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Wednesday, February 25, 2009

A Shout out!

I just wanted to send a shout out to all you ladies running the Del Sol. Good Luck! Have fun! and...know that we are all pulling for you.

See you in June.

- Deni

RELAX!

Okay everybody take a deep breath and relax. I here there are people really nervous and stressed about what to bring. Don't be. If you don't bring enough money I will spot you and you can pay me back. If you forget an item, we will buy it when we get there or you can borrow mine. The only thing you have to have to run is a pair shorts, sports bra, shirt, socks, and running shoes. Notice I didn't even post undies, they are nice to have, but you can manage without. And if you're as flat as I am you can forget the sports bra too and it wouldn't matter. So please don't worry. If you forget something besides your running shoes, you'll be fine. Also I posted my packing list, so you can always referr to it after you get packed, as a check list/while your packing, whatever works. Bring $100 - $120 cash in 20s.Here is a list of what the money will be going towards. This is per person.

$3 for spaghetti dinner (I will pay $40, and you guys just pay the $3 once you get change. You can get change when we buy groceries.)
Van borrowing fee $20
gas money $40 (approx maybe less)
Hotel $30 (just for those that are staying in Mesa, and I don't need the money until we check in)
Food $20 (approx maybe less)

For anyting else you can use your checkbook, debit or credit card.

Don't worry about the money for the shirts. I will be paying for the shirts with the sponsor money. If it doesn't cover the whole cost, I will divide up whats left over and you can mail it to me.

Thursday, we are meeting in Mesa at 3:00pm at Lori Nelsons sisters her address is
3500E. Red Oak Ln. Gilbert, 85297. Incase you get lost call Lori 928-240-0293
Also if your spouse or family wants to meet you at the finishline that would be great!I hope this covers everything. Oh, one more thing, we already bought the running tail lights and paid for it with sponsor money. Thank you, Thank you, Sponsors!!!!

Please if you have any questions call Me 520 572-9191

Hey Sarah!

What did you find out about the lights? Do I need to stop and get some of those I emailed you?

Monday, February 23, 2009

Good News!!

We had enough sponsor money to pay for the shirts and even had money left over to pay for running tail lights (a new rule). So you just need to bring $20 for van rental, cash for gas and food and then if your staying the night in Mesa money for the rooms. I am planning on bringing $100.00 in $20's. That should be plenty. I am reposting my list of items for those that would like to use it as a check list. It's almost game time!!! Can't wait to see and meet alot of you! Be prepared for a fun wild weekend!

At least 2 headlamps per van it is nice to have more, but not mandatory.
At least 2 Reflecting vest per van it is nice to have more, because you can not get out of the van at night without a vest on. You will get penalized if caught.
2 running safety tail lights per van.
Sarah's list for packing
sleeping bag
pillow
toothbrush and paste
shampoo,soap,and things to make me pretty
Towel washcloth
deoderant(this is mandatory for van2)
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
2 longsleeve shirts for under race shirt.
1 windbraker just in case
1 ear warmer (thats for two ears) in case your wondering
1 pair of gloves
running shoes
1 pair of running pants
1 capri?
3 shorts
4 pairs of Socks and UNDERWEAR (ALSO MANDATORY FOR VAN2)
ipod
camera
Meds.
comfy clothes and slip on shoes for when I'm not running
1 pair of jammies
bag for my smelly clothes

Again you don't have to use this list, but it's here if you need it. Also if you guys have nay questions call me 520 572-9191. Those that have headlamps and vest bring them. It would be better to have to many, than not enough.
ALMOST TIME TO PUT YOUR GAME FACE ON!!!
OK, I just got mondo butterflies when I logged on and saw "3 DAYS" on the countdown!! Whoa!!

Up until this point I've been preparing my game for the race, I think I've done all I can for that.
Now I'm starting to get all my ducks in a row and trying to organize things for my husband and kids while I'm away (Utah girls, my hat goes off to you for making the trip!).

I'm coming across some questions...I'm sure I'll come across more as I keep checking things off my list. But here are a few I have now:

1. I know I owe people money. Shirts? Van? Food? Just tell me who and how much. Maybe I should just bring my checkbook?

2. What is the agenda for Thursday? What time are we meeting in Mesa? Where exactly?

3. Is there anything else (besides the list that was posted) that I should bring? I've never done this type of race before and if a veteran Ragnar Relay-er could give me some inside tips that would be awesome!

4. Should I have my husband meet me at the finish line? Totally unsure how that is going to work.

Alright, I think those are my major questions. Anyone and everyone feel free to shout out your answers! :)


I was telling Val, I feel a lot like a girl who's going to her first year of girl's camp and I want to bring everything just in case. I'm super nervous, but totally excited. I can't wait to meet all you wonderful woman and make some lasting memories!

Molly

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Almost Here!!

I am getting so excited!!! I am also a little stressed that I won't remember something or I won't be ready. I really am sooo excited!
About the ice chests, all you girls from Utah don't worry about them. I will get them round up and in the vans before we leave. It will be easier and not a big deal. Katrina don't worry about it. I can get them. I have 3 regular sized ones so if I can't find a couple of big ones I will just bring some of them. I will do my best to find the bigger ones if that is what everyone wants. I will get with Lori and take care of that, but thanks to everyone. Can't wait to see all of you.

Saturday, February 21, 2009

Del Sol here we come

Okay I am just a little excited for this whole race. It is going to be so much fun to be with all of you. I can't wait for all of you Utah runners to meet our totally kick a-- family. We rock! Mom I am so excited you are coming to be with your awesome daughters and their friends. This is going to be a great get away for all of us. I am warning you now, I will not be held responsible for my crazy actions. I am crazy all the time but I like to use the lack of sleep and exhaustion to excuse my normal behavior. I will see all of you utah girls Wednesday night. And the rest of you on Thursday. It's going to the best slumber party ever!!!!

Sarah ???

I was thinking do we have the really big ice chests for both vans? If not does anyone have those we will need the big ones. One for each van.

Nikki thanks for still running with me today. I know I was a total B---- the other day. I loved the run today I felt so good. Thank you for pushing me I know I will appreciate more when I am running the race.

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

illuminate vests

Hi gals;

We're (me and Sarah) are trying to figure out how many vests/headlamps we have and if we need to purchase any. I think we have enough headlamps but I'm not sure on the vests. Please let us know ASAP if you have one.
Katrina... I know you said you could look down in the valley if we need to get some, are you still open to do that - just in case?
I'm so excited to see all of you and I know this is crazy but I'm also so excited to introduce you to my mom and sister - I want to show all of you off!!! Our team of amazing runners!!! My sister is still planning on the Spaghetti dinner on Thursday so come with an appetite!
Last week of training...YAHOO

Oh, the sights, smells, and sounds

I went for a run yesterday and it was beautiful. While out, I kept thinking that I couldn't wait to get back and blog about it. I'm in Florida with my husband for a conference. While he's in class, I get to hang out. I went for a 10 mile run and it was wonderful. I think a 10 mile run here is equal to a 5 or 6 mile in Utah. There of course are not hills for me to run (no, that's really not a complaint) and elevation is 0, but I still carried my butt 10 miles. The sunshine, the light breeze on my face (and it wasn't coming from the fan of a treadmill), the sound of leaves on the street, the smell of freshly cut grass, the palm trees and the flowers. I just took it all in because I know I'm going home to SNOW! My husband doesn't run so he doesn't really understand how much of a joy that run was. Well, thanks for letting me share my run with you all. I'm getting so nervous for this race. Every time I log on I get butterflies in my stomach! Can't wait!! See you all soon.

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Utah Girls!

Karleen, Zhalore, and Em!!!
I was trying to think of a way to break our trip down and get to Mesa sooner and so I talked to Nikki about leaving Wed. evening (6:00p.m.) and driving to St. George and staying at my In-Laws Condo and then we could get to Mesa earlier in the day on Thursday. Nikki looked up on the internet and it will only add 52 miles to our trip but it will make it so we can get to Mesa by 3:00p.m. and we won't have to leave Utah so dang early. See what you think about it. The condo has plenty of room and we can just sleep on top of the beds with our sleeping bags and there are 2 bathrooms so we could get ready fast and just leave. Let me know what you think.
Kim

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Del Sol 2009

VAN 1
Kim - LEG 1
Raquel - LEG 2
Lori - LEG 3
Molly - LEG 4
Val - LEG 5
Emmily - LEG 6

VAN 2
Katrina - LEG 7
Marinda - LEG 8
Nikki - LEG 9
Zhalore - LEG 10
Sarah - LEG 11
Karleen - LEG 12

Okay here is the leg assignments. Hopefully this is final, since the race is only 11 days away. I hope all you feel good about your leg assignments and you're as anctious to get this race on as I am! I am very excited. Anyone that's feeling the pressure or nervous, don't be. Set a goal for yourself and try to reach it. My goal is always just don't walk, slow your pace just don't walk. Everyone knows what they're capable of, so set your goals accordingly. Make sure you don't set it to high, but challenge yourself. We are a team, but it's best if everyone sets their individual goals, and then as a team we cheer you on and help you try to reach them. We are going to have a GREAT TIME! And remember the team is your cheerleader and support not your critic. Can't wait to meet you all!

Friday, February 13, 2009

Only two more weeks!

Girls, I am totally freaking. Only two more weeks till THE RACE and I'm starting to get butterflies.
I'm running six miles a day and eight on the weekends. Should I be doing more? I'm the 4th runner (5m-hard, 4m-mod, 3m-easy).
I hate to say it, but I can't wait for the race to be over and done so that running every day can be fun again and not such a chore. Am I having a bad day or is this normal?
On a lighter note - I hope you all have wonderful Valentine's Days!! I plan on eating a whole box of turtle chocolates. :)

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Does this help to motivate you?

"The body does not want you to do this. As you run, it tells you to stop but the mind must be strong. You always go too far for your body. You must handle the pain with strategy...It is not age; it is not diet. It is the will to succeed." --Jacqueline Gareau

"I believe in the runner's high, and I believe that those who are passionate about running are the ones who experience it to the fullest degree possible. To me, the runner's high is a sensational reaction to a great run! It's an exhilarating feeling of satisfaction and achievement. It's like being on top of the world, and truthfully... there's nothing else quite like it!" --Sasha Azevedo

"You have a choice. You can throw in the towel or you can use it to wipe the sweat off of your face." --Gatorade commercial

Movie on the go

Hey this is for Kim and Em. Em, I hear that you hate to drive so I wanted to let you know I do have a DVD player that we use for my kids and so I will make sure I bring it so you don't get too bored.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Karleen's Help Me Speech

Well thanks for calling me out Lori because I am probably the least motivated out of both vans. I have no speeches. So far this week I ran 3 miles on Monday and on Tuesday. The only good thing about my runs was that I had it on a 10% incline. You would think the race is this week I don't know what I am thinking. Anyway, Lori I think I am being punished for the phrase that I said at the beginning of my last run during Wasatch. Did you notice I am the last runner. I think Sarah did that on purpose.
OK I am going to post the rest of my runs for the week so you guys hold me to it.
Thursday: 8 miles
Friday: 6 miles
Saturday: 10 miles
Well there is my speech now I am going to go eat some ice cream.

Calling out Karlene.....

I think it's about time for one of your "Motivational Speeches" I'm getting really nervouse!!

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Ok Guys, One more week of HARD Training!

Hey guys! How's the training going? I am going to put in 30 this week and 25 next week. Anyone with me? I know some of you got snow. That stinks! I guess you'll be hitting the, as Lori would say, dreadmill with me. It's not as fun, but it's better than not running at all. Ok back to business. I am posting things we'll need. And I am also posting my list of items I am bringing. (You don't have to use my list of items. I am only posting it, for those that are wondering what I am bringing)
ITEMS THE TEAMS MUST HAVE IN THE VAN
At least 2 headlamps per van it is nice to have more, but not mandatory.
At least 2 Reflecting vest per van it is nice to have more, because you can not get out of the van at night without a vest on. You will get penalized if caught.

Sarah's list for packing
sleeping bag
pillow
toothbrush and paste
shampoo,soap,and things to make me pretty
Towel washcloth
deoderant(this is mandatory for van2)
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
2 longsleeve shirts for under race shirt.
1 windbraker just in case
1 ear warmer (thats for two ears) in case your wondering
1 pair of gloves
running shoes
1 pair of running pants
1 capri?
3 shorts
4 pairs of Socks and UNDERWEAR (ALSO MANDATORY FOR VAN2)
ipod
camera
Meds.
comfy clothes and slip on shoes for when I'm not running
1 pair of jammies
bag for my smelly clothes

Again you don't have to use this list, but it's here if you need it. Also if you guys have nay questions call me 520 572-9191. Those that have headlamps and vest let me know by email or phone. I'm just wondering if I need to by some. Thanks!

KEEP IT UP, DON'T STOP NOW WE R ALMOST THERE!

Desmon is Home!

Desmon is home and doing really well! The Doctor's said the test results look good. We are so happy! Thanks for your prayers and comments....You guys are awesome!

Sunday, February 8, 2009

Dez

Hey I thought I would post a little up date about our little Dez. She got her surgery on Sat. and it went really well, but the recovery is going to be long and hard. She is such a trooper. From what Nikki and my mom have said she has done so well. What amazing little girl she is. As for Nikki well lets just say I know where Dez gets it. She is such a strong person and I have always admired her for that. She truly has amazed me with her faith and being a solid rock for her family. That really is all there is, unfortunately. It looks like the result from the tests will not be in until Tuesday. Talk about torture. I am so glad everyone has been so supportive of them. Thanks.

Desmon????

Hi everyone I can't stop thinking about Nikki and her family right now and I don't want to pester her by calling on the phone so Sarah or Marinda if you know anything new about Desmon will you please let me know. We have been praying for her every time we pray. We sure love that little girl and her family.
On another note I agree bring on the race! Training is over rated. Just Kidding I'm sticking with it but I am ready to be with all of you and have some fun while I have to run. This blog is therapeutic to being a mom who likes to run thanks everyone!
Kim

Friday, February 6, 2009

"LETS JUST DO THIS DAMN RACE ALREADY!"

I don't know about you guys, but I am about done with all this training. I am just ready to do the race! Does anyone share these feelings? I keep reminding myself there's really not a break between Del Sol and Wasatch. Are we all crazy? I know my husband thinks we are. Anytime I start having these feelings I watch the slide show and think, "Oh it is soooo worth it." Those that haven't done a Ragnar Relay yet, it is so much fun and I promise it is worth all the work your putting in! So keep it up! It is almost here! And to all of you out there praying for my BEAUTIFUL niece THANK YOU!You guys are awesome!

Zhalore Leg 10?

Raquel said she might take leg 2 for Val. So I was wondering if you didn't mind switching vans you could do Raquel's leg, Leg 10 and Val could do leg5. That way her and Molly could stay in the same van. Leg 10 and 5 are almost identicle. Let me know....how does that sound to you Val?

Desmon

Hey to all of you who are wondering how Desmon is doing, we are having a very long day. We have been here since 8:00 am and we are still waiting on the surgen. They have decided that today is not a good day for her surgery and so we will be doing it tomorrow. I will keep you all posted.

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Our little Desmon, needs you.


Those of you who haven't heard my niece, Nikki's daughter, Desmon is really sick. She has been battling with Crohn's Disease for about 5 or so years now, and unfortunately Crohn's has had the upper hand. Yesterday she had a CT scan and they found polyps on her lungs. She will be going into surgery tomorrow. Please remember her in your prayers. The family is having a special fast tonight, and would love to have anyone join that would like too. Please keep her, and her family in your hearts and prayers.
Thanks!
Sarah

Quote of the day

"Jogging is very beneficial. It's good for your legs and your feet. It's also very good for the ground. It makes it feel needed."
-Charles Schultz, Peanuts

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Carbo Loading...

Hey gals,
I just wanted to run this by you and see what you think. From what I understand, the Utah gang, Sarah and Katrina will be parking your cars at my sisters house in Gilbert. Sarah and I were thinking of meeting there around 3:00 on Thursday; we can decorate our vans there. Also, being the most charitable person I know; my sister said she will feed us spaghetti, salad and garlic bread. I figure we could pitch in around $3.00 a person. I think most of us are trying to cut costs as much as possible. What do you think? Can Utah get here around 3:00. I'm excited to see all of you and I really want my mom and sister to meet you!
Hey this is Valerie (just using MOlly's account) I have leg #2 and I was hoping for more miles. Leg two is shorter distances, but more hills. Is there anyone in the first van that wants to switch legs?

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

I have a Dr. Question

I have come down with some congestion/cold/cough/crap from my kids and I always say I am to mean to get sick but it has got me. Plus, with this yucky inversion air it doesn't help. I really never get sick and this timing is not the best. Some people around me have had this for weeks. By running am I going to make it worse and push into my lungs? Any ideas on how to get over this fast. I am not patient and have still been running but it sucks? I want to be strong for the race. aaaaahhhhh I don't think I'm bad enough to go to the Dr. but I never do so?
Kim
I came across this quote and thought of Marinda's post about being frustrated at her performance one day.
"Some days you'll run and no matter how hard you think you're going, you'll never be quick. Then there are those days when you're lighting. No reason why"
-Dan Wheldon, 2005 Indianapolis 500 champion

Sunday, February 1, 2009

No marathon for us

Hello to all. I wanted to let you all know that Karleen and I have decided that we are pretty dang sure we will never run a marathon. We ran 12 on Saturday and decided that a marathon is just to dang far. I think that all of you that have are awesome. And Kim I am so excited for you and your marathon in May. You are so dedicated I know you will kick so fanny. I can't wait to see all of you and to have some crazy fun. Sarah I love the idea for the vans. Good job to all of you. Oh and because I know you were all so concerned about my road rash I am recovering fine. J/K I know that you all needed a good laugh so here are some pictures of my incident. This happened Friday so they look a lot better now. I finally got some more gravel our of my hands today during church. I popped blood vessels in my thumbs and the bottom of my hands. You can't see it in the pictures. But it was so dang funny and now you can put a picture to the accident and get another laugh. And yes I had pants on and still bruised up my knees and had gravel in them as well. The things we do to stay sane. I know that is debatable