Heartbreak II: This week, we had a vote to either run flatter terrain, or head back to the hills. Our stalwart team decided they wanted another rally up to Heartbreak Hill, so we increased the run by a mile and did 12 miles up to the top of Heartbreak and back. I believe these runs will help- many of the hills felt more runnable than last time. :) That helps balance the ones that weren't :P

We continue to be inspired by the stories of our volunteers and our team mates. It is good to be reminded of why we are running and it makes a great difference in the motivation. -M

Heartbreak Hill

Last week was our first run through Heartbreak. This hill occurs around mile 20 in the race, and I believe it is the placement of this hill that is so problematic for runners. On a 10 mile run it sure felt possible, but stuck at the end of a marathon, who can tell?? This feels a bit like the student who realizes he has to rely on his past lessons to get through a difficult recital- it requires some FAITH. This Saturday is 11 miles and look forward to the warm weather forecasts!

January 2006:

Our team training start was a hilly 9 mile run through Wellesley on the Marathon course- approx miles 15-19.5 and back. The hills continue to be challenging for me, but I hope they continue getting better with each run.

We had two great dedications on that day- one via letter from one of my sponsors who had donated in memory of his aunt. She passed away with lymphoma, but had been a strong support to him and his siblings. His e-mail to me was 'run with joy'. I will try to remember that. The next dedication was from our neighbor, Chris Lynne, whose mother passed away from lymphoma 2 years ago. Chris has been our big support in giving us advice about TNT and fundraising, and we look forward to attending her fundraiser this week.
-M