MomsHomeRun

Cross training against the muddy odds

2012-01-30T11:07:00.000-06:00

Now that we have bid our practical town house farewell, and exchanged it for a farmhouse in the country, I am no longer in the position to do the school run by walking. My logistical house of cards has crumbled!

The new school is a two mile walk, which takes too long, so we ride our bikes to school. And since january the 9th, the first day at the new school, we've encountered all kinds of weather. I remember especially the pouring rain that changed the nostalgic country roads into swirling pools of mud. I have never had to work so hard to stay on a bike!

All that hard work reminded me of the most ridiculous sport I know: spinning. I love the part in the Bridget Jones' movie where Rene Zellwegger stumbles off her bike, and immediately falls down. The same thing happened to me when I took my first, and last, spinning class.

When you compare it to spinning, biking along a muddy dirt path doesn't seem so bad. At least I'm getting somewhere! Besides, it's a great opportunity to bond with the kids, and build their characters. Biking through the mud requires effort and determination!

Do you do cross training?
If so, what kind?

Enjoy this fragment from Bridget Jones

Running clothes are multifunctional!

2012-01-25T00:29:00.000-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

I'm aware of the ground I run on

2012-01-22T07:08:00.001-06:00

Now that I live in the country I'm in the lucky circumstance of being able to run a lot on dirt tracks. And from my running books I have learned this is good news to my body. Because dirt tracks provide a softer landing.

When I lived in the city I avoided sidewalks as much as possible, because they're made of concrete. On the other hand: sidewalks are máde for pedestrians, so they are usually safer than the street. So whenever I could, I ran on the street, and if that was too hazardous I used the sidewalk.

In general, I'm quite aware of the ground I run on. I really don't want to get hurt! Neither as a runner, nor as a mom.

I find it hard to protect myself from hurt as a mom, because I'm vulnerable through my children. But as a runner, luckily I have more control!

Do you run on sidewalks? Dirt tracks? Bike paths?

After the move: finding my footing in the country

2012-01-18T00:47:00.000-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

I like to know my numbers!

2012-01-16T06:35:00.000-06:00

Recently I bought my third Nike sensor. The first one died a sudden death, due to bad batteries. The second sensor, I lost four weeks ago during a run. So now I'm on my third.

Nike Sensor, but not Nike schoes!

Because I don't have Nike shoes, I had put my sensor in a specially made little pouch, (see picture). This little pouch can be attached to your laces. But the last time I changed my running shoes, I must not have tied the pouch tightly enough.

Nike+: instant training log

During the month it took me to get my new Nike sensor to work, I discovered how much I like it. I really missed the feedback! Especially because all I have do to, is activitate the sensor. Then, when I get home, I only have to plug my iPod into the computer, and all my running data are automatically transferred to my Nike+ account. Which I love, because apparently I'm too lazy to write them down myself.

Problems with new Nike sensor

The reason it took me a month to replace my old Nike sensor, was because my iPod didn't recognize the thing! It kept saying: 'Walk around to activate your sensor.' I have never walked so much, but nothing helped.

So I googled 'problems with Nike sensor' and found out mine was a well known problem. In the end I pushed a lot of buttons, and suddenly my iPod found the sensor. Halleluja!

My results according to Nike+

I started using the Nike+ sensor on the 14th of June in 2009. Since then I have run 1724.09 K, in 211 hours, and have averaged a distance of 1725 K. And, I have achieved Blue Level Status, whatever that means.

Apple Nike + iPod Sport Kit: how much?

My original purchase of a Nike+iPod Sport Kit set me back $26.34. I bought the iPod on eBay for $56,-.

The Nike+iPod Sport Kit comes with a sensor, and a receiver. The receiver you plug into your iPod, and the sensor you put into, or on, your shoe.

I haven't needed to replace my receiver, but have had to buy two new sensors.

All in all, my start up costs with the Nike=iPod Sport Kit cost me about 82 USD.

Running apps for mobile phones

Since then, lots of apps have become available for mobile phones, which help you track your running routes. But right now, I can't be bothered to learn how they work. I'm way too happy I've figured out how to use the Nike+ Sport Kit.

Do you keep a training log?
How?

Running as moving therapy

2012-01-08T09:11:00.000-06:00

One of the best way to make yourself feel right at home somewhere, is to go for a run. It wasn't until I became a runner, that I started to feel at home at our old address.

So now that we've moved to the country, I know what to do to battle the moving blues! I go out for a run. And it turns out, the country offers a lot to my inner runner. Though I was quite pleased with the number of running routes at our old home, our new place offers twice as many.

And that's because from our old home I only had hálf a circle available. The other half led into town, and was littered with traffic lights. And traffic lights make me nervous. I was always worrying I wouldn't make the green light, which would make me run way too fast. Or I was going real slow to avoid having to wait for a red light.

Here in the country there are no traffic lights, so suddenly I have a whole circle of running routes available to me.

We moved here on Wednesday, and I have run three times. And every time I got home, I felt more at home.
Running is great moving therapy!

Mourning runner

2011-12-31T04:30:00.000-06:00

One of the great perks of running is that you can do it anywhere, anytime.

But for me, running in the morning is the only way to go. Because if I don't, I have this nagging feeling, I should. And that feeling won't leave me alone, until I've done my run. Because of my mind, I'm a morning runner.

However, my body prefers the evenings. Whenever I happen to run around seven o'clock in the evening, I'm always amazed at how easy it is. And how my pace is much faster! I love my accidental evening runs. But my mind is the boss of my body, so morning runs it is.

I'm a mourning runner, because my body prefers to be an evening runner.

Christmas music to run to

2011-12-23T02:10:00.000-06:00

Christmas songs are perhaps not the first thing that pop into your mind when you think about running music! But there are some out there, that really make you want to move!

My Christmas favourite is Grandma got run over by a reindeer, because it always makes me smile! I especially love the line that says: 'They should never give a license, to a man who drives a sleigh and plays with elves'.

Do you have any recommendations for Christmas songs to run to?!

Hope you enjoy mine! Here it is:

iRun Athletic Wear Skights: product review

2011-12-14T07:01:00.001-06:00

The time has come for my final review of iRun Athletic wear. I've reviewed their hoodie, and their shirt, and now it's time for their Skirth/Tights, also known as Skights.

They take some pulling!

Let me start by saying they're quite difficult to put on! They really are tight, and quite long. I really have to pull a while to get them over my feet. And then there's some more pulling to get the crotch where it's supposed to be. They remind me of pantyhose that way. But once you've got them on, they're fine.

Skirt has a lovely length, and is feminine

The skirt has a lovely length, gently hiding any bulges you don't want the world to see. It's kind of wide, which makes it feel really feminine. It also adds some much needed protection against icy winds. During my winter runs, my upper legs are often very cold. Because of this skirt they have some extra protection, which I really appreciate.

But what the ….?!

This skirt/tight has no pockets whatsoever?! Where's a girl supposed to put her money? Or her stuff? I really recommend to the manufacturers to add two pockets on this skight.

One other thing

During Summer I swear by running skirts! I absolutely adore them. But during Winter you'll see me running in bootleg pants most of the time. There's just something about black skights, teamed with big, white running shoes beneath them, that really turns me off. So I tried them with my black Saucony's ProGrid Mirages, and that helped.

All together now!

Wearing the whole iRun Athletic Wear ensemble together, made me feel like CatWoman or a burglar! The outfit inspired a post, featuring me as Catmom!

To sum up

These skights are a bit difficult to put on, but once you've squeezed yourself in, they are very comfortable. The best thing about these skights, is the fact that the skirt protects your upper legs from the cold, and makes you look cute and feminine.

Want more info?

Then visit irunathleticwear.com!

Sweat the small stuff

2011-12-12T10:40:00.000-06:00

Whenever I have a angst ridden meeting, like a parent teacher conference, I take special care to dress myself in black. That way the big, damp patches beneath my arm pits won't be visible, because I'm a real Sweaty Betty. This does nót please me!

There's something profoundly úncharming about a woman who sweats like a pig, but as I keep telling myself: at least I won't be overheating! Because sweat is the body's natural cooling mechanism, comparable to the way your car radiator works.

Sweating is in fact a good thing! It means your body is accustomed to daily exercise, and knows how to sweat.

So when my kids are driving me mad, and I feel the sweat pearling on my forehead, I whisper a little thank you for keeping me the cool mom I aspire to be.

Do you notice a difference in your sweat capacity, from when you first started exercising?!

The wear pattern of your shoes is very informative!

2011-11-30T01:56:00.000-06:00

Woordeloze Woensdag

Polar FT4: a product review

2011-11-29T06:53:00.000-06:00

My Polar FT4 arrived in a nice black box. The kind that once opened, you can never put together again without a map. But that's alright, because it was the watch and heart monitor I was interested in.

Three parts

The Polar FT4 consists of three parts: a watch, a belt you wear around your chest and a transmitter. The chestband and the transmitter are called the WearLink. The chestband is made of a cottonlike material, which is one of the reasons I chose the Polar FT4. No sweaty plastic bands around the chest for me. In the box that was nog longer a box, I also found a manual.

The dreaded manual

Now what I usually do with manuals, is leaf through them, and then throw them into a corner. But that's a mistake I decided to skip this time! So I poured myself a nice hot cup of tea, and nestled on the couch with my manual. And I read the whole thing, which actually took surprisingly little time.

The Polar FT4 watch

The Polar FT4 offers five buttons, which I found a bit scary. But to my relief, it really is an easy watch to use. You can scroll through the menu with two of them, say 'okay' with a third, the fourth is to go back in the menu, and the fifth is to put on a light. I can actually manage this watch!

What's it do?

The Polar FT4 tells you:

your current heart rate
whether you're in 'the zone'
how many calories you've burned (love this!)
how many minutes you've been burning calories
your average heart rate during your whole run

Can it be improved?

The only thing worthy of improvement, is the little beep that tells you, you're going too fast or too slow, and your heart rate is not in the optimal training zone. It's so soft, I have to strain to hear it.

To sum up

I'm a real dummie when it comes to gadgets, but the Polar FT4 I can handle! And it makes good on its promises: it tells me whether I'm 'in the zone', thereby helping me burn the midnight fat!

Practical info

How to buy a good heart monitor?

2011-11-26T06:39:00.000-06:00

After reading in several books about the importance of breathing, and training in the right 'zone' I had an epiphany: I needed a heart monitor!

My 4 criteria for a heart monitor

After my epiphany, I realized: I'm going to have to some research to find a good heart monitor that is:

a. easy to use
b. easy to use
c. cheap
d. easy to use

And the winners is… the Polar FT4

Luckily I found lots of reviews on amazon.comand after studying them carefully, I decided on the Polar FT4 Women's Heart Rate Monitor Watch (Bronze). It looked pretty, and even though it had five buttons, people were saying it wasn't difficult to manage.

So far, so good!

I have now run five times with my Polar FT4, and I am pleased with it. I can handle the five buttons without too much hair pulling and hand wrenching, and it offers me the info I wanted: how my heart is doing!

According to the Polar FT4 my best training zone lies between 116 and 151, and I have already made a discovery: apparently I run wáy too fast!

Practical info

You can get a Polar FT4 for 65,75 USD at Amazon.com.

Do you use a heart monitor during your runs?

Stay tuned for my review of the Polar FT4!

Running pants by H&M: product review

2011-11-18T09:27:00.000-06:00

I hate running tights! They reveal things that should stay hidden, and I think they're just plain ugly. So when I saw these sporty pants at H&M, it was love at first sight.

And every time I wear them, I hear this song in my head: 'Everybody goes KungFu Fightihing!' and I feel like kicking my right leg in the air!

Material

These pants are made out of a material that is quick to dry, which is an absolute must for any running clothes. In my day to day life as a mom, I swear by natural fabrics like cotton, but in my life as a runner I only wear high tech fabrics. I'm a real Sweaty Betty, so I like my clothes to get rid of the sweat...

Model

The waisband is elastic, and has a drawstring, so you can wear it loose or tight. There are two side pockets with a zipper, which come in very handy to put some money or your housekey!

At the bottom of the pants there's a blind drawstring.

To sum up

These sports pants of H&M are very suitable for running. And because of the model, they're also well suited for the school run or for when you want to grab yourself a cup of coffee during your runs. Which I often do!

I like them so much, I'm tempted to wear them in my life as a mom! And that's saying something, because I'm a skirt person all the way.

These pants set me back 41 dollars, but they're definitely worth it.

Backside view

Do you ever feel this way?

2011-11-16T04:03:00.000-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

(Source: Gifted Runner)

36-hours rule

2011-11-15T05:31:00.000-06:00

I read somewhere that 36 hours after your run, you should feel fresh and ready to go! If you're still feeling tired after 36 hours, you've been overdoing it.

Another indication of overdoing it, are cravings for something sweet. I'm always craving chocolate, so that doesn't help me much. And another problem with this rule, is that there are seldomly 36 hours between my runs. I run on Sunday-, Tuesday-, Thursday-, Friday- and sometimes Saturdaymorning. That's only 24 hours at best...

However, I do think it's a good rule. Sometimes I do feel tired when I go out for my run. Last week I got a cold, and had to skip two runs, and my body was really grateful! And it thanked me by running like a race horse smelling a great carrot.

I wonder if the 36-hours rule applies to motherhood… If so, I've definitely overdone things, because 36 hours after some fanatic parenting, I'm definitely still tired!

Are you familiar with the 36-hour rule?
How much time do you allow between runs?

Me and my son. Black and pink. Scowling and smiling.

2011-11-09T00:58:00.001-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

Runner's Attitude

2011-11-06T06:57:00.000-06:00

I was having doubts: should I go out for my Sunday morning run, or not.

Trust issues

After all, I wás suffering from a mild case of airway infection. But since I didn't have a fever, I decided I should go. After ten years of running I still don't trust myself not to come up with excuses to skip a run.

Tough run

Besides my airway infection, I was also suffering from maternal guilt, so I took my son Ot (11) with me on his bike, to do some bonding. It was a tough run. And not just because my son talked incessantly about earphones and the differences between iPods and other mp3-systems. I really wasn't feeling my best.

Two cups of coffee

I managed to run the 4 miles to the restaurant, where I wanted to have a cup of coffee. I had two cups of coffee, while my son mercifully shut up about earphones for a while, because he was eating a piece of apple pie.

Walking home

'We're going to have to walk home honey,' I decided. 'I don't feel too hot.'
It took us quite a while, and we were almost home when a car stopped beside us. In it was my hubby!
'I thought you might be tired, you were taking so long. Do you need a lift?'

Knight in shiny Opel Zafira

I stared at my husband of seventeen years, and felt a rush of love. 'That's so sweet!' I exclaimed, and thought to myself: I may not have my own knight in shining armor, but I dó have a knight in a shiny Opel Zafira!'
For a minute I longingy stared into the car, but then I said: 'No, I've come this far, now I have to see it through! But thank you, thank you, thank you!'

Life lessons

As we saw hubby drive away, I saw the opportunity to teach my son some valuable life lessons.
'This is how you should do things Ot!' I said. 'Always finish what you started. That's called 'determination' and 'using your willpower'!'
But Ot declared: 'I would have taken the ride home, and do you think there'll ever be mp5-players?!'

Runner's Attitude

When I got home, my husband told me he'd asked a runner if he'd seen me, and had told him I wasn't feeling well.
The runner had stopped, and shared: 'I don't feel good either! Tomorrow I'll go to the doctor's.'
Hubby said: 'Then I thought, there's yet another nutter! Going out for a run, when he's not feeling all that well.'

And I smiled proudly and said: 'Yes honey. That's called Runner's Attitude!'

What's your respiratory frequency?

2011-11-04T08:44:00.002-05:00

Did you know a healthy respiratory frequency lies between 6 and 10 times a minute? I didn't! And when I counted my breaths for a minute I got to 14! And I was lying down at the time. As the Teletubbies would say: 'Uh-oh!'

What's your respiratory frequency?

Wanna know your respiratory frequency? Easy: just set the oven timer to 30 seconds, and count every time you inhale. After 30 seconds just double the amount of breaths you took, and if you're lucky you'll get to around 6. And if you're like me, to 14.

What happens if your respiratory frequency is high?

If your respiratory frequence is high while doing nothing, it can cause you feelings of anxiety, tiredness, headaches, yawning and in some cases heart palpitations.

How to fix a high respiratory frequency?

That's also easy! You just have to prolong your exhaling. Do this for six weeks, three times a day and wait for the results.

I can't take the credit for this great knowledge, because I read it on the website of Koen de Jong. And I believe everything he says, because he seems real laid back in his video! I wanna be like him! Just click on 'cc' beneath the video to get subtitles!

What's your respiratory frequency, while sitting down?

See me run on my Saucony ProGrid Mirages!

2011-11-02T07:04:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

The Non Runners Marathon Guide For Women: book review!

2011-11-01T08:32:00.000-05:00

The cover of The Nonrunner's Marathon Guide for Women: Get Off Your Butt and On with Your Trainingspeaks volumes: a big, squashy chair with the imprint of someone's butt still in it. Beneath the chair it says: 'Get off your butt and on with your training'.
This book screams: 'Don't worry, you can do this, even if you're a couch potatoe!'

It all started with a postcard

It's written by Dawn Dais, who one day got a postcard from the American Stroke Association inviting her into marathon training. Dawn's grandfather had had a stroke, and she felt as if the postcard was a sign.

Dawn makes no bones about it: she hates to move, other than to reach for the remote control and the bowl of chips. And yet this unlikely person manages to train and finish a marathon.

Part manual, part diary

The book is part instruction, part personal diary, but all is written with irony and sometimes even sarcasm. That makes it a fun read. You don't have to want to run a marathon to enjoy Dawn's journey.

I suppose what I liked most of the book, is that Dawn barely manages to complete the marathon. She doesn't run the final miles, she has to walk them. So even though her story is a success, it's a succes in a humble, very humanizing, way.

It actually made me think: 'If she can do it, than so can I.'

To sum up

The Non Runners Marathon Guide for Women is all that the title says it is! It's a good read thanks to the humorous tone, and it's also got training schedules and everything.

A tiny critical note

But I do think Dawn's training schedule was too hard for a person with her lifestyle. For example: in week 5, she already has to run eleven miles! That's an awful lot for someone who's lived a sedentary life. I think she'ld probably would have had a better experience, if she'd taken more time to prepare.

Practical Info

You can buy this book at Amazon.com for 10,17 USD.

Marathon Mama

2011-10-28T04:23:00.000-05:00

Marathons are often compared to giving birth, but according to Amber Miller going through labor is much harder!

And she should know, because she gave birth to her second child, only hours after completing a marathon. Amber was 39 weeks pregnant, when she ran the famous 26 miler.

It got her the nicknam 'Marathon Mama', but also some harsh comments. Some people thought it 'irresponsible' to run a marathon at the end of pregnancy.

Personally I don't see myself running a marathon at 39 weeks pregnancy.
Then again, I don't see myself running a marathon, period.

Would you run a marathon when 39 weeks pregnant?
And how do you feel about Amber doing just that?

Spot the differences!

2011-10-26T01:01:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

iRun Athleticwear Hoodie: Product Review

2011-10-24T01:41:00.001-05:00

In August I published my review of the iRun Athlectic Wear running shirt, and I'm happy to report back to you now, with my review of the hoodie!

It took me a while, because it was way too hot for anything other than a tank top.

Feminine all the way!

But this week I wore the hoodie, and I loved it. First of all I liked the fit: it's feminine, and made me look all svelte. The color is deep black, which added a touch of sophistication. And I loved the fact it didn't have any of those ugly bright stripes, you often find on running clothes. You could even wear it in your everyday life, should you want to.

Hoodie is a sweater, with adjustable cleavage

The hoodie is a sweater, with a zipper you can adjust to your liking. So if you're a cleavage girl you pull it down, and if you're more of a turtleneck girl, you pull it up! There's also a zippered pocket, which is suprisingly big. Very useful to put your housekey in, so you don't have to burgle your own house, to get in after your run. Althought in this sleek, and black outfit, you could probably pull it off!

The fabric is very supple, and feels nice. It consists of 92% polyester and 8% spandex.

To sum up

I liked the iRun Athletic Wear shirt, but I loved the iRun Athletic Wear hoodie. The hoodie has a more feminine, and therefore flattering, cut. I'm sure I will wear it often this Fall and Winter.

Because of it's neutral color, and lack of ugly stripes, I'll also be able to wear it on my school runs, without feeling self conscious!

You can get your own iWear hoodie for 29 USD at irunathleticwear.com. You can also check it out from all angles there!

P.S. The camera hates my guts, so I used a picture from the iRun Athletic Wear website to show the hoodie!

Stay tuned for my review of the iRun Athletic Wear skights!

Running with glasses: foggy and rainy

2011-10-20T09:05:00.000-05:00

Running with glasses is not without its drawbacks! Not only do I look like a running nerd, when it's raining I can't see! And when I'm sweaty, I can't see either, because my glasses get all foggy.

So I can totally relate to the butcher in this movie, who obviously can't see a thing!

Funny video!

Do you wear glasses during your runs?

42k on 42th birthday?

2011-10-18T02:50:00.001-05:00

On my 42th birthday, nature and my body conspired to give me a Great Run. The sun was shining, the trees were showing off their Autumn colors, and my body felt light and airy. It was a great gift!

As I was galloping along, it suddenly hit me: wouldn't it be neat to run a marathon on my 42th birthday? It could be symbolic! I could tell people: 'On my 42th birthday I ran 42k!

I got all excited, but then I realized: 'I can't do it!'
'Why not?' you may ask.
Because my parents were coming over at two o'clock to celebrate my birthday, of course. There just wasn't enough time.

Besides, I'ld like to make it to my 43th birthday...

Bitchin' headphones: Product Review

2011-10-14T09:16:00.000-05:00

There they were: shiny and new, with ear pieces that glistened like diamonds.

For just 2 dollars they could be mine. And the packaging said: 'Earphones for runners'. I did some quick philosphical thinking: 'I'm a runner, ergo I should totally get them!'

I hate them, I hate them, I hate them

Today I wore my fancy headphones for the first, and final time. I hate them! The sound was so awful, it was amazing how bad it was. I didn't know sound could bé that bad.

Stevie Wonder effect

And they refused to stay on my head. Earbuds often tend to fall out of my ears, but this headphone managed to actually fall off my head. So I had to do my Stevie Wonder imitation, holding my ear pieces in place with my hands. And let me tell you: that's not a comfortable way to run.

Are you drunk or something?

After about half an hour I finally managed to position the headphone on my head in such a way it dídn't fall off. Unfortunately, this meant wearing it kind of sideways and having it covering only my right ear. But my arms were so tired, I didn't care anymore. I don't know how Stevie Wonder did it!

When I got home, I violently tore the thing off my head. 'It will make a nice gift for the kids!' I decided.

To sum up

Do not buy this headphone, that's supposedly for runners. The sound is terrible, and it will fall off your head.

But I have to admit: there is one good thing about this headphone: it reflects like there's no tomorrow.

Too bad it took a picture to see this.

Skipping a run is not for the faint hearted!

2011-10-13T01:04:00.000-05:00

When I've got my period, I always feel like my pelvic muscles turn into mush. I used to welcome this as an excuse to skip my runs, but the years went by, and somehow I turned into a runner. I hate skipping runs now. Who would have thunk it? Not me, I can tell you!

Anyway, when I got my period on Monday, I knew I would be feeling it the most on Tuesday, so I told myself: 'Be wise, and skip your Tuesday run. That way your pelvic muscles get a break, and your uterus won't fall out.' Having scared the hell out of myself, I did not go running.

And it was sooo hard! As hard as it sometimes is to get myself out the door, it's even harder to stay in! All day Tuesday I felt like something was missing, and several times I had to physically restrain myself to prevent me running out the door.

But now it's Thursday, and I've got my running shoes on. The world is right again.

How do you feel about skipping a run?

Funny Footlocker commercial!

2011-10-08T01:28:00.000-05:00

I love commercials that make me smile. This one made me frown a bit at first, but in the end I laughed out loud.

Do you ever feel like the people in this commercial when you put your running shoes on?
I wish I did!

Caught in the act

2011-10-03T01:49:00.000-05:00

I love to get caught in the act of running! There I'll be, all sweaty in my cute little running skirt, and I'll do this nonchalant shrug and say: 'Oh well, it keeps me in shape!'

But I hate it when I'm caught in the act of taking a break! Yesterday I went for a run with some new running music, and I got all fired up by 'Is this the way to Amarillo?' and ran way too fast. I got so tired I had to walk the final mile.

And that's when I suddenly heard this voice shouting: 'Hey Jones! You gotta keep the pace up!' I looked up, and there stood my cousin Hank (50), in his soccer uniform. I gave an embarrassed little wave, and set off in a half hearted trot.

But when I ran home, I made sure 'Is this the way to Amaryllo' was playing when I passed my cousin Hank again!

I'm running on clouds

2011-09-28T01:39:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

Runner's Evangelism

2011-09-22T11:19:00.000-05:00

When someone tells me they're feeling a bit down, or bummed out, I bite my tongue. Because I want to say to them: 'Why don't you take up running?! I guarantee you that you'll feel better afterwards!'

But I don't say it, because I know there's nothing more annoying than the converted trying to convert. No, you have to be subtle!

So I tell them how running never fails to make mé feel better. And how I used to hate gym class with a vengeance, and was terrible at it. And how, to my own surprise, I've come to love running! And how much I can recommend it to make you feel better, both physically and psychologically.

And then I wait. I've planted the seed!

Because I wish the joy of running on everyone!

Do you suffer from Runner's Evangelism?

From smoker to marathon runner

2011-09-20T02:28:00.002-05:00

I love the way running changes people! How it makes them healthier, more confident and happier. In this inspiring movie you see how a guy changes from a smoker into a marathon runner!

Or rather, fírst you see him as a marathon runner, and then you see him 'before'.

Have you met the Guy with the Hammer?

2011-09-16T09:17:00.000-05:00

Us runners and moms are all familiar with The Wall. But have you ever met The Guy with the Hammer?! Because I have!

He's the guy that awaits you round the corner, and hits you right between the eyes. He makes you feel like you wanna stop running, like you're too tired, like you can't go on for one more minute. He's the guy that makes you walk into the wall.

I've been having a lot of trouble with The Guy with the Hammer lately. My runs have been struggles. So I told him: 'You can't make me stop running. However, I am willing to go more slowly. I'll still go the distance, but I'll wálk parts of it.'
He couldn't do anything about that, so for the last few weeks I've been running, and walking.

Slowly but surely, I felt him losing interest, and today for the first time in weeks I managed to run all the way. Without walking at all.

I'm so happy I didn't give up! And next time I'll see that awful Guy with the Hammer, I'll knock hím down first!

Gym Class in high school

2011-09-11T05:55:00.000-05:00

This week my sixteen year old daughter had to run 80 metres in 14 seconds during Gym Class. Unfortunately it took her 17 seconds the first time, and 16.44 seconds the second time.

What can I say: my daughter reminds me of me, during my highschool years! I was terrible at anything sporty, and used to dread Gym Class. I found the best way to get through them was to keep a low profile. So I spend most of my time lurking behind the bushes, praying my gym teacher wouldn't notice me.

Unfortunately my daughter's gym teacher has noticed her, and said to her: 'You don't do any athletics in your spare time, now do you?!'
Needless to say, this did nothing for my daughter's motivation!

So I told her: 'Don't let him get to you. I was just like you, and look at me now! I'm actually a Runner!'

But that is to no thanks to my gym teacher.

How did you like Gym Class during high school?

Nót a runner's best friend!

2011-09-09T04:32:00.000-05:00

I was running along, minding my own business, bothering no one. Then suddenly, I jumped in fright!

Now I have only one question:

Scary!

2011-09-07T01:56:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

How I love my Birkenstocks, let me count the ways

2011-09-05T02:45:00.000-05:00

During Summer I always wear Birkenstocks, model Arizona. I love the comfort they offer, and the space and air they offer my feet.

My feet love their freedom, and my Birkenstocks provide just that. I also appreciate their no nonsense model: there's no fuss.

As a mom I love Birkenstocks too, mostly because they're so easy to put on! And just as easy to slip out of. In the picture you can see me in my Birkenstocks!

Birkenstocks are ugly?

However, my love affair with my Birkenstocks is often frowned upon. People say they're 'ugly' and not feminine. They're also very much associated with Jesus and Hippies. But I say to them: 'If they're good enough for Jesus, then they're good enough for me!'

Luckily I got some unexpected support for my belief Birkenstocks are great: they turn out to be great Recovery Sandals for runners! Who would have thunk it!

Shelly Glasgow, director of product development and merchandising says:

'The point is to provide the optimum recovery opportunity when they’re not running so that running becomes more enjoyable. Our footbed shape and construction gives runners that opportunity.

The full and roomy shape combined with the contoured cork footbed and neutral heel all combine to allow your feet to be in their natural and free form, but with just the right support. It’s not about waterproof, or rugged, it’s about free and full support that shapes and molds to your foot over time.'

So to all those people who tell me Birkenstocks are stupid shoes: 'Nènènènèè!'

Do you wear Birkenstocks?

My running clothes!

2011-08-31T01:24:00.003-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

Running and Eckhart Tolle

2011-08-30T06:28:00.001-05:00

How do you like that for a title?! You may wonder: 'What has Eckhart Tolle got to do with running? Have you ever séén him?!' And I admit, he is not the most athletic looking type...

But I've got Eckhart Tolle's book The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenmentlying on my nightstand, and the things he says apply very much to running.

Running is all about living in the now!

I took a page that particularly spoke to me, and applied it to running:

'When you are on a journey (running), it is certainly helpful to know where you are going (to the corner of the street and back) or at least the general direction to which your are moving, but don't forget: the only thing that is ultimately real about your journey is the step that you taking at this moment. That's all there ever is.

Your life's journey has an outer purpose and an inner purpose. The outer purpose is to arrive at your goal or destination (finish my run for the day), to accomplish what you set out to do (feel all smug and satisfied that I have run!)

But if your destination, or the steps you are going to take in the future, take up so much of your attention that they become more important to you than the step you are taking now than you completely miss the journey's inner purpose, which has nothing to do with where you are going or what you are doing, but everything to do with how.'

Practise staying in the moment during your runs

I find running a great exercise to stay in the moment. Sometimes during my run all I think about is when I can stop. At those moments I'm not in the now: I'm in the future!

Or when I have finished my run and I feel all triumphant and happy, but then I think: 'I'll have to do it again tomorrow, so what's the point?!' Again: I'm not enjoying the moment.

So I'm constantly training myself to stay 'with it', to stay in the moment. To nót think about how much further I have to go, but to enjoy the process.

To enjoy my run for the sake of the run.

My spleen is killing me!

2011-08-28T07:21:00.000-05:00

This morning when I went for my run, my eldest son asked: 'Can I go with you?'

I was pleasantly surprised this fourteen year old boy volunteered to spend time with me, so I agreed: 'Yes, but I hope your ankles won't bother you!'

Because last time I went for a run with my eldest son, we had to make many, many stops, because of his hurting ankles.
'They won't!' my son declared confidently, and indeed they didn't.

Because before we'd hit the corner of our street he said: 'I'm going back. My spleen is killing me!'

I do? Or...

2011-08-24T03:44:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

The rewards of structure

2011-08-23T04:34:00.000-05:00

I've had three runs in a row now, where I hit the wall almost as soon as I rounded the corner of our street. I've never been so tired! What has happened to me? Did someone spike my coffee with Kryptonite?!

When my first run went terrible I thought: 'Oh well, these things happen. It will only mean my next run will be better because it can't gét any worse.' But my second run that week was just as hard, and so was my third run.

So I put on my thinking cap, and started to do some serious thinking. And after much pondering I have decided Summer Vacation is to blame! I need a vacation from Summer Vacation, and luckily it has arrived in the form of the new school year.

I love the structure and order the new school year brings along. I've always been a big fan of structure: it's one of the things that helped me to become a runner, in the form of a training programme.

But I also thrive on structure as a mom: when the days seemed endless, and I felt I would scream if I had to read The Little Engine That Could one more time, it was structure that got me through. Knowing that in ten minutes it would time for a small snack or cup of coffee. Or even better: naptime!

Structure doesn't get rid of the dreaded walls, but it does help get me from wall to wall!

How do you feel about structure?

Cross- training? Are you crazy?

2011-08-19T11:31:00.000-05:00

I don't do cross-training.

When I first heard about the need for crosstraining as a runner, I was not amused! Here I was, finally being 'sporty' and everything, and now people were telling me that wasn't enough!

For a while I did some Pilates, but I soon realized exchanging my Pilates lesson for a run, was not only easier, but also much cheaper. So that was the end of my crosstraining.

Motherhood provides its own crosstraining!

But I had not reckoned with my work as a mom and housewife, which offers its own special blend of crosstraining, like

lifting weights (kids, and heavy laundry baskets)
strenghtening the arm muscles (vacuuming, changing the beds, mopping the floor)
and gardening (all of the above)

I'm bow-legged and not fancy free

After a very strenuous gardening session last Wednesday I'm walking around bowlegged, like I've been shot or had too much sex. Obviously all that kneeling down, and pulling up weeds, made me use muscles that had long been forgotten. I'm certain a personal trainer could not have made my muscles feel worse.

So thanks to motherhood, I'm doing crosstraining after all! On the one hand, motherhood makes me want to do a runner, on the other hand it kindly offers me some much needed cross-training exercises. It's one of the many paradoxes of motherhood in a nutshell!

Are you ever airborne during your runs?!

2011-08-17T01:35:00.000-05:00

… or is one foot always stuck to Mother Earth?

Wordless Wednesday

iRun Athletic Wear Shirt: Product Review

2011-08-16T03:50:00.003-05:00

When it comes to running clothes, I'm like Goldilocks: they have to be júst right! My running clothes should be nicely fitted, but not too tight. They should nót ride up to the North during runs, and they have to make me look nice.

So I was delighted to try out a t-shirt, hoodie and skights set of iRun Athletic Wear. Unfortunately the temperatures have been too high for the hoodie and skights, but today I took the shirt for a test run!

The fit of the iRun Athletic Wear shirt: loose but not baggy

The t-shirt is less fitted than the running shirts I normally wear, but I loved the feel of cool, fresh air against my skin. I may have to change my opinion about shirts with a looser fit!

Another advantage of a slightly looser fit, is that your shirt won't ride up. And the people of iRun Athletic Wear got it just right with this shirt: not so fitted it will ride up, but not so loose it looks baggy.

So when it comes to comfort during a run, I give this shirt an A!
On looks, I give it a B: the sleeves are quite loose, which feels lovely, but also made me feel a bit 'mannish'.

Nice little logo: I run

I'm not a fan of logos on my shirts, but the iRun Athletic Wear logo is cute, girly and inspirational. That was actually a pleasant surprise to me! I was having a hard time, and I started to walk a little bit, but then I looked down at my shirt and saw the little logo saying: 'I run!'
'Can't let my shirt down!' I thought, and trot off again!

No sweat!

It's not very sexy to say this, but I'm a real Sweaty Betty during my runs. Almost all my shirts show big wet patches beneath my armpits when I run. But, the black iRun Athletic Wear shirt didn't! As far as my shirt went, I could have been taking a leisurely Sunday stroll. This, to me, is a great selling point!

To sum up

You can't go wrong with the black iRun Athletic Wear shirt: it's a great and comfortable fit, it's neutral, it wicks away your sweat and it's got an inspirational logo.

The only downside to me, is that it's not very feminine. I look like a bloke!

Practical Info

The best news is that this shirt only costs $9.99, which is a real bargain considering the prizes I usually have to pay for a running shirt.

I wear a size M in my everyday clothes, and this shirt was a size M too, and fit just fine.

You can admire and buy it at iRun Athletic Wear!

How do you like to wear your running shirts: tight, loose or even baggy?!

Stay tuned for my reviews of the iRun Athletic Wear hoodie and skights!

Running style

2011-08-15T01:51:00.000-05:00

I like to check out other runners. And since they always run right past me, leaving me to eat their dust, I have ample opportunity.

First I check out the way they put their feet down. Do they pronate excessively? And if so, could they be wearing the wrong shoes? Then my eyes wander up to their shoulders: are they relaxed or having a nice visit with the ears?

But my favourites are the arms. Yesterday I saw a male runner boxing several rounds with an imaginary assailant, and another guy was frantically drying some dishes.

And after checking my fellow runners out, I turn my attention to my own body. I relax my shoulders, and make sure my arms don't do any funny business. Because some examples inspire you to do things different!

Like Phoebe from Friends!

Do you check out other runners?
Are you aware of your own running style?

Mile markers

2011-08-13T08:08:00.000-05:00

Running is a great way to to get to know your neighbourhood intimately. Or to make a connection with a new town, or area you may find yourself. As a runner I have discovered streets and paths, I didn't know anything about as a regular pedestrian! It made me feel like I really got to know my neighbourhood.

Around Christmas we plan to move to the countryside, to a house that's five miles from our current home. Every time we go there for a look to see how things are progressing, I run back. It makes for a great new run, and also helps me get familiar with my future surroundings.

And today I took a giant leap forward, because I discovered my first mile marker! Because if you run the same path often enough, you'll find yourself at a certain point at a certain time, and you come to count on it. If you've passed it sooner, you'll know you ran faster. If you passed it later, you'll know you're a bit slow.

And today I reached a certain tree after ten minutes! My first milestone made me feel like I'm beginning to get familiar with my future home, and I love that.

Do you have milestones along your runs?

Sometimes life is so simple!

2011-08-11T06:05:00.002-05:00

Reporter: Why are you doing this?
Forrest Gump: 'I just felt like running.'

(Forrest Gump)

I made my kids an offer they couldn't refuse!

2011-08-08T05:08:00.003-05:00

I've got two sons who love to play games on their computer. Unfortunately for thém, they've got a mom who worries about too much screen-time. I want them to play outside, and get plenty of exercise and fresh air.

How to solve this problem of different interests and goals?!

I pondered this question during one of my runs, because I know runs are a great time to solve this kind of parenting puzzles. And at the end of my run, I had indeed found the solution!

Runescape is the name of the game

One of the computer games they particularly love is Runescape. Memberships costs 6,50 a month, and they had been nagging me for ages to buy them one. Which of course I didn't! Why make it even more interesting for them to play computer games. I'm not thát stupid!

My offer!

But now I made them an offer they couldn't refuse:

'Guys if you promise to run thirty minutes, three times a week from now on, I will buy you a one month membership to Runescape. At the end of the month I will check if you've kept your part of the bargain, and if so, I'll pay the next month membership. And so on.'

It's a parenting succes!

They were delirious with joy, and after trying this for half a year I'm happy to tell you: it's a success! They get their exercise and fresh air, which makes me happy. And they're happy with their membership.

Also I love to give them the gift of running. I believe it will be a great tool to help them through the tough spots of life. Running certainly helps me.

What are your greatest parenting successes?

Uh-oh: my iPod is kaputt!

2011-08-05T06:16:00.000-05:00

'Now, whére did I put my iPod after my run yesterday?' I wondered, but then the kids got home and I decided I would find it later.

But when the kids were taken care off, and safely behind their Wii, Nintendos DS and Playstation2, I started a serious search. Unfortunately I couldn't find my iPod anywhere, and an unpleasant suspicion entered my mind: 'I didn't... did I?'

So I ran upstairs at warp speed, opened the door of the washing machine, and stood face to face with my very dead iPod. In the rubber ring I found the, also deceased, nike-chip. It was one of those moment's in my runner's life where words could not describe how I felt. So I sighed deeply. I tried CPR, and then a resurrection by plugging it into the computer, but alas. It had obviously gone into the light.

And now I have this philosophical question weighing heavily on my mind: if I run a five miler, but I can't register my run with my iPod, have I really run?

Barefoot running in action!

2011-08-03T00:57:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

Giveaway winner: who won the Asics Ayami Tunic?!

2011-08-01T00:39:00.000-05:00

The winner of the cute Asics Ayami Tunic is Mandala from Adventures in Winterland!

Mandala put a link to Mom's Home Run on her blog, which was the only requirement to participate in this giveaway.

The Asics Ayami tunic is different from your average running clothes. It's just that little bit longer, it has a feminine touch and it's made from great wicking material.

Mandala, I hope you'll a post a picture of yourself wearing this great tunic on your blog! I would love to see how it looks on you!

There's an email on its way to you, with the great news!

Prizes need to be claimed by augustus the 5th 2011

Saddle pain is a pain in the butt!

2011-07-30T06:34:00.000-05:00

I love running's side effects! Yesterday it turned out my legs can effortlessly bike 30 miles, unhindered by preparation or a training schedule!

While hubby was whining beside me about 'tired legs', my legs felt like they could go on for miles and miles! But unfortunately my butt hadn't gotten the memo, because it hurt. Real bad.

It's always good to get to know parts of your body, you didn't know before, but why does making their acquaintance have to hurt so much?

What 'running effects' do you notice in your daily life?

What happened to me?!

2011-07-27T02:36:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

I'm easy to please

2011-07-26T03:58:00.001-05:00

Only five days left until my giveaway of the Asics Ayami Tunic closes.

I wanted an easy giveaway, which would be simple to enter. So the only requirement to participate was linking up to Mom's Home Run.

I'm easy to please: just follow my one rule!

But what happened? People started doing all kinds of other stuff, like following Mom's Home Run. And while I certainly appreciate the sentiment and intitiative, it's not what's required to enter this giveaway!

It's like participating in a ten miler and at the finish tell people: 'I decided to to a five miler! Does that count too?!' And I have to tell ya: 'No, it does not!'

Take your chance now! Only five days left!

So for everybody who would like a real chance to win this fabulous Asics Ayami Tunic, you have five days left to participate!

And it's real easy: just add http://www.momshomerun.blogspot.com to your blog or linklist, and let me know you did so in a comment!

Life with no running, is like an egg with no salt

2011-07-24T07:21:00.001-05:00

I was running along, thinkin' about how good I would feel when I got home: I was gonna curl up on the couch with a great book. And it occured to me how running makes everything better.

Running makes curling up with a book feel better: it's so much nicer to lie on the couch after you've run 10 miles. As opposed to just lying down with a book. And a cup of coffee after a run! Oh, it's pure bliss! It tastes so much better than an ordinary cup of coffee, without having run first.

And then there's the wole candy bar thing: running makes it okay for me to eat that mars bar. After running 10 miles it won't make me fat. And knowing that, makes it feel even better.

Life without running would be like an egg with no salt, a kiss without a beard, a BigMac without the cheddar cheese and French fries without mayonaise.

Life without running would be just that: a life without running.

To me, running is like the missing piece: adding it to my life, makes it complete.

Is there as caste system for running clothes?

2011-07-22T05:33:00.000-05:00

When I first started running, like so many others, I put on an old t-shirt from my husband, and some once-white jogging pants. My whole outfit screamed: 'Don't mind me, I knów I'm just a beginner!'

Real running clothes 'above my station'

At the time I felt real running clothes, the wicking kind, were 'above my station'. My station being: Beginners Central. I didn't want to be one of thóse runners. The ones who dress like the Kenyans, when really they huff and puff their way through a onemiler. I felt I had to prove myself as a runner first.

Do not apply beginner's humility to your shoes

Unfortunately I applied this humbling principle to my shoes too, which were an old pair I found at the back of my closet. Before long, my knees started acting up, so I got myself a pair of real running shoes way faster than I ran at the time! Because being humble is all very well, but as a runner you shouldn't skimp on your footwear.

Real Runner's Station

I've been a runner now for ten years, and I feel I have reached the point of Real Runner's Station. I allow myself cute running skirts, and wicked wicking tops. I no longer feel they are above my station! But I have no illusions, nor aspirations, to reach the highest running caste, that of the Kenyans.

Because I don't like their outfits!

Do you feel there's a kind of 'caste system' for running clothes?
What was your very first running outfit like?
And what do you wear now?

Toe rub

2011-07-20T02:33:00.001-05:00

My little left toe and its nearest neighbour, rub each other the wrong way. And yesterday, after my run, I discovered they'd made a bloodbath. So I wrapped the neighbour in a nice plaster with little trains on it, and thought no more of it.

Today I went running, but after three miles my little left toe started sending me frantic messages: 'I'm hurt real bad!'
I ignored it, because I hate whiney toes, but after another mile it hurt so much I decided I had to take a look.

I took off my shoe, and saw my little toe's neighbour's plaster had created a nice big blister on my little toe! Feeling like the little mermaid I tried to hobble home, because there was no way I was putting my shoe on again. It hurt too much!

'So this is barefoot running', I thought to myself. But soon my feet started to hurt and I tried to find another solution. I tried to tie my whole shoe beneath my foot, but that certainly didn't work. Then I had this great MacGyver moment: 'I'll use my sock to wrap my little toe in! And then I'll put my shoe on.'

So I did, and it felt wonderful! 'I can walk again!' I shouted in delight.

But when I got home I put a plaster on my little toe, just to be sure. It had little eskimo's on it.

I hope it's neighbour doesn't get jealous.

Reconciling myself with me

2011-07-16T07:10:00.000-05:00

There are times when I've really had it with myself.

The constant worrying, the terrible scenarios even Stephen King would find too scary, and the doubts. And I find myself thinking: 'I wish I could take a vacation without me!'

But today I was out running, and I suddenly realized: there's a part of me that I always like! A part of me I appreciate, and even admire. That's the part of me that goes out for a run five times a week, rain or shine.

And I find myself reconciling myself with me, and I decide: 'I'm not so bad after all.'

The power of music

2011-07-14T01:45:00.000-05:00

I'm not very good at dancing. I find it hard to remember the steps. But running, thát I can do! The steps are easy: it's just one foot in front of the other. Add some music to that, and you're dancing a five miler before you know it.

So whenever my running motivation hits a rough spot, I know just what to do. I create a new playlist! Music makes running feel like dancing, and I love listening to songs during my runs. They make me smile, and sometimes teary eyed, because I listen to country songs. I love the stories they tell.

Like when George Strait tells someone you can't build a house with no doors, or when Brad Paisley has to choose between his wife and fishing, and he chooses fishing. Those singers feel like my friends, and I love meeting up with them and listen to their stories.

Music is a powerful tool, and it can help you through the rough spots as a runner.

How do you feel about music during your runs?
What's your favourite running song?

Great running posture!

2011-07-13T02:09:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

7 unexpected Running Motivators

2011-07-12T04:05:00.000-05:00

You can find running motivators in unexpected places! Here's some of my unexpected motivators:

Reading about running. Especially John 'The Penguin' Bingham really gets me going
Music, especially country songs telling sad stories. You know songs about guys with names like Billy Bob who loose their right foot, left hand, their house, their wife and while they silently sob into a dirty handkerchief, they whisper: 'I'm still holding on!'
New running clothes.
Worse alternatives: Telling myself if I don't go out for my run, I'll have to clean the bathroom floor. That gets me out the door real fast.
Munching my way through a box of Toffifees. Afterwards I feel dirty, and there's no better way to get rid of that feeling than to go out for a run.
Seeing a picture of Matthew McConaughey running
My body: after five kids I can't complain about the shape it's in. I owe it all to running
People shrieking: 'I'm soo impressed! Do you really go out for a run five times a week?!'

What are your unexpected running motivators?

Running in just your sports bra: is it okay?

2011-07-10T12:25:00.004-05:00

I've always thought it was a bit unfair: guys get to take off their shirts, and run around with their naked torsos, whereas we women have to cover up.

Of course we've got 'the girls' to take care off, although I feel very strongly that guys who have 'girls' should NOT go topless!

Anyway, this morning I was running, and I was really hot, and I wondered: shall I take off my tanktop, and run in my purple sports bra? And I'm not the only one, wondering about running in just a bra. Lisa wondered the same thing in A summer dilemma: shirt or no shirt?

Unfortunately (false?) modesty got the better off me, and I held on to my tank top. But I'm not happy about it! And I'm sitting here, feeling bummed out, wondering if people would even notice me running around in my bra.

So, do you go out for a run in your sports bra?
And if so, is it recognizable as a bra? Does the design, or color matter, for you to run in your bra?

Glasses again: I'm a running nerd!

2011-07-10T02:40:00.001-05:00

When I was ten, the school doctor discovered I needed glasses. I didn't think much of it at the time, but when I hit puberty I started to hate them. I figured my glasses were to blame for everything that went wrong.

Nobody asked me for a dance? Blame the glasses!
Bad hair day? Blame the glasses!

Pregnancy: lenses lost the battle to glasses

So when I turned seventeen I was very relieved: finally, I could get contact lenses! For years I wore my contact lenses, but then I got pregnant and I started to feel that they were 'there', all the time. It didn't take very long before I wore my glasses more often than my contacts. After a terrible night with a crying baby, my glasses were simply the easiest choice.

Since then I've been juggling my glasses and my contacts. When I want to feel pretty, I wear my lenses. When I don't care, and only want comfort, I choose my glasses. But when I'm out running I prefer my contact lenses.

I love the nerdy look!

But I have to admit: a lot has changed since I was ten. Glasses have become much nicer, and can actually enhance your looks. For example, I just love the nerdy glasses that are the latest fashion. Who wouldn't want to wear those?!

At Warby Parker you can buy a great designer eyeglass frame for only 95 dollars, including prescription glasses. That really ís a good deal!

The story behind Warby Parker

I love the story behind Warby Parker: there were these four guys who hated paying way too much for their boring spectacles, so they decided to cut out the 'middle man'. All four of them look like classical nerds, but it really suits them.

And what I love most about Warby Parker is that for every pair of glasses you buy, someone, in a third world country gets a free pair too.

So I'm thinking: perhaps next time I go out for my run, I'll go running like a Running Nerd!

Are running moms ruining it for for all the other moms?

2011-07-08T03:10:00.002-05:00

Jen Singer, author of the wonderful blog Mommasaid.net, wrote a post about moms that combine a running career with motherhood.

She feels these moms are ruining it for all the other moms, by raising the bar way too high. Instead of being able to feel proud you got out of your pyjamas, these supermoms make you feel like you should be training for a marathon.

I must say, the New York Times story about Kara Goucher, running fifty minutes on the day she gave birth, doesn't sound very healthy to me.

Personally I don't let these supermoms get to me: after all, they're athletes! They're sooo not in my league, they don't even bother me. However, they dó scare me a bit, with their little panties and flat stomachs. I prefer the more forgiving running skirts, and tank tops that cover my tummy.

What do you think: are these running moms ruining it for other moms by setting the bar too high?

Runner's Inspiration: Books!

2011-07-06T06:31:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

Do running books motivate you as a runner?
What's your favourite book about running?

Tired Body Syndrome

2011-07-04T08:58:00.000-05:00

When my kids were little, I used to tumble into bed at night, exhausted. Almost crying from the relief of finally lying down. 'I've got a tired body,' I would tell my husband.

And then he would pretend he didn't hear me, and quickly complain: 'I'm soooo tired,' and I would feel like hitting him. My husband and I, we're like two children playing musical chairs, each wanting to grab that final 'tired' chair. But I digress!

Now that my youngest has reached the tender age of eight, that kind of exhaustion doesn't come naturally anymore. And to my surprise I sometimes find myself longing for it. Especially that blissful feeling when you lie down!

Luckily running can provide me with Tired Body Syndrome. Although through the years, I've found myself having to run faster and further, to get that special blend of physical exhaustion and feeling of bone tiredness.

Do you know this Tired Body Syndrome?
How do you like it?

Asics Ayami Tunic: Giveaway!

2011-07-01T07:48:00.000-05:00

It's longer than a tank top, but it's shorter than a dress. Guess what that is? Well, it's the Asics Ayami Tunic of course!

And I get to give one to you, my dear readers!

About the Asics Ayami Tunic

The fabric has wicking qualities, keeping you dry, and not sweaty.
The fit is great, no peeping of the bra through the armholes.
Cleavage can be adjusted to your tast!
Dainty ruffle at the bottom, making you feel girly.
Hoodie, for when it's raining, or when you have a bad hair day

How to win this great tunic!

All you have to do is put Mom's Home Run into your linklist, and then leave a comment telling me, you've done just that!

On July the 31st, a winner will be chosen with the Random Generator, and will be announced on Mom's Home Run. So don't forget to drop by!

Or if you're really smart, just subscribe to my RSS feed

Follow the foot path?

2011-06-30T09:44:00.002-05:00

I like to boldly run, where no one has run before, so today I decided to follow this little dirt path I discovered last year. And as I ran along the potholes, immediately twisting my ankle, I proudly thought: 'Look at me! I'm doing cross country!'

Patent request!

At the end of the path stood a primitive, cardboard sign, and someone had written: 'Footpath' on it. Beneath the word 'Footpath' were two arrows, pointing in opposite directions. I decided to go to the left, because I thought I knew where the path would lead me. And in my mind I started writing my request for a patent on this new Runners Route.

Where did that ditch come from?

But after stumbling along for a few minutes, I couldn't help but think there was a whole lot of grass and not a lot of path. But I just hate 'turning back' so I ploughed on, until I couldn't plough anymore, because a ditch appeared out of nowhere.

I looked at the ditch, which clearly had aspirations to become a ravine. Then I sighed because I knew: 'I will have to 'go back'. As I ripped my request for a patent to pieces I ran back the way I had come. But then I saw this other little path, and decided to take that. Anything to avoid going back the way I came!

Serial killer!

Then suddenly I saw this serial killer, wearing a big white hat! I nearly died with fright, but then I discovered it was a scarecrow. Still breathless from my near death experience, I left the scary path, and found out I was a very long way away from home.

'And what have you learned from this experience?' I asked myself sternly.
And I humbly answered: 'You should never trust footpaths that are written with a felt pen. And sometimes it's best to return the way you came, because otherwise you may be far, far away from home.'

Running Views: Anyone thirsty?

2011-06-29T04:00:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

New running mantra: spaghetti!

2011-06-26T01:00:00.001-05:00

I've got a new mantra! Mantras are recommended all the time, as a great way to run further and faster. To prevent my mantra becoming a desperate 'How much further can I go on?!' I try to make up more positive ones.

For years I told myself: 'Youcandoit, youcandoit, youcandoit!', and during my religious phase I mumbled: 'Jesus Christ, son of God, rescue me!'

But my new mantra is: 'Spaghetti!' It's my way of reminding myself to loosen up those shoulders, until they don't touch my ears anymore. I want a supple body, like boiled spaghetti. This new mantra also comes in handy as a mom.

Whenever I have to help my son do his math homework, and I feel like tearing my hair out, I quickly think: 'Spaghetti, spaghetti, spaghetti!', and I feel the tension leave my body.

Do you have a running mantra?

Figurerunning

2011-06-24T00:55:00.000-05:00

Do you ever feel that, as a mom, you just run around in circles? Well do I have some good news for you: there's a new phenomenon called figurerunning, and it's all about running in pretty figures!

You could for example, run the figure of the Statue of Liberty! Or if that's too difficult, a big Magnum ice cream!

Figuring out figurerunning

All you need is a running watch with gps, or your mobile phone. In case of the mobile phone you need to download an application to track your run. For example Runkeeper
After you've got your gear, you need to think of a figure to run. Let's say you've had a bad day, so you decide to run a big middle finger.
Just look at the map and find this figure in the streets. Start your gps tracker and start running.
After you've finished your figure, you can upload your run to Runkeeper, and upload your work of art to your blog or send it Figurerunning.com

So if you feel like you're just running in circles, go and run a car!

Did you know about figurerunning?
Is it for you?

Must-have for running moms!

2011-06-21T23:21:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

Running: glasses or contact lenzes?

2011-06-21T02:59:00.000-05:00

For a whole year my laziness beat my vanity, and I wore glasses during my runs. Then, to my surprise, my vanity made a come-back! It made my laziness eat its dust, and this morning, I wore my contact lenzes again during my run.

And I was very grateful to my vanity, because it was raining. And running with glasses when it's raining, is no fun at all. Rain makes me peer through my glasses like an old granny. Sometimes, in desperation, I'll even take my glasses off. But then I'll stumble along like I've had way too much to drink, because my eyes really need some help seeing clearly.

This morning however, everything was fine, because I wore my contact lenzes, thanks to my vanity. And as I was running along it occurred to me that lenzes beat glasses all the way.

Contact lenzes during runs: Pros

They don't get foggy
They don't get splashed with rain
They don't slide off your sweaty nose
You can put sunglasses on to hide your face that's contorted from the effort of running

Do your wear glasses or contact lenzes during your runs?

Beware of the Trap of Ambition!

2011-06-19T12:20:00.001-05:00

I see it happening around me all the time: runners and moms, falling prey to the Trap of Ambition!

'I only ran forty minutes today,' a runner will say, sounding like she just heard Walmart went belly-up. 'I didn't even make it to sixty minutes.'
I ask them: 'Who said you had to run for sixty minutes?'
They look at me dumbfounded. 'Huh?!'
The same tragic faith can hit moms: 'I set out to build the Statue of Liberty from toothpicks, with my two year old. But it collapsed when we put on the final touches. I feel terrible! I'm a big, fat failure as mom!'

Hey, where did the fun go?!

The Trap of Ambition sucks out all the fun, and makes you feel hopeless. Worst case scenario: the victim decides to throw in the towel.
'I stopped running, because it became so hard,' a victim of the Trap of Ambition might say. 'What's twenty minutes of running? It's nothing. I might as well quit all together.'

Faulty reasoning

It's the same faulty reasoning people, who can't keep their mits off the candy, use: 'I don't really like mars bars, so this one doesn't count!' Or: 'If I eat this bag of chips really fast, the calories won't matter.' But believe me, the calories will matter. Just like twenty minutes of running matter!

More doesn't equal better

So beware of the Trap of Ambition! 'More' doesn't always equal 'better'. You know what? Sometimes less is more. Running a half hour, three times a week, is better than running 90 minute once a week.

So don't set the bar too high, because nothing sucks as much as being doomed to fail. Let the bar be a nice challenge, one you can make with a bit of effort. Set it too low, it'll cost you your feeling of satisfaction. Set it too high, it will be detrimental to your motivation.

Do you ever fall victim to the Trap of Ambition?
As a mom, or as a runner? Or both?

Can moms wear running clothes to school?

2011-06-17T07:04:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday, Thursday and Fridaymorning I take the kids to school wearing my running clothes. It saves me some time! I drop them off, and off I run.

Recently I read this post of a mom called Irene. She wrote 'sporty moms' make her feel guilty. And it made me think: 'Do the other moms at school get annoyed at the sight of me in my running clothes? Do I make them feel bad about themselves?'

Here's what Irene wrote: 'Seeing a sporty mom at school is a bad start of the day for me. Just seeing them in jazzpants, makes me feel guilty.'
She then writes how she got over her guilt when she realized these women tálk more than they work out. Whereas she, being a housewife, does a five miler every day just by doing the housework.

But I don't talk, I actually run. Four to five times a week. To keep myself healthy both physically, and mentally. Not running has become unthinkable. It would be like not brushing my teeth: it just doesn't feel right.

And so I take my kids to school in my running clothes. And I hope I inspire some other moms, instead of making them feel guilty.

How do you feel about moms wearing running clothes to school?

And the winner of the Exceed Sports Earphones is:

2011-06-17T03:23:00.001-05:00

Random.org selected number 61 as the winner of the Exceed Sports Earphones. Hotsnotty2, that would be you! I can only hope Hotsnotty number 1 won't be too jealous.

The good people of Auria.com will be sending the earphones directly to you, so just use the contact button at the top of this page to leave your full name and shipping info.

Thanks everybody for participating in this giveaway, and leaving your comments. They were much appreciated!

What kind of cable girl are you?

2011-06-16T11:51:00.002-05:00

I once made a movie. A movie called 'Look at me run!' It featured me running back and forth, and the central theme was: 'How do I put my foot down?' I tried to get Stephen Spielberg to direct it, but alas, he was busy doing something else.

Unfortunately my movie was a big flop. Personally I do not blame myself. I blame my cables. If only I'd had some HDMI cables, my movie would have been pictureperfect, and I could have watched it on my HDTV.

What's HDMI when it's at home?

Don't know what HDMI is? It stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface, and offers a simple plug-and-play solution. HDMI cables are available in all kinds of lovely colours. You can use them to connect your computer's video card to your HDTV.

At optimization-world you can buy a VGA cable for only 7.99. The VGA-cable is the Ying to the HMI-cable's Yang. Put them together, and you get something great.

Wanna get technical about it? Check out this wikipedia page about video graphis array

What's this got to do with running?

What's the point of owning high-end equipment, if you don't have the right cable to get the most out of it? It's like running: your body may be in the best possible shape, but if you put the wrong shoes on, you won't get the best out of it.

The same applies to your tv and computer: you need the right cables to get the full experience.

My mind before a run

Does this look familiar to you? It's how my mind feels before a run! But it's also a Messy Cable Contest. The winner wins 100 dollars store credit at Optimized Cable Co.

I could certainly use some of that.

Very special ad from Brooks shoes. Who wouldn't want shoes like that!

2011-06-15T01:02:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

You can do 60 here!

2011-06-14T04:43:00.000-05:00

We were on a family outing, taking a leisurely stroll, when my youngest son Piet (7) spotted a sign, saying the speed limit was 60 miles per hour.

'Oh, you can do 60 here!' he shouted in delight, and proceeded to run like crazy. I wouldn't be surprised if he got to 60.

He made me stop and think. It was beautiful to see: his enthusiasm and his belief he could run at 60 miles an hour! As a runner I've always been content with a speed limit of 5k per hour, but now I'm going to set my sights higher!

Sometimes you shouldn't see the limit, but the possibility!

How to combine running with motherhood?

2011-06-12T08:28:00.000-05:00

The magazine that is Runner's World scares me. They always feature skinny men, wearing very small running shorts, who whine it took them two hours to complete a marathon. I just find it hard to sympatize. Maybe it's because I would already be grateful to fínish a marathon.

So I was pleasantly surprised when I read an article about 'regular' runners: mommies! The article is about combining running with the busy life of a mom, and how to do this.

According to the article there are three ways to succesfully combine running with motherhood.

Join a runner's club

One of the moms featured, Evy, runs at a running club that offers childcare. While the moms run, their kids are well taken care of. It sounds a lot like paradise, and I would have loved this when my kids were little.

Join a runner's group

Amy joined a group of moms who run every Tuesday night at eight o'clock in the evening. You can just show up, and if you can't make it, you don't have to let them know. It's all very casual.

Combination training

Becky is very inventive: she travels to work by train, and on her way back she gets out way too soon. And then she runs home!

I use the combination method

My way of integrating running into my life as a mom, looks a lot like Becky's. For example: I take the kids to school in my running clothes, and run home after dropping them off. And when we go for a visit to my parents, I always run home.

What method do you use to integrate running into your life as a mom?

Thoughts and feelings during a marathon, and Summer Vacation!

2011-06-10T02:43:00.000-05:00

This movie very accurately describes the process I go through as a mom during Summer Vacation! I start out very positive and hopeful, but soon I start to think: 'How much longer will this go on?'

I run the whole gamut of feelings: from hope and triumph, to despair and exhaustion. And in the end, relief that it's over.

Can you relate?

Motivation device, if you don't feel like running

2011-06-08T01:39:00.000-05:00

My kids have one of these… It gets me right out the door.

Wordless Wednesday

Running in books: After the party

2011-06-06T05:33:00.002-05:00

I often find myself reading a book where the main character goes out for a run. I love characters that run, and I'm going to start a special category on this blog for books in which running is mentioned!

If you know any books, please let me know, or email me! the quotation/text that's about running!

Let's kick this category off with Lisa Jewell's novel 'After the party'!

'It was a warm morning. Jem was taking Scarlett to nursery. Ralph was going for a run. Running was an activity that Ralph had always viewed with some suspicion. There were three women who ran past Ralph and Jem's bedroom window every single morning at 6.45 a.m. exactly. In the winter months this would occur in pitchblackness and be utterly unthinkable to Ralph.

Why, he wondered, would anyone peel themselves from a warm bed, pull on a pair of leggings en pound the streets in the ark? Even during more civilised hours it struck Ralph as a slightly unnatural thing to do. If an alien were to land in Herne Hill, sit himself at a pavement table outside a café and look around himself at humanity, after a while he might think he had worked out what was going on, and the someone in neoprene would run past, pat-pat-pat, ears plugged with white wires, eyes staring blankly adhead and throw the alien completely off course.

But then Spring had happened and the idea of cloisering himself away in the windowless, strip-lit obscurity of the gym has lost its appeal and Ralph had put his prejudices to the back of his mind, his trainers to the pavement, and become a born-again runner.

He loved the feel of his feet against the pavement and the music in his ears. He loved the searing coldness of the air being dragged into his lungs and shot out again. And he especially loved the sense of begin both part of humanity and yet removed from it by sped, by mission.

How I recharge my batteries

2011-06-04T04:18:00.000-05:00

We have a lot of batteries in our house. It's an occupational hazard of being a mom. When I was still a young and innocent mommy, I greatly invested in wood colored building blocks for my kids. And I solemnly vowed: no plastic in óur house!

Fast forward fifteen years, and the building blocks have been replaced by a Wii, and a Playstation. And these are accompanied by battery devouring controllers. So I greatly invested in rechargeable batteries.

But the most important battery of them all is me! As a mom I need to recharge my batteries regularly. And the best way for me to do this, is by running. Even if I don't feel like going out for a run, I force myself to do it anyway, because I know wit absolute certainty: afterwards I will feel much better.

Sometimes I even feel so powerful after a run, I invite my kids to build a tower.
Of dusty wood colored building blocks.

www.skinnyscoop.com

Fiddle Run

2011-06-03T09:18:00.000-05:00

Today I had the most awful Fiddle Run. My hair wouldn't stay in my bun, and kept flying into my eyes. My little shorts tried to go where only my gynaecologist has gone before, because I'd decided to go commando, and my Exceed Sport Phones kept falling out.

I know I wrote a very positive review about Exceed Sport Phones, and it's still true. However, it all depends on putting them into your ear the right way, and lately I can't seem to manage that. They keep falling out. Sometimes it works: no matter what I do, or how windy it is, they stay put. But today wasn't one of these days. I have developed some serious trust issues with these earphones.

And I just hate to fiddle and run. I couldn't concentrate on my running, because I kept waiting for those earphones to fall out. And when they weren't giving me trouble, I was busy adjusting my shorts. And when I'd done that, my hair would fly into my eyes. And then the earphones would fall out again.

Fiddle and run is no fun at all. Next time I'm not going commando, I'm going to use other earphones, ánd I'm going to wear a headband.

My next run will be bliss.

Running: a sign of the times?

2011-06-02T10:52:00.000-05:00

As more and more people turn to running, scientists are scratching their heads wondering: 'Why is running becoming so popular?'

Greg Richards of the University of Tilburg ventures a guess: 'People don't want the commitment of a team sport, where you have to be there at a certain time. They dó like the informality of running groups they can join whenever it suits them.'

I can relate!

I can totally relate to the first part of his explanation: I too, do not want to be bound to a schedule, of 'having to be' somewhere at a certain time. That's why I love running so much: all it takes, is me running out the door.

No running groups for me

This is why I did nót join a running group, because that would still mean having to make a commitment. And I feel very strongly that you should honour your commitments. That's why I'm careful not to make too many. Besides, I love to be alone during my runs.

Paradox

Having said that: I háve to run every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Each day has its own running route, and its own time table. I don't get it: how can I hate having to adhere to a schedule, when I have a running schedule myself?! One that I enforce diligently?

Sometimes I moan to my husband: 'I háve to go out for my run, and I really don't feel like it.'
Then he says: 'You don't háve to, you wánt to!'

What do you think: is the growing popularity of running a symptome of commitment phobia?

Running clothes: my Summer and Winterlook!

2011-06-01T01:14:00.000-05:00

… hot! Yet cool.

Plain sad.

Wordless Wednesday

No Junk Mail for me, except if...

2011-05-30T05:14:00.007-05:00

One of my favorite songs during my runs, is Teea Goan's song 'Letter from God'.

In this song she sings about going to the mailbox in her pyjamas, and finding a letter. She almost doesn't open it because she thinks it's junkmail: 'junkmail I guessed'. But she opens it anyway.

And then it turns out to be a letter from God, telling her he's been keeping an eye on her because he's seen her struggle lately. I'm kind of always struggling, especially during my runs, so this song really speaks to me.

Unfortunately letters from God are very rare, and usually when it looks like junk mail, smells like junk mail, it really ís junk mail. Luckily there's a great way to reduce your junkmail. Simply sign up at Catalog Choice, and let those pesky advertisers know: No Junk Mail!

Catalog Choice

You can search their list of catalogs, phone books, coupons and other junk mail, and tell them which ones you can do without. So you can still get the ones you dó like! A great side effect is you'll have less clutter and you'll save some trees.

So bye bye to unwanted junk mail!

Except when they're really letters from God!

This is no junk mail!

Letter from God

How do you feel about junk mail?

Run Interruptus

2011-05-29T13:14:00.000-05:00

In an effort to bond with my eldest son Jan (14), I invited him along for a five miler to a nearby town. 'You can have a glass of coke, once we're there!' I bribed him.

I decided some careful dressing was in order, because I didn't want him to get too cold or too warm. So I handed him my Target tights, my Target thermoshirt, and not one, but twó of my coolmax tops. And as a final touch I added my old running jacket.
'That's a lot of clothes mom,' my son said, but obediently he put them all on.

After about seven minutes into our run he declared: 'My ankle hurts,' and after another ten minutes he said: 'I have to pee.'
'Just a little bit further, then there's some bushes you can pee behind.'
But his ankle couldn't make it, so I ordered him to rotate his ankle, to loosen it up.

'I can only do 'squares' mom!' he observed, as he very stiffly tried to make little circles with his ankle.
'Now the other ankle!' I ordered.
'Both at the same time?' he asked, and nearly fell, laughing so hard about his own joke.
After that we still had to find a tree so he could pee, and then finally, we could resume our run.

But after only two minutes, his ankle sabotaged him again, and after another three minutes he had to walk. So in the end we continued our run alternating running, with walking, with rotating, and lots of breaks in between.

When we were almost there I surrendered to the inevitable and decided to just enjoy my wálk with my eldest son. Even though I've never had such a 'run interruptus' I still loved it, because I had a great time with my son!

Motherhood makes you a better runner

2011-05-27T05:38:00.000-05:00

Experts say that motherhood might make you a better, and faster runner. Several women ran significantly faster after giving birth, than before.

Verklaringen

A Dr. James Pivarnik declares: 'If there is a physical advantage, it's only during the first two months.' Pivarnik thinks a feeling of relief and satisfaction may be the course of the improvement.

Chris Lundgren, author of Running and Pregnancy, ran the marathon faster after giving birth. 'In the back of your head you think during a marathon: 'This is nothing compared to labor!'

Four kids máde me a runner

Giving bírth to four kids motivated me to becóme a runner. I needed something to ground myself, to find myself again.

And five kids are my reasons to stay a runner!

What turned you into a runner?

Nike Running Skapri: Product Review

2011-05-26T05:44:00.000-05:00

I'd been eyeing the Nike Running Skapris for quite a while, thinking the combination of a running skirt with some capri tights would flatter me. And I like to be flattered!

Nike Ladies Skapri: cheaper on Wiggle

But the price tag for the flattery of the Nike Ladies Skapri, would set me back about 72 dollars, and that was too high a price to pay. But then I found webshop Wiggle.co.uk, where they cost only 37 dollars!

So I threw them in my virtual basket, and ran to the virtual check out. A few days later my Nike Ladies Skapri arrived, and of course I put them on immediately. They felt lovely, and really comfortable. And there was this handy little pocket at the back, which closed with a zipper, where you can put your key and stuff.

Nike Ladies Skapri: running either too hot or too cold!

So all was well, but every time I went out for a run, I didn't wear my skapri! And this is why: Nike Ladies Skapri look best when worn with a little tank top, or a short sleeved shirt. But every time the weather was warm enough for bare arms, the tights were too hot. And if the tights weren't too hot, I had to wear a long sleeved top, and didn't look so good.

Yes I admit it: I'm a woman. And I'm vain.

Cut off them tights!

But then I had this brilliant idea: why not cut off those pesky tights?! After all, I had nothing to lose. So I did, and it's a big succes! I wear my new little running skirt all the time.

To sum up

The combination of a running skirt with capri tights doesn't do it for me. I prefer to only wear a running skirt during Summer, and during Winter I prefer only tights.

Do you have any experience with the combo: running skirt and tights?
What do you think of running skapris?

Runner's Bonbonbloc!

2011-05-25T01:09:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

Parent and run

2011-05-23T02:16:00.000-05:00

I often worry about not being a good enough mom.

And when this feeling gets to be too much, I crumble, and invite one of my children to tag along during a run. This is a big gesture for me, because running is all about spending some time on my own. Without any children!

This Saturday I invited my youngest son, Piet, along. After about ten minutes Piet asked in his little boy's voice: 'How much further, mommy?'
'Not far at all! We'll only do a short run!'

To please him, after about fifteen minutes of running (me) and biking (Piet), we stopped for a cup of coffee (me) and some icecream (Piet).
'Isn't this nice, Piet?' I asked, because I wanted some acknowledgement about being a great mom and all that.
'Will I still get an icecream after dinner?' he said worriedly. 'Because if not, it wouldn't be fair, since this one is very small.'

After demolishing his icecream Piet wanted to leave. And when we were about five minutes on our way, he once again wondered how much further it would be.
So I took a short cut, and when we got home after about ten minutes, Piet said in a smug tone of voice: 'I did a good deed today mommy!'
'What good deed?'
I kept you company during your run!

Which only goes to show: no good deed goes unpunished….

Running encounters of the special kind

2011-05-20T02:47:00.000-05:00

I was running along a dirt path, when a car passed me by, honking loudly. I looked up, and saw this guy waving and grinning at me, like a mad man.
'Stupid men!' I mumbled to myself. 'He nearly gave me a heart attack!'

Then this thought popped into my head: 'God must be feeling playful today,' and just like that, my annoyance disappeared, and I smiled.

Because I like to believe there's a little bit of 'God' in all of us. And assuming this is true, isn't it lovely how you can meet him or her just about everywhere?! It reminds me of this song: 'What if God was one of us?'

Sometimes he's that driver honking loudly at you, sometimes she's two little birds doing a beautiful dance across the tree tops.

So when another car skidded to a halt next to me, and a man leaned out asking: 'Can you tell me how to get to the nearest MacDonalds?' I removed my earphones and explained it to him like I had all the time in the world.

And as I ran along again, I thought to myself: 'I hope that guy is thinking: 'God sure was friendly today! And a great navigator to boot!'

Do Ladies Runs discriminate against men?

2011-05-19T06:42:00.000-05:00

After two feminist waves of women fighting for equal rights, there's an interesting phenomenon in the world of running: Ladies Runs.

And they are getting more and more popular, and frequent. Ladies Runs are runs especially for women, and men are not appreciated, except to cheer the women on.

One of the reasons to have Ladies Runs, I heard, is that men have this disgusting habit of cleaning their nose while running. They do this by applying a finger to the right nostril and then they snort.
Yuck.

So I can certainly understand the longing for Ladies Runs: being equal is all very well, but not if you have to duck flying snot.

Do you think Ladies Runs are a good thing?
Do Ladies Runs discriminate against men?
And would Men Runs be acceptable?

Giveaway: Exceed sport earphones!

2011-05-17T06:50:00.001-05:00

Great news! The good people of Auria.com have kindly offered a free pair of Exceed sport earphones to the readers of Mom's Home Run!

There are six ways to enter: the more ways you use, the bigger your chances of winning.

All you gotta do is this:

Follow Mom's Home Run on Twitter
Follow Mom's Home Run on Blogger
Put a link to Mom's Home Run on your bloglist
Blog about this great giveaway
Tweet this great giveaway
Leave me a comment for every of the above steps you took

Every comment you leave is another entry for the giveaway.

So grab this opportunity to win yourself some superb earphones, that don't fall out of your ears. Ever!

A winner will be chosen at June the 17th, by Random Generator, and will be announced the same day on Mom's Home Run!

Read my review of these great earphones!

I'm making a list

2011-05-16T05:31:00.000-05:00

It was the early morning, around sevenish, and I was lying in bed contemplating all the reasons why I would nót go out for a run.

I ran yesterday, and the day before that, and the day before thát
I'm tired
Sometimes you gotta take a break!
I don't want to

Then halfway through my list of reasons not to run, suddenly out of nowhere, there appeared this big white light! And a thunderous voice said: 'You can stay in bed for the next half hour making your list, or you can go out for a run.'
As I lay there trembling with fear I realized: I just had me an ephiphany!

And I decided that I might as well go out for a run, because I knew afterwards I would feel all glowy and smug about a run well run. Whereas if I stayed in bed making my list, I would feel sweaty and lazy.

So I got out of bed and went for a run.
That stupid list of reasons not to run would just have to wait!

Turboxtax: not taxing at all

2011-05-14T06:24:00.000-05:00

Me and my taxes, we don't get along. Doing my taxes is right up there with cleaning the toilets after a very spicy Mexican meal. In fact, when I really don't feel like going for a run, I tell myself: 'If you don't go, you have to do your taxes,' and that gets me out the door real quick!

However, it's something everyone just has to face. And there is one thing you won't hear me complaining about, and that's getting a refund. I just love refunds. They give me this great rush of exhileration, just like the ones I get after a good run.

It's just that I don't quite know how to go about getting them. But then I read these words at TurboTax: 'Step-by-step guidance, like a GPS' and I thought to myself: 'Wait a minute! I know GPS! It's something runners use!'

Turbotax scores!

At tax comparison Turbotax gets 19 out of 20 points, and leaves the other tax programs eating its dust. If Turbotax was a runner, it would be a winner. It really takes the 'taxing' out of doing taxes.

Are you running out of time?

Doing your taxes can feel like preparing to run a marathon, and sometimes you just feel there just isn't enough time! If only your mommy would write you a sick note to show the IRS people!

Luckily Turbotax offers the next best thing to a sick note: an irs extension form 2009.

And I just love their slogan: 'Get a little extra time-and a lot of peace of mind'.

I wonder if they can get me an extension as a mom on doing the laundry too… I could really use one.