2009 is in the archives, and a bright, beautiful new year awaits us all in a shiny new package and it’s up to each of us to make the best of it.

Here’s the news!

Got to Burbank, CA on my virtual RunOverToEllen’s on my birthday Dec. 2^nd, running all of the 1,222 ¼ virtual miles in my home town of Missoula, MT.  I never did hear from The Ellen Show or any of Ellen’s staff, even after a multiple months mailing campaign.  But no worries: Her loss, my gain as I had a blast racking up the miles and raising money for Guide Dogs for the Blind along the way.

This year I’ve been so thankful for my chiropractor, Dr. Krieg.  He really got my back aligned and my sciatica cured so I could put in all the running miles.  I ran more miles in a week than I had ever thought I would want to, and enjoyed every step of it.

This summer, I ran in hotter temperatures than I had ever voluntarily chosen to run, by giving myself permission to turn around if I wanted to.  I also learned how to make my running more enjoyable by taking water with me on my runs.  Not only did it keep me hydrated, but it also allowed me to take nutrition with me to eat at my half-way mark.  This one technique alone – hydrating a couple of ounces every mile – helped me to run as many as 50 miles in a week.

Also, this winter I gave myself permission to run in colder weather than I usually enjoy.  Typically this time of the year it is very hard for me to get out and run due to snow on the trail, but the cold temps usually keep me inside as well. This year I gave myself a cut-off temp of 20 degrees F.  It’s still cold, but at 20 my lungs don’t freeze!  But I’ll write more about my winter running in another blog.

In 2010 I plan on finishing my marathon book.  I am also going to be doing some motivational speaking.

T is now “A Better You Coach”  and she can coach you on just about anything to help you achieve your “better you” -  health and wellness, or even help you grow your small business.  Check out her website at: www.ABetterYouCoach.com

I have more to tell you about upcoming events in 2010, so stay tuned to this blog for more great stories and inspiration!  Make it a great week!

How ’bout it?

–Vision Runner

We took a little hiatus, but we’re back!! And it’s just past our one year anniversary of the Runner Insight blog! Happy birthday to my blog!

So before we get to the rest of the marathon story, just wanted to remind you about my fundraising run. I’ve been chugging away, and I’ve done over 950 miles of my 1,222 mile run now. Everyone who has donated by the end of September (www.FirstGiving.com/VisionRunner) and shoots me a tweet on twitter (@RunnerInsight) or an email (t at RunnerInsight.com) with a message stating that they have an iPhone, will be in the running for a free download of the Runkeeper Pro. It’s a fitness activity tracking app for the iPhone 3G/3GS.

We’re probably going to have at least one other fabulous prize this month as we have some merchandise donations from a handful of businesses. So get your donation in, and be prepared for the fabulous prize wagon to pull up to your door!!

Next post: the continuation of my marathon story.

How ’bout it?

-Vision Runner

 ^Click Arrow To Listen 

Do you remember when you were in school and you had to get a hall pass?  Or when you had to have a permission slip to attend the class field trip? Or you had a “Get Out of Jail Free” card?  How did that make you feel?  I know when I had a permission slip I felt in control, empowered.  That tiny scrap of paper carried a lot of weight.

Now we’ve pretty much grown up past the point of permission slips, but imagine writing out your own permission slip, and it reads something like this:

I give myself permission to start “You fill in the blank” today. 

Don’t start with the excuses already. I can’t hear you. (This is a blog…remember? It only seems like a conversation ) 

Now where were we…oh, yeah.

I give myself permission to start “You fill in the blank” today.

It doesn’t matter if it’s something fun like your favorite activity that you haven’t been able to find time for, or an arduous task like cleaning out the garage or clearing ground to start a garden, or a life-altering personal growth experience like getting fit or learning to play the harmonica or reading that inspirational book that your friend recommended. And it really doesn’t matter the reason that you’ve been putting it off.

By giving yourself permission, it allows you to start.  You are able to face down all the excuses you have created in the past, like “I’m never going to be able to do that” or “I don’t have time” or “I might as well not even try because I know I will fail” or “It’s too hard” or “Insert your favorite excuse here.”

The question is not whether you can or can not do whatever; the bottom line is whether you start or don’t. If you continue to choose “don’t”, then the spot you’re in now will be the same exact spot you’ll be in next week and next year and the years after. You still can’t find anything in the garage; you still haven’t leapt into your healthier life; you still don’t know how to play the harmonica; and you’re still eating produce that’s been shipped in from several states away.

The thing is, once you start, all it takes is baby steps. Baby steps make it easy to get some momentum so that you can keep going.  It’s not like you are required to overcome this huge barrier all at once; it’s all about baby steps.  And this baby step builds on that one and continues on, so that they are no longer really baby steps because they’ve all built up on the one that came before it. So you end up having made actual steps towards forward momentum and progress. What if you only went and spent an hour in the garage? Is it going to make a dent in the chaos? Perhaps not, but even if you only end up throwing out one box and two bags of broken junk and filling one box of stuff you don’t use anymore to donate to the local battered women’s shelter or to give away on Freecycle, giving yourself permission to start the task is like lifting your foot off the floor to take that first tiny step. And until you start, you never really know how far you’ll get.

Giving yourself permission is not only about starting. You can also give yourself permission to stop. This summer as it got hotter and I had all these miles to run for my fundraising Run Over To Ellen’s project (if you haven’t donated your dollar yet, what are you doing reading this? Perhaps you’re not sure how to do it. Let me help. Take your mouse hand, slide the mouse until the cursor is over in the sidebar where that green FirstGiving widget is, and then click on the orange Donate button in the bottom corner. Go ahead. I’ll wait for you to come back. Go on, now. I promise we’ll pick up right where we left off. We won’t go on without you. It’ll be okay…;) )

La, la, la

La, la, la

Okay, now . . . Thanks for coming back. As I was saying, this summer the temperatures were getting hotter, and in the past I’ve chosen not to run in the heat. But since I have all these miles to run (1,222 miles for my fundraising run), I figured I should try to run when it’s a little hotter out. Now at first this was kind of a big deal in my mind…’What if it’s too hot?” “What if I hate it?” Well, it occurred to me that I could stop and go home if it was too hot.  I could start out, give it a try, and if it was unbearable I could at any point in time turn around or call T to come get me; that thought made it possible for me to start.  Once I got out there running, I was running. I had my water, and yes it was hot, but it was fine that I was running when it was hot. I had always presumed that it would be dreadful to run in the heat, and I would hate it, so I hadn’t really done it. But since I had my water and the confidence that I could stop if it wasn’t fun, I could start.

Giving yourself permission to stop can eliminate the fear of failure that can hold you back and keep you from starting in the first place. Knowing that you have permission to stop can actually be a precursor to giving yourself permission to start.  If you start out with the knowledge that you can stop at any time, you have taken back the power and control in your life. And most likely, once you’ve started, you’ll end up going all the way and finishing the task because it becomes not as daunting as you first imagined.

Permission slips and baby steps…they go hand in hand. After all it’s all about moving forward and growing one step at a time. 

How ‘bout it? 

-Vision Runner   

Yesterday was the half marathon! This was the first race that
I had to use my white cane. Here’s the videos of my day!

My pre-race update:

…Here’s a little clip of the start of the race, but I don’t think I’m in it.

The Race Clips…running, running and more running!

After the race….replenishing my glycogen stores!! In other words….FOOD!!!

I finished the 13.1 miles in 2:26:03.
Here’s my results:
Vision Runner’s Half Marathon Results

Victory Photo:

How ’bout it?
-Vision Runner

Run Over To Ellen’s Summary After Half Marathon on Sunday:

Start Date: April 20, 2009

Goal Date: Dec 15-18, 2009 (Whenever we can get Ellen Degeneres tickets to a taping of the Ellen tv show before they stop taping for the end of the year break.)

Total Mileage from Montana to the studio for an Ellen tv show taping: 1,222.25

Must Average: 36 miles of running per week or 5.12 miles per day.
Day Number: 84
Mileage Run Today: 13
Mileage Run so far: 592

Mileage To Go To Get There: 630.25

How ’bout it?

-Vision Runner

They also just did a blurb on my fundraising efforts in the July issue of JUST CAUSE magazine which just came out a couple of days ago…here’s the link: I’m on page 65!

http://www.zinio.com/reader.jsp?issue=416088048&o=ext

Below is an interview I did via email for a pets website…. http://blog.k9cuisine.com/ 

I don’t know for sure when they’ll post it, but I figured that I might as well let you, my loyal blog readers, check it out first!

1.   What is your story-how did you get into running for Guide dogs?

I was diagnosed with RP (retinitis pigmentosa) over 12 years ago, and have been slowly losing my vision over the years.  I have also been a runner for 17 years.  Running is my passion, and that was something I didn’t want to give up. In Sept of 2008 I started a blog about being a blind runner.  It’s about overcoming obstacles and envisioning a new reality.  The way I got into running to raise money for Guide Dogs for the Blind was I wanted something to challenge me in my running.  I was healing from a severe case of sciatica this spring, and needed some motivation.  So my partner and I came up with a virtual Run Over to Ellen’s. It’s a 1,222 mile fundraising event that will take me 8 months to complete with the goal of raising $30,000 for the “Guide Dogs for the Blind” organization.  I don’t need the use of a guide dog right now, as I get along okay with my white cane, but there are a lot of blind and low vision people who,  without the use of a guide dog, have lost not only their sight, but their sense of freedom and ability to be independent as well.  I know how important it is for me to be independent, and I wanted to be able to help others have that too.

2.  What is the secret to your success with your running-how have you gotten to where you are today?

I guess the secret to my running, is that I enjoy it so much.  I do things to keep my running fun and new, like this virtual Run Over to Ellen’s fundraising project to raise $30,000 for Guide Dogs for the Blind.  The challenge of running well beyond what I thought I could accomplish in a week, to the thought of actually getting on the Ellen TV show are all motivating to me!

I have always run for enjoyment, and I’m not a competitive runner, however I have competed in several race events over the years, including finishing a marathon, and a half dozen half-marathons, plus other races.  I think all my running throughout the years has gotten me to where I am today, running more miles in a week than I ever thought I would want to, and not only that, but continuing to do it as my vision deteriorates more and more to the point where I have to run with my white cane.

3.  What makes you different?

I guess what makes me different from other runners out there is that I am running with a white cane weaving back and forth across the path in front of me.  Running is supposed to be one of the easiest and simplest of sports, and for most people, it is. But for me, it has become quite a challenge every time I head out the door to go for my run.  I can’t just head out to run wherever my feet take me, I have to plan ahead and run on controlled paths, and I mentally have to be on top of my game, no runner’s haze for me. I can’t afford to zone out while running.  I have to concentrate very hard on what’s around me all the time. 

4.  What is it about dogs that you love?

 Well the best thing about dogs is that they love you absolutely unconditionally.  We should take a lesson from them in that respect. And of course puppies are the cutest thing ever and they just have to make you laugh.

 5.  What is the neatest part about your work?

 Well right now my work is to run!  And I love to run.  But more importantly, I feel that I can actually make a difference in the world.  That is why we set up this fundraising project for “Guide Dogs for the Blind” to be a grassroots sort of thing.  If everyone gives just $1, they too can be a part of making a big difference in the world.  It’s about a lot of people giving a little to make a big difference!

 6.  Tells us more about the charity you’re running for.

 “Guide Dogs for the Blind” is a great charity.  All the services provided by “Guide Dogs for the Blind” to the blind and low-vision recipients are at no cost whether it’s the dog or the guide dog training or alumni services or retirement of the guide dog…There is no charge to the recipient.  It costs quite a bit to raise and train a dog to become a guide dog, but the service that they provide is invaluable to the individual who receives one.

 7.  What are your future plans related to helping dogs?

 I don’t know at this point, I’m still in the middle of this project…Maybe I’ll do a Run Over to Oprah’s! LOL

 8.  How can people find out more about you and the organization?

 Check us out at www.RunOverToEllens.com , that’s my fundraising project website. My blog is at www.RunnerInsight.com and the donations page is at www.FirstGiving.com/VisionRunner

9.  Tell us a little about you!

I’m 45 years old and I live in western Montana where I was born and raised.  I had 33 years of good eyesight, but over the past 12 ½ years I have been losing my vision to RP, a genetic eye disease.   But that hasn’t kept me from doing what I love to do, and that’s run.  I did have to give up driving, riding my bike, and various other activities that I enjoyed, but I was determined not to have to give up on my running. 

I have a blog over at RunnerInsight where I am updating with new posts three times a week, mostly about being a blind runner. I try to keep it inspiring and motivational, because even though we may not all have a physical obstacle, we all have some kind of obstacle or barrier or issue that we need to face in life. My strong belief is that it’s not what happens to you that matters, but what you do with it that defines your success in life. I am also in the process of creating a video workshop on How to Make Running More Enjoyable.  So watch for that, it should be available before the end of the year, if not sooner.

Couple bits of news for you today.

First off, on Thursday (tomorrow) we’re doing a 24-hour Twitter event for our fundraising project for the “Guide Dogs for the Blind” organization. So if you’re on Twitter, we’re going to tweet and re-tweet all day long to get everyone to donate at least $1 in the name of their pet (or themselves) to Guide Dogs for the Blind.  So be on the lookout for that. Be sure to re-tweet to all your friends and followers to get them to donate if they haven’t yet! You can follow me, my Twitter id is @RunnerInsight

And secondly:

Hey the Missoula Marathon is almost here again!  I’m running in the half marathon this year.  I thought about doing the full marathon, but after coming off my back injury this winter, I just didn’t feel I had the proper time to prepare for a full 26.2 mile race. 

Although I have been running an average of 50 miles a week since April for my 1,222.25 mile virtual run over to the Ellen tv show in Burbank, most of the runs have been in the 8 to 13 mile range.  I did do a 16 mile run the other week, but I really had not planned on running that far; we just missed the turn-around point and when I checked the time, we had gone 8 miles one way, so we turned around. But it made for an intensely long run: one that took me several days to recover from.  So I have tapered off my mileage this week to give my body the proper rest it needs to run a good 13.1 mile half-marathon race on Sunday.

This year I will be taking along my white cane.  In previous race events I have relied on fellow runners to pace me, but last year there were a handful of places along the route that I felt my white cane could have come in handy. For example, coming over McClay’s bridge, the sun just hit me right in the eyes and I couldn’t see a thing, stopping me dead in my tracks! 

I’m not too concerned with my time, as I know my vision loss has slowed me down considerably over the years.  I’m just excited to be a part of such a great day…and of course looking forward to all the wonderful goodies at the finish line!

How ’bout it?

-Vision Runner

^Click Arrow To Listen

If you’ve donated and been following the video blog daily updates on my Run Over To Ellen’s fundraising project, you know that I’ve been dealing with a bunch of heavy equipment and construction machinery and closed roads on my running path this past month. Well, now the construction project has been completed, and my running trail has open and easy access again.

I wanted to let the crew know how much I appreciated everything they did to help me out this past month, so I wrote a letter to the Editor of our local newspaper, and am also mailing a copy to the construction company that they work for.

Here’s the letter to the Editor that I sent this week:

 Editor:

I just wanted to give a big shout out to the crew at Jensen Construction Co. for being so helpful and kind to me during the road work out on South Ave. the past few weeks.

I’m legally blind, and I’d just started my virtual Run Over To Ellen’s (www.RunOverToEllens.com ) 1,222.25 mile fundraising run for Guide Dogs for the Blind.  (See Missoulian article: Wednesday June 3, 2009.) Since my vision is limited, I have been running on South Ave. as it’s a controlled path that is easy for me to navigate with my white cane. 

When I was told that South Ave. was going to be closed, I became concerned.  How was I going to get the mileage in that I needed each week to meet my goal? So not knowing what to expect, I ventured out the first day construction was to begin. With my white cane in hand and running clothes on, I made my way slowly and cautiously to the “Sidewalk Closed” sign.  After waiting less than a minute, one of the workers approached me.  I explained to him about my dilemma and he was more than willing to accommodate me.  He put his elbow out, and escorted me around the enormous construction equipment and mounds of gravel until we were on smooth sidewalk again. 

He told me it was no problem, just wait for one of them each day, and they would be glad to help me around.

So for this past month, that’s just what I did.  I know Brad helped me several times, and Tom a few times. And while I can’t remember the names of all the other great folks that served as my eyes for me, I really want them ALL to know how much I sincerely appreciate their kindness and willingness to help me run my 36 miles a week on the path I can navigate.

I’m sure that construction crews don’t get enough recognition for a job well done, but in this case, it goes well beyond an “Atta boy” and “Job well-done”. You folks at Jensen on the South Avenue crew all made what could have been a major setback for me, a huge success! So a monstrously huge Thanks!

How ’bout it?

- Vision Runner 

 www.RunOverToEllens.com

www.RunnerInsight.com

www.FirstGiving.com/VisionRunner

P.S. If you donated and can’t find (should be in the FirstGiving email response you got when you donated) or remember the private access link to follow the daily video blog updates, email us at admin at RunnerInsight dot com and we’ll be happy to shoot you the access website link again.

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On Thursday I was interviewed by Dr. Andrew Shatte’.  He is on the faculty at the University of Arizona and is currently working on a book about people who have overcome adversities.  He’s interviewed lots of people who have been handed some sort of “slapdown” by life (his term). He was intrigued by my slapdown story, and we had an insightful and somewhat introspective conversation.  He asked me a lot of questions in reference to my reaction and the subsequent acceptance of my life with the eye disease RP (Retinitis Pigmentosa). 

But there was one question in particular that Andrew asked me, that I had a hard time articulating an answer for. It was “Did faith or spirituality play a part in how you handled your “slapdown”?”  I told him yes, it most certainly had, but I felt my answer was inadequate in expressing how much it truly has helped me to not allow myself to be limited by my vision constraints.  Even though I’m legally blind, and I do have to deal with that every day, I don’t define myself that way or see myself as “broken” or “limited”.

I’m constantly aware that I’m part of something much bigger than just myself.  It would be nearly impossible to continue on the journey that I’m on if I had chosen to live as a victim.  There’s an inner knowledge that we are all connected, and that gives me hope and a sense of security.  And it’s not just the hope that I will someday see again, but the knowledge that what we do here in this lifetime counts. It matters, and we are here for a reason. 

That reason may not be fully revealed to us until we are no longer a part of this physical world, but it doesn’t matter whether it’s made clear or not. I have the unshakeable faith that what I’m doing at this very moment in time is exactly what I’m supposed to be doing. 

There was no way for me to know what my life was going to bring me.  No way to know that it would take going blind for me to even begin to understand what being of service to others is all about. I’m absolutely confident that had I been living my life without this particular challenge, I would not be working on my current 1,222.25 mile fundraising run in an effort to raise $30,000 for Guide Dogs for the Blind, or have even considered running to the Ellen TV Show! 

I could have looked at my “Slapdown” through the eyes of a victim, but at the time, I chose this road, not because I’m more evolved or smarter, but because it was the only road I knew. And that journey would allow me to eventually end up where I am today.

I do have faith in the Universe and its infinite wisdom. Look where it’s brought me so far!! I live a beautiful and peaceful and contented life that is only getting better literally every single day.

 How ’bout it?

 - Vision Runner

P.S. If you’re getting value out of this blog, you can do me a favor by linking to us and mentioning my Run Over To Ellen’s fundraising project to friends and co-workers.  Here’s the link information for this article:
Title: My Slapdown

URL: http://runnerinsight.com/2009/06/22/my-slapdown/ 

P.S.S. Here’s an informational website all about guide dogs…www.Guide-Dogs.info

They say “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” And I buy that…because will can come in the form of faith or of passion or both, but it all molds your determination.

-Vision Runner

P.S. If you’re getting value out of this blog, you can do me a favor by linking to us and mentioning my Run Over To Ellen’s fundraising project to friends and co-workers.  Here’s the link information for this article:
Title: Keep On Keeping On

URL: http://runnerinsight.com/2009/06/15/keep-on-keeping-on

Technorati tags: Ellen TV show Run Over To Ellen’s marathon blind runner blind and low vision Vision Runner Guide Dogs for the Blind

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The Day Before My Marathon – The Marathon Expo

So my marathon day 2007 was drawing near. I had put in all the hard work and dedication required in my six to seven month long marathon training program in preparation for my first marathon.  I was very excited and a bit nervous about the big day the next day.

One thing I had been looking forward to was attending the Marathon Expo.  It really turned out to be a great experience.  Not only was it fun, but it helped me to put all of my marathon training program into perspective: I was part of something far bigger than just myself.  For the most part, I had been training alone. It didn’t really feel like I was a part of something so massive until I went to the Expo. Seeing all the people at the Marathon Expo really got me hyped up…I was one of them too, I was…a marathoner!  This Expo was for me! Kind of a cool and eye-opening revelation for me.

There were all sorts of vendor booths set up at Caras Park, a beautiful park right downtown by the river.  And let me tell you, it was hot out!  We had been having record- breaking heat for the past few weeks, and the forecast for race day was for more of the same.  But the Expo was set up under the bridge, so we were mostly in the shade. 

I stood in line to get my race packet where I would find all sorts of goodies, including my race number.  Race packets are great.  I love to see what little treats are in them.  There was a pair of running socks from the Runner’s Edge, our local running store that I love to pieces! (Hi!)  There were a handful of nutritional snacks and a blister kit, along with coupons for some free stuff from different merchants around town.

Once I had my race number, I was free to wander around the Expo.  As you might imagine, I was drawn to the running clothing  And I found a nice RED sleeveless Hind running shirt.  I also bought a Missoula Marathon tank top.  Then I hit pay dirt!  A Missoula Marathon running hat!!  This was great.  It did however leave me in a quandary about my running outfit. The Missoula Marathon hat was grey. I had planned on wearing my red Runner’s Edge hat. So of course, that evening I had to try on my race day outfit and the two different hats.  In the end I decided to go with the red hat as planned. 

After wandering around the Expo, the last stop we made before heading out was to buy some cool, delicious Flathead cherries.  They are the best!  Big dark red jewels of pure delight!  They hit the spot.  A refreshing treat on a very hot 90 degree day!

The Expo served to fuel my excitement and calm my nerves…I realized that I really wasn’t alone in this 6 month long trek ending with the final 26.2 mile portion of my journey.

And the next day it would all come together…or not.

How ’bout it? 

-Vision Runner

P.S. I don’t want to sound like a broken record, but if you haven’t made your $1 donation yet, you’ll want to do so today. Because everyone who donates through today (Friday June 12) will be put into the drawing for the free pair of Runner’s Edge running socks! So get your donation in today!! Hurry, hurry! Just go to www.FirstGiving.com/VisionRunner or click on the Donate button on the green and purple FirstGiving widget in the sidebar.  You can get the details on  my 1,222.25 mile Run Over To Ellen’s (Ellen TV Show) fundraising project by clicking here: www.RunOverToEllens.com   Thanks!!

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Preparation For Marathon Race Day – Forget the Miles: It’s All About the Running Clothing! Really!

As the marathon day drew near, I was well into my marathon training program, and as long as I stayed healthy, there was no question – I was going to run this marathon! 

So before the cut-off date when the price to register went up, I registered for the marathon.  Now I was committed – no backing out – not that I would have, I was excited, and the excitement just kept building as I started planning what to wear for the big race.

Of course this monumental event called for a new outfit.  I knew I wanted to wear red for sure as I like red, plus there’s the psychological edge it gives to wear a fast color. But I was having trouble finding just the right pair of red shorts. It was hot, Hot, HOT in Montana that summer, and I wanted a stratus-cut for lots of ventilation.

I looked online, but was disappointed with the choices, so one afternoon I walked down to the Runner’s Edge, our local running store, and found just what I had been so desperately searching for: a pair of red Hind stratus-cut shorts.  Albeit in men’s, but that didn’t matter, as they had a size small. 

So now that I had the running shorts, I needed the right running shirt to go with it.  I found a nice blue one and I was set. I had my WrightSocks ready, and a new outfit in hand: I was stoked.

I didn’t wear my new clothes ahead of the race day, except for a short trial run.  Some runners run their long marathon training runs in the clothes they will run in on race day, so there will be no surprises as to how the garments will feel and perform – to ensure there are no unexpected seams rubbing the wrong way, etc.  But me, I bathe in the rush of new running clothes, so just a short, quick test-drive of my new race day running outfit was fine. Oh and I also got a new running hat…red, from the Runner’s Edge, too. Now I was set.

The forecast was calling for more hot weather and it ended up being one of our hottest summers on record. I thought we could find some cool neck wraps. These things are great.  We had used them the summer before, and so I knew that by soaking them in water and then putting them in the refrigerator, they get nice and cool and the refreshing coolness lasts quite a while. 

So off we went in search of neck wraps.  We found some at Wal-Mart, but when we soaked them in water they turned slimy!  Yuck!  I couldn’t wear that!  So we returned those.  We eventually found some at a sports warehouse that didn’t turn slimy. I wanted about three so that T could meet me on the road and change them out for me during the race. 

My other quandary was finding a running pocket.  I had stuff I wanted to take with me on the long run, but the little pocket in my shorts would not be big enough to hold my mints, ChapStick, energy beans, and extra battery if I decided to take my MP3 player.

I didn’t want a fanny pack as I didn’t want to deal with the bouncing of a fanny pack on my waist for 26.2 miles. So I looked in all the stores, but all I could find were cell phone cases.  I bought several of them hoping I would find the right fit, but none were what I was looking for. I even looked online, but no luck.  So I settled for a carrier a little bit larger then a cell phone case.  It was a bit bulky, but it held all the stuff I wanted to take, so it would have to do.

A year later I found the perfect running pocket by Amphipod. It was in Illinois while visiting family – right there in a local running store! I can’t seem to find it available anymore, so I’m a little afraid that they may have stopped making them.

Another last-minute buy was a pair of wrist sweat bands.  Knowing race day was going to be extremely hot, having the wrist bands would be vital to keeping sweat out of my eyes. And I was right; my hat could not keep all the sweat from running down my face as it ended up being over 90 degrees F that day!  So I got wristbands in both light blue and red, not sure which would coordinate better with my running outfit. 

Okay now you might be thinking that I was spending way too much time on what I was going to wear, more then any sane person would. But if you’ve been following my blog, you know how much I love running clothing. And for me, it’s all a part of the excitement and for sure, choosing the best running outfit is a huge motivation factor, as well.

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Just to update you on my RunOverToEllens.com 1,222.25 mile Fundraising Run, I’m over 25% of the way to Burbank, California. We’re having a drawing for anyone who’s donated at least $1 by Friday June 12. The winner will receive a free pair of Runner’s Edge running socks. Don’t fret if you’re not a runner, they work for walking or sitting, too.   So get your donations in by Friday! Just go to the secure website at www.FirstGiving.com/VisionRunner . Or you can click on the FirstGiving widget in the sidebar. Thanks a lot!

How ’bout it?

-Vision Runner

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I’ve always been one to look at the glass as half full, that is unless it’s filled with cod liver oil, and then I’m afraid the glass is more than half full! 

All my life I have been an optimist – looking for the good in things. And even when the situation doesn’t turn out the way I want, later I can see how it was all for the best.  It’s a choice we get to make every day: whether to be in a good place in our lives or a bad place.

For example when I was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) in 1997, I went through a period of grieving for the loss of my vision, but after a while my grieving no longer served me and my generally optimistic self took over again. I remembered that staying positive was a choice.

In the beginning, it was sometimes a minute by minute choice – but a choice nonetheless!

Living with the loss of my eyesight has brought on many challenges, some easy to deal with and some not so much: from making sure I’m color-coordinated easily with the help of my partner and a little organization, to running a full marathon – which took a lot of effort and planning.

But as each new challenge comes along, I see that it’s all about overcoming the obstacle -my blindness – and envisioning a new reality for myself. And the reality I choose for myself is that one day I will have my eyesight back! 

So by keeping a positive attitude and focusing on what it is I want, I live each day with the knowledge that at any moment I could see again!

One of the most positive things that has come out of my blindness is my website.  RunnerInsight.com is a website dedicated to my mission in life: overcoming obstacles and envisioning a new reality – and not just for myself…everyone has challenges to overcome, and barriers to break through to create their more ideal life.

To promote my website and do something challenging and fun while raising money for a great cause, I started a new project: A Virtual Run Over To Ellen’s - Running 1,222.25 miles from my home in Montana to the Warner Brother’s Studios in Burbank CA to the Ellen TV Show.  This means I’ll be running an average of 36 miles a week for 34 weeks here in my hometown.

The challenge: to run 36 miles a week for 34 weeks!  I had just come off a back injury that kept me from running for over two months, and I was having a hard time breaking through that mental barrier at the 3 to 4 mile mark. So needless to say, this became a big challenge for me and since starting 7 weeks ago, I have moved well beyond my comfort zone into arenas I could never have imagined.

The fun part…Well, so far that’s been getting interviewed by the local media, and ultimately the adventure of it all will lead to me getting on the Ellen TV Show!  Or Ellen Degeneres tickets to a taping of the show. 

The inspiring part…That would be being able to do just a little good in the world, by raising $30,000 for Guide Dogs for the Blind.  That’s something I would have never attempted while I had my eyesight. I couldn’t have imagined trying to start this grassroots effort to get 30,000 people to each donate $1.00 to do a tremendously good thing. And if you haven’t donated your $1 yet, just click on the green and purple FirstGiving widget in the sidebar to donate.

Anyway, my point is that my vision problems made it impossible for me to stay in my comfort zone, and forced me onto a path that allowed me to think outside my comfort zone…at the same time doing some good in the world. 

And all of this gives me a reason to keep running, even when it’s difficult for me to see the trail.  I’m more determined than ever to overcome my obstacles and breaking through the barriers my vision loss has put up. 

So no matter what you are struggling with right now, you too can decide to make the changes necessary.  Go deep inside yourself and make the choice to envision a new reality for yourself and start on the path to a new life where you are the star of your own show! (…and the crowd goes WILD! They Start POURING Out of The Stands!!! )  Why Not?

How ‘bout it?

-Vision Runner

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When Mary offered to create a poem to promote my Run Over To Ellen’s Fundraising Project, I honestly had no idea what to expect…so imagine my surprise when we got this incredibly perceptive portrait of the project and myself…

Thank you so much, Mary! Words can’t express how special this is. I think T said it best: “Wow!”

A blind runner creating a new vision for life

Had an incredible vision one day

To push herself out of her own comfort zone

While doing great good along the way.

Her name’s Vision Runner and although eyesight is lost

Her vision is clear as can be

Guide Dogs for the Blind, her passionate cause

Run over to Ellen’s – yes be on TV.

Thirty thousand the goal to help those in need

For safety, independence and trust

One thousand two hundred twenty two miles, the distance she’ll run

Your financial support is a must.

Thirty six miles each week she’ll run with white cane

Her courage gives goosebumps to all

Despite the terrain, the weather, fatigue

She knows she is answering the call.

A website has she to inspire and share

The challenges with RP she must face

but she knows The Secret to creating her life

With humor, positivity and grace.

So join in the fun you’ll be thrilled that you did

And come to Burbank in December to cheer

An incredible woman who despite all the odds

Knows absolutely no limits or fear.

- Mary McManus

www.newworldgreetings.com

We only need 30,000 people to donate $1 each so click here to donate your $1 and then forward it on to everyone you know….This is one of those projects where we each can contribute a little and together do a World of Good!

How ’bout it?

-Vision Runner

< ><–>

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Hic-ups…one of those pointless, annoying spasms that we all get to suffer from at some point in time…usually when it’s most inappropriate and embarrassing, like at a funeral or when your boss is raking your whole team over the coals in the main conference room. And don’t you hate it when you can tell the folks sitting next to you are annoyed and wish you would stop, while at the same time they’re kind-of relieved that it’s you and not them drawing unwanted attention to themselves.

Over the years I have used several different tricks to get rid of the hic-ups.  When I worked at the airport and would get the hic-ups, I would simply walk over to the lounge and ask the bartender for a shot of bitters and lime.  Boy that stuff tasted awful, but it sure did the trick.  But what was I supposed to do when I wasn’t near a bar? 

Well a friend told me about this technique.  Get a glass of water.  Put it on the floor in front of you.  Then bend over and with your head between your knees take a sip of water.  Repeat several times.  A warning though: you must do this before your hic-ups go on too long.  I don’t know why, but if you can catch it right away, this usually works.

The simplest and most amazing remedy I have ever used was taught to me by T, who learned it in junior high school from her science teacher.  Are you ready?

When you have the hic-ups, close your eyes then have someone else (preferably someone you trust) place their pointer finger gently on one eyelid in the center, and their immediately adjacent long finger on the other eyelid, like they’re holding the “peace” sign on your eyelids, but not touching any other part of their hand to your face.  The gentle pressure should be steady and consistent, but not hard.  Hold like that for 30 seconds, or a bit longer. I’ve never been able to make it work by doing it on myself, but with a partner doing it, this amazing technique works about 90% of the time for me. I’m not sure exactly why it works, but I suspect that there is some nerve or something behind your eyeball, and the gentle pressure placed on your eyelid must… I don’t know…maybe calm or relax the nerve somehow?

 Whatever makes it work, you’ll want to give it a try next time you are plagued with the dreaded hic-ups! It’s simple, it’s quick and very effective. Can’t you just picture it? Asking your boss to pause for a moment during his tirade while you have your co-worker place their fingers on your eyelids to alleviate your hic-ups for you? 

How ‘bout it?

-Vision Runner   

P.S. Just a reminder: As a part of my 1,222.25 mile Run Over To Ellen’s Fundraising Project, everyone who has donated $1 or more by Sunday May 24th will be in a donors drawing for a special, limited edition Vision Runner “Dare To Envision A New Reality” retractable ballpoint pen. Less than 10 in existence! Sure to be a collector’s item…We only need 30,000 people to donate $1 each for Guide Dogs for the Blind…so get your donations in today. You can make miracles!! $1 at a time! Click here: Run Over To Ellen’s Fundraising Project

My virtual Run Over To Ellen’s is a fundraising run, and we’re raising $30,000 for Guide Dogs for the Blind. We only need 30,000 people to donate $1 (or more) – have you donated your $1 yet? You can click on the green FirstGiving widget in the sidebar or go to www.FirstGiving.com/VisionRunner Do it now and you’ll have access to all the special donors only benefits…and special giveaways! Everyone who donates by the end of this week is in the drawing for a special limited edition Vision Runner -”Dare to Envision a New Reality” pen. Motivation right at your fingertips! So hurry to www.FirstGiving.com/VisionRunner and donate now.

For more info on the project…check out www.RunOverToEllens.com

Below I share some thoughts about my first month of running and fundraising.

After the first month of my virtual Run Over To Ellen’s, I’m almost to the “B” pin on the map which is Red Rock, MT and the “C” pin is Lima, MT. We’ve raised $149 dollars so far for Guide Dogs for the Blind, and we’ve been on the local news. Still a long ways to go on all fronts, but I’m up for it…so let’s run!


View Larger Map

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FYI Everyone: You’re going to want to donate your $1 if you haven’t done it yet…special giveaways announced at the end of this post!! Go to www.FirstGiving.com/VisionRunner to get your donation in for Guide Dogs for the Blind and be entered into the special giveaways that will be happening for donors only!!! As you know, we only need 30,000 people to donate $1 each. There really is a power of synergy at the grassroots level. Every one of you donating $1 and telling everyone you know can do miraculous things in the world…Let the miracles begin!!

And now, on to your regularly scheduled content!!

Chocolate Milk

Imagine you have just run 8 miles: you’re hot and sweaty and the thought of eating a high carb and protein meal does not interest you in the least.  In fact it’s the last thing on your mind. A shower yes, but eating no! 

But you know that eating within the first 30 minutes after a hard workout is essential to start the recovery process, and for replenishing your glycogen stores. In fact, the faster you get nutrition into your body, the faster and more completely you will recover from your run.

Now imagine a cold frosty glass of chocolate milk. Yep! Chocolate milk!  This quick and delicious drink can start the recovery process minutes after you finish a run or workout.  Not only does it have the carbs you need, but it has the protein as well: both in one easy-to-tolerate glass of chocolate milk. And when I put it in a chilled glass, it gets frosty almost like a milkshake!! Mmmm, mmmmm.

But remember: it’s just the first course in your recovery meal.  Make sure you follow it up with a more substantial meal, such as a turkey sandwich or other high carb and protein combo within the next hour.  And yes, that part can wait until after your shower!

How ’bout it?

-Vision Runner

P.S. Don’t forget to donate your $1.00 at www.FirstGiving.com/VisionRunner if you haven’t donated yet. All donors from the beginning through (Sunday) the end of this fifth week of my 1,222.25 Virtual Run Over To Ellen’s Fundraising Project will be in the drawing to win a special limited edition Vision Runner ink pen…It says “Dare To Envision A New Reality.” How’s that for daily motivation and inspiration right there at your fingertips?!! And we had less than 10 made up, so they are very rare…and soon to be a collector’s item, I’m sure!! Again, special giveaways and promotions and private access to the daily video updates and the donors only area is available to everyone who’s donated $1 or more!! So take action now and click on this link right here:  Vision Runner’s Run Over To Ellen’s Fundraising Project

Thanks!

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I’m really loving being able to run again after my triumph over sciatica this winter. And now that the weather is stutteringly wandering towards spring, so much the better! 

I’m doing much better, back to better than normal in fact, and I’m sure, if you’ve been following my progress, you know about my new fundraising project, where I’m running 1,222.25 miles from Montana to the Warner Brothers Studios in Burbank California on a virtual Run Over To Ellen’s. In order to accomplish my mileage goal, I’m going to have to average 36 miles a week for the rest of the year.  

As far as my fundraising goal, we only need 30,000 people to donate $1.00 each to raise money for Guide Dogs for the Blind. So if you haven’t donated yet, just click on the FirstGiving fundraising box in the right hand sidebar, or go to www.FirstGiving.com/VisionRunner. Once you donate at least $1.00, you’ll have access to our private Donors Only page where all sorts of special secret surprises await…

Having healed nicely, one recent afternoon, as it commonly occurs, my mom met me for a walk as I was finishing up my run.  We ended up back at her place, where I said goodbye and then ran the few blocks over to the busy intersection where I would cross to get to my favorite Starbucks on the corner. 

The light turned and I ran across the street at a very slow and easy pace.  I got onto the short section of sidewalk that would take me over to Starbucks. I’m not sure what I was thinking about … maybe it was how much I was going to enjoy my favorite item on the Starbucks menu, a Grande Americano, or how good it felt to be healed up and not to have tight calf muscles after my run. 

I don’t know, but all of a sudden my foot went off the sidewalk and I just knew I was going to fall and I saw it unfolding in slow motion: like time slowed down.  

I put my right hand out to brace the fall, but then I did something amazing.  My shoulder tucked under and I just went with the fall, rolling all the way back up onto my feet, and not missing a step! 

In amazement, I felt for my cell phone and mp3 player and safety flasher lights…yup all still there!  I walked into Starbucks still stunned at my highly uncharacteristic acrobatic move. 

Thinking that one of the workers at Starbucks must have seen it, and they all know me, I asked. But, nope not one witness to my spectacular feat of athleticism. . .

Oh well, that’s how things roll sometimes…even me!

Maybe it’s my new alignment??? 

How ‘bout it?

-Vision Runner

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To stay motivated for any goal, you absolutely must have a big enough “Why”: the reason that makes you keep going when you don’t want to and it’s easier to quit. That big enough “Why” is the key. However, sometimes finding your big enough “Why” is the stumbling block when setting a goal.

I personally have found myself using lots of different “Whys” to keep myself motivated and moving forward. Some of them are just short-term “Whys”, that help for a day or a week or two or three, and some of them are long-term “Whys”. For any goal, the size of the “Why” has to be equal to or greater than the size and importance of the goal.

I’ve been a runner for just over 17 years now, but when I was first starting out, I needed the motivation of my friend Dana to keep me going.  I would have given up and would not be a runner today if not for Dana running alongside me with her enthusiastic energy and love of running.  My “Why” was just keeping up with Dana, and that was a big enough “Why” at the time. Eventually her passion for the sport took root in me, and I have since found my own pace, and haven’t stopped running yet.

Once Dana moved away I was left to run by myself. Not necessarily a bad thing though, as running alone allows me to re-connect with my self and center my thoughts. And even though I have a deep passion when it comes to my running, there are times when I do need some strong motivation to get my butt out of bed and pull my running shoes on. So here are some tips and techniques I’ve used over the years to make a big enough “Why” for myself. I have relied on these tricks to stay motivated and keep my running fresh and fun.

I used to be able to keep myself motivated by running a new trail or area of town.  Seeking out new running paths and exploring streets and trails kept my running new and exciting.  I found some beautiful and magical spots by simply running in a new place.

But since my diagnosis with Retinitis Pigmentosa in 1997, my eyesight has been slowly declining over the years.  This makes it almost impossible for me to run new trails anymore.  In fact for safety reasons I pretty much only run on controlled paths that I can navigate with my white cane and limited vision.  And it definitely gets boring sometimes running the same path every single time I put on my running shoes. 

So now I am using these other tricks to keep me motivated.

One sure-fire way to get me out of bed to go running is new running clothes.  A new pair of running shorts or shirt can keep me going for weeks, but soon the novelty wears off.  I could buy more running clothes, but I’m running out of room in my closet and drawers!  I have more running clothes than one human should be allowed!  But hey, that certainly won’t stop me from picking up just one more running shirt…or two, or three…  :) Did I mention how much I love running clothes? It’s my not-so-secret addiction.

Another motivational tool I use is new songs on my mp3 player.  When I load up my mp3 player with a new playlist, my “Why” is that I honestly can’t wait to get out and run so I can listen to all the new high energy songs.  This can last quite a while as well, as I only allow myself to listen to my running music while running. In a similar vein, if I have a good book to listen to, that can keep me hitting the pavement for up to a couple of weeks. But the problem is that all of these strategies last only a few weeks at best. And it’s easy enough to load new running music or books onto the mp3 player, but it’s not really a big enough “Why” for the really long-term.

So for me, one of the best motivational techniques I have ever used is training for an event or a particular goal. At one point a few years back, I was going through some new and wonderful changes in my life and my running days were pretty much non-existent.  But after about 6 months I was really feeling the void in my life that only running could fill, so I made the decision to train for BloomsDay: a very big race held each spring in Spokane, Washington.  There would be over 40,000 runners and walkers participating in this race.  By having a goal race to train for, I was giving myself the “Why” I needed to stay totally motivated to get out and run.  I even trained on hills even though I hate running hills, as I knew there was the dreaded “DoomsDay Hill” at the end of this 7 plus mile run. So having a looming event on the schedule is a great “Why.”

After BloomsDay, I kept training for small races here and there, but it was not until I decided to run in my first full marathon, that I learned the true meaning of dedicated and perpetual motivation.  I knew that I would have to be unwavering in my marathon training program for 6 long and arduous months if I was going to pull off the training schedule and ultimate running of a full marathon and live to tell about it. Of course, “living through it” that was my big enough “Why” for that one.

So for 6 months I told as many people as I could that I was going to run a marathon.  Their supportive reaction and amazement that a blind runner was going to run a marathon fueled me on.

My friends and family were another great source of motivation, as they each helped me however they could. My friend Vickie rode her bike with me on my long marathon training runs and our conversation and laughter was so much fun. Some runners use running clubs to keep them motivated, but with my work schedule I was not able to take advantage of them. But my partner and I attended workshops put on by the marathon organizers.

After all the miles of my marathon training program and ultimately running the marathon, I was tired from training so long and hard. It took some recovery time, but soon I was out there running again and doing a fairly good job of staying dedicated to it.

At the beginning of this year 2009, I got flattened with lower right back pain. At one point I sneezed, and I was down right now, rolling on the floor like a beach ball. The diagnosis came back that I had sciatica down my right back and leg.  It was impossible for me to run for over 2 months!  Once I was given the okay by my chiropractor to run again, it was slow going, as the sciatica was still hampering me somewhat.  But soon I was plugging along and eventually my lower right back pain was all healed up, and I was moving normally. 

Even though my back injury was healed, and I wasn’t having the lower right back pain anymore, I was having trouble getting past the 3 mile mark on my runs.  Before my back injury I had been running 6 to 8 miles at a time, easily and comfortably, so it bothered me that I’d get to 3 miles and be wiped out, even though I shouldn’t have been.

So in order to challenge myself, get myself motivated to break through that 3 mile barrier and push my comfort zone, I decided to do a virtual Run Over To Ellen’s: to the Ellen TV show in Burbank, CA.  This 1,222 and a ¼ mile run from my home in Montana to the Warner Brothers Studios in Burbank will take 34 weeks running an average of 36 miles a week!  Before my lower right back pain and the sciatica issue, I was running about 18 to 24 miles a week. 

But not only am I doing this virtual Run Over To Ellen’s in the hopes of getting Ellen Degeneres tickets to see a taping of the Ellen TV show, I’m fundraising for Guide Dogs For the Blind at the same time.  My quest is to raise $30,000 for them between now and the end of the year.

So this Run Over To Ellen’s fundraising project will keep me motivated and running for 8 months!  And by doing a daily video update for the special access Donors Only page, I am determined to do the mileage.

So I think I have found my big enough “Why”…for this year anyway! 

How ‘bout it?

-Vision Runner  

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This first paragraph here is basically a PSA for you. First off, Mother’s Day is just around the corner…and if you’re stuck for a gift suggestion and your mother likes to walk or run, or hike or bike or jog, go over to the right hand sidebar, and  get your free ebook “Gifts For Runners – More Than 50 Unique and Creative Gifts for the Runner in Your Life.” It’s got tons of great ideas, not just for runners but for anyone who enjoys walking, biking, hiking, etc. And Father’s Day is coming, too. So go get it…it’s free. Right now…what are you still reading this for…you should be over there under the FirstGiving Donate Box———>

This second paragraph here is to remind you that I’m now starting the third week of my 1,222.25 mile Run Over To Ellen’s on a quest to raise $30,000 for Guide Dogs for the Blind. So if you haven’t donated your $1.00 yet, why not click on the Donate button on the FirstGiving box in the sidebar and do that now…while it’s on your mind…I know it’s on your mind…because I’m putting it there right about now     Anyway, once you donate at least $1.00 you get special access to the private website set up for donors only, where we update you daily on our progress and post announcements and hold special VIP giveaways for donors. I know you can handle a $1.00 donation…so go for it. Over there ———>

And now, back to your regularly scheduled content…. 

Breaking Through Barriers…Or Not

Once I started running again after my back injury, I got stuck at about 3 miles when I’d go for my runs.  Don’t get me wrong…3 miles was really good considering I was out of commission with lower right back pain and sciatica for over 2 months. 

But I knew that what was happening to me had nothing to do with my physical ability to run longer or the lower right back pain or even my diminishing vision.  I had simply hit a wall.  Albeit a mental wall, but a very real wall to me, nonetheless.  I knew that I was now capable of running longer, but my mind was playing games with my body, telling me I was too tired to go any further and that I needed to take it easy on myself.

So after some consideration, I decided to call the Discovering Wellness Coaching Program that is provided free of charge to clients of my chiropractor’s office.

I knew I needed some gentle nudging, and that’s exactly what I got when I spoke with Rodrigo the Wellness Coach. No Biggest Loser show Jillian-style rants for me…as much as you’ve got to respect Jillian and what she’s accomplished on the Biggest Loser TV show, I just don’t respond well to that. I love Jillian, but of the Biggest Loser trainers, I would definitely perform better with Bob…Anyway, back to the point…Rodrigo’s immediate and simple suggestion was that maybe I could run 5 extra minutes 3 times a week. 

Well yeah…I could do that. 

We also discussed my diet and decided I was not eating enough carbs, and this would account for my low energy.  So we upped my carb intake too.  Along with some other suggestions and small goals, I was set, and Rodrigo would call and check in with me same time next week.

When I hung up the phone after talking with my coach, T looked at me and said, “I’m pretty sure I told you all those things, too.” 

Of course she did, and she was right, but sometimes I think we just have to be hit over the head with the same information multiple times before it finally sinks in! There’s also the added authority that sometimes exists when information comes from an outside source.

So the next day I started out my run with the intention of going 5 extra minutes.  When I got to the place on the trail where I had been stopping to turn around, I simply stepped around the wall in my mind that had been blocking my progress.  You see the wall wasn’t very big at all; in fact, it was quite small. I had just made it big in my mind. 

But once I moved around it, I was free.  I ran an extra mile.  About 10 more minutes!  It felt great.  I could have kept going, but I also knew I needed to be smart and not increase my mileage too fast at the risk of injuring myself. 

So what mental barrier have you thrown up to block your forward progress? 

Sometimes it just takes a little outside coaching and encouragement to help you realize that you don’t always have to expend all that energy trying to break through the wall.  You can just find another way around it. That’s what I did.   

How ‘bout it?

-Vision Runner

Here’s the announcement you’ve been patiently waiting for….

Ready or Not….

Here it comes…

How ’bout it?

-Vision Runner

When You Donate $1.00 or more, you get special VIP privileges at our Run Over To Ellen’s website…and we made it easy for you, just click on the donation widget below or in the sidebar, and you’ll receive special access to our VIP area at my Run Over To Ellen’s website where there are daily videos posted with updates and access to other great stuff as well!

P.S. If you have a website, you can go to www.firstgiving.com/visionrunner and grab the fundraising widget (that green box in the side bar and at the bottom of this post) so you can help us promote our fundraising goal!! You can also grab the widget right from the widget on our page. Just click on the purple Menu button and select “Share this widget” The code will be there, and you can just cut and paste it into your site that way!

Thanks!!