Not only do I love making new virtual friends, I love receiving snail mail with lots of  cool surprises. You know those little surprises that you would never actually go out and buy yourself? For this Gear Exchange  we added a bit of a twist – each participant had to either share a favourite book or DVD (even if it was preloved), two recipes and some extra surprises.  The exchange was open Canadian wide and we definitely had participation from coast to coast.

Tweet: Fall into fit for Canadians coast to coast. #fallintofitness #sweatpink @mymamajourney

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So let me share with you a little about what I received from my sender For the Love of Family (Tracey) and what I sent to Pipers Run (Anna) for her enjoyment.

What I received

Check out all those goodies! I very quickly lost the purple socks and headbands to my 2 1/2 year old who is obsessed with those colors. She was so excited about “mama’s new socks!”. I also was thrilled to receive one of Julian Michael’s work out videos because that girl is a beast (in the most fit-lady like way as possible). Her workouts are killer and amazing inspiration for me now as an instructor.

I was also glad to receive the Hemp Heart snacks (I have never tried them before!), especially since I am currently running a giveaway for #HempHearts right now on the blog. It’s another great way to try something new. The two recipes Tracey provided look yummy, I mean who wouldn’t love zucchini brownies?!? Seriously looking forward to making a batch this weekend for our neighbourhood halloween party. Finally, as I get back into winter running those delicious treats shown in the middle (e.g., gels) will come in handy for refuelling.

What did I share?

The beauty of technology allowed me to very quickly and very easily send Anna two of my favourite and useful “toys”.  As a runner I figured she would get a lot of use out of a book that teaches you the best techniques for using a foam roller.  And, you can never be too old for a skipping rope. It’s amazing cross training activity and just a great way to decompress.

As somewhat of a traditionalist, I also sent a small package by snail mail which contained a new “Ideas” notebook, a few samples of delicious teas and two of our family favourite recipes (Hearty Lentil Soup and Quinoa Crusted Chicken).

If you want to see what other great stuff the Canadian ladies received hop on over to our link up (see icon below). Remember active blog participation is always welcomed, try and comment on at least two blog posts.

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Can you hear it?

Sleigh bells… Chorals…. and Snow Ploughs…  

In the spirit of the holidays rather than a full on “Gear Exchange” stay tuned for details on my holiday cookie recipe exchange  in time for Holiday Parties and get togethers.