Archive for October, 2008
Gifts for Sporty Girls
Posted by: | CommentsThe holidays are right around the corner and I am going to start doing my shopping early this year. Since my kids don’t really need toys, some of my gift ideas are to get them some cool gear for their individual sports. My recommendations today include:
- Destira Leotards – we LOVE these leotards for gymnastics practice. They are well made, wash well and come in so many cool designs. Place an order between now and 12/14/09 and get 15% off with the code SAVE15.
- Got a swimmer? I just ordered the Small Pro Backpack from Speedo for my daughters. It has plenty of room for their gear, but the small version is perfect for kids under 10 as they can carry it themselves (the regular size one is as big as they are). I can get their fins in the bag, there is a separate pocket for wet suits, and even a place for their iPod. SwimLocker is my favorite place to order their gear thanks to their large selection and free shipping option.
- If you miss the Olympics as much as I do, check out the US Olympic Shop for sweatshirts, hats, bags, and more. Take 15% Off no Minimum at US Olympic Shop! Use Code LKS38LFN.
- Zappos, which I used to think only carried shoes, now has a great selection of Women’s Nike clothing at Zappos.com and they always offer free shipping!
And just because it looks like fun, I am going to get my girls the We Cheer game for Wii. I like the dance component of it and we can all play it together.- Justice (a spin off of Limited Too) always has sport themed ts, fleece, sweat pants and outfits. They seem to get new designs for gymnastics, soccer, and dance every season, and I have seen swim, basketball, and general athletic themes from time to time. Justice Sale! Fleece Jacket Now $24.99 each (thru 11/11)
As the holidays get closer, I will continue to highlight fun gifts for girls who love sports and track down some great deals, too. If you have any recommendations, don’t be shy – share them with us.
Nastia Liukin on the Set of Gossip Girl
Posted by: | CommentsGreat photo of Nastia Liukin, the 2008 Olympic All Around Gymnastics Champion, on the set of Gossip Girl. Nastia mentioned that it was one of her favorite shows in an interview and the show’s producers contacted her. She will have a cameo appearance in an upcoming episode.
Looking for Strategies for Dealing with Pre-Race Anxiety
Posted by: | CommentsOk readers, now its your turn to give me advice. My youngest had her first swim meet of the season today and was totally overcome with anxiety after warm ups and got herself so worked up, she got physically ill. As a result, she ended up scratching all three of today’s races. By the time her first race would have started, she was feeling better, and by the time her second race rolled around she actually felt like she could have raced.
What strategies have you used to calm those pre-race nerves?
UPDATE: Day 2 of the competition went better. She still threw up before we even entered the building, but her coaches allowed her to warm up when she was ready in the second pool. Just that little gesture was enough to really calm her down. When it came time for her to race, she was a little stressed but once she was on the blocks everything was fine. She had a great first swim of the season and now has a time to use as a benchmark. I don’t think this is the last of the nerves, but now she has a few strategies and experience she can draw on next time.
