tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57682950499578304252024-02-18T22:28:14.093-05:00 Run, MeriG. Run."Step one, you start running. There is no step two." -B. StinsonRun, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.comBlogger125125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-78542580362120118252015-05-06T15:41:00.000-04:002015-05-06T15:41:28.340-04:00Boston Marathon 2015 Recap Part 2 of 2: The Race<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2015/04/boston-marathon-2015-recap-part-1-of-2.html" target="_blank">Part 1 of my recap</a> left off the night before the Boston Marathon. Here's Part 2 where I'll try to give a glimpse of my experience. It's long...but it does truly feel like I'm scratching the surface.</div>
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I like to leave a few weeks between me and my races before I write the recap. It first and foremost allows me to collect all the pictures I want to share (because #PhotoOp). But it also allows me to really distill in my mind what is important from the experience. What stuck? What stands out? What do I think about in hindsight? </div>
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I'll try to share some of those thoughts with you now.</div>
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<b><i>If you're going to run a marathon in the cold and in the rain....start your day off with Dana-Farber.</i></b></div>
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Last year <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/06/race-recap-part-2-2014-boston-marathon.html" target="_blank">I briefly wrote </a>about these amazingess of the pre-race set-up Dana-Farber volunteers run for us at a church near the starting line in Hopkington. Instead of sitting on the ground in the Athlete's Village, members of the DFMC team are hosted with VIP treatment. <span style="text-align: center;"> </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the empty church before we arrived (photo courtesy DFMC)</td></tr>
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Heat. Chairs. Indoor bathrooms as well as our own porto-potties outside (no lines!). Food. Drink. First-Aid prep table. Arts & Crafts table. Smiling volunteers. Company of friends.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hey runners: Is this not the most glorious sight in the world???</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">500 runners....just getting geared up!</td></tr>
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And it was great we had those facilities, because the weather had already started getting nasty. And we had a <i>lot</i> of time. The wheelchair and Wave 1 athletes started before 9 am. Wave 4 -- where most DFMC and charity runners begin -- had an 11:15 kick-off. Ugh.<br />
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Around 9 am we were all hearded outside in a break from the rain to take a group photo and listen to announcements. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting Organized </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting us pumped up: See you in Boston!!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsSQeg2rzoNnrXTWeYFl6UMET3_kQuNC9Cw7pHjwSI9wD8c6k91gvvdlV_X4Zbmyp-DI66vb2DX4rFSDtZRI5KHyF8BmngP-aRsEuj_Z8hbwmaer_KzJMicaNdZfskPsLPvlKyhqVvUWxF/s1600/DFMC_START_15_JK0318_7825-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsSQeg2rzoNnrXTWeYFl6UMET3_kQuNC9Cw7pHjwSI9wD8c6k91gvvdlV_X4Zbmyp-DI66vb2DX4rFSDtZRI5KHyF8BmngP-aRsEuj_Z8hbwmaer_KzJMicaNdZfskPsLPvlKyhqVvUWxF/s1600/DFMC_START_15_JK0318_7825-L.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 2015 Dana-Farber Marathon Team: $4.8MM raised....AND COUNTING!!</td></tr>
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I also had some time to meet celebrities. #Famous<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teammate Uzo Aduba stars in Netflix show "Orange is the New Black" which I LOVE! Clearly she and I are best friends now, if you couldn't tell.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And did I mention the porto-potties? That I used 75 times? Oh the pre-race tummy....</td></tr>
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And then it was time to walk to our starting corrals. Dana-Farber -- ever so prepared -- had ponchos for us so that we'd at least stay dry during this 10-15 minute parade to our start line.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was a little excited.</td></tr>
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<b><i>It rained. A lot. But that was no reason to have a puss-face on. Turn that frown...upside down!</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>I had made a decision over the weekend. Rain or shine, I was going to have some <i>fun! </i>I had raised over twelve-thousand dollars and I deserved to have a party in my hometown city.<br />
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Coming off of last year, I knew that there would be less spectators on the course and I was expecting things to be pretty sparse when you layered the weather on top of it. And, sure, there was less...but still so many! Amazing people came in their ponchos and their umbrellas and their mittens and they cheered like it was 70 and sunny. They were inspirational and their energy was truly infection. And I can't say enough positive things about the thousands of volunteers out there keeping us safe, hydrated and motivated.<br />
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<b><i>Friends and family got me through!</i></b><br />
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I had a mental list of people I was going to see along the way and I saw almost every body I intended to! What was so fantastic was seeing some <i>bonus friends</i> that I hadn't even necessarily been planning on. Good eye, everybody! Good eye!<br />
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My sister was in Natick at mile 10 holding a bit balloon caterpillar balloon. SMART STRATEGY.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw1OacgTC9WAF9p8IPwk_y3uy7p_9i6AYqhAxLs7y1pmvd_1K53d0igtYgCuOOn6PUmUlnGCCFYd7FmkPjKO-Zs6AnCI2wLfNz92LZdd1b7aCSIzg2Wyfr_4RoJdTwP9EZZ73AQplPoG9F/s1600/IMG_1278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw1OacgTC9WAF9p8IPwk_y3uy7p_9i6AYqhAxLs7y1pmvd_1K53d0igtYgCuOOn6PUmUlnGCCFYd7FmkPjKO-Zs6AnCI2wLfNz92LZdd1b7aCSIzg2Wyfr_4RoJdTwP9EZZ73AQplPoG9F/s1600/IMG_1278.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and the aptly named balloon caterpillar: Natick</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, I finished 2 seconds off my PR....but this selfie is WORTH IT. Wouldn't trade it for the world!</td></tr>
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I was so happy to see her, and so appreciative that she drove by herself to stand in the rain and watch me. What a good sister!! About a half mile later, I saw my friend Andrea and her mom and I gave them big sweaty hugs. <i>[Bonus to bad weather: Are you sweaty? Or just wet? Who cares!] </i></div>
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I had a little friend hiatus from 11 through 16, but that's okay because it was filled with great spectators including the famous Wellesley Scream Tunnel. Thanks, ladies!</div>
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Childhood friend Lauren and her step-mom Lizzie at mile 16 was another highlight. Lauren provided a very sturdy post for me to stretch my quads before hitting the Newton Hills! <i>[Are we hugging? Or are you just holding me up? Either way, this is nice.]</i></div>
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Just at mile 17 you make a right hand turn by the Newton Firehouse. This is where I turned on the pizzazz because, camera.</div>
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A marathon is no excuse to not be taking your glam shots.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is one of my proudest accomplishments from the day: A good in-action running shot that actually looks like I'm running! #KillinIt</td></tr>
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The energy at 17 as you enter the hills is powerful and for a little bit I was A-OK.</div>
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My legs, which had felt great through the first half, started acting a little wonky at this point. It felt kind of like...I had been running for nearly three hours. Yes. It felt exactly like that. Oh, and the tough part was just starting. Because then, I was running uphill. In the rain. Against 20 mile per hour winds. That were in my face.</div>
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Sigh.</div>
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I'll admit that miles 17-21 I had a bit of a frowny face on the hills, culminating with Heartbreak. Up until this point I had been slapping high fives to children and giving the happy thumbs up to spectators calling my name. But Newton? You kicked my ass and I was unable to turn my grimace into anything remotely close to a smile for a little bit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQo2PLpnfUkIaWwqDVdBovD6L1LVO7TjqS_1l-Qv85hCto2TiHyzR1Vg6fUJhK4bnFfGb5QfAK4zVXmFTrh9ZHi4ustX0xpxrfdbfMIhyphenhyphenU2ztNHKYnd2z9yP0u1BtNDiW2TeVVmieAQghr/s1600/ouch.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQo2PLpnfUkIaWwqDVdBovD6L1LVO7TjqS_1l-Qv85hCto2TiHyzR1Vg6fUJhK4bnFfGb5QfAK4zVXmFTrh9ZHi4ustX0xpxrfdbfMIhyphenhyphenU2ztNHKYnd2z9yP0u1BtNDiW2TeVVmieAQghr/s1600/ouch.JPG" height="400" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ouch. Grimace.</td></tr>
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One great surprise was seeing an unexpected friend -- Rach -- during those hills. In moments like these, seeing familiar faces is pretty much the best feeling ever. You're like, OMG! IT'S YOU! IT'S YOUUUUU!! </div>
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I crested Heartbreak Hill and was greeted by quick a sight for sore eyes: my parents!<br />
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Dad, as always, brought his A-game when it came to signage:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJuQV8JI4ArCuLzXzYtla0pHd_TgQaCkJOQpT2tjlJZUxux9rVJO0hu7dTmp1oFX2dhPcCGJcMIV3mjDdH_1FmMiBlzRTj_lWB_PAJBbEgQA3MOCyvAf4W52MFoxSZlshRaX-2GdDKW0Cl/s1600/DSCN1185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJuQV8JI4ArCuLzXzYtla0pHd_TgQaCkJOQpT2tjlJZUxux9rVJO0hu7dTmp1oFX2dhPcCGJcMIV3mjDdH_1FmMiBlzRTj_lWB_PAJBbEgQA3MOCyvAf4W52MFoxSZlshRaX-2GdDKW0Cl/s1600/DSCN1185.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter Is Coming!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipf_mY_t6eKy74EM1aO7Nb8ZCsdSQc3dwwpdnyiwTfPLY2HwHe_DfaCk07qNzQFuA0hdl3B5dRLTn4Vi3tOf_TPWAgjEX-QhNiVkPEGWHImtvkiLksPg8Rcb7Xpvnxyap_BRdhP0DTHMpH/s1600/IMG_5246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipf_mY_t6eKy74EM1aO7Nb8ZCsdSQc3dwwpdnyiwTfPLY2HwHe_DfaCk07qNzQFuA0hdl3B5dRLTn4Vi3tOf_TPWAgjEX-QhNiVkPEGWHImtvkiLksPg8Rcb7Xpvnxyap_BRdhP0DTHMpH/s1600/IMG_5246.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The quads....oh the quads! Ahhhh! Help!</td></tr>
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After a little stretch and big hugs, I was on my way downhill into Boston.<br />
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In Brookline at Mile 23 I saw Amy (my hostess with the mostest from the night before!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3tWuENoZONMwSIL83uPUTfCKVB4At0EKgliaP35vUcW6WtKamskZugtHJAayDj_GLcpDVaQl460fW_mMHnq2R6Y8BAtoCsewpgp1-O8ylNmZsbYmfYKfr7fp4GLH7sdxxVuvyyKHqhLQp/s1600/Me+Mile+23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3tWuENoZONMwSIL83uPUTfCKVB4At0EKgliaP35vUcW6WtKamskZugtHJAayDj_GLcpDVaQl460fW_mMHnq2R6Y8BAtoCsewpgp1-O8ylNmZsbYmfYKfr7fp4GLH7sdxxVuvyyKHqhLQp/s1600/Me+Mile+23.jpg" height="400" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Hi Amy!"</td></tr>
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Mile 24 at Coolidge Corner, I saw Meghan and blew kisses.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMej-flh4ygBRuQbcwmK9DWCh_eg727qNC07iUZesB__gSb_sEl9rcq97JOxjVc5g0m1l9pgY0vSNvuRPi_B2bTFN-Y4PcgqpHwSohyUbeSnaJUwdIQqrUlhTsSH_LJpRx4VLAEPfx3cAY/s1600/blow+kiss.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMej-flh4ygBRuQbcwmK9DWCh_eg727qNC07iUZesB__gSb_sEl9rcq97JOxjVc5g0m1l9pgY0vSNvuRPi_B2bTFN-Y4PcgqpHwSohyUbeSnaJUwdIQqrUlhTsSH_LJpRx4VLAEPfx3cAY/s1600/blow+kiss.JPG" height="320" width="227" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhPLTFfwWb5MCnK73r3wCGBsYikQRZi2r9kOrmw-91pjQhM3scADnkrkzyO7wn_ZcdHv_vGyKd9g82yH5f64pi9uOsnPOJzICvpK0OSHlJW3BNIaZAQBYp5ZErPXa5xA3dTmQCAVP7Vunf/s1600/blow+kiss+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhPLTFfwWb5MCnK73r3wCGBsYikQRZi2r9kOrmw-91pjQhM3scADnkrkzyO7wn_ZcdHv_vGyKd9g82yH5f64pi9uOsnPOJzICvpK0OSHlJW3BNIaZAQBYp5ZErPXa5xA3dTmQCAVP7Vunf/s1600/blow+kiss+2.JPG" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>
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I unexpectedly saw friends Mike, Sam and Jane -- or rather, they saw me -- during Mile 25 which was pretty damn amazing considering A) I wasn't looking specifically for them and B) I was basically delirious and in pre-hypothermia at this point. Seeing them was like an oasis in the dessert. </div>
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<br />At a certain point I was just plodding one foot in front of the other. Literally I was thinking in my mind "Left. Right. Left. Right." I ran through every water stop because I knew that if I stopped to walk...it was very possible I'd never start again.</div>
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<b>Knowing the Dana-Farber Cheering Area was at Mile 25 was a godsend. </b></div>
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I just keep running towards them. The last significant uphill on the course is small, but certainly <i>there</i> during Mile 25 as you approach Kenmore Square. To a fatigued marathoner, who has just completed all of the Newton Hills, you're like, <i>what the....!?! </i>when you see it coming up ahead. But I put my head down and started smiling. Because I knew my cheering squad was waiting.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Yr1IJU1KO9Qde026e0ZX9zC_z3_vI8iSjzahfFxhrxhqbaZichif9YT3a10yr4UA_PpjCCSHJjDy7vDTAOGEGqseuU3xoIL6Or7hiDKfhoxGqXwSK_uoZs3XE1dQGyflZziIVDWdB3So/s1600/Mile+25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Yr1IJU1KO9Qde026e0ZX9zC_z3_vI8iSjzahfFxhrxhqbaZichif9YT3a10yr4UA_PpjCCSHJjDy7vDTAOGEGqseuU3xoIL6Or7hiDKfhoxGqXwSK_uoZs3XE1dQGyflZziIVDWdB3So/s1600/Mile+25.jpg" height="292" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waving to the DFMC supporters</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuNCwDU0G9oLLWAW50e81n94G7vvO1krwCry6zlInLamF6Gxs584Jl4aBUGvh-_AUW27L3X4RjOGLp-LoGv2XEylD7VvzrPSnjxlKX5ezTaGj68n73XAlS4Ml-j_hnqmGh9ljun9XBkMb9/s1600/Mile+25+running+away.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuNCwDU0G9oLLWAW50e81n94G7vvO1krwCry6zlInLamF6Gxs584Jl4aBUGvh-_AUW27L3X4RjOGLp-LoGv2XEylD7VvzrPSnjxlKX5ezTaGj68n73XAlS4Ml-j_hnqmGh9ljun9XBkMb9/s1600/Mile+25+running+away.JPG" height="252" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A shot of my best side: With the Pacesetter patch (signifying my fundraising accomplishment!) and names of some of the people I was running in honor or in memory of.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmTCoNdHlqTngBiE0brZavx6lHgw_PiGmkL2UF0Ip2b8_qohdn4VvleWi_yNXA8xnAq51251-By7JvXV8U0Dkwu6VWVXGI5eHDHMYZmn0wJdU7FYqKgrl6thXC8Ls_s0ws6TA4AYSHluMH/s1600/IMG_5109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmTCoNdHlqTngBiE0brZavx6lHgw_PiGmkL2UF0Ip2b8_qohdn4VvleWi_yNXA8xnAq51251-By7JvXV8U0Dkwu6VWVXGI5eHDHMYZmn0wJdU7FYqKgrl6thXC8Ls_s0ws6TA4AYSHluMH/s1600/IMG_5109.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Running in Kenmore Square I inexplicably saw Britany and Leticia amongst the crowd.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz8pOy8jtwjhSpEhWeUy2jWKy_Ypky4D_jIKjYXOzknX2J6UbBHuBtCRWUDtwLDH44M9vO88oo9DvlZiuA96HSMsmu-LiaGVrUAdu_zkQA1mmzjFPxhYC-Sdxru0bvkqJ5T4n0X6C4jp-s/s1600/IMG_5231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz8pOy8jtwjhSpEhWeUy2jWKy_Ypky4D_jIKjYXOzknX2J6UbBHuBtCRWUDtwLDH44M9vO88oo9DvlZiuA96HSMsmu-LiaGVrUAdu_zkQA1mmzjFPxhYC-Sdxru0bvkqJ5T4n0X6C4jp-s/s1600/IMG_5231.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bye guys! Just 'bout to finish my 4th marathon!<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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<b>From Kenmore you just go. You don't think. You just do.</b></div>
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You run. You've just been powered by the crowds outside Fenway hollering your name. You run over a painted line in the street that says "1 mile to go." You run under some overpasses and you go underneath where Mass Ave crosses over. You go uphill for a minute and your legs are <i>screaming</i> but you don't care. Everyone is screaming so why should your legs miss out of the fun?</div>
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You turn right on Hereford.</div>
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Your turn left on Boylston.</div>
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You start to cry.</div>
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You start to cry just writing this.</div>
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You feel the emotion of what you have just accomplished. Raising over $12,500 for a charity you love thanks to over 120 separate and individual donations from people in your life. Celebrating that accomplishment by accomplishing something you've never done: Completing a marathon in the <i>rain.</i> </div>
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You're wet. You're tired. The crowds are deafening. You think about looking at your watch and then you realize that <i>you don't care about your time.</i> You know you've done everything you possibly could and that you did something remarkable today.</div>
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You push as fast as your beaten up body will allow it, with the Finish Line ahead. You stop to look to your left to the sites of the 2013 bombings and give a little nod.</div>
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You can actually <i>feel </i>the crowd looking at <i>you.</i> Cheering for <i>you. </i>You are a hero.</div>
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And you smile through your tears that may be of pain or maybe of joy, because you're really not sure anymore. And your raise your arms and cross the Finish Line of the 119th Boston Marathon.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuPPhk2dSM7R381CVQe5lfSLubM_aEw39_Y9JXC7sNIbNBmKe5ZQU-6LIHZLPI0s3LhEfFeCdabaS2wRFdl-c7hY9eGtM9V62E3QmqXxN-ZZljyYI1NRlPCyDkwNb_xAzhTl_pt-wdNWnU/s1600/Finish+Line+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuPPhk2dSM7R381CVQe5lfSLubM_aEw39_Y9JXC7sNIbNBmKe5ZQU-6LIHZLPI0s3LhEfFeCdabaS2wRFdl-c7hY9eGtM9V62E3QmqXxN-ZZljyYI1NRlPCyDkwNb_xAzhTl_pt-wdNWnU/s1600/Finish+Line+1.jpg" height="212" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>I couldn't stop crying when I finished.</b><br />
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My body released this physical and emotional energy as I walked to collect my medal that was truly unlike anything I had experienced, even after Miami, NYC or Boston last year. I was so full of joy and pride that I thought my heart would burst.<br />
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A stranger gave me a hug.<br />
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A Dana-Farber photographer took a picture of me with some other teammates who finished at times near me, but who I don't know. It doesn't matter. They felt like my best friends that moment.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2vnNdeUpPnnpW-JWR_O7hFlHK8wZkPfj4J-tdQ5vYCTm4Wxze_8eZE0R7f3ct_L3-sSuMpbg06uISV3DJDga2vT0sUcbSYzvyTO20AH4ij5QzXNIXiK8_f-xHz3Q8wSmutrqZj2yzKXYV/s1600/DFMC_FINISH_15_JK_0742_7825-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2vnNdeUpPnnpW-JWR_O7hFlHK8wZkPfj4J-tdQ5vYCTm4Wxze_8eZE0R7f3ct_L3-sSuMpbg06uISV3DJDga2vT0sUcbSYzvyTO20AH4ij5QzXNIXiK8_f-xHz3Q8wSmutrqZj2yzKXYV/s1600/DFMC_FINISH_15_JK_0742_7825-L.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<b>People ask about my time. But it isn't about that. It never was.</b></div>
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I knew I likely hadn't PRed, but wasn't sure how close I was because I hadn't stopped my watch right when I finished. It would later turn out I was <i>two seconds</i> off last year, which is also my marathon PR. Official finish time: 4:16:55. </div>
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Who cares. I had fun. I did it. And I was proud of my time. Last year can remain my PR and I am happy with that. I trained as hard as I could and I ran that race -- in the rain and wind and cold -- as hard as I could. And I still took a selfie with a caterpillar and gave kids high fives and hugged my mom and smiled for the cameras. So, I win.</div>
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<b>And then what?</b></div>
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A volunteer collected me and brought me back to the DFMC meeting area at the Marriott Copley. There I recovered, changed into the jacket I had earned with every one of those wet, hard, cold miles. And I found my fan club. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhniToa2e703JkR3qvnvCW5EEZ1FJ9-ztFfADMHJvVdEkiHUNn1iypQf30ZF47EY92Ao0c4RqfOIiK3pzhmysdUD-Zn1Ni15nKpfHROJ30Te0_qbr7zmO1bvevIDceKrcUiNAXTMvmA_ew5/s1600/FullSizeRender+(5).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhniToa2e703JkR3qvnvCW5EEZ1FJ9-ztFfADMHJvVdEkiHUNn1iypQf30ZF47EY92Ao0c4RqfOIiK3pzhmysdUD-Zn1Ni15nKpfHROJ30Te0_qbr7zmO1bvevIDceKrcUiNAXTMvmA_ew5/s1600/FullSizeRender+(5).jpg" height="316" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>I have to say some thanks at this point. If you'll indulge me.</b><br />
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Thank you for allowing me to share this journey with you. I know Marathon blogs can be a dime a dozen, but writing about my experiences is so therapeutic and wonderful for me. I want to capture these memories forever for myself...but I like sharing them with others as well. It brings meaning to my miles and to why I do what I do. So, thank you.<br />
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Thank you to my parents. For everything you do and everything you say and for all the k'velling both to me and to...basically everyone you encounter. You make me feel so special and loved and supported. Experiencing this training season and that weekend wit you means the world to me and I will cherish these memories <i>always</i>. You are truly the best fan club and "ground crew" anyone could ask for.<br />
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Thank you to my sister and friends who spectated in-person and to all of you who I <i>know</i> were "spectating" from afar. It may sound cheesy, but I felt your energy and your encouragement. Especially when I crossed a mile marker I knew was being tracked in the app, in my head I knew I was being thought of and cheered on, and I appreciate that so much.<br />
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Thank you to Dana-Farber. To my teammates, the volunteers, the coordinators and -- of course -- the Doctors and staff at the hospital itself: You are wonderful.<br />
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And last but not least, thank you to everyone who donated to my Marathon Challenge. We raised $12,548 (with some more trickling in!). Every time I felt like I was going to have to stop or that I was in pain, I truly did think of you and your support. You got me through it and I was proud to run in honor of the funds you donated to the cause.<br />
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With gratitude, love, and some lingering soreness,<br />
Meri<br />
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<i>Until next time...</i><br />
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Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-84139152800063067462015-04-28T22:47:00.000-04:002015-04-28T23:16:33.391-04:00Boston Marathon 2015 Recap Part 1 of 2: Race WeekendGet ready for a long, photo-heavy Recap!<br />
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The Friday before the 119th running of the Boston Marathon, I arrived by Train from NYC to Boston. Rolling my little suitcase along, I could tell fellow Marathon journey-ers. They were the ones wearing sneakers instead of stylish shoes. And rocking their garish orange 2014 jackets. I felt like I wanted to go up to them and give them a hug or ask them how they were feeling. But I decided instead on being appropriate. For once.<br />
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My parents picked me up from the train -- just the start of a full weekend of them being the most supportive, amazing, wonderful fan club in the world. You've seen the pictures on Facebook already, so you know I'm not exaggerating! I got to see some of my good friends from high school that night before getting a good night sleep in my childhood home.<br />
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That morning I had my only real freak out of the weekend when I saw the long term forecast was for temps in the 40s with headwinds and rain. When my Dad asked if that was a problem while being amazing and cooking me eggs I was like, "OF COURSE THAT'S A PROBLEM AND I DON'T LIKE WEARING PANTS AND WILL I BE ABLE TO WEAR A SHIRT UNDER MY CHARITY RACE TANK AND WHAT IF I CHAFE AND GAHHHH." And my Dad was like, "Would you like Kielbasa with your eggs?" And I was like, "yes please" and that about covered the freak out.</div>
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My Mom and I got up bright and early on Saturday to drive to Boston to register and spend <strike>money </strike>time at the Expo at the Hynes Convention Center.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnAIKJxlIsG9bL8HTCEV2pA-CwNWSZSX8vL79l1PN61gjEdHA48yUjJbKmCJJVuxgKcWVGM-6gdKYMXQ50y8iaaEglnEaeaOC1H03WgQOtRUSU7PUY9ITzfkECa_R1t39PIksOy8LwSYsz/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnAIKJxlIsG9bL8HTCEV2pA-CwNWSZSX8vL79l1PN61gjEdHA48yUjJbKmCJJVuxgKcWVGM-6gdKYMXQ50y8iaaEglnEaeaOC1H03WgQOtRUSU7PUY9ITzfkECa_R1t39PIksOy8LwSYsz/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" height="205" width="400" /></a></div>
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I got my race bib without incident (they run a good ship at the Boston check-in!) and alongside other eager runners took my turn to grin for the camera. Myra is well-practiced at the step-and-repeat wall photo now!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzpUrxi08y0ejZ7V4vl9-_9VMK3D33u1iQU_rfe1kd25_-zD6Ladk_3eS4mf1eYy74L_x-kVnNx2ldgy4rCnZpWdbGnPgeBQZ7xQh36PR1qIXPwWGT9N08_fAQ_s-Gz36tnovIFyBOFEKz/s1600/FullSizeRender+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzpUrxi08y0ejZ7V4vl9-_9VMK3D33u1iQU_rfe1kd25_-zD6Ladk_3eS4mf1eYy74L_x-kVnNx2ldgy4rCnZpWdbGnPgeBQZ7xQh36PR1qIXPwWGT9N08_fAQ_s-Gz36tnovIFyBOFEKz/s1600/FullSizeRender+(1).jpg" height="400" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheeeeeeese!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBsa8BtaAcHGtbGnaNbCMbIXXySj0ufTC-lgIKbXU6jDW0ndyVDfF2Djv0DCePeVIfYGub2CJW9j8gFrSfKvXQCfDUiRgpOQ3OOoDl9NYTRvkNaUWJbamKZQ79p__1KP0uDVboyqHE2tQC/s1600/IMG_5131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBsa8BtaAcHGtbGnaNbCMbIXXySj0ufTC-lgIKbXU6jDW0ndyVDfF2Djv0DCePeVIfYGub2CJW9j8gFrSfKvXQCfDUiRgpOQ3OOoDl9NYTRvkNaUWJbamKZQ79p__1KP0uDVboyqHE2tQC/s1600/IMG_5131.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entering the Expo! Always gives me chills....</td></tr>
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I bought. All the things. All. The things. And my mom insisted on holding all the things so I would "rest up" and have my hands free. I did not argue. She also bought me these amazingly <strike>ugly</strike> comfortable "recovery footwear" sandles by <a href="http://www.oofos.com/" target="_blank">Oofos</a> at the expo. I scoffed at them at first because they are--frankly -- less than stylish. But they're AMAZING on the feet. I'm in love. Runners, take notice.</div>
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<a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0254/5969/products/150402-OOlalapink_1024x1024.jpg?v=1428075794" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0254/5969/products/150402-OOlalapink_1024x1024.jpg?v=1428075794" height="144" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Note: She also insisted on purchasing them for me, but only if I would consider the hot pink option instead of black. Because they are "snazzier." For once, I can not argue. They are indeed snazzier.</i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHsxBoWCsuDYIPnibkx-YTnlphMgbyqCiW1eFb7X1zHvu46od46gMDsreCCbpf5QSpvADPEfu8JN-JHvptpWS9kipg5FiOJaYKANBeIFefgvYZZ4MBx3es2EU7367_z8OhV0rUOLteATqZ/s1600/IMG_5138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHsxBoWCsuDYIPnibkx-YTnlphMgbyqCiW1eFb7X1zHvu46od46gMDsreCCbpf5QSpvADPEfu8JN-JHvptpWS9kipg5FiOJaYKANBeIFefgvYZZ4MBx3es2EU7367_z8OhV0rUOLteATqZ/s1600/IMG_5138.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and my sherpa</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmi93AAa40onug1eB_vb1OwHipI3KspOx6P1wJRknUsqdFRAor15oSLcpnmh1DI3bCn8yGdi4cx1NdLzy31-J00bkeqUCMT44v53_-V8jHkcuvZO7qWhEzB7jmvpylUlSXgVOs9F7KYRwx/s1600/IMG_5148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmi93AAa40onug1eB_vb1OwHipI3KspOx6P1wJRknUsqdFRAor15oSLcpnmh1DI3bCn8yGdi4cx1NdLzy31-J00bkeqUCMT44v53_-V8jHkcuvZO7qWhEzB7jmvpylUlSXgVOs9F7KYRwx/s1600/IMG_5148.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How many headbands purchased....are too many headbands? Would you say? These headbands all speak deep truths so I think it's okay.</td></tr>
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I always love a good expo, and I find Boston second-to-none. There are so many great booths in addition to the typical fare from pre-race events (Sam Adams? Yes PLEASE!) And the custom Boston shirts were so cute. I had to hold myself back from buying them all. My Mom kept asking me, <i>"But do you </i>need<i> it?" </i>To which I kept replying, "I literally need nothing. I will -- however -- buy everything."<br />
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After spending some quality time, we headed from the Hynes Convention Center to the Marriot Copley where Dana-Farber had their own check-in. There, I received detailed instructions from amazing volunteers about our own pre-race activities.<br />
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I also was able to check out the board which listed the fundraisers who had reached different fundraising goals. Here is Mom pointing with pride to my name(ish) as an $8K Pacesetter!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQVhyhp7t7ABIqpg6IBumSGV7D_1Veil7LIE9RNi4fo3sdXHpPZolV2JnOyuOF2vk9t6h8GWahnZ3PZx4qv_n1zs1SaIM9HooZA70uXgIj5FViCqy54vDmIMx9fUzo6aH1GVpyhmNX5iKP/s1600/IMG_5144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQVhyhp7t7ABIqpg6IBumSGV7D_1Veil7LIE9RNi4fo3sdXHpPZolV2JnOyuOF2vk9t6h8GWahnZ3PZx4qv_n1zs1SaIM9HooZA70uXgIj5FViCqy54vDmIMx9fUzo6aH1GVpyhmNX5iKP/s1600/IMG_5144.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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It was so fun to do these activities a <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/04/pre-marathon-festivities-in-photos.html" target="_blank">second year in a row</a>. Going into it, I thought maybe I'd be a little "let down" being a veteran. Would it be as special a second time as the first? Would it feel weird? Redundant?</div>
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It actually was fabulous.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ran into another fan club of mine outside of the Expo! Val and Rob have known me since I was a baby and -- how wonderful are they? They made signs for me at the expo! And are dressed for the part!</td></tr>
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Last year I was a bit consumed by the logistics and newness of it all. And frankly, I was also very consumed with it being the one year anniversary of the bombings (understandably). I found it wonderful to enjoy a "normal" expo that still had the vibes of Boston Strong pride, but without the mayhem of the crowds from the year before that flocked to the Expo and Finish Line. I also enjoyed knowing where to go, and what to see. I learned from the year before and optimized my experience this time.</div>
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It was, in fact, freaking awesome.</div>
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I finished the day a bit tired having walked more than I probably should have (but I had the OOFOS!) but feeling energized. Weather schmether. The expo had hooked me in to the energy, power, history and wonder of the race and the unique, unparalleled Boston Marathon vibe. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh224UL1I3yxTM7PD02wZ3aTor37QUSC84GZZvROnsOA3vPSdtK40Fd3nJ38I-Z633jpb19De1NOrtkMGJKfF68oPpGAVua2gLoYLAOOpIFXDERZOJYGxbB5VUmP2ADseNzZn9SVG9Sa2TS/s1600/IMG_5135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh224UL1I3yxTM7PD02wZ3aTor37QUSC84GZZvROnsOA3vPSdtK40Fd3nJ38I-Z633jpb19De1NOrtkMGJKfF68oPpGAVua2gLoYLAOOpIFXDERZOJYGxbB5VUmP2ADseNzZn9SVG9Sa2TS/s1600/IMG_5135.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Sunday I got up and packed my bags. One to check with Dana-Farber for after the run, and one to keep with me when I stayed with college friends of mine who were amazing enough to host me at their place in Brookline for the pre-race night. I can't stress enough how much better having solid pre-race logistics makes your mental state. A comfortable place to stay with friends who will drive you to the Boston Common at 6:30 am to catch the shuttles to Hopkington is more than clutch. Thank you, Steven and Amy!</div>
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My parents and I drove into Boston and spent some quality time on Boylston Street taking in the gorgeous day. My brain kept alternating between: <i>"Why can't this weather just be tomorrow?!?!" </i>and "<i>Shut your face everything is wonderful." </i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ2UL-RDcCv3tl99Ot2CxO63TCBvtfuyiDFoy9AkPzRcg0SAq0tO-7IeLV0NE7iGWqragQQVi9l8y8Fu1Wb3X5Y3jjzjdryXZT_KJtYcSgpVs5vZ7SkyKog_YYGz136sqEb2MCnnmCLVPM/s1600/DSCN1177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ2UL-RDcCv3tl99Ot2CxO63TCBvtfuyiDFoy9AkPzRcg0SAq0tO-7IeLV0NE7iGWqragQQVi9l8y8Fu1Wb3X5Y3jjzjdryXZT_KJtYcSgpVs5vZ7SkyKog_YYGz136sqEb2MCnnmCLVPM/s1600/DSCN1177.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> A magical place for a stroll!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1e7sXBP9lvppusXA0KeM258y0txVyk-sugm9yji0QFKA4gmBVQgVmfScdBl1HW3NnDaTKtbvzekxVTU6MUI8OTWBds-2UYxyVVXRukUWGHbGZe26TtVpdivdEspzst3mKrYO1aSZswueG/s1600/DSCN1179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1e7sXBP9lvppusXA0KeM258y0txVyk-sugm9yji0QFKA4gmBVQgVmfScdBl1HW3NnDaTKtbvzekxVTU6MUI8OTWBds-2UYxyVVXRukUWGHbGZe26TtVpdivdEspzst3mKrYO1aSZswueG/s1600/DSCN1179.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's I! On an I!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmWYm2F8O8GfqovtCL1e-miqKbEBSnXpMOp1nMPB6od4qutB9aC4IPf0VXFrOzA-FRYietNMBfT41OAqRadpR9L_FuEJZDEinvVhooNtz9FQZwVliJpgK71pMt8qYsZ6m9Huaazx8vmnI1/s1600/IMG_5155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmWYm2F8O8GfqovtCL1e-miqKbEBSnXpMOp1nMPB6od4qutB9aC4IPf0VXFrOzA-FRYietNMBfT41OAqRadpR9L_FuEJZDEinvVhooNtz9FQZwVliJpgK71pMt8qYsZ6m9Huaazx8vmnI1/s1600/IMG_5155.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's Only One #DFMC. But there's also only one Boston Marathon. And only one bestest fan club in the whole wide world!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPiuCjlhF9dp-j7GRIyAyN4gp32iuazDqcoPOzKB-4o-MymCzdn8eVm4FON0QyEYJQTjKnp_Tt25rIfd1dJS6_FAeDmgguOwjxRvXJaQHwRCMGDH7lzjR9JMKC2GQ8_Kqao4_SepX-z46/s1600/IMG_5157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPiuCjlhF9dp-j7GRIyAyN4gp32iuazDqcoPOzKB-4o-MymCzdn8eVm4FON0QyEYJQTjKnp_Tt25rIfd1dJS6_FAeDmgguOwjxRvXJaQHwRCMGDH7lzjR9JMKC2GQ8_Kqao4_SepX-z46/s1600/IMG_5157.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let's take a selfie!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LTcE9snGKpuHGdASGP9bgOwpFdUi0E90YycZ-vUJpOHvh_GXBh7xxMwTKPgSqMuX4UtrG4jCG-fxGC69jpzyunSBxdwyV3gLoh7EpRBCkPOc3rZif_u52L6tjmVet_fmpySUnIs-a3cW/s1600/IMG_5158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LTcE9snGKpuHGdASGP9bgOwpFdUi0E90YycZ-vUJpOHvh_GXBh7xxMwTKPgSqMuX4UtrG4jCG-fxGC69jpzyunSBxdwyV3gLoh7EpRBCkPOc3rZif_u52L6tjmVet_fmpySUnIs-a3cW/s1600/IMG_5158.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let's take an excited selfie!!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGwPh8LBP91jO-wkOLLI399MHAhOxmukIw9qdI63y1BFuddpHz8M3MxMJNCI2K8LoqNrYPi-mq33W7EjPYnpjcKMFWqOn_DjH9FEt4_PFb9xymlPCze1BWNPnIuXyiXi4WxQWEj8n_qT0/s1600/IMG_5162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbGwPh8LBP91jO-wkOLLI399MHAhOxmukIw9qdI63y1BFuddpHz8M3MxMJNCI2K8LoqNrYPi-mq33W7EjPYnpjcKMFWqOn_DjH9FEt4_PFb9xymlPCze1BWNPnIuXyiXi4WxQWEj8n_qT0/s1600/IMG_5162.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Dad would tell you this is part of an inside joke. I would tell you that these are two of the most badass gangsters you've ever seen. You decide. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraBUg55zFd5jQcrw7I13YXs1qGkMFbriWEYy7Fha8mP_Al7awlL-rNd1IV-Ihum3WBkelDtKzO4Ng4__9zbqIwzMMThaVlYkEg8_cCLgYPb70Emp33JsRWJ_Q2d6Y83xk__AUXZUOOOtl/s1600/IMG_5164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiraBUg55zFd5jQcrw7I13YXs1qGkMFbriWEYy7Fha8mP_Al7awlL-rNd1IV-Ihum3WBkelDtKzO4Ng4__9zbqIwzMMThaVlYkEg8_cCLgYPb70Emp33JsRWJ_Q2d6Y83xk__AUXZUOOOtl/s1600/IMG_5164.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The man who inspired me running with Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge! </td></tr>
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My Dad is wearing a button in this picture that says he is "Living Proof." This is Dana-Farber's way of recognizing friends, family and -- in many cases -- the Runner themself. Living Proof are current or former cancer patients, and they are strong. They are resilient. And they -- and their families -- are why I run.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizg_ymm_j47UKKzi97BItodQJeDVKuSmXsPx-Dd4xNYEsYMActAubS4YfyFnyP9SFy0oMhiP8kaCEEAnXRdrTVCa2zt4SkomuTwkK8IKrYOHTjhINZyeKRF2PMRrmt9ih70sn6vfn1jvDR/s1600/IMG_5166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizg_ymm_j47UKKzi97BItodQJeDVKuSmXsPx-Dd4xNYEsYMActAubS4YfyFnyP9SFy0oMhiP8kaCEEAnXRdrTVCa2zt4SkomuTwkK8IKrYOHTjhINZyeKRF2PMRrmt9ih70sn6vfn1jvDR/s1600/IMG_5166.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See you tomorrow....</td></tr>
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Although the ambiance was positive, upbeat and full of excitement, there was of course reminders of 2013. We never forget.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MPJsel8Bba6FxO8k0j_XC51u-Uw0LSfamcOsQ4oxZAuW0JR_pNgVmzGiiYYCjKRyHLGidj7YsuiOh5OyTGuEILyiSXsN_UZRUzFoAYd2S0NYUwOLPKnx3QX1SLKl5kzsQuzJvZVawi9M/s1600/IMG_5167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MPJsel8Bba6FxO8k0j_XC51u-Uw0LSfamcOsQ4oxZAuW0JR_pNgVmzGiiYYCjKRyHLGidj7YsuiOh5OyTGuEILyiSXsN_UZRUzFoAYd2S0NYUwOLPKnx3QX1SLKl5kzsQuzJvZVawi9M/s1600/IMG_5167.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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And we also never forget that nobody. And I mean Nobody. Runs like Boston.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb6r0WdphaF4ewVo6HqPlvuF4kgJNEUAshra06t56sSNkiUwqExmOHjIvDq-HFtzLyybgwuQQJIKslbP5CVgnrtWxQqIxYA821ujd8ZZn24PijuIJhyphenhyphenVtBmKW5lycyqMMhvLFjSP20-r7I/s1600/IMG_5169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb6r0WdphaF4ewVo6HqPlvuF4kgJNEUAshra06t56sSNkiUwqExmOHjIvDq-HFtzLyybgwuQQJIKslbP5CVgnrtWxQqIxYA821ujd8ZZn24PijuIJhyphenhyphenVtBmKW5lycyqMMhvLFjSP20-r7I/s1600/IMG_5169.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice Marketing New Balance! xoxo</td></tr>
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We went to the much anticipated <a href="http://www.bostonmagazine.com/health/blog/2015/04/02/runbase-boston-marathon-store-adidas-boylston-street/" target="_blank">Adidas "RunBase."</a> It's basically a Boston Marathon store run by Adidas that sells merchandise, provides course information and displays memorabilia. But it will also serve as a place for Boston runners to store clothes, change, shower, etc. while they run. In essence it's the most brilliant marketing ever. And it was cool!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeAAqc6FcH4XRs2FhhTtMMBxomCEWa02habZT6E7mxaEsHVBCCdaRbpAyMCBga1Y1mQkUvB7R2PIVTA5c9l5mOxbNazSQKAu_IdctRjafmhhJwiuVBdfCv5xdRoc2_bgqQysMFi_9UaCo8/s1600/IMG_5171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeAAqc6FcH4XRs2FhhTtMMBxomCEWa02habZT6E7mxaEsHVBCCdaRbpAyMCBga1Y1mQkUvB7R2PIVTA5c9l5mOxbNazSQKAu_IdctRjafmhhJwiuVBdfCv5xdRoc2_bgqQysMFi_9UaCo8/s1600/IMG_5171.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3D topography map of the course</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiclHTMejRkz62eey8RCvl4LH_UuBBPp6bEmpPZjqmMYByFY5daEwQNWYDBSGjSTTzWgmr0l49h6CLj95g4W0M8YJvwf4p7oZkIFNCOWcTjhHnf-njzvgC6W5LehWUk-JYAzK9AUZ4qrc31/s1600/IMG_5172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiclHTMejRkz62eey8RCvl4LH_UuBBPp6bEmpPZjqmMYByFY5daEwQNWYDBSGjSTTzWgmr0l49h6CLj95g4W0M8YJvwf4p7oZkIFNCOWcTjhHnf-njzvgC6W5LehWUk-JYAzK9AUZ4qrc31/s1600/IMG_5172.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interactive digital view of the course</td></tr>
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After spending some time there and strolling Newbury Street, we meandered back to the Marriot Copley -- DFMC's home base -- for the other main event of my Marathon experience: The Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge Pasta Party.<br />
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If you followed me last year, you know how incredibly moved I was by this experience. And this year provided those same strong emotions.</div>
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The event is top notch.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMwTiZmwj-BMWWHeKsE8yZqfE16fYQfnzE2GgPPCwYfcOJn_mSoSEq9Mj31qw0KLxU_BYBe8narcpTo4UGINX5PJmNCbGdTUpp7h1M__FmRmyGyWRoKItNgbjpvpImFQ1Jak8IC9oV-eI6/s1600/IMG_5186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMwTiZmwj-BMWWHeKsE8yZqfE16fYQfnzE2GgPPCwYfcOJn_mSoSEq9Mj31qw0KLxU_BYBe8narcpTo4UGINX5PJmNCbGdTUpp7h1M__FmRmyGyWRoKItNgbjpvpImFQ1Jak8IC9oV-eI6/s1600/IMG_5186.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This picture doesn't capture how MASSIVE the ballroom is. I think there was something like 140 tables and 6 pasta bars!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS2g9ijw3NVAhzi2XDsGSq2PLHvAiOI-ghyphenhyphenygolA4TfaS5Zetsx3fuaWvTTM9g6zcCeEu22NLZXVsAtlT-4Biu5qPUFIIOCFTu__LVyNd27ExaNbDuLN9B_CST9_ftWsMvVj4yn9jy_2rQ/s1600/IMG_5185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS2g9ijw3NVAhzi2XDsGSq2PLHvAiOI-ghyphenhyphenygolA4TfaS5Zetsx3fuaWvTTM9g6zcCeEu22NLZXVsAtlT-4Biu5qPUFIIOCFTu__LVyNd27ExaNbDuLN9B_CST9_ftWsMvVj4yn9jy_2rQ/s1600/IMG_5185.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our table. Cookies and brownies already out and ready for the taking. On point.<br />
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I could write a novel just trying to capture the experience of being at this dinner. They had speakers from DFMC explaining how much we raised and where the funds would go. We had the Boston Marathon Race Director talk to us as well as Uta Pippig who won the women's race in the early 90s and is a big DFMC supporter. And we were reminded why we run.</div>
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A gentleman spoke who had lost his wife to cancer and who himself had battled the disease. He thanked us for the 1004 "bonus days" he spent with his talented, artistic wife due to experimental treatments that came directly from Basic Research which we were funding. He and his son would be running with us on Monday. And we were reminded why we run.</div>
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We watched an In Memorium video of children who lost their battle to cancer. And we were reminded why we run.</div>
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And we watched children currently being treated for cancer get awarded their own special medals by their runner partners. And we were reminded why we run.</div>
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We were told that of our team goal of $5.2 million dollars towards Innovative Basic Cancer research, we were already at $4.6 million. And more continues to pour in. This money will fund programs that will help extend lives and improve lives. We are making a difference, and we were reminded why we run.</div>
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Tears poured out of my eyes so often. But beyond feeling those pangs of sadness, I felt so proud of our accomplishment. Of <i>my</i> accomplishment. As of today -- April 28 -- I have raised $12,548. This is over $1,000 more than last year and brings a two-year grand total to nearly $24,000. By the people I know and have connected for this cause that I hold so critical near and dear.</div>
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So when I was asked, <i>are you nervous about tomorrow?</i> No. Not at all. I have the support of countless friends and family. I have done an outstanding job raising money. I have trained. I have prepared. I am ready.</div>
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Let the rain come and get me. I didn't care. I was reminded why I run and I was ready to take on Boston.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAx9gvaEtViXVKcftx7mz_o_ktjBR1Ll9VkcDA6tFX8aaoW0RP2NqZWGe4hQYwJpRGeQn9CtJTB9ea4FNemqAXoK_j7zceajH1jPos0v-DGm0C8W3fCWAjFoFHI4Gnh7_Vw8gUQ8ixx4I/s1600/IMG_5188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAx9gvaEtViXVKcftx7mz_o_ktjBR1Ll9VkcDA6tFX8aaoW0RP2NqZWGe4hQYwJpRGeQn9CtJTB9ea4FNemqAXoK_j7zceajH1jPos0v-DGm0C8W3fCWAjFoFHI4Gnh7_Vw8gUQ8ixx4I/s1600/IMG_5188.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In addition to his Living Proof button, my Dad is wearing his PMC hat. He has been a volunteer of the Pan Mass Challenge -- which also supports Dana-Farber -- for over a decade. My Mom dons her DFMC cheering shirt. #FashionFirst.</td></tr>
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And with that...I was off to Steve and Amy's to rest and prep for the big day....<br />
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<i>...to be continued....</i></div>
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Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-71670458396981543582015-04-12T12:27:00.000-04:002015-04-12T12:27:03.024-04:00What I've Learned This Time AroundFriends, we are just about a week out from the 2015 Boston Marathon. This will be my fourth marathon...yet somehow it feels no less special than #1, #2 or #3, as magical as they were.<br />
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I've been doing a lot of thinking lately about how I feel about where I am at with my running. I'm a solid "Marathoner" now. As of next Monday, I'll have run 4 marathons and 17 Half Marathons which -- I think we can all agree -- puts me solid in experienced runner territory. Despite this irrefutable fact, it still feels odd and different as I still don't see myself as the athletic racer. I rather still see myself as the unathletic, chubby girl struggling to hang from the high bar during the Presidential Challenge. :::Shudder::: And don't get me started on the Shuttle Run.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz1PRRjs19sWl0_7Rse36wddKoDh0lI3DvCbiFnSzhQMj3-blOGjrHWeeTglcVPNwvIJzzw2BmWBdzTLQF_EEl4nEL6eI_T9u5mg4sm_2tn_m7BXjyGJpCteaPUoQ3TxrvQFyi09S9aAY8/s1600/$_35.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz1PRRjs19sWl0_7Rse36wddKoDh0lI3DvCbiFnSzhQMj3-blOGjrHWeeTglcVPNwvIJzzw2BmWBdzTLQF_EEl4nEL6eI_T9u5mg4sm_2tn_m7BXjyGJpCteaPUoQ3TxrvQFyi09S9aAY8/s1600/$_35.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Despite running Marathons, this logo still is my nightmare</td></tr>
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And so I've been doing a bit of soul searching as someone who has a personal brand, basically, as an athlete now. As a runner. As a cat-lady runner. As a tapering, crazy, cat-lady runner.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6e2MgOieveHinz36UKqjPNe7vlwHbzBsFKdGZd0rTPzZbjv3EwA4uS0J1BwaGd15TS3cx967beco8CMd1tphUJjVvvAg-CTQnm7hSLh4siRYxF78UbaekandTZFBtxbF_3Ucg15NRSMp0/s1600/0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6e2MgOieveHinz36UKqjPNe7vlwHbzBsFKdGZd0rTPzZbjv3EwA4uS0J1BwaGd15TS3cx967beco8CMd1tphUJjVvvAg-CTQnm7hSLh4siRYxF78UbaekandTZFBtxbF_3Ucg15NRSMp0/s1600/0.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sing it, sister<br /></td></tr>
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This running identity is now just so core to who I am, who I've become, and who I will be in my life. Maybe I'll never run a marathon again. Maybe I will. Maybe I'll set other running or non-running goals for myself. But there's a lot that I've learned about the person I am through this process, which I'm going to try to articulate just a little bit now.<br />
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<b>People are asking me if I'm ready. If I'm nervous. </b>Yes, I am ready but I'm not nervous. Of course there will be pre-race jitters (did I pack everything I need? Will my tummy cooperate? Will my quads give out on the Newton Hills?) But the nerves are more manageable now then they were before. Like most things in life, with experience has come confidence. I know what to expect from this race. I know what to do before the race to maximize my results. I know that ultimately what happens that day is as much to the whim of the Weather and Tummy gods [Oh, FYI, side note that I've decided there is a Tummy god who lives in the gut of all runners] as it is to the preparation and training I have put in. So what will be, ultimately will be.<br />
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<b>But that doesn't mean I didn't train to the best of my abilities. </b>I found this marathon training season to be surprisingly challenging on the mental front. This winter was simply atrocious to be training for a marathon. Atrocious. I mean, c'mon now. At points that was ri-god-damn-diculous.<br />
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What I found even more challenging though was the issue of having <i>done this all before</i>. Many times. When marathoning was a glimmer in my eye and when it was new, the concept of running 14, 16, 18, 20 miles was just beyond fathoming. I'd see it on the schedule and be like, "whaaaaaa.....? Noooo....." and then it would be those weeks and I would get nervous in advance and I would gear up and I would talk about it to everyone and I would kind of freak out, and then I would <i>DO IT</i> and it would be this amazing mental rush! I had pushed my body! I completed something new! I had gone above and beyond!<br />
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But then I did it again. And again. And again. And now I find it difficult, especially on bad weather days, to find the mental strength sometimes to find the excitement. Because I <i>know</i> I can run 18 miles solo now. And I know it's going to kind of suck. And I know I'm going to be cold and hungry and tired. And sure, I know I can also find the joy, but I just know the pain as well. <b>Digging deep when you <i>know</i> can sometimes be harder than digging deep into the unknown. </b>It requires a <i>different </i>mental energy to push yourself to be faster, better, stronger....when you know it is achievable.<br />
<br />
I also realized that the <b>social support I receive as a runner provides me a joy I didn't think possible. </b>I've learned to accept and appreciate that support with my soul and to allow it to provide me strength.<br />
<br />
Super sorry that last sentence sounded so cheesy, but it's true. So I'll say it again.<br />
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I accept and I appreciate the support I receive from others. Deeply into my person and into my soul. Now more than I ever have before.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWtiC4SEMT0_5NRiAsg1T73GsX-WPOeznp8TszVivZpPhDO6QscxglHpJKioyzZ3aGXOzU5w8OTRjNO3g8d_Di1fVNqqCXPulatsmS1NxqG-_u5M6EOthP7P8WFDwhREHCiVPw0djo7MzY/s1600/thanksss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWtiC4SEMT0_5NRiAsg1T73GsX-WPOeznp8TszVivZpPhDO6QscxglHpJKioyzZ3aGXOzU5w8OTRjNO3g8d_Di1fVNqqCXPulatsmS1NxqG-_u5M6EOthP7P8WFDwhREHCiVPw0djo7MzY/s1600/thanksss.jpg" height="313" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have met deep and lasting friendships through my running. The community I've found has made me a happier and healthier person. And so many people in and out of this runner community ask me about my running. About how I'm doing. About how I'm feeling. They (inexplicably to me!) read this blog. <b>They care.</b><br />
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And that's pretty darn cool. To have people care about your personal hobby, your personal goal, perhaps your personal <i>struggle</i> so much.<br />
<br />
<b>And the Dana-Farber connection. </b>Wow. Just wow. I feel like raising money again this year for DFMC is like the apex to my running climb. It's the cherry on my sundae. The missing piece to a puzzle I didn't know was uncompleted.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAf1cxK3M05tT2Ll4dDVo2rwjJznqvZHJdzcttTq0Ti9rVmGO6hE2h9vMbJZZGzrmaPxHAENM7GCpupNx1iZppOYyi5hvwwMsK7vNQeiDdPcEaHzwq_1OWBwUuzM9rV7h2XcsancQN80F/s1600/4-DFMC_START_14_JK_216_7545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAf1cxK3M05tT2Ll4dDVo2rwjJznqvZHJdzcttTq0Ti9rVmGO6hE2h9vMbJZZGzrmaPxHAENM7GCpupNx1iZppOYyi5hvwwMsK7vNQeiDdPcEaHzwq_1OWBwUuzM9rV7h2XcsancQN80F/s1600/4-DFMC_START_14_JK_216_7545.JPG" height="210" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>I have found a way for my running to be bigger than me. To provide me purpose. </b>I am overjoyed to announce that as of today I (WE!) have raised $11,736 which will go directly to Innovative Basic Cancer at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. This breaks not only my initial goal of $10,000, but also my astounding fundraising amount from last year. Over the past few years my running has raised -- as of today -- over $23,000 for Cancer research.<br />
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And if you'l allow me the self-indulgence...I am happy to say that I've never felt prouder of myself than I do right now. I've never felt more certain that I did something well, something right, and something <i>good.</i><br />
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It's bigger than me just running a race now. It's bigger than any race I could run, walk or -- hell -- <i>crawl</i> next week.<br />
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So when you ask me how I'm feeling and how I'm doing and if I have a time goal and if I'm nervous, I say this:<br />
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<b><i>I already did it. I already won.</i> </b>Whether I run it in PR time (which would be nice!) or I stop 50 times to go to the bathroom and end up walking it in 7 hours, I'm happy and I swear you will see me smile when I cross that line.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_jk0PxZowYfsUpQxBjAK3oabMl1-HlZmqrU4oo8yVWTnc1639iN0kB0wUSKpm1nOLs3fiVnOebqFiPqW9YGW96052KYauE0tRqEjJDgtEhyJ2IzlTnXn3bpbVmsdZ21_8oQ4D8XAYTG5y/s1600/boston2bmarathon2bline+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_jk0PxZowYfsUpQxBjAK3oabMl1-HlZmqrU4oo8yVWTnc1639iN0kB0wUSKpm1nOLs3fiVnOebqFiPqW9YGW96052KYauE0tRqEjJDgtEhyJ2IzlTnXn3bpbVmsdZ21_8oQ4D8XAYTG5y/s1600/boston2bmarathon2bline+(1).jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've found away to connect my passion for running and my passion for cancer research and to do it in a way that makes me as a person feel physically and emotionally happy. If anything could make a person feel hashtag #blessed....it's gotta be this.<br />
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Thanks for continuing to be a part of my journey.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyuMRBvQoIgoSL38PgNunvPfEYWahn2eQF0Ovjj1hS3aIKAfpj6qelXY5Z4EB7iXynV4z2FkmxUF1trHgTllnrMtX3NKHoZ7MEozX7DhfP3RRTTfdn2YTcYQhths0jAfK7VUS5sXe0nnRM/s1600/thankful_quotes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyuMRBvQoIgoSL38PgNunvPfEYWahn2eQF0Ovjj1hS3aIKAfpj6qelXY5Z4EB7iXynV4z2FkmxUF1trHgTllnrMtX3NKHoZ7MEozX7DhfP3RRTTfdn2YTcYQhths0jAfK7VUS5sXe0nnRM/s1600/thankful_quotes.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>If you'd still like to donate or pass this along, here's the link! </i><i><b><a href="http://rundfmc.org/2015/merig">rundfmc.org/2015/merig</a></b></i></div>
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<i>You'll notice I've raised the goal to $13.1K which would make each mile I run worth $500. Can we get there??? </i></div>
Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-13847570527578357712015-04-06T16:40:00.002-04:002015-04-06T16:40:40.080-04:00Flywheel vs. SoulCycle: My Take On the Matter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc6FhsGdV6Rslkpqg0fwvFIBBb1ZOEpdA55uTnabgj9cCU69AxbRJUVzYf5zbdcW4TDvEuegKRlj4RVpsQZipmsTs_gNDpyRViarzmTu2KqL-HlNvk1LSVfQKUr5uc_ACuUzImYyLKdTRt/s1600/download.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc6FhsGdV6Rslkpqg0fwvFIBBb1ZOEpdA55uTnabgj9cCU69AxbRJUVzYf5zbdcW4TDvEuegKRlj4RVpsQZipmsTs_gNDpyRViarzmTu2KqL-HlNvk1LSVfQKUr5uc_ACuUzImYyLKdTRt/s1600/download.png" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Ezf83pzmoFMH03wDRocCda3qVeCy-4X_pDA8ey5j3EfSrjtpfpMfeeZK_xR5g-vWFTpV9V2VTG0sFDI8L6Z7KE0c9cjzWD87kLvx_Wi5N3fDijxbWS4jeS1IQbifFd2iLtHEgHvcg-DF/s1600/download+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Ezf83pzmoFMH03wDRocCda3qVeCy-4X_pDA8ey5j3EfSrjtpfpMfeeZK_xR5g-vWFTpV9V2VTG0sFDI8L6Z7KE0c9cjzWD87kLvx_Wi5N3fDijxbWS4jeS1IQbifFd2iLtHEgHvcg-DF/s1600/download+(1).jpg" height="153" width="200" /></a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">VS.</span></b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Note: My blog graphics skills are second to NONE. To none.</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<br />
I didn't think I liked spinning classes. I had tried them before and was left feeling unimpressed in the mind and sore in the butt. Granted, these classes were usually in old bikes, in old NYSC gyms, but still. Butt sore and would #RatherBeRunning.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT5pCqpdiBeQkVq8Ww3Zw97yIrN8fjGPvHovMwShAZYG1yLZNfQtmJwNBosu7bp4a4Tb1jzdV9AF8S01lsVqqDqA24aymibC-fNHDJs1uI2-N1dm-ng46OFZEVg69fok_DxBjZtMCz-gEH/s1600/wikedwitchridingbiek.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT5pCqpdiBeQkVq8Ww3Zw97yIrN8fjGPvHovMwShAZYG1yLZNfQtmJwNBosu7bp4a4Tb1jzdV9AF8S01lsVqqDqA24aymibC-fNHDJs1uI2-N1dm-ng46OFZEVg69fok_DxBjZtMCz-gEH/s1600/wikedwitchridingbiek.gif" height="216" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'll get you my pretty....</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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About a year ago <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/12/review-first-timers-visit-to-soulcycle.html" target="_blank">I tried SoulCycle</a> and I actually conceded to liking it a lot. I even went back a second time. It was quite enjoyable.<br />
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But then, at the urging [read: berating] of friends, I tried FlyWheel. And oh my goodness, you guys. I am obsessed.<br />
<br />
I realized that there is a strong reason for why I liked FlyWheel whereas I have other friends Soul obsessed. There's some key differences between theses two trendy boutique studios which I wish I had known in advance and which I feel like may be helpful for you.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Ezf83pzmoFMH03wDRocCda3qVeCy-4X_pDA8ey5j3EfSrjtpfpMfeeZK_xR5g-vWFTpV9V2VTG0sFDI8L6Z7KE0c9cjzWD87kLvx_Wi5N3fDijxbWS4jeS1IQbifFd2iLtHEgHvcg-DF/s1600/download+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Ezf83pzmoFMH03wDRocCda3qVeCy-4X_pDA8ey5j3EfSrjtpfpMfeeZK_xR5g-vWFTpV9V2VTG0sFDI8L6Z7KE0c9cjzWD87kLvx_Wi5N3fDijxbWS4jeS1IQbifFd2iLtHEgHvcg-DF/s1600/download+(1).jpg" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>Let's start with <a href="https://www.soul-cycle.com/" target="_blank">SoulCycle</a></u></b></div>
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<b>Class Structure: </b><br />
45 minute classes on the bike. One song (towards the end) using light hand weights for your arms. Lots of choreography (i.e. bike push-ups! side-to-side! up and down! tap it back!). All about doing the movements "together, as a community."<br />
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<b>Vibe: </b><br />
Awesome music. Dark. Candles. Cool quotes on the wall to make you be like "yeah! go me!"<br />
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<b>Their Description:</b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="line-height: 19.5px;">At SoulCycle we believe that fitness can be joyful. We climb, we jog, we sprint, we dance, we set our intention, and we break through boundaries. The best part? We do it together, as a community. </span><span style="line-height: 26px;">SoulCycle doesn't just change bodies, it changes lives. With inspirational instructors, candlelight, epic spaces, and rocking music, riders can let loose, clear their heads and empower themselves with strength that lasts beyond the studio walls.</span></i></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihF51wlm-O9kT6kvzZsKhzBNd4rBqIB5JIvKn58ffAJcwCodi9RW1XHkIjT-BgsqFx3yVbs2E-SAmCOMS1oh-2ZZYCTzBwgxZrypvhQXC7fRzXCsLcMqjyXmITfQuie2QhyphenhyphenC9Wf2v9J691/s1600/soulcycle-kimmy-hed-2015.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihF51wlm-O9kT6kvzZsKhzBNd4rBqIB5JIvKn58ffAJcwCodi9RW1XHkIjT-BgsqFx3yVbs2E-SAmCOMS1oh-2ZZYCTzBwgxZrypvhQXC7fRzXCsLcMqjyXmITfQuie2QhyphenhyphenC9Wf2v9J691/s1600/soulcycle-kimmy-hed-2015.png" height="223" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anyone see the SpiritCycle Kimmy Schmidt parody? It was glorious. You should be watching (and probably have finished) Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt by now. Get on it.</td></tr>
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<b>The Bikes: </b>You can reserve your bike in advance when you book the class (no need to rush in early to grab one!) The instructors and staff are great about helping you set up if you need. Light hand weights are kept in holders on the bike. You adjust the torque (i.e. tension) with a knob and you ride based on feel.<br />
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<b>The Money</b><br />
First-Time Class = $20 (includes shoes)<br />
Regular Class = $34<br />
Shoes = $3<br />
Water = $2<br />
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<b>My Take: </b><br />
Soul Cycle's description is totally accurate. It's all about <i>together</i> and <i>community</i> and <i>setting intentions. </i>And is kind of where they lose me and gain others. I think it's a very cool concept, the idea of fitness community. And I've definitely found that with <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/08/what-is-this-november-project-thats-all.html" target="_blank">November Project </a>(with which I'm totally defunct lately! My B!)<br />
<br />
I got a phenomenal workout at Soul, but the vibe wasn't entirely for me. There's a cult-ish element to it which -- like all cults -- is probably only fun if you are in it. Being a cult outsider never seems as fun as being a cult <i>insider. </i>Also, there's a lot of choreography which I did feel like was distracting me from perfecting my form and maximizing my workout. I'm sure after many classes I'd feel differently, but I felt a little uncomfortable for a lot of the class. And the other big matter is the money. It's steep! Very steep! And to not include shoes? Big miss from my perspective.<br />
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Frankly, if I want the SoulCycle vibe I'll pay for a yoga class or I'll go to November Project for <i>free. </i><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHfakK5vXsmc-YfzSTQ6MpvFaEp2zjx9zhCC0YD2bTxnMDacB7aDpHYr5Dd6w-qQjLmzUuk7YaeIptwVGaUc9-QiGky9a-O17ZTkBQPPfp1wKveHJVGf1hx9FEL8FDjTqBaBEmgn3UrrGI/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHfakK5vXsmc-YfzSTQ6MpvFaEp2zjx9zhCC0YD2bTxnMDacB7aDpHYr5Dd6w-qQjLmzUuk7YaeIptwVGaUc9-QiGky9a-O17ZTkBQPPfp1wKveHJVGf1hx9FEL8FDjTqBaBEmgn3UrrGI/s1600/download.jpg" height="216" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wheeeeeeeee<br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ia2nTCSZR58VWpKgN7gmEdMvyzi2J7KXYumhCQsRT3YfZv5-tf4i6jq9C7P9C6tt-2QQuzxUSpP024lToQGL8GujYtiXht-XXwzCovf1ZLbLMO-aPfRRvJ7yst5F-CACUyUPc5vCEdes/s1600/buy_flywheel_logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ia2nTCSZR58VWpKgN7gmEdMvyzi2J7KXYumhCQsRT3YfZv5-tf4i6jq9C7P9C6tt-2QQuzxUSpP024lToQGL8GujYtiXht-XXwzCovf1ZLbLMO-aPfRRvJ7yst5F-CACUyUPc5vCEdes/s1600/buy_flywheel_logo.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Now to <a href="http://www.flywheelsports.com/regions?destination=homepage" target="_blank">Flywheel</a>:</b></div>
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<b>Class Structure:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Usually 45 minute classes on the bike. Like Soul, one song towards the end on the bike is dedicated to arms and you use a light weighted bar (that's stored also on the bike itself). Focus on riding hard and achieving personal bests. Also choreographed somewhat to music.</div>
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<b>Vibe: </b>Great music. Dark room. No candles. Less spirituality and more "get your ass in gear."</div>
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<b>Their description:</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>The workout that offers a chance to achieve something more. The step up onto a custom engineered bike. And ride as hard as you dare.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Our instructors lead the way, suggesting target resistance levels and RPM's to strive for. But YOU decide exactly what's right for you by controlling the technology on your bike. And your performance stats are made available in your private account on our website.</i></span></div>
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<b>The Bikes:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here's the key difference, and it's highlighted in the description as well. Like in Soul, you reserve your bike online. But <i>unlike</i> Soul, your bike has a screen that shows you your exact speed and torque so you know where you are in the ether of bike riding. What's better is that since it's tracked on the screen, you can track it later on an app and see your progress over time (I've taken 3 classes and I'm improving each time!) </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsUNR-uFv6R-QSfZZC3WceOCIpJsNFuF87Mi6S6dNHYFmzqQrQlm8S0xE-BO3K13vD28JkTdHLg0SD2PpJOPj5TnZNxgp5rDZiAUcAnu2RVKt4tFXEvf7GVTyfzuWs-gQMBErfhRhS1LcT/s1600/071612-Flywheel-Interiors-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsUNR-uFv6R-QSfZZC3WceOCIpJsNFuF87Mi6S6dNHYFmzqQrQlm8S0xE-BO3K13vD28JkTdHLg0SD2PpJOPj5TnZNxgp5rDZiAUcAnu2RVKt4tFXEvf7GVTyfzuWs-gQMBErfhRhS1LcT/s1600/071612-Flywheel-Interiors-1.jpg" height="247" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ChicagoNow.com</td></tr>
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You can also opt in to the "TorqBoard" which -- periodically in class -- will show how you are performing in relation to the others in the class. If you're not crazy competitive like I am, absolutely you can not show up there (and many don't). If you're a maniac like me? Well, ride....and compete...and do <i>awesome.</i></div>
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<b>The Money:</b></div>
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First Class: Free!</div>
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Regular Classes: $34/Ride </div>
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Shoes: Included</div>
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Water: Included</div>
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Bananas & Apples: INCLUDED</div>
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<b>My take:</b></div>
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No contest. FlyWheel for the win. I like that you can track your progress in an app. I like that it's competitive. I like that there are free bananas.</div>
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The biggest win is honestly instead of an instructor saying "turn the knob a full rotation," at FlyWheel she can say "Your range is 30-35 torque." Okay. I get what that means. And it's helpful to know if I'm struggling at the low or high end of that. Or to know that next class maybe, just maybe, I can push myself to 36. I like the exactness of it and the competitiveness of it. But I can see how others may not. If one was a more "go with the flow" individual, one might not like it. I am...it turns out....a crazy person who likes to know if I am at 80 vs. 82 RPMs. #Important #Psycho </div>
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So ultimately you should decide for yourself. Both studios are really nice, with very helpful staff. Both studios have great locations, including the UES (perk!) and locations country-wide. Both studios will give you a killer workout.</div>
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<b><i>So what do you think? Do you agree? Do you Soul? Do you Fly? Do you....care?</i></b></div>
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<br />Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-65244681692743895232015-02-16T00:46:00.003-05:002015-02-16T00:46:50.741-05:00Cuz You're Hot, Then You're Cold....I hope everyone had a lovely Valentines Day / Galentines Day / Saturday this weekend. I know I had a delightful time with activities spanning from running 16 miles to having drunk brunch to singing showtunes at a piano bar to eating Wave Lays and crying to Steel Magnolias <i>and</i> Beaches in one afternoon. It's been a bold couple of days and I've loved basically every minute of it.<br />
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And about those 16 miles. Yep, I ran 'em. This spring marathon "situation" has kind of hit me full force. Despite the fact that I've trained for many a marathon before, 16-miles in sub-20 degrees never quite gives me the warm and fuzzies, so to speak.<br />
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But when I commit to a marathon, I commit real good and so 16 miles it was. I did a favorite route I figured out a couple of years back in which I run from my Upper East Side apartment down 1st Ave, cut over to the river, run down and around lower Manhattan and up the West Side Highway and into Riverside Park. I exit the West Side through the Boat Basin, cut through the park, and end up at my doorstop. Exactly 16. Boom.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left Shark dances for me!</td></tr>
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I have to admit that although it was cold yesterday and a bit windier than expected, I'm doing my absolute best to just appreciate....the fact that I'm not running in Boston right now. Or attempting to at least. Oy vey! Boston! Yikes!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Credit: WBUR.org</td></tr>
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So many of my DFMC team-mates are in the Boston area and seem to be smiling through this situation (at least on the Facebooks). I'm in awe of that positivity and I try to glean some strength from it even when the wind is biting my face or the treadmill line is long.<br />
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Fundraising is also going great! I'm at <b>$4,461 </b>of my $10,000 goal with 62 days to go! Oh, you meant to donate but forgot, you say? Awesome! Here's the link! <a href="http://rundfmc.org/2015/merig" target="_blank">rundfmc.org/2015/merig </a><br />
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As I ran my 16...cold...solo...Valentine's Day miles, I just kept thinking back to one thing:<br />
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And then after I listened to Lea Salonga KILL IT with the best rendition of "On My Own" ever from the dream cast [oh, never heard the 10th Anniversary dream cast? I suggest you go to the YouTubes and rectify this for the next two hours....] I then reminisced back to another time. And that time was three weeks ago.<br />
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That time I was back in <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2015/02/a-very-miami-pr-race-recap.html" target="_blank">Miami</a> crashing Jen's family vacation. Jen loves to run but she also <i>loooooves</i> the yoga. Loves it. But she doesn't do the stretchy flow yoga, core fusion and power yogas I've <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/10/classes-im-loving-right-now.html" target="_blank">become fond of at Exhale</a>. Jen does hot yoga.<br />
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My feelings on hot yoga prior to Miami could be best described as this:<br />
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Because if you've learned nothing else about me from reading my blog over the years (I can only assume you are an obsessive-compulsive blog follower? yes?) then you know about my copious sweating. And you love that about me. It's adorable and endearing.</div>
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So when I found myself in Miami agreeing to buy a two-pack of hot yoga classes for the days after our races, I was skeptical at best...but also willing to give it a shot.</div>
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The studio we went to in Miami was small, but lovely when we arrived for our first class. I was super nervous and was fully expecting to have to walk out halfway through the class. It was about 90 degrees when we walked in and I was already like:</div>
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But then a miracle happened and no one else showed up other than Jen and I. What was great about this is that I could stop worrying about my sweating upsetting the other customers and just focus on my breathing and my practice. Also, when you're in Miami taking a private yoga class for under $20 with one of your best friends...it's pretty damn tough to complain.</div>
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Jen and I were able to explain to the teacher that we had just ran races and were sore, and he definitely took it "easy" on us and made a very approachable, stretch-heavy class that left me feeling invigorated and much better than when I walked in. </div>
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It was absolutely a very similar flow class to ones I had taken...but just not. I glanced over at the thermometer at one point and it was over 100 degrees. I was, like, super impressed by myself for handling that level of heat and not fully combusting. And I was also thinking, wow, I am basically a yoga master. But then Jen explained that classes can actually get a lot hotter than that, and that this was a good "introduction." Oh.</div>
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We went back again the next day and it was slightly hotter and had more people in the class. The instructor was different from the day before, but I liked her as well. Neither instructor was overaly "spiritual," focusing much more on the physical form than the mental -- which I appreciate much more personally (although I respect so much those who are able to truly focus during classes and find spirituality! I'm just not one of them...)<br />
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Hot yoga is challenging. Every move from "regular" yoga is just that much more difficult and requires that much more energy when you're hot. Plus, this teacher added in a lot of moves I'm familiar with from power and core fusion yoga, including chataranga push-ups, lots of chair pose work, and even some ab work at the end. I like doing all of that stuff, but never had done so in the fiery inferno of Hell's fury.<br />
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Halfway through I was <i>dripping</i> and actually had to take my shirt off exposing my midriff. And I never do that. Never. Ever. I've never been that girl.<br />
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And please keep in mind we were in <i>Miami. </i>People looked <i>goooood </i>(as compared to my white tummy that hasn't seen daylight or sit-ups in months...I glowed like a full moon!) But I was like, you know what? I'm hot. And not in a Mila Kunis way. Bur rather in a "I am burning alive" type way. My shirt had become basically a useless wet shred of cloth at this point. And I wanted to focus on class and not the grossness.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bringin' it back to the blog title. Get it? See? SEE?!</td></tr>
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And so, full moon midriff all abouts, I vinyassa-ed and I downward dogged and I warrior one and two-ed and I did all of these things while in a sauna.<br />
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For sure I was able to go deeper into stretches, and I do think that the heat kind of necessitates you taking yoga breathing seriously and focusing on that breathing. You know. To keep you alive. Because you are going to burst aflame if you don't.<br />
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I am glad I had a full cold bottle of water with me, and I needed to eat a protein smoothie immediately after. The only parallel feeling I've had after a workout recently was<a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2012/12/cross-training-review-of-barrys-bootcamp.html" target="_blank"> Barry's Bootcamp </a>where you just depleted and fully worked out after the session. This is absolutely a draw for many who want a "good" workout and nor just a normal yoga flow, and I get that.<br />
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Would I run to go to hot yoga every day? Absolutely not. And I'd 100% want to make sure I was comfortable with the studio before trying again here in NYC. And I'd be very careful wearing the bestest wicking clothes ever. But I'm open to it, I suppose. I was able to touch my toes during hot yoga, which I normally can't do. And I assume the calorie burn was exquisite (although that's frankly not my main goal in yoga).<br />
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I'm glad I tried it, and I'm really glad that my first experiences were overall positive ones.<br />
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<b>Do you do hot yoga? What do you think about it? </b><br />
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<br />Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-12413436744740136122015-02-04T17:57:00.005-05:002015-02-04T17:57:47.600-05:00A Very Miami PR: Race RecapA couple of weekends back I went to Miami with my friend Jen to root her on as she conquered the Miami Marathon. I did the Miami Half Marathon as part of my Boston training...but was also secretly trying to PR!<br />
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As faithful followers of MeriG will well-remember, <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/02/miami-recap-part-ii-palindromic-finish.html" target="_blank">Miami is where I #actually ran my first marathon</a>. Rooted on by co-#1 fan Betsy, I conquered that race and was able to complete something that was an 18 month journey in the making.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Officially a marathoner!</td></tr>
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I had always wanted to come back and do the half since -- quite frankly -- the first 13 miles of this race are <i>far</i> more exciting than the back half. The full has far fewer participants, and the course (which I'll describe in a moment) definitely peaks in the beginning leaving you a bit-lackluster when you need the motivation most.<br />
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What was great about going back to Miami this time was that I got to have the experience with Jen. I've written about "Roomie" Jen before. We were Freshman year roommates at Brandeis many moons ago and have been close friends ever since. Jen introduced me to health and fitness in many ways, and living with her was something that I will cherish forever. Today she is a doctor with a hubby and three kids, and our lives pretty much couldn't be more different. But our history and our mutual love of running keeps us connected. It's pretty beautiful, actually.<br />
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Jen's parents live in Miami, so I tagged onto their family vacation for this little race.<br />
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After arriving Friday night, Saturday was spent in race prep mode. Jen and I did a little shake-out run in the morning to get the muscles moving and then went to a yoga class at a random studio in her parent's neighborhood. I don't want to talk crap about the class....but actually I do. It was pretty bad. The teacher just obviously was not properly trained, and rather than a nice flow class (as advertised) he instead tried to have us hold awkward, random, and <i>difficult</i> poses without really leading up to them in any way. Not only was it not relaxing, it actually felt kind of downright <i>dangerous. </i>So Jen and I kind of stretched on our own to not risk injury and that was that. Afterwards, we headed to the expo to get our bibs.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and the Roomie. She's tall.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love how you can personalize your bibs for this race!</td></tr>
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After dinner with her family, we were off to bed as early as we could for our 3:30 am wake-up call. Oh, did I forget to mention that the race starts at 6:15 am? Yup. Miami gets hot, it turns out. So you want to start early. On this particularly day, however, we totally lucked out. The weather for the run was low 50s, sunny, and zero humidity. Pretty rare and pretty freaking amazing.<br />
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Although I tried to be cool about it, I had been craving a Miami PR. I've been doing a lot of strength and speed training, and I was ready to roll. However, once never knows what the race gods throw at you. So seeing that weather forecast made me nervous. Because with the combination of the stellar weather and the fact that Miami is a <i>very</i> flat course...I now knew that I had all the tools to make me capable of PR. If my legs (and tummy) would hold out...<br />
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We arrived at the start about 20 minutes before the gun went off. It was pretty cool. And by that I mean it was cold out but I was pretending to be warm because I am a NEW ENGLANDER AND I AM IN MIAMI. But for reals it was cold.<br />
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And then, we were off! I wished Jen well and then we parted ways so she could be Speedy Gonzalez for 26.2 and I could be...Speedy MeriG for 13.1.<br />
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Even though you have to wake up at an ungodly hour, there are benefits. The key benefit being sunrise over the long bridge to Miami Beach. I tried to snap some moving pics, but these truly don't do justice to the beauty of these miles.<br />
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Miles 3 through 10 are basically around Miami Beach. Very cool. And then you run back over bridges to Miami to finish near the starting line. The full marathon loops down south for several miles before coming back along the coast and back and forth over some causeways before finishing in the same spot.<br />
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I felt great for the first 10 miles and was totally on pace not only for a PR...but for a big PR. I was fighting against a 1:55:56 and I was pacing -- according to the math racing through my head -- to something like a 1:53 or 1:54. Nutty.<br />
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At mile 11 I felt a twinge in my knee. Ow.<br />
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And then my knee kind of seized up. Oyyyy.<br />
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But by this point I knew that even if I ran "just" 9ish minute miles I could still PR. I stopped for a few seconds and stretched, and then I said to myself, "girl. Do this. Do this now." And I was off.<br />
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My gait looked something like this:<br />
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And I wasn't sure I was going to make it without walking the last mile. But I focused on my breath, on my mantra (an uninspiring "You will be so pissed if you don't do this." Yep. That was my mantra), and on putting one foot in front of the other.</div>
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And then I saw the finish. And I looked at my watch. And I saw the finish. And I looked at my watch. And by golly...I was going to PR. I ran under the Finish Banner like this:</div>
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And my time was 1:54:40 -- a solid PR and with a busted knee! I was so, so happy and proud of myself for this accomplishment.</div>
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I recovered in the finish area and posted on the social medias and called my parents to brag (because -- let's be real -- they would have thought I was pretty amazing if I had just stayed home and eaten a bagel). And then I was able to see Jen come in at an amazing 3:50 for her marathon. Here she is lookin' like, "hey! no big deal! 'bout to finish me a marathon!"</div>
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Before I leave you, I have a closing thought: Reader, please keep in mind that my first half marathon in Brooklyn in 2008 was a 2:22 finish. That's slightly under an 11-minute mile.</div>
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Over the course of <b>seven </b>years I have trained and tried and educated myself and really worked at this. And it's that effort that has brought me to 1:54:40, which is an 8:45 minute per mile average pace.</div>
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If that's not a gratifying stat? I don't know what is. </div>
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Teaser for my next post: New things I'm trying. Hot yoga in Miami...and FlyWheel in NY. More to come!</div>
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Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-85573788324499594372015-01-19T18:19:00.001-05:002015-01-19T18:19:10.491-05:0019 Days Down. 90 To Go.Greetings from the end of a chilly long-weekend. I am in week 3 of my Boston Marathon training plan and we are exactly three months from the starting line. Training for a fourth marathon in three years is interesting in a few ways (and -- please let's not forget -- this is the sixth marathon I have actually trained for...) It's interesting because I know what to do. So much of running <i>any</i> distance for me before it was something I did was the <i>unknown. </i>How will my body react? What should I eat? What should I wear?<br />
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It's these questions that I used to blog about over the years as I discovered my way through the answers to these questions. How will my body react? <i>Questionably and sweatily. </i>What should I eat? <i>Lots of things. Things before, things during, and things after. Not so fast, dairy. </i>What should I wear? <i><a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/02/race-recap-coldest-run-ever.html" target="_blank">All the clothes</a> in the winter. <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2012/12/ok-first-things-first.html" target="_blank">None of the clothes</a> in the summer. </i><br />
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And I think because most of my running questions have been figured out and the kinks have been ironed out, somehow that translates to others as, "oh, this must be a piece of cake."<br />
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Sorry, kiddos. Cake it is not.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mmmm. Cake.</td></tr>
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Many aspects are easier with the information I've amassed about my body and what schedule works for me. And because I spend more money on my running clothes than on my clothes clothes, I'm actually quite comfy in most weather situations.<br />
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But running 10 miles is still running 10 miles. And running 16 miles is still running 16 miles. That's still happening and there's no amount of information or practice or uncertainty that shortens the distances. I think. Although Google Maps may be working on it. I don't know. I still haven't upgraded my iphone operating system, so I can't be sure.<br />
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So now I focus not on figuring out everything from scratch, but on what I can do to enjoy the experience more and to get just a little bit better. Fundraising is actually a big part of that, because knowing that I have the support of family and friends from all areas of my life truly provides a mental and emotional boost to get me through the tough training days. <i>[And thank y'all, it's been going great!!]</i><br />
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Fixating on <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/10/classes-im-loving-right-now.html" target="_blank">my cross-training</a> as much as mileage has been a great physical boost. Because of the more muscles and the more flexibility. Turns out that despite squats being the <i>worst</i>, they make your legs stronger and evidently stronger legs make you run faster. Crazy. Who knew.<br />
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And finally, the biggest and most helpful and amazing addition to my running life....podcasts. You heard me. Podcasts.<br />
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Oh, how into podcasts I am!<br />
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I have been a podcast dabbler for some time now. I blogged about <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/05/merigs-favorite-things-vol-2.html" target="_blank">RadioLab as part of a Favorite Things</a> post a million years ago, but now I'm in deep in terms of internet radio listening. Serial (<i>duh). </i>RadioLab (<i>duh). </i>But so many more. Pop Culture Happy Hour. Freakanomics. Ted Radio Hour. Stuff You Didn't Learn In History Class. Invisibilia (<i>new and diggin' it). </i>So basically while I run I also learn about everything in the world and become the smartest and most interesting person ever. It's a win win.<br />
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If you have suggestions of shows, please send them my way. I have many hours that I would rather spend hearing other people's thoughts than listening to my own. Trust me.<br />
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I feel like there's a life lesson in here somewhere with the marathon training becoming more comfortable over time. Something about the scariness of the unknown being more difficult than the actual task at hand. And how the thing you might dread or be totally scared of becomes something more routine and familiar and that makes you really happy. And you might learn a lot of things on the podcasts.<br />
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So you should also sign up for a race or a new hobby or try something new because...someday you might love it too. Yes. Yes that's it. Nailed it, MeriG.<br />
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I made a New Years Resolution a few weeks ago to enjoy the process of running. And 19 days in I hope you don't mind me saying that I believe I'm killing it in terms of this particular resolution.<br />
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I'm finding that I can relish the run or the workout even with I struggle to find that same positivity and <i>presence </i>in other areas of my life. I guess true balance would have that attitude spread throughout the world that is MeriG...and I'll work on that. But for now I'm just enjoying being "in the know" when it comes to my running, to sharing a bit of that knowledge with y'all, and just enjoying the run. Because even if I don't feel positive always myself (and can ya believe it... sometimes I don't!), I'm sure there is a Ted Radio Hour focusing on the subject. And that's close.<br />
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<b><a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/11/the-official-announcement-were-going.html" style="color: #4646d6; text-decoration: none;">I am running the 2015 Boston Marathon with the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge</a>! I have raised $3,811 towards my goal of $10,000 for the 2nd year in a row! Find our more or donate here: </b><a href="http://rundfmc.org/2015/merig" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.runDFMC.org/2014/merig</a></div>
Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-12176284652431230672014-12-29T15:49:00.000-05:002014-12-29T15:49:57.043-05:00In With The NewIt's been a while since I posted to <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/11/the-official-announcement-were-going.html">announce that I'd be once again running with the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge</a> and fundraising with a goal of raising $10K for cancer research. I'm pleased to announce that as of this morning, we have raised $3,291 already! How amazing! Thank you to my amazing friends and family who have helped reach this amazing milestone.<br />
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I officially kick-off my training schedule on January 1st, with 108 days to go before I hit the course in April! In honor of this milestone, please consider making a donation or passing my blog and message along: <a href="http://rundfmc.org/2015/merig">rundfmc.org/2015/merig</a></div>
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Making my marathon training plan begin on the first day of a new year is fitting. Beginning a training plan -- whether it is for your first 5K or for your 4th marathon -- is a perfect example what it takes to successfully achieve any resolution. Embarking on training requires a <b>goal</b>. It requires you to make <b>changes</b>. And it requires you to <b>plan ahead</b> if you want to reach success.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: Reddit</td></tr>
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Whether it's a Marathon or a Run/Walk 5K, I highly recommend considering adding in a goal like this into your life if you have even the smallest interest. It changed my life, and it could change yours...<br />
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So, now that I evidently run marathons all the damn time, my preparation is different from what it once was. Before I spent my time on research, on asking questions and on purchasing gear. Now that I am in a grove and have a closet full of all-weather training paraphernalia, I spend my energy and time focusing on what I'm going to get out of the experience. </div>
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First and foremost, I'll be raising money for the cause I believe in passionately. I want to focus on planning events and "marketing" this cause to maximize my fundraising efforts (whilest hopefully not alienating and annoying those around me!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilt8fYhvteZBJffKfH4YTSKpRx6pk0BVLgRJLjbC5c1AfbsN4N9y5PwCKj_myI2zkk9hTFOagJoOy9ow-iweFg4aHM81JHDuWVyZwf66fdMh1gdT9sbsYF2JkmSsOOxCS3WLl4LqId7EQu/s1600/Facebook+Timeline+Cover+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilt8fYhvteZBJffKfH4YTSKpRx6pk0BVLgRJLjbC5c1AfbsN4N9y5PwCKj_myI2zkk9hTFOagJoOy9ow-iweFg4aHM81JHDuWVyZwf66fdMh1gdT9sbsYF2JkmSsOOxCS3WLl4LqId7EQu/s1600/Facebook+Timeline+Cover+Image.jpg" height="118" width="320" /></a></div>
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In terms of my physical time goal, it would of course be great to PR. My Boston time last year is also my marathon PR of 4:16:53. And that's a great time for me (or for anyone, for that matter!) I don't want to fixate too much, because I find that this can lead to disappointment if for some reason I just have an "off" day. You can train and train and train with diligence and determination. But ultimately marathon day is a bit left to the gods to decide...</div>
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So, yes, I will train for a 4:15 or below and see what happens. But my main goal is to make the training experience one as <b>positive</b> as possible. I want to find joy in my runs. I want to be present in the runs I do alone and to enjoy the company of those I'll run and train with over the next 108 days. I want to revel in the challenge of speed training and hills rather than dread every moment. I want to accept and relish in my weekend nights spent in prepping or recovering rather than cursing them. I want to appreciate how well my body responds to lessening alcohol and fried food intake and how much more energy I have when I eat whole-ly and healthily. I will try, try, try not to cry when I can't eat cheese.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7VpJbrcyWxscXAqcVHbH614Chq8-w72mTU4zIuHoIdfaEpQEI3vuBwcQ8G5Me8ZJ97N43plXWKo1sgq97Nc5y-sKxesnDi20AO8I51-A6cxqd2bIpvjEMrBpxdyiKxxD-mt3WyFZ-QTf/s1600/holey_cheese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7VpJbrcyWxscXAqcVHbH614Chq8-w72mTU4zIuHoIdfaEpQEI3vuBwcQ8G5Me8ZJ97N43plXWKo1sgq97Nc5y-sKxesnDi20AO8I51-A6cxqd2bIpvjEMrBpxdyiKxxD-mt3WyFZ-QTf/s1600/holey_cheese.jpg" height="241" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Holey. Not Whole-y.</td></tr>
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At this point, let me take a moment to stop and acknowledge that this post has taken a turn dangerously close to a bad self-help book and I am aware of it. I want to scoff at myself and say, "Oh girl, stop. Just stop. Do what you do best: Make fun of yourself for heavy sweating and cats." Because I know, it's not like me to be so positive and uplifting. I'm struggling even as I type in this moment. And that's because it's <i>so much easier</i> to focus on the negative and the sarcastic (and frankly so much more fun to write and read about!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPOYxhpjSRPneAYIHhiUgbP7-tHlMBMAH2jUdhULSOIVNlLGzq2JsGadgjRFrhuucKjd34CFc90pNDWxqH-GoWYalnOZD7GuMwmshY2thMjVIFS9jp93jsdDkZPXKLtoyJgcmEHNnLCVQ/s1600/positivitydemotivator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPOYxhpjSRPneAYIHhiUgbP7-tHlMBMAH2jUdhULSOIVNlLGzq2JsGadgjRFrhuucKjd34CFc90pNDWxqH-GoWYalnOZD7GuMwmshY2thMjVIFS9jp93jsdDkZPXKLtoyJgcmEHNnLCVQ/s1600/positivitydemotivator.jpg" height="449" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is more my speed. See more at:<a href="http://www.despair.com/demotivators.html"> http://www.despair.com/demotivators.html</a></td></tr>
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Don't worry, I'm still the sarcastic cat-lady you know and love. I just think I could use some more gratitude to put pep in my step. That gratitude and positivity may lead to more grace and peace. Maybe it will lead to more happiness. Or maybe not. But what's the harm in trying?<br />
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It's a fresh new year. All the demons of the past can be put behind to focus on the future. Or, better yet, to focus on the here and the now.<br />
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<b>What are your goals for the new year?</b></div>
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Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-56968105449631861602014-11-14T21:22:00.001-05:002014-11-14T21:22:04.967-05:00The Official Announcement: We're Going For It Again!It is with enormous pleasure that I officially post on Run, MeriG. Run. to announce that I've made the commitment to run with the 2015 Boston Marathon Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge (DFMC) team for a second year!<br />
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For those of you that have known me or read my blog over the past few years, you've known the journey that led me to running this past April with DFMC. It started with <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/11/part-iii-merig-runs-nyc-marathon-now.html">my dad's treatment at Dana-Farber</a> and ended with what I can pretty much say with confidence was the most <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/06/race-recap-part-2-2014-boston-marathon.html">amazing day of my life</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A proud Dana-Farber patient and his daughter</td></tr>
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Importantly, it led this to have happened:<br />
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<b>$11,298. </b>Awesome.<b> </b>Astounding. Amazing. (And A big thank you again!) The official tally of money raised through the 2014 DFMC team was $8,263,308.05. Over eight. million. dollars. Wow.<br />
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And so, I thought to myself: should this just be a one-time thing? Yes, I loved the training (even in the cold horrible winter!) And, yes, I loved the DFMC community. And, yes, I have never felt better about being able to feel like I was giving back to my world by being able to gather people to raise funding for a cause I truly believe in. And....yes. I loved, loved, loved that amazing marathon. But did I need to do it all again?<br />
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When the application came out for the 2015 team, these were the thoughts running through my head. Perhaps I should focus on a marathon that involved no fundraising. No commitment in that way. No effort outside of the one that will lead me to four months of training and 26.2 miles.<br />
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There are a lot of Marathons to run.<br />
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But then I got an email from DFMC that Darby had passed away. Darby spoke at the <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/05/race-recap-2014-boston-marathon-part-1.html">pasta dinner the night before the Boston Marathon this past April.</a> I wrote about Darby last year because of the impact she had made on me. Dying of cancer, she stood up and she thanked us for what we were doing. She was eloquent, she was inspiring, and she was strong, but she couldn't beat her cancer.<br />
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The email had her speech from that dinner attached. I read it. And then I immediately filled out my application for the 2015 Boston Marathon team.<br />
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100% of funds raised through DFMC go to the Claudia Adams Barr Program in Innovative Basic Cancer Research. This fund is one of the largest and most successful program of its kind, funding the brightest and most creative scientists making basic research discoveries that will transform cancer treatment. <a href="http://www.rundfmc.org/faf/home/ccp.asp?ievent=1115928&ccp=656805">The program has funded numerous major breakthroughs</a>, resulting in improved survival rates and quality of life for <i>thousands </i>of patients. To say I am passionate about this cause would be the understatement of the century.<br />
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Last year, I ran in honor of my father. This year, I run in honor of those currently undergoing treatment or who -- like Darby -- have lost their valiant battle. I have -- again -- pledged $10,000 for Dana-Farber this year.<br />
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The link to donate is <b><a href="http://www.rundfmc.org/2015/merig" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">www.rundfmc.org/2015/merig</a>. </b>I'll try not to annoy you too much as I embark on training once again, and I thank you in advance for your support. Any donation -- be it of your hard-earned money or of the time you take in passing this along to others -- is appreciated and valued. More to come on fun events and fundraising programs to make this year a little spicier!<br />
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In terms of the actual running...? I think I've got this (:::knocking on all the wood!!!:::). But I promise after today to keep keepin' things fun and to find shenanigans to make this blog interesting (?) as I embark officially on my training program after the New Year.<br />
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I'll leave you with an excerpt from Darby's pasta dinner speech this past April. Darby -- with a mere five more months of her life ahead of her -- heroically stood in front of that enormous ballroom and thanked us. She said:<br />
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<i>So, the reason I am here today is to thank you all for what you are doing as part of the DFMC team: </i></blockquote>
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<i>Thank you for training through this horrible weather this winter that most of you endured. It was cold, and snowy, and icy—and those were the good training days. You all worked your way through injuries, aches, and pains to get here… And while I do look at marathon training with a little envy, even I was happy not to be out there for some of the group runs.</i></blockquote>
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<i>Thank you for the support of the DFMC team. Some of the most wonderful people I have ever met are part of this team. They have been by my side through this unenviable journey in ways I could never have imagined five years ago, and are some of my best friends. The broader DFMC community has also been amazing in its support through countless e-mails and texts, running for me, and showing up—at fundraisers, walks, and even chemo sessions. This means so much to me, and for all these reasons and more, DFMC holds a very special place in my heart. </i></blockquote>
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<i>Thank you for running and representing the care provided at Dana-Farber. Some of you have experienced this firsthand and that is why you are here. For those of you who haven’t, Dana-Farber is very different from any other medical experience…and it is extraordinary. As a patient, I have known from day one that I am in the best hands. The entire institution—from the parking attendants to world renowned oncologists, like my doctor, Eric Winer—is organized to put the patients’ needs first, and this is something I feel consistently. This superlative care makes the experience so much more bearable, but, unfortunately, it does NOT cure cancer. </i></blockquote>
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<i>And so, finally, and most importantly, I want to thank you for the $5.3 million dollars—or more!—you are raising to fund research. This is an incredible number, and it is SO needed. As Dr. Benz mentioned, it is more difficult to get public funding today than in the past—especially for investigators new in their careers.And research is yielding results at a faster pace than in the past. Since May, I have been on two FDA approved drugs that were not available at the turn of the century. And just this past Friday, I started on a clinical trial for a targeted therapy that hopefully will be effective for me. This has added almost a year to my life so far – all with drugs not available to my aunt who passed from the disease in the late ‘90s. The pipeline of research ideas is rich and promising; they just need funding. I am confident that by funding researchers—especially young investigators early in their careers—in the future, people in my position will live. <b>How great will that be?</b></i></blockquote>
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With <b><u>156</u> </b>days to go, we have raised <b><u>$200 </u></b>towards my $10,000 pledge </div>
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for the 2015 Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge! </div>
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<b>To donate or learn more: <a href="http://www.rundfmc.org/2015/merig" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">www.rundfmc.org/2015/merig</a></b></div>
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Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-983482456689059922014-10-21T21:07:00.001-04:002014-10-21T21:31:51.368-04:00Classes I'm Loving Right NowAs you may know, Run MeriG Run is a big proponent of running lots, but not <i>over-running</i>. Even in my most crazy marathon training nutso weeks I do no more than 3 or 4 runs a week. In between, I'm a big fan of lots of cross-training mixed in with scattered rest days. Just call me Cross-Train MeriG. Cross-Train.<br />
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I've gotten into a good grove lately with a mixture of a few different classes that I thought I'd share with you. Of course I don't go to each one every week, but I try to mix it up and it keeps things interesting for me so I don't get bored with any one particular workout. If you'd ever like to give any of these a shot, let me know! I'm always happy to have a workout buddy!<br />
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Happy sweating...<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.exhalespa.com/mind-body-classes-core-fusion-yoga">Exhale Core Fusion Yoga</a></b><br />
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<a href="https://96bda424cfcc34d9dd1a-0a7f10f87519dba22d2dbc6233a731e5.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com/exhalespa/MBCF_Yoga/MBCF_Yoga_700x314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="https://96bda424cfcc34d9dd1a-0a7f10f87519dba22d2dbc6233a731e5.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com/exhalespa/MBCF_Yoga/MBCF_Yoga_700x314.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Locations: </b>Exhale has several locations around the city. Fusion Yoga is newish and I've only taken this at Central Park South location (which, along with the UES location are my favorites due to location, locker rooms, and lack of snooty-ness of crowd).<br />
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<b>Cost: </b>In the low $30s I believe...but I buy several 10-packs for $215 through Gilt or Rue La La throughout the year so I never pay full price.<br />
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<b>Their Description:</b><br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.901961); color: #57585a; font-family: Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: justify;">Relax your mind and re-energize your body in this soulful and athletic practice that fuses flow yoga with intense core work for the ultimate mind body experience. Sun-salutations and warrior poses are woven with sequences of isolated thigh, arm, and ab work as you build the heat, then reward yourself with a cooling savasana finish. This uplifting class will unleash your inner warrior leaving you strengthened, stretched, and sweaty! Open to all levels.</span><br />
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<b>My Take: </b>I'm not gonna lie, I'm obsessed with this yoga class. (And you know that it takes a lot for me to be <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/06/running-strength-and-yoga-oh-my.html">obsessed with yoga</a>.) Why do I love it? Well, it is more workout than yoga, for starters. Do you want a lot of chanting and relaxation? Than this will certainly <i>not</i> be your jam. You want chataranga push-ups, planks for days, Warriors that turn into squats and chair poses that last for hours? Or an you want to end with a little core fusion ab workout? Than this is definitely for you.<br />
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The class I go to is 5:45pm Fridays at the Central Park locale and taught by Nicole. She is bubbly. She is sweet. She is supportive and non-judgmental. As promised in the description above, I absolutely left very sweaty. <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2012/07/liquid-awesome.html">(But are you surprised</a>?) Although they say all levels, I definitely would not recommend if you've never tried <i>any</i> yoga before, but you certainly need not be an expert.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.exhalespa.com/mind-body-classes-core-fusion-extreme">Exhale Core Fusion Extreme</a></b><br />
<b>Locations: </b>Extreme seems to only be offered at the Flatiron location. Note that there is currently NO SHOWER (I think they have plans to install...) I had an unfortunate Thursday morning when I did not know this.<br />
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<b>Cost: </b>Same as above<br />
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<b>Their Description:</b><br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.901961); color: #57585a; font-family: Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: justify;">Abolish fat, rev your metabolism, and amplify strength as you move through power stations consisting of high intensity work followed by brief moments of active recovery. This hour of power will incorporate gliders, heavy hand weights, a plyo box, suspension training, cardio explosions and intense core work to push you to your fitness maximum. With a balance of restorative stretches at the finish, this functional, time-savvy, expertly tailored class will take you to the extreme. Sneakers required. For safety reasons, guests are not permitted to join class late.</span><br />
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<b>My Take: </b>So I do love this class, but I will warn you: This kicked my butt!! The class consists of a warm-up followed by five stations. Each station has two exercises. Each of these stations and each of these exercises are super-duper hard. Super. Duper. The way it works is that you do Exercise #1 at the station for 1 min followed by Exercised #2. Then you repeat and do #1 again and then #2 again. And then you move to the next station. There is no break in between and no rest. You do this whole circuit and then start over with each station now having reps shorter than a minute for each exercise. In between stations this second time you have 1-2 minutes of "active recovery" (i.e. more of super-duper hard exercises). This was a two-towel workout for me each of the times I've gone. Consider yourself either warned or pumped up, depending on how you like to roll. Extreme is not your typical core fusion class <i>at all,</i> and I loved it.<br />
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<b><a href="http://exceedphysicalculture.com/?page_id=2037">Exceed Row Plus </a></b><br />
<b>Where: </b>Exceed UES (They also have a Tribeca location, but have never been)<br />
<b>Cost: </b>$32; Class size less than 8 people (so felt worth it to me!)<br />
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<b>Their Description: </b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Museo100; line-height: 19.2000007629395px;">EXCEED: Row Plus is a rowing intensive workout for the entire body. Workouts range from sort and powerful to long and strong, with every variation in between. Although mostly rowing, this class will include complementary movements off the concept2 that intensifies the workout and further develop various muscle groups. This class assists to improves form, endurance and power that will help rowers of all levels.</span><br />
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<b>My Take: </b>First of all, I chose this rowing picture from the internet because the guy just looks so happy and goofy on the rower! He's like, "yaaaaay." Anyways, I digress. When I read the description prior to attending this class the first time, I was confused because I didn't know that a "concept2" is not a type-o, but rather the type of rower used in class. So you are doing -- as they say -- mostly rowing but with complementary movements like kettleballs, TRX, push-ups and sit-ups in between.<br />
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What I loved is that it was a true full-body workout and intense cardio without running. I'm actually considering replacing a running day for my next marathon (teaser alert...) with rowing! The other thing I loved is that the instructor -- Shelly - is really great at improving your form and giving personal attention to everyone. Turns out I had been rowing incredibly wrong until I went to this class. I'd leave row workouts feeling my next, arms and back. If you're doing it right, it's truly an arms, back, abs, and leg workout that is comparable to a long-distance run. Classes UES are 6 am Tuesdays and 7 am Fridays right now and I can be found at either depending on the day and how crazy I feel. Locker rooms are decent with great products, so an excellent pre-work choice if you need to get ready.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.mysportsclubs.com/health_and_wellness/articles/les_mills_body_pump.htm">NYSC Body Pump</a></b><br />
<b>Where: </b>Multiple NYSC locations around the city<br />
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<b>Cost: </b>Free with NYSC membership (of which I have)</div>
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<b>Their Description: </b><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 1em;"><strong>BODYPUMP®</strong>, the original LES MILLS™ barbell class, quickly sculpts, tones and strengthens your entire body! </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 1em;">Great bodies aren't born, they are transformed. BODYPUMP® uses the THE REP EFFECT™, a breakthrough resistance-training formula that leverages low-weight loads and high-repetition movements. The result is that you burn fat, gain strength and quickly build lean body muscle. By challenging all of your major muscle groups while you squat, press, lift and curl, BODYPUMP® is one of the world's fastest ways to get in shape. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 1em;">This class is great for all fitness levels because you choose a workout weight that's comfortable for you. To keep things fresh, the class is updated every three months with new choreography and chart-topping tunes. Get the results you've been looking for. Experience the highly trained instructors and THE GROUP EFFECT that is BODYPUMP®.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://preppyrunner.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/bodypump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://preppyrunner.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/bodypump.jpg" height="229" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: <a href="http://preppyrunner.com/2011/05/body-pump-review/">Preppy Runner's review</a></td></tr>
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<b>My Take: </b>Ok, so before I went to this I was scared. Now I've been probably 15 times and it's not scary at all. The weird/interesting/cool thing about Pump is that there is one soundtrack and one "routine" that all instructors are using for a few months at a time until the next release comes out. Instructors generally do this with you in the front (rather than wandering around the rooms) so you always have someone to watch and guide you through. Each song is a muscle group (squats, biceps, shoulders, back, abs, etc). Most classes are 55 minutes, but you'll notice a few are 45 minutes and cut out two or so tracks. You're using a barball for most of the class, and you'll start with light weights on each side. As you keep building up with repeat visits -- or if you a muscle-y man or lady -- you can go heavier. In between tracks they'll tell you if you should increase or decrease weights for the next track so that you might, as an example, use a heavier weight for squats than for shoulders. I love that it is full-body. I love that it is muscle-building. I love that it is a break from heavy cardio for me. With the pre-programmed workouts it's hard to have a "bad" instructor (although admittedly some are better than others) so that is helpful with my NYSC Passport. I do get a bit tired of the soundtracks by the end of the few months, but it also gives me an opportunity to challenge myself and add on a bit more weight as the workouts become familiar. Overall an amazing complement to my more high-intensity classes.<br />
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* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * </div>
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And, of course, I always have my <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/09/the-gym-class-hierarchy.html">Tuesday am Total Body Conditioning at the 76th St NYSC</a>. I think I've been going to this for over three years. Crazy times!<br />
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<b><i>What classes are you loving right now? How do you cross-train?</i></b></div>
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</b>Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-60028422257714205272014-09-29T22:20:00.002-04:002014-09-29T22:20:48.356-04:00A Killer & Portable Workout: The Deck<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Let's go back in time. Wayyy back to a happy time. A time of joy and carefree wonder. A time where summer enveloped us like a warm blanket and it seemed all our worries and cares were a thing of the past. A time of bliss.</div>
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Let's go back....to six weeks ago.<br />
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The place was Fire Island where myself and nine lovely ladies spent a glorious weekend relaxing and laughing.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizxeOzAewaKGCiMvgtPXjKYoRZLYBaJoMOsb7M9V4jaUR9gbLJNVvCOdff_BR-MJ8D-bnpBMSYYFUGRBEqN5ydTS-XzzF98fXRWmvoRcwnCBgc6A_KCfijUkKOVIzLB95Vjtf2YUyxGoJ9/s1600/group+pic+fire+island.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizxeOzAewaKGCiMvgtPXjKYoRZLYBaJoMOsb7M9V4jaUR9gbLJNVvCOdff_BR-MJ8D-bnpBMSYYFUGRBEqN5ydTS-XzzF98fXRWmvoRcwnCBgc6A_KCfijUkKOVIzLB95Vjtf2YUyxGoJ9/s1600/group+pic+fire+island.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lovely ladies relaxing. And laughing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Now, when my friends and I are on vacation we do a few things really well. Those things -- in no particular order -- are:<br />
<br />
1) Eating<br />
2) Drinking<br />
3) Talking about eating and drinking<br />
4) Sitting on the beach. While eating and drinking.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1dxWqM7rX2dZRyN7UjgywYmtEbJjXR-qQvmxPOShzr1dywtZ7bjibqUOyuPm6ajcKLnZXfS6LQaW6Ar0Y1gfviSVMf5b8Wzgohp2ajXwD_3hRzMyPnwAzrwTb8UgHsFlHnMETyTrvlGv/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ1dxWqM7rX2dZRyN7UjgywYmtEbJjXR-qQvmxPOShzr1dywtZ7bjibqUOyuPm6ajcKLnZXfS6LQaW6Ar0Y1gfviSVMf5b8Wzgohp2ajXwD_3hRzMyPnwAzrwTb8UgHsFlHnMETyTrvlGv/s1600/unnamed.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wavy Lays greeting us in the window</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8oXzbAw9syppWTPjXZ__J-KDETNzvaQ9-PFioeiVOmo3YdDPcElULaHmj0X6krJg1A2_-8NkljnzgjRalz3VOaqKNw2cKpzlHD7Pv3_yyu7SaOG2zktJi7bpO0yhW83cQPr3qu-k_WK9j/s1600/unnamed+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8oXzbAw9syppWTPjXZ__J-KDETNzvaQ9-PFioeiVOmo3YdDPcElULaHmj0X6krJg1A2_-8NkljnzgjRalz3VOaqKNw2cKpzlHD7Pv3_yyu7SaOG2zktJi7bpO0yhW83cQPr3qu-k_WK9j/s1600/unnamed+(1).jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me on the beach...with a drink called a "Rocket Fuel" with my face literally immersed in cheetos. You're welcome, world!</td></tr>
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Fire Island is many things, but good for a nice long run it is <i>not </i>due to it's lack of long unobstructed roads as well as its tendency to produce massive hangovers. With that in mind, on Day 2 of my 4-day Fire Island adventure, I knew I needed a good solid workout. </div>
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But without equipment or a trainer, what's a girl to do?</div>
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With that, I introduce to you all the workout I invented slash found on the interwebs (it was a hybrid...mostly I stole it from the interwebs though) called the Deck of Cards.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOb8V8s_cPC4J7xNeudfaFNnmeg8tPlmPA4FlZxR-8HyMDZQ-x5Gb_NJCypTFXFgSC46ys2-NMnbfaElcKHV60YFOcrch9us3NSVMsLYcRyfXd3oPF8g1gy3jj3potQdJqDLHfsVWkJATl/s1600/Deck-of-Cards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOb8V8s_cPC4J7xNeudfaFNnmeg8tPlmPA4FlZxR-8HyMDZQ-x5Gb_NJCypTFXFgSC46ys2-NMnbfaElcKHV60YFOcrch9us3NSVMsLYcRyfXd3oPF8g1gy3jj3potQdJqDLHfsVWkJATl/s1600/Deck-of-Cards.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
Things that are brilliant about this workout:<br />
<b>1) Extremely portable. All you need for it...is literally a deck of cards. And maybe a mat. </b><br />
The premise is simple. Cards mean different things. You pull eight of hearts and you do eight of whatever hearts is assigned for. Six of spades? Six of the spade exercise. You'll get it in a second.<br />
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<b>2) It is hard. Like...HARD.</b><br />
When I invented this (slash stole it from the internet), I actually saw that maybe half a deck was good for first-timers. I scoffed, but then I sweated and swore. So it was good.<br />
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<b>3) You could do it alone or with a group.</b><br />
I myself completed my exercise alone on the deck of our house while a few girlfriends <strike>laughed at me </strike>coached me.<br />
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<b>4) Customizable. If you want to heavy up on different body areas or on cardio or something it's up to you to design something that works. This can also be a negative if you're not a "self-starter," but -- oh, faithful reader -- I believe in you.</b><br />
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And so, without further ado, here is the workout I created in Fire Island that I call "<b>Deck on a Deck"</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>Hearts = Push Ups</li>
<li>Spades = Sit Ups</li>
<li>Diamonds = Dips</li>
<li>Clubs = Burpees</li>
<li>Kings = 30 second plank</li>
<li>Queens = 10 mountain climbers</li>
<li>Jacks = 20 jumping jacks</li>
<li>Ace = WILDCARD that Betsy got to make up something crazy for me to do (or 20 bicycle sit-ups if you don't have a Betsy)</li>
</ul>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtflLvM5nUKLe9jVxyo74-Z-jm5k43OhADF4ekWqul6aBXymoAdCHNQK0IhDaBzDOjjX8vg_APw1Y11FVG70z_78hwues7GFaIWFYDySTtcuD5fl-jAEqDmHBb2YlMYpQ3k3gxOSk8bQkJ/s1600/betsy+me+photo+strip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtflLvM5nUKLe9jVxyo74-Z-jm5k43OhADF4ekWqul6aBXymoAdCHNQK0IhDaBzDOjjX8vg_APw1Y11FVG70z_78hwues7GFaIWFYDySTtcuD5fl-jAEqDmHBb2YlMYpQ3k3gxOSk8bQkJ/s1600/betsy+me+photo+strip.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Betsy and me. Typical. And Marvelous. #NotImpressed #SaveTheDate</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The workout was crazy for a few reasons. Firstly, I think I had a good little varietal. I'm not sure you were 'supposed' to assign face cards different things, but I did and it worked out splendidly. Secondly, what's crazy is that sometimes you'll pick -- for instance -- 6 of clubs. Six burpees. And then next card is 8 of clubs. Eight burpees! Fourteen burpees!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdDOMaxWWwfedJdIiwuY_yHE9oL4UAwlGQHLCnOIfzbKl7jWeLM3PJ4nfNudfJlvXsyIqLzDszucwsBnhrKOngKetYJbXw7T6XbelX23wjlBwSbEJi9YJ6ZMBo-K8kHuWIVtb6ByGD6Afe/s1600/Count-Von-Count-from-Sesame-Street.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdDOMaxWWwfedJdIiwuY_yHE9oL4UAwlGQHLCnOIfzbKl7jWeLM3PJ4nfNudfJlvXsyIqLzDszucwsBnhrKOngKetYJbXw7T6XbelX23wjlBwSbEJi9YJ6ZMBo-K8kHuWIVtb6ByGD6Afe/s1600/Count-Von-Count-from-Sesame-Street.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">14 Burpees! Mwah ha ha ha.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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It's not meant to be evenly spread out. It's meant to kick your butt. And that it does.<br />
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So, I loved it and I thought you might too. I know I'm going to start carrying a deck of cards with me when I travel "just in case" from now on. If I don't get a workout in, I can always play Solitaire. Or Go Fish if I want to be social.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbDS4U6gFBTcX-ZtKslmxOY9_ddRh1eFyB6IcGgraUxfbx0MqCsHGle7vGoJVaYKQ0DI5t2tZfcbD71hRtOxhg1d_PJQRTT_PjQYAbBowb_5gJblIom9pnUK3VwjDansfYq03REUcPIFA/s1600/funny-pictures-i-wuz-led-unnderstand-dat-in-dis-game-der-would-b-fish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbDS4U6gFBTcX-ZtKslmxOY9_ddRh1eFyB6IcGgraUxfbx0MqCsHGle7vGoJVaYKQ0DI5t2tZfcbD71hRtOxhg1d_PJQRTT_PjQYAbBowb_5gJblIom9pnUK3VwjDansfYq03REUcPIFA/s1600/funny-pictures-i-wuz-led-unnderstand-dat-in-dis-game-der-would-b-fish.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
In closing, here are some potentially helpful links to other blogs and sites with ideas and demonstrations that I may or may not have used as basis for this workout that I "made up."<br />
<br />
<a href="http://fitnowtraining.com/2011/01/deck-of-cards-workout/">http://fitnowtraining.com/2011/01/deck-of-cards-workout/</a><br />
<a href="http://pumpsandiron.com/workouts/deck-of-cards-workouts/">http://pumpsandiron.com/workouts/deck-of-cards-workouts/</a><br />
<a href="http://lifehacker.com/5849412/wednesday-deck-of-cards-workout">http://lifehacker.com/5849412/wednesday-deck-of-cards-workout</a><br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_447250813"></span><span id="goog_447250814"></span><br />
<br />
Happy Decking!Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-6764886129993837532014-09-13T09:27:00.004-04:002014-09-13T09:27:30.803-04:00Mini Race Recap: Run To The Rock 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last weekend I went home to Plymouth to run my 3rd annual <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/09/party-like-its-1620.html">Run To The Rock Half Marathon</a>. It was my hometown race's 20th year, and included a 5K, 10K and the Half, all ending -- you guessed it -- at Plymouth Rock.<br />
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The course was the same as prior years in which I took great funny photos and had a blast despite very hilly terrain. There are no photographs this year, and that is for a reason: I was so, so, so sweaty.<br />
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Not "I am in the midst of running a half marathon and this is normal" sweaty. No. It was 80 degrees and super-duper humid this early September weekend. It was not okay.<br />
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Let me illustrate.<br />
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What I was not:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrRRGZHIIVn8ZNiOdeUABwkKFn4VRG0zUIU1P3-bgMB335gPbZz-wda1okTsOxSpMTBKyoO2Rq0pC1S07EvN5KrRIvPhMhuU9van9RaGXMQoz33HJTy2PmXqeBYtWPn5KMYdG9hwMPhJZ/s1600/doutzen-kroes-sweaty-in-victorias-secret-vsx-workout-clothes-02-530x713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrRRGZHIIVn8ZNiOdeUABwkKFn4VRG0zUIU1P3-bgMB335gPbZz-wda1okTsOxSpMTBKyoO2Rq0pC1S07EvN5KrRIvPhMhuU9van9RaGXMQoz33HJTy2PmXqeBYtWPn5KMYdG9hwMPhJZ/s1600/doutzen-kroes-sweaty-in-victorias-secret-vsx-workout-clothes-02-530x713.jpg" height="400" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was not glistening with a six-pack on what appears to be a trapeze swing. I was not this.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLbloNcdCUZB87T8PXr9tdMbO4D9SUrsFjogS1O5hso6darhIZr32ewkX3R7k27tW6QNlgHWmxyssjBAWjkL7vIhqRqUGCOsP-a1kSATYy7xUs7iO_DvceKkO-JklCyG3xPKV3mdcp0TN3/s1600/sweaty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLbloNcdCUZB87T8PXr9tdMbO4D9SUrsFjogS1O5hso6darhIZr32ewkX3R7k27tW6QNlgHWmxyssjBAWjkL7vIhqRqUGCOsP-a1kSATYy7xUs7iO_DvceKkO-JklCyG3xPKV3mdcp0TN3/s1600/sweaty.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She has the illusion of sweaty, but it's done in a sexy way that somehow makes her prettier. And her mascara is not running. I was not this.<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB6w7eHbsAISyKuoebBeW8HHKGWtvC1Ls563nusa4SyAtO1IzKsinnpQXDfAmG_iTpGDjLQQhuZJRUFO7GsWuL-tBewyUV-h5fO328RdEXPyUQrQKYmbDQOXDCLZKAzz71zFq-PsBFHUgb/s1600/article-0-0C16E1F5000005DC-998_468x370.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB6w7eHbsAISyKuoebBeW8HHKGWtvC1Ls563nusa4SyAtO1IzKsinnpQXDfAmG_iTpGDjLQQhuZJRUFO7GsWuL-tBewyUV-h5fO328RdEXPyUQrQKYmbDQOXDCLZKAzz71zFq-PsBFHUgb/s1600/article-0-0C16E1F5000005DC-998_468x370.jpg" height="315" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halle Berry is sweating but I was not sweating like this.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I took no photos during the race because the sweat had overcome me. Just reaching into my spi-belt to get my phone and <i>swipe </i>felt like a feat no mortal man would be able to accomplish. I was like:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmEgn6eDpTPVnPzVYXJItog6AynpJAzGMT2tKOJ5ZjtOlvs61pntIppZmqnmqUgNvjbf-d_1XX3t0oapm0cHGYXP8fpakoQZY6m0gGYbn5SFn3-A_LDfWE9WTXb__pCtZQkExTXpCFifb/s1600/so+damn+hot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmEgn6eDpTPVnPzVYXJItog6AynpJAzGMT2tKOJ5ZjtOlvs61pntIppZmqnmqUgNvjbf-d_1XX3t0oapm0cHGYXP8fpakoQZY6m0gGYbn5SFn3-A_LDfWE9WTXb__pCtZQkExTXpCFifb/s1600/so+damn+hot.jpg" height="256" width="400" /></a></div>
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And while there were people around me running who seemed just a bit warm, I looked identical to this: </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuk9POsYnMu1IEyr9jVRBY6rjr9eQufJuzpAKCobl6DYm9mSXcoQgXy1_g8dWOY7izuyt4QiGXPKIWuh5Qd6dm3-NqmV9KKwUmoQoUqA-qNYSUJoyIunVHfCXXYj9b_8KN1rysNPG9ELx/s1600/airplane-sweat-sweating.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuk9POsYnMu1IEyr9jVRBY6rjr9eQufJuzpAKCobl6DYm9mSXcoQgXy1_g8dWOY7izuyt4QiGXPKIWuh5Qd6dm3-NqmV9KKwUmoQoUqA-qNYSUJoyIunVHfCXXYj9b_8KN1rysNPG9ELx/s1600/airplane-sweat-sweating.gif" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
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See? No photos needed. You get the idea.<br />
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But I was being smart about it. There were 9 fluid stations, two of which had Gatorade. I drank multiple cups at each. I also had carried Electrolyte pill with me, which I took to combat the glowing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9B9tFv1jqxlQu1G2Tg61v2AABHv4aZV7Rf5IXBUu50d1cBCjXB2sNhvwKvMiXA2_5fV_1QcpUDu9QpjCEqOR2m8Gp-Fv0UC48mL4CltfyWxANOZ6RFyKjF83so9cb-jIAIMlXuXFVBXx/s1600/tumblr_mnny3gjLjx1r4p9nzo1_500.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9B9tFv1jqxlQu1G2Tg61v2AABHv4aZV7Rf5IXBUu50d1cBCjXB2sNhvwKvMiXA2_5fV_1QcpUDu9QpjCEqOR2m8Gp-Fv0UC48mL4CltfyWxANOZ6RFyKjF83so9cb-jIAIMlXuXFVBXx/s1600/tumblr_mnny3gjLjx1r4p9nzo1_500.gif" height="216" width="400" /></a></div>
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I was not running the race for time anyways, but the heat ensured that it wouldn't be a PR day for the course for me (last year was 2:00 flat). I ended up finishing at 2:03:03 which is a 9:24 min/mile pace. Considering the hills and the heat? Not. Too. Shabby.<br />
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My cheering squad, as always, was ready and waiting and doing their duties (holding my banana peels and getting ready with the photography that will <i>never be seen by the public</i> respectively).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqtF3D3UqeuOcfjc2m-VK_JGlZds8_2DZ65Ob_Sa5gSO3HB-vYecUasK4wBtrIIIoVaNzWcWcCjEYJ6BLbLZMb3FmdicbH5gcy8u3NCuR_ysum32sf_UGFV4fxQTOlmJWtGSW4ZR6zaGkw/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqtF3D3UqeuOcfjc2m-VK_JGlZds8_2DZ65Ob_Sa5gSO3HB-vYecUasK4wBtrIIIoVaNzWcWcCjEYJ6BLbLZMb3FmdicbH5gcy8u3NCuR_ysum32sf_UGFV4fxQTOlmJWtGSW4ZR6zaGkw/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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There were probably 30 total people cheering on the course. 8 of them were my parents at four different stops. I was definitely the cool kid in the race and everyone was <i>jealous of me</i>. I do love more and more these small races though. I always say I'm going to do them more as opposed to the NYRR races, but then it's <i>so easy </i>to just roll-on up to Central Park (like I will for the Grete's Gallop in a month!) There is just something so nice and fun about running with a few <i>hundred</i> people as opposed to tens of <i>thousands</i>. It's a different vibe. Not necessarily better or worse...just different. And cuter.<br />
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Now, despite the fact that I sweated out pounds of liquid, I actually felt pretty okay at the race end. The electrolyte pills are expensive little suckers, but if you are a heavy glower like me I do highly recommend you go to a running store and buy some for days like this. It honestly can't hurt and -- in my experience -- it really helps. I saw a few people being taken away by ambulances during the race because humidity and dehydration are no damn joke.<br />
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After the cute little barbecue the race organizers had at the end (benefiting the Boys and Girls Club as did proceeds for the race itself), my parents and I mozied through Brewster Gardens -- one of my Plymouth favorite spots -- towards the car. I looked more presentable so I allowed photographs at this time.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7II8pGcGJqJ4TZYMQFxBONp9sBQo8TYN4CX1JKfGUadwP6y38hFHPobEN-v8li6uNgx2EsAR5G9milX4btsVHp20AdaSkMXvyLokbQgcNUqsl5wuV9BGceWtlI2kLacFJnJsts_Yogv4/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF7II8pGcGJqJ4TZYMQFxBONp9sBQo8TYN4CX1JKfGUadwP6y38hFHPobEN-v8li6uNgx2EsAR5G9milX4btsVHp20AdaSkMXvyLokbQgcNUqsl5wuV9BGceWtlI2kLacFJnJsts_Yogv4/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Proudly display my medal in my Boston Marathon shirt and Pan Mass Challenge hat! Myra is ADORBS.</td></tr>
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All in all it was a great race, and I was excited just to have the opportunity to spend time afterwards with friends and family, knowing all the while that I had completed a ridiculous race that morning.<br />
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Before I leave you, I will leave you with a pretty photograph from one of my morning runs this week on the East River because it made me happy:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLfM8ab6xATUpm4wSD5iRgZkpJPxHyyD8AV8LZfu4v2rri5i-UNeVsVyZmhnpqEOXJbyOoAbYTnXRJlzaauOAJs2a3M_Y0iJHw_IatFwiZ7xEJ2FH4TjCK_qQv9_p0i3X_2Gf6YU-TvcY7/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLfM8ab6xATUpm4wSD5iRgZkpJPxHyyD8AV8LZfu4v2rri5i-UNeVsVyZmhnpqEOXJbyOoAbYTnXRJlzaauOAJs2a3M_Y0iJHw_IatFwiZ7xEJ2FH4TjCK_qQv9_p0i3X_2Gf6YU-TvcY7/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I know mornings are horrible...but once you make it work, it's worth it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><u>And finally, a few things I'm loving today on the interwebs:</u></b><br />
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<b>1) <a href="http://www.salon.com/2014/07/24/watch_a_woman_perform_beyonces_single_ladies_as_a_dramatic_monologue/">This</a>. It is epic and I heart it over and over. </b><br />
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<b>2) The<a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/ryanhatesthis/a-teenager-started-a-viral-petition-asking-his-school-to-let?bftw&utm_term=4ldqpfp#2nlb93"> greatest portrait ever taken</a>. Of all time.</b><br />
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<b>3) I know this happened forever ago, but I'm still obsessed with <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfZFuw7a13E">this badass female Ninja Warrior</a>. Kacy Catanzaro is my hero. She makes me want to be fitter. Like, may to do a pull-up some day. Maybe. Something to work towards at least?</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNiie_SDcYI2ld4dbaVt8MB87xNghCKPK3I-I3ajanIgmJdIXmw_RN6Je0CTA3jG1uCKx0BYiaX-8YvdhTBtpQNd2mAYwVkXRnHaqYRKePlvKzGj1b2qbCFGiSAJy5iZLZvSuOb10cwsa/s1600/brown_cat_pull_ups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNiie_SDcYI2ld4dbaVt8MB87xNghCKPK3I-I3ajanIgmJdIXmw_RN6Je0CTA3jG1uCKx0BYiaX-8YvdhTBtpQNd2mAYwVkXRnHaqYRKePlvKzGj1b2qbCFGiSAJy5iZLZvSuOb10cwsa/s1600/brown_cat_pull_ups.jpg" height="320" width="227" /></a></div>
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<b><i>Question time: How did you enjoy that little last burst of summer we had last weekend?</i></b>Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-40709700047708826612014-08-27T19:17:00.001-04:002014-08-27T19:17:55.611-04:00What is this "November Project" that's all over your Facebook?Great question, <i>everyone I know</i>. Thanks for asking!<br />
<br />
I'll start with some of the most popular other questions I've received for a simple Q&A before I dive in:<br />
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<b>Q: Are you in a cult?</b><br />
A: I don't think so? Maybe? Kind of? Yes. Yes, I am. But you can join!!<br />
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<b>Q: In the <i>morning? Ugh.</i></b><br />
A: Before you <i>ugh</i>, read on.<br />
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<b>Q: How did you find out about this thing?</b><br />A: I had heard about this November Project <i>thing</i> that started in Boston from <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/runners-stories/hugs-sweat-cheers">Runners World</a> a ways back. And it sounded cool, but it was in Boston and I live in New York City. One day in March-ish I was running on the East River as I tend to do in the mornings and saw this group of maybe 20 crazy people. And they were yelling at me to join them. And I was a little scared so I ran away. But then I was intrigued so I went to the interwebs and turns out, November Project had just arrived here!<br />
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<b>Q: How many people are in this thing?</b><br />
A: SO many. So so so many. And it grows every week. The first time I came back in May I think there were 50 of us? Now, we regularly break 100. It's awesome.<br />
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<b>Q: But what <i>is it?</i></b><br />
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Ok, so I'll stop the Q&A format and just start writing from here. But first, for the formal answer to your query, I'll let the<a href="http://november-project.com/"> official website</a> talk for me:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #777777; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;">November Project™ is a FREE fitness movement that was born in Boston as a way to stay in shape during cold New England months. Now present in multiple cities in across four time zones in North America, the movement is using a simple sense of accountability (</span><a href="http://november-project.com/category/we-missed-you/" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2396ea; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">verbal</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #777777; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 22px;">) to motivate and encourage people of all ages, shapes, sizes and fitness levels to get out of their beds and get moving. Our members vary from Olympic medalists, professional athletes, marathoners, triathletes, current and former collegiate athletes all the way to complete fitness rookies and recent couch potatoes just looking to kickstart their healthy life choices. If you think that you’re not fit enough to join the group, stop thinking and come see what the fuss is all about.</span></blockquote>
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In NYC, we meet on Wednesdays on the UES (near Gracie Mansion at 88th and the River) at 6:28am. Yep, 6:28. Fridays are same time, but at locations all over the city (announced that week via social media stuff).<br />
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At the group, we run. You do <i>not</i> have to be a crazy marathon person, but I would recommend being able to do a mile or two comfortably without stopping for you to enjoy yourself. We do more though.<br />
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We also burpee. We push-up. We dip. We dance. Workouts last usually about 30 minutes, but there is a bouncy warm-up before (you heard me) and a group photo after (yep, always!) and announcements, so plan on being there until 7:30 or so.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA95SL6iAfmMFHVy1mMEfVmy9wXmXDPrm7sZhFwRXS55tJmS_YhOkzdJXJs4nX0lig8yI9LUm5VoHKES3STIDJMD-BT1noapNQ1TdAqp37rQENVPbuaNwYs4eCapGJFbUpdxbCv6PPmYuh/s1600/10393740_778283298861596_5814558025536864832_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA95SL6iAfmMFHVy1mMEfVmy9wXmXDPrm7sZhFwRXS55tJmS_YhOkzdJXJs4nX0lig8yI9LUm5VoHKES3STIDJMD-BT1noapNQ1TdAqp37rQENVPbuaNwYs4eCapGJFbUpdxbCv6PPmYuh/s1600/10393740_778283298861596_5814558025536864832_n.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: November Project</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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But you could get that type of work-out at a lot of places, or even on your own. What makes this special? And why am I so freaking obsessed?<br />
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Well I'll tell you.<br />
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So first off, it's freaking free. #FreeFitness, if you're into the lingo (which, obviously, I am). But let's stop being cheap for a moment and talk about the <i>real</i> reason that I love, love, love NP: THE COMMUNITY.<br />
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I hesitate to even tell you more about it, because the only test to if you will appreciate and understand and love this community as I do will be for you to #JustShowUp (yep, we like hashtags a lot). There is hugging. I am a heavy sweater and <i>don't even like hugging that much (shhhh) </i>but I still love it. It is at 6:28am. I am EAGER to get my ass out of bed. There is high-fiving. There is running so hard you want to barf. There are a gazillion burpees (my nemesis).<br />
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But there is also Facebook friending. And positivity abounding (there's even an award <i>dedicated to positivity</i> after every workout!) And smiles. And happiness. And you even get used to the pictures they take of you and kind of look forward to seeing yourself in the album later!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WDw6g3IBljHQOXQvoO-GvsStCcxIl9xxzTbjtNsXFFR6VnWIy-7jPu8N8VFLEBLXjZDWoRvqIYb2kXOtgjk4eG8TIu6YWW5nyx3IbXnIit1uxGyTq7KrAyQs9TxB-0yHPeOdLt-87ckK/s1600/10387620_767694026587190_4394064755253678090_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WDw6g3IBljHQOXQvoO-GvsStCcxIl9xxzTbjtNsXFFR6VnWIy-7jPu8N8VFLEBLXjZDWoRvqIYb2kXOtgjk4eG8TIu6YWW5nyx3IbXnIit1uxGyTq7KrAyQs9TxB-0yHPeOdLt-87ckK/s1600/10387620_767694026587190_4394064755253678090_n.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: November Project</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL8i6L8FUYltvkx4KSdPa8ie2gqJDB3U4O3SJyydPTY190LE3165ssoc-297SwbQNBi_bsBy80yaPdtd2T0ZeiJUOpI7wRGdStJWPnND7burCkfVFZfo-cZF1oafriZTMNtuTAhyLQoLCy/s1600/10543654_778282775528315_310349672330581138_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL8i6L8FUYltvkx4KSdPa8ie2gqJDB3U4O3SJyydPTY190LE3165ssoc-297SwbQNBi_bsBy80yaPdtd2T0ZeiJUOpI7wRGdStJWPnND7burCkfVFZfo-cZF1oafriZTMNtuTAhyLQoLCy/s1600/10543654_778282775528315_310349672330581138_n.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: November Project</td></tr>
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There are social events too. There is always someone in the group down for a happy hour or a group run or some sort of crazy shenanigan. And the organized social event that I participated in? Well, that was just pretty epic.<br />
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In that I ran in a cat mask 4 hours through the city with a group of other crazy people that ended at a bar. And it was something a previous version of me would have maybe made fun of me for. But this new, positive, open-minded me? Well I felt that it was EVERYTHING.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYrGzMkvoKuPVKqtl85KnDe5I4Xfva6AcPtAPVqVnAyUMJc1U2y1_qNvN6p6Kv80-5u0Ohr1eJl5mhyphenhyphenMeys-yNfn5EIg-KuvWiUqZYYaAT9FdNLe3jXsonJWj6A7MsLt7vY6M0fsYvMON/s1600/10013886_10105595422515241_3442341423357116743_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYrGzMkvoKuPVKqtl85KnDe5I4Xfva6AcPtAPVqVnAyUMJc1U2y1_qNvN6p6Kv80-5u0Ohr1eJl5mhyphenhyphenMeys-yNfn5EIg-KuvWiUqZYYaAT9FdNLe3jXsonJWj6A7MsLt7vY6M0fsYvMON/s1600/10013886_10105595422515241_3442341423357116743_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purrrfect running buddy.</td></tr>
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Oh, right. And the shirts. We have this thing called Grassroots Gear. If you show up, you too, can get some. For free.<br />
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And then you will look this bad ass:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNJIGOEirnDvZB9bFt49AjjhyphenhyphenUZ5W611-zAXhaCXpE_W46y7rpvhOBjOmVMsyrzEhs2dOyxfHyQjlphV0sCuylnL2RwQKNUNncWQmSFaqd99dZ3xcjOcx10xkgGxzR4rm7om15WFadhD5i/s1600/10492186_774086079281318_7040004319758346938_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNJIGOEirnDvZB9bFt49AjjhyphenhyphenUZ5W611-zAXhaCXpE_W46y7rpvhOBjOmVMsyrzEhs2dOyxfHyQjlphV0sCuylnL2RwQKNUNncWQmSFaqd99dZ3xcjOcx10xkgGxzR4rm7om15WFadhD5i/s1600/10492186_774086079281318_7040004319758346938_n.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Or at least CLOSE to this bad ass. I can't promise you'll be comparable.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When my alarm goes off before 6 am on Wednesdays I am <i>excited. </i>Because I know I'm about to get a solid workout with a group of some of the coolest, nicest, most amazing people ever. I've met so many wonderful new friends in the past few months, and I know it's just the beginning. And although this might sound cheesy, the positivity exuded is simply contagious. I leave every workout feeling brighter, feeling better, and feeling bad-ass-ier. I <i>love </i>it. I now <i>crave</i> it.<br />
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Ask any of my co-workers that see me Wednesday morning or my friends who I've talked to about this. I am truly in love with this group in a way that I think is kind of rare to find so quickly and seamlessly. I find it's adding not only to my physical fitness level, but also to my social life as well. It's been a wonderful addition to my life as of late, and it makes me happy.<br />
<br />
I feel like I haven't truly answered your questions, but have I piqued your interested even a little bit?<br />
<br />
GOOD.<br />
<br />
I encourage you to follow the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NovProjectNYC">Facebook page</a> or Twitter (@Nov_Project_NYC). If you want more, check out <a href="http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/running-dialogue/boston-november-project-new-york-blog-entry-1.1732978">this from the NY Daily News</a> or maybe this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPfkt8h-gbo">cool piece of cinematography</a>.<br />
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Or, better yet? #JustShowUp. If you're not in NYC, you may just have a November Project tribe near you, so check it out. And visitors are <i>always</i> welcome.<br />
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What's the worst that could happen? You might just fall in love too.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vNqJGFp-KI8MgVi-m7gy9dKdq1r2O45zzq-l179MSvn39t7mC93zdpwljOfdToALSTFnK8PwKAmMNNp8Ql3afFj3Jh6as3Ao9ypmSrZcFHCXImfAy9M0p7_Lcu4jmQwSRQztSrSqaF1s/s1600/10474253_800246063331986_1261751552082834957_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2vNqJGFp-KI8MgVi-m7gy9dKdq1r2O45zzq-l179MSvn39t7mC93zdpwljOfdToALSTFnK8PwKAmMNNp8Ql3afFj3Jh6as3Ao9ypmSrZcFHCXImfAy9M0p7_Lcu4jmQwSRQztSrSqaF1s/s1600/10474253_800246063331986_1261751552082834957_n.jpg" height="307" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Matt Powers, November Project</td></tr>
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Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-60537552070252349922014-08-03T21:37:00.004-04:002014-08-03T21:40:40.332-04:00Back in Action. #PorkBunsWell, friends. It's been quite some time, hasn't it? I've taken a bit of a blogging break post-Boston to allow myself a bit of a re-boot.<br />
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Three marathons in 15 months justifies that, I think.<br />
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I also needed to spend some time being a little more introspective rather than....outro...spective?<br />
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This blog was started as a fundraising tool back in 2011, but also as a bit of an accountability tool. It was a, "Can Meredith actually do this?" exercise in writing. Three years later, we know the answer, and it is a resounding HELL YES, I CAN AND I DID! Which is awesome. But it does lend itself to a rather large dilemma when it comes to my little RunMeriGRun blog.<br />
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While I run a lot and do have a lot of experience with the running, I am <i>not</i> a running expert or coach. And while I take a lot of classes and always strive to get stronger and more in shape, I am not one to be doling out advice on the subject. And, my god, I am <b>DECIDEDLY</b> not an expert on healthy living (cue my lunch today: pork buns, nachos and bloody marys).<br />
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When I started running it was all, like, haha! This is hilarious! That girl thinks she can run marathons!<br />
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Now...welp...not so funny. Because it's happening. In real time.<br />
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Do people really want to read about my 16-mile runs <i>again?</i> And my marathon trainings and races <i>again? </i>I mean, maybe, sure, because I'm damn hilarious. But, god...sometimes I even gross myself out. And, even if you're not repelled by me, admittedly this whole <i>thing </i>becomes a bit repetitive to read once it becomes part of "normal" lifestyle (whatever "normal" is for a marathon runner). And that repetitiveness not only applies to the reader, but also to the writer.<br />
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So that's a very long-winded way for me to say: <i>What the heck should I write about? </i>And, if we go even deeper, <i>should I even keep writing at all?</i><br />
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Well the answer to the second part is clear. Yes, I'd like to keep writing. I enjoy this little augmentation of my running world. I enjoy looking back and I enjoy the awkwardness that ensues when I see someone I haven't seen in <i>decades</i> who can say to me, "So...um...I'd ask how you are...but I think I read it? On your blog?" Delightfully weird.<br />
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But to the former question. I actually think I still have a lot to contribute in terms of my point of view. Running has profoundly changed me over the past five or so years. It's taught me more about myself than any other activity I have ever taken a part of. Running has bonded me closer to existing friends, and it has opened the doors to so many amazing wonderful new ones. It has provided me a social outlet. It's a therapy session. It's made me stronger so that I can do more and different activities that I may have never thought possible (considering that to the end of time I will think of myself as the chubby kid picked last in gym class). And, crucially, running now and forever the only way I have found to long-term sustain my pork buns and nachos lifestyle. Which I will defend to my death.<br />
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A lot has been going on in my fitness slash running world the past few months. I have signed up for my 15th and 16th Half Marathons this coming September and October. I have joined a new, wonderful, weird, amazing group called <a href="http://november-project.com/category/new-york/">November Project</a> that I'm sure you've seen all over my Facebook feed (and which will be the topic of an upcoming post to be sure...so STAY TUNED).<br />
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This is not a healthy living blog. (Unless to you, too, believe that "health" means your one serving of vegetables for the day came in the form of the celery dipped into your bloody mary?) This will never be a healthy living blog. I'm not sure if I even recommend everything I espouse and a nutritionist would have damn heart attack.<br />
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I work out a lot. I run all the damn time. I'm going to continue to do fun races. To <i>fun</i>draise (get what I did there?) for causes I believe in. I'm going to be weird. I'm going to post gifs (because they rule) and probably talk about my cat too much.<br />
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This blog is not just MeriG Running. This is now about how running has become one in the same with MeriG. It's now just part of my DNA in a way I honestly never, ever, in a million years would have said it would have. Just ask the kids who picked me last in gym class.<br />
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This is me.<br />
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Hope you still enjoy. :)<br />
<br />Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-35366707250698587262014-06-02T22:42:00.003-04:002014-06-02T22:42:51.428-04:00Race Recap Part 2: The 2014 Boston Marathon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We left off after my <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/05/race-recap-2014-boston-marathon-part-1.html">amazing Sunday with DFMC.</a> I slept soundly, feeling positive energy from my friends and family wishing me well through texts and online messages. The weather forecast was looking a bit warm, but good (a departure from rain predicted earlier in the week!)</div>
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I woke up Monday morning, April 21, 2014 bright and early. My gracious host Steve drove me to the Boston Common where buses were lined up by the dozens to load sleepy, nervous runners and be replaced by dozens more empty buses. </div>
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We got on the Mass Pike and drove west. For a while. </div>
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<i>We're going to run back. Whoa.</i></div>
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Once I arrived in Hopkington, MA I didn't go with the masses to the runners' village. Instead my friend Abi and I walked 10 minutes towards the starting line to the Dana-Farber meeting area at a nearby church. </div>
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Inside was a veritable marathon runner's heaven.</div>
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There were medical tables with band-aids, vaseline, IB profin, and sunscreen. There was an "arts and crafts" tent outside so you could decorate your race shirt. In the main area, runners buzzed around chatting nervously, taking photos, and drawing temporary tattoos on eachothers' arms. There were quiet rooms if you wanted to relish in silence. There was a TV room if you wanted to watch the pre-race coverage. A fuel table had bagels, donuts, pretzels, candy, water and Gatorade. Bathrooms and port-o-potties abounded. And amazing volunteers staffed it all.</div>
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I had been a bit concerned originally because my bus arrived around 8 and I didn't start until 10:30. But once I saw the oasis of amazingness at that church? All my fears completely vanished.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigGf7EYMnQqxTsWhyTnnKC0GyP4iMBPK7DPMejuR1Txo0OxiNMYEESSYEJATTWxSMRhPLA9uS8ct9XKcJGUSubHihpPJJi8yZ82nXVEC51mbcMRDE7FSOifY5XINfSuhtjV08EyzSvgzv_/s1600/photo+1+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigGf7EYMnQqxTsWhyTnnKC0GyP4iMBPK7DPMejuR1Txo0OxiNMYEESSYEJATTWxSMRhPLA9uS8ct9XKcJGUSubHihpPJJi8yZ82nXVEC51mbcMRDE7FSOifY5XINfSuhtjV08EyzSvgzv_/s1600/photo+1+(4).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Cassie</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrMtTiP8_CNNQBybJMrTzfQYGI-ra_bo4tVEAhELMIt27HBuCxPYH-ue3YUfp2mQdLyONz4st1d6P9-T_5cUT6QBq_9lTZubLGWIOSlw-WK2NymY_rCBBIQuzwYAv4yoyMP_fIf9stGcN/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikrMtTiP8_CNNQBybJMrTzfQYGI-ra_bo4tVEAhELMIt27HBuCxPYH-ue3YUfp2mQdLyONz4st1d6P9-T_5cUT6QBq_9lTZubLGWIOSlw-WK2NymY_rCBBIQuzwYAv4yoyMP_fIf9stGcN/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Abi and Me</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 25th Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team!</td></tr>
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Surrounded by my New York DFMC friends and the amazing positive energy of my teammates, the hours flew by. And suddenly, it was time for Wave 3 to head to the start.<br />
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The 700 Dana-Farber team members were nearly all together in the same starting corral, adding to the excitement. As we marched towards the starting line, the amazing residents of Hopkington and race volunteers cheered D-F as if we were already heroes. It was basically the best parade ever. And we hadn't. Even. Started.<br />
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And then...without much fanfare...we were off.<br />
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<i>So how was the race?</i> Everyone asks me. Well, to put it simply, it may have been the best 4 hours, 16 minutes, and 53 seconds of my life.<br />
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<b>The course. </b>The course is everything a runner who dreams of Boston dreams it will be. It's historic. The bars your read about are out in full force. The terrain is exactly as described, where you're downhill at the beginning and the suddenly after the halfway point...you're not. The Wellesley girls. The BC kids. Cleveland Circle. Kenmore Square. </div>
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Heartbreak Hill. Oh, yes. The hill on it's own is actually not "that" bad (compared to, say, Harlem Hill in Central Park). But that bugger comes after the three prior Newton Hills torture you for miles leading up to it. At mile 20. It is worthy of it's name.</div>
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The course is very tough, especially in the bright, sunny day we experience in April. But the challenge is part of its history and its mystique. It's all there and it lives up to the legend. Just has it has done for 117 years before. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And yet, thumbs up!</td></tr>
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<b>The crowds. </b>Energy like I've never felt in my life. And probably will never feel again. Truly, for 26.2 miles -- without hardly a break at any point -- I felt that city completely focused towards us. Towards me. I high-fived dozens of kids with hands outstretched. I took fruit from strangers (only acceptable during a marathon). I smiled at the hundreds of thousands of people who were smiling. Right. At. Me.<br />
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They cheered until they lost their voices. They held signs that had me laughing out loud. They held signs that made me cry.<br />
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<i>One read: What you're doing here today is IMPORTANT.</i><br />
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They cared. And whenever I reached those points where I felt pain, or I felt like I wanted to stop? Well, they cheered, and I didn't walk. Because I <i>choose</i> to run. And they <i>choose</i> to watch and cheer. And we were all in it together.<br />
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<b>My Fans. </b><br />
Andrea, Val, Robb, Allison, Dan, Rachel Steve, Amy, Diana, Lindsay, Amy (yes, two Amys), Kim, Diane, Rachel (yes, two Rachels)...you are all amazing. Your presence was known, and it helped me more than I can say.<br />
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Mom and Dad were at the top of Heartbreak Hill. Some background info: My Dad finds my love of Indian cuisine to be amusing. He also knew the in the last couple of weeks before training I had abstained from such delights as to not tempt the gastronomic gods. So he had my mom holding this sign when I reached the top.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQLiCK0bmnB1F3oQbre38yIj7b71qgjTqfHgk1dEzQimqtIWY1jMQzcAghD6UIO-JEKsfDvtaJvE61yuuu0f4wBxTNYr-moA53P5-0BstEn7cOFE_kMKo-PGd58YSPSHECum0qdNnS7dw/s1600/photo+3+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQLiCK0bmnB1F3oQbre38yIj7b71qgjTqfHgk1dEzQimqtIWY1jMQzcAghD6UIO-JEKsfDvtaJvE61yuuu0f4wBxTNYr-moA53P5-0BstEn7cOFE_kMKo-PGd58YSPSHECum0qdNnS7dw/s1600/photo+3+(1).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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And then I took a much-needed quad stretch before it was all downhill -- literally -- to the finish (not as pleasant as it sounds!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5U71ljdttrkXdWiIxsET-VHrsHO_kLcy1Uo0RyAKCOxxVi8ph5JsnGHcJuwTEO2u05vgj1cPPKSkBccYT-sbMVWuHdHkbGUGz1eBUvpz4P_CSgfS1Ji3R4kGTRaJsABUA6RIyjI3cU90V/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5U71ljdttrkXdWiIxsET-VHrsHO_kLcy1Uo0RyAKCOxxVi8ph5JsnGHcJuwTEO2u05vgj1cPPKSkBccYT-sbMVWuHdHkbGUGz1eBUvpz4P_CSgfS1Ji3R4kGTRaJsABUA6RIyjI3cU90V/s1600/photo+5.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Thank you to all of you who viewed and supported me, in person and online (I know there was a lot of virtual tracking going on!) You were truly there with me every step of of the way.</div>
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<b>The other runners. </b>On the course that day were the most elite runners in the world. But I was also blessed to run alongside so many inspirational people. Every race shirt had a story to tell. She survived cancer. He was running for his friend killed in Iraq. She was running for her mother. He was running in honor of a victim of the 2013 bombing.</div>
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I'd feel pain and start grimacing. And then a man with no legs would run by me.</div>
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<i>You choose to be here. Your pain is completely temporary.</i></div>
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I'd curse my decision to run. And then I'd see a blind woman running alongside her volunteer guide.</div>
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<i>What do you have to complain about?</i></div>
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I was tired and overwhelmed. And then I passed <a href="http://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2014/04/22/dick-and-rick-hoyt-run-marathon-their-last-duo/0802xdlCGKe5Z84VmCgMpI/story.html">Rick and Dick Hoyt</a>, surrounded by team-members, applauded by the crowd and runners alike. </div>
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<i>You are running with heroes.</i></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5KuYaVD-rbBMXL2NsU5l66gqPrngn1I0uSJg0xsA-uqL4lIjv1pjdekex5uFgfs1Z-CqvkAPiTZBREDmntPS8MPqCEaP0G-3RSy_hvA62v8do2YrcVjsbzpo12qhbtB0wAEsXmhVIZSg7/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5KuYaVD-rbBMXL2NsU5l66gqPrngn1I0uSJg0xsA-uqL4lIjv1pjdekex5uFgfs1Z-CqvkAPiTZBREDmntPS8MPqCEaP0G-3RSy_hvA62v8do2YrcVjsbzpo12qhbtB0wAEsXmhVIZSg7/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit Stephen Goldstein -- mile 23!</td></tr>
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<b>Dana-Farber. </b>Boston loves Dana-Farber. I felt so much love from the sidelines and heard countless "thank yous" for having raised money for this organization. My team also had official cheering zones at miles 16 and 25. Those zones were amazing and gave me energy, inspiration, and courage to keep going.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxR3nbsQl2RxIyDnaM5q_jYOy96Oo2nxvoXvbN4TO1vzN3w05I1d62C7BCi_rUKBvjaMtlC1eONFlpciUEsRE8UmLXjck3AbEpbnnegE4NiXdFgIy-cZLjskBQ8qCdckQwdAwPn-BX8D3I/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxR3nbsQl2RxIyDnaM5q_jYOy96Oo2nxvoXvbN4TO1vzN3w05I1d62C7BCi_rUKBvjaMtlC1eONFlpciUEsRE8UmLXjck3AbEpbnnegE4NiXdFgIy-cZLjskBQ8qCdckQwdAwPn-BX8D3I/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you believe this is mile 25? I look DAMN GOOD!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDT-oxraMbxrNU8tohnKun83YgNGaS3WtjlCdAK3LtlYvTlHKT9Vh6ciHZwLAzNe-dzWQFwKt9wxquiYFncms1LFS7tQm7m09LHsgSGQXtTMpksCPlTQdC43BPoQIRrfzZ3PfXuE2yqVUL/s1600/photo+4+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDT-oxraMbxrNU8tohnKun83YgNGaS3WtjlCdAK3LtlYvTlHKT9Vh6ciHZwLAzNe-dzWQFwKt9wxquiYFncms1LFS7tQm7m09LHsgSGQXtTMpksCPlTQdC43BPoQIRrfzZ3PfXuE2yqVUL/s1600/photo+4+%25281%2529.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waving to the Dana-Farber cheering zone at mile 25!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC_7qLTSWl9zv6VYQRrJwk9QW05tjiK81UaEfsYCeKb9HHN5ROLNzFq8d3L_-17Dx6LJQ233fuzZc3irVwlXzXCs84bLjPumjPX09TAXmP1RoknkRL8PbvJMqbI9pO1vBXGQ5o1BI9g_eT/s1600/photo+1+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC_7qLTSWl9zv6VYQRrJwk9QW05tjiK81UaEfsYCeKb9HHN5ROLNzFq8d3L_-17Dx6LJQ233fuzZc3irVwlXzXCs84bLjPumjPX09TAXmP1RoknkRL8PbvJMqbI9pO1vBXGQ5o1BI9g_eT/s1600/photo+1+%25281%2529.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Proudly displaying my Pacesetter badge (Photo Credit: Stephen Goldstein!)</td></tr>
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It was a difficult 26.2 miles, but I was prepared. I had trained, I felt great mentally, and I had fueled and hydrated properly (Miami may have been good practice for the heat!) </div>
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It was full of raw emotion, and I had to dig deep at many, many points. (Please keep in mind that I have posted a fraction of the photos taken of me...many are not so...flattering...)</div>
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I did my absolute best to soak in every moment and to remember that this was truly one of those experiences in life that you remember forever. This is something you tell your kids about. I knew as it was happening that I would cherish it all: The race of course, but also the fundraising and -- yes -- even the crazy winter training I pushed through. For the rest of my life.</div>
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And before I knew it, I saw the Citgo sign. And then I was running through Kenmore Square. And then I was taking a right on Hereford. And a left on Boylston. </div>
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<br />And then I was running on Boylston Street. And the crowd was going <i>crazy.</i> And I was running where it happened last year and I looked towards those spots and my heart burst. And I pushed harder than I've ever pushed before. I felt no pain. I felt no fatigue. I just felt a swell of emotion unlike anything I've ever experienced, and I was smiling through the tears in my eyes, and as I crossed that finish line I laughed and cried at the same time. </div>
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Everyone was crying. And hugging. And laughing. </div>
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Everything with my dad, and with last year and with me, it all came together into this one <i>moment</i>. It was truly beyond words. I was full of gratitude for the amazing people in my life. I felt blessed to have reached that moment. And I felt proud of myself for making it happen.. Ultimately, I guess it was just pure joy.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBAyblidHH2QjjISLexVNQoBwfMSQa1nPTXDbnlhpuig1nPS8qn4CrfPSfD7w9WyJ2A5NJai44HGAqOkdLQJhaaAYb79XWFha1RQXid6ZiBmChPQCyPlq-gWXhlActVMCi4M-UXkx8eG83/s1600/Finish+Line.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBAyblidHH2QjjISLexVNQoBwfMSQa1nPTXDbnlhpuig1nPS8qn4CrfPSfD7w9WyJ2A5NJai44HGAqOkdLQJhaaAYb79XWFha1RQXid6ZiBmChPQCyPlq-gWXhlActVMCi4M-UXkx8eG83/s1600/Finish+Line.JPG" height="400" width="317" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PRed by several minutes! 4:16:53!</td></tr>
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And if I sound crazy or hyperbolic in any way? I assure you I am bit scratching the surface. It really was everything I'm telling you and so much more.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Jsc7-mFtWsCAxdlTPNbwRGyBZ5Wb1C3E38QMP27xKTygi1CeCxFSIM5XUx-M32d55sRfxMximxU3Z9BNzfOd42hCanCQBb9b6DCNrskNKS0R7zad2Kid4Wryky3m0nrRb1xiN6h2xVgx/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Jsc7-mFtWsCAxdlTPNbwRGyBZ5Wb1C3E38QMP27xKTygi1CeCxFSIM5XUx-M32d55sRfxMximxU3Z9BNzfOd42hCanCQBb9b6DCNrskNKS0R7zad2Kid4Wryky3m0nrRb1xiN6h2xVgx/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a>'</div>
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Dana-Farber volunteers collected us from the Finish Area and brought us back to the D-F home-base. There, we were greeted with cheers, food, beverages, changing areas, and volunteer masseuses. Truly a VIP Marathon experience. <i>(Please know that we pay a large fee to participate in DFMC! All money donated went 100% to fund early research, and not to give me a massage! Just want you to know!) </i>DFMC and their glorious volunteers put on a class-act show from beginning to end. As I've said before, it is a pleasure and an honor to run with them!<br />
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And after I cleaned up and ate and got a massage and then ate some more, I met up with my cheering squad.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQwabbQn7zv7bWEX_EmyrQpw_XtX4ZqtYPuhml08ZlrWkgOz_7rzsp8W2xcShsrJ5f6IwhTXgD_VIYDAkt-MXWuFxHHhy8PNlx66rMcJtYa0kJK7aUJ6Pxgk6cvWjV_IZO9RiKGBfOfSCl/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQwabbQn7zv7bWEX_EmyrQpw_XtX4ZqtYPuhml08ZlrWkgOz_7rzsp8W2xcShsrJ5f6IwhTXgD_VIYDAkt-MXWuFxHHhy8PNlx66rMcJtYa0kJK7aUJ6Pxgk6cvWjV_IZO9RiKGBfOfSCl/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wearing their DFMC Fan Gear!</td></tr>
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So what's next? Well, on the way home we stopped for Chinese Food (as I was craving lo mein with near desperation). And my fortune that night hopefully said it all:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqsuQsgvdwgRLi9_asUf7bh_OV7rr4H_Ce20eOz_3bPIGsbhw0SoqtlipEIzuuMqfAegkzCFaYVfJL60hGIJUwu13v1FFVoKVZmqNKPWBHcNZrsGQ_VQSZMc_6E6fssMH2xnSNmNhgg5Kn/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqsuQsgvdwgRLi9_asUf7bh_OV7rr4H_Ce20eOz_3bPIGsbhw0SoqtlipEIzuuMqfAegkzCFaYVfJL60hGIJUwu13v1FFVoKVZmqNKPWBHcNZrsGQ_VQSZMc_6E6fssMH2xnSNmNhgg5Kn/s1600/photo.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Thank you, Reader, for being part of my journey!</span></b></i></div>
Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-30038247315726649972014-05-25T16:54:00.000-04:002014-05-25T16:54:19.448-04:00Race Recap: The 2014 Boston Marathon -- Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I can't believe it's been over a month and I've yet to write this recap. So much has happened since, that in some ways The Boston Marathon feels like a distant memory. I traveled to Paris and Brussels for a weeks' vacation. My role changed at work, giving me a whole new set of responsibilities. I've been hanging out with some wonderful new (runner!) friends and trying out new workout experiences in the city. (More on that in a future post...) I ran -- and PRed -- at the Brooklyn Half Marathon.</div>
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And, yes, these are excuses for why I haven't written. But more it's because I frankly <i>didn't have the words. </i>The Boston Marathon experience -- and I truly mean the whole experience -- was by far one of the best weekends of my life.</div>
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So to describe to someone, or in a blog post, "So how was it?" Well, it's a bit difficult to say without somewhat diminishing the emotional impact the weekend had on me. But with all that as a preface, here we go.</div>
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I left you last with a<a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/04/pre-marathon-festivities-in-photos.html"> photo essay of sorts from the Saturday before the race</a>: Bib Pick-Up day. Sunday I drove back into the city with my parents to attend the Dana-Farber Pasta Dinner. They would drive back to Plymouth after, while I would be staying over night in Boston with friends before the race.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUI-70uP_fUI_e85xNQMc7rEWB8sxvRtbHWRl8RD94a8M12RTnfJPMqIW2uq8zIwUFjZPJL25M5NCNbay4IgeXVH455eQ2GlHsYDTrPLYp95nl4LJuR9gRMpdKQzWOV6wvSznw2syQ56ZQ/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUI-70uP_fUI_e85xNQMc7rEWB8sxvRtbHWRl8RD94a8M12RTnfJPMqIW2uq8zIwUFjZPJL25M5NCNbay4IgeXVH455eQ2GlHsYDTrPLYp95nl4LJuR9gRMpdKQzWOV6wvSznw2syQ56ZQ/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two bags with me: One to check with Dana-Farber for post-race and the other with my overnight stuff and race-day attire and paraphernalia. Both filled with lots of pretzels.</td></tr>
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We arrived early to the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge (DFMC) headquarters at the Copley Marriot, so we had time to take another gander around the finish line area. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvlrQyR4xHLmcObwEHHRw8F1LEmSyqqv-UbiwAJTKyRDScRbY0X0KeNqFlh4ItiLFSP-1mMBRp4y36GrTMtm2Ejn_wQ7J3sCAbuIEaxFAYQSmZtLx7GLGWEH11FN1BUf35lnR3DV50bne0/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvlrQyR4xHLmcObwEHHRw8F1LEmSyqqv-UbiwAJTKyRDScRbY0X0KeNqFlh4ItiLFSP-1mMBRp4y36GrTMtm2Ejn_wQ7J3sCAbuIEaxFAYQSmZtLx7GLGWEH11FN1BUf35lnR3DV50bne0/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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I hadn't been able to get so close on Saturday, so to stand at the finish line of the Marathon --after everything that had occurred last year -- was a very surreal and emotional moment. I had obviously been upset by the events of 2013. Disgusted. Unnerved. Angry.</div>
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But it was only at that moment that it really hit me the magnitude of what had happened and what <i>was happening. </i>We -- as a community of runners, a city and a country -- were moving beyond 2013 and towards a new year. It was powerful to see the insignia for the 118th Boston Marathon rather than the 117th. It felt like we could finally move forward.</div>
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My parents were, as always, the freaking cutest. Taking pictures and just being so excited. I'm a lucky girl to have such a dedicated cheering squad.</div>
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We then made our way to the dinner. I didn't quite know what to expect, but DFMC friends had recommended the event as not-to-miss. </div>
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Upon arrival, we all got nametags. You'll notice the "Pacesetter" ribbon on mine, signifying that I had hit the $8K+ milestone for fundraising. </div>
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Throughout the weekend, there was so much <i>appreciation</i> for the fundraising efforts from volunteers and staff alongside ensuring our comfort and safety for the run. They never forget that -- first-and-foremost -- we are fundraising for an important cause. And it's important because, that means that <i>I never forgot that either</i>. For every "thank you" or "way to go" I received for my fundraising, I must continue to relay that <b>ten-fold</b> to you, my readers. So many of you provided your financial support and it truly meant something to me and to this organization!!<br />
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Walking towards the ballroom for dinner, the hallways were lined with "Tribute Cards" that runners had the opportunity to fill out in honor or memory of those they were running for. My Dad had no idea, but I had made one for him, which I found and pointed out to him.<br />
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<br />All the tears. All the smiles. This is why I was running. It's not about completing 26.2 in a certain time. It's about me doing something that I could do to give back to the hospital that gave my Dad's life back to me. <div>
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And my Dad and I hugged and he told me how proud he was of me (for the thousandth time). And he said -- to paraphrase -- that my performance at the race was irrelevant. I had, once again, sacrificed and trained. And more importantly, I had raised <b>$11,800</b> (my final tally!!) towards a cause I truly believe in. I had already won in his eyes.<br />
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And he was absolutely right. For my other marathons, at this point the day/evening before I was a nervous wreck. But for Boston, I truly believe what my Dad said. The race was actually already run, and the rest was gravy. I was just so enjoying being with my (healthy!) parents that nervousness really didn't cross my mind.<br />
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We walked into the ballroom. And Oh. My. God.<br />
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1000 people attended this little shin-dig. Runners, family, friends, supporters. Many of them patients and survivors themselves.<br />
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The pasta buffet was -- as any pasta buffet tends to be -- wonderful. And then the program began. During the event, we heard from some amazing speakers. Dave McGilvrey (Boston Marathon Race Director), the CEO of The Dana-Farber and Boston Marathon winner Uta Pippig each gave wonhe derful speeches. We focused less on 2013 (although it certainly came up), and more on the <i>importance of the funds we had raised</i>. </div>
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There were many poignant moments that stay with me whenever I think back to that weekend. There was an In Memorium for children who had been treated for cancer and lost their battle which was incredibly emotional. One powerful moment came when Darby spoke to us. Darby -- in remission for Breast Cancer-- was to run the 2014 with the DFMC team, but while training she found out that her cancer had not only returned, but severely spread. Darby stoically said to us that she would likely not be here next year. And she reminded us that what we were doing was <i>important</i> and <i>necessary. </i>Because maybe, just maybe, another Darby in the future wouldn't have to stand knowing her fate because there would be a <i>treatment. </i>Or better yet, a <i>cure.</i> There wasn't a dry eye in the house, and I have thought about Darby in my prayers and thoughts every day since.</div>
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In honor of this, the 25th year, the founder of the Claudia Barr Adams program -- to which all the DFMC funds are directed -- spoke to us. She had founded the program in honor and namesake of her mother and in partnership with some of the early charity runners for the Boston Marathon. </div>
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Historically, you see, the Boston Marathon was only for "elite" runners who could qualify for the race. To give context, the qualifying time for a woman my age is about 3:35 -- a truly daunting number and one I likely will never come near. For "slow pokes" like me, charity is the only way we may dream to run Boston. And so we raise money <i>and</i> we run. While there is some controversy around this change (which is now multi-decades old), I think it's a wonderful element that allows the race to be bigger than the individual. It still allows for those who quality to attain that <i>amazing</i> personal achievement. But it also allows for more of us to participate and to give back. Soap box over.</div>
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What I took away from so many of these speakers is the important of why specifically our money was going to this fun. Early basic research is being cut from so many hospitals because it's not always necessarily profitable. But it's <i>necessary</i> if we want to see scientific progress. So what we are doing is keeping one of these such programs not only alive, but <i>thriving.</i> If we do not assure that money is raised and allocated in this manner, progress <i>will</i> stop. Cures will <i>not</i> be achieved. </div>
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This is critical. And we are doing it.</div>
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They gave out awards to those who had run 5 years. 10 years. 15 years. 20 years. And, yes, one gentleman who has run every single of the 25 years. These individuals have raised <i>millions</i> of dollars. It truly blows the mind. It's not about crossing races off a bucket list for them or the times that these individuals complete their marathons. This is about passion and drive. It's truly amazing and inspiring.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">25 Years of DFMC and The Boston Marathon!!</td></tr>
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The Race Coordinator spoke and reveled that, yes, we had met our team goal of $5.3 million. In fact, we had exceed <b>$7 Million Dollars Raised for early basic cancer research. </b>We did that. We in that room did that. </div>
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And if you donated, you were part of that. We made a huge impact, and we should all feel very proud of what a group of 700 people -- and their supporters -- were able to achieve. Some day you or one of your loved ones may very well benefit from a cure or treatment developed from the money raised by DFMC 2014.</div>
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With a belly full of carbs and a heart full of every positive emotion in the human language, I was ready to relax and start focusing on having an amazing run. I was dropped off at friends Steve and Amy's in Brookline where I would rest my head before my 5:45 wake-up call.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome sign!</td></tr>
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I laid out my clothes. I ate more pretzels (one can never eat too many pretzels). I angsted (just a bit) about the bathroom. And then there was nothing else to do but apply temporary tattoos and get a good night sleep.<br />
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Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-12755647807089536252014-04-19T17:10:00.001-04:002014-04-19T17:11:10.626-04:00Pre-Marathon Festivities: In Photos!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">2 days until we run! So many words, so many emotions...so little time. I thought as a little teaser, I would share my day in photos so you can see what's been going on. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Bib pick-up was smooth sailing!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi15Zm2lmjib5KtOPQlSYMT8uTkEOLqbTBQB0QKBlrZMpsHxU_QBS7yhgZ4R_qPhsYZFcm8dWObW3oV3mYoFkhRFh36DGsv1SvZ96RxNR4eWldMTw0Fy-7ahJMvAJxjHrsExbivNuMzNdf-/s640/blogger-image--192205951.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi15Zm2lmjib5KtOPQlSYMT8uTkEOLqbTBQB0QKBlrZMpsHxU_QBS7yhgZ4R_qPhsYZFcm8dWObW3oV3mYoFkhRFh36DGsv1SvZ96RxNR4eWldMTw0Fy-7ahJMvAJxjHrsExbivNuMzNdf-/s640/blogger-image--192205951.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Selfie!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6Vvesd48Z-tSkso1EzwAnvqSPJVmFeBw752b6wwZhkNAoJ4wHnT4ZU4AjHOAvWB45lhEFQsJvmxghjNcQbucDF5ur19VrKoBEP6lCkJ9PG62hHR9uB6zjvGfuRBe8uYesJnT7Wyy19Ki/s640/blogger-image--360276421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6Vvesd48Z-tSkso1EzwAnvqSPJVmFeBw752b6wwZhkNAoJ4wHnT4ZU4AjHOAvWB45lhEFQsJvmxghjNcQbucDF5ur19VrKoBEP6lCkJ9PG62hHR9uB6zjvGfuRBe8uYesJnT7Wyy19Ki/s640/blogger-image--360276421.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Mom and I found Meghan -- who had just completed the BAA 5k -- and we went to the expo together! I bought all of the things.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbsnjTLlLg_3y9zdrLXiDG7khjGU67LEsbRIOXCctTkTpSFOb3zuDbXDsi3S6mHHJi7Q2q-UJ9NlBBIJ0OYr38XgYNREK6nQkmgya4zhiZdADpZXroe2sq3X-6TdlCaWGvlo6rIR0nwQCv/s640/blogger-image--1887093354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbsnjTLlLg_3y9zdrLXiDG7khjGU67LEsbRIOXCctTkTpSFOb3zuDbXDsi3S6mHHJi7Q2q-UJ9NlBBIJ0OYr38XgYNREK6nQkmgya4zhiZdADpZXroe2sq3X-6TdlCaWGvlo6rIR0nwQCv/s640/blogger-image--1887093354.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirMgNXPh4heG1UWFIdaxnSTon1eOXRalvOMdBgMhyphenhyphenjfHNz_fouYFR0y5zYrzLRZZYFNuoTaQIQCeLvZDVDzmA8ieQwexHLCxiESgahT23xBp3haGTy2nOPyAaoz35EWMkDhVe_6MPZ0nfr/s640/blogger-image--1312745504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirMgNXPh4heG1UWFIdaxnSTon1eOXRalvOMdBgMhyphenhyphenjfHNz_fouYFR0y5zYrzLRZZYFNuoTaQIQCeLvZDVDzmA8ieQwexHLCxiESgahT23xBp3haGTy2nOPyAaoz35EWMkDhVe_6MPZ0nfr/s640/blogger-image--1312745504.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqWiyqa6XNdIwbXOHEsQpezrskB37cdoZqjzB8qSHVV5lkIXLb1RKDpZ5V90sftN8ZQUPd9uvPAnQZDlCK6erk2DDz9m1JL92PXj1NjdqmSLdnPLD1dEvj3IR8jcubnypqpZdvmOj719qo/s640/blogger-image--52808179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqWiyqa6XNdIwbXOHEsQpezrskB37cdoZqjzB8qSHVV5lkIXLb1RKDpZ5V90sftN8ZQUPd9uvPAnQZDlCK6erk2DDz9m1JL92PXj1NjdqmSLdnPLD1dEvj3IR8jcubnypqpZdvmOj719qo/s640/blogger-image--52808179.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At the Sam Adams booth:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLoWsnty9-URbY4TNmN3YFQE0KeIsMVNtrRImutfOj1mpTb2mIPCeP6-O5vSajK93hyXOSQqbcVEh-sRzOQP4voA5zZPoSx7wcCww2tIWtrlPokXoZLxIiPvjJTzS0unf3Sb2wmJZcIRKo/s640/blogger-image-632467650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLoWsnty9-URbY4TNmN3YFQE0KeIsMVNtrRImutfOj1mpTb2mIPCeP6-O5vSajK93hyXOSQqbcVEh-sRzOQP4voA5zZPoSx7wcCww2tIWtrlPokXoZLxIiPvjJTzS0unf3Sb2wmJZcIRKo/s640/blogger-image-632467650.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuI0I80SY-CZzy1GqPAwHiv_nBRL8ZF3ydAaKB6QcP_57Hth3cnFBKJ1CrnVRw5blV8f8WDTnO681qs4WZ3xL1KsZhGF0JqRWbcV26FNHkHCH3VZqEb6q67LESVLY8l1RAK9P8K-7bQFKN/s640/blogger-image--1313382599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuI0I80SY-CZzy1GqPAwHiv_nBRL8ZF3ydAaKB6QcP_57Hth3cnFBKJ1CrnVRw5blV8f8WDTnO681qs4WZ3xL1KsZhGF0JqRWbcV26FNHkHCH3VZqEb6q67LESVLY8l1RAK9P8K-7bQFKN/s640/blogger-image--1313382599.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Samples of special edition 26.2 brew!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6LFtNlxGYwGV3agDuXh44HOWzzvE_4YCTwhHGCSLOOd4kL7gFbSukBp5zdYjjgic2pI-pZcDA2IahPxBcnASjKj7ZFPKEhpJwajV6uIBrS5wJMsXNhN43-9NED__oeDr2iQpNZnGG5DIO/s640/blogger-image-994136726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6LFtNlxGYwGV3agDuXh44HOWzzvE_4YCTwhHGCSLOOd4kL7gFbSukBp5zdYjjgic2pI-pZcDA2IahPxBcnASjKj7ZFPKEhpJwajV6uIBrS5wJMsXNhN43-9NED__oeDr2iQpNZnGG5DIO/s640/blogger-image-994136726.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Outside on Boylston:</div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6XYeMR7StlAurDLsqLH2TBWj9fUlF5H2FcLLNpHcGHITDs7QmE08n7_X3CnNhoUsQ-L5lqZFc7eFNcgrVoVuupKOgqChjL0NlTUvm7Uz2Z2kOhyphenhyphentBQ_maRjSdTqzsUKD6OGkVwvx6i72I/s640/blogger-image--1314713988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6XYeMR7StlAurDLsqLH2TBWj9fUlF5H2FcLLNpHcGHITDs7QmE08n7_X3CnNhoUsQ-L5lqZFc7eFNcgrVoVuupKOgqChjL0NlTUvm7Uz2Z2kOhyphenhyphentBQ_maRjSdTqzsUKD6OGkVwvx6i72I/s640/blogger-image--1314713988.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoNhmSgdq-vFTJUSuA5TDJjKRXbtb8-GpWJX5FTXg7KPl2IG-ZD-9B23vG50T_aC7rBSf_G7Ezd08-iI8rncG8uGAfVNhlVIDzxEu5JesHHYgWgd5rxFRY7qUhXHPcPl9zV4rOarTsNHpg/s640/blogger-image-738856876.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoNhmSgdq-vFTJUSuA5TDJjKRXbtb8-GpWJX5FTXg7KPl2IG-ZD-9B23vG50T_aC7rBSf_G7Ezd08-iI8rncG8uGAfVNhlVIDzxEu5JesHHYgWgd5rxFRY7qUhXHPcPl9zV4rOarTsNHpg/s640/blogger-image-738856876.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">From the other side of the Finish Line. There was a ton if security today because of all the events (5k, invitational mile, expo, etc). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Lfq6L4cucdNoIH_Uc8i2ulwnD-v7DcCKDLktedZJdBhSchvXBU0Oo9S6j2Y8ThB2NTJ0h7NX07yPlKSveAHhX5jujsMAxCst5g_GACl8BDy8g_o-4aM7FkJCbsa2mZfkTuZxu5be3Ba0/s640/blogger-image-1190894174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Lfq6L4cucdNoIH_Uc8i2ulwnD-v7DcCKDLktedZJdBhSchvXBU0Oo9S6j2Y8ThB2NTJ0h7NX07yPlKSveAHhX5jujsMAxCst5g_GACl8BDy8g_o-4aM7FkJCbsa2mZfkTuZxu5be3Ba0/s640/blogger-image-1190894174.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Mom and I then headed over to the Marriott Copley to check in with Dana-Farber. Here they had a board showing our team fundraising progress (over $5 million!!!) as well as e names of "Pacesetters" who have hit certain goals.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCMcN7xZonZCllCBS-Fg4EA9Ve3CUtEbLJCaZEqwk1TuLvV3_SvwBdUEJffq77HoAn0Hoy2OtKICF8z_6pXmR50ZplQPH5ySIWBcXM2OMip1ipjLz9j9ab4yTcsrkoQ53t_9Lzv75ryBM/s640/blogger-image--962597196.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCMcN7xZonZCllCBS-Fg4EA9Ve3CUtEbLJCaZEqwk1TuLvV3_SvwBdUEJffq77HoAn0Hoy2OtKICF8z_6pXmR50ZplQPH5ySIWBcXM2OMip1ipjLz9j9ab4yTcsrkoQ53t_9Lzv75ryBM/s640/blogger-image--962597196.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Here's my name with the $8k pacesetters!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9pAtPBwMaZkqtPIFeL8F14QIvoO5HW45JxL4d6mBhiWez8Bo-mQUIWn6RaOYzj3JskrdzwTHOpd_OgXPMsBbgytVSdjJKQQOG480UNAr3f5hEKHPdsftJSKX1jUtiSqTzzrQjlOZJqvF5/s640/blogger-image-2146597810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9pAtPBwMaZkqtPIFeL8F14QIvoO5HW45JxL4d6mBhiWez8Bo-mQUIWn6RaOYzj3JskrdzwTHOpd_OgXPMsBbgytVSdjJKQQOG480UNAr3f5hEKHPdsftJSKX1jUtiSqTzzrQjlOZJqvF5/s640/blogger-image-2146597810.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At the Old South Church they were giving out scarves made from all over the country. They were intended to show strength, comfort and support to runners. Mine was made by a child: Lorna from Spokane. Thanks Lorna!!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ_wrRHRs4uo6AaLVmmZYgA366MoEslF3-Vqg1n6FztwP-HbExFD5RHiU-Wmx_v9W0n7ymzLwwODJQ9JPsKVSeWDYccyFBpNX_HBBsZ9aog2caSpsdaWfLtXV6g0-y-cP_7yNePLrOwuAg/s640/blogger-image-1196222727.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ_wrRHRs4uo6AaLVmmZYgA366MoEslF3-Vqg1n6FztwP-HbExFD5RHiU-Wmx_v9W0n7ymzLwwODJQ9JPsKVSeWDYccyFBpNX_HBBsZ9aog2caSpsdaWfLtXV6g0-y-cP_7yNePLrOwuAg/s640/blogger-image-1196222727.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Mom and I met up with my friend Lauren and had a lovely lunch. Deep dish Pizzaria Unos (hold the cheese please) without any guilt? Yes, ma'am!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie_ERjP7YIquNAp1mBY4xgw3UvvitbBV4_jGAWi2qxm3lWTxkPccEZJE2zbQJTHk7dV_BPmfEzcWwP8UGFkMPZdhyphenhyphenHPVSvgkkLpgLkCgLl547LJ2YoVIk_o_jE9NLmtW3BVp2R0SoznJxJ/s640/blogger-image-908891601.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie_ERjP7YIquNAp1mBY4xgw3UvvitbBV4_jGAWi2qxm3lWTxkPccEZJE2zbQJTHk7dV_BPmfEzcWwP8UGFkMPZdhyphenhyphenHPVSvgkkLpgLkCgLl547LJ2YoVIk_o_jE9NLmtW3BVp2R0SoznJxJ/s640/blogger-image-908891601.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The day was stunning. Here's a view on Newbury Street.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLrdYRwCWbBCX_2yWYKjz9MSBIGimfxz0yTD9w5DmdmvkjATHqLzz56j1nQcwZGP2F5rAZagDVaNyIf5O4MH2tPhPBKgs7X3m9-eqsL13xFsUxUcv0NnrLN6P-ta0SKLK2OgRws0ONGTA2/s640/blogger-image--1672843678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLrdYRwCWbBCX_2yWYKjz9MSBIGimfxz0yTD9w5DmdmvkjATHqLzz56j1nQcwZGP2F5rAZagDVaNyIf5O4MH2tPhPBKgs7X3m9-eqsL13xFsUxUcv0NnrLN6P-ta0SKLK2OgRws0ONGTA2/s640/blogger-image--1672843678.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Cherry blossoms in full bloom:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9u4VEqF67KHdWDv20_-SONgC9IzTrf9keHbUG7s42vgJMlerL9lkn8ofSK7EYehtIX-YbIiboW6pbukXEG4_sVoyZExDzMKALoAJlDnMTgRNJYmGldMSoiN5KpDxE6oxIMz0NhsUKFWjB/s640/blogger-image--1237933681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9u4VEqF67KHdWDv20_-SONgC9IzTrf9keHbUG7s42vgJMlerL9lkn8ofSK7EYehtIX-YbIiboW6pbukXEG4_sVoyZExDzMKALoAJlDnMTgRNJYmGldMSoiN5KpDxE6oxIMz0NhsUKFWjB/s640/blogger-image--1237933681.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Once home I started unpacking all my goodies - 2 huge bags from the expo and Dana-Farber! They were filled with the official race shirt, shirts (yes, multiple) I bought, souvenirs, posters to decorate, cowbells and poms-poms for race cheering, and more! Here was one of my favorite items:</div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hvuHXWGoVpxqJaiGPVPjFi5Ut7NjP6NuXN25caIya5w6K5uYrNME58vYME-UuHxCPUt5IwSR7NVy2JGT-egZaVkAUQiGvv3M-Dy8K3cINoATwrMHorlv_jVEaKBx9zQ8S7fJCiW6Yfax/s640/blogger-image-86749305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6hvuHXWGoVpxqJaiGPVPjFi5Ut7NjP6NuXN25caIya5w6K5uYrNME58vYME-UuHxCPUt5IwSR7NVy2JGT-egZaVkAUQiGvv3M-Dy8K3cINoATwrMHorlv_jVEaKBx9zQ8S7fJCiW6Yfax/s640/blogger-image-86749305.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I modeled one of my shirts with an official Boston Marathon mug. Because obviously I needed a mug. Duh.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQtNBe9GCSWxCG-ch6pEiGhFnY5vpzt4hnWzAQRiP-buZ3AZj5N6yAe7zzQ8zZIBaaEMSHPx0pHxQ9cG5H2p-idyhIcJMwzf3Np8OnYwtlkcW3KRsB52rZTNp9VwNLQVlLK1SM7ABVBIFA/s640/blogger-image-1646765286.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQtNBe9GCSWxCG-ch6pEiGhFnY5vpzt4hnWzAQRiP-buZ3AZj5N6yAe7zzQ8zZIBaaEMSHPx0pHxQ9cG5H2p-idyhIcJMwzf3Np8OnYwtlkcW3KRsB52rZTNp9VwNLQVlLK1SM7ABVBIFA/s640/blogger-image-1646765286.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And then Mom decided we should be taking more selfies. Because, again, obviously. Duh.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkASft7vXDRfK7LlKcHI9SbDbBVIOIcZhvze91cEdxXhSMBtVbOn6xxfzC63cdhlwnNSi8iBuzYb6m03tLPz_Dsau2s3JHSYZXAzSLg_Wx7ne8XXG7zANUYU8vlGIYayILOv6sKqfYdxE/s640/blogger-image-319621416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkkASft7vXDRfK7LlKcHI9SbDbBVIOIcZhvze91cEdxXhSMBtVbOn6xxfzC63cdhlwnNSi8iBuzYb6m03tLPz_Dsau2s3JHSYZXAzSLg_Wx7ne8XXG7zANUYU8vlGIYayILOv6sKqfYdxE/s640/blogger-image-319621416.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidrbuMJAUpTgRyPrii8MDds6z5E_oTEaT5aOEaiRbz1YpaS9TgBLSCT-KXq_XxtHNaY8rWMCS-9MszbByATFmmTGdcYK_9Uypb_77QCXMok5iwr64cU0qy1Up7YZlD2_NHbsSXfAdNhin6/s640/blogger-image-902117910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidrbuMJAUpTgRyPrii8MDds6z5E_oTEaT5aOEaiRbz1YpaS9TgBLSCT-KXq_XxtHNaY8rWMCS-9MszbByATFmmTGdcYK_9Uypb_77QCXMok5iwr64cU0qy1Up7YZlD2_NHbsSXfAdNhin6/s640/blogger-image-902117910.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Just as I was about to lay down and get off of my feet...the best part of my day came through on my phone,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOz9wu35fLzE8m8J8oRXrECrfN9zRUZNb0JNDAgM-aAbvNyNLk1ziym4GA_iGhbf-jCco2U6gV_fYB-rt-Ea8biq_sxBZksU2gxfoXIcXQfJQG5oADrRfFiNxE-L3QxF_4oemZUOp5OIE/s640/blogger-image--1054824058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOz9wu35fLzE8m8J8oRXrECrfN9zRUZNb0JNDAgM-aAbvNyNLk1ziym4GA_iGhbf-jCco2U6gV_fYB-rt-Ea8biq_sxBZksU2gxfoXIcXQfJQG5oADrRfFiNxE-L3QxF_4oemZUOp5OIE/s640/blogger-image--1054824058.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>$11,000!!!! Oh my god!!! </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b><br></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">And now, let's cue Les Miserables: One Day More!</div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div><br></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div>Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-90766649864189209742014-04-04T16:47:00.001-04:002014-04-04T22:50:43.311-04:00Finding Meaning in 22 MilesLast weekend I went home to complete my final crazy long run with the Dana-Farber team.<br>
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I didn't know what to expect from this run other than that it would be 20-22 miles and on the marathon course. Team members who live in New York assured me that this was a run not to be missed, so I took their word for it and decided to give it a try.<br>
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I stayed overnight with college friends and appropriately carbo-loaded with them. My friends are <i>really</i> supportive and willing to participate without much coercion in the pasta-eating portion of marathon prep, I've noticed. <br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlBKyHF06RiFQmCPeN1qYrGHBmKo2poPqC4z9bmPevVfqLz0Nr5ze9Njw44oZ315L6qCeTL_LRwsiMF36cGjvkZpzkdty0C_LuJoCgjvS_vWCZ63qoLVn88HgUKuVXSjNUP9xaI50fb2g/s1600/slide_317276_2917128_free.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBlBKyHF06RiFQmCPeN1qYrGHBmKo2poPqC4z9bmPevVfqLz0Nr5ze9Njw44oZ315L6qCeTL_LRwsiMF36cGjvkZpzkdty0C_LuJoCgjvS_vWCZ63qoLVn88HgUKuVXSjNUP9xaI50fb2g/s1600/slide_317276_2917128_free.gif" height="300" width="400"></a></div>
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One of my new DFMC friends -- Betty -- and her boyfriend <a href="http://www.run2curecancer.org/wakeupcall/">Andrew</a> picked me up in the morning and drove me to the meeting area at the Boston College gym. (DF team members become like family so quickly!) There, we could use the locker room bathrooms, prep for the run, and mingle with some other fellow runners before we started our little jog.<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_FbPU4f1QaRUSloUlc1YjbQ3ZgLWnWCN39weIZP9sRl8H0U2gS5GWprorvil30ssXTqsO2i9J42P9EFyZqBRGjaKgHA4EeVvgYwDVBpkdPO5zDpX_7Jh3oz-q9W5j9CM8N7aCEzYUHIwV/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_FbPU4f1QaRUSloUlc1YjbQ3ZgLWnWCN39weIZP9sRl8H0U2gS5GWprorvil30ssXTqsO2i9J42P9EFyZqBRGjaKgHA4EeVvgYwDVBpkdPO5zDpX_7Jh3oz-q9W5j9CM8N7aCEzYUHIwV/s1600/photo.JPG" height="240" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Cassie -- another kick-ass New York DFMC runner!</td></tr>
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If you are training for a marathon, about three weeks prior you will have your dreaded <i>long run</i> of 20-22 miles on the schedule. If training in any city, you can tell who else is doing this run. In New York you can see the determined look as they run by you on the West Side, or the limping fatigue through Central Park. They're with friends, or solo, or sometimes with one of the charities like Team For Kids or Team in Training. They're all over Manhattan and the bridges and the boroughs, and you come across them and you know...they're doing it too.<br>
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Last weekend was that weekend for all those prepping for Boston. And turns out it's a very, very different experience.<br>
<br>Before we set out on that crisp, running-perfect morning, the team made some announcements and awarded recognition to those -- like myself -- that had achieved certain fundraising milestones. <div><br></div><div>Then a woman spoke. Her son Matty had been treated for cancer and passed away several years ago. She told her story and explained the importance of remembering her son, but also thinking of those -- like the siblings of children who are treated for cancer -- that need support too. She asked that we run and remember, as a team. <div><br></div><div>Up next was a guy who was running for his friend. She has breast cancer, and it has spread to the brain. She is 31 years old. He asked that we sign a banner for her to show our support for her. As a team. </div><div><br></div><div>I could barely hold back the tears. <b>THIS</b> is why we donate. <b>This</b> is why we ask our friends and family. <b>This</b> is why we run. We are doing something important here by trying to raise $5 million in 2014 to make the lives of people better. I know that this act of giving back is -- quite possibly -- the most meaningful thing I've personally ever done.</div><div><div><br>And, just as I write with tears now, I started running with tears in my eyes. We were off.<br>
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D-F had fueling stations for us spread out every 2 miles or so for our run, so we'd hit each station twice (if we wanted to). Stations were amazing. Volunteers had water, different Gatorades, preztels, candy...it was a bonanza of fueling fun!<br>
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But it wasn't just us out there. <span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Dana-Farber is the largest charity for Boston at about 700 runners. But it is by no means the only charity. There are </span><i style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">thousands</i><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> of charity runners collectively raising</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><i style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">millions</i><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> of dollars for amazing causes. It is the only way in to Boston if you can't quality for a really fast time. A lot of charity runners didn't finish last year, because it was us slow-pokes who would have finished after that infamous 4:09:43 on the clock last year. (Check out this</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/marathon/post/_/id/134" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">wonderful ESPN article for a great write-up on unfinished business for charity runners</a><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">). This year, charity runners like my friends Meghan (Samaritans) and Ashley (Boston Medical Center) as well as those with my D-F team will get a chance to go at it again. They'll finish what they started.</span></div><div><br></div><div>All the other charities too had tables set up, with volunteers manning the stations and cheering us on! I <span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">learned that some small charities started at the beginning (a very good place to start) and ran to Mile 20-ish. Others began around course Mile 6 and ran to the Finish. Because Dana-Farber started at BC (~Mile 20), ran backwards along the course to Mile 9 or so, and then turned around to run back. If you did the full out and back without turning early, you'd therefore complete 22 miles. And we were running head on into fellow runners coming our way at first. Head on into charity runners like the indestructible Meghan and the unstoppable Ashley, both of whom I saw as we each conquered the hills of the course in our separate directions, </span></div><div><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div>Running stores and even major companies like Saucony got in on the fun and had set up fueling stations for us runners.</div><div><br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSO92jev17YBCV6bOsC8uUGWpr5xi6kXfgmvdq_07Vwc7yRofe0xL7trGvozafHkqfzCCXIaH7vbzO_8SE_uL6crFkCWGbP7QX1_ZHx_25gKB7YvrLvvLzAzYPoiXoIcdxC6TPXdJWKe7/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSO92jev17YBCV6bOsC8uUGWpr5xi6kXfgmvdq_07Vwc7yRofe0xL7trGvozafHkqfzCCXIaH7vbzO_8SE_uL6crFkCWGbP7QX1_ZHx_25gKB7YvrLvvLzAzYPoiXoIcdxC6TPXdJWKe7/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" height="300" width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A hysterical poster from inside of a Saucony-sponsored port-o-potty. After needing an emergency stop on the way back at Mile 14, they will have some brand loyalty from me FOR LIFE</td></tr>
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What got me most, however, were the random people who were there cheering. People! Cheering a training run! It was insane. There were several cars pulled over that had even set up their own make-shift fueling stations and were offering free food and beverages to runners. And there were families with kids holding out fruit. They were smiling, and they were cheering, and they were supporting our every step.<br>
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It was amazing. The energy was contagious. It was like nothing I've ever experienced. Put it this way: if Saturday had been the main event? It would have been enough. It was that good. I can't even fathom what race-day will be like. <br>
<br>What I'm doing here is so much more than "just" another marathon.<br>
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I know that this is a special year and it's bound to be more than "normal." But there is just something about Boston <i>any </i>year. About running <i><b>The </b></i><i style="font-weight: bold;">Boston Marathon. </i></div><div><i style="font-weight: bold;"><br></i></div><div><i style="font-weight: bold;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKVg_R6hGlxsqkmQQ8am0aPf6f44uiY5J8MV9FedJgIpb2bcT4LIKYIsr1DfNWzOiLDbFLwyWAgWFSvlkxwJmfo8wTCY9hVheBMVUlLUi9D1_eG6HOX5_5ZZvYn71VwrSkaJx1aHEGdto/s640/blogger-image-2072804023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJKVg_R6hGlxsqkmQQ8am0aPf6f44uiY5J8MV9FedJgIpb2bcT4LIKYIsr1DfNWzOiLDbFLwyWAgWFSvlkxwJmfo8wTCY9hVheBMVUlLUi9D1_eG6HOX5_5ZZvYn71VwrSkaJx1aHEGdto/s640/blogger-image-2072804023.jpg"></a></div><br></i></div><div><b><i><br></i></b></div><div>It's difficult to put in words what last Saturday did for me and meant to me. Raising money for Dana-Farber. Running the premiere, most distinguished, and most famous marathon in the world. Joining in with my home city as it shows strength, dignity, courage, and the willingness to overcome. Its's like being there on that course with my team finally allowed it to sink in. The emotion I have felt since Saturday sometimes just swells and<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> I have trouble holding it back.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Even on, like, crowded subway cars. Or in line waiting for a salad. Awkward.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I'm glad our 22-miler run -- which I finished without any issue -- did not allow me to practice crossing that now infamous finish line in Boston. Because I've never been so glad to participate in anything as passionately and fully as I am to be running this marathon for this charity in its 25th year of running. And I know that Monday, April 21st is going to be one of the best days of my life. I'll cross the finish then, and I'll know that every glorious, hard, painful, beautiful step will have been worth it. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">We run Boston in 17 days. Together with the support of over 100 donors, we have already raised $10,200. Join me on behalf of Matty and of the 31-year old patient. On behalf of my Dad who -- healthy -- drove an hour to pick me up from my run and drive me back home. On behalf if the loved ones in <i>your </i>life. We run to fight cancer. And we run Boston Strong.</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><a href="http://www.rundfmc.org/2014/merig">http://www.rundfmc.org/2014/merig</a></div><div><br></div><div>
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<br></div></div></div></div>Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-73635962586313499292014-03-25T16:20:00.005-04:002014-03-25T16:20:56.240-04:00That Time I Ran Alone...For Over 3 Hours.I woke up on Sunday morning with the second-to-last of my <i>loooong</i> long runs for Boston Marathon training facing me. I had figured out a group that I could try to join in with for "8-13 miles" (<i>such a big difference between those things!) </i>and woke up with plenty of time to get to the West Side and join them.<br />
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But then I realized something.<br />
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<br />Ok, fine. Not entirely accurate in the macro sense. But that morning I was not in the mood for pleasantries and get-to-know-yous. I wasn't in the mood to smile when I felt like having neutral-face. I wasn't in the mood to be around anyone but myself.<br />
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And so, I set off to conquer 19 miles on my own. As someone who has never gone more than 16 solo (and that was rough!) it was a bit of a daunting task.<br />
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I programmed in about 3 hours of NPR podcasts and reports onto my iPhone and, now appropriately nerded out, began my little journey around the isle of Manhattan.<br />
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To break up the time and have a "task at hand" (other than, you know, the running), I decided to observe my surroundings as much as I could. I captured some of my favorite sights from my jaunt which began at my apartment on the Upper East Side.<br />
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I ran down 1st Avenue and then cut over to the water in the 30s.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVimTnjsMnjq4GQyavhUhgnSMrxCKouaeiH7f75KPcwV06MP6p5V4iAXe-6OmhnLczQm9mJrljAaieuhck3_IxOZPr8OJ4clQziuq02jiQcCT0w0WXkbN47LpWz93Nsyg_vkRUm4CzzAd9/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVimTnjsMnjq4GQyavhUhgnSMrxCKouaeiH7f75KPcwV06MP6p5V4iAXe-6OmhnLczQm9mJrljAaieuhck3_IxOZPr8OJ4clQziuq02jiQcCT0w0WXkbN47LpWz93Nsyg_vkRUm4CzzAd9/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">East River park, looking north<br /><br /></td></tr>
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I ran south along the east side of the island and then ran across the Manhattan Bridge into Brooklyn.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZcDIVqGSe2eMG681DJy-5LVbZrlJ1xpCb1Re9-VBBy0KPQNi2PBRx6cxplHtClsUZmr9mkhx9qsfMbiVaeU9urdWWydABtmEapcDXn6uJsp7ydxnubSCIF2OL8-jJUL0uN3T-AWXgIdy/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZcDIVqGSe2eMG681DJy-5LVbZrlJ1xpCb1Re9-VBBy0KPQNi2PBRx6cxplHtClsUZmr9mkhx9qsfMbiVaeU9urdWWydABtmEapcDXn6uJsp7ydxnubSCIF2OL8-jJUL0uN3T-AWXgIdy/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I kind of love how grimy and non-touristy this bridge it.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLe30kJabvVs3RXlT81MXXMWTD0X8Su_CE8UOIi6FOW-vLL3muCyDR8tN-PVbyOMxbBqiTnXlDcpehDmONivURCk2l9038HT8Buh3625TkSSYL1YHlWiMocXTJgcq54BmAtcO7uTsxQ9B/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLe30kJabvVs3RXlT81MXXMWTD0X8Su_CE8UOIi6FOW-vLL3muCyDR8tN-PVbyOMxbBqiTnXlDcpehDmONivURCk2l9038HT8Buh3625TkSSYL1YHlWiMocXTJgcq54BmAtcO7uTsxQ9B/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">East River</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhngOfsbl_gA5HZo6GaoJXhbqPT3l0S77oRyevAQJ1dIfBRxvwoDGGVZ9XLPHmimk0TeQS6QpZC35CrH0ghLYpZJmnbdt_lK3IQIhQRGMQQ9tKCQyLAtXkfudSeGYCtRtKMldcXrSklX0H6/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhngOfsbl_gA5HZo6GaoJXhbqPT3l0S77oRyevAQJ1dIfBRxvwoDGGVZ9XLPHmimk0TeQS6QpZC35CrH0ghLYpZJmnbdt_lK3IQIhQRGMQQ9tKCQyLAtXkfudSeGYCtRtKMldcXrSklX0H6/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Manhattan Bridge path. Very few people see this view of this well-traveled bridge.</td></tr>
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And battled the brisk (still winter-feeling) air back to Manhattan over the Brooklyn Bridge.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoq6cq7ktz2HYKUQdh5wccvIXR4EdBmmqECZoTfix4H30oeFl5JSeYN855xD8YH1FRXSBkueKQyqasASS79GotuGQqe1LqkRWrUUtYKqJtEAItcva9NwOgDnKrDtt6VTpg0XW-IN9gYCVv/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoq6cq7ktz2HYKUQdh5wccvIXR4EdBmmqECZoTfix4H30oeFl5JSeYN855xD8YH1FRXSBkueKQyqasASS79GotuGQqe1LqkRWrUUtYKqJtEAItcva9NwOgDnKrDtt6VTpg0XW-IN9gYCVv/s1600/photo+5.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Approaching the bridge. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMrj6EI3mt8lDt8X0wCy_gJoYwkHblRcFJvUQL_dHZr7FliN5elHC332irNniHeK_vfi97BHPURdb8PYQExgkBcR3op0P3wQBFUplq9PIjMOZrb-nBzbviAHB-7WQGfG1ED0U9iqiqCZm/s1600/photo+1+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMrj6EI3mt8lDt8X0wCy_gJoYwkHblRcFJvUQL_dHZr7FliN5elHC332irNniHeK_vfi97BHPURdb8PYQExgkBcR3op0P3wQBFUplq9PIjMOZrb-nBzbviAHB-7WQGfG1ED0U9iqiqCZm/s1600/photo+1+(2).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back</td></tr>
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Back on the Island, I headed over to the South Street Seaport.<br />
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And continued to make my way down south, around the tip of Manhattan, and up the west side.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colgate clock in Jersey City</td></tr>
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I entered Central Park at Columbus Circle.</div>
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And finished my last 1.5 miles comfortably, alone, in Central Park.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJcS3djPV-eRixs4eu2TFZAWjQ5rMK94cGwM6OOb3Ba8a90p3ANy1804VgCbwzwZwx0DFJdnq1qYyVhCBYs1_o20iVCg7rhG2fxGl37i7gxZjErPiNMBYl4fgasGGhCghy8WSOZVjt4e1/s1600/photo+3+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJcS3djPV-eRixs4eu2TFZAWjQ5rMK94cGwM6OOb3Ba8a90p3ANy1804VgCbwzwZwx0DFJdnq1qYyVhCBYs1_o20iVCg7rhG2fxGl37i7gxZjErPiNMBYl4fgasGGhCghy8WSOZVjt4e1/s1600/photo+3+(4).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">19 miles ending on Cat Hill? Don't mind if I do.... </td></tr>
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The run was tough, but not as tough as I expected it to be. Between NPR, the scenery, and all the crazy thoughts that ran through my head, I truly never bored. There's a lot that can go on in this little brain of mine when left to its own devices -- it's actually quite terrifying. To be honest, at some point I may have figured out how to work through tough issues such as nuclear fusion or the Middle East Crisis or during my 3+ hours of solo MeriG thinking time. But who can remember these details now.<br />
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I did want to stop around mile 13 when I was just "not feeling it." So I actually did for a few minutes. I stopped. I breathed. I took a sip. And then I said to myself, <i>do you really want to spend $30 on a cab home at this point?</i> And the answer was a decided no. Might as well just run there.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnltS6JgHNkiZT7WGgJ0fY-vuT09WSwSpgGmhmD95yhC1OMNEi7VDQKzWmPfIiM2VhYdujV3_6t8C4rqk58cQFD3q27D-i5AbOVmLKUHU3aCInoFcbEXTMCpweo4VdBNUCgIQotuLsDcFc/s1600/quote-Walter-Payton-running-alone-is-the-toughest-you-get-205183_1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnltS6JgHNkiZT7WGgJ0fY-vuT09WSwSpgGmhmD95yhC1OMNEi7VDQKzWmPfIiM2VhYdujV3_6t8C4rqk58cQFD3q27D-i5AbOVmLKUHU3aCInoFcbEXTMCpweo4VdBNUCgIQotuLsDcFc/s1600/quote-Walter-Payton-running-alone-is-the-toughest-you-get-205183_1.png" height="223" width="400" /></a></div>
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During this lonesome run I only had to worry about myself (my favorite motto). When I was thirsty? I drank. Cramping or sore? Didn't hesitate to stop and stretch. When I had to use a restroom? I did so. <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/02/holding-myself-back.html">Running with a group</a> has its perks for sure. But running at your own pace without having to worry or accommodate anyone else? Well that certainly has its own Pro list as well.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<br /><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000158/" style="color: #70579d; text-decoration: none;">Forrest Gump</a></i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">: When I got tired, I slept. When I got hungry, I ate. When I had to go, you know, I went. </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0242216/" style="color: #70579d; text-decoration: none;">Elderly Southern Woman on Park Bench</a></i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">: And so, you just ran? </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000158/" style="color: #70579d; text-decoration: none;">Forrest Gump</a></i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">: Yeah. </span></blockquote>
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Boston Marathon training has been a series of firsts and superlatives for me. <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/03/a-tale-of-two-runs.html">Longest treadmill run.</a> <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/02/race-recap-coldest-run-ever.html">Coldest run.</a> First run with a new group. And this longest solo run means as much to me as those if not more. This was all me, and it felt great to know that I could do it.<br />
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To quote the poet Jason DeRulo:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCB8dUb0YqZRLBn2i1vYAhgQnvsKjr-1NGlBfkCuENQizD9-tceV7Q3GgDvhYCLtj02WdpmDoxhPV4un-pFBLjCCt8srrOr7Q4mhTIOTuzAwrRgzED5EBjpRmp9c2l-sIP00etwG0e_Se/s1600/tumblr_ky3zt8ixcK1qa1f2go1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCB8dUb0YqZRLBn2i1vYAhgQnvsKjr-1NGlBfkCuENQizD9-tceV7Q3GgDvhYCLtj02WdpmDoxhPV4un-pFBLjCCt8srrOr7Q4mhTIOTuzAwrRgzED5EBjpRmp9c2l-sIP00etwG0e_Se/s1600/tumblr_ky3zt8ixcK1qa1f2go1_1280.jpg" height="139" width="640" /></a></div>
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I then got the greatest surprise when I arrived home and found out that I had officially reached my $10,000 fundraising goal for Dana-Farber. It was an amazing moment, full of complete shock, awe and gratitude. More on this later.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb2IU0KuvVi66R1VqJU9fGRjnBc4WhX3OsQ-KLQwqg-IhKWvrdztl80yQDGJcpO7upNej8XGlAhFsoAUNawXWy8cKc9q_GdqjhBPns1QsviIojkjXjZXVAuSp6nLPiNGLhyhORVE852S8f/s1600/photo+4.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb2IU0KuvVi66R1VqJU9fGRjnBc4WhX3OsQ-KLQwqg-IhKWvrdztl80yQDGJcpO7upNej8XGlAhFsoAUNawXWy8cKc9q_GdqjhBPns1QsviIojkjXjZXVAuSp6nLPiNGLhyhORVE852S8f/s1600/photo+4.PNG" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screen shot!</td></tr>
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Only Archie remained unimpressed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghpOSSonNUzVMvO0yrEEMxGj7VTXorUE_uLdtVmbOC2OR0ABSyIWGKNak1NxslDOd-cdiKFJMNCXgTF8yvMDvzZclmbpdkU8nS6GTEIHb9vNgY95HMlME_iWvkQDehN4RzKIHyde07MxNA/s1600/photo+5+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghpOSSonNUzVMvO0yrEEMxGj7VTXorUE_uLdtVmbOC2OR0ABSyIWGKNak1NxslDOd-cdiKFJMNCXgTF8yvMDvzZclmbpdkU8nS6GTEIHb9vNgY95HMlME_iWvkQDehN4RzKIHyde07MxNA/s1600/photo+5+(4).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/11/part-iii-merig-runs-nyc-marathon-now.html" style="color: #4646d6; text-decoration: none;">I am running the Boston Marathon in 26 days with the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge</a>! I have raised an astounding $10,050 towards my goal of $10,000+! Find our more or donate here: </b><a href="http://www.rundfmc.org/2014/merig" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.runDFMC.org/2014/merig</a></div>
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<br />Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-40223761705002390622014-03-20T20:41:00.000-04:002014-03-20T20:41:34.363-04:00Race Recap: NYC Half Marathon 2014 -- Lucky 13!Last Sunday I completed my 13th half marathon right here in New York City. This is my third year running this race which I completed in the freezing cold in <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/03/race-recap-nyc-half-2013.html">2013 </a>and with my parents spectating <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2012/03/woo-you-can-do.html">in 2012 </a>right before <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/11/part-iii-merig-runs-nyc-marathon-now.html">my Dad was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. </a><br />
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It's always a fun race but, like, all NYRR events lately, it's mucho expensivo. At something like $120, I may have to start evaluating if my wallet can continue to handle these races!<i> (Answer post-analysis: No, no my wallet can not continue to handle these races).</i><br />
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It is the price you pay, I suppose, for running these world class events. Evidently over 20,000 of my fellow runners completed this race, which is truly insane when you think about it. That's like... a town. All running a Half Marathon. Or something.<br />
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People fly in from all over the world to run races such as these and I've gotten to thinking that perhaps I just shouldn't feel the pressure to <i>always </i>run them just because I live, you know, right here. I'm thinking that I may want to start focusing on smaller [read: cheaper] races. And I may want to focus on more races outside of the Tri-State area.<br />
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But then I get coerced into [read: just asked once] to run a Half I know I love, and it's all over. <i>(P.S. Look for my 5th Brooklyn Half this coming May...)</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7XykUBumqgX8I-NiuzmK8gY4ZIbyTNcSYB51sjc_BQqwK7DcTtOLs0H-Q-ah2zTpkeRhOiVfrA5UItG3avJTEV8FE4Cf4dhbDp3jsLAwfm4MjypMLJgp0x_C8DT07e4rRmKpAI2Jfrrh6/s1600/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7XykUBumqgX8I-NiuzmK8gY4ZIbyTNcSYB51sjc_BQqwK7DcTtOLs0H-Q-ah2zTpkeRhOiVfrA5UItG3avJTEV8FE4Cf4dhbDp3jsLAwfm4MjypMLJgp0x_C8DT07e4rRmKpAI2Jfrrh6/s1600/giphy.gif" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
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Anyways.<br />
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Here's how things went down. I woke up on Sunday morning at 5:15 am to get dressed and prep. I want to complain but, to be honest, I have written way too many of these posts where I did this <i>TO MYSELF</i> so really....just....yeah.<br />
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I checked the weather hoping that the 30 degree plus wind prediction forecast had changed. Indeed it had. It was now <u><i>25 degrees</i></u>. Ugh.<br />
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Along with many other crazy wayward <strike>zombies</strike> runners, I made my way over to Central Park South to check my coat and some items for after the race.<br />
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It was cold. It was dark. And I was angry. I took a selfie of myself to exhibit my emotions:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwL3gyzXiZ9mHpSta_qcoivI2uFkwwRINWUMG1o4wPowU43Q317naje3mJwvKs0E-m31aY7lQeVIl3RDdRx19qm2j6KIQQ5FOKmeh86BaBdlgr1TSWpvfjmpQXDpcDt0ljW4YrBI6hVTBZ/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwL3gyzXiZ9mHpSta_qcoivI2uFkwwRINWUMG1o4wPowU43Q317naje3mJwvKs0E-m31aY7lQeVIl3RDdRx19qm2j6KIQQ5FOKmeh86BaBdlgr1TSWpvfjmpQXDpcDt0ljW4YrBI6hVTBZ/s1600/photo+5.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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...and then upon review realized something...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMLHhKoe_beDQoaTUviOKz05KIcSxbFnhJ2lgKcvnKn44q7C-IgkQqkToGkzHsr0Iwl45RW4kPAcI2rOg5vW8EInkV3hOdEZUHW5YvR4gZUPRhOyRS0kmUcTofFiC401r6HtojkGSf2MN5/s1600/photo+1+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMLHhKoe_beDQoaTUviOKz05KIcSxbFnhJ2lgKcvnKn44q7C-IgkQqkToGkzHsr0Iwl45RW4kPAcI2rOg5vW8EInkV3hOdEZUHW5YvR4gZUPRhOyRS0kmUcTofFiC401r6HtojkGSf2MN5/s1600/photo+1+(2).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwL3gyzXiZ9mHpSta_qcoivI2uFkwwRINWUMG1o4wPowU43Q317naje3mJwvKs0E-m31aY7lQeVIl3RDdRx19qm2j6KIQQ5FOKmeh86BaBdlgr1TSWpvfjmpQXDpcDt0ljW4YrBI6hVTBZ/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwL3gyzXiZ9mHpSta_qcoivI2uFkwwRINWUMG1o4wPowU43Q317naje3mJwvKs0E-m31aY7lQeVIl3RDdRx19qm2j6KIQQ5FOKmeh86BaBdlgr1TSWpvfjmpQXDpcDt0ljW4YrBI6hVTBZ/s1600/photo+5.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Yep, we are starting to look alike. It's amazing. I'm going to give you a moment to let that sink in. And then another moment for you to collect yourself.</div>
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We good? Good. Let's continue.</div>
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The baggage check area was a little bit of a hot mess. But then again, so am I, so who am I to judge? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0KP_tTu9KxNsf_wMuPs-3yrM8J7YrZCxUO1coCsho5CSiSHaMur8Wscbw0oaj2VzWyA_kIhfbxEeKqei6Cos3VW5SRk2CleM330DGud5E3VVP3DXKYg-rAkV1uDUgocGnAHeGBKbjPu4/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0KP_tTu9KxNsf_wMuPs-3yrM8J7YrZCxUO1coCsho5CSiSHaMur8Wscbw0oaj2VzWyA_kIhfbxEeKqei6Cos3VW5SRk2CleM330DGud5E3VVP3DXKYg-rAkV1uDUgocGnAHeGBKbjPu4/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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By 7 am I had to peel myself away from my puffy coat and make my way through security. I thought I had <i>plenty</i> of time before my 7:45 start, but security was out of control and took me nearly 30 minutes to get through.<br />
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In this day and age -- given what happened last year in Boston -- it makes sense and I'm not going to argue it. It is what it is. I suppose to run these big, world-class events, it's a reality that we are just going to have to live with. But for those of you thinking of running a big race? Leave yourself time. And bring hand warmers (mine may have saved my life!)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVpzr8Hlt1JqEP0Hxuovz0JGSJVQVlmM7tbqSiYyQvDftxiAx0Ie_YS9VTSmRp2aeNHpHcK1agkRHEq2YjoNAZv01qr-e9lFH9wvAMBhrdhQM1DIA687w7hbWp_iBAEnRROy1dIdIeFvck/s1600/photo+1+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVpzr8Hlt1JqEP0Hxuovz0JGSJVQVlmM7tbqSiYyQvDftxiAx0Ie_YS9VTSmRp2aeNHpHcK1agkRHEq2YjoNAZv01qr-e9lFH9wvAMBhrdhQM1DIA687w7hbWp_iBAEnRROy1dIdIeFvck/s1600/photo+1+(3).JPG" height="273" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Through the annoyance of security, sunrise in Central Park is always a happy thing.</td></tr>
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Wave 1 began at 7:30 and then fifteen minutes later my Wave started. The course began at 72nd Street on the East side of the park and ran counter-clockwise around the park to start (including a brief detour at Central Park North). </div>
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Just past Mile 4, I had a little cheering squad waiting for me including Silvia, Rachel, Nicole and -- #1 Fan -- Betsy. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_MMw1R30JdsEZ6kzS1-IsreiuAFMJZCrWZ_a-ZdW1m-IZZaufBI3IgButR3cR0Ay1e3hHZg9Yz5Td9_1lRNwJrOI5YfQfap5k2lfscqqlF-Gafr-k8X_O7wA9QiagNnqndunlS2hr8QSf/s1600/photo+2+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_MMw1R30JdsEZ6kzS1-IsreiuAFMJZCrWZ_a-ZdW1m-IZZaufBI3IgButR3cR0Ay1e3hHZg9Yz5Td9_1lRNwJrOI5YfQfap5k2lfscqqlF-Gafr-k8X_O7wA9QiagNnqndunlS2hr8QSf/s1600/photo+2+(2).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I took a blurry photo of them while I was runnin'! TALENT.</td></tr>
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<i><b>Remember...#1 fan is a tier, not a person.</b></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitNWOvkXxaBCFIFQTfW4AlNLKkqLm2GSuEZ7iW77DF7CItRwAXCQvIL6IIDecSK_H-361bAvvcX7mlJDybwef6rrhzkrMtXNBQI7x-kxXV3X2Y4WzESucGrzeMmieDYO72cYjkynUXV9nG/s1600/0cc5d203de3b21211e7e792df22396b6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitNWOvkXxaBCFIFQTfW4AlNLKkqLm2GSuEZ7iW77DF7CItRwAXCQvIL6IIDecSK_H-361bAvvcX7mlJDybwef6rrhzkrMtXNBQI7x-kxXV3X2Y4WzESucGrzeMmieDYO72cYjkynUXV9nG/s1600/0cc5d203de3b21211e7e792df22396b6.jpg" height="166" width="400" /></a></div>
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The course exited the south of the park around mile 6 and started my favorite stretch of almost any run. Ever. </div>
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They shut down Times Square...and you run through it! THROUGH TIMES SQUARE!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_T6MGLQkRzQt9u_YsHNK-qrL8gWTdMDJwDCTV_qHG8g-Ta85OVid1vn5d1T2kMhGHj4_D6Nq5MaKOq-c0AYEIy5BoNW8aoyGpA-ujUj9FI1gacN4bqaf9VDRsCrgiRz4LQUAdkGQ81g8I/s1600/photo+3+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_T6MGLQkRzQt9u_YsHNK-qrL8gWTdMDJwDCTV_qHG8g-Ta85OVid1vn5d1T2kMhGHj4_D6Nq5MaKOq-c0AYEIy5BoNW8aoyGpA-ujUj9FI1gacN4bqaf9VDRsCrgiRz4LQUAdkGQ81g8I/s1600/photo+3+(2).JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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This -- by the way -- is the <u>only </u>acceptable time for a New York-er to enjoy this hellhole of a neighborhood.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_1esj5upTixf6IKMGgdtTnoJvs8ZGaSOsGl2nMoGqhnqDJHk10MRELOUg6e21EPkaBcV7MiPLTqyUhA3z_HAUeDCCzPZ8X5WAplAePG9ehPYByv1KKww3zejG_tvqI7xJ6F1IvyKPN5lQ/s1600/photo+5+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_1esj5upTixf6IKMGgdtTnoJvs8ZGaSOsGl2nMoGqhnqDJHk10MRELOUg6e21EPkaBcV7MiPLTqyUhA3z_HAUeDCCzPZ8X5WAplAePG9ehPYByv1KKww3zejG_tvqI7xJ6F1IvyKPN5lQ/s1600/photo+5+(2).JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAh2OFgFzWfO5ysHdGlf_Y99CPGKaMvzwaBWvzWyIL9aCz3Mx3sCgWKiCF0-8YGCuCi_NZe3r0uddAy2TdSD65Na4NfZOpIR_Ot3pVAFCL587SuBFZgAcqSIdCtOZzM8FQRiQ_47G4hbfS/s1600/photo+4+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAh2OFgFzWfO5ysHdGlf_Y99CPGKaMvzwaBWvzWyIL9aCz3Mx3sCgWKiCF0-8YGCuCi_NZe3r0uddAy2TdSD65Na4NfZOpIR_Ot3pVAFCL587SuBFZgAcqSIdCtOZzM8FQRiQ_47G4hbfS/s1600/photo+4+(2).JPG" height="400" width="278" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me enjoying Times Square. Running Selfie!!!!</td></tr>
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The race then took a right on 42nd Street and ran to the West Side Highway. We turned left, and then ran South to finish near the tip of Manhattan.<br />
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I finished in 1:58:27. My 2nd best time ever and my 3rd time at sub-2:00.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXGOmXgarGzvt1B2VYCkvgbe4RY-uPJ35Y97Qx7f6gKJF2cZde9NlO8K1p_nXNgREJOnQCdFLquwCUuupzl4rGGax6KLJRM1zBwg0FHSphIaUXBnNtIc4Se5Uc9octzXDfsVHo1t4ZbJkk/s1600/photo+3.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXGOmXgarGzvt1B2VYCkvgbe4RY-uPJ35Y97Qx7f6gKJF2cZde9NlO8K1p_nXNgREJOnQCdFLquwCUuupzl4rGGax6KLJRM1zBwg0FHSphIaUXBnNtIc4Se5Uc9octzXDfsVHo1t4ZbJkk/s1600/photo+3.PNG" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out my hot splits</td></tr>
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What was most astounding -- and pleasing -- about this time is that I am smack dab in the middle of marathon training mode. I'm sore. I'm tired. And I certainly haven't tapered. I am in shape, but this was not the main event. And, to me? That's pretty amazing.</div>
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Now, what Run, MeriG. Run race recap would be complete without the obligatory "try to pose for the professional photos" photos? A <i>boring</i> recap, that's what. So without further ado:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnWy5S0uwtOYg5X_RKFc22o2sSHIORe6I4mLD9PxVGHI3pmawULXDrP74zwWnZtvB_CsSJxHb3xKN0fYgWwR0ROc-NCH7vT8wqy0-jNJKfwElza2aI76cQo6f4I7C7EzUNglPFwk7OEPs6/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnWy5S0uwtOYg5X_RKFc22o2sSHIORe6I4mLD9PxVGHI3pmawULXDrP74zwWnZtvB_CsSJxHb3xKN0fYgWwR0ROc-NCH7vT8wqy0-jNJKfwElza2aI76cQo6f4I7C7EzUNglPFwk7OEPs6/s1600/Picture1.png" height="400" width="363" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peace signs in Time Square</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVAsY2N1-icR_cMv5BnVGC1B2yDr1KhFrnjfAaNsg9nS4fpQy3Prwxk92CDi0Ex2ScL_ISve3RfW9nzH7Knus2WnewYTrbE-z00s4Wt-xFcBmdDwvGM0aWovZlrVDOyQ9uvoYHhLszrvir/s1600/Picture4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVAsY2N1-icR_cMv5BnVGC1B2yDr1KhFrnjfAaNsg9nS4fpQy3Prwxk92CDi0Ex2ScL_ISve3RfW9nzH7Knus2WnewYTrbE-z00s4Wt-xFcBmdDwvGM0aWovZlrVDOyQ9uvoYHhLszrvir/s1600/Picture4.png" height="400" width="372" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting ready to blow a kiss.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqehv6sRd6ujP83_Qs0fYUG3UMN0WZ-wa2JXzFSwh7PJ_l_7grrIby-OcQm4OhJ7ljVaDeZYKnUUoO0m2SxG2DZFBKYTtus5Z_3uEsCDowao7iK_ER548NyHukVhNx3byDN-1GnvNZOeMt/s1600/Picture5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqehv6sRd6ujP83_Qs0fYUG3UMN0WZ-wa2JXzFSwh7PJ_l_7grrIby-OcQm4OhJ7ljVaDeZYKnUUoO0m2SxG2DZFBKYTtus5Z_3uEsCDowao7iK_ER548NyHukVhNx3byDN-1GnvNZOeMt/s1600/Picture5.png" height="400" width="372" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blowin' that kiss in an oh so sexy manner.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU2A1XKM-8edO11_3LNMj_pQrA9XDQ5_WUCWvvEalgIaA-JWyVijfqBzemwYkBxgrZmugF_8xWLey536ENs8LLM49zc6vLFbsHw0_tb5Y73vgEWz_cB8VbXQfrzPu4zGHbNPu85iBR_obQ/s1600/Picture3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU2A1XKM-8edO11_3LNMj_pQrA9XDQ5_WUCWvvEalgIaA-JWyVijfqBzemwYkBxgrZmugF_8xWLey536ENs8LLM49zc6vLFbsHw0_tb5Y73vgEWz_cB8VbXQfrzPu4zGHbNPu85iBR_obQ/s1600/Picture3.png" height="400" width="373" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little excited in Central Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjx9mW6dyzxZyadqV9c_Sn3alJ0UTorerYZ52J-iW8fgsbPmIb7jSYiChltUjCRuMj36BfKdvN6LBpG0IS7HxgrS6HjVKMiiEitq5FeDSvzwdYE7_xCYl7toxGxOLxxYkArtsXqnP8osej/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjx9mW6dyzxZyadqV9c_Sn3alJ0UTorerYZ52J-iW8fgsbPmIb7jSYiChltUjCRuMj36BfKdvN6LBpG0IS7HxgrS6HjVKMiiEitq5FeDSvzwdYE7_xCYl7toxGxOLxxYkArtsXqnP8osej/s1600/Picture2.png" height="400" width="386" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pushing it to the finish. I don't PLAY.</td></tr>
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My 13th Half was a great experience, and one I highly recommend for any runner -- be you advanced or looking for your first Half. The crowds are wonderful. It's relatively flat. The scenery couldn't be better. And the energy of 20,000 other runners propels you. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieCxKh33YHSpA1u1xGxvZH27VboJF-F8R9J9PMgmpFPw1jBYaZIeurtCOYL5jc68ield16ULWNt1WIAUHyyfSKERkV7EtckEeWvct75827GqIgzsPcUgInyu2J0sLiYP9BEYMoJBGZ6eLA/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieCxKh33YHSpA1u1xGxvZH27VboJF-F8R9J9PMgmpFPw1jBYaZIeurtCOYL5jc68ield16ULWNt1WIAUHyyfSKERkV7EtckEeWvct75827GqIgzsPcUgInyu2J0sLiYP9BEYMoJBGZ6eLA/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now? The fun just begins. In exactly a month from tomorrow I'll be at the starting line of Boston. Between now and then I have two more long (looooooong runs) and then what I've decided will be a delicious taper. And my<a href="http://www.rundfmc.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=1078599&supid=381989323"> fundraising for Dana-Farber</a>? Well that has been nothing short of <u><b>amazing</b></u>. </div>
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With the support of my amazing donors and after this NYC Half experience, I feel confident, I feel calm, I feel strong, and I feel ready to tackle the world. In short? I've never felt better.</div>
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<b><a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/11/part-iii-merig-runs-nyc-marathon-now.html" style="color: #4646d6; text-decoration: none;">I am running the Boston Marathon with the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge</a>! I have raised an astounding $9,325 towards my goal of $10,000+! Find our more or donate here: </b><a href="http://www.rundfmc.org/2014/merig" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.runDFMC.org/2014/merig</a></div>
Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-29639203026299586942014-03-07T15:02:00.003-05:002014-03-07T15:02:41.532-05:00Race Recap: Hyannis Half Marathon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On February 23rd, I completed my 12th official half marathon about a half an hour away from home in Hyannis, Mass. I had heard about this race for years, but always thought:<i> </i>"A February Half Marathon on Cape Cod sounds like a terrible idea." And I'm sure in other years, it really and truly is (except for the crazies!)</div>
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This year, though, I was training for Boston. And I like to add Halfs into my training plan to keep things broken up and so I don't have to carry water for long runs (I like a good fuel station!) Since this race was so close to my parents, I also would get a good combo visit. Little did I know when I signed up for this several months ago that this would be<i>, </i>in fact, my <i>warmest</i> run of the training season. At about 45 degrees, I felt downright warm at points. It was great.</div>
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My friend Meghan slept over my parents' the night before, and then my #1 fan club drove us to Hyannis in the morning to pick up our bibs, see the cute little expo they had going on, and get ready to start.</div>
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My parents had never been to a pre-race bib pick up / expo situation. At first I don't think they understood why I was getting so excited at the Bondi Band station. </div>
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Parent: <i>"Um...Don't you have, like, a dozen of those already?" </i></div>
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Me: <i>"YES BUT I NEED MORE." </i></div>
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Parent: <i>"Now? </i></div>
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Me: <i>"</i>NOW."</div>
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But then they got really into it.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlHgaVmalHv7FeO474-zkOUesJls3NzgXYHsUU8GKwOzQBHGMO5THEHcDXTPy8Lf-cfO003kuNftt2f6Px7I4ncRgtblfOhhEvnPfLYoSmtM_Psz8FVlq0GP70zLTLHMQRCXxOpxxMLXK/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlHgaVmalHv7FeO474-zkOUesJls3NzgXYHsUU8GKwOzQBHGMO5THEHcDXTPy8Lf-cfO003kuNftt2f6Px7I4ncRgtblfOhhEvnPfLYoSmtM_Psz8FVlq0GP70zLTLHMQRCXxOpxxMLXK/s1600/photo+3.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perusing the goods</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ZXqqXpyVuorlUhxDr3B3ElmGIAURhW2F4s3NYyGzSoeXbF3HAydX0UKjtcDlLpqRI64All-OjV8gicU2emttt0okRUWpPlbV2F4TpDqJmJFBjwybd6PVdNgEDebO5baMh-1j3hgcoW5b/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ZXqqXpyVuorlUhxDr3B3ElmGIAURhW2F4s3NYyGzSoeXbF3HAydX0UKjtcDlLpqRI64All-OjV8gicU2emttt0okRUWpPlbV2F4TpDqJmJFBjwybd6PVdNgEDebO5baMh-1j3hgcoW5b/s1600/photo+4.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Run like an animal"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjleLS6O1T9ujWb_oHoO5aWbmqwJGpNE5ipY4bRn8uOkVZ3rxpqmi-fTBv7tjp0ilHUzvIRpEqy82m7nTHVO2vW-SNAuhWLEyXqpHkRdjOPJjeXNRxfFlJJqMrY4jnAMn0cPUC6dqdSchdW/s1600/photo+1+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjleLS6O1T9ujWb_oHoO5aWbmqwJGpNE5ipY4bRn8uOkVZ3rxpqmi-fTBv7tjp0ilHUzvIRpEqy82m7nTHVO2vW-SNAuhWLEyXqpHkRdjOPJjeXNRxfFlJJqMrY4jnAMn0cPUC6dqdSchdW/s1600/photo+1+%25282%2529.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I Run So I Can Drink"</td></tr>
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I purchased myself a new goodie to add into the rotation and which I wore for the race. It was just so damn <i>hot</i> out at 45 degrees...I didn't need my winter hat so I needed some fun headgear!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6rHrJbMad2KkHkWB4MINnMEMAoGBykazrUXUzCuHYeYFMr9-QA8uhqsyjgg92c_e7WPVevblMZ1onv-9fUNtkn9G-XrOx_c4ZbL-ItHEQ_rasXvmqNFoFfBRk25iFGJU8l1X8CxDk_Rf3/s1600/photo+5+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6rHrJbMad2KkHkWB4MINnMEMAoGBykazrUXUzCuHYeYFMr9-QA8uhqsyjgg92c_e7WPVevblMZ1onv-9fUNtkn9G-XrOx_c4ZbL-ItHEQ_rasXvmqNFoFfBRk25iFGJU8l1X8CxDk_Rf3/s1600/photo+5+%25284%2529.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Truth</td></tr>
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At the expo I also got a first in-person glance at the 2014 Boston Marathon jackets that everyone has been hating on so much. I mean, I do see their point. It does, in fact, look like a traffic cone.</div>
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<a href="http://a248.e.akamai.net/f/248/9086/10h/origin-d5.scene7.com/is/image/adidasgroup/D80169_01?wid=500&hei=500&fmt=jpeg&qlt=92,0&resMode=sharp2&op_usm=1.1,0.5,1,0" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://a248.e.akamai.net/f/248/9086/10h/origin-d5.scene7.com/is/image/adidasgroup/D80169_01?wid=500&hei=500&fmt=jpeg&qlt=92,0&resMode=sharp2&op_usm=1.1,0.5,1,0" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Is it a bit...much? Yes. Will it make me look like I'm directing traffic at a sporting event? Yes. But will I never get shot if running in the woods? YES. </div>
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Looks like I have an $120 purchase to make come April. I have no choice, because I don't want to go the way of Bambi's mom.</div>
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Some more pre-start pics:</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBT4tZbrd_6TU1uVL_8COHIWWMZklnccyP6JWWqwyRebI9xs695IPuvXlGcCeCnjBKuX7Q0-5xVE8-dsrKytg0H09wlCHHiBYtU9UkGZpne8ZCXovVheYdI6BkXD4tVsgPbDD0hw_9Yhno/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBT4tZbrd_6TU1uVL_8COHIWWMZklnccyP6JWWqwyRebI9xs695IPuvXlGcCeCnjBKuX7Q0-5xVE8-dsrKytg0H09wlCHHiBYtU9UkGZpne8ZCXovVheYdI6BkXD4tVsgPbDD0hw_9Yhno/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meg and I </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUSa47ACuPjpZ3dTO-KSNk24BQEZSoOaU4wZNNswpoyIVhoFNsRstI639l75If3xJVYmggrA7lblNTaHG1rYYHmjhDp6m-_3hnzz6bqF0Rqbk_L72mIa_-3vNxFFWIram6SELhYOtOSmPS/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUSa47ACuPjpZ3dTO-KSNk24BQEZSoOaU4wZNNswpoyIVhoFNsRstI639l75If3xJVYmggrA7lblNTaHG1rYYHmjhDp6m-_3hnzz6bqF0Rqbk_L72mIa_-3vNxFFWIram6SELhYOtOSmPS/s1600/photo+5.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Mom takes her role as race Sherpa very seriously</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_SCB5xCifYDIr_Rvlsb4CRiFKpRjWwxRlSrWTAzie-4r74uVTYbDdAJIUnBWb8mKUBXNw3gmrhbbcPfcTLrbpiD9sNW9BNFdnCPxhNGHx6Uv1JShU2Mde2qOnueu41EuqoID3SmKo92cf/s1600/DSCN0883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_SCB5xCifYDIr_Rvlsb4CRiFKpRjWwxRlSrWTAzie-4r74uVTYbDdAJIUnBWb8mKUBXNw3gmrhbbcPfcTLrbpiD9sNW9BNFdnCPxhNGHx6Uv1JShU2Mde2qOnueu41EuqoID3SmKo92cf/s1600/DSCN0883.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Love this picture....no idea what we are cracking up about</td></tr>
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The course as a whole was really great. The beginning was probably too tight for the ~4,500 people (4,000 Half-Marathoners, 400 Marathoners and 100 Marathon Relay participants) and I found myself running much slower than I wanted and weaving a lot. Since this was a training run for me, I didn't care...but would have probably been annoyed if I was attempting a PR.<br />
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But the rest of the course more than made up for these minor misfortunes.<br />
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Some parts were residential, but just so "Cape Cod"-y cute!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLdRgbCqReb6_tjfPYPWpDqX8GvLxj0QXFklmliGq6dtuNU8CgSXI_wpVH1zpDYa09AujMdIA0m8tHV4lHkpZ9YFmnH8Uu5VHuQSSc8ILnrMg__Ug_AHqjk5HrD0LT14KmOf9Gj-MxIBvv/s1600/photo+4+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLdRgbCqReb6_tjfPYPWpDqX8GvLxj0QXFklmliGq6dtuNU8CgSXI_wpVH1zpDYa09AujMdIA0m8tHV4lHkpZ9YFmnH8Uu5VHuQSSc8ILnrMg__Ug_AHqjk5HrD0LT14KmOf9Gj-MxIBvv/s1600/photo+4+%25282%2529.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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There was one area -- once the field had long thinned out around miles 10-11 or so -- that we had to go nearly single-file on a main road. It was a bit unfortunate, but no big deal.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN_kCQBe6fOtQEAtmnnY3K6hwh2QQSAiybbRno6noG1j6s2zjwm_7LmQnoj9VV_b28psOAoCsbl3EeBTRnpQ96gn7ALKmUHWkqefxRDC6DP5Z92ZQBsK1xiHs3JkxZhMGdMWHi13v3wXpC/s1600/photo+3+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN_kCQBe6fOtQEAtmnnY3K6hwh2QQSAiybbRno6noG1j6s2zjwm_7LmQnoj9VV_b28psOAoCsbl3EeBTRnpQ96gn7ALKmUHWkqefxRDC6DP5Z92ZQBsK1xiHs3JkxZhMGdMWHi13v3wXpC/s1600/photo+3+%25283%2529.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br />But mostly it was just downright gorgeous. It was iconic Cape Cod through and through.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVIwK53EjUIKEgKBi-uwkpj_C29XvbzSPLQHMTT-lIwSpDYxO4UJatu5rYOdrfL5Ns0ThigcfBx-7SJHZGqc6B56isXYK5uGey_jxCq2xIMEikoTB2GUh4Gfn8SB6qbYMI8eLiJ0-y3-bW/s1600/photo+1+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVIwK53EjUIKEgKBi-uwkpj_C29XvbzSPLQHMTT-lIwSpDYxO4UJatu5rYOdrfL5Ns0ThigcfBx-7SJHZGqc6B56isXYK5uGey_jxCq2xIMEikoTB2GUh4Gfn8SB6qbYMI8eLiJ0-y3-bW/s1600/photo+1+(3).JPG" height="351" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdxZSabajpRaHBckMNYNROuGwd67p1iQGc1_xuDJgcIYYyoL_LJ7kTItYIxrbuV8chKD8x3GVyYYyXqhhfwYBQbnudbWgpDg6HmvEQYFZsiarnV-M3h1MxikEoTqPOERRgmVfxp3vOhBdr/s1600/photo+2+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdxZSabajpRaHBckMNYNROuGwd67p1iQGc1_xuDJgcIYYyoL_LJ7kTItYIxrbuV8chKD8x3GVyYYyXqhhfwYBQbnudbWgpDg6HmvEQYFZsiarnV-M3h1MxikEoTqPOERRgmVfxp3vOhBdr/s1600/photo+2+(2).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjoNiZUySP-li7-LN7vColIlkKVCiaQXwDIMPRDoOFXaLpMGzKoawx0t6hU0x4SBIYz4nCCq7JC5NbCdOJzybh2RZunq6sHwqDfoBBzffzpNN6gY00r8TtwTn0B3n7Swjt2luee79YaSYO/s1600/photo+2+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjoNiZUySP-li7-LN7vColIlkKVCiaQXwDIMPRDoOFXaLpMGzKoawx0t6hU0x4SBIYz4nCCq7JC5NbCdOJzybh2RZunq6sHwqDfoBBzffzpNN6gY00r8TtwTn0B3n7Swjt2luee79YaSYO/s1600/photo+2+(3).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Run, Meg, Run!<br /></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvv-NdJyhUjC1YmxceXqWhm8Ucjc8fCLDlgJXOBfa42F1BNt-VD4RoCcxkJU_fF6uOQCpXFaKQoJ-hVWdZSoSvx31A3DGsal-qNuVxzNg_Po20tWuFEK8vmZmAj3cSC5gn38IUhodkH3az/s1600/photo+5+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvv-NdJyhUjC1YmxceXqWhm8Ucjc8fCLDlgJXOBfa42F1BNt-VD4RoCcxkJU_fF6uOQCpXFaKQoJ-hVWdZSoSvx31A3DGsal-qNuVxzNg_Po20tWuFEK8vmZmAj3cSC5gn38IUhodkH3az/s1600/photo+5+(2).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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My parents, as always, had mapped out the course and were ready to cheer us on. We saw them around miles 3, 6 and 11 and my Dad had the camera ready to capture the magic.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6KQkvykHc_ULV1gzplp2StGpjLRwQHn1Ej0MN6tUcC2SWTIj4v-5NX6W4lRz3oUQGkh5tye1tGhMn9E1iuvARfeQocVMQ7i6tU5mdjiOZpgm3mo1vuqKLOnMCPGZ8nAVPH-RABDkbhMLO/s1600/DSCN0886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6KQkvykHc_ULV1gzplp2StGpjLRwQHn1Ej0MN6tUcC2SWTIj4v-5NX6W4lRz3oUQGkh5tye1tGhMn9E1iuvARfeQocVMQ7i6tU5mdjiOZpgm3mo1vuqKLOnMCPGZ8nAVPH-RABDkbhMLO/s1600/DSCN0886.JPG" height="288" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love my #1 Fans!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9W0-8opU7w7_80v7z7tAnjksJE2lgzRK3qLiwlvEri7B1YDr23zrjcwdbbGOU2lb77wJXSTk-F7gwKJI4uEf9vluuIAqiILE_OFglHBwPkrGpWSMJL5Do_HxikSIpvuW_1Kpurl10Mo1Q/s1600/DSCN0888_A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9W0-8opU7w7_80v7z7tAnjksJE2lgzRK3qLiwlvEri7B1YDr23zrjcwdbbGOU2lb77wJXSTk-F7gwKJI4uEf9vluuIAqiILE_OFglHBwPkrGpWSMJL5Do_HxikSIpvuW_1Kpurl10Mo1Q/s1600/DSCN0888_A.JPG" height="242" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiiiiiiiii!</td></tr>
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Here is a video of me handing Meghan and my sweaty clothes to my mother that my Dad chose to capture. I've decided to share with you for no good reason except you've read this far, so it may amuse you:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxM_mA6lRNm1uuq9_3m7LoisKyd2Fw5WJP4SDBNL3QS-E8G-Sjx4lMgYIR3eTOy-pp_KZQaamc5fPWote2DNA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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It was such a pleasure running with Meghan the whole time. We have known each other since Sophomore year in college and it's been wonderful having this common hobby with her. She's also running the Boston Marathon for a wonderful group called the <a href="http://www.crowdrise.com/Samaritans2014BostonMarathon/fundraiser/meghanshanahan">Samaritans</a>, a non-profit that works for suicide awareness and prevention.. Meghan was one of the people who -- after running 25.7 miles -- was <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/04/untitled.html">unable to finish the race last year</a>. I'm so happy that she was safe and so proud that she has decided to run again. </div>
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Neither of us were runners in college, so as we were running we kept saying things like, "If you had told me 10 years ago we would be running a Half Marathon together...I would have thrown up on you." or "Since when do we run <i>marathons?! </i>What is <i>happening!?" </i>Although she and I are both Marathoners, this whole being a "runner" thing still doesn't fully process for either of us.</div>
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Of course, I made Meg get foolish with me for the race photographers for posterity's sake. It was a new experience for her to make a complete ass of herself on the course, and I think she was doing it only to pacify me. Making funny faces and gestures at photographers is half the racing fun for me!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKX-_boAnrOCu1jzJ207v2EZa2VRkLB9grwX4hWu7z-Z5lhTciuarXxiV-huOgRDdK0uNM8MV4CZGRkwOtyurp0jeZbB0kQeAYkPPzn6_-Taa24HHLCk9KxPe-UYquK7p9ejQGKOmiNwbA/s1600/IMG_3656.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKX-_boAnrOCu1jzJ207v2EZa2VRkLB9grwX4hWu7z-Z5lhTciuarXxiV-huOgRDdK0uNM8MV4CZGRkwOtyurp0jeZbB0kQeAYkPPzn6_-Taa24HHLCk9KxPe-UYquK7p9ejQGKOmiNwbA/s1600/IMG_3656.png" height="400" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thumbs up.</td></tr>
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We finished in just over 2 hours and 2 minutes. A fantastic time for me and a <b>PR FOR HER! </b>I was so happy to be a part of her PR experience, and it was a pleasure running with her. So often with running friends you can feel like you are running too for someone or that you're holding your running buddy back. It's my experience that for the most part if someone wants to run in a pair or a group, that person won't care if the other is slightly slower than them. But I do think that it's always a bit uncomfortable for the runner who <i>perceives</i> themselves to be the slower one. You never want to feel like you ruined someone else's run, despite how ridiculous it might seem.<br />
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Weirdly -- and wonderfully -- Meghan and I were truly right on target with each other. I wish we lived closer so we could run together more often, but I guess we'll just have to make the most of our visits.<br />
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And make her sign up for more races with me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXU5c_KjtDW6Av1uYRQE3sb22kQVcDF4J2x4p39LNysjibJ3KKD8JzsgSkT6og8lRnYe6ZIg8aK-HRNmsboyxbN2jKkB1NIpqaUgr4s5MsWx5F4YVtH7melBuwP083Gopfs6xnQ3t7J3E/s1600/photo+5+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVXU5c_KjtDW6Av1uYRQE3sb22kQVcDF4J2x4p39LNysjibJ3KKD8JzsgSkT6og8lRnYe6ZIg8aK-HRNmsboyxbN2jKkB1NIpqaUgr4s5MsWx5F4YVtH7melBuwP083Gopfs6xnQ3t7J3E/s1600/photo+5+%25283%2529.JPG" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
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I loved the race medal at the end. Super adorable.<br />
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Overall, it was a great race and one I would absolutely recommend for anyone in the area, anyone looking for a great winter Half, and particularly anyone training for Boston. Maybe go crazy and do the Full! Or find three friends and do the Marathon Relay. The people doing that seemed to be having a great ol' time.<br />
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Like all good running events, the race was followed by a large, delicious brunch with my parents, my sister and her fiance. All-in-all it was the recipe for a perfect day: Family + friends + good run + sea air + eggs and corn beef hash = One happy MeriG.<br />
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<b><a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/11/part-iii-merig-runs-nyc-marathon-now.html" style="color: #4646d6; text-decoration: none;">I am running the Boston Marathon with the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge</a>! I have raised $8,358 towards my goal of $10,000! Find our more or donate here: </b><a href="http://www.rundfmc.org/2014/merig" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.runDFMC.org/2014/merig</a></div>
Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-27742366590083128332014-03-02T17:21:00.001-05:002014-03-07T14:20:45.895-05:00That One Time I Ran 16 Miles on a TreadmillIt was the best of times, it was the worst of times. It was feeling strong, it was feeling constantly rungry. It was the season of marathon training, it was the season of a Polar Vortex.<br />
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As you know, I've been struggling a bit with the cold. And by struggling I mean I am dying. DYING. But one does what one must. One puts on layers upon layers, bites the bullet, and gets out there. Once you get moving it truly isn't so bad.<br />
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But then two weekends ago I woke up to this:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The world is a solid sheet of ice!</td></tr>
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Now, I'll run in the cold but I will not -- I repeat -- NOT run in this. I am sorry. This is just wrong! The last thing I need is to end up <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2011/09/chronicles-of-boot.html">in a boot</a> again because I twisted my ankle running on ice. Keep in mind, you are reading the blog of a girl who has fallen not once but <i>twice</i> this winter season just <i>WALKING.</i><br />
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My longest run of the training season -- 16 miles -- was on the schedule and I wanted to stick to it. I knew that the weekend after (last weekend) I was going home to run the Hyannis Half. So, because I couldn't shift around my training plan due to this race I had only one solution: Off to the treadmill!<br />
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I've written about <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/01/dont-fear-treadmill.html">my non-hatred for the treadmill before</a>, and I've run up to 12 miles on this bundle of joy. However, 16 just seemed a little absurd. Then again, as you know, I am absurd myself. So this of course does fit the profile.<br />
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Now, you might think that over 2 1/2 hours on a treadmill would be hell. And, sure, it could have been. But there were three critical things that kept me going.<br />
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<b>1) My personal fueling station!</b><br />
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I got to the gym just after opening too pick one of the "good treadmills" (any NYSC-frequenter knows what I'm saying) and got myself set up for the long haul.<br />
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Water? Check. Towel? Check. Gus? Check. Gatorade? Check. Bag full of every potential pharmaceutical item I may need? Check. iPad and headphones? CHECK PLUS.<br />
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Often when I run outside I am either fidgeting with my belt or wishing that I had an item that I forgot. Especially in the winter when the water fountains are turned off around the city, I sometimes run out of water or -- worse -- dehydrate from not drinking enough.<br />
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The treadmill offered a nice personal little station where I could just lay out my stuff and settle in.<br />
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2) <b>This:</b><br />
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Hey. Girl. Hey.<br />
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I have started watching Friday Night Lights and spent the first 110 minutes miles lookin' at this. Oh, would you look at that! 11 miles done! How the time flies when the scenery is good...<br />
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And, sure, also two episodes of a very entertaining show too.<br />
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3) <b>Friendship:</b><br />
Miles 11-16 I was accompanied by my friend Jazmin (who I met training for 2012 NYC Marathon with Team for Kids) and Brittney (who I met through the Twitter!) They joined me for those last five miles and distracted me while I trudged to the finish. Running friends truly are the best.<br />
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The limit of the time you're allowed to be on the treadmills at my gym when there is a line is <i>sliiiiightly</i> less than the nearly 2 1/2 hours that I needed. By about two hours. Luckily there was no one waiting until about 1 1/2 hours in. Even more luckily, I am a jerk and just kept going.<br />
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My heartfelt apologies to anyone who had to wait a little bit longer because of me. I feel a bit sheepish.<br />
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All-in-all I made it through relatively unscathed. Would I do it again? Only if I had to. Am I glad I did it? Kind of! Although this winter has been a bit hellish, with each run that pushes me to a new experience or to a limit I didn't know I could surpass, it reminds me that I'm doing something special and unique. It reminds me that a lot of amazing people have donated a <i>lot</i> of amazing money so that I can run for the Dana-Farber team. And it reminds me -- as running tends to do -- that anything really is possible if you put your mind to it.<br />
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Except touching my toes. This seems to be an elusive and unattainable feat.<br />
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<b style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/11/part-iii-merig-runs-nyc-marathon-now.html" style="color: #4646d6; text-decoration: none;">I am running the Boston Marathon with the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge</a>! I have raised an amazing $8,163 towards my goal of $10,000! Find our more or donate here: </b><a href="http://www.rundfmc.org/2014/merig" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.runDFMC.org/2014/merig</a>Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-50173516533882139042014-02-13T23:04:00.000-05:002014-02-13T23:04:23.446-05:00Holding Myself Back<div>
I've started reaching the long mileage portion of my Boston Marathon training. This is now -- to be clear -- the fifth marathon I've trained for (count 'em...New York '11...New York '12...Miami '13...New York '13...and now Boston). This should be old hat by now, right? </div>
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I have two points I'd like to make about this:</div>
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1) It is never easy to run 14 or 16 or 26.2 miles. Never. This is not easier now, but rather perhaps just a bit less daunting? Perhaps a bit more familiar? But not easy. Nuh-uh.</div>
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2) This:</div>
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Outside is a disaster, and Archie is not impressed. </div>
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During my New York and Miami training seasons I had my Team for Kid group or friends from the group that were there pretty consistently, not to mention running friends such as Kevin and Jen who made regular appearances in my training schedule. </div>
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For this particular marathon training, my running friends have wisely gone into hibernation and I am out there on my own.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/VjfmP7h3gBw?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">If you are a Les Mis fan, please do yourself a favor and watch Lea Salonga perform the greatest version of On My Own ever from the 10th Anniversary "Dream Cast." And then watch all the 10th Anniversary videos. You're welcome.</span></div>
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Two weekends ago I had done my normal Friday night spaghetti dinner and was readying myself for my normal early bedtime, and I was simply dreading the solo Saturday morning 12-miler I'd have to do. The idea of being out there in the cold for two hours alone was honestly the most demotivating feeling ever.</div>
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I was missing my running friends and the social aspect that I have come to associate so strongly with my long runs. I've gotten to know new people and I've gotten to make and spend time with some amazing friends. We commiserate, we cheer each other on, and we celebrate our mini-accomplishments. Without that camaraderie I'm just, like, running for hours. And that's decidedly not as fun.</div>
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Now, I've known for a while that running stores offer group runs. Nike, The Running Store, Lululemon and Jack Rabbit not only all offer runs, but I am actually on their mailing lists, following them on Facebook and on Twitter to see when these runs happen. <i>And I've never gone. </i>Not a once.</div>
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"That's....weird," you are saying to yourself. "You're very social and you're always up for meeting new people. Why haven't you been, MeriG? This seems like a no-brainer to me!"</div>
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Well, the short answer is: I didn't have the confidence to go. I was scared.</div>
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Here I am, just over 9 weeks away from running my third marathon. I have run 11 official Half Marathons. I now have a regular workout schedule that includes long runs, speed and hill shorter runs, yoga, and strength training. I eat poorly. (C'mon I can't be perfect!) But you would think that at this point after regularly running and working out for 6-ish years I would be somewhat confident in my abilities. Yes? </div>
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In my mind I'm still the chubby kid getting picked last in gym class. (Damn you, Mr. Coffin! Damn you!) I'm still the girl who more sauntered the mile rather than ran it. I'm the nerd, not the athlete.</div>
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And so, I assumed I would be too slow to keep up with all the ammaaazzzingggg people who go to running clubs. I pictured them and I got scared.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCgVOfz_8OCfE8m8vQE9rVDqlOZMFGpZmthlmiEdkS5eX2vL3Mbt8DLLSgaW7lY7T2kxk6bxRtIRVvCMnG1N_T9QM6c8KdCyRq1TeoNOSWDnZMJk3GeQs5dfo3OzO1SAlYtmYyBtN5ULHS/s1600/09-Boston-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCgVOfz_8OCfE8m8vQE9rVDqlOZMFGpZmthlmiEdkS5eX2vL3Mbt8DLLSgaW7lY7T2kxk6bxRtIRVvCMnG1N_T9QM6c8KdCyRq1TeoNOSWDnZMJk3GeQs5dfo3OzO1SAlYtmYyBtN5ULHS/s1600/09-Boston-19.jpg" height="306" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My view of them</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Ln0qTNaDBH81HwFawDE3OiWHkgzL3JcJhsVvNCcPvmTWvCa_aZxpx6Bxsl6Sc2ioIQv8FCGmZUTIDcUsFbgVdhemiUbFqmJtQ9P90N8SKOsXpDUAn5Tu8Ne_IaMLnRE6iq5pkv6Ngjgr/s1600/100835.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Ln0qTNaDBH81HwFawDE3OiWHkgzL3JcJhsVvNCcPvmTWvCa_aZxpx6Bxsl6Sc2ioIQv8FCGmZUTIDcUsFbgVdhemiUbFqmJtQ9P90N8SKOsXpDUAn5Tu8Ne_IaMLnRE6iq5pkv6Ngjgr/s1600/100835.gif" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My view of me</td></tr>
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On Saturday morning I woke up around 8 and while I was getting ready I couldn't stop thinking about <a href="http://www.jackrabbitsports.com/">Jack Rabbit</a>. It's a store <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2011/05/my-new-kicks.html">I've gone to for years</a> and I knew they that had a 9am group run that was advertised to be 10-11 miles. I decided then and there that I would stop being so lame and stop <i>thinking </i>and just put on my big girl pants (in this case warm running tights) and go check it out. I put money and a metro card in my fuel belt in case I wanted to bail out midway through or in case they left me behind or in case I hated it....and I was on my way.</div>
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The group met at the store (UES location, 84th and Lex) where we stood in a circle and introduced ourselves to the group. Some people were clearly regulars, but there were a bunch of other newbies. We had an opportunity to drop off bags and coats, use the restroom, get some water or grab a free Gu, and we were on our way.</div>
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<br />There was a group leader keeping tags of our little band of runners, and he led us on a route that took us up through Harlem and into Washington Heights on an out-and-back run that culminated in some amazing views and new terrain (although a bit icy for my taste...but I suppose that's unavoidable this year.)</div>
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Over the couple of hours that I was out there I not only saw some new sights, but I also got to talk to some really great people. And the time truly flew by. It was the type of training run I had learned to enjoy in the past and that I had really been missing.</div>
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There were people faster than me, and slower than me. Runners sped up, they slowed down, and they waited for each other after stoplights. I had absolutely nothing to be worried about, as I could more than keep up with the pack. </div>
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In the past, I was so worried that I wouldn't be able to keep up or that I would hold the group back...that I never actually had <i>tried</i>. And that's really the shame of it all. I went back to Jack Rabbit last week for a second time and plan on checking out the Upper West Side location this weekend (assuming mother nature doesn't want to put a wrench in that plan!) I had no reason to think so negatively about myself and my abilities. No, I'll never be the fastest in a group. And, yes, there was a point I may have been the slowest. But either way, who cares!? We're all out there to have a good time and not to <i>win</i> a race. AND I CAN GET PICKED IN GYM.<i> [Ahem, my apologies...I guess there's still some stuff deep in side of here...carry on.)</i></div>
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I notice that others are often more impressed of my accomplishments than I am. I finished the NYC Marathon in 4:24. To others, that's <i>amazing</i>. To me? I sometimes see the sub-4 that seems unattainable. Others are so impressed that I'd even <i>fathom</i> 12 miles in the cold, whereas I just saw the fact that I can't run faster than a 9-minute mile. </div>
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I'm trying to stop comparing. I need to start viewing my accomplishments and my abilities more on their own merit. Because there's a <u>lot </u>of that merit! And honestly, there always was. Although I always want to improve, I need to recognize that I have the ability to keep up with the pack <u>today</u>. Doubt is the only thing keeping me back, and not my speed or my stamina.</div>
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I can't wait to see where my run takes me this week!</div>
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<b><a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/11/part-iii-merig-runs-nyc-marathon-now.html" style="color: #4646d6; text-decoration: none;">I am running the Boston Marathon with the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge</a>! I have raised $6,665 towards my goal of $10,000! Find our more or donate here: </b><a href="http://www.rundfmc.org/2014/merig" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.runDFMC.org/2014/merig</a></div>
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Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-40133951528017511272014-02-02T14:13:00.002-05:002014-02-02T14:32:09.584-05:00Race Recap: The Coldest Run. Ever.Last week, I ran the Fred Lebow Manhattan Half Marathon in Central Park. It was my 11th official Half which I had signed up for as part of <a href="http://www.rundfmc.org/2014/merig">my Boston Marathon training</a> (11 weeks to go!)<br>
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When I signed up to run Boston as part of the Dana-Farber team, I knew that I would need to do two things:<br>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
1) Raise money (and it's going great!)<br>2) Train in the winter (meh....)</blockquote>
I thought I knew what I was getting into with the winter running due to my brief training for <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/02/miami-recap-part-ii-palindromic-finish.html">Miami</a> (exactly one year ago!) However, it turns out that last year was mild and that this winter is <i>THE WORST THING EVER.</i><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHxPpxz45ZH1ENb8U0cPJtRcI3gLtXkYDoWFHvHVGMtdl0qln90xOjBUsMMRV0NO7_YxZ-TAS_0HF_TNtEqHcz-5qqnETH_OcBG7wrmR2dHrKYz5CUXQyDWwpJKdmwaYZP1R54N5jaLhQ7/s1600/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHxPpxz45ZH1ENb8U0cPJtRcI3gLtXkYDoWFHvHVGMtdl0qln90xOjBUsMMRV0NO7_YxZ-TAS_0HF_TNtEqHcz-5qqnETH_OcBG7wrmR2dHrKYz5CUXQyDWwpJKdmwaYZP1R54N5jaLhQ7/s1600/giphy.gif" height="217" width="400"></a></div>
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<br>So I've been mostly cooped up inside, falling more in love with my treadmill by the day. But now that I am in the 12+ mileage zone for training, I can escape being outside no longer.<br>
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I woke up last Sunday morning to this:<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6xXOHqcJiSrLnVgJ_fyXjNH1c6nBIqHD4HVU3wHqRHa22EnRherVb0Lpxo-Wly9V94p0jLAGRK5yrkJbfcOPlN84WAUouiv1wVi2d4eA1plr8tulGglRspf3_7-Q8pb6-chyphenhyphenydMBI7sJq/s1600/photo+1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6xXOHqcJiSrLnVgJ_fyXjNH1c6nBIqHD4HVU3wHqRHa22EnRherVb0Lpxo-Wly9V94p0jLAGRK5yrkJbfcOPlN84WAUouiv1wVi2d4eA1plr8tulGglRspf3_7-Q8pb6-chyphenhyphenydMBI7sJq/s1600/photo+1.PNG" height="400" width="225"></a></div>
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With the wind, the real feel was solidly in the single digits. Wonderful.<br>
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Once I was out there? It honestly wasn't so bad. The hardest part of the experience is actually just having the mental ability to get out of your toasty bed and getting dressed.<br>
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Ever want to do something like this? Here's exactly what you need to do and wear step-by-step to to succeed:<br>
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<b>STEP 1: Base Layer</b><br>
* Thick Tights<br>
* Thick wool socks (not the normal every day ones)<br>
* TIGHT base layer made of hi-tech gear like the one I'm wearing from <a href="http://www.craftsports.us/crafthome.php">Craft</a><br>
* Hat (in my opinion ear warmer alone won't cut it<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXzcVKhmtAU-TqttCkSotPVn7furg8uMODH0fjrxgYeCMyBjeKlsFbMz6G-bJcmbxo5nCth9gsRurhjoyKd4YNbmahwrJI9yRmdRKdx7weB-rB9ZeS_Jw51FIcsvTc5NcwFz5cUHo_Gxur/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXzcVKhmtAU-TqttCkSotPVn7furg8uMODH0fjrxgYeCMyBjeKlsFbMz6G-bJcmbxo5nCth9gsRurhjoyKd4YNbmahwrJI9yRmdRKdx7weB-rB9ZeS_Jw51FIcsvTc5NcwFz5cUHo_Gxur/s1600/photo+2.JPG" height="400" width="300"></a></div>
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<b>STEP 2: Middle layer</b></div>
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<b>* </b>Warm Jacket (I'm wearing a Brooks jacket here that I love, love, love)</div>
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* Neck warmer thing that you can pull up to your nose ($26 from a running store)</div>
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<b>STEP 3: Top Layer</b><br>
<b>* </b>Hood on over the hat, neck thingy pulled up<br>
* Water-proof wind breaker jacket<br>
* Thumbs up<br>
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<b>STEP 4: Important Final Touches</b></div>
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<b>* </b>Sunglasses for glare or in case wind bother eyes</div>
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* Gloves (I recommend ones that have a windbreaker that you can pull over the fingertips to basically create mittens)</div>
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* Gu (<i>obsessed</i> with the new Salty Caramel flavor!)</div>
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* Headphones</div>
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* Hand Warmers</div>
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* Money, Credit Card and Metro Card (in case I need supplies or to bail!)</div>
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* Vaseline lip balm (SO helpful)</div>
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And that's how you run in single-digit weather. Simple, right? Right? Totally fine....</div>
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<i><b>:::To be clear, I am rolling my eyes at myself right now:::</b></i></div>
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Once everything was on, I was officially sweating in my apartment, so I headed out towards the starting line (and by that, I mean I jumped immediately into a cab).</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">baller</td></tr>
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At first I was not into it at all. I wanted to direct the cab driver to turn back to my apartment, or perhaps to make a stop at a diner for some pancakes so we could forget the whole thing ever happened. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm so cold, Jack...</td></tr>
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Why would I do this to myself? I was tired. And cranky. And freezing. And I certainly didn't feel like doing two full loops of Central Park. Ughhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.</div>
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But then I looked around.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0812U2955ozXAhAGd7F3K05680ZaRJyX3r-dC_aS4CPJFjji7UkXqCvamRez9CTxOGwu_XNcVgqefpEXsmB2ez0dY1-Hl2JISHFlEHFIlVXWci4sPmjppZ3GxGDlS51_LEi5K4ya48h1A/s1600/photo+3+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0812U2955ozXAhAGd7F3K05680ZaRJyX3r-dC_aS4CPJFjji7UkXqCvamRez9CTxOGwu_XNcVgqefpEXsmB2ez0dY1-Hl2JISHFlEHFIlVXWci4sPmjppZ3GxGDlS51_LEi5K4ya48h1A/s1600/photo+3+%25282%2529.JPG" height="400" width="400"></a></div>
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And I realized that the morning was gorgeous and that the people around me were electric with positive energy. I realized that I was pushing myself to do something I had never done before by running in these temperatures. I realized that I had invested a <i>pretty penny</i> in all the layers I was wearing and that I was totally safe. It was only my mind stopping me. Physically...I was actually going to be fine.</div>
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It was only about a 10 minute wait at the starting line (timed perfectly by a <i>well worth it</i> cab ride to the start rather than arriving early or late due to public transportation) and we were off.</div>
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I met up with a new friend from my Dana-Farber group at the start and we ran a good portion of the race together. Between the company and my blood starting to flow after less than a mile, pretty soon I truly wasn't cold any more. In fact, I had to throw away my hand warmers, lower my neck thingy to my neck off my face, and take off my hood.</div>
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It was....weirdly okay. Yeah, I know. Evidently the hundreds of dollars of merchandise from the running stores does pay off!</div>
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The NYRR had done a great job getting the roads clear, so there was no ice. This was <i>crucial</i> and I honestly would not have done the race if there was ice on the roads. With my injury prone ankles and my clumsy demeanor, the risk of injury simply wouldn't have been worth it.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXxZMaf87pOPgJldhfihm-4U2FYTba5OZyC6FM9b1KusI-a9EMpDMCejZGvwBurYhuk6T3m0JyQ09XrJKIRYfBLudXum2FgBEq6WZld9NM-vi-aJRWnnT9aD7bz0MvMmlavB-K9UGh2BKi/s1600/Frozen-Sven-ice-slipping.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXxZMaf87pOPgJldhfihm-4U2FYTba5OZyC6FM9b1KusI-a9EMpDMCejZGvwBurYhuk6T3m0JyQ09XrJKIRYfBLudXum2FgBEq6WZld9NM-vi-aJRWnnT9aD7bz0MvMmlavB-K9UGh2BKi/s1600/Frozen-Sven-ice-slipping.gif" height="187" width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me on ice.</td></tr>
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<br>The volunteers were absolutely amazing. While the runners were just fine and dandy as we were moving and generating our own heat, there were tons of volunteers cheering us on and at water stations who must have been absolutely <i>dying.</i> They really were the impressive ones that day: not us! <div>
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The most interesting thing to me about the sub-freezing race was that you'd get to a station and the water and Gatorade would be <i>FROZEN. </i>You had to actually crack your cup against the table before drinking it. Craziness!<div>
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I did one loop, and then the second. Uneventfully (in a good way!) I finished in just shy of 2:05. This to me was a great time considering I was running as a training run as opposed to a goal time and it was literally my coldest run <i>ever!</i> I was really proud of myself.</div>
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If I had it to do over again, the only thing I would do differently is actually run the mile home as opposed to walk it. I started walking and was fine, but suddenly I was nearly overcome with the cold.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxSdWsZkYD7HMhRHzgIEzm4LUJDbM5AcCROX7jj6pB1By6boeQlTdKRxj0vEJjoRC0ArAYvOp1zYndAQITKRvrwINVrMsWHJYH19zW4TBNV2S0n1fz6byR_8vhuK7cUtkqx44yS36aKBUO/s1600/Frozen-Anna-cold.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxSdWsZkYD7HMhRHzgIEzm4LUJDbM5AcCROX7jj6pB1By6boeQlTdKRxj0vEJjoRC0ArAYvOp1zYndAQITKRvrwINVrMsWHJYH19zW4TBNV2S0n1fz6byR_8vhuK7cUtkqx44yS36aKBUO/s1600/Frozen-Anna-cold.gif" height="177" width="400"></a></div>
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The sweat and cold had caught up with me, and by then my legs had kind of seized up and I wasn't able to comfortably start running again. For the future? I'll take a cab the short mile or run. Lesson learned.<br>
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I arrived back home and took the most amazing hot shower of my life. Archie remained unimpressed.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY5xyYVGK5WdKaEge3D94HwgxEbBV9NmV1nqOBIegPovXXoE5sroogM-RubGs05o2dHHwZ52AGl-b9tXZv4XFP2_5KF9I6t5x9xOeJtTVceetf72CpepCvhdx4Lc59YQdat9WLDlXQXBVD/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY5xyYVGK5WdKaEge3D94HwgxEbBV9NmV1nqOBIegPovXXoE5sroogM-RubGs05o2dHHwZ52AGl-b9tXZv4XFP2_5KF9I6t5x9xOeJtTVceetf72CpepCvhdx4Lc59YQdat9WLDlXQXBVD/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="281" width="400"></a></div>
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That afternoon I got to celebrate my accomplishment by having Afternoon Tea at the Mandarin Oriental with my Mom and Aunt in honor of my Aunt's birthday! It was a wonderful afternoon and the perfect warming cap to a chilly day.<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_-Vt_Y5bXDxCVeZJf-i1UyzDIVLAiAjRyg9pYhIVYbb8f2zqeRoRPnJ39cz2jLgpYxQH4lVJQm4IX0cea8RSW2xvcHaFPHAvghIpA-f0jlv7IAfmdCiexPSCHVRRWQPZJykesD2da_OZB/s1600/photo+2+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_-Vt_Y5bXDxCVeZJf-i1UyzDIVLAiAjRyg9pYhIVYbb8f2zqeRoRPnJ39cz2jLgpYxQH4lVJQm4IX0cea8RSW2xvcHaFPHAvghIpA-f0jlv7IAfmdCiexPSCHVRRWQPZJykesD2da_OZB/s1600/photo+2+%25283%2529.JPG" height="300" width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two of the most wonderful women I know: My beautiful Aunt and Mom!!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvWGbWYm7_Docw-VihyphenhyphenusZJqesQhQXZUx5UmIrL0A6PmMZ2R01J0-j8dZAiX1Q3XxsjkEuyNhiq_ht0BNHtmU_yU2buzRDDs3L3mFmO98NKaSfk59k55lwbXgZcd6LN2bc1JFUOKqAnitO/s1600/photo+5+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvWGbWYm7_Docw-VihyphenhyphenusZJqesQhQXZUx5UmIrL0A6PmMZ2R01J0-j8dZAiX1Q3XxsjkEuyNhiq_ht0BNHtmU_yU2buzRDDs3L3mFmO98NKaSfk59k55lwbXgZcd6LN2bc1JFUOKqAnitO/s1600/photo+5+(2).JPG" height="300" width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sandwiches! Scones! Tea! Yum all around.<br></td></tr>
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What was really special about the day -- besides the wonderful company -- was the view! We had window seats overlooking the snowy park.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxshHxvJncqjTielbvE2wzTrtr7XlBhSgju7lpJBdMI3aPQUiJ8z5FpDj5uirUlzyfiGRFpJcQcOIg-sim-64XfGzSTrvY8qdqUUaScx33jCWlNNHbZKfKDLt1wqpGmHNOKFQMuTqaZVkK/s1600/photo+4+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxshHxvJncqjTielbvE2wzTrtr7XlBhSgju7lpJBdMI3aPQUiJ8z5FpDj5uirUlzyfiGRFpJcQcOIg-sim-64XfGzSTrvY8qdqUUaScx33jCWlNNHbZKfKDLt1wqpGmHNOKFQMuTqaZVkK/s1600/photo+4+%25282%2529.JPG" height="300" width="400"></a></div>
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While we sipped hot tea and munched on little treats, I got to gaze out the window and see the park where I had just accomplished my 11th Half Marathon and coldest run <i>of all time. </i>It was an amazing vantage point to reflect on a new milestone (or perhaps a new level of crazy?) in the Run MeriG experience.<br>
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Winter running has its ups and it has its downs. I'm learning to love some things about it, and certainly am gaining some much needed perspective. Yesterday's 35 degree run, as an example, seemed downright balmy!<br>
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But as much as I'm learning to appreciate the cold-weather running more and more, there's one thing that remains certain:<br>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Queen Elsa > Groundhog!!!!!!!!</td></tr>
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<b><a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/11/part-iii-merig-runs-nyc-marathon-now.html" style="color: #4646d6; text-decoration: none;">I am running the Boston Marathon with the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge</a>! I have raised $6,320 towards my goal of $10,000! Find our more or donate here: </b><a href="http://www.rundfmc.org/2014/merig" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://www.runDFMC.org/2014/merig</a></div>
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Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5768295049957830425.post-20111220867318286392014-01-21T21:37:00.001-05:002014-01-21T21:37:20.126-05:00MeriG's Favorite Things: Third InstallationThe wind and snow are howling outside. But I'm in front of the TV with Archie watching <b>Brooklyn 99</b> (which is DEFINITELY one of my favorite things) and we are just dandy.<div>
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<b>Researching Paris and Belgium.</b></div>
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So, I'm running the Boston Marathon on April 21st. And then I leave for Paris on April 22nd. I know, I know. What a boring week, huh? </div>
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Although I've been to Europe on two separate five-week trips (after undergrad and then MBA graduations), I have never been to Paris. I can't even believe that! </div>
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I'll be going with my dear friend from high school and will be spending time with a cousin while I'm there, and I am basically giddy with excitement already. We'll be in Paris for four days and nights, Brussels for one and Bruge for one. Please give me your recommendations on what to see and -- importantly -- what and where to eat! I'll have just run a <i>marathon</i>. Bring on the cheese and the beer and the wine and the pommes frittes!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I also really want this bag from Zazzle.com</td></tr>
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<b>Homemade Indian Food!</b></div>
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Indian food is one of my favorite things. I don't know why, but I've always loved the flavors, the smells, the spices, and the variety of food you can try if you explore different regions. Like all white people, however, I have a special affinity for Tikka Masala. It's basically the gateway drug of Indian food.</div>
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However, Indian food is not always the <i>best</i> thing for running (surprise, surprise!) The food served at most restaurants is very decadent and you end up eating portions much bigger than what it's meant for. My friend Ashley and I discovered this fact when we traveled in India for five weeks during business school and realized that what we ordered for two is akin to what the families at nice restaurants were eating. Families of six that is.</div>
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So when I found an easy vegetarian tikka masala recipe, I jumped at the chance. I made it last night, except without the cream (which I didn't miss!) and with half the tofu (didn't need that much) and it came out <i>fantastically. </i></div>
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Delicious, cheap (once you have the spices), homemade, and healthy Indian food! I was delighted and will be making this regularly. <a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/vegetarian_tikka_masala.html">This links to the recipe if you want to check it out.</a></div>
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<b>Disney's Frozen</b></div>
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I saw this film yesterday in a theater full of children. That sounds like hell, you say? Well we regretted the decision immediately as well....until it was <i>THE GREATEST MOVIE OF ALL TIME. </i>I loved every single thing about it. The message (girl power? boys are stupid? sisterly love? lots of things), the music (um...hi Idina Menzel), the animation (like whoa), and -- obviously -- the reindeer named Sven.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju85W3Q-gE-3CmcGdSLa2Wnf5rc3FkBWjGvOBMkUMlTYJ5EESmvuGud55v1_DEfR_mop1qzBkC82G3SLL6HwSOMt3geHr13sKMMpC5kmjDcPA5q4Ey3vUpkmjveFHuB6I0WSG8FwcOErou/s1600/Disney+s+frozen+sven.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju85W3Q-gE-3CmcGdSLa2Wnf5rc3FkBWjGvOBMkUMlTYJ5EESmvuGud55v1_DEfR_mop1qzBkC82G3SLL6HwSOMt3geHr13sKMMpC5kmjDcPA5q4Ey3vUpkmjveFHuB6I0WSG8FwcOErou/s1600/Disney+s+frozen+sven.jpg" height="287" width="400" /></a></div>
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There was a lot of sass in Frozen, which I appreciated.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMhccl2OFgHgNXudTun02ydF_4wLafXzFvbpVOgTZTjSX5Q28_vMcPwUtrVYxiOKn7Hy-NPim84nR1AoC0In7bOweuCaEf58fWA_2x2rVSghvKZLB5Q9DpuqYRQQiQJu_jGueymyZglsg_/s1600/1208oped_weiss1.r.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMhccl2OFgHgNXudTun02ydF_4wLafXzFvbpVOgTZTjSX5Q28_vMcPwUtrVYxiOKn7Hy-NPim84nR1AoC0In7bOweuCaEf58fWA_2x2rVSghvKZLB5Q9DpuqYRQQiQJu_jGueymyZglsg_/s1600/1208oped_weiss1.r.jpg" height="400" width="347" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Princess Anna being sassy (BostonGlobe.com)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Queen Elsa not being so much sassy as AMAZING (www.bustle.com)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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Speaking of Elsa / Idinia Menzel being amazing? If you remotely like Disney or Broadway or anything remotely happy and pleasant in this world, please following the next two easy steps:</div>
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1) Watch this:</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/moSFlvxnbgk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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2) SEE THIS MOVIE</div>
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I leave you with words of wisdom and this hilarious image: </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0MiWrez2dNaKRiGJJBHWHLBYV3LiyD4V71HwNT_5dxhyX-OcmsDZyX7LPfuywvT_VB1bxCv3BhPO_JwaMAfzXICX7u2CvD9ci7XXODNyrK_LHrgJqc56_6zX-aRxkmefTwc44qlmtTp3_/s1600/tumblr_mzi9qb7SNa1s45tlpo1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0MiWrez2dNaKRiGJJBHWHLBYV3LiyD4V71HwNT_5dxhyX-OcmsDZyX7LPfuywvT_VB1bxCv3BhPO_JwaMAfzXICX7u2CvD9ci7XXODNyrK_LHrgJqc56_6zX-aRxkmefTwc44qlmtTp3_/s1600/tumblr_mzi9qb7SNa1s45tlpo1_500.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://art-of-disney.tumblr.com/">http://art-of-disney.tumblr.com/</a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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<b>House of Cards</b></div>
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Upon recommendation from Betsy (blog famous Betsy!), I just completed episode six of this Netflix gem. And I LOVE it so far. It's only one season in and returns next month, so you have some time to easily catch up. And it's worth it, I promise.</div>
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The Princess Bride is particularly amazing (and stunning!) in it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXRTnzmLbamsVsHaVw1TCA_uiH8RpP3UF8OHcVVPEc-2381I6mwBe2TemkVg-AHh7-M2j-wUQz3JxfuveguHVl6Ng-vDKGHKl8_N1QjpbhBI5EQPe3uajy5eKky36O1_ngK8ht24glNwZr/s1600/House+of+Cards+Robin+Wright.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXRTnzmLbamsVsHaVw1TCA_uiH8RpP3UF8OHcVVPEc-2381I6mwBe2TemkVg-AHh7-M2j-wUQz3JxfuveguHVl6Ng-vDKGHKl8_N1QjpbhBI5EQPe3uajy5eKky36O1_ngK8ht24glNwZr/s1600/House+of+Cards+Robin+Wright.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Kevin Spacey thinks so too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCiw7o0Vmx13iRUdwxnKM8lfZNWD8M1fO5vvg7j5nopesOlm7BtEzyhuCYoek-_Heo4kRQtnf9shkbgyyz522IVtDAf9BYv0f7NKsjVOfDPj1b9h98jomMDrAC1npwyWp9sRDLHikmcYBf/s1600/158b0b0e-427f-4031-a565-7f61c5967a87_house-of-cards-v2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCiw7o0Vmx13iRUdwxnKM8lfZNWD8M1fO5vvg7j5nopesOlm7BtEzyhuCYoek-_Heo4kRQtnf9shkbgyyz522IVtDAf9BYv0f7NKsjVOfDPj1b9h98jomMDrAC1npwyWp9sRDLHikmcYBf/s1600/158b0b0e-427f-4031-a565-7f61c5967a87_house-of-cards-v2.gif" height="200" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>My Amazing Friends and Family!</b></div>
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Thanks to them and to <i>their</i> friends and family, I have raised $5,745 as of tonight<a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/11/part-iii-merig-runs-nyc-marathon-now.html"> towards my goal of $10,000 for Dana-Farber!</a> With 89 days to go before the raise, I am so excited to be training and raising this money. I am signed up for the Manhattan Half this Sunday, which will by <i>far</i> be my coldest race and -- due to my winter delinquency -- will be one of my coldest <i>runs </i>ever. </div>
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With my self-professed <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2014/01/dont-fear-treadmill.html">love of all things treadmill</a>, this training for a spring marathon is absolutely getting out of my comfort zone. But I'm happy about that. Not only is it pushing me beyond my previous physical (and more so mental) limits, but it makes the money I'm raising all the more worth it. For every dollar raised, I am working equally hard to push myself outside of my normal and outside of what I've done before. Each donation inspires me to get outside when I really want to snuggle into bed deeper. Each email of support or post on my Facebook wall makes me want to run faster, stronger and better on April 21st. </div>
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<b>This for sure is one of my <i>absolute favorite things</i> right now.</b></div>
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Want to help me reach my $10,000 goal to raise money for Dana-Farber? 1<b>00% </b>of proceeds go to the Claudia Adams Barr Program in Innovative Basic Cancer Research which fosters scientific breakthroughs by advancing the work of gifted researchers in a variety of research disciplines. These funds enable scientists at the leading edge of discovery to achieve better cure rates and -- importantly -- to enhance patients' quality of life. For more on why I run -- very personally -- for <i><u>this </u></i>organization, <a href="http://runmerigrun.blogspot.com/2013/11/part-iii-merig-runs-nyc-marathon-now.html">click here.</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And...<a href="http://www.rundfmc.org/2014/merig">Donate Here!</a></span></div>
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Run, MeriG. Run.http://www.blogger.com/profile/00832090262596904000noreply@blogger.com0