Thursday, October 18, 2007
rainbows and rv's
Just because you haven't heard from me in a while doesn't mean I’m not training. On the contrary — beginning October 1st I stepped up my running and workouts. Personally, I'm doing well. Family is awesome and work has been rewarding. I guess I’ve just been too busy to post.
Last weekend I stole away some personal time and traveled with a few friends to Cape Hatteras to relax and surf.
More on the trip in a moment.
I’m looking forward to seeing the group Saturday morning October 20.
Rainbows
The last time I joined the 26.2 with Donna group we ran 5 miles at UNF (and some of us ran an additional "magic mile").
It was October 6th and NE Florida was on the backside of several weeks of torrential rain.
Beds are the best place to be at 5:00 am when it’s pouring down rain.
Running in the rainy darkness might seem miserable but it does have some advantages.
The temp is a bit cooler with rain and if the dew point (thanks Tim) is favorable a rainy morning run can be very enjoyable.
Getting up and showing up is the tough part.
The group that morning was smaller than the 180 (or so) that I had gotten used to seeing. But, it’s still amazing to see 80 to 100 committed fund raising runners out at 5:30 in challenging elements.
After the "fasties" completed our run on Saturday I allowed myself some time to study the development of a rainbow in the western sky over the UNF pines. It reminded me of a sunrise. A whisper of refracting light in the sky gradually forcing it's full presence on the earth below. I determined that this emerging double rainbow was an appropriate finish for all of the selfless runners that managed to show up and participate on behalf of the Donna Hicken Foundation.
I'm glad I did not argue and grumble myself back to sleep!
RV's
The five day surf trip to Cape Hatteras (we stayed in Duck) was planned as a surprise for Scott "Doc" Wagner.
Thursday, October 11 thru Monday, October 15 was a well kept secret for nearly two months
His wife Kate took care of ALL the details. We traveled by rented RV to a rented house and relaxed and surfed for four days.
It was a great trip.
My only challenge was how to fit a fourteen mile run into the weekend.
If the Galloway group was running that distance on Saturday morning, October 13, I was determined to keep pace.
I awoke early Saturday morning to witness a sunrise from our "rented" North Carolina beach and thought back to the morning rainbow a week earlier in Jacksonville. It can be extraordinary and comforting to watch light grow and consume space. This would be a good day for a long run.
Sixteen miles and two hours later I was back at the house with my surf companions. They were all amazed that I managed to pull off a sixteen mile run in the middle of a surf trip. The run did not seem out of place to me. I'm not sure why but, I felt my day was more complete because of the time I spent outside that morning. Anyway, two hours later we were in the trusty RV heading south to catch perfect waist high waves. We would surf until the sun worked it's way down into the low western sky. The temperature dropped, the sky changed colors and as I watched my friends catch their last waves into the beach I felt at home.
Last weekend I stole away some personal time and traveled with a few friends to Cape Hatteras to relax and surf.
More on the trip in a moment.
I’m looking forward to seeing the group Saturday morning October 20.
Rainbows
The last time I joined the 26.2 with Donna group we ran 5 miles at UNF (and some of us ran an additional "magic mile").
It was October 6th and NE Florida was on the backside of several weeks of torrential rain.
Beds are the best place to be at 5:00 am when it’s pouring down rain.
Running in the rainy darkness might seem miserable but it does have some advantages.
The temp is a bit cooler with rain and if the dew point (thanks Tim) is favorable a rainy morning run can be very enjoyable.
Getting up and showing up is the tough part.
The group that morning was smaller than the 180 (or so) that I had gotten used to seeing. But, it’s still amazing to see 80 to 100 committed fund raising runners out at 5:30 in challenging elements.
After the "fasties" completed our run on Saturday I allowed myself some time to study the development of a rainbow in the western sky over the UNF pines. It reminded me of a sunrise. A whisper of refracting light in the sky gradually forcing it's full presence on the earth below. I determined that this emerging double rainbow was an appropriate finish for all of the selfless runners that managed to show up and participate on behalf of the Donna Hicken Foundation.
I'm glad I did not argue and grumble myself back to sleep!
RV's
The five day surf trip to Cape Hatteras (we stayed in Duck) was planned as a surprise for Scott "Doc" Wagner.
Thursday, October 11 thru Monday, October 15 was a well kept secret for nearly two months
His wife Kate took care of ALL the details. We traveled by rented RV to a rented house and relaxed and surfed for four days.
It was a great trip.
My only challenge was how to fit a fourteen mile run into the weekend.
If the Galloway group was running that distance on Saturday morning, October 13, I was determined to keep pace.
I awoke early Saturday morning to witness a sunrise from our "rented" North Carolina beach and thought back to the morning rainbow a week earlier in Jacksonville. It can be extraordinary and comforting to watch light grow and consume space. This would be a good day for a long run.
Sixteen miles and two hours later I was back at the house with my surf companions. They were all amazed that I managed to pull off a sixteen mile run in the middle of a surf trip. The run did not seem out of place to me. I'm not sure why but, I felt my day was more complete because of the time I spent outside that morning. Anyway, two hours later we were in the trusty RV heading south to catch perfect waist high waves. We would surf until the sun worked it's way down into the low western sky. The temperature dropped, the sky changed colors and as I watched my friends catch their last waves into the beach I felt at home.
Sunday, September 30, 2007
How much more can I carry?
How much more can I carry?
I ask myself this question almost every day.
Actually, it’s directed at God and I know his answer.
He will give me no more than I can bear.
Isn’t it amazing how we can be pressed and molded through our daily walk and somehow grow stronger and wiser if we are willing to open our hearts and minds.
This year my training has been sporadic. Work has been excessive and is affecting my priorities. I feel burdened at times and desperately search for balance. I am more prayerful and I have left myself open for answers that come from beyond myself.
My prayers are for my family and friends — with a very special prayer for Donna.
I know where she draws her strength from and I am confident that she will be strengthened beyond measure with all of our prayers.
I look forward to seeing everyone next Saturday.
I ask myself this question almost every day.
Actually, it’s directed at God and I know his answer.
He will give me no more than I can bear.
Isn’t it amazing how we can be pressed and molded through our daily walk and somehow grow stronger and wiser if we are willing to open our hearts and minds.
This year my training has been sporadic. Work has been excessive and is affecting my priorities. I feel burdened at times and desperately search for balance. I am more prayerful and I have left myself open for answers that come from beyond myself.
My prayers are for my family and friends — with a very special prayer for Donna.
I know where she draws her strength from and I am confident that she will be strengthened beyond measure with all of our prayers.
I look forward to seeing everyone next Saturday.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Perspective
At 3:30 Monday morning I awoke to heavy rain and wind. Oddly the weather wouldn’t keep me from falling back to sleep, my mind was already grappling with the morning ahead — a day filled with multiple presses. I reminded myself 6x’s to tell my oldest daughter to be careful on her drive to school (in the stormy weather). I worked my thoughts through an early morning meeting with an important client — I thought about the photo shoot we would have to reschedule and the final illustrations that needed to be done for a TV commercial before settling back to sleep (the entire time struggling to understand how I cut my foot during a late afternoon surf session). I was glad to get at least a small amount of rest.
Saturday morning the hotel bed in Orlando was comfortable but not my own.
Surf Expo was taking place and for the 17th year I was attending with several of my Kurtis Group associates as the creative team supporting Surf Expo’s marketing department. It was a busy weekend and I missed my run with the 26.2 group. On Sunday the Jacksonville Jaguars took on the Atlanta Falcons and from 9:00am until 11:00am I worked on retooling the “Jag Hammer” (see previous post). After the game I surfed Sunday evening for two hours and did some office work as well as some brief help with homework before calling it quits Sunday night.
Everyone gets to that point of exhaustion — where clear becomes blurred, black & white goes grey, definitely means maybe and sharp feels dull….
…I think I’ve been there for a short while.
Running and the 26.2 group are huge benefits in my life balance. I look forward to getting back into training and seeing everyone next Saturday.
Distractions and complications try and take hold in life but family and friendships cut through the clutter.
Tuesday morning I will run six miles on the beach in wind and rain.
It will invigorate and encourage me. I will remind myself how blessed and fortunate I am.
At 8:00 I will get back to work.
Saturday morning the hotel bed in Orlando was comfortable but not my own.
Surf Expo was taking place and for the 17th year I was attending with several of my Kurtis Group associates as the creative team supporting Surf Expo’s marketing department. It was a busy weekend and I missed my run with the 26.2 group. On Sunday the Jacksonville Jaguars took on the Atlanta Falcons and from 9:00am until 11:00am I worked on retooling the “Jag Hammer” (see previous post). After the game I surfed Sunday evening for two hours and did some office work as well as some brief help with homework before calling it quits Sunday night.
Everyone gets to that point of exhaustion — where clear becomes blurred, black & white goes grey, definitely means maybe and sharp feels dull….
…I think I’ve been there for a short while.
Running and the 26.2 group are huge benefits in my life balance. I look forward to getting back into training and seeing everyone next Saturday.
Distractions and complications try and take hold in life but family and friendships cut through the clutter.
Tuesday morning I will run six miles on the beach in wind and rain.
It will invigorate and encourage me. I will remind myself how blessed and fortunate I am.
At 8:00 I will get back to work.
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Drawing Lines
Week 4 there was fun surf so I missed the Galloway group training session (and the magic mile). It’s not that I really have a sense of guilt for missing the training run (I know it can be made up) — I know how much fun the drawing opportunity can be and it sets me back when I don’t take advantage of it.
I worked on some new sketches from the September 1, Saturday morning run. The run was a quick seven miles at the beach and close to my home. At 4:30 a.m. I was awake because (for whatever reason) my oldest daughter was awake. The doors in our house SQUEEEEEEK and later Saturday evening I made certain all ten of them no longer made any noise. It was easy for me to decide on a three mile run before joining the group for seven miles.We had a great time talking about Jags football, teaching and education, statistics, human physiology, weather (including our next potential tropical system), travel, marriage, etc., etc…yada, yada.
So, I’m at my computer and it’s Labor Day weekend. The 26.2 update is not really about anything however, when I look at my sketches I smile because within the lines there is so much that is meaningful. Loretta is my main subject. She is a wonderful person that runs with grace and has a comforting demeanor. If my sketches could capture her spirit I think it would be easy for people that don’t understand running to “get it”.
I hope that all of you are doing well.
Please take some time to do some additional research on the upcoming marathon.
http://www.breastcancermarathon.com/
The race medal has been designed and will be going into production next week.
Hopefully you will get a sneak peek very soon.
I worked on some new sketches from the September 1, Saturday morning run. The run was a quick seven miles at the beach and close to my home. At 4:30 a.m. I was awake because (for whatever reason) my oldest daughter was awake. The doors in our house SQUEEEEEEK and later Saturday evening I made certain all ten of them no longer made any noise. It was easy for me to decide on a three mile run before joining the group for seven miles.We had a great time talking about Jags football, teaching and education, statistics, human physiology, weather (including our next potential tropical system), travel, marriage, etc., etc…yada, yada.
So, I’m at my computer and it’s Labor Day weekend. The 26.2 update is not really about anything however, when I look at my sketches I smile because within the lines there is so much that is meaningful. Loretta is my main subject. She is a wonderful person that runs with grace and has a comforting demeanor. If my sketches could capture her spirit I think it would be easy for people that don’t understand running to “get it”.
I hope that all of you are doing well.
Please take some time to do some additional research on the upcoming marathon.
http://www.breastcancermarathon.com/
The race medal has been designed and will be going into production next week.
Hopefully you will get a sneak peek very soon.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Week 3 (and the Hammer)
Saturday, August 18, was a very busy day. Check out the image of "yours truly" shot by Paul Figura at the first Jaguar preseason game and find out what took place before the game.
I wasn’t supposed to run 17 miles on Saturday
I’m still trying to decide who I can blame.
Oh wait,… that would be the dumb, freckled guy with the bad haircut!!!
Apparently my large skull (filled with very little grey matter) seemed to think it was a good idea to run additional miles after finishing the quick five mile run with our group.
Tim and Donna Deegan are training for the New York Marathon and they had some additional miles to put in on Saturday. For some reason I thought it was only five miles.
My heart sunk after starting the run and learning we were going six miles out and six miles back.
Damn! — the beach gets hot after 3 hours of sloggin’ down small back roads at a “blistering” 3 mph. Eventually my feet were negotiating with Kurtis “the Shoe Bomber” in hopes of an immediate extraction from the painful pounding.
Unfortunately, the hardest part of the run was yet to come…
Jonathan (Nike Swoosh, speed demon, extraordinaire) was part of our comfortable run picnic and I knew we would not finish quietly. After separating from most of the group at 15 miles I realized the final two miles back to my car with Jonathan would be quick.
The pace was reasonable but my feet were toast. I could not wait to complete the “meat tenderizing”. I thanked Jonathan (forcing a smile) and then hobbled back to my car, opened the driver side door and placed my tired legs and butt into the most comfortable seat I had ever known. It was around 11:00 am and I had run the streets of Atlantic, Neptune, Jacksonville and PonteVedra Beach for the past four hours. Why? Who knows?
Early Saturday afternoon I was back at my office getting ready for the first Jaguar Preseason football game. My legs were cramping, the mind and body were exhausted however I was preparing for an annual ritual I share with my oldest daughter. Jaguar football is something we NEVER miss. This year I have a new weapon in my arsenal.
“Jag Hammer”
I’m crazy.
I understand.
One day I’ll come to terms with it.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Disconnect
Thinking back on last year I would have managed to steal away 1 hour of my weekend to update my blog. It’s Wednesday evening and I really don’t have the time to post my “running ramblings” but then I worry (in my OCD mind) if this is a sign of growing laziness. Maybe I’m experiencing a slight disconnect from this new group of runners because there are so many of us…
Nope, I think I’m getting lazy.
It’s funny how an older mind outwits a younger body.
Most people my age have bodies that tell their mind… “Are you kidding me!... six miles!... I’m not in shape for that!... lets go back to bed. I’m fortunate enough to have a body that is willing to run but, my mind is distracted and disconnected from the current running and fund raising goals. I’m certain a “Top Ten — Why I’m Distracted” list could be developed however, we know it would be a “Top Ten — Excuses” list.
The four mile run on Saturday, August 10, was slightly chaotic. Runners (200+) are still trying to figure out where they should be slotted with pace groups. The Galloway team is doing a terrific job of managing the herd but, it’s a work in progress. I’m hopeful that we hold our size and possibly expand over time.
After the run we hung together in a sweaty mass and slowly began the process of connecting with each other. There really is something unique about the training concept for 26.2 with Donna. I am confident that I will get my body to outwit my mind so that the 6 months ahead are filled with personal goals exceeded.
Stay with me and please try to be engaged.
Nope, I think I’m getting lazy.
It’s funny how an older mind outwits a younger body.
Most people my age have bodies that tell their mind… “Are you kidding me!... six miles!... I’m not in shape for that!... lets go back to bed. I’m fortunate enough to have a body that is willing to run but, my mind is distracted and disconnected from the current running and fund raising goals. I’m certain a “Top Ten — Why I’m Distracted” list could be developed however, we know it would be a “Top Ten — Excuses” list.
The four mile run on Saturday, August 10, was slightly chaotic. Runners (200+) are still trying to figure out where they should be slotted with pace groups. The Galloway team is doing a terrific job of managing the herd but, it’s a work in progress. I’m hopeful that we hold our size and possibly expand over time.
After the run we hung together in a sweaty mass and slowly began the process of connecting with each other. There really is something unique about the training concept for 26.2 with Donna. I am confident that I will get my body to outwit my mind so that the 6 months ahead are filled with personal goals exceeded.
Stay with me and please try to be engaged.
Saturday, August 04, 2007
Punching the Clock
When I get up for an early morning weekend surf session and I know the waves are going to be rough the phrase that comes to mind is "Punching the Clock". Weekends are reserved for "sleeping in". Setting the alarm for an early morning exit from the comfort of warm, soft, familiar cushioning to throw oneself into cold, unpredictable waters seems a bit crazy. “Punching the Clock” means work but, it’s good work. Thirty five years of surfing has taught me that the sacrifice of minimized sleep for several hours of riding challenging waves is worth it.
Pre-dawn, weekend training runs hold similar benefits.
Saturday, August 4, 7:00 am
Several hundred runners “Punched the Clock” this morning with a purpose far greater than self gratification. I am certain mothers and fathers, husbands and wives, young and old singles separated themselves from each and their beds this morning in order to participate in the first (collective) training run on behalf of the Donna Hicken Foundation and Mayo Clinics 26.2 Inaugural Marathon. The effort of so many individuals focused on helping to rid the world of breast cancer (and ALL its disastrous consequences) was impressive. Enthusiasm and encouragement will be the fuel to get us through to the finish.
My training artwork will take on a different look. I plan on shooting a lot of photo reference and then using the images for quick sketches that will be compiled into a meaningful composite of each of our training experiences. The composite drawings will be tightened up and final illustrations will be produced over the course of six months.
I hope you enjoy the energy and effort from this approach.
Pre-dawn, weekend training runs hold similar benefits.
Saturday, August 4, 7:00 am
Several hundred runners “Punched the Clock” this morning with a purpose far greater than self gratification. I am certain mothers and fathers, husbands and wives, young and old singles separated themselves from each and their beds this morning in order to participate in the first (collective) training run on behalf of the Donna Hicken Foundation and Mayo Clinics 26.2 Inaugural Marathon. The effort of so many individuals focused on helping to rid the world of breast cancer (and ALL its disastrous consequences) was impressive. Enthusiasm and encouragement will be the fuel to get us through to the finish.
My training artwork will take on a different look. I plan on shooting a lot of photo reference and then using the images for quick sketches that will be compiled into a meaningful composite of each of our training experiences. The composite drawings will be tightened up and final illustrations will be produced over the course of six months.
I hope you enjoy the energy and effort from this approach.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
I'm Back
I can hear the groans throughout my small Blogosphere.
The decision to blast my family, friends and business acquaintances with a new round of marathon training stories did not come easily. I am extremely sensitive of your time and understand that weekly updates from a fundraising marathoner can be disruptive. Please do not hesitate to email me with a request to be removed from the list. It WILL NOT HURT MY FEELINGS. My posts will be more meaningful because I will allow them to be more personal.
With that out of the way — How is everyone?
This Blog is meant to be interactive so please share your comments.
Last year I was encouraged and sustained not only by the financial giving you provided the Donna Hicken Foundation.but through your comments of support over the six months of my training. This year I have some exciting news.
The Donna Hicken Foundation has teamed with Mayo Clinic (and many other large corporate sponsors) to host a nationally sanctioned marathon with a sole purpose of raising funds (and awareness) for breast cancer research and regional support for breast cancer survivors. This is a very unique concept with incredible potential.
So much has already taken place “behind the scenes” to make this event a success that I could write for hours… I won’t. There are some links with my first post (scroll past images below). Besides the training I will probably try some artwork but with a new angle on the images. This year I will talk with the runners and paint in a personal portraiture approach. We’ll see how that goes.
Finally, I was honored with the opportunity to paint the Inaugural 26.2 with Donna poster.
Below are images of the final art, preliminary paintings and some of the reference I shot in order to produce the painting. You can order signed copies on line.
http://www.breastcancermarathon.com/
This year my primary fundraising and financial goal will be met through an exhibit of original work at the end of the training. I will hope to produce 15 large paintings that I will sell at prices between $800 and $2400. If this is a success I should be able to provide a minimum of $10,000 to the foundation. With that said you are welcome to enhance that goal with personal donations to the foundation.
The decision to blast my family, friends and business acquaintances with a new round of marathon training stories did not come easily. I am extremely sensitive of your time and understand that weekly updates from a fundraising marathoner can be disruptive. Please do not hesitate to email me with a request to be removed from the list. It WILL NOT HURT MY FEELINGS. My posts will be more meaningful because I will allow them to be more personal.
With that out of the way — How is everyone?
This Blog is meant to be interactive so please share your comments.
Last year I was encouraged and sustained not only by the financial giving you provided the Donna Hicken Foundation.but through your comments of support over the six months of my training. This year I have some exciting news.
The Donna Hicken Foundation has teamed with Mayo Clinic (and many other large corporate sponsors) to host a nationally sanctioned marathon with a sole purpose of raising funds (and awareness) for breast cancer research and regional support for breast cancer survivors. This is a very unique concept with incredible potential.
So much has already taken place “behind the scenes” to make this event a success that I could write for hours… I won’t. There are some links with my first post (scroll past images below). Besides the training I will probably try some artwork but with a new angle on the images. This year I will talk with the runners and paint in a personal portraiture approach. We’ll see how that goes.
Finally, I was honored with the opportunity to paint the Inaugural 26.2 with Donna poster.
Below are images of the final art, preliminary paintings and some of the reference I shot in order to produce the painting. You can order signed copies on line.
http://www.breastcancermarathon.com/
This year my primary fundraising and financial goal will be met through an exhibit of original work at the end of the training. I will hope to produce 15 large paintings that I will sell at prices between $800 and $2400. If this is a success I should be able to provide a minimum of $10,000 to the foundation. With that said you are welcome to enhance that goal with personal donations to the foundation.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Let’s see if I can beat Chris
It’s official. The Galloway marathon training program www.jeffgalloway.com/ was kicked off in grand style this morning. Several hundred local participants joined several thousand others across the country in the first day of preparation to run the inaugural 26.2 with Donna www.breastcancermarathon.com
My last post came after the completion of the Jacksonville Marathon at the end of 2006.
I took several months off from running and attempted to pack some meat back onto my skinny little body. I failed. Without complaining and making excuses for getting distracted from my goal I think it’s better that I fast forward several months to April ’07.
I received a phone call from the Jacksonville events office the third week in April to initiate work on the inaugural poster for the 26.2 with Donna. The marathon takes place in Jacksonville Beach, February 17, 2008 and the city along with the Donna Hicken Foundation and Mayo Clinic were already deep into the marketing efforts. I was thrilled to get the call and eager to begin concepting ideas.
The marathon is very unique in that a portion of the run takes place on the beach. I run almost every other day on the beach — the beach will be my focus! After several early morning (incredibly inspiring) beach runs my mind locked in on a concept that involved leaping “pink dolphin” forming the breast cancer ribbon with a stream of runners in the background along Jacksonville Beach.
Several conversations with Donna and additional input from her support team challenged me to rethink the approach. The ideas kept flowing and eventually we narrowed the artwork down to a montage of recognizable Jacksonville Beach iconic elements.
It took about 70 hours to move through this process and complete the artwork. I am pleased with the work and hope that it inspires you to remain connected to this effort.
I have renewed myself and look forward to the next six months of training.
The posts will happen once a week and will be similar to my posts from last year.
Intrigue, pain, humor and drivel.
Oh, (by the way) Chris is the 100 Mile Ultrastud representing Galloway who trains us mortals. I think I CAN take him this year (in the marathon) if someone is willing to mess with his Gatorade at mile 18.
Below is the rationale I offered to the media on behalf of my marathon poster creative efforts.
Title - “Sea of Ribbons in the Sun”
In 2006 I participated in The Donna Hicken Foundation marathon training and fund raising effort. I was instantly inspired by the motivation exhibited by all the participants and their sincere desire to be successful.
From that inspiration I developed a personal journal that I supplemented with weekly paintings from our various training locations. The small paintings became gifts for all the individuals that supported me throughout the training and eventually the marathon.
A year later I am extremely honored to be able to provide the commemorative “inaugural” artwork for The National Marathon to Fight Breast Cancer.
A “bright sunlight” painterly style is reminiscent of the small paintings I produced during my fundraising in “06. The artwork combines many Jacksonville Beach landmarks and although the scene that I have created does not exist the runners will experience all the views along their 26.2 mile journey.
My last post came after the completion of the Jacksonville Marathon at the end of 2006.
I took several months off from running and attempted to pack some meat back onto my skinny little body. I failed. Without complaining and making excuses for getting distracted from my goal I think it’s better that I fast forward several months to April ’07.
I received a phone call from the Jacksonville events office the third week in April to initiate work on the inaugural poster for the 26.2 with Donna. The marathon takes place in Jacksonville Beach, February 17, 2008 and the city along with the Donna Hicken Foundation and Mayo Clinic were already deep into the marketing efforts. I was thrilled to get the call and eager to begin concepting ideas.
The marathon is very unique in that a portion of the run takes place on the beach. I run almost every other day on the beach — the beach will be my focus! After several early morning (incredibly inspiring) beach runs my mind locked in on a concept that involved leaping “pink dolphin” forming the breast cancer ribbon with a stream of runners in the background along Jacksonville Beach.
Several conversations with Donna and additional input from her support team challenged me to rethink the approach. The ideas kept flowing and eventually we narrowed the artwork down to a montage of recognizable Jacksonville Beach iconic elements.
It took about 70 hours to move through this process and complete the artwork. I am pleased with the work and hope that it inspires you to remain connected to this effort.
I have renewed myself and look forward to the next six months of training.
The posts will happen once a week and will be similar to my posts from last year.
Intrigue, pain, humor and drivel.
Oh, (by the way) Chris is the 100 Mile Ultrastud representing Galloway who trains us mortals. I think I CAN take him this year (in the marathon) if someone is willing to mess with his Gatorade at mile 18.
Below is the rationale I offered to the media on behalf of my marathon poster creative efforts.
Title - “Sea of Ribbons in the Sun”
In 2006 I participated in The Donna Hicken Foundation marathon training and fund raising effort. I was instantly inspired by the motivation exhibited by all the participants and their sincere desire to be successful.
From that inspiration I developed a personal journal that I supplemented with weekly paintings from our various training locations. The small paintings became gifts for all the individuals that supported me throughout the training and eventually the marathon.
A year later I am extremely honored to be able to provide the commemorative “inaugural” artwork for The National Marathon to Fight Breast Cancer.
A “bright sunlight” painterly style is reminiscent of the small paintings I produced during my fundraising in “06. The artwork combines many Jacksonville Beach landmarks and although the scene that I have created does not exist the runners will experience all the views along their 26.2 mile journey.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Finally
Q:
So is it ok to have sex before the marathon?
A:
Yes, as long as you don’t distract the starter.
It’s an old worn out marathon joke but this is my last marathon blog entry and I felt inclined to utilize a salacious writing tactic to guarantee as many eyes as possible.
By the numbers:
2,180 — Combined runners in the half and full marathon
80 — Donna Hicken runners (congratulations team!!!!!)
2:30:07 — First place time for men
3:44:35 — Kurtis Loftus (wow the guy that won is fast)
242 — Overall finish for Kurtis
8:34 — mile pace for Kurtis
30 — walk breaks (12 more than the Galloway plan suggests)
110 — heat index at 10:30 am (not really, but it was hot)
6 — Advil consumed…
…the list could go on and on.
“We run, not because we think it is doing us good, but because we enjoy it and cannot help ourselves. It also does us good because it helps us to do other things better. It gives a man or woman the chance to bring out power that might otherwise remain locked away inside. The urge to struggle lies latent in everyone.”
Roger Bannister, “The Four-Minute Mile”
I’ve been told that the last eight miles of a marathon run is the most difficult — now I can confirm it.
I’ve been asked if I plan to do another marathon — Definitely (but if you had asked me during my marathon run, I would have said “no” at mile 23).
Inspiration:
I experienced two uniquely different psycho-physical appeals to finish the marathon beginning at mile 24.
The first opportunity was to finish with a young man (19 - 22 years old). I greeted him as he walked along San Jose Blvd. I thought if I could finish the marathon with someone that looked like a strong runner and was half my age it might reflect well on me. We walked and then I encouraged him to jog. He mentioned that his longest training run was 20 miles. At the 25 mile mark he said he was going to commit to running the rest of the way in. The next time we spoke was after he crossed the finish (at least 1 minute behind me).
My second opportunity for inspiration came during mile 25. With less than a mile to go I heard labored breathing and strong footsteps slowly gaining on me. When the breathing was just to my right side I looked over to find a red-faced older gentleman (certainly in his 60’s). He appeared ready to pass out as we trudged along together. I thought I would at least hang with him all the way to the finish. I could not. He beat my time by almost 30 seconds.
Congratulations:
Dona Hicken and the Galloway Team!!!!!!!!!!
Loretta (first place in her age group)!!!!!!!!!!!!
Phil — One of Jacksonville’s finest and proving why (River Run is next)!!!!!!!!!!!
Finally:
I’m getting a much deserved massage.
Health Elements is owned by Cynthia DeWitt, a marathon runner.
If any Donna Hicken/Galloway runners have not taken advantage of a good massage I recommend calling Cynthia. 249-0921
Thank you to all my supporters!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So is it ok to have sex before the marathon?
A:
Yes, as long as you don’t distract the starter.
It’s an old worn out marathon joke but this is my last marathon blog entry and I felt inclined to utilize a salacious writing tactic to guarantee as many eyes as possible.
By the numbers:
2,180 — Combined runners in the half and full marathon
80 — Donna Hicken runners (congratulations team!!!!!)
2:30:07 — First place time for men
3:44:35 — Kurtis Loftus (wow the guy that won is fast)
242 — Overall finish for Kurtis
8:34 — mile pace for Kurtis
30 — walk breaks (12 more than the Galloway plan suggests)
110 — heat index at 10:30 am (not really, but it was hot)
6 — Advil consumed…
…the list could go on and on.
“We run, not because we think it is doing us good, but because we enjoy it and cannot help ourselves. It also does us good because it helps us to do other things better. It gives a man or woman the chance to bring out power that might otherwise remain locked away inside. The urge to struggle lies latent in everyone.”
Roger Bannister, “The Four-Minute Mile”
I’ve been told that the last eight miles of a marathon run is the most difficult — now I can confirm it.
I’ve been asked if I plan to do another marathon — Definitely (but if you had asked me during my marathon run, I would have said “no” at mile 23).
Inspiration:
I experienced two uniquely different psycho-physical appeals to finish the marathon beginning at mile 24.
The first opportunity was to finish with a young man (19 - 22 years old). I greeted him as he walked along San Jose Blvd. I thought if I could finish the marathon with someone that looked like a strong runner and was half my age it might reflect well on me. We walked and then I encouraged him to jog. He mentioned that his longest training run was 20 miles. At the 25 mile mark he said he was going to commit to running the rest of the way in. The next time we spoke was after he crossed the finish (at least 1 minute behind me).
My second opportunity for inspiration came during mile 25. With less than a mile to go I heard labored breathing and strong footsteps slowly gaining on me. When the breathing was just to my right side I looked over to find a red-faced older gentleman (certainly in his 60’s). He appeared ready to pass out as we trudged along together. I thought I would at least hang with him all the way to the finish. I could not. He beat my time by almost 30 seconds.
Congratulations:
Dona Hicken and the Galloway Team!!!!!!!!!!
Loretta (first place in her age group)!!!!!!!!!!!!
Phil — One of Jacksonville’s finest and proving why (River Run is next)!!!!!!!!!!!
Finally:
I’m getting a much deserved massage.
Health Elements is owned by Cynthia DeWitt, a marathon runner.
If any Donna Hicken/Galloway runners have not taken advantage of a good massage I recommend calling Cynthia. 249-0921
Thank you to all my supporters!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
the long road short
I ran a quick six miles on Tuesday morning. It was a familiar run with my thoughts focused on work related issues and the upcoming marathon.
My training is coming to a close and I've experienced a variety of physical and emotional ups and downs.
I've been humbled and encouraged, torn down and built back up.
The process has brought new friendships and given me a deeper appreciation of the ones I have.
More importantly, I will gratefully finish this short chapter with the satisfacction that there will be “very real” positive influence beyond my reach.
Writing this journal has been enjoyable. Painting has been a selfish reward.
Dozens of emails from friends and family have helped to feed my soul.
I realized during my Tuesday morning run that just finishing the marathon is all that matters.
The Donna Hicken Foundation/Galloway runners will have a (pre race) pasta dinner on Monday, December 11.
My fundraising goal is $5000.00. Twenty-two checks have come in totaling $3,500.00.
If you are still interested in supporting the foundation PLEASE try and get your checks in before that evening.
The gallery is posted at www.gulpgallery.blogspot.com
Make a donation and let me know which print I can sign and send your way.
I will probably have two final posts including a wrap-up.
Thank you for ALL the support!
Make checks payable to:
The Donna Hicken Foundation
Mail to:
The Kurtis Group
425 8th ave. n.
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
My training is coming to a close and I've experienced a variety of physical and emotional ups and downs.
I've been humbled and encouraged, torn down and built back up.
The process has brought new friendships and given me a deeper appreciation of the ones I have.
More importantly, I will gratefully finish this short chapter with the satisfacction that there will be “very real” positive influence beyond my reach.
Writing this journal has been enjoyable. Painting has been a selfish reward.
Dozens of emails from friends and family have helped to feed my soul.
I realized during my Tuesday morning run that just finishing the marathon is all that matters.
The Donna Hicken Foundation/Galloway runners will have a (pre race) pasta dinner on Monday, December 11.
My fundraising goal is $5000.00. Twenty-two checks have come in totaling $3,500.00.
If you are still interested in supporting the foundation PLEASE try and get your checks in before that evening.
The gallery is posted at www.gulpgallery.blogspot.com
Make a donation and let me know which print I can sign and send your way.
I will probably have two final posts including a wrap-up.
Thank you for ALL the support!
Make checks payable to:
The Donna Hicken Foundation
Mail to:
The Kurtis Group
425 8th ave. n.
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
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