Wardrobe Wednesdays: Brooks Women's Infiniti Jacket (GIVEAWAY)

Like most runners, I have important pieces of gear in my wardrobe. I do have a lucky pair of race socks, favorite undies, as well as a go to jacket. My go to jacket is the Infiniti from Brooks. I don't only use it for running, but I also throw it on when doing errands or taking a walk. I LOVE this jacket for a few big reasons:

1.) The Infiniti doesn't necessarily look like a running jacket
2.) It has a million pockets (ok not really a million, but enough that I don't have to wear a SPI belt).
3.) It does a great job at keeping you warm and shielding the wind. Perfect for mild conditions.
4.) The Infiniti is waterproof.

Brooks did a great job with the design as well as color selection (with options in Cobalt, Cerise, and White). The Infiniti details can be read below:

• Full zip jacket with lockdown zipper, garage and decorated wind flap
• Windproof and water-resistant material with Durable Water Repellent Coat (not seam-sealed)
• Perforated back for venting
• Soft, lightly brushed collar
• Side hand zipper pocket (6"W x 7"H)
• Color contrast paneling
• 3M Scotchlite reflectivity front and back
• Moisture-proof media pocket on left bottom (2.5"W x 4"H)
• NOTE to customers with longer arms: sleeves are slightly shorter than average jackets

Fabrics
Infiniti Shelter (100% Polyester), a lightweight windproof and water resistant fabric with a sheen, silky hand

This is a great spring jacket because it's not too heavy, but perfect for cool days.
Where can you find it? Running Warehouse ($49.88), Amazon ($65.00), RoadRunner Sports ($89.99), Brooks ($65.00).

- If you go with Running Warehouse the coupon code FB15D will get you an extra 15% off ($7.00 savings)
- If you go with Road Runner Sports the coupon code CX12D054 will get you 10% off and free shipping.

**How to win a Brooks Infiniti Running Jacket**
+1 entry - Like me on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/HappyMotherRunner
+1 entry - Make a facebook status that says "@Happy Mother Runner I want to win the Brooks Infiniti Running Jacket.http://bit.ly/GKCHk0" Then post on my facebook saying "I entered to win the Brooks Infiniti Running Jacket.http://bit.ly/GKCHk0"
+1 entry - Follow me on twitter @HappyMotherRun
+1 entry - Tweet @HappyMotherRun I want to win the Brooks Infiniti Running Jacket. http://bit.ly/GKCHk0

+1 entry - Tell me in the comments below what your favorite part of spring is.

A lucky winner will be randomly chosen using random.org on  April 7th.

Until next time...
Be Inspired, Stay Motivated, Run Strong!

Wardrobe Wednesdays: Our Little Cheer Squad (Plus a GIVEAWAY!)

It's wardrobe Wednesday again!

Lately I am all about shirts that have awesome sayings that reflect my personality. But what about the people who come out to cheer us on? Since spring seems to have arrived, children will begin to line the race routes to cheer on their favorite people (mom, dad, aunt, uncle, grandma, grandpa, etc.). Along with those cute signs that say "free high five's" and "Go Mommy Go!" I think it's adorable when children wear shirts that scream "My loved one is da bomb!" or "I can't wait to be a runner also!"

So here are some of my FAVORITE children's running tees that I have come across!

 All these can be purchased at CafePress. They are currently providing shoppers 31% off their order with the promo code PiDay314 (Today Only!)

OK Now for the Giveaway...

I am also giving away one "Future Runner" t-shirt to a lucky mommy/daddy for their precious little one (you choose the size and color). 

All you have to do is tell me what your family's favorite activity is in the comment section below. One lucky winner will be selected using random.org on March 23, 2012.

Be Inspired, Stay Motivated, Run Strong!

Wardrobe Wednesday: Under Armour Coldgear Fitted Printed Turtleneck

I know I am a day late, but it's better late than never!

Today's wardrobe Wednesday (ok Thursday) I am featuring the very cute and trendy ColdGear Fitted Turtleneck from Under Armour.

I love this shirt for three main reasons:

1) It doesn't ride or chafe. The shirt stays put without any of the worry that comes with many fitted running shirts. I have some trouble keeping running shirts from riding up and staying down over my stomach since I am still carrying some baby weight. This shirt was perfect, it moved with me and kept me covered.

2) It's warm. The turtleneck is a nice feature that protects the neck and chest from the cold air and wind. The inside is layered with a soft knit that is also moisture wicking.

3) Finally, this top is cute, trendy, and functional. The animal print is not something you usually see on running gear and it gives a running outfit a feminine spark without being too girly. Plus the colors match almost much anything.

Where can you purchase the ColdGear Fitted Turtleneck from Under Armour?
Sports Authority has it on sale for $44.98 ($15.00 savings). And prices will probably drop as spring draws near. So now is the time to buy awesome running apparel for next winter at discounted prices!

Wardrobe Wednesday: Packing for Racecations

Yep it's that time of the week, Wardrobe Wednesday! Unlike my typical Wardrobe Wednesday, today I am not going to feature running gear. Instead I am going to give you the low-down on how I pack for a racecation (a vacation that involves running a race). And right now I am knee deep in racecation packing as we speak.

So far every "big" race I have taken part in has been away from home. I have come to think of myself as a semi-pro racecation packer, but by the end of this running season I will give myself the title of Pro with 4 races in 3 months away from home (and still adding more to the itinerary).

So how does one pack for a racecation? 

My carry-on from Disney Marathon Weekend

First thing to consider is if you are flying or driving. If you are flying I would suggest packing your important running gear in a carry-on, while your backups and regular clothes can go into checked luggage. If you are driving everything can go into one bag. The reason I suggest a carry-on is in case your checked luggage goes missing or someone decides to ruffle through it and steal something. This way your important items are close to you at all times and you don't have to worry about getting to your destination and not having your shoes, etc. **Always pack electronics (Garmin, iPod, camera) in your carry-on bag**.

So what to pack?
I would rather be over prepared instead of under prepared. It is important to have options especially if the weather is unpredictable.

With that said here is my packing list (with explanations)
  
Running Attire (packing for unpredictable weather)
- Main running shoes (can't run a race without them).
- Backup running shoes (never know when your main ones might have undergone misfortune, for example a sick child).
- 2 Running socks (if you wear compression sleeves... those also)
- 1 compression socks for after the race (especially if you are driving or flying back right away, helps with blood flow).
- 1 running shorts (in case the weather is warm)
- 1 pair of running capris (in case the weather is mild)
- 1 pair of running pants (in case the weather is cold)
- 1 running tank (good for layering or if the weather is warm)
- 1 running shirt (usually my main top)
- 1 long sleeve running top (in case of rain or cold weather. Also good to pack in checked race bag)
- 2 sports bras (always have a backup of something you can't live without)
- A handful of hair-ties and a headband
- A hat (to go with the weather just in-case)
- gloves (if it is cold)
- a throw away track suit (usually purchased at Goodwill) if you predict that the weather will be really cold at the start and there is a long wait for the gun.
- sunglasses

Running Accessories
- A running belt (to carry belongings)
- Garmin
- iPod and headphones
- water bottle

Other Running Items
- Gu or other sustenance (whatever you have used during training)
- Gatorade (I always pack Gatorade, because many races provide Powerade and I usually don't train with it)
- Tylenol (for achy joints, especially if you are returning home same day)
- Ice packs (for the above reason)
- Body glide (to prevent chaffing)
- Vaseline (to treat chaffing)
- Sunscreen (skin cancer can be prevented)
- Chap-stick (obviously chapped lips)
- The stick (to roll out after the race)
- Good snack food (in case the race doesn't provide it)
- A cell phone or camera (you never know when you might need to take a picture)
- A plastic bag for stinky running clothes (last thing you want to do is drive 5 hours with the smell of sweat seeping out of your bags into the car... yuck!)
- Lotion (my hands get insanely dry)
- baby wipes (to have in your race checked bag to clean up/freshen up after the race).
- Airborne (to prevent getting sick)
- Inhaler (because I use one)

Racecation Items
- A printout of your hotel reservation confirmation (better safe than sorry)
- A printout of your race confirmation (better safe than sorry)
- A printout of the race map (if you are driving to the start this will help avoid crazy traffic in areas your not familiar with driving in)
- An idea of local restaurants (that way you can prepare for prerace carb loading)
- A printout of directions to the hotel (sometimes GPS stops working)
- Your typical everyday stuff (clothes, shoes, bath items, sleep items, etc).

Tomorrows Training post will be about preparing for racecations. My prerace rituals help me get to my destination and the starting line excited and prepared. If it seems like preparation is my top priority, well it is. I blame it on the numerous years I spent in Girl Scouts (10 years to be exact - all the way to 12th grade) and having the motto "Be Prepared" drilled into my head. Well as I always say, "better safe instead of sorry".

Be Inspired, Stay Motivated, Run Strong!

Awesome Valentines Day Running Gear

When I was younger Valentines Day was magical and full of love. Now that I am older and have a family I don't really celebrate V-day. Instead I try to live it everyday. I know it sounds cheesy, but it's important to cherish the ones you care about and express your love for them everyday. With that said, one of the aspects of life that I love (besides being a Mom and Wife) is... dun dun dun...running (ok you probably already guessed it). Running has become my best friend. It pushes me to do my best, is always there when I need it, allows for stress relief/therapy, etc etc. So how do you show your love for running and being fit? I have some great items that show your true feelings and scream girl in love!

Sparkle Heart Run Buns Boy Shorts ($16.80)
These are cute and comfy bunhuggers that are flattering. You can wear them under running shorts or use them for yoga classes. You can purchase a pair from Running Skirts.

Sparkly Sweaty Bands ($15.00)
Every girl deserves some sparkle and I love wearing my headband to run, do yoga, hit the gym, and do my mommy duties. It's a great way to flair up any outfit and they have TONS of colors to choose from. You can purchase headbands from Sweaty Bands.

 For the Love of the Run Mixed Metals Marathon Necklace ($31.00)
Show your love of the sport with this beautiful necklace. Handmade with mixed metals (Copper and Aluminum) and made custom to order. You can purchase the Love Run necklace from the MyBella on Etsy.

Beverly Bowtie Gym Bag ($149.00)
One of the cutest gym/yoga bags I have EVER seen. It screams girl in love! It has a hidden yoga mat carrier, vent holes to let your sweaty clothes air out, a sturdy seatbelt strap that are adjustable and removable, a stretchy water bottle pocket, phone or MP3 slot, and a lock loop to keep your lock in one place. You can purchase your bowtie gym bag from oGorgeous. 

Hand Stamped Cuff Bracelet ($40.00)
Beautiful leather bracelet with the phrase "Live Love Run" etched in a silver plate. Each cuff is a 9 inch adjustable strap with brass washers and silver plating. It is made of 100% sterling silver and leather. And your bracelet can be personalized. You can purchase a bracelet from TwoRoadsFitness.

RunLove Compression Socks ($32.00)
One of my favorite pieces of running gear, RunLove socks are adorable and practical. I use them during long runs and after a hard race to help increase circulation. You can purchase a pair from Running Skirts.

 

 

 

 

Earthlust Stainless Steel Water bottles ($18.00)
I love water bottles. They do great wonders for preventing excessive trash, they are healthier, and make a wonderful statement. Earthlust provides beautiful designs, different sizes, and all bottles are 100% BPA free. You can purchase your water bottle from Earthlust.

Be Inspired, Stay Motivated, Run Strong!

Getting Personal: Chaffing

If you follow my blog regularly, you can probably tell that I have really kicked my training into full gear. I have started working out 2+ hours on the days I don't run, I have taken up yoga, and I have been putting in hill and tempo workouts. This has been going on since I came back from my last half marathon at Disney during the first weekend in January. During the last month I have toned certain areas of my body and have lost a little bit of weight, which is what I was aiming for. I didn't, in my wildest dreams, think it would become a problem

For Christmas my brother and his girlfriend bought me my much coveted running gear "Rundies". I tried them on and they were perfect and after washing and drying they still fit perfectly. So I did a trial run before my Disney race... no chaffing. Well, only after a handful of uses I need to retire my rundies to my "too big" clothes drawer. Yesterday I put in 7 miles and felt pretty good after. I was having some minor issues during my run with my rundies. They were riding up and causing a horrible wedgie (something that I didn't have a problem with before). I found myself readjusting my shorts every .5 miles trying to make it look like I wasn't trying to pick out a wedgie in front of the whole gym. It was during late last night that I started to feel the pain. I had chaffed during my run. And the location, well, isn't a pleasant one.

Lesson 1 to take away: ALWAYS test run you gear before a race. Even if it's something that you have worn a handful of times. Our bodies are constantly changing with our workouts, miles, and diet. An article of clothing that may have fit you nicely a month ago, just might be the downfall to your next attempt at achieving your goal. I am glad I discovered it now, instead of experiencing it at my next half in a few weeks away.

Lesson 2: Vaseline is a wonderful concoction that does amazing things with chaffed areas.

*** I would like to say that I LOVE Rundies and will be buying a smaller size now that I have shrunk out of the ones I have.***

Be Inspired, Stay Motivated, Run Strong!

Wardrobe Wednesday: My favorite cool weather top (RSS Cross Town Hoodie)

Dressing for cool weather can be tricky. It's not cold enough for winter gear, but not warm enough for shorts and a tank. When I found the perfect top for the cooler days, I had to share it with you. It is the RSS Cross Town Hoodie. I have worn it for 4 separate runs (2 short runs and 2 long runs) and so far no chaffing, riding, or overheating. The best part of the RSS Cross Town Hoodie is that there is a hole in the hood for your ponytail. And to top it off the Cross Town is, hands down, the cutest top I have. The RSS Cross Town Hoodie can be found at www.roadrunnersports.com at cost $39.99 (full price).

Product Info:
Soft shirring at bust
Thumb hole cuff
Zippered storage pocket
Hole on back of hood for ponytail outlet
360° reflectivity for safety
92% polyester/8% spandex





 Be Inspired, Stay Motivated, Run Strong! 

**GIVEAWAY** Wardrobe Wednesday: My Recent Racing Outfits

** SWAG GIVEAWAY ALERT (read until the end for awesome swag)**

In this wardrobe Wednesday, I am highlighting my most recent racing outfit.
What I loved about this outfit is that it is bright and fun! I usually don't wear bright clothes, so I let myself go crazy when it comes to running gear. I find that the moment I put on a HOT/Bright color it motivates me to run stronger.

What I wore:
Shirt: Nike Legend Women's Training Shirt 
Shorts: Adidas Women's Marathon 10 Grete Short (The Adidas shorts are currently on sale for $14)
Socks: RunLove Compression Socks

What I love about the outfit, besides the color coordination and brightness, is that everything stayed in place. As a mommy who is still trying to lose the last bit of baby fat, I find that some running clothes easily ride up. The shirt stays in place nicely, the shorts don't cause chaffing.

 One lucky reader will become a owner of a pair of RunLove socks.

HOW TO WIN:
Comment below and tell me how you brighten up your run on such a cold and gloomy day.
That's it! Good luck and one lucky reader will be chosen on 1/28/2012.

Be Inspired, Stay Motivated, Run Strong!

Wardrobe Wednesday: Sheddable Shells

Sheddable Shells

Tis the season for cold weather. Even though we might be getting slapped with some cold fronts doesn't mean we should put our race schedule on the shelf until it warms up.

When I was in FL participating in Disney's Marathon weekend, the temps fluctuated substantially between early morning  (waiting in corral  was about 30 degrees) to finish line temps (70 degrees). Since I didn't have anyone cheering me on at the sidelines, I needed to make sure that whatever I was wearing would be good from start to finish. Unlike other runners, I neglected to get warm clothes to wear at the starting line that I could easily take off and be willing to toss on the sidelines.

I am on the left wearing my Sheddable Shells.

While at expo, I saw a booth for Sheddable Shells. I was reluctant at first, but thought I might as well invest in some instead of freezing while waiting for the start. In the end it was a great investment. They sold pants and jackets, and as silly as I looked I was just as warm. They were easy to take off when getting ready to run. They are made from a poly-spun blend of Polyethylene and Polypropylene. Sheddable Shells are light weight and easy to move in, waterproof, and wind resistant.

TMI MOMENT: Sheddable Shells didn't only keep me warm but saved me when I found myself stuck in a portapotty without any toilet paper. I ripped off some of my pants and I was on my way back to the starting line to wait for my relay partner for the marathon.

Sheddable Shells can be bought at http://sheddableshell.com/ and run $10.00 for a jacket and $10.00 for a pair of pants.

At the moment I can not find any deals or promo codes for Sheddable Shells, but when I do I will post an update with the information.

Be Inspired, Stay Motivated, Run Strong!

Wardrobe Wednesday: Sparkly Soul Headbands

Sparkly Soul Headbands
I am dedicating my first Wardrobe Wednesday post to one of my favorite accessories: The Sparkly Soul Headband. Yes, as you have read previously, I have had the misfortune of having my Sparkly Soul Headband stolen at the gym. It was the loss of my headband that put into perspective how awesome Sparkly Soul is compared to other headbands.

Sparkly Soul thin in gray.

Why I love Sparkly Soul
1) I bought my headbands directly from Sparkly Soul at the NYC Marathon Expo. It's always great to support small business. They were excited about their product, down to earth, and very patient and willing to answer any and all questions.
2) Sparkly Soul has a large selection of vibrant colors.
3.) They stay in place (and do not slip) better than any other headband I have had on my head.
4.) You can choose between thin and and wide headbands.
5.) They live up to their name... they SPARKLE! They add nice flair to any running outfit and are versatile; I have even used mine for dressing up a hairstyle for going out.
6.) You will receive tons of compliments because they are awesome!




Pricing
The thin headbands are $15.00, while the wide headbands are $17.00.
 
Retail
If you live in NYC there are numerous places you can purchase Sparkly Soul Headbands from, a list of locations can be found on their facebook page.

If you don't live in NYC, Sparkly Soul also sales their headbands at http://www.sparklysoul.com/

Promo Code
A fellow runner, Whitney from Live Run Love Yoga, is running the Boston Marathon in 2012 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. If you use the promo code WHITNEY you can receive 15% off your purchase. 25% of your purchase will go towards Whitney's fundraising goal. The promo works until January 31st. It's a win/win!

Be Inspired, Stay Motivated, Run Strong!

The winner of the Headband Swag is...

Helene Melchert LaFaver! Congratulations on being the first winner of Novembers Bounty Giveaway! Helen, please email HappyMotherRunner@Gmail.com with your mailing address to receive your running gear! 
There will be another giveaway next week, please stay tuned. Happy Running to All!

November's Bounty Giveaway

As the title suggests, November is going to be filled with amazing goodness at Happy Mother Runner! Why? Well, I am giving away some AWESOME running swag! Each week in the month of November one lucky reader will win a nifty running gift.

How do you enter? Easy... sign up to follow me on my blog or like me on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/HappyMotherRunner). If you do both, you are entered twice! I said it was easy :)

The grand prize gift is a Preppy Blue Athletic Skirt from runningskirts.com. Stay tuned to learn how to win this amazing piece of swag at the end of November!

Good Luck and Happy Running

NOVEMBER'S BOUNTY GIFT LIST
Gift #1: Headband Swag
White DANCE! Headband from Lululemon
Great for running, yoga, and everything in between. Made from luon, our signature fabric: breathable with 4-way stretch
Size: One size fit all
Value: $12.00

Blue Slipless Headband from Lululemon
Great for running, yoga, and everything in between. Sticky grip holds it in place
Size: One size fit all
Value: $9.00

Gift #2: Stay Hydrated On-The-Go!
Sigg 1L Sport Top Bottle from Lululemon
Super lightweight aluminum bottle. Contains no PVC, BPA or phthalates that might be harmful to your body. Internal coating does not retain smell or flavour and is bonded to the metal so it will last the lifetime of the bottle. Virtually unbreakable and fully recyclable when you're done with it. Swiss engineered, leak proof lid! Complies with all FDA health regulations
Value: $19.00

Gift #3:The Best Support System
Nike Victory Adjust X-Back Sports Bra
Ideal for high-impact sports like running, soccer, tennis and basketball. Adjustable shoulder straps and back closure for a fully customizable fit. Open mesh X-back for ventilation. Molded cups for separation, lift and shape
Size: S(C-D)
Value:$55.00

Gift #4: Keeping the Style
Spin Me Tank from Lululemon
Medium support and coverage tank with bra adjustability and a twist! Made for the gym, cycling or yoga. Made with super soft stretch luxtreme™ - lightweight, inherent wicking performance to keep you dry and comfortable. Wide mesh straps are wicking, and quick drying, with an anti-stink Chitosan finish. Mid length, body skimming fit - follows your curves but doesn't ride up. Mesh shelf bra comes with removable cups.
Size: 6
Value: $52.00

GRAND PRIZE - Gift #5: Running with Class
Preppy Blue Athletic Skirt from runningskirts.com
Super versatile navy, royal blue and pool argyle print with white heart detail in lightweight performance fabric. 2 Roomy Velcro closure pockets at the hips. Attached compression shorts with no chafe flat seams have a longer inseam for thigh protection and a fit that does not ride up. Inseam length 6-8".
Size: 4
Value:$68.00

My love of CEP

I had a pretty big scare last night, which led me to the conclusion that there are certain running items I just can't live without.

I had just gotten the laundry back from the laundry mat (I outsource b/c it saves time) and I was putting away our massive amount of clothes. As I was making my way through the piles and piles, I discovered one lonely CEP sleeve. This is what our laundry mat does when they find missing socks, the lady nicely piles all the lonely ones together. As I held my CEP compression sleeve I remembered specifically putting both in the laundry bag. If both went in the bag that means one is missing at the laundry mat. My eyes begun to tear and I felt frustration building up inside. How could they have lost my compression sleeve. What would I do, I can't get to the store to buy new ones until Saturday. How would I complete my long run? At this point during my panic it dawned on me that this compression sleeve was what helped me get through my 3 mile wall. It stopped my shin splints after months of icing, ibuprofen, and a couple chiropractor visits that couldn't. This sleeve is what helped me complete my first half marathon. This was more then a sleeve, it was a sentimental item that made me a runner.

As I pushed back the tears, I put away the rest of the laundry with a huge feeling of disappointment. I went to bed accepting the fact that my beloved sleeve was gone for forever.

When I was getting ready to go to work/school this morning I was gathering my belongings. I decided, since it was raining, that I would run indoors at the University gym. So I started to gather my running/workout attire. As I picked up one of my moisture wick shirts, there it was (my sleeve) stuck on the back of my shirt. My heart skipped a beat. I was beyond excited and it made my day. I happily put my newly found sleeve safely with my other sleeve and smiled. Everything felt right again. And then reality hit and I remembered that I had a huge day of meetings and headaches ahead of me.

I love my CEP's :)

Changing Your Wardrobe w/the Seasons

As a new runner, I have been trying to figure out how to make an easy transition from the hot summer weather to the cool fall temps. It has been a guessing game and I always seem to guess the wrong answer.  I am either always overdressed and too warm or under dressed and too cold.

So I obviously goodled my imposing problem! And I found a great blog post titled, what else, "Cold weather running" which provides  good guidelines to follow when trying to pick your daily running attire. These are just starting points to help you choose what to wear.


According to Mary Katherine Ibbetson
What to wear as the temperature dips
> 55º    – Shorts, sleeveless jersey, socks, sunglasses
45-55º  – Shorts, short sleeve jersey, socks, sunglasses
40-45º  – Shorts, long sleeve jersey, socks, sunglasses, gloves (mine are windproof)
35-40º  – Running pants or tights, long sleeve jersey, socks, running vest, sunglasses, gloves, chapstick
30-35º  – Running pants or tights, long sleeve jersey, woolie socks, running vest, headband, sunglasses, gloves with glove liners, chapstick
25-30º  – Running pants or tights, long sleeve jersey, woolie socks, running vest, headband, sunglasses, warmer gloves, chapstick
20-25º  – Craft windproof front panel pants, spandex shorts under the tights, long sleeve jersey, Craft windproof under layer, woolie socks, running jacket, running face mask, sunglasses, warmer gloves with glove liners, chapstick

The above chart gets adjusted for:    
Long slow runs – I find that I may need to wear gloves if the temperature is below 50º because my hands get colder the longer I am running
Races – I dress a little cooler because I am running faster and tend to be hotter
Windy – I may wear an extra layer (sleeveless shirt) under my top layer.
1st Cold run of the season – dress a little warmer because you are use to the warmer weather so it feels even colder than it really is.
Dark runs (early morning/night) – dress a little warmer depending on wind