A Sad Day in Boston Marathon History

It was a tragic day in Boston today as two explosions killed three people and injured 144 others during the Boston Marathon. I cannot help but reminisce about some of my own experiences back in 2008 and 2009 when I ran the Boston Marathon for Dana-Farber. For me, the Boston Marathon represented so much more than achieving a certain distance or satisfying a personal time goal. The race stood for "a world without cancer." It represented hope and a cure for my loved ones. It disturbs me to think that someone might want to taint the tradition of the Boston Marathon and all that the race represents. However, perhaps it makes sense to instead focus on the more than 2,500 good people in this world who decided to run for charity in the first place today. I would like to use this blog post to dedicate my prior runs to those charity runners who trained and poured their heart and soul into this marathon, but who were unable to finish this afternoon as planned. I hope that today's terrorist acts do not dissuade you from pursuing future endeavors for causes that you believe in. Whether you finished the race today or not, your efforts have already had a significant impact on your charities and on your supporters.

OManK714

In case he reads this, just wanted to send a shout out to my favorite person in the world. Thanks for an amazing long weekend!

And Running, Running

The "law school is like a marathon" analogy still holds true, and "surviving" seems to be my Pee-wee Herman word of the semester. "One hot mess" was the theme for last semester, but things seem to be getting a little bit easier despite facing new and increasing challenges on a regular basis.

Since it has been awhile since I last blogged, I suppose that I should provide some updates for any of you that might still be reading this:

First, Owen and I got married! It was the perfect day even though it poured buckets all day long. We really enjoyed being surrounded by family and friends. Then, we flew to Hawaii, (Maui and Kauai), for two glorious weeks. When we returned from Hawaii, I started my new job and began law school shortly thereafter.

I attended law school orientation in August. Orientation seems like one big blur right now, but I recall enjoying the experience much more than I thought I would because it alleviated some of my 1L fears. Following orientation, we hit the ground running in Torts, Civil Procedure, Legal Research and Writing, and Contracts. I actually enjoyed the reading assignments - even though I tackled many of them at 4:30am before work or at 2am after a long night of classes. I did not, however, enjoy the feeling of constant burnout without really knowing whether I was making any sort of progress in the right direction. I put so much time and energy into law school - but I did not receive a single grade until finals came at the end of the semester. Imagine running a marathon without knowing whether you are on track to finish - or even on track at all. I almost jumped ship on several occasions, and the stress came pouring out of my eyes fairly often. I kept with it all nonetheless as a newlywed - working Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 5pm - while simultaneously taking four classes downtown, three nights each week from 6pm to 10pm. I survived finals, which actually felt like a vacation because I took some time off from work. Unlike many of my classmates, my goal last semester was simply to finish, but I exceeded my own expectations and actually found myself starting to enjoy law school.

Here I am today. I am gearing up for spring break next week, and my 1L year will be behind me in less than two months. This semester seems somewhat easier only because I know what to expect now, and I am much more organized. I no longer contemplate quitting. I seem to have a little more time on my hands because I am getting faster at the assignments, so I signed up for Bodyscapes. Twice a week before work, I workout with a trainer. We do all kinds of different exercises, and it is such an efficient workout. Last semester, I did not get a single ounce of exercise into my system, so I decided to do better this semester. Exercise has made all the difference in the world for me because it is such a tremendous stress relief - and I can almost fit into my work pants again (lol)!

This weekend has been pretty fantastic because Owen and I were able to spend some time together on Saturday, and we went to visit my family yesterday. Today, I am going to buckle down again to finish my Criminal Law and Civil Procedure assignments, in addition to a fifteen page trial brief.

Not sure if I will be able to keep up with blogging on a regular basis, but I will definitely do my best to check in here and there. Well, I guess I had better get back to work. Bye for now blog - until we meet again.

Our Wedding

I hope to transform this blog over the next few months. I'd like to shift the focus away from running and start to include non-running related posts. Do you think that I should change the name of my blog? Any suggestions or ideas are certainly welcome!

Anyhow, I wanted to use this post to tell you about my primary reason for not participating in the 2010 DFMC. While the LSAT and graduate school are certainly major life-events, nothing is more important to me than Owen. Together, we are in the process of planning our wedding and our new life together. We still couldn't be more excited! Yes, life is busy, but we made a promise to each other that we wouldn't "sweat the small stuff." Weddings are traditionally very stressful events to plan, but we're actually having a pretty good time. Yes, we've got things to do and people to see, but we're getting the job done. Our wedding won't be the grandest wedding of the century. It will be simple, but we'll be married and that's what matters. I've decided that I don't necessarily care about shi-shi lala. This is not a show. As a retired Disney on Ice skater, I've participated in PLENTY of shows. This is something different. This is about two people coming together to say "I do." We're looking forward to bringing our friends and family together to celebrate this special day with us.

The funny thing about "I do" is that it is often accompanied by things "to do." Here's the latest update:

We decided to do an outdoor ceremony in June. We'll be married in front of the gazebo and 600 acres of rolling hills (unless it rains). If it rains, we're getting married in the tap room downstairs or outside with umbrellas (lol). It's like Jack always says, there's no bad weather, just bad clothing!! There will be a cocktail hour to follow the ceremony - drinks on us! Our reception will take place in a big, old barn. We booked our officiant, our DJ and our photographer. We also booked the flights for our honeymoon - at no cost!! Owen's dad gave us his air miles and we're flying to Maui and Kauai for to weeks!! We cannot even thank him enough!! My sisters, Patty and Anne, will both be my Maids of Honor. Owen's sisters, Katherine, Megan and Maureen, will be my bridesmaids. My two best friends, Marielle and Emily, will be readers at our wedding. Owen's brother, Brian, will be his best man. Timmy (my brother), Mike (Patty's boyfriend), and Pete (Katherine's husband) will be groomsmen. AND - my dad is going to walk me down the aisle. Our colors will be white and lemony yellow. I picked yellow because it always makes me smile. It will brighten up the barn and it will look nice against the green grass outside. I've started looking at wedding dresses. I actually have a dress - but I think I'm going to sell it on ebay. Below is our plan for the next two months:

1. Finalize guest list
2. Choose our florist;
3. Purchase a dress;
4. Select the bridesmaid dresses;
5. Purchase our rings;
6. Register for gifts;
7. Choose hotel(s);
8. Start adding music to our queue;
9. Transportation; and
10. Mmmm - CAKE! :)

Again, we're really on top of things. We're just going to tackle this list - one thing at a time and keep it simple. Life is good.

The 2009 Boston LSAT Marathon

I took almost a month off from all things athletic following the marathon. Then, something happened - I became super-workout girl. I attempted streak running for awhile - two days to be precise. Now look at me. I haven't done a lick of exercise in more than three months with the exception of one very slow, very short run in July. Despite the fact that it was both short and slow, I loved every second of that run. Why? Because I ran for me. It's wonderful to run for a cause that you truly believe in, but it is also important to do things that benefit you. Okay, I know. This is starting to sound like a Suze Orman show. But, it's true. You need to do things for yourself every now and then. It is for this reason that I've decided not to run the 2010 Boston Marathon. UGGGHHHHH!

Those words. I hate saying them. I really want to be part of the 2010 DFMC. It's such an incredible experience, but I'm going to take this year off to do other things. For example, I'm going to apply for school. I've completed the GMAT and I'm going to take the LSAT on September 26th. I'm hoping to get into a part-time JD/MBA program in the Boston area. If you are familiar with law schools in the Boston area, you know that there's only one of these programs in the entire city. Fingers crossed.

There are actually a lot of similarities between running the marathon and preparing for the LSAT. One of my lesson booklets actually shows a picture of marathoners on the cover.

a. Both the test and the marathon require an incredible amount of endurance. It is for this reason that my weekends have been consumed by full-length practice tests. Fun!

b. Pacing is also important. If you don't pace yourself properly, then you just won't finish on time. Note the if-then statement.

c. You can attempt to go at it alone, but you'll to much better with a good support system. Ben is my "Jack Fultz" for the LSAT.

d. Proper fuel is key. Did you know that mints are supposedly helpful? I need to avoid the mid-test trip to the vending machines and the resulting sugar crash.

e. Practice. Practice. Practice. Run. Run. Run. Do your homework!! If you do not do the required workouts, then you will not succeed.

f. Again, the biggest lesson is not to put too much pressure on yourself. Yes, you want to cross the finish line with a perfect 180, but both the forest and the trees are important.

g. Work with the tools that you have. You might not be the fastest or the strongest or the brightest. Learn to use the tools that God gave you to fulfill your maximum potential. Understand your limitations.

Anyhow, you can see that there are a lot of similarities between the marathon and the LSAT. I've been taking a Kaplan course since May and I'm gearing up. The Kaplan course is highly recommended btw! I haven't started the taper yet; I still have a few more 20+ milers to go before then.

One Goal Down, One More to Go!

SUCCESSSSSSSSSSS! I reached my $10,000 fundraising goal for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute! Can you believe it?!? That's a small car!!! I worked so hard - for such a long time. I didn't do it alone either. So many of you supported my 2009 run for the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge through contributions and motivational emails to sharing personal stories and cheering me on along the route. Much thanks goes to my roommate, Kay, as well. She put forth great efforts to organize FIVE fundraising events with me throughout the season AND she ran just about every run with me in training. Thank you Kay and all from the bottom of my heart for your generosity - I could not have done this without you!!!

Together, we have reached our fundraising goal. We must be confident that these 10,000 dollars will not only improve the quality of life for those battling and surviving cancer, but that at least one of these 10,000 dollars will be used to discover the cure that we have been longing, searching, praying and hoping for....

With Love,
Katy Counihan

Day ?

I attempted a streak, but it only lasted two days. My schedule was so packed on the third day that I would have had to run at 11pm to finish my mile for the day. It was then that I decided that streak running just isn't for me right now. Perhaps I will come back to it later on?! People are always looking for unique, larger than life athletic events (like the marathon) and I think it would be really neat for someone to organize a one year running streak for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Then, all could become members of the National Running Streak Association. Streak running does not seem that difficult at first, but maintaining a streak is just as hard as running the marathon.

While I failed miserably at streak running, I have remained quite active! I'm actually getting ready to say hello to my old friend, heartbreak hill, in a few minutes. I exercised eleven days in the last two weeks, and I feel AWESOME! I found some great workouts at fitnessmagazine.com and have been hitting the gym.

Anyhow, I just wanted to fill you in on the status of my running and let you know about my cut-a-thon happening on the 14th!!

Come to Safar at 235 Newbury Street in Boston on Sunday, June 14th from 12-5pm for a hair-cut and blow-dry, appetizers and beverages!! The cost is only $20/men and $30/women - amazing prices for a Newbury Street haircut! 100% of the proceeds will benefit the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge! Walk-ins welcome or email me at kcounihan@gmail.com with questions! I'm now only $887.95 away from reaching my $10,000 goal for Dana-Farber, so your support is greatly appreciated (as always)!

Day 2

Tuesday, May 12, 2009
3 Miles
Perfect conditions for a running streak (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since May 11, 2009):
Total Miles Logged: 5
Total Time Running: 50:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged May: 5

Yesterday, I completed a nice, easy run around the lake. I've been trying to work running into my daily routine, so I ran 1.5 miles to Newton Center, paid for my LSAT class, and ran 1.5 miles home. It was an expensive run - costing $333.33 per mile!!

I felt a little bit of pain on my left side, so I'm going to take it nice and easy today. The reason that I started running every other day during marathon training was because my body didn't react very well to running multiple days in a row. With this in mind, I'm going to build in some easy one-milers every couple of days to give my body time to repair itself. I've got a two-day streak!

Day 1

Monday, May 11, 2009
2 Miles
Perfect conditions for a running streak (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since May 11, 2009):
Total Miles Logged: 2
Total Time Running: 20:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged May: 2

I did it! I didn't want to do it. I was scared to start running again (for some odd reason), but I did it! I ran my first two miles since the marathon! Owen and I went grocery shopping this afternoon and I ran home from the store. I turned on the Nano and moved to the sounds of "Geek in the Pink," "L-O-V-E," "Bubbly," and "Pretty Woman." I could feel my heart working hard for the first time in three weeks, and it felt good. I found myself smiling mid-run. I was reminded of my very first run through the corn fields in Sunderland, when I started running to get into shape for the U.S. Collegiate National Figure Skating Championships in Hawaii. I woke up early before class, pulled on my cotton sweatpants, and gave it everything I had just to get to the next telephone pole, stop sign, and mailbox. I've come a long way.

I decided not to pace myself for the first mile, so I got off to a fast start. For twenty minutes, I forgot about work, worries, chores, lists, and all of the little things that create unnecessary stress in my life. I focused on me. It felt good.

Owen commented on my speed as soon as I got home. That felt good too. Today marks the first day of my running streak. Only 364 more days to go until I can officially become a member of the U.S. Running Streak Association! Talk to you tomorrow!

So ... Now What?!?

So ... I just finished the Boston Marathon. I still have a lot of thank you notes to send out. I'm planning a wedding and I'm getting ready to take the LSAT in September. Then, I'm hoping to get my JD/MBA at Suffolk University while continuing to work at Dana-Farber.

I would like to keep up with my running now that the marathon is over. WHY?! Because it gives me discipline and focus. It's a great way to keep in shape and it's a stress relief from my day-to-day activities. Running makes me feel good all over, so why not keep it up?! I haven't run since the marathon, and I'm starting to feel like a blob. I've been wanting to get back out there, but my mind gets in the way every time. Exercising and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is so important to me, which is why I've decided to give streak running a shot. This does not mean that I will be running hundreds of miles in a month though!

A running streak is defined by USRSA as running at least one continuous mile within each calendar day under one's own body power (without the utilization of any type of health or mechanical aid other than prosthetic devices). Treadmill running is allowed!

Monday, May 11, 2009, will officially mark the first day of my running streak. My general goal is to run home from work and to fill in the rest of the gaps with shorter, easy runs to give my legs a break. I will use this blog to track my progress. If I can run everyday for one year, I will qualify for membership in the United States Running Streak Association. Do you think I can do it?! Well, there's one way to find out. Here we go!

The 2009 Boston Marathon and Beyond

The marathon. Sigh. It's done. I'm not quite sure where to start. I slept eight or nine solid hours. I ate a very Special-K breakfast. Kay and I boarded the B.A.A. buses around 5:45am. And - we ran 26.2 miles.

This might sound funny, but the race wasn't the highlight of my training this year. Last year, the marathon felt like a CELEBRATION! I crushed my goal! I overcame injury after injury and conquered the 2008 Boston Marathon (all for Dana-Farber). This year, I do not feel that I have reached my goal. While running was an important part of my 2009 DFMC experience, my ultimate goal was (and still is) to raise $10,000 for innovative cancer research at Dana-Farber. The good news is that there's still time to fundraise, and I've got a PLAN! I just got a call from Safar on Newbury Street, and we're in the process of planning another cut-a-thon! Do you think I can raise another $907.95? I'm so close! More to come!

The marathon itself was not my best run this year, but it felt FANTASTIC crossing the finish line in Copley Square. One of my teammates called the race a 26.2 mile schmooze, and that's just what I did! I hugged and high-fived my way from Hopkinton to Boston. My favorite part of the entire race was seeing my dad (alive and well!) at mile 10. He was so proud of me, and I thank God every day for giving us this opportunity (life). Another highlight was seeing Peter and Mrs. Lorenz in Wellesley because I know just how much this experience meant to Kay, and then seeing the Kellett clan on Commonwealth Avenue. I gave Katie Goodfellow a huge hug on Boylston Street and crossed the finishline after running for five hours, fifty-one minutes and forty-three seconds.

Again, I'm still working hard on my fundraising goal and I cannot thank you all enough for supporting my run!! So many of you sent me the names of your loved ones who have battled cancer, and I would like you to know that it was an honor to carry their names to the finish line. Your loved ones gave me the strength and motivation that I needed to run 26.2 miles for Dana-Farber. It was an emotional experience, and I thank each of you for trusting me with your loved ones.

I'm in the process of sending out my thank-yous and 100 Grands, so be on the lookout! People are already starting to ask me whether I'm going to sign up for the 2010 Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge. The marathon itself is currently up for debate (with the upcoming wedding and a JD/MBA on the horizon), but my heart is in it for the long run. Thank you to the DFMC volunteers, Jack and Jan for organizing this program for Dana-Farber. Aunt Joan, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Finally, Owen, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your love and support. As always, LOL :).

The End

Monday, April 20, 2009
(26.2 Miles)!!!!!!!!!!!
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 518.2
Total Time Running: 100:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 142
Total Miles Logged April: 62.2



Saturday, April 11, 2009
(6 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 492.0
Total Time Running: 94:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 142
Total Miles Logged April: 36



Thursday, April 9, 2009
(6 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 482.0
Total Time Running: 92:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 142
Total Miles Logged April: 26



Tuesday, April 7, 2009
(6 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 476.0
Total Time Running: 91:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 142
Total Miles Logged April: 20



Sunday, April 5, 2009
(8 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 470.0
Total Time Running: 90:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 142
Total Miles Logged April: 14



Thursday, April 2, 2009
(6 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 462.0
Total Time Running: 89:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 142
Total Miles Logged April: 6



Saturday, March 28, 2009
(20 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 456.0
Total Time Running: 88:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 142



Thursday, March 26, 2009
(8 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 436.0
Total Time Running: 83:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 122



Tuesday, March 24, 2009
(6 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 428.0
Total Time Running: 82:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 114

Win 100 GRAND!!!

This is not a joke -- even though it is April Fool's Day!! Go to http://www.rundfmc.org/katyc2009 and make a gift of $15.00 or more to my online fundraising page on April 2nd (anytime before midnight) and you will receive 100 Grand!!

Settle down, settle down! I'm clearly talking about a 100 Grand candy bar -- even though you will be rich!*

*Rich with caramel, milk chocolate, and crispy crunchy goodness.

With your help, Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge will be rich too!! Again, just make a gift of $15.00 or more on April 2, 2009 and email me at kcounihan@gmail.com with your name and home address and I will gladly send you a 100 Grand candy bar (and a little love note) to thank you for your generosity!

Do you think we can raise 100 Grand?!

March 20th

Dear Friends,

I'm writing because I have a lot on my mind right now, and I really need to share my thoughts. March 20th leaves a bitter-sweet taste in my mouth for a couple of reasons. For starters, the 2009 Boston Marathon is coming up on April 20th -- exactly one month from tomorrow! I'm nervous. I'm excited! I'm gearing up. I just ran a successful 18-miler, but I really, REALLY need your support because ....

I'm running in memory of my lovely grandmother, Rita V. Higgins, who passed away just one year ago -- on March 20th. She was perhaps my favorite person on this Earth, and I miss her more than you could ever imagine. I would not be the same person that I am today, if it weren't for my 4'10" tall grandmother.

Tomorrow is also the first day of spring -- my grandma's favorite time of year. This is the first spring that we will not be celebrating together.

Please go to http://www.rundfmc.org/katyc2009 to make a special gift online in support of my run in the 2009 Boston Marathon for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Your support on March 20th is especially important to me because it would also be a gift in memory of my grandmother. Every gift is greatly appreciated, whether it be $5, $15, $26.20, $100, or $1,000. Tell your friends. Tell your family. I have raised $5,000 thus far, but I really need your support in order to reach my $10,000 fundraising goal for my grandmother.

Please contribute to my run for innovative cancer research. Your support is greatly appreciated on March 20th.

Many thanks,
Katy Counihan

B.A.A. Charity Clinic

I attended the B.A.A. Charity Clinic a few weeks ago, and it was AWESOME! I was so bummed when I couldn't attend last year, so it was great to be able to participate this year. DMSE planned a quick run before the clinic, but I wasn't able to make it to the run. I did, however, make it in time for the trail mix consisting of chocolate chip cookies! BRILLIANT!

Then, we watched a video of the 2008 Boston Marathon. I really hope that nobody saw me, but I got so excited and sad all at the same time. I became so incredibly emotional that tears started streaming down my face. I'm so glad that I sat in the far right corner of the auditorium. It was then that I truly realized how passionate I have become about the DFMC.

Dave McGillivray (my idol) and his team spoke about the Boston Marathon. They gave us some insider information about registration and hydration. Josh Nemzer ran us through the race route in about ten minutes (or less). Chris Troyanos gave us some medical advice.

I heard Dave McGillivray speak a couple of times before, and really enjoyed both of his presentations. Then, I read his book, "The Last Pick" and became even more interested in his story for a variety of reasons. For starters, Dave ran across the country for the Jimmy Fund!! If I had been working for DFCI at the time, I would've reviewed his pre-event plan and budget. Dave described the review process a little bit, and I really enjoyed reading about how thrilled he was to find that his plan had been accepted! Now, I'm just waiting for Dave to call us up to tell us that he's going to be running the Great Wall of China! It was nice reading Dave's story because I was able to relate to it on many different levels.

Anyhow, I introduced myself to Dave McGillivray following the clinic because I figured that I might as well go for it while I had the chance. I was totally shy and silly, and I really just said, "Thanks for everything!" After all, if it weren't for Dave's philanthropic spirit, I might not have the opportunity to run the Boston Marathon for Dana-Farber!

Hello Kevin Counihan

Dear Kevin Counihan,

I'm not sure if we're related, but I regularly see your name listed as a participant in Boston-area road races. Looking forward to running in the pack behind you in the 2009 Boston Marathon! Best of luck out there (from one Counihan to another), and I hope that you will consider sponsoring my run for Dana-Farber at http://www.rundfmc.org/katyc2009 should you read my blog. Much appreciated!

Many thanks,
Katy Counihan

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That's my number!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Don't forget it!!! :)

Thanks Pete!

I was running home from work the other day, and I was almost to Heartbreak Hill when someone yelled "RUN KATY, RUN!" out their car window. I couldn't tell who it was at the time, but it gave me just the boost I needed to get home during what was not an easy run. I found out a few days later that the driver was Pete!! THANKS PETE!! :) ... That made my run! :)

A Running Stream of Consciousness

I'm going to use this post to ramble on for a little bit because it's been awhile since my last post. A TON has happened over the last month!! Owen and I got a new apartment together, and we are totally loving our new life! I've discovered a ton of new runs, and I'm still running with Kay on a regular basis. I also got into the habit of running home from work every couple of days, and I'm hoping that I'll keep up with the routine following the marathon.

The weather is starting to warm up and I had an AWESOME 17-miler a few weeks ago. It was my favorite run this year because it felt so great running in just a long-sleeved t-shirt. We got our 18-miler in, and we're gearing up for our 20-miler this weekend! I'm pretty pumped because I feel like I'm doing things right this year. I've been going for regular massages at the Boston Bodyworker (Natalie is highly recommended), and I feel good! I'm not going to do anything silly. I'm just going to keep on keepin' on, and take things one day at a time.

When I logged my mileage this afternoon, I noticed that I'm already well over the 400-mile mark! This is truly amazing considering some of the injuries that I battled last year.

I just discovered Arnold's Arboretum and it might just be my new favorite place to run!! Did you know that there are Redwood trees in Boston!?! It's true! Arnold's Arboretum is a secret (well, er public) garden in JP. There are tons of paths and it's quite hilly, but the view of Boston from Peter's Hill is well worth the effort. I can't wait to do this run again soon!

It's almost 10pm, and I'm in the process of washing my running clothes. I have no idea what I'm going to do with my time following the marathon!!

I'm still working on my fundraising -- BIG TIME! I sent an email to my Facebook Friends, and I'm in the process of organizing another cut-a-thon at Salon Acote. I really hope that we can pull it together! I'm setting up a table at the annual West Boylston High School Play Competitions on Friday night to collect contributions, and I'm looking into setting up a table at Walmart. Finally, I'm contemplating one more fundraiser, but I'd really like your feedback and suggestions.

Should I conduct a) an organized dog walk or b) a frisbee tournament?! Please comment!

Finally, I'm past the halfway mark with my fundraising!! I've raised over $5,000, but I still have a LOOooOoOOooooNNNGGggG way to go to reach my $10,000 fundraising goal! Please go to http://www.rundfmc.org/katyc2009 to sponsor my run! :)

You GO Daddio!

Have you ever seen those intense mom and dad runners? You know who I'm talking about -- those parents who take their toddlers out for a quick twelve-miler after work. Are you wondering where I'm going with this post?! I'm starting to wonder myself. Basically, I just wanted to tell you about the dad I saw running up Heartbreak Hill. I'd guess that the guy was probably about forty-two years old, and he was pushing his toddler up the infamous Heartbreak Hill. GET THIS -- he was ALSO pushing his six-year old son on a bicycle up Heartbreak Hill! The POOR DAD!! His toddler was crying, and his six year old was whining about how he wasn't going to make it. I have a hard enough time just running up the hill. IMAGINE running up the hill with two small children! I stuck behind the bunch for a bit during one of my long runs because the scene made me chuckle outloud. Bottom line: that's dedication! Hats off to all of those parents who run with their children!

A Note to a Teammate - Listen Up!

We still have over a month to go! Don't start questioning your abilities now. You've got this one! Crank it on the arc trainer and in the pool. Strengthen areas that need strengthening. Prepare your body and your mind. This is your battle to win. Not sure what injury you're dealing with, but walk-running might be okay. Do what you can every other day. Spend four hours on the elliptical. Give your body time to heal between workouts. Go for massages, and S-T-R-E-T-C-H. I struggled with injuries last year (primarily ITB and peroneal tendonitis). I didn't run my first 14-miler until mid-way through March. My longest run before the marathon was eighteen miles and I made it to the finish-line during the 2008 Boston Marathon in 5:30 -- thanks to some great advice! :)

You can finish. It's okay to walk. Just go out there and give it your all. Your donors cannot be disappointed if you give it your best. AND, keep collecting those dollars!!! Dana-Farber needs them!

All Caught Up!

Saturday, March 21, 2009
(12 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 422.0
Total Time Running: 81:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 108



Thursday, March 19, 2009
(8 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 410.0
Total Time Running: 78:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 96



Tuesday, March 17, 2009
(6 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 402.0
Total Time Running: 76:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 88



Saturday, March 14, 2009
(18 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 396.0
Total Time Running: 76:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 82



Wednesday, March 11, 2009
(8 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 378.0
Total Time Running: 72:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 64



Tuesday, March 10, 2009
(6 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 370.0
Total Time Running: 71:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 56



Sunday, March 8, 2009
(17 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 364.0
Total Time Running: 70:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 50



Friday, March 6, 2009
(3 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 347.0
Total Time Running: 66:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 33



Wednesday, March 4, 2009
(8 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 344.0
Total Time Running: 65:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 30



Monday, March 2, 2009
(6 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 336.0
Total Time Running: 64:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 22



Sunday, March 1, 2009
(16 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 330.0
Total Time Running: 63:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95
Total Miles Logged March: 16



Friday, February 27, 2009
(5 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 314.0
Total Time Running: 60:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 95



Tuesday, February 24, 2009
(3 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 309.0
Total Time Running: 59:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 90



Monday, February 23, 2009
(7 Miles)
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 306.0
Total Time Running: 58:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 87

DFMC Events

We conducted a series of successful events to raise additional funds for DFMC over the last couple of weeks:

On February 8th, Kay and I conducted "If Looks Could Cure" at Salon Acote! We were expecting approximately 40 people to participate in our event, but the final number was closer to 80 attendees! People got their haircuts on Newbury Street, and we provided refreshments. Salon Acote donated its venue and its stylists, and the event was extremely successful, raising almost two thousand dollars!

On February 11th, I conducted a deep water running session at the Evelyn Kirrane Aquatics Center. The pool was generously donated at no cost to us! Jack Fultz volunteered to coach the session, and we had approximately twenty attendees. The session raised almost five hundred dollars, and everyone had a great time! We also surprised Jack with a cake, wishing him a happy 2:11 on February 11th in honor of his personal best!

On February 18th, Kay and I conducted the Skate to Freeze Cancer 2 at The Skating Club of Boston. The skating club generously provided the arena and skate rentals, and Mickey and Minnie Mouse (and other stars from Disney on Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy) joined us! We encountered a snowstorm during the evening of the skate-a-thon, so we had several cancellations at the last minute. Still, we raised over $2K for Dana-Farber! Following the skate-a-thon, Mickey and Minnie visited kids at The Jimmy Fund Clinic!

Thank you to everyone who participated in our fundraising events! We are thrilled with the results of our hard work, and we are already planning our next round of events including another potential cut-a-thon in May and a skate-a-thon in April. I'm almost up to the halfway point with my fundraising!

Running of the Brides

Got a great workout in this week during Running of the Brides! I found a great dress (not the one in the video clip below), and I was on the news! Check it out and feel free to read the email that I sent to my team following the run below:

http://wbztv.com/video/?id=73230@wbz.dayport.com

OMG! We made it on the news, (LOL - and probably the Christian Science Monitor), team!!! Mo, thanks for sending me this video!! That's hilarious!! Emily, we didn't end up getting the dress in the video. This was the first dress that I tried on -- thanks to Katherine!! I have no idea how she managed to get it so quickly!

The whole experience was so fun -- definitely sets the tone for our entire wedding, and I'm glad that I didn't have to do that by myself! Could you imagine!?! Between our strategy, 80's funk beat music machine and cardboard cutout sign, we definitely had the BEST, ragtag team there!! Can you believe some girls slept on the sidewalk overnight?!? CRAZY!! I love how we strolled in at 7:45am with Donuts!! My favorite moment was when we started running, and someone from the team was like -- "Oh. We actually have to run!?!" Patty charged straight through the madness with Anne. We lost Katherine and Mo. I laughed uncontrollably by an empty rack while Marielle took pictures. Then, Katherine came running with A REAL DRESS!! That's when WBZ news started filming! Then, the bartering began! Does anyone know who that random woman was who "formed an alliance" with us?! So strange!! Mo, I'm so glad you weren't trampled! ;) ... Thank you all for helping me find a great dress at a great price! LOL - and let's hope that I still fit into it in 2010!! :-P

Lots of love,
Katy

P.S. I showed the dress to my mom and dad today ... and they both love it! :) ... Dad said that I, (Insert we), couldn't have found a more perfect dress! :)

Just Catching Up!

Saturday, February 21, 2009
10:15AM (13 Miles)
Washington and Hills
Weather: 35F
Conditions: Sunny
Gut Rating: 3
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 6 mph

Sluggish. Slow. Harder than usual today. Feel semi-wiped out this week, which is strange because I'm on vacation. We were supposed to run 16, but we ran 13 instead. We stopped at Dunks for bagels at mile 13, and we walked a little bit. Okay. Okay, a lotta bit. Kay's knee started bothering her, and she didn't bring fuel. We decided not to push ourselves today because we haven't missed a run in three months. We hopped on the T at BC. Got off at Cleveland Circle. Hopped on the T at Reservoir. Ran home with our bagels from Brookline Hills. Still give this run a decent gut rating.


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 299.0
Total Time Running: 57:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 79



Thursday, February 19, 2009
7:00PM (8 Miles)
Hills
Weather: 35F
Conditions: Dark
Gut Rating: 2
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 6 mph

Ran the hills backwards and forwards. Stopped at Star Market to use the ladies room, but the door was locked. Good run in general.


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 286.0
Total Time Running: 54:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 66




Tuesday, February 17, 2009
9:30AM (5 Miles)
BHAC
Weather: 40F
Conditions: Sunny
Gut Rating: 1
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 6 mph

Indoor workout at the gym! On vacation this week. Ran and tried out a new machine! Loved it!


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 278.0
Total Time Running: 53:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 01:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 58



Sunday, February 15, 2009
2:30PM (15 Miles)
Random Hills
Weather: 40F
Conditions: Sunny
Gut Rating: 2
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 6 mph

Great long run! Slow pace.


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 277.0
Total Time Running: 52:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 57



Thursday, February 12, 2009
7:30PM (8 Miles)
Hills
Weather: 35F
Conditions: Dark
Gut Rating: 3
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 6 mph

Long day. Ran with Kate and Kay. Felt the ITB coming on during the last mile. Slowed the pace. Felt better.


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 262.0
Total Time Running: 48:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 42



Tuesday, February 10, 2009
7:00PM (4 Miles)
Weather: ?
Conditions: ?
Gut Rating: 2
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 6 mph

Just catching up with my blog!


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 254.0
Total Time Running: 47:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 34



Monday, February 9, 2009
5:30AM (7 Miles)
Weather: ?
Conditions: ?
Gut Rating: 2
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 6 mph

Just catching up with my blog!


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 250.0
Total Time Running: 46:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 30



Friday, February 6, 2009
7:00AM (4 Miles)
Local Loop
Weather: ?
Conditions: ?
Gut Rating: 2
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 6 mph

Did a four mile recovery run today. Busy week!!


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 243.0
Total Time Running: 45:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 23

Skate to Freeze Cancer 2 - Feb. 18th

Hi Boston!

I'm running the Boston Marathon for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, so I've organized a kid-friendly fundraiser (tomorrow, Feb. 18th from 5-7pm at The Skating Club of Boston)! Join stars from the cast of Disney on Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy in a skate-a-thon to benefit Dana-Farber Cancer Institute! Skaters are asked to raise only $25.00, and the top ten skating fundraisers will each win two tickets to Disney on Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy!

Rumor has it that two famous mice are in town for our skate-a-thon, and we have some great giveaways lined up as well (including passes to the New England Aquarium, a family membership to the Puppet Showplace Theatre, Learn-to-skate lessons at The Skating Club of Boston, ice cream giftcards, skating-themed DVDs, cupcakes, Red Sox Hats, etc...)!

Please go to http://www.skatetofreezecancer.blogspot.com for more information, or feel free to email k.s.lorenz@hotmail.com with questions. Hope to see you tomorrow!

Many thanks,
Katy Counihan

Over the Hump

Wednesday, February 4, 2009
7:00PM (14 Miles)
Beacon to the Hills
Weather: 24F
Conditions: Dark
Gut Rating: 1
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 6 mph

This run kicked cancer's a$s! Our group fourteen miler is scheduled for Sunday, but we won't be able to make it because we have our fundraiser at Salon Acote. Saturday, we're setting up a table at the Skating Club of Boston to register skaters for the Skate to Freeze Cancer 2! Go to http://www.skatetofreezecancer.blogspot.com for more information! We can't get our long run in on Friday because Kay has plans on Friday evening. Tonight, I'm going to a Celtics vs. Lakers game with Owen. SoOooOoo, we decided to get it in on Wednesday this week. And ... it ROCKED!

My blog followers might remember that my breaking point occurred last year during my 13-mile run, so this year we decided to skip the 13-miler altogether. We ran a solid 14.1 miles last night, and we ran at a great pace!

The Marathon and Running Programs Office would be so proud of us because we wore our reflective gear and carried plenty of fluids, fuel, T-passes, money, a debit card, extra gloves, and quarters in case we had to make a phone call. We carb loaded on Tuesday night and nibbled/hydrated all day long on Wednesday. We were ready! And, boy did we have fun!

Our run took us out past Boston College and down Beacon for many miles. I didn't really "discover" Beacon street until my 18-miler last year. I always take Beacon into the city, but it's wonderful following Beacon into the 'burbs because the road widens and we can run in the breakdown lane. We didn't have to worry about snow and ice either! We turned onto Chestnut for a little while, and we found it scarier running down Chestnut than along Beacon. We really watched out for traffic because the road was so narrow. Kay expressed a little bit of "road runner rage" when a woman was driving and talking on her cell phone without paying attention to her surroundings (us). We actually jumped into a snowbank at one point. Whenever a car neared, we yelled "We're here!"

We were THRILLED when we turned onto the hills. We walked for just a moment, so that we could refuel. I broke into my Chocolate Outrage flavored Gu (the only one I had in the house). I didn't think that I was going to like it very much, but it was delish! It was sort of like eating chocolate frosting in the middle of my run! It gave me such a huge shot of energy! When we got past the hills, we stopped at Dunkin' Donuts because Kay had to pee for the second time during our run. Our first stop was at Pete's Coffee in Newton Center. The guy at Dunkin' Donuts was beyond nice! He filled our water bottles and cheered us on as we left the store! Thank you Dunkin' Donuts!! From there, it was an easy three miler home!

I'm so glad to have that run behind us. My body really seems to appreciate running every other day. I got a massage the other day, and that really helped too. I'm stretching and doing all the things that I didn't do at the start of my training last year. My legs aren't too sore this morning, which is a very good sign. We stretched on the kitchen floor for almost a half hour when we got home last night, and we called "the boyfriends" to let them know that we made it home. Owen called me before the run to wish me luck because he knew that this run would be mental challenge for me, and I was so excited to call him to say, "I did it!" Go DFMC!


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 239.0
Total Time Running: 44:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 19

Skate to Freeze Cancer 2

Lace up those skates! Help find a cure!

Join stars from Disney on Ice presents World of Fantasy for a Skate-a-thon to benefit Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Wednesday, February 18th, 5pm-7pm
The Skating Club of Boston, 1240 Soldiers Field Road, Brighton, MA.
Cost: $25.
But don't stop there!

The top 10 participants who collect the highest dollar amount in flat rate pledges will receive 2 tickets* to Disney on Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy at the TD Banknorth Garden, February 13-22, 2009. **Performance date and time TBD**

To participate:

Please visit www.skatetofreezecancer.blogspot.com to download a free registration form. Return the form, along with your $25 check or money order made payable to "Dana Farber Marathon Challenge" to:

Dana Farber Cancer Institute
Attn: Katy Counihan
10 Brookline Place West, 6th floor
Brookline, MA 02445
Questions? Email k.s.lorenz@hotmail.com today!

*100% of your $25 gift and any additional fundraising will benefit our run for the Claudia Adams Barr Program at Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston.

Newbury Street Haircuts to Benefit My Run!

Kay and I have organized a hair cut-a-thon at Salon Acote (just in time for Valentine's Day) to raise money for our run for Dana-Farber! Enjoy haircuts, appetizers, beverages and giveaways at Salon Acote located at 132 Newbury Street on February 8th to benefit Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Haircuts cost only $30 for women and $20 for men. This is an amazing deal for a Newbury Street haircut, and the best part is that 100% of the proceeds will support innovative cancer research because the stylists are donating five hours of their time at no cost! Contact (617) 262-5111 to schedule your appointment between 11am and 4pm. Walk-ins are also welcome! We'll be there on Sunday to collect cash and checks made payable to "Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge." Forty people have already signed up for a haircut, and we hope to more than double that number! Feel free to email me at kcounihan@gmail.com if you'd like more information!

Dear Sock God, It's Me Katy.

I just sent an email to WrightSocks, asking for a $5,000 contribution. I already have a TON of good things to say about their socks, but you bet that I will tell the world about their socks if they sponsor my run for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute! Fingers crossed. Will keep you posted!

WHOA!

The economy is in rough shape, but this has been an AWESOME week for fundraising! I received not one, but two $500 contributions!! I danced around my room both times, and now I know what it feels like when a Major Gifts Officer receives his or her first HUGE contribution for an organization!

Whenever someone goes above and beyond to do something special for someone else, I make a mental note. $500 means 50 hours of work to some people. In today's economy, it means food on the table and a roof overhead. To some, $500 could mean a new television or a new computer. In this case, $500 means that the human race is one step closer to a cure. I'm so appreciative of the thought that went into both of these gifts (and every gift) for that matter. If anyone cannot afford to make a contribution, notes are greatly appreciated too! Support comes in all shapes and sizes, and all of it is greatly appreciated when training for the 2009 Boston Marathon for Dana-Farber!

Thank you, Thank YOU, THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has sponsored my run because Dana-Farber is doing great things, and it's a cause that I fully support! It is also an honor to run in memory and in support of your loved ones. If you would like to sponsor my run, please go to http://www.rundfmc.org/katyc2009. The marathon is just around the corner!

Splish Splash

Monday, February 5, 2009
7:00PM (5 Miles)
Neighborhood Loop
Weather: 36F
Conditions: Dark
Gut Rating: 2
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 6 mph

This run was pretty hilarious. Kay did a high split over a puddle. While I was busy making fun of her, I stepped in one (ankle-deep). My shoes squished for three miles. Karma is a .... I would fill in the rest of that sentence, but I'd like to portray Dana-Farber in a positive light. LOL. Talk about deep water running!

So ... I'd also like to use this post to apologize to my readers. Some of you might be following my blog because I've accidentally led you to believe that I'm really, REALLY fast. One of my readers pointed out that I'm always running at a 10mph pace (according to my stats). I meant to post that I'm running a 10 minute mile (or a 6 mph pace). You see, I'm actually very slow. My dad tells me that, that's okay because I get more for my fundraising dollars!


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 225.0
Total Time Running: 41:15:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!
Total Miles Logged February: 5

Wind Tunnel

Saturday, January 31, 2009
8:00AM (12 Miles)
Watertown Run
Weather: 26F
Conditions: Sunny and Windy
Gut Rating: 3
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 6 mph

Kay and I had a great group run today! We got our 12-miler in! I was a little concerned about Kay because she suffered from some pains on the right side of her stomach (likely caused by dehydration). We walked for a couple of minutes, and the pain subsided before it caused her more grief. Eventually, the problem subsided. The hill getting to "the hills" was tough, but the last stretch of the run was even tougher because we were faced with a nasty headwind. I sort of felt like I was a football player trying to rush the ball with a hundred obstacles in my way. Kay described it as "running two miles with every step." I hope the marathon isn't that windy. Felt great to get the mileage under our belts on Saturday morning because we had the rest of the weekend to relax.

We had a great run nonetheless, and Jan gave us the opportunity to promote all of our fundraising events!! I'm thrilled because we've actually had a lot of signups as a result!

Mentally, running is easier this year because I know I can do it. I'm running more, but I'm probably more cautious this year because I know what happens when you get off track. Note to self: Just keep at it! You're doing the right thing!

Finally, check out my stats below!!! I finally hit the 100-mile mark in a single month!


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 220.0
Total Time Running: 40:15:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 108.5 <<<< CHECK THAT OUT!!!!

A Run and A Rental

Thursday, January 29, 2009
6:45PM (7 Miles)
Owen's House Run
Weather: 26F
Conditions: Icy
Gut Rating: 2
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 6 mph

This was my first run to Owen's house this season. We were hit by a nasty storm, so the sidewalks were sheer ice in some locations. I was forced to run in the street during most of it. I was in a bit of a hurry because we made an appointment to sign our new lease following the run. Can you believe it!? It's our first apartment!! I'm so excited! I stretched and changed into one of Owen's shirts and fleece jackets; I didn't even have time to shower! GROSS! Our real estate agent must've had second thoughts about renting to us when she saw my attire (and probably smelled my attire) that evening. Looking forward to finding some new running routes near our apartment come March 1st!


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 208.0
Total Time Running: 38:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 96.5

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00

Record Setting Run

Tuesday, January 27, 2009
6:15AM (5 Miles)
Brookline Ave.
Weather: 18F
Conditions: COLD!
Gut Rating: 2
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 10 mph

We finished an easy five-miler this morning. We didn't talk a lot today. We just did our thing. Exciting news: our easy five-miler just put us over the 200-mile mark!!! AND ... if all goes as planned, we'll log over 100 miles in January!! I never ran 100 miles in a single month last year. I've been thinking about getting a car for a little while, but who needs a car when you've got legs!!

I just bought three new pairs of Wright Socks because I started getting massive blisters on my little toe. My new Wright Socks feel SO good! I couldn't feel my blisters at all today. Wearing new socks was a real treat for my feet!


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 201.0
Total Time Running: 36:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 89.5

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00

Watch Out for Otter-Dogs!

Sunday, January 25, 2009
7:30AM (11.5 Miles)
Wayland Run
Weather: 5F
Conditions: COLD!
Gut Rating: 2
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 10 mph

Karen picked us up at the Chestnut Hill T-stop for our group run. THANK YOU, KAREN! If it hadn't been for Karen, we might've snoozed this morning. We left the house at 6:45AM, grabbed a couple of bagels at Dunks, and hopped onto the T. Karen drove us out to Wayland for our group run this morning. The Town of Wayland did a great job plowing the route. We didn't have to worry about many cars, and it was nice to run outside the city. We were surrounded on all sides by wildlife preserves, so the scenery was beautiful. Most of the DFMC team ran ahead of us, while Kay and I led the back of the pack. I used to try to keep up with my teammates, but I find that I feel much better if I run at my own pace. It's difficult to keep up with the Dana-Farber Kenyans, but it's comforting knowing that others (no matter how fast) are out there at the same time and running for the same reasons. Together, we run.

The first water stop was located at the 3.2 mile mark. I found it amusing that it was located on Water Row. Not sure if anyone else noticed that? Kay and I pressed on towards the second water stop. I stopped to give Roy a hug at the Lincoln Sudbury HS before we braved the icy sidewalk for a couple of minutes. The street signs were really funny today! We ran past Frost Lane -- how appropriate considering Kay's water bottle froze! I seem to have the strange ability to keep my water from freezing! More to come re: my super power! We turned around just before the 6 mile mark, and headed back.

On the way back, Kay had to PEE! And I mean PEE! There was no stopping this girl. She sprinted ahead of me, and I've never seen her run so fast. She contemplated going behind a couple of trees, but decided to hold it. We arrived back at the High School, but all the doors were locked. She almost went behind a snowbank until we noticed all of the parked cars near the gym. SUCCESS! We ran down the stairs (literally) and through the school (literally). We ran straight into the bathroom because we didn't want to lose any mileage or give our muscles time to cool down. Then, we ran through the school hallways and we followed the hockey team out of the school. We actually accompanied them on their long run for a few minutes.

We wound our way back to the water stop, where we enjoyed Gatorade slush puppies and frozen peanut M&Ms. Let me tell you, those were the best M&Ms and slushes we've ever had in our entire lives! THANK YOU DFMC volunteers! I always worry about the DFMC volunteers because they have the harder job out there. The runners are able to stay warm because we're moving, but the DFMC volunteers must FREEZE! They always take good care of us, and they are never without a smile!

We only had three miles to go after the water stop. It was then that we had to watch out for otter-dogs. There were "wildlife crossing" signs posted along the route, and there was a picture of an animal on each one of them. The problem, however, was that we couldn't tell what kind of animal it was. It had the head of an otter and the legs and tail of a dog. Watch out for otter-dogs! You bet I would be running fast if an otter-dog came out of the woods. Sigh. The things that keep you preoccupied during a long run can be semi-outrageous sometimes! At least we have a good time out there and make the best of the cold weather!

After we finished our long run, we went flyer dropping on Newbury Street. I am so ready to crash for the evening and it's only 8pm. Well, goodnight readers!

P.S. I have received almost 19,000 hits on my blog!!! If I only had one dollar for every one of those hits!! I would surpass my fundraising goal! If you are reading my blog, please take the time to sponsor my run sometime this week at http://www.rundfmc.org/katyc2009. Your support is greatly appreciated as I press on towards my $10,000 fundraising goal!



FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 196.0
Total Time Running: 35:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 84.5

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00

Fundraising Update

A lot has happened since my last post! We held our bowling event and raised approximately $900!!! Can you believe it!?! It was so nice getting together with friends and family after work, and we are pleased with the outcome.

I sent out a ton of letters and messages, and the contributions are coming in. My Aunt Doris sponsored my run in memory of her friend Debbie. Last year, Debbie sponsored my run too. The note that accompanied my aunt's gift read, "This donation is given in memory of my friend Debbie Petersen - Died from Cancer 6/26/08." I thought of Debbie during my long run, and I will continue to think of her during my training. I called my Aunt to thank her for her contribution, and we had such a wonderful conversation. It turns out that she used to be a "tom boy" too. She excelled in baseball, and people called her "Slugger Higgins" because she only hit home runs. I hope that my aunt will be able to join my parents out on the route on Marathon Monday. This experience has brought us closer together.

I mailed ribbons out with all of my letters, and asked friends and family to write the names of their loved ones on the ribbons. Yesterday, I received a contribution from my Aunt Pat. The name on the ribbon was "John Edward Counihan." I do not remember my grandfather because he died from lung cancer not long after I was born. It will be an honor to wear his ribbon on my singlet during the marathon. My Aunt Pat's contribution was her last Dr. Martin official titled donation because she just retired!

We have 15-20 people scheduled for Deep Water Running on Wednesday, and we're receiving emails about the Skate to Freeze Cancer 2! The hair cut-a-thon is in full swing as well! Will post event-specific updates tomorrow!

Log It!

Friday, January 24, 2009
7:30PM (5 Miles)
Pond Run
Weather: 40F
Conditions: Warm. Dark
Gut Rating: 1
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 10 mph

Awesome run with Kay! Got a little lost, but loved the new route!! We ran all over Brookline and off the beaten path. Checked out the beautiful houses, and visited the snow-covered reservoir. This might've been my favorite run this year! We were only supposed to run four, but we accidentally ran 5. Our next run is an 11 miler!

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 184.5
Total Time Running: 33:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 73

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00



Thursday, January 22, 2009
7:30PM (5 Miles)
BHAC - Treadmill
Weather: Indoors
Conditions: Hot!
Gut Rating: 4
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 10 mph

Got off to a rough start, but found my pace after playing w/ the buttons on the treadmill. It was so hot! Not the best run. Kay ran in the morning today, so I was on my own.

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 179.5
Total Time Running: 32:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 68

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00




Tuesday, January 20, 2009
7:00PM (7 Miles)
BHAC - Treadmill
Weather: 8F
Conditions: Dark. Cold.
Gut Rating: 4
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 10 mph

This run was TOUGH! I did seven miles on the treadmill without music or television to distract me! Stared at the wall for seven miles. If I can do that ... I can run another marathon.

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 174.5
Total Time Running: 31:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 63

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00



Sunday, January 18, 2009
7:00PM (2 Miles)
Treadmill
Weather: 30F
Conditions: Hot!
Gut Rating: 1
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 10 mph

Jammed to the tunes. Cranked it on the treadmill. Watched figure skating!!! ... GREAT RUN!

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 167.5
Total Time Running: 29:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 56

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00



Saturday, January 17, 2009
9:30AM (10 Miles)
Hills x 2
Weather: 10F
Conditions: Sunny and Coooold. No wind.
Gut Rating: 2
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 10 mph

Awesome long run with Kay! We ran the hills twice and finished in under two hours! Discovered that I have the strange ability to keep my water bottle from freezing! LOL. First double digit run!! Felt great after my massage last night!

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 165.5
Total Time Running: 29:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 54

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00



Thursday, January 15, 2009
6:00AM (7 Miles)
BC Run
Weather: 30F
Conditions: Sunny
Gut Rating: 2
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 10 mph

We found a new route this morning and saw the sun rise! I enjoyed this one, but Kay wasn't feeling well. We cut through Boston College.

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 155.5
Total Time Running: 27:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 44

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00



Tuesday, January 13, 2009
7:00PM (3 Miles)
Neighborhood Loop
Weather: 30F
Conditions: Dark
Gut Rating: 3
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 10 mph

We ran all over creation tonight.

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 148.5
Total Time Running: 25:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 37

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00




Monday, January 12, 2009
6:30M (9 Miles)
Hills
Weather: 30F
Conditions: Dark
Gut Rating: 1
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 10 mph

Today was a roommate run! Kate, Kay and I ventured out for our long run today. I got faster as the run progressed. Felt AWESOME!

FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 145.5
Total Time Running: 25:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 34

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00

Laundry

Runners have a lot of laundry, especially in the winter when we have to dress in layers. I almost can't keep up with it! I know some guys wear their running clothes on multiple occasions, but I don't want to scare away my donors. Since I have the Zipcar today, I'm going to do some of my laundry over at Owen's apartment.

Road Trip

Looks like the group run was cancelled for the weekend due to the incoming storm. I'm going to do some crosstraining on Sunday and do my long run on Monday instead.

On a different note, I'm full steam ahead with my fundraising. I just drove to Lowell to drop off a bunch of flyers for the Skate to Freeze Cancer at the Colonial Synchro Classic with Kay. Thank goodness for Zipcar! There will be over a thousand skaters in attendance at the event, and the Skate to Freeze Cancer will be posted on the jumbotron and announced over the loudspeaker. I hope that everyone picks up a flyer at the registration desk!

We're hoping to conduct two separate skate-a-thons, and I may conduct a third one on my own at UMass Amherst with the help of the UMass Figure Skating Team. We're currently trying to book the ice for the skate-a-thons. Our dates are still tentative. FMC Arenas has graciously offered to donate the ice in April, and we're still working on securing ice for our February event in the Boston area. We'll be sure to keep everyone posted!

Recovery Run

Friday, January 9, 2009
7:00AM (2 Miles)
Rt. 9
Weather: 22F
Conditions: Sunny
Gut Rating: 2
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 10 mph

This morning, we completed a two-mile recovery run. I chuckle a little bit on the inside whenever someone uses the words "recovery" and "run" in the same sentence. I understand the concept of a recovery run, but it's funny to me how runners recover from running by running more. When I skated for Disney on Ice, I used to find it humorous when we'd go skating on our days off. I'm think I'm beginning to like running, and I suppose that's a good thing because I'm training for a marathon.


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 136.5
Total Time Running: 23:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 25

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00

Multitasking

Thursday, January 7, 2009
6:00AM (7 Miles)
BC Loop
Weather: 40F (took off my jacket)
Conditions: Dark ... then Sunny
Gut Rating: 3
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 11 mph

Last night, we decided to work on our fundraising in exchange for our mid-week long run. We prepared an Evite for "If Looks Could Cure" and for "Deep Water Running for Dana-Farber." To make up for our run, we completed our long run early this morning. It was pretty dark when we left the house, but the sun was shining when we returned. We really watched our footing because it was still fairly icy from our last storm.

We completed a new route today, which naturally means that we got a little lost. I have such a good sense of direction in the car, but I could defintely use a GPS during my long runs. I used to keep maps with me, but they would disintegrate in my pocket. Not very helpful if you ask me! Anyhow, we asked for directions at Boston College and took a shortcut through campus. I was looking out for Katherine and Tricia, but they probably weren't wandering around school at 6am.

We're right on schedule with our training, and my body feels pretty good. I'm a little more cautious this year because I know what happens when you're not careful. Marathon training hasn't been too stressful. I just wake up and run. I've come to the conclusion that fundraising is the bigger challenge.

I've been working SO hard on my fundraising events. I almost have too much on my plate, but I would never admit it in person. To put things in perspective, we have events on January 21st, January 28th, February 8th, and possibly on February 18th and April 3rd. I'm sending out my fundraising letters and I'm asking for $10 contributions from my Facebook friends. And - that's not all! I'm also getting married, studying for the LSAT and working a full time job. You only live once, so you might as well do it all!

Last year, I asked my Facebook friends to sponsor my run, but I didn't get a huge response. This year, I'm asking my Facebook friends specifically for $10 contributions. I figured that this was a good "ask" because things are pretty tight fro many people this year, and I haven't seen some of my Facebook friends in awhile. My $10 dollar mission on Facebook has been really successful so far because I received gifts from many people who did not contribute to my run last year. It can take a little while to request contributions from all of your Facebook friends, but I would definitely suggest this fundraising tactic to my DFMC teammates!

Speaking of multitasking ... I'm blogging and stretching at the same time! I should join the circus or something. Oh wait. I already did that! LOL. Have a great day!


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 134.5
Total Time Running: 23:00:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 23

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00

Round Two

Monday, January 5, 2009
6:00PM (5 Miles)
Neighborhood loop
Weather: 41F
Conditions: Dark
Gut Rating: 4
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 10 mph

The ice thawed, so we decided to run five miles this evening. I wore my new, blue running top from Brian and Kate. Thanks guys! We definitely ran faster than usual, but my body felt tired after my first day back to work in eleven days. It was nice having Kay's company because she really kept me going tonight.


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 127.5
Total Time Running: 21:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 16

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00

GUT RATING SCALE:
(1) Great workout! Could have run twice as far (if I threw caution and The Plan to the wind).
(2) Rewarding effort - felt almost great.
(3) Worked up a decent sweat - had fun in general.
(4) Heart and soul not out here with my body, but...The Plan, Boss, The Plan!
(5) Thank goodness the race wasn't today. I'd rather be doing almost anything else.

Knockin' Down Cancer

Please join us for bowling, pizza and drinks... The more the merrier!

Location: Lucky Strike, 145 Ipswich Street, Boston, MA 02215

When: Wednesday, January 21, 6:00PM

Who doesn't love to bowl? And what if it were for a good cause?

Kay and I are running the 113th Boston Marathon in April with the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge Team and we are raising money to help their efforts to find a cure for cancer. We would love your help.

$25 gets you in and covers the cost of bowling, shoes and pizza for two hours! 100% of all money raised will be going to Dana-Farber's Claudia Adams Barr Program for Basic Innovative Cancer Research.

Please respond to this post if you would like to be added to the Evite. Hope to see you there!

Best Efforts

Monday, January 5, 2009
6:30AM (0 Miles)
Neighborhood loop
Weather: 25F
Conditions: Black Ice
Gut Rating: N/A
Perfect conditions for a marathon (ha!).
Pace: 0 mph

We woke up nice and early this morning to run five miles, and I was really feeling it today. Unfotunately, we stepped outside and onto a skating rink. Our street was sheer ice! Tires were spinning around us and getting nowhere. For some reason, we thought that sidewalk/road conditions would be better along the main drive, but we were wrong. Despite the black ice, we contemplated running for almost twenty minutes before we decided to turn around and head inside. On to "Plan B"! Instead of running on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, we're following a Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday schedule this week. Tonight will be my first crosstraining day in a long time. Yahoo! Way to ring in the New Year!


FUN FACTS: (since October 20, 2008):
Total Miles Logged: 122.5
Total Time Running: 20:30:00
Total Time Crosstraining: 00:30:00

MONTHLY MILEAGE:
Total Miles Logged October: 9
Total Miles Logged November: 41.5
Total Miles Logged December: 61
Total Miles Logged January: 11

MONTHLY CROSSTRAINING:
Total Hours October: 00:30:00
Total Hours November: 00:00:00
Total Hours December: 00:00:00

GUT RATING SCALE:
(1) Great workout! Could have run twice as far (if I threw caution and The Plan to the wind).
(2) Rewarding effort - felt almost great.
(3) Worked up a decent sweat - had fun in general.
(4) Heart and soul not out here with my body, but...The Plan, Boss, The Plan!
(5) Thank goodness the race wasn't today. I'd rather be doing almost anything else.

If Looks Could Cure

Enjoy a haircut and blow-dry, appetizers, beverages, and giveaways at Acote Salon on Newbury Street to benefit the Claudia Adams Barr Program in Basic Innovative Cancer Research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Contact the salon at (617) 262-5111 to schedule your appointment.

Date: Sunday, February 8, 2009 (Just in time for Valentine's day!)

Time: 11:00am to 4:00pm

Location: Acote Salon, 132 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116

Price: $20 for men, $30 for women (Please bring cash or a check made payable to: "Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge")

This event is being organized by two marathoners (me and my roommate) who will be running the 2009 Boston Marathon for Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

A very special thanks to Acote Salon for donating its salon and stylists to make this event possible! Thanks to Acote Salon, 100% of the proceeds raised will benefit innovative cancer research!

Let me know if you're coming! :) ... Hope to see you there! :)

Deep Water Running for DFMC!

Deep water running is a good alternative workout for those suffering from ITB syndrome and other running-related injuries. It's also great for cross training!

Jack Fultz has volunteered to coach two back-to-back deep water running workouts for the DFMC team!

When: Wednesday, January 28, 2009 from 6-7pm and 7-8pm

Where: Evelyn Kirrane Aquatics Center, 60 Tappan Street, Brookline, MA (Parking available ... and it's a 2 minute walk from the Brookline Hills T-Stop on the D-Line)

Cost: $25 for a one-hour session (includes one hour of pool time, coaching, and belt rental)

*Participants will also be entered into an opportunity drawing to win a FREE 3-month membership at the Beacon Hill Athletic Club. (Fair market value: $177).

Respond to this post if you'd like to participate - with your name, email, and availability (6-7pm, 7-8pm, or both sessions). Space is limited, so register EARLY!

100% of the proceeds supports the Claudia Adams Barr Program and the registration fee is fully tax deductible.

*No purchase necessary to enter the opportunity drawing. Maximum 10 entries per person.

Thank you to the Evelyn Kirrane Aquatics Center for donating the use of its pool to make this event possible!