10 running/walking must haves

Running has become something that I do.  I might not always like it, but I know that it's good for me, and it helps clear the mind.  I've come up with a list of 10 things that I can't live without.  Somethings you won't need at all, where others are a MUST!



1. Garmin 405- If you want to be a serious runner/walker, I would highly recommend some sort of running watch with heart rate monitor.  I LOVE mine!  It keeps me on pace, has a virtual partner, and lets me know how many calories I've burned.  All and all, this watch is amazing!

2. Running shoes- Not all running shoes are the same, just like our feet.  I would recommend going to a running store if your have one in your area, and have them help you find what would be best for your foot.  Some people only like one brand or another, I like what feels good.  I've owned and loved Asics and Adidas, they are comfy and feel good while running.  Don't have your heart set on just one brand because they might not be the best for you.

3.  Nursing sports bra- Of course this is only necessary if you're nursing, but having a good one is important!  I know Motherhood Maternity carries them, and a few other places on line.

4.  iPhone/iPod loaded with my favorite get going music in my lifeproof case! Okay, so if you have kids, are outside a lot, drop your phone often or like to ski or be in the rain, I would HIGHLY recommend a Lifepoof case, they are amazing!  They can actually be dropped into a pool or water of any kind, and be completely safe. HONEST!  Steve videoed D swimming this past summer, and not only did the video look good, but the phone was dry as can be.

5.  Hanky/tissue-  if your are getting a good run or walk in, your nose is sure to run, so it's always nice to have on you.

6.  water to stay hydrated!

7.  running skort/shorts and a running tank- I say running ones because they help keep you feeling a little dryer than regular shorts and tanks.  It always feels a little better when you are finished to not be dripping wet! YUCK!  Many companies make the dry fit materials, and they may cost a little more but they are worth it! You can even buy running gear at TJ Maxx and Old Navy!

8.  sunglasses- When it's sunny out, it's nice to have a pair of shades so that you don't have to squint.  Be sure that they fit tightly enough so that you don't have to keep pushing them up on your face.

9.  Goodys headbands- One of my huge pet peeves is my hair falling into my face while I'm exercising.  Goody's makes a slip proof headband that's pretty great!

10.  running stroller- of course for all you running/walking mommies and daddies, a good stroller is a must!  I know I don't have the convenience of having someone watching the little guys while I go for my run/walk so I have to have a running stroller to bring them along.  Good thing they love it, it actually puts them to sleep, so I have a peaceful run!

Chicken pasta salad

Good morning friends!  It's been a heck of a couple days.  I lost the photos on my posts, and have no idea how to fix it, if anyone has any suggestions, I would love to hear. I would love to get them back up!  Anyway, I thought I would share a tasty light treat with you.  I hope you enjoy!

What you'll need:
1 1/2 cup rotini
1 1/2 cup cut green beans
2 cups diced cooked chicken
1/4 cup feta cheese
1/4 cup dressing- made as follows:
2 tbs balsamic vinegar
1 tbs oil
1 tbs water
2 tbs chopped sundried tomato packed in oil
1 tbs fresh basil
1 tbs chopped red onion

Combine and enjoy!

Here's to 2012!

It's always a sad day when I have to take my Christmas tree and decorations down.  Well, today was the day.  I really would probably leave it up all year round, but then people would A.) think I was crazy, or B.)  Think I was lazy, neither of which is true.  I just love Christmas, and my tree and the whole happy feeling during that time of year.  It's seems the house is full of warmth and love, not saying it's not full of those things any other time, but it's especially true during the time the tree goes up, to the time comes down.

Our beautiful bare tree with the last ornament to come off

The final ornament from the most amazing vacation with my family so far!

2011 was really an amazing year, and am thankful for everyone and everything that filled it!

Here's praying that 2012 be just as amazing!

♥ BJ

Hazelnut Hot Chocolate

While surfing the net for a little something to warm the bones, I found this yummy recipe!  We all know I'm a coffeeaholic, but this little gem is something that will be made often!

Ingredients:

1 1/4 cups hot water 
5 tablespoons French Vanilla Flavor NESTLÉ COFFEE-MATE Powdered Coffee Creamer 
3 tablespoons NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Baking Cocoa 
2 tablespoons coffee liqueur 
2 tablespoons hazelnut liqueur 
Whipped cream (optional) 

Instructions:

COMBINE water, Coffee-mate and cocoa in pitcher; stir until dissolved. Stir in coffee liqueur and hazelnut liqueur. Divide between 2 mugs; top with whipped cream.

Thank you coffeemate for this yummy recipe!

Walking to running a 5K

It's a new year, and like tons of others, I thought I would start my year off right losing the baby weight and getting back to running.  I would like to share with you all the program I used before and am using again to run.  I figure it worked once, I know it can work again.  If you are going to try it, Do it 3 to 4 times per week.  Don't forget to warm up and cool down.  Be sure to stretch and don't be afraid to take time off if injured or sick.

Week      Workout
1              Walk 30 minutes
2              Walk 5.5 minutes        Run 30 seconds     Repeat 5 times
3              Walk 5 minutes           Run 1 minute         Repeat 5 times
4              Walk 4 minutes           Run 2 minutes        Repeat 5 times
5              Walk 2 minutes           Run 4 minutes        Repeat 5 times
6              Walk 1.5 minutes        Run 6 minutes        Repeat 4 times
7              Walk 2 minutes           Run 8 minutes        Repeat 3 times
8              Walk 1 minute            Run 9 minutes         Repeat 3 times
9              Walk 1 minute            Run 14 minutes       Repeat 2 times
10            Run 30 minutes           Congratulations!

I would say to run at your pace, what feels good to you.

The best thing about running is all you need are shoes and the road, but a treadmill is handy in the winter!

Leave a comment with a link back to your running tips so that we can all help each other.

Good luck and have a Happy Humpday!

♥ BJ

Edible Playdoh

Here is recipe for those little hands that they can make, play with and eat!  It's super simple, and they'll love it!

What you'll need:
2 cups powered milk
2 cups smooth peanut butter
1 cup honey
bowl, spoon

Directions:
Combine all, and play!

Simple, right?

Of course you can add food coloring to make different colors for them, but this is one they are sure to love!

Enjoy! ♥ BJ

Child Proofing

What exactly does this mean and what age does it work for?  There are many products out there that claim to work but have seemed to fall short of working properly for us. Here are a few items that we needed to change.

Obviously when a baby starts to crawl, anything with a sharp edge (like a fireplace or glass table) needs to be secured.  Instead of buying the bumpers at many stores, one could simply buy a "noodle" like the ones used in swimming pools.  There much cheaper and work just as well.

Next, outlet plugs.  They work good until your toddler is about 2 if your lucky.  Once they figure out they can get their little finger nails behind the plastic, its over.  The ones that fully cover both outlets have a similar life line in my house as my 2 year old just beats on it until it breaks or falls off.

See, cover gone.

Another scary area is the kitchen.  Many chemicals and other dangers are always present.  The oven knobs present challenges because once your toddler can reach them, they like to try and turn them.  Instead of buying covers at your local baby store, simply remove them and put them up in a cabinet.  Install locks on all drawers and cabinets below the counter line so they can not be opened by a toddler or visiting relative.

Simply remove knobs.

In my house the refrigerator and pantry get locks too.  The reason why is because our 2 year old likes to climb.  He also likes to get up a 5:30 am and go downstairs with his 5 year old brother.  Obviously these two together can be mischievous and not exactly eat the proper food.  One morning we came downstairs and they were eating a bag of M&M's, not exactly breakfast food.  He can reach the fridge and pantry doors and pull them open.  So I decided to install a Fort Knox type of lock on the pantry.  This is only locked when we go to bed and unlocked when we get up.  This way there is no junk food eating before 6 am.

Possibly overkill, but no more M&M breakfasts.

Before wasting money and child proofing everything, contact friends who have toddlers and see what tricks they are using or have used, or shoot us an email at datssocute@gmail.com We'll be glad to try and answer your questions.  We are by no means experts, but we have years of experience.  You will save money and have a safe house hold for your little one or ones to run around.  But be careful because they like to watch and study what you are doing and before you know it, they will figure it out.

Have a Safe and Happy New Year!

Steve