Bermuda Triangle Challenge Weekend - Part 3 - I Gave It a Go and I Gave It May All!

 

After nine months of physical and mental preparation, it was go time to go the distance once more to see what this body could do. Tom and I set our alarms and while I wanted to have the front desk give us a wake up call, Tom reassured me that would not be necessary. We did our meditations. I focused on my positive affirmations and drifted off to sleep. Even though breakfast service was not supposed to start until 7:00am, I wanted to go down early in case there was a line of runners eager to get their shuttle to the starting line. We woke up at 6:00am, did a meditation, stretched and donned what had been flat Tom and Mary:

We opened the balcony door to get a feel for the weather. The palm trees swayed from the wind. It was relatively warm given the Boston temperatures and the 50 degree temperatures from race day in 2020, but we brought our jackets to protect us from the wind and rain that was in the forecast. 

The dining room was open when we arrived at 6:30am. I ate slowly and mindfully chatting with other runners in the line to toast my bagel. I spontaneously shared my story with another runner, Laura. It was definitely the pre-race jitters talking. We wished each other a wonderful race.  A few moments later, Laura walked up to our table with Kim who we met at the pool Friday afternoon. Kim and I had a lengthy conversation about leaps of faith and my healing journey. When Laura returned to her table she told Kim about this amazing woman she met at the buffet. We all laughed at the amazing synchronicity that brought us together. 

Tom and I wanted to make sure that we had plenty of time to get our shuttle to the start. We had a light runners backpack from our race swag. We brushed our teeth, had time to go to the bathroom before the race and posed for a Marathon Tours and Travel photo. 

 

It was a short ride to the Stadium where, 4 years ago, I was support crew for Tom and Ruth Anne. We re-introduced ourselves to the race announcer. "You said what a wonderful couple we were racing together beginning in 2016."

"And you still are," he said in that delicious Bermudian accent.

I made two trips to the bathroom before we headed to the starting line across the way from where Tom and I were seated to stay out of the wind. I met the race director, Phil who remembered that I sent him a note about whether or not it would be safe for me to be a part of the race. He was excited to meet me and said to find him post-race and we could take photos with Deena. "You'll wait for me, right?" "Absolutely," he said. I told him I trained hard and was poised to finish in 2:10.

 

I took deep breaths reminding myself that I was going to take it slow and steady, one mile at a time. At 8:45 it was time to head to the starting line. We lined up in front of the police men providing support for the back of the pack. The line in the men's room was too long for Tom to go pee before we had to line up the start. The policeman said, "Well if you gotta go you gotta go" and looked the other way while Tom ran into the bushes.

 

 How amazing to see Carol running up to me to take a photo before the start of the race! She gave me a warm hug, we posed for a photo and she said, "Well I've gotta get back up front. See you at the finish line." I told her how much it meant to me that she would be there to cheer me into the finish!

You can see the wind blowing my bib! 

 

We moved up to the start after the runners went off. I was remarkably calm feeling proud as a 70 year old who went through all I went through to get to the starting line, including COVID in December. I felt loved and supported by the police, my Bermudian friends and the Divine. 

Even though the other walkers took off in front of me, I did not feel the usual urge to catch up. "This is my victory lap," I thought to myself. "I've trained hard and I am ready!!!"

I took that first hill with reroadlative ease putting one foot in front of the other. Spectators joked that we had a police escort. There were no other walkers that we could see in front of us and few spectators lined the course. I was in the zone determined to finish and get my bling.

We caught up with an older woman somewhere before mile 1. "I just knew that we were going to find another walker that we would team up with."  We talked about being back of the packers and how we get celebrated when we cross the finish line. Tom and I shared our Marathon Sports 5 Miler experience when we were celebrated with air horns and cheers as though I had broken the finisher's tape. "Look there's mile 1 up ahead. We did a good pace. We're gonna do this," Marlene said. 

"Absolutely."

We shared our stories and noted Bermuda's beautiful farm land.

"Look there's mile 2," Marlene called out. She said that she had to go to the bathroom.

We asked the volunteers where the porta potties were. They weren't sure but said there was a restaurant down the road we could try. 

"I'll try to run up and catch up with you," Marlene said.

"Oh no. It's runner's code. Besides, it's a good idea for me to stop and hydrate and refuel."

I took off my jacket as the winds subsided and the humidity was high.

"I hope they let me use it," Marlene said. "If they don't, they'll have to answer to me," said Tom.

Success! "I'm not going to drink anymore water because I don't know where the next porta potty is."

"Oh no Marlene. It is humid. We have to hydrate."

"Oh okay," she said.

We soldiered on together pausing to hydrate at times and to have a moment to reset as we tackled the elevation.

 

 

The police told us that we had to now walk single file and stay all the way to the left side of the road. I kept putting one foot in front of the other at a slow and steady pace.

"Hey Mary you're leaning to the left," Tom said.

I barked at him, "Don't tell me that please" but I knew he was right. I remember what happened in Bermuda in 2017 when walking on the uneven pavement caused me to list to the left and my back went into spasm. I tried to compensate for what was happening to me. We stopped for me to stretch and Marlene lovingly rubbed my back. Tom said, "If we make it to that last hill, you're going to have to lean on me." 

I was one determined woman putting one foot in front of the other more focused than I'd ever been. 

"Lead the way Mary," Tom called out.

I stopped to stretch again and could feel I was losing my balance as the cramps in my back took hold.

I saw volunteers up ahead. 

"I gotta call it," I said to Tom and Marlene. "It doesn't make sense for me to get injured or pass out." I stopped my Garmin at 3.06 miles.

"I need a ride back to the Stadium. I'm fine but I'm cramped up and don't want to get injured or worse."

"Do you need to sit down?"

"No I'm okay but how do we get back?"

"Those gentlemen from the Bermuda regiment are going to take you."

I was impressed with the communication and support out on the course.

There was delightful banter on the way back to the Stadium as I let the members of the Regiment know a friend of ours who introduced us to the Island said don't ever get sick in Bermuda which was, in part, motivation for me to call it when I did.

The finish festival was in full swing! I saw Carol who said that I finished really fast. I explained that I didn't finish. She was loving and supportive of my decision and said that she was going to hang out and enjoy being with friends. I congratulated her on her race.

I found Phil and told him what happened. He was incredibly supportive and said that he would not have wanted me to be air lifted off of the Island. He was going to find Deena to have photos taken but he got caught up in his race director duties. When I sent him a thank you email for the opportunity to be a part of the 10K congratulating him on the race logistics. "Well I'm glad you were able to give it a go and you are correct it is better to be safe rather than injure yourself.'

I took a picture of Carol with Island celebrities sisters Nat and Jess aka Lady Gaga and Lady Godiva:

 

 

And had great fun with them being in character as Lady Mary:

 

 

 After getting a post-race massage and stretch with a physiotherapist, Tom and I sat down to wait for our shuttle. In the back of my mind, I wondered if Marlene finished. Our shuttle back to the hotel didn't arrive until 12:15. We could see the finish line from our seats but I wanted to go over and see if we could see her coming in.

She was off in the distance and even though the finisher's clock was over 2:30, they kept the finish area open. As she came into the finish we cried, cheered and screamed along with her daughter, her daughter's friend and her daughter's friend's mother. 

Marlene told us that the police were behind her and kept asking if she wanted to finish. "Oh yes," she said. "I am not giving up." They communicated with the finish line and said there was one more walker coming in and to keep it open. The woman who gave out the medals was crying. We all cried. Marlene's daughter thanked us for being supportive of her mother. We said we were blessed to be together. Instead of waiting for the shuttle, Tom and I, Marlene and her friend took a cab back to the hotel. We exchanged information, wished each other a great rest of the vacation and said we'd see each other at the airport on Monday. 

Although I had no bling to show Samantha, who had left early for the day, Tom and I had a quiet dinner on the balcony of The Pickled Onion relishing a magical and mystical race day. Even though I did not cross the finish line and did nothing foolish (DNF), I can honestly say that I had the best time!

Marlene with her family and friends:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 To be continued...

From my heart to yours

In health and wellness,
Mary

Visit my website to be inspired by my journey. May it ignite a spark within you to go farther than you ever believed you could. Be sure to visit the News and Events Page with links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

Thank you to Mike Reilly for featuring my story on Stories From the Finish Line Sponsored by CURAD Performance Series to inspire others.

Be sure to subscribe to the On The Runs podcast for stories of individuals who are fierce and determined to overcome challenges, set goals and crush them. Here is the link to my Episode 56.

Be sure to subscribe to their new YouTube Channel to enhance your podcast listening experience!

Be sure to download and subscribe to the AdaptX podcast. Here's the link to my wonderful conversation with host Brendan Aylward sharing my journey of transformation and healing in the wake of polio, Post-Polio syndrome and trauma.

 

Bermuda Triangle Challenge - Part 2 - Expo and Bib Pick Up

 

We met Karen and Christine from Marathon Tours and Travel at the breakfast buffet. As they chose lox and other savory items from the buffet, I explained that I have my own oatmeal and would do fruit and a bagel until Sunday.

"You do what you know works!" Karen said.  

Although the forecast called for rain all weekend, we were treated to wall to wall sunshine. I wore capris and my On the Runs t-shirt to help spread the word about this amazing podcast.

I received a Facebook message from our Bermudian friend Carol asking when I was going to the Expo. I shared with her that we were going at 10 but planned to relax at the hotel. We planned for an 11:30 meet up. I felt the pre-race butterflies begin to flutter. I calmed them with my meditations. I felt antsy but after yesterday's travel day that included over 8,000 steps.Between walking around the airport, souvenir shopping, a stop at Miles Market and the stairs at the Pickled Onion, I knew I needed to stay off of my feet. At 10:00am we headed into the Expo.

 

At the bottom of the stairs that lead to the Expo, we bumped into Deborah Pharoah-Williams and her husband Howard. We quipped about his cooking during the pandemic videos and experienced the joy of seeing people in person instead of social media. I wished Deborah a wonderful race weekend. Howard was support crew and also a race volunteer. We picked up our bibs and race swag. They out did themselves with backpacks and water bottles with a focus on sustainability. A couple offered to take our photo. Part of the adventure of an international race weekend is striking up conversations with other runners. The energy was electric as we exchanged stories of past Bermuda Race Weekends and our goals for the weekend! The couple who took our photo was in their late 70's. He is hoping to be running at least until he is 80 to be 'the last man standing' to take his age group!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Miles Market was out of Ruth Anne's favorite Bermuda granola. There was a vendor selling granola who makes granola with his wife out of their kitchen. He suggested we take a taste and it was out of this world! We bought a bag to take home to Ruth Anne. We walked around the Expo and bumped into our dear friend Tony Bean who was taking photos. We hugged and laughed to be together again.

 

 

 

The Bermuda Bookstore booth had a sign that said Deena Kastor would be at the Expo at 1:15pm. We went back to our room to change into our bathing suits and shorts. I waited in the lobby for my dear friend Carol Griffith to arrive. She was running a bit late because she got detained by another runner!

I still get goosebumps remembering this magical moment:

I presented her with a copy of my book "Adventures of Runnergirl 1953." I put my hands on my heart and said, "I don't know if this is possible, but would you be able to come to the finish line to cheer me into the finish?"

"What time do you think you'll finish?"

"Around 2:10."

"Let me check with my husband who is planning to pick me up. I'll message you later today."

She presented me with two made in Bermuda beaded bracelets. "These are for you and Ruth Anne," she said. I was choked up.

We hugged again and wished each other a wonderful race.

 

 

 

 

More relaxing by the pool time before lunch. As we walked from the pool to the hotel, a group of a dozen or so 20-something runners were eating sandwiches on the steps. They were from Boston! We exchanged running stories. They told us about a wonderful sandwich place "just down the street" but to save steps, we had lunch outside at the Crown and Anchor Restaurant. They served the best beyond burger and cole slaw I have ever enjoyed! The service was impeccable. 

We returned to the Expo where Deena Kastor was giving a speech:

I felt goosebumps and chills all over. There was my shero in 3-D living color!

After her pep talk to the runners, she went over to the Bermuda Bookstore booth's table for a book signing. Her deep blue soulful eyes met mine as I shared my journey as a most unlikely runner and how I happened to find myself at the age of 70 years old taking on the Bermuda Triangle Challenge 10K. I told her that I've shared my story on many podcasts incluing, "On the Runs." When she said, "Thank you for bringing your inspiration to our sport," I melted inside and put my hand to my heart. When I presented my dog-eared copy to her along with my notes in preparation for race day she said, "You're a good student." 

"It sounds as though you have a good space in your head for tomorrow, but just remember, if any of that mental preparation isn't working, just take in the views."

"I've done 3 Bermuda Halfs here and know how magnificently beautiful the Island is." 

 "Oh you've been here before. This is my first time!"

 She signed my books:

 

 

and I asked if we could get a photo together.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"Of course!"

A professional photographer took our photos and he sent them to me.

I thanked her for being an inspiration to me and helping me to prepare for tomorrow's race. She wished me a wonderful day.

The clouds and cooler air moved in but it was amazing to sit and relax by the hotel's Infinity Pool where we met fellow runners. We shared stories and hopes for race weekend. Of course we talked about the weather.

 

I made 5:30 dinner reservations at the Crown and Anchor. Runners with bibs filled the lobby getting ready for the Front Street Mile. I had a traditional pre-race meal of salmon and salad. Tom and I returned to our room for showers, meditation and a good night's sleep. I reveled in the magic of the day, listened to the gentle waves from the canal beneath our balcony and calmed my pre-race jitters with a series of meditations and affirmations. I received a message from Carol that she would be able to stay and cheer me into the finish. She wished me a good night's sleep and said she'd see me in the morning!

 

Tomorrow would be my victory lap!

To be continued....

From my heart to yours

In health and wellness,
Mary

Visit my website to be inspired by my journey. May it ignite a spark within you to go farther than you ever believed you could. Be sure to visit the News and Events Page with links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

Thank you to Mike Reilly for featuring my story on Stories From the Finish Line Sponsored by CURAD Performance Series to inspire others.

Be sure to subscribe to the On The Runs podcast for stories of individuals who are fierce and determined to overcome challenges, set goals and crush them. Here is the link to my Episode 56.

Be sure to subscribe to their new YouTube Channel to enhance your podcast listening experience!

Be sure to download and subscribe to the AdaptX podcast. Here's the link to my wonderful conversation with host Brendan Aylward sharing my journey of transformation and healing in the wake of polio, Post-Polio syndrome and trauma.

 

Bermuda Triangle Challenge Part 1 - We Arrived!

 
 
 I used visualization to create a beautiful Bermuda Triangle Challenge Weekend. While the 10K's outcome was not as I had visualized it, the weekend overflowed with joy, happiness, reunions, fun and the fantastic feeling of knowing that I am off the sidelines. What a blessing to be a part of a Race Weekend reconnecting with fabulous friends -- and myself!

The limo arrived 15 minutes early at 5:45 am. He popped the trunk of the shiny black sedan. He was dressed exactly as I imagined. We met him halfway up the walkway and he effortlessly whisked our luggage into the trunk. Our Bermuda Race Weekend vacation was off to a wonderful start. We had one snow storm the week before Race Weekend followed by warm rain that melted all the snow. I was grateful to be on dry ground with moderate temperatures.Traffic was light on the way to Logan International Airport. With Jet Blue Extra fare we had priority at security. We had plenty of time to have a leisurely breakfast at Davio's in Terminal C. It was quite the contrast to the usual hustle and bustle at Legal Seafood where you sit elbow to elbow with other travelers. We had a booth and impeccable service. Our usual breakfast consists of cereal and oatmeal. What a contrast to our vacation breakfast of eggs, fruit and toast.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As we walked to our gate, I spotted this painting of The Cat in the Hat.

 

I thought to myself, "It's a sign!" Of all the sights to see at Terminal C, there was a larger than life Cat in  the Hat to greet me, reminding me of my earth angel physical therapist Miss Holly who coaxed my withered muscles and nerves back to health after contracting paralytic polio. The cadence of Dr. Seuss came back to me after the diagnosis of Post-Polio Syndrome and helped me to harness the power of the mind/body connection to transform my life!

Our flight was on time! While we waited to board Jet Blue Flight 203 nonstop to Bermuda, I checked the weather for the hundredth time for race day and the weekend. The forecast called for rain all weekend! As passengers arrived in the waiting area, Tom and I played our game of “runner or not.” We asked and answered the question, “You running this weekend.” The excitement was building before we leave the ground. The flight was smooth. I listened to my On the Road to Bermuda playlist feeling confidence in my training. I reviewed my affirmations and notes from Deena Kastor’s book. As we began our descent into Bermuda, my heart overflowed with gratitude. Bermuda is even more beautiful than I remembered. Absence makes the heart grow fonder. The new airport was magnificent. We had to get our bearings as we were accustomed to landing on the tarmac, walking down the stairs breathing in the fragrant Bermuda air, getting our luggage and passing through customs. I enjoyed being able to roll my carry on that had all of our running gear (just in case our luggage was lost) off of the airplane. As we got our passport stamped while presenting our arrival card, I heard what I’ve waited to hear for four long years, “Welcome to Bermuda!” 

We double checked each of the signs just outside baggage claim. No Marathon Tours and Travel car. We contacted our Tour Operator and apparently the van driver did not have the list of the names only a head count. Three people got on the wrong van and took our spot and the spot of another runner. It  would be at least 30 minutes before he was able to pick us up. Oh well, we were on Island time. Sun peeked through the clouds as I rolled up my long sleeve shirt. I took deep breaths of the fragrant air. When our ride arrived, he told us he had to wait for another flight. Tom and I took a cab, forgetting about the mix up and taking in the magnificent vistas en route to our hotel. We arrived at the Hamilton Princess Hotel where two doormen effortlessly open the heavy wooden doors welcoming us to Bermuda and Race Weekend. Our room was ready! The view from our balcony overlooking a canal took my breath away.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We changed out of our Boston winter clothes. Our original plan was to have a light bite for lunch and go to the Pickled Onion for a 6:00pm reservation but opted instead for an early dinner. But first, souvenir shopping at our favorite store, Flying Colours Bermuda.

The flowers were in bloom as we strolled down Front Street:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tom bought a new hat after we texted Ruth Anne for his approval! We bought gifts for our neighbors who were watching the house and bringing in the mail.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I'd  forgotten how steep the stairs were to the Pickled Onion. We were greeted by the bartender.

"We have a dinner reservation for 6 but we'd like to eat now if that's okay. We also need to cancel our reservation for tomorrow night. I'm going to need to rest before race day."

"I'll take care of that for you."

"So you're not going to have dinner with us tomorrow huh?"

Our dear friend and manager Samantha Maguire seemed to appear out of nowhere on the balcony.

"Oh my God Sam! It's so good to see you."

We reminisced about our first meeting in 2016, how she lovingly prepared ice packs for me after the half marathon and got caught up on life during the past 4 years.

"I noticed they changed the menu," I said.

"What did you used to get?" Sam asked.

"The salmon with a glaze, jasmine rice and string beans but it's okay, I'll have the bowtie pasta."

"Well we don't have string beans but we have squash...."

"Mary loves squash," Tom interrupted.

"We have basmati rice and I think the chef can fix the salmon with a glaze."

"Are you taking our order?" I asked Sam with surprise in my voice.

"Sure I can."

 After she placed our order, she came out to say goodbye since it was time for her to go home. If our transportation had arrived on time, we would have missed Sam! She understood that I needed to rest on Friday evening but asked if we could come for dinner on Saturday. She wanted to see us before we left on Monday. Even though we had the pre-race pasta dinner scheduled on Saturday, when the manager of a restaurant has the chef fix a meal off of the menu, you say yes of course we will be here. "And I'll bring my bling." We said goodbye with warm hugs. Dinner was perfection!

 

 

 

I said to Tom as we walked hand in hand back to the Princess, "You know Tom I do have to hold a space for the possibility that I might not be able to finish on Saturday. I know I've done all the training and will leave nothing out on the roads but it will also be okay to see Sam on Saturday with or without the bling."

 "Absolutely," Tom said. "But it will be your victory lap!"

 "It sure will be," I said.

 My heart overflowed with gratitude for safe and smooth travels, a reunion with one of my favorite people in Bermuda, and excited for Friday's adventure in Paradise.
 

To be continued...

In health and wellness,
Mary

Visit my website to be inspired by my journey. May it ignite a spark within you to go farther than you ever believed you could. Be sure to visit the News and Events Page with links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

Thank you to Mike Reilly for featuring my story on Stories From the Finish Line Sponsored by CURAD Performance Series to inspire others.

Be sure to subscribe to the On The Runs podcast for stories of individuals who are fierce and determined to overcome challenges, set goals and crush them. Here is the link to my Episode 56.

Be sure to subscribe to their new YouTube Channel to enhance your podcast listening experience!

Be sure to download and subscribe to the AdaptX podcast. Here's the link to my wonderful conversation with host Brendan Aylward sharing my journey of transformation and healing in the wake of polio, Post-Polio syndrome and trauma.

Feel Free...Have Fun...Finish

 

As I toe the starting line of the Bermuda Triangle Challenge 10K, I will be doing the best with what I've got. I've consistently trained to take on the 10K taking myself to the edge of pace and endurance. Taper time has served me well to heal up those 'niggles' in my right knee and leg, and continuing to heal the effects from a reaction to the COVID vaccine in 2022. As I take pause from training to let taper time work its magic, I realize how much I do love being outdoors getting in the miles and doing the best with what I've got. 

What are my goals for Saturday's 10K?

1) Feeling free to be me knowing that I'll be doing the best I can as one who overcame the challenges of paralytic polio and trauma. I've been clearing out the memories of lugging my leg brace trying to keep up with my peers and embodying feeling proud that I chose to take on this challenge. It's been eight years since I toed the starting line of an in person event. It's been eight years since I've gone a distance longer than a 5K. No apologies are needed for my back of the pack status regardless of who may be part of Saturday's field. After all, they did set the event up as a 10K walk! As I celebrate myself for taking on the challenge to celebrate 17 years of healing and being 70 years old, I know and trust my energy will be infectious. I allow joy to sweep away the fears about the 'time limit' as I envision myself going out there and showing what this body can do! I continuously thank my body for all it has given me. I feel a stirring in my soul remembering my why to spread a powerful message of healing, hope and infinite possibilities! 

2) Have fun! I've done 3 Bermuda Half Marathons in 2016, 2017 and 2018. I have cherished memories of having so much fun out on the course. Bermudians invited us in for omelettes and mimosas. The volunteers are incredibly supportive and encouraging. There's music and dancing in the streets. Trusting my training knowing that I will easily come in under 2.5 hours makes way for me to relax and have fun out on the course. When I allow fun to be in the forefront of my thoughts, the fears are whisked away. 

3) Finish! While I would LOVE to come in under 2 hours, my goal is to finish feeling fabulous with a huge smile on my face and gratitude in my heart. It does not matter if I am the last finisher to cross the finish line. In my mind's eye, I break the finisher's tape knowing I won my race.

I was told several times throughout my journey, that I should never have started running, that I should stop running and/or cap my distance. I understand that the medical profession is wary about giving 'false hope' and share information based on statistics and case studies. Those are powerful messages to overcome. This quote about optimism is a wonderful way to wash away those messages I received from Western Medicine:

I am infusing myself with motivational quotes as I prepare to take on Saturday's challenge:

It is three more sleeps before the limousine picks us up in the early morning hours to whisk us away to Terminal C. I focus on our flight being on time. As I mentioned, the anticipation and excitement of Race Weekend begins at the gate when Tom and I play our game, "runner or not." We ask fellow travelers, "You running this weekend?" For the first time in 8 years, my answer is 'Yes.' If someone asks me what are you hoping for, I will answer with a BIG smile, to feel free, to have fun and to finish!

From my heart to yours

In health and wellness,
Mary

Visit my website to be inspired by my journey. May it ignite a spark within you to go farther than you ever believed you could. Be sure to visit the News and Events Page with links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

Thank you to Mike Reilly for featuring my story on Stories From the Finish Line Sponsored by CURAD Performance Series to inspire others.

Be sure to subscribe to the On The Runs podcast for stories of individuals who are fierce and determined to overcome challenges, set goals and crush them. Here is the link to my Episode 56.

Be sure to subscribe to their new YouTube Channel to enhance your podcast listening experience!

Be sure to download and subscribe to the AdaptX podcast. Here's the link to my wonderful conversation with host Brendan Aylward sharing my journey of transformation and healing in the wake of polio, Post-Polio syndrome and trauma.

Keep Calm It's Race Week!

 

 

 

Taper madness is real. I've said it before and I am saying it again. It's also a wonderful opportunity to transform my worrisome thoughts and doubts into powerfully positive affirmations. It's an opportunity to become more awake and aware feeling my passion and purpose deep in my heart and soul. I remember taper time in 2018, the last time I took on a live event. I thought the 2018 Bermuda Half Marathon would be my farewell to any distance longer than a 5K but sometimes the Universe has other plans. I miss my Saturday training runs but I am redirecting my energy into getting us ready to travel this week; an adventure we have not had in four years! Taper time is a wonderful time for me to reflect on this training cycle and my journey of transformation.

As I clicked on my google calendar and turned the page of my planner - there they were! All the activities for race week were saying to me, "Keep calm. It's Race Week!" I had an email from JetBlue reminding me about what I need to travel to Bermuda to ensure that surprises are not a part of the itinerary.

This training cycle has brought incredible gifts of seeing amazing sunrises on early morning runs, feeling stronger and more fit than I have since 2018, trusting my body and being grateful to my body for it all gives me. I can fit into clothes I haven't been able to fit in since 2018. I discovered clothes in my closet that now fit while packing for the warmer weather in Bermuda! I've relished rest and meditation time feeling the satisfaction that comes with training for a new goal.

During the past two weeks, as Team McManus was under the weather with COVID, I felt my habit of worry begin to intensify. With the physical and mental training for the 10K, I've been able to shift gears from imagining all that could go wrong to seeing with my 3rd eye that everything is going to go great. I can harness the power of my imagination to create wonderful outcomes or go to my 'dark and twisty' place. It takes the same amount of thought and one is oh so much more pleasant than the other. Besides, worrying, fear and anxiety only serve to rob me of today's happiness. Now I do greet myself with compassion and kindness when anxiety, worry and fear take root especially since I don't have running as one of my favorite ways to cope with worry. I feel incredibly blessed and grateful by the messages I am receiving through emails and social media posts fueling affirmations and suggesting 2024 is the year to write a new script. 

I could easily be a DNS - do not start - and allow Bermuda Marathon Weekend to be a vacation sitting by the pool or at the beach. I know that after the stress of COVID and Ruth Anne's health challenges, people would totally understand and be supportive. As I entertained those thoughts (as I had in our hotel room in the early morning hours of race day in 2018) I realized that's not who I am. I am well trained. My body achieves what my mind believes. Tom and I are worthy of this wondrous adventure that happens to include a celebration of healing and life.

I have NOT come this far to only go this far! I imagine how absolutely glorious it's going to feel to go the distance again and go the distance in Bermuda! The weather keeps shifting and changing which is typical for our beautiful Island in the middle of the Atlantic. I love when the long range forecast calls for wind and rain. Jackets and hats are packed. Seeing challenging weather circumstances helps me to mentally prepare to say "bring it on!" I plan to embrace and seize the days of our Bermuda adventure! And then if the conditions improve, it will be a pleasant surprise! 

On Saturday, Ruth Anne suggested we go to South Boston to do a gentle shake out walk. It was freezing with a serious wind chill. The sky was a brilliant blue and the sun shined brightly. I felt invigorated by the brisk air kissing my face. Our smiles reflected the joy we felt being together with 2023 being in the rear view mirror:

In a few more days, Tom and I will take our first plane trip since January 2020. I am keeping calm staying focused on imagining wondrous adventures even more amazing than what I can conjure up in my imagination. Checking things off on our packing list and to do list fuels the sense of excitement and anticipation. I am topping off the tank of mental training with lots of meditation, rest, hydration, reading "The Happiness Advantage" by Shawn Achor (a book recommended by Deena Kastor), listening to my Bermuda training playlist and remembering so many magical moments during my adventures as runnergirl 1953. I warm my heart and soul with memories of when our Coach from Spaulding Rehab met us on Heartbreak Hill during the 2009 Boston Marathon. He had tears in his eyes when he told me to go get my medal. Women's running pioneer and running champion Jacqueline Hansen met me out on the course of the 2016 Hyannis 10K. She gave me a hug and told me how strong I looked. I felt as though she was my fairy godmother telling me you will go to the ball. The feelings of being a back of the pack runner melted away. I am allowing the fears and worries of race day to melt away. Tom will be by my side every stride of the way. I haven't experienced the excitement of being a participant in race weekend since 2018. I already feel the buzz of energy that's unique and infectious to runners anticipating a race weekend, beginning with the runners gathering at the airport.

The Bermuda Triangle Challenge website lets me know that the Countdown is On!

It's time for me to keep calm! It's race week!

From my heart to yours

In health and wellness,
Mary

Visit my website to be inspired by my journey. May it ignite a spark within you to go farther than you ever believed you could. Be sure to visit the News and Events Page with links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

Thank you to Mike Reilly for featuring my story on Stories From the Finish Line Sponsored by CURAD Performance Series to inspire others.

Be sure to subscribe to the On The Runs podcast for stories of individuals who are fierce and determined to overcome challenges, set goals and crush them. Here is the link to my Episode 56.

Be sure to subscribe to their new YouTube Channel to enhance your podcast listening experience!

Be sure to download and subscribe to the AdaptX podcast. Here's the link to my wonderful conversation with host Brendan Aylward sharing my journey of transformation and healing in the wake of polio, Post-Polio syndrome and trauma.

Happy New Year!

 

 

 The energy of this month is optimism. Every choice I make is a stepping stone along the path to the wonderful future that I am creating for myself. I let go of the negative energy of the past and become a "now" person. I welcome each day with open arms. ~Louise Hay

How strange to not start the New Year with a run. But I am in serious taper mode and know that this time of rest and taking care of myself will serve me well come race day.

We have had a stressful few weeks albeit weeks that were also filled with joy and celebrations. It was easy to go to my "dark and twisty place" (iykyk from Grey's Anatomy) especially after Tom tested positive for COVID on 12/29. I am so deeply grateful for the primary care practice he has. His doctor was on vacation but the PA he had for his visit was absolutely phenomenal. I thought that he'd have to have two negative tests within 72 hours of travel which of course I googled and was protocol during the height of COVID. The PA told us that he is cleared regardless of test status after 10 days of isolation. His symptoms began Christmas Eve. Tom gets the week off between Christmas and New Year's but has to use vacation time. We had planned day trips but with Tom feeling unwell, Ruth Anne experiencing UTI symptoms and the upper respiratory infection, and me continuing to recover from it as well, we were very content to stay at home and let ourselves recover.

I spent New Year's Day continuing to clean and disinfect the house, creating social media content, cleaning out my digital files and focused on getting ready for our trip. We took extra long time for meditation and visualization and nourished ourselves well. Tom and I reviewed the itinerary from Marathon Tours and Travel taking notes and adding to the to do list. I took a lot of time for stretching. I cleaned out the planner from 2023 and cracked open the new planner for 2024. 

Ruth Anne gifted me a self-care journal as part of my Christmas Birthday celebration. It's a wonderful tool for reflections on what I want to heal this year and envisioning what I want to create this year. I get to choose my perspective on circumstances that happen in our lives. I could have had a wonderful pity party about what we weren't able to do after Christmas and that we were all experiencing discomfort. Instead I focused on gratitude and the blessings and gifts in the challenge. I was so deeply grateful for wonderful health care providers and that while our symptoms were uncomfortable, they didn't require more intense interventions than hydration, gargling, hot tea and lots and lots and lots of rest. Did I mention rest? I must admit, I am not the best when it comes to rest. I do know when the Universe is letting me know it's time for a big time out and all I can do is surrender.

I've had time to cook and focus on nutrition for the body and meditation for the heart and soul. Self-love, kindness and compassion take center stage exiting 2023 and embracing health and wellness for 2024. Tapping into happiness and joy regardless of circumstances is a top priority. David Hamilton shares a story about when his dog Oscar encountered a duck that snapped at him. He ran to David and David noticed that he literally shook off the experience. During this 'down time' I've been working on better managing my fear and anxiety. When that fear and anxiety take over, it's challenging to be in a creator mode allowing pleasant imaginings to be at the fore front of my thoughts. Soooo I had the image of David's dog shaking off the unpleasant experience and going about his day. He recently added a course to his on line offerings about how the mind can heal the body. It's been a wonderful refresher for me to harness the positive power of the mind to overcome these recent challenges and move forward with joy into 2024. Taper madness certainly intensified with us all being under the weather and not having our usual outlet on the roads.

While Tom's vacation was not what we envisioned and our post-Christmas time focused on medical care initially fraught with worry about whether or not we would be able to have our vacations to Bermuda and Nashville, we used the time and circumstances to regain our health and spiritually grow. We surrendered and accepted to the circumstances using gratitude and believe it or not humor as we navigated through disrupted sleep, lots of hot showers with steam and watching episodes of Psych in the evening. We read, meditated and listened to music. We stayed connected with friends and family through social media. Sure it would have been awesome to see the ice sculptures downtown and enjoy First Night festivities maybe going out for dinner but it was also awesome to be grateful for the gift of the dawn of a new year. And what an exciting adventuresome New Year we have planned.

On the 11th, Tom and I head to Bermuda on Jet Blue and Ruth Anne heads to Nashville to visit her best friend from college. On the 13th, I toe the starting line of the Bermuda Triangle Challenge 10K. I trust the training and let the excitement of anticipation wash through every part of my Being. January 26-27, I am an Ambassador for the Boston Run Show. How exciting and exhilarating to have meet ups with friends from social media, hear inspirational speakers and share my incredible journey. In February, Tom and Ruth Anne take on the Hyannis Half as their final training run for LA. In March, we head to Los Angeles where Tom and Ruth Anne take on the LA Marathon! I have a non-running adventure in New York City to hear Barry Manilow in Concert at Radio City Music Hall. I've been imagining manifesting a meet and greet with him. 

Hello 2024 - Team McManus is embracing you with open arms.

Happy NewYear!  

From my heart to yours

In health and wellness,
Mary

Visit my website to be inspired by my journey. May it ignite a spark within you to go farther than you ever believed you could. Be sure to visit the News and Events Page with links to podcast interviews, speaking engagements and where you can find my incredibly inspirational story.

My books that pack powerful messages of healing, hope and possibilities are available on Amazon

Thank you to Mike Reilly for featuring my story on Stories From the Finish Line Sponsored by CURAD Performance Series to inspire others.

Be sure to subscribe to the On The Runs podcast for stories of individuals who are fierce and determined to overcome challenges, set goals and crush them. Here is the link to my Episode 56.

Be sure to subscribe to their new YouTube Channel to enhance your podcast listening experience!

Be sure to download and subscribe to the AdaptX podcast. Here's the link to my wonderful conversation with host Brendan Aylward sharing my journey of transformation and healing in the wake of polio, Post-Polio syndrome and trauma.