Gifts for runners, from a runner

The moment I saw the opportunity, I knew I was in.

The Another Mother Runner holiday challenge group, Striding Through The Holidays, would have the opportunity to participate in a Secret BAMR Exchange. Ala Secret Santa, we would be assigned a mother runner for whom we would buy a gift, spending no more than $20.

To make it a bit easier to pick something for a complete stranger, we were directed to keep the gifts in the running or self care categories. But if we were feeling adventurous, there were some mother runner elves who could get size and preference information.

Easy peasy, I thought. Any gift I give to a fellow runner will always include two things: Nuun and NAAWK. An email promoting a Sparkly Soul grab bag put another thing in the box for my Secret BAMR.

And then I was stuck. Just what else makes a good gift for a fellow runner? Here are some of my own ideas, plus some gleaned from the group.

"Brave Enough," by Cheryl Strayed. "Wild" (nearly) inspired me to ditch my family and go hiking on the Pacific Coast Trail. "Brave Enough" will encourage you to lead a better life and do the things you want.

Tech-smart gloves. There's nothing worse than trying to fiddle with your phone or watch in the middle of winter only to have to take off your gloves when it's 19 degrees. There are affordable styles at Target that do the job or you can be awesome like the Secret BAMR who sent me a pair of wind-resistant mitts (gloves with a mitten overcoat).

Cute beanie. I lusted over a Saucony skull cup for months after seeing it on a fellow blogger and lucked out when I saw it on clearance after the holidays last year. The print I have is no longer available but Saucony still has some really cute styles, including a reversible beanie with a polka dot print.

Believe journal. For a few days, it seemed like every other mother received this treat from Lauren Fleshman. It's a great tool for documenting your running and, I have to say, the new colors are really cute.

Dr. Teal's Epsom salts. Second to the Believe journal, epsom salts were probably one of the most popular gifts. Not only does soaking in the salts relieve sore, tired muscles but using them means something else – you are (hopefully) taking 15 minutes or more to yourself. No kids, no husbands, no dog storming in. I also like these because I'm sometimes too cheap to spend money on something like this.

Kara Goucher Nuun bottle. A lot of my running friends are super friends of Kara, and the Nuun bottle with her likeness is a great add on. Or, if you are like me, you can stuff the bottle full of goodies. When my friends ran the Monumental Marathon, I gave them a race day necessity gift. Inside a Nuun bottle, I added trial size tubes of NAAWK, single-serve Nuun tabs, gels and Swedish Fish.

"Meals on the Run." Buying a cookbook almost seems passe now but the Runners World cookbooks are fantastic. The recipes are tasty and nutritious, and the pages contain tips for fueling, hydration and recovery.

A personal note. I think there is something great about an actual card, with ink smudges and uneven penmanship. Or a note that means something – and not in the cheesy Hallmark way. To my Secret BAMR, I wrote an almost embarrassing explanation on a torn piece of paper in my car, my handwriting bad and too big.

But I also made a running-related Christmas card. "Merry Miles and Happy Nuun Year," it read. And next to the letters, I tried to fashion a tree out of single-serve Nuun (though when I first showed Mark, he said it looked like condoms).

I created it using PicMonkey, and I have to say that I'm rather proud. Even if it does look like something else ...

What running gifts are you giving this year? Which would you like to receive?

Summer Running Essentials {Giveaway}

I was a mile into my run and already dripping. From my brow, my cheeks, my arms as they flapped in the stale air. I tried to wipe my face with the bottom of my shirt mid-stride but it did little to ease the situation.

I needed water.

There was a fountain up ahead, and I pumped my arms up the tiny hill to get to the park. The two minutes it took to get there seemed like an eternity as the sun shone high from the sky, even at 8:45.

I tried not to gulp the cool water coming from the fountain. Sip, sip, wait. Sip, sip, wait. As I paused, I glanced down at my phone and checked the weather. 74 degrees, 66 percent humidity and a dewpoint of 62. According to a chart my friend shared, the conditions were equivalent to running in a monsoon and would negatively affect my run by 175%. I'm not so sure I buy it but another chart I saw said I would run 1:05 slower per mile in the conditions.

But I didn't need numbers to tell me something I already knew: This was summer running at its finest.

It seems, as runners, that we get two good seasons – fall and winter – and two seasons that make us work. Winter requires us to layer up, find the best insulated tights, search for a well-fitting hat and seek solutions to slippery trails.

Summer, though, is not so much about the best clothes. Many of us can get by with a good pair of shorts, supportive bra (current favorite: Moving Comfort Juno, which is on sale!) and tank. To get through the hot season, we require gear that keeps us healthy, safe and happy.

My essentials:

Pro Compression low socks. I sweat from head to toe, literally. Factor in puddles from summer storms, and my shoes and socks can be wrung out at the end of the run. Such conditions make it imperative to have a good pair of socks. Socks that wick moisture. Socks that hug the foot without being too tight. Socks that don't slip, move or bunch. Socks like the Pro Compression trainers.

Why is it so important? An ill-fitting sock can rub, chafe and cause blisters in dry conditions. The damage will be that much worse on sweaty, wet feet.

Pro Compression trainers hit me slightly above the ankle, keeping the back of the shoe from rubbing the skin. The socks feature a built-in "Stabilizer Zone," which promotes balance and support; a non-slip design to keep your sock in place; and advanced materials for maximum comfort and moisture control. The icing on the cake? They are made in the USA.

The low trainers come in 13 colors and at $25 for two pairs, they are comparable to other running socks.

Looking for something a little different? Pro Compression also has the PC Runner, a premium running sock that is lightweight, durable and extremely breathable. As for the style, it's what you have come to expect from the creative folks at Pro. Translation: They are flipping fabulous.

Nuun. According to  Owen Barder, author of "Running for Fitness," you will generally lose around 17 ounces during an hour run, or 8.5 ounces during a 30-minute run. [Source] People who are heavy sweaters can lose more water during that time period. Hot, humid conditions can also increase fluid loss, making it imperative to stay hydrated – even on those 30-minute runs. Nuun has an optimal blend of electrolytes that will help keep you hydrated. And, it tastes great. Before a summer run, I prepare a bottle of Nuun to drink while I get ready and a second to take on the outing.

Naawk. There seems to be some debate over whether you really need sunscreen but as someone who is fair-skinned and red-headed, I burn easily. Burning = Bad. I've tried a lot of sunscreens in my life but none have compared to Naawk. I was first introduced to the brand when I ran Hood to Coast, and I have loved it since. At our house, we have a bottle of sunscreen in the stroller, in the diaper bag, in the trunk of each car and in the bathroom. We are never without it. I'm a particular fan of the continuous spray SPF 30. It's not greasy and it smells good. I also like that I don't have to goop up my hands. Why? Take a gel 45 minutes into a long run and get back to me. Naawk also has an eco-friendly sunscreen pouch with a carabiner – perfect for clipping on a backpack when you go hiking or on the diaper bag for a day at the pool.

Now for the giveaway!

One lucky reader will win a pair of Pro Compression PC Runner socks, along with a betty designs Nuun bottle, two tubes of Nuun (watermelon and strawberry lemonade) and, count them, three bottles of continuous-spray Naawk sunscreen. Enter using the widget below.

Remember, you can always save 40 percent on Pro Compression marathon socks and sleeves using the code PRO15. Save 42 percent sitewide, even on low trainers and PC Runners, this month with the code JUNE.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I was not compensated in any way for this post. Pro Compression is providing the PC Runners to the winner and Naawk provided me with sunscreen to share as I saw fit. The Nuun bottle and tubes of Nuun are provided by me because I love you all so much. A big thanks to Pro Compression for supporting this giveaway.

Stocking Stuffers for Runners {+ Awesome Giveaway}

"Are we doing stockings this year?" Mark asked.

I was putting the finishing touches on the mantle, my favorite thing to decorate for the holidays. There was a reindeer basket overflowing with fragrant potpurri and a string of frosted cranberries that ran along the length. Two silver snowflakes held knitted stockings and, from the arm of a snowman, hung a third stocking. They were empty — for now — a fact confirmed by a curious Miles.

"Yes. Of course we are," I said as I toyed with the cranberries.

I should admit that, for me, stocking stuffers are easy. I buy Mark copious amounts of Reese's trees and a sample size cologne. Miles gets a Tootsie Roll bank (family tradition) and an ornament. All it takes is one trip to Target.

For Mark, it means another round of presents — not that either of us mind, though maybe I shouldn't speak for him. I like to receive gifts, he likes to give them and all it really takes is a trip to my favorite running store. As I told him this year, he wouldn't even have to browse — he just had to talk to my favorite girls and they could do it for him.

But for those looking to get stocking stuffers for their favorite runners, here are my top picks.

Note: I don't want to see any eye rolling — below will be one of the raddest Healthy Strides giveaways ever. 

Pro Compression socks. Where fashion meets function, these socks are a staple in my running wardrobe. I wear the trainers for everyday runs and workouts, and the marathon socks come out for long runs and recovery. When it's cold, the tall socks double as a way to keep my lower extremities warm and my feet dry. And they are cute.

So, so, so cute.

Remember that you can save 40 percent on marathon socks and sleeves with the code BLG14. And the trainers are such a good — deal $25 for two pairs, which means the recipient will be doubly as happy or you can keep one for yourself. I won't tell.

Nuun. Even though training might be winding down for a lot of people, Nuun is never out of season. I drink my favorite (non-caffeinated) flavors year-round, whether I'm running on the treadmill, teaching a class or just trying to keep myself hydrated. And, at the office, I'm drinking Nuun All-Day. It has zero sugar, less than 8 calories per tab, and an all-natural blend of 17 vitamins and minerals. It comes in 4 flavors: Grapefruit Orange, Tangerine Lime, Blueberry Pomegranate, and Grape Raspberry. A tube of Nuun — or four — will easily fit in a stocking.

NAAWK. Tell me this: Have you ever actually used an entire tube of lip balm before losing it? Yeah. Me neither. If I don't lose it, someone either takes it or it gets washed in my pants. It's why I bought six — yes, six — tubes of my favorite lip balm, NAAWK, before the season started. I keep one in my car, one in my purse, one in my desk and one in my gym bag. I also have spares around the house for when Mark's "lips hurt real bad." (Name that movie quote!) Why NAAWK? "NAAWK is a lifestyle driven brand that meets the needs of an active, outdoor enthusiast. NAAWK sun care products are specifically designed with this environment in mind, offering the best skin and sun care products available," the website reads. And, for me, I just think they are awesome.

Road ID. Safety — there's no better gift than that. A Road ID bracelet is a $20 insurance policy in the event that something happens when your runner is out on the road. Pick out a new style or give a gift card and you'll give yourself peace of mind.

Now ... for the details on the giveaway.

• There will be three winners.
• Winner No. 1 will receive a pair of Pro Compression marathon socks or sleeves and a $30 gift card to Road ID.
• Winner No. 2 will receive a mixed four-pack of Nuun All-Day and a $20 Road ID gift card.
• Winner No. 3 will receive a gift pack from NAAWK, including continuous spray sun screen, travel-size hand and body lotion, zinc stick and lip balm; and a $20 Road ID gift card. 
• Winners will be selected by a random generator. The first name selected will receive the Pro Compression prize, the second name will receive the Nuun and the third will receive the Naawk. 
• Pro Compression, Nuun and NAAWK are providing prizes for this giveaway, and the Road ID gifts were ordered by me with referral credits. I was not compensated for this post. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Packing for an Overnight Relay: Bourbon Chase Supplies

I put gas in the Mazda. I requested three big hugs and two kisses from Miles before leaving daycare. I have a stack of maps printed (never trust the GPS).

It seems I am ready to head to the Bluegrass State to take on the Bourbon Chase, an overnight relay that takes runners through some of the finest distilleries between Louisville and Lexington.

And though I'm packing for one, my hatchback is full with supplies for this 30-hour adventure.

Essentials

Clothing: Faster teams might opt not to change but I sweat - a lot - and I don't want to sit in the van with stinky, wet clothes. I'll have three sets, each in its own bag. Since this year's race theme is disco, I'm packing two Team Sparkle skirts. I also will have my Flyer jacket and in between running clothes.

Shoes: Two pairs. I rotate shoes between runs and with three runs in such a short time, I want a fresh pair for my longest leg of 8 miles. Also some in between running shoes.

Compression: It's your friend. Cramped up in a van and running a lot means that my muscles will need to recover as best they can between legs. I planned my outfits around my Pro Compression socks, and the company graciously outfitted the team with black and red socks to fit our pirate name.

Reflective gear: Each van needs to have at least one set of gear that includes headlamp, blinking lights and a vest. My captain, wisely, suggested we have at least two sets so I'm bringing what I have. Eve if we have an overabundance, it will be nice to sweat on my own stuff.

Nourishment

If I learned anything at Hood to Coast, it's that a relay isn't a relay without the right goodies - Red Vines, peanut butter-filled pretzels, trail mix. I signed on to be one of the ones bringing snacks, and my bag has Red Vines, granola bars, pretzels, pumpkin banana muffins, peanut butter and jelly and Combos.

Also, thanks to the generosity of Nuun, our team is hooked up. We'll have an ample supply of flavors - active and Nuun Energy - as well as a bottle to drink from. Hydration is key in this type of event, and I'm glad we're well taken care of.

Incidentals

Mother Nature is not expected to be kind to us on this journey and thus we are preparing to get wet and wild. Towels for drying off and newspaper to stuff inside shoes.

Other items include:

• Shower Pill athletic wipes. No showers, probably, for nearly two days times seven people equals a lot of funk. These wipes are awesome and should help us stay as fresh and as clean as we can.
• USB car adapter, iPhone and iPhone charger, Garmin and Garmin charger
• Tiger Tail. Recovery. Do it. It can also be used as a prop while cheering on runners, if I am accurately remembering Hood to Coast.
• Sleeping bag. I am not sure how I'll use it - on the floor, as a blanket, as a pillow - but I want it.
• NAAWK sunscreen. I can hope that I need this.

Entertainment

A cowbell, obviously. How else would my teammates notice me cheering on the side of the road? It will also work if a runner falls asleep and refuses to stir.

Oh, and myself.

What items are essential for you relay vets out there?

Disclosure: My team was provided free socks and Nuun but we were not supported financially in the race nor was I compensated for this post. I also was not required to write this post - only to share the love and love Pro Compression and Nuun I do.

A Runner's Guide to Summer Essentials

"You should probably start wearing sunscreen."

My work husband, full of the snark as one would expect, did have a point - even if he was sort of wrong and I sort of didn't care. For a redhead, my skin has become an almost unbelievable shade of tan. I have lines from my Oiselle strappy bra and others from a mesh tank I got at JC Penney. There's an odd ombre look from shorts and then shorter shorts. My face has almost reached its threshold for tan, my nose almost permanently a pinkish red.

As if my sweat-drenched clothes weren't enough of a reminder, my glow is proof that summer has arrived. And though it's easy to remember to take care in winter - gloves, tights, hat - I find it equally easy to forget to take precautions in the summer. It's warm! I only need 5 seconds to get dressed! Let's go!

We all know that there's more to fair-weather runner that that. We should put some thought into getting ready for a workout - whether it's an easy 3-miler or a long run with some goal pace miles thrown in.

Here are my summer running essentials:

NAAWK sunscreen. Red hair, pale skin requires good sun protection, and my favorite is NAAWK. I fell in love with this brand when I ran Hood to Coast last year, and it got me through many brutal miles along the Oregon countryside. Its ingredient list is recognizable and natural, the smell is pleasant, it's not greasy and it doesn't burn your eyes when you sweat like a beast. It comes in SPF 30 and 50, in lotion and continuous spray - all of which I've used. The price is right, too, at $9.99 for 6 ounces.

A good hat. While sunscreen is a necessity to protect from harmful rays, I still like to wear a hat. It keeps the sun out of my eyes. And, as a girl with short hair that can't be pulled up, it keeps my mane tamed and out of my face. I'm particularly fond of my Saucony cap (similar here) that I got free with gift during an event at my local running store. It's comfortable, has a nice brim and doesn't fall off my head, thanks to an adjustable bungee cord.

NUUN Energy. On the best of summer runs, my face might feel a bit grainy. On the worst, I look like a salt rock on the bottom of the Dead Sea. There's no denying it - I'm a salty runner. It's why I rely on NUUN to power me through longer workouts and help me recover from all of them. I typically drink a glass before and after every summer run to keep my electrolyte balanced, and I will bring it with me on longs run for extra help. (I either wear a hydration pack or split my fuel belt bottles with water and Nuun.) I am particularly fond of the Energy line, if even for the placebo effect. It has caffeine for an extra kick and B vitamins can help athletes perform at higher levels (source). Oh, and it tastes good.

Hydration source. You have to have a way to drink that Nuun, right? I have tried out many a handheld and hydration system, and my favorites come from Nathan Sports.  For single-digit runs, I like the QuickShot Plus. It's easy to hold and with an 10-ounce bottle, the weight of the liquid doesn't throw off my stride. Ten ounces not enough? The bottle can be filled at a park fountain with ease. For longer runs and now triathlon training, I favor the Intensity Vest. The bladder holds 2 liters of liquid, which is more than enough to carry you through the miles on the hottest of days. I like it, too, because it doesn't rub my birthin' hips the way a belt does.

PRO Compression low trainers. Sweat + friction = Gnarly blisters. As such, wearing the wrong sock can wreak havoc on the feet. It's paramount to find a pair that is designed for running, made with a wicking material and doesn't slide around. It's a bonus if my second toe doesn't poke through. And it doesn't with PRO Compression low trainers. While many might think of the company for its over-the-knee marathon sock, the low trainers are just as awesome. They hold tight to the feet, don't slip and come in fun colors. They also come up just a tad higher than some other running socks, keeping the back of the shoe from rubbing. And, at $25 for two pairs, it's not a bad price. Use code FUN to save 40 percent and get free shipping on the lavender version. That's $7.50 a pair, folks!

What are your summer running essentials?

Disclosure: I am an ambassador for Nuun and PRO Compression but I was not required nor even asked to write this post. All opinions are my own and no compensation was received.

What do you got in that bag?: A vlog

These days, I sort of feel like I live out of my gym bag.

I teach three classes a week and, more and more, I've been going to the YMCA for treadmill runs between daycare dropoff and work. It's always overflowing with workout wear, some sweaty and some formerly sweaty but now frozen. Earbuds dangle dangerously near doors, and one pair of shoes is always to be found there.

After seeing a video post by Sarah Fit about her gym bag essentials, I thought I'd do the same. Except with lower quality, toddler interruptions and a mischievous dog. It's a tad on the long side but it's possible you have 8 minutes to spare.

Products featured:

Lug Life Puddle Jumper bag
Naawk lip balm
Lemon tea Nuun
Old Navy Graphic Tank
Old Navy Cross-Front Panel Yoga Pants
Sportline Cardio Heart Rate Monitor
Manduka eQua Mat Towel