Sunday was beautiful and the day was just fantastic. The folks at the Dam Half/Dam Full were wonderful. It was a very well run event. Even better than last year ! Thanks folks!
I really did not know what kind of shape I was in for the Dam Full, but I figured that I should be good as long as I kept moving forward. The hills were just what I expected, but the company was great and I got through the 1/2 way point (13.1 miles) in 2 hours and 42 minutes. To put some perspective on this, last year I did the half marathon event and my time was 2:32. So, I was going a little faster than expected, but not overly much so. I began to think that my expectation of finishing close to 7 hours might be way over.
Then, as they say, the wheels fell off.
Not really, all was still good until about mile 22. I think I should have stuck with Gatorade and taken some electrolyte tabs because I got a terrible headache and my belly began to, shall we say, sour. I never actually got sick, but the same feelings I have at hour 13 of the 30 hour run came flooding back. I walked VERY slowly up the Stairway to Heaven - it climbs about 700 vertical feet in a little more than half a mile - and was pleased to make it to the top. Unfortunately, I got passed by about a dozen people during the climb.
Throughout the day I played leapfrog with a few guys and one in particular expected me to bomb the downhill the way I had been doing all day and catch him. Alas, it was not to be. I even quit looking at my watch as the wee thought of finishing under 6 hours seemed to slink away. I decided that I had left most everything out there and would just focus on running reasonably comfortably to the finish. As it turned out I crossed the line just over 6 hours in 6:01.
. . .
I left a big pause in my typing - several days to be exact, but I just wanted to say a huge thanks to all the volunteers at the dam full for a fantastic day. Next up is the MegaTransect in Castanea.
Next year maybe the Grand Slam ??
An ultra-distance fundraising effort for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Ready? or Not.
It has been over a month since I have posted, but I will give you a really good reason (excuse). I want to write, journal-like, to my wife and kids and I have not been doing this. I really intend on doing this and, day after day I avoid it. I realize that these entries need not be perfect in any way, but it is most important I get my thoughts, wanderings and wonderings recorded for them to read later. I figured since I wasn't doing it for them, then I shouldn't be doing it for you. Of course, the other side of that is that I can keep this blog and then everyone can read what is running through my mind. Oh well, I'm here now and intend to get something out there for whatever reason or purpose.
So, the running has been tough lately. I am still getting out several times a week, but the distances are not great. I typically run 5 to 7 miles with one double digit run each week. It is not that I am out of shape, but I'm not sure I'm ready for the Dam Full which is coming up in just 12 days. Tapering? Who needs to taper if you don't get tired in the first place? I am looking forward to the event because the food was great and the race was well organized when I did the half last year. The volunteers really enjoy themselves and it shows in the great way that they treat the participants.
I've been listening to a lot of New Spring sermons and they are really hitting home. Saved people serve. Found people find people. These sermons can get you convicted, so listen with caution !
Megatransect is less than a month away and I hope the weather is nice. I am looking forward to a great day with fantastic support from the volunteers. Get out and enjoy the beautiful fall weather.
So, the running has been tough lately. I am still getting out several times a week, but the distances are not great. I typically run 5 to 7 miles with one double digit run each week. It is not that I am out of shape, but I'm not sure I'm ready for the Dam Full which is coming up in just 12 days. Tapering? Who needs to taper if you don't get tired in the first place? I am looking forward to the event because the food was great and the race was well organized when I did the half last year. The volunteers really enjoy themselves and it shows in the great way that they treat the participants.
I've been listening to a lot of New Spring sermons and they are really hitting home. Saved people serve. Found people find people. These sermons can get you convicted, so listen with caution !
Megatransect is less than a month away and I hope the weather is nice. I am looking forward to a great day with fantastic support from the volunteers. Get out and enjoy the beautiful fall weather.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
In the Groove
I think I am back in the saddle again. I've been running most every other day and have ridden the bike most of the other days. I have even done 1 day of, wait for it, speedwork! Hard to believe, but it is true. I did intervals in the woods. It was really more of a fartlek workout, but that is the most I've done for speed in years.
I have been debating doing the Tussey Mountainback or another event this fall, besides the MegaTransect of course. The advantage of Tussey is that it is 50 miles. The downside is it is basically roads. Last year, I did the Dam Half in R.B. Winter State Park. Yesterday, I signed up for the Dam Full. It is a full marathon on the trails. I was very impressed with the organization of the race last year and the care for the runners afterwards. Besides the great food, the dip in the lake was awesome!
Thanks to Chris and Leslie and to Bob for the great support of the JDRF run. It is so nice to see new people hitting the blog each day and making donations!
God is so good! I hope that I can give Him glory in all if my efforts!
I have been debating doing the Tussey Mountainback or another event this fall, besides the MegaTransect of course. The advantage of Tussey is that it is 50 miles. The downside is it is basically roads. Last year, I did the Dam Half in R.B. Winter State Park. Yesterday, I signed up for the Dam Full. It is a full marathon on the trails. I was very impressed with the organization of the race last year and the care for the runners afterwards. Besides the great food, the dip in the lake was awesome!
Thanks to Chris and Leslie and to Bob for the great support of the JDRF run. It is so nice to see new people hitting the blog each day and making donations!
God is so good! I hope that I can give Him glory in all if my efforts!
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Slow, but Sure
I returned to the run on July 1 and have been pretty consistent at every other day. Off days I have ben on the bike more often than not. For once, the consistency is the good part. The distances have not been overwhelmingly impressive. The runs have varied from 3 to 6.5 miles, with most around 5 or 6. It is hard to believe that 2 months ago that was the warmup for my workout. I am sure I will be extending that into double digits this week (If I write it I have to do it, right?), as well as doing some interval work to increase the tempo of the runs. I realize it is mind over matter, and I just have to learn not to mind so much.
I have been spending a fair amount of time in Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh. My dad had surgery to bypass part of his aorta and both femoral arteries. The poor circulation is prevalent in his family and so I have to keep up the activity and make good diet choices to try and fend this off as much as possible. The family lives into their 80's, but does not live actively, so motivation shouldn't be in short supply.
Pray for healing for my dad. I ask this spiritually as well as physically. I presented the Gospel to him yesterday and hope that he will see that Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. It was much easier to talk once I got started, but the fear of talking about saving faith has stopped me many times. My friend Dan used to ask if I was more afraid of letting someone go to Hell or of offending them here on earth. It seems easy when you say it that way, but a lot more difficult when you are face to face with someone. The big thing is everybody lives forever, it just depends on whether you live in Paradise with God, or in eternal misery with Satan. Think about it. If you have questions check out these sites
What is a Christian?
Becoming a Christian
Romans 5:6-8 . . . You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. 8But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
I have been spending a fair amount of time in Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh. My dad had surgery to bypass part of his aorta and both femoral arteries. The poor circulation is prevalent in his family and so I have to keep up the activity and make good diet choices to try and fend this off as much as possible. The family lives into their 80's, but does not live actively, so motivation shouldn't be in short supply.
Pray for healing for my dad. I ask this spiritually as well as physically. I presented the Gospel to him yesterday and hope that he will see that Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. It was much easier to talk once I got started, but the fear of talking about saving faith has stopped me many times. My friend Dan used to ask if I was more afraid of letting someone go to Hell or of offending them here on earth. It seems easy when you say it that way, but a lot more difficult when you are face to face with someone. The big thing is everybody lives forever, it just depends on whether you live in Paradise with God, or in eternal misery with Satan. Think about it. If you have questions check out these sites
What is a Christian?
Becoming a Christian
Romans 5:6-8 . . . You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. 8But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Back to it Soon
I've been off my feet for over a month now. Maybe it would be better to say that I've been off my feet for about 10 pounds now. That is how much I have gained since the run. I have been riding my bike here and there, but no consistency. It is time to head back to the roads and trails and begin the process of comparing for the MegaTransect and Tussey MountainBack. I had actually considered trying to do the Mega twice in one day, but then realized that I would miss the social gathering afterward. I don't want to do that!
For those asking whether it is too late to donate . . . NO WAY !!
I have still been getting a donation periodically and these have been much appreciated. I know I still have a couple on the way as matching gifts. The money spends just as well now as it did a month ago :)
If you are one of those who told me to keep bugging you to reming you to donate, watch out. I'm coming, just like the tax amnesty program. I know who you are and I will visit you !
I'll keep you posted on the recovery progress.
For those asking whether it is too late to donate . . . NO WAY !!
I have still been getting a donation periodically and these have been much appreciated. I know I still have a couple on the way as matching gifts. The money spends just as well now as it did a month ago :)
If you are one of those who told me to keep bugging you to reming you to donate, watch out. I'm coming, just like the tax amnesty program. I know who you are and I will visit you !
I'll keep you posted on the recovery progress.
Friday, June 4, 2010
2 weeks later . . . recovering
Sorry I haven't posted anything new for the last couple of weeks. I'm not sure why, just that each time I sat down to type, I found that I wanted to go and do things with Molly and/or the kids. They put up with me being out running so much for the month or so before the event, I feel like I have been missing too much.
Many of you know that I had an absolutely fantastic time during the run. I've tried to thank everyone who helped to get me going, keep me going, and who went along with me. I never ran with fewer than 3 people from 6 PM until the arrival at the stadium. It made it so much easier to not be moving alone.
So how about a recap, at least as best as I can remember things. Those that were there can feel free to correct me, I will use time and tiredness as my excuses :)
The school visits were great. The kids asked great questions and were so supportive. I missed a turn on the bike trail between Houserville and LeMont and ended up running Pike Street. Word of wisdom - never do this. I was good most of the time, but had one very close call with a fast moving car that cut the turn way too sharply. If you are driving through LeMont, please slow down.
Around the time that Clinton, my nephew, and I got back to the CMA church, several people arrived to offer encouragement and much needed attention. Gregg treated my sore quads and the only other pain I was having was at the base of my right shin. This would prove to be a problem throughout the run, but didn't stop us from moving forward. The roller that Gregg used was amazing and allowed for lots more miles.
The roughest time of the run was between 9 PM and 10 PM. I was really at a low energy spot and felt sick in my stomach with every bite I tried to take. After about 20 minutes of sitting, nibbling, and drinking, I set out for a walk with several folks accompanying me. Molly made John, Pat, and Tim promise to take good care of me before she left and they did a great job. We walked and ate for a couple loops and then we got moving again at a nice pace. The walk was at a pretty good pace, between 13 and 15 minute miles, but it felt good to get close to 10 minute miles for a while.
I had such great company through the night that I couldn't belie how quickly the dark hours passed. Before I knew it, the Lutz boys and Tim were taking me into the daylight. The only thing that slowed me was that rascally shin. The quads and stomach had been dealt with early.
At about 9:30, we started for the stadium and passed through 100 miles along the way. Molly and the boys had driven ahead to meet me and share this milestone with me. I'm so glad they were there. I was so happy to finally get there, but realized that I had promised to go 30 hours, not 100 miles. The best was yet to come.
I simply can not explain the amazing reception that awaited me at Lubrano Park. All of the JDRF walkers, committee members and many others applauded and made me feel so special. Even now, I don't know how to explain the overwhelming feeling I had to have so many honor me so much. All I can say is thank you.
We don't have a final total for either the run support or the overall State College walk, but both are really wonderful. The run total will be over $10,000. In large part thanks to the kids at school. They raised $1002.25 !! The walk total will be near $65,000, nearly double last year's total. This is good news for researchers and better news for those who might never need know the hassles and negative consequences of diabetes.
On Sunday, my shin had swelled pretty well despite icing, and I visited the doctor in the afternoon. Not unexpectedly, I was diagnosed with a stress fracture. I am taking it easy and plan to lay off from running for about a month. I hope to get on the bike this weekend. It is a fibular stress fracture, so is not a weight bearing bone. I'm off crutches and am feel quite good. If I hadn't seen x-rays that showed the problem, I am certain I would be running already. But, the MegaTransect and the Tussey 50 miler are coming, so I want to be ready. Rest now, enjoy later.
Once again, thanks to everyone. I can't say it enough, you all helped me to do something I only dreamed possible. God Bless.
Many of you know that I had an absolutely fantastic time during the run. I've tried to thank everyone who helped to get me going, keep me going, and who went along with me. I never ran with fewer than 3 people from 6 PM until the arrival at the stadium. It made it so much easier to not be moving alone.
So how about a recap, at least as best as I can remember things. Those that were there can feel free to correct me, I will use time and tiredness as my excuses :)
The school visits were great. The kids asked great questions and were so supportive. I missed a turn on the bike trail between Houserville and LeMont and ended up running Pike Street. Word of wisdom - never do this. I was good most of the time, but had one very close call with a fast moving car that cut the turn way too sharply. If you are driving through LeMont, please slow down.
Around the time that Clinton, my nephew, and I got back to the CMA church, several people arrived to offer encouragement and much needed attention. Gregg treated my sore quads and the only other pain I was having was at the base of my right shin. This would prove to be a problem throughout the run, but didn't stop us from moving forward. The roller that Gregg used was amazing and allowed for lots more miles.
The roughest time of the run was between 9 PM and 10 PM. I was really at a low energy spot and felt sick in my stomach with every bite I tried to take. After about 20 minutes of sitting, nibbling, and drinking, I set out for a walk with several folks accompanying me. Molly made John, Pat, and Tim promise to take good care of me before she left and they did a great job. We walked and ate for a couple loops and then we got moving again at a nice pace. The walk was at a pretty good pace, between 13 and 15 minute miles, but it felt good to get close to 10 minute miles for a while.
I had such great company through the night that I couldn't belie how quickly the dark hours passed. Before I knew it, the Lutz boys and Tim were taking me into the daylight. The only thing that slowed me was that rascally shin. The quads and stomach had been dealt with early.
At about 9:30, we started for the stadium and passed through 100 miles along the way. Molly and the boys had driven ahead to meet me and share this milestone with me. I'm so glad they were there. I was so happy to finally get there, but realized that I had promised to go 30 hours, not 100 miles. The best was yet to come.
I simply can not explain the amazing reception that awaited me at Lubrano Park. All of the JDRF walkers, committee members and many others applauded and made me feel so special. Even now, I don't know how to explain the overwhelming feeling I had to have so many honor me so much. All I can say is thank you.
We don't have a final total for either the run support or the overall State College walk, but both are really wonderful. The run total will be over $10,000. In large part thanks to the kids at school. They raised $1002.25 !! The walk total will be near $65,000, nearly double last year's total. This is good news for researchers and better news for those who might never need know the hassles and negative consequences of diabetes.
On Sunday, my shin had swelled pretty well despite icing, and I visited the doctor in the afternoon. Not unexpectedly, I was diagnosed with a stress fracture. I am taking it easy and plan to lay off from running for about a month. I hope to get on the bike this weekend. It is a fibular stress fracture, so is not a weight bearing bone. I'm off crutches and am feel quite good. If I hadn't seen x-rays that showed the problem, I am certain I would be running already. But, the MegaTransect and the Tussey 50 miler are coming, so I want to be ready. Rest now, enjoy later.
Once again, thanks to everyone. I can't say it enough, you all helped me to do something I only dreamed possible. God Bless.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
The Day After Yesterday
I had thought several times before, and during, the run about whether I would emerge a changed man. Would I be more patient? More insightful? Believe that I can leap tall buildings in a single bound? As far as I can tell, none of the above is true. What I can tell is that I have many people around me who care deeply about me and who are extremely unselfish in their willingness to help accomplish my goals. I cannot thank these people enough for taking such good care of me during the days and night of my run (and all of the events leading up to it),
Molly, Alice and Jeff, I can never say thank you enough. I know you care about me, you have to, but you don't have to care nearly as much as you do, or do it so well. I really love you, and appreciate you. You all ran a great show and had everything ready to go as needed and to keep me up throughout.
Tim, I've got to say how incredibly glad I am that you were there through the night. I don't make the effort I should as a big brother. I am so very glad that you were able to share this experience with me. It will be something we can always share. In fact, you will probably have to tell me about some of the behind-the-scenes activities and conversations that went on while I was out running or simply out of my head.
Pat, John D., and Pete, thanks for putting up with me all the time, but especially thanks for during this project. You provided exactly the amount of guidance, patience, and provocation as needed. I know some hours were easier than others, or maybe I should say that some were harder than others. It all depends on your point of view.
Gregg, that tool box of yours changed who I was beginning at 6:00 PM and continuing on and on. The roller, conditioner, and liquid energy were just what the doctor ordered.
Ron, Kyle, Clinton, John M., Karen and Mark, Bob, Andy, Bass, Steve M., Steve C.,David G., Joe, Dale, Cody, Jessie, Riley, and Jim, thanks for running, walking, talking, distracting, and encouraging me at all the various points of the day and night. I never experienced the emotional low points I expected because of your enthusiasm, kindness, and generosity.
Thanks to Scott DeShong and Nell Herrmann for getting the kids out to see me during the day. It was wonderful to talk with the kids and extremely motivating during what would have been a very hot and tiring day. Helping students understand diabetes, its causes and effects is a huge part of the purpose of this run. Your enthusiasm is contagious.
Jabco-Maggi Mitsubishi was so generous in providing a support vehicle for Molly to drive. It was so nice to arrive at a site and have a change of clothes, drinks, snacks, and a beautiful smile. The willingness of this dealership to reach out to the community is indicative of the men who own the business.
Bruce, Heath, Rachel, Mary Ellen, and Allison, you are so wonderful! I really enjoyed seeing you smiling faces and hearing your words of encouragement ! The posters you made are wonderful ! I looked at them over and over again throughout the night and morning. Every time I returned to the church was an opportunity to to see them and to get excited all over all over again. I love you so much.
The students at Park Forest Middle School did an awesome job raising funds for JDRF and having a lot of fun at the same time. The way you all embraced this project and supported me is an honor.
Thanks to the Lutz family, the Yeomans family, Beth F., Kathy D., and others (I'll have to add some more here, I'm certain.) for coming to the church or for seeking me out along the course and providing treats, and company for me. Your enthusiasm helped recharge me and keep me going strong.
I'm so thankful to all who helped make this project possible. I'm certain I missed many people, and will try to post another time soon to add to the list.
By the way, we did make over 100 miles in the first 29 hours and I will add a photo taken at the 100 mile point as well as one at the end of 30 hours. The reception I received at Lubrano Park was overwhelming. I am so blessed by Christ my Savior to be honored by all of you.
Stay tuned, I will write more about the experience and the incredible contributions JDRF will receive form the 30-hour run donors in the days and weeks to come. This is too big to quit now.
Molly, Alice and Jeff, I can never say thank you enough. I know you care about me, you have to, but you don't have to care nearly as much as you do, or do it so well. I really love you, and appreciate you. You all ran a great show and had everything ready to go as needed and to keep me up throughout.
Tim, I've got to say how incredibly glad I am that you were there through the night. I don't make the effort I should as a big brother. I am so very glad that you were able to share this experience with me. It will be something we can always share. In fact, you will probably have to tell me about some of the behind-the-scenes activities and conversations that went on while I was out running or simply out of my head.
Pat, John D., and Pete, thanks for putting up with me all the time, but especially thanks for during this project. You provided exactly the amount of guidance, patience, and provocation as needed. I know some hours were easier than others, or maybe I should say that some were harder than others. It all depends on your point of view.
Gregg, that tool box of yours changed who I was beginning at 6:00 PM and continuing on and on. The roller, conditioner, and liquid energy were just what the doctor ordered.
Ron, Kyle, Clinton, John M., Karen and Mark, Bob, Andy, Bass, Steve M., Steve C.,David G., Joe, Dale, Cody, Jessie, Riley, and Jim, thanks for running, walking, talking, distracting, and encouraging me at all the various points of the day and night. I never experienced the emotional low points I expected because of your enthusiasm, kindness, and generosity.
Thanks to Scott DeShong and Nell Herrmann for getting the kids out to see me during the day. It was wonderful to talk with the kids and extremely motivating during what would have been a very hot and tiring day. Helping students understand diabetes, its causes and effects is a huge part of the purpose of this run. Your enthusiasm is contagious.
Jabco-Maggi Mitsubishi was so generous in providing a support vehicle for Molly to drive. It was so nice to arrive at a site and have a change of clothes, drinks, snacks, and a beautiful smile. The willingness of this dealership to reach out to the community is indicative of the men who own the business.
Bruce, Heath, Rachel, Mary Ellen, and Allison, you are so wonderful! I really enjoyed seeing you smiling faces and hearing your words of encouragement ! The posters you made are wonderful ! I looked at them over and over again throughout the night and morning. Every time I returned to the church was an opportunity to to see them and to get excited all over all over again. I love you so much.
The students at Park Forest Middle School did an awesome job raising funds for JDRF and having a lot of fun at the same time. The way you all embraced this project and supported me is an honor.
Thanks to the Lutz family, the Yeomans family, Beth F., Kathy D., and others (I'll have to add some more here, I'm certain.) for coming to the church or for seeking me out along the course and providing treats, and company for me. Your enthusiasm helped recharge me and keep me going strong.
I'm so thankful to all who helped make this project possible. I'm certain I missed many people, and will try to post another time soon to add to the list.
By the way, we did make over 100 miles in the first 29 hours and I will add a photo taken at the 100 mile point as well as one at the end of 30 hours. The reception I received at Lubrano Park was overwhelming. I am so blessed by Christ my Savior to be honored by all of you.
Stay tuned, I will write more about the experience and the incredible contributions JDRF will receive form the 30-hour run donors in the days and weeks to come. This is too big to quit now.
Friday, May 21, 2010
It's Time!
First, let me thank everyone who has helped get things ready for today. Molly, my wife, deserves a huge amount of gratitude for being patient, organized and thorough in getting things prepared for what is going to be a great day.
I haven't posted over the past couple of days as I thought I would. Just too much going on in preparation. Thanks so much to the students and staff at Park Forest Middle School for their kindness and generosity. Yesterday 4 teachers agreed to allow kids to duct tape them to the wall to raise money for JDRF. The kids had a great time and so did the teachers. Over $600 was raised during the lunches.
Finally, before I get ready to head out, I need to say to God be the Glory! He has given me many gifts and allowed me to undertake many challenges. I am so thankful.
There is no stalling now. Time to get this show on the road!
I haven't posted over the past couple of days as I thought I would. Just too much going on in preparation. Thanks so much to the students and staff at Park Forest Middle School for their kindness and generosity. Yesterday 4 teachers agreed to allow kids to duct tape them to the wall to raise money for JDRF. The kids had a great time and so did the teachers. Over $600 was raised during the lunches.
Finally, before I get ready to head out, I need to say to God be the Glory! He has given me many gifts and allowed me to undertake many challenges. I am so thankful.
There is no stalling now. Time to get this show on the road!
Monday, May 17, 2010
running forever
I had a great 10 miler on Saturday morning and feel as ready as I possibly can. The day was perfect and I have to say I hope that Friday is nearly as nice. We went food shopping afterwards and Molly encouraged me to get all the items I thought I might need. Even though I've made several lists and tried to play through the event many times, I still expect to forget something. The good thing is that I will be running in town and will have someone to pick up whatever it is that I need.
This morning was a series of interviews on the stations of Forever Broadcasting. I started off on Majic 99 and then went to WRSC, Froggy 101, and The Bus. The DJs were all great and led me with great questions and encouraged the listeners to check out this website and the walk on Saturday. I hope to see you all there as well.
This morning was a series of interviews on the stations of Forever Broadcasting. I started off on Majic 99 and then went to WRSC, Froggy 101, and The Bus. The DJs were all great and led me with great questions and encouraged the listeners to check out this website and the walk on Saturday. I hope to see you all there as well.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Jabco Generosity
I just had to make a special post tonight about the generosity of Jabco-Maggi Mitsubishi. After sharing their radio advertising time with me to talk about JDRF, they donated $50 for each car that they sold from that Thursday until Saturday at closing. Today, I picked up the check from them and John asked, if Molly would mind driving a new Mitsubishi as a support vehicle on Friday and Saturday. Would we mind?!!?These are some awesome looking cars! I know they are well built because of the reliability ratings by Consumer Reports and because they are willing to back them up with amazing warranties.
There is only one disappointing thing about it - Molly gets to drive and I have to run. Oh well, she is the motorhead in the family anyway!
Thanks so much to John Jabco and Todd Maggi.
There is only one disappointing thing about it - Molly gets to drive and I have to run. Oh well, she is the motorhead in the family anyway!
Thanks so much to John Jabco and Todd Maggi.
One Week to go !
I want to thanks those who have given recently Gwen and Travis, Sandy and Jake, Greg, the Jacobson's, Tracie and Barry, and Pete (again - what a guy!). The kids at school, and their parents, are really getting behind me now with a lot of kind words as well as donations. Many people are asking me the big questions, "Are you ready? How do you think you'll do? Don't you get to take a nap partway through?" Basically the only one I can answer is that no, I don't get to take a break during the run except for the potty and to change clothes. I feel bad for the people who are planning to run with me during the night-time hours, because I expect that I will be moving so slowly. Hopefully, they won't be too disappointed in the effort. My closest friends have said that they understand, they are running a couple hours then taking a break before running again. I will be going the full 30 hours.
The pain of diabetes has been on my mind lately as I've spoken to more people about the run and the disease. I was amazed at the response of the Park Forest Elementary kids. Many of my students and parents I've seen have said how the kids came home and talked to them about diabetes and the run project. This is exactly what I was hoping for when this thing began, getting people more aware, talking about diabetes and its effects. When people get involved personally things happen.
Speaking of being involved, I wish Teri all the best as she heads to Georgia for the Ride for the Cure event this weekend. She and Mark have been great support here and it is awesome of them to make the effort to be involved back in the Atlanta area.
I'm sure this week will hold lots of posts, so stay tuned for more soon!
The pain of diabetes has been on my mind lately as I've spoken to more people about the run and the disease. I was amazed at the response of the Park Forest Elementary kids. Many of my students and parents I've seen have said how the kids came home and talked to them about diabetes and the run project. This is exactly what I was hoping for when this thing began, getting people more aware, talking about diabetes and its effects. When people get involved personally things happen.
Speaking of being involved, I wish Teri all the best as she heads to Georgia for the Ride for the Cure event this weekend. She and Mark have been great support here and it is awesome of them to make the effort to be involved back in the Atlanta area.
I'm sure this week will hold lots of posts, so stay tuned for more soon!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Nerves of Jello
10 days to run day and I'm getting psyched. Yes, I'm certainly excited, and scared as well. I hope that these final days of fund raising go well, I would really like to see the total blossom. I know I've got several friends who are going to come through and some who have been seeking donations from others on my behalf.
I got to speak to the kids at Park Forest Elementary School this afternoon. That was a really neat experience. You would think that, being a teacher, talking to kids would be no big deal. But it was. These kids are younger than I am used to working with and the looks on their faces was wonderful. They seemed to be looking in wonder as I talked about diabetes, its causes and effects, and the duration of the run. I hope that it helps to get them interested in getting involved.
Tim from TRY Chips emailed me today and asked for a photo and bio for their web page. That makes me really happy. I hope that I can be a worthwhile ambassador for all of these folks who have stepped forward to support me.
My brother-in-law, Jeff, and I drove around State College tonight planning the course from school to school. I started working on this so long ago, it seems as though it should be solved, but things are still coming together for which schools I can meet and when. It seems like a long way to go from Park Forest to Mount Nittany Middle School. It used to seem like a long way to run from the house to route 550 as well. Now, the 12 miles home don't seem too bad.
I'm excited that Molly will be following me throughout the day and that lots of others are going to be with me through the evening, night, and morning. I really have a lot of special people in my life. I've said it before and I will say it over again. I am truly blessed.
I got to speak to the kids at Park Forest Elementary School this afternoon. That was a really neat experience. You would think that, being a teacher, talking to kids would be no big deal. But it was. These kids are younger than I am used to working with and the looks on their faces was wonderful. They seemed to be looking in wonder as I talked about diabetes, its causes and effects, and the duration of the run. I hope that it helps to get them interested in getting involved.
Tim from TRY Chips emailed me today and asked for a photo and bio for their web page. That makes me really happy. I hope that I can be a worthwhile ambassador for all of these folks who have stepped forward to support me.
My brother-in-law, Jeff, and I drove around State College tonight planning the course from school to school. I started working on this so long ago, it seems as though it should be solved, but things are still coming together for which schools I can meet and when. It seems like a long way to go from Park Forest to Mount Nittany Middle School. It used to seem like a long way to run from the house to route 550 as well. Now, the 12 miles home don't seem too bad.
I'm excited that Molly will be following me throughout the day and that lots of others are going to be with me through the evening, night, and morning. I really have a lot of special people in my life. I've said it before and I will say it over again. I am truly blessed.
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