Stephanie Sheaffer writes about books, babies, travel, food, and philanthropy.
Today, my 6-year-old and I ran 2 miles. Simultaneously, we helped send a girl in the developing world to school for two weeks. We didn't fundraise or send in a check. We took our legs, our lungs, and our hearts - and hit the pavement. This is how it works. Download the Charity Miles app on your phone. Whenever you run, walk, or bike - select a charity of your choice. Bikers earn 10¢ a mile and walkers and runners earn 25¢ a mile (up to the company's initial $1,000,000 … [Read more...]
I ran my first 10K yesterday - my longest run ever! After kissing three little blonde heads, I walked out the front door into 44 degrees and glorious rays of sunlight. One foot in front of the other, I prayed and breathed with each step. If you've circled a 10K date on the calendar and you're gearing up for 6.2 miles, here are 10 tips to get you there: 1. Run a 5K first. Set your sights on smaller races and gradually work your way up. 5Ks are a fantastic distance because you can start … [Read more...]
Tomorrow, my half-marathon plan says that I need to run five miles. It will be my longest run - ever. I'll be wearing a Nike v-neck shirt, New Balance tennis shoes, and Moving Comfort Endurance Capris. These capris are super stretchable, ultra-comfortable, and fantastically flattering. They lift the butt and hold in your stomach. Plus, there's a hidden pocket in the back that can carry your phone, a house key, or a few dollars. I've made good use of that feature when I've been caught in the … [Read more...]
Tim and I sat down a few weeks ago to put together a fitness schedule. We've been running on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings. We also try to add in a "bonus run" on the weekend - either that or a hike/long walk. Tim pushes the girls in the double jogger. I run alongside. We've been running 2.5 miles; the second half uphill. Killer. ------------------------------------------------------- Skirt Sports recently sent me the Tough Girl Skirt ($90) and Happy Hour V-Neck ($65)...and I … [Read more...]
I look over at my running shoes, knowing I should put them on. How is it so incredibly hard to get started? I don't know, but it is. I finally convince myself - remembering all of my reasons. I put on my sports bra. I pull back my hair. I gather shoes and sweaters and snacks for the girls. Tim pushes the double jogger into the gusty gales. At first, we talk. Then, we are silent as I suck in air and catch my breath. Finally, with my heart pounding, I say, "I am so impressed that … [Read more...]
This 5K may have spoiled me for good. It was hosted by Sierra Morado, a master-planned community by Pulte Homes. The goal, of course, was to get people interested in their homes in this not-so-hot economy. But they seriously did an awesome job putting it together. The path was well-marked. The weather was gorgeous (I know they didn't have anything to do with the weather, but it WAS beautiful!). There were Pulte employees cheering us on at various intervals. And, best of all, there was a … [Read more...]
For the longest time, I just thought I wasn't cut out for running. Dancing? Yes. Swimming? Yes. Walking? Yes. But running...? Not for me. Now, however, I go running several times a week and I enjoy participating in local 5Ks in my town. Much of that change was mental...deciding that I, Stephanie Sheaffer, could in fact be a runner. After I had my first baby, I just decided that running was the cheapest, easiest, most convenient, and most effective way for me to get fit...so I did … [Read more...]
Tonight, I'm going to download ten new running songs from iTunes for my birthday (Thank you for the gift card, Joe & Rhonda!): Roll To Me by Del Amitri Two Princes by Spin Doctors Yes I Will by Bebo Norman and Joy Williams Material Girl by Madonna Suds In The Bucket by Sara Evans Suddenly I See by KT Tunstall Should've Said No by Taylor Swift Slide by Goo Goo Dolls There Is No Arizona by Jamie O'Neal Kiss Me by Sixpence None the Richer Don't laugh at my eclectic mix … [Read more...]
“We could move HERE for a year,” Tim glanced over at me as we drove into the glory of the state of Montana. I knew he was completely serious. He would like the mountain life – a log home, a sparkling creek, a porch swing, snowy winters, little ones running in the wild flowers, long [...]
