WE DID IT!!!!!!! 10-20-07 and 10-21-07

Mission Accomplished.....thanks to everyone for your support and encouragement. Kelly and I both completed the full marathon in the allotted time and raised over $2500.00 for cancer research. Our event started Saturday night at the Detroit Marriott. We were able to stay in the Central tower of the GM Building on the 33rd floor. Beautiful accommodations and view of the city and course we'd be running (kind of scary). We enjoyed a carb loading pasta dinner and retired to our rooms early knowing we had an early start in the morning (Kelly fought that one!). We woke up at 5AM on Sunday and made our way to the lobby for a 5:45 team picture then walked the mile to the starting line. It was a very exciting experience and we could feel the adrenaline start to flow. By 7:15 the gun sounded and we were off. Kelly managed to run a full 14 miles without stopping (busted ankle and all). She walked portions after that and finished in 5 hours - 40 minutes! So proud of her! I was able to run 20 miles straight without a break, but found myself cramping up and unable to keep my pace. I couldn't believe how many people were on the side of the road massaging muscles after mile 20. We were told it was the infamous mile that brought down many runners. I felt great at 19 and then boom, it hit. I walked a mile or so to stretch out and finished the race about 25min off pace. I finished in 4 hours - 39 min - 42sec. Not bad! We enjoyed a very nice victory dinner (and drinks finally) at Fishbones in Greek town following the race. Our entire team made the run and received medals. Way to go guys!!! Over 16,000 people participated in the marathon. Many tears shed, goals accomplished, dollars raised and awareness obtained. We're glad to have had this experience and are thankful to have friends and family along for the ride! Thanks again to ALL!!!

Till next time, which I'm sure there will be!

Almost There! 10-03-07 through 10-09-07

We are coming down to the final stretch and we've hit the point where we can REALLY decrease our miles and let our bodies heal before the big day. Saturday of this past week I ran 16miles and Kelly ran 10. Both of us needed to take several walk breaks. The humidity was high as well as the temperature causing us to fade pretty quick. Fortunately we finished what we started and enjoyed a relaxing weekend after that. Kelly is starting to get the same discomfort in her opposite ankle (same meaning what she experienced several weeks ago and found out she had a stress fracture). Her ankle has ballooned up again and she found it difficult to run 3 miles today. She is determined to do this, so I think taking it easy the next couple weeks before the race is a good idea. I'm going to do 3-4 miles myself today and just enjoy the time out. No pressure, no stress of finishing at a certain pace. Just going out and enjoying the cool temps and mild weather.

A Week in Review!!! 9-24-07 through 10-02-07

The past week has been pretty hard. I had a major problem with my hip and back, finding it very difficult to stand upright or bend. Not sure from what???? I had taken a few days off from running and woke up in major pain. Needless to say, it took a few more days to get myself back on track.

Unfortunately we missed our 20 mile run with our team. We were pretty upset about that considering it was prepared like an actual marathon with fueling stations and time keepers. We've been running quite a bit this week and plan to replace the upcoming 16mile run with the 20.

This week I was finding it difficult to get my miles, so on Tuesday i set out for an 8 mile run at 11:45PM. Was pretty peaceful! I didn't have to worry about intersections or the heat. Finished at 1:00AM, showered and went straight to bed. Not the best idea, I usually ice or stretch out so I woke up a little tight.

Tuesday night I went out for a quick 6 mile run and completed it with a 9min./3sec. pace. Felt great with no aches or pains (and thankfully my back and hip are back to normal). Well maybe it was the Guinness!

Almost There!!! 09-18-07 through 09-23-07

We're certainly on track and ready for the big day (October 21st), but I'll admit this past week was a bust!!!! After our 18miles we found ourselves quite sore and unmotivated to get in our miles. We took 4 days completely off - go ahead and call the running police! This past weekend we made our way to Dodge Park with the hopes of getting in another 16 miles. After 7 miles we decided to call it a day. Nothing seemed to be going right. Our pacing, breathing, clothes (due to the temperature shifts) and other obstacles just got in the way. We decided to regroup and come back for a 10 mile run the next day. In the mean time we went shopping!!! Kelly and I have been miserable trying to carry our water bottles for extended runs so we picked up a water belt (light weight - carries 40oz.). I also picked up a couple knee straps. Around mile 3 the tendons running along side my knees have been causing serious discomfort. I decided to give the braces a try. We also picked up some odd and end things to help prepare for the big day (like body lube - don't ask!!!!). It turns out we had a great 10mile run and Kelly was able to complete the loop with a 10min. 20sec. pace. Here is our next plan. The long runs are killing our bodies, so we're going to take the intensity down after this week. Kelly and I agreed to keep the miles short (3-5 tops) Monday through Thursday. Friday night we are going to try a 24mile run (our house to Metro Beach). That will be our last BIG run before the 26.2 marathon. We'll be conditioned enough to lower the miles from then till the race. I know we'll need the time to rest and heal. We'll keep you posted on how the week goes!

DAY OFF!!! 09-17-07

After the 18mile run we were ready for a day off. Knees, ankles, hips, etc... all a little sore. Did some weight training at the gym, but no running.

WE DID IT!!! 09-16-07

Kelly and I were able to finish the 18 miles today. I'm not giving a lot of details, to be honest I'm too tired right now. We started at 7:30 AM (Dodge Circus Park) and finished in daylight (that's all that mattered). We actually had a very good pace going. We stayed together the whole time and only took a few short walk breaks. Started with a 100 layers of clothing (it was 43 degrees at 7:30 AM), and quickly needed to strip. When we got home I popped a few Motrin and took a 20min. ice bath. Not the most pleasant thing in the world, but my knees and ankles do feel better after. Off to a B-Day party and then the Lion's game. We'll sleep good tonight!!!

Another pat on the back to Kelly!!! Off 5 weeks with leg injuries and today pushed herself to finish a strong 18 miles. She said she completed it in the same amount of time she completed 16 miles the week before. You're Awesome Babe!!!

2 DAYS OFF!!! 09-14-07 & 09-15-07

Rest Days. Saving energy for Sunday's 18 mile run!

Circus Act!!! 09-13-07

Had the day off today (Happy Rosh Hashana)!!! Kelly and I decided to go up to Dodge Park and run together since the kids were at school. Dodge, unlike Stoney Creek which is wide open, has narrow paths tucked away in the woods. I get a little nervous over Kelly running there alone. Today was a circus act!!! We saw questionable people emerging from the woods where there were clearly no paths, older couples walking in snow-suits, dog walkers wearing netted bee masks and experienced first hand sound effects from the Texas Chainsaw Massacre... (a grinding chainsaw rumbling somewhere behind us in the woods). YES THIS IS ALL TRUE!!!! It did make us run faster!!! We were scheduled for 6 miles and ran 7.2. Not sure about the time, we were happy just to make it out alive!!!

5 Mile Crash and Burn!!! 09-12-07

I really need to learn from my mistakes!!! Yesterday I ran after Coney Island, today I tried a night time run after eating a Reuben (it was very good by the way!). Not that this sounds logical, but I told myself if I could do it yesterday today wouldn't be a problem. IT WAS!!! Around mile 2 I started to crash. Decided to complete a few miles and just walk the rest. The last couple nights have been great to walk or run in. The cool weather makes it much more enjoyable. Hope it's like this on race day (October 21st).

Note to Self...... running good........running on a full stomach, bad!!!!!

Coney Island and an 8 Mile Run! 09-11-07

The marathon is just around the corner. At this point, it's hard to skip days and tell myself there's always tomorrow (and I've done that quite a bit)! This week we were scheduled to run 16 Sat, 4 Sun, Break Mon, 8 Tues, 5 Wed, 6 Thurs and off Fri. I was really dreading today's run, and when my family decided to meet up at Coney Island it was the perfect escape! OK, I started to feel guilty and decided I try a few miles when I got home. I ended up completing 8.2 miles in 1hr / 20min (9.7 min pace). Not my best time, but hey "I was burping chili fries!!!"

Day Off - 9-10-07

Day Off - "Thank God"

ICE BATH!!!!! 9-9-07

OK, the day after the 16 mile run is proving to be quite painful. I knew I had to get up somewhat early and get a quick run in today. We were scheduled to do 4 miles. I took my time and completed it in 37min. Just wanted to stretch out. Considering I was in pain from hips to toes I decided to take the infamous "ICE BATH" some of our teammates have been talking about. They are supposed to do wonders, I'm here to tell you they did nothing more than bring about a few choice words!!!

Kelly had a day off from running today.

16 MILES!!!!! Sept. 8th

We did it!!!!! Not sure how, but Kelly and I both completed our Saturday 16 mile run. We wanted to get an early start so we didn't have to deal with the heat and humidity. We left for Stoney Creek at 6AM and started our run at 6:30AM. The picture added to this Blog says it all... the moon and stars were our only guiding lights (almost ran into the lake). We thought we'd be the only psychos out there running that early, but it turned out to be pretty busy. My goal today was to complete the run without stopping. Mission accomplished...I kept my iPod on shuffle and a bottle of Gatorade in my hand. Mile 14 I started to feel some serious pain in my knees. I worked through it and finally approached my final mile. A buddy of mine was entering mile 10 at the same time. The taunts were expected as he passed me (something about catching the rabbit). Something within me couldn't let him speed ahead. We were both in a sprint by the end of the run. I finished the final mile in under 8min., but I think I lost a lung in the process. Thanks DAN for the extra push.....and the turtle DID catch and pass the rabbit!!!

Final stats: start 6:32AM end 9:05AM......9.5min. pace

Kelly is right back on track. She completed all 16miles with some walk breaks in the middle and at the end. Thankfully her leg and ankle were feeling good after the run...well as good as they could be!!!

Going To Try 16!!!!! Aug 27th - Sept 4th

Our vacation up north was fun, but it rained 5 out of the 7 days!!! We did get in some good running miles though. In 4 days I logged in 20miles, but fell apart when we got home. This past week has been a disaster. I missed my 12 mile run on Saturday (Kelly was able to do hers) and with school starting back up I missed almost a whole week of training. I'm heading out tonight to get in 6 to 7 miles. I know I'm conditioned at this point to pick it back up, but I still feel like crap for not keeping up with the schedule. I can't change the past so why dwell there. Starting fresh today knowing that this Saturday we need to run 16 miles. Kelly is doing great!!! She made a great come-back from her injury and is certainly going to take part in the full marathon. As always I'm very proud of her strength, effort and determination to finish what she started!

Aug 17th - 26th: Training Up North

Today was a day off, but it felt like we did more running around then ever packing for our Higgins Lake trip. We will be training up north with friends/teammates while enjoying the time with our little ones. Tomorrow we will attempt 14miles at Stoney Creek, then make the long haul up state. Hopefully the laid-back attitude won't keep us from doing some running, then again - we would welcome some end of the summer butt lounging!!! Updates will be coming upon our return.

All the Best,
Randy and Kelly

Aug 16th - Starting Fresh!!!

We have been so behind on our blog updates I'm not sure where to start. Maybe starting fresh is the best! It seems like that's what's happening with Kelly. Several weeks ago she needed to cease training due to several problems with her one leg - a stress fracture causing most of her pain. It took a week to see a doctor, a week to schedule an MRI, and a week to get the results!!! Add in the 2 weeks it took her to actually go and see a doctor in the first place and she was out of commission for about a month. I'm happy to report she is back at it and planning on joining the race in October. She has been averaging a little over a 11min. mile and boosted her runs to 10miles (with 1 very brief water break). This week she is scheduled to tackle 14 miles!!! I'm very proud of her determination and desire to participate!!! She's Awesome!!!

I have been keeping up with my miles, but will admit that I've walked out the door several times this summer - felt the heat - said "Yea Right" - and made a sandwich!!! LOL. Not too long ago I was battling shin splints. Our friend/teammate Tammy suggested a web page that offered some tips on healing the area. I followed them, and after a week was running with no pain what-so-ever. That was several weeks ago, and I'm still running pain-free even with the increased mileage. Last night was my best run to date. I ran 6miles around the neighborhood with a low 8min pace. At mile 3 I felt really good and decided to sprint for as long as I could. Mile 3 turned out to be a 6min/53sec. mile!!!! (or so the two short songs I listened to on my iPod indicated). I got home and didn't feel the slightest bit of fatigue. I couldn't believe my heart rate was low, breathing was normal and I could have easily kept going! In no way-shape-or form am I bragging about this, I just honestly never thought I could do something like this in my mid 30's. Feels great! I'll be attempting 14 miles this Saturday as well. My goal is to keep a 9.5 pace per mile. The 6,7 or 8 min. miles are fun for short runs, but I could never keep that pace for 26.2 miles.

We'll keep you posted!

July 23rd - 31st: Where Does The Time Go???

Seems like the weeks are flying by really quick! I've been able to stay on schedule and meet the required miles. I'm averaging about 30 miles per week. The Saturday runs are the most difficult and require the most discipline. Kelly and I enjoy our Friday nights alone (many thanks to my mom & gram for watching them so often!!!). It can make for an interesting 10/12mile run early early Saturday morning when we stay out late on Friday. Wouldn't change it for the world though! I'm slowing my pace to endure longer runs now. I'm trying to keep a 9 to 9 1/2min. pace for the race. My goal is to finish the 26.2 miles in under 5 hours in October. I'm on pace now for just over 4 hours, but let's be real - I've only extended it to 12 miles max. Knees, ankles, calves all feel good, and the extra running is giving me a very good excuse to PIG OUT!!!!

- Randy

Goal Reached!!!

Many thanks to our friends and family for supporting us on this adventure. Your generous donations have kept us motivated and are certainly going to a very deserving cause.

Two of our very close friends (Dan and Tammy Hopgood) are also taking part in this race. Tammy is on the running team and will be participating in October, Dan is part of the MUCH NEEDED support team! They decided to match incoming funds for Tammy's run, and help our teammates reach their financial goals. Today, they helped us meet our goal with a sizable donation. Many thanks to ALL of you for your support. We are very appreciative of everyones generosity!!! Thank you for supporting those facing cancer (current and past), much needed research, Octobers marathon, and us!!!

- Randy and Kelly

July 17th - 22nd: A Week in Review

This past week flew by quickly. Found it difficult to add to the updates on this blog, but did get in the required miles! The 17th - 20th I ran 5miles each day and kept a decent 8/45 to 9min. pace. On Saturday the 21st I ran 10 miles at Stoney Creek with my team. Our closing mile was the fastest at 8min./17sec. We averaged under 9min. for the entire 10 miles. This run felt very good. It was a cool morning, overcast and minimal bugs (those of you that have been to Stoney know what I'm talking about). After the run we left for Sarnia and partied at BayFest. I'm happy to say I was still standing at the end of the night (well, leaning a little!!!). Sunday the 22nd was a much needed day off.

- Randy

July 15th and 16th - Fun Run

On July 15th I went out for a relaxing run. Didn't worry about pace, time, miles...whatever! Just went out and ran through the neighborhood. I was probably gone about 45min. - 1hour. It's so easy to get caught up in the miles and timing. Some days it takes the fun right out of it. I know that we need to reach certain destinations in a certain amount of time for the marathon. Understanding my pace is critical. Today I kept it out of my head and just enjoyed the songs on my IPod.

July 16th - Rest Day

- Randy

July 14th - 12, 13, or 14 miles???

Went to Dodge Park to get in my longer Saturday run. I was supposed to run 12 miles today. This was my first time at Dodge Park and they have a crazy mile marker system that I couldn't figure out. Every few minutes I'd pass a marker that read 1mile. I decided to just go off of time. I ran for 55min. (which was one complete loop from the starting point to a side trail that ends at VanDyke and Hall Rd. I asked a few people about the distance. One thought it was 6miles, another 6.5, and yet another 7 miles. Whatever... I took a quick water break and ran it again. Like the title above indicates - 12, 13 or 14miles (not sure)??? I did complete both runs in 55min. though, so I kept a good pace for 1hour/50min. and felt great at the end. Legs were tight, but I could have kept going.

- Randy

July 12th & 13th - Thank You Tammy!

July 12th - Our good friend Tammy found an article related to shin splints. In short it suggested rest, compression, ice and elevation. Gee..as difficult as that sounds I guess I'll have to push myself to try! (The sign I'm holding reads "Per Tammy's Orders!") I tried it Wednesday night and had a great run Thursday. 5 miles in the same time frame (just under 44min.) minimal pain. OK Dr. Tammy, do you have suggestions for a dog that pees all over the house or kids that fight non-stop???

July 13th - Day Off. Probably a good thing being Friday the 13th and all!!!!

- Randy

July 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th - OUCH! Shin Splints

The 8th was scheduled for a run, but I switched it with the 9th's day off because of some sharp pains that have been building in my one leg after the longer Saturday runs. I've started to develop some pretty strong pains in my left leg. Shin splints I believe. I tried to change it up a bit, instead of running on the pavement (which is much harder on my legs) I went to the gym to get in some runs on the treadmill. On the 9th and 10th I ran 4miles at a 9min pace. Today, I ran outside, around the neighborhood, for 5miles in 43min/44sec. The average pace was just a little over 8.5min. per mile. Seems like I do better outside in the fresh air rather than inside next to someone that smells like Coney Island...Go Figure?!? If anyone has a good suggestion on how to ease the pain of shin splints please let me know...I'm known to try just about anything. Jack Daniels worked, but only for a couple hours!

- Randy

July 7th - A Salty 10 Miles

Today we started our run at 7:30AM. Thankfully it was only 66 degrees when we started. It was close to 90 degrees when we finished. I ran with a teammate today that really pushed me along. I probably would have taken an extra walk break if I wasn't running with someone. Today the course only had one fueling station around mile 5. I finished the run in 1hr/20min. At one point (mile 6) we averaged an 8min/15sec. mile. The run felt good, but I'll admit I was exhausted when I was done. Noticed my body was covered in salt when I was done. Never experienced that before, I looked like a bag of McDonald's french-fries! LOL. Speaking of McDonald's - to celebrate a good run we stopped for Sausage McMuffins on the way home!!!

July 5th and 6th:

I needed to take a couple days off. One of them was supposed to be a break day anyway, but my knees and shins were stressed and I wanted to rest for Saturday's 10 mile run. Did get in some weight training though. I've been trying to get in 3 - one hour work-outs a week. Now that I've been running outside the treadmill runs at the gym just won't cut it.

- Randy

July 3rd and 4th

July 3rd: 5miles / 46min.
July 4th: 3miles / Didn't keep time - just enjoyed the run.

- Randy

July 3rd - Dedication to Carol Curry

Today's blog is dedicated to Carol Curry. We received a call today that she passed away. Friends and family were at her side. Carol leaves us as her grandchild (Andrew Sheldon Curry) enters the world. My sister-in-law said it best, "My mom and nephew passed each other on the way to and from heaven!" Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!!!

- Randy

July 2nd - Day Off

Called and made an appointment for my stubborn wife to see a doctor. Her knee is feeling much better, but her ankle is still messed up. Can't get her in till next week so she'll have to rest it till then. Today was a day off for me.

July 1st - Asking For HELP!!!!

As mentioned before, Kelly and I are going through this process with several friends (not sure how we'd do it without them!). Now that we are approaching the half way mark with our miles, physical and emotional obstacles are starting to surface. Some are noticing a weakening of the immune system causing constant fatigue, others are finding themselves battling the aches and pains of pulled muscles or stressed knees. And still others are feeling overwhelmed by the weekly increase in miles (how will I ever do more???). Like I said, physically and emotionally our team is desperate need of support!!!!

Here is what I'm asking you to do.................If you get a free moment -PLEASE- send a word of encouragement to this blog post. I'll be sure to pass them on to my team. Yesterday, some words of encouragement were shared before our 10 mile run. It DID make a difference!!! Our honored heroes and this cause are making us achieve goals we never imagined, your words of encouragement will motivate the team to keep moving forward. Without any doubt, the individuals facing cancer first hand are suffering in far greater ways than this team. That reality is never forgotten!

Startling Fact: It was shared before the run at Stoney that every 5min. in the world somebody is diagnosed with some form of blood cancer. Every 9min. somebody loses their battle. Knowing how many lives were effected by cancer during my runs yesterday and today is mind blowing.

Today's Run - 3 miles / 24min/57sec

- Randy

June 30 - 10miles

Today our group met for a 10 mile run at Stoney Creek. I've teamed up with a couple people that really push me to the limit. Finished in 1hr/30min - finished strong. As always the first couple miles are the hardest and then I start to fall into a groove. I'm learning some life lessons as I go through this process - STAY POSITIVE! Bad days, like yesterday, should never get me down. Dwelling on it can only set me back. Yesterdays frustration turned into today's triumph. I shed the iPod today and talked with some friends the entire run. Made the 10 miles go by MUCH quicker.

Notice Kelly's shoes are off in the pic. She rubbed the back of her foot raw! OUCH! "No pain, no gain," I guess.

- Randy

June 29th - Doing Good - Doing Good - CRASH!

Today I left the house early for a 5 mile run. Felt great, at one point I thought my legs were moving on their own! After about 2miles the infamous BEAR jumped on my back. Wanted to take a shortcut home....BAD! Decided to take a few walking breaks instead. Finished the run in 44min.

- Randy

June 28th Prayers needed!!!!!

Anyone who sees us day to day knows how much pain I have been in this week. I started hurting a bit last Thursday but ran through it successfully. So I thought. We went up north for the weekend and planned on running our scheduled 8 miles on Saturday. The roads were hilly and very scary. I found out quickly that I don't like running on roads so much where the cars are coming at you 70 mph. Not my thing at all. Stoney Creek or our subdivision suits me just fine. Anyway I ran 4 miles without too much of a problem, although I was quite a few minutes behind my normal time. At our turn around to head back to the cottage for the last 4 I stopped to stretch a bit. When I started up again I don't think I even got a mile and I had to stop. I basically crawled the rest of the way. My left ankle (on the inside) and my right knee have been @#$% ever since!!!! I haven't ran since Saturday and it's been very depressing. I have been icing and resting, bought new shoes and nothing seems to be helping. Standing for hours at work doesn't help. I went out this morning to test the waters and I barely walked a mile. Of course, had a quick little meltdown when I got home. Hopefully I will heal up soon and this will be my only set back for the rest of training. Anyone who may be reading this please say a prayer for me!!!! I'm dying to get out there and run. I've really come to enjoy running and I miss it!


~Kelly~

June 26th - 10:00 and Peacful

Waited for the day to settle down and left the house around 10:00PM. I ran for 5 miles and kept my pace around 8min/30sec. This was an interesting run considering we had pizza and lasagna for dinner at 8. Hmmmmm, not a good decision!!! The 5 mile and under runs are getting much easier. I can actually walk instead of crawl up the driveway when I'm done.

Our Honored Heroes and several other friends or relatives are really pushing us along. It's amazing how many people we know that have (or know someone who has) a form of blood cancer. Hopefully a cure is not that far around the corner!!!

Our Prayers and Support to All!
- Randy

June 22nd through 25th - Up North

This weekend we went up north with some good friends to enjoy some time alone (no kids!). Considering Saturday's are normally our longer runs, we needed to find time to get in some miles. The road leading to the house we were staying at was a hilly 4.3 mile track. Very scary because there was only a small shoulder and cars traveled around 60 - 70 mph. On Saturday I ran about 9.2 miles in 1hr/34min (the hills kicked my butt). Sunday I completed the 4mile track in about 33min. That was a new achievement for me, my mile pace was 8min/17sec. Today (the 25th) is a day off, so running will continue tomorrow. The biggest challenge up north was running past the Amish bakery that sells mouth watering cinnamon rolls and brownies. We caved obviously!!! Hey, we ran while on vacation so treating ourselves to it was a given - well that and a jar of candy bars!!!

- Randy

June 20/21 - New Shoes

June 20- Weight training at the gym. Need to build up these bird legs!!! LOL.

- Randy

June 21- When you hear how important a runners shoes are. They aren't kidding!!! I'm struggling this week with my left foot, and now my ankle also. We are leaving for the weekend and are suppose to run 8 up north on Saturday. Yikes. When I get past my 4.5 mile mark or so my toes on my left foot start tingling like I have frost bite. Hmmmm.........think I need to go shopping QUICK!!! I bought my shoes a 1/2 size bigger than normal but I guess it wasn't enough. As I write this I'm waiting for Randy to get home from his run so I can go out. I think I'm only going to do 3 this morning just to get out there, and help warm up for Saturday's 8. Then I think it's off to Hanson's Running Shop for me today.

P.S. I actually did my 5 miles today!!! Woo hoo!!!! My foot didn't hurt until I was almost home. LOL. Oh well new shoes soon!!!!

~Kelly~

6:30AM - Morning runs are hard to get up for, but well worth it after (meaning I'm done running for the day!!!). Completed 6.8 miles in just under 50min. During the first mile of my run I received a nice wake up - sprinklers at a condo complex turned on while I was passing and zeroed in on the side of my head. At least it looked to others like I had a good sweat going!!!

- Randy

June 19th - Early Run

Left the house early this morning for a 5 mile run. Felt really good - quick pace, no discomfort, had a lot of energy. I find it much easier to run first thing in the morning instead of later in the evening after a full day of activities. I completed the run in about 43min. It was raining, which I love, but today was quite humid. Glad I didn't wait till the afternoon when the temp increased! A quote was sent to me from one of our trainers. I've copied it below. It's from an 89 year old lady battling cancer. Made me think twice about the meaningful and meaningless things in my life. Enjoy!!!

“If I had my life to live over again, I’d try to make more mistakes next time. I would relax. I’d be sillier than I have been on this trip. I would climb more mountains, swim more rivers and watch more sunsets. I would have more actual troubles and less imaginary ones. Oh, I’ve had my moments, and If I had to do it over again, I’d have more of them. In fact, I’d try to have nothing else, just moments, one after another… I would pick more daisies.” - Nadine Stair (at age 89)

- Randy

June 18th - Day Off

After a long run yesterday, I gave myself a days rest from running. Went to the gym instead for some weight training.

- Randy

June 17th - Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day to all the dad's out there. Today I got up early to golf, played with the kids all afternoon, and completed the evening with a 9.5 mile run. Long distance runs in the neighborhood are difficult. Stop lights at intersections are interfering with pace, making it difficult to get a good rhythm going. Finished in 1hr/34min, so I was able to stay under a 10min. pace with stops at several lights. Feeling much better, maybe the flu bug has finally left our house for the summer!!!!!

- Randy

June 16th - Stoney Creek

Randy was sick and stayed home today. I met up with the team and completed 6miles in just over an hour.

- Kelly

June 15th - Crash and Burn

Last day of school today - I started my summer vacation. I walked in the door from work and crashed on my bed. Really feeling weak. I'm one of those stubborn individuals that won't see a doctor. I might need to this time. The bug hit me hard during the night and into Saturday morning. Couldn't meet with the team at Stoney. I'll change my longer run to Monday, and pick up my miles during next week to make up for the down time.

- Randy

June 14th - Need to Run

Still feeling off, but need to get a longer run in. I completed a 6 mile run in about an hour. My pace was off a little. Really started to think about our honored heroes during this run. My sister-in-laws mother has been in and out of the hospital. Can't begin to imagine the struggles she's going through right now. That reality makes a difficult run much easier. We don't have the power to change what's happening, but we can support these individuals through our training.

- Randy

June 12th & 13th - What's Happening???

The flu bug is not leaving our house!!! I was able to do a couple short runs, but nothing too strenuous. Just enough to keep up my miles and prepare for the longer Saturday run. Body is just not feeling right this week! Not sure what's going on.

- Randy

June 11th - Day Off

No running today - just some nice relaxing pool time with the kids (if you call that relaxing).

- Randy

June 10th - Oh The Pain!!!

Yesterday's run was great, and it felt good to make progress with an increase in miles. Today however I was in major pain!!! LOL. My hamstrings felt like stretched rubber bands ready to snap. When I got home from work I stretched and tried a short run. I must have looked like a wounded duck. Oh well, 3.8 miles in about 30 min.

- Randy

June 9th - New Mile Stone

Felt good today - needed the day off yesterday. I teamed up with about five runners for what started out to be 6miles. Half way through we stopped at a water station and all decided to push our miles to 9. Glad I had others to run with on this one. I finished the 9 miles in 1hr./24min. Excluding the two water stops I averaged an 8min./50sec. mile. That's certainly a new mile stone for me. This was the first time I walked away from a run feeling like I could actually complete the marathon. Many thanks to those pushing me along!!!

- Randy

June 8th - My Turn!

Kelly and the kids were sick this past week. I came home from work today and crashed. The bug finally caught up with me. I should have gone for a short run today, but decided to rest and hopefully make my long run at Stoney Creek tomorrow.

- Randy

June 7th - Gale Force Winds

For a Long-Day run I completed 6.3 miles in the neighborhood. I finished in just over 1 hour. That's about 12min. longer than the last time. Of course I feel the need to explain!!! As I stepped out my front door my hat flew off and sailed about 2 houses down. Not sure where the wind came from, but I felt like I was running in place for the first 3.5 miles. On the plus side, the last few miles the wind was at my back! Felt good, but I passed a guy on his way home from a party store with a six-pack of Bud! That was just plain cruel!

- Randy

June 6th - Feeling Great!

Well thank God all is back to normal at our house. Everyone got sick except for Randy and if he is lucky it has bi passed him. My running schedule was all messed up last week with the flu bug so I was actually able to make it to the Warren Center and run 4.5 miles on the treadmill today. I watched the older folks walk the lazy river through the giant windows overlooking the pool area while they chased and squirted eachother with water pistols. YES!!!! This is a planned activity for them. It is the cutest sight EVER. This makes me laugh so hard I try not to fall off the treadmill. Today I had Kid Rock on in my IPOD and just let me tell you.........If you don't have the Live Trucker cd you really don't know what you are missing. I love the Cowboy song it makes me want move. So I'll leave you with a few words from the Kid "Keep on truckin' till it falls in the ocean"

~Kelly~

Day off for me....Let's see "King of Queens" or "Everybody Loves Raymond"?

- Randy

June 5th - Addicted

OK....I'm officially addicted! The day was getting away from us today, but I still wanted to get in a run. We were leaving a store in the neighborhood around 8:30 tonight and I told Kelly I'd run home. 2.8 miles and a little insanity!

- Randy

June 4th - Rain Drops Keep Falling...

I know I said I like running in the rain, but it seems like every time I get a chance to run it pours. 2.3 miles in about 22min. Nice and cool outside. Took it slow and easy tonight - enjoyed some tunes on my iPod!

- Randy

June 3rd - Feeling Better

Needed to make up for the couple days off. I knew last night I was going to get in a morning run, I didn't expect to look out the window and see rain! Believe it or not I was happy. I get in my best runs on rain days. Today I pushed it to 6.3 miles. The 2 days rest was good for me. I finished in 48min/17sec (no walk breaks today). I could have kept going. I learned a new lesson today: "People late for Sunday church will drive over you in a heart-beat if you're battling to see who has the right of way!" AMEN BROTHER!

- Randy

June 3rd - Wasted Day.........or was it?

This has been a really rough week for me to try to get in all my runs. On Thursday I was dressed and ready to run after I dropped Ally off at school. What do ya know.......she ended up with the stomach flu. Kids are so funny, they sure bounce back quickly. I did end up running late that night after both kids finally got to bed. Randy and I took turns. Running at night is peaceful, maybe a little dangerous, but hey, oh well.......try and catch me. LOL. So as Randy stated in his previous post, we really enjoyed our Friday off. We enjoyed a nice dinner and a movie night. Then Bam!!!!!! Guess who gets the stomach flu........me. I always seem to escape any of the bugs the kids try and pass on, but not this time. We missed our weekly Saturday Team in Training run at Stoney Creek, which I am very sad about. It feels so wonderful to train with other people. It motivates you, keeps you moving, especially when people are passing you. As I lay around the house today feeling yucky, and missing the team run, I couldn't help but think how tomorrow will be another day for me. I (hopefully) will wake up feeling much better, able to get in a run. Most importantly it made me realize how my one day struggle with the flu is so completely minuscule compared to what our honorary hero's faced in the past and and today, the present. It will help me get out of bed tomorrow morning with a smile on my face and keep running!!!!!

~Kelly~

Not feeling as bad as Kelly, but not up to a run. We're both giving our bodies a day to re-coop!

- Randy

June 1st - Day Off

We are scheduled for a day off right before our longer Saturday runs. Tomorrow we will increase our runs to 5.5miles. I'm not one to argue, so if the training book says take the day off then call me "Mr. Couch Potato!"

- Randy

May 31 - Night Vision

Went out for a night run after the crazy day settled down. I'm finding myself enjoying the peace that comes with each run. They are real stress relievers. Today was a LOW DAY, so I completed a shortened 3.8 mile run in about 25min. Energy was up, especially after being chased by an EVIL PUG!!!

- Randy

May 30 - Back to Basics

OK.....time to get away from the picnic food and get back to training! Went out for a 5 mile run today and felt pretty heavy (like I was carrying a 100lbs. of hot dogs and hamburgers) LOL! Oh well, I finished the run in one piece. Today's run 40min. 34sec.

- Randy

May 29 Memorial Weekend

Day off..... spent time visiting family at a camp ground in Davidson. We certainly got in high levels of exercise playing with the kids (putt-putt, swimming, playground). I think running is much easier!!! LOL

- Randy

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday weekend. We certainly did. I got a run in on each day except for the holiday itself. This morning I was up bright and early, feeling pretty energetic. After dropping Allyson off at school I hit the gym. To my surprise my body felt like it should the morning after a holiday. I was TIRED. I think I had one to many Italian sausages and hamburgers this weekend, and well, let's not forget the pizza and Dairy Queen on Saturday night. Whew!!!! I need to acquire runner's eating habits along with the actual running. Oh well........ gotta keep running.........and it feels so good after I push myself to go!!!!!!!

~Kelly~

May 28th - Walk Breaks

Went out for another 5mile run this morning because I wanted to see what my time would be like if I took quick and short walk break every mile. My time for a full run yesterday was 39sec./49sec. Today I finished the same route in 41min./49sec. YES!!!!! I fished with much more energy and only increase my pace by 2 minutes. No aches or pains today. Could have run another few miles today, but let's be real........I wasn't going to!!!!!

- Randy

May 27th - VICTORY!!!

Kelly and I decided to get up early and take turns getting in a long run around the neighborhood. I was able to get in a 5mile run in 39min/49sec. Notice I didn't say 40min. - nor will I! LOL. Around the 2nd mile I REALLY wanted to give up, wanted to walk the rest of the way. Kept thinking about those people that are enduring MUCH harder difficulties with cancer; my sister-in-laws mother and a former student of mine immediately came to mind. I also thought about the struggles my dad went through many years ago, how he must have felt trying to overcome this disease. It certainly helped me get through the run, but as you can see I literally collapsed when I got home!!!!!

- Randy

May 25th / 26th - Running in the Rain

May 26th: The predicted forecast for today's weather was rain......'What do you know they were finally right!!!!!" The strange thing is, I love running in the rain. We met up with some members of our team (our good friends) and set out for a 4 mile run at Stoney Creek. It's so much nicer running outside and taking in the scenery instead of going to the gym and feeling brain-dead on the hamster wheel. 4miles in under 40min. No aches no pains......just wet feet!

- Randy

May 25th - Day Off.

May 24th - Up to 4

Our training coach said carbs were needed for energy - not sure she had Tim Hortons Tim Bits in mind! Worked out at the gym today after work. Today was in the upper 80's, running in the air-conditioned gym was much nicer. I boosted my miles to 4.1 and completed the run in about 45min. I'm starting to really slow down my pace now as I increase the miles. My back was feeling much better, but my legs were on FIRE! I think I'm just getting old?!

- Randy

May 23rd - Day Off

Day Off......YES!!!!!

May 22nd - Outside Run

Today was a busy day so I held off running till about 9:30 at night. It turned out to be a good run, was tired at first but felt energized afterwards! I ran 3.6 miles in 36min. My pace seems to be about a 10min. average. At around 3.5 miles I was thinking about having a very cold beer!

- Randy

May 21st - Gym

Tried to get in weight training and a quick 1 mile run (it was supposed to be a day off). I ran a slow 10min. pace today. My back was still hurting, but someone younger was running next to me (and faster) so I had to keep going! LOL

- Randy

May 20th - Outside Run

Ran around the neighborhood today. Bumped my miles to 3.6. Today felt good (the first mile was rough). At the end of my run it felt like I could keep going.......I HAD NO DESIRE!!!! About a 40min. run today. Back hurt a little.

- Randy

May 19th - First Team Run

Today Kelly and I met up with the team at Stoney Creek Park. It was the first time we ran together, my first time running with a group. It was invigorating! Running together as a team pushed me along and made the run much easier. It was also nice to know several of our closest friends were there as well. I learned today I need to slow it down though or I'll burn out early in the marathon. The thrill at the end was seeing all the bagels the coaches brought for after the run! 3 miles today at around 30min. It's much different running outdoors!

- Randy

May 18th - Stretch and Rest

Day off today, and I took advantage......maybe a little too much (White Castle was calling my name!!!!)

- Randy

May 17th - Gym

Didn't want to run today but talked myself into it. iPods are a God-send!!! Without the sounds of Def Leppard today it would have been a NO-GO! 3 miles today at 28min......and NO, I didn't fall off the machine. LOL

- Randy

May 16th - Free Fall

Today was pretty funny!!!! Went to the gym and decided to up my miles to 3. Was feeling really good at the 2.5 mark. Must have gotten into my run a little too much because my foot came off the treadmill and stepped on the (non-moving) side step! YES.....I flew forward and almost head-butted the machine. Fortunately nobody saw me.....I don't think? Finished the 3 miles though in 30min.

- Randy

May 15th - Training Starts

Today I ran around the neighborhood. It was a heavy rain-storm!!!! I figured when the day of the race comes we run rain or shine, so why not? I used to shake my head at those people when I drove by......I'm officially one of the crazy people now! I got in 2.4 mile in around 25min. No aches or pains afterwards.

- Randy

May 14th - Signing up with TNT

It wasn't real until I signed on the dotted line, then I knew I had to get my butt in shape. The kick off meeting was at Troy Athens High School. We decided to take part in the Detroit Free Press Marathon. We will be running through downtown Detroit, across the Ambassador Bridge, and through the U.S./Canadian tunnel. Last week I ran a mile every other day to start my training (and it almost killed me), how will I complete 26 miles??? God help me!!!!

-Randy