i spent an hour on a conference call with the people at Gatorade and stephanie hamm...mia hamm's mother.
you know mia hamm.....the olympic soccer player?
i went into the call feeling a little unqualified or out of place.
she is the mother of an olympic athlete and i am.....going to t-ball games.
but when she shared about raising her family of 6 children i knew we had something in common.....
mothering.
we were both mothers who want our children to succeed in life.
Gatorade filled my brain with facts about the importance of my child being hydrated properly
before the game or workout....during.....and afterwards.
it was SO interesting.
i never understood why or how Gatorade worked.
or like i am sure many of you have also said "we never had to worry about that when i was a kid".
Visit the Official site
well thankfully....times have changed.
we are much more informed than our parents were.
as mothers we have hundreds of resources available to us that they didn't have thanks to the internet and tv.
we have awesome products like gatorade for our kids instead of soda and kool-aid.
there is even a line of products called G Series Natural ...no artificial dyes...naturally sweetened and flavored.
the people at Gatorade have labs (the Gatorade Sports Science Institute)that study things like sweat intake and output on all types and levels of athletes to give real data on what athletes NEED to perform better and at their best in their sport.
Gatorade's nutritionist said "if you can get properly hydrated before the workout or games and keep hydrated during, chances are you will say i never knew i could feel this good while exercising."
my thought when she said that was "i have never said that....i would LOVE to be able to say that!"
and i want that for my kids.
i have a house full of athletes that will benefit from the Gatorade MOMS website.
stephanie hamm encouraged us as mothers by saying:
"when you load up the car with supplies and snacks and drinks for a day of sports...to spend the day at the soccer field or at the gym for tournaments....that is family time.
you are spending the day together as a family. your job is important"
i had a moment.
a light bulb moment!
i have always seen tournaments and long games as something that is a bit of a burden.
i was happy my kid could play but didn't want to drag everybody else along or make them be there.
but her outlook changed me.
it's family time.
we are together....it may not be at home....but we are together....supporting another one of us.
i think she changed my life.
too dramatic?
maybe....but i was moved.
and it made me really think about my time with my kids.
what do i really want them to come away with after all their years of hard work?
the bottom line with sports and kids is teaching them LIFE SKILLS.
we aren't trying to make the next michael jordan.
if that happens....awesome.
but what i want is a well rounded kid who has skills to carry him through life's ups and downs in a mature, healthy, responsible way.
sports teaches that in many ways...especially when parents and coaches work together.
so.....i am going to take pleasure in our baseball and basketball season coming up.
packing my bag and car with a grateful heart that i get to be a part of this stage in my child's life.
i am ready to cheer them on....and keep them fueled and hydrated! ;)
Gatorade knows the importance of quality equipment for your athlete as well as keeping them hydrated.
they would like to giveaway a $100 gift card to Dick's Sporting Goods.
(but if i won the gift card....i would probably spend it on myself....you get to choose)
leave a comment on this post to be entered.
this giveaway runs from 6/1 - 6/30.
Rules:
No duplicate comments.
You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:
a) Leave a comment in response to the sweepstakes prompt on this post
b) Tweet about this promotion and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post
c) Blog about this promotion and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post
d) For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.
This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older
Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail.
You have 72 hours to get back to me, otherwise a new winner will be selected.
Visit the Official Rules
Thank you!
You can go to theBlogHer Prizes & Promotions section for other chances to WIN too.
Hydration is definitely important.
Posted by: mami2jcn | 06/01/2011 at 04:04 PM
tweet-http://twitter.com/mami2jcn/status/76031419536769024
Posted by: mami2jcn | 06/01/2011 at 04:05 PM
I think this is awesome! I, like, her, want to feel awesome the whole time.
Posted by: Jen G | 06/02/2011 at 11:46 AM
I like the thoughts about being together as a family....certainly gives me a different perspective too!
Posted by: Kerry | 06/02/2011 at 11:48 AM
My daughter will be a senior in high school in the fall and I realize this will be some of the last times we will go together to her swim meets, football games & cheerleading competitions. I will miss them!!!!!!!!!!! I will enjoy every swim meet this summer. Thanks for the giveaway - love Dick's Sporting Goods!
Posted by: Lynda@Me and My Pink Mixer | 06/02/2011 at 11:55 AM
I love Gatorade...and Dick's Sporting Goods! I always feel more motivated to work out if I have new cute workout clothes :)
Posted by: Corrie | 06/02/2011 at 11:58 AM
Funny coincidence, just last night my son told me he went to the store w/his nana yesterday & bought a whole bunch of gatorade. His reasoning (he's 7) Because it is healthier for you than capri suns & he can load up on a bunch of gatorade & some home & play tackle footbal w/friends in our yard & he won't get dehydrated.
Posted by: Christy | 06/02/2011 at 12:00 PM
This is a great post...and so true. Thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Rachel | 06/02/2011 at 12:00 PM
I need to buy stock in Gatorade in the summer. My hubby drinks it like crazy. Dick's Sporting Goods is an excellent store, and I just happen to know someone who needs new shoes...
Posted by: Jen N. | 06/02/2011 at 12:03 PM
We're Gatorade drinkers here in the summer when the kids are visiting :)
Posted by: gina | 06/02/2011 at 12:03 PM
i thought that was a great point about the games being "family time." and here i keep thinking it just gets in the way of family time! good way to put it in perspective for me!
Posted by: mel | 06/02/2011 at 12:06 PM
Gatorade...it's the ONE thing my 3 year old will drink besides milk and water. She hates pop and isn't a fan of fruit juice either. And I don't feel bad letting her drink it up. It's healthy, right?
Posted by: Kimberlee Jost | 06/02/2011 at 12:08 PM
I want to feel awesome while I workout too! And I have never been a thankful soccer/baseball mom and I am sorry for it! Wish I had learned that earlier in life!
Posted by: Angie M | 06/02/2011 at 12:13 PM
As a mom to 4 athletic girls we use Gatorade all the time to stay hydrated for cross country, track and at softball tournaments. I love Dicks Sporting Goods.
Posted by: Michelle Etheridge | 06/02/2011 at 12:13 PM
Definately changes the way I look at it. Unfortunately, I am still in the baby stage as well so it's tough to enjoy the games but I love to watch my boys play because they have such passion!
Posted by: Melissa Hermon | 06/02/2011 at 12:13 PM
We go through a lot of Gatorade at our house, especially in the Summer. Love all the fun flavors!! (Love Dick's too!! :))
Posted by: Valerie Alexander | 06/02/2011 at 12:18 PM
I've always been a big fan of Gatorade - we keep it around the house even when we're not participating in sports, we love the stuff!
Great giveaway!!
Posted by: Amanda Jo | 06/02/2011 at 12:21 PM
Calvin feels like he rules the world when he drinks Gatorade. It has always cracked me up. Viva la Gatorade!
Posted by: Flower Patch Farmgirl | 06/02/2011 at 12:22 PM
Tweeted!! http://twitter.com/#!/TheAmandaJo
Posted by: Amanda Jo | 06/02/2011 at 12:25 PM
My boys and husband LOVE Gatorade!! They are always playing ball (any kind!) outside together and with friends. After the heat wave we have had the last few days, Gatorade has come back as a daily drink again.
Posted by: LaRae | 06/02/2011 at 12:31 PM
We need a separate budget category for Gatorade at our house! What fun!! Thanks!
Posted by: Jen | 06/02/2011 at 12:34 PM
great ideas!
Posted by: Raquel Barrios | 06/02/2011 at 12:40 PM
great post! I am a tball mom also...and cheer and now color guard!
Posted by: Holly | 06/02/2011 at 12:47 PM
Been drinking Gatorade since I was a teen in the 70s!
deb meyers
Posted by: deb meyers | 06/02/2011 at 01:01 PM
We are about to start our 3 1/2 year old in dance and soccer, so Gatorade and sporting goods shopping will both be in my future. Currently my husband plays as well as refs soccer (high school, college, and mens' rec league), so we are well familiar with Gatorade and its benefits!
lauramlyons at gmail dot com
Posted by: Laura | 06/02/2011 at 01:10 PM
My kids love Gatorade and we all love Dick's Sporting Goods. Thanks for the giveaway!
Posted by: Alicia | 06/02/2011 at 01:11 PM
I love every idea, post on this blog! So helpful too!
Posted by: kim | 06/02/2011 at 01:15 PM
Wow! We love Mia Hamm!!! And Gatorade! And Dick's Sporting Goods!! And Meg!!! Three daughters in sports - girl power!
Posted by: Karen H. | 06/02/2011 at 01:15 PM
My son recently got introduced to Gatorade w/ his 1st soccer season... but it's SO cute b/c he calls it Alig'ade [like AliGATOR] :) He LOVES it!!
& boy does his Momma need a new pair of shoes from Dick's!
Posted by: renee | 06/02/2011 at 01:18 PM
We are big Gatorade drinkers here! This was a great interview! Great job!
Posted by: Mindi | 06/02/2011 at 01:29 PM
I love Gatorade and Dick's Sporting Goods!
Posted by: Amanda R. | 06/02/2011 at 01:29 PM
My oldest of 4 plays travel baseball. That means most weekends are baseball tournaments for 4 months (they play 3-5 games in a weekend). I have always felt very strongly that we are to go as a family. I personally love being at the ball park on the weekends with everyone and my family. Sweaty little kids running amuck and lots of snacks all day....wouldn't have it any other way. :)
Posted by: Deanna | 06/02/2011 at 01:32 PM
Great post! I loved playing sports when I was a kid. I was pretty shy growing up, but sports helped me find the confidence I needed to be myself. =)
Posted by: Candice | 06/02/2011 at 01:36 PM
so true! my husband has been a dedicated gatorade drinker since he was a young 'un. i always loved it while playing sports and even when i was sick - i always reached for lemon-line gatorade. love the stuff!
Posted by: kellie s. | 06/02/2011 at 01:39 PM
i want to feel THAT good while excercising. looks like i will be checking out the gatorade site soon!
Posted by: Colleen | 06/02/2011 at 01:40 PM
Tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/candiceweathers/status/76358718530396160.
Posted by: Candice | 06/02/2011 at 01:49 PM
Love this post!!! Sports and nutrition are so important for everyone!!!
Posted by: Kristin Y. | 06/02/2011 at 01:50 PM
great prize-thanks
Posted by: jen | 06/02/2011 at 01:50 PM
Great post! Thanks for sharing and the chance to win!
Posted by: Tracy | 06/02/2011 at 01:52 PM
Great prize! and great reminder about the importance of proper hydration.
Posted by: Sandi Price | 06/02/2011 at 01:53 PM
Wow-glad I heard this! I have a wee one, but will try to remember as she grows to value that time.
Posted by: Renee Cantwell | 06/02/2011 at 01:55 PM
My kiddos are too little for sports but this is such good advice. It really is a great time to support each other and to view it as such is a gift. Too many time we forget and just think of it as a burden.
Posted by: Ali | 06/02/2011 at 01:59 PM
I'm not quite to this stage of life...but it's coming! I like the "family time" perspective...I'll remember that :)
Posted by: karie.mcintosh@gmail.com | 06/02/2011 at 02:02 PM
We love spending time together outside in the summer. Staying hydrated in hot weather is definitely important!
Thanks for the giveaway!
Posted by: Amy | 06/02/2011 at 02:02 PM
I just loaded up my garage fridge w/Gatorade for all the ball games and outdoor play time that is summer around here!
I love what Mia's mom said about family time being at the ball park! I, too, have considered spending a day at the field a burden, but no longer will I look at it that way! Thanks for sharing her insight!
Posted by: Tonya | 06/02/2011 at 02:02 PM
this was so good for me to read...very encouraging. with 2 boys in baseball right now, we spend a lot of time at the field. thanks for helping me see it in a better light. i am encouraged! :)
Posted by: sara @ it's good to be queen | 06/02/2011 at 02:04 PM
Great post...interesting facts about Gatorade. I always thought of it as expensive Kool Aid...a fun but not necessary expense. I think I will look into it more!
Posted by: Janelle | 06/02/2011 at 02:06 PM
interesting...and motivating..as a mama to 4 boys - we love gatorade AND dick's sporting goods store...heaven on earth for my boys!!!
Posted by: Jody | 06/02/2011 at 02:07 PM
tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/saragood2bqueen
Posted by: sara @ it's good to be queen | 06/02/2011 at 02:09 PM
My step-son isn't into organized sports, but he loves riding his bike and swimming in the summertime. It's easy to forget that you can get dehydrated anytime, doing anything. We'll need to keep that in mind this summer.
Posted by: Paula | 06/02/2011 at 02:17 PM
I have 3 boys that LOVE their sports and LOVE shopping at Dick's... It has been so fun watching them learn and grow and become better athletes with each passing year.
Posted by: Shelly | 06/02/2011 at 02:21 PM
I have been trying for weeks to find the Natural version of Gatorade, I don't want the dyes or the High Fructose Corn Syrup!
Great post and this spring season we are wrapping up is the second one with all four kids playing something and the first where I could have the better attitude of THIS is family time too.
Jennifer
Posted by: Jennifer in VA | 06/02/2011 at 02:30 PM
SO glad that they came out with a version of their product that doesn't have all the added junk. Yeah! I'll have to see if I can track it down.
Just dropped a chunk o' change at Dick's yesterday, so a gift card sure would come in handy for the next trip.
Posted by: Jennifer | 06/02/2011 at 02:37 PM
orange is my favorite.
Posted by: Denae | 06/02/2011 at 02:46 PM
Love gatorade! Thanks for the giveaway.
Posted by: Kelly | 06/02/2011 at 02:56 PM
Love Mia Hamm!
Posted by: Tim | 06/02/2011 at 03:03 PM
I am excited to check out the actual facts behind the truth about hydration...I couldn't agree more after not fueling well for training runs, but then having great experiences during races after fueling well (including LOADS of Gatorade!).
Posted by: Juliana | 06/02/2011 at 03:08 PM
Would love to win - thanks!
Posted by: Sandra K | 06/02/2011 at 03:26 PM
I used to feel bad that we made everyone (4 kids) go to all the games all the time, but this post has encouraged me to keep it up! In our house, the boys look forward to picking their favorite Gatorade flavor to drink at their game. Thanks for the giveaway and the new perspective!
Posted by: melanie | 06/02/2011 at 03:34 PM
Okay, you've peaked my interest. I've never been "into sports" -- but as a mom I am much more aware of the need to be active myself as an example to my own kids. I want my kids to have a healthy life style and I know that starts with me. So, I'm going to look into this hydration information on Gatorade's website a bit more. I'd love to be surprised with how good I can feel while exercising! Thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Bethany | 06/02/2011 at 03:39 PM
So timely for me. We are in the process of tryouts and finishing this season. It seems like so much, but maybe I just need to change the way I view it.
Posted by: T. Lex | 06/02/2011 at 03:40 PM
great perspective - thanks for sharing!
Posted by: jodi @ back40life | 06/02/2011 at 03:43 PM
I think it is so important for the whole family to be involved and attend siblings sporting events (when possible). Not only does it show love and support, it is a learning experience!
Posted by: Katie H | 06/02/2011 at 03:54 PM
My son can't get enough Gatorade...and we love Dick's Sporting Goods! I always feel more motivated to work out if I have new cute workout clothes :)
Posted by: Rebecca | 06/02/2011 at 03:58 PM
My daughter is only 4...and we have only experienced Blast Ball (t-ball for 4 year olds) - but I'm excited for more sports experiences!! Yay fmaily time!
Posted by: Ashley | 06/02/2011 at 04:07 PM
I am an athlete who drinks Gatorade and shops at Dick's Sporting Goods.. no kids but I spent a lot of time supporting siblings at sporting events for "family time!"
Posted by: Elizabeth | 06/02/2011 at 04:10 PM
I met my Hubs at Univ of Florida--home of where Gatorade was invented for the Florida Gators! So we love Gatorade and buy it often for our 3 active boys.
Posted by: Michele Renee | 06/02/2011 at 04:14 PM
I'm not much of an athlete :)...but I do love gatorade! And I can definitely think of a few things to buy at Dicks! Thanks for all the info.
Posted by: rachel beverlin | 06/02/2011 at 04:17 PM
Wow. I am one of those people that doesn't get how it could possibly feel good to exercise. I don't like it. Uh huh. Not at all.
I also don't like to drink water. I know, I know.... but maybe that is the connection.
Posted by: Kate @ Songs Kate Sang | 06/02/2011 at 04:37 PM
We are a year round sports family and use a ton of gatorade.
Posted by: Gina in Louisville | 06/02/2011 at 04:46 PM
http://twitter.com/#!/SongsKateSang/status/76404041474772993
Posted by: Kate @ Songs Kate Sang | 06/02/2011 at 04:52 PM
I love to exercise, but I have never said "i never knew i could feel this good while exercising". Wouldn't that be fantastic!
And what a blessing to realize it's not a burden, but family time :)
Posted by: Julie | 06/02/2011 at 04:55 PM
athletics can be the reason some kids come to school. I coached cross country for many years and I saw the benefits of sports in the lives of so many youngsters. Thanks for this offer.
Posted by: {beth} | 06/02/2011 at 05:31 PM
Wow. I have always seen tournaments etc as kind of a pain. Never again. It is truly family time! Family time is being together!
Thanks Stephanie and Meg!
Posted by: Trish | 06/02/2011 at 05:31 PM
I would love a gift card to Dicks! New gear always makes me feel like exercising!
Posted by: Leah | 06/02/2011 at 05:36 PM
It is so hot here already in AR. I was just thinking I needed to get some Gatorade! We are major outdoor people & in this heat we gotta stay hydrated. ;)
Posted by: Amy | 06/02/2011 at 05:50 PM
We love Dick's Sporting Goods and Gatorade :)
Posted by: Lesley | 06/02/2011 at 05:56 PM
Hydration and fun new workout gear are both definitely great motivators!
Posted by: Arielle | 06/02/2011 at 06:19 PM
i like the perspective of being at games as family time - it puts a positive spin on something that could be a real bummer of a situation if you let it be! :)
Posted by: angela | 06/02/2011 at 06:22 PM
gatorade is the best in the middle of the night, when you wake up so thristy from all the sweat you used up the day before!
Posted by: Melissa | 06/02/2011 at 06:32 PM
I hope that when I'm a momma, my kids will enjoy sports just like their dad (My fiance) does! He played football since high school, and he's crazy for sports! His family is so close because of it. There's nothing like watching football with his family, loud and fun! I love it so much! Thanks for posting! :)
Posted by: hannah | 06/02/2011 at 06:38 PM
This is a great reminder heading into summer!
Posted by: Linda B | 06/02/2011 at 06:46 PM
I'm a runner & love gatorade, it's definitly been a big part of my training plans & to keep me going!
Posted by: Melissa H | 06/02/2011 at 07:27 PM
Love Gatorade! Would love a Dick's gift card too! When I'm spending the weekend at a swim meet, I will try to remember that it's family time. Thanks Mrs. Hamm!
Posted by: Tina I | 06/02/2011 at 08:08 PM
Over the years, we have pouted at times at the thought of yet another weekend long volleyball tournament, swim meet or sporting clay tournament. Each of our 3 children found something they love to do and each of them excelled at the time so we sucked it up, went, and were always so glad we did in the end. Isn't it funny how we can dread these things, then love them? I will admit there were times when I went with one daughter out of town for a volleyball tournament while my husband went out of town with another daughter for a swim meet and I always felt badly for our son who was dragged along to one place or another if we couldn't find a friend he could stay with instead of going to watch his two sisters in their sports. Since he's the youngest and the girls are out of high school and off at college, he has our undivided attention and we NEVER say a word and go happily along to watch his shooting tournaments and we know that when he is finished one day, it will probably only be a few years before we do the same thing for our grandchildren! Ha Ha! I'm not rushing that!! The Gatorade people would love us because over the years we sure have filled up a lot of coolers with it.
Posted by: Logan | 06/02/2011 at 08:10 PM
This is the first year my daughter has played a sport. She is 7 and started tball in May. I was concerned that because of her inexperience, on a team with experienced players, she would be left behind, left out or made fun of. I was completely wrong. Her coaches foster an environment of fun, nurturing and support. The kids are competitive but not at the expense of each other. She has learned so much, not just about actually playing but also about good sportsmanship, and team work. Her coaches said tonight after practive "Good hustle". And she does. Every practice. I am so proud.
Posted by: Lin | 06/02/2011 at 08:16 PM
Our family LOVES Gatorade! Bring on Summer baby!!!! :)
Posted by: Jess Mead | 06/02/2011 at 08:47 PM
Gatordade is a staple in our house,a must have for my soccer kids!!!
Posted by: Denice Cecil-Ho | 06/02/2011 at 08:54 PM
Awesome!! My kids already love their Daddy's Gatorade and now they can have their own special bottle!! :)
Posted by: Sarah Rollins | 06/02/2011 at 08:59 PM
Our family LOVES soccer tournament weekends! We make a fun family outing of it; pack lunches, load up the card games, etc. Some of our best memories are spent sitting at the soccer fields for the whole weekend watching the boys play and my husband coach. I will really miss those days!
Posted by: Sugar Mama | 06/02/2011 at 09:16 PM
Great post. My kids love Gatorade and Dick's Sporting Goods. We would put the gift card to good use. :-)
Posted by: Jody | 06/02/2011 at 09:21 PM
awesome. I have not tried the "new" gatorade, but I will find a coupon and go by some for my T-ball player and our daddy the "coach" :) I will be drinking mine from the cheering section.
Posted by: megan | 06/02/2011 at 09:38 PM
Perfect timing considering we're all packing up to head to a lacrosse tournament in 97 degree weather. Gatorade is definitely on our "What to Bring" list.
Posted by: Angela | 06/02/2011 at 09:38 PM
Gatorade is one of my favorite summertime drinks! It reminds me of summer camp and band camp and soccer games.
Posted by: Joy | 06/02/2011 at 09:46 PM
I remember sneaking a sip of my brothers Gatorade that was in the fridge when he was in high school 40 years ago! I think they only had one flavor then.
And now I am sneaking sips from my kids!
Posted by: Jane | 06/02/2011 at 09:47 PM
Our family LOVES Gatorade! I buy two eight packs every week! G2 is our favorite! Since I have three sons and a basketball coach husband, Dicks Sporting Goods would be a wonderful gift!!! Hope I win :)
Posted by: Dawn Eshnaur | 06/02/2011 at 09:54 PM
Loved the remark from Mia's mom about family time. Thanks for sharing. I'm loving all your Gatorade goodness!!
Posted by: Jessie | 06/03/2011 at 01:09 AM
Very cool. $100 would be awesome
Posted by: Christen | 06/03/2011 at 01:29 AM
i am so glad that gatorade now has the no-dye line of drinks. pretty please, pick me!
Posted by: carly | 06/03/2011 at 05:22 AM
I, too, always felt like I was dragging to "just another game" and dreading taking my 3yo with me because she's "bored". Thanks Meg, because i will now think of you and the fact that we are spending quality time as a family! Thank you.
Posted by: wendy, NJ | 06/03/2011 at 06:19 AM