, I started this blog with my first post HERE, and so started what I though would be a year of major accomplishments in running. I signed up for my first Half Marathon, my first weekend of back to back runs, and my first 10K......none of which happened. I injured my knee while running in OK on vacation and for 9 1/2 months I was not able to run. I also got shoulder surgery during this time and tried to rehab my knee. I ended up with knee surgery too. Add in 3 months of tax season ( i'm a full time accountant) and there was a lapse of blogging for a while. I became pretty down during this time and felt like I would never come back and be the runner that I wanted to be......
Fast forward to today, It has been 1 year, 2 surgeries, and very little running, but this running blog is still here. I am starting to feel like myself again! I have lost some readers along the way, which is understandable, but I am excited about my future and the future of this blog!! I appreciate all of my bloggy buddies who have stuck with me along the way.

On a very exciting note, my Awesome PT has cleared me for 2 miles now, so this week I will be adding to my 1 mile ( which I have been consitently running between a 9:20-and10:00 pace.....I am very excited, but a bit nervous!!! I will let you know, I may brave the heat on my lunch hour and try to get a bit in today!

I am working on a giveaway for the blogs anniversary! It is a bit hard, when you are not a superstar blogger that comapnies send stuff to, cuz you have to be craetive and spend your own money for giveaways, but I am working on something that will hopefully be good....stay tuned for that!!

Don't go to Happy Runner and enter her SOMNIO GIVEAWAY HERE, cuz I really need these shoes and really want to win, like alot!!!!!!

Happy Running,

Stay tuned...Anniversary Blog

2010-08-02T11:38:00.000-04:00

Happy 12th Anniversary to me! Due to the fact that I got married before digital photography really took off, I have to scan my photos to do a post! And sadly I have to find the photos first........

Let's just say 12 years and counting and I will give my Anniversary it's proper spotlight tonight!!! Stay tuned! I also have a 1 year Blogaversary tomorrow! Wow!! Craziness!!!

Somnio Giveaway

In the meantime, I made over $300 at my garage sale Saturday so permission has been granted to buy my Somnio's!! Yay! But then I saw this Somnio giveaway by the Happy Runner...Imagine if I won, I could spend my money on other great running stuff and get the shoes free! Woot Woot....I'm sending you Here, but just look, marvel and exit....Cuz I want to win!!! Haha!!!

See ya tonight!!
Happy Running,

Thrifty Thursday....Who's up for discounted Running Gear??

2010-07-29T14:51:00.000-04:00

Happy Thrifty Thursday!!

Found a few great deals out there on running gear. Now, you can go direct to the websites via my links OR
you can become a member at EBATES ( I did a post on this a few weeks ago HERE) for an even better deal on these already fabulous finds!!!

I WILL START WITH NIKE.............................
Who here is addicted to Nike Tempo Running Shorts??? It was one of my favorites in my 100th post yesterday!! If you haven't tried them, please do, they are fabulous and I have never in my life used Body Glide or any anti chafing product, so they must be working for me!!!

NIKE has an amazing deal on the tempo shorts :

These are on sale for $15.97 in 3 colors.....reg.$ 28.00

and their Dri Fit Tanks, which are a must in this Florida heat

This is $13.97 and comes in 6 awesome colors.......reg. 20.00

If you go to Nike through ebates , you will get an extra 6% back.
Nike also is offering free shipping with every order over $100. Check it out!!

NEXT UP, IS THE REI OUTLET. THEY HAVE SOME GREAT DEALS THIS WEEK TOO!!

Some of the sizes are limited, but all of these are under $20.....................

Moving Comfort Cameo Bra.........$19.93.....Reg. 35.00

Brooks PR Shorts.......$17.93....Reg. $40.00

Pearl Izumi Infinity Split Shorts....$19.93......Reg. 38.00

Banana Blitz GU Sports gels - 24pk - $19.93....Reg. 32.40

Pearl Izumi Tri Top.......19.93 ......Reg. $40

Again, If you shop through EBATES, you get an extra 3% cash back.
REI Outlet is offering free shipping on orders over $75.

Hope this helps!
As for me, I am doing the thrifty job of holding a garage sale this weekend to try to rid myself of extra junk around the house! Mama always said "one man's junk is another man's treasure!" I love garage sale, but don't love to host them!! Oh well! Maybe I will make enough cash to head down and get myself fitted for those very coveted Somnio's I've had my eye on.......I need them to help deal with all of my imbalance issues!!! Wish me luck!
Happy Running,

100th Post!!!

2010-07-28T11:41:00.001-04:00

In celebration of my 100th post ( are you hearing the music and seeing the confetti?) , I am going to give you the 100th post tradition of 100 things about Tobi / busyrunningmama....If you aren't in for the long haul, just stop here and catch me for Thrifty Thursday tomorrow.........If anyone is still reading.....here we go......

I might steal a few ideas from the REDHEAD 'S 100th post, but hey, at least I give her credit......But I think she actually "jacked" it from Aron......such bloggy sharing love....

10 Things about my past :
1) I was born and raised in Florida and still live here.
2) I was born in 1975 ( yes, I am 35 and a Pisces!)
3) I am the youngest of 2 girls and I love my oldest sister with all of my heart! Although we fought like crazy when we were young!
5) I played youth softball and was a little league, middle school, and high school cheerleader.
6) I graduated from High School in 1993 and college in 1997.
7) I went to college at Duke University in NC, and to this day, I dream of living in the NC mountains one day ( one can dream, right??)
8) Since college, I have been a Restaurant Manager ( that totally sucked!), an Auto Insurance Claims Adjuster, A Special Investigator for fraudulent auto claims, A Pharmaceutical Rep, and now I am working to take over my father's accounting business when he retires. He bought it from my grandfather so it has been in the family for 30-40 years.....no pressure......
9) I got married at the age of 23, to the love of my life and this weekend is our 12th Anniversary and we have been together 15 years in October.
10) I lived in OK for 9 months after I got married, cuz that's where hubby is from and he had a good job at the time.....and I was just out of college.

10 Places I have been/traveled:
I'll preface this one with a back story....Hubby and I have decided to try to travel to a different state every year for our Anniversary, sans kids, so that when we have been married 50 years, we will have been to all 50 states....Now, I have to admit, some years we will have to skip out because the funds or the time off is just not happening, but we are trying.......
1) Oklahoma ( where hubby's from)
2) California ( Where hubby's sister lives)
3) Colorado ( Where hubby's brother lives)
4) Florida ( obviously)
5) North Carolina ( we both went to school there and go to Blowing Rock every year!)
6) New York ( went to NYC for our 5th Anniversary)
7) Vermont (stayed in a B&B, in the middle of nowhere for our Anniversary)
8) Georgia ( Savannah, when I was pregnant with Thing 1- )
9) Montana ( OMG, soooooo amazing - This was our 10 year anniversary trip. Stayed at an All Inclusive Ranch, if you are interested in an amazing "Out West" trip...check out Triple Creek Ranch! Probably one of the most amazing places on Earth!!!
10) Telum, Mexico ( our Honeymoon!)

10 Songs on my "Tobi's Run" Ipod play list
1) "You're a Jerk" by New Boyz......Love this one, just don't sing aloud while running because people give you the stink eye....just sayin!
2) "Dazzy Duks" by Duice.....Yes, I went there....
3) " Fergalicious" by Fergie
4) "Pocketful of Sunshine" by Natasha Bedingfield
5) "Womanizer" by Britney Spears....sorry, but it has a good beat...
6) "In da Club" by 50 cent
7) "Lady Marmalade" by christina Aguilera, Lil Kim
8) " Put your records on" by Corrine Bailey Rae
9) " Promiscuous" by Nellie Furtado
10) "Everybody" by Misdemeanor

Okay, so can you tell I like to shake my groove thang!! You would never know from that list that I am a HUGE fan of all things country music!! I also love, love, love Tyrone Wells, if you like acoustical, soulful, rock ( not country at all),.....he is amazing!!! Take a listen.....

10 Things About My Personality:

1) I am very Giving
2) I am Stubborn
3) I am a Control Freak ( Bossy is what my friends call it...I think they are wrong of course)LOL!!
4) I am Low Maintenance
5) I am an Overachiever
6) I am Touchy/feely/huggy it's the Latin blood!, we don't shake hands, we hug!!)
7) I am emotional ( at times)
8) I am loving
9) I am Genuine
10) I am proud ( of my family and my accomplishments)

10 Things I love:
1) Nike Tempo Running Shorts....I'm obsessed
2) Hugs
3) Jeans ( my favorite, but not always doable in the Fl heat)
4) The Mountains
5) Food and cooking
6) Entertaining
7) Dresses
8) Sour Gummy Life Savers
9) My Keurig One cup Coffee Maker ( Love, Love, Love)
10) Fresh flowers, gardens, and all things nature!

WE ARE HALFWAY THERE!!

10 Reasons why I run/exercise:
1) I'm not getting any younger, but trying to look like it
2) Stress Relief ( 2 boys 7 and 9....enough said)
3) For the high ( I have NEVER done drugs, gotta get it somewhere)
4) For slimmer saddle bags ( notice I didn't say to get rid of the saddlebags...I mean do they really ever go completely away?? I for one, would not know.....)
5) For a Healthy Body
6) For self confidence....which leads to .....
7) A better sex life ( hubby likes this one....sorry TMI)......and
8) Happiness
9) To inspire people around me......to encourage others to join in.....
10) To set a good example for my children

10 Foods I LOVE

1) Pizza/calzones/stromboli
2) Pasta
3) Starbuck's Carmel Machiatto Ice Cream
4) Sour Gummy Lifesavers
5) Chips and Queso ( especially from Chili's....wouldn't share when I was preggo...order your own I say)
6) Mac and Cheese
7) Corn Pudding
8) MEAT
9) Salads....all kinds....love, love, love salad!!
10) Bread

10 Foods I HATE (some may surprise you)

1) Pickles ( who doesn't like pickles?, I feel very alone on this one)
2) Mayo ( which includes all salads made with it ...pasta salad, tuna salad...etc)
3) Brussel Sprouts ( bad memories of sitting at the table, long after dinner was over, trying to figure out how to eat the 1 brussel sprout I had to eat to leave the table...)
4) Mustard
5) Olives
6) ONIONS.... I even strain jarred spaghetti sauce.....I know...so ridiculous!! Everything has onions in it!!!
7) Pumpernickel bread/ Rye bread....yuck
8) Salsa..... it goes back to the Onions....also hate...
9) Cilantro
10) "greens" ....I am from the South, but I just can't do it......

10 Things I am Most Thankful For

1) My Mom and Dad....They brought me into this world and have supported me every step of the way, such fantastic role models, for me, my marriage ( They will celebrate 40 years this year) , and my children.
2) My Sister - Love her soooooo much!
3) My Hubby - My rock, the love of my life, the most amazing man on Earth. He really does complete me and I can't imagine my life without him in it!
4) My Children - Just beautifully rotten boys! They are my World!! They make me laugh ( and scream, and cry sometimes!!) , But I would not trade being a mother for anything!!!
5) My Job - Working for my father has been such a blessing. We have only gotten closer and it is amazing to see how proud he is of me and how much he trusts his business in my hands!
6) My Girlfriends - By BFF from high school Shani, and my BFF from College, Kimberly. These 2 women have been there for me for years and we are like sisters, no matter how much time passes, we pick up right where we left off, I am soooooo thankful they are in my life. Also, for all of the friends I have picked up along the way....I love, love, love my girlfriends and each and every one is special in their own way.
7) Neighbors - Since building our home 3 years ago, we have met so many people in our new neighborhood and continue to do so. I n my last neighborhood I had amazing friends also....I still keep in touch even though a few have moved all over the country!!
8) The ability to Run and stay active ( with 2 minor surgical set backs).
9) My PT. She really is amazing and I am sooooo glad I found her! I will get back to my old active running self sooner. rather than later, with her as part of the equation!
10) My Life. It is so full and rich. Full of family, togetherness, love, stability, happiness........

10 Things I Love to do:

1) Date night with Hubby/ Family Quality Time
2) Watch TV ( I am addicted and have 2 DVR's)
3) Eat
4) Exercise/Run
5) Travel
6) Shop ( and find a big bargain!!)
7) Cook/Bake
8) Make Jewelry
9) Entertain ( including decorations, homemade invites, etc)
10) Blogging

That's 100 Folks!!!!

If you are still with me, you are one of the handful of my faithful followers. For that, I thank you. Each and every follower is important to me. This has been a very rough year for me. With 9 months on the sidelines, 2 surgeries, a ton of pain and rehab, and a blog that has only been around for a week shy of a year......It has not been easy to get or keep followers, due to my lack of blogging ( or lack of blogging about running) during this tough time. Thanks for hanging with me, thanks for your support and thanks for the bloggy love!! You guys rock!!! If you think that someone would enjoy my blog, give me a shout out. I will be basically starting from scratch with my running so any new runners or beginners may want to follow!!!

Stay tuned for my Blogaversary next week!! .....I might have a giveaway....hint, hint........

Happy Running,

Promised Pictures, Sunrise Salutations, and More Miles...

2010-07-26T22:15:00.001-04:00

As promised, I am going to start with pictures from our trail walk at Circle B Reserve a week and a half ago, yes it HAS been that long, but I finally got the pics from hubs phone!! Enjoy!

The uneven ground along the trail was a challenge for my knee,

but I made it over 3 miles!

The boys made it the full 3 miles also!!

"Alligator Alley" runs along abeautiful big lake with a nice breeze!!

The past week has been busy again.......Here is what I have accomplished exercise wise:

I learned an 8 minute yoga sequence called Sunrise Salutation. My wonderful PT says I am a natural, who would have thunk. This is my first attempt at any type of yoga and I am already loving it. I have done it every day and I also did a 20 minute yoga session on Exercise On Demand called " Zen in the Den", pretty basic, but for this beginner, it was perfect!!

I had 2 PT session last week with much more work on the Reformer and the Tower. My core is getting stronger and my body more flexible!! yay!

I ran 1 mile twice last week!! The first was at just under 11 min/mile, BUT the second was at 9:23!! Woot! Woot! I am going to continue doing 1 mile for right now and not push too much with this rehab. I will be happy when I can consistantly do 1 mile at about 9:00 to 9:30 pace every time and I will start adding miles in a few weeks. So, I'm thinking a 5K in October?? Sounds silly, but sooooooo exciting for me......

I biked 5.25 miles on Sunday, then shopped all day with my mom!! I was riding at just over 11mph, that seems very slow to me. I am only up to gear 4 of 7 and that is still hard for me. ...Hopefully the speed will come with time....I am also riding a walmart bike that is not made for speed ( duh, that could be the problem....)

A few weeks ago, on Thrifty Thursday, I talked about scoring some great deals at Groupon on tickets to our local Arena Football Game..........................And we went on Saturday night!!

GO Tampa Bay Storm.............................

The boys had a blast, there were dancers ( which Thing 2 loved), a DJ ( which Thing 1 loved ) and the best Arena football team in the world ( which we all loved) !! We had a fantatstic time!!!

Don't look at the muffin top... Holy cow, I really need to lose these 8 pounds......

As if my belly rolling over my jeans wasn't enough, My son asked if he could take a picture of me with my hubby's cell phone, "Sure" I say....little did I know that this is what he was up to.........

Wow.......If that isn't enough to make me workout everyday, I don't know what is........

Don't worry, I not only made him gain weight, I made him old too!! Fun for the whole family, those silly

Iphone Apps!!

**********By the way, this is my 99th post.....1 post from 100 and one week away from my 1year blog anniversary. I am sure that means I should do an amazing giveaway for this here blogs Birthday/100th post...... Stay tuned, I'll have something cooked up by next week*********************

Happy Running,
Tobi

Foodie Friday!

2010-07-23T19:00:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone! It is Foodie Friday and because I missed Thrifty Thursday, you are in for a combo!!

Although I always promote the farmer's markets, CSA's and local growers as a first choice for fresh fruits and veggies, it is inevitable that we all end up at the grocery store!! And, as you know, I am all about a deal. So what better thing to save money on than food?? The food that we blog about, the food that fuels our runs, and the food that nourishes our bodies and the bodies of our loved ones.

I used to spend a ton of time matching up the weekly ads for my local grocery store, with the printable internet coupons and the coupons that I cut from the local Sunday papers. But I have got it down to a system. It usually takes me an hour at home and at least and hour at the grocery store, not too bad.Most grocery stores accept competitor coupons and allow a manufaturer coupon to be used with a store/competitor coupon, thus giving you the benefit of 2 coupons on 1 item. Some stores have double coupon days! There is so much to learn! The good news is that as we love to blog about running, others love to blog about couponing........

I follow some great blogs that do alot of the grunt work for me and I end up getting my groceries at 40-60% off every week!! yay for food and for savings!! Yay for coupon bloggers!!

A great blog to start you off is Be Centsable . This blog has a grocery gathering section that gives all of the weekly ads for many stores nation wide!! It will tell you the sale prices and will tell you what coupons you can use in combination with the sales. Some of the coupons will be printable with a link, others will come from other sources that they will list. Another reason this site is so great, is because they have a whole section on getting started with couponing HERE. They also have online workshops HERE.

So I know that you think that this whole couponing thing will take up too much time and may cut into your running time.But just think, for all of you guys on a budget, of all the money you will save on the food you eat that can now be spent on great new running outfits, entry fees, etc.........are ya following me ladies?? ( and gents) ??

Did you actually hear that?......enough money to buy new running stuff...is it worth the time now?? You decide?? I think so!

It takes a few trips to get it down to a system, But I tell ya what , you will be saving a ton of money in no time. I am at about $300-$400 a month in savings, and I have a great stockpile of basics (canned goods, toiletries, cereal, etc) that I got at huge discounts!!! Some even free! Heck, they even paid me to take some of these items out of the store ( that is called a "money maker" my friends)!! Who knew you could make money while grocery shopping! Holla!

So give it a try, pledge to use 5 coupons this weekend at the grocery store, or on your next trip. Use the grocery gatherer at Be Centsable. Try it out! I promise, the first time you see your savings at the bottom of the receipt, you will get excited that that money is still in your wallet!!

Here is a picture of one of my receipts. Look at the 2 circled numbers. The top is what I spent, the bottom is what I saved - pretty much 50% - and that is for just one week ( I have 2 boys and a hubby, hate to see my bill in 5 years when the boys are teens....)

Let me know what kind of deals you score!!
Happy Running,

Not Feeling Thrifty Today!

2010-07-22T16:58:00.000-04:00

I know it's Thrifty Thursday, but I just don't feel good!
It's either too much fiber or I'm bleeding internally.....just kiddin....but my belly is killing me!!

I will see ya on the flip side for Foodie Friday!

BTW........................

I Ran 1 mile last night!!! I actually ran 1.64 miles but I ran 1 mile without stopping!!! It was only at pace 11:15, but I did it!! Yay for running!!

Okay, all that excitement made my belly hurt more......I'm outta here!!
Happy Running,

Crazy Busy!!

2010-07-21T15:00:00.000-04:00

Life, since last Friday has been crazy busy!! So, I'm making a list ( don't have time to check it twice) so here goes......................
Here is what busyrunningmama has done since I posted last Friday:

1) Took the kids to a Japanese steakhouse for dinner Friday night! The "Chef" who cooks in front of you, knew no tricks....What the hell? I have kids, they like tricks, get with it dude.... I actually told him that he needed to learn some tricks and to start practicing ( that did not embarrass my 9 ( almost 10 year old) at all).

2) Mowed the yard, pulled the weeds, and planted a pot by the front door and an herb garden under my oak tree....with a trip to Lowes somewhere in between. Have caught a little squirrel chewing on my bell pepper plant leaves twice since I planted it.....ugghhhh.....

3) Spent 1.5 hours cutting coupons for my 1.5 hour grocery trip. Sounds like a long time, but I do this weekly and it saves my family $90-$125 every week!! yay for coupons!!

4) Had the neighborhood kid over to the spend the night with Thing 2. They are 2 wild boys when they get together!! They had a blast. Thing 2 has discovered quite a few kids his age in the neighborhood recently, I think it's fabulous, great neighborhood friends are just a great part of growing up....Do you remember your neighborhood friends?? Was there one house you always went to, or did you rotate??

5) Cleaned my office bright and early Sunday morning.. grabbed Subway for lunch for a porch picnic ( it's shadier and less buggy say Thing 1) with the family, and then headed to Circle B Bar Reserve for a 3 mile trail walk with hubby and the kids!! ( Pictures to come, the only available camera was hubby's phone and he hasn't emailed them to me yet!) This Reserve is really the most scenic set of trails we have anywhere near me. The ground is a bit uneven, so it was a challenge for me with the knee, but I made it and so did the kids! We saw 1 alligator, 1 black snake, a ton of spiders on their webs, a beautiful Cardinal, a ton of other birds and a bunch of butterflies!!

6) Monday and Tuesday were crazy with work and I had PT Monday at lunchtime and had to run a ton of errands Tuesday at lunchtime.....It's crazy trying to fit it all in and still work full time!!

7) Saturday, I walked/ran 2.85 miles - I ran 5 minutes, twice, at an 8:57/mile pace - ended up running 1.18 miles total - I'm getting there......, Monday morning I biked 4.25 miles!!

8) Sunday, I swam....Or maybe I should say I didn't drown, because I'm not sure I could call it swimming!! I always thought I was a good swimmer, but what I realize now, was that I was a good player in the water without drowning..............I am great at swimming under water, doing flips, dives, etc, but I don't think I ever learned how to swim, as in strokes, as in laps, as in wear goggles and workout....
Wow! What a workout. I was wearing my seven year old's camo goggles that are 3 sizes too small for me and I managed to stay in the pool ( my neighbors- she wasn't home, but her hubby was and I am sure he was laughing hysterically at me from inside) for 25 minutes.

9) Got home from "swimming" and took a shower, and went out to lay on the hammock under our large oaks! It was breezy and beautiful and I actually fell asleep for 30 minutes ( very unlike me) ....Amanda, I am counting this as meditation if you are reading!! Went back out yesterday and laid there and concentrated on breathing for 5 minutes...A little me time!!

So now you know why I haven't blogged.....Oh the craziness that this busyrunningmama has going on sometimes!!!

Happy Running,

Foodie Friday! CSA's

2010-07-16T11:53:00.000-04:00

So, I was reading all of your blogs yesterday and I read a post from ROBIN ( if you don't follow her, you should, she is full of wisdom, motivation and just darn sweet!!) , her post was all about Community. It was a great post and really resonated with me. Being on the injured list for 9 months has really kept me away from the running community and I am very eager to get back, especially after that post!! In the meantime, I have been working hard to reduce my carbon footprint, save money, support local businesses, etc, etc.....(all things you can do while injured on the sidelines)......

For Foodie Friday, I decided to stick with Robin's community theme and talk a bit about CSA's. Am I the only one who didn't really know what a CSA was until about a week ago?? I promise I don't live under a rock, but living in Polk County, I always assume that whatever anyone else is raving about, will not apply to me, because I wont find it in my small town.....I was wrong ( well, kind of)

CSA

Community Supported Agriculture

Am I peaking any interest for all you health nuts out there, anyone?? Or, do you already know all about it and I am living in the dark ages and just decided to make an appearance today???

CSA allows city residents to have direct access to high quality, fresh produce grown locally by regional farmers.
When you become a member of a CSA, you’re purchasing a “share” of vegetables from a regional farmer. Weekly or bi-weekly, from June until October or November, your farmer will deliver that share of produce to a convenient drop-off location in your neighborhood.
CSA members pay for an entire season of produce upfront. This early bulk payment enables your farmer to plan for the season, purchase new seed, make equipment repairs, and more.
Shares usually include 7-10 types of vegetables, enough for a family of 2-3 people. Most CSAs also offer half shares for smaller households.
Many CSAs also offer the option of other produce from local farms. For a few extra dollars a week, in addition to your vegetables, you can add fruit, eggs, meat, and even flowers to your order.

I think this is a fantastic idea and after some research, I found a site that lists CSA's in the US and also farms where you can just go to buy produce if you don't want to commit to a CSA. Go to Local Harvest for more info and to find more CSA's near you.

I found 2-5 within 30 minutes ( not in my town, but a close enough drive to reap the benefits, who knew??)!! I have emailed them and I am awaiting info so that I may pick the one that suits my family best. This is a fantastic way to support local farmers and provide my family with fresh, organic produce.

Are any of you a part of a CSA program in your area? Can you give me any feedback, thoughts, etc??

Happy Running,

Thrifty Thursday! Group Buying......

2010-07-15T08:54:00.000-04:00

THRIFTY THURSDAY!

GROUP BUYING....................

Can we all get a better deal by making purchases together?

That's the idea behind a new breed of "group buying" Web sites -- at least one of which may be valued at more than $1 billion. GROUPON, which traces its origins back to 2008, has a simple premise: If enough people agree to buy something, they all get a big discount.

Have any of you heard of these sites?? Well, I've been getting emails from GROUPON for several months and I got an amazing deal this week!! One for the whole family to enjoy!! Check this out:

I scored Tampa Bay Storm ( local Arena football team) tickets for $18!! The tickets include a hot dog and soda/beer. The value is about 65% off. This normally would have cost our family over $200 for four of us, and instead , I paid $72!! Yay for family night!!!

Now GROUPON is not available in all cities but they are adding more every day AND some of the deals are for web based companies, so you could technically follow all cities and get some great deals!!!

This is a perfect way to try out new restaurants, spas, and attractions in your area at a fraction of the cost!! And I know we are all trying to save in this lovely economy!!

Another site that I am a member of, that has the same premise is......LIVING SOCIAL

Try them out for yourself and let me know if you score any really great deals!!!

*****************************************************
Now for those of you who hate to track things down on the net, hate to get daily emails, and hate joining the above type groups, here's a quick coupon you can print to try out McDonald's ( I know, I know.......you are all healthy.....) new Fruit Smoothies. I know they aren't as healthy as the one's we might make at home, all you green machine drinkers know who I'm talking to, BUT, for $1.29, after the COUPON.....it's worth a try ! Especially if you are in a bind and need a quick snack or something to tide you over.... I haven't tried them yet, but I printed my coupon so that I can!!

THE SMALL 12OZ. SIZE HAS 210 CALORIES / 5G FAT..........NOT TOO BAD

Happy Running,

Knee Report and Working Out!!

2010-07-14T12:04:00.000-04:00

I am happy to report that I went to my knee surgeon for a 2 month follow up yesterday and.....................

HE WAS SURPRISED WITH MY PROGRESS AND GAVE ME FREE REIGN AT ACTIVITY ( WITHIN REASON)!!!!!

Now don't get too excited ( I had to tell myself that, I mean, come on people, I haven't REALLY run in 9 months and I'm chompin at the bit), I am still under the care of my awesome PT, and I am taking it slow, as to build the correct muscles around my hips, so that I don't re injure in the future........

The bad news is that my shoulder is still hurting! But, we have narrowed it down to bicep tendinitis at the insertion point into the shoulder. Doc says that if I can push through the pain now ( and he said it was okay to do that, as I will not injure it further by doing so) , with increased mobility and strength in the shoulder, the bicep tendon should heal itself....so I guess it's time to put on my big girl panties, and just deal with the pain, because I am more than ready to be done with all of these injuries!!!!

My PT called, I haven't seen her in 3 weeks ( wow, I can't believe it's been that long!!) We were both on vacation and they overlapped.......She will do a full reassessment of both my knee and shoulder tomorrow and we will come up with a new plan going forward to get me going!! Yay!! It looks like everyone is on board.....cannot wait to run my first 5K back after injuries...maybe I should start looking for one.....gonna discuss that with PT tomorrow as far as what kind of timeline I'm looking at.

I am finding that as I get back out there and run, I am concentrating on every step, making sure I plant my foot correctly and that my right knee is facing straight ahead ( instead of inward) , it makes running much harder for me when I have to concentrate.....I also am finding that I am not suffering from knee pain while running ( yay!), but cardiovascularly(not sure that's a word - haha), I am WAY OUT OF SHAPE !!! Ugghhhh...That is what 9 months of no exercise will do for ya!!

The good news is that I am motivated and have come up with a new workout schedule.....Right now there are not times, paces, or set mileage......I am just setting myself up to get out there and do stuff....anything, to get me back in shape...... Here is what it looks like: By the way, I started this last week and gained 4 LBS ......WTH????

Monday - 5:30AM - knee shoulder exercises and 30 minute walk/run
                Noon - PT

Tuesday - 5:30AM - knee/shoulder exercises and 30 min biking
                NOON - walk at lunchtime
               -evening - abs and ball for legs

Wednesday - 5:30 AM - knee/shoulder exercises and 30 min walk/run

Thursday - 5:30AM - knee/shoulder exercises and 30 min bike
                  Noon - PT

Friday - NOON - walk

Saturday and Sunday - family time and walk/run each day...........

So, I have a plan and I hope the schedule will say 30 minute run ( without the walk) before too long.....Thanks for hanging in with me and for all of the support! You guys rock!!!

Happy Running,

Foodie Friday and Not Yo Mama's Recipe!

2010-07-09T13:09:00.000-04:00

Yep, you heard it, it's Foodie Friday! Yet another thing about me that you may not know. I love, love, love to cook and love to try new recipes. I also love to entertain!! I don't even need a good excuse to invite a bunch of people over for dinner!

I also pride myself on having kids who are not picky and eat very well. Actually, yesterday, I picked them up from camp and I was tired and said we could pick something up for dinner on the way home. Anything but Mcdonalds.......I gave them options....Wendy's, Woody's BBQ, Fazoli's, Boston Market.......do you know what they said....."mom, don't we have food at home...can we just go home and eat?" Now who's kids do that??? I was shocked!! So, even though I had no desire to cook dinner or even open a can of Chef Boy R DEE ( don't hate...I know its terrible for them, but sometimes it happens)....I drove them home and made them dinner!!

I digressed, anyway, today starts my new Foodie Friday post and I am gonna start with a recipe...It's not yo mama's recipe, it's not even MY mama's recipe, but it is some kind of good ( no, not for you) , just plain good!!

I will start with the fact that it is a Paula Deen recipe ( so for all you uber healthy eating fanatics who never , ever cheat....just stop reading and catch me on Monday).......Bueller? Bueller? Is anyone still out there????

This recipe is a southern classic, but I swear it has crack in it because every time I make it, every one raves and says it's the best they've ever had ....so here goes

Not Yo Mama's Banana Pudding ( it's better, I promise)

Recipe courtesy Paula Deen

Prep Time: 30 min Inactive Prep Time:

Easy Serves: 12 servings

Ingredients

2 bags Pepperidge Farm Chessmen cookies

6 to 8 bananas, sliced

2 cups milk

1 (5-ounce) box instant French vanilla pudding

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened

1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk

1 (12-ounce) container frozen whipped topping thawed, or equal amount sweetened whipped cream

Directions

Line the bottom of a 13 by 9 by 2-inch dish with 1 bag of cookies and layer bananas on top.

In a bowl, combine the milk and pudding mix and blend well using a handheld electric mixer.

Using another bowl, combine the cream cheese and condensed milk together and mix until smooth. Fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Add the cream cheese mixture to the pudding mixture and stir until well blended.

Pour the mixture over the cookies and bananas and cover with the remaining cookies. Refrigerate until ready to serve

Copyright 2010 Television Food Network G.P., All Rights Reserved

So next time you are asked to bring a dessert....this is easy, no baking, and it is just soooooo good!

I'll try to get ya a healthier recipe for next week, but I just couldn't resist!!!

Happy Running,

Thrifty Thursday!!

2010-07-08T09:04:00.000-04:00

A couple of posts ago, I told you that I was gonna add a little more of my personality to this blog because my running is still minimal these days. One of my passions, which my hubby is happy about, is the desire to find a deal. The desire to get the absolute lowest price possible on everything I buy. This girl always has a coupon, even my dad makes fun of me!!
I've been known to go to the grocery store and they pay me to take a product out of the store. Yes, I am the lady in front of you with the pile of coupons, taking forever, but I have to tell you that I save an average of $100 a week at the grocery store and I usually get my groceries 40-60% off!!

Now, although I save a ton of money at the grocery store, I do a lot of my shopping online.....

I am getting very good at finding deals my friends.......so, for those other savvy shoppers out there, or for those of you who want to impress your friends and family with your deal saving skills in this bad economy, I have decided to bring you Thrifty Thursdays!! I will give you a website, product or deal every Thursday... I will try to keep them somewhat exercise, food, running related....so here goes, let me know what you think!!!

My very first thrifty find for you is..................................

Ebates is an online shopping hub of sorts. It allows you to access all of the stores that you would normally shop at online, at one site. Better yet, it gives you cash back just for choosing your store through their site. It's as simple as that.

Become a member of Ebates HERE.

Joining Ebates is always free - you'll never pay them anything. And four times a year or more, they will mail you a "Big Fat Check", or transfer the money to your PayPal account if you'd prefer. They can even send the money to your favorite charity. All 100% free.

If you are ever shopping for new running shoes, workout gear, etc , here are a list of stores (just to name a few because there are 1200 that participate including the biggies like Target, Old Navy, and Walmart) and the % cash back you would get if you just clicked to the store from the Ebates site.

Adidas - 6%
Athleta - 2%
Champs Sports - 4%
Dick's Sporting Goods - 3%
Finish Line - 5%
Foot Action - 4%
Foot Locker - 4%
Holabird Sports - 4%
New Balance - 2.5%
Nike - 6%
Puma - 6%
Reebok - 5%
Road Runner Sports - 5%
Shoe Buy - 10%
Under Armour - 3%

These are great deals, but guess what? There is more. They will give you all of the current coupon codes for each store so that you can get an even better deal!!! I have earned almost $90 just in cash back checks in a year, not to mention all the money I have saved using coupon codes for things I would have bought anyway going directly to their site. Try it out, even if you only use it a couple times of year, add it to your favorites and remember to check for your store every time you shop online (even Old Navy is giving 10% back right now!!)

I am in no way affiliated with Ebates, except being a loyal free member, they have not paid me to promote them. These are my opinions and only my opinions......

I just want my bloggy friends to save money!!

Remember to click HERE to sign up free and start saving and earning money back for shopping! I will get $5 for each person who signs up.....then you can tell your friends and family, and you will get $5 for each person you send!!! Yay!!!

Please let me know what you think of my Thrifty Thursday idea..........and stay tuned ...Foodie Friday will be tomorrow and I have a great recipe (not so healthy) but really yummy to share!!

Happy Running,

Back to Reality and a Tiny Bit of Running News!

2010-07-06T13:45:00.000-04:00

First and foremost, because this IS a running blog......I have a tiny bit of running news....While in NC, I walked almost everyday and got up to 2 miles. I also was able to get up to 3 minutes running. I would run once during each mile for 2-3 minutes....Pretty good and the knee is feeling pretty good. Still some soreness, but I'm getting there....Yay!!!

My pictures and the rest of my vacation details were delayed as the internet connection was soooooo slow in the mountains, It would have taken me all day to post, so here goes!

Hubby and I had the opportunity to jaunt over to our Alma Mater, Duke University, for a day while the boys were in camp. Lucky for us, one of hubby's old friends Chris Collins, who now happens to be the assistant coach for the infamous basketball team ( 2010 National Champs - Yeah baby!!), was there and led us on the grand tour....very cool!! We could not believe how much has changed and all of the great perks and ammenities the school has to offer now.....I think we are getting old... Haha!!!

Blowing Rock was absolutely amazing, Thing 1 & 2 had a fantastic time at their day camp and it was one of the best vacations we have taken in a long time with the kids. They actually listened, used manners and didn't totally embarrass us in public ( I know, pretty amazing for 2 boys!!) . I will leave you with some photos of our week!!!

Me and Thing 1 - Can you believe how tall he is at age 9???

Duke University

Cameron Indoor Stadium

Thing 1 & 2 in a rare instance of being nice to each other!

My beautiful niece - all decked out in her red, white & blue at the Blowing Rock Country Club picnic

Such beautiful views!

Thing 1 on the left......They had great fun at the picnic!

Thing 2 - Flying down the slide

Hubby and Thing 2

A fantastic - 25 minute firework display -

It was a fantastic week....On our 11 hour drive back, hubby and I realized we did not get 1 picture of us together , nor did we get a picture of all 4 of us.....major bummer...I am hoping one of my aunts snapped one of us at some point??? I can't believe it.... Oh well. I guess we will just have to do it again next year!!

Happy Running,

My Heaven on Earth.....................

2010-06-28T14:51:00.000-04:00

My hubby was finally able to get an internet connection a few minutes ago so I am here with my first blog post from

Blowing Rock, NC

Blowing Rock is my true idea of Heaven on Earth. My peaceful place that makes me smile the minute I drive in and get out of the car. Not only is it absolutely beautiful here, but it even smells better, cleaner.....ahhhhh....

I had the ~~torture~~ I mean pleasure of driving my 80 something grandparents here while hubby followed me in our vehicle with Thing 1 and 2. I actually had a ton of fun with conversations on why old people are so grumpy and impatient when they have nothing to do all day......................And many other conversations that ended up being TMI....there is only so much you really want , or need, to know about your grandparents...We did have fun though!! And we all arrived safely...This is what we pulled in to........

My Aunt's mountain home, Not only is it better than any inn or hotel on the planet, It's free...For a whole week!!!!

The view from the bottom back porch - Overlooking Blowing Rock Country Club Golf Course.

The back of the house.

The front entryway......

This is the fire pit that has orange and blue ( Go Gators!!) crystals in it that glow at night!! And we have dreamt up a new type of smore's with a reese's cup, marshmallow, and thin chocolate wafers - sounds delicious and I'll let you know how they turn out!!!

Mr. Moose at the side of the house that protects the beautiful flowers from the evil little chipmunks...Haha...just kidding, there are tons of chipmunks and they are the cutest little things..I'll get a pic before the week ends!!

Did I say Beautiful flowers?? OMG..These hydrangeas are the most beautiful blue and they are in huge bushes all the way around the house.....

Enough blabbering for today...I am busy you know, I have to get out in one of the soft cozy chairs on the back porch and enjoy the high 70's breezy weather, maybe take a cat nap, or read a book.....Only a few more hours till we pick up Thing 1 & 2 from Day camp! It was their first day and they were doing a low ropes course and rock wall so I hope they had a blast!!! Tomorrow they make tie-dye shirts and then head out for some afternoon golfing...sounds pretty rough, doesn't it?? :0)

Now that I can get on the net, I will try to post some more of our vacation over the next few days. Tomorrow, we are thinking of heading back to our Alma Mater, Duke University, for the day , to see how much it's changed in the last 13-14 years ( wow, I think I'm getting old!!).........Gonna meet up with my best friend from college and have lunch!!!

Almost forgot..............I walked 1.25 miles today at a good pace and did 2 short runs, 1:30 and 2:00, yep, I did 2:00 solid minutes with no pain......Little by little.....I'm getting there!!!!!

Happy Running,

My Newest Form of Torture at Therapy Thursday......

2010-06-24T15:14:00.000-04:00

It was back to Physical Therapy today as my schedule has been 2 days a week, Mon and Thursday for the past few weeks. Today was different because I will not see my therapist again for 2 1/2 weeks. First, I leave for vacation tomorrow after work and then she leaves when I am gone.........I'm actually sad about not seeing her for that long...

Today we focused on some shoulder work and I was reintroduced to..... duh, duh,duh ( insert suspense music here)

The Tower ( pilates)

Oh yes, my friends, another ~~form of torture~~ great pilates machine to improve my core, balance and strength! So between the Tower and the Reformer, I am going to be forced back into shape no matter how I feel about it! I am so excited, hope you didn't read that with a hint of sarcasm.....no really...... All kidding aside, I actually love the whole idea of pilates and love that I am using it to strengthen my core and get my body back in alignment, even more so, I am excited that I will be able to continue pilates after my therapy is over! Yay!

At the end of my stretching, infrared therapy, and Tower work, I got on the treadmill. I have to say that I have been a little reluctant to talk about the treadmill because after my excited 30 seconds of treadmill post HERE, my very next therapy session ended in a not so exciting 30 seconds of running with major pain in my knee of the same source ( or what felt like the same source) as before my surgery. I not only got extremely discouraged (=bawled my eyes out after I left therapy and was in the car), but I also started thinking that I may never run again......but, because I have such an awesome PT ( I know, I know, but I can't help saying it out loud, everyday, at least once a day) , she told me not to be discouraged, added new stretches and exercises and a very minimal brace to hold my patella in place, and guess what?????

Today I ran 1:06 at 5.5 mph with NO pain!!! I also completed a full mile at 3.5mph with no pain...................YAY! I can't tell you how excited I am!!

To all of you running races this weekend, I wish you the best, enjoy every minute, you never know when a whole minute on a treadmill might be the highlight of your week........................

And to keep the good news flowing.......................

Me and the fam head off to Blowing Rock, North Carolina for 8 days of heaven!!

Blowing Rock, NC is my favorite place on Earth, sounds crazy, I know.....but I am a Florida born girl who is a mountain girl at heart. Love the smell of the air, the beauty and sound of nature, the peacefulness,........I cannot wait. Even better, and maybe a little bit selfish, is that my kids will being going to a day camp from 10-4 every day , so me and the hubs will actually get some much needed time together and maybe even some relaxation!! Like a don't have to entertain the kids all day, actually take a break, enjoy the scenery, enjoy the peace and quiet vacation..................and then have a blast with the kids in the evening.......the best of both worlds!!!

I would love to share with you guys over the next week, my love of photography, my love of my family and that special bond we have, so get ready for a ton of picture taking...................Hopefully I'll have access to upload.............................

Happy Running,

Reform Me......Please.....

2010-06-23T09:14:00.000-04:00

Has Anyone Used One of These Before???

This is a Pilates Reformer for those of you who don't know......I am VERY new to pilates. Actually, I have never even taken a pilates class, nor have I done a pilates video, but I have been introduced to this ~~torture contraption~~ amazing machine by my fabulous Physical Therapist. Have I told you how amazing she is ( oh, yeah, about 1000 times) , But she is amazing.She incorporates Pilates into her therapy sessions for a total body workout.....love!!

Here is the update on all injuries. What we have determined is that I have a major imbalance in my hips on the right side that is affecting my shoulders, hips, knee and ankle. Had I learned this about 8 months ago, I may not have needed knee surgery ( but I am over that...what's done is done, right??). My hip is majorly upshifted on the right and it is rotated back, imbalanced on 2 plains.....lovely. Because of this, I have problems with my knee wanting to turn in, which causes my patella to track incorrectly, which causes major knee pain when running............

With a new PT, has come all of these discoveries.....The main focus at this point is getting my hips balanced, the harder thing is to keep them balanced.....My muscles have memory ( who knew??) and they like to go back to the place that they know and love....but don't they know that they will love their new home just as much if they give it some time???? Obviously not... We keep getting them on track and they go back off track...so frustrating.

Insert here.............~~torture contraption~~...I mean Reformer.....I actually love this machine. It does everything, legs, arms, abs, and it focuses on keeping your body completely aligned and using your core. My core needs some work people.............So my PT is approaching my knee injury with a full body approach and for that, I am grateful!

I am so happy to have a person in my life that is really trying to get me back to "normal" again, who understands my passions and what I need mentally and physically......Such a major difference from the last PT "mill" I went to. My shoulder recovery, now, 6 months later is not even back to "normal". But with my new PT, I have more faith than ever that I will get back......to normal.....to happy.....to me.

On another note, I have been giving a lot more thought lately to this blog...... I know it started as a running blog, but I struggle daily to find things workout/running related to blog about. Being on the injured list for 8+ months has left me with not a whole lot besides complaining and therapy to talk about. What would you guys think about me adding in some of my other passions.....family, cooking, crafts/frugal finds, bargain shopping, couponing...??? Just some thoughts...I know that I will lose some of my hardcore running readers, but I may gain other readers with varying interests. My followers list has been stuck at 69 for a long time....So thanks to the 69 of you out there who listened to me complain for the last 8 months, but really I could use some imput, ideas, and thoughts on this blog and its future! I love meeting new people, I love having support and I want to improve upon what I've started...................................

Happy Running,

Back from the Beach......Photos...& I Got on the Treadmill!!

2010-06-15T20:33:00.000-04:00

In case you were wondering, Yes, I applied loads and loads of SPF 30 the entire time I was there.....but I still got a tan, Yay!! Thank God for the Cuban blood in me!!!

I spent the past weekend in Jacksonville, FL at One Beach Resort....helloooooo, so expensive, but that is what happens when the planning is left to other family members who live lives where money is no object....I was told that the $179 a night was a "great deal" on the rooms.....little did I know that that price was before, room tax, bed tax, sales tax, valet parking fee ( daily) and the snack fee ( daily).....this left the price a lot closer to $250 a night.....ouch!!!

But needless to say, my now broke a$$, had a good deal of fun hanging with my 30 family members!! Yes, 30 of us! It was amazing...................

The celebration was my grandparent's 60th wedding anniversary!! And at 80....something, they were both on the beach, body surfing (totally not kidding) and having a great time!!! When my 7 year old saw his 82 year old great grandmother come up from riding a wave, he said " Mema, that was awesome" and his eyes were as big as golf balls! Hilarious!

I took a ton of pictures this weekend, because even though my blog doesn't always show it, I love, love, love to take pictures ( especially of the family!!) So here is a little peek into my weekend............................ I only included the one's of my immediate family as I am not sure that all 30 members of my family would like to have their bathing suit clad bodies out here for the world wide web to enjoy!! LOL!!

Thing 1, Boogie Boarding

Thing 2 waiting for the perfect wave.....

All Smiles from Thing 2!!!

My Handsome Fellas!!!

My Grandparents - 60 Years Married

Me, Hubby, Thing 1 & Thing 2

The sign did say "keep off" - Do you think they cared? No, but a great picture opp!!

On a note a little more relating to running, yes, I know this is a running blog, and yes, I realize I have not run in 8 1/2 months, but give me a break people....................

I WALKED ON THE TREADMILL AT 3.0 MPH FOR 5 WHOLE MINUTES!!!! I was smiling from ear to ear like a kid at Christmas!! Oh, and by the way, I had no knee pain...............................

Things are looking up! I had a follow up appointment with my knee surgeon today and he has written a new script that says ""May begin cardio work on knee"........Do I smell running in my future???..................PT says I can do a light jog next week!! I cannot wait, I just hope and pray that the surgery worked and that when I get to .5 miles, the pain won't be there!!! Fingers crossed!!!

Received my Target Gift card in the mail today from Mrs.D, she sent a cute card and I just love, love, love to get mail! I am a mail fanatic!!! Hate the bills, but love the mail!!! So, head over and check her out, she is pretty amazing! Thanks again Mrs. D!!

I will also be catching up on my new magazine ( which I received 2 months of this week) Running Times....anyone else get this one?? I let you know if I find any riveting, must know info!! Till then......

Happy Running,

Catching up....Skinny Cows....and Off to the Beach!!

2010-06-10T10:31:00.002-04:00

Hello Fellow Bloggers!! Okay so I am a bit behind on the times, so here goes!!

Cute little Mrs. D ( she is amazing.., and she recently had a giveaway and I won....awesome!!) at Running Into Healthy Happyness ( if you haven't been there, go) dubbed me with the Versatile Blogger Award - I know all of you were dubbed by someone, but just give me my 3 minutes of glory people!!....I know I am not versatile, because all I do is whine and complain and stay on the injured list ...lol...but like I said, things are looking up!!! So here are 7 things about me:

1) I was the captain of the cheerleading squad in Junior High and High School and traveled to London and New York to cheer in parades with All Star cheering squads!!

2) I am part of a very close knit family. We still, to this day, get together every month or two to celebrate all of the month's birthday.....All 25-30 of us....every month...pretty amazing, I wouldn't have it any other way.

3) I truly believe that communication, with the ones you love the most , is key to lasting and fulfilling relationships.....I never go to bed mad and always let my hubby know how I feel ( whether he wants to hear it or not, lol!) . I just read an article that said you should always hold hands with your hubby/boyfriend while arguing/discussing....hmmmmm, sounds interesting, I bet the argument wouldn't last as long.....

4) My one cup of morning coffee really makes me smile, literally.....coworkers think I'm a bit loony, but a perfect cup of coffee ( lots of cream and sugar) just makes me smile, it's the simple things people!!!

5) I have been married for 12 years and with my hubby for 15 years. I am only 35. I got married right out of college and don't regret that at all. When you know, you know....I also wanted to have kids early so that I will still be young , active and have plenty of time to travel with my hubby once they are out of the house! That's how my parents did it...they've been married 40 years this year, and how my grandparents did it too and they are celebrating 60 years together today!!!!

6) I am secretly jealous of ALL of the women models in the Athleta catalog, if you haven't seen them or the great clothing....head HERE!! These women's bodies are amazing!! When I grow up, I want to look like them, LOL.....a little rehab, and a ton of working out, I'll get there.....really I will....one can dream, right??

7) I am currently beginning to study for the Enrolled Agents exam. ......I am nervous and would love input from anyone who has taken it!!! I hope to take all 3 parts of the exam by February of 2011.....I must get crackin!!

There you have it, a few tidbits about moi........

Skinny Cows!!
So have you guys tried the new small sized Skinny Cow ice creams....??? Pretty Yummo, and just the right size!!
I scored a couple at my local grocery store for just $.50 a piece, so I figured, Why not???

I tried Dulce De Leche....................

This ice cream has 150 calories for the whole thing, only 1g of Fat and 4G of fiber ( bonus!!)

This one tasted rich, creamy and extra sweet. If you love , love caramel, this is the flavor for you, it had tons of caramel swirls!! And if you are on Weight Watchers....Only 2 points!!!

Let me know what you think!!!

So folks, I am off to the beach with all of my family to celebrate my grandparent's 60th Wedding Anniversary!! Pretty amazing that they have been together sooooooo long!! It should be an amazing weekend, I will check in on your blogs and will hopefully post some pics on Monday!!!

Have a super duper weekend!!!!

Happy Running,

Things Are Looking Up.......

2010-06-03T12:16:00.000-04:00

Things are starting to look up in my world! I am out of bed, back to work, and I officially start PT tomorrow.

I had a PT evaluation on Tuesday, and I love, love, love my new PT. With the shoulder, I went to a clinic that basically used the same protocal for every patient and I would have an appointment at the same time as 4-5 other patients. I had very little hands on or one on one time with my PT. As a result, my shoulder is still not back to 100% , 6 months after surgery and I still have pain. The new PT is completely hands on. I will see her 2 times a week for 1- 11/2 hours each session and the therapy is completely 1 on 1. I am very excited, and I am hoping to get back out there sooner rather than later. It will most likely be about 8 more weeks, but in the grand scheme of not running for 8 months, what's another 8 weeks, right???

I also have weekly visits to the Coumadin clinic to moniter my INR for my blood thinners. I was advised that blood thinners don't actually dissolve clots ( did anyone else know this)?? It just reduces the risk of additional clots. So, I was told that I am still at risk for stroke, etc and that I will have to be on the Coumadin for 3 months to a year!! Craziness.

The important thing is that I am feeling sooooooo much better!! Pain is minimal, and since meeting my PT, I am moving forward with a pisitive attitude!! I have even added some core/abdominal exercises to my knee exercises. I am so looking forward to getting this body back in shape but not in time for swimsuit season - (yes, I have to wear one next week, uggghhh)..............

While on bedrest, I had a few little surprises......A good friend of mine brought her 5 year old daughter over to have a picnic in bed!! They brought me soup and we colored in coloring books. She brought about 10 cute little stuffed pink/sparkly animals over and lined them up on the bed beside my leg so that I would have more "friends" at my picnic!! How cute is that???

The other surprise was that my best friend drove from Jupiter ( 3 hours) and completely shocked me....she didn't tell me she was coming, cancelled a dinner party and a ton of other weekend activities she had planned, all because I got a bit emotional on the phone and she thought I needed her. Well, I did, but I wasn't going to tell her that! And she showed up just to come lay in bed with me and keep me company!! We stayed in our PJ's for 2 1/2 days and she brought a ton of magazines. I think we watched FoodNetwork for 48 hours straight!!!! Anyone who is willing to drop everything when they feel that you need them, is the best friend a person can have. She is amazing and if she is reading this, thanks girlie!! I needed that more than you know!!!! ( I hate that I didn't take our picture though!!)

I have been trying to keep up with everyone's blogs but haven't been commenting a ton....I'll try to do better! Thank you all so much for all of the sweet comments, extra prayers and well wishes!! It is so nice to know I have a community of friends and runners who support me and care about me!! You guys rock!!!!

Happy Running,

Blood Clot and Bedrest!!

2010-05-22T12:04:00.000-04:00

So I'm at work Thursday, and my calf is killing me and seems to start swelling, and my leg feels like I have a permanent charlie horse that just won't release.So of course, as we all sometimes do, I start to try to diagnose myself via the world wide web and I find out that I should probably call my surgeon.......

duh, duh, duh...( that was supposed to be the scary suspense music)

I call the surgeon's office, he's out of town, go figure.....the staff says they are going to try to reach him and call me back.....within 15 minutes I get a call that says I need to go directly to the hospital for an ultrasound to rule out a blood clot. Luckily, I work for my dad, and he was able to drive me over......

duh, duh, duh

I get to the hospital and they have set it up so that I can go through outpatient and not the ER ( Thank the Lord, literally), because at this point my calf is absolutely killing me. All in all, everything is handled very quickly. It is confirmed that I have a clot behind my knee and down to my ankle ( hence the calf pain) and the hospital calls my surgeon, my surgeon calls my primary care and then I am told to go straight to the primary care 's office. I go straight to the primary care's office where I am told I will be on complete bed rest for 4-5 days. I have to take a shot of Lovenox ( blood thinner) in the belly for all 5 days ( which my very sweet neighbor who is a nurse has been administering) and that I have to take coumadin ( blood thinner) by mouth for 3-6 months. I'm thinking my blood is very thin right now..................

Follow ups at both the surgeon and the primary care office will be Tuesday.

I also find out that with taking Coumadin, you have to watch your intake of Vitamin K which includes all lettuce and spinach and broccolli...............my favorite things to eat and the things that don't encourage my butt to keep getting wider.....lovely...

I was so trying to have a positive outlook, and so looking forward to getting back out there as soon as possible, and yet another set back. I also know that God doesn't give us more than we can handle but he's pushin it........I'm not sure if physically or mentally, I can take much more..............

So, today, I ask for prayers, if you aren't the praying type, I ask for well wishes and positive vibes, something has got to give.....................

From my bed, and the endless episodes of HGTV, Food Network and TLC, I say....................

Happy Running,

It's just soooooo Wrong!!!

2010-05-18T15:40:00.000-04:00

Okay, so I have a few things to share, and no, I'm not proud....just sayin!!

I came home from work yesterday and my knee was a bit swollen and needed to be put up with some ice on it as soon as possible.

I also knew that hubby wanted to start his P90X yesterday so I made an effort to get dinner made before he and Thing One and Thing Two came bustin through the door ( Thing 2 is always starving the minute he walks in).....timing was perfect. I thought he could eat a bit, do the workout and then finish dinner, all with time to still play with the kids, etc, etc..... His thinking was that he would only eat a little bit, hang out with the family and then do the workout around 9:00PM after the kids are in bed......okay.....( are we ever on the same page as our hubbys????)

So, all goes as planned ( his plan), and I assume the position on the bed - leg raised with two pillows, Ice on knee, and my pink snuggie wrapped over me ( don't hate) and I lay there....forever....... He decides to take the dogs on a walk, play games with the kids ( I played charades from the bed) and then at 9:00PM starts P90X which he did not finish until 10:45PM . I guess alone time with hubby will be minimal for the next 90 days......lovely..... but I am proud of him so I will say nothing, and I will suck it up!!!

A little background, When I was training for my first 1/2 marathon ( which I never got to run), I couldn't get my hubby to do anything with me. He is a very tall, slender man with medium build and can eat and drink whatever he wants and NEVER gains weight!!! Ugggghhhh.....So, now that I am laid up in bed, butt getting wider than the house, and have not exercised for 7 months, he has decided it's time to get in shape....oh course, why not?? As if my "big ol butt" ( yes, my 7 year old told me I had one the other day, and kids don't lie) did not make me feel bad enough, my hubby is exercising like crazy, getting in great shape, starting to look very buff!!! ( I even asked if he was going to trade me in for a new model.....of course he said no......hmmmmmmm, very suspicious all this working out....lol!!)

So, as I heard him breathing heavy and saw him sweating and about to pass out, do you know what I did?????? Got up, and made myself a banana split! Yep, full blown...... with strawberry ice cream, bananas, chocolate syrup, and whip cream......and I got back in bed and ate it..............while he finished P90X..
That IS SOOOOO WRONG!!!! on sooooo many levels!!

And know what else???? I couldn't fit in my capri's this morning.....nope....butt is way too big!! Although I've only gained 4-5 pounds during my 7 month leave of absence from exercising ( which included shoulder and knee surgery) , The 4-5 pounds must be totally in my butt, go figure...I mean couldn't I have fuller cheeks or lips or boobs or something, but not the butt!!!!!!!

So, I found out that I will start PT next week and will finally (hopefully ) be back on the road to recovery. Shoulder is well enough now that I should be able to swim as soon as they allow it with the knee. Don't have a pool, but 2 neighbors do.....any suggestions for good exercises in the pool for both knee and shoulder rehab.......yes, I know I'm a mess, but what can I say!!

Happy Running,

Alive and Well!!

2010-05-15T09:34:00.000-04:00

So surgery went well , as far as I can tell. Other than being really tired yesterday, I haven't been in a ton of pain and have only had to take 2 - 600mg Ibuprofin.

My hubby said that they did have to do a bit of clean up to the chondral area arthroscopically but they also did an IT Band release. This involved an incision, as it can't be done with the scope. I can't see my knee yet, as I have to keep all dressings and the ACE bandage on until Monday.......with post op visit probably Wednesday.

I have done some reading on the IT Band Release surgery and there are mixed reviews, almost everyone says it should be a last resort. I guess for me, with 7 months of no running and no response to PT, this was a last resort. I sooooooo hope that once I get through rehab, this will be the fix for me........

Has anyone out there had IT Band Release Surgery.....any success stories????

Here are some pics of my knee before surgery ( looks like a plain old knee, with some fat pads from all the non working out I've been doing!!)

And this is lovely me after surgery, looking very tired ( excuse the no make-up)....

And the big ol knee..........................................

Do you like the socks?? They are the grippy socks they gave me at the surgery center!! I've been told I can't shower for 5 whole days - yeah right....I'm about to work on a contraption to cover this knee and get into the shower right now!!!!

Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend! I'll be unwrapping the knee on Monday, so I'll update then!!!!

Happy Running,

Surgery day!!

2010-05-14T08:01:00.000-04:00

Headed into knee surgery this morning, so short and sweet for now. Long talk with hubby last night about my fears, concerns, hopes, and dreams. Just say an extra prayer today, I really need it ( along with a speedy recovery and a run!!) ......Sorry I have been absent in bloggy land. I am back, for good, and I am working on a change of attitude and some positive vibes! Stick with me guys!!!!

I'll have hubby take some pictures today so you guys can see the knee before and after...maybe hubby will even help me blog while I'm loopy...that could be interesting!! Haha! stay tuned..........................

Happy Friday and
Happy Running,