Amanda & Courtney Run Boston

We made it!

2010-04-20T19:05:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, we started in Hopkinton at 10:30am, and arrived in Boston, together, 4 hours, 33 mins and 48 seconds later. It seemed like every couple of miles there were familiar faces cheering us on. Together, we have raised close to $30,000 for Dana-Farber, and we aren't done yet.

THANK YOU! For your support, donations and words of encouragement. We truly couldn't have done this without you.

Courtney & Amanda

100 Reasons to Run the Boston Marathon

2010-04-18T21:35:00.000-04:00

Thanks to all for giving us 100 reasons, and more, to run the 114th Boston Marathon. Follow our progress and read below for the many, many reasons we run.

We appreciate all of the support - financial and emotional - that we have received over the past months, and we've really enjoyed having you along for the ride via the blog. Check back after the Marathon for a recap.

With much love,
Amanda & Courtney

1 day (Amanda & Courtney): For Kira Corning, Jennifer Kennedy, and Jennifer Gray Beckman. Three fabulous ladies who will be with us every step of the way.
2 days (Amanda & Courtney): Because we couldn't imagine running a marathon with any other organization. Dana-Farber is a very, very special place and we are proud to run for the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge.
3 days (Ann Trason): Because it hurts up to a point, and then it doesn't get any worse.
4 days (Patti Sue Plummer): Because when the gun goes off, everything changes. The world changes.
5 days (Jeff, teammate): Because I love you guys!
6 days (Jeff, teammate): Because I can't wait to kiss the Wellesley girls.
7 days (Stephanie, teammate): Because there's only one Jersey Shore episode to go.
8 days (Melissa, teammate): Because I am f'ing hungry.
9 days (Courtney): Because it's a really good excuse to buy new clothes.
10 days (Amanda): Because it brings Sister to Boston!
11 days (Jack Fultz, '76 Boston Marathon winner): Because the marathon is the celebration of all the hard work.
12 days (Courtney): Because why else would I have tallied 491.6 miles over the last six months?
13 days (Anonymous): Because why should the Kenyans have all the fun?
14 days (Court & Amanda): Because it's a really good excuse to have a Date Auction.
15 days (KMP, via Boston.com's Why I Run): Because it feels special knowing that few people have ever seen how beautiful the sunrise over Boston is from the Charles River bike bath under the BU bridge.
16 days (Kristen, via Boston.com's Why I Run): To build physical and mental toughness, which serve me well in other aspects of life.
17 days (Courtney): Because it is distraction from a Virginia PET scan.
18 days (Erin, via Boston.com's Why I Run): Because it satisfies my yearning for adventure, my insatiable sense of inquiry, and my desire to experience the world in ways inimitable.
19 days (Carol, via Boston.com's Why I Run): Because running is an escape from the chemo and radiation treatments.
20 days (Anonymous): Because D.A. should be planning for graduation parties, not for treatment for metastatic cancer.
21 days (Herb Brooks): This is your moment. You're meant to be here.
22 days (George Sheehan): "Everyone who finishes the Boston Marathon has their own great moment in sport. Each of us on this day has achieved greatness."
23 days (John Treacy, 1984 Olympic marathon silver medalist who finished third in the 1988 Boston Marathon in 2:09:15): "The great mystique of Heartbreak Hill is not getting up it. It's getting down it."
24 days (Muhammed Ali): Champions aren't made in the gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them: a desire, a dream, a vision.
25 days (George Patton): "Human beings are made up of flesh and blood, and a miracle fiber called courage"
26 days (Uta Pippig): I definitely want to show how beautiful the marathon can be. I am the opponent of all those who find the marathon bad: the psychologists, the physiologists, the doubters. I make the marathon beatiful for myself and for others. That's why I'm here.
27 days (Jodi South): "Once you run your first marathon, Boston is the next step. It's the big dream."
28 days (Jacqueline Gareau, 1980 Boston Marathon winner ): "The body does not want you to do this. As you run, it tells you to stop but the mind must be strong."
29 days (Vince Lombardi): Dictionary is the only place that success comes before work. Hard work is the price we must pay for success. I think you can accomplish anything if you're willing to pay the price.
30 days (Emil Zatopek via teammate Caitlin's sister): "We are different, in essence, from other men. If you want to win something, run 100 meters. If you want to experience something, run a marathon."
31 days (Jack Nicklaus ): "I'm a firm believer that in the theory that people only do their best at things they truly enjoy. It is difficult to excel at something you don't enjoy."
32 days (Paul "Bear" Bryant): "Never quit. It is the easiest cop-out in the world. Set a goal and don't quit until you attain it. When you do attain it, set another goal, and don't quit until you reach it. Never quit."
33 days (Tommy Lasorda): "The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a man's determination."
34 days (Jim Valvano): "Cancer can take away all of my physical abilities. It cannot touch my mind, it cannot touch my heart, and it cannot touch my soul."
35 days (Vince Lombardi): "I firmly believe that any man's finest hour, the greatest fulfillment of all that he holds dear, is that moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle - victorious."
36 days (Herb Brooks): "Great moments are born from great opportunities."
37 days (Mike Ditka): "Before you can win, you have to believe you are worthy."
38 days (Calvin Coolidge): "Nothing in the world can take the place of Persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan 'Press On' has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race."
39 days (Anonymous, teammate): I am running today, so that those who can't will be able to run tomorrow.
40 days (Courtney): Because what does not kill you makes you stronger.
41 days (Steph, teammate): Because my husband/wife/family/friends/co-workers find me a lot more manageable when I've been running...
42 days (Steph, teammate): Because for a few hours on Marathon Monday a 'regular' runner like myself can feel like an elite.
43 days (Amy, teammate): Because your glycogen stores are full and you need to do something to deplete them...
44 days (Gene, supporter): Because the money you raise will not only help patients today, but hopefully prevent people from being patients tomorrow.
45 days (Brandy, supporter): Because bikini season is coming up and you'll have some killer limbs to show off!
46 days (Pam, teammate): Initially running to fulfill a dream, now I'm running to give hope, inspiration,and resources to those with cancer.
47 days (Courtney): Because I am honored to run in the memory of a 16 year old young woman who passed away far too young, and whose family will never forget their Dana-Farber experience.
48 days (Courtney): Because pants that have always been a little too small now are too loose.
49 days (Jon, supporter and Boston Marathon alum): Because running 26.2 miles is easier than drinking 26.2 beers in the same amount of time...
50 days (Jeff, teammate): I run because I am being metaphorically chased.
51 days (Jeff, teammate): Because football season is over, and I need to stay in shape for next tailgating season!
52 days (Melissa, supporter and Boston Marathon alum): Because "actions speak louder than intentions" - stolen from an Adidas billboard along the course last year
53 days (Dotto, supporter): Because it improves your lung capacity for singing.
54 days (Emil Zatopek, via Eric, DFMC teammate): Because "we are different, in essence, from other men. If you want to win something, run 100 meters. If you want to experience something, run a marathon."
55 days (Paul Fetscher via Eric, DFMC teammate): Because "if I want to tell you the most about a person in the fewest words, I simply say, 'he's a runner.'"
56 days (Don Kardong via Tyler, DFMC teammate): Because "there's no such thing as a bad carbohydrate.”
57 days (Anonymous via Alicia, DFMC teammate): "Because toenails are for sissies."
58 days (Anonymous via Alicia, DFMC teammate): "At mile 20 I thought I was dead, at mile 22 I wished I was dead, At mile 24 I knew I was dead, at mile 26.2 I knew nothing could kill me."
59 days (Anonymous via Alicia, DFMC teammate): "Because a marathon is a 10K with a 20 mile warm up."
60 days (Ben, supporter): "If HE can do it, then YOU can do it!"
61 days (Mary Claire, proud mom and supporter): "Because everytime I log onto the internet and the two of you show up on my homepage - and I read the updates - I smile."
62 days (Nikki, supporter): "Because for each year after when you are a spectator, you can feel the pain and triumph of those running for their cause, yet still enjoy your beer."
63 days (Nikki, supporter): "So for the rest of your life you can start whatever story you want with "Well, when I ran the Boston Marathon..."
64 days (Lauren, supporter): Because how else are you going to burn off all those Thirsty Thursdays?
65 days (Barb, supporter): Because it gives your friends yet another reminder of how lucky they are to have such an amazing, generous, determined, dedicated, special person as their friend!
66 days (Nancy, supporter): Because you're working so hard, in such cold weather, to help fight cancer and find a cure. You inspire me to be a better person.
67 days (Leah, supporter): For the amazing patient partners who make each grueling mile that much more worthwhile.
68 days (Melissa, teammate): Because when I grow up I hope to one day say, "When I was young, there was thing called cancer..." And because beer/pizza on a Thursday night or breakfast on a Saturday morning NEVER tasted sooo good!
69 days (Amy, teammate): Because you get to meet fun new people that become fun new friends...
70 days (Jenni, supporter and Boston Marathon alum): Because you will feel so great going out for an "easy 10-miler" sometime soon.
71 days (Lindsey, teammate and Boston Marathon alum): Because every year that I write up my DFMC application, I have to add the name of another loved one diagnosed with cancer. And well, chocolate and a post run cold beverage never tasted so good.
72 days (Brandy, supporter): So that grandchildren may have the opportunity to get to know their grandparents.
73 days (Michelle, supporter): To bond with strangers before the sun wakes up on a day that could be filled with sun, snow, rain, extreme cold or heat and look back on it with a huge sense of pride and accomplishment.
74 days (Courtney): Because I was peer pressured. I'm blaming every injury, ache, and pain on Amanda for bullying me into signing up. And every day, thanking her for encouraging me to do something I never thought was possible.
75 days (Courtney): If running was easy, everyone would be doing it. I run in honor of the ones who cannot. (I partly stole that from Steph's 1/22/10 blog post.)
76 days (Leah, supporter & Boston Marathon alum): For the shiny medal at the end.
77 days (Jackie, supporter & Boston Marathon alum): In the words of the 2006 Boston Marathon ADIDAS ad campaign: The Shiny Blanket.
78 days (Ryan, supporter & Boston Marathon alum): Because the guilt free eating and drinking after the race is worth 3 months of training through the winter!
79 Days (Jen, supporter): Because despite the incredible advances that DFCI and its partners in industry have made, and the life changing outcomes that are now possible, cancer treatment still sucks.
80 Days (Amanda): Because my Jimmy Fund Clinic Patient Partner, Kira, is an amazing 8 year old who has gone through so much, with such a positive attitude. I cannot wait to meet her!
81 Days (A proud Dad observing two extraordinary young women): Because 26 miles from now, oops, years from now, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute will have to drop "cancer" from its name because of the extraordinary sacrifices of runners and supporters and survivors.
82 Days (Mark, teammate): Because it's quicker than walking.
83 days (Michelle, supporter): Proving that no matter how much you think you aren't a runner, with the proper training you can be.
84 days (Marcy, teammate): (Courtesy of a tea tag) You will feel fulfilled when you do the impossible for someone else.
85 days (Mary Claire, supporter): Because someday one of us - or a family member - could need the services of a Dana-Farber type institution.
86 days (Sean & Steph, teammates): Because I can combine my selfish goal of becoming a stronger person, both physically and mentally; with the selfless goal of committing my time and energy to supporting an amazing cause that hopes to find a cure for cancer.
87 days (Michael, teammate): Because when we run 35-40 miles a week, we can eat all the ice cream we want.
88 days (Michael, teammate): Because we can SHOW our kids that there are things that are so important to do that we stick with them no matter how hard they are.
89 days (Brandy, supporter): Because you are able to do this together! and hold each other up. Such a wonderful thing you're doing! xx!
90 days (Charlotte, supporter): Because you will get a chance to see my smiling face at mile 20.
91 days (Lori, supporter): Because people like my brave strong friend JWP deserve a chance at a full recovery and a long life with her family and friends thanks to well-funded cancer research.
92 days (Jeff, supporter): Because everyone knows at least one survivor.
93 days (Jeff, supporter): Because few things in life feel more exhilarating than working so hard that you are actually sweating in below freezing weather.
94 days (Jeff, supporter): Because 20 years from now, you'll be shocked you were ever in such good shape.
95 days (Erin, supporter): Because you can! And so many others can't! So proud of you!
96 days (Leah, supporter & Boston Marathon alum): Because nothing says "hard-core" like running 15 miles on a Saturday morning in single digit weather.
97 days (Marcy, teammate): Because running for Dana-Farber allow you to heal your heart, your mind, your body and your soul. You come out a new person in the end, even with all the wear and tear. You learn what is truly important and learn that even on the hardest day of your life running 9 miles can give you a brand new outlook.
98 days (Brian, teammate): What Amanda said [99 days], because it deserves to be at least more than one reason.
99 days (Amanda): Because Thursday nights at Crossroads is the new weekend night.
100 days (Courtney): For clear 6 month PET scans and bringing MORE GOOD NEWS to families

Instruction Manual:

2010-04-14T22:37:00.000-04:00

How to Watch Amanda and Courtney Run the Marathon

We started our blog with a video, one that helped to secure our spots on the 2010 DFMC team. We thought we'd post another now that we're so close (!) to the BIG DAY. Watch our quick video for some helpful and hilarious hints on how to be a spectator on Marathon Monday.

We mention a lot of resources in the video; links are below.

BAA SPECTATOR GUIDE

Gives you the schedule for the weekend, as well as how to get around on Marathon Monday with road closures and T service. It also gives you a map of the course and estimated times for the elite men and women (we'll be RIGHT behind them....haha)

Link

WHEN WILL WE GET TO YOU?

Use boston.com's interactive tool to get a rough idea of when we'll pass you along the route. Use 4h20mins for our expected finish time; we start at 10:30am but may be a little slow leaving Hopkinton because of the crowds.

Link

TEXT ALERTS

Sign up asap for text alerts - AT&T will send you a text message when your chosen runner passes the 10k, 30k, half marathon, and finish line.

Link

Amanda's bib #: 22498

Courtney's bib #: 22744

RACE DAY ON YOUR PDA

If you want more frequent, and less delayed updates, go to www.baa.org on race day and use the athlete tracker (by bib # or last name) to get updates. Just hit refresh, you can track as many as 5 runners at a time (assuming it's the same as last year).

WHERE TO FIND US AFTER WE FINISH

At the DFMC 2010 Recovery Zone of course! Join us at the Marriott Copley Plaza to celebrate our achievement!

Link

Humbled by Generosity

2010-04-11T18:13:00.001-04:00

Dear Friends,

We had the most amazing time last night at our Date Auction. To all who came, more than 130 of you, THANK YOU. Thank you for donating to Dana-Farber, thank you for supporting our marathon, thank you for bidding and not embarrassing those of us who made it to the stage.

Thank you as well to those of you who donated items for the dates and door prizes - Amy, Dave & Mary, Jen, Nancy, Amber at the Fairmont Copley, Alex at Avanti Salon, Brian at Franklin Southie, and Deborah at the DFCI Gift Shop.

With your incredible generosity we were able to raise nearly $7,000 for the Claudia Adams Barr Program at Dana-Farber (insert wild applause here). We cannot say thank you enough, but we'll try one more time:

Thank you.

With much appreciation,
your hostesses Amanda & Courtney

Date Auction: Take Notes!

2010-04-08T23:04:00.002-04:00

Please join us at our Date Auction:

Saturday, April 10th
An Tua Nua, 835 Beacon St. (just west of Kenmore Square)
7pm on; Auction starts @ 8:30pm
$20 suggested donation at the door
21+

And to prepare yourselves, here are our singles (in order of appearance on Saturday) and their dates!

COURTNEY. A night at cooking school, followed by drinks. Think Hitch but without the boss or the anaphylactic reaction.

TONY. Wine and chocolate tasting at Hotel Chocolat on Newbury Street.

JORGE. Dinner at Toro or Bar Lola for Spanish-style tapas, followed by tequila/ margarita tasting at Masa, ending with a Salsa lesson and more dancing at Havana Club or Mojitos lounge.

JENNI. Harpoon Brewery Tour & Tasting, plus dinner.

RASSUL. Ten-course meal, with wines, for the winning bidder and up to four friends.

LAUREN. Go see Hot Tub Time Machine featuring John Cusack followed by dinner at the Village Smokehouse in Brookline.

TOM. Start with a Photowalk tour of Boston, and from there have cocktails outside. Spontaneity will dictate where you'll eat while you are out and about! If still going strong, end the date by burning few calories on the dance floor - preferably salsa!

GREG. A night (yet to be determined) at the Sox, perhaps followed by dancing.

AMY. Work up an appetite canoeing on the Charles, then head to the Franklin Southie for Amy's favorite meal...brunch!

ED. Dinner at Sibling Rivalry, followed by The Wine Riot (a huge wine expo sampling wines from around the world). Saturday, April 17th.

ASHLEY. Spend an evening at Fenway Park on April 23rd as the Boston Red Sox take on the Baltimore Orioles.

ERIC. Dinner at Sibling Rivalry during on of their Show & Taste Tuesdays.

AMANDA. Bring your clubs and join Amanda on the range for a bucket of balls, followed by burgers and beers at her favorite little-known pub.

IHO

2010-04-07T22:30:00.003-04:00

IHO = In Honor Of

In a mere handful of days, I'll don my sassy orange and green DFMC singlet and line up in Hopkinton with 26,000 other runners. Each and every one of us has different reasons and inspirations for running. Dana-Farber helps its runners highlight the people who have inspired them by giving out "In Honor Of" cards - a way for runners to celebrate those adults and kids who have undergone treatment and in whose honor we run.

I decorated ten cards for ten special people. There are many more who will guide my way, including and especially those in whose honor and memory my donors have contributed, but these ten names will be added to the hundreds of others that fellow DFMCers have created. No one signs up to get cancer, and none of these people asked to be an inspiration. They simply attacked cancer with all they had, with the support of their friends and family, and with hopes and prayers that they would make it through. And that makes them an inspiration for me.

One person whose family continues to honor her today by participating in the Marathon Challenge's In Memory program is Jennifer Kennedy. Jenn passed away four days after her 16th birthday, after an 18 month battle with Osteosarcoma. Jenn left quite an impact on Dana-Farber during her treatment, even charming Jason Varitek and helping to inspire his Tek's 33s program where he brings Children's Hospital patients to a Sox game.

I am fortunate to be partnered with Jenn's family and to be able to run in her memory. And it gave me a tremendous feeling of pride to work for Dana-Farber as Jenn's dad described her experience there, and when he said that the treatment she received was "second to none."

So for Jenn, my nine other IHOs (JGB, Papa, KD, MN, MC, SB, IM, Kira, & MS), and everyone that my donors and supporters are honoring as well, these 26.2 miles are for you.

Ten Days of Singles: Day 10

2010-04-06T08:54:00.003-04:00

Day 10

Single #13:
Greg

Greg is a hands-on kind of guy. A carpenter by trade, he runs the family construction business. Also a true guys-guy, Greg loves sports and enjoys working out in his free time. He also likes going to the beach, catching a good flick, and going out for dinner, drinks, and dancing.

Ladies, you're in luck - Greg considers himself an old fashioned, always-hold-the-door-for-a-lady, type of guy. A lost art for certain!

Greg is still working on his date, but be assured that you'll be charmed.

Today is the final day of Ten Days of Singles. We hope you've enjoyed meeting our 13 singles as much as we've enjoyed introducing them to you! Please join us at our Date Auction:
Saturday, April 10th
An Tua Nua, 835 Beacon St. (just west of Kenmore Square)
7pm on; Auction starts @ 8:30pm
$20 suggested donation at the door
21+

Ten Days of Singles: Day 9

2010-04-05T10:05:00.001-04:00

Day 9
Single #12:
Lauren

Lauren is a former ballerina and a current editorial assistant at Cengage, a college textbook company where, ironically enough, she works on math textbooks even though she double majored in dance and English and hasn't taken a math class since twelfth grade calculus. Don't let her background in dance fool you; she is easily the clumsiest person alive and once in college had both a broken foot and a chipped tooth... at the same time.

Lauren enjoys reading, the Red Sox, going to the beach, travel, running shorter distances than the marathon, and this year she dressed up as the Hamburglar for Halloween.

Lauren's date is a trip to the cinema to see Hot Tub Time Machine followed by delectable burgers at Village Smokehouse... which makes her the girl of your dreams.

Ten Days of Singles: Day 8

2010-04-03T23:31:00.003-04:00

Day 8

Single #11:
Rassul

Rassul has flip-flopped between coasts and weather, having grown up in Maine, attended college in Texas, and now back in Boston with the smaht kids at Harvard Business School. Not only is he smart, but he's sensitive too. This man is a poet, and he doesn't even know it. I bet his feet show it. Let's hope he doesn't blow it (on the date, of course).

Actually, he does know it. Rassul toured as a professional poet for a while, performing in venues as big as the House of Blues in New Orleans with 1,000+ in attendance.

Prepare yourself for a gourmet, home-cooked meal, paired with wine. And in case you might be intimidated at a 1:1 dinner, Rassul will cook for three couples - so bring along four of your couple friends to make for a cozy dinner for six.

If your date goes well, perhaps YOU will be the subject of his next performance piece!

Ten Days of Singles: Day 7

2010-04-03T09:19:00.005-04:00

Day 7
Single #10:
Jenni

Jenni is a giant firecracker wrapped up in a barely 5'2" frame. She's still a Phila girl at heart and loves the Phillies and the Eagles, her family, dogs in sweaters, and going to the gym. She's run a marathon and is currently training for the Cape Cod relay. Jenni's claim to fame among her closest friends is her ability to write sharp, witty status updates on Facebook, thus creating giggles and some envy across the world.

Unlike most people, Jenni doesn't get freaked out by old people. In fact, she enjoys spending time with them, which is why she just took a job at a place where old people go to recover from illness or surgery. Jenni is going to try to use her Psychology, Social Work, and Business degrees to make life better for our grandparents and their canasta buddies.

Jenni still doesn't know what her date will be, but she promises it won't be joining the monthly bridge game at the old folks' home.

Ten Days of Singles: Day 6

2010-04-02T10:33:00.003-04:00

Day 6

Single #9:

Amy

Amy will set your socks on fire. This sexy single has a penchant for office supplies, and can charm just about any law enforcement officer into doing whatever she wants. Amy is fiercely loyal to her friends and has a bit of a save-the-world attitude, too (when she's not being sarcastic) - her current crusade is single-handedly curing cancer.

After sustaining a torn ACL while attempting a 720 on skis on a half pipe up at Stowe, Amy re-assigned herself to head Cheerleader for the DFMC runners and has done a standout job. As such, you'll see her on the sidelines of the 2010 marathon, but she'll be leading the pack in 2011.

Amy's date is still being finalized, but it will likely involve firearms, safety goggles, ear protection, and beer. Not necessarily all at once.

Ten Days of Singles: Day 5

2010-04-01T10:00:00.008-04:00

Day 5

Singles 6, 7, & 8:
Ed, Tom, and Jorge

Ladies, you are in for a treat. Represented in the auction is the Boston Triathlon Team, with team members Ed and Jorge and "honorary" team member Tom. These guys are not only fun, they are also in incredible shape! And best of all, they are uber competitive - not only do they compete on the race course, they are competing against each other to raise money. Because each, of course, is convinced that they'll raise more in the auction than the others :). Come out and bid on these fabulous specimens!

Ed is a corporate attorney by day (and some evenings and weekends) and an active member of the Boston Triathlon Team (BTT) at all other times. He goes to extremes to support any athletic endeavor, like auctioning himself off to help two fabulous gals training for the Boston Marathon raise money for Dana-Farber. When not working or training, Ed can usually be found hobbling around town on crutches rehabbing his many knee injuries, though Ed has assured us that his knee is good to go for his action-packed, fun-filled date.

While Ed is finalizing the details of the “date,” he promises that it will be fun, there is minimal chance you will need to file a restraining order after the date, and it will be at a public venue so you can leave that taser at home. But what he can tell you is it will likely involve an early dinner in the South End followed by an evening at the Wine Riot a week from the auction on Saturday, April 17^th. So fasten your seatbelts and be ready to have some fun!

Tom is a sales guy who loves to hang around with the BTT crew. And he must be cool since they keep him around. Quick on his feet, Tom loves martial arts and salsa dancing - betcha he could show the karate kid some moves (the Ralph Macchio version, not the new Jaden Smith wannabe).

Anyone who is a blood donor has to be a pretty good guy. Tom has ties to the Woo (went to Assumption), has some smarts (got his MBA), and loves to cook. A quick stalker look at his Facebook page tells us he also loves 80s music and Napoleon Dynamite...a fabulous combination.

Tom's passion (when not ice fishing) is cooking - maybe that will be his date? You'll have to stay tuned to find out.

Jorge was born and raised in Mexico City, though is family background is mostly European. He came to Boston 12 years ago for undergrad and has been here ever since, still trying to master the Boston accent. Jorge's full time gig is as a business analyst for Children's Hospital Boston through he also has a small business coaching endurance sports. He has an active life as a cyclist, runner, and triathlete and has qualified for the Boston Marathon and the Triathlon World Championship 70.3. Jorge loves running, cooking, dancing, going out, and traveling.

The date hasn't been finalized but it most likely will include dinner out, salsa dancing, and more.

Ten Days of Singles: Day 4

2010-03-30T22:39:00.007-04:00

Day 4

Single #5:
Tony

(As narrated by the guy in the Old Spice commercial)

Ladies, have you ever met a man from South Dakota?

Do you even know what South Dakota is?

It's a state. And men from South Dakota aren't like men from Boston. Because men from South Dakota aren't women.

They don't suntan; they play with fire.
They don't watch reality TV; they read books (without looking at the pages).
They don't stir martinis; they shake them. With no hands.

Now, you might be wondering, what kind of date can I expect with a man like Tony?

We'll, he'll give you two answers:
1. An extraordinary wine tasting and cocoa discovery experience at Boston's newest shop on Newbury Street...Hotel Chocolat.
2. The best date of your life.

Tony...lover, fighter, bald (by choice).

Ten Days of Singles: Day 3

2010-03-30T11:06:00.007-04:00

Day 3

Single #4:
Eric

Eric is a stand-up guy who passes his days working at Dana-Farber and is also logging miles training for the Boston Marathon with the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team. He excels at shaving, believes in karma when it's good to him, and would go to Queenstown, New Zealand if he could go anywhere in the world.

Eric was talked out of the couples massage, dinner in the North End, and hotel stay at the Westin, understanding that that may be a lot for a first date. So instead, he's considering an alternative: the 2010 Boston Bacon & Beer Festival, held Saturday April 24th at the historic Power Station in the South End.

Stay tuned to see if you'll get to wash down your pork with an IPA and Eric; you're in for a treat with this guy.

Ten Days of Singles: Day 2

2010-03-29T21:31:00.002-04:00

Day 2
Single #3:
Ashley

Spend an evening with Ashley at Fenway Park on April 23rd as the Boston Red Sox take on the Baltimore Orioles. Ashley will even throw in a few beers to get the evening started.

As you can see, this blonde is not only athletic and good looking and can shotgun a beer with the best of them, but she's got the smarts too - she's getting her MBA at Boston College!

10 Days of Singles Starts Now!

2010-03-28T18:37:00.006-04:00

Day 1

Singles #1 & #2:
Amanda & Courtney

It should come as no surprise to you that your blog hostesses are auctioning themselves off in the name of Dana-Farber. You already know their story... after becoming fast friends at grad school, Amanda twisted Courtney's arm and convinced her to run the marathon... and the rest is history!

Amanda's a bog girl (she works at Ocean Spray) but can be spotted out on the town at night and on the weekends. Having come to Boston by way of Colorado and then California, Amanda loves the outdoors and can carve fresh powder on her snowboard in the winter and soak up the rays on the beach in the summer. Equally at ease in sweats and sequins, look for Amanda pounding out miles of pavement or dancing the night away downtown.

Her date is still under wraps, but if you like to golf, you may be in for a treat!

Courtney hails from the Woo (a.k.a. Wustah) but luckily left her accent there when she moved away before college. A double Eagle, don't find yourself rooting for Notre Dame or the Yankees when she's around. Courtney tries to save the world from its various perils, which is why you'll find her working at Dana-Farber. She loves to cook and entertain, explore the city, hurdle down mountains on skis (no snowboarding for this chica), taste new beers, and snuggle in front of fireplaces.

Indecisive as usual, Courtney still hasn't decided on her date.

The light at the end of the tunnel

2010-03-24T10:09:00.000-04:00

Facebook told me this morning that it is exactly 26.2 days until Marathon Monday! Thank goodness we all seem to be picking up a little speed from the lackluster last few weeks. It's funny to read all my teammates blogs, as most people, like Courtney and I, have been burning the candle at both ends. But this week is going to be the turnaround point for me, because I can definitely see the light at the end of the tunnel.

This past weekend the weather was simply amazing. It got close to 70 degrees on Saturday, and the conditions were spectacular for the Half of Quincy on Sunday. Courtney and I ran with a few other DFMCers, and we were all cheered on by our teammates Amy, Stephanie and Eric. If you remember, I ran a PR at the Hyannis Half Marathon in February, and I thought it would be difficult to beat that given the rough week I had last week. But I was able to finish 1 minute ahead of my Hyannis time in 2:05:01. YAY! for new PRs! Courtney did amazing as well, and broke the 2 hour mark. She has the makings of an elite runner I tell you.

This week is a light training week in anticipation of the 20+ mile run this weekend. We'll be running from Boston College backwards along the marathon course for about 10 miles, then turn around and come right back up Heartbreak Hill. Sounds like a great way to spend a Saturday morning, no? Thankfully we will get to celebrate that evening at Sean and Steph's annual fundraiser at Beantown Pub. If you're in the area, come by - it is sure to be a good time!

Lead Legs and the Little Engine that Could

2010-03-19T13:25:00.003-04:00

Last night, I ran 7.5 miles and had lead legs the entire way. The lead legs were the latest addition to an overall loss of "oomph" that Amanda and other bloggers like Brenda have talked about. I'm tired. I feel like I'm getting slower, not faster. My runs are getting harder, not easier. My digestive system is not happy with me running. My knees are whining. And so on.

Yet...I came home yesterday from my lead legged run to find a small purple envelope in my mailbox from my friend Jackie. I had no idea why she would be sending me a card. When I opened it up, there was a picture of a railroad car going up a hill, and it said "You can make
it."

Instantly, my mood brightened. Images of The Little Engine That Could filled my mind, and Jackie's upbeat encouragement and vote of confidence reminded me that yes, I CAN do this. She's run a marathon, and she knows about hitting a wall, and losing motivation. Her card
could not have come at a better time.

So Jackie, thank you. And thank you to everyone for the little things that keep me (and Amanda, and our teammates) going through the good runs and the bad. Fugly hats and iTunes gift cards. Chicken soup dinners. Commiserating. Post-run pancake brunches and Chick-Fil-A field trips. Golf fundraisers. Commenting on our blog. Taking Marathon Monday off from work. Cheering squads at races. Asking about training and actually caring about the response. Planning your spectating location. Donating money.

I've been training for four and a half months. The marathon is one month from today. Bring it on!

It's been a long week.

2010-03-15T15:33:00.000-04:00

It was a tough week for me last week. I've been burning the candle at both ends for a while now, and it finally all caught up with me. I wasn't feeling good, my runs were getting slow and the weather was not making it any better. I decided to lay low for the week, and gear up for the last 5 weeks of training.

The one highlight of my week was spending a fabulous afternoon inside, and away from the rain, with my Patient Partner Kira at the Poster Party. If you remember from my previous post, Kira was diagnosed with Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytomas, which are slow growing tumors, in 2006. She is an amazing kid, with such a positive attitude and outlook. I have really enjoyed getting to know her over the past few months, and hope that we will continue to stay in touch after the marathon. The 26.2 miles from Hopkinton to Boston doesn't even begin to compare to the journey Kira has been on over the past 4 years. Kira is a true inspiration to me, and I know that her encouragement and smiling face at mile 25 in Kenmore Square will definitely help me get to the finish line. To borrow a quote from DFMC teammate Caitie's blog, "only the best kids get cancer. The most special, amazing kids. Because those are the kids that can handle it. And those are the kids who will fight it with everything they have.” Even though Caitie was talking about Justin's patient partner Stanley, I know Kira is one of those best kids too.

Our afternoon was spent decorating Kira's poster for marathon weekend, and decorating YUMMY shortbread cookies with frosting and toppings. Kira had a design strategy of glitter and sparkles for her poster, and Katana, Kira's sister was a big help. What a fun afternoon! Take a look at the great pics Kira's mom Renee took from the day.

Hard at work on Kira's poster.

Taking a smile break.

Highlighting Kira's name in yellow so it "stands out".

Katana was a BIG help!

Kira and I with her finished poster!

Hard at work decorating cookies.

Once a teammate, Always a teammate.

2010-03-12T13:41:00.006-05:00

I had a really hard time deciding what to post this week. I could hype our Date Auction, or talk about what a hit our Mandell Designs necklaces have been. I could highlight the generosity of our donors, or update you on the training miles I've logged (over 300 now!).

But I think instead I'd like to write about spirit, determination, and inspiration.

Three of my teammates have recently learned that they need to take a break from running. Each has listened to their respective tear, fracture, and infection, and will not be running on April 19th.

I know that Amy, Mark, and Helen haven't asked to be the subject of my blog, and they are each mentally working through their own shock, denial, anger, etc. And I would hate for this post to seem like dwelling on their injuries. But - Amanda and I want them to know that from our perspective, you are each very much still a DFMC teammate. We are in awe at your ability to remain positive, and that you want to stay involved. You are an inspiration in your quest to continue raising money for Dana-Farber, and in honor of that, part of the proceeds from our Date Auction will be contributed to Amy, Mark, and Helen's fundraising.

Personally, I will be running the Marathon with the names of people who are inspiring my run written on the inside of my arm. It serves as a reminder that the run is not about me; it has a much bigger purpose and many who will benefit. Amy, Mark, and Helen will join the fighters, survivors, and inspirations on that list.

Finally (and perhaps most importantly), there's the small topic of the DFMC team photo. Don't worry, we've got that figured out. We will mount your likeness on a stick and carry you with us to the photo, where you will forever be included in the 2010 Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team. As it should be.

Disclaimer: I stole the picture of Tina Fey from Google; she won't actually be the one holding your faces in the group shot. And I borrowed Helen, Amy, and Mark from Facebook.

Spring...finally.

2010-03-10T10:56:00.002-05:00

Where has the time gone? I swear we still had months to go, but now we are down to weeks. Less than 6 weeks from today we will be running Boston. CRAZY!

With that, it means that spring has finally almost arrived in New England. On our Saturday group run last weekend (16 miles of "rolling" hills), we were almost hit by a herd of deer. Imagine about 20 runners running down a road in Waltham when our teammate Kelly says, "Oh dear". We all assumed she was talking about her run/shoes/anything, just not actual deer. I think there were at least 10 that came out of the woods and ran across the street right in front of us. Good thing we're slow, or that might have been dangerous! In addition to the deer sighting, I was finally able wear capris and a t-shirt for the run! IT WAS AMAZING! The run itself felt even better since I wasn't all bundled up with gloves and a hat and wool socks. I felt free :) Let's hope the weather on April 19th is similar.

We hope you received the Evite/FB invite to our fundraising party on April 10th at An Tua Nua in Boston. If not, shoot us an email and we will add you to the list. We promise it will be a great time. The singles we selected (through a rigorous application process) are busy planning their dates, and getting themselves ready for the big night. Make sure you do the same, and come bid on a date that will help cure cancer at the same time! Stayed tuned to the blog for the upcoming "10 Days of Singles", where we will reveal the guys and girls on the auction block. I know I am excited...are you EXCITED?!

Preparing for the Big Day

2010-03-04T12:16:00.003-05:00

Mom: I'm worried that there will be so many people running, I won't see you and Amanda go by.

Courtney: Don't worry. We know exactly where you will be standing. And we'll make sure we're on that side of the street. And our singlets are bright orange.

Mom: Ok. (Still skeptical) Well, can you also call a few minutes before you get there so we won't miss you?

Courtney: (Pause.) Mom, I won't be running with a cell phone.

Mom: (Somewhat incredulous) Really?

You may have watched the marathon before, but if you've never been watching for your daughter / sister / classmate / colleague / friend / cousin, you too may need some help preparing.

Have no fear. Amanda and I are preparing a handy guide:

"How to watch the marathon:
Specifically, how to cheer for Amanda and Courtney"

It will be filled with surefire tips to not miss us as we cruise by you, including how to use the BAA's runner tracker, preferred dimensions and text on the signs you make, good excuses for getting the day off from work, and who else might need some encouragement along the route.

There are fewer than 7 weeks until the marathon. We're getting ready, it's time for you to start doing the same.

Hello PR :)

2010-03-01T11:46:00.000-05:00

What a great race this weekend! Both Courtney and I kicked butt at the Hyannis Half Marathon! I beat my past half marathon time, which if you remember was 2:18:22, by OVER TEN MINUTES! I officially crossed the finish line at 2:06:24. Simply amazing! I couldn't do it without the help of my teammates who run just that much faster than me, and kept me motivated to keep up the faster pace.

Today, my legs are super sore, and it was definitely a chore walking up the steps to my office. I plan on doing some gentle arc training this afternoon to get my legs moving again, since this week is going to be a very hard training week. We're scheduled to run 16-18 miles this weekend...and I thought 13.1 was a lot!

On a fundraising note, BOTH Courtney and I have each hit the $5,000 mark! Special thanks to ALL of our friends and family who have already donated. We couldn't do this without your support. If you haven't donated yet, but would like to get involved, visit our fundraising pages - AMANDA and COURTNEY - or save the date for our Fundraising event on Saturday, April 10th. Details to come shortly, so stayed tuned....

What's YOUR reason?

2010-02-24T09:31:00.008-05:00

Amanda and I have great internal motivation to get us through training and race day, but we look to our fellow runners, supporters, friends, and family to help propel us along as well. Friday, January 8th marked 100 days until the Boston Marathon. In the past 50 days, we've compiled reasons to run...please help give us 50 more - any little nugget of humor, sentiment, inspiration, or memory to guide us through the miles.

E-mail us your reasons, or use the blog's comment function to post!

39 days (Anonymous, teammate): I am running today, so that those who can't will be able to run tomorrow.
40 days (Courtney): Because what does not kill you makes you stronger.
41 days (Steph, teammate): Because my husband/wife/family/friends/co-workers find me a lot more manageable when I've been running...
42 days (Steph, teammate): Because for a few hours on Marathon Monday a 'regular' runner like myself can feel like an elite.
43 days (Amy, teammate): Because your glycogen stores are full and you need to do something to deplete them...
44 days (Gene, supporter): Because the money you raise will not only help patients today, but hopefully prevent people from being patients tomorrow.
45 days (Brandy, supporter): Because bikini season is coming up and you'll have some killer limbs to show off!
46 days (Pam, teammate): Initially running to fulfill a dream, now I'm running to give hope, inspiration,and resources to those with cancer.
47 days (Courtney): Because I am honored to run in the memory of a 16 year old young woman who passed away far too young, and whose family will never forget their Dana-Farber experience.
48 days (Courtney): Because pants that have always been a little too small now are too loose.
49 days (Jon, supporter and Boston Marathon alum): Because running 26.2 miles is easier than drinking 26.2 beers in the same amount of time...
50 days (Jeff, teammate): I run because I am being metaphorically chased.
51 days (Jeff, teammate): Because football season is over, and I need to stay in shape for next tailgating season!
52 days (Melissa, supporter and Boston Marathon alum): Because "actions speak louder than intentions" - stolen from an Adidas billboard along the course last year
53 days (Dotto, supporter): Because it improves your lung capacity for singing.
54 days (Emil Zatopek, via Eric, DFMC teammate): Because "we are different, in essence, from other men. If you want to win something, run 100 meters. If you want to experience something, run a marathon."
55 days (Paul Fetscher via Eric, DFMC teammate): Because "if I want to tell you the most about a person in the fewest words, I simply say, 'he's a runner.'"
56 days (Don Kardong via Tyler, DFMC teammate): Because "there's no such thing as a bad carbohydrate.”
57 days (Anonymous via Alicia, DFMC teammate): "Because toenails are for sissies."
58 days (Anonymous via Alicia, DFMC teammate): "At mile 20 I thought I was dead, at mile 22 I wished I was dead, At mile 24 I knew I was dead, at mile 26.2 I knew nothing could kill me."
59 days (Anonymous via Alicia, DFMC teammate): "Because a marathon is a 10K with a 20 mile warm up."
60 days (Ben, supporter): "If HE can do it, then YOU can do it!"
61 days (Mary Claire, proud mom and supporter): "Because everytime I log onto the internet and the two of you show up on my homepage - and I read the updates - I smile."
62 days (Nikki, supporter): "Because for each year after when you are a spectator, you can feel the pain and triumph of those running for their cause, yet still enjoy your beer."
63 days (Nikki, supporter): "So for the rest of your life you can start whatever story you want with "Well, when I ran the Boston Marathon..."
64 days (Lauren, supporter): Because how else are you going to burn off all those Thirsty Thursdays?
65 days (Barb, supporter): Because it gives your friends yet another reminder of how lucky they are to have such an amazing, generous, determined, dedicated, special person as their friend!
66 days (Nancy, supporter): Because you're working so hard, in such cold weather, to help fight cancer and find a cure. You inspire me to be a better person.
67 days (Leah, supporter): For the amazing patient partners who make each grueling mile that much more worthwhile.
68 days (Melissa, teammate): Because when I grow up I hope to one day say, "When I was young, there was thing called cancer..." And because beer/pizza on a Thursday night or breakfast on a Saturday morning NEVER tasted sooo good!
69 days (Amy, teammate): Because you get to meet fun new people that become fun new friends...
70 days (Jenni, supporter and Boston Marathon alum): Because you will feel so great going out for an "easy 10-miler" sometime soon.
71 days (Lindsey, teammate and Boston Marathon alum): Because every year that I write up my DFMC application, I have to add the name of another loved one diagnosed with cancer. And well, chocolate and a post run cold beverage never tasted so good.
72 days (Brandy, supporter): So that grandchildren may have the opportunity to get to know their grandparents.
73 days (Michelle, supporter): To bond with strangers before the sun wakes up on a day that could be filled with sun, snow, rain, extreme cold or heat and look back on it with a huge sense of pride and accomplishment.
74 days (Courtney): Because I was peer pressured. I'm blaming every injury, ache, and pain on Amanda for bullying me into signing up. And every day, thanking her for encouraging me to do something I never thought was possible.
75 days (Courtney): If running was easy, everyone would be doing it. I run in honor of the ones who cannot. (I partly stole that from Steph's 1/22/10 blog post.)
76 days (Leah, supporter & Boston Marathon alum): For the shiny medal at the end.
77 days (Jackie, supporter & Boston Marathon alum): In the words of the 2006 Boston Marathon ADIDAS ad campaign: The Shiny Blanket.
78 days (Ryan, supporter & Boston Marathon alum): Because the guilt free eating and drinking after the race is worth 3 months of training through the winter!
79 Days (Jen, supporter): Because despite the incredible advances that DFCI and its partners in industry have made, and the life changing outcomes that are now possible, cancer treatment still sucks.
80 Days (Amanda): Because my Jimmy Fund Clinic Patient Partner, Kira, is an amazing 8 year old who has gone through so much, with such a positive attitude. I cannot wait to meet her!
81 Days (A proud Dad observing two extraordinary young women): Because 26 miles from now, oops, years from now, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute will have to drop "cancer" from its name because of the extraordinary sacrifices of runners and supporters and survivors.
82 Days (Mark, teammate): Because it's quicker than walking.
83 days (Michelle, supporter): Proving that no matter how much you think you aren't a runner, with the proper training you can be.
84 days (Marcy, teammate): (Courtesy of a tea tag) You will feel fulfilled when you do the impossible for someone else.
85 days (Mary Claire, supporter): Because someday one of us - or a family member - could need the services of a Dana-Farber type institution.
86 days (Sean & Steph, teammates): Because I can combine my selfish goal of becoming a stronger person, both physically and mentally; with the selfless goal of committing my time and energy to supporting an amazing cause that hopes to find a cure for cancer.
87 days (Michael, teammate): Because when we run 35-40 miles a week, we can eat all the ice cream we want.
88 days (Michael, teammate): Because we can SHOW our kids that there are things that are so important to do that we stick with them no matter how hard they are.
89 days (Brandy, supporter): Because you are able to do this together! and hold each other up. Such a wonderful thing you're doing! xx!
90 days (Charlotte, supporter): Because you will get a chance to see my smiling face at mile 20.
91 days (Lori, supporter): Because people like my brave strong friend JWP deserve a chance at a full recovery and a long life with her family and friends thanks to well-funded cancer research.
92 days (Jeff, supporter): Because everyone knows at least one survivor.
93 days (Jeff, supporter): Because few things in life feel more exhilarating than working so hard that you are actually sweating in below freezing weather.
94 days (Jeff, supporter): Because 20 years from now, you'll be shocked you were ever in such good shape.
95 days (Erin, supporter): Because you can! And so many others can't! So proud of you!
96 days (Leah, supporter & Boston Marathon alum): Because nothing says "hard-core" like running 15 miles on a Saturday morning in single digit weather.
97 days (Marcy, teammate): Because running for Dana-Farber allow you to heal your heart, your mind, your body and your soul. You come out a new person in the end, even with all the wear and tear. You learn what is truly important and learn that even on the hardest day of your life running 9 miles can give you a brand new outlook.
98 days (Brian, teammate): What Amanda said [99 days], because it deserves to be at least more than one reason.
99 days (Amanda): Because Thursday nights at Crossroads is the new weekend night.
100 days (Courtney): For clear 6 month PET scans and bringing MORE GOOD NEWS to families.

My life as a marathoner begins today...

2010-02-22T12:36:00.001-05:00

So it's only 2 months away, and I really need to start getting down to business with my training. No more excuses for not working out. After a fabulous weekend in Stowe, I am ready to hit the ground running (ha) on my training and my diet, so that I am ready come April 19th.

I have already planned my runs out for the week, and I am going to see a bit of a jump in my weekly miles. I have a 5 mile run scheduled tonight along the Charles. Tomorrow, I'm going to start track speed workouts with the DF team, which should prove to be helpful in decreasing my time per mile. Wednesday, we have a DFMC meeting and will be learning all about nutrition for runners. Which is perfect given my new marathoner lifestyle. The rest of this week's runs will be light in anticipation of the Hyannis Half Marathon on Sunday. Hopefully, the meteorologist is wrong again with the prediction of wind, rain and snow hitting the Cape this week, or at least things clear up before the start of the race on Sunday morning. Fingers crossed!

My goal for this half marathon is to beat my PR of 2:18:22. From the looks of my training so far, I should be fine beating that time, but you never know what race day has in store for me. I'll update the blog as soon as I know the results.

My life for the next two months will consist of 3 thing: Running, Sleeping and Eating. Oh, and closing on my new condo. When is life supposed to slow down??

What a weekend!

2010-02-16T08:47:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a great long weekend. I unfortunately didn't have Monday off, but it was still a really great weekend with my parents in town. My running friends and I decided to skip the official DFMC group run and run along the course. Our teammate Jeff was nice enough get up early and set up a makeshift water stop about 5 miles out. He had the BEST Gatorade I have ever had - Tropical Mango. It is AMAZING! Afterwards, we had a celebratory breakfast at Eagle's Deli. For those of you who are unfamiliar with Eagle's Deli, it's a Boston College staple, which has recently been renovated and looks great. Regardless of the look, they still make a mean egg and cheese sandwich!

This week is going to be pretty busy - I am meeting my patient partner, Kira and her family, tomorrow night! I am really looking foward to getting to know her after learning so much about her! Did anyone happen to catch the Chronicle HD special on Dana-Farber? Kira had a few cameos....she's such a movie star.

This weekend, a group of DFMCers are heading up to Stowe, VT for a fun ski/snowboard weekend. I am very much looking forward to getting out of the city for a bit. Becuase we'll be hitting the slopes on Saturday and Sunday, we are doing our long run (about 12 miles) on Thursday night. Hopefully the snow will stop before then, so the conditions aren't too awful.

Here's to a short rest of the week! Can't wait for my half day on Friday!

Mandell Designs Necklaces are Here!

2010-02-14T21:51:00.004-05:00

Mandell Designs necklaces are here!

...click on the photo above for a closer view...

There are two to choose from:

Turquoise howlite with a smoky quartz briolette, or
Red sponge coral with white howlite briolette.

These are available in a limited quantity for $60 each; all profits will go towards our marathon fundraising. Each of the necklaces is approximately 18" in length, and the clasps are adjustable so that they can be worn short (about 19") or up to 2" longer.

Email us at RunningForDFMC@gmail.com if you're interested!

You're Auctioning off WHAT?!

2010-02-10T22:17:00.002-05:00

You may have heard the rumors, and they are true:
The 2010, no holds barred, night to remember, DATE AUCTION is here!

Mark your calendars: on Saturday, April 10th, a dozen or so fabulous singles will be offering their company, conversation, and incredible date-planning skills to the highest bidders. Our sassy singles will each plan a date - maybe it's 18 holes of golf, or beer and dogs at a Sox game, or a homemade dinner...you'll have to come in person to have a chance to put a date with one of these hot tickets on your calendar.

All are welcome, so spread the word to your friends. Watch the blog for date bios in the coming weeks, so you can come prepared...we promise that you won't be disappointed. And don't be fooled into thinking this is a singles event. Husbands, tired of planning anniversary dinners? Be the highest bidder and send your wife off with a charming young stud while you sneak away for poker night with the guys. Girlfriends, tired of nagging your guy about that "honey do" list? Be the highest bidder and snag a handyman hottie for your date. Guys, overdue for a man date? We'll have the perfect afternoon for you.

$20 at the door; proceeds from the cover and the auction all go to DFCI to support our Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge fundraising.

You won't want to miss this!

Looking for Something?

2010-02-09T22:58:00.004-05:00

Have you heard the rumor? We have Mandell Designs necklaces for sale to benefit our fundraising! The two necklaces, designed especially for DFMC, aren't available on her website, but check out the other awesome jewelry she designs. We'll post photos of our two designs here in the next few days....stay tuned....

10 weeks to go!

2010-02-08T22:40:00.000-05:00

Can you believe it? It seems like we just sent in our application video. Thanks to everyone who has commented on the video - it was a lot of fun to make and hopefully we can do another one before we complete our journey!

And don't forget, we're still collecting 100 reasons to run...click here to read the reasons we have so far, and to leave your reason (or reasonS) to run!

I've noticed a lot of people have asked why I am running another marathon, especially Boston. While completing the 26.2 miles is certainly satisfying, my main motivation is not the actual race. It stems from my association with Dana-Farber. I have the special opportunity to run the 2010 Boston Marathon in honor of Kira, a patient at the Jimmy Fund Clinic at Dana-Farber and a Jimmy Fund Walk Hero. In 2006, Kira was diagnosed with Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytomas, which are slow growing tumors. She’s undergone surgery and 2 rounds of chemotherapy, all the while in great spirits, helping to motivate and encourage other patients at the Jimmy Fund Clinic, the Pediatric Treatment Center at Dana-Farber. I am eager to meet Kira and her family in the next few weeks. This is also Kira’s first year participating in the Patient Partner Program, and after speaking with her mom numerous times, I think she and I will be a great fit.

For those of you in the Boston area, Chronicle HD on channel 5 will be airing a broadcast "Confronting Cancer", a special, 30 minute look at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, featuring a video Dana-Farber created a video to give to new families at the Jimmy Fund Clinic. Both Kira and her sister Katana make a brief appearance in the video, so keep a look out for her!

Less than eleven weeks to go...

2010-02-03T22:41:00.002-05:00

We're still collecting 100 reasons to run...click here to read the reasons we have so far, and to leave your reason (or reasonS) to run!

Another notable post, if you're just getting to the blog for the first time, is our video application for the marathon. We couldn't claim to be super fast, so we used the creativity angle to apply for the team!

-courtney

ouch!

2010-01-30T20:06:00.000-05:00

Thursday was my first experience running Heartbreak Hill. Despite the frigid temps, snow squalls and super slick sidewalks, I think it was a huge success! My body hated me yesterday though, as it was quite a chore to walk up and down the steps to my office. Such is the life of a marathoner I guess! Thank god for the stick and foam rollers :)

Don't forget - We're still looking for more reasons to run, so post a comment and let us know why we will be running the Marathon....Only 78 more days to go!

Miscellaneous Musings of a First Time Marathoner, part 2

2010-01-25T14:27:00.006-05:00

[For part 1, click here]

When is it an injury versus just a topic for conversation?
I have quickly learned that runners, especially new ones, like to talk about their running. Which is great for me because I'm picking up all sorts of tips just by listening (don't take Gu without water, your fuel belt WILL freeze on some long runs, carry toilet paper to the starting line, etc.). Injuries are a favorite topic.

If everyone has the same basic injuries (runners knee, IT band...), does that mean they cancel each other out and you shouldn't talk about them? Or does it mean you can talk about them even more? If someone is injury-free, should they make something up to be able to contribute to the conversation? Are they considered less of a runner because they're lacking an ailment? Do guys actually hurt less, or do they just talk less about their injuries? What do they talk about instead?

There's so much to learn...

"Take it slow..."
...is code for "let's run as fast as you've ever run and also throw in some hills." Despite it being my first time on "the hills" (the nasty stretch of route 30) and 3 days before Steph was going to run 16 miles of hills in Derry, NH, we did not "take it slow" as originally agreed.

Lesson learned: abandoning the plan is sometimes necessary, especially when you're afraid that the four guys in day-glo who are in front of you might get back and eat all the pizza before you finish your run.

Is the pain from vacation or shoes?
On Sunday, I went for a 5 mile jog after having taken a mini vacation (i.e. no exercise other than walking around Manhattan) for two days. I've done all of my running to date in stability shoes, but on Sunday I put on a high quality pair of neutral cushion shoes. It was miserable...significant calf soreness after half a mile, and aching shins that progressed to the beginning of shin splints by 2 miles. I had to switch to walking to get my legs back under control.

So the question is this: were my legs angry with me for taking two days off, and this was their way of showing it? Or am I meant to run in stability shoes, and even 5 miles at a slow pace is too much to run in a neutral shoe?

A hypothesis worthy of further investigation.

Sidewalk etiquette
I am not the first, nor will I be the last, runner to say this, but PLEASE: when you're walking 2, 3, 4 people across on a sidewalk, and someone comes running toward you, we would really appreciate it if you'd step aside, just a little. We are agile but would prefer not to have to play Red Rover in the middle of the sidewalk. Because it would not end well...

...for you.

100 reasons to run
If you haven't seen it yet, scroll down or click here to read the growing list of reasons to run the Boston Marathon for Dana-Farber. They are sweet, funny, and sentimental - please help us tally 100 reasons to run by adding your own.

A Different Way to Run

2010-01-17T15:47:00.003-05:00

I tried out a new running partner on Friday. His name is MacTavish, he's 95 pounds, and he is a beautiful Gordon Setter. Mac's parents are out of town, so I'm in charge of feeding him, exercising him, and making sure his long strings of drool don't get all over everything in the house when he does the head-shake thing.

Running with a dog is a new experience for me, and there were definitely some key takeaways (disclaimer - these only apply to Mac; you may have completely different experiences with other dogs...):

1. Don't expect negative splits. Mac was cruising way faster than my 10 minute mile pace in the beginning, but after about 2.5 miles he was trotting behind me. He did sprint the last block with me, though, so he's all about the strong finish.

2. If you're used to occasionally stopping to walk, then running with Mac is great. He has a little A.D.D. so he doesn't stop for too long in any one place (and I have one of those retractable leashes so I can get pretty far ahead of him when he slows down to sniff). But on those occasions when he's stubborn, the leash jerk forces a quick rest.

3. If the dog doesn't stop on hills, neither will I.

4. Great arms workout. Retractable leash in one hand, plastic baggie in the other (no, Ryan, I did not take your advice and just leave it).

5. Dogs are a trip hazard. I pulled a Twinkle Toes maneuver a few times when Mac cut out in front of me, but luckily took no diggers.

6. I've renamed the 5k my "Mac workout," because that's about as far as I can get with him before he gives me the "can we just go home" look.

7. Like people, dogs respond to positive reinforcement. When the going got tough, a "good boy," or "C'mon Mac" made all the difference.

8. The best part - Mac got a great workout, and was so tired that he ate his dinner and pretty much slept for the rest of the night. And considering he usually likes to play human jungle gym when you sit on the couch, or show off his squeaky toys, this was quite a feat.

Happy Thought

2010-01-17T13:00:00.001-05:00

Today I passed 100 miles in my training! What better way to do it then run on the boardwalk in Newport Beach, CA.

Well as soon as I got back to the house, it started pouring. I believe Southern California is getting a monsoon right now. Alas, no beautiful ocean pics. I'll be back though....

100 Days, 100 Reasons to Run

2010-01-08T11:11:00.026-05:00

Today marks 100 days until the marathon. To our fellow runners and supporters: please help us define 100 reasons we're running the marathon, one for every day between now and April 19th.

Use the comments section to give us inspiration, and share why you are running or supporting DFCI.

Happy running!
courtney

[Update: thank you to our teammates and supporters for your fabulous reasons to run. Keep 'em coming!]

41 days (KMP, via Boston.com's Why I Run): Because it feels special knowing that few people have ever seen how beautiful the sunrise over Boston is from the Charles River bike bath under the BU bridge.
42 days (Kristen, via Boston.com's Why I Run): To build physical and mental toughness, which serve me well in other aspects of life.
43 days (Courtney): Because it is distraction from a Virginia PET scan.
44 days (Erin, via Boston.com's Why I Run): Because it satisfies my yearning for adventure, my insatiable sense of inquiry, and my desire to experience the world in ways inimitable.
45 days (Carol, via Boston.com's Why I Run): Because running is an escape from the chemo and radiation treatments.
46 days (Anonymous): Because D.A. should be planning for graduation parties, not for treatment for metastatic cancer.
47 days (Courtney): Because I am honored to run in the memory of a 16 year old young woman who passed away far too young, and whose family will never forget the Dana-Farber experience.
48 days (Courtney): Because pants that have always been a little too small now are too loose.
49 days (Jon, supporter and Boston Marathon alum): Because running 26.2 miles is easier than drinking 26.2 beers in the same amount of time...
50 days (Jeff, teammate): I run because I am being metaphorically chased.
51 days (Jeff, teammate): Because football season is over, and I need to stay in shape for next tailgating season!
52 days (Melissa, supporter and Boston Marathon alum): Because "actions speak louder than intentions" - stolen from an Adidas billboard along the course last year
53 days (Dotto, supporter): Because it improves your lung capacity for singing.
54 days (Emil Zatopek, via Eric, DFMC teammate): Because "we are different, in essence, from other men. If you want to win something, run 100 meters. If you want to experience something, run a marathon."
55 days (Paul Fetscher via Eric, DFMC teammate): Because "if I want to tell you the most about a person in the fewest words, I simply say, 'he's a runner.'"
56 days (Don Kardong via Tyler, DFMC teammate): Because "there's no such thing as a bad carbohydrate.”
57 days (Anonymous via Alicia, DFMC teammate): "Because toenails are for sissies."
58 days (Anonymous via Alicia, DFMC teammate): "At mile 20 I thought I was dead, at mile 22 I wished I was dead, At mile 24 I knew I was dead, at mile 26.2 I knew nothing could kill me."
59 days (Anonymous via Alicia, DFMC teammate): "Because a marathon is a 10K with a 20 mile warm up."
60 days (Ben, supporter): "If HE can do it, then YOU can do it!"
61 days (Mary Claire, proud mom and supporter): "Because everytime I log onto the internet and the two of you show up on my homepage - and I read the updates - I smile."
62 days (Nikki, supporter): "Because for each year after when you are a spectator, you can feel the pain and triumph of those running for their cause, yet still enjoy your beer."
63 days (Nikki, supporter): "So for the rest of your life you can start whatever story you want with "Well, when I ran the Boston Marathon..."
64 days (Lauren, supporter): Because how else are you going to burn off all those Thirsty Thursdays?
65 days (Barb, supporter): Because it gives your friends yet another reminder of how lucky they are to have such an amazing, generous, determined, dedicated, special person as their friend!
66 days (Nancy, supporter): Because you're working so hard, in such cold weather, to help fight cancer and find a cure. You inspire me to be a better person.
67 days (Leah, supporter): For the amazing patient partners who make each grueling mile that much more worthwhile.
68 days (Melissa, teammate): Because when I grow up I hope to one day say, "When I was young, there was thing called cancer..." And because beer/pizza on a Thursday night or breakfast on a Saturday morning NEVER tasted sooo good!
69 days (Amy, teammate): Because you get to meet fun new people that become fun new friends...
70 days (Jenni, supporter and Boston Marathon alum): Because you will feel so great going out for an "easy 10-miler" sometime soon.
71 days (Lindsey, teammate and Boston Marathon alum): Because every year that I write up my DFMC application, I have to add the name of another loved one diagnosed with cancer. And well, chocolate and a post run cold beverage never tasted so good.
72 days (Brandy, supporter): So that grandchildren may have the opportunity to get to know their grandparents.
73 days (Michelle, supporter): To bond with strangers before the sun wakes up on a day that could be filled with sun, snow, rain, extreme cold or heat and look back on it with a huge sense of pride and accomplishment.
74 days (Courtney): Because I was peer pressured. I'm blaming every injury, ache, and pain on Amanda for bullying me into signing up. And every day, thanking her for encouraging me to do something I never thought was possible.
75 days (Courtney): If running was easy, everyone would be doing it. I run in honor of the ones who cannot. (I partly stole that from Steph's 1/22/10 blog post.)
76 days (Leah, supporter & Boston Marathon alum): For the shiny medal at the end.
77 days (Jackie, supporter & Boston Marathon alum): In the words of the 2006 Boston Marathon ADIDAS ad campaign: The Shiny Blanket.
78 days (Ryan, supporter & Boston Marathon alum): Because the guilt free eating and drinking after the race is worth 3 months of training through the winter!
79 Days (Jen, supporter): Because despite the incredible advances that DFCI and its partners in industry have made, and the life changing outcomes that are now possible, cancer treatment still sucks.
80 Days (Amanda): Because my Jimmy Fund Clinic Patient Partner, Kira, is an amazing 8 year old who has gone through so much, with such a positive attitude. I cannot wait to meet her!
81 Days (A proud Dad observing two extraordinary young women): Because 26 miles from now, oops, years from now, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute will have to drop "cancer" from its name because of the extraordinary sacrifices of runners and supporters and survivors.
82 Days (Mark, teammate): Because it's quicker than walking.
83 days (Michelle, supporter): Proving that no matter how much you think you aren't a runner, with the proper training you can be.
84 days (Marcy, teammate): (Courtesy of a tea tag) You will feel fulfilled when you do the impossible for someone else.
85 days (Mary Claire, supporter): Because someday one of us - or a family member - could need the services of a Dana-Farber type institution.
86 days (Sean & Steph, teammates): Because I can combine my selfish goal of becoming a stronger person, both physically and mentally; with the selfless goal of committing my time and energy to supporting an amazing cause that hopes to find a cure for cancer.
87 days (Michael, teammate): Because when we run 35-40 miles a week, we can eat all the ice cream we want.
88 days (Michael, teammate): Because we can SHOW our kids that there are things that are so important to do that we stick with them no matter how hard they are.
89 days (Brandy, supporter): Because you are able to do this together! and hold each other up. Such a wonderful thing you're doing! xx!
90 days (Charlotte, supporter): Because you will get a chance to see my smiling face at mile 20.
91 days (Lori, supporter): Because people like my brave strong friend JWP deserve a chance at a full recovery and a long life with her family and friends thanks to well-funded cancer research.
92 days (Jeff, supporter): Because everyone knows at least one survivor.
93 days (Jeff, supporter): Because few things in life feel more exhilarating than working so hard that you are actually sweating in below freezing weather.
94 days (Jeff, supporter): Because 20 years from now, you'll be shocked you were ever in such good shape.
95 days (Erin, supporter): Because you can! And so many others can't! So proud of you!
96 days (Leah, supporter & Boston Marathon alum): Because nothing says "hard-core" like running 15 miles on a Saturday morning in single digit weather.
97 days (Marcy, teammate): Because running for Dana-Farber allow you to heal your heart, your mind, your body and your soul. You come out a new person in the end, even with all the wear and tear. You learn what is truly important and learn that even on the hardest day of your life running 9 miles can give you a brand new outlook.
98 days (Brian, teammate): What Amanda said [99 days], because it deserves to be at least more than one reason.
99 days (Amanda): Because Thursday nights at Crossroads is the new weekend night.
100 days (Courtney): For clear 6 month PET scans and bringing MORE GOOD NEWS to families.

It's Officially Official

2010-01-07T14:26:00.003-05:00

I know, I know...you can totally tell that we're newbies, because we are SUPER excited about getting our BAA notification that we are registered.

It's possible that we've both visited www.baa.org on multiple occasions and typed in our names, just to see our entries pop up. If you were to go there, you too could see this...

15 training weeks left before the big day. Fundraising is about to get underway (be on the lookout for some cool events to attend and products you can purchase where the proceeds benefit DFCI), mileage is increasing, roads are getting snowier and icier, and we are getting psyched!

Clear PETs Trump All

2010-01-04T23:21:00.000-05:00

Sorry Amanda, I know you just posted, but today's news trumps new years resolutions.

My friend Jen, one of many in whose honor I am running the marathon, and arguably the closest to me, got word today that her 6 month post-transplant PET scan was clear. She'd been in treatment for relapsed NHL.

That, my friends, is why I'm running. For MORE GOOD NEWS. Congratulations Jen, Peter, Saski, & Zach.

With much, much love,
Courts

New Year's Theme

2010-01-04T14:42:00.000-05:00

New Year’s is all about resolutions. Get to the gym more. Save money. Travel somewhere new. Quit a bad habit. We’ve all made them, and, if you’re like me, broken them repeatedly. Last year, I tried to work a theme into my life instead of a resolution. So I decided to follow up on my successful 2009 with another life theme. Happiness. I will try to make everything I do this year help me to find happiness in all aspects of my life.

Now that the holidays are finally over, I am using this week to get back into a routine. I got the year started off right with a nice 4 mile run on Saturday, followed by a relax and renew yoga class at Baptiste last night. I forgot how hard it is to do yoga for an hour and a half in 95-100 degree temps. For those of you who haven’t experience heated yoga, I definitely recommend it. It makes my body AND mind happy! Needless to say, I will be working yoga back into my weekly routine. You know, amid all the running I’ll be doing!

I'll be heading to the gym tonight for hopefully a nice 5 mile run. January is always so difficult at the gym with all the people who made a resolution to get to the gym more. Such is life. I guess I’ll have to treadmill hop so I stay under the 30 min machine limit.

Barefoot Running?

2009-12-28T13:49:00.001-05:00

My grand ideas about running over the holiday came to a screeching halt when I discovered snow-packed roads and remembered the effects of the over mile-high altitude in Evergreen. However, I was able to enjoy my few days off with my family, had a wonderful Christmas and am definitely ready to kick it into high gear.

Before I left for Colorado, I went to an orthopedic doctor to have my knee checked out before I really got into my training program. I was diagnosed with "runner's knee", obviously a very common running injury. I now have a nifty brace to wear that is supposed to help keep my knee cap in place as I run, and I begin physical therapy tonight to strengthen my legs. Not that I needed another thing to do during the week, but if it helps my running, then that is all that matters.

My doctor was really great, and a runner as well. We started talking about Christopher McDougall's new book, Born to Run. I picked it up on my way to the airport on Wednesday, and couldn't put it down for the entire 4 hour flight. As a previously injured runner, the author changes his training style to emulate the Tarahumara Indians. I am currently at a part in the book where McDougall explains the benefits of running barefoot, or almost barefoot with Vibram Five Fingers shoes. Very interesting concept, as running barefoot is supposed to help lessen the chance of injury due to running, and many ultra marathoners and athletes subscribe to this type of training. While my doctor thought there were some high points to running barefoot, she still recommended that I keep running with my Saucony shoes. I wonder if there will be anyone running Boston in Five Fingers?

Miscellaneous Musings of a First Time Marathoner

2009-12-22T11:00:00.004-05:00

1. Sometimes you just need a kick in the butt, like when Noah reminded me that an ear infection was in my ear, and it's the legs that you use for running. No more excuses.

2. Little things can make you happy, like finding a not-quite-hidden-but-didn't-notice-it-at-first small pocket in my new running pants.

3. Note to self: a hat that fully covers your head but only comes 2/3 of the way down your ears is NOT sufficient at keeping ears warm. Wearing metal hoop earrings while running probably doesn't help either.

4. Thinking that running was an inexpensive sport was clearly naïve.

5. How come shorter distance and slower time can feel harder than longer distance and faster time?

6. Last week, I lost an impromptu race with an empty bag of Cape Cod potato chips that the wind was blowing down Main Street. I was leading for a while, but then it got gusty, and the chips crossed the finish line (i.e. my front steps) before I could get there. Wonder if this is a metaphor for my diet...

Totally Motivated

2009-12-18T15:48:00.001-05:00

Last night, I met a bunch of teammates at Crossroads for a run. It was probably the coldest night we've had in Boston this winter and I am crazy enough to run in it! The forecast: mostly clear, breezy and frigid evening. Single digits to lower teens with wind chill values below zero throughout the night. AWESOME. Thank god for the cute sales guy at Dick's Sporting Goods who convinced me it was a good idea to get the Under Armor Extreme ColdGear Gloves. They worked like a charm, and I was not as freezing as I could have been since I ran in all my cold gear apparel. After the run is a different story though. We got back to Crossroads for a few beers and pizza, and I couldn't seem to warm up. I even had my winter coat on! Luckily I made it an early night, and was able to get the chill off with a hot shower before bed.

I've been meeting so many new people while running, which is always fun. Last night, I officially met some teammates who I consider blog friends. It's funny how I only know these people by their blog handle. But I got to run with them last night, and learn about their lives and reasons why they chose to spend freezing cold evenings running for Dana-Farber. Each person has a different motivating factor, and it has been amazing to hear everyone's story. And I've just hit the top of the iceberg in meeting our teammates - there are over 500 people! It's amazing how many people came together to raise $4.4 million dollars for the Claudia Adams Barr Program and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

In my fundraising news, I'm 35% towards my goal of $6,000!! Thank you so much to all of my donors who have already donated. Every dollar counts and I couldn't do this without your generous support.

SPECIAL THANKS TO MY DONORS: Dave & Mary Claire, Bruce & Cheryl, Uncle Mel & Aunt Diane, Liz, Jenn, Jennifer & Jack, Jessi, Liesl & Ruben, Maggie, Uncle Matt & Aunt Janet, Nikki, Uncle Mike & Aunt Pat, Rob & Kristen, Shawn, and Uncle Mike & Aunt Sue

Don't forget to keep checking our blog as our training continues to see how many miles we've have hit and if you can, and are in the holiday spirit, please support our fundraising goals by clicking on the links SUPPORT AMANDA and SUPPORT COURTNEY. Or, you can make checks payable to "Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge" and mail them to us. Drop us an email for the best mailing address: Amanda and Courtney. Also, check to see if your company matches charitable donations– every dollar counts! Just think, if 78 people gave $50, it will get me to my goal. However, any size gift can definitely make a difference.

So not only am I totally motivated by my teammates and their stories, but I am motivated by the love and support of my family and friends. I am flying back to Colorado on Wednesday to spend the holiday with my family. I am very much looking forward to some r&r and high altitude training. haha! I hope that you, too, have many friends and family around you this holiday season. Happy holidays!

A Tribute to Matthew Starring

2009-12-10T09:38:00.005-05:00

I got to work yesterday and spent the first 20 minutes of my day reading a story about Matthew Starring, a 23 year old from Rhode Island who passed away in November after a hard-fought battle against leukemia.

As I sat at my desk with tears literally dripping down my face, I was touched to read about this vivacious guy who made the courageous decision to stop treatment and spend the last two weeks of his life with his friends and family, embracing life and celebrating rather than wallowing or hiding from his new reality.

Matthew was 23 when he died. He went through more in the past two and a half years than many of us ever will in our lifetime, and made a decision that took a strength and maturity that is enviable.

Dana-Farber gives life to so many of the people who cross our threshold. Unfortunately, there are still some whose cancer is too unwieldy, too aggressive, and too obstinate to yield to even the strongest of treatments and willpower. Every day our clinicians and caregivers focus on finding the best course of treatment for our patients, and our researchers tirelessly investigate newer, better therapies. At Dana-Farber, we live and breathe "bench to bedside," where researchers provide new tools for use in patients, and simultaneously clinicians observe diseases in such a way to propel further research.

At Matthew's funeral last month, his family chose to celebrate his life rather than mourn his death. I'm running to give life to patients, to give hope to families, and to give inspiration to researchers. Every step, every dollar, puts us closer to innovative therapies and making fewer hard decisions like Matthew and his family had to make.

Matthew's stories:
Battle with Cancer Comes to an End
A Colorful and Harmonious Memorial Service

Eighteen weeks to go....

2009-12-09T10:14:00.000-05:00

Yikes! That is a scary thought! But our coach, Jack Fultz, assures us that it is plenty of time to ramp up and face the marathon head on.

This week, I've been taking things a bit easy. My knee has been bothering me - nothing serious, my knee cap just tracks a little off, so there's some rubbing cartlidge. Doesn't that sound awesome? I've been doing my workouts on a Cybex Arc Trainer at the gym. Apparently, it allows my body to mimic running without putting unnecesary pressure on my knee. Did you know that when you run, each time your foot hits the ground there's 10X your body weight hitting your legs. Scary thought. I guess that's why runners are always so lean.

Training "officially" starts on Monday, so I am gearing up for 6 days per week of working out. Let's hope the snow begins to melt VERY soon or I am going to have to invest in these things called YakTrax (http://www.yaktrax.com/) Apparently they work well for traction on the ice and snow. Regardless, I am glad to have a gym membership to use this evening for my workout.

Temporary Hiatus

2009-12-07T21:08:00.002-05:00

Hi to all of you who are regular readers of our blog...

I know we've been remiss in posting lately, but it's because we've been remiss in running lately. Amanda has been fighting off an ear infection and rehabbing a sore knee, and I have been fighting a losing battle against two ear infections and feel yucky enough not to want to be outside.

But we promise to be back online in the next week, especially since the 18 week countdown and official training start a week from today.

Stay tuned...it's about to start getting exciting!

Hit Me with Your Best Shot

2009-11-24T15:10:00.001-05:00

It has been one heck of a weekend. Thursday was my first group run, meeting at Crossroads and tackling just short of 5 miles at a surprisingly comfortable pace of ~9 minute miles (Mark and Melissa – THANK YOU for pushing us to go fast). I’m not sure Bud Light had ever tasted as good as after that run.

But then things went downhill…

It turns out that Bud Light is not your friend when your weekends are jam packed with two birthday parties plus a football tailgate. I’ll round and say I had…several…over the course of Friday and Saturday. And when I tried to run the 5k around Boston College (hello hills) on Sunday morning, I left like someone had attached a weight belt to my thighs and shoulders. I finished it, at a 10 minute mile, but it was pretty brutal.

Amanda’s birthday is today, and we celebrated over the weekend by singing karaoke. As she belted out Pat Benatar’s “Hit Me with Your Best Shot” like a champ, it got me thinking.

Bud Light, early mornings, cold weather, wind / rain / snow, uncomfortable seams in running apparel, faster teammates, slower teammates, exhaustion, sore muscles…

You all can hit me with your best shot. Fire away, even. But I will prevail.

I’ll trade Bud Light for Gatorade, wind / rain / snow for the treadmill, and sore muscles for a massage. For every shot at me, there is a corresponding motivator that is bigger and better – like logging into my website to find that a two time cancer survivor has contributed to my fundraising. I thought it was the other way around – I am running to support people like her; to show her and her family that there are so many people out there who are committed to fighting cancer, to improving treatments, to one day eradicating the disease. Yet there she was, contributing to support me.

The generosity and thoughtfulness of friends, family, colleagues, and even complete strangers is indescribable. When I make the historic trek from Hopkinton on April 19^th, I will call upon every dollar, word of encouragement, and blog reader as my motivation.

Challenges? Sure, there will be many. You can hit me with your best shot – fire away. But I will beat you in the end, because come April, there is nothing that will keep me from crossing that finish line.

Why do I run? The beer.

2009-11-23T12:42:00.000-05:00

Thursday was our first official unofficial DFMC run. We met at Crossroads Bar near Mass Ave and Beacon Street, changed into our running clothes and ran a nice 5 miler around the Charles River. The weather was great, and I ran with Courtney and 2 other teammates, Melissa and Mark. The beauty of running with other people is that most are faster than me, so I was able to maintain a 9 min or so pace! Far faster than what I run on my own. Plus, it was nice to get to know some of my teammates better. The best part actually came after the run, when we got back to Crossroads, strechted a bit and order a few picthers of beer and some pizzas. Nothing like ending a great run with an ice cold beer.

Now don't get me wrong, not EVERY run is followed by a beer! But I am going to look forward to Thursday nights from now on! Soon, the 5 mile loop will turn into the 9 mile Heartbreak Hill route from the Woodland t-stop back to Crossroads. Who said Heartbreak Hill had to be difficult? Once we have a few of those runs under our belts, we'll be cruising on marathon day.

What's your favorite workout song?

2009-11-16T08:48:00.001-05:00

This weekend, the DFMC first-timers had a meet & greet and program overview meeting. There were probably about 50 runners there, and we were all split up into smaller groups. My group, Team Stronger (named after the Kayne West song, although I am on Team Taylor!), started talking about different music that kept us motivated to train. From hip hop to rap to country, there was quite a diverse range of songs that I was able to add to my playlist. In that vein, leave a comment with your favorite workout song(s) so we can add them to our running mix!

Needless to say, I left the meeting feeling motivated and excited to really ramp up my training. So during the nor'easter yesterday, my roommate Michelle and I decided to go for a quick 4 mile run. Not only was it wet outside, but halfway through our run, it decided to start pouring. Our clothes were soaked and the rain was dripping off the brims of our hats. Bottom line: I think I'm going to be able to handle running in snow better than running in rain - it was miserable!!

Posting Comments Trouble?

2009-11-12T09:23:00.002-05:00

Our favorite code guru Adam has investigated the problem and seems to have fixed it (thank you!) - let us know if you continue to have problems!

Needed: Lifestyle Change

2009-11-11T13:36:00.004-05:00

Note to the seasoned runners reading this: your first reaction is probably “duh” or “reality check.” But bear with me as I slowly make the transition from team sports player to marathoner.

It turns out that fall/winter is a tough time for a new runner to start training. Here’s a sample weekday for me:

7:00am – alarm goes off. Barely open eyes enough to hit the snooze button on not one, but two, alarms. No coherent thoughts or physical ability to get out of the bed and go running before work.
7:30am – get up and shower so that I’m not late for work.
5:30/6:00pm – on most days, work is over. If I have no plans, I can put on something bright and reflective and go for a run.

However, as it turns out, my social (and work) lives are interfering with this post-work running schedule. For instance, on Monday I had a group dinner with some of my MBA friends. Last Thursday, it was “Dads and Kids” dinner night. Wednesday, I carbo-loaded and made Clams Casino to prep for Thanksgiving with my aunts and uncles. Every other Wednesday, I give platelets after work and probably shouldn't go running after that. Yesterday, I had to work late and didn’t get home ‘til 8pm, when running in the dark seemed a bit…scary.

Clearly, all of these dinners and dark nights are interfering with my training. But I don’t belong to a gym (yet) for those workouts that would take place after dark. I have time after dinner, but can’t run on a full stomach. I could cut back on the socializing (gasp!), but I draw a lot of energy and motivation from my friends and family. Running only on the weekends just isn’t sufficient.

I know that I will have to cut back on some of these dinners and post-work events, and I will, starting now. But I’d love any other suggestions on how to work running into a busy girl’s schedule.

New Look

2009-11-04T11:59:00.002-05:00

So I hope you like the new look! We’ve revamped the layout and added some really cool widgets that track our daily and weekly mileage (Courtney’s coming soon!), as well as a countdown to the “big day” in April. I am actually curious to see exactly how many miles I will run before race day! So far, I am up to 35 miles! Phew! And bring on the followers! The more the merrier! If you can think of someone who hasn’t heard about our blog yet that you think should, please forward the link on!

After spending a fabulous weekend in San Diego visiting friends and my new God daughter (who is adorable by the way), I was hit with the realization, much like Court, that I needed to get back to running and really start training. I did a 3 mile run on Tuesday (on a treadmill...yuck!) and pushed myself to increase my speed to a pace below 10 min miles! As much as I hate the treadmill, it is a great tool to push myself further and faster than I would outside. Plus, my gym has these great personal tv’s on every machine, so I can catch up on my celebrity gossip while I’m running. It’s AWESOME seeing as I don’t have time to read my US Weekly anymore!

I’m also adding more cross training this time around, which is supposed to help my athletic ability. I take a spin class every Wednesday morning at my gym and plan to continue as my training progresses. I learned today that during a 45 minute spin class I cover about 13 miles! I will also need to do a lot of speed training in order to beat my last marathon time of 4:55. You’ll be able to find me on the track doing lots intervals and Fartleks (www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fartlek). Funny name, I know, but I hear they work wonders to improve your speed. But when it comes down to it, I have to remember that “slow and steady wins the race”!

This whole marathon training thing is an entire lifestyle change! Not only am I exercising more, I’m trying to eat better too. My bff Kim has helped me re-work my diet in order to maximize the nutrition value of my food while I am training. In addition, a group of my co-workers and I joined a companywide contest in order to “Battle the Bulge” of the holiday season. The team that comes in first place wins some really cool prizes, so here’s to maintaining through Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners!

Well that’s enough from me today. Don’t forget to check back often as April approaches to see how many miles we’ve hit, and if you can, please support our fundraising goals (click on the links on the left hand side of this page). Also, check to see if your company matches charitable donations– every dollar counts! Just think, if 100 people gave me $50, it will get me to my goal. However, any size gift can definitely make a difference.

Talk to you in a few more miles….

November 1st is the NEW new years

2009-11-02T12:52:00.000-05:00

New Years resolutions are so…mainstream. This year, I’m trying something new: November 1st is the new January 1st. You still get to celebrate the night before (albeit in costume), it’s still cold out (for the most part), but in November, no one else has made a resolution to lose 10 pounds, so the gym isn’t packed to the gills for the following few weeks.

My resolution isn’t to lose 10 pounds; in fact if I could replace 10 pounds worth of dead weight with muscle, that would be awesome. My November 1st resolution is to officially start my marathon training. I started by running the Charlestown loop (2.8 miles), and it felt pretty good considering that I haven’t run since September 13th. I had a 10:40 pace which is slower than I’d like, but there’s 5.5 months to get that time up.

Here’s what’s ahead for the “new” year:
*buy new sneakers (sorry NB, loved working for you but turns out I’m an Asics kind of gal – but you can be sure I’ll be hitting up the factory store for some gear soon)
*join a gym (groan)
*exercise, in some variety, 5-6 days/week (2-3 of running, 2-3 at the gym, at least to start)
*build up miles and stamina so that I’m ready to begin team training in mid-December
*make sure all of my friends memorize our blog site so that they can check it frequently and share it with their friends
*come up with some very creative fundraising ideas, so that crossing the finish line is the 2nd accomplishment – raising funds for the Claudia Adams Barr program at DFCI being the first
*group runs – Amanda and I met some of our teammates at our kick-off meeting last week, and we can’t wait to hit the pavement with them!

I am officially off and running…

Thank you Dana-Farber

2009-10-02T18:36:00.001-04:00

Let the games begin!

It's Official....

2009-10-02T11:20:00.001-04:00

....we're in!!

I checked my blackberry this morning as I was waking up, and this was the first email I saw:

2010 Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge - you're on the team!

Boston here we come!!

The video makes it to prime time

2009-09-22T22:29:00.000-04:00

In a feat of modern technology, Amanda and I filmed our video AND managed to post it to the blog. Let me tell you, we are whizzes when it comes to the magic of the interweb.

Now, everyone can watch and see how excited we are to run Boston for DFCI in 2010. And by everyone, I mean me, Amanda, and the DFCI running programs staff, because we're the only ones who know the blog exists...so far. We're itching to spread the word about the blog, but are waiting to first hear if we make the team.

Please consider this just one more way we're showing our enthusiasm and motivation for joining the 2010 DFMC Team. Pick us!

It's a Beautiful Day

2009-09-21T09:42:00.000-04:00

Courtney and I went down to Gillette Stadium last night see U2 in concert. Not only was it a GREAT show, but as we were walking in, we noticed the Dana-Farber Field House!

DFMC selection team, we hope you liked our video :)

The Big Day

2009-09-13T20:58:00.000-04:00

It happened on Friday: I submitted my application. I thought after getting into B school that I would never have to fill out another essay application again, but I was wrong. I was so nervous! What to write...how long to make it...how much detail... at some point, you just need to call it done, hit send, and cross the fingers, which is what I did Friday night.

But since Amanda and I are applying as a team, we want to give our applications a little extra something. DFCI, we have something special for you. Stay tuned...

Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk

2009-09-13T20:55:00.000-04:00

Today, we were excited to walk 13.1 miles of Boston Marathon Jimmy Fund Walk from Babson to Boston. What a great day to share with friends and family.

Can't wait to experience the other 13.1!

(Amanda and Courtney)

(The Lemoine's and Amanda)

And we're off!

2009-09-09T09:35:00.000-04:00

Next stop: application process for DFMC team