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Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Engagement Photo Session - Take Two



 
 
 
 
 
 

Gu Energy Review & Giveaway

I've been using Gu Energy (HERE) products for the past eight years.  I primarily have been using their energy gels, but have also enjoyed the chomps and occasionally the Gu Brew.
 

GU Energy Gel
GU Energy Gel provides athletes with a dose of 100 calories to deliver high-quality, easily-digested and long-lasting energy for athletes in every sport and at all levels. Everything inside each packet of GU is engineered to do one simple thing: provide your body with the essential nutrition it needs to keep going for miles and miles and hours and hours. It goes down easy, and it goes to work fast so you don't have to slow down.
 
What's in it?
  • Carbohydrates - GU provides athletes with a dose of 100 calories in the form of 70-80% maltodextrin and 30-20% fructose (The ratio depends upon the flavor.). Why the mix? It’s a complex carbohydrate, and studies have shown that some complex carbs are actually digested faster than simple sugars like table sugar and honey.
  • Amino Acid Blend - GU features a unique blend of amino acids to combat muscle fatigue, accelerate the conversion of carbohydrates into usable energy, and maintain mental focus.
  • Electrolytes - Sodium and potassium to replenish what is lost during strenuous activity.
  • Caffeine - Some GU flavors are caffeinated while others are not. We add caffeine for two reasons: It acts as a stimulant and it lowers the perceived effort.
How's it different?

An optimal blend of carbohydrates, the proprietary GU amino blend, and a full serving of Vitamin C & E. Oh yeah, did we mention taste? GU Energy Gel has the time-tested consistency and delicious taste that athletes have come to expect from the original energy gel.


How do I use it?
GU should be consumed 15 minutes before and then every 45 minutes thereafter.

 
My favorite Gu Energy Gels include Orange-Vanilla, Vanilla Bean - and the all time favorite, Mint Chocolate.  The mixture of carbs, electrolytes and caffeine give you the exact boost you need every 4-5 miles during a long run.  Not to mention, they are treat tasting.  I LOVED trying the Espresso and Peanut Butter flavors.  I don't think I could down 3-4 of them during a marathon but they are a nice change from the typical flavors during shorter workouts.  The Gu Chomps taste great and are easy to chew - and don't stick to my teeth like other energy chews.  These are similar to the kiddos' fruit snacks, but are packed with all of the good stuff that you need for your long workouts.  Fruit snacks for adults or active student athletes.  They actually make me feel like I have something in my tummy after I consume them - unlike the gels that I down, that don't aid my hunger.  The Gu Brew tablets give your water a slight fruity taste and fizz, without being over-powering.  I prefer the orange flavor over the lemon-lime and other flavors.  They are very easy to toss in your gym bag or purse.

 
Which Gu Energy products have fueled YOUR workouts??
******************************
One lucky winner will win a
Gu Energy Prize Pack
(US ONLY)
PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!
1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?!  LEAVE ME A COMMENT
2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT
3 – Visit the Gu Energy website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT
4 – Become a fan of Gu Energy on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!).  LEAVE ME A COMMENT
5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter (@RunningDivaMom @GUEnergyLabs #RunningDivaMom) account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.
Enter now though July 4.
[If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

Kidz Bop Party Hits Review & Giveaway

The kids and I always love reviewing the newest releases from Kidz Bop (HERE).  Little Diva is quite the singer and Little Dude has been spotted singing on the front porch at 6:30 am to some of the latest tunes.  It's so nice to have some kid-friendly versions of the latest hits available - censored.
 
Little Diva recently received latest release - Kidz Bop Party Hits on CD (HERE)
 
 
There are thirteen fun party hits, that are entertaining for kids and adults.  They are perfect for Friday night family dance parties, birthday parties or car rides in the minivan while running errands.  These songs are remade and sung by kids - for kids.
 
1.       Party In the U.S.A      
  • 2.           Get The Party Started      
  • 3.           Boom Boom Pow      
  • 4.           Move It Like This      
  • 5.           Party Rock Anthem      
  • 6.           Tonight Tonight      
  • 7.           Party Like A Rock Star      
  • 8.           Lets Get It Started      
  • 9.           Moves Like Jagger      
  • 10.           Who Let The Dogs Out      
  • 11.           Single Ladies      
  • 12.           Hey Ya!      
  • 13.           KIDZ BOP Shuffle      
  •  
     
     
    ******************************
    One lucky winner will win
    a copy of Kidz Bop Party Hits on CD
    (US ONLY)
    PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!
    1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?!  LEAVE ME A COMMENT
    2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT
    3 – Visit the Kidz Bop website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT
    4 – Become a fan of Kidz Bop on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!).  LEAVE ME A COMMENT
    5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter (@RunningDivaMom #RunningDivaMom @KidzBop) account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.
    Enter now though July 4.

    [If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

    Monday, June 24, 2013

    2013 Girls on the Run Dane County Spring 5K Race Report

    On June 8, Little Diva and I ran the Girls on the Run Dane County 5K (HERE).  I've ran the fall 5K in Waunakee several times, even coached it.  And, I also had the honor of running with Little Diva at her 5K last fall, to end her GOTR season.  This was only the second year of the spring event and I was excited to see what the race was like at McKee Farms Park in Fitchburg.  Girls on the Run is close to my heart and I always love their events.  They are lively, colorful and low-key/non competitive.  I am so happy that an organization like this exists for these young ladies.  It promotes self-confidence, positive body image and healthy eating habits and attitudes.

      
     

     
      

     

    Little Diva and I showed up to the race, to join a sea of hundreds and hundreds of local girls, ready to run their first 5K.  The event started off in three waves.  There were so many little girls there, ready to run with their running buddy, coach, mother, father, grandparents, and friends.  It is so motivating.
     
    Little Diva and I stuck together the entire race.  There were only a few small hills, which we walked, and I encouraged her to reach certain spots along the 3.1 mile course - mailboxes, fire hydrants, mile markers. 
     
    We loved the positive feedback and comments we received on our colorful Race Junkie Tutus (HERE).  That really boosted her spirit during times of wanting to walk.  She got a little pep in her step and kept moving.  During the last mile, she declared it an entire mile of running - and she moved on and on and on.  Then, when the last 1/4 mile wound around further than we thought - I saw a brief moment of panic across her face.  But she kept at it - and even passed me up at the finish line.

    I was very, very proud of her and always love seeing all of the little girls receive their 5K medals as they cross the finisher's mat - and then head to the post-race snacks!  The girls were thrilled with all of the treats - especially the freezer pops on the hot and humid morning.
     
     
     
     



    Race Junkie Tutu Review & Giveaway

    Race Junkie Tutus (HERE) offers unique and custom tutus for runners and non-runners.  You can also visit the Race Junkie Tutus Etsy Shop (HERE) to place your online order.
     
    Little Diva and I ordered custom Mommy and Me tutus for one of our upcoming races. We were able to pick the style, colors and the sizes fit us both perfectly.
     
    I can't think of a better way for you to stand out in a crowd - especially  a race crowd.  This was an easy way for our family to spot us out on the course in a sea of other runners.  And we even ran into quite a few of our friends, spectating along the course, who spotted us in our tutus.  You can layer the tutu over running shorts or skirts or leggings.  They were a perfect addition to our running ensemble and were very comfortable to run in.
     
     
    Little Diva and I knew that we would be wearing our tutus to the Girls on the Run Spring 5K, so I simply asked the company if they could make them in the bright pink and green GOTR colors.  And, they turned out awesome.  I also love the fun, blingy bows in the back.
     
    These tutus are perfect for your average, local 5K event or any of the themed races out there.  These are a phenomenal addition for any of the Disney-themed races, including the Disney Princess Half Marathon.  Race Junkie Tutus also offers a lot of fun, super hero designs.  These are also great for mud runs, Ragnar Relay and other team events, where you want your group to stand out from the rest.

     
    We will also be wearing our Race Junkie Tutus at the Madison Color Run (HERE) this weekend! 
     
    ******************************
    One lucky winner will win a
    Race Junkie Tutu
    (US ONLY)
    PLEASE LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY!!!
    1 – Become a follower of my blog or already are?!  LEAVE ME A COMMENT
    2 – Follow Running Diva Mom on Facebook HERE.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT
    3 – Visit the Race Junkie Tutus website HERE and tell me what you think is fabulous.  LEAVE ME A COMMENT
    4 – Become a fan of Race Junkie Tutus on Facebook HERE (and let them know Running Diva Mom sent you!).  LEAVE ME A COMMENT
    5 – Post about this giveaway on your blog, Facebook or Twitter (@RunningDivaMom #RunningDivaMom) account. LEAVE ME A COMMENT FOR EACH.
     
    Enter now though July 2.

    [If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]

    Friday, June 21, 2013

    Engagement Photo Session Sneak Peek

    A huge thanks to Errin Hiltbrand Photography (HERE) for capturing these fun moments at our engagement / family photo session recently.  We visited one of our favorite parks in town and the beautiful surroundings, as well as a favorite, local coffee shop.
     
    Can't wait to share the rest with you this weekend!  She's also going to catch all of those special moments on our big day in September.
     








    Monday, June 10, 2013

    The Color Run Discount Code for RDM Readers


    Giveaway Winners ...

    I was recently given the opportunity to feature several great items/events for active families.  You can read all about my fabulous experiences at the links below.

    One winner was chose at random to receive these items. 


    Random.org chose ……..

    Core Foods Meal Bars
    RDM Review (
    HERE)
    Company Website (
    HERE)
    Winner - Kim from Living Domestically (HERE)

    What is Your Because? Running Wine Glass
    RDM Review (HERE)
    Company Website (
    HERE)
    Winner - Sarah Kopf (
    HERE)

    Premier Protein Bars
    RDM Review (
    HERE)
    Company Website (
    HERE)
    Winner - C Busch from Fishful Thinking (
    HERE)

    Jay Bird Sport Blue Buds Headphones
    RDM Review (
    HERE)
    Company Website (
    HERE)
    Winner - Matt0701 from My Heart for Mali (HERE)
    Congratulations!!!  Please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) with your name, email and mailing address.  And, I will get you your prize!
     
    Thank you for following my journey!!
    [If you would like YOUR product or website featured on Running Diva Mom, please email me at ( runningdivamom at yahoo dot com ) ]