Happy New Year!!

People come into your life for a Reason, a Season or a Lifetime.When you know which one it is for a person, you will know what to do for that person. When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally, or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend, and they are! They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrong doing on your part, or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered, and now it is time to move on.

Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow, or learn. They bring you an experience of peace, or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it!

It is real! But, only for a season.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons -- things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person, and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life.

It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

Thank you for being a part of my life.

Happy New Year

Blessings

Lisa

From: Western States RD Greg: Come on..let's all help Dan!

Hi friends

Below is a note from Greg Soderlund, the RD of the Western States 100.

All of you who know me know how much I feel that we can all help each other with about anything! We have a fellow runner who needs our help..Dan Moores. I can promise you if the tables were turned Dan would be helping me and you.

Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much!

Come on..Let's get this on all blogs, all facebook pages and see what we can all come together and and do to help Dan.

Happy New Year!

May all your 2009 dreams come true.

Lisa



Run a Mile for a Purpose THIS Saturday
Cancer Benefit for Dan Moores of Auburn Running Co.‏


RUN A MILE FOR DAN
Saturday January 3rd
8am - noon
Placer High School track, Auburn, CA
Rain or Shine

Dan Moores was diagnosed with leukemia in late November. He is currently in the hospital undergoing treatment.

Come run or walk a mile and support Dan, proprietor of Auburn Running Company and the WS100 Bath Road Aid Station Captain. Dan is a long time supporter of the Western States 100-Mile Run. He has Captained the Bath Road Aid Station (mile-60) for six years and has helped out at the Run in many other capacities as well. Dan has earned all the support we can give him. He is a valued member of the running and business communities in the Auburn area and we consider him a member of the Western States 100 Family.

Sponsor yourself, your family, your friends at $10/mile or more if you choose. You don't have to run at Placer H.S. If it's easier for you to do it at an alternate location (such as a trail or treadmill), that's fine too. All funds generated will go toward offsetting Dan's medical costs not covered by insurance.

For more information contact Auburn Running Company at: 530-823-2002.

All donations must be cash or checks (made out to Dan Moores) and must be received by January 15th. Donations will be accepted at the Placer H.S. track or can be mailed to:

Auburn Running Company
833 Lincoln Way
Auburn, CA 95603

From:
Greg Soderlund, RD
Western States 100

Come on with me and run for a PURPOSE!!!!!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY
All of you know that my running is all done for a purpose! Please check out the 810 web site:
http://www.lisas810.com/ This year I raised over $535,000 for Aids Orphans! I can't tell you how this makes my heart sing. I thank all of those who supported me on and off the road.

"Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much"!

I have been blessed with so much in my life. I want you to all consider for the New Year to run with a purpose and for a purpose.

The Dreamchasers Foundation is close to being completed but you can start now to raise money. 100% of ALL money raised will go right to the kids. We are one of few where all the money goes to the cause. Our mission statement is below. Below the statement is how you can have your own webpage set up and start raising money! Our wonderful friend Marianne has offered to set up the webpages for anyone who will run for the Aids Orphans! I hope you will consider coming on board and helping me continue to carry the torch to save many, many children.

THE DREAMCHASER FOUNDATION
*Mission statement*: The Dreamchaser Foundation is dedicated to raising funds to help women and children in need survive and succeed, to improve the quality of their lives and dramatically change their future and the future of the next generation. We encourage athletes in all sports to fundraise while fulfilling their own dreams.

HOW YOU CAN GET STARTED
You can easily have your own online donation page for your next race or event to benefit the Dreamchasers Foundation and AIDS Orphans Rising. We can give you your very own webpage with a unique URL which you can send to folks to donate online. You don't need to set anything up-- no PayPal or other things to worry about.

Here's how it works. We've set up a campaign where all the money donated from everyone's event goes directly to AIDS Orphans Rising. If you'd like to do your own fundraising for the charity, simply e-mail me at lisa@dreamchaserevents.com to let me know you are committed to helping. I will put you in touch with Marianne and then it’s a simple set-up process. Marianne will plug the information into a template and voila-- you've got a webpage!

I love you all and hope you will consider coming on board and helping us save many, many children. I ask you to please pass this blog post to anyone who you might feel would want to join us. You can make a difference, we all can.

God Bless you and keep you safe.

Lisa

Do you want to have your heart touched?

In Phoenix, Arizona, a 26-year-old mother stared down at her 6 year old son, who was dying of terminal leukemia. Although her heart was filled with sadness, she also had a strong feeling of determination.

Like any parent, she wanted her son to grow up & fulfill all his dreams. Now that was no longer possible...The leukemia would see to that. But she still wanted her son's dream to come true.

She took her son' s hand and asked, 'Billy, did you ever think about what you wanted to be once you grew up? Did you ever dream and wish what you would do with your life?'

'I wanted to be a fireman when I grew up,' he said. Mom smiled back and said, 'Let's see if we can make your wish come true.'

Later that day she went to her local fire Department in Phoenix, Arizona, where she met Fireman Bob, who had a heart as big as Phoenix. She explained her son's final wish and asked if it might be possible to give her 6 year-old son a ride around the block on a fire engine. Fireman Bob said, 'Look, we can do better than that. If you'll have your son ready at seven o'clock Wednesday morning, we'll make him an honorary Fireman for the whole day. He can come down to the fire station, eat with us, go out on all the fire calls, the whole nine yards! And if you'll give us his sizes, we'll get a real fire uniform for him, with a real fire hat - not a toy - one-with the emblem of the Phoenix Fire Department on it, a yellow slicker like we wear and rubber boots.'' They're all manufactured right here in Phoenix, so we can get them fast.'

Three days later Fireman Bob picked up Billy, dressed him in his uniform and escorted him from his hospital bed to the waiting hook and ladder truck. Billy got to sit on the back of the truck and help steer it back to the fire station. He was in heaven. There were three fire calls in Phoenix that day and Billy got to go out on all three calls. He rode in the different fire engines, the paramedics' van, and even the fire chief's car. He was also videotaped for the local news program.

Having his dream come true, with all the love and attention that was lavished upon him, so deeply touched Billy that he lived three months longer than any doctor thought possible. One night all of his vital signs began to drop dramatically and the head nurse, who believed in the hospice concept - that no one should die alone, began to call the family members to the hospital.

Then she remembered the day Billy had spent as a Fireman, so she called the Fire Chief and asked if it would be possible to send a fireman in uniform to the hospital to be with Billy as he made his transition. The chief replied, 'We can do better than that. We'll be there in five minutes... Will you please do me a favor? When you hear the sirens screaming and see the lights flashing, will you announce over the PA system that there is not a fire?'' It's the department coming to see one of its finest members one more time. And will you open the window to his room?'

About five minutes later a hook and ladder truck arrived at the hospital and extended its ladder up to Billy's third floor open window-------- 16 fire-fighters climbed up the ladder into Billy's room. With his mother's permission, they hugged him and held him and told him how much they LOVED him. Billy looked up at the fire chief and said,'Chief, am I really a fireman now?'

'Billy, you are, and The Head Chief, Jesus, is holding your hand,' the chief said.

With those words, Billy smiled and said, 'I know, He's Been holding my hand all day.' He closed his eyes one last time.

*This is a true story,one that touched my own heart so, so much

Lisa

Plantar Fasciitis or My Heel Hurts! Now What?

Plantar Fasciitis or My Heel Hurts! Now What?
By Dr. Christiane Gardner

Perhaps the most common and most frustrating overuse injury in runners is chronic heel pain that just won't go away! (Achilles tendonitis is a close second!) It seems all of us have either experienced this nagging injury or knows someone who suffers from it. This article will give you the nitty-gritty on plantar fasciitis:

• what it is,
• what it isn't,
• how to cure it, and
• how to avoid it recurring.

Just remember: nothing can take the place of a good sports physician or podiatrist.

Let’s start with the basics.

What plantar fasciitis is…
The plantar fascia is a strong ligament which lies just beneath the skin on the plantar surface of the foot. It extends from its attachment at the heel distally to the toes. Its purpose is to provide integrity to the bottom of the foot and allow some "spring" action in the push off phase of gait.

The plantar fascia works very closely with the calf muscles and Achilles tendon. The tighter your calf muscle, the more strain is placed on the Achilles tendon and plantar fasciia. The reason your heel hurts worse in the morning is that when you sleep, your foot is plantarflexed (toes point down) a bit. This causes the calf muscle to tighten which in turn causes the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia to tighten. When you first step on the floor in the morning, the tight plantar fascia is suddenly stretched causing pain. The patient with plantar fasciitis typically complains of pain first thing in the morning. This pain usually goes away after a few steps, only to return after a period of inactivity such as driving to work. We runners have a tendency to ignore small aches and pains. However, if you ignore heel pain, it will likely become worse and therefore much more difficult to heal.

What plantar fasciitis isn't…
If your heel is always painful especially with weight-bearing, and there is pain when you cup your heel with your hand and squeeze, then you may be suffering from a stress fracture of the calcaneus (heel bone). Time to get an X-ray or bone scan.

If you experience a tingling sensation like a mini electrical shock in your arch and heel, then a condition called tarsal tunnel syndrome may be the cause of your pain. This is the foot version of carpal tunnel syndrome where a ligament becomes very tight across a nerve causing the tingling. This is usually caused by excessive pronation and is often cured with an orthotic.

Pain in the medial arch is often confused with plantar fasciitis, but is usually an inflammation of the posterior tibial tendon. Lastly, chronic back pain due to arthritis of the lower back can cause referred pain in the heel. A sports medicine physician or podiatrist should be able to diagnose your condition and get you back running again.

How to cure plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis by definition is caused by inflammation of the ligament. Initial treatment consists of early recognition of the problem and reducing the inflammation. Ice, stretching and anti-inflammatory medications can help in the early stages of plantar fasciitis. Try and look back over your training log to see if your training changed which may have caused this overuse injury:

• Have you increased your mileage too much too soon?
• Are your running shoes past their expiration date?
• Have you added speed work or hill repeats?
  

If ice, stretching, ibuprofen, and change in running shoes do not resolve your symptoms, an orthotic may be necessary to reduce the pronation or flattening of your foot. These do not have to be expensive. While some patients will require a custom orthotic made from an impression of their feet, most patients do quite well with off the shelf orthotics such as the "Sole Orthotic". These are heat- moldable inserts which run about $50. They can be found in most running stores or at Zombie Runner (I have no financial interest in anything!).

A night splint may also be beneficial. This is a brace which holds your foot at 90 degrees thus gently stretching your achilles tendon and plantar fascia. Patients find the splint is very easy to wear especially when reading, watching TV or sleeping. I find the dorsal night splint to be the most comfortable. Google "night splint for plantar fasciitis" for a listing of suppliers.

Massage therapy and physical therapy are also beneficial in reducing the inflammation and relieving the tight plantar fascia. Injection therapy is an option if the above does not relieve your symptoms. While I am against injecting a steroid directly into a tendon, I do often inject the plantar fascia. The injection will usually reduce the inflammation to a point where conservative measures can now work more effectively. Again, the key is reducing the inflammation.

Surgery is sometimes necessary to resolve plantar fasciitis which is not improving with any of the above treatment measures. Only about 5% of patients require surgery. In general there are two types of surgical procedures:

The first is aimed at cutting part of the plantar fascia thus elongating the ligament (picture cutting through one half of a large rubber band).

The other surgery involves no incision, but rather a series of shock waves is applied to the heel. The body does not respond to chronic inflammation very well, however it does respond quite well to acute inflammation. The shock wave therapy is aimed at changing the chronic inflammation into acute inflammation so the body can begin to heal.

How to avoid a recurrence
OK, so now you have finally gotten rid of the dreaded plantar fasciitis, how can you stop it from recurring? As always, watch your training, stretch gently and replace your shoes when needed. Having said all that, I have become a big advocate of running barefoot for short periods of time each week. When a foot is encased in a supportive shoe with a heel, the muscles of the foot do not have a chance to strengthen. Try standing on one foot without shoes. Do you wobble a lot? This may be due to weak muscles in the foot. Running shoes with a high heel can predispose a runner to achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis by shortening these tendons and ligaments. I am not saying get rid of your favorite shoes! I am suggesting gently running a half mile or so barefoot on a soft surface once or twice a week. This will strengthen muscles you never knew you had as well as teach you to run gently thus allowing your foot and leg to absorb shock rather than relying on the shoe.

Remember: early recognition of the symptoms is key to healing quickly!

Previous articles from Dr Chris:
Chronic Achilles Tendonitis

Antartica or Morocco..where would you rather be???

Tess training for Marathon Des Sables in Morocco

Ray and Kevin in Antartica

Yummy Breakfast Bars: great gifts:)

Breakfast Bars:

These are some of most favorite to make for snacks, training runs and gifts to friends!

Make a batch of these yummy bars ahead of time and have them on hand for a quick snack or even breakfast.
The bars will last up to a week at room temp., or up t0 3 months if you wrap them and then stick in the freezer.

Here is what you will need:

1 tablespoon walnut oil, plus a bit more for the pan.
1 1/4 cup spelt flakes
1/2 cup dried cherries
1/4 cup sprouted or ground flaxseeds
1/4 cup pecans. coarsely chopped
2 tablespoons pistachios, coarsely chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup natural creamy peanut butter
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Here is what you need to do:

1.Preheat the oven to 325. Brush an 8 by 8 inch baking pan with oil. Line the bottom and two sides
with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on each side. Brush paper with oil. In a bowl, combine spelt, cherries, flaxseeds, pecans, pistachios, and salt; set to the side.

2. In a small saucepan combine honey, peanut butter, oil, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat until melted. Add to dry ingredients and stir to combine. Transfer mixture to prepared pan; smooth top. Bake until golden and edges pull away from from sides of pan, 20-25 minutes. Cool completely in pan. Using paper overhand, lift the bars out of the pan. On a cutting board, cut into 8 pieces using a serrated knife. Store in an airtight container, separating pieces with wax or parchment paper, for one week.

*255 calories per bar, 6 grams of protein, 12 grams fat.36 grams carbs. 4 grams fiber.
*These bars: the peanut butter adds protein, while flaxseeds and spelt bring fiber. You also get omega 3s from the walnut oil and flaxseeds. YUMMY!!!!

Off to run in the wonderful snow:)
Have a blessed weekend
Lisa

Ten Thoughts on Good Living!

1. Look for reasons to get active and let your inner radiance shine.

2. Your attention is like a muscle; it needs to relax in order to reengage.

3. See your more difficult moments as opportunities to rise above.

4. Health is the manifestation of internal balance.

5. Don't miss a chance to get outside and experience the warmth of the season.

6. Once you decide to take action, you'll be surprised by how things fall into place.

7. Discover ways to embrace boredom. It's part of the human condition.

8. Your words have a bigger impact that you realize.

9. Eating sustainably involves not just what you eat, but also how much.

10. Sometimes the expression of LOVE is the most POWERFUL healer of all.

"Body and Soul"

Tell someone you LOVE them today!

Lisa

Beautifully stated

Beautifully stated

As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn't supposed to ever let you down probably will.

You will have your heart broken probably more than once and it's harder every time.

You'll break hearts too, so remember how it felt when yours was broken.

You'll fight with your best friend.

You'll blame a new love for things an old one did.

You'll cry because time is passing too fast, and you'll eventually lose someone you love.

So take too many pictures, laugh too much, and love like you've never been hurt because every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you'll never get back.

Don't be afraid that your life will end,Be afraid that it will never begin.
~anonymous
Thanks Jim:)


"Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending."
*Maria Robinson

Our Winter Snow Shoes Series at Targhee Resort!

Yeah!!! Winter is here, the snow is coming!!

Come and snow shoe with us!

First race : Sat. Dec. 20th

Second race: Sunday Jan. 18th

Third race: Sunday Feb. 14th

Fourth race: Wed. March 11th

Fifth race: Sat. April 4th

I can't wait!!!!

Happy Feet

Lisa

Happy Wednesday!

Happy Wednesday! Check out this amazing photo of Ray and one of his team! Can you imagine how cold it must be at the South Pole!

www.southpolequest.com

This photo is of Will, Colleen, Annemarie and Lisa the day before Ironman AZ. I have gotten a few emails asking why I did not mention or write about Colleens race. Well..Colleen did not finish the Ironman and I was going to let her tell you why. Colleen now has her own blog that you can follow!!! I really don't care for the DNF..I like to say MTRC Made the right choice for yourself on that given day!!! http://elevator-rides.blogspot.com/

I should also mention that Bill Cook and Tim Key had great races at IM AZ!!

Keep on Dreaming Big!

Lisa

IMAZ and more amazing journeys!

Hi all,

I hope you each had a wonderful Thanksgiving, we sure did.I think between our camps and Thanksgiving it is time to cut back on thecalories!!! Wow..so much great food.



Last weekend I went to Ironman AZ to be with friends and students who were doing the race. I was not training for any race let alone theIronman (which I did sign up for) but really wanted to share the race with these people somehow. I got my mind set to pace through the Ironman which I have never done before. I can assure you it is not an easy task! Annemarie is now an Ironman!!! Will is an Ironman for the 3rd time!!!I am an Ironman!!!

Annemarie: I met Annemarie a year ago this week in Tucson, she was getting ready to run her first half marathon at the Tucson marathon and she did:) After the half marathon she and I started training together and a month later she ran the Rock and Roll marathon. At this time many of us were signing up for the AZ Ironman, these races sell out very fast. Annemarie asked me if I thought she could do a race like an Ironman and those who know me, I said..well of course you can!!!

Little did I know at the time Annemarie was not able to even swim 1 lap of the pool with her head down and she did not even own a bike let alone had she been on a road bike in many years!!!The end of May Annemarie started taking swim lessons, the begining of Sept. she got her first road bike!!! On Nov. 23rd Annemarie became an Ironman!!!

We did the swim together, the bike and the run and we crossed the finish line together!!! What a joy this was in so many ways. Annemarie had to overcome her fear of open water, her fear of riding a bike on the road with other people, let alone trying to reach for a water bottle while riding the bike!!!Many told Annemarie she could not do it, many were wrong.She ran through that finish line to glory, they put the medal around her neck and she smiled and said..I did it, I did it..I said YOU SURE DID.Annemarie moved around after the IM like she was not sore or tired at all, I was!

The 2 days after the IM Annemarie kept telling me, I can't believe it..I am not even that sore, I can't believe it..I did it!!We can all do so much more than we think we can. I thank Annemarie for showing us the way!!!



There are 2 other people that I adore that I would love for you to read about. Most all of you know them already. Marshall Ulrich and Ray Zahab!

Below is the press release with all the informaton on Marshalls amazing record run and...

...then our friend Ray Zahab who is running in the SOUTHPOLE right now. Visit http://www.southpolequest.com/ to follow Ray and his team. This is one amazing journey. The photo is of Ray today!!!!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Record-Setting Run Across America


Idaho Springs, CO November 23, 2008 –

Almost 117 marathons in52-and-a-half days. That is what ultrarunner Marshall Ulrich completedduring his 3,063-mile run across the United States. Ulrich started in SanFrancisco on September 13, 2008 and completed his run across America inNew York City on Election Day, with an official finish time of 52 days, 11hours, and 58 minutes. He averaged over 58 miles per day: that is twomarathons plus (almost) a 10K race, every day, for more than 52 days in a row.

Ulrich’s crossing is the third fastest ever on the Los Angeles or SanFrancisco/New York City route. He smashed the less than 47 mile averageGrand Masters (age 50 and over) record of 64 days. Amazingly, at age 57,Ulrich also broke the Masters (age 40 and over) record of almost 54 milesaverage in just under 53 days.

During his record-setting run, Ulrich ran between 60 and 70 miles on 43days, with injuries – including plantar fasciitis and a tear in a majortendon in his right foot – bringing his overall average to over 58 miles aday. Other challenges included knee, ankle, and Achilles problems as wellas an infection from one of very few blisters he had during the run.

Ulrich reports, “It was by far the toughest thing I have ever done; eventougher than climbing Everest.” Ulrich reached the summit of MountEverest, the highest peak in the world, from the north side on May 25,2004. “A hard day on Everest was like an average day running acrossAmerica,” Ulrich said. “I have never pushed my limits that far before.”Typically Ulrich ran 19 hours per day and slept 4 to 5 hours per night. Hewore – and wore out – more than 30 pairs of shoes and dozens of pairs ofsocks.

“Seeing how much Americans have in common was one of the greatest thingsabout the run,” Ulrich said. “We are all facing challenges, but we havethe strength to overcome those challenges if we support each other,” hesaid. “I couldn’t have done this run without the support of my wife, mycrew, and the sponsors, for example,” he explained. The run was sponsoredby Super 8, AXA Equitable, Vita-Mix, and VQ Orthocare.

“Dream it and do it” and “The only limitations are in your mind” are twothings Ulrich often says, and believes wholeheartedly. By completing hisrun across America, Ulrich hopes to inspire people to accomplish theirgoals, whatever they might be.

The United Way was the major beneficiary for the event. The Live Unitedcampaign encourages youth to be more active and physically fit, somethingUlrich obviously believes in. His level of fitness, at 57 years old, iscertainly inspirational to kids, baby-boomers, and beyond.

NEHST Studios filmed the entire event for a documentary called “RunningAmerica” set to be released in 2009. The documentary will offer a slice ofAmerica through film footage, photographs, and interviews with Americanscaptured along the way across the country. The production of the film wassupervised by NEHST's head of production, Dana Offenbach.

For more information, please go to www.runningamerica08.com<>

About Marshall Ulrich

Marshall Ulrich, 57, is the only person in the world to complete theTriple Crown of Extreme Sports: world class ultra runner, Seven Summitsmountaineer, and record setting adventure racer. His specialty is competing in extreme conditions including desert and adventure racing, aswell as mountaineering. In addition to running across America, Ulrich has:

- Completed 120 ultra marathons averaging over 100 miles each.

- Reached the summit of each of the Seven Summits, including MountEverest, all on first attempts.

- Completed 12 expedition length adventure races, including all nine EcoChallenge adventure races

– something only two other people in the worldhave done.


Ulrich has raised over $839,500 for various charities, including theReligious Teachers Filippini, an order of Sisters that promote the dignityof women and children in some of the poorest countries in the world – andhere at home – by providing an education to those who previously hadlimited opportunities and choices in their lives. For more informationabout Marshall Ulrich please go to his Web site at www.marshallulrich.com<http://www.marshallulrich.com/> .

About NEHST Studios

NEHST Studios is a diversified film production, financing and distributioncompany headed up by Chairman and Founder Larry Meistrich producer ofSling Blade and You Can Count on Me and founder of indie film studioShooting Gallery and entrepreneur, CEO Ari Friedman. One of NEHST's goalsis to remove entertainment industry barriers and open up the pitching anddevelopment process to anyone with a great idea. The company, whichlaunched at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival, is developing more than twentyfeature film, television, and web series projects. For more information onNEHST Studios, please visit http://www.nehst.com/ .

For further details, please contact:

Heather Ulrich
Tel: 303-567-0727 or 720-320-2613
heather@marshallulrich.com

Photos available on request.



Love to all,

Lisa

Galapagos Islands!!!

It is amazing that a month has gone by!!! I have just read many blogs thing morning to catch up.
I am proud to be an American and I am so proud of our country.

We had 2 wonderful training camps in the Galapagos Islands!!! Both camps were sold out and as it looks they are about close to being sold out for 2009. The training, the people, the food, the amazing animals, the air quality...need I say more.
Below is a link to Matt Harts blog with photos and then photos from camper Becky Clements who is running the 2009 MDS. Becky also made a blog post on her own blog. I am going to ask all the campers to post links to there photos if you would like to see them!
I arrived back to the states with 3 missing bags..until my bags arrive I will not be able to post any of my own photos!



http://coachingendurance.com/blog/blog.shtml

http://picasaweb.google.com/becky0621.pics/Galapagos

I just got home and leave on Friday morning to fly to AZ where I will pace 2 women through Ironman AZ!!! I have not been on the bike since Oct. and have been able to swim 4 times. It should be fun! Nice and easy to the finish line.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you, we sure have much to be thankful for.

Lisa

HE DID IT!!! Marshall Ulrich Masters Champ of the WORLD!!!!!

From Ecuador to NYC people all over the World have been following Marshall Ulrichs amazing Run Across America finish as well as the Presidential election!
I have been going from one computer to another, from one TV to another to follow both!

MARSHALL IS IN NYC..I hope sitting down with his feet up and cold drink of his choice..celebrating the way he has dreamed of for many days..
All of Ecuador is here cheering for you Marshall and is awe of what you have been able to accomplish...
Tears of joy have filled my key board a few times this week finding out about the final miles and all you have gone through to be where you are right now at this very moment.

Here is the blog post about the finish..I hope you will all go and post some more to Marshall.

At 7:10pm today Marshall finished his trans continental run. He broke the grand master’s as well as the master’s record. Marshall averaged 58 miles a day over the entire 3045 or so miles. That’s 58 miles every day for 52 and a half days. Equal to just over 116 marathons.
Marshall was especially honored to have Frank Giannino who still holds the world record for running across the country there at the finish. It was fantastic to have him there, he is great and he still holds a very solid and amazing record.”

And here is the link to post a comment.
http://blog.runningamerica08.com/?p=1074#comment-1214

Thanks to all
Lisa

Marshall Ulich will FINISH his Run Across America TODAY!!! Be there!!!

Good morning.

We have just gotten a few emails that Marshall is fact finish his amazing Run Across America today!!! City Hall, Manhattan NYC!!!! Be there if you can!!!
"Don't tell me what I can't do, let me show you what I can do."""
Marshall is about to do it.!!! Beyond amazing.
To find out exact details here is the link to go to.
http://blog.runningamerica08.com/
I am sure Marshall and Heather would love to hear from you all.

Here are the emails that arrived this morning:


1. "Marshall did 61 miles on Monday. Will start again at 6:30 or 7:00 in a.m. on Tues. Bad back and no doc took it's toll...that and the 3000 miles - yep he reached 3000 tonight."

"Plus 300 miles-no doc...Bad back, still very swollen, injured r foot & new bruise on left heel meant Marsh had to walk almost entire distance today."

2.Hi Lisa...
I just ran with Marshall...he was looking good...
and saw Heather, and 2 of Marshall's children....
and Brian a crew memeber who was with them the entire way...

what a trip...his back is giving him trouble...
with luck he will finish around 7 pm tonight...

nobody like Marshall...he will break the Senior and Masters records...

incredible...

sorry you weren't here to see him...

God bless you.
Sr.Marybeth

Marshall Ulrich...NYC Tues. Nov. 4th...MUST READ!!!!

Hello to all of you! Sorry about the 2nd post, I am not able to get into my server to change the first post!
I have begged some perfect stranger to let me use there computer so I could send you this blog post. I am not able to get on any web sites from my computer..crazy!!!

ULTRA RUNNING LEGEND MARSHALL ULRICH WILL COMPLETE HIS TRANSCON
Run Across the United States tomorrow Tues. Nov. 4th, 2008!!!!

Marshall will run the final miles of his amazing journey and finish in NYC at the City Hall in Manhattan.

THIS EMAIL JUST CAME IN FROM OUR FRIEND CHRIS FROST: 4 pm Central Time
Lisa,
I monitor the website 24/7 and also get periodic updates by text from
Heather. Marsh passed into New Jersey about 2 hours ago. I will know tonight
when I see his mileage total for today. You never know with Marsh, he may
just keep on running tonight. My best guess right now would be ....about
40-45 miles to go when he starts tomorrow morning. So maybe somewhere
between 3 and 5pm. But if he runs through the night and eats up a good
amount of that 40-45 remaining total...he will be in closer to noon.
In any event, baring a disaster, it will be Tuesday at City Hall.
YOU CAN ALL CHECK THIS WEB SITE TO GET ALL THE INFORMATION ON HIS FINISH AND GET THERE TO SEE MARSH!!! http://www.runningamerica08.com/

Chris..

A POST TODAY ON MARSHALLS BLOG:

November 3, 2008 by Marshall Ulrich
“At 3:30pm today, November 3rd, Marshall departed from his 26 miles marathon marker. After completing his first marathon of today he has completed 2956 miles.
As I was saying Marshall’s youngest daughter is Allie is in New York City. She’s there with Marshall’s sister Lana and Lana’s daughter Chris. We’re very happy to have all of the Ulrichs out here with us. To help Marshall celebrate the finish of his run. Especially having his kids out here to crew and also Mark Macy out here to run with him.
Thanks to Elaine and Taylor, Marshall’s two older children for crewing this morning. Taylor continues to crew tonight. Thanks to Mark Macy for running with him this morning and to Tom Triumph who is running with him now. Tom, Mark and Taylor remain on the course helping Marshall. Thanks again for checking in.”


You see: Marshall had a dream, a very big one and in less than 24 hours he is going to realize this dream!!!
Marshall had covered close to 60 miles a day and as I have been told will have the 3rd fastest crossing in the history!!!!

I have tears as I write this email..thinking of Marshall. The friend he is to all of us, the amazing man he is and the amazing athlete he is.
When Marshall set out to do this run I told him that I really felt in my heart that he was one of the only humans on this earth who could run as many miles a day as he was going to run.
Marshall has inner strength, courage of a lion and the eye of the tiger. He has suffered a great deal of pain along this journey with his foot yet he got up each day and continued.
Heather (Marshalls wife) has been with him all the way. I have spoken to her a few times along the way and even to Marshall on my way to the airport coming to Ecuador. I cried then as I do now knowing all they went through to get to where they are today..Marshall and Heather what a team ....one amazing team!!! It has to have been very difficult for Heather to watch the pain Marshall has endured during this run but I can tell you this knowing them both: THE WORD THANKFUL AND GRATITUDE WILL STAND TALL FOR ALL THE YEARS TO COME.
THIS IS WHAT THEY ARE BOTH MADE OF!!! Faith, hope and love..all the way!!!

If you are anywhere near NYC on Tues. it would be such a joy to be there to bring Marshall to the finish, to share this amazing accomplishment with who we all to know as one of the greatest athletes of all times.

I ask you to please pass this blog to all your friends and family who may be able to join in.

Marshall..you did it...you sure did!

Love to you
The Batchens

weight loss and found money!

Hi All!
Just back from our first camp on the Galapagos Islands!!! Much more to come with photos:)
The training was wonderful and more than that the food was and is amazing..right out of the sea and then everything else is fresh and organic. The air quality on this island is something I will never forget..the cleanest air!!!!

I thought I would share this article below with all of you. I have been getting asked a great deal about winter coming and weight loss.


http://health.yahoo.com/experts/drmao/15737/5-essential-weight-loss-foods


Those of you who know me know that when I run on the road I look for "found money" My kids made up a song that goes like this:
Money, money everywhere. Enough on the ground for all the kids to share. Do your share, do your part, you can make a difference!!!
I challenge you all to run on the road once in the next week, look for money and let me know how much you find..let's see how much together we find!!!

THAT LITTLE PENNY!


That Little Penny in the Parking Lot
Remember this every time you pass that little penny in the parking lot.I always thought that it was for good luck, but I love this version better.

I found a penny today Lying on the ground. But it's not just a penny, This little coin I've found.
Found pennies come from heaven, that's what my Grandpa told me.
He said Angels toss them down. Oh, how I loved that story.
He said when an Angel misses you, They toss a penny down; Sometimes just to cheer you up, To make a smile out of your frown. So, don’t pass by that penny When you're feeling blue. It may be a penny from heaven That an Angel's tossed to you.

LOVE TO ALL
LISA

Some words to share

Good morning and happy Thursday!

We are in Ecuador and today we are headed to the island Isabella to wait for the first group of campers to arrive. What an amazing, magical place this is! The second group of campers arrive the first week of Nov.!!! Both of the camps are sold out. I look forward to being able to share with you some awesome photos of the camps:)

For more details you can check out our web site at http://www.dreamchaserevents.com/ under upcoming camps.

Below is some great words from Sister Marybeth to share.

Have a wonderful day.

Love to all

Lisa


When you change your attitude to gratitude...

...good things happen




Spiritual Water
by Max Lucado

"The water I give will become a spring of water gushing up inside...giving eternal life."

--John 4:13

Deprive your body of necessary fluid, and your body will tell you.
Deprive your soul of spiritual water, and your soul will tell you.
Dehydrated hearts send desperate messages. Snarling tempers.
Waves of worry. Growling mastodons of guilt and fear.

You think God wants you to live with these?
Hopelessness. Sleeplessness. Loneliness. Resentment. Irritability. Insecurity.
These are warnings.
Symptoms of a dryness deep within.

Treat your soul as you treat your thirst.
Take a gulp.
Imbibe moisture.
Flood your heart with a good swallow of water.

Where do you find water for the soul?
"If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink."

Happy day...

God bless you.
Sr.MB

Fall Cleanse

Good morning and happy fall!

The Tetons have been amazing this fall. Snow last weekend and now back to the beautiful weather!

For many years I have done a change of season cleanse. This year, I have done two cleanses. Many of us take better care of our cars than we do our bodies. We take our cars in for regular oil change, tune ups. We can replace a car when it is used up or run down, but we have ONE body. If you destroy your body where are you going to live?

Cleansing is healthy for all of us to do, you may be interested in trying it. I have NO financial gain by telling you about this product, my goal is to simply turn you on to a very good product where I seen great results. Several friends and students have and are using this cleanse and they are the ones who turned me onto it :)

Happy fall and happy cleansing

Lisa



7 Reasons to Cleanse and Replenish

1. Strengthen the immune system. Cleansing impurities and flooding the body with high grade essential nutrients supports the immune system.



2. Love Your Liver. A clean, healthy liver supports metabolism and burns fat.



3. Support Healthy Brain Chemistry. When your body can effectively absorb and digest fats and proteins, it converts these nutrients into healthy brain chemicals. When your brain chemistry is aligned, you will make healthier food selections.



4. Restore Antioxidants. Toxic compounds create "free radicals" that have the potential to damage cellular DNA. Antioxidants are substances that block free radical formation and destroy already-formed free radicals.



5. Free Yourself from Stress. In herbal medicine, adaptogens are used to help the body "adapt" to imbalances that stress the body externally or internally. Replenishing the body's needed adaptogens assists in the body's own self-regulatory systems, thus reducing stress.



6. Support Your Vital Organs. Gentle cleansing allows your vital organs (liver, colon, urinary tract, sweat glands, skin pores, lymphatic system, and more) to perform theirfunctions more effectively.



7. Lose Weight and Feel Great. Studies have shown that fat cells can provide the perfect environment for holding onto impurities. Cleansing aids in the body's ability to flush fat and increase metabolism.



To learn more about cleansing, visit http://www.cleansedforlife.com/


For information about the products or ordering products at wholesale prices contact:
Gail Melton
Nutritional Cleansing Coach
e-mail: gailm50@hotmail.com
Or call (575) 649-0606 (MST).

Short Update

This is really what it is all about for me. These beautiful kids that we have been able to help through our effort.

This photo was just sent from Sister Marybeth who is in Brazil right now and these are some of the Orphans.

It is not all about the running or the bike it is so much about the commitment to try and help others have a better life, opportunities that they would never have if we did not help.

I am still working on processing the 508 race and when I do you will be some of the first to know. I don't feel well but I am going to be fine.

I so enjoyed training for the 508 and the process of it all. To be honest I love the bike and I look forward to more of it.

We learn, we grow from everything.

These kids, my own kids..this is the reason why I do what I do.

Here is an email to share from Sister Marybeth and I have found out she was praying for me at 10:30 pm just about when I pulled the plug on the 508..

You see, I had a dream but God had another plan that I did now know about..I am ok with this.

Lisa...there is no finish line!!! nike has a shirt with this on it...

you have accomplished all that God has wanted you to do at this moment...and you learned that you are human...

it will help you a great deal while you are training others...

thank God you had the wisdom to stop...

I would love to know the time...because I sat up in bed and started praying non stop for you...

so thank you for your tremendous effort...you reached your goal...we have plenty to help the kids...
and where I am right now boy do they need help...so God has put us both in the right place at the right time...

I am very proud of all you have accomplished...
and privileged to be your friend...

God has a lot more for us to do together...dump the bike...you are better on foot!!!

wish I could give you a big hug...

love to all...

God bless you.
Sr.MB

I would like to thank all of you for your SO kind donations. We are over $508,000 as of today and of course you can still make a donation at anytime on the www.lisas810.com web site.

Thank you all for your time, effort and energy to write such amazing emails and send blog posts.

Your prayers, love and support mean more to me than you will ever know.

Have a great day

Lisa

We can still do the 508.

Hi there folks -- it's your celebrity guest blogger here with a non-update post.

Lisa may not have reached the finish line at 29 Palms, California* but we can give her a 508 that she'd much rather attain.

On Friday's blog post we announced that Lisa's 810 has raised over $500,000 for AIDS Orphans Rising, the incredible organization that works to shelter, feed and educate children in Africa and elsewhere so they can become healthy, self-reliant adults. Since 100% of donations go directly to the children -- not a penny to salaries, rent, administration and the like -- it means that those half a million dollars will go directly to helping these orphans.

Let's complete the 508 by raising just 8,000 more dollars by the time Lisa gets home. Send the news to all your friends, acquaintances and family members and ask them to donate whatever they can afford. $10, $100, $1000, $1,000,000 - any amount brings us closer to $508,000.

With the donations that folks have been sending via the internet just during the time that Lisa's been riding is $420.00. We can raise $7,580 within 24 hours if everyone does a little outreach. And of course, if you haven't had the chance to donate yet, you can do so here.

Thanks! And like Will Abrams wrote to Lisa in a great comment -- "All the children don't care about the desert cup, just survival. You have ensured this!"

-M

*Did this town actually name themselves after a Robert Plant song?

.

Update

Just a quick note to let everyone who has been checking the time splits page know that Lisa is okay and at the hotel.

Lisa didn't make it to Almost Amboy this year, but did go far beyond what she was able to do last year. I'm afraid I don't have many details to offer, but I did get a message earlier on from Cathy about the weather: "bitter cold, rain and wind... Lisa is having a hard time with the wind. Very strong, gusty winds.... 30-40mph with stronger gusts."

As soon as I hear more, I'll give updates.

Baker ------> Kelso (mile 417.55)

The 508 website has been updated with non-time warp stats, and Lisa passed Kelso around 7:00 PM! She's en route to the second to last stop at Almost Amboy.

Those who followed Lisa's previous attempt at the 508 know that she didn't make it to Kelso last year. She was forced to stop just 100 miles from the finish due to a very serious back problem.

But this year is different, not in a small part due to the fantastic bikes she's riding thanks to the generosity of some amazing people.

For non-cyclists like myself, a bike is a bike. But to take on one of the hardest endurance bike races in the world like the 508, having the appropriate bike can mean the difference between finishing and a DNF.

Last year Lisa rode over 400 miles on a bike that wasn't suited to her, and wasn't ideal for the conditions of the particular race. Her back paid the price. This year, she's riding on some beautiful bikes.

The first one comes thanks to Leigh Corbin and her friend Dr. Kay (below) of the most wonderfully named "Ouch Sports Medical Center". This BMC bike is "fast and amazing" according to Lisa. She'll be using it for climbing.

The second bike is lent to her by her friend Aran and is a lovely little pink number which looks very sharp with Lisa's Pearl Izumi shirt, I must say.

.

The third bike was sponsored by a very good friend of Lisa's who does not want to be named.

So this year, rather than one bike that proved to be the wrong one, Lisa has three bikes thanks to some very generous friends. As Lisa said to me the email describing the bikes and the people who provided them: "What can I say? I am blessed..."

Mini-Update.

Time warp confirmed.

Apparently the race timers were just a bit behind on posting the results because they've now put up the info that Lisa blazed through Shoshone at 27 hours and 22 minutes.

She then cycled through a wormhole somewhere around the Ibex Pass, because according to the site she cruised into Time Station #5 in Baker at 7:00 hours and 55 minutes.

I hear that based on the special theory of relativity Lisa could theoretically, be traveling faster than the speed of light. Skeptics might argue that this would be impossible due to the fact that to accelerate to the speed of light any particle, including Lisa, having subluminal velocity would require infinite energy. This means that to surpass the speed of light (in a homogeneous space) Lisa would need more than infinite energy. However, this can easily be explained-- Lisa has many, many packets of GU in the crew van.

Should Lisa have cycled through an alternate energy-vacuum located somewhere between the World's Largest Thermometer and the Mad Greek Restaurant both in Baker, then she could indeed have arrived at Time Station Five in 8 hours.


Or the website could have just screwed up.

Shoshone ------> Baker (mile 382.62)

Mild heart attack averted.

I've been obsessively checking the Time Station splits page on the Furnace Creek 508 site like a woman desperately trying to avoid exercising. (Which, I most certainly am not doing. Not at all. Not one bit.)

The more I hit "refresh" the more anxious I get. There's been no time posted next at Shoshone. It's a very tough stretch with tons of incline, and I've noticed that the DNF rate is increasing exponentially. I knew that Lisa wasn't one of those folks, but the fact that she hadn't hit Shoshone meant she hadn't finished 73 miles within 14 hours of riding.

Add to that the fact that she hadn't shown up on Spot for a while, I got a wee anxious. I text Jay, just because he loves it when I text him repeatedly. But he writes back that he's heard nothing. I call Colleen, my trusty repository of all news. No word.

Finally, I get a text back from Jay that Lisa is 14 miles outside of Baker which means the official 508 website didn't report her stop at Time Station #4. Which can only mean that she blew by them so quickly they weren't even sure if what had passed them was human.

So forget about Shoshone; our girl is practically at Time Station #5, Baker. Word on the web is that this part of the 508 is the least hellacious of the 8 stages. This is a bit like saying having your pinky toe gnawed off by rabid wolves is the least hellacious of the 5 toes, but I suppose it's something.

I'll update the blog when Lisa hits Baker. Assuming that she goes by it slow enough for them to register her time.

Furnace Creek ------> Shoshone (mile 326.39)

Just a quick update -- Lisa finished up the most brutal section of the race and clocked into the Furnace Creek Time Station at five minutes before 6:00 AM. (17 hours and 55 minutes)

NB: Never have an art major figure out your splits. If the race started at 7:00 AM on Saturday morning, I can safely say -- after 6 hours of careful study -- that 18 hours later cannot be 6:00 AM on Sunday, unless Lisa cycled through a worm hole in Towne's Pass.

According to sources who are knowledgeable in these sorts of things, 7:00 AM plus 18 hours = 1:00 AM, not 6:00 AM.

No recent news from the crew, but checking in with their Spot, we can see that Lisa is indeed closing in on Shoshone. Spot 1 is her location at 07:49:33 a.m and Spot 2 is her location at 09:19:56 a.m.

Trona -----> Furnace Creek (mile 252.89)

Ole Eichhorn has done an amazing "route recon" page for the 508, and here's the description of the Trona to Furnace Creek 99 mile stretch.

This is definitely the "queen stage" of the whole ride, with plenty of rollers, long flats through the desert, a massive climb, and a massive descent at the end down into Death Valley. And much of it will be ridden in the dark, whew. Not to mention an uneven road surface through the Panamint Valley.

The only good thing about this stage is that Lisa could do it with her eyes closed. Yes, it's the same place she was just 12 weeks ago, only on two feet instead of two wheels. Not including all those Death Valley training camps, I count at least 10 times Lisa's been racing out there on those roads. She knows what she's doing, which is the only thing that keeps us from going completely out of our heads with worry.

California City ------> Trona (mile 153.78 mi)

here's Lisa in the stretch between California City (TS#1) to Trona (TS#2). This section is where the heat blasts hardest, apparently. Look at a topographical map, and you'll see long expanses of flat desert. (In fact, this route passes the Honda "Proving Center"). But maps are deceptive, as they don't show the phenomenon known as "Desert Rollers".
Lisa & Crew blasted through the rollers and hit the Trona Time Station at 9 hours and 41 minutes.

Now on to Lisa's home-away-from-home: Furnace Creek.

Lisa's "spotted"

Thanks to one of her incredible sponsors, we've been able to locate Lisa despite her crew being out of Blackberry range.

Spot Tracking Device has a page where we can log in and get the whereabouts of Lisa's last message which indicates not only that she's okay, but that she's right about here:Actually, she passed that a while ago (at 3:43 PM) but it's such a nifty thing to be able to spot her whereabouts on a map that I just had to share it with y'all.

As for the latest update, you can check out the webcast on the official 508 site, right here.

Whoooooooooosh.....

...is the sound Lisa makes as she flies by. She came into Time Station #1 (California City) in 5 hours and 19 minutes at 12:20, with 83.60 miles behind her... And she's lookin' good is what we hear from our trusty crew.

AND SHE'S OFF!

How can she go wrong with a crew like this?

And yes-- it's true. Cathy Cramer doesn't even need to open her eyes to crew. She's that good, folks.

But before we get to the video sent by Leigh, straight from this morning's 7:00 AM start (complete with soundtrack of Leigh "woo hoo!-ing") let's take a look at those moments of tension and anxiety that must fill the minds of all elite athletes the morning of the race.

Indeed, we all ask "what must they be thinking right now?". Well, here's your answer.

Give me some @&*!$#% coffee. Now.

now onto the video.

508 = 500,000!

Just 14 hours before Lisa hits that starting line for the Furnace Creek 508, the news officially came in. Thanks to everyone who has donated.

= Lisa's 810 has raised half a million dollars =

That's $500,000.00 of which 100% is going straight to help those kids who need so much to be able to succeed. Sister MaryBeth is right now in Brazil working right now to help AIDS Orphans. Let's see how much we can raise OVER this amount!

Chronic Achilles Tendonitis

FROM LISA: I learn so much from each of my students…including Dr. Christiane Gardner.

Christiane is a new student and I plan to help her get back into the best shape of her life. Chris has an amazing background… she was a member of the National Cross-Country Championship team for two years in a row, she won the junior national 30km championship in 1978, and more recently she coached Camden Hills Regional Hills School girls XC team from 1999-2004. I feel honored to be coaching Dr. Chris!

In addition to her running talents, Christiane is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and the American Board of Podiatric Orthopedics. From 1990-1992, she was the Assistant professor of podiatric sports medicine and biomechanics at the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine. From 1992-2008, Chris led a private practice in Rockport, Maine. And currently, Chris serves as the Chief of Podiatry Service and Director of Podiatric Medical Education, VA Eastern Kansas Health Care System.

Christiane has offered to talk to any students who are having feet trouble and she has already helped a few! Thank you, thank you!

And here are some thoughts from Christiane about a condition you may have experienced…and ways for you to avoid it.

Chronic Achilles Tendonitis
By Dr. Christiane Gardner

It is estimated that achilles tendonitis accounts for 11% of all running injuries. This percentage increases as the runner ages. If you are reading this, chances are you have suffered from achilles tendonitis.

First, a short anatomy lesson. The achilles tendon is the largest and most vulnerable tendon in the body. It joins the calf muscle (gastrocnemius and soleus) to the heel of the foot. This muscle - tendon complex is responsible for plantarflexion of the foot and is what allows us to propel ourselves forward while running. While tendons are strong, they are not very flexible and they can only go so far before they become inflamed and tear or rupture. Unfortunately, the achilles tendon has poor blood supply which is why it is so slow to heal.



What causes Achilles Tendonitis?

The biggest cause of chronic achilles tendonitis is ignoring early warning signs and pushing through the pain of early achilles tendonitis. If the achilles tendon is sore, you need to pay attention to it immediately!

Other causes include:
· Increasing mileage too soon;
· Excessive hill running;
· Sudden addition of speed work;
· And/or wearing running shoes past their expiration date (see below)

Biomechanically, excessive pronation or flattening of the medial arch can cause achilles tendonitis. When the foot flattens too much or stays flat for too long, the achilles tendon is twisted abnormally. Over time, this twisting can cause microtears in the tendon leading to inflammation and even further damage. Imagine a tight rope where a few fibers begin to unravel and you get the idea. Worn running shoes can also lead to achilles tendon issues for the same reason.

Symptoms

Symptoms of acute achilles tendonitis include:
· Pain of the tendon during exercise
· Swelling of the tendon
· Feeling a "creaking" sensation within the tendon as you move the foot (this is swelling of the tendon sheath).

If acute achilles tendonitis is not treated, chronic achilles tendonitis often follows.

Symptoms of chronic achilles tendonitis include:
· Pain and stiffness in the tendon especially in the morning
· You may feel nodules within the tendon, usually about 2 cm above the heel
· Pain in the tendon especially when climbing stairs or walking up hill

This pain can be a long term persistent problem

Treatment

The best treatment is to listen to your body. If your achilles tendon becomes painful, cut back on your activity, stop running hills and ice, ice, ice! If you can treat this problem early, you reduce the pain and frustration of dealing with chronic achilles tendontis!

Replace your running shoes if they have seen better days.

Place a temporary heel lift in both shoes. This will take the strain off the tendon. Once the tendon is not painful, remove the lifts.

Careful, gentle stretching can help but too much stretching or too aggressive a stretch can contribute to the problem. Please do not stretch your achilles tendon by hanging your heel off a stair. It is difficult to control the stretch, and if the tendon is already inflammed, you may risk tearing the tendon.

Once you have tried the above and are frustrated with your progress, it is time to seek help from a sports injury professional. Physical therapy may be needed to strengthen the calf muscles. Ultrasound and massage therapy may be indicated. New running shoes or orthotics may be needed to reduce pronation.

Please do not allow anyone to inject the achilles tendon with cortisone. Medical literature has many cases of complete achilles tendon ruptures after direct injection of cortisone into the tendon.

Many articles have been written on the beneficial effects of eccentric exercises in the treatment of achilles tendonitis. In this exercise, stand with your hands on a railing or desk for support, using your good leg, rise up on your toes, now put your injured leg down toes first, transfer your weight to the injured leg and SLOWLY lower your body down until your affected foot is flat on the ground. Repeat this 10 times.

In summary, chronic achilles tendonitis can be frustrating and seem to take forever to heal. You can reduce your chances of developing this and other injuries by listening to your body. A few days off in the early stages of an injury can prevent months of seemingly endless rehab!

2 posts in one day:)

To be honest the last post with all the photos sent before I was ready. I hate to delete it due to so many who get the posts via feed system!

The photos:) So many people are responsible for where I am today with the 810 let alone the 508 bike race. www.lisas810.com
As of today we have raised $435,000 since May 1st, our goal is $500,000!

The photos are just a few of them and those who have trained with me:)
Casey Cox: great friend and training partner

Colleen Woods: great friend and training partner: On the bike and what a shot on the mountain this weekend!!!

Annie Fenn: great friend and training partner

Cathy Crammer: great friend, lead crew person for the 508 and impossible for me to keep up with:)

Sister Marybeth: great friend and the entire reason behind the 810 project!

Annabella and Gabby: the loves of my life along with there daddy Jay! These 2 kids have let me
pull them on my bike so many times! How many people have a 5 year old that will say..hey mommy let's for go a bike ride and sit for 3 hours singing and telling me stories as well as this: GO MOMMY GO!!!

I thank: George, Scott, Annmarie, Leigh, Terry and Sister for there amazing work and help with the run section of the 810 project.

I thank: George, Jim, Janie and Cathy for stepping up and praying we all see the finish line of the 508!!!

I thank: Ed, Juan, Aran and Leigh for helping me get the bikes that will be the key to my success in many ways...

I thanks: Marriane, Ted, Colleen, Sam, Jerry for there endless work on the blog and letters sent out.

I thank: all of my sponsors for there endless belief in me!

I thank: Trevor and Mike for taking a large part of your weekend to help with the bikes and helping with our kids so we had the time to get ready to leave!

I thank: Jay who has bent over backwards to help get me ready for this race in more ways than I can ever tell you. I thank my kids for loving me just the way I am.

I know I have missed a ton of people on this list. I hope you will forgive me if I have not mentioned you and hope you know I am thankful. I sent this letter out on the weekend.

Well as far as I am concerned I am done training for the 508!!! I did 5 hours on Friday and close to 4 hours today..today was a very strong head wind up the Teton pass. I about cried to celebrate when I got to the top knowing that it was down hill home..Guess what? The wind changed directions and it was a head wind home to!
Colleen road 4 hours with me on Friday and 2 on Sat. yeah...this was so great!
Sunday I will ride 2 hard hours up and down Targhee which is a good climb and then that is it. ( I did this ride and it took my 5 min. less than usual, a good sign:))
I am going to leave on Monday and head towards Calif. It is time for me to wrap my head around the 508 miles. I know I am going to be in pain, suffer, cry and it is going to be the hardest work I have ever done...Part of my is looking forward to the hard and to push myself to a new place...I am scared although I know fear is my friend. I feel I have done ALL I can do to train for this race. At the starting line I will have NO saddle soars, 2 amazing bikes thanks to Leigh and another friend..I am so thankful for these bikes you will never know!
To the run crew and to the bike crew and to all of you who have helped make this journey for me what it is today...I could have NEVER come to where I am today without any of you.
To my amazing family: I am thankful for all of you and thankful you continue to allow me to grow and be who I am. Thank you for your endless love and for coming along with me for the ride!
There are never going to be enough words to thank you. When I cross the finish line of the 508 you will all be with me and we can all share tears of hope and tears of joy knowing that we have been something part of history making as well as something extraordinary.
I ask you to all pray for me, for the crew,and for all those who toe the line at the 508, for the crews and families and then to all of you. Pray that God will lead me, guide me, test me and allow me an extraordinary race full of everything and then some...
Thank you.
God Bless and love you all Lisa
Hey..Happy Butt:)

It is not to late to make a donation!!!! www.lisas810.com
MY FRIEND JOE MADE IT TO LA THIS MORNING ON HIS BIKE!!!! Now this is something to celebrate.

Furnace Creek 508 here we come...Many photos:)