tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66566481580065167312024-03-05T19:23:39.839-05:00Strength OdysseyMy ever-changing lifeAnne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-27756456073096753712012-08-19T15:18:00.000-04:002012-08-19T15:18:04.728-04:00A 'Real Winner"<div style="text-align: center;">
I was always told that I was a 'real winner', growing up. Of course this was sarcastic. LOL</div>
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By 'real winner', she meant a little 'odd'.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, once again, I have won a giveaway!!!!!!</span> </div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">WoooHooo</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>This time, I won a giveaway from this great blog: </strong></span><a href="http://katiemoves.com/"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong> <span style="color: magenta;">Katie Moves</span></strong></span></a><span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;"><strong>.</strong></span></div>
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I love this blog. You have to check her out. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioy4IbSnq6gXGBTPzy6xa8Qt6OA9fDYLH8HXyZHuIe7ZmtzsXGsXgZdkQ4zJBHiw75w49whH7oq0rjTmcBPewr8fq8O_hg4Aj5uIP3eOlfFktFADvSbt-Zvu7x8ddKLsMUtVNfPUxtooo/s1600/IMG-20120814-00318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioy4IbSnq6gXGBTPzy6xa8Qt6OA9fDYLH8HXyZHuIe7ZmtzsXGsXgZdkQ4zJBHiw75w49whH7oq0rjTmcBPewr8fq8O_hg4Aj5uIP3eOlfFktFADvSbt-Zvu7x8ddKLsMUtVNfPUxtooo/s320/IMG-20120814-00318.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I won a Soy PRotein package and check out her <a href="http://katiemoves.com/2012/08/02/soy-protein/"><span style="color: magenta;">original blog</span></a> about it, because my family stole some of the goodies, as I was opening the package.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ20x5js4u7Je1puT13cZ0GwK11VzhMWoRXCT7lmSB6ZJwTcANHRddU1RpHC2C7q15ItxNcpRkqGn0tR41qoNVm1GT7Cumz42LBcQPtmA5TBtlf1mKA-TqiP_JdNdz4iVE39OvfZSePIQb/s1600/IMG-20120814-00319.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ20x5js4u7Je1puT13cZ0GwK11VzhMWoRXCT7lmSB6ZJwTcANHRddU1RpHC2C7q15ItxNcpRkqGn0tR41qoNVm1GT7Cumz42LBcQPtmA5TBtlf1mKA-TqiP_JdNdz4iVE39OvfZSePIQb/s320/IMG-20120814-00319.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzo6Ku2Mvk-3qHwHXLKaNAzDk2kgnC6DjjZzYfPZ88oKVZTHnSGvYcDU3Dy-0vIMHYm72ZFWPFWzL9DPG2uj1O_DGhfOFzYosWABuI1FUY9NhclZ7b8l92c3cLpGw-HyswGxkyUz-TG7F8/s1600/IMG-20120815-00326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzo6Ku2Mvk-3qHwHXLKaNAzDk2kgnC6DjjZzYfPZ88oKVZTHnSGvYcDU3Dy-0vIMHYm72ZFWPFWzL9DPG2uj1O_DGhfOFzYosWABuI1FUY9NhclZ7b8l92c3cLpGw-HyswGxkyUz-TG7F8/s320/IMG-20120815-00326.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't mind the pic of the hamburger in the background. Have no idea what this was!<br />
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I received:</div>
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-an awesome huge shaker cup (LOVE IT!)</div>
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-a workout parachute + dvd + poster (can't wait to try it out!!!!)</div>
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-a huge soy protein bag</div>
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-2 exercise bands</div>
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-2 <a href="http://www.balance.com/"><span style="color: magenta;">Balance Bar</span></a> protein bars (I was lucky enough to eat the s'mores bare pic'd above, but the hubs stole the other as I opened the box) YUMMMMM</div>
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-a package of <a href="http://www.premiernutrition.com/titan-protein-cookies.html"><span style="color: magenta;">Titan</span></a> 2 choc chip protein cookies (the teen stole one, but I did get the other )HOLY CRAP, GOODNESS</div>
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-a container of vanilla soy protein from<span style="color: magenta;"> </span><a href="http://gnc.com/"><span style="color: magenta;">GNC</span></a> (great, but I'm saving for cooking with!)</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">THANKS<span style="color: magenta;"> </span></span><a href="http://katiemoves.com/"><span style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large;">KATIE</span></a><span style="font-size: x-large;">!!!!!!!</span></div>
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Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-33771410296990499842012-08-14T21:05:00.000-04:002012-08-14T21:05:27.891-04:00GoodBelly Winner!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
OK, so I hate to lead you on, but <span style="font-size: large;">I was the winner</span>. </div>
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I received some vouchers for this awesome brand. I can pick what I want out of a great selection of Probiotic juices!! SWEET. </div>
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As stated by <a href="https://twitter.com/GoodBellyDrink"><span style="color: magenta;">GoodBelly:</span></a> "<span style="font-size: large;">GoodBelly is a vegan, dairy-free and soy-free probiotic drink with live & active probiotic cultures for digestive health."</span> Check out more info on this company and its products: <a href="http://www.goodbelly.com/"><span style="color: magenta;">here.</span></a></div>
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With flavors like: </div>
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<strong>Pomegranate Blackberry, </strong></div>
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<strong>Bluebery Acai, </strong></div>
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<strong>CRanberry Watermelon, </strong></div>
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<strong>Tropical Green and </strong></div>
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<strong>Tropical Orange (+ more),</strong> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">how can I not be dying to try them?!</span></div>
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I entered a giveaway from<span style="color: magenta;"> </span><a href="https://twitter.com/kissmybroccoli"><span style="color: magenta;">KissMyBroccoli</span></a> and won! Check out her website<span style="color: magenta;"> </span><a href="http://www.kissmybroccoliblog.com/"><span style="color: magenta;">here.</span></a></div>
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Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-79741617224307947472012-08-10T15:45:00.003-04:002012-08-10T15:49:24.013-04:00Surprises in the mail!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">I came home one day last week and had a nice yellow package in the mailbox.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I LOVE packages!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Baby Girl helped me open and check it out.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzOVPwWqeotbAehnSO5MJvNRLLtigtx68EYbh4cr2waa9zGS7cefW8bj_J5-RKy9Av97M9V1zL8fpL9NQXMes7aaZwOst_J-8LiWwMN8wY1ZYBXdz5EfZm1_vw15uJp3JpZ974n1bMI_VJ/s1600/IMG-20120807-00287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzOVPwWqeotbAehnSO5MJvNRLLtigtx68EYbh4cr2waa9zGS7cefW8bj_J5-RKy9Av97M9V1zL8fpL9NQXMes7aaZwOst_J-8LiWwMN8wY1ZYBXdz5EfZm1_vw15uJp3JpZ974n1bMI_VJ/s320/IMG-20120807-00287.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very interested in the business cards. :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAr2GRE4DzA6ymRKffTp2pN8Z6fYUurC9EmCxDjrzmGjQinLSDKpT2zJj6nDQMoNpo_JZrv3F1cKz1VQ52QDSz_ZPc6zrpcKcB8yejlffS6F85KZHB5m-ZpEBOnBmxZlelxyoZYGlxazv/s1600/IMG-20120807-00289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAr2GRE4DzA6ymRKffTp2pN8Z6fYUurC9EmCxDjrzmGjQinLSDKpT2zJj6nDQMoNpo_JZrv3F1cKz1VQ52QDSz_ZPc6zrpcKcB8yejlffS6F85KZHB5m-ZpEBOnBmxZlelxyoZYGlxazv/s320/IMG-20120807-00289.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't mind the junk in the background. :P</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Inside the package, I received:</span></div>
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<li>A package of G2 powder to add to my water bottle</li>
<li>2 packets of GU Energy-gel. I'm so excited to try these, since I haven't purchased any for myself yet. There was one in Jet Blackberry flavor and one in Chocolate Outrage flavor. Um? YUMMmmm</li>
<li>A new pair of pink laces!</li>
<li>A super cute yellow headband (modeled by Baby Girl)</li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I won all of this from Running Toward the Prize! Check her blog out </span><a href="http://www.runningtowardtheprize.com/"><span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">here</span></a><span style="color: magenta; font-size: large;">.</span></div>
<br />Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-16102967650888932902012-08-02T21:33:00.000-04:002012-08-02T21:33:35.503-04:00Leibster Award!!!!!<div style="border-width: 0px; margin: 5px 0px 15px; outline-width: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was just tagged to be given the Liebster Award by <a href="http://www.triathlonmami.com/"><span style="color: magenta;">Triathlon Mami</span></a>! I am super excited that someone actually reads my blog!!!!! Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I know I am just getting started and haven't been on here as much as I would like to, but it's nice to be noticed.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The <b>Liebster Award </b>is given to upcoming bloggers who have less than 200 followers.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The meaning: Liebster is German and means sweetest, kindest, nicest, dearest, beloved, lovely, kind, pleasant, valued, cute, endearing and welcome.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Rules for receiving this award<em style="font-style: italic;">:</em></span></span></h1>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Each person must post 11 things about themselves.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Then answer the questions the tagger sent for them, plus create 11 questions for the people they’ve tagged to answer.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Choose 11 people and link them in your post.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Notify the people you have tagged.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. No tag backs.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><strong>I. Here we go!</strong></em></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. I copied the above information and rules about the award from Triathlon Mami's blog. ;o</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. I have 2 wonderful daughters that are 13 years apart.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. My husband is my best friend and in many ways the male version of myself.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ITk9eCw4PJtpIBAksiqun7gN8yK-cD7fVRXnnbwSgcN-2wmHMcYJ6Rfu1xOA0PZUq0dBh7cop8HaK6WIajKKiroOkSULwHwrZevY2CPnVE0jlMnzuW3BtpGjTvVqpRW3injM9Zud0cyK/s1600/us+2.jpeg.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ITk9eCw4PJtpIBAksiqun7gN8yK-cD7fVRXnnbwSgcN-2wmHMcYJ6Rfu1xOA0PZUq0dBh7cop8HaK6WIajKKiroOkSULwHwrZevY2CPnVE0jlMnzuW3BtpGjTvVqpRW3injM9Zud0cyK/s200/us+2.jpeg.bmp" width="136" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. I am new at blogging. (obviously, so bare with me)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. My fears are falling from something really high and caterpillars. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">6. I lost a finger a couple of years ago, while 7 months pregnant.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7. My pet peve is repeating myself or hearing others repeat themselves. (just ask my husband)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">8. I still can't figure out how to put my 'sweat pink ambassador badge' on my blog page.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">9. I wanted to be an artist and accountant when I grew up and now happy to be neither.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">10. I like to listen to techno or hard alternative rock REALLY LOUD while working out.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">11. I am a Scorpio by all definitions.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em> II. Questions for me:</em></strong></span></div>
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<ol><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>1. Why did you start blogging?</em></strong></span> To make myself accountable for my fitness goals. Without a competition to reach for, I felt that I didn't dedicate myself enough and thought that if I was announcing them to others, then I'd stick to them more.</ol>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>2. Has blogging changed you in any way?</em></strong></span> I read more blogs and spend more time on the computer. <br />
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<strong><em>3. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What is your favorite place on Earth?</span></em></strong> At the beach with my family. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhfWx3eR48tj0GFIrMJvFtZFY-W36LhJetQc3URjF5nSV90WVqXtkAHCj4KYkAkBjZKkv3tlXs0LZuEVbs1HWFgLREe7fCVPd-0CCY9tr8GbKg91A0BbAMiu2XRKHydABuRsXeB7A_18Vw/s1600/IMG-20120624-00119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhfWx3eR48tj0GFIrMJvFtZFY-W36LhJetQc3URjF5nSV90WVqXtkAHCj4KYkAkBjZKkv3tlXs0LZuEVbs1HWFgLREe7fCVPd-0CCY9tr8GbKg91A0BbAMiu2XRKHydABuRsXeB7A_18Vw/s320/IMG-20120624-00119.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>4. If you were stuck on a desert island with only one book, what would it be?</em></strong></span> I haven't read a 'real' book in years. I search through fitness books and read children's books. I can't give a title, but I'd say some kind of National GEographic nature encyclopedia or something.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>5. What living person inspires you most? Why?</em></strong></span> My oldest daughter. We have been through some tough times together and she amazes me every day. She is becoming such a wonderful and strong woman. We don't know how truly strong we can be, until we have to, especially for our children.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxHnmzDnNGazNjJS_Se9yuluKWczGlLaTI3r4eQ9oEnKnHrbWbtcVfSCAVfrOuV1OWoM3tXCAo87iudWUJEdmqIw5EmUXXd6S8yzRfDi5i1qZE5sh1xz0IuQWxt_7F8EQvDd8_2z9TchYy/s1600/b+w+xmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxHnmzDnNGazNjJS_Se9yuluKWczGlLaTI3r4eQ9oEnKnHrbWbtcVfSCAVfrOuV1OWoM3tXCAo87iudWUJEdmqIw5EmUXXd6S8yzRfDi5i1qZE5sh1xz0IuQWxt_7F8EQvDd8_2z9TchYy/s320/b+w+xmas.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>6. What historical person inspires you most? Why?</em></strong></span> I hate to admit it, but I can't think of anyone right now. I'll probably wake up at 2am and wish I'd answered differently. LOL <br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>7. If you were able to have a superpower what would it be?</em></strong></span> To fly, so if I ever did fall from something really high, then I wouldn't go splat. <br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>8. What do you wish you could master?</em></strong></span> Knive throwing<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><strong>9. What do you do to relax?</strong></em></span> What the heck is that!!!! My 'me time' is training, so I'd have to say that the 1/2 hr that I squeeze in whenever I can is my 'relax' time. Years ago.....I'd paint, sketch, craft, cross stitch or cuddle up under a big blanket and watch movies.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em><strong>10. What is your favorite part of the day?</strong></em></span> Coming home to my family. Right now, the baby gets so excited when I come home. <br />
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<strong><em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: small;"><em><strong>11</strong></em></span>. </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Think fast! What is the first thing you can think of to bring a smile to your face?</span></em></strong> My family!!!!! All I have to do is see their faces. I couldn't live without them!!!!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5b1spEpRk8B4j-pBqBgJsQW3PUF6Eose9OqxH7c8jKdL2seenZpYBELlBitQ3A4ab4rRkMRR86JQXD__EogVmcw3djmQbVe2yAILT40Ga1aUeSavf6Hi7vy0YCXHJ8inf1xWPPXCZ-w8c/s1600/Holiday+2011-10+-+Copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5b1spEpRk8B4j-pBqBgJsQW3PUF6Eose9OqxH7c8jKdL2seenZpYBELlBitQ3A4ab4rRkMRR86JQXD__EogVmcw3djmQbVe2yAILT40Ga1aUeSavf6Hi7vy0YCXHJ8inf1xWPPXCZ-w8c/s320/Holiday+2011-10+-+Copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Babies!</td></tr>
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<em><strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">III. Questions for the next group:</span></strong></em></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">1. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">2. What's your favorite exercise?</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">3. What's the one thing that you can't live without?</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">4. If the world were to end tomorrow, would there be anything that you wish you'd done?</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">5. Do you have a unique talent?</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">6. As a kid what did you want to be when you grew up?</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">7. Has your blogging style changed, since you started blogging?</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">8. What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given?</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">9. What gives you strength?</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">10. Burpees. Love em or hate em?</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">11. Neat freak or organized mess?</span></em></strong></div>
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<strong><em><span style="font-family: Arial;">IV. Yay!!! The following have received the Liebster Award! CONGRATS! </span></em></strong></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Since I still don't know a whole lot about blogging, hopefully I found the Bloggers' follower numbers correctly.)</span></div>
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<a href="http://zerototwentysixpointtwo.blogspot.com/" target="post"><span style="color: #0b5394;">0to26point2</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://mnelson4jc.blogspot.com/" target="post"><span style="color: #0b5394;">A HOPEFUL Romantic dealing with the "BIG C"</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://cookiesandcrafts.wordpress.com/" target="post"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Cookies and Crafts</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.pushpumpprogress.com/"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Push.Pump.Progress</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://getfit14.blogspot.com/" target="post"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Scott's musings on health, fitness, and life.</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://musclesin.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Strong is the New Skinny</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://crazyhealthyfit.com/"><span style="color: #0b5394;">crazyhealthyfit.com</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://mymostlyhealthylife.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #0b5394;">My (Mostly) Healthy Life</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://xaarlin.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Pain Is Nothing</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.shoretorun.com/"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Shore to Run</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.eatlearndiscover.com/"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Eat, Learn, Discover</span></a></div>
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</div>Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-55499042949389214722012-07-14T21:53:00.000-04:002012-07-14T21:53:47.302-04:00I SWEAT PINK!!!! Do You? Giveaway<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">I am so excited to be a new Sweat Pink Ambassador!</span></strong></div>
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<a href="http://www.fitapproach.com/about/"><strong><span style="color: magenta;">Fit Approach</span></strong></a><strong> is a healthy community, founded by two inspirational women.</strong></div>
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As said in their own words,</div>
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We believe that kicking ass is best done in pretty shoes. We’ve learned that real women sweat, and sweat hard. We know that assertiveness, strength, and ambition are the ultimate feminine qualities. We concede that sometimes it takes hours to get ready, but we’re also no strangers to just rolling out of bed and going. We’re convinced that we run faster in pink shoelaces. We believe in pushing ourselves, and we believe in giving ourselves a break, too. We’re all about the rush of endorphins and the thrill of the challenge. We’re all for looking great and feeling even better. We’re committed to finding our best fit, and making it stick.</div>
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<strong> How do we get there?<br />We climb.<br /> We journey.<br /> We balance.<br /> We reward. "</strong></div>
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<strong>UMMMM......kicking ass in pretty shoes</strong>? You've got me right there! LOL</div>
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We all need some motivation sometimes, even those who motivate others. I like to think that I motivate my clients and the participants in my classes, but I sure know that I need a good kick in the a$$ sometimes. </div>
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Just reading all of the stories and blogs on this and linked to Fit Approach, motivates and inspires me!</div>
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There are <a href="http://www.fitapproach.com/sweat-pink-ambassadors/"><span style="color: magenta;">many women</span></a> with the privilege of being Sweat Pink ambassadors and I am<a href="http://www.fitapproach.com/sweat-pink-ambassadors/anne-marie-constantine/"> <span style="color: magenta;">now one of them!</span></a></div>
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I am excited to help and inspire others to live or at least start living a healthier lifestyle.</div>
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I received my ambassador swag in the mail the other day and I am happy to say that I will be wearing my new pink laces in my next run. I also got a snazzy new tank! Woot! Woot! </div>
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<strong>Who doesn't love new workout clothes!?</strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyjZ2dYuEzgzVyZU4PHR5FghUAVgZDCFelVcJOoDlo0pRbDxdfI9JEHvpTwY2cbyHYLunJs7C-f8XTqMNxecKdQycWIWRyZJKevSBbQAUVvSDP23HcSDzz7N3X5kggCgHeOVAwxEZnywno/s1600/IMG-20120714-00187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyjZ2dYuEzgzVyZU4PHR5FghUAVgZDCFelVcJOoDlo0pRbDxdfI9JEHvpTwY2cbyHYLunJs7C-f8XTqMNxecKdQycWIWRyZJKevSBbQAUVvSDP23HcSDzz7N3X5kggCgHeOVAwxEZnywno/s320/IMG-20120714-00187.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">I'm giving away 3 pairs of pink laces!</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">To enter:</span></strong></div>
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<strong>1. Follow me <a href="https://twitter.com/strengthodyssey"><span style="color: magenta;">StrengthOdyssey</span></a> on Twitter.</strong></div>
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<strong>2. Comment below on how you'd like to inspire others or how someone has inspired you in a healthy or fit way! </strong></div>
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<strong>For extra entries:</strong></div>
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<strong>1. Like<a href="https://www.facebook.com/#!/FitApproach"> <span style="color: magenta;">Fit Approach</span></a> on FB.</strong></div>
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<strong>2. Follow<span style="color: magenta;"> </span><a href="https://twitter.com/FitApproach"><span style="color: magenta;">Fit Approach</span></a> on Twitter.</strong></div>
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<strong>Leave me with a separate comment below for each entry.</strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">I'm keeping this open until next Saturday the 21st. Let's see how many people I can get to read my blog!!!!</span></strong></div>
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<br /></div>Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-39645152618298054782012-07-05T14:28:00.000-04:002012-08-10T15:50:08.195-04:00Nirvana Sneaker Review<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have finally been able to try out my new sneakers!!!!!!</span></div>
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I was lucky enough to be invited to take part in an awesome opportunity. I received a pair of Mizuno sneakers as part of the Mezamashii Run Project.</div>
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I found out about the Mezamashii Run Project through my friend <a href="http://milesmusclesmommyhood.blogspot.com/"><span style="color: orange;">Jen.</span></a> </div>
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'Mezamashii' means "eye-opening" or "brilliant" in Japanese.</div>
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In Mizuno's words:</div>
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<em><u>Mizuno believes their shoes can help runners achieve the mezamashii feeling more often, so they're inviting thousands of runners to receive a free pair of shoes and join their quest for the brilliant run.</u></em></div>
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Check out more information on <a href="http://www.mizunousa.com/mezamashiirunproject/login"><span style="color: orange;">The Mezamashii Run Project.</span></a></div>
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I called the 800 # that I found on the Mizuno site and spoke with someone who helped me choose the correct sneaker for me.</div>
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I was really glad that customer service was as awesome as it was, because I have never tried out Mizunos. They aren't common at most shoe stores and I don't usually go to the specialty stores (but I should). I picked the <a href="http://www.mizunousa.com/running/products/mizuno-womens-wave-nirvana-8-running-shoes"><span style="color: orange;">Wave Nirvana 8.</span></a> </div>
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I chose this particular sneaker, because my feet overpronate. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I received the sneakers by mail 2 DAYS LATER!!!!</span> I was so excited to try them out. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwz7BT7Z8rBShyyjrY8gU4nUyL38v1H6QlUoiSK9pw3H4Ja3NKOqRair-5ic0V5DVhXDevLkiCaetMot7IQmPOJlBZV_HQ71qGKecBGGmI8A41rzBTV8N4X7A0fswbvMFYAoRMvjGtmUdb/s1600/IMG-20120619-00099.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwz7BT7Z8rBShyyjrY8gU4nUyL38v1H6QlUoiSK9pw3H4Ja3NKOqRair-5ic0V5DVhXDevLkiCaetMot7IQmPOJlBZV_HQ71qGKecBGGmI8A41rzBTV8N4X7A0fswbvMFYAoRMvjGtmUdb/s320/IMG-20120619-00099.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6qQXuidihExIlCrb0D6NpVUTXzvBzMri9msqJFNqvEAkuyOgw5dOPmWyZn6KktLkWYtOyR_Mm4ZWIe70-MXv12QEN6cRojBZIA0A20pYS5HjHdUt2r-lJNUcv7dMrPM54xF8Po7ANYI_b/s1600/IMG-20120619-00100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6qQXuidihExIlCrb0D6NpVUTXzvBzMri9msqJFNqvEAkuyOgw5dOPmWyZn6KktLkWYtOyR_Mm4ZWIe70-MXv12QEN6cRojBZIA0A20pYS5HjHdUt2r-lJNUcv7dMrPM54xF8Po7ANYI_b/s320/IMG-20120619-00100.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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And then the rain began. I was not going to take my brand spankin new sneakers out in the rain.</div>
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My daily schedule only leaves me a few mornings per week to get out and run, so I'm limited to begin with.</div>
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Then there's rain.</div>
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And then the baby got sick. :( </div>
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It took me a while to get out and run in my new sneaks.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Last Sunday......I was finally able to get out and run!!!!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Woo HOo!!!!</span> </div>
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I love my early morning runs <em>(even on Sunday, although my husband may not love that I get up so early LOL</em>). This way there isn't much traffic, the temp is still cool outside and I can get home and usually shower before the rest of the family gets up .</div>
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: x-large;">LOVE THE SHOES!!!!!!</span> </u></strong></div>
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<strong>I sometimes have a little nagging knee pain from my overpronation and these shoes changed that.</strong> I thought they kind of looked a little funny at first <em>(kind of like those 'toning' sneakers :P</em>). But that look is only on the inner part of the sneaker, where I need the support. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMc2nX-4uRTZvrt2UMmz0-zGJS13KlDn2RaY-pWXEX9pJDyP5y1nzV8U0UBLHvMjQ0bB8IoByO2coc-kGAGWan8T22AoBfnGCk6e6eCux26mXec9fUsmV6UHzKoZ79KJBLZT31N8qiPp4M/s1600/IMG-20120620-00113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMc2nX-4uRTZvrt2UMmz0-zGJS13KlDn2RaY-pWXEX9pJDyP5y1nzV8U0UBLHvMjQ0bB8IoByO2coc-kGAGWan8T22AoBfnGCk6e6eCux26mXec9fUsmV6UHzKoZ79KJBLZT31N8qiPp4M/s320/IMG-20120620-00113.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<strong>They felt like little clouds on my feet. Sooooooo comfy and I only ran 3 miles, but they stayed super comfy. I didn't want to take them off, but they must be saved for running only.</strong></div>
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<strong>I love the color combo. Pink is one of my fave colors.</strong></div>
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<strong>Another added bonus: I didn't have to double knot my shoes. I ALWAYS have to double knot them, even when they are brandy new.</strong> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I can honestly say that these Mizuno sneakers are my favorites so far EVER. I am honored to be part of the Project</span>.</div>
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Everyone! Go check out the <a href="http://www.mizunousa.com/mezamashiirunproject/login"><span style="color: orange;">Mezamashii Run Project</span></a>. At the very least, make sure you give <a href="http://www.mizunousa.com/running"><span style="color: orange;">Mizuno</span></a> a try the next time you need running sneakers!!!!!!!</div>
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<br />Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-45973969610847731052012-06-22T21:17:00.005-04:002012-06-22T21:17:44.473-04:00NEW SNEAKS!!!!!<div style="text-align: center;">
I was so freaking excited earlier this week. </div>
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I came home from my longest work day (roughly 14 hours) and found that a package had arrived for me. </div>
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What was it?!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">NEW SNEAKERS!!!!</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_uH7bHJQN0SMzQ0E-orq0RthpQp75rZGf9Y39Qxgx0_-3oqNOcP-aC3-CwY5eVdZ080xWPnlVN0CqhqIK9GXCpG26wpyY38jyxF1VU9xyStVDp1J6934PECSCAVImX-1Y0xsJm5niy7ZS/s1600/IMG-20120619-00102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_uH7bHJQN0SMzQ0E-orq0RthpQp75rZGf9Y39Qxgx0_-3oqNOcP-aC3-CwY5eVdZ080xWPnlVN0CqhqIK9GXCpG26wpyY38jyxF1VU9xyStVDp1J6934PECSCAVImX-1Y0xsJm5niy7ZS/s200/IMG-20120619-00102.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ5-PBG-ozrpq47-GiTofBtFGgWFeA-Czul1H0KrAWHvTQWuk9whqgD6LAxetPazGaZ7NBWFLFAu5TcxSi9gWdS3oalAL13ZmtNFFNgbI86vQV2soQrI2sLSdnop48oOy2FExNdsl-O3ds/s1600/IMG-20120619-00100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ5-PBG-ozrpq47-GiTofBtFGgWFeA-Czul1H0KrAWHvTQWuk9whqgD6LAxetPazGaZ7NBWFLFAu5TcxSi9gWdS3oalAL13ZmtNFFNgbI86vQV2soQrI2sLSdnop48oOy2FExNdsl-O3ds/s320/IMG-20120619-00100.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ella was excited to try them out too!</td></tr>
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I have never tried a pair of Mizunos and was totally psyched to get into these.</div>
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A problem arose. Ella got sick the day after they arrived and I haven't been able to get in a run since.</div>
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Looks like Sunday will be THE DAY. My husband just loves the fact that I get up by 5:30am on a Sunday. Hey! Could be 4:30, like it has to be on weekdays, to get my run in.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkcwa891TqBqmVIziVqTwi6-Ec-DGFPOoSzxoYaaXKs1sal67abdBLA62AVs3-R2qEg6J_1dNIQjOw5XOgfBOp6gB4YkVVk0dXp6OIZLv2oU6c18LBR-v5BwqKamnogFTpfVg8SO68DcJV/s1600/IMG-20120620-00113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkcwa891TqBqmVIziVqTwi6-Ec-DGFPOoSzxoYaaXKs1sal67abdBLA62AVs3-R2qEg6J_1dNIQjOw5XOgfBOp6gB4YkVVk0dXp6OIZLv2oU6c18LBR-v5BwqKamnogFTpfVg8SO68DcJV/s320/IMG-20120620-00113.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I always go for the sneaker color scheme closest to pink/gray, if there is that option.</div>
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This sneaker, the Mizuno Nirvana, only came in one color scheme. It was my usual fav!</div>
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I have to point out that these<span style="font-size: large;"> sneakers have the same color scheme as my blog</span>: pink, gray, black, white, and just a little bit of orange. <strong>SERIOUSLY!?</strong> It has to be fate. Right?</div>
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Stay tuned for my review and more details!!!!!!!!!</div>
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<br /></div>Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-54324231421158122282012-06-19T21:54:00.002-04:002012-06-19T21:54:44.437-04:00What a LOVELY day!<div style="text-align: center;">
Today was like most Saturdays. I worked from 7am to 1pm and then returned home to swap off parenting duties with my husband, so he could go to work and then I ran around until the baby's bed time. I spent time with both my girls and that is all I need</div>
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(of course, until the hubby returns home ;P).</div>
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I am sitting down checking my emails, FB, Twitter, blog, etc and what do I find?!?!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A nomination for the ONE LOVELY BLOG AWARD!!!!!!!!</span> </div>
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My friend Jen at <a href="http://milesmusclesmommyhood.blogspot.com/">MILES MUSCLES AND MOMMYHOOD</a> nominated me. </div>
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WOW!!!!! I am so excited.</div>
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It's great to be recognized and very motivating. </div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>The <i>One Lovely Blog
Award</i> is a "pay it forward" kind of way to recognize your favorite
blogs. </strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Here are
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>1. Post
the award logo and and picture on your blog and link back to the person who
nominated you.</strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>2. Tell
seven things about yourself.</strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>3.
Nominate up to 15 additional bloggers who you think deserve the
award.</strong></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>4. Post
a comment on the blog of each nominee to tell them him/her they have been
nominated.</strong></span></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">1. I use to be 'stalked' years ago by this girl named </span></strong><a href="http://milesmusclesmommyhood.blogspot.com/"><strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">Jen.</span></strong></a><strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;"> LOL</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">Now, SHE inspires me. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">2. Not a lot of people notice or know this, but I 'lost' a finger a couple of years ago, while 7 months pregnant. No, not just the tip. No not just the first knuckle. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">I have just enough of a stub to hold change in my hand, but not enough to get in the way.</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">3. I have two daughters that are 13 years apart. For some reason, I thought this would be easier, since there is such an age gap. One has just started walking and the other doesn't have a license yet. WHOA!!!!! What was I thinking. I wouldn't change a thing. Love them to pieces.</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="color: magenta;"><span style="background-color: white;">4. I JUST realized that i've left a batch of cookies in the oven for about 45 minutes! MY HUSBAND IS GOING TO FREAK WHEN HE WALKS IN THE DOOR! He hates the smell of burnt stuff. (<em>but I love slightly burnt rice cakes and popcorn. is that weird?)</em></span></span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">I am making them for a 'father's day gift', but really just because I needed an excuse for my craving. Well, less to go in the cupboard. </span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">5. I love to paint, sew, craft, cook and workout. None of which I have a lot of time for. The necessities win. Cooking <em>(because I can't starve my family)</em> and working out <em>(because I NEED to or i'll go absolutely crazy)</em> win.</span></strong></div>
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<span style="color: magenta;"><span style="background-color: white;"><strong>6. I am really new at this whole blogging thing.</strong> <strong><span style="font-size: large;">Follow at your own risk</span>.</strong></span></span></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">For some reason (which I can't figure out) when I preview this post, it's messed up. Sorry. I even 'followed' myself and don't know how to undo it.</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">7. The first half marathon that i've been training for, filled up. :(</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">I am still training, but wondering if everything happens for a reason.</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: magenta;">I've just started teaching a morning Plyo Bootcamp class twice per week and have cut some of my run days, but my booty and legs are really loving the class intructing!</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: orange; font-size: large;">My Nominees are: (<em>drumroll please</em>)</span></strong></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: orange;"> </span></strong><strong><span style="background-color: white; color: orange;">1. </span><a href="http://cookiesandcrafts.wordpress.com/"><span style="background-color: white; color: orange;">Cookies and Crafts</span></a></strong></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: orange;"> This girl Katie gives such an eclectic, homey, comfy, down to earth feeling to her blog. She makes me smile, because in many ways, she reminds me of myself. I enjoy reading her posts very much.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; color: orange;"> </span></strong><strong><span style="background-color: white; color: orange;">2. </span><a href="http://www.mediocreathlete.com/"><span style="background-color: white; color: orange;"> Rebecca @ Mediocreathlete</span></a></strong></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: orange;"> WOW!!!! She makes me laugh. That's all I have to say. Check it out.</span></div>
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</span></span>Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-9775150525815791342012-06-14T14:57:00.001-04:002012-06-14T14:58:33.984-04:00Knees, Instructing and Kids<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Should I keep running or start biking??!!!</span></strong> </div>
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My knee is a little better, but still bothering me. </div>
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I stopped powerlifting, because I hated the way my knees felt when I wasn't working out. You'd think the knee issue would've been from squatting and deadlifting, but nooooooooo. It was from the darn angle that I'd twist my legs into <em>(back and under the bench)</em> when setting up to bench. It helped me get a good lift, but did a number on my knees. </div>
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I told myself that I hated the way it cut into other fitness adventures. There was no way I could go out for a jog back then. <em>(Not that I wanted to. LOL)</em></div>
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Now, my knee seems to bother me more than both of them did back then. Or maybe it's just time making the problem from back then seem less.</div>
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I forgot to mention, in my Sunday post, that I had run that morning. It didn't go so well on the knee. Better than I'd thought, but worse than I'd hoped.</div>
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I will work on some things to help this work out. <strong>I WILL work on my stretching and IT band. I AM getting new running shoes</strong>. <em>(I got new shoes, but tried a less expensive pair and added support to help w/my overpronation. I'm thinking it's not working.)<strong> </strong></em><strong> I WILL fuel better, before going</strong> <strong>running. I WILL eat cleaner from now on.</strong></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Phewww. I feel better now.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">So.... my Plyo Bootcamp class started on Tuesday and I had 3 people show up.</span></strong> </div>
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I was happy with this, since I'd expected NO ONE to show up. I ran into a few members in the lobby after class and they had no idea about it. One came into today's class and one will be there next Tuesday. YAY!!</div>
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I had 3 people again in today's class.</div>
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I also realized that you should not participate in a whole early morning class, if you've given blood the evening before. JUST SAYIN. OK, I'll start listening to the instructions that the nurses give me when I donate. ; )</div>
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I'm actually glad that the class is starting out smaller, so I can get a handle on this instructing thing. I need to plan myself a whole bunch of classes ahead of time, though. I say I'll plan it earlier in the day and then it's 10:30pm and I'm sitting down with my notebook, thinking about getting up in 6 hours.</div>
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<strong>I WILL write up classes sooner and get to bed earlier!</strong></div>
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I did get to the gym yesterday for my own lifting workout,<strong> which felt great.</strong> It was a quickie, but good for the back and bis.</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">Today is my oldest daughter's last day of Freshman year in high school. UGH.</span></strong> </div>
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The year went by faster than expected, just like EVERY other year. We/she learned some things and I'm glad that I'm not still in high school. All in all......it was a pretty good year. </div>
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She can't get a job until the end of summer, but is eagerly awaiting the chance. She won't be able to get her license until the end of next summer, which is a relief and pain, all at the same time.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8pprXEvBHEhoCYe-rH7Qf99z9V5BEKND7wYk5WeOIo8BRWXCicFJztOqO-AYgzXfxIK11r0jShMRJOqNLL9oBgxU3UrCwjhkV24Xq6cbcSiB5ztx86R560yqYc_dxnARXefI6pCU-PwB-/s1600/IMG-20120417-00252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8pprXEvBHEhoCYe-rH7Qf99z9V5BEKND7wYk5WeOIo8BRWXCicFJztOqO-AYgzXfxIK11r0jShMRJOqNLL9oBgxU3UrCwjhkV24Xq6cbcSiB5ztx86R560yqYc_dxnARXefI6pCU-PwB-/s320/IMG-20120417-00252.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Babies back in April.</td></tr>
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(This is being written by a rare naptime 'during mommy is home time', but Baby Girl is stirring in there, so time to go!)</div>
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<br /></div>Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-22962168545968670532012-06-10T20:00:00.000-04:002012-06-14T14:27:38.621-04:00Plyo Bootcamp and SLACKING<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">This week I committed myself to teaching a <strong>Plyometric Bootcamp</strong> twice a week, for the next 6 weeks! AGGHHH</span> </div>
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I was trying to think of a different type of class to teach at the YMCA that I work at, but since I don't really teach or take many group exercise classes........I am limited to my abilities. I've subbed in for a few Bootcamp classes and Barre Sculpt classes withing the past 6 months. I must say that I am MUCH more comfortable instructing the Bootcamp class, than I ever was during the Barre classes. I don't think I'm cut out for anything graceful. LOL</div>
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I think that this will be fun and get me way more comfortable being the center of attention. Hopefully it'll open me up to a whole new world of fitness instruction and I'll keep broadening my horizons to new classes.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Next up: <strong>SLACKING.</strong></span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">This week, I slacked off. I did manage to make it to the gym and lift twice this week, which felt great. I did not however run. at. all.</span></strong><br />
It rained most of the week and my left knee has been giving me problems, so I thought it best to give it a rest. <strong>Remember my last post about not overdoing it?! </strong>I'm trying to listen to my body.<br />
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At least on Saturday I took a 3-4 mile walk down the Eastern Trail with my two baby girls. It was a nice afternoon. It was nice an leisurely, but enjoyed by all. Here are some pics.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nT-HPIVZlmxG3I5pXoDSAM_iepvTk_GXMGppZTHKMbCJHbk0xtqCKORM7MUsho1708LeTrzdBTJ3aBeTw44VQ7wvpoG5uOCc5IpkW_VQAah9nHCTz1tJ-v_ZWdd8zqRSsXxjv7O1r-9S/s1600/IMG-20120609-00090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nT-HPIVZlmxG3I5pXoDSAM_iepvTk_GXMGppZTHKMbCJHbk0xtqCKORM7MUsho1708LeTrzdBTJ3aBeTw44VQ7wvpoG5uOCc5IpkW_VQAah9nHCTz1tJ-v_ZWdd8zqRSsXxjv7O1r-9S/s200/IMG-20120609-00090.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9bxLdmHdzd0GFiV_aC8UXZruh0nf2F7FA1O3PvJMeM9h387KwnHlfQvrsbxAbR-9_s4r5o0k5Y-efvcWx1cTwMvbLyjreefIQ5_RB2DNsHJSOIh4xNBmyNxWgzsp5mNlVatZl_B7JyjK/s1600/IMG-20120609-00088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd9bxLdmHdzd0GFiV_aC8UXZruh0nf2F7FA1O3PvJMeM9h387KwnHlfQvrsbxAbR-9_s4r5o0k5Y-efvcWx1cTwMvbLyjreefIQ5_RB2DNsHJSOIh4xNBmyNxWgzsp5mNlVatZl_B7JyjK/s200/IMG-20120609-00088.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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On Sunday, my oldest asked me if we could go back down the trail. WOW!!! What a surprise! She is usually asking when we can turn around. LOL</div>
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We took our bikes out and rode for 12 miles or so. It was a great ride, once again. :) </div>
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Love my time with my girls and my oldest Baby deserves some one on one time. <br />She's 14 now, so i'll take it when I can get it!</div>
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I should've named her Grace. She took a digger off the bike, when she hit her handle bar on a post at the end of a bridge. She's OK, though. She's more and more like me every day. LOL</div>
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<strong>Don't tell her that!</strong></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">Next week.....I will be more productive!!!!!!!</span></strong></div>
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<strong>STAY TUNED.</strong></div>
<br /></div>Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-61587369715896397462012-06-02T21:02:00.000-04:002012-06-02T21:02:12.537-04:00Week in ReviewThis week started a little off schedule.<br />
I trained with a client on Sunday morning, so I pushed my longer run to Monday. This was OK, because of Monday being a holiday. <br />
I then decided to make Tuesday a rest day, where Monday should've been. Much needed. My left knee has been a little tight. <br />
Ran Wednesday, which should've been a rest day and Thursday, which was normal. Wednesday, I did manage to make it to the gym with my older daugher and got in some lifting. Must get more in!!!<br />
Friday I made a rest day, because I taught bootcamp for a friend during my run time. This was actually another good thing, because rest was needed. <br />
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I've told myself : <span style="font-size: large;"><strong>"This time around, listen to your body!!!!!"</strong></span> </div>
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Meaning that every time I get into a new fitness addiction, I push myself hard, over do it, and then move on to the next thing.</div>
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Most evenings this week were devoted to cooking. This is something that I do often, but have not been as strict with preparing my OWN meals for the week. I make food for everyone else, but scrounge around for something quick for myself. </div>
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Here's what my fridge looked like after day one:</div>
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Top shelf: eggs, cut up strawberries, cooked chicken breast, and a bunch of containers of semi-cooked or cut up softer foods for the baby</div>
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Center shelves: milk and milk, 100% juices for the hubby and teen, lots of fruit, salad, peeled grapefruit, and cooked chicken and veggies for hubby to take to work</div>
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Bottom shelf: jar pasta sauce for my daughter to make tortilla pizzas with and marinated chicken chunks (waiting to be cooked)</div>
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Drawers: cheeses, lots of salad veggies, apples, wheat bread and tortillas</div>
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Ok, may not be perfect.......but i've also added hard boiled eggs, cooked salmon and many clean meals to the freezer.</div>
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I finally feel like my fridge is back to where it should be. Now I have to keep up with it. LOL</div>
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This afternoon it POURING!!!! I had a nice lazy afternoon with my girls, though. My older daughter wanted to watch old dance recital dvds and the baby just danced to the music. It was really nice, but do you think I could get to my camera and catch the baby dancing? Noooooooo. Never happens. </div>
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Here are a couple of cute pics from the past week. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making silly faces</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Under Armour girl already<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">If you look real close, you can see that there is a tiny pony tail on the top of her head. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">That's it for today! See you next time.</span></td></tr>
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<br /></div>Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-2675377160533240182012-05-25T12:22:00.001-04:002012-05-29T20:02:05.676-04:00Improvement!<div style="text-align: center;">
I've been running for two weeks now and this makes my 6th run. Until today, I had only run 1.5 miles w/out stopping to walk. (The full runs, including walks, were between 3-4 miles.) I'd been getting farther before my walk portion, each run. The distance of the walk was also getting shorter. I had been walking a whole street last week and this week I had only walked appx 50 ft. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Today I didn't walk at all!!!!!!</strong></span></div>
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This morning I ran at a 10 min/mile pace for 2.6 miles and I didn't even take ANY walk breaks. I know that's not very far for a lot of people, but that's far for me!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>My runs are getting better. YAY!</strong></span></div>
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<strong>Oh, did I mention that the race I wanted to do in July is full? Bummer.</strong><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">It was only the second year of the race and they didn't expect it to fill up so quickly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I signed up on the waiting list, in case there are enough cancellations. Fingers crossed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I'm trying to find another half in my area around the same time. I found one for 3 weeks later, so I'm planning on that one, but still training for July. A few extra weeks will be great for me though, since I only started running a few weeks ago. I'm following a plan where I was supposed to be able to run for 30min, prior to starting it, and that was not possible.</span></div>
</span>Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-6235823311570786762012-05-24T21:13:00.001-04:002012-05-24T21:13:26.933-04:00The Garden Attempt<div style="text-align: center;">
I had always dreamed of having a garden. I wanted to grow my own vegetables. Think of how good we'd feel eating what I'd grown and save money too!</div>
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We finally bought a house a few years ago and I couldn't wait to put one in. </div>
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Then we had the baby. </div>
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The garden did not happen last year.</div>
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This year, hubby says "<em>Didn't you want to make a garden?".</em> I told him I did, sometime. He said, "<em>Well, sometime will be too late</em>." OK, so he's right. </div>
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We went to get some supplies and he built me a box outside and I started some seeds indoors. I planted some of everything that I had bought seeds for. There were snap peas, green beans, cukes, zucchini, green leaf lettuce, romaine, carrots, and spinach in my boxes. </div>
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Some of them came up quickly and some of them did not.</div>
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<br />A few weeks later, I started some seeds directly outside. The peas, lettuce, romaine, spinach and beans that I planted directly in the ground are growing great! YAY!!!!!!</div>
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I had been keeping a log of how my seeds were growing, so that next year, I could separate certain veggies that took longer to germinate. </div>
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I put the seed boxes outside to 'harden' them, before planting them in the ground. I am just learning about all of this as I go, so I will make a few mistakes. The cuke leaves started turning kind of yellow. </div>
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I transplanted some of the cukes, beans and peas into the outside box.</div>
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My husband tells me the other day, "<em>I think some of them</em> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(in the seed box)</span><em> aren't growing well, because we are over watering them</em>." <strong>WHAT!? What do you mean WE are over watering them?!</strong> I told him to leave them alone. Now all my notes don't mean a thing, because there were more variables than I was writing down. UGGGGHHHH</div>
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We have seen deer prints in some sand in our yard and last year we had skunks and a groundhog. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the animals don't ruin my garden, before I get to it. So far, so good. I look at it each morning, before my run. Every time, I am amazed that I am still seeing plants.<br />
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Hopefully the critters will stay away and I will soon be able to tell you about my wonderful garden. </div>Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-12435134735813309312012-05-19T20:50:00.000-04:002012-05-19T20:50:20.909-04:00Hike w/ Baby Girl<br />
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So today, Baby Girl and I took a hike. This was only a couple of miles round trip, but it was her first experience being in the backpack.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">She loved it! YAY!!!!</span> I'm so glad, since she may be spending a lot of time in it, this summer. I'm thinking............lots of backyard lunges with these two attached!</div>
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This was the only 'exercise' that I got today. It was a rest day from jogging in the morning and Saturdays are 'Children day', so I don't get any training in later in the day. The BIG problem with this low exercise day is: I've eaten like crap all day. Why is it, that when my body isn't sore or tired from training, I eat worse? Do I really need that physical reminder to MAKE me listen to my head? I KNOW what i'm supposed to eat, but it doesn't always happen. Tomorrow is another day and enough talking about my bad choices of today.</div>
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The only problem was.......there was one child missing. The teenager wanted more friend time. OK, I can give in once in awhile. She doesn't know what she's missing. LOL! <span style="font-size: large;"> She does not find the little hike as exciting as we do!?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just wait and see what I have in store for one-on-one time tomorrow. HEHEHEHE </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">(evil laugh)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Maybe a nice long bike ride. Sounds good to me! But, not till after my Sunday jog</span>. Hopefully, I'm not really regretting my poor eating choices of today.</div>
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<br /></div>Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-23502455950212585852012-05-17T20:25:00.000-04:002012-05-17T21:30:12.073-04:00Missing Toenails and Other QuestionsSo.......today was run # 5. <strong>Am I allowed to call it a run yet?</strong> Let's say that today was jog #5 (from the start).<br />
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Monday had started my 10 week plan for training for the half marathon. Tuesday, today, and tomorrow are all supposed to be 3 miles and then 4 on Sunday.<br />
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There is a hill that starts my route each day. I walk up the hill, from my driveway {to warm up ;) LOL} and then begin my jog. When reaching the starting point for my jog........I had a question about my training. There had been a car accident (the cop told me that the driver walked away, thank goodness) and the street was blocked off, which meant that I had to take a detour. This was going to take me close to an extra mile over my original route. <em>Should I swap my 4 mile day on Sunday, for today? Is that enough to really matter?</em> I had hoped to stick to the 10 wk plan to the T, but it's already screwed up.<br />
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I think that this is no big deal, but then my head started spinning with all the little questions that have been racking up over the past few weeks. These questions have been stemming from all the worries, problems, fears, etc that I overhear and conjure up in my head.<br />
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Do I really need to pay attention to the mileage that I'm racking up, so I know when I need new sneaks? Will I just feel it? Will I even run enough to matter?<br />
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Should I be wearing special socks? Do I need compression socks? If I don't wear them, will I get nasty veins? Would running make any difference in my leg veins, if powerlifting and bodybuilding hadn't?<br />
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How long of a run will I do, before I need one of those water belts? Should I really be eating and drinking more, before I go for my run? I only get up like 10 min, before I head out the door and hate having anything in my stomach.<br />
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I've heard a lot about bad heel striking? I don't have pain now, but should I be running more on the ball of my foot? Will I all of a sudden have horrible pain, because I may be running wrong?<br />
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<strong>Will my toenails fall off?!</strong> I can deal with black toenails, because I always have them painted and I like dark nail polish. Missing nails will NOT look good in my cute sandals this summer and I have a feeling that my teenage daughter will remind me of this, every time she may see it. I haven't had even a slight pain in any toe yet, so no worries. I even cut them last night, which made me worry all night. Did I cut them too short?! No, they seem fine.<br />
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There are a lot of slugs out in the morning. Do they slither up trees and if so, will they drop on my head? I ran my hand over my head, quite a few times this morning. Caterpillars are a BIG fear of mine, so I'm always on the lookout for them too.<br />
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Am I going to have to worry about chafing at all? How far of a run will it take to chafe?<br />
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I want to squat and deadlift. Should I do it today and jog tomorrow, so that when my legs hurt the worst, it'll be a full rest day? Would the jogging, just loosen me up, if I have some DOMS? Might be good, but I'd hate to wake up and give myself a reason to stay in bed, rather than go for my jog.<br />
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Should I be wearing a visor or glasses? The sun is getting brighter by the end of my jog and I don't want to help the wrinkles out any by squinting. On the other hand......would a visor make my forehead break out?<br />
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<strong> Will all the real runners, think Im a joke for even asking all of these? Will they say</strong> <em>'she only ran 13 miles this week. what's she crying about?'</em><strong> ?</strong><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">OK. <strong>ENOUGH WHINING FOR NOW!!!!!!!!!</strong> I'll just take it jog by jog and listen to my body. Everyone is different and <strong>no one knows me better than ME</strong>. :)</span></div>
<br />Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6656648158006516731.post-67025891880083934412012-05-12T15:56:00.000-04:002012-05-12T15:58:57.535-04:00The Beginning and a NEW GOALSo......today I sat here and typed. Trying to figure out how this blog stuff works. I had a full 2 hours to myself (which NEVER happens), while the baby took a late nap. Forgive me while I make some mistakes.<br />
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I wanted to start a blog to keep myself in line a little better. Through the last 11 years, I've taken a journey through fitness. I started out skinny-fat. I've competed in figure, bodybuilding, and powerlifting. Now I'm trying to find a happy medium between my fitness and family <strike>along with work, hobbies, remodeling, cleaning, cooking, laundry, does the list ever end</strike>. My family makes me HAPPY, but I am at my best for them, when I am fit. <br />
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My youngest child, turned 16 months today. My husband and I are enjoying the fact that we can adjust our work schedules , so that we haven't had to use daycare. <br />
This however, has changed my training schedule. I need a new goal. I am always at my best, when training, if I have a goal. <br />
Before she was born, I had been at the gym, waiting for the doors to unlock at 5 am. Until this past week, I couldn't get my butt in bed before 11:30 pm. This does not work well when you want to get up at 4:45. Mornings are my best chance for training. Hubby is in bed at home (so I can sneak out) and because daily life ALWAYS gets in the way later in the day. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This was a new week and the sun started shining again! It's been raining for like forever here. <strong>I HAVE A NEW GOAL!!!!!</strong></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> I will run a half marathon at the end of July.</span> </div>
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Remember? Accountability. Well if I say it really small, then maybe I won't feel horrible if it doesn't happen. </div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: x-large;">NO! I WILL SUCCEED.</span></strong></div>
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I am not a runner. </div>
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The farthest I've ever ran is: <strong>I have no idea.</strong> </div>
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I could jog for a half an hour a few years ago. I had started jogging, because I had a shoulder injury and needed to take myself away from the weights for awhile. I had always said, "I'll just traing everything that won't hurt my shoulder". This always turned into sneaking something in, to keep the shoulder hurting. For 6 weeks or so, I ran. I went to the gym up to 3 times a day and ran, just to keep myself sane and away from the weights. The shoulder got better and the running stopped. I was soooooo excited to start lifting again. Months later, I said to myself "I should've kept running". I had actually missed it. I liked the 'thinking time' that I had, when I got into a zone. (Mind you, the only way I started finding this 'zone' was while watching Motocross on tv at the gym.) I will find the zone again and need to learn to love it for a lot longer than a half an hour.<br />
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OK, I have to go. Mommy duty is calling! <br />
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<br />Anne-Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00614680428621379771noreply@blogger.com