Newton-Wellesley Hospital Boston Marathon 2012

Thank You – Todd

2011-04-25T15:28:00.001-04:00

I finished and reached my goal! I have so many people to thank. First of all I would like to thank Newton-Wellesley Hospital for giving me an official Marathon entry. Thanks to my family for giving me the time to train. Thanks to the Laboratory staff for all of their encouragement. On the night before the Marathon I stayed at a friend’s house in Marlborough. This allowed me to sleep in and avoid the long bus ride from Boston. (And to eat Oreo cookies as a midnight pre-race energy snack.) The run itself was enjoyable all the way until the first of the Newton hills. Thanks to my friends, family and co-workers that cheered as I passed. My children each had a sign and a GU for me, which was a big boost. The fans throughout the course were amazing. I especially appreciated the kids who were handing out popsicles. Later in the run, when I was miserable, I was encouraged to see any kid with a sign that said “Go Dad.” After the race I went out to dinner and ice cream wearing my Boston Marathon Medal. Thanks JP licks for my congratulatory ice cream sundae! I took a week of vacation at home with my family during which I was able to fully recuperate. Finally, thanks goes to those who work in and support all of the great work that is done at the Vernon Cancer Center at Newton-Wellesley Hospital.

My First Race – Jacqui

2011-04-25T09:52:00.001-04:00

It is hard to believe that a few days ago I ran 26.2 miles. I am thrilled to have been able to take part in the Boston Marathon. It was really amazing to see firsthand the corrals of 30,000 people preparing to run, the Hopkinton forest bathroom breakers, the Wellesley College screamers, the challenges of Heartbreak Hill, the Boston College drinkers, the Citgo sign hill and of course the FINISH line. It was very uplifting to see my family spread out along the course. They greeted me with signs, cow bells and cheers, which helped to carry me forward. I was surprised to see energetic and supportive spectators continuously along the road throughout the whole race. I was very entertained by the signs and clothing of spectators and runners alike. Very early on in the race – way back in Ashland or Hopkinton – someone had set up a town line sign for Brookline. For most of the run, I paced behind someone in a hot pink tutu. I kept crossing paths with a woman in a leopard dress, and I even saw a pair of people dressed as a “hamburger and fries.” I saw President Lincoln run by me in a full long-sleeve suit and wondered how he would fare in that outfit, seeing that I was struggling while in comfortable running gear.

Despite the numerous warnings to watch the pace early on in the race, I ran 10-minute miles for the first 15K. Although I knew I was running faster than my training (12-minute miles), I was not sure if the fast pace was due to the expected “30 to 90 second faster race day pace” or the much-dreaded “going too fast and will burn out soon” theory. Right around 13 miles I suddenly learned the answer: I was going too fast. I also realized that I was a little dehydrated as I hadn’t increased my water intake to account for the warmer weather. I drank water and Gatorade, ate a few oranges and walked for two to three minutes every mile instead of my usual one-minute walk. I did this over the next few miles and felt much better by mile 17. I am so grateful to those souls that handed out the orange slices that helped to revitalize me. Although I had made a recovery, I wasn’t sure how tenuous it was, so I decided to walk the three big hills. I was disappointed by this concession as I had trained the last 14 weeks running these hills and thought I was ready to take them on, but the last thing I wanted to do was not finish the race.

Then at the top of Heartbreak Hill, my uncle joined me for the last five miles. After the demoralizing hills, it was such a wonderful site to see him with a fresh face eager for the run together. We finished out the race together enjoying the sites and sounds of the Boston Marathon. Although my overall pace ended up being slower than my goal of 12-minute miles, I was able to finish the race strong. Since I have never done any running race before, I am proud to walk away from the Boston Marathon with a finish time of 5:32 – and of course a really cool medal!

Actually, I am walking away from this experience with a whole lot more than that. I exceeded my fundraising goal for the NWH Cancer Center. I learned that my friends, family and co-workers are an incredibly supportive group of people. I learned that one of my great strengths as well as one of my great weaknesses is that I always try to get more out of any given situation. I learned that my dog, Rowen, loves to run. And did I mention that I got a really cool medal?

Success! - Elise

2011-04-22T16:05:00.002-04:00

I was going for under five hours and made it! 4:55. I felt good the whole time but definitely slowed down on Heartbreak Hill. I was so impressed with the crowds cheering along the way. There were so many people it felt great. The finish was so awesome and packed with fans. I ended up getting the free massage they offer all runners after the race. I think it really helped with the recovery, that and the beer with my dinner. I just wanted to thank all my friends and family that supported me along the way. I couldn't of finished without you!

Still Sinking In – Jenna

2011-04-20T14:09:00.001-04:00

What a day! I finished my first marathon ever, the Boston Marathon 2011, in 4:57. It’s a bit longer than the 4:30 I was hoping to run it in, but I don't mind because I know I gave it my all. Everything went well, until about Mile 21, after the Hills, when everything seemed to slow down.

My running buddy Ture and I, whom I ran with for all our long runs, stayed together from start to finish, helping pep each other up over the last five miles when we were both hurting a bit. I was able to see some of my other friends along the way, many of whom were running for other charities, so that was really neat. The very best part for me was making the turn onto Boylston and seeing all of my family and friends cheering for me as I ran by strong and bolted to the finish line. Even though I was hurting, they all said I ran right by like it was the first mile, which is exactly how I wanted to finish!

I loved the whole finishing experience – crossing the finish line, getting wrapped in my marathon foil and receiving my medal. All of the volunteers were so nice, and greeted me like I was the only runner there that day, with enthusiasm and smiles. The BAA and all the thousands of volunteers do a great job of putting on the race and showing all runners a great time.

I met my fiancé and family at the athlete meeting area, took some pictures and headed back home, only a block from the start line (thank goodness!). From there, we celebrated and barbequed, with me mainly enjoying my new found appreciation for sitting still!

I found it quite amazing that no matter how much I was hurting at the end, all these thoughts vanished as soon as I crossed the finish line! The whole day was very special for both my family and me, and I appreciate all the support from everyone whom I knew and I did not know who cheered for me and NWH along the way.

I am not sure if I will continue to stick with my usual half marathons, or will now be addicted to full marathons, only time will tell. I thank NWH for giving me the opportunity to run and support our organization, everyone who donated and supported me along the way and my family and friends for being understanding when running became one of my top priorities over the past few months.

It's still sinking in that I have achieved this dream of mine (and ran for approximately five hours!!)

Ready – Jacqui

2011-04-19T10:49:00.000-04:00

The mileage this week was even less than last week. I found it hard mentally to cut back on my regimen after training on longer runs for so long. At first, I began increasing my speed as I had a lot of excess energy, but I quickly learned this is NOT what you are supposed to do during the taper weeks. The next day after running 10 to 11-minute miles (up from my prior 12-minute miles), all of my muscles in my legs tightened up. Ugh... definitely not the time to develop new injuries!

Although I have the energy to go faster and train harder now that I am not running really long distances, the whole idea behind a taper is resting your body and muscles for the big day. I have found that I have to consciously hold myself back during my runs as it just seems too easy. Who is this person?

I am trying to focus more on getting good sleep and stretching regularly. I am really loving the extra time away from running to spend with my family. I have done all of the hard work. Now it is just a matter of time until the big day. I am ready.

A Force to be Reckoned With – Jacqui

2011-04-18T10:06:00.000-04:00

I made it at last! This is my final entry before the big run. I am both very excited and anxious about the upcoming day. Since I have not been running excessive mileage over the last three weeks, there is a part of me that worries that I can no longer do a really long run. I know the whole taper idea is tried and true by the best of experts, but I am still anxious about the distance. 26.2 miles seems a lot longer to me this week after only running a maximum of eight miles last weekend, compared to three weeks ago when I had just run 20.6miles. It is a good thing the mileage is less this week, as I have been spending a lot of time trying to coordinate my run and my supporters. I picked up my running shirt and some cow bells from Newton-Wellesley today. This weekend I’ll be getting my bib #26135. The Boston Athletic Association offers many options to track runners while on the course. You can sign up for text messages that alert spectators to specific mile markers once crossed and you can monitor progress on-line. The Boston course has a lot of key topographical and emotional landmarks, so runners often have loved ones at pre-specified locations for help with motivation in these areas. Many people have informed me that they plan to come out to see me run. I thought that I would probably have my husband, son and parents watching me on Marathon Monday, but I never dreamed this many people would fight the crowds to see me pass by. I can’t believe how supportive my friends and family have been. I have been getting phone calls, e-mails, snail mails, care packages and donations for the Newton-Wellesley charity all week long. If you are planning on coming out for the run and you happen to see me in the crowd, please yell out your support. I will use every and any help out there. Thank you for joining me on this journey to 26.2 miles. It has been a long and hard 14 weeks, but now I feel like I can cross any bridge that comes in my path. Armed with my realized physical and emotional stamina, and more importantly my amazing support network – I can be a force to be reckoned with.

Run Home! – Jenna

2011-04-18T10:00:00.000-04:00

Only one easy two-mile run on Saturday stands between me and the Boston Marathon! I couldn't be more excited. I live in the Back Bay, right near the convention center, and they are already setting up some of the tents and hanging the posters, which is pretty neat. I can't wait to go to the convention to pick up my number and see all the other runners and take it all in. All I have to tell myself on Monday is RUN HOME! My last 20 miler went well, and I am feeling strong. I have no doubt in my mind I can run this and run it well - as long as I fuel at the right points, and not worry too much about the hills. I am excited for mile 17 - to run by the Hospital, as I know I will need a little boost pre-Heartbreak Hill. I wore my NWH jersey top last night for an easy three miles and it wore well, so I know I can wear this on race day without any problem. I will be running with my running buddy Ture, who I have trained most long runs with, and I really hope we both do well and can cross the finish line together! All in all, I am soooo excited, and I can't wait for Monday. Thank you to NWH for giving me the opportunity to run the Marathon, support our organization and raise money to support our brave cancer patients and the services that benefit them here at the Hospital. Thank you to all my family, friends and co-workers who have helped me surpass my fundraising goal! Thank you to all the individuals who have organized this for us, looked after our fundraising and helped us with the blog! You all have done a wonderful job and thank you for your support! Look for me on Monday is my yellow NWH jersey!

Carb Loading! – Elise

2011-04-14T11:38:00.000-04:00

Four more days to go! I start carb loading today. Increasing to about 70 percent of my calories during the day being from carbs. My best friend is flying in tomorrow to help me through the big day. We are going to go to the Marathon expo tomorrow afternoon. I have heard it is huge and a lot of fun. We plan to take it pretty easy for the rest of the weekend. Good luck everyone who is racing and thanks to all of the supporters! See you all race day!

Run Like a Rabbit – Todd

2011-04-14T10:18:00.000-04:00

This last week has been remarkable for the amount of recognition and encouragement that I have received from my friends and coworkers. Many friends have asked for an estimate of where I will be at their particular viewing posts. I hope I can see them along the route at the Hospital, the Fire Station, scattered up the Newton Hills and in Kenmore Square. Many members of the NWH community have stopped me in the halls and said they would be cheering me on. The NWH Laboratory had a recognition breakfast for the runners from the Laboratory and Sleep Center. It was nice to hear their words of encouragement while we all loaded up on carbohydrates. There was a rabbit theme with chocolate bunnies and a banner that said “Run Like a Rabbit.” I appreciate their suggestion that I might be that quick; however, I will be perfectly happy to finish like the tortoise.

Expert Advice: Almost There!

2011-04-08T13:34:00.000-04:00

Just over a week to go! Great job everyone! Hopefully you are all feeling confident and proud of what you have achieved so far! Don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns leading up to the big day. And remember, if you have any issues, we're hosting the Annual Post-Marathon Injury Clinics for registered runners of the BAA Boston Marathon. I think it’s a great idea to have friends and family meet you along the course. Even if it’s only for a mile, it’s uplifting to have someone run with you. Come race day, stick with your routine that you’ve used for your long runs. If you're used to eating two Ego Waffles, coffee and a glass of OJ before your run, then do that. If you run 45 minutes before you have any water, then do that and take it easy on the water stations…they'll be every mile. This is a great week to really be good about stretching, even if you just do some biking, the elliptical or a short jog, start with a warm up and then spend 20 minutes every day doing some good stretching. It'll help you feel limber and ready next Monday. Have fun and enjoy the taper!

Tapering for Race Day – Jacqui

2011-04-06T09:34:00.001-04:00

Every week up until this point had been additive, I was running longer and longer distances than I had ever run before. Since this is the first week of my taper, every run this week was shorter than last week’s runs. What a difference! The runs were easier and faster than ever before. After such an easy week, I was nervous that I would under estimate the long run of 12 miles on the weekend. The sting of barely making it through week 5’s long run of 13 miles is still very fresh in my memory. But even my long run of 12 miles seemed ridiculously short and fast. I can’t believe it is me talking this way, I must be possessed by running aliens. I once again ran on the Marathon course, parking in the middle and running out and back in both directions – making each leg only three miles. My running mascot, Rowen, joined me again on the first half of the run. Rowen runs as if she was made to do this and her energy is contagious. This week was the first time she did any hills and she kept her pace nice and strong for the whole “fire station hill” in Newton. I will miss her attitude and vigor come race day. I spent most of my long run mentally preparing for race day. I noted what cross streets landmark the start and peaks of the big hills. I also started thinking about where along the course would be good places to see friends and family. I just finished reading “26 miles to Boston” this week. It is a book that talks about the history, topography and challenges of every mile of the Boston Marathon. It was written by a man who ran Boston as a bandit first time marathon runner. The author talks about how uplifting and emotional it was for him to see specific people at designated places along his run. The author’s brother even jumped into the race at mile 21 and finished the last five miles by his side. I spoke with a few marathon runners that I know about this idea, and it seems to be pretty common for a loved one to jump in on your first marathon for some motivational support in the last miles. What an amazing idea! If only I knew someone who could run five miles AND someone who was willing to be around me while I am running longer and harder than ever before in my life…

Stretching It Out – Todd

2011-03-30T15:01:00.000-04:00

The last few weeks have been tough. However, I am happy to have started the taper portion of my training. This last Sunday I ran 20 miles and I was so relieved. It was my maximum length long run and was scheduled three weeks before the Marathon. A very busy work and home schedule kept me from running most of my midweek training runs. Then, two weekends ago I was demoralized when eight miles into a planned 18mile run my right iliotibial band tightened up. I had to stop running and walk back two miles. The following week I started a number of specific stretches given to me by fellow runner and blogger Jacqui Perna. I used them daily, during warm up, and during breaks at the three-mile marks of my run. They worked and allowed me to make it 20 miles. I parked my car on the Comm Ave carriage road at the intersection with Centre Street. I ran the reverse Marathon route to the Fire Station where I continued on Comm Ave instead of turning on Washington Street. I crossed the Pike and touched Rowe Street. That is three miles one way. I returned to my car and then did the whole circuit two more times, plus one more time to Walnut and back. I had Gatorade, Honest Kids Juice pouches and GU stashed in my car and smaller amounts in my pockets. This combination of calories and hydration worked well. I am running shorter distances this week and my attention is turning to figuring out how to get to the starting line and how to get home after the race.

Finish Line in Sight – Jenna

2011-03-29T10:51:00.001-04:00

Great Success! This week I ran the first 20 miles of the Marathon route, ending at Boston College. This was a true test of how things will go on Marathon day, and things went really well! I made it through the course and the hills without any shin problems, and generally felt I could have finished the last 6.2 miles once I got back to Boston. I was able to use my Powerade gummies along the way, and this time the re-fueling went well! I am really excited for race day now! The best part about the day was seeing all of the other marathoners out – they lined both sides of the streets along the course. However, I am looking forward to tapering down and giving my body a bit of a break, as I have been a bit more tired lately. A few shorter runs, a 10 miler and a 12 miler left, and then race day! It honestly can't come fast enough. I just can't wait to make it across that finish line!

Peak Mileage Week – Jacqui

2011-03-28T09:09:00.003-04:00

Week 10: I wrapped up week 10 by skipping my long run. At least it was a short longer run – only 14 miles. It was a “step back” week, so I feel I missed out on a confidence booster since the long run was short. Hopefully it won’t matter much physically, though missing the long run on week 10 did greatly increase my anxiety towards the next week's long run of 20 miles. Week 11: Despite week 10's skipped run, I completed Week 11’s mileage, which peaked at 20 miles during the week and culminated with a 20-mile long run on Saturday. Due to some miscalculations in where I was supposed to turn around on the long run, I ended up running 20.6 miles on Saturday. I am such an overachiever! I went a little slower this run than my usual 12-minute miles. I am unsure what slowed me down. Maybe it was the fact that I didn’t have my personal mascot – my dog, Rowen. Or maybe it was the brutal, cold wind, or perhaps the brand-new knee pain that I developed around mile 16 that made me limp a bit. Still, I was very impressed with myself that I was actually able to run 20.6 miles. Hopefully, that means I will be able to run the full 26.2 on marathon day. I am very relieved that I have made it to this great milestone of completing the “peak mileage” week. From here until race day, I will be running shorter and shorter distances to rest up for the big day. Now that it looks like I will actually be able to finish the Marathon, I have begun to think about my finish time. I have always been a competitive person, so it has been very difficult for me to put my pride aside and try to just finish the race. I know it is unrealistic to “start” running 14 weeks prior to a Marathon and expect to have a respectable finish time. But I cannot get over the fact that this is a race, not just a challenge to finish. So one of the many things that I thought about on my 20-mile run this week was my finish time. If I am able to continue the remaining six miles, even at the slower pace that I ran on Saturday, I will actually finish the Marathon under the six hour time limit the Boston Athletic Association sets.

Last Long Run Before the Big Day – Elise

2011-03-25T13:37:00.002-04:00

This Saturday I will be running the Marathon route from Hopkinton to where I live in Brighton. It is about 22 miles. I am so excited to be doing my last long run before the big day. I just picked up some new shoes yesterday at the New Balance Factory Store. I was afraid my old ones wouldn't last until the Marathon. I am trying to carb load before the run on Saturday to see how it feels. I have a new audible book for the run "The Reliable Wife", which is just getting good. I am going to take my brother's suggestion and freeze a couple of water bottles before to use for foot cramps after the run. I am hoping to pace around a 10:30 mile.

Expert Advice: Stay the Course

2011-03-25T13:37:00.001-04:00

With only three weeks and four days to go, this is the time to keep up with your training and look ahead to the taper. I hope you've all been stretching regularly, doing some cross training, core strength and stability training and taking care of your nutrition and hydration. But…whatever you have been doing, just keep doing it. I have met with too many hopefuls that have changed something in the final stages of training, only to upset the machine. Now is NOT the time to change your shoes, try a new speed program or start a fancy 45-minute workout. You're almost there…you can do it!

Another Successful Week – Jenna

2011-03-21T14:39:00.000-04:00

I successfully made up my mileage from last week, as well as completed my quickest 16 miles yet with L Street. Yesterday’s long run took us through Milton, Hyde Park, Canton and through the Blue Hills. I am feeling confident about completing the Marathon in a good time; however, the true test will be this coming Sunday when I run my longest distance yet – 22 miles on race course. We will start at Hopkinton and will end somewhere around Kenmore Square. This means I will be running Heartbreak at the same point I will on race day – something we have not done yet.

My friend Ture and I have decided to run the Marathon together as well. We have been training together and are running the same minute mile. This will make the whole experience more enjoyable for me and we can be there to cheer each other on throughout the whole race.

Over the past few weeks, I have been running faster and faster, originally starting somewhere around 10:30 minute miles and have been keeping a steady pace of 9:45, which is faster than I ever thought I would run for Marathon pace.

April 18th can't come fast enough!

Runner’s High – Jacqui

2011-03-17T08:54:00.000-04:00

I reached a couple of exciting milestones this week. The first milestone was that I ran the longest distance of my life and am still upright to tell about it. I ran 18 miles on the Marathon route, from Pete’s Coffee in Wellesley to the Chestnut Hill Ave T Stop and back. My mileage this week ramped up to 36 miles from last week’s 29 miles. This is the first week that I am coming off a "step back" week, where the mileage is reduced to allow for gathering strength for the next push upward. I had been playing catch up all of this time – trying to do an 18-week training program in 14 weeks. I had been continuously increasing my mileage for seven weeks straight without ever having been a runner prior to that. I never felt like I had an easy run, as I was always pushing it further than I had ever pushed it before. I keep reading everywhere that rest is an important component of any training program and now I know why. I really felt the difference this week. I ran two runs during the week where I actually felt wonderful and got a taste of runner’s high – my second milestone. The runs were on the treadmill, which I usually tend to find very tedious and they were back to back at nine miles and five miles respectively. I found that I could have easily done a lot more!! Thankfully I am finally starting to feel some true progress.

After having run 18 miles total during the week, I set out for my 18-mile run on Saturday. Truthfully, I was a bit nervous about it. I didn’t think I could do it. But the miles passed by without too much effort. I did the first half with my dog again. She held up wonderfully once again. She is getting better about being a good running partner, only two barks the whole nine miles. That is saying a lot for a Border Collie, as they like to bark when they “work.” I am starting to see her as my personal mascot – Rowen, the Marathon dog. She then retired to the car and I set off for the hills of Newton. I started to fatigue around mile 16 and by the time mile 18 rolled around I was VERY grateful to see my glorious blue car sitting there waiting for me. I praised my car for being there to carry me home when I needed it most. Though exhausted at the time, I did recover well the next day without too much hobbling. I even did the run faster than my goal of 12-minute miles. I now know that unless I have some unforeseen injury, that I will be able to get to the end of the Marathon. Pretty amazing for someone that couldn’t run more than three miles nine weeks ago.

A Balancing Act – Jenna

2011-03-14T15:59:00.000-04:00

This week will be an interesting week. I was away this weekend skiing and was not able to get in my long run of 15 miles. Therefore, I am going to try to make up these miles tonight and tomorrow. I felt a bit guilty about not being able to run this weekend; however, I wanted to have a fun weekend away with friends, and not let it hinder my fun and the fun of the group I was with. This has been one of the toughest parts of marathon training for me – balancing skiing and running. It's hard to ski hard one day and run a handful of miles the next. I just plain run out of energy for my run. It was all worth it, and I'll just have to set away some extra time after work this week for running.

Expert Advice: Stretching

2011-03-11T13:53:00.001-05:00

It sounds like everyone is sticking with their training and overcoming all the aches, pains, mental challenges, GI disturbances, boredom and weather-related issues! Nice to hear that we're hitting 20 miles and greater! Good job guys, keep it up!

I was recently asked about the value of stretching to avoid injury before or after exercise. Well, I believe that the jury is out on this one. There is literature to suggest that static stretching with 30 second holds before exercise does not decrease the risk of injury and that what is important is really a “warm up.” This is all well and good, but I still believe that some level of stretching at the beginning of a long run and then again at the end of your run can be helpful:

I would start off with a five-minute jog as a warm up, and then do a 10-minute stretching session. Focus on your quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, groin, IT band, hips and even your shoulders and neck. Stretching after a short warm up has been shown to be more effective than stretching “cold.” Personally, I found that when I did this, my run felt smoother, less stiff and achy and I didn't have the feeling that I had cement legs! I do think it’s very important, however, to spend 10 to 15 minutes stretching after your runs…especially the longer ones! Your muscles will feel tight and achy due to the lactic acid, fatigue and muscle strain, and the stretching can help you to recover quicker. And that hurt feels so good! Go team go!

Practicing the Hills – Jacqui

2011-03-11T09:31:00.001-05:00

Week 8 was uneventful, except that my 17-month-old son started crying when I got out my running shoes on Saturday. The poor guy kept sitting in my lap trying to prevent me from putting on my shoes. My mileage during the week ramped up, but the long run was shorter at only 12 miles. (This week’s total mileage was only 29 miles compared to last week’s 32.) Next week’s miles really ramp up, so I guess this week is all about rest – if you can call it that!

I ran outside for my long run and once again found it much easier than indoor training. It was pretty windy and it felt like I wasn’t making very much progress at times, but I ran at a slightly faster pace outdoors than on the treadmill. Thankfully outdoor running seems to be much easier for me than indoor running. I was able to stay on Commonwealth Ave.’s carriage road for the whole six miles out and back. Most of the snow is finally gone, but it was really wet and muddy. I again brought my border collie for half of the run and she was a content, dirty mess at the end. It is giving me some confidence to run the actual Boston Marathon route, especially since I keep running the hills in Newton, which are famous for being difficult. I also continue to do power walks with a baby jogger on the Avenue for my cross training day. Hopefully, that stretch of the Marathon will be so familiar that come race day it will not be intimidating!

Downhill and Uphill – Elise

2011-03-07T16:17:00.001-05:00

I did my 20-mile run this past Saturday. I went out to Hopkinton and ran the course for ten miles and then turned back. I think it was a good comparison of the Marathon since the first ten miles are downhill so I had to run uphill the second half of my run, similar to Heartbreak Hill. I downloaded two "Wait Wait Don't Tell Me" episodes and two "This American Life" episodes that pretty much covered my run. I also tried out my new fuel belt, which was fairly comfortable and very helpful. I felt pretty good the next day, just some cramping in my foot. I think I am going to try carb loading before my next long run and see if it works.

Managing My Time While Training – Jenna

2011-03-07T15:26:00.001-05:00

This weekend I finished my 20-mile run! I ran from the Natick Armory to South Boston with the L Street Running club. This is the farthest I have run in one single bout to date! Most of the route was the Marathon course, which included the three big hills, including Heartbreak Hill! This was great because I became familiar with what I will be challenged with on race day. I had no idea how much the hills would fatigue my legs, and towards the end of the run it was pretty tough to keep going! However, I am so happy I had the experience this past weekend and have a better idea of what to expect.

I ran with my running buddy, Ture and we had a lot of time to talk during those three hours. I asked him if he had time to spend with family and friends during this time, especially as our mileage gets up high and our runs take longer and longer. He said it has required a lot of planning and sometimes saying "no" to things. We both agreed it can be a bit stressful. It made me feel a bit better, as it has been a bit of a challenge to manage my time and still have somewhat of a social life. For example, Saturday night I was at a friend’s birthday dinner until almost midnight (I was the first to leave - early bird), woke up at 5:45 am to catch the bus to the training run that started at 6:45 am, ran until 11:00 am, quickly showered and was at a baby shower at 12:30. I get a bit stressed trying to keep it all straight sometimes, but it’s nice to know I am not the only one! I know it will all be worth it come race day!

This is Doable – Jacqui

2011-03-04T10:00:00.001-05:00

Week 7 was a fantastically encouraging week for me. I decided the snow and ice were cleared enough for me to hit the road for the long run. So I plotted out my 16-mile course on the marathon route from Wellesley Hills to Chestnut Hill T station and back. There were a few logistics to figure out. What would I need to wear? How would I carry all the things I needed – waters and gels, as well as my iPod. I was also on call last weekend, so I would also have to bring both my pager and my phone. It seemed that I would need a backpack for all of this stuff! How would I keep my turtle pace? How would I know when to do my new plan of designated one-minute walks every mile?

At the last minute I decided to bring along one of my dogs for companionship and moral support. I opted to park in the middle of my route, that way I was able to run out four miles to Wellesley Hills and back with my dog. Then when I got back to my car, I dropped off my pup and sunglasses and picked up a new water and gloves for the second leg of the trip out to Chestnut Hill T station and back. I did manage to fit everything in a fanny pack that was easy enough to carry on my waist. I initially had some difficulty getting the pack to stay snug on my waist, but after a couple of stops for adjustments that problem was solved. I decided to just run at a comfortable pace and do my designated walks for one minute every three songs. My dog was a great running partner except for the occasional unsolicited barks at poor random passersby. I cannot believe the stamina of that dog! I figured I better only take her for half of the run, as she has never been on a run ever in her life. Not only did she keep up with me the whole time, but she never even touched the water I left out for her while I ran the other eight miles!

The run along Route 16 to Wellesley Hills was very icy and snowy. There were many times where my dog and I were running on pure ice and jumping over large piles of snow. The run on Commonwealth Ave, on the other hand, was perfect running conditions. The miles flew by outside as opposed to inside on the treadmill where the miles ebb by. I had been so anxious to start running outside, as I had been warned that both keeping a pace and the hills would be a huge hardship compared to treadmill running. I was amazed to find that I kept my same pace on both legs of the run. Despite the snow and ice and Heartbreak hill, I was able to comfortably run the whole 16 miles – except for my designated 16 minutes of walking. I actually even enjoyed myself out there. What a relief, this is definitely doable!

Gu Is a No Go – Jenna

2011-03-03T15:13:00.000-05:00

Getting back to my normal running schedule this week, I am excited to download another audio book from iTunes. This is something I never thought I would like, but it seems to keep me engaged as I go along and helps pass the time. My first audio book was four hours long, and I went through that in less than a week! Also, as far as fuel during my long runs, sometimes I need some and sometimes I don't. I am getting better at being able to tell when I need a little jumpstart and when I don't. I have found the "Gu" is a no-go. I have trouble getting it down and Gatorade makes me cramp up a bit. Swedish fish do work, but they tend to get stuck in your teeth. I found these organic dried fruit sticks at Whole Foods (looks like a small fruit roll-up) and bought a few to try this weekend for my long run. They are a bit easier to eat, and also a bit healthier for you (maybe?). I guess we'll see!

An Easy Long Run – Todd

2011-03-03T15:12:00.000-05:00

This last weekend I was able to complete a long run. Having skipped running for two weekends since my last long run of 15 miles, I did not really know what to expect or have a plan. I ate a small breakfast and lunch and started out with a pocket full of GU, PowerBar Gel and Jelly Belly Sport Beans. I have been consistently using the LogMyRun app for my iPhone to keep track of my time and distance. Somewhere near mile five, I realized that the app had crashed between mile three and four. Since I started the day without a goal I decided to just run a course and measure it later. I continued west on Comm Ave past the Fire Station to Lexington Street in Auburndale where I reversed course and ran all the way back to Waban Hill Road across from Boston College. From there, I ran home. I ate my snacks, drank juice pouches and really felt great for the whole run. The iPhone iPod function continued to work. I listed to the Proclaimers, the Pogues and Mumford & Sons. Upon returning home, I threw my 2XU compression tights into the washer and took a shower. I put the tights on as soon as there were clean and wore them for the rest of the day. I am going to optimistically assume that my training, the specially formulated sports snacks and my compression tight all contributed to an easy long run. When I traced my run, it measured 14 miles. Perhaps that is a few miles shorter than it should have been at this time, but overall I was very happy.

Toughest Week Yet – Jenna

2011-02-28T09:50:00.000-05:00

This past week I had a bit of a setback. I was not able to get my long run for last week in until this past Monday, due to the below 0 temperatures on Sunday in Vermont. I woke up early Monday morning and got all my gear together for a 15 miler along the Charles. Unfortunately, I forgot to check the weather, and it was snowing. I decided I wasn't going to let this get the best of me, so I packed on the layers and headed out. The Charles walking/running/biking trails had yet to be plowed and were extremely slick. Not to mention the snow was coming in sideways and I was having trouble seeing. All was well until mile 11, when I wiped out. I went down sideways on both knees, and it took me a good five minutes to get the feeling back in the lower half of my body. I decided to walk for five minutes or so, and compose myself, and wouldn't you know I fell again – on both knees. I knew at this point I had done some damage. I managed to jog/walk the last mile home, so unbelievably disappointed I couldn't finish. When I got home and could assess the damage, I found I had bumps on both knees where things had already swelled up, both knees were cut open, and already semi-bruised – worst case scenario. So to make a long story short, sore knees and hips, coupled with my shin splints, made for a very light week. I was able to get about seven miles in two 3.5-mile runs, and an hour of yoga.

I was super disappointed about this, but I knew taking the time to heal was important as I approach my longest runs yet. I had to skip my long run this weekend, and am hoping to make up some of that lost mileage this week in preparation for my 18 miler this weekend. Trying to keep my chin up here! Stay Tuned!

Figuring Out Walk Breaks – Jacqui

2011-02-28T09:49:00.000-05:00

Week 6 was slightly better than last week. I felt great during the week as the mileage was the same for my short runs, but the long run was just as hard and longer at 15 miles. This is the first long run where I ended up walking more than my designated walk breaks, which is walking for ½ mile every five miles. Though I walked the long distance more than I would have liked, I did end the last two miles running at my goal pace. The exciting thing is that I think that I discovered a problem with my walk breaks; they seem to be a little too long. When I start running again after my second walk break, my legs all of a sudden feel like they have cement blocks on them. I thought it would be good to get a long rest in, but my body seems to get the idea that we are all done and starting back up is very hard. I did a little research and found that a lot of people recommend walking for one minute every 10 minutes or every mile. That seems like a whole lot of starting and stopping to me, but my way doesn’t seem to be working so well. I have been drinking a gulp of water every one mile and eating energy gels every five miles, so the new walk breaks will coincide with this and make for more coordinated drinking and geling.

I also took a couple of walks on Commonwealth this week to check out the hills and the snow. It is still pretty icy at places, but I feel that I can finally start training outside this week! I am hoping that the change of scenery mixed with the enthusiasm of fellow runners will help with the longer runs. The hills are as long and steep as rumored, especially given that they are at the 20-mile mark of the run. My plan is to power walk the hills with the jogging stroller on my cross training days, so come race day the hills will seem easier without my 27-pound son along for the ride!

Running with Audio Books – Elise

2011-02-23T16:01:00.001-05:00

I had a good longer run (six miles) Saturday afternoon/evening. The only issue I had was that I started off when it was still light and warm outside and then realized about halfway through my run that the sun was going down and it was getting chilly quickly. I made it back with only some numb extremities but with little damage. I am almost done with "The Help" (audio book) so I went online and got another one, "Cutting for Stone". It sounds really good so now I am eager to run so I can listen to it.

A Tough Week – Jacqui

2011-02-18T14:45:00.001-05:00

Five weeks down and only nine more weeks until I run in the Boston Marathon! I need to keep making statements like this so that I actually start to believe the realness of it all. This was a HARD week for me. My late entry is proof of this, as I felt that I had very little positive things to write about. This week’s mileage was 27 miles, almost one mile over what I will do in ONE run on that fateful day in April. Now those of you who are runners may not understand this, but I am sure that the rest of you are with me on this one: 26.2 miles is a REALLY long distance to run! That is the kind of distance that takes some time even in a car. All along I had been convinced that I would slowly get used to running longer and longer distances and that come April, 26.2 miles would not seem so insanely far. Yes I have been slowly ramping up the distances, but no I haven’t come anywhere near getting used to it!

This week’s long run was a half marathon, which is three miles longer than last week’s long run. To say that the run was very hard would be an understatement. I did complete my goal, which was to run a 12-minute mile snail pace and to only walk for a half mile every five miles. Upon completion of the run I quickly showered and got in the car to meet up with my family for a party. I got extremely nauseated while in the car and it lasted for a good 20-30 minutes beyond my arrival. I also had multiple severe toe pains. I was basically a wreck and it was only half the distance of the marathon!

This was very disheartening to say the least. I was demoralized, exhausted and in a whole lot of pain. The next day I slept a lot and I drained the blisters under my toenails, which provided much relief of my toe pains. I also decided to take the next two days off from my regimen to get back on my feet – literally. I was secretly afraid that I had begun to give up. It wasn’t until week six began that I started feeling like myself again. I don’t know if it was the extra sleep or the lack of excruciating toe pain, but something happened that made me want to get back into my running shoes again. I rearranged my running schedule for week six so that my weekly mileage was not affected by my two-day break. I was able to arrange things so that I only lost one day of exercise and it was only a cross-training day. I also realized that week six should be slightly easier as it will be the first week that I am not on the accelerated running schedule. When I first found out that I was going to run Boston, the marathon was only 14 weeks away. I was unable to find a running plan for non-runners for that short of duration. I guess bells and sirens should have gone off in my head at this point, but instead I modified the first five weeks of an 18-week schedule. I tweaked the schedule to ramp up my workout every week instead of every other week until I caught up with the 18-week schedule. Now this will be the first week that I will have a whole extra week to get used to a regimen before it advances again. Week six here I come!

Long Ski Runs – Todd

2011-02-17T09:52:00.000-05:00

It is ski and snowboard season so for a few weeks in a row my long runs are being replaced by long runs of a different variety. This week I ran shorter distances of four and six miles. On the six-mile run I ran with my new full-length compression tights for the first time. They were not as warm as my other running pants. However, as the temperature rises my main concern will be keeping cool.

Running With the Running Club – Jenna

2011-02-17T08:46:00.001-05:00

Running with the L Street running club was the best decision I made regarding my marathon training so far. It has made planning my long runs less stressful and more enjoyable. Each weekend they set a new route for the marathon training program long run, and you can choose to do some or all of it – they leave the decision up to you. They email out directions the week before that you can print out and take with you to navigate along the route, although there are usually so many volunteers along the route to help you find your way and make sure you’re okay, you don't even need them.

The running, snack and first aid stops along the way help ease your mind about remembering everything you need to take with you. The volunteers cheer you on, ask how you’re doing and will assist you if ever you needed to turn back or were hurt. Whether a seasoned marathoner or a novice like me, everyone is so welcoming and interested in what and how you’re doing. This past weekend I met a nice woman from Quincy who I ran with the last few miles as we chatted and cheered each other on (especially as we ran single file along Morrissey Blvd – not the safest street in Boston to be on foot).

My goals for this week are to get my running sneaks re-evaluated and possible have some arch supports put it, as I am suffering a bit from some shin soreness. Icing and stretching this week will also be a priority. I will be away in VT this weekend with my fiancé’s family, and will be doing my long run up there. I am looking forward to the change in scenery.

Icy Run – Elise

2011-02-15T13:25:00.001-05:00

So my 17-mile run was not so bad. I felt physically good after the run and didn't have too many points at which I wanted to quit. I ran the loop on the Charles River from the Science Museum bridge to the Watertown bridge. It was a nice loop but I will say it was incredibly icy. At times I just had to get onto the closest street and run because the path was a sheet of ice. It slowed my time down so I feel like I didn't get an accurate read on my pace. I am hoping in three weeks when I have my 20-mile run it will be better conditions. I also practiced my water and snack amounts on this run. It seems about every 45 minutes a sip or two of water and a Gu energy gel seem to be just the trick.

Expert Advice: Run Relaxed

2011-02-11T08:57:00.001-05:00

Many distance runners, especially novices, complain of shoulder/neck pain and/or headaches as distances exceed 10 miles. Part of the problem can be how you carry your frame while running. Everyone has a different style, take a look around. Some people run on their toes, others on their heels. Some swing their arms and rotate their trunk, while others hold fairly still. However you run, don't try to make any major changes at this point in your training, if it’s working for you then go with it. There are some small suggestions that can help you stay relaxed, stay focused and take your mind off some of those negative thoughts that creep into your head.

Potato Chip Pinch: Imagine you are running while holding a potato chip between your thumb and middle finger. Some people tend to make a tight fist while running, and then the tension creeps up your arms and into your shoulders and neck. Keeping relaxed hands, will help you keep the arms loose and relaxed.

Shoulders Down: Check yourself; especially if you’re doing an outside run and its cold…don't we live in New England? Are your shoulders hunched up around your ears with your head forward? Try to relax your shoulders back and down, so that your arms are again light. This is where the majority of the neck soreness comes in – the upper trapezius. That’s the muscle on either side of your neck that connects the neck and shoulders…lots of tension here typically!

Jell-O Jaw: Again, especially in the cold weather, many people end up clenching their teeth and keep a very tight jaw. Try holding your tongue on the roof of your mouth and let your jaw be loose and wiggly…like Jell-O!

Pick something to regularly remind you to think about your hands, shoulders and jaw. Maybe every mile or so, every new song, every time you drink some water, have a Swedish fish, etc. Frequently check in. Focus on your tension state and that will also help you keep your mind focused while knocking down those miles. Good luck this weekend!

Hitting the Wall – Jenna

2011-02-09T13:57:00.000-05:00

It is amazing how 10 miles seemed far, and now onto 14+ miles, things are getting easier as the miles fly by. Typically things are going well. I'm staying healthy and making sure I am eating and drinking enough so I don't get run down. It is also getting easier to decline late night plans Saturday night, and hit the hay early so I have plenty of energy for my long runs on Sunday mornings. However, I learned the hard way this past weekend, upon mile 11 of 14, what "hitting the wall" really feels like. I haven't been good about bringing Swedish fish, my running food of choice, with me, and although I wasn't mentally tired, I felt like I just couldn't stay moving. I felt totally fatigued, like my legs were made out of lead, which had me walk/jogging the last three miles, and eventually calling it quits a bit short of 14. I won't make this mistake again! My goal this week is to try the "goo" and see how I like that. All in all, training is going well and what is keeping me on track is the fact that every mile accomplished will make those 26.2 miles easier come April 18!

Battle in My Mind – Jacqui

2011-02-09T08:53:00.000-05:00

I just completed week four of 14 weeks of training. The mileage is really beginning to add up as my training plan ramps up. This week alone I ran 22 miles. I am proud to report that I hit a “cool” first milestone: my short run was six miles this week, the same distance of my long run in week one! It is pretty hard to believe that I could think of a six mile run as short, but this shows how quickly things are progressing.

Thankfully, my body seems to be taking the abuse in stride (bad pun I know). Once I purchased real running shoes and began a more rigorous stretching program, my pains seemed to fade away.

Though I have put in a lot of mileage to date, I still have not found that elusive runner’s high. On my 10-mile long run this week, the miles seemed to pass slower and slower – though I did keep the same pace. I am beginning to see that the true battle is going to be in my mind, not my body. Surprisingly my legs are able to keep moving without much protest. It is the mental aspect of willing them to do so that is challenging.

I have experimented a little in meditation running and that really helps me pass the miles the best. In this practice, I think of nothing and look at a white brick wall while running on the treadmill (still no outside training due to the weather). If my mind wanders to a thought, then I just refocus again on nothingness. Since I have never been one to meditate, this is not easy for me and is taking some practice. So for the time being, I switch around from watching a show on TV, to listening to music on my iPod, to meditative running. This week I also plan to dabble in some audiobooks that I downloaded. I just need to find something to get my mind off the mileage marker and I think I will be all set!

Fuel Trial Run – Todd

2011-02-08T14:03:00.001-05:00

The snowstorm last week kept me from running again until the long run that ended week six. I wanted to try something different with nutrition and hydration in an attempt to feel better for runs longer than nine miles. For a future long run I will try some high-tech sports bars and gels but first I wanted to try something simple. I bought CVS Brand Candy Orange Slices for 99 cents. There were 23 in the bag. I ate a couple every mile and drank three Honest Kids Berry Berry Good Lemonades, one every four miles. All of that totaled to about 1100 calories and 20 ounces. I ran 15 miles, of which the first 13 felt great. I couldn’t taste anything sweet for the rest of the day. I ran back and forth on Comm Ave between Walnut Street and the Mass Pike with a hundred or so other runners training for the Marathon. After my run I took my kids to the Museum of Science where we had lunch, watched an Imax Film about the Great Lakes and wandered around the exhibit halls. This morning I saw only one other runner while running faster than my normal pace for three miles through slush.

Getting Ready for 17 – Elise

2011-02-07T15:16:00.001-05:00

Not much to update from my last blog. I ran my longer weekend run (six miles) on Friday of this past week because I was taking a short trip to New York City. This was my first time in New York City and I think the amount of walking I did made up for not taking any runs. This coming weekend I will be doing a 17-mile run. I think I have decided on doing the Charles River Loop, from St. Auburn's bridge to the Science Museum bridge. My audio book is getting really good so it is keeping me motivated to run, since I only allow myself to listen while I'm running.

Expert Advice: Shoe Wear and Foot Problems

2011-02-04T10:07:00.000-05:00

Bruised toe nails? Get ready for them to fall off. The first two toes are particularly prone to bruising and can be related to shoes being even a 1/2 size too small. I'd make sure you keep your toe nails trimmed short and look into getting a slightly larger pair of shoes. Given that we have 2 1/2 months until the Marathon, you have plenty of time to break in a new pair. Actually, this is the perfect time to get new ones…because come race day, your current shoes will be 2 1/2 months older and have at least 320 more miles on them! Can you believe it?

It is recommended that you replace running shoes every four to six months or 400 miles, depending on body weight and your distance, frequency, etc. I'd suggest buying two pairs of the same shoe now, and alternate them with each run you do. This way, come race day, they're not worn out (only 120 miles each) but they're both broken nicely.

Basically, running shoes come in one of three basic styles: cushioned, stability and motion control. Cushioned shoes are typically recommended for runners with a neutral or high arch who just need cushioning and a shoe that lets their foot move naturally. On the other end of the spectrum are motion control shoes that have a reinforced arch with high density foam built into the arch. These shoes are better for people with collapsed arches/flat feet and will help to control overpronation (collapse of the arch during running). Stability shoes are a blend of motion control and cushioning for those that might be mild overpronators, but want more cushioning/less support.

If your current shoes are working for you, then don't rock the boat, stick with what works. If you're not sure, then visit one of the many great running specialty stores in the area or feel free to contact me. They'll be able to evaluate your foot type and gait pattern and make some recommendations. Bottom line, it should be comfortable! Run easy!

Learning about Hydration - Todd

2011-02-02T09:50:00.001-05:00

I ended week five of my training with an 11-mile run on Saturday. I went up and down Commonwealth Avenue between the Fire Station and Boston College. My older kids were in a science class all morning, so I played Cars (the movie) with my youngest son for two hours in the morning. After a small lunch I started my run. I rehydrated with “Honest Kids” juice pouches, the same ones my kids drink at school. I drank one every four miles. The first nine miles were great and the last two were miserable. I hope I can do something different with my nutrition and rehydration next week. On Sunday the kids and I went sledding and my legs didn’t feel too bad climbing up the hills. I started week six training today before the snowstorm. Some of my friends are becoming my unofficial coaches with recommendations for specialized compression garments and speed work. I haven’t decided to buy the fancy pants, but I did run two of my four miles today at a pace of eight min/mile, over one min faster than my regular pace.

Week 3 of 14 – Jacqui

2011-02-02T09:49:00.000-05:00

My body and my treadmill are beginning to feel the effects of all the mileage that has been adding up: 52 miles to date! I have watched my treadmill calorie counter reach 999 – only to then start over at zero! I have also discovered that my treadmill has its own thoughts about marathon running. It apparently thinks no human should run for prolonged periods, as it stops when the clock goes over 99 minutes. This was not a fun fact to discover. As I was nearing the end of the longest run of my life (nine miles), suddenly the treadmill stopped! I suppose I am lucky that I didn’t fall and hurt myself, but I wasn’t thinking about how “lucky” I was at the time.

I am observing the effect running is having on my body. I have developed a bruised toe, which probably means a good pair of running shoes is in order. I fear breaking in a new pair of shoes, but at this point I think either the shoes go or the toenail goes. And after a long run the other day, I also had soreness under my arms. Who would ever think one could experience chaffing there? I have also begun to develop stiffening and tightness down my left leg. I was thankfully able to easily identify the area of concern and initiate a relieving stretching regimen. Though these problems all seem easily fixable, they have opened my eyes to the demands I am asking of my body.

Since I’m burning so many calories on long runs, I am beginning to wonder about other aspects of the marathon – like hydration, nutrition and digestion. I looked for a couple of books on the logistics of running a marathon. There are actually many of them out there. Believe it or not, there is even a Marathon Training for Dummies book! Since I sometimes feel totally clueless about what I have gotten myself into, I figured that was a good book for me. Hopefully next week, I will be a whole lot more informed and slightly more experienced!

First Long Run – Elise

2011-01-31T12:05:00.001-05:00

So the weekend before this last one I did my first of the longer build up runs. Normally I am doing six to seven miles on one weekend day but this run was 14 miles and of course it ended up being one the coldest days of the winter. I was nervous about being too cold so I quadruple layered on top and double layered on bottom. I also wore a hat, neck gator and gloves. I once was told by someone that when running you can dress for weather ten degrees higher than what it really is outside. I tried that and it actually seemed to work. My only physical complaint from the cold after the run was a sore nose from rubbing it because it kept dripping. The run itself wasn't that bad. I brought a water bottle with me and tried to work on taking sips every once in a while. I ran with a great audio book, The Help, which kept me from getting bored. All and all it was a good first longer run.

Expert Advice: Training Tips

2011-01-31T09:01:00.000-05:00

My name is Garth Savidge. I am a Physical Therapist at Newton-Wellesley and have been practicing for 10 years. I work in outpatient orthopaedics and have worked in sports medicine with a focus on running injuries. I have run the Boston Marathon three times, and have several 1/2 marathons, 10Ks and shorter races under my belt. Now my running is primarily a way to stay healthy, so I'm down to three times a week but I still enjoy it. I will be posting tips and advice to address some of concerns that come up during marathon training. To kick us off, I thought I'd address some of the things I read in the posts from our Hospital bloggers.

Training Schedule: For first-time runners especially, but really for everyone, this is incredibly important. If you don't put the time in, you'll have a harder time come race day: increased risk for injuries, less comfortable and ultimately less fun! This is what it’s about after all! So pick a training program and stick to it – some variation of three shorter runs during the week, a day off before your long run and a long run on the weekend. Cross training is also important…bike, swim, sports, shoveling snow!

Hydration: Your body needs both water and fuel to keep you from the not so pleasant BONK! You don't want to hit that wall, so get this part right. Volunteers hand out water/Gatorade and energy gels, so if you plan to utilize these, get used to them now. I had a friend that did not train with water or gels, but on Marathon day he stopped at every water stop. His body didn't respond well. Train how you will run. For long runs, either use a water/fuel belt or have someone meet you at regular water stops, hide a water bottle in bushes, etc. Hydrate with small amounts regularly, but don't over do it. Getting rid of the water after you drink it can also be a problem!

Boredom: Distance running is a mental challenge. If you put the miles in, and can avoid injuries, then the rest is finding the time and not letting yourself get inside your head. This is a killer. So include…workout mixes for your iPod, audio books, I like the dictation idea. If at all possible, try to do your long runs with at least one other person or a group. This isn’t for everyone, but you'd be surprised how fast the time flies. Good conversations, jokes, commiserating, training tips, etc. Lots of good mind game/association games to play as well.

Bottom line, keep your mind away from negative thoughts like how long the run is, anxiety about whether or not you can do it, how tired you are, it’s raining, snowing, there's a big hill in front of you, your foot hurts, your legs are sore, you're hungry, need a bathroom, can't go to the bathroom, its 2 degrees below zero…whatever. This is all irrelevant! Keep your mind away from these thoughts and you'll be able to do it. The personal satisfaction you'll feel each week you complete the long run and then on race day will overcome all these negative feelings. And for you first time marathoners – each long run is a new personal best in distance! So stick with your schedule and before you know it you'll have run an 18-mile run and be amazed at how 12 weeks earlier you were nervous about running 6! Good luck runners!

First Timer – Todd

2011-01-27T11:19:00.000-05:00

Hello! My name is Todd Abbott and I am going to run the 115th Boston Marathon to raise money for Integrative Support Services at the Vernon Cancer Center at Newton-Wellesley Hospital. This will be both my first marathon and my first blog. I will start off with an introduction to who I am and how I have gotten here. On future entries, along with detailing my marathon thoughts and concerns, I will also expound on each of these items.

It all started on December 19, 1969. I was born in Fort Defiance, AZ; however, I was raised in Boise, Idaho where I lived until going to college. I attended Hope College in Michigan followed by the University of Washington School of Medicine. Medical school was paid for by the US Air Force, and after graduation I was assigned to bases in Virginia, Montana and Germany. I worked as a flight surgeon, and cared for aircrews and their families, and participated in a number of unique activities. I then completed a residency in pathology and a fellowship in cytopathology at the University of Virginia. I moved to Newton in the summer of 2007 to work as a staff pathologist at Newton-Wellesley. I have been married for 12 years and we have three children aged 4, 7 and 9. Right now, my hobbies primarily have everything to do with having a family. We participate in the sports of every season and enjoy bicycling, hiking and fishing.

I have been running for exercise since my senior year in college; however, it has usually been only a few miles a day. I have run in a handful of 5k races and in one 12-member team event: the Mount Rainier to the Pacific Relay. I created my own training plan by looking at a number of other 16 to 18-week plans for first-time marathoners. The plan has runs on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with long runs on Saturday. I have at least three weekends of snowboarding built in, which I am counting in as “cross-training.” Training takes away time I would have otherwise spent with my family: helping the kids get ready for school during the week and playtime during the long Saturday runs.

My Chance to Run Boston – Elise

2011-01-25T13:24:00.002-05:00

I have been running since right after high school. All through high school I did volleyball, basketball and water polo so I never had the time or need to run after practices and games. After high school I started running to keep myself in shape and ended up really enjoying it. I ran the Chicago Marathon in 2008. After that one, I told myself that the only two other marathons I would ever be in were the Boston Marathon and the original one in Marathon, Greece. When I started my job here in July 2010, I found out that you could win a bib number through the Hospital so I thought that this would be my chance.

I am going to use the Jeff Galloway method for my training. It is a good method for people who work full time. You do shorter distances during the week and then longer ones on weekends. It’s funny, I am pretty good at working out regularly but normally if I don't feel like working out one day I just give myself a break. But now it seems like it is a job. I can't slack off or my training will be off. I think most people are concerned about Heartbreak Hill. Luckily I live right by it so I get to train on it pretty regularly. I hope that helps when it comes to race day!

Productive Long Runs – Jacqui

2011-01-24T10:24:00.000-05:00

I am now in week two of my 14-week training for the Boston Marathon. I finally did my first “long” run last Saturday after putting it off the whole day. I was a little anxious about doubling my run distance to six miles, but I got through it just fine. My training schedule has me booked for a rest day the day after a long run, which was much needed and appreciated. I am trying to keep my same turtle pace so that I can make it through the longer runs without burning out.

I am beginning to realize that running for extended periods can get a little tedious though. In the past when I have done my usual workout, I go really hard for 30-40 minutes and have no time nor energy to get bored. But now I am going for distance, not speed. Since I am trying to conserve energy and pace myself, my mind tends to wander and I start to think about when the run will be over so I can get such-n-such done. In this age of multi-tasking, I have a hard time not being “productive” during my runs. I know this sounds crazy when I see it on paper, that training for a marathon is not productive enough for me, none-the less it is what is going through my mind over and over again while running. It reminds me of when I was breastfeeding my son and had to pump at work. I would be at my desk with both hands occupied with pumping, while a huge pile of charts and paperwork loomed in front of me. I would keep trying to hold both pumps with one hand to get a form completed or an e-mail sent and would always end up with drops of spilled milk on my clothes! Later when I would share this with other breastfeeding moms, we all came to the conclusion that just maybe a forced 20 minutes of brain downtime was not such a bad thing after all. But an hour or two or more of inner reflection? I am not sure that I have enough material in my head for that much self thought. Maybe an audio book could help. I also think a better workout mix is in order, one with all fast tempo stuff to keep me moving. And if I get really antsy while I am training, I could always get a dictation device and write a famous book – or at least put together a grocery list or even write this blog.

All of this leads me to wonder if the Boston Marathon has a ban on headphone use during the race? Thankfully this is not the case, though headphone use is discouraged, it is not banned. Whew, I am not sure that I could do this without my iPod!

My First Marathon – Jenna

2011-01-24T10:23:00.000-05:00

My name is Jenna Zaffini and I am a Clinical Exercise Physiologist at Newton-Wellesley on 3N in Cardiology. The Boston Marathon 2011 will be my first marathon! I have run a few half marathons, 10Ks and other smaller races over the past seven years, when I began running, and decided now that college is behind me, I have more time to dedicate to hitting the pavement. I began running in college as a way to stay in shape and relieve stress, and am now quite addicted.

As a native Bostonian, I chose the Boston Marathon as my first 26.2 miler because the course runs by my apartment in the Back Bay, and after volunteering with the John Hancock Elite Athletes for a few years, I have developed a great appreciation for the race and those who have conquered it. During the week, I will be doing my shorter to moderate length runs in and around Boston with friends who are also running the marathon, and will be doing my long runs on Sundays with the L Street running club, who I have recently joined. Even just among these first few weeks, I can tell that I am going to have to adjust my evenings not only to allot for more time to run, but also sleep and relax, things I am sure I will come to appreciate more and more as training progresses.

The thing I am most concerned about running the marathon is making sure I am keeping up with my health as mileage progress, including making sure I am hydrating properly, sleeping enough and relaxing enough as to not get warn down. Although the weather has proved challenging so far, I am excited for the next few months, increasing my mileage, and conquering one of the toughest marathons courses in the country.

My Bucket List – Jacqui

2011-01-24T10:22:00.000-05:00

I “won the lottery” to run in the Boston Marathon this year. I have very mixed feelings about this, as I have really grown to dislike running over the last 10 to 20 years. I had always been an athlete who was made to run as a punishment or to train for a season, but never to run as the actual sport. After multiple sports in both high school and college, I quickly abandoned running once other exercise modes were introduced to the market. First I found the Stairmaster, then the as-seen-on-TV walker, next was the elliptical and my latest love has been for wii active. I can honestly say that I have not actually gone running for any real distance for more than 10 years. Though I do exercise vigorously on a regular basis, I have been avoiding running as it reminds me too much of prior years of grueling double sessions in the unrelenting harsh sun.

Why then do you ask did I put my name in the hat for the Boston Marathon seat? Excellent question, one that I am still asking myself as I write this. Though I have always hated to run, I have also always secretly wished that I loved to run. I want to take back my ill feelings toward running and rediscover them, maybe even feel that runner’s high that everyone talks about. Running a marathon ONCE is also on my bucket list of things to do before I die, like jumping out of an airplane, skiing the Alps or going to Costa Rica to see the baby turtles trek across the beach. Why my bucket list was never updated once I discovered that I actually really hate and dread running, I’ll never know. But here I am considering running a marathon in 14 weeks. I quickly called my lifetime friend who has run the Boston Marathon to get her input. She thinks it is amazing that I would get a chance to run in the Boston Marathon as a first timer. What a great honor this opportunity is for sure, but am I up to it? I then did some Web research to see if it is even possible for a non-runner athlete to train for a marathon in 14 weeks. After much research, I have concluded that it is possible if my goal is not for a particular run time, but rather a goal of finishing the marathon. So I sat down with my husband to outline a plan for the next 14 weeks. Thankfully my husband has agreed to watch our 15 month old on the one day a week that I do my long runs. I am also borrowing a jogging stroller from my sister as I am sure I will need to do the shorter runs with my little boy in tow.

The long runs start out at six mile runs but will go up to 18-mile runs over the course of the next 14 weeks. Since I am not very fast, the long runs will take many hours. I then ended the day with my first training session – a three-mile run. I chose to run on the treadmill to start to learn about pacing myself. I set the treadmill on a very minimal incline and a speed of a 12-minute mile and started the run. I was thankfully able to finish without difficulty, but am very anxious about the first six-mile run.

It Was All Worth It! – Maureen

2010-04-23T13:35:00.000-04:00

YAY, I did it!!!! I can now say that I ran (and finished!) the Boston Marathon!!! The whole day was amazing and was one of the best experiences ever. It was also one of the toughest things I've ever mentally and physically put myself through but I can honestly say it was all worth it.

I started getting a sore throat the Saturday before the marathon... oh no! There was absolutely no way sickness was going to keep me from running so I did everything I could to prevent it from getting worse. I still wasn't 100% the day of but felt much better. I had trouble getting to bed early enough Sunday night but managed to get in about 7 hours of sleep. Annie and I made arrangements to meet at the bus pickup along the Common at 7:00 am Monday morning. I was glad we decided to take the bus to Hopkinton instead of being dropped off.... it was all part of the experience! I had a lot of nervous excitement running through me so it was nice to have someone else from Newton-Wellesley to talk to on the ride down. We thought we'd have so much time to spare at Athlete's Village but time flew by pretty fast. We hit the porto-potties, ate our bagels, met up with some of the other runners at the Newton-Wellesley tent, I got "GO MOE" written on my arms, we shed our layers of clothing and we were off to the start!

Even though I trained with an iPod, I decided not to run the marathon with one so that I could feed off the crowds (and, of course, I also fed off my packet of jelly bellies!). I decided I wanted to make a concerted effort to notice each mile marker sign, as well as whenever we would enter a new town. I am very familiar with the entire route and I kept thinking how crazy it was that I was actually running it! The first 5 miles or so felt pretty good. I was consciously trying to keep an even, steady pace and not go too fast. I saw family around mile 5 in Ashland with their Go Moe and Newton-Wellesley signs (also where my uncle jumped in to keep me company) and it was exciting to see them. Soon after, I ran past my first college apartment in Framingham (quite a different scene from the Marathon Day parties we used to throw!) and saw friends on the balcony of La Cantina restaurant with more "Go Moe" signs! Around mile 6, my left knee started talking to me so I popped a few Advil and tried to focus on other body parts that were NOT bothering me. "Focus on the glutes" became the mantra I would continuously repeat for the duration of the marathon.

There were parts of the route in Natick and Wellesley that were very quiet because there weren't many spectators, making it easier to notice the aches and pains that were starting to sink in. My pace stayed pretty even though.... I know this because I broke down my splits at each 5K mark after I got my results (and just saw that Sabrina calculated hers as well, love it!). I also know exactly where my pace started to significantly slow... those Newton hills! BUT, before I made it there I was anxiously waiting to run by Newton-Wellesley. I knew my brother and sister-in-law would be there, along with my close friend Kendra (who was waiting to run the last 9.2 miles with me), and familiar faces of the Hospital! I stopped quickly for a few pics and continued running.

I was now on the part of the route that I had actually trained on a few times, which I was happy I did because I liked knowing when to expect with the hills... however I had never run them 18 miles into a run! I didn't think they were so bad during training but I was singing a different tune on Monday. However, it was about this point that I realized I had yet to stop and walk, something I thought for sure I'd have to because of my knee and hip. There is absolutely nothing wrong with walking during a marathon but now that I was only 8 miles away from the finish, I wanted so bad to finish having run the whole thing. My legs felt like lead going up each of the three hills but there was no way I was going to stop running. It was also from this point on that the crowds were extremely helpful in getting me to put one foot in front of the other. One memorable part of the route was at the top of Heartbreak Hill... there was a band playing, signs that read "You made it to the top of Heartbreak!" and people yelling words of encouragement... what a sigh of relief that part was over!

It was somewhere between the top of Heartbreak and the turn onto Beacon Street that Kendra started to play a game with me... it all started when we noticed a girl ahead of us running in a tutu. Kendra yelled out, "Moe! She's running in a tutu!! You're not gonna let a girl in a tutu beat you in a race... are you??" Motivation at its finest. The fire was lit and we breezed past her. Kendra continued to find people for me to pick off one by one, including blue-fanny-pack-guy, the girl wearing head-to-toe black ("Her pace is good... but yours is better!!"), and others. It was a great distraction from my achy joints.

I saw a few more friends at various points on Beacon Street, which helped keep me going, but my hip, knee and pinky toes were starting to give me more and more discomfort with each mile. The last two to three miles took every ounce of mental strength I had to keep going and not stop. My uncle wished me luck with about a mile to go and went ahead of us, and Kendra and I proceeded to run the longest mile I have ever run in my life. Although I was still aware of the crowds, I was no longer high-fiving people and taking it all in... I had to put all my efforts into just crossing the finish line. And I did! 4 hours, 29 minutes, and 29 seconds after starting. Talk about a sense of accomplishment! I was definitely feeling a little loopy once I finished though. I didn't need medical attention and I don't think I was dehydrated, but it took about a half hour before I stopped feeling weird. I knew not to sit down right away so I kept walking, got my medal and some vitamin water, met my friends and family and celebrated! I started craving an ice cold beer (this is when I realized I was myself again) so we all went and grabbed lunch together on Newbury Street. It was a perfect way to end the perfect Marathon Monday!

Although it took me a few days to walk down stairs without looking ridiculous (and whatever virus I started to get prior to Monday has progressively worsened since then), overall I feel great for having run my first marathon. And though it won't be anytime soon, I would absolutely do another one to try and better my time... especially now that I know what I need to do to minimize/eliminate the injuries I had during training. I want to give a HUGE thank you to everyone who encouraged me and wished me well throughout this experience. And of course, thank you to Newton-Wellesley for giving me this opportunity!

Opportunity of a Lifetime – Annie

2010-04-23T13:25:00.000-04:00

How long does the runner's high last? I'm not quite sure, but I am definitely still feeling it! My Marathon weekend started off with a trip to the Expo on Saturday morning, where I began to soak in the atmosphere and energy, and got lots of free loot from the many vendors. My favorite item was the beautiful aqua Marathon jacket, which I think I wore for several days straight, only taking it off to actually run the race! As many had told me, the night before the night before the Marathon is the critical time to get lots of rest, so my sister Caitie came in after dinner, we plotted strategy a little, then I headed to bed early. After a good 9 to 10 hours of rest, I started Sunday off with a light jog of about two miles around my neighborhood, to make sure my legs still worked after tapering for a few weeks! A solid breakfast and lots of relaxation were the main items of the day, and logistics were ironed out for the cheering squad. We headed off to the Pre-Race Pasta Dinner at Boston City Hall around 7:00 pm, with me decked out in my jacket, of course, and giddy with excitement. The dinner was great, though a bit overwhelming with many people and so much going on, but the mac and cheese was heavenly and it was fun to be a part of the festivities.

Marathon Day - I was up a little before 6:00 am, outfitted with my snazzy Newton-Wellesley singlet (ANNIE emblazoned across the front with athletic tape). After making sure we had all our gear, Caitie and I headed out to the T and were off to Park Street and the school buses to Hopkinton. I met up with Newton-Wellesley runner Maureen Lydon there, and we rode the bus together, sharing our excitement and getting psyched up. What a beautiful day it was for running! Just perfect - I like that coolness to the air and the sun periodically broken by clouds. We met up with Donna Dunn at the Newton-Wellesley Tent, and soon set off to the starting line. Our bib numbers had us way in the back, and it took a while to cross the starting line, but soon we were shuffling off to begin the race. I liked having the crowded field at the beginning, as it helped keep the pace under control; I was wary of starting off too fast and then burning out too soon! The crowd was amazing throughout the small towns at the beginning, with such pride for the race and their role in it, and palpable support and excitement for all the runners. I was so glad I had my name on my shirt! It felt like everyone knew me, and was pulling for me. Maureen and I ran together for about 5 or 6 miles, then I saw that I was about 4 minutes ahead of my pace (according to the awesome bracelet my sister made for me) and I pulled back a little, feeling strong and wanting to conserve. There was a bar right on the course that was in full-on tailgating mode, and then the scoreboard showing the (dismal) score of the Sox game.

I saw my family and friends first in Framingham, by the train depot - a wide and flat stretch just perfect for cheering! One of my favorite moments came shortly thereafter then the conductor of the commuter rail leaned on the horn for a long time as he drove by, powering the runners on, energizing us. Also in Framingham I was almost lured off the course by the tantalizing aroma of burgers on the grill…dangerous! I felt strong through Wellesley, passing a good amount of people but also trying to keep my pace consistent and not let my excitement speed me up. I was in front of a few men dressed as Elvis for a while, which provided some entertaining comments from the crowd! The "wall of sound" at Wellesley College was fantastic - those girls can really holler! Several of the gentlemen around me took advantage of the kisses being handed out ("Oh boy, now my heart-rate monitor is all out of whack!"). I started to lose a little ground on my pace a little after the half mark, miles 14-15, but the support in Wellesley Center powered me through to Newton-Wellesley, where I was met with friends, family and coworkers, and felt like a rockstar! I stopped to pose for some pics, and it really provided the surge of energy I needed at that point! My sister jumped in with me for a few minutes, holding a "Go Annie! That's my sister!" sign, riling up the crowd for me, which was pretty sweet! On to the Newton Hills - hard, but I had trained on them, so felt comfortable and knew what I was in for. I gritted my teeth as I turned onto Comm Ave, and began to power up. The crowd support ratcheted up a few notches, and the sun came out, and I dug in. I had a moment of delirium as I crested the second hill, and thought it was Heartbreak Hill, only to realize it was just the little hill before - oops! I grabbed a luscious orange slice and some extra high fives and actually passed quite a few people on my way to the top! No walking for me! Again, the crowd support here was just awesome.

On the back side of the hills, I tried to relax and lengthen my stride, using gravity to my advantage, but felt a little tapped out. I knew I had lost the edge on my pace and was now a few minutes behind. The BC kids were cheering like maniacs at that point though, which helped a lot, as did a fellow runner ("Hey Lightning, you can do it! You've got this!" - in reference to the lightning bolts on my shoulders), and then my friend Alicia, who leapt out of the crowd and ran a little with me, egging me on! Just after that, in Cleveland Circle, my sister jumped in with me for the last four miles. The rockstar feeling truly kicked in here. What a feeling to hear so many people screaming your name, so excited for you! It really is a rush. Caitie had water for me and ran alongside, trying to distract me a little from my obvious fatigue. More high fives, though some felt like they would knock me over! We pressed on. I saw my a cappella singing group friends right after Mile 24, who enveloped me in a shrieks and hugs, and sent me back on my way, where I soon saw Co-Fellow Andy Wurtzel cheering his heart out further down Beacon!

Even more rockstar feeling at Kenmore: chants of my name, impromptu songs starring "Annie" (of both "the sun'll come out tomorrow" and totally improvised varieties), fist pumps and high fives, general euphoric waves of support. I was torn with the conflicted feeling of "I want this to last forever" and "I want this to end NOW." I was really tired and the balls of my feet felt like they were directly pushing through the bottoms of my shoes to the pavement. However, I was able to still pass people, which provided a great competitive boost! Turned on to Hereford, then Boylston, then the sweet sight of the finish line. Rockstar-style, I grinned like crazy, waved to the crowd, and kicked it into gear for what we in my family like to call the "Huppert finish," passing more people in the last dozen yards and surged across the finish line!!! "Anne Huppert, from Cambridge!" I did it!

Then mylar blanket, water, medal, banana, potato chips, baggage pickup, dazedly wandering over to the Family Meeting Area to, you guessed it, meet my family. The sun was angling through the buildings so beautifully, making all of us runners look like angels in our silver capes. Pictures, hugs, general excitement and stories! We headed to Legal Seafoods for a jubilant post-race meal, taking our time to digest the day as well as the food, and also having the amazing opportunity to reconnect with old dear family friends who were all in town from Wisconsin for the Marathon! We couldn't have planned it to work out this well - just an amazing, amazing day all around.

I am so grateful to Newton-Wellesley for the opportunity to run - truly the opportunity of a lifetime. Also thankful to my family and friends, and all those energetic and heartfelt supporters who screamed my name from Hopkinton to the Finish - I couldn't have done it without you! My official time - 4:38:15. A full 31 minutes faster than my first Marathon time in Chicago! I'll take it.

We Did It! – Tom and Sylvie

2010-04-20T13:09:00.000-04:00

Thank you to everyone for your support, especially yesterday. I've wanted to run the Boston Marathon for most of my adult life but something always held me back. This year, I'm grateful for the opportunity and that I finally committed to it. It's been a rewarding experience, something I'll always remember. I also remembered that I was representing an important cause, the Vernon Cancer Center. For those who contributed to the Center, supporting the Marathon Team, thank you so much.

Tom: 3:54, Sylvie 4:00

We slept fitfully Sunday night, awaking at 5:45. I found a charter bus leaving from Park Plaza at 7:30 so we drove to the Clarendon St. Garage. The bus was worth the price – bathroom and parking at the High School lot so we had minimal wait time outside. Still, the morning was anything but relaxing. We brought a paper but were unable to read. We had nervous conversations with others on the bus (all veteran marathoners so I stayed quiet). I visited the two Newton-Wellesley medical tents at the Village – good for pre-race support. I had first marathon jitters so I never ate the extra banana and bagel I'd brought on the bus. I thought (and the bus facilities seem to confirm) that I was drinking enough before the race. Our corral was 26 (of 27 so we were in the back and it took 15 minutes to reach the starting line.

It's so different from my long training runs, when I could just leave the house rested, relaxed and quickly settle into a pace. There were all kinds of runners/walkers in the back. I thought that after four to five miles, the pack would spread out but that didn't happen until Wellesley, so I was using more energy than I'd hoped. The spectators in the early segment were entertaining – bars and restaurants packed with people celebrating and a guy playing the Jimi Hendrix version of the National Anthem were fun.
My dream was to hit 3:45, which is my Boston Marathon qualifying time. After 10 miles, it was a long shot, and by Wellesley, I decided that sub-4:00 was realistic, especially after suffering side cramps and nausea on the long descent into Newton. I tried to drink enough, but as you'll see later, I failed. I knew there were friends waiting at the Quebrada Bakery in Wellesley but in spite of running on that side and looking I never saw the sign and people – incredibly hard to pick out faces in the crowds.

I passed the Hospital with a plan to be conservative on the hills and save energy for the last four to five miles. Paul Satwicz ran a few paces with me – thanks for the encouragement! Sylvie was right – the hills are not so bad, it's the prolonged descent after the hills that kills your legs. Aerobically, I felt fine (too dry, I now recognize) but my legs were fading. I missed a couple of water stations the last few miles (or were they not there?) and knew I was in trouble. The underpass just before turning onto Commonwealth Ave. was particularly cruel. Runners around me cheered when we turned onto Bolyston and saw the finish – I had to focus on the runner in front to maintain my stride and get home. But I did finish! And I didn't walk even through the water stations. I was so afraid that if I stopped once, the second and third stops would be too tempting.

The most difficult part was the post race chute, waiting for water, blankets, food and medal. I saw stars twice and turned down requests for assistance. No way was I going to the Medical tents. I sat by the luggage buses, waiting for Sylvie, drank and ate and eventually felt better. Amazingly, my jaw was too weak to chew a power bar and my mouth too dry to swallow. Thank goodness for bananas. I clearly did not drink enough during the race, as my post race experience demonstrated. Happily, after liters of Gatorade, water and beer, my kidneys were working by 7:00 pm.

Sylvie was close behind at 4:00, in spite of not running for 10 days with a sore leg. She bested her 2011 Boston qualifying time by 15 minutes and is definitely the marathoner in our family. I learned some lessons from my first experience. Don't know that I'll ever apply them again, as long as temporary insanity doesn't strike. For now, I plan to enjoy the accomplishment and recovery. Thanks to all who have been incredibly supportive during the training and race. I can't possible include all your names without forgetting someone important: Newton-Wellesley Charitable Foundation, Newton-Wellesley Physical Therapy, Shipley Fitness Center and many many colleagues and friends. It's been a wonderful experience; one I'll always remember.

Indescribable – Sabrina

2010-04-20T10:25:00.000-04:00

Because I am a geek, I got up this morning and calculated my splits from the BAA site. Here they are:

5k 11:53 pace (dusted by just about everyone, including a hamburger and French fries)
10k 12:06 pace (bathroom stop!)
15k 11:54 pace (and another bathroom stop!)
20k 12:15 pace (kissed a boy at Wellesley College)
Half Marathon 12:15 pace (just fifteen seconds behind goal!)
25k 12:25 pace (walked for 1-2 minutes so I could appear "fresh" at Newton-Wellesley)
30k 12:37 pace (starting up Heartbreak Hill, downshifting)
35k 12:53 pace (what a frakkin' hill! difficult recovery on downhill)
40k 12:58 pace (hurting but keeping the pace)
26.2 13:00 overall marathon pace (I did it!)
5:40:33

My marathon journey began on about January 27 when I found out I had won a number for the Boston Marathon at work. I ran five miles that day on my treadmill at a 10:22 pace. Up till then I had run a total of nine miles in 2010; and had only run a handful of times since ski season started. My "real" running days ended in 2002 when I fractured my spine while carrying firewood down some steps after a frigid January evening run. I just never got back into it after that, but always maintained a level of fitness such that I could go out for a five mile jog comfortably, generally jogging 10 to 20 miles a week as cross training for hiking/skiing/cycling.

I picked a Hal Higdon Intermediate Marathon training plan and stuck to it religiously until I got to week eight, then I really couldn't keep up with the weekly mileage entirely and maxed out at a 42-mile week. I had what turns out was/is a piriformis pull in my left glute, and that inflamed my sciatic nerve. I started feeling the pain around week four to five, when I was kicking out some fast miles on the treadmill -- at that time I was thinking (ha ha) that I could run a 4.5 hour marathon and I was doing sprints on my treadmill in the 9-9.5 minute mile range, and running tempo runs at the 10:00 mile pace. The pain just didn't go away, and at mile 14 of the Eastern States 20, my left leg felt damp and dead and my left foot felt like it was just slapping along. The Boston was now three weeks away. I decided to rest a bit the following week and go see a physical therapist.

I was now in my taper, and was given the green light to run the marathon so long as I rested. My physical therapist told me that I had the physical and mental conditioning to run the marathon even if I didn't run at all until the day. A spinal adjustment put things back into their proper place and I felt immediately better. I gave myself five days more of rest, and then ran two times a week in the two weeks leading up to the marathon. I was very worried that my leg would not hold out. I don't know what was more difficult, running or not running. It was a struggle but the rest did me a lot of good and the Friday before the marathon, my piriformis felt practically healed, with just a small patch of palpable scar tissue under the surface and no pain. I also had a minor pull in my right quad (the result of compensation) and I had a deep tissue massage to work on that and to get me in general all over wellness for the big day.

The big day came and Michael dropped me off at the bus. My friend, Sandy, met me in Hopkinton and got me to the starting line. It was a very fun morning but I tried to contain my excitement and save energy for the marathon. My goal was to run an easy 12:00/mile pace and just stay steady and have a good time. I was able to maintain that overall to the half marathon, despite a few trips to the bathroom! My stomach was pretty nervous for the first ten miles. I could always see the "mob" about two minutes ahead of me! It was amazing to see a completely packed roadway of runners stretching out as far as the eye could see!

The towns seemed to fly past. In Ashland there was a bluegrass band, at the Framingham Harley-Davidson dealer they were cranking the Allman Brothers, Natick was a conservative scene with lots of spectators, the Wellesley College Girls lived up to their reputation and I have never heard such enthusiastic cheering! I could hear them for at least a half mile away! In Wellesley, I saw two Aussies and thought of Terra, it was bittersweet but their smiling Aussie faces really cheered me onward. I took my only walking break at mile 16, up the hill before Newton-Wellesley Hospital, because I wanted to look fresh and strong for Michael and my coworkers. Cresting the hill then coasting down to Newton-Wellesley I saw three of my coworkers jumping up and down with a big sign! I wanted to stop but my legs just wanted to keep their pace, so I thanked them and kept going. I saw Michael where we said we'd meet and he was soooooo happy! He took several pictures, handed me two more Gu packets, a pack of pain patches, and a bite of a hotdog -- at my request he had gotten one from the Newton-Wellesley BBQ and put it in a Ziploc to keep it fresh. I just wanted one bite -- just a salty taste of something other than Gu. I gave him a hug and ran off, passing another NWH employee group calling out my name.

I had planned to walk Heartbreak Hill. I had run it before during training and was concerned it would inflame my piriformis, but I ended up just downshifting to a slower pace and jogging the whole thing!!! What a rush when I crested that bad boy! Coming down Heartbreak Hill and through Brighton to Brookline was the toughest part of the marathon for me. I knew at that time that I would complete the marathon, but I also knew that I would never regain my 12:00 pace that I had held so steadily before the Hill. They say there are two parts to the Boston Marathon, everything up to Heart Break Hill and everything beyond it. Nothing could be further from the truth. The down hills were killer and my ITB attachment area on my left knee felt strained and I felt less stable. At the base of the hill, as we turned the corner and began our run on Beacon St through Brookline, I heard my name and there was my coworker, Nancy S. I was so surprised to see her and it came at the lowest point of my run and I have to say that Nancy was my marathon angel at that point! I gave her a hug and mumbled something pretty incoherent, and I realized I was pretty mentally zonked at that point, and ran on. With about 3.5 miles now to go, I knew I would make it!! It was all about getting there.

The crowds in Boston are amazing. Even when you feel like a loser, there is someone calling out "You can do it!", "We believe in you!", "Look where you are! You are running Boston!", or "You have got this thing!" It’s truly inspiring and the crowds carried me in spirit for so much of the way. And smiling really does make you feel better.
When I saw the Citgo sign at Kenmore, I just can't describe it. I had one mile to go in this famous marathon. I tried calling Michael as I jogged along, but got his voice mail. I turned onto Hereford St and I could hear cheering. I was told this was a tough little hill but I cruised up it, my heart full of pride! I turned the corner onto Boylston Street and I heard a booming yell, "Sabrina!" I turned my head in the direction of the sound and there was Michael, big smile, taking pictures, I ran with my head turned back to him smiling and holding a peace sign, and I have to say it goes on record as one of the greatest moments of my life!

I looked down the last hundred yards and saw the enormous structure of the finish line, of the 114th Boston Marathon. Here I was, with an official number, running down Boylston Street, like so many others have done before me. The feeling was indescribable. I raised my arms into double peace signs and crossed the finish line as the announcer said on the loudspeaker, "Runner 26266, Sabrina La Fave, of Waltham, Massachusetts". Pretty exhilarating!

Someone put a Mylar sheet on me, another person put a finisher's medal on my neck, another handed me water and a bag of snacks, and everyone congratulated me. I was sooo happy. Still am. A big thanks to Newton-Wellesley for giving me this opportunity to run this amazing marathon!

My “First Marathon” Experience – Maureen

2010-04-16T10:11:00.001-04:00

Three days to go! I started my training three months ago today and the marathon seemed so far away then but now it's finally almost here. My last run is scheduled for this afternoon, an easy four miles around Castle Island, and I may go for a walk tomorrow. I plan on picking up my bib number this afternoon at the marathon expo and just taking it easy the rest of the weekend… get lots of rest, eat lots of pasta (yay!) and drink lots of water. I know I'll be nervous the morning of but right now I'm just really excited.

My knee and hip are feeling okay, but then again I haven't run since my last long run. My knee was begging for rest after that run so the past two weeks have pretty much consisted of easy cardio, stretching, my physical therapy exercises and mentally psyching myself up for the big day. Since I don't know how my knee will hold up, my initial goals for this marathon have changed quite a bit. I'm no longer focused on finishing within a certain timeframe... I'm basically just looking to enjoying my time on the course, taking in the cheering crowds, and crossing the finish line, at whatever time that may be! There are a few people who've said they'll jump in and run with me at certain points on the course, where I may need some additional encouragement, so I'm looking forward to that as well.

My coworkers and some of the Shipley Fitness Center members surprised me this morning with a “Good Luck Moe” poster that they signed with well wishes, which was AWESOME!!! It really helps to read those words of encouragement and know that so many people are behind you. You only get one "first marathon" experience and so far mine has been pretty sweet. I cannot wait for Monday and wish good luck to everyone else running!!

Hoping for the Best – Andrew

2010-04-15T08:50:00.000-04:00

Well...I have mixed emotions about this coming Monday. I took two weeks off over the last four weeks to let an injury heal. It seems that my taper was more like a drop off. The leg feels good today. I have been icing, stretching and compressing. I ran six miles last Saturday, three miles on Monday and four miles on Tuesday. I will probably do one more short run and then hope for the best. I am still wary of how my leg will hold up during the marathon, but I am very excited to be participating in such a prestigious event. I am thrilled about the challenge of running 26.2 miles and the chance to run alongside so many others. I would like to thank Newton-Wellesley Hospital for this wonderful opportunity. I also thank those who are supporting me in this event. The forecast on Monday is supposed to be great running weather! I am excited to pick up my race packet tomorrow. Good luck to the NWH Marathon Team!

No One Runs Alone – Donna

2010-04-15T08:49:00.001-04:00

I have been glued to the weather forecast this week as I'm sure many other runners have. Currently it is forecasting mid 50's and cloudy for race day. This brings a smile to my face as the reality is sinking in at the task at hand for Monday. If you are interested in tracking me my number 26255. On race day you can check out www.bostonmarathon.org. There will be a tracking feature to input my name or bib number to see where I'm at on the course.

I have to give a big THANK YOU to Newton-Wellesley Hospital. Without them running "Boston" would not have been possible. They have given me and the team tremendous support these past couple of months and the staff have been super encouraging. I also must give a big shout out to my husband, Chad. He has been there 100% and has made it possible to get out for the training runs, which hasn't always been easy since when we both work full time and have two rambunctious toddlers. This type of support along with all of my friends and coworkers who donated to make this possible is what will keep me going to the finish. Although it will be my legs running across the finish line, I will have the spirits and words of encouragement from all of you with me. I believe no one ever truly runs alone.

See You on the Course – Tom

2010-04-14T10:18:00.000-04:00

I'm looking forward to next Monday with anticipation and anxiety. I feel as though I've done the necessary training but worry if it was enough. My injury has healed, mostly as a result of cutting back on running. I figure it's better to finish at a reasonable pace than flame out trying to go unrealistically fast. I've been reminded by many friends that I'm not as young as I used to be!

This week, I'm getting plenty of advice: Don't start too fast, drink early and often, don't drink too much, etc. It's fun to hear the different approaches and I really appreciate the support I'm getting. The last week is a real break, with so much less running. I "only" ran 10 miles this past weekend and can see why now. My body aches all over so it will be good to have a week of relative rest before the big day.

Sylvie, however has had a difficult week. She has been unable to run because of knee pain. Rest has not helped so she's getting medical advice. Hopefully, she'll be able to run but it's an unknown for now.

Thanks to everyone at Newton-Wellesley Hospital, especially the Charitable Foundation team, who have made it possible for Sylvie and me to run. The number, access to Physical Therapy, the cool running shirts and complete support throughout the Hospital have made this a great experience for me. If you are at the Hospital, look for me to pass sometime around 1:00 pm. That's assuming I cross the start at 10:30 am and keep to a nine minute/mile pace. I'll be wearing a Marathon blue shirt with "Newton-Wellesley Hospital" across the front. If you really want to find me, my bib # is 26,268 and there's an ATT cell phone alert service on the Marathon website.

Thanks again to all for the terrific support and I'll see many of you on the course.

Lucky to Work at Newton-Wellesley – Sabrina

2010-04-13T16:38:00.000-04:00

The past two weeks of tapering have been a much needed rest on my body – it made me a bit uneasy to take so much time off after dedicating so much time to running over the past 11 weeks (55 hours and >300 miles, according to my training logger!). Suddenly I felt as though I had so much time on my hands, and I devoted much of my energy to planning our upcoming wedding.

Yesterday I ran my last long run before the marathon, just shy of eight miles, with my dog, Terra. During my training, I've come up with quite a few creative run ideas, and one of them was to run, rather than drive, to the park for our run. Nearly everyday, I take my dog to Cat Rock Park in Weston, where she can run off leash and we run the trails together. The park is just over two miles from my home in Waltham. So, yesterday, I decided it was the day to do that run. Over the past few weeks, Terra has really become a “city dog” as we have done a lot of our runs together along the Charles and the streets of Waltham. But I could tell as we ran along yesterday that she knew where we were headed. When we made the final turn toward the park, her ears perked up and she quickened her pace until she reached the end of her long lead. I unclipped her when we got to the park and we ran our circuit. The longer days and opening leaves of spring soften the glow of the late day sun. I felt like we could run for miles, but I knew I better take it easy. After a few miles on trails, we headed back out on the road and made our way home, Terra running with a stick from the park in her mouth for much of the way. I just love the smiles we get from weary commuters heading home, and I imagine they are thinking “I wish I was doing what they were doing right now!".

This morning, I arrived at work, and something seemed to be up. As I walked down the lab hallways, I noticed many inspirational banners hanging on the walls. Someone ahead whispered, “here she comes!” and ducked out around the corner. I entered the break room, and there was a full table of YUMMY home baked carbs, many of them gluten free (thanks for remembering, guys!). And my supervisor, Diane Mullen, made sure that I stayed and enjoyed a great breakfast. We are so truly lucky to work here at Newton-Wellesley Hospital – I am so touched by the support and encouragement of my coworkers and thank you all once again for your generous donations to the Vernon Cancer Center.

Next week is it! I am really looking forward to the marathon. My goal is to ENJOY it, finish it and hopefully give back to others along the way.

Looking Forward to the Challenge – Annie

2010-04-12T16:19:00.001-04:00

It's hard to believe there is just one week left before Marathon Day! I completed the last long run of my training on Saturday out at my parents' place in Petersham - eight miles, about half of it on pine needle-laden trails in the woods, sunny and fragrant and easy on the knees. Speaking of my knees, they are feeling normal and strong after that scare of a few days where crouching down had made them twingey and painful. Good news! I feel great.

Last week I managed to get up early enough to get my midweek runs done before work each day, all on the treadmill at a faster pace than I plan on running in the race. This week, even though I know I can do them faster, I plan on running the bulk of my miles at race pace, which will feel pretty slow when I am only doing three to four miles at a time, but will be sensible and doable for 26.2. I'll throw in a few fast miles, but I want my legs to get used to the feel of race pace, so I won't get going too fast and tire out too soon.

My main goals for this final week of tapering are simple and few: go to bed as early as possible (aiming for eight to nine hours per night), eat lots of good carbs and focus on nutrition, stretch daily and really take it easy. I have 11 miles on the schedule to run before Race Day, and will do that mix of race pace and fast miles that I mentioned before. It feels a little funny to reduce mileage so drastically, but many, many marathoners before me have used this approach and it makes sense - we need this time to let our muscles and bodies replenish and heal before the ultimate stress of the race. The taper is essentially like filling your car up with gas before a big trip! I've got to work out the logistics of the day (make sure I have my favorite Margarita with Salt Shotblocks, figure out exactly what I am going to wear and what I am going to eat for breakfast, coordinate race morning drop off by my sister, etc.) but really, all I've got to do is run 26.2 miles.

I am just so thrilled to have the opportunity to run the Boston Marathon and thank NWH for making it possible. It's going to be so exciting to run past the Hospital! And I can't wait to experience the unprecedented crowd support that I've heard about all along the course, which will be a huge factor in keeping the energy up and legs moving. But in the end, it's really just up to me. I know it will be tough, but I know I am ready and determined and looking forward to the challenge.

Knee Pain – Maureen

2010-04-08T10:19:00.001-04:00

I'm going to echo everyone else's sentiments about the weather... you really couldn't beat it this past weekend. I'm not a fan of being all bundled up to run, so throwing on shorts and a t-shirt was very refreshing (although I'm sure I blinded a few drivers with the sun reflecting off my winter white legs).

I went back for a follow-up with Carl in Physical Therapy last Friday because I was having some numbness in the same hip that was giving me trouble during my training runs. Aside from being annoying, it's not bothersome but I wanted to make sure it wasn't anything serious... luckily everything seemed to check out fine.

Since I was still a little wary of my knee, I decided to cut my long run down to 15 miles last Saturday, instead of 20. My uncle joined me again and we ran from Newton-Wellesley to Coolidge Corner and back.... or at least that was the plan. I made it about eight miles before I started feeling a sharp pain in my left knee. We stopped to walk a few times over the next three miles before I finally had to throw in the towel and stop running because it was that painful. Thankfully I had my uncle with me because he ran ahead, got his car and came back to get me. The pain went away by the next day but I'm not going to lie, I was feeling a tad dejected. The next two weeks I am just going to focus on getting in a few easy low mileage runs, continuing my stretching and strengthening, and getting lots of rest. Carl and Amber in Physical Therapy have been super helpful and I've been receiving lots of encouraging words from people, which means a lot to me. Regardless of my injuries, so far this whole experience has been amazing and I am absolutely looking forward to what my first Marathon Monday will be like!

No Backing Out – Tom

2010-04-06T13:59:00.001-04:00

On my first long run, the temperature did not exceed 25 degrees. Sunday, it was 70 by the end of the run. Though it was great to go out in shorts and a t-shirt, I'm not sure that I prefer it. I drank during the run, but sure could have used more fluids. This is New England after all, so this stretch of early spring can't last. On April 10, the 10-day forecast will be available and I'll be online with the 26,000 other runners.

We're tapering, so Sunday was a 14-mile run. I felt pretty good, except for the adjustment to the heat. I'm forcing myself to follow the advice to cut back mileage during the week. The advice says to run only one day this week at "marathon pace". Since I've yet to run a marathon, and I don't wear a watch during the week, I'm not quite sure what it means. Today, I just slowed down and ran a relaxed five miles.

I picked up my running singlet and long-sleeve shirt today. It's really nice – Adidas Marathon gear with “Newton-Wellesley Hospital” on the front. Now that I have the gear and my photo's posted, there's no backing out.

Each year, I go on a golf trip with friends from the Hospital. We plan it in the fall so I committed long before even contemplating the Marathon. We leave tomorrow morning. A month ago, I wasn't enthusiastic about going, worrying that it might throw me off my training so close to the date. How stupid of me – I can't wait to leave. It's a great time and I'll come home refreshed. I warned the group that I'll be up early for a run and that I'll be “smart” with my evening wine allotment. The travel days even enforce more rest and less running, which is a good thing right now.

Enjoy the week. Next week this time, we'll be in final preparation mode, which as far as I can tell, is rest, food and beverage. Now that's my kind of training!

Last Long Run – Donna

2010-04-06T13:55:00.001-04:00

I couldn't have asked for better weather. We spent Saturday at the playground and Sunday was filled with family activities. The weather was beautiful and I waited till late in the day on Sunday to get out for a run. After everyone was settled down for the night I started out at 7:30 pm for my last long run before the taper. I didn't do as much as I planned but I did get in eight miles and felt strong.

I've been having some aches in a few of the joints in my toes. I thought it was due to the added mileage but wanted to get it checked out just in case it was the start of a bigger problem. I was able to get an appointment with Carla over in the physical therapy department and she gave me some great advice. Thanks again Carla!

I can't believe the marathon is less than two weeks away. Over the next two weeks I will alternate between three and five mile loops and focus on getting plenty of fluid and rest.

Overcoming Burnout – Sabrina

2010-04-06T13:52:00.000-04:00

It took me a few days to re-energize after the 20 miler; and when I got back to running last Wednesday, something just wasn't right. The nagging pain that I felt in my left leg during the race had progressed to a dull ache, and my well being, overall, had gone from generalized all over pain to localized epicenters of agony! I did my best to jog a few times, but only put in about eight miles last week. I felt that my body and my mind needed a rest. I hadn't gone skiing for about six weeks, and the weekend forecast was perfect for spring skiing.

My fiancé and I headed over to Bretton Woods Saturday and skied a six solid hours in shorts and tee shirts under bluebird skies in 86 degrees! We had a blast. It was really great for me to get out and do anything outside but running. I was feeling a bit of training burn out and didn't want to push it. Saturday after skiing, I went for a run/hike with my dog, Terra, along a dirt USFS road in the White Mountains; two miles out on the road, three miles out on a hiking trail, and then back on the road. The snow melt has turned even the smallest streams into turbulent cascades; and I had to take my sneakers off and cross a small stream barefoot. I let the cold water wash over my tired legs and feet. It felt wonderful.

Sunday I also skied, albeit only for the morning. The snow conditions were deteriorating rapidly, so we opted for a cold drink on a sunny deck and spent some time looking for skiers on the snowfields of Mt Washington.

I'm starting a little physical therapy this week to get me back on track (thanks, Carl!). My goal for the next couple of weeks is to get a few nice jogs in and let my body rebuild and my motivation recharge. On a happy note, I'm pleased to learn that I have surpassed the $1000 fundraising goal for the Vernon Cancer Center, and donations are still coming in. Thank you to all who have chosen to support me and the Cancer Center! Your generosity is greatly valued.

Tweaky Knees – Annie

2010-04-05T10:37:00.000-04:00

The first official week of the taper has come to a close, though it doesn't feel like I got too much of a break! My mileage was reduced this past week from 40 to 30, then this week will be down to 21. I did all of my mid-week runs on the treadmill due to the inclement weather and my overall lower energy. The 20-miler must have impacted my energy level more than I thought. But I still did my two shorter midweek runs at a good, fast pace, with a slower eight-miler in the middle.

I went to the Cape all weekend for a friend's big birthday bash, and while I still got my long run in, it was hard to get the rest I needed and so that will be a priority this week. My sister and I hadn't really planned out the course of our 12-miler, and ended up probably doing about 14 instead, from Buzzards Bay into Bourne and Wareham and along the Cape Cod Canal for a few miles, then back. What gorgeous weather! We neglected the sunscreen though, so I'm sporting a rather vibrant sunburn. When you're out running for a few hours, it's so important to remember sun protection - I've learned my lesson. Somehow I had the energy for a vigorous game of wiffle ball post-run…does that count as cross-training?

My knees have been feeling a bit tweaky for the past day or two, which I hope goes away. I first noticed it when I crouched down to pick something up off the floor and felt a twinge, which I still feel now. Really hoping that simply subsides. My cross-training today will be much more low key, just stretch class and some walking. My runs for the week will be four, six and three miles and I want to be back at full intensity for those.

While I do use headphones/music on my indoor treadmill runs, I never do when I run outside. For me, running is so much a mental thing, that when you block out the whole auditory part and just use music to zone in, it's hard to focus on what you're actually doing, never mind employ mental techniques to get through tough spots. I don't want to feel like I have to rely on something to run - I only want to rely on me. There's the safety factor too; running with headphones is like running with blinders, and you have a constricted sense of other runners and the environment around you. And I know on race day, the crowd support and cheering is going to be a huge part of what gets me to the Finish - no chance I'd ever want to shut that out! As Maureen mentioned, having your name on your shirt is KEY. One of my favorite parts of running Chicago was wearing my Red Sox hat and getting heckled good naturedly by all the Cubs fans lining the course. Runners absolutely feed off the crowd's energy.

Goals for this week: plenty of sleep, keeping an eye on that tweaky knee, staying away from Easter candy remnants and keeping up the intensity in my shorter runs. I'll be heading to my parents' house this weekend for my final long run (8 miles) and some R&R in the final full weekend before race weekend!

Eastern States 20 Mile Race! – Sabrina

2010-04-01T13:24:00.001-04:00

Last Saturday I ran the Eastern States 20 Miler! The course runs from Kittery, Maine to Hampton Beach, NH. A friend mentioned it to me a few weeks ago, and I jumped at the opportunity to run my longest run in a supported, race environment.

Conventional marathon wisdom says, as I have read, that one should try to run at least one race prior to their first marathon, to prepare themselves for the experience of racing – logistics, packet pick up, pre-race jitters, and the like.

I was meeting three of my friends, two of which were also racing, although I knew that we'd not run together, as their paces are much faster than mine. The race began, and we embraced and then started off, all smiles. Within seconds the crowd of runners coalesced, and I didn't see them again until the finish line.

I ran my first mile at a ten minute pace, my "pre-marathon training" pace. In the past nine weeks, as I have increased my distance from pre-marathon 0-20 miles per week to nearly 40 miles per week, my pace has slowed to about a 12-minute mile pace on runs longer than 15 miles, but that's OK, I'm doing this to finish and stay injury free.

There was a wicked headwind for much of the course. Runners stretched out along the coastline, and I settled into my pace, always keeping my eye on a fluorescent green jacket worn by a woman running in the distance ahead of me. I stopped at every aid station and thanked the volunteers and stretched. At several points during the race, I spotted a stealth photographer, my friend Adam; an ultra runner who was sidelined from today's race due to an injured Achilles. Whenever I saw Adam, I felt re-energized, sucked it in, improved my form, smiled for the camera.

Somewhere around mile 14, my left leg began hurting. I struggled on and tried not to think about it. At mile 17, I had gained on the fluorescent green jacket, and ran along with the woman, another first time marathoner, and we compared notes and shared encouraging words. She slipped back, and I ran the final mile alone. Soon, I heard my name, and saw my friends and my fiancé, Michael, cheering me on to the finish line. The clock read 4:12:30; about twelve minutes longer than I had hoped, but I did it! It was a great experience for me. As far as my cardiovascular, I think I can run all day. My legs however, have one speed, and it’s a slow one. Its taper time, and I am thrilled! Spring skiing for me this weekend!

Long Run Postponed - Maureen

2010-03-30T10:33:00.001-04:00

So on the advice of a few seasoned marathoners, I decided to postpone my last long run of 18-20 miles to this Saturday instead of running it this past weekend when many others did. I really want to get one good, long run under my belt so if it means an extra week's rest for my hip and knee, so be it! Two-plus weeks will still be a decent amount of tapering time for me, I think. I replaced my long run this weekend with intervals on the track, 6x800, at 5K pace. I was aware of my knee throughout, but my pace remained strong. I have short runs planned for today and Thursday. I'm hoping I continue to feel good before Saturday's adventure!

I was doing a little internet surfing about what to expect the day of and found a couple of things that I'm totally going to do...

"Write your name on your shirt or wear something unique. Hearing your name and the cheers makes a huge difference." – I definitely plan on making a race shirt that says "Go Moe!"... I'll need all the encouragement I can get!

and...

"High-five at least one kid every mile. Tons of kids and people line the streets of the course. This will help keep things in perspective whether you are having the race of your life or you are crawling to the finish." – This piece of advice made me smile. Even if I don't actually high-five a kid at every mile, I'll definitely make sure to get to a few!

Three Weeks Left! – Andrew

2010-03-30T10:21:00.000-04:00

Well…I took an entire week off to let my right leg heal. My guess is it was a high grade pulled muscle. It is still not 100 percent but at least I have been able to get back to running again. I ran 8.5 miles on Saturday including four loops around the Chestnut Hill Reservoir. I love that run. It was fairly cold but I was able to complete the run without my leg giving out. I ran 4+ miles on Monday and another 7 miles today. I am at the point where I am supposed to start tapering my runs, which I plan to do. I just need to get one more long run in on Saturday, and the rest is downhill from there until the marathon. The weather is supposed to be nice this weekend. I can’t believe there are only three weeks left. Part of me is trying not to think about it and part of me is really excited!

Taper Time – Tom and Sylvie

2010-03-29T16:38:00.000-04:00

Tom
Let the taper begin! Marathon gurus say physiologic training is mostly complete at this point and we should start to taper mileage in preparation for the marathon. I take all this advice with a grain of salt since the articles rarely distinguish between athletes and the rest of us. Still, it's nice to know that I can cut down the mileage each of the next three weeks. If I understand correctly, intensity of runs should remain the same but mileage should decrease about 20 percent this week. I've gotten used to eating whatever I like and whenever I'm hungry so I'll have to cut back there a little too.

Yesterday, Sylvie and I went for our 20-mile run. It wasn't easy. We designed the run so there were several hills after mile 18, and I really had to slow down on the hills. My heart was OK but my legs felt heavy and wouldn't go as fast as I'd hoped. On race day, I'll have to be smart prior to turning the corner at the fire station on Comm. Ave. and climbing the Newton Hills. We're sticking with our plan of not running the course before the Marathon. I've run parts of it during training runs that start at NWH, but I always start up Beacon St to Newton Center and run Commonwealth Ave in reverse. In reality, I've lived here long enough to know the course from NWH to Boston. I practiced eating gel and drinking on the long runs, even though I haven't been getting very thirsty. I can tell that I feel better after the long runs when I do drink and eat so I'm hopeful it will help for those last six miles.

My back/chest wall muscle pull is definitely better, but Sylvie will need some attention this week for a knee problem that started yesterday. Newton-Wellesley Hospital Physical Therapy staff are great. I'm there weekly; the physical therapist is excellent and I'm doing all the exercises and stretching that is prescribed. It's a tremendous benefit for the NWH runners and I'm so appreciative of the expertise and professionalism of the staff.

This week will be three to four days of running: none today, an easy run tomorrow, a longish run Wednesday or Thursday and then "only" 14 miles on Sunday. What a new perspective on 14 miles! Thanks again to everyone who gives me an encouraging word during the week. It makes a difference.

Sylvie
The challenge is to peak at the right time – not too soon, not too late or not at all (!). When training for a major run, I have always found this to be tricky and often hit or miss because there are so many variables. Then, assuming one has peaked at approximately the right time, the next challenge in the final weeks is to not overdo it – not easy if you belong to the school of "more is better." In any case, even if everything goes according to the master plan, I remind myself that when it comes to running a marathon, there are no guarantees. If things do not pan out, I still have the benefits of the many months of training... so, regardless of the outcome, one comes out ahead.

Recognizing My Potential – Annie

2010-03-29T15:40:00.001-04:00

I've had yet another great week of training, and am so thankful to have escaped pain/injury/discomfort aside from my little knee flare up a month or so ago. Coming out of my highest mileage week, I feel a bit sore (especially when going up and down stairs) but pretty strong overall! The Stretch class with Meera at the Shipley Fitness Center has been a welcome addition to my routine and I look forward to another session today.

A high moment of the past week came on Wednesday, when I had to run 10 miles and simply ran home to Harvard Square after work - combining my commute with my training! The sun was out, as were many other runners, and it was a thrill to be home by 7:00 and already have completed a long workout. The other two midweek runs, five miles apiece, were back on the treadmill, trying to push for some speed.

For my longest training run, 20 miles, my sister and I headed up to Kittery, ME for the Eastern States 20-Miler on Sunday. What a day! We left Cambridge around 7:30, arriving an hour later at Hampton Beach to drop our car off and be shuttled up to Kittery with many other excited runners. It was a really fun atmosphere, with about 1,000 runners all crowded into a school gymnasium, limbering up, moving through their pre-race rituals, assessing layers. We all walked to the starting line in downtown Kittery and were off at 11:00 am! The course wound through the town and back roads for a while, then around mile 4-5 we were running on the coast, following Route1/1-A south. The vista was incredible, with bright sun glinting off the waves and salt spray in the air. It was tough for me for the first 7-8 miles, as I kept getting passed by other runners, which was disheartening. I had the mindset that this may have been a race, but it was still just a training run, and I was trying not to get too caught up in going fast or all-out. Also, given the small field of entrants, everyone was all jumbled together at the start and it took many miles before different paces settled out, so of course speedy people were passing me! Nonetheless, I didn't like it.

But around mile 10, everything shifted, and I found a bit more of a groove and began to pass many people who I had been keeping in my sights previously. I really picked up the speed on the downhills, and didn't lose any ground as I dug in on the uphills. One thing that I love about races is the ability to zero in on someone ahead of you and resolve to step it up and pass them, picking off runners left and right as you methodically and strategically move forward. It's so satisfying! From mile 10 to mile 15, I was really in the zone, continually passing people. Around mile 15, the runners around me had thinned a bit, and we were mostly all in a single file line, separated by some distance. Picking off those people ahead of me would require a little more determination, as well as patience.

The final two miles were straight along the seawall at Hampton Beach, directly into a strong headwind. We had been battling the wind for most of the whole race, but those last two miles were brutal - head down, powering through. Thankfully I had sunglasses on, with all the sand whipping around! In one of the windy stretches earlier on the in the race, some guy was running literally over my right shoulder, two feet away from me, benefiting from me blocking the wind - NOT cool. Talk about being too close! But I say thanks to that annoying runner, because be prompted me to pick up the pace and leave him in the dust. I passed about four or five people on that last two-mile stretch, and pushed it into a sprint the last 50 yards or so, for the big finish!

To my great excitement, I saw that I had completed the race in 3:25:35 - a full 25 minutes faster than I had anticipated. Seeing those results fueled this "I can do anything!" attitude, and made me think, if I did this so much faster than I thought I would, the Marathon is completely surmountable! It was just a fantastic day, with a good crowd of people and I loved having the opportunity to really check in on where I am in my training and recognize my potential.

My Goals – Tom

2010-03-25T15:14:00.001-04:00

I'm happily back on the road this past week, recovering from a chest wall muscle injury. Reading the other Marathoner blogs, I commiserate with the runners working through aches, pains, muscle strains and some real injuries. It was hard to take time off – I felt guilty going home directly after work. It was harder still to get back to it. The first two runs were especially difficult and worried me – how could I lose so much fitness in one short week? The good thing is that I started slowly, concerned mostly with finding my rhythm and running without aggravating the injury. I also readjusted the training schedule and goals.

This past Sunday was a slow, steady 18-mile run. The day was perfect for shorts, no gloves or hat! Sylvie and I ran through parts of Lincoln, past the Decordova museum, along a dirt road with meadows and a horse farm, into Wayland and then Weston. Past the Campion Center in Weston, back to Conant Road into Lincoln and then to the Cambridge Reservoir abutting the Waltham Office parks. The final push was an uphill climb on Trapelo Road to Lincoln center and home.

We both recovered well after the run and this week is going fine. I did a short run Tuesday, and plan an 8 to10 miler this afternoon after work. Next Sunday is the final long run – 20 miles and then we'll start to taper.

So, what are my goals now? For my first marathon, I hope to be smart at the start and find a comfortable pace to hold for the race. Sylvie has run 3:50ish marathons so we'll start together. I hope to finish under four hours. My dream would be to finish under my qualifying time (3:45) but I'm not sure that's realistic any longer – there are too many variables, so finish is the key word.

My Joints Are Plotting Against Me – Maureen

2010-03-25T09:31:00.001-04:00

The past couple of weeks have been a bit of a challenge for me... my left knee and right hip seem to have formed an alliance and are plotting to keep me from running this marathon. Needless to say, my initial goal of staying healthy throughout training has been tough to maintain!

I had a good run with my uncle on Saturday, March 13... a little over 18 miles! He definitely helped keep me going during the moments when I really didn't want to. We followed the Charles River from Watertown Square to the Museum of Science and back. He strategically planted water bottles along the route prior to our run, which was so nice and worked out great. Granted it was a bit of a monsoon outside and I got tidal waved by a car on Memorial Drive but that just added to the fun! My hip and knee, however, were not amused and gave me some trouble during the last 7-8 miles. I was able to run the whole time but I ended up being sidelined from running the rest of the week. Luckily it doesn't hurt to do other forms of exercise so I was able continue cross-training on the spin bike.

My next run was my long run this past Friday. The weather was amazing and I ran just under 15 miles but had even more knee pain than before. It's so frustrating because I have the endurance to do these distances but my joints just aren't cooperating. My knee only hurts when running – the pain goes away almost as soon as I stop. That's a bit of a problem considering running is the one thing I need my body to do! I know a huge part of this training is psychological and I have to not let myself get down about it all, but it's been hard. I have my longest run – 20 miles! – scheduled for this weekend so I've been mentally preparing myself and hope it goes ok.

I'm continuing to stretch, foam roll, ice, take ibuprofen... I've also been entertaining any idea that sounds like it would help (i.e. using arnica cream, taking fish oil supplements, using a knee strap, etc). Even though my weekly mileages have been lower than I planned for, I'm still on track with my long runs and cross training, which I'm happy about. With or without injury though, nothing can take away my excitement to run this marathon!!

A Little Longer Than Planned! – Donna

2010-03-22T16:14:00.001-04:00

For those of you who know me well, you can agree that I have no sense of direction. I have lived in Newton over nine years and still get lost driving around. I find it funny that I have a GPS and it's still an adventure when you ride with me! I started out Sunday late in the day around 5:00 pm for what was planned to be a simple 10-mile loop on the marathon route and ended up doing a total of 14 miles.

The day was beautiful and I tried out my new running shades. Feeling rested with the sun on my face and enjoying not wearing all the layers I started what would be a simple loop. A little over an hour and a half into the run I realized I must have missed my five-mile turn around marker. I'm finding the longer runs to be more and more difficult to do alone. Usually I enjoy the peacefulness of running alone, but after five miles my body and mind begin the internal struggle. My legs start to ache and the battle begins. For the next several miles I play the game of telling myself "just get to marker X and then you can walk". Once I arrive at the marker I convince myself that it wasn't so bad, that I can run to the next marker, and so on until I've completed the mileage I had set out to do.

I'm planning on attending a marathon workshop later this evening, hopefully I will pick up a few tips to help me get to the finish line.

An Absolute Favorite – Annie

2010-03-22T14:25:00.000-04:00

This past week has been just spectacular weather for doing just about anything – especially running! I feel like it was the elements saying "we're sorry" for the absolutely horrible windy, rainy few days prior. I pounded out my shorter runs on the treadmill before work on Tuesday and Thursday, but enjoyed a sunny, balmy nine-miler on the marathon course/Comm Ave. on Wednesday, a quickie three-miler on Friday afternoon in Cambridge, and then a spring-like, energizing 14-miler yesterday morning in Worcester along the Holden Reservoir with my sister. That Holden Res route is an absolute favorite, with incredible views of the water and woods, some wildlife, little traffic and pine needle aromas.

My new running shoes have been great, and thus far I have encountered zero blisters! Today I am going to try a stretching class at the Shipley Fitness Center, which I think will be a welcome addition to my routine, as I find running to definitely be a tightening kind of activity. I'm certainly feeling sore today! I'll make sure to post how it goes. I need to stretch more in general, and having a class targeting this specifically will be helpful.

My sister and I signed up, like Sabrina, to do the Eastern States 20-Miler next Sunday! It's going to be a big day, but just seems like such a well-planned event and great way to get through that longest of long training runs. It should give me a good sense as to what I can expect (and shoot for) in terms of my race pace, in general. And you can't beat running along the coastline, right? I am really looking forward to it.

Less glorious weather this week, my highest mileage training week. For my midweek 10-miler on Wednesday, I plan to run from NWH home to Harvard Square, so just hope for no rain then! Lots of rest and good nutrition for me this week, as we enter the final month of training...

Long Run in the Mountains - Sabrina

2010-03-22T11:07:00.001-04:00

My fiancé and I keep a camper year round in Twin Mountain, NH – to be close to the mountains that we enjoy in so many ways. I haven't been to the Whites since my marathon training began, and I really needed to get up there. My long run this week was scheduled to be 17 miles, but in part because of The Eastern States 20 next weekend, I moved my mileage up this week so next weekend wouldn't feel like such a stretch. I reduced my midweek mileage by a couple of miles to accommodate a longer weekend run.

For anyone who visits Bretton Woods, you know the stretch of Route 3 from I93 through Twin Mountain is very beautiful, and it’s a drive we often take. We met up with many hiking friends in Ashland, NH on Friday night, and I was envious of everyone's hiking plans, but was looking forward to my run. A friend offered to leave me a cache of water in the back of his pickup at the trailhead he'd be parked at Saturday, which was a big help.

I started off at about 11:00 am, many hours after Michael had left to make first chair. I ran from our campground to Route 3, then out to nearly I93 – a 9.3 mile one-way distance. It was a beautiful sunny day, but there was a headwind, so I was relieved to have reached my turn around point!

It was hard to believe that I had been running for two hours and was just reaching halfway – but I continued on, taking in the scenery. Towering pines line the road ways, their bark decorated with mosses and hanging lichens, and I passed several beaver ponds. I watched for moose, but didn't see any this day. The snow is gone at the lower elevations but is still present on the mountain tops. When I crested the hill at about mile 14, I was rewarded by an amazing view of the white capped Presidential Range and a clear view of the observatory towers on the summit of Mt Washington.

When I reached mile 17, I chuckled to myself as I became aware of the contrast between the quaint main street of Twin Mountain versus the hustle and bustle of mile 17 on the marathon course. The last two miles were tough, but I was rewarded by the cheering crowd of my fiancé, Michael, and four of our friends, as I made my way down the dirt road at the campground, completing 18.6 miles in 3:55 minutes.

Sunday I skied for three hours, and managed to get 15 solid runs in before my legs said, "Ok, that's enough, please".

Injury Report – Andrew

2010-03-22T10:41:00.001-04:00

On Friday, March 19, I left Newton-Wellesley to do a 10-mile run. Around mile four or five the front of my leg starting hurting. I slowed my pace and finished the run. It was a loop run, so I had to get back to my car. I am guessing it is just a sprain. It does not feel like a shin splint. I am guessing it is the extensor digitorum longus. I was very disappointed, because I was supposed to do a 12-mile run on Saturday, which I thought was the most beautiful day of the year so far. I have been resting, icing, compressing and elevating my leg over the entire weekend. It still hurts and I am still limping. I hope this resolves soon because I need to get back on the pavement. I do not want to lose what I have already gained in my training thus far. I had some great runs last week…until Friday. Ugh!

Rain, Rain Go Away – Sabrina

2010-03-17T14:21:00.000-04:00

This Sunday I ran 16.1 miles on my treadmill in my basement. Three hours and ten minutes is a long time to spend on a treadmill, but I tried to make the best of it. After all, I was inside and dry. I had a 100 song playlist on my IPOD, and a Warren Miller extreme skiing video to pull me through. And I made it. The next day, I felt surprisingly good! Monday's a cross training day for me that consists of a 50 minute Pilates class followed by a 50 minute spin class, more indoor work outs.

Tuesday brought the return of the sun along with an extra hour of daylight after work. I strapped on my trail runners, whistled for my dog, Terra, and headed out to our favorite local conservation land for a four-mile run. We headed up the old ski hill first, pausing to take in the view from the top before heading down the dirt road and then into the woods. The run off from the recent storm combined with the downed trees made for a great outdoor adventure run. We hurdled huge mud bogs, leaped across small streams and ran several laps quietly through the old pastures. A short loop around a dirt service road, and we were closing our loop. I looked at Terra, her white legs black with mud. I looked at my new replacement Vasque Velocity trail runners, black with mud. Clearly, there was only one solution...we ran another loop. Life is good!

This weekend I am planning my next long run, a 16 to 18 miler, to take place in New Hampshire. I am thrilled at the prospect of quiet, long run along country roads. March 28 will be my last long run, and I have registered for the Eastern States 20 Miler. The course runs along the seacoast from Kittery, Maine to Salisbury, Mass. I can't wait to finally not run alone!

Running in the Rain! – Donna

2010-03-17T12:07:00.000-04:00

On Saturday I woke up and put on my running shoes and thought to myself, this is crazy…why would anyone get out in this weather to run. Since I took a few weeks off due to health issues I knew I needed to get the run in regardless of the weather. I planned out a 10-mile loop up Heartbreak Hill, down to Cleveland Circle and then back home. As always the first three miles are the toughest for me, but once I can get past it I usually start to loosen up and enjoy it. It was also a nice surprise to see so many runners out on Saturday given the weather conditions.

The run itself was a good one and I actually didn't mind the rain once I got started. I tried sports beans for the first time and found them to be a little hard and ended up dropping several trying to eat while running. I'm not the most coordinated person so for water stops and fuelling, I usually need to move to the side and walk. I think I'll stick to the gel shot blocks instead since I've used them in the past and had success. I will have family around mile 18 and I can grab some more from them on race day so I won't have to carry much with me the first 17 or so miles.

I can't believe it is just 4 WEEKS AWAY!

A Great Run – Annie

2010-03-17T09:50:00.000-04:00

The sun has come back to us, but all the heavy rain made for a pretty soggy long run on Saturday. I was out in Worcester, running with my sister and we made sure to leave by 7:00 am on Saturday to try to avoid as much of the rain as we could. We ran 18 miles, from Worcester out to Holden, then back along the beautiful Holden Reservoir - a favorite route. The final four to five miles were pretty rainy, but we were running in just misty morning air for most of it, luckily. I really like getting out earlier on the weekends, as the run does not completely dominate your day and you have more time to enjoy that feeling of accomplishment!

Last Wednesday I had one of the best runs thus far in my training - a perfect, sunny nine-miler from NWH along the course to Boston College, and back. I felt strong and encountered many other runners and walkers out and about. I am looking forward to a similar run tomorrow, when it is supposed to reach 60 degrees! Amazing.

I also got a new pair of running shoes last week, at long last. They are identical to the ones I'd been running in, and it's fun to do a side by side comparison. The old ones have seen many miles and it was high time to retire them. I may grab myself another pair to make sure I have appropriate gear both at home and one of my other favorite places, the Shipley Fitness Center.

Just under five weeks 'til Marathon Day and I am feeling great. Very excited and still a bit incredulous that I am actually going to be running the Boston Marathon!

When It Rains It Pours - Andrew

2010-03-17T09:39:00.001-04:00

I left my apartment around 2:30 pm on Saturday hoping to do the 17.1 mile loop around the Charles River. Despite the rain, I needed to get in a long run today. I headed to the North Beacon Street bridge and then on over to the Mt. Auburn bridge near Watertown Square. There were strong head winds the first half of the way, and several times I contemplated bailing out...but I kept going. The wind was at my back on the return loop, but it didn't seem to matter because I was soaking wet. Now I know why it is so hard to train for the Boston while living in Boston. I guess I am glad that I only have one more long run left before the marathon.

It’s About the Experience – Donna

2010-03-17T09:36:00.001-04:00

I've finally shaken the cold, the family is healthy and everyone has fallen back into our daily routine. I underestimated how not running for two weeks would affect my training. I started running again this past Sunday and the first day out was a struggle. I planned to do an easy five miler with a friend and ended up only running four and walking the rest. It was an eye opener and for the first time I started to doubt if I could do the marathon. After getting a pep talk from a few friends I reminded myself why I was doing it in the first place, it was never about the time but the experience. So I just need to focus on putting one foot in front of the other until I cross the finish line. Over the next couple of days the runs have become easier and I'm slowly getting the mileage back up.

I am not a morning person and most of my running is done in the evening after my children have been tucked into bed, but I thought I would try and get a long run in on Saturday morning before the weekend gets too busy. After reviewing the weather forecast, this Saturday's run looks like it's going to be a long, wet and windy one. I'll take the rainy training runs in hopes that the weather will be sunny and cool for marathon day.

My Everest - Sabrina

2010-03-11T08:15:00.004-05:00

Every year I throw my name into the Boston Marathon lottery at work. I never expect to win. One day I returned from lunch and there was a message to call Public Affairs. I had recently participated in an employee video, so I assumed it was about that. I returned the call, and was stunned to find out I'd been chosen to run in the marathon for Newton-Wellesley Hospital. "Uh, ok...um...yes, I still want to do it" I stammered. I was pretty numb.

"So, you think you want to run a marathon" I googled. It's amazing how many hits there are. I had 13 weeks to train. Gulp. That's not alot of time for a novice runner. I came across Hal Higdon's site. I had a vague idea that he was some kind of running guru, and he looks pretty fit in his headshot, so I checked it out. Hal's Intermediate II Marathon Plan would get me to a 20 mile continuous run a little over a week before the marathon. That's pretty ambitious, but I told myself that with the base running I've maintained over the years, hiking, spinning, pilates, skiing - that I had the overall fitness level to attempt this program. I thought, ok, just one run at a time, just follow Hal's plan and keep checkin' 'em off. You don't need to run fast. You just need to finish it. And finish it running. Ok, call me crazy.

So, it's the middle of week seven. I've run 181 of the ~375 miles that will get me to and through the marathon. I've run a 14 mile long run, and have a 16 miler planned for this Sunday. I've run Heartbreak Hill. :-) Transitioning from primarily treadmill and trail running to asphalt has been a shock, but I’m finally adjusting and ran a 9 mile midweek run yesterday and recovered quickly.

The marathon is a huge commitment that becomes more real each day. Every day there is a plan that is based around the run. Food - what it is, how much and when it's eaten has an impact on the run. Sleep and stress, they impact the run. Every run leads to the marathon. Pretty soon it becomes clear that each choice and each action is ultimately going to effect the marathon. It's not an obsessive realization, it's a calm and deliberate one. It's just being mindful about the impact of each action. It's understanding through each running experience, what's worked and what hasn't. What to do next for a better outcome.

Last night I dreamed for the first time about the marathon. I dreamed about not being able to finish it. I think this was influenced by a blog I read (another first time marathoner). It was quite sobering. Up until now I have worked hard to push all limiting thoughts out of my psyche. I know through enduro-hiking days that one foot goes in front of the other, one breath goes in and out again, and that one can stay calm and quietly focused on a goal until its reached. I've done several one day mountain range traverses spanning up to nine mountains and 19,000 feet of elevation change, generally covering 26 to 30 miles in 10-12 hours. It's not easy, and that's why I do it. The marathon will follow the same path. It's a wildly personal journey that one experiences with 25,000 strangers. When I think about it, the marathon has become an ultimate goal. It's not just helping me fill a gap of time when I'd otherwise not be hiking. It's not just keeping me motivated or pushing me to the next level. This marathon represents a huge personal challenge, and a huge personal opportunity for me to get to know more about myself. This marathon just might be my Everest, in that sense.

Any Long Run Ideas? - Andrew

2010-03-11T08:09:00.002-05:00

The weather was amazing! It was slightly cool on Saturday morning, March 7, but perfect for a long run. I started at 10:00 am at Alewife Station and ran along the minuteman bikeway through Arlington, Lexington and ending in Bedford. I ran out to the end of the pathway and back, a total of 20 miles! I am not sure I will run another 20 miler before the marathon, but now I know what it feels like. I struggled the last couple of miles, but managed to finish. I was very sore afterward and in desperate need of a massage, which I never got. The best part of the run was the sunshine and the smell of pines trees along the trail. There were lots of people out on the path enjoying the weather. Unfortunately, I lost my running gloves and favorite running cap somewhere along the trail. I had wedged it under my fuel belt, and at some point it fell out. Aside from that, it was a good training day.

Yesterday I ran home from Newton-Wellesley Hospital. What a great run! It was cool again, but the sun was still out. It was a total of eight miles and I did it under an hour! What surprised me is that I had not run since last Saturday, when I did my long run. I started running along Washington Street and then turned right at Comm Ave. I ran along Commonwealth Avenue, up heartbreak hill, and then turned right just past Boston College. I headed down to the Chestnut Hill Reservoir, looped the reservoir, and then down Lake Street back home. I felt pretty good afterwards, unlike after my run on Saturday. I will probably run again today, take Friday off and then another long run on Saturday. Any ideas on where I should do my long run this Saturday? So far, I have run a different course for each long run every Saturday.

Running for a Cause – Tom and Sylvie

2010-03-10T08:56:00.001-05:00

Tom
Last week, I was in such a good place. Sunday, February 28, Sylvie and I went for an 18 mile run (that turned out to be 19). We tested our ability to drink and eat gummy bears and both felt strong at the end of the run. I've been running four days a week, with two cross training days and a day of rest. Then, out of the blue I was hit with upper back pain this past weekend. Once I figured out it wasn't my heart or lungs (not as young as I used to be), I thought I could keep running. Sunday was a 15 mile run, as we had planned to cut back for a week to recover. It wasn't a bad run once I loosened up, though my energy level was low. The weather, however was magnificent. We ran in shorts and felt much lighter and warmer. But Sunday night was painful, with half the night spent in a recliner. There's no way that I can run right now. It seems to be a muscle pull/tear on the right side of my back/chest wall – who knew such a thing could happen? Many thanks to the Newton-Wellesley team: doctor and Physical Therapy who saw me right away and are helping me back to form. I'll do some cardio on the Shipley Fitness Center bikes, stretch and rest for this week. No long run this weekend but I plan to be back in action again next Tuesday. Hopefully, I remember to cut back a little on meals this week – you really do eat more with this amount of running.

Thanks to all the people around the Hospital who stop me to recount a marathon experience or give me words of encouragement. Of course, a few tell me how glad they are that they ran the Marathon when they were 25 (and not at your age, they seem to imply) but I can take it. It's great to have the support. I remind friends outside the Hospital that we're running to benefit an important community program, the Vernon Cancer Center at Newton-Wellesley. I'll look forward to seeing that sign for inspiration on April 19.

Sylvie
This spring, I am trying to train “by the book,” taking a more scientific approach – Tom’s influence. In the past, because of my yearly high mileage base, I tended to wing it when it came to running marathons. I guess I am training smarter, we shall see. But, for me, it is a fine line: I like to keep it simple – it is the beauty and poetry of running – just put on my shoes and head out in the fresh air. I am a loner as a runner: I run best by myself, lost in my thoughts. And I don't like to bother with the fancy technology - the complicated watches, the heart monitors, the training logs, even the running jargon. What is nice though is to run for a cause, because running often feels like it is all about oneself. As Tom has mentioned, there are ups and downs, but for me, who loves to run, if I am out there in motion, it is a good day and I am glad to be alive.

Need More Pockets! – Maureen

2010-03-09T11:52:00.001-05:00

Less than six weeks to go!! Still so surreal. Although as my long runs get longer, it's slowly sinking in that I'm actually doing this. I went out early this past Sunday and was loving the gorgeous weather. I ran part of the marathon route – from Newton-Wellesley to Coolidge Corner and back, just about 15 miles. I only had minor hip pain throughout and actually felt stronger during the second half of the run, which surprised me because that's usually when my limping kicks in. I attributed it to the weather, my new neoprene water bottle holder with the hand strap that my mom found for me and the updated running playlist on my iPod. I like to run to songs that match my cadence (about 180 steps/minute)... there's nothing like a great, upbeat song to keep you moving when you really just feel like stopping! I've also stepped up my stretching, incorporated my new physical therapy exercises and I never leave home without my tennis ball (aka my portable hip massager).

Aside from my hip, the only problem I've been having on my long runs is that I carry too much stuff in my one available pocket... I have my bag of jelly bellies, a packet of Powerade gel (that I actually have yet to experiment with), my house key, chapstick, my backup nano (ridiculous, yes; but sometimes I forget to fully charge my Touch) and my gloves (if I get too hot). Knowing me, the one time I decide not to bring something will be the one time I actually need it.

This Saturday I'm planning on doing 17 miles along the Charles, from Watertown Square to the Museum of Science and back. I'm excited because I'll have a running partner for the first time! My uncle, who has a lot of marathon experience, has kindly offered to run with me (even though our pace will probably seem like a fast walk to him!). Yay, more pockets to hold my stuff!

Could Have Kept Going – Annie

2010-03-08T13:49:00.000-05:00

There's been one big change in my training this past week – I started driving to and from work every day. Previously I had been commuting via bus and T, which I quite liked, but it's been hard to sandwich the increased running hours into a day that is already full of work, commute, rehearsal, social engagements – the list goes on. I figured I could control my schedule a bit more, and chop off at least an hour of commute time by driving, and thus far it is proving to be true! It's much more doable for me to get my workouts done in the morning when I can cruise over from Cambridge in 20 minutes flat, AND snag a primo parking spot for making a quick getaway at the end of the day. I miss my reading time and a carefree, traffic-less existence, but it's been a good choice for these months of training.

My knees had been hurting me last week, but that went away about midweek. I've ordered myself a new pair of shoes, identical to those I ran Chicago in and have (still – eek) been running in, and they should arrive in the next few days, which is great. Proper footgear is key!

I went out to Petersham, where my parents live in central MA, this past weekend for a little break from city life and a change of scene for my long run! My sister and I were due to run 12, and with the fantastic weather, I feel like I could've kept going! We had some killer hills mixed in, which was excellent – I want to get more hill workouts incorporated into my training. It felt like summer weather and was one of the absolute most pleasurable long runs I've ever had.

I'll be doing 18 this weekend in Worcester, and it looks like rain, so the memory of Saturday's idyllic, sunny run may have to hold me over!

Hills of Newton - Annie

2010-03-01T11:05:00.001-05:00

I am beginning to realize the increasing importance of sleep while training for a marathon. The long runs will wear you out, and adding the cold, inclement weather to it takes you to another level of exhaustion! My sister/training buddy and I drove to NWH on Saturday morning and ran in on the race route to Fenway Park, and then back out for a total of 16 miles. Serendipitously, we encountered Administrative Fellow Andy Wurtzel and his wife Lauren out for a run also, and they generously provided us with water on our way back! Thanks Andy and Lauren! We ran through a snow squall that later turned to rain in the last few miles - tough. I loved getting out on the course, though, and experiencing those infamous Newton hills. Honestly, they are not too bad, though I may be singing a different tune when I charge up them at mile 20! It was also great to be out running with many other people who were training for Boston, and on their long runs. Definitely a major feeling of runner solidarity.

The weekend before last we ran our 15-miler out in Worcester, where my sister lives. It was a gorgeous spring-like day and we had a great route, into Holden from Worcester and then back by the beautiful Holden Reservoir.

I need to incorporate more stretching after the long runs. I had some knee weirdness at the end of Saturday's run, but it went away - though enough to make me aware and perhaps chat with some of the Physical Therapy/Shipley Fitness Center folks. I also definitely need to get a new pair of running shoes, which will hopefully help things!

This weekend's long run will take place out at my parents' bucolic place in Petersham - quite a change of scene! I look forward to it.

My Recent Runs - Andrew

2010-03-01T09:20:00.001-05:00

Saturday, February 27
It was difficult to get motivated today, but I set off on a 17.3 mile run. I wanted to do 18 miles, but the map said otherwise. I started in Brighton again. I ran through Watertown, Belmont, Lexington and Arlington. I ran out past Great Meadow, Whipple Hill and the Mormon Temple. It was a nice run, weaving through all these different neighborhoods. It was a lonely run though. I am sure that Beacon and Commonwealth get much more runners on the weekend. I try to pick a different route each week to mix up the scenery. One of these days, I am going to run out to the beach. The weather was OK today. It was cool and cloudy and I finished before light snow and rain started. Overall, it was a good run. If all goes well, and weather permitting, I will try to do 18 or 20 miles this next Saturday. I have some low back pain, but my legs feel pretty good.

Monday, March 1
I ran 6.5 miles in the gym this morning on the treadmill. Did I ever mention that I don't like running on treadmills. Well, I don't. At least it permits me to stay dry and warm while the weather outside is cold and wet. Again, I am looking forward to warmer weather and more outside runs. Good luck Team NWH on your training!

Running in Central Park – Maureen

2010-02-26T09:44:00.001-05:00

As more friends/family learn that I'm running in this year's marathon, I'm frequently being asked, “How is your training going?” I'm hardly ever a Debbie Downer but I haven't been able to give many positive responses to that question this week! My right hip is still giving me problems, which has been hindering my runs, and I came down with a nasty sinus infection in the beginning of the week that I'm still fighting off. However, I'm starting to see a light through the tunnel… I met with Carl Faust in Physical Therapy at Newton-Wellesley to figure out the cause of my hip pain. Apparently my scoliosis has a lot to do with it since my right hip is higher than my left. He gave me some exercises that should help out. I also got a deep tissue massage on my hips and legs yesterday - not the most pleasant experience! I feel great today though and plan on getting one or two more of them before the marathon.

I was in NYC visiting friends last weekend so I did my long run on Friday afternoon through Boston and along the Charles. The wind was ridiculous in certain spots - at one point it looked like I was running but I literally was not even moving! I was not pain free throughout but it felt good to complete it. My one goal while in Manhattan (provided my hip was feeling ok) was to do a run on Sunday in Central Park… and I did! It was a gorgeous morning and the run went well... all I was missing was my Red Sox hat ;-)

My goal this weekend is to do 15 miles… in dry, sunny weather… with zero hip pain. Not too much to ask, right?

Over the River and Through the Woods – Andrew

2010-02-26T09:38:00.000-05:00

I did not go to Grandmother's house, but I literally went over the river (Charles) and through the woods (Concord). Starting around noon, I ran from my apartment in Brighton to Concord (a total of 14.8 miles according to googlemaps). Much of the run was spent running along Trapelo Road and to my dismay it was uphill much of the way. Fortunately, Saturday was beautiful and sunny so I didn't mind the climb so much. Once I crossed over 95 (128), the scenery was much more picturesque. I passed by the DeCordova Museum, Bakers Hill and Walden Pond. I finished my run down Thoreau Street into the town of Concord. Concord is not very big, but big enough to have a commuter rail station. I took the train back into Boston (Porter Square) and then the bus back home. The long runs do not seem to get any easier, and I need to start increasing the mileage. I love running outside, and hope it warms up soon. With all the torrential rain we have had recently, this Saturday does not look good. I do my long runs on Saturday, and Sundays are my day of rest.

Under the Weather – Donna

2010-02-26T09:37:00.000-05:00

This week's entry will be a short one. I've been battling a nasty cold along with caring for two sick toddlers… so by the end of the night running is something I can't even think about. I have also been researching training advice while battling a cold, to run or not run. Given the weather this week and my lack of sleep I opted to not run. Hopefully next week will be a bit more promising!

Outside Today...Rain and All - Tom

2010-02-25T16:36:00.001-05:00

My initial euphoria at running the Marathon has fallen with the barometric pressure and persistent rain this week. The realization hits home that there are many miles to run before April 19. Hopefully, we're not having a gray and rainy March. Seasonal Affective Disorder hasn't hit me yet this winter and I don't have time for indoor “light therapy”. Part of me is ready to run it this weekend and get those hours of running (and recovering from running) back. Still, I'm sure I'd just waste the extra time browsing silly sites on the Internet. By the way, my evening internet browsing has decreased with the training. You might suggest your teenagers take up marathon training.

I heard about a 30K race around the Wachusetts Reservoir in Clinton. It's next weekend, March 7. We're thinking of using it as a training run. It's said to be very hilly, a good prep for Boston, with drinks and support on the route. Sylvie and I talked about running part of the marathon course. I'm ambivalent and she's opposed so we won't be doing it. Her argument is that the course will feel more interesting if we stay off it. Anyone who's lived here for 30 years knows the second half of the course anyway. I'm still healthy and relatively happy, so time to signoff. I ran on a treadmill Tuesday, so it's outside this afternoon, rain and all.

Sprinting up Heartbreak - Andrew

2010-02-19T10:17:00.001-05:00

Training has been going fairly well so far. There have been no injuries to report, just sore muscles. I ran 15 miles last Saturday morning. I ran around the Charles River. It was cold but I managed to stay reasonably warm. I hobbled through the last couple miles, but I made it. I ran nine miles on President’s Day along Beacon Street and Commonwealth Avenue (around Chestnut Hill and Newton). I actually felt great after my run and was able to sprint up Heartbreak Hill without passing out. It was nice to have a little sunshine Monday afternoon. I do shorter runs in the mornings before work at a gym. I am not fond of running on treadmills, so I am anxious for the weather to warm up a bit so I can do more runs outside. I met someone who has run the Boston before and he gave me some tips on running.

A Little Extra Rest – Maureen

2010-02-18T08:54:00.000-05:00

It's just less than nine weeks out and so far my runs have been going well... my body has been feeling the effects though. My shin splints that I had in the beginning are gone but I've been experiencing soreness in my right hip and left knee during and after my runs. I've decided to only do two runs this week. Icing has helped, as well as Epsom salt baths (CVS makes lavender-scented salts... who knew??). I'm hoping that my extra rest this week also helps put me back on track.

Last Saturday I did my long run on Comm. Ave. to Boston College – my first experience with Heartbreak Hill! It was kind of fun being out there with so many other runners... I felt like I was in a road race. Like Annie mentioned in her first post, there is this sense of camaraderie when you're out there. It was one of those mornings that makes me excited to get out and run... it was cold but the sky was blue, I had some good tunes on the iPod and for once I didn't feel as though I was running through a wind tunnel. I decided to experiment with Sport Beans and regular Jelly Belly beans and felt pretty good. Still need to figure out my hydration situation though. Running with a water bottle in hand is not fun so I think I'm going to give in and buy a water belt.

I'm slowly learning where friends and family are going to be situated along the route on marathon day, which is exciting. Knowing they are out there will definitely help to keep me motivated. Maybe I can convince a few to keep a stash of Jelly Bellies for when I come shuffling by? ;)

The Countdown Begins – Donna

2010-02-17T10:37:00.000-05:00

I’ve traded in my skis for my running shoes this winter. While my family is skiing on the weekend I’m doing my training runs in Vermont. Last week was a good week for me although I need to start picking up the mileage on the longer runs.

It was nice to have Monday off and the extra time to plan out my training. It’s rare that I get to run in the afternoon and with my good friend Cindy. On Monday we did a five mile recovery run and I was able to get some great advice and insight on what to expect since she has done the Boston Marathon for the past couple of years.

Most of my training runs are on the “Heartbreak Hill” route of the race. These runs always give me a reality check on where I am in my training. I was feeling pretty good and I’m starting to get excited. I can’t believe it’s just nine weeks out!

As the training falls into place I find that I need to start focusing on my eating habits and cutting out a lot of the treats. This is tough if you have ever walked around our department. I believe we have some of the best bakers that work at Newton-Wellesley Hospital.

The countdown has started, hopefully the snow will get cleared away soon and I can get outside.

Lessons Learned - Tom

2010-02-16T14:04:00.000-05:00

Lessons from this past week:
- Rest and sleep are more important than I realized.
- Pay more attention to nutrition and water.
- This training business takes a lot of time.

It's amazing how much training advice is out there in cyberspace. I could spend entire evenings on marathon training sites (and buy all sorts of equipment). Don't know if it's right or wrong, but we're trying to keep it simple. The long run yesterday was hard for me. Sylvie felt good, so she was able to keep me going. I've mostly run alone over the years but it's nice to have a partner for the long runs. But, Sunday was also just run and recovery. I didn't do anything else during the day except read the paper, nap and watch the Olympics. (Cross country skiing must have the most physically fit athletes.)

Nine weeks to the marathon. It's snowing today, so I'll be on the Shipley Fitness Center treadmill later this afternoon

Not Feeling So Hot - Annie

2010-02-16T14:00:00.000-05:00

Training this week has been a little harder, as I have been dealing with a pretty nasty cold. I skipped cross-training on Monday, and took rest days both Monday and Tuesday. I still got all my mid-week miles in however, as I did 6, 4 and 4 on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, as opposed to the 3,7,4 sequence that Hal Higdon had laid out for me. It all works out! I usually push myself for speed when on the treadmill, but took it pretty easy due to my not feeling so hot.

I've also been eating lots of fruits and veggies this past week, and getting more sleep than normal. I am going to try to keep this trend alive, and not just an exception as I am getting over a cold. After a great rest day on Saturday, I did a tough 11 miles for my long run on Sunday, with the last 2 to 3 miles running into a strong wind off the Charles. Ugh. Thankfully I had my sister as a running buddy and we powered through it together!

This week's mid-week runs are 3,7,4 and I will hopefully be at 100% to work some speed into the treadmilling. I'll definitely try doing that for the seven miler, as the less time spent on the machine, the better. Good impetus for being speedy!

Why I'm Running - Andrew

2010-02-09T10:33:00.000-05:00

I have been running off and on for several years. I started running my last year at Brigham Young University. I never ran track and field or cross country. When I moved to Boston I found runners everywhere. Boston is the marathon mecca and hosts the prestigious Boston Marathon.

One of my favorite places to run is the Charles River. I also like exploring other trails in and around Boston/New England. I do not train regularly, but I usually get in some runs on the weekends, weather permitting. I enjoy running as it gives me a chance to explore the outdoors and exercise at the same time. I have run several half marathons and two marathons. I have run races in Townsend (TN), Boston, New York City, Moab (UT), and Salt Lake City.

Why am I running in the 2010 Boston Marathon? How could anyone not want to run in the Boston Marathon? It is one of the most exciting annual events in Boston. There are so many participants, spectators and volunteers from all over the country/world. I am running in the 2010 Boston Marathon to help raise money for the Vernon Cancer Center and the Newton-Wellesley Hospital Charitable Foundation. I am also running because it is exciting to participate in the same race with elite runners, the Hoyt’s and so many others. Team Hoyt has always been an inspiration to me. I am also running because it is a challenge.

My plan for training is to run as much as possible over the next ten weeks. I just found out a couple of weeks ago that I would be participating. How does training for a marathon affect my daily life? I have to get up earlier, eat more/better and sleep better. It is exciting to have something like this to prepare for.

My only two concerns are that the weather will be too cold or too hot on race day… Oh yeah, the third concern is hitting “the wall.” I try not to think about it too much. I ran 13 miles last Saturday and I felt great. This was a surprise since I have only run five times (short distances) before this over that last couple of months!

Excited to Run 26.2 – Maureen

2010-02-08T13:47:00.000-05:00

I started running almost 12 years ago. One of my roommates at the time was a big runner, so she inspired me to try it. I started out by just walking a mile away from our house, turning around, and jogging back; gradually increasing the distance little by little as I got used to it. I still remember experiencing my first runner's high... as well as the first time I found out what shin splints felt like! It didn't take long for me to become hooked though.

I grew up in the Boston area so it means a lot to me to be running in the Boston Marathon. I lived on the marathon route in college and know how exciting and motivating the “Marathon Monday” atmosphere is. I'm generally a three to five mile runner so I'm still in slight disbelief that I'm training for this! I've also dealt with a serious lung condition since I was little and had to undergo a pulmonary lobectomy four and a half years ago. Many people run to lose or maintain their weight but I literally run for the health of my lungs. Training for (and completing) a marathon is a chance to prove to myself how far I've come since my surgery.

This will be my first marathon and I hope to get through it injury free. My plan includes running three days a week (two shorter tempo runs and one long run on Saturdays), strength training two days a week, and foam rolling/stretching daily. Weather permitting, I'd like to do all of my runs outside instead of on a treadmill and I'm trying to be diligent with my rest, recovery and nutrition. Aside from my Friday nights being a little more low-key these days :) marathon training hasn't affected my daily life too much. However, training definitely forces me to prioritize my day differently. I can think of other things I'd rather be doing than running into a headwind on a 20 degree day with snow coming at me sideways but my training runs come first and I schedule them in as I do with any other appointment during the day.

My main concern is that I got a late start with training, which won't allow me to get in as many longer runs as I'd like, so I worry that may hurt me. I want to be smart about my training though so I'm not willing to take huge jumps in weekly mileage just to fit in more 18+ mile runs. I'm also a little apprehensive about experimenting with food during my runs. Before training began, I typically ran first thing in the morning so I'm not used to having food/water in my belly. I have to start getting my body used to it though!

I never thought I'd be excited to run 26.2 miles, but I am! I'm so grateful for the opportunity to be running in this marathon and very much look forward to April 19th.

My First Marathon - Tom

2010-02-08T13:30:00.000-05:00

I started running in college, influenced by friends who were runners. During medical school and residency training, running was a good release from the stress of work. I tried to run a marathon during medical school but was injured during training (probably over-training). So, I concentrated on shorter, more intense runs and recreational 5-10K races. Then work, family and life took over. I ran infrequently for many years, though I tried to stay physically fit. The Shipley Fitness Center is a tremendous benefit. I can work-out after work (occasionally before) and not risk a loss of motivation on the drive home.

My wife, Sylvie Houbart is the distance runner in our family. She prefers longer runs, but only recently started running marathons. In October, she ran the Newport, RI marathon and convinced me to run the first half with her. You may remember that October Sunday when the Patriots were playing in a snowstorm. In Newport, we had cold rain and heavy winds – a miserable day! I finished the half marathon with her and the weather only worsened for the second part. Still, we both finished and concluded that if we could run in that weather, we can run in any conditions. Gore-Tex is amazing.

Why run the Boston Marathon this year? I'll get to train and run with Sylvie. I don't know if I could do the long weekend runs alone every week. We'll run for a cause that's close to me – the Joan and James Vernon Cancer Center. As you'd imagine, Dr. Vernon welcomed me enthusiastically to the Newton-Wellesley Hospital Medical Staff when I arrived in 1985. Once we discovered common interests outside of work (golf, anyone?), I soon met Joan. Of her many gifts, she made me feel as though we'd known one another all our lives.

My training plan: run three to four times a week, cross-train and rest once a week, at least. Long runs on Sundays. Try to avoid injury. I ran my third long run today, with Sylvie and Pogo, our seven-year-old Standard Poodle. We ran for two hours, 13+ miles. It was cold and windy but not as bad as Newport! Our kids are grown and out of the house, so I have no excuses. Tomorrow, a rest day....hooray.

Excited to Be Part of the Team! – Annie

2010-02-08T13:29:00.000-05:00

I started running about five years ago, with my first race a 10K in Washington, DC, where I lived at the time. My big sister, a runner and cross-country coach, was a huge inspiration to me to get started with it, and continues to be an incredible resource and cheerleader. I love long-distance running: the endurance aspect, the challenge, the discipline.

My first (and only thus far) marathon was the 2008 Chicago Marathon - a truly amazing experience, through 25 neighborhoods, with unbelievable crowd support. I trained through the long, hot summer for this fall race, with the goal simply to finish and have fun, which I certainly did! I wore my Boston Red Sox baseball cap in the race, drawing quite a bit of good-natured heckling from the Chicago spectators, which spurred me on to the finish. My training had prepared me very well, and I finished strong, with not even a blister!

At the risk of sounding cheesy, it truly is a dream come true to be able to run the Boston Marathon. With the support of my family, friends, Newton-Wellesley colleagues and pretty much the entire Boston area, I know this will be quite a day.

I used well-known marathoner and coach Hal Higdon's training plans to put together my own routine, with a general weekly model of four running days (one long, one medium, two short), one cross-training day, and two rest days. Though at first I may have grumbled, I love the weekly long runs outside in the cold. It's an incredible way to get to know all parts of Cambridge/Boston, with a favorite loop thus far from Harvard Square down to Jamaica Pond. I also love the solidarity between all of us bundled up runners, out for a few hours on a blustery afternoon.

As the midweek distances get longer, it will begin take up more and more time, and will become even more of a focus in my daily life. I know I'll need more and more sleep, for sure! But it adds a very centering and purposeful routine, with the ultimate goal always in sight. I am so excited and thankful to be a part of the NWH 2010 Boston Marathon Team!

On the Team - Donna

2010-02-05T11:11:00.000-05:00

My name is Donna and I work at Newton-Wellesley in the Health Care Quality Department. I started running almost three years ago after the birth of my second son. Like many runners, I find this activity is a time for me to tune out all the daily requests from family, work and life and just enjoy the time alone with my thoughts. My approach to running marathons is different than most, as my goal has never been about the time but is more about finishing the race. Previous to the upcoming Boston marathon, I ran the Amica Marathon in Newport, RI. I have always wanted to run the Boston Marathon. Many of my friends are on charity teams and tell me stories about the crowds and the runners they have met along the way. So when I heard about the NWH team, I put my name in for the drawing. Now that it's confirmed I’m on the team, the reality of training and where I need to be is starting to sink in. With the help of friends and trainers I know running this year will be an exciting and memorable experience. Most of my training takes place in the evening and, as most of you know, the weather in New England can be a challenge this time of year. One of my favorite quotes about running from Bill Bowerman is “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just soft people”. So if you see me among the many runners that train on Washington Street this time of year stop and say hello!