Its been a little over 10 hours (written Sunday, Feb 5, 2012) since I’ve stopped running and I’m still trying to wrap my brain on the grueling day and night.

After I woke up from a deep sleep, I was inching myself across the bed and this thought popped in my head “if you could see me now”. So I’m writing a bit about that first.

If could see me now you might see this:

• Crawling across the bed to charge my phone because it hurts to move.
• Swollen feet the size of footballs.
• Blistered, mud stained, and cut up (from duct tape) feet.
• Looking at my water bottle 12 inches away and calculating how much energy & how much energy it will take to get it and deciding it will take too much.
• Haven’t eaten a real meal since Friday evening and still don’t have an appetite. 
• Still in PJ bottoms, sports bra, race shirt, long sleeve shirt, jacket, and sweatshirt (some clothes 36hrs & counting). And shivering. 
• Lifting my right leg with my hands in/out of bed and any sitting/standing position because it is in so much pain 
• Sweat-dried hair.
• Sound asleep & being jolted awake with a soft scream as my feet blisters pop and continue to swell.

Stick around for the full, juicy report! And if you have any questions, post in the comment section.

peace, sweat, love: life

Most people write about the end of the year around the end of December or January. But I’m not most people.

While the calendar may say it is Feb. 4, 2012, today is my end of one year and start of another. Today also happens to be the day I am running 100 miles. Yes running. Yes all in one day (or less). When I first registered for the race, I didn’t notice the date. Till a few weeks ago. I don’t believe it is a coincidence. And for some, running 100 miles seems impossible. But for what I have been through in my life, 100 miles doesn’t really seems all that bad. I don’t know you how celebrate surviving one tough year, but as fate (?) would have it, I am running 100 miles. True Sarah Stanley fashion (I ran my first 100 miler on my 30th birthday to celebrate it). 

2011 was (another) tough year. Let me highlight a few of the majors.

1) Setting a goal of running all 18 RnR’s and raising funds and advocating for different causes (the FIT Project)

2) Sensing God’s call to move to Colorado and four weeks later I packed whatever would fit in my car, took the rest to Goodwill, drove 2,000 miles solo in the worst winter storm in 50 years and spent the first night in Colorado in my car (it was 9 degrees). Feb 4, 2011.

3) Lost several part-time jobs and a roof over my head

4) Had former friends (some so-called Christians) not only turn on me, but stab me in the back AND chest

5) Being falsely accused, mocked, bullied, attacked and hated

6) Betrayal of agreements and promises

7) Sometimes flying to the races I was committed for and not knowing where I would stay or how I would get there (because of 3)

But I want to focus on 2. I left the Washington, D.C., area on Jan. 31, 2011 and started making the trek to Colorado. That evening I ended up in Columbus, Ohio due to a bad ice storm moving in. I got stuck there for the next 36 hours. Finally, on Wednesday morning, Feb. 2, I was able to start driving again and drove through some nasty weather to end the day in a foot of snow in Kansas City, Mo. Feb. 3, I left Mo. and started the eternity drive across the state of Kansas. I thought it would never end. God bless all of you who live there. I spent all day driving through it! I shouted out loud when I saw the wooden “welcome to Colorado” sign! Driving over the mountains on Route 70 I hit a blizzard. Welcome to Colorado, Sarah. I finally made it to the promised land. Barely knowing a soul. 150 percent knowing that God wanted me here.

Feb. 4, 2011. Unknown future. Uncertainty. But a peace that calms even the most stressed out soul.

I was in a brand new place, new state – everything was unfamiliar. Unknown. There were moments when I wondered how I would ever make it, let alone survive. While the full details of 2011 will be disclosed in my book, I can say that I did survive (who else would be writing this?!) and in spite of some VERY tough times, I kept the faith. Was it easy? No. Was it hard? You bet. Was it the right thing to do? Absolutely.

So today as I run 100 miles, it is a celebration of living and surviving a very tough year. Running 100 miles will be a piece of cake, comparatively. Because when God wants to do a good work in AND with you, you heed that calling. Even when it is tough and rough and dark and lonely and just doesn’t make sense.

I listed the seven major things that made 2011 a very tough and rough year, but I always believe in the positive in spite of the negative.

1) That friendships I thought were good, but God knew they weren’t and replaced with much better ones

2) I learned that God always provides, but not in the way I thought he would

3) Strength doesn’t come when we are strong; strength is made when we are weak

4) Determined to keep living with the passion and the faith and the grace that brought me this far

5) Forgiveness is healing

6) A few key people that made me believe in friendships and trust again

7) That just because I had/have tough times, it doesn’t mean I quit/give up, it means you dig deep and keep the faith

Perhaps you just found this site because of what I am doing today (running 100 miles) and you are having a rough, tough year or just plain life. You might feel alone, depressed and wondering why you are here. Let me assure you that God not only loves and cares for you, but has a plan for your life (Jeremiah 29:11). That plan looks different for each one of us, but the one thing that remains the same is this: God loves each and everyone of us, no matter what state of that plan we are in.

Dear 2011, you taught me to never give me up. Dear 2012, remind me of 2011 when I am tempted to give up.

And Lord, to all of those who are struggling, help them not to give up. May my struggles help them to see that you are a God who cares and loves. Even in our darkest valley. Amen.

peace, sweat, love: life

Here it is. Race eve. Not just any race eve, but a 100 mile ultramarathon race eve.

It is Friday evening and I’m in Houston at Devin & Alida’s place. Devin is also running the 100 miler. Go us I’m just about to attempt to fall asleep at 7pm. 3:30am cometh quickly! 

I know people have questions about ultras, but particularly 100 miles in general.

#1) What will I eat?

I’ve written about it before, but aid stations (AS) don’t really have real, nutritious food. They have processed sugar, candy, etc. For this 100 miler I’ve made my food or bringing everything with me. At the AS I will eat cold, hard, boiled potatoes dipped in salt, fruit dipped in salt and hot chicken broth at night.

Here is the food I made and brought (and bought if we are going to get really technical!)

Sweet potatoes. I bought 7 LARGE sweet potatoes. I may never want to eat another one again! I mashed 5 and chopped the other 2. After mashing I added fresh, grated ginger, sea salt, a little honey, brewers yeast, cinnamon and a little Goji Juice. Once I filled the 25 little baggies, I added soaked chia seeds and hemp hearts.

Chopped sweet potatoes with fresh, grated ginger & cinnamon

Sweet potatoes with chia seeds

Sweet potatoes with hemp hearts and chia seeds

Row of sweet potato nutrition!

I will eat some pure energy nut bars (Lara Bar & Bearded Brothers), sunflower seeds, Q Energy, nut butter, and Gen UCAN. *I have no idea why it flipped the photos around. I didn’t have time to fix them. You’ll have to turn your computer or smart phone around if you are really picky

Gen UCAN (mix with water)

Justin's Nut Butter (almond)

sunflower seeds

Lara Bars

Bearded Brothers Natural Energy bars (with chia seeds)

Q Energy Drink (mix in water)

Alida also made cashew butter (raw/vegan) and I’ll have some with veggie chips. All the food I will be eating is additive free, chemical free, natural, and/or homemade. Just the way I like it

That’s the food part.

#2) Travel

For a big race (I think a 100 miler qualifies), I like to be at the race 2 days before hand. And smart decision that was. You never know about flight delays/weather/other. I flew into Houston, TX from Denver, CO. And not a moment too soon. A HUGE snow storm moved in just hours after I flew out. Hundreds of flights were cancelled. Thank the Lord I booked my ticket to fly out on Thursday.

Shannon picked me up at the airport and we made a quick trip to the store to get some ingredients (tuna, avocado, tomatoes) for my lunch. Then she dropped me off at Devin’s. I made my lunch, took a late nap, went and got all the sweet potatoes for race day and salmon for Friday’s night pre-race meal.

I had a good night of rest (although I was getting nervous) and woke up refreshed Friday morning. To a weather forecast of 80% rain and 83% humidity. 24 hours till go time.

I made 2 hardboiled eggs mashed with avocado and cut up cherry tomatoes for breakfast, then started preparing sweet potatoes! As they were baking I got some work done, shot a video, and tried to relax . Not much luck there. Ha! My best friend Rachel called me and then my friend Terry called and prayed with me. Definitely better after that!

Took a nap, mixed my sweet potatoes up and laid out all my food for tomorrow. This whole nutrition thing takes a lot of planning, prep and hard work!

Had salmon, peas and sweet potatoes for dinner and going to bed early. We have to be up at 3:30am and at the race by 5am. Race start is at 6am.

Pre race dinner!

I’ve trained hard for this. Put a lot of time, energy, and investment into it. I am ready by the grace of God.

My prayer is that I will run strong and that God will use my feet to honor and glorify him. And that children in Africa will be sponsored.

Thank you to my friends, my supporters, everyone that encourages me, and yes, even to the haters- you actually motivate me to do a better job for the Kingdom of God. So thank you!

I’ll be posting live updates as I am able (80% chance of rain might hinder that plan) or my crew will.

Till next time, may you be encouraged to go do something positive, something hard, and do it well.

Oh and you don’t want to miss tomorrow morning’s article. It’s really good if I do say myself.

Sweet dreams!

peace, sweat, love: life

Each Friday we feature a real-life person who has embraced a healthy lifestyle from a former sedentary life. We hope their story inspires you to start living and breathing a healthy life!

Today’s story is from Adrienne who lives in Phoenix, Ariz.

Sarah: 2003 was the year that started the change for you, can you share with us what happened?
Adrienne: In 2003, I moved to Arizona to take yet another job in television. While I’d been somewhat athletic growing up, I was always raised to think it was better to be smart, than pretty. And it showed. By the time I arrived in Arizona, I was at least 50 pounds overweight, a complete party girl, with many health issues looming on the horizon (diabetes, stomach issues, etc) and most of all, my self-confidence was shot. And I didn’t realize ANY of these things.

Sarah: How did you start your healthy life journey?
Adrienne: Through circumstance, a co-worker was successful following the Weight Watchers program, so I thought, “Why not?” In April of 2004, I’d removed 56 pounds to reach my goal weight, and was approached by Weight Watchers about becoming a Group Leader – and helping others reach their goals. Again, I thought “Why not?” and agreed to take the facilitation training and start part-time. Within weeks of the training, I realized that TV was no longer a good fit for me, and came to work for WW full time.

Sarah: Wow! That is incredible! Tell us about your new job!
Adrienne: Fast forward eight years, and I’m now one of the Managers of the company, helping with training, media and still leading members to reach their goals each week, some even taking off more than a hundred pounds.
This isn’t a WW commercial, though. Losing the weight sparked me to find ME. I often say “My outside matches my inside now.” I’m confident. I’m raising my family to be healthy and active, so they can avoid the struggles I had. My daughter has a fabulous self-image, which means the world to me, since I didn’t have that kind of role model growing up.

Sarah: Tell us how you started running.
Adrienne: After having my daughter, I was trying to find “my thing.” That thing that was mine, that wasn’t work. Or family. And some friends across the country reminded me about running. I’d dabbled in running here and there, but didn’t think much of it. Well, having a toddler was enough to make me lace up my running shoes and hit the pavement.

It was quiet. I could think. Or not think. And my feet just kept moving. The miles became my therapy. And I felt stronger and more confident than ever before. That was fall of 2010. Since then, I’ve run two half marathons, and more than a dozen other races. And then, less than two weeks ago, I crossed the timing mats of my first marathon. Needless to say, I’m hooked.

Sarah: What is life like today for you?
Adrienne: I’m healthier and happier at 34 than I was at 24. My goal used to be just to see my next birthday. Now my goal is to be that healthy, white-haired woman who passes the young whipper-snappers at races, while encouraging them the whole way.

Sarah: Do you have any healthy goals for 2012 and beyond?
Adrienne: My  goal is to run seven races. Raging from four miles to two marathons. I have specific time goals for the marathons so I’m working with a coach on that. Incorporate some cross-training and continue to live a healthy life!

Adrienne before

 

Adrienne after (finishing a race)

Back-to-back Marathons Part 2!

I was exhausted and feeling the affects of Jackson, Miss. hills when I fell into bed last evening I wondered how in the world I was going to run ANOTHER marathon in mere hours.

I woke up at 5 a.m. and prayed that God would give me the strength, courage and grace to finish this morning’s marathon. Ken had picked up my race packet last evening and that was a godsend. I had no energy to go pick it up. I repeated what I did 24 hours previous (mixed my Gen UCAN and got dressed) and hit the road for the short drive to the race start.

This marathon (BankTrust First Light Marathon) was very low key. It fully supports the L’ Arche Foundation. No chip time, the start line was a painted orange line, and gun start. Just the way I like it. I was still in a fog and between stages of pain and sleepwalking.

7:30 a.m. and the race began. I was thinking that I was going to be walking a lot and told myself to give the race my all. Whatever my all was. Surprisingly, my legs actually moved. And not just moved, but ran. I was happy. As each mile came and went, my legs began to get the hang of it. YESSSS …

There were other people who had run the full yesterday as well and so we quickly bonded. Or commiserated. Regardless we all encouraged each other. Around Mile 5 I started running with another back-to-back marathoner. He was VERY experienced, had run over 100 marathons and many, many back-to-backs. I quickly started asking him questions. We were also running at the same pace so it was a natural fit to run together. I think we were both happy for the company. He had run this course the last five (?) years and so he knew the tough parts on the course. 

I remember my heart kind of sinking when he said that this is a tough back-to-back to do. Great! Good thing I like challenges. Ha. He paced the five hour group yesterday and was shooting for a 4:30 finish time today. He figured I could run that time. The only caveat was that I ran pretty hard yesterday on a tough course and today’s course was not as hilly, but still tough. I don’t shy away from doing my best and said I would run a 4:30 pace as long as I was able to.

Mile 17-18 was a big climb, the sun came out and we grabbed oranges before we started up it. Although I was tired, I still felt strong. And determined to hit that time goal. The highest point of the race course came around mile 20. Most people don’t think Mobile, Ala., has hills. For the most part it doesn’t, but at mile 20 we were looking over the city. Good times.

And what goes up must come down. So we started a slow descent. After a few last climbs, we finally hit the last five miles and flatness! Happy, happy. I pushed a little harder and passed a ton of people. Including some relay runners that had just started. That felt good.

The last 5K I ran really strong and before I knew it, I was hearing the sweet sounds of the finish line. After a few turns, there it was and I ran the second marathon in a 24-hour span in 4:27! As I crossed the line I threw up a little and my new friend held me up. I stumbled over to a chair and tried to fully comprehend what I just accomplished. Tom helped me over to a bench and went and got me food. So awesome.

As I sat there, I was completely stoked and proud of myself. At the start of the day I had NO idea how I was going to walk, let alone run and I surprised myself by running pretty much the whole way. The feeling can not be described. To God be the glory.

The race was absolutely amazing. The marathon is fully supported by the L’Arche Foundation. From their website: “L’Arche is an international federation of communities in which people with an intellectual disability and those who help them can live, work, and share their lives together.” And that community MADE our medals and the special back-to-back awards. So touching. The marathon fees went strictly to L’Arche. The post-race party was also great. Tom, myself and other runner friends we made all talked about the race and other things where you wished you a mouse on the ground .

Soon, it was time to hobble back to the car and go get a shower! I wasn’t able to take an ice bath, so I put my legs up on the wall (a good trick to know) and then slept for a few hours. It felt great to sleep – finally!

Ken had friends over in the evening for dinner and it was great to meet more friendly people! I washed my sweaty clothes and then I went to bed. I had an early flight (again).

All in all it was a great, whirlwind, sweaty, long, fun weekend. My first back-to-back marathons done and won’t be my last!

The first weekend of January I embarked on my first ever back-to-back marathons. What is a back-to-back marathon? Glad you asked! A back-to-back marathon is when you run a marathon Saturday morning and then run another marathon Sunday morning. So 52.4 miles (plus travel) in 24 hours. Let’s just say it’s not for the faint of heart.

While I’m used to ultra distances and hardcore events, doing something for the first time still has that vibe of nervousness and anxiousness.

I’ve been training for Rocky Raccoon 100 mile ultramarathon and I needed to get in some long miles. I figured what better way to get the miles in then to add another challenge to the plate. Back-to-back-marathons it was! I registered for the races a few months previous and I was really excited to run both. I love home town races!

A 2:30am wake up call and I was once again bound for the airport- my second home at this point. I flew into Mobile, AL after a layover in Houston where I had to run from one terminal to another. I got my warmup run in early! After landing in Mobile, the hunt was on for some healthy food. No Whole Foods Market Bar this time. Thankfully I found a Panera Bread and had a salmon salad.

After getting to my friend’s place, I took a much needed nap. Feeling refreshed I buried myself with work and then researched for a nearby yoga studio. I was in for a treat! There were 8 people including myself. One of the fun things about traveling all over the country is the diversity of yoga studios across the nation. I love it!

It was a great practice- perhaps because I finally did a headstand! I had been practicing for years and I finally got it. It clicked when the yoga teacher had me squeeze my inner thighs- right above my knees- together. Granted the headstand was against a wall, but I was still excited.

That evening Ken made seared tuna and a green leaf salad. So, so good!

Friday morning it was time to hit the road and head up to Jackson, MS. Along the way I stopped and met up with Heather. It was a nice way to stretch the legs!

The drive from Mobile, AL to Jackson, MS was a little over 4 hours. Traffic was slow going through a few towns. However the drive went by quickly as I listened to messages by Steven Furtick at Elevation Church.

Finally arrived in Jackson and headed to the expo. It was small and awesome. They had a blues band playing, a harmonica in our goodie bag, and everyone was super friendly. Then I checked in to my hotel and pondered what I would have for dinner. The marathon had a list of places that were offering marathon specials vs a traditional pasta dinner which was another bonus point for Mississippi Blues Marathon!

I found a cute little restaurant and had a salad with crab. Got a gallon of water at CVS on the way back to the hotel and then crashed early. Oh what a party animal I am on a Friday evening!

Saturday morning came quickly. I rolled out of bed, went through my usual race morning rituals (drink my Gen UCAN, sleeveless shirt, compression socks, shorts, shoes with orange laces and a big smile ) and then headed to the start. It was on the cool side, but I knew it would be warm/hot/sunny later on, so I warmed up by doing some yoga poses while waiting in the potty line.

7:00am and the marathon was officially started! Let the back-to-back marathons journey begin!

As we started out the sun was rising and it was beautiful. Right away the course had a climb. My legs were feeling really, really good. It is amazing coming down from elevation to sea level. I felt strong and happy to run! I kept a pretty good pace and was surprised by how friendly everyone was! Usually I’m the one who talks to people around me- it was nice to have others start the conversation!

As the course went on, I was starting to realize that Jackson, MS had hills. And not just one or two, but like 50. I’m not kidding. The only thing saving me was that I was at sea level. However, sea level made me feel too good. I ran really strong, enjoyed the course, the people, the volunteers and wondered why no one told me that Jackson, MS had freaking hills! By mile 20, I was really feeling the affects of the heat and hills. I reminded myself that I had a marathon to run tomorrow so don’t die today.

MS Blues Marathon elevation graph

I just kept running and reminded myself that there was an end even if I didn’t see it. Finally, I could see and hear the finish line. Of course finishing on a slight incline. 4:12 and finished 7th in my age group. Not too shabby!

After crossing the finish line I walked over to the sidewalk and collapsed on the concrete. It felt great to just lay down and gaze at the sky. But I couldn’t linger long- I had an ice bath to get and another drive BACK to Mobile, AL. I dragged myself over to the post-race party and the food spread was pretty great. They had sandwiches, cookies, tomato soup, rice & beans, pizza…if you are looking for great post-race food, put Mississippi Blues Marathon on your list!

I sat on an ice chest as I ate some food and then a volunteer needed to get in it. I told her she would have to shove me off. I was so exhausted. She graciously got me a chair and I transferred my tired butt to it. Then I scrapped myself off the chair and began the walk over to the car. I saw some relay runners and I casually mentioned to them that they made the right choice.

I stopped at a gas station on the way home and bought 20lbs of ice. Ah, ice bath. It couldn’t happen soon enough. I lugged myself and the ice up to the room. Where is my sherpa when I need one?! After freezing my legs off, I got a warm shower and hustled to pack up and check out. Someone suggested a cafe to get some food and I stopped on my way out of Jackson. I met a nice couple and we ate together. I love nice runners!

I shot a quick video before finally hitting the road. Jackson, MS it was nice to see you all of 20 hours!

I stopped in Biloxi, MS on the way back and dipped my feet in the ocean and watched the sun set. Never miss an opportunity to enjoy the ocean!

I got back to Mobile, AL around 7pm, got a bite to eat although I was more tired than anything and fell into bed at 8:30pm. Marathon morning was just hours away.

We’re kicking off a new series called Fitness Friday! Each Friday we’ll feature a real-life, inspiring story of someone who has changed their life from inactive to healthy.

I think you’ll be really inspired by today’s feature!

Matt is 26 and lives with his wife, Lindsey of 3.5 years in Greenville, SC. They hope to adopt a child in the next year. He is a branch manager for a local bank and you can follow him on Twitter.

Matt & Lindsey (before life style change)

Sarah: What motivated you to start losing weight and exercising?

Matt: Three factors primarily: one, was a diagnosis of pre-hypertension (high blood pressure) at age 23. My doctor had me on blood pressure drugs and warned me I might have to take them the rest of my life. Second, I began to notice that the pants which had fit me all through college didn’t fit so well anymore! Finally, and most important, was the quiet encouragement of my dad. He took up running in his late 40s for his health and had even gotten into racing a little. It occurred to me that I couldn’t conscience a world where my own dad could outrun me. Plus, he seemed to be enjoying it so much that I figured I’d should try it.

Sarah: How did you and your dad help each other?

Matt: Well, we live 700 miles apart so chance to actually run together are pretty unusual. But I can tell you, every time we are in the same state on a weekend we are looking for a race to run together! For example, this summer we are planning to do Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, MN. Also, we text each other often about workouts. We both have to get up between 4-5 am on weekdays to get a run in before the day starts!

Sarah: How long did it take you to reach your goal weight?

Matt: I started my running career at 240 pounds. A fitness challenge at work inspired me to watch my diet and keep up the exercise. Within 15 months I had dropped from 240 to my target weight of 165 – I guess that works out to about 5 pounds per month.

Sarah: love the healthy weight loss! 

Sarah: You have some impressive and inspiring marathon and half marathon times! Share them with us!

Matt: My first three marathons were anything but impressive in terms of time goals (but I had fun!). I really hadn’t built up the physical stamina to run that kind of distance so I ended up walking much of the last 6-8 miles. Then in October 2011 a training plan with much higher mileage finally got me ready and I ran a 3:04:35, just 25 seconds faster than my Boston qualifying time. In that race, I was running with the 3:10 pace group until mile 14 when I decided I was going to go for broke and see if I could make up 5 minutes on the last 12 miles and I did!

My half marathon PR came just a couple weeks ago at a local race. It was 1:23:35. I’m pretty happy with that but I definitely feel like I can improve.

I’ve also done a couple of ultramarathons – one 50K and one 24-hour run. Both were very low-key events with about 80 runners in a state park. Those were surprisingly fun. Not a lot of pressure to finish in a certain amount of time, and you can really enjoy nature and companionship with other runners.

Sarah: What do you love about running?

Matt: Where do I start? I love being able to get out an enjoy the world on foot. I love the fact that I’ve made friends with runners all over the country. I love beautiful sunrises enjoyed in solitude on the trail near my house. I love the thrill of toeing the line at the start of a race, full of anticipation about what will happen over the next 3 or 13 or 26 miles. I love my volunteer work as the social media guy for PACE Running Magazine (on Twitter @pacerunningmag). I love coming in from a hard training run knowing I’ve left it all out there. I love being able to clear my head before or after a busy day at work.

Sarah: In order to drop the weight, you had to not only start running, but also change the way you eat. What is your plate today vs before?

Matt: I worked in foodservice at the university I attended, and that meant all-you-can-eat buffets three times a day. Nice for a college kid on a tight budget but not great for my waistline! Since then, I’ve become much more concerned with eating unprocessed foods. We live less than a mile from a great little farmers’ market, and we probably shop there more than we do a regular grocery store. I limit my meat consumption and have really grown to love some “unusual” vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and avocado.

Sarah: So many people are looking for a quick fix when it comes to their health. What would you say to them?

Matt: It’s not going to be quick. Almost everything in life that’s worthwhile takes time, effort and patience. The most important thing is to write down your goals and your plan to get there. Nobody is successful by thinking “You know, I’d like to be healthier.” You have to have specific goals and a detailed plan on how to get there.

Sarah: What are your goals for 2012? 

Matt: I spent a good amount of time on New Years’ Eve 2011 writing out what my goals would be for the coming year. Here are some of the running-related ones: sub-2:50 for a marathon; sub-1:20 for a half marathon; run 3,000 miles total, and enjoy every day of it. But the one I’m most excited about is this: help at least 3 other people get started with running so they can enjoy this sport that’s become such a big part of my life.

Spinx Marathon 2011

Thank you Matt, for sharing your incredible story with us! We hope this encourages others to take that first step- literally- and start embracing and living a healthy life!

peace, sweat, love: life

In 11 days I will be embarking on my second 100 mile ultramarathon (and 12th ultra distance). Gulp. I’ve been writing my – ahem – detailed nutrition plan, crewing description and other ultra descriptions. While ultra vocabulary is second nature to me, in talking with my roommate (Kelli) I realize it’s not. So I thought it would be fun to do a little “ultra talk.” Enjoy!

Oh and before we go any further, I’m running 100 miles to help get 100 children sponsored in Africa with World Vision. Would you consider sponsoring a child with me?

Ultramarathon Definition First of all, an ultra is technically classified as anything over a marathon (26.2 miles). But running 26.3 miles isn’t quite what an ultra is. Sorry, nice try. The four classic ultra distances are 50K, 50 miles, 100K and 100 miles.

Crew Crew is typically used for 50 miles, 100K or 100 miles. Crew is your own personal support team. Sherpas. Moral support. Sock changers. You get the idea. Your crew can be 1 or 10. The crew meets you at the designated race aid stations. While the aid station (AS) are fully stocked with provisions and friendly faces, it is really nice to know that you have a team eagerly awaiting your arrival. The crew’s job is to get you in and out of the AS as quickly as possible. The clock is ticking! They will make sure you have the food you want/need, refill water bottle, pull your shoes off, change socks, bandage your feet if you have blisters, give hugs, pep talks…. Pretty much whatever you need. You might only see them for only five minutes in 90 minute or four hour stretch, but just that little bit of interaction is awesome. When you are out running in the big, spooky, dark forest, YOU CAN’T WAIT TO SEE THEM. It gives you something to look forward too. Crew is awesome. Side note: if you ever have the chance to crew or volunteer at an ultra (particularly a 100 miler), do it. The experience is life-changing.

Pacers Pacers are typically used for the longer ultra distances (100 miles). Pacers are other runners who will run WITH you, give you moral support, make sure you don’t wander off to see the teddy bears and encourage you. They are not mules (meaning they don’t carry any of your nutritional supplies or other). They simply run with you.

Ultra Environment Ultra races are primarily run on trails. Cross country. Translation = hard, challenging, not for the faint-of-heart. And if it’s an ultra, you can bet that the course will be unusually tough. From rocks to boulders to crazy elevation gain to LONG climbs to nasty weather (either freezing cold or really HOT)… Yeah, ultras are pretty hardcore if I do say so myself!

Aid Stations (AS) Aid stations are little pieces of heaven in the middle of hell (oops, was that too negative?!) AS are part of the race and as an ultra runner, we really look forward to them. Personally, I use each AS as incentive to get to the next one. While most of AS have a lot of junk food, my go-to food is cold, boiled potatoes dipped in salt, oranges, red grapes, watermelon … I don’t eat grains/dairy/processed sugar so my options are usually pretty limited. This is where crew comes in handy. The volunteers are always friendly, helpful and some have themed AS. Aid Stations are always a highlight of my race day! Not all AS let you have access to your crew, so you make the most of what you have.

Drop Bags Drop bags are small bags (not a giant suitcase) you’ve pre-filled with what you think you’ll need. If an AS doesn’t allow your crew in, a drop bag can be handy. Depending on the ultra distance, you might include shoes, socks, your special fuel/nutrition that you use, etc. Drop bags are at certain AS- not all of them.

Ultra Times If you have run marathons and are looking to run an ultra, first of all, congratulations! Second, throw your marathon times out the window. Marathon times mean nothing when it comes to ultra running. Remember previous definition of ultra surface? Cross country is hard. Fun, but hard. Running an ultra is more about enjoying the forest and challenging yourself vs time. By all means, have a goal time, but be realistic. For a 50k, you can add anywhere from two to four hours to your marathon time. 50 miles, double your marathon and then some. For 100 miles, survive .

Cutoffs. Cutoffs are time limits. You have to make it to aid stations by a certain cutoff time. Make the cutoff!

Ultra Conditions I touched on this briefly above. Ultra race conditions are usually pretty challenging (as if running 100 miles wasn’t hard enough!) Depending on location and month of ultra you can expect snow, rain, hail, lighting, bears, cougars, bobcats, snakes, steep climbs, mud, leaves, slippery leaves, roots, hidden roots, rocks, hidden rocks, beautiful scenery, boulders, crazy elevation (Leadville or Hardrock anyone?)… having fun yet? When you run an ultra be prepared for ANYTHING. While they are fun, they aren’t easy.

Have I whetted your ultramarathon appetite? I hope so! They are thrilling, exciting and will challenge every part of your being. If you are looking to run a ultramarathon, let me know!

Peace, sweat, love, life.

Photo of shoes after finishing Vermont 50 Mile Ultramarathon

FIT Project Savannah, Ga. Edition

Race date: Nov. 5, 2011

I barely left the West Coast (LAX), spent 40-ish hours in Colorado and then jumped on another plane for the East Coast. WHEW.

I had an EARLY flight (5:30 a.m.). To make matters worse, I was traveling on a standby ticket and get this – LEFT MY TICKET AT HOME. How’s that for a Thursday morning? I had to wait to get it which meant I missed my flight. Thankfully, Southwest Airlines rocks and I was able to get a direct flight. However, I did have five hours to kill at the airport so I slept on the floor. Oh the fun we have!

After flying to Jacksonville, Fla., I had to make the 140-mile drive up to Savannah, Ga. I got to Savannah just as the sun was setting. Whirlwind.

I met up with friends for dinner and a walk around the town squares. We walked past Paula Dean’s restaurant and the smell of fried food turned my stomach. It was a challenge to find a healthy meal in this town! I ended up eating a burger sans bun with extra lettuce. And longed for a bowl of veggies!

Savannah had a lot of ghost tours, but we just walked around. Saw the bench where Forest Gump said “Life is like a box of chocolates.” Savannah was a very clean town and enforced a no heckler policy.

Friday was spent wandering, expo-ing, relaxing and having FUN. It was the first Friday and that meant fireworks! We watched them from a hammock by the water front. It was awesome.

Race morning came early. And it was chilly. It was 35 degrees at the start. Perfect. I was pacing David (who likes to run fast at the start). It was a challenge to hold him back.

I was really excited to run another marathon. My last long race was Sept. 25 (VT50 miler). Today was a benchmark for me – if I felt good I would sign up for BIG race. Stay tuned for the verdict!

Last evening, Land Shark was handing out Land Shark hats. I got one and David and I both wore them during the race. Little did we know they would be such a HUGE hit! And I mean HUGE.

Like I said, I was pacing David. I kept trying to rein him back. The first half of the race doesn’t really matter how fast you run it in if you can’t run the back half. But I was going to try my best.

The course was not all that scenic. We did get to run through a few neighborhoods and outskirted the downtown area which was nice. The best part though? THE SPECTATORS. They were fantastic! I’ve run all the “big marathons” (NYC, Chicago, Boston, Marine Corps Marathon) and the spectators at Savannah were awesome. They packed almost the entire 7-8 mile stretch. And they SCREAMED when they saw my Land Shark hat. It was awesome. I made a mental note to wear it at every race!

Soon we reached the point where the half and full course parted ways. Always an interesting feeling . This stretch of the course was out on a highway. The sun was out, but it was still cool. Thank God, because if it was humid, this part would have sucked. Highways aren’t fun to run on as it is!

We reached the halfway point and David began to tell me to go on ahead. I wanted to stick with him a bit longer, but by the next mile I knew I should go on ahead. I was feeling really strong. So the Land Sharks parted ways.

There was a group of guys who were cheering someone running my pace, because I was able to partake of their cheering four times. It was great. They ADORED my hat. By the third time I saw them, they were yelling “Land Shark! Land Shark! Go girl, go!” Thank you!

Mile 17 (?) was also awesome. It was Savannah State College  (I think? Some college) and they were out in full force. From manning the water station to do high fives to a cheering squad, the energy was amazing. It was a GREAT boost!

One thing I try to do when I am running a marathon is call out of words of encouragement along the later miles. Or when passing a mile marker. “Look guys, 18 miles down!” Today was no exception. I shouted “Mile 18 folks! Great job!” Two guys responded by saying it was their first marathon. I encouraged them and told them they were doing awesome.

Mile 20 and only 6.2 miles left. I yelled out “10K left! Single digit miles baby!” Not only does this encourage me, but those around me too. Love it.

Soon, the course was back on the highway and we were running on a slant. And not just a slant, but the wind was ferocious. You need to keep your head up when you run, but the wind was not making it easy. As we runners leap-frogged each other we made remarks about the wind.

Soon, Mile 24 was finished. I yelled out “2.2 miles to go!” The course had a gradual uphill the last mile. And don’t forget the wind giving us extra work! Thankfully, my Land Shark was holding on for dear life and it provided great encouragement the last miles.

Soon, the finish line was within hearing distance. And then sight distance. I ran strong to the very end. 4:16. I felt great and knew my “reward” was on.

I was in the finish area and a older lady tapped me on the back. I turned around and she told me thank you for the encouragement and inspiration I provided on the course. She didn’t even know me! How’s that for a positive impact? I think it rocks!

After shivering under a space blanket, drinking some water and getting some food, it was time to head back to the hotel. For a shower.

I have to say, I felt absolutely great. It is awesome to be able to finish a marathon and not feel like you ran one.

Another race down. Three more in the series to go. To God be the glory!

So what was my reward? By signing up for another 100 mile ultra marathon. This will be my second one. I’m not naive about. Just because I’ve done it once, doesn’t make it any easier. But I am excited to run another one. Yep. Another 100 freaking miles. God help me!

FIT Project Los Angeles Edition

Date: Oct. 30, 2011

From St. Louis to California (I’ve spent most of October here!) I feel more like a bird at 3,600 feet than a runner. No, that’s not true, but it sounded good . 

It was nice to be back in sunny California. I really enjoyed this trip because I got to hear Jars of Clay at a free concert at Saddleback Church! Jars of Clay is one of my favorite groups and I was completely stoked that they were playing when I was in town! Although it made for a late, late Saturday night (I like to go to bed early), it was well worth the lack of sleep.

But it just wasn’t a lack of sleep, it was also a lack of FOOD. For some reason I spent the whole time rushing around the city, driving, etc., that I didn’t get a chance to eat. I kept thinking, next hour, next hour, before church/concert, after church/concert. Well, yeah. That never happened. By the time we got back to Los Angeles, it was midnight. No way was I eating at that time! So I went to bed with a grumbling tummy. Always a joy .

I was staying close to the race start, so I had the luxury of rolling out of bed an hour before race start, drinking my Gen UCAN and walking to the race start. It was the day before Halloween so A LOT of people were dressed up. As if Hollywood needed any more characters :).

My friends and I got in the corrals. Ready to rock another race! I really wanted a 1:49:59, so Jarrett and I ran together. David also started out with us, but slowed down at the 5K mark.

I wasn’t sure what to expect of the course, but I was pleasantly surprised that we got to run through some scenery. There were a few hills. And the hill at Mile 9 (“the bridge”) broke me. Jarrett got away from me and I wasn’t happy about it, but knew there wasn’t much I could do about it either! Soon the horrible hill was finished and the race course made a U-turn and we ran back down it.

The sun was out and it was getting hot. I just wanted to finish! I pushed a little harder. This part of the course was an out and back and my friend Raf was running up the hill I just finished and we gave each other high fives. The course had us run back through the tunnel and people were having fun hearing their voices echo.

I saw a guy that was running a good pace and I joined him. Turned out we were both pushing each other. Soon, we emerged from the tunnel and headed down the hill to the finish line. I pushed a little harder and dropped said guy. Soon I crossed the finish line. 1:52:04. So stinkin’ close to a 1:51. Oh well. A finish is a finish right?

The following day my finish was a little more eery. A guy that finished right around the time I did (9 a.m.-ish) died. I was thankful for just finishing.

After the race, it was a busy day, ending with a sunset dinner at the Santa Monica pier.

Four more RnR races, baby. Four more.