Adventures in NYC - Part 2 - What Are The Odds?

                                                                                                 When I woke up last Saturday morning I felt like a kid at Christmas. I was going to see "Hamilton" for the 2nd time from Row B, Center Orchestra. When I bought the tickets, I had no idea that Christopher Jackson was going to reprise his role as General George Washington. I'd been listening to different episodes of The Hamilcast in the weeks leading up to our trip. I connected with Lexi Garcia Toye on Instagram after hearing her incredible Hamilton journey. She is on tour. I was planning to send her a photo of Tom and me in front of the marquee. A joy shared is a joy multiplied. Little did I know how much joy we would be sharing Saturday night. Tom and I debated about how we should organize our day. Go to Junior's for a pre-theater lunch and then take our photos at the Rodgers OR go to the Rodgers first and then grab a bite to eat. We decided to take our photos first since I was so excited and eager to get to the theater. 

I read "Life at Hamilton" by Mike Anthony in May of 2022 and connected with Mike on social media. I listened to his episodes on The Hamilcast. After getting our tickets in May, I sent him a FB message since he was posting about Hamilton happenings. I reminded him of the book review I wrote for his book, "Love, Dad..How my father died and told me he didn't," and shared with him the life changing experience I had at Hamilton in April. I let him know we were planning to return in September. He responded with: "Hello, Mary!!! Thank you so much for taking the time to do this!!!🥰🥰🥰
I’m so glad you made it to the show, and that it had the impact it did. If you do come back in September, I hope to see you there!" A week before the show, Mike had posted about a 9 year old girl who was sobbing at the show saying how much she loves the show and how important it is to hold onto those kinds of moments. I commented on his post and asked if he'd be at the 9/19 matinee. We all know how quickly social media can move and how easy it is to miss a comment. He didn't respond. 

With "Life at Hamilton" in hand and a bottle of water to keep us hydrated as we walked to the theater, Tom and I headed to the Rodgers. Before we left, I'd asked Tom if he should bring a sweater. Once we got to the street, he realized it was cooler than he thought so he went back to the room to get one. I patiently waited downstairs. I felt as though I could have skipped to the theater.

We took our photos:

 

                            

Tom was inspired to place the "Life at Hamilton" book and our water at the stage door. Just as I was about to take the photo, we heard, "You better hope nobody comes out of that door." I got flustered and said, "Oh I'll hurry up." (See photo above that's a bit blurry because I took it so quickly.) He laughed. "No don't worry about it," he said. "You here to see the show?" "Yes we are and we are so excited." "How many times have you seen it?" "2," I replied. "You here for the matinee?" "Yes," I answered and we are planning to get a bite at Junior's. In one swift movement, he took out his key card, unlocked the stage door and said, "Follow me."

The next thing we knew we were going backstage! 

                                                                                          Jimmy Russell, aka Stage Door Jimmy, called out from his office, "Hey why is she shaking?" Our escort said, "Don't worry about it Jimmy. They are with me. They are my cousins from Boston." {Tom was wearing his Red Sox hat.} Our escort told me to watch myself on the stairs. He said that he was going to take us on a backstage tour and take photos of us on the stage. We learned that his name is Bobby and he operates the turntables from his perch "way up there," as he explained it. Through a google search, I found out that his full name is  Bobby Hentze. He serves as the Automation Operator for the production at the Richard Rodgers Theatre. From his console located up on the fly floor, he precisely controls the show's complex dual-revolving stage system, managing the speed and directions of the concentric rings that bring the musical's choreography to life. He said we could take whatever photos and videos we would like and share them. "We love doing this," he said and talked about how they will spot different people at the stage door, usually children and invite them to come backstage.

He didn't ask me about my tremors which had gotten noticeably intense given the emotions I was feeling but I shared with him my journey with polio and Post-Polio Syndrome. "You are quite remarkable," he said. He took us to the wardrobe and prop room. We were so in awe of what we were seeing that we didn't take photos of the wardrobe and prop room but here are the photos Bobby and Tom took:

 

We talked as though we had been lifelong friends about all things Hamilton and our lives. He showed us the wardrobe and prop room as our jaws were wide open in awe of seeing this glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes.

 "Well," Bobby said. "We better get you over to Junior's." As I navigated the steep and narrow stairs, Bobby would make suggestions of where I could hold on and kept reminding me to be careful. "Let me walk out with you. I'll show you the alley to get to Junior's." We kept expressing our deepest heartfelt gratitude as we walked. "We love doing this," he said. "This is what Hamilton is all about!" 

"Now. There is going to be a long line when you get back to the theater around noon. I don't want you to have to stand in line. So just go up to whoever is at the front of the line and explain your condition. If there's any problem, just tell them Bobby told you to let them know you shouldn't have to wait in line." We hugged as we said a tear filled goodbye and grabbed a quick bite at Junior's.

Just as Bobby predicted, there was a long queue of theater goers eager to get into the theater. We approached security and told them that Bobby suggested we let them know that I have a neurological condition and should not have to stand in line. "Oh we know Bobby. He's been here awhile. Well it's too early to go in but ..." he swung open the theater doors and opened up a folding chair for me to sit in while we waited for the doors to open! 

Since we were among the first to enter the lobby, I was able to ask one of the people selling merch if Mike Anthony was working. "Gee I don't know. Where does he work?" "He's the bar manager," I replied. "Well the bar is over there." My heart skipped a beat when I saw Mike Anthony in 3D.

I introduced myself. "I'm so sorry I didn't answer you on Facebook," Mike said. "Oh don't worry about it," I replied. This just adds to the magic of it all. I told him that because we took the photo with his book we met Bobby and got to go back stage! He was so happy for me. I asked him if he would sign my book. He took out a sharpie from his drawer, stepped to the side, signed it. "Come see me at intermission," he said as he handed it back to me. I was seeing "Life at Hamilton" in action!

                                                                                         Yo Yo Yo what time is it? Showtime! IYKYK

To be continued....

In health and wellness,

Mary

Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My Trilogy of Transformation chronicles my journey from having been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair with the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine standards to a woman transformed through the sport of running. Take a journey into a world of healing, hope and possibilities with my 7 books, available on Amazon. My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club and Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reading for Every Runner. You will be inspired by my strength, courage, resilience, determination and overcoming the inevitable setbacks that come with a journey to health and wellness. 

What if the key to overcoming life's greatest challenges lies in the melodies that resonate with our souls? Join us in this heartfelt episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast, where hosts Lynn Hoffman and Buzz Knight dive deep into the transformative power of music with our inaugural contest winner, Mary McManus. Mary’s journey is a testament to the healing power of music, as she shares her inspiring story of resilience after contracting paralytic polio at a young age and navigating a tumultuous family environment. Listen to the episode by following this link.

Through her narrative, Mary McManus reveals how music became her sanctuary. A pivotal moment in her life came when her cousin, a Broadway producer, introduced her to the world of musical theater—a vibrant escape that ignited her passion and brought her immense joy. This episode explores the profound connection between music and emotional healing, showcasing how Mary McManus found solace in melodies during her toughest times and how they helped her forge connections with others

Listeners will be moved by Mary’s reflections on the influence of her high school music teacher and the supportive community she discovered in orchestral music. These experiences highlight the essence of music as therapy, illustrating its role in fostering emotional well-being and resilience. Mary’s journey culminates in her remarkable achievement of running the Boston Marathon, a testament to her indomitable spirit and the impact of music in her life.

Throughout this episode, we delve into the broader themes of music and mental health, exploring how independent musicians can harness their art to inspire and uplift. Mary’s story is not just about personal struggles; it’s a celebration of the healing power of music and its ability to connect us all. From emotional healing through music to the stories of musicians who have shaped our lives, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone seeking inspiration.

 Join us as we uncover the magic of music and its role in personal stories of triumph. Whether you’re a fan of the music history podcast genre or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast promises to resonate deeply. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of finding your voice and the transformative nature of music in navigating life's adversities. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt journey with Mary McManus, where we celebrate the stories that remind us all of the profound impact music has on our lives.

 Last year I was the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

 

Reach out to me at maryamcmanus@gmail.com if you'd like me to speak to your organization or group to inspire them with what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary; how one finds strength, resilience and determination in the face of seemingly impossible odds.

                                                                                  

 

Happy Global Running Day 2026!

 

On Wednesday, Tom and I celebrated Global Running Day with magical magnificent early morning miles. It had been a year since we set the alarm to 6:00am to embrace the start of a new day with morning miles. We had absolutely perfect weather for before breakfast morning miles. I said to Tom that I felt in every step I was saying to my body, "I love you." For years I felt as though my body were something I lugged around. Childhood paralytic polio and trauma left their mark. BUT after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006, when I was told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and expect an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged, I went on a quest to heal my life.

I tapped into Source as my pen became my divining rod for healing writing poetry that opened the portal to discovering the treasure of who I was always meant to be. I unleashed the power of self-love. 

Early morning runs on a perfect weather day is heaven on Earth. My heart overflows with gratitude for the gift of running in my life. 

If you would have seen me 19 years ago in a toe-up leg brace, using a cane at times for mobility and not being able to get off of the couch or toilet seat without assistance, needing a tub bench when taking a shower because of fatigue and unsteadiness on my feet, and having difficulty climbing the stairs in my house you would have said there's no way that woman is going to run the 2009 Boston Marathon and go on to have many adventures as a most unlikely runner.

But that's exactly what happened!

These days, Tom and I are running just for the health of it after a very rigorous and intense training cycle on the road to the Hyannis 10K in March. There are miles filled with smiles and joy. Last Saturday's weather was unseasonably raw and cold. One of the luxuries of not having a training schedule is it's easy to shuffle our running and strength training days. We got in a work out on Saturday with a rigorous deep cleaning of our home. On Sunday, we enjoyed an easy few miles gearing up for Wednesday's celebration of Global Running Day. Mondays are for strength training and I enjoyed reflecting on this Walt Disney quote:

And you know what? Transformation is not a once and done experience. In 2021/2022 I had a major setback in my healing  from childhood paralytic polio and trauma after an adverse reaction to the 2nd COVID vaccine. 

I needed to continue to harness the power of the mind/body connection through visualization, double down on my self-care routine and remind myself of all the healing that went before. It took time to get back on the roads. I cannot imagine my life without running whatever the pace and whatever the distance. 

 

 

This year's Global Running Day celebration was especially sweet celebrating 19 years since I took a leap of faith leaving behind my award-winning social work career on 5/25 to heal my life. The only goal Tom and I shared was to savor the time together unplugged in Nature on a picture perfect weather day.  

I'm excited to resume early morning summer runs needing only a t-shirt or singlet and shorts to head out the door. I'm delighted with feeling strong and healthy as all the 'niggles' from that training cycle continue to heal. It was great run to pass runners and say with a big smile, "Happy Global Running Day!" "You too," they'd respond with smiles reflecting back to me the joy I felt in my heart and soul.

 

 

 

In health and wellness,

Mary

Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My Trilogy of Transformation chronicles my journey from having been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair with the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine standards to a woman transformed through the sport of running. Take a journey into a world of healing, hope and possibilities with my 7 books, available on Amazon. My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club and Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reading for Every Runner. You will be inspired by my strength, courage, resilience, determination and overcoming the inevitable setbacks that come with a journey to health and wellness. 

What if the key to overcoming life's greatest challenges lies in the melodies that resonate with our souls? Join us in this heartfelt episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast, where hosts Lynn Hoffman and Buzz Knight dive deep into the transformative power of music with our inaugural contest winner, Mary McManus. Mary’s journey is a testament to the healing power of music, as she shares her inspiring story of resilience after contracting paralytic polio at a young age and navigating a tumultuous family environment. Listen to the episode by following this link.

Through her narrative, Mary McManus reveals how music became her sanctuary. A pivotal moment in her life came when her cousin, a Broadway producer, introduced her to the world of musical theater—a vibrant escape that ignited her passion and brought her immense joy. This episode explores the profound connection between music and emotional healing, showcasing how Mary McManus found solace in melodies during her toughest times and how they helped her forge connections with others

Listeners will be moved by Mary’s reflections on the influence of her high school music teacher and the supportive community she discovered in orchestral music. These experiences highlight the essence of music as therapy, illustrating its role in fostering emotional well-being and resilience. Mary’s journey culminates in her remarkable achievement of running the Boston Marathon, a testament to her indomitable spirit and the impact of music in her life.

Throughout this episode, we delve into the broader themes of music and mental health, exploring how independent musicians can harness their art to inspire and uplift. Mary’s story is not just about personal struggles; it’s a celebration of the healing power of music and its ability to connect us all. From emotional healing through music to the stories of musicians who have shaped our lives, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone seeking inspiration.

 Join us as we uncover the magic of music and its role in personal stories of triumph. Whether you’re a fan of the music history podcast genre or simply looking for a dose of motivation, this episode of the Music Saved Me Podcast promises to resonate deeply. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of finding your voice and the transformative nature of music in navigating life's adversities. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt journey with Mary McManus, where we celebrate the stories that remind us all of the profound impact music has on our lives.

 Last year I was the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

 

Reach out to me at maryamcmanus@gmail.com if you'd like me to speak to your organization or group to inspire them with what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary; how one finds strength, resilience and determination in the face of seemingly impossible odds.

 

 

This Week in Training: Magic and Mystery

 

This week's theme for training on the Road to Hyannis Marathon Weekend 10K is magic and mystery. I was thinking back to how bold it was of me to declare in February of 2008 that my next health and fitness goal with my personal trainer was to run the 2009 Boston Marathon. I was still wearing a toe-up leg brace and had never run a day in my life. In December of 2006, I was given the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome and was told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, expecting an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged. What a magnificent mystery that, in February of 2007, I got still and asked for Divine Guidance vowing to not take the diagnosis sitting down. The poem, "Running the Race" flowed out of me foreshadowing my 2009 Boston Marathon run! An anthology of poems followed harnessing the power of the mind/body connection inspiring healing in the wake of childhood paralytic polio and trauma. While there is a plethora of research showing the power of the mind/body connection, the science that explains the phenomena doesn't negate the magic and mystery.

My cutoff for doing a training run outside is feels like 6 degrees. Saturday's temperatures were in the feels like -13 degrees. Fortunately, Tom and I planned ahead and got in Saturday's run on Thursday. We rolled out the mats, got out our strength training equipment and workout sheet, and cranked up the playlist. We mixed up the order of the workout and discovered that it made it a lot more challenging. Since our race is only 5 weeks away, we will keep the same order of the workout. After we recover from the race and this training cycle, we will mix it up! We incorporated more stretching and spontaneous dance movement into the workout celebrating our health and wellness at 73 and 72 years old.

I am celebrating 20 years of healing feeling so much joy and gratitude in this training cycle. After being given the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome and told that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair expecting an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged, I asked for Divine Guidance. I discovered the power and magic of writing poetry that ultimately led me to the sport of running. I discovered the magic in believing in myself to exceed all expectations after the Post-Polio Syndrome diagnosis. In February of 2008, I set the goal of running the 2009 Boston Marathon despite never having run a day in my life and still being in a toe-up leg brace. Being a part of the running community and the sport of running has been a magical part of my life! 

I've been blessed to experience so many magical moments since becoming a part of the running community.  One of my favorite memories popped up as a Facebook memory when I was at the Bill Rodgers 5K with Phil Lipof in August of 2014. On 1/24/2021, Phil Lipof posted this on social media:

"I met an amazingly inspirational woman in August of 2014 at the Zero Prostate cancer walk/run in Newton Mass. I emceed the event with marathon icon Bill Rodgers. I don’t want to tell you the whole story here because she has just written a book about it - but Mary McManus’s journey from a wheelchair to the finish line at the Boston marathon is a story everyone should hear. How childhood polio, suicide and determination collide at the intersection of inspiration and awesome! Here is a picture of us from that day and the cover of her book (in which she talks about our meeting that day). Getting her signed copy made me smile and remember how spectacular year she is. The book is called 'The adventures of runnergirl 1953.'"

On Monday, while Tom dug us out from the two feet of snow compliments of Winter storm Fern, I did a 45 minute strength training workout. I worked out with intention focusing on preparation for race day on 3/1. We've had an amazing training cycle with having to substitute only two strength training days for running days. Fingers crossed we are able to get out this week for our regularly scheduled runs now that snowmageddon has moved out. We are so incredibly grateful we have electricity, heat and hot water and a battery operated snow blower.

Tuesday was a different kind of training day. The roads were icy and the snow banks too high to make it safe for us to go on a run. As Tom continued to dig us out, my job was to work on removing snow from the car; a wonderful upper body workout that included side stepping around the car and keeping my balance. 

I do miss our early morning before breakfast runs but was so grateful we were able to get in a runchie on Thursday. It was bitter cold when we started with a wind chill. My face hurt, but my gratitude at being able to get out and get in the miles kept me warm. I was grateful to the people in our Town who plowed out at night and salted the roads. We couldn't get to our usual running route at the Reservoir and going down Beacon Street, so we spontaneously took a left on the road before the bridge that leads to the Reservoir. We got to incorporate lots of hills and were treated to warm sunshine!

Tom and I reflected on what I'd been told when I was diagnosed with Post-Polio Syndrome in December of 2006. It was presumed that because I had contracted paralytic polio as a child that I had osteoporosis, and, if I fell on the ice presuming my balance wasn't good, I would end up with a hip fracture. I should only go out with a cane and an ice gripper going from my home to the car.

As I felt invigorated and exhilarated by the sunshine, cold air and being steady on my feet confidently navigating snow, slush and ice with ease, I only knew that getting out in Winter is vital for health and well-being. When we weren't able to get out for a run for a week, I noticed a downshift in my physical and mental well-being that was quickly reversed during and after Thursday's run.

One of my favorite poems is "Courage" that was inspired by our training runs around Jamaica Pond on the road to the 2009 Boston Marathon.

With Thursday's miles, we gratefully and joyfully wrapped up another week of training on the Road to Hyannis.  It wasn't your typical training week given the weather but we did the best we could given Mother Nature's blast of Winter. We are so delighted we uploaded the front end of our training cycle with long runs confident we have a solid base for race day.

I'm so excited that 4 weeks from today, we head to my favorite race weekend in my happy place on Cape Cod. Come see me at the Expo where I'll be inspiring runners with my incredible journey and have my books for sale. The Marathon and 10K are almost sold out. The Half Marathon is a great race to prep for the Boston Marathon. Registration fees go up 2/1. Register today by following this link. Be sure to make your reservations at the Host Hotel, The Cape Cod Irish Village at the Emerald Resort and Conference Center. They are almost sold out for race weekend!

See you in Hyannis! 

In health and wellness - Mary

Visit my ***NEW*** website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My Trilogy of Transformation chronicles my journey from having been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair with the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome, a progressive neuromuscular disease by Western Medicine standards to a woman transformed through the sport of running. Take a journey into a world of healing, hope and possibilities with my 7 books, available on Amazon. My 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner: Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is a selection of the WBZ News Radio Book Club and Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reading for Every Runner. You will be inspired by my strength, courage, resilience, determination and overcoming the inevitable setbacks that come with a journey to health and wellness. 

 I was recently the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

 

Reach out to me at maryamcmanus@gmail.com if you'd like me to speak to your organization or group to inspire them with what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary; how one finds strength, resilience and determination in the face of seemingly impossible odds.

 

Magic, Miracles and Mindfulness In The Miles!

 

Last Saturday, Tom and I opted to sleep in a little later and do an out the door run. We parked at the Cleveland Circle Reservoir using our car for a water stop for our last 5 miler in this part of our training cycle. After once around the Reservoir, we had our water stop and headed down Beacon Street along the Boston Marathon course. I could feel the magic in this training cycle and in my running shoes. Having the goal of a 10K with a stretch goal of another half marathon fuels my feeling of transformation in the wake of polio and trauma. Beacon Street offered rolling hills and plenty of places to stop for a bathroom. The miles were filled with memories of training for the 2009 Boston Marathon. Conquering the hills as we headed back to our car was at once exhilarating and challenging. During this training cycle, I am more focused and determined than I have ever been in recent years. I bring mindfulness to each training run paying exquisite attention to pace, fueling, hydration and effort. My meditation sessions are a sacred time that I prioritize using them for visualization and healing any of the inevitable niggles that accompany a rigorous training cycle. 

 

Our loop around the Reservoir was filled with magical moments that reminded us of the miracles in nature:

Just look at those orbs, brilliant sunshine and sweet turtles that remind us all of this miracle we call life. When we got to our car, I took a few minutes to stretch and hydrate. It made a big difference in my recovery and something I will incorporate into my after run mindfulness practice.

 

We treated ourselves to a healthy yet hefty brunch at Johnny D's in Newton before coming home to take our afternoon rest after a mindful stretching session.

 

Sunday was our rest day; a vital part of any training plan. By Monday morning, we were ready to lace up our running shoes that have magic in them and head out the door. The neighborhood was uncharacteristically quiet as though everyone was sleeping in for the last unofficial day of summer. Even though it was a holiday, we still wanted to get an early start to the day savoring early morning before breakfast runs. The sky was overcast. There was a sense of mystery and magic as we had the Reservoir to ourselves; it was the calm before the rhythm shifted from the lazy days of summer to back to school. I noticed the layers of blue that could only be painted by the Master Artist.

 

As we navigated the hills to and from our home, I felt the benefits of those Beacon Street hills we did on Saturday.

 

Tuesday was our strength training day. A quote from Jillian Michaels inspired the workout:

                                                                                                    With every run and every workout, I remember my WHY. I am celebrating this miracle of healing after having been told to prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair and expect an accelerated decline in functioning as I aged. I feel joy and gratitude deep in my heart and soul that at 71 years old I crank up my playlist and work out with my bestie of almost 49 years. We have a 45 minute workout and continue to challenge ourselves with reps and increased difficulty.

Wednesdays are for rest and recovery!

 

Today's morning run was the jewel in the crown of this week's training. The magic and majesty of the dawn of a new day filled our hearts with love and gratitude. In contrast to Monday morning, cars were careening down the road. Runners were getting in their before work, drop the kids off or get to class runs. The energy of a new season had arrived. The colors at the Reservoir are slowly transforming from summer to Autumn. 

             

 Tomorrow is a feel good Friday rest day when I get everything ready for Tom and me to take on a 5.5 mile training run on Saturday morning. Each week there are new adventures and learning how to best take care of this magical miraculous body during this training cycle. Magic, miracles and mindfulness are sure to be infused into our runs, strength training workouts and recovery days.

 

 In health and wellness - Mary

Visit my website to learn how poetry, optimism, gratitude and the mind/body connection helped me to transform my life. After having been told in December 2006 that I should prepare to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair, I went on to cross the finish line of the 2009 Boston Marathon and have many adventures as runnergirl 1953. Be sure to visit the recently updated News and Events Page for links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

I was recently the guest on The Optimism Institute Blue Sky Podcast. 
"Mary McManus has never had it easy. As a kindergartner, she was a victim of polio just a short time before the vaccine was introduced. She also faced trauma in her home life but somehow managed to persevere and overcome these and still more obstacles throughout her life. Today, Mary is an inspiring author, poet, motivational speaker, and finisher of the Boston Marathon." Here is the link to the Episode Website. Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and on YouTube.

 

My books share a powerful message of healing, hope and possibilities; what's possible despite all appearances to the contrary and are available on Amazon.  My 6th book, "Into the Light:Emerging From the 2020 Pandemic" and my 7th book, "A Most Unlikely Runner:Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" are selections of the WBZ News Radio Book Club. "Inspiration From The Heart of a Warrior" is also a selection Bill Rodgers Running Center Billy's Bookshelf: Recommended Reads for Every Runner. Visit my Amazon Author Page for book descriptions and rave reviews.