Where has the week gone?

So training began with the team less than 2 weeks ago. It's been so great getting to know my fellow teammates. We all have a story, and I really enjoy spending time with different runners to learn more about them. When we're out on run, we don't talk much about running, but when we're not running, we tend to talk about running; it's just the way it goes. I was out of town for last week's run, but I still got in my mileage. I grabbed my family and took them out, and we all had a run around the neighborhood. It wasn't a casual Saturday stroll either. We worked, and we got it done! Love my family, and they are my biggest supporters! Earlier this week, we had a shoe clinic and learned all about the mechanics of a shoe. I had NO idea that shoes were build so differently. I know more about my foot now, and I'll be purchasing a new pair of kicks in the next month to prepare for my big run. Track Shack was really good to us with great instruction and of course, testing out the shoes and helping with other purchases. Getting started can be overwhelming, and their team is always so gracious. I'll be continuing the journey over the next week with more training, and I hope you join me. See you on the trail!

Training Begins

This morning our team held its first training. Not a huge distance, which is to be expected that we would start of low and get a feel for the road and each other. Lots of basics on gear, gu, and more. I met some wonderful team members, who are going to be amazing this season and have such touching stories to share. After a 3 mile jaunt, a small group of us enjoyed bagels and chocolate milk at Panera to do a fundraising clinic. We worked on letters, websites and developing a plan. We have big goals in fundraising for the American Cancer Society. What a great first training day!

DetermiNation Kicks Off

Tonight was the kickoff meeting for the inaugural Orlando American Cancer Society DetermiNation team. It was great. We played games, talked about training and possible fundraisers, had raffles and gift bags. The weather was poor, so many people were unable to attend (it looked like a hurricane outside), but we had the faithful troopers who came out and are ready to kick butt this season. It's going to be a high energy season. I can't wait for Saturday's first run!

To Begin Anew

A new day has come. Over the last couple of months, I have become connected to the American Cancer Society. I was drawn to it after wanting to expand my career experience in sports and even more so, because friends close to me have been deeply affected by different types of cancer. I am determined to make a difference and focus on healing and creating a better life. Join me on the journey as I train for this 13.1 mile journey.

The Passing

Today a member of the TNT team who was a close friend to so many, passed away. Doug Oxendine, who is noted as a wonderful husband, father, mentor and friend. I know so many of them are aching, as he passed away from the very diseases and cancers they are railing against by raising money. This is a reminder of why to raise money, to race and to find a cure.

Rest in Peace dear Doug

Training with Dad

So in honor of Father's Day, my dad joined me for my Saturday run. We joined the team in the early morning heat to do some hillwork and get in 4.5 miles. In our running gear (TNT shirts & short running shorts), we hit the hills. Ran a little, walked most, as I wasn't feeling super fabulous.
There are a couple photos somewhere of us on the trail, but it was good. We talked, walked and had a good time. It was cool for him to come out and see my long distance day of training. Now he's lived through a 19.5 mile training in winter, so this was really nothing. But surviving the heat was a challenge.

Afterwards, we met up with the family to visit Animal Kingdom. Exhausted at day's end, with the running around and heat. But it was good. We got to celebrate my niece's birthday as well. You know I was tired, as I couldn't even muster some ice cream cake that evening.

Now it brings a new day with the sun, some rest, plus pool time and maybe Downtown Disney.

Happy Father's Day to my absolute biggest supporter (emotionally not size-wise). I love you!

Disclaimer: he actually ties with my mom for that title.

Pool Time

Well, I've been fortunate to get in some pool time this week. Workout pool time. On Monday night my team trained for over 45 minutes doing laps with noodles, kickboards and freestyle. My legs felt like jell-o. It was a good workout.
It was really nice to be out of the heat as well to enjoy the pool, as it was 103 that day. Glad I wasn't running.
On Tuesday, I went to a friend's house and had a great pool time with dinner. We had a yummy black bean burger with veggies and kale chips (eewww). In the pool, I worked on working out vs. lounging. Great times.

This week is a rough week at work with some classroom training, so it's been draining me. Tonight is an early nite.