Pages

This is how it works-
I love to run but there are times when I would rather not. This is when the voices start. Chants, name calling, guilt and reverse psychology is how they get me up and out the door. I don't really mind the voices and have actually started looking forward to their daily calls. Together we have formed a running club that supports, encourages and competes with each other. I love these peeps. They are much more experienced, talented and tougher than I am. Pushing me out the door, through the hard miles and up the monster hills when I am feeling lazy or want to give up. Some people have "real" training partners, coaches and support crews. My team is ALWAYS with me and helps me to keep my eye on the prize and not veer off the track. Sounds crazy- Yeah, probably is.........

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Miles 211 - 216 With Friends

This is what I asked-

Honor those touched by cancer by taking a few steps each day. Do this by running/walking one mile for each person in your life that has or is fighting this monster. One mile at a time- consecutively or on separate days- it doesn't matter. Spread the word and remind others that the fight rages on, get them involved and together WE CAN WIN.

This is what YOU did-

191 of you responded and got involved. Not HUGE numbers but BIGGER than I had imagined. Thank you for indulging me in this small attempt to honor and spread awareness to the FIGHT. The month long One Mile of Honor event ends at midnight. (still time to get that last mile in) It has been MY honor to run for so many people. I can't say enough good things about those that participated, so I'll just go with my standard.... WOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!xAwesomePeople


Today, for miles 211 - 216, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

211th mile Herb Root
212th mile Juanita McQuerry
213th mile Dora Arnold
214th mile Jake Cooper
215th mile Denny Cooper
216th mile Wille Thompson

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.

In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.





.

Monday, August 30, 2010

Miles 205 - 210 With Friends

Nothing extraordinary about today's run. 6 miles on the trails during my lunch break. It looked promising because of a little off and on rain all morning but, as is my luck, the sun decided to shine while I ran, making it hot and humid. Of course the rain returned after lunch. I'm almost certain that it was a reminder from up above for me to FOCUS.

The heat and humidity made it uncomfortable but not unbearable - just enough to make it a little tougher and forced me to think about what it is WE are trying to do. All my yapping about "the streak" lately has taken away from the real mission here. The streak is so inconsequential when compared to the FIGHT and honoring those touched by cancer that it's not worthy of a mention. It is just silly little game that I can choose to extend or end at any time. Cancer, on the other hand, is not a game that gives a choice.

So, today was just a normal old run but also an eye opener that has humbled my overinflated ego. There are so many things more important than me and the dumb stunts I pull. With only one day left, I am back on track - with apologies for ever veering off. Once in a while, I just have to say it out loud....... I HATE CANCER!!!


Today, for miles 205 - 210, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

205th mile Larry Rouchka
206th mile Dennis Lusso
207th mile Majorie Lusso-Dutton
208th mile Buster Lusso
209th mile Billy Snider
210th mile Allen Perkins

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.

In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.





.

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Miles 199 - 204 With Friends

Ahhh... Sunday. The perfect day for a long run. I had big plans for today.....had. After yesterday's water slide marathon it was obvious that sleeping in was going to be necessary. No long run today. A short 6 miles kept the streak alive, put me over 200 for the month and added a few more friends to the CLUB.

Something weird did happen on my run today. I realized that there was a time when 6 miles WAS my long run. Before that, it was a distance that I MIGHT one day run. Even further back, it was a distance that there was NO WAY I could run. Now WE call it short?? I guess that just proves my theory that ANYBODY can become a runner if they just stick to it.

Another revelation as I ran.... I am a SLOW learner. When I first started running, it was an absolute that I would never stop until the distance was covered. No matter what little aches and pains or how tired and thirsty, there would be NO stopping. This was mainly because I believed that if I did- it would be like a permission slip to do it every time and stopping might become the norm. Kind of a dumb way to think but I operated like this for the first couple of years. Now I know that it is okay to stop, walk, regroup or just take in a nice view. uhhhh..... I know this- most of the time. Today I ran for 6 miles with something poking the side of my foot every so often. I thought that maybe my shoe had a thin spot on the tread and I was just catching a rock once in a while. "I'll look at it later- gotta get this run in." What an idiot. Upon inspection when I got home- it was a thorn. A long thorn shoved through my shoe an into my foot. No wonder it hurt the EXACT same spot every-time. I am a GENIUS.

Maybe I don't really understand how facebook events track numbers. I know it was at 191 yesterday but today..... 190. I am sure there must be a technical explanation for this. Nobody would change their mind about the One Mile of Honor, would they? Nah.... technical glitch. WOOOOOO!!!!! x190

Today, for miles 199 - 204, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

199th mile Sharon Kirk
200th mile Peggy McDowell
201st mile Joyce Haynes
202nd mile Evelyn Akers
203rd mile Jerry Atkeison
204th mile Dorothy Robertson

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.

In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.





.

Miles 195 - 198 With Friends

Been a long day but in a good way. Managed to sneak in a 4 mile run at 6 AM to keep the streak alive. 41 and counting.... Then it was nothing but water slides and junk food at White Water in Branson. We made the mistake of telling our 7 year old that HE could decide when we left. Yep. Dumb. That's how we roll.....let the kids be in charge. Genius stuff. I will never write a book about parenting skills. Anyway we stayed for the entire 12 hours that the park was open and hit every slide MANY times. Lot of fun but I'm not sure if I can stretch another day out of the streak after that. I am beat.....

Okay, the One Mile of Honor...... jumped up HUGE today. 191 of the AWESOME peeps are now participating. WOOOOOO!!!!! x191

Today, for miles 195 - 198, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

195th mile Alberta Parker
196th mile James Vanwey
197th mile Carolyn Steiner-Lusso
198th mile Jeanne Martin

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.

In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.





.

Friday, August 27, 2010

Miles 185 - 194 With Friends

Day 40 of "The Streak" is in the books. 297 miles since my last rest day. I hope to extend to 41 but with plans to hit the water park early tomorrow morning, it might get tough. Today was a great 10 miler with 6 miles of gravel and 4 pavement. The pace was very steady, staying right around 7:20/mile and THAT was an accomplishment for me. Usually I am 15 seconds either way of my average pace, so staying within just a few seconds for the entire run is a good thing. The 7:20 pace was pretty sweet too, considering "The Streak". Luckily, there have been zero injuries during this period. The only minor issue occurred during this morning's run. The temps were in the low 80's, much cooler than it has been, so I decided to bail on the band-aids. Dumb. My white shirt was covered in blood by the end. Bloody nipples. Good stuff......

Enough of the blah, blah, blah about me and my DUMB exploits, time to move on to the important stuff.

I have had the good fortune through the awesomeness of facebook, to watch as a friend has undergone a transformation over the last year. Without the aid of magic pills or fad diets she has lost over 100lbs and become an example to everybody that has followed her. How could she do this without magic? I know this is going to sound crazy...... she achieved this through HARD WORK and DEDICATION. Yep. The two things that are so hard to find.... It has been a huge motivation for me just to log on and read her daily updates and I KNOW there are a lot of people that feel the same. Now she has found a way to reach many more. Weight, Well-Being, and the Wonders of Womanhood on facebook is her new group page. So ladies, if you want to learn from one of the best....here is your chance. Sorry fella's- it's top secret stuff- you're stuck with me. Congrats and good luck, Holly. Go get 'em!!

The One Mile of Honor is almost there. 9,810 away...... WOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! x190


Today, for miles 185 - 194, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

185th mile Dan Phillips
186th mile James Atchley
187th mile Wes Morris
188th mile Rita Donaldson
189th mile Christopher Petro
190th mile Ronnie Rice
191st mile Bailey Bennet
192nd mile Donna Adams
193rd mile Patricia Alums
194th mile Karen Bradshaw

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.

In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.





.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Miles 179 - 184 With Friends

~If what you did yesterday still seems big, then you haven't done anything today~ This quote is attributed to Lou Holtz, a MASTER motivator. A friend of mine posted this on facebook a while back and I can't get it out of my head. Maybe it is because I have it written on the dry-erase boards in my office and weight room. Maybe it's because the VOICES are constantly whispering it. Maybe it's because I feel like it's time to push myself a little harder.......

It could be any or all of those things but the real reason is self-evident. Because it is TRUE. Everything that seemed like BIG accomplishments now seem small and old news. The milestones from 5k, 10k, 1/2, 25k, Full, 50k, 50 miler and the 54 miles at the Relay for Life were all HUGE events at the time. I basked in the feelings of great accomplishment for a week or two.....now the VOICES are starting in. "Hey sissy-boy....What's next?? We're getting bored." Interesting....I think they need a challenge and I just happen to have one in mind. Maybe it's time to try...... oh, never-mind. I'll tell you about it later. Right now we have more important things happening.....like the One Mile of Honor.

WE are getting closer to 10,000 participants. 4 days left and it is up to 189 of the AWESOME ones. WOOOOO!!! x189 This means that we just need to recruit 2452.75 people everyday. EASY. Could happen. Small chance. Very slim. But still possible...... I continue to remain positive, optimistic and hopeful... and that is really the underlying message here. An attitude of Optimism and Hope....WE can make a difference -no matter how small the odds- WE CAN.


Today, for miles 179 - 184, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

179th mile John Fant
180th mile Theresa Price
181st mile Liz Curtner
182nd mile Evelyn Young
183rd mile Margaret McArthur
184th mile John Wells

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.





.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Miles 173 - 178 With Friends

It started with a 4.5 mile run on July 19th. Only one day off after my first triathlon (sprint) and things didn't feel too great. Dead legs, tired.... you know the drill. I would have never guessed that would be the beginning. The beginning?? Oh, the beginning of what WE are calling "The Streak". After today's 6 mile trail run on my lunch hour, it has been 38 days since my last "rest" day. There have been a few 3 mile runs thrown in on the days when I have felt drained but most have been longer. The total distance over this period has been 281 miles and a daily "average" of 7.4 miles.

Some days have been slow and others fast, some on trails and others on pavement or gravel. Recovery after the faster or longer runs has not been an issue, in fact I feel stronger now then I ever have. Weird....It has become an experiment and a test for myself. An experiment because I want to know how long I can go before things break down and injury sets in. A test because I want to see if I have the brain/will power to stop before breakdown and injury sets in. Could be bad.......

If you are on dailymile you can check out "The Streak" in my training profile. If you are not on dailymile, well, you SHOULD be. It is an awesome online log for all types of workouts and has an interface much like facebook. Also, I am trying my hand at the whole Twitter thing....I am lost....but if you use Twitter- follow me @runlikeamug please.


Looks like the One Mile of Honor facebook event is holding steady at 187 of the AWESOME people. Still looking to hit 10,000.....5 days left....uhhh, oh yeah, it CAN still happen. (Nike can also throw me some free Pegasus....about the same chances)

Today, for miles 173 - 178, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

173rd mile Mary Roberts
174th mile Charlie Schlicht
175th mile Denny Pepmiller
176th mile Audrey Pepmiller
177th mile June Freshour
178th mile Barbara Baker

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.





.

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Miles 167 - 172 With Friends

After 36 consecutive days of running without a rest day, today was THE day. REST. That invaluable and necessary evil that all runners must deal with. Ahhhh..... just lazing around, eating junk and doing nothing. Living the dream. Blah, blah, blah..... That lasted until about 7pm tonight. I started jonesin'...BAD. Had to get my fix. Couldn't fight the VOICES anymore. So it was a sweet six miler at a 7:15 pace. Everybody calmed down, the chaos in my head mellowed into peaceful harmony. That's how we rolled on the 37th day.....

The One Mile of Honor......Looks like it is sitting at 187 AWESOME peeps tonight. 7 more days to reach 10,000. I remain optimistic. WOOOOOO!!!!!! x187

Today, for miles 167 - 172, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

167th mile Delores James
168th mile Sonny James
169th mile Ward Workman
170th mile Kathy Workman
171st mile Billie Huddleston
172nd mile Glen Morgan

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.



.

Monday, August 23, 2010

Miles 163 - 166 With Friends

One Mile of Honor.... 186 and growing. WOOOOO!!!! x186

Today, for miles 163 - 166, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

163rd mile Dora Chiumanatta
164th mile Jack Richars
165th mile Loraine Harris
166th mile Dawn Hodges

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.


.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Miles 146 - 162 With Friends

Long runs can be hard. Sometimes they zap ALL the energy before you even get started. This morning, as I set out for a 17 miler, I just wasn't "feeling" it. When I go solo on these runs the thought ALWAYS comes through my head to just cut it short and make it up another time and, as much as I hate to admit it, sometimes I do. Not this morning.....I had 17 new friends running with the CLUB. Even though I do not know any of these people personally, THEY pulled me along and WE ran at a pace that left me feeling like I could go forever.....unfortunately, I had other things to do today or I just might have.

One Mile of Honor.... 184 and holding. WOOOOO!!!! x184

Today, for miles 146 - 162, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

146th mile Steve Heater
147th mile Bob Adair
148th mile Carl Kilgore
149th mile Elizabeth Bean
150th mile Ruth Gold
151st mile Gladys Lewis
152nd mile Mary Boniedot
153rd mile Edith Boniedot
154th mile Harold Hopkins
155th mile Fred Reynolds
156th mile Ryan Coats
157th mile Peggy Nelson
158th mile Pam Smith
159th mile Christian Fairs
160th mile Butch Turner
161st mile Donald Huiatt
162nd mile Marion Dishman

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.

.

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Miles 142 - 145 With Friends

There are not enough hours in the day sometimes. After a very long week away from home, there was not ANY time for me to slip away from my boys for a run today. THAT was okay - I missed them too. So, I had given up on the idea.....good thing for me that I hear VOICES. Some last minute running on the dreadmill let me squeeze in an easy 4 miles. Nothing fancy or fast, just 30 minutes of 'me time' - well, almost. I did get to enjoy listening to my 7 year old tell me all about the adventures of Jimmy Neutron....very interesting and a good way to keep from going completely insane on the 'mill.

The One Mile of Honor is hanging in at 184 participants and that is good....means nobody changed their mind today. WOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! x184RockStars



Today, for miles 142 - 145, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

142nd mile Dale Davis
143rd mile Ruth Reardon
144th mile Georgia Lyons
145th mile Betty Adair

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.



.

Friday, August 20, 2010

Miles 134 - 141 With Friends

Sometimes I really wonder if ANYBODY pays attention to this....or anything that I babble on about. Maybe they do and maybe they don't but the one thing that I DO know is that there are now 184 peeps now participating in the One Mile of Honor event. I guess what I am trying to say in my dumb little way is this..... WOOOOOO!!!!! x184

For me, it was 8 miles on the trails today. I managed to shake the VOICES (somewhat) for a little while and enjoyed the run with a friend. I haven't seen this dude in 20 years but through the genius of social networking...AKA facebook... we were able to catch up with each other and squeeze in a few miles. Weird how some people like to run from the past yet here we were running IN the past. Great time.


Today, for miles 134 - 141, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

134th mile Josephine Bowlen
135th mile Rendell Crabtree
136th mile Ron Meyer
137th mile Chisako Fetterly
138th mile Somoa Higa
139th mile William Hubble
140th mile Laverne Lundy
141st mile Walter Hubble

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.



.

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Mile 126 - 133 With Friends

Sometimes it helps to look around. Look around and see that things aren't THAT bad. I watched a family go through the extraordinary hardship of removing a loved one from life support last night. The process began in the afternoon and lasted until the early hours of the morning. As I sat camped out in the ICU waiting room and watched this family going through such a heart-wrenching ordeal it dawned on me that I am lucky. Sometimes it takes a "reality check" to wake me up and that is EXACTLY what I experienced.

This family showed great courage under horrible circumstances and they were, for the most part, very strong through their process and I wondered where they got the strength. It was only AFTER they left that I realized their strength came, partly, through numbers. I don't know how many people were involved but there were several and they all banded together in mutual support. Numbers. There is STRENGTH in numbers. I am impressed by their courage and the way they came together in this crisis. Strength in numbers..... I believe this is true even more today than yesterday.

The numbers......183 "attending" the One Mile of Honor event as of tonight. 183 of us that have banded together to HONOR those we love. How can this not be a good thing? Personally, I take great pride in being a small part of the FIGHT and I know there are at least 182 others that feel the same. As I ran a peaceful 8 miles on the trails tonight, I reflected on just how important this is. Thank you all.


Today, for miles 126 - 133, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

126th mile Sally A. Lacombe
127th mile Ulinor Pitt Jr
128th mile Geri Cormier
129th mile Kelly Jackson Mixon
130th mile Palmyre C. Pitt
131st mile Francis Wilson
132nd mile Karina Quebedeaux
133rd mile Angela Arnaud

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.



.

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Miles 116 - 125 With Friends

Trails....trails.....trails..... gotta love those trails. Today I managed to squeeze in 10 miles of therapy on some pretty awesome trails just north of Springfield, MO. Great way to clear my mind and get things together. Nothing like avoiding loose rocks and surface roots, dodging spiderwebs, jumping over dead logs and “sneaking” up on a few deer. Add to that a couple of short, steep climbs and several switch-backs.....just like Christmas.

The numbers are UP!!! 181 people “now attending” the One Mile of Honor event. Think they heard my non-stop begging? I hope so....there will be more.

Today, for miles 116 - 125, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

116th mile Patsy Pierce
117th mile Kelly Pruett-Lackey
118th mile Herb Root
119th mile Iva Waltermate
120th mile Carl Gregory
121st mile Bill Watkins
122nd mile Eulis Vest
123rd mile Eugene Vest
124th mile Dewey Davis
125th mile Dale Davis

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.



.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Miles 106 - 115 With Friends

The world is going end tomorrow. Oh, no!! What are we going to do? Uhhh..... this part of 'WE' is going to throw on some Nike Pegasus and hit the roads....no, that won't do much good. The trails, that is where I would head. I would run the trails and think about anything and everything, EXCEPT the impending doom that is coming tomorrow. Yep. Forget about the “REAL” problem for a while and focus on nothing. Just random, fleeting thoughts of NOTHING. Take in the scenery, dodge a few spiderwebs and clear my mind of ANY and ALL meaningful thoughts. After running, in a moment of unprovoked clarity, the solution would seem as simple as 2 + 2. The world would be saved and I could continue on in my crazy existence as a wannabe trail runner. You are all welcome.

So, that may be just a little extreme but it does have some truthfulness in it. There is SOMETHING unexplainable about running that, for me, seems to draw the focus of my thoughts away from the stress of “real” problems and fills my head with nothing. (yep- nothing in there) I don't even try to understand how this happens – it just does. Problems slip into the background for just a little while – they don't go away but, and here is the weird part, things become MUCH clearer afterward. Usually, not always, but usually a solution or new outlook on the situation smacks me in the face in the first few minutes after completing a run. Weird?? No. Freakin' weird?? YEP. I don't get it but I'll take it. I'm no philosopher but I do believe this..... Problems are solved when the mind becomes a blank slate. Go for a run and you will see.

One Mile of Honor....... 177 “attending” as of tonight. That is one down from yesterday.... guess somebody changed their mind..... weird. It is okay- we are all allowed to change our minds- but it IS weird. Really though, who am I to talk about weird. Let's just do this..... 177?? That is awesome and set me up for a SWEEET 10 miler today. Thanks- WOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! x177

Today, for miles 106 - 115, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

106th mile Melvin Gerdes
107th mile Steve Clark
108th mile Wilma Richison
109th mile Reva Richison
110th mile Barbara Parrish
111th mile Laura Lynn
112th mile Christine Drummond
113th mile Josephine Bowlen
114th mile Brenda Andreesen
115th mile Your Request – L.S.

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.



.

Monday, August 16, 2010

Miles 103 - 105 With Friends

Some dates are easy to remember. Holidays, birthdays and anniversaries are the most obvious. For me, there is a date that I will never forget. January 16, 2006 – the day that I unknowingly turned the page and began a new chapter in my life. The idea was simple and easy. Just find some old shoes and lace 'em up, go for a run and lose some weight. Not because I thought I "really" needed to lose any weight but rather because I had an opportunity to win some money. Looking back, I realize now that I DID need to lose some lbs – at 5'11 and 227 lbs – I did NOT have “just a little extra” - I had a LOT extra. (and the pictures to prove it.) I had NO IDEA where this simple challenge would lead. Fortunately I discovered something more important and much more valuable than money- a better lifestyle. (I call it the Fountain of Youth)

So, on that January day, I logged my first mile. A terrible and painful attempt at running that left me humbled, breathing much too hard, sweating like a pig (in January) and completely drained. One mile?? Thankfully, it wasn't too long before things became easier and running became something to look forward to rather than a burden that I felt obligated to do.

Today, August 16, 2010 – I logged my mile number 7,100 since that cold January day in 2006. I have learned so much about myself in this relatively short period of time and have found that ANYTHING is possible if you really want it. As I embark on the next chapter in this journey, there are many goals left to accomplish and much work to be done. My goals have changed from the simple notion of weight loss to finding ways to push myself farther and harder than I ever dreamed. The support and motivation from my friends and family are huge factors in my success. Keep pushing me because I promise you this......there are some BIG things on the horizon and I will definitely need it.

Enough about that..... on to the important stuff. 178 peeps in the One Mile of Honor event......Woooo x2. After another loooong day in my life it was nice to see that number 178.... up by 2 from yesterday- and that tells me that there are others thinking about the FIGHT and HONORING our loved ones. Today, I needed that reassurance. Thank you for giving me the motivation to put in a few miles tonight.

Today, for miles 103 - 105, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

103rd mile Tom Stowell
104th mile Johnny Earl Coonts
105th mile Bailey Bennet

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.


.

Sunday, August 15, 2010

Miles 100 - 102 With Friends

Squeezing in the miles......sometimes that is the ONLY way to get it done. Today was a VERY tough day for me all around. But with the One Mile of Honor event holding at 176 strong it was easy to find some motivation to lace 'em up and get out on the road for a few miles. Amazing how just a few miles can change the perspective on certain situations. Running is therapy............

Today, for miles 100 - 102, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

100th mile Paul Titus
101st mile Kim Ackerman
102nd mile Cindy Dow-Neild


Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.

Saturday, August 14, 2010

Miles 97 - 99 With Family

176.......Woooo x2. WE love those 176 awesome people that have taken the time to participate in the One Mile of Honor. Sometimes the smallest of things can make a huge difference.

Ever have one of those days?? I would bet that you have - if you or somebody you love has battled the MONSTER. It has been one of those looooooong days for me. If you have ever done the hospital thing, waiting for answers that nobody has or just trying to get somebody to come and shut off an alarm on an IV...... you know the emotional drain that can have. I had reached the conclusion that running was not going to happen for me today.......but 176??? If that many can commit, then I can FIND 20 minutes to run a few miles. Besides, tomorrow may be even longer, who knows? So thanks for participating and thanks for the motivation.

Today, uhhhh....I mean, tonight, I ran for 3 people that mean the world to me. Partly because I do not have access to my list of names but mostly because they are always with me when I run. They are the people that have taught me everything I know about drive, motivation, attitude and happiness.

97th mile Bill Murphy
98th mile Debbie Martin
99th mile Rita Murphy

They have always been a part of the VOICES running club and it is with great pride that I run in their HONOR. Tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more names. Fight on, friends.

In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.

Friday, August 13, 2010

96 Reasons

175 people now “attending” the One Mile of Honor event...... Woooo x2. Today, Friday the 13th, for miles 91 - 96, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people. Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. Some may wonder WHY it is so important to US to do this everyday. As I ran, this question was on my mind and I had a hard time coming up with just one answer, so today I offer something a little different.

WHY is this so important? So far I have come up with 96 reasons.......

Joe Kanzler
Patsy Pierce
Averille Pierce
Loy Ellis
Cloyd “Slim” Parsons
Louise Goodnight
Hannah Stutts
Linda Stutts
Colleen Wuderick
Peggy Cline
Allen Bilbro
Ollie Grisham
Bill Grisham
Steve Brantingham
David Brantingham
Barbara Brantingham
Doyle Dennis
Tim Ewing
Barbara Baker
Ted Brantingham
Stephanie Phillips
Charlotte Sellars
Bob Young
Doug Rakes
David Sellars
Kelli Rose
Diane Tryon
Lonnie Combs
Harold Quellhorst
Mr. Ralph
Joe Breshears
Gary Freeman
Mary Williams
Brenda Herd
Kathleen Moore
JoAnn Stamper
Bill Hartley
Karen Trimble
Pam McCroskey
Debbie Rose
Barb Williams
Barbara Crespino
Toni Niedermayer
Art Niedermayer
Mary Roberts
Charlie Schlicht
Dick Wiggins
Lynda Burke
Connie Cornielson
Kathi Smith
Grandma Turner
Steve Clark
Edwin Murphy
Dee Combs
Myron Beltz
Brenda Bass
Sam Frazier
Don Dockter
Pat Rhodes
Harold Rhodes
Joyce Motti
Jackie Bailey
Diane Middlesawart
Robert Powell
Lisa Young
Joyce Hebblethwaite
Richard Peery
Imogen Wiggins
Nick Jones
Ruth Hager
Rhonda Welch
Marlin Unruh
Anzie Tate
Cathy Phelps Williams
Fern Clark
Brenda Piatt
Claudia Buzzard
Sharon Peak
Charles Wells
Craig Binford
Tambra Pickford
Larry Paull
Darwin Hillhouse
Gene Hillhouse
Jamie Kovack
David Fugate
Jamey Sharp
Melvin Driskoll
Sandy May
Richie Easton
Jason Jackson
Fern Breedlove
Doug Harper
Jason Sorenson
Dwight Young
Kelli Isbelle

96.......... and that, unfortunately, is a VERY small number. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.

In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.



.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Miles 81 - 90 With Friends

12 days in..... 173 “attending” the One Mile of Honor event. 173.....Woooo x2. I was fortunate enough to be able to HONOR 10 individuals today. Nothing mind-blowing or extraordinary, just 10 miles on the dreadmill. If you have been on a dreadmill then you know that time is multiplied...... it drags on and on and on...... which is perfect for what I hope to accomplish each day. It gives my mind plenty of time to focus on the folks that WE honor. There are many that I have never met but still feel as though I do know them, or at least a connection of some sort, maybe on a spiritual level.... but I won't get into that.

Let us continue walking, running and spreading the word to others as we honor our loved ones and FIGHT this horrible monster. I refuse to quit or give up and challenge everyone else to make the same commitment. Everybody has some special gift that they can use to help, WE just have to find it.


Today, for miles 81 - 90, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

81st mile Tambra Pickford
82nd mile Larry Paull
83rd mile Darwin Hillhouse
84th mile Gene Hillhouse
85th mile Jamie Kovack
86th mile David Fugate
87th mile Jamey Sharp
88th mile Melvin Driskoll
89th mile Sandy May
90th mile Richie Easton

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Miles 75 - 80 With Friends

171 people “attending” the One Mile of Honor event..... Wooooo x2. 11 days in and 80 miles covered. With each day of this month, I have been able to log some miles and honor a few. It has given me time to think and reflect on the importance of becoming involved in some capacity in this FIGHT. New ideas (some/most are not very good) and a personal re-dedication to the fight come to me everyday. I hope that there are others out there experiencing the same thing. Anyway on to the miles...... It was another HOT one but I wanted 6 – so Hello, dreadmill.

Today, for miles 75 - 80, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

75th mile Fern Clark
76th mile Brenda Piatt
77st mile Claudia Buzzard
78nd mile Sharon Peak
79rd mile Charles Wells
80th mile Craig Binford

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.


.

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Miles 69 - 74 With Friends

170 people “attending” the One Mile of Honor event. 10 days in and still running strong. 6 miles on the dreadmill for me.....because, I am a SISSY and do not like to run with the temps around 100 and the heat index around 10,000,000. That's just how I roll.

Today, for miles 69 - 74, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

69th mile Nick Jones
70th mile Ruth Hager
71st mile Rhonda Welch
72nd mile Marlin Unruh
73rd mile Anzie Tate
74th mile Cathy Phelps Williams

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.


.

Monday, August 9, 2010

Miles 61 - 68 With Friends

170...... WOOOO!!!!! Only need 9,830 more people to hit 10,000 for the One Mile of Honor event. Yeah, I DO like to dream big. Today was 8 miles on the treadmill- and I am starting to “steal” names from the Honor Scroll and the Relay events. Why? Because I have run out after one week and intend to go for the ENTIRE month. Hope nobody objects.....

Today, for miles 61 - 68, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

61st mile Joyce Motti
62nd mile Jackie Bailey
63rd mile Diane Middlesawart
64th mile Robert Powell
65th mile Lisa Young
66th mile Joyce Hebblethwaite
67th mile Richard Peery
68th mile Imogen Wiggins

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.


.

Sunday, August 8, 2010

Miles 57 - 60 With Friends

Today's run was short and sweet. Because I have ran for 21 days straight without a “rest” day and because time was limited (this is the main reason). It was 4 quick miles on the treadmill..... did I mention a heat index around 110 outside today? No thanks. The One Mile of Honor event is at 168 “attending”. Still picking up a few of the AWESOME people everyday. Thanks.


Today, for miles 57 - 60, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

57th mile Sam Frazier
58th mile Don Dockter
59th mile Pat Rhodes
60th mile Harold Rhodes

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.


.

Saturday, August 7, 2010

Miles 45 - 56 With Friends

Here we go..... Saturday morning run. My favorite, up at the crack of dawn to squeeze in a few miles before the rest of the world wakes up. Knocking down a decent run before the sun gets too high and things heat up, running like an Olympian, looking like a SUPERSTAR.

Unfortunately, ALL of that happened before I woke up. The snooze button did not exist this morning, it was straight to the on/off switch. Once I finally rolled out of bed about 7:45 (which is very late for me) I did not WANT to go for a run. It was too hot, my body was sore, I had blown it by sleeping in and had about 1,000 other excuses. Finally about 10:30 I decided that maybe a short 3 miles would be okay. It was. The 9 miles after that were great too. The VOICES had woke up and weren't going to listen to my whining. That is what I'm talking about. Everybody has them- they will usually make us do the right thing, the things we would rather not and the things we think we can't. Listen to the VOICES........ they are wise.

Two more awesome peeps have joined the One Mile of Honor event bringing the total to 166. WOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!! x166...... That is all I have to say about that. Since last Sunday I have been allowed by YOU to honor 56 people touched by cancer. This has been a great privilege for me but I am about to reach the end of my list. If anybody has more they want to share, it would be MY honor to run for them. I DO understand that some may question my motives and may be leery to send that information. As I have stated before, this is an odd request but I have an odd way of thinking. I believe in the power of numbers and the more people that are involved in the FIGHT, the better the chances.

Today, for miles 45 - 56, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

45th mile Mary Roberts
46th mile Charlie Schlicht
47th mile Dick Wiggins
48th mile Lynda Burke
49th mile Connie Cornielson
50th mile Kathi Smith
51st mile Grandma Turner
52nd mile Steve Clark
53rd mile Edwin Murphy
54th mile Dee Combs
55th mile Myron Beltz
56th mile Brenda Bass

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.


.

Friday, August 6, 2010

Miles 35 - 44 With Friends

Two more people have joined in the FIGHT. 164 now “attending” the One Mile of Honor event. Very cool. Originally, I thought if we could get 50 people involved that would be pushing it. Thanks to all that have got behind this effort and have helped spread the word. We have to keep at it, but I think 164 is pretty amazing.

It was a little frustrating to see how many have decided to “not attend”- because that number is so much higher (275). WAS. As usual when I run, things have cleared up in my head. I know that EVERYBODY cares on some level, nobody “likes” cancer. Because this is an odd request, to run or walk a mile, and it really does nothing substantial to solve the problem, it is easy to understand why they would decline. Add to that the FACT that just because I think it is a great idea........ well you see where this is going. Nothing to be frustrated about- besides, to decline means they had to, at the very least, think about the FIGHT for a few seconds and that is better than nothing.

Keeping the FIGHT on the “front-page” is a must- to relax means risking a missed opportunity and THAT would be cause for real frustration. 6 days in and WE are continuing to HONOR those we know, those we love and those we've never met. They are ALL in my heart.

Today, for miles 35 - 44, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

35th mile Kathleen Moore
36th mile JoAnn Stamper
37th mile Bill Hartley
38th mile Karen Trimble
39th mile Pam McCroskey
40th mile Debbie Rose
41st mile Barb Williams
42nd mile Barbara Crespino
43rd mile Toni Niedermayer
44th mile Art Niedermayer

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Miles 29 - 34 With Friends

Just a few each day........ that seems to be the trend. 162 people now “attending” the One Mile of Honor event. It was at 158 yesterday. When I checked the numbers before my run this afternoon, I was a little disappointed. Up only four?? But, as is usually the case when I run, things became much clearer in my little brain. Up only four?? turned into UP BY FOUR!!! WOOOOO!!!!!!! x4. This means that 4 more people have decided to jump in and do SOMETHING. Those 4 may know 4 more who may know 4 more who........ anyway, that is how I am looking at it. So, here on the 5th day of August, WE are still walking, running and skipping along to Honor those that most deserve it and managing to spread the word, if only by a little, each day. That's gotta make us all smile just a little, knowing that we are all thinking about loved ones and searching for ways to help.

Today, for miles 29 - 34, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

29th mile Harold Quellhorst
30th mile Mr. Ralph
31st mile Joe Breshears
32nd mile Gary Freeman
33rd mile Mary Williams
34th mile Brenda Herd

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.

.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Miles 23 - 28 With Friends

158 people have found a little time in their busy lives to dedicate at least one mile in honor of someone touched by cancer. Thank you for your willingness to do this. Remember to invite your friends and continue to spread the word- my reach is very limited- but through YOU, we can reach a huge number of people. Again, the “event” does last all month and only ONE mile is necessary- more is great, too. I would love to honor your loved ones also, so if you want, send me their names.

Today, as I put some miles in on the treadmill, I thought about all of those affected, including my mom and dad, by this monster. Lives are forever changed with just a few words from the doctor. Before I knew it, the tears were welling up......and for a change, I was good with that. It reminds me of the importance of doing SOMETHING and the tears signify a burning desire to do just that......SOMETHING. A few miles of running won't solve the problem but persistence, hope and dedication just might. At least it is SOMETHING. Better ideas? I'm listening.

Today, for miles 23 - 28, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

23rd mile Bob Young
24th mile Doug Rakes
25th mile David Sellars
26th mile Kelli Rose
27th mile Diane Tryon
28th mile Lonnie Combs

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.


In times of great despair and uncertainty, it helps to know you’re not alone and that there is an answer–hope.

.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Honor Miles 17-22 With Friends

157 AWESOME people in the One Mile of Honor event as of today. Please remember that it lasts all month and invite all YOUR friends. Keep spreading the word and keep posting your activities. All names that YOU put on the wall, I will also honor with a one mile run.

Today, for miles 17 - 22, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

17th mile Doyle Dennis
18th mile Tim Ewing
19th mile Barbara Baker
20th mile Ted Brantingham
21st mile Stephanie Phillips
22nd mile Charlotte Sellars

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.

Monday, August 2, 2010

Miles 11 - 16 With Friends

With the heat index so high, I opted for a more comfortable environment to put a few miles in. It was 6 miles on the Dreadmill while watching the first part of Cool Hand Luke. This movie is a classic and one of my favorites. There is a scene where “Luke” finds himself pitted in a jail-yard boxing match against a MUCH larger and stronger opponent. Of course he gets knocked down..... several times. But the thing about “Luke” is that he doesn't give up- with the odds stacked against him, he keeps getting back up. Even after it becomes evident to everybody, including his opponent, he doesn't quit. This “never-give-up” attitude seemed like the perfect message to receive as I put in these few miles.

Wow..... 153 AWESOME people in the One Mile of Honor event as of now. Please remember that it lasts all month and invite all YOUR friends. Keep spreading the word.

Today, for miles 11-16, it was my privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

11th mile Allen Bilbro
12th mile Ollie Grisham
13th mile Bill Grisham
14th mile Steve Brantingham
15th mile David Brantingham
16th mile Barbara Brantingham

Once again, I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Fight on, friends.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

10 Miles With Some Friends

August 1, 2010. Today is the “official” start for the One Mile of Honor Event. More than 120 people have accepted the invitation to participate and walk or run in honor of someone they know that has been touched by cancer. I don't know why it always amazes me that there are so many people that will step up when asked, but I am. It is an awesome quality they have – the desire to help without the promise of personal recognition or reward. With people like this in the FIGHT, we are destined to one day win. This little event will not cure cancer or even raise funds for research, but it will help keep the WAR on the front page and in our thoughts, along with honoring all the super-heroes that have battled and continue to battle the monster. Thank you to everyone that has dedicated themselves to this cause and are participating in this small attempt to HONOR. Please remember that while the event only lasts a month, the FIGHT will rage on.

I jumped the gun a little and ran 13 miles, IN HONOR OF ALL, yesterday. This morning was 10 miles on some fantastic trails down by Norfork Lake in Arkansas. The trails were rough, with spiderwebs the entire way, the heat and humidity made things less than desirable and a few falls along the way helped keep it interesting. The one thing that made the run EASY was the knowledge that a short 10 mile loop, under any conditions, is NOTHING compared to the trials that those with cancer face every day.

Today I had the highest privilege to run IN HONOR of some wonderful people.

1st mile Joe Kanzler
2nd mile Patsy Pierce
3rd mile Averille Pierce
4th mile Loy Ellis
5th mile Cloyd “Slim” Parsons
6th mile Louise Goodnight
7th mile Hannah Stutts
8th mile Linda Stutts
9th mile Colleen Wuderick
10th mile Peggy Cline

I am humbled and grateful to have been granted this privilege. They have joined the VOICES club and tomorrow, WE will run again and add a few more. Thank you all.