Cyrs

Cyrs

Friday, December 4, 2015

Seven Months

A lot has happened in the last 7 months.
Like, a lot.



We closed and moved into our first house.
I registered for my first marathon.
Cam played tee-ball for the first time.
Shawn took up cycling.
Cameron was casted for and received his first AFO.
We all had birthdays.
We got our first puppy together.
Cameron finished Preschool.
He started Kindergarten.
Together we raised $1,000 for CHaD.
I completed my first marathon.
We hosted our first Thanksgiving in our new home.

Lots.

But there is one thing that hasn't happend.

Cameron has been 7 months seizure-free.

For the first time ever in his life.

Those of you who know Cameron well might remember that he had his first visable seizure at about six and a half months old, in March 2011. He was officially diagnosed with epilepsy about a month later, in April 2011. Since then, the longest he had gone seizure-free was 5 months, last September to February. 

He last had a seizure on April 4, 2015. Today is December 4, 2015. 
This milestone doesn't mean anything in terms of the future of his epilepsy or whether he is "cured", but knowing that this is the first time in his life that he hasn't been plagued by seizures for over six months, feels like a miracle. We don't normally talk about how long it's been, and if we do, we spend the entire time we're talking knocking on every piece of wood we can reach. It usually comes up when we are up at Dartmouth for an appointment with the neurologist, and even he'll knock on wood when it's mentioned. I think the last time I wrote a post referencing the "last time he had a seizure", I had to write another post a week or two later saying it didn't last. (knock on wood)

Here's to hoping we can add many more things to our list of going's on, without adding to the list of dates that Cameron has had a seizure. 


Tuesday, November 17, 2015

Hemp Hearts Review & Giveaway

I don't know about you, but I'm big on trying new things, especially things that I can add to my snacks! I was recently given the opportunity to try Manitoba Harvest's Hemp Hearts.


So what are Hemp Hearts?
They are a raw, shelled hemp seed (the heart of the hemp seed!). Hemp Hearts contain 10 grams of plant-based protein and 10 grams of omegas per 30 gram serving. They are hearty (pun intended) little buggers, full of energy-sustaining nutrients.

Because I often have a cup of Greek yogurt in the morning after my runs, I decided to go the "easy" route and add the Hemp Hearts to my yogurt. I usually add a teaspoon of chia seeds to give it some texture and a little 'oomf'. I kept the cupboard closed, where the chia seeds are kept (so they wouldn't know!), and poured about a tablespoon of Hemp Hearts into my favorite coffee-flavored Chobani. 


The results? A delightfully nutty flavor and texture. Adding the Hemp Hearts to my yogurt kept me full longer. They didn't change the flavor of the yogurt, but I could taste their slightly nutty flavor (something similar to a sunflower seed, exactly as it's described on their website). These little guys are so versitile, Manitoba has an entire section of their website dedicated to awesome recipes that I fully intend on trying. 

I'm excited to be able to share a package of Hemp Hearts with one of you! Head on over to my Instagram page and enter to win your own bag!

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Manitoba Harvest through my ambassadorship with FitApproach. All opinions are my own.


Friday, October 23, 2015

Baystate Marathon Recap

Now that the soreness has worn off and I can safely walk up and down stairs, I've had time to reflect on my first marathon experience.


The packet pick-up on Saturday was seamless, quick and easy, besides Cameron's unwillingness to remain within an arms reach at any period of time. I was able to get a super snazzy Baystate Marathon jacket, to which I vowed not to wear until after I crossed the finishline the next day.

We stayed in a hotel about 4 miles away from the race start, so once we left the expo, we headed to the hotel to check in and drop our stuff off, to then venture out to find something for dinner. After dinner (thank you Cracker Barrell for the $7 simple marinaded chicken, baked sweet potato and cottage cheese!) we headed back to the hotel so I could organize myself and get Cameron to bed. I've got to admit, this was the most stressful part of the trip. I'm so used to having everything I need in the same places, so having to unpack it all, then get it organized created chaos (in my head). Getting my Nuun ready and into my flasks, then to the fridge, breaking up my Honey Stinger waffles and putting them into a sandwich bag, making sure everything I need fits into my fuel belt, double and triple checking my clothes - bib, pants, shirt, sports bra, underwear, socks (most of which are the same ones I used for every long run), getting my shoes and insoles out and within reach, peanut buttering an english muffin for my breakfast, hydrating and trying to stay calm... I was so glad to get to sleep that night.

When the morning arrived, I had indeed set out everything I needed in perfect harmony. I was ready to go earlier than I had to, and was able to catch the hotel shuttle to the start with relative ease. Upon arrival at the start line, I realized how cold it truly was. I had inteded on leaving my fleece-lined pants and fleece sweatshirt in my bag that I was checking, but I knew after standing outside for a short time, that the wind was going to be too much for a short-sleeved shirt. I sent Shawn a text to fill him in and told him that I would plan to hand my sweatshirt off when I saw him at the 13 mile marker, after I, and the air, had warmed up.

My Motivate Wrap by Momentum Jewelry - a constant reminder.

The start of the race was beautiful, emotional, exhilerating and calm. I had found the 4 hour pace group and shot back far enough to where I expected the group of 5 hour runners would be. Turns out, I guessed pretty accurately, as the girl who was standing in front of me at the start line finished right behind me. I got texts of good luck and snap chat photos of where my cousins and aunt were waiting just after the start. The National Anthem was sang, the sun peaked through, and the gun went off - I said outloud, "This is it. It's here!" I had no idea I was in for a huge surprise, just around the corner. I heard my cousin Meaghan scream my name, so I turned to the left to wave and saw the wonderful, dedicated, freezing group standing there with their signs, then I saw my mom and instantly burst into tears. I was in total shock, because I had no idea that my mom, who lives in Portland, OR, would be there. She even tricked me by "waking up early" to text me at 7:15am (4:15am "her time") to wish me luck. I ran over to give her a big hug (and got yelled at by a guy who didn't feel it was appropriate to break his stride after .12 miles into the course). Then went on my way, trying to take a deep breath and comforted by the fact that I had a big cheering squad, including my mom, who had flown 3,000 miles just for this. The first few miles ticked right by. By mile 4, I had already gone through 2 water stations and was snacking on my first waffle. I had planned to wait until about mile 10 before I turned on my podcasts because I wanted to soak in the race as much as I could before I needed the distraction from any sort of pain, boredom or fatigue.

As I got to mile 10, I thought to myself, I dont want to put the music/podcasts on now, because then I can't hear everyone and when I see my family at mile 13 on the bridge, I want to hear the excitement. So I decided to keep trucking along, easily focused on the goings-on around me and the incredibly inspiring people that I encountered. I quickly typed "10" to Shawn from my phone (which was strapped to my arm) when I hit that mile marker and got a message back that everyone was on the bridge, which I knew was just before mile 13. At this point, the lead male literally (from what I remember) FLEW by me and gave me a thumbs up and a "good job"! The wind was pretty strong, and hitting me head-on for a good majority of the day. I came to the realization that I would not be handing off my fleece because I was already focusing so much on relaxing my shoulders that were tightening up due to the cold wind blowing down my neck, that I couldn't bear to be without it. As I ran over the biggest hill and biggest bridge of the course (that felt like it was never going to end), I arrived at top to see a big group, including Shawn and Cameron, cheering me on. At this point, I was feeling really good. No tightness, no discomfort, just excitement as I ran through the biggest section of spectators on the entire course. It is at this point that the marathoners begin the second loop, and start back at mile 3.5. On the first loop, for every mile marker in the single digits, there was another mile marker just before it with 10 miles added, so I knew going into the second half of the race where I'd be at each mile.

The next time I sent Shawn a text was at mile 16.5. This was the first time I stopped running, because my hamstrings and glutes were starting to tighten up. I stretched for about 30 seconds and continued on my way, still not having turned on my podcasts. The thought kept coming into my head, like an angel/devil dialogue. I'd think, "Now is the time. This is hard." and then think "You're so focused, you're not missing anything, just keep going and be in the moment." As I approached mile 20, the dreaded mile 20, I realized how close I was to finishing this race. I was feeling okay still, and focusing on remembering to hydrate and eat my waffles every 4-5 miles. I kept trying to remember how far I had come, and how little I had left of this experience.
Yep, broke down that wall.
I stopped again to stretch after I passed mile 20. This time it was a little harder to get going again. I was due for another half waffle at mile 21, so I pressed on and got there, ate the waffle, and pushed through to mile 22. I don't think I ever actually hit "the wall", but it was mile 22 that really got me. The base of my hamstrings, just behind my knees, were aching and no stretch was helping. My back had been so tight throughout the race due to the cold, that it was really sore and beginning to be hard to take a deep breath. My pace slowed quite a bit and this was the first time I openly expressed difficulty. I texted Shawn and said "Mile 22 and slowing down". 4.2 miles to go and I would see my family cheering me on. I just kept thinking about how long the journey was to get to these last few miles and that I had worked so hard to get to that moment. I still had it in me, but my legs were starting to revolt. My mind was in it and still, I hadn't thought it would be in my best interest to turn music or anything on. I had to focus on putting one foot in front of the other. There were so many people around me starting to walk. I would walk a little, run some more, walk a little, run more. I knew I could do it, so around mile 24.5 I decided I wanted my medal and the finish line more than I wanted the comfort of walking, so I ran as hard as I could. Unfortunately, my watch died at mile 25.16, so I dont know what my splits were for the last mile, but I know it was faster than mile 23 & 24.

There were random people walking down the sidewalks encouraging me and pushing me on. One man said "Just get around the corner, you'll start to feel the excitement of the finish line and it'll carry you the rest of the way." As I rounded the corner into downtown Lowell, I knew I was getting close, but I didnt know how close, since my watch had died. I passed by a man with a microphone who was cheering people on by name and assumed that meant the finish line was just around the corner (again), but it wasn't (and he mispronounced my name...Casey...oye! ;) ). I kept on and eventually could hear the sounds of the finish line. Names being announced. Music being played. Cowbells rung. A symphony of runner glory.

I don't know what happened when I saw the finish line, but I didn't break my view from it. I knew everyone was there, but I never saw them or heard them (though, I've seen a video now and know they were all screaming their heads off!). I was holding back tears as I approached the big arch, not because I was ready to quit, but because it was the culmination of so many hours, miles, emotions, fundraisers, blog posts, early mornings, early nights, and everything in between for the last 20-something weeks. As I got wrapped in my heat sheet and leaned over to get my medal, I couldn't believe it was over. Initially I was a little bummed that it took me over 5 hours. I was on track to finish at just about 5 hours for most of the race and my secret goal (that only Shawn knew about) was to finish by 1pm. That didn't happen, and I knew the reality was that my goal was to finish all 26.2 miles. And I did.

I had heard from different people that you feel like you're on top of the world when you finish a marathon, that you could do anything (except maybe walk down a flight of stairs). I definitely felt the biggest, baddest runners high and was so excited (and freezing) knowing that I had just finished my first marathon. I think I'll be riding this high for awhile, until next April when I register again! ;)

A great suprise to come home to! Thanks Sam & Bec!
So much went into my running this marathon, so many things that I didn't even do myself! The support that I received from family and friends was incredible. I couldn't believe how many cheers and good lucks and well wishes I got, along with the awesome crew that came out to carry me along the race course (Thank you Meaghan, Auntie Lu, Katy, Pat, Bee, JC, Kylie & Micah, Dad, Shawn, Cameron and Mom!). Throughout training, there were easy runs, hard runs, hot runs, dark runs and super sunny runs. I couldn't have gotten through many of those long runs without my trusty BFF Becca, meeting me at my house in the wee hours of the morning to run the last half of a lot of my long runs with me. I could not have done any of this without Shawn's support and encouragement. Having added a puppy to the mix in the middle of training, the morning runs became more and more taxing on Shawn as well, having to corral both puppy and child for a few hours on Saturday mornings alone.

Also, thank you ALL who donated to CHaD, as I was fundraising throughout my training cycle.
I didn't reach my $1,000 goal, but the $928 that did come through will help so many CHaD kids and families to be comforted while they're being cared for at CHaD. Thank you all again!!!

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Less Than a Week

So this is it. It's marathon week. I can't believe how quickly the summer passed and how many hours spent out on the road have been archived in my watch's database.

The road to get to my marathon debut has not been all sunshine and happiness. I was reading my post from when I registered for the marathon a few days ago and reflecting on how this journey met, exceeded and deflated my expectations of how it would go - how does something do all of those things?! It didn't all happen at once. Much like the marathon itself, it's been a long journey of many ups and downs and a lot of even-keel, sweat-dripping moments.

If everything in life could be kept constant, marathon training would fit perfectly into anyone's schedule and not be an inconvenience to any of the runner's family or friends. BUT, such is life. And that's one of the reasons why training for a marathon is HARD. Many times my runs were planned around family events, which happen often in the summer months. This meant setting my alarm for as early as 4am to get my miles in before leaving on day trips, birthday parties, etc. As well as trying to make sure my long runs didn't interfere too much with our "normal" Saturdays. My goal was to try to be back home by 9-9:30am so that our weekends were not revolving around my long runs. This meant on almost every Saturday all summer I was setting my alarm for earlier than I did during the week. This became normal as the weeks passed.

Now that training is practically over (I have one more run and a 2 mile walk scheduled), I can say that I am running a marathon...on SUNDAY! The last few weeks of marathon training cut down on mileage and time on your feet (called "the taper"). I have thoroughly enjoyed the taper (aka the sleeping in), which came at the perfect time considering I started with a head cold the Monday after my 20 miler and was given an inhaler for bronchitis last week. In the runs that I have had since the taper began, I've really noticed a difference with my speed now that my legs have had a chance to recover after building the base that I'll need to push through 26.2 miles. I'm not looking to put that pace to use during my marathon, but it is fun to see the pace drop below a 10 minute mile consistantly and with relative ease (even with bronchitis!).



As I prepare for Sunday, Ive planned some simple meals, cutting out a lot of fats (even the "good" ones), oils and fiber to keep digestion simple and try to prevent any stomach upset and bloat. As the day get closer, I'm focusing on higher, simple carb foods, like potatoes (sweet and regular) and pasta (white, not wheat), oatmeal and yogurt and lean proteins like chicken...and lots of water! Doing this helps to build the glycogen stores that your body uses while running long distances. Once the glycogen stores run out, your body starts to use fat to process as energy, but it's not as efficient and often leads to exhaustion and "hitting the wall". There's no way to absolutely fill the glycogen stores in your body to fuel you all the way through, so that's why it's also important to fuel during the marathon, which I have been practicing during my long runs - thank you Honey Stinger waffles and salty pretzels!!!

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One last push for CHaD Fundraising as well - TDOAY, October 14th at 5pm, the fundraising pages close for CHaD HERO. I am SO close to my $1,000 goal and would love to reach it to help CHaD continue to provide the amazing services that CHaD families so desperately need.
Please, if you haven't yet, a donation of $5, $10 or $25 can help tremendously!
I'll be wearing my CHaD HERO shirt and hat while I run on Sunday!!! I hope to see some of the fundraiser shirts out and about in support! :)
Click here to donate!

Thursday, October 1, 2015

20 MILES

Training for a marathon, "they" say, is not for the light-hearted. It takes time, committment from not just the runner, but the family and friends that surround the person. As a first-time marathon trainee, my goal, also as "they" say, should be to "just finish". My goal - "just finish" without wanting to collapse. ;)

About two and a half years ago, I decked out the backside of the mirror which covered our medicine cabinet with words of encouragement as I began my "Five Months to Fitness" preceeding my wedding day. I taped all sorts of pictures, quotes, graphics and my workout schedule on the inside of that miror. For some reason, I also included cut-outs of "5K", "10K", "13.1" and "26.2". At the time, I was training for my first 5K. I had thought maybe some day I'd do a half marathon, but I remember thinking that I was putting the 26.2 up there just to round it out. It hadn't crossed my mind until I was able to draw a big black check mark on the 5K, 10K and 13.1, that checking off that 26.2 is something that I could do, but I didn't really have a reason to.

For the last 18-or-so weeks I have been following a training plan that I created based on a lot of research, going over some other training plans and knowing my own schedule and limitations. What has gotten me across half marathon finish lines in the past is the focus and regiment of a training plan - knowing that I will not be feeling my best if I don't complete the training plan as it's laid out. Now, that's not to say I didn't sleep in and skip a Monday run here or there, or if an injury crept up, I took the bench for some time. In the back of my mind, I always know that if I skip a run "just because", I lessen my chances of crossing the finish line with a smile on my face.

While marathon training might seem similar to the training that I have done for the 6 half marathons leading up to this race, it has proven to be vastly different. Surprisingly though, I hadn't felt the true effects of honest-to-goodness marathon training until about a week ago as I was gearing up for my longest and most important run of this training. I sort of felt like everything up until then was really preparing me for this 20-mile run, not the 26.2 miles I will do 3 weeks from then.

If not more important, what's at least equally important in marathon training is mental strength and how well you mentally prepare to cover those miles. I've got to admit that I feel this is my biggest strength through this training. Screw my legs, my mind says I've got to hit 20.00 - not 19.99, not 14.97 on a 15 mile week! I want to see those numbers get higher and I'll keep pushing until I get there. If thoughts of "still 8 miles left" start to creep into my mind, I focus on what's at the end of those 8 miles - rest, a big glass of ice water, an egg and veggie filled burrito (thanks to Shawn!) and usually I'll be able to push right through and the last miles fly by! (Who says food can't be a reward!!?)

As I head into the taper weeks with a lovely head cold (thank you Cam and his kindergarten friends), I'm feeling ready, but nervous. I'm focusing on the finish line and visualizing seeing 26.20 on my watch, getting the medal and celebrating! I'm remembering that I have done the work, the hardest part, the training...it's practically over! Its been a long road, but I know it'll be worth it!

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I was honored to have been invited to the Heroes are Here Tribute on the day before the CHaD HERO event, and am sorely dissapointed that I cannot attend, as I'll be in Lowell, MA preparing for the Baystate Marathon - BUT, I am THRILLED to be representing CHaD as I run. I am continuing to fundraise up until October 15th, when the donor pages close.

Please, if you haven't donated yet, consider a donation of even $5 to support CHaD. Any amount helps. If you haven't read my post about where the donor dollars are used, please read this post.
You can make a donation to CHaD HERE.




Saturday, September 19, 2015

Bulu Box Review and Discount Code!

As a Sweat Pink Ambassador, I'm occasionally given the opportunity to sample and review different products on the market. I was recently sent a one month subscription from Bulu Box! I knew around-or-about when the box was scheduled to arrive, but nothing could compare to when I saw the bright, cheerful and encouraging box of goodness awaiting my arrival home after work!
I have no experience with other subscription boxes, so I suppose I set my expectations pretty low. 

SO what is Bulu Box? Well, there are two different types. There is the "Originial" Bulu Box which provides a well-rounded sampling of different health and nutrition products and there is also the "Weight Loss" Bulu Box which provides samples of various weight-loss specific items. Each box comes loaded with 4 to 5 samples. 

As I prepared to open my original Bulu Box, I was expecting rays of sunshine and singing birds to accompany the surprise (comon Bulu!). ;)
No singing or sunshine, but some nice bright orange paper! I was pretty excited about the samples that I got - a full jar of gummie vitamins (hardly a SAMPLE), some Movit energy gummies (which I used on my subsequent long run), some protein chews (yum!), a sample of instant "healthy" coffee, Omega-3 vitamins and a sample of upset stomach relief powder. Overall, after expecting 4-5 samples and receiving 6, I was already excited!

The cool thing about Bulu box is that you can always purchase the full-size version of every product that is in the box - even cooler, you can earn points to get actual money toward the full size products by submitting a review of the samples that you received! Up to 100 points per month, which equals $10! NICE! 

Bulu Box is also super affordable for a subscription box, compared to some other similar boxes (after some brief research). It is $10/month for a month-to-month subscription, a 3-month subscription and a 6-month subscription, but you save some money by jumping to the 12-month subscription, which is $110 for the year! And guess what! If you're interested in trying Bulu Box, but are unsure you want to spend $30 yet on a 3-month subscription, go to bulubox.com use code SWEATPINK at checkout and receive 50% off! 

Overall, I'm happy with the box, and while I fortunately haven't had to use the upset stomach relief, I sampled each of the other products and was really satisfied with the collection of samples I received!

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

Reflections of a Kindergarten Mom

Last week, my tiny 6lb, 6oz perfect baby boy turned 5 and started Kindergarten, except he’s no longer a baby, toddler or Preschooler. I cannot classify him as anything smaller than a little boy. I have no more excuses for his wacky attitudes or spilled milk, his filthy hair or crying tantrums, because he’s not a baby anymore. In many ways, I’m thankful that his baby years are over. Those were some of the hardest years of my life, and hopefully with those years behind us, we can look forward to a long, bright future for Cam.
There were so many unknowns when Cameron was a baby, toddler and Preschooler. So many times we were left with more questions than answers.  Cameron was a colicky infant, diagnosed at 3 months old, when most babies are getting over their colicky behavior. I still remember his doctor saying that he was “the picture of perfect health”, just a crying baby…but why? At 6 months old he began having “episodes” of what his doctor suspected were constipation issues in a baby who was fairly “regular”. It wasn’t until the episodes worsened and became more frequent that our journey truly began at CHaD. Now, as a Kindergartener, Cam’s journey with CHaD continues.

I recently received an email from CHaD that was sent to all CHaD HERO registrants giving examples of what the fundraising dollars are used for. As I read the email, I was shocked at how many of these examples were moments that we experienced at the many inpatient stays Cameron has had at CHaD. As a CHaD parent, so much is focused on your child’s care that it’s not until later, when you are able to look back, that you realize how much you’ve been given. But it’s exactly because of these services that parents at CHaD ARE able to focus on their child’s needs and not have to think about packing movies for the overnight testing, or bringing snacks because s/he might get hungry after missing a meal, carting toys to the hospital so there are things to do, etc. The dollars raised through CHaD HERO fundraising fill the family kitchen with snacks and drinks, movies for the kids to use in their rooms and a full playroom of toys that can be brought into their rooms or shared with other kids who are also receiving care.
So, what sort of things can a donation to CHaD provide?

$5 - $25 means toys for waiting rooms, playrooms and teen rooms, a book for CHaD kids at their well-child visit and so much more. Being a patient at CHaD is "a children's hospital experience, and not just a medical experience" for more than 60,000 CHaD kids and their families every day. Most often, kids who arrive at CHaD for their first time find their way back, and while it’s not a place anyone wants to be, The Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth is the first place I turn to when Cameron is in trouble.

$50 means 2 CHaD kids who happen to be at CHaD on their birthday, get a birthday party. When Cameron had his brain surgery, he spent Halloween in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at CHaD. The wonderful staff at CHaD brought Cam a load of costumes to choose from and he was given the opportunity to go trick-or-treating around the hospital. When he declined the offer (he was still pretty groggy and sore), one of the nurses went for him and brought him a big goodie bag of Halloween treats from each of the departments. He wasn’t there on his birthday, but it is just another example of the way the CHaD staff go above and beyond to make the children feel welcomed and loved.

$75 helps CHaD's Child Life Specialists prepare 5 CHaD kids for surgery. This was something that was very special when Cameron had his surgery. As so many people are popping in and out of the waiting room (which is full of awesome toys and games) introducing themselves and explaining procedures, we were given a single person to help us remember who the people were, organize our thoughts, answer any questions, get a cup of coffee, anything we needed. The Child Life Specialists are talented people and held our hands through the entire surgery prep, including going into the OR and walking me back to the waiting room, where I met back up with Shawn.

$250 provides 50 CHaD kids, who are managing a chronic illness, a 'care notebook' to keep track of their medical information. Every time we have stepped into the inpatient unit at CHaD, we were given a bag with lots of helpful information, contacts, a notebook and pen. While these things seem little and somewhat unimportant, many questions were written down with that pen and notebook that would have otherwise been forgotten.

$500 or $1,000 helps protect kids through the Child Advocacy and Protection Program by providing clinics with the tools needed to screen patients for exposure to domestic violence, a potential indicator of child abuse.

There are so many ways that your donation can make an impact for CHaD kids and their families. The list goes on, and I’m sure if I sat back I could come up with 20 more ways that our lives were made easier because of the services provided to us through the dollars raised for this incredible organization. My goal this year is to raise $1,000 for CHaD. Last year I exceeded my goal of $500 by $140, so I’m doubling it this time around. Every day families arrive at CHaD, relying on the world-class care and expertise of the physicians, therapists, nurses and the entire staff to guide them and care for their children. No parent wants to be put in the position of relying on doctors to help them make life-changing decisions about their children’s health, but when they do, the support provided through CHaD, funded by donors, makes all the difference.
Please consider a donation to support the children and families of CHaD and help us raise one million dollars! Every dollar counts! 
With love,

Cassie, Shawn and Cameron 

Friday, August 14, 2015

Five Things Friday

Because I have 5 things to share, and it's Friday!

1. The CHaD HERO t shirt sales ROCKED! Thank you ALL who purchased a shirt and supported my campaign! Together we raised $255.86 with the sale of 34 shirts and almost $60 in additional donations! Thank you, thank you, thank you! I can't wait to see the shirts around! For those of you who chose to have the shirt delivered to me, I was told I should have them by Friday Aug 21st, so I'll be tracking everyone down over the weekend!
I'm currently working on a tank top to sport all of the sponsor's names and chosen miles, for which I'll wear during my marathon! Question for you all - Anyone have recommendations for a screen printing company or local shop that would print just one shirt? I'd love to hear suggestions!

2. The first of two Margaritas Nights was a fun-filled event with great support! We added another $77.23 to the total funds raised while enjoying each others company ...and the 20oz Dos Equis! ;) Night #2 is coming up NEXT WEDNESDAY Aug 19th at the Margaritas in Keene, NH! Please call, text, email, message me, send me a carrier pigeon, whatever! in order to get a flyer to give to your waiter so they put your purchase toward the fundraiser. I will also have some at the restaurant with me. I was told I cannot hand them out - but you can ask me for one!  

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Freekeh Review and Giveaway!

A few weeks ago, I talked about some ways that my family and I manage our grocery budget, especially with a marathon training appetite. As I said in my last post, we like trying new foods, so I was really excited when I was given the opportunity to review an awesome new product called Freekah!

So what is Freekah?
From Freekeh Food's website: Freekeh is a process which means "to rub" in Arabic. Freekeh was created by accident nearly 2,000 years ago when a Middle Eastern village was attacked and their crop of young green wheat was set ablaze. Most folks would sulk over their misfortune, but the crafty villagers rubbed off the chaff, cooked it up and "Eureka!" Freekeh was created. Freekeh has up to three times the fiber and protein found in brown rice, and fewer calories than quinoa and white rice. Freekeh Foods makes three different flavor options - there's Original, Rosemary & Sage and Tamari. I chose to review the Original and Rosemary & Sage.

I love their site because it has some great recipes and ideas to get me started in order to use Freekeh. It's basically a mix between rice and quinoa (it is NOT gluten free). When I opened the package, I actually thought it might have been mixed with rice, but no, it's an interesting mixture of shapes and textures. I was eager to get some recipes brewing with this lovely new grain, and to hear what the hubs and child thought of our first (and second) freekah experiences.

Friday, July 31, 2015

Having a mom that runs...

I love asking Cameron questions that clue me into how he's interpreting the things around him.
I saw this questionnaire on Happy Fit Mama's blog the other day and had to get the answers from Cam!

What does Mom eat before a run?
Cam: Yogurt
**I often have Greek yogurt smoothies after a run, but I think I'd pay terribly if I ate yogurt before my runs!**

How far does Mom run every day?
Cam: 66 miles
**That must include the miles I run chasing him and Remy around.**

What is Mom's favorite race?
Cam: Running races.
**He's pretty literal.**

Why do you think Mom runs?
Cam: Because she's beautiful.
**I'm not sure how this answers the question, or if he couldn't think of another answer, but I'll take it!**

What injuries has Mom had from running?
Cam: Your hands and knee
**He's referencing when I fell and walked home with bloody hands...**



Do you like going to Mom's races?
Cam: Yes

Have you learned anything from having a mom who runs?
Cam: Yes. Playing outside, painting and running
**I'm obviously a good multi-tasker.**

Does having a mom who runs make you want to run?
Cam: Yes.



What's your least favorite thing about having a mom who runs?
Cam: Playing with Remy.
**I'm not sure he entirely understood this one...**

Do you think you will run when you are Mom's age? How old is she?
Cam: Yes. 27.
**This question is more fun for kids who don't care to know how old everyone is.**
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Marathon training update and fundraisers!

I ran my first double digit run in marathon training last week, and I'll be doing two half marathons in a row in the next two weeks (not actual races, just 13 miles -- Did I really just write "just 13 miles"...). This is the first time in my training cycle that I really, truly feel like I'm doing more than I have for halfs that I've trained for. Normally once I hit 12 - 13 miles I start to taper in preparation for the upcoming race, but I'm only about half way through training, so this is when the real work begins! After these next two weeks, my long runs will each be the longest run I have done to date. Scary, but exciting!

I'm super excited to have sold 23 shirts already! My small goal is to sell 26, but my larger goal is to sell 50. I can't believe I've already just about reached my small goal and am almost half way to the big goal! The campaign is open through August 7th. Shirts are $15 each and you can make an additional donation with your purchase, if you are able. Click on this link to check it out!


The first Margaritas night is next Thursday, August 6th in Lebanon, NH. Join the event on Facebook and share it with local friends and family!
The second Margaritas night in Keene is on Wednesday, August 19th. Again, join the event and share, share share!

Tuesday, July 21, 2015

Marathon Eating on a Budget


I mentioned a few posts back that I was focusing my pre-training marathon training by honing in on my nutrition to really find out what works and what doesn't work in order to keep me energized and avoid being a ravenous beast (oh, and not spending a million dollars trying to feed myself and family). As two post-college, debt-to-our-ears, new home owner, young-er parents, our budget is pretty tight.

Shawn and I are not creatures of habit when it comes to dinner-eating. Growing up, I always knew that we'd have American Chop Suey (ughhhh) one night, pizza one night, tacos another... I like to try different things and different styles of cooking. I don't LOVE to cook, but I do LOVE to eat delicious food, and food that I know is fueling my body for the miles I've been, and will be, putting in. The problem with making "good" food fuel is that it is often preceded by an expensive grocery bill. So here are a few money-saving tips for both marathoners and non-marathoners alike. I'm no pro couponer (I'm actually the worst couponer...), but I've learned some lessons over the last few years!

Friday, July 10, 2015

Preschool woes, CHaD Allstar Football & PUPPIES!

It has been a wild ride over the last few weeks and it seems crazy that we're already a week into July!

Back in the beginning of May we had Cameron's IEP meeting with his Preschool teachers and other staff. The decision was made that Cameron would go to summer school (gasp!) as there was clear evidence that he had some motor regression after not having physical therapy at school all summer and fall last year. He also has some minor fine motor delays, such as his inability to grasp scissors and write at an age-appropriate level. The preschool he attends is going through some changes this summer, and thus is taking place at his new elementary school, instead of the school it had been in. We're excited about this because he will be able to learn the new space he's in (they're actually using the Kindergarten classrooms), with the people he's comfortable with (he has the same teachers) all before adding the other kids, new staff and longer days.

After Cam's official/unofficial Preschool graduation
So Tuesday was Cam's first day at summer Preschool.

Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Training Evolution & Becoming a CHaD Kid Ambassador


My training strategy has changed a bit from the first races I did over two years ago. Going into my first 5k, I had no idea what I was doing, I only knew that I had to run about 3 miles. It was a a St. Patrick's Day race, so it was pretty chilly when I started training for it (and the coldest race I've done to date!). At the apartment that we lived in at the time, we had the perfect one mile loop around our neighborhood, which was important to me because I wasn't comfortable getting too far away from my house yet. In the beginning of my training (though, it seems silly to even call it training), I did a lot of indoor cardio work and HIIT (high intensity interval training) workouts, which did get my heart pumping and somewhat used to the intensity of running, plus built up my leg muscles. The first run that I tracked, (which might have been my 2nd run?), was 3 miles at 12:41 pace. I don't remember this run at all! I can only imagine it must have something to do with the body's ability to forget pain. ;) Most of my training prior to registering for my first half marathon was literally just practicing to run distances. I didn't try to go fast, I just went. I didn't follow a training plan, I just ran a few times per week.
My first tracked run!


Wednesday, June 10, 2015

Pediatric Orthopedics Update and 4 Years Ago

For the second time in Cameron's four and a half years of life, we made a trip to Dartmouth to visit a specialty other than Pediatric Neurology (the other time being the Pediatric Nephrologist when Cameron had problems with his kidneys after starting new meds). We saw Dr. Timothy Lee and Dr. Michelle Prince on Monday in Pediatric Orthopedics. Any visits not dealing with Cam's brain or other vital organs are always so much less stressful. The visit started in the waiting room when the receptionist asked if Cameron has had a cough recently, to which he promptly coughed...multiple times...in order to get a fun mask. ;)

Tuesday, June 2, 2015

National Running Day Interview

National Running Day is TOMORROW, June 3, 2015!
I participated, with a bunch of fellow Sweat Pink Ambassadors, who all completed this set of interview questions in preparation for National Running Day! Thank you Kristen at Jonesin' for a run for sharing this with us all!



1. Why do you run?
I know that there are a hundred reasons that I could list as to why I run and why I continue to run. It all started with a push to raise some money and has grown into (recently) part of my everyday life. Running keeps me honest and humble, patient and energized, goal-seeking and motivated. I run to get outside, to feel the endorphins and to get away. I run to be strong and accomplished and to be an active role model for Cameron.

2. How do you plan to celebrate National Running Day?
My marathon training schedule has me doing 3 miles tomorrow, June 3rd.

3. How many miles have you run so far this year?
Great question – I have no idea! I have never added them up. Now I may have to! ;)

4. What big events do you have on the race calendar so far this year?
My first marathon is on October 18, 2015. The Baystate Marathon in Lowell, MA! I’ll also be doing the Monadnock Half Marathon in Rindge, NH on August 9th as a prep-race.

5. Before you leave for a run you must have:
For a short run, I just wear my Garmin and Sparkly Soul Headband (along with the obvious: shirt, sports bra, shorts/capris and Saucony sneaks). For a long run, I’ll wear my fuel belt with some Nuun in it, Garmin, Sparkly Soul Headband, either GU Chomps or Jelly Belly Sport Beans (for runs over an hour), head phones, cell phone and AMR Podcasts downloaded!

6. Do you have one favorite app to track your runs?
I was a Runkeeper user until I got my Garmin. I still occasionally use Runkeeper if my watch needs to be charged. I also love Charity Miles!

7. Who is your favorite running partner?
My BFF Becca and I have a very similar pace and she entertains me on my shorter long runs – I’ll get her to do a 10 miler with me sometime! Right, Bec??

8. What races have you ran so far this year?
Big Lake Half Marathon in Alton, NH on May 9th!

9. If you had to give someone one piece of advice about running what would it be?
Don’t compare yourself to others. Run your own race, your own pace. Comparison is the thief of joy! You’ll never feel the euphoria of completing a race if you are focused on the runners who came in ahead of you.

10.  Describe your relationship with running in one word:

Restorative

Check out the other awesome women who are sharing their interviews:


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As another week of training has come and gone, here's a little recap:
The run streak officially began on Memorial Day Monday:
Monday: 2.20 miles at 10:54 pace
Tuesday: 1.02 miles at 12:01 pace
Wednesday: 3.20 miles at 11:55 pace
Thursday: 4x200s with half mile warm up and half mile cool down
Friday: 1.01 miles at 11:20 pace 
Saturday (sight seeing in Philly): 2.00 miles at an on and off photo-taking pace ;) Then walked 3 miles with friends for more sight seeing.
Sunday: 1.00 treadmill mile starting at 12:00 pace and ending at 10:30 pace.

The 11-12:00 pace has been my go-to while my quad still heals and I crank up the mileage with the run streak. I started out looking at that 12:00min/mi pace and feeling like a bum, but I realized I was feeling that way solely because I didn't want to share that I was going "that slow", because I know I can go faster, but really...who cares? Everyone has their own pace that works for them at any specific time. A mile is a mile, right? 

Thursday, May 28, 2015

We're going STREAKING!!!


Okay, not THAT kind of streaking! ;) 

In my post the other day I asked if anyone else was participating in the Runner's World Run Streak 2015, so I wanted to share why I am!

First off, the running community is incredible, and each time I have the opportunity to participate in an "event", especially a free one that I can do on my own time, I take it! The Runner's World Run Streak is a challenge to run at least one mile each day from Memorial Day until the Fourth of July (41 days, this year). My intention with the challenge is to go about my normal 4 day x week training schedule - Run my scheduled mileage on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturdays. I will add just one super easy mile on Tuesday, Friday and Sundays. My goal is to continue to find motivation to get up, since I have to do all of my workouts early in the morning for two reasons, 1. because its going to start getting really hot! and 2. because its the only time that I know I always have for myself. I have the darndest time getting out of bed to do my lifting & strengthening workouts, so if I have to get up to run a mile, I might as well add in some strengthening routines afterward - especially if I can do it outside in the crisp morning air (doesn't that sound lovely??). 

Another reason to do it, similar to what I mentioned, the support system via social media is so great. The connections I've already made through my blog and through becoming a Sweat Pink Ambassador have already given me the added push. There are quite a few fellow ambassadors also taking on the challenge, so it'll be fun to share our runs together. I enjoy connecting with other runners, and I have a sweet spot for other mother runners. Social media makes it very easy these days to form a support system and find accountability partners who have no bias, and honest and truly want to help each other succeed. So this time is no different.

Lastly, along with motivation to get moving, I want to be really cautious about my nutrition leading up to the high mileage of marathon training. These early weeks, before the load starts to pick up, is the perfect time to play with nutrition - find meals that work to help my body recover, good solid breakfasts after my morning workouts, and nutrient-dense snacks for those hangry moments during the day. Of course, all without doubling our grocery bill...I'll keep you updated on that. ;)

And a side note, I do intend to seriously listen to my body during this challenge. If my quad starts acting up again, or any other injury seems to creep in, I will not continue the streak. This marathon is really important to me, so I don't want to screw it up so early in the training by over doing it.
That said, if anyone else wants to join in, we're on day 4! You don't even need to sign up! Just share your running adventures and use hashtag #RWRunStreak on your social media post to join in the challenge!

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Have you ever participated in a running streak? How long did it last? 
What's your favorite breakfast food?

Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Tee Ball and Marathon Training Week 1!

I mentioned in my last post that I would share some details of the excitement going on in our little lives! Because I have yet to take any "after" photos of our new house, I'll share those another time. ;)

Tee ball has been an adventure over the last 3 weeks. Boy, when I originally looked at the schedule and saw that it was only 5 weeks long, I thought to myself - "That's it!? We pay this money for just 5 weeks of tee ball?" Now, I need no explanation. The kids on Cameron's team are great. The parents are all super helpful and both Shawn (as assistant coach), and head coach Carrington, are trying their best to teach these little boogers the rules and basics of baseball. 4-6 year olds are EXHAUSTING! They're so fun and we've seen great improvements in their skills over the last few weeks, they're just so easily distracted - by the dirt, by the trees, by the caterpillar on the bench, by the dirt again, by the team playing on the other field, ohhh the dirt... You get it. It'll be a bitter/sweet day when Cam's first year of tee ball ends. Anywho, some photos of the "little" Red Sox in action:
Coaches giving a pep talk before the game!
Playing catch to warm up.
Coach Fisk giving batting pointers.

"Good game. Good game. Good game."



Their best game yet - Look! They're all standing in their positions!

Another notch on the excitement list: The Big Lake Half Marathon!
This was the first half marathon that I ran without a cheering squad, or anyone familiar present. During the halfs that I've done in the past, I've always looked forward to the time when I can high five family and/or friends on the side walk. Its a fantastic push and energizing moment to see Shawn and Cameron off to the side cheering me on as I run by, and there when I cross the finish line.
This time, I left the house just after 5am by myself, and made my way to Alton, NH. What a beautiful little town! The check in was so quick and easy, and it was about a quarter mile walk to the starting line. Because we were in the valley of the mountains and right down by the lake, there was NO signal, so my Garmin would not "get location". I really didn't mind, even though I was having a little panic attack when it wouldn't start - for no good reason, really! It was absolutely beautiful!
The views of Lake Winnipesaukee were incredible and there were so many aid stations, I barely used the Nuun in my fuel belt (which worked well as a recovery drink after the race!). When I crossed the finish line, the first thing I did was call Shawn - who was at tee ball practice with Cameron. It was nice to be able to walk around to the different vendors and relax a little before getting on the bus to go back to my car. Even though I didn't have my cheering squad, I did appreciate being able to take my time to stretch and walk around a bit!

Crossing the finish line of the Big Lake half was the official start of my marathon training. I took the next week completely off, because my quad was a little sore longer than any of the other muscles in my leg, and I am really trying to make sure I'm being careful.

So, a little Week 1 training in review:
Monday was my first run 3.01 miles at 11:37 pace
Tuesday is strength day - I focused on my core and am going to be especially cautious of my hip flexors and glutes when strength training, to make sure my muscles are strong and healthy to help prevent injury!
Wednesday another 3.00 miles at 11:36 pace
Thursday will be a speed work/hill workout day when I'm confident that my quad is good to go, so for now, I took that day off and slept in an extra 45 minutes
Friday Cam and I did our weekly yoga!
I decided to swap my Saturday and Sunday workouts this weekend because ...yard saling! ;) So Saturday was technically "rest" day this week
Sunday I did just about 4.5 mi at 11:50 pace then joined my friend Cait for her weekly yoga in the park class at 10am!
Total mileage: 10.5
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Anyone else feeling extremely slowed down by the humidity over the last few days?
Who else is participating in the Runner's World Run Streak 2015??

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Excitement List!

So many things have been happening in the Cyr household lately!

Here's the list of excitement:
We bought and moved into our first house!

I became a Sweat Pink Ambassador!
<<<< Check out my sweet badge!

Cameron started tee ball for the first time!

We had Cam's IEP meeting in preparation for him to start Kindergarten.


I ran my last half marathon before marathon training officially begins!

My donor page for the CHaD HERO has officially opened!


After the Big Lake Half Marathon this past weekend, and the quad strain, I decided to take this week as a complete recovery week before I really, REALLY start training for the Baystate Marathon. I'm looking forward to planning some fundraising events and will share them on my social media pages. If someone you know might be interested, but may not be connected with me, please be sure to share, share, share! I've posted a link directly to my donor page right here (scroll up, on the left!), so you don't even have to go far! ;)

More on the individual excitement points soon! (Especially pictures of the house! WHOO!)