OUT FOR BLOOD

Post Race Up-date!

2010-01-20T17:58:00.000-08:00

I know I have been seriously neglecting this blog!! Between school, running, primary and then being a wife and mother I just couldn't keep up! I know have a break so I figure it is time to update everyone on the race and a few other things that have been on my mind.

The night before the race the team gathers at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Houston and we have an "Inspiration Dinner" that allows us to carbo load as well as remember the reason that we running the next day. It always proves to be a wonderful event and a great last celebration for the team. Here is the most of the West Houston/Sugar Land team after the dinner. At the beginning of the season we start with approximately 50-60 people on our team and by the end of the season it really dwindles down. The two reasons for this are 1-that people don't try to fund raise (if you try, I promise you can do it! Team In Training gives you all the resources you need to succeed with your fundraising.) 2- that people get injured. We only had a handful of people who were injured. Obviously this is somewhat expected when training for such and endurance event.

This is Brett and Jericia, they both fundraised and ran their first marathon together for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society! They are amazing people and I am so grateful that I was able to train with them!

After the dinner and socializing we hit the sack pretty early. The previous two years I had trouble sleeping due to nerves but this year I zonked right out!! It was awesome! Come 1am though I was in out of it and didn't get much sleep. Most of it due to paranoia that I was going to miss my 4:45am wake up call and some of it due to sleeping in the same room as my two little beauties. (They aren't the quietest sleepers!)

Come 4:45 I was up and getting ready. We had to meet the team in the hotel lobby at 5:15am. I think I used the restroom 3 times before I left my room! Once in the lobby we took a team picture. This is the entire Texas Gulf Coast Chapter Team that is running in this event. Together we raised over $300,000 for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society!!

I am on the front row with the glowing shoulders. Please remember this is extremely early and we are not looking very perky at this point. Plus all the reflective gear and red eyes are not helping!

Around 5:30 we began the 1 mile walk to the George R Brown Convention Center which right next to the start/finish line. There we checked our bag, took a few more potty breaks and finished up our breakfast. Here is a photo of me with a team mate Dale and one of our awesome coaches, Coach Robert!

Yes, I know this is a scary picture of me!! 4:45 wake up calls are not good to me. And just think how I looked during and after the race if I looked this bad before hand. I will not be ordering any of the brightroom photos from this years race! Ugh!! So around 6:45 we headed to the start line. The Chevron Houston Marathon and Aramco Half Marathon allowed for 22,000 runners and within 48 hours (6 months before the race) it filled up. So needless to say there were a few people out there running that day. Here is a shot of one of the start lines (the half and full have different start lines and meet up at mile 2).

The first have of the race went really well. I felt great and maintained a steady pace that varied only a few seconds for each mile. Coach Robert had convinced me that if you can't run a sub 4 hr marathon then you should do 5/1 intervals. This was especially crucial to me because I have a hard time controlling my energy. I get carried away and go out to fast and don't save anything for the end. The trick is that you have to start this right from the beginning of the race. You can't just start doing it when you get tired. So five minutes into the race, my watch beeped and I walked (as fast as I could mind you) for 1 minute. At first I felt silly as people would pass me but I knew I would catch up as soon as I started running. Around mile 14, where there happens to be a good size hill (from an overpass, after all, this is the city!) people started slowing down and I was still feeling strong so I new that my intervals had paid off. I didn't start hurting till mile 18-19. My legs were really starting to cramp so I pulled out my salt packets that my wonderful coaches had picked up from McDonalds the night before and I gulped them down as soon as I came to the next water stop.

It wasn't until mile 24 that I hit the infamous WALL. In years prior I hit that point around 19-20 so at least this year I only had two more miles to go. The great thing about the Houston marathon is the spectators. There are people lined up along the entire course. They are just awesome. Plus they provide a steady supply of oranges which I find extremely tasty and refreshing! During the last several miles people were holding up signs that said, "Every wall has a door!!" These are great motivators to get you to the finish line. Plus along the last several miles there was a group of belly dancers, several people handing out beer, and of course the song, "Eye of the Tiger" repeatedly being played on loud speakers. Once I could finally see the finish line I just wanted to sprint to end, but, my legs just would not do it. I am able to pick up the pace some, but when watching the finish line video you can see how short my strides really are! The relief that you feel you cross that finish line is indescribable! I wanted to just collapse and sit down but I knew if I did that I would instantly be surrounded by medical personnel and I really did not want that. So I proceeded through the chute, got my medal, mug and finishers shirt and promptly set out to finding my family. On an interesting note, I had medical personnel weigh me before the race and again once I crossed the finish line. I had lost exactly 2 pounds during the race which they said was perfect. They are looking for people who over hydrated and actually gained weight.

I've got finisher photos coming so I'll post those as soon as I get them, but for now I'm going to call it a night. I also want to talk about what my fuel of choice was for the event and a few other things. I promise it won't take me three months to get to those!

Steve's the Man

2009-11-11T04:25:00.000-08:00

I want to send out a big THANK YOU to Steve Kinne of RE/MAX on the Brazos!! Steve has been a very generous donor to The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society over the past several years and I want to tell him thank you for that he has done to help further this cause!
Steve is a realtor for RE/MAX on the Brazos and I tell you what, they just don't come any better than him. Steve has helped several of our friends either buy or sell a home and he has proven time and time again to be the best person to work with. So if you or anyone you know is looking at buying or selling, please give him a call. I personally guarantee that you he will take care of you and all of your needs.

STAY MOTIVATED

2009-10-22T18:40:00.000-07:00

This is a photo of a 14-year-old lymphoma patient and his sister. It was published in a Boston newspaper last month to raise awareness about childhood cancers which sadly does not receive much funding in our nation. This is the caption for the photo...

"AJ Piniewski, age 14, shares a moment with his sister during his last month of treatment for Burkitt's lymphoma in late 2007. AJ's Dad: "AJ was a happy, healthy, athletic young man starting high school. He was diagnosed with Burkitts Lymphoma on Father's Day 2007, and left us on January 5, 2008. He is forever our son and brother and we love him and miss him more than words can describe."

Lets continue to run strong and fight so that no parent has to lose a child to lymphoma.

Time Out

2009-10-21T04:16:00.000-07:00

Right now I am in the middle of mid terms so this blog is on hold for just a minute. In the mean time, here is an excerpt of Dean Karnazes' blog. This book is definitely on my christmas wish list and should be for any runner!

Book Review

Every so often a book comes out that is so luminous, so transformational, so impossibly irreverent, it makes you want to break out in unrestrained laughter. The Runner's Rule Book, by Mark Remy, is one such work.

Chock-full of haughty truism, with such notable chapter headings as: “Before a Race or Long Run, Strong Coffee is Your Best Friend” and “Having a Million Things To Do is an Excuse For Running, Not an Argument Against It,” the book also freely dispenses invaluable counsel: “Look Before You Expel” and “Once a Week, Run Naked.” Though probably my favorite (just slightly ahead of the running naked suggestion), “Be Careful Where and Whom You Ask For Lube.” Hallelujah to the author for that pearl of wisdom!

The Runner’s Rule Book also provides instruction on becoming a true, authentic to the core, runner. Noteworthy lessons include: “Training Plans Must Go on the Fridge,” “Before You Remove New Running Shoes from the Box, You Must First Smell Them,” along with, “Do Whatever it Takes to Finish Ahead of a Costumed Runner.” I would expand this latter chapter to also include anyone kicking a ball or anyone juggling anything.

What I love about this book is that it doesn’t stop at the necessary steps to follow in training and preparation if you want to be known as a bona fide runner, it further dispenses vital insights into racing and competing at your best. For instance: “If You See a Porta Potty With No Line, Use It. Even if You Don’t Need To.”

Then there are also some broader axioms that apply to both running and to life in general: “A Route is a Route When it Becomes a Route,” which kinda reminds me of my college roommate’s breakthrough revelation one night, “Wherever you go, there you are.” (Shows you what bad Tequila can do to the brain.)

I could continue expounding on the virtues of this important manuscript, but I think the opening chapter, RULE 1.1, best sums up the spirit of this illustrious work. RULE 1.1 describes, in painstaking detail, how best to transform yourself into a lifelong runner; it boldly reads: “Have Fun.”

Now those are two words every dedicated runner should live by.
The Runner’s Rule Book is available at finer bookstores, and scruffy backstreet running stores, across the county. Pick up your copy today!

The acritical critic,
Karno

Why I Run

2009-10-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

When signing up for another year of Team In Training and committing to raise $2,000 my husband asked my why I just don't pay the $70 registration fee and run on my own. I immediately responded that I don't just run marathons to run marathons. Now that would be insane!! I run for people who can't run, I run to give hope to those who are fighting for their lives, I run for families who have lost a loved one, I run so that one day a mother won't have to watch her young child battle cancer, and I run because some day their will be a cure for blood cancers and I am determined to make that day come as fast as possible.

Here are some of the people I run for.

RUNNING IN HONOR OF...

Melanie Brady - Leukemia

(sister)

Wayne Cobia - Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma

(sister-in-law's brother)

Matthew Maultsby - Leukemia

(TNT honored teammate)

Christine Bencivengo -Hodkin's Lymphoma

(TNT honored teammate)

Sean Muir

(friend of a friend)

Steve Trost - Leukemia

(my mom's friend)

Nicole Mascaro Workman

(high school friend)

Gladys Thailer -Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma

(friend)

RUNNING IN MEMORY OF...

Johnny Romano - Leukemia

4/23/1998-9/23/2008)

(TNT honored teammate)

Trent DuVal - Leukemia

6/8/2000- 11/4/2008

(friend of a friend)

Don't Forget the Core

2009-10-04T19:51:00.000-07:00

When it comes to running it's not all about the legs. When training for my first marathon I was amazed at how strong the rest of my body became. My arms were becoming nice and toned and my stomach was getting flatter. I remember at one point itching my stomach mid run and was astonished by how tight my abs were. When running your whole body is involved, not just your legs. But that means you have to take care of your whole body if you want to increase your speed and avoid injuries. This is especially true of your core. I don't know how many times I've seen runners out there putting in long miles and they seem to just be flailing their bodies about because they are so tired. Your core has to be strong so that you can maintain correct running form to avoid injuries. Here is one of my favorite lists of core exercises that I got awhile back from Runners World. When I am a good girl and stick to these I feel stronger right away which in turn helps my running. I will admit that I hate the triceps dips though, for some reason those seem to really burn.

A CORE WORKOUT
A simple routine for time-pressed runners.

By Dimity McDowell
PUBLISHED 07/07/2008

Three times a week I was supposed to do this 15-minute regimen, designed by Ivana Bisaro of Carmichael Training Systems. I usually got to it twice, but I felt rock solid by October. Start with two sets of 15 reps; add more sets when strength and time permit.

Squats: With a Stability Ball Rest a ball between your back and a wall; squat until your knees are bent 90 degrees.
Push-Ups: With Ball, rest your knees, shins, or toes on a ball.

Lunges: Do them either regular or rest your back leg on a ball and just bend and straighten front knee. Great for balance.

Plank: Elbows under shoulders, abs tight, rest on toes, hold as long as possible. (I topped out at two sets of 1:45 holds.)

Triceps Dips: Rest your palms, fingers forward, on a table or chair, your heels on the ground, and bend your elbows until they're bent 90 degrees.

Sit-Ups on the Ball The classic: feet flat on the floor, neck relaxed, abs the primary muscles working. Back Extensions: Rest your torso on the ball and put toes on floor. Hands behind your neck, lean forward, then straighten your back. Oblique Twists on Ball: Lift up and twist your right shoulder toward your left knee, then lower; repeat on other side.

Poll's closed

2009-09-29T19:19:00.000-07:00

Now that the poll is closed it's time for an answer! So what is one of the best recovery drinks out there??

CHOCOLATE MILK

When crosssing the finish line of my first marathon the announcer was telling all the runners to go get some chocolate milk. I thought it was funny and didn't pay much attention to it but now over the past couple of years, I have heard more and more about how chocolate milk is one of the best post-run recovery drinks. Turns out Michael Phelps is a believer and drinks carnation breakfast shakes between his workouts. I have been a long believer in carnation breakfast drinks, I drink about 6-8oz an hour before a long run. (12 miles or more) Check out this article to find out more!!

Chocolate Milk: The New Sports Drink

Run Hard, Run Safe!

2009-09-29T18:11:00.000-07:00

When it comes to safety I am extremely paranoid. When I began running in college I wrote my phone number, and blood type on the inner sole of my shoe. That way if I was ever hit by a car the emergency personnel would have some information on me. I also told myself that if anyone tried to take me I would make sure to get my right shoe off in order to leave a trail. I know that's extreme but that's how I work. Now I run with pepper spray and flashing lights (I run at 5am) so that cars will see me. My latest discovery for running safety is the RoadID. I've been wanting to get one for awhile after seeing them in the Runner's World Magazine but had just never got around to ordering one. Then one day a couple of weeks ago my mom shared a story about a lady in Salt Lake who had been running and was hit by a car. Emergency personnel had no information to work with and she subsequently died. Who knows if the outcome would have been different if they had some medical information but it certainly couldn't have hurt.

Here is my bracelet from RoadID. They come in many forms and even have anklets and shoe tags. The metal is stainless steel with the words are laser engraved on the bracelet. The wrist band is available in a vinyl material or rubber (which is what I got) and is available in many colors. I love the look of mine and wear it all the time, not just when I'm running. So if you're overly paranoid like me then check them out and order you one.

As a side note, I've got some of the supplements I ordered so I'm planning on giving them a try in the next few weeks as our mileage bumps up so I'll let you know how they work for me. Take care and safe running out there!!

Tammi

Melanie today!

2009-09-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

6 years later and look at her now!

After receiving several comments about Melanie's pictures and how daunting they are, I thought I needed to post an updated photo so everyone could see how beautiful she is today! This was taken in Romania. She was there all summer doing an internship with BYU volunteering in a children's hospital and ophnage. Melanie has always been great with kids but now she is turning that into her profession where she will work as a Child Life Specialist in children's hospitals. After being touched by the kindness rendered by others when she was sick, she will now be passing that on by helping other children get through difficult times. Now you see why I consider her to be my hero. They just don't come any better than this!! Love ya Mellie!!

Homored Teammates

2009-09-14T04:30:00.000-07:00

The reason we run...

Every year out team is given "honored teammates". These are people who have fought or are currently fighting a blood cancer. This gives us a connection to the cause and helps us to remember why we are running. These people become are out motivation when we've been running for three hours and we still have several miles left to go.

Christine was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma but is now celebrating two years in remission. Matthew was diagnosed with Leukemia (AML) at the age of 2. After his initial treatments he relapsed and was given a bone marrow transplant. He is currently in remission and is now your typical teenager.

Training run and new fuel options

2009-09-12T21:37:00.000-07:00

Today was an easy nine miles. The weather was nice and cool which was a nice change from the hot and humid Saturday's we've had in the past. I had the opportunity to run with a lot of teammates today which is always fun. You get to find out why people joined Team In Training. Some join to lose weight, some to just want to run a marathon and need to train with someone, and some have a connection to the cause. One lady I ran with shared that her husband was diagnosed with stage four non-Hodgkins Lymphoma four years ago. Today he alive and doing well!! Another inspiring story.

Fuel: When running longer than 60 minutes you need to fuel your body. Over the past two years I have used Jelly Belly Sport Beans and the Snickers Marathon Bar. They have worked well but I'm looking for some new options. I've tried the gu's and gel's out there but I can barely keep those down so it's time look for some new options. The latest and greatest supplements out there are the

Car Boom Energy Chews

Tester's say that these little chews taste like fruit snacks. Sounds good to me!

Gu Chomps

Tester's say these little chomps taste tart and are less candy like. I'll give these a try but I'm already turned off by the GU label. I'm not a GU fan, sorry.

SHARKIES

Supposedly these taste great and they are certified USDA Organic

I'm going to give all these lovelies a try and see what works best for me and tastes great too. Everyone is different when it comes to what food works for then while out hitting the pavement so it's important to test out new things during your training period. That way by race day, you've got it narrowed down to your ideal race food. I admit it's going to be hard giving up my snickers marathon bars. I just love chocolate but I'll just have to save it for after the run. If you're a runner out there then please leave a comment and let me know what works for you!

Why I joined Team In Training

2009-09-09T13:53:00.000-07:00

In May of 2003 I was in Carmel California celebrating my 5th wedding anniversary. I was also 5 months pregnant with my first little princess. We were having a wonderful time out whale watching and when we returned to the hotel we had several messages to contact family. I immediately returned the calls and was told the devastating news. My little sister, who was 16 at the time, was diagnosed with Leukemia and was going to begin chemotherapy the following day. My heart broke! At the time I was working in the medical field and knew how devasting such a diagnosis was. I cried and cried and was deteremined to get to Utah to see her immediately. That was the beginning of a long journey.

Melanie endured 5 rounds of chemotherapy. During this time she received 36 units of blood, 68 bags of platelets, and 5 units of plasma. She also had 5 surgeries, as well as numerous ultrasounds, MRI's, CT scans, echocardiograms and x-rays.

Here's Melanie before she was diagnosed with AML.

This is when Melanie was in the throes of chemotherapy. My heart breaks when I see this picture!

This is when Melanie was able to go home after one of her rounds of chemotherapy. She wasn't able to eat regular food because it had been so long since she had done so, so she was given TPN (food in a tube).

This is Melanie and our brother Scott at Primary Children's. I believe this was taken during one her last rounds of chemo.

After seeing these photos, I'm sure you understand why I run. It killed me watching my baby sister go through this. We were extremely fortunate that she has gone into remission and is doing so well. But I hate the thought of other children going through this, and so I run! I am determined to do my part to help find a cure for blood cancers!

What is Team In Training?

2009-09-07T17:20:00.000-07:00

For those of you who are aren't sure what Team In Training is, here is a cool video explaining it!! Beware, it may want to make you get up and go run, walk, cycle or swim!!

TEAM IN TRAINING VIDEO

OUT FOR BLOOD

2009-09-07T16:27:00.000-07:00

The time has come for me to start a running blog!! I'm excited to share my journey of this marathon season with Team In Training with all of you! Plus, this is an easier way for me share updates and photos through out this season! First off, let me post a photo of our West Houston/Sugar Land Team. We are one of five local teams training for the Chevron Houston Marathon. (I'm standing between the ladies and the green shirt and puple shirt.)

Our team is hoping to raise $111,600.00 for blood cancers. So far we have raised 13, 543.61! We need your help so please consider donating by visiting my website!
A big thanks to all who have donated so far! Together we are making a difference in the lives of those with blood cancers! Check back often for updates and photos!

Thanks!

Tammi