I did it! I had the wildest and most amazing marathon retirement party ever! But first, let me start with this…

I didn’t make my goal time. I aimed for a 4:40 finish. I trained for it, even left some cushioning in my training for a 4:45 minute finish. I ran in temperatures over 100 degrees. I ran in wind. I ran in rain. I trained in the Texas summer heat. I cross trained through Camp Gladiator and followed Coach Sara’s plan each week. I tapered like I was supposed to. I sought chiropractic relief. I altered my hydration and diet, too. In my training, I gained back the confidence to run a 10mm pace for a half marathon. I had the confidence to run a 10:30-11mm pace WITH HILLS. I lost weight and shook off a large chunk of depression.

I didn’t make my goal time. My finish was 5:10:51, a full 11 minutes slower than 7 years ago for my other time of running this.

BUT…

I did it! This race was EVERYTHING I needed from a final race. It was brutal! Why? The conditions were low 40s with 20-30 mph winds. The winds were so high that they didn’t even allow the handcycles to start in Staten Island, cutting off the Verrazano Bridge entirely for them. I opted to walk that bridge, braving the masses, but staying on the side out of harms way, or so I thought. I was pelted with discarded gloves, water bottles, makeshift windbreakers from garbage bags, a race bib (!), a fuel belt, and sweat shirts. I fought against the wind to get this image:

See those white caps. See those clouds? Brrr…(my lungs started wheezing moments after snapping this. Inside I cursed them and said, Not today!)

And we fought through that wind, running against it for about 20 of those miles, and then we were faced with uphill, no sun, tired legs. Before that, though…

I caught those unicorns I’d been chasing for a while!

I sat in that huddle of people to stay warm before the race. Robin Hood, you guys continue to touch my soul!

I stood in my corral waiting for that BOOM of the cannon and Frank Sinatra to belt out “New York, New York” while we ran past.

I nervously chatted with a local gal, a gal from Atlanta, and 3 women from Argyle, Texas! Wow!

I humbly wore the discarded Dunkin Donuts fleece hat that I had to cut a hole out of the top so my hair would fit.

At mile 13 I took a selfie in the sun!

At mile 15.5 I knew I was still plenty strong.

At mile 19.5 I took another selfie in the sun.

My face hurt from smiling so much! I ran strong! I ran my race. I ran with so many strangers cheering me along the way. I ran while my loved ones cheered me on both in person and through social media. I ran for all of them and for myself. The race was what I needed. It was a metaphor, a true test of determination, strength, endurance, and will. I didn’t really hit a wall. My lungs did feel like they wanted to collapse at one point. I lost feeling of my 3rd toe on my left foot around mile 8. At mile 9-10, I ran alongside my Teej! I saw her and nearly knocked her down because I was so happy to see her. I cried and cried, and squeezed so tightly. She ran in the crowd next to me, and when she hit her street, she hollered “Go!” and I went. At mile 11, I saw my Beloved!! He’d landed and made it to me. At mile 13 I messaged my beautiful friend on bedrest, who was cheering me on, texting me messages of support along the way! I hopped on social media at mile 15-16. I saw a few more familiar faces and beautiful souls at mile 17-19! At mile 20, Robin Hood’s block party erupted in cheers when they saw my shirt! I felt like such a celebrity! I had a pinched nerve in my right shoulder starting at mile 21. But I kept right on pushing. I ran to the Asian drummers beat. I high fived one of the rappers who was performing. I high fived as many kids as I could along the way. I held hands with a gal who was running to honor her mother at mile 23---she’d died on October 28th from cancer. I hugged a Swiss guy whose legs were giving out. I was going so fast, I missed My Michael at mile 24, but I saw my Beloved again at mile 24.5.  I put my phone away after that and focused on finishing. I happily ran under the foliage of My park, Central Park. We emerged out of park a bit after 25 and I saw the GM building…Maverick! I’ve walked MANY times to Columbus Circle, time to pick up the pace! (Screw you, lungs, stop sucking air, we have a race to finish!) I spotted people to try to reach and pass and I did. When I hit mile 26, I shouted BRING IT! and took off at an accelerated pace for that last quarter mile. I passed so many people and felt so light. When I crossed, I didn’t cry in my photos. I just beamed with the biggest smile. That was it.

I did it! 5 hours, 10 minutes, and 51 seconds of happy…happy that isn’t artificial, genuine happiness from achievement and support from more than 200 people! All 200+ of you that know me directly who reached out….

THANK YOU, MERCI, GRACIAS, DOMO ARI GATO, DANKE, GAMSAHBNIDA, GRAZIE!!!

The lady who handed me my medal, she was an older woman, and I just stared at her, and asked her for a hug. And she hugged me tightly like my abuela, and told me that she was so proud of me! Thank you strange lady! Thank you for being proud of me and giving me such a hug! And then I sobbed. Big, fat, joyful tears of happiness and sense of accomplishment.

The trek to my room was a journey all by itself. But I got to see my Beloved again before he headed out to the airport. I was able to laugh and recover with My Michael and Gen at a tea place. I was able to talk about the journey with my running friends and hosts after they returned themselves. The next day, I was tight, but I walked around my park for a while capturing engagement photos (yes, I had an engagement photo shoot and it was amazing!!). I had some amazing food, I had a blowout, and then I came home.

I’m tight, but not overly sore. Only my toe is really hurting, but I feel fine. It was a great retirement and the perfect way to say goodbye to my final endurance run. And now, I pass on the torch to everyone else who is able to do so! I will cheer them on!

Coach Sara…you helped me earn every single bit of this race! THANK YOU! Coach Mark, our time so far has been brief, but you helped me, too! Running friends, thank you for pushing me, even when you didn’t know you were. Mom, thank you for throwing me in the deep end and telling me to swim. Daddy, thank you for never slowing down when we raced! Thank you NYC for showing up, like you always do. I know I can make it anywhere!

Swan Song: When you listen to the “shouldn’t”

I’ve always had issues with my spine.

When I was about 4, I wanted to roller skate so badly at a birthday party of one of my sister’s friends. I’d been scooting along the side, holding onto the rail, and at times, holding my mother’s hand. I felt brave enough to try it out on my own, and insisted I was ready. She cautioned me that it would be different, and that I needed to be certain, because I might fall. I told her I was prepared to fall. Off I went. I was doing well, until I wasn’t. I fell on my ass, and broke it---Literally. I felt something crack and it HURRRRRT, but I refused to cry. Why? Because my mother had warned me I wasn’t ready and even then, I had too much pride to admit I was wrong. So I didn’t speak up with she asked if I was ok. I just said that it was a little sore. But it wasn’t just a little sore. I was sore for a long time.

Fast forward to high school and I started to have chronic lower back pain. I was in the throes of hours-long volleyball playing and running each day. We thought it was typical. We thought it was over-exertion. My trainer had me on a strict program of stretching, heat before, and ice after. He strongly encouraged me to consider holding back some. He suggested I shouldn’t attempt a career beyond high school for fear of my future self. I aimed to prove him otherwise. It was just a little bit of back pain. After all, I survived the ligament tears in my ankle and my thumb. They were sore, but I could tolerate it.

I went on to play in college and at a university. I ran even more, lifted harder, jumped, landed, flew, and had more bang-ups than before. I accumulated another 2 concussions, and felt weak because I couldn’t breathe. But I pressed on through the pain, doing my very best to breathe and keep up. I would pop a couple of pink power pills (powerful anti-inflammatory pain blockers) with a 32-oz Dr. Pepper and I was good to go for games.

By the time I graduated, my mother had undergone her first back surgery and had a Rheumatoid Arthritis diagnosis.

I continued to have the back pain, and when I had my first job post-graduation, I visited a chiropractor for the first time. She took x-rays and noticed that my spine was a full inch off of alignment from the lower part of my body. So we came up with a treatment plan that helped me get through the every day, and also got me through my first pregnancy and first marathon.

It wasn’t until after that marathon that I saw an allergist. I was tired of sneezing all of the time, even though that was basically my life for, well, all of my life. It was there that I had a full diagnosis of asthma. I remember the look on her face when she told me, because she wondered how I was able to cope all of those years being as physically active as I was. I chalked it off as to something that maybe got worse with age. Because really, I’m not a super human. It made sense that times were more difficult based on the seasons and my outdoor activity level.

Then there was last year. That fracture, the conversation with the doctors, my chiropractor, processing the diagnosis. The Neuro said I shouldn’t run as much as I do, because of the impact it has on the body. But when I ran the Santa 5K with my 5 year old daughter for her first-ever 5K, when I ran the Cowtown Half with my friend, when I ran the Fairview Half with my family cheering me on, when I’ve had my training runs (in spite of them getting longer and longer)…I’m happier. I’ve found a way to redirect my stress. This is a big deal and quite noticeable because my normal nervous tick of yanking on my hair, well I don’t do it. My bangs have grown out to the longest they’ve been since before I got married. I still had the migraines. I still battle depression feelings. But I kept running.  I pushed through the pain, willing my back to deal. I breathed purposefully, willing my lungs to cooperate.

After the Sprint triathlon (about a month ago), I felt some discomfort in my knee. My current chiropractor, whom I hadn’t seen since March (maybe?), isn’t a sports chiro. I reached out to my running friends for referrals and each of them couldn’t say enough positive things about theirs, so I went in for a visit. I have tendonitis in my knee and my neck bones are reverse of what they should be (this is the BIGGEST reason for my migraines—my bones have been pinching the nerves right there by my brain), but therapy will help to fix that. However, what else he had to say echoed what I’ve heard before—only, this time, I HEARD it and begrudgingly accepted it. In the photo below, you can see how I am not aligned and you can see the limited space between the vertebrae (moderate degeneration—only a matter of time for severe degeneration, which is bone-on-bone).

His words, not to tell me to stop running, but to reconsider the longer distances. He acknowledges what running means to those who run. He suggested I SHOULDN’T run. And this time I listened because I have two smaller ones to consider. One day I would like to run with them, even if it is just a few miles. I expect to have late night dance parties with them. I expect to be upright, cheering them on in anything they are a part of.

So…

NYC will be my last marathon—he said it was ok to finish this training. New York City, my home away from home, the city full of promise, the city who gave me confidence in my body, the city filled with such positive, electric energy…that beautiful city. 7 years ago, the tagline was “Whatever it takes…” and this year, it is “Get your New York On, ” my favorite sign so far is “Get Your Invincible On.” I GET to have my final (yes, I realize it was just my second, but this was the gateway to ultras, to trail running, to others) marathon in one of the greatest cities in the world. New York turns out for a race and it is one glorious celebration! I GET to have closure. I GET to smile and soak in each “Go Bianca!!” one last time. I GET to feel Invincible for 5 grueling and glorious hours. My lungs, my back, my ankles, my knee, my brain, will be pulled by my heart, which has steadily grown because of all of the marvelous well wishes I have received from all of you! I literally hold them close to me, and remember them whenever I feel like I may hit a wall. Physically, I feel stronger than I did the last time I did this.

I will still run, just not for as long of a distance. I will still have an active lifestyle, only, I will consider long-term health more than before. I don’t regret going hard all of those years before. Also, I’m grateful that I didn’t know about any of my ailments, because I continued on as if I didn’t know any better and still achieved---without limits or impositions, treated just like everyone else. That suits my personality just fine.

I wanted to say thanks to everyone who has given me their words of encouragement and those who I’ve been able to lean on and cry. Y’all have lifted me up and inspired me. I’m truly grateful!

I have asthma. I am an athlete.

Hello, I’m Bianca. Some of you know me already. Many others don’t.
Right now I’m training for my second marathon, slated to happen on November 2, 2014. I live in Texas and it gets incredibly hot. This summer, we’ve been lucky and it hasn’t been as bad as it typically is. That isn’t to say that it hasn’t had hot days. Those hot days really affect me. I have had fits of frustration and anger in the middle of my runs. I don’t like having to stop mid-run.

I have asthma.

What does that mean? What is it like? Well, for me, it is like not being able to get a breath. Imagine having a coffee stirrer straw in your mouth, then go out and sprint, breathing only through that straw, not using your nose. Sometimes, attempting a deep breath isn’t possible. Sometimes, you get the deep breath, but then the coughs start. Always, the next day the lungs are sore. I have a love/hate relationship with my inhaler. My inhaler lets me run. It opens the pathways and makes me feel strong. But the next day, my lungs feel like they’ve taken a beating from the inside by a gaggle of angry parasites throwing tiny stones. I arch my back several times, trying to pop it and open the chest cavity. I lace my shoes, and hit the pavement again.

I am a runner.

I have the same questions as many other people when running. We run around like hormonal teenagers, shifting moods in an instant. Why am I doing this? What is the point? It is so hot. It is so early. It is so cold. No, it is really early! Look, people are just getting home from their nights of revelry. My feet hurt. My feet are covered with blisters. My feet are covered with thick callouses. My knees hurt. I love these tiny bags of ice. Oooooh…a sale on running gear. This sports bra is fancy. I love the way these purple leggings feel. This unicorn tank top really allows great air flow to stay cool. I LOVE my purple spibelt. Oh wow, deodorant DOES work when you don’t have Glide. These socks are so fun. These socks suck, they give me blisters. No, these shoes give me blisters. Puff…I love my inhaler. My spibelt really does fit my inhaler, phone, chapstick, travel glide, and bloks wonderfully. Ahhh…my body hurts. It’s so early. Meh, it’s only 6 miles. Gahhh….4 miles again? I hate hills, they suck. Oooh, yaaay hills, they make me stronger. Fartleks? giggle Speed work…noooooo!!! Oh goody, speedwork day! Is it raining outside? I will wear my trail shoes. Where are my yurbuds? I need my yurbuds! Dangit, I don’t have connectivity to Spotify. Download your running mix from Spotify. Oooh, a running skirt? Is it in purple? I will never forget my glide again. Those shorts suck. I chafed so hard. Oooh, are those shorts in purple?  I wish my inhaler came in purple.
Somewhere in the middle of all that, you get the calm. You get the clarity. For me, it is like the world hits pause and all I hear are the cadence of my steps, tick-tick-ticking against the ground below me. My mind’s eye joins my seeing eyes, and I can pay witness to all of the splendor my maker has created before me. My lungs work. My legs are strong. My demon-voices leave my brain, replaced with the memories of cheers from my loves. My heart is happy. I give gratitude for I am able to run when others cannot. For them, I offer up my run. For them, I consider so much. Then I see my babies, my two daughters who look to me for guidance. I run for them. I see my Beloved. I run towards him, chasing him. He never gets so far ahead that I can’t see him. He somehow knows the wheeze and will slow. Quietly. Slowly. He waits for me, patiently, gives me an encouraging look. At the end of the training run, I get the high five reward. During races, each high five I get reminds me of that reward high five. I keep going. Each “Go Bianca” I think of my mother, my best friends, my sister and brother, my father, my daughters, my family, my friends. I keep going. My lungs hurt, my legs hurt. I keep going. Sweat stings my eyes, tears will stream down my face. I keep going. “Bianca fight never dies” is what I tell myself…even when I have to stop and walk. I keep going. “Hills are made for conquering” is what I tell myself…even when I have to pause at the top to catch my breath. I keep going.

I keep going. I keep going. I keep going. I am an athlete. I keep going.

(me on top of my favorite rock-hill in Central Park in Manhattan)

******************
This runner has an amazing write-up for running with asthma: http://www.lifesawheeze.com/p/running-with-asthma-101.html
I’m raising money for Robin Hood again! As of today, I’m $15 shy of $2000!!! I’m so humbled. Feeling generous? https://www.crowdrise.com/RobinHoodNYC2014/fundraiser/biancasias
Leave me a comment with a word of encouragement. I will carry your words with me in my heart when I run. And may literally carry them with me in a printed out piece of paper to keep going.

Bianca's NYC Marathon Experience Part 4

I know, I know, you've been patiently waiting for the rest. Here's some more...

Mile 13 was staring me in the face. Honestly, when I was at this point, I thought, Wow! I'm at the halfway point and I would've been finished by now. I'm gonna rock in the White Rock Half! High five to myself!

When I came upon the Pulaski Bridge , runners all around me were taking separate assessments. Some were struggling to walk, others were running their pace, and the rest of us were simply walking and taking the whole experience in. All of the bridges were really quiet. They didn't allow people to linger on the bridges to cheer on the entrants, so all you could hear was shuffling feel and the conversations from the runners.

I took this time to open my pack and pull out a few index cards. Immediately I recognized Lindsey's handwriting. She wrote two thoughtful notes and I remembered that just two evenings before, on Halloween, she and Hayden were hanging out in our living room. That moment seemed like an eternity ago! Next up, was Danika's note that Don had printed off. Oh no...not the waterworks just yet! I fought them back and read the notes from Don. He actually put together a couple by proxy from Carol and Will. My legs were impatiently wanting to run, but I told myself to hold off until the end of the bridge. I read his notes that he'd written on behalf of Guapo and Mari. Tears flooded my eyes and it became very difficult to breathe normally. My nose was running, so I carefully tucked the notes back in my pack and pulled out the next set from Julie. Julie, thank you so very much for your thoughtfulness. I was so very, very blessed to have read your words and the effort you took to put together that packet. Well, needless to say, I've dug out my hole punch to make a booklet of your notes and they are going in my marathon shadowbox! Each note was laminated with packing tape. She'd printed off pictures and mounted them on lavender paper. On the back in colored ink were quotes and verses. Each pictures was carefully selected with a specific purpose in mind. They were sweat proof, but more importantly tear proof! The tears were falling like fat rain drops from a cloud on a sunny day. That last picture of Don and I in shadow...well, you were right: Don was waiting for me and I had to get to it!

Two women stopped me to ask if I was ok. I smiled at them and just nodded my head while pointing at the letters. Simultaneously, they let out a huge, "Awwww....!!!" I tenderly held the notes to my heart and waved goodbye to the women. I tucked the letters back into my back and opted to save the rest for the next bridge. I noticed the photo of Margie that I wore in the Komen 5K a few weeks earlier. I said a prayer for her, and her strength flooded my entire being and in true Margie fashion, my body got going. She's not one to rest on her laurels to wait for something to happen. She makes things happen.

Mile 14 came along. Only 6 more miles until I see my family. I felt so alive and carefree. I had wings to fly and my legs felt so lightweight. Next thing I knew, my arms were outstretched like JET from the Mavs and I was fly-running just like when I was a kid, playing in Grandma's garden. Whoosh, whoosh were the sounds in my head as I glided side-to-side (where did all the people go?). This was just the stretch I needed! I saw a little abuelita and abuelito on some steps waving. I waved back and hoped that my greeting flew all the way to El Paso. I was in Queens, the 3rd burrough of 5.

Mile 15 was filled with lots of turns in an industrial area. This is Daddy's mile and I feel good. Run Bianca Run! I focused and it was during this mile that I saw a small gang of homeless people cheering from the sidelines. Even the homeless can make time to cheer! How awesome is that? There were more water stops that usual and I wasn't sure why, until...

The Queensboro Bridge, aka the 59th Street Bridge...mile 16. This bridge broke some people. Seriously, it was long and eerily quiet. Lots and lots of shuffling feet. I paused at the top of the bridge and snapped a photo.

See my shirt? I've managed to lose the "I" along the way. Oopsie! After this shot, I read more letters! I looked over the words I'd written down from Ashley. Earlier in the week, I had an IM conversation with Catherine M. and I'd written her words down on an index card. She gave me a really great quote that I had to have! I read all of Ada's notes on red construction paper. They made me cry and I didn't care. This was 100% raw emotion, this is what living is about. And my favorite: BIANCA FIGHT NEVER DIES! I didn't know it at the time, but that phrase became my mantra. I opened my sister's letter, but couldn't read it. I knew it'd break me down, heck, just looking at the pictures made me tear up (and makes me tear up as I think about it!), but just touching it, I knew I had her strength. I put them all back in my pack and I was upon the descent, so time to run some more! I saw a large pile of hay bales and wondered, man, I could be running so fast that on that turn, I'd NEED those hay bales. LOL! Not really, but I was traveling pretty fast. And then it happened. The quiet went to REALLY loud hoots and hollers! We were in the city! So very, very many people cheering and I thought of my friends. Cheers to all of you guys!

The bottom of the bridge was mile 17 and it flew by like a blur, much like the time that I spend with Jeev. You have such a great time with him that 3 hours passes like 5 minutes!

At mile 18, there was the First Avenue Baptist Church choir in dress robes singing a BEAUTIFUL gospel tune. My Lord Jesus filled my soul and I gave praises to HIM. I mean c'mon!! How often can someone say that they've been serenaded by a full choir while running in one of the greatest cities in the world. Talk about surreal!

At the end of Mile 19 was another bridge: Willis Avenue Bridge. This one was interesting because it was comprised of grate like materials and covering the grates was orange carpet. It was a strange feeling on my legs, but I didn't mind. I actually ran this bridge because it wasn't much longer that I'd see my Beloved and family. Fly feet fly!!

"Welcome to the Bronx, Bianca!!" Mile 20, where is Mari-moo? I saw the giant TV screen at the Robin Hood block party. Everyone was wearing bright green shirts and pounding their thunder sticks along to the beat as Eye of the Tiger blared in the background. Yes, yes, yes!! But where was my family??? I paused to whip out my cell phone and called Don. His familiar voice ignited my already palpitating heart. We're just around the corner, babe. Come find us. Sure enough, there they were. Don didn't see me, but I flew into his arms. Unaware of the tears streaming down my face!!! I love you, was all I could say when I gave him the hug. I swiftly kissed him and my baby.

I ran over to my mom gently perched in her wheelchair, rocking her white sunglasses! I hugged and had to go. I was a ball of tears and happiness. I waved goodbye, while the police officer in the following picture beamed at me. He hollered, GOOD LUCK BIANCA!! I glanced down at my watch. I was one minute off pace from coming it at under 5 hours. Holy cow! I think I can do it. I can make up 1 minute. ONLY 6 MILES TO GO!!!

Seeing my family ignited something inside of me, because I started to open it up. This is just like my early morning runs. I can to this. Time to run with my heart! I crossed the Madison Avenue Bridge into Harlem. Mile 21, I was in Harlem and let me tell you that the smell of BBQ coming from the white tent in the distance was HEAVENLY. I secretly wished that someone would hand me a chicken leg. ha ha! Harlem was my 2nd favorite place to run in!

Mile 22 was a long, wide, and beautiful downhill just upon Central Park. I felt the love from the city and I was on a HIGH. People all around me were starting to waver. I felt like I was in a good place and I knew I could meet my goal! Loudly, people were yelling, Go Bianca! You can do it, Bianca! Looking good, Bianca! I swear I heard Ada screaming from Dallas.

And then there was mile 23. I told myself, only 3 more miles to go, but everyone around me was falling, stumbling and fading. This woman next to me was hyperventilating and out of nowhere came someone who loved her. He struggled to carry all of the signs and cameras, but he ran next to this woman. He was lovingly yelling in her ear. "Don't you give up! Don't you give up! You only have 3 more miles. This hill is NOTHING! Only 3 more miles. Think about your kids. Think about how long you've been training. You can beat NY!" I needed to hear that. I was fighting that hill. And so I picked up my legs and mustered up the energy to yell outloud (because frankly I didn't care who was listening), BIANCA FIGHT NEVER DIES! I bared down and focused. This is the last 5K. After this, I will own the streets of NY. Bianca Fight Never Dies. Bianca Fight Never Dies. Bianca Fight Never Dies. Over and over I repeated it in my head.

All of mile 24, I said it over and over in my head. I prayed for strength. And then I saw the Texas flag, it reminded me Ashley. I threw up my guns up! And this woman called out to me. You're from Texas, right. I saw your Double T earlier. I reached up to touch that worn out piece of athletic tape that still dangled from the safety pin. She was from Lubbock, running in her 8th marathon, but her first NY. She told me that I looked good and was surprised to hear that this was my first marathon.

We hit the drink stop at Mile 25, but kept running. Together we chatted, when she told me: "Take off. If you can run, then run!" Finish. I glanced at my watch and I knew it would be close. I asked her if she minded and she said "No, go run your race!" It was a bit of a downhill and the fall foliage in Central Park was beautiful. The oranges, reds, and browns passed by in a blur. I waved bye and came upon these two friends.

One was struggling and the other was encouraging him. They were African American and looked like they were football players. I jokingly punched the one guy in the arm and told him, "Don't you give up on your friend! You get him going!" I glanced over my shoulder and stared at the one who was struggling. "C'mon! Don't you let me beat you! Don't you let me beat you!" He picked up the pace! And that's how it went for the last bit. Us leapfrogging.

400 yards to go! Bianca Fight Never Dies. My legs are screaming at me. I look at my watch and I can do it. I have 6 minutes before the 5 hour mark. Get it in gear, Bianca. Run Bianca Run. 300 yards to go. Bianca Fight Never Dies. Bianca Fight Never Dies. 200 yards to go...Bianca Fight Never Dies. I'm running against the clock. My buddies open her up and they sprint like gazelles. 100 yards to go. They throw up their Kappa sign to the cameras. Bianca Fight Never Dies! I throw up my guns! I cross that finish line and tears are streaming down my face! I did it. I did it!! I did it!!!!!!

4:58:37...officially. 1 minute and 23 seconds to spare.

Someone draped the medal over my neck and directed me over to the photo booth. I smiled, face puffy, and I felt this accomplished just 9 months before when I met my daughter for the first time.

Then, they draped the foil around my shoulders and I felt like royalty, no, like supermom and this was my magic cape. It truly was a magical experience, unlike anything I'd ever done in my entire life. I could write more, but this is where I'll finish the race portion. I heart NY and I love you all who supported me!

An epilogue to come...

Bianca's NYC Marathon Experience Part 3

"Que Viva Mexico, Bianca!" someone shouted as they proudly waved the Mexican flag. I excitedly waved at them and snapped a shot. Mile 2. Man, I wish that Don could be here with me. I know he'd love to see all of this.

I was happy to get into the neighborhoods. I wasn't sure if I was thirsty yet, but I remember Chris, my yoga instructor, telling me that I needed to hydrate every 15 minutes. I'd made a mental note to drink at every mile stop and to try to eat along the way. There were so many happy faces, rooting you on.

Miles 3 - 5 went off like a blur. I just couldn't get over how beautiful Brooklyn was. I loved all of the houses and trees and oh, especially the people. I kept staring at the landscape, thinking about A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. I'd never visited this area before and I must say that my imagination was accurate based on Betty Smiths' description. I stared through the crowds faces doing my very best to pick out my co-worker Gen's face out of the thousands upon thousands smiling back at me. By mile 6, I'd pretty much quit looking and started staring around at the masses.

At the 5K marker, there were more series of BEEP, BEEP, BEEP, BEEPs, signaling our chips sending the notices out to the masses. I thought of my family that was tracking me and wondered what they were doing at that moment. I happily took my water and Gatorade Endurance. I toasted to Chae, since this is her mile.

At mile 4, I snapped a photo of White Castle. I chuckled thinking about the movie Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle. LOL. Silly, I know. I also snapped a photo of a family cheering us on. I immediately thought of my family and my aunts and uncles and cousins. I could see their faces standing there and cheering me on. I got a little choked up thinking about them and remembering their struggles. I pressed on.

At mile 5, I saw a more eclectic group of people. I took an orange from a man who held out a plate of the juicy fruit. I happily took it and had sticky fingers later. I didn't care. I'm RUNNING THE NYC MARATHON!! Woot! Michael and Marco would be cheering me on!

Mile 6 and I'm passed by a man who shouts out, WOOHOO!! Only 20 more to go! His buddy nailed him on the arm and scolded him for saying such things. "Why say that?? You should say something like, 4 more miles until we get to 10 or something else. Not that!" He was so upset at him and I leaned over and gave the guy a high five. You have to keep it light hearted and fun. No sense in rushing through it. This mile is for Will, and so it was fitting that not only did I share a high five, but this was to another Asian man. I was really high fiving Will!

Mile 7, once again, I leapfrogged this lady and her friend. They seemed to sneak past me when I slowed at the water stops. I tried to make small talk with them, but they seemed more interested in keeping to themselves and so I didn't press any conversation. Brother was all around me. This was the first mile where I saw people lingering on porches, drinking the time away. I loved seeing them hanging out and I knew that if there was a marathon off of Brother's steps, he'd be up by that point (close to noonish), toasting the runners. I caught the eye of a particular group and they hollered, "You can do it, Bianca!!!" I yelled back, "Cheers to you!" and with that, they lifted their glass and took a chug.

Mile 8, I saw a sea of people and perched behind them were happy and cheerful firemen. They kept shouting things like, "Lookin' good, Bianca!" I couldn't help but blush a little bit and think, wow, Danika would enjoy their remarks too. I mean, after all, who doesn't love a fireman? It was at this mile that all 3 course colors joined together. It wasn't nearly as congested as I anticipated it would be. Can you imagine 3 major veins joining a main artery? But the transition was smooth. After the rest stops, however, my sneakers would go click, click, click on the pavement as a result of all of the sticky electrolytes in the Gatorade they handed out.

Miles 9 - 12 faded together quickly. There were more bands along the way, the people seemed more alert as I passed by. And I kept thinking about those that supported me. I even paused to take in a banana. I was careful to toss the peel to the side near some other trash, ensuring that no one would accidentally slip on it. I was grateful for all of the spectators and their many gifts they offered to us runners. I don't know if they knew how helpful they were to us. Oranges, bananas, leftover Halloween candy, and an infinite amount of high fives and well wishes.

I turned a corner and there it was: MILE 13. Not only the halfway point, but my favorite mile. What do you know, another bridge. I made it this far, so now it was time to enjoy the bridge and read some more inspirational notes.

Bianca's NYC Marathon Experience Part 2

I walked around the village for a while. I was ready to drop off my clear bag. I figured, why not go for a bit of exploration while I was at it. It was really cold, but I didn’t notice it when I started stretching my legs around. There were so many people, so many colors and languages being spoken. Young and old. Men and women. Most everyone was smiling and huddling together. I jumped in line to get my photo taken at one of the official booths and immediately before me was a group of 25 from Guatemala. They’d all traveled there together, smiling and wearing their matching outfits, with their names across their chests. I felt rather naked when I walked up to take my picture. I didn’t know anyone else, and so the photo would be just me. It was fine, though. There was a small man from China who watched over my sack and fleece overlay while they snapped my pic. He was missing a couple of teeth, but was friendly just the same. His face lit up when I thanked him by saying, “Xie Xie” and bowing my head. I slipped on my fleece and walked on over to the UPS trucks in the green section to drop off my bag. After that, I grabbed a cup of hot tea to warm my hands, then I headed back to the Robin Hood tent in the orange section. When I arrived there, I asked the race coordinator to point me in the direction of the other Maverick’s and she quickly introduced me to David and Ben. David was from San Fran and a veteran marathoner. Ben and I were making our inaugural run together. Ben sat there taping his feet and I asked him if he minded if I used some tape to write my name across my fleece top. He shared and I wrote my name followed by a double T. Strive for honor for sure!

It was time for us to start going to the corrals, so I set off to the green section, corral B. I heard a canon go off and some music in the distance. My heart was pounding, but I knew I had some time since that was the 2nd wave. I checked my phone right quick and saw that I’d received a few more texts and a voicemail. I called and it was my father, in a raspy, yet affirmative voice: "Run Bianca Run." I swelled up with pride. I GOT THIS! We were escorted through a small opening in the chain link fence that separated the corrals and immediately I had to make a break for the bathroom. Last pee stop before we get this thing going. Unfortunately, I picked a line that was moving REALLY slowly and I feared I wouldn't be finished before the start. Fortunately, in a pinch, I can go really fast, and that I did. It was definitely record pace for me! I filed out, situated myself, and the crowd started walking forward. In the background, they were playing "God Bless America." I couldn't contain my excitement any longer. I wanted to shout to the rooftops, while my heart wanted to leap from my chest like that alien creature from Alien. Then there it went again. BOOM! I could hear Ol' Blue Eyes singing "New York, New York" and the crowd started moving a whole lot faster. I quickly snapped the official start sign, while everyone one around me was smiling. Sweatshirts and garbage bags were flying every where. I guess they didn't want that extra layer, but I still wore my fleece and gloves. I was still quite a bit chilly. BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP was all I could hear since the Champion Chip timers were singing as we crossed the pads.

There it sat, staring at me, beckoning me for a dance: The Verrazano Bridge. Mile 1. At first it didn't seem intimidating, but I knew that it could totally break me if I let it. I heard Ashley's voice, and Chae's voice, and Clyde's voice, and Frank's voice, and Danny's voice, all in unision, don't start off too fast. Resist the urge to take off. It took everything in me to walk that first bit. I ran the green route, so that meant I was on the 2nd level of the bridge, not the top. It was just as fine, because I wasn't quite ready for the sun to beat down. I clutched my disposable camera in my neon green gloves, walking to the edge of the bridge as hundreds of people zoomed past. My heart beating fast, my legs twitching, begging me to take off. I felt like a snow dog wanting to mush. And just when I didn't think I could take it any longer, a woman jogged past me who lost her glasses. I hopped into the crowd so that they wouldn't be crushed and I handed them back to her. She thanked me and I just smiled. I walked to the edge and snapped the first picture of many to come. I tuck my disposable camera in. I'm feeling warm enough, so I tore off my name from the outer fleece. I ripped off the Double T part and pinned it next to the bottom right safety pin holding my bib number in place. I scrunched up the rest of the athletic tape and pulled off my fleece completely. I said a quick prayer for whomever would receive my fleece. It kept me warm for a few short hours, I hoped it would continue to provide warmth for someone this winter who isn't able to afford such luxuries like a jacket. I tossed it to the side with a pile of other sweaters and off I went. I put on my music and listened to Dolly Parton's "Better Get to Livin'" as I hit the apex of the bridge. No more uphill. I smiled, and faced the city with high hopes. C'mon Bink. I looked over my shoulder as if I could see my sister and I threw a wink in her direction, thinking, "let's race!" and my legs happily bounded on the descent. I glanced at my watch and my pace was spot on from where I wanted to be. Not too fast, not too slowly.

At the bottom of the bridge, the sun replaced the whipping wind and I felt more awake. My hands were beginning to get wet and I hate that feeling, so I tore off my gloves, sent them flying with another similar prayer. They softly landed on a small pile of sweats and headbands. I pulled my headband off and tucked it into my pack. I'm so grateful for having my pack. I glanced up to the distance and already people were gathering on the overpasses ahead. They were shouting and waving signs.

"Welcome to Brooklyn, Bianca!"

Bianca's NYC Marathon Experience Part 1

To talk about the journey, one must begin at the beginning. You all know about the history of how this all came about, so now I’ll recount the day to you. Grab your cozy blanket, a bit of water, and settle in for my adventure.

How Bianca Spent November 2, 2008

I forced myself to go to sleep. Despite the time change, I knew I needed all the rest I could muster up. So with 4 minutes remaining in the Tech game against #1 ranked Texas, I forced myself to sleep, using the lulls from the game noises to calm my nerves. I inhaled a deep and soulful breath, envisioning myself walking up a bridge on a sunny day.

4:45AM – Good morning, Mrs. Sias. This is your morning wake-up call. My heart was beating rhythmically, slowly, calmly. I stretched like a cat. First the legs, snap crunch, then the back, snap, snap, then the arms, snap, pop, pop, finally the neck, pop, pop, pop. The room was dark and quiet. Everyone slumbering quietly. My mom was the only one who was remotely stirring. My sneakers staring at me, with the orange shoelaces smiling back. Yes, today’s the day!

The doorman proudly smiled at me, and said, “Good luck! I can’t even walk a mile. You can do it!” He hailed my cab and tucked me in, happily waving his well wishes as we pulled away. There was quite a bit of traffic, as the busses lined the streets. Everyone in their running gear, carrying their clear plastic official UPS marathon bag. He dropped me off 7 blocks from the actual meeting point. He said he thought the streets must be blocked off already. I reluctantly got out of the cab, but was a little relieved because I’d been tossed around like a rag doll with every turn.

I proceeded to walk up the street and I happen upon Times Square. I’m in the middle as all of the neon dances around me. I can’t believe I’m really here. I jump on the bus and I get the next to last seat on that first bus. Everyone is half asleep, quiet, getting mentally prepared for what is to come. We’re all running for Robin Hood, and there’s an immediate sense of comraderie. Most of them have filled their clear plastic bags with sweaters, food, sneakers, scarves, thermal packs, and so many other things. I was feeling silly having packed a pair of fit flops, an extra long sleeved shirt, and a glass of water. Hmmm…I guess I should’ve brought a book or even another sweat shirt. Oh well, I have my fanny pack filled with the most important things: cell phone, disposable camera, AMEX and ID, Clif Blocks, Chicken Poop, and the most important thing: my letters!! I had a brief moment of panic and decided to read two. I pulled out Gigi Skip’s and felt energized. Next, I read Michael’s and had tears in my eyes. TOO EARLY FOR THAT BIANCA! I tucked them back in my pack and immediately opened my phone to text Don. Before I could, I read though all of the celebratory texts from friends about the Tech/UT game. The guy seated behind me was quite chatty and I overheard him talking about how very little sleep he got b/c he was watching the game. I asked him about it and he was like, “OMG, that was the very best game I’ve ever seen in my entire life!!!” I told him that I’d fallen asleep. He, of course, shot an incredulous look, but began to recount the last 4 minutes of the game. Play-by-play, I was hyped up again!

The bus took off and we were headed towards Staten Island. I sat there texting Don along the way, him sending words of encouragement. I felt good. I felt awake. I felt alive. Bus after bus, after bus, was trying to crowd into a tiny bit of space. We were shuttled to the drop off area, and sure enough, we walked off and went into the village.

The wind was cold, it whipped against my face, taunting me, challenging me, almost teasing me. I followed the herd of humanity, observing the men falling out of line and heading to the side to pee. In front of the thousands upon thousands, there they were, huddled next to one another, relieving themselves in public like it was a normal occurrence. We were shuttled to the different areas and I just fell in line with everyone who was getting their bagel and water and fruit. I snagged a cardboard carton to flatten out to sit upon in the tent. I was lucky because we had a tent and our own private porta potties. We didn’t have a generator, but there were plenty of people huddled in there. I was quiet, sitting there alone observing everyone. I still had three hours to kill before it was time for me to line up.

I DID IT!!!

Holy cow, it was amazing and emotional and so wonderful at the same time. I met my goal and did it in less than 5 hours (4:58 to be exact!). Slow and steady wins the race. I'm writing a complete race story recap, complete with pictures. I just wanted to post this right quick.

Thanks to:

1. Sam for lovely words of inspiration. Loved that quote & scripture verse. Even though I didn't read it during the race, it inspired me enough to walk miles and miles to the hotel.
2. Carol for your words too!
3. Julie, what a wonderful little package. I read it at the halfway point and was consumed with such raw emotion, that a couple of the women next to me thought I needed medical assistance. LOL! But I tucked them away and kept on running! They were definitely sweat proof.
4. Danika for your words too. Awesome!
5. Ada because you are right, Bianca Fight Never Dies. :)
6. Michael because I didn't break any world records, but I broke some of my own.
7. Don for gathering all of the emails from everyone and for writing out words for Guapo and Mari.
8. Mom for the scripture verse.
9. Lindsey for your words too! Thanks Bish!
10. Jenna for the Zicam. It knocked out that cold I had looming.
11. Jeev, Brother, Will, Frank, Kelly, Camille...everyone else who sent me texts along the way. Awesome!

I saw everyone's faces as I ran through the streets of NY. INCREDIBLE. And thank you to Mike Leach and the Red Raider football team for inspiring me the night before. That was an amazing win!

Miles Dedication

I was reading another blog of a runner who ran a marathon. He placed stickers on his shirt and after completing a mile, he tore the sticker off. Each mile represented a different person (people). This helped him with motivation along the way, to get him through the end of the race. I don't know if I'll physically do stickers, but I did like the mile dedication. I apologize in advance if I inadvertently forgot someone, but I don't think I did. Without further adieu::

1. Samantha, my sister - Mile 1 goes to her because she's always gone before me, being the big sister. She was there for my first steps in life, and she'll be in my heart on race day, cheering me on, encouraging me from afar, and reminding me to not rush through.
2. Don, my beloved - He started this journey with me and encouraged me along the way. Mile two because that is where Don is comfortable running/training.
3. Chae-lynn, my honorary running coach - This is where I'll hit the 5K point. It's here where I'll remember chasing her on that prediction run. It's running after her and hearing of her running stories that inspired me that I had it within me to achieve this milestone. Thank you Chae for the laughs and most of all, for making me aware of the importance of looking good while running. You make it look easy!
4. My Tia's & Tio: Frances, Vicki, and Velo - I know life wasn't always easy for them. I set out to raise money for a cause to fight poverty. They struggled and learned to be frugal. I know their sacrifices for my Mother (because she was the youngest) instilled in her something so great and wonderful, that it's passed on to me. They are incredibly amazing and I dedicate this mile to them. Thanks for always encouraging me to follow my dreams! And Robin Hood thanks you too!
5. My Michael and his Marco - Not too much longer for Michael to run in his relay and I think he's running 5 miles, give or take. Thanks for always being by my side! What a plethora of life adventures we've shared and here's yet another. Marco, who grew up in NY, reminds me of perseverance. His calming words of encouragement will resonate in my body, that and the image of one of his characters from Heaven Forbid(s)! ha ha ha!
6. Will - I'll remember that run we went on and were rewarded with Starbucks afterwards. What a run! Pushing Mari up-hill, listening to Paperboy's Ditty. Gotta nail that nut, boy! You trekked through the mud just last weekend, grinning there at the end. I'll remember your grin and smile.
7. Brother - Seven years younger, nipping at my ankles. I'll remember our walks that we took last summer and it'll be at this mile where I'll pause to smile and throw my guns up and holler: RAIDER....and I know I'll hear a faint POWER coming all the way from Lubbock, followed by a tink, tink, tink from Tink. Yes, your voice and bell are that LOUD!
8. Danika, my little sister from Cali - Woot, woot! I'll get to see you a week later. Such a zest for life, you remind me to remain youthful and vibrant. Your appreciation for the little things is contagious and I plan to really take in the entire experience, so that I can recount it again later.
9. Jessica & Donna - Even though I don't get to see these two very often, they are always there supporting me. Jessica, for the long walk breaks we used to take at your shortest job, EVER! Donna, for always being there. We don't get to talk much, but you are a super mom, always pushing hard for your kids and reserving a bit of time for yourself, which is always important. Thanks for being examples of moms who know the importance of maintaining a balanced sense of self!
10. Carol, my Mother-in-law - Because this is how many miles I ran on our visit a few short weeks ago. Also, because even though she doesn't see it, she's a pillar of strength. An incredible foundation of determination and hard work, that is exemplified everyday in my husband. Thank you for welcoming me into your world with open arms. I can also hear her voice from far away. I know she'll be there as I smear my Chicken Poop on my lips, listening to the race online, if her Internet is working.
11. Camille and Kelly - Gifts from Prince of Peace, I'm so glad to have met them at church. They are true friends. Kelly is an expert time manager, dedicating to get up early to get in her workouts before work. Thanks for sharing the Alaska vacation. Hopefully, I'll be thawed out by now and not thinking of Alaska! And a special shout out to Camille because of those many, many walks we took at Arbor Hills that got the ball rolling on all of this.
12. Mikey-Mo, my cousin from Lubbock and the rest of the 806 kids - That includes his band Perfect Weather for a Stranger. Shout out to Steve-o, Zeke, Isaac, Dena, Josh, Chino, Liz, that whole group of kids crack me up. I know I can finish this race because we've completed many, many long weekends of non-stop partying that went hours and hours of unmentionable debauchery. Thanks for the LOLs!
13. Margie, my godmother and cousin - A certified cancer butt-kicker and a living beacon of hope and strength. I'm halfway there!! You pushed that rock up a hill for months and months and months enduring all of those chemo and radiation treatments. I know I can go through a few more hours of running in your honor!
14. Grandma & Grandpa - Grandma instilled a great sense of creativity, but an even larger sense of adventure. She has the best stories of faraway lands and interesting people. Hopefully, I'll meet a few interesting people along the way where I can chat to pass the time. This mile is dedicated to them and their dancing image that is burned in my mind. I can hear Glen Miller's "In the Mood" playing in my head.
15. Daddy - The race is won by running...It sure is. It all started with the magic socks. Always, always pushing me to go faster, further, longer, to endure despite adversity. I'll be knocking on that wall and I can hear your voice through the masses. Run, Bianca, Run! It's like when I was training in the summers and he'd be walking around the park and I'd do my best to try and catch him. I didn't care how tired I was, I still ran. And even at the end, he wouldn't slow down, but rather increased his stride so I'd have to give a little more. Must give a little more, I know I have a little more. Thanks for sending Momma along!
16. Friends Galore! - Lindsey, Jennifer, Bo, Anwar, Erika, Hayley, Jorge, Jason, Mike, Matt, Tony, Cousin Simon and Stacy, Richie, Rich, Bling, Breeyon Miguel, DAM Mommas (especially Jacki, Elizabeth, and Tracey), Danny (my original running friend, remember 5AM summertime runs?), Diane, Edna, Nnamdi, Shawn, Susie, Sylvia, Tamera, Trish, Troy, Vincci, Aaron...each of them at one point or another brightened my day and made my life ever so much better simply because they were in it. Thank you for touching my heart.
17. Jeev - He gets one all on his own. I plan on pausing for a moment to laugh hysterically, because inevitably when I'm with Jeev, it's a jolly holiday laughfest. Then, I'll immediately think of lots of Economic books, Great Wall, and hanging Christmas lights from my roof and getting stuck. Thanks for the laugh Jeev, and that laughter will fuel me forward.
18. GiGi Skip - Thanks for sending a note of encouragement! Her stories are lovely tales that should be written for many to enjoy. I look forward to lunches and dinners and the conversations we have with her. She's an amazing woman and I'm looking forward to reading her note.
19. Aunt Kathy & Pete - These two siblings have adventures to fill an encyclopedia Britannica. I know where my beloved gets his wanderlust and I'm thankful for that. Cheers to adventures...and purses...and flaming pumpkins being launched from trebuchets!
20. Mari-moo! - I get to see my baby at this mile. She was the reason I delayed the original plan of running in a marathon when I was 30, and my what a good reason that was. Hopefully, the endorphins will kick in when I see her and that will fuel me to the next several.
21. Clyde and the the Plano Pacers - Jennifer, Chrissy, Matt, Frank, Kelly, Rena, Roy, Steve...boy oh boy, I know I'm forgetting some names! Mile 21 goes to you, because Clyde and Matt were there when I ran this distance and OMG...what a rush. I struggled through and they guys were there. Clyde=Inspiration Personified. I'm so glad I found this group and I'm fortunate they helped me with my training.
22. Ada - My Ada...teammate, best friend, sister, innovator, inspirer...I can hear YOUR voice loud and clear. I know I'm going to want to struggle through, but I can hear it. MTXE...Man, how I HATED that phrase, but when you said it, it was better. And then when your girls made WWAD? I guess I'll have to write that in Sharpie on my hand as well. Because she's not one to give up or walk away. I'll be channeling that moment in time where she chased down that mugger and scared the living bejeezus out of him.
23. My online blogging friends - Julie P., Shannon, Nan, Jessie, Lynn Michelle, Jenna, Ed, Perez, Zar, Julie A., Todd, Craig, Bunny, Sherien, Miles, Jessie, Robert...their words entertain me for hours. Why do I need to buy books when I have their words to read, which are more interesting, and better for my pocket book! I'll be thinking of those tales to distract me for these last few miles.
24. Ashley - I'm so very glad that we reconnected. When she and I played volleyball in college, she loved going on runs. Running was an integral part of her life and she would get so jazzed to run. Wouldn't you know it that when I found her, she was running and training for marathon(s). Yes, multiple! Her donation was so very meaningful to me and I can picture her bouncing along in her signature jog. She makes running look like gliding, and while my own contorted way of running is not nearly as graceful, I know I'll "channel my inner Kenyan!"
25. Maverick Folks - Christina, Tsimberg, Gridnev, Tom, John(s), Brian, Brett, Luke, Angel, Xochitl, Crystal, Vickie, Rick, Gen, Paula, Zhanna, Kate, Rebecca, Stephen, Paul, Curtis, Carter, Joe, Anne, Marjan, Brittany, Michelle, Katherine, Laura, Deidre, Evan, and Lee...thank you guys for believing! Thank you for the lunchtime jokes. I need that lighthearted humor to get me through. A special thanks to Catherine M. for the early dialog to help make this dream come true. Mile 25 goes to you, since I'll be passing the NY office as I round that corner for the last bit!
26. Momma - She'll be there cheering for me at the end. Daddy bought her a finish line pass, so I'm sure I'll hear her, as well as see her. Her shrill whistle, enthusiasm, and bits of Spanglish thrown in. Andale Biankeee! You can do it Mamas! Recio, con fuerte! And I'm sure tears will be streaming down my face (much like they are now), partly because of the pain and partly because of sheer elation for the end. Momma may not be able to run, but boy can she work her wheelchair and scooter. I'm her legs on November 2 and I know my legs will be strong enough to get me to the finish. Thank you Mom, for being my inspiration and role model. YOU ARE THE REASON. Love you!

Whew...4 days to go! And when it is all said and done, I can proudly say that I ran longer than the winner. LOL!

and that last .2 is for me, because I'll be amazed and happy to say, I did it!

Ready...

We had such a busy weekend this weekend and it was all pretty amazing. Right now I feel incredibly filthy and as soon as Don gets home, I'm hitting the showers and packing Mari's bag for the trip this Saturday.

It's here already. I can't believe it. I know these next several days are going to whiz by in a hurry, so today's the day to get everything done. I'm so ready and I can't wait for it. Don is gathering your happy thoughts to include in my envelope, which I'll open when I start hitting my wall. If you want to send positive thoughts my way feel free to shoot Don an email with your words and he can print them off. Or, for those of you who actually see me, you can just hand me your words in an envelope and I'll put them in my big envelope to open at that time. So far I've only received two items, but that's ok, I know more will pour in soon! :)

Oh, and a quick sidenote: Mari is suffering from some pretty severe diaper rash. We had to put her in disposables for about a day and a half before we could finish washing up all of her G's. Well, sure enough, she got a rash (just like she did the other times, except then, it was just a mild case that we caught immediately before it turned really angry.) Anyway, it really sucks and We gave her a bath and put on some Boudreaux's Butt Paste. I'm not sure it that will work, but it is definitely clearing up more than it was.) I just feel so awful about it and helpless. What are some of your home remedies? Right now she's wearing a cloth diaper, since I read that will help her breathe more.

Anyway, here are some pictures from the weekend!

Here, Mari is eating a pumpkin bagel from Einstein's. This was her first bagel ever and she just chowed down on it. What made it even more hilarious was that she just took it from me. (As we speak, she's completely FLIPPED her standing activity gym over and is singing and talking away, completely enteraining herself. She's so stinkin' cute and adorable.)
Here she is passed out after a long walk at Arbor Hills. Isn't she angelic? Ahhh...

This is Hayden and his snazzy new sunglasses. He loves looking at his Mommy and I caught her image. Isn't that fun? He wasn't as tired as Mari was after the nap.

Here we are at the Muddy Buddy on Sunday. I'm running on very little sleep, but I'm so flippin' happy! What more could I ask for? Hanging out with my daughter while we watch her daddy swim in the mud? Fun stuff!! Oh, and I must also mention that one of my besties was with me too!

Oooooh YEAH!!! This was after he crawled through the mud pit. Isn't he sexy?

And this is the mud pit that he and Will crawled through. Yes, they were submerged in it!! This was their reward for biking/running 6 miles. ha ha!

That's all! I hope you all had a fabulous weekend. I'll have pics from our pumpkin carving from this year. We'll do those tonight or tomorrow, so hooray for carving pumpkins. Hope you all had a great weekend.

9 Next to an Aussie

This morning I struggled to wake. Last night, I knew that it would be tough. To prepare, I quickly made Mari's lunch: chicken & brown rice with carrots (pureed together), fixed her bottles, placed my clothes out, and attempted to calm myself long enough to slumber for a bit.

At 2AM she stirred and so we gave her a tiny bottle of water and she quickly went back to sleep and so did I. Thanks to Don for getting out of bed, though. I slept for another three hours, nearly, and fought that space between sleep and awake. I had to shake off the sleepies, and boy was that hard. I yanked my running tights on, pulled on my long sleeved Robin Hood shirt, and laced my shoes. My head was bobbing while brushing my teeth. I kissed my beloved goodbye and kissed my baby goodbye. Both were fast asleep and resting. I met up with the group and I was so very, very glad they were there.

it was cold.

Yes, it was so cold that the above statement warranted its very own sentence. It was a nice 44 degrees out. I was ever so grateful for my skinny scarf and Dollar Tree gloves. We IMMEDIATELY took off running. Jennifer, I'd met before, was the friendiest and most awake of us all. Then there was Frank and Gene (I think that was his name). Jenn had remarked how fast Frank was, so I was certain he'd probably take off. Right when we were about to leave, he disappeared, then reappeared again wearing short sleeved shirt and shorts. AYFKM??? Wow...he's hardcore, I thought. I heard him say something to Gene and there was that fabulous accent that I'd heard everyday for week more than 5 years ago.

I was whisked away to Rome. Every day, I walked up the flight of stairs and there was this curly haired friendly young gentleman, smiling at me and greeting the day. He worked the front desk at the Hostel where we were staying. I don't remember his name, but I remember his voice and his face: dark curly hair, blue, blue eyes, a boyish face, and that oh-so-luscious Australian accent.

Anyway, it happened that I was paired to run with Frank and Gene and Jenn were together. I thought, oh well, this cold weather is enough to make me run faster! So Frank and I got to talking and next thing I knew, we were at the halfway point. I hadn't noticed how fast we were going, but at the halfway point we were still sticking to the 10 minute miles and that was with the walking/water breaks. He was here as a consultant, getting somethings implemented. I gathered that he was only here for another month before heading back home to his family. It must be tough to be away from them that long. We continued chatting about cultures, life, and what not. The last two miles, my belly was aching and not cooperating. I prayed to not have to stop at the gas station. I know I can make it home! Frank started talking about Australian football. Similar to our very own football, but different. I was quite intrigued and LOVE learning about international sports. I did a quick search on The Google (ha ha...thanks Jenna for the "W" reference!) and found some delightful eye candy. Next thing I knew, my legs were taking me to the end and I was at home in the warmth.

I took my shower and let the warm water wash away the cold. Again, taken back to that wonderful place in Rome, no, no, no...get your dirty minds out of the gutter! The showers there were quite spacious and made of pink Italian Marble. The shower heads were fantastic there and the water a perfect temperature for me. Since the hostel wasn't very crowded, you didn't have to wait and didn't have others impatiently waiting for you. My showers there are in my top 5 best showers ever!

I love greeting the day in that unique and special way. It's so refreshing and perfect. Only 9 days to race day. If I think about it too much, I literally get sick, but I'm as prepared as I'm gonna be. I feel great and it really is a weird feeling to thing that 6 miles is just a warm-up.

And after I was dressed, Mari awoke in a friendly happy way. I'm so very glad to have my happy baby back! Poor thing hasn't been herself and this morning it seemed like she was back to center. I remembered thinking, oh my...how big she's become! She looks like she went through another growth spurt and she's outgrown ALL but 4 onesies and a few pairs of her fun socks. Looks like I'm going to have to do some shopping soon!

BTW, has anyone listened to the new Coldplay album? I've finally started listening to it (yes, I know I'm behind) and it sounds great. What do you think?

Race for the Cure

On Saturday morning, we woke up pretty early to participate with nearly 40,000 other people to help raise awareness in the 2008 Komen Race for the Cure in Dallas. We were part of Team Maverick, my company's team. I convinced Don and my sister to be on our team and I'm so very glad we could all be there together.

There was an incredible feeling that overwhelmed me when we walked towards the race. I just felt all sorts of tingles and I was surrounded by a speckled sea of pink hats: signs of survivors. So many wonderful inspirational stories surrounding me and I hated that I didn't get to hear one. But just before the race, I was able to read my Godmother's/Cousin's story and wow! Everytime I thought it was a rough-go (especially those big hills and Mari just seemed heavier and heavier in her stroller), I buckled down and pushed harder. Not only because the sun was in her eyes, but I knew that my run up that hill was going to be over in 10 minutes, but for Margie, she had months and months of pain to endure. I could do it. So when I finished the race, I glanced down at my watch and was pleasantly surprised that despite pushing Mari and the hills, I still maintained my goal marathon pace. Whew! What a positive relief!! That was definitely better than last week's effort. With less than 2 weeks to go (and the nerves kicking in overdrive), I'm definitely more confident than I was last week.

Thanks for all of the positive vibes and if you ever have the chance to participate in Komen race, I highly recommend it! Yes, it was crowded, but it was tough to not have a good time. We came home with a case of water, lots of pink lidded yogurts, and a baker's dozen worth of bananas! Oh, and I also got a scarf that I know I can somehow incorporate it in my marathon outfit!!

um....yeah

Where in the world have I been? Seriously, I did such a great job of keeping up with my blog, posting my minimum of 3 times a week, but alas, life caught up with me. It's nearly been a week, so what have I been up to??

Well, I've been nursing an ailing foot. I don't exactly know how I tweaked it and exactly what I did, but the pain is in the arch, on the outside, and sometimes resonates to my ring toe. I thought, hmmm...plantar faciitis, but nope, that wasn't it. My massage therapist says my calves are overworked, probably due to the hills I ran. She did her best to work out the kinks and I did my very best to ease the pain, but sure enough, every morning, I woke up hobbling while my feet woke up. There wasn't the pin and needles feeling, it was an actual "hurt" feeling. Only 5 weeks to race day and I didn't want to be injured. So...I bypassed my long 18-22 miler and opted to rest it. Instead, Mari and I went for a light 7.5 mile jog on Sunday morning while my beloved played golf at the fabulous Craig Ranch. (Which by the way, he said was incredibly amazing and very generous of our friend to invite him to go!)

To reward myself for my run, I headed on over to DSW to browse. I fell IN LOVE with a pair of Chinese Laundry boots. So sassy and fun and I think they are absolutely perfect for NY!! I didn't buy them, I will go later on this week. I told myself that if I still wanted them a few days later, then I could have 'em. How exciting. Best of all, they made my calves look amazing! Bonus: they didn't have that super skinny annoying pointed toe in some other boots that I love, but my wide feet don't work in them. So, yes, these are fairly comfy.

That night, we headed on over to Mass and while it was totally rewarding, I miss going at our usual time and seeing our church friends. Hopefully we'll get to see them in a couple of weeks when we're back in town.

I forgot that on Saturday I was waaaay productive and super creative. I worked on the HOA website, I edited some pictures, and I made some fun happies for my neighbor who is expecting a baby girl. This was my 2nd attempt at a burp cloth and I went a little out of control with the bow-making. I made 2 pinwheel bows and curled about 2 yards worth of ribbon for korker bows. I really, really enjoyed making them and I really don't see myself buying bows for her anytime in the future. We're going to the Tech v. K-State game, so she had to have a purple and white bow. (I know, I know, I'm a die hard Tech fan, but the deal is that our daughter cheers for the home team when we go to an event where the house is divided. Good thing she knows how to do her guns up! Just not on command.) Anyway, here she is modeling her korker bow. How amazingly adorable is she???

In exciting news: we saved over $60 at the grocery store!!!!! Many thanks to my MIL for clipping coupons and sending them and to Kroger for sending us coupons based on our shopping habits. I was skeptical that it would pay off, but man, their coupons saved us a TON of money!! It was awesome. We saved 30% (yeah, we buy a lot of groceries) and that was the most we'd ever saved on our bill. Needless to say, I was stoked and so was Don. That savings will help to pay for our fancy schmancy date coming up.

Also, the day before yesterday, the house across the major street from us (the alley, the street, then the other alley) was ON FIRE!!! There were a million fire engines, police, and ambulance there. We saw the fire glowing through the trees and could hear them using chainsaws on the roof. The smoke engulfed our backyard and most of the alley too. It was exciting and scary. I really felt bad for that family and I hope they were ok.

Hmmm...what else. Oh, and my neighbor had her daughter. Welcome to the world baby Ava!! She had her at home in the water and I actually talked to her and baby and mom are doing well and mommy looks REALLY great! She was 8lbs, 6 oz. Congrats Jodi!

Mari Update: She's a bonafide climber!!! Seriously, she climbed up her little playhouse slide at school. She's figured out how to climb onto her chair, balance and climb up onto the ottoman, then onto our couch, then the top of the couch. She's so fast and quite the little daredevil. She has an incredible grip on things too! She starting to sign "hungry" with much more frequency. She loves going to her school and totally loves her friends there. This week a new baby started and he's quite colicky. Thank God Mari wasn't a colicky baby. She's actually had a tough time dealing with the screaming baby, but she isn't the only one. All of the others are trying to adapt just the same. Oh, and speaking of my craftiness...I made her a homemade wubanub. Don had an original beanie baby ocotopus. It is bright and fun and she loves it. I sewed her pacifier on the end of it and she seems to really enjoy it. She doesn't have a preference for this one or her frog yet, but she seems to enjoy it just the same. So that's good. Oh, and she really likes picking up her little cereal bits of food. I'm totally impressed!

That's about it. That's what I've been up to, that and lots of catching up at work. It's been really busy there and totally helps the day go by so I don't miss her so much. Don and I are using the Cozi.com calendar to help stay organized and so far we are enjoying it. If you haven't heard of it, it is basically an online calendar to help you stay organized. There's a cool feature where you can send a message to your phone or even your grocery list! Love it!

As far as running, I think another day of super rest and I should be fine. I ran about 3 miles today and it felt good, but my foot is still tender. I'm going to opt out of the 6 mile run and hill training session to nurse it. Don made a good point: Do I want to train more, or do I want to run injury free on marathon day? I opt for the latter. I got my official handbook in the mail yesterday and it's all so real. Wow!! I can't believe it. Seriously, 5 weeks to race day and I can't wait. There's still time to donate if you so desire: http://www.biancavalenciano.com.

Have a great weekend and go Tech!! (p.s. I'm getting my hair done tomorrow, I can't wait.)

monday...

Yesterday at Oktoberfest, Mari was tired of sitting in the stroller, so I put her in the body carrier. I love wearing her. The only drawback is that when she faces out, I can't see her face. She was cranky because she was hungry, but more of it probably had to do with she was bored and hot. Anyway, I fed her the bottle and she kept turning her head. I thought she was just distracted. My friend Matt caught this photo of her. Isn't it funny? We were watching the flea circus, while we determined a plan of attack for the rest of our food consumption.

Oh, and on our way out I won a free pass to see the screening for Eagle Eye. We won't be able to make it after all, but it was still pretty cool to win. You had to pick up 3 cups. If you found at least 2 ping pong balls under the cups, you won a prize. I did. It was just like playing in Vegas!! ha ha.


Also of note, I made the big donation this morning. In my quest to raise money, I think I did a pretty good job from some very, very generous people. Anyway, in my photo shoots, poker tournament, happy hour, and general donations from family and friends, the cash total was $888. Actually, it was $880, but I added the extra 8 because I like fun numbers like that. I think I may have reached my minimum goal of $5K, but I won't know until the end of the week. I have until October to get to that point, but it is nice to know that I'm probably already there at the end of September. It makes me feel like I really accomplished something.

And a real quick 5 question quiz:

1. Where were you 10 years ago?
   Goodness...that seems like a while ago, huh? Fall 1998...that would put me in Kingsville, playing volleyball with one of my very best friends in the whole wide world. That year was a very difficult year for me, but it taught me that I was much stronger than I gave myself credit for. My family was going to always be there for me, no matter what. I needed to do something with my life that I truly loved, not what I felt was expected of me. (oh and Julie, my last game ever was played at ACU that year. interesting...)
2. What is on your to-do list today?
   It is Monday, so I have a lot of catching up to do. I need to enter hours here at work, make several appointments, write up a project plan discussion, follow up with some of my documents, and head home. It is my day to get Mari, so we'll hit up the grocery store on the way home if there is time. If not, then I will settle in to watch our favorite Monday night shows: The Big Bang Theory, How I Met Your Mother, Two and a Half Men, followed by Monday Night Football. (early to bed of course, for my training run tomorrow)
3. What would you do if you had a billion dollars?
   Obviously, pay off our mortgage and student loans. Secure enough money for Mari and future children to live comfortably (but not tell them). I wouldn't quit my job, but I'd see if they'd let me work part time. Helf out my family. Buy a vineyard and build our dreamhouse (complete with all of our favorite rooms, Don!!). Then we'd start with the philanthropy: Gifts to Texas Tech and K-State, Money to the church, Sizeable endowments for teachers in public schools who put forth great efforts into our future, Anonymous donations to various other charitable organizations, and then set up an Endowment Fund for kids who have the desire to go to school, but don't really have the means. I know several good kids with the world of potential, but they just need a little extra nudge and I know this would help. Oh and take my sister away on a fabulous girls trip like we've been meaning to. So many things you can do in this world!
4. Where are five places you've lived?
   Lubbock, TX (born and high school and some college)
   Amarillo, TX (elementary school years)
   Lewisville, TX (middle school years)
   Vernon, TX (early college years)
   Plano, TX (married years)
5. What are your bad habits?
   Obsessing over minutae
   Yanking on my hair when in deep thought or frustrated
   Scratching when I'm sleeping, thus leaving scars on my legs
   Did I mention I obsess over the little things??

okay, I tag Jenna, Shannon, Chae, and Julie Alvarez

Poker Tournament

The poker tournament was a success. I raised $500 for the cause and everyone seemed to have a great time!! By the end of the night, I was EXHAUSTED and my feet were doing some serious cramping, but it was totally worth it. Many, many thanks to Xochitl and Joe for allowing us to use their home. To Brett for his help in keeping the time, setting up the chips, helping me prep the blinds, and for the general encouragement. And to Eugene and Don for helping with setting up and prepping the tournament in general. Overall winner: Cindy Tsimberg. She prevailed over my husband, but that's ok.

We all agreed that we should do it again another time!

Tour des Fleurs 2008

It was really early in the morning and my body didn't have that get up and go. I was retaining some serious water and suffering from various other feminine problems. I really wanted to crawl back into bed and sleep, but I needed this race. I knew I'd feel better afterwards, so off to go.

I dressed and Don speedily loaded everything in the car. He seemed more awake and better capable of running in a race than I was. Surprisingly enough, he was rather chipped, especially since it was hours before that he'd finished up a beer tasting with Flying Dog beers (5 course meal...yeah, I was jealous about the food!!). Anyway, we get there only to learn that the parking lot was full. We followed suit of many other runners and opted to park along side the neighborhood. We walked about a quarter mile to the Arboretum and I found my yoga instructor, as well as met up with Chae. She handed me my shirt and I did a quick change. I was so glad to have it since I've decided this would be the shirt I'd be wearing during the NYC marathon.

Whoa oh so pretty at 7AM. Yeah, a million kinds of sleepy, but I'm ready for this 12 miles. I was 2 seconds away from not wearing my pack, but instead opted to wear it. I put it on and headed towards the back. I saw a sign for the 9 minute pack, but there was no 10 minute group. I'm in the 10 minute to 10.5 minute pace group, but it just ended after 9:30 minute pace group. I stared at everyone back there and moved up to the 9 minute group. Everyone in the back was walkers or people just doing a 10K. Sure enough, the first 2 miles I spent bobbing and weaving, doing my best to escape people or get out of the way of some of the faster people who were being more than ambitious. I was happy and energetic.

I told myself that I would skip the first water break and stop at the 2nd. Around mile 2.5 I struck up a conversation from a girl who'd just gotten married. She was training for her first half marathon. She told me that she was a runner before she got married, but kinda fell off during the wedding planning, but a few months after being married, she decided she needed to get back into it. Her husband is not a runner, but he was there to support her and was camped out at the beer garden for her. He promised he'd be at the finish line to wait for her. At the 3 mile marker she turned off and I kept going. Running over the bridges was awkward. It felt like a double bounce on a trampoline. Definitely not what I expected and actually made me feel a little woozy.

Running around the lake, I really wished I would've had a nice point and shoot camera. I had overheard a female runner talking to her running mate about how her oncologist was furious with her. Apparently a month after she finished her chemo treatments she was out running a marathon. She'd promised after that race to wait to run a marathon, but then she slyly proclaimed, but that didn't include half marathons and 20Ks!! What an inspiration. Runners everywhere have that type of perserverance and it is a beautiful thing to witness.

Chae warned me that I would go through a series of serious hills. To not go crazy with them, but to just take it slowly. Running with Clyde, he told me that he likes to walk up the hills and jog down them. After the first monster hill, I pushed the desire to race up it to the back of my mind and instead did a brisk walk while enjoying my water. On the descent, I picked up the pace and let my legs react. I quickly leapfrogged everyone who'd just passed me. This happened for the next couple of miles. I waved at people who were cheering along the way and then I happened upon a woman named Pam. She's a part of the Dallas Running Club and we got to chatting.

She was training for a half mile on November 2nd as well. She'd be running here in Dallas and my sister is actually going to be running in that race so when I'm running through the streets of NY, she'll be running through the streets of Dallas. It gave me a warm feeling just thinking that thought. She talked to me about proper nutrition and about her father. How he was her inspiration and why she ran. I told her that I started out running to lose weight, but then when the opportunity to run in the NYC marathon, I couldn't pass it up. Robin Hood is a 100% non-profit organization, since all overhead costs are paid for by different companies. Essentially, 100% of all of the money put into that foundation is given or used to DIRECTLY help someone living in poverty. This is especially close to my heart because my mother grew up in extreme poverty. She always taught us to give back whenever we could and so this was my way. But then I talked of my mother and how she was was a vibrant force to be reckoned with. And well, she's still a force to be reckoned with, but is a lot less mobile and has to spend quite a bit of time in her wheelchair. She used to cheer me on, telling me to run like the wind. She told me she loved watching me run and I remember when she'd run alongside me.

And then one day she couldn't run any more.

Then, the day came where she could no longer walk more than 10 ft.

So, I choked back tears and told her (and finally realized) that I was running to honor my mother. The best part is that she'll be there in New York with me, cheering me on, whistling loudly to urge me keep going.

I could hear her whistle at mile 11. I looked at my watch. 10 more minutes and I'd be finished. 1 hour 50 minutes. I could be finished by 2 hours even. That would be great! Well, the monkey jumped on my back when there was this monster congestion at the bottom of the last hill. I had a great rhythm going, but when I was nearly blown over by a biker, I was discouraged. I tried to make friends with another guy and he did a fantastic job cheering me on until I saw them in the far distance. Moments earlier I contemplated to stop, turn back to the 7-11 to pee, but I said, nah, I could do it. And then there they were. Don and Mari, around the bend. My legs flew under me and while I realy thought that I was about totally void all over myself, there I was in front of them kissing my beloved and bouncing along with my daughter. He told me to run the last 200 yards and finish. I refused. I took her in my arms, he pushed the stroller and we all jogged in to the finish line. Mari happily kicked her little legs as we crossed. I LOVED it!! I was grinning from ear to ear, totally excited that my only problem was that I needed to use the bathroom. (After all, I had stopped at every stop except for that first one!! - photo taken from Qualen's TDF 2008 Set)

I wasn't breathing hard, my body wasn't tearing down, I was just seriously hungry. Oh and my feet were tight. They had been doing some cramping throughout the run, so I need to monitor my electrolyte intake a lot more. I discovered this same thing on my 20 miler. Thank God I found Clyde and the Plano Pacers. My running strategy would've totally been different and while I may have had a faster time, it wouldn't've been that much faster and I certainly wouldn't've felt as great as I did. I mean, I felt so great that within six hours I'd be hosting a charity poker tournament. =) Yes, b/c that's how I roll. LOL!

After the run, we went to the beer garden and I tasted beer fortified with vitamins. It was ok, but that water I had was oh so much better. Even more so was the AWESOME gelato from Paciugo and the free coffee from Starbucks. This event was REALLY fun and I'm definitely going to do it again next year. Except next time I'm probably gonna just stick to the 10K, but I'll probably push Mari!

Here I am after the race and after having had that taste of beer. I look a bit more awake, but certainly not ready for a Vogue covershoot! ha ha! Oh and that's CK who ran an AMAZING race and she finished nearly 20 minutes before me! Talk about speedy, speedy!