My bucket list isn’t getting any shorter…

Despite the fact that I have been systematically checking things off my bucket list (marathon, ultra, Ironman, and so on), it continues to grow. The newest addition? Thru-hike the Appalachian Trail. The latest desire is a result of a training run that John and I took last weekend along 20 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Apparently, the bucket list is a little bit like knowledge: the more you know, the more you realize you want to know. The more we do, the more we realize we want to do. We had traveled to Vermont seeking a training weekend in preparation …

Find your *something*

“I could never do that.” OR “I wish I could do that.” OR “I don’t know how you can train so much. I would die.” Through much of my training, I’ve heard people say these statements (or similar ones). I know people are saying these things in a complimentary way – and I am grateful for the support and words of encouragement. Yet, as odd as it may seem, these statements make me feel uncomfortable. I’m convinced that each of us have the potential to do and achieve amazing things. There’s no reason to wish to be able to do …

Thanks for the Recent Donations to the Iron Scholarship!

Much thanks to my supporters Dan & Mary Shaw, Kim & Rick Cote, Franny & Paul Kircher, and Lynn Barbato. Their recent generous support has brought my fundraising total to $590.60! Since we started training for the Ironman in January, we’ve swum, biked,  ran or weight trained for 125 hours, which translates into anywhere from 9 to 15 hours of training per week, and about 620 miles. While we push the limits of our physical celebrex endurance, your support will help students whose academic endurance is helping them realize their dreams. If everyone who visits this site donates just $5, …

25 Minutes of Bliss & Lessons Learned from Injury

“Before you come back next time, go for a short run. We need to see where that leg is at,” said Dr. Terry Andrus, my physical therapist. Wait, did I hear that correctly? Did he just clear me to go for a run? *Big smile* I guess he was reading my mind because he added, “Don’t make it a half marathon or anything. Easy and short. 20-25 minutes.” “Okay,” I replied, laughing. “I know. I know.” I was excited, but also a little bit fearful. The last time I had tried to run was February 2nd. I ran only 10 …

A quick fundraising update

I am blessed with a wonderful support system.  I’m raising money for the Iron Scholarship Fund, as part of my Ironman Lake Placid 2010 journey. I first posted about the charity just two short weeks ago, and I’ve already received contributions from several friends and family. Much thanks to Mary & Adam, Jeanne & John and John. Your support means so very much to me – and it will cymbalta also mean a lot to the lives of the students who receive the scholarship. If you would like information about how to donate to the Iron Scholarship, please visit the information page. And, by …

Balancing life’s demands: Work, training and helping others

As of late, my available “spare” time has dwindled to almost nonexistent. Despite a reduced load in training, I’m experiencing an increased load in work expectations. So, that “extra time” I dreamed of after the Bassman? It’s never appeared. But, I suppose that is the rhythm of life, our priorities and expectations ebb and flow into and out of the different responsibilities and interests that make up a life. At least, that’s what I’ve been thinking lately: priorities need to be organized and reorganized as we hit each major and minor goal we set for ourselves. Even as the pressures of …