2012 Boston Marathon Tips

Are You Mentally Prepared?

It’s been a year since I ran the 115th Boston Marathon and definitely a time for reflection. I think the biggest part of my preparation that could have been better was my mental preparation. As I’ve shared before on this blog, mental preparation is so key for success.

I was so drained from raising money for charity, getting my travel plans in order and training that when I found myself at the starting line, the event hit me like a ton of bricks.

Hopefully, this year’s round of Boston Marathon runners will take heed to Runner’s World’s recent spotlight article called “8 Mental Tricks for Boston Runners.” Boy, I wish I had been able to hear Harvard psychologist and Runner’s World advisor Dr. Jeff Brown prior to my race! Dr. Brown has been the psychologist assisting the Boston Marathon for more than a decade, so he knows all about the psychology of marathon running.

In the video, Dr. Brown shares his eight mental strategies for runners. Here’s a quick synopsis:

1. Trust Your Training. Set up a routine and follow the routine in advance. Going over your plan will help reduce anxiety, according to Brown.

2. Eliminate the Doubts. Keep positive self statements in your mind. Negative thoughts make your shoes heavy, says Brown.

3. Put Life’s Distractions Away Before and During the Race. Self explanatory.

4. If Something Unexpected Happens…accept it for what it is and don’t worry about it. Perfection isn’t required to finish the race, explains Brown.

5. Overcome HeartBreak Hill. Mental tricks like repeating “glide,” “up,” and using other positive word associations will take your mind off your body and performance.

6. Indulge Your Superstitions. Superstitions can help you feel positive and encouraged. And, if you lost lucky your socks, don’t worry. Embrace new types of luck.

7. Choose 2 or 3 Goals. Setting several goals for your race is helpful so you can feel successful at multiple times during the race and feel overall satisfied with your race performance even if you didn’t hit your PR (personal record) time, says Brown.

8. Remind Yourself “Why” You’re Doing It. Know why you’re there and focus on it. Whether it’s your kids waiting for you at the finish line, accomplishing your ultimate goal or gaining bragging rights, focus on your “why.”

Watch Dr. Brown’s video here.

I Think I’ll Go to Boston…

That song by Augustanna is stuck in my head, but I’m definitely not moving here.

Today I’m up in Maine visiting my family and it’s the day before the race. It has been cold, windy and rainy, the exact antithesis of what I hope race day weather will be like in Boston on the big day. (Forecasters are still predicting clear and 61 degrees for a high, so I’m crossing my fingers and praying!!)

After breakfast we’re heading down to Boston to hit the expo so I can get my race number, etc (um very important!) and then shop ’til I drop on all-things-Boston Marathon souvenirs.

To say that I’m excited for this very big day ahead is such an understatement. I just cannot WAIT!

And, as any little bits of nerves try to creep in (“hope my foot will feel all right,” “what will I do if it rains?” etc.), I dismiss them all away in favor of looking forward to adventure, whatever obstacles surface along the 26.2-mile route.

That’s marathoning, after all.

So, as I depart from Maine, I’m hopeful I’ll be able to blog after the race tomorrow, but we’ll see. Still have to encounter where we’re staying and the Internet situation there.

If not, can’t WAIT to provide an update. ONE DAY AWAY!!!! 

Boston Bound!

The big day is here…well, the big travel day at least.

I’m sitting at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and ready to take the next step in this very exciting journey.

House is clean, bags are packed with everything (hopefully!) and flight is on time (so far!).

As I walked up to the security line to take off my shoes and just about every other article of clothing, the TSA guy asked the routine questions:

TSA Guy: Where are you going?

Me: Boston.

TSA Guy: What are you doing there?

Me: (Slight hesitation) To run the Boston Marathon.

TSA Guy: Wow, great, good luck! You can go ahead.

Such a normal conversation, but SO satisfying to share that kind of answer.

I’m running the Boston Marathon.

Wow! Nearly broke down into tears in that moment lol.

My friend Danyell jokingly told me today “you should have worn a shirt that says that.”

Really, I should have. Maybe it would have said “Boston or Bust,” or “I’m Running the Boston Marathon…HUG ME!” or some other random thing. Would have been great, but then again, I did feel a little bit of shyness creep up when everyone around me in line turned to look at me after I said I was running the Boston Marathon.

Better to keep a low profile.

I’m happily looking forward to several days of wearing workout pants and running shoes with no questions asked and also sans the guilt of looking slightly slouchy.

I’M RUNNING THE BOSTON MARATHON!!!!!

Follow My Boston Marathon Journey

Last night I was packing my bags for my Boston Marathon trip and my mind had already begun to race.

What will the weather be like? Oh, I can’t forget the extra power gel. Should I pack an extra North Face jacket for before the race…yes, just in case. I wonder what Heartbreak Hill will live up to the hype.

I decided to pack a separate Isagenix® duffle bag to tote with me on the plane just in case my luggage gets lost en route to Boston (having traveled to Boston Logan a few times, I know what can happen). I might be without my makeup or regular clothes for a few days, but at least the really important essentials will be close to the hip.

Again, I am just so filled with gratitude for all of the tremendous support I’ve received along the way and the encouraging words I’m hearing from my friends and colleagues as the day draws nearer….even got a call from my friend in Alaska who had her special education class sing a rendition of “Happy Marathon Day” (think: Happy Birthday song, but with “happy marathon” instead) to me over my cell phone. Gosh, I feel so special and loved!!!!

So, if you want to follow me on the “big day,” here’s the info on how to do it:

• The Boston Marathon will be televised in the U.S. live in its entirety via Universal Sports. Here’s more info.
• If you want texts sent to your phone with updates on my progress, you can sign up via AT&T Athlete Alert. Just text the word “RUNNER” to 345678 and you’ll get updates at the 10km, halfway, 30km and finish line.
• My bib number is 26722 and I’ll be in the final wave and corral since a time is not required for a charity runner.

I’ll try my best to post updates and pictures of my experience along the way and will definitely post a follow up reflection and play-by-play after race day on Monday, April 18.

Thanks for following me and I can’t wait to share more about this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Dreams DO come true!!! 

In Gratitude

It’s late and I should probably be in bed. Pulling a semi-single-mommy routine this week with my husband tied up with other commitments has left me a little tired.

And still, it’s done nothing to quell my excitement for Boston and the other feelings welling up in side of me.

I’m proud to report that I, along with my fantastic Isagenix colleagues, have pulled in nearly (or possibly over) $6,000 for Childhelp, exceeding the original $5,000 goal. AND we did it in less than 2 months! Most charity runners spend many more MONTHS trying to raise those kinds of funds.

So now that my raffle winners have been drawn, I have the final exciting task ahead of me to notify each one and let them pick their prize. Can’t wait (and sooooo appreciate those who donated to the raffle and Childhelp–I can’t even come close to expressing my gratitude!!).

This journey has been full of some really incredible highs and a few lows, but what worthwhile pathway doesn’t come with both? Either way, both of my goals are nearly accomplished (1. Raise $5k for Childhelp before the marathon, 2.) Run the marathon).

When I reflect on the encouraging words, the financial support and the deep love that I have encountered in just two months, I can’t help but be changed in a way. This journey has shown me in some small ways the number of people that are in my corner, who believe I’m a “winner.” My normal confidence aside, I think we all struggle with a little self-doubt at times. There’s always that person who could do better because they’re fitter, more charismatic or just seem to have it all together.

But guess what? We’re chosen as we are anyway. We can accomplish infinitely more than we perhaps even realize. We just have to be willing to step out of our comfort zone and do it.

I know that being selected to run the Boston Marathon this year is not a mistake and it’s not by chance. I know that this dream was put in my heart a long time ago for a reason and I know that that dream resurfaced this last summer for a reason. So, as I prepare, meditate and reflect on everything, to sum it up simply, I’m grateful and humbled.

Thank you to each person who has lent a hand, who has written on my Facebook or said something encouraging. Thank you to those who took the time to donate (and you still can if you want to) or just prayerfully supported me. Thank you to my husband and my family for supporting me so I could focus on my goals–whether it was donating money, watching the kiddo while I trained for hours or simply listening to me as I poured my heart out about any and all concerns.

Thank you to the businesses who donated products and gift cards for the fundraising raffle. Thank you to my colleagues at Isagenix for cheering me on and always believing in me. Thank you to the company and to Childhelp for supporting me with this run and choosing me.

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I’ll be traveling to Boston later this week and I’m excited to see some of my East Coast family, some of my Isagenix family and some of my running family.

Truly this is a dream come true and I pray that I can hold it together long enough to drink it all in.

Reality is now sinking in! 

5 Ways to Nix Naysayers

Runners, I would say, are the friendliest athletes.

When you’re out for a run on the street, you’ll get a nod or a wave from a runner. A few weeks ago while running on a canal, the female counterpart of a couple running in the opposite direction actually gave me a big smile and held up her hand for a high-five.

I gladly accepted the high-five.

Unfortunately, not everyone is as encouraging or supportive while you’re passionately pursuing your goals. Maybe you’re trying to get through college and earn your degree, training for a marathon or have your eyes set on another “bucket list” item. Odds are good that you’ll encounter at least one “naysayer” along the way.

I remember standing at the starting line of my second marathon. The sun was just barely rising over the Superstition Mountains in eastern Arizona and we were in the middle of the desert on dirt path. As a few hundred of us adjusted our sunglasses and readied our iPods and watches, a heavier-set woman near me proclaimed loudly to another runner “So many people have told me I can’t run a marathon. I’m going to prove to them that I can.”

I never found out if she truly ever reached her goal and completed that marathon, but her comment struck me. She had vocalized what many of us struggle with every day.

Some people call them “frienemies,” but I’d prefer to just call them naysayers. The naysayer may even be you; that voice inside that clings to self-doubt.

So, how do you nix the naysayer or at least overcome their words and comments? I’ll admit, I let it all bother me more than I should, but here’s my advice:

1. Reaffirm Your “Why.” Naysayer (or little voice in your head) tells you that your goal is too big or asks you why you’re even doing it. Go back to that place when you made the decision. For me, when the Boston Marathon was offered, I certainly had my insecurities, but many of my questions and prayers were answered, giving me peace. I know this is what I’m meant to do.
2. Share Your Deepest Thoughts With Non-Naysayers. If you recognize that someone is not supportive of your goal, don’t share your deepest thoughts or feelings about it with them. Surround yourself with the people who are encouraging you and truly excited about you reaching your goal. Focus on their words and not the naysayers’ words.
3. Focus on a Word or Phrase. Whatever your goal is, have a word, phrase or saying that resonates with how you feel about it. I recently read a Runner’s World article where Kara Goucher talked about focusing on the word “fighter” for those especially difficult parts of training or racing. For me, it’s “tenacity;” never giving up and passionately pursuing my dream.
4. Take a Time Out. Why this little practice hasn’t continued with adults, I don’t know. There are so many moments when we just need to say “you know what, time out. I need a break from this.” Escape to a room by yourself, sit in a grassy field, go on a walk or run–whatever it is, just find a moment to yourself to collect your thoughts and push the icky away.
5. Confront :Gulp: the Naysayer. If you’re really REALLY struggling with a certain person not being fully supportive, sit them down and talk to them about how it makes you feel. Odds are good that if the person cares about you, they’ll mend their ways. Tell them what you expect as well. If it’s words, helping you achieve your goal or simply quitting the negative talk, let them know. Sometimes people don’t even realize how their attitudes are coming across and affecting you.

Again, I am not perfect and have not mastered this art, but these principles have at least helped me to not only pursue my Boston Marathon dream, but many other exciting accomplishments, too.

You can do this. Just passionately pursue your dreams and never, NEVER give up.

In closing, my very favorite saying in high school country was the following and I still love it today:

“Pain is temporary, but pride is forever.”

Don’t leave anything on the table. Whatever it is that you do, do it with your whole heart.

(April 12 is the raffle drawing–make a donation to Childhelp by end of day April 11 and I’ll include you. There are 18 prizes!!)

Raffle For Good Now Available

Over $3,500 worth of prizes and 18 chances to win with proceeds benefiting Childhelp!

This is it! Just 26 days remain until the Boston Marathon and the conclusion of my fund-raising efforts for Childhelp®.

Today marks the start of raffle ticket sales for 18 incredible prizes (and counting!) that will be drawn.

Here’s How You Can Participate:

1. Raffle tickets are $10 each, or you can enjoy 5 tickets for $40 or 14 tickets for $100
2. You can either submit your check or cash to me in person or, you can go to my “Donate” page and enter in your donation. Just remember to e-mail me at MarathonForGood@Gmail.com with your contact info (e-mail, phone number and name) if you want to be included in the raffle.
3. Donations and tickets must be made/purchased prior to April 11, 2011 to be included in the drawing, which will be held Tuesday, April 12, 2011. Winners will be notified immediately to choose their prize, so be sure to include your best contact info.

For more details, take a look at the Marathon Raffle flyer or see below for more!

Thanks in advance for your support of Childhelp and this my marathon for good!

The Legacy Golf Resort in Phoenix, Ariz. (1 available worth over $300!)

Enjoy a two-night luxurious stay in a Studio Suite at this sprawling resort with amenities such as an 18-hole championship golf course, sparkling pool complete with a ping pong table, oversized chess set and tons of space for basking in the sun.

Cottingham Chiropractic & Bodyworks by Vanessa (3 packages available worth over $400 each!)

Special gift certificate package includes a first evaluation, X-ray and adjustment by Dr. Jeffery Cottingham as well as a one-hour therapeutic massage appointment with Vanessa at Cottingham Chiropractic’s Chandler location.

2 Weeks of Personal Training by Fysiques by Ferguson ($450 value!)

Challenge your body with two weeks of free, one-on-one personal training sessions valued at more than $450. This package includes six personal training sessions.

Isagenix 30-Day Cleansing and Fat Burning System (2 available, each worth over $250!)

Swimsuit season is right around the corner and if you’re ready to kick start your health or enjoy a little weight loss, the 30-Day System is the perfect fit! Complete with 30 days worth of Nutritional Cleansing and Replenishing products, you’ll be on your way to a lean physique while giving your body the nutrients it needs for optimal energy.

Sole Sports Specialty Running Store $25 Gift Certificate (2 available!)

One of my favorite local running stores, Sole Sports’ two locations feature free foot-strike evaluations to help you determine the best running shoe for your foot, apparel and other running essentials.

Starbucks Gift Package (over $40 value!)

Includes a double-walled, stainless steel coffee mug, a bag of Pike’s Place Roast coffee and a $10 gift certificate. Perfect for any Starbucks lover!

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant ($60 gift certificate)

Fresh seafood and fantastic service are the keys to this successful restaurant. With locations in Phoenix and across the U.S., if you’re in the mood for fine seafood, this is the place to go.

Donovan’s Steak & Chop House ($50 gift card)
Steakhouse fans, rejoice! If you’re looking for a juicy, decadent meal, Donovan’s fits the bill. Locations include Phoenix, La Jolla and San Diego.

Disciple Tattoo in Gilbert (1 hour session with artist valued at $120 – 2 available!)

Experience true artistry with memorial tattoos, artistic designs and beyond what you can imagine. Tattoo artists such as shop owner Carlos Rubio’s tattoos could rival popular TV tattooers such as Kat Von D on any given day. Get a one-hour session with a talented tattooer, worth $120.

Paradise Bakery ($25 gift card)
Fresh lunches, tasty sweets and treats; Paradise Bakery is the perfect place to stop for an on-the-go meal, takeout or a relaxing, casual lunch with friends.

Pitta Souvli in Chandler ($30 gift card)

Those in the southwest area of Chandler cherish this family-owned and run Greek restaurant. Fresh salads, authentic cuisine and a family atmosphere make Pitta Souvli a popular lunch and dinner spot. Fresh, healthy and delicious, I wish I could keep the gift card to this local favorite for myself!

Chompie’s (1 Dozen Bagels + Cream Cheese – 2 available!)

In Arizona, Chompie’s is KNOWN for their bagels. Plus, they’re even Kosher certified! This wonderful restaurant and fantastic breakfast locale just donated two gift cards for one dozen bagels and cream cheese! Surprise your colleagues with fresh bagels one morning, or bring them home for the fam.

Again, BIG thanks to the businesses who generously donated all of these amazing prizes:

• The Legacy Golf Resort in Phoenix
• Cottingham Chiropractic in Chandler
• Bodyworks by Vanessa in Chandler
• Fysiques by Ferguson in Scottsdale
• Isagenix®
• Sole Sports in Tempe and Scottsdale
• Starbucks (Nationwide, but provided by Price & Ray Roads Chandler location)
• McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant
• Donovan’s Steak & Chop House
• Disciple Tattoo in Gilbert
• Paradise Bakery in Chandler
• Pitta Souvli in Chandler
• Chompie’s

A Quick “Thank You” and How You Can Still Help

Thank you, THANK YOU to everyone who has donated to Childhelp supporting my “Marathon for Good.” I am so excited to run the Boston Marathon for this incredibly worthy cause and feel super blessed by the outpouring of support.

So far, $665 have been raised for Childhelp and we’re solidly on our way to achieving $5,000!

A quick recap on what your dollars do:

• Every $5 funds one phone call placed to Childhelp’s anonymous, 24-hour, toll-free hotline (1-800-4-A-Child). That means we’ve already helped 133 people; either children who are in abusive or neglectful situations or people who are concerned about children in those situations!
• 90 cents from every dollar goes DIRECTLY to funding the numerous programs Childhelp oversees.
• Every cent of your donation (even if you’re a business!) is tax deductible since Childhelp is a 501 (c)(3).

Here’s what we’ve done so far:

• Individual donations— THANK YOU for going to the “Donate” page and entering a figure. Every dollar counts!
• Bake Sale at Work— $135 was raised by simply putting out a sign, some baked goods and requesting whatever peopel felt led to donate.

But we’re not done.

I’m putting together a raffle that will include a variety of goods and services. So far, we have a chiropractor, a massage therapist and a local tattoo artist who have all committed to donating a gift certificate. I’ll be going around to other businesses requesting donations, but if you work for a company, own your own business or have other ideas for donations, please feel free to share!

Here’s the flyer that I’m sharing with businesses that also includes Childhelp’s tax ID.

Childhelp Business Support Letter

Thanks in advance for all of your support, encouragement and help. We are making a HUGE difference!!!