Monday, April 15, 2013

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.

Monday, February 21, 2011

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!

Sunday, February 20, 2011

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.

Friday, September 4, 2009

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.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

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

Sunday, June 7, 2009

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)!

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

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!

Monday, May 11, 2009

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!

Sunday, May 10, 2009

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 :).

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

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

Thursday, April 2, 2009

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?!

Monday, March 23, 2009

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!