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I first started this blog in 2008 when I was beginning my first job assignment abroad.  Fast forward to 2016 and I am a completely different person!  I've gone from an single, traveling, obese couch potato to a wife, stepmother, and marathoner! Change is natural and is a part of life.  As I begin to focus more on running, nutrition, and weight loss, I wanted a more focused blog.  With this being said, please join me at my new location...

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Six Marathons in Less Than Four Years

Wow!  It has been nearly three years since I last blogged.  There have been several times in which I have thought, "I should blog about this," yet it has not happened.  Blogging is therapeutic. It is a way to get your thoughts on paper, to find your voice, to bring out your inner feelings. So, today is the day in which I blog once more.

Looking ahead to 2016 first requires a reflection into the past.  This past year, 2015, found me completing two marathons (26.2 miles).  The last time I completed two marathons in one year was in 2012 when I completed my first marathon in Mexico on March 4th and then completed my second with Team in Training in San Francisco on October 14th.  March 4th, 2012 was a big day for me. I blogged about this day as a part of my health journey.  You can read about more about my health journey HERE.

First Marathon
Race Name: Lala Marathon
Location: Torreon, Coahuila, Mexico
Distance: 26.2 miles
Date: March 4, 2012
Time: 4:31:23

This marathon was so meaningful to me on so many levels.  Truly, the picture above says it all.  Going from a non-runner to a marathon runner in less than a year was huge!  Running marathons is more than simply physically training your body to do something.  It is an emotional and spiritual training as well.  On this day, March 4th, 2012, I was celebrating all that God had brought me through.  God was showing me, "Yes, you are worth it! Yes, you can do it!"  I hope to find myself back in Torreon someday to run this marathon once again.  No matter how "dangerous" a country may be, there are always good people in the midst of darkness.

Second Marathon
Race Name: Nike Women's Marathon
Location: San Francisco, California
Distance: 26.2 miles
Date: October 14, 2012
Time: 4:41:38

It was not long after completing my first marathon that I found myself online looking up my next marathon.  I was finishing my nearly four year teaching career abroad and preparing myself for a new life stateside. Looking up a fall marathon in late spring proved to be difficult.  Many races were already sold out.  Then I found Team in Training.  By signing up for San Francisco's Nike Women's Marathon with Team in Training, I had a way into the race.  The only catch was that I needed to find a way to raise $2,500 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.   Fortunately, with the help of my team, family, friends, and an arm wrestling event, I was able to meet my goal by the deadline.

My experience with Team in Training was fantastic!  I enjoyed the team workouts, the expert coaches, and the lasting friendships I made.  The difficult part about being a member of Team in Training, however, was the hour+ drive to get to the team workouts.  Looking back on my training leading up to this marathon, I can see how I skimped on my mid-week runs.  Had I been more faithful to get in all of my runs, I probably would have seen a better finishing time.  But with the amount of hills in San Francisco, I choose to be proud of myself for a finishing time of 4:41:38.

One of the best parts about being a part of Team in Training was that it was a whole celebration weekend, instead of just doing the race and being done.  We enjoyed the expo on Saturday, had a dinner that evening, and stayed in a nice hotel.  We had the race Sunday morning, were able to rest in the hotel that afternoon, and then had a dinner / dance party that evening in our hotel.  Yes, can you believe that we were all dancing after running 26.2 miles?!  The next morning, Monday, we checked out of the hotel and headed home.

Third Marathon
Race Name: Nike Women's Marathon
Location: San Francisco, California
Distance: 26.2 miles
Date: October 20, 2013
Time: 6:06:00

After returning home from a positive experience at the Nike Women's Marathon, I convinced two of my friends to train for their first marathon and to do next year's Nike Women's Marathon with me.  We applied early for the lottery and fortunately were chosen.  This marathon was not about aiming for a PR, but instead was about getting my two friends across the finish line.

Since we were not a part of a big group, we chose a cheaper route and stayed in a hostel close to Union Square.  It was a fairly nice hostel.  We all three shared a room.  Biz and I cozied up on the larger bottom bunk while Heather slept on the small top bunk.  Since we were only staying one night, we had to check out at 5:30 the next morning before making our way to the starting line.  We returned to the hostel after the race feeling tired and dirty.  There was no hot shower for us.  Instead, we grabbed our bags, hopped in the car, and began the three hour drive home.

As for the race, Heather was in front of Biz and I for most of the marathon.  It wasn't until the final few miles that we caught up to Heather.  Both told me that I hadn't accurately portrayed the number of hills on the course (oops... perhaps I hadn't accurately remembered the number of hills) and told me that this was their first and final marathon.  (I'm still hoping that they'll do more marathons with me someday.)  In the end, we were all glad to have completed this marathon, their 10th anniversary, since it ended up being the last time the 26.2 mile course was offered.  The next year they had a half marathon only and then announced that the race was leaving San Francisco entirely.

Fourth Marathon
Race Name: Avenue of the Giants Marathon
Location: Northern California
Distance: 26.2 miles
Date: May 5, 2014
Time: 4:50:32

My dear co-worker, Jennifer, lovingly convinced me to sign up to run my fourth marathon in a new location, the Avenue of the Giants.  Through Jennifer, I met Amber, an incredible new runner and mom to seven children.  Might I also add, speedy runner.  I lovingly convinced Amber to sign up to complete the marathon, her first marathon, with me.  As with my fall 2012 marathon, I found myself skimping on my mid-week runs. Comparing life in training as a single person in a low-stress job (my first marathon) to life in training as a wife, stepmom, and in a new job is eye opening.  Balancing it all can be difficult.  Taking an hour+ out of my day to get in a run when at the end of the day I am exhausted, is difficult.

I stuck with it however and still got in my long runs with Amber on Saturday mornings.  Running with Amber was an experience on its own.  Amber loved to talk and I loved to listen.  This worked out well.  Amber had unending energy.  At the end of a 19 mile run, Amber casually announced, "I am going to run two more."  At stop lights, I thought, "Oh!  Hallelujah!  I get to stop and rest for a moment."  Whereas Amber, jogged in place looking light as a feather.  Although Amber was a new runner, she was made to run.  It was a joy to train with her.  She pushed me to go faster, to go longer, and to step out of my comfort zone.

As for the race, Amber and I headed up to Eureka the day before to pick up our race packet and to relax before our big day.  Saturday night, we met up with Jennifer (who was running the half marathon the next day) and her daughter Hannah (who was our unofficial cheerleader and photographer) for a relaxing dinner.  Sunday morning we got up early, checked out of our hotel, and made the 40 minute drive to the starting line.

The race started out strong, but in the first half Amber found herself in pain, in her knees especially.  The first half of the 26.2 mile race had many more hills that what we were expecting.  Fortunately, at the half-way point Amber spotted Hannah who was holding her bag, she popped some pain pills, and then felt much better.  Amber rocked the second half of the race.  As for me, I held back a little during the first half not wanting to leave Amber since their was her first marathon.

During the second half, I ended up being the one in pain.  The skimping of the mid-week runs was catching up to me.  After going back and forth with Amber (she'd pass me, then I'd pass her, then she'd pass me), I finally told her to go ahead.  Amber ended up joyfully crossing the finish line 11 minutes in front of me. Here's a little clip of how I felt at mile 25 before my phone died...

Overall, the Avenue of the Giants Marathon was a positive experience.  The course was beautiful and serene, unlike the mega marathons I had done previously.  There were not a lot of bystanders, there were not a lot of cars, and there were not a lot of businesses lining the course.  There were trees, trees, and more trees.  The air was fresh and the meandering road for the first half was beautiful!  I was not completely satisfied with my finish time so I quickly set next year's race as a goal to come back stronger and faster.

Fifth Marathon
Race Name: Avenue of the Giants Marathon
Location: Northern California
Distance: 26.2 miles
Date: May 3, 2015
Time: 4:28:50

My fifth marathon was on the same course as the year before, Avenue of the Giants.  This time around I trained and completed the marathon by myself.  I signed up for the race hungry for a PR.  I had two elusive goals: complete a half marathon under two hours and complete a marathon under 4 and a half hours. In order to reach these two goals, I knew my training had to be spot on.  I started my training with a new juicing regime thanks to the juice master himself, Jason Vale.  http://www.juicemaster.com/running-on-juice/ One of my favorite training smoothies was the Juice Master's Marathon Smoothie.

As for the long runs, I approached these differently as well.  Instead of whipping out 18 miles all at once on a out and back course, I broke it in half.  I ran the first half on a out and back course, stopped back by the house to refill water / use the restroom, and then I headed out for the second half on a different out and back course.  I found this to be much more tolerable and it broke up the monotony of a long run.

One of the other aspects that made this marathon exciting and unique was that my mom joined me for the weekend.  This was the first time she saw me complete a marathon!  It was so special to share in this momentous occasion with her.  We drove up to Eureka the day before, picked up my race packet, and then enjoyed the rest of the day together.  The next morning we woke up early, checked out of the hotel, and made our way to the starting line.  I felt confident and strong as I waited for the gun to go off signally the start of the race.

The first few miles, however, were surprisingly more difficult than what I was anticipating. Fortunately, I soon came up behind a guy who was running with a prosthetic leg.  This sent chills throughout my body as I thought, "What do I have to complain about?"  I ran up next to him and started a conversation.  I learned that his name was Mason Carter.  This was his first marathon and he traveled to the event with his girlfriend from Bedminster, New Jersey.  I never learned his history of having a prosthetic leg, but that was okay.  Mason and I ran that next seven or so miles together.  I was amazed by how well he was doing.  He was inspiring me to go faster.  Due to this inspiration, I came through the half way point, which was also the start & finish line, at 1:59:42!  I spotted my mom on the sidelines, gave her a quick hug, passed off my jacket, grabbed a banana, and then I was off again.  (After the race, my mom told me that she was surprised by how sweaty I was when she kissed my cheek.)

The second half was not as good as I had wanted, but it was better than the previous's year's second half.  I was challenged by a co-worker to listen to Christian music while I run.  Therefore, for the majority of my training, I listened to the local Christian radio station.  I found the words to be uplifting which added fuel to my runs.  Race day was no different.  I tuned in to the local Christian radio station on my iPod and listened closely to the lyrics.  At one point, at about mile 23, "You Alone" by David Crowder started playing.  I was so overcome by emotions that I threw both hands up in the air, closed my eyes, and continued running (slowly at this point) through the Avenue of the Giants.  (At this point in the race, people were pretty spread out so that weren't many people around me.  I had passed Mason about about mile 14.  So at this point I was on my own.)  Here's the song...

The part of the song that proclaims, "I'm alive! I'm alive! I'm alive!" became my anthem.  I praised God for all that he had given me: my life, my salvation, my family, my husband, my two stepchildren, my two legs, etc.

I came across the finish line with a new PR of 4:28:50!  This was an improvement of more than 20 minutes from last year's marathon on the same course!  In this one race I met both of my goals: to finish a half in under two hours and to finish a marathon in under 4 and a half hours!  My mom was there at the finish line to greet me and I felt on top of the world!

Sixth Marathon
Race Name: Beat the Blerch Marathon
Location: Sacramento, California
Distance: 26.2 miles
Date: November 14, 2015
Time: 4:59:59

Without fail, after every marathon I find myself in a slump, the post marathon slump.  Yes, it is a real thing. Just take a visit to your favorite search engine, type in "post marathon slump" and you'll see what I mean.  I will admit that I am addicted.  Addicted to the the high I feel coming across that finish line of a marathon, the high of spectators observing you do something that some would consider ridiculous, the high of knowing you just burned over 3,000 calories!  I find myself mindlessly looking up local marathons, exotic marathons, and crazy marathons.  I just recently discovered the World Marathon Challenge: 7 marathons 7 days 7 continents.  I could barely sleep that night because I found it to be so exciting!  I have caught the bug, the marathon bug.

With that being said, my doctor has recommended that I take a break from marathon training for the time being.  Although marathon training has many health benefits, it can also take its toll on your body.  I reluctantly resigned myself to shorter distance runs and no marathons until further notice.  Then I saw a bib posted for sale for a new race that was coming to our area, Beat the Blerch, and I wanted in!    

I had been eyeing this race for months.  I followed its Facebook page, checked registration prices, and tried to get my friends to join me.  I, however, knew that I was suppose to be taking a break from marathon training.  At the last minute, less than three weeks before the race date, I saw that several runners were posting their bibs for sale to transfer their registration to someone else.  I bought a half marathon bib at half price and I was so excited! Now I had that taste in my mouth, the taste of another marathon.  Could I run a marathon without training?  Sure, I had been running, but only 1 - 3 miles a day.  Would I get injured if I tried to push myself 26.2 miles?  

A week before the race date, two weeks after purchasing the half marathon bib, I headed out for a run.  I thought, "If I can do 13.1 miles today, I should be able to do 26.2 miles next weekend."  And that's what I did.  I did 13.1 miles on my own a week before the race date.

The night before the big day I still didn't know if I was running 13.1 miles or 26.2.  I figured I'd ask registration people when I picked up my race packet to see if I could switch.  When I got to the front of the line, asked how much it would cost to transfer to a full marathon, and then was told it'd be $10, I exclaimed, "Sold!"  I was ecstatic!  I purchased the Oatmeal's book The Terrible and Wonderful Reasons Why I Run Long Distances, had it signed by the Oatmeal himself (Matthew Inman), purchased some last minute fuel while at REI, and then excitedly headed out to the car to let Tim know that I would be running a full marathon that next morning.  Needless to say, Tim didn't quite understand my crazed excitement.

When I posted the following picture the next morning, many were confused.  I hadn't been posting pictures of training runs and no one knew that I was running a full marathon.  It was all done on the spur of  the moment. I wanted to see if I could run 26.2 miles without training.  (I use "run" lightly.  It was more of a walk/jog.)

I started out feeling relatively strong, for not training that is.  I took my first walk break the earliest in to a marathon than ever before.  It was somewhere around mile eight.  "Uh oh!" I thought as I began to contemplate how this was all going to turn out.  

One of the draws I had to this marathon was that there'd be "large quantities of cupcakes at every aid station, in addition to Nutella and magical grape beverages." Again, Tim questioned, "Aren't you a little leary what "magical grape beverage" entails?" Again, I shrugged my shoulders, smiled, and responded, "Nope."  Another aspect of the race that excited me was the promise that there'd be "actual Blerchs in fat-suits chasing you throughout the race."  Who would have guessed that adults in fat-suits and magical grape beverages would get me to sign up to do 26.2 miles?!

Sadly, I only saw one adult in a fat suit and it wasn't until mile 24. The large quantities of cupcakes, Nutella sandwiches, and magical grape beverages began at mile three and continued at about every two to three miles.  No one in their right mind, however, would dare eat cupcakes or Nutella at mile three of a 26.2 mile race.  That is unless they wanted to either barf or poo in their pants.  I didn't want either of these things so I steered clear until I came across that Blerch sitting on the couch at the aid station at mile 24.  I grabbed my cake on a stick and said, "Chase me Blerch!"  He obliged and ran with me for the next mile.  

As I made my way to the finish line at Raley Field, I passed some half marathoners (which always makes me feel good since they have done half the distance and had an hour later start time) and passed some innocent bystanders who quipped, "There goes those weird people participating in some weird event happening at Raley Field."  I am proud to report that without training, I crossed the finish line in less than five hours!  Not bad considering I walked a LARGE portion of the distance.  I proved, once again, that yes, it can be done!

Six marathons in less than four years!  

Gone are the days of the woman who said, "This body doesn't run."  

Year 29 Week Two

I survived my first week at Lindhurst! Only 10 more weeks to go! Overall it was a good week, but there were a few who really gave me a run for my money! I am confident, however, that I will not only survive, but thrive. "I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me strength."

In the midst of a busy week, Mr. Strong surprised me with a date night. He planned the whole thing. All I had to do was show up. First we ate at an Italian restaurant and then we went to the movies to watch "Oz, the Great and Powerful". It was a very delightful, refreshing night.

As far as exercise is concerned, I have been slacking. First I was sick, then I was busy, and then came the excuses. Friday I finally decided enough was enough and I headed out on my bike and then followed it up with a run. On Saturday I did the same thing, but threw a little twist in the mix by having the 8 year old tag along on the run on his new Razor. He was a trooper and did great on the 2 mile run! Perhaps I've found my new coach?!

Before our run, C enjoyed playing in his new train.  He's our train boy!

Sunday was Easter and we spent the afternoon at Mr. Strong's aunt's house. This was my first Easter celebration at her house, but if Fourth of July or Christmas was any indicator of what was to come, I knew it was going to be a real treat! One of the things I was looking forward to most was the "Big Kid Egg Hunt".  This included eggs filled with money.  I was right, it was a blast and something I am looking forward to doing next year!  I am so blessed to be married into such an awesome family!

Ready, set, GO!

The "after" shot. (Before we all started counting our money.

Year 29 Day Seven

Today was the first day of my long term sub job. This job is going to go until the end of the school year. I walked in this morning not really knowing what to expect. I wasn't sure if there were going to be lesson plans, I didn't know my student lists, etc.

All in all it turned out to be a pretty good day all things considered. In this job I am teaching special education life science (2 periods), physical science (1 period), and keyboarding (2 periods). I have two para educators who are both really great! One para is there during periods 1 through 3 and the other para comes during periods 4 through 6. There was a third para in my classroom 1 through 3, but fortunately I was notified that she was moved to a different assignment. There was a lot of tension, etc. in the classroom due to her presence.

During our fourth period prep time today, my second para and I spent the time rearranging the classroom. It now looks awesome! Many of the students had mixed reactions, but all in all I think it is going to be a good change.

I am looking forward to finishing the year out in this new classroom of mine. If I can impact at least one student, then my placement there was all worth it!

One of the "toughest" students made this welcome sign for me.  It's okay that he can't spell "Lindhurst", it's the thought that counts. (Perhaps spelling is something we can work on.)

The classroom view #1.

The classroom view #2.

This Elmo / projector was sitting unused.  I said, "Why?!" and set it up!

Teacher's Desk

Year 29 Day Six

Today Tim and I were able to sleep in and we attended the Nazarene's 11 o'clock church service. It was so nice to sleep in since we don't get to very often and I worked the night before until midnight!

Today for lunch/dinner we decided to try a new Mexican restaurant in town. Although it was good, it wasn't our favorite. I ordered a "michelada" trying to bring back some great memories from Mexico. It, unfortunately, was not the same. :(

All in all though, a great day with my husband!

Year 29 Day Five

This morning I woke up to the results of my blood test in my inbox. I excitedly clicked on the link to read my results. Four and a half years ago, as I was getting my health check up before leaving for China, I was told that I was at risk for developing diabetes. Now, four and a half years later, I have a completely clean bill of health! I never want to go back.

Year 29 Day Four

This year was my first year volunteering as a 4th - 6th grade cheer coach for my local church's basketball league. Tonight we had our final award ceremony after spending the last 9 weeks together. There were some weeks that seemed too consumed by "life" to truly appreciate the season, but now looking back on it, I would not have changed a thing. I met some amazing young ladies and parents of these young ladies during the season. 

Group picture missing two girls.

When making the decision of whether or not to volunteer this Upward season, I remembered that God calls us to use the gifts He has given us and to be His servants and to serve. (1 Peter 4:10). Sometimes it is hard for me, however, because very easily I can become too busy and I start to neglect relationships. This, therefore, is still something I am trying to ask God to help me with.

Hopefully God used me to speak into these young ladies' lives as we did our mid-practice devotional each week covering topics of "self-control", "responsibility", and "hope". Some weeks the girls were extra squirmy and I'm not quite sure how much they took away from our short devotionals.  (This seems to be true with parenting as well.  Parents do their best to teach their children the way of the Lord and then in the end must trust that they heard and will follow. Parenting is still very new for me.) 

Being a person who always strives to do my best, I wanted to do my best as a cheer coach.  During games I freted over the girls hitting the right moves, cheering loud, and remembering everything we went over during our quick 1-hour practice.  I watched other coaches who would direct their cheerleaders with calling specific cheers.  I, however, chose a different tactic.  I would simply elect two cheerleaders each week to call out the cheers (or chants) that I had taught them.  It would then be all, for the most part, student-led.  I prefered this tactic because it was teaching the girls to work together, to be a leader, and to "step up to the plate".

My biggest compliment this season came from a parent in the stands during our last game.  As I was sitting on the sideline watching the cheerleaders, she came up behind me and asked, "Are you their coach?" 

Reluctantly I answered in fear that she was going to say something negative, "Yes."

Her response then surprised me.  With a smile on her face she said, "This is the most entertaining squad I have seen yet.  My girls have been wanting to cheer, but I have been hesistant until I saw your cheerleaders.  What's your name so that I can request you next year?"

So many times I worried if what I was doing was enough.  After each practice I thought, "I could have done this... or I should have done that."  This parent's comment gave me the pat on the back that I needed.  Reflecting back on the season, I can see that there are things that I will improve upon for next season, but overall, it has been fantastic and is something that I could see myself doing again! :)

Go Upward!

End of season treats I made for each girl.

Year 29 Day Three

Tomorrow I am having a blood analysis examine to see how healthy / unhealthy I am. Since I ate nachos, drank margaritas, and then finished my evening off with ice cream & a Cookie Tree cookie last night, I realized that today would be an "undo" day.

Let's see how successful I was...

6:30am Green Smoothie (red kale, carrots, celery, apple, orange, and ginger juiced. Blended together with frozen strawberries, blueberries, peaches, and melon.)
7:30am Bowl of Kashi cereal with a banana & almond milk and two cups of coffee
11:25am Hummus, carrots, red & green bell pepper, sugar snap peas, and five multigrain crackers (ok, perhaps I also may have bought a bag of M&M's from a high school senior selling them as a fundraiser. Does it help that I only ate half if the bag?)
3:30 apple, (cookie), and a handful if almonds **After-school is my most difficult time. I am normally starving and want to eat everything and anything. I am also suffering from "I-just-want-to-snack".
5:45 Kale, polenta, and sun-dried tomatoes.

**begin the 12 hour fast**

If I were to grade myself today, I would give myself a B-. I must remember, it is progress, not perfection.

Year 29 Day Two

Today I celebrated my birthday and new job with two of my running buddies & friends. We had a great time drinking margaritas and enjoying some girl talk.

The 29th Year

"I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans for you to prosper. Plans to give you a hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

The above scripture was one that came to mind last night as I was thinking of my favorite scripture. It's so easy to forget that God has everything under control when life is uncertain, isn't it? It's so easy to fret and worry over the big things, or even the little things, isn't it? It is for me at least. But time and time again there is God, standing patiently, waiting for me to trust Him, to let go.

Today marks the start of my 29th year. So far it's looking as though this will be the best one yet! This morning I woke up next to the most amazing, Godly man, my husband. I picked up a fresh produce box on my front porch. I then proceeded to make the most delicious green smoothie ever! I then headed off to my day job.... substitute teaching.

At about 9am, the email arrived in my inbox that I had been waiting for; a job offer! Starting next school year I will be teaching at a local private Christian High School and I can not wait! What's so amazing is that I will be the second Mrs. Dunlap teaching there. Yes, I am following in my mother-in-law's footsteps!

What more could I have ever wished for on the day marking the start of my 29th year?

Here's to the best year yet!

Pain Vs. Misery

Misery is optional; pain is not.   

Misery as defined by Webster is "a state of great unhappiness and emotional distress".  Pain on the other hand is "trouble, care, or effort taken to accomplish something".

I first heard the above quote from a pastor a couple weeks ago.  The quote was so profound that I could not stop thinking about it.  Misery versus pain can relate to so many aspects of life in general, and my life specifically.  When I first heard this quote, my mind immediately went to running.  Earlier that morning I had run 14.25 miles as a part of my preparation for my upcoming marathon. When I arrived to church someone asked me, "Don't your legs ever hurt?"  

I quickly responded, "Yes, of course!" 

This person then asked, "How do you push past the pain?"  I tried to explain that some days are easier than others, that it helps to have a partner to talk to so they can distract you from the pain, and there are times when it becomes too much and you must walk for a bit.  The pain is inevitable.  Misery, however, is optional.

Throughout life we all experience pain; divorce, let downs, loss of a loved one, etc.  It is up to us, however, to not allow this pain to turn into a state of misery. Too bad this is so much easier to say than do, right?!  As I like to remember, "It is progress, not perfection" I am after.

Lord, please help me to choose to accept life's pain and to not allow it to turn into misery.  Amen.

On 09/15/12 at the Run United Live United 10k race, 

my friend won 2nd place in her age division

and I won 1st place female finisher!

 

It was an exciting day for the kids too!  

They ran in their first ever race 

and came in at first and second place!

 

Where was July?

Where did the month of July go?  Why does it seem as though time flies so quickly?  Who can I ask to be able to receive more hours in the day?  Between working out at the dairy farm, to training for the Nike Women’s Marathon all while fundraising for the Leukemia & Lymphoma society, to relationships with friends/family, who has time to sit down and blog?

Here’s a typical day’s schedule:

4:30am – wake up

4:50am – run 5-6 miles at the gym

5:45am – battle ropes & strength bag class at the gym

6:45am – get ready for work

7:30am – leave for the dairy farm

4:00pm – grocery store

5:00pm – cook dinner

6:00pm – eat dinner

7:00pm – quality time with loved ones / prepare upcoming fundraising events

9:00pm – study for upcoming test

10:00pm – bed

How do I stay motivated to work out and run? 

     1)      It’s this girl…

I don’t ever want to forget how tired, unhealthy, and unhappy I felt 65 pounds heavier.  

     2)      It’s people like Kim.  Kim is on my “Team in Training” team. She, like me, is training for the Nike Women’s Marathon.  Unlike me, however, Kim has battled Lymphoma and has now been in remission since December.  Hearing her story of how she went through chemo, fought, volunteered at a Leukemia & Lymphoma event, and then decided she too could run, is very inspiring.  As I am training for the marathon and am tired / in pain / want to stop, thinking of Kim helps give me inspiration to keep on keeping on.  

Thank you Kim for being an inspiration!

Thank you in advance for your support! Together we can and will find a cure.

 

A special shout out to all of you who have already donated.  You are very much appreciated!  If you'd like to join "Team Strong", click on the picture above, click on the "donate now" button found on the right-hand-side of screen, or go to www.tinyurl.com/runstrongrun.

Team and New 5k PR

On Wednesday, June 27^th I had my second team workout.  My Placer Team in Training group met in Granite Bay at Douglas Ranch Park at 6pm.  At this point I had been home for about a week and was having some major sinus issues.  I went from a high desert with no plants to a valley with a lot of green.  The team only ran a little over 3.5 miles, but still those miles were difficult.  It was hot and my sinuses weren’t cooperating.

After the run, as I was headed home, I spotted a trail and decided to try to get a bit more mileage in for the day.  I also decided it was a good time to make a video.  Check it out HERE…

On Saturday, June 30^th (yes, only 3 days later) we had our next team workout.  This time we met at Winchester Park in Meadow Vista, California.  We were all forewarned to be prepared for some training on hills.  I, sadly, thought that the training began at 7 so I left Yuba City at 5:30.  Much to my surprise, however, no one was there when I arrived at 6:40.  It was then that I remembered something about the workout perhaps not starting until 7:30.  I leaned my seat back, grabbed my blanket, and took a wonderful 30 minute nap!

After a talk from our two coaches (Coach Nancy and Coach Laura), along with our mentors, we were off on our training run.  Quickly I picked back up with my running partner from Wednesday’s run, David. Today we were also joined by Tom and Lisa.  It was great to talk to these three, learn about their marathon journey, and to gain inspiration.  Lisa started running only a few months before me and has lost an incredible 80 pounds!  Her husband, Tom, is training to complete Lake Tahoe’s inaugural Ironman in September 2013.  It’s the first full-distance event to be in California since 2001.  Both Tom and Lisa serve as Leukemia & Lymphoma Society ambassadors.  

At about mile 4 of our 8 mile run we lost Lisa.  Then at about mile 7, David stopped for some water and Tom and I continued on.  Tom finished only slightly in front of me.  I was the first female to finish the full 8 miles.  It was a great run and the hills were an awesome challenge!

Lisa, David, myself, and Tom after our 8 hilly miles at Winchester.

The next day, July 1^st, I met Heather at her house at about 5:45am to then head to San Francisco (3 hour drive) for the Polo Field 5k race.  It didn’t start out as a very good day for me.  

1) I woke up late.  My alarm was set for 4:45am.  I was supposed to be at Heather’s house at 5:30.  I didn’t wake up until 5:37!  As fast as I could I threw on my clothes that were fortunately already lying at the end of my bed, grabbed my bag, and ran out the door.  Heather called me on the way and I began to profusely apologize for my tardiness.  In all senses of the word, I was exhausted!  Not only did I have an 8 mile team run the morning before, but I drove a total of 4 hours because I then drove the opposite way to spend the day with my boyfriend and his family.  I went to bed at 9:30pm, but still was exhausted 7 hours later!  

2) We made it to the race registration area, had about 30 minutes before race time, and then I realized that my good friend who visits me every month just so happened to rear her ugly face!  Grrr… Fortunately we were able to temporarily remedy the situation.  I was, however, wearing my brand new running shorts and my good friend didn’t take to them very well.  :/

Heather and I after the race.

 Somehow I was able to pull myself together, push myself harder than ever before, and pull out a new 5k PR!  (For those of you who don’t know, that’s means I earned a new personal record.)  My previous 5k PR was set on December 31^st and was 25:48.  This time I came in at 3.14 miles (as opposed to 3.10 miles) with a time of 24:45!  New 5k PR by over a minute!  I’ll take that for sure!  Here were my splits 7:31, 8:21, 8:04.  My average pace was 7:54.  Now, if only I could hold that for an entire 26.2 miles, I would be able to qualify for the Boston Marathon. ;)

After the race Heather and I ran across the Golden Gate Bridge before changing, eating lunch near Fisherman’s Wharf, walking for a bit, and then driving back to Yuba City.  Despite an interesting start to the day, all in all it was absolutely fantastic!

Running across the Golden Gate Bridge.

Did you know I’m training to run 26.2 miles and I’m doing this for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS)?! Please consider donating to LLS by supporting my 26.2 mile marathon. One of the ways you may support my 26.2 mile run is by pledging a dollar amount for every mile. 

$1/mile = $26.20

$2/mile = $52.40

$3/mile = $78.60

$4/mile = $104.80

$5/mile = $131.00

Thank you in advance for your support! Together we can and will find a cure.

I became interested in LLS due to my Uncle’s battle with blood cancer.  Thankfully he is in remission.  It is his strength that gives me motivation to wake up, run, and fight for a cure.  My Uncle Gene doesn’t take a single moment for granted.  HERE is his latest VIDEO he took while paragliding in Washington.

Uncle Gene

TNT in Triathlete Magazine

This morning as I was reading May's issue of Triathlete Magazine I loved seeing the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team in Training featured second in their article titled "Selflessness Through Sport". The article said, "The largest program worldwide to pair endurance sports with fundraising is the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's (LLS) Team in Training (TNT). ... To date, TNT has raised more than $1.2 billion to fund cancer research and to enhance the lives of blood cancer patients."

GO TEAM!

Please consider donating to the Leukemia and Lymphoma society by supporting my 26.2 mile marathon. One of the ways you may support my 26.2 mile run is by pledging a dollar amount for every mile.  Click HERE to donate.

$1/mile = $26.20

$2/mile = $52.40

$3/mile = $78.60

$4/mile = $104.80

$5/mile = $131.00

Thank you in advance for your support! Together we can and will find a cure.

First TEAM Workout

Thursday night, June 21^st, I arrived safely back home to Yuba City, California.  When people ask me how long I am here for, I respond with a smile, “I don’t have any plans to leave.”  It’s been almost three days since coming back and I’m still in the period of adjustment.  So many things are different; temperature (at 60 degrees I find myself bundled up and shivering), people, culture, living arrangements, food, etc.   As I was sitting in church this morning, however, I couldn’t help but smile because it feels so great to be back amongst so many loved ones!

Yesterday, Saturday June 20^th, I had the wonderful opportunity to meet up with my Placer TNT Team for a joint group workout with the Sacramento TNT Team.  We met at the Nimbus Fish Hatchery and enjoyed a chilly 8 mile run along the river.  Such a stark difference between these 8 miles and 8 miles in Torreon! 

Jana, our campaign manager, is proofreading my letter.

I ran the first 7 miles by myself, but then joined up with two women named Dora and Kelsey for the remaining 1 mile.  Never did I think I’d be running below a 9 min/mile pace and be able to hold a conversation!  I love the improvement I see in my body, health, and running the more I train!

It was so fun to be able to train with about 40 other men and women all working towards the same goal... to run a marathon while raising money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma society.  Every time I came across a team member on the trail we’d exchange a “looking good”, “go team”, or “good job”.  So inspiring!

It was nice to be able to socialize after our workout.

What was even more inspiring was hearing from a woman before our workout who shared her story with blood cancer.  She shared that after having a bone marrow transplant she was told by her doctor that she is now in remission.  Getting choked up, she continued by sharing her appreciation to us for raising funds for continued research and patient support.  She is proof that there are improvements being made and lives are being changed.

After the workout I was able to talk to Jana Greenburg our Team in Training campaign manager.  I had taken a copy of my fundraising letter to get her feedback about if there was anything I needed to add or omit.  It was so encouraging to hear her give me such positive feedback.  To read a copy of the letter you may go here: https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B1FAnBeffG0ySlVRS1ZUdk5kSlE

Jana is an awesome woman!  Go team!

Please consider donating to the Leukemia and Lymphoma society by supporting my marathon.  You may support my 26.2 mile run by pledging a dollar amount for every mile. 

1. $1/mile = $26.20
2. $2/mile = $52.40
3. $3/mile = $78.60
4. $4/mile = $104.80
5. $5/mile = $131.00

Thank you in advance for your support!  Together we can and will find a cure.   

You may donate to my event at: http://pages.teamintraining.org/sac/nikesf12/strongwells

Twelve in 2012 (and final in Mexico)

We are only half way through the calendar year and I’ve already reached my goal… 12 in 2012!  Sadly, however, I will not be running races every weekend once I return back to California since the cost for each race will be about six times as much as they are here in Mexico.  I will, however, still race because it is too fun not to!

Today’s 10k was only okay for me.  The first thing that was different this time around was that I didn’t eat my usual half of a granola bar with peanut butter because I didn’t have any granola bars in my pantry.  The next thing that went wrong is that I started the race way too fast to hold the pace the entire 6.2 miles.  Then, I had a side stitch about halfway through.  Finally, I was zapped of energy because I was tossing and turning the night before.

Although this was not my best 10k ever, I am still happy that I gave it all that I had.  A part of me didn’t mind taking it a little slower than normal because I wanted to enjoy every last moment of my last race in Mexico.  In a mere 4 days I will be leaving Torreon, Mexico in search of a job back home in California.  Many have asked, “Are you sad?”  The answer is that it’s bittersweet.  I am overjoyed to be going back home with loved ones, but I will miss so many things here in Torreon.

A wonderful gift from God was being able to run into Alejandro one more time before leaving Torreon.  In the final two kilometers Alejandro ran up behind me and said, “Animo California.”  Shocked I turned and saw Alejandro’s bright and smiling face.  Once we crossed the finish line he gave me a gift (his bag from the desert run he ran at the end of May) and we took one final picture together.  Some people have an everlasting impact on your life.  This is true about Alejandro.

Alejandro and I first met during the marathon in March 2012.

Now that my races here in Mexico are finished it’s time to focus my attention on my training for the Nike Women’s Marathon in San Francisco.  I am so stoked to return to California, meet my team, and train with them for this event.  I am also really excited that this is my first race for charity.  I will be running the Nike Women’s Marathon to raise funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  

The person I am honoring in my Leukemia and Lymphoma Society run is my Uncle Gene who has so bravely fought his battle with cancer.  He is amazingly resilient and adventurous.

Uncle Gene writes about paragliding, “The Great thing about flying is, I think that sometimes I get so high and the views are so majestic that I look up and just give thanks. From that altitude, I think there is a better chance of Him hearing me.”

Please donate to my efforts of raising lifesaving funds to fight the battle with cancer.  Together we can and will find a cure.  Please help! You may donate to my event at: http://pages.teamintraining.org/sac/nikesf12/strongwells