Greetings one and all again to a new blog by yours truely, the mad runner and I hope you all had a great Christmas and surrounded by all of your loved ones.
As the year, 2011 is about the end and the upcoming 2012 is approaching, I find myself ready for what is to come and what I will endure. Whatever it may be, it will sure be a test of what I am capable of.....providing hope and courage to many and hopefully inspire many to do the same.
Do I have a New Years Resolution? My only resolution is do my best for everyone and help provide many smiles to those who need it. My resolution is for everyone and not myself.
My Christmas present is always the same of the past few years, my family and friends. I do not ask for that much and this year, all I wanted was strength provided in me to face my upcoming challenge. I do not have any doubt in myself and my ability, I just want the strength to make it through the rough times and I rely on my faith to be my strength.
With the upcoming training for the races approaching in just a few days, I look at what I have to do to get ready and some say that I have 4 months to get ready and that is plenty of time but not with what I need to do. I am looking to run the half marathon in 2 hours or better. And after doing a lot of calculations and looking at new things to try, I will be in the best shape I have ever been in.
Looking at the new workouts, I will be introducing some new cardio for core strength and then working on endurance and of course, toning up with the weights and med ball routine. But with the new workouts, I am leaning towards a new diet and then doing yoga, pilates and other conditioning workouts.
Will this hurt? You bet but I look forward to it because like they always say, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." And I am looking to head this new routine head on and willing to put in much work to get better.
And to some, I appreciate your kind words, thoughts and prayers for everything. My words cannot express how much motivation I have been receiving on behalf of all of you.
And to some who are tuning in, I have started a fan page on facebook, the page will update many on what will be going on, just in case the news feed changes like a drop of a hat but tune in and be a part of the Team Heart Militia brigade. Like the team on facebook and hopefully, I will hear from you all.
P.S. I did run a total of 13.5 miles on Christmas Eve and Christmas day, feeling stronger and I am happy! Even with my awesome red running tights. Picture to come soon.
Monday, December 26, 2011
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
A confession
Greetings one and all again to a new blog installment from the mad runner and I hope you all are doing well and with Christmas and New Years just right around the corner, I wish you all a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Years and safe travels to many who are venturing out to many destinations.
This new blog is going to take you into a perspective and questions that has been brought to my attention for the past few months and I feel like it has to be addressed and it is a subject that I have been a personal attacks by many I assumed were good friends in the running industry.
Growing up and listening to old war stories of my biological father making his destiny of going to the Olympic games in 1984 and about how great he was. And to all runners who start out always would think that one day, I will make it to the Olympics and it's a dream some have taken and try to make it a reality. Was it mine? Of course and I worked hard during the last round to make it as far as I could and did I fail? Yes. I am not ashamed to say that I took a shot and didn't get it because I knew I wasn't ready for that life or that achievement. And after that, I battled through my own demons and like many, that dream felt like a nightmare because of what it is and what it isn't.
For awhile, I felt like I let everyone down, my family, friends, and most of all, my tribal nation and it took me awhile to accept that I failed big time but a wise man once told me that, "if you fall, fall hard and get back up because you have to sink to an absolute low before things start looking up." My mental and spiritual game was back in and wanted to get back into running and find myself again because when you are set out on a goal that to some, seem impossible, but to you....it is more than just a passion. I got back into running for the main reason why I got into it, for the pure joy of it, not money, gold medals, sponsorships, and the spotlight. Running has never been that to me because to me, it was a way of life, an addiction because when it came from running 3 miles to 15 miles a day and averaging 30-60 miles a week, you are amazed on how far you can push yourself.
Back in October of this year, I was approached by a good friend I met years ago when he was training for a spot on the Olympic team back in 2008 and he called me out of the blue because he found my contact info, and he wanted to see what I was up to and I told him about the half marathon and others races and he said, "I was worried that old age would've put you in retirement." After an hour of joking and catching up, he told me that his main purpose was the call was to offer me a spot at the USATF (United States Track and Field) organization is hosting a masters outdoor track and field event in Bloomington, Indiana in May of 2012 and he said if I ran the race (800 meters) and placed in the top 5, I would have earned my spot to the Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon and see how I do from there.
After we talked, it was the constant thought in my head....the shot to relive my dream, again. But at what cost? And after a month, it was a distant thought in my head because I was focusing my time and energy on my charities I am running for and that was my main concern.
A week ago, I got a phone call from him again and he told me he didn't want to rush me but he needed to know before we draw up the paperwork, get a physical and make an appearance with the boys in Beaverton, Oregon but I told him I had to respectfully decline the offer because it is not that I am honored to be asked to do it again but I have a good thing going for me and if I was to take on this HUGE opportunity, I would have to drop many races scheduled for the charities and I would've turned my back on those who need me. I made a promise to them and I am not going back on it.
And since I made my decision, I have told some of my running buddies stationed over many parts of the states, they are quite upset with me because they have said, "You do not turn down an offer like this. You are an idiot. You must be wrong in the head. You mean well with what you are doing but you cannot turn down this offer. You are not making any money doing these races, the money is the other path." And I got so freaking tired of the hate I was receiving because it has NOTHING to do with the money or the fame. It has to do with standing up for many and to stand beside them when times are tough and for every smile and everything that makes them feel better and if what I am doing helps them, it is worth any gold medals I would ever try to work for.
I will tell you this, I have no regrets in my actions because this is where I belong and I will stand my ground because it is what I believe in and there is no way in hell that I am quitting. And to those who still hate on me, I hope one day you will understand why I did this. And to those who are still standing next to me, I thank you.
I hope this blog will make you understand what I go through on somewhat a daily basis and the battles I endure but my sacrifices and everything I go through is worth it, down to the last drop of sweat and last ounce of energy. I have my beliefs and I respect them and I hope you do the same too. And if people start to hate on you or your beliefs, remember this, I would rather be hated on for something that I am rather than being loved for something that I am not.
This new blog is going to take you into a perspective and questions that has been brought to my attention for the past few months and I feel like it has to be addressed and it is a subject that I have been a personal attacks by many I assumed were good friends in the running industry.
Growing up and listening to old war stories of my biological father making his destiny of going to the Olympic games in 1984 and about how great he was. And to all runners who start out always would think that one day, I will make it to the Olympics and it's a dream some have taken and try to make it a reality. Was it mine? Of course and I worked hard during the last round to make it as far as I could and did I fail? Yes. I am not ashamed to say that I took a shot and didn't get it because I knew I wasn't ready for that life or that achievement. And after that, I battled through my own demons and like many, that dream felt like a nightmare because of what it is and what it isn't.
For awhile, I felt like I let everyone down, my family, friends, and most of all, my tribal nation and it took me awhile to accept that I failed big time but a wise man once told me that, "if you fall, fall hard and get back up because you have to sink to an absolute low before things start looking up." My mental and spiritual game was back in and wanted to get back into running and find myself again because when you are set out on a goal that to some, seem impossible, but to you....it is more than just a passion. I got back into running for the main reason why I got into it, for the pure joy of it, not money, gold medals, sponsorships, and the spotlight. Running has never been that to me because to me, it was a way of life, an addiction because when it came from running 3 miles to 15 miles a day and averaging 30-60 miles a week, you are amazed on how far you can push yourself.
Back in October of this year, I was approached by a good friend I met years ago when he was training for a spot on the Olympic team back in 2008 and he called me out of the blue because he found my contact info, and he wanted to see what I was up to and I told him about the half marathon and others races and he said, "I was worried that old age would've put you in retirement." After an hour of joking and catching up, he told me that his main purpose was the call was to offer me a spot at the USATF (United States Track and Field) organization is hosting a masters outdoor track and field event in Bloomington, Indiana in May of 2012 and he said if I ran the race (800 meters) and placed in the top 5, I would have earned my spot to the Olympic Trials in Eugene, Oregon and see how I do from there.
After we talked, it was the constant thought in my head....the shot to relive my dream, again. But at what cost? And after a month, it was a distant thought in my head because I was focusing my time and energy on my charities I am running for and that was my main concern.
A week ago, I got a phone call from him again and he told me he didn't want to rush me but he needed to know before we draw up the paperwork, get a physical and make an appearance with the boys in Beaverton, Oregon but I told him I had to respectfully decline the offer because it is not that I am honored to be asked to do it again but I have a good thing going for me and if I was to take on this HUGE opportunity, I would have to drop many races scheduled for the charities and I would've turned my back on those who need me. I made a promise to them and I am not going back on it.
And since I made my decision, I have told some of my running buddies stationed over many parts of the states, they are quite upset with me because they have said, "You do not turn down an offer like this. You are an idiot. You must be wrong in the head. You mean well with what you are doing but you cannot turn down this offer. You are not making any money doing these races, the money is the other path." And I got so freaking tired of the hate I was receiving because it has NOTHING to do with the money or the fame. It has to do with standing up for many and to stand beside them when times are tough and for every smile and everything that makes them feel better and if what I am doing helps them, it is worth any gold medals I would ever try to work for.
I will tell you this, I have no regrets in my actions because this is where I belong and I will stand my ground because it is what I believe in and there is no way in hell that I am quitting. And to those who still hate on me, I hope one day you will understand why I did this. And to those who are still standing next to me, I thank you.
I hope this blog will make you understand what I go through on somewhat a daily basis and the battles I endure but my sacrifices and everything I go through is worth it, down to the last drop of sweat and last ounce of energy. I have my beliefs and I respect them and I hope you do the same too. And if people start to hate on you or your beliefs, remember this, I would rather be hated on for something that I am rather than being loved for something that I am not.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Thank you
Greetings one and all, and welcome to another installment of the blog of this mad runner. And I trust you all had a great weekend.
What can I say about my weekend? Well, I started up jogging after the dreaded stomach virus I've had from last week. Still a bit woozy but I felt fine jogging both Friday and yesterday. I went for a good 20 minutes both days and was proud to know that I felt good after every day. Still monitoring my health and start making that climb back to 40-50 miles a week. No hurry on my end though, I've got nothing but time......well, until the mid January as I go back into the half marathon training routine.
This new installment for my blog is something I believe is overdue and I hope that to those this is dedicated to can understand the emotion behind my passion for running. This blog is about thanking those who got me this far.
To my dear mother, you have always been my fan, supporter and most of all, my best friend. Even when my days growing up was tough without a father who stayed, you were the person I looked up to and seen something that I've always wanted to be, a fighter. To be a person who took on her children and made them great in their own ways, I thank you for everything you are and will always be, a part of me. I love you.
To my grandmother, you are the glue that holds this family together because without you, there wouldn't be a family. You were married to a great man who to this day, I still admire because of his life, love and legacy, us. Having you as a grandmother made me as a child growing up, understand what means the world to everyone, their culture and you brought that out of me in more ways than I could imagined. I can't wait to see you and hear you laugh again.
To my sisters and my baby brother, you guys are the best I could ever ask for in this world and the next because we've had some great times together and what amazes me is that we've always had a great connection. You all are the engine that drives me today when I am at my lowest. I miss you all and await to see you all again.
To my uncles, aunts and cousins, growing up with you all made a childhood seem like an amusement park, everything just exciting and fun. Along the way, it was more than just blood between us all, it was our interaction, that some of my cousins felt like brothers and sisters and I couldn't ask for anything more.
To my teachers and coaches, thank you all for believing in me and helping me persue life in a different aspect than I'd imagined at the time. With your faith in me in my knowledge, gifts and achievements, you helped me get through the school years with such fun and beliefs.
To my adopted family, thank you deeply for taking me in as a friend first and being considered as family has made me a better man because of the love you have shared with me. You all are my inspiration and I thank God for people like you, to accept me as I am and never giving up on me. Words cannot express my gratitude for you all!
To my awesome friends here in Washburn, Bismarck, Minot, Fargo, Grand Forks, all over North Dakota, South Dakota and overseas, thank you for taking this history nerd and for being such awesome people. Even with your busy lives, you still take time out to talk with me or share some great laughs with. To the many more good times in store for us all!
To my fellow supporters or "roadies" as I call them, thank you so much for your kind words, your emails, text messages. Without you, I wouldn't be where I am at this moment. You make me appreciate having supporters all over the states and countries too! Even when I feel like I am at my worst, you are always there to bring me back up and when I run, I always feel you around me. And please forgive me, I am not so used to having many who cheer me on or having a support base of those who are fans. Thank you for believing in me, it means the world to me and if I could just make you proud of what I do, I will do my absolute best!
To my critics, yes, you. Thank you for always saying what is on your mind and it helps me for motivation when I run because I know that the next day, it will give you something to write about. Your negativity does bring out the best in me because it goes to show you, everyone is not perfect and you don't even have to know me to like me but that is your own opinion and I respect it.
And finally, thanks to God because without accepting both God and Jesus into my life, I would have no purpose on this Earth but with both in my corner, I am invincible. My faith is the strongest part of myself, nothing can ever break it.
And to those who are reading this in other countries, I say thank you, in your language and forgive me if I am not fluent.
Gracias
спасибо
Terima kasih
Danke
ขอบคุณ
obrigado
Just a complete thank you to you all! And thank you again for tuning into this new installment and I wish you all a great day and be warned, training pics are what is to come in the next few weeks.
What can I say about my weekend? Well, I started up jogging after the dreaded stomach virus I've had from last week. Still a bit woozy but I felt fine jogging both Friday and yesterday. I went for a good 20 minutes both days and was proud to know that I felt good after every day. Still monitoring my health and start making that climb back to 40-50 miles a week. No hurry on my end though, I've got nothing but time......well, until the mid January as I go back into the half marathon training routine.
This new installment for my blog is something I believe is overdue and I hope that to those this is dedicated to can understand the emotion behind my passion for running. This blog is about thanking those who got me this far.
To my dear mother, you have always been my fan, supporter and most of all, my best friend. Even when my days growing up was tough without a father who stayed, you were the person I looked up to and seen something that I've always wanted to be, a fighter. To be a person who took on her children and made them great in their own ways, I thank you for everything you are and will always be, a part of me. I love you.
To my grandmother, you are the glue that holds this family together because without you, there wouldn't be a family. You were married to a great man who to this day, I still admire because of his life, love and legacy, us. Having you as a grandmother made me as a child growing up, understand what means the world to everyone, their culture and you brought that out of me in more ways than I could imagined. I can't wait to see you and hear you laugh again.
To my sisters and my baby brother, you guys are the best I could ever ask for in this world and the next because we've had some great times together and what amazes me is that we've always had a great connection. You all are the engine that drives me today when I am at my lowest. I miss you all and await to see you all again.
To my uncles, aunts and cousins, growing up with you all made a childhood seem like an amusement park, everything just exciting and fun. Along the way, it was more than just blood between us all, it was our interaction, that some of my cousins felt like brothers and sisters and I couldn't ask for anything more.
To my teachers and coaches, thank you all for believing in me and helping me persue life in a different aspect than I'd imagined at the time. With your faith in me in my knowledge, gifts and achievements, you helped me get through the school years with such fun and beliefs.
To my adopted family, thank you deeply for taking me in as a friend first and being considered as family has made me a better man because of the love you have shared with me. You all are my inspiration and I thank God for people like you, to accept me as I am and never giving up on me. Words cannot express my gratitude for you all!
To my awesome friends here in Washburn, Bismarck, Minot, Fargo, Grand Forks, all over North Dakota, South Dakota and overseas, thank you for taking this history nerd and for being such awesome people. Even with your busy lives, you still take time out to talk with me or share some great laughs with. To the many more good times in store for us all!
To my fellow supporters or "roadies" as I call them, thank you so much for your kind words, your emails, text messages. Without you, I wouldn't be where I am at this moment. You make me appreciate having supporters all over the states and countries too! Even when I feel like I am at my worst, you are always there to bring me back up and when I run, I always feel you around me. And please forgive me, I am not so used to having many who cheer me on or having a support base of those who are fans. Thank you for believing in me, it means the world to me and if I could just make you proud of what I do, I will do my absolute best!
To my critics, yes, you. Thank you for always saying what is on your mind and it helps me for motivation when I run because I know that the next day, it will give you something to write about. Your negativity does bring out the best in me because it goes to show you, everyone is not perfect and you don't even have to know me to like me but that is your own opinion and I respect it.
And finally, thanks to God because without accepting both God and Jesus into my life, I would have no purpose on this Earth but with both in my corner, I am invincible. My faith is the strongest part of myself, nothing can ever break it.
And to those who are reading this in other countries, I say thank you, in your language and forgive me if I am not fluent.
Gracias
спасибо
Terima kasih
Danke
ขอบคุณ
obrigado
Just a complete thank you to you all! And thank you again for tuning into this new installment and I wish you all a great day and be warned, training pics are what is to come in the next few weeks.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Having a mohawk is awesome!!
You know the old cliche, a good haircut will open doors for you? Well, I never believed it beacuse I think I've had one too many haircuts and not many doors were being opened. But alas, a mohawk has opened a door for me and to think, my own mother was against me having a mohawk. Heh, goes to show her right?
Sometimes, what mother knows best doesn't quite suit the haircut situation. Well, for me in that sense. Even though everything else is correct on what a mother knows best, life and love.
Growing up, I've always had spikey hair that looked like a ficus plant or an anime character on television but that was my style and I always got used to it. I've even had slick back hair and yes, even dyed hair, blonde, red and orange (being young and stupid). Now that I am older and wiser, I still want to try other things! And no, nothing too drastic like dreadlocks or an afro (maybe).
As a runner, you're not always known for having a sense of style because you just wear what is comfortable and what is you. Those who are too flashy with their shoes do stand out more but not always in a good sense but at times, us runners do wear something crazy because we like to have fun. I have seen runners wear running skirts, different types of tights, socks, and of course, for everyone, hairstyles.
For me, I always had shorter style hair now, which means, a buzzcut style. I've had the shorter hair because I sweat a lot and this was easier to manage and as of late, I grew the mohawk for fun, for the kids here in the town I live in. And what started out as fun has grown into something bigger than I have expected,
When I am not running, I do get some weird looks from many about my haircut and to me, I am always thinking that they are thinking I am a weird person or rebellious, I just laugh and smile because shows what they know! But there are times where little kids smile at me and giggle and ask me about it, if it is real or what my mother thinks about it. I laugh and smile and always tell them that my mother thinks it is just as great as I am.
I did have to laugh and smile that a few weeks ago, I went for a run and some kids went by me and asked me for my autograph because I was known as the guy who runs a lot and has a cool mohawk. I felt like an instant celebrity, all because of my mohawk. And for awhile in this town, I was known as the guy who runs a lot and hence my new Indian nickname, Jeff Runs A Lot. Now, I am known as the guy who runs a lot with an awesome mohawk.
For the past 2 months of growing it out, it has been fun to play around with the mohawk, others enjoy it and saying that this hairstyle suits me well, I have become attached to it and to tell you the truth, I was almost considering shaving it off because my racing season was over until April but I've had a lot of people just say, "Keep it. Don't shave it." It has become my trademark and I feel proud to have it.
I even got a person who is into making skull caps or beanies for winter time and thought of a great idea with myself, to make a beanie cap, for mohawks! That there will be an opening for mohawks to show on through. That people can still see your mohawk and still have your ears and the rest of your head protected from the colder temperatures. It was a fun idea and I cannot wait to see what he comes up with.
Here is the progress of having a mohawk for the past 2 months. Or as the kids call it, Hawkness. I was planning on growing the sides out for a bit but having a photo shoot here in town, I was asked to shave off the sides for more of the mohawk effect. Quite funny actually.
This blog is not encouraging many to have a mohawk, find your own hairstyle and be yourself. You will be shocked on how much people have admire both your hairstyle and you.
And for those who actually have mohawks, I do highly recommend this hair gel. Got 2b, it feels like hair gel but it holds like glue and I found it at Walmart for almost 5 bucks.
Sometimes, what mother knows best doesn't quite suit the haircut situation. Well, for me in that sense. Even though everything else is correct on what a mother knows best, life and love.
Growing up, I've always had spikey hair that looked like a ficus plant or an anime character on television but that was my style and I always got used to it. I've even had slick back hair and yes, even dyed hair, blonde, red and orange (being young and stupid). Now that I am older and wiser, I still want to try other things! And no, nothing too drastic like dreadlocks or an afro (maybe).
As a runner, you're not always known for having a sense of style because you just wear what is comfortable and what is you. Those who are too flashy with their shoes do stand out more but not always in a good sense but at times, us runners do wear something crazy because we like to have fun. I have seen runners wear running skirts, different types of tights, socks, and of course, for everyone, hairstyles.
For me, I always had shorter style hair now, which means, a buzzcut style. I've had the shorter hair because I sweat a lot and this was easier to manage and as of late, I grew the mohawk for fun, for the kids here in the town I live in. And what started out as fun has grown into something bigger than I have expected,
When I am not running, I do get some weird looks from many about my haircut and to me, I am always thinking that they are thinking I am a weird person or rebellious, I just laugh and smile because shows what they know! But there are times where little kids smile at me and giggle and ask me about it, if it is real or what my mother thinks about it. I laugh and smile and always tell them that my mother thinks it is just as great as I am.
I did have to laugh and smile that a few weeks ago, I went for a run and some kids went by me and asked me for my autograph because I was known as the guy who runs a lot and has a cool mohawk. I felt like an instant celebrity, all because of my mohawk. And for awhile in this town, I was known as the guy who runs a lot and hence my new Indian nickname, Jeff Runs A Lot. Now, I am known as the guy who runs a lot with an awesome mohawk.
For the past 2 months of growing it out, it has been fun to play around with the mohawk, others enjoy it and saying that this hairstyle suits me well, I have become attached to it and to tell you the truth, I was almost considering shaving it off because my racing season was over until April but I've had a lot of people just say, "Keep it. Don't shave it." It has become my trademark and I feel proud to have it.
I even got a person who is into making skull caps or beanies for winter time and thought of a great idea with myself, to make a beanie cap, for mohawks! That there will be an opening for mohawks to show on through. That people can still see your mohawk and still have your ears and the rest of your head protected from the colder temperatures. It was a fun idea and I cannot wait to see what he comes up with.
This blog is not encouraging many to have a mohawk, find your own hairstyle and be yourself. You will be shocked on how much people have admire both your hairstyle and you.
And for those who actually have mohawks, I do highly recommend this hair gel. Got 2b, it feels like hair gel but it holds like glue and I found it at Walmart for almost 5 bucks.
Thanks again for tuning in for another blog by the mad runner. I hope this has provided some entertainment for you all. Until we meet again, find your finish line and finish strong!
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
My fears and healing up
Greetings to all and once again, welcome to another informative blog about a mad runner who now has a diary? When I came up with the title for my blog, I guess I didn't think it over clearly because men do not keep diaries, they keep journals. It makes me sound like a 16 year old who keeps secrets from my parents but that is not the case whatsoever.
With a stream of new emails and comments on those emails from those who have been supportive, I thank you again for sending me stories, links, and informative news. One question that I have received from time and time again is, "Do you fear anything?" And to answer that truthfully, yes, I do.
I do feel fear like everyone does, I mean, I am human. I think that fear is more than just a feeling, to me, it is something that pushes me, almost like a force of energy. But growing up, fear is what plagued me at times. So, to those just tuning in, this is a personal part of me that I will rarely talk about it.
Growing up, I had a lot of fear because living on the reservation, you often become full of fear because of what you experienced from year to year. I would often fear that I would become an alcoholic, a drug user/dealer, or even when I got into my early 20's is that I would be stuck there for the rest of my life. I mean, the reservation is my home and I love my home because my family are there but I always knew I had potential to become somebody. Even in my high school yearbook, I was nominated and won, "Most Likely To Succeed" and to live up to other expectations became my drive and my fear. My fear was to fail and end up back on the reservation for many to say, "He failed, like we expected him to."
That hung above my head like an unwanted halo because of the pressure. And from then on, I started to work a lot and harder. To make sure my foundation was strong and nothing could ever take away my dream. But as I grew older and wiser, I let go of that fear because if I had fail, I wouldn't end up back on the reservation, that I would find a way to make it work the second, third or how many tries I took. My risks that I took were my own, not anyone else's.
Another fear that plagued me a lot was that I would end up like my biological father, he is a good man, no disrespect but growing up, a lot of people would always tell me that I would end up like him. In their eyes, they seen him as great talent and potential wasted. In high school, I would always tell myself, "You will not end up like your father, you are going to be something greater." During hard times, my internal words got me through.
I learned that once you let go of your fears, you are more happier and willing to push past limits no one ever thought you could take. And to some who expected you to fail, when you prove them wrong, no amount of money can ever be enough for that priceless moment. I've had a few of those moments and very proud to say that any expectations that anyone had to put on me were at times, pressure but they are what everyone has, opinions. To me, opinions are like dreams, everyone has one from time to time.
My recent fear? My health. Through the years of wear and tear and being young and careless, my muscles are not like they used to be. When I ran, I would often run when I was injured or sick and all I wanted to do was prove that nothing could ever stop me and at times today, I still feel that way. But with my neck and shoulder issues, it is not the case much anymore. But something odd has happened and I do hope it keeps progressing better was my legs. My family has the case of bad knees and I've had one knee go wrong but lately, I can still run hard on it and very lucky.
With my recent sickness that took a lot out of me, my health became my fear again and being how it was my chest that was hurting more. And having my best friend pass away from a heart attack because of his heart, I got scared because with the doctors monitoring my heart murmur, to make sure I do not have any complications that lead up to heart disease, it gets scary at times.
As of recent, I have been getting emails from many that show in detail of those runners who ran half marathons and full marathons who have passed away during a race because their heart couldn't take much more. I guess that hit me hard because it is a race that I am looking to do, 6 times in 2012.
I know, as a man who has a lot to do, I shouldn't have much fear but I try not to think much about it. But one fear is something everyone fears, the unknown.
I hope I did not go into too much detail there. Beyond my fear is my strength and my passion. My focus is there and knowing what I have to do, heal up, get healthy and stronger. April is approaching and I am excited, I miss running already. If you could contain my energy for how excited I get for my races, you could power 3 full cities for months. It is what drives me to my destiny.
And on a positive side, the article and photo shoot are done and here is a sneak peek in a picture form. The article will be in an electronic format that I will provide for you all.
Thank you all for reading the never ending blog of this mad runner.
With a stream of new emails and comments on those emails from those who have been supportive, I thank you again for sending me stories, links, and informative news. One question that I have received from time and time again is, "Do you fear anything?" And to answer that truthfully, yes, I do.
I do feel fear like everyone does, I mean, I am human. I think that fear is more than just a feeling, to me, it is something that pushes me, almost like a force of energy. But growing up, fear is what plagued me at times. So, to those just tuning in, this is a personal part of me that I will rarely talk about it.
Growing up, I had a lot of fear because living on the reservation, you often become full of fear because of what you experienced from year to year. I would often fear that I would become an alcoholic, a drug user/dealer, or even when I got into my early 20's is that I would be stuck there for the rest of my life. I mean, the reservation is my home and I love my home because my family are there but I always knew I had potential to become somebody. Even in my high school yearbook, I was nominated and won, "Most Likely To Succeed" and to live up to other expectations became my drive and my fear. My fear was to fail and end up back on the reservation for many to say, "He failed, like we expected him to."
That hung above my head like an unwanted halo because of the pressure. And from then on, I started to work a lot and harder. To make sure my foundation was strong and nothing could ever take away my dream. But as I grew older and wiser, I let go of that fear because if I had fail, I wouldn't end up back on the reservation, that I would find a way to make it work the second, third or how many tries I took. My risks that I took were my own, not anyone else's.
Another fear that plagued me a lot was that I would end up like my biological father, he is a good man, no disrespect but growing up, a lot of people would always tell me that I would end up like him. In their eyes, they seen him as great talent and potential wasted. In high school, I would always tell myself, "You will not end up like your father, you are going to be something greater." During hard times, my internal words got me through.
I learned that once you let go of your fears, you are more happier and willing to push past limits no one ever thought you could take. And to some who expected you to fail, when you prove them wrong, no amount of money can ever be enough for that priceless moment. I've had a few of those moments and very proud to say that any expectations that anyone had to put on me were at times, pressure but they are what everyone has, opinions. To me, opinions are like dreams, everyone has one from time to time.
My recent fear? My health. Through the years of wear and tear and being young and careless, my muscles are not like they used to be. When I ran, I would often run when I was injured or sick and all I wanted to do was prove that nothing could ever stop me and at times today, I still feel that way. But with my neck and shoulder issues, it is not the case much anymore. But something odd has happened and I do hope it keeps progressing better was my legs. My family has the case of bad knees and I've had one knee go wrong but lately, I can still run hard on it and very lucky.
With my recent sickness that took a lot out of me, my health became my fear again and being how it was my chest that was hurting more. And having my best friend pass away from a heart attack because of his heart, I got scared because with the doctors monitoring my heart murmur, to make sure I do not have any complications that lead up to heart disease, it gets scary at times.
As of recent, I have been getting emails from many that show in detail of those runners who ran half marathons and full marathons who have passed away during a race because their heart couldn't take much more. I guess that hit me hard because it is a race that I am looking to do, 6 times in 2012.
I know, as a man who has a lot to do, I shouldn't have much fear but I try not to think much about it. But one fear is something everyone fears, the unknown.
I hope I did not go into too much detail there. Beyond my fear is my strength and my passion. My focus is there and knowing what I have to do, heal up, get healthy and stronger. April is approaching and I am excited, I miss running already. If you could contain my energy for how excited I get for my races, you could power 3 full cities for months. It is what drives me to my destiny.
Thank you all for reading the never ending blog of this mad runner.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
I will be back
Greetings to all again, I apologize if it has been a few days since I have posted on this blog and I appreciate everyone who has read this never ending blog of mine.
What new has happen since the last time I had left you all? Well, ever since I ran the 5k in Fargo last week, I started to feel some pain in my chest that would not go away and it came to a point where I couldn't breathe or do much of anything. On this past Thursday evening, I spent all night trying to calm this pain down and nothing seemed to help but on Friday morning, I went into the clinic to get checked out and after waiting and getting back the results, they have found that I had a serious sinus infection that had a lot of congestion building up by my lungs that when I breathed, it started to put a lot of pressure on my chest and caused the chest pains. And another reason why I couldn't breathe too well was because of my exercise induced asthma, caused by allergies many years ago and with those factors and of course, stress relations, all 3 issues caused me to feel like crap.
I was actually quite relieved to have this interesting piece of news because I was expecting something worse but I am fortunate it wasn't too serious. But after getting my prescription filled for my new inhaler and antibiotics, I met up with a good friend of mine who is the local editor of the newspaper, the Leader News and he said he wanted to touch base with me for sometime because of my charity work that is upcoming in racing. So, he did an interview on me with the intention to take a picture of me running. The interview lasted about an hour and a half and when we finished, we all went to lunch and even just having soup, I couldn't eat and I started to feel some pain in my abdomen and in my lower back. As I got back to my apartment, I started to cramp up all over, getting chills, a fever of 101, and of course, caught a stomach virus that put me out of everything and then spent 15 hours in my bathroom with my sickness.
A day after the whole ordeal, I started to feel weak, weaker than I am used to and to tell you the truth, I was scared because I am so used to it but I knew that I couldn't stop. That I had to make sure I was healthy again. I kept myself hydrated with water, Gatorade and Sprite and ate nothing but crackers.
What amazed the fill in doctor was that I ran a 5k with a bad sinus infection and still able to pull a wonderful time. She called it irresponsible and I can admit that it was irresponsible of me to do that. I guess in a way, my pride got in the way of my health and that will never happen again.
To those who have been worried, I apologize and you need not to worry about me. I may live alone, but I know how to take care of myself in times like this. I can be strong when it is needed and the word "weak" doesn't mean I am less than nothing, I am human, I make mistakes, I learn and I fight. It is just a reminder that even at my worst, I can still do my best to be better. If that makes any sense.
As for now, I am on a small vacation, until I start to feel a lot better, I am relaxing my body and my mind. Although, tomorrow, I may have a photo shoot to deal with, I am not putting myself in much danger and for the upcoming article for the Leader News, I will post that article for all of you who are not here to see it.
Thank you all for your support and your constant emails, again, words cannot not compare to what I feel right now.
What new has happen since the last time I had left you all? Well, ever since I ran the 5k in Fargo last week, I started to feel some pain in my chest that would not go away and it came to a point where I couldn't breathe or do much of anything. On this past Thursday evening, I spent all night trying to calm this pain down and nothing seemed to help but on Friday morning, I went into the clinic to get checked out and after waiting and getting back the results, they have found that I had a serious sinus infection that had a lot of congestion building up by my lungs that when I breathed, it started to put a lot of pressure on my chest and caused the chest pains. And another reason why I couldn't breathe too well was because of my exercise induced asthma, caused by allergies many years ago and with those factors and of course, stress relations, all 3 issues caused me to feel like crap.
I was actually quite relieved to have this interesting piece of news because I was expecting something worse but I am fortunate it wasn't too serious. But after getting my prescription filled for my new inhaler and antibiotics, I met up with a good friend of mine who is the local editor of the newspaper, the Leader News and he said he wanted to touch base with me for sometime because of my charity work that is upcoming in racing. So, he did an interview on me with the intention to take a picture of me running. The interview lasted about an hour and a half and when we finished, we all went to lunch and even just having soup, I couldn't eat and I started to feel some pain in my abdomen and in my lower back. As I got back to my apartment, I started to cramp up all over, getting chills, a fever of 101, and of course, caught a stomach virus that put me out of everything and then spent 15 hours in my bathroom with my sickness.
A day after the whole ordeal, I started to feel weak, weaker than I am used to and to tell you the truth, I was scared because I am so used to it but I knew that I couldn't stop. That I had to make sure I was healthy again. I kept myself hydrated with water, Gatorade and Sprite and ate nothing but crackers.
What amazed the fill in doctor was that I ran a 5k with a bad sinus infection and still able to pull a wonderful time. She called it irresponsible and I can admit that it was irresponsible of me to do that. I guess in a way, my pride got in the way of my health and that will never happen again.
To those who have been worried, I apologize and you need not to worry about me. I may live alone, but I know how to take care of myself in times like this. I can be strong when it is needed and the word "weak" doesn't mean I am less than nothing, I am human, I make mistakes, I learn and I fight. It is just a reminder that even at my worst, I can still do my best to be better. If that makes any sense.
As for now, I am on a small vacation, until I start to feel a lot better, I am relaxing my body and my mind. Although, tomorrow, I may have a photo shoot to deal with, I am not putting myself in much danger and for the upcoming article for the Leader News, I will post that article for all of you who are not here to see it.
Thank you all for your support and your constant emails, again, words cannot not compare to what I feel right now.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Some submitted questions
Welcome one and all again, to another viewing of the ever so blah blah blah blog! If you are reading this, I thank you because I haven't bored you out of your socks yet and to those I have bored, I apologize on behalf of myself, my country, and of my mother too.
Nonetheless, this new blog is going to feature some questions from viewers who have emailed me and to those who have missed my email address, it is jeffylube40@hotmail.com and yes, I do view emails from viewers of this blog. These questions are random and I have selected some to display for those who have emailed me. And please feel free to email me on anything.
1.) Who or what has influenced you to start running? Well, it all started with my father, Jeff Turning Heart Sr., he was a standout athletic runner back in my home state of South Dakota. But after many years, a lot of have influenced me, Billy Mills, Steve Prefontaine, Alan Webb, Frank Shorter, Josh Cox...the list can go on and on for me.
2.) What brand of shoes do you prefer to run in? That is an easy question, Nike. Nike was always my brand to wear growing up because at the time, as a kid, I liked the swoosh and it stuck with me. I wore Nikes from as a young runner to today. But to me, Nike was more than just a brand, I became and still a part of the Nike running circuit.
3.) Where did the idea of the mohawk start? Well, if you have read the recent blog I posted, Evolution of the mohawk, we wouldn't get addressing this question, would we? Just kidding, the mohawk started up as for fun last year, for league dart season. After awhile, I was asked if the mohawk was going to make a comeback and I thought about it and voila, mohawk is back and my good friends at Universal Athletic designed an awesome shirt that reads "Hawk Nation" with a guy with a mohawk as a graphic detail.
4.)Who has been your biggest supporter? Easy, my mother. Growing up, my mother was always my inspiration and supporter because she helped raise at the time, 4 kids, by herself. And I know with as busy as she was, she would always encourage me to be my best at my own standards. Every time I've had a bad race, she was there to rub my back and say, "You've done your best and I am so proud of you." Or when I was leaving for a race, she would always say, and to this day, "Run like the wind, never look back. Turn and burn." No matter the race, she supports me in it.
5.) What got you into running for charities? It all started with this past summer. I just got back into racing and trained for the 5k in Underwood during Harvest Fest and I lost a friend to suicide. I was distraught, angry, confused, anything but good. And after I ran that race, I've wanted a challenge, so, I was approached with running the half marathon in Bismarck, ND. As I did my research on the race, I looked online and the website had a link, "charities" and I looked at the different charities and respectfully, they didn't click with me right away but I chose one that wasn't on their list, suicide prevention. I then contacted those who ran a non-profit organization, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and got everything going, my donor wall, my contacting of many and next thing you know, I was at the race and it felt so great to run for something other than yourself. And after that, my thought was, "I love running for charities, to be able to give back to those who need it." And that is how I got into running for charities. Look for my upcoming races in 2012. They are going to be great!
6.) Team Heart Militia is your running squad, what does it mean? Well, Team Heart Militia was something I started for myself because it was a personal quest. It still means, if you're going to go through your own battles, you bring your heart with. Without your heart, the battle is lost. And as time went by, I would come up with my own design concepts, my own quotes and artwork on the shirts. To have a quote to help inspire many to do their best. I am very proud to say that I have 3 runners on my squad that do great and I now have 7 honorary members of my brigade.
7.) If you run while listening to music, what is on your playlist? Funny you should ask that, my playlist on my iPod is labeled as "workout" and it consists of many artists that get me going. I have artists like, Tinie Tempah, TobyMac, Chipmunk, Icon For Hire, The Game, Shinedown, Eminem, The Red Jumpsuit Appartus, Skillet, Living Colour, Pink, Avril Lavigne, Paramore, the All American Rejects, Rev Theory and of course, Kelly Clarkson. I listen to everything because I really do not have a genre I stick with. I am not biased. Just as long as I can relate to the song or feel their vibe in the music, I am good.
8.) Tell us something funny about you? Well, umm.....I do like to sing....and dance, at the most random moments. Call it geeky but music is my thing. There would be times where I would hear a song and I can't help it. Even though I get weird looks or laughs, I am confident in myself because it is out of fun and life should be like that, fun. And I would like to apologize to many who have seen me dance or have heard me sing before...I am sorry for that. I should come with a rating or a warning label across my chest. And I do make voices or come up with weird sayings, especially with my friend, Alan.
9.) Tell us something serious about you? At times, I am very grateful to be alive and doing what I love to do. There are moments where my reflection on my life is blurred and vivid because I had to grow up so quick and had to be strong at a young age. And that I have lost a lot of great people in my life and it sucks at times because they were always there for me, for awhile, I used to think that everything I touched, dies. But as I got in touch with my faith, I knew that just having them in my life was great enough to share what they taught me and stand for what they stood for too. And to this day, I still do not know my real father that well.
10.) What has been your best race? I always say this, because it is true. My best race is always my next. My races that I have done were great and phenomonal but you cannot put a label on a race as "your best" because the next race can be your best or the next one. I love my races, no matter the outcome because of my heart.
11.) Are you seeing someone special? Why? Are you asking me out? Just kidding. Well, at the moment, I just had a date with someone that was overdue because of various conflicts in schedules but who knows what is next? I haven't met that special someone yet.
12.) In your recent blog about losing weight, how did you go about doing it? What is your secret? My secret is this and it is not much of a secret now that I have told you. Don't think about the weight, think about the workouts. It is all a mental thing because when I started working out and running, the last thing on my mind was the weight. I was thinking about the next workouts. And next thing you know, I lost 14 pounds and then it was 20 pounds and then it was 30 pounds. And some days, I ate very healthy, raw vegetables, fruit, drank lots of water, I gave up using salt in my diet. It was brutal but it is the price you pay to run your best.
13.) What is your favorite movie to watch before a race? My favorite movies to watch are the Rocky Balboa movies, Without Limits, and Running Brave. Geeky, I know.
14.) What can we expect out of you in 2012? The very best that I can be. By April, you will see how great I can be and the great I can bring to many. Just watch.
15.) If you had a speech to give the youth who are looking to be runners, what advice would you give them? My advice would be my speech, that no matter how hard life is going to hit you, take those hits because if you can get up from those hits and keep on moving, you are already winning. Never sell yourself short because if you do, you're not going to cut it in the long run. The next fad is the next recycled item for pickup on garbage day. Use your heart, your mind and yourself to know how hard you can push yourself. And never lose faith, in yourself, your gift and your beliefs. And never give up, always give in.
Well, those are some of the condensed questions that I had to format into this blog without going into their email responses and to those who have emailed me questions, there you go. Some that are personal, I will email you back this week.
I hope you all enjoyed this new blog and to you critics, I am still smiling. Thank you.
Nonetheless, this new blog is going to feature some questions from viewers who have emailed me and to those who have missed my email address, it is jeffylube40@hotmail.com and yes, I do view emails from viewers of this blog. These questions are random and I have selected some to display for those who have emailed me. And please feel free to email me on anything.
1.) Who or what has influenced you to start running? Well, it all started with my father, Jeff Turning Heart Sr., he was a standout athletic runner back in my home state of South Dakota. But after many years, a lot of have influenced me, Billy Mills, Steve Prefontaine, Alan Webb, Frank Shorter, Josh Cox...the list can go on and on for me.
2.) What brand of shoes do you prefer to run in? That is an easy question, Nike. Nike was always my brand to wear growing up because at the time, as a kid, I liked the swoosh and it stuck with me. I wore Nikes from as a young runner to today. But to me, Nike was more than just a brand, I became and still a part of the Nike running circuit.
3.) Where did the idea of the mohawk start? Well, if you have read the recent blog I posted, Evolution of the mohawk, we wouldn't get addressing this question, would we? Just kidding, the mohawk started up as for fun last year, for league dart season. After awhile, I was asked if the mohawk was going to make a comeback and I thought about it and voila, mohawk is back and my good friends at Universal Athletic designed an awesome shirt that reads "Hawk Nation" with a guy with a mohawk as a graphic detail.
4.)Who has been your biggest supporter? Easy, my mother. Growing up, my mother was always my inspiration and supporter because she helped raise at the time, 4 kids, by herself. And I know with as busy as she was, she would always encourage me to be my best at my own standards. Every time I've had a bad race, she was there to rub my back and say, "You've done your best and I am so proud of you." Or when I was leaving for a race, she would always say, and to this day, "Run like the wind, never look back. Turn and burn." No matter the race, she supports me in it.
5.) What got you into running for charities? It all started with this past summer. I just got back into racing and trained for the 5k in Underwood during Harvest Fest and I lost a friend to suicide. I was distraught, angry, confused, anything but good. And after I ran that race, I've wanted a challenge, so, I was approached with running the half marathon in Bismarck, ND. As I did my research on the race, I looked online and the website had a link, "charities" and I looked at the different charities and respectfully, they didn't click with me right away but I chose one that wasn't on their list, suicide prevention. I then contacted those who ran a non-profit organization, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and got everything going, my donor wall, my contacting of many and next thing you know, I was at the race and it felt so great to run for something other than yourself. And after that, my thought was, "I love running for charities, to be able to give back to those who need it." And that is how I got into running for charities. Look for my upcoming races in 2012. They are going to be great!
6.) Team Heart Militia is your running squad, what does it mean? Well, Team Heart Militia was something I started for myself because it was a personal quest. It still means, if you're going to go through your own battles, you bring your heart with. Without your heart, the battle is lost. And as time went by, I would come up with my own design concepts, my own quotes and artwork on the shirts. To have a quote to help inspire many to do their best. I am very proud to say that I have 3 runners on my squad that do great and I now have 7 honorary members of my brigade.
7.) If you run while listening to music, what is on your playlist? Funny you should ask that, my playlist on my iPod is labeled as "workout" and it consists of many artists that get me going. I have artists like, Tinie Tempah, TobyMac, Chipmunk, Icon For Hire, The Game, Shinedown, Eminem, The Red Jumpsuit Appartus, Skillet, Living Colour, Pink, Avril Lavigne, Paramore, the All American Rejects, Rev Theory and of course, Kelly Clarkson. I listen to everything because I really do not have a genre I stick with. I am not biased. Just as long as I can relate to the song or feel their vibe in the music, I am good.
8.) Tell us something funny about you? Well, umm.....I do like to sing....and dance, at the most random moments. Call it geeky but music is my thing. There would be times where I would hear a song and I can't help it. Even though I get weird looks or laughs, I am confident in myself because it is out of fun and life should be like that, fun. And I would like to apologize to many who have seen me dance or have heard me sing before...I am sorry for that. I should come with a rating or a warning label across my chest. And I do make voices or come up with weird sayings, especially with my friend, Alan.
9.) Tell us something serious about you? At times, I am very grateful to be alive and doing what I love to do. There are moments where my reflection on my life is blurred and vivid because I had to grow up so quick and had to be strong at a young age. And that I have lost a lot of great people in my life and it sucks at times because they were always there for me, for awhile, I used to think that everything I touched, dies. But as I got in touch with my faith, I knew that just having them in my life was great enough to share what they taught me and stand for what they stood for too. And to this day, I still do not know my real father that well.
10.) What has been your best race? I always say this, because it is true. My best race is always my next. My races that I have done were great and phenomonal but you cannot put a label on a race as "your best" because the next race can be your best or the next one. I love my races, no matter the outcome because of my heart.
11.) Are you seeing someone special? Why? Are you asking me out? Just kidding. Well, at the moment, I just had a date with someone that was overdue because of various conflicts in schedules but who knows what is next? I haven't met that special someone yet.
12.) In your recent blog about losing weight, how did you go about doing it? What is your secret? My secret is this and it is not much of a secret now that I have told you. Don't think about the weight, think about the workouts. It is all a mental thing because when I started working out and running, the last thing on my mind was the weight. I was thinking about the next workouts. And next thing you know, I lost 14 pounds and then it was 20 pounds and then it was 30 pounds. And some days, I ate very healthy, raw vegetables, fruit, drank lots of water, I gave up using salt in my diet. It was brutal but it is the price you pay to run your best.
13.) What is your favorite movie to watch before a race? My favorite movies to watch are the Rocky Balboa movies, Without Limits, and Running Brave. Geeky, I know.
14.) What can we expect out of you in 2012? The very best that I can be. By April, you will see how great I can be and the great I can bring to many. Just watch.
15.) If you had a speech to give the youth who are looking to be runners, what advice would you give them? My advice would be my speech, that no matter how hard life is going to hit you, take those hits because if you can get up from those hits and keep on moving, you are already winning. Never sell yourself short because if you do, you're not going to cut it in the long run. The next fad is the next recycled item for pickup on garbage day. Use your heart, your mind and yourself to know how hard you can push yourself. And never lose faith, in yourself, your gift and your beliefs. And never give up, always give in.
Well, those are some of the condensed questions that I had to format into this blog without going into their email responses and to those who have emailed me questions, there you go. Some that are personal, I will email you back this week.
I hope you all enjoyed this new blog and to you critics, I am still smiling. Thank you.
Monday, December 5, 2011
A letter to my critics
After reading many emails or as I like to call them, "hate" mail in my inbox. It usually is my favorite but sometimes a bitter treat for my day. Whatever it is, it has be to be done because it comes with the nature of the beast.
When I started this blog and displayed my email address in a previous blog, I knew that I would get questions, comments or negativity. I knew I painted a bullseye on my back to some who became my critics. To some, I was seen as a person who was doing his best for good causes and doing what he could to help others in their time of need. To others, it was just a publicity act or to gain attention. And with this blog, this is made for you, to help you realize what I go through on a day to day basis.
To some of you who think I am a fake, a phoney or just a disgrace, as a matter of a fact, I have heard these words and many others growing up. Sure, it shocks or is bitter at times to take in, but hey, nothing new to me. I know that there are not many in this world that doesn't think highly of me or some who act nice only to my face, I just take it in as it should be, a chip on my shoulder.
If you think I am a fake because what I do is real just boggles my mind because if you could just put yourselves in my shoes, to take the many steps and run the obstacles that I deal with daily, your perspective would be different. On a day to day basis for me, it is pretty hectic, I work a full time job of 40 hours a week and on my days off or on some late nights, I work on fund raising, my workout routines, keeping in contact with representatives, keeping updated on events, working on the budget, and helping being a pen pal to so many of each charity. I even wake up early to do a workout, to help start my day and hospital visits because of my previous neck and shoulder injury and other injuries I may have sustained during my training. I even get my heart checked out from time to time again for my heart murmur, to help monitor it. I hope this helps you understand what is real to me when you think of me as a fake.
In this blog, you will never see me belittle you or call you out one by one by your user names or emails, I just want you to understand that some days, you may think less of me but there are those who count, my family, friends and many who think highly of me and that is what keeps me going.
And yes, I know that with my name, I should be doing great or living to the legendary status that my father did in his prime but in the real world, that was him, this is me. I have respected his career and I am now respecting my gift and talent. I may not be as talented as him in any aspect but that is just fine with me because if I was just like him, I wouldn't have been myself.
I have never called myself an icon or a role model. I actually wanted to inspire many to achieve their own dreams and take on the world in their own way because I do not want a carbon copy of what I have done, follow your own footsteps, why would you want the stars if you could have the universe? Shoot beyond your own horizons. And never give up on yourselves, give into what is given inside, passion, desire, love, faith....everything that is a inspirational success. I always challenge those to not be like me, be yourselves, be better than me.
And to the final critic, I do not do this for money or success because you do not see me on television or newspapers or any articles in magazines plugging in what I am doing. And I was blessed to actually be given a grant for next year's races because of each organization I represent and it was their offer, not mine.
Also, to the email from an outspoken viewer, thank you, my mohawk is pretty awesome, right? To you, I may seem like it is a sign of being a rebel or a punk but that is because you have been listening to too much Green Day. And as long as I have it, you will be seeing more of it, get used to it.
As my final saying to each and one of you critics, I say this with my full heart......thank you. Thanks for being as harsh as you can because you add fuel to my fire and that is what drives me. You may think less of me but I think more of you.
When I started this blog and displayed my email address in a previous blog, I knew that I would get questions, comments or negativity. I knew I painted a bullseye on my back to some who became my critics. To some, I was seen as a person who was doing his best for good causes and doing what he could to help others in their time of need. To others, it was just a publicity act or to gain attention. And with this blog, this is made for you, to help you realize what I go through on a day to day basis.
To some of you who think I am a fake, a phoney or just a disgrace, as a matter of a fact, I have heard these words and many others growing up. Sure, it shocks or is bitter at times to take in, but hey, nothing new to me. I know that there are not many in this world that doesn't think highly of me or some who act nice only to my face, I just take it in as it should be, a chip on my shoulder.
If you think I am a fake because what I do is real just boggles my mind because if you could just put yourselves in my shoes, to take the many steps and run the obstacles that I deal with daily, your perspective would be different. On a day to day basis for me, it is pretty hectic, I work a full time job of 40 hours a week and on my days off or on some late nights, I work on fund raising, my workout routines, keeping in contact with representatives, keeping updated on events, working on the budget, and helping being a pen pal to so many of each charity. I even wake up early to do a workout, to help start my day and hospital visits because of my previous neck and shoulder injury and other injuries I may have sustained during my training. I even get my heart checked out from time to time again for my heart murmur, to help monitor it. I hope this helps you understand what is real to me when you think of me as a fake.
In this blog, you will never see me belittle you or call you out one by one by your user names or emails, I just want you to understand that some days, you may think less of me but there are those who count, my family, friends and many who think highly of me and that is what keeps me going.
And yes, I know that with my name, I should be doing great or living to the legendary status that my father did in his prime but in the real world, that was him, this is me. I have respected his career and I am now respecting my gift and talent. I may not be as talented as him in any aspect but that is just fine with me because if I was just like him, I wouldn't have been myself.
I have never called myself an icon or a role model. I actually wanted to inspire many to achieve their own dreams and take on the world in their own way because I do not want a carbon copy of what I have done, follow your own footsteps, why would you want the stars if you could have the universe? Shoot beyond your own horizons. And never give up on yourselves, give into what is given inside, passion, desire, love, faith....everything that is a inspirational success. I always challenge those to not be like me, be yourselves, be better than me.
And to the final critic, I do not do this for money or success because you do not see me on television or newspapers or any articles in magazines plugging in what I am doing. And I was blessed to actually be given a grant for next year's races because of each organization I represent and it was their offer, not mine.
Also, to the email from an outspoken viewer, thank you, my mohawk is pretty awesome, right? To you, I may seem like it is a sign of being a rebel or a punk but that is because you have been listening to too much Green Day. And as long as I have it, you will be seeing more of it, get used to it.
As my final saying to each and one of you critics, I say this with my full heart......thank you. Thanks for being as harsh as you can because you add fuel to my fire and that is what drives me. You may think less of me but I think more of you.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
The Jingle Bell 5k run in Fargo, ND
Well, as I sit here, listening to my music and calming my legs down from an explosive but great day. I am quite proud to say that I ended my 2011 race season with a good note.
I left Washburn on Friday at 12:00 p.m. and arrived in Fargo a little after 4 p.m. and found the hotel I was staying at and kind of relaxed for a bit, looked around at areas and got to spend some time with my adopted dad. And to tell you the truth, before I went to bed, I had butterflies the size of eagles in my stomach. I was nervous because of the race.
After getting 7 hours of sleep, I woke up, feeling focused and turned on the television and changed the channel to the weather and seen that the morning was at 27 degrees but with a north west wind made the temperature at 17 degrees. I got my mind prepared and looked through the New Testament and wrote out II Corinthians 12:10 on a piece of paper and stuck it in my shoe. I felt a bit hesitant because of my foot injury that plagued me before Thanksgiving but whether I felt it or dealt with it, the race was still amongst me.
The quote said that even when I am weak, through the love of Christ, I am strong. My motivation for that cold blistering morning. I felt ready.
As I approached the building where the race was taking place, I looked around and seen a sea or green and red, I felt as if I walked out on Santa's village at the North Pole, it made me smile but what got to me was talking to others who were running for their relatives and friends who have arthritis. And also getting a chance to talk to kids who have arthritis and couldn't help but cheer from their wheelchairs. I felt proud to be there.
When 9:00 a.m. arrived, the chilly morning was making us all huddle for warmth but when it was time to run, I was behind the entire pack and the wind was against us for over a mile and a half but I kept striving for moving forward to the middle of the pack and after battling the harsh wind, my throat felt like it was on fire because of inhaling too much cold air. As we made our 2nd mile, I pushed myself to catch more runners and as we hit a corner of a street, I seen in a distance, the finish line and I kicked it in to the max and as I got near the finish, many hands were clapping and many came next to me to give me a high five.
What amazed me was, when I looked the clock for my time, I seen it was at 23 minutes and I was shocked because with my injured foot, I figured I would be running the 5k in 30 minutes but seeing that time made me feel great. As I crossed the finish, I jumped in the air and screamed because of my exciting discovery. And when I did finished, I walked over to the kids and gave them high fives and shook hands with the other runners and told them they did a great job because they did.
What made me laugh was a male runner came up to me and said, "From the start of the race, I seen you catching up to others and I wanted to catch you and just as soon as I caught up to you, you started to sprint and I couldn't catch you. I just wanted to say that you were a tough runner." That made me smile and laugh. I guess I never was approached like that before.
I then went indoors to sit down and that is when I called my mother back home in South Dakota and told her the news, she was just like me, esctatic. I knew she was very proud of me. My time for the 5k was my personal best. I ran the 5k in Underwood, ND back in August but that time was 24:56 and this 5k, I ran it in an astonishing 23:53. That made me feel great because I wasn't expecting it.
As we all made our way to the gymnasium of the Courts Fitness Center, I seen that our times and placings were on the windows. I looked at my name and time, I then seen that I placed 55th place and after 30 minutes of standing around, I noticed that the total amount of runners were 354. I could not believe I placed in the top 60.
All I have to say is that this was a great day to end my 2011 races and I am now awaiting for the races I have in 2012. Many charities and many tests of my heart. Life is a race, run it, see how far you get.
All I can say is, today was a day that I needed and I am so very grateful to be able to run this race. I believe in miracles and today was one of those days.
Well, I hope this blog suffices against any of your boredom and again, I can't help but thank everyone of you for reading this blog. To hear the comments and private messages make these experiences worth white.
I wish you all a happy night and a good rest of your weekend as it is late for me now. Good night and take care, be your own miracle. :)
I left Washburn on Friday at 12:00 p.m. and arrived in Fargo a little after 4 p.m. and found the hotel I was staying at and kind of relaxed for a bit, looked around at areas and got to spend some time with my adopted dad. And to tell you the truth, before I went to bed, I had butterflies the size of eagles in my stomach. I was nervous because of the race.
After getting 7 hours of sleep, I woke up, feeling focused and turned on the television and changed the channel to the weather and seen that the morning was at 27 degrees but with a north west wind made the temperature at 17 degrees. I got my mind prepared and looked through the New Testament and wrote out II Corinthians 12:10 on a piece of paper and stuck it in my shoe. I felt a bit hesitant because of my foot injury that plagued me before Thanksgiving but whether I felt it or dealt with it, the race was still amongst me.
The quote said that even when I am weak, through the love of Christ, I am strong. My motivation for that cold blistering morning. I felt ready.
As I approached the building where the race was taking place, I looked around and seen a sea or green and red, I felt as if I walked out on Santa's village at the North Pole, it made me smile but what got to me was talking to others who were running for their relatives and friends who have arthritis. And also getting a chance to talk to kids who have arthritis and couldn't help but cheer from their wheelchairs. I felt proud to be there.
When 9:00 a.m. arrived, the chilly morning was making us all huddle for warmth but when it was time to run, I was behind the entire pack and the wind was against us for over a mile and a half but I kept striving for moving forward to the middle of the pack and after battling the harsh wind, my throat felt like it was on fire because of inhaling too much cold air. As we made our 2nd mile, I pushed myself to catch more runners and as we hit a corner of a street, I seen in a distance, the finish line and I kicked it in to the max and as I got near the finish, many hands were clapping and many came next to me to give me a high five.
What amazed me was, when I looked the clock for my time, I seen it was at 23 minutes and I was shocked because with my injured foot, I figured I would be running the 5k in 30 minutes but seeing that time made me feel great. As I crossed the finish, I jumped in the air and screamed because of my exciting discovery. And when I did finished, I walked over to the kids and gave them high fives and shook hands with the other runners and told them they did a great job because they did.
What made me laugh was a male runner came up to me and said, "From the start of the race, I seen you catching up to others and I wanted to catch you and just as soon as I caught up to you, you started to sprint and I couldn't catch you. I just wanted to say that you were a tough runner." That made me smile and laugh. I guess I never was approached like that before.
I then went indoors to sit down and that is when I called my mother back home in South Dakota and told her the news, she was just like me, esctatic. I knew she was very proud of me. My time for the 5k was my personal best. I ran the 5k in Underwood, ND back in August but that time was 24:56 and this 5k, I ran it in an astonishing 23:53. That made me feel great because I wasn't expecting it.
As we all made our way to the gymnasium of the Courts Fitness Center, I seen that our times and placings were on the windows. I looked at my name and time, I then seen that I placed 55th place and after 30 minutes of standing around, I noticed that the total amount of runners were 354. I could not believe I placed in the top 60.
All I have to say is that this was a great day to end my 2011 races and I am now awaiting for the races I have in 2012. Many charities and many tests of my heart. Life is a race, run it, see how far you get.
All I can say is, today was a day that I needed and I am so very grateful to be able to run this race. I believe in miracles and today was one of those days.
Well, I hope this blog suffices against any of your boredom and again, I can't help but thank everyone of you for reading this blog. To hear the comments and private messages make these experiences worth white.
I wish you all a happy night and a good rest of your weekend as it is late for me now. Good night and take care, be your own miracle. :)
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Counting down the days
Here I am, awaiting for the next 3 days for the Jingle Bell 5k Run in Fargo, ND. And I have to say that I have been feeling so much better except for a fall which I will explain here in a bit. But all in all of this week, I am feeling confident, strong and happy.
I have decided to switch things up on my routine of running, I started with my runs after work but now I have switched to morning runs (either 5 a.m. or 6 a.m.) and I find myself more focused on the task at hand. And my milage has been gradually building up from 3 miles a day to now an astonishing 12 miles a day!
What amazes me of my training is my mind focus, I have my race coming up and usually by now, I am sweating bullets and jumping up and down, just ready. But now, I am more relaxed and calm and at ease with myself. But when it comes to race day, I am ready and can't wait for my dosage of adrenaline.
My music selection on my playlist has taken a funny yet great turn. I used to jog or workout to music and it as always hard rock or sometimes, hip hop but of all things to enter my playlist was Kelly Clarkson and some Christian music. Don't get me wrong, wonderful choices but I always looked for the hard, edgy music to get me going on tough runs but after hearing that song, What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger) by Kelly Clarkson has been a HUGE motivating factor in my running and my dancing ability too.
Funny story for everyone, after I purchased the song by Kelly Clarkson on iTunes, I liked it because of the beat and the message of the song and boom, instant adrenaline. And after listening to it and pushing it into my tempo base of running, I ended up dancing during my run here in Washburn, ND. To some, quite embarrassing when others drive by and you see an Indian dancing to Kelly Clarkson but come on, I was having fun, I wasn't constricted down to being a robot! To me, I had fun and to those who smiled and laughed made it all seem better, no fear and quite confident. But a fair warning to those who see me in this nature, it is not pretty and just be glad you can't hear me singing, I sound like my little brother when I am trying to hit a high note.
Apart from laughing and having fun with new music, I have been humble to find myself back and the mornings will be seeing me more because I love seeing the difference between morning and evenings, for my runs. And I have discovered that during both sessions, I have found out that even though it is at different times of the day and some like, some don't but to me, I always have a smile and a common respect for what is around me.
Having a day off this week, on Monday, I wanted a challege and so at 6 a.m., I went for a 5 mile run and kept it simple and decided to take it up a notch and do another running session in the afternoon. At 3 p.m., I ran 7 miles to compile my daily average to 12 miles and it was a good steady run and the only thing that messed me up was a train that passed through and it kept me waiting at a crossing for over 7 minutes that I had to make up in the end. But after it did pass, I took the route I wanted and got to the other side, the train stopped and was blocking me, once again! But I ran along a dirt trail and went to the front of the train and decided to just pass by but as soon as I passed, I heard the train start up and scared the living day lights out of me and boom, I slipped and fell down a coulee (a valley formed by water) and I must have dropped 8 feet into the coulee, filled with broken concrete and horrible conditions, I stood up, checked myself, no broken bones (Thank you, God) but I had scrapes on my neck, my elbow and my leg on my left side.
After that tough fall, I was fortunate to not be any more hurt than I was then. But I was glad to finish that run though, to be able to do 12 miles again, very awesome indeed.
Well, this concludes another post from yours truely, a Kelly Clarkson loving Indian that loves to dance. Live life on how you feel. Be strong and be proud. Thank you again.
I have decided to switch things up on my routine of running, I started with my runs after work but now I have switched to morning runs (either 5 a.m. or 6 a.m.) and I find myself more focused on the task at hand. And my milage has been gradually building up from 3 miles a day to now an astonishing 12 miles a day!
What amazes me of my training is my mind focus, I have my race coming up and usually by now, I am sweating bullets and jumping up and down, just ready. But now, I am more relaxed and calm and at ease with myself. But when it comes to race day, I am ready and can't wait for my dosage of adrenaline.
My music selection on my playlist has taken a funny yet great turn. I used to jog or workout to music and it as always hard rock or sometimes, hip hop but of all things to enter my playlist was Kelly Clarkson and some Christian music. Don't get me wrong, wonderful choices but I always looked for the hard, edgy music to get me going on tough runs but after hearing that song, What Doesn't Kill You (Stronger) by Kelly Clarkson has been a HUGE motivating factor in my running and my dancing ability too.
Funny story for everyone, after I purchased the song by Kelly Clarkson on iTunes, I liked it because of the beat and the message of the song and boom, instant adrenaline. And after listening to it and pushing it into my tempo base of running, I ended up dancing during my run here in Washburn, ND. To some, quite embarrassing when others drive by and you see an Indian dancing to Kelly Clarkson but come on, I was having fun, I wasn't constricted down to being a robot! To me, I had fun and to those who smiled and laughed made it all seem better, no fear and quite confident. But a fair warning to those who see me in this nature, it is not pretty and just be glad you can't hear me singing, I sound like my little brother when I am trying to hit a high note.
Apart from laughing and having fun with new music, I have been humble to find myself back and the mornings will be seeing me more because I love seeing the difference between morning and evenings, for my runs. And I have discovered that during both sessions, I have found out that even though it is at different times of the day and some like, some don't but to me, I always have a smile and a common respect for what is around me.
Having a day off this week, on Monday, I wanted a challege and so at 6 a.m., I went for a 5 mile run and kept it simple and decided to take it up a notch and do another running session in the afternoon. At 3 p.m., I ran 7 miles to compile my daily average to 12 miles and it was a good steady run and the only thing that messed me up was a train that passed through and it kept me waiting at a crossing for over 7 minutes that I had to make up in the end. But after it did pass, I took the route I wanted and got to the other side, the train stopped and was blocking me, once again! But I ran along a dirt trail and went to the front of the train and decided to just pass by but as soon as I passed, I heard the train start up and scared the living day lights out of me and boom, I slipped and fell down a coulee (a valley formed by water) and I must have dropped 8 feet into the coulee, filled with broken concrete and horrible conditions, I stood up, checked myself, no broken bones (Thank you, God) but I had scrapes on my neck, my elbow and my leg on my left side.
After that tough fall, I was fortunate to not be any more hurt than I was then. But I was glad to finish that run though, to be able to do 12 miles again, very awesome indeed.
Well, this concludes another post from yours truely, a Kelly Clarkson loving Indian that loves to dance. Live life on how you feel. Be strong and be proud. Thank you again.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
The upcoming race
Even with the cold temperatures arriving here in North Dakota and we had some days of beautiful weather and I am not complaining whatsoever because after my college running days, I do not mind any of the weather, hot, cold, windy, rainy, snowy or anything because of my great coach from the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota.
My coach from high school, Earl Roberts was a great coach because from day one, he never compared me to my father who was a stand out athlete in his glory days. He taught me how to use everything around me and make it my own. Even though at competition, there were many who compared me or even felt disgusted that I wasn't like my father. But to him, it didn't matter, just as long as I was having fun and doing my best for my team, for him and most of all, myself.
I guess you can say that my coaches have been my guiding light and I felt priviliged to be with them and I got to learn and to this day, use everything they taught me as I ventured out into the running world, by myself and now at times, I do get to help coach those who need it. In a way, they taught me not only to be a runner but in some sense, a coach.
With the upcoming race on December 3rd in Fargo, North Dakota, I am ready. I have been ready, but my foot wasn't because of my injury. I kept my mind focused on what is at hand and what my plan was and that is this.....run and have fun. This race isn't just me winning a prize or a medal, it is for a great cause, for helping those with arthritis and it is a nation wide event! Can you believe that, every state has their own Jingle Bell Run.
Learning from reading the scriptures of the Bible, I have found it to guide my inner peace to help me with this race, to pray for my well being and for others in their time of need. My prayers are like my pain, I keep in silence.
These past few days of getting back on my trail to running has been my own miracle because I have yet to feel any pain in my body that prevents me from doing anything. My running has been off the map, I feel so much strength and it is all because of everyone, my family, my friends, just everyone.
One thing that made me feel great was I was looking through some old photos of myself to find one of my old running days and I stumbled across a picture taken on March 3, 2011 and I could hardly recognized myself because at that time, I was very injured with my neck and arm that I didn't run as much as I do now, that I gained weight and it slowed me down and made me feel horrible because I let myself go.
But after training and running starting the first week of June and to this day, I am happy to announced that from March 3rd to Present, I lost a total of 28 pounds and I feel great! I always say, be the miracle, even with your everyday life. I am amazed with how much determination and faith you can put in yourself to keep on going and what is even more amazing is that there are more stories that are bigger than mine, out there in the world. That someone overcame their obstacle and defined their own odds.
This was me (pictures on the left) March 3, 2011 weighing at 221 pounds and this is me in September 2011, weighing at 193 pounds and feeling great and stronger. What is your story?
Sometimes in life, we all look to be happy with ourselves, mentally, physically and emotionally and even spiritually. Be strong and never give up.
Thank you again for reading another blah blah blog by yours truely, have a happy Sunday and I will be posting more because it is my last race this week!!
My coach from high school, Earl Roberts was a great coach because from day one, he never compared me to my father who was a stand out athlete in his glory days. He taught me how to use everything around me and make it my own. Even though at competition, there were many who compared me or even felt disgusted that I wasn't like my father. But to him, it didn't matter, just as long as I was having fun and doing my best for my team, for him and most of all, myself.
I guess you can say that my coaches have been my guiding light and I felt priviliged to be with them and I got to learn and to this day, use everything they taught me as I ventured out into the running world, by myself and now at times, I do get to help coach those who need it. In a way, they taught me not only to be a runner but in some sense, a coach.
With the upcoming race on December 3rd in Fargo, North Dakota, I am ready. I have been ready, but my foot wasn't because of my injury. I kept my mind focused on what is at hand and what my plan was and that is this.....run and have fun. This race isn't just me winning a prize or a medal, it is for a great cause, for helping those with arthritis and it is a nation wide event! Can you believe that, every state has their own Jingle Bell Run.
Learning from reading the scriptures of the Bible, I have found it to guide my inner peace to help me with this race, to pray for my well being and for others in their time of need. My prayers are like my pain, I keep in silence.
These past few days of getting back on my trail to running has been my own miracle because I have yet to feel any pain in my body that prevents me from doing anything. My running has been off the map, I feel so much strength and it is all because of everyone, my family, my friends, just everyone.
One thing that made me feel great was I was looking through some old photos of myself to find one of my old running days and I stumbled across a picture taken on March 3, 2011 and I could hardly recognized myself because at that time, I was very injured with my neck and arm that I didn't run as much as I do now, that I gained weight and it slowed me down and made me feel horrible because I let myself go.
But after training and running starting the first week of June and to this day, I am happy to announced that from March 3rd to Present, I lost a total of 28 pounds and I feel great! I always say, be the miracle, even with your everyday life. I am amazed with how much determination and faith you can put in yourself to keep on going and what is even more amazing is that there are more stories that are bigger than mine, out there in the world. That someone overcame their obstacle and defined their own odds.
Sometimes in life, we all look to be happy with ourselves, mentally, physically and emotionally and even spiritually. Be strong and never give up.
Thank you again for reading another blah blah blog by yours truely, have a happy Sunday and I will be posting more because it is my last race this week!!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
The Hope and Faith Tour featuring other races schedules
As race day approaches in 10 days for the Jingle Bell 5k Run for Athritis in Fargo, ND, I am ready to run and my running has been gradually going along good since my foot injury. I have been averaging 15 minutes to now 30 minutes and picked up the tempo of my runs.
I have my running playlist uploaded and I was surprised on how much music I listen to during my runs which is very often. I do occasionally run without music, and people find this odd that I do run while listening to an audio book from iTunes. It does help me with the long runs though.
But here is the Hope and Faith Tour schedule for 2012 and some dates for those runs have not been determined yet but I will let those know about what is coming.
April 27-28 Christie Clinic Illinois Half Marathon in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois
May 19-21 Fargo Half Marathon in Fargo, North Dakota
June-The Coulee Trail Classic 4.2 miles in Washburn, North Dakota
June 30-the Warrior Dash in South Hastings, Minnesota
July 4-The 4th of July 5k in Mandan, North Dakota
August-the Harvest Fest 5k in Underwood, North Dakota
September-Bismarck Kroll's Diner Half Marathon in Bismarck, North Dakota
-John Colter's Run in Bozeman, Montana-still undetermined
October-Bank of America's Half Marathon in Chicago, Illinois
-Medcenter One's Breast Cancer Awareness 8k in Bismarck, North Dakota
-Monster Dash 5k in Bismarck, North Dakota
November-the Turkey Trot 10k in Bismarck, North Dakota
December-the Jingle Bell 5k Run for Athritis in Fargo, North Dakota
This highlighted races are half marathons for charities and the rest are for awareness and funding/research. And then there are some that I have grown fond of for the past few years. And yes, a total of 13 races this coming year and I am still finding out if I can run another half marathon for Team Challenge for the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America's national team in 2012 in Las Vegas!
It may seem like I have a lot of races coming up but I love them. There is nothing like finishing strong and knowing you did your best and to share it with many others. I am very excited for my upcoming races in North Dakota and many other states.
One that became new with me is the Warrior Dash in South Hastings, Minnesota because it is a challenge for me and to others, it seem barbaric but to me, it looks fun and I am always up for a challenge.
The Warrior Dash consists of 3 hellish miles through rough terrain, mud and obstacles. I will add on a link for those who are interested in what I am discussing here. And yes, to answer your questions, I am indeed crazy and have lost my marbles but hey, you only live once. I am doing this race to say that I have done it without any regrets.
http://www.warriordash.com/
Usually when I get done racing an event, I always get a person who asks me what my favorite race was and my reply is, "the next one." because there is that idea in my mind on what to expect and to shock myself in my performance.
Hopefully, this blog gets you an idea on what is in store for the future for me and my running.
Thanks once again, readers.
Jeff Turning Heart Jr., a.k.a. Jeff Runs A Lot
Team Heart Militia Chief
I have my running playlist uploaded and I was surprised on how much music I listen to during my runs which is very often. I do occasionally run without music, and people find this odd that I do run while listening to an audio book from iTunes. It does help me with the long runs though.
But here is the Hope and Faith Tour schedule for 2012 and some dates for those runs have not been determined yet but I will let those know about what is coming.
April 27-28 Christie Clinic Illinois Half Marathon in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois
May 19-21 Fargo Half Marathon in Fargo, North Dakota
June-The Coulee Trail Classic 4.2 miles in Washburn, North Dakota
June 30-the Warrior Dash in South Hastings, Minnesota
July 4-The 4th of July 5k in Mandan, North Dakota
August-the Harvest Fest 5k in Underwood, North Dakota
September-Bismarck Kroll's Diner Half Marathon in Bismarck, North Dakota
-John Colter's Run in Bozeman, Montana-still undetermined
October-Bank of America's Half Marathon in Chicago, Illinois
-Medcenter One's Breast Cancer Awareness 8k in Bismarck, North Dakota
-Monster Dash 5k in Bismarck, North Dakota
November-the Turkey Trot 10k in Bismarck, North Dakota
December-the Jingle Bell 5k Run for Athritis in Fargo, North Dakota
This highlighted races are half marathons for charities and the rest are for awareness and funding/research. And then there are some that I have grown fond of for the past few years. And yes, a total of 13 races this coming year and I am still finding out if I can run another half marathon for Team Challenge for the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America's national team in 2012 in Las Vegas!
It may seem like I have a lot of races coming up but I love them. There is nothing like finishing strong and knowing you did your best and to share it with many others. I am very excited for my upcoming races in North Dakota and many other states.
One that became new with me is the Warrior Dash in South Hastings, Minnesota because it is a challenge for me and to others, it seem barbaric but to me, it looks fun and I am always up for a challenge.
http://www.warriordash.com/
Usually when I get done racing an event, I always get a person who asks me what my favorite race was and my reply is, "the next one." because there is that idea in my mind on what to expect and to shock myself in my performance.
Hopefully, this blog gets you an idea on what is in store for the future for me and my running.
Thanks once again, readers.
Jeff Turning Heart Jr., a.k.a. Jeff Runs A Lot
Team Heart Militia Chief
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
I am no hero.
But somewhere along the way, I changed because I never had the same caliber as him but I found my own passion and that was, the sport. Running wasn't just about winning medals, trophies or titles. Neither is it about having the absolute best personal record of a time to finish a race. My mind set was, "what is the main purpose of a race?" Is it to be faster than others? Or is it the determination of the mind, body and soul?
And don't get me wrong, I do have a set goal of a time that I keep for myself when I do have a race but if I was successful, I was happy for myself but if I didn't make that time I wanted, then there is alway a next time and it will keep me focused and harness my inner drive.
The main reason why I say that I am no hero or never claim it is because I meet with a lot of people who are dealing with everything that is beating them down, cancer, suicide, cystic fibrosis, crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diabetes, kids who are living in group homes and some kids who are looking for a role model, they are my absolute heroes because of what they go through on a day to day basis. That even though some think that the world was cruel when they were given the short end of the stick but yet, they smile and keep on smiling because they held onto their faith so strong that not even the best in the world could destroy something others search for, their passion and that is, life.
I run for them because I have a connection with so many on different levels and to be able to run for them has been my honor. I do not run for ego, money or anything materialistic. I run for the people and to me, that is worth more than any dollar amount.
I have faith in myself that I will do my best for them and that one day, it will inspire many others to do the same. And with my personal running squad, Team Heart Militia, means that whenever you come across a situation where you are being beaten down by life or just facing another day, that you bring your heart to war because you would be shocked on how far your heart gets you. It is why my team name is called that. And my running squad has been recruiting fellow honorable members. And my motto is: Be the miracle.
With the new and upcoming year of 2012 right around the corner, I prepare myself for many half marathons and road races and working on my charities for now. And I will have to tell you that it has been keeping me very busy but I am proud of my work I have been working on. I have been working on what races I would want to do, working on the budget, training and working on my donor walls.
What has been exciting is that I will be showing my personal interest on joining a team called Team Challenge for Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America and will be doing my best to represent North Dakota, South Dakota and Minnesota. And this team is a national team and will be working on what running events I could do for their organization. Fulfilling indeed and I will keep you all updated on what will be going on for the next few weeks.
Thank you all for once again, tuning in to another blog post of the Diary Of A Mad Runner and with my upcoming race in Fargo, ND, expect a lot of information and some good times.
Monday, November 21, 2011
The first day back and winter running tips
Well, yesterday (November 20, 2011), I started back up with jogging. It wasn't a fairly long jog but a good start to get back into running again. For the 15 minutes I jogged around Washburn, I started to feel better because my foot wasn't in pain like it was before and it was almost like I felt invincible again.
Sometimes when I run around town and get a great view of the Missouri River and over looking the scenery has made my running enjoyable. But that particular morning was different. I started up at 6:30 a.m. and did my normal stretching and feeling the butterflies, I dressed warm as it was a astonishing 4 degrees with a slight wind at 8 mph. I thought about the upcoming race for me, which is on December 3rd in Fargo. Even though it is a 5k run, it will be my last race for the year as I did some fantastic races this week. I have been proud of my accomplishments.
What got me feeling proud was after the run, the sun began to rise and it shined upon me, like a warm embrace that I am still in this, regardless of what I went through in the previous years.
Winter running has always been the most challenging task I have ever had, the slick ground that is proven to be dangerous, the frigid air, the stiff muscles and mixed with wind can be hurting. But runners never have the constant perfect days, going through such weather situations, it makes you stronger for your competition and that is what I focus on, that this will make me stronger than I can dream of.
For those runners who are beginning in the winter, here are some tips from a person who is crazy enough to run in such horrible weather.
1. Dress in layers, base layers will help retain heat to your body.
2. Be aware of your surroundings, a slight turn on ice or off the path can be dangerous
3. Dress warm, not cool. It is better to dress in warm clothing and look silly than dress in fabric that isn't made for winter, running isn't a fashion statement.
4. Protect your feet and hands. Wearing any random pair of socks or gloves isn't going to cut it. Fleece gloves or insulated gloves work and thicker socks work on keeping your feet warm from cold temps on the ground level.
5. Carrying extra. To be safe, I always carry my cellphone, some extra cash and my ID on me because you may never know what may happen on your run.
6. Protection of your face and ears. When colder temps are amongst us, it is good to invest in a facemask and a stocking cap or sometimes at different stores, they have both built into one. Granted you may look like a person who is ready to rob a bank but at least you'll be warm. And if the police do get suspicious, hold your hands up in the air as they see you do not have a weapon on you and don't be afraid to show your face to them and smile. It lets them know you are friendly.
7. Stay visible. Wearing bright colors will let you be visible to those who are traveling in vehicles and at some retail stores, they do make clothing with reflectable tagging that reflects from the headlights of vehicles. Or some actually do make a vest or a strap to wrap around your arm, leg or head to reflect off of the headlights of vehicles too.
Some of these tips I have learned from running in a winter environment and I may look goofy but at least I am still alive today and safe. That is all that matters to me. I rather look silly than to be in a hospital or worse, dead.
I am sure I could think of more tips to add but I am sure I could ramble on that for hours. And for my fellow runners, I wish you a safe run and I hope you are doing great!
Any questions or comments, please feel free to publish or you can contact me by my emails: jturningheart@fortmandan.org or jeffylube40@hotmail.com and even leave a comment on the provided box at the end of this blog. I do reply and be willing to answer any questions or anything that you may have on your mind.
Thank you once again for tuning in for the newest blog of the Diary of a mad runner. And Fargo, ND, get ready because in 12 days, I will be ready.
Sometimes when I run around town and get a great view of the Missouri River and over looking the scenery has made my running enjoyable. But that particular morning was different. I started up at 6:30 a.m. and did my normal stretching and feeling the butterflies, I dressed warm as it was a astonishing 4 degrees with a slight wind at 8 mph. I thought about the upcoming race for me, which is on December 3rd in Fargo. Even though it is a 5k run, it will be my last race for the year as I did some fantastic races this week. I have been proud of my accomplishments.
What got me feeling proud was after the run, the sun began to rise and it shined upon me, like a warm embrace that I am still in this, regardless of what I went through in the previous years.
Winter running has always been the most challenging task I have ever had, the slick ground that is proven to be dangerous, the frigid air, the stiff muscles and mixed with wind can be hurting. But runners never have the constant perfect days, going through such weather situations, it makes you stronger for your competition and that is what I focus on, that this will make me stronger than I can dream of.
For those runners who are beginning in the winter, here are some tips from a person who is crazy enough to run in such horrible weather.
1. Dress in layers, base layers will help retain heat to your body.
2. Be aware of your surroundings, a slight turn on ice or off the path can be dangerous
3. Dress warm, not cool. It is better to dress in warm clothing and look silly than dress in fabric that isn't made for winter, running isn't a fashion statement.
4. Protect your feet and hands. Wearing any random pair of socks or gloves isn't going to cut it. Fleece gloves or insulated gloves work and thicker socks work on keeping your feet warm from cold temps on the ground level.
5. Carrying extra. To be safe, I always carry my cellphone, some extra cash and my ID on me because you may never know what may happen on your run.
6. Protection of your face and ears. When colder temps are amongst us, it is good to invest in a facemask and a stocking cap or sometimes at different stores, they have both built into one. Granted you may look like a person who is ready to rob a bank but at least you'll be warm. And if the police do get suspicious, hold your hands up in the air as they see you do not have a weapon on you and don't be afraid to show your face to them and smile. It lets them know you are friendly.
7. Stay visible. Wearing bright colors will let you be visible to those who are traveling in vehicles and at some retail stores, they do make clothing with reflectable tagging that reflects from the headlights of vehicles. Or some actually do make a vest or a strap to wrap around your arm, leg or head to reflect off of the headlights of vehicles too.
Some of these tips I have learned from running in a winter environment and I may look goofy but at least I am still alive today and safe. That is all that matters to me. I rather look silly than to be in a hospital or worse, dead.
I am sure I could think of more tips to add but I am sure I could ramble on that for hours. And for my fellow runners, I wish you a safe run and I hope you are doing great!
Any questions or comments, please feel free to publish or you can contact me by my emails: jturningheart@fortmandan.org or jeffylube40@hotmail.com and even leave a comment on the provided box at the end of this blog. I do reply and be willing to answer any questions or anything that you may have on your mind.
Thank you once again for tuning in for the newest blog of the Diary of a mad runner. And Fargo, ND, get ready because in 12 days, I will be ready.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Evolution of the mohawk and feeling better
Well, as days go by and having time to relax and heal up has been going on fine. Much better than I have been expecting. I am to the point where I still think about running and competing but not to the point where I actually go out and do it injured and end up being more injured than before. I just recap on previous races and get the general idea on my next race, which will be a 5k in Fargo, ND which is called the Jingle Bell Run for Arthritis.
Even though I am not able to compete at the Turkey Trot in Bismarck, ND on Thanksgiving, I am still saying my prayers for those runners to be safe and for them to get what they want out of the run. Much respect and gratitude for them.
Am I upset or even sad about not being able to compete on Thanksgiving? No, I am a little disappointed but I always tell myself, "There is always next year, the race isn't going away."
My foot pain and shoulder trouble have been feeling better and I am grateful for that. Just a few more days and I am able to start up jogging and finding my way back on the road to the upcoming race. I will be happy again when that happens.
And on a funny note, I was asked about why I have a mohawk when my tribe (Sioux) didn't have mohawks and what it is supposed to represent. To me, having a mohawk isn't just a tribal thing, it is a motivational tool because everyone has their own trademarks or something to give them that edge. The mohawk was just something I thought of last year for my dart team which I play on and it just stuck. When I didn't have the mohawk, I was always asked, "When will we see the mohawk again?" and As I grew it out and showcased it at some running events, people did enjoy it and did compliment me on it. Quite flattering really.
I am to the point where local kids here in Washburn, ND have started calling my hairstyle "Hawkness" which is a nice and fitting nickname. Even though my tribe never had mohawks during battles, this is a new age for everyone to be their own person but still holding onto their traditions and beliefs. I wear mine because I have my own personal battles and my hairstyle means I am ready to do battle, with anyone, anything, anywhere, and anytime. My other motto has always been, "Always give in but never give up" which states that what ever hurts you at that point, that negativity, use it for you own motivation to push forward, to push past everything that is beating you down and stand your ground. Just never give up, on yourself and what you stand for.
My previous blog was on motivation, this one is more based on not only a hairstyle of my personal being but it is also on the evolution of the soul of a person.
My family has shown me a route where you carry your heart on your sleeve and my traditions has taught me to respect others and myself and be generous with whom you meet. Those characteristics I carry with me on a daily basis because we all have one life to live but have we really lived it the way we are supposed to? A question we could ask ourselves from time to time.
As I could down the days to get back out on the road, the running paths, the cold, frigid winter weather, I am more excited. I am being patient but inside, I am excited because of my passion. You could probably harness my energy and adrenaline in a bottle and it could generate a city because I feel this and I live it. I feel like I have lightning in a bottle and the containment isn't enough. That when you are running in front of a crowd of 100 people that sound more like 10,000, the adrenaline pushes you to the point where you don't feel pain or aches or much of anything when you are running.
Even though I forgot to mention one more motivation that keeps me going on different levels and I forgot to mention this because my mind was on different directions but I will acknowledge one more importance and that is the one and only, God.
Without my faith in God, Jesus and the teachings of faith and humanity, I would not be able to accept and love the second chance I have been given. And I am thankful for all.
My faith can never be broken or destroyed because of that strong bond with Jesus and with God. And what people don't know is that before every race, I do read a scripture from the Bible and I focus on that and write it down on a piece of paper and place it in my show to give me that extra step.
If you ever want a great song that has been an awesome workout song that is a Christian Rock song is "On My Own" by Ashes Remain. Which is relating that every battle we all have, we are not in it alone. That God is always behind us, as well as Jesus. Pure passion meets pure beliefs. Blessed be to those who are finding themselves.
Once again, thank you for reading this ongoing blog, and as I start up with workouts, training and upcoming races, I will keep you all informed and post pictures of the process. I wish you all a great day and enjoy it!
Even though I am not able to compete at the Turkey Trot in Bismarck, ND on Thanksgiving, I am still saying my prayers for those runners to be safe and for them to get what they want out of the run. Much respect and gratitude for them.
Am I upset or even sad about not being able to compete on Thanksgiving? No, I am a little disappointed but I always tell myself, "There is always next year, the race isn't going away."
My foot pain and shoulder trouble have been feeling better and I am grateful for that. Just a few more days and I am able to start up jogging and finding my way back on the road to the upcoming race. I will be happy again when that happens.
And on a funny note, I was asked about why I have a mohawk when my tribe (Sioux) didn't have mohawks and what it is supposed to represent. To me, having a mohawk isn't just a tribal thing, it is a motivational tool because everyone has their own trademarks or something to give them that edge. The mohawk was just something I thought of last year for my dart team which I play on and it just stuck. When I didn't have the mohawk, I was always asked, "When will we see the mohawk again?" and As I grew it out and showcased it at some running events, people did enjoy it and did compliment me on it. Quite flattering really.
I am to the point where local kids here in Washburn, ND have started calling my hairstyle "Hawkness" which is a nice and fitting nickname. Even though my tribe never had mohawks during battles, this is a new age for everyone to be their own person but still holding onto their traditions and beliefs. I wear mine because I have my own personal battles and my hairstyle means I am ready to do battle, with anyone, anything, anywhere, and anytime. My other motto has always been, "Always give in but never give up" which states that what ever hurts you at that point, that negativity, use it for you own motivation to push forward, to push past everything that is beating you down and stand your ground. Just never give up, on yourself and what you stand for.
My previous blog was on motivation, this one is more based on not only a hairstyle of my personal being but it is also on the evolution of the soul of a person.
My family has shown me a route where you carry your heart on your sleeve and my traditions has taught me to respect others and myself and be generous with whom you meet. Those characteristics I carry with me on a daily basis because we all have one life to live but have we really lived it the way we are supposed to? A question we could ask ourselves from time to time.
As I could down the days to get back out on the road, the running paths, the cold, frigid winter weather, I am more excited. I am being patient but inside, I am excited because of my passion. You could probably harness my energy and adrenaline in a bottle and it could generate a city because I feel this and I live it. I feel like I have lightning in a bottle and the containment isn't enough. That when you are running in front of a crowd of 100 people that sound more like 10,000, the adrenaline pushes you to the point where you don't feel pain or aches or much of anything when you are running.
Even though I forgot to mention one more motivation that keeps me going on different levels and I forgot to mention this because my mind was on different directions but I will acknowledge one more importance and that is the one and only, God.
Without my faith in God, Jesus and the teachings of faith and humanity, I would not be able to accept and love the second chance I have been given. And I am thankful for all.
My faith can never be broken or destroyed because of that strong bond with Jesus and with God. And what people don't know is that before every race, I do read a scripture from the Bible and I focus on that and write it down on a piece of paper and place it in my show to give me that extra step.
If you ever want a great song that has been an awesome workout song that is a Christian Rock song is "On My Own" by Ashes Remain. Which is relating that every battle we all have, we are not in it alone. That God is always behind us, as well as Jesus. Pure passion meets pure beliefs. Blessed be to those who are finding themselves.
Once again, thank you for reading this ongoing blog, and as I start up with workouts, training and upcoming races, I will keep you all informed and post pictures of the process. I wish you all a great day and enjoy it!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
My motivation and focus
From my rise to my falls, my motivation for running, racing or working out has always been my family, both immediate or adoptive, my friends, my community and most of all, the people who I represent at each run, those who deal with everyday struggles.
After getting to know a few people who have to deal with something that is making them take a second look on life, it makes me feel like whatever I went through, they go through hard or maybe even harder. But if I can make them smile or be proud for knowing that someone like me, a kid from the reservation could make them happy for one race, for one day, it is worth it all. Every mile, every drop of sweat, every sore muscle, just....everything.
To me, everyday is a given but at times, I always have that feeling like I have been running on borrowed time which means that there are days where I do not believe that I can still do this, after everything, the surgeries, the limitations.
As of late, I have some friends who have been discussing with me that they think I have been doing all of this, the charity work and running for them, which is 80% true because without them as motivation, I would not be able to do this. But deep beneath all that, I also do this for myself. Running has always been my form of therapy and I have been doing it for 15 years and still going. And just like any other runner, I've had my good days and I have always had my bad days. Nothing is ever just perfect, you make due with what you are given.
When I was getting ready for the half marathon back in September this year (insert flashback sequence), I met those who were survivors of suicide and I have met those who lost someone to suicide and the stories and the emotions put me in a place where I knew that someone had to take a stand, whether that person was me or not, it wasn't my place to judge. But I wanted to take a stand of my own to prove that no matter how much ugly there is in this world at times, it still can be beautiful. Just like everyone.
With my mother, she has always been my number 1 fan since I was a kid, from playing little league to cross country and track events, she was always there when I needed it. Even when I had a rough day at practice or at a meet, she was always there to say, "you did your best and I am very proud." For her and the rest of my family members, I was blessed at a young age and still am, because of them.
My adopted parents who I became a part of a few years back because of a wonderful young woman who I respect and very proud of, they have always been there for me as well. My adopted mother, Barbara has been my shoulder to lean on and has always been a great lending voice to listen to. As for my adopted father, Steven, he has been my idol and role model because of his major role as a husband, a father, a brother, a son and most of all, a great friend. He and I get together a lot and I have been so blessed for him and my adopted mother because without them, I wouldn't be much of a strong force today. Even with their daughters who are a part of me, Marnie, Megan, and Morgan, they remind me of my 3 sisters I have back at home, each one so different but with great hearts.
My friends who are nearby and some far away, we've all had our great times together and continue to make more. Even at my worst days, they bring me up to a level where I smile and have a great sense of pride in myself. With the current family I hang out with, the Johnsons and the Meadows combined have been some good times with our laughter and joking. Since I moved to Washburn, I was more of a loner because all I did was work and run. And as soon as I met a guy who I have considered to be one of my best friends, he amazed me when he stepped up to the father and husband role and did it in an awesome way. After hanging out with him, he got me introduced to a kid who has become like a little brother to me and like I said, let the good times roll with all of us. They are great people who motivate me.
Everyone has played a huge role in my life and when I run, I run for them as well because without the engine parts, this train isn't going anywhere but the station.
My philosophy has been that those who make you whole are those you want around in your life because they are your foundation.
Again, this is another wordy blog and I hope none of you have fallen asleep by my ramble, I just thought I would pay some respects to those who help get me this far and for those of you who I have missed, I apologize but you are in my heart and in my muscles. And I am pulling a Jerry Maguire moment here but You....Complete.....Me. Insert tear drop here :)
I wish you all a great day and I hope you can look around you and appreciate those who motivate you in any different way.
After getting to know a few people who have to deal with something that is making them take a second look on life, it makes me feel like whatever I went through, they go through hard or maybe even harder. But if I can make them smile or be proud for knowing that someone like me, a kid from the reservation could make them happy for one race, for one day, it is worth it all. Every mile, every drop of sweat, every sore muscle, just....everything.
To me, everyday is a given but at times, I always have that feeling like I have been running on borrowed time which means that there are days where I do not believe that I can still do this, after everything, the surgeries, the limitations.
As of late, I have some friends who have been discussing with me that they think I have been doing all of this, the charity work and running for them, which is 80% true because without them as motivation, I would not be able to do this. But deep beneath all that, I also do this for myself. Running has always been my form of therapy and I have been doing it for 15 years and still going. And just like any other runner, I've had my good days and I have always had my bad days. Nothing is ever just perfect, you make due with what you are given.
When I was getting ready for the half marathon back in September this year (insert flashback sequence), I met those who were survivors of suicide and I have met those who lost someone to suicide and the stories and the emotions put me in a place where I knew that someone had to take a stand, whether that person was me or not, it wasn't my place to judge. But I wanted to take a stand of my own to prove that no matter how much ugly there is in this world at times, it still can be beautiful. Just like everyone.
With my mother, she has always been my number 1 fan since I was a kid, from playing little league to cross country and track events, she was always there when I needed it. Even when I had a rough day at practice or at a meet, she was always there to say, "you did your best and I am very proud." For her and the rest of my family members, I was blessed at a young age and still am, because of them.
My adopted parents who I became a part of a few years back because of a wonderful young woman who I respect and very proud of, they have always been there for me as well. My adopted mother, Barbara has been my shoulder to lean on and has always been a great lending voice to listen to. As for my adopted father, Steven, he has been my idol and role model because of his major role as a husband, a father, a brother, a son and most of all, a great friend. He and I get together a lot and I have been so blessed for him and my adopted mother because without them, I wouldn't be much of a strong force today. Even with their daughters who are a part of me, Marnie, Megan, and Morgan, they remind me of my 3 sisters I have back at home, each one so different but with great hearts.
My friends who are nearby and some far away, we've all had our great times together and continue to make more. Even at my worst days, they bring me up to a level where I smile and have a great sense of pride in myself. With the current family I hang out with, the Johnsons and the Meadows combined have been some good times with our laughter and joking. Since I moved to Washburn, I was more of a loner because all I did was work and run. And as soon as I met a guy who I have considered to be one of my best friends, he amazed me when he stepped up to the father and husband role and did it in an awesome way. After hanging out with him, he got me introduced to a kid who has become like a little brother to me and like I said, let the good times roll with all of us. They are great people who motivate me.
Everyone has played a huge role in my life and when I run, I run for them as well because without the engine parts, this train isn't going anywhere but the station.
My philosophy has been that those who make you whole are those you want around in your life because they are your foundation.
Again, this is another wordy blog and I hope none of you have fallen asleep by my ramble, I just thought I would pay some respects to those who help get me this far and for those of you who I have missed, I apologize but you are in my heart and in my muscles. And I am pulling a Jerry Maguire moment here but You....Complete.....Me. Insert tear drop here :)
I wish you all a great day and I hope you can look around you and appreciate those who motivate you in any different way.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Welcome all
Greetings to everyone who reads this blog,
My name is Jeff Turning Heart Jr., and I have created this blog to keep friends and many others up to date with my training, my running and my upcoming races that are for charities.
The idea started when I was approached by many on how I train and what it is like with ideas and thoughts brewing through my mind before race day. And this blog is going to keep those entertained and hopefully inspires many to enjoy life the way they should, on their own terms.
And with today on how I now have some "down" time because of a different series of injuries have left me sidelined for a few days has given me time to work on my game plan for recovery and my return back to running.
For those who are just tuning in, I would like to explain these injuries I now have been dealing with. With my shoulder and neck have been off and on for the past few years. Back in 2007, I suffered a neck situation where a benign tumor was taken out of my neck and some tissue resurfaced again in the summer of 2010 and after the last surgery, I lost any free range strength and motion of my arm and quite frankly, my left arm was paralyzed for over 90 minutes. After many different options, my fingers started twitching and regain some life in my arm but not the full 100% .
After a few months or rehabilitation on my arm and movement, my left arm still had nerve damage and couldn't feel anything but I kept on going, even when a part of me thought it was a losing cause.
When it was almost 9 months later and I started back with running and workout again, it was not just clicking with me anymore, I felt like I was done and I was ready to deal with that. But out of the blue, I started feeling something inside me, like an unexplainable force that drove me to keep going and in June of 2011, I started training and I got ready for the 4.2 mile Coulee Trail Run here in Washburn, ND during the Lewis and Clark Days celebration and I ran it and never gave up. After feeling better from that, I started to train more for the 5k run in Underwood, ND for the Harvest Festival celebration and I finished 3rd and that felt great.
After this feeling invincible part of my return, I lost a friend who committed suicide and it rocked my world and it was during my 5k training for the previous race in Underwood for Harvest Fest and immediately I got the question, "When is your next race? Have you thought about the Bismarck Marathon or half marathon?" and I did. I started to think about it constantly and thought it would be a great challenge, one that I desperately needed.
When it came down to the decision to run the half marathon in Bismarck in September of 2011, I thought that this needed something, more of a drive and a meaning to do this. After checking out the website of registration, I seen the link "charities" and I clicked on one but even though they were good charities to be a part of, but nothing clicked just yet. And after losing a friend to suicide, I then wanted to be a part of anything that helps with awareness or prevention, I was game for it. And after a week of deciding how to approach this, I then called the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and they helped me create a Donor's Wall, where many people can pledge donations to my charity and to the foundation and my initial goal was going to be easy and small, being how it was my first charity event, the amount was $250.00 and that got me started.
With the initial idea on what I was running and representing for the upcoming race, I went right into training for the half marathon and I followed my own type of training and started progressing from running from 35 miles to 56 miles a week. A great motivation was reaching out to many of those who have been affected by losing a loved one to suicide and in some way, it helped heal me from losing my friend.
As the training went on, I started to feel the drive, my passion for doing this race. For once, it wasn't about me, it wasn't about running for a trophy or a title or anything in that nature, it was for the people who deserve it, the people I represented. And there were no pressure intended for me.
When it came down to the week before the race, I went through my week of hell where in 6 days, I averaged 63.5 miles which was unheard of because of my recent battles. And I remember the night before the race, I prepared with a light workout at Gold's Gym and ate a good meal and focused on my race, on my pace time and on my strategy. And after talking to a friend who said she believed in me and that I could do this, it gave me more drive.
Then on race day, at 5:30 a.m., I got up and started to stretch and focus my mind on the run and tell myself what this is for and what I need to do, which was, man up, be the miracle for many. And by 6:45 a.m. was spent with talking to my friends Nick and Tomi, we were in the dark morning, feeling the mist upon us and just knowing that no matter what, we are still running and from as far as the eye could see, runners were pouring in and it made me feel comforted to see so many. To be amongst many who share the same passion as I do and to meet new people was a treat because I met a wise and gentle man who was 76 years old and was racing his last marathon and he has been doing this over 50 years. It was beyond amazing, a loss for words.
At 7:30 a.m. the starting gun goes off and my heart was pounding as we were on our first mile and as I kept my pace and made my way through the pack, I started to feel myself more motivated to keep going and as I made it up the rather large hill by the University of Mary (my old colldge stomping grounds) I found my friend who I talked to the night before on the phone and out of everyone, I seen her and it drove me more because I needed that support and that smile to keep on moving.
Between the 11 and 12 mile marker, my left leg started to cramp up and I took a few moments to relax my leg and keep on going, only 1.5 miles left to go until my challege was done. After I seen the finish line, I kicked it in high gear and after hearing my name being announced by the guy on the PA system, I felt this adrenaline kick in and I finished like I wanted, strong and proud. I looked up to the sky to feel my friend's smile upon me and many others too. My test and challenge was done but not over with. I wanted to do more.
After the half marathon was done, I felt like I could do this more, run half marathons for charities and started my own campaign and got an idea on which races I wanted to do and my charities. In the upcoming 2012 races, I have signed on to 8 charities and I now call it the "Hope and Faith Tour" which will be 2 races in Chicago, Illinois in June and October and then Fargo, ND and Bismarck, ND in May and September. And my mission has been growing, with meeting new people and that is why this blog was created, to share my road to the upcoming races in 2012.
Until recent, my running was good as I ran an 8k for Breast Cancer Awareness but was hit hard with a sinus infection and then a heart murmur where constant pain was a new thing to deal with in my chest. But my goal for that race was running an 8k in 40 minutes and was proud that I finished in 38:52. A personal best.
And then in October, I lost my best friend who was my coworker and my mentor at the job I have enjoyed and loved when I started over 7 years ago. That man meant a lot to me because of what he had taught me, in the work field and outside of work. He took me in as a friend who shared a passion for history and to hear him speak was like listening to a book being read to you, with his knowledge, he was my index.
My heart started to hurt more, because not many would know how I feel everyday he is gone. He may be gone physically but not mentally and some days are fine because I remember all the smiles and fun times we have shared but then there are some days where I don't feel like facing the world or anyone but I know he would want me to move on and there will be a day where I will. It just comes and goes for now.
On Wednesday, November 9th, I hurt my foot and felt a tear or a pull in my muscle and then this past Sunday, November 13th, I strained my shoulder with a slight pull to the muscle. And after discussing with my doctors that it would be wise of me to take some time off to recover, mentally and physically. With my upcoming race on Thanksgiving, the 10k for Cystic Fibrosis has been removed from my running calendar of events but still looking at the 5k race in Fargo, ND on December 3rd for Arthritis.
I may take some much needed time off but I will be back. It is why we call it a set back, so that the come back will be stronger.
In ending of this blog, I hope I did not get too wordy with you and I thank you for your patience and time to read this never ending blog but I invite you to keep reading on what is coming and what is in store for the Diary of a mad runner.
My name is Jeff Turning Heart Jr., and I have created this blog to keep friends and many others up to date with my training, my running and my upcoming races that are for charities.
The idea started when I was approached by many on how I train and what it is like with ideas and thoughts brewing through my mind before race day. And this blog is going to keep those entertained and hopefully inspires many to enjoy life the way they should, on their own terms.
And with today on how I now have some "down" time because of a different series of injuries have left me sidelined for a few days has given me time to work on my game plan for recovery and my return back to running.
For those who are just tuning in, I would like to explain these injuries I now have been dealing with. With my shoulder and neck have been off and on for the past few years. Back in 2007, I suffered a neck situation where a benign tumor was taken out of my neck and some tissue resurfaced again in the summer of 2010 and after the last surgery, I lost any free range strength and motion of my arm and quite frankly, my left arm was paralyzed for over 90 minutes. After many different options, my fingers started twitching and regain some life in my arm but not the full 100% .
After a few months or rehabilitation on my arm and movement, my left arm still had nerve damage and couldn't feel anything but I kept on going, even when a part of me thought it was a losing cause.
When it was almost 9 months later and I started back with running and workout again, it was not just clicking with me anymore, I felt like I was done and I was ready to deal with that. But out of the blue, I started feeling something inside me, like an unexplainable force that drove me to keep going and in June of 2011, I started training and I got ready for the 4.2 mile Coulee Trail Run here in Washburn, ND during the Lewis and Clark Days celebration and I ran it and never gave up. After feeling better from that, I started to train more for the 5k run in Underwood, ND for the Harvest Festival celebration and I finished 3rd and that felt great.
After this feeling invincible part of my return, I lost a friend who committed suicide and it rocked my world and it was during my 5k training for the previous race in Underwood for Harvest Fest and immediately I got the question, "When is your next race? Have you thought about the Bismarck Marathon or half marathon?" and I did. I started to think about it constantly and thought it would be a great challenge, one that I desperately needed.
When it came down to the decision to run the half marathon in Bismarck in September of 2011, I thought that this needed something, more of a drive and a meaning to do this. After checking out the website of registration, I seen the link "charities" and I clicked on one but even though they were good charities to be a part of, but nothing clicked just yet. And after losing a friend to suicide, I then wanted to be a part of anything that helps with awareness or prevention, I was game for it. And after a week of deciding how to approach this, I then called the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and they helped me create a Donor's Wall, where many people can pledge donations to my charity and to the foundation and my initial goal was going to be easy and small, being how it was my first charity event, the amount was $250.00 and that got me started.
With the initial idea on what I was running and representing for the upcoming race, I went right into training for the half marathon and I followed my own type of training and started progressing from running from 35 miles to 56 miles a week. A great motivation was reaching out to many of those who have been affected by losing a loved one to suicide and in some way, it helped heal me from losing my friend.
As the training went on, I started to feel the drive, my passion for doing this race. For once, it wasn't about me, it wasn't about running for a trophy or a title or anything in that nature, it was for the people who deserve it, the people I represented. And there were no pressure intended for me.
When it came down to the week before the race, I went through my week of hell where in 6 days, I averaged 63.5 miles which was unheard of because of my recent battles. And I remember the night before the race, I prepared with a light workout at Gold's Gym and ate a good meal and focused on my race, on my pace time and on my strategy. And after talking to a friend who said she believed in me and that I could do this, it gave me more drive.
Then on race day, at 5:30 a.m., I got up and started to stretch and focus my mind on the run and tell myself what this is for and what I need to do, which was, man up, be the miracle for many. And by 6:45 a.m. was spent with talking to my friends Nick and Tomi, we were in the dark morning, feeling the mist upon us and just knowing that no matter what, we are still running and from as far as the eye could see, runners were pouring in and it made me feel comforted to see so many. To be amongst many who share the same passion as I do and to meet new people was a treat because I met a wise and gentle man who was 76 years old and was racing his last marathon and he has been doing this over 50 years. It was beyond amazing, a loss for words.
At 7:30 a.m. the starting gun goes off and my heart was pounding as we were on our first mile and as I kept my pace and made my way through the pack, I started to feel myself more motivated to keep going and as I made it up the rather large hill by the University of Mary (my old colldge stomping grounds) I found my friend who I talked to the night before on the phone and out of everyone, I seen her and it drove me more because I needed that support and that smile to keep on moving.
Between the 11 and 12 mile marker, my left leg started to cramp up and I took a few moments to relax my leg and keep on going, only 1.5 miles left to go until my challege was done. After I seen the finish line, I kicked it in high gear and after hearing my name being announced by the guy on the PA system, I felt this adrenaline kick in and I finished like I wanted, strong and proud. I looked up to the sky to feel my friend's smile upon me and many others too. My test and challenge was done but not over with. I wanted to do more.
After the half marathon was done, I felt like I could do this more, run half marathons for charities and started my own campaign and got an idea on which races I wanted to do and my charities. In the upcoming 2012 races, I have signed on to 8 charities and I now call it the "Hope and Faith Tour" which will be 2 races in Chicago, Illinois in June and October and then Fargo, ND and Bismarck, ND in May and September. And my mission has been growing, with meeting new people and that is why this blog was created, to share my road to the upcoming races in 2012.
Until recent, my running was good as I ran an 8k for Breast Cancer Awareness but was hit hard with a sinus infection and then a heart murmur where constant pain was a new thing to deal with in my chest. But my goal for that race was running an 8k in 40 minutes and was proud that I finished in 38:52. A personal best.
And then in October, I lost my best friend who was my coworker and my mentor at the job I have enjoyed and loved when I started over 7 years ago. That man meant a lot to me because of what he had taught me, in the work field and outside of work. He took me in as a friend who shared a passion for history and to hear him speak was like listening to a book being read to you, with his knowledge, he was my index.
My heart started to hurt more, because not many would know how I feel everyday he is gone. He may be gone physically but not mentally and some days are fine because I remember all the smiles and fun times we have shared but then there are some days where I don't feel like facing the world or anyone but I know he would want me to move on and there will be a day where I will. It just comes and goes for now.
On Wednesday, November 9th, I hurt my foot and felt a tear or a pull in my muscle and then this past Sunday, November 13th, I strained my shoulder with a slight pull to the muscle. And after discussing with my doctors that it would be wise of me to take some time off to recover, mentally and physically. With my upcoming race on Thanksgiving, the 10k for Cystic Fibrosis has been removed from my running calendar of events but still looking at the 5k race in Fargo, ND on December 3rd for Arthritis.
I may take some much needed time off but I will be back. It is why we call it a set back, so that the come back will be stronger.
In ending of this blog, I hope I did not get too wordy with you and I thank you for your patience and time to read this never ending blog but I invite you to keep reading on what is coming and what is in store for the Diary of a mad runner.
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