I Ran For Meg! #megsmiles

Today I ran. I was tired, and I really didn't want to. I am just getting back into running after medical problems, and it's not easy to run. But today I ran... Why? Because I can! Because I am able to lace up and go outside whenever I want to. 

Today, Meg Menzies didn't wake up and run. She couldn't because the last time she laced up was the LAST time she will ever lace up. A drunk driver took her life. She will never hug her 3 children again, and she will never hug her husband. I had to run today. Even though I didn't really want to. I had to for her. For her children. For her husband. For her memory. 

I have never met Meg. We aren't neighbors. But she was a runner. And runners CARE about other runners. 

I ran today because I had to. What if I lace up, and it's my last run? What if my last hug to Bryce is my last hug? I had to run today because there was NO other choice. I had to appreciate the pavement under my feet. I had to love the wind trying to stop me on my sprints. I had experience the pain and voice in my head telling me to stop. I had to LIVE! I had to do it for Meg. I had to do it for me.

My heart aches for Meg and her family. It aches for the man who killed her as well. He will never get over what he did. I know that those drinks weren't worth what happened. There is so much pain in this story. 


Meg, your family is in my prayers. I hope that all of the runners out there appreciate their runs today and I hope everyone remembers not to drink and drive or even text and drive. Life is too precious for that! 

A Few of My Favorite Things: Healthy Gift Options and giveaways!

This post is sponsored by FitFluential LLC on behalf of Koss. Giveaway products were also given for this post, but all opinions are my own.

I know that we are always looking for the perfect gift for the people in our lives. I have put together this gift guide to help you find something for that special someone in your life!

1. Koss Headphones
As a runner, I have tried so many different kinds of headphones. I have finally found the ones that work for me. Have you heard of Koss? Koss makes headphone specifically for women! The fit clip (pictured to the right) are the ones that I like the best. I can finally run without playing with my headphones. These have been a huge help with my running.

FitBuds ($29.99*):

- 33% smaller (than any earbud Koss has ever created) - Sweat resistant - Three different sizes of ear cushions included for the perfect fit

FitClips ($29.99*):

- Do not fall out - Sweat resistant - Three different sizes of ear cushions included for the perfect fit

You can purchase these at

Availability:

Wal-Mart* Best Buy* Walgreens* Kmart* Sears* *retailers will promote at $19.99 this Holiday Season.

You can find Koss on Social Media:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/koss 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KossHeadphones 

Instagram: http://instagram.com/koss

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/KossHeadphones

2. The LOOP! by Polar
This is the coolest gadget I think that I have ever owned. I have only had it a few days, and my son has already written Santa to add it to his list.
This is the activity tracker that makes you move! It is great. You don't have to hook it to your phone to find out your progress. It has a button on top that tells you everything you need to know. The really cool thing is that you can wear a Heart Rate strap and it will work as a Polar Heart Rate Monitor too. It's like having it all in one! It is a must have. Here's a video  to learn more.

3. Gorgo Magazine

You can go to http://gorgomag.com/subscribe/  My good friends Valerie and Erica decided to start their own women's magazine. They wanted it to be real. They are looking to inspire everyday women into leading healthy lifestyles. They are so knowledgeable and amazing people!

You can subscribe to Gorgo for just $1.99 an issue. It is interactive and online. You will not regret this purchase.

Taken from their website: "GORGO articles are for all women of all ages craving fitness and health content from trusted experts.  We understand how the modern everyday woman actually lives, and each issue reflects that with its sections: EAT, MOVE, LIVE, LEARN."

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4. Skora Running Shoes

I LOVE my Skora running shoes! They are the best way to run! I did a blog about them a couple of months ago. http://www.mindysfitnessjourney.com/2013/09/skora-running-review-and-giveaway.html They are amazing! "SKORA combines anatomical designs, premium materials, and a balanced approach to cushioning. This results in shoes that encourage a more natural and enjoyable run." They also have a great safety feature with the reflective technology. Check them out at skorarunning.com.
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5. Polar Heart Rate Monitor 
Seriously!!! You need one of these if you don't have one. Polar Heart Rate monitors have changed my life. It has changed how I work out and how I track my workouts. I just got two new Polars for myself for Christmas. 

It is my firm belief that I push myself harder when I can see how many calories I have burned and how many I need to burn! Head over to http://www.polar.com/us-en.

They have a great app for the iPhone and soon for the Droid called The Polar Beat. You just need a Polar Bluetooth Smart Heart Rate Sensor. Play for a chance to win one right here!  Enter the Rafflecopter for your chance to win the Smart Heart Rate Sensor.

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6. STORMp3: http://stormp3.com/

This is a first of its kind. I was sent this product to check it out. We love it! It is great to finally have some music in the shower. I sound much better singing for sure! 
STORMp3 is the first water resistant, wall mountable MP3 player with integrated speakers built with the bathroom in mind. The unique design and style of this new digital audio player makes it a perfect gift for the Holidays.
Enter the Coupon Code: holiday when you purchase a Stormp3 Portable Shower Speaker and receive a color-matched Fogless Shower Mirror by Toilettree Products for FREE! Amazon’s top-rated shower mirror is guaranteed not to fog — and it’s a $30 Value!



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7. Sparkly Soul headbands
These are my favorite headbands. They don't slip! They are simply amazing. You can read my blog post about them here: http://www.mindysfitnessjourney.com/2013/01/feeling-sparkly.html

You need to try one. You will never go back. I have not! I actually need more!



8. Peace Love and Low Carb cookbook
My good friend Kyndra has a brand new cookbook out right now. You have to go check it out. You can head over to her website http://www.peaceloveandlowcarb.com/. She is offering a giveaway for us too. You can win one of her cookbooks. All you have to do is comment on one of her recipes on her blog and then fill out the rafflecopter below.

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9. Core Power

Core Power is awesome. I have been asked to be an ambassador and they are giving me a fun prize pack to give you in a giveaway. 

Milk is one of the best sources of protein, helping to build lean muscle and recharge the body when consumed directly after physical activity. Core Power is the real-milk based sports recovery drink and contains natural whey and casein proteins found in milk - never removed from their original liquid state. The brand features simple ingredients and great taste, without a chalky texture. You can also check out the website for recipes!

Core Power is available nationally. They were recently named the "Official Protein Drink of the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games!" That is a pretty amazing reason to give them a try!
Follow Core Power on twitter and facebook!

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10. Feel Fit Wear

This is the outfit I received. It's the cutest!!!!

There are many benefits on FeelFitWear fitness clothing, the soft feel, the fashion look and the versatility but there are some features that they like to put for a test on reviews.
   1. The Wash test - After I wore my outfit, it washed up great!  I didn't dry it because I do not dry my workout clothes. My outfit still looks as good as new.
2. The Dry Test - It dries pretty quickly which shows there is definitely moisture wicking material.
3. The Sweat test – There were some sweat marks due to the fact that I sweat like crazy, but I was amazed by how fast it disappeared.

You can find them on Social media here:
 
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/feelfitwear
Twitter: https://twitter.com/feelfitwear
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/Feelfitwear
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/feelfitwear/
Instagram - http://instagram.com/FeelFitWear#
  

Everyday free shipping within U.S
FeelFitWear sells wholesale
They offer 15% OFF to all fitness instructors: To apply send an email to fitnessexperts@feelfitwear.com with a proof of a fitness certificate.
  

Extra Credit!  HipChip

And if you can't decide on what to get someone, go in on a gift card with your friends and use . I wrote a blog about them last week. It is a brilliant way to give group gifts easily! You can read it here: http://www.mindysfitnessjourney.com/2013/12/looking-for-perfect-gift-hipchip-is.html

GIVEAWAY ALERT! Congratulations on ONE YEAR CrossFit Blackbeard!

It's time to celebrate! CrossFit Blackbeard is celebrating their first year in business! I have really enjoyed being part of the Blackbeard family and have already seen so many changes since I began. I look forward to seeing more from myself as I continue to make it a habit in my life. 

We have teamed up to give away a Polar FT7 Heart Rate Monitor. I LOVE what my heart rate monitor reports to me during my CrossFit workouts and I have learned that CrossFit pushes me harder than any other workout! You will love having this tool to help you push yourself! 






Enter the Rafflecopter below!

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Workin' it Wednesday!

There is a lot going on these days... 
I need your help! My CrossFit Box, CrossFit Blackbeard is giving away a month free. This would be very helpful for me. Would you mind going to their facebook page and liking this picture of me and Bryce? The voting ends on Aug. 7th. Thank you.

Click this link to vote for me... Please!

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=537468236317616&set=a.537467026317737.1073741834.395146910549750&type=1&theater

The Mom Power Team shared a photo of me today. It makes me feel proud when I see it even though I am nowhere near where I need to be yet. I am working hard to change that though! Being a part of the Mom Power Team is pretty amazing. It's 20 strong, proud women supporting each other. 

Don't forget to sign up for my DietBet and share it with your friends! http://www.dietbet.com/games/19977 This is going to be a lot of fun. We are almost up $4000 in the pot. Plus you could also win a Polar Heart Rate Monitor!

Last but not least.... GIVEAWAYS!!!!

Click HERE to enter
This has ended! 

Click HERE to enter

Family Fitness Fun at Manatee Paddle

SUP at Manatee Paddle: A Great Way to Enjoy Nature and Get a workout! 

Do you want something amazing to do this summer with your family? Head out to Crystal River's brand new place to experience one of a kind nature and fun! Manatee Paddle is all of that and so much more! My son and I got a group of bloggers together and headed out for a day on the water. It was the most fun! Manatee Paddle is located right off of Crystal River and if you have never been to Crystal River, you have to check it out. 

As we launched, Bryce, my 9 year old, went first. He was a pro! He made me realize that I could do it. I have never been paddle boarding before so I was a bit nervous. There was no need to be. I did fall twice, but I quickly learned to center myself and engage my core. It was easy! We also had a chance to stop and swim and enjoy the beautiful water. My son saw a manatee and was very excited.

How about this for a calorie burn??? And I had a blast the whole time!

Manatee Paddle opens June 1st. We were fortunate to be a part of the trial run. Wes, who runs the tours was amazing. He had so much patience and knowledge, it was a blast. I cannot wait to go back once they open. We are addicted! Please hop over and "like" their facebook page. You have to see this great new business in action! 

The water was so clear and so beautiful in the Springs.  We started out on the river and paddled over to The Three Sisters Springs. It was so beautiful! I hope you will check it out. Have you ever been paddle boarding before? I definitely want to buy one, soon!

*disclosure: Manatee Paddle provided this tour free of charge. All opinions are my own.

BET you can't lose weight! And WIN!!!

Bet you can't lose weight!!!  And win!

This photo is from TheStir.Cafemom.com

Have you ever wanted to gamble and be guaranteed to win? Me too! That is why I joined DietBet!
Well, with this gamble, you WILL win because the results are up to you. You are in control of whether you win or lose!

Well, it's legit! I have won 2 DietBets myself, and they have even been featured on the Today Show. Research out of the Mayo Clinic shows that when money is involved as an incentive, people will double their chances of losing weight. Join the bet with me.

All you have to do is pay $25. You can only win!!! Unless you give up on yourself, but none of you are going to do that right? You have 4 weeks to lose 4% of your body weight! EASY! Let's do this. The DietBet begins on April 8. It lasts for 4 weeks. Sign up today at http://dietbet.com/mindysfitnessjourney

Don't forget about my beautiful giveaway from LoveMichelle.net!!!

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Huge Giveaway Extravaganza Begins!!! 

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Giveaway Extravaganza!!

5,000 Facebook Likes Extravaganza! 

Have you "liked" Mindy's Fitness Journey on facebook yet?

Guess what... I am less than 100 likes til the giveaway extravaganza!!! I will be giving away a Polar HRM, a week of free meals from Diet-to-Go, a medal display from Allied Medal Displays and MANY other awesome giveaways!!! ** StickItStrong, PRO Compression, Busy Mom Gets Fit, The Sox Box, Blogging Planner and Shubeez among others!!!

As soon as I hit 5,000 likes, the Polar Heart Rate Monitor giveaway will go up! Then there will be a new giveaway every other day or so! It's going to be a lot of fun! Make sure you subscribe to my blog and follow Mindy's Fitness Journey on Facebook.

Ignite Fitness is looking for speakers for FitBloggin this summer! And I could be one of them! 

Please go vote for the speakers at FitBloggin you would want to hear!!! They aren't naming the bloggers who entered, but If you happen to notice one about becoming a fit twit in 6 mos, you may want to pick that one :) 

Winning this would be huge for me because it would comp the ticket to FitBloggin. That will save me a lot of money! 
Share with your friends. http://fitbloggin.com/2013/03/ignite-fitness-keynote-vote-now/#more-3849

And don't forget about the awesome giveaway that is going on right now!!!

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Be Safe: My Baseball Mama Drama Bootcamp and my giveaway

This is Bryce and I getting out of the car before
baseball mama bootcamp

Pay Attention!
Run or Walk with a Buddy! 

Last night, my good friend, Amanda and I were walking around the loop where our sons play baseball. We have done this a few times before. We actually call it "Baseball Mommy Bootcamp!" Our other partner in crime wasn't there (our fault because we should have told her that we were going to go early before the game.)

As we walked the loop, we saw an older man wearing a neon vest like he was a runner, but he was walking really slowly, and after I thought about it, I remembered that he wasn't even walking the path. It was odd. We did comment to each other about it. We walked around again, and we saw him. Still no big deal. I actually felt bad because I thought to myself, "At least he is here. He may not be working hard, but hey, he's here!"

This is us after our workout and the craziness! Glad to be done!

On our third and last loop, we saw him up ahead of us, and he turned to walk in the other direction. When he did this, we noticed that he had manipulated his shorts so that we could see his... okay I don't want to call it a butt or bottom, because that it was too gross to be called that. It was disgusting. We could see his backside. He walked a few steps and turned around and said, "Hi Ladies!" in a VERY creepy, knowing voice. We kept walking, and after a few steps, I think it hit us what happened. This was not a mistake. He wanted us to see his backside and he wanted us to know that he was wearing bikini black underwear that may have even been panties.

The more we discussed it, the worse we felt about it. We just felt icky!  Luckily, we were together and it wasn't dark yet (thank you Daylight Savings Time!) We immediately told Amanda's husband, who went looking for him. He didn't find him. Looking back, we should have called the police. This man was truly a predator, and I will keep my eyes open for him, and I will call the police if I see him.

It was really eye opening. There are people who are so crazy out there. It's important that we don't take our safety for granted. If you run alone, pay attention. Don't run alone in the dark. Keep your kids near you when they are at parks. Bad people are out there waiting for us good people to slip up.

What is the scariest thing that has ever happened to you when you didn't expect it? Comment below.

Don't forget about my Limitless Bracelets Giveaway!   CLICK HERE!!!!

Color Me RAD!

Time to be colorful... AGAIN!

Who doesn't love a Color Run!

I am so excited to tell you that I will be running the Color Me Rad run on May 25th in Tampa.  As you know, Bryce (my son) and I did the Color Run in December. This was one of the best days that we have had. While I was slow, and Bryce wanted to go faster, it was a blast! We had color everywhere, and we loved it.

On May 25 (the day before my birthday) Bryce and I will run the Color Me Rad race.

This photo is courtesy of Color Me Rad.

This is my kind of family fun! It's a great run to get all of your family involved. Bryce and I are trying to get my mom to join us too! 

Who wants to join us?
Check out Color Me Rad's facebook page for updates or register here. I haven't registered yet, but when I do, I will let you know what time. 

Question for you: Have you done a run that gets you colorful? Tell me about it below!

disclosure: Color Me Rad has offered me a free registration to blog about this. All opinions are my own.