Countdown to My Solo Marathon Run: Approaching the Zero Hour

In a few hours I will get up to breakfast, prep and head out for my much anticipated solo marathon trek. I am excited and feel prepared. I got some awesome last minute tips from the Team Fox Coach last week on how to run in the cold and/or rain, it is all about layers (I'll share more details in a future post) and why one should not take any NSAIDS (like Advil, Naproxen, etc.) 24 hours before a long strenuous workout such as a marathon run. Doing so can impact the functioning of your kidneys and more. He reminded me to have fun as have so many.

So why is my head filled with questions the night before instead of filled with thoughts of falling into sweet, deep zzzzz's? Like...

Will it rain? How much? Will I have enough battery power on my cell and I-Pod (filled with music loaded and selected courtesy of my #1- my daughter Krystal) until I cross the finish? Will I make it all the way in my Puma H-Street's the most minimalist, close to barefoot running shoes I own and feel the most comfortable running in or switch to something with more support, New Balance Minimus when I meet her at the foot of the Queensboro Bridge Greenway?

Will my Mom be up, in good spirits and health for me to make a pit stop at her place, so she can share in the experience of my first marathon run or will there be a set back at mile 6? If there is a setback how do I handle it? Do I stop and cancel my run? Mom's health and helping her navigate her ups and downs with Parkinson's Disease has been a priority and marathon challenge in itself. I am grateful that my older brother is spending this weekend with her to lend a hand until permanent care is underway. But, what if, I am delayed at her place? Can I and should I try to make up the time? Should it matter? Would doing so set me back in the progress I have made in physical therapy for my knee? One of the top physical therapists taped me good, but can my body still take the pounding to the end?

My mind is full of questions that only the morning can answer. These are the variables that are not in my control. But, instead of fighting them, or panicking over their presence I have decided to try a new approach tonight, that of making peace with the fact that pondering is part of our human existence. It is what separates us from animals (unless you are Pinky and the Brain). Our mind needs to ponder, to plan and prepare for all scenarios for the organism's survival and for our plans to come to fruition.

Remember Pinky and the Brain and Brain's pondering if Pinky's pondering what he's pondering?

Brain: Are you pondering what I'm pondering?
Pinky: I think so Brain, but...

Too funny!


Starting to feel some semblance of zzzz's coming on. So to all a good night!

Countdown to My Solo Marathon Run 4 Days: Carbo Loading Lunch

All this for just $4. Who says you can't get a bargain in New York City?

Carbo lunching for my run on Sunday.

1 large banana- $0.55
1 red bean bun - $1
1 12 once cup of soup (1/2 veggie, 1-2 chicken noodle)- $2.45
5 packs if saltines (10 crackers)- Free

Countdown to My Solo Marathon Run 5 Days: From "Cheers" to "Friends" to the End

There are so many wonderful sayings about friends. When I was a girl I remember friends saying we would be "friends to the end," and the reply back would be "friends to the end." Which if to the end, or infinity goes beyond today's usage of BFF's (Best Friends for Life).

We also had "blood buddies." If you and a friend where brave enough and felt your friendship was as deep or deeper than your blood family you would make a small cut on a finger or the palm of your hand and co-mingle your blood, a sign of commitment to the blood buddy. You won't find that expression in a Google search easily, but a similar sign of the deep bond of a friendship can be seen in the use of the expression "blood," instead of calling friends by their given names. As are calling friends bro, sis or momma, which has no male equivalent expression in English, the closest one "daddio" used in the 50's just meant "dude," though in Spanish friends may call one another "mami" or "papi."

The imagery that goes along with many sayings are exemplary of the saying "A picture is worth a thousand words."

I love this one from SearchQuotes.Com: "Friendship isn't about whom you have known the longest. It's about who came and never left your side." How true.

And, I will add that in family many ties go beyond blood relation to if we did not share DNA I would still want you in my life. That is as tight a relation as you can imagine. Lastly we have the partnership relations that reach an end but the friendship continues.

In our adult lives friendships can develop in the space of our 9 to 5's, who we room with in college dorms or an apartment or during after work social activities.

Remember the TV series Cheers that aired from 1982 to 1993? Setting: a Boston Bar. Catch phrase: "where everyone knows your name." Then came the Friends series from 1994 to 2004. Setting: New York City. Catch phrase: "I'll be there for you, cause you're there for me too." We don't know the how or why's behind our meeting. Just the good that comes of it and blossoms as we age.

On my commute to work today I thought of all the friends who have supported me in one way or another as I trained for the ING Marathon, as I planned and prepared to give it a go and do a solo run, in fox costume and all. Who have been at my side through the the marathon we are all engaged in, day in and day out the marathon challenges of life. I have had a tough go on many levels in 2012 as have many of my dear friends but no matter our own challenges we remain at each others side. A call, an email, a text, a FB chat or wall post, a dinner, a lunch, an after work drink, a run or power walk to chat and catch up.

Music is so much a part of my life. In addition, to words and imagery. When I think of my friends I think of  Elton John and Bernie Taupin's "Friends" that starts with the lyrics:

"I hope the day will be a lighter highway. For friends are found on every road. Can you ever think of any better way. For the lost and weary travelers to go?"
 
"Making friends for the world to see. Let the people know you got what you need. With a friend at hand you will see the light. If your friends are there then every thing's all right"

And, Dionne Warwick and Friend's "That's what friends are for."


As the days wind down to my solo marathon run I want to take time to say THANKS! and, I HEART YOU! to all my wonderful friends, you know who you are - double ;) You will be in my heart as I trek 26.2 miles and always!

xoxo,

Mo's Dragon Marathon Fundraiser for the Micheal J Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research Continues.

Countdown to My Solo Marathon Run - In Lucky #7 Days I will "JUST DO IT!"

Since the beginning of the year I have been planning and preparing to participate in the 2012 NYC ING Marathon. My first half marathon time was not very good (2012 NYC Half Marathon), just over 12 min/mile. I had been hoping as I ran more regularly and trained, to get from the back of the pack (NYRR Purple Power!) to the middle or thereabouts (a bib of a different color). If I could just bring my pace down to a 10 min/mile pace or less. So, after a few weeks of PT (physical therapy) I was planning on how I would train for a marathon and worked it over the summer.

I followed tips from experienced marathon runners and the Team Fox coach, Michael. I did some speed and hill workouts (Central Park is almost all hills so great training and ouch- tough). I focused on form and started to make changes to my diet. Eating healthy carbs, less sugar, drinking lots of water and taking vitamins. Sleeping more and eliminating stress where not feasible challenges to beat at present so there I had to accept the limitations they presented in my training and run with it.

I had to followup with a pulmonologist about testing for my EIA but did not have time. So I opted to follow a walk run strategy. Whether I ran and took walk breaks or ran a few miles straight didn't matter. I FOF'd- Focused on the finish.

Like many adults, head of households, sandwiched between, care giving responsibilities for elderly parents, guiding one's young adult children, work etc. it is a tricky task to find enough time to train for such a long run. You need to set aside at least 3 hours for weekend long runs. Do you do it in the morning before your family gets up? Can you, do it in the evening before dinner? Do you end up using your time off from work? Is it possible to do a long run near your home or to you have to commute somewhere? Anything over 14 miles I opted to commute which had the side effect of blowing a whole day. So to counterbalance I did this every other week.

I liken so much of my running experiences to metaphors for life. And there is something to be said on why while on their treks no matter the distance, many runners say they found religion, some sense of religiosity, spirituality, connection with a higher power, creation, communion with nature, humanity and self. You establish a goal, make many preparations to reach it, then along the way you are learning from your achievements as well as mistakes. Enduring pain. Evolving. Becoming a better you until your goal is met or in some cases reset.

We all know about the reset button on our appliances, but we forget and get frustrated when hurdles come our way in life that we have the ability to reset and change course so we can still reach our goals and dreams.

A few weeks before the marathon I injured my knee during my longest training run, 20.5 miles in Central Park. So, I decided although the NYC Marathon was cancelled that as soon as my knee was feeling better I would get back to training while continuing with PT. I would do my own, solo marathon run before the end of the year and before X-Mas weekend. My longest run since was last Sunday 10.27 Charity Miles to support The Global Fund fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. Can I double the distance and then some next Sunday, December 16th? I say Yes! I CAN! And, I WILL, finish what I started. I will just have to reset my expectations of finishing in 5 hrs. 15 minutes to JUST DO IT!

South Africa's- Oscar Pistorious an inspiration.

There will be a 40% chance of showers. But while some consider rain an ominous sign I see it as a lucky one. Water cleanses, purifies, brings forth life. I think of how it quenches the thirst of crops and fills livestock troughs. If it is pouring rain or ice cold then I will fall back on plan B running Saturday Dec. 22nd.

I have been at my Mom's who has PD since Friday. When we talk about my run she is excited but also adds half jokingly how in the time I run she would just finish getting bathed, groomed and dressed all by herself- my reminder of why I am in it to the finish.

If sporting a Team Fox jersey, along with fox ears and tail helps draw attention and lead anyone to find out more about Parkinson's Disease and the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research then I have reached my unspoken ultimate goal number one! In addition to my fundraising (http://www2.michaeljfox.org/site/TR?px=1005701&fr_id=1081&pg=personal)


Still I hope for more sunshine than rain :)

2012 NYC ING Marathon Count Down The End: Carry On

I am not disappointed the marathon is cancelled. As a New Yorker who has family and friends in the dark, who have had damages to or lost their homes, I am relieved. I was going to run because my mother has Parkinson's disease and I wanted to dedicate my first marathon to her by running with Team Fox, a team that engages in a variety of activities to to support the efforts of the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research! GO TEAM FOX!

As Arnold would say, "I will be back!" NYC ING 2013

I was inspired to run by Mom and the members of the Brooklyn Parkinson Group. How could I not be! Look at what all they do!


Brooklyn Parkinson Group: Dance for PD from Soo Hyung Kim on Vimeo.


They put a great deal of effort into those movements!

There are people suffering day in and day out with numerous diseases, some life threatening, we runners we do what we can to support the causes in our way, by fundraising and raising awareness while we run. Many of us run for more than one charity and help raise thousands of dollars. And I am talking about us average Jane and Joe runners. Surely the elite runners have their own foundations and give even more. In addition, you have many runners who themselves run afflicted by or recovering from a disease, are disabled, etc.

My 2-cents or dollars worth of opinion that I did not want to share pre-marathon because there were enough people out there dishing out divisive and corrosive criticisms is that it would have been better to postpone it until relief efforts where well on their way and NYC's transportation was running closer to normal or make the cancellation announcement earlier, Tuesday or Wednesday instead of late Friday and mail runners their bibs and jerseys who could not make it to the expo to pick them up. I have enough goodies from past races. All those hand lotions, bottles of water or what ever could be donated.

I will always heart my NYC!

Did I want to run through a neighborhood that has no lights? Would I have felt real good that friends of mine who have no lights would come out to cheer me in the dark (I am not a fast runner, I would be in the back somewhere)? NO, and NO. This was not the memory I wanted for my first marathon. Even if I was going to wear a fox costume, run with a "I Heart My New York," sign and try to make my run a festive display for those who would come out and cheer because we do need some cheer in the city. On that note Mayor Bloomberg was 100% right! Our city is divided beyond all reason. I am sick and tired of all the backlash that runners are getting. I am sick and tired of hearing people say why don't you bus all those 47,000 runners to volunteer as if runners do not do anything! Sorry but that is the wrong attitude to have.

And so it this...

A fight starts at a gas pump.

Crowds watching gas pump fights and arguing with owners.

Lines going around a block and then some.

NYPD Resources being wasted on monitoring gas pump mobs instead of in relief efforts! Seriously!

All these people waiting on lines for hours for gas. What kills me is that I saw several people walking several blocks with their orange containers to get gas in a neighborhood that has 3 bus lines that can take you to a train, and a LIRR. I saw people fighting with others and with the owners of the gas stations. I saw our bravest, NYPD wasting time to monitor riots at gas pump brawls instead of on relief efforts. So to all of you complaining about the marathon taking away city resources like the NYPD. Thanks! Thanks for diverting these vital resources because your gas is more important and worth fist fighting for than going to volunteer and help those in the devastated areas.

I will be taking a train to the city in a few minutes to run and support charities that are providing Hurricane Sandy relief efforts in some way. Today many runners will also be volunteering and teams are holding many events to help the city on their own initiative! That is what good runners do! And, most of us give a shit about our fellow New Yorkers and are not whining for hours like this.

I will not run a marathon today! But I will run my marathon on my own time. My point to runners who may be on the complaining side is, we should not need a road race to hit a running milestone we should remember why we run and just do it.

2012 NYC ING Countdown 3 Days: Having Strength

Today my journey entails getting to work in Manhattan, picking up Parkinson's medications for my Mom, getting to her place to before 8PM so I can return to mine by midnight. When you, have a serious illness like Parkinson's, skipping medications can really make or break your day. I will write more on how we dealt with that challenge during Frankenstorm tonight. All I can say for now is that you always have to have backup plans especially when it comes to the care of the elderly. Truly as you do for children.

It takes a village to raise a child.

It takes a village to care for the elderly.

Be that village for them!

So many people face challenges everyday. Whether you are hurting from Hurricane Sandy, Frankenstorm or some other personal or greater concern. Keep this Marley saying...

"You never know how strong your are, until being strong is your only choice."

Ways to help:

You can help the victims of Super Storm Sandy by donating to the American Red Cross, click here.

To help those suffering from Parkinson's please support the Michael J. Fox Foundations for Parkinson's Research by clicking here.

2012 NYC ING Marathon Countdown 4 Days: In a New York State of Mind, Packing Your Bags

We are all still reeling in the impact of Frankenstorm. Many families in the evacuation zones are still in shelters or taking up temporary residence with family, friends and neighbors (there is really no place like home!). Others are without power. Transportation is limited. Airports are finally open.

In New York City, in addition to all this while limited bus service resumed last night, the heart and lungs of our city's transit system, MTA's subway service is still down. Some subway service is expected to resume tomorrow.

In moments of difficulty New Yorkers display their resilience and ability to stand tall and stick together to the end. Neighbors helping neighbors, cut down trees, remove debris, sandbag homes, share kitchens and dens, shop keepers giving out water and food, emergency crews working around the clock to help those stranded in high waters, evacuate senior residences, hospitals, transit teams pumping out tunnels, crews clearing the streets, that is my New York!!

NYC- The most diverse, beautiful metropolis in the world.

Most people heeded the warnings before the storm hit and those who were not in evacuation zones prepared as well. Flashlights check. Water check. Enough food and drinks for a few days check. Plan A, B, and C in case of an unexpected emergency check. List of friends and relatives to call and check-in with as well as to check on check. It may take some time before things are back to normal but the preparedness of all New Yorkers, and of local and state authorities was key in containing the extent of the damage and loss of life in the storm. It is was also instrumental in helping get New York City back in business today. It may take a few weeks to bring things back to close to normal. But we will get there. We always do.

New York Road Runners (NYRR) the host of the NYC ING Marathon announced that it was up to Mayor Bloomberg if the Marathon would go on as scheduled and he announced that it will be. Are your ready?

Being prepared at least a day or 2 before a race, especially a marathon will boost your performance, by eliminating stress. There is nothing worse than rushing around at the last minute, looking for pins for your bib, clean socks, energy gels, keys, etc. Below are a few tips to help you get ready.

Pre-race Preparation Tips: 

Set a spot where you will put all your race gear together; corner spot on a dresser, desk, table, etc.

Put your things in a plastic bin(s) or box. A large gift box can do the trick too. This will keep things from getting lost in a shuffle, falling behind something etc.

Make a check-list of all the things you will need, and cross them off as you put them in. If it is a lot write it down. If it is not or you have a super keen memory, work your mental check list.

Use alternatives. Missing something? If it is not crucial such as your bib number and pins for it, sneakers, D-Tag, heart rate monitor, etc. find something that can work in its place.

For example, if the socks you like to use when you run aren't clean, throw another pair in the box (yes, even the argyle ones, or hello kitty knee highs). The same goes for other articles of clothing. Just in case something happens and you couldn't get to the laundry or shop at a store.

Prepare for the expected and unexpected. Throw in...

  * Medications used regularly & need during, after a race, inhalers, etc. 

  * Band-aids for blisters (a couple of medium and large ones).
 
  * Cotton balls.

  * Small pack of tissues.
 
  * Small tube of anti-bacterial ointment.

  * Small tube of Aloe lotion.

  * An ACE bandage.

  * Sports tape.

  * Instant Ice Packs. 

These are great. Shake 'em up. Give 'em a squeeze and they are ready! You got your sports tape to hold them in place.

  * A Bandana. 

I  have used bandanas for many things, besides tying one on to keep sweat from running down my face, I can tie it to form a little pouch which I can secure to my waist pack to hold a small bottle of water. But, more importantly for first aid you can use one to clean a cut, scrape or blister, or hold an ice pack in place.

  * A cane that folds. 

If you are going into a race being a little sore, you hurt your ankle, knee, etc. and you are determined to finish the race, bring it along just in case at the end of the race you may need it. Depending on the size of your bag it may stick out a little.

   * Compression socks or sleeves.

If you are running in a pair you may want an extra. If your are not. They do come in handy after a long run.

   * Your emergency contact person's name and number. 

We will generally have this written on the back of our bibs, but it does not hurt to have it in your wallet, or on a card in your bag.

If you need emergency care, or have to go to a hospital make it easy for the medical professionals assisting you to find your emergency contact's name in your cell phone, besides going through group lists (family, friends, VIP's...).

On most phones if you put an asterisk in front of a person's name it will bring it to the top of your contact list.This does not work on i-Phones. For an i-Phone I would recommend using the letter A followed by a symbol. You get the picture. You can include the person's relationship to you in parenthesis. These are things I started to do after 9-11. Because of "what ifs."

* A mantra

Do you have a mantra in your pocket? We recite or think of mantras to get us psyched and keep us motivated during a race. They are especially handy during the unexpected bumps in the road. If you get hurt during the race. Don't panic. Remain calm. Remember...

"Everything in the universe is within you. Ask all of yourself." 

- Rumi

2012 NYC ING Marathon Countdown 5 days: Carbs and Candles

There are two things most people will say they can do without carbs and candles.

Whenever someone goes on a diet the first thing they will say they are cutting out are the carbs. It is the one thing most experts agree can effectively help with weight loss and management, more so than avoiding fats. Studies also show that less carbohydrates in a diet versus cutting calories will help you lose the most weight. (Men's Fitness: Cut Carbs, Not Calories).

It is inevitable, especially if you are a woman or for guys if you throw a house warming party, that someone will give you a candle. Perhaps they went as far as getting you one that is not just of the fragrant sort because they know you love the smell of vanilla, oranges, apples, cinnamon, honey suckle, etc. but, a hand crafted work of art like this...

http://www.theoriginalcandleman.com

or, this....

Live Long, and Prosper!

that you will never burn, but keep on your mantle for show or as a conversational piece.

If you are training for a 1/2 marathon, marathon or ultra run, you shouldn't be cutting carbs but loading up on them big time at least 2 to 3 days before your race. You can get your carbohydrate fix from healthy foods; fruits (without the skin), grains, cereals, pasta and more.

Check out "Fil 'Er Up," by Dimity McDowell, Runner's World for more tips.

I started to increase my carbohydrate intake last week but starting to seriously carbo-load to get ready for the marathon today.

Breakfast: A peanut butter sandwich (whole wheat bread) and a bowl of farina with chia seeds (1 tablespoon), bananas (half, saved the other half for a snack) and a splash of non-dairy creamer.

Hydration is also important, so after my tea I had some water.

Lunch and dinner will each consist of a pasta dish.

In between snacks, strawberries, bananas and cereal.

In preparation for the arrival of hurricane Sandy, I scrounged around for candles over the weekend.

In my spring and summer cleanings I remember seeing some, I just don't remember where. I am not a candle lover, except when they are on birthday cakes or used in holiday celebrations or other festivities. Having experienced blackouts in the past I always keep a few in case something happens to the flashlights. Ahaa, in the tool box they were, the last place I expected.

Hurricane Sandy has left many without power. The first choice for lighting should ALWAYS be flash lights. If you do not have a flash light there are flash light applications that you can download to your cell phone. Do a quick search and try one. They work by using the flash on your cell phone. If you absolutely must use candles, please follow the following safety tips in their use.

• Be sure that the candles are fitted in the candle holders securely. They should not be loose or wobble. The last thing you want is to have the candle fall off the holder and start a fire. You, are better off being in the dark with just window light than risk that (go to sleep early). Melt a little wax in the holder before putting in the candle and hold the candle until it sticks.

• Never, ever, ever, leave a candle unattended, in the reach of small children or pets!

• If you are going to take a nap, go to sleep or feel like you may doze off... CANDLE LIGHTS OUT!

• If you are going to leave your home, even if you think it will not be long, you are just going to the corner to get some milk... CANDLE LIGHTS OUT!  

• If you are leaving a room... CANDLE LIGHTS OUT!

• Candles should be clear of combustibles; curtains, books, papers on a desk or coffee table, furniture, ETC.

• Be careful when lighting candles. Ladies be careful of your long hair. Guys careful of your long hair and beards.

• Never, ever, ever, leave a candle unattended, in the reach of small children or pets!

• The holders you use should not be made of a flammable material, shatter in heat easily or conduct heat easily. For example if you do not have a candle holder you do not want to put the candle in any old glass (wine or champagne glass), an aluminum tray or can.

For our emergency preparedness we put the candles in corning bowls which we would add a little water to as well as an extra preventive measure.

 Here are some more tips from Clark County Fire District 6 for more info click here.

• Keep candle wicks trimmed to one-quarter inch.

• Extinguish candles when they burn down to within two inches of their holder or any decorative   material. 

• Extinguish candles carefully. Do not leave the room until wicks have stopped glowing.

• Do not leave children unattended in a room with a lit candle. 

• Don't use a candle for light when adding kerosene or any flammable fuel to a heater, lantern, or other device. The flame could ignite the fumes.

Be Safe Everyone!

2012 NYC ING Marathon Countdown 7 Days: 3.76 Charity Miles, Looking Back at My First Long Run

Today was recovery run day. Just a short run. Not more than 4 miles. No running longer than 40 minutes.

I decided to run a route I plotted on MapQuest when I started to get into running 5 years ago. Back then I just ran on my own. I didn't know about sneaker choices, running styles, training programs for beginners like the C25K (Coach to 5K), gear, nutrition, clubs, or the multitude of apps out there, like MapMyRun. All extremely helpful to help you get on and stay on your running track. I plotted points on MapQuest to figure out how long my treks would be. I started with just a mile and added a half mile every week or every other week. I remember how I struggled just to run a quarter mile. "If I can just get up to Taco Bell," I remember thinking, "then I will take a short walk break." I never stopped for a Taco. It was just the best stopping point. One block further than Carvel, which may have tempted me to stop in and get a strawberry coated vanilla cone and head back home.

When I got to a mile I was ecstatic. I continued my loop back home to complete a 2-mile trek. What a workout! My thighs hurt. My shins hurt. My feet hurt. All this pain, for what? To try to be a runner? Who was I kidding. Who thinks about getting into running after they push 40-something(s). The avoidance monster would smother the calls of the running/fitness muse and I would stop trekking for a week or more before I heeding to her call again.

As I trekked up the boulevard I was surprised how light and easily I was jogging. I could not but smile the entire way. My knee is still a little tender and I was not going fast, but compared to the me a few years ago, "Wow!" I was really having so much fun! I was enjoying the sights along the way. Fall leaves blanketing lawns, pumpkins on steps.

Fall leaves on a neighbor's lawn. I just wanted to jump in.

I love this quote by Rumi, "What you seek is seeking you." And, today it was very apropos. I never thought I would be in a marathon, I really just wanted to be able to run the route I plotted 5 years ago without a hitch, be able to do that a few days a week and I did it! 

I have been as consistent and committed to my fitness as I can be. If I can't run I jog. If I can't jog I walk. If I have to mix it up, I mix it up; fartleks, interval training. 

I made a promise to myself to do Charity Miles every day from October 2nd, until I cross the finish line at the marathon next Sunday, barring some extreme event or physical condition that would prevent me from running, jogging or walking. You know how we promise to do things, but when it is just to ourselves it is easier to slip than when we promise to do something for others, for once I did not slip. My commitment was inspired by my Mom, others who have Parkinson's and my support for the Micheal J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research but also for me. Because without yourself in the picture, when you run or walk or do other activities inspired by or for a charity or for someone you love, the picture is not complete.

Luck number 7- days to the ING!

2012 NYC ING Marathon Countdown 11 Days: There is a STAR at every Start

Last Friday the physical therapist said I could start working out using elliptical devices and bicycles. "You can still get your cardio workout without impact to your knees". So yesterday, I went to the gym and worked out on both for about 15 minutes each. I was a little envious of the guy on the treadmill next do me doing super star bad ass sprints (Fartleks). With the marathon less than 2 weeks away I wondered if just doing elliptical and cycling workouts would get me ready.

I repeated the "slow and steady" mantra over and over as the large pedals beneath collapsed and rose with the weight and counter weight of my foot presses. Staring at the digital monitor over the device prompting me to select Login to save my workout details, watch some TV or check out some tunes I notice these five letters in the center of the display.

S-T-A-R-T. How many times have my eyes glossed over it? How many start buttons have I pressed or passed to press in my life? Hundreds? Thousands? Hundred thousands?

S-T-A-R-T. Five simple letters that rule our life from infancy. He started to crawl today. She started kindergarten today. Did you start your homework? When does your vacation start? I need to start over. I'll start it for you. When are you going to start? I am at the start are you coming yet? He is always starting some new project. Shh the concert has started!

I love when announcers call out, "Gentleman start your engines," at the start of an auto race, and the sound of the gun pops at the start of a track event.

But, love more that there is a 4 letter word hidden in this 5-letter word. S-T-A-R!

As I got deeper into my elliptical groove focusing on the S-T-A-R in S-T-A-R-T the little green monster dissipated in the cool gym air, filled with everyone's life breaths and sweat. I appreciated that my neighbor was was doing his super STAR sprints. Way to go dude! And, how the woman next to me was on fire with her elliptical foot presses.

How often d'o we forget that as there are an infinite number of stars in the skies there are also an infinite number of stars here on earth. No two starts are alike. They shine in their own brilliant splendor. There is one in each and every one of us. We just have to look deeper.

As I pause to greet mine, my muse whispers,

My gym inspirations. It's not just the body that's getting a good workout!

I know I am not alone and there are many newbies to marathon running going through the change in mood from I think I can to I know I can throughout training. You can never have too many things in your motivational arsenal to keep you going.

"No matter what you do, with every new undertaking or race... Remember, there is a STAR at every start. That Star is You. Reach for it and let it shine until you reach the finish!"

2012 NYC ING Marathon Countdown 13 Lucky Days: What's in a Number?

When you hear the word number(s) the first thing that comes to mind may be:

At times numbers can be Twilight-zonish

Images like this connoting confusion and complexity. Perhaps you are thinking of Pi=3.14159 which is an irrational number (numbers have been known to cause some to become irrational about them) and it is also a transcendental number (thinking of what you would do if you won the Mega Million, Power Ball, Scratch off, or other Lottery? Maybe you are thinking of going on a 365-day-permanent vacation, buying a new or first home, a giant engagement ring, hiring a maid, a butler, and personal assistant or taking the trip of a lifetime to outer space on Virgin Galactic- you have just been transcended to another place. What magic these numbers have!).

If you have been bitten by number mania (Is there a better expression for one who loves numbers than number maniac? I couldn't google one.) and mystery you may be thinking of the hit TV series spelled Numb3rs. Yes, Numb3rs and numbers everywhere can solve anything! It just takes a little time. And who doesn't like a hot or spicy number?

Hot & Spice & Everything Nice. That's what Numb3rs are made of!

Even if you are one who says, "I don't like numbers!" You must make your peace with them. Numbers are the roommates, family, friends and others that influence us the most, often without our full awareness and perhaps at times agreement.

What time is it? A: A number(s).

How old are you now? A: It's my birthday, ask me tomorrow I want to be happy today? (A number(s)).

What is your weight? What is your HDL & LDL? What did you get on the SAT's, GRE's? Answers: A number(s).

During my training leading up to the marathon, I spoke with others training about pace, distance, number of repeats, reps, time for recovery, percentage increase in workouts week over week, target and maximum heart rate.

While talking to other barefoot, minimalist runners I learned about drop. My New Balance Minimus have a zero drop which means my heel is at the same plane as the front of my foot unlike other running shoes that have a raised heel (2:1 or some other ratio). And, music which is a series of notes in number, and a most welcome accompaniment on long runs.

Numbers are sometimes considered lucky. Lucky number 7. Or, unlucky as in 13. But, today I feel that 13 is my lucky number. My knee is finally feeling better. It does not lock or hurt when I turn to walk left. In 13 days I will trek 26.2 miles or 42.16481 kilometers, in a fox custom (you know you want to see that!) to continue my NYC Half Marathon efforts to raise funds and awareness for TEAM FOX. I am about 25% of my goal. I know with the support of my family, friends (the numbers in my life that I heart- Yes I heart you #'s), I will get to 101%.

To lend your support please click on this link  Mo's Marathon Fundraising for Team Fox 

My deepest thanks to all who have already.

2012 NYC ING Marathon Countdown 17 days: Knowledge is Power!

"Knowledge of what is possible,

 is the beginning of happiness."

-George Santayana

2012 NYC ING Marathon Countdown 21 Days: Back to the Tried, Tested and True in Running Shoes

It's just 21 days to the Marathon. Where did the time go? I feel like it was just yesterday when I announced to family and friends "I'm in!" I guess the training days went by so quickly, because I was really having fun!

My longest run to date was 18.76M 14 days ago. I pushed myself a bit but scanning my notes of what I had been doing up that point in my training, what I eat the day before a long run, amount of rest, workouts during the week, pace etc. I found that the the one variable that was different, that may have lead to my hurting my knee was as simple as not wearing the same running shoes I had been wearing all along. I did not know then what I know now about not changing into new running shoes with less than 5 weeks before a marathon. I will add this DO NOT change the type of running shoe you are used to running to something very different. I have been transitioning from sneakers with a lot of support to minimalist ones that have a more barefoot feel for over a year and a half and did all my marathon training in either my Puma H-Street for short runs up to 6M or New Balance Minimus for anything longer.

I am known to run in just my stocking feet for up to 5 miles and will do the occasional full barefoot run. I got into barefoot running by chance. I forgot my sneakers on a business trip so I ran in just my socks on the treadmill at the hotel gym and enjoyed it. I was on the mend from an ankle fracture. All of my PT was in bare feet. Something about the barefoot run just felt more comfortable for me. As time progressed, the shin splints, fallen arches and other issues I had improved. I did my research on barefoot running before looking for and joining a barefoot running group (Barefoot Runners NYC). I got excellent tips on running form from the group's organizers and more experienced members. So, what made me want to change to a running shoe that had a higher wedge and additional support (a pair of Puma's I have that are similar to the Puma 550)? Listening to others about the logic of wearing running shoes with more support and believing that as a newbie to marathon running this would be the best. But, was not the best at this stage in the game.

I love my daughter's catch phrase, "You do you!" Short for "Be Yourself!" "Don't do things just because others are doing them," etcetera, etcetera. Somethings may work for me others may work for you. So, "You do you. Man" "You do you!" Thanks, Krystal for you regular reminders!

Running in his barefeet because there were no more Adidas running shoes in his size, Abebe Bikila gets the gold in the 1960 Olympic Marathon.

A side can be taken pro or con barefoot running, pro or con wearing running shoes of one type, brand or another. Just as you listen to your body to stop when you feel you have run enough or push when you feel you can go an extra mile, choose the footwear that feels just right for you. This will help reduce your, risk of injury in addition to good training and conditioning.

This weekend  those training for the ING Marathon will be doing their last long run before tapering down until race day. Generally 20 to 22 miles depending on if it is their first time running a marathon or not. It is my first so I should be doing 20 miles.Yesterday, my daughter and I trekked 3.3 miles of which we jogged .75 miles while our other J.K.O. teammates ran. It was one very fine Fall day. Today should be just as great.

I want to get to the start of the marathon healthy and ready to rock, so I am not pushing it! In a few hours I will head out in my old faithfuls, my NB Minimus and trek the mode and distance that is just right for me :)

Stepping UP! The Charity Miles 26 Day Challenge

About a month ago while waiting with a J.K.O. Running teammate for others to arrive for our weekly evening run, a gentleman asked if we were doing "Charity Miles." There are many groups of charities that meet to run in Central Park regularly, most notably Team in Training and Achilles International. I thought to myself "Charity Miles" must be another one. "No we are not doing Charity Miles," I replied, "What is it?" Gene, the founder of Charity Miles who was in the park to run with others that day, proceeded to tell us about this app he created for Android and I-Phones which allows people to raise money for a charity while they walk, run or bike.

Can you imagine that? Raising money for a charity while you are just enjoying a walk in the park with your dogs? Earn 25-cents/mile if you walk or run or 10-cents/mile if you bike.

The Charity Miles app took moments to install and I have been using it ever since. I love that it keeps a history of my workouts. By tapping on the bar graph icon on the bottom left of the start menu, you can view details of the last 20 you completed; distance, time, whether you selected to walk, run or cycle, the charity and impact.

 

The impact for each charity will be different. For example, for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research or Autism Speaks, the impact will be funding for minutes of research, for Habitat for Humanity a number of pieces of lumber and for the ASPCA a number of puppy and kitten vaccinations.

If you turn your phone horizontally you will see a bar graph showing the miles you trekked during the last 7 days. You can scroll the history to your first Charity Miles workout by tapping on the right arrow.

The app tracks the distance via the GPS on your cell. You will get an email confirmation with details of your Charity Miles impact along with an attachment of a map showing where you trekked. An added bonus if you do not already have a tool to map your runs.

To use the Charity Miles app you do need to have a Facebook account and to have your workout sponsored to support the charity you selected share a post on your feed. For those who do not have or want to have a Facebook account this is the only drawback of the app. There is an option to tweet as well, but it is not necessary to have your workout sponsored.

The Charity Miles Challenge- Just 1 Mile a day for 26 Days during the month of October - Welcome Fall!

I have been using the Charity Miles app since I installed if for my runs. With the NYC ING Marathon a few weeks away I have been thinking of ways to step up my workouts. Charity Miles sent an email to subscribers on Monday regarding its marathon challenge for the month of October. Trek a minimum of one mile a day for 26 days during the month of October and win a Charity Miles tee shirt.

Since my mother has Parkinson's Disease I decided that I would step up the challenge by logging in Charity Miles every day until, I cross the ING Marathon finish for the Micheal J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. I decided that on the days I do not log in a run, I will log in a walk. For those of you looking for a way to stay fit but cannot find time, consider this, depending on the speed of your walk, whether you are carrying anything etc. you can cover one mile in 25 minutes or less. If you don't have time in the morning, do it later in the day. Set a side some time during a lunch break. Walk to run errands if you can instead of going in your car whenever you can. Get families, friends, co-workers, into the action. The app is FREE and remember #EveryMileMatters.

Singing in the rain or shine, tired or not, I am enjoying skipping the bus and walking home from the train. For Mom :)

 

 

How to Run by The SF Marathon

Running Is... An inspirational thought by Molly Barker

SF Marathon 2012! Definite Maybe!

Once Upon a Time Hurdles: Colgate Women's Games

We all like to save and collect things. Sometimes it can seem like too much, especially from an outsiders perspective, (that would be anyone but to the saver collector-you). "What do you have in those boxes?" "What do you have in the attic?" "What do you have in the basement?" "What do you have in the closet?" And, a part of you has to wonder, "Do you, even remember?" Besides skeletons in the closet, from last year's Halloween decor, do you, remember what you have?

As a parent I am guilty, like many of having a box of assorted memorabilia from my daughter's early years. First notebook from her preschool days at a Mommy & Me Program I helped lead at a local church. First Kindergarten notebook, and finger painting. I remember those days she would come home all excited to show me what she did in school. "Look what I made Mommy." And, busy with homework. Her first science fair project on how the knee works. Its gold medal sticker a little torn because a jealous boy peeled it up. I was so proud of her. How many children in first grade carry a copy of Gray's Anatomy in their back pack to school.

I  kept her first Halloween costume from when she was 3. She wanted to be a mermaid. What little girl did not love or want to be Ariel? So, I made her her a long green shirt that was shaped like a fin. I also kept the first costume she helped make herself from Kindergarten. She wanted to be the butterfly from Eric Carle's The Very Hungry Caterpillar for the Costume Parade at school. The wings did not fit in the box but they folded nicely into a portfolio with my drawings and illustrations.

I have the first 2 teeth she pulled herself. I never had to worry about pulling any teeth, except in the teen years to get a conversation going, she was more than happy with the D.I.Y tooth pulling approach. Love that independent spirit. Baby shoes, a couple of baby outfits, a collectible Barbie watch and doll, and a few papers she wrote that got A's, and other mementos are in that box in the closet too. One day, I may forget what is in it. One day she may help me go through it and other assorted papers and things I may have as I helped my mom yesterday. And, maybe she will be pleasantly surprised to find find something that triggers a fond memory of her past. As this certificate my mother kept did for me.

I was in Junior High School when I was first interested in doing some running competitively thanks to one of my best friends from elementary school. Up to that point I enjoyed sprinting when there was a chance during gym classes or racing my brothers down the block. I was good with short spurts of winded energy. I had always enjoyed watching the Olympic track and field events and loved to watch the marathon. How in the world someone could run so long so fast I had no idea. But, for a few weeks I got to enjoy competing in 55-meter hurdles, 55 and 200-meter runs at the Colgate Women's Games and dreaming of one day doing more.

My friend and I did not belong to a track club. Participation in track clubs cost money that was not in the family budget at the time. So we trained together after school. She would run to my home to meet me. I would run back to hers and back home. She was fast. I did what I could to keep up with her. I really just wanted to do hurdles. That was going to be my specialty. I practiced for hurdles by jumping chain linked fences. I was doing that on dares with other kids for some time anyway. All I had to do was imagine myself jumping higher. I had no idea what to expect when we got to the games. But the girls on teams and others were more than helpful in sharing tips and I flew by my first round on the 55 meter hurdles. The rest is a blur. I just remember coming home tired.

I don't know if the Colgate Women's Game certificate of participation came in the mail or if it was given to me at the end of the games. But, I am happy that my Mom kept it among other things, after all these years. With 2 months to go to the NYC ING Marathon, I am excited and a little nervous. I never thought in a million years that the day would come that I would be able to say, I am going to do a marathon. Like the NYC Half, I will be running my first marathon with a Team Fox jersey on. I am looking forward to making it across the finish line and putting any certificate I get in a frame next to this after showing it to my Mom.

P.S. My fundraising effort is still going on please click here for more info and to donate. Many thanks.