TRAIN RUN HOPE CURE

hey :)

2009-01-12T15:08:00.000-08:00

Hey there, friends :) Remember this site?? I pulled something off it today to use at my women's Bible Study... and wanted to say that I'm thinking of you all and sending you hugs. It's been almost 3 months since we ran together. Wow - lots has happened in those 3 months! :) Seems like almost a year ago (especially if I was to have to run 13.1 miles in the next week!)

Hoping that you are finding joy and peace - whether you are running/walking or not :) Lots of love to you :)

P.S. when's our next reunion?

A Final Thank You

2008-11-09T12:30:00.000-08:00

It has been three weeks since the seven of us ran/walked the race we'd been training for since March. I think I speak for us all when I say, it was an incredible experience and we owe a gigantic THANK YOU to all the people that supported us along the way! Thank you for reading our updates, visiting our websites, listening to our complaints, tending to our aches and pains, providing childcare, offering encouragement, training with us, inspiring us with your stories, allowing us to run in honor of your loved ones, and donating $29,826.15 to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society on our behalf! Wow! Add that to the money raised across the country and $18 million will make quite a difference in the lives of so many facing cancer. That's worth running for and we could not have done it without you. Thank you for choosing to participate in this journey.

And to my fellow teammates, thank you for sharing this with me.

Until next time...

Amy's Weekend/Race Report

2008-10-23T14:46:00.000-07:00

My report of the weekend and race can be found here. I can't wait to read yours whether posted here or sent via email. I have a million questions that I never got to ask Sunday night:

Were you nervous at the start?
Did you ever experience the runner's high?
Did you hit the wall or a "bite me zone?"
How did you feel half way through your race?
How did you feel as you crossed the finish line?
How does it feel now that you're a marathoner?
When's your next race? (I'm only asking this because so many of you have already started talking about it!)

Those are just a few of the things I'd wished I asked in SF but hope to hear all about soon. Again, CONGRATULATIONS ON THIS AMAZING ACCOMPLISHMENT!!

WE DID IT!!!! Go Team!

2008-10-20T18:08:00.000-07:00

And They're Off!

2008-10-16T22:10:00.000-07:00

Dear family, friends and internet strangers,

We are off to our marathon weekend! Wish us luck as we travel to San Francisco to complete the Nike Women's Marathon/Half Marathon! It's so exciting! And I can't stop using exclamation points! I'm not sure about the others but I am not bringing my computer in an attempt to just enjoy the experience. However, there will be plenty of recaps and stories to tell when we return next week!

Thanks again for following our journey, for financially supporting us through the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and for encouraging us to keep going! We are SO grateful for you!

Send your good thoughts and prayers out on our behalf on Sunday morning!

GO TEAM!

Dog Tags

2008-10-15T19:26:00.001-07:00

Tonight was our team send-off dinner. It was great fun, filled with energy, laughter, and lots of info. Coaches gave out silly certificates for different things...best team smile, best jokes, etc. I guess you can say the team honored patient is/was a man named Pete. He's always mentioned at team runs, his sons are big TNT participants. Pete died a few years ago just weeks before an event. In his honor, the Long Island Chapter has dog tags (3 sets) that have Pete's mantra on it "ucandoit" as well as his name. At each send-off the coaches/mentors/TC's vote on who they want to wear the tags at the events being run. The criteria is "TNT spirit, someone who 'get's it', someone who represents why we run, why we train, why we do this." That TNT member wears Pete's tags at the event, then returns them so the next team member can wear them at the next race. You can imagine my surprise and my tears when they handed them to me. I'm honored, I'm humbled, I'm shocked. I wear them proudly.

The tears have started already and I'm still in NY. I told you I was going to be a sloppy mess through all this!

The Mental Game

2008-10-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

Below are some things I've found inspirational and/or motivating and will be repeating over and over this week as well as during the race. Use what inspires you.

Songs:

I Run For Life
Written By Melissa Etheridge
2005, The Greatest Hits The Road Less Traveled

It's been years since they told her about it
The darkness her body possessed
And the scars are still there in the mirror
Everyday that she gets herself dressed
Though the pain is miles and miles behind her
And the fear is now a docile beast
If you ask her why she is still running
She'll tell you it makes her complete

CHORUS

I run for hope
I run to feel
I run for the truth
For all that is real
I run for your mother your sister your wife
I run for you and me my friend I run for life

It's a blur since they told me about it
How the darkness had taken its toll
And they cut into my skin and they cut into my body
But they will never get a piece of my soul
And now I'm still learning the lesson
To waken when I hear the call
And if you ask me why I am still running
I'll tell you I run for us all

CHORUS

And someday if they tell you about it
If the darkness knocks on your door
Remember her remember me
We will be running as we have before
Running for answers
Running for more

Survivor
Written by Beyonce Knowles, Anthony Dent & Matthew Knowles
2001, Survivor, Destiny's Child

I'm a survivor
I'm not gonna give up
I'm not gon' stop
I'm gonna work harder
I'm a survivor
I'm gonna make it
I will survive
Keep on survivin'
I'm a survivor
I'm not gonna give up
I'm not gon' stop
I'm gonna work harder
I'm a survivor
I'm gonna make it
I will survive
Keep on survivin'

Matras:

I am strong.
I will not quit.
If he/she can survive chemo & radiation, I can surely finish this little walk.
My only job is to endure.
Just one foot in front of the other.
After this, I can have a cupcake. After this, I can have a cupcake. After this, I can have a cupcake. Make that ten cupcakes. (Courtesy of my friend, Mary.)
Have you hit a brick wall? Aim higher and jump over it.

Quotes:

Run the first part with your head, the middle part with your personality, and the last part with your heart. -Mike Fanelli
It hurts up to a point and then it doesn't get any worse. -Ann Trason
Pain is temporary. It may last a minute, or an hour, or a day, or a year, but eventually it will subside and something else will take its place. If I quit, however, it lasts forever. - Lance Armstrong
My thighs may not be the prettiest or the fastest out here on this...road, but when I ask them to move, they move. They’re getting me where I need to go and for that, I love them. -Melissa W.
Look here for more great running quotes!

Things that make me laugh:

Girl, please, my mascara runs faster than you. (Courtesy of my Melissa Wallenbeck)
Shunderwear (Courtesy of Katie Kane)
Girl runners are hot! (Courtesy of Heidi Slouffman)

Last Minute Ideas

2008-10-14T07:24:00.000-07:00

Holy cow we leave on Friday. I will try not to "Mommy-stress" between now and then. So much to do, so little time.... I can sleep on the plane! :)

Ok. My last minute "to-do's"... For my TNT run last month I got my singlet. (word of warning, they're SHORT!...Like, not even clearing the belly-button!) I went to my local craft store (Michaels, AC Moore) and got iron-on transfers that can go in the printer from my computer. I printed out a pic of my grandfather with the words "In Memory" above it, and a pic of Gid with the words "In Honor". I then ironed them onto my singlet. Way cool. I'm also putting ribbons in the faculty rooms of all the buildings I've taught in....people can write the names of family and friends that have battled cancer. I will pin them to the back of my singlet. Really motivational when you're tired!

March to October 2008

2008-10-10T00:31:00.000-07:00

Dear running/walking friends,

On Sunday, March 9, 2008, I wrote an email titled "10 Reasons to Call Me Crazy" and sent it to you. It was about 4am and I was pretty sure I would regret sending it once I was a bit less sleep deprived. In it I listed 10 reasons why you could finish the Nike Women's Marathon and why it was even a good idea. I was positive that while one or two of you might entertain the idea, it would never really happen. You're all busy wives, mothers, working inside the home, outside the home and training for a long distance event is quite a commitment. Plus, we're not runners! I mean, a few of you ran a bit in college but most of us weren't running as a regular part of our current lives. This was a ridiculous idea and since I wasn't even sure I wanted to do another marathon, I was banking on the fact that you would call me out on my insanity and ship me off to the nearest treatment center, therefore, allowing me to avoid another 26.2 mile race. Phew! Close one.

Except that's not at all what happened! Your responses started coming in and they read something like this:
"Call ME crazy, but that actually seems like a really neat idea, Amy."
"As I was out for a walk yesterday, I was thinking I will consider it."
"It's actually kind of tempting."
"Ok. I am crazy....I'm considering too. Holy cow what am I possibly getting myself into??????????"
"I think I'm interested. Maybe. I'm interested. I think."
"I'm in."

What was going on? Who were these people I thought I knew? They were supposed to laugh at me, question my my mental health, anything but agree to take on this challenge. Then the voice of reason appeared like an angel from heaven:
"WWWWWWHHHHHHHAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTT??????????!!!!!!!!!! I'm rubbing my head in disbelief... I hate running. Hate it...So how on earth would I find the motivation to get my butt out the door and train? What the-- You guys! The pressure!!!"

Surely, this one loud and convincing voice would rise above the rest because after all, most of us "hate running." Eventually, we had heard from 10 and all were seriously considering it, well 9 were considering it and 1 was hoping to withstand the peer pressure. I had one last hope."Sorry I'm just writing now... I must admit, when I hadn't checked e-mail for 5 days I knew that I would have quite a few e-mails but not THIRTY (from just you Houghton girls!) It's been great fun reading through them all and even the thought of running a marathon and/or h-m sounds incredibly crazy, but fun!, with all of you in SF!!:)" That was it. Even the above mentioned "angel" reluctantly gave in as she said, "OH YOU GUYS!!!!!!! I love/hate you all in a very twisted way." There was nothing more I could do but accept the fact that there would indeed be a 2nd marathon in my life.

The following weeks prompted debates about whether or not childbirth was more difficult than running a marathon and discussions about how many benefits there could be to actually following through with this: smaller butts, practice of discipline, enjoying a weekend with the girls, overall health and of course, actively supporting our friends and family who had faced cancer. Then as the reality of this commitment began to set it, words like terrified, scared, and overwhelmed began to appear as did training schedules and tips found online. You were all very proactive despite the understandable fears that existed. Some decided they couldn't join us (and one found out she was pregnant!) but in the end 7 of us signed on the dotted line and officially committed to conquering those fears, to training for the next 6 months and to raising collectively over $28,000 for blood cancer research and patient support. Remember how frightening that felt?

Well, here we are, one week from our departure to San Francisco and 9 days from the Nike Women's Marathon/Half Marathon. We've spent countless hours running, walking, stretching, cross-training, building our physical/mental strength and endurance and encouraging each other when we weren't sure we believed our own words. We've faced injuries, mental hurdles, doubts & fears. We've done it. WE ARE READY. On October 19th, we will join 20,000 other athletes and embark on the final leg of this particular journey.

Over the next week, in addition to list-making, packing and making sure you are well rested, nourished and hydrated, take some time to reflect on how far you've come. Whether your longest distance has been 9 miles or 20 miles, I bet you didn't think that was possible last March. You know everything you need to know to have a successful race. You will cross the Nike finish line on the Great Highway!

There's one finish line we've already crossed and that is the fundraising finish line. Again, last March, raising $28,000 for any cause, no matter how worthy, was quite daunting. Well, final funds are still being calculated but we've raised over $29,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society!

Of course, we owe so much to the generous people in our lives that stepped up to join us in this important work with their financial contributions, encouraging words, baby sitting offers, running partner offers, the list goes on. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

It wasn't easy but we did it! You did it! I'm so proud of you all and can't wait to see you in San Francisco to complete the mission! GO TEAM!

With love and admiration,
Amy

!!!!!!

2008-10-05T05:32:00.000-07:00

OH MY GOODNESS WE DID IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I will admit, 5 months ago when we started this, that fundraising ticker-thingy was a tad overwhelming! I mean, I knew we could do it, but it just seemed so huge. $28,000!!! We did it gals!!!!

Packing List

2008-10-04T16:35:00.000-07:00

Now that we're two weeks away, have you thought about the actual trip to San Francisco? What are the must-remember items on your packing list? And are you planning to fit everything into a carry-on, or will you be checking luggage? I think I can fit everything into a carry-on, but I'm not sure if I'll be able to fit all of my liquids into a quart sized Ziploc bag . . . Does anyone know if things like lotion, sunscreen, & face wash count as liquids?

The Big "C"

2008-10-01T07:39:00.000-07:00

The Big "C"

by Kathy Cawthon, Survivor

The big "C" I heard someone call it.

Another just whispered the word.

That we don't even dare

to say "cancer" out loud

Gives it power it doesn't deserve.

So I'm giving that letter new meaning

and refusing to give into fear,

by reclaiming the power for you and for me

and by saying these words loud and clear.

Let the "C" be for Cure and Compassion.

Let it stand for the Candles we light.

and a Chorus of voices shouting You Can!

to all who will take up this fight.

Let the "C" be for Cash Contribution.

Credit or Check will work too.

Let it stand for Commitment and

Checkups and Cheer

and the Children Counting on you.

To everyone facing this Challenge

I say it's a fight we Can win.

Tell all who will listen, that starting today

That "C" is for Courage, my friend.

Delirium at Mile 21

2008-09-29T11:55:00.000-07:00

While some people experience the infamous "runner's high" as the miles increase, Elizabeth and I seem to experience delirium. Perhaps they are the same thing, I don't know, but it was fun-ny! Elizabeth is one of my Westside TNT teammates and we happened to do our 20-miler together yesterday. We started out at 6am and I knew this one was going to be difficult. I was exhausted and my legs felt like lead but I was going to finish, I had to.

The funny thing about Elizabeth and I training together is that we tend to be a bit grumpy at 6am. Neither of us are morning people and in general, we're probably not the ones people look to when needing a perky bit of encouragement on the course. (I think we even spent one morning actually competing for the title of bitchier bitch! :) We both have training partners that are cheery and positive enough to make up for our deficit in this area. Well, with the absence of these perky partners on Sunday, one of us was going to have to adjust or we would never make it. Elizabeth stepped right into that roll! It was amazing and Jen, her training partner, would have been so proud.

I have to admit, I barely remember the details of the morning. By the time we turned the corner for our final few blocks we were so delirious that everything was hilarious and we had even caught up with a couple fellow teammates who were also in a similar state. Elizabeth kept saying miles when she meant minutes and I, seriously, could not stop laughing. Everything from the waist down hurt but I continued to laugh and I laughed all the way home. I think this might have been my body slipping into survival mode. How else is it supposed to react to this many miles?!

Now, you may have noticed that I've titled this entry "Delirium at mile 21" but in the first paragraph I mention we were scheduled for a 20 miler. Well, those of us that started early were given wrong course directions and when all was said and done, I discovered we actually completed 21.8 miles! With the exception of some pretty impressive blisters and the general soreness of every inch of my body, I feel pretty good! And I'm ready. Seriously. I can't believe it but I feel ready for Nike!

So many generous people have joined in and made donations over the last couple weeks and I AM OVERWHELMINGLY GRATEFUL to each of you! Thank you Danielle & Jeremiah Frink, Angela Uhl, Krista Roorbach, Carol Samrualruen, Anonymous, Jeff Gray, Gabe Ben-Meir, Rochelle Holguin, Gina Esposito, Paul Logan, Brenda Antonio, Amie Cole, Jill Brune, Mary & Jarod McBride and Joan Begemann for helping me come so close to the goal of $3200! With a couple additional donations that are on their way, I think I'm $125 away! Truly amazing. Thank you for your partnership and support for this worthy cause.

Quote

2008-09-28T05:21:00.000-07:00

I saw this quote for the first time on Friday. Thought I'd share...

"Pain is temporary. It may last a minute, or an hour, or a day, or a year, but eventually it will subside and something else will take it's place. If I quit, however, it will last forever."

~Lance Armstrong.

Houghton Homecoming Run Invitation

2008-09-27T19:00:00.000-07:00

Hey all (this included ANYONE reading this post),

This is a cordial invitation to anyone who would like to join us. The Western NY portion of our infamous little band (Kristen, Heidi, and Ginny) are getting together at Houghton this Saturday to do our long run together. We'll be doing 8 miles, with one of us going on for a total of 12. Feel free to join us for a mile, 2 miles, 6 miles, whatever. We'd love the Houghton Homecoming company! Place and time to be determined. Watch this post for more info.

Mud and Medals

2008-09-27T15:37:00.000-07:00

I did it!!! Ok, I know that some of you have done this before, and others do it on a weekly basis, but I've never done more than 10 miles. HOLY CRAP I JUST DID A HALF MARATHON!!!! I was a little slower than I wanted to be, but considering the horrible weather conditions, the pee break, and the photo-ops, I really can't complain. I finished. That was the first goal.

Did I mention the weather??? Hmmm...... I think the floodgates of Heaven opened for us. Soaked. Absolutely drenched. I had to wring out my SOCKS at the finish line. My underwear were wet. My ponytail dripped down my back for 13 miles. We started the race in designer Hefty bags. We were a sight, let me tell you! I chuckled when I heard someone ask if they made gutters for hats and visors. The rain was unbelievable.

Yes, the first event had to be a photo-op. We took pictures together at the signs for 5K and 10k. 15K was next to the "Flood Zone" sign. Pics of the vineyards, farms, the gigantic mud pit we ran in (miles 5-7) and the Peconic Bay (when it seemed that mile 10-11 really was a bit longer than all the others). I also had to stop and take a picture with the friendly police lady in the bright orange raincoat....after all, she stopped traffic for me! It's only fair that she makes it into the marathon chronicles!

Wow. And even with all the aches and pains and the end of the adrenaline rush, I can say that it was FUN! Let's do it again!!!

Seven and a half miles - 82 minutes.

2008-09-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

I've decided that I need a weekly pep rally to get me through these last few weeks. Feel free to join in so I can cheer you on as well!! ;-)

Today was my 7.5 mile run. I had some of a coffee drink that Michael made me this morning, and I think eating (um, or drinking) BEFORE I ran was quite helpful this week! The first four miles were awesome! The fifth - not so much, but after I figured out (duh) that I needed to slow my pace, I was walking on air during mile six. Mile seven was fine - add half a mile and I was done! Woo Hoo!! It took me 82 minutes, which keeps me at about a 11 min/mile pace. I KNOW it'll probably get messed up on race day between the crowds, taking pictures, the infamous 1 mile long hill, etc, but I feel pretty good about it.

Next week I have a nine mile run and then taper back to six for my final long run before race day. My coaches have been very encouraging. I'm so grateful that they've worked with me to develop a training schedule for my - umm, unique - situation.

As far as smells - smelling whatever Michael was eating while I was running mile 5 was NOT helpful. I'm not even going to ask. ;-)

Smells

2008-09-24T18:39:00.000-07:00

Ginny and I talked about the different scents we’ve encountered along our running routes. There are some pretty interesting ones and between the two of us, they varied due to the country vs. suburbs lifestyle. What started the conversation was the smell of manure, which is frequent in my neck of the woods. I commented that it was either chicken or pig and that if Shannon were there, he could tell us. It is one of his spiritual gifts, distinguishing manure scents.

Other things I’ve smelled… Yesterday, I passed two dead animals that were very ripe. Speaking of ripe, one route takes me past an orchard which smelled like peaches for a while and now of apples. The orchard smells are my favorite. I also run by a greenhouse which has flowers and mulch in the air. I also love to smell fresh hay being baled and corn being chopped. What about you? Any interesting scents?

The Original Shunderwear

2008-09-24T18:37:00.000-07:00

Tonight, Shannon discovered that I am not the original shunderwear model. As he was watching the third night of Dancing With the Stars (only for the commercials), Richard Simmons came bopping into a grocery store advertising something to two ladies. Shannon said, “Look, the original shunderwear!” Now, if you didn’t have a mental picture before, think of Richard Simmon's shorts with me in them!

I did wear them for my run yesterday and unfortunately saw more relatives and neighbors than ever before! They did get a wave out of the Mennonite boy down the road.

My Longest Run Ever

2008-09-21T09:58:00.000-07:00

Well, you all are going to laugh, but I had my longest run ever yesterday of 6 miles! Yay! ha ha The best part was that my leg did not hurt at all - so thank goodness for that.

Besides that, there's nothing really good to say about that run. For some reason it was a mental struggle from the very start. The run previous, I did an excellent job with distracting myself in thought. Not so much on yesterday's run. Uggh. I took a few short power walk breaks, didn't drink enough water, and was just plain tired. I ended up finishing it in 67 minutes, which is probably pretty good considering how bad of a run it felt like it was. Not sure how I'm going to add another seven miles in the next four weeks, but it has to be done. I'm glad to do it, just not sure how. Any tips, advice, words of wisdom?

What's The Signifance Of Today?

2008-09-19T16:51:00.001-07:00

September 19, 2008. Well, firstly, it's Heidi K's birthday! Hope you're having a great day, dear friend. And secondly, we are exactly 1 month from race day! We're really almost there, almost ready to cross both finish lines-- marathons & fundraising. We have about $2000 left before reaching our goal of $28,000 which is amazing! Can you feel the excitement building?!

A huge thank you to everyone that has contributed so far, many people will be touched by your generosity and lives will be saved. We are so grateful for your partnership and support.

If you're reading this and would like to help us raise these final dollars, please click on one of the names listed to the right to make a donation today. (Katie, Jen & Kristen O. have reached their goals so please, click on another name to help their fellow runners do the same.) We need your help. Also, feel free to invite your friends and family to join us. We're so close and we have just over a week of fundraising time left!

Marathoners, see you in a month! Until then, keep rockin' it!

Wishing and A-Hoping

2008-09-15T22:21:00.000-07:00

Sunday Long Run- Wishing for 18 miles. It's not unusual for me (and most walkers) to have soreness in the hips at the end or after long workouts. Yesterday, it started on my right side around mile 6, way too early, and it was worse than usual. I guess I'm joining the rest of you, "the I'm in pain crew." It didn't hurt when I was running or walking up hill but the course wasn't all uphill :) and my running stamina is not up to 18 miles. So, I did what I could and then cut it short by about 2 miles. After a strong 16 miler last weekend, I was looking forward to this 18 miler so it was frustrating not to even finish the course. I hope it was wise. I hope the icing and stretching that I'm dedicated to, from this day forward, takes care of the problem. I hope I'll be able to finish the full course next Sunday. I hope that all of us with aches, pains and more serious injuries approach the final weeks with wisdom and positive spirits.

Fundraising- More hoping, I hope I can raise $800 in the next 15 days! I'm getting nervous. Cancer is something all of us can relate to and the research being done will benefit and touch each of us in some way, if it hasn't already. In these economic times, I understand that many of us have less extra money which is why it's so important to give the little bit we can to help those who are adding medical bills on top of the already existing bills. If it's difficult for us financially, it must be that much more difficult for a person or family facing a cancer diagnosis. Please, help them by making a donation of even just $5. If you have more to donate, please feel free but if you don't know that every dollar counts and when combined, small donations become large donations.

Thank you- Ross Kay, Jill Vasant, Ronya Henderson, Linda Bourbeau, Lisa Severino, Kate Klimow, Tina Moon, Kristi Hennessey, Dave Simons, Michelle Tillen, Stephanie Kettner, Wendy Shiba, Stephanie Maruyama, Sandra Zenner, Evelyn Shelton, Michelle Mumford, Carla Slivano, Stan Koyanagi, Melissa Gunzburg and Jennifer DeHaven are the generous people who made donations this week. THANK YOU! And a big thank you to my sister, Melissa, for inviting her colleagues to participate in the fight against cancer. (Thanks, KB Home!) She also sent the invitation to her friends outside of work and some others did the same. There is no question, I could not do this without the support of my family and friends. I hope (there's that word again) that more of you will consider passing along my website to your contacts and invite them to donate $5 to this worthy cause, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

This week, I'm wishing and a-hoping for a lot, for me, my teammates and all those reading this!

Fancy names that I just can't remember

2008-09-15T18:13:00.000-07:00

Well, the verdict seems to be in. I do not have a stress fracture---thank you Jesus! I do, however, have an injured ligament in my foot. This ligament has a big fancy name that I just can't remember. In non-Dr. terms, it is the one that connects the foot to the ankle. I just know that it is swollen and still aches. Here's the deal.... I'm allowed to continue to train as there has been improvement in it. I go back to the Dr. for treatment again next week and twice the week after (before the race)---I am now on a "taper" schedule as my first half marathon is in 12 days. The Dr. is a sports chiropractor who is 1) an athlete himself and 2) is very familiar with TNT and promises to have me back to 100% in time for the events.

I have also been advised to get new sneakers. Who would have thought that my mileage may be "up" on my running shoes???!!! How freaking cool is that???!!!! You mean I actually put enough miles on those bad boys that they need to be put out to the old sneaker pasture? (Katie, do you have one that we can use?)

Now...here is the plug for hydration. This whole injury started 2 weeks ago after a 10 miler in AWFUL conditions. (Kristen, it was probably like what you experienced this past weekend) It was the morning that the tropical storm/hurricane was supposed to hit but then didn't until much later in the day. The humidity was the worst ever. Anyway, LONG story really short, my little group of slow runners and I dehydrated (I'll share that miserable experience another time). The Dr. said that if I swelled really bad (which I did), then I could have cut the circulation in my foot, thus causing injury. I probably stepped wrong, twisted it, something like that, but b/c of the swelling, my footing was off, and I didn't feel it. So girlies, DRINK DRINK DRINK DRINK!!!!

Content in all things

2008-09-15T03:13:00.000-07:00

Well, I ran the 1/2 marathon yesterday here in Rochester - and bottom line, I feel like it was the worst run I've ever completed. Why? Because I stopped and walked for 2 minutes... not a good reason you say? :) In my "running career", what little it has been :), I've never had to walk ANY of my long runs ever, so as soon as I stopped to walk around mile 9, I felt like a failure. Never mind that it was 85 degrees and humid beyond belief, never mind that up until that point I had run UNDER my goal time, never mind that I had to pee from the first mile (the line for the bathrooms were 10+ minutes in wait time before the race, so we decided to go during the run... there WERE no potties on the run! AHH! Not a muscle that I wanted to be holding for 2 hours!!)

So, all this to say, I'm laying in bed this morning calculating the time it would have taken me to reach my goal time - I would have had to run 2 minutes and 38 seconds quicker - that's all - to be at my goal. For some reason, figuring this out made it worse... in my mind I immediately say, "Kristen, of course you could have run that much quicker!" And then I begin to remember how much pain and how much swelling of my head from the heat I was feeling those last 4 miles. And that wonderful still small voice (gotta love it :) begins to bring to mind the Phil. 4:11-12 verse:

"for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want."

Being content. Content in not doing what I thought I would do. Content in being ABLE to run. Content in finishing being enough.

What I did not realize was that the next verse was, ironically: "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." So appropriate for my run to put these two verses side by side. I now read this last verse here in a new light: I can do all things through Him - and one of those things is God giving me the strength to be content. Stop being frustrated, stop berating myself, stop wishing my run to have been different. What I have completed is good enough.

Ever have one of those runs/days? :)

Rain Heads: What a Day to Wear White

2008-09-13T09:08:00.000-07:00

Katie and Ginny here in Houghton, of all places. My (Ginny's) family finally have gotten ourselves housing and are together here at last! Katie came up this weekend to finally deliver a box she smuggled out of NZ for us. It's been so long that Aidan thought the toys in it were presents that Katie brought for the boys. So we did Katie's first 20 miler, and my second, together.

We started at 6:30 this morning. As Katie ate her Cheerios and I ate my cereal bar, we began to hear noises coming from behind the TV. We're in the basement.

Katie here. I asked, "Ginny, is that rain?" She continued with her long run routine with some stretching and in her "I am trusting weather.com" voice replied, "Naaaah!" We made our way up the steps, opened the door to the darkness and saw the steady rain pouring down. I really did not want to do these 20 miles and would have gone back to bed if it wouldn't have been for Ginny's adventurous, determined and never-quitting spirit. So, we started running.

About 0.1 miles into the run, the only thought I had was "what a day to wear white and my shorter-than-my-underwear shorts." I must admit the shorts were a good decision. They have less fabric than any of my other shorts and didn't weigh me down.

Ginny again. I think Katie looked stunning in her shorts -- quite literally. We looked like we meant business, me in my $2 Meijer official running singlet and Katie in her 'shunderwear' and our fancy, sparkly running shoes. AND we were running on Rte. 19. Only die-hard runners brave the 18 wheelers and milk trucks on this route. We had arrived. 11 years later, mind you, but we arrived, nonetheless.

We were doing well. The first 3 miles, I felt heavy. It might have something to do with my pre-run ritual of donut holes. Thanks to Max in Fillmore, the homemade cinnamon donuts from the Houghton gas station (now a Citgo) were weighing me down.

We were trucking along at our stupendous speed of 10 minutes a mile when we hit the plague of the frogs. As we planted water bottles last night, I accidentally ran over a HUGE bullfrog. God forgive me! May s/he rest in peace (can a bullfrog be female??). I think his cousins were out for revenge because on East River Rd., miles 4 to 8, about 5 million more bullfrogs and smaller relatives had given their lives also in protest, or were stationed to spook us out of our stupendous pace.

Katie back in the blog. We arrived in Belfast right on time and were joined by Patty Pepperato and Lucy! We were shocked she accepted our last minute invitation and chose to run 2.5 miles with us in a torrential downpour! We knew we had to do this run but Patty and Lucy get all our respect because they willing joined our craziness. We really enjoyed the new company and mini-reunion. Maybe Houghton wants to add a Reunion Run to its alumni weekends? Ginny was extremely thankful for Patty's presence since she had bathroom connections. We had just finished 10 miles and Ginny needed her SECOND break of the run. Patty got on her cell phone, called her friend and Gin had a bathroom within 100 feet. Please take a moment and pray for Ginny's bowels on race day.

Patty and Lucy split away from us at Rte. 19 in Belfast and we continued back toward River Road. We felt good at mile 15, when out of heaven, a tan Toyota Camry was driving toward us. I have never been so happy in my life to see Aaron!!! Don't tell Ginny. Aidan and Rees, with Houghton pom poms in hand, rode in the back cheering for us as Aaron drove at our 1 MPH pace. It was a welcomed distraction and fun addition to our run.

Aaron and the boys stuck with us until we hit Route 19 and then headed home to make our victory waffle feast. Caneadea left us with three miles to go and Ginny's challenge to run the last three at marathon pace. What was she thinking?

We made it. Two of the last three at a nine minute pace and finished running up Luckey Drive hill. As we walked into the house, two towels were waiting, waffles were on the griddle and our cheerleaders were there to greet us. Aidan said he wanted to name us "Rain Heads" and he wants me to come run a marathon with Mommy every day. How about in six weeks?

Less Than 6 Weeks!!

2008-09-12T10:23:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it???? I'd just like to say that I'm honored to call all of you friends. I'm looking forward to CA! Oh, and I have a running skort, too! ;-)

4:30

2008-09-08T10:57:00.000-07:00

That's the time my alarm sounded on Sunday morning. Who's brilliant idea was it to start training at 6am? Oh, right, mine. I have to say, it doesn't matter if it's 4:30am or 5:30am, it feels bad. But I got up, went through my long run prep ritual and headed out to meet the bus...which was late....and crowded! It's really good for me to know and see that buses are crowded, even at 5:30 on a Sunday morning. Anyway, by the time I made it to the Westside meeting place, I was ready to go and we headed out in the dark. It was great! The darkness was peaceful and didn't last too long, the air was cool, the streets and paths were nearly empty. I seriously felt great, we all did! It was probably the best training morning I've had yet and considering 16 miles was the worst training day of last season, I couldn't be happier!

During those 16 miles, I thought about all the people I know who have faced cancer and I found great inspiration in their courage and strength and the fact that we need to do more, we need to find a cure for everyone. I also used a mantra that a KC friend sent (thanks, Mary!) and it worked like a charm. Don't forget, if you have any mantras, thoughts, jokes, quotes, etc. send them my way!

How exciting-- $350 was donated this week! A special thank you to DT & Heidi Slouffman, James DeSimas, Nadia Piotrowsky, Susan Huslage, Lisa Zeshonshi and Kristen & Rob Boardman! I'm so grateful for your generosity. In the next 3 weeks, I need to raise $1075 so I need others to follow their lead. Please visit my website to make a contribution and help find a cure for cancer. Together, we can make a difference.

Today Was A New Day

2008-09-07T16:23:00.000-07:00

Today, I ran the Harrisburg Half Marathon. It was my second half and an important benchmark to measure my marathon training to this point. I didn’t have high hopes going into it because of last Saturday’s 17-mile run. I ended it with aching knees, ankles and a nagging quad pull that shows up every once in a while. Every time I ran in the last week, my legs were tired and I didn’t feel like going. So, I stepped back and hoped for the best.

Hurricane Hannah passed through yesterday and left a gorgeous, low humidity and cool day. The race (unofficially) had around 1000 people running it. My first mile was slow because of all the participants. I walked for 45 seconds before I ever made it to the starting line. (I am sure that will be a lot worse in San Francisco with a few more thousand people.)

I felt good, used mile 4-8 to get on the pace I wanted, had Shannon jump in at mile 10 toting Gatorade and crossed the finish line with a time of 1 hour 57 minutes and 23 seconds!!! I did get a blister and walked away with a bloody bra from chafing, but otherwise I feel pretty good. Shannon got yelled at for running across the finish line with me. Just so you know, you should “never, ever run across the finish line without a chip.” I am proud of him for being the bad boy and wouldn’t wanted anyone else next to me.

Two things really helped me that I can pass onto you. First, I ran 4-miles on Thursday using a treadmill. I have never done that during training but will continue it if I can. I set the pace a little faster (15 seconds) than I wanted to run in the half. At the same time, I kept repeating Isaiah 40:31 in my head. It helped me get a beat that I picked up this morning and paced myself with throughout the race. The second and greater help is what some call “Race Day Magic.” I know it as Divine Intervention. I worked 12 hours yesterday on my feet, ate beef and potatoes, and hardly drank any water -- a total failure in pre-race prep. Thankfully I was reminded this week that “The one who calls you is faithful and He will do it.” I need to get out there and take action but when it comes down to it, I needed God’s faithfulness and strength to get me through the challenge. Keep going ladies!

Skirts, Blisters, and Garbage Bags

2008-09-05T07:21:00.000-07:00

I could start with how this week has been insane....but I won't. We're all in the same boat with the start of school and the chaos that ensues as the "year" begins. (Really, does the year begin on Jan 1st or on Labor Day with the start of school?).

Skirts: Amy clued us in to the race gear (very spandex!) runners pants/shorts. I ordered a pair and I do like them. However, my very wide behind doesn't. I'm a bit self-conscious. I love the little runner's skirts that I see a lot of teammates running in, but with my fat knees--again, too self-conscious. Really, I just don't want to be visually offensive to anyone around me for miles on end. BUT, I found something awesome....a combination of the spandex capris (that my mind likes and my butt does not) and the skirt. Made by atalanta (sp?) and found at www.skirtgoddess.com ...it's awesome! Fat knees covered, wide behind covered with some extra fabric, moisture repelant material, pockets to store all of the goodies. And it is really cute for all of you skinny gals out there! With shorts or capris underneath. Check it out!

Blisters: I caved and bought the Balmex. Really, with the start of school I didn't have time to go to the runners store and buy body glide. The Balmex helped the chaffing on my back too. I'm going to take a bath in it tomorrow morning as we run in a freaking hurricane.

Garbage Bags: the big discussion on my team blog today was "where and when to run tomorrow" as a hurricane/tropical storm/mess is headed our way and expected to make landfall at precisely the same time that we are to be pounding the pavement. Many have opted to run in the mess as Sunday doesn't work for people's schedules. The rest of my training-mates have opted as well to run in the storm, so I guess I'm along for the ride (I mean run). Now the topic is what to wear: shower caps and garbage bags. ????????????? I'm bringing a camera as this ought to be hysterical. I don't know. I haven't figured it all out. The way I see it, this whole thing has been an adventure so let's just keep going with the mystery of training for long distances. Just remind me to have my head examined when this is all over.

And just when I had convinced myself that I deserved a "sleep in" day tomorrow---a day to stay in the pj's and moan and complain about the difficulties of the start of school--I got an email from a dear friend that I work with. Her mother passed away THIS MORNING from Lymphoma. So ladies, this is why we drag our tired little bodies out of bed in a hurricane.

Amy Who?

2008-09-01T11:37:00.000-07:00

"Coach, I feel behind, can we have a mapped out course for next week that covers at least 16 miles? And can we PLEASE start before 7am?"

I'm sure many other runners/walkers have posed the above questions to their coaches and it seemed perfectly normal. The difference here is that I asked the above questions. Me, Amy-loves to sleep in-complained about every added mile last season-Wallenbeck, requested more work and less sleep. It's just one more reason for my family and friends to be concerned about what's happened to the real Amy. Do not be alarmed. Yes, she has been "removed from the situation" but will be returned promptly on October 20th.

My mid-week training felt really good this week, even though I'm running/walking on cement sidewalks which my body doesn't usually like (and who can blame it!) Maybe it's accepted that this is my only option and is learning to deal, I don't know but I felt okay. Yesterday, I met my team for another long one except it wasn't very long at all. I mean, it was long (13.5 miles) but not longer than what I've completed the last several weeks. I've basically walked three half marathons this month which would be fine if I didn't have to complete two half marathons in one day in less than seven weeks! That's when I found the above words exiting my mouth before I could stop them. We'll see what it produces for next week but I've got to get these miles up so I can taper before race day.

The 13.5 miles yesterday was a mixed bag. I felt tight all over for the majority of the walk but it was manageable, the first 6 miles went by quickly, I stopped 3 or 4 times to stretch out some weird cramping in my right thigh during mile 9, and then mile 13 I was in a zone and it felt great! I mean, everything hurt but I had this tunnel vision and focused on finishing strong and before I knew it I had left my partner and coach behind me without even realizing it. I was so concerned about not getting in the mileage I had expected, that I had to make every step count! I think that's as close to experiencing a "runner's high" as I'll ever get.

As we approach the final weeks of preparation, the focus for me becomes more mental than physical. I will begin to use my mantras more and more throughout the coming days, I know it's something that helps me. However, I'm going to be asking my family and friends to provide some of these for me. In my next email update, I'll explain it a bit more but I'll be asking people to submit quotes (by them or someone else) that will motivate me to keep going. And the funnier and more sarcastic, the better! Having a mix of the serious and the humorous will be good for me. So, start thinking!

Audrey Update: She starts kindergarten tomorrow! She's excited and nervous but even mom thinks she's ready. She's doing really well with her treatment. Doctors have continued to increase her meds and she's been able to handle it like a champ! Her family's even starting to plan the big party to celebrate the end of treatment...July 31, 2009. That feels so far away to me but when you're more than half way through what is such a long and difficult treatment plan, I suppose less than a year seems near. Audrey, I wish you a great first day of school!

A Run of Firsts

2008-08-30T14:50:00.001-07:00

I'm sure that in this entire training experience, we've all had moments of "Wow! I've never had _______ (insert experience here) happen before!" We shrug it off, maybe take a minute to acknowledge it, and move on. Today was a morning of so many "firsts" that I need to fill you all in.

1. I have been blessed on my team runs that the weather has been beautiful. Maybe a little muggy, maybe blazing hot, maybe suffocatingly humid, but the sun has always been there. Yeah, not so much today. Today's "first" was running in the pouring rain. Not a little drizzle...POURING. I'm still trying to dry out.

2. I am known for ripping my sneakers off the second the run is over. I'm the last one to put them on and the first one to take them off. I've been known to discuss how badly I want to take those puppies off for the last mile or 2 on a team run. Well, today I was in for a surprise. My feet resembled shriveled up raisins. No joke. They were worse than my kids hands after a rrreeeeeaaaallllyyyy long bath. What's up with that???!!!! I actually displayed them for my other team members because they were such a freak of nature. I think they are actually returning to normal now and it is hours later.

3. Aside from blisters in unmentionable areas I've remained unchaffed. Not so much today. My back and right armpit are rubbed raw. Ginny, my armpit feels your pain. Who knows, maybe it was a sympathy rub. And my back? My sportsbra rubbed 2 spots down to red, raw bruises. Gideon even commented on the marks on my back. No worries, I wear my marks with pride. I just wish I could put my arm down without being aware of my armpit.

4. I have also been blessed with being unblistered. My feet have remained pretty even with all the miles. Uh, no. Today I made up for lost time. I have so many blisters that I can't even count 'em. Yum, just in time to put my feet in real shoes for school this week. That ought to feel fabulous!

So ladies, thank you for recruiting me into this brand new experience. Now I have truly lived...shriveled, chaffed, bruised, blistered, soggy flesh.

Chafing, Oh The Joys Of Running

2008-08-26T20:51:00.000-07:00

I think Katie recently mentioned the abrasive relationship she was having with her clothes lately so I thought an entire blog entry should be dedicated to the enemy known as CHAFING! Every long distance runner/walker knows it's the worst! Nothing says "Oooo, I can't wait to run 13 miles" like the promise of flesh being stripped away in areas where you didn't know flesh existed. Then once the chafing has actually happened, you hope your friends and family can accept your new nudist lifestyle because you're pretty sure putting clothes on ever again is not even remotely possible. I'm convinced chafing can (and will at some point in your training) occur anywhere from head to toe. But don't you worry, there is help! (Cue Hallelujah Chorus!) You don't have to be a victim to chafing anymore thanks to the miracle that is Body Glide, "Comfort for the speed of life."

Seriously, people, it works. It can (and should) be applied anywhere that skin rubs against itself or clothing and as it says on the top, it can even be helpful on your feet. I will forever sing the praises of this product...that is, until something better comes along or until I stop running such ridiculously long distances, whichever comes first. Anyway, if you haven't already, go buy some and give us your life-changing testimonial. (I swear I don't work for the company.)

My last piece of advice to avoid chafing is to wear...spandex. I know, it's dreadful but the sooner you can embrace your butt in a pair of these fashion don'ts the better. It seems backwards but clothes that fit closer to the body are less likely to chafe. So run out right this instant and purchase a pair of these thigh hugging beauties and proudly strut your stuff. Might I even suggest these. (Note the back is lined with pockets, which I used last year to carry gels, ibu profen, kleenex, cell phone, disposable camera & cash, 'cause you never know when you're gonna hit a sale at Macy's!)

Those are my tips for avoiding chafing. Do you have anything to add or even dispute? I'm open to a debate, especially if someone can tell me how to avoid both chafing and spandex!

Rough Waters

2008-08-25T21:19:00.000-07:00

Wow, today started off reeeeeeeally rough but thankfully, ended with a great walk/run and I'm even looking forward to the walks/runs throughout the week! I think it's because we're getting ever closer to race day, which is terrifying and exciting. Thankfully, both emotions lead to motivation. It's terrifying because I do not feel ready for 26.2 miles and it's exciting because soon it will be over! Hallelujah! Okay, okay, it's also going to be a fantastic weekend and the race itself will actually be fun...hard but fun.

This past weekend, I took a little trip to visit my friend, Rania, in San Diego. It was great to get away for a couple days and see friends. Now, I know what you're thinking so go ahead and ask. "Amy, did you run or did you forget that you're a woman in your 30s training for a marathon and party for 48 hours straight?" Well, I had great plans for a good workout Saturday morning while Rania was working and workout clothes took up most of my suitcase space. I mean, between the pants, sports bra, socks, jacket, hat and gigantic running shoes there was barely room for anything else. In fact, there wasn't even room for a shirt...apparently. That's right, I forgot a shirt. And yes, I know that some women run wearing only a sports bra but I also know that just because Susie does it, doesn't mean I should do it. Citizens of San Diego, you can thank me by making a donation here. Now, this shirt thing was not going to stop me, I was going to find a way to work out. I remembered I brought a bathing suit, Rania had a lovely pool, and my friend, Jen, had been water jogging for 3 weeks do to an injury. I'll try that! Of course, I didn't have the flotation device that she said was very important but surely, it isn't absolutely necessary, right?! The pool was really nice but only 5 feet deep, this proved to be tricky. I tried everything, running around the perimeter of the pool, holding on to the side of the pool, the steps of the pool, the handle of the pool's ladder, anything that would give me the height I needed to "run" without hitting the bottom of the pool. I can only imagine the entertainment that I provided for the surrounding apartments. I'm sure I looked ridiculous not only because I was contorting my body every which way in an attempt to simulate running in water that was too shallow but also because I had all my hair shoved into a Nike hat as I tried to protect the newly colored locks from both the sun and chlorine. (Vanity, vanity.) After at least an hour of this, I called it quits. I definitely got a decent workout but I'm not sure I worked any of the intended muscles. Jen, I get it. The flotation device and a deep pool are very, very important! This week, I have a bit of catching up to do but I'm ready. Bring it. (I'm so tough!)

Many, many thanks to Cyndi & Allan Lepine, Mark Nagel, Kori Ayers, and Jenn & Matt Scherdin for your generous donations this week! With your help, we've raised $1775! It's so fun to see where the donations come from and how many seasons of my life are represented by the people that have chosen to join me in this challenge. The above names alone represent my family, a friend/artist I worked with in the KC studio, a friend I worked with back in my college admission days, and a friend/older sister of a friend of mine from elementary school! Over the past several months, donations have come in from such different and sometimes unexpected parts of my life for this one purpose, to support patients and their families and to find a cure for cancer. I know I keep saying it but I really can't thank you enough for your contributions, it's so encouraging. We are $1425 away from the goal and have just 5 weeks left to reach it so if you're reading this now, I hope you'll dig deep and find a way to give a little or big something to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Click here to find out more!

2 Months From Yesterday

2008-08-20T14:32:00.000-07:00

That's right, in just 2 months, we will be joining thousands of TNT members and supporters in the Golden Gate City, celebrating our accomplishments (along with 15 years of friendship) and icing our triumphant muscles! So, it's seems a good time to chime in with general updates. How are you doing and feeling at this point in the training? And how can we best support you?

Confessions of a Non-Teenage Drama Queen

2008-08-18T10:38:00.000-07:00

*Warning: This is not my usual update and if you choose to skip down to the "Thank you" portion, I will certainly understand and might even encourage it.

The Freak Out- It arrived. The email. It arrived. Registration Confirmation. It's here. It's a done deal. I'm officially registered with Nike and am expected to show up at the starting line bright and early on Oct. 19th. Why is this just hitting me now? I don't know. Who's brilliant idea was it to do this a 2nd time? Sure, I sent out the original invite to friends but they were supposed to tell me I'm crazy and that running a marathon together would be the dumbest way to spend a reunion weekend. They were supposed to politely say no and immediately request that I have my head examined. But noooooooooooooo [insert whiny teenage voice], they had to say yes right away and start training/fundraising and getting excited about the cause and health benefits and the challenge of it all. Great. Now, what? Sure, it'll be good for me. Sure, I still whole-heartedly support the cause and (unfortunately) continue to find reasons to support cancer research. And sure, doing something to benefit the world makes a reunion even more special. But...it's haaaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrd. [Again, insert whiny teenage voice.] I have 101 reasons why it's hard but I'll spare you for now. I've been mostly positive this season, even in the midst of the difficult weeks, believing that positive thinking can only have positive affects. Well, I'm freaking out now...releasing the pent up negative energy, hoping that getting this out of my system will somehow free me to accept the positive energy I've been practicing for months.

The Training- Now, that I've taken a few deep breaths, I'll tell you that I've completed 13 miles two weeks in a row. Back to back, half marathons...not bad. And I'll tell you that I walked them. Another confession. I'm not a runner. I want to be but I'm not at this kind of distance. So, I'll continue to try to increase my running during my short mid-week distances and hope that someday, I'll be able to incorporate the running into my long training sessions. I hope that doesn't disappoint anyone. I'm trying to be a proud walker and take solace in the fact that I walk almost as fast as some of the runners. So, I'm certainly not out for a Sunday stroll!

The Thank Yous- A few more deep breaths. With this season being more difficult, I can't tell you how encouraging it is to receive your donations and notes. Often times, that's the thing that gets me out of bed at 6:15 on Sunday mornings to meet my team and keeps me going when I think I can't give anymore. Sometimes, I think about specific donors and dedicate that mile to them or the person in their life who has battled cancer. If you have made a donation and would like to dedicate a specific mile to your loved one, let me know which mile you'd prefer and I'll gladly walk (or run, if I can) in their honor. This week, I send out a special thank you to Allyncia Williams, Pasha Hosseini, Megan Moelbert, and Jill & Dave Humes for your generous donations. With your help, we're at 46% of my goal!

*Disclaimer- I do believe in what we're doing and believe that all goals will be met. This is just an honest moment in one girl's journey to the finish line.

All In the Family

2008-08-17T17:58:00.000-07:00

I just got back from a family vacation to Bethany Beach, DE with my parents, Kent's family and Krissy's crew as well. We had a fantastic week doing the usual beach activities like playing in the sand, mini-golfing and eating. One of the best parts of my week was having everyone take part in my training. Shannon started it off by riding bike with me and measuring out my mileage. Krissy joined in by riding the bike next to me as I ran a 7-miler on Tuesday. I joined Kent and Jasmine for a cross-training bike ride on Wednesday. My mom had a water bottle ready for me at the end of my Thursday speed workout. My dad probably had the toughest job of the week, riding his bike next to me for an hour and a half on Saturday as I ran my long run! Finally, a huge thanks to Parker, Abby, Sarah, and Max - my nieces and nephews - who faithfully stretched with me everyday. This training is contagious and I am grateful for the support that the Heberlig crew gave to me the last week. Anyone else finding company?

Wow

2008-08-15T07:37:00.000-07:00

We're almost at $16,000. Can you believe it???? :)

Chocolate and Friends (not necessarily in that order :)

2008-08-14T12:19:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you guys are all in the same boat at this point - tired, frustrated, ready to stop running and fundraising all at the same time and wondering how in the world we're going to get all this $ raised in the next SIX weeks!!!! ... so in today's e-mail I found out what hotel I was going to be staying in (Radisson Hotel Fisherman's Wharf) and I thought, "why not, look it up...". I did and WHAT FUN! :) I am 6 blocks from GHIRARDELLI SQUARE and several blocks from the Cable Cars, etc. etc. I have no idea how close it is to everyone else - sure hope it's really close!! But, don't worry I'd walk a little further than the chocolate store - at least 7 blocks :) Point being - this is going to BE FUN!!! :) I've been so caught up in letters, fundraising, thank you notes, trying to get runs in with traveling, buying new shoes (yes, they help tremendously! Thank God!), etc. that I've lost the perspective of what the weekend will actually mean to each of us - I'm so excited to see all of you and to do this together :)

And then, of course, as God does oh so well, He gently reminds me that isn't that what life is all about too? We get caught up in the little things that completely drag us down so badly that we don't have the energy or the time to get excited about the JOY and the gifts that he so desperately wants to give us. So, friends, be encouraged. This is a weekend to celebrate - work hard, yes, and Lord knows we all are! - but anticipate friendship and life together :) Sending smiles and hugs (and a nice long warm bath :) to you all!

Run Like A Girl (See if you can keep up!)

2008-08-12T09:37:00.000-07:00

YOU CAN DO IT! This is the tough part of the season where the distances get more intense, the paperwork builds up, the fundraising seems to lull and the stress creeps in. That's perfectly normal, so KEEP GOING! YOU ARE DOING A GREAT JOB! I encourage you to stay as positive as possible because you will reach your goals. If you need some help in this area, this is what some of your supporters have to say to you:

"We are very proud of you and we support you 100%!"

"Thank you for running this-- I had a dear friend that I lost to this form of cancer."

"What a remarkable person you are to take on such an adventure. I'll be cheering for you all the way."

"We wish you nothing but the best! My aunt was just recently diagnosed with Lymphoma and this means a lot to me and my family."

"Run a good race, have fun, stay strong."

"Kick some tail!"

"What you are doing is quite remarkable."

"I know how hard a marathon can be and we are so excited that you are running for such a nobel purpose! Run fast. Run hard. Save lives."

"Man, what a stud you are!!"

"Thank you for doing such a great thing! It really does add up when many people contribute what they can."

"You're freakishly cool for doing this...and way less lazy than we are."

"Being a nurse on the Leukemia/Lymphoma unit, I know very well the impact the disease has on the lives of not just the patients, but the entire family. It's devastating, but with the help of others, I know that we can defeat this! God bless!"

"You go, girl!"

I hope that encourages you this week.

(P.S. The title of this post comes from a t-shirst slogan I read this weekend. Pretty great, huh?!)

13 Going On 3200

2008-08-11T21:11:00.000-07:00

Well, friends, I've made it to the half marathon mark! Right after completing 13 miles on Sunday, I walked/crawled farther than .1 miles to the bus so I think it counts! It was a toasty morning, allowing us to work on our tans at 8am, but we did it. I've reached the half way point in my training calendar and the half way point in my distance so the next hurdle is reaching the $1600 mark in my fundraising (currently at $1310) and I'll be half way in all areas. I'm soooo close!

Many people have stepped up and decided to partner with me in supporting the LLS and I can't thank you enough! I got a call this week from the mom of Audrey, one of my teams young honored teammates currently undergoing treatment for leukemia, saying thank you for what we're doing so I pass that along to all you. We're doing this together and real people are affected by your generosity in very real ways. This week, I'd like to thank Betty Weaver, Denise Bartos, Perry Covington, Patty Peperato, Rachel Dobbs, Renee Menkhaus, and Mac & Linda McCracken for your donations, encouraging words and support. I've been saying that the world is full of good and generous people and the donations and kind words that have come in from friends, family, colleagues, and especially strangers are my proof.

After work today, I turned in my paperwork to the office, signed my life away and told them no matter what I would finish 26.2 miles and raise at least $3200 in the next 6 weeks to further their mission! It's the real deal. One way or another those 2 things will happen...I wonder how? It'll be exciting to see it all unfold!

San Francisco Fun!

2008-08-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

We've had some intense or serious blog topics throughout this training process. Well, this is not one of them! We are 72 days away from spending a weekend in San Francisco! (We'll ignore the mileage we'll be doing during that time.) Since we're making hotel & flight preparations, I thought it might be fun to keep a list of some things we might want to see or do while in this beautiful city. Granted we don't have that much free time but if you come across something or if anyone reading this has been to SF and has recommendations, please leave a comment with your ideas. If there are lots of ideas, we can whittle down the list, later. For now, brainstorm away!

(Photo stolen from Jennifer Yates...hope you don't mind, Jen!)

One Half

2008-08-03T21:56:00.000-07:00

This week marks the half way point in our training! I actually feel encouraged by this because it feels like I might actually be ready in another 10 weeks. I think I was freaking out at this point last season so it's kinda nice to be more relaxed and even confident that I'll be able to go the distance. Yesterday, I hit 12 miles! I don't think we'll train past 20 miles so this is beyond the half way point for our training distance and it's pretty close to a half marathon distance. Phew, I'm going to make it a second time! :)

I received an email last week that included a link to the story of one little boy's determination to beat a diagnosis of ALL. I think sometimes I forget that people are being diagnosed every day and when I read that Nate and his family got the news this past May, I was jarred again into this difficult reality. He's expected to undergo treatment for 3 years and has many hurdles to face at such a young age so keep him in your thoughts and prayers. I encourage you to visit Nate's website and read his story/journal. It's a reminder of the bravery of little ones, the love of family and friends, and the importance of our involvement...now, not "someday."

SO MANY GENEROUS people decided to get involved this week by visiting my website and making donations to the LLS. It is with a grateful heart that I thank Jessica & Greg McCracken, Anonymous, Cheryl Bish, Jennifer & Andrea Kamell, Andrea Hamilton, Andi Smith, Michael Gilbert, Debby Schnitzer, Jennifer & Perry Covington, Ben Aken and Katie Hala. Wow, that's quite a list for one week! I want to mention that while I know most of these generous people, there are a few I've never met but who decided to support the cause after reading an email that was forwarded to them from one of my friends. I think we all realize that we're in this together...life, that is, and taking opportunities to make help others is what it's all about. The money doesn't go to me, it goes directly to the LLS to help patients like Nate. So thank you for donating, thank you for leaving encouraging notes, and thank you for telling others about this opportunity to get involved in finding a cure for cancer now, not "someday."

WHAT????

2008-08-03T17:44:00.000-07:00

OH MY GOODNESS!!!! We are more than half way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This week was awesome ladies.... $27,800 here we come!! You girls rock.

Two words

2008-07-29T18:51:00.000-07:00

Stress fracture. :(

The first week we were in Westfield, Michael and I ran together on M/W/F. That Thursday, I noticed my ankle hurt a little bit, but we ran 5 miles on Friday anyway (had to get it in, right?). My ankle started to swell and was very painful to walk on. I had a doctor look at it/order x-rays while we were still in NY, and they suggested I see a Sports Medicine doctor when I got home. I went today.

I was blessed to see Dr. A, the same doctor who treated and operated on Michael's knee. He's an excellent doctor with wonderful people skills. He was quickly able to assess and diagnose me. Amazing. It comes down to this, I have a stress fracture in a bone (I kinda lost what he said after 'stress fracture') on the inside of my leg above my ankle. I'm in an air cast for 3 weeks. No running, no biking, yes swimming (phew!).

My initial reaction was tears - I know you all can relate. It's going to be ok, though. It's not the end of the world, and like I've said before, I'd do this marathon even if I had to walk it. :) In addition to the air cast, I'm to add 1000 - 1200mg of calcium daily. As women over 30 (ahem), we all should be doing that anyway.

Please pray that I recover quickly and completely.

Finders, Keepers

2008-07-28T10:47:00.000-07:00

So, I was pretty proud of myself for finding forty-five cents in change over the past several weeks of running. But lately I've been learning that running really pays off! On Thursday's run, I found a $5 bill on the side of the road, and this morning, I found another one (in a different place)! I'm trying to figure out if there's some sort of magic formula to keep the money coming. After all, I still need to raise $1915.

New Friends, Old Friends

2008-07-27T20:53:00.000-07:00

Go, Heidi, Go!

Old (in the best way possible!) friend: BIG CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR DEAR HEIDI S. who ran the NYC Half Marathon today! You rock, girl!

New friend: I want to thank Anna, one of my Westside TNT teammates, who stayed with me this morning for the full 8.5 miles! It is such a help to have someone with you for the full distance. Someone to help pass the time but also to keep you motivated when you're getting tired and to return the favor when they need it. (Sounds like a metaphor for life, really.) I've been having some hip issues this week and I was scared about what might happen when I tried to complete this mileage but I made it thanks in large part to Anna's support. We anticipated doing 10 miles so we missed the mark there, accidentally stopping before we were supposed to, but I'll take considering this hips! Following the recommendation of my coach, I'm hoping to get a foam roller this week to help "massage" the muscles around the hips and continue with 2 mid-week runs, strength training, and all the stretching I can muster! In some ways, the training has been easier this season and in other ways, it's been more difficult. I'm glad I'm not doing this alone. Thanks, friends (all of you,) for your support. I need it.

Old friend: As many of you know first-hand, Facebook is a remarkable way to reconnect with people from your past. One of my recent reconnections was with my childhood friend, Marcy, who quickly and generously made a donation after we caught up with each other. She reminded me that she lost her cousin to leukemia in 1994. I'm pretty sure I remember meeting Derrick at her sister Wendy's wedding. He was sick at the time and if my memory serves me right (Marcy, correct me if I'm wrong), he was wearing a fantastic long, red and white striped hat, perhaps masking the effects of chemo. I didn't know then that 15 years later, I would be training for my 2nd event with TNT and raising money to find a cure for the cancer that Derrick bravely faced. Or that I would lose touch with this family and reconnect with them at this particular time. I'd like to thank Derrick's family for allowing me to add his name to our "Who We Run For" list, which can be found on the right side of this blog. Take a look at the many heros listed there and remember, that's what it's all about.

Friends and Family: Melissa Wallenbeck, Jamie Laboz, Marcy Newbern, and Erik Jones are the generous people that made donations this week! Thank you so much for your support and partnership! I know I've said this before but I can't express how much I need and appreciate your participation in this challenge. THANK YOU!

Kristin's July 26th Update--I Love Hills!

2008-07-26T11:39:00.000-07:00

Whew! The past 2 weeks have been intense!

Training: Well, the shin splints were nothing to joke about. I ended up at the Dr and then the physical therapist. "Matt" the PT guy is my new hero...as he should be! I've been to PT 3 times a week and I'm beginning to reap the rewards of going. I was told that this was not an "injury" that I should just "push through" and that if I did, I risked greater injury and even surgery. Now after a little rest and my trusty PT friend, the aches and pains are a result of putting in 15-16 miles a week rather than muscle separating from bone! AND, because I'm not hurting like I was, I'm seeing improvement in my time, in my distance, in my breathing, as well as how I feel on a daily basis. I'm really enjoying this!

Two weeks ago I walked (under Matt's firm direction!) on the Bethpage bike path. I really liked that path! Today we were, once again, at Sunken Meadow Park. I was part of the run/walk group of ladies that I'm beginning to call friends. We laugh, sweat, and train together. Granted, today we were the running/walking wounded (between us there was: ankle injury, knee injury, new runner, shin splints, and recent gall bladder surgery) but together we pushed through and put in 6+miles together. Our coach, Jules, commented to us that even with the list of "new runner issues" we all have going, he has seen such improvement in our form, time, stamina, and distance. He's teaching us how to run hills effectively--both up and down! He's trying to convince us that hills are our friends and we just need to continue pledging our undying affection to them. Yeah, not happening. However, we are trying to figure out how to get Jules to run with us everyday during the week. Everyone should have their own personal cheerleader.

I'm finding that my training during the week is interesting. I'm trying to get it in before the kids wake up. Much to Gideon's dismay, the alarm is going off at 5:45. That's my goal. Doesn't always happen. When I hit snooze, I find myself on a treadmill at 9pm. Ugh. That's no fun! But, I'm determined to get my training in for the day! And I am!

My Life Lesson This Week: I'll be honest. I didn't think that training for 2 half marathons (Hamptons on 9/27 and San Fransisco on 10/19) would be tough on the emotions. But it is. I knew it would be tough physically, but I never imagined the internal dialogues that would take place. I watch these other folks run...and I mean RUN. And I can't do that yet. I am pushing myself physically, but I'm not at their level yet. I'm a run/walker. I can run, but not at great lengths of time or distance. So I started "beating myself up" about that. Finally, my mom said to me, "Kristin, are you in this to be a runner or are you doing this for the entire experience: to learn to run, to stretch yourself physically, to raise money and awareness for the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society, to do something together with your girlfriends, to stay uninjured and enjoy the entire experience...or are you just looking to become a runner?" And that was the truth. (Thanks Mom!) I would love to run like these other people I train with...and maybe someday I can. But for now, I'm a run/walker. I'm enjoying the experience and all that it is stretching me to do. And I'm going to run/walk 13.1 miles. TWICE.

Connections

2008-07-24T15:25:00.000-07:00

As I worked on a few odds and ends in the camp office, Ray, the 15 year-old maintence helper, stopped to check in. It was raining, actually pouring outside, which interrupted his mowing assignment. We started talking about my marathon training and my great college friends who I will be running alongside. Then Ray asked, "Wait, where did you go to school?" "Houghton." "Houghton!?!" he asked. "Yea, did you ever hear of it?" (Did he ever hear of it? Wait until you read the next line.) "Yeah, my grandpa was the president there." PRESIDENT CHAMBERLAIN!!! Immediately, we had a new connection. At that point I no longer saw him as Ray, the ultimate maintenance helper. He had suddenly turned into My Royal Highness Ray, grandson of a Houghton College President. (That may be overdoing it.) We had a new bond. That small moment once again reminded me of what makes this adventure so great. It all started 15 years ago in East Hall on Houghton's campus. I constantly remember connecting with you in the dorm, sledding on South Hall hill, progressive dinner, CMT, sunning on the Quad, ultimate frisbee, ETC! The connection continues and has brought us much closer. I have loved this and a huge thank you to Amy for inviting us all to do it.

I have also enjoyed the connection that comes from other marathoners. I don't look like your typical marathoner so most people talk to me in the "if you make it" tense. I can't help it. I was born with Heber-LEGS, thanks to mom and dad. But these puppies have strength and endurance, two key factors to running a marathon. And I admit, it is hard for me to pick out another marathon runner. But once you make that connection, any past marathon runner puts their total faith in you and the conversation just rolls. I met a man the other day who ran his first marathon at the age of 40 and is now in his 60's. He has run 9 races and even qualified and ran in Boston. He was thrilled to talk to me about it and can't wait to hear how WE do. What about you? Are you making any connections?

wanna run together?

2008-07-23T10:49:00.000-07:00

Here's a crazy thought....

October 2-5th. Houghton's 125th anniversary Homecoming. Hmmm.....Houghton is hilly.....
Wanna run together before we run together? Wanna recruit some of our other girlies who are not going to San Fran with us to go for a loooonnnnnggg walk (oh, maybe 11 miles long)? Ginny, Heidi, and Kristen are already in the area. I'm only 6 hours. Katie? Jen will you be in Western NY at that time? We are all flying cross country 2 weeks later. Amy?? Any plans to visit family in the beginning of October?

Just a crazy idea. Maybe its too much. I don't know. See a parade, take in a soccer game, the ski slope is a mighty big hill to run up. The cross country trails are interesting.

I'm game if anyone else is.

1 Million Calories

2008-07-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

When you return from a long run, do you want to eat everything in sight?! You are not alone. There have been a few side comments about food and appetites so it seems appropriate to start a conversation here. What have you notice about your eating habits? For those of you following Weight Watchers, have you found it helpful? Are there certain things you're eating or not eating that fuel your workouts? How long before you run, do you eat and what do you eat? If your run is longer than an hour, what are you consuming besides water? Those are just some questions to get the thoughts going so feel free to offer whatever you think is food-related! If you'll excuse me, there's a lunch right here with my name on it. (Roasted veggies in a whole wheat wrap with some pesto and mozzerella, if you must know.)

Wait For Me...

2008-07-22T12:53:00.000-07:00

I seem to be having one of those weeks (or 2) when you feel like life is zooming past and you’re doing all you can to keep things in sight so you don’t lose it completely! Actually, that’s what I do most Sunday mornings at my team run. My goal is always to keep Jen and Elizabeth in sight because losing them means I’m may never catch up and that won’t do! So, it’s Tuesday and I’m making time to leave my weekly update.

I have to say that I think the daily stretching is helping me significantly. Both of my midweek runs, 3 miles each, felt great! My ability to run has improved and even the walk pace seemed to increase. As I ran on Friday, I began to contemplate my approach to these shorter distances and realized I do the opposite to most runners because I don’t consider myself one of them. I tend to think about these as walks with run breaks but what would happen if I changed my mentality and thought about them as runs with walk breaks. Well, it turns out I run more than half the distance. Maybe this was a fluke but I’m hoping this is a new trend in my running life!

My “long run” on Sunday wasn’t exactly long. I was at my parents’ place for the weekend and instead of running outside I found myself in the workout room in their building. When I first got there, the treadmill was occupied so I resigned myself to completing 2 hours on the elliptical machine. After 30 minutes, I was done and the treadmill became free so I hopped on and only lasted 30 minutes before I gave up. First of all, there should be a law regulating the temperature of these rooms and it ought to be below 75 degrees! I was the sweatiest I have EVER been after this workout. Secondly, I think I’ve lost my ability to enjoy the treadmill. Maybe it was just the heat but I was dying and bored to tears. So, I guess that was my down week and I’ll be back up and hopefully, completing 10 miles on my next long run. (WOO HOO, double digits!)

Thank you, Rania Dallal and Melissa Wallenbeck, for your donations this week! I’ve been baking and selling cookies at work but at $2 a pop, it’s going to take me a while to reach my goal. So, I REALLY appreciate your generous support, ladies! I also wanted to publicly thank the people that made early donations and whose names didn’t make it to this particular forum. My very first donation came from an anonymous donor so I don’t know who this special person is but thank you! Donations from Kelly Jackson, Tyler & Kendall Krohn, and Nadeem & Bethany Dallal followed. I want to make sure you all know how much I appreciate your support. It does take a village!

Solo

2008-07-20T17:44:00.000-07:00

Last night I carefully put together my running route for my solo 14 mile run on mapmyrun.com. I've become quite obsessive about this marathon business. I'm finding the knowledge that I have to drag my body 26.2 miles in mid-October is scaring me more than enough to be more than religious about training. I must spend hours a week reading marathon and running websites, with everything from nutrition to how to tie my shoelaces, and pouring over my training plan and routes. And I'm becoming intimate with Four Months to a Four Hour Marathon. Thanks for the tip, Di.

So last night as I plotted my route and resisted the temptation to avoid hills (this is San Francisco we're training for here!), I came to the sinking realization that I was going to have to do my 14 miler alone. Completely solo. No water help. No fellow runners. No cycling husbands. Solo. (I was running from 6:30-8:45 and Aaron would have to be home with sleeping boys and my parents would surely still be in bed.) So needless to say, I went to bed a bit grumpy. I hate waking up before the sun EVER and my 12 miler last week was killer the last 2 miles.

This morning, I woke up as usual, flaling for a screaming alarm clock, successfully pummelling the snooze button before my light sleepers woke up for good, much earlier than is recommended for a grumpies-free day. I went through my pre-run readiness ritual and was in the car by 6:00. (I had also discovered last night that I would have to drive my route ahead of time, stashing water bottles at 3 mile intervals since I was going to be SOLO.)

All went well. I drove the route and surreptitiously tucked the water bottles into the four corners of Kettering, Ohio. I made it home by 6:40, feeling sleepier by the minute. I proceeded to stretch well, and clip my ipod into place. I started down the drive as I reached to turn my ipod on. Nothing. Tried again. Still nothing. Ugh. I must have erased my ipod when I thought I was just charging it last night. Terrible. Horrible. No good. I stood on the driveway contemplating and counting my options so long that two bunnies hopped within a few feet of me.

In the end, I went back to bed. There's no way I could do 14 miles SOLO without someone to talk to, give me water, OR sing to me. No way. I'll switch my Wednesday off day with today and run tomorrow. I suppose this is why we run with a team, eh?

Drum Roll, Please...

2008-07-18T16:10:00.000-07:00

Over $10,000! The LLS is a worthy cause and many people will be helped as a result of your generosity. Thank you! We're not there yet but this is a great day, indeed. Keep giving and ladies, keep up the good work!

Benched

2008-07-17T14:56:00.000-07:00

Yup...benched. So the shin-splints are, in part, due to being a new runner, BUT they are also due to my horribly flat feet. The podiatrist is making me orthodics and he sent me for PT. I went tonight and the nice physical therapist was trying to convince me to rest for a few weeks. Yeah, ok, since that ISN'T going to happen, I'm told to ice up a whole lot, bond with the ibuprofen, come to physical therapy, stretch better, and cut down my mileage for a bit...oh yeah, and stay off of the hills. DOES HE KNOW WHAT SAN FRANCISCO LOOKS LIKE????????When I go back tomorrow, hopefully without children, I will be able to form a complete thought and see how long I need to "take it easy." Long run on Saturday is supposed to be 6-7 miles. He did say that if I go, take it easy (again, that rather obscure phrase), and certainly do not do even 4 miles. (I guess that's what he means by "easy")

Ugh. I don't want to lose my momentum. I have the motivation and I don't want to lose it. Pray this heals up quickly girls. I'll keep you posted....

Come Out, Come Out, Wherever You Are

2008-07-15T10:32:00.001-07:00

So, I've been thinking...who reads this blog? Is it just the 7 of us training or do some of our friends, family members, supporters, or even strangers who accidentally happened upon our little journal stop by to check in our progress, stories, and growing pains. There's a little map on the bottom right side of this blog that tracks the locations of our visitors and it would suggest that others do find their way here. Well, I'm asking you to say hi! We would love to know who you are and how you found us, if you're comfortable with that. Whad'ya say? Anyone brave enough to say hello?

I also thought I'd take a moment to thank you. Whether you post a comment or not, I know many of you are encouraging us offline, too, and that support is vital to our training. We could not do this without YOU! You've also helped us by generously donating $9,442 to the LLS so far! That is more than 1/3 of our goal! Again, we could not do this without you. Marathon training is a long process and we thank you for sticking with us, listening to us, encouraging us, and supporting us. We are forever grateful.

Rejuvenated...Again

2008-07-13T19:15:00.000-07:00

This week was CRAZY for me and my schedule alone made finding time for workouts difficult but I'd also been experiencing some lower back pain. Last week, I went to Top To Top to buy new shoes, knowing I was overdue, and settled on these Asics. Unfortunately, they were out of my size so an order was placed and I would have to wait for their arrival. I finally picked them up on Friday, along with a RunLite 4 Hydration Belt that is soooooo much better than the last one I bought, and I also had a good conversation with an employee who's also a marathon coach. He was really encouraging and re-emphasized the importance of stretching, saying that he stretches twice a day when training. I've been stretching but not everyday and certainly not twice a day but I'm going to try a short stretch in the morning and a longer session (30 minutes max.) in the evening. He seems to think this will make a big difference in my ability to run, we'll see if he's right.

This morning was the first day with my new shoes (which I've named Thelma & Louise) and I'm happy to report that I didn't have any lower back pain! I do have an impressive blister but that will eventually take care of itself as my feet get used to their new digs. So far, Thelma & Louise have 8 miles behind them. I'm excited about moving forward in my training and hopeful that utilizing these new tools will help me progress. So, once again, I feel like I have a new life! Whew.

Thank you to my friend, Joel Limpic, and Mr./Ms. Anonymous for your donations this week! You are also two huge reasons for my latest rejuvenation! I can't express how encouraging your contributions and comments are to me. I thought I'd share these two pictures so that you can see who your money is helping. Tyler is a six year old honored teammate from a neighboring team who recently had his wish granted by Make A Wish. His wish was to be head zookeeper at the Washington DC Zoo and to take a tour of the White House. Tyler, another true hero!

212 Degrees

2008-07-13T10:14:00.001-07:00

After my team run yesterday I was having a Highlander flashback. I guess I keep referring to that "physical challenge" because aside from giving birth, it is the only other really demanding, athletic thing I've ever done. During the run my time was slow, I was frustrated, I was in pain, and I was aggrevated with myself. I want to be better at this. I want the pain in my shins to go away. I want to be able to jog/run like all these others I see (yes, I know, they've been at this a lot longer). But that is my goal. Like rock-climbing on Highlander, in the moment I am tired, I'm sweaty, I hurt, and I don't think I could give any more. But afterwards, even now, I hear my Highlander leaders saying, "Did you give 100%?" And like the summer of 1993, I'm disappointed because after some rest and reflection I think, "I could have given more."

After the run I came home and checked my email. The Long Island TNT fall season is referring to themselves as TNT 212. It all came from a post by a mentor. Please read below:

As you know, at 211 degrees, Water is HOT. At 212 degrees, water BOILS. With boiling water comes STEAM. And steam can POWER a locomotive!! Why do I tell you this? To quote a book I recently read (surprisingly called “212° - The Extra Degree”) the author stated that by raising the temperature of water ONE EXTRA degree means the difference between something that is simply very hot and something that generates enough force to power a machine. I would hope that you take this message and remind yourself (as you run – or function throughout your normal day) that seemingly small things can make a tremendous difference. Tomorrow when you are out running or walking with the team or by yourself just think of how much more you will be able to accomplish by applying just one extra degree of effort! Just think how your training run is helping thousands of victims of blood cancers.

So ladies, I'm challenged to raise my effort by 1 more degree. Daily. Until I reach the goal....a half marathon....in 98 days.

Dog Tired

2008-07-10T19:44:00.000-07:00

I'm here, I'm here! I check back on you girls all the time, but I suppose I'm due for a post. So I'll share a running story.

So ... this morning as I was panting (I'd rather say coasting) through mile 3 of 4, I encountered a sight I've seen regularly now on my short running route. If you haven't heard, our family is living in the guest house of a dear friend from high school ever since we fled my sister's when chicken pox struck. This neighborhood is on the upper end of the affluent spectrum, and so I do my runs through beautifully manicured lawns and gardens and stunning homes straight out of a magazine. I often share the road with fellow excercise enthusiasts -- wait -- they're the enthusiasts, I'm the mishap. Anyway, as you could guess from the income level of the homes in my temporary neighborhood, the demographics are pretty much retirees or middle-agers with rarely a child under high school age around. And most of the exercisers are women as I do my runs usually around 7:30.

So the first morning I saw a baby stroller approaching me on the road, I gave a double look, because young marrieds are not typically in this neighborhood. As I jogged closer, I thought, "oh! I was right. This is more like a grandma. She must be taking the grandbaby out for a stroll." I panted along listening to my Bon Jovi and geared up to smile and squeeze out a "Good morning" between breaths as we passed. I got the words out and looked down to smile at the baby. Girls. I kid you not. It was a dog in the stroller. A mini schnauzer. Toto. Geesh. That is a whole new take on "walking the dog". And I've seen this nice little pair quite regularly now.

Any other dog stories? Other stories?

100 Days!

2008-07-10T16:21:00.000-07:00

Has anyone else noticed the crazy little countdown that Amy decided to torture us with? :) It shows that we are at the 100 day mark. Tomorrow, we'll be in double digits. So of course, I've been thinking, 100 days to raise the remaining $2400, 100 days to prepare to run 13 miles, etc. Motivating? Panic-inducing? A little of each, I think. But also exciting!

The Mental Game

2008-07-07T09:08:00.001-07:00

I think it's safe to say we all realize that running long distances is as much mental as it is physical. I've been having trouble when running anything over 3 miles in my neighborhood. I'm sure it's because I pass my house at the end of each mile. ;-) I then have to continue running . . . . uphill. Uggh.

This week at my GTS, it was really good to hear that there are others, veteran runners even, who struggle with the same thing. One woman was talking about how she hates if the marathon route happens to pass by the hotel where she's staying. It's hard for her not to think - shower, a/c, bed. LOL She has competed in countless races and over 30 triathalons. I guess it was encouraging for me to hear that what I'm feeling is normal.

Something else I've done recently is to reset my trip odometer and watch it for the distance of a long run I've had recently. I was coming back from GTS on Sat, and I reset my odometer at a Publix on my way home. It did not even reach the 4.5 miles I ran that day by the time I got home!! I realized that I'm running looooong distances and should be proud of my accomplishments.

Ladies, you are all doing something that's really hard!! Keep up the excellent work!

Happy 4th of July!

2008-07-04T10:42:00.000-07:00

In honor of this holiday, my mom and I got up bright and early to participate in the annual 4th of July Village Runner 5K in Redondo Beach. We started and finished together and my mom did a great job! Have a great and safe holiday, everyone!

**Edit: Just adding my weekly update here instead of starting a new post.

7/6/08- Week 7

Training Stats: Tu- 2 miles, W-strength training, Fri- 5k (3.1 miles), Sun- 6 miles. My mom and I got up bright and early on the 4th to participate in a 5k at Redondo Beach. It was a very family -oriented event so kids and dogs were everywhere but thankfully, I didn't trip over anyone, although, there were a few close calls! :) My mom did a great job and we had a good time. This morning was a comedy of errors for me but I eventually made it to practice, although, a bit late and the team had already left for the run. I headed out on my own hoping to catch up and I did which was encouraging. I'm not sure how far we were really supposed to go today but I did about 6 miles which means I've completed the same distance 3 weeks in a row! That will change next week. My goal for this week is to increase all my mid-week distances to at least 3 miles.

Fundraising Stats: No change this week. I start to get nervous when this happens and begin to wonder if I've taken on a challenge that's just too big. But I quickly remember the people who will benefit from this money and I know the donations will come in. So, thank you in advance for the contributions that will be made in the weeks to come, you are part of an important mission...to save lives.

Mission: Last week, someone spoke to us about the First Connection (Peer-to-Peer) Program that the LLS offers to newly diagnosed patients and their families. This program matches up the patient with a volunteer who has been through what they are experiencing and offers support and helps them get connected with the LLS and other community resources. They are matched up according to age, diagnosis and gender when possible. This program is free to the patients and caregivers so this is one way the LLS is using your donations.

Amy- Week 6

2008-06-29T12:10:00.000-07:00

Training Stats: Tu- 2 miles, W- strength training, Th- 2 miles, Sun-6 miles. Thankfully, Mother Nature was kind and gave us slightly cooler temperatures than last Sunday and the two people that help keep me moving returned after being sick/injured last weekend. I felt tired but kept going and practiced building the mental strength I find helpful as the miles increase. This week I'm planning to increase my mileage on my midweek runs and make sure to get a second day of strength training in.

Fundraising Stats: $540 of $3200. This week I want to thank two dear friends for their donations and support. Amy Parker & Kara Fink, I'm grateful for you both.

Flashbacks

2008-06-28T08:06:00.000-07:00

For those of us who did Highlander--way-back-when in my previous, skinny life--do you remember the hike where we had to climb "cardiac hill" with a big pack on our backs? Yeah, well, it's sister hill is here on LI. No joke. Maybe I didn't have a pack, but I guess the pounds I've gained in these past 16 years counts. And, just like the summer of 97, I survived. Go me! :)

I've also discovered that I need a headband or something. I really don't like sweat dripping in my eyes. It kind of impairs the vision on those rugged terrains.

So, the calves have stopped jiggling. The thighs are slowing down. Hey...progress!

Fundraising Brilliance

2008-06-26T09:53:00.000-07:00

Collectively, we've raised $4,195 so far which is fantastic! Great job, everyone. Besides your letters and emails, what have you been doing to get the word out and raise this money? I feel like I could benefit from your creativity. (Katie, have you raised over $800 baking pies?!)

P.S. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JEN! Party like the rock star that you are, girl!

On the road again

2008-06-23T17:54:00.001-07:00

That title is for you, Katie. Do you like Kenny Rogers? ;-)

I was able to get back on track this week (ha ha, get it? back on track?). Here's how my week shaped up. I ran 1 mile on Sun, had strength training Mon, rested Tues, ran 2 miles W, had strength training on Th, rested on Fri, and ran 4+ miles on Sat.

I was worried about my long run on Sat, mostly because my knee had been feeling so much better. I didn't want to mess it up by doing too much. Ironically, we met at a track that morning. I ran 4+ miles on that spongy material with no pain!! I thought maybe it would hit me later, but it never did!! PTL! I'm honestly so encouraged and relieved.

Here's my plan for this week. Sun I rested, Mon strength training, Tues 2 miles, Wed 3 miles, Thurs strength training, Fri rest, Sat 4 miles. It's going to be a tough Sat run because this is a week Michael has school, so I'll have to run it on my own. Not my favorite thing. I'm really struggling with trying to do 'enough' without overdoing it.

Excellent job on the fundraising, ladies. As a whole, we've passed the 10% mark!!

Nutrition and Hydration Notes

2008-06-23T08:23:00.001-07:00

After our long run on Saturday we had a nutrition clinic with a Dr. who is a psycho athlete. Someone from the team took notes and posted them. I thought I'd share them with you (beware, it's long)... and it's true. On my long runs I didn't drink enough and both afternoons I got killer headaches. I'll be trying something different this weekend!

Nutrition Clinic Notes

Target Sports Diet:
60-70%Carbs
20-25% Fat
10-15%Protein

Calories needed for race or training:
100/mile run
400/mile swim
25/mile bike

Your body stores up to 2000 cals to use when needed, so that’s why at mile 20 people who don’t take in at least those extra 600 cals will BONK (“hit the wall”)

Carbohydrates needed for race or training:
Simple sugars (glucose, sucrose > fructose… not complex carbs, so go ahead and have those jelly beans!)
Avoid high glycemic foods pre-exercise but use during exercise. (save the jelly beans for during the race, not before – due to insulin overshoot = hypoglycemia) . Checkout online foods with high GI (glycemic index)
Examples:Gels, jelly beans, sport beans, fig newtons.
TRAIN WITH FOOD to RACE WITH FOOD!

Protein needed:
Not as much as you think, it’s a poor fuel for exercise. Atkins tricks your body to breaking down muscle and body organs for fuel and could be dangerous. Eat lots of carbs!!

HYDRATION:
Sweat loss= evaporative cooling, which makes up 70% of body’s cooling
(conduction, convection and radiation is ~30%)
So you need to hydrate to make up for your sweat loss.
Dehydration -->overheating, decreased performance

How much to drink?
Determine your own personal sweat loss rate on a given day (temp and humidity)-
To do this, strip down and weigh yourself before a long run or ride (one hour). Then weigh yourself after your run (before going to the bathroom!). Each pound change is a pint of fluid you need to take in per hour. If you drank something, include that amount as well.1 pint=16 ozs.
So for example, on a hot and humid day, you ran for an hour and lost a pound, but you drank 8 ozs of fluid, you will need 16 + 8 = 24 ozs per hour in those conditions to run at an optimal performance. Sure, maybe you felt ok, but you could have performed better with proper hydration and on race day, those ounces add up!

Once you have your sweat loss rate, plan your drinking. If you know you need
24 ozs per hour, drink 6 ozs every 15 minutes of exercise. Practice this before race day as well.
This helps you drink before you are thirsty, which is the best way to stay hydrated, once you are thirsty, your body is already dehydrated!

Where does fluid get absorbed?
NOT in the stomach but the small intestines. So how to we get it from sloshing around in our stomach to getting absorbed in our intestines??
- drink a gulp at once, don’t sip- the bigger load will cue your stomach to empty quicker
- drink COLD fluids
- Too many cals at once decreases emptying\
- Too high osmolality decreases emptying / so remember to take ample fluids with your gel or if you choose to take electrolyte pills (endurolytes, you will need about 16 ozs water/pill)
- Dehydration leads to decreased emptying and promotes the cycle

What to drink?
-tastes GOOD (or else you will never drink enough and it won’t do you any good)
-absorbed quickly
-supplies energy, ~8% carbs in the drink (this doesn’t mean “energy drinks” which usually have caffeine and won’t help you too much on race day, on the other hand if you always have your coffee at the start of the day and you need your coffee go for it, but it will help you best if you wean yourself off the week before the race, um and I don’t mean to drink it during the race, then we get a Seinfeld episode, lol)
-maintains fluid/electrolyte balance
-you can stick with just water if the run is less than an hour and its relatively cool,not humid BUT don’t drink just water on long runs! Water à increased urine and decreased sodium, also decreased thirst mechanism to tell you you need electrolytes and you are still dehydrated! You need your electrolytes and carbs!
-also too much water intake + sweat (ie electrolyte loss) can lead to hyponatremia( decreased sodium levels), which diminishes your performance and be very dangerous (a girl died during Boston once from that)
-use water to rinse off the skin salt and allows for better body cooling.
-practice drinking the electrolyte drink they use on race day

Fluid Goals:
Pre-Exercise 8-24 oz ~ 60 mins before
4-10oz ~ 5-10 mins before
During Exercise 4-12 oz/10-15 mins (depending on your sweat loss rate, weather)
Post-Exercise16 oz/lb lost (or until you have clear urine, which is hard to tell in aport-a-potty, lol)

Rapid Recovery:
Keep moving
Stretch after exercise
Fuel up fast
Fluid with electrolytes
Rest days are as important as training days!Happy Running!

Amy- Week 5

2008-06-22T12:30:00.000-07:00

Training Stats: Tuesday- 2 miles, Wednesday- strength training, Thursday- 2 miles, Friday- 2 miles, Sunday- 6.5 miles. My goal for the week was to add a 4th walk/run into my routine and I did! Granted it was a rough one but late Friday night, I headed out to complete 2 miles in the quietness of my neighborhood. This morning I met my team at 8am but we didn't get started until 8:30 and by then it was quite toasty! I'm hoping they will change the start time to 7am soon. Anyway, the walking team was scheduled to walk for 1 hr 15 min and the run teams were scheduled to run 6 miles. At 38 min, the point at which I should have turned around, I realized I was SO close to the point that the 6 miles runners were to turn around that I decided to keep going. Did I mention it was really hot?! Well, the way back was difficult but I made it with a finish time of 1 hr 40 min. Even given the heat, I found myself disappointed in my time until I discovered that it was actually a 6.5 mile course! Coaches...liars! ;)

Fundraising Stats: $425 of $3200. That means $100 came in this week and I would like to thank Kristin & Garrison Roberts, Melissa Merlin, Andrea Baly, and Mr. & Mrs. Manuel for making that happen! I get so excited to see these donations arrive because they often come from unexpected places or at unexpected times and it's so encouraging to see the generosity of the world displayed before my eyes. Pure joy.

Story: After each team training session, I walk about 5 blocks to Jamba Juice where I purchase a smoothie, then walk 1 block to the bus stop where I sit and wait while sipping on breakfast, part 2. (Part 1 usually consists of a Clif Bar consumed before the run.) I never know what kind of characters I'll run into at this particular bus stop but it's often entertaining. This morning was no different. Initially, I found it strangely quiet as I found myself sitting alone and then it happened. My ears were suddenly overwhelmed by the sound of a warbling woman's voice to the tune of "Memory" from Cats. She sat down on the bench directly in front of me with her lyric sheet in hand and proceeded with her practice. She made no attempt to be discreet, rather as she learned the words and tried to sing it for memory (no pun intended), her performances became louder and more emotive each time. It was hilarious! I was feeling a bit sore and tired so the muffled laughter was a welcomed addition to my bus stop wait.

Mission: One of my teammates, Amy, told us about her 6 year old cousin, Ashley. Just over a year ago, she was diagnosed with leukemia and as the treatment took it's toll on Ashley's body, it took away the "smile in her eyes." Today, she is in remission and while she's on a number of medications still, Amy was relieved to share with us that Ashley's eyes smile again! On a more sobering note, another Ashley could use your good thoughts and prayers. She's the honored teammate of my friend, Kim, and she's been in remission from Hodgkins Lymphoma but has recently begun to experience the same side effects that she felt when she was diagnosed in 2006. Right now, she's going through a battery of tests to see if the cancer has returned. Please, remember both of these young girls who continue to demonstrate strength beyond their years.

Shout Out: This week, my sister-in-law registered for Nike and set up her website! Go, Andrea! You can do it, girl!

Team Run #2

2008-06-21T07:29:00.000-07:00

I am so excited!!!!!

~met up with a woman who I met at kick-off. She and her husband are both Christians!

~one of the trainers/coaches/whatever he is is also a Christian and has verses on his singlet!

~met up with 3 other women who will be in my training group, also going to Nike, also new runners, and we ran/walked/laughed together this morning. It was so good!

~one of those girls, another mentor, and I all belong to the same gym so we plan on meeting and bonding with a treadmill/crosstrain/strength train together! That makes it so much more do-able than trying to get the motivation to do it alone

~another mentor lives around the block! Works in a school, has 2 kids, yadda yadda yadda, so we may meet some mornings at o-dark-thirty to run/walk.

~OH! The run this morning was supposed to be 40 minutes. The walkers turned around at 20 and went back to the starting point. My group of newbies kept going...it took us a little over an hour but we did the entire loop (we were at a state park) and we did 4.2 miles!!! It was the farthest for any of us! We were so excited that we finished and we all said that we felt great at the end. My shins are a little sore right now but I can deal.

Ok girlies...how did your first or second team run go??? Heidi? Katie?

One of those years, maybe lives

2008-06-18T13:14:00.000-07:00

So, about a month ago I wrote about having a crazy week(s) and didn't know how I was going to get it all in. I've come to the amazing conclusion that it's just my life - forget days, weeks, months - it's a crazy LIFE! Somehow travel to the ADKS for family graduation, Shoshi flying in for 2 days for her grandfather's funeral, (finally got to meet my 1 1/2 year old niece!!), annual recertification for foster parenting, fundraising for TNT, VBS planning and teaching, last week of school for all (teacher presents, parties, volunteering, etc.), joining weight watchers (and writing down every crumb that goes in my mouth) and normal everyday things like laundry (10 loads is normal each week, right, when your child pees in the bed :) and "what's for dinner, tonight, hon?" (my answer back, "nothing! I've already eaten all of my points for the day!") :) ---- ahhhhh! Kristin, you and I need to write some kind of book together about Mommyhood and sanity (or a lackthereof).

I'm awfully glad I've got friends like you. There's no way in tarnation that I would ever be able to think I can do something like this on my own. And yes, I promised myself that I wouldn't write anything on here until I got my first batch of letters sent out - so YES, I finally sent out e-mails last night :) Praise God!! :) Thanks, Kathryn, for your help - never would have gotten it out without you!

I am REALLY excited about being together in October and about what I'm learning through all this (especially about LLS - it's a great organization!). Thanks for your friendship, guys :) We're doing our first group run this weekend - 3 miles. :)

HAHAHAHA

2008-06-17T20:10:00.000-07:00

Kvas, Aaron and I just spent, oh about a good few minutes puzzling over your picture on your fundraising site. I really didn't look like you and we just saw you a year ago, but perms and new glasses can go a long way, I guess, and this marathon training business is gonna make big changes in us all. Then I read your letter. hahahahahahaha!!!!

Another Distracting Tip...

2008-06-17T17:14:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, Ginny shared how her recent ipod purchase was getting her through her runs. I too have an new companion helping me hit the pavement - my dog! Shannon and I brought Phoebe, the Camp's border collie, to live with us over a month ago. You see, her inner nature couldn't be changed since she is a herding dog. At camp, she enjoyed herding the children which is not an approved camp activity. We offered to take her in and she has become a great training partner for me. I truly think my neighbors love to see her running more than me. Think about it though. She stops to mark her territory, quick break for me. She stops to chase a rabbit, quick break for me. She stops to sniff the male boxer down the road, quick break for me. If you catch my pattern, it is a GOOD cover up for a break. Anyway, before you go out and purchase a dog let me say this. First, make sure your husband is ok with it. Next, I run where there are fields so bathroom breaks are not an issue. People don't mind her fertilizing their ground. Finally, don't buy a chihauhau or weiner dog. They can never put the miles in that our good looking thighs will!

I'm putting out an APB....

2008-06-17T07:05:00.001-07:00

ALL POINTS BULLETIN......

Calling Mrs. Okrin....
Are you there Mrs. Okrin?????????????

Thinking of you my friend.

Calling Jen and Katie, the crazy runners...I'm sure you can jog up the East Coast to check on Kristen's well-being if needed? :)

On a serious note, Kristen....where've ya been? I miss reading your words of encouragement and insight. You can do this. Remember your song? I can do all things. I can do all things.
Keep running my dear!

Morning Person?

2008-06-16T16:46:00.000-07:00

Anyone who roomed with me in college will be surprised to learn that I officially became a morning person today. That's right, I set my alarm for 5:20 am and was out the door for a two mile run at 5:28. And the scary thing is, I enjoyed it! OK, it was still running, but it was so quiet and peaceful! It was also about 62 degrees, which I have decided is the perfect temperature for running. And it was light out but the sun wasn't beating down . . . amazing. The rest of the day, I have felt so accomplished.

So, we'll see if I can keep up the morning runs. I was getting tired of waiting until 7 or 8 pm when I'm dead tired, and I realized that I already get up at 5:45 am for work, so it's not like I'm sleeping in anyway.

On a different note, I really love visiting everyone's websites and seeing your updates and donations. If anyone has a great fundraising tip that has worked, please let us know! Amy, I have a question about fundraising in the neighborhood where you train (I read the tip in the sidebar . . .)--have you done that or know someone who has? Letters in mailboxes, or door-to-door, or what? I realized this morning that I'm probably going to become a familiar sight to a lot of the neighbors over the next few months, so maybe they would be willing to donate.

Amy- Week 4

2008-06-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

Training Stats: Tuesday- 2.5 miles, Wednesday- strength training & stretching, Thursday- 2 miles, Sunday- 4 miles. That was my training schedule for this past week and I have to say, it is exciting to feel myself getting stronger and looking forward more and more to running/walking everyday. My pace is improving and I was thrilled to have 13 minute miles on my hilly Thursday run/walk! This is slow to lots of people but it's great for me. I definitely notice that I'm getting into shape faster this time around, perhaps it's some kind of muscle memory. I don't know but I'm eager to see where this all leads.

Fundraising Stats: I've reached $325 so far and I'd like to that Mr./Ms. Anonymous for the donation they made this morning! It's such an encouragement to get the donation notices right before I head out for a run/walk so thank you! Collectively, my friends and I have reached our first $1000 mark! Thanks to everyone who has made a contribution and supported us in this generous way.

Story: I think I've mentioned 2 fast walkers on my team. Well, their names are Jen and Elizabeth. The walkers left first this morning and the 3 of us managed to stay ahead of the runners until mile 2. We were quite proud of this accomplishment. Every week, Jen mentions that she's starting a grassroots movement to gain respect for walkers. She has completed at least 3 marathons and that girl can walk fast! She's had people ask if she's running a marathon and when she corrects them and says that she's walking, she watches their face drop and listens to them say, "oh, you're walking," as though that's somehow less worthy. She wants to respond with, "yeah, let's go for a 26.2 mile walk and see how well you do!" Of course, she doesn't but she mentions her grassroots movement every chance she gets. So, to any other walkers out there, you are respected and keep up the good work!

Mission- Happy Father's Day! I'm reminded of all the dads out there who are spending this holiday in hospitals caring for their children who have been diagnosed with cancer and all the children who are caring for their sick dads or who are mourning the loss of their loved ones. Then, of course, there are all those celebrating the beautiful second chance at life, grateful to see their children grow up. To all of you, I wish peace and love this Father's Day.

**Edit: Givin' a shout out to my friend, Jen Yates, who has just signed up for Nike as a mentor for the Mid-America (KC) chapter! Jen was my training partner last year and neither one of us thought we would ever do this again and here she is, a mentor! Way to go, Jen! I miss you at every team run and can't wait to see you in SF!

First Team Run

2008-06-14T06:32:00.000-07:00

So 7:15 this morning, while my house was still asleep, I was at my first team run! Today was a timed run, not distance because it was the first gathering. The course was 3 miles and at the 15 minute mark, wherever you were, turn around and go back. I think I completed about 2 miles at a run/walk. Not bad... I must have been anxious about it because my eyeballs opened at 5am. Argh!!!

Following the run was a sneaker clinic at a running store. I couldn't stay because children were home waiting, but I did mention to the coach that I get shin splints. "Have them fit you for sneakers." "I already did that b/c this is the store that I got my shoes at." "Maybe you've clocked too many miles on them." "How long do they last?" "Oh, about 500 miles." WHAT?????? No, somehow I don't think the mileage is the issue! :)

Oh yeah....I was excited when I realized that this week I was right on schedule with my time. At first I thought I was behind because my sad butt didn't get out of bed for 2 days. But, I then realized that I had put in my time at the beginning of the week! Ok. I did this for the week. Baby steps, baby steps....

For the month of June my team is on timed run/walks not distance. We change over to distance the week of July 7th. What do your training schedules look like?

Wow!

2008-06-12T18:38:00.000-07:00

I had to turn in my fundraising letters last Saturday to qualify for the free postage. Apparently they've started arriving, as I've had two large donations today!! I'm shocked, amazed, and encouraged.

When do y'all have to turn in your letters?

I'm official

2008-06-12T08:01:00.000-07:00

I'm official. I signed on the dotted line last night! Did anyone else feel like they were committing to something incredibly bigger than 13.1 miles? I'll admit it. I cried.

I found out that one of our last big training runs is the Hamptons Half Marathon here on LI. Hmmm, a run through the Hamptons (summer home of the rich and famous) in September (3 weeks before San Francisco) ought to be a nice afternoon out! :)

Kristen, I'm singing... verse after verse, song after song...with each step of the running shoes.

Thanks for the encouragement girls!

Sidelined

2008-06-11T17:16:00.000-07:00

I've been having knee pain for a little over two weeks now. It's the worst right after I run and stays at that level for about 36 hours. Then it decreases to a low ache and stays there.

Today I went to my first PT appt. Ladies, these people are amazing!! I was diagnosed, stretched and exercised!! I have a list of stretches exercises to complete twice a day.

The bad (for me) part is that I'm not supposed to run until Mon - and only 1 mile that day. :( I can't believe I'm sad about that. lol I think I've just worked so hard that I don't want to lose what I've achieved. Also, dare I say I'm actually starting to enjoy running???? ;-)

I go back for my next PT appt on Monday.

Soooo, I'm watching from the sidelines this week, ladies. I guess I'll be the cheerleader - so get out there and accumulate some mileage!!

Discouraged...

2008-06-08T14:09:00.000-07:00

Girls, I will confess. I'll be really honest. I'm discouraged and scared. Why? Discouraged because I haven't been able to train like I want to (work, kids, house, sports...basically life). In my head I know that the team training here on LI hasn't even started yet, so I have time. But the "voices in my head" are saying, "Not enough time...not fast enough....not ready...you're too chubby...you'll be the slowest..." Discouraged because when I do go out I get really bad shin splints that side-line me for a few days (I guess that's what happens when I'm not consistent---and yes, I do have good shoes). Scared because $4000 is A LOT of money. With all that we have going on at home, I fear that I will then be responsible for the difference if all the support doesn't come in. I'm not usually a pessimist. Quite the contrary actually. But, to be fair and truthful, I'm discouraged and scared.

That said, my sign-on date, kick-off party is on Wednesday. Having lived through leukemia, I'm very thankful for the people who came before us and raised money for research. I really really really want to do this. I'm just nervous. Big-time. I'm thinking about how I can fundraise and the people I can reach out to. I'm thinking about how wide this can be. It will be ok right?

Ok. Enough wallowing in self-doubt. I'm officially in on Wednesday.

Can you all bug me this week and hold me accountable? I really don't like getting up at 6am but that is what I have to do to get it in. Oh boy.....

Amy- Week 3

2008-06-08T12:14:00.000-07:00

Stats: This week involved 2 days of strength training, one 2-mile walk, and a 50-minute team training session this morning. I'm trying to make it a practice of having a stronger 2nd half of any walk/run that I do so this morning, I walked for the first half, ran/walked the 2nd half. So far, I've felt great during every team session! If only they could work out with me all week long...

Story: As I left the house this morning, it was cool and cloudy so I wore my running jacket but by the time we started the run, the skies were clear and the sun was warm. Not having a car to store my things in, I tied my jacket around my waist & tossed my apartment keys into the "car key box" that they have every week. I was trying to avoid any extra bulk in the pockets. After the run, we had a shoe clinic where a very good looking guy :) from Top to Top talked about all the ins and outs of finding good shoes. I need to buy new shoes so I stuck around thinking it would be a good refresher course. Once it was over, I picked up the store's brochure, headed to the bus stop, hopped on the next one that came by and enjoyed the 20 minute ride to my neighborhood. As I exited the bus and walked toward my apartment, it hit me. I never picked up my keys from the key box!!! Everyone was gone so I was going to be stuck if my sister wasn't home. Thankfully, she was on her way home so I wasn't locked out for long. Moral of the story, keep your keys in your pocket or buy a car so you can't leave without your keys.

Mission: Chris spoke this morning before our run. Eight years ago, both of his parents were diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma within a year of each other. His mom has been in remission for years now which is great news. Sadly, his dad passed away in April due to complications from the disease. His sister has participated in several TNT events but this is his first. I think it says a lot when someone who has had this kind of direct interaction with the LLS decides to partner with the organization and raise money for the work they do. I'm glad Chris is part of our team, I find strength in his courage.

Thank You: It's so encouraging to come home after a run and have an email notifying me that a donation was made on my behalf. Thank you, Russ & Tiffany Long, for your continued support and generosity!

The Jen in GA update

2008-06-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

Hey!!

It's so exciting to hear how everyone else is doing! Heidi, how did your race go today????

Things here are going well. I ran my first 5K on Memorial Day. If you click on my web page (link on the right), you can read all about it! I finished in 34:59. I was quite please with that!

I've been to 2 of the 3 GTS. I really enjoy getting out there and running with some other people. I'm slow but steady. I think that's the way I need to be for the 'mental' part of my running.

I've been nursing a sore knee since last Mon. Like any overachiever, I haven't let it slow me down. Probably not a good idea. Anyway, I'm headed to the doctor tomorrow, looking for a referral to a sports medicine doctor. Please pray it's something that can be fixed with simple exercises or something. And before you ask, yes, I have good shoes.

On the plus side, at the end of this week I will have run 12 miles all in one week!! I can't even imagine doing it all in one day, though!!! ;-)

How is everyone else doing? Have you sent out your letters already?

Hey, Hey, Heidi!

2008-06-04T18:05:00.001-07:00

If I could be there, this is what I'd be shouting:

"Hey, hey,
Get out of her way!
Today is the day
She will put you away!
Go, Heidi!"

Have a great time! It's just about enjoying this new experience and crossing the finish line at some point. You can do it!

Mind Over Matter…

2008-06-02T19:29:00.000-07:00

“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2
What was I doing? It was mile 11 of the 13.1 River Towns half-marathon and I started believing what everyone was telling me – I am crazy! Two months ago, when Amy invited all of us into this adventure, the reactions I received (and continue to get) varied. I have a few people standing by my side, cheering me on. More often, I have those people who do not understand why I would run at all or say any encouragement to spur me on. Their words, reactions and looks all came at me around mile 11. I didn’t want to quit, but I also didn’t want to push and my mind started taking control. “If I walk these last two miles, I’ll be done in a half-hour,” I remember thinking. Fortunately, that’s when God sent Scott. Scott was running the half with his daughter and almost gave up at mile 8. He and I were with one another from that point on but never spoke until big old 11 came our way. I needed him (and his fancy watch with an odometer) to keep me going. We talked, set goals, and drank water from the tire shop to get us through those last two miles. And you know what? I did it! In 2 hours, 16 minutes, and 29 seconds. I did it! Those final miles, all my mental and physical energy were spent, but when I crossed that finish line my only thought was “I just stinkin’ ran a half-marathon!” The journey was long, but the transformation finally came. Daily, many parts of my life need that transformation – my speech, diet, spending, etc. And as Paul reminds me, that transformation is a journey, a process, a four-month (or more) adventure - a bunch of little steps that get me to the goal. Lord, renew my mind and transform my ways into Yours.

Amy- Week 2

2008-06-01T11:27:00.000-07:00

The Good: Another Sunday morning team training session accomplished! After last week's run/walk with the slowest running group, I thought I would see what happened if I trained with the walking group. One of the reasons that I wanted to train with the walking group is because our coaches have decided to have us run for a specific period of time and not a specific distance. This is a difficult adjustment for me but I'm trying to go with it and see how I respond. The walking group was scheduled to walk for 45 min. and the beginner running group to run/walk for 35 min. I really wanted at least a 45 min. workout so this was a good chance to see what my fellow walkers were made of! ;) I found three walkers who kept a great pace and I stayed with them for the full 45 min. We walked along the ridge overlooking the ocean, beautiful! I don't own a Garmin so I don't know what our distance was but it was a good workout!

The Bad: After last week's inspirational team run, my hopes were high and I expected to have a week filled with motivation for my workouts. Hm, that was not the case and it was disappointing. I think part of my problem is that I'm not getting home from work until 7:30pm or so and I walk about 1.75 miles a day in my commute. Of course, it's not the same as a concentrated run/walk but it is mileage and after walking home from work, it's hard to put on running clothes and go back out for more. So, yes, my daily life is active and yes, those were excuses for why my midweek sessions were almost non-existent. This week will be better. This week I will make time for my midweek workouts. I am committed to this!

The Mission: Our team has an "Honoree Captain" (Katy) who helps us stay connected to the cause. One of the ways she accomplishes this is to organize a weekly "mission moment" where someone shares their story or reason for getting involved in TNT. This week, she shared a bit about her own young daughter, Audrey (pictured below.) Today is the one year anniversary of Audrey's leukemia diagnosis, she has been enduring treatments since and will continue for another 14 months. As you know, cancer treatments are incredibly invasive, often causing significant changes in behaviors and personalities of patients. Katy was most excited to share that Audrey seems to be more like herself today than she has since treatment began! That must be so exciting for a mom to see in her child. This is why my college friends and I have a goal of raising $27,800 for the LLS. And if you add my mom & sister-in-law, our minimum goal is $34,700! Wow, that's a lofty goal but people are generous and many want a way to help find a cure for cancer so it can be done!

Amy- Week 1

2008-05-25T11:55:00.000-07:00

1 Down, 21 To Go! I got up bright and early this morning and met my Westside TNT team for our first team run along the beach in Santa Monica. It was a short one (2.5 miles) but I felt good and kept a better pace than I expected. In fact, I ran/walked it with the slowest running group instead of the walking group. Now, the fact that I could more than keep up came as a surprise to me because the last few weeks have been difficult for me when it comes to training. I just had a hell of a time getting out the door to run. I don't know why it was harder than usual, I suspect it was just one of those inexplicable lulls that magically appear every now and again. I think this morning helped me break through that wall so that now I'm looking forward to this week's workouts. Phew!

For anyone else dreading those early mornings, you are not alone. I'm not a morning person. Understatement of the year! As I stood in the parking lot waiting for things to begin, a couple coaches thought they would tell some jokes in hopes to "break the ice" or entertain the group of strangers that stood before them. Ya gotta love their energy but if you think I'm going to laugh at jokes in the 7 o'clock hour, you are sadly mistaken. I just stood there trying to wake up, trying to be coherent enough to introduce myself to at least a couple fellow team members. Responding to bad jokes was far from the realm of possibility but "hi, I'm Amy" should have been feasible. Instead, I just looked at the girl next to me, who was also as mute as I had been up to that point, and said, "well, I guess we know who the morning people are." Thankfully, she offered a "no kidding!" smile and shook her head in agreement. After the run, we actually met and it turns out we have the same mentor. These early mornings mean that it will take me longer to get to know my teammates but I'm looking forward to it, nonetheless.

It looks like it's going to be a great season filled with great people who are united for one cause. We met one our team's honored patients this morning. Jamie was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma when she was 23 and endured 6 months of chemo followed by radiation. Thankfully, she has been in remission for 4 years and is participating in a triathlon in 2 weeks! We also heard from a teammate who's friend lost her 2 year old to leukemia and that she, herself, is a survivor of ovarian cancer, 28 years strong! More reminders as to why we're doing this. More motivation for getting oneself out the door to run.

Tips, Tips!

2008-05-16T18:42:00.000-07:00

Girls. Two words: ipod Shuffle! Oh. my. gosh. Talk about relief from the "keep running, keep running, my cramp hurts, keep running" thoughts. Invest. eBay's a great place to start.

AND whoa! Who knew? Check out www.mapmyrun.com. It's absolutely fabulous! You can figure out a route without having to hop in your car. And it has a really great training log feature.

Woo hoo! Go girlies!!!!

And: I signed the papers last night. $4800 here I come!

May Update

2008-05-07T13:58:00.001-07:00

So, it's May and that means more of you will be signing up officially for the marathon or half marathon at your info meetings! Don't forget to send me the link to your fundraising websites once they've been set up so I can add them here.

Since things have been a little slow on the blog the last couple weeks, I thought I'd check in to see how everyone is doing. How are your workouts? Are you able to get in a few runs/walks a week? Are you feeling stronger, increasing your distances, able to run for a larger portion? Are you excited about your progress or frustrated with it? This is a long journey so be assured that there will be both ups and downs but even in the downs, progress is made.

I'm feeling mostly good about my workouts although, I missed one last week. That's why it was so important that I run yesterday and get myself back on track this week. I feel like I have more realistic expectations this time around which means when I miss a run, I don't beat myself up about it but I do all I can to make sure I start fresh asap. My first team run is next Sunday and sadly, I'll have to miss it since I'll be out of town. But I'm really looking forward to meeting some of my local teammates, coaches and mentors and getting into the longer distances. I know it will be hard but I guess I'm looking forward to that challenge.

I've started sending out my fundraising emails and I'm excited to see where my first donation comes from! It's so fun to see the generosity of others unfold before your eyes in such a tangible way. I've already received an email from someone I don't even know (but is a friend of a friend), asking if they can send a check! I love that!

So, that's my May update. Let us know how you're doing and how we can best support you.

Here Or There

2008-05-03T13:08:00.001-07:00

I wrote a running related entry on Thursday but didn't post it here. I accidentally posted it there. Oops.

Hope you all had some good workouts this week!

I'm in, too!

2008-04-28T19:34:00.000-07:00

My meeting was Saturday and I signed up! Now I need to climb back on the exercise wagon I've fallen off. Can someone please ask me if I've run tomorrow?

Thanks!
Jen

I am in!

2008-04-28T18:27:00.000-07:00

I had my TNT meeting tonight and officially signed up! I'll see all of you in San Francisco in Ocotober. Can't wait!

3 Cheers For Katie!

2008-04-26T01:10:00.000-07:00

Give me a "K"
Give me an "A"
Give me a "T"
Give me an "I"
Give me an "E"

What's that spell? KATIE!
Louder? KATIE!!
One more time? KATIE!!!

Just in case you need a little pick-me-up before your 6 mile Saturday run!

One Day at a Time - through Grace

2008-04-24T12:16:00.000-07:00

Ever have one of those days where you don't feel like you can do one more thing or your brain will explode? It seems to have been one of those months! How can one keep sane with trying to do everything? I've been walking around muttering this to my self the past few weeks: "I can't be everything to everyone all the time!!" And somehow, God keeps bringing the word GRACE into my head.... Grace for my loss of temper for the 100th time in a day, Grace for forgetting to pack Timmy's library book on Thursdays, Grace for not spending time with the Lord like I should..... and yes, even grace for when I haven't exercised the amount I want to.

Grace is enough - it is sufficient. I don't need to live in the mindset of "how often I haven't been able to work out", but live with the mindset of "what can I do from now on" (even when I'm not where I want to be physically). One day at a time, one run at a time. I've been loving the verses in 2 Timothy 2 - "You then, my son(daughter), be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus... endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus... similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules." It takes a lot of work to become a better runner (or runner period in my mind!), but when I have a bad day (month!), I'm trying to remember the grace given to me - and that I can still do this running thing even if yesterday was bad. :)

Anyone relate?? :)

Run Like The Wind

2008-04-23T23:34:00.000-07:00

Or maybe just with the wind. Living in southern California has allowed me the opportunity to run or walk outside since I started training without thinking much about layering. Having spent most of my life in the northeast, this is quite the luxury! Did you know that it's possible for some flowers to bloom in February? I know, it defies all logic. One of these days, I'm going to take a camera with me as I run through my neighborhood so I can document the beautiful foliage that decorates my path. Now that spring has arrived in most areas of the country, have you been able to take your workouts off the treadmill and into your neighborhoods or local parks and trails?

I find running outside a good test of presence. Over the last few years, learning to become more present in my life has become a practice of mine. I'm still a work in progress but small changes have been made. Walking through my neighborhood, I try to be intentional about noticing the trees, flowers, birds, sky, wind, children and not just their visual beauty but their sounds, smells and textures. Even though I've been running the same route over the last few weeks, tonight I saw some things I had never seen before like a huge, awkwardly beautiful tree I've passed at least 25 times but never noticed it's unusual shape. As an added perk, whenever I'm focused on being present, I find my workouts becomes easier, I feel lighter and stronger, and the time passes more easily. When I focus on being tired, out of shape, too slow, in pain, etc., the workouts are really difficult and never-ending. With all the noise that has been bombarding my brain as of late, these present moments are precious and I'm grateful for them.

Wishing each of you present and precious workouts.

Back on the wagon this week...

2008-04-19T03:21:00.000-07:00

So, I was able to get back into a routine of exercise this week and I was glad. It was hard getting the motivation at first, but once I was going I was glad a did. My friend Mary is walking with me on our lunch hour and we did a 2 1/2 mile loop twice this week. I think it helps my stress level in general too as I actually get away from my desk for a little while. Novel concept, huh? Anyway, I did the elliptical at home two other days for 40 minutes each. I told Ian last night that I feel like I have a ton more energy which is great! I'm taking this weekend off as we are heading to spend Passover with Ian's family in Long Island. Not that there aren't places to work out in Long Island, but it's going to be a busy weekend and I don't want the added pressure of having to squeeze in a workout. How did everyone else do this week?

Running a 5K

2008-04-15T18:05:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm signing up for a 5K next month. I'm excited about it. I ran for two miles straight on Monday - the longest of my life, probably. LOL I feel like I'll be plenty prepared.

A couple of people from our church small group are going to do it as well. I think it'll be great thing to experience before the big one!

Anyone else running a race between now and October?

No Turning Back Now

2008-04-15T13:49:00.000-07:00

I think I mentioned that the Greater Los Angeles chapter of TNT has an early bird registration. Well, since so many of you have already committed and begun your training and fundraising, I figured I had no reason to delay making this official. That's right, folks, I have signed on the dotted line and am officially registered for my second endurance event with TNT! Sometimes, I still can't believe I'm doing this again but it's gonna be fantastic.

When are your info meetings? I imagine most of you will sign up at those meetings so I'm curious to know when those will be held and who will be the next one to make it official. :)

Concerts, Kids, and Praise

2008-04-14T12:22:00.000-07:00

I will confess. This week was awful...and the one coming doesn't look much better.

Awful and Kids: rain, long work days, NYSSMA, Greg broke a tooth on a day that I had plans to go to the gym. I couldn't get out at all! (Greg is fine....they bonded the tooth. I guess that's what happens when you go down the slide face-first at recess). Then.....Long story short, Keren was in the ER last night and the pediatric opthamologist this afternoon...she had a LARGE splinter in her eye. The Dr. removed it and now we pray for healing as wood (what was in her eye) is one of the worst forms of germs to get in the eye. She also has a blister on her eyeball as the eye was trying to protect itself.
This week looks just at gross as I have 3 concerts, a boring staff development, another eye dr. appt, and a house under construction. Did I mention that I need to pack my entire kitchen, dining room, and living room so the beautiful construction crew can gut my house? Does all that packing and moving count as cross training??!

Run???!!! Exercise????!!!! When? How?

But: I continue to run the race (both physical and spiritual) and keep the faith (both the physical and spiritual). Katie, I understand the need for praise. I covet those runs/walks when I go around my neighborhood with nothing but the breeze and my ipod. Just to sing and praise...beautiful time. And necessary!

Also, you all asked about improvements....this past weekend I was on a women's retreat. Many women went for a walk but they left ahead of me. I was able to jog the 1/2 mile to catch up to them! Half mile straight!!! Now that's an improvement for me. Slow but progress nonetheless.

AND....I was just emailed today about a woman that I went to high school with. Her name is Heather. Today she was having bone marrow removed because they believe that she has leukemia...and a form that is incurable. So please pray for her. She is a wife and a mom of 2 beautiful little kids. She loves her family and she loves the Lord. Pray.

Love you guys.....

One Weekend, Three Blessings

2008-04-13T16:35:00.000-07:00

"Bless the Lord, oh my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name." Psalm 103:1

This past week I began my first official running plan. I decided to take eight weeks to work on getting into long distance shape before I begin marathon training. I am following a half-marathon workout schedule hoping to get some endurance built up.

Today, I spoke at camp for a church retreat on Psalm 103. Their theme was "Showers of Blessing" and my message focused on "Blessing the Bless-er." The idea originally came from the song - "Blessed Be Your Name" sung by Tree63. One of the most interesting parts of this passage is that David does not make any requests, petitions or pleas to God. He simply praises Him. I can't remember the last time or if I have ever done that! So my closing challenge was to set aside some time this week to do that. As the speaker, I thought I should be an example and do the challenge today. So here it goes....some blessings of the weekend.

$143 down...I held my first fundraiser on Friday. I spent 7 hours on Thursday baking 10 pies - 2 cherry, 3 apple, 3 strawberry and 2 coconut cream. Friends of my parents were having a yard sale in their community and I was hoping to sell the pies throughout the Friday and Saturday event. Thankfully, all the pies sold on Friday!!! My goal was to raise $140 and I passed by $3!!! WHOOOO HOOOO! I was shocked and thankful that I would not have a ton of leftover pies. That would have thrown a huge wrench in my training 'diet.' (What ever that is!)
Buster Martin completed the London marathon! To unwind after a busy weekend, I turned on the news. The final report was an inspirational piece about Buster who finished the London marathon today in 10 hours. If he can do it, so can we. He is 101 years old! Be encouraged! I find stories like that inspirational as I train.
I had running partner! It may be short-lived...yet I hope it isn't. Last night, out of the blue, Shannon called me and asked me to go for a run. We mapped out a two-mile course on the farm and ran it together. I am sure I slowed him down, but it was a blessing to workout together!

How was your week?

2008-04-12T06:25:00.000-07:00

Since it's Saturday, I thought I'd ask how your week went. Did you meet your goals for the week? Did you exceed them?

I had a 'normal' week here. I ran on M, W, F. I ran farther than I intended on W and stuck with that distance on F. When I stop feeling like I'm going to die at the end of that length of run, I'll move up to a 2 mile run. Can I call it a run if some people can probably walk as fast as I 'run'? LOL

Changes

2008-04-07T10:52:00.000-07:00

Now that we're a few weeks (or more for some) into our training, I thought I would see if anyone has noticed any changes. Are you feeling stronger? Is that first mile a little easier? Do you look forward to your workouts or even to increases in them? Are you able to walk or run a little farther or faster than you could when you started? Have you noticed any muscle definition? Are you feeling better or noticing that you have more energy? Mentally, have you noticed a shift in how you approach workouts?

I could go on with the questions but I'll leave it at that and look forward to your responses. In the meantime, have a great training week!