Martin Luther King Jr. Day: A Day of Service

Today, many people honored the legacy and memory of  Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by participating in a Day of Service throughout their communities.  This year, I was able to participate in the activity with my Black Girls Run SF Bay Area ladies by supporting the Alameda County Food Bank (ACFB). 

We were shown a powerpoint presentation to gain an understanding of the food services ACFB provides to the community along with other services they offer.  We were given safety instructions and than we were sectioned off by groups and assigned our sorting tasks.  My group sorted and bagged pears.  There was a mix of BGR ladies and others in my sorting area, but we all quickly began to chat to learn what brought us to ACFB , where we worked, etc as the time quickly passed.   Each conversation flowed with ease.  Later in the morning, we were given an opportunity to tour the facility.  It was a warehouse filled with pallets of dry goods, shelves of food in a make-shift 'grocery store', a huge freezer and refrigerator, and trucks for staff to load food to make deliveries to the community agencies that are served.  I must say, it looked like Costco. I'm not sure what happened, but I found myself tearing up as I thought about my current situation of unemployment.  I thought about how blessed I am that while my situation is temporary, I am not in need that requires food assistance from ACFB.  I felt thankful.  I felt proud.  I felt humbled.  All the while thinking that if I were in need of food assistance, I could go to ACFB for help, with no questions asked.  On some level, I think I was reminded that things could be much worse for me, but they're not.

I'm so glad that I participated in this day of service.  I'm filled with such gratitude that I have great people in my life.  I'm glad that for 2.5 hours today, I was able to make a difference in my community and that a family will enjoy pears that I had a hand in packing.

Today was a good day!

For more information and to volunteer at The Alameda County Food Bank, visit:  http://www.accfb.org/
 

Divas = Mission Accomplished!

Today, I completed my 2nd post-op 5k, Divas.  It was another accomplishment I was happy to complete, but this one came with so much more.  This event was an official BGR event.  I had the opportunity to meet and chat with many BGR sisters this weekend from my local group and beyond.  The ladies are so encouraging and inspiring.  It really was a feeling I can't really articulate.  But just know it was good!

I was glad that I saw my bff at the finish and my mom, too!

I learned something new in over hearing a conversation mom was having with the ladies of Sacramento BGR; this was her 34th half marathon finish.  It is because of mom that I became a marathon girl.  She really is inspiring, encouraging, and full of love when talking about running and training.  I hear often how much the ladies love momma-Sandra.  All I can do is nod in agreement.  So thank you, mom for inspiring me to do marathons and always being there at the finish!  And for being Queen Diva #1!!

Walk with a purpose

I am still saddened by the events that occurred in Boston.  I am angry and in disbelief.   What angers me most is the fact that whom ever did this senseless act had no regard for life, nor the hard work that goes into training for a marathon. 26.2 miles is far! Google a location you frequent to see how far it is.  Now imagine running or walking there.  For me, from my moms house in San Leandro to my alma mater, SFSU is 26.2 miles.

When I began training for my first full marathon, I couldn't imagine walking that far. But once training begins, you can imagine doing it.  But it is not easy! Marathon training is like having a 2nd job.  It consumes your life.  It's all you do for 3-4 months.

And to think someone thought more to cause harm to many; kill 3, to date without considering how hard people work to train for a marathon? I am angry.  I feel horrible that many did not cross the finish line. Hug their loved one who waited with open arms.  Fall to their knees once over the finish line.  Throw their hands up to God with elation. Cry. Puke. Smile big across the finish line.

And the big prize for crossing the finish line, getting that medal draped around their neck.  Three will never experience crossing a finish line. More than 100 will have to work harder then ever to cross the finish line.

At the beginning of the work week, I had already planned to walk after work Monday and today.  I didn't walk Monday because I worked too late.  But today, I made sure to hit the pavement.

I wanted to walk for those who couldn't finish.  I wanted the people who trained for the Boston Marathon know that their training didn't go unnoticed.

Today, I walked with a purpose.  2.62 miles.  For the victims and particpants of the Boston Marathon.

Basking in the LOVE...

Completing the 2013 Oakland Running Festival 5k was the most fun event I have attended.  Well, Bay 2 Breakers is always a good time!

There was such a magnetic feeling in the air from my mom and sister being excited that I was making my post-broken ankle debut to the many ladies of Black Girls Run! Bay Area and Sacramento, and to my big sis walking with me.  Honestly, I can't really describe the feeling. But know this...it felt GOOD!! And I truly felt the LOVE from all.

Check out some of the pics that made this day FUN!!

What a beautiful start to the day

BGR! Ladies Preserving the Sexy!

The 'Recovery' Crew!

Dancing across the finish line

Ice and elevation

Mission Accomplished!

Today is the day I set as my intention to make my debut back on the 5k trail the day after my surgery.  I had no doubt I would finish, but the anticipation was agonizing.  I am usually not nervous or anxious before a race, but last night was a restless night of sleep.  And my tummy was upset. Another first!

It was a chilly start and with the metal in my ankle it caused mild pain.  I was prepared with ibuprofen in my bag.  Thankfully, it warmed up and the meds kicked in. But I wasn't totally pain free.  In general, when I do a lot of walking I experience some pain.

I walked with my big sis, Pam. We had an enjoyable time and caught up with new news.  We also walked with a fun bunch of folks with a boom box! Dude serioisly carried his boom box like Radio Raheem from 'Do the Right Thing'. We loved it!  As it turned out, they too were recovering from a broken foot/an achilles injury/leg injury.  We dubbed our group 'the recoveries'!  This was the most fun group I have ever walked with at an event by far.  The best part...we danced across the finish line!

This is what broken ankle to 5k looks like! Mission Accomplished!!

San Jose Rock n Roll: Mini-style

Today was a HUGE day for me.  It was my first post-op event and my 2nd Rock n Roll Series event.  I had already decided to complete the SJ RnR prior to my surgery, but hadn't determined if I would complete the half or mini (5 miles).  Because I enjoyed completing the 5k in Oakland, I decided the mini would be sufficient for my first event since the Nike Half would be the following weekend.

And what an event this turned out to be!  It was just how I remembered my first RnR event; lively, lots of music; and lots of cheers along the course.  Only, this time, I was able to enjoy it more since I wasn't on the course for eight hours, which is how long it took me to complete the San Diego RnR full marathon in 2004!

It started out with the expo, which includes picking up my bib, swag, and seeing what new offerings are available from food, gps systems, and the like.

 



Once I was all done at the expo, my mom, sister and I headed out for a quick bite and rest.  We knew we would be up a little later since we were meeting some of the ladies from Black Girls Run for dinner; carb load meal at Maggiano's.





Race Day:

I don't typically get nervous, but I had a bit of anxiety sitting with me. As I had previously shared with the ladies, this would be my first post-op event and the most miles I would have walked to date.  I knew I could do it, but still.  We met in the lobby before we all walked to the start to our respective corrals.

A  few pre-race pics with my mom and sister

 

The music was blaring loudly and anyone who was still asleep were sleep no more.  All of the current pop and old rock hits were blasting through the speakers to get the runners and walkers pumped up for their start.  It was an electrifying environment.

And so we're off.....



The RnR series is known for it's live bands, djs, and cheer teams along the course.  That is an awesome motivating factor to get someone on a marathon course.  But with each event, there is the crowd of supporters.  Some are cheering on their loved ones, while many along the way are cheering for complete strangers and just appreciate what the runner/walker is doing.  One of the funniest supporters I've seen, to date were two men sitting curbside with their robes on, drinking bloody mary's, while ringing a cow bell!  Classic and I'm so mad that I didn't capture the moment on my camera.

However, I did see the best sign to date....

Before I knew it, the mini was almost over.  I was feeling good and very accomplished.  I was thinking about how amazing the mind and body is.  Eight weeks ago, I was lying in the hospital recovering from surgery with the full intention to get myself ready for this day.  The first 4-weeks the only exercise activity I could do was walk.  I am firmly convinced that if you set your mind to something, you can without a doubt do it!

And so, with full determination and huge smile upon my face, I completed the mini-Rock n Roll Marathon!






Think you want to complete a Rock n Roll event?  Check out their website as you can go to any state and find your inner-rock star!  Click 'Tour Stops'

http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/san-jose

Divas Marathon

On Sunday, May 6th, 2011, I completed my 9th half marathon.  The weather was a bit warm for my liking, but overall, it was a great course.  Besides, See Jane Run event, this was the flattest course I've done.

This was also the first event I rocked my Black Girls Run! 'Preserve the sexy' shirt, too.  I got lots of inquiries and compliments!  Best of all, Divas were everywhere!!!

Diva Expo

    

Diva Juvella getting ready

Lots of Divas getting ready to start!

More waiting

This Black Girl Walks! 

The ATL: BGR! motto!

The Bling!

    

Guest Blog: My sister, from couch to 5k and two-time half-marathon finisher

My sister, Sharla has come along way.  Admittedly, she still has some improvements to make, but she's learning and taking baby steps towards becoming a healthier person.

Sharla decided to participate in a 'from couch to 5k program' and I must say, I was quite surprised.  My sister is not a fan of exercise or fitness, but I knew she had some health issues she needed to come to terms with.  I no longer wanted to make assumptions about why she finally decided to get off of the couch, so I asked her.  Her responses took me by surprise and if I would have tried to create this blog entry, I would not have done it justice, at all.  I am very proud of the progress she's made thus far.  She's completed multiple 5k's and two half marathons to date with more on the horizon!  Way to go Sharla and keep up the great work!!   

Blog Readers, my sister, Sharla:

Thank you for deciding to do a blog about me. I'm famous LOL.


What made me decide to get off the couch?
For years my doctors have been telling me I need to lose weight to improve my health. For years, my mirror has been telling me I need to lose weight. For years my lungs have been telling me I need to increase their strength to improve my health. When I had my knee surgery in February 2011, I was informed, again, that I needed to lose weight. I was also told that I had an irregular heartbeat. All of those signs and warnings FINALLY sunk in when using only my arms I had to haul 271 pounds up sixteen steps. That's when it hit home that by getting rid of a substantial chunk of that mass, I'd reduce/cure my high blood pressure, cure my Type 2 diabetes, sleep better, regulate my irregular heart beat, and be able to shop in the regular department/stores instead of the plus size section/stores.

What programs did I use?
Myfitnesspal.com has an app for android and iPhones. I use it to track my food intake. I am not yet ready to make major changes as far as reducing the foods I know are bad for me, but by monitoring what I eat, I know how many calories I need to burn to not gain weight/lose weight. As my exercise routine becomes more habitual, I'll begin gradually reducing the foods that are not healthy. I also use the Couch 2 5K program that is available as an app as well. This program is amazing because it allows me to gradually build up the ability to jog/run a 5K. They have programs that train you to jog/run 8K, Half Marathon, Full Marathon events.

What made me decide to do a Half Marathon?

As you know, our Mother is amazing. She seriously started running marathons at 50. She also used to be overweight. Having inspiration in your face is very encouraging. I am not a runner. I don't do it for fun. I do it for improved health benefits. For me, a Half is more than enough. I plan to do a Half every month of 2012 (except January when I was still in training, and April when I could only find flat courses. I'm doing a 10K and will walk another 10K on my own as a long training run for my May Half.

What health improvements have I noticed?
The most obvious one is the weight loss. I weigh myself once a week on either Sunday or Monday morning. My last weigh-in put me at 245.2 pounds. I can walk fast/jog for longer distances than before. My knees rarely hurt, even in the cold. I only use my asthma inhaler once or twice a week because my lungs are stronger.  These are small improvements, but imagine where I'd be if I make the dietary changes I need. I need to eat more veggies and whole grains while reducing my processed foods intake. I begin adding in weight training in June. I know that by training for and completing a Half each month, I'll get close to my current goal weight of 200 pounds by the end of the year. In 2013 I start training for the Volkslauf in Bakersfield in October. 


What else has been a source of motivation?

One of the things that helps me is knowing there are other women, especially Black women with similar health issues, who are also on the quest towards health.  I've joined Black Girls Run - San Francisco Bay Area chapter.  I participate in the regular runs as well as our group events.  My second Half marathon was the Oakland Running Festival and I believe over 20 of our BGR chapter members completed 5Ks, Half Marathons, and one even did the Full Marathon.

Even though I am a walker (with a dash of jogger thrown in), BGR is so open and encouraging of all levels that I never feel out of place.  I highly recommend that anyone who is ready to take the first step towards better health, find a group or bring a friend along with them.  It's so easy to break plans with yourself.  We say, 'I have laundry to do', 'I have to go to the grocery store',  or 'I have to watch my tv show'.  Try saying, 'the girls are waiting for me to take a walk/jog/run' or 'my friend needs me so she/he will improve their health'.  

My favorite mantra:  I'm tired of all these damn doctors fussing at me.

I'm taking the slow and steady route since I don't expect to get healthy overnight. After all, I didn't get unhealthy overnight :-)

--
Sharla Robinson    

                                                                         

http://www.myfitnesspal.com/

http://www.volkslauf.com/    

 http://www.c25k.com/  

 http://www.blackgirlsrun.com/                                         



Sharla's 1st Half Marathon-Brazen Racing, Feb.2012





   

Sharla's 2nd Half Marathon-Oakland Running Festival, October 2012

Support

Whew...it's been a long while since I've been here!

I am trying to get back to sharing my thoughts here.  After all, that is the point of a blog, right?  Two of my followers have inquired about my absence here and when will they read an update.  My response has been the same, 'I have a lot going on, being lazy, or I just haven't been in the mood to write, etc.'.  Mainly, I've been in the doldrums and desperately trying to get out.

For me, getting back to taking care of myself, is key to getting out of the doldrums.  What that means in a simple word? EXERCISE!  I feel 1000 times better when I exercise.  I also feel better when I speak about my struggles and what is going on that has caused me to not take care of myself.  The culprit mainly has been work, but also some recent health concerns that have come about.

I've been talking to my main supporter, my mom, but I have so many others in my corner and providing me with the support I need.  I'm very appreciative to have the love and support of them who quickly recognize when I am not my 'normal' self. 

I am happy to say that I am working on both culprits and that I am getting back on track with exercising, eating right, and feeling better about myself.

I don't know the final outcome of my recent health concerns, yet, but I am sure all will be well.  The main thing is, I get back on track and take care of me.

I am back to exercising: yoga at Hotbox Yoga, I recently committed to walking with my new buddy from Black Girls Run group member on Tuesdays, and I started going back to zumba classes.  The most important thing, I'm looking into nutritional counseling to learn tips to eat better and/or have better food combinations.  I hope to update on this item, really soon. 

All in all...things are going to be okay and I thank you all for your support.

I love you!
Juvella, J, Belle, Bobo