My true last pre-race day post... next one will be at 3:00am Sunday, with race day information on it! More post-race posts will follow!
In 2 days I will be running like crazy :) I may even be half way done, if all goes to plan by this time in 2 days...
Yesterday I went to my tap class and surprised some people including my teacher. I told them last week that Coach Paul wanted me to be off of my feet and advised to give them a break before race day... meaning no dancing... but then Coach Darin said not to change my routine and as you all know my routine is to be on my feet, LOL! I think I did a good job... no foot pains this week and I am mentally SO ready for the event to be here! I then did a few loads of laundry so I can bring my favorite running day clothes :)
As for today, the race is the only thing on mind, lol! Today I am decorating my race singlet... I will be putting my name on the front and then putting Jason's name on the back (honored teammate)! My dad is my decorating coach... we have plans to go to Michael's and buy supplies and apply the supplies on to my Team in Training singlet after dinner :)
This week has been wonderful, I am blessed!
:::Peace:::
Friday, May 30, 2008
Thursday, May 29, 2008
.... my last pre-race post!
3 days to go... the weather is unpredictable... highs are now in our favor at 66 degrees (morning clouds, pm sun) YEAH!
Yesterday I had a great evening, actually this whole week has been SUPER! I ran 4 miles with Coach Paul and we did the river trail which is pretty flat and sorta boring but easy! It was a change of scenery and we maintained a pace of exactly 10 min/mile! Then my friend Amantha came over and I made dinner! Frozen Lean Cuisine pizza and then topped it with dessert "Skinny Cow Ice Cream Sandwich" my idea of good food for low calories!
The planner that I am, I will be taking a huge break on running next week to allow my body a chance to recoup from my marathon. The plans are set for a 3 mile run on Thursday with Jeremy and Amantha! Then I will run on Saturday at Heritage Park with the TNT crowd. I will be considered a special guest along with the others who show up after completing the marathon... we show off our medals and talk of our experience! I don't know what to say but "Umm" that is about all that comes out when I am nervous, LOL!
Next week's agenda... another fun week approaching:
Yesterday I had a great evening, actually this whole week has been SUPER! I ran 4 miles with Coach Paul and we did the river trail which is pretty flat and sorta boring but easy! It was a change of scenery and we maintained a pace of exactly 10 min/mile! Then my friend Amantha came over and I made dinner! Frozen Lean Cuisine pizza and then topped it with dessert "Skinny Cow Ice Cream Sandwich" my idea of good food for low calories!
The planner that I am, I will be taking a huge break on running next week to allow my body a chance to recoup from my marathon. The plans are set for a 3 mile run on Thursday with Jeremy and Amantha! Then I will run on Saturday at Heritage Park with the TNT crowd. I will be considered a special guest along with the others who show up after completing the marathon... we show off our medals and talk of our experience! I don't know what to say but "Umm" that is about all that comes out when I am nervous, LOL!
Next week's agenda... another fun week approaching:
- Monday - attempt and excel at my tap class... showing off my medal
- Tuesday - go swimming if the weather holds up otherwise it will be some much needed scrapbook time with my friend Erin! I have 3 more pages before my wedding album is complete! My goal is to have it done by the time our 5 yr anniversary arrives... I have until Aug.10th, no problem, right? I just have to sit down and do it! I can't wear my medal in the water but I will bring it to show Erin!
- Wednesday - hang out with friends with my medal on
- Thursday - back to running but this time with Jeremy and Amantha :)~ 3 -miles after my tap class where I will show off my medal again
- Friday - Off for some Dad time, maybe we will go to the movies... it has been 4 months since our last theatre adventure... I think a medal will look good with my Friday outfit, whatever it may be!
- Saturday -Team in Training 4 miler... show off medal again
- Sunday - Hmmm Bowling with my medal on!
I guess you can I am excited to be getting my medal...
Stay tuned for my race day blog... I have it set to post at 3am... my wake up time on race day!
Love you all,
MelissaWednesday, May 28, 2008
Hump Day Special!
My last picture from yesterday! I had to show this because of the artwork KEarth added! Guess what I ate this morning for breakfast... another yummy bagel!
Back to training, yesterday I accomplished 1 hour on the elliptical machine with Gwynne... My hour helped me burn over 550 calories and I did 5.5 easy miles! We had a great time hanging out and we watched one of my Netflix movies "Over her Dead Body" with her hubby Joe! It was a cute movie that we all enjoyed!
Today is Gwynne's College graduation day with a major in Accounting! Congrats Gwynne on your accomplishment! I wish I could be their for her but I am running 4 miles with Coach Paul after working both of my jobs! Amantha will either be joining us for a run or we will go out around my house after I am done running with Coach Paul... she is scheduled to run 3 miles and is doing a great job with her running!
This is my last day running until Saturday's easy two miles and then Sunday's big 26.2 miles! My feet are feeling really good this week and I have no pains, ANYWHERE! So I think I may go to my tap class tomorrow and then I will do my laundry for our trip to San Diego!
The weather is supposed to be 69 high and 60 low! I will be decorating my race day shirt on Friday... I can't wait to show you pictures of my race singlet! Be prepared for lots of pictures coming your way soon!
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Los Angeles Radio: K-EARTH 101: The Greatest Hits on Earth - Office of the Day Photo Album
More Pictures.... and another link to the same site if the others don't work... Click on May 27th, as that is when we were office of the day!
Los Angeles Radio: K-EARTH 101: The Greatest Hits on Earth - Office of the Day Photo Album
Office of the Day
Hey everyone!
When you go to the link and see the picture for May 27th...
From back Left to right Antonio, Dave, Hal, Laurie L., Moana, Tyron, Melissa (me in the pink), Enrietta (in red), Lori B., and sitting up in front is Ruben! I will post more pictures as soon as I have a chance!
A co-worker "Enrietta Lee" wrote a really cool letter to Kearth 101 on why we "CenterStone Communities" should be chosen as their office of the day! Both my boss Hal Woods and Enrietta talked on the air... while my co-workers and I... cheered in the background!
Well WE were picked... so today we had a blast with Antonio singing to us while we ate the bagels and goodies they brought to our office... To hear us on the air and view the Office of the Day picture... click on the link below and make sure it is dated May 27th!
Office of the Day for Tuesday, May 27 or http://www.mykearth101.com/pages/336559.php?imageGalleryXRefId=551681
I hope you all enjoy it just as much as we did!
Oh yes, and 5 more days until my race! Be sure to check out my blog site before-during-after my race this Sunday! I am so excited!!!!!!!
I ran 3 miles yesterday with Amantha and we had a blast... I am speaking for her of course... until I hear different from her or her muscle aches... it was a blast!
Today is going to be Gwynne and I running around her area and watching a movie... netflix or theatre! No decisions have been made on what movie just yet!
I am looking forward to a wonderful week and an exciting weekend!
Sunday I bowled great and I am proud to announce we took all 7 points that night! This is our 4th week in a row of winning all the games, I think!
Excitement is the air!
Tomorrow I will be running with Coach Paul around the back bay for 4 miles! I am supposed to run 14 miles before race day! I am hoping to complete them all but I don't want to push it since Sunday is the big day and my first 26.2 miles of accomplishment!
Have a fun day... I know I am!
A co-worker "Enrietta Lee" wrote a really cool letter to Kearth 101 on why we "CenterStone Communities" should be chosen as their office of the day! Both my boss Hal Woods and Enrietta talked on the air... while my co-workers and I... cheered in the background!
Well WE were picked... so today we had a blast with Antonio singing to us while we ate the bagels and goodies they brought to our office... To hear us on the air and view the Office of the Day picture... click on the link below and make sure it is dated May 27th!
Office of the Day for Tuesday, May 27 or http://www.mykearth101.com/pages/336559.php?imageGalleryXRefId=551681
I hope you all enjoy it just as much as we did!
Oh yes, and 5 more days until my race! Be sure to check out my blog site before-during-after my race this Sunday! I am so excited!!!!!!!
I ran 3 miles yesterday with Amantha and we had a blast... I am speaking for her of course... until I hear different from her or her muscle aches... it was a blast!
Today is going to be Gwynne and I running around her area and watching a movie... netflix or theatre! No decisions have been made on what movie just yet!
I am looking forward to a wonderful week and an exciting weekend!
Sunday I bowled great and I am proud to announce we took all 7 points that night! This is our 4th week in a row of winning all the games, I think!
Excitement is the air!
Tomorrow I will be running with Coach Paul around the back bay for 4 miles! I am supposed to run 14 miles before race day! I am hoping to complete them all but I don't want to push it since Sunday is the big day and my first 26.2 miles of accomplishment!
Have a fun day... I know I am!
Monday, May 26, 2008
Happy Memorial Day
Thank you soldiers for our FREEDOM!
We had pouring down rain all Friday evening through Saturday morning... luckily it had stopped in time for our training!
This season we have been so blessed by not having to deal with rain during our training! NO Rain... whoo hoo!!!! For that I am very Grateful!
This Sat was our last training as a team.... bittersweet... but yet exciting too! Because Rock'n'roll is almost here! We had a blast out on the dry trail, we only ran 10 miles.... but it was a little rough on my feet! I bought some insole inserts for extra cushion on my feet but I didn't know that i needed to take out the old insoles... so I couldn't feel my toes after a mile of running! Needless to say, the inserts came out and i was fine! We also cheered on the new TNT team for the Fall season as they ran 2 miles yesterday. It was really special for me because my friend Amantha is on this team. She is a swing dancer and has never ran more than 2 miles in her life... She is now training for her first 26.2 miler!!! I am proud of her and she was so sweet to tell me that I inspired her! That is so sweet!!!
Their was an accident Saturday, a teammate from the Fall season team had tripped on a curb and her glasses broke and cut her face. One of our teammates called 911 and the head coach and once she was in good hands.... i continued to run! From Amantha... she said that the ambulance and fire came out to check on her! It wasn't anything serious just for precaution. The lady is training for a marathon too... as a walker! She wanted to continue on her 2 miles but were advised not too! Although I mention what team season these people are, we are all ONE team and it showed yesterday, yet again! Their were about 20-30 TNT people from both teams helping this one lady who had fallen! True Team SPIRIT!!!!!!
As I mentioned above, Amantha needs to raise a minimum of $2,900 to run her first marathon in San Francisco! If you can help her out in anyway... no amount is too great or small and will make a world of difference. Her donation website is: http://pages.teamintraining.org/ocie/nikesf08/awriter. Thank you so much in advance!
GO TEAM!
We had pouring down rain all Friday evening through Saturday morning... luckily it had stopped in time for our training!
This season we have been so blessed by not having to deal with rain during our training! NO Rain... whoo hoo!!!! For that I am very Grateful!
This Sat was our last training as a team.... bittersweet... but yet exciting too! Because Rock'n'roll is almost here! We had a blast out on the dry trail, we only ran 10 miles.... but it was a little rough on my feet! I bought some insole inserts for extra cushion on my feet but I didn't know that i needed to take out the old insoles... so I couldn't feel my toes after a mile of running! Needless to say, the inserts came out and i was fine! We also cheered on the new TNT team for the Fall season as they ran 2 miles yesterday. It was really special for me because my friend Amantha is on this team. She is a swing dancer and has never ran more than 2 miles in her life... She is now training for her first 26.2 miler!!! I am proud of her and she was so sweet to tell me that I inspired her! That is so sweet!!!
Their was an accident Saturday, a teammate from the Fall season team had tripped on a curb and her glasses broke and cut her face. One of our teammates called 911 and the head coach and once she was in good hands.... i continued to run! From Amantha... she said that the ambulance and fire came out to check on her! It wasn't anything serious just for precaution. The lady is training for a marathon too... as a walker! She wanted to continue on her 2 miles but were advised not too! Although I mention what team season these people are, we are all ONE team and it showed yesterday, yet again! Their were about 20-30 TNT people from both teams helping this one lady who had fallen! True Team SPIRIT!!!!!!
As I mentioned above, Amantha needs to raise a minimum of $2,900 to run her first marathon in San Francisco! If you can help her out in anyway... no amount is too great or small and will make a world of difference. Her donation website is: http://pages.teamintraining.org/ocie/nikesf08/awriter. Thank you so much in advance!
GO TEAM!
Jason's Update
Hello team:
Jason went in Friday for his monthly Chemo push. He is having an extremely bad weekend because of it. He needs alot more attention and sleep, and told mommy, "I ran out of Gas." We have been spending alot of time holding him, and rubbing his legs which seem to cramp up during the "heavy chemo" weeks. I have to admit, it was nice having a lazy Sunday for a change.The good news is, he will be off the steroids by Wednesday, and back to normal before the weekend, ready to cheer everyone on in San Diego.
Go Team!
Team Jason
(Paul, Diana, Jason and David)
PS: Jason and David turn 4 on July 5th!
Jason went in Friday for his monthly Chemo push. He is having an extremely bad weekend because of it. He needs alot more attention and sleep, and told mommy, "I ran out of Gas." We have been spending alot of time holding him, and rubbing his legs which seem to cramp up during the "heavy chemo" weeks. I have to admit, it was nice having a lazy Sunday for a change.The good news is, he will be off the steroids by Wednesday, and back to normal before the weekend, ready to cheer everyone on in San Diego.
Go Team!
Team Jason
(Paul, Diana, Jason and David)
PS: Jason and David turn 4 on July 5th!
Friday, May 23, 2008
Tuesday May 27th, K-EARTH 101!
My office just found out that we were chosen for Office of the Day for Tuesday, May 27th! We will be airing from 9-9:10am... if you listen during that time... Antonio from the station will be at the office with 40 bagels for us to eat and for us to be on the air!
How Cool is THAT!
My co-worker Enrietta wrote a letter and we were picked... Stay Tuned (literally)
How Cool is THAT!
What an exciting week this next one will be!
Whoo Hoo... CenterStone Communities, MBC Construction, and Woods Group Architects!
My co-worker Enrietta wrote a letter and we were picked... Stay Tuned (literally)
Single Digits
9 days until race day! San Diego weather forecast calls for a Sunny day with Highs at 67 degrees and the Lows at 62 degrees!
I had a great time tap dancing yesterday and enjoyed the sudden rain that occurred in my area! Today has drizzled a bit and tomorrow is expected to ran in the morning! I am hoping it finishes raining before I start running though! Of course my next post will tell you what happened!
I have had so many views on this site and I am so close to hitting 500! I hope the numbers increase a lot before race day!
I do want to let you guys know of my future running/race plans!
I had a great time tap dancing yesterday and enjoyed the sudden rain that occurred in my area! Today has drizzled a bit and tomorrow is expected to ran in the morning! I am hoping it finishes raining before I start running though! Of course my next post will tell you what happened!
I have had so many views on this site and I am so close to hitting 500! I hope the numbers increase a lot before race day!
I do want to let you guys know of my future running/race plans!
- Surf and Sands in Huntington Beach ~ 5K (3.1 miles on the wet sand in July) just for fun!
- Disney Half Marathon ~ August 31, 2008 (Both Gwynne and I are registered)
- Chattanooga, TN "Stump Jump 11 mile trail run" ~ October 4, 2008 (I am registered)
- Long Beach Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day 5K or 10K depends on what is offered... free pumpkin pies to random finishers... please be me! I have tried 2yrs in a row... third times a charm, Right?!?!
- Catalina Trail Marathon ~ November 2008 (TBD depends on my new TNT friends)
- Make Room For Santa 10K ~ December 2008 (my third yr in a row)
- Rock'n'Roll Marathon, Phoenix, AZ~ January 18, 2009 (Pending TNT Winter Mentorship)
- Surf City Half Marathon, HB, CA ~ February 1, 2009 (definitely signing up but waiting until July to see how TNT pans out... may do the full marathon if I am not running Phoenix RNR - this will be my 3rd race in a row here!)
That is as much planning so far, I am going to continue my running and hopefully do more with TNT and the LLS! I love to run and will continue running races but with a more narrow focus on challenging races and not only the 5K or 10K runs! I have done over a dozen of them and 2 half marathons which were hard challenges to overcome! I have the running bug and enjoy my running time! I hope you continue with Melissa Live after June 1st! I feel confident that next Sunday will be a blast and very emotional! Without having knowledge of my personal time for 26.2 miles... the goal is to just finish and if I beat my half marathon time of 2:39 I will feel a great accomplishment for that and will be on the right track for finishing the race in 5 hours or less, but ultimately my goal is to just finish feeling good! I would love to run more marathons and beat my personal time that is achieved next Sunday!
:::GO TEAM:::
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Mileage!
I forgot to mention how I am doing on the training this week, LOL! See where excitement gets me... forgetful!
I ran 4 miles with Coach Paul and we were a little faster yesterday at 10:13 pace! On Tuesday we ran a 10:41 pace! I did complete all my required miles this week as planned, so that is great news! Now just as long as I don't get lost on my 10 mile run this Saturday I will have a total of 24 miles! My right foot has been giving me pain "ball of foot" after my runs this week but during my runs the pain goes away! I did talk to Coach Paul and he told me to get some sole inserts for my shoes! SO I was off to road runner after our chat! I ended up buying my 3rd pair of shoes this year and my first pair of inserts! I also loaded up on Jelly Belly Sport and Shot Bloks for the race and training since I ran out of most of my edible supplies!
I am going to buy a cheap pair of sweats or some sort of clothes to keep me warm while I am waiting for the race to start and I need to get an attachment for my edible food while I am out on the course!
As far as weather goes! We have crazy weather in California! Just the other day it was a heat wave and now we are on flood watch! Thundershowers are expected today - tomorrow and showers are expected on Saturday! If showers do occur than I will run in my oldest pair of shoes that have over 255 miles on them! That means less cushion... I hope it doesn't rain... my feet are already sore!
???Shoes???
It is important to know the miles on your shoes because they should be replaced after 300 miles! So that is why I have so many running shoes now! My second pair purchased just almost exactly one month ago already has over 100 miles on them and those are the ones I am running my race in... with the much needed inserts! I can't wear my new shoes that I bought yesterday because I have to put at least 30 miles on them to be considered "broken in" and next week I am only running 14 more miles before my race! I don't want to put an initial 10 miles on them this Saturday because breaking them in should be gradual and not in a short 1 week period! Coach says that may be why my second pair are causing my feet to hurt and already needing insoles put in! I already shot out the padding inside the shoe!
Well that is my shoe story and my update! I hope I didn't bore you, I thought it was interesting... and for those of you who don't know... I love Microsoft Excel and YES I have a Shoe Mileage spreadsheet!
My honesty kills me, LOL!
I will be pretty busy through the holiday, I will try to post before Tuesday but no guarantees! Have a Great Memorial Day and remember its not about the extra day off of work, but for all of the soldiers who died for our freedom! Say a prayer for our troops still fighting in Iraq and around the world!
Stay Dry!
I ran 4 miles with Coach Paul and we were a little faster yesterday at 10:13 pace! On Tuesday we ran a 10:41 pace! I did complete all my required miles this week as planned, so that is great news! Now just as long as I don't get lost on my 10 mile run this Saturday I will have a total of 24 miles! My right foot has been giving me pain "ball of foot" after my runs this week but during my runs the pain goes away! I did talk to Coach Paul and he told me to get some sole inserts for my shoes! SO I was off to road runner after our chat! I ended up buying my 3rd pair of shoes this year and my first pair of inserts! I also loaded up on Jelly Belly Sport and Shot Bloks for the race and training since I ran out of most of my edible supplies!
I am going to buy a cheap pair of sweats or some sort of clothes to keep me warm while I am waiting for the race to start and I need to get an attachment for my edible food while I am out on the course!
As far as weather goes! We have crazy weather in California! Just the other day it was a heat wave and now we are on flood watch! Thundershowers are expected today - tomorrow and showers are expected on Saturday! If showers do occur than I will run in my oldest pair of shoes that have over 255 miles on them! That means less cushion... I hope it doesn't rain... my feet are already sore!
???Shoes???
It is important to know the miles on your shoes because they should be replaced after 300 miles! So that is why I have so many running shoes now! My second pair purchased just almost exactly one month ago already has over 100 miles on them and those are the ones I am running my race in... with the much needed inserts! I can't wear my new shoes that I bought yesterday because I have to put at least 30 miles on them to be considered "broken in" and next week I am only running 14 more miles before my race! I don't want to put an initial 10 miles on them this Saturday because breaking them in should be gradual and not in a short 1 week period! Coach says that may be why my second pair are causing my feet to hurt and already needing insoles put in! I already shot out the padding inside the shoe!
Well that is my shoe story and my update! I hope I didn't bore you, I thought it was interesting... and for those of you who don't know... I love Microsoft Excel and YES I have a Shoe Mileage spreadsheet!
My honesty kills me, LOL!
I will be pretty busy through the holiday, I will try to post before Tuesday but no guarantees! Have a Great Memorial Day and remember its not about the extra day off of work, but for all of the soldiers who died for our freedom! Say a prayer for our troops still fighting in Iraq and around the world!
Stay Dry!
RACE INFORMATION
In 10 days (Sunday, June 1st I will be running my race for a cure of 26.2 miles! The red lines on the map is our course!
In order to facilitate 21,000+ participants they put you in pace groups of approx. 1,000 people per corral. I was originally placed in corral 18 of 21 (?) I think their is 21 corrals :) As many of you who follow my blog know... my pace has improved over the last 4 months of training! I am going to switch my corral to 13 at the Expo next Saturday!
I will be activating my race chip at the Expo as well! This is the most advanced timing fore events. The chip is attached to your shoe via tie wraps so when you cross certain marks on the path it will automatically record your time. That means you can see my progress live! That is right, Melissa LIVE is going to actually be LIVE and not virtually LIVE! All you have to do is go to Live Results and you can follow my progress online! My progress will be recorded at the 5k, 10k, 10-mile, 13.1 mile and 20 mile marks with updates to the LiveResults site every 60 seconds. Just visit http://listserver2.eliteracing.com/t/5710/1574323/242/0/?u=aHR0cDovL3d3dy5ybnJtYXJhdGhvbi5jb20vaG9tZS5odG1s&x=285ca04d and click on the LiveResults bug on the home page during the race.
If that isn't entertaining enough, NBC will have a Finish Line CamOn-Demand where you can watch me cross the Finish Line! For the first time, NBCsandiego.com will be providing "Finish Line Cam On-Demand." I will definitely being going to NBCsandiego.com after the race to see my finish too, of course it will be a rerun, LOL!
More things can be found online at http://www.rnrmarathon.com/home.html If any of you are local and want to volunteer, their is a special place on the site that allows you to become a volunteer!
Next Saturday morning I will be running 2 easy miles and then Jeremy and I are heading to San Diego for the Expo! This is where I will get all my race day goodies and then at 5pm we will be at the TNT pasta party! I have to be up at 3ish on Sunday so I plan on watching a movie and getting to bed as early as possible!
I am SO EXCITED!!!!!
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Reflection
11 Days to go!
I think my body is still in shock with the 3:45am thing! See yesterday's post! This morning at 1:53am to be exact, I woke up... thirsty! I then began to think and my brain would not shut off! By 2:41am I went to the freezer and put an ice pack on my pillow too cool the back of my neck. That sometimes relaxes me and I can go back to sleep! It must have worked because the next time I woke up, it was almost 7am and his alarm clocks were going off! Jeremy accidently elbowed my left eye and broke a drinking glass this morning... so it was eventful, to say the least!
I used that hour to pray for others and think about my race! The cause is so great and very emotional! To my knowledge, I have no family history of Lymphoma or Leukemia but I have met people who do have these types of cancers and their stories touch my heart and make me feel like I should do more!
I have done more! I joined the bone marrow registry, signed up for donate life California (pink dot on drivers license), and begun donating blood (hopefully regularly)! It brings such joy to me to know that I have helped someone else!
Cancer unfortunately lurk our family history, but I do think that most people nowadays have it in theirs too!
Back to my training! I feel like I am ready and my body is being stubborn with the continued training. Although I am getting the required miles in... but no extras, LOL! I ran 6 miles with Coach Paul and Gwynne came out to walk with his wife Diana and other TNTers! After the exercise was over, Gwynne and I went to my place: hung out and had Munchies Pizza until almost 10pm! Jeremy came home around 9pm and grabbed a bite to eat before going out to swing dance!
Today it will be Coach Paul and I, as we run 4 miles! Once I am done with these 4 miles this afternoon, I hope to watch a movie and relax! My tap class is tomorrow and I want to let my feet have a break! Then Friday I am resting... I think my dad and I are going to the movies!
Saturday is 10 miles at Heritage park (our normal meeting place). I expect most of the participants will be at training this Sat, since we are having our send off meeting that day!
The send off meeting gets us prepared for the race event! This Sat. will be our last meeting before the event! Anxiety sets in more and more when the thought comes to mind! We will be getting our race day shirts and decorating them with puffy paint! We will put our names on the front of the shirt so people can cheer us on and I will put my honored teammate Jason's name on my shirt too! I have a reminderband/wristbands for some angels and fighters that will fill my right arm!
Angels: Evan Cousineau 9yrs old (ALD), Christian Barker 14yrs old (ALL), McKenna Johnson 10 yrs old (ALCL)
Fighters: Jason Cooney 3 1/2yrs old (ALL), Coleman Larson 4yrs old (Medulloblastoma)
As I go through the miles in 11 days I will be thinking of many more kids who I have come to know via caringbridge and carepages.com... their are so many... unfortunately it could fill up my shirt and then some! Thank you all for this inspiration to find a cure!
I think my body is still in shock with the 3:45am thing! See yesterday's post! This morning at 1:53am to be exact, I woke up... thirsty! I then began to think and my brain would not shut off! By 2:41am I went to the freezer and put an ice pack on my pillow too cool the back of my neck. That sometimes relaxes me and I can go back to sleep! It must have worked because the next time I woke up, it was almost 7am and his alarm clocks were going off! Jeremy accidently elbowed my left eye and broke a drinking glass this morning... so it was eventful, to say the least!
I used that hour to pray for others and think about my race! The cause is so great and very emotional! To my knowledge, I have no family history of Lymphoma or Leukemia but I have met people who do have these types of cancers and their stories touch my heart and make me feel like I should do more!
I have done more! I joined the bone marrow registry, signed up for donate life California (pink dot on drivers license), and begun donating blood (hopefully regularly)! It brings such joy to me to know that I have helped someone else!
Cancer unfortunately lurk our family history, but I do think that most people nowadays have it in theirs too!
Back to my training! I feel like I am ready and my body is being stubborn with the continued training. Although I am getting the required miles in... but no extras, LOL! I ran 6 miles with Coach Paul and Gwynne came out to walk with his wife Diana and other TNTers! After the exercise was over, Gwynne and I went to my place: hung out and had Munchies Pizza until almost 10pm! Jeremy came home around 9pm and grabbed a bite to eat before going out to swing dance!
Today it will be Coach Paul and I, as we run 4 miles! Once I am done with these 4 miles this afternoon, I hope to watch a movie and relax! My tap class is tomorrow and I want to let my feet have a break! Then Friday I am resting... I think my dad and I are going to the movies!
Saturday is 10 miles at Heritage park (our normal meeting place). I expect most of the participants will be at training this Sat, since we are having our send off meeting that day!
The send off meeting gets us prepared for the race event! This Sat. will be our last meeting before the event! Anxiety sets in more and more when the thought comes to mind! We will be getting our race day shirts and decorating them with puffy paint! We will put our names on the front of the shirt so people can cheer us on and I will put my honored teammate Jason's name on my shirt too! I have a reminderband/wristbands for some angels and fighters that will fill my right arm!
Angels: Evan Cousineau 9yrs old (ALD), Christian Barker 14yrs old (ALL), McKenna Johnson 10 yrs old (ALCL)
Fighters: Jason Cooney 3 1/2yrs old (ALL), Coleman Larson 4yrs old (Medulloblastoma)
As I go through the miles in 11 days I will be thinking of many more kids who I have come to know via caringbridge and carepages.com... their are so many... unfortunately it could fill up my shirt and then some! Thank you all for this inspiration to find a cure!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
3:45am!
How about that heading!!!!!! Today marks 12 days until race day, anxiety is setting in! I wish the race was tomorrow... just to get rid of this feeling of anticipation! The only thing I am not ready for is on race day we have to meet in the lobby at 3:45am! I usually wake up in the middle of the night around 3am from my bladder but then I am fast asleep after that, LOL! That won't be the case on June 1st!
I am going to be praying for sleep that evening! I hate alarm clocks and anyone who knows me can second that notion! Although I will be bringing my alarm clock to assure my waking up at 3:30am occurs, argh! I am so not a morning person or a night person! I am solar powered and I don't recall any solar activity at 3:45am!
Yesterday was a bit cooler than the last few days! I ended up doing my miles along the beach (the coolest spot I could think of)! It was 75 degrees and clear, a perfect beach day! I did receive a compliment, I think, while I was out running!?! A stranger (man and his wife/girlfriend) were riding their bikes along the bike path that I was running on and spoke to me in passing. He said "keep on running"! I replied with a giggle and kept on running! When my Garmin watch said 4 miles, I was done and stopped running and walked over to my car! Not even 2 parking spaces away were that couple who passed me on their bikes! They told me that while they were out on riding on the beach, I was the only one who wasn't wearing headphones in my ears, so he thought to give me an encouraging boost to keep going! I thought it was cool that perfect strangers told me of their observation!
My reply to them was: I can't run with things in my ears and I like to know of my surroundings since I am alone and a female! The woman he was with agreed with me on that and they both said that I must have worked twice as hard as they did. I told them, "exercise is good, no matter how you do it!" I don't think my running 4 miles was any better than their bike ride! Any exercise burns calories... and that is all that matters for everyone! They were cute and made my day!
I was pretty stressed out at work and while I was stressed I thought about running the tension out of my body! That was another reason for doing my 4 miles yesterday!
Today is 6 miles and Gwynne will be joining me with the TNT gang! It is cloudy today and that equates to cooler weather! It should be the nicest run we will have ran in a while!
Have a Happy Tuesday, watch for my hump day post!
Melissa
I am going to be praying for sleep that evening! I hate alarm clocks and anyone who knows me can second that notion! Although I will be bringing my alarm clock to assure my waking up at 3:30am occurs, argh! I am so not a morning person or a night person! I am solar powered and I don't recall any solar activity at 3:45am!
Yesterday was a bit cooler than the last few days! I ended up doing my miles along the beach (the coolest spot I could think of)! It was 75 degrees and clear, a perfect beach day! I did receive a compliment, I think, while I was out running!?! A stranger (man and his wife/girlfriend) were riding their bikes along the bike path that I was running on and spoke to me in passing. He said "keep on running"! I replied with a giggle and kept on running! When my Garmin watch said 4 miles, I was done and stopped running and walked over to my car! Not even 2 parking spaces away were that couple who passed me on their bikes! They told me that while they were out on riding on the beach, I was the only one who wasn't wearing headphones in my ears, so he thought to give me an encouraging boost to keep going! I thought it was cool that perfect strangers told me of their observation!
My reply to them was: I can't run with things in my ears and I like to know of my surroundings since I am alone and a female! The woman he was with agreed with me on that and they both said that I must have worked twice as hard as they did. I told them, "exercise is good, no matter how you do it!" I don't think my running 4 miles was any better than their bike ride! Any exercise burns calories... and that is all that matters for everyone! They were cute and made my day!
I was pretty stressed out at work and while I was stressed I thought about running the tension out of my body! That was another reason for doing my 4 miles yesterday!
Today is 6 miles and Gwynne will be joining me with the TNT gang! It is cloudy today and that equates to cooler weather! It should be the nicest run we will have ran in a while!
Have a Happy Tuesday, watch for my hump day post!
Melissa
Monday, May 19, 2008
Short Cut!
13 Days to go!
Saturday was HOT to say the least! Not very many participants came out to training and those who did... well not many actually completed the full 14 miles that day! We started our training at Hicks Park and we normally meet at Heritage Park! So the new site for the week and the heat made it hard for people to come out and train, I guess?
My foot still had some pain when I woke up on Saturday morning and I talked to Dr. Bakeman who is not only a doctor but also a participant. So before I ran... he checked out my foot! I was told that the pain was due to my shoe laces being to tight and my big toe was taking the brunt of the impact when I ran causing the joint to hurt! He said I was good to go on running, so my prayers were answered!
Before we started our morning run, the temp had already reached mid 70s and many of us had to use a restroom! Well this new park doesn't open the restrooms until 9am and it was only 6:55am! Our head coach asked for volunteers to take people to a nearby Starbucks so we can take care of business before the run! So I volunteered and took 3 teammates to Starbucks! Unfortunately when we arrived back to Hicks Park he had already begun talking about the course and an error that was made on one of the maps. So I listened carefully and heard what to watch out for with the error! The error (turn on Culver not Yale) was said to half marathoners only as they were doing 8 miles that day, while marathoners were scheduled for 14 miles (that didn't apply)! That was information that I missed!
So as he told everyone the error and I missed the half marathon intro! We headed out for our run! Caroleena and I were a team for the run. We usually start out at the same pace and then she breaks up with someone more her pace, like Megan (TNT participant) and I run with Kim (TNT participant) who is more my pace! Both Megan and Kim were not their on Sat. so Caroleena and I ran together! When we got to the ERROR destination, we turned on Culver! This put us at Hicks park at 8 miles! Whoops!!!! Coach told us that if we continue to head straight and make a few adjustments then we would be able to make up 4 more miles but that would put us short by 2 miles for the day! I was COOL with that since it was already mid 80s at that point! That is how I made a short cut!
When we got to the 10 mile hydration stop, Caroleena was done! Her knee was bothering her and it was HOT! So I ran the last 2 miles alone! It was the hardest 2 miles ever! I wanted to be done too, but part of me just kept going!
After that I went to a teammates fundraiser "Spa Day" and then took my much needed nap after a much needed shower! Later that evening, Jeremy and I went to Disney!
Sunday came and we slept until about 10am and decided that it was too HOT for the beach! So we went to a really HOT Swap Meet instead! I then met up with my friend Gwynne and her husband Joe and we had lunch while watching the new Narnia movie... when the movie was over I rushed myself to my bowling league, which we one every game! This could put us 1st place in the league! I also bowled my season HIGH game of 140! I hope that gets HIGHer too!
When that was done, I went grocery shopping, home, and to sleep!
I feel well rested and although it is still HOT outside... every day seems a little cooler!
I have so much to do when I get off work today and I am hoping that it cools off so I will have the energy to my tasks! I plan on running 4 miles before my tap class today and then after tap... I have some much needed laundry to attend to!
On a side note! I have booked airline tickets to go to TN and visit family this October! We will be arriving in Chattanooga on Oct. 3 and on Oct. 4th I will run my first Trail Race in Chattanooga! The coolest part about this is the starting/finishing point is at my 2nd cousin Kaitlyn school! I think I will have a bunch of cheering family at the finish line! This is only an 11 mile run but my cousin has informed me that it is very hilly so I am sure although the miles are short, the hills will make up for it!
I am so excited and can't wait for the 2nd annual family reunion to take place before my 29th birthday! We will be coming back home in the early afternoon on Sunday, Oct. 12th!
Love you ALL
Melissa
Saturday was HOT to say the least! Not very many participants came out to training and those who did... well not many actually completed the full 14 miles that day! We started our training at Hicks Park and we normally meet at Heritage Park! So the new site for the week and the heat made it hard for people to come out and train, I guess?
My foot still had some pain when I woke up on Saturday morning and I talked to Dr. Bakeman who is not only a doctor but also a participant. So before I ran... he checked out my foot! I was told that the pain was due to my shoe laces being to tight and my big toe was taking the brunt of the impact when I ran causing the joint to hurt! He said I was good to go on running, so my prayers were answered!
Before we started our morning run, the temp had already reached mid 70s and many of us had to use a restroom! Well this new park doesn't open the restrooms until 9am and it was only 6:55am! Our head coach asked for volunteers to take people to a nearby Starbucks so we can take care of business before the run! So I volunteered and took 3 teammates to Starbucks! Unfortunately when we arrived back to Hicks Park he had already begun talking about the course and an error that was made on one of the maps. So I listened carefully and heard what to watch out for with the error! The error (turn on Culver not Yale) was said to half marathoners only as they were doing 8 miles that day, while marathoners were scheduled for 14 miles (that didn't apply)! That was information that I missed!
So as he told everyone the error and I missed the half marathon intro! We headed out for our run! Caroleena and I were a team for the run. We usually start out at the same pace and then she breaks up with someone more her pace, like Megan (TNT participant) and I run with Kim (TNT participant) who is more my pace! Both Megan and Kim were not their on Sat. so Caroleena and I ran together! When we got to the ERROR destination, we turned on Culver! This put us at Hicks park at 8 miles! Whoops!!!! Coach told us that if we continue to head straight and make a few adjustments then we would be able to make up 4 more miles but that would put us short by 2 miles for the day! I was COOL with that since it was already mid 80s at that point! That is how I made a short cut!
When we got to the 10 mile hydration stop, Caroleena was done! Her knee was bothering her and it was HOT! So I ran the last 2 miles alone! It was the hardest 2 miles ever! I wanted to be done too, but part of me just kept going!
After that I went to a teammates fundraiser "Spa Day" and then took my much needed nap after a much needed shower! Later that evening, Jeremy and I went to Disney!
Sunday came and we slept until about 10am and decided that it was too HOT for the beach! So we went to a really HOT Swap Meet instead! I then met up with my friend Gwynne and her husband Joe and we had lunch while watching the new Narnia movie... when the movie was over I rushed myself to my bowling league, which we one every game! This could put us 1st place in the league! I also bowled my season HIGH game of 140! I hope that gets HIGHer too!
When that was done, I went grocery shopping, home, and to sleep!
I feel well rested and although it is still HOT outside... every day seems a little cooler!
I have so much to do when I get off work today and I am hoping that it cools off so I will have the energy to my tasks! I plan on running 4 miles before my tap class today and then after tap... I have some much needed laundry to attend to!
On a side note! I have booked airline tickets to go to TN and visit family this October! We will be arriving in Chattanooga on Oct. 3 and on Oct. 4th I will run my first Trail Race in Chattanooga! The coolest part about this is the starting/finishing point is at my 2nd cousin Kaitlyn school! I think I will have a bunch of cheering family at the finish line! This is only an 11 mile run but my cousin has informed me that it is very hilly so I am sure although the miles are short, the hills will make up for it!
I am so excited and can't wait for the 2nd annual family reunion to take place before my 29th birthday! We will be coming back home in the early afternoon on Sunday, Oct. 12th!
Love you ALL
Melissa
Friday, May 16, 2008
Lots to Say... be prepared to read!
Happy Friday... 16 more days til the big race!
I am getting really anxious, excited, and nervous... for this day to come!
I will be short 6 miles this week from the goal of 30 and that is if everything goes well today! What do I mean by that??? Well yesterday my right foot (dominant foot) began to have some soreness... like bruising without a visible bruise. It is only on my big toe and hurts when I walk from the toe to the ball of my foot! So last night I called Coach Paul and he said to ice it as much as possible yesterday and today and stay off of it until tomorrow.... that is if the pain goes away so I can run tomorrow!
I am praying for no pain! Yesterday before I called Coach Paul I did however go to my tap class and boy was that hard to do when your foot is in pain! I did it though!
The verdict is that with all the extra running and dancing it is sore from being over used! Other than that I am good to go! It is feeling better now but not 100% so we will see what tomorrow morning brings.... to run-or-not to run! We are doing 14miles in the HOT weather, after that I am going to have a spa day, and Disney at night! Hey, I think it is even my turn to pick the restaurant for dinner tomorrow night with my hubby, hmmmm... decisions, decisions!
On another note this morning was a bit different than every other morning. My in-laws had a full house! It was my sister-in-law, brother-in-law, me, Jeremy, and his parents! We all felt like it was the best thing to do this morning because one of their dogs (violet) is having a bunch of soreness in her belly and she is 16 yrs old. She has been getting water when she has the energy to get up but unfortunately she has given up on eating... the vet hasn't diagnosed the problem but we don't know how much longer she will be in the Pires Family and we all went to see her and comfort my in-laws as big decisions may need to be made regarding treatment!
On a VERY cool and HAPPY note I have to tell you a short little story... visit my post titled BLESSED for more background on the story! On Tuesday, I donated blood for the first time! I have tried to donate for Evan Cousineau's Mom on her 45th birthday bash and my iron was the cause for refusal... I was at 12.4 and it needed to be 12.5 or more! I was disappointed but that wasn't my first rejection in the blood donation process. The first time I went for my mom when she was in the hospital and they told me I was anemic, which means I was really low and they told me to take iron supplements... Well this Tuesday was different. I was donating for a fellow member of my community... and he is 3yrs old and named Corey whose blood type is (A+)! I called the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles where the blood bank from Tuesday took all the blood because that is his new home for about a month as he undergoes a stem cell transplant! Back to the call I made... I called to find out my blood type.... and I found out I am a perfect match for him (A+)! That so made my day!!!! When he needs blood, my blood will be at his disposal! During this process he will be dependant on blood transfusions, hence the blood drive! Also on his caringbridge page his mom told all the readers that it was a HUGE success with over 100 pints of blood being donated and mine was in there! By the way my iron was 13.1 that time... the same number equals the distance of a half marathon and I will be doing a full marathon 26.2 in 2 weeks and 2 days!
I hope I can donate again... next time I hope it is in Memory of Evan... a member of my team in Heaven!
Tonight should be fun! I have had more than enough sleep the last few days to make up for tonight! My dad and I are going to a concert, hosted at the Hyatt in Newport Beach! Today is the kickoff for the Jazz Festival Summer Concert Series and tonight's concert is my favorite Sax and horn player Mindi Abair! This is an early Father's Day present! Happy Father's Day Dad!!!! Before the event we will have a buffet dinner at a restaurant in the Hyatt! It will be a blast and we have waited a year for this experience to come again! OUR third in a row to concert to see Mindi Abair...
I hope tomorrow I have no pain in my foot so I can run! It is supposed to be 91 degrees tomorrow and the mileage is 14 miles :} wish me luck and keep me in your prayers! I have been hydrating since Wednesday!
Stay cool!
Love ya,
Mel
I am getting really anxious, excited, and nervous... for this day to come!
I will be short 6 miles this week from the goal of 30 and that is if everything goes well today! What do I mean by that??? Well yesterday my right foot (dominant foot) began to have some soreness... like bruising without a visible bruise. It is only on my big toe and hurts when I walk from the toe to the ball of my foot! So last night I called Coach Paul and he said to ice it as much as possible yesterday and today and stay off of it until tomorrow.... that is if the pain goes away so I can run tomorrow!
I am praying for no pain! Yesterday before I called Coach Paul I did however go to my tap class and boy was that hard to do when your foot is in pain! I did it though!
The verdict is that with all the extra running and dancing it is sore from being over used! Other than that I am good to go! It is feeling better now but not 100% so we will see what tomorrow morning brings.... to run-or-not to run! We are doing 14miles in the HOT weather, after that I am going to have a spa day, and Disney at night! Hey, I think it is even my turn to pick the restaurant for dinner tomorrow night with my hubby, hmmmm... decisions, decisions!
On another note this morning was a bit different than every other morning. My in-laws had a full house! It was my sister-in-law, brother-in-law, me, Jeremy, and his parents! We all felt like it was the best thing to do this morning because one of their dogs (violet) is having a bunch of soreness in her belly and she is 16 yrs old. She has been getting water when she has the energy to get up but unfortunately she has given up on eating... the vet hasn't diagnosed the problem but we don't know how much longer she will be in the Pires Family and we all went to see her and comfort my in-laws as big decisions may need to be made regarding treatment!
On a VERY cool and HAPPY note I have to tell you a short little story... visit my post titled BLESSED for more background on the story! On Tuesday, I donated blood for the first time! I have tried to donate for Evan Cousineau's Mom on her 45th birthday bash and my iron was the cause for refusal... I was at 12.4 and it needed to be 12.5 or more! I was disappointed but that wasn't my first rejection in the blood donation process. The first time I went for my mom when she was in the hospital and they told me I was anemic, which means I was really low and they told me to take iron supplements... Well this Tuesday was different. I was donating for a fellow member of my community... and he is 3yrs old and named Corey whose blood type is (A+)! I called the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles where the blood bank from Tuesday took all the blood because that is his new home for about a month as he undergoes a stem cell transplant! Back to the call I made... I called to find out my blood type.... and I found out I am a perfect match for him (A+)! That so made my day!!!! When he needs blood, my blood will be at his disposal! During this process he will be dependant on blood transfusions, hence the blood drive! Also on his caringbridge page his mom told all the readers that it was a HUGE success with over 100 pints of blood being donated and mine was in there! By the way my iron was 13.1 that time... the same number equals the distance of a half marathon and I will be doing a full marathon 26.2 in 2 weeks and 2 days!
I hope I can donate again... next time I hope it is in Memory of Evan... a member of my team in Heaven!
Tonight should be fun! I have had more than enough sleep the last few days to make up for tonight! My dad and I are going to a concert, hosted at the Hyatt in Newport Beach! Today is the kickoff for the Jazz Festival Summer Concert Series and tonight's concert is my favorite Sax and horn player Mindi Abair! This is an early Father's Day present! Happy Father's Day Dad!!!! Before the event we will have a buffet dinner at a restaurant in the Hyatt! It will be a blast and we have waited a year for this experience to come again! OUR third in a row to concert to see Mindi Abair...
I hope tomorrow I have no pain in my foot so I can run! It is supposed to be 91 degrees tomorrow and the mileage is 14 miles :} wish me luck and keep me in your prayers! I have been hydrating since Wednesday!
Stay cool!
Love ya,
Mel
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Well Rested
Rock N Roll Marathon Countdown
Days to Go: 18 Days
Today’s Temperature in San Diego: 68°F 20°C Mostly Cloudy
Clarification on my total funds raised! We actually raised $2,802.24! My goal was $2,800! WHOO HOO! Thank you for your support!
WOW, I haven't had such a restful day in a LONG time! After work I went to ZPizza and ordered my favorite "Mexican" pizza and then I went home to watch a movie. I am a member of netflix and AMEN to no late charges, RIGHT? Well I have had this movie since March 5th called "things we lost in the fire" I thought it was boring and long... but then again it was a 2 hr movie and my attention span is 1 1/2 hrs tops! So after that movie ended, Jeremy came home and we chatted for a little bit! He went dancing and I went to sleep!
During the movie though I had a pleasant conversation with my Bestest Friend Sally! I actually call her my sister because we have been so close for so long! She was the best Maid of Honor I could have ever hoped for too! Don't get me wrong I have a Real sister and two step sisters, but Sally is very special to me!
Since I haven't ran since Monday, nothing really to report on that area... I have been a little lightheaded off and on since my blood donation... I guess a pint of blood can make a difference to how you feel, LOL! I plan on running 6 miles today and then 6 more tomorrow after tap!
Have a great hump day!
Days to Go: 18 Days
Today’s Temperature in San Diego: 68°F 20°C Mostly Cloudy
Clarification on my total funds raised! We actually raised $2,802.24! My goal was $2,800! WHOO HOO! Thank you for your support!
WOW, I haven't had such a restful day in a LONG time! After work I went to ZPizza and ordered my favorite "Mexican" pizza and then I went home to watch a movie. I am a member of netflix and AMEN to no late charges, RIGHT? Well I have had this movie since March 5th called "things we lost in the fire" I thought it was boring and long... but then again it was a 2 hr movie and my attention span is 1 1/2 hrs tops! So after that movie ended, Jeremy came home and we chatted for a little bit! He went dancing and I went to sleep!
During the movie though I had a pleasant conversation with my Bestest Friend Sally! I actually call her my sister because we have been so close for so long! She was the best Maid of Honor I could have ever hoped for too! Don't get me wrong I have a Real sister and two step sisters, but Sally is very special to me!
Since I haven't ran since Monday, nothing really to report on that area... I have been a little lightheaded off and on since my blood donation... I guess a pint of blood can make a difference to how you feel, LOL! I plan on running 6 miles today and then 6 more tomorrow after tap!
Have a great hump day!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Blessed!
Today's plans changed! I am happy to announce that today marks the first time I was able to donate blood! My iron level was at 13.1! Of all numbers I thought that this one was really special... that is the distance of a half marathon! As a first time blood donor I feel both blessed and honored to know that I am helping to save the lives of others in need! I did feel "Punk" after donating though... for those of you who don't know what "punk" feels like (dizzy, lightheaded, personal heat wave, and my hearing was not in focus) that is usually how I feel when my blood sugar is drastically low too! I have passed out from that... 3 months before I got married but today as I felt that coming on... registered nurses were their to help me out! If you can count one, two, three that is what it took for me to feel normal again: One pack of Cheese It's, Two ice packs, and Three Capri Sun Juices! Then I was back to work!
My 1hr lunch turned into a 3hr lunch, but I was able to help save a life and that makes all the difference!
Tomorrow I will resume my schedule and I hope to continue blood donation every 2 months as they require you to wait that long to donate again!
Today's blood donation was to help a three year old boy Corey out! I found the flyer at my local 24 hr fitness and signed up! To learn more about little Corey visit, http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/prayforcorey his parents brought him to the church where this was taking place and he was in good spirits for being hungry due to a later doctors appointment to have an MRI done this afternoon! He is a cutie! You can go on the site and send the family wishes!
Tomorrow is 6 miles outside somewhere (back bay or mile square park) and then on Thursday I will run another 6 miles at the gym after my tap class... I hate the gym but this time it is going to be different as Corey is getting admitted to the hospital on Thursday to get him ready for his stem cell transplant! So while I am at the gym I will enjoy that time as I think about Corey and all that he is going through and how I was able to make a difference and give this cute little boy that lives in Huntington Beach HOPE! Even if my blood type doesn't match him... I know so many other people may need it and it will be put to good use!
I will miss running with my TNT gang today but I will enjoy some R & R movie time tonight!
:::Blessings:::
My 1hr lunch turned into a 3hr lunch, but I was able to help save a life and that makes all the difference!
Tomorrow I will resume my schedule and I hope to continue blood donation every 2 months as they require you to wait that long to donate again!
Today's blood donation was to help a three year old boy Corey out! I found the flyer at my local 24 hr fitness and signed up! To learn more about little Corey visit, http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/prayforcorey his parents brought him to the church where this was taking place and he was in good spirits for being hungry due to a later doctors appointment to have an MRI done this afternoon! He is a cutie! You can go on the site and send the family wishes!
Tomorrow is 6 miles outside somewhere (back bay or mile square park) and then on Thursday I will run another 6 miles at the gym after my tap class... I hate the gym but this time it is going to be different as Corey is getting admitted to the hospital on Thursday to get him ready for his stem cell transplant! So while I am at the gym I will enjoy that time as I think about Corey and all that he is going through and how I was able to make a difference and give this cute little boy that lives in Huntington Beach HOPE! Even if my blood type doesn't match him... I know so many other people may need it and it will be put to good use!
I will miss running with my TNT gang today but I will enjoy some R & R movie time tonight!
:::Blessings:::
Teens
I am now in the teens until race day... 19 more days to go!
This week should be a little easier as I am on the tapering down part on our running schedule. We are only running 30 miles this week! That is 10 less than last week! I started my weekly training early! Yesterday was supposed to be a rest day and if you read my blog from yesterday you would know that rest wasn't really on the menu until later that evening!
I ran 4 miles yesterday before my tap class and it wasn't as easy as I thought it would be! About a half mile before the 4 mile mark my middle toe on my left foot started really hurting! It felt like I had a blister at the bend of my toe... Well I went to my car to check it out as I ran through the pain... NO BLISTER... it was a little red but that was it! I am puzzled at what the cause and I pray that it doesn't happen again!
I am running 6 miles today with the TNT crew at Back Bay! Gwynne has said she is joining us, but is unsure if she is running or walking the miles! I won't tell you why yet! Waiting for her OK to announce the news! SO anyway that is my plan of attack for today! I owe her dinner but since she is bogged down with school work and test prepping we will postpone it until another day and not today!!!! Why do I owe her? Well, she is so sweet! Read the post from yesterday for more info... (she woke up super early on Sat for me and worked for several hours at the water stop at mile 11!) The least I can do is feed her some good food!
The other person I owe is my mom! She was Gwynne's partner in crime on Sat. (the day before Mother's Day... I made her work) and early to boot! So I owe her too!!! I didn't get to spend Mother's Day with my mom... but I am planning something special for her and I to do after my big race weekend! It will be a Mom's day with her daughter :)~ I think it will take place on June 7th because I have my race on June 1st and a bridal shower for my soon to be sister-in-law on the 14th to also plan for!
Busy is my new middle name!
Last night I told you I was planning on resting and had planned on watching a movie... well that fell through, LOL! I rested alright... just my eyes were shut and my dreams were the movie! Maybe tonight I can keep my eyes open to actually watch a movie before I make my own (in my dreams)!
Thanks for checking in on me! I will post more tomorrow... until then :::PEACE:::
This week should be a little easier as I am on the tapering down part on our running schedule. We are only running 30 miles this week! That is 10 less than last week! I started my weekly training early! Yesterday was supposed to be a rest day and if you read my blog from yesterday you would know that rest wasn't really on the menu until later that evening!
I ran 4 miles yesterday before my tap class and it wasn't as easy as I thought it would be! About a half mile before the 4 mile mark my middle toe on my left foot started really hurting! It felt like I had a blister at the bend of my toe... Well I went to my car to check it out as I ran through the pain... NO BLISTER... it was a little red but that was it! I am puzzled at what the cause and I pray that it doesn't happen again!
I am running 6 miles today with the TNT crew at Back Bay! Gwynne has said she is joining us, but is unsure if she is running or walking the miles! I won't tell you why yet! Waiting for her OK to announce the news! SO anyway that is my plan of attack for today! I owe her dinner but since she is bogged down with school work and test prepping we will postpone it until another day and not today!!!! Why do I owe her? Well, she is so sweet! Read the post from yesterday for more info... (she woke up super early on Sat for me and worked for several hours at the water stop at mile 11!) The least I can do is feed her some good food!
The other person I owe is my mom! She was Gwynne's partner in crime on Sat. (the day before Mother's Day... I made her work) and early to boot! So I owe her too!!! I didn't get to spend Mother's Day with my mom... but I am planning something special for her and I to do after my big race weekend! It will be a Mom's day with her daughter :)~ I think it will take place on June 7th because I have my race on June 1st and a bridal shower for my soon to be sister-in-law on the 14th to also plan for!
Busy is my new middle name!
Last night I told you I was planning on resting and had planned on watching a movie... well that fell through, LOL! I rested alright... just my eyes were shut and my dreams were the movie! Maybe tonight I can keep my eyes open to actually watch a movie before I make my own (in my dreams)!
Thanks for checking in on me! I will post more tomorrow... until then :::PEACE:::
Monday, May 12, 2008
Happy belated Mother's Day...
to all you mom's out there and Happy Monday!
Less than 3 weeks until race day! Actually 20 More days to go, but whose counting!!!!!!!
I completed 40 miles last week, Yikes! Never did I think that I could possibly accomplish that in one week, EVER! But guess what... I will be doing 40 miles on race week and I know I can do it NOW!
Saturday's 20-mile run was on a new course most of the time... the course name is double loop! I have to say that the first loop was very pretty and had nice scenery... the second loop was completely opposite! I do have to thank two wonderful people for helping me/the team out this Saturday! I asked if they would volunteer to help with the water stops and they got a lot of compliments from everyone who stopped by their Mile 11 Water Stop! THANK YOU Gwynne and Mom for doing that for all of us! They were absolutely GREAT!
Have you ever heard of runners say they hit a wall? Well this Saturday I felt the wall hitting! Hitting a wall is when you think you can't go any further but then when you pass that feeling and keep continuing you find that you DID IT! That was me from mile 18-19! When we passed an area that said Mile 17 I thought I could do this... but then we never saw Mile 18 or 19 marked and knew that the light at the end of the tunnel was once we saw the 5-Freeway! Since it wasn't marked we had no idea how much further... it felt like FOREVER and when we FINALLY saw the freeway... we all screamed of excitement and new that we COULD finish this run! It almost put me and the other 5 people I was running with into tears! That is hitting the wall!
One of the ladies who was running with us "Stephanie" said it was a great accomplishment to be running with us because we were fast! I don't really consider myself fast... so I thought that was cool and a great compliment! She did GREAT too! We ran for 3:50 minutes that day and completed OUR first 20 mile run... that equals 11:30/pace per mile... I don't think that was fast but I wasn't about speed on Sat... it was only about finishing! We did walk some and stopped at all 3 water stops... I played Yahtzee as it was the game offered to break up our miles! We also ate a bunch of snacks that was available on the course! It was a lot of fun and I am so proud of myself for accomplishing with great people around me! Jason (my honored teammate) and his brother David cheered us on at the Mile 16 water stop!
Their is so much that had happened I think I could put on 5 or 6 blogs for ALL of my experiences! It was just amazing and I am in awe of how I feel after completing that challenge!
To sum what could be a VERY long post... we were tricked on the course! At mile 15 the chalk mark said... 4 miles to go! We kept running and wondering where our Mile 16 water stop was or if they forgot to put it out!?! Well when Megan and Carolena looked at the map... it said we were at mile 15 and not 16 as that would be 4 miles to go! We were all just trying to push to mile 16 for a break... that felt like a long mile!
At mile 12 Jeremy called me to inform me that some worker was parked in my parking spot and let me know that I could park in his spot, if needed! I think it was his way of venting at a frustrating thing for him... NOT something I really was concerned about at that point because my main concern was finishing 8 more miles with my friend Kim at my side. Also at that point Kim had hit her challenge with a pulled muscle in her right calf. She and I walked and tried to run through it but she was SO frustrated and I stuck with her... trying to help her out with stop and stretching as much as she needed! I have to admit... the walking was a nice change of pace for me as I wanted to make sure that I could finish 20 miles and still go to Disneyland that evening... which I DID! She was in no real hurry to finish either as she had big plans for Graduating that day too... and wanted to be able to WALK that evening to get her Teaching Degree! I am proud of her, we ROCKED!
We also had mentors Lisa and Ranga with us for the beginning of our run through about mile 9 or 10! They told our little group of 6 how fast we were and how funny it was for Mentors... who are supposed to be supporters for the participants... were having a hard time keeping up with us! They are trying to recruit me to be a mentor! I think it is definitely in the works but probably not next season! I am thinking Winter 2008 or Spring 2009 for my mentorship!
Disneyland was fun but I was really tired towards the end! I ended up dancing quite a bit which surprised me as much as Jeremy!
Sunday morning, I woke up and thought how nice it would be for me to clean the house for Jeremy and get laundry done early so it wouldn't be a MUST on Monday! So I got up about 9am after tossing and turning since 8am and did the two tasks! Jeremy was very appreciative of my helping in the cleaning department, since it has been MONTHS since I have helped! He ended up working on Saturday (our clean house day) and was delighted to wake up with a clean house and clean clothes! We then went shopping for MOM's Day presents and to a hobby store for US! Then we headed to his parents house and hung out until I had my bowling league! I bowled OK... my average is 115 and last night my avg was 120 for the 3 games! We ended up winning 5 out of 7 points and that made me really happy! As of yesterday's standings we are 1st place in our division!!!! Just 3 weeks ago we were in last place... YIPPEE!!!!!
That about sums up my weekend!
I am running 4 miles today along Mile Square Park and going to my tap class this afternoon! I hope to watch a movie and relax after my tap class! I will let you know if that happens tomorrow, here's to hoping!
Sorry for the lack of updates, I have been so busy lately! I hope to update more often and not leave y'all hanging like that again!
Love ya,
Mel
Less than 3 weeks until race day! Actually 20 More days to go, but whose counting!!!!!!!
I completed 40 miles last week, Yikes! Never did I think that I could possibly accomplish that in one week, EVER! But guess what... I will be doing 40 miles on race week and I know I can do it NOW!
Saturday's 20-mile run was on a new course most of the time... the course name is double loop! I have to say that the first loop was very pretty and had nice scenery... the second loop was completely opposite! I do have to thank two wonderful people for helping me/the team out this Saturday! I asked if they would volunteer to help with the water stops and they got a lot of compliments from everyone who stopped by their Mile 11 Water Stop! THANK YOU Gwynne and Mom for doing that for all of us! They were absolutely GREAT!
Have you ever heard of runners say they hit a wall? Well this Saturday I felt the wall hitting! Hitting a wall is when you think you can't go any further but then when you pass that feeling and keep continuing you find that you DID IT! That was me from mile 18-19! When we passed an area that said Mile 17 I thought I could do this... but then we never saw Mile 18 or 19 marked and knew that the light at the end of the tunnel was once we saw the 5-Freeway! Since it wasn't marked we had no idea how much further... it felt like FOREVER and when we FINALLY saw the freeway... we all screamed of excitement and new that we COULD finish this run! It almost put me and the other 5 people I was running with into tears! That is hitting the wall!
One of the ladies who was running with us "Stephanie" said it was a great accomplishment to be running with us because we were fast! I don't really consider myself fast... so I thought that was cool and a great compliment! She did GREAT too! We ran for 3:50 minutes that day and completed OUR first 20 mile run... that equals 11:30/pace per mile... I don't think that was fast but I wasn't about speed on Sat... it was only about finishing! We did walk some and stopped at all 3 water stops... I played Yahtzee as it was the game offered to break up our miles! We also ate a bunch of snacks that was available on the course! It was a lot of fun and I am so proud of myself for accomplishing with great people around me! Jason (my honored teammate) and his brother David cheered us on at the Mile 16 water stop!
Their is so much that had happened I think I could put on 5 or 6 blogs for ALL of my experiences! It was just amazing and I am in awe of how I feel after completing that challenge!
To sum what could be a VERY long post... we were tricked on the course! At mile 15 the chalk mark said... 4 miles to go! We kept running and wondering where our Mile 16 water stop was or if they forgot to put it out!?! Well when Megan and Carolena looked at the map... it said we were at mile 15 and not 16 as that would be 4 miles to go! We were all just trying to push to mile 16 for a break... that felt like a long mile!
At mile 12 Jeremy called me to inform me that some worker was parked in my parking spot and let me know that I could park in his spot, if needed! I think it was his way of venting at a frustrating thing for him... NOT something I really was concerned about at that point because my main concern was finishing 8 more miles with my friend Kim at my side. Also at that point Kim had hit her challenge with a pulled muscle in her right calf. She and I walked and tried to run through it but she was SO frustrated and I stuck with her... trying to help her out with stop and stretching as much as she needed! I have to admit... the walking was a nice change of pace for me as I wanted to make sure that I could finish 20 miles and still go to Disneyland that evening... which I DID! She was in no real hurry to finish either as she had big plans for Graduating that day too... and wanted to be able to WALK that evening to get her Teaching Degree! I am proud of her, we ROCKED!
We also had mentors Lisa and Ranga with us for the beginning of our run through about mile 9 or 10! They told our little group of 6 how fast we were and how funny it was for Mentors... who are supposed to be supporters for the participants... were having a hard time keeping up with us! They are trying to recruit me to be a mentor! I think it is definitely in the works but probably not next season! I am thinking Winter 2008 or Spring 2009 for my mentorship!
Disneyland was fun but I was really tired towards the end! I ended up dancing quite a bit which surprised me as much as Jeremy!
Sunday morning, I woke up and thought how nice it would be for me to clean the house for Jeremy and get laundry done early so it wouldn't be a MUST on Monday! So I got up about 9am after tossing and turning since 8am and did the two tasks! Jeremy was very appreciative of my helping in the cleaning department, since it has been MONTHS since I have helped! He ended up working on Saturday (our clean house day) and was delighted to wake up with a clean house and clean clothes! We then went shopping for MOM's Day presents and to a hobby store for US! Then we headed to his parents house and hung out until I had my bowling league! I bowled OK... my average is 115 and last night my avg was 120 for the 3 games! We ended up winning 5 out of 7 points and that made me really happy! As of yesterday's standings we are 1st place in our division!!!! Just 3 weeks ago we were in last place... YIPPEE!!!!!
That about sums up my weekend!
I am running 4 miles today along Mile Square Park and going to my tap class this afternoon! I hope to watch a movie and relax after my tap class! I will let you know if that happens tomorrow, here's to hoping!
Sorry for the lack of updates, I have been so busy lately! I hope to update more often and not leave y'all hanging like that again!
Love ya,
Mel
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
A sad update
Below is a message from our Honored Teammate Jason's dad Coach Paul, Jason's was diagnosed with cancer about the same time as his friend Ulysses... HIS mom wrote a note below regarding is relapse! This Saturday will be a sad one as many of the mentors, coaches, and teammates know this little boy who isn't even 3 yrs old! I will run 20 miles in his honor this Saturday!
Hello Team:
For those of you on the Summer Team - our winter team had many updates spoken of Ulysses in our mission moments but wanted to include you in this email from Coach Paul and teammate Geraldine. If you ever doubt that what you are doing is really not that important - read this letter and know that you are each a glimmer of hope for families like Ulysses. Keep them in your prayers. ~ Judy
Those of you who were part of the winter team may remember me talking about a little boy named Ulysses Adams. Just this evening I receive some very sad news, which I want to share with all of you. Please read all of it, as these are words from the family:
your teammates,
Geraldine and Paul,
I am in tears as I compose this update. We received confirmation that Ulysses is in relapse last Friday. Forgive me for still not having the strength to tell you in person. The doctors and family agreed to put out the best effort to make him as comfortable as possible. We do not know how much time he has left.
This Wednesday, he will receive blood transfusion from his sister, Aspen, as his last treatment. Almost 3 years old, Ulysses has not been able to play in the playground with others. One of the wishes my sister has for him is for him to enjoy Disneyland. They are working with "Make A Wish" foundation and Disney directly in the hope to get him in the ride ahead of the long line.
Under the doctors' advice, the family plan to drive down Wednesday afternoon right after the blood transfusion. The reason is that Ulysses may be in the best condition the first few days after the transfusion. However, the doctors are also concerned the transfusion may cause GVHD. Ulysses oncologists will be on standby and would communicate his condition with an oncology professional in the local area should an emergency situation arises. Just in case, I am asking your help by allowing me the option to contact Jason's or Kevan's oncologists if Ulysses needs emergency attention.
I also plan to take time off on Thursday and Friday to be with Ulysses. We do not know how long they could stay with us; it all depends on his condition. If feasible, I'd take Ulysses to visit you in the office. Although I know our faith will sustain the family in the coming days; however, the thoughts of loosing this cute little boy just put me in tears every time. Once again, I appreciate your support and prayers.
Thanks,
Shelly
This week and Saturday, please carry Ulysses with you in your heart and your prayers. Also, if any of you have an "in" or work at Disneyland, maybe you can help make his trip to the magic kingdom more special. ~ Coach Paul
Please consider supporting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).
Although WE have made my donation minimum! Now I ask for you to help fellow teammates who are very dedicated to the training - there every week and working hard!!
SKylar Jarvis - http://www.active.com/donate/tntors/tntorsSJarvis
Tatum Rodriguez - http://www.active.com/donate/tntors/tatum
Cecile Tolentino - http://www.active.com/donate/tntors/tntorsCTolentTo
Rembember WE are running a marathon on June 1st through Team in Training (TNT) Lymphoma and Leukemia Society (LLS)! WE are fundraising to find a cure for cancer and must raise a minimum of $2800 to run the race! If you would like to help me by prayers/donations/etc. It would be greatly appreciated! Whatever WE don't receive in donations... we must pay out of pocket... YIKES!
Hello Team:
For those of you on the Summer Team - our winter team had many updates spoken of Ulysses in our mission moments but wanted to include you in this email from Coach Paul and teammate Geraldine. If you ever doubt that what you are doing is really not that important - read this letter and know that you are each a glimmer of hope for families like Ulysses. Keep them in your prayers. ~ Judy
Those of you who were part of the winter team may remember me talking about a little boy named Ulysses Adams. Just this evening I receive some very sad news, which I want to share with all of you. Please read all of it, as these are words from the family:
your teammates,
Geraldine and Paul,
I am in tears as I compose this update. We received confirmation that Ulysses is in relapse last Friday. Forgive me for still not having the strength to tell you in person. The doctors and family agreed to put out the best effort to make him as comfortable as possible. We do not know how much time he has left.
This Wednesday, he will receive blood transfusion from his sister, Aspen, as his last treatment. Almost 3 years old, Ulysses has not been able to play in the playground with others. One of the wishes my sister has for him is for him to enjoy Disneyland. They are working with "Make A Wish" foundation and Disney directly in the hope to get him in the ride ahead of the long line.
Under the doctors' advice, the family plan to drive down Wednesday afternoon right after the blood transfusion. The reason is that Ulysses may be in the best condition the first few days after the transfusion. However, the doctors are also concerned the transfusion may cause GVHD. Ulysses oncologists will be on standby and would communicate his condition with an oncology professional in the local area should an emergency situation arises. Just in case, I am asking your help by allowing me the option to contact Jason's or Kevan's oncologists if Ulysses needs emergency attention.
I also plan to take time off on Thursday and Friday to be with Ulysses. We do not know how long they could stay with us; it all depends on his condition. If feasible, I'd take Ulysses to visit you in the office. Although I know our faith will sustain the family in the coming days; however, the thoughts of loosing this cute little boy just put me in tears every time. Once again, I appreciate your support and prayers.
Thanks,
Shelly
This week and Saturday, please carry Ulysses with you in your heart and your prayers. Also, if any of you have an "in" or work at Disneyland, maybe you can help make his trip to the magic kingdom more special. ~ Coach Paul
Please consider supporting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).
Although WE have made my donation minimum! Now I ask for you to help fellow teammates who are very dedicated to the training - there every week and working hard!!
SKylar Jarvis - http://www.active.com/donate/tntors/tntorsSJarvis
Tatum Rodriguez - http://www.active.com/donate/tntors/tatum
Cecile Tolentino - http://www.active.com/donate/tntors/tntorsCTolentTo
Rembember WE are running a marathon on June 1st through Team in Training (TNT) Lymphoma and Leukemia Society (LLS)! WE are fundraising to find a cure for cancer and must raise a minimum of $2800 to run the race! If you would like to help me by prayers/donations/etc. It would be greatly appreciated! Whatever WE don't receive in donations... we must pay out of pocket... YIKES!
$2,803! We did it!
25 days until race day.
Here is a quote I found on a carepage site today: "HOPE sees the invisible, feels the intangible and achieves the impossible".
I like that quote as I can relate to this as I prepare for the 20 miler on Saturday and then the 26.2 miles on June 1st! I have HOPE that I will finish the marathon as a lot can happen in 20/26.2 miles and I know God will see me through this achievement with my faith! Individually I have stepped out of my comfort zone and I have been blessed with making my fundraising minimum just in time for my final funds deadline! I have also been able to bless other teammates with the more funds that keep coming in to me... so far it is $65 and I am hoping for more to come so I can help other teammates reach their minimum as I have done! What we are doing to help others is INTANGIBLE, thank you for being part of the OC COAST TEAM!
Today is a fundraiser at Ruby's in Costa Mesa and both Paul and I will be supporting Sandra on our team. Jeremy is also supporting her by placing an order through me, I am getting a To-Go dinner for him! If Gwynne runs with us today then maybe she will join in on the fun too! We should have plenty of room for burgers since we are running 8 miles today!
I ran 6 miles on both Monday and Tuesday, I have kept a really good pace too! Monday was about a 10 min. per mile and yesterday was 9:51 min. per mile! Today's 8 miler will make 20 miles for midweek training and then I am resting for 2 days with a little tap dancing on Thursday... the resting should help with my 20-miler on Saturday! Butterflies are starting to set in already, LOL!
Thank you for all your support and prayers... it means a lot to me!
::: GOD BLESS :::
Here is a quote I found on a carepage site today: "HOPE sees the invisible, feels the intangible and achieves the impossible".
I like that quote as I can relate to this as I prepare for the 20 miler on Saturday and then the 26.2 miles on June 1st! I have HOPE that I will finish the marathon as a lot can happen in 20/26.2 miles and I know God will see me through this achievement with my faith! Individually I have stepped out of my comfort zone and I have been blessed with making my fundraising minimum just in time for my final funds deadline! I have also been able to bless other teammates with the more funds that keep coming in to me... so far it is $65 and I am hoping for more to come so I can help other teammates reach their minimum as I have done! What we are doing to help others is INTANGIBLE, thank you for being part of the OC COAST TEAM!
Today is a fundraiser at Ruby's in Costa Mesa and both Paul and I will be supporting Sandra on our team. Jeremy is also supporting her by placing an order through me, I am getting a To-Go dinner for him! If Gwynne runs with us today then maybe she will join in on the fun too! We should have plenty of room for burgers since we are running 8 miles today!
I ran 6 miles on both Monday and Tuesday, I have kept a really good pace too! Monday was about a 10 min. per mile and yesterday was 9:51 min. per mile! Today's 8 miler will make 20 miles for midweek training and then I am resting for 2 days with a little tap dancing on Thursday... the resting should help with my 20-miler on Saturday! Butterflies are starting to set in already, LOL!
Thank you for all your support and prayers... it means a lot to me!
::: GOD BLESS :::
Monday, May 5, 2008
Happy Cinco De Mayo!
27 more days until race day! A long post as promised!
Excitement and nerves are setting in! This week I will concur 2 first timers... #1 My first time running a 20-miler and #2 My first time running 40 miles total for a week! This is very exciting for me!
This weekend was very nice. It is amazing how cool SUNDAY was compared to SATURDAY. Of course the days I run we seem to have 80-90 degree weather and then Sunday's come around and it drops 10 degrees...
Saturday's run was very much a success... I ran with Kim as I have for the last few weeks and we really concentrated on breathing techniques while we ran and it helped us to go quicker... I don't know if it was the breathing or lack of talking, LOL! I am just teasing... we did talk alot after the run though and even if conversations are minimum I still enjoy having her company and not running by myself!
So back to our run... we did 14 miles and our concentration was focused on PACE. Lately we (Kim and I) have been running around an 11 minute pace! Saturday we were much faster... can you guess it???? Alright well I will tell you then, we ran a 10:15 pace per mile! NOT BAD seeing how we did 14 miles with that average pace... so how long does one have to run to get that pace for 14 miles... the answer is 2:23! Yep... we ran for 2 hours and 23 minutes with minimal resting stops!
After that run I went to get my oil changed and found out I was due for a minor service to go with it! The dealership gave me an estimated time of 1 1/2 hrs! I was so tired by the time my car was done (3hrs later) and then I took a quick shower and headed off to a party. NO nap or icing my knees! I only lasted that evening until about 10pm and I was out! My hubby woke me up and I went home and to sleep in my own bed!
Sunday was pretty relaxing... I just did things around the house and then went to my in-laws to see my hubby (he is house sitting from Sat - Tue) and everyone is taking turns feeding the dogs between my sister-in-law, brother-in-law, hubby, and I! Today after my tap class I am on duty for dog/house sitting until Jeremy gets off work!
I can't forget to mention that we KICKED BUTT in my bowling league on Sunday! We one ALL seven points for the second week in a row. My avg was 125 for the night and my league avg is 113 so I am happy with my performance. All the other members of our team did very well too. We slaughtered them with winning the first game by 163 pins, second game 180 pins, and the last game by 20 pins! I guess you could say we were running out of fuel by the last game but yet still won!
Today I am running (with or without) Kim at Mile Square Park for 6 miles and then I will be at my tap class until 7ish! When that is done... I will be dog/house sitting for awhile and of course relaxing!
Tomorrow is the back bay run and we are scheduled for 6 miles and then on Wednesday we are doing 8 miles in the same location. My goal is to be done with the running by Wednesday evening to give my legs a BIG break for Saturday's 20 miler! Oh yeah... and they changed the time to 6:30am... HELP ME! I am so not a morning person! I may have a latte before this run, LOL! Usually we run at 7 and that is pushing it...
Our Race on the big day JUNE 1st starts at 6am so this should gear me for the actual event!
Last week I am proud to tell you that I did accomplish my full 33 miles! I ended up doing a 5 mile walk around my office location and it took forever... but yet I finished! I have a 17min/mile pace when I walk so my attention span was over the edge while walking. I kept thinking how much easier it is to run rather than walk so ALL you walkers out their... :::HIGH FIVE::: I give you props!
Until tomorrow... Happy Cinco De Mayo!!!!!!
Excitement and nerves are setting in! This week I will concur 2 first timers... #1 My first time running a 20-miler and #2 My first time running 40 miles total for a week! This is very exciting for me!
This weekend was very nice. It is amazing how cool SUNDAY was compared to SATURDAY. Of course the days I run we seem to have 80-90 degree weather and then Sunday's come around and it drops 10 degrees...
Saturday's run was very much a success... I ran with Kim as I have for the last few weeks and we really concentrated on breathing techniques while we ran and it helped us to go quicker... I don't know if it was the breathing or lack of talking, LOL! I am just teasing... we did talk alot after the run though and even if conversations are minimum I still enjoy having her company and not running by myself!
So back to our run... we did 14 miles and our concentration was focused on PACE. Lately we (Kim and I) have been running around an 11 minute pace! Saturday we were much faster... can you guess it???? Alright well I will tell you then, we ran a 10:15 pace per mile! NOT BAD seeing how we did 14 miles with that average pace... so how long does one have to run to get that pace for 14 miles... the answer is 2:23! Yep... we ran for 2 hours and 23 minutes with minimal resting stops!
After that run I went to get my oil changed and found out I was due for a minor service to go with it! The dealership gave me an estimated time of 1 1/2 hrs! I was so tired by the time my car was done (3hrs later) and then I took a quick shower and headed off to a party. NO nap or icing my knees! I only lasted that evening until about 10pm and I was out! My hubby woke me up and I went home and to sleep in my own bed!
Sunday was pretty relaxing... I just did things around the house and then went to my in-laws to see my hubby (he is house sitting from Sat - Tue) and everyone is taking turns feeding the dogs between my sister-in-law, brother-in-law, hubby, and I! Today after my tap class I am on duty for dog/house sitting until Jeremy gets off work!
I can't forget to mention that we KICKED BUTT in my bowling league on Sunday! We one ALL seven points for the second week in a row. My avg was 125 for the night and my league avg is 113 so I am happy with my performance. All the other members of our team did very well too. We slaughtered them with winning the first game by 163 pins, second game 180 pins, and the last game by 20 pins! I guess you could say we were running out of fuel by the last game but yet still won!
Today I am running (with or without) Kim at Mile Square Park for 6 miles and then I will be at my tap class until 7ish! When that is done... I will be dog/house sitting for awhile and of course relaxing!
Tomorrow is the back bay run and we are scheduled for 6 miles and then on Wednesday we are doing 8 miles in the same location. My goal is to be done with the running by Wednesday evening to give my legs a BIG break for Saturday's 20 miler! Oh yeah... and they changed the time to 6:30am... HELP ME! I am so not a morning person! I may have a latte before this run, LOL! Usually we run at 7 and that is pushing it...
Our Race on the big day JUNE 1st starts at 6am so this should gear me for the actual event!
Last week I am proud to tell you that I did accomplish my full 33 miles! I ended up doing a 5 mile walk around my office location and it took forever... but yet I finished! I have a 17min/mile pace when I walk so my attention span was over the edge while walking. I kept thinking how much easier it is to run rather than walk so ALL you walkers out their... :::HIGH FIVE::: I give you props!
Until tomorrow... Happy Cinco De Mayo!!!!!!
Friday, May 2, 2008
Happy Friday :)
30 more days to go!!!!!!!
I had a blast last night in my tap class and then I decided to go grocery shopping which was much needed... since Jeremy ate the rest of my Skinny Cow Ice Cream sandwiches! We were low on other things so I stocked up on frozen meals (my kind of cooking, LOL) and now my freezer is so full that nothing more can go into it!
I have 5 miles to do today and so I am going for a 30 minute walk on my lunch hour and then I will go for another walk after work until my five miles are complete. My dad and I are going to dinner and depending on how I feel we may possibly watch a movie "August Rush" from my Netflix Que!
I know I will sleep GREAT tonight because last night I think I may have had 6 hours of sleep... I have a 8hr sleep requirement, so you know how I really feel today!
Tomorrow is going to be very exciting day! I am running 14 miles at 7am and we are working on pace so I am aiming for a faster run day... passing my fellow buddies out on the trail! The weather supposed to be 72 degrees so thank you for your prayers for cooler weather! I have a 12:30 appointment to get my car serviced (oil change and washed) and then I will be getting spiffy for my friend's birthday party around 3pm! We are not going to Disney tomorrow, but will be continuing our weekend routine next week! I like taking a break from our routine and I am sure we will be dancing, swimming, playing pool, and of course eating from 3pm until we are partied out!!!
Sunday is Rest (of course) and then bowling!
Check back in on Monday for some good stories... I may need to warn you that the post on Monday will be a long one!
:::Bear Hugs:::
I had a blast last night in my tap class and then I decided to go grocery shopping which was much needed... since Jeremy ate the rest of my Skinny Cow Ice Cream sandwiches! We were low on other things so I stocked up on frozen meals (my kind of cooking, LOL) and now my freezer is so full that nothing more can go into it!
I have 5 miles to do today and so I am going for a 30 minute walk on my lunch hour and then I will go for another walk after work until my five miles are complete. My dad and I are going to dinner and depending on how I feel we may possibly watch a movie "August Rush" from my Netflix Que!
I know I will sleep GREAT tonight because last night I think I may have had 6 hours of sleep... I have a 8hr sleep requirement, so you know how I really feel today!
Tomorrow is going to be very exciting day! I am running 14 miles at 7am and we are working on pace so I am aiming for a faster run day... passing my fellow buddies out on the trail! The weather supposed to be 72 degrees so thank you for your prayers for cooler weather! I have a 12:30 appointment to get my car serviced (oil change and washed) and then I will be getting spiffy for my friend's birthday party around 3pm! We are not going to Disney tomorrow, but will be continuing our weekend routine next week! I like taking a break from our routine and I am sure we will be dancing, swimming, playing pool, and of course eating from 3pm until we are partied out!!!
Sunday is Rest (of course) and then bowling!
Check back in on Monday for some good stories... I may need to warn you that the post on Monday will be a long one!
:::Bear Hugs:::
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Happy May Day! 31 one days until the big day :)
A different type of posting day, since we are kicking of the big countdown I thought I would let you know how things are going behind the scenes...
I wanted to post this message from Coach Paul (Tuesday/Wednesday) running partner. His son is our honored teammate (Jason 3 1/2 yrs) and he posted this update about his son! If you read this... you are a part of my team and this pertains to you too!
________
Hello Team:
I just wanted to give you a status on Jason's treatment. Jason went into CHOC today for his quarterly LP, which involves a conscious sedation, then drawing fluid from his spinal column. After that, chemo is injected into his spine. The reason for the chemo in the spine is to destroy any cancer cells,which may be in the spinal fluid. These cells would have a direct route to the brain otherwise. Jason will be on steroids and 4 other meds this week. The steroid makes him cranky to say the least, and also raises his blood pressure. It is all about comfort foods and cuddling this week.
Have a great week training!
Coach Paul
________
My final fundraising deadline is coming up quick and I am almost at my minimum fun-raising goal with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I have raised a total of $2,536 and my goal is $2,800! That means I am only $264 away from making my goal to help in finding a cure for cancer! Join me in this race for a cure by donating to my website http://www.active.com/donate/tntors/tntorsMPires
… remember this is tax deductible and if I can get 10 people to donate $1 per mile that will equal $26.20 per person and I will make my goal! I am mailing checks on May 5th to insure proper timing for posting to my fundraising account by the deadline May 16th! Online donations post instantly!
My mid week training is going great. I ran 7 miles on Tuesday and Wednesday for a total of 14 miles. I have 5 more to go... can I do it before Saturday's run? YOU BET! I am a little sore but overall I feel GREAT! Paul and I had some good random conversations while we ran and it made the time fly by. We were 19 seconds faster on Wednesday with a finish time of 1:13:07 on Wednesday and Tuesday's run was 1:13:22!!!!!!
Yesterday for those who didn't know about the 31 flavors Baskin Robbins deal... they were offering a single scoop ice cream from 5pm-10pm for $0.31!!!! I LOVE ICE CREAM!!!!!!! So I went their after running 7 miles and before dinner, LOL! I hope no dietitian is reading this!!!! Anyway... the word got out and the lines were too long. SO I went home and had ice cream from my freezer :)~ It was just too cold outside 62 degrees and I was too gross from my run to want to wait for a cheap ice cream so... SKINNY COW ice cream it was!
Thank you so much for your support, encouragement, and ultimately for helping find a cure! Praying for cool weather this Saturday!
Melissa
I wanted to post this message from Coach Paul (Tuesday/Wednesday) running partner. His son is our honored teammate (Jason 3 1/2 yrs) and he posted this update about his son! If you read this... you are a part of my team and this pertains to you too!
________
Hello Team:
I just wanted to give you a status on Jason's treatment. Jason went into CHOC today for his quarterly LP, which involves a conscious sedation, then drawing fluid from his spinal column. After that, chemo is injected into his spine. The reason for the chemo in the spine is to destroy any cancer cells,which may be in the spinal fluid. These cells would have a direct route to the brain otherwise. Jason will be on steroids and 4 other meds this week. The steroid makes him cranky to say the least, and also raises his blood pressure. It is all about comfort foods and cuddling this week.
Have a great week training!
Coach Paul
________
My final fundraising deadline is coming up quick and I am almost at my minimum fun-raising goal with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I have raised a total of $2,536 and my goal is $2,800! That means I am only $264 away from making my goal to help in finding a cure for cancer! Join me in this race for a cure by donating to my website http://www.active.com/donate/tntors/tntorsMPires
… remember this is tax deductible and if I can get 10 people to donate $1 per mile that will equal $26.20 per person and I will make my goal! I am mailing checks on May 5th to insure proper timing for posting to my fundraising account by the deadline May 16th! Online donations post instantly!
My mid week training is going great. I ran 7 miles on Tuesday and Wednesday for a total of 14 miles. I have 5 more to go... can I do it before Saturday's run? YOU BET! I am a little sore but overall I feel GREAT! Paul and I had some good random conversations while we ran and it made the time fly by. We were 19 seconds faster on Wednesday with a finish time of 1:13:07 on Wednesday and Tuesday's run was 1:13:22!!!!!!
Yesterday for those who didn't know about the 31 flavors Baskin Robbins deal... they were offering a single scoop ice cream from 5pm-10pm for $0.31!!!! I LOVE ICE CREAM!!!!!!! So I went their after running 7 miles and before dinner, LOL! I hope no dietitian is reading this!!!! Anyway... the word got out and the lines were too long. SO I went home and had ice cream from my freezer :)~ It was just too cold outside 62 degrees and I was too gross from my run to want to wait for a cheap ice cream so... SKINNY COW ice cream it was!
Thank you so much for your support, encouragement, and ultimately for helping find a cure! Praying for cool weather this Saturday!
Melissa
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