Category: Life
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What To Wear Running: Top 5 Essentials
What To Wear Running: Top 5 Essentials
I’ve been running for six month’s now. By no means am I a professional runner, but I have learned more than I could have imagined in the last few months!
When I am headed out for a run, no matter the length, I’ve found a select number of items I cannot run without. Of course, the obvious necessities are top of mind. A good quality sports bra, clinical strength deodorant, moisture-wicking undies, non-chafing shorts, and so on and so forth. In addition, there are five things that are absolutely essential, in my humble opinion. Drop a comment below and let me know if you too can’t live without these essentials and any other running essentials you have in your running routine!
As a runner, five essentials I can’t live without:
#1 | Comfortable Shoes
First, shoes. Just in the last month, I ran the longest distance I have ever run in my life. With the added miles came added pain in my knees. Unbearable pain. After several weeks of pain, my friends strongly recommended I visit Tryathletics, a local store than understands the need for a good pair of running shoes. I began talking to the salesman about my running goals, the roadblocks I faced and asked, no begged, for his advice. Just a few short minutes later, my feet and knees were singing praises as I was prancing around the shop in these Mizuno kicks that have more cushion and support than I truly believed was even possible in a pair of shoes. I was in so much pain before, yet bouncing and jumping in joyful, painless strides now! Why did I wait so long? Trust me, if you’re just getting your feet wet or the running bug is about to bite, get to your local athletic store now. Your feet and knees will thank me later.
I absolutely love my Mizuno Wave black and rose gold tennis shoes. For those who know me well, you know I love rose gold in every area of my life! Don’t wait, give your feet the hug they deserve with these sweet sneakers.
#2 | Apple AirPods
Second, Apple AirPods. Stay with me, I promise this isn’t an Apple commercial. As a very special Christmas present, I was gifted my very own Apple AirPods. Although completely unexpected, I am so grateful for the gift. The gift of crystal clear music that drowns out my very audible breathing sounds is the best motivator while running, especially when Bang Dem Sticks comes in loud and clear, forcing a mini breakdance session on mile 11.
The battery life will outlast your longest run or full days work. I’ve been asked multiple times by friends how long the battery lasts, and I don’t even know, that’s how infrequently I have to charge them. Even if you’re terrified these headphones won’t stay in your ear, because let’s get real, the other Apple headphones you’ve had never stayed, these are different. Petrified you will lose this teeny-tiny piece of pricey technology, get ready for essential #3! I can’t recommend these headphones with any greater sense of urgency.
Apple AirPods are so much more than a set of headphones. Stay connected, stay focused, stay motivated with Apple AirPods. If you can’t stand the sound of yourself panting like a dog while running, these will drown out that horrible sound with your favorite running playlist.
#3 | Apple AirPods Holder
Is the sheer size of the Apple AirPods holding you back? I was fearful myself when I first opened the package. How in the world am I supposed to keep track of two tiny earbuds? Look no further than the Apple AirPods Holder for your Apple Watch band. This sleek and simple device slips right onto your watch band, holding your AirPods securely in place. No need to worry. I love this holder when I’m running with friends. It is so easy to keep one AirPod in one ear while the other ear is listening to my friends tell me about how their week went.
At the office, this holder is even more of a blessing as I am frequently interrupted with incoming requests and can easily slip the AirPods into the holder as I tackle the next project. Remove the worry from your life, pick up the AirPods holder to save your future self.
Keep your Apple AirPods within reach with this Apple AirPod holder for your Apple Watch. Order it and join the cool kids club. Never be without your tunes on your next run.
#4 | Armband
Finally, an armband for your phone. I love my armband for carrying my phone with me when I run. My armband securely straps to my arm, isn’t weighing me down in my pants pocket, easy access if needed and I don’t even have to take my phone out of its case.
If you’re like me and you are extremely prone to dropping your phone daily, then you have a very bulky case on your phone, just in case. For me, it’s an OtterBox Defender Series case. It’s dependable, protective, and I really love the OtterBox support, but this dude is nearly impossible to take off my phone and requires a great deal of patience when even attempting to remove. Therefore, there is no possible scenario in which I will commit to removing this case every single time before I go for a run. Given my situation, I searched and searched until I found an armband that would accommodate my plus-sized iPhone WITH the case! Take note of the style and size of case you have on your phone and be sure you read the specs very closely on any armband you add to your cart!
Safety first. I do not run anywhere without my phone, for more reasons than one. An armband gives you peach of mind while freeing up your mind to focus on running and less on keeping track of your phone
Another reason I love this armband, the fingerprint access while the phone is in the case. Yes, you heard me correctly. You can use the phone, unlock it, all while it’s still in the case! It doesn’t get any handier than that, folks.
#5 | Running Belt
Finally, if you’re getting serious about running, find yourself a running belt that matches your needs. I use my running belt to hold my keys, animal crackers, starbursts and a couple of pieces of gum. While my phone is securely in my armband, I use my belt to hold all of my treats for any distance run. Easy access to all my snacks is vital when running so you don’t have to worry about wearing that one pair of shorts that has pockets and potentially losing the snacks you carefully packed if your pockets aren’t secured!
For me, I am not a fan of the running belt styles that can hold a water bottle. I would much rather plant waters along my long-distance running route, or drink after my run than carry the extra weight. In addition, I highly recommend a belt with zipper closure. Instead of stepping into the belt and bringing it up to your waist, this running belt securely zips on the side for easy on and off! There are a multitude of options out there, so do your research before settling on one that fits your running style.
Finally, storage. Ample storage is key. However, ensuring the contents of your belt remain securely in your belt is important as well. This belt contains a special clasp to hold my keys. When I go for long-distance runs and have to drive to the trails, it gives me peace of mind when I run knowing my keys are securely fastened to my belt. Then, the keys are readily available and easy to access when my run is complete.
I highly recommend finding a running belt that has ample storage space, fastens with a zipper and features a secure clip for your car keys during your run. Storage space is important for keeping all your snacks and treats while you run. If you’re training for a marathon or half marathon, you will need the extra storage space. Don’t forget to fill your belt up with starbursts before your long run! (However, when you go to do laundry, be sure to get all the extra starbursts and wrappers out of your belt…I know from experience, that can get messy.)
Don’t go another run without the security of a running belt to hold all your essentials.
Get yourself one of those awesome graphic tanks I’m wearing here
#6 Body Glide
There are so many essentials. It was too stressful narrowing it down to five! So, here’s #6 — Body Glide! Y’all. You have no idea what you’re missing. If you’ve been running for a while, you’ve likely experienced chafing. If you haven’t, get yourself a stick of body glide so you never have to. It’s terrible.
Order yourself a stick of body glide BEFORE you need it. Don’t suffer first, then buy. Body glide goes on smooth, quick and easy. The peace of mind knowing your thighs are protected from the awful nightmare of chafing is completely worth it. Don’t be afraid to be very generous with the body glide as you never know where you might chafe, especially on your longer runs.
You are now in the know. I trust my secrets are safe with you. Happy Running!
Drop a comment below and let me know if you too can’t live without these essentials and any other running essentials you have in your running routine! Share your running pics with us on the social. Tag us @Tribble_Tribe and use #MyRunningTribe
Here are a few photos of my running tribe lately!
Don’t forget, Join the Tribe! Subscribe. We can’t wait to connect with you.
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Becoming A Runner
Did you know training for a half marathon can become like a second job? It’s true. Thankfully, I wasn’t alone.
Runners are a truly different breed. They are tough. They have grit. They don’t give up. In fact, I myself am a runner.
To be a runner, you have to run. If you run, you are a runner. No question about it. However, this is so much easier said than accepted by beginning runners, including myself. I’m so thankful Jon Acuff (if you don’t know him, look him up!) helped me through the challenge of self-identification as a runner.
I never considered myself a runner, until I read Jon’s tweet:
A thread about admitting who you are:
— Jon Acuff (@JonAcuff) May 19, 2019
Years ago, when people asked me if I was a runner, I would always say, “I run. I’m not a runner.”
I had this silly definition in my head of what it meant to be a “real runner.” Check out the thread over on Twitter. It is, well …inspiring.
I have used the same excuses with my co-workers, my family, friends, etc.
“No, I’m not a runner, I just run.”
-MeWhat the heck! Talk about undervaluing your potential and achievements.
So today, if you’re a runner, accept it. Humbly accept your identity as a runner and bring glory to God through your running.
Now that we have a mutual understanding
Did I mention I ran a half marathon this month? Yeah! That’s right, a whole half marathon. Or three 5k races. Either way you look at it, we ran over 13.1 miles for fun on a Saturday morning. Better yet, we paid to run for over two and a half hours on a Saturday morning! Regardless, it was worth it in the end.
Back to where it all began
It all began on a rainy Friday night about a month after I met my friend Stephanie. Stephanie brought up her desire to run a half marathon sometime in her life. Next thing I know, right then and there Stephanie is researching half marathon races and discovered three half marathons coming up in our city! She read me the list of races. Being the supportive friend that I am, I listened intently, offering supportive and encouraging remarks. It went something like this:
Stephanie: “I really want to run a half marathon”
Jessie: “Oh, wow. Yeah, that sounds fun!”
Stephanie: “We should run a half marathon together!”
Jessie: *deer in headlights face*
Stephanie: *long pause*
Jessie: “Yeah, let’s do it!”
Jessie’s thoughts: “What did I just commit to?”A little background
For several years now I have been searching for an answer to get more movement and activity in my life. I grew up on a farm and maintained an extremely active lifestyle throughout my childhood. Then came the treasured college years. I liked to eat in college. You can use your imagination as to what the impact of unlimited chocolate milk available at every dining hall can do to your physique. So, this idea of getting good cardio exercise regularly, with someone else also holding me accountable, I was all in!
Race registration deadline approaches. I did it. I signed up! Stephanie signed up. Finally, we are registered for our first half marathon. There is no going back now. We are all in, 110% committed to running our race. This is where the rubber hits the road.
We were both committed.
Let the training began!
Beginning in late 2018, we started our training with the Couch to 5k app. To say this was a challenge is an understatement. In fact, my friend Jeanette’s goal for January 2019 was to run for an entire 25 minutes straight! She did it. In fact, we all achieved her goal! Once we completed the full schedule on the Couch to 5k app, Stephanie and one of her experienced running friends introduced us to this more detailed, expansive running schedule.
This schedule began mid-March. Training without a treadmill during the extended winter we had was unbearable at best for several early runs. The distances began to get longer and longer. As I mentioned before, I was active in high school sports and other activities. However, before this journey, three or four miles nonstop was my farther distance. The day we ran five miles, the overwhelming feeling of accomplishment was enough to fuel me for the long haul.
The training continued. Five miles one weekend, 6 miles the next weekend. Then it happened.
My knees.
My knees were in so much pain. Every run, irrespective the distance. It was unbearable.
By this time, I ran each long distance run with my friends Stephanie and Jeanette. I should tell you, my tribe isn’t your typical, ordinary friends. My tribe includes Stephanie, with a Doctor of Physical Therapy, and Jeanette, who is a saint of a woman with a Masters in Exercise Physiology plus one full marathon and three half marathons worth of experience under her belt. I’m over here with my bachelors and zero experience running and facing unbelievable pain in my knees begging for relief. The suspected offender is my bulky trail shoes, which as I learned, are not at all designed for long-distance running. I heed their advice and head off to purchase new shoes that day.
Thanks to the footwear expert at Tryathletics, I was back on the trail the next day. It was night and day the difference a well-designed, cushioned shoe can bring to your running journey. If you’re struggling with knee pain or any other pain while running, please go see your healthcare professional. Don’t suffer any longer!
Try these Mizuno Women’s Running Shoes for yourself!
The training was coming to an end. All the miserably cold runs through the long winter paid off. I felt the best I had ever felt for our 12-mile run two weeks before the race. I couldn’t wait to run the full half. We had come so far!
Post mid-week 5 mile run 
Post 8 mile run 
Post 11 miles 
Post 10 miles 
During our 6 mile run
I’ve heard it said progress is the #1 motivator of people. I look back at my experience training. Each week we crossed off a long-distance run, the motivation to keep going, to achieve our goal, was stronger than ever. Remembering our first goal, to run a mere 25 minutes, non-stop. We achieved this and numerous others along the way. That’s real progress and intensely motivating.
“Progress is the #1 motivator of people.”
-Rod OsthusRace day has arrived! We are ready!
There we are. Killing it.
Unable to run a mile without stopping prior to this journey, to setting a half marathon personal record. This experience opened my eyes to how strong my body is, how loyal my tribe is and how remarkable my God is. I never could have run this race alone. You don’t have to run your race solo either.
Dreamers. Doers. 
We couldn’t do it without our tribe! Don’t forget, Join the Tribe! Subscribe. We can’t wait to connect with you.
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The BEST business casual shoes for standing all day.
Put your worries behind you. The wait is over. I’ve searched the depths of the internet for the most comfortable and supportive business casual shoes on the market. If you are an active professional desperately searching for shoes that compliment your style, without the chronic discomfort at the end of the day, then keep reading.
You may have heard the news reports and research about sitting for long hours at work. Some say sitting can be as deadly as smoking. Although I believe that may be a bit extreme, I have seen firsthand the multitude of benefits to standing while at work. I’ve been there, done that.
In my career, I have worked in office settings, both sitting and standing. I have found a great deal of relief when transitioning to a standing desk. In fact, I’ve worked at a permanent standing desk for nearly three years! The aches and pains virtually disappeared. However, standing for a full day of office work does come with some challenges.
Transitioning to a standing desk doesn’t happen overnight either. For me, it took a few months for my body to fully adapt to the change. Even then, once I adjusted to the standing desk, I noticed within a few months that my feet would ache something awful at the end of each day. The pain was unbearable. Every morning I would wake up, nearly unable to walk because of the pain.
Then I got to thinking.
Standing all day was really taking a toll on my feet. Why? I wasn’t providing the support I needed to compensate for the strain of being on my feet all day. My go-to shoes were typically a cheap pair of dress flats or a pair of black tennis shoes. I depended primarily on those black tennis shoes to give my feet the extra love and support. Tennis shoes were the logical answer, and the only answer, so I thought. But they were cramping my style.
Style doesn’t have to be optional
In my opinion, I believe shoes can make or break an outfit. The black tennis shoes were not meeting my expectations, nor did they compliment any outfit. It was no question, with a business casual dress code workplace, my sophisticated style was suffering. If you know me, you know how much of a trendsetter I am when it comes to fashion, too. *wink, wink* Unable to wear cute shoes was ruining my reputation.
After going through three pairs of black tennis shoes, shoe shopping was plain disappointing and anticlimactic as well. I would pick out several pairs of shoes in excitement, proceed to try each one on, and put each one back on the shelf. I knew none of the options could withstand eight hours of standing for a full day at work. You wouldn’t believe the amount of will power needed for me to walk out of a shoe store, completely empty-handed. After a few more experiences like this, shoe shopping became a spectator sport only.
That is, until one day, I had enough.
There must be another option
The tennis shoes weren’t providing the support I desperately needed, both in comfort and style. I finally gave in and turned to the magical land of Amazon for help. I did countless searches for comfortable flats, shoes for standing all day, standing desk shoes, the list goes on and on and on. I even searched for nurses shoes, because we all know the time dedicated nurses spend on their feet each day!
The search continued. Eventually, I stumbled upon the same shoes each time I searched. I took the plunge. I ordered the shoes. And I haven’t ever looked back. I’m thrilled to say I’m no longer sacrificing my style and I’m able to stay more focused throughout the day because my feet are happy.
Introducing the best shoes for standing all day:
#1Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Sheena Wedge Sandal
Whoa. These shoes are stylish and so comfortable. Perfect for the spring, summer, and fall, these aren’t your typical wedges. Adjustable velcro closure fits any size foot and the toe opening is slim enough to keep your foot in place as you walk. Although there is a bit of a heel to these fabulous shoes, I hardly even notice while I’m wearing these at my desk. Join the Tribe and order these shoes today. Treat yourself or someone you know to cute, comfortable, and cushiony new shoes!
I love these wedges! #2Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Women’s Imagine Loafer are the best shoes I have found that can maintain all-day comfort with an edge of class. Wear these loafers in the summer with no-show socks or in the winter with the wildest socks you can find. They pair great with your finest dress pants or a sophisticated pair of jeans for date night. If there is one thing your wardrobe is missing, it just might be this pair of comfortable and stylish loafers.
#3The Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Women’s Imagined Perf Loafer is another shoe I depend on regularly for my business casual outfits. Especially in the fall, I love to pair these loafers with another pair of fun socks and colorful dress pants. These Perf loafers are a touch less business than #2, and more on the casual end of business casual, but still a good choice.
See, I’m telling you! The socks really set the shoes up for success. Up your sock game. #4Last, but certainly not least. The shoes that bring the most life back into my closet, the J/SLIDES Women’s Harry Sneaker. These shoes came highly recommended by a friend, and they did not disappoint. Not only in style, as I said, but the comfort level as well. I especially love this grey metallic color to add a little extra to any outfit!
After 2+ years standing all day, I consider myself an expert in finding the most comfortable and fashionable shoes for a business casual office environment. It is a difficult balance to find between comfort and fashion, but with Amazon, anything is possible.
For the Men
Don’t worry men, we haven’t forgotten you! For the men, we highly recommend the Cole Haan line of dress shoes. Especially these loafers. Do you see a trend? We are a loafer kind of family! Slip these on and you are out the door on your way to work in no time. Ladies, do your man a favor and order him a pair. He will appreciate it, I promise.
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Year in Review | 2015 Missouri Beef Queen
Spending a full year advocating for the Missouri Beef Industry was a dream come true.
It has truly been an honor and delight to serve Missouri’s Cattlemen and CattleWomen as Jessie Fowler, 2015 Missouri Beef Queen. Thank you for the opportunity to represent Missouri’s beef industry and shine a positive light on agriculture throughout the state and country. I am forever blessed to have gained a whole new family within the cattle industry.
God Bless.
~ Jessie
