The Walk - Day 3

WOW!!! This was amazing! I can barely fathom that I did 60 miles over the last 3 days. Can barely fathom the camaraderie of the women (and men) who walked, who cheered us on daily. It was saddening to see how many lives are touched by this disease. It was empowering to see how passionate these people are.

So tired, so fatigued, but so satisfied.

More tomorrow. :-)
Regards,
Natalie Sinanan
Support my 3 Day Breast Cancer Walk at www.the3day.org

The Walk - Day 2

Can I say WHOPPED????!!!!! My feet aren't even mine anymore. 22.5 miles through Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Potomac really put my feet and will to the test. I made it back to camp though. I met my goal: no sweep vans!!! This 2nd day was trying and a lot of people felt it. Sadly some people were in denial and literally fell on their face, others knew that despite their dedication, they needed to call it a day and head back to camp. Either way, we are all victors!!!

So I chickened out last night and brought my tired butt home, it was worth getting a good night's rest. And I am doing the same tonight. Getting on the road even earlier to ensure that I get to the Closing Ceremony at Lincoln Memorial on time. I am a little nervous because it is going to be such an emotional experience.

Well, would love to write more, but gotta get some rest.

TaTa for now!

The Walk - Day 1

Woooo Hoooo!!! I am no longer a 3 Day Virgin!!! he he he A 3 Day Breast Cancer Walk virgin that is (get your minds out of that gutter). I had the BEST and most empowering time EVER!!! 19.8 miles and I am ready to do tomorrow's 22.8 through Montgomery County.

I met survivors, children of survivors, husbands of survivors, widowers; people who proudly workded hard to raise money for not only the search for a cure, but the all out FIGHT!!! I met a 24-walk veteran who has decided to hang up her walking-sneakers at age 74 because it's "enough on her body"... 24 walks!!! Twice a year Mattie walks for the 3 Day: once in her hometown of Boston, and once in another city, to raise money to assist those who don't have it to pay the medical bills associated with chemotherapy; to afford home-care for single, people with no family members; to educate women in rural India that Breast Cancer is NOT contagious; to reassure women in Africa that the removal of a diseased-breast makes her no less of a woman than any of us.

It was inspiring to feel the warmth of 61 team mates I had never met, to walk alongside me in this fight. It was comforting to walk past residents of Georgetown who opened their homes in gratitude with snacks, gatorade and a clean and comfortable bathroom, because we are fighting a fight for them and their sisters, mothers and daughters. It was motivating to have crew members donate their time and energy in this unseasonal 85-degree October weather ensuring our safety, handling our food and luggage and just in general be good-natured continuously.

It is the warmest and fullest feeling, next to bearing my own child, that I could feel to date. I have already made up my mind to do things better, because I HAVE to do this next year.

Thank you all...especially my team mates who contributed some of their donations to assist in achieving my minimum to participate in this phenomenol event. Definitely to the boss-man, who has been supportive all the way in other than professional achievements. And ABSOLUTELY my mother who as always has my back...side, front and everything else.

I'm ready for Day 2 yall!!!!!

10.5 miles!!! 5 Days to Go!!!

Well I did two walks back-to-back. Granted I could have gotten that done a little earlier, better late than never right? Well at least this time I didn't go straight to sleep right after either walk. As a matter of fact, I've been home lounging for the last 6 hours and I'm not sleepy at all. YIKES!!! I am a little sore, but feeling great. As a matter of fact, I had a partner today (thanks for coming out Sam!!) who I met through FB just yesterday. Yeah, what are the odds? Anyway, was grateful to have the motivation of a partner who will be joining our team. The comraderie never ends.

Got the bulk of my packing out of the way. I think I've made my 35lb weight restriction and have all the essentials...I think. lol We think we've found out where the camp site may be, and fortunately it's not that far from home, if for some reason I do need to check back with the fam. I'll try spending at least the first night on campsite and depending on how that goes, will determine as to whether I spend a second night.

Folks, keep those donations coming in. Still have another $1500 to go. It's Breast Cancer Awareness Month and I know you can do it!!

Thank you always and stay tuned...

6 More Days!!!! I'm excited and READY!!!!

Oh Yeah, I am PUMPED!!!! I just finished walking 10 miles in this GORGEOUS autumn weather, and my body feels ready. Better yet, my spirit is CHARGED and my mind is right where it needs to be. I can't wait until next Friday to meet my 58 team mates from around the entire country. YES 59 OF US!!! The comraderie is great, with this co-ed team. I can't forget all of my friends, family and coworkers who have been supportive in my venture. You have made this challenge one a lot easier to face.

I'll say that fund raising hasn't been the easiest, but this economy has touched us all (and not in the nicest of ways). At the same time, this is all part of the "fight". Thank you folks for sending what you can. Keep your eyes open for events in the near future, though.

Will start packing today. Yikes!!! Can I fit an airbed, sleeping bag and all of a ladies' needs in one 35lb bag? Ha Ha Ha, yet another challenge. Please feel free to send me any tips on that as well.

Later folks!!

10 More Days to GO!!!!!!

Yikes!!! It's get soooooo close and I am getting really nervous. I know that I can do it, shoot, how many times have I chipped through Woodbrook, up Frederick Street and over the stage for Carnival? :) I know this is definitely doable. Getting these donations in isn't easy either, but I am definitely getting there!! Thank you folks for all of your encouragement and support. If you're in the Fairfax/Falls Church area this Thursday, stop on in at Chevy's for lunch with the fundraising flyer to the right. Chevy's will donate 25% of your food bill to my walk. Thanks folks!!!

Late night 3-miler

Yeah, got it in! Have to get these legs conditioned for the real deal. Wasn't easy on the lungs (these allergies are killing me), but it felt good everywhere else.

Folks - thanks for the support, but throw it up on the blog and spread the word to keep the donations coming in.

Peace
Regards,
Natalie Sinanan
Support my 3 Day Breast Cancer Walk at www.the3day.org

Happy Birthday to ME!!!

Well thank you all friends and family for wishing me well today. It's a wonderful feeling no-doubt to know that there are people who really have you in their hearts and thoughts. With that said, I am very appreciative of all of you folks who have extended your support through donations, kind words, advice and motivation. Please come back to this page frequently to look at my progress and offer support. Training walk tomorrow, RAIN OR SHINE!!!

Uh Oh!!!! First injury :-|

I was being SOOOOO careful for months. And if you know me, you know that it has been a great accomplishment (well except for my two bowling incidents). Anywho, I have an 8-mile walk in the morning that I am really looking forward too, except I think I may have a nagging injury that may get in the way. I stubbed my toe REALLY HARD on a cabinet at work, and I am not sure that I will be able to withstand the constant impact of my toe on the inside of my shoe for 8 miles. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Ugggggghhhhh, I think I'm coming down with the "sickness"

Well folks guess what. All that pollen from last week broke through my daily dosing of Zyrtec. I do believe that the "sickness" is upon me. Believe it or not, it's good to know from now, because I will definitely be amongst quite a bit of "nature" on those 3 days. While I do feel a bit fatigued, I still feel that I will be able to do an 8-miler on Saturday morning through a scenic Mt Vernon Trail, along the 14th Street bridge, around the National Mall and back. I just need to remember to charge the batteries to my camera (let me do that right now). Hopefully I'll still be able to put on my dancing shoes for later that night!!! Don't worry Lane, your Hyperion WILL get done. Once again, thank you folks for the donations! They are coming in one by one. Your support is truly appreciated!!

Thanks for the donations!!!

The donations were slow-coming at first, but I see the faith you friends, family and great supporters have in my effort. THANK YOU!!!

Keep those donations coming in, and encourage your friends.

If you have items in your basement or attic that you haven't used in years, call me and I'll pick them up to auction off on eBay. I'll gladly donate the proceeds in your name and forward the receipt to you for 2009 tax deductions.

Thanks folks!!!
Regards,
Natalie Sinanan
Support my 3 Day Breast Cancer Walk at www.the3day.org

WOO HOO!!!! My first 15-miler!!!

Phew!!!! Can I say whooped???!!! Yeah that would be what I am right now. I am finally arousing from my mid-afternoon nap after doing a 15-mile walk completed in 5 hours. Yes that’s what I said 15 MILES!!!! Yes in 5 HOURS!!!!!! If you know me, you know well that I do not really do mornings very well, but thanks to Nico (yes the pesky mutt) I was up by 5:30am (on a Sunday morning none-the-less) and on the course by 6:45 am.

I was skeptical as to how I would feel starting out, but it HAD to get done, if I am to properly prepare for my 3 days of 20 miles/day. I trained with 4 amazing women who in one way or the other was affected by breast cancer personally. The lady who led the training walk is simply amazing to me. She is so inspired and continues to inspire. She has ALWAYS been a survivor she said. She just kicked cancer’s butt last year just before her first 3-day walk. She doesn’t walk for herself, or her first sister who beat it once, or her second sister who shot it down twice, or her mother who jump-kicked it twice as well!!! She is walking for her daughter, her nieces….and your daughters and your nieces…maybe even mine one day. J Her family has a mutation to their BRCA1 gene.

Folks, I am training, fund-raising and walking for your daughters, your nieces, your aunts, your mothers…and maybe even you one day. This year, I am dedicating my birthday to YOU and those you love…in hope to give you ALL many, many more birthdays. Please support me in making this a highly celebrated birthday, by donating to my participation for the research in not only helping people diagnose faster, but actually finding that cure.

Please donate now (there are many payment options), and continue to track my training progress on here my blog. I will also continue to blog while on my actual walk so that you may track that progress as well. International donations are also welcomed. Please feel free to post your comments, encouragements, tips and motivations here.

Thank you those who have donated and thank you in advance for those I know want to help me make a difference.

Thank you for the BEST BIRTHDAY EVER in advance!!!

I'm back!!!!

Yeah, I did drop off of posting for a bit (and training to be honest), but I am back and getting ready for the count-down. Yes, just one month before the big event and I need to get my mind and body right. The donations are finally beginning to trickle in. Please do not forget to click on my link to the right to make your donation. You have options, and this is tax-deductible folks. You can make it. I started getting my camp gear in order as well today. Yes, I finally made the decision to camp out instead of being a punk and coming home everyday. Thanks for loaning me the sleeping bag Shaynie!! Yeah, I'll be roughing it. Check out my regisitry on www.REI.com to let me know if there is anything additional I should add, or even to purchase an item for me. Well, I will be going to my first packing workshop tomorrow and getting at least 5 miles in. Shout me out if you can!!! Laterz

Still holding on

Believe it or not, I'm finally getting in from a 4.5 mile walk. Quite relaxing after a very long day's toil. I felt it in my hamstrings through my hilly route tonight. It did me good especiallu through my "Superwoman" activity day Saturday (thanks for the props Chris). Yeah, 6 miles, an hour of Zumba AND 30 minutes of weight training really was a push. But it felt oh so good when I finally put my head down that night.

I'll aim for no less than 3 miles before work tomorrow, but looking forward to bowling with the league that evening. Trying to keep a good mix going.

Chat with ya then!

Remaining consistent is key

This week has been challenging in getting my training in, but I have been doing it! I will admit that it's hard to tear myself away from my regular responsibilities. but this has to be made a priority. I met a DC walk alumn (Hi Souzan!!), and she is so encouraging and full of life. I'll be doing my first 3 Day group walk this Sunday for 10 miles. Do you think I'll be up to it? I'll keep you posted. In the meantime, I think I'm going to hit the Expo tomorrow. Let's see how many hits my car-door magnet will get me (more on that later, off to get some Tae-Bo in).

L8r

Ahhh, A Rest Day

"Rest" I did by putting my new Bissell Big Green to work on the carpet, ceramic tiles, vinyl and faux wood. AMAZING!! I needed that after a grueling day of 2nd quarter close (yeah finance and accounting folks feel my plight). Either way, I took a rest from training and it is pleasant. Some bowling tomorrow? Yes. A couple miles on the treadmill during lunch? Quite possible.

Hit me up folks!

Night nite.

First 10-miler...well kinda (lol)

PHEW!!!! When I finally turned in this evening, my pedometer clocked me in at 9.04 miles. I spent a great mid-morning walking the National Mall, in great conversation (thanks Sean!). We cleared 6 of our intended 10 miles, before Sean started talking about food. It was all downhill from there. Walk cut short, and on to the hunt for food. I reconciled that I had already done my obligatory 2 miles that morning with the faithful Nico. Well off to the Eastern Market we headed for good food and most importantly MIMOSAS!!! Trying to find parking was entertaining in and of itself. A solid 15 minutes of driving in circles, but to no avail. Fate. Then onto "circling" by foot to find a suitable place to quiet our very hungry bellies. That was evenMORE challenging than finding parking, but Mr. Henry's had our table on the patio waiting for us. Ahhhhh chocolate chip waffles, TRUE FATE!!! I created my own "mimosa". Until I can find that someone else has created and named it, I have created a drink I will name "A Lady's Sunday Lemonade". Ohhhhh so delish. A briskly cold, sweet lemonade mixed with champagne (preferrably not dry). I have some experimenting to do to get the measurements just right. Do I have any taste-testers out there? lol I was yawning terribly at the end of a sumptuous Sunday brunch and long walk, but I still had to walk the puppy for at least a mile. When it was said and done, the pedometer read 9.04 miles (not including our morning walk). I was sooooo happy to turn into my cozy bed after a hot shower and turning the a/c up to frigid. What a great Sunday!! I won't even get into my yummy chicken parm dinner. It was a no-no, but sooooo needed. Chat with yall later!!

Cross-training today

I need a little variety in my routine today. A friend of mine suggested yoga, but I am way too hyper for that...for now at least. I'm heading to the beloved gym for a 2-hr power workout and maybe some sauna time (hey I did Vegas in June and August, I got this covered).

Feel free to hit me up with any training or donation ideas you may have.

Toodles
Sent via BlackBerry by AT&T

Training/shopping...yeah right!!

Yeah, this is why I do so much of my shopping online. When it was all said and done, I tacked on an extra 3.5 miles. Jeeeez is Kingstowne hilly...no that is NOT landscape!!! My thighs feel sore, but it feel like I am finally getting it together.

Oh well, I'll soothe it all with a night of cocktails and dancing.

Ciao

It gets easier and easier everyday. 2.5 miles this morning with Nico by my side. I feel sorry for the poor tike, cause he's panting and blowing halfway through. I figure it'll give me a little rest once I get home...shoot. Well I'm going to try parking my car in the far corner of the shopping mall and walk to and from all the the stores AND the post office. I'll let you guys know what my pedometer clocks when I am done. Jeeeez, how am I going to go drinking tonight? lol Hey it's a long weekend and I have no kid to worry about for quite some time. I'm entitled. Toodles for now.

The training has begun

Ok, so it's time for the procrastination to end, and I have less and less excuses as that time draws close. Well thank goodness for Nico, and his daily walks, because he started us off with a 2.25-mile walk two mornings ago. It was really easier than I thought! Hey if I can do Carnival Monday and Tuesday and STILL wished for one more day, I know I can get this together. Big plus: LOSE THOSE EXTRA 10 POUNDS!!!

Yeah Carnival 2010 here I come!!! Onto a 3 day weekend. I think I am going to try to pull off a 5-miler this weekend. Anyone feel like joining me? Ok fine, just answer your phone when I'm looking for a ride home. lol Toodles