tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71317087486397486672024-03-13T11:44:46.282-05:00Endurance for EducationBraving Through Challenging Races in Support of Education!LivingBetterDailyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16196312084638572837noreply@blogger.comBlogger53125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-13161298625585958172011-08-31T07:00:00.000-05:002011-08-31T07:00:09.826-05:00Survey Says....<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yoxjtYGYtRg/TlWZXEUlIlI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/I5UelqxDBjg/s1600/survey-pic21.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 262px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644586329554887250" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yoxjtYGYtRg/TlWZXEUlIlI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/I5UelqxDBjg/s320/survey-pic21.jpg" /></a>
<br />My class took their beginning of the program survey. Remember these are third grade students who read the survey themselves and answered the questions. There were 26 students who participated.
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<br />1) Rate your fitness level 1-5 with 5 being the highest.
<br />- 1= 0 Students
<br />- 2=3 Students
<br />- 3=6 Students
<br />- 4=7 Students
<br />- 5=10 Students
<br />(Some think highly of themselves! Haha. At this age some are still in the egocentric stages.)
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<br />2) Rate your nutrition level 1-5 with 5 being the highest.
<br />- 1= 0 Students
<br />- 2=3 Students
<br />- 3=10 Students
<br />- 4=8 Students
<br />- 5=5 Students
<br />(Appears to be a bit more accurate.)
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<br />3) How many times a week do you participate in a physical activity?
<br />a. 0-2 times a week =16 Students
<br />b. 3-5 times a week = 5 Students
<br />c. More than 5 times a week = 5 Students
<br />(16 students participate in a physical activity only 0-2 times a week, yet 10 rate their fitness at a 5. Hmmm...)
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<br />4) How many servings of fruits and vegetables do you each day?
<br />a. 0-2 times a day =10 Students
<br />b. 3-5 times a day = 13 Students
<br />c. More than 5 times a day = 3 Students
<br />(Way to go you 3 students that eat 5 a day! It’s a hard task for me to do also.)
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<br />5) How many times do you eat fast food each week?
<br />a. 0-2 times a week =16 Students
<br />b. 3-5 times a week = 6 Students
<br />c. More than 5 times a week = 4 Students
<br />(10 students each fast food 3 or more times a week! Goodness.)
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<br />I think this survey alone, even though it’s a small percent of students in our school, was eye opening to me. I cannot wait to get the whole schools information tallied up! I think seeing all those answers will allow our committee to see what has really been set before us. Ready for the challenge? I am! Lets help our kiddos discovery their health!
<br />Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-57614160035239205912011-08-24T07:00:00.000-05:002011-08-24T19:36:44.453-05:00Discover Your Health<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MpbWbKA96TA/TlWY_3XR1hI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/aRog842LDwI/s1600/apple-health.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 213px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644585930939553298" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MpbWbKA96TA/TlWY_3XR1hI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/aRog842LDwI/s320/apple-health.jpg" /></a>
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<br /><div>We are discovering our health at Discovery School of Tulsa! As many of you know I am a 3rd grade teacher. I have been elected to head up our Healthy School Initiative committee after attending a workshop over the summer with a group of co-teachers. Our committee is very excited about many different things. I personally am excited because not only will I be trying to implement this in my class, but we will be implementing this program through the entire school!
<br />We are starting the program by having students put in their ideas for a name for our program. We want to get the kids involved and give them ownership right away! Other first steps in this program include:
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<br /><div>- Raised indoor garden bed in cafeteria so students can see the process of where their food comes from.
<br />- Eliminating junk food as snacks, parties and PTO store within our school.
<br />- Encouraging kids to get active while at recess (believe it or not some kids just stand in one place or will sit). </div>
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<br />Although these are small changes for the start we have larger plans ahead also: </div>
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<br />- We plan to attach a healthy idea in the weekly PTO letter.
<br />- We hope to get 6 raised outdoor garden beds (and later even expand it to an outdoor classroom) so students can actually start trying new fruits and vegetables.
<br />- We would like to get a bike rack for our school.
<br />- We plan to implement school clubs that promote healthy students.
<br />- We want to have a school team at the Tulsa Run this year.
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<br /><div>The planning could go on and on with the things we hope to be able to do at our school. Our mission is to find ways to get our students thinking about where their food comes from so that they may make healthy choices. While they start to think about their food choices we want them to also be thinking about other choices such as their amount of physical activity. As teachers we see a great need for these issues to be taught and practiced at school. We see firsthand how students are affected by the choices they make or sometimes choices that are even made for them. We have set out on a mission to help our student and their families discover their health!
<br />As a part of our program our students will take a survey at the beginning, middle and end of the school year to see how the program is working. There are questions such as rate your fitness and nutrition level, how many fruits and vegetables do you eat, how many time do you participate in physical activity a week and how often do you eat fast food. I have already started to compile the data. Some of it is very shocking! Check back next week to see how my 3rd grade class answered the survey! </div>
<br />Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-7024956279638509072011-08-17T07:00:00.000-05:002011-08-17T07:00:00.418-05:00First Real Bike Ride<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TQmijjzCZ6I/Tkm6oR9pcdI/AAAAAAAAAJs/2N52tFGuZ0s/s1600/14012372_BG1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 172px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641245209437762002" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TQmijjzCZ6I/Tkm6oR9pcdI/AAAAAAAAAJs/2N52tFGuZ0s/s320/14012372_BG1.jpg" /></a>
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<br /><div>Let’s see….I have been so busy with the new workout routine along with school starting. Let’s start with the bike. I ordered the bike on a Saturday because my last ride was just so awful on the recumbent bike. I was hoping to get in before Tuesday that way I could actually ride it for my next bike workout. I did not get the bike on Tuesday, nor did I get the bike on Thursday for my next bike ride. Finally, on Friday I received my bike! I went to get it fit, brought it home, went on a short ride and then went on a 2 hour and 20 minute bike ride first thing Saturday morning. </div>
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<br />On the short ride on Friday night it was a bit scary for me. I couldn’t seem to get my shoes in the pedals, the chain was making noises and I was afraid to ride over anything! Luckily Ryan came out and gave me a few pointers. I learned I need to be coasting to get the second foot in and with a bit of practice that seems to work. I also learned that the chain makes that noise when I need to shift gears, which is a whole new experience! And it’s okay to run over some things, just don’t slam on the breaks while I do it. Luckily, my first real bike ride turned out much better than my <a href="http://enduranceforeducation.blogspot.com/2011/08/new-training-routine.html">first stationary bike ride</a>! No blood or missing skin.</div>
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<br />Saturday was the time of truth. I was sent out on my own for a two and a half hour bike ride. With the few pointers from the night before I was sure I would be set. I was able to get my feet in the pedals! Score! Off to a good start.</div>
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<br />Here are the chain of events that took place: </div>
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<br />- A guy passes me. I slow down because I don’t want to go through the water puddle. I was going to let him pass and then miss the water puddle. He says to me, “It’s okay. Keep pedaling.” Ha. Could he tell I was new? </div>
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<br />- The running trail and biking trail meet up together in some spots and then splits again. Well…I accidently went towards the running trail…twice. People looked at me like I was crazy. If they only knew how many times I had RAN that trail they would understand it is almost innate now.</div>
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<br />- I kicked it up to the big gear half way through the ride, which I think might suppose to be pretty exciting. </div>
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<br />- This women totally sized me up as I passed her. Granted I am sure people can tell I am new at this. As I passed her she watched me move through her zone. She looks at my pedals all the way to my helmet. No I don’t have clip in shoes, No I don’t have a bike jersey, No my helmet is not crazy expensive and Yes I just passed you. </div>
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<br />- I fell in with a cycling group and rode with them for a few miles. I had no idea what any of the hand motions meant. </div>
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<br />So all in all it was a great bike ride! I am ready for the next one.
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<br /><div>Now onto school and the next project. School will be starting tomorrow! 28 little ones will be walking through my door at 8 a.m. As a part of some training that I went to this summer we have started a committee at our school called the Healthy School Initiative Committee. In our training it was about bringing agriculture into the school so that students can learn where their food comes from so that they may make healthy choices. Along with this whole campaign comes healthy lifestyles in general which includes getting active. Our two main goals for our school are to get students moving and eating healthy to put it into a broad spectrum. We have set particular goals, activities and ways to monitor the success of the program. I was very excited about this all as it is right up my alley of what I had tried to do <a href="http://enduranceforeducation.blogspot.com/p/previous-projects.html">last school year </a>just on a larger scale. With that being said I was elected by the group to be the head of the committee. Right now I am trying to figure out how this whole Healthy School Initiative program could be my focus for this school year for the Endurance for Education program. Currently, I am brainstorming but will be making a decision very soon as we need to kick off the project! </div>
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<br />Check back next Wednesday to see an update on how things are going! </div>
<br />Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-33753536651095542092011-08-10T07:00:00.000-05:002011-08-10T07:00:00.247-05:00A New Training Routine<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R5bMQybCTTA/Tj8tHxAZtII/AAAAAAAAAJk/4eMe7JlYyjI/s1600/untitled.bmp"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 211px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5638274869928506498" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R5bMQybCTTA/Tj8tHxAZtII/AAAAAAAAAJk/4eMe7JlYyjI/s320/untitled.bmp" /></a><br /><br /><div>Last week I started a new training routine. Previously, I had been running 5 days a week. My legs were often exhausted and I would resort to rolling them sometimes several times a day to try to make them feel better. After talking to Ryan for some time about the benefit of working different systems and cross training I decided that I would start biking some to help in my training. I was quite skeptical about it because I did not want to lose my fitness in the running department, not to mention I haven’t biked since I was maybe 13 years old! So like I said on Monday of last week I started a new workout schedule that has me running 3 days a week and biking 3 days a week. </div><br /><div><br />With me not owning a bike and me not knowing if I was going to like biking I decided to just bike on a recumbent bike that is at my gym for a few weeks. Day one of biking: I have no idea how to adjust the seat for appropriate distance between the pedal and seat. My leg starts to go numb so I shift in my seat which then causes me to hit my knee on the machine. I look down and my knee is bleeding and my skin is hanging off the bike! I think to myself, “Oh great, if I manage to do this on a stationary bike what is going to happen if I get a real moving one?” Day two of the bike: I bring a book and magazine. Quite boring. I watch some tv and I have to get up several times to massage my own butt. Day three of biking: Two and a half hour bike ride. Wow. I read, text, watch tv, anything to keep my mind off the numbing of my right leg. I feel something between my toes like the fabric of my sock. I stop to fix it, but then realize it’s just a tingling sensation of my toes falling asleep. Again, I am up multiple times to massage my rear end. At the end of the ride I decide I must purchase a bike if I am going to continue this workout routine! Saturday night I purchase a bike! </div><br /><div><br />It has been so crazy to me how much of a difference my running workouts have been this week due to the riding. My legs actually felt fresh every run without even rolling! I managed to run faster than previously. I am starting out slow on the bike, but my muscles feel good after biking as well. Last week I learned a lot about staying active daily, yet letting muscles recover rather than wearing the same ones down constantly. I think this will help me when talking to my kiddos this school year about being active! Check back next Wednesday to see an update on how bike riding is going along with what is going on with the next project! </div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-86742450392294966882011-08-03T07:00:00.000-05:002011-08-03T07:00:06.639-05:00Another New Project On Its Way!The summer is now over. I am spending time back in my classroom getting it ready for a new round of students. I am getting excited about the things to come with this project! Over the summer it was a bit different for me in the sense that I did not get to work with the kids daily on the project. Therefore, I am looking forward to the next step in this process where I am back with the kiddos everyday trying to make a difference.<br />Along with setting up the classroom I am working on getting the next project settled! When final accomidiation have been made I will let you know the details! Until next time- keep active :)Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-6261639175795938692011-07-28T17:00:00.000-05:002011-07-30T10:41:38.704-05:00Active Children, Books and Smiles<div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gb1THgHrx6o/TjQk5VKOvMI/AAAAAAAAAI8/I83paVRGFx8/s1600/024.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635169601098529986" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gb1THgHrx6o/TjQk5VKOvMI/AAAAAAAAAI8/I83paVRGFx8/s320/024.JPG" /></a>The summer is coming to an end and so is Project Transformation. Today was the last day of this amazing literacy camp. With this last day came many children, lots of books and countless smiles. We had sacks of books for those children that participated in the program. They earned a new book for every 5 hours of physical activity they did at home. The great part about it was that I worked with our reading coordinator to make sure the kids were receiving books on their reading level!<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jpd8i4B7vdQ/TjQlWxHHulI/AAAAAAAAAJc/2ZjdNCB2M7A/s1600/021.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635170106817886802" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jpd8i4B7vdQ/TjQlWxHHulI/AAAAAAAAAJc/2ZjdNCB2M7A/s320/021.JPG" /></a> When it was time for the child to be picked up the child would go through a small assembly line to pick up their reading folder, craft project, a certificate and then their books. Everyone in the camp got to then choose another book, no matter if they did or did not participate in the Endurance for Education program.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NHu6vw_6sE8/TjQlWigE6LI/AAAAAAAAAJU/2D3PIhb6zg4/s1600/016.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635170102896027826" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NHu6vw_6sE8/TjQlWigE6LI/AAAAAAAAAJU/2D3PIhb6zg4/s320/016.JPG" /></a>The students were excited when they realized they were getting books. One student asked, “How many can I have?” Another said, “OH, so many books for me to read!”We even let other siblings from the family who did not attend our program to choose a book. One parent was interested in a book as well so I told her she could have it. It was amazing to see all of the interest for books!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qu8y4tCW14I/TjQlWTj2J1I/AAAAAAAAAJM/qC6wBVdti30/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635170098885306194" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qu8y4tCW14I/TjQlWTj2J1I/AAAAAAAAAJM/qC6wBVdti30/s320/013.JPG" /></a>Thirty three children accumulated 401 hours and 23 minutes of physical activity over six weeks! I hope that getting these kids active for these 6 weeks allowed them to start creating healthy habits not only for themselves but for their whole family! Today we gave out over 200 brand new books to children that are eager to read! My wish for all these children are that stay active, read their new books and smile while they do it! That would mean my goal was accomplished for this project!<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-997FYrA6XYA/TjQk5rs0D6I/AAAAAAAAAJE/VnH9mTUKiNE/s1600/025.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635169607149162402" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-997FYrA6XYA/TjQk5rs0D6I/AAAAAAAAAJE/VnH9mTUKiNE/s320/025.JPG" /></a> </div></div></div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-90451122544974689442011-07-20T07:00:00.002-05:002011-07-20T07:00:10.566-05:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t8u6yxvAdwM/TiTSzntLBVI/AAAAAAAAAI0/YpV5qGB-Sw4/s1600/Run%2BLogo-gray.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 299px; height: 143px;" 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font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]-->What a great name of a race! I always feel like I am running for some children (be my students at school or Project Transformation campers), but this just made it more concrete. On Saturday I ran the 2011 5K Run for the Children hosted by <a href="http://www.dillonadopt.com/">Dillon International</a> which is an adoption agency here in Tulsa. I felt the need to do a little race. Sometimes long periods of training without racing gets a little boring, so I feel the need to spice it up a bit. I had been debating on racing or not the past few weeks. Like I said I felt the need, but I also had been feeling the Oklahoma heat which tells me I have no need to race! I typically go out running at about 5:30 a.m. and the race would take place at 7:30. With that time difference it may already be 95 degrees by then! After some thinking I decided to do it! <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0in;">At about 6 a.m. when I woke up I step outside and think, <span style=";font-family:";" >“</span>Oh, this isn’t too bad.<span style=";font-family:";" >”</span> However, I didn’t consider, or maybe I should say imagine, how hot it could get within one hour. An hour later I arrive at my destination to get ready and do a little warm up. The race coordinators arranged for water to be available before the race started for the runners. When I heard the announcer say water was available prerace I kind of laughed to myself and asked myself why I had decided to race in mid July. Before long I had a prerace water bottle in my hand. I drank some, but tried hard not to drink too much where I would have a full belly. At the two minute warning I drenched myself with the rest of the water. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0in;">The gun went off. The crowd moved forward in a wave of movement. I start off way fast: 6:40 pace. I’m trying to find where I fit in the crowd. I fall between the first way fast group and the second pretty fast group. There are two small boys in front of me running their hearts out. Maybe 8 or 10 years old. At first I feel ashamed that they are running faster than me, and then quickly feel hopeful for them. Hoping that they endure through the race. Hoping that they endure through many more physical activities through their lifetime. A few strides later the boys start to slow down and I pass them. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0in;">1K comes and goes. 2K comes. I already start to play games. Telling myself that I’m half way done when in reality I’m not quite there yet. A water stop is ahead. I had decided before the race I would not stop for water like I did at the last 5K which cost me 3<sup>rd</sup> place overall women by 2 seconds. Instead I grab the cup while maintaining speed and just pour it on myself. My legs are getting fatigued as I don’t typically run this fast for this long and especially not in this heat. My breathing is getting heavy. It’s just so much harder to breathe when it is so hot and humid! At this point I am pretty much alone. The people in front of me are too far ahead to use as targets and I have no idea if anyone is behind me, but it is pretty silent so I assume there is not. The thought of walking enters my mind. I tell myself no way its only 3 miles! But before I can get that thought through my head my legs are walking. I walk it out for about 30 seconds which helps me regain my composure and begin to run again. It’s getting quite warm! Why did I decide to race in mid July again? </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0in;">A bit later I am by myself again and end up walking for about 15 seconds. I did not have enough time to catch my breath, but one girl passed me and three more people run up beside me. I decide at that moment I will not let them all pass me without a fight. I start to run again staying with them. Now I have someone to stay with, someone to hold on to. I stay with one guy as we drop the other two. We come out of the wooded area. I know the finish is coming up, but not close enough to make a kick yet. I focus on the girl that had passed me earlier. I am trying to catch up with her. My legs are hurting. I really don’t want to go any faster. I know there were some fast girls up front so I didn’t have an overall placement and I sure didn’t want to lose my age group placement without a fight. I didn’t know if that lady was in my age group or not, but just in case she was I needed to attach. She started looking at her watch as we approached. I just knew at any minute she would start to sprint. A wave of nausea hit me. I really didn’t want to run faster!<span style=""> </span>I manage to work my way beside her. I tell myself remember to pass with a vengeance. I pass her with just enough room at the end to think, <span style=";font-family:";" >“</span>I sure hope I can keep this pace all the way to the finish. I might have started this just a bit too early.<span style=";font-family:";" >”</span> As I am getting fairly close to the finish I hear footsteps coming up behind me. I start to see a shadow of someone’s head come up under my feet. Then, my legs start to move even faster! I think, <span style=";font-family:";" >“</span>I passed her. I am not letting her pass me back this close to the finish!<span style=";font-family:";" >”</span> I cross the mat at 24:13 before the other person. Come to find out it was not even that women, it was someone else that was coming up on me. It felt good to know even after walking twice with hurting legs and a wave of nausea I was still able to kick out a 6 minute pace finish! I finished 6<sup>th</sup> overall women and 1<sup>st</sup> in my age group! </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0in;">Back in February I did the same course in 23:21 and it was about 40-50 degrees cooler. I knew the heat would slow me down, but I figured my speed training would help me as well. Seeing how I added less than a minute to my time with walking twice I suppose it ended up okay. If only I wouldn’t have walked I would have beat my previous time. Although I have mixed emotions about walking and what I could have done if I hadn’t. I know that at that moment I needed to walk. And even though I chose to walk I managed to pump out a decent time, have a sprint finish and capture first place in my age group! Saturday was another run that I got to learn from, another experience I got to enjoy, and another run for the children!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-16198644248018920332011-07-17T18:46:00.002-05:002011-07-17T18:57:51.280-05:00National Education Association<iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/kxfAzilmT2o" allowfullscreen="" width="425" frameborder="0" height="349"></iframe><br /><br />I belong to the National Education Association which is a large teacher organization across the US. As a member we receive a bimonthly magazine. Several months ago I was looking through the magazine and made the comment, "Some day I want to be in this magazine." One thing lead to another when I was contacted by the National Education Association asking if they could interview me for an article for the magazine! I was so very excited as this came much sooner than I had expected!<br />Soon after we set up a time for the interview and it took place. You can read the digital article <a href="http://www.nea.org/home/45445.htm?utm_medium=email&utm_source=nea_today_express&utm_campaign=20110720PlayingPolitics&utm_content=SuperheroBrown">here</a>! I am looking in the mail daily to see the article published. I can only imagine the feeling that will consume me when I see that article about the project when not so long ago I blatantly stated I wanted this to happen! Its such an accomplishing feeling already!<br /><br />Thank you to every single person who has aided me in this project through financial contributions, inspiration and support!Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-1290879145033835052011-07-13T07:00:00.001-05:002011-07-13T07:00:02.455-05:00Questions of the Day<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">What was your favorite physical activity this week and why?</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Qp_2KNBHrU/ThY5AcX7D-I/AAAAAAAAAIU/Ndwn--vyVQI/s1600/Picture2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Qp_2KNBHrU/ThY5AcX7D-I/AAAAAAAAAIU/Ndwn--vyVQI/s320/Picture2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626747464225329122" border="0" /></a>"Wii Sports and Michaele Jackson Dancing"<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hj9GZCXlnvE/ThY5AORVDRI/AAAAAAAAAIM/jeWzYQtQIrc/s1600/Picture1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 148px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Hj9GZCXlnvE/ThY5AORVDRI/AAAAAAAAAIM/jeWzYQtQIrc/s320/Picture1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626747460439575826" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">"Musical Chairs. It may play my favorit song's.<br />You may know if you will get a chair.<br />It is a game full of surprises"<br /></div><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Now my turn to answer: My favorite physical activity this week was my treadmill run. On Wednesdays I do a run for a certain amount of time at a certain speed 5 times, changing the speed each time. This is a weekly run that I do however each week the time increases. The first week I started with 5 minute intervals and then worked my way up. Today was the first day that I did 10 minute intervals! I started with 10 minutes at 9 minute mile pace, then did another 10 at 8 minute mile pace, next was at 7:45, finally a 7:13 pace and lastly a 10 minute interval back at 9 minute pace to cool down. Sometimes the fastest interval is so hard for me I have to walk some of the last cool down interval. But today I was able to tough it all out and even complete the whole cool down interval! That was my favorite physical activity of the week because I felt like I reached a goal. Now I get to set a new goal!</span><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;">What physical activity would you like to try next week and why?<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lOHYRGvyc0U/ThY7BYHHyaI/AAAAAAAAAIs/jRrcPFwEKlk/s1600/Picture4.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 153px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lOHYRGvyc0U/ThY7BYHHyaI/AAAAAAAAAIs/jRrcPFwEKlk/s320/Picture4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626749679284242850" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">"I would like to run a marathon because my mom likes to run them."</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lce4nL9nIXo/ThY5ApKA5XI/AAAAAAAAAIc/EL8L2VUeYxY/s1600/Picture3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 154px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lce4nL9nIXo/ThY5ApKA5XI/AAAAAAAAAIc/EL8L2VUeYxY/s320/Picture3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626747467656652146" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: normal;">"Karate Because you get to chop things every day. I like doing thos thing."</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal; font-style: italic;">Again, time for me to answer: The physical activity that I would like to try next week would be the spin bike. I have been considering getting a bike at the new year. I have heard biking is a great way for runners to cross train. I also think it would be cool to participate in some duathlons. A spin bike would be a good way to try out biking without having to purchase a real bike. Maybe I will try one out at a gym!</span><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">(I thought the kids answers and drawings were great! They made me smile. :)<br />I hope they did the same for you!)</span><br /></div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-57948186174303043222011-07-06T07:00:00.000-05:002011-07-05T10:40:29.936-05:00Kids in Force<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yc3YwFJoY2I/ThMuK4SJITI/AAAAAAAAAIE/DjvUc6zKqag/s1600/Kids%2Bin%2BForce.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 291px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yc3YwFJoY2I/ThMuK4SJITI/AAAAAAAAAIE/DjvUc6zKqag/s320/Kids%2Bin%2BForce.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5625891123957932338" border="0" /></a>Your child is already tracking their physical activity time for the project. If they take it a step further by tracking how many fruit and veggies they eat they can earn even more prizes with this program! Just one more way to get our kids making healthy choices to create lifestyle changes!<br /><br />In 2010 Sage Fruit Company implemented the Kids in Force program to educate our youth on the importance of health and nutrition ultimately empowering them to their full potential and a healthier lifestyle. <p>Childhood Obesity is a growing epidemic that is affecting our future. School programing has struggled with funding for Health Education and after school activities leaving our children without healthy options. Through Kids in Force, we hope to educate and get our children involved in making healthy eating decisions as well as encouraging them to play and get physical activity each day.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">The outline of the program is simple, the more you decide to eat healthy and get daily activity, the more points you get! Your points add up and can be redeemed for some amazing prizes. But the biggest reward is better health!</p> <p>First, download your official Kids in Force <a href="http://www.sagefruit.com/pdf/KIF.pdf">guidelines</a> and <a href="http://www.sagefruit.com/pdf/KIFtracking.pdf">activity tracking sheet</a>. While you are there, check out our various activities and resources! Download the KIF form and print it out for your record keeping.</p> <p>Fill out the required contact information and begin logging your activities and food choices! Once you reach your desired points and prize level, simply mail the form to the address provided on the bottom of the form and you’ll receive your prize in the mail!</p> <p>Points do not accumulate from previous sent in forms, so save your points until you reach the point level and prize you want before sending it in. Once you send in one form, you can start over again and redeem for a different prize! Just please one form/prize every 60 days.</p><p><a href="http://www.sagefruit.com/FruitKids.aspx">*Information from Sage Fruit Website</a><br /></p>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-49087276874025208892011-06-29T07:00:00.004-05:002011-06-29T07:00:02.973-05:00Exercises for You to Enjoy<div style="text-align: center;">This week we wanted to give you a few exercises videos to enjoy!<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/g6B_OaTQm2I" allowfullscreen="" width="425" frameborder="0" height="349"></iframe><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/jkamxEvx8ZA" allowfullscreen="" width="425" frameborder="0" height="349"></iframe><br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/tdtzTG6_caA" allowfullscreen="" width="560" frameborder="0" height="349"></iframe><br /><br />Check back next week for some more words from the kids!<br />We will also get to see how much physical activity the kids have logged!<br /></div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-14299318524402816842011-06-22T07:05:00.001-05:002011-06-21T20:29:30.838-05:00Get More Free Books!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKJVai5o-Hc/TgFD2BIt28I/AAAAAAAAAH8/pAB5MP_mBHI/s1600/books.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 247px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKJVai5o-Hc/TgFD2BIt28I/AAAAAAAAAH8/pAB5MP_mBHI/s320/books.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620848405232081858" border="0" /></a><br />As a special bonus for reading this blog and being involved we have a special offer for you! If you go to our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/EnduranceforEducation" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> and "like" it you will be put in a drawing for 5 brand new children books!<br /><br />Another way to get your name in the drawing is to get friends to "like" the page.<br /><br />How does this get you in the drawing again?<br /><br />They "like" the page (which gets them in the drawing!) then they write: <b><i>"Your name</i></b> wants free books!" in a comment on the wall of the group. That way I know who referred them to the page.<br /><br />Then the both of you are entered to win! So tell your friends and family!Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-17438878651960972782011-06-22T07:00:00.001-05:002011-06-21T20:28:51.439-05:00Some Words from the Kids<div style="text-align: center;">The kids logged a total of 50 hours and 50 minutes of activity in week one!<br />480 hours is our goal for the summer.<br /><br />The first writing prompts are in! Let's take a look at a few!<br />"Why do you think being active everyday is important to your healthy?"<br />(You can double click images for a larger view.)<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BcShqRwPFcU/TgE7PzY0FWI/AAAAAAAAAHc/uWb-gEZGKY4/s1600/3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 233px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BcShqRwPFcU/TgE7PzY0FWI/AAAAAAAAAHc/uWb-gEZGKY4/s320/3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620838952613451106" border="0" /></a>"I think being active helps me stay strong. Being active is fun. It keeps you healthy."<br />Cortney 2nd Grade<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-57C-rgHLhRs/TgE7PhVtc_I/AAAAAAAAAHU/_PcFDpHdgWg/s1600/2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 233px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-57C-rgHLhRs/TgE7PhVtc_I/AAAAAAAAAHU/_PcFDpHdgWg/s320/2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620838947768595442" border="0" /></a>"Because it makes your bones stronger, in makes you healther, it helps you grow. And it is important to have fun and stay active every day and eat lots of fruit and vegetables and stay in shape for the rest of your life."<br />Asia- 6th Grade<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O8m2Ko9cpW0/TgE7Pd3cjDI/AAAAAAAAAHM/vc-SCTjRhj8/s1600/1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 233px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O8m2Ko9cpW0/TgE7Pd3cjDI/AAAAAAAAAHM/vc-SCTjRhj8/s320/1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620838946836352050" border="0" /></a>"It helps your blood pump. It helps your body grow. It keeps you from getting sick."<br />Natalia- 3rd Grade<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IFJPIbUEMY8/TgE77YXVgsI/AAAAAAAAAH0/KX00qBgUjWo/s1600/4.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 233px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IFJPIbUEMY8/TgE77YXVgsI/AAAAAAAAAH0/KX00qBgUjWo/s320/4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5620839701273739970" border="0" /></a>"It keeps you in shape, keeps you healthy, and it helps you live a better life.<br />And helps you live longer."<br /><div style="text-align: center;">Jolene- 5th Grade<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I was very excited to see the understanding from these children and many others! It is great that they know why being active is important and they view being active as a positive thing!<br /><br />On the other hand some of the children writings included phrases like: "You won't get fat and lazy." "It is important to exercise to not get fat." "It will keep you healthy, strong and skinny." These are phrases that make me sad. I want children to see beyond physical activity as what determines if you are fat or skinny. We want children understanding that exercise makes us feel better, aids us in our moods and sleep, strengthens our muscles and bones along with helps our overall health! We want children to get away from thinking they need to exercise just so they don't "get fat" or so that they can "be skinny".<br /><br />Throughout this project we are encouraging all children to get active so that they can lead a healthier life no matter what shape or size their body is! We can do this by making sure to avoid negative comments about body image and talk about positive side effects of exercise. Help us in this huge endeavor by making physical activities a positive thing in your household!<br /></div></div><br /></div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-11212422510470812252011-06-15T07:00:00.000-05:002011-06-15T07:00:12.407-05:00"What are you doing?"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sfRjN8zXjL4/TfawycZUxzI/AAAAAAAAAHE/ebLvUm6y9sg/s1600/stydrobrug120.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 224px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sfRjN8zXjL4/TfawycZUxzI/AAAAAAAAAHE/ebLvUm6y9sg/s320/stydrobrug120.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617871965853632306" border="0" /></a><br />Some people have been asking, "So...What are you doing?" referring to my training. On the last project it was a lot about me enduring through those long runs. However, for this project there has not been a lot of talk about my workouts so people are starting to ask. Today I will tell you a little bit about that, but first I want to give an update on the kiddos. This week the folders went home with the kids. They have started logging their physical activity time and will complete their first writing prompt. This weeks writing prompt is: Why do you think being active everyday is important to your health? Next week we will have some of the responses featured!<br /><br />Now back to the question of: What are you doing? Over the summer I tend not to race much because my whole goal is to beat the heat and rarely do races start early enough to do so. My focus right now is to prepare for 3 big races in the fall. There is a 6.5 mile trail run in September, a 9.3 mile race in October and a half marathon on November. These 3 races where races that I participated in last year when I first started running. I was pretty satisfied with two of the races, but I know with all my training and build from the marathon I can now do better. I have set goals for each of these races and I am working hard to achieve them even now through the summer. Since the kids are logging their time of physical activity I am doing the same! You can check it out to the right of the screen.<br /><br />As far as workout wise I will give you a little break down of what I typically do.<br /><br />Sunday: 3 miles with hills<br /><br />Monday: 10 minute run warm up. 30 seconds as fast as I can sprint, 30 seconds walk, 30 seconds jog (repeat that 8 times). 10 minute run cool down.<br /><br />Tuesday: 5 miles with hills and P90X ab workout<br /><br />Wednesday: Treadmill Interval Workout<br />This week it will go as follows:<br />8 minutes at 9 minute mile pace<br />8 minutes at 8 minute mile pace<br />8 minutes at 7:45 minute mile pace<br />8 minutes at 7:15 minute mile pace<br />8 minutes at 9 minute mile pace<br /><br />The past 3 weeks I have done 30 minutes to an hour of yoga as well. I heard yoga was good for athletes so I have started trying it out.<br /><br />Thursday: REST!!!<br />If I feel up to it I do P90X abs.<br /><br />Friday: Long Run<br />This week: 10 miles<br />I started my build completely over after the marathon to allow my body to recover.<br /><br />Saturday: REST!!!<br /><br />Now you know what I am doing this summer! I am really excited to see what the kids do to get active and also read about their experiences! I am thankful that we get to help create healthy habits in these students lives! Visit next week to read about the students thoughts on why being active is important to their health.Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-72911223528666517192011-06-08T07:00:00.000-05:002011-06-07T16:03:47.332-05:00People Who Are Making This Possible<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GFpNcQUguX8/Te4i45dd0nI/AAAAAAAAAGE/5sf3zajTjn0/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GFpNcQUguX8/Te4i45dd0nI/AAAAAAAAAGE/5sf3zajTjn0/s320/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615464146270016114" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The welcome sign on the first day of PT!<br /><br />I would like to take this time to introduce you to the Americorps members that are making Project Transformation possible at the Muskogee location. These interns have dedicated their summer to the campers to help improve reading abilities, social skills, healthy habits, creativity and critical thinking. They are also allowing Endurance for Education be a part of that!<br /><br />We went to the fire station on the first day!<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kgELwhxLSP4/Te4i5nZstnI/AAAAAAAAAGM/5tIWjmQyK9M/s1600/009.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kgELwhxLSP4/Te4i5nZstnI/AAAAAAAAAGM/5tIWjmQyK9M/s320/009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615464158602245746" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Ryan Krauss- House Chaplain<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xJIouc0sdKQ/Te4lwy05bSI/AAAAAAAAAG8/dLbhrv16_bU/s1600/007.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xJIouc0sdKQ/Te4lwy05bSI/AAAAAAAAAG8/dLbhrv16_bU/s320/007.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615467305585175842" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Alex Kelley- Team Leader<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YZ_fuXDE81c/Te4kT6xPE7I/AAAAAAAAAG0/KCtIYI1wT4I/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YZ_fuXDE81c/Te4kT6xPE7I/AAAAAAAAAG0/KCtIYI1wT4I/s320/008.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615465709989467058" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Marie King- Reading Coordinator<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yhKYavzB_Wc/Te4kTb0I_eI/AAAAAAAAAGs/IHcbb8emlrM/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 274px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yhKYavzB_Wc/Te4kTb0I_eI/AAAAAAAAAGs/IHcbb8emlrM/s320/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615465701680152034" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Cody Clovis- Afternoon Activity Coordinator<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k5WCKHhuJEc/Te4kSozvq_I/AAAAAAAAAGk/exk31aN265E/s1600/011.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k5WCKHhuJEc/Te4kSozvq_I/AAAAAAAAAGk/exk31aN265E/s320/011.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615465687988284402" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Jaleesa Bell-Science/Computer Coordinator<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bg9dk-c_Zos/Te4kR1gkbjI/AAAAAAAAAGc/u5pSEvhf_ZA/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 290px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bg9dk-c_Zos/Te4kR1gkbjI/AAAAAAAAAGc/u5pSEvhf_ZA/s320/003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615465674217647666" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Katy Hamilton- Arts & Crafts Coordinator<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RiRod_CMU7Y/Te4kRJiJNRI/AAAAAAAAAGU/qlXn9q1nYqs/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RiRod_CMU7Y/Te4kRJiJNRI/AAAAAAAAAGU/qlXn9q1nYqs/s320/006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615465662413092114" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Johnny Gonzalez- Recreation Coordinator<br /><br />Thank you to these individuals for allowing Endurance for Education to be a part of their summer program. It is just one more way we can reach out to these students!<br /></div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-86925449967048473692011-06-01T07:00:00.000-05:002011-06-07T16:04:18.387-05:00Lets Get Started!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IKrIXP_I-gs/Tef9BV0tE_I/AAAAAAAAAF4/zqMQeMO8_j4/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IKrIXP_I-gs/Tef9BV0tE_I/AAAAAAAAAF4/zqMQeMO8_j4/s320/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613733660020511730" border="0" /></a>The folders are all set up and complete! On Monday <a href="http://www.okumcministries.org/ProjectTransformation/default.asp">Project Transformation</a> will start. The kiddo's will come in and permission slips for the Endurance for Education project will go out. Each student will receive a folder once their permission slip has been returned. In the folder there will be an introduction note to the parent or guardian, a list of ideas for physical activities, an activity log, a calendar and the first writing prompt. Each week the campers will turn in their folder with the writing prompt from that week and a new one will be placed in there for the following week. Make sure to check the calendar because every other week the activity log will need to be turned in as well. This will allow us to keep track of our total physical activity for the entire group, along with help us keep track of how many books each camper is earning!<br /><br />If your child is enjoying this program you may also want to check into <a href="http://www.sagefruit.com/FruitKids.aspx">Kids in Force</a>. This program is to encourage kids not only to get active, but also to eat healthy. The child logs their activity time (which they already will be doing with the Endurance for Education Project) and the amount of servings they eat of fruit and vegetables. The child earns points and redeems them for prizes. What a great way to extend this program into healthy eating habits!<br /><br />Don't forget you can "like" our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/EnduranceforEducation">Facebook</a> page so that you can get updates on the project through out the summer!Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-83140394455761248602011-05-25T07:00:00.001-05:002011-06-07T16:05:54.317-05:00The Next Project<span style="font-size:85%;"><span style=";font-size:small;color:black;" >This will be my second summer to work with <a href="http://www.okumcministries.org/ProjectTransformation/default.asp">Project Transformation</a></span></span><span style="font-size:small;"><span style="font-size:100%;"> (PT) which is a children's literacy program that believes in transforming lives and revitalizing economically distressed communities by providing educational opportunities. When thinking about what project to do next I thought of PT first thing. I know the kind of impact the program has on these children and I wanted to make that impact even more!<br /><br />During the day at PT students participate in daily rotations of Reading Room (Where each student has an adult to read to. Each student is assessed weekly on their reading level.), Computers (Also some math and science are incorporated.), Arts and Crafts and Recreation. These rotations take place in the morning. Then, in the afternoon students attend field trips, go to the library, swim or have educational visitors come.<br /><br />We will be encouraging students to get active for at least 30 minutes at home each day. With that time and the 30 minutes of Recreation time at PT the students would be fulfilling the hour recommendation for school age students. </span></span><span style="font-size:small;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Seeing how the main focus of PT is literacy I wanted to tie in reading and writing into the Endurance for Education project for this summer. Therefore, students will write once a week about their experience. Then, each student will log their time of physical activity to earn new books!<br /><br />This summer I may be doing a few small races, but my focus right now is recovering from the marathon and getting back into the routine of my physical activities. My focus is on three races I have in the Fall. Since the students will be logging their physical activity I will be doing the same to help myself stay on target for the races in the Fall.<br /><br />Check out our new <a href="http://enduranceforeducation.blogspot.com/p/home.html">home page</a>! A new picture will hopefully be coming soon!<br /></span></span><span style="font-size:small;"></span>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-75073484375704644542011-05-25T07:00:00.000-05:002011-06-07T16:05:34.279-05:00The Project was a Success!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EpkVeBfkxbU/TeQnJbxHy1I/AAAAAAAAAFw/Q97NXjisGUI/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 312px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EpkVeBfkxbU/TeQnJbxHy1I/AAAAAAAAAFw/Q97NXjisGUI/s320/006.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612654078636575570" border="0" /></a><br />The first project is complete and it was a success! The picture above is all the items we were able to purchase with the $1400 raised including two digital cameras and two Flip Cameras. Although the original goal of $2500 was not met we were able to make a huge impact at Discovery School of Tulsa.<br /><br />Through this project I learned many things. I learned more about myself personally and professionally. I also learned about my students, the classroom environment and how curiosity and passion can make a difference within a class.<br /><br />It was a wonderful experience to see students getting excited and relating physical activity to their academics! I can not wait to see the benefits the students reap from these items!<br /><br />Thank you to all of you who supported and made a difference to me, the project and these students!Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-33297145025971380922011-05-18T07:00:00.000-05:002011-06-07T16:05:17.790-05:00Changes<div style="text-align: center;">We are starting to make changes to the website for the new project.<br />Please be patient as we work through this process.<br />Check back often for updates.<br />Or "Like" our page on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/EnduranceforEducation">Facebook</a> and we will let you know when all the changes have been made!<br /><br />Thank you for your support!<br /></div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-80925074319192404692011-05-15T18:45:00.003-05:002011-05-15T18:53:06.964-05:00What's Next?Some people have started asking what is in store next for Endurance for Education. Let me assure you the next project planning is under way. A few last details are getting set. Hopefully next Sunday we can reveal the next project and start revamping the sight for those needs!<br /><br />Thank you so much to all those that donated and followed the first project! This next project will be laid out a little differently, but I think you all will enjoy it as much as you did the first project. Check back next week to see how Endurance for Education is planning to continue to help students!Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-51902850496754217502011-05-13T11:47:00.008-05:002011-05-19T21:18:39.235-05:00Levels, Counters, and Blocks- OH MY!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bu6jXaNiWMI/Tc67N3NeMJI/AAAAAAAAAFo/VvVdqS4z7oU/s1600/003%2B%25283%2529.JPG"><img style="text-align: center; margin: 0px auto 10px; width: 320px; display: block; height: 240px; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606624432955994258" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bu6jXaNiWMI/Tc67N3NeMJI/AAAAAAAAAFo/VvVdqS4z7oU/s320/003%2B%25283%2529.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div>This past week I went to pick up the first round of items which is the third grade class set. Walking into the store I grabbed a hand basket as I typically don't buy enough items to really worry about the space limit. I talk to the lady and let her know what is going on as I hand her the items list. Her eyes grew big once she saw the list. "You are going shopping today!" she said, then tells me I will need a push buggy. </div><br /><div></div><div>She begins roaming around the store finding items. When there are about four items in the buggy I say aloud to a coworker, "Was this worth 16 weeks of training and enduring through a marathon?" She replies, "I don't know. Was it?" I then respond, "I'll let you know when I see all the things sitting in the basket." About 30 minutes later the buggy was full. </div><div></div><br /><div>As she put each item into the buggy I thought how the item would be used. An image would pop in my head of one of my students struggling with a concept previously. Then, an image of them using the tools that were about to be purchased. I am confident these math manipulatives will help my students! At that moment I decided it was worth all the hard work, energy and effort. Now my students will have hands on materials that will help them understand and foster a love for math! :) </div><br /><div></div><div>It was like Christmas as I opened each item. Ryan and I even played with several of the items! If we enjoyed it that much I know my students will be thrilled to use them!</div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-48853713200979663532011-05-05T18:58:00.005-05:002011-05-05T19:34:36.400-05:00Special Message from the Kids<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m2l7tZUjKyg/TcM6j3jEjiI/AAAAAAAAAFg/7hF1sQ7U2MM/s1600/006.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m2l7tZUjKyg/TcM6j3jEjiI/AAAAAAAAAFg/7hF1sQ7U2MM/s400/006.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603386749259910690" border="0" /></a>Each time a donation was made we added it to our chart and discussed place value. The students asked to see the gauge on this blog to see how close we were getting to our goal. Students would make comments such as, "That was generous of them." or "I am glad they care." as we had been focusing on character traits in class. The kids would even bring in money. Money they <a href="http://enduranceforeducation.blogspot.com/2011/03/every-penny-counts.html">found in odd places</a>, money they asked their families to donate and even money they earned instead of buying candy at the PTO store. They knew that that dollar, thirty four cents or even that one, wet penny helped push us closer to our goal.<br /><br />Up to today the project has raised $828 dollars! If we reach $900 we will be able to purchase a whole class set of manipulatives, two digital cameras and two Flip Cameras. This would allow both 3rd grade classes to have all the tools they need for their math curriculum, but it would also give resources for all grades to be able to check out and use! If you have been following this project, been inspired by posts, laughed from the stories then please take the time to <a href="http://enduranceforeducation.blogspot.com/p/donate.html">make a donation</a>. Just as the students realized: Each little bit helps! What little bit can you give?<br /><br />The donation account will be closed after Monday evening so this is your last chance to help kids understand and love the math that is all around them. It's easy! Just put the amount in the Google Checkout in the upper right hand corner. Then, it will walk you through the steps. As simple as that you will be making a difference in children lives!Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-1443654183885374532011-05-04T19:00:00.000-05:002011-05-04T19:11:57.794-05:00Students' Perspectives<p>Below are two cards that I received from students on Monday. </p><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oT4xgM5a5OE/TcCuOPtW3PI/AAAAAAAAAD4/qpPVUZ1bivk/s1600/Card%2B2.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 318px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oT4xgM5a5OE/TcCuOPtW3PI/AAAAAAAAAD4/qpPVUZ1bivk/s320/Card%2B2.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602669496207072498" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Inside caption: You are a sweet teacher and you are fun and I hope your race was good. Your friend Cherish<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TnzCVls5c0Q/TcCuN-0U4zI/AAAAAAAAADw/Bm4-LkgAJck/s1600/Card%2B1.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 210px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TnzCVls5c0Q/TcCuN-0U4zI/AAAAAAAAADw/Bm4-LkgAJck/s320/Card%2B1.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602669491672900402" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Inside caption: Dear Miss brown I wanted to say good job on your marathon and I also need to say that your the best teacher ever! Sined by Sydney<br /><br /><br /><div>Monday morning I shared some information about the marathon with my students. I wore my finishers shirt, showed them my bib and medal along with showed them some pictures. Later that day they got to write in their journals about it all. Here were some of the things they wrote:<br /></div><br /><div>"I am glad you got the metel and teshert. I hope you hade a really good time. I really like the metel. The water on the bib makes it look cool. I am glad you finished the race. I am glad you beat your time." - Nathan<br /></div><br /><div>"I like the medal it is to cool. I want to keep it. Can I keep it please please I will do anything."<br />-Jada</div><br /><div>"Without the tree and the words the medal looks like a steering wheel." -Judah</div><br /><div>"The bib looks like awesome. Your medle looks cool and feels silky." -Sydney</div><br /><div>"Miss. Brown got the medal on May 1, 2011. She was number 2189. She had to run 26.2 miles. She was in area B. I think her medal is cool." -Alex</div><br /><div>"It is cool that you have a medl. She ran 26.2 mile she has to practice a lot. Her name was 2189. It is cool. And she ran in the rain. She had to put on a trash bag." -Cornelious</div><p>"The medal is so soft that is is the right size for miss brown. She was a good finisher. I'm so proud that Miss. brown has wond the finel marathon and miss brown say it was fun when she steped in puddles and weared a trash bag over her body." - Jaden</p><p>"But keep on going because I know you are going to win." -Nick</p><p>"I can't beleve mis Brown ran a marathon. It is cool how mis Brown got to keep the medal and the tag. It is so cool. I wonder what if felled like to run in it." -Alexis</p><p>"I want a lots of medals and trophies. I'll do any thing to win a medal or trophie." - Braylin</p><p>"It is cool when Mrs. Brown ran the marathon because she is the best teacher in the whole wide world. And she train hard and hard to go on the marathon." - Eric<br /><br />Oh the thoughts that 3rd graders have about the experience! It makes me smile!<br /><br /></p><div style="text-align: left;">You may remember some talk about links going around the room and distance being tracked on the map through this process. The students enjoyed adding shoes everyday and calculating miles. The also liked seeing just how far we could go on a map. Here was the end result:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J-Rfof7Kolg/TcHlp8hJisI/AAAAAAAAAFI/vg-Hm2tstKw/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J-Rfof7Kolg/TcHlp8hJisI/AAAAAAAAAFI/vg-Hm2tstKw/s320/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603011920208169666" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4gWWeO-15d0/TcHlqO537LI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/-yvUdwiFfy4/s1600/001%2B%25282%2529.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4gWWeO-15d0/TcHlqO537LI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/-yvUdwiFfy4/s320/001%2B%25282%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603011925143710898" border="0" /></a><br />It was so funny to me how the students saw the progress each day, yet when those last 26 miles where added to the links they were so amazed! The ohhs and awws began flying through the room. Students proudly told other teachers in the hallway, "She ran a grand total of 352 miles in training!" The kids also thought it was pretty neat that we made it across Oklahoma with just about 7 miles extra to begin heading to Texas. "Can we go all the way to Mexico?" they asked. I had a brilliant revelation after the fact that I could have added some Oklahoma history/social studies into the process by talking about each town we went to. I was quite sad I overlooked that detail, instead I was focused on getting the students to understand the distance. Now I know for next time! But all in all the students participated and were thrilled with it all!<br /><br />Check back tomorrow for a special message from the students!<br /></div></div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-70184326881202916952011-05-04T18:20:00.005-05:002011-05-04T18:58:49.710-05:00Pictures of the Big Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bhUc_NWHpwo/TcHgry_dAzI/AAAAAAAAAE4/KNjI00KJnmU/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bhUc_NWHpwo/TcHgry_dAzI/AAAAAAAAAE4/KNjI00KJnmU/s320/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603006454452519730" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Early morning before the race, but I am ready!<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b5K350wNP7M/TcHf-7SWVYI/AAAAAAAAAEw/o1bmDftCcts/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b5K350wNP7M/TcHf-7SWVYI/AAAAAAAAAEw/o1bmDftCcts/s320/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603005683585144194" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Some point during the race.<br />I was still feeling good and being silly.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IVOVoVUWsq4/TcHf-tHUbJI/AAAAAAAAAEo/YyHTEQLPsEk/s1600/226192_2074047731044_1240466597_32538949_1515335_n.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IVOVoVUWsq4/TcHf-tHUbJI/AAAAAAAAAEo/YyHTEQLPsEk/s320/226192_2074047731044_1240466597_32538949_1515335_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603005679780785298" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Running in the last few strides of the race.<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-znCzyxBhAZA/TcHf9yQAXHI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/q59XVb4B5rQ/s1600/225927_2074049331084_1240466597_32538956_7948605_n.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-znCzyxBhAZA/TcHf9yQAXHI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/q59XVb4B5rQ/s320/225927_2074049331084_1240466597_32538956_7948605_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603005663979527282" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Gun time of 3:59:04. Chip time of 3:58:04.<br />I made it under four hours!<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nxHZDI7ouEo/TcHf-RwoO0I/AAAAAAAAAEg/0VoN_5X_mRc/s1600/229242_2074052331159_1240466597_32538965_7057258_n.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nxHZDI7ouEo/TcHf-RwoO0I/AAAAAAAAAEg/0VoN_5X_mRc/s320/229242_2074052331159_1240466597_32538965_7057258_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603005672437857090" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Trying to get warm!<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aA8A8QPIRmw/TcHf9y5gWXI/AAAAAAAAAEY/LCg2smeCyGo/s1600/226012_2074054571215_1240466597_32538971_6565847_n.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aA8A8QPIRmw/TcHf9y5gWXI/AAAAAAAAAEY/LCg2smeCyGo/s320/226012_2074054571215_1240466597_32538971_6565847_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603005664153590130" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Taking my first step after standing a few moments.<br />As you can tell it was a little painful.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1A3uHYQT8uM/TcHfiO6JC4I/AAAAAAAAAEI/6wU2fWweXSQ/s1600/229102_2074055011226_1240466597_32538972_1524156_n.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1A3uHYQT8uM/TcHfiO6JC4I/AAAAAAAAAEI/6wU2fWweXSQ/s320/229102_2074055011226_1240466597_32538972_1524156_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603005190636112770" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Drinking me some chocolate milk!<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r24JWXKMEXE/TcHfh4mqnnI/AAAAAAAAAEA/lhCJtDGL_-E/s1600/018.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 239px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r24JWXKMEXE/TcHfh4mqnnI/AAAAAAAAAEA/lhCJtDGL_-E/s320/018.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603005184648846962" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">With my finishers shirt and medal!<br /><br />I DID IT!!!<br /></div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7131708748639748667.post-46356307479513265712011-05-03T14:29:00.004-05:002011-05-03T20:30:41.913-05:00Enduring My First Marathon (Part 2)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dHdOejAKQgQ/TcCr8zWDreI/AAAAAAAAADo/YwIa-WYrCGk/s1600/226387_2074055291233_1240466597_32538973_892603_n.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dHdOejAKQgQ/TcCr8zWDreI/AAAAAAAAADo/YwIa-WYrCGk/s320/226387_2074055291233_1240466597_32538973_892603_n.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602666997512121826" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I left you hanging in <a href="http://enduranceforeducation.blogspot.com/2011/05/enduring-my-first-marathon-part-1.html">"Enduring My First Marathon (Part 1)"</a> post at mile 13...<br /><br />I come around a corner and down a hill to see Hefner Lake. For some reason I had a big feeling of relief. At that moment I thought it was because I was looking forward to the change of scenery. However, I soon realized it was because I visualized the course map in my head and realized it was actually the half way point! I could then see the 14 mile marker when the wind began to pick up. I keep putting one foot in front of the other to make it to the turn around. All I had to do is make it to the turn around and the wind would be against my back. The things you look forward to as you run a marathon!</div><br /><div></div><div>I turn the corner and I begin to feel my glutes getting tight. I think to myself, "It is too early for this." By now the arch in my left foot had already been hurting for several miles. I make my way towards the water stop provided by the OKC airport where they are offering peanuts. After chuckling to myself I pass them by. What seems like moments later my legs are becoming tingly and numb from the wind coming from the back side. My thought then goes to, "Well at least I can't feel my glutes anymore!....Too bad the freezing puddle in my shoe hasn't numbed my foot!"</div><br /><div></div>From mile 14 to 22 again I don't remember much. I knew my legs were starting to get tired, but not awful feeling. I remember Ryan saying that if my legs start feeling bad to get an orange. I look for oranges at a few stops, but none to be found. I resort to bananas. I know I had seen bananas. The next two stops had no bananas. I finally get a banana and swish it down with water. I must say that banana water isn't that tasty.<br /><br /><div></div><div>Ryan meets up with me again at mile 22. He asks how I am feeling and I say pretty okay, but I will be ready to be done in 4 miles! I feel wonderful compared to my <a href="http://enduranceforeducation.blogspot.com/2011/04/enduring-through-22-miles.html">22 mile training run</a>! So that is great news. During my training I just didn't understand how I could make it another 4.2 miles after feeling so bad after 22. But on race day it never crossed my mind. When Ryan asked how I was feeling I knew I was feeling well enough to make it that last stint. After checking my time I knew as long as I kept 9:00 minute pace I would finish under 4 hours. </div><br /><div></div><div>Ryan left me with the words, "If you have anything left now is the time to start pushing." Or something along those lines. I know for a fact he said, "if you have anything left." I gradually start to push thinking, "Oh, I have something left!". A muscles above my knee cap begins to get tight and feels as if it could cramp at any moment. I know that I can not afford a cramp right now. My legs are getting tighter and it is harder and harder for me to push them forward. I realize I am starting to slow down. I tell myself I have made it this far and if I just keep pushing I will make it by four hours. I almost felt as if I didn't push and came in over four hours it would make this all obsolete because I knew I could still give it some more. I would not allow myself to slow done. I continue to push. </div><br /><div></div><div>I hear an announcer and get excited because I know I am getting close. Although I had not seen a mile 23 sign I knew I had to be getting close. I round a corner to see a mile 24 sign and an announcer realizing I missed the 23 mile marker. I pass the announcer and continue on and quickly hit a patch of silence. I think to myself that was like a mean joke! However it did push me. Only two miles! Piece of cake. I hit mile 25 and I no longer feel my legs. Others around me are gritting their teeth so they can push. I tell myself to do the same. I imagine my mom and Ryan watching the clock at the finish knowing I should be there any minute.</div><br /><div></div><div>Wanting to make sure I get a good finish line picture I rip off the trash bag and throw it to the side (I wont lie I kind of felt like superman! Not only for ripping it off, but also because I was doing it while closing in on the finish line of my first marathon!) along with taking my gloves off. I decide I did that move a little too early as I felt frozen to the core in about one minute. Shortly though I see the finish line banner. I push. I am almost there! The clock comes into sight which says 3:57 and some change. I quickly think, "Keep pushing! It could still take you a minute and a half to get there!" So I push more. I am getting close as the clock rolls over to 3:59. That is when I give it my last final push throwing up my arms! </div><br /><div></div><div>As soon as I cross the finish line my steps are small and weak. A volunteer asks if I am okay and I say yes. Then, I hear: "You did it baby!" in my mom's voice. Mom and Ryan are there at the fence line. I knew with the clock rolling over to 3:59 as I went under that should give me chip time close to 3 hours and 58 minutes. I high five Ryan and say not only did I get under four hour chip time, but also four hour gun time! </div><br /><div></div><div>The emergency blanket is now rapped around me and I begin to walk or better said: waddle. I get my medal and head for the food tent. I wasn't really hungry, but knew I needed something. I grab a slice of bagel and take a bite. Yum! It was so good! Then, I see a fig newton. I take a bite of that. I toss the rest of the bagel in the trash as I decide the fig newton is much better. Continuing down the food line I get some cookies, rice crispy treat, milk and a hamburger. </div><br /><div></div><div>Luckily my mom was parked close by as it was still raining and I was freezing. Sadly it was four blocks away and I felt like I was going to die on the way there. I was so cold that I was shaking so bad. The wind was chilling me to my bone. Each curb that I came to felt like I had to climb a mountain. My legs were so sore! I grunted and moaned the whole four blocks. Once we arrived to the parking lot I had to step up what was about a foot. You can imagine if a normal curb felt that bad what a foot high curb felt like. I literally lifted my leg up with my hand and received a boost from the back side so that I could make it. I got in the car, got dry clothes on, warmed up and ate every single item I choose out of the food tent!</div><br /><div></div><div>All in all the day was AMAZING! It all came together! I felt wonderful the whole way through. Yes, it is odd to say that after saying I couldn't feel my hands and legs, I felt as if I would cramp any moment and that I felt like I was going to die on the way to the car. But honestly I felt great the whole race. At no moment did I think, "I'm not going to make it." or "I am never doing this again." I seemed to focus entirely on the race. It was as if I was making every move so that I could endure through the whole race. Getting gloves, falling in behind people to block the wind, pumping my arms up the hills, paying attention to my hydration, seeking a banana, and cutting the course. It all was to make it to the end by four hours. I had worked 16 weeks to this point and now the last step was to cross that line before 4:00:00 hit the clock! And that I did!<br /><br />Pictures and the students' perspective on the whole thing coming soon!<br /></div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04353266392073867175noreply@blogger.com0