Its been awhile since I have written. It seems some days life just takes over and I do not get a chance to do this. We have been diligently working on our fundraising, selling coffee, hot chocolate and candy bars. My brother has been very helpful in selling coffee and hot chocolate by him at work. This has been very helpful. Dan and I are close to hitting the recommitment amount needed. Scott still has a little ways to go. I am hoping some of his friends or their parents will come through for him along with a few letters he sent.
We have done two group walks now. The longest we have done has been 5 miles. This weekend we will be walking 6 miles. Training has been going well. As long as I remeber to stretch a little before walking and a litle while walking, by the 3rd mile, my leg muscles are finally warm and I am good to move along. Dan has been patient with this and is great by keeping pace with me for we are able to walk together.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Thursday, November 5
Sitting at the bowling alley watching Dan bowl. We walked before coming, so it has been a good night so far. At least my legs are not in as much pain as they were before.
On Tuesday, I made a visit to the PT at the store In Step. This is where we purchased our shoes, because they take the time to fit shoes to make sure you get the correct type that will give the support needed. I met with the PT, he took the time to watch how I walked, he actually video tapped my walking on a tread mill. He also checked the calfs muscle stiffness to find out where I was having the pain. Even though I was stretching after the walks, the stretching I was doing was not enough and I was not doing the proper stretches. Then on he also suggested I use a foam roller that is used to work the calf muscles and loosen them up.
Using the foam roller also gives a upper body workout when working the back of the calfs and then it works the stomach muscles when working the front of the legs. Wow after two days, my stomach muscles hurt already. I might actually be able to get some stomach muscles back again.
During the appointment, the PT mentioned I had well developed calf muscles, but I was not bending my ankles when walking. If I did not get the muscles loose, I would continue to have pain and as I tried to walk faster, the pain would just get worse and I would not be able to walk or want to walk the marathon. Since I started doing this on Tuesday, walking has been bearable. The pain has lessened and I can get through the walk with a little less effort.
Training should get better as we start to get into longer walking times and miles. As well as training, we are still fundraising. We have two more events that have just come up. We are going to be planning a Christmas party for kids as a fundraiser. Then we are planning a joint birthday party for Scott and myself. This is also going to be a fundraiser as we celebrate Scott turning 27 and me turning 50. I am hoping we will get support from family and friends and they will come and celebrate with us.
On Tuesday, I made a visit to the PT at the store In Step. This is where we purchased our shoes, because they take the time to fit shoes to make sure you get the correct type that will give the support needed. I met with the PT, he took the time to watch how I walked, he actually video tapped my walking on a tread mill. He also checked the calfs muscle stiffness to find out where I was having the pain. Even though I was stretching after the walks, the stretching I was doing was not enough and I was not doing the proper stretches. Then on he also suggested I use a foam roller that is used to work the calf muscles and loosen them up.
Using the foam roller also gives a upper body workout when working the back of the calfs and then it works the stomach muscles when working the front of the legs. Wow after two days, my stomach muscles hurt already. I might actually be able to get some stomach muscles back again.
During the appointment, the PT mentioned I had well developed calf muscles, but I was not bending my ankles when walking. If I did not get the muscles loose, I would continue to have pain and as I tried to walk faster, the pain would just get worse and I would not be able to walk or want to walk the marathon. Since I started doing this on Tuesday, walking has been bearable. The pain has lessened and I can get through the walk with a little less effort.
Training should get better as we start to get into longer walking times and miles. As well as training, we are still fundraising. We have two more events that have just come up. We are going to be planning a Christmas party for kids as a fundraiser. Then we are planning a joint birthday party for Scott and myself. This is also going to be a fundraiser as we celebrate Scott turning 27 and me turning 50. I am hoping we will get support from family and friends and they will come and celebrate with us.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Monday, November 2
Well, it is a new month and we are ending the 40 minutes walk and will be increasing to 45 and 50 minutes. Next week we will actually start with mileage. Last night, I started out before Dan and Scott, because they were not quite ready. I told them that they walk fast enough they will be able to catch up. So, here we go. I know they are behind be somewhere, but cannot hear them. After a little bit, I can finally hear them talking, but wondering why they have not caught up. I figured they were playing with me and figured since I have a slower pace, it should not take long for them to catch up. Well, it came to where the route went down hill and since we have been trying to incorporate some running (if that is what we can call it), i decided to jog. Needless to say, since it was down hill, the pace was a little quicker than they expected. All of a suddent they realized I was moving faster than I originally started. Needless to say they had to pick it up a little to catch up. Finally, we are all walking together. Of course I was out of breath.
After completing the walk, Dan and I went to Erin and Josh's to drop off some milk and potatoes. It was after 8:00 p.m. and we thought Mackenzie would be in bed. To our surprise she was resting with mom, but still up. I decided to sit in the rocking chair to visit a little before we left. All of a suddent, Mackenzie asked to come by me, then she says, " gramma read." She goes to her room, comes back with a book (Merry Christmas Curious George), crawls up on my lap to be read to. This was great! It is not often I get to read a bed time story to Mackenzie. After this, Dan and I got up to leave and Mackenzie crawls back up by mom to snuggle before bed.
What a wonderful way to end an evening.
After completing the walk, Dan and I went to Erin and Josh's to drop off some milk and potatoes. It was after 8:00 p.m. and we thought Mackenzie would be in bed. To our surprise she was resting with mom, but still up. I decided to sit in the rocking chair to visit a little before we left. All of a suddent, Mackenzie asked to come by me, then she says, " gramma read." She goes to her room, comes back with a book (Merry Christmas Curious George), crawls up on my lap to be read to. This was great! It is not often I get to read a bed time story to Mackenzie. After this, Dan and I got up to leave and Mackenzie crawls back up by mom to snuggle before bed.
What a wonderful way to end an evening.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Group Training
On Saturday, October 24, we had our first group walk. Our coach Jen planned out a walk in the Wauwatosa area which was approximately 4 miles. Jackie, Dan, Jen and myself all particpated in this walk. We were missing two. We started out together as Jen discussed attire to wear during the walks and being prepared for the weather.
We met at 7:00 a.m and the morning was cold. This was a good day to experiment with how many layers may be needed as the weather gets colder as we progress through the training. After a little bit, Dan and I went out in front as Jen walked with Jackie. The one thing about the training, everyone walks at different paces, so it is an opportunity to pair up with someone else and get to know others on the team.
As Dan and I walked, Dan was keeping his hands up in his sleeves, his hands were cold (and he did not bring any gloves). Being the good wife, I gave him my gloves. This helped him not to be so tense while walking. Now, you may be thinking that my hands are cold. Always have a backup plan. One of my layers had sleeves with a cuff/mitt that folds over the hands. I was good.
Even though Dan and I walk hills during our training during the week, there was one hill that gave a little more challenge. Even Dan complained his shins hurt. Dan and I finished about 15 minutes earlier than Jackie and Jen. As we waited for them, it gave us the opportunity to stretch. I really noticed at this time my hamstrings were tight. It was a good morning of training.
It has been fun and exciting to be able to train with Dan. It has a different feeling doing this together, totally different from when I trained in 2007/2008 for the Rock n Roll Marathon in Phoenix.
We met at 7:00 a.m and the morning was cold. This was a good day to experiment with how many layers may be needed as the weather gets colder as we progress through the training. After a little bit, Dan and I went out in front as Jen walked with Jackie. The one thing about the training, everyone walks at different paces, so it is an opportunity to pair up with someone else and get to know others on the team.
As Dan and I walked, Dan was keeping his hands up in his sleeves, his hands were cold (and he did not bring any gloves). Being the good wife, I gave him my gloves. This helped him not to be so tense while walking. Now, you may be thinking that my hands are cold. Always have a backup plan. One of my layers had sleeves with a cuff/mitt that folds over the hands. I was good.
Even though Dan and I walk hills during our training during the week, there was one hill that gave a little more challenge. Even Dan complained his shins hurt. Dan and I finished about 15 minutes earlier than Jackie and Jen. As we waited for them, it gave us the opportunity to stretch. I really noticed at this time my hamstrings were tight. It was a good morning of training.
It has been fun and exciting to be able to train with Dan. It has a different feeling doing this together, totally different from when I trained in 2007/2008 for the Rock n Roll Marathon in Phoenix.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
We have been training, but it has been a challenge some days trying to find the time. We are only walking time right now to just get our endurance built up. In November, we will be starting with miles. One night Scott joined us and I thought Dan walked fast. Dan even made a comment about how I take one and half steps to his one, Dan was taking one and half steps to Scott's one. Scott was thinking about joining us in training for the marathon and participating. I think his bubble got burst when he went to work and tried to get support.
Another night, we went out late and took Mackenzie (our 2 year old granddaughter) with us. What an adventure. It was dark and we needed to take a flashlight. I had one and we Mackenzie always likes to have a flashlight. We gave her one. We tried to get her to shine it out front when a car would come and that is when she would hide it. Then she would shine it up at Dan as he is pushing the stroller, in his face, then he could not see where he was going. It is always fun when the granddaughters come along.
Last night it was actually very warm here, it hit 69 degrees. Dan and I walked at 6:45 p.m. Pretty dark, but it is surprising how many other people are out walking together or with their dog. We have to take advantage of the nice weather when we can right now. Today it is raining, but we will probably use this as a rest day, since I am attending a stretching clinic tonight (if I feel better) and Dan bowls.
Another night, we went out late and took Mackenzie (our 2 year old granddaughter) with us. What an adventure. It was dark and we needed to take a flashlight. I had one and we Mackenzie always likes to have a flashlight. We gave her one. We tried to get her to shine it out front when a car would come and that is when she would hide it. Then she would shine it up at Dan as he is pushing the stroller, in his face, then he could not see where he was going. It is always fun when the granddaughters come along.
Last night it was actually very warm here, it hit 69 degrees. Dan and I walked at 6:45 p.m. Pretty dark, but it is surprising how many other people are out walking together or with their dog. We have to take advantage of the nice weather when we can right now. Today it is raining, but we will probably use this as a rest day, since I am attending a stretching clinic tonight (if I feel better) and Dan bowls.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Tuesday, October 13
Today was a stressful day for Dan and myself. I arrived home at 5:00 p.m., Dan was not home yet, so I decided to start getting ready to walk because I had a meeting I needed to go to at church. As I was putting my socks on, Dan drives into the subdivision. When he enters the house, Scott says to Dan, you better hurry because mom is ready to go. As we are about to head out the door, we remember Schwans will be coming soon. We have our list created, so we decide to put it on the door and ask Cary to come back later.
Off we go. This time we take a different route in the subdivision and as we are walking, we are listening to birds and I believe we heard the same owl from the night before. One thing I really enjoy about waking in the subdivision is that we never know what we will see or hear.
Writing about the training is not always entertaining, but it helps me to put things into perspective. Again, we are on the 40 minute training schedule for this week. This is to get us use to walking longer time periods, because when we start getting into the longer training days of miles, we will be walking for a minimum of an hour to start before going for 2-3 hours.
As we walked back into our subdivision, the Schwans truck drove past. Yes, it was Cary the Schwans man. We have formed a relationship with Cary and we always enjoy talking to him when he comes each month. It is great to learn how others have handled circumstances in their lives. With the sharing, we learn how these circumstances has made each person stronger in life. Then to our surprise, Cary was the first to actually make a online donation for us. What a blessing he is in friendship.
These are the days that will be challenging, but with the support of family, friends and prayer, we will strive on for the purpose we started this for. To continue to help Emma (our sponsored child) and the many individuals that are affected by blood cancers.
Off we go. This time we take a different route in the subdivision and as we are walking, we are listening to birds and I believe we heard the same owl from the night before. One thing I really enjoy about waking in the subdivision is that we never know what we will see or hear.
Writing about the training is not always entertaining, but it helps me to put things into perspective. Again, we are on the 40 minute training schedule for this week. This is to get us use to walking longer time periods, because when we start getting into the longer training days of miles, we will be walking for a minimum of an hour to start before going for 2-3 hours.
As we walked back into our subdivision, the Schwans truck drove past. Yes, it was Cary the Schwans man. We have formed a relationship with Cary and we always enjoy talking to him when he comes each month. It is great to learn how others have handled circumstances in their lives. With the sharing, we learn how these circumstances has made each person stronger in life. Then to our surprise, Cary was the first to actually make a online donation for us. What a blessing he is in friendship.
These are the days that will be challenging, but with the support of family, friends and prayer, we will strive on for the purpose we started this for. To continue to help Emma (our sponsored child) and the many individuals that are affected by blood cancers.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Monday, October 12
Today was the first day of 40 minutes of walking. Dan and I walked through the subdivision across the street. While we were walking we left Scott to start dinner. He had Peyton for the night and we were waiting for Erin and Josh to bring Mackenzie over for the two girls could spend time together. While we were walking, Mackenzie was dropped off and Erin and Josh ran off to Walmart to pick up a few things. Now that left Scott with two 28 month old girls and trying to make dinner.
Dan and I are enjoying our walk together, working on a fast pace and listening to an owl hoot in the trees. Now, Dan and are 3/4 the way through the training when we receive a phone call from Scott asking where we are. I ask him, why, what is going on. He then proceeds to tell us, how he has both Peyton and Mackenzie on his own and his hands are full of flour and dough and he has two little girls that had accidents. I can just imagine the sight. When we arrived home, Scott had both girls by the cutting board helping him roll and dough and cut noodles. He did well.
We finally got dinner finished and had a good time letting the girls play and visiting with the kids.
Dan and I are enjoying our walk together, working on a fast pace and listening to an owl hoot in the trees. Now, Dan and are 3/4 the way through the training when we receive a phone call from Scott asking where we are. I ask him, why, what is going on. He then proceeds to tell us, how he has both Peyton and Mackenzie on his own and his hands are full of flour and dough and he has two little girls that had accidents. I can just imagine the sight. When we arrived home, Scott had both girls by the cutting board helping him roll and dough and cut noodles. He did well.
We finally got dinner finished and had a good time letting the girls play and visiting with the kids.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Week of October 5
The last time I posted, it was Monday, October 5. On Tuesday, we did walk. I started the walk without Dan because he had to work late. When he met me, I was 3/4 the way through the walk. We finished the walk together before it started to rain. On Wednesday, we walked down the road to Kohl's. It is about 2 miles. Wednesday was to be a rest day, but I figured a shorter walk would be good, plus Dan needed some items to walk in the upcoming cold. Making sure we have the appropriate clothing to walk in the cold weather is so important. There is no wimping out now because it is too cold. Thursday was our rest day, so we did not walk, but Dan did bowl.
Friday morning early we headed out to meet friends (that we know from NWMC) in Holland, MI. Needless to say it rained the whole way and was still raining when we arrived. We could not walk, due to not bringing appropriate rain gear. We ended up driving around for a few hours before being able to check into our hotel. When our friends finally arrived, we went into downtown Holland and did some window shopping. Yes, in the rain. At least it was only drizzling then.
On Saturday morning, we all drove to Grand Rapids, MI and walked around the outside art show and downtown Grand Rapids. Of course, this was after we finally found parking and I thought parking downtown Milwaukee was bad. After saying our good byes, friends headed back to Detroit, MI and Dan and I headed back to the hotel in Holland. The weather was still good, so Dan and I took this opportunity to walk around a small area of Holland to get our training in.
After this, we decided to see a movie (Couples Retreat) and take some time to relax. It was a good weekend with friends.
Friday morning early we headed out to meet friends (that we know from NWMC) in Holland, MI. Needless to say it rained the whole way and was still raining when we arrived. We could not walk, due to not bringing appropriate rain gear. We ended up driving around for a few hours before being able to check into our hotel. When our friends finally arrived, we went into downtown Holland and did some window shopping. Yes, in the rain. At least it was only drizzling then.
On Saturday morning, we all drove to Grand Rapids, MI and walked around the outside art show and downtown Grand Rapids. Of course, this was after we finally found parking and I thought parking downtown Milwaukee was bad. After saying our good byes, friends headed back to Detroit, MI and Dan and I headed back to the hotel in Holland. The weather was still good, so Dan and I took this opportunity to walk around a small area of Holland to get our training in.
After this, we decided to see a movie (Couples Retreat) and take some time to relax. It was a good weekend with friends.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Dan and I have been training for a little over a week. The training was off to a slow start, but we are now picking it up. The first week, it was hard to get into the training, we seemed to be busy every night and then it would rain. On Saturday, October 3, Dan had to walk by himself, because I had a work function at Great America. Let me tell you though, I did get my walking in.
Our coach has started our training different this time. When I trained in 2008, I was scheduled to walk so many miles each day. This time, we are just walking so many minutes each day. It does not matter how many miles we walk. Even with this, Dan and I are still pushing for a goal of walking faster than I did in 2008. Now for Dan this is easy, he has long legs and has longer steps than I do. For me, it is about one and half steps for one of Dan's. Dan's goal is to finish the marathon (26.2 miles) in 6 hours. He is hoping to cut a minute off my time of 14 min 51 sec mile.
During our time walking we get to talk and catch up on what is going on. How the day went and what we need to do. Today, Dan was very excited because he actually received his first donation from a co-worker.
So training has started, we are doing it together, which is great! It has also been reassuring, when others let us know that it is great we are facing this challenge together.
To keep up with our progress, please visit our Team page at the link below.
http://pages.teamintraining.org/wi/mardigra10/TeamSaugstad
I look forward to letting you know how we are doing. Thanks for visiting my blog. Brenda
"He give strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength." Isaiah 40: 29, 31
Our coach has started our training different this time. When I trained in 2008, I was scheduled to walk so many miles each day. This time, we are just walking so many minutes each day. It does not matter how many miles we walk. Even with this, Dan and I are still pushing for a goal of walking faster than I did in 2008. Now for Dan this is easy, he has long legs and has longer steps than I do. For me, it is about one and half steps for one of Dan's. Dan's goal is to finish the marathon (26.2 miles) in 6 hours. He is hoping to cut a minute off my time of 14 min 51 sec mile.
During our time walking we get to talk and catch up on what is going on. How the day went and what we need to do. Today, Dan was very excited because he actually received his first donation from a co-worker.
So training has started, we are doing it together, which is great! It has also been reassuring, when others let us know that it is great we are facing this challenge together.
To keep up with our progress, please visit our Team page at the link below.
http://pages.teamintraining.org/wi/mardigra10/TeamSaugstad
I look forward to letting you know how we are doing. Thanks for visiting my blog. Brenda
"He give strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength." Isaiah 40: 29, 31
Friday, March 14, 2008
Friday, March 14
Well, I have not posted in a while. Yes, I did finish the marathon. I was able to do it within the goal I had set for myself. It was great to participate in the Team In Training Marathon on behalf of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Since I have participated, more individuals have come to Dan and myself and are letting us know they have leukemia or they have been recently diagnosed with leukemia. This disease is hitting more and more individuals every day.
After the marathon, my sister, Annette, joined me in Phoenix for a few days of fun. Monday after the marathon she picked me up from the hotel and had to take me to urgent care, because I ended up getting an ear infection in one ear and fluid on the other. After our trip to urgent care, we went to the arboretum and did some hiking on the paths and then up the high path into the mountain. We took many photos and had a great time. On Tuesday, we drove up to Sedona, through Cooperstown and Jerome. Once we arrived in Sedona, we took a Pink Jeep tour. The jeep drove up into the mountains, over large boulders, and off trails. It was great. We were able to experience something new. Annette and I have never taken a trip together before and we found we actually had a good time. We may even think of doing it again.
I took a break from walking for a few weeks, but I have now started up again. I enjoy walking and Dan and I use to walk all the time before I came out of remission and started going through treatments. The walking is great to release stress and just get some time outside.
I started walking before Dan, Don (my brother) and I traveled to Albuquerque. I thought I would be able to walk there, but I only was able to get on the treadmill one night. We did walk through Old Town and then took a tram ride up Sandia Mountain. The three of us had a great time, touring a small area of Albuquerque.
I just returned from Phoenix from a work trip. In Phoenix, once again, this time I stayed at the Hilton Tapatio. It is a resort set in/on a mountain. The few days I was there, I was able to get out and walk. The first day, I walked up the road that led to a restaurant on top of the mountain. The concierge said this hill gave even the best athletes a battle. Well, he was right. On Sunday, I friend from California joined me. We decided not to walk all the way up to the restaurant, but if you get to the bottom of the hill that leads to the restaurant, you have done the worst. On Monday and Tuesday, another individual from UW Whitewater decided to join me. We walked the entire hill on Monday. On Tuesday, we did not finish the last part up to the restaurant. We decide to walk one more trip around the hotel area where the roads were not as steep. The view from the top of the mountain was beautiful. Walking up just for the view was worth it. While we took in the view, we could catch our breath before starting the journey down.
After the marathon, my sister, Annette, joined me in Phoenix for a few days of fun. Monday after the marathon she picked me up from the hotel and had to take me to urgent care, because I ended up getting an ear infection in one ear and fluid on the other. After our trip to urgent care, we went to the arboretum and did some hiking on the paths and then up the high path into the mountain. We took many photos and had a great time. On Tuesday, we drove up to Sedona, through Cooperstown and Jerome. Once we arrived in Sedona, we took a Pink Jeep tour. The jeep drove up into the mountains, over large boulders, and off trails. It was great. We were able to experience something new. Annette and I have never taken a trip together before and we found we actually had a good time. We may even think of doing it again.
I took a break from walking for a few weeks, but I have now started up again. I enjoy walking and Dan and I use to walk all the time before I came out of remission and started going through treatments. The walking is great to release stress and just get some time outside.
I started walking before Dan, Don (my brother) and I traveled to Albuquerque. I thought I would be able to walk there, but I only was able to get on the treadmill one night. We did walk through Old Town and then took a tram ride up Sandia Mountain. The three of us had a great time, touring a small area of Albuquerque.
I just returned from Phoenix from a work trip. In Phoenix, once again, this time I stayed at the Hilton Tapatio. It is a resort set in/on a mountain. The few days I was there, I was able to get out and walk. The first day, I walked up the road that led to a restaurant on top of the mountain. The concierge said this hill gave even the best athletes a battle. Well, he was right. On Sunday, I friend from California joined me. We decided not to walk all the way up to the restaurant, but if you get to the bottom of the hill that leads to the restaurant, you have done the worst. On Monday and Tuesday, another individual from UW Whitewater decided to join me. We walked the entire hill on Monday. On Tuesday, we did not finish the last part up to the restaurant. We decide to walk one more trip around the hotel area where the roads were not as steep. The view from the top of the mountain was beautiful. Walking up just for the view was worth it. While we took in the view, we could catch our breath before starting the journey down.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Saturday, December 15
Today is the day. It is the test, can we make the long haul. It is 18-20 miles. We have decided to meet at the Petit Center, since it is snowing again. 18 miles is 63 laps around the ice rink. At least in the Petit Center, there are other things going on. There is speed skating, hockey game, and figure skating going on.
Karen, Beth, Lori, Khris and myself have all met to start our walking together. There is no way we will all stay together for the entire walk since we walk at different paces. Khris is not feeling well, so she is taking it easy. Karen is coming in and out to have the opportunity to walk with each of us for a lap or two. Karen brought a clicker with her and Dan gave me a counter that he used for baseball umpiring to keep track of laps. My counter only went up to 19, so I had to reset and keep track of where I was.
Lori (she is one of our mentors) left early, she was not feeling well either and her training for Anchorage, Alaska does not officially start until February, so she needs to be healthy. Beth finished her 11 miles, Khris, with not feeling well, only did 11 miles. Karen left when Beth did, so I was the last to leave and to complete the 18 miles. I wish I had my MP3 player with me right now. But, it still sent quickly with watching figure skating lessons and hockey training.
It is definitely more difficult to walk this many miles in an oval. It is harder on the legs, hips and muscles. Definitely more stretching has to be done during the walk and after the walk. Next weekend, it is 16 miles.
Even though, many times I finish on my own, I would not give up this training. I do enjoy the walking and having a few purposes for the training. With this marathon, I will be making a difference in someone's life.
Karen, Beth, Lori, Khris and myself have all met to start our walking together. There is no way we will all stay together for the entire walk since we walk at different paces. Khris is not feeling well, so she is taking it easy. Karen is coming in and out to have the opportunity to walk with each of us for a lap or two. Karen brought a clicker with her and Dan gave me a counter that he used for baseball umpiring to keep track of laps. My counter only went up to 19, so I had to reset and keep track of where I was.
Lori (she is one of our mentors) left early, she was not feeling well either and her training for Anchorage, Alaska does not officially start until February, so she needs to be healthy. Beth finished her 11 miles, Khris, with not feeling well, only did 11 miles. Karen left when Beth did, so I was the last to leave and to complete the 18 miles. I wish I had my MP3 player with me right now. But, it still sent quickly with watching figure skating lessons and hockey training.
It is definitely more difficult to walk this many miles in an oval. It is harder on the legs, hips and muscles. Definitely more stretching has to be done during the walk and after the walk. Next weekend, it is 16 miles.
Even though, many times I finish on my own, I would not give up this training. I do enjoy the walking and having a few purposes for the training. With this marathon, I will be making a difference in someone's life.
Week of Sunday, December 9 - Saturday, December 15
I am still on R&R. I have to start walking soon, my muscles are getting sore from not walking. It is now Wednesday and I decide to get on the treadmill. It is a slow process and I do not do many miles, but it is a start. On Thursday, I get on the treadmill once again, I walk more miles but at a slower pace, that is OK, I am walking and training again. Friday, I have off of work, I decided to check out the roads. I drive the route I used to walk, it is pretty clear. If I head out a little later, most of the traffic is gone. The sun is shining and it helps in walking since it is still cold. I am dressed in two layers on my legs, 4 layers on my upper half, with 3 layers on my arms. I put on a hat and have a covering for my face if I need it. I grab the MP3 player and I am on my way. I decide I am going to attempt 5 miles today. I start walking and all of a sudden I realize I am further into my walk than expected and it feels really good to be outside again. The 5 miles went by in no time and I felt like I had accomplished a milestone once again. I hope I am ready for Saturday, December 15, 18 - 20 miles.
Week of December 2 - 8
Now it has gotten too dangerous to walk outside with the snow and ice. The roads are not clear enough to stay out of the way of traffic. I have stated earlier I do not like my treadmill, but this week, the treadmill is becoming my worst best friend. We have been spending time together trying to pass the miles while starring at 4 walls. The TV does not always help, the MP3 player helps, but walking on the treadmill just gets old, not going anywhere. One night, Dan was sitting in the family room watching TV and talking to me, that helped the time to go by quicker.
Then, it hit me, I caught the cold bug. I was to meet with Karen on Friday, December 7 to walk 16 miles, because Saturday was already booked. Karen contacted me to let me know she could not walk because of still not being fully recovered. I mentioned I was down with a cold, and she recommended that I do not walk the 16 miles, my body had to recover from the cold, or I would not be able to walk the full marathon. She was not worried about me missing the mileage, since I have been training all along. So, rest it is.
Then, it hit me, I caught the cold bug. I was to meet with Karen on Friday, December 7 to walk 16 miles, because Saturday was already booked. Karen contacted me to let me know she could not walk because of still not being fully recovered. I mentioned I was down with a cold, and she recommended that I do not walk the 16 miles, my body had to recover from the cold, or I would not be able to walk the full marathon. She was not worried about me missing the mileage, since I have been training all along. So, rest it is.
Saturday, December 1
Today, I met with some of the others from the team. The full marathon individuals had to walk 14 miles. This is the longest that we have done so far. Before we started, we decided to get a photo of the 3 of us, Khris (full marathon), Karen (coach) and myself. Karen walked with us for most of the miles, but because she was ill earlier, she did not walk the full 14 miles with Khris and myself.
Once Karen left, Khris and I were on our own. This was definitely a chilly day and we also wanted to finish the walk because we were due to get snow. Khris and I finished before the snow started. We met up at the end with two runners and as we were talking and stretching it started to snow. I left quickly because I had to head up to Mequon where Erin was playing in an alumni basketball game (I was already late) and I was picking up Mackenzie to take her to a Christmas party and to see Santa. I now have Mackenzie and it is snowing harder, I was taking it easy, there were already a few spinouts and an accident. I am down on the south side of Milwaukee, where the freeway splits to go south towards the airport and west. I was about one mile from the exit where I needed to get off, when a car slows down to get behind a semi-truck. I decided to move over ( was only going 25 mph, as it was), as I moved over, my car fish tailed out of control and I went off the road. Mackenzie slept through the whole incident, but it was scary. The thoughts that went through my mind is that I have new tires and I do not want the car to flip, I was on a grassy slope. Neither of us were hurt, I was more shaken up, Mackenzie had no idea what was happening.
After 3 hours of Dan and his mom waiting with me on the side of the road (in Dan's van), and a police officer waiting behind us to make sure the tow truck he called showed up, I was finally pulled off the grassy slope. When I started to drive the car to the nearest exit, the car would not get any traction. The car continued to slide when traveling 5-10 mph. We finally made it to the destination and then home.
I found out later that the tires that were put on my car are not tires for snow. I called the dealership that put the tires on my car, after about a week, they decided to check out the tires and confirmed what I have been telling them that the tires were bad. Now I am waiting for new tires.
Once Karen left, Khris and I were on our own. This was definitely a chilly day and we also wanted to finish the walk because we were due to get snow. Khris and I finished before the snow started. We met up at the end with two runners and as we were talking and stretching it started to snow. I left quickly because I had to head up to Mequon where Erin was playing in an alumni basketball game (I was already late) and I was picking up Mackenzie to take her to a Christmas party and to see Santa. I now have Mackenzie and it is snowing harder, I was taking it easy, there were already a few spinouts and an accident. I am down on the south side of Milwaukee, where the freeway splits to go south towards the airport and west. I was about one mile from the exit where I needed to get off, when a car slows down to get behind a semi-truck. I decided to move over ( was only going 25 mph, as it was), as I moved over, my car fish tailed out of control and I went off the road. Mackenzie slept through the whole incident, but it was scary. The thoughts that went through my mind is that I have new tires and I do not want the car to flip, I was on a grassy slope. Neither of us were hurt, I was more shaken up, Mackenzie had no idea what was happening.
After 3 hours of Dan and his mom waiting with me on the side of the road (in Dan's van), and a police officer waiting behind us to make sure the tow truck he called showed up, I was finally pulled off the grassy slope. When I started to drive the car to the nearest exit, the car would not get any traction. The car continued to slide when traveling 5-10 mph. We finally made it to the destination and then home.
I found out later that the tires that were put on my car are not tires for snow. I called the dealership that put the tires on my car, after about a week, they decided to check out the tires and confirmed what I have been telling them that the tires were bad. Now I am waiting for new tires.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Saturday, November 24
It is Saturday after Thanksgiving. It is a 14 mile day. Definitely a good walk to work off the Thanksgiving meal. Today, Lori, Jen and Mary joined Beth (1/2 marathon) and myself. Khris was out of town for the holiday. We started out together, then Jen and I picked up the pace since I had to walk 14 miles and Beth only 8 miles. Everyone, but me was only looking at walking the 8 miles, because Jen and Lori had to flyer the Christmas parade in Grafton.
Jen walked with me to the Shorewood sign on Lake Drive on the East side of Milwaukee. Then she told me I was on my own. Jen did mention when she got back to her vehicle she would drive by to see how I was doing. I had to walk further north to make up the 2 miles we cut off by not walking the point by the McKinley Marina. Now, I am on my own and not sure where I was going. I finally saw the sign for Big Bay Park and looking to see which way I had to go, but then to my surprise, Jen and Lori were walking across the street to let me know where I needed to go. This is definitely what having mentors is all about. They were able to direct in the right direction and then again I was on my own. I was able to finish the 14 miles in about 3 hours and 10 minutes.
After walking, I went home to start Christmas cookie baking. I invited Abby, from church, to help with baking. Erin was there with Mackenzie wrapping Christmas gifts. Another long, but fruitful day.
Jen walked with me to the Shorewood sign on Lake Drive on the East side of Milwaukee. Then she told me I was on my own. Jen did mention when she got back to her vehicle she would drive by to see how I was doing. I had to walk further north to make up the 2 miles we cut off by not walking the point by the McKinley Marina. Now, I am on my own and not sure where I was going. I finally saw the sign for Big Bay Park and looking to see which way I had to go, but then to my surprise, Jen and Lori were walking across the street to let me know where I needed to go. This is definitely what having mentors is all about. They were able to direct in the right direction and then again I was on my own. I was able to finish the 14 miles in about 3 hours and 10 minutes.
After walking, I went home to start Christmas cookie baking. I invited Abby, from church, to help with baking. Erin was there with Mackenzie wrapping Christmas gifts. Another long, but fruitful day.
Tuesday, November 20
The three of us training for the PF Chang marathon who have been meeting for team walks decided to get together for a 5 mile walk. Sheila, an alumni, was able to join us. The four of us headed out after getting a few pictures before we started. We went about 5.2 miles and then headed home to start preparations for Thanksgiving. Again, it is always great to be able to walk and take the time to get to know another individual. We decided that we would continue to try to get together at least once each week for a team walk. As I mentioned earlier, we took some pictures, but I cannot get them transferred off the camera. We will have to take new pictures to post them on the site. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Saturday, November 17
What an early morning, had to drive to the lake front to meet with the team for a group walk. I finally met Khris, the other individual who is walking the full marathon. It was nice, because we walk at about the same speed, so we can keep each other focused. Today, it was 12 miles. This is the longest training so far. We finished the 12 miles in 3 hours and 10 minutes. That did include some stops on the way for Gatorade and a snack if needed. After the first Gatorade stop, Khris and I started to walk a faster pace and so we got quite a bit ahead of the individuals training for the 1/2 marathon. The 1/2 marathon training was 8 miles.
During this walk, we were able to talk to Team In Training alumni. They will come and walk with us to mentor and keep us motivated. It is always fun to hear about their past marathons and how many they did and what they are training for now.
After finishing the walk, Dan and I traveled to Babcock, Wisconsin, to Jeremiah's Crossing. We were planning on helping with a project on the ranch and learning more skills in training Journey. Before going to the ranch, we traveled to Marshfield to check into the hotel. After checking in, we went to the ranch where Erin and Mackenzie will be joining us. Finally, when we all went back to the hotel, we had everything on a cart and we headed for the elevators. We all got into the first elevator, hit the 3rd floor button, the elevator car did not move. We hit the alarm, no one came. Then we hit the emergency phone button, the alarms and intercom went off and finally someone from the hotel was on the phone. (Of course, I do not like elevators to start with, after being caught in one). Someone suggested we should try to open the doors, so Dan was able to push them open and we found out we never moved. We then proceeded to empty the cart and carry everything up to the 3rd floor. Between 3 of us, it was not too bad, good thing Dan and I checked in earlier. After arriving at our room, to our dismay our room keys did not work. Now, I had to go back to the registration desk to have our keys re-encoded and then back up to the 3rd floor.
Finally, we are getting settled. Erin goes in to the bathroom, sees some tissue in the toilet, so decides to flush it, now we have a plugged toilet and a wet floor. Does the excitement never end?! Well it did and we settled down to feed Mackenzie and get some rest.
During this walk, we were able to talk to Team In Training alumni. They will come and walk with us to mentor and keep us motivated. It is always fun to hear about their past marathons and how many they did and what they are training for now.
After finishing the walk, Dan and I traveled to Babcock, Wisconsin, to Jeremiah's Crossing. We were planning on helping with a project on the ranch and learning more skills in training Journey. Before going to the ranch, we traveled to Marshfield to check into the hotel. After checking in, we went to the ranch where Erin and Mackenzie will be joining us. Finally, when we all went back to the hotel, we had everything on a cart and we headed for the elevators. We all got into the first elevator, hit the 3rd floor button, the elevator car did not move. We hit the alarm, no one came. Then we hit the emergency phone button, the alarms and intercom went off and finally someone from the hotel was on the phone. (Of course, I do not like elevators to start with, after being caught in one). Someone suggested we should try to open the doors, so Dan was able to push them open and we found out we never moved. We then proceeded to empty the cart and carry everything up to the 3rd floor. Between 3 of us, it was not too bad, good thing Dan and I checked in earlier. After arriving at our room, to our dismay our room keys did not work. Now, I had to go back to the registration desk to have our keys re-encoded and then back up to the 3rd floor.
Finally, we are getting settled. Erin goes in to the bathroom, sees some tissue in the toilet, so decides to flush it, now we have a plugged toilet and a wet floor. Does the excitement never end?! Well it did and we settled down to feed Mackenzie and get some rest.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Monday, November 19
Today, the MP3 player and I went for our usual walk. During this walk, I was greeted by individuals and their dogs. It is always nice to see another individual in the morning, knowing you are not alone. I also met an older gentleman as I passed by him twice before I actually met up with him at the dent. During the second time around, he smiled and said, "I saw your twin on the other road." When I met up with him at the end of the 4 miles, he asked how many I was walking. I told him 4 today and that I was training for a marathon. He thought that was great, and then stated that when the weather permits, he walks about 2 miles and it takes him about 50 minutes.
We said good bye as he was on his last part back to his house and I turned into our driveway. You never know who we are going to meet, when trying to make a difference for others.
We said good bye as he was on his last part back to his house and I turned into our driveway. You never know who we are going to meet, when trying to make a difference for others.
November 12 - 16
This was another week of me and the MP3 player for the 4-5 mile walks each day. During this week, I actually had the opportunity to watch two deer walk across the road just a few yards in front of me during two different areas of the route. What a site to see. I bet the deer hunters wish they were there with me and it was hunting season.
On Friday this week, it was about 7:20 a.m. and it was really quiet during the walk. All of a sudden, I heard this sound, (like a bike tire coming to a quick stop and sliding across pavement). I jumped, along with my heart to my throat, turned around to see a squirrel about 3 feet off the ground moving toward a tree (it was like seeing Rocky, the flying squirrel).
Dan was hoping to start walking with me again soon, but he received a phone call from the doctors office, stating the molds for his orthotics were destroyed. He had to return to the doctors office to get the new molds made and now wait another few weeks.
On Friday this week, it was about 7:20 a.m. and it was really quiet during the walk. All of a sudden, I heard this sound, (like a bike tire coming to a quick stop and sliding across pavement). I jumped, along with my heart to my throat, turned around to see a squirrel about 3 feet off the ground moving toward a tree (it was like seeing Rocky, the flying squirrel).
Dan was hoping to start walking with me again soon, but he received a phone call from the doctors office, stating the molds for his orthotics were destroyed. He had to return to the doctors office to get the new molds made and now wait another few weeks.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
November 5 - 9
I know I putting this week together. Nothing really happened this week and I need to catch up. On Wednesday, I went to meet for the group walk at the Lake Bistro, downtown Milwaukee. Well needless to say, I was the only walker that showed up with all the runners. I was feeling a little left out. The nice thing about having coaches is, one of the coaches (the runners coach), MaryAnn said she would walk the 4 miles with me. She said I could set the pace, but she pretty much did, but then again she is a runner. I was able to keep up with her, just a few shin pains, but on the way back, no problem. Had to get my legs muscles warmed. It gave me a chance to get to know someone else from the TNT team.
Found out later that the walkers are not following the schedule that was originally set, even though it stated it was for the runners, we still followed it. I am hoping that the walkers can get a schedule set-up to meet during the week sometime to walk together. I have always enjoyed this time, walking with other TNT team members.
Found out later that the walkers are not following the schedule that was originally set, even though it stated it was for the runners, we still followed it. I am hoping that the walkers can get a schedule set-up to meet during the week sometime to walk together. I have always enjoyed this time, walking with other TNT team members.
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