Smuttynose Half Marathon Recap {2016}
November 12, 2016
Hi guys! Remember me? As I was sitting here contemplating half marathon no. 9 TOMORROW, I realized I never posted a recap of the Smuttynose Half Marathon last month! Of course, now that 4+ weeks have gone by, my memory is a little foggy, but I’ll give it my best […]
A Marco Island Girls Getaway
October 9, 2016
Hello, friends! Long time, no talk. Yes, I am temporarily emerging from my self-imposed sabbatical…how could I not when I have what I have what I consider to be a very important PSA for you all (wink, wink). So as those of you who follow me on social media know, […]
Back-to-School Lunch Tips with Stonyfield + Justin’s
August 25, 2016
Can you believe the summer is almost over? As most of you know, I took a leave of absence of sorts this summer as I try to figure out the future Keeping Mommy Sane goes from here. I’m still gnawing on things a bit, and have some stuff I want […]
A Love Letter to LEGO
August 22, 2016
Note: This post was originally published in October 2012. Dear LEGO: I am writing this on behalf of my son, who is truly your biggest fan. Seriously. He really is. It’s funny, he was never really into Duplos and was only mildly interested in the larger Lego blocks (aside from […]
My Top 10 “Beverly Hills, 90210” Episodes
August 13, 2016
This post was originally published in September 2013. I know yesterday’s post was sad and deep and a little heavy. To lighten the mood a bit, I thought a silly – and, if you ask me, long overdue – post was due. So here it is. Confession: I am a […]
Forget Being a Supermom: These Are The 10 Superpowers I Wish I Had
August 3, 2016
Note: This post was originally published in November 2013. Did you know the phrase “supermom” actually has a definition in the Merriam-Webster dictionary? su·per·mom noun \ˈsü-pər-ˌmäm\ : a woman who raises a child and takes care of a home while also having a full-time job Really? While I guess the description […]
10 Things That Send Me Straight to Crazytown
July 18, 2016
This post was originally published in July 2016. This ridiculous heat wave is making me super cranky. And grumpy. And irritable. So rather than fight my inner crab, I have decided to embrace it! That’s why today I’m sharing my list of the 10 things (besides 95 degree weather and 100% […]
Why We Love Story Land
July 8, 2016
Note: This post was originally published on August 8, 2013. Like most kids who grew up in New England, my family and I went to Story Land in Glen, N.H. It’s like a childhood rite of passage in our area. My little sister and I rode on tea cups and […]
It’s My Summer Vacation, Too
June 22, 2016
Today is the first day of summer vacation for Buddy…and for me, too. No, I haven’t given up my day job. The fact is that I’ve decided to take a blogging vacation this summer. Don’t get me wrong; I love this blog. I love having a creative outlet. And I am […]
Sundresses, Smoothies and Summer Cravings {prAna Giveaway}
June 8, 2016
Disclaimer: As a Stonyfield Yo-Getter, I received free products from Stonyfield and prAna in exchange for my review. All opinions expressed here are my own. Ice cream cones. The smell of sunscreen. Cookouts. Fireworks. S’mores. Salty air. I begin to crave all of these things once the calendar flips over to June […]
A Letter to my Daughter on Her 5th Birthday
June 7, 2016
Dear Mimi, Today you are five years old. Five. One whole hand, you like to say. In the blink of an eye, you have gone from a sweet, good-natured baby to a cuddly and precocious toddler to an inquisitive and headstrong preschooler to an increasingly adventurous — and independent — […]
Race Recap: Boston’s Run to Remember Half Marathon
June 1, 2016
On Sunday, I ran my seventh half marathon, and my third Boston’s Run to Remember race. It wasn’t my best time, nor was it my worst. Yet in so many ways, this was such a totally different race experience for me. I know I’ve said in the past in the […]
Crossing an Item off the Bucket List
May 24, 2016
When we were in Florida last month, I got to fulfill a dream nearly 30 years in the making — and cross an item off the top of my bucket list. I swam with dolphins. My dolphin experience was a 40th birthday present from my parents, who heard me go on […]
10 Things We Loved About The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
May 9, 2016
Ever have those parenting moments when you think, Hey, I’m doing something right? That happened a few months ago when Buddy started reading the Harry Potter series. I’ve been waiting a long time for this 😄📖 #harrypotter A photo posted by Jessica (@sanemommy) on Jan 9, 2016 at 9:45am PST […]
The Running Wars: Me vs. My Body
May 1, 2016
Here we go again. Another battle in The Running Wars. In one corner, we have me and my love for running, my desire to stick with my training plan and run a strong race next month, and my newfound joy at having running friends to log miles with. In the […]
Netflix Siblings Playlists
April 30, 2016
One of the most surprising (and gratifying) things about vacation was watching Buddy and Mimi play togehter. Sure, they also pushed each other’s buttons, ut I think (for the most part) they enjoyed each other’s company while we were away. Okay, maybe some of that had to do with the […]
40 Things I Can Do at 40
April 28, 2016
It’s official. I have turned 40. The big 4-0. Middle-aged. Over the hill. The 40-49 age group in road races. Kinda crazy. When I was younger, I thought 40 sounded so old. That it meant wearing mom jeans and white Reebok sneakers and sporting a sensible short haircut while I got ready for my […]
Back to Reality
April 25, 2016
Ahhh. Back to reality. Sniff, sniff. We had the most amazing, incredible time in Florida on vacation. It’s funny how you can get used to seeing palm trees and turquoise water and lounging iguanas out your window everyday. I have so many reviews and recaps and tips to share with […]
A Disney World Round-Up
April 12, 2016
While we’re not visiting the Most Magical Place on Earth during our Florida vacation, we did spend a week at Walt Disney World back in 2013 and it was incredible. I know so much about the Disney experience has changed since then (wristbands, booking Fast Passes online, etc.) and, hello, […]
What’s on My Florida Packing List
April 7, 2016
In case you missed the announcement on my Facebook page on Friday, we’re headed to Florida in one week! We surprised the kids with the trip (which has been in the works since the fall) with a rather anticlimactic April Fool’s Day set up. They figured out we weren’t joking […]
Boston Red Sox Are Calling All Kids (Again!)
April 4, 2016
Play ball! Yesterday officially kicked off the 2016 Major League Baseball Season. I can’t believe it’s that time of year again. I mean, seriously, how is it suddenly April?! And is it really snowing today?! And with the start of the season comes another opportunity for your kids (age 14 […]
Heartbroken
March 31, 2016
I can’t believe I’m writing this post. I mean, I knew this is something I’d have to write about someday. But “someday”…well, that’s a pretty obscure concept, isn’t it? Someday isn’t a real day. Someday isn’t actually today. Or yesterday. Or a few days ago. Because instead of someday, we […]
Kicking Off Half Marathon Training
March 22, 2016
Nothing gets your butt back in gear after a fabulous weekend away with the girls than kicking off your half marathon training. (Did you catch our adventures on Instagram and Facebook? We had such an amazing, but indulgent, time). Yep, it’s that time again. Boston’s Run to Remember is coming up […]
My Kiddo’s New PR {Special Guest Post}
March 17, 2016
Happy St. Patrick’s Day, friends! On Saturday, Buddy and I ran our second 5K together (here’s the recap of the first race). I was planning to write a recap when I thought, Why not let him tell you himself how the race went? And so I’m excited to introduce my 9-year-old […]
30 Random Thoughts That Keep Me Up At Night
March 15, 2016
Ever go through periods when it’s like your brain just won’t shut off at nighttime and you find it impossible to stay asleep? And you find yourself going off from one random thought to another? C’mon, I know I’m not the only one. Here’s an example of the random thoughts […]
Kindergarten Registration
February 29, 2016
Somehow, in the blink of an eye, my Mimi is registered for kindergarten. I won’t lie: part of me is jumping up and down with joy over the idea of NO MORE DAY CARE PAYMENTS. Seriously. Sorry for the all caps, but trust me, they’re sooooo necessary here. We’ve been […]
What “Family Night In” is Really Like #StreamTeam
February 26, 2016
I like “family night in” at our house. I’d like to tell you that it usually involves all of us cuddled under the blankets together, a roaring fire before us in the fireplace, bowls of organic popcorn made with coconut oil on our laps as we laugh and giggle as the […]
Five for Friday: My Fave Fashion Bloggers
February 19, 2016
So it’s been about, oh, nearly nine months since my last Five for Friday post. Yikes. I’m going to try and get back to doing this a little more regularly (although maybe not every week) and I thought I’d kick it back off by giving some love to five of my […]
More Family Fun at Smugglers’ Notch
February 11, 2016
If you read Monday’s post, then you know all about Smugglers’ Notch’s Ski Sports University (love) and the variety of winter and family activities that they offer and, hello, the spa services available. But there was so much more that made our family ski weekend such a success… and a […]
Family Ski Weekend at Smugglers’ Notch Resort
February 8, 2016
When I heard Smugglers’ Notch in Vermont was rated the top kid-friendly resort in the East by Ski Magazine, I don’t think I really knew what that meant until we arrived for our ski weekend a few weeks ago. Because, as I learned, Smuggs’ truly lives up to their top kid-friendly […]
Win a Free Entry to the Newport 10 Miler
February 4, 2016
Okay, guys, I’m pretty excited about this! I’ve run the Newport 10 Miler in Newport, RI the last two years and it has become one of my favorite races. (Check out my 2014 and 2015 recaps.) Why do I love it? Well, for starters, there are the ocean views. And […]
5 Shows I’d Like Netflix to Reboot #StreamTeam
January 31, 2016
So while I was at Smugglers’ Notch last weekend, this happened. There aren’t enough happy emojis to express my excitement about this! #gilmoregirls ・・・ From Stars Hollow to Hartford to New Haven to Netflix. Welcome back, girls. An all new season of Gilmore Girls coming to Netflix in 2016. A […]
Currently… {1.28.16}
January 28, 2016
I have a confession to make: I have had the worst case of writer’s block this month. As you may have noticed from the lack of posts in January. I’m not sure what’s at the root of it. A huge project at work that I’ve been stressing about? The cold, […]
When I Grow Up (Part 2)
January 20, 2016
Ever watch your child do something and suddenly something clicks and you feel like you’re getting a glimpse of what he or she might be when they’re all grown up? It happened a few years ago (see the first installment of When I Grow Up, which I published two years […]
What’s On my 2016 Racing Radar
January 12, 2016
So I’m not gonna lie to you guys…I’ve been thinking about my 2016 race schedule since the fall. Once I couldn’t run (whether it was due to injury or being sick, or both) I became fixated on both redemption and starting anew. Not that I had to redeem myself from […]
Tips for Introducing Your Preschooler to Ski Sports
January 7, 2016
While I may not be a skiier due to nagging knee injuries, I love “going skiing” for the weekend. It’s probably the only time I ever really like the snow. There’s just something about the vibe of a ski weekend…the cold air and flushed cheeks, the fresh air, the cross-country skiing […]
This Year I Will…
January 3, 2016
Happy 2016! I love that a new year feels like a blank slate, a new beginning. A fresh start. An opportunity for new dreams, new roads to explore. Now I’m a pretty goal-oriented gal, but I’m not a fan of “New Year’s Resolutions” … sounds so rigid and formal, eh? […]
My Year in Running {2015}
December 29, 2015
Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday! Ours was hectic and crazy and fun, but I have to admit I’m glad it’s over and now I can enjoy my fabulous week at home. Plus all the cookies and wine and treats…oy. Anyway, here’s the scoop. Normally I loved doing these little […]
A Christmas Survey (and Some Netflix Holiday Picks)
December 21, 2015
This has been a strange Christmas season for those of us in New England. With temps in the 50s, and my winter coat collecting dust in the closet, it feels like we should be preparing for Halloween. But here we are, just a few days to go until the big […]
The Real Story Behind the Holiday Cards
December 16, 2015
I LOVE holiday card season. There’s something about pulling up to the mailbox in December, eagerly anticipating what might be inside. About bringing the stack of envelopes inside the house and opening them one by one. About standing in my kitchen, looking at the smiling faces of friends and loved ones both […]
A Review of The Boston Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” {2015}
December 9, 2015
And the holiday season can officially begin. Last Sunday, Mimi and I headed into the city for The Boston Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker.” This is my third time seeing the show in recent years (experiences I’ve written about here on the blog before) and it has slowly become part […]
Lands’ End Holiday Pop-Up Shop “Lands” in Boston
December 7, 2015
Well, friends, I’ve had my first pop-up shop experience. And I am smitten. The folks with Lands’ End had reached out to let me know the company was setting up their first-ever holiday pop-shop — and only one of two in the country — in the Copley Place Mall in Boston, […]
Our Acts of Kindness Christmas Countdown Jar
December 4, 2015
Earlier this week, I posted a photo on Instagram and my Facebook page with our Acts of Kindness Christmas Countdown Jar, and WOW, the response has been tremendous! So much so that I decided to share more about it here for those who may be interested in doing a similar activity […]
Celebrating Crohn’s and Colitis Week
December 2, 2015
I don’t write about my experience with ulcerative colitis here very often because, let’s face it, who really wants to read about digestive issues? And the truth is that while I have been living with this disease (ulcerative colitis is the result of an abnormal response by the body’s immune system; […]
Three Words Per Picture {Thanksgiving in PA}
November 30, 2015
Hi friends! Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend. We made our usual trek to Pennsylvania to spend the holidays with my in-laws and it was a fun and exciting jam-packed five days that included my last run before taking my podiatrist-mandated running break (a 25:45 5K, good enough […]
Bedtime Stallers
November 29, 2015
Like all kids, my two are pros when it comes to bedtime stalling. Each has their own strategy. Buddy tries to plead his case to read “one more book,” even playing the whole “I have to read for school!” card. Mimi, on the other hand, plays on the heartstrings, asking […]
A Runner Gives Thanks
November 25, 2015
So aside from tomorrow’s Turkey Trot 5K, which my podiatrist gave me the green light to run, I’ve officialy been sidelined for four weeks with bursitis of the heel, some plantar fasciitis and possible neuritis. I can take spin and barre class, but no high impact activity like running until […]
My Perfect Fall Breakfast
November 23, 2015
Our mornings are generally pretty chaotic, so most of the time breakfast for me is either (a)a smoothie or frozen waffles in the car on my commute, or (b) yogurt or oatmeal at work once I’m settled at my desk. But I’m not gonna lie. It can get pretty boring. […]
I’m Running for the Alzheimer’s Association!
November 16, 2015
This will only be the second time in 39 years that I will celebrate Christmas without my grandfather. With the exception of the one Christmas that we spent in Pennsylvania with my in-laws, I have always had Christmas dinner at my grandparents’ house. As I wrote in my post right […]
The Red Sweatpants
November 12, 2015
They were an innocent purchase. Buddy has always been infatuated with the color red. He is instinctively drawn to the color. Clothes, toys, sports equipment, you name it. If it comes in red, he has to have it. Now that he’s nine and wearing clothes in the regular boys department, […]
A Soccer Mom’s Perfect Pairing {prAna Giveaway}
November 9, 2015
Saturdays in our house during the fall are insane. Because of our work schedules, we have to cram the kids’ activities into the weekends, which has somehow led to both kids having two activities each in the fall: soccer and karate for Buddy, and soccer and gymnastics for Mimi. I […]
Halloween Fun and a Racing First
November 3, 2015
A few months ago, well before I was diagnosed with pneumonia, I had signed up for a 5K in my town Halloween morning to benefit the local football and cheerleading group. I figured running a race would give me license to indulge in a bit of candy and adult beverages later […]
Friday Favorites {10.30.15}
October 29, 2015
I haven’t done one of these Friday Favorites round-ups in awhile, so I figured it was time to share some of the things I’ve been loving lately. Noodles & Company A few weeks ago, I was invited for dinner at Noodles & Company to check out their new menu and kids options. […]
5 Signs You Have a Netflix Addiction
October 29, 2015
It’s official. I have a Netflix addiction. Well, make that a Scandal addiction. I’ve heard friends talk about how they’re “bingeing” on shows like House of Cards or Downton Abbey but I never quite got it. Until now. I discovered Scandal a few weeks ago, and I am hooked. Line, […]
Our NYC Birthday Adventures
October 27, 2015
Another birthday for Buddy, another weekend in New York City. Although if you follow me on social media, you probably figured that out by now. In what has become our birthday tradition for Buddy (and eventually for Mimi), we opted for another birthday “experience” rather than a thing, because really, […]
I Should Be Blogging…
October 22, 2015
I should be blogging, but I’m not. Instead, I’m binge watching “Scandal” on Netflix. This is the first show to pique my interest since “Parenthood,” and I’m only at the end of season two (so no spoilers, please!). Oh, how I’m coveting Olivia Pope’s wardrobe! And reliving my own White […]
Runners Make the Worst Patients
October 16, 2015
As runners we tend to stubbornly run through the pain. Run through the sniffles and the fevers and the runny noses. Because running is what we do. We have training plans to follow and races on the schedule. We don’t want to let that little cold or sore muscle slow […]
Balega Socks Giveaway!
October 14, 2015
As you guys know, I’m a total creature of habit when it comes to my running gear. Well, actually, when it comes to anything involving running. From my shoes to my clothes to my fueling to my pre-race rituals, I simply can’t help it. I just like to stick with […]
Smuttynose Rockfest Half Marathon Recap {2015}
October 9, 2015
I thought long and hard about titles for this particular blog post. In fact, I even came up with some alternatives. Like, “Running a Personal Best With a Chest Infection”. Or, “The Heartbreak of Missing a Time Goal by 5 Seconds.” Or, “Flat Course + Race Fleece Instead of Yet Another […]
Making First Impressions at Work with Listerine
October 8, 2015
This is a sponsored post. I received LISTERINE® Brand products from Johnson & Johnson Consumer, Inc. as part of my participation in this project. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are my own. One thing I love about my office is the bowl of mints on the receptionist’s desk. Every time […]
ZOOMA Cape Cod 10K Recap
September 30, 2015
Wow, it’s been nearly three months since I wrote my last race recap! I mean, I’m happy with my decision to lay low this summer when it came to racing, but part of me definitely missed competing. That’s why it was kind of hard to jump back into racing with a race […]
I Heart Fall Running
September 24, 2015
There’s a chill in the air. Candy corn is everywhere. I’m prepping to stock up on my mums. And I have a race, like, every weekend. Yep, it must be fall. ‘Tis the season of pumpkin everything (beer! lattes!), Canadian Thanksgiving, football, apple picking, hoodies, jeans and boots… …and — my […]
Happy 9th Birthday, Buddy
September 21, 2015
Dear Buddy, And here we are. One year away from double-digits. NINE. Oh my. Nine is kind of a strange age, huh? There are all the signs of impending tweenhood – the attitude, the better understanding of the world around you, the way you start showing off whenever girls are […]
What’s on my Netflix Shelfie List? #StreamTeam
September 20, 2015
You know all those shows that you’ve been dying to catch-up on or start on Netflix? There’s a word for that now. Shelfie. Yup, that’s a word now. I recently knocked one item off my Netflix Shelfie list — Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp. So. Freaking. Awesome. […]
Saying Goodbye
September 15, 2015
I’ve been trying to write this blog post for nearly a week now. I start, then stop. Start, then stop. Because, for one of the first times in my life, I’m struggling to find the right words. So I’m just going to write what I feel. And hit publish before […]
Update on Half Marathon Training (and a $25 Dunkin’ Donuts Giveaway!)
September 7, 2015
Half marathon number 6 — the Smuttynose Rockfest — is officially four weeks away. Cue the nerves and excitement. I will say training has been going pretty well so far. I’ve been averaging around 20-22 miles per week, and am up to 12 miles on my long run. I am […]
Let’s Catch Up: KIDZ BOP, Portland & More
September 4, 2015
Happy Friday! Who’s excited for Labor Day weekend? I know I am! After this whirlwind of a week, I cannot wait for three days of relaxing family time. I’ve been a little MIA this week, so I figure it was time to catch up on a few things… KIDZ BOP […]
Back to School Musings
August 31, 2015
Today is Buddy’s first day of third grade. And as I wake up this morning in Portland, Oregon, I am missing it. In fact, given the time zone difference, I’ve already missed that moment of him boarding the bus on his way to third grade. I haven’t experienced one of […]
It’s My Third Birthday
August 28, 2015
Has it really been three years (as of tomorrow) since I fretted and sweated about hitting the “publish” button on my first (and very cringeworthy) blog post? It seems like yesterday. And now here I am, about to publish blog post no. 462. Now that puts it into perspective. Like a […]
Our First Visit to Great Wolf Lodge {Review}
August 26, 2015
Last weekend, we surprised the kids with an overnight to Great Wolf Lodge in Fitchburg, Mass. It was pretty funny, actually. Buddy — who has been asking to go to Great Wolf for ages now — had fallen asleep on the 50 minute drive (we told the kids we were […]
The Final Countdown #StreamTeam
August 24, 2015
And here we are. One week until the first day of school. Honestly? Buddy NEEDS school. It happens every year during that last week of summer vacation. And it’s not because he doesn’t like school, because he does. Who knows, maybe it’s the culmination of 10 weeks of an upended […]
Friday Favorites {8.21.15}
August 21, 2015
Happy Friday, friends! Who else is as excited for the weekend as I am? We’re surprising the kiddos with a trip to Great Wolf Lodge tomorrow (sshhhh!) — our first time there! (Recap and review to come, of course.) And then I am taking the beginning of next week off […]
I Joined a Local Running Club!
August 18, 2015
So after a year or so or total Internet stalking, I’ve gone and done it. I joined a local running group. I know this isn’t a big deal for many runners out there, especially many of my fellow running bloggers, but I’ve had cold feet for awhile now. While the […]
A to Z Survey
August 12, 2015
You guys know my love of all things lists and surveys. I’m not shy about it. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I find them entertaining, fun to read and even more fun to write! I saw this A to Z survey recently on a few different […]
Share a Haircut with a Child in Need
August 7, 2015
My back-to-school checklist for Buddy usually looks something like this: New sneakers (since he’s either outgrown or trashed his current ones) Check on status of lunchbox and backpack. Are they disgusting from camp? Do we need new ones? Can I squeak by with them for one more year? Should I […]
A Day in the Life
August 5, 2015
Nearly three years ago, when I was a brand new blogger, I wrote a “Day in the Life” post about my life as a busy working mom. While some things haven’t changed (still busy, still a mom, still working), many things have. At that time, Buddy had just started kindergarten. […]
Back to School with OshKosh B’gosh
August 2, 2015
I participated in a Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for OshKosh B’gosh. I received a promotional item to thank me for my participation. Happy August, friends! I cannot believe the kids head back to school in less than a month. Seriously, I can’t wrap my brain around it. […]
Kicking Off Half Marathon Training
July 30, 2015
Here we go again! This week I am kicking off training for my sixth half marathon, the Smuttynose Rockfest in New Hampshire in October, which I’m running with Dr. G. and two of our friends. Six! I can’t believe it. It’s kind of surreal. I went from being someone whose […]
The Dragons Are Coming (to Netflix) #StreamTeam
July 28, 2015
With a nearly 5 year age gap, it can be reeeeaalllly challenging finding a TV show or movie that is appropriate for an almost-9-year-old boy and a 4-year-old girl. It’s either “too babyish” or “too advanced” or “too much a ‘boy show’” or “too much a ‘girl show’”. You get […]
Five for Friday {7.24.15}
July 24, 2015
I survived the first week of what my colleagues and I call “re-entry” — that painful first week back to reality after vacation. Mercifully, it flew by, even though I’ve been playing the “What was I doing last Tuesday?” game each day. We had a marvelous time, but rather […]
Beach Reads
July 22, 2015
Sure, one of the highlights of my Cape Cod vacation was spending quality time with my family, but coming in a close second? I read two full, hardcover (and two paperback) books on vacation!!! (Yes, this requires three exclamation points). Instead of listening to audiobooks as I navigate traffic on […]
Running Shoe Review: Mizuno Wave Enigma 5
July 20, 2015
Runner’s World connected me with Mizuno, who provided me with a pair of Mizuno Enigma 5 shoes to test free of charge. I also received additional compensation in exchange for testing, talking about and reviewing the shoes. Although this post is sponsored, all opinions are my own. Know how sometimes fate […]
I Think I Found My New Favorite Headphones
July 19, 2015
I am definitely a runner who needs her music. While I totally respect (and am in awe of) those runners who are content and comfortable with their own thoughts as they log their miles…I am not one of them. Music helps distract me, helps entertain me, and stops me from […]
An Apology Letter to My Feet
July 16, 2015
Dear Feet, Remember that time when a strange man up to me one summer day, when I was walking around Boston with my girlfriends, and said, “You have beautiful feet.” Okay, in hindsight, it was pretty creepy and maybe a little gross — particularly since I was 16 at the […]
Tips For When Your Credit Card Has Been Compromised
July 14, 2015
Twice, in the last six months, I’ve received the dreaded notification: We continuously monitor ATM, debit and credit card transactions to look for out-of-pattern activity that might be potential fraud, as well as information from outside companies about account compromises at undisclosed merchants or service providers. Your card was part […]
Sailing Away on Boston’s Classic Harbor Line
July 8, 2015
Being a good New England girl, I truly love being on the water. The beach, boats, vacationing on the Cape, sipping a cocktail on an oceanside deck…ahh, now you’re speaking my language. So you’ll understand why the idea of spending two hours on a sailboat with my family, cruising around […]
Fun Facts Friday {7.3.15}
July 3, 2015
1. This week Buddy started camp at the local YMCA…back to the days of nasty backpacks, wet towels and clothes, smelly feet, and one dirt-covered boy. (Seriously, what is in that dirt?! I swear, it does not come out and leaves a lovely but stubborn ring in the bathtub when […]
11 Years With My New Knee
July 1, 2015
It was 11 years ago this week that I blew out my ACL playing softball. Back then, Dr. G. and I had joined a beer league for 20-somethings down in Baltimore. And I loved it. It was a nice way for Dr. G. and I to meet new people in our […]
Netflix Must-Watch Throwbacks #StreamTeam
June 29, 2015
How does that saying go? “Everything old is new again?” As a child of the ’80s, I have seen this happening firsthand with my kids. First, the toys I loved as a little girl (Care Bears, Strawberry Shortcake, My Little Pony) are back…and more popular than ever. Now, the same […]
Farewell, Second Grade
June 23, 2015
In 24 hours, Buddy will be done with second grade. Second grade. Wow. I mean, I remember parts of second grade more than 30 years later. When I close my eyes, I can still picture that classroom, with desks arranged in groups of four. I remember the mean boy who […]
Finding Summer Balance + A Balance Bar Giveaway!
June 22, 2015
It’s officially summer! Yahoo! Cape Cod, here we come in a few weeks! (Although here’s hoping we get some honest-to-goodness beach weather…it’s been so cool and non-summery lately!). Seriously, though, I have been looking forward to our vacation for months now, to seven days of sleeping in (or sleeping as […]
Opposites
June 17, 2015
So you guys know I love lists and surveys, right? Truthfully, they’re some of my favorite posts to write–and read. They’re fun, snappier, sillier, and provide the opportunity to be a little wittier than I am in some of my more “serious” narrative or diary-like posts. The other day I was […]
2015 Newport 10 Miler: Race Recap
June 11, 2015
On Sunday, I ran my second Newport 10 Miler. This was my favorite–and strongest– race last year. Gorgeous views, awesome after party, challenging but doable course. I remember how thrilled I was to finish in 1:27–more like my 10K pace than my half marathon pace. So it was kind of […]
A Letter to Mimi on her 4th Birthday
June 7, 2015
Dear Mimi: It seems like such a cliche, but it’s true: These past four years have flown by. Actually, a blur would be more accurate. One minute, you were curled in my arms, this sleepy, sweet, pink little bundle. The next, you were singing along to Taylor Swift and talking […]
Happy National Running Day!
June 3, 2015
Happy National Running Day! In honor of the occasion, I am participating in an interview and link-up with some of my fellow Sweat Pink ambassadors (thanks for organizing, Kristen!). Here we go: Why do you run? For my physical and mental well-being. To set a good example for my kids […]
I Survived My First Trail Race
June 2, 2015
I know this recap is a bit overdue, but here it is: On Memorial Day, I ran my first ever trail race, the Powisett Farm Trail Run, a 6.1 trek through the trails of Powisset Farm and neighboring Noanet Woodlands, about 20 miles outside Boston. And I survived. Although I will […]
Family is Everything #StreamTeam
May 31, 2015
Yep, you read the time stamp right. This is a Sunday night post. I meant to write sooner but this was such a whirlwind weekend and before I knew it, it was Sunday night. So here I am. The highlight of the weekend was Dr. G and I heading into […]
(Still) Trying to Accept my Runner’s Body
May 28, 2015
I know I owe you guys a recap of my first trail race, which was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done (check that one off the bucket list!). But in the meantime, I received my official race photos. And I cringed. Rather than feeling pride at the fact […]
My Working Motherhood Podcast Interview
May 26, 2015
Happy Tuesday! Hope you all enjoyed the Memorial Day weekend! I would say the highlight of my weekend was surviving my first trail race yesterday (recap to come this week), but I also have some exciting news to share … Okay, I know I don’t talk about the specifics of […]
Currently {5.21.15}
May 21, 2015
I haven’t done of these “Currently…” posts since before the holidays, so I figured it was time for an update! Feel free to play along in the comments section. Currently Reading: I am sort of going through a Liane Moriarty obsession right now. After reading (well, listening) to Big, Little Lies […]
Cruisin’ Around Boston Harbor
May 18, 2015
Happy Monday! Can you believe Memorial Day — the unofficial start to summer, and the date of my first trail race (!) — is one week from today? Seriously, what the heck happened to spring? Maybe it was our brutal winter, but I feel like we leapfrogged right from winter […]
My No-Strings-Attached 21 Day Fix Experience
May 14, 2015
So I bit the bullet last month, jumped on the Beachbody bandwagon, and signed up for the 21 Day Fix. I was feeling bloated and sluggish and blahhh after a long winter hunkered down at home in a vitamin D-deprived fog, from which I emerged about 5 very stubborn pounds […]
What I’m Thankful for this Mother’s Day
May 8, 2015
In our family, Mother’s Day falls at the end of what is a string of continuous holidays and birthdays and celebrations — and is often trumped by my wedding anniversary, which usually falls on the same weekend. I get (and send) cards each year, and am often treated to a yummy […]
My First 5 Mile Race
May 4, 2015
I’m just going to come out and say it. Five miles is a weird distance. Not quite a speedy 5K, nor the endurance tester of a 10K, this somewhere-in-the-middle distance really threw me for a loop. I had no clue how to approach it. But I do love a challenge, so […]
Just Add Cooking Review + Giveaway
May 1, 2015
Remember when I said I had TWO giveaways for you this week? This one is a little different, but just as fantastic … and also with a Mother’s Day focus. Oh, and it involves food. I have been such a slacker with my meal planning lately. First I was following […]
Red Sox Girls of Summer Giveaway ($200 value!)
April 29, 2015
I told you guys I had a sweet giveaway for you! If you haven’t heard, the Boston Red Sox are hosting an exclusive “Girls of Summer” night at Fenway Park on Wednesday, May 6. Actually, it’s an interactive, all-day sort of thing. Think clinics with coaches, Q&A with players, a […]
James Joyce Ramble Recap (and Happy Birthday to Me)
April 28, 2015
Honestly, this is the truth. The idea of racing in a brand new age group next year is pretty scary…the 40-49 group for women is competitive in nearly every race I’ve ever been in. And there’s a good chance my 40th birthday will coincide with the James Joyce Ramble in […]
Liar, Liar, Pants on Fire #StreamTeam
April 27, 2015
Oh, Mimi. My imaginative, tall-tale-telling girl. You are going to give me more gray hair, aren’t you? On Saturday morning, she informed me (verbatim), “Last night I sneaked and stole your car and picked up Alexandra and we drove to Boston.” Say whaaaaaat? Aren’t you 3 freaking years old?? Don’t […]
5 for Friday: Ottawa Edition
April 24, 2015
This week FLEW by! It’s already been a week since we were crammed into the car for our 7+ hour trek to Ottawa, Canada to visit family members. Gotta love a family road trip, eh? I love visiting Ottawa. It’s got such a laid back vibe, especially for a capital […]
My Toyota Sienna Experience #SiennaSundayFunday
April 23, 2015
I’ve never considered myself a “minivan” type. Even after having two kids, I scoffed at minivans, saying I could never see myself behind the wheel of one, that driving one would cement my status as a full-on soccer mom. And then the team at Toyota USA graciously offered to let […]
Five for Friday {4.17.15}
April 17, 2015
Happy Friday! We are literally on the road, heading up north to Canada for what is a long weekend for us Massachusetts folk. Time to bust out my loonies and toonies and crack open a bottle of Labatt’s. Seriously, though, I love visiting our Canadian relatives in Ottawa. Mimi was […]
5 Ways Running Has Changed Me
April 15, 2015
One thing I love about running is how it never fails to surprise me. I was not supposed to have a good run last Saturday. I was battling a nasty head cold and there was a wind advisory all day. So I had no expectations, just told myself to run […]
Busy is a Four-Letter Word
April 9, 2015
Sorry my posting has been sporadic lately. I’ve been busy. There’s that four-letter word. BUSY. When did “busy” become our go-to adjective, a way to describe our weekend or state of being, akin to “great” and “excellent” and “fun” and even the generic “fine”? Do you how many times over […]
5 for Friday {4.3.15}
April 3, 2015
Happy Friday! I don’t know about you, but I’m soooo ready for the weekend, especially now that I’ve been sidelined by a nasty head cold. Blecccch. Truthfully, we’ve been very fortunate this long, cold winter to have avoided the awful stomach flus and other nasties that have been going around. […]
A Review of Running Strong (And Updates on My Own Running Injury)
April 2, 2015
How this for ironic? I received a copy of Dr. Jordan Metzl’s Running Strong to review about a week or two before I finally succumbed and saw a podiatrist for the pain I often feel in the ball of my foot whenever I run more than 3-4 miles. (Good news […]
New From Stonyfield: Greek Yogurt With Chia
March 31, 2015
Chia, chia, chia. The seeds once associated with a cheesy infomercial product (didn’t we all secretly want a Chia Pet?) is suddenly the newest health craze, everyone raving about the health benefits of the almighty chia seed. Am I will gladly admit I am one of them. As a vegetarian, […]
The Boston Red Sox are Calling All Kids!
March 30, 2015
As you guys know, we are proud members of Red Sox Nation around here. I grew up watching the Red Sox, Dr. G. adopted the team a long time ago, and we are definitely raising two little Red Sox fans. I still remember the look of pure delight (and maybe […]
“Shades of Sound”: A Girls’ Day at the Ballet
March 24, 2015
Until recently — Sunday, to be exact — the only ballet I had ever seen was “The Nutcracker.” Twice. So, truthfully, I didn’t know what to expect when I was offered the opportunity to attend Boston Ballet’s “Shades of Sound,” a brand new production made up of three wildly different works: Wayne […]
This Week’s Meal and Workout Plan {Week of 3.23.15}
March 23, 2015
This week’s meal plan is a good representation of what many (though thankfully not all) weeks are like in our house. I’ve got PTO meetings out the wazoo as we gear up for our big fundraiser on Friday night. And Dr. G. has work deadlines and needs to pull a […]
We’re Ready to #ImagineSpring with OshKosh B’gosh
March 20, 2015
I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for OshKosh B’Gosh. I received a promotional item as a thank you for my participation. It’s here! It’s finally here! The first day of spring! Okay, okay, so the forecast calls for snow and temps and the low 30s […]
6 Lessons I Learned Running a 5K with My Son
March 19, 2015
Last Saturday, my 8-year-old ran his first 5K. He’s always been my cheerleader for all my races, enthusiastically waving homemade signs when he sees me approaching, stretching his hand out for a quick high-five as I rush past. He’s the first to run up and congratulate me after a race, […]
To Run a Half, Or Not to Run a Half
March 16, 2015
About three months ago, I stood on my soapbox (otherwise known as my blog) and declared, “I am only running one half marathon this year! I want to work on my speed and sprinting distances…” Blah blah blah. Oh man, was I so full of it. I really did mean […]
Five for Friday {3.13.15}
March 13, 2015
Happy Friday the 13th! I don’t know about you, but this week flew on by. Maybe it has something to do with the 50 degree — yep, 50 degree — weather on Wednesday and the fact that the snow is finally, slowly melting. Or maybe it’s because I started my […]
8 Tips to Becoming an Early Morning Exerciser
March 11, 2015
Welcome! Don’t forget to sign up to read my blog via RSS (get updates in a feed reader) or via email (updates delivered daily to your inbox). It’s interesting to see people’s reactions when I tell them I work out at 5 a.m. I’ve found it’s generally one of the […]
Meal Planning {Week of 3.9.15}
March 9, 2015
Welcome! Don’t forget to sign up to read my blog via RSS (get updates in a feed reader) or via email (updates delivered daily to your inbox). Yep, two weeks in a row! Can you believe it? I’m still keeping with our whole foods approach to meals … no processed junk, […]
Five for Friday {3.6.15}
March 6, 2015
So I have to say that I’m kind of digging this new approach to Five for Friday (inspired by Angela). I love myself some Instagram, but it’s hard to go into too much detail there (although there are certainly some cases where a photo truly speaks for itself). What can I […]
Frozen Goodness: Stonyfield Frozen Yogurt Pearls
March 4, 2015
I am one of those people who craves something sweet after dinner — a cookie, a piece of candy, you name it. I’m sure the craving is part mental and part physical (and maybe a slight sugar addiction). Normally, I’m active enough that having a little dessert isn’t that big […]
Meal Planning {Week of 3.2.15}
March 2, 2015
I missed you, meal planning. We used to be so close, and then we drifted apart. Trust me when I say it’s definitely not you, it’s me. And now I’m hoping to rekindle that flame. Can we get back together? Seriously, I have missed meal — and exercise — planning. […]
Our Snowmageddon Netflix Faves #StreamTeam
February 25, 2015
So far this year, we’ve had four snow days … and that’s just counting school days. That’s not even taking into consideration the weekend days we’ve been snowed in during this horrendous, rotten winter. So needless to say, we’ve all been watching a LOT on Netflix in 2015 (or “Netfix” […]
I Just Registered for My First Trail Race
February 23, 2015
One of my unofficial running goals in 2015 is to run a true trail race. My only experience with trail races so far has been snowy Turkey Trots runs through the woods in Pennsylvania (which doesn’t advertise itself as a trail race, even though 75% involves trails), and I was […]
Five for Friday: Instagram Edition
February 20, 2015
Happy Friday! Seriously, was this the longest week or what? I think it’s because this was my first full “normal” week (read: no snow days!) in seriously a month. All I know is that it dragged by. Hello, weekend! Anyway, I know I haven’t done a Five for Friday post […]
Dreaming of ZOOMA Cape Cod (Save 10%)
February 18, 2015
I think I can honestly say I have seasonal affective disorder this winter. Hey, Mother Nature, I call uncle, okay? With more than 80 (?!) inches of snow so far this winter, spring seems like a dream, something I might have seen once upon a time, but I’m not sure […]
What I’ve Been “Reading” Lately
February 16, 2015
Okay, so I put the word reading above in quotes because (as those of you who follow me on social media know) I’m obsessed with my Audible.com audiobooks. Audiobooks make my 1.5 hr commute bearable. I mean, I’m stuck in the car, might as well get something out of it…particularly […]
15 Random Facts
February 8, 2015
Oh God, another snow day. That makes No. 4 (or is it 5?) this school year. At this rate, they’ll be in school until July! Anyway, I think such a gross, snowy day is as good a time as any to share some silly random facts about me. Here we […]
My 2015 Race Schedule
February 3, 2015
I have officially signed up for my first race of the year! This 5K will be a special race for many reasons: it’s right here in my hometown; supports the elementary PTO, which I’m actively involved in; and will (hopefully) be the first race Buddy and I run together. Training has […]
It’s Streaming Cats and Dogs #StreamTeam
January 31, 2015
As you know, our four-legged girl, Raven, is our first baby. I’ve written a number of posts about her (see here and here) and, what can I say, we love her to pieces. As a result, I’m a bit of a sucker for any dog-hero movies, and cry like a baby whenever […]
I Survived a Blizzard and Two Snow Days Alone With My Kids
January 29, 2015
Generally I don’t mind a snow day at home with the family. It’s an excuse to sleep in, drink cocoa, build a snowman, make an Instagram-worthy pot of homemade soup for dinner and made-from-scratch chocolate chip cookies. And since Dr. G and I are both home, we can alternate checking […]
10 Reasons I Love Barre Class
January 26, 2015
Photo Credit: Live Love Barre Hey guys! I know, it’s been awhile. As you may have noticed, I took a bit of a blogging hiatus over the last month. It wasn’t intentional, and don’t worry, everything is fine. It’s just family, work, obligations and other distractions got in my blogging […]
Back in the Day
January 14, 2015
There have been countless stories, posts, memes and lists about the everyday items from our childhood that seem old and obsolete today … and completely foreign to our kids. You know, pay phones. Cassette tapes. Typewriters. Tape recorders. Rotary phones. But I recently discovered a new item to add to that […]
A New Year, A New Perspective on Running
January 2, 2015
It struck me the other day that I’ve been running for over three years now. Truthfully, I didn’t think I’d stick with it this long. I thought I’d give up, that I’d find it too hard, too boring, just not me. And I’m happy to say I was wrong. Well, […]
A Look Back at 2014: Wordless Wednesday
December 31, 2014
Every year for Christmas I make personalized calendars for my parents and in-laws with pictures of the kids throughout the year — skiing in the winter, Easter, beach vacations, baseball, Halloween…you get the idea. Yet I never think to do that for myself, to take a look back at MY […]
Ringing in the New Year with King Julien #Netflix
December 30, 2014
Hope everyone enjoyed the holidays! Our Christmas was a bit hectic, a blur of LEGOs, My Little Ponies and waaaaay too many sweets. And now it’s time for the next holiday …. New Year’s Eve! Like most parents, our New Year’s Eve celebrations are just a tad different than our […]
My Year in Running: 2014
December 21, 2014
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. I know, I know. It sounds pretty dramatic and I may be overexaggerating a bit. But when I look back at my races and running experiences in 2014, it was an up and down year. There were certainly […]
Welcome to the DD Dark Side! Dunkin Donuts Dark Roast #GIVEAWAY
December 18, 2014
I am a coffee addict. Ok, there I said it. The good news about being a coffee addict in New England is that there is usually a Dunkin’ Donuts within a 5-10 minute drive of wherever you are (ok, I don’t have any scientific proof, but it totally feels that […]
Currently {12.16.14}
December 16, 2014
Currently Reading: Buddy and I are about a quarter of the way through Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. I love watching his face as he absorbs the story and, to be totally honest, I’m thrilled that he still wants me to read to him, even though he’s a very good […]
Winter Running Gear Review: Eddie Bauer
December 7, 2014
Over Thanksgiving, Dr. G. and I ran a Turkey Trot 5K trail run in Pennsylvania. Of course, it had snowed about 3-4 inches the previous day, which meant, yep, we’d be running through the snow. And I have to say, it was kind of fun … and reminded me that […]
Nothing Says Christmas Like the Nutcracker
December 4, 2014
Last year, Buddy and I had the wonderful pleasure of seeing The Nutcracker, performed by the Boston Ballet (read the recap here). I wasn’t sure what my energetic then-7-year-old would think of the ballet, but to my surprise, he LOVED it … the music, the costumes, even the dancing. This year, […]
Keeping the Magic of Santa Alive
December 2, 2014
It came out of nowhere, completely catching me off guard as I was making dinner a few weeks ago. “Mom, I know Santa isn’t real,” Buddy said matter-of-factly. I paused. My heart fell. I felt like I wanted to throw up. Or cry. Or both. And then I started to panic. […]
Get Great Hair Every Day with Conair Pro 3Q and Curl Secret #HeartMyHair
November 24, 2014
This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are, as always, mine alone. #CollectiveBias I admit it: I usually have, oh, maybe 10 minutes to do my hair in the morning before work. No matter how much I plan ahead, my hair always ends […]
Dynamic Duo: My Top Gilmore Girls Episodes #StreamTeam
November 20, 2014
I’ve never been shy here about the fact that Beverly Hills, 90210 (original version, not the reboot) is my favorite show. But coming in at a very close second is arguably the best mother-daughter duo in TV history, at least in my opinion: Gilmore Girls. I adore Gilmore Girls and […]
YUM! Plant-Based Protein Smoothies With #GNCPlantProtein
November 17, 2014
People are always amazed when I tell them I’ve been a vegetarian for 25 years. Once they do the math and realize I was a tween when I went veg, they usually assume I have a dramatic story or an idealistic, save-the-animals sort of reason for eschewing meat at such […]
Cheerio! Our 3-Day London Adventure
November 13, 2014
Oh, London, I love you so. While it may not replace Paris as my favorite European city, it definitely comes in a very close second. The food. The parks. The beer. The history. The neighborhoods. The fashion. The architecture. The Underground. I could go on and on. Dr. G. and […]
My DIY LEGO Brick Halloween Costume
November 10, 2014
I did it, I did it! I made my own Halloween costume for the first time. Well, not MY costume, Buddy’s. We had a heck of a time this year coming up with a costume for Buddy this year. He — and I know this will be shocking — originally […]
London Calling
November 7, 2014
Cheerio! I’m in London the next few days, enjoying a grown-ups only long weekend with some good friends. The last time Dr. G. and I were in London was 10 years ago as the last leg of our, um, adventurous European honeymoon (which I talked about here). Because we got a […]
36 Hours in NYC (And Some Family-Friendly Travel Tips)
November 5, 2014
So as those of you who follow me on social media know, we recently had a weekend adventure in New York City. Unlike this past weekend, which was cold and blustery (extra props to everyone who completed the New York City Marathon in those blustery winds on Sunday!), our excursion […]
Non-Spooky Netflix Titles for Halloween #StreamTeam
October 31, 2014
I love Halloween. I love Haunted Houses and trick-or-treating and spooky songs. But one thing I’m not too fond of? Scary movies. At least not anymore. I wrote this post for The Bump a year or so ago about being surprised to discover I didn’t enjoy scary movies anymore after having […]
Guest Post: I Am 39 and a Three-Time Stroke Survivor #WorldStrokeDay
October 29, 2014
My name is Lisa Deck and I’m so thrilled (and honored!) to be sharing my personal story with Keeping Mommy Sane today. My friendship with Jessica began when she worked in media advocacy for the American Heart Association and I was one of her projects. Looks like we’re still at […]
Who Remembers Prince Spaghetti Day?
October 28, 2014
I participated in Blog Blast on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Prince Pasta. I received a promotional item to thank me for participating. Every day when I pick up my kids after school, the first words out of their mouth are always, “What’s for dinner?” Not “Hi, Mommy!” or “How […]
True Confessions
October 27, 2014
So I’ve been keeping something from you guys. Remember that huge job change I announced just about this time last fall? The one that led to our leaving our beloved daycare and enrolling Mimi in a new daycare in town? I quit back in February. Part of me was kind […]
Yep, I’m That Mom Screaming from the Sidelines
October 23, 2014
Every week when I show up for Buddy’s soccer game, I give myself a little pep talk. Don’t yell, don’t scream, don’t be one of THOSE parents. Just sit there silently, watch the game, and maybe run out at halftime with a baggie of orange wedges for the team. Just […]
Running Through the Pain
October 21, 2014
I am temporarily hanging up my running shoes. I’ve hinted to it on social media, but I’ve been struggling for the last month with some foot pain and numbness between my third and fourth toes on my left foot. This is the same sort of issue I experienced training for […]
Hartford Half Marathon Recap
October 15, 2014
Normally I am so excited to write my race recaps and share my experienced with you guys. But this time? Not so much. Well, that’s not necessarily true. I loved so many things about the NU Hartford Marathon and Half Marathon — the course, the organization, the eco-friendliness, the shirt […]
Timeless Style and Comfort with J.Jill
October 13, 2014
I love fall fashion. Riding boots, jeans, sweaters, scarves … I always get a little giddy when I break these goodies out of the closet as soon as the leaves start to turn. But I do have a confession to make: I’ve had ulterior motives when looking for items to add […]
Managing Race Day Expectations
October 10, 2014
It looks like I’ll be running my first official race in the rain. I’ve been extremely lucky so far to avoid running races in any real inclement weather. Cold, yes. Heat, yes. But rain or snow or really high winds? Nope, nope, and nope. But that will likely change tomorrow […]
Fall Fashion Whimsy with Boden (and a Giveaway!)
October 6, 2014
I was recently introduced to the British brand Boden and now I’m hooked. Their clothes are stylish, classy and have a little bit of whimsy. And their Mini Boden line for kids is so stinking cute … especially their options for little girls. Every outfit I saw, I thought, Awwww, […]
Hartford or Bust!
October 3, 2014
I can’t believe how pumped I am for the NU Hartford Half Marathon a week from tomorrow. When I originally signed up for two half marathons in 14 days, I think a part of me thought I was nuts I’d be burnt out for the second race, that I wouldn’t […]
Friday Family Movie Night with Netflix #StreamTeam
September 30, 2014
We’re just about one month into the school year and my head is already spinning. The four of us (okay, three of us … it’s hard to put any of this on 3-year-old Mimi) seem to be going in different directions. And don’t even talk to me about our weekend […]
ZOOMA Cape Cod Race Recap
September 29, 2014
Another half marathon — ZOOMA Cape Cod in Falmouth, MA– is in the books! I’m not quite sure where to begin, since it was kind of an up-and-down race weekend for me. There were so many things I loved (the ZOOMA gang, my fellow ambassadors, the Sea Crest Beach Hotel) […]
Countdown to Half Marathon #4
September 26, 2014
In 24 hours, I will be embarking on my fourth half marathon – ZOOMA Cape Cod . Training for this race has been …. interesting. With my other races, I definitely “had a feeling” going into the race, based on how my training went. This one feels like a crapshoot. […]
PlateJoy Review
September 23, 2014
A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to try out PlateJoy, a new grocery service that not only helps you plan healthy meals but also provides personalized recipes and assist you with food shopping. Seriously, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect. Dr. G. was leaving for a […]
Science Birthday Weekend Fun
September 22, 2014
It’s official: I now have an 8-year-old. Time to go update my About section 🙂 Buddy was the lucky beneficiary of a weekend-long birthday celebration, which started on Friday morning and finally concluded when he went to bed last night. On Friday morning, I headed to Buddy’s second grade classroom […]
Can I Wear These Rockport Heels Everyday? #PoweredbyHeels
September 17, 2014
Yesterday was one of those days when I looked at my schedule and groaned. Out loud. Because It looked something like this: 5am: Run 5 miles 8am: Drive 45 minutes, arrive at work 8am-4pm: Work, meetings, and more meetings. 4pm: Leave work early. Drive 45 minutes home. 4:50pm: Pick up […]
“Mommy, What Happened To Those Towers?”
September 11, 2014
Update: This is one of those posts that I often hear from readers about. I thought it was only appropriate to repost it today. (Originally published Sept. 11. 2013). Buddy has been into non-fiction lately. He’s been especially fascinated by this book called “Where?” that my mother-in-law picked up sometime […]
3 Weeks to Go to Half Marathon #4
September 9, 2014
Less than three weeks until the ZOOMA Cape Cod half marathon. And less than five weeks to go until the Hartford Half Marathon. Yep, this is getting real now. As I mentioned, my goal with ZOOMA is to think of it as my last long training run, and an opportunity […]
Alex’s Lemonade Million Mile – Run. Walk. Ride.
September 4, 2014
I think that about sums it up why I decided to join some of my fellow bloggers and the amazing team at Alex’s Lemonade Stand in the fight against childhood cancer. During the month of September, our team — Bloggers Go Gold — will walk, run and bike as many miles as […]
I’m Running the Hartford Half Marathon (and a Discount Code!)
September 2, 2014
Yup, I’m running two half marathons this fall. Within two weeks of each other. <Breathe, breathe> But I couldn’t say no to the folks with the Hartford Marathon Foundation, especially not with all the wonderful things I’ve heard about the NU Hartford Marathon and Half Marathon event (beautiful course, relatively flat, […]
A Weekend of Firsts
September 1, 2014
Happy Monday! Or, should I say, Happy Long Weekend! I swear, I needed this three-day weekend more than anything. Work has been pretty busy (and stressful) the last few weeks, Dr. G. has had quite a bit of work travel lately (um, Hawaii, really?!), and the first day of school […]
My Second Blogiversary
August 29, 2014
Who would have thought — Keeping Mommy Sane has turned 2!!! It still seems unbelievable, especially when I think back to that very first post . After publishing that, I remember thinking, Who the heck is ever going to want to read this? But, honestly, I wasn’t worried about that, […]
The Surprising Ways Motherhood Has Changed Me
August 26, 2014
The other day, I remarked to a friend (who is expecting) about my post-pregnancy bionic sense of smell. Really, it’s like my own magical power. In some ways, its good (Fire! Gas!). Others … not so much (poopy diapers, garbage in the kitchen that desperately needs to be thrown away, […]
12 Netflix Titles to Promote Kindness & Acceptance
August 25, 2014
One week left until Buddy starts second grade. Second grade? Seriously, how did that happen? The word on the street in our town is that second grade is known for having a crazy amount of homework. Oh boy. He’s done a good amount of reading this summer (mostly dinosaur books) […]
Five for Friday {8.22.14}
August 22, 2014
1// For my Boston-area friends, definitely check out the Prudential Center’s 2014 Family Film Festival. We headed there last weekend, taking in a viewing of “The LEGO Movie” under the stars in the Prudential’s South Garden, surrounded by the bright lights of the skyscrapers. We got there about an hour […]
My #IBDSelfie
August 20, 2014
Just around the time the ALS Association launched their inspirational ice bucket challenge, the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation started their own social media campaign and PSA called #IBDSelfie. The goal? To help convey the true, real-life story of what’s it’s like living with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) — specifically ulcerative colitis and […]
My Life in Numbers {Updated}
August 14, 2014
I recently came across this old post from December 2012 and realized it could use a little updating! So here is my life in numbers, circa 2014! ********************************************* First, I want to say thank you for your support of my recent post on my struggle with ulcerative colitis. I never […]
Helping Kids in Our Community with SIMPLE Giving
August 12, 2014
Did you know that more than 16 million children live in poverty in the United States? It’s a staggering — and sobering — statistic. As many of us (myself included) fret and stress and complain about purchasing all the back-to-school items on our child’s supply list, it’s hard to remember […]
Fun Facts Monday
August 11, 2014
1. Yes, I am totally writing this post because life got crazy late last week and I never got a chance to do a Five for Friday. Just go with it. 2. I survived nearly 24 hours of camping this weekend. This is a big deal, because I am not […]
Happy Birthday Raven
August 7, 2014
Dear Raven, It’s hard to believe 10 years have gone by from the day we saw this photo on an adoption website, and we knew we had to have you. Some days that seems like a million years ago, but on others, I can still recall your joy the first time […]
Here We Go! Back Into Training Mode
August 4, 2014
Remember when I announced I was taking a short break from running this summer? Sure, I didn’t stop running altogether, but I seriouly downgraded my mileage and ran when and how I felt like … no plans, no requirements, no feeling like I had to do it. So over the […]
10 Things I Learned on My Summer Vacation
July 31, 2014
Ahh, vacation. We spend weeks and weeks anxiously awaiting your arrival, and then — in a flash — you come and go. We hardly got a chance to know you. Seriously, though, we had a fantastic week on Cape Cod. Sure, there were arguments and teasing and whining, but there […]
Back-to-School Style with Carter’s (and a $50 Gift Card Giveaway!)
July 28, 2014
I know we just got back from our summer vacation, but according to our calendar, school around here starts in about four weeks. Time to get my head out of the stand (literally and figuratively!) and start thinking about back-to-school shopping. Lucky for me, I recently participated in a virtual briefing […]
Meal Planning (Week of July 27)
July 27, 2014
It’s funny how a week of ice cream and onion rings and margaritas and summer shandy beer can make a girl dive headfirst back into meal planning. Believe me, I enjoyed every last bite and sip during our Cape Cod vacation (recap to come this week!), but as soon as […]
Summer Brain-Power Boost #StreamTeam
July 25, 2014
At the ripe old age of 7 and 3/4, Buddy has rediscovered his old love for dinosaurs. It’s not that he plays with them, like he used to when he was little. He just cannot get enough information about them. His bed is literally covered in dinosaur books. I took […]
List Obsessed
July 23, 2014
I’ve never been shy about the fact that I like lists. I like them at home. I like them at work. And apparently, I like them on my blog. I’ve been blogging for nearly two years now (!), and on a whim, I did a search to see how many […]
Coming To Terms With My “Runner’s Body”
July 21, 2014
Updated July 21, 2014: I have been thinking about this post, which I originally wrote last fall, for awhile now. Really, ever since summer started and I had to break out all my old shorts I bought last April before our Disney trip. Because they were snug. Not in the […]
Hello from Cape Cod!
July 20, 2014
Happy Sunday! We’re here on Cape Cod for the week for a little family vacation … and I think we ALL needed a change of scenery. The moment we stepped into our beach house, it felt like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders (Dr. G’s, too) and we all […]
Running Skirts Giveaway
July 17, 2014
So a couple of weeks ago, I alluded to a pretty fantastic giveaway from the wonderful ladies at Running Skirts … and now here it is! I have been a fan of running skirts (the actual clothing item) for some time now, but my first introduction to the Running Skirts […]
Our Weekend Trip to Water Country
July 15, 2014
We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day, weather-wise, for our family’s first visit to Water Country. After navigating a bit of unexpected traffic trying to get out of the Boston area, we arrived to the park around 11:00 am, a full half an hour after the park opens. […]
Five for Friday {7.11.14}
July 11, 2014
1. Last night, some of my mom friends here in town (we used to call ourselves the “first grade moms,” but since our boys are entering second grade in the fall, I guess that needs to change!) got together for a paint and wine girls night at my friend J’s […]
10 Ways My 3-Year-Old is Like a Teenager
July 9, 2014
Mimi turned three exactly one month ago, and suddenly I went from living with a cute, precious toddler to a moody, still precious (and yes, still pretty darn cute) teenager. Or threenager, a word I first heard on a friend’s blog, but I never knew quite what it meant. Until now. […]
Summer Fun at Water Country {Coupon Code and Giveaway!}
July 7, 2014
Woot – our first true summer activity is coming up this weekend! On Saturday, the four of us are heading up to Water Country in Portsmouth, New Hampshire — New England’s largest water park — for a day of water fun. Lucky for us, it’s only a 1.5 hour drive […]
High School Reunion?
July 2, 2014
Yep, I graduated high school 20 years ago. Twenty years. That is just insane. And just to prove the point, consider that back in 1994 … A movie ticket was $4.08. Figure skater Nancy Kerrigan received a club to the knee (a story I recapped in way too much detail in our […]
Mom’s Night In {Netflix #StreamTeam}
June 30, 2014
Once upon a time, I used to have five or six TV shows I would watch religiously, usually a mix of reality TV (“Project Runway,” “Amazing Race”) and drama (“Lost,” “Gilmore Girls,” “Sex and the City.”). But over time, that number has slowly dwindled down to one: NBC’s “Parenthood.” (Well, […]
Five for Friday {6.27.14}
June 27, 2014
Wow, I haven’t done one of these posts in AGES! Of course, that means I have a growing list of random tidbits I’m just dying to share with you guys. So let’s dive right in … ONE // Farm share! Finally, finally, got our partial farm share started this week! Unfortunately, […]
A Change of Pace
June 25, 2014
I admit, I’m not usually an optimistic, glass-half-full sort of person. But last week — when I wasn’t able to work out at all, thanks to another round of debilitating lower back pain triggered by yard work — was, in retrospect, actually a GOOD thing in some ways. Because I have […]
Wayfair Daily Deals: A Bargain Hunter’s Dream
June 23, 2014
Now that it’s officially summer, I can’t stop thinking about BBQs and fire pits and s’mores and margaritas on the deck. The problem is that the backyard oasis I have in my head does not quite match the reality of our yard. Don’t get me wrong, our yard is great, […]
Bring Back Those Lazy, Hazy Days of Summer
June 20, 2014
I recently took a peek at our summer calendar and almost started to hyperventilate. The first day of summer is tomorrow, and nearly every weekend from now through late August is already penciled in with birthday parties and BBQs, road races and camping trips, sleepovers at Grandma’s and blog events. […]
Healthy Living During the Busy Summer Months {Giveaway!}
June 18, 2014
It’s ironic, isn’t it? That the season with the nicest weather (well, maybe not the nicest come mid-August) is often the hardest time to lead a healthy lifestyle. At least for me. I mean, think about it. All the entertaining. Plus BBQs. Ice Cream. Margaritas. Vacations. And I have a […]
Race More Often, Or Race Stronger?
June 16, 2014
Okay, I know many runners claim they are consistent in their performance, but this is getting ridiculous. On Saturday, I ran my 3rd Gaspee 5K. Here was my official time (although my Garmin said 25:16): And here was my time in 2013. Kind of eerie, right? Same place in the […]
Getting Ready for Summer Camp! {Giveaway}
June 13, 2014
Who’s getting ready for summer camp? Buddy has two more weeks left of school, but I’m already tabulating all the things I need to get ready for when his YMCA camp starts on June 30: bathing suits, towels, backpacks, lunch bags, water bottles, bug spray, sunscreen … the list goes […]
Runner’s World Heartbreak Hill Five & Dime (Part Three)
June 12, 2014
(Here are the links to Part One and Part Two of my recap!) Okay, I admit I was pretty nervous about the idea of running two races in one day. I know I have run more than 9.3 miles on many occasions, but the idea of doing so in two […]
Runner’s World Heartbreak Hill Half & Festival Recap (Part Two)
June 10, 2014
In case you missed yesterday’s post, here’s the link. I loved how Runner’s World structured the weekend to be more than just a road race. True to it’s name, it really was a festival, complete with informational sessions, workshops, book signings, and talks on Saturday afternoon that anyone who was signed […]
Runner’s World Heartbreak Hill Half & Festival Recap (Part One)
June 9, 2014
As those of you who follow me on social media know, I was invited by Runner’s World to be part of their official blogging crew this past weekend for the Runner’s World Heartbreak Hill Half & Festival, right here in the Boston area. Crazy, right? I’m still in a bit of […]
Happy 3rd Birthday, Mimi
June 6, 2014
For weeks now, Mimi has been pestering me about painting her nails. (“Already?!” I remember saying to Dr. G., not quite ready to cross the bridge to little girl-dom with her). But I eventually gave in and told her that on her third birthday I’d paint her nails with special […]
Happy National Running Day!
June 4, 2014
Happy National Running Day! I think the graphic above really sums up how I feel about running. Over the last three or so years, running has become my outlet, my hobby, my much-needed “me” time, my way of staying in shape and pushing my physical limits. It has reignited that […]
Bondi Band Review & Giveaway
June 3, 2014
I am very particular about headbands, especially when I’m out running. On most days, I’ll wear a hat because I detest that feeling of sweat or stray wispies against my forehead mid-run. Over the years, I’ve found a rare few that work on my round head, and now I’m adding […]
Some New Healthy Habits (With a Little Help from Walgreens)
June 2, 2014
I am a member of the Collective Bias® Social Fabric® Community. This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper amplification for Collective Bias and its advertiser. I recently had an epiphany. After spending ten minutes lathering up my kids in sunscreen before going out to play […]
I Call Uncle
June 1, 2014
So I am just going to come out and say it. I am not doing any formal meal planning until baseball season ends in a few weeks. For the last month, whenever I’ve sat down and sketched out my plan, I have found myself penciling in “TBD” or “takeout” more […]
Musical Madness on Netflix #StreamTeam
May 30, 2014
We are a family of singers. Some of us are better than others, but none of us are shy about it. Buddy routinely sings along with the radio (One Direction). Dr. G. sings along to his alt music channels on Pandora (yawn). I have a weakness for Broadway showtunes (“Wicked”) […]
Yoga at Fenway Park? #RedSoxMoms
May 29, 2014
It’s no secret that we are a family of baseball lovers around here … and fervent Red Sox fans, no less. (Remember our amazing trip to Fenway Park last summer?) So I’m not sure who was more excited when I was asked a few weeks ago to join the #RedSoxFamily […]
Soooooo Close at Boston’s Run to Remember {Race Recap}
May 27, 2014
It’s been more than 24 hours since I completed half marathon no. 3 – Boston’s Run to Remember – and I still find myself going back and forth between how I feel about the end result. It’s like I have an angel on one shoulder and a devil on the […]
A Little Running Survey
May 21, 2014
Okay, so you guys know I’m a sucker for survey and lists, right? Since there are only a few days until half marathon #3, and then I am participating in the Runner’s World Heartbreak Hill Half and Festival (don’t forget your discount codes!), I thought a running survey was only […]
Weekend Whirlwind and Some Half Marathon Musings
May 19, 2014
Good morning! Hope you all had a wonderful weekend. After a very rainy early Saturday morning here in the Boston area, the weather cleared up and we were treated to two lovely sunny days. As soon as the rain tapered off on Saturday morning, I headed out for an 8 […]
Friday Favorites: Lucy Activewear
May 16, 2014
I love lucy. Sorry, I couldn’t resist. But it’s true. I am loving the lucy activewear line. lucy is relatively new to the activewear market, having launched in 1999 by a group of women who felt workout wear should not only support your athletic pursuits, but should be stylish and flattering, […]
Work/Life Balance or Organized Chaos?
May 14, 2014
In the last month or so since I was named to Working Mother’s Best of the Net 2014 (which I’m still pinching myself over!), I’ve gotten a few emails from readers asking how I “balance it all.” Heh heh. While I’m flattered that it looks like I have my act […]
Yes, I’m Actually Meal Planning Again!
May 11, 2014
Once upon a time, I used to plan my family’s meals. I would even – gasp! – blog about it. Those were the good old days. I miss them. As you may (or may not) have noticed, I haven’t posted a meal plan in about a month. I have no […]
10 Years After “I Do”
May 8, 2014
I’ve tried to write this post so many times, but I always end up hitting the delete button. Because how can I possibly put into words the way I feel after 10 (or, really, more like 13) of the most wonderful years of my life? How can I explain the […]
Wine, Love and Fun on the Run in Ithaca
May 5, 2014
I cannot believe I’ve almost been married for 10 years. Seriously, guys, that is crazy. I’ve got an appropriately mushy post planned for Thursday (our actual anniversary), so I’ll spare you some of that today and focus instead on our sneaky weekend getaway to … drumroll, please … Ithaca, New […]
Indulging my ’80s Nostalgia with Netflix {Plus a Giveaway!}
April 30, 2014
I admit it: I’m a bit of an ’80s pop culture junkie. Some of my favorite movies and TV shows are from the decade that brought us neon and mile-high bangs. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen “Adventures in Babysitting,” “Heathers,” “The Goonies,” or “St. Elmo’s Fire.” […]
Wedding Fun + A New PR = One Excellent Weekend {Newport 10-Miler Recap}
April 28, 2014
This pretty much sums up our entire weekend. Start with the beautiful wedding of my favorite people, and add in an amazing race (where I crushed my time goal), and you have one pretty awesome weekend. I was looking forward to this wedding for so many reasons. First, I was beyond ecstatic […]
Life Doesn’t Stop When You’re Training for a Half Marathon
April 23, 2014
Um, how is there only 4 weeks until my next half marathon? I am trying not to panic, but truth be told, I’m really nervous. I was so excited earlier this year when I set forth on my training journey which I’m still hoping will lead to a sub-2:00 time (and […]
10 Things I Learned Potty Training
April 21, 2014
I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting (#MC) for Pull-Ups. I received product samples to facilitate my review and a promotional item as a thank you for participating Let’s face it: Potty training is a strange, strange thing. When I first attempted to potty train Buddy […]
A Girls Getaway to the Windy City
April 16, 2014
Hello friends! So it’s been 48 hours since I returned from our girls weekend in Chicago … and I’m still tired! I guess this suburban mama isn’t used to staying up past midnight (and in the case of Saturday night, 3am CT!). But it was totally and completely worth it. […]
Disney Reflections, One Year Later
April 14, 2014
Happy Monday! I had such an incredible time in Chicago this past weekend, and I can’t wait to tell you guys about it! I’m working on a fun photo recap and will post it soon. But it struck me, as I was walking through the airport yesterday, that this time […]
I Found The Best Gym Bag {A Thirty-One Giveaway!}
April 10, 2014
I think I have found the perfect gym bag. As those of you who follow me on Instagram know, I have been trying to squeeze in lunchtime workouts a few days a week, which usually involves a fast 5K and some ab work, but it always leaves me a hot […]
Public Service Announcement
April 7, 2014
For all you potty training parents out there (especially those with a little girl), I have an important public service announcement for you — do yourself a favor and (a) keep a careful watch on her toilet paper usage, and (b) stock up on that thin, cheapie, one-ply brand of […]
Musings from Yesterday’s 11-Miler
April 6, 2014
Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend! Did anyone else see this hysterical piece on Buzzfeed about 75 Thoughts Every Runner Has While Out for a Run? So. Funny. And, in many cases, so true (at least for me). Okay, so while my mostly post-run musings aren’t nearly as witty or entertaining, […]
Five for Friday {4.4.14}
April 4, 2014
Happy Friday! Sorry I missed last week! It was the night of our town’s big PTA fundraiser, which I was helping to coordinate, and things were crazy-busy. This week’s Five for Friday is a bit of a hodgepodge, because that’s kind of how my brain is feeling these days 😉 […]
Family Fun with Blue Man Group in Boston (Review)
April 2, 2014
I’m a big fan of taking the kiddos to shows and performances. I’m sure part of it is the theater geek in me, but I also like exposing them to forms of entertainment that take place “in real life” outside of the magical box in our family room … particularly […]
I Tried It: Spinning With Soul Cycle
March 31, 2014
I never intended to start an “I Tried It” series, but I’ve been fortunate enough over the past few weeks to have the opportunity to check out some pretty cool experiences I probably never would have tried otherwise: trapeze class and now, Soul Cycle, the popular indoor cycling class. As an admitted […]
Meal Planning {Week of March 30}
March 30, 2014
Happy Sunday! Sorry for the meal planning hiatus last week. I wish I had more exciting reasons why I skipped it, but truthfully, I just wasn’t feeling it last week. Also, it was such a crazy week for us, schedule-wise, that the whole plan would have consisted of TBDs and […]
Come Join Me at the Runner’s World Heartbreak Hill Half & Festival (Discount Codes!)
March 27, 2014
It seems sort of surreal, but today I’m announcing that I will be participating in the Runner’s World Heartbreak Hill Half & Festival as part of the official Runner’s World blogger ambassador crew! Me, partnering with Runner’s World?! Crazy! The festival takes place on the campus of my […]
I Tried it: Trapeze Class!
March 25, 2014
I recently discovered the best conversation starter. Tell someone you’re taking a trapeze class. They’ll either look at you like you’re certifiably insane, or gasp and say, “Oh, wow, that’s so cool!” And you know what? They’re both right. But, as I learned on Saturday night, that’s what made it […]
A Huggies Pull-Ups® Potty Training Update
March 24, 2014
I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting (#MC) for Pull-Ups. I received product samples to facilitate my review and a promotional item as a thank you for participating A couple of weeks ago, I wrote about how Mimi completely surprised us with her sudden desire to […]
Five for Friday: Fear Factor Edition
March 21, 2014
So this week’s Five for Friday is going to be slightly different, and is inspired by an activity I’m participating in tomorrow … one that will force me to confront one of my greatest fears. I am taking a trapeze class. Yes, I will be learning how to fly through […]
Wishing for Spring: My Fashion Must-Haves
March 20, 2014
Happy first day of spring! Seriously, I never thought this day would come. Of course, a date on the calendar doesn’t mean the temperatures will suddenly level out at 65 degrees, but it is a sign that warmer weather is around the corner … which mean I can finally banish […]
Shamrock Shuffle 5K Recap and a Surprise Honor from Working Mother Magazine!
March 18, 2014
So yesterday I got the most unexpected, lovely and humbling surprise: I was named to Working Mother magazine’s Best of the Net 2014! (check out No. 12) {Breathe, breathe.} The editors specifically cited how I write about balancing a full-time career, motherhood and exercise, and how I haven’t let staying fit […]
Netflix Show Ideas for Your Budding Scientist
March 17, 2014
I am part of the Stream Team ambassador program for Netflix. I was not compensated for my time, but I was provided product to use to facilitate my thoughts and reviews. All opinions listed are 100% my own. Astronomy. Chemistry. Biology. Engineering. Physics. If you’re looking for science, then come […]
Meal Planning {Week of 3.16.14}
March 16, 2014
Anyone start celebrating St. Patrick’s Day a little early? I will say, it’s hard being a vegetarian Irish gal. I remember St.Patrick’s Day dinners at a little girl, the smell of corned beef and cabbage, potatoes and carrots wafting in from the kitchen. Ahhh, it was one of my favorite […]
Five for Friday {3.14.14}
March 14, 2014
It’s been a long week, friends, so I’m just going to dive right in: ONE // Wish me luck in the Shamrock Shuffle 5k tomorrow! And be sure to check back early next week for a recap. Ahhh, I miss writing race recaps! Do you remember my first one? It […]
I’m a Zooma Run Cape Cod Ambassador!
March 12, 2014
I am currently training for my May half marathon but I’m already thinking ahead to the fall because {drumroll please} I was recently named a ZOOMA Run Cape Cod Ambassador! I had this race on my list last year and had to back out due to a family commitment, so […]
A Sparkly Soul Discount, Just for You!
March 10, 2014
For those of you who have been following me for awhile, it’s no secret that I’m kind of obsessed with Sparkly Soul™ headbands. I have always had a tough time finding headbands that fit my round head. Without fail, they slip off in the first two minutes of my run, […]
Meal Planning {Week of 3.9.14}
March 9, 2014
Hope everyone is having a good weekend! I think I am still flying high from yesterday’s springlike temperatures. Not only did I get out for a steady, 9 mile run in the sunshine, but I also went out that afternoon wearing just a puffy vest instead of my ginormous down […]
Five for Friday {3.7.14}
March 7, 2014
Happy Friday! Um, do we really have to spring our clocks forward this weekend?? It’s already pitch black when I head into the gym at 5am; now it will also be pitch black when I leave. Boo. Anyway, enough complaining. I mean, it’s the weekend, right? 🙂 So on to this week’s […]
Time, Where Have You Gone?
March 4, 2014
Somehow, in the blink of an eye, my little Mimi has become a potty-trained preschooler who sleeps in her own full-sized bed. Seriously, how did that happen? I don’t know if my heart can take all the transitions my littlest has undergone the last few weeks. Big girl underpants. Big […]
I’m With the Netflix Stream Team
March 3, 2014
I was recently asked to join Netflix’s Stream Team, and honestly, the timing couldn’t be more perfect. We’ve started streaming movies and TV shows more and more lately, mostly because I love how we can watch on our own schedule, and since this winter has been so brutal, we’ve been […]
Meal Planning (Week of March 2)
March 2, 2014
I can’t believe the afternoon is almost over and I’m just now getting to posting my meal plan. Ooops! Actually, it’s not too surprising. I had a girls night out and stayed out much later than I am used to, especially for a girl who is usually in bed by […]
Five for Friday (Feb. 28)
February 28, 2014
I don’t know about you all, but this has been a loooooong week. I’m tired and counting the seconds until the weekend, so without further adieu … ONE // Even though my workout schedule was disrupted a bit, I had an awesome week in terms of running. My 8 miles (outside!!) […]
Hollywood Reboot
February 26, 2014
We recently took the kiddos to see “The LEGO Movie” (which was pretty awesome, even though that song got stuck in my head for days), and while I was there, I couldn’t help but notice the posters promoting new and soon-to-be released flicks. “Endless Love.” “Robocop.” “About Last Night.” Did […]
I’m a Huggies Pull-Ups® First Flush Ambassador
February 24, 2014
I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting (#MC) for Pull-Ups. I received product samples to facilitate my review and a promotional item as a thank you for participating I feel like we have been potty-training Mimi for like two years. I know this is impossible, since […]
Meal Planning (Week of Feb. 23)
February 23, 2014
Can you believe it’s almost March?! February seems to have flown by. For me, March is one of those loooooong months …. and can be such a tease that spring is almost here, but not quite. Anyway, we took a break from meal planning last week due to school vacation […]
Five for Friday (Feb. 21)
February 21, 2014
Happy Friday! So I’m guessing by now most have you have noticed that Keeping Mommy Sane looks a little different. I’m so excited for my blog makeover and redesign! What do you think? Major kudos to the awesome Becca at Jumpin’ Jax Designs, who very patiently answered all my utterly […]
My New/Old Running Shoes
February 19, 2014
For those of you who follow me on social media (Wait, what? You don’t?!), I posted a pic on Instagram a few weeks ago of my new Brooks Dyad 7s. This was a big deal for me. I’d been a Brooks Glycerin girl for years, but I noticed I was […]
Planning My 2014 Racing Schedule
February 18, 2014
Two half marathons. A couple 10Ks. One ten-miler. A handful of 5Ks. And my first time running two races in one morning. That about sums up my 2014 racing schedule. I always find it rather exhilarating to plan out my race schedule. Why? Because I love looking at the year […]
Launching “Five for Friday”
February 14, 2014
Happy Valentine’s Day, friends! TGIF and Valentine’s Day all rolled up into one? Love it. What I don’t love? More snow. I had all sorts of plans to do my long run outside this weekend but apparently Mother Nature thought that was hysterical. Okay, I guess I could still technically […]
Naked House
February 12, 2014
Now that Buddy is 7, he is no longer allowed to use the women’s locker room at the local YMCA, which is kind of a drag when we’re there for swim class. If I want to be able to nag him to hurry up assist, we have to use the […]
My “I Wanna Run a Sub-2:00” Half Marathon Training Plan
February 10, 2014
I can’t believe it’s training time again. I am signed up again for the Boston’s Run to Remember Half Marathon in late May … which was my very first half marathon last year, for those of you who have been following along for awhile. Having run the course before, this […]
Meal Planning (Week of Feb. 9)
February 9, 2014
Happy Sunday! So we’ve been enjoying an unexpectedly relaxing weekend. Poor Mimi was diagnosed with pneumonia and an ear infection on Thursday (talk about a double whammy), so we’ve been laying low, running errands, watching movies and the Olympics, that sort of thing. Honestly, I think we all needed it […]
Friday Favorites: Lands End Performance Collection
February 7, 2014
You guys know how obsessed I am with activewear, right? Well, I found a new favorite line from kind of an unexpected place. Land’s End. I admit I’ve never purchased any clothes for me from Land’s End, but they are my go-to for the kiddos, especially when it comes to […]
Ski Weekend Fun with the Ice Castle at Loon Mountain
February 5, 2014
Note: I extended the giveaway by an extra day because I realized I kind of screwed up the timing when I set up the Rafflecopter entry form. Sorry, friends! The giveaway will now end tomorrow – Tuesday, Feb. 11 – at 12:00am ET. I’m not sure who was more excited […]
(Not So) Deep Thoughts
January 30, 2014
Anyone else remember the “Saturday Night Live” skit called “Deep Thoughts by Jack Handey”? Or am I totally dating myself here? Today I am sharing some of my totally random “deep” thoughts. And trust me when I say they are random. Actually, I am kind of embarrassed to admit that these are […]
Meal Planning (Week of Jan. 26)
January 26, 2014
I will try to get through my rundown of this week’s meal plan without getting sick. Just the sort of opener I’m sure you were looking for with a weekly dinner menu post, right? But on Friday afternoon, I came down with a sudden (and pretty brutal) flu-like illness, complete […]
Cutting Back on Caffeine
January 23, 2014
No, I am not pregnant. Okay, now that we cleared THAT up, let’s talk about the ridiculous amount of coffee I have been drinking on a daily basis. Really, it’s kind of embarrassing. Let’s take a typical morning when I’m running at the gym at 5:00 am. I found that […]
Getting Fit With C9 by Champion for Target (and a $200 Giveaway!)
January 21, 2014
I am always on the lookout for new workout gear. Because let’s face it: after a while, those capris and tanks and sports bras get pretty nasty. And I admit I sometimes feel more motivated (and even perform better!) when I’m wearing something that’s cute and flattering and functional, rather […]
10 Reasons I’m Glad I Joined the PTO
January 16, 2014
When Buddy started kindergarten last year, several people asked whether I was going to get involved in the elementary parent-teacher organization. Each time, I’m sure a disgusted look came over my face as I said, “Absolutely not.” In my mind, the PTO was made up of stay-at-home Stepford wives who […]
My Magazine Addiction
January 14, 2014
My name is Jessica and I am addicted to magazines. I currently subscribe to about 10 different publications. I’ve been known to squeal with delight upon opening my mailbox to see multiple magazines just waiting for me. I love settling down on a Friday night with a glass of wine […]
A Pain in the Butt … Literally
January 9, 2014
I have my first running-related injury. Sigh. Welcome to the club, right? I’m not quite sure how it happened -– and it may have more to do with my cross training as opposed to my running -– but all I know is that I have a pain the butt. Literally. […]
My 2014 Health and Fitness Bucket List
January 6, 2014
Now that I took a look back at 2013, and shared my personal goals for the coming year, it’s time to think about my Health and Fitness Bucket List for 2014. This year’s list is all about accomplishing some of those 2013 goals that got away, building on last […]
Meal Plan (Week of January 5)
January 5, 2014
Wow, I haven’t had to plan for a “normal” week in quite some time. Between holidays, school vacation and snow days, our schedule (like yours, I’m sure) has been all over the place, meaning there have been lots of eating out and big family dinners and winging it for meals […]
Making Personal Goals (Not Resolutions)
January 2, 2014
The word resolution is defined as “a firm decision to do or not to do something.” Several other dictionaries take it a step further, specifically describing New Year’s resolutions as “a decision that you make on the first day of the year about the things that you intend to do or […]
My Year in Running 2013
December 30, 2013
It is crazy how much can happen in one year. I started 2013 feeling doubtful about my ability to run (and survive) a half marathon. And what happened? I finished two. I started 2013 in my “solo runner” mindset, convinced that it’s better to race alone so I can “run […]
Christmas 2013: It’s a Wrap
December 27, 2013
And just like that, the holidays are over. Did they always go so fast when we were younger? Or is this only something that happens once you have kids? Our morning started at 6:25am, when Buddy bounded into our room, begging to go downstairs. Desperate to let Mimi sleep a […]
My Holiday (Fitness) Wish List
December 19, 2013
Dear Santa, I know you have your hands full this year with my kids’ Christmas wish lists (I hope you’re on that Kindle Fire than Buddy keeps harassing me about, because I keep punting this one to you … and don’t forget about Mimi’s request for “pink toys”). But just […]
A Snowy Saturday in the City
December 17, 2013
I love the holidays, but every year, I find myself so bogged down in all the details and minutiae and obligations and preparations that sometimes I forget to sit back and actually, well, enjoy the season. And every December 26, I find myself wishing we’d had the time to squeeze in […]
Meal Planning (Week of Dec. 15)
December 15, 2013
It’s the most wonderful time of the year … until I try to button my pants. Seriously. Between the cookies and treats and parties and wine and you-name-it, I am feeling the extra holiday pounds a little early this year. It happens every year, and usually with a little extra ooomph at […]
One Year Later …
December 13, 2013
I went back and forth about whether to post anything about the first anniversary of the Newtown school shootings … an event that shook most parents, like me, to the core. Truthfully, I still can’t bear to think about that tragic day, even now, because when I do, the sorrow […]
Two Thumbs Up for LEGO KidsFest
December 10, 2013
Imagine walking into three acres of indoor space that was entirely dedicated to your favorite activity. (For me, that would be a “Beverly Hills, 90210” fan convention, for which I would have to break out my Brenda bangs and dust off my old Color Me Badd and Jeremy Jordan CDs.) […]
I’m One of the Babble 100!
December 9, 2013
I am still in a bit of shock. I was named of Babble’s 100 Best Bloggers of 2013. I am speechless. But mostly, I am humbled and proud that my little blog was recognized alongside the likes of some insanely talented — and well-established — bloggers. Seriously, what am I […]
Meal Planning (Week of Dec. 8)
December 8, 2013
I know, I know. I haven’t been very consistent with my meal planning lately. Honestly, it’s been nearly a month since I last posted my menu and workout plan. And I’m not sure why. I could come up with a litany of excuses: I’m still adjusting to the new routine. […]
An AWOL Elf and My Holiday Checklist
December 5, 2013
So the day we got back from our Thanksgiving trip to Pennsylvania, I ran down to the basement to unearth our Elf on the Shelf, Fisbee. For the past few years, ever since Fisbee “joined” our family one Christmas, he appears at our house sometime that afternoon we get back […]
12 Random Things I Learned Over Thanksgiving Weekend
December 2, 2013
Hi, friends! Hope you all had a wonderful holiday! We survived our five day trek to Pennsylvania over Thanksgiving. No one got car sick. We didn’t hit any traffic (thanks to our decision to leave at 3am on Wednesday morning). Buddy and Mimi actually (gasped) played together and didn’t harass […]
A 7-Year-Old’s Take on Thanksgiving
November 27, 2013
Last year, I sat down with Buddy and talked about Thanksgiving and what it meant to him. I was truly touched by his responses when I asked him what he was thankful for; they sort of caught me off guard by how thoughtful and sweet they were. This year? Hmm, […]
Gearing Up For Disney’s New Movie, FROZEN!
November 25, 2013
When we first saw the preview for the new Disney movie FROZEN about a month or so ago, I knew we had to see it. The movie fit two main requirements: (1) It has silly, funny characters (like Olaf the snowman) that my 7-year-old could relate to (he laughed out […]
A Busy Mom’s Best Friend: The Peapod Pick-Up Service at Stop & Shop {GIVEAWAY}
November 20, 2013
I really dislike grocery shopping. It ranks alongside cleaning the bathroom, emptying the diaper genie and folding laundry as one of my least favorite chores. But, alas, we must eat, and being the control freak that I am, I am usually the one who makes the trek to the grocery […]
Rockin’ Family Fun
November 19, 2013
Have you ever been to an indoor climbing gym? I went once, about a year ago, with the family and it was a lot of fun. Terrifying and nerve-wracking at times, but fun. Of course, Buddy was in heaven during that first visit, which isn’t surprising, since he was always […]
Meal Planning (Week of Nov. 17)
November 17, 2013
Yep, I know, I haven’t been posting my meal plans the last few weeks. And it’s not because we haven’t been following a meal plan, because we have. I just haven’t wanted to post it because … well … it’s been so boring. Sure, it’s (relatively) healthy. And fast and […]
Goodbye, Mommy; Hello, Mom
November 14, 2013
One of the moments I was dreading as a mom has happened. I’ve gone from “Mommy” to “Mom.” At least according to Buddy. It happened out of the blue a few weeks ago, almost like a switch had been flipped. One day I was “Mommy,” and the next day I […]
I Ran With the Zombies! (Race Recap)
November 8, 2013
So when my husband asked me a few months ago whether I wanted to run in a “zombie race,” I almost automatically said, “No freaking way.” But instead I agreed. And I’m so glad I did. Last weekend, Dr. G. and I, and two of our friends, ran […]
Why I Need My Girlfriends
November 5, 2013
Raise your hand if you have a dogeared copy of What to Expect When You’re Expecting on your bookshelf. [Raises hand]. I remember pouring over that book when I was pregnant with Buddy (and again nearly five years later when I was pregnant with Mimi, since I had forgotten everything […]
LEGO® KidsFest is Coming to New England! (Ticket Giveaway)
November 4, 2013
Update: This giveaway is now over. Congratulations Amy M.! It’s no secret: we’re huge LEGO® fans around here. (Remember this post?). And we also spent a wonderful day down at LEGOLAND in Florida back in the spring. So we’re all pretty excited that LEGO is bringing their LEGO KidsFest (basically a […]
Meal Planning (Week of Nov.3)
November 3, 2013
Okay, so here it is — the first meal/workout plan of what I’m calling “The New Routine.” (Not sure what I’m talking about? Click here.) I admit, I am insanely nervous about how it’s all going to work out. Will the kids be bears to wake up in the morning? […]
Saying Goodbye to Daycare
October 30, 2013
Dear Daycare: I cannot believe tomorrow is the last time I will walk through your doors and pick up one of my kids. I have avoided thinking about this moment for the last few weeks — basically, as soon as I made the decision to take the plunge and pursue […]
Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes
October 24, 2013
Isn’t it crazy how now one change, one decision, can trigger a whole domino effect? That’s what’s happening now. But it’s all good. As I’ve been alluding to over the past week, I am leaving my current job, where I’ve been for more than six years … ever since Dr. […]
Squeaking By With a New PR at the Baystate Half Marathon (Race Recap)
October 22, 2013
I did it! Half marathon No. 2 — the Baystate Half Marathon — is officially in the books. And I learned one very important lesson. I am a very consistent runner. How consistent? I finished … get this … 4 seconds faster than my last half marathon in May (and […]
Meal Planning (Week of Oct. 20)
October 20, 2013
Happy Sunday, friends! As many of you know, I am running a half marathon today(stay tuned tomorrow for a recap!), which I feel is the perfect lead-in to help me get back on track with meal planning, which I have definitely been pretty lax about lately. One reason: This fall […]
Goals for the Baystate Half Marathon
October 18, 2013
Only 48 hours to go until half marathon #2 is in the books. And I am insanely nervous. For my first half, it was (mostly) all about finishing in one piece, plain and simple. Sure, I had a time goal in mind, but just being able to accomplish this feat […]
My Second Tufts 10K for Women {Race Recap}
October 16, 2013
So when I initially signed up for the Tufts 10K for Women, I thought, How convenient! It’s the weekend before my half marathon, when I need to be tapering anyway! I’ll just go into thinking of it as an easy training run. I just want to finish strong, I don’t […]
Stocking Up for Fall at Kohl’s Grand Opening Sale (Plus Win a $100 Kohl’s Gift Card!) {Giveaway}
October 7, 2013
I won’t admit how often I shop at Kohl’s. Let’s just say it’s a lot. For one reason, there is a store 10 minutes from my house. And since shopping for me has to be a multitasking experience, I love that I can run in and grab a mixing […]
Meal Planning (Week of Oct. 6)
October 6, 2013
Here’s how I know it’s time to get back on the meal planning wagon: my dinners over the past week have largely consisted of cereal and pizza. It’s like being in college again. But that’s what happens when you travel for four to five days and come home on a […]
Our Ambitious Mini-Vacation
October 3, 2013
I have come to the conclusion that it is impossible for me to have a leisurely vacation. Instead, I am one of those people who tends to pack in as many activities and visits as possible because I don’t want to “miss” anything. And, let’s face it, even though I […]
Back to Baltimore
September 26, 2013
As I mentioned in Monday’s post, we are headed out of town this weekend. First stop? My father-in-law’s birthday/retirement celebration in Pennsylvania, followed by 48 hours in Baltimore – a city that plays a pretty significant role in the history of my little family. I don’t know if I’ve ever […]
Trophy Mom (Race and Weekend Recap)
September 23, 2013
Yay! It’s officially fall! Now I can break into the many, many cans of pumpkin that I’ve been hoarding in my pantry. For some reason, it felt strange to enjoy the pumpkiny deliciousness while the calendar said it was still summer. Anyway, this past weekend jam-packed with all sorts of […]
Happy 7th Birthday, Buddy
September 20, 2013
Dear Buddy, Tomorrow you turn 7 years old! It’s pretty remarkable how much you have grown – physically, intellectually and emotionally – in the past year. There have been so many milestones, like being able to read books all by yourself and do math and tell time and and ride […]
10 Bittersweet Mom Moments I’m Kind of Dreading
September 18, 2013
Back in the summer, I wrote a guest post for Scary Mommy about the 10 moments I’m dreading as a mom (which has almost 10,000 shares on Facebook and was tweeted more than 500 times! How crazy is that!?!). For those who have read it, you’ll see it’s a little more, […]
Half Marathon Training Update
September 16, 2013
Happy Monday! Sorry for not posting a meal plan this week; I realized I needed a technology-free weekend. And I admit, it felt good to unplug. I need to do that more often. I thought today I’d provide an update on my half marathon training, since I have 4 weeks […]
Adios to Summer Running
September 9, 2013
It’s no secret: I don’t like summer running. Sorry. I know some people love getting a full sweat on when it’s 90 degrees, but I’m not one of them. Give me a Turkey Trot or a 50-degree run surrounded by New England foliage any day. Now that the official start […]
Weekly Meal and Exercise Plan + Aug. Mileage Total
September 8, 2013
Good morning! It feels like ages since I put together a real meal plan. The last couple of weeks leading up to the start of school have been crazy, between days off from work to cover what I call the “camp-school bridge week” and nearly a week of a sick […]
Win a Mosaic Photo Book!
September 5, 2013
Okay, so raise your hand if you are horrible about printing photographs [raising hand wildly]. I’ll go out on a limb and say I’m not the only one. For me, it started with my first digital camera a decade or so ago, when I would only get photos printed when […]
Hello, First Grade!
September 4, 2013
My little guy started first grade yesterday. In many ways, it was kind of uneventful; after all, he’s done the whole full-day, riding-the-school-bus thing. He knows a few boys in his class and has already met his teacher. So I guess it’s not surprising that he jumped on the bus, found […]
Win a ZAZOO Kids Photo Clock! (Giveaway)
September 3, 2013
We’re on borrowed time. Mimi is 2 years and 3 months old and has shown absolutely no interest in sleeping anywhere besides her crib (and my bed, on occasion). She hasn’t once tried to climb out—unlike her brother, who had figured out how to get himself out and showed up […]
Happy Blogiversary! (What I Learned In My First Year)
August 29, 2013
Happy Birthday (or is it “Blogiversary”?) to me! Keeping Mommy Sane is now officially one year old! I can’t believe an entire year has gone by since I started this little venture, which was initially intended to be a creative outlet, a place where I could unleash my inner writer […]
Operation “Organize Kids’ Artwork”
August 28, 2013
You ever have a household chore you’ve been putting off forever because the idea of it sounds so, I don’t know, unappealing? For me, that project is the piles and piles of my kids’ artwork and schoolwork that I’ve been collecting over the past, um, five or six years. I […]
Date Night!
August 27, 2013
I love getting dressed up. I love having an excuse to experiment with makeup, actually blow dry my hair and dig out those dresses collecting dust in the back of my closet. But like most moms, “fancy” nights out aren’t exactly common – and if they do happen at all, […]
A Creature of Habit
August 22, 2013
My longtime readers have probably figured this out already, but when it comes to running, I’m a bit of a Type A creature of habit. Okay, that may be an understatement. Let’s review: I run at either 5:30am (for weekday short runs) or around 9am (for weekend long runs). That’s […]
Hear Ye, Hear Ye! Win Tickets to King Richard’s Faire! (Giveaway)
August 20, 2013
I have a confession to make: I kind of have a thing for the whole Renaissance and Elizabethan eras. I have read “The Other Boleyn Girl” and all of the other Phillippa Gregory’s historical novels from that time period at least a dozen times. I love movies like Elizabeth, Shakespeare […]
Meal and Exercise Plan and an At-Home Boot Camp Workout!
August 18, 2013
Ever have a week when you’re just not into meal planning? That’s where I’m at. Maybe it’s just me, but if I repeately eat similar foods, then I develop an aversion to them, and I have to avoid them for awhile. So I don’t know if I can do another […]
Training For My Second Half Marathon
August 16, 2013
Here we go again! In 10 weeks, I will be running my second half marathon – the Baystate Half Marathon in Lowell, Mass.!! I admit, I was pretty psyched with how my first half went, both in terms of my training and my performance on race day, but it was a little lonely. This time […]
Waving the “Mommy Wars” White Flag
August 14, 2013
If I read one more story about the “working mom” vs. “stay at home mom” debate, I may scream. Enough already, okay? Every time a new expose or analysis or commentary comes out, or some pundit or “expert” starts shooting off his or her mouth, it stirs up a brand […]
Falmouth Road Race Recap
August 12, 2013
I can now officially say I’ve done the Falmouth Road Race! It was everything friends and others have been saying for weeks: a beautiful 7 mile seaside course, incredibly supportive spectators, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I am trying to focus on that, and not the fact that it was a tough […]
Meal and Exercise Plan (Week of August 11)
August 11, 2013
Reunited and it feels so good! Yup, the band is finally back together. Buddy returned from his week at Grandma’s and Dr. G. returned from his week of work travel. And I survived a week of clean eating! Hurrah! Time to keep the fam in mind with this week’s meal […]
Gearing up for the Falmouth Road Race!
August 9, 2013
Sunday is the New Balance Falmouth Road Race and I’m gonna say it … I’m kind of nervous! When I signed up for the race in the spring and got selected for the lottery, I was thrilled and thought this would be a piece of cake. I mean, I would […]
Confessions of a Negative Nellie
August 6, 2013
I miss my boy. Buddy is spending the week at his Grandma’s house in Pennsylvania, something he has been sooooo excited about. And, frankly, it’s something we’ve been excited about too. Because he’s been a handful lately. Does this happen to all school-age kids in the summer? I don’t know […]
Meal Planning and a New August Challenge
August 4, 2013
Good morning! It’s nice to be back with meal planning after a fun week off with the family! One thing I love/hate about vacation: eating out at restaurants for most meals. On one hand, I love it because (a) I don’t have to cook, and (b) I often get to […]
What I Love (and Hate) About Body Pump
July 31, 2013
I have been doing Body Pump on-and-off for about nine years now. Not familiar with it? It’s basically a one-hour weight-based group fitness class that’s broken up into different “tracks” targeting the major muscle groups: squats, chest, back, triceps, biceps, lunges, shoulders and abs. In most cases, you’re working with […]
Taking a Bite out of the Big Apple
July 30, 2013
When I was 22 years old — a month after I graduated from college — I moved to New York City to work at a magazine. It’s funny, whenever people ask me about my time in Manhattan, they always use movie or TV references: “Was working at the magazine like […]
Pinch Me: I’m Women’s Running Magazine’s “Blogger on the Run”
July 25, 2013
This is so crazy. Me? Featured by Women’s Running magazine? Seriously? I was shocked, thrilled and – yes – honored when I was contacted by the magazine to be interviewed and featured as one of their “Bloggers on the Run” because I couldn’t believe they wanted to include me. So many […]
What I Learned From My Half Marathon
July 24, 2013
In a few weeks, just after the Falmouth Road Race, it will be time to start training for half marathon #2: the Baystate Half Marathon in Lowell, Mass. Part of me can’t believe I’m doing this all over again … and another part of me is so excited and curious […]
Setting Sail with the Family and Bigelow Tea
July 23, 2013
Disclaimer: I am a member of the Collective Bias® Social Fabric® Community. This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias and their client. As many of you know, I am a bit of a caffeine junkie, but during the summer, my caffeine […]
Meal Planning (Week of July 21)
July 21, 2013
Happy Sunday, friends! I warn you that this going to be a quick post. We are headed out on a cruise around Boston harbor today (and I cannot get that Gwyneth Paltrow/Huey Lewis song “Cruisin’” out of my head! Gahhhh!) so I need to squeeze in my run and get […]
A Tale of Two Naptimes
July 16, 2013
Mommy’s Perspective I love when I get Mimi’s daily report from daycare and it says, “Nap: 1-3:30pm.” How? For the love of God, how do they do that? Do they drug her? Bribe her? Or does she just love sleeping on a mat on the floor? Because I cannot get […]
Meal Planning (Week of July 14)
July 14, 2013
Last week was a so-so week, in terms of meal planning and workouts. We had a few bumps in the road that derailed us a bit (I felt kind of crummy after my colonoscopy, we had a sick pup on Thursday night and had to make an emergency run […]
Thankful Thursday: Colonoscopies … Really, They’re Not So Bad
July 11, 2013
I’m not very consistent with my “Thankful Thursday” posts, but this is one I really want to share. This week, I am thankful for my GI care team and for medical tests, like colonoscopies, that keep a watchful eye on my ulcerative colitis and ensure I stay healthy …. and […]
Family Fun at Fenway Park
July 10, 2013
I think it’s safe to say we are a family of baseball fanatics. I have been a Red Sox fan since I was a little girl, and as Dr. G. or any of my male friends will attest, I know my stuff. He and I have been to countless games […]
I’ve Lost My Running Mojo
July 9, 2013
Have you seen it? Because I haven’t, not since my half marathon back in May. I’ve written about the post-race, running blahs before, so maybe that’s all this is. Or maybe it’s the recent wave of scorching heat and humidity, which turned a simple 5 mile run into a sweaty, […]
Meal Planning Week of July 8
July 8, 2013
Have you ever gone grocery shopping when you’re hungry? Well, try writing a meal planning blog post when you’re on a 24-hour liquid diet. Ugh. I have to have a medical procedure later this morning (more to come on that later this week), which means I haven’t been allowed any […]
31 Day Drink More Water Challenge
July 1, 2013
Drinking water. Such an easy, simple task, right? Then why is it so incredibly hard for me? I am well-versed on the health and fitness benefits of water. I know that proper hydration is critical to, well, pretty much everything. I bring a full water bottle with me to work […]
Farewell, Google Reader! Hey There, Bloglovin’!
June 28, 2013
In case you haven’t heard the news, Google Reader is closing down for good — for real, this time — in just a few days (July 1). And by shutting down, I mean you won’t be able to see or read anything. So basically, if you use Google Reader for […]
Currently …
June 27, 2013
I’ve spotted these “Currently…” surveys on a number of other blogs and thought it looked like fun! Plus, I’m in a playful mood, since I am playing hooky from work today to spend a fabulous day of mini-golf and ice cream with my best guy before camp starts on Monday. […]
Local Road Races: Love ‘Em or Hate ‘Em?
June 24, 2013
Update 6/25/13: The timing company corrected the results online. Yay! Ahh, local road races. We’ve had so many good times together over the past year. Like this . And this. And then this happened. Hello, my name is Runner 940. Boo. So let me back up. Even though I woke […]
Favorite Things Friday: Ava Anderson Non-Toxic Sun Care Products (GIVEAWAY)
June 21, 2013
Woo-hoo! Happy First Day of Summer!!! The temperature here in Massachusetts has finally hit 80 degrees again, so it actually looks – and feels – like summer! I posted my Summer Bucket List a few days ago, and nearly all of these are outside activities, like the beach, mini golf, […]
My 2013 Summer Bucket List
June 19, 2013
It’s hard to forget, given the unseasonably chilly (and rainy) weather we’ve had here in New England last week, but it’s true: the official start of summer is just a few days away. All I have do is look at the calendar, and I see Buddy’s last day of school […]
I’m a Scary Mommy Today!
June 18, 2013
I’m a Scary Mommy today! Huh? Confused? If you don’t know Jill’s very popular, poignant and pee-your-pants funny blog, Scary Mommy, then you are missing out. Because her blog makes me laugh hysterically, or tear up, on a daily basis. I’m very excited to be guest posting on Scary Mommy […]
Meal Planning (Week of June 16)
June 16, 2013
Yay! It’s CSA farm share time! I took Mimi with me on Thursday to our town’s community farm to pick up our loot. So exciting! This week’s bounty included an interesting mix of some of my favorites (broccoli, romaine, swiss chard, bok choy), some of my least favorites (beets) and […]
Roll Up Those Sleeves! World Blood Donor Day is June 14
June 13, 2013
Does anyone else remember those blood drives in high school? For so many of us, it was an excuse to get out of class, lay down for a little while and enjoy some juice and cookies. But I kept donating blood, even after high school, because I liked knowing I […]
Rocking Out with the Tooth Tunes One Direction Toothbrush
June 12, 2013
I am part of the Mom It Forward blogger network and was compensated by ARM & HAMMER™ Tooth Tunes™ for participating in this campaign. However, all thoughts and opinions are – as always – my own. I’m lucky that my son never makes a fuss about brushing his teeth. The hard part is […]
The Case of the Missing Kindergarten Graduation
June 11, 2013
So do school years usually fly by this fast? It didn’t seem that way when I was a student, but now that Buddy is a bonafide grade schooler, September to June went by in a flash. I can’t believe he is almost done with kindergarten. How did that happen? He’s […]
Birthdays and Races and Bubbles, Oh My!
June 10, 2013
Whew! Talk about a whirlwind weekend! We started things off on Friday night with the birthday girl, who enjoyed quite the feast on her special day. Because it’s not every day a girl turns 2, right? And, to top it off, it was National Donut Day! Talk about serendipity. So […]
A Letter To Mimi on Her Second Birthday
June 7, 2013
Dear Mimi, I still remember the first time I laid eyes on you. You were still in my tummy, and the ultrasound technician had told me the most wonderful news I’ve ever heard: It’s a girl. I was really going to have a little girl. You. The day you appeared […]
Better Together: My Summer Style
June 6, 2013
This post is part of a DailyBuzz Moms Tastemaker program with P&G. All text and opinions are my own. Shopping for warm weather clothes to wear on our Disney trip a few months ago had an unexpected benefit: my summer wardrobe is complete. This year, I have been […]
10 Things I Refuse to Feel Guilty About
June 4, 2013
So Wednesday’s post got me thinking about those two dirty words: mommy guilt. I know, I know, countless articles and blog posts have already been written about it. But what always strikes me as ironic about mommy guilty is that it’s self-imposed. No one is standing there, wagging a finger in […]
Awkward Spaces
June 3, 2013
I am not a home design or architecture expert by any means, but I just don’t understand why builders create homes with such awkward or unusable spaces. Like those random nooks and crannies or teeny, shallow closets or rooms that are too small to really serve a purpose. This is […]
Meal Planning: Week of June 2
June 2, 2013
The last few weeks have been up-and-down when it comes to meal planning, but that is about to end for two reasons: T-ball is over next week (which means our weekday schedules resumes some normalcy) and our CSA (community supported agriculture) farm share starts next week! This is the first […]
Buddy’s Favorite Things
May 31, 2013
First, I wanted to say hello to those of you who are visiting Keeping Mommy Sane from my week on Boston.com Moms! Welcome! This edition of “Favorite Things Friday” is brought to you today by Buddy. Back on his 6th birthday, I asked him a series of questions , and was […]
“I Missed You, Mommy”
May 29, 2013
They’re just four little words, but they were like a dagger to the heart. Especially when they come from an almost two-year-old. I’m not quite sure she fully understood what she was saying, or if she was merely mimicking the same thing I had said to her a half hour […]
My First Half Marathon! (Race Recap)
May 28, 2013
I am still in a bit of shock. I did it. I am a half marathoner.Who would have thought? So let me back up and recap the day, and then I’ll share some of my emotions and thoughts about Boston’s Run to Remember. And I apologize in advance – this […]
Exciting News!
May 27, 2013
Happy Monday! I know some of you may be looking for my half marathon recap – stay tuned for that tomorrow (I think I’m still processing it all). In the meantime, I have some exciting news to share … this week I am the Featured Parent Blogger on Boston.com Moms! […]
It’s Go Time
May 25, 2013
Here it is. It’s Go Time. Everything is all laid out and ready go to when that alarm goes off at – gulp – 5am tomorrow morning. I’ve been training for months for tomorrow’s race. I think I can honestly say this is one of the biggest challenges I’ve ever […]
Alone At Last
May 23, 2013
A couple of years ago, Dr. G. and I decided that to celebrate our wedding anniversary, we’d spend the night at a hotel in Boston where we could relive some of our days when we were carefree, young twenty-somethings, newly dating and without many responsibilities. I think we both thought […]
Why You May Need a Stroller for Your “Big Kid” at Disney World
May 22, 2013
When we were planning our recent trip to Disney World, Dr. G. and I seemed to be in agreement on most of the logistics — when to go, where to stay, where to eat, etc. The only thing we butted heads on was whether or not to get a stroller […]
Fighting My Inner Mama Bear
May 21, 2013
I’d like to think I’m not an overprotective mom. Cautious, yes, but not overprotective. But lately, well, I don’t know. There’s been Newtown. The Colorado movie theater shooting. The Boston Marathon bombing. The Ohio kidnappings. And now, the heartbreaking story of the devastating tornado in Oklahoma. Maybe it’s the constant, […]
Meal Planning (Week of May 19)
May 19, 2013
I know I’ve mentioned it before, but this new spring schedule has made meal planning a real challenge. Two nights a week Buddy and Coach Dad have T-ball, smack in the middle of dinnertime (6pm). Mimi and I try to get to the the Tuesday night game, which basically means […]
Come Sail Away
May 17, 2013
Thanks to our big Disney/Florida trip, we are planning to be pretty low-key this summer when it comes to travel. We may spend a few days in New Hampshire but I think we’ll mostly enjoy a “staycation.” I personally love “staycations.” It gives you a chance to visit attractions or […]
Honeymoon (Mis)Adventures and Lessons Learned
May 15, 2013
Last week, I wrote about our European misadventures, and how I realized my husband might be “the one.” But the story of our travel history would not be complete without the travel debacle that was our honeymoon. I admit we made complicated travel arrangements because we had kind of a […]
Welcome to the Pit
May 14, 2013
It officially hit me this morning. My house is a pit. A sty. A mess. An eyesore. A disaster. And here’s my confession: it looks like this most of the time. Trust me, I am not one of those people who complains about her “messy house” when there’s one dirty […]
Mother’s Day Giveaway: The Big Book of Martinis for Moms
May 10, 2013
Note: I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review but, as always, all opinions and text are my own. We all know a certain holiday honoring moms is just around the corner. Sure, it’s great to have one day on the calendar when we get brunch/cards/flowers or […]
How Bad Travel Karma Revealed My Future Husband
May 8, 2013
Today is my ninth wedding anniversary. I have been married for nine years. It sounds like such a cliché, but it really does just feel like yesterday. Other than the fact that we look like babies in the photo above. I may not recall what I fed the kids for […]
Grand Opening of Boston’s Flagship Walgreens Store
May 7, 2013
Note: I was invited to the opening of the Walgreens store opening by Collective Bias®. I was compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias ™ and Walgreens #CBias #SocialFabric. All opinions are my own. I miss city living. I miss being able to walk to […]
Meal Planning (and Half Marathon Training): Let’s Try This Again (Week of May 5)
May 5, 2013
Um, yeah, it’s been awhile since I sat down and planned our weekly meals … never mind posted them here on my blog. Much of that is because we were on vacation for 10 days, then it took us longer than we expected to acclimate when we got home. But […]
Legoland and the Beach … Now THIS is Vacation (Part Four)
May 3, 2013
After spending seven busy, bustling and hectic days in Disney World (see recaps here, here and here), we jumped into our rental car and drove the 45 minutes went to Winter Haven, Florida. I’ve written here in the past about my son’s utter obsession with everything Lego. Honestly, I think […]
Our Disney World Vacation: Disney Resorts and Dining (Part Three)
May 2, 2013
Are you Disney-ed out yet? The good news is that this is the last Disney-related recap; the next one will cover the last few days of our vacation, which took us to nearby Legoland and not-so-nearby Ft. Lauderdale. In case you missed the first two installments, here they are: Park […]
Our Disney World Vacation: Meeting the Characters (Part Two)
May 1, 2013
So this is the second of my posts about our recent Disney World/Florida vacation. In case you missed Part One, here’s the link. When we were planning the trip, the one concern I kept coming back to is How is Mimi going to deal with the characters? This is the […]
Our Disney World Vacation: The Parks and Other Adventures (Part One)
April 30, 2013
Here it is: the first of my recaps on our recent Disney and Florida vacation. As a Disney newbie, figuring out which parks to hit when was really overwhelming. Could I do two parks in one day? Would I need to take Mimi back to nap? Which parks has extended […]
James Joyce Ramble 10K Recap (Birthday Edition)
April 29, 2013
We did it! I finished my 3rd James Joyce Ramble yesterday! I have a soft spot in my heart for this particular race. It’s one of the only races Dr. G. and I can run together, due to kiddo logistics. It’s also the very first race we ever ran together, back […]
Disney Detox
April 25, 2013
So I had every intention of trying to eat healthy while on vacation. Sure, I told myself, I can indulge in a treat here and there, but most of the time I’ll make good, nutritious choices. [Cue hysterical laughter] Yes, I realize now I was being slightly delusional. That’s not […]
Reflections on Boston
April 24, 2013
Hello, readers! I am back after 10 days of fun in the sun down in Florida – the long-awaited trip St. Nick surprised the kiddos with at Christmas. I have a bunch of posts planned with my thoughts and reviews on our hotels, the parks, traveling with a toddler and […]
What’s In My Makeup Bag
April 22, 2013
I fell in love with makeup as a little girl. When I was in elementary school, my aunt would break out the frosted blue eye shadow and make my sister and I up just for fun (a la the mid-1980s). I remember sitting there, all wiggly and anxious to check […]
My “Amazing Race”
April 17, 2013
I rarely watch TV anymore. However, the one show I tune into religiously (whether it’s in real time or on DVR) is “The Amazing Race.” (And I will deny that it has anything to do with my crush on host Phil Keoghan). Dr. G. and I always say that if […]
Favorite Things Friday: Albion Fit (Review and Giveaway!)
April 12, 2013
I don’t know about you, but I have a hard time finding workout shirts that I like. The tight compression-style shirts hug my rolls curves a little too much and just make me feel uncomfortable. Meanwhile, the looser-fitting tops drive me nuts, especially when you can feel them bouncing up and […]
Thankful Thursday
April 11, 2013
Each week, my pal Joanna at Baby Gators Den hosts a Thankful Thursday link-up — an opportunity for all of us to stop and reflect on all the good things in our lives, from the silly to the mundane to the more serious. I need to do this more often. […]
I Love Coffee (Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Wellness Collection Review and Giveaway)
April 8, 2013
I have a slight obsession with the movie “Anchorman.” I could watch that movie over and over again. So. Freaking. Funny. I can also relate to Ron Burgundy and his declaration of love for scotch, except (like most harried moms) my love affair is with coffee. Coffee, coffee, coffee. One […]
How I’m Trying to Love My Post-Kid Body
April 2, 2013
Stretch marks. Saggy boobs. Thinner hair. A lower tummy pooch that never goes away no matter how many crunches you do. So much has been written about the horrible ways that giving birth and becoming a mother “ruins our bodies.” We complain how our bodies are “never the same.” We […]
Meal Planning and Half Marathon Training (Week of March 31)
March 31, 2013
We’ve officially entered uncharted territory. Yesterday was my Longest. Run. Ever. 8 miles. That is more than halfway to 13.1! I remember seeing my Garmin click past the 7 mile mark and I smiled to myself. It was a gorgeous day and I felt really good heading out, which surprised […]
Potty Training at Disney World (Am I Crazy?)
March 29, 2013
I haven’t written much about Miss Mimi lately. I think it’s because I can’t keep up with how much she has grown these last few months – it really is incredible. She’s talking in “sentences,” drinking from a “big girl cup,” and her vocabulary (and what she’s able to understand […]
A Fashion Dilemma: What to Wear in Disney World
March 27, 2013
I know from talking to countless friends that fashion and Disney are two concepts that usually don’t go together. As we prepare for our upcoming trip, everyone has been stressing to me that the most important thing is to be comfortable (I can hear the collective groan now from Stacy […]
The Disney Countdown is On
March 25, 2013
It’s going to be an all-Disney kind of week here on Keeping Mommy Sane. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. But with our trip rapidly approaching, I decided the time had come for some sort of Disney countdown calendar as a visual reminder for the kiddos. Not because they’ve […]
Getting Back on Track: Meal Planning (Week of March 24)
March 24, 2013
I’d like to say my meal planning has been on hiatus. That’s a good way of thinking about it. Things have been super busy lately, so rather than stressing over sticking to our meal plan I decided to be realistic and “go with the flow” until things settle down. […]
Favorite Things Friday: Kimberly Parry Organic Skin Products for Mom & Baby (ENDED)
March 22, 2013
I am a product junkie. Makeup, lotions, eye creams, hair serums, perfume, you name it. My bathroom is cluttered with them (sorry, Dr. G.) But I can’t help it – I walk into stores like Sephora and I’m like a kid in a candy shop. But now I’ve been finding […]
The Unexpected Ways Motherhood Has Changed Me
March 20, 2013
My post for The Bump this week reveals how motherhood has changed my relationship with scary movies. Okay, you’re probably sitting there thinking, “Huh?” But stay with me – I’ll explain. I used to love our junior high sleepovers, where we’d gather in a friend’s basement with our sleeping bags, […]
Shamrock Shuffle Recap & My Half Marathon Training Plan
March 18, 2013
My recap of Saturday’s Shamrock Shuffle 5K is going to be brief. Here’s what you need to know: it was cold. Like 35 degrees. I know that’s nothing to some hard core runners, but to people like me, that is frigid. And incredibly unpleasant. Thankfully, the race is literally five […]
Favorite Things Friday: Old Friends
March 15, 2013
Forgive me for being sentimental this week, but instead of a favorite thing, I’m going to talk about a favorite person. D and I met in college and have been friends for nearly 20 years, which is so crazy to think about. It really seems like yesterday. She was the […]
Ras na hEireann 5K Recap
March 12, 2013
First race of 2013? Done. How do I feel about the results? Meh. I went into the Ras na hEireann 5K with minimal expectations – or at least that’s what I told people (and kept trying to convince myself). Because here were the facts: It’s the first race of the year. […]
Shopping for Disney-Friendly Easter Fashion with Cookie’s Kids
March 11, 2013
With all the snow we’ve been having up here in New England (two more feet on Friday!), the idea of shopping for cute, spring-like Easter outfits for the kiddos seems kind of foreign. I’m still inclined to dress them in turtlenecks and snow pants. But the reality is that Easter […]
Meal Planning (Week of March 10)
March 10, 2013
It’s been a few weeks since I posted our weekly meal plan here. We went through one of those phases where it seems like every night there was something happening after school or work, making it tricky to cook and serve dinner like we usually do. But rather than eating […]
Favorite Things Friday: cooksimple Meals (Review and Giveaway!) – ENDED
March 8, 2013
As many of you know, I’ve been trying to be good about planning my family’s meals each week (although I’ve been kind of a slacker recently!). My goal is to serve healthier food, manage our grocery budget and eliminate the stressful guesswork that comes when you get home at the […]
Liar, Liar: 10 Lies I’ve Told My Kids
March 6, 2013
My 6-year-old caught me in a blatant lie last week. In a somewhat misguided effort to limit his TV viewing time, I made the offhanded comment several years ago that watching too much TV will turn you into a zombie. Yes, not one of my finest parenting moments. Of course, […]
Hello, 2013 Racing Season!
March 4, 2013
Finally! The 2013 racing season is almost here! Can you tell I’m excited?! This has been (and technically still is) a long winter of one treadmill run after another. Every time I was ready to head out on the weekend for a long run, we got another freaking snowstorm. And […]
A Much-Needed Long Weekend
March 4, 2013
Ever have that feeling where you just need to get out of town for awhile, slow things down and enjoy a change of scenery? That’s how I’d been feeling all during the month of February, which has been incredibly busy for all of us. Thankfully, we decided months ago to […]
Mac & Cheese, Baby
March 2, 2013
You know you love macaroni and cheese. Admit it. I often make this delicacy for the kids (every Friday, for those of you who follow my meal planning). I tell everyone that it’s one of their favorite meals. To be fair, it really is. But it’s secretly one of mine, […]
Favorite Things Friday: CORE Foods (and Giveaway) ENDED
March 1, 2013
I feel like I eat most of my meals “on the go.” Whether it’s scarfing down lunch at my desk or slurping a smoothie on the commute in the work, I always end up multitasking my meals, which I know is not really a good thing. And because of that, […]
Dinnertime is Storytime
February 27, 2013
As a writer, I like to consider myself a storyteller. When Buddy was small, we would sometimes make up stories at bedtime, rather than selecting a tale from his vast library of Dr. Seuss and Little Golden books. And it appears he is a chip off the old block. A few […]
Oscar Fashions 2013: Hit or Miss?
February 25, 2013
I’m not quite sure what to think of last night’s red carpet fashions. Where were the trends? The only thing I noticed was a lot of black/silver/gray combos, plenty of both white and gold gowns, and a few sprinkles of red. With few exceptions (Jennifer Aniston, Kerry Washington, Reese Witherspoon) […]
Favorite Things Friday: Woven the Photo Sharing App
February 22, 2013
I am really bad at deleting photos on my iPhone. Like, to the point where I’ve hit my storage capacity three or four times over the last few months and couldn’t take any more photos, download or update apps, etc. Hmm, could the 1,000+ photos on my Camera Roll have […]
Three’s Company: A February School Vacation Adventure
February 21, 2013
We’re officially more than halfway through school vacation week! When Dr. G. and I were mapping out our vacation coverage, I said I would take Wednesday, and hatched up a plan for Buddy and I to have a mommy/son day and venture over to the Museum of Science, where the […]
Raising A Little Boy: 10 Things I Wasn’t Prepared For
February 19, 2013
1.Who needs TV or toys when you have bodily noises and functions for your entertainment? Seriously, my child is a like a one-man band, with his various array of (real and pretend) burps and farts — which, of course, he finds totally hysterical. And as for the potty talk? Get […]
Meal Planning: Week of Feb. 17
February 17, 2013
It’s here: school vacation week. (Insert ominous music). Between our crazy schedule and work travel, this week’s menu is a little low-key: One of my best friends (who is also a total foodie) recommended the roasted garlic brussel sprouts recipe, so I am dying to try it. Whenever she […]
Favorite Things Friday: Fiber One Protein Bars
February 15, 2013
I think I have a post-Valentine’s Day chocolate hangover. Between the Hershey’s kisses and the incredible chocolate mousse cake Dr. G. brought home, I totally indulged on massive amounts of chocolatey goodness yesterday, and it was heavenly. But now it’s February 15. Back to reality. I still love my chocolate, […]
Thankful Thursday: Valentine’s Day Edition
February 14, 2013
This Valentine’s Day edition of Thankful Thursday is easy. I couldn’t have said it better myself, kiddo. Wishing you all a happy and chocolate-filled Valentine’s Day. This post is part of a Thankful Thursday collection over on my friend Joanna’s blog, Baby Gators Den. Be sure to check it out […]
The Great Goodie Bag Debate
February 13, 2013
I will go on the record and say I am not a fan of goodie bags. I (begrudgingly) understand they are a necessary birthday party evil, but do we really need them at daycare? The photo above represents what I am planning to send in tomorrow for Mimi’s class of […]
A Bittersweet Working Mom Moment
February 12, 2013
There are some days when I miss my kids terribly while I’m at work. I mean, to the point where I physically ache for them. Does it happen when we’ve had a rough drop-off at daycare that morning? Was Mimi clinging to my legs and crying big crocodile tears, begging […]
Dealing With Treadmill Boredom
February 11, 2013
In case you hadn’t heard, we got some snow here in New England. And just when I was starting to enjoy my outdoor long runs – even in the cold. Now it’s going to take weeks for the snow to melt off the sidewalks enough for me to feel comfortable […]
Meal Planning: Week of Feb. 10
February 10, 2013
Today’s lesson: a blizzard makes meal planning for the upcoming week a little tricky. I didn’t get to make my usual grocery store run, and when we finally emerged today after about 48 hours of being housebound, the stores were not exactly overflowing with tons of fresh produce or even […]
Blizzard Survival List
February 9, 2013
We have survived the Blizzard of 2013 … so far (I’m sorry, I refuse to call it Nemo). But the kiddos are already at each other, which means it is going to be a looooong day. That is why I will rely on our blizzard survival list: – Wine – […]
Favorite Things Friday: Valentine’s Day Activities For The Uncrafty Mom
February 8, 2013
I am not a crafty person. I can’t walk into Michael’s and grab a random basket of ribbon, felt, glue and stickers and come up with a pin-worthy masterpiece. Whenever I do, it looks like something my kindergartner made in art class. I don’t sew, either (besides fixing a loose […]
Thankful Thursday
February 7, 2013
Do you ever get so bogged down in the craziness that you forget to stop and reflect on all the good things in your life? Yep, me too. I try and teach my children about gratitude, yet I rarely talk about how grateful I am for what I have and […]
Are We Raising Unfriendly Kids?
February 6, 2013
My son has always been an outgoing, chatty guy. He earned the nickname “Mr. Mayor” as a toddler, and it still holds true today. He loves greeting people, and he’s as comfortable shooting the breeze with adults as he is with his peers. And he is shockingly good at remembering […]
My Spring 2013 Fashion Wish List
February 4, 2013
I did it! I managed to go one month without shopping. I’m sure most of you are rolling your eyes, but for me this is kind of a big deal. I’m going to try and make it until the end of February. I’ve totally got this, right? But just because […]
Meal Planning: Week of Feb. 2
February 3, 2013
Whoa, did I just write February? Was it me, or did January go by surprisingly fast? Anyway, we did pretty well last week with our meal planning; the tomato soup and “fancy” grilled cheese, in particular, was a bit hit (at least for the grown-ups). However, my poor stuffed peppers […]
Loving Some Tomato Soup and “Fancy” Grilled Cheese
February 2, 2013
This week, the shining gold star on our weekly menu was homemade creamy tomato soup and “fancy” grilled cheese. This is probably one of my favorite dinner combinations. Grilled cheese and tomato soup go together like chocolate and peanut butter. And chocolate and mint. And chocolate and … okay, I’ll […]
We’re Wearing Red Today
February 1, 2013
Mimi and I are proudly supporting Go Red For Women’s National Wear Red Day today. Why? It’s simple: Heart disease is the No.1 killer of American women, claiming the lives of more women each year than all forms of cancer combined. It’s a sobering statistic. I’ve been lucky – my […]
What’s In Your Bag?
January 31, 2013
I said goodbye to a good friend yesterday. The clasp broke on one of my favorite bargain finds: this Marc Jacobs-lookalike, Banana Republic Outlet bag. I bought it six months ago and it’s been my constant work companion since. I hate having to switch work bags (because I will inevitably […]
“Escape from Planet Earth” Movie Giveaway! (ENDED)
January 30, 2013
I love taking my son to the movies. Okay, part of it is has to do with having an excuse to eat candy and drink a 40 oz fountain Diet Coke. But mostly it’s because so many of the animated movies that have come out in recent years (“Despicable Me,” […]
Meal Planning: Week of January 27
January 27, 2013
Argh. It may not be articulate, but it’s the best way I can sum up last week’s meal planning. Our barriers? Hmm, let’s see. Sickness, sickness and – oh, yeah – sickness. So basically, we only ended up making a few things off last week’s menu. But thankfully, everyone (with […]
Addicted to Bangs
January 24, 2013
We’re here today to discuss a very serious topic. Me and my bangs. Okay, so this obviously is not a Very Important Post, but my bangs and I? We have had a long and tortured history. Or perhaps a love/hate relationship is more appropriate. Our relationship began with your typical […]
I Needed That
January 22, 2013
January has not been kind, fitness-wise. The kids have been sick, I have been sick. I have felt sluggish and slow. My workouts have been supbar at best. I’ve been terrified to run outside in the cold or when there’s a trace of snow on the ground, for fear my […]
Kindergarten Playdate Etiquette: Lessons Learned
January 21, 2013
This weekend, Buddy had his first official playdate with a friend from his kindergarten class. The whole thing was kind of strange. We got a voice message from the little boy the week before, which basically went like, “Hi, is Buddy home? Can we have a playdate on Friday?” No […]
Meal Planning: Week of January 20 (and a recipe)
January 20, 2013
Happy Sunday! I’m impressed by how closely we followed our meal plan last week. Now it could have been because Mimi was home sick a few days, which meant we had more time to prepare dinner. I find that we tend to deviate from the plan if we’re running late […]
Favorite Things Friday: “Where We Belong” (Book Review)
January 18, 2013
I don’t normally write book reviews, but I recently finished my second audio book and loved it so much that I had to share. Let’s set a few things straight. I love chick lit. I’m not embarrassed or ashamed by it. I don’t lie and claim to read nonfiction, biographies […]
What’s In a Name?
January 16, 2013
My fellow Rhody Blogger Carla at All of Me Now is launching a fantastic new weekly project called “Mom Before Mom.” Her goal? To recognize and honor the women we were before we became moms, to give our children a glimpse into our previous lives, and to share the stories […]
Golden Globes 2013 Fashion Review
January 15, 2013
First, a disclaimer: I did not watch the red carpet arrivals. These days, that is usually the only part of an awards show that I’ll actually watch. As a busy mom with little kids, a lack of babysitters and no premium cable channels, it’s highly unlikely that I’ve actually seen […]
When I Grow Up
January 14, 2013
When I was about six months pregnant with Mimi, I had a dream that she was going to be a singer. Not just a regular old karaoke-type singer. I mean a Broadway star with a hauntingly beautiful voice. The dream was so vivid and real that it actually gave me […]
Meal Planning: Week of January 13
January 13, 2013
I’m happy to report that we did a decent job with our return to meal planning last week. There was only one meal we didn’t get to make – penne with chickpeas – which we’ll recycle this week, just in time for New Food Monday. I’m hoping to ride the […]
Favorite Things Friday: Rhody Bloggers
January 11, 2013
About a month ago, I was invited to join a group of bloggers in the Rhode Island area (and surrounding Massachusetts). As a relatively new blogger, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to bounce ideas off of these ladies, pick their brains and basically have a support network of […]
Sleeping Like a Baby?
January 10, 2013
When Mimi was a newborn, she was a good sleeper. Make that a great sleeper. A phenomenal sleeper. Like idiots, we bragged about it to all our friends, telling everyone how she already sleeps through the night, how we have to wake her up for feedings, and, gosh, aren’t we […]
Operation Closet Redux
January 9, 2013
I recently issued the following challenge to myself: No buying clothes – of any kind – for two months. Okay. Deep breaths, deep breaths. Have you ever stopped to really consider your shopping profile? I did, and it was a little scary. Some facts I stopped denying realized: I am […]
13.1 or Bust! My 2013 Racing Schedule
January 7, 2013
Two years ago at a work holiday party, my colleagues and I played a game in which we had to list three future goals, and the group had to guess who the author was. Number one on my list was, “Run a half marathon.” Unsurprisingly, no one in my department […]
Meal Planning: Week of January 6
January 6, 2013
Oh, meal planning, I’ve missed you! The last few weeks have been utterly crazy, between the holidays, kids being home from school and a week of various house guests. To say we’ve subsided on junk food the last two weeks of 2012 would be an understatement. I think my entire […]
New Years Commitments
January 3, 2013
This year I decided I am making New Years commitments instead of resolutions. No more bold (and usually unrealistic) statements like “I’m going to lose those last five pounds!” or “No more carbs!” (items that have found their way on to my New Years Resolution list for the last, oh, ten […]
My 2013 Health and Fitness Bucket List
January 1, 2013
Happy New Year! Yesterday, I put on my runner’s visor for a look back at what was a fun and truly surprising year in terms of races and PRs and discovering my inner runner. But today, I am looking ahead to 2013 – and all the amazing possibilities and […]
2012: My Year in Running
December 31, 2012
This is the time of year when we’re all supposed to pause and reflect on all the highs (and lows) of the previous 350+ days, right? While this has been an incredible year for my family on so many different levels (Buddy starting kindergarten, Mimi transforming from a chubby infant […]
We’re Going to Disney World!
December 26, 2012
I love the day after Christmas. When I was younger, it was all about checking out all the toys and games that you were too overwhelmed to play with on Christmas Day. When I was older, it was about one thing: post-holiday bargains. I would line up outside of Filene’s […]
Happy Holidays!
December 24, 2012
From our family to yours! Hope the holiday brings a smile to your face … right, Mimi? 🙂
Favorite Things Friday: Christmas Edition
December 21, 2012
There are only five days (including today!) until Christmas, and I’m just not feeling it. I’m sure part (or most) of it has to do with last week’s tragedy, but even still, I’ve noticed that each year it gets harder and harder to get into the Christmas spirit – even […]
How Do You Get Out of a “Sticky Situation”? Wet Ones Wants to Know!
December 20, 2012
If you have kids, you have a mess. Somewhere. Maybe it’s in your house or in your car. Maybe it involves cookie crumbs or magic marker on the wall or sticky Popsicle hands (which are usually grasping the ends of your white linen curtains, right?). I’ll come right out and […]
A Trip to Mystic Aquarium’s Winter Waterland
December 19, 2012
Like many parents, I felt the instinctive need to keep my kids close to me at all times last weekend. So it worked out well that we already had plans to visit Mystic Aquarium’s “Winter Waterland” celebration in Mystic, CT on Saturday. I hadn’t been to that aquarium since I […]
An Open Letter to My Children’s Teachers
December 17, 2012
I’m not sure that I’ve said it yet, or if I’ll remember to say it in the future, but thank you. Thank you for doing more than just teaching my children their ABCs and multiplication tables and state capitals. Thank you for being their champion, their guardian, their protector for […]
Favorite Things Friday: A Sweet Red Quinoa Salad Recipe
December 14, 2012
Yes, you read that correctly. I’m sharing a recipe today for Favorite Things Friday. And it’s not any recipe. It’s one that I kind of created myself. Seriously. For those who’ve been following Keeping Mommy Sane, you know that this is not a food blog, save for my occasional New […]
Is There Such a Thing as Permanent Mommy Brain?
December 12, 2012
Do you ever have some days when you think, “Wow, I am really losing it”? I’ve been having those moments more and more frequently. Consider the following: Two weeks ago, I had to fill in for a traveling Dr.G. by bringing Buddy to the bus stop. I decided to save […]
Tackling Our Holiday Checklist
December 10, 2012
This weekend we finally got out Christmas tree. And – thankfully – it hasn’t fallen over yet (unlike last year’s catastrophe). But it made me realize that it’s now December 10 and there’s an awful lot of things left on my holiday to-list … and I’m not talking about shopping […]
Meal Planning: Week of Dec. 9
December 9, 2012
It’s never a good sign when Sunday night rolls around and it already feels like it’s been a long week. With that said, I’m going to make my best effort to stick to my meal and workout plan for this week, but I have a feeling that this crazy thing […]
Mimi + Elmo
December 8, 2012
It’s happened. Mimi has discovered Elmo. I take a bit of comfort in two things: (1) She bypassed the whole Barney phase, unlike her brother, who tortured us with that horrible song over and over, and (2) She discovered him later than Buddy, who I think was in a full-fledged […]
Favorite Things Friday: No Mom Jeans Here
December 7, 2012
I’m super excited to be a featured guest blogger on Nyopoly’s Style blog today! For those of you not familiar with Nyopoly, it’s kind of like is a Priceline for really cool accessories. It’s a members-only site (and free to register), and then you can negotiate your price on everything […]
A Different Kind of Anniversary: 10 Years with UC
December 3, 2012
Next week marks an unusual anniversary for me … one that, until now, I’ve been pretty private about. It was ten years ago that I was diagnosed with the autoimmune disease ulcerative colitis (UC). For those not familiar with UC, trust me: it’s not pretty. In a nutshell, your immune […]
Mom’s Solo Road Trip
December 2, 2012
Yesterday, I did something I don’t think I’ve ever done: gone on a relatively long road trip by myself. As in, no carsick kids. No one asking me “how much longer” or demanding snacks and juice boxes and tissues. Why the road adventure, you ask? A very special baby shower. […]
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Gifts for Him
November 30, 2012
Why is it sooooo hard to buy gifts for men? Every year I agonize over what to get Dr. G., not to mention our respective dads. You ask any of them what they want and the answer is always, “I don’t know.” And really. They. Don’t. Know. Sigh. Clothes are […]
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Gifts for Her
November 29, 2012
I love shopping for women, whether it’s moms, sisters, friends, etc. Because it’s kind of like shopping for yourself, no? So of all the gift guides, this one was the most fun to put together … and for anyone still looking to buy this girl a gift, know that I would be […]
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Gifts for Girls
November 28, 2012
I’ll offer the same caveat with my gift guide for girls as I did for the boys guide. Mimi is 18 months old (in a week) and pretty much every little girl we have to buy for is under the age of 5, so most of these items are geared […]
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Gifts for Boys (and Giveaway!)
November 27, 2012
As the mom to a six-year-old, it shouldn’t be too surprising that most of these gift ideas are geared toward boys between the ages of 5-12. It is the boy demographic I’m used to shopping for and, frankly, is the only one really on my radar, since we don’t have […]
Holiday Gift Guide 2012: Gifts For Teachers
November 26, 2012
I don’t know about you, but buying gifts for my kids’ teachers is pretty stressful. Do you get something personal, or something neutral? Do you spend a little more than you would normally would, as way of showing how much you appreciate them? Or does it look like you’re trying […]
Meal Planning: Week of Nov. 25
November 25, 2012
It’s so good to be home! While I enjoy visiting with my in-laws, I don’t always eat the healthiest when we’re down there. From fast food dinners on the drive down (plus pilfered Halloween candy, to ease the stress of a horrible 9-hour drive) to a pancake brunch to, oh […]
The Holiday Gift Guide is Coming!
November 25, 2012
Stay tuned next week for the first Keeping Mommy Sane Holiday Gift Guide! From Monday through Friday, I’ll share some of my top gift recommendations for the special people on your holiday shopping list – and there may be a giveaway or two! Tomorrow we’ll start with what I think […]
My Solo Turkey Trot: Running When Traveling
November 24, 2012
Greetings from Pennsylvania! We are still here in rural PA, celebrating an extended Thanksgiving with Dr. G.’s family. It was torture an adventure getting down here on Tuesday afternoon. We had horrific car accidents that tied up traffic, a mind-boggling decision by NY DOT to close two lanes of traffic […]
What Are You Thankful For?
November 22, 2012
This year, I tried a new exercise with Buddy. I asked him, “What are the things you are most thankful for this Thanksgiving?” His answers made me laugh … and warmed my heart. 1. Having a Grandma I love so much. 2. Having you, Daddy, Mimi and Raven. 3. My […]
Party of Four: Why I’m Pretty Sure We’re Only Having Two Kids
November 19, 2012
I am feeling surprisingly nostalgic right now. Why? It was at Thanksgiving two years ago that we announced to our families that we were expecting Mimi. We bought a “Big Brother” shirt for Buddy and we waited to see how long it would take our family members to see his […]
Favorite Things Friday: Healthy Road Trip Snacks for Kids
November 16, 2012
We’re hitting the road on Tuesday … along with millions of other Americans. We spend Thanksgiving down in Pennsylvania with Dr. G’s family, which means we have a seven hour car ride (if we’re lucky) ahead of us. I admit, it hasn’t been too painful the last few years, once […]
Young Love … Kindergarten Style
November 15, 2012
Buddy dropped a bombshell on us last night. “I have a girlfriend,” he announced. I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. So instead I decided to pry for more information. Turns out he and “Madison,” as I’ll call her, have told everyone in class – kindergarten, mind you – […]
Keeping Your Sanity During the Holidays
November 13, 2012
If you’re anything like me, the holidays are a flurry of activity from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. There are kid portraits to schedule and holiday cards to order and mail. There are gifts to purchase and hours spent wandering aimlessly around Target looking for stocking stuffers. There’s the mischievous Elf […]
Meal Planning: Week of Nov. 11
November 11, 2012
Hooray for normalcy! After surviving last week as a “single married mom,” I am beyond excited (thrilled? relieved? ecstatic?) to resume our typical routine this week – even if it’s not really typical, since Buddy doesn’t have school on Monday and Dr. G. gets Veterans Day off too. But compared […]
Favorite Things Friday: B-Amazing! Snack Bars (Giveaway) – ENDED
November 8, 2012
Granola, cereal, magic cookie, pumpkin, lemon, Lara, Luna … if something is in a bar-like form, someone in my family will eat it. Personally, I’m a fan of the convenience factor of wrapped, packaged bars: you throw one in your purse or diaper bag and you’re good to go. But […]
10 Reasons It’s Hard to be a Working Mom
November 8, 2012
As any working mom knows, some weeks are tougher than others. There are some days that go smoothly and you think, “Wow, I can do this!” But then there are days when you have an early morning meeting and need to scramble for bus coverage. Or you have to explain […]
Why I Need “Single Mom Pizza and Wine Night”
November 6, 2012
Today marks the end of day two of Dr. G’s week-long work trip (I won’t say where it is, because it’s too depressing – just think palm trees and pina coladas). But more importantly, it means we’ve hit the halfway mark; I’ve survived two full days of being a “married […]
Menu Planning: Week of Nov. 4
November 4, 2012
Meal/menu planning the last two weeks has been a challenge. And a bit frustrating. Last week we were preparing for Hurricane Sandy, so with the possibility of losing power looming over us, I decided to forgo meal planning. The last thing I wanted to do was buy a bunch of […]
Fitness Interrupted
November 4, 2012
I haven’t seen much of the gym lately. Or my running path. Or my sneakers. I’ve been sick for more than a week now with flu-like symptoms: congestion, coughing and a fabulous case of laryngitis that makes me sound like Kathleen Turner’s long lost sister. On top of that, we […]
Favorite Things Friday Giveaway: Win a Graco SnugRide Click Connect 40! (ended)
November 2, 2012
Last week, I attended my first-ever blogger event. Charlene from CharleneChronicles invited me and 12 other bloggers in the Boston area (all moms with little ones and/or who are currently expecting) to MiniLuxe in Wellesley to learn more about the new Graco® SnugRide® Click Connect™ 40 … and enjoy a […]
The Tooth Fairy vs. Hurricane Sandy
November 1, 2012
Two days after Buddy announced he had a “wiggly tooth,” it fell out – right as Hurricane Sandy swirled around us in Massachusetts. He was so excited! But the excitement soon turned into worry when he asked, “But Mommy, will the Tooth Fairy be able to fly during a hurricane?” […]
A Halloween Love Story
October 31, 2012
Halloween is generally not a time when people get all romantic and sentimental. Except for me and Dr. G. It was 12 years ago (almost to the day), that we met at a Halloween costume party in Boston. I was dressed as a hippie (after scoring some fantastic pieces at […]
A Day in the Life of a Busy Momma
October 30, 2012
This month, Healthy Living Blogs‘ Healthy Tuesday Feature focus is “A Day in the Life,” in which several HLB members chronicle an entire day, from that annoying morning alarm to bedtime. Other HLB members can also play along and we’ll link up our posts today. I thought this could be […]
An Accidental PR and a Big Day for B
October 29, 2012
It’s a gusty, rainy Monday morning here in Massachusetts, thanks to Hurricane Sandy. Anyone else have the “Grease” soundtrack stuck in their head? Or is that just me? While we still have power, I wanted to share a slightly belated recap of the Ladybug 5K race in Franklin that I […]
Favorite Things Friday: Fall Fashion Finds
October 26, 2012
It’s a Favorite Things Friday/Fall Fashion Finds edition. Gotta love the alliteration, right? I am not really a style blogger, but as I’ve said before, I love fashion – especially shopping for fall clothes. Something about the colors – gold, plum (and it’s “cousin,” oxblood), brown, orange – just speak […]
I Think I’m Finally Ready to “Live Pink”
October 24, 2012
October is almost over, and while for some it means Halloween is almost here and Thanksgiving is four weeks away and there are only 62 shopping days until Christmas (gah!), it also means National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is drawing to a close. By now, the pink ribbon (which celebrates […]
New Food Monday: Full of Falafel
October 23, 2012
As I mentioned last week, I am only going to dedicate entire posts to New Food Monday if they are a resounding success. Which means – you guessed it – we found a winner last night! It was nothing fancy. We cooked these bad boys up. Then we put out […]
Meal Plan: Week of October 22
October 21, 2012
I am going to come right and out say say it: this is not going to be an easy week for sticking to our meal plan (part of Laura and Jill‘s Meal Planning Challenge for October.) As we get deeper into the school year, our calendar just seems to fill up more and […]
Sweat Pink Blog Swap: She’s a Marathon Mom
October 21, 2012
Today I have the honor of welcoming the lovely Denise from RunDMT. Denise and I were paired up as part of a Sweat Pink Ambassador blog swap that our SPA sister Jill coordinated, and I definitely consider myself lucky to have her as my partner. If you read her post […]
Favorite Things Friday: 5 “Healthy” Sweet Treats
October 19, 2012
I have a sweet tooth. And a chocolate addiction. And I find it hard to pass up bakery treats – especially cake. In fact, I think I’m programmed to need something sweet after dinner. Gee, I wonder where my kids get it from? Unfortunately (or fortunately?), I usually feel like […]
A New Home
October 17, 2012
Okay, I’m taking the plunge and transferring web hosting servers. As a result, my blog might be down for a bit while the kinks are worked out and a lot of other tech-y things happen behind the scenes. If that happens, I am so sorry!! Please come back and visit […]
The Running Blahs
October 17, 2012
I have a bad case of the running blahs. The last time I ran at all was last Monday (Columbus Day) at the Tufts 10K for Women. I accomplished my goal and finished with a personal best 10K time, and was feeling pretty darn proud of myself for all the […]
New Food Monday: More Fritters For Me
October 15, 2012
If last week was our NFM “cheat week,” then this week is otherwise known as “Mommy’s absentee week.” Unfortunately, I completely missed this meal –broccoli parm fritters via Smitten Kitchen – due to work obligations, but Dr. G. assures me that it went as “well” as previous weeks … meaning […]
Meal Plan: Week of October 14
October 14, 2012
So I’m a little late getting in on Laura and Jill‘s Meal Planning Challenge for October. But since I normally plan our meals for the week anyway, I figured this challenge was made for me! For those bloggers who participate (including yours truly), the idea behind the menu planning challenge […]
Favorite Things Friday: Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
October 12, 2012
I apologize if Cyndi Lauper is stuck in your head now. But I can’t help it – we’re having a “Girls Weekend”! Yup, that’s right, just me and Mimi for the next 48 hours while Dr. G. and Buddy enjoy some daddy-son bonding time. Unfortunately, since one of us is […]
New Food Monday: We Cheated
October 9, 2012
I admit it. We totally wussed out for New Food Monday Tuesday this week. We had grand illusions of making Smitten Kitchen’s broccoli parmesan fritters, since Buddy hearts broccoli, but between the Columbus Day holiday, all the activity yesterday and catching up with work today – plus the fact that […]
Tufts 10K for Women Recap: Third Time’s a Charm
October 8, 2012
Thank you, weather gods, for giving us such a gorgeous fall day for the Tufts 10K for Women! Blue skies, temps in the high 50s, beautiful foliage … what more could I ask for? Hmm, how about a new 10K personal record?? But let me back up a bit. I […]
Canadian Thanksgiving: A Photo Recap
October 7, 2012
Yesterday, we successfully hosted 8 adults (not including us), 10 kids and 2 dogs for Canadian Thanksgiving dinner (click here for the background on this annual tradition). Thankfully, we did not experience any of the following: meltdowns, tantrums, massive spills or injuries (a first!). And, even more surprisingly, there were […]
Favorite Things Friday: Running Gear Edition
October 4, 2012
Welcome to another Favorite Things Friday! In honor of the upcoming Tufts 10K on Monday, I thought I’d share some of my must-haves for running (you’ll notice a bit of a theme): Oiselle Lesley Knickers running capris LOVE these. These are some of my favorite running capris – they fit […]
I Sweat Pink
October 2, 2012
I’m not gonna lie: I am a sweater (and not the cashmere kind). It doesn’t matter whether it’s a leisurely two mile jog, speedwork drills or a Body Pump class … either way, I usually come home dripping in sweat (in all sorts of places, ugh) to the point where […]
A New Food Monday/Pumpkin Madness Crossover
October 1, 2012
A few weeks ago I stumbled across a recipe for pasta with creamy pumpkin sauce and had a total “A-ha” moment. The kiddos heart pasta. I’m obsessed with pumpkin. Could this be the elusive “family dinner” I’ve been searching for? Sadly, that wasn’t the case (tear). First, we swapped out […]
Pumpkin Madness!
September 30, 2012
As I’ve been alluding to the last few days, we are officially kicking off our first Pumpkin Madness Week. I have gone on the record with the fact that I am obsessed with any and everything pumpkin. Besides the taste, what I love about pumpkin is how versatile it is. […]
Sleepovers and record runs
September 29, 2012
When I woke up this morning and saw it was still sprinkling, I did a little happy dance. Why? Today was my last “long” run before the Tufts 10K next weekend, so I had 7 miles scheduled. And due to the conditions I was now forced to do my run […]
Favorite Things Friday
September 28, 2012
I apologize to those who thought I was pulling an Oprah and actually giving away my favorite things. No such luck. But every Friday on KMS I will share some of my favorite things, starting today with … Grocery goodies. Raise your hand if you hate grocery shopping. I know, […]
New Food “Monday”: Soup, there it is
September 25, 2012
I love soup. Whether it’s cold gazpacho or a wintery veggie chili, I can’t get enough of it. Maybe it’s because there are so many vegetarian options? Or maybe it’s because soup is not only budget-friendly but it’s also an excellent way to use up those random veggies you find […]
New Food … Tuesday?
September 24, 2012
If you’re looking for our latest installment of New Food Monday, I’m sorry to report that you’ll have to wait an extra day. Tonight is “Curriculum Night” (I’m not quite sure what that is … is it the same as an Open House??) at Buddy’s school and we thought it […]
Emmys: My best/worst dressed
September 24, 2012
I admit, I don’t watch a lot of TV anymore – especially the shows that are perennial Emmy favorites (Modern Family, Mad Men, etc). We don’t have HBO or Showtime. I’ve never seen Girls or Homeland, and I don’t think I’ve ever watched anything on AMC (although Dr. G swears […]
Race recap: A day of firsts
September 22, 2012
I have been in a running rut, as you can probably tell from Wednesday’s post. My times have been okay but I just havent been feeling it, you know? So after writing that post I decided I needed a swift kick in the pants – I needed something to get […]
Happy Birthday, Buddy
September 21, 2012
Dear Buddy, Six years ago today, a red-faced, chubby-cheeked baby boy was placed in my arms, and my world was changed forever. You heard my voice and I swear you tried to turn your head as if you recognized me, and I completely melted. The love I felt was overwhelming, […]
Running: A Love/Hate Story
September 19, 2012
I have a confession to make. I sometimes hate running. Yes, I do try and get out there 3-4 times a week, especially now that I’m following a training plan to improve my 10K time. But when I run, the following thoughts are usually going through my head: Wow, this […]
New Food Monday recap: G Love and Special Sauce
September 18, 2012
First of all, a big welcome to those of you who found Keeping Mommy Sane from BlogHer! I was nervous going into this week’s New Food Monday. Buddy didn’t have school because of Rosh Hashanah, so he spent the day with my friend’s husband and their son at the playground, […]
My alter ego
September 16, 2012
On Sunday nights, my alter ego makes her weekly appearance. Let’s call her Tess. For some reason, Tess takes some sort of perverse pleasure in organizing my family for the coming week. Tess finishes up the laundry, making sure Mimi has her blanket, bear and sheet for daycare, and that […]
Is my child destined for “Hoarders”?
September 14, 2012
I was not the neatest child. It’s no coincidence that my childhood nickname was “Messy Jessie.” My bedroom was, to be honest, kind of a sty. Clothes strewn about, books shoved under the bed, old cups and God-knows-what-else collecting dust and growing mold on my nightstand. But for some reason, […]
Doggie guilt
September 12, 2012
Guilt. It’s a dirty five-letter word. As a mom, it kind of comes with the territory, right? As I read somewhere, it’s like PMS – we all get it from time to time. I’m a sucker for a good guilt trip; really, it doesn’t take much. I feel guilty about […]
It’s just another New Food Monday
September 10, 2012
Buddy has always been a big fan of your typical “kid food” – chicken nuggets, macaroni and cheese, hot dogs, pizza, etc. I always felt a little silly complaining about it because (a) all my friends said the same thing about their kids, and (b) the boy has never met […]
A Couple of Dashing Divas (Race Recap)
September 9, 2012
Yesterday I participated in my first-ever obstacle course race: the Shape Diva Dash! My friend J and I heard about this months ago from one of our instructors at the gym and immediately signed up. Turns out we weren’t alone – they had more than 5,400 Divas register and the […]
Defending Jessica Simpson
September 6, 2012
Dear Today Show: Yes, Jessica Simpson is struggling to lose her baby weight. Guess what? So are tens of thousands of women all across the country. So why is this news? Is it because she didn’t reveal her bikini body eight weeks postpartum like many Hollywood starlets? That is simply […]
I scored a bah-gain
September 4, 2012
Disclaimer: I do not consider myself to be a fashion expert, fashion blogger or style guru. So keep that in mind as you read the rest of this post. But I am girl who is obsessed with fashion magazines, likes clothes and takes pride in scoring a bargain. When I […]
School days
September 3, 2012
The times are a-changin’ here for the G family. Buddy is an official kindergartener. Thursday was his first full day and Buddy was bouncing off the walls all morning asking, “Is it time yet? Is it time yet?” Meanwhile, I tried to ignore the growing lump in my throat as […]
The Quest for Sanity
August 30, 2012
When Mimi was born, I think I underestimated how becoming a family of four would significantly change every aspect of our lives once the blissful cocoon of maternity and paternity leave ended. Call me naive, or perhaps I was simply lulled into a false sense of security because we had […]
Lessons from Yoda
August 29, 2012
“Come on, you can do it.” “Just try it, you may like it.” “You’ll never know unless you try.” I admit, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve said these exact same phrases to Buddy over the years. Coaxing him into the pool at swim class. Convincing him to […]