Time flies when you're having fun!? It seemed like just yesterday I created Running in a Skirt and now my little blog is 5 years old. I'd like to celebrate by walking down memory lane and giving one of you guys $250 worth of NOW Foods products of your choice!
When I envisioned this picture I did not plan on having to wear a sling and a brace. Doh!
It all started with an innocent enough article announcing that I was running and training for the Chicago Marathon. Up next was a post explaining why I picked the name Running in a Skirt and then some information about running Chicago as a Solemate, which is the Girls on the Run adult fundraising racing program. Those posts kind of make me cringe and smile at the same time.
Running in a Skirt started off as a running blog where I shared my experiences training for races like the Chicago Marathon. At the time training (and even running 18 miles) brought me so much joy. In my first year of blogging I got thrown some serious life curve balls including the unexpected death of my Mom and having to take an extended leave of absence from work from losing my voice and eventually having to have sinus surgery. My priorities changed and so did Running in a Skirt. Since I wasn't able to run as much I started sharing more recipes and lifestyle posts. Those took off, I found a new joy and there was no looking back.
If you would have told me five years ago that I'd be working from home blogging... developing recipes and writing... I would have laughed at you. This wasn't my plan. But life is messy and takes some unpredictable turns. Those turns are often the journeys that make it all worthwhile. While Running in a Skirt being any more than a hobby was never my goal, it has brought me more joy than I could ever dream of.
I like to say now that Running in a Skirt is now a Healthy Living Lifestyle blog with a runner's heart. I'll also toss around the phrase... "I'm running through life in a skirt." I've considered changing the name to something more food or lifestyle centric, but at the end of the day Running in a Skirt is just me. And so it's here to stay.
Running in a Skirt Fun Facts
This is the 970th blog post!
Top 10 most popular posts:
- Peanut Butter Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats
- Mom's Famous Sweet Potato Casserole
- Healthy Greek Salad Dressing
- Healthy Greek Yogurt Ranch Dressing
- Vegetarian Crock Pot Taco Soup
- Pineapple Shrimp Kabobs
- My Sinus Surgery Experience- Advice and Tips
- Crock Pot White Bean Soup
- Watermelon Feta Blueberry Salad
- Award Winning Vegetarian Chili
Although I didn't set out to have a food blog, many of my most popular posts are now food posts.
I left my job at the local TV station WLOS three years ago today to pursue blogging full time. That in some ways is a second blog birthday for me because I started doing blogging more seriously.
My Favorite Posts:
- My I'll Never Get Over Losing My Mom
- How Gratitude Can Change Your Life
- Award Winning Vegetarian Chili
- Summer Kick Off Party
- About the Time the Hubs Flew Us to the Bahamas...
- Why Murren is the Most Beautiful Place in Switzerland
Thank YOU!
While all of the facts and birthday celebrations are fun, I really need to be thanking you. Without each of you taking time out of your day to look at and read my posts this would not be possible. I am forever grateful to y'all for making me and this little blog even a small part of your day. I never take the fact that having this site and readers is a gift and blessing.
I write my posts trying to give you some daily inspiration or a smile... whether it's a new healthy recipe to try, fresh workout to conquer, inspiring fashion choice and even satisfying your wanderlust. My goal is to help you in some way lead a happier, healthier life. I hope that's what you find when you come here.
In the coming months and years I hope I can make this site an even better resource for you. Because that's what this is all about... HELPING YOU!
Once again, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Here's to five more beautiful years.
NOW Foods Giveaway
Now for the fun part! One of you will win a $250 Gift package from NOW Foods. The winner will get to select $250 worth of their favorite products from NOW Foods.**
You might remember I flew to the suburbs of Chicago in May to take a tour of the plant and learn more about the brand for the NOW Foods Immersion.
If you aren’t familiar with NOW, they are a health and wellness brand that focuses on selling high quality, natural products at affordable prices. Their extensive product catalog covers everything from supplements, beauty & health products, essential oils, sports nutrition, natural foods and even pet health. You might have seen their vitamins, protein powder, probiotics and even nutrient dense food on store shelves already.
It's a company I know and trust and I'm thrilled for one of you to get to try more of their products. They sell so many wonderful things and I know each of you will be able to find some lovely products to use if you win.
Make sure to check out their site there are so many options!
Thanks for helping me celebrate! To win the $250 NOW Foods giveaway enter the form below. The giveaway will run until midnight on August 28th.
** If you pick a product that is out of stock, NOW Foods reserves the right to exchange it for something similar.
Happy 5th Birthday Running in a Skirt! Celebrate with a $250 @nowfoods #giveaway Click To TweetPS... For those of you who are interested my arm and doing a bit better. It doesn't hurt as bad and I'm starting to get used to doing something with one arm. I'll share more of a life and arm update on Monday. Thanks to everyone who reached out and offered their condolences and prayers. They're much appreciated and needed. Thank you.
I'm linking up with Fit and Fashionable Friday.
Cute says
Happy 5th blog birthday May God give you more success in your visions and keep post useful things.
SHANNON says
Sandalwood oil!
Stephanie G says
If I had $250 to spend on Now products I would buy it all! Happy Anniversary!!
Rust says
Happy anniversary! I would get supplements, mainly minerals and magnesium, and something for joint health, and stock up on coconut oil.
Sarah Oswald says
Happy Anniversary!
I would love to get the joint support chewable for cats and dogs, egg white protein powder in rich chocolate and vanilla creme.
Rosie says
I would get some essential oils and carrier oils, also some foods that are so good!
Angie B says
I would love to try some of the essential oils
Carolsue says
Happy 5th!
Wow! I really would love to win this! Just a few of the things I would get are the Honey Roasted Pecans, Quinoa Spaghetti, Cajun Sesame Sticks and Coconut Infusions (Garlic).
Kimmy Ripley says
I have IBS-D and would love to try their probiotics.
Stephanie Shipley says
I would have so much fun on shopping spree! I would buy some more of the vitamins I already buy of theres, and look to what else I want to try!
Chrissy says
I would get some of the essential oils, baking mixes, cooking oils and pastas! Everything I've ever tried from them has been amazing!
paige c says
I would restock on vitamins and cooking oils!
Kaila @ Healthy Helper Blog says
5 years?! WHAT A MILESTONE!!! Happy Blogiversary for sure! If I won, I would get some of their protein powders and AWESOME supplements!!
Adrianne Crow says
I just discovered your blog through NOW's Facebook page, I'm excited about it.
I'd probably focus on digestive enzymes and neurotransmitters. I have autism & cerebral palsy, I've never functioned or interacted smoothly until I was lead down the path of my current regiment but now I'm more productive than most people I know though I still have noticeable sensory & mobility issues.
Heather @ HeatherRunsFast.com says
Happy 5th!!! I would want to try the Nutty Infusions first!
Deryn | Running on Real Food says
Congrats on 5 years! That's a huge accomplishment! I'm coming up on 5 years too, I can't believe It! Time sure does fly, doesn't it. Here's to many more happy blogging years ahead!
heather @Lunging Through Life says
I'm in need of new protein powder!
Ashley | Fit Mitten Kitchen says
Wow congrats on five years! That is really awesome!
I went to the NOW Immersion last year and it was so cool! They have the best quality and most affordable products!
Emily Kyle says
Happy Happy Birthday to Running in a Skirt! I am so glad I've gotten to know you through this blogging world <3 So sorry to hear about your elbow, I hope you have a speedy recovery!
Jessica @Small Bites by Jessica says
A big congrats to you girl! That is so exciting, and definitely something to celebrate!
Katherine says
Happy 5th! What a fantastic accomplishment! I can't wait to enter the giveaway, too!
Lorie says
Sometimes it's crazy to look back and see where things started, and know you never thought where you'd be today. And the journey looks like it's taking taken you all over and up and down. congrats on big milestone!
Alisa @ Go Dairy Free says
Happy Anniversary!! I love your new philosophy on your blog name - I think that is an awesome transition! As for Now Foods - love them! I'd probably load up on their raw cashews (the best!) and trial out some of their supplements that are on my wish list!
Taylor Kiser says
Happy 5th! What a great giveaway to celebrate! Hope you heal quickly!
Sarah says
Happy blogiversary!! It's been so great getting to know you over the years and I cannot wait to see what you do in the future! I love your outgoing positive attitude and love for life.
Sonali- The Foodie Physician says
Congratulations on 5 years! Looking forward to many more! I hope your arm heals soon.
Renee Benda says
Happy Blog-versary! Has it been 5 years already?! Time flies. I hope your elbow is on the mend soon!
Lacey@fairytalesandfitness says
Happy blogaversary. Time does fly! Sounds like a bunch of great goodies in the giveaway.
Amber Cicillian says
Happy 5th
Mary Beth Jackson says
Congrats! 5 years is BIG! What an awesome giveaway to celebrate! They have so many great products it is hard to choose! Keep smiling and sharing!
debbie says
Happy Anniversary. I would love to try some of their pastas, baking products, dried fruit, Q cups and natural snacks. praying for you
Pat says
Happy 5th Blogiversary! I would get grains, nuts and seeds.
Jaime says
Happy blog day to you! Time flies 🙂
Heather says
Some cocoa, some nuts and seeds, some whole grains and flours... a little of this and a little of that! Congrats, and thanks.
Annette says
I'd load up on their liquid stevia - it's the only brand I like. And i'd get some new essential oil.s
Naomi says
Happy blog birthday! 970 posts is no small feat, to be sure! As a newish reader, it was fun to read a little more about how your blog started, and I LOVE the name you chose. Here's to many more joy-filled years of blogging!
Karen G. says
Happy 5th birthday!! Love seeing how the blog has progressed. 🙂
Here's to many more!
Carla S says
I would get cooking oils, fruit snacks, and pasta.
paige c says
I would stock up on my vitamins!
Esther says
Happy blog birthday! Such a fun idea to recap and do an awesome giveaway!
I missed what happened to your arm! Going to read more now!!
Rosie says
I'd get some essential oil and carrier oils, some nuts, Stevia, tea, and pasta!
Angela @marathonsandmotivation.com says
Happy Blogiversary...Wow, 5 years! Such a Great Giveaway too...Hope I win!!! 🙂
MizStakes says
Been a HUGE fan of NOW Foods forever! Their quality and value are amazing and I save a lot of money when I buy their products online or at my local Vitamins Plus. I have to admit, I heard of this blog from their post about the giveaway on FB. And, that's another thing I can thank them for, because Julie and I are cut from the same cloth and this blog is great!
Kimberly R says
Happy 5th Anniversary! and thanks for the giveaway. I would get some essential oils and gluten free flour mixes.
Melissa Kaufman says
I'd get dried fruit, pasta and essential oils!
Laurie says
I would get the protein powder and an assortment of nuts. Plus any other goodies I find.
ashley d says
sports nutrition supplements
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home says
Happy Anniversary! I'm so happy to say I've been along for most of the ride. Your blog is always so happy and positive, and I need that in my life. Keep it coming!
Rhonda Sawtelle says
I love NOW foods! I love their essential oils, so I'd get some of those, and some of their seeds/nuts, and I'd like to try some of their newer products too.
Farrah says
Yay! Happy happy blogiversary! I'm so sorry to hear about your arm! :[ I hope you heal up speedily and smoothly!
I have no idea where I'd start with NOW--there are so many things I want from them! 😛
Joan says
Happy 5th! Glad your arm is doing some better. I'm not sure what I would order but it would be nice to win.
Chrissy @ Snacking in Sneakers says
Happy blog birthday! I'm just coming home now from a NOW Foods trip - it was amazing. I had a blast. PS - your vegetarian chili is one of my fav posts too! 🙂
Angi Farthing says
Happy blog birthday!
Steve Weber says
I would get a lot of cooking oils, peanut butters, protein powders and more.
Deborah @ Confessions of a mother runner says
Julie it's been fabulous to connect with you the past few years. Looking forward to many more
Abbey Sharp says
Awesome giveaway! Also Happy 5th Anniversary girl! Keep up the great work!
Kristen M says
Happy Anniversary. And thank you for the giveaway. I would love to try essential oils and also stock my pantry with healthy oils and baking products.
steph says
CONGRATS!!
So many good things...but definitely stevia 🙂
Also, I accidentally put my IG handle instead of pinterest , which is "Stephanie Abdon"
Thanks for the chance to win!
Emily @ Pizza & Pull-ups says
Happy 5th blog birthday! You have had quite the journey!
Maryann says
Thanks for the chance- I love NOW!. Congrats on the anniversary1
Mikki says
Congratulations! Loved being able to look back over your past blogs and seen how it's all grown for you!!
Andrea Bates says
I am a fan of their oils. I would probably order a whole batch of them, avocado, macadamia nut, etc. and also get a bunch of their baking mixes because I love having them on-hand to go to when I want pancakes or yummy bread!
Ginny says
The quinoa pasta would be a great addition to my pantry!
sheila austin says
Happy 5th birthday! So happy for you, and I love reading your post.
To answer your question on what I would try, I would try the protein powder, I'm always on the hunt for a quality, good tasting protein powder.
Shelley Marcy says
Gosh, what a great give away. I'm not sure what I would choose at this point. I think it would be fun to pick out the items together with my husband!
Emily says
Congratulations on this post Julie! I'm so thankful God gave us two hands so that we could type a post with one even if we don't have both; and I'm thankful for your blog. The beautiful recipes, fun travel posts, fashion, and lifestyle posts are all so fun!
Jennifer says
Happy 5th!! I would love to try some of the natural beuaty oil from NOW and the quinoa pasta!
Blane Sherer says
Happy 5th and sort of 3rd anniversary Julie !
Yes , I agree that you should stay with
Running in a Skirt. It's not just a literal fit,
but it's also a good metaphorical fit for you.
I Hope you enjoy your weekend !
Michelle says
Happy 5th ! I'd get some cocoa powder, oils, dried fruit, pasta, & pet health. Great giveaway for sure....
Kelly D says
I would get pasta, baking mixes and coconut oil.
Debbie@debbiethisandthat.com says
Happy 5th Blog Anniversary, Julie! I am celebrating my 2nd Blog Anniversary, so we are partying together! I love reading your blog for the variety of posts you offer and how you are always so genuine and honest with your writing. You are a true blog "mentor" to me and I appreciate you so much! Hope that elbow heals quickly.
Mary Ellen @ VNutrition says
Happy 5th blog birthday!!! You have such wonderful posts and really put yourself out there which is so nice and refreshing to read. I'm so glad I got to know you and your wonderful blog! Here's wish you so many more blog-versaries!
Susie @ Suzlyfe says
Happy 5 years! I am so happy you chose to run that marathon and start this site--I have loved getting to know you. You are such a breath of fresh and always have great content!
Beth Ann Chiles says
Happy 5th Anniversary! I didn't follow you until the past year or so so I am thrilled to know the back story of Running in a Skirt. You know that NOW Foods are now a favorite of mine due to your blog---I love the pasta and essential oils and that would be at the top of my list of what I would get!
Carol Ridenour says
Happy 5th Anniversary! Love your blog and and enjoy hearing about what is going on in your life. Praying your arm continues to heal and so happy the pain is not as bad...Have a great week-end!
Laresa Griffin says
Happy 5th Anniversary! I love Running In a Skirt! Keep up the great work! 🙂
Alicia @Bridges Through Life says
Happy 5th!! I love NOW foods. I would love to get a tub of one of their protein powders.
Marilyn says
Happy 5th!!! ?