MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 12/14/2013
Mommyathlon Motivator for the week - the awesome Melanie - read her story!!!
She states:
I am a stay at home, homeschooling momma of 4 kiddos. Just over a year and a half ago I had a health scare that was possibly connected to my weight. For the first time I admitted what everyone else already knew, but didn't say, I was overweight. I vowed to change this. I started walking 5 days a week, then I started running, and I didn't stop! I found a love for running I never could have imagined. Last Thanksgiving I ran/walked my first 5K. Since then I've done several more 5k's, 2 10k's, a 10 miler and my first 1/2 marathon! I have gone further and faster than I ever could have ever imagined. I have all lost 60+ pounds. This year my 3 oldest will be running a 5K with me on Thanksgiving morning. 3 days a week we pack up the little one in the jogging stroller and we set off for our training run. When I have to wait to run until later in the day, many times they hop on their bikes and ride along as I run. I am thrilled as a mom that my kiddos see the good that has come from my running and that they want to participate too. They are the best encouragement! There is nothing better than seeing my family waiting for me at the finish line. On the days I want to give up I remind myself that they deserve a happy and healthy Momma. Knowing they are watching me gets me out the door each morning and keeps me reaching for my goals.
Keep it up Melanie - WAY TO GO!!!!
She states:
I am a stay at home, homeschooling momma of 4 kiddos. Just over a year and a half ago I had a health scare that was possibly connected to my weight. For the first time I admitted what everyone else already knew, but didn't say, I was overweight. I vowed to change this. I started walking 5 days a week, then I started running, and I didn't stop! I found a love for running I never could have imagined. Last Thanksgiving I ran/walked my first 5K. Since then I've done several more 5k's, 2 10k's, a 10 miler and my first 1/2 marathon! I have gone further and faster than I ever could have ever imagined. I have all lost 60+ pounds. This year my 3 oldest will be running a 5K with me on Thanksgiving morning. 3 days a week we pack up the little one in the jogging stroller and we set off for our training run. When I have to wait to run until later in the day, many times they hop on their bikes and ride along as I run. I am thrilled as a mom that my kiddos see the good that has come from my running and that they want to participate too. They are the best encouragement! There is nothing better than seeing my family waiting for me at the finish line. On the days I want to give up I remind myself that they deserve a happy and healthy Momma. Knowing they are watching me gets me out the door each morning and keeps me reaching for my goals.
Keep it up Melanie - WAY TO GO!!!!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 12/07/2013
Here is this week's Mommyathlon Motivator - the awesome Jody!
She writes:
I ran my first 1/2 marathon last April, just as something fun to do on my weight loss journey after my second child. I actually pushed too hard too soon and ended up with ITBS several weeks before I ran. The race was miserable. My sister, a PT, advised me not to continue running. So I rode the spin bike and swam (I started out as a swimmer at 12 years old ). My knee began to heal and I scored big on an Ironman Double BoB Jogger from a neighbor. I started taking my babies out at least 4 times a week. Slowly working up to 3 miles and venturing a little further each week. We worked up to 10 and 12 miles, usually putting 20-30 miles in a week. This is how I trained the babies to ride longer and longer distances. They usually fell asleep and I had some peace and quiet to myself. had to train them to ride that long. My sister got sucked into running longer distances with us and we motivated her to run a ten miler. Two days later we signed up for a half marathon. Together my sister and I completed the 1/2 without walking.
After the 1/2 I knew I wanted to do a
full marathon. I found on only 1.5 hours away and got signed up. The babies and I really started tracking miles in our stroller. They did all the long runs with me. They have been some of the best company I have. They are super heavy (jjs 30#, Celia's 20#, and the stroller is around 20, we're talking around 70# of pushing for miles and miles and miles. Also we aren't allowed to leave our neighborhood so we do lots of circles .
I get a lot of support from some neighbors and gawks from others while we ran this summer, but I stopped caring what I looked like went from being passed in my first 1/2 marathon on minor hills to passing others on mile 15+ on huge hills in my full marathon. I attribute all of that to my little running buddies!
My marathon was possibly the hardest thing I've ever done. It was longer than my unmedicated labor, lol! My sister jumped in at mile 18 and ran to the finish line with me. Miles 22-25 were so hard. My knees were shot and I was on the brink of tears. We both cried when I crossed the finish line.
It's been an incredible 7 months, it has been of one of the most fulfilling times of my life with my children and my sister. I am only looking forward to doing more extreme running and eventually a full ironman. I think the best part of this journey had been that I can take my babies with me and teach them the benefits of working out and being healthy. I wouldn't have it any other way.
Thank you so much for sharing Jody!
She writes:
I ran my first 1/2 marathon last April, just as something fun to do on my weight loss journey after my second child. I actually pushed too hard too soon and ended up with ITBS several weeks before I ran. The race was miserable. My sister, a PT, advised me not to continue running. So I rode the spin bike and swam (I started out as a swimmer at 12 years old ). My knee began to heal and I scored big on an Ironman Double BoB Jogger from a neighbor. I started taking my babies out at least 4 times a week. Slowly working up to 3 miles and venturing a little further each week. We worked up to 10 and 12 miles, usually putting 20-30 miles in a week. This is how I trained the babies to ride longer and longer distances. They usually fell asleep and I had some peace and quiet to myself. had to train them to ride that long. My sister got sucked into running longer distances with us and we motivated her to run a ten miler. Two days later we signed up for a half marathon. Together my sister and I completed the 1/2 without walking.
After the 1/2 I knew I wanted to do a
full marathon. I found on only 1.5 hours away and got signed up. The babies and I really started tracking miles in our stroller. They did all the long runs with me. They have been some of the best company I have. They are super heavy (jjs 30#, Celia's 20#, and the stroller is around 20, we're talking around 70# of pushing for miles and miles and miles. Also we aren't allowed to leave our neighborhood so we do lots of circles .
I get a lot of support from some neighbors and gawks from others while we ran this summer, but I stopped caring what I looked like went from being passed in my first 1/2 marathon on minor hills to passing others on mile 15+ on huge hills in my full marathon. I attribute all of that to my little running buddies!
My marathon was possibly the hardest thing I've ever done. It was longer than my unmedicated labor, lol! My sister jumped in at mile 18 and ran to the finish line with me. Miles 22-25 were so hard. My knees were shot and I was on the brink of tears. We both cried when I crossed the finish line.
It's been an incredible 7 months, it has been of one of the most fulfilling times of my life with my children and my sister. I am only looking forward to doing more extreme running and eventually a full ironman. I think the best part of this journey had been that I can take my babies with me and teach them the benefits of working out and being healthy. I wouldn't have it any other way.
Thank you so much for sharing Jody!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 11/30/2013
Meet Pamela - one amazing lady! She runs the page Old Woman Running and is committed to work her way to her first marathon.
Pamela writes: On October 20 I celebrated my 59th birthday. And I committed to run a marathon before I am 60.
Some background information that perhaps makes this a bit more interesting. I have been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes (15 years), hypertension (most of my adult life), and heart disease (two years). Not exactly your typical runner. Hence the name of the Facebook page where I am chronicling this journey, Old Woman Running.
Also, I was one of the generation of women in high school before Title Nine took effect. Title Nine mandated that athletics for girls would be available in public schools. Not that I would have participated if there had been athletic pursuits provided. Growing up I was never fond of sweat.
But then several years ago I managed to loose 80 pounds by going to Weight Watchers and I started walking and then progressed to running. With the amazing support of my husband of 38 years, I ran my first 5K. After several 5Ks, I set my sights on a half-marathon. I completed two half-marathons and then things changed.
I decided that I could maintain my weight loss without the support of Weight Watchers and it is not difficult to figure out what happened I gained about half of the weight back. Not good. But, to my credit, I did continue to run. It was just much more difficult.
So with my 59th birthday looming and perhaps a bit of a midlife crisis thing going on, I decided I would lose the piano that I carry around my waist and run a marathon. So I have rejoined Weight Watchers, put my running shoes in the front of the closet, and started again.
The weight is coming off again and I am slowly increasing my mileage (don't forget, the older you get the easier it is to get injured and the recovery time is much longer).
And, Lord willing, next fall this Old Woman Running will complete a marathon.
GO PAMELA!!!! Much
Pamela writes: On October 20 I celebrated my 59th birthday. And I committed to run a marathon before I am 60.
Some background information that perhaps makes this a bit more interesting. I have been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes (15 years), hypertension (most of my adult life), and heart disease (two years). Not exactly your typical runner. Hence the name of the Facebook page where I am chronicling this journey, Old Woman Running.
Also, I was one of the generation of women in high school before Title Nine took effect. Title Nine mandated that athletics for girls would be available in public schools. Not that I would have participated if there had been athletic pursuits provided. Growing up I was never fond of sweat.
But then several years ago I managed to loose 80 pounds by going to Weight Watchers and I started walking and then progressed to running. With the amazing support of my husband of 38 years, I ran my first 5K. After several 5Ks, I set my sights on a half-marathon. I completed two half-marathons and then things changed.
I decided that I could maintain my weight loss without the support of Weight Watchers and it is not difficult to figure out what happened I gained about half of the weight back. Not good. But, to my credit, I did continue to run. It was just much more difficult.
So with my 59th birthday looming and perhaps a bit of a midlife crisis thing going on, I decided I would lose the piano that I carry around my waist and run a marathon. So I have rejoined Weight Watchers, put my running shoes in the front of the closet, and started again.
The weight is coming off again and I am slowly increasing my mileage (don't forget, the older you get the easier it is to get injured and the recovery time is much longer).
And, Lord willing, next fall this Old Woman Running will complete a marathon.
GO PAMELA!!!! Much
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 11/23/2013
This week we have Nichole, nominated by her friend who wrote about her:
"She is a fantastic young woman and mother. She runs 5ks, half marathons and she runs her kids to school ball practice and church. She has 2 boys and a brand new baby girl. She recently ran her first 5k after her pregnancy in the hospice remembrance race for her mom. She is one awesome lady and she inspires me in so many ways!!"
Sounds like a Mommyathlon Motivator to me! Let's give this a lot of "likes" to congratulate her!
"She is a fantastic young woman and mother. She runs 5ks, half marathons and she runs her kids to school ball practice and church. She has 2 boys and a brand new baby girl. She recently ran her first 5k after her pregnancy in the hospice remembrance race for her mom. She is one awesome lady and she inspires me in so many ways!!"
Sounds like a Mommyathlon Motivator to me! Let's give this a lot of "likes" to congratulate her!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 11/16/2013
Check out Mara-Mon and give her a big "like". She is way cool and has transformed her body and lifestyle!
Mon states: Hi! I’m Monique. 30 year old wife and mother of two who has found running in the last 12 months and completely fallen in LOVE!
Here is my latest before/after photo: 3 years apart. I'm proud of it - but not because I believe you have to be slim and fit to be happy, but because it shows some of the journey I have been on in the last 3 years. I have had two babies, my eldest has just turned 3 and my youngest is 17 months old whom I just stopped nursing (yes mummas you CAN run long distance and nurse your baby successfully). I have gained and lost over 50kgs (110lbs). I started running just over 12 months ago and have completed 4 half marathons and just ran MY FIRST MARATHON!! I finished in 4:21:08 which I was absolutely delighted with. It was most definitely the toughest but most rewarding thing I have ever accomplished, aside from being a mommy of course. The before photo was after the birth of my first child, the after photo was during my marathon. I am proud of my progress, what I have achieved this year and my physical changes but MOST of all, I am proud of the changes I have made within myself. I feel truly happy! I have a passion! I have finally found something to do for ME! If you EVER doubt you can do it or feel overwhelmed with feeling you have too far to go..... DON'T! You CAN do whatever you set your mind to. Just believe in yourself an allow yourself to follow your dreams. I would have NEVER in a million years thought I would be able to run a marathon, and here I am.
Mon states: Hi! I’m Monique. 30 year old wife and mother of two who has found running in the last 12 months and completely fallen in LOVE!
Here is my latest before/after photo: 3 years apart. I'm proud of it - but not because I believe you have to be slim and fit to be happy, but because it shows some of the journey I have been on in the last 3 years. I have had two babies, my eldest has just turned 3 and my youngest is 17 months old whom I just stopped nursing (yes mummas you CAN run long distance and nurse your baby successfully). I have gained and lost over 50kgs (110lbs). I started running just over 12 months ago and have completed 4 half marathons and just ran MY FIRST MARATHON!! I finished in 4:21:08 which I was absolutely delighted with. It was most definitely the toughest but most rewarding thing I have ever accomplished, aside from being a mommy of course. The before photo was after the birth of my first child, the after photo was during my marathon. I am proud of my progress, what I have achieved this year and my physical changes but MOST of all, I am proud of the changes I have made within myself. I feel truly happy! I have a passion! I have finally found something to do for ME! If you EVER doubt you can do it or feel overwhelmed with feeling you have too far to go..... DON'T! You CAN do whatever you set your mind to. Just believe in yourself an allow yourself to follow your dreams. I would have NEVER in a million years thought I would be able to run a marathon, and here I am.
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 11/09/2013
The fabulous Nicole - check out her great page at Myfitfamily. Lots and lots of good stuff there!
Give her a "like" and read her story. Nicole states: My husband Chris and I have been married for 8 years and we have 4 beautiful kiddos; a 7 year old daughter, 4 year old boy/girl twins and a 7 month old baby boy. I'm a stay at home mom and wouldn't trade my job for anything in the world. My health and fitness journey didn't start until about a year after my first daughter was born. I had the ten last stubborn pounds of baby weight to lose and it wasn't budging! Up until that point I had never really worked out or made healthy food choices because I was naturally thin. I decided to join a gym and gave running a try. I couldn't run one mile. But I persisted and something amazing happened: running has changed my life for the better! Yes, it helped me lose those last pounds, but it became more than that. It is what led me to eating better (you can't run at your full potential without the right fuel for your body) and changed my focus from being thin (which doesn't always mean healthy) to be being fit, healthy and strong--both physically and mentally. Though I love my children dearly, I needed an outlet that would help me 'refill my cup' and running gives that to me. I can leave the kiddos with my husband and go out for a long run on the weekend and I come back recharged, meanwhile, they spent beautiful, quality time with their Daddy. Running, being active and eating healthy is part of our family culture. Though we indulge and have our lazy days, my husband and I are trying to build healthy habits now, so our kids don't have to struggle later in life. As I reflect on the person I used to be: filling my body with junk food, inactive and self-conscious in my own skin--I realize I've come a long way. I've run countless 5ks, 10ks, and half-marathons, 2 marathons and just signed up for my first ultra marathon. I make fitness and health a priority in my life and I've never felt better about being me! I feel like I'm a completely different person! The best part of this change is knowing I'm setting a great example to my children, especially my daughters, and I hope to show them that being thin isn't as important as being fit, healthy and strong, on the inside and out.
Give her a "like" and read her story. Nicole states: My husband Chris and I have been married for 8 years and we have 4 beautiful kiddos; a 7 year old daughter, 4 year old boy/girl twins and a 7 month old baby boy. I'm a stay at home mom and wouldn't trade my job for anything in the world. My health and fitness journey didn't start until about a year after my first daughter was born. I had the ten last stubborn pounds of baby weight to lose and it wasn't budging! Up until that point I had never really worked out or made healthy food choices because I was naturally thin. I decided to join a gym and gave running a try. I couldn't run one mile. But I persisted and something amazing happened: running has changed my life for the better! Yes, it helped me lose those last pounds, but it became more than that. It is what led me to eating better (you can't run at your full potential without the right fuel for your body) and changed my focus from being thin (which doesn't always mean healthy) to be being fit, healthy and strong--both physically and mentally. Though I love my children dearly, I needed an outlet that would help me 'refill my cup' and running gives that to me. I can leave the kiddos with my husband and go out for a long run on the weekend and I come back recharged, meanwhile, they spent beautiful, quality time with their Daddy. Running, being active and eating healthy is part of our family culture. Though we indulge and have our lazy days, my husband and I are trying to build healthy habits now, so our kids don't have to struggle later in life. As I reflect on the person I used to be: filling my body with junk food, inactive and self-conscious in my own skin--I realize I've come a long way. I've run countless 5ks, 10ks, and half-marathons, 2 marathons and just signed up for my first ultra marathon. I make fitness and health a priority in my life and I've never felt better about being me! I feel like I'm a completely different person! The best part of this change is knowing I'm setting a great example to my children, especially my daughters, and I hope to show them that being thin isn't as important as being fit, healthy and strong, on the inside and out.
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 11/02/2013
The awesome Sarah!
Sarah states:
I trained for my first half marathon back in 2008. Though, I've done numerous halves since then and PR'ing at 1:47, I haven't been able to train for any full marathons. Before my race, I actually had signed up for two full marathons in the past and ended up having to back out because I found out I was pregnant! Just wasn't meant to be. I now have 2 boys ages 3 1/2 and 21 months. They are the best cheerleaders and love coming to cheer me on. I'm lucky to have a very supportive husband who gives me the time and encouragement to train. It's a huge benefit! I'm already contemplating my next full to get under the 4 hour mark!
GO SARAH, I'm sure you will reach that goal! Thank you so much for sharing your story!
Sarah states:
I trained for my first half marathon back in 2008. Though, I've done numerous halves since then and PR'ing at 1:47, I haven't been able to train for any full marathons. Before my race, I actually had signed up for two full marathons in the past and ended up having to back out because I found out I was pregnant! Just wasn't meant to be. I now have 2 boys ages 3 1/2 and 21 months. They are the best cheerleaders and love coming to cheer me on. I'm lucky to have a very supportive husband who gives me the time and encouragement to train. It's a huge benefit! I'm already contemplating my next full to get under the 4 hour mark!
GO SARAH, I'm sure you will reach that goal! Thank you so much for sharing your story!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 10/26/2013
Check out Movin' it with Michelle Running, Recipes, and Real life Adventures - awesome page for recipes, getting fit and more and more! Go give her a Mommyathlon like, she rocks!
Michelle says:
So here I am, a Mom of 2 girls, ages 7/14 and I work two jobs.
I started my running journey years ago...as a relief from depression that took over my life-I decided to trade my medications in for miles.
And so I run.
I have ran several half marathons, as well as 2 full marathons, and my journey isn't over. Although depression likes to rear it's ugly head from time to time, I continue to "Keep Movin'" and keep running for my sanity.
Running makes me a better person, Mom, coworker, wife, and friend.
My story is simple, yet complex in so many ways resulting in very few words to describe it.
I run, on top of it all, for ME. It's MY place. And as a result, I can achieve anything life gives me.
My page, Movin' it with Michelle, has brought me so much joy...
I don't sell anything, other than real life.
Michelle
KEEP MOVIN' MICHELLE!
Michelle says:
So here I am, a Mom of 2 girls, ages 7/14 and I work two jobs.
I started my running journey years ago...as a relief from depression that took over my life-I decided to trade my medications in for miles.
And so I run.
I have ran several half marathons, as well as 2 full marathons, and my journey isn't over. Although depression likes to rear it's ugly head from time to time, I continue to "Keep Movin'" and keep running for my sanity.
Running makes me a better person, Mom, coworker, wife, and friend.
My story is simple, yet complex in so many ways resulting in very few words to describe it.
I run, on top of it all, for ME. It's MY place. And as a result, I can achieve anything life gives me.
My page, Movin' it with Michelle, has brought me so much joy...
I don't sell anything, other than real life.
Michelle
KEEP MOVIN' MICHELLE!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 10/19/2013
A mommy that is sharing her journey in taking charge of her life and following her dreams.
Michelle writes:
Once upon a time, a girl named Michelle woke up one day and thought to herself, it’s time to make a change - and she did. Coming off the most challenging year of her life in 2012, she knew 2013 HAD to be better. She read about an upcoming audition for Les Mis and knew she would do whatever she could do get her dream role Fantine - and she did. It had also always been a dream of hers to run in a race and so she got a hand-me-down treadmill and started to run. In the beginning, the running was hard - she could barely run two miles with out stopping to walk. But each time she got on the treadmill, she grew stronger and eventually would reach new milestones - three miles without walking, four miles, and the first 10K. The number on the scale and on the tags of her clothes started high - but little by little, day by day, they went down, down, down until what on earth was this? 45 pounds lighter, buying clothes in sizes she didn’t even wear in high school. More importantly, she found herself again. Yes, being a stay-at-home mom to twins often means very little “mommy/me” time - but that was just another excuse. Running 3-4 times/week for 30-60 minutes at a time is asking very little. She felt energized, happier and more spiritually at peace. Michelle even accomplished her bucket-list goal of completing a race - she ran her first 10K at Disneyland in August. Now she is happily maintaining her weight, continuing to run and is in training for her first half marathon in 2014. Her identical twin daughters inspire her every day, and she can’t help but feel incredibly emotional, tearful and proud when they drive by someone running on the street and her daughters say, “Mommy, look! A runner! Just like you!”
Be positive, be happy, be thankful, have faith, set goals, and go for it… Blessings and Run on!
Thank you to Michelle for sharing her story and her positive vibes with us! Love her words - RUN ON
Michelle writes:
Once upon a time, a girl named Michelle woke up one day and thought to herself, it’s time to make a change - and she did. Coming off the most challenging year of her life in 2012, she knew 2013 HAD to be better. She read about an upcoming audition for Les Mis and knew she would do whatever she could do get her dream role Fantine - and she did. It had also always been a dream of hers to run in a race and so she got a hand-me-down treadmill and started to run. In the beginning, the running was hard - she could barely run two miles with out stopping to walk. But each time she got on the treadmill, she grew stronger and eventually would reach new milestones - three miles without walking, four miles, and the first 10K. The number on the scale and on the tags of her clothes started high - but little by little, day by day, they went down, down, down until what on earth was this? 45 pounds lighter, buying clothes in sizes she didn’t even wear in high school. More importantly, she found herself again. Yes, being a stay-at-home mom to twins often means very little “mommy/me” time - but that was just another excuse. Running 3-4 times/week for 30-60 minutes at a time is asking very little. She felt energized, happier and more spiritually at peace. Michelle even accomplished her bucket-list goal of completing a race - she ran her first 10K at Disneyland in August. Now she is happily maintaining her weight, continuing to run and is in training for her first half marathon in 2014. Her identical twin daughters inspire her every day, and she can’t help but feel incredibly emotional, tearful and proud when they drive by someone running on the street and her daughters say, “Mommy, look! A runner! Just like you!”
Be positive, be happy, be thankful, have faith, set goals, and go for it… Blessings and Run on!
Thank you to Michelle for sharing her story and her positive vibes with us! Love her words - RUN ON
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 10/12/2013
The great Kim from Running on the Fly. Go on over and give her a like, she rocks and just completed her first full!!
Kim states: Wife. Mother of three. Runner. Not super fast, but definitely not slow. I have not won many races, but I have crossed every finish line. I have done 15 halfs (with two more scheduled in October) and just completed my first full marathon. I have been a serious runner since 2005, and ran my first long-distance event (a 20K) in 2008 and haven’t looked back. I love running, but I find it even more rewarding watching and helping others become runners as well. My blog is Kimrunsonthefly.blogspot.c
GO KIM!!!
_______________________________________________________________________________Kim states: Wife. Mother of three. Runner. Not super fast, but definitely not slow. I have not won many races, but I have crossed every finish line. I have done 15 halfs (with two more scheduled in October) and just completed my first full marathon. I have been a serious runner since 2005, and ran my first long-distance event (a 20K) in 2008 and haven’t looked back. I love running, but I find it even more rewarding watching and helping others become runners as well. My blog is Kimrunsonthefly.blogspot.c
GO KIM!!!
MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 10/05/2013
This Mommyathlon Motivator is a woman that is testament to the fact that we can do whatever we work towards to. She is amazing! Go on over to Get Fit With La and give her a like and follow her journey - it's a long one as she is tackling ultra marathons and a 100 miler - yes, no mistake, 1 0 0 m i l e s!!!!
The amazing Leigh Anne states:
First and foremost I am a Mom to 4 children ages 9,7,5,3. THEN I am an ultra marathoner who trains daily. I love to hike, trail run and I LOVE IPA BEERS!! ( perfect carb load for an ultra runner) I also own my own business and coach clients one on one in cross training, running and in health/llifestyle changes.
You can follow me, my journey and ultra training on Facebook at www.facebook.com/
My journey to loose weight started in 2003. I was 238lb and 5'7 and miserable to say the least. I lost weight and started a family and over the past 10 years I have gone up and down in weight as I started a family. Finally in Spring of 2011 after we had our last child and a major lifestyle change as we moved across the country for my husbands job I decided it was time to take care of me and loose the weight for good. I started running, cross training religiously with Beachbody programs and lost all my weight. I'm now at a healthy maintable weight and pursuing my dream of being an ultra marathoner. You can follow my full journey by watching this YouTube video:http://youtu.be/
— with Leigh Anne Guveiyian.
MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 09/28/2013
Meet Jenica from This Mom is Losing It. Follow her journey of 100+lb weight loss! Yes, over 100 lbs!! She is amazing. Go give her a like and show her some support.
Jenica states:
I'm Jenica, stay at home mom of 2, ages 4 and 2.5. In March of 2011, I had my ah-ha moment at 305 lbs. I was playing around with my daughter (then almost 2 yrs) while my newborn son took a nap. I decided to pretend like I was sleeping. She came up to me, and began to try to wake me up. I continued to pretend to be asleep. She again tried to wake me, and when I didn't respond, she began to cry.
That moment changed everything. I am a stay-at-home mom and all I could think was, "What if something really happened to me while I was home alone with them? This is how she would react. This is how scared she would be." I was an almost 28 year old with high blood pressure, PCOS, insulin resistence, and already showing signs of sleep apnea. That was my ah-ha moment.
Since then, I've lost 117lbs without diet pills, a trainer, gym membership, nutritionist, surgery, or any medical intervention of any kind. I started making small changes at a time and for most of my journey, simply pushed my kids in the stroller. I am a prime example of the notion that ANYONE can do this. It takes hard work and a willing spirit, but it CAN be done!
I'm now (about 2.5 years after starting my journey) training for my first half marathon!
You can find out more about my journey atwww.facebook.com/
Much to you Jenica. Thank you for sharing and inspiring!
_________________________________________________________________________________Jenica states:
I'm Jenica, stay at home mom of 2, ages 4 and 2.5. In March of 2011, I had my ah-ha moment at 305 lbs. I was playing around with my daughter (then almost 2 yrs) while my newborn son took a nap. I decided to pretend like I was sleeping. She came up to me, and began to try to wake me up. I continued to pretend to be asleep. She again tried to wake me, and when I didn't respond, she began to cry.
That moment changed everything. I am a stay-at-home mom and all I could think was, "What if something really happened to me while I was home alone with them? This is how she would react. This is how scared she would be." I was an almost 28 year old with high blood pressure, PCOS, insulin resistence, and already showing signs of sleep apnea. That was my ah-ha moment.
Since then, I've lost 117lbs without diet pills, a trainer, gym membership, nutritionist, surgery, or any medical intervention of any kind. I started making small changes at a time and for most of my journey, simply pushed my kids in the stroller. I am a prime example of the notion that ANYONE can do this. It takes hard work and a willing spirit, but it CAN be done!
I'm now (about 2.5 years after starting my journey) training for my first half marathon!
You can find out more about my journey atwww.facebook.com/
Much to you Jenica. Thank you for sharing and inspiring!
MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 09/21/2013
The awesome Michelle fromThis Momma Runs. Love her name, hehehehe (for those that don't know, we share the same name). Go on over and give her a like for being this week's motivator and showing it can be done as long as you set your mind to do it!
Michelle states:
The 'before pic' in this collage is 7 months after I had my fourth daughter...I couldn't drop the baby weight!! I started running in June of 2012 (after I had taken nearly 20 years off from running) and have lost 35 pounds...I have raced eleven 5ks since then, four half marathons (5th one this upcoming weekend), and I'm training for the Chicago Marathon this October...I work full time, I'm married to an awesome man I corrupted into running (we're running the marathon together!) I have four daughters age 8 and under . Most of my runs happen after 9pm at night so I don't interfere with my daughter's schedules...there is always time for running if you make time for it!
Michelle states:
The 'before pic' in this collage is 7 months after I had my fourth daughter...I couldn't drop the baby weight!! I started running in June of 2012 (after I had taken nearly 20 years off from running) and have lost 35 pounds...I have raced eleven 5ks since then, four half marathons (5th one this upcoming weekend), and I'm training for the Chicago Marathon this October...I work full time, I'm married to an awesome man I corrupted into running (we're running the marathon together!) I have four daughters age 8 and under . Most of my runs happen after 9pm at night so I don't interfere with my daughter's schedules...there is always time for running if you make time for it!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 09/14/2013
Meet Kristy from Definition Transformation - love her page! Go on over and give her a like!
Kristy states:
I'm a 33-year-old Mom to four incredibly awesome children ages 10-1/2, 9-1/2, 6 and 2 as well as 3 angels with the Lord. After spending more than a decade battling Ovarian and Cervical cancer, all of my pregnancies consisting of 5-6 months of complete bedrest and just plain losing me in this crazy thing we call life, I woke up one day and said enough was enough. I wanted ME back...whatever that meant. My journey has evolved as I wander down it's path and I'm so thankful for every step. I've lost weight, I've begun eating clean, gone off every medication I was on and, most importantly, gotten a glimpse of the ME I have always known was in my heart. I share my journey of transforming the definition of who I am and what I want to be on my page, Definition Transformation, and LOVE the inspiration, encouragement and motivation we share there. After numerous stress fractures derailed my running, I'm back to it and participating in my first 5k since in October! Can't wait!! Most significantly, my journey has me providing a positive, healthy and self-confident Mother and Wife to my family.
Kudos to Kristy!
Kristy states:
I'm a 33-year-old Mom to four incredibly awesome children ages 10-1/2, 9-1/2, 6 and 2 as well as 3 angels with the Lord. After spending more than a decade battling Ovarian and Cervical cancer, all of my pregnancies consisting of 5-6 months of complete bedrest and just plain losing me in this crazy thing we call life, I woke up one day and said enough was enough. I wanted ME back...whatever that meant. My journey has evolved as I wander down it's path and I'm so thankful for every step. I've lost weight, I've begun eating clean, gone off every medication I was on and, most importantly, gotten a glimpse of the ME I have always known was in my heart. I share my journey of transforming the definition of who I am and what I want to be on my page, Definition Transformation, and LOVE the inspiration, encouragement and motivation we share there. After numerous stress fractures derailed my running, I'm back to it and participating in my first 5k since in October! Can't wait!! Most significantly, my journey has me providing a positive, healthy and self-confident Mother and Wife to my family.
Kudos to Kristy!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 09/07/2013
Have you heard of Run Nerds Rock? If you haven't, go give them a big Mommyathlon "like". They have great stuff and are very supportive. My friend Michael runs it. Now it's time to meet Melissa, his wife and this week's ultra marathon Mommyathlon! Check her out (in the pic) in her first marathon Nov. 2012.
Melissa states: "Little did I know how much my life would change when I started running in March 2010. I wanted to be healthy and be there to see my 3 girls grow up. I was 30# overweight and miserable. My mom had passed away at age 39 when I was only 16 from a 4 year battle with breast cancer. I was turning 35 and the same age mom was when she was diagnosed, and knew I had to do something. I started with a C25K program and ran my first 5k 7/4/2010. My goal that race was to finish without walking, which I did. Then in 2011, I ran some 5ks and 2 half marathons. Something just started to click. I wanted to see what I could do! 2012 was the "Year of 7s!" I turned 37 and I completed 7 halfs that year. My first full marathon was in November, and I dedicated that race to my friend,Dan, who was battling melanoma. I felt unstoppable! 2013 has been awesome! I went from working part-time to full-time as an office RN in April. Running now takes lots of planning but somehow I just completed my first ultra-a 50k! I am currently training for 2 more fulls this fall. I'm happier and healthier than I have ever been, down over 30#s too! My husband and I now plan "running vacations!" I've met some pretty amazing running friends and can't wait to see what 2014 brings-maybe a 50 mile Ultra??
Melissa states: "Little did I know how much my life would change when I started running in March 2010. I wanted to be healthy and be there to see my 3 girls grow up. I was 30# overweight and miserable. My mom had passed away at age 39 when I was only 16 from a 4 year battle with breast cancer. I was turning 35 and the same age mom was when she was diagnosed, and knew I had to do something. I started with a C25K program and ran my first 5k 7/4/2010. My goal that race was to finish without walking, which I did. Then in 2011, I ran some 5ks and 2 half marathons. Something just started to click. I wanted to see what I could do! 2012 was the "Year of 7s!" I turned 37 and I completed 7 halfs that year. My first full marathon was in November, and I dedicated that race to my friend,Dan, who was battling melanoma. I felt unstoppable! 2013 has been awesome! I went from working part-time to full-time as an office RN in April. Running now takes lots of planning but somehow I just completed my first ultra-a 50k! I am currently training for 2 more fulls this fall. I'm happier and healthier than I have ever been, down over 30#s too! My husband and I now plan "running vacations!" I've met some pretty amazing running friends and can't wait to see what 2014 brings-maybe a 50 mile Ultra??
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 08/31/2013
Check out the awesomeCrazy Mama Runner. Go on over and give her a Mommyathlon "like". Here's is her awesome story and her journey to a weight loss of +100 lbs!
Crazy Mama Runner states: I started running back in college, where after overcoming an eating I gained more than my fair share of college weight. I tipped the scales at over 230 pounds and was disgusted withmyself. But it didn't last long. I let my brain come up with a billion excuses as to why running wasn't for me. Then I got married and made sure to lose about 80 pounds in order to be more myself as a bride. Then infertility struck and I put weight back on. We finally were blessed with a baby and after my princess pie was born I dropped weight like crazy. Good old breast feeding I guess. I was happy yet I was anxious. I had a severe case of postpartum anxiety and had a hard time keeping panic attacks at bay. In the middle of this baby#2s trying to conceive journey started. The fact I was struggling with infertility again led me into a very dark hole. It was then 8 months into doctor appoints, shots, probing and timing everything that I started running with some moms in my neighborhood. We went out late at night in the dark in the humidity. After our mom chores were done for the day. We started out small more walking than running but we eventually were able to run the entire two mile loop. Then we started 5k training. We signed up and we ran THE WHOLE THING! I was sticking with running because it was my therapy. It let me run away from all the infertility crap and it gave me a feeling of control over something. 14 months into tryin to conceive I made a bold move, I signed up for a local road race series. Having never run more than 3 miles I was signed up to run 4 5ks and 2 10ks. It freed me. A week before the first race I discovered I was actually pregnant!!!! After talking with doctors I took the races on slow but steady and finished my series. The last race being 34 weeks pregnant with my son. I EARNED the running jacket with every fiber of my body. After my little mister was born I took up running again. With a half in my sights. Last fall I ran that half. The whole thing! But it wasn't until this past January that I started calling myself a runner. I laced up and headed out into a snow storm. Not because I was training, not to workout I had already done that for the day. But just because. As the snow pelted my face and my feet fought through the unplowed sidewalks I found a sense of peace joy and ME. I was strong I am strong and I can overcome anything. I am a RUNNER.
Now I am 103 pounds lighter, but more than the numbers on the scale or the miles recorded I am ME. I am healthy fit and showing my kids through example what healthy is. I love motivating, encouraging and inspiring others. Nothing makes me more proud to see my kids copying mommy in the good ways. I love getting messages from friends and followers of my Crazy Mama Runner page that thanks me for the inspiration. We can all be our best. It's not about numbers, pace, appearance. It's about just being us and loving what we see for nobody but us!
Crazy Mama Runner states: I started running back in college, where after overcoming an eating I gained more than my fair share of college weight. I tipped the scales at over 230 pounds and was disgusted withmyself. But it didn't last long. I let my brain come up with a billion excuses as to why running wasn't for me. Then I got married and made sure to lose about 80 pounds in order to be more myself as a bride. Then infertility struck and I put weight back on. We finally were blessed with a baby and after my princess pie was born I dropped weight like crazy. Good old breast feeding I guess. I was happy yet I was anxious. I had a severe case of postpartum anxiety and had a hard time keeping panic attacks at bay. In the middle of this baby#2s trying to conceive journey started. The fact I was struggling with infertility again led me into a very dark hole. It was then 8 months into doctor appoints, shots, probing and timing everything that I started running with some moms in my neighborhood. We went out late at night in the dark in the humidity. After our mom chores were done for the day. We started out small more walking than running but we eventually were able to run the entire two mile loop. Then we started 5k training. We signed up and we ran THE WHOLE THING! I was sticking with running because it was my therapy. It let me run away from all the infertility crap and it gave me a feeling of control over something. 14 months into tryin to conceive I made a bold move, I signed up for a local road race series. Having never run more than 3 miles I was signed up to run 4 5ks and 2 10ks. It freed me. A week before the first race I discovered I was actually pregnant!!!! After talking with doctors I took the races on slow but steady and finished my series. The last race being 34 weeks pregnant with my son. I EARNED the running jacket with every fiber of my body. After my little mister was born I took up running again. With a half in my sights. Last fall I ran that half. The whole thing! But it wasn't until this past January that I started calling myself a runner. I laced up and headed out into a snow storm. Not because I was training, not to workout I had already done that for the day. But just because. As the snow pelted my face and my feet fought through the unplowed sidewalks I found a sense of peace joy and ME. I was strong I am strong and I can overcome anything. I am a RUNNER.
Now I am 103 pounds lighter, but more than the numbers on the scale or the miles recorded I am ME. I am healthy fit and showing my kids through example what healthy is. I love motivating, encouraging and inspiring others. Nothing makes me more proud to see my kids copying mommy in the good ways. I love getting messages from friends and followers of my Crazy Mama Runner page that thanks me for the inspiration. We can all be our best. It's not about numbers, pace, appearance. It's about just being us and loving what we see for nobody but us!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 08/24/2013
Jenny states: A little bit about me! I am a wife and a mother of a 3 year old little boy and a 5 year old little girl. I work as an ER nurse at a local hospital. This picture shows me at my daughter's 1st birthday. I was way overweight, miserable and my self esteem was nonexistent. I stayed that weight through both of my babies. After about 4 years, I finally won my weight loss battle and lost a significant amount of weight. I lost 35 pounds last year. I have received many more benefits other than just shrinking in size! My health has greatly benefited from my weight loss too! One week after delivering my son I was admitted back to the hospital with high blood pressure. My BP was 200/117 upon arriving in the ER. I spent a couple of days there and was discharged home (at age 29) to take 2 blood pressure meds and one diuretic (fluid pill) per day. Unable to keep my BP under control without them, I took those pills for almost 2 years. Since starting my weight loss journey and losing 35 lbs I have since been able to get off of both of my blood pressure medicines and am working on getting rid of the diuretic. I also started running and it has literally changed my life. Through running I have learned that I am much stronger than I ever thought. My confidence level has gone through the roof. I also now have an outlet to do something for myself, which I never did before. I have ran multiple 5 & 10k's, 2 half marathons and am currently training for my first full marathon in December. There is so much to be said for the rewards that you get by taking care of yourself.
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 08/17/2013
My absolute favorite thing to post is the weekly Mommyathlon Motivator. This is a special Mommyathlon. She makes me feel that moving forward is the only way to go in life, no matter what challenge you face. Meet the very special Julianne, the lady behind Running From MS. Go on over and give her page a "like" and show her your support and love. You can get some more info from her website as well @ http://
Julianne writes: I am a mom, runner, cake addict, animal lover, engineer, football fanatic, and now I am also living with MS. I was diagnosed in March 2013.
I started running in my early 20s. As a kid, I had watched my dad run 5ks on most weekends. Our family vacations sometimes centered on a marathon or ultra-marathon that he was running. In an effort to lose weight / become healthier, I decided to chase that runner’s high he had often talked about.
I have “started over” more times than I can remember. I’ve had several knee injuries that sidelined me for weeks at a time. My asthma also got in the way of my running at times. After a pretty awful knee surgery, I decided to retire my running shoes for good. But alas, I am a runner, and I just couldn’t do it. A few more attempts and a stint with a really great Physical Therapist showed me I could still run. And then came the MS diagnosis. Suddenly injuries and asthma seemed insignificant.
Everywhere I looked for information on MS led down a depressing road. Was I destined to be wheelchair bound and never run again? I refuse to let that happen. I will not let MS be the thing that runs my life. I will use this disease as my motivation to work harder and do better to compensate for what it has taken from me. I am “Running From MS”. I am running to stay healthy, so that my body can better fight the effects of the disease. I am running to clear my mind when the nasty thoughts from the disease try to seep in. I am running to stay in control of my life. MS makes me feel bad, but running makes me feel good. Simple as that.
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 08/09/2013
Meet Charity - a Mommyathlon that's doing it all with baby on board!! BIG KUDOS to her for showing us even while pregnant, we can chose to exercise and be healthy!
Charity states: My name is Charity and I'm a 31 year old mother of 2 boys (2 and 12), a wife, and a full time student majoring in psychology with a special emphasis in child development and a minor in science. In my spare time (that's an oxymoron lol) I love to run, spin, and lift weights. I was always teeny tiny until I had my first child followed by postpartum depression. I had not been active and had horrible eating habits so I just yo yo'd with my weight. I lost some weight prior to my wedding but after losing our son at almost 19 weeks pregnant, I started emotionally eating and gained 19 lbs with my next pregnancy. When he was 5 months old I decided I wanted to be able to run around with my kids and I was incapable of doing so due to my weight/health. In July 2011, I started doing Jillian Michaels DVDs at home and then signed up for the gym. I started out with the elliptical because the treadmill is too boring to me and I quickly lost interest. I decided to try out some classes like spin and some with weights and cardio intervals. I quickly became hooked! In March 2012 I ran my first 5K in 38 minutes. I hadn't been training and was shocked I could actually run most of it! I'd always wanted to be a runner so I decided to start training for that. By September of that year I could run 13.1 miles and in November, I did the Spartan Beast which was 14 miles of mud running, hill climbing, and 25 obstacles like rope climbs, climbing under barb wire, scaling 8 ft fences, and other fun things lol! I signed up for my first marathon in March 2013 but 10 days prior to it I found out I was pregnant. That is on hold for now but I will start training for it as soon as I give birth. Ok so maybe I’ll wait a few weeks but you know, as soon as I can! I've always had a personality that's "go big or go home," and I've found it helps push me in my workouts. Distance running also helped me mentally in realizing that I had never realized my full potential in all areas of my life. I only have one life and I choose to LIVE IT!! Prior to finding out I am pregnant, I had gotten in my training runs up to 23 miles. I am now about to start my 3rd trimester with our baby girl!! On my bucket list for next year is a marathon, the spartan beast again so I can PR, and a duathlon. I still spin, lift weights, and run but I haven't been distance running since becoming pregnant due to doctors orders. I am thrilled to meet all of you and enjoy reading about all of your active lifestyles and accomplishments. One of my favorite sayings is, "Obsessed is what the lazy call the dedicated.".
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 08/03/2013
Say hello to this week's Mommyathlon Motivator - Chrissy. Chrissy is a SUPER MOMmyathlon! She finds time to work, raise three beautiful daughters, race marathons and triathlons along with other multi- day relays. Here she is with her eldest daughter at a triathlon last yr where they both placed first in their categories. Chrissy is proof that a Mommyathlon can do it all and still find time to be healthy. WAY TO GO!!!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 07/27/2013
Meet Kylynn - an ULTRA MOMMYATHLON! She just completed her first ultra race last week-end. MEGA CONGRATS! Head on over to her page Ultra Marathon Mom and give her a big ol' Mommyathlon "like".
Kylynn states:
My name is KyLynn and I'm 25 years old. I wear many many hats since I am a wife, mother of 2 precious little girls ages 5 and 3, middle school math teacher, full time grad student, and RUNNER! I was very athletic in high school but was focused only on basketball and not even the least bit interested in running. It wasn't until after I had my first child that I started running. I started only to lose the remaining baby weight and ended up falling in love with it. One of my good friends drug me through my first half marathon. It was torture! Soon after I found out we were expecting our second little bundle of joy and pretty much took a 5 month break from running. Right after our 2nd daughter was born I started running again and trained for my 2nd half marathon. Something clicked with this one and while I was in the middle of this race I wondered if I could run 26.2. Then I thought there was only one way to find out. So I talked my hubby (Chris) into joining me and we signed up for it. We trained together and that is amazing! I love having my best friend as my running partner. Long runs make for some awesome dates! I started my page Marathon Mom to help motivate me along the way. We finished the Little Rock Marathon (known for HUGE medals) on March 3, 2013. We fell in love with the longer distance. We then finished our second Marathon 8 weeks later at the end of April. After completing 2 full Marathons I realized I can do anything I set my mind to. So I signed up for an Ultra! It took me a few days to convince Chris that he could do this as well. Together, we finished our first 50k on July 21, 2013. It was an awesome experience. I learned a lot about myself that night. I can't wait to complete another Ultra. After finishing the 50K I changed my page name to "Ultra Marathon Mom", I feel that I earned this name and proud of it. Through my running journey I have reminded myself of the following verse "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me: Philippians4:13
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 07/20/2013
Check out her page at Momma in training and give her a Mommyathlon "like". She is a mom of four who trained and did her first half marathon. She originally started running to lose the baby weight - I can so relate to that!!! Thank you Jill for willing to share your journey - keep kicking asphalt!
Jill, she states:
"I started running when I turned 30 after never having ran in my life. I found myself in need of loosing 25-30 lbs and just tired of feeling yucky about myself all the time. So one day I started, and couldn't even run 1 lap. It took me 1 full month to run a mile and several months to get to 3 miles. And let me tell you when I ran 1 mile for the first time without walking i was so excited! Since then I have continued to run( with the exception of 1 pregancy and new baby) and run several days a week along with other forms of cross training several days a week. I am blessed with a awesome running/fitness partner and this last year we trained for and completed our 1st half marathon with a time of 2:09. Crossing that finish line was one of my greatest accomplishments! There is just nothing like pushing through when all you can think about is quitting! Hoping to start training again in the fall."
Jill, she states:
"I started running when I turned 30 after never having ran in my life. I found myself in need of loosing 25-30 lbs and just tired of feeling yucky about myself all the time. So one day I started, and couldn't even run 1 lap. It took me 1 full month to run a mile and several months to get to 3 miles. And let me tell you when I ran 1 mile for the first time without walking i was so excited! Since then I have continued to run( with the exception of 1 pregancy and new baby) and run several days a week along with other forms of cross training several days a week. I am blessed with a awesome running/fitness partner and this last year we trained for and completed our 1st half marathon with a time of 2:09. Crossing that finish line was one of my greatest accomplishments! There is just nothing like pushing through when all you can think about is quitting! Hoping to start training again in the fall."
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 07/13/2013
Have you all heard of Cross My Heart Fitness? If you haven't, go on over and give Jody a Mommyathlon "like" and hello! She is inspiring, amazing, fast and has the ability for expressing her faith through running. Beautiful. Thank you so much for being a part of my page and helping to inspire moms everywhere with your faith, dedication and RUNNING!!!
Here's a bit about her in her own words. Jody writes:
Here's a bit about her in her own words. Jody writes:
I got started as a personal trainer after having been athletic my entire life! Finally at age 41, I decided to start my own business to help other moms get healthy and fit. My mission was to teach them how to eat and respect their bodies as the temple the Lord had designed them to be. To be thankful for their bodies and nourish them with the cleanest and purest foods possible. This is how the Lord would have us treat our bodies. Also to exercise and to use our bodies in a way as to lengthen our time here on earth! My logo says it all: the heart is to teach heart health, since heart disease is the #1 killer for women, and the cross is for faith and treating our bodies as temples not a wasteland.
I have been training clients for 3 years and also started running marathon in 2009. I just completed the Boston Marathon on April 15, 2013 which was also my 10th full marathon. I love helping others get healthy, fit and learn to run! Coaching others to reach their goals is so rewarding!
My priorities are as follows:
God
Family
Training
God
Family
Training
A lot of my training, those long runs especially, is where I also am guided by my faith. I dedicate each mile to a different person and pray for them during their mile.
I know if I don't get my training in each day, I just don't feel right. I need my daily dose of endorphins to "run" smoothly as a wife and mother too!
I know if I don't get my training in each day, I just don't feel right. I need my daily dose of endorphins to "run" smoothly as a wife and mother too!
I have had to make a conscious effort each day to add in my marathon training. I work it around my family priorities. But I always find a way to fit it in. Thankfully, I have a very supportive husband, otherwise I wouldn't be able to do it. I also schedule my clients (personal training) around my kids schedules. I make a schedule every week and fit it in.
I think you need to keep your family and God first, then you can schedule your fitness. When the kids nap, you can put in an exercise video. I used to workout every morning before my little kids got up. Now since they are older, I can fit it in more often. Once you start seeing results, you won't want to quit and you will make your exercise and food prep a priority and a habit.
You have to remember, you are modeling behavior of your kids. If you want them to grow up and be healthy and fit, then you must model that for them. Include the kids in grocery trips, teaching them how to shop for produce and not just processed foods. Share the meal prep with the kids, have them wash up the veggies and put them in baggies or containers. Kids love to help mom in the kitchen! Make them workout out with you or go to the park and jog around and kick the soccer ball with the kids. It can be a family affair!
You have to remember, you are modeling behavior of your kids. If you want them to grow up and be healthy and fit, then you must model that for them. Include the kids in grocery trips, teaching them how to shop for produce and not just processed foods. Share the meal prep with the kids, have them wash up the veggies and put them in baggies or containers. Kids love to help mom in the kitchen! Make them workout out with you or go to the park and jog around and kick the soccer ball with the kids. It can be a family affair!
For mom's that say they don't have time, then they need to look at where they are spending their time. If they have time to watch their favorite TV Show or spend hours on Facebook, then they can carve out just 20 minutes a day to exercise. you find a way to do the things you love and you should love yourself enough to be healthy and fit and happy!
You will naturally have more energy once you start exercising and eating right. Getting plenty of rest each night and lots of water do wonders for the body. You actually will feel better, have more energy then you do just sitting around all day. Get up and get the body moving. You can do this, Believe in yourself and love yourself! You deserve it!
One way to start is by giving up one unhealthy food: soda! if you can cut he sugary beverages, then you are on your way to kicking the sugar habit all together. You will be shocked to see how much energy you have once you give it up. Remember to start out slowly, so you can manage it. Then continue to cut out other processed foods until you find yourself no longer craving them. You crave what you eat, so if you start eating more healthy foods, you will start to crave them!
One way to start is by giving up one unhealthy food: soda! if you can cut he sugary beverages, then you are on your way to kicking the sugar habit all together. You will be shocked to see how much energy you have once you give it up. Remember to start out slowly, so you can manage it. Then continue to cut out other processed foods until you find yourself no longer craving them. You crave what you eat, so if you start eating more healthy foods, you will start to crave them!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 07/06/2013
A very special woman, the force behind Heads Up Bands (she chose to keep her name private). I recently wrote a post on the Mommyathlon blog about these great head bands. Today we hear from her as she shows us how to turn something difficult into something beautiful. Our thanks to her. Show her your Mommyathlon support by visiting her page and giving her a Mommyathlon "like".
She writes:
When I was asked to be a Mommyathlon Motivator, I said really? Me? I don’t think I have done anything special or inspiring. I have met so many wonderful people who show grace and dignity during difficult times and rise up to meet whatever challenge is laid out before them; they are the ones who inspire. People who donate their time, money and efforts to important causes are the ones who inspire. But me?
Yes, I am a breast cancer survivor and I am thankful for each and every day. I am thankful for all of the people in my life, those who I have the privilege to call friends as well as those I simply nod, smile and say hello to on the running path or in the grocery store. I always thought that I was someone who did “pay it forward;” who worked hard to help others. But when I was diagnosed and joined the “club” that no one wants to be a member of, the love, support, friendship and encouragement that I received showed me what “paying it forward” was truly all about. My family and friends sustained me during some very difficult and dark days. When I was able to come up for air and breathe again I knew that I would somehow try and make a difference and follow the example that they have given to me. Truly pay it forward.
Out of pure necessity to control my totally unruly and curly hair I made a headband and then another and another. Needing to keep my hands busy and my mind occupied, my friend and I decided to give it a try. Not knowing what would happen or how it would grow. When we realized that we actually had a business we knew that it would be about more than just headbands. It would be about giving back, helping out and “paying it forward”. Our headbands won’t make you run faster, jump higher or win every race. What they will do is make you feel pretty, make you feel comfortable and do the job they are intended to do which is keep your hair in control and out of your face…when you have no hair and you don’t feel comfortable in your own body, it’s a small thing to put on and feel pretty!
I have had awesome mentors on this journey. I appreciate and I am humbled by the kindness in others that I have had the pleasure to work with, and if my story can help someone else through some hard times, then I am grateful.
There are two words that we lived by in my home during my treatment and they have carried on into our everyday lives; temporary and forward. Everything in life is temporary; joy, sorrow, pain, fear and you have to keep moving forward. You cannot go around something; you have to go through it, always moving forward.
I believe that Healthy=Strong=Beautiful! It’s a way of life! I always try to make today better then yesterday and know that is not as good as tomorrow might be.
No matter what happens in your world, remember that it is temporary and you have to keep moving forward and keep your Head Up! That is why we choose the name Heads Up Bands!
She writes:
When I was asked to be a Mommyathlon Motivator, I said really? Me? I don’t think I have done anything special or inspiring. I have met so many wonderful people who show grace and dignity during difficult times and rise up to meet whatever challenge is laid out before them; they are the ones who inspire. People who donate their time, money and efforts to important causes are the ones who inspire. But me?
Yes, I am a breast cancer survivor and I am thankful for each and every day. I am thankful for all of the people in my life, those who I have the privilege to call friends as well as those I simply nod, smile and say hello to on the running path or in the grocery store. I always thought that I was someone who did “pay it forward;” who worked hard to help others. But when I was diagnosed and joined the “club” that no one wants to be a member of, the love, support, friendship and encouragement that I received showed me what “paying it forward” was truly all about. My family and friends sustained me during some very difficult and dark days. When I was able to come up for air and breathe again I knew that I would somehow try and make a difference and follow the example that they have given to me. Truly pay it forward.
Out of pure necessity to control my totally unruly and curly hair I made a headband and then another and another. Needing to keep my hands busy and my mind occupied, my friend and I decided to give it a try. Not knowing what would happen or how it would grow. When we realized that we actually had a business we knew that it would be about more than just headbands. It would be about giving back, helping out and “paying it forward”. Our headbands won’t make you run faster, jump higher or win every race. What they will do is make you feel pretty, make you feel comfortable and do the job they are intended to do which is keep your hair in control and out of your face…when you have no hair and you don’t feel comfortable in your own body, it’s a small thing to put on and feel pretty!
I have had awesome mentors on this journey. I appreciate and I am humbled by the kindness in others that I have had the pleasure to work with, and if my story can help someone else through some hard times, then I am grateful.
There are two words that we lived by in my home during my treatment and they have carried on into our everyday lives; temporary and forward. Everything in life is temporary; joy, sorrow, pain, fear and you have to keep moving forward. You cannot go around something; you have to go through it, always moving forward.
I believe that Healthy=Strong=Beautiful! It’s a way of life! I always try to make today better then yesterday and know that is not as good as tomorrow might be.
No matter what happens in your world, remember that it is temporary and you have to keep moving forward and keep your Head Up! That is why we choose the name Heads Up Bands!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 06/29/2013
Yes, this Mommyathlon runs with baby on board!!
Missy states: I've been running for seven years. Running has seen me through graduating college, getting married, buying our first house, and having our first child. Now I'm 6 months pregnant with our second baby and still getting out for my much needed runs. Like most moms, running has become my "me" time and sanity! Running while pregnant has changed me as a runner, I've learned to slow down and listen to my body and I'm much better about hydration! I'm glad I'm healthy enough to continue my therapy
Thank you so much Missy for showing all Mommyathlons that you can be pregnant and maintain a healthy lifestyle! You are such a symbol of what Mommyathlons are!
Missy states: I've been running for seven years. Running has seen me through graduating college, getting married, buying our first house, and having our first child. Now I'm 6 months pregnant with our second baby and still getting out for my much needed runs. Like most moms, running has become my "me" time and sanity! Running while pregnant has changed me as a runner, I've learned to slow down and listen to my body and I'm much better about hydration! I'm glad I'm healthy enough to continue my therapy
Thank you so much Missy for showing all Mommyathlons that you can be pregnant and maintain a healthy lifestyle! You are such a symbol of what Mommyathlons are!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 06/22/2013
Meet Kim, the mega force behind Barking Mad About Running. If you haven't heard of her, go on over and give her a "like" to show your support. Kim has raised over $15K for cancer support - MAJOR KUDOS KIM!!!
Here is her story:
My name is Kim, and I have been running for almost 2 years. That year, I had been training to walk Susan G Komen's 3 Day for the Cure, 60 miles in 3 days! It would have been my second walk. My running partner and I, well I guess we "broke up" and I just couldn't go to the event with her after they way we parted. I had raised so much money, and I wanted to represent Komen, so I started the Couch to 5K program so that I could run the Race for the Cure for the second time. I was overweight, miserable, and terribly out of shape. It took me 37 minutes to finish, and my husband was sweet enough to run it with me.
After that I decided to train for my first Half Marathon. I would run it in the Fall, and once again I would raise money for Komen, this time for their Marathon for the Cure program. Somehow, a friend convinced me to run a Half with her in the Spring. I ran that Half for a local organization, the Cancer Concern Center. I. Was. Hooked. By the end of 2012 I had run four Half Marathons and had signed up to run the Disney Marathon. I had also lost almost 25 pounds. When I ran my most recent Race for the Cure, I knocked almost 6 minutes off of that last time!
So far this year, I have run the Disney Marathon, 7 Half Marathons (one of them for Komen, one for the Cancer Concern Center), and I will run 6 more Halfs for a total of 13 in 2013. I also booked WDW's Dopey (48.6 miles in 4 days. Yeah, I am that crazy). Like I said, I am hooked! I have made amazing friends, blogged like crazy, and gotten so much healthier. What started out as (seemingly) the most devastating of losses turned out to be such an amazing step for me. I hadn't realized how unhappy that person had made me until I walked away. She is an amazing person, she and I just aren't meant to be friends.
I have gotten my kids involved as well. My teenie and I just hosted a Virtual Race together to benefit Relay For Life, and she likes ti run or bike with me for other Virtual Races. My boy likes to scooter and skate, but he also did the Color Run with me and hopes to do a mud run with me, now that he is finally old enough!
Over the last 3 years I have raised almost $15,000 for Cancer Research! My current fundraiser is a Virtual Race, which you can check out at my Facebook Page, Barking Mad About Running. It is pinned to the top!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 06/15/2013
Ever heard of Pride Puddles? Well, if you haven't, meet the amazing and beautiful Nancy behind the page and throw a "like" her way to support her journey!! She began her journey pregnant and committed to it. Once her beautiful daughter was born, she kept true to her word and started her way success! Thank you Nancy for sharing!
Nancy states:
My name is Nancy and I am 32, a wife and mother of two precious girls, ages 4 and 2. I am a certified Spinning Instructor and Personal Trainer. My dream is to do this full time but until that's possible I work full time as a Project Manager in the telecommunications industry.
I decided to start this page as I was getting many questions on how I was able to change my lifestyle of that of a sedentary, negative Nelly to the fit and positive person I am now. I figured there might be a few other people out there looking for support, a few laughs and some company on their journey.
I was overweight my whole life. I tried many crazy diets of course, without success. When I was pregnant with my second daughter I knew I had to make a choice to get fit. 8 months pregnant, I walked into a a gym and signed up...they of course looked at me funny (I was huge and not just by being pregnant, I was close to 250lbs at the end of my pregnancy). I told them, I want the promotion price, put my membership on hold and when I am cleared from my doctor I will be back. True to my words, I was back 6 weeks after my daughter was born and started my journey to a healthier life.
That was 2 and a half years ago, I am 60lbs lighter, immensely stronger inside and out. There were times that I literally broke down and cried on the gym floor as I broke through physical and emotional barriers to uncover the person I am now - still a work in progress but I will be until I take my last breath.
I've learned and grown so much since I started my journey and I only hope I can help others the way others have helped me
You are worth it, don't ever forget it.
- Nancy
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 06/08/2013
MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK - Have you heard of Not Fast Just Fabulous? If you haven't, go on over and give the incredible Krissy a "like". Her story is one of strength and endurance and perseverance. Her story, her courage and determination yells "YOU CAN DO IT!!!" Thank you so much Krissy for sharing and for being such an amazing example of what a strong woman is capable of.
Here is her story in her words:
My name is Krissy and I am a Mommyathlon Motivator!
I have quite a story and I am really happy to be able to share it with you. My hope is that I reach everyone in the world to help motivate and inspire them to achieve their goals, whatever they may be, fitness or not.
If you would have told me 18 years ago when I was just turning 14, that everyone is here for a reason, or everyone has special talents and they need to figure out what they are then put them to use to become who we’re supposed to be, I would have simply thought you were nuts. (Run on sentence much?)
But, now that I am 32 I look at life much differently. It started around age 15. After a near death experience, having a stroke and brain surgery at the ripe age of 14, my life was literally forever changed. I lost my friends, I couldn't walk for 2 months, I had to learn my abc’s how to talk, numbers, how to write, how to go to the bathroom and even the simplest task like tying my shoes took 20 minutes. I slumbered into the deepest depression, honestly thinking about killing myself. Months of medication and therapy pulled me out. I came to the conclusion that I needed to turn this negative part of my life into a positive. From then on it was my destiny to teach others to stop taking their life and the things or people in it for granted and to love themselves for being who they are.
Fast forward 8 years. I am pregnant and 23 years old, I had another stroke. This time losing the entire use of my right side….forever. The bleed in my head stopped on its own, had it not they couldn't have done anything because the bleed was to close to the base of my neck. I would have bled to death. My daughter was removed C-Section and is now a thriving 8-year-old. Now with life challenging me again with more negatives, I once again turned it into a learning experience. It became my destiny to teach others to embrace people who are different and to see past any physical or mental issues.
Today, almost 9 years later my life has changed drastically.
I still can’t feel my entire right side. It’s a way of living and I hadn't figured that out until recently. I've coddled myself far to long with a cane, lots of medication for pain and depression.
Now onto the entire reason I decided to change my life forever. My daughter Lily.
She’s not just any average energetic 8 year old, she’s the size of a 12 year old and she’s a runner.
Last November Lily was in an after school program called Girls On The run. It’s a 10 week program where the coaches teach important life lessons and integrate the program with running. At the end of the program the Girls and their running buddies participate in a Nationally Known 5K (Girls On The Run 5K). This program is amazing on so many different levels.
Well, last season, Lily’s running buddy had to be a coach because I wasn't in any way shape or form able to run with all my medical issues and pain.
Deep down it was really hurtful to think I couldn't do this one thing that meant so much to my daughter.
That’s when it started, November 29th, 2012 at 9:37. I dropped the cane. I stepped out of the front door and started running. I had no idea where I was going or what I was doing, but there was NO way I’d miss my daughters next season.
I ran 2 miles in 25 minutes, it wasn't the best, but it was something.
The next day I ran 2.13 in 27 minutes and from then I couldn't stop! I wanted to run every day!
The journey had begun!
It’s been 7 months since my first run. I have ran 4 5K races and recently my first 10k, which was LIFE CHANGING!
Turns out I was a runner all along.
Turns out I’m strong than I thought. I had it in me the whole time.
Turns out that ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!
When you reach an obstacle, turn it into an opportunity. You have the choice. You can overcome and be a winner, or you can allow it to overcome you and be a loser. The choice is yours and yours alone. Refuse to throw in the towel. Go that extra mile that failures refuse to travel. It is far better to be exhausted from success than to be rested from failure.
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 06/01/2013
We all know her from her facebook page called Junkie to Runner. Here is her story in her words. Thank you Christina, for sharing your story and for paving the road to recovery so that others can follow it and know that it can be done. You are one incredible Mommyathlon!!
Christina writes:
"My name is Christina, I am a recovering IV drug addict. I was addicted to methamphetamine for 10 years. I lost everything to the drug, it ruled my everyday life. My family was miserable and I was dying. So many negative things happened not only to me, but to everyone I loved because of the lifestyle I was living. I got clean and sober with help. With this sobriety came a massive weight gain,. Then I got pregnant and I was in the worst shape of my life, so very unhealthy. I was unable to carry my daughter to term, and she was born 11 weeks early at 1lb 4ozs. I had preeclampsia, it killed me to see her struggle and fight to live, all because my body failed her. I was 198lbs at 5’1 I was severely overweight. I had a c-section and the recovery from that was what made me aware of how sick I was. So I started to eat better and workout on an elliptical machine for 10 minutes. This was in December of 2011. I noticed the weight start to come off, and that my body was getting stronger. I got a treadmill, because in my heart I had always wanted to run. Walking never felt right, I wanted more speed and to push harder. So I started running. Not much at first, it was a min of running at a 4.5 pace followed by 2 minutes of walking at a 3.5 pace. I did this for months, eventually working up to 4 min runs, with less walking. Then one day I decided to try a mile, I did it. I was so overwhelmed with emotion that I collapsed on the floor in a puddle of tears. I had ran a mile. The miles just kept piling up, in June of 2012 I moved my running to the outdoors. I bought a jogging stroller so I could bring my miracle of a daughter with me. It was hard. I eventually got up to 5 mile runs 5 or 6 days a week. I was a runner. I have never looked back. This summer, I am running races. I did my first 5k mud run on May 18th it was amazing. Next mud run is in June. Then comes the real challenge of strength and endurance, a chance to see how far I have come and what I am made of. A half Marathon 13.1 miles. When I started this journey I just wanted to loose weight and be healthier, I never dreamed I would become a runner, who runs for fun. I have found so much of what I lost from my drug addiction in my achievements as runner. I have found my identity again. I have become a better wife and a better mother. Running is my passion now, and since I keep my body in tip top shape, I would never put another poison in my body or smoke another cigarette, so it has become the glue of my recovery from drugs as well. That’s my story, as far as running is concerned, its still being written, but I am living breathing proof, that change is possible, even if you feel like you are crawling out of a bottomless pit of pain. You can overcome and achieve all your dreams, You just have to start and keep going forward."
Christina writes:
"My name is Christina, I am a recovering IV drug addict. I was addicted to methamphetamine for 10 years. I lost everything to the drug, it ruled my everyday life. My family was miserable and I was dying. So many negative things happened not only to me, but to everyone I loved because of the lifestyle I was living. I got clean and sober with help. With this sobriety came a massive weight gain,. Then I got pregnant and I was in the worst shape of my life, so very unhealthy. I was unable to carry my daughter to term, and she was born 11 weeks early at 1lb 4ozs. I had preeclampsia, it killed me to see her struggle and fight to live, all because my body failed her. I was 198lbs at 5’1 I was severely overweight. I had a c-section and the recovery from that was what made me aware of how sick I was. So I started to eat better and workout on an elliptical machine for 10 minutes. This was in December of 2011. I noticed the weight start to come off, and that my body was getting stronger. I got a treadmill, because in my heart I had always wanted to run. Walking never felt right, I wanted more speed and to push harder. So I started running. Not much at first, it was a min of running at a 4.5 pace followed by 2 minutes of walking at a 3.5 pace. I did this for months, eventually working up to 4 min runs, with less walking. Then one day I decided to try a mile, I did it. I was so overwhelmed with emotion that I collapsed on the floor in a puddle of tears. I had ran a mile. The miles just kept piling up, in June of 2012 I moved my running to the outdoors. I bought a jogging stroller so I could bring my miracle of a daughter with me. It was hard. I eventually got up to 5 mile runs 5 or 6 days a week. I was a runner. I have never looked back. This summer, I am running races. I did my first 5k mud run on May 18th it was amazing. Next mud run is in June. Then comes the real challenge of strength and endurance, a chance to see how far I have come and what I am made of. A half Marathon 13.1 miles. When I started this journey I just wanted to loose weight and be healthier, I never dreamed I would become a runner, who runs for fun. I have found so much of what I lost from my drug addiction in my achievements as runner. I have found my identity again. I have become a better wife and a better mother. Running is my passion now, and since I keep my body in tip top shape, I would never put another poison in my body or smoke another cigarette, so it has become the glue of my recovery from drugs as well. That’s my story, as far as running is concerned, its still being written, but I am living breathing proof, that change is possible, even if you feel like you are crawling out of a bottomless pit of pain. You can overcome and achieve all your dreams, You just have to start and keep going forward."
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 05/25/2013
Meet Joanna - Mommyathlon to 4 (yes, 1,2,3,4) children!! Joanna lost 50lbs in the past year and finished her first half marathon just a few weeks ago! WHAT A MEGA ACCOMPLISHMENT! Joanna claims that "a year and a half ago I wouldn't have ran out of the house if it were on fire now my husband and I use running as a bondingexperience and to teach the kids about being healthy and exercising!" Congratulations as they are giving their 4 little ones a present that will keep them healthy their entire lives.
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 05/18/2013
Beth and her gorgeous 5yr old son, Toby. She finished the 2012 Medtronic Marathon in Minnesota and set a new PR for herself. Toby ran the kids race the day before and completed his first sanctioned event. WAY TO GO BETH - motivating moms and her sweet boy!
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MOMMYATHLON MOTIVATOR OF THE WEEK 05/11/2013
A mother who was diagnosed with scoliosis when she was 14 years old and was told that she would never run again. A mother who underwent back surgery, pain, therapy and built herself up one slow step at a time. A mother who went on to complete her first marathon and became a Mommyathlon. This is her story - read it, live it and believe you can overcome obstacles that come your way. Thank you to Gelcys for sharing her story. Follow this amazing Mommyathlon at Runner Unleashedand throw a like her way if you haven's already. You can also follow her web page: http://
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