We Ran Anyway...(part 1)

     It's been a month since I was supposed to have run my dream marathon, carrying the American flag through the 5 boroughs of New York City with thousands of exuberant fans lining 26.2 miles of the famous race course, cheering for their beloved country and all the dedicated runners who were looking to cross that glorious ING NYC Marathon finish line in Central Park...not so...not this year...God had different plans.

It was an exciting Thursday morning in the Bringgold home. We were preparing to leave on a 1100 mile trip to NYC.  After sending the younger kids off to school with Papa, we were on our way.  First night's destination: Toledo, OH, which was almost exactly half-way to NYC.  So very thankful to my dear friend and her family for generously sharing their home with us both there and back!

 Backing up a bit, Super Storm/Hurricane Sandy had barged into NY on Monday having no mercy on anything in her path. We had heard about the damage done, and had seen some footage but really didn't know or understand the extent of it. There was much debate on if the 36-year-old race would still be held.  New Yorker's are very proud of their traditions and their city.  This is not an easy decision.  It was announced Friday morning that the marathon was still on, so we continued our journey.  Although, all along, I had said, "It's going to take more than a hurricane to keep me from running!"  Throughout the morning, I had received several calls and texts from friends warning me not to run because they had heard on the news that some New Yorker's were very upset that the marathon was still on and they were planning to throw stuff at the runners...What?! Are they serious?!  I just shook my head and continued to say, "I'm still running, I knew in my heart I was meant to."  So we kept driving.

 We passed many caravans heading east hauling food, generators, clean-up equipment and other necessary supplies to aid the victims.  We knew gas was sparse, so we filled up on the east side of Pennsylvania, to avoid having to fill up at all until we returned back to Pennsylvania.  Many were already forming long lines for gas.  As we got closer to NY, some gas stations were even closed because they had no gas.

Then my uncle, the anchorman in Duluth called.  I filled him in on what was developing.  He informed their station's sports reporter, then she called me for an interview.  We had the interview, she wished me luck and we hung up.  Not even two minutes later my uncle sent me the dreaded text..."JEAN, THEY JUST CANCELLED THE MARATHON!"  ...(silence)... ~Keep in mind, we were only 2 hours away from our hotel~  The text continued, "call back, our news reporter wants to interview you again."   Honestly, at this point, I didn't know what to say, still stunned.  I shared with her the same feelings I'm certain that 47,000 other runners were feeling.  Obviously disappointment, but at the same time, empathy for the thousands who were devastatingly affected by Sandy, and probably a little confused as to why wait to cancel 36 hours before the start of the world's largest marathon.  "What now?" my husband asked. "I'm still gonna run," I responded.

I phoned my friend, a New Jersey resident who works in Manhattan.  I asked him, should we still be travelling east?  He assured me that our hotel was fine, and had not kicked anyone out just to make room for us.  He continued to say, "Jean, just run anyway..."  I had a major burning within and knew, this is why I came.  It wasn't for the personal glory of me carrying the flag past thousands of spectators, I needed to run so the flag could lift the spirits of the people of NY.  "That's it!" I said. "I'm going to run anyway, in Central Park, and carry out what I came here to do!"  I sent a mass email to my fellow Hope For the Warrior teammates inviting them to join me in Central Park the morning of the 4th.

We arrived to our hotel, only being honked at twice (good driving honey!) and after parking our car in the parking garage across the street from our hotel, which was located on Broadway, we had to unload all our luggage & supplies, then roll & carry them across Broadway, through the people and the traffic to our hotel...a little different than checking into a hotel in Iowa! ☺  It was dark.  We were tired and anxious to explore and get a better handle on things in the morning.

Our Hotel

Morning came as promised, and I was quite anxious to head to the Health and Fitness Expo, just to see if I could find and commiserate with other disappointed runners.  Weird reason, right?  As predicted, we found many other runners, picking up their bag with the bib number that shall never be used, taking pictures in front of the the huge mural of the Brooklyn Bridge, only to pretend that it might have been real.  Shopping for ING NYC Marathon apparel was fun... everything was half price.  I know, right?  The other 50% went to helping the hurricane victims. We learned so many stories of how and when people found out.  The worst  I had heard was of a man whose plane had just backed away from the terminal in South Africa (a 20-hr flight) when he found out.  Yikes!  Many had just picked up their bib numbers when it was announced over the loud speaker at the expo.  I met a couple who had on WI sweatshirts, and talked with them, sharing our disappointments, etc.  It was like one big therapy session.  A couple of girls had informed me that they had heard there was going to be a group meeting in Central Park, Sunday morning to 'run anyway'... "Interesting!" I said, "I had sent out an email about doing the very same thing."  Little did I know, I was not the only one with the burning desire to run...not even close...

The bib number I'll never use

 Boys at the Expo

                                                                           ~to be continued~

The Strength of a Team

Have you ever been apart of a team?  The comradery, the spirit, the enthusiasm, the strength, the support...all of those things are what someone should feel when apart of a team.  Over the past 4 1/2 months, my two oldest boys, have gotten to be apart of such a team.

Near the end of last year's school year, the head coach gave a little nudge to the seniors, one being my son, to get the team running at the beginning of summer.  It didn't take much to get them going.  There were 5-10 everyday, who showed up to run.  Some had never run before, some were veterans at the sport.

August came, when cross country officially starts, the boys were rearing to go.  They had "State Qualifying" in their eyes.  These kids worked so hard, and not just physically at practice, but also in creating the bond that teams should have.  As each meet passed, goals were met, the team flame grew larger, and the bond stronger.  Finally, it had come to the night before sectionals, where it is decided which teams go to state.  The team came to our home for a good old fashion spaghetti feed, and team building.  4 lbs of spaghetti, 1 very large bag of meatballs, 4 loaves of garlic bread, a large bag of salad and 2 pumpkin pies...these kids can eat!  It was not so much the amount of food that impressed me, but what happened afterward.  The seniors started, taking turns giving speeches.  Each congratulating the younger runners on a spectacular year and best wishes for the future.  Some tears were shed by the girls, who were not only team contributors by running, but also great cheerleaders and entertainers - they always had a way to liven things up with some silly rhyme or rap.  Then the juniors, sophomores and finally the freshmen spoke.  There was at least one in each group who gave appreciation to the rest of the team for making them feel important, and so much a part of the team.  These individuals admitted to being worried about not fitting in, and not being included.  With joy in their voices, they were so thankful for just the opposite to have happened.  I had never been more proud of a group of kids before.  The other coaches and I knew success had been achieved, no matter the results of the next day's race.

It was time to lay it all on the line for the big race the next day.  The captains took the reins and prepared their team with confidence and hope.  This was a fast course.  They all had a goal - to run under 18:30 for a cross country 5K (3.1mi) , hoping that would be good enough to earn their team a state-bound spot.

The runners took their place in the assigned lanes, the ref called out "set..." and BANG went the gun.  They were off!  This is a great spectator course as there are many places for them to see their favorite runners.  About 200 yards into the race, one of the lead guys from another school, got a bloody nose.  He didn't stop...he kept on truckin'.  Each time I saw him, he had more and more blood on his face and arms.  That's dedication.  Our boys had a strong start and were running well in a pack near the front, starting at about the 20th place or so.  That may sound far back, but other than one other school, most were individual runners.  To go to state, the team needs to pack together, near the front.  Each of our boys, looked stronger and stronger each time I saw them.  You could tell they were putting their heart and soul into every fiber of their body to keep pushing forward.  It came to about 100 yards before the finish - my favorite place to be.  This is where the beast comes out.  Each of our boys lit every ounce of booster they had.  They finished 23rd (18:03.9), 26th (18:04.2), 31st (18:16.5), 33rd (18:17.9), 39th (18:25.6)...they had achieved their goal of all five finishing under 18:30.  The wait for tallying up the team scores was killer.  Finally, they were posted.  Out of 14 teams, our team had placed 4th.  The boys were happy and sad at the same time.  They knew they hadn't made it to state, but they also knew they had achieved much more than that.  They had all run their butts off, PR'd (personal record), and they had created friendships that will last for a very long time. No one was to hang their heads that day.  These kids had done more than just turning in great times, they had included those that thought they might not ever be included, or feel like they mattered.  Every kid on that team knew, without a doubt, that they mattered, whether they came in first or last.  How can you ask for more than that?

In less than a week, I get the honor of being a part of a team whom I have never met.  I get to share my story with them in efforts to boost their excitement for the race and for our compassionate cause.  Our nation has a team that fights, and sacrifices daily just to keep us safe and free. The team I will run for, wants to make sure our nation's team does not get forgotten, nor unappreciated.  What an honor!  I am so thankful to our military for all they do, and I am so grateful to be a part of such an honorable team.

Are you ready?  New York - here we come!

Please consider donating to Hope for the Warriors

Meet Mike...

I received an email from my uncle who is an anchorman in the Duluth area.  He told me about a man their station had interviewed, who was running from the northern border of the US to the Gulf of Mexico in Texas.  His purpose:  to honor the lost soldiers of the Afghanistan war.  I never did see the story as our computer was not working properly, so I just kept about my day, thinking how cool it was at what this man was doing.

About a week later, I read an article in our local paper about the same man who would be running right through a town about 15 miles east of us.  In fact, there was to be a spaghetti dinner held in his honor, in which he would be the guest speaker.  Of course we were going!  I cancelled the kids activities for the night and off we went.

Mike is the one with the hat

Mike Ehredt is a proud veteran and a dedicated runner.  As we ate, he shared his story with us.  He was a postal worker, and woke up one morning, knowing he needed to do something more to honor our vets.  With many months of research and preparation, in 2007, he ran from the West coast to the East coast, over 4400 miles.  He placed a flag, in which he had prepared with a yellow tag, bearing the name of a lost soldier from the Iraqi war, their age, rank and hometown, every mile...EVERY MILE!  He ran 30 miles a day!  Most would think he had a van following behind with his gear and other necessities  Nope, not Mike.  He pushed a stroller, carrying only the things he needed for a few days.  He had mailed the other items to his hosts along the way, like new shoes, clean clothes, and more flags.  Several times he got stopped and questioned by the police about the stroller.  Imagine seeing a man, in the middle of summer, jogging across Nebraska, pushing a covered stroller...not a common sight.  He finally tried to have some fun with it and told the police that the baby got too heavy so he left it in a corn field.  Of course, he clarified his true purpose immediately following.

This year, Mike's goal is to run from the Canadian border to the Gulf of Mexico, placing a flag for a lost soldier from the Afghanistan war every mile, running a marathon a day.  I had the great honor of running 1 1/2 miles with him the morning after the spaghetti feed. A group gathered on the south side of Baldwin, WI.  Someone asked me if I was going to carry the flag the whole time.  I said, "Sure am.  I'll be carrying it 26 miles in November."  Then Mike turned around and said, "You can carry it 26 today!"  I laughed and said, "If I didn't have to take my little girl to her 2nd day of kindergarten, I'd be so very tempted!"  With a firetruck escorting from behind, the other supporters and I ran beside Mike while we talked about what it was like to do this every day.  He and I agreed that when you do something big, for a good cause, you seem to get an extra source of motivation and strength.  His pace was not fast, but that was not his purpose.  He wanted to honor every lost hero.  The younger runners in the group had the honor of following through Mike's process of placing a flag. First, he would take the flag, in a specific order, read the name, rank, age, & hometown.  Then he would place it in the ground, using a GPS to know where every mile would be.  We saluted it, and kept going for another mile.  He had set up an app, so that every flag could be located.  For instance, if you know someone who was killed in either the Iraqi or Afghanistan war, you could go to his website and find where that particular soldier's flag is and see a picture of it.  Cool huh?  He also had a gadget on his stroller that would send a signal every 3 minutes to let his website know where he is.  So, if he is close to you, and you feel like running with an incredible man, you'll be able to find him. He plans on finishing November 11th, how appropriate, Veteran's Day.

This experience has truly shown me that there is so much hope in our country.  With people like Mike, who are ready to drop their everyday life to do something extraordinary to honor those who give everything and ask for nothing in return, our country will continue to become stronger.  I believe there is hope.  I believe there are many who love this country and love their freedoms.  I believe in America!

There are just 19 days until I have the honor of carrying the American flag through the streets of New York for an incredible organization who helps and honors those who have sacrificed:  our heroes, our soldiers.  I am just over 1/3 of the way of reaching my goal of raising $3000 for this group. If you would like to be apart of this achievement, please go to the website below and donate.  It will be ever so greatly appreciated!

To donate to Hope for the Warriors

To follow Mike on his quest

9/11 Tribute Patriot Relay Run

Thanks to the inspiration of others, a fundraising activity has been organized.  This idea was developed so fast, I wasn't sure it could be pulled off in time.  Thank you Tera Busker for your idea, and for so many others whose input was very helpful!  We did it! And here is the scoop:

9/11 Tribute Patriot Relay Run

A Fundraiser for

Hope For the Warriors® 

Where:     St.Croix Central High School Track  ~  1751 Broadway St., Hammond, WI

When:      Saturday, Sept 8^th  ~  9am to 11pm (Patriot Ceremony to start at 8:30am)

Cost:       $5 per lap / $25 5+ laps

To Register for a time slot:    715-220-1197 or just come J

Runnners/Walkers will have the opportunity to carry an American flag for as many laps as they wish to honor those who died valiantly on 9/11 and those who continue to fight bravely for our freedom. *One of the flags used will be carried through the streets of New York in the ING NYC Marathon on Nov 4^th.

In Memory: This is a great way to never forget the heroes from that tragic day and how our nation came together to become stronger & more united!

Hope for the Warriors® has a mission to enhance the quality of life for post-9/11 service members, their families, and families of the fallen.

“Proud to be a Patriot” bracelets will be available for purchase *all profits will be donated to 

                                                                                                                                        Hope for the Warriors®

Food ~ Music ~ Plenty of Parking ~ Bleachers from which to cheer ~ GO USA!

Click here to donate online

**Please pass this along to anyone you know who would love to be apart of such a good cause**

Dreams Really Do Come True...

Sha-Zam! Summer has flown by, like it does for so many.  There have been multiple patriot runs, Grandma's Marathon, Yellowstone Challenge 8 mi & 5K, Red White & Boom! 1/2 marathon (5mi), and the River Falls Days 10K...but before I tell those stories, I have some very exciting news to share.

I have been invited to run the New York Marathon for a charity called Hope for the Warriors!  Running the ING NYC Marathon has been a long-time dream of mine, especially with the American flag.  This is the city that has been the pinnacle of our country's united spirit.  Eleven years ago, we could greet our arriving visitors at the gate of an airport.  Eleven years ago, we could enter entertainment events without being searched.  Eleven years ago, life was very different.  September 11, 2001 changed life as we knew it.  New York had uninvited guests who tried to destroy a nation. Fear and devastation rang out far and wide through the entire city and across the nation.  As the people of New York searched for lost loved ones, and tried to understand the madness, the rest of us in the US watched the news as it broadcast 24/7.  Our thoughts and prayers were sent to heaven every minute of the day.  We were kinder to one another, more patient with one another.   We helped each other more willingly.  We eagerly gave to those in need.  We came together.  We were united, truly united.  I will never forget that day, or the weeks that followed; the images, the emotions, the challenges, the changes, the fight that came out in Americans to protect our freedom.  We did not cower, we did not surrender, we came together to help the injured and the families of the lost.  We fought back.  This is why I run with the flag.  I want people to never forget how they felt that day as an American.

In my opinion, there is no other more deserving city in this beautiful nation to have the flag run through their streets, than New York City.  For it is there, where a horrible tragedy turned our country into a stronger and more united nation.  I'm honored to have that opportunity not only to run in one of the largest and most well known marathons in the world with our beautiful flag, but also to raise money to help our soldiers, our warriors, our heroes.  Hope for the Warriors is a non-profit organization who helps injured soldiers, families of the fallen, and our heroes of 9-11.  I am so grateful to have this opportunity.

Along with all the required training involved with preparing for a marathon, I also need to raise money for Hope for the Warriors.  My goal is to raise $3000.  If I can raise more, even better!  It goes to a very good cause!  Please, please help support by either donating or spreading the word.  So many (especially me) would be very grateful ☺  Just imagine, you could be apart of something big - helping the heroes of our country and getting the flag to NY!  I know there are patriots everywhere who always want to help, here's is your chance!  Thank you so much for your support!

The ING NYC Marathon is November 4th, 2012.  (2 days before a very big vote) It will be televised.  Be there with me!  I run for every patriot in this nation!

Here are some important links:

To donate to Hope for the Warriors & sponsor me

To learn more about Hope for the Warriors

Most Exciting Finish Ever!!!

Patriot Run #10 ~ William A. Irvin 5K ~ Duluth, MN

     Friday Afternoon gets pretty geared up in Duluth, MN.  Our group of 10 runners entered in the William A. Irvin 5K, start preparing for the big event.  We got our numbers pinned on, our chips on our shoes, & Captain America tattoos in place...we were ready to rock-n-roll!  For the first time, all members in my family are running, even the 5 year old.  Our friends and one of their daughters are entered, hoping to complete their first 5K this time.  (Last year, we had the wrong start time and weren't even parked when the start horn blew!)  I'm meeting my fellow Patriot runner, Kurt, near the William A. Irvin boat.  We will both be carrying the flags for this evening's event.

5K Runners

A crowded start

With over 1600 runners, Kurt & I decided to start near the back, as to avoid any face flapping behind us.  Low and behold, Sasquatch, from Jack Link's Beef Jerky, was in line with us.  Ever hugged a Sasquatch before?  I did, and lived to tell about it!  ☺ Starting near the back has it's challenges.  We had to dodge people right and left just to get up to pace. This must have went on for 1/2 to 3/4 of a mile, with many cheers from an exuberant crowd along the way.  I even heard a "Go Bringgold!"  from someone I knew not.

It took about one mile to get up to speed.  By that time, I had seen my son, Jordan, already on the return, as this was an out and back course.  One of the reasons that I love this particular 5K is the fans.  They are fantabulous! And they are everywhere! Almost the entire way!  There are cowbells, clappers, signs, cheers, trumpets, tubas, cheerleaders...it's awesome!  The man playing the tuba stepped onto the road and jogged with us playing, It's a Grand 'Ole Flag .  How cool is that?!

There were many who saluted, ever so respectfully.  Every time that gets me. It's so hard to cry and breathe while running at the same time, so often, I have to hold back.   I just know that there is a story behind their valiant patriotism. 

A Grand Finish

Now, the excitement begins...we headed into the final corner, around the DECC, that slingshots the runners down the final stretch to the finish by the boat.  The spectators must be several people deep.  All I hear are cheers and chants of U-S-A! U-S-A! Getting louder and louder.  I see arms and fists in the air, mouths open, hands clapping...I imagined that is what it felt like to be a US Olympian...unreal!  As Kurt & I rounded that corner we had the same reaction, without knowing it or planning it...flags held high, picked up the pace, arms in the air, and hands to our ears.  That crowd was insane!  We had found the mother-load of patriots!  That final 60 seconds will forever remain in my mind as the most exciting finish to any race I have ever run...ever.  The announcer announced "American flag" multiple times.  I really couldn't hear the rest of what was said above the crowd..

Video of the 5K finish

 Man! I have never been so proud to be an American!  This was such a great prelude to Grandma's marathon weekend.  Now it was time to prepare for tomorrow...26.2 miles, #11 Patriot Run and my 2nd with the American flag. 

The flag that hangs near the start/finish of the 5K

Who Are Your Heroes?

     As Grandma's Marathon weekend approaches, I have been thinking about all the heroes in my life.  Every do that?  Just stop to think about those people who have made the biggest difference in your life when you needed them most?  And I 'm not talking about Iron Man, Hulk, Thor, or Captain America...although I am a huge fan!  I'm talking of the real life ones that don't get T-shirts made for them.  I think everyone's list could be quite long, however, I have some to share with you.

When marathon training began back in February, everyone knows how miserable the weather can be here in Wisconsin that time of year.  14 miles was on the schedule one Saturday, probably in early March.  It was cloudy, misty/rainy, cold, and windy.  Last year's race attests to the fact that I don't do well in the cold.  I had gotten to about the 10th mile, when thoughts of calling it quits entered my mind.  I thought, my oldest son could come get me in his car, because my husband was out of town.  I made it another mile, when the battle in my head was leaning towards enduring to the end.  Then it rained a little harder, the wind blew a little brisker...I so wanted to sit in a warm car.  At mile 12, I called my son, Nathan, and told him I needed him to bike with me the remainder of the run so I don't give up.  He stopped what he was doing (probably sitting on the couch, in a warm house, watching tv) and soon I could see him on his bike coming toward me.  I suddenly had the desire to finish.  I don't know if I ever told him that he was my hero that day. ☺

Later in March, a great tragedy came to our community.  A well loved couple was hit by a drunk driver while riding their motorcycle on a freak, very warm, St. Patrick's Day.  The woman was killed, and the man lie in the hospital for weeks in an induced coma.  The couple happened to be the parents of two amazing boys who I had the opportunity of coaching last fall, one of which was also a good friend of my other son, Zac.  Naturally, everyone's heart broke at the loss of a wonderful lady, a man who has years of recovery ahead, and two young boys who, for the time being, were parent-less.  I am so grateful to live in the community that I do.  I have never seen people come together as they did, to not only help the the two boys, but the prepare to help the father throughout his recovery.  How blessed we are.  The first time I saw the two boys after the accident, was at a middle school track meet.  I have never seen such courage and strength in two amazing young boys.  They had radiant smiles on their faces, just like their mom had on her face every time I saw her.  The younger of the two came in first in the event he competed in.  It was obvious, they weren't going to dwell on "woes me" and focus on their future...just as their mother and father have raised them to do.  Again, I had found two more heroes.

Last spring, I lost one of my very best friends to melanoma.  She fought a long and hard year and a half before it overtook her frail body.  I have never seen such determination, such courage, such positiveness, such faith.  She left two small boys and a loving husband and a whole slew of friends and family.  She is missed greatly, but never will be forgotten.  I run a race dedicated to her every year that helps fund research to find a cure for melanoma.  I feel her so strongly running with me, as we once did in high school track.  She was added to my list of heroes quite some time ago.

Just recently, a friend notified me that she had been recently diagnosed with breast cancer, and that her husband had left her during her mastectomy...yeah...I know what you all are thinking.  She, on the other hand, is still so positive, and wants to focus on the future, for her and her children.  I just shake my head with an open mouth, and a heavy heart.  She amazes me.  She doesn't know it yet, but she is also one of my heroes.

When I hurt my back and was found helpless for two weeks, there were women who just showed up to help out....heroes again.

When my neighbor, who is battling cancer, comes up to me on the road, with her walker, and tells me she is so proud of me and my accomplishments... I'm thinking to myself, I chose to do all this intense running.  She didn't choose to get cancer, to loose bone strength in her back, and have to use a walker.  She's proud of me?  How humbling is that.  I think the world of that woman and love how positive and radiant she always is.

I can't forget to mention my mother and father...actually both sets. (I'm lucky enough to have two of each ;) How much they have loved me through thick and thin and how they have taught me what is right.  I hope I have been the loving parents they have been to me.

My husband and my children, give me strength and purpose everyday.  I wouldn't be me, without them. ♥

My greatest hero is Christ.  Without Him, none of this "life" would amount to anything.

My list wraps up with all the men and women who have sacrificed so much so that I can live my simple little life, in the country, with my five children, amazing husband, my loving animal companions, and to be able to do the things that I love to do...run...and run free.

As one of my favorite artists, Gretchen Wilson, has written so perfectly in her song, Blue Collar Done Turn Red sings,

"My flag's still flyin'

There ain't no denyin'

I'm American born and bred

Still proud and united

Bring hell and I fight it

This blue collar done turn red!

to hear the song, go to:              Gretchen's song of Blue Collar Done Turn Red 

So I ask you, who is your hero?  Whomever it may be, be sure to thank them.  They may not even realize the good that they are providing or have done.

...next stop...Duluth ☺

Finally, A Run for the Veterans! ~Patriot Run #8

helicopter parked by finish line

     As Veteran's Day approached, I was hoping to find a race nearby, and sure enough, one was just up the road 10 miles.  After my traditional race morning regimen of drinking lots of water, eating whatever my stomach can handle, getting race attire on, taping what needs to be taped, packing the bag,  & rolling out the kinks, my wonderful husband drove me to the VFW in New Richmond, WI.  The finish was very recognizable as it had a very cool helicopter parked by it.  The start was a block away or so, so I unfurl my running companion, stretched and jogged with Dan to the start line.  As we got closer to the start line, we were excited to see another flag!  It was carried by a man I see often in various races in the area.  He carried it proudly.  Though I was a bit worried for him, as the pole was wooden and probably would become quite heavy throughout a 10 mile race.

The small 10 mile race group was rearing to go when a little tune was played to begin the race.  As I crossed the starting mat, a man said, "Go Jean!"  Not sure who it was, but I know he was a flag fan!  My friend, Ali, joined me once again for most of the race.  Our plan was to run the 10 mile race, then run 10 miles home to get in our 20 mile run for our training for the upcoming marathon.

The first part of the race took us through town.  It was peaceful, and just the right temp.  I ran behind the other patriot runner for a couple miles, without him even knowing I was there, then he went out ahead.  Ali & I ran together for at least half the race.  I told her to go on ahead if she felt good, so she did.  She ran with a gal and little conversation with her about how some Americans don't truly understand how blessed we are.  Ali had lived in China for a year.  She had come to realize and appreciate the freedoms we have here, that the Chinese do not.

There was significant wind for a good part of the race, probably more than I've ever encountered.  There were times I needed to hold the pole like a joust just so the flag wouldn't fly away.  My "Papa-razzi" arrived, snapping pictures like crazy, just like when I was younger at track meets, etc.  He made me feel so important!  He snapped some, then drove off.  We turned a corner, went up and down a very windy hill, and there he was again - "Click! Click! Click!"  I passed him and he drove off.  Then the course led us down a little hill and over a beautiful little bridge, and guess who was there clicking away?  Yep, only this time, he was standing on top of his car!  What a goof!

taken from the top of Papa-razzi's car

At every water stop and corner, there were Vets who were volunteering as helpers for the race.  It was such a pleasure to thank them as I passed.  The rewarding part is that they thanked me back, every time.  I just hope they know how grateful so many are for what they have done for this country.

We had turned another corner, and thankfully the wind had subsided a bit.  Three miles to go.  My husband had parked alongside the course, set his camp chair out, and was sitting and cheering like he was at a parade.  Every athlete knows, it is always more fun when someone is cheering!

Everyone was pretty spread out at this point.  I could hear a train in the distance.  I remember crossing some tracks a mile or two back.  Sure hope everyone made it across!  Finally we were headed back to town.  The flag was waving proudly as I turned the final corner.  I just love bringing that flag across the finish line.  It really gets me thinking of how our military gets to the finish line - no matter the conditions - and how good it must feel to be called to serve in far away countries, do their duty, then return home to their families.  That is their finish line, and it is a much longer race.

to the finish line!

After the race, a volunteer came up to me and said, "I am just amazed at how you carry that flag.  You stand for everything good in America."  I almost cried.  Honestly, I didn't know what to say, other than, "Thank you, I'm honored."

To top it off, I actually placed 1st in my age group!  I was so grateful to have had the opportunity to run that day to show my gratitude to those who have done so much to keep us free!

Thank you to ALL Veterans!

Papa-razzi, Ali,  & me

Patriot Run #7 ~ Uff-Da! (1/2 M)

A friend of mine, the gal who ran Willow River 10K with me last year, told me about a half-marathon race in a small town near us, called the "Uff-Da" run.  Appropriately named to honor their Norweigen heritage.  The complete course is run on an abandoned railroad bed, out & back, starting and finishing on main street.  Never having done this race, I figured it would have a small turnout, and with it all being run in the woods, I debated not running with the flag and just using it as a training run.  When I shared my thoughts with my wonderful husband, he simply asked, "What exactly are you debating?  You should carry the flag...that's what you do." So I did.  Good call.  One of the most responsive races yet.

I went alone, as Dan was scheduled to take our daughter to a required 4-H event.  I felt like wearing my Captain America shirt over my running shirt just to go pick up the packet, & do all that you do before a race.  I love what Captain America stands for!  He rocks!  One guy saw me coming and exclaimed "Captain America! Yeah!"  I said, "Isn't he awesome?!"  I thought to myself, "just wait 'til I pull out the flag..." I have to admit, I feel there is a little Captain America in my blood ☺

At the start line, which was on main street, I could not locate my friend, Alli.  I figured, I'll find her eventually.  I unfurled Old Glory just as the Star Spangled Banner was being sung by an ever so sweet & soft voice.  I like to start near the back, so I do not flap anyone.  There were a few announcements, the whistle blew, and we were off!  I had my new Newton shoes on, flag in hand, and I felt good!  It was a beautiful 72 degrees, sunny with a slight breeze.  A little warm for a 1/2 marathon, but I'll take that over 40 degrees and windy!

Shortly after we got onto the dirt/gravel trail, a man come up next to me, curious as ever.  It made for good conversation, and help with a good strong pace.  The path took us through a tunnel, so dark, I had to ask the man (who was from this small town) if there were any potholes I should worry about.  He said no, that he runs on this trail often.  The path was beautiful, with trees on both sides, and even an occasional pond on the side.

I felt great until mile 5...my left foot fell almost completely asleep.   WHAT THE HECK?!  I had not experienced this one.  I figured I had tied my shoe to tight and would have to stop to loosen it.  There were volunteer firefighters and police officers at each road crossing to make sure no runners would get hit by cars and to help any runners who get injured.  I would have had to ask one of them to hold the flag so I could check things out, but by the time I came to the next road, it was better.  So I kept running.

The fore-runners had turned at the half-way point and were headed back.  They were cruising to say the least.  Yet the lead woman had the energy to cheer and clap for me as she passed.  Then the next  few runners also cheered and gave a thumbs up...then the next, and the next, and the next...it was crazy!  I even heard my name a couple of times, and didn't know these people. There was one I recognized out of the whole bunch.  I felt so honored. Then I saw Alli.  We came toward each other yelling, and gave a quick hug, THEN she actually turned around again to run with me!  What a friend!  That whole section of the race was super energizing!  I had found a whole boat-load of patriots in this little race!

Eventually, Alli moved ahead and I could feel myself slow down.  It was warm.  Water seemed sparse.  A women came up beside me as said, "I am always amazed when I see people running with the flag."  She then told me that her son served in the US Navy and she was going to see him in a couple of weeks and they were set to run the San Diego marathon together.  I told her good luck, and to thank her son.  She replied, "I do every time I see him."  Cool.

Around mile 9, Alli had turned around to shout, "Yea! Go Jean!"  She was about 400 yards ahead of me.  It gave me a little burst ☺  With 3 miles to go, another women came up beside me to say, "Good job!"  I told her the same.  She said, "Yeah, but you're carrying a flag!...Amazing!"

Mile 11, looked awfully welcoming.  The firefighters & police officers were so very encouraging.  They sure liked seeing the flag.  One even swiped a picture of me running passed on his cell phone.  I try to thank them as I pass, they are the heroes.

I was able to pick up the pace more at mile 12.  I could hear faint sounds of sirens and cheers.  I knew what that meant...all the water I wanted!  We left the trail and returned back onto main street, with about 400 yards to go.  Alli was just ahead.  People cheering on both sides - man that feels nice!  I crossed that glorious finish line and headed straight for the water.  The volunteer said we could just dip our cups in the  coolers because it's quicker. I asked if I could dip my whole head in it...ha ha.

Then things began to happen that I was not expecting.  A woman came up to me and introduced herself.  She was one of the ones who had shouted my name at the half-way point.  Turns out, she was my husband's, commuting coworker's wife.  I had heard much about her because she does very well in races, and finally got to meet her.  She said she had recognized me from the article in the paper about my endeavors.  Then other runners came up to me, grabbed my wrist, looked me in the eye, and thanked me, truly thanked me...then walked away.  This happened a few times.  Then a volunteer woman came up to me and just about hugged me.  Probably didn't because I was just a little sweaty...and smelly, probably.  She and I agreed how so many do not appreciate our freedom and how our freedom is slowly being whittled away.  I explained to her that my hope was to find other patriots, and to promote the fact that freedom is worth fighting for.  She agreed!  We kept talking and kept giving one another goose bumps every time we talked about how blessed we are to be a free people.  I told her that my goal was to run in the NY marathon in November, she recited a scripture to me and said she would pray for me.  A christian patriot...beautiful!

                                                                                       ...And to think I almost didn't carry the flag.
                                                                                                  ...so thankful I did ☺

Flag Flies Through the U of M

 
      With temperatures in the upper 30's, wind blowing the chairs across the deck...I wasn't really looking forward to running Patriot Run #6 the following day.  Goldy's 5K and 10 mile run were to start at 8 am on the campus of the University of Minnesota with a grand finish in the new TCF stadium.  You might recall that stadium being the back-up Vikings stadium on Monday Night Football when the Metrodome collapsed in December of 2010 due to 17 inches of snow in one snowfall.

Mikala & Zac on 50 yd line

                                                                                                 

We woke up to glorious sunshine and 50 degrees!  It was as if the heavens had opened and said, "Let today be a good day to run!"  This was the 2nd annual race, therefore, there could be many things improved.  Overall, it really was a fun race.  Packet pick-up was inside the building of the stadium, two floors up.  Many people were still in line, waiting to get their number so they could get back downstairs, and outside, stretched and ready to run.  The 10 mile began first, with many people still in line, they were allowed to the front of the lines for obvious reasons.  As the start of the 5K neared, communication with the runners in line halted.  I was not the last one in line.  After taking my sweatpants off, proceeding down two flights of escalators, and going outside, I barely had 30 seconds to unfurl the flag and get to the end of a very, very long starting line.  The poor flag had not been readied since the last Patriot Run back in October.  The top ring was twisted slightly, and I was not able to fix it.  The flag still waved on as I began the 3.1 mile journey through the campus of the U of M.

My estimation was at least 1500 people in the 5K, no chip timing, (another thing that might be a great addition for next year), so times were quite irrelevant.  It must have taken me at least 3 minutes just to get to the start line, because it was too crowded to run, so I had to walk.  When there is that many people, I try hard to respect their space and keep the flag as close to me as I can.  With the runners gradually spreading out, I was able to break into a jog, having to keep on the sidewalk or very edge of the street, so I could both pass runners/walkers and steer clear of others getting face flapped.  The weather could not have been better; 50+ degrees, sunshine, no wind...it was nice reprieve from the day before.

Girls with Goldy

With many twists and turns (which really made the course fun and interesting) I had to stay on the very edge of the street or curb.  Twice, as I was running right beside a street sign, I did not lower the flag enough and made a big "CLONG" as I ran past.  It's been awhile since I had run with it.  All the way, I kept thinking, "okay, watch out for the runner on my right, don't trip on the little boy in front of me, duck for the tree, hand is achy - time to switch...OH NO there is a man walking toward me on my left side with a wall on the other side of him!"  At that instant, as I ran past, the flag wrapped right around his face..."Sorry", I yelled :(  Hope he still is a fan.☺

Ava & I on Jumbo-Tron after her race

Weaving through so many people, it was encouraging to hear the comments, sometimes to me, and sometimes to themselves.  "One nation under God...very nice" I heard someone say behind me.  (That is what is printed on the back of my shirt)  The police officers who were helping clapped or gave a thumbs up as I ran past.  Each group of college student volunteers, would chant "USA, USA!" or shout "Go America!" Their energy is so encouraging.  One guy, ran up next to me and said, "Alright!  The American Flag! Right on!" as he gave me knuckles.  I wondered if he had served in the military, or just had patriot blood in him.

As we came to the stadium, we ran around the outside of it first before heading into the tunnel.  A man asked if the flag was heavy, I told him, it actually isn't...unless it is windy.  Going through the tunnel made me feel pretty important, not sure why, but it did.  As we came onto the field, we were also pictured on the jumbo-tron screen which is the 2nd largest in college football.  The announcer tried to announce most everyone's name as we crossed the finish line, as most of the names had been printed on the race number.  I didn't have a name on my tag, just the flag.  He announced "...Let's hear it for the United States Flag, ladies and gentlemen, huh?!   There ya go..."  Great announces really make you feel good about your accomplishments, right?  I found it very fitting that my name wasn't read, but that the flag was announced.  Contrary to what some might think, I don't carry the flag for me to be in the spotlight, I carry it for everybody else to cheer and get excited about being a red-blooded American.  In years to come, people might remember the flag at a particular race, but not the runner...and that's okay with me!

The Finish Video

                                                             

Mikala playing on the field

Overall, it was a very fun morning.  The girls each ran a race halfway around the stadium, through the tunnel, and onto the field, each receiving a bag with a cute gopher toy and a ball.  The ball came in handy for playing while the awards were being handed out.  The day was beautiful, the turf felt so warm, as I laid upon it imagining I was at the beach...and dreaming of the next patriot run...  ☺



               

                 

       

Gearing up for Grandma's 5K & the Full marathon with an added surprise...

                       ~to be continued~

              



                                                                             
                                                                                       

I have a new Spring in my Step

What strange weather we have had here in WI...I'll take it!  70's & 80's in March...oh yeah!  For someone like me that gets cold so easily, it was so refreshing being able to run outside and not worry about hypothermia.  I've seen birds on my runs I don't normally see until May.  "Welcome back!" I say, "welcome back!"

The running saga continues.  Track season is beginning.  Road races are filling.  Goals are being set. Shoes are being purchased.  There are so many out enjoying these country roads on foot, and on bike for various reasons.  Some days it seems so hard to get off the comfy couch, get into running attire, and get outside!  But, I feel so much better when I return.  I laugh more.  I'm not so feisty (as my husband says), and apparently I say yes more (as my children say).  They always know if I haven't run yet.  If I am a little on the grumpy side, they'll say, "Mom, you should go for a run..."  I usually take the hint.

NEW SHOES ☺  It is always fun to get new shoes.  My joints always feel better.  It seems as there is a fresh spring in my step, and they always look so new and fast! Two of the boys needed shoes as well.  One tried a more minimal shoe and the other a more traditional shoe.  The one with the minimal shoe has run a few times on the treadmill already. (He is in 6th grade).  He can hardly wait to run outside with them for track.  We always wear them inside for a while to make sure it is the right fit.  My new shoes, however, the ones I have been getting for years, just didn't cut it this year.  I have been wearing Nike's since the 7th grade. I ran varsity starting that year in track, and have mentally connected great running with Nike.  Switching to another brand is very difficult for me because running for me has always been so much more mental than anything else.

My co-coach had introduced me to the Newton shoe.  I had never heard of it.  I read an article about the Newton's in the Runner's World magazine, April 2012 issue.  Newton shoes are based on the concept of natural running.  Makes sense to me.  Although, all my life, I have run heel-toe.  That's what we were taught back in the 80's.  I also love that these shoes are an American based company in Boulder,CO (my birthplace :) That helps the mental aspect of things.  So I located a store almost an hour away and made the plunge.  So far, I like them.  There is a definite spring in my step.  I feel I can run farther without being so fatigued.  It is recommended that with these shoes, they should be "eased" into, because they do promote a mid-foot strike rather than what I was used to, which is a heel strike.  It takes some time for the Achilles tendon and calf muscle to adjust, but in the long run (get it--long run--) it promotes stronger legs, and more efficient running which equals faster times and less injuries.  I am all for that!  Are the Newton shoes ready for a season of patriot runs? I sure hope so. Maybe I'll get lucky and find a red, white & blue pair just for me ;-).  I can't wait to get that flag flying, hear the crowd cheering, and feel patriotism pumping!


www.newtonrunning.com

The Colors that Never Fade

After a month or more of healing from the loss of our beloved golden retriever & my back injury, I'm back in the running shoes again!  My back feels great & I'm ready to begin the road to Patriot Run #6, Grandma's Marathon.  I have to say, as exciting as running Grandma's again will be, trying to stay motivated in Wisconsin during the winter is pretty tough for me.  Running on the treadmill gets old fast...I can't wait for spring!

Last month, in my son's grade, a couple of students decided to irritate their teacher by not standing to salute the flag during the Pledge of Allegiance. The teacher decided to use that scenario and assign everyone in the grade to write a paper on why or why not we should salute the flag.   Here is the paper my son turned in:

    The Colors that Never Fade

      Do I have to salute the U.S. flag? It’s just a flag, right? Wrong! The flag of the United States of America is not just material sewn together to look pretty waving on poles throughout the nation.  It represents so much more, more than is even realized by many Americans.  It stands for freedom, sacrifice, courage, strength, and unity.  Does it deserve to be saluted and respected? Absolutely!

This nation began as a place where people traveled from across the seas to pursue their dreams; and to be free.  To this day, people still come for the very same reason.  This country is not free by accident.  Thousands sacrificed time and their very lives to protect what some take for granted every single day...freedom.  Americans are free to choose how they want to make a living; how they wish to worship God; where they want to live; how big or small they want their families; or how they want to voice their opinions.

On the flip side, that very same freedom that people have died for, also gives citizens the right to not work, not worship, not marry, and unfortunately, not salute the flag.   What a horrible tragedy that is!  That would be like not saying, “thank you” to a military personnel for taking that bullet to the head, or to the POW who was tortured because he or she was loyal to the country that supports them.  A postcard might as well be sent saying, “Yeah, I really don’t care that you are missing the birth of your child just so I can choose to live how I want to live.”  Being free does give us that choice, but is it right?

It is the patriots of this country who understand and appreciate what the U.S. flag represents.  It is the ones who have left their homelands plagued by war and violence who come here to give thanks everyday that they are now free.  It is the athletes who have changed their citizenship so they can participate in events they could not have in their homeland.  It is the mother and father raising their children in a land where there is peace and opportunities abound.  It is the student who longs for their brother, sister, father, or mother because of the war.

The flag of the United States of America deserves to be respected and saluted.  It gives us the freedom to make that valiant choice to salute, rather than the alternative of being forced to.  Remember that fact during every pledge, during every performance of the National Anthem, and every time you simply pass it waving in the breeze.  Be a patriot, stand up, respect the thousands whose blood has been spilt, and salute Old Glory!  May God bless America!

He made me proud to be his mom! Not sure what happened to the students who didn't stand, but I think it made my son think a little more about his freedom. Who knows, maybe there were more.

 

"Run with the flag, walk with the flag, honor it, respect it, protect it.  As long as it keeps waving, we are free!"  ~J Bringgold

The Unexpected Stumbling Blocks

     I wanted to begin the year with exciting goals.  I wanted to focus on each day as a new day to begin a quest that might be new or just a continuation from the day before.  I had motivation. I had enthusiasm.  I had a purpose.  I was ready!   I set my goals so high, my husband thinks I am crazy.
                                                               But...
I've been dealt a different start to the new year.  One I wasn't expecting at all, nor ready for.  I had to give up being independent.  I had to give up the use of my legs for a time.  I had to give up a very dear family member...only to learn lessons I might not otherwise have learned.

~On the 9th of January, I had felt a twinge in my lower back while putting on my boots to go feed my horses.  It was enough to have my chiropractor adjust it, and he did.  Still tender and vulnerable, the next morning, while trying to lift our dying beloved dog up to stand (because she had not stood for over 24 hours), something shattered in my back, or at least that is what it felt like.  I went down, not able to get back up, with one hand on the sliding glass door, and the other on my knee, and in significant pain, I was scared.  The pain was so severe, I was shaking and crying uncontrollably.  My first thoughts:  I can still feel my toes and wiggle them; & What am I supposed to learn from this trial?  Thankfully, my 5 year old was home, and was able to get me the phone.  After multiple calls to my husband, & friends to no avail,  I called my son at the high school.  They gathered him up, and sent him home right away.  My chiropractor came to my house after calling in a panicked desperation.  I finally got a hold of a good friend who dropped everything and came right over.  Before they had arrived, I had crawled up onto a chair to use as a walker to gimp into the living room where I again collapsed.

Aside from the childbirth-like pain, my fear, of course, was wondering if I'd ever be able to stand again.  This is not a easy thing to even admit, especially when you are a runner.  My husband finally made it home with a work vehicle because he had carpooled that day, leaving him with no car.  He was my hero that day and the next, getting me from bed to the bathroom and back, or to the living room (on the floor).  Putting any pressure on my lower back at all, or basically being upright, was almost unbearable.  Lots of ice and ibuprofen helped the inflammation go down so the healing could happen, as well as rest & daily visits to the chiropractor for those first few days.

I was surrounded by angels for the next 2 weeks.  Good friends came to not only take care of me, but my family, and our poor dog as well.  By now the only thing Peek-a-Boo (our dog) would eat was lunch meat.  On January 14th, we had to say good-bye to our dear Peek.  We were so grateful for the almost 14 years of companionship and love that wonderful dog offered to our family, but it was one of the hardest days of our lives.  It killed me inside to not be able to take care of her those last few days myself, as I had when she was a puppy, and when she had had her two large litters of her own puppies.  I hope she now understands how I wanted so much to be lying by her side, but was unable.

Three weeks from the injury, I'm almost back to normal.  I've been given the okay to start running soon.  So what did I learn from this trial?  Many things, I learned. First off, to slow down!  It's okay to take a step back and watch for a while, so I know where the heck I am and where I need to go.  I learned patience. I had to be patient with myself mostly, to not move too fast when I started feeling better, and patience with not being able to lead the 90 mph life I was leading.  I learned how incredible and golden my friends & family are, who stepped up without me having to ask.  I can only hope that I am at least half the friend to them as they are to me.  I also learned to enjoy every precious moment with those around me.  Maybe I wouldn't have otherwise spent time with Peek before she was gone.  I learned how to be helped and to be thankful for it, instead of trying to be so independent all the time.  Letting others help, blesses not only the ones they are helping but themselves as well.  Who am I to deny them those blessings?

Have I given up?  No way!  Do I still have goals?  Heck yes!  Will I always be grateful for everything in my life, even the small things?...I sure hope so.