What running has done to me

Hi everyone,

Some of you have read my last blog and emailed/called me about it. It was written on a tuesday am at like 6AM. I was awake and figured I would use that extra time to tell me donators, friends, family and colleagues the full marathon experiece.

I am sure there are details that are missing, but I think you got the picture!

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank everyone that has supported me throughout this experience. the friends that have put up with my constant marathon talking, the friends that have stayed there even though I demanded to meet at home vs. going out on the town, the family and friends that donated their money for a great cause, the colleagues that checked up on me after every single long run and came by to congratulate me after the race, my mom and my dad for making the trip and putting up with my frenetic pre-race stress, my very close friends for being there in my heart and on the side lines for the 26.2miles....all of you...it's been great! and thank you so very very much :-)

I see now more than ever how great running is and how great it has been to run this marathon with team for kids.

I have become so much more mellow. Yesterday something "bad" happened. Two days ago too. the only difference in my reaction was if I had gone running recently or not. Two days ago, i was on my 5th day without running and I snapped and got cranky and did not let go. Yesterday, the problem just flew right over me. I let it go and focused on more positive things. I cannot even start to explain how important that is for my wellbeing!!!

It's not that I don't care about things anymore, I am just as passionate, but those things that bothered me and stayed with me now seem to fly over top of me.

For that reason, i will keep on running.

In regards to the marathon and my time.

I read a book this summer on running. the only one I was really allowed to read, because it seems that otherwise I was becoming obsessive (thanks to those friends that are close enough that they feel they can tell me that, i needed to hear it!!). The author said, running a marathon is not a competition vs. the other runners. i am guessing that for the athletes, it is. In my little under 5hour world, it's not about the others. It's selfishly about me only. I wanted to finish close to 4h30, well under 5hours. I did not reach that goal and I am disapointed. Did I not finish in a decent time understanding that I was in pain early on and sad to have missed my mother at mile 8? Yes, but as i never take it easy on myself, I am disapointed.

As some of you might know, I decided not to commit to any races before today. Monday has come and here are the options:

- run the paris marathon - april 2010 (start of training dec 1st)

- sign up for a triathlon in april/may

- sign up to climb a mountain (i thought that was a fun new idea)

- sign up for one half marathon every 2 months until I reach a decent time (this last part is tricky)

- sign up for the chicago marathon (oct 2010)

No decisions yet made. I might sleep on it a couple more nights...

On the "am i a runner" topic. I was running in Miami this weekend and took a look at the other runners. Their shoes, t-shirts, shorts, speed....I guess I feel more of a runner than those people. But I also feel that my casual pace does not put me in the "serious" runner category. This bodes the question, what really a makes a runner? Someone that runs often? someone that runs long distances? someone that runs fast?

Keep on following my running adventures, they are not over yet :-)

Cheers

My first marathon or how I am really still not a runner!

Hi everyone (or no one!!),

We are now Tuesday November 3rd, two days after the marathon - for those I haven't talked to, here is the recap. Before that. A HUGE thanks to all those that donated. I could not have done it without you :-)

Saturday was a big day (day before marathon day). I met up with my parents at tavern on the green. My dad had flown in at that point from France to cheer me on with my mom. All 6 firls were there: Heather (my running buddy), Katrina, June, Farzana and Meagan. Mom and Meagan's mom starting some serious bonding. I could already see some serious BFF behavior emerging, as I listend to "it's not about us today/this weekend, it's about them" (now that's what I like to hear!!).

Stress was palpable, even though the cute french firemen sort of distracted me for a little bit. We recognized the biggest donators, one of them reaching some $80,000. AMAZING! How many kids we have helped this season! One of them had been there the night before at our little rally. It was great to see what we could do. He said, running gave him confidence in himself, better grades because if he didn't make them he would be kicked out of the team and a healthy lifestyle.

On a side note, I haven't really mentioned this throughout this experience but the entire Team for Kids team has been amazing. I talk a lot about Sid. Asteria has been amazing as well. All other coaches, Frank, Glen, Michael, Erik and Brian have been Great. Zakia and Gail, behind the scenes have always been so very helpful. The reason I mention this is on saturday came over to our table at breakfast and she was glowing, excited and jittery like a kid. I was a face of stress and she was just so excited for us, for the lifechanging experience we were less than 12 hours away. It made me smile and boosted me, at least for a little bit.

All this taper madness had not prepared me for the level of stress I was experiencing at this point. I decided to leave with my parents. Unfortunately, I was so stressed out, that even my parents left to go shopping after a couple minutes. That's ok, I was welcoming a little alone time. I called Heather up to get our 1-2miles and stretch in. We ended up just walking, chatting and stretching.

When I returned, my parents arrived back to my house. Oh did I put them to work!! Mom was in charge of printing the letters on my singlet. Dad was filling gatorade bottles. Mom then sewed on some flags. I prepared my bag, outside, layed it out. Once they felt that I was calmer and stopped giving them more to do (lol!!), they left again. I fell asleep at that point. I was just so tired from getting up early for breakfast, from the excitement and most especially i guess from the stress!!

I met up with Farzana and her husband Nabeel, Meagan and her mom and finally my parents for some pasta. You should have seen us, sprinkling insane quantities of salt on that pasta. At one point, we were the only ones still eating while our familt stared at the amount of food going into our bodies!! It was perfect to be with those girls. I was still nervous and they calmed me, not necessarily by words, but by being there!

Time for some sleep and oh did I sleep!!! I slept like a baby that night!! I did get up at 4AM vs 5AM, but after verifying that I was up too early, I went back to sleep for another hour :-)

When it was finally time to get up, I was out the house in no time, having had everything nice and ready before I left. Heather and I headed over together. We weren't on the same bus, but I ended up being on the same bus as Farzana, Meagan and June. And coach sid!!! That coach just calmes me!! Maybe it's because he's 72 years old and still an amazing athlete. Or maybe because regardless that I am a just below 5hour marathon runner, he still talks to me as a runner (which I am still now!). It was also the PARTY bus with the entire team for padron gang. It was fun to hear them go nuts in the back. I wasn't feeling the "fun" at that point. I just wanted to zone out on my own. I did NOT expect the trip to take the 1h30 it took!!! Our bus had a police escort - that's always a really nice perk!!!

All 6 girls found each other and just chilled until it was time to head to our corrales. We were going to run this together, that was the objective!

Wave 1 and Wave 2 came and went. tic tac tic tac. No food could go into my body. I needed to pee really bad. My stomach was a mess. Stress was paramount. We all tried different things to distract ourselves - we took a lot of picture (I've got my pose DONE!), listening to music, walkin around...

Wave 3 was called. The floor was totally muddy which meant that our feet were sort of cold. but it was also meant that we didn't do ground stretching. One last hug to sid and asteria and we were off to the corales. Oh my god what a mess that was! We heard the pistole go off for wave 3 and we weren't even CLOSE to the bridge! there were so many people and it was so disorganized! Off we started on the bridge with our shoe laces tied and not going too fast. Heather and I stuck together. After mile 4 June and Katrine were def. going much faster than us, so Heather and I took back. Farzana and Meagan were also ahead. i wanted to still have stamina at the end so we let them go ahead. I got cheered on immediately and it's really amazing having people scream your name. You don't realize it until you are there!!

By mile 5 heather and I were counting down to see my mom. Mile 8 came and went and we didn't see my mom. A HUGE cloud came over me and as anticipated my IT band started hurting then. I was on a down spirale. We then stopped for at least 2 min for a toilet stop for Heather. I welcomed it, but it was hard to start over again. We ran through williamsburg and brooklyn with loads of cherring. people on the street were amazing. they helped a lot. i loved too the stores in BK :-) Heather and I will be back for some serious shopping!!!

Mile 14 came and I was so nervous to see my friends. From mile 8 to 14 we kept a really good steady 10:15 pace and under. I first heard my name loud, then turned and saw Eglantine and her beautiful smile. then Marie-Mona. I swinged right to go meet them. I must have hit eglantine really hard because I went right into her full speed! I whispered a "thank you" and was off with Heather. no photo op time, just time to be happy. i was almost crying. I think they carried me through the Queensboro brigde, which we crossed just after we saw them. Unfortunately, we then stopped again right after for the bathroom. My knee was really hurting then. I HATED 1st avenue. I really tried to be happy and excited about seeing my dad on 72nd street, but I guess I was expecting him not to be there, like my mom. Each stop I would massage my knee and IT band, but no help. I did see my dad with the huge sign my mom had done. i was happy to see him. Again a lot of emotions overwhelmed me.

We the continued up 1sdt ave. Heather was supposed to see her friend Steve, but missed him. You cannot imagine how HARD that is for the runners. You expect, you anticipate and then are disapointed. That being said, I then heard my name. I turned and saw my cousin and all our friends. i had forgotten they would be there!!! I was so happy to see them. Just a stop for a hug and I was off again. I couldn't even remember who all was there. but I was happy. It didn't help with the pain somehow, the negative spirale was there. i did not trust myself. I doubted my total strength. My garmin super GPS watch was also TOTALLY off and that made me completely confused. i think it stopped somewhere after I saw the girls on 14th street. It was telling me I was running 30min/mile!

Hiking up 1st avenue, i think we were running 11min/mile. Heather wanted to speed up, but I couldn't do it. We then reached the Bronx. We were amazing on the bridges, passing people and feeling great. Those were ipod times, to make sure we stayed focused! Queensboro bridge was the last time i took pictures. i wanted to enjoy the rest.

In the bronx I saw eglantine, marie and Danika! It was so nice to see them again. I red the signs they made, Gave a hug and continued along :) I somehow missed Lauren as she was right after them, but we continued along. We ere then seeig the same people, a lot of team for kids. Some people I knew, a lot I didn't. Every time i saw someone walking, I would tell them "you're doing great" and they would start running again. I don't know them, they don't know me but my words help me and it helps them as well.

I was in total pain and not feeling it at all. At that point the watch was working and were going SLOW. I was annoyed. I know I said i wanted to finish under 5 hours, but I was now way past 4h30 and i was scared i was going to be over 5 hours. I was mad at myself for being in pain, mad at myself for not being faster, mad at myself all in all. Heather looked even worse and that sort of distracted me. We plowed through 5th ave with ipods on. I needed focus. I know the crowds were cheering, but i needed to focus on not wanting to quit. God that 5th avenue is one bitch HILL! I hated it. There were some really good signs though and they were so welcomed!!

On 90th street, we came into the park. I felt AMAZING at this point. I started going faster. but then slowed down. I was excited about finishing this race with Heather, not by speeding the last 3 miles and finishing without her. somehow that was more important then. we stupidly slowed down for water and that was a BAD idea. it was hell to start up again. some friends were supposed to be on 5th ave so i hug the left. i tuend off the ipod as i turned onto 5th ave and that curb - all these eyes were looking at us. no noise. I thought for a second, i had made a mistake stopping the ipod. but then we started on the left on 5th. all the crowds there were amazing "go heather, go emily! you are looking great". i was so happy. i was in total pain, but it was good. we got back into the park. heather saw her family and friends and started crying. "stop crying, you'll look horrible in the pictures!" i told her. as I hugged the right side where my parents got bleecher tickets I heard my mom yell, i mean, scream to the top of her lung my name. I turned, looked at her, smiled and then sprinted. for those that know me, i loooooove those sprints. they keep me going during the runs. this one was AMAZING. my legs were flying, as i wizzed through everyone, zigzagging through everyone in front of me. I finished with my hands raised high! Smile for the finish line picture!!!

Ok - conclusion? 4:48:16

I am still disapointed with that time. disapointed in me for not having done better. i know that's horrible, but in a week i won't care anymore i am sure, as Eglantine said.

one last time - one HUGE thanks to family, friends, colleagues, donators for your support.

I am now only wearing my medal as decoration :-)

Now that I have done this, what next? send along ideas :-)

Cheers,

Hey all,

Probably one of the last posts - I've got my bib, which I am guarding with my life! My mom is in town to cheer me on and take care of me in these last moments.
It's been all in all an AMAZING journey: physically, psychologically and personnally. the girls, the team, the sport. It's weird that it's almost over.
Can you believe sunday? 40,000 crazy runners, over 4Million ppl watching. I just can't believe it. Watching a video of it the other day, I cryed. I can't wait for the big day to come.


Here are again the cheering stations. Remember to tell me where you will be so I can look for you. Come early, be patient and have a great smile, trust me it will go miles!

mile 8: Official Team for Kids cheering station - I will be crossing between 11:42-11:52AM
Brooklyn (Just before Mile 8) – 4th Avenue at the corner of Pacific Street, 1 block from Atlantic Avenue and Flatbush Avenue. The cheering station entrance is near the N, R train on the Southeast corner, by P.C. Richard. Take the D, M, N, R to Pacific Street.

mile 14: official team for kids cheering station - I will be crossing between 12:53 and 1:04PM
Queens (Just before Mile 15) – The foot of the Queensboro Bridge at Crescent Street and Queens Bridge Plaza South. Take the 7, N or W to Queensboro Plaza or the E, R, V to Queens Plaza.mile 16: (5/6 train to 59th street and a couple blocks east) - I will be crossing around 1:14PM

mile 20.5: Official Team for Kids cheering station - I will be crossing around 1.55PM
Bronx (About Mile 20.5) –Graham Triangle–138th Street and 3rd Avenue. Take the 6 to 138th Street and 3rd Avenue or take the 4, 5 to 138th Street and Grand Concourse.

mile 22 : Official Team for Kids cheering station - I will be crossing around 2:05PM
Harlem (Mile 22) – Marcus Garvey Park (West 122nd Street and Mount Morris Park West). Take the 2, 3 to 125th Street and Malcolm X Boulevard/Lenox Avenue or take the 4, 5, 6 to 125th Street and Lexington Avenue.

mile 24: In the Park - 5th avenue and 84th street I will be crossing around 2:26PM

Anywhere in the park, I will need support. This will be the hardest part. What they call the wall. Just let me know where exactly you will be so I can keep an eye out.

Best places to cheer (in terms of when I will need you) are: up 1st avenue, down 5th avenue and inside the park. Just let me know where you will be and I will make sure to look for you!!!

Remember, don't tell me "you're almost there", because unless I am at 26.1, I'm really not and will most probably be in pain. In place, tell me "looking good!" "wohoo" "great job". At the 21 mile run, a TFK person told me "you're looking great, keep it up!" with a huge smile and that carried me through the finish line :-)

Can't wait for the big day to come :-)
Cheers,

3 days to go

Guys,

I will make this quick. Three pics:

1. My singlet. This is how you will spot me during the race

2. my team - those ppl that have made me a better version of me. I know it's corny and all that...but it's totally true

3. last night's run - NO PAIN IN THE LEGS!!!

I know I've become obsessional, but I can't help it - there is a term for it: tamper madness. They ask us to run less, are they NUTS?

I am freaking out about weather (possible rain!!!),

what to wear,

getting up on time (why do they have to change the time the NIGHT before the marathon)

having warm enough clothes for the start line

having enough clothes for the finish line,

what my "finish line picture" will look like,

that my leg will be feeling better,

that my legs will hurt too much

that i will be able to run with my running buddies the entire way,

that will end up runing on my own,

that i will not cross the finish line,

that i will cross it falling (dream 2 nights ago)

that i will cross the finish line in terrible timing

that i won't see my friends along the way

that my singlet letters will fall off and no one will cheer for me

...I think that's about it for this morning...enough already no????

Cheers mates - let me know when and where you will cheer.

Great tracking way:

My Bib number is: 47863
http://athletealert.ingnycmarathon.org/Alerts.aspx

5 days to go - cheering stations

Hi everyone,

Just a recap of cheering stations as we get closer to the big Day - only 5 days to go, this is unbelievable!!

mile 8: Official Team for Kids cheering station - I will be crossing between 11:42-11:52AM
Brooklyn (Just before Mile 8) – 4th Avenue at the corner of Pacific Street, 1 block from Atlantic Avenue and Flatbush Avenue. The cheering station entrance is near the N, R train on the Southeast corner, by P.C. Richard. Take the D, M, N, R to Pacific Street.

mile 14: official team for kids cheering station - Iwill be crossing between 12:53 and 1:04PM
Queens (Just before Mile 15) – The foot of the Queensboro Bridge at Crescent Street and Queens Bridge Plaza South. Take the 7, N or W to Queensboro Plaza or the E, R, V to Queens Plaza.

mile 16: (5/6 train to 59th street and a couple blocks east) - I will be crossing around 1:14PM

mile 20.5: Official Team for Kids cheering station - I will be crossing around 1.55PM
Bronx (About Mile 20.5) –Graham Triangle–138th Street and 3rd Avenue. Take the 6 to 138th Street and 3rd Avenue or take the 4, 5 to 138th Street and Grand Concourse.

mile 22 : Official Team for Kids cheering station - I will be crossing around 2:05PM
Harlem (Mile 22) – Marcus Garvey Park (West 122nd Street and Mount Morris Park West). Take the 2, 3 to 125th Street and Malcolm X Boulevard/Lenox Avenue or take the 4, 5, 6 to 125th Street and Lexington Avenue.

mile 24: In the Park - 5th avenue and 84th streetI will be crossing around 2:26PM
Anywhere in the park, I will need support. This will be the hardest part. What they call the wall. Just let me know where exactly you will be so I can keep an eye out.

Best places to cheer (in terms of when I will need you) are: up 1st avenue, down 5th avenue and inside the park. Just let me know where you will be and I will make sure to look for you!!!
Remember, don't tell me "you're almost there", because unless I am at 26.1, I'm really not and will most probably be in pain.
In place, tell me "looking good!" "wohoo" "great job". At the 21 mile run, a TFK person told me "you're looking great, keep it up!" with a huge smile and that carried me through the finish line :-)

Can't wait for the big day to come :-)
Cheers,

Inspirational quote from teammate

"Your biggest challenge isn't someone else. It's the ache in your lungs and the burning in your legs, and the voice inside you that yells 'CAN'T", but you don't listen. You just push harder. And then you hear the vo...ice whisper 'can'. And you discover that the person you thought you were is no match for the one you really are."

I could go on and on about what I learned during this training, but I feel like it would be repititive...welll, let me humor you all:

1. when there is a will, there is a way

2. nothing can be done without a good support system - family, team mates, coaches, friends (in random order of course!). As coach sid would say "all for one and one for all". God, I am going to miss coach sid!!

3. You should listen to your body - that thing knows you even better than you think you know yourself

4. that book "blue train" or something - the story of the train trying to pull the heavy load up the mountain chugging along and saying "i think I can, I think I can, I think I can" and then you did!!

5. running is not about competing with other people, it's about overcoming that belief that you cannot achieve your set goals. Running is very personal, it's an internal competition above and beyond anything else

That's all the profound thinking for now :-) Thanks to Jup, I am seeing a physical therapist and I feel a lot better. More work to be done, but this pain will be overcome and I will enjoy November 1st for sure!

Weather forecast is "Brilliant sunshine" and 60degrees F. Should be perfect for those tight short of mine :-)

Cheers mates

details about running day

Still time to give and make a difference!!

https://www.nyrrc.org/cgi-bin/start.cgi/mar-programs/nyrrf/team/2009/donations.htm

Please remember to indicate my entry number 366304 and last name (Villette)

Other cool updates:

I made and exceeded my fundraising goal - thanks to all of you! Without your help and support, I could never have made it! You are truly making a difference.
I hurt my leg - IT band pain. I am trying to keep a positive attitude, but everyday is a challenge. If you have minutes on your phone service, give me a call. Right now, I need all the support I can get. Quiting is out of the question

I am aiming to complete the marathon in a 10:15 pace - here are cheering stations and times I will pass them. If you are in NYC, come by. Per above, I will probably need to be carried through the finish line. Bring out all your positive energy!! Please understand that I might come earlier, but most probably later at these stations. If you are coming, let me know in advance where I can find you (side of street, and all that). There will be nothing more helpful than seeing your smiling faces in the crowd. I can't tell you how much that has helped in past races!! I am blessed that both my parents will be there to cheer me on, but let's spread the love along the course :-)
Here is a link on cheering stations also:
http://www.ingnycmarathon.org/spectator_guide.htm

mile 8.
I will be crossing between 11:42-11:52AM
Meet at train station exit on street. 2/3/4/5/BDMNRQ trains - Lafayette Ave and Clinton Av

mile 14. : 36min in train from mile 8 cheering point
I will be crossing between 12:53 and 1:04PM
Meet at train station exit on street. 7 train stop Vernon Blvd - Jackson Av.

Mile 16: 21 minutes from mile 14 cheering point
I will be crossing around 1:14PM
59th street and 1st avenue (5/6 train to 59th street and a couple blocks east)

mile 22 : 28 minutes from mile 16 cheering point // 41 minutes from mile 14 cheering point
I will be crossing around 2:05PM
5th av and 122 st. 2-3 train. meet at 2:10. She should be crossing at 2:22.

Mile 24: In the Park - 5th avenue and 84th street
I will be crossing around 2:26PM

You can follow me without being in NYC - with Athlete's Alert (service available starting Oct 26th so stay tuned!!)
My bib number is: 47863
Check out on ING Marathon websites for updates on how to track me in REAL time with this bib number
http://www.ingnycmarathon.org/

Post race drinks - Lauren and I are doing drinks. You are thinking, how could I be drinking? Well, it's either a lot of liquor or a lot of pain killers, so my choice was quickly made!! Here is the address and time: Bayard's Ales House, 533 Hudson Street (at Charles) - West Village @5:30PM

Stay tuned for more details as we get closer to race day...
Cheers

thanks to all and it's almost time....

Hi everyone,

As you all know, I have met and exceeded my fundraising goal. Thanks to all for your support in this cause and in my running.

We are now closing in on marathon day. It's scary and exciting at the same time! There is so much more to do and yet so much/so little time! (prep clothes, cheering stations, pre-race food, etc etc etc!)

I will be running with my two running buddies, Heather and June. Running the NYC half marathon with Heather was so much fun, I had trouble imagining running the marathon without them. It's going to be about being with friends, enjoying the scenery/experience and not being in too much pain. The only time objective I have is to finish under 5hours, which seems TOTALLY achievable. Right now, I would probably finish it in 4:30...

On that note, the IT band is still hurting, albeit all the stretching and icing. I guess God just wants to punish me. For what, I haven't figured it out quite yet....

Now is resting time. For all those in NYC, come by my place to hang out, but PLEASE, don't invite me to bars, restaurants, drinks, parties. Not allowed for the next two weeks :-( Only possible exception is Halloween next Saturday night...Somehow, I just can't let go that I won't be celebrating it this year!!

Guys, I can't wait. I know I sound like a broken record, but I just can't wait.

Cheers,

PS; here is a pic from yesterday's 11mi run - Brooklyn bridge. Heather and I both felt like we were bird flying!!!

watching sessions and beginning last preps

Hi everyone,

here is the tentative marathon day schedule for cheering stations - IF I keep my 10:15/mi pace (big GUESS). I should start around 10:20AM on November 1st. My bib number is: 47863

mile 8.
I will be crossing between 11:42-11:52AM
Meet at train station exit on street. 2/3/4/5/BDMNRQ trains - Lafayette Ave and Clinton Av
mile 14.
I will be crossing between 12:53 and 1:04PM
Meet at train station exit on street. 7 train stop Vernon Blvd - Jackson Av.
mile 16
I will be crossing around 1:14PM
59th street and 1st avenue (5/6 train to 59th street and a couple blocks east)
mile 22
I will be crossing around 2:05PM
5th av and 122 st. 2-3 train. meet at 2:10. She should be crossing at 2:22.

I should finish around 2:50PM. I am then headed to Cherry Hill at the Team for Kids tent. See you at the post-marathon drinks in the West Village!!! Remember, I get a really good high from running :-)

I will follow up later with the link to follow me directly online (not figured out that part yet...)

Cheers - can you tell I am SUPER excited

15 days away and the pain has been identified

Hi everyone,

A couple updates:

- we are now close to marathon day (it's on november 1st for those not following) - 15 days to go

- I have reached and exceeded my fundraising goal! Youhou!! Thanks to every single one of you for making a difference and helping the kids! It's a great cause and I am sooo happy :-)

- I finally found out what was wrong with my "ass" - I hurt my IT band. so it seems like it's a normal runner's injury. I have stretches that I do now, along with icing it after practice and trying to build strength too.

Overall - I am in GREAT spririt for the big day. A little nervous about not being allowed to run for long times (sort of got used to that, it helps me clear my mind)...but overall, knowing what was wrong with me has been a great relief.

In this 4/5 month training, the two reliefs were when I finally met the fundraising goal and now that I understand what is wrong with my ass/knee. As you followed, I was willing and ready to run 26.2mi with extreme pain...I sort of preferred knowing why and trying to fix it :-)

So, here is a pic from last week's long run - the end is in sight and fast approaching. thanks for all the support and I guess we'll be in touch for round 2 (another marathon, a couple half marathons or a triathlon??? who knows!)

Cheers

God, just let me run this marathon!!!!

Hi everyone,

Ok - here's the big news. I am hurt :-( Now it's been 2 weeks and it's not really getting better.

It started out in the ass after the 21 mile run (it had sort of started before, but was totally mild). Now the pain has moved to my knee. It's a knife cutting through my knee when I sit, when I stand, when I run, when I stop running and when I stress about sustaining that pain during 26.2 miles....

God is testing my nerve, my patience and my perseverance. Here me now: I will run this marathon. I will not walk it. And I will enjoy it

In terms of actions, since I hate the passiveness of problems...

I am seeing a chirorpractors twice or thrice a week

I am getting a massage at least once a week (I am thinking twice would be good...)

I am stretching extensively after warm up, after practice and whenever I feel like it

I am going to use my personal trainer time for additional stretching and weight lifting around the knee

I am not nervous about the marathon. I am excited about seeing my mom and my dad here from France to cheer me on. I am excited to see my other friends along the line. Or even random people cheering me on. I am even further excited about the drinking with friends after the race!

I am confident that I can do it. I am just scared that I can't do it in the pain that I am in right now. I want to believe that I can do with or without it, but I am slightly concerned that I might further injur myself really badly.

Say a little prayer for me - send me advise on how to fix this. Anything is welcomed right now...Just make me run this marathon

More news to follo - less than 21 days till the big day...

Oh a pic of my run in the fall folliage - got lost, it was hilarious!

A couple inspirational words

Hi everyone,

There was an article in the Wall street journal about marathon, runners and fitness. the guy had it so wrong in so many ways. Yes, it's nice to be toned and in shape, but that's not why I am doing the marathon. The bond I have built with my fellow running buddies is worth so much more! I feel like such a stronger person - I know far more what I am capable of, the limits I can push. Selling books door to door for 3 months, working 13 hours a day in 100degrees california starting showing that to me. This marathon took it a step further...

Here are some words that are giving me goose bumps! ad by asics
1: HELLO STARTING LINE. GOODBYE DOUBT.
2: HELLO BROOKLYN. GOODBYE FEAR.
3. HELLO SPECTATORS. GOODBYE NERVES.
4. HELLO LITTLE WATER CUPS. GOODBYE ANXIETY.
5. HELLO SUNSET PARK. GOODBYE UNCERTAINTY.6
. HELLO HEADWIND. GOODBYE GOOD ENOUGH.
7. HELLO COLD. GOODBYE CYNICISM.
8. HELLO WARM NUMBNESS. GOODBYE PAIN.
9. HELLO DON’T STOP NOW. GOODBYE ARROGANCE.
10. HELLO POUNDING HEART. GOODBYE OVERCONFIDENCE.
11. HELLO WILLIAMSBURG HIPSTERS. GOODBYE GIVING UP.
12. HELLO LITTLE POLAND. GOODBYE THE EASY WAY OUT.
13. HELLO HALFWAY POINT. GOODBYE OBSTACLES.
14. HELLO QUEENS. GOODBYE PESSIMISM.
15. HELLO ROOSEVELT ISLAND. GOODBYE COMFORT ZONE.
16. HELLO MANHATTAN. GOODBYE APATHY.
17. HELLO FIRST AVENUE CROWDS. GOODBYE CRAMPING.
18. HELLO DAUNTING HILLS. GOODBYE COASTING.
19. HELLO WALL. GOODBYE EGO.
20. HELLO THE BRONX. GOODBYE STRUGGLE.
21. HELLO MADISON AVE. GOODBYE DEMONS.
22. HELLO CENTRAL PARK. GOODBYE WEAKNESS.
23. HELLO ADORING FANS. GOODBYE PREVIOUS BEST.
24. HELLO BEAUTIFUL DOWN HILL. GOODBYE LIMITATIONS.
25. HELLO ALMOST THERE. GOODBYE DISBELIEF.
26. HELLO FINISH LINE. GOODBYE OLD ME.
.2 HELLO NEW YORK. GOODBYE GIVING UP!

22 days and it will race day. can't wait, can't wait!

Bake off day at work today - who makes the best chocolate cake - Piper or Me? Let's bring it on!!!

Cheers

23 days and counting...

Hi everyone,

I got my bib number (thanks Celia for showing me how to find that!!) My bib number is: 47863. I am part of General start #3

As some of you know, I hurt myself this last weekend. In an awkard place on top of that! My butt :-) It's actually fun asking for a butt massage, the reactions are mixed!

I've got a pre-marathon dinner organized with friends and family. I know what I am going to wear. Just need to get some paint and pens to write my name/messages on my bib. I know what I will eat during the race (chocolate gu- yum!). I know what I will drink: pink gatorade. I have worn in shoes that don't give me blisters anymore. I almost have all the cheering locations set. I also have post drink locale squared away. Not sure how to get home and change, but that's minor I guess...

I really just need to get my butt in action :-) My mind is set for this race. I can see my friends and family along the way, the music, the strangers calling my name. I can see and bear the pain while I run. I can imagine my mental state during the race. The excitment at first, the "just put on leg in front of the next" midway and finally, "let's finish this off with a cool sprint". I just want for it to happen already!!

One more day without running and saturday will complete my 15 miles in the Catskills. Just need one weekend of nature and peace before the last 2 weeks. I am guessing the "butt" issue is linked to stress as well...

Help me count down to November 1st - we're just 23 days away...

Cost of running

Hi everyone,

I won't replay the whole it's the final countdown song and all, but it's not fast approaching. Now I see how people say this is the hardest part. Soon, I won't be allowed to run, because of this whole "tapering" thing. I will get increasingly anxious and stressed about the race. And because I will get more stressed, I will want to run more...see the vicious cycle ahead???

Well, this is probably not going to happen. It seems I might have hurt myself :-(

My butt has been killing me for now 2 weeks, but most especially since last saturday. It's not a huge pain, more like a pinching. I guess there are worst places to hurt, but it's still not a pleasant feeling and it is not helping me to sleep (and rest) before the big day. Action is being taken - butt massage today :-) I'm telling you, it could be worse!

I am in great spirits after this saturday's run - I averaged 10:28 on the half marathon portion. The last sprint was GREAT! I increased speed to catch up with a fellow runner. Then I heard coach Frank tell me to "bring it home" and started my last 400m sprint. When I caught up with my fellow runner, he turned to me and told "let's sprint". At this point, my mind had decided NOT to finish behing my friend. I was already at my max sprint speed, but my mind had decided otherwise and we finished together. Runners behind me congratulated me on that last effort.

What is to be noted is that I had to stop for a full minute to stretch out a cramp during the race. The cramp did not go away, it actually then started spreading up and down my leg to my butt and to my toes. When I stopped running, my body took control again and yelled "I am in pain!!!!"

What I have learned from my books and from my training is that my mind is a bitch, one kick ass bitch! If I have decided that I will not finish this race walking, or stopping, then that won't happen. Saturday proved that much to me.

For giggles, here is a picture of me along the way saturday...with a smile on my face of course!

Cheers to all,

Big night before the last long run

Hey everyone (or no one!!!)

We are now officially less than 1 month away from big marathon day. Work now knows officially that I am running this insane marathon...and tomorrow is our last big run!

With good friend Danika, preparing my usual pre-run meal: loads of veggies, rice and proteins. A winning combo.

Here is a pic of my multitasking skills - testing out my new playlist, nibbling on some nice bread with artichoke tapenad and keeping friends abreast on sunday brunch plans :-)

If you are in NYC, come by central park to check it out and/or cheer. I can't wait, I just can't wait !

Cheers

“If you are going to win any battle you have to know one thing. You have to make the mind run the body. The body will always give up but the body is never tired if the mind is not.”

This last month will be all about preparing myself mentally. A great thanks to Eglantine. She gave me a book that has inspired me to get up and run every day of this week...

My mind is getting ready to tell my body that we are going to ROCK this marathon!

Any pieces of advice or suggestions are welcomed

Cheers,

I am 25 and a half

Hi everyone (or no one!!)

I can’t believe it’s been so long since my last entry! There will be a lot in this blog to update!!! Bear with me as I go through it…

First, there is still time to donate (yup yup yup!) – you know the drill: it’s easy, for a great cause and plain old good for your KARMA (hey New Year’s eve is closing in, got to stock up on good karma for next year!)
https://www.nyrrc.org/cgi-bin/start.cgi/mar-programs/nyrrf/team/2009/donations.htm
My entry number 366304 and last name (Villette)

Second, the winner of the France vs. US generosity contest. The competition was fierce, the donations were upped on a daily basis…but alas France proved the strongest. Ben Plaisant is the individual winner with a donation of $200. The kids (and me of course) thank you deeply J As promised, a $150 Godiva Gift Basket awaits you! I guess next time we cross paths in Paris…unless of course I “find” a ticket to go visit you in Quatar (that could happen)

Third, training and all other running considerations…
Last week was not a great week in terms of running – I only ran Monday night. I was high/super energized after the 20 mile run on Saturday September 18th. However, the crash was as hard starting Wednesday night through the end of the week. I felt exhausted and down. I made a call to stay low and rest my body before Saturday’s 12 mile run.
Saturday’s 12 mile run was amazing – see pictures attached. Vanessa kept us on pace and motivated us. We did two “speed” miles with an increased mile/min of +75%. We finished with an average of 9:30min/mile with peaks during our speed miles at 8:13 and 8:30. For those following for a while, this is OUTSTANDING! I don’t think I had pushed my running so hard since the 9mile run with Celia.
As expected, I have been hurting since then. If I had done an ice bath, that could probably have been avoided, but I am stubborn!
In parallel, I have been trying to tone down my slight running obsession. I put to rest my “intense” running books and took “what I talk about when I talk about running”. This book has been inspiring to me this week. I recommend it to all. Reading a runner’s 25year running story, I feel less stressed about the big day or even the runs coming up.
It also motivated me to give it my all (within my bodies’ limits) until October 15th. As my close friends know, I am NOT a morning person. May I proudly announce: I have been starting my runs for now 3 days in a row at 6:30AM! Yup you read that right. Seeing the sun rise on the reservoir has been the icing on the top every day. Haruki Murakami is right, the 30-50 min running alone are what is keeping me sane these days.
This coming Saturday is a landmark – the longest run I will have ever completed: 22 to 23 miles. Thanks to Haruki, I feel serene and even confident about the upcoming 4 hours.

Yoga tonight and tomorrow to get those musles nice and stretched out for the 23mile run.

It seems after all of this (that is by mid October), we are “tapering”. The only thing I understood from that whole phase is that I will no longer be allowed to run and will probably gain weight. Call me conceited, but I am not too keen on that. Running makes me a chiller person…what will happen for those 2 weeks before marathon day???? I will need all of my friend’s help to go out and cross train. I have roller blades and a gym membership that are dying to be used too!!

More to follow

So ready for the Marathon Day!

Hi everyone (or no one!!),

It's been a while! The France vs. US battle is closed now, but results will only be posted by end of week. However, there is still time to donate:

https://www.nyrrc.org/cgi-bin/start.cgi/mar-programs/nyrrf/team/2009/donations.htm

Please remember to indicate my entry number 366304 and last name (Villette)

I would say last week was a big milestone. Here are a couple reasons:

1. I was able to run twice on my own (even one AM run). People that know me are aware of my tendency not to be a morning person. Ben's cheeks still hurt 10 years later!

2. I tried and succeeded to run the Queensboro bridge. Without my friend Heather and the gossiping, it would have been far less fun, for sure. As we cruised by, I could picture myself on running day. With only the sound of runners' shoes hitting the pavement and slowly but surely in the distance the cheers from the crowds on 1st avenue....can't wait! Queensboro, you have NOTHING on me!

3. I successfully completed the 20mile run. On average, I ran between 9:40 and 10:20 min/mile. I would love to keep the marathon at 10:15, but let's wait and see!! A couple pictures for your viewing pleasure...

Main takeaway - I need to work on pre-run attitude. Every long run has gone PERFECTLY. I talk with my friends on the first half, then listen to my ipod and just make it work. I am rarely in pain after the runs. And yet, time and time again I stress out. Last Friday was the worst. I now have a little over a month to find a way to solve for that :-)

There are only a few $286 to go until I reach my fund raising goal - get to your wallets!! Put 1$ for every mile I will run, put $26 to help fight obesity, put $50 to give kids a running start. Every donation counts and helps.

https://www.nyrrc.org/cgi-bin/start.cgi/mar-programs/nyrrf/team/2009/donations.htm
Please remember to indicate my entry number 366304 and last name (Villette)

Cheers,

Emily.

France vs. US last 2 days!!!

Hi everyone (or no one!!)

There is still time to donate! Gifts are totally over-rated, I would much prefer your support to this amazing charity. Plus, there is still the competition to win a $15o Godiva Gift Basket. Who is more generous, american or french???

https://www.nyrrc.org/cgi-bin/start.cgi/mar-programs/nyrrf/team/2009/donations.htm
my entry number 366304 and last name (Villette)

Here is a picture I found online of me during the half marathon. I am such a happy runner!!!

47 days until the race. It's the final count down (music in the background)! I am mentally very ready, but I still bought a book about running and the work on mentally preparing for a race. (and no Chris, that still does not make me a runner. I just happen to be running a lot these days...)

I am starting to get nervous about this coming weekend's 20 mile run. My converse killed my pinkie toes and I have not gotten this weekend the rest I needed.

On the bright side, I am getting my new watch this week. I will no longer need to ask my running buddies for time/pace/whatever.

Plus, I think I found a new route to try: the three bridges: bk, then manhattan, up east side/1st ave and finally queensboro. Prob head back to queensboro and run through roosevelt island.

http://www.mapmyrun.com/route/us/ny/new%20york/387125289641197362

It's longer than I might do during the week, but it could be fun!!

Finally, regarding the charity (because it's really all about the kids). A couple cool facts:

• 82.6%, or .83 cents of every dollar goes to NYRR Youth Services.


• Did you know that it takes only $50 to cover the cost of one child's participation in NYRR Youth Services and Programs for an entire year? That means, that you, me, US are giving 50 kids the gift of running for one year if we meet the $2,500 goal

So, again, what are you waiting for? It's time to make a difference:

https://www.nyrrc.org/cgi-bin/start.cgi/mar-programs/nyrrf/team/2009/donations.htm
my entry number 366304 and last name (Villette)

Cheers,

There is still time to donate!

Hi everyone (or no one!!)

There is still time to donate, here is the link:
https://www.nyrrc.org/cgi-bin/start.cgi/mar-programs/nyrrf/team/2009/donations.htm

Please remember to indicate my entry number 366304 and last name (Villette)

Couple questions came from my closes friends:
- do I feel ok : oh my god, I have never felt better

- am I physically ok: I work out 5 to 6 days a week, but when I don't feel it, I don't do it. I push myself, but stay within reason given my current condition

- isn't boring to run such long distance:
1. it's not, I always have company. I usually talk for the first 4 to 6 miles. About ANYTING!! My week, why i am doing the marathon, my weekend plans. Whatever. This is for the me the hardest part, because at that point, I am hurting. After that, I usually plug in the ipod and just zone out. I think about stupid things: what am I going to wear tonight? what my new hottest dance move will be, what my next trip will be, what I am to do for brunch. How I am going to solve carres in international. A lot of everything and nothing. It's just running. One foot ahead of the next. You just do it, make it happen, because you said you would and you will.
2. i am officially addicted on endorphines. It is not an exageration to say that I am HIGH after a run. I am already concerned with the aftermath of the marathon. How will I replace this high???? Talk to me after a run and i will tell you I love you :)

- how do I feel about the marathon, the day of: I am excited. i can't wait, the days, the training is not going fast enough. I cannot wait to see my parents, my friends, New York on the side line cheering me on. As I write these words I have chills up my spine. I have been secretely wanting to do this since I saw it the first time. I know I can do it and I just can't wait to be there.

- can my friends away follow me on the day of: of course, we are high tech now (at least not me, but the rest of the world, yes!). Just use my number (366304) on nyrr.org website, I am sure there is a link somewhere for that

I think that's all for today...Oh. I did run 12 miles today. Felt great, went really well. I feel amazing, what else can I say?

Oh I forgot, always time to donate. It's a great charity, great cause and then you have the right to give me advise on running ;)

https://www.nyrrc.org/cgi-bin/start.cgi/mar-programs/nyrrf/team/2009/donations.htm

Please remember to indicate my entry number 366304 and last name (Villette)

Longest run...and it was a success!

Hi everyone (or no one!!),

Running is just great, seriously!

Back track to this full week…
Tuesday was my first day of swimming. I went to the gym on 23rd street and did some back freestyle laps. The idea is for me to work on my core so as to get more lower back support when I do the long runs. It felt GREAT, especially looking at the NYC sky from the roof windows. If only I were a morning person, I’d do that more often!! It was also my second charity event for Team for kids. We met at Pat o’Brien upper east. The usual beer pong experts were there to support this great cause. Overall, it was a success “carb loading” event. Thanks to all that participated. Maybe indeed next time, I will do a cooking event…Apparently I cook better than I can play Beirout!

Wednesday we had hill training. We had 6 sprint hills to complete. Although I am a great fan of sprinting, I always find these speed trainings very hard. I completed 5 out of the 6 hills. I was having trouble breathing after each of them. I could sprint the first part. I would stand straight, slightly leaning forward; I would “pump” those arms; I would even lift those knees. Regardless, half way I would have trouble breathing. Don’t get me wrong, I think I could have probably pushed a little harder. But this is not about finishing first, it’s about finishing ALIVE.

Thursday I continued with my “core” training and went to Yoga. I still can’t say I am good at Yoga, but regardless of the class level, I try all the postures…sometimes I fall, sometimes I don’t. I have a hard head!!

Friday I rested. I considered going back for a swim, but I was starting to feel extremely nervous about the Saturday long run. 16 miles, the longest I’d ever run. AND I was in charge of the route….Mapmyrun, here I come!! Oh, I also went to the US open on Friday night (yeah, poor me!!). I saw Venus and Nadal. Good games, but I couldn’t stay till the end, I needed my beauty sleep before the long run…

Saturday am came and I was feeling really nervous. It was hot, and we only started at 9AM. With 6 other ladies running about my pace we went down east side highway, across Brooklyn bridge, through Bk into Prospect Park. Unfortunately I had a misunderstanding with mapmyrun and we needed to complete 3 loops of the park vs. the indicated 1.5. That was a big disappointment when I learned that. I thought we were almost done and I was already tired and dehydrated. Thanks to the help of Laela, Zineb and Amira, we completed the full 16miles. I felt great at the end (per usual, thanks endorphines). It was not that bad after all, I could have gone longer…Pace must have been roughly 10:27. Given the heat, I’ll take that!!

Sunday and Monday I took off to rest my body. I went to the beach, walked, but mostly rested. I feel ready for more training, more charity events and more long runs. I just really needed a rest !

Cheers,

Chocolates and running

hi everyone (or no one!!)

Poor me today, I had to taste chocolates all day...I guess this is the price to pay to work in chocolate...but hey before you hate me, the sugar rush also brings a sugar crush! Given the drive to Reading and back I did my run on my own. It had been a really long time since I ran on my own. I was a little nervous and anxiously left in a hurry. No need to proscrastinate any further. I bolted out and started on the east river drive...

The battle is internal: "you can do it!", "oh come on a little faster" "why is everyone running faster than me?" "how far can this straight line go on for?" "when am I allowed to stop and still call it running?"...etc

This brought me back to my first run on the east side river. I think this must have been some 2 years ago. I had just decided to get back into shape. That run was hell, my feet were dragging, I had no breath, I hurt all over the place. I remember asking/telling my roommate "how many miles was that?" I think I must have run for no more than 1 mile!!! A couple months later, in better shape, I tried that route again. Those long straight lines were still painful, but I could at least run for more than 1 mile!

Tonight started painfully (hey, this place just doesn't like me!!). But then I got into my groove. I started looking at my fellow running buddies. Yes of course they don't know me, they won't tell me about their life like my TFK buddies, but like me they are out there hitting the pavement.

Some are there for their first/daily 1/2 miles. They look all cute with usually matching clothes and I presume endorphines don't even have time to hit them!

Then there are what I like to call the "braggers" - they are showing off all their latest running T-Shirts. I always wonder if they think this will impress runners "good job, you just finished the NYC half marathon" or just be a communication starter "wasn't running times square the time of your life??". What differentiates them for the last group is something in their total look that lacks complete and utter addiction to running: old shoes, not the latest and greatest shorts (the ones with the built in underwear) or even the watch, etc.

Final group - those that will always run past me, no matter how long I run :-) Those I want to smile at but who will never smile back because then they are doing their thing, talking to the pavement, that best friend of theirs.

So you wonder (or just moved on to another site already...) - which group do I fit into??
Well I am still wearing cotton t-shirts (big running no no I hear). I don't have a watch (my bday is coming up if you want to donate to the EMILY foundation!). I don't have an opinion on gu. Sometimes, I am tempted to think that beer could be considered carb loading...

Bottom line, as everything I have done in my life: I have committed to it, so I will do it. But I'll do it the "Emily-way": natural, uncaring of rules, encouraging, bitter sweet...I still don't think I am a runner, but I guess doing the NYC marathon says otherwise :-)

For those in NYC, Pat o Brian tomorrow, Sept 1st at 7PM. $10 entry and we have a keg and beer pong tables all to ourselves :-)
No movement on the battle between french and american...to be followed.

Cheers,

long run completed, weekend off!

Hi everyone (or no one!!),

Day 2 of the battle of the year: who is more generous between French and American? I must say, I am a little disappointed by the outcome so far. Guys!!! A $150 Godiva basket!! Don’t tell me all of you have stopped liking chocolate, that’s just NOT possible!!

In regards to running, since you all want to know where your money is going…
As would say Romain, now that he gave, he has a right over my running…hum hum. Ok then J
I completed my long weekend run last night. Since me and a couple friends close early on Fridays, we decided to “get it over with” on Friday. Some of those lucky few are going to be out in VEGAS enjoying life there…lucky lucky people!!
We completed 12 miles, starting at Madison Square park, down to Battery park city , back up to 34th street on the west side high way and back to Madison square park. I was still recovering from Thursday night, so our pace was very peaceful, roughly 11min/mile.

For the first time in several weeks, I can sleep in both mornings! Much needed. My body is telling me that if I don’t rest it, it will not go on. For the first time, my calves have been starting to bother me regularly.

Tuesday is my second charity event. I might let myself be convinced to do a last one. I’ve always wanted to be a bartender, so I might try that!

Well, since I have my full Saturday ahead of me, time to go make it happen! Let’s see
Cheers

GAME IS ON!!!

Hi everyone (or no one!!)

To spice things up a little bit, I thought of a little contest. All of you out there (or no one again…), you know that I am half American and half French. You also know that if asked if I feel more American or more French, I will always answer with a question “who do you prefer, your mom or your dad?”. Well, I think it’s time to pick sides!! Who is more generous : French People or American People?

To this date (August 27th), it is a tide. My French and American friends have given equally to this great Team for Kids cause. Out of fairness, I took out my parents :-)

So what I propose is as follows – battle in the Atlantic : France vs. US. No head banging allowed. No lobbies permitted. No baguette, no burger - just pure one on one, mano a mano (wait, wrong language!)

The individual in each country donating the most will receive a Godiva basket worth $150. you know you really want it, so make it HAPPEN! Highest donation so far has been $100…”bring it on” would say Kirsten Dunst in that popular american chick flick. "tu tires ou tu pointes?" would say Pagnol...

The game is ON!!

Deadline – final date to submit donations is September 15th 6PM (midnight in France).

Side line – check out this running blog – great insight into how we runners (yup, I said it, I AM A RUNNER) get into this. It’s all a drug if you ask me…those endorphines are AMAZING
http://feetmeetstreet.blogspot.com/2009/08/gateway-drug.html

Let the fun begin :-)
Cheers,

Pour mes petits amis francais.
Mega compet' entre les US et la France. Quel est le pays le plus genereux entre les deux. Pour le moment, egalite. L'individu qui donnera le plus gagnera un panier Godiva a valeur de $150 (ou son equivalent en Euro). Vous savez jusqu'au 15 septembre minuit pour donner.
Que le meilleur gagne!!

https://www.nyrrc.org/cgi-bin/start.cgi/mar-programs/nyrrf/team/2009/donations.htm

Please remember to indicate my entry number 366304 and last name (Villette)

Monday bloody Monday...

Hi everyone (or no one!!)

As indicated, Saturday was a 14 miles run. I failed to understand the concept of these long run training sessions: build miles, not speed. I usually also fail to deliver on the speed training where I usually end up running slower than usual. Long runs are meant to teach your body how to run long distances, but it's not supposed to be fast, maybe 1 min/mile slower than your marathon pace. I did run faster than my usual pace during 14miles, which is an amazing accomplishment. However, I feel drained and exhausted even after 2 days.

Which brings me to my marathon pace. I would really love to complete it in about 4hours, but this would require an effort I am not sure my close-to-being-29-body can take. I ain't that young anymore!! More to come on that topic, I am sure!!

I didn't do an easy run on sunday, I preferred to go out tubing for a couple hours! (And wine tasting!). I think my body needed a little chill pill, so that was nice.

This week, the focus is keeping the body happy with some speed, some mile build up, but especially a balanced diet and A LOT OF SLEEP!

Cheers,

14 Mile completed!

Hi everyone (or no one!!)

Just a quick update. It's 12noon and i already completed a 14mile run today. Full day ahead, right? Two major accomplishmens. Only some $793 to get to my fund raising goal and was able to run today under 10min/mile. I really need to get a watch to verify that in detail...

Great stuff. I am really happy, but I won't lie my body is not very happy- tired and hurting. More stretching and some yoga should do the trick...

More tomorrow
Cheers

TGIF

Hi everyone (or no one!!)

TGIF!
The heat is just unbearable right now. And the humidity combined!

Whoever wants to join – 14 mile tomorrow morning in Central Park. Run starts at7AM, so let’s meet around my place at 6:30AM. Target is to survive this run. Also, to move closer to a 10min/mile pace. Hopefully over the course of the next 2 months I can get closer to 9min/mile. Finishing the marathon in close to 4 hours would be ideal. Given the heat and the strain that has on my body right now, surviving is the only objective.

Now time to get home and rest before the run! More pics from tomorrow’s run to follow
Cheers

EN FRANCAIS DANS LE TEXTE

Hi everyone (or no one!!)

Today is for my cousin and friends that are more comfortable in French (maybe tomorrow, I will try out Spanish!!).

Donc chere cousine. Comme tu l’as suivi ces dernieres semaines, je continue mon entraintement pour le marathon. Dur quelque fois a marier avec la vie active d’une femme celibataire, mais il y a pire dans la vie!

Tout se passe bien mais la chaleur est dure a supporter. Hier entrainement sur les sprints. 2 min de sprint, 3 min de recup, repetes 6 fois. Avec presque 100% d’humidite et quelques 30degres...c’est difficle, tres difficile. Je n’ai pas pu faire le dernier sprint.

Voici en attache une photo prise pendant le semi marathon. Cette photo a ete prise au milieu de la course, probablement en sortant de central park. Donc je suis effectivement en train de courir. Mais comme vous le voyez je suis SUPER heureuse…ah les endorphines. Je devriendrais Presque acro!!

A part ca, tout roule. J’ai organize un petit evenement sur NYC pour lever des fonds. 1heure de biere non stop pour $10 d’entrée. Je persever lentement pour atteindre mon objectif de $2500. Chaque donation compte…

Bon je dois aller au Yoga (ca etire les jambes, c’est bon pour les coureurs…)
Cheers,

Sick today :-(

Hi everyone (or no one!!)

Although I felt great during the NYC half marathon, after and even 1 day later. By Monday end of day, it all caught up to me. Major headache and upset stomach.

I am home sick today L Trying to slowly let my body recover from a very long and “hot” run.

More to follow tomorrow for usre
Cheers,

NYC Half Marathon!!

Hi everyone (or no one!!)

I DID IT! I finished the NYC half marathon in one piece….and drum roll I also improved my time. I finished in 2h15min at a pace of 10:26min per mile. The last half marathon I had done in Brooklyn, I had finished it in 11:55min per mile…So GREAT improvement.

A couple pictures during the race (just to really drive home that I really do run!), at the finish line and with my team for kids team.

Team for Kids is not only about obesity, and giving youth a running start. It’s also a spirit of camaraderie and support. I was able to finish this race and improve my time thanks to the dedication of my coaches. Regardless how many times I came to practice grumpy, they supported me. Now every hill I run up, I can hear Sid telling me “pump up those arms! Let the hill come to you, don’t try to go to it”. And to quote Sid again, “all for one, one for all”. With every penny you are donating, we will be able to pass along to so many kids these values of support, general well-being and dedication to a cause. They really do need your support! In the pics you will see my fellow friend and buddy runner, Heather. Without her by my side at the beginning when I was so nervous and during when I just wanted to quit, I would not have finished this race.

Running through Times Square was the time of my life!! I felt like Tom Cruise in Vanilla Sky. Cheering was amazing from the Team for Kids and other passersby. A special thanks to Aude who came out to cheer and even ran a little bit with us J It really made a huge difference because I was really starting to feel the pain then.

So an amazing experience…and great excitement to the months to come as we start to build towards the final “hard” additional miles.

If you haven’t already donated, there is still time (but not that much, donations end on Oct 10th).
https://www.nyrrc.org/cgi-bin/start.cgi/mar-programs/nyrrf/team/2009/donations.htm

Please remember to indicate my entry number 366304 and last name (Villette)

Talk to you all soon
Cheers,

TGIF!!!

It’s been a while …hi everyone (or no one!)
We had a team building event on Wednesday. Lucky me, cheering as usual, I got hit by a stray ball….and with my luck right in the knee. Practice on Wednesday was a little painful. I think both due to the knee ‘injury” and the heat.

Thursday I successfully went to Yoga. It felt great. I should do that more often.

We are now only a couple days away from the NYC half Marathon, or the half of my Marathon adventure…

If you haven’t donated yet, there is still time
https://www.nyrrc.org/cgi-bin/start.cgi/mar-programs/nyrrf/team/2009/donations.htm

Please remember to indicate my entry number 366304 and last name (Villette)


Every $$ will help give kids a running start! Don’t you have $26 to help fight obesity???

More to come later,
Cheers

Falmouth Race at the Cape

Hey everyone (or no one!!),

Happy Monday to all! It’s the final countdown (do you guys hear the music in the background?!)… Just a couple more days until the half marathon (Sunday August 16th)
The course should be a lot of fun: full loop of the park, race down Times Square and then down on the west side to Battery Park.
I just cannot wait to run through Times Square!!

This weekend I was in the Cape for a race: Falmouth Race. Running on the street you slowly come out to an opening and there the sea opens itself to you. Along with fellow runners the sweet ocean breeze pushes you forward. As the miles, heat and sweat pearl down your face Cape Coders cheer on your last efforts. Kids are out extending their hand; parents are sprinkling runners; I heard of some others giving out Booze (?!), on hill at a time, one beach town at a time the 7.1miles unravel.
I won’t lie the heat was really hard on me. Maybe also the day on the boat on Saturday drinking beers watching waves and the sun did not help…
I was amazed at the kindness and cool demeanor of the people on the Cape. They were present throughout the ENTIRE course.

I don’t yet consider myself a runner. I just happened to be training for the marathon….I would love to interview or sit and talk with other runners who feel the need to disguise for a run: What is the rationale of being disguised as a Banana, butterfly, red sox, angel? I just don’t get it. I also don’t get those with make-up etc. Seriously, after 7 miles, you’re NOT going to look great with the make-up all smeared…whatever.!!

Did anyone ever try to race across the world in search of the best running sites with best cheering or the most interesting communities. Would Saharans cheer those crazy runners there? Boston people are REALLY proud of Boston. I know that might sound like a fact, but it was amazing how many wore Red Sox/I love Boston/etc T-shirt before the race, during (there was one colored red and blue!!)

I finished within my time, 10min/mile, on target as usual. I tested Gatorade and water drinking on the way. I also tested carrying my camera. And unfortunately also realized that not having my “gym mix” on shuffle really throws me off (we are such creatures of habits!). I hope to master the taking pics for the half so I can “shoot away” during the real thing on November 1st. As a smart monkey told me once, “consider every run as the real thing. Test everything ahead of time.” Sooo true

Enough rambling. Enjoy my first running pic :-)
More to come soon!

why the marathon with TFK

Hey everyone (or no one!!),

I hope everyone loves my new look. This blog thing is not easy on my technologically-challenged brain! The new logo is courtesy of Danika – the most amazing graphic designer I know, plus an amazing person inside and out….(also my running buddy and inspiration) …that’s a lot for one person, right?!

A couple updates…and the reasons why I am running this marathon with Team for Kids

Three years ago (or was it already 4??) a really good friend of mine ran the marathon with Team for Kids (Danika). Two years ago, I went to cheer a friend running the marathon. Finally last year I cheered another friend running the marathon with team for kids. I saw through these friends the excitement of running, but not just for you, for a greater cause.

When I was in business school my final thesis was on “communication strategies in consumer packaged companies given the growing obesity problem in kids in France” (ouf!).

I slowly started running with Danika last summer in Fire Island. The feeling was great. Those endorphins really make you feel GREAT! The joke last weekend was that at the end of the 14mile run, I would have asked anyone to marry me…I might want to check in on that habit…

So I started thinking – why not do the marathon? Some people start running and are happy on the tread mill. I thought this would be an amazing accomplishment. But I didn’t want it to be all about me. There is enough selfishness in NYC that I don’t need to add to it…

We all know how big a problem obesity is. It’s all over the place on TV: biggest looser, move your ass, on the streets, on the news, etc. 12 is the new norm in the US now!! 12, that’s HUGE!

We all know the learning of eating and exercising starts young. It all starts with the kids. We all think we know how to eat and get moving. However, it still baffles me some times to hear someone say that a Pizza is a nutritional option, it’s NOT.

Raising money for Team for Kids, I am giving kids a running start. All funds raised pay for running-based fitness, goal-setting, and nutrition programs in over 150 schools in New York City, nationally, and internationally. These programs currently serve more than 75,000 children and provide them with opportunities to learn about good health & fitness habits and, as a result, allow them to lower their risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and other serious diseases.

So help me give youth a running start – see previous blogs for donation directions

More to come tomorrow!

Tuesday didn't happen

Hey everyone (or no one???)

I hope this blog (or blug as some like to call it…) is going to be for me the opportunity to share with you my little personal journey training for the marathon, an update on my fund raising and just amazing random thoughts!!! As you know, the only thing I am doing and talking about these days is the marathon. Here is a fun T-Shirt that the New York road runners created…I guess it’s kind of true…For $22 you can remind how boring I am J

Yesterday was cross training. I usually go to Yoga. Someone told me running squashes your muscles and yoga extends it. So it's good to compensate one with the other…

But work caught up with me so that didn’t happen…

What else? A couple random things

- Tonight is sprint training – if anyone wants to join, it’s always a good time. Meet with Team for Kids @ 6:15 on the west entrance on 81th street.

- I’ve met my ½ commitment for the marathon. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all my friends and family for believing in the cause, Team for Kids and myself. This is going to be an amazing journey J

- The next big step for me is the NYC half marathon, it’s on Sunday August 16th. If you want to test your cheering skills or are still skeptical on my running skills , come and join. I just can’t wait to run through Times Square!! I would love to be able to carry my camera during the run, but it’s more a space issue at this point…Solutions anyone?

- Very psyched about this weekend – 7 mile run at Cape Cod (Thanks for having me Lauren!)

More to come tomorrow !

Donation directions

Thanks to all of those that have already donated...

For those that have not, remember it's tax deductible and it's giving youth a running start. Below details on process.


Giving is easy— You can give online by visiting
https://www.nyrrc.org/cgi-bin/start.cgi/mar-programs/nyrrf/team/2009/donations.htm.
Please remember to indicate my entry number 366304 and last name

My First post...I am almost crying...except that this is way harder than I thought. Yet again I had no idea.

Some wise monkey said, blogging is now hard, but like running it will get easier....wise monkey!!

On the left you will find the Parc de Marly le Roi. This is where I completed my 11mile run on July 25th.

It's actually a really cool parc. I used to do cross country running there when I was in Junior high school.

This is where Mitterand and Louis XIV used to come hunting. There used to be a castle in the center, but it was destroyed during the french revolution. Good old Louis would bring his mistresses here...oh the french!!

What this parc is most famous for is its "abreuvoir": horses can just walk in to the abreuvoir to drink. On both sides you have horses "les chevaux de Marly". The originals are now in Musee d'Orsay. Other copies are also at the bottom of the champs elysees in Paris. When France lost Alsace and Lorraine after WWI, the horses were draped in black in sign of mourning...

So it's a cool parc to be running in and thinking about what stories already took place there.

I ended up running for something like 2 hours. My sister ran a bit (like 20min). After 1 hour she candidly asked "are you almost done?" My response: "no honey, I still have one more hour to go!!". I guess my pace was around 10min/mile, on target. Only issue was the pinky blister problem. I guess I will need to get rid of those ones :-(

More blog updates tomorrow!