In The Bag

Ever look at a woman's purse or wallet? Isn't it amazing what we will hold on to for fear of needing it some day?

I was sitting next to a friend of mine at a dinner party last week, and while she was searching for a few bucks to buy a drink, she actually pulled out a DVD. I think it was Super Bad. Yes, really.

I told her she would have been great on Let's Make A Deal, where Monty Hall would try to stump the audience by asking for odd items. And usually someone had them.

Well, my purse isn't that bad. (I'm actually writing that with a straight face.) But I did find one item of interest while cleaning out a few things today.

Written on the back of my Disney itinerary supplied to us by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society was a list of numbers, along with some barely legible scribbles.

• 777 Porta Potties
• 520 Buses to shuttle runners
• 16,000 runners in the Half Marathon
• 18,000 runners in the Full Marathon
• 3,000 that do both races -- the half on Saturday and the Full on Sunday (yes, you read that correctly)
• 88,000 gallons of water
• 840,000 cups
• $5.6 million raised by the TnT runners for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
• 1,800 Tnt Runners (known as the Purple People by race organizers)
  
• 17,000 sponges
• 900 medical staff
• 5,000 volunteers
  

I made the notes during the TnT Pasta Party at Epcot Center last month. (I guess I'll always have a little bit of reporter in me.)

The Pasta Party was probably one of the most emotional and inspiring parts of the Disney Marathon Weekend. As we turned the corner to make our way to the banquet hall on Friday afternoon before Race Day, the sounds of cheering, horns, whistles and almost every other imaginable noise hit us square in the face.

Volunteers, staff members, coaches, mentors and cancer survivors and formed two lines on either side of us. The sights and sounds were almost overwhelming. Costumes of every color. Signs and noise makers everywhere. They were celebrating the accomplishments of the TnT Disney runners. They were celebrating us.

I'm sure I wasn't the only one holding back tears as these perfect strangers showed their support and appreciation. Suddenly, we realized that we were part of something much bigger.

We weren't just individual runners out to reach a goal. We weren't even the small New Hampshire Disney Team or the regional Massachusetts team. We were part of a special group of people that put their sweat and tears into this challenge. We pushed ourselves physically and mentally. We reached out to friends and family members to help make our fundraising goals.

We helped change lives -- not only our own lives but also those affected by blood cancers.

I don't think I really 'got it' until that very moment when the thousands of runners and families made their way into the hall.

Once inside, we piled our plates with pasta in preparation of our upcoming races. We listened to survivors, participants and others. We celebrated the victories of teams throughout the country.

We, too, celebrated our accomplishments.

When we returned from Disney, we asked Coach Jack and Dave why they didn't tell us what to expect from the Pasta Party. They wanted to leave some surprises, they said. Plus, you can't really describe it and do it justice.

As always, they were right.

The Anti-Disney

Cold, rain and snow. That's what I'll probably remember most about my second half marathon, which I ran yesterday at Hampton Beach.

Generally, a run along the beach would sound like a treat. But when it's February in New Hampshire, a 13-mile run can seem like it goes on forever. And that was certainly the case yesterday.

When I opened my front door to let Rebel out Saturday night, I saw a steady stream of snow coming down. The roads were covered and most certainly un-runnable. Maybe I wouldn't be running, I thought.

But when I woke up Sunday morning, despite the fresh layer of snow and a steady wind, I decided to go for it. It would make for a good experience, would keep my training up and fulfill another race in the series I signed up for earlier this year. (Two down, three to go....The things we do for a jacket!)

The Hampton Half was the Anti-Disney. For starters, there was no build up and well wishes. I only told a few people that I might run it... certainly didn't send out an email to let everyone know I'd be running.

Unlike the night before my Disney run, I didn't lay out my clothes ahead of time. I got a good night's sleep and was surprisingly relaxed.

Then there was the start time -- 11 a.m. -- a far cry from Disney's 6 a.m. start, which required me to wake up at 1:45 a.m. to make the the team meeting, a 3 a.m. bus and the requirement to be at the start area by 4 a.m.

Everything about the Hampton Half was different. The runners there seemed like serious runners. I can't even count the number of marathon jackets and shirts I saw. A 13.1 mile run was just part of the training for these folks. Unlike the Disney runners, they weren't there for the experience. No one carried cameras or wore crazy costumes.

There were few signs and supporters on the sides of the roads. No marching bands, DJs, cheerleaders.

The run was actually kind of lonely. I missed those purple shirts. It may have been the first time that I wanted my iPod with me.

I chatted with a few people that ran my pace along the way. It wasn't like Disney where people on the sidelines kept your attention (and distracted your mind from the fact that you were running so far).

I did my best to keep up with the pacer I selected at the start of the race. I fell back a little at Mile 5, but stayed far enough ahead of the group to avoid the pacer behind me. I shaved 7 minutes off my first half marathon, which I was proud of , especially considering the weather conditions.

Plus, I had done this one on my own. I took what I learned in TnT training and kept it up.

I won't say that the last three miles weren't tough. At several points along the way, I asked myself why I showed up for this race. The snow came down at a good clip in abnormally large flakes -- which somehow kept finding their way to my eyelashes -- somewhere around Mile 7.

Then, as the route made its way along the New Hampshire coast, the rain came. It was a cold, cold rain. My feet were soaked, making me glad that I chose to wear my old sneakers. That coastline route lasted five miles -- five cold, wet miles.

Normally, the beach is one of my favorite places. I love the smell of the salt air, the sand on my feet and the sounds of seagulls, waves and families playing along the water.

But this beach wasn't inviting. I couldn't see the sand from where I was, but I'm sure there was no one sitting on the beach. I saw one surfer -- the one person that might have been crazier than the 800+ people that ventured out for the Hampton Half Marathon.

The ocean had a green hue to it. It churned and crashed against the rocks. I think it was telling us to go home.

I struggled for the last mile. My body told me to stop, but I made myself keep going. The struggle must have been evident to passersby. At one point, an older gentleman dressed head to toe in royal blue spandex, gave me some encouragement.

"C'mon, kid, just another mile," he said, as he jogged past me.

Believe it or not, just those simple words were enough to keep me going. As the obviously seasoned runner kept pace in front of me, I studied his calf muscles, which looked like mangoes stuffed in the legs of his running tights. How many miles has this guy run in his lifetime, I wondered.

I never thought I'd want the legs of a 60-something-year-old man. But, boy, he looked much better in tights than I do. (Yes, these are the things that I think about while running.)

I never knew .1 miles could seem to far, but as I passed the 13-mile mark I couldn't believe the race wasn't over yet. It probably didn't help that my feet were sloshing through puddles, I was freezing and soaked through to my underwear. At points, we were dodging waves that crashed up over the walls of the beach.

Finally, I saw the Finish Line. A few supporters braved the weather and offered some applause as runners made their way across the finish.

It certainly was the Anti-Disney -- no fanfare, huge crowds or perfect Florida weather. Instead of a victory party with thousands of people the next day, a day full of work and meetings is on tap for me.

But, to add another Half Marathon to my list of races (and to get that stupid race series jacket), I'd do it all over again.

It's THIS Sunday?

Last night Jamie and I finally connected, after a few weeks of phone tag and text messages. Did I want to meet her at the gym to run, she asked.

Couldn't because of some scheduling conflicts, I said, but hopefully we'd get to run soon.

Then I asked her if she was ready for Sunday's race -- another half marathon she signed up for a few months ago. I agreed to run it with her.

It's this Sunday?? Apparently Jamie thought we had a few more weeks to train.

The thought of running another half marathon so soon after my Disney run was a little daunting. I hadn't really run much, but seeing the Hampton Half on my calendar made me step up my training a bit in the past week or so. At the TnT Informational Night last week, Dave said I'd probably be fine if I did one long run this weekend.

Thanks to my new favorite website (www.mapmyrun.com), I was able to find a nice 9-mile route around the lake by my house.

It was a relatively nice day for a long run, despite the coating of ice that had been dumped on us the night before. With temps in the 40s, the ice was melting -- making for a messy run through puddles and sand used to coat the roads.

I'd never run that far without the team. Rebel, my four-legged trusty running partner, enjoyed the challenge and completed the whole run. (Congrats to Rebs for running farther than he ever has -- with energy to spare. He slept briefly while I showered, but then was ready to play ball shortly after our run.)

Hearing the words of Dave and Coach Jack, I made sure to eat well and hydrate before the run. I strapped on my fuel belt and put a GU in my pocket. And the 9 miles passed relatively easily.

Yep, I'm ready for Sunday's Hampton Half ... if Jamie is.

The Next Generation

I guess I'm not officially part of the TnT program anymore, meaning I'm not training for a specific event or fundraising for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

But I'm still very much a part of the Tnt program. Or at least I hope to be.

Last night I went to the Informational Night for the next team. There was a small group of runners (perhaps only two right now---anyone interested?) and several people there to sign up for a triathlon. (See, running a half marathon seems pretty sane when compared to some of the other events.)

At one point, a girl in the back row raised her hand and expressed doubts about whether she could actually run a half or full marathon in a few short months. We knew how she felt. Just a few months ago, we were in her shoes, wondering if we could actually complete this challenge.

Dave, Jack, Erin, Kara and I all chimed in. Yes, you can. And we really mean it.

We were there because we truly believe in the program, the training and the people. We know it can change your life. That girl in the back row will find out soon enough.

Worth A Thousand Words

The Disney Half Marathon is behind me. Yep, 13.1 miles done.

It was an awesome experience, one that's difficult to fully explain. As our coach and mentor told us when we returned from Florida, you really can't describe what it's like until you've been there. As always, they were right.

The run was great and my excellent training paid off. But it was about more than just the running. Sure, I ran 13.1 miles -- definitely farther than I ever imagined. But I also met some great friends along the way, developed a passion for running and supported a great cause in the process. We helped save lives.

I posted a few more photos below that I hope will share just a fraction of what the weekend was like. More stories and photos will be posted soon, I promise. Be sure to check back.

For now, please accept my many thanks for your support of this project. With your help, I raised more than $3,700 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Our nationwide team, made up of 1,800 runners, raised $5.3 million!

Yes, $5.3 million. Incredible.

I truly encourage everyone to try something like this. Trust me, you can do it and it will change your life.

I DID IT!

I've been told that I have a knack for capturing a scene or experience and putting it into writing. But I don't think anyone can really share what the Disney Marathon Weekend experience was like.

Over the next several days (or perhaps weeks) I will do my best to share the weekend with you, keeping in mind that I have a job to catch up on, a dog who misses me and a charming friend I'd like to see this week.

For now, I'll just proudly say I FINISHED and had the time of my life doing it.

Stay tuned for more photos and stories from my Disney Marathon Weekend.

3,500 Down, 13.1 To Go

WE DID IT! I've officially surpassed my goal of raising $3,500 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Many, many thanks to everyone who donated generously. I can't say enough about the support I've received.

I wish that everyone who donated could be with me in Disney to see the cancer survivors on the sidelines telling me that what we've done has made a difference in their lives. (Darn it, if only I could find a way to carry a camera to take pictures along the way!)

The fundraising part of this challenge (which was perhaps even more challenging than the actual run) has truly showed me how supportive and open people are. Just ask and people are willing to help support a good cause.

My donations came from friends and family, near and far. Some came from long-time friends and other from people I know just casually on some of the boards I sit on.

I am truly impressed by everyone who was willing to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (and me!) during the past few months. Please know that your money will go to good use -- and your support will never be forgotten!

Thank you again.

(Phew, one thing I won't be thinking about during the 13.1 miles on Saturday...)

REMEMBER, I'M DOING THIS FOR A GOOD CAUSE.
Have you donated to my fundraising campaign for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society? If not, please consider doing so. You can donate online at http://www.active.com/donate/tntma/Teresa. Please pass this link to everyone you know. Every dollar helps me get a little closer to the Disney 13.1!

TO POST A COMMENT, CLICK ON THE "# comments" LINK BELOW

Big Brother Tracking

As I'm running in Disney on Saturday, I'll be crossing over a sensor in the road, which will track my progress through a computer chip that will be attached to my shoe.

Very high tech and slightly Big Brother-esque, huh?

You can sign up with the following link to get my results during the race, sent to email or phone:

http://www.activeresult.com/results/MSG-signup.tcl?sub_event_id=4448

If you're interested, the sign-in will ask you to enter an email and password. You then choose how often you want to receive an alert. You can get an alert when I pass 5K, 10K, 15K and Finish. Or, you can opt to just be notified when I cross the Finish Line.

Keep in mind the race start time is 6 a.m. on a Saturday morning. Hopefully I'll be well into the race while most of you are sitting around the house in your pjs and enjoying a morning cup of coffee.

REMEMBER, I'M DOING THIS FOR A GOOD CAUSE.
Have you donated to my fundraising campaign for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society? If not, please consider doing so. You can donate online at http://www.active.com/donate/tntma/Teresa. Please pass this link to everyone you know. Every dollar helps me get a little closer to the Disney 13.1!

TO POST A COMMENT, CLICK ON THE "# comments" LINK BELOW

The Last Mile

Our team training is official over.

The small team of three ran our final miles together yesterday, enjoying every step of the route.

I had the chance to run and chat with Kara more than I have in previous runs. It was nice to take the scenic route along New Castle Beach, despite the ice and snow.

We made our way along the New Castle Loop and talked about how far we'd come in just a few months. We talked about how Coach Jack and Dave give more support than they probably realize.

We're anxious for this weekend's run -- the Real Thing. I'm filled with excitement, something I rarely admit or show. I really can't wait to get there, to run the 13 miles and to achieve something I never thought possible.

As we stopped at the Old Mobil for a quick water break on Sunday, I realized that this will be the last run as a team. The next time I will see these girls will be our bags will be packed.

"See you at the airport," I told the girls as I turned the corner to make the final mile back to the school.

As much as I enjoyed the first five miles with Kara, it was nice running that last mile by myself.

My running felt better than it had in a while, probably due in part to the warmer weather. I had done six miles without a problem. I ran the last mile faster and stronger than the previous five.

It was a great feeling crossing my imaginary finish line at the school. There was no cheering crowd, no timers, no cameras, no celebration at the end.

It was just me, taking some quiet pride in how far I'd come.

Now I'm ready for the Big Finish at Disney. Bring on the crowds, the celebration -- and the medal.


REMEMBER, I'M DOING THIS FOR A GOOD CAUSE.
Have you donated to my fundraising campaign for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society? If not, please consider doing so. You can donate online at http://www.active.com/donate/tntma/Teresa. Please pass this link to everyone you know. Every dollar helps me get a little closer to the Disney 13.1!

TO POST A COMMENT, CLICK ON THE "# comments" LINK BELOW

I'm Getting Up at What Time??

Below is a recap of the Race Day Itinerary I received via email this morning. Wow, it's going to be an early morning! I think getting on the shuttle by 3 a.m. will be harder than the actual 13-mile run.

HALF MARATHON RACE DAY SCHEDULE

• 2:15 a.m. - Race Day Breakfast - “Half Marathoner” Breakfast
• 3:00 a.m. – Shuttles to Start - All participants using Disney transportation must board the bus by 4:00am.
• 6 a.m. - Half Marathon Start. Runners should plan to arrive at Epcot® by 4:00 a.m. Plan on a 20-minute walk from the start zone to your corral

The Half Marathon Course
The Walt Disney World® Half Marathon will start from Epcot®, then participants will run to the Magic Kingdom® Park, then back to Epcot® for an exhilarating finish.

Time Limit – 3.5 hours VERY IMPORTANT!
There is a 3 1/2 hour time limit for volunteer participants (16-minute mile pace). All runners/walkers need to maintain a 16-minute mile pace throughout the event. The sweeper bus will begin picking up participants as soon as they drop off the 16-minute mile pace. Further, all runners/walkers need to be at the 10K mark by 1 hour and 39 minutes. Those volunteer participants not at these points will be picked up by the sweeper bus and brought to the finish line.

Temperature
Temperatures in Florida will range greatly. Please be prepared for both warm and cold weather. We urge volunteer participants to bring a garbage bag or throwaway clothing with them to the start for warmth.

Medical Information
Medical stations will be located along the course approximately every two miles.

Half Marathon Finish Line
There will be a TNT tent at the finish line. It is imperative that you check in after the race so that we know that everyone has finished the race safely. You will receive your 13.1 pin when you check in.

Finisher’s T-shirts and Medals
All runners and walkers who finish in the allotted time will receive finisher’s medal. All finisher certificates will be mailed in March along with a Marathon Recap.


REMEMBER, I'M DOING THIS FOR A GOOD CAUSE.
Have you donated to my fundraising campaign for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society? If not, please consider doing so. You can donate online at http://www.active.com/donate/tntma/Teresa. Please pass this link to everyone you know. Every dollar helps me get a little closer to the Disney 13.1!