You know you have the best dad in the whole wide world when he comes to pick you up from the airport with your favorite snacks. He knows I couldn’t last the 45 minute drive without my pretzels and laughing cow wedges.
Right when we got to my parent’s house dinner was ready, Megan’s Cream Cheese Chicken Chili. We were actually going to go straight home after the airport because we were so tired but when my niece called me on the drive home wondering how many more minutes until we were going to be at family dinner we just had to go.
My mom told me to put a chip in the chili to make it more artistic looking for the photo.
We made the right decision to stop by:
I think today I might try to eat something besides just my prenatal vitamins that actually contain nutrients…..maybe even some vegetables.
———————————-
On sent me the Cloudsurfers to test out and review on the blog. They have been in my shoe rotation for the last 2 months, I have done a bunch of long runs in them and I have also ran 2 races in them.
Pros:
-They took a little while to get used to but they really did feel like you were running on clouds. It was a completely different running experience for me which was fun.
-There is a good amount of cushion to help make your landing feel softer but when it came time to push off it was firm and responsive.
-The shoes are light, easy to move around in quickly and flexible.
-They look different than most running shoes which I really like and I love the black body with lime green highlights on the shoe.
-The mesh upper made the shoe very breathable.
-They have gone down to $129 now!
Cons:
-They are slippery. I almost fell a few times while wearing these shoes in the rain which has never happened in my other running shoes.
*******The awesome thing is that the 2012 Cloudsurfer has added a honeycomb pattern into the clouds to allow for a better grip and to make it so that they are no longer slippery!
—————————–
You can watch the BOSTON marathon HERE!!!
Even though my femurs were lame sauce last year and I am pregnant this year, I WILL get my booty to that starting line eventually and every night until then I will continue to wear my Boston shirt.
GOOD LUCK BOSTON RUNNERS!!!!!
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What is the MOST amount of money that you will spend on your running shoes? What is the first thing that you look for in a running shoe?
Will you be watching Boston today? Do you know anyone running it? Have you ever ran it? Would you defer your bib to the next year because of the heat?
What is your dream race?
Are you a laughing cow cheese fan? What do you eat yours on/with?
88 comments
Becky Przy
Mmmm that cake and ice cream look delicious!
I think $125 is the most I would spend on a running shoe. The first thing I look for is proper fit.
I hope to watch some of Boston today. I would defer my bib to next year because of the heat–I do not do well in any type of warm weather for running.
I don’t know if I have a dream race–I just like to run and always wonder why I pay $ to run a race.
Happy Monday! Is your spring break over?
Janae
I really don’t do well in the heat either…it completely drains me! Yep, spring break is officially over:( Oh well, 5 weeks until summer. Have an amazing day Becky!
Katie @ msfitrunner
I think the first thing I look at when looking for shoes is the weight and the heel to toe drop. I really don’t like to spend more than $70 or $80 on shoes.
If I were planning on running Boston today, I would probably run it and not defer. I don’t know why, I just have no desire to run Boston. I am, however, really excited to run NYCM in the fall! I need to get my act together and regroup after a pretty rough marathon this weekend! All in time…;-)
Welcome home to you, I hope you have a great week!
Janae
What drop do you usually try to get? Oh Katie you are absolutely going to LOVE NYCM…I would do it every year if I could. I can’t wait to cheer you on in November!
Ashley
I love laughing cow cheese! I found the greatest recipe ever for laughing cow cheese spinach artichoke dip and have been addicted ever since.
I have heard Boston is supposed to be ridiculously hot this year. I hope everyone stays well-hydrated!
The first thing I look for in a running shoe would be arch support and overall comfort, followed by looks…gotta have a pretty shoe ;)
Janae
Um….can I have that recipe pretty please?!?! Yep, glad you are honest about it..pretty shoes are the best:)
Khushboo
Nothing like a home cooked meal after getting off a flight- good call on going to your mom’s :)! I love Laughing Cow, especially stirred into pasta!
Janae
You are so right:) Okay, I totally have to try this pasta/LC combo…you are brilliant!
Amy B.
I have several friends running it….one who actually benefited from being able to defer because she couldn’t run it for somethings she is going through. I wouldn’t defer it because of eat.. I wonder how many people actually will defer? It will be interesting to see the statistics on it. If a lot do, it will be harder to get in 2013.
I loved the Asics Gel Kayano for so long $140, the most I would pay…My wallet (and husband) are happy that Fleet Feet told me I need neutral and I have switched to New Balance 880 and they are ($100).
I made that Chili recipe this weekend for family after seeing it on an previous blog YUM!
Janae
I am so glad that your friend was able to defer it for next year. I was actually wondering that same thing…how many people deferred? If you find out let me know. Yay for cheaper shoes:)
Katie
I heard that 16% of the runners deferred …
Janae
Thanks Katie for letting me know, I have been wondering about that!
Sneakers2Sandals
so happy bean town marathon is here! can’t wait to watch it :) thanks for sharing the link!
Janae
You are welcome. Enjoy every second of it!
Sarah
Love the Boston shirt :) You will get there and yr lil babe will be greeting you at the finish line!
I would spend 120-150 tops, but I always buy the same shoes over and over. Why change what works I guess?
I am obsessed with Laughing cow. I toast a piece of bread, smear it with laughing cow and then top with avocado. Salt and Peppa to taste. It is oh so good!
Dream race would have to be the marathon in Africa that is basically like you are on a safari. Awesome!
Janae
You are the best Sarah…thanks! Um…your laughing cow combo sounds absolutely perfect, I must try that. I want to do the safari marathon with you!
Jenn @ RunItMyWay
It pains me to spend $150 on a pair of running shoes, but I do it because I know it’s worth it for the amount of time I spend in them.
11 runners from my local run group are in Boston today- I’m so excited for them, though a little sad for them too… No one will likely be hitting their goals today, which is really sad because I know how hard some of them worked for new PBs. One of my friends has been trying to break 2:50 (he ran 2:51 in Boston last year) and he can DEFINITELY do it this year, he’s worked so hard.. it’s pretty upsetting to see something totally out of his control jeopardize it.
Janae
You are right…it is worth it to avoid injury and for how long we are in them. 11 from your group, that is awesome and you better let me know if your friend gets his PB.
Katie @ Peace Love & Oats
That was sweet of your dad! My dad only brings a bottle of water when he picks me up, despite the fact that I always spend the drive complaining about my hunger
Janae
HAHAAHA I think he finally learned and didn’t want to hear me whine about being hungry the whole time:) Have an amazing day Katie!
Kristen @ notsodomesticated
Your soup looks quite artistic … the chip makes ALL the difference!! ;)
Janae
I knew you would agree:)
Alyssa @ Life of bLyss
man.. If I was guaranteed awesome shoes, I’d probably drop $150 on ’em.
Janae
You are right, I think it is worth it if you know you are getting the best of the best. The things we do for running:)
Meredith
I have run Boston 4 times. It is my favorite race and I can’t wait to get back there and run it again.
Janae
4 times…that is so awesome Meredith! What year are you planning on going back?
Christina @ the athletarian
I’m working (boo) so I can’t watch Boston! My dream race would be DISNEY!!!!!!!! and NYC :) but only because I know I could never get into Boston! haha!
Janae
Why don’t they make today a world wide holiday for the marathon?!?! I want to run Disney with you someday!
Colleen
I will pay up to $150 for my shoes. I’m in them 5+ hours a day teaching aerobic and running that I def get my $ worth. Plus you really can’t put a price on healthy joints.
I have no desire to run marathons again since I’ve been doing adventure races. They are so much fun and harder (read:challenging)!
Janae
YES, you definitely need to invest in good shoes for the amount of time you are in them. I really want to try an adventure race, that sounds like blast!
Bethany
I have not run Boston, but living here I will someday. It is my dream race, maybe next year for charity. I will be at mile 13 for my friends that are running. We do it most years. If I had a bib and did all the training I would NOT defer due to weather and I hate the heat. You worked hard, have fun, slow down and enjoy the race.
Janae
I want to be there next year too. Have so much fun at mile 13, take lots of pictures and let me know how it goes!
Jamie @ Don't Forget the Cinnamon
Aww your dad is awesome!!!
I usually won’t spend over $100 on running shoes since I’ve been happy with pairs I’ve found for around $90. I look for a stability shoe that runs on the narrow side for my very narrow feet!
Lindsey
I have spent $160, and that was my max but the shoes were worth it and got me through marathon training pain free. I always go for fit first.
I might watch some of it, and I would LOVE to run it one day, not sure I am that speedy though!
I really want to run a race by the ocean – maybe one in Hawaii?!
I used to eat Laughing Cow cheese all the time on veggie sandwiches but have not bought in awhile, I saw a commercial for strawberry flavored so might need to try it.
Caitlin @ This Bride's Joyrides
I’m watching Boston today! Sadly I have to work, but my office is all glass and it’s right along the finish line — if I can’t get outside I can look out the windows on the street and watch the runners go by. I’m so excited for them!!! (Although nervous for them too, it’s going to get up to 90 degrees today!)
Heather @ Run Eat Play
I love laughing cow cheese! I just bought the garden veggie flavor. I put my on bagel thins with egg whites.
I am amazed by marathoners! My body was just not meant to run that far. Good luck, Boston Marathoners!
Britt @ Chicago Runner Girl
I spent $175 on a pair of Newtons last summer. I really like them and they actually lasted more miles then the normal shoe, but $175 for shoes is crazy.
I’m like you, waiting for my chance to hit the Boston course. I ran in 2008 but was severely injured and basically had to crawl across that finish line which has left me hungry for some Boston redemption. One day I’ll have another go at it.
mark matthews
As for Boston, I”m a twitter addict today, writing folks at Athletes Village and living a little vicariously. I wouldn’t believe anyone would choose to defer due to the heat, as race officials have offered, but I’ve seen runners drop to the ground from the heat as if shot in the head. At the end of Chicago three went down right around me. This is a bizarre and dangerous sport.
As for shoes, there has to be this “ahhhhhh” feeling that overcomes me, and not just that ‘this shoe could work’ but ‘this shoe was meant for me.’ I guess it’s like choosing a partner, except you don’t kick them to the curb after 600 miles.
Kari @ Running Ricig
I was so psyched that I just found my favorite running shoes for $60 online and bought two pairs immediately.
I’m totally watching Boston today!
Devon
AH THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR POSTING THAT LINK! I kept clicking on a live steam link on this website and it wasn’t working for me! I want sooo badly to be able to do the Boston Marathon one day…but I’ve got a really long way to go until I’m on that level!
Melissa @ Get Fit and Sweat Trying
Hey, thanks for posting the Boston Link! Man, it’s so inspiring!
Emily
What a conundrum for the Boston Marathon with the heat, especially since many folks have probably trained for years to qualify. Not to mention most folks have probably spent thousands of dollars in travel costs to get there, possibly from around the globe. It’s a really tough call, ugh.
I keep a hawkeye on online running shoe sales and therefore I don’t like to spend more than about $80 on my running shoes.
I have so many dream races but right now I’d say the Disney Marathon is my realistic dream, with a bunch of the European races being my unrealistic dreams. =)
Love Laughing Cows – when I have them in the fridge, I go through them like water. Usually I eat them on top of Triscuit crackers, but other times I’ll cook with them (e.g. add them to my tomato sauce to make it creamy, et al).
Ali Mc
I can’t wait till next year – when you run Boston ;)
I thought the race was yesterday like the silly newbie runner that I am :P LOSER.
I love cheese of any shape or form and I’ll eat it with pretty much anything – I want to try those shoes
Doug
H.R.G. — I handle the PR for On. Thanks for the kind words about the On Cloudsurfer. Glad you liked the feel. I wanted to clear up two comments in your review of the shoe (of course the Cons). The 2012 Cloudsurfer has added a honeycomb pattern on the clouds for better grip so slipping should not be an issue; the Cloudsurfer is now $129 (not $150). For more details check out http://www.on-running.com also feel free to LIKE us at Facebook.com/on-running — Good luck in Boston everyone.
Janae
OH AWESOME!! I will change both things right now! Have a great day Doug and I really appreciate it. I am on my way to LIKE on Facebook.
Theresa
woohoo, marathon monday…pretty excited for the participants of boston! i would say my dream race IS boston…but alas, i doubt i will ever be quick enough to qualify. close second would be to run nyc!
i dont think i would spend more then 150 on a pair of running shoes…usually i look to make sure they are cushiony and stable…not too rigid though (i hate that!)
i used to eat those laughing cow wedges all the time with wasa crackers…i havent had one in a while though, i need to bring them back into my life ;)
Yellow Haired Girl
That chili looks delicious! Just the fact that there is cream cheese in it makes me believe that it was incredible. Cream cheese just ups the awesome factor.
I’m thinking about all those marathoners today – especially with this heat. What an incredible milestone … I hope they all stay safe.
Janae
I totally agree with you and cream cheese…that stuff automatically makes everything delicious! I hear you, I really hope everyone is okay today!
Kelsey
I’m totes watching Boston while at work! Too exciting not too!
Janae
I know! They should make it a national holiday so that no one has to work and everyone can watch it. Have so much fun Kelsey!
Naomi M
One of my awesome professors was ranked F27 for the marathon but she decided not to run it last minute since a few years ago she almost died running Boston in the heat! Sad day huh?
Janae
WHAT?!?! That is scary but she is being smart. It is so sad to think about all the time and work that went into training though:(
Losing Lindy
Only 5 more weeks of school??
Janae
YEP, HALLELUJAH! I am counting down the hours:)
Shay @ Whine Less, Breathe More
I’ve only worn Asics. They are around $100. I tend to buy them online on sale, usually last year’s colors.
Laughing Cow is a staple for me. I like to divide the wedges into fourths and eat them on saltines. Sometimes I will have a wedge on toast with jelly.
Janae
You are brilliant….I will be trying both of your combos. I buy mine online too:)
Monica
Thanks for posting the link to Boston. This is the first year I’ve ever been excited to watch!
Michelle
I don’t like to spend more than $100 on running shoes but I will if they feel great. I love laughing cow cheese. I spread it on my apples for a yummy snack ;)
sally @ sally's baking addiction
i remember how upset you were last year about the Boston marathon! you WILL get there someday Janae! i know it :)
Andrea @ Andrea Out Loud!
love laughing cow cheese! I like the mozzarella tomato basil one on wheat thins!
and my coworker is actually gone part of the week because they drove up to boston ebcause her son is running it, he does every year! fun!
Shanna
I’m tracking my friend as he’s running boston right now! this is his third year, but the heat is definitely taking a tole on the runners – you can tell by the winning finishing times! I still have 4-6 weeks left in the foot boot because of my stress fracture, but tracking my friend as he runs reallyyyyyy makes me want to get out there! I’ll remember this when I’m trying to get up for pre-work early morning training runs :)
Annette@EnjoyYourHealthyLife
GOOD decision on eating dinner there :)
YES, GOOD luck on Boston to those runners. Yes, One day you will be there…and I might too. Hah.
Megan @ Run Like a Grl
My dream race is the NYC Marathon. As a NYer it has always been a goal of mine to run the city and cross all those bridges! I am hoping to run it in 2013 :)
I LOVE laughing cow cheese wedges, especially the blue cheese one (which actually tastes like blue cheese!). I put them on crackers or melba toast usually, with a tomato on top. Yum!
Tracy
Try laughing cow mixed in scrambled eggs…so good!
Kayla @ kpLovingit
laughing cow with those garlic bagel chips!!! AMAZING!
I’m sure the race would be better with your HRB cheering you on, anyway!
Sabrina @ Radioactive Runner
I love bright colored running shoes but the first thing I go for is comfort.
I know a few people running Boston… what an experience that would be!
natalie @ southern fit foodie
I am quite obsessed with Laughing Cow cheese wedges. I use the light swiss all the time in recipes and as snacks (with pretzel thins or fruit), and I use all the flavored ones as well. My new obsession is the cinnamon wedge! It tastes like cinnamon cheesecake, and is especially delicious mixed in with a sweet potato!
Chels R.
mmm laughing cow! How could anyone not love that stuff! I put it on everything, I even have a skinny mac n cheese recipe with LC in it!
Dream race is definitely Boston! Also would love to do Big Sur, it looks so beautiful!!!
Karla @ myhighonlife
Both my preferred shoes are $89-99 (Brooks Adrenaline & Asics 2170s) but I really want to try out some Mizunos.. which are way more expensive. I think for my next marathon training cycle this summer/fall I might try some out. I look for ones that fit my weird feeet.
I can only dream of running Boston…literally. I am one slow runner but who knows what could happen. Im still YOUNG. I don’t think I like the deferral.. it’s really going to botch up 2013’s registration.
Sooo many. Big Sur, Disney Marathon, CIM… the list goes on and on.
LOVE laughing cow. The sundried tomato/mozz and the chipotle one are my favorites. I like to put them on a whole wheat tortilla :)
CatieB
I watched the Boston Marathon! My boss was actually the commentator in the men’s lead van! pretty cool!
I would love to run Boston and Big Sur!
Erika@ You Just Did What
That food looks SO YUMMY!!
The most I spend on shoes is about $100 but I also wear inserts so that about another $50 or so, but I will spend the money to take care of my feet!!
I couldn’t watch the marathon. We had appointments and errands to run. I wish I could have, but my friend is there on the sidelines and taking pica for me to see!!
Julie
I love Laughing Cow Cheese wedges! Just spread some on toast…mmmm delicious! I also eat them on sandwiches, wraps, with pretzels or just straight up is always good too. :)
Deirdre @ Oh Well Whatever
You’re Dad is so sweet.
LOVE laughing cow. Spread it on tortillas for a breakfast burrito or cut into tiny bites for baby girl quesadillas.
My dream race, or perhaps more of a nightmare is Old Goats 50 mile….
Meghan Rene
Dads are the BEST!!!
I will pay $125 – MAX. I’m from Boston – never ran it but love the atmosphere around the race. I am far from every qualifying but it was my ultimate running goal (like others) to qualify (more for personal reasons). My family wants me to run the hometown with a charity – but I want to do it for me :)
Kaylie
My dream race would be Boston for sure!
I love laughing cow cheese with Milton’s garlic and herb crackers- check them out, they are delicious!
Here’s a link of a pic: http://www.miltonsbaking.com/product-detail/garlic-and-herb-multi-grain-baked-snack-crackers
They sell them in Cali at Sprout’s Mother’s and Vons. I’m not sure about Utah :/
Erin
I absolutely watched the race this morning (until I had to go to the doctor for my own femoral stress fracture follow up – boo) and I ran it in 2008!!! I was on a charity team – NOT a qualified runner. But, I lived in Boston for ten years and Marathon Monday is my favorite day of the year and I loved every minute of cheering so I really wanted to run it. I am so happy that I did and I cannot wait to hear about it when you finally get to do it!!! It’s one of my favorite days ever!!
Janae
ERIN!! How did your doctors appointment go? I am so sorry about your femoral stress fracture…it is so difficult! How about we both go do it next year:)
Stephanie
$100. Doesn’t seem like much in comparison to some prices out there. I run in Brooks Adrenalines and Brooks Ravennas.
I did watch it! My dad was running and claimed my bib for me so I can officially defer to next year!!!!!!!
Boston is my #1 dream race.
Beth U.
My top 2 dream races are NYC (which I get to run this year, can’t wait!) and Boston. I’m hoping to qualify for Boston in a few weeks at the Ft. Collins marathon, but I’ve had about 4 weeks off this training cycle due to some health issues. :(
I’m hoping all the time off gave my body a rest and I’ll come back stronger for it (at least that is what I tell myself when I get depressed about it).
Janae
You can do it!!! Please let me know how your marathon in ft Collins goes!
Alyssa @ Fit and Fun in Third
Haha that’s hilarious… my husband picked me up yesterday from the airport (after a trip home from Vegas) with coconut water and a chocolate covered pretzel! I’m not pregnant… but he knew I needed my snacks! :)
Kay
Yummmmm the chili and dessert look great!!
Amy
Just had laughing cow on my scrambled eggs today. So. Good. I’ve heard they made a strawberry kind which I am dying to get my hands on, but can’t find anywhere!
Ruth
So so sad we couldn’t run Boston together… Well there is always next year and you can just stay at our house and our kids can play together while we watch you run :) love the shirt!!!!
Andrea@pinkrunningkicks
My running shoes must have the color pink in them, “pinkrunningkicks” YES!
I decided with the help of a coworker that I must compete in a TRIATHLON at some point in my life.
I love laughing cow cheese with wheat thins and grapes.
Lauren
Janae! I cannot wait for the day you run Boston. You will absolutely kill it regardless of conditions. That is the truth.
Lara
Just catching up on my blogs after being gone. I ran Boston and it was pretty awesome, but SO HOT. I’m from AZ and it was still hot for me! I was 30-40 min slower than I was planning, but I had a great time playing in the sprinklers, eating Twizzlers, and high-fiving the kiddos. The crowd support was amazing, it’s really what makes the race. I had been injured but was on the mend, and after spending all that money on flights and hotel, there was no way I’d take the deferral! I don’t think I’ll be back next year, but I’ll be back another time when the weather is better!
Rachele
Aw, this was an incredibly good post. Taking the time and actual effort to generate a very good article… but what can I say… I hesitate a whole lot and don’t seem to get nearly anything
done.