Book Review & Giveaway: Run Like a Mother

I read this book like an easy paced long run. Savoring each page and allowing each chapter to just sink in.

There are chapters that cover everything from selecting running shoes and clothing, must-have gadgets and accessories, to running while pregnant, cross-training, injury prevention, and how to get the perfect race photo! Also in the book are some training information - how to do hill repeats, strength and mental training and nutrition.  All these running information PLUS advice on how to balance family and work while keeping your sanity!

The number one thing that sets this book apart from the other running books I've read so far, is that it is written by running moms for running moms. Yes, mother runners, this can be our running bible. It's reassuring to know that what we're doing is normal. That there are other running moms out there who try to sneak in a tempo run, who only had 3 hours of sleep before a workout, who has to be home in time to prepare dinner. It somehow made me feel like we are superhuman -- because we can do it all and still be loving moms and wives.  Are you a multi-tasking running mom and wife who is trying to balance it all?  Then this book is for you!

Authors, Dimity McDowell and Sarah Bowen Shea share their personal experiences as well as advice, stories and quotes from other mother runners. It is witty and often times hilarious! The book is written in such a tone that it's very easy and enjoyable to read. I often catch myself nodding in agreement or smiling.  Yes, I'm not alone!

What I love about the book is the succinct and understandable way it explains everything there is to know about running. This is a very comprehensive book for runners who are just starting out and want to learn the basics. I am not a beginner but still enjoyed this book immensely. Up to now, it lies on my bedside table for easy reference.

Valentine's Day is coming up and if I didn't get this book to review, I would have loved to receive it as a gift from my man.  *hint, hint*  hubbies!

There are two ways to get this book...

1.  Check out their site (http://runlikeamotherbook.com/buy-it/), get a peek inside via google books and information on where you can purchase it for your wife, mom, sister, friend, or any running mom you know who may need this book.

2.  Join my giveaway below. =)

Giveaway

The authors, Dimity and Sarah were kind enough to provide a giveaway copy of the book.  One lucky blog reader will win this awesome read.  Male runners, you are welcome to join as well.  Like I said, it will make an awesome gift to the wifey or to any running mom you know.

Please note that this is open to U.S. and Canadian residents only.  BUT, If you live abroad and want to have this shipped to a U.S. or Canada address of a relative or friend, then you are welcome to participate.

I will announce the winner this coming Sunday, Feb 6.

Please remember to leave a SEPARATE comment for EACH of the things below.  1 comment = 1 entry.  I suggest you do everything specified below to increase your chances of winning.  If you do all 12, that's 12 entries!

Mandatory:

1.  Must be a FOLLOWER of my blog. I'm doing this because it's my way of thanking you for being one! =) Click the Follow button located at my right sidebar. And let me know that you are following already by posting a comment here like, "I am a follower" .  I am always happy to see new people following. = 1 entry

2.  Visit the Run Like a Mother Store and let me know which running mom shirt you like the most = 1 entry

3.  Follow me on Twitter (@HotlegsRunner) and leave a comment that you already do. = 1 entry

4.  Follow the authors on Twitter (@sbsontherun AND @dimityontherun) and leave a comment that you already do. = 1 entry

5.  Like the Hotlegs Runner on FACEBOOK, post something on my wall or comment on my post/status (anything), and leave a comment here that you already do. = 1 entry

6.  Like Run Like a Mother on FACEBOOK, post on their wall saying Hotlegs Runner sent ya, leave a comment that lets me know you already do. = 1 entry

7.  Post this giveaway on your blog, Twitter and/or Facebook linking back to here.  Let me know when you've spread the word. Leave a comment for EACH. = 3 entries

     Copy and paste for Twitter: Join the Run Like a Mother Book Giveaway by @HotlegsRunner - http://www.hotlegsrunner.com/2011/01/book-review-giveaway-run-like-mother.html

    
8.  Add me to your blog roll. = 1 entry

9.  Add Run Like a Mother's Blog to your blog roll. = 1 entry

10.  Answer this: What is your best tip/advice to running moms so they can find the time and energy to workout?

Good luck!
Disclaimer:  I did not pay for this book.  They were sent to me and in exchange, I post an honest review of it.  I was not compensated nor was I encouraged by the manufacturer to post a positive review.  This review is based solely on my experience with this book.

Go Girl Sport Winner & This Week's Roundup

The lucky winner for the Go Girl Sport Tuxedo Skort or Toga Tank is.... 

#88 JenniferLeah @ Miles, Muscles, & Mommyhood!

Congratulations!  Shoot me an email to claim your prize!

Thanks to everyone who joined and watch out for my next giveaway tomorrow =)

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End of the Week Roundup

Here's a roundup of the week's postings all in one place in case you missed any of them!

• Just sharing - Wordy Wednesday: Swimming Issues

• Please Be Careful, ladies!  Another runner was attacked this week.

Please Be Careful!

The other day, another female runner was attacked at Laguna Hills, CA.  I say "another" because this is not the first the time something like this happened in that area.

I caught her being interviewed in the news and she said she was running at around 7:20pm when she was attacked by a man from behind and pushed to the bushes, away from the busy street.  There were a lot of cars but since it was dark no one even noticed this.  It a good thing she screamed, resisted and tried to make her way close to the street again.  At that point the attacker ran away.  She could have been raped!

She flagged down a car asking the driver to drive beside her as she head home.  No, she DID NOT get in the car coz she was too scared.  She just needed someone with her.  The driver of the car agreed, and followed her home until she was safe.

Ladies, please be careful out there, ok?  It's best not to run at night, if possible.  Maybe, not listening to music will also help so you are aware of your surroundings.

Just a friendly reminder.  Happy Weekend, everyone! =)

Posts you might have missed this week:

Gear Review & Giveaway: Go Girl Sport

Wordy Wednesday: Swimming Issues

Wordy Wednesday: Swimming Issues

It started getting warm here in CA last week so I decided to get back in the pool and start my swim training already.  Haven't been in the pool for 3 months!  It's like I have forgotten that in order for me to be a triathlete this year (one of my goals for 2011), there's some swimming involved.

I would read blog posts and tweets of fellow triathlete bloggers daily talking about their swim training and I wondered, "how the heck can they swim in this cold weather?!"  I know I sound like a sissy.  But I grew up in a tropical country and since I just moved here, I'm still starting to get used to the cold.

That's issue #1 for me...

The Cold

With running, it's the struggle of getting myself out the door during those lazy days.  With swimming, it's actually getting myself in the pool.  Even in this warm weather, the 71 degree heated(?) pool still seems cold to me.  So I sit on the edge of the pool and dip my feet in for about 5 minutes.  Then I stand up and go a step down to get my knees in, and then another until the water is up to my thighs.  And then finally, I close my eyes and just jump in.  Seems like forever!  Doesn't that sound weird to you? Haha!  That whole ritual probably takes about 15 minutes!

I heard the open water can be really cold during a triathlon so I really need to get used to the cold. A.S.A.P.

Gladly, I only have two issues with swimming but issue #2 is a lot more important than #1...

Freestyle Ain't My Style

I don't know why but as much as I try, I am less exhausted when doing the breaststroke.  With the freestyle it seems like my body is struggling, while with the breaststroke, I can swim one whole mile (I actually did) and even think about what I'll cook for dinner or what I'll blog about next while doing so.  I am that relaxed with that stroke.  Maybe I was a frog in my past life, who knows. *shrugs*

While any swim stroke is accepted in a triathlon, I know that the freestyle can get you from point A to point B faster (though it doesn't seem like it in my case).  I also know that with the breaststroke, I'll be hitting other swimmers beside or behind me with my frog legs and circling arms and I might be hated for it.

I still do incorporate the front crawl (freestyle) when I train.  I know I need to... *sigh*

Just wanted to let this out.  It can get frustrating at times and I wonder if others have the same issues as well.  I like talking about my weakness but it doesn't mean I feel defeated or I'm giving up.  It just makes me feel, well, human.  I like talking about my achievements, but I also like acknowledging my weaknesses. Because overcoming them (and I know I will) will be a whole lot sweeter and something a lot better to share later on.  And It demonstrates what I know about myself, that I have a clear understanding of my strengths and weaknesses, and what I'm willing to learn.

Obviously, just like in running, the phrase "Suck it up, Buttercup!" also applies to this other sport.  Duh!  Just my luck.  Haha!

What are your issues (big or small) with your sport?

Posts you might have missed this week:

Gear Review & Giveaway: Go Girl Sport

Gear Review and Giveaway: Go Girl Sport

Go Girl Sport sent me their Toga Tank and Tuxedo skort to review and give away.  The timing was perfect since I needed something new and swanky to wear during my first race event of the year: The 13.1 Los Angeles the other weekend.

The Toga Tank lets you show your wild side with a full mesh back for superior breathability while providing enough coverage to satisfy your modest side. Seams are sewn flat and offset from tender areas to avoid chafing. The moisture wicking performance fabric keeps you comfortable even in the most challenging workouts.

The Tuxedo Skort Don't save this skirt for a black tie event! The Tuxedo Skort is great for racing, hiking or kickin' it at the gym - and destined to be a staple in your athletic wear wardrobe. This flattering design features a low rise waistline with a wide band to keep things smooth. Front and back mesh panels will keep you cool and pique the interest of those around you. Attached 3" inseam boy short has offset seams, sewn outward to avoid chafing.

My Review

Although it is technically still winter, it has been weirdly warm here in California.  Normally, when I run long distances, I would wear my tights for extra support.  But in this heat... No. Thank. You.  The top and skort that Go Girl Sport sent me to review was perfect for the sunny weather on race day. The fabric was very soft, lightweight, and breathable.

What I especially loved about the top was the mesh back. It kept my body cool and my back dry (and looking sexy too! Woot!).  This may be the right top for you if what you're looking for are comfort, functionality and style.

The skort also had mesh panels to help my "hotlegs" stay cool and perform well. In fact, I shaved of 6 minutes off my last 21K time. PR! Woohoo!  The elastic waistband wasn't uncomfortable around the waist like other skorts.  If you're looking for a skort you can use for running and other sports, this is a great choice!

As you can see, I really have nothing bad to say but I do have a suggestion.  The smallest size that they have is Small.  I would suggest a size extra-small for their products for us petite girls.  I'm 5'1" and my weight plays around 100 to 105 lbs.  I think the extra small size would fit me perfectly.  There are other runners, cyclists, surfers, etc out there that are tinier than I am so it would really be nice to have sizes for short and slender women.

Oh, before I forget, I have something to confess...

I did not test out the top and skort before race day because... well... I forgot.  Hee! :p  Once again, I have done it.  Wear something new on race day - a BIG NO NO!  Don't do this at home kids!

However,  I was lucky with the Go Girl Sport Top and Skort because I did not chafe anywhere.  Whew!  The smooth fabric felt wonderfully soft against my skin and kept my body at the ideal temperature.

I look pretty cool, right?  Who am I wearing?  Go Girl Sport, baby!

Giveaway

Thanks to Susan H. of Go Girl Sport, you get a 20% discount with any Go Girl Sport purchase.  Just use the Coupon Code: HOTLEGS.  Also, one lucky reader will a Toga Top or a Tuxedo Skort.

Please note that this is open to ANYONE.  They will ship worldwide!  Awesome, ey?

I will announce the winner this coming Sunday, Jan. 30.

Please remember to leave a SEPARATE comment for EACH of the things below.  1 comment = 1 entry.  I suggest you do everything specified below to increase your chances of winning.  If you do all 11, that's 11 entries!

Mandatory:

1.  Must be a FOLLOWER of my blog. I'm doing this because it's my way of thanking you for being one! =) Click the Follow button located at my right sidebar. And let me know that you are following already by posting a comment here like, "I am a follower" .  I am always happy to see new people following. = 1 entry

2.  Visit the Go Girl Sport Website. Let me know which of their products you like most. Post it on my comments again. = 1 entry

Extra Credit
3.  Follow me on Twitter (@HotlegsRunner) and leave a comment that you already do. = 1 entry

4.  Follow Go Girl Sport on Twitter (@gogirlsport) and leave a comment that you already do. = 1 entry
5.  Like the Hotlegs Runner on FACEBOOK and leave a comment that you already do. = 1 entry
6.  Like Go Girl Sport on FACEBOOK, post on their wall saying Hotlegs Runner sent ya, and leave a comment here that lets me know that you did. = 1 entry
7.  Post the link to this giveaway on your blog, Twitter and/or Facebook linking back to here.  Let me know when you've spread the word. Leave a comment for EACH. = 3 entries
8.  Add me to your blog roll. = 1 entry 

9.  Blog about Go Girl Sport and include the link to your blog post in the comments. = 1 entry

Good luck!
Disclaimer:  I did not pay for this Go Girl Sport Products  They were sent to me and in exchange, I post an honest review of it.  I was not compensated nor was I encouraged by the manufacturer to post a positive review.  This review is based solely on my experience with this product.

iFitness Belt Winner & This Week's Roundup

So, I fell asleep last night and forgot to post this so here goes...

212 entries for this giveaway! Wow! Looks like everyone wants this awesome belt around their waist, ey?  In case, you didn't win here, do purchase one online.  I assure you it's worth every penny. 

And now, without further adieu...the winner of the iFitness Belt is....

#66 Running Librarian @ Running Slowly to the Finish

Congratulations!  Shoot me an email to claim your prize!

Thanks to everyone who joined and watch out for my next giveaway this coming week =)

 

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End of the Week Roundup

Here's a roundup of the week's postings all in one place in case you missed any of them!

• It's heeeeeeereee!  Look What Finally Arrived...

• Race Review & Recap: 13.1 Los Angeles - My very first race event for the year!

• Yikes! Almost an Accident with a cyclist.

Almost an Accident

It would've been my very first running accident, but I'm glad I was spared.

I just got back from my speedwork on the trail today.  I've always been careful especially after a runner died when she got hit by a cyclist last year in Dallas.

 Katy Trail. Our trail "kindda" looks like this.

Here's what happened...

During my second 1600meter TT, I wanted to shift to the other side of the trail coz the road had a slight slope and my body was leaning to the right to some degree already -- don't want no ITB!

Before shifting to the left I turned my head 90 degrees to the left (my eyes even further back as much as it could) to see if there were any cyclists behind me.  I swear to you...

I. DID. NOT. SEE. ANYONE. BEHIND. ME.

So I slowly inched my way to the left side of the road and when I was halfway there I heard a guy screaming...

yO...YO...YOO......YOOO!!!!!

And then I saw him from the corner of my eye...a cyclist...and we almost collided!  He was just inches away from me and I saw him swerve to the left while I pulled myself to the right side.

My immediate reaction was to say..."OH SORRY!"

But he continued down the road.  Not saying anything or even looking back. He was on a road bike, wearing a T- shirt, shorts and no helmet. 

As I finished my run I couldn't help but think if it was entirely my fault.  I was careful.  I was not listening to music.  I did check if anyone was behind me before crossing.  I even freakin' apologized.

I'm not a cyclist (yet!) so correct me if I'm wrong, but, wasn't he supposed to shout out "on your left!" when he was meters away from me.   I'd surely like to know coz I wouldn't want to hurt a runner while on my bike in the future... =(

We all hear horror stories of car drivers killing cyclists and cyclists colliding with runners.  When I drive my car, I'm very careful when there are cyclists around. Shouldn't cyclists be cautious around runners too since bicycles are considered vehicles as well?  We runners don't stand a chance. =(

I'm not pointing my finger at anyone here.  Just sharing my experience, my thoughts and questions.  I'd love to hear yours.

Posts you might have missed this week:

Look What Finally Arrived...

Gear Review & Giveaway: iFitness Belt 

Race Review & Recap: 13.1 Los Angeles

Race Review & Recap: 13.1 Los Angeles

Last Sunday (Jan. 16) was my very first race event for 2011 and my 5th half marathon.  I won the race entry to this (The 13.1 Series - Los Angeles) at a giveaway hosted by Thad, the Runner Dude.  Thank you, Thad!

To Race or not to race?  That was the question!

On my post last week, I wasn't sure if I should race it or treat it as a long run.  My marathon training sched says I need to do 18 miles for my long run. So after the 13.1, I had to do another 5 miles after.  The decision came as soon as the race started.  I decided to race it.  The adrenaline rush took over!  Did a 2:30 Galloway. 2K run and 30 sec walk interval.

The Trip
LA is about an hour from our place so I was up by 4am and we were on the road by 5:15am.  We got a little lost finding a gas station so I could pee!  I don't like porta-potties, you see.  But, we made it to the start line just in time.  I was there about 10 minutes before the gun went off.

The Start
The weather was perfect at 7am and I'm glad I wore a thin top and a running skirt instead of tights (Thank you Go Girl Sport for my race outfit!) coz it got really warm later on!

I read a review saying that last year, there was no national anthem.  For this year, there was a musician playing it on his trumpet...or maybe a sax...oh I dunno, it was some wind instrument.  I really didn't see.  Just heard.   He was kindda out of tune (sadly) when he was (trying) to hit the high notes. =(  But, we still cheered him on. =)  Also, unlike last year, the race this year started on time.  At exactly 7:13.  Why 7:13?  13 coz it's a 13.1 mile race.  Get it? =)

Mile 1
This was my only favorite part, sad to say.  On your right you get an awesome view of the beach.  It was kindda cool running along Venice Beach. However, even before you complete mile 1, when you turn left on Venice Blvd., the beach view is gone. Boo!

Mile 2 - 13.1
Ok, I'm not in a hurry but there really isn't much to tell.

It was basically and out and back course: "start and end along the shores of the Santa Monica Bay, and head south to the world famous Venice Beach area before heading east along Venice Boulevard into Mar Vista and Palms before turning around at Culver City and returning along the same west side of Los Angeles communities to finish up at Windward Circle in Venice." 

I had to look down a lot of times coz there were a lot of cracks and potholes on the road.  I remember amusing myself by looking at the contemporary apartment buildings and by people watching.  I don't do this a lot but I had to amuse myself somehow, right?  Just some of what I remember seeing (and smelling!)...

• The first placer (not surprised that it was a Kenyan) on his way back while I was just in mile 4.5 (7.35KM)

• A stroller running mama pushing with her left hand and waving her right hand wildly in front of her face...me wondering why...and then it hit me seconds after...BAM!  Someone let go off one helluva stinker!  Phew!  Whattya have for breakfast?!

• 2 blonde men who were also identical twins running side by side in perfect synchronicity.

• A 70+ or even 80 (I kid you not) year old woman passing me at mile 10.  What the?

• A barefoot runner avoiding the cracks, potholes and loose asphalt on the road.

• Darth Vader and Austin Powers by the finish line.

My rating for this race is... 4 HOT LEGS!

What I Loved:

1. Okay for someone could pick up your race packet - very convenient since it was near Mike's work.
2. Technical shirt - Finally a shirt that fits me!

3. Mile Markers and Timers - who doesn't love these?
4. Corral Start - didn't expect this but was happy to see there were.
5. Running by the beach - even if it was just for a few minutes.
6. Port-a-potties - though I didn't need to use one, I did see a lot.
7. Spectator and Crowd support -  there were bands, fire-eaters and cheerleaders.
8. Lots of Post Race Food and Drink at the finish line - Burp!
9. Medal - that little oval where you see the 13.1..it spins! woah! :p

Pretzels, oranges, bananas, gatorade and food trucks for the hungry runners

Suggested improvements for next year...

1. Route - would be nice to run longer by the beach
2. Hydration Stations - though they were plenty, I suggest having one on both sides

This is only the second year of 13.1 Series in Los Angeles and comparing the reviews from last year, I could say they've improved.  Definitely a good turnout for year 2 -- there were more runners this year compared to it's first year in 2010.

That said, considering that it's a small event, it was pretty okay.  I can't really complain since I didn't have to pay the $65 or $80 race fee.  Also, I didn't expect a lot since I knew it was a relatively new event.  There's still a lot of room for improvement here -- 13.1 LA has a lot of potential to become a really big and fun event with each year getting better (and bigger!).

For those thinking of running this, here are my tips:

1.  wear shorts/running skirt, tank top, visor, and sunglasses - it's suppose to be winter still but it got really warm.

2.  bring your own hydration belt - only if you're thirsty all the time like me.  Even if they have a lot of hydration stations, there were not on both sides.  And again, it got warm so I got thirsty easily.

3.  bring your own energy gel - there weren't any.

4.  don't expect much, just try to enjoy - be happy that you're running another day.  Smile and cheer on other runners.

5.  bring cash for parking - we were lucky to find a free spot somewhere near the finish line to park but I read you have to pay $8 - $10 for parking.  Have the cash and correct change since (I also read) the machine doesn't accept $20 dollar bills.

Well that's it!  Oh yeah, I almost forgot...

I PRed!!!

My last time was 2:24 (Disney Half Marathon, Sept. 2010) and for this race, my time was 2:18 according to my Garmin.  Unfortunately, the race results are not out yet.

Anyhoo...6 minute PR, baybehhhh!  Thank you, God! Woohoo!

Mike and I drove to The Promenade so we could sit and eat peacefully.  We had yummy Persian food!

 Beef, chicken, fish and lots of rice! :p

Click HERE for more photos!
Other Photo Credits: ASIphotos

Posts you might have missed this week:

Look What Finally Arrived...

Gear Review & Giveaway: iFitness Belt

Gear Review and Giveaway: iFitness Belt

No bouncing, riding up, and chafing.
The claim of the iFitness belt.
I must agree. These are all true!

Neoprene Double Pouch Grey w/ Pink Zip

GREY POUCH WITH PINK ZIPPER Water resistant double pouch will keep your iPhone or Blackberry safe from rain or sweat. A second pouch will keep your energy gels,keys or camera, separate from your phone. An inner pocket will hold your ID and credit cards safely. Two reflector strips in the front for your night time runs. This belt will not bounce, chafe or ride up while you run!

Our runner’s accessories are made of the highest quality materials available to enhance performance without compromising comfort for runners and athletes alike.

My Review

The flat, long and wide shape and elastic material of the iFitness Belt makes it possible for my iphone, keys, GU, credit card, and ID to all fit in this belt.  And... you could still add more stuff!  I love the double pouch coz I can separate my keys from my phone so my phone won't get scratched.  Also, since the pouches are flat, it rests nicely on my lower tummy. And it fits snuggly around my waist, thanks to the adjustable waistband.  Hence, no bouncing and riding up!

Another feature of this belt that I love are the two reflector strips on the side.  Perfect for my dusk and night runs!

This belt has already been with me to so many of my runs, gym workouts...and also during shopping!  Haha!  Yes, I was wearing this during Black Friday last year because I wanted to keep my hands free and I didn't want to carry my big heavy purse.  See, it's not only for running! =)

Would I recommend this?  The answer would be a 100% YES!  I love my iFitness belt and I would like to give you the chance to win one!

Giveaway

Thanks to Hailey of iFitness Belt, one lucky reader will win an iFitness Belt of his/her choice!

Please note that this is open to ANYONE. They will ship a belt "anywhere in the world".  Woohoo!  Isn't that awesome?!

I will announce the winner this coming Sunday, Jan. 23.

Please remember to leave a SEPARATE comment for EACH of the things below.  1 comment = 1 entry.  I suggest you do everything specified below to increase your chances of winning.  If you do all 11, that's 11 entries!

Mandatory:

1.  Must be a FOLLOWER of my blog. I'm doing this because it's my way of thanking you for being one! =) Click the Follow button located at my right sidebar. And let me know that you are following already by posting a comment here like, "I am a follower" .  I am always happy to see new people following. = 1 entry

2.  Visit the iFitness Website. Let me know which of their products you like most. Post it on my comments again. = 1 entry

Extra Credit
3.  Follow me on Twitter (@HotlegsRunner) and leave a comment that you already do. = 1 entry
4.  Follow iFitness on Twitter (@iFitnessRunning) and leave a comment that you already do. = 1 entry
5.  Like the Hotlegs Runner on FACEBOOK and leave a comment that you already do. = 1 entry
6.  Like iFitness on FACEBOOK and leave a comment that lets me know you already do. = 1 entry
7.  Post this giveaway on your blog, Twitter and/or Facebook linking back to here.  Let me know when you've spread the word. Leave a comment for EACH. = 3 entries
8.  Add me to your blog roll. = 1 entry 

9.  Answer this: What are those little things you take with you during your runs that will fit in the iFitness belt?

Good luck!
Disclaimer:  I did not pay for this iFitness Belt.  They were sent to me and in exchange, I post an honest review of it.  I was not compensated nor was I encouraged by the manufacturer to post a positive review.  This review is based solely on my experience with this product.
 

Posts you might have missed this week:

Look What Finally Arrived...

Look What Finally Arrived...

Ok, I just need to share this...
I've been waiting for this since October and I'm so happy it's finally here!!! =)

The Lazer Tardiz Advantage Helmet I won at a giveaway hosted by Tridadoffive!  Woohoo!

Yes, it's pink and black. Hmmm I wonder why?

I think it's around $200 (not sure) so I'm happy I won one! Woot! God is good! Thank you Mark! =)

Oh and I know I still need to post my race recap and review for the 13.1 Los Angeles.  Will do so as soon as the race photos are in.  Makes it more fun to read. =)

Happy Monday, everyone! =)

GU Winner & This Week's Roundup

Got some free GU to give to one lucky reader! And that is....

#69 Crafty Jogger

at www.craftyjogger.blogspot.com

Shoot me an email with your name and address so I can send the GU your way asap!  Congratulations!

Thanks to everyone who joined and watch out for my next give away this week =)

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End of the Week Roundup

Here's a roundup of the week's postings all in one place in case you missed any of them!

• Got my Butt Kicked by a 7 Year Old! - Very cute story according to many.  Really it is! =)  

• It's okay to indulge once in a while...Foodie Friday: Burger and Beer!  

• Ran this race this morning, but first, Packet Pick-Up: 13.1 Los Angeles 

Packet Pick-up: 13.1 Los Angeles

I asked Mike to just pick up the packet for me after his work since there wasn't any expo.  So no fun expo photos this time.  Sorry.

No goody or swag bag too.  Just a shirt and my race bib (the chip is attached behind the race bib).  Boo!  However, I am very happy that I finally got a shirt that is extra small!  All the other shirts I got were too big for me.  This one fits me perfectly.

It's about an hour drive to LA from our place so I have to wake up extra early.  AND...surprisingly, it's been hot here for the past few days.  It's like summer all over again!  In the middle of January?!  Waddup?  Let's see if my body still remembers how to run a half mary in the heat just like it used to in the Philippines.

Not sure if I'm going to race this one (though a PR would be nice) or... just treat it like a long run as part of my training for my second marathon in Feb.  I still have an extra 6 miles to run after to complete the required 19 miles on my training schedule.  I've never done that before.  Have you?   Jason says I should and just do the 6 mile easy run after. You think I should race this one?

Wish me luck!  Hope everyone is having a great weekend! 

 Posts you might have missed this week:

Got my Butt Kicked by a 7 Year Old!

  Gear Review & Giveaway: GU Energy

Foodie Friday: Burger and Beer!

Foodie Friday: Burger and Beer!

Hooray, it's Friday!  This is probably the only day in the week when I "feel" it's okay for me to drink a little alcohol.  Beer or red wine - my poison.

This week, it will be beer since I had red wine last week.  I will have it for dinner and I'm pairing it with a healthier alternative to the greasy beef burger.  At least I'm making one healthy choice tonight!  Ha!  But trust me on this one... it. is. YUMMMMEHHH!  It's the mango chutney that give it that extra oomph!  Like there's a party in your mouth.

Turkey Burger w/ Mango Chutney

Ingredients
1 16- to 20-inch-long baguette or whole wheat burger buns preferably whole-grain

1 large red onion, cut into 1/4-inch-thick rounds, divided

1 pound 93%-lean ground turkey

4 tablespoons mango chutney (see Tips), divided

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 cups shredded romaine lettuce

Preparation
• Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high.

• For baguettes, cut it into 4 equal lengths. Split each piece horizontally and pull out about half of the soft bread from each side.

• Finely chop enough onion rounds to equal 1/3 cup. Combine the chopped onion with turkey, 1 tablespoon chutney and salt in a medium bowl; gently mix with your hands until well combined. Form into 4 burgers, about 1/2 inch thick and oval-shaped to match the shape of the bread. *round if using burger buns.

• Oil the grill rack (see Tips) or grill pan. Grill the remaining onion rounds until softened and blackened in spots, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Grill the burgers until cooked through and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 165°F, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Grill the bread, cut-side down, until just beginning to char on the edges, about 2 minutes.

• To assemble sandwiches, spread the remaining mango chutney on the bottom pieces of baguette. Top with a turkey burger, grilled onion and lettuce. Cover with the remaining bread.

Tips & Notes
• Look for prepared mango chutney—a sweet, tangy and spicy condiment—near other Indian ingredients in the international aisle at most supermarkets.
• To oil a grill rack, oil a folded paper towel, hold it with tongs and rub it over the rack. (Do not use cooking spray on a hot grill.)
adapted from from eatingwell.com

Enjoy!  Oops but first, a tempo run! =) 
Happy Friday everyone!

What's your poison?

What are you doing this Friday?

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