Update from the Big Apple!

Go 'head & leave a comment...

Lisa may not read them now, but I know she'll love to look back and read them when she's done! :-)



Hello!

This is Lisa’s friend, Colleen Woods. I had the opportunity to see the Run Hope Team yesterday as they came through NY. It was awesome to see them and it was really cool to see Lisa going so strong. As she looped the Reservoir of Central Park many times, she was smiling and happy for all the friends who came to run with her…including one student who completed all 50 miles.

So Lisa has now completed 100 miles (50 in New Jersey and 50 in NY) and is she is in Avon, CT to bang out another 50. Ay caramba!

Here are a few things I noticed this week:



FAMILY: Lisa is so happy that she has been joined by three of her siblings for the start of Running Hope through America. The Smith siblings have been enjoying a great reunion!

ENERGY: The energy of each state seems to be building already. Lisa was glowing about NJ, so touched by the Villa Walsh Academy girls that showed up at the start with her, the friends who did all 50 miles, and the “freshies”, the term the group started to use as new people came and joined in for some miles.

Read more about the NJ 50 miles.


GENEROSITY: The generosity of people who come to see Lisa is enormous. People were arriving with chocolate chip cookies, warm out of the oven. One woman just up and gave Lisa her iPod so Lisa would have some new and interesting music for the miles to come. Her students brought watermelon and sandwiches. And the contributions to the special charities that will benefit from the run are mounting already.

In fact, there is so much generosity going on, it’s hard to keep track! But maybe I’ll just mention a few of my friends here…including:


For sending Lisa off with high hopes and much love, the Teton Valley gals (Heather, Nancy, Susy, Tammy, Sharon, & Corina) who just scored their own hardware in Las Vegas

For making sure Lisa had a great arrival to the East Coast, there’s awesome Will Abrams

For hosting a big party at a great bar in Manhattan to mark the start of this epic adventure, there’s Heidi Weinkam

For supporting the idea of this whole big adventure, there’s Ed Mafoud. I wanted to make a special shout-out to Ed and his company, Damascus Bakeries…and it is not just because yesterday Ed gave me the most yummy pitas that I am munching on right now with some hummus! Ed lives in NY and I met him out in the Tetons back in 2006 when he came out for a Dreamchasers camp. Actually, we first met even earlier when we were both training with the Leukemia and Lymphoma’s Team in Training group. Ed is a guy who is so generous…his family is clearly his priority, and he accepts his responsibility as a role model for his children so gracefully. He contributes his time and support to numerous charities and his special connection with Sister Mary Beth is really touching. Ed did 50 miles in NJ with Lisa and came to NY yesterday to bring her in for the last 10 miles in NY. Go Ed!

http://www.damascusbakery.com/

And Connie Carpenter, who called her brother Daniel Carpenter of Simsbury CT., who donated the ride from Perfect Rides Limo company http://www.perfectrides.com/ Way to travel in style!

CAMARADERIE: It is so cool to see how people show up and bond with each other – reminds me of ultra races. People are coming out in numbers to show their support, including runners, walkers, their spouses, their kids, even some unsuspecting work colleagues who want to check out what this is all about.

THE CREW: I am sure each crew member will be acknowledged as the miles build, but I just want to point out how generous it is of these individuals (Marianne DeMarco, Mike Smith, Mike Evans, and Ashley) to contribute their time and energy to making this happen. I am sure it will be a dare-to-be-great experience for them, too!

Keep on truckin’…you guys rock!

ps – Thanks to Lucimar Araujo for the great pics from NY!

Off and running.....

The Boston Marathon just started about 8 minutes ago, and Lisa's already logged 21 miles.

The local news was here to shine a big bright light in Lisa's eyes and capture it on film. And we were incredibly lucky that the unbelievably talented Tom Sperduto showed up which means we'll have more incredible photos like the one to the left.

Are they cute runners, or what? Hubba hubba.

We'll start tweetin' soon so look for information on that. And while you're keeping a look out for new stuff, we'll let you know when you can start tracking us all across the country with our fancy-pants Satellite GPS Messenger from Spot!

Stage 3 of The Marathon des Sables

Hi everyone! Well the fast pace has hurt many people as well as the heat. Many have had to pull from the race, are sick from the heat...This race is so much about pace and staying in your own race. Many of the Dreamchasers are doing so awesome! Meghan Hicks, Jenny Vogel, Mike Waridan, our Jay Batchen:) Send them emails...the long day is on Wed. it is going to be one very hard, long day for all of them. One very long, hot test. The journey will be something I look forward to hearing about.
Below is a GREAT update from Jen Waridan, Mikes beautiful wife.
Thanks so much
Lisa



Hi all, Stage 3 was a tough day for Mike. He finished 16th today which bumps him back to 4th overall, 1 hour and 4 minutes back from the leader, 30 minutes back from 3rd place.

He called this afternoon and we had a long chat -- he said the lead group went out strong and kept a fast pace, he held on for as long as he could but the heat got to him. He regrets not slowing down sooner, he thinks if he had backed down 10 seconds per mile he would have had a stronger finish but in true Mike fashion said, "I couldn't let them just run away from me." He walked into CP 3, vomitted a few times and kept walking for quite some time. He sounded weak when I spoke with him and was stunned to hear he was as far back as he is. He assured me he's OK and has been drinking a lot of water and will be able to handle tomorrow's long stage.

He also said one of his tentmates was bitten several times by a spider in her sleeping bag and was foced to drop out when her leg inflamed. He was more concerned about this than his own state!

Apparently there's a one day delay in messages being sent each way so please keep sending notes, he's very greatful for all of the e-mails!

Here's the link to send messages, sometimes it jams up and you have to retry, again he's number 698:
http://www.darbaroud.com/uk/html/mds/general/uk_25mds_ecrire.php

Here's the race's recap of Stage 3:
Check point 1 (km 12.8) is only reached at great pains by many competitors.Including Touda Didi (D3-MAR), last years’ winner on the women’s side, who struggles to follow the pace set by her challenger Monica Viladomiu Aguilera (1020-SP). 10 minutes behind the Spanish runner, Didi is dehydrated and has to get medical help. Sadly, the Moroccan icon must withdraw from the race. She probably couldn’t recover from the huge efforts she had to make yesterday to try to keep up with her Spanish rival.Further along the track, Michael Wardian (698-USA) tries to keep up with the pace imposed by the two Jordan runners, Salameh Al Aqra (391 -JOR) and Mohammad Alswaiti (D390- JOR), whilst Mohamad Ahansal (1 - MOR) seems to be waiting, ambushed in a group just behind, with the rest of the top ten runners.Today’s stage features no major technical difficulties but endless straight lines and a hellish heat (especially after midday when the cloudy veil protecting the competitors evaporated) that reminds everyone that the sun is sole master here.
Heat stroke for Michael Wardian (698-USA)
Mohamad Ahansal (1 - MOR) yet again wins the stage, before Salameh Al Aqra (391 -JOR) and Jorge Aubeso Martinez (989-SP) who gives an astonishing performance, whilst US runner Michael Wardian (698-USA) loses 46’ 29’’, a victim to his eagerness to stick to the top of the race.The best runners reach the bivouac around midday, their faces sometimes showing clear signs of exhaustion. For the lesser runners, the stage has now begun to feel like martyrdom.

And here's an e-mail I received yesterday from Mike recapping Stage 2:
Jennifer & All, feeling good now, had some stomach problems last night but took immodium and feeling marvelous today. Some huge climbs (could you follow with the GPS?), want to get pictures, they were epic, unbelieveable running right on the edge of these huge mountains (they had safety ropes) and then jaw dropping decents though dried out river beds with huge rocks and boulders. It was so beautiful but Mohammed was very strong, really incredible, he dropped us all and gained another 9 mins, I was able to put some good time into people too but not 9 mins, that is unbelieveable. Aziz, the guy that was 2nd last year dropped (he helped me on the 1st day by telling me where to run like a dog, snapping at me) and Muatfha (#4) had a tough day so I need to stay strong and well and I should be able to continue to improve. Need to catch a break with Mohammed, I am not giving up, he has to beat me each and every day but I am impressed. My tent is good, food is great (enjoying your granola bars now).

No photos of him from Stage 3 posted though they add throughout the day so perhaps there will be something here later:
http://www.darbaroud.com/uk/html/mds/25mds/photos/uk_25mds_photos_0406.php

No Stage 3 videos yet either.
Tomorrow is the long day, runners will have Wednesday & Thursday to complete 82.2K. He said he'd call tomorrow when he's done Stage 4.

Not sure how much rest I'll get tonight but I'm very relieved he'll still have his race-issued GPS for tomorrow's stage!

Marathon des Sables Stage 2

The photo below is Katherine from the UK, both Men's and Women's Winner last year! Mohamad Ahansal and Didi Taida! Right now Mohamad is leading the race and Didi is in 2nd place. I spoke to Mohamad before the race and he said he was going to take it easy the first few days and that he has trained harder this year for the race then any other year. Looks like Mohamad may be working harder then he thought he would have to with USA Mike Wardian running on his heals! This year the course looks so amazing. It was warm enough last night that they did not even have to sleep in there sleeping bags! I have a strong feeling the race is really going to heat up and many positions are going to change on day 4 the long day. Many people have gone out way to fast for the heat to come and the course which I have run before. More people have dropped out by day 2 then in the past years, always sad to see anyone name on the list who have had to stop the race. It takes such dedication, drive to get there. Sending them all our very best!
Right now in the lead for the Men:
Mohamad Ahansal
Mike Wardian who is about 9 min. behind 1st
Salameh Al Agra who is about 3 min. behind 2nd

For the USA:2nd overall is Kyle McCoy
3rd overall is Meghan Hicks who is running awesome. She is 1:35 behind the lead women
4th overall for the USA is Ed Ackerly
5th is our Jay Batchen!!! Honest..he has run 10 miles a week and played ice hockey 3-4 times a weeek!

6th overall Greg Pressler!
7th Lane Vogel
8th Jenny Vogel

The leaders for the Women:

Monica Aguilera
Didi Taida: she is just 7 min. behind Monica
Jolanda Linshooten: she is 11 min. behind Didi


Here it is where you can read more...send them ALL emails..it is such a joy to get emails. The bring them to your tent at night:)
http://www.darbaroud.com/index_uk.php




THIS IS A GREAT RECAP THAT JEN WARDIAN SENT FROM MIKE!!!

Stage 2 (35K) another great day for Mike -- he finished 2nd again, less than 2 minutes back from the leader and is now about 9 minutes off of 1st place. He also lengthened his lead over 3rd place to 3 minutes.

I received this message from him earlier:
Today was great, I ran strong but Mohammed got away (think he has 8 mins) on a climb and I thought I would roll him up on the flat (like the other guys) but he was strong and ran smart. I am feeling fantastic and while I ran hard I didn't expend all my energy and have been able to eat and rehydrate since the finish so I will be in good shape for tomorrow. My pack is terrific and the water bottle holder is $$$, I was through the CP (check point) as fast as the Moroccians/Jordians and much faster than the guys with bottles, so cool and I am so glad that I decided to go with this pack. I did have one scary moment where I looked down (don't know why) and saw that the front pack was open and my Compass and Roadbook (both required) were exposed. I zipped up and rolled up the 2nd guy but was freaking that I was going to get a penalty or DQ, I didn't. Pack was 8.4K after stage.

Here's a snippet from the race's recap of Stage 2:
Just after CP 3, at the foot of the mountain, hell starts.The sensation is of thighs in fire and lungs gasping for a bit of oxygen in the overheated air.Mohamad Ahansal (1 - MOR) is top of the race when he gets there and he climbs calmly but with great determination. He stops once in a while to relax his legs but he never looks back. A few minutes behind him is US runner Mickael Wardian (698-USA) who doesn’t seem to be suffering too much either. Further down, Salameh Al Aqra (91 -JOR) seem to be playing it safe in this particularmly difficult area.

Here's a good shot of him (currently image 2 of 14) from Stage 2 today (Monday):
http://www.darbaroud.com/uk/html/mds/25mds/photos/uk_25mds_photos_0405.php

He's also featured in the 3rd video on this page:
http://www.darbaroud.com/uk/html/mds/25mds/videos/uk_25mds_videos_0405.php
And again, here's the link to send him a message, (he's #698):
http://www.darbaroud.com/uk/html/mds/general/uk_25mds_ecrire.php

80-100 miles of Run and Walking for the Children of Haiti!

Some great photos of some wonderful people:) We had over 100 men, women and children come run, walk or bike during our fund raising event for the children of Haiti. It was a great success. We are so thankful for all who came to join for the weekend and we are thankful to Teton Springs Resort for being such a great place to put on an event!

This Coming Weekend: Join Us for 80 for Haiti!

Hi friends!!!!

I hope you will join us this week Friday-Sunday for RUN OR WALK 80-100 miles for the Children of HAITI!! Lisa Smith-Batchen will lead off this run and walk and she prays you will come and join her! http://www.runhope.com/

When: 12 noon on Friday, March 5th- 12 Noon on Sunday, March 7th, 2010

Where: Teton Springs Resort & Spa in Victor, Idaho

What will I do? Either a 1 mile or 2 mile flat loop around the Resort. Solo run or walk for 80 to 100 miles or make your own team!

How do I enter? This is a Run/Walk to raise money for children who many never have a home again. Let’s all do our share and help them! There are NO t-shirts, NO awards, and NO aid stations.

**Email Lisa Smith-Batchen: lisa@dreamchaserevents.com to be part of this great event!**

How much do I have to pay? Every individual who is going to Run or Walk 1 mile should do their very best do donate or fundraise $80 to $100 per person, whether you are going solo or are on a team!

Checks should be made out to "The Dreamchaser Foundation" which is a 501C3 and 100% of your money is going to get to the children in Haiti!

Below is the link to the Dreamchaser Foundation. Lisa Smith-Batchen is the President and Sister Marybeth Lloyd is the Vice President. http://www.runhope.com/DCF.html

PLEASE CONSIDER JOINING us on this once in a lifetime run to help children who need our help. Imagine how great our life is each day. We wake up to a nice bed, a nice shower, great food. We are truly blessed and fortunate!!

PLEASE stay at Teton Springs and make this a great time for yourself. $80 for a room is a very kind gift from Teton Springs. Lisa plans to have child care for kids to be able to hang out for part of it. Lisa also plans to stop running for dinner and enjoy the hot tub and even the Spa on Friday and Saturday evening.

Call Teton Springs at (877) 787-8757 and reserve your room. The rooms have 1 large beds in each and are so, so comfortable.

"ALONE WE CAN DO SO LITTLE, TOGETHER WE CAN DO SO MUCH"

__________________________________________________

On April 19th Lisa Smith-Batchen will begin her 2,500 mile run in NJ
and run 50 miles through ALL 50 states
to raise 1 million dollars for orphans all over the world.

“Running Hope Through America”
The run will finish on June 19th in Jackson Hole Wyoming
coming over the Teton Pass
to the Welcome to Idaho sign at the border of Idaho!

Can you live a Sugar Free life???

Hi friends...

I so love all who are coming on board to work towards a healthier way to live!

You do know we only have one body is this lifetime and if you destroy it where are you going to live?

For most of my life I have watched what I eat. Coming from an eating disorder background and considering myself recovered I know a great deal about how one feels when you eat a ton of sugar and when you live without sugar.
I am sure not a pro on the topic and can only speak on my experience!

Sugar free living does not mean 10 diet cokes a day, 10 sugar free cookies or anything that sells itself as "sugar free". Most sugar free products are loaded with some kind of products that are as bad as sugar is for you.
Look at diet soda and look at the sodium and the junk in the drinks! People who want to loose weight who drink a great deal of diet soda usually end of gaining weight due to the bloating and the sodium.
When all the sugar free products came out on the market so many were stuffing them down but still gaining weight? Can anyone tell me why?

I personally have not really done any races for the past year. I felt that I need a break and that Running Hope Through America would take all I have in me to get off the ground but also physically, mentally and spiritually.
My ego is NOT attached to RHTA, my heart is and so it is the gift that God has given to me..some say it is a calling, I say that it is what I have been training my entire life for!
I told myself that for 1 year I would allow myself to eat anything I wanted to..I had watched the food I put into my mouth for so many years..I kind of felt deserving!
Cake, cookies, ice cream..you name it I went for it!!
The year passed in Oct. and then did Nov., Dec....and as Christmas arrived last year I really have to tell you I was sick and I mean sick of even thinking that a handful of cookies might sound like a fun snack!!
I had a roll on my stomach that had never been there and as much as people say it is part of age that roll had to go!

7 weeks ago I went cold turkey and gave up the sugar and the roll is GONE...yes it is all gone and I have my six pack stomach back. All my clothes fit again.

I AM NOT ON A DIET, THIS IS NOT A DIET...this is a way of life!!!
The word diet is s sabotaging and when someone goes on a diet they feel such a loss when they have to miss the cake or cookies.
Once you wrap your mind around a way of life it becomes a way of life just like brushing your teeth!!!
If you don't brush your teeth your teeth feel awful, when you load your body with sugar and junk your body feels like junk!

Living a sugar free life is not easy but it is so possible!!! You have to shop and read the labels on the things you buy in the store!

An article I read in Men's Journal a while back by Steve Nash: said that an average American eats about 92 grams of sugar a day, when the human body needs only eight grams for energy, an amount that can come from from natural sugars, fresh fruits, vegetables and grains.Refined sugars impair your immune system. Nash says: One teaspoon of refined sugar suppresses our white blood cells for up to six hours, making it a lot easier to get sick.

I personally was already off sugar when I read the article but was so happy to read what Steve Nash had to say...
This means...no cake, cookies, M&Ms, no juice from concentrate!!!! Read the labels...there are soooooo many choices for you.

I gave up gels while training for now and eat fresh fruit...After 10 days I had no craving for sugar at all, it was gone. An apple, handful of grapes never tasted better!
Making my own juice and smoothies is something we do in our home many days a week now.

Training for 2,500 miles in 62 days takes being the best I can be. Running 2,500 miles in 62 days is going to require me to be better than my best.
Living a sugar free life is helping my training, recovery, sleeping like a baby and I am not worn out!!!

So...how many of you are on board to give it a try?

Share your food for thought!

Running on real food
Lisa
www.runhope.com

Lisa Training Schedule for week of Feb. 15h

I am so thankful for all the wonderful people who live in Teton Valley. It sure is great to be able to send out an email, post a note on FB and find people who love to do the same things!

Last week was a great week of training for me personally...I usually don't total up miles but I did this time. 82 miles! Today was 20 miles in 3:45 min. 15 min. faster than I did the same course 3 weeks ago! Yeah...
The weather in the Tetons has been so amazing that is has made going outside each day a real joy!

Friday: Nancy, Susie, Tammy and Mike pushed the heck out of me with there speed work and pushing the pace....it is no wonder why Sat. morning they were all waiting for me at 6 am and I was fast asleep with the alarm clock beeping in my ear until 7:30!!!! I missed the entire run but the sleep was what I needed.

Monday: Feb. 15th: 6-9 am...I will start running from Dreamchasers and then get back just in time to teach 9-10:30 cardio core. NO run after class. School is out and I have told my kids I would spend the day with them:)

Tues. Feb. 16th: 5-7 am from the bottom of my driveway

Wed. Feb. 17th :5-7 am from the bottom of my driveway, then 9-10:30 cardio core class followed by 2.5 hour easy run and walk.

Thursday Feb. 18th: 6-7 am cardio core class, 8:30-9:30 am cardio core class followed by 2.5 hours run and walk.

Friday Feb. 19th: anyone up for 40 miles with me????? Run and walk from Driggs to Rexburg!!!! I will carry a pack with supplies!!! Leave 6am from Dreamchasers! We will have to find a ride back home...

Sat. Feb. 20th: 6-9 am walk only

Sunday: OFF!!

Hope to see your smile some place.
Blessings
Lisa
www.runhope.com

Great Women of Teton Valley

It was such an honor to present

at the Great Women of Teton Valley series

last week.

Thank you to all the GREAT WOMEN who attended

and who filled the Penny Jar!!!

And of course, love to my l'il girls!!!

xox

Feeling so so good

What a great few days of training I have had.

My 2 a day run and walks have started but it is really more like 3-4 a days with all the cardio core classes I am teaching!

Sunday was awesome!!! I had the best run and walk I have had in a long time. 2 hours average 6 mph...my power walking is feeling really great at 4.8 mph! Yeah..and I can tell you this is all due to my core work! Then 2 hours of cross country ski at Grand Targhee, another 1 hour power walk..and then, just in time for a fun super bowl party with John and Noras family!!!

Monday: 5-7 am was so COLD...I was determined to get out the door and it was all I could do t stay out there in the dark but I was thrilled when I came home to the nice warm hot chocolate!
1.5 hour cardio core class and another 2 hour run and walk with SPRINTS...yes Heather, Tammy and Susie all wanted to do sprints...I was shocked I had any sprints in my legs...Thank you ladies!!!
I fell asleep with my kids at 8pm!!!

Tues. 6-7 am cardio core class with some of the most amazing people..it was cold...-6!
Right after class I got dressed and out the door for over 3 hours..and to my shock I was running really well although my face was close to frozen!!!

Wed. I have decided to sleep in with my kids and do 3 hours of cross county ski with the girls!!!

I am so thankful that my body is getting in shape and fit. That I have no aches or pains and that I am actually having fun:):)
Thank you, thank you!!!

I hope your day was awesome to
Lisa
www.runhope.com

Lisa Training for Feb. 8th - 14th

Hi friends...would love to see you anytime:)

Monday Feb. 8th: 5-7 am bottom of my driveway
Teach cardio core 9-10:30
Right after class run and walk for 2 hours from Dreamchasers

Tuesday Feb. 9th: Teach cardio core 6-7 am
7:30-10:30 am run and walk from Dreamchasers

Wednesday Feb 10th: 5-7 am bottom of my driveway
Teach cardio core 9-10 am
10:30-1:30 CC ski in Teton Canyon
5:30-7 pm Take Yoga class at Dreamchasers

Thursday Feb. 11th: 5-7 am bottom of my driveway
8:30-9:30 Teach Cardio core
Right after class run and walk for 2 hours from Dreamchasers
5:30-6:30 Teach cardio core

Friday Feb. 12th: 5-7 am bottom of my driveway
Teach cardio core 9-10 am
Right after class 10:30-1:30 run and walk from Dreamchasers

Sat. Feb. 13th: 6-9 am Place to be determined

Sun. 9-11 from my house
1-3:30 cc ski at Targhee

Love to all
Lisa

1st update from Team USA running Brazil 135!

8:00 am - Marching band and mayoral send-off. Partly cloudy, not too warm.

18K to first crew meeting point, then on to the highest peak of the race. Crew stopped for lunch and beer in Andradas, then met team for second "pit stop".

Brian out fast and we lose contact with him. Tony, Ken and Jarom solid and steady, looking on pace for the 48 hour goal. Tom close behind.

Weather holds for the daylight hours. Go through miles of coffee and banana fields. Glad we're driving a rental car - bottom out repeatedly on steep, rocky roads.

Before 1st race food and heath checkpoint, Sue and Todd evicted from car as it becomes makeshift ambulance to take an injured runner back down to hospital. Car returns, minus translator.

11:00 pm - Rain begins, gently at first and then steadily. Dirt roads quickly turn to mud. Three support vehicles, with crew speaking English, Spanish and Portugese get lost and stuck in mud in small mountain town. Create biggest happening in years at 1am, with locals digging out car and directing back to correct location. Just in time to meet our 3, who were tired, but looking good. Currently at 20.5 hours (4:30am) and all looking forward to daylight and locating our translator!To be continued.

We all feel your support down here! Thank you!
Ken!

This is great! The 30-Second Rule

Here is an observation from John Maxwell that I hope you enjoy as much I as will today.


Subject: THE 30-SECOND RULE

When most people meet others, they search for ways to make themselve look good. The key to the 30-Second Rule is reversing this practice. When you make contact with people, instead of focusing on yourself, search for ways to make them look good.
Every day before I meet with people, I pause to think about something encouraging I can tell them. What I say can be one of many things: I might thank them for something they've done for me or for a friend. I might tell others about one of their accomplishments. I might praise them for a personal quality they exhibit. Or a might simply compliment their appearance. The practice isn't complicated, but is does take sometime, effort, and discipline. The reward for practicing it is huge, because it really makes a positive impact on people.
- 25 Ways to Win with People -

TAKE THIRTY SECOND WITH EACH PERSON YOU MEET TODAY TO ADD VALUE TO THEM

Dreamchasers Women's Camp Featured in Women's Running Magazine

We are so pleased to be featured in the latest edition of Women's Running Magazine. Below is an excerpt from the article Indulge in a Women’s Running Retreat, by Jayme Otto. Check out the January / February 2010 edition of the magazine and their great website at:
www.womensrunning.com


**Interested in attending the Second Annual Dreamchasers Women's Winter Wonderland Camp? Join us in Teton Valley from Tuesday, March 16 through Sunday, March 21st.**



E-mail colleen@dreamchaserevents.com for more details.




Article Excerpt:

Dreamchaser’s Women’s Running Camp
Teton Valley, Idaho
March 2010

Find a dream and chase it down in the Grand Tetons. Dreamchaser’s training camp is committed to helping women of all fitness levels set big goals and achieve them. This camp is for women ready to step outside of their comfort zones, on and off the trail. Endurance athlete and camp founder Lisa Smith-Batchen begins and ends camp with a gait analysis, so each gal has the opportunity to perfect her form. Expect three work-outs per day: one run and two other activities such as core work, yoga, Pilates, snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, hiking and aqua running. Certified coaches and experts lead all activities.

Accommodations: Luxuriate at the 780-acre Teton Springs Resort’s located 20 minutes from Jackson Hole, Wyo.

Cuisine: Meals take place at the resort’s Headwaters Grille, serving up mountain-style pub food. Or venture off on a sleigh ride dinner at nearby Grand Targhee Resort, featuring meats and veggies made to order in a yurt.

What to Bring: Gather lots of layers for this Winter Wonderland Camp. Don’t forget a hat and gloves and a bathing suit for the hot springs. Don’t worry about lugging your own equipment because all activity gear will be provided.

 

Here are some photos of a week’s worth of fun!

Snowshoeing!

Our Friends from Rexburg!





A Sleigh Ride Dinner!



The infamous CORE class!

The tire pull!

Cross-country Skiing!

Katsey & Lisa


Colleen & Liz

Marie & Lisa

Lunch at Julie's Awesome Yurt!

What shoes do you have on? I have my Hope shoes on!

DO YOU HAVE YOUR NIKES ON?
by Darcy Keith

When running in the race of life, what kind of shoes is on your feet? Are they high-heeled stilettos, loafers, house slippers, or tennis shoes? While we may be concerned with what is on our feet and how comfortable they are in the situation, if we don't have the right type of shoes on, we may not succeed.

I mean, a runner doesn't wear a pair of wrestling shoes if he is running a marathon. He wears the most appropriate running shoe that will go the distance. When you prepare to run, one of the first things you do is stretch to warm your muscles. If not, your body isn't prepared for what you are about to do.

But what about the race of life? There are many things, which come up for which we may not be prepared. You may be stressed out, suffering, and not know how to handle the situation. But, there is HOPE.

Hope that you can overcome whatever you are facing and be victorious.

As my pastor, Randy Gilmore, says, "Hope is confidence in present resources and ultimate good."
The word, Nike, is Greek for 'victory' or 'overcoming'. In the race of life, I want to have my Nikes on. For those of you who have heard one of my motivational presentations and me talk about my "shoe issues", when I tried out for the girls' basketball team in eighth grade (I couldn't find shoes big enough to fit me in the women's section, so I had to go the men's shoe area to find a pair), guess what tennis shoes I picked out? A new white pair of Nike hightops with a red swoosh. Though I didn't know if I would make the team, I had hope in wearing my Nike tennis shoes as I was prepared to do my best.
In the middle of life's storms where you may feel stretched, stressed out, are suffering, or something else may be going on in your life, Hope lifts our spirits as we go though the storm. God has generously provided a way to carry you through it. Having hope protects our minds, like a helmet.
Hope provides us a way out of our struggle and shields us, like an umbrella. Hope lifts our spirits from the storms in life, which may be dampened. Hope is having your Nikes on when facing your situation, as we are overcomers and victorious. There is power in hope!
Here are three thoughts to keep in mind when running in the race of life:

1. Look for hope in your present resources.
2. Surround yourself with friends and family who support you.
3. Seek guidance and assistance from others who can help you along your journey to reach the finish line.
Be victorious and have your Nikes on!

Last minute gifts at Dreamchasers!

Happy Holidays!!

Shop at Dreamchasers!

Store Wide Sale until 3pm Christmas Eve!!
Classes are in full swing during the holidays.
We are only closed starting Christmas Eve at 3pm for the 3:30 and 5:30 class.
Closed Christmas day and New Years Day. ALL other classes are being taught!

* Stop into Dreamchasers this week, email Lisa at lisa@dreamchaserevents.com, or call: 208-787-2077 to build and buy a package for yourself or for a loved one. Included in the package could be: massage, personal training, camp, on-line coaching, punch card, snowshoe or skate ski clinic, dinner for 2 at Teton Springs, products!

*If you would like to be sent a Dreamchaser product list please email Lisa at lisa@dreamchaserevents.com

*2010 SAVE the date DREAMCHASER FITNESS TRAINING CAMPS FOR "ALL LEVELS". CAMPS WILL BE HELD AT TETON SPRINGS LODGE AND SPA:VICTOR IDAHO

http://www.dreamchaserevents.com/lisasmithbatchen/camp_schedule.htm

1. ALL WOMEN!! MARCH 16TH-21st GUEST COACH: ROBYN BENICASA. ONE OF THE BEST FEMALE ATHLETES IN THE WORLD!

2. JULY 1ST-6TH: GUEST COACH: DAVID GOGGINS: ONE OF THE BEST MALE ATHLETES OF OUR TIME!

3. OCT. 5TH-10TH: GUEST COACH: KARL MELTZER: ONE THE BEST ENDURANCE RUNNERS IN THE WORLD

*Sat. Jan. 9th Snowshoe Run/Walk clinic as well as Skate Ski clinic. For all information email Lisa at lisa@dreamchaserevents.com

*We Now HAVE INJINJI TOE SOCKS: ALL COLORS AND EVEN THE COMPRESSION SOCKS :-P 15% OFF!

*YAK TRACKS: WALKER AND PRO! 15% OFF

*Crescent Moon Snowshoe Sale – 15% off...STOP INTO DREAMCHASERS, WE HAVE A LIMITED SUPPLY OF SNOWSHOES AND BOOTIES LEFT IN STOCK! *Are you interested in purchasing some new snowshoes for the winter season? If you are, then check out the models available at www.crescentmoon.com and send us your order as soon as possible. We like the “12s” for fitness and racing, but Crescent Moon offers a variety of models to suit your needs: from the backcountry to kids to ultralight ‘blanks’ for those looking to win snowshoe races! And keep in mind that they offer “booties” to keep your toes toasty! Contact us for additional information and keep in mind that we can drop ship anywhere in the US.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Dream Big! May All Your Dreams Come True!!!
Lisa Smith-Batchen www.dreamchaserevents.com

Lisa Tamaki runs ALL of New Zealand in 44 days!!!

I was sent this letter from my friend Mario...way to go Lisa, way to go!

Dear Friends,

Lisa Tamaki ran all the New Zealand in 44 days. To see the complete journey...... check the link : http://www.nzrun.co.nz/about/blog

Read Below the last day.....
Day 44- 14 December 2009

After an eventful night in Auckland...Jason and I were on the same flight from Auckland to New Plymouth as my main sponsor Murray Dick and his wife Jane from Taranaki Engineering. I thought it was quite fitting to share a flight back home so we could run the final leg together.We arrived at New Plymouth airport, and even though I was feeling rather jaded by not only the accumulative distance of run NZ but also the pre finish party at the Hilton, (thanks guys), however that jadedness disappeared once inside the terminal building to the wonderful reception from my supporters.In particular I acknowledge the attendance of those fantastic oldies from Riverview, complete with their handmade banner it was a fitting welcome back to the naki...but I wasn't finished yet.After a quick change we gathered outside to begin the final run into New Plymouth. There were quite a few runners, Kelvin from Frontrunner, the harriers, Kylie and his navigator on his tandem bike (good on ya mate), and many others of whom I am sorry I cannot name you all. After a quick safety brief from Megan we were off, at rather a slow pace until we all warmed into it.Sadly our trusty Toyota Prius's were not with us as some of the crew were rather late up this morning and we had to manage the final leg without our support vehicle, all was not lost though as Kelvins Front runner vehicle and Peggy managed the task well.It was amazing to be running down airport drive, people tooting and standing waiting for me, it was just such a special feeling. Led by Megan we turned onto the main road and the tooting and waving of the passers by again filled me with the drive to get to the end, so much so that Megan had to tell me to slow down as we were too far ahead of the scheduled finish.We picked up quite a few extra's as we headed into New Plymouth and before I knew it we were at the walkway where even more joined in.I am blown away by the support of the Taranaki people and felt proud to be running home with my mates and my sponsors at my side.
Sadly one person that was not there was my project manager, and sponsor, Jaron Mumby from Fire Design. He was away representing Taranaki at the North Island Surf Lifesaving IRB Championships so he had a worthwhile excuse! He and Chris Scott won 3 Gold Medals, so congrats guys on another great performance.Megan announced the final K to go and as we neared the windwand I could see more people waiting to cheer me on and share with me the moment of completion of this massive task.
As I ran onto Puke Ariki landing I could see Mayor Pete standing there waiting, we all ran, arms in the air, laughing and some were cheering here it is, THE END!.
I had done it, the finish...all those days and nights, all the work, the pain, the organising and arranging, and here I was, I had conquered the beast.... how do I feel... I don't really have the words to describe it... I am numb, excited, exhausted, so very grateful.
After the necessary formalities I needed to head home to change for my appearance at Christmas at the bowl. It was such a special moment to run into the bowl and be cheered on by the crowd. I was then welcomed onto the stage by Mayor Peter Tennent and treated to a special traditional Maori welcome and blessing, which was just such an honor, thank you to you all.
I would just like to thank all my amazing sponsors who helped make this dream a reality. Firstly to the NZ Run naming rights sponsor Murray Dick and Taranaki Engineering, your company sums up Taranaki! Your commitment and determination has meant everything to me. You your influence helped get me to the finish line and with your support this campaign would not have happened. To Kevin Gray and James Crighton from Tasman Toyota and Mark Young from Toyota New Zealand, your generosity and commitment to this campaign has been exceptional. The Toyota Prius vehicles you sponsored were amazing. If anyone is thinking of buying a new vehicle, please see the team at Tasman Toyota in Taranaki or any Toyota dealer nationwide if you live outside Taranaki, as Toyota really look after you and are the best people to deal with.To Bartercard, thank you so much for your amazing support. Barter is such a fantastic way to trade with businesses throughout NZ. If you are looking for a way to promote new customers within your business, then give Bartercard a call!Thank you so much to Pams for all the amazing food you sponsored, your amazing food kept me going through the length of New Zealand. Thanks to Steelformers for all your support over the last year. Always great to have such a proud Taranaki Company in behind you!Thanks to Kelvin and the team at Frontrunner and also the team at More FM for all of your great support.Thank you so much Interislander, Maui Campervans, Nature Spring Water, Mobilize and Waitara Travel. A big thank you to all the Motels and Hotels throughout New Zealand who sponsored accommodation. You were all such amazing people and I look forward to catching up with you all again one day soon. Thanks to Marco and the team at Buff for your support and manufacturing the official NZ Run Buff. If you are keen to buy a buff please click on the link on the home page. Buy a Buff and become one of the NZ Run team!Thanks to BIG Media for all of your promotional work. You guys are amazing. If you want your business to get noticed, call David Casey and the team at BIG Media as they are passionate about Taranaki and want your business to get noticed!Thanks to Jaron Mumby and Fire Design for all your creative input. You guys are just amazing and you seem to be able to find a creative solution for any problem throw your way! Lastly, thank you to my amazing crew. I owe you all everything for what you have all sacrificed to ensure I made it to the finish line. No one person can take on a task as large as what I did without having the best people in behind you to make it happen.
. Please keep spreading the word as we will keep fundraising to ensure we can help make a difference for these two amazing charities.Well! Here is the challenge!If I can run the length of New Zealand, then I know you may also be ready to take up your own challenge!If you think you can run, walk, crawl or roll a km per day for the next 14 days then we would love to have you on board with your own K PER DAY Challenge!Please click on the K PER DAY CHALLENGE link on the website and download your form!I know you can do it! It might just help your health, and by raising money through the process you might just help the life of a child affected with illness!So lets get to it! Start today! All it takes is a k!
Love to allLisa

Dreamchasers Dec. Class schedule and much more!

Hi Friends! Happy Holidays.

Dreamchasers opened a Fitness Facility about 2 months ago and on Dec. 4th we had our Open House. 120 adults and 40 children walked through the doors. It was an amazing night to say the least. We are thankful for the wonderful community we live in and for the belief and support.
I personally started Dreamchasers 28 years ago with a group of women in NJ. The motto was and still is " Find a Dream and Chase it down"

At our New Facility in Driggs Idaho we teach many classes for ages 2-100 plus:)
We are not a gym with machine, we are a Fitness Facility where we teach fitness to be fun, challenging, motivating, stretching, flexibility, strength and conditioning with "very little" equipment needed besides your own body.
We teach and believe in muscle confusion and stability core work.

We have children's classes 5 days a week.
M-F for 2-5 year olds: morning sessions
M-F 3:30-5 for 2-17: afternoon sessions.
Our teachers are extraordinary not only teaching fitness they are teaching children about good listening skills, discipline, self respect and respect for others.

All of our adults classes are taught by some of the most amazing professionals who live here.
From professional athletes to teachers with master degrees in education.

The energy is contagious at Dreamchasers.

SOMETHING NEW to Dreamchasers: Starting next Sat. Dec. 12th, Dreamchasers will open the doors from 12-5 every Sat. for parents to bring there children and go out for a "DATE DAY"!
As a parent I know first hand how difficult it is to find time to spend with Jay going running, ski or anything together without having to find someone to watch our children.
Reservations will be necessary to bring your children so that we can ensure to have the appropriate staff. 208-787-2077. The charge is $5 an hour for all children who are not in diapers or who need to be fed with bottles. The charge for children who need to be fed or in diapers is $6 an hour.
Your children will be engaged in many fitness activities, games, book reading, doing there homework if needed, arts and crafts.
Please bring a snack for your child, blanket if needing a nap and a bottle of water with there name on it.


Below is the link to the classes. Please wait a few moments for it to download:)

You don't have to sign up for a certain class. You buy a punch card and this allows you to come to any class you want to.
Adult punch cards are $90 and Kids punch cards are $50
For adults this means 1 hour class is $9 and 1.5 hour class is 13.50
For kids this means 1 hour class is $5 and 1.5 hour class is $7.50

Here is the link to the December Calendar
https://acrobat.com/#d=fUjlBiRAR4fzI6piyOawcQ


We hope to see you at our Dreamchasers facility or one of our camps, races and events in 2010.
All merchandise at Dreamchasers is now 15% off. For a product list please email me and I will email you one.
lisa@dreamchaserevents.com

Many Blessings and Happy Holidays.

Lisa