Boston for Brittany Recap

 Get ready for one detailed Boston Marathon Recap!  Are you ready?! 

Garth, Sommer, Calvin and I arrived in Boston on Saturday after catching a ridiculously early flight.  Rich, Brittany's dad, offered to give us a ride to the airport, picking us up at 4:30 am!  Bless his heart.

After maneuvering ourselves and baggage through the "T," we easily found our hotel and checked in.  We were thrilled to be given an awesome upgrade (much bigger room with 2 bathrooms).  It was only 8 am, but we had already been up for 4 hours.  With stomach's growling, we walked through the beautiful Boston Commons and headed straight for my favorite breakfast place, "The Paramount."

There are many others who love this restaurant and the line was long.  So long in fact, we had to wait in it for about 40 minutes.  But after receiving our 3 larger than life pancakes (mine with fresh blueberries), we quickly forgot about the inconvenience. 

The weather was unbelievable cold (in the high 30's), and we all suffered (except Garth who  brilliantly packed three coats).  After putting on a couple extra layers, we headed to the ultimate rush, the Boston Marathon Expo!

Garth and Calvin hung with Sommer and I for a bit at the madhouse, but had happily made other plans, attending a Boston Red Sox game.  And even with the freezing temps, they had a super time!

Sommer and I had no problem having fun at the Expo.  Sommer immediately spotted a "hot" guy, the famous Josh Cox (fastest American in the 50k) signing autographs.  I was surprised when she asked to hop in line to meet him.  We were lucky to be given the last spot.  He was incredible gracious and chatted away.  We talked about his new baby, his fast running and of course what all runners talk about...bathroom issues (I won't go into details about that for all of you non-runners)

We spotted Ryan Hall (American's fastest marathoner), but that line was way long...and luckily Sommer didn't think he was quite as "hot" and therefore not worth the wait.  We did however sneak in a picture.

The expo was full of some serious crowds!

We picked up my race bib and shirt and then started our quest to find all of the FREE stuff we could get!  We loaded up on everything from bottles of Pom juice, powerbars, chips, tattoos, SO MANY THINGS!  I love it.

Our favorite booth at the expo was the Sweaty Bands!  Women were flocking it!  They had rows and rows of every style, color and size of the cutest head bands.  We had a hard time narrowing our selections...they were not cheap (ringing up at $18 each)...why don't we think of this stuff!

After purchasing the coveted "Boston" jacket, we pushed and shoved our way out of the crowds and to Boylston Street (the finish line).

There we found plenty of runners kissing it, laying on it and visualizing their finish. I asked Sommer if she wanted to give it a try but she refused.  I too wasn't quite interested in the kissing part.

 The next day brought warmer weather giving us the opportunity to enjoy the many outdoor restaurants.  We met up with Jen, Frank and Katie for a lovely lunch.  After chowing down on plenty of carbs, we finished with a stop at Pinkberry (my first time)...and how yummy was that?!

 We had plenty of "down" time and decided that the movie theatre was something we wanted to take advantage of while we had the freedom.  Sommer and Calvin were able to see 5 movies...yes 5, I came in second with 4 and Garth was able to see 3. 

While waiting for various movies to start, we found plenty of time to "goof" around.  On Saturday afternoon, they had a group from Nielson Ratings, doing surveys.  We were asked to participate (we had to watch a few previews and rate the movie).  We were thrilled to give our opinions, especially when freebies were involved... popcorn, t-shirts and other goodies!

We were sure to get a few random shots in the cardboard advertisements.  You can see what Calvin might look like as a girl or how Sommer reacts when a "skull" is attacking.

 On Sunday, Jen and I were thinking our race outfits were lacking just a bit.  We decided our nails needed some hot pink polish!  You would have thought nail salons were a dime a dozen along the busy shopping street...but no...we could only find one.  It as an Aveda salon and they did not have a technician available to do our nails.  We truly knew the importance of having our nails done so we decided to just purchase the polish and do our own nails. The only problem was Jen and Sommer had old polish still intact.  So we asked the receptionist if we could use some remover to take our polish off.

They were kind of enough to honor our request, even letting us sit down at the station and proceed to do our nails.  After plenty of giggles...and thinking we might even get a job offer...our nails were gorgeous and ready for the race.

As we were painting our nails, one of the hair stylists, Roberto came over to chat with us.  As we were leaving, I asked him if he knew how to braid hair.  He replied, of course.  And my last problem was solved...

 We left the salon experience with lovely nails, braided hair and a good story.  And both Jen and I had a "happy" moment or two during the race where we glanced at our nails and smiled, remembering the previous days fun.

 We could only have so much fun before race day finally came.  As usual, I slept horribly.  After a full night of tossing and turning, I stopped the fight and started getting ready (5:30 am).  The crazy thing about the Boston Marathon is the start time.  The race doesn't even start until 10:20.  But the tricky part is everything that happens before that.  All of the racers make their way to Boston Common to board one of hundreds of buses.  It was a chilly...and windy morning!  Linda and I met in our hotel lobby and made our way to the bus line.  After what seemed like hours of suffering, we finally made it on the bus. 

The bus ride can be a bit disturbing.  You see, they drive you to the start!  And although they don't take the marathon route, it does seem daunting driving and driving and driving....the whole time thinking...I have to run back?!  And the suffering doesn't end there.  If you have been sipping your water and Gatorade, the bladder pain begins during the bus ride.  Runners begin to moan and groan as the final miles of the ride linger ever so slowly.

This year's bus ride had the usual male subject who couldn't "wait" any longer and insisted the driver pull over.  The rest of us, are then privy to a potty show out our window as the runner relieves himself for what seems like hours.  We of course all need to "go" too, so that makes things even more disturbing.

After surviving the bus trek, we are dropped off at the Athletes Village, or as I like to describe it, the muddy, crowded, freezing high school field.

This year didn't disappoint.  With winds blowing and temps low...we were indeed cold.  As we all gathered together, we made our final outfit adjustments (should we wear our gloves or not? hat? how about arm sleeves?), and pretended to be calm.  In reality, we were all a bunch of nerves wondering what the outcome of the race might be.  We knew there would be pain and suffering...but how much?  Those questions would be answered shortly.

 What we actually did while at the Athlete's Village was spend time standing in the outrageously long porta potty lines...a few times.  You see, you gotta do, what you gotta do.

Because there are 3 different start times (10, 10:20 and 10:40), we couldn't all stick together.  So after hugs and kisses we separated, dropped off our gear at the buses, and began the .5 mile walk to the start.  We are alone at this point (unless you are lucky enough to have a friend in your corral...Jen and Steve, John and BethAnn, Linda and Ann)...okay so I was the only one alone...

I made my way to my starting corral with a few minutes to spare.  I said a little prayer and the crowds of runners began their way to the start.  It took me about 4 minutes to actually cross the starting line.  And then it was show time.

My goal was to keep my pace between 7:50 and 8:00 minute miles.  My first few miles were right on.  I felt great. I was high fiving as many children as I could, taking in the roar of cheering fans and just loving the experience.

But all that usually changes during a marathon.  The key is to have your "light switch" go off as late as possible along the course.  I started feeling the "dimmer" switch making its presence known about mile 8.  I did my best to ignore it.  That didn't work to well.  My body required a "potty" stop at mile 9.  I hoped that would be the end of it (ha) but that was wishful thinking.  It wasn't many miles after that I had to stop again.  I did my best to run a bit faster after making my stops but 3 minutes is tough when you are already running your pace.

I still was running some pretty good splits though and my light switch by no means had turned off...so I kept moving.

I knew the previous miles of downhill would cause my quads to weaken and sure enough, I began to feel them.  I began to anticipate the "Newton Hills (3 miles of gradual hills, the final one, Heartbreak Hill, quite a doozy)," and took a quick gu break, chugging down two and a big glass of water in preparation for them.

That seemed to work and I really was able to settle in to a painful (yes painful but doable) climb.  I have a little thing I do on hills (or when I am in pain).  I make my way to the road's painted lines.  I put all of my focus on the line, not looking up at any point, just driving up and up until the up is over.  It works pretty darn good. And I am always surprised how many people I pass...that always boosts your morale.

At mile 22 (after the heartbreak hill), there is a wicked downhill.  And although my heart enjoys this portion, my legs do not. 

But on you go...what choice do you have?  I had my music on shuffle during this portion of the race and a random song came on (I can't even remember it) that was right on my cadence.  Funny thing, I ended up hitting that song over and over again...for about 2 miles...seriously.

At mile 24, one would think, with only 2 miles to go, how simple it would be...but on the contrary.  The last few miles seem like an eternity.  If you glance at your watch (and I try not to do that at this point of a marathon), each tenth of a mile goes along ridiculously slow.  It can tempt you to walk (and my last Boston I actually tried the walking thing...found it just as painful as running...but slower)...but I don't fall for that.  I just keep putting one foot in front of the other...in running motion.

And after what seems like a few hours, you see mile 25.  For me, that mile marker tells me one thing...I can finish.  Boston throws in a little under pass followed by a little steep climb...a total joke in my opinion.  After one  finishes that not so funny terrain, the road turns.  And just like that, you are on Boylston Street.  You can see the finish.  The crowds are lined up 10 rows deep...screaming, cheering, motivating.  The problem with this portion of the race is the big blue arch signifying the finish seemingly far in the distance. In reality it is only something like .3 miles away...but man it seems farther.

But digging deep is a marathon requirement.

I dug.  Garth, Sommer and Calvin see me (I am in the black shirt with argyle skirt).  They cheer.  Those strangers around them join in...GO MOM!  The finish nears.  I finish.  Not the ultimate time I wanted but a time I am proud of: 3:36:53.  After walking through each station (water, medals, blanket, food), Steve and Jen call out, "over here Heather."  We share our marathon journey story.  We wait for our other friends.  We make new friends (this naked guy ran the entire marathon with only a loin cloth...no shoes!), we stretch, we try to walk, we smile.

My splits:

Mile 1: 7:54:42

Mile 2: 7:48:97

Mile 3: 7:56:45

Mile 4:7:50:80

Mile 5: 8:05:05

Mile 6: 8:01:18

Mile 7: 8:00:62

 Mile 8: 8:07:73

Mile 9: 8:01:16

Mile 10: 7:41:77

Mile 11:7:57:90

Mile 12: 7:50:74

Mile 13: 8:06:63

Mile 14: 7:59:17

Mile 15: 8:15:10

Mile 16: 8:21: 87

Mile 17: 8:18:81

Mile 18: 8:38:13

Mile 19: 8:09:00

Mile 20: 8:35:67

Mile 21: 8:46: 63

Mile 22: 8:09:94

Mile 23: 8:02:10

Mile 24: 8:05:07

Mile 25: 8:35: 75

Mile 26-26.2: 10:21:05

For me, the race is over. But for Brittany, her race continues. If you would still like to make a donation to NBIA, please do so...I am SO close to reaching $5000!

You can send a check (made out to NBIA) directly to me (14807 Ashby Oak Court, Haymarket, VA 20169) or Brittany's parents (see above).  All donations go directly to NBIA research...we promise! I picked up a special Boston Marathon souvenir just for you.  I will be having a drawing for all of those who donated, a pair of black Boston 2011 arm sleeves (totally cool)!

To see more pictures click here. (type in Porter and bib # 13637 and Boston 2011) To see it bigger just click on the magnifying glass at the bottom of each picture).

Thank You EVERYONE!

The Boston Marathon is over....whew!  My legs are still feeling the pain from the massive downhills followed by the intense uphills...followed by more downhill...uphill...downhill...pain, pain, pain. and pain.

I will share a detailed Marathon Weekend post in the next day or two (with tons of pictures).  But today I wanted to let you know that we raised over $4800 for NBIA!  I was hoping to hit $5000 but I am as pleased as punch that we were thousands over my original goal of $2620!  I couldn't have done this without you...my dear friends...thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Now...drum roll please...we have some prize winners:

My official finishing time was 3:36:53 (so bummed I didn't PR but happy)!

Here is the breakdown of prize winners!

The closest guess goes to Julia Turner of Haymarket, VA with a guess of 3:36:42 and will be taking home a $50 gift card to The Running Store!

2nd place and winner of the totally darling Coach cosmetic bag with a guess of 3:35:25 is BethAnn Telford and John Carmichael (I hope he will let BethAnn have the bag) of Centreville, VA!

3rd place and winner of  a $10 gift card to Starbucks with a guess of 3:35:11 is Kirsten Printz of Roanoke, VA!

4th place and winner of a Cold Stone gift card with a guess of 3:35:07 is Claire Pothier of Gilbert, AZ!

5th place and winner of a $10 gift card to Starbucks with a guess of 3:35:02 is JoAnn Hahn of Centreville, VA!

6th place and winner of a Cold Stone gift card with a guess of 3:35:00 is Ann Anderson of Gainesville, VA!

7th place and winner of a Cold Stone gift card with a guess of 3:34: 20 is David Pothier of Gilbert, AZ!

8th place and winner of a Cold Stone gift card with a guess of 3:34 15 is Ethan Porter of Haymarket, VA!

All winners will be receiving their prizes soon!

Boston Here I Come!

My bags are packed.  My music has been downloaded. My shirt is ready.  And I am ready to hear thousands of spectators cheering out, "BOSTON FOR BRITTANY!"

 Both the Leap Family and I are truly grateful for your outpouring of support...donations just keep coming in!  We are now approaching the $5000 mark (woot! woot!)...wouldn't that be crazy awesome if we did?!

Our total so far: $4749.71

Donations will be accepted through Monday morning and can be placed in my mailbox!

If you are planning on following my progress on Monday during the marathon, here two options:

To have a text message sent to you tracking my progress click here.  It is as simple as texting RUNNER to 345678.  You will then need to enter my bib number: 13637

To follow race day coverage, go here on race day, look for the link to follow runners and simply enter my bib number 13637.

See you all on Wednesday when I post the results!

We Did It!

We reached our goal...wait...let me correct that...we SURPASSED our goal!  A huge THANK YOU to all of our friends and family who donated in honor of Brittany for NBIA research. I know there is still money on its way...and it will all be collected and sent directly to the NBIA headquarters in California (so if you still would like to donate...please do so).

My original goal was to raise $2620 (honoring the marathon distance of 26.2 miles), we have gone way beyond that goal by over $1700!  I will most definitely post the GRAND total when I return from Boston next Tuesday.

As you know, Brittany has been in the hospital all week working on her breathing issues.  But the latest and greatest news is she is returning home with mom and dad tonight.  So this thumb's up is also for you, Brittany from all of your fans!  We LOVE you!

Tomorrow I will be posting all of the information on how to view my progress on Monday during the race.  Starting time is at 10:20 am.  There are multiple timing mats that each runner must pass over throughout the course. Each time we cross over a mat, our time is recorded and sent directly to you.  It gives a predicted finishing time and changes as each runner progresses along the race.

I know each time I cross a mat, you will be cheering for me.

So be sure to check in tomorrow to learn all of the details!

KIDS ROCK!

You all know I think Brittany is the coolest kid around. My kids are pretty cool too.  So are your kids...all rockin'! Kids really do amazing things.

I mean, just today I went to visit Brittany in the hospital (great excuse for me to have Chipotle with Sandy)...yes, she is hanging out there again (breathing issues).  When I arrived she had just fallen asleep as her mother was reading to her...a tough night makes for a sleepy day.

As I was just about to leave, she awoke.  She forced her tired little hand out from under her sheet and lifted it to mine. I squeezed it.  I told her I was ready to run the Boston Marathon for her.  The best fun was telling her all about my cool race outfit...complete with BOSTON FOR BRITTANY (in zebra letters) on the front and GOOGLE IT on the back!  I think she approved!

So, you know I think the world of Brittany.  I love hearing about other children that are "outta of this world" awesome.  Can I share the story of Dayton's Legs with you? 

Do enjoy this touching story!

We can all give...in so many ways...whether it is our time, our touch, our talents.  Don't hold back on giving. 

"Be grateful for every opportunity to serve. It helps you more than those you serve."

I Heart Brittany...We all do!

It was six months ago that I started this little blog capturing my Boston for Brittany journey.  It was my hope to raise attention and money for NBIA for my friend Brittany as she and her family struggle with this difficult disease.

As I look back on the past few months, I have seen a person living with an imperfect body living a perfect life.  She is patient. She is kind.  She is giving.  She is a friend to all.

She lives a life with so many "can'ts." She can't run.  She can't walk. Her back bent from scoliosis, she can't sit on her own.  Her small feet twisted and sweet hands bent, she can't use them.  She can't talk.  She can't see perfectly.  She can't eat....

But she doesn't care.  Because she know what she CAN do.  And although I am sure there are times when Brittany wants to scream and shout (probably at her mother...and I am just saying this because my daughter does it to me...it's only fair to say), to walk, to share all of the thoughts that remain trapped within...she lives a life beaming with joy.

We are all given hardships in this life.  No one is exempt.  It is what we do in  these difficult times...who we become...that is of up most importance.

I heart Brittany because I know who she has become.  She is someone that makes me a better person.  It might look like I am there "giving" her so much as I spend time with her but that is not the case in any way.  I am the one that has been blessed by serving Brittany.

I want to share THIS amazing address given to a group of students at Brigham Young University in 1996 by Elder Busche giving advice to those listening on how to become a disciple of Christ. 

May we all lose the "can'ts" in our life and embrace the "cans." And by so doing, we will become who we need to be, true disciples of Christ.

If you feel you "can" donate a small amount for NBIA research, please do so.  And to those that have donated...

Thank you

It's the Final Countdown...AND NEVER TOO LATE!

It is official, the BIG race is in one week!  Woot, woot, woot (fist is pumping Arsenio Hall style)!

I can't tell you how excited I am to run for Brittany.  I am amazed at your generous donations on Brittany's behalf for NBIA!

Go NBIA!

My dear friend Robyn, created this little Smilebox sharing my Boston for Brittany journey... Thanks to you, I have surpassed my goal by over $500! But we shouldn't stop there!  No Way! Can we add a little more? YES...WE CAN! Please send in your donations (or drop them by)... It is not too late.

Bloom Where You are Planted

Our family headed over to DC on Sunday to see the Cherry Blossoms in full bloom...and man was it pretty.  We had such a fun time hanging out on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial taking in the Tidal Basin, the crowds of people from EVERYWHERE and of course the beauty of the blossoms.

Looking over the tidal basin, I thought about the gift of the Cherry Blossom trees that were given to us by the Japanese years ago.  I can't imagine spring without them. 

Last year we planted our very own Weeping Cherry Tree.  I was inspired by Sandy and Rich after seeing their AMAZING Weeping Cherry.  I have high hopes for our scrawny little guy.  It has grown some new crazy branches and even sprouted some nice bright pink blossoms in its first year with us!  I can only hope that one day it will be just like the Leap's tree.

(our tree)

(the Leap's Tree)

The story I love is the one Sandy tells about their Cherry Tree.  They saw the most despicable tree at a garden center years ago. Rich insisted on buying it.  For the first few years, it was pretty sad.  But Rich took the time to water, trim and nourish it.  And today it is one of my most favorite trees.

We can't assume a small, weak tree isn't worth our time.  We are all weak and small (in some area of our lives) really.  There will be trials, sickness, set backs and disappointments that come our way.  But we can overcome.  We can chose to "bloom where we are planted" with a little hard work and love!

Brittany might be weak in body but in spirit she is stronger than most of us realize.  Her parents continue to fight the fight.  Brittany continues to fight the fight.  And we as friends, will do the same...until a cure for NBIA is found.

My race is in less than two weeks (can you believe it)!  Will you send a small donation in honor of Brittany's fight.

Thank you!

Going the Extra Mile...and Reaping the Reward

You are all good people.  You do good things.  You do so much for your families, church groups, friends and neighbors, teachers...so many wonderful things are done by YOU!  As I ran last Saturday and I contemplated stopping at mile 23 (truth be told, my husband was insisting...and really I agreed...I didn't want to disturb my actually Boston Marathon training by running my legs to the ground), but I kept thinking of going those "extra miles."  There were only 3!  I mean, after running 23, why not just keep going?

Before reaching 23, I knew from experience what usually happened around mile 20...total breakdown of body and mind.  I didn't want that to happen BEFORE my actual marathon.

 I remember with clarity, some 8 years ago when I ran my second marathon and first attempt at a Boston qualifying time.  I was all smiles and high fives until a light switch went off at mile 18.  It was like I had been hit over the head with a brick.  And then my legs felt like bricks.  I recall the pain being similar to child birth (minus the epidural)...seriously!  I just wanted the blasted thing to be over.  I remember seeing scores of runners pass me...feeling defeated, I almost quit.  But I didn't.  I kept saying, "Just put one foot in front of the other Heather."  And I did. I guess what, I finished...and qualified for Boston.

 So while running I thought to myself it was pretty awesome to run 23 miles.  It was a good thing...pretty awesome feat if I say so myself.  I mean, who runs 23 miles on a Saturday morning...not many people.  It would be totally fine to hop in the car and be done with it. I would have accomplished my goal by working my body and mind for a longer distance.

But I kept thinking about what I would get if I finished the race...if I just ran those extra miles.  Not only would I have accomplished something "good," I would receive a final reward from my effort.

1. The opportunity to run through the finish, where crowds would be cheering!
2.  A medal would be placed around my neck.
3.  A warm blanket would be set on my shoulders (something I couldn't wait to get...it was COLD).
4.  Fuel for my body (bagels, apples, bananas, chips, yogurt, juice)
5.  A massage.

I thought about the rewards of going the extra mile...and the joy it brought to me that morning.  I thought about you...and what more can be accomplish if we all would just go the extra mile.  If we take the good that we do now and commit to be better what amazing things would happen.  Whether we decide to show more patience in our homes, write that card of appreciation we have neglected to send, give of our time, or donate the extra we have...the rewards are great!

And the greatest reward is the joy we will feel in our hearts when we truly give of ourselves.

I see Sandy and Rich running that extra mile each day as they care for their precious Brittany.  I want to be just like them when I grow up.

You do so much good...thank you.  I am now only $100 from my goal!

Marathon Before the Marathon

(First of many view of our Nation's Capitol)

Yesterday I ran a marathon. I meant it to be a 22 mile run before Boston to get my feet, legs and mind ready for the big race in three weeks. THREE weeks?! Did I just write that...the big race is in only three weeks...YIKES! And after yesterday's decision to just go ahead and finish the final four miles of Nation's Marathon in Washington DC...I am can finally say, I am totally READY!

Did you hear that Brittany...I am ready to run Boston...just for you!

So to all of you out there who haven't sent in your donation (we are so close to reaching our goal...under two hundred buckeroonies to go) now is the time. By waiting until the last minute, you actually get a little more help in making a decision as to what time you think I will finish my marathon.

Here are the facts from yesterday's race:

1.  The temperature was ideal for running.  A lovely chill in the air...perfect!

2. I started out at a very comfortable pace with my friend Stephanie who was running only the half.

3.  At no point in the race did I even come close to hitting "the wall," wanting to quit or experience pain (that has never happened in my past 8 marathons).

4.  I ran a negative split (that means I ran the second half faster than the first...by almost 10 minutes).

5.  I am really not that sore today (usually I am unable to walk without pain) and am thinking about running tomorrow.

I tell you all of this so you can get your guesses ready!

My time (with a few photo stops, bathroom stops, phone calls and a shoe tie):

3:41:56

(My friend Stephanie and I before the race)

Remember this was a training run. Usually when I run, there is no talking, stopping and a high level of pain the last few miles.

So what is your guess?!

Send in your donation today and make your prediction!

Buck Up and Move Forward!

So today I had planned on running a 20 miler (yes, 20 miles. That is a little requirement when training for a marathon...running 3 or 4 of those) with a good friend of mine.  Last night, she told me she was unable to join me.

I thought to myself, "You have got to be kidding me. I have to run 3 hours alone?" 

I decided to buck up and move forward (after sending out a plea to all of my friends...no one was available). I had done this before and it could be done.  And then realized I still hadn't found my Garmin watch (I lost it a few weeks ago and it is a MUST have when I am running long distances.  It keeps track of my miles, time, and pace).

I thought to myself, "You have got to be kidding me. I have to run in circles now?  In order to keep track of my distance, I will have to run only where I know the distance! Stink.

I decided to buck up and move forward.  That night I mentally figured out my route for the next day.  I tried to plan something that sounded "fun."  I was actually excited to give my plan a try.  But I had no one to talk to and my music playlist on my ipod was something I had heard over and over again and I absolutely didn't want to hear it. If I had to listen to "Forget You" again...

I thought to myself, "No music?! Why didn't I get a book on tape or something for a situation like this?" 

I decided to buck up and move forward. I asked my husband to put a playlist together for my run.  And when I went to listen to it today...man oh man was it good. I was boppin' and beepin' and my pace was feeling the grove too.  But after 2 hours of running (and 6 more miles to go), I wasn't feeling the grove.

I thought to myself, "No one would know if I headed home.  Why am I doing this again?  Man my legs hurt!  Six more miles is going to take forever!"

I decided to buck up and move forward.  I knocked out 3 more.  And with the final 3 miles passing along ever so slow, I began to think of why I was running this marathon.  Sweet little Brittany, at home, unable to walk, talk, eat...to live on her own...entered my mind.  I am able. I will finish what I started.

And I did.  20 miles, 2 hours and 40 minutes of running.  Aches: Check, Pains: Check, Sweat: Check

Feelings of accomplishment: CHECK AND CHECK.

Thanks Brittany for pushing me...

She is Totally Cool!

I showed this picture to Ethan the other day and told him that Brittany was home from getting her new trach.  I explained that with this device in place, Brittany would be able to breathe not only from her nose and mouth but her neck as well.  He was amazed and said, "So if I plug her nose and cover her mouth she can still breathe?" 

I said,"Yes, she can."

He then replied, "She is totally cool mom!"

Indeed, Brittany is totally cool sporting her new trach.  After spending over a month in the hospital, the family returned home last week!  We missed you guys so much!  Brittany is doing well adjusting to her fancy "neck ware" and Sandy and Rich are as usual, becoming experts in everything trach.

As the Boston Marathon draws near (on April 19), please make your donation to NBIA.  We are inching ever so close to our $2620 goal...will you help...you would be totally cool!

I Can See the Light!

The Boston Marathon is only 7 weeks away!  I am so excited to run the race this year.  I am a total numbers kind of gal. If I am scheduled to run 8 miles, I run 8 miles. If I get back to my house and my Garmin reads, 7.89, I will keep running up and down our street until my watch reads exactly 8 miles.  I rarely stray from my schedule. If I have to get in 40 miles in a week...I do it...even if I am running in the dark.

And after plugging in the latest donations (and times), I realized we are only 341 dollars from our goal of raising $2620.00 for NBIA.  I can totally SEE THE LIGHT!!!  (I know there are still a few more checks at the Leap Home...we will get those in as soon as we can).

Many of you have expressed an interest in donating to the Boston For Brittany Fundraiser...and we are approaching race day.  We need you!  Please be sure to get in your guesses and money before April 18.  I am happy to take your donations as well (make your checks out to NBIA):

14807 Ashby Oak Court
Haymarket, VA 20169

And for those that have already joined in the giving, Monday, April 18 will be tons of fun as you follow my progress via the internet (there are usually 5 or 6 mats I cross over, revealing my progress and estimated finishing time).

So as far as my number obsession goes...there is no way I can be satisfied with nothing less than $2620...please join the fight for  NBIA and help me reach my goal!

All is Well

A quick update on Brittany's surgery yesterday.  Everything went great.  She has been put under sedation for the next few days to be sure her new trach stays in place.  More details to come...

And if you want to keep updated, click here.

Remember to make your donation for the big race in April (today I have to run 20 miles...wish me luck).

Brittany is Beehaving...or is She?

Brittany loves to keep her parents on their toes.  Sandy says that even though she can't speak, boy howdy, she knows how to voice her opinion.  When Rich (dad) leaves for a business trip, she let's everyone know her disapproval simply by biting a little bit more (this isn't biting like a 18 month old...it is the effects of her dystonia that make her muscles, more specifically her jaw, to bite down aggressively causing her extreme pain), keeping mom up a little bit longer and well...just being a teen-ager. (I think it is kind of cute...especially since I have one of my own...that gives me plenty of trouble).

Well, as you know, Brittany was supposed to have her trach surgery last week.  But instead, she decided to go the the ER a few days before her scheduled appointment.  And she thought it would be even more interesting to stay for a few weeks. Now, I personally think she was upset I left for Hawaii. She wanted a little "get away" too... but that is just my theory.

Things have calmed down a bit since I came home :)  They have been transferred to Children's Hospital and her parents have fabulous accommodations at the Ronald McDonald House (Sandy and I are a bit confused why they don't have the Bravo channel though).  And as you know, Sandy and Rich, super parents extraordinaire, are always at Brittany's side...she is one loved little girl.

Her trach surgery is planned for Wednesday.  There is an amazing team of doctors ready to give Brittany the best care during and after surgery.  They will remain there for a few weeks afterwards to train "Doctor Sandy" and "Nurse" Rich in all things "trach-care."

NBIA is one tough cookie.  There is a huge need for more research on this disease.  We can help.  We really can.  Please make your donation as I run the Boston Marathon in Brittany's honor and to help raise money for NBIA.  Every penny goes directly to NBIA.

Beautiful Brittany!

The sun is out...it is a beautiful Sunday.  I came across this picture of Brittany (obviously from this summer from her cute get-up) and just had to share.

Brittany is a beauty.  With so many struggles she continues to bring sunshine to all of us.  After a week of biting, delays in the oral procedure due to a mysterious swelling of her legs, feet and face, a trip to the ER, she is still smiling!

In the next week or so, she will be getting a Trach.  It comes after much thought and prayers from her parents and long talks with her doctors.  Our prayers join yours, Sandy and Rich, as the surgery draws near.

I will keep you all posted.

In the meantime, take a moment to write a check to NBIA in honor of Brittany!  Please include your guess for my marathon finishing time!  We still haven't hit the $2000 mark...please help make it happen!

Hey wait...an update...WE HIT THE $2000 mark!

A Helping Finger

Brittany has had one tough week (so has her mom's fingers, mine for about two hours and Garth's big one as seen pictured).  It was necessary to keep a finger or two in her mouth over the past few days to keep her from clamping down on her tongue and cheek.  I think novices, Garth and myself, did a pretty good job keeping things under control the other day...

Her facial dystonia has been the culprit!  Today Brittany heads to the George Washington Hospital to undergo a procedure to try and find a way to protect her tongue from her unrelenting jaw muscles that send her teeth clamping down on anything in their way (ouch!).

Will you offer your prayers in her behalf as she is put under today?  And keep those prayers coming as the possibility of a trach draws near.

We love the Leap Family...and know you do too.

Remember, the Boston Marathon is drawing near...don't forget to send your donation (and make your guess)!  NBIA needs you.

Just Keep Swimming...

Dory, the happy go lucky fish from the "Finding Nemo" movie said it best when she sang "Just keep swimming," to Marlin when he was under distress looking for his son.

"You know what you gotta do when life gets you down?
Just keep swimming
Just keep swimming
Just keep swimming swimming swimming
What do we do we swim, swim, swim
OH HO HO How I love to swim
When you WAAAAAANNTTT to swim you want to swim..."

Brittany hasn't been feeling well lately.  Her stomach has been giving her problems, waking her up at night.  Of course her parents worry and want to ease her discomforts the best they can.  After many doctors appointments, scans, tests, new medications...nothing seems to be working.

And yet, Sandy and Rich...just keep swimming.  They will not give up.  NBIA needs you...please donate to a cause dedicated to finding a cure for these children who suffer from this terrible disease.

Don't Forget the Little Guys....

I went over to Brittany's house last week and saw this peaceful darling sound asleep on the couch.  I had to snap a picture to capture the feeling of love I had for the Leap Family right at that moment.

She ended up sleeping the entire time I was there...even through her lunchtime feeding.  No Candyland for us...boo!

For today's post, I wanted to share a portion of a letter written by Amanda.  She sent this to Sandy after meeting Brittany last week:

"After meeting Brittany, I began to think.  Cancer is a terrible thing, but there are cures and many people are still able to live great lives.  Clearly, further reserach can always be done and new cures will be found, but when is enough, enough?  There organizations have billions of dollars and will continue to ask for more. Many people, including myself, continue to give in hopes of helping others, but we don't stop to think about other charities that are in need-much more than many of these organizations.

I want to help spread awareness about Brittany and her disorder and help people realize that maybe their money will do more good in other places.  Cancer organizations will continue to need donations, but maybe not as much. I would never discourage someone from donating to a charity which they are connected to but instead encourage them to possible give a little less-and give as well to a cause that needs more.  We have been able to find treatments and cures for so many dieseases and disorders and there is no reason we can't find one for Brittany.  I believe that reaching out to these organizations that have so much and showing them what life is like for Brittany.  Individuals who are sick with cancer (and other more common diseases) may be weak but they can still walk, talk and feed themselves.  Brittany, unable to do these things on her own, cannot live the life that even many cancer patients are able to live. It many be difficult to convince someone who has never struggled to give money, but a person who has been sick and been through the struggle is much more likely to feel what Brittany feels.  Those who are now happy and healthy, know that it is possible to find cures, but not without much research and donations to fund that research.  I am sure that many of these people are able to sympathize with Brittany and realize that it is time we start to look for cures for the lesser known disorders and begin to help those who have bigger needs."

I loved what Amanda had to say. Sandy and I have talked about the millions of dollars that are given to charities by corporations, the government and private sponsers.  And although we realize that more people suffer from cancer (and other more common diseases), there are millions that suffer from rare disorders as well.  It makes it that much harder to find cures and treatments for theses diseases because there are so many different ones and so few with each one.  Funds are limited on research for each specific disorder...so treatments (even diagnosing these rare disorders) and cures are slowed tremendously.

We will fight for NBIA...no matter how small the number who suffer.  There is one little girl who has a huge cheering section...and we will be heard.

Please make a donation for NBIA research!

Half Way There....

I can't believe the generous donations we have received for Brittany and NBIA!  We are already half way to our goal!

NBIA has a long mountain to climb in search of a cure...and in searching for ways to keep these children alive.

I know many of you have mentioned your desire to donate...please do so today! 

Together we can help Brittany climb her mountain...even if we have to carry her...we will help her reach the top.

By Small Means, Great Things Shall Come to Pass...

I find it a hard task to teach my children the joy of giving.  Our society has been very successful at leading many down the road of instantaneous happiness, making one believe that is what brings true joy. "Giving" is put on the back burner and "getting" is forefront...always simmering...ready to boil!   But I think deep down (at least I hope we do), we as adults, know the difference between a quick dip of selfish happiness and the joy that comes from truly giving of ourselves.

It is that giving spirit I want my children to possess...and I think slowly but surely they are learning.  Last week I was able to watch Brittany while Rich and Sandy went to a movie.  Ashton asked if he could come with me, insisting we play a game of Candyland with Brittany.  Soon after our arrival, the game was set up, Brittany picked our Gingerbread playing pieces and Ashton held the stack of cards close by so he could move not only his "man," but Brittany's as well.

As cards were flipped over and the playing pieces were moved closer to the finish, Ashton was in the lead.  I was nervous that he might get a "bad" card sending him back to the start (you see, he is our "baby" in the family and usually gets what he wants...and when he doesn't...watch out).  Sure enough, just after that thought crossed my mind, Ashton was sent back to the start.  With Brittany in the lead, he looked up ready to cry.  But he didn't. I saw him look at Brittany and he had a change of heart.  He said quietly to himself, "It will be okay.  I can go back."

Brittany did end up winning that game.  Ashton took second and I pulled up the rear in third.  But I know he felt joy with the decision he made to go back to the start without a complaint.

I loved the questions he asked me while we tended to Brittany.  "Can she laugh?"  he said.  "Of course she can," I replied, "As long as you say something funny." 

He immediately told her a knock knock joke.  She giggled (although I think it was out of the kindness of her heart).

Being with Brittany is just a small thing that we do as a family but it is giving us the opportunity to learn great things...things that bring us joy.

My children asked me the other day if they could make their guess for my marathon finishing time. "No," I said, "You must first make a donation to NBIA (which Ethan can tell you just what it stands for)."  They each ran up to their rooms and collected $3 from their piggy banks.  We stopped by on Sunday before church to get a quick picture with Brittany and say Happy New Year.

I know two of the kids gave all they had...

It is "by small means that great things shall come to pass..." that is why we are asking even for small  amounts to be donated.  We want your children to give...of themselves.  It is in giving, they will find joy, the kind of joy that lasts.

Please donate to the Boston for Brittany fund...all donations go directly to NBIA research.