See Sarah Ride ~ Saving Lives One Mile At A Time

Team Papa - The Unabridged Version

2011-03-17T10:33:00.000-07:00

Team Papa began as a small but mighty group of runners, cyclists & triathletes that joined Team In Training to raise funds for blood cancer research. We "endure for the cure" to celebrate the life of Bill Crawford, known as Papa to his grand-kids. Since we formed "Team Papa" in 2007 we have raised over $60,000 for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. You don't have to run, swim or cycle to be on this team. Every donor becomes a lifetime member of the elite club. Join Team Papa today with a donation, no matter how small (or large) donate here Donating is easier than spending every weekend in spandex, dining on Clif Bars and drinking Gatorade.

This year Team Papa is heading to the Pacific NorthWest to ride from Seattle to Portland July 9 & 10.

Enjoy the pictures of Team Papa through the seasons.

Melanie & Papa having lunch before The Ave 2007

At the finish line of The Avenue of the Giants 2007.

At the finish line of Nike Women's 1/2 Marathon 2007.

The Ave 2008 - Running with Lauren toward the finish line.

Solvang's Finest 2008

America's Most Beautiful Bike 2009

Hugh completing Loveland Tri, 2009 (a one man Team Papa)

Hugh, Sarah & Neil at finish line of Solvang's Finest 2009

El Tour de Tucson 2009

Neil & Marshall finishing Wildflower Olympic Distance Triathlon 2010

America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride, 2010

I wonder who will join Team Papa next? Teams forming now: http://pages.teamintraining.org/sf/stp11/teampapa

The Way I See It... # 259

2010-01-05T13:32:00.000-08:00

I'm not a big fan of Starbuck's coffee but I can get behind this one thing. Apparently they have/had a campaign where they print "The Way I See It" quotes on their cups. This one sums up my thoughts pretty well.

The Way I See It #259

“People say, Oh I could never do that! But when you meet cancer patients you understand the bravery and spirit those people show each and every day. Their struggles motivate and inspire you to test the limits of your endurance and to cross that finish line. You’ll be surprised by what you can do.

-John Kellenyi,eight time marathoner and leading fund raiser with the leukemia and lymphoma Society’s Team in Training.

When we finished El Tour de Tucson in November we agreed to take a year off. Then I learned my friends dad died of cancer, my first TNT mentor died of cancer, a few more friends were diagnosed with cancer. How could I sit on the sidelines when I can do something.

So I'm on the spring cycle team, helping participants exceed their own expectations of what they can do physically and cheering them on as they raise funds to find a cure for cancer.

Consider the challenge join a TEAM. Information meetings going on now.

OMG! What are the odds?

2009-09-17T15:53:00.001-07:00

What are the odds that 50% of ONE family can be diagnosed with cancer? A million to one... a billion to one? These guys should head to Vegas!

I'd like you to meet my team's newest honoree, Jim Pixton (left). Not only is he an honoree but he'll also be participating in a century with me. Talk about a tough guy!

Here is the story in his words:

The short version is that the Pixton family have three TNT honorees and we love being associated with Team in Training.

The longer version is as follows. It’s all true—I swear. We can confirm that sometimes truth is stranger than fiction.

My wife Jennifer and I have four kids. The youngest, Porter, is five. He was born in November 2003. In March 2004, he was diagnosed with Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia (JMML), a particularly nasty and rare type of the disease. Chemo doesn’t cure it; only a stem cell transplant has shown promise for long-term survival. Fortunately, his big sister , Eliza, now nine, is a perfect match. He hasn’t gone into treatment yet because the cancer hasn’t flared. We feel very fortunate about that.

In April 2004, I joined Team in Training to keep from going crazy and do something to contribute to the fight against blood cancers. One month later, however, I noticed a lump on my neck and went to get it checked out. In June of 2004 I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma and started chemotherapy. Although I ultimately wasn’t able to ride the High Sierra Century because I was between my fourth and fifth rounds of chemo, I still did all the training rides including the final 80-mile ride at Point Reyes. I went with my family to Mammoth to cheer the team on. I finished six rounds of chemotherapy in October and was one of the first groups of under-65 patients to use a wonder drug called Retuxin to treat high-grade lymphoma. Retuxin was developed by a research fellow using funds from the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

We thought the Pixton Family had filled its cancer quota, but in January 2008 my wife Jen went to her doctor with stomach pains. It turned out to be a tumor the size of a football on her right ovary. After an emergency hysterectomy she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and did three rounds of chemotherapy. Jen finished her last round of chemotherapy on April 1, 2008. To celebrate her one-year anniversary she signed up with Team in Training and completed the Solvang Century this year in March.

Our family has been so blessed with support and friendships from Team in Training. The Leukemia and Lymphoma’s website was the first place we turned to for answers about blood cancers. We’ve received financial support through their patient reimbursement program. We hope we can continue be honorees and ride with Team in Training for many years to come.

Keep up the great work. Go Team!

~Jim

Please help me reach my $5,000 goal with a donation to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. We can find a cure!

Reasons to Ride

2009-08-26T10:28:00.001-07:00

Why do I ride? Because I can. Because I know what it's like to watch a loved one endure chemo. Because I've heard too many stories of cancer diagnoses. Because I have lost someone to cancer. I do this because I want to save someone else from that experience. So when people ask me why.... it's to save a life.

Please read on meet my team's honorees... These people inspire me to get on the bike, climb the steep hills, share the stories of families dealing with cancer treatments and ask for your support with a tax deductible donation to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

If you know someone who has been afflicted with a blood-related cancer, I would love to ride in their honor. Please let me know their name(s), relation to you & feel free to share a short bio. These people will inspire me on each training ride and I will wear a bracelet for them on race day.

I will continue to endure until there is a cure.

My Personal Honoree - my dad.

2009-08-26T10:27:00.001-07:00

The following was written by my mom to introduce the team to my dad when we rode in his memory last season:

First and foremost, Bill Crawford was a husband, dad, and grandfather. He loved his family beyond measure and that love was returned in full. He also loved his friends and made legions on his journey through life.

In 1994 Bill began to feel weak and tired and found a lump in his groin. After a few tests it was confirmed that he had lymphoma. Although a die-hard Cal fan, he spent several months at Stanford Hospital where he underwent an autologous stem cell transplant and chemo treatments to battle Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Thanks to advances in research and medical treatments his life was extended almost 15 wonderful years. Those years included the weddings of his children, adventures with seven grandchildren and countless gatherings to celebrate and enjoy all of life’s great gifts with extended family and lifelong friends. He made the most of every moment.

In 2002 Bill again experienced fatigue, he was weak and extremely anemic, sure signs of MDS (myelodysplastic syndrome) a pre-leukemia. Bill received the occasional blood transfusion, took maintenance medications and continued living every moment, never showing any signs that cancer returned. While most patients with MDS live a few months Bill treasured another 6 years of life.

On March 19, 2008, Bill passed away from complications of pneumonia. Bill was a great fan and supporter of his children’s involvement in Team in Training. They have completed Triathlons, Marathons, and Century Rides to raise money in the fight against leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood disorders. Bill’s indomitable spirit is with us in all we do, and today we honor him again.

Honoree Myland

2009-08-26T10:26:00.000-07:00

Please meet Myland. Here's his story:

At the beginning of TNT's Summer 2006 season, my wife, Carolyn, was beginning to train for an endurance event and raising money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Her goal was to finish the race and meet her fundraising goal. My goal was to stuff fundraising letters and to watch our two young boys while she went to her various TNT trainings, fundraisers and events. In July of 2006, everything changed drastically when I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL). Now our goal was to save my life.

We received the shocking news while on our annual family vacation in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. We had to fly back to San Francisco immediately so I could begin treatment for this life-threatening disease. From July until December 2006 I was in and out of the hospital at UCSF Medical Center for a month at a time receiving chemotherapy. Although the treatments were keeping the leukemia in check, my only real chance for a cure would be to have a bone marrow transplant. Finding a suitable donor proved to be extremely difficult because of my ethnic background. We were told we had a one-in-a-million chance of ever finding a donor. Miraculously, a few days before Christmas 2006, a donor was found! I had the transplant in January 2007. It's been more than two years post-transplant and I'm feeling great!

Carolyn and I never thought we would be on the other side of the fight. However, through our involvement with TNT we never felt or will ever feel alone in our fight. Participants' commitment to TNT and the mission of LLS has given us endless hope, inspiration and strength. We can't put into words how thankful we are to those who decide to join the team and take up the challenge to find a cure. TNT participants ARE making a difference in our lives and others fighting blood cancers.

A'ohe hana nui ka alu'ia. HELE HUI! (No task is too big when done together. GO TEAM!)

Honoree Sheryl

2009-08-26T10:18:00.000-07:00

My name is Sheryl Braum and I was diagnosed in 2001 with Hodgkin lymphoma. I had a mass in my chest that was literally the size of a football. It collapsed my left lung and pushed my heart back into my chest cavity and oh yes, it gave me a blood clot as well. I went through several surgical biopsies, bone marrow biopsies, chemo and radiation and went into remission for 15 months. However, I had a cancer relapse and underwent more high dose chemo and an autologous stem cell transplant. Since then, I have had the great fortune of being in remission. I have had a few scares that have bought me some more hospital time in the ICU-but all is good and life is GREAT! I want to thank all of you for taking the time to train and raise money for blood cancer victims. The money that you are raising will help many people out there who are counting on research to save their lives. I know, because I have been one of them.
As a fellow TNTr I have had the chance to ride a couple of centuries in seasons past and have met some phenomenal people-people like you who care enough to truly give back and help out others in need. I am in awe of all of you because of your commitment to train, endure and matter (TEAM)! Please do not hesitate to ask me how I can help you with fundraising. I am only an e-mail away (+:

With much thanks,

Sheryl
Hodgkin lymphoma IIB/large, bulky mediastinal mass Stanford V chemo & rads
relapse 15 mo. later high dose chemo & autologous stem cell transplant remission since 2002 big scare 2009-but biopsy=negative
LIFE IS GREAT!

Honoree Rachel

2009-08-26T10:15:00.000-07:00

20 years and 9 months ago, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. I was 24 years old. I spent most of 1989 undergoing chemotherapy and radiation. The treatment saved my life, and changed my life forever. Although Hodgkin's Lymphoma has fairly good survival statistics, as far as cancers go, the treatment 20 years ago was not without some nasty side-effects. I've lived to experience many of them, and am encouraged and extremely grateful to all of you participating in TNT! You are raising money to help the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society support research that will find less toxic treatments and eventually find cures for blood cancers!

While I spent 6 months undergoing chemotherapy, and 1 month of daily radiation treatments, I didn't have a crystal ball to see my future - I only knew that I had to get through the day, get through the week and get through the treatment plan. Although I experienced the typical nausea, fatigue, hair loss from chemo, and "sunburn", metal-taste-mouth, and even pneumonia from the radiation, I didn't pay much attention to what these might do to me further down the road. I just continued going to my job every day, spending time with my friends and family, and trying to keep life as "normal" as possible while going through treatment. I put my blinders on and trudged through the yucky stuff. Cancer taught me that each day was a gift and time was precious!

Not long after my treatment was finished, my thyroid stopped working. My neck and chest had received a high dose of radiation, and the radiation had this side-effect, which was really no big deal because I could take medicine for it. 5 years after treatment, I had gotten married and wanted to start a family, and discovered that I could not get pregnant. Chemotherapy had knocked out my ovaries and put me into menopause before I was 30. (Eventually, I adopted my two beautiful daughters, so this turned out to be a blessing! ) 10 years after treatment I discovered white patches taking over my skin pigment. Turned out to be vitiligo, an auto-immune disease which I later learned was likely a long-term side-effect from radiation. Not life-threatening, but it sure does make for some interesting body art. 15 years after treatment, I developed a heart arrhythmia and some problems with a scary rapid heart rate, which also turned out to be a long-term side-effect from radiation. Medication and careful monitoring currently have this under control. 17 years after treatment, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, another long-term side effect from radiation. Fortunately, a mammogram caught it very early. The standard treatment for early stage breast cancer is a lumpectomy (where they remove the localized cancer and area around it) and radiation (to get any stray cells in the area). But, I was a special case! Since radiation had most likely caused my breast cancer, I couldn't (and didn't want to!) have any more. Instead I opted for a double mastectomy, even though the cancer showed up on only one breast. The other breast had been exposed too, and I didn't want to take any chances with cancer in the future. I also chose to have a relatively new type of breast reconstruction surgery, where tissue was transplanted from my legs to create new breasts. I was very determined to heal from the surgery so that I could ride my bike again.

20 years after treatment, I joined Team In Training and rode 100 miles around Lake Tahoe in America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride! I consider myself lucky to have had 20 amazing years post treatment! When I joined TNT, I wanted to challenge myself physically in a positive way and support the LLS in finding a cure for blood cancers.

Through my own cancer journey, I've made many friends who are in treatment or survivors of blood cancers. Most of us have benefited from support services and information provided by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Some have benefited from clinical trials that were funded by the LLS! But on June 7th this year, I dedicated my 100-mile ride to the family of my friend Vicki, who was diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia at age 32 while she was 36 weeks pregnant. She went through heavy-duty chemotherapy and a stem-cell transplant, while caring for her 5-year-old son and a new baby. Tragically, she lost her battle with cancer in March. Words can't describe the grief her friends and family are left with. But no doubt I felt her spirit the entire ride around Lake Tahoe, gently pushing me up the biggest hills!

So as you all train for your century ride, and raise money to help wipe out blood cancers, I just want to say THANK YOU! You are doing something AMAZING! When the training gets challenging, and you're huffing and puffing up those hills, know that you have my deepest gratitude and a big push in spirit up the hills!

TNT Cycle Team. Curing Cancer. That's How We Roll!

2009-08-18T09:41:00.000-07:00

Cycle Team Fundraiser: The above design is available in short & long sleeve tshirts $15-$20, hooded sweatshirt $30 or performance long sleeve shirts (similar to under armor material with a loose comfortable fit) $32

100% of the profits go directly to the cause. Show your cycle team pride!

The design is intended for everyone, current team members & alumni, family & friends.

You can complete an order with payment through PayPal Select "send money", to SDCrawford71@gmail.com, enter amount, select the "Personal" tab & "other" options and in the note section let me know what item(s) you have paid for. Send me an email if you prefer to order and pay by cash or check.

Pre-paid orders received by Aug 25 will be available by Sept 12. Orders received after Aug 25 will be processed as soon as possible.

Go TEAM! Keep on pedaling.

Holstein 100

2009-08-11T10:49:00.000-07:00

Long ago it seemed like a good idea to sign up for several century rides before the end of the year. Heck, I was in great shape training for Tahoe. I figured I'd get home & keep up my level of fitness. Well as some of you know I sprained my ankle the night after riding around the lake so my training went from full-tilt to zero. My level of fitness took a flying leap down a steep ravine. I've ridden my bike maybe five times in the last two months.

On Saturday I'm heading to Marin to ride the Holstein 100. I may end up doing a metric century (67mi) or I may end up cutting off at the 35mi route. We'll see what happens. Regardless it will be a beautiful ride & a great challenge.

Thanks to all who've contributed toward my fundraising goal this season. I'm almost half way there! Please consider a donation, any amount goes toward cancer research and patient care. Also, if you get me to the $5,000 mark I have no excuse but to ride the Tour de Tucson.

Help Prevent Chemo Brain

2009-08-05T15:09:00.001-07:00

An interesting article on Chemo Brain from the New York Times. ..."Nearly every chemotherapy patient experiences short-term problems with memory and concentration. But about 15 percent suffer prolonged effects of what is known medically as chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment."...

Please donate to LLS so we can find a cure and live in a world where no one else has to suffer from chemo brain

Thanks to the early donors I've reached the threshold that allows for 100% of your donations to do directly to "the cause" Every dollar donated to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in support of my training will go directly to cancer research and patient care.

Thank you for visiting. Go TEAM!

Now It's My Turn

2009-07-28T11:06:00.001-07:00

Dear friends / members of my "support group" -

I'm in my 6th season with Team in Training in support of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I couldn't have done all of this without your love, encouragement and support. THANK YOU!

This season I want to support you - the family & friends of those dealing with the reality of blood cancers. If you know someone who has been afflicted with a blood-related cancer, I would love to ride in their honor. Please let me know their name(s), relation to you & feel free to share a short bio. These people will inspire me on each training ride and I will wear a bracelet for them on race day.

Thank you for sharing your stories and supporting me in the efforts to find a cure for blood cancers. Click here to make a donation and fund cancer research and patient care.

Go TEAM!

The History of Team Papa

2009-07-14T15:36:00.000-07:00

Team Papa is my small groups of friends and family that have joined Team In Training to raise funds for blood cancer research. We ran & ride in homor & memory of my dad, known as Papa to his grand-kids. Our first event was in the spring of 2007 - the team included me and Melanie I. We raised a good chunk of change and I was bitten by the "endurance event bug". Papa was able to cheer me across the first two finish lines before he passed away in March 2008. Since then the team has grown and the fan club too. Here are pics of each season....
At the finish line of The Avenue of the Giants 2007. Raised over $7,500

At the finish line of Nike Women's 1/2 Marathon 2007. Raised $1,875

The Ave 2008 - Running with Lauren toward the finish line.

Solvang's Finest 2008, Team Papa riders raised $16,760

America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride Team Papa riders raised over $8,000

I wonder who will join Team Papa next? Teams now forming near you: http://www.teamintraining.org/

In the words of Ms. Spears

2009-07-14T12:21:00.000-07:00

Woops, I did it again! Yes, I signed up for another season with Team In Training. Yes, I'm fundraising for blood cancer research and patient care. Yes, I'm asking for your support! Please donate now, donate big, donate small, donate often.

It's Been A While

2009-07-09T09:51:00.000-07:00

After a month of ankle injury recovery I decided it was time to dig out the gear, dust off the bike and ride. It's amazing how fast the body can return to sloth! It's also amazing how quickly I felt comfortable on "The Beast".

My ankle didn't hurt to clip in & out of the pedals, phew! My muscles felt strong still, phew! However, my lungs haven't been pushed in over 30 days so that's where I got a good burn. I also haven't been eating/drinking as a rider should so about halfway through the ride my calves started to cramp up.

All in all it was a good 20ish miler with a little up and a little down. Thanks to my ride buddies who held back so I could keep up.

The cobwebs have been cleared and I am a cyclist again.

In case I haven't mentioned it before I am Community Captain for TNT's Fall Cycle Team. I'll be returning to Solvang's Finest, my first century, to see what a year of training will do.

Are you looking for a new challenge? Information Meetings are going on right now for the Fall season. Join Team In Training Ride a century, run or walk a full or half marathon, try a Tri! Change your life while saving another.

Something Else for My Mom to Worry About

2009-06-18T10:52:00.000-07:00

Calaveras Road is one of my favorite rides. A few weeks ago there was a huge pot farm bust. Read about it

So now in addition to worrying about cars, getting lost, falling / crashing, my mom can now worry about pot farmers.

Cycling is fun!

Prayers Please

2009-06-17T09:28:00.000-07:00

Late breaking news: Miracles DO happen!

Please read the message below from Nick's mom. She has some great news to share with all of you! Thank you so much for all your love, prayers, and support! We couldn't have found a match without you!

----------------------------------------

We learned yesterday afternoon that Stanford Cancer Center has found two donor matches for Nick out of the thirteen potential matches that had been developed by the national registry. Human leukocytes antigen (HLA) typing is used to match patients and donors for transplants. The immune system uses these antigens (markers) to recognize which cells belong in your body and which do not. Stanfordwas searching for aset often markers for the best match. Each of the two donor matches that were discovered, match tenout often criterion markers. Furtherevaluationneeds to occur on the two donors by Stanford before a final selection can be made. Moreover, up until the actual transplantevent,the national registry will continue to search for other possible donors that mightmake an even better match.

In any event it looks like Nick is going to get his chance at a transplant procedure which is hearteningindeed for all of us. Nick and his family are so very grateful to all those people behind the scenes at EMC, as well as the other large companies that joined in, The Asian-American Donor Program, the Be The Match Donor Program, all the media involved, and the Stanford/Kaiser medical teams that have helped bring about this hopeful development. We are equally thankful for all of the outpouring of personal support by individuals all over this land and around the globe for their good wishes, prayers, support, and for all the donor volunteers who have come forward this past month.

Five weeks ago, we received the devastating news that there was 0% chance of finding a donor. Due to all of the overwhelming support and response to our call to action, not one, but TWO 10 out of 10 matching markers have been found and secured. We have not been told who these angels are due to confidentiality reasons, but we are so grateful for them! Both donors will be prepped, as well as Nick, for a transplant, which should take place within 30 days. Nick still has a long road ahead of him, so we ask that you continue to keep him, as well as both donors, in your thoughts and prayers for a successful transplant. We ask you to continue to spread the word for the need for donors, as Stanford will continue to search for even more perfect matches, until the actual transplant day. Also, we never want any family to experience the hopelessness of not being able to find a donor match. The harsh reality is that there are thousands of people just like Nick waiting for a donor match to be found. Time is ticking away and they need your help too. Please continue to spread the word that every person ‘in good health’ should be tested and enlisted into the registry. Time is of the essence! This is Nick’s wish, and ours, that every person should have a fighting chance!

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts and God Bless!

I know it's almost two weeks since I completed this season's ride and I haven't posted a wrap-up. I will soon, I promise. However, yesterday our team received a sad update on one of our team's honorees:Nick Glasgow I think this message is more important to share.

Here is an update on Nick, written by his Grandpa.

Our high hopes for remission were shattered yesterday. A sensitive blood test taken Tuesday night showed the cancer cells are still there even after a third round of chemotherapy. Nick's spirits have plummeted to their lowest ebb; he is fast losing his hopes of recovery. For that matter, all our spirits have been jolted.
So, now, instead of the desperately needed respite that remission would have given, the Leukemia nightmare goes on for Nick and Carole. And now, also, Nick is in a much weaker condition, physically and emotionally, in which to face further days of uncertainty and treatment. Carole is confronted with the daunting task of making vital decisions about which treatment option(s) to pursue. Stanford Cancer Clinic is searching frantically for a donor match. While this option appears to be the most promising at the moment, it is fraught with possible complications with no guarantee of success.
"Cord Blood" is another treatment option Carole is considering. This option involves the use of umbilical cord blood as a potential source for the required blood cells, again only if a match can be found for Nick. Treatment is given by the "City of Hope " organization in southern California and Nick would have to be taken there in some medically protected manner two different times. We continue to hope and pray for that miracle!

What can YOU do to help? Get yourself and everyone you know registered with the National Marrow Donor Program http://www.nmdp.org or more specifically, www.marrow.org

What Goes Up Must Come Down

2009-06-04T09:51:00.000-07:00

On Sunday I'll be slowly climbing up & quickly rolling down these peaks & valleys around the lake.

Route Map

2009-06-03T11:35:00.001-07:00

On Sunday I'll be making my way along this route:

America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride (AMBBR) Century @ Lake Tahoe

Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

80 Miles of Smiles, No Tears Here

2009-05-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all these amazing women for riding with me. We ride in honor of family & friends who have suffered through blood cancers.On Saturday we had an 80 mile buddy ride that retraced the map from Fall season that pushed me to tears. Re-read the tale here I think I was still in shock when I did the write up since it sounds pretty bland. I remember the ride kicking my a$$ and pushing me to tears. It was awful then. This time it was awesome. I'm stronger & faster than I thought. I've been training more than 1x a week and it has obvious benefits.

The ride was cold at the start but warmed up for the last 30miles. The people were fantastic (see pic above) and made the day in the saddle so fun. The hills were fun, the rollers were fast.

The one bummer of the day was passing an accident on the side of the road & recognizing a few teammates from the fast group. No major injuries so all is well. Apparently a water-bottle caused a wipe-out, a car got rear-ended after stopping to avoid our rider & a 2nd cyclist bailed to the side of the road ditch to avoid the stopped cars. Road rash & shaken spirits were all that was diagnosed after x-rays & examinations.

Be safe out there!

Annoying Yet Edible

2009-05-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

Apparently I ride with my mouth open. I can only assume it's for easier deep breathing. However when on the fast descents my open pie-hole is like a bug vacuum. Last night as I got to the last 20 feet of the descent some huge bug flew right down my throat & landed on my gag-reflex. Not fun!

At least they are full of protein, right? I prefer steak.

This weekend we have our last long ride - another 80miles. The route we have planed took me to the brink of tears last season. I hope these past few months of continued training will make it easier this time. Bring it on, Stinson Beach!

Aint No Stopping Me Now!

2009-05-06T08:36:00.000-07:00

I'm proud of myself today. Thanks to K. Sue (left) & Kieran (right) I accomplished my first non-stop climb to the Junction on Mt. Diablo!

Longtime readers might recall my first attemp. Following that ride we went back on a fairly regular basis - for a few months we went weekly. Each climb was different due to weather, health, day-light, riding companions. Never have I made it without at least one rest stop on the side of the road for air, food, water.

Yesterday something felt different and I knew from the first pedal stoke that I was going to make it all the way. Perhaps it was the semi-bike fit that adjusted my seat. Perhaps it was the perfect weather & excellent company. Perhaps it was just my time.

Confidence on the bike & experience on descents made the trip down the mountain fast & furious. My first ride down many months ago I hit top speeds of 12mph. Last night I cruised along in the 30s! I feel the need for speed.

Another Beautiful Day in The Neighborhood

2009-04-20T13:24:00.001-07:00

View Larger Map
55 miles. 80ish degrees. 8 hours.

One of the most beautiful days, most beautiful rides I've been on.

Last year on this ride my chain broke so I got SAG'ed out at mile 25. This time I was able to ride the rollers and climb all the hills with strength and ease. As I waited for my riding buddy I got quite a few pictures of the course & my teammates. I can finally enjoy the ups & downs (although I think my breaks need some work soon).

60 Miles - 78 Degrees - Mostly Sunny

2009-04-17T09:16:00.001-07:00

Saturday's ride begins at Stafford Lake Park in Novato. My groups roll time is 7:30AM. This means no sleeping in this weekend - I gotta be up about 5:30 to eat, pack-up and drive to the meeting spot.

The weatherman calls for sunshine & perfect temperatures.

This will be a great day. Following our ride we'll have a pot-luck lunch with our whole team. A chance to remind us of why we ride - for our TEAM honorees

Ugh!

2009-04-16T10:15:00.001-07:00

Some rides are harder than others.
EASY: 50-60 miles

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On Saturday we had a great ride from Kentfield to Fairfax to Pt Reyes to Inverness to Nicasio then back home. The hills seemed easier, the legs felt stronger, the mind was clearer. A fantastic 55 miles in beautiful sunshine.

HARD: 20 miles

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Last night my weekly routine up Tunnel Rd almost killed me. My legs were useless up the hills, the gear shifting never gave a break. We rode slowly and added a few miles to this weeks route. Above is the terrain version of the map so you can get a sense of the up & down.

It was good to get out & push through it but I didn't feel good doing it. Thankfully there is the reward of the sweeping views at the top.

Weekly Workout

2009-04-09T09:59:00.001-07:00

In addition to the coached & buddy rides each weekend I've been doing this:
View Larger Map
Every week we climb up Tunnel Road and along Skyline. We get some amazing views. It's a good burn. I'm getting stronger & faster, but as I was telling my co-riders last night it doesn't feel any easier. However it is definitely more fun.

Family Fun

2009-03-30T11:29:00.001-07:00

Two riders on Team Papa, Tahoe 2009. My brother Hugh was in town last year for one of my marathon team runs. He got bit by the TNT bug... it took a year for me to convince him to participate rather than donate.

Welcome to the 100 mile club, big brother!

Because I Can

2009-03-25T14:20:00.000-07:00

Why do I....?

I do this because I don't want another person to watch a loved one go through treatment. I don't want another person to watch a loved one die. I will run / cycle / endure until there is a cure.

"What makes a great endurance athlete is the ability to absorb potenial embarrassment, and to suffer without complaint. I was discovering that if it was a matter of gritting my teeth, not caring how it looked, and outlasting everybody else, I won. It didn't seem to matter what sport it was--in a straight-ahead, long-distant race, I could beat anybody. If it was a suffer-fest, I was good at it."
~ Lance Armstrong

I'm part of the TEAM working for a cure of blood cancers. Support any of the following people with a donation to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Hugh Crawford
Becky Blessing
Dave Christy
Cassandra Ventura
Megan Votaw

First & Foremost

2009-03-19T10:23:00.000-07:00

One year ago today my dad lost the long battle with lymphoma. This weekend my cycle team will ride in honor/memory of him. My local family will wear their "Team Papa" t-shirts and support the riders with food and drink on the route. Below is the blurb my mom put together as an introduction for the team.
Bill Crawford was a husband, dad, and grandfather. He loved his family beyond measure and that love was returned in full. He also loved his friends and made legions on his journey through life.

In 1994 Bill began to feel weak and tired and found a lump in his groin. After a few tests it was confirmed that he had lymphoma. Although a die-hard Cal fan, he spent several months at Stanford Hospital where he underwent an autologous stem cell transplant and chemo treatments to battle Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Thanks to advances in research and medical treatments his life was extended almost 15 wonderful years.

Those years included the weddings of his children, adventures with seven grandchildren and countless gatherings to celebrate and enjoy all of life’s great gifts with extended family and lifelong friends. He made the most of every moment.

In 2002 Bill again experienced fatigue, he was weak and extremely anemic, sure signs of MDS (myelodysplastic syndrome) a pre-leukemia. Bill received the occasional blood transfusion, took maintenance medications and continued living every moment, never showing any signs that cancer returned. While most patients with MDS live a few months Bill fought for another 6 years of life.

On March 19, 2008 Bill passed away from complications of pneumonia.

Bill was a great fan and supporter of his children’s involvement in Team in Training. They have completed Triathlons, Marathons, and Century Rides to raise money in the fight against leukemia, lymphoma, and other blood disorders. Bill’s indomitable spirit is with us in all we do, and today we honor him again.

If you are looking for a way to make a difference in the life of a patient or their family as they take on the fight for their life please make a donation to LLS. My brother Hugh is training for America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride too. Click here to:Support his cause!

Big Team - Little Team

2009-02-24T09:24:00.000-08:00

There are over 100 people signed up on our team to participate in America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride on Sunday June 7. This picture is of the attendees for this past Saturday's 25mi ride. We are a big group & this is just about half of us.

To make the rides more manageable the coaches break the team into eight ride groups based on our skills & speed. I am assigned to group 8 as ride support. Last season I was in the 2nd to last group - always pushing myself to improve. Hoping to build my speed, stamina and riding skills. This season I will learn a new discipline - tp ride slowly & confidently.

It was great to see my ride group gain confidence over just one ride. I look forward to watching them improve each week. I already feel a sense of pride knowing that they will make it to the finish line.

I'm Back & Ready To Ride

2009-02-19T09:09:00.001-08:00

Sorry for the break in blogging. I spent the last week in New Orleans helping with the continued rebuilding efforts post-Katrina. It's amazing how much work is still needed down there. If you get a chance to go help out please do not hesitate. They need skilled carpenters, plumbers, roofers, etc. Luckily the home we worked on was in need of painting - a skill I have.

I missed the bike & it feels like forever since I got to ride. I look forward to the team ride on Saturday. We have been split up into our pace groups for the season. I will be ride support for Coach Carol with team 1... or 8... depending upon where you start counting. I think we are 8. It will be fun!

Thanks for visiting.

First Ride of the Season

2009-02-09T11:52:00.001-08:00

This motley crew is but half of my mentor group. It's my job to get these awesome people through the season of training and hopefully exceed their fundraising goals. They are enthusiastic and I look forward to riding with them.

My TNT experience has also inspired by brother, Hugh. He lives in Colorado but we'll be doing this event together in June. Read more about his plans: Hugh's TNT Training Blog Donation to his $5,000 GOAL

Getting Ready To Roll

2009-01-22T08:59:00.001-08:00

On Jan 31 we kick off the spring season with Team in Training to prepare for America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride.

The 100ish mile bike ride around Lake Tahoe will take place on June 7. TNT groups from across the country participate in this event so don't let your living outside of CA stop you.

Dare to take on the challenge? Sign up now!

You can never have too much spandex in your wardrobe.

Brrrr

2008-12-22T09:57:00.001-08:00

Sunday morning we planned to do a 40mi ride beginning in Pleasant Hill to Danville, up the back side of Mt Diablo to the Junction and back. The forecast was cold and rain so my coach changed the route so we wouldn't be decending the wet, steep mountain roads.

The alternative route was to take us out to the city of Crockett and back. We were about 15 minutes into the warm-up when the raindrops began to fall. After an hour or so we cut the ride short - it was wet & dang cold.

The great reward of a ride like this is the hot shower & flannel jammies waiting at home.

Up Next...

2008-12-18T11:09:00.000-08:00

I'm riding around Lake Tahoe! I've been selected to mentor the spring season as they train for America's Most Beautiful Ride.

The season kicks off on Jan 31 and on June 7 we'll circumnavigate the highways clockwise around Lake Tahoe in both Nevada and California. It includes a challenging 800 foot climb to a rest stop overlooking Emerald Bay and a 1,000 foot climb to Spooner Junction. There are also many short rolling ascents and descents totaling over 2,600 vertical feet of elevation gain! The altitude ranges between 6,300 feet and 7,100 feet above sea level and the ride is recommended for conditioned recreational bicyclist, not for beginners. Team in Training participants get an added out and back on Highway 89/ Bike Trail to visit historic Truckee, California, before continuing around Lake Tahoe.

Are you interested in joining the TEAM? Click here: to find an information meeting near you

The Route

2008-11-18T18:58:00.001-08:00

Click here to see the map of the route. You can see the terrain, satelite view, elevations, streets etc.

We covered a lot of ground.

We Did It!

2008-11-18T09:30:00.001-08:00

Team Papa! Together we raised over $15,000 for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: Good job, girls. It was a joy to train and ride with you.

Before:

Self portrait at mile 20ish:

The long climb, at the heat of the day, about mile 60:

After:

THANK YOU for your support. I couldn't have done this without you!

The End Is Near

2008-11-10T11:03:00.000-08:00

We had our last official team ride on Saturday. 50 miles. Easy.

Tomorrow we have our un-official biker chicks ride of 30 miles. Easy.

Thursday we begin the trip south. Friday we have carbo-loading pasta party.

Saturday I complete 100 miles. Easy?

I'm $1,000 away from my fundraising goal. That's just $10/mile on event day. Can you help? Donations still accepted!

80 Miles

2008-11-02T20:28:00.000-08:00

Ow.

Goodnight!

Details of the ride from my coach's cycle computer: 80 miles; 4,162 feet of climbing; and 4493 calories burned (she said since I rode longer I burned more than that).

View Larger Map
I woke up hungry and still a little sleepy. I'm at work and trying to kick my brain into gear. Wish me luck.

The view for 99% of the day:
A beautiful day:
My thoughts at mile 69 when Merla wouldn't give me a ride:

A First Time for Everything

2008-10-29T10:21:00.001-07:00

Last night we did our weekly climb up Mt. Diablo and I encountered three firsts.
1) Flat tire
2) Fall - I unclipped right foot, bike leaned left. Wheeee - here I go! Just a scraped elbow & knee. I'm fine.
3) Bite marks on right knee/thigh - how does The Beast jump so high? I guess she was mad about the crash.

The ride was great. Saturday we have 80 miles in Marin.

Cycling Makes Everything Better

2008-10-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

Saturday began as a horrible awful no-good day. I woke up at 5AM (too early) but finally fell back asleep about 6.30 (I need the sleep before the 70 mi ride. I woke up again, tired and hoping for some more sleep but when I looked at the clock it was 8AM. Yikes! I have to be on the bike and ready to roll in one hour.

I scramble through my morning routine, skip the usual pre-ride breakfast - no time! Run out the door and back inside a few times to grab forgotten water bottles, gloves, helmet. I'm late, I'm late for a very important date!

One sacrafice I can't make pre-ride is the Peet's coffee stop. Ugh! Ethiopian is the drip of choice today. I HATE ETHIOPIAN (coffee, not the people or the food) So I order a latte and pastry for breakfast. UGH! Latte is too hot to drink and it never cools during the drive. I arrive at Orinda BART and still have no caffine in my system. This ride is going to be hard.

I see Jen H getting out of her car so I pull in the spot next to her, make a face and miss the stop before hitting the parking bumper - SCRAPE!!!!! A very subtle entry.

Coach K.Sue gathers us all together with great news: the ride will only be 56 miles but there will be about 2800 ft of climbing. We head out into the shady winding roads of Orinda, riding in an unofficial pace line. All of a sudden everyone in front of me slows & the rider behind me screams (yes, screams) SLOWING! This throws me off, I can't stop in time, I swerve to the right to miss the bike inches in front of me, I manage to unclip enough to pad the fall, I land in a fluffy pile of fallen Oak leaves - soft? no. I'm up in 2 seconds and looking for a gap in the line to rejoin the team. Coach comes back down the line "Is there a rider down?" "oh yea, that was me... continuing the worst day ever"

I put my frustration into the pedals and ride - after about 20 miles my mind has wandered off and I'm enjoying the day. My ride group had four or five flat tires - so it turned into a long day. Seven hours on the seat is more than I wanted. But I finished strong and felt good through the whole journey. From Orinda to Danville to Pleasanton to Castro Valley to Moraga to Orinda. Phew!

One of the tiny hills of the day:
Turn baby, turn:

I know - my complaints are nothing compared to what cancer patients go through. Please help me help LLS find a cure. Donations still accepted I'm 68% to my fundraising goal.

Pardon the Interruption

2008-10-23T21:03:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a busy & difficult few weeks. I apologize for the delays.

First I traveled north for a few weddings in one weekend. I hoped to get a ride in the altitude to work my lungs. Mother Nature had other plans.

I returned home with the stomach Flu on Monday & on Friday had to put down my dog, Timm. Saturday's ride will help to clear the cobwebs!

I was ready to roll for our 70 miler. However, "the beast" as she's now been named had other plans. Here's a picture of me explaining my gear issues at SAG stop 1. The cable tension was off and the problem was either caused by or exaggerated a cracked link in my chain. So what should have been an amazing ride of rollers and beautiful scenery through some of my dad's favorite day trip destinations was cut short. I left the ride at mile 45.

The bike has been fixed and I am ready for action this weekend. A new and interesting post to come soon.

Thank you for your patience.

Calaveras Road

2008-10-08T10:07:00.000-07:00

View Larger Map
What an exciting weekend ride we had. To start things off we had the first weekend of rain, would the ride go as scheduled? No, rather than our early 8AM roll time coach pushed back the time to allow the roads to dry a bit. On our way to meet the team traffic came to a screeching halt and the highway was closed due to police action. Everyone from Oakland/Berkeley/SF/Marin was going to be stuck in this mess. We hit the road over an hour later than scheduled but had a beautiful ride from Dublin/Pleasanton BART to Calaveras Reservoir

It's great to explore so many areas of the Bay Area. Have you ever been to Sunol? What a cute little town. I want to go back & explore.

The ride included a 12 mile climb of 1,105ft and 1,032ft decent. Hills have been hard for me but Coach Marc complimented me on my cadence. It's good to know I'm improving. I'm still a bit nervous on the downhill since my hands are too small to comfortably grip my breaks. Coach Mark rode downhill with me and complimented my technique. So while I may not be the first up or down the hill at least I look good doing it!

A quick reminder of why I'm doing this:
Leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma will cause the deaths of an estimated 52,910 people in the United States this year. These blood cancers will account for nearly 9.4 percent of the deaths from cancer in 2008 based on the 565,650 total cancer-related deaths.

Every ten minutes, another child or adult is expected to die from leukemia, lymphoma or myeloma. This statistic represents nearly 145 people each day, or six people every hour.

Leukemia causes more deaths than any other cancer among children and young adults under the age of 20.

Help us find a cure for blood cancers with a donation?

I Miss You

2008-10-01T20:02:00.000-07:00

The Mark of The Beast

2008-09-28T21:43:00.000-07:00

I've re-named my bike "The Beast". How great is it that I can obtain gear makrs within 30 seconds of unloading the bike from the car. I haven't even climbed onto the saddle and she bites me.

Sunday was a great ride... read below.

Day 2... more riding

2008-09-28T21:36:00.000-07:00

Saturday I finished 42+miles so I thought it would be a great idea to join the Sunday Buddy Ride in the east county for another 30+ with climbing.

I thought it was a good idea until we hit the 1000' elevation sign on
Mt Diablo when coach Mike says "yay we are half way there". "Which half?" I ask. "The easy half" he answers. Great. Keep legs moving, it's hot, it's dry. I stop in the shade for a drink and astange man arrives dripping in sweat to report to me that his thermometers report it's anywhere between 95-102.

I climb a little more, I'm exhausted, it's hot and I dismount to walk a bit. While resting again in a tiny patch of shade Coach K Sue comes down the hill looking for me. She gives a little pep talk, I think she "lies" a little bit to get me going. Sure it's flattening out! Sure it's more shady! Sure! Thanks to her I make it to the top, on the bike, pedaling.

This picture is of me during the rest after going 30 miles, the last 6 of which were a climb of 2,200ft in 102 degree heat. I'm smiling because it's all downhill from here.

The things I'll do to help find a cure for cancer!

Forty pt 1

2008-09-27T20:11:00.000-07:00

At least the marks are getting smaller. Today we rode from Sausalito up through San Anselmo and Fairfax. We missed the turn to Nicasio and ended up in Samuel P Taylor State Park. It was a beautiful day for 40+miles. Tomorrow we ride 40 in the east bay - up Mt Diablo!

Today - By The Numbers

2008-09-25T16:42:00.000-07:00

Miles - the longest one day ride so far. I'm doing back to back 40s this weekend.

Days to go. The event is almost here!

More than half way to my fundraising goal

Ch Ch Ch Change (is accepted)

2008-09-22T20:21:00.000-07:00

Coinstar! – did you know that if you put your change in a Coinstar machine, you have the option of donating that money directly to LLS? There are over 13,000 Coinstar machines (most in supermarkets – go to www.coinstar.com to find a machine near you).

Collect your change (and anyone else’s - but you should probably ask them first). When you use the Coinstar machine, simply select the "donate" option at the beginning of the transaction and follow the on-screen prompts to select LLS as your non-profit organization of choice. Then pour in your change; the machine counts the coins, and then provides a tax-deductible receipt for the full value of the donation. Send a copy of the receipt to me and I’ll get credit toward my fundraising goal.

Easy! Plus Coinstar doesn’t charge their regular fee for nonprofit donations. http://www.coinstar.com/us/PressReleases/941379

Exhausted Just Reading This?

2008-09-22T09:31:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick breakdown of my weekend. I'll try to get some pictures up soon.

Friday Night: Carbo-load dinner, drink lots of water, fall asleep by 9pm

Saturday:
5:30 - wake up before alarm and wonder if it's worth it to fall back asleep for another 30 mins, toss & turn until alarm.
6:00 - Get out of bed. Make breakfast, 2 scrambled eggs & bowl of oatmeal. Drink water. Pack equipment.
6:30 - Load bikes into car, pick up coffee to go, drive to meet the team.
8:00 - Arrive at Pt. Reyes National Seashore. Stretch legs. Chat with friends.
8:30 - Team talk, I win a fund-raising prize (thanks to all who have given so generously), Coach Michael teaches us how to change a tire.
9:00 - We gather in our new ride packs and practice changing our own tires. I'm the first in my group to finish - It's a dirty job and not too hard. Phew & knock on wood that I don't actually have to do this on the road.
10:30 - We hit the road leaving Pt Reyes and pedaling 42+miles through Inverness, Nicassio and Olema. We learned how ride in a pace line. I learned that you can pedal slow and move uphill at the speed a sleeping sloth and make it to the top still upright & breathing.
3:30 - The finish line is in sight! Finally get off the bike, find my legs, stretch, change out of sweaty chamois, regroup with all the other ride packs.
4:00 - Wandered my way over to the Honoree Picnic to hear the stories of the honorees we are riding for this season. Two teammates riding along side me are blood cancer survivors - they are alive today because of research done by The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. We listened to their stories, ate some of the best burritos in the world and headed home.
6:30 - Arrive at home sweet home for a hot shower.
7:00 - realize we are too late to attend my friend Carey's fund-raising event.
8:00 - Pass out on the couch.
9:00 - Head to bed for a well deserved night of sleep.

Sunday
7:00 - Wake up... still tired (physically) but no longer able to keep eyes closed. Tummy is grumbling. Wonder where I should go for breakfast & 30 mile recovery ride.
8:00 - Coffee & Noah's bagel enjoyed while reading the paper. Still wondering what to do for the 30 mile recovery ride.
12Noon - Head to the gym to ride the stationary bike - 1 hour, 18 miles are all I can handle.
1:30 - Time for another fund-raiser. My former running team-mate, Belinda is training for an Iron Man. I spend the afternoon in the park playing kick-ball, drinking beers, eating hot-dogs, chatting with friends.
8:00 - Pass out on the couch, from exhaustion not from the beers.

What did you do with your weekend?

Here's the latest bike mark

Woops.

2008-09-15T21:53:00.000-07:00

Apparently it's a "rookie move" to end up with gear grease & chain marks on your legs. FYI - That stuff is hard to get off. I've take 3 showers since that shot & there is still a faint mark.

Riding in Honor of...

2008-09-15T10:01:00.000-07:00

Malana
This picture is clipped to the front of my bike so she can enjoy the scenery as I ride for her and the many living with and fighting blood cancer.

Here's her short story as we were introduced to her by her great-aunt who is one of my TEAM-mates.

She was diagnosed with leukemia just a couple of months before her second birthday. What started as bruises and bumps became a series of tests, including bone marrow, then the leukemia (ALL) diagnosis. I was very relieved to hear that ALL is the most treatable kind of leukemia. (Thanks LLS!!). Malana has been in treatment now for about 18 months. For some aspects, her reaction to the treatment has been better than expected, but she continues to have significantly elevated ANC and ALT-phosphorus levels, and her doctors have not been able to explain.

She seems to be taking all of her treatments in stride. She's even willing to show her third nipple (her port) to anyone who asks about it. She has the greatest smile and loves to hug and be hugged (but don't we all?)

Would you like to help find a cure for Malana? Click here to:Make a tax-deductible donation to LLS

A Busy & Quiet Week

2008-09-12T10:06:00.000-07:00

During the climb of Papa Bear on Saturday Coach Mark told me this ride was the "come to Jesus" moment in training. It's during this ride that participants realize that the mid-week workouts are the important part of training. Yes, I found Jesus that day. This week has been filled with workouts.

On Monday I went to the gym for some cardio (eliptical) and strength (circuit weights). It was good to get the blood flowing through the muscles after the hard weekend ride.

Tuesday night I rode 15 miles around Alameda. I practiced clipping in & out of the pedals, changing hand positions on the handle bars, pedaling one legged, fighting the winds off the bay.

Thursday night I put in 20 miles along the East Shore of the San Francisco Bay Trail. We rode from Emeryville (Davenport Mini Park) to Point Richmond (Lucrita Edwards Park)

As we finished up the ride last night I realized how lucky I am. Riding along the shore past tidal flats and marsh lands, watching herons fly, dogs playing, listening to the wind, watching the sun set over San Francisco. It was a great reminder to not take my blessings for granted. Here was the view at the end of our ride:

Fundraising news: It's been a very quiet week. Please make some noise & drop some cash in my account. Help me fund a researcher, help me fund the aid to patient families, help me find a cure. Donations of any amount help. Contribute now

Up next: Sunday will include a 35-40 mile ride called Paradise Loop

Triple Crowner & 1/2 Iron Man

2008-09-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

My friend, Phil, earned his TNT triple crown and became a 1/2 Iron Man this past weekend. Too many honorees on his shirt, including my dad (see pic below).

Help us find a cure for blood cancer, make a donation today.

Thanks Phil! You are an inspiration. Go take a rest.

Grrrr-rrrr-rrrr-rah

2008-09-08T10:11:00.001-07:00

Tell the whole damn world I finished bear territory.

To those who know local bike rides I finished the Three Bears! Don't I look happy? (that's me on the left)
This was my 3rd ride with the team. It was my first time being clipped into pedals. It was my first time climbing hills. I'm pretty darn proud of myself.

We rode 23+ miles (climbed 1060ft, decended 1096ft) in 95+ heat. I finished in just under 3 hours. My top speed (coasting downhill) was approx. 25mph. My slow speed (climbing Papa Bear) was about 2mph. I learned that I don't like going faster than 20mph on the downs.

It was hard. It was awesome. I'm exhausted but not too sore.

Fundraising update: To date I have 62 donations for a total of $3,995.55 (an average of $64 per donor) - I'm 53% of the way to my personal fundraising goal. Would you like to add to the total? Please make a donation.

Here's the map of our route:
Three Bears
Find more Bike Rides in Orinda, California

Who Knew?

2008-09-02T11:19:00.001-07:00

Upper body strength is important in cycling. I had no idea how weak I was until this past weekend's ride. We did another 20 miler but this time hills were part of the fun.

Let me confirm what I've always expected - I've got legs. My strength has always been my lower body. I can squat a lot of weight. My legs felt fine up & down all 20 miles.

My arms wanted to detach and run for the hills. At about mile 16 I wanted to pull over & rest - I could barely hold myself up to steer. It was a struggle to lift my recovery drink (ice cold beer) to my lips. I had to ask for help to take the cap off my Chap-stick, seriously.

So I need to talk to the coaches about what to do to build up my arms. I'm also switching from a mountain bike frame to a road bike in hopes that the "fit" will ease the pressure on my spindly little limbs.

Fundraising Update: I am now at 49% of my personal fundraising goal. Please help me reach the $7,500 finish line with a donation today.

What's the Difference?

2008-08-28T10:03:00.000-07:00

Pizza and beer are allowed during the training for a century! I hoped there would be something to love about this sport.

The run team coaches are wonderful people and they want the best for their athletes. So they strongly encourage a healthy diet while training. They are so good at their job that most team members are afraid to indulge in a treat that includes processed white flour or fermented fruits or grains.

The cycle team on the other hand... WOW what a difference. After our first 20 mile team ride nobody batted an eye when the table was served multiple beers and cheeseburgers. Last night we had a social at a pizza joint.

I think I can get used to this.

In fundraising news... As of this morning I'm at 40% of my $7,500 goal. Want to help? Please make a donation

He Would Have Had Fun

2008-08-25T12:48:00.000-07:00

This weekend I missed the second coached ride because I was camping at Malakoff Diggins. I'm sad to have missed a ride with the TEAM but this weekend was a great way to remember the fun I had with my dad. One of my favorite birthday parties was a weekend camping in Malakoff with him and a few of my friends. He spent a weekend in the wilderness with 10 pre-teens!

Here are a few pictures from our last trip to Malakoff together circa 2004. You'll notice my dad doesn't skimp on supplies or luxury while camping. He can pack more stuff into a station wagaon than anyone I know. Camping with him was not really "roughing it".

First Ride

2008-08-17T16:07:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture of me and Kieran following my first team ride. Actually it's my first ride in almost 15 years. Don't I look pretty happy after finishing 20 miles? Things I learned:
1) I need to eat more than 2 scrambled eggs to fuel my body for a ride of that length
2) A cheeseburger & beer is a great reward for 20 miles.
3) A certain body part hurts after sitting for 20 miles.
4) You never forget how to ride a bike.

... and now back to our regularly scheduled charity

2008-08-14T15:54:00.001-07:00

I spent the past 10 days in the hot LA sun, painting a house - no shade in sight. I wore sunscreen, I wore a hat, I protected my delicate skin. On the drive home we camped in Big Sur - it was foggy - typical of the CA coast. In one 2hour nap on the overcast beach my face ended up burned to a crisp. I even have little spots of burn on my feet, in the pattern of my Keens. Great! Anyway the work we did in LA was good and we all had a fantastic time.

Now I'm home and ready to focus on this bike riding thing. I missed the first team orientation and ride. This weekend I'm joining a 20 mile buddy ride in SF - I assume along the Great Hwy. I'm nervous and excited to begin.

You have all been great support as I begin this adventure. Lots of cheers and even more generous with the donations. THANK YOU for all the donations that arrived during my travels:
-Abernethys
-Kapplers
-Henleys
-Suttons
-Smiths
-Stephensons
-McNabbs
-Oxleys
-Vanderveen/Bawolskis
-Stephens
-Blessings
-Zadows
-Lanes
-Ortas
-McKees
-Frys
-Crawfords
-McDonalds
-Needhams
-DeGuzman
-Louch

Want your name in lights? It's easy to make a secure online donation

My Other Charitable Work

2008-08-01T11:34:00.000-07:00

Each summer, and sometimes in the winter I participate in a mission trip with the teens from my church. This year we are doing an "urban plunge" - working closer to home. I won't be posting any cycle training updates for about 10 days. Wonder where I am? I'm here

For the next 10 days I'll be traveling with, hanging out, working hard and laughing alongside 20 teenagers. I know you are jealous.

More to come when I return.

Also... Team Support Sarah continues to grow. The newest member is Lori L. Welcome to the team!

Would you like to join? Membership is easy!

More THANKS

2008-07-31T16:13:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Putnams, Schropfers, Pete S, Lydia N & Donna P to team Support Sarah".

Do you want to be part of my team? JOIN NOW

Today I'm at 8% of my fundraising goal.

Off To An Early Lead

2008-07-30T08:50:00.001-07:00

Donations already? Yes! THANK YOU to
Phil, Sharyn, Rudy, Leslie, Ping, Sarah A, Lori & Linda for kick-starting my fundraising efforts.

I have yet to don a helmet, clip into pedals, touch a bike and you have given early and generously.

Donations of any amount will help me reach my goal of $7,500 and support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society fund research and provide patient care to many in need.

Thank you for your support. I can't wait to get started on the bum-aching training.

and now we are TEAM-mates

2008-07-28T11:51:00.000-07:00

I just found out that my TNT running coach, Mama Lisa, will be my team mate for the cycle season. So fun!

Kick-Off is on Saturday morning. We'll meet our whole team, our small groups, our coaches, mentors, honorees. We'll get inspired to ride & raise money. I'm so looking forward to this new callenge.

I joined 24Hour Gym to help my mid-week training. Hopefully I'll get my muscles strong, my cardio up to snuff & meet the time required for my event.

Keep me in your thoughts... I'm going to need all the support I can get.

Now Accepting Donations

2008-07-15T10:23:00.000-07:00

Give a little it means a lot

A Century = 100 miles in one day... on a bike!

2008-07-15T09:39:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm crazy. Yes, I signed up to train for a 100 mile bike ride. Between Aug - Nov I'll be riding between 40-100+ miles per week. Why? To raise money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

The event I plan to participate in is Solvang's Finest Century Apparently this is a timed event so not only do I have to learn how to ride a bike, I have to ride it fast so I can finish before they close the course.

Wish me luck! If you would like to take up the challenge yourself attend an info meeting with Team In Training

My fundraising information will be posted soon.

Absentee Blogger

2008-07-08T10:43:00.000-07:00

I apologize for not posting more frequently. I'm in the off season and not much is going on. Next week I will attend the informational meeting on the Solvang Century (100 mile) Bike Ride. Kick-off for the fall cycle season will be Aug 2. I'm sure I'll have lots of new posts in a month.

What am I thinking?

Feel The Burn

2008-06-12T10:30:00.001-07:00

The elliptical machine is my new friend. The first time I tried this machine it felt so awkward but last night I felt in balance & at home.

I started the workout session with 20 minutes on the bike, got bored. I dared to try the elliptical again. I finished 30 minutes on the elliptical (2 min. sections going forward & then reverse, increasing incline & resistance every 4 mins). By the end I had a great sweat going and a bit of muscle ache. I know why people dig that contraption. The workout finished in the weight room doing a few machines of arms & legs and a stretch.

I only have 45 day free pass and I feel like I'm not going to get the most out of the freebies. Life is busy but I'll get to the gym as often as possible. Unfortunately that might be only 1x/week. Better than nothing I guess. It's not that I'm not working out on the other six days. We continue to have the 3.2 mile run around Lake Merritt on Tuesdays. I've also got time to play soccer again and I scheduled a few hikes with the dogs.

So summer will be a mish/mash of exercise. Apparently the cycle season begins on Aug 2. Soon I will be sharing stories of that crazy adventure.

Back to work!

What is....?

2008-05-29T09:55:00.001-07:00

The large plasma screens set up in front of the bikes at the gym help to pass the time. Last night I finished my workout while watching an episode of Jeopardy! Is it poor gym etiquette to blurt the answers out loud? Too bad. This gym isn't high class. I've only been twice but let me tell you these gym rats are low on work-out manners.

At the center of the gym there is a nautilus circuit where you move from machine to machine and do one minute on each. There is a sign explaining this. Each machine is numbered. So you should wait for machine "1" to be free work for 60 seconds then move to the next, until you complete the circuit. If you want to do your 5 reps at your own pace please move to the free weights room in the back. Don't jump from "1" to "4" to "8" Also, don't sit on the machine to cool down & catch your breath. Sheesh people.

But I got a good 1.5 hour workout in which was good because our team blew off the buddy run Tues. By the time I got home & showered I was starving. Funny that.

Tonight the plan is to take the doggies out on a hike since I'm leaving them unsupervised for the weekend. It's the least I can do to keep them happy.

Another post will arrive on Monday.

Pumping Up

2008-05-27T11:00:00.000-07:00

I received a 45 day free pass to that little known gym that's open all night. Yesterday I was ready to activate the pass and get a little workout routine started. Unfortunately it was a holiday and the on-site manager wasn't authorized for passes longer than 14 days. I was allowed to utilize the gym for the day but must go back & meet with an official official, do the paperwork, listen to their spiel, blah blah blah before I get my limited time all access pass.

I found by way to the bike for a warm-up before heading to the nautilus circuit. Wow my arms are weak & my legs are strong. I could do between 20-30lb reps on the arm equipment but 150lb leg presses were no problem. I continue to be a lower body girl. My plan is to build up my core & arm strength by the end of the 45 days.

Following the weights I had my first experience with the eliptical machine. That is the weirdest most awkward sensation I've ever had in a gym. It felt so unnatural but I stuck with it for 30 minutes. I would do 2-5mins forward & 2-5mins in reverse. Going backwards felt so much easier & more natural. I really had to concentrate on that thing. But wow what a great sweat!

In addition to the weights & aerobics my goal is to be concientious about stretching. This will be the biggest challenge of them all.

The team season is winding down. We have the final two events in June and then Team "Because We Can" will disband. I hope the new participants found what they were looking for with TNT. I also hope some of them will continue to attend the Tuesday night buddy runs. It's a nice routine to have.

Hopefully this next 45 days will kick-start my weight loss.

Recovery

2008-05-15T10:05:00.000-07:00

It's been ten days since The Ave and I still don't feel 100%. My muscles feel OK but the stupid cold refuses to leave me. I am up all night coughing so I'm short on sleep. I tried to join the buddy run around the lake on Tuesday and barely made it out one mile before turning back to the start.

I'm looking forward to feeling myself again - soon. Phlegm be gone!

The Third Time's The Charm

2008-05-06T09:59:00.000-07:00

This is the happy face of a finisher! Last year I crossed the finish in 3:08:39, my goal was to beat that time, my dream was to finish under 3 hours. I wasn't sure my dream was possible since I spent the week before the race with a head and chest cold. I woke up on Saturday with what I feared might be the start of an ear infection.

I headed north with hopes that 5 hours in the car would scare the germs away. It seemed to work - by Saturday evening I was feeling pretty good & getting excited to return to The Ave.

With a year of running under my belt I was able to keep up with my teammates and have people to talk with through the course. Last year I ran most of the event alone. I felt good and strong. I was able to stop to take pictures, cheer on my friends and enjoy the course.

At about mile 5 I began to feel a blister forming on my left foot so I removed my Superfeet orothotic insert and ran "lopsided". It worked, no blisters!

Everything was going great. I estimated my time between 12-13 minute miles, if I kept that pace I'd kick this race in the rear. Then I got to mile 8 and realized I needed a potty break. Oh, no I broke the seal. From then to the finish I had to stop at EVERY porta-potty along the course. This will definately slow me down.

Mile 10 brought calf cramps - no! Must drink more electrolytes. Must take another Gu.

Mile 11 brought thoughts of my dad and tears. He won't be at the finish line to greet me with a jug of beer. I think I have a sense of what it feels like to have asthma. It's hard to run and breathe while crying.

Mile 12 brought Lolo! Thank God, I needed some support & distraction. She ran me to the finish line.

I completed The Ave 2008 and beat my goal and my dream came true. I crossed the finish line in 2:59:54. I beat my course record by 8 minutes 45 seconds, I beat my personal best (Nike 1/2 2007 3:00:04) and can now hang up my running shoes.

Up next... a few months of rest and then I take on the challenge of a century cycle: Solvang's Finest 100 Miles.

Albums:
My photos
Kieran's photos

The Ave 08

2008-05-05T22:28:00.000-07:00

I'm home from The Ave 2008. I will post a wrap-up soon but here's a flashback to 2007 so when I finally post this years account you can do a compare & contrast: I did the damn thing!

Here's a teaser... I achieved two goals:
1) Beat 2007 finish time!
2) Finish sub 3!

The race was incredibly hard both physically & emotionally. More on that later. I need sleep.

Cold Feet

2008-04-24T10:29:00.001-07:00

I've been rolling my feet over a frozen bottle of water all morning. I probably should have been doing this for a while now to ease the aches. After each run for the past few weeks the bottoms of my feet have hurt.

Today's final track workout before The Ave was great. Two miles around the track - alternate first lap sprint, second lap slow to recover, repeat for 8 total laps. Then we headed out to the street for the 40 yard steep hill sprints x3. Whoo hoo were my legs wobbly & my lungs burning.

It was nice to end the track season with a few friends over a cup of Peet's. Major Dickason's is a great post workout refresher. I need to eat something now, my tummy is growling at me.

9 days to go.

I Broke The Psychological Barrier

2008-04-23T09:31:00.000-07:00

Here is what oakland.net has to say about the lake:

Lake Merritt is a focal point, it stands as the jewel of Oakland, even crowned with lights. A unique fresh and salt-water lake, the largest such lake located within an urban area consisting of 3.4 miles around the circumference of the lake, covering 155 acres of land. The depth of Lake Merritt varies upon how much water is allowed to filter in from the Estuary and upon rain water intake.

With adjacent and nearby parks and amenities to enjoy such as Snow Park where you may play several rounds of golf, walk or jog up and down the Cleveland Cascades, play a set of tennis at the Athol Tennis Courts, rent a kayak at the Lake Merritt Boating Center, read a book from the Main or Lakeview Library, or bring your magical keys to enjoy a whole new world at Children's Fairyland ~ the fun begins here.

For me this lake is daunting and apparently a necessary evil in my training. Every Tuesday evening for the past year I've met up with a group training with TEAM to run around the lake. For some reason running around the lake is hard for me. I can run a 1/2 marathon but I can't make it all the way around that damn lake without stopping to walk, to catch my breath, to stretch.

Until last night. I did it. Finally. With the distraction of my friend, Leti, I ran the whole thing. I felt good doing it. I had many moments of "this would be a good place to walk" but since Leti was my buddy for the night I wanted to keep up with her. If I stopped, she'd have to stop... the guilt was too much to bear. Ha!

Ha ha, Mr Lake, you got nothing on me now. I own you!

It was Belinda's birthday so we went to Luka's Taproom to celebrate after the run. Wow, what a cool place. Why have I not been there before? I tried to stick to my "big fat loser" diet by ordering a salad but I also had two refreshing Stella's and snuck a few fries off the other plates. Oh I also had a couple of bites of the birthday ice cream sundae. Regardless of all that I lost weight again this week.

Final Long Run

2008-04-21T10:42:00.001-07:00

View Larger Map I ran 9 miles on Saturday. Don't follow the blue line since that's a map for a car... rather imagine yourself trotting along the shore line from point A to point B & back again.

I managed to run somewhere between a 12.77 - 13.33 min/mile. I didn't get a good look at my watch when I crossed the finish line but those are my estimated best/worst time. Either way I'm excited because if I manage to run that pace in 2 weeks I'll finish The Ave in under 3 hours. That's my goal.

I decided to go out for breakfast with a few other mentors after the run so I missed the window to take an ice bath. Woops, my feet & legs would have enjoyed that. I did get home in time to sit in the sun, take a nap, enjoy a great dinner & fall asleep on the couch about 9. A 9 mile run = great sound sleep for at least 11 hrs. AWESOME!

Sunday was a play day to Healdsburg to taste some wine and get back to SF in time for The Waifs concert.

A great weekend! What did you do?

What a Week

2008-04-17T10:58:00.000-07:00

So sorry for the long gap in postings. I'll catch you up on what's the happs. Last Thursday we did the triple loop of hills with circuit drills (crunches, push-ups, supermans, squats). Friday I enjoyed the rest before our first long run. Saturday was a beautiful day for 6-8 miles along the San Leandro Marina trail. Typically I run the short to average prescribed distance because either I'm scared to run that far or I hope to prevent injury. I pushed myself and did the full 8 miles! Wow that was fun and hard and a leap over the psychological barrier. By the time I got back to base-camp the sun was blasting heat - it was at least 80. I felt bad for the rest of the team that was still on the trail hitting the 14 mile marker. This trail is totally exposed, not a tree or shade spot for most of the route. Bonus of the day: I got to see a cute little skunk waddle across the path too.

By the time I got home at noon the heat of the day was close to 90. I had promised my roommate that I'd spend time gardening this weekend to get the house ready for spring. I ate my lunch, drank more fluids, changed my shoes and got to weeding. I'm not sure that was the best idea after the run & in that heat. After an hour or two I quit that job and found a cold drink. I made a phone call that I don't remember - perhaps a bit of heat exhaustion had hit! We spend another few hours on Sunday cleaning up the beds and spread two cubic yards of mulch... talk about back breaking work.

Tuesday night's buddy run was hard for me because my feet hurt too much to run. I ended up walking the lake but it felt good. I also rode my stationary bike to keep up the cardio that I missed by not running. I may have a touch of plantar fasciitis. Boo.

I was so excited for track this morning - ready to get a good workout in to start the day. Somehow the volume on my alarm clock was turned down & I didn't hear the 5AM wake-up radio. I woke up on my own after 6 and missed it. Total bummer. I slunk out of bed & rode my bike 7 miles while catching up on The Daily Show & Sport Center.

Saturday is our LONG long run - I'll log 10 miles and then we start to taper. The race is a mere 2 weeks away. So excited.

Big Fat Loser

2008-04-09T10:49:00.000-07:00

I've been running for just over one year and something we hear in endurance training is "now is not the time to try to lose weight". According to our coaches we need to eat the right foods in the right combinations to fuel our bodies. When I started this in 2007 I dropped 5 lbs right off the bat. I wasn't trying to - it just happened. I was exercising and didn't increase my intake much but learned that I was getting hungrier as the training increased. To keep my fuel tank full I started to add quantity to my meals. So I have a routine of running 3x a week, anywhere from 2-8 miles per run and balanced my eating to maintain my weight for the past year. My muscle tone has changed, my strength and aerobic levels have increased, bummer that the number on the scale holds steady at a number I wish was smaller.

So last Wednesday KK and I decided to challenge each other to be a BIG FAT LOSER! I've been using an online meal & exercise tracker: The Daily Plate to record my eating & workouts. I think the personal challenge & the routine of recording everything I do has helped. I lost 2 lb this week. I'm a big fat loser. Good job, me!

Our challenge is to lose 10% by May 31. I'm on my way.

Time is Ticking Away

2008-04-08T09:32:00.000-07:00

Tonight I hope to get a full run around the lake & feel good doing it! I've got to get back in the groove since this weekend we have a "long run". The miles are going to start piling up on me & I have less than one month to prepare.

Nice Try

2008-04-02T09:56:00.000-07:00

Well it was more of a walk than a run but it was mostly due to the upset tummy that hit about 1/2 way around the lake.

Tomorrow back to track with Coach. That will be fun.

Back to a Routine

2008-04-01T15:42:00.001-07:00

I return to my weekly buddy run tonight. I've been off my feet 14 days. This will be interesting. I'll let you know how it went.

Standing Room Only

2008-03-26T12:16:00.000-07:00

The memorial service for my dad was an amazing celebration of a life well lived & a man well loved. Thank you to everyone who has walked with me during the last few weeks as he fought to stay around another day.

Heaven is probably still cleaning up the mess from his welcome party.

I miss you, Dad. Thanks for all your love and laughter.

Like A Thief in the Night

2008-03-17T12:01:00.000-07:00

I steal another post from my pal Phil

On a different note, I am pimping my Marathon Coach, Mama Lisa's Hike For Discovery Fundraising webpage. She doesn't know i'm doing this and is too modest to ask for assistance. Mama Lisa has been a Coach with TNT for 11 years and will be a participant hiking the Grand Canyon. Her goal is to raise $4,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Mama Lisa is a very special person and she along with Coach Al have laid the foundation for me to do all these wonderful endurance events. For that, I can never thank them enough. If you ever been fortunate to be touched by their generosity and kindness, this would be a great way to give another thanks. So if you are able to assist (every little bit helps) and want to rid blood cancers, please donate on her behalf here:

http://www.active.com/donate/hfdsf/Lisa_Felder

This is my third season with Team in Training and I couldn't have done any of this without her. Since I'm not fundraising this season I ask that you make a donation to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society through Mama Lisa

Thanks to Mama Lisa I am an endurance athlete.

Beautiful Day for a Run

2008-03-17T10:14:00.000-07:00

I will post my official time for the Emerald Across the Bay 12K when it's announced by race organizers. But regardless of my speed it was a perfect day. I got a little sun on my nose & my legs are feeling it today but it was all good & well worth it.

You Are Invited

2008-03-12T10:10:00.000-07:00

Please join us for the Brenda Donato Rainbow 5K Fun Run/Walk

Last year I introduced you to my team's honoree, Brenda. Unfortunately she lost her battle mid-way through my first season with TNT. Her friends are holding a 5K fun run in her honor. Everyone is welcome to participate. Funds raised will go to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Help us find a cure for blood cancers.

What is Brenda Donato’s Rainbow Run?
A fun 5K run & walk to remember Brenda Donato, a wife and mother of two who lost her battle with leukemia on April 14th, 2007. Brenda became extremely active in The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team In Training program and met many loving and supportive friends who will commemorate her brave battle by running/walking and strolling in her honor on race day. Please join us.

Date: Sunday, April 13, 2008, 8:30 am -12:30 pm

Location: Heather Farms Park, N San Carlos Drive and Ygnacio Valley Road Walnut Creek, CA 94598

Packet Pick-up: Saturday, April 12; 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm, Sports Basement, 1881 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Walnut Creek, CA 94598

My Weekend Event

2008-03-11T12:26:00.000-07:00

I don't have the brain power to post creative thoughts at the moment. So look at this pretty picture. I'm running the Emerald Nuts 12K on Sunday

A Little Inspiration

2008-03-06T10:29:00.001-08:00

Try to not feel fired up after listening to this music:

This AM we did hill repeats with circuit drills (squats, crunches, supermans, push-ups) It's great to have a good burn & sweat before the sun comes up!

Stolen Post

2008-03-05T09:53:00.000-08:00

I share with you the latest post from my friend, Phil Go to Phil's blog to see a picture of Travis.

When Travis wrote the following, he was 12 years old celebrating six years of being leukemia free after a match was found through the National Marrow Donor Program. Just wanted to share his message.

If You Haven't Had Cancer
By Travis Yon

If you haven't had cancer, you don't know attention. You can't know attention. The constant questions and the feelings of being surrounded. The "Does this hurt?" and the "Can you feel that?" You are never alone. There is always someone watching you. Whether it's your doctor, nurse, mom, dad, brother, or sister, grandpa or grandma. You are always supervised. If you haven't had cancer you don't know attention.

If you haven't had cancer, you don't know medicine. There is no way you can know medicine. The continual injections, pills, swallowing, and IV's. The charts and keeping track. The discomfort and vomiting. The exhausting chemotherapy and radiation. The 75 medicines a day. If you haven't had cancer you can't know medicine.

If you haven't had cancer you don't know pain. You can't know pain. The injections, the radiation, and the chemotherapy. Pure torture. Fear. That is pain. It's the worst. If you haven't had cancer, you don't know pain.

If you haven't had cancer, you don't know long-term. You can't know long-term. The long, boring hours of just waiting. Doing nothing. Pathetically trying to brainstorm ways to amuse yourself. Waiting for it all to be over. Waiting for the results. It is grueling. If you haven't had cancer you don't know long-term.

If you haven't had cancer you don't know joy. You can't know joy. The joy of surviving, making it, you're done, sprung, released, out through. If you haven't had cancer you don't know joy.

That Was Fast... 2X

2008-02-27T09:17:00.000-08:00

1) He's home. Now pray for my mom who has to deal with him. Dad's 18th Birthday is on Friday (he's a leaper)Here's a pic from last year's BDay party:

2) I set a personal record for a run around Lake Merritt last night. With the "help" of my friend Phil I finished 3.2miles in 37:05 Good job, me!

The Spleen Has Left the Body

2008-02-25T11:06:00.000-08:00

We made it through surgery & are on the road to recovery. Thanks for all your prayers & wishes. His five pound spleen is gone gone gone & his blood counts are looking good.

Update

2008-02-19T14:41:00.000-08:00

My dad is going in for surgery sometime in the next few days. Continue those prayers & shout-outs (my TNT mates know what I mean)

Miracles & Prayers Accepted

2008-02-12T10:40:00.000-08:00

Bill Crawford (my dad) could use your prayers (or whatever) His red blood cell counts are way too low right now. Thanks.

Dark O'Clock is Dang Early

2008-02-07T10:09:00.000-08:00

Yes, I woke up at that early hour. You'd think after two full seasons with TEAM I'd be used to the 5AM alarm. At least it wasn't raining. Once I got myself out of bed, fed & in the car I started to get excited about running again. I forgot how good it feels to finish a workout. I ran 1.25 miles in exactly 15mins. For the first time in all my TEAM runs I got a negative split on each lap. For those not in the know of running lingo a negative split is when you run slow on first lap (or distance) & sequentially faster on each following lap. I dropped 1-2 seconds on each lap. Yay me - I do finally figure it out.

So now I'm at work, I've been up for over 5 hours, I've got energy to cruise through all the stuff in the "to do" pile. Watch the "in-box" empty! Tonight I'll hang out with the girls & catch up on Project Runway. Friday is a day of RICE (rest, ice, compress, elevate)so I'm sure there will be nothing to post. See you back here on Saturday!

Here are all the brave souls who made the early workout

Fuel for the Running

2008-02-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

Turkey Chili
After the buddy run last night I stopped by the grocery store to pick up some "high potassium foods" in hopes of avoiding leg cramps this season. I grabbed some dried apricots, an avocado and bananas (obvious). By now it was after my usual dinner time & I was getting hungry - never shop when hungry, right? I wanted something quick & easy but I also wanted to cook something that would make good leftovers for meals the rest of the week. Ground turkey was on sale... I was inspired. What's got more protien, fiber, flavor & spice than a pot of chili?

So here's my recipe:
1.25lb ground turkey
2 pkts of Chili spice (one wasn't enough)
1 14oz can of black beans (rinsed)
1 14oz can of dark red kidney beans (rinsed)
1 14oz can of whole kernel corn (rinsed)
1 28 oz can of diced tomatoes (with liquid)
1/2 small can of diced jalepenos

Brown the meat, add spice packs & all other ingredients. Heat & serve or simmer until the flavors meld to your preference.

If you want to fatten up the dish top with chopped red onions, sharp cheddar cheese &/or sour cream.

Go Team

2008-02-04T19:33:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for something to do?

I'm Doing OK

2008-01-31T09:58:00.001-08:00

This Is My Life, Rated
Life:	8.5
Mind:	8.3
Body:	8.2
Spirit:	9.2
Friends/Family:	6.1
Love:	7.7
Finance:	8.1
Take the Rate My Life Quiz

I'll retake the quiz at the end of the season and see how life improves with a little bit of running & good deeds. I'm pretty lucky. I'm suprised that my "family & friends" line is the lowest. I'd rate them darn high. They are the best!

Third Time's A Charm

2008-01-28T10:33:00.001-08:00

(thanks to Phil for the photo inspiration)

On Saturday I attended the Spring Season Kick-Off event & was once again moved to tears and laughter. I am co-mentoring this season and we met over half of our mentor group. They have great positive energy & I think we'll all have an amazingly successful season.

I look forward to lacing up my shoes & hitting the trails with these people.

Coach Al led us through the cheers and gave us our team name: "Because We Can"
We can and we will!

10 Days Ago

2007-11-01T09:39:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it was 10 days ago that I ran my 2nd 1/2 marathon. I'm still enjoying the post-race "high". I have agreed to mentor again in the spring. I hope you will continue to check in on this blog. In February I'll get back to regular frequent posts but until then I'm going to enjoy the freedom of my schedule. No obligations to run - if I go out for a few miles it will be for fun.

I'm still accepting donations.

Donating is easier than running, I promise. I ran... it was beautiful, awesome, inspiring. It was not easy.

If you are interested in training for an endurance event please check your local TNT chapter. It is SO worth the experience. You will be so proud of yourself.

My Big Disappointment

2007-10-23T11:44:00.003-07:00

I just read the SFGate.com article about the Nike Marathon and am kicking myself. I was so close to one of my heroes, Brandi Chastain
So close yet so far. What a bummer.

Scroll down two posts for a recap in pictures of the big day!

Give Now

2007-10-23T09:18:00.000-07:00

I'm still accepting donations.

Donating is easier than running, I promise. I ran... it was beautiful, awesome, inspiring. It was not easy.