Dan's Journey to the Finish

Here I go again

2010-07-27T11:03:00.004-05:00

So, I logged in today to my blog...I didn't realize it has been since Novmeber 2008 that I last posted. This used to be the titled section...

This is my journey. My journey which started over a year ago to commit to a healthy lifestyle, has brought me here...I am now on a journey to complete a marathon! I will complete the Honolulu Marathon and by joining the AIDS Marathon Training Program I will help bring awareness too, and raise funds for AIDS Foundation Chicago. Please join me, and support me on my journey.

So much has changed since then. First, I completed the Honolulu Marathon in 2008! Then I began working for the National AIDS Marathon Training Program in January of 2009. I went on to complete the Illinois Marathon in May 2009. That summer I worked with some amazing people and took them on the journey to complete the Rock n Roll Chicago Half Marathon, The Maui Marathon, and 2009 Chicago Marathon. In October of 2009, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago took over the training program renaming it TEAM TO END AIDS (T2) and hired me on to continue my work. We launched the program in January of 2010. I picked up my training through the winter to complete the 2010 Virgin London Marathon and four weeks later completed the Rock n Roll San Diego Marathon where I set a new personal record!!!

And now here...I continue my journey. I will try to keep this updated more frequently so look for more posts to come.

Sponsor me today and support the AIDS Foundation of Chicago by clicking HERE

Prop 8

2008-12-03T12:58:00.001-06:00

See more Jack Black videos at Funny or Die

Six Months Ago...

2008-11-21T15:38:00.003-06:00

On June 14th it was about 80 degrees or so. I woke up at early in the morning, and gathered with a group of people at the corner of Simmonds and Lawrence and headed out for a three mile run. This would put me into a pace group with a few people. Each Saturday morning we have woke up at the crack of dawn and have run. Each weekend running a little further. During the week we have run our maintenance runs and cross-training. We have each raised at least $3,700 for the AIDS Foundation. We have gotten to know each other and have even hung out a few times. Tonight I am meeting up with Julia and Holly from my pace group, along with a few other friends, for an early dinner at Sapori. After taking in some carbs we will go to bed early tonight and meet up back at that corner, this time at 7AM, on Saturday morning. This will be our last "long run" before we head out to Hawaii to complete the Honolulu Marathon in December.

Tomorrow morning's forecast...clear and 20degrees. Holy crap it's going to be cold! Guess I will have dress warm. At least the cold will push me to keep running to stay warm and get it over with.

I am looking forward to it and looking forward to hitting this goal. So, if you haven't sponsored me yet by donating, please click here. I am running to raise money for the AIDS Marathon and there is still time to make a donation.

Yes We Can!

2008-11-05T16:03:00.005-06:00

Wow! I am not sure what to say about what has happened...I have been going through so many ranges of emotion and so many thoughts.

I have always been proud to be an American, regardless of some decisions that I may or may not have agreed. Last night I was the most proud of our great nation! No matter how one voted; so many people stood up and were counted. We are so fortunate that so many others in this world don't have that luxury.

"to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of our world – our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand. To those who would tear this world down – we will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security – we support you. And to all those who have wondered if America’s beacon still burns as bright – tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from our the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope.
For that is the true genius of America – that America can change. Our union can be perfected. And what we have already achieved gives us hope for what we can and must achieve tomorrow."

Last night I spent the evening with a few friends at Crew for their Election Night Party, I was too late in trying to get a ticket to the rally. It was an experience that I will never forget. The bar was packed with people transfixed to the televisions and the bar erupted into cheers every time they announced another state's projections for Obama. As soon as the polls closed on the west coast and it was announced that Barrack Obama would be the next President of the United States the entire place went nuts! People were cheering, hugging, applauding and a few were moved to tears. I remember texting with my 11year old nephew and talking to him on the phone...I told him, "remember this moment in history, this is your future".

This video is from the Barrack Obama website and when I watched it...well just watch it and hopefully you will get what I feel...

Listening to Barrack's acceptance speech last night made me feel like I was part of something huge and for the first time I feel like we have a President that will make changes for the better of unite us all for a better, inclusive and equal America...

"It’s the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled – Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been a collection of Red States and Blue States: we are, and always will be, the United States of America."

Finally, I will close this post with the closing of Barrack Obama's speech;

"This is our chance to answer that call. This is our moment. This is our time – to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth – that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we can’t, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people:
Yes We Can."

I did it...Did you?

2008-11-04T14:31:00.003-06:00

Need I say more? Today is the day for us all to stand up and be counted...Vote for change! No matter what side of the line you are on...Get out and VOTE!!! Then join me and a few friends at Crew for a little election night party.

Sponsor me as I run my first marathon and raise money for the AIDS Foundation.

Election-eve

2008-11-03T18:42:00.004-06:00

On this eve of the most important election of our time I thought I would share with you a few things I found while surfing the web today;

This last photo is by Paul Richmond via Blog@Newsarama - where you can buy the poster and t-shirt!

After you visit his site and after you vote tomorrow; Don't forget to come back here and sponsor me for the AIDS Marathon.

Hump Day Video

2008-10-29T13:56:00.002-05:00

I just got home from the gym after a good workout with my trainer and I stumbled across this video...I thought I would share it as a mid-week energy boost...Enjoy and don't forget to sponsor me for the AIDS Marathon Honolulu.

Was that Dorothy?

2008-10-27T18:44:00.005-05:00

So, last night I ventured out to get in a good 12 miles. What was I thinking? Well, it would have been helpful to pay attention to the weather report...Wind advisory? Who cares...well let me tell you, I should have. Last night here in Chicago we had wind gusts up to 45+ mph!!! If you like dodging tree branches, and sand from the beech pelting at your face; may I recommend running in a wind storm. I swear I saw Dorothy and Toto fly by a couple of times...It was a good time, who doesn't enjoy running head on into the wind and not moving forward?

The Honolulu Marathon is less than two months away! If you haven't sponsored me for the AIDS Marathon yet please do so now. I am only $198.00 from my goal of $4,000! Please visit my donation page and sponsor me now. Thanks!

Go Cubs Go!

2008-10-01T16:35:00.003-05:00

Here we go Cubbies!
With the first game of the playoffs tonight; I thought I would post a few pictures of yesterday's Cubs rally at the Daley Center in Downtown Chicago. Oh and the need to watch tonight's game in Wrigleyville which starts at 5:30CST is the reason I will not be running tonight.

Even the Picasso at Daley Center showed it's Cubbie Blue with Cubs hat.

Go Cubs! Here is a thought, click that link to the left and donate a dollar for every run the Cubs score! What a way to sponsor me!

Pictures!

2008-09-29T14:48:00.010-05:00

Wow it has been some time since my last posting! Sorry about that, it has been a crazy past few weeks. I have a lot to talk about, and not a lot of time today, but wanted to get something up so I am going to share with you some photos...most of these were taken by Coach Bill's wife Kathy and this will be the first picture...

This is Coach Bill and his wife Kathy with John who is our team rep. from the National AIDS Marathon Training Program. They are a great couple of people, they make us laugh, and support us each and every weekend...Thank you!!!

This is my pace group, well part of it, getting ready and then starting one of our runs....

Melissa, Julia, Holly, Levi, Janelle, me, and Omar...

Julia

Melissa and I after 16 miles!

Two people, Omar and Bernie left our group due to injury...and look two new people joined, Noel and Brian.
I think this was taken right after I realized we would be running 14 miles that morning!!!

If I only knew there was a camera in sight...this would have never been taken...

So, I am going to get back to my work now, lunch break over! But not without my update on fundraising. I am now at $3,647.40 which is only $52.60 from the minimum fundraising goal of $3,700. However it is $352.60 from my personal goal of $4,000. Thank you to everyone who has supported me this far. If you have not, but would like to sponsor me it is not too late...Please visit my donation page and show your support now and help make the lives of those living with HIV/AIDS better. Donate here.

TGIF!

2008-09-05T17:08:00.002-05:00

What a week it has been, TGIF!

After getting over my cold from last weekend and getting back to the gym and into my training, I am faced with my longest run so far. Tomorrow morning I will venture out to complete 16 miles! I am really excited about this and am looking forward to a good run.

Tonight, I am meeting up with a group of friends for dinner at Calos Ristorante to get in a nice dinner of good carbs to help get me through tomorrow's run.

Being that it is Friday afternoon I am going to make this post short, but leave you with this video from an episode of Friends.

This is how I feel sometimes when I am running.

If you haven't done so, please sponsor me by clicking on my donation page. Today I am at $3,227.40 with only $472.60 left to raise to him my minimum fundraising goal. I would love it if I could raise more, so please take a moment and sponsor me.

Have a great weekend!

The best laid plans....

2008-09-02T23:38:00.003-05:00

Building up to this past weekend, I had plans and intentions to take part in my 7 mile training run on Saturday morning and the Nike+ 10k Human Race on Sunday night followed by a concert by Fall Out Boy.

Well somewhere after going to Ravinia on Thursday night I caught one hell of a cold. Friday after coming home from work, I completely crashed on my sofa and didn't, couldn't, move until sometime about Sunday evening.

Believe me I tried to muster up the strength and even at times tried to convince myself I could make it downtown and to the Human Race. I even picked up the course map, studied it, and thought..."hmm, if I make it to at least mile 2 there is an aid station and I could fall out there if need". What? What is wrong with me? Well, my thoughts turned to how not too pretty I would should I attempt such a fate.

I am glad that I listened to my body and stayed glued to my sofa. While not 100% I am feeling much better. You know I am not feeling well when I miss a training run, AND, cancel my personal training appointment. Which note to self; If you cancel a personal training session, keep in mind that you just may run into your trainer on the 146 express bus on your way home from work...good thing I still sound like I am sick and, well, must still look like it as he said "ya, you should take some time".

So, now that I am sitting upright again, and I can actually breath, I am looking forward to getting to the gym tomorrow and sweating the rest of this out of me...gross I know, but it works! Also looking forward to getting my but back to seriously working out and training. Hit it!

Please keep in mind my goal and why I am training; I am running with the AIDS Marathon Training Program to run the 2008 Honolulu Marathon and to raise money for the AIDS Foundation. Please visit my donation page and sponsor me.

This Week

2008-08-21T18:07:00.002-05:00

Hello! So this week I have experienced my first "injury" due to running. I say "injury" in quotes because it wasn't a full on injury just little soreness in my lower leg just between my calf muscle. After last weekends long run I don't think I stretched properly. Monday night I went out for my maintenance run and it started hurting then. Tuesday I made a call to Novacare, one of the AIDS Marathon Sponsors, and spoke to an athletic trainer/therapist who basically politely scolded me for not stretching properly and gave me some stretching tips. After taking Tuesday and Wednesday as rest days I am off to run in yet another Thursday night 5k, the Athens Sister City Shuffle, followed by some Greek dining and a drink or two. So, tomorrow I promise to have my results and more details as I just realized I have about 20 minutes to get to the race.

Don't forget why I am running and please sponsor me. Thanks to those who already have.

Overheard at Nordstrom

2008-08-19T15:10:00.004-05:00

I just had to share this...

Ok, put aside that I had to go to Nordstrom after going to the gym to buy new underwear as I had forgotten a clean change for post gym….
As I am going down the escalator, behind me I hear “well Cherl, due to the Derrick situation, you are entitled to go out and get yourself laid”

I don't know who Derrick is, nor do I know what his situation is. But, thank you Derrick for entitling Cherl to go out and get herself laid!

-Happy Tuesday, go get yourself laid! but not before you sign up to sponsor me. I only have about $1,200 to go and could use your help.

Today is...

2008-08-13T17:38:00.002-05:00

MY BIRTHDAY! And while I am heading out the door to meet friends for dinner at Big Jones, followed by cocktails at Marty's Martini Bar...I leave you with this email I just received as part of the AIDS Marathon weekly e-newsletter...I hope you enjoy it as much as I did, it really makes me feel good about running 4-hours in a marathon and describes how I feel about another birthday...hehe;

"EVERYBODY POOPS
If you have a small child or a pet, you surely know this. But maybe you didn't know how common "runner's trots" are. As running is an up and down motion that jars the body and your digestive system, it is not that uncommon for runners, even the elite, to experience bouts of diarrhea during a training run or the race itself - or the sudden and terrible urge to sprint towards the bathroom. Now, maybe you're saying, "It won't happen to me." Hmmm, that's what they all say. Well, I've seen it and almost experienced it first- hand. If it happens to you, don't feel bad, it's a running badge of honor (like blisters, black toenails, and bloody nipples). But just the same, chances are you'll want to avoid it. So here ya go:
Runner's trots can be caused by too much caffeine, alcohol or fiber in the days or hours leading up to a run - so avoid these things. You also want your dinner the evening before to be early and light.
If you're lactose intolerant, dairy may be the culprit.
And here's one that may seem obvious: try to allow plenty of time before a run to go to the bathroom. Wake up early for breakfast and give yourself a chance to "go."
Carry toilet paper or tissues in your pack, its okay to run into the bushes or behind a tree when nature REALLY calls! You can get Charmin' To Go at drug stores in the travel section (It's a mini-roll that you can carry easily).
If you do experience a bout with runner's trots while on the trail, it may be necessary to stop your run for that day. Although minor cases of diarrhea (usually just from nerves for that days run) are not enough to end your run, if you are experiencing severe stomach problems you should not continue on your run as it could lead to dehydration. "

It's about time!

2008-08-11T17:41:00.002-05:00

Wow, I didn't realize that I had not posted since July 23. Where has the time gone? Well it has been one crazy summer and one that I will never forget!

I am about to head out of work to a dinner so I just wanted to do a quick post and update everyone on where I am.

This past Thursday I ran in the Elvis is Alive 5k...see picture...It was a great time, then again any race which ends with a beer tent and an Elvis impersonator with back up band had got to be a good time! I finished in about 26minutes.

Since my last post I have had two long runs with my training group. a 10miler and this past Saturday we ran 12miles! More to come about these in another post.

Well, I just wanted to drop a line to everyone and let you know I am still here and still hard at work with my training and my fund raising. I am now at $2,300 and if you haven't yet please show your support by visiting my donation page.

Challenge!

2008-07-23T17:15:00.005-05:00

I just received an email from the AIDS Marathon staff which announced that the top 10 runners who raise the most funds, will be entered into a drawing to receive two round-trip airline tickets to Hawaii from American Airlines! So, here's the deal, should I be that lucky recipient, I will give the tickets to my top donor.

This is where I currently stand:

Total raised: $2,102.40

Goal: $3,700.00

Needed: $1,597.60

In order to even qualify for this I/we will need to exceed the $3,700. Together we can do this!

Where does the money go? AIDS Foundation Chicago which provides support and services to those living with HIV/AIDS. Through AIDS Foundation Chicago here are some agencies who are currently benefiting; Austin Health Center's AIDS awareness and prevention education peer advocate program targeting African-American youth. Interfaith House's HIV/AIDS Services and Education Project, which provides short-term housing and care as well as supportive services and education for individuals living with HIV. Research & Education Foundation of Michael Reese's Medication Adherence Project of the HIV Care Program, which provides adherence education and counseling services.

Please remember why I am running and become a sponsor by visiting my donation page. In addition to one time donations, you can opt for a monthly donation. Every bit helps the AIDS Foundation continue to do their work.

It is Wednesday night, and that can only mean one thing! I am heading out of work and home to put in my 40minute maintenance run! Wish me luck I am feeling a bit tired tonight.

Donation Link Change

2008-07-22T17:07:00.003-05:00

I just received an email from the AIDS Marathon program that due to some upgrade to their website the link to my donation page has changed. If you have tried to go to my page to donate, here is the updated link.

I just realised that the bright side of the change in my link...I have been able to produce a posting with the most links to my donation page ever!

On the subject of donations, I have to say THANK YOU again to everyone who has donated thus far. (queue Ed McMahon) "Jerry's tote board" is now....
Total raised: $2,102.40
Goal: $3,700.00
Needed: $1,597.60
Please keep the donations and sponsorship coming. And Please send this to anyone you know who may be interested in supporting me and the AIDS Foundation.

Oh, I wanted to send a message to everyone who is reading this...many people have told me they are reading my blog...please feel free to comment and such and let me know you are out there and showing your support :)

Nike+ wtf?

2008-07-19T21:01:00.002-05:00

So, this the graph from Nike+ of our 8 mile run today. Clearly something is up. We actually ran 8miles, not 7.5. I think from reading the Nike website there is some "pace setting" I need to sync with my sports band. Although, can anyone guess where I tried to pause it to use the toilet? For the most part though it is accurate with our pace. Our overall pace shows 10min something but yet during our run it was showing 9 - 9:45...I think the potty break screwed it up!

Let me go back a little here...Friday night, I was a good boy. I went and grabbed some dinner at Crew, and I only drank diet coke. What is more shocking is that I was home and tucked into bed by 10:00. I got an actual 8 hours of sleep! Now, those living in Chicago and who happened to be awake at 6am this morning will know that I awoke to thunder and rain, again. But this weekend I hadn't gone out the night before so, I got out of bed, had my peanut butter sandwich and coffee and prayed the rain would stop. I put on my running gear and it was still raining. Well, I took a deep breath and headed to the run site. Once at the run site it started pouring. WTF? went through my mind a few times...but we went to the starting line and headed out. Now the first mile of dodging trees, puddles, other runners, and trying to figure out how to run with rain in your face wasn't too pretty. But once we figured out how to maneuver and it settled in that yes, we were doing this I was surprisingly good. Well, as good as one can be in the rain with your shorts, and shirt completely soaked...I don't know why I wore anything, because if you are familiar with running shorts and shirts, once wet...they hide nothing! I think with the amount of water that was in my clothing, I was running with a good extra 20lbs added to me. But with all that water, I think it was easier to stay hydrated. My body wasn't sweating like a pig to stay cool as the rain was taking care of that. I was actually amazed at how many people and other running groups were out there training. What is with us? Other than we are running for a good cause. So I am babbling now, perhaps I shouldn't blog at night....Oh, we got our 8 miles in at 1hour 18 minutes...perfect timing for our pace group!

Please remember that I am running; to raise money for the AIDS Foundation, visit my donation page and help sponsor me and help get me across the finish line.

What I Found Tooling Around the Net Today...

2008-07-19T19:05:00.006-05:00

So I was just tooling around online, as one does, and I just came across this video. I thought it was a good song, and then I read the video description and it said he wrote this about a friend who was dying of AIDS who had passed away before he completed it. Then I listened to it again and payed more attention to the lyrics. It is when finding things such as this, that it reminds me what I am doing, why I am doing it, and how many people are touched by AIDS. The artist is Cort Clark. I came across him after visiting the website of The Todd and Pony Show, a podcast I love to listen too.

Please remember that I am running; to raise money for the AIDS Foundation, visit my donation page and help sponsor me and help get me across the finish line.

I am sure I will be back later with another post tonight about this mornings run...Lots to talk about...

My Morning...

2008-07-17T11:50:00.005-05:00

OK, I know that last night when I left my last post I said I was heading home to get a run in. Well, after signing off my temptress of a sister, Linda, talked me into going to Shaw's Crab House for dinner. Now who can turn down a nice yummy dinner like that? Not me apparently. Better yet, who then could go home and put in a run? Apparently not me. Therefore, I journeyed home from dinner, OK, in the spirit of full disclosure...I journeyed home after dinner, AND after a few drinks at the Gentry....tragic I know! So, I set my alarm for 5:45 this morning. I woke up, turned the coffee pot on, geared up and headed out for an early morning pre-work run. Yes, I am not a morning person and initially this was painful. But, surprisingly, once I got out the door it was pretty cool. It's actually nice out running along the lake early in the morning. Not quite as nice as the run looks in the picture, but then again that isn't me...just another random picture I found online...There certainly isn't the crowd that is usually out after work. So, today I ran 3.63mi in 30:55 for a pace of 8:30/mi. Impressed? me too! I need to slow down, no wonder I can't breath! (As soon as I figure out what is wrong with my uploading to Nike+ I will update the graphic.)Well, as I skipped my run yesterday and took it this morning I still have to get my cross-training in for today so it will be a double workout day. I will be heading to the gym at lunch.

Please remember that I am running; to raise money for the AIDS Foundation, visit my donation page and help sponsor me and help get me across the finish line!

Did you know???

2008-07-16T17:41:00.003-05:00

I was a bit disturbed to look at my blog today and on the right hand side, where I have a link to AIDS Portal news, I read "US ban on visitors with HIV could end soon". What? Excuse me? Am I the only one who did not realise we have this as a law? How archaic are we? Apparently this has been a law for over 20 years! OK, I get that back in 1987 people didn't know enough about the disease and freaked...but to be here in the year 2008, knowing what we know now and to still have this as a law. And what is worse to find out that HIV is the only medical condition explicitly listed under US Immigration law. It made me feel great to see that besides the US, other countries with similar bans are Saudi Arabia, Lybia, and Russia. Nice to see we are keeping such great company as our compasses.

So, what to do? Well take some action and go to the HRC website and send a message to your senator and help get this repealed. We should be embarrassed that this is an actual law in a country such as ours.

You know I have to get this plug in...the purpose of why I am blogging...I am running; to raise money for the AIDS Foundation, visit my donation page and help sponsor me and help get me across the finish line!

I am off to go get my Thursday run in...let's hope it has cooled off a bit by the lake tonight.

Nothing to do with running...but funny

2008-07-16T07:29:00.001-05:00

Send a JibJab Sendables® eCard Today!

Monday Music Video....

2008-07-14T17:29:00.003-05:00

I was just on you tube looking for a little inspiration to head home and do a little run tonight and came up with this...enjoy and remember why I am running; to raise money for the AIDS Foudation, visit my donation page :) Happy Monday!

I ran how far?

2008-07-14T11:31:00.005-05:00

I awoke Saturday morning at 5am to the clap of thunder and the sound of rain outside my bedroom window. Was I still dreaming? Nope it was storming. It was not time for panic, it was time to fall back asleep and wait for my alarm to go off...

6am, alarm goes off...no thunder, but still raining. Now what? Well it is amazing the thoughts that go through your head when faced with the prospect of getting out of your warm, dry bed to put on your running gear to run in the rain. Anyone who knows me, knows that first and foremost I am not a morning person. Top that off with the thoughts of being soaked with rain, and sweat, and my vain side comes out. So I laid there with my internal struggle, which honestly only lasted for a few minutes...when the reality of why I am doing this, the commitment that I made and the added responsibility not to let down everyone who has sponsored me came to light. I literally jumped out of bed and said out loud "lets do this". I made my coffee, had my peanut butter sandwich and some water, put on my gear and headed to our run site....it was still raining but not as hard.

At the run site I was actually surprised to see so many of the Aids Marathon team. I had thought everyone would be scared off by the rain and thunder. Once I met up with my pace group, (we have a new member Omar) and we got underway, the thoughts of the rain quickly went away and at some point so did the rain. (The picture to the left is from last week and is of Holly and myself I will have to get a picture of Holly, Omar and myself for a future posting)

We ran from our run site at Lawrence and Simmonds south to almost Fullerton and back for a total of 7 miles! At the end of our the run I felt surprisingly great! The first thing I had said was "that is the farthest I have ever run!" a few others said the same and high-fives and fist bumps were traded (how butch am I?). The thought quickly rushed over me...It only gets better from here. Each week we will be adding onto our mileage building up to the 26.2 mile marathon. Here we go...this is where it is going to get challenging and interesting..."BRING IT!"

For those who do not know; I am training for the AIDS Marathon in Honolulu on December 14th. Money raised goes directly to support the AIDS Foundation who provides support and services to those living with HIV/AIDS. Today my fundraising hit $1,950! I still have $1,750 to go to reach the minimum goal of $3,700....With your sponsorship I can hit and surpass that goal! Please visit my donation page and become a sponsor today. Thank you! Cheers!

What the Bleep!

2008-07-11T14:56:00.005-05:00

I will start with the good...

I finished yesterday's 5k in 26min 18 sec for a pace of 8min 29sec and I finished 162 in my division(age group 30-34) and 1,042 out of 2,672 runners. Not a personal record but still pretty good for me and I finished within the top 50%.

Now for the bad...

As you may have gathered from my earlier post last night before I headed to the race it was raining. Well according to the trusty weather men there was to be a clearing of about two and a half hours between the storms. As I was headed out the door, the skies had parted and the sun had come out. Great, this was going to be a great race and event. So the race got underway and I am truckn' along when about mile 1.5 the clouds started gathering...no worries we still had time...it was mile 2.75 when we rounded the corner of Green and Adams streets and started heading west that everyone looked at the sky and an audible "oh shit" and a visible step back came out of just about every runner. The sky looked like something out of Armageddon. I kicked it in determined to get across the line before the rain. No such luck! The rain started with luckily not much further to go. No worries, I finished, made a good time, and it was lightly raining. It was when I caught my breath that the clouds opened up and dumped a monsoon on us.

Now this is where I start to get a bit peeved. One would think that event organizers as well as attendees would pay attention to weather reports. Everyone made a mad dash to the gear check. Where one would expect to find people there handing out the gear that you had checked. No, what we found was about 5 people to hand out gear that had been checked and placed into no particular order. For 2,700 runners! WTF? So here is everyone being rained on and nobody controlling the madness. Well there was a Chicago Police Officer there yelling at everyone to get back from the tents....only to then yell at everyone to get into the tents. The workers who were supposed to handle the gear check pretty much gave up and started picking up bags and yelling out numbers...what? They were yelling out numbers when people were still out on the course. What about those of us who were standing right there with our numbers ready to go! Well then people started jumping the barricades and rifling through every one's gear until they found there's. Well with Mr. Police Officer in front of me and not wanting to get involved with the pandemonium, I was set on not getting involved. This had to get better and someone had to take control, right? Wrong! More rain came, more people came, some girls started crying. Well this is when I broke...I crawled under the table took three girls numbers, found there stuff and mine and got the heck out of there! Well to another tent on the other side that had been abandoned by the event staff. This is where I met up with my friend, and made a panicked call to my sister to grab some towels and come save me. Thankfully she lived near-by. I being the cleaver one spotted a bar Union Park and we waited for our ride while downing a Miller-lite....which I still think Chicago Events should re-pay me for as there was supposed to be a block party after the race. What poor planning went into this. Hello...weather.com come to any one's mind? Why would you not plan for this, have tents, make the event happen...pull it off!

OK, my rant is over now...I think by looking at the few pictures I have posted it should show you why I ranted. I did not look pretty or amused last night. Thank god for Wakamono and the Pear-tini for bringing me back to center.

So, why am I running? I am running and training for the AIDS Marathon in Honolulu December 14. Please show your support by sponsoring me at my donation page. All money raised goes to support AIDS Foundation Chicago.

TGIF!

(You) Show(ed) me the money!!!!

2008-07-10T17:33:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone, just a quick note before I head out to the run today...
I just logged into my donation page to see how things are going. Well I am pleased to announce that as of today I am $10.00 over the half way mark to the minimum $3,700 goal. Of course I would like to hit $4,000. It is awesome to see everyone who has been showing their support for me and for such a great cause, AIDS Foundation Chicago. Huge Thank You and Hug to everyone!!
If you have yet to donate please do so by visiting my donation page. Only $1840 more to go! We can do it! If you know of anyone who might be interested in sponsoring me please forward them my links.
I am off to run a 5k...in looking out my window it looks like it is going to be a wet and stormy one! woohoo! Bring it!
xoxo

This week....I am Fraunch (French)

2008-07-07T13:27:00.004-05:00

Thursday is Bastille Day, and I along with a few co-workers will be taking part in the Bastille Day 5k run and block party! I was told the other day that my running is getting out of control...what do you think? This run will take place of one of my two "maintenance" runs I am supposed to throughout the week.

So I was looking at my donor page today and I am currently at $1,660 with only $2,040 left to raise. In honor of the upcoming Bastille Day I say Merci beaucoup! to all those who have donated thus far. I have been truly touched by everyone who have shown their support.

Don't Drink and Run!!!

2008-07-05T14:03:00.004-05:00

So, I think the title of this post says it all! Typically the day before I am going to run distance I have had a no drinking rule. Seems logical and smart right? Well, what happens when the day before is a national holiday that is centered around barbeque's and good ol' American drinking? DRINK! of course. So, I thought I was playing it cool...I would go to Casey's for his indoor BBQ (he doesn't have a grill), limit my cocktail consumption, and set a bed time of 10pm. I should have known I was in trouble by two signs two things; 1) Casey called from the store to ask me what kind of vodka I wanted, 2) I was about to go to Casey's and if you know Casey aka Marge, then you know he can toss a few back if you know what I mean. (love you Casey) So after too many cocktails and walking over to see the fireworks which didn't start until 9:15 we went to where else? Big Chicks! This should have been the third sign I was in trouble, but hey after Casey-cocktails I threw the rules out the window. Now if you want a good time and a good cocktail, hit Big Chicks! It was about midnight when Big Chick's calls midnight and hands everyone a free shot! I did my shot and had a moment of sanity and bolted for the door and into the nearest taxi (I think I stole some one's taxi, sorry). Next thing I know I am in bed and my alarm is going off telling me it is 6:30am!!! I really had a moment where I strongly considered not going to the run this morning, I think it was the room spinning that was talking to me...So as I lay there I thought about all the people who would be at the run, and about my mission and somehow I pulled myself together to go to the run. At the run-site I found my pace "group" member Holly who admitted to having a rough night as well. Perfect! We were both hungover so it made for quit the run. Somehow we huffed, puffed, and sweat our way thru and actually finished 5 minutes ahead of our time. I have to say I don't think I have ever sweat so much! My shirt was dripping...I probably could have rung it out and made a few cocktails. So here this...I am not drinking before another long run or race! I can't imagine if we would have had to do something like 15miles in that condition.

Keep in mind why I am running. I am running as part of the AIDS Marathon. Please sponsor me by visiting my donation page

Run On...

2008-07-03T09:45:00.004-05:00

Saturday started with me frantically racing out of the house to make it to the Proud to Run. Apparently when setting ones alarm clock one should make sure the "am" light is on. Luckily I woke in time to grab a peanut butter bagel, down a Red Bull and meet my friend John on the corner and hop in a cab.

It was perfect weather for running. The course took us up the trail along Lake Michigan to Hollywood Beach, then down and around Montrose Harbor. Running around Montrose Harbor was about mile 5, which is where I completly felt like I lost my steam. More appropriatly, I felt like I was about to die. I remember thinking if I just take a few steps to the right, I will fall into the lake and I would be refresshed and finished with the race. But, then I thought about being hoisted out of the lake wouldn't be too pretty. This is where I found that running with someone makes it easier and helps push you along...there was no way I was letting him beat me :) We hit the 6mile marker, turned the corner, saw the finish-line and I began to haul ass...we finished the race in 54min 50sec. Woohoo!

I am running for, AIDS Foundation Chicago, with a fundraising goal of $4,000. Please be sure to visit my donation page and support me in my efforts.

Pride is almost here

2008-06-26T13:19:00.007-05:00

This weekend is Pride in Chicago...

Saturday I will be taking part in Proud to Run. It is a 10k along Lake Michigan. After last Saturday's 4mile run I am feeling confidant that I should finish with a good time.

Sunday is the annual pride parade and as I seem to be the only hold in my group of friends still living in "homo-heights" I will be hosting a cocktail party before, during, and after the parade. Feel free to come on by!

I have no idea who this guy is in the picture but he looks to be having a good time. I just happened upon it while searching for a picture representing Pride...I think I found it.

I am running for, AIDS Foundation Chicago, with a fundraising goal of $4,000. Please be sure to visit my donation page and support me in my efforts.

Todays Homework

2008-06-25T11:50:00.006-05:00

The training program that we are using was designed by Jeff Galloway. Friday night I made a trip to the local Borders and picked up his book Marathon, though I just realised it is cheaper on Amazon.

I have had the book for 5 days and I am still on the introduction so this will be my homework for the next several days.

I am running for, AIDS Foundation Chicago, with a fundraising goal of $4,000. Please be sure to visit my donation page and support me in my efforts.

Oops

2008-06-19T17:54:00.004-05:00

OK, it has been brought to my attention that I didn't talk about my first run last Saturday....

So, I was up at 6am, had my coffee and some how I was still running late, no surprise to anyone who knows me. So, I jumped into a taxi to head to our run site which is at Lawrence and Simonds drive along the lake. We were instructed to stand around signs which were labeled with times. We were to pick the time that we thought we would finish a 3mile run. I, trying not to be overly optimistic, stood at the 10min sign. Our coach, Bill, sent us out on our 3miles. I came in at 26:25 or just under a 9 minute mile. We were then sent to stand next to the signs with our actual time plus one minute. So I am training at about a 10 minute mile. This is where we were also supposed to meet the other memebers in our pace group and choose a pace group leader...Well my pace group consists of me and a girl named Holly, so we are sharing the pace group leader responsibilities. I was somewhat hoping we would have more people in our pace group so I could meet more people, but I am happy with the time I finished and the time I am training...

Well it is now Thursday evening and I have logged 9miles this week. I am off to the gym to get in some weight training.

I am running for, AIDS Foundation Chicago, with a fundraising goal of $4,000. Please be sure to visit my donation page and support me in my efforts.

It's really official

2008-06-18T13:29:00.008-05:00

As if investing in new running shoes, paying the registration fee, sending an e-mail blast to everyone in my address book, and running 3 miles this past weekend were not enough...I just booked my flights to Honolulu! Thanks to my sister, Linda, who donated 35,000 United Miles. With this, I will not take the $700 air stipend and all of my fundraising will go directly to AIDS Foundation Chicago. My fundraising goal is $4,000! Even more reason to show your support by visiting my donation page

Your Attention Please!!!

2008-06-16T11:18:00.001-05:00

So, Friday night after a few cocktails at the Emerald Loop, I ventured over to Fleet Feet Sports. I highly recommend anyone who has not been properly fit for a pair of running shoes to go check them out! Did you know that when you are running your feet expand! Makes sense doesn't it? But did you know by how much?!?! My normal shoe size is 9.5, my running shoe size is 11.5!!! Impressive isn't it? This explains so much! Most importantly why after running my big toes always hurt and I thought the nails were going to pop off! In addition to finding my proper measurement, they watched me run and checked out how much I pronate. They then pulled out four pairs of shoes and voila! The result...one of the best pairs of shoes I have ever had on my foot and here they are....aren't they hot? Well, as hot as a pair of running shoes can get? I am calling them my "spidey" shoes!

Please support me in my efforts by visiting MY DONATION page.

Day one is almost here

2008-06-13T11:15:00.000-05:00

Today is Friday the 13th...not sure if this is a good date to have as my start date...

Not only is this my first marathon, it is my first attempt at blogging. I appreciate any constructive criticism and comments and I hope you stick it out with me.

So, tomorrow is the first official "team" run and the first of many Saturday mornings I will drag myself out of bed and head to the cool shores of Lake Michigan and pound the pavement. I am not sure why but the excitement building up to tomorrow has my nerves flowing.

In preparation I am off to Fleet Feet Sports tonight to buy a new pair of running shoes. I will let you know how that turns out...

OK, Yes the marathon I am running is in Honolulu. Exotic location aside, I am running for a very serious cause, AIDS Foundation Chicago, with a fundraising goal of $4,000. Please be sure to visit my donation page and support me in my efforts. In addition to general donations I am working on some other fun fundraising ideas...if you have any please share them with me.

TGIF and have a great weekend!