No more Mr. Nice-Guy

I  AM  PISSED.

I barely slept last night. Tossed and turned. All. Night. Long. Why?

CANCER.

That’s why.

I know that most of my fundraising posts are light-hearted and include silly memes or funny pictures. ButI have always been angry. Always hated cancer. But today, I am in no mood for funny or silly.  I can’t be Mr. Nice-Guy. I’m just so mad.

Today is the funeral for a 10yo boy. TEN YEARS OLD. He was diagnosed with DIPG (brain stem tumor) in June. Less than 9 months ago.  And another 3.5 yo is scheduled to return to Boston (Children’s/DFCI) in a few weeks for a 2nd surgery due to regrowth of a brain tumor.  And a friend has been sitting with her mom during chemo treatments that are wreaking havoc on her body.  And a friend’s sister diagnosed with breast cancer before the age of 40.  And 2 family members of friends who have recently stopped chemo/radiation because their bodies just can’t handle it. There is nothing else for them to do but wait.

It’s too much.  It’s every. single. day.  Another diagnosis. Another request for prayers. Another surgery. Another clinical trial. Another funeral.  So yeah. I’m angry. I’m pissed.  I’m feeling helpless.  And scared.

So I got up this morning, got the kids off to school and hit the treadmill.  The whole time I was thinking ‘what can I do? how can we make this better?’.  I thought on it for about 5 miles and decided I am going back to my all-time favorite request.

DO SOMETHING.

Volunteer. Donate. Help.  Bring a meal to a family who is dealing with cancer treatments. Make a donation to help fight this horrible disease. Volunteer for Rally. Or Cure. Or Komen.  Run a 5K this weekend to benefit a child fighting cancer. Make a phone call to say ‘I’m thinking of you’. Send an email to say ‘I’m here for you. I believe in you. How can I help?’.

I don’t care what you do. And honestly, this is not a post to drum up donations for my fundraising.  I am passionate about raising money for Dana Farber.  Running Boston and raising  money for DFMC is MY ‘DO SOMETHING’.  My ‘DO SOMETHING’ has raised $70K for cancer research in 5 years.  I want you to care enough about something to be angry too. I want you to DO SOMETHING. Find your passion, your cause, your fight. And hold your nose and jump right in! If we each ‘DO SOMETHING’, think about all of the changes that can be made!

I am going to post a few links below. Just some fundraising pages and ideas for people to get involved in different things. These are all cancer-related. That’s where I am going with this today. But I know that there are so many other causes and issues in the world today. I am choosing to focus on just this one (for now).

So, please. I BEG OF YOU. DO SOMETHING. Anything. It doesn’t have to be much. But it needs to be something.  Together, we can make a difference.  And I will try to get back to the funny memes and pictures soon.

Team Carson Go Fund Me

Amazing Grace 5K March 11th

Wyatt Pope You Caring

Lauren’s Rally Fundraiser for Ruby

CURE – Mary Elizabeth’s Story

Curing Kids Cancer

Carri’s DFMC Fundraising Page

 

 

 

2017 OPPORTUNITY DRAWING!!!

It’s finally here!! You’ve all been waiting for it!! It’s my DFMC OPPORTUNITY DRAWING FOR 2017 (Pause for applause and screams!). There are so many incredible prizes this year! Thank you to everyone who donated an item!! Here’s how it works.

Tickets are $10 each or 3 for $25.00. If you work for a company that will corporate match to Dana Farber (http://www.matchinggifts.com/dana-farber/), you get double the tickets. (Donate $25 with a 100% match and get 6 tickets instead of 3). Ticket sales will be open from February 1-7, 2017.

STEP ONE: Donate Here: Carri’s 2017 DFMC Fundraising Page

STEP TWO: Review the prize list (below and sent via email).

STEP THREE: Look for an email from me asking where you want to put your tickets. That’s right! YOU GET TO CHOOSE! You can put all of your tickets on one item…or split them up across several prizes!! YOU CHOOSE!

STEP FOUR: Wait until February 8th when I announce the winners!! This year there are OVER 30 prizes!!! It’s LITERALLY a win-win!!

I have already raised over 4K towards my goal of 17K for 2017! And this week, the top fundraiser will get another $1000 or the chance to get another $500 posted to their account. So if you have been waiting to donate, the time is NOW!!! As an added incentive, DFMC is running (pun intended) a contest which will award $1000 to the team member who raises the most money from February 1-7! YOUR DONATION CAN HELP ME GET THAT EXTRA $1000!!!!

As always, THANK YOU for your ongoing support!!! I could not do this without you!!!

 

2017 PRIZE LIST:

ONE WEEK STAY IN HILTON HEAD, SC (2 winners, 1 week each)  Two-bedroom villa in the South Beach area of Sea Pines.  Walk to the beach, pool and Salty Dog! Sleeps 6-8 people. Date restrictions apply.  Value: $1100.00    https://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p118489

VISA GIFT CARD ($250.00)

JODI CRAINE PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION  Jodi Craine has been capturing incredible images of my family for the last 8 years!! Win a professional photography 20 minute mini-session with 8 images in B+W and color. Expires 9/1/2017. Value: $225.00.  www.jodicrainephotography.com

MATILDA JANE Half-off an item from the Spring 2017 Collection and a $30.00 credit to use while shopping! These clothes and accessories are BEAUTIFUL for women, children and babies!  www.matildajaneclothing.com/kimeilers

AMAZON ECHO DOT  Everyone needs ‘Alexa’ in their life! Value: $50.00.

THE SLEEPY BAKER CUPCAKE BOUQUET One custom cupcake bouquet made by The Sleepy Baker.  Can accommodate a wide-variety of food allergies and preferences. Local delivery (MA) only.  Value: $60.00. http://www.thesleepybaker.com/

PIGTAILS & CREWCUTS  Certificate for 3 haircuts to be redeemed at East Cobb, Roswell or West Cobb Locations. Value $60.00 https://www.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/

HKL DESIGNS $50.00 GIFT CERTIFICATE Custom vinyl decals for clothing, cups, Yeti’s. If you can think of it, she can make a vinyl decal of it! https://www.facebook.com/HKLDesigns

OFF THE CHAIN Adjustable long leather necklace with Amethyst. https://www.facebook.com/OffTheChainAtl/

MERMAID BLANKET  Handmade by Janis Holland of Holland Botanical! This gorgeous blanket is perfect for snuggling up anywhere! ttps://www.etsy.com/shop/HollandBotanical

TOO CRAFTY CHICKS $60.00 GIFT CERTIFICATE These two make beautiful door hangers for all occasions! https://www.facebook.com/DoorAccessory/

ORIGAMI OWL Medium heart locket, 3 charms and 30″ chain.  Value: $73.00  www.fashioncharms.origamiowl.com

RODAN + FIELDS Daily Body Moisturizer, Body Micro-Dermabrasion and REDEFINE pack (night serum, lip renewing serum). Value: $45.00. https://bferguson.myrandf.com/ContactMe

SPARKLE SKIRT These skirts are my favorite running skirts…ever! The prize is a size MEDIUM of the swing skirt in the ‘Schoolgirl’ print!  http://sparkleskirts.com/

YUMMY DELICIOUS COOKIES BY WHIMSICAL CREATIONS One dozen cookies custom cookies. Order available after 2/14/2017. https://www.etsy.com/shop/WhimsicalOriginalsDB

STELLA & DOT $50.00 CREDIT $50.00 to be used at Teresa’s Stella & Dot Page www.stelladot.com/teresaisabel

 

MANDI MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY Mini-session (20 minutes) in Roswell, MA with up to 5 people. Includes 10 digital images to download. Value: $250.00  www.mandimitchellphotography.com

WALTON RAIDER CHASE 5K ENTRY One adult entry to the Raider Chase 5K on Saturday February 11, 2017.  Value: $30.00  http://www.waltontfxc.com/raiderchase/

PET PORTRAIT BY SHELLY HELMS FLEISHMAN 6×6 canvas original painting of your pet.  Value: $85.00 www.shfstudio.net

LULAROE LEGGINGS – ONE SIZE – JENNIFER WOJTCZAK Two pairs of Lularoe leggings. One Size fits size 0-12.  (to be selected from Jennifer’s inventory). Value: $50.00.  Jennifer Wotjczak Lularoe

LULAROE LEGGINGS – TALL CURVY – NANCY FERGUSON Two pairs of TALL/CURVY Leggings (see pictures). Tall Curvy fits size 12-22. Nancy Ferguson Lularoe

LULAROE KIDS LEGGINGS FROM LORI MORRISON2 pairs of KIDS Lularoe Leggings (see picture). Kids fits size 2T – 7.Lori Morrison Lularoe

LULAROE  FROM ANGIE DAVENPORT  $40.00 credit to be used to shopfrom Angie’s inventory.  Angie Davenport Lularoe

 

LULAROE SARAH CARDIGAN FROM ASHLEY JENKINS One Sarah Cardigan to be selected from Ashley’s inventory. Ashley Jenkins Lularoe

HAIRCUT AND KERASTASE TREATMENT FROM LAUREN BROCKWAYOne of Impulse salon’s best stylist! A haircut and kerastase treatment. Value: $135.00 www.impulse-salon.com

UPTOWN SCRATCH LICE-KILLER PACKAGE  The dreaded word…LICE! Scary but Uptown Scratch is here to help! This tote bag includes 1 Nit Free Terminator Comb, 1 bottle of Killer Mousse and a bottle of wine (to help you get through it!). All put together in a great tote bag!  www.uptownscratch.com

QUILT CRUSH $100 Store Credit towards the Quilt Crush Etsy shop. Custom quilts including t-shirt quilts!  https://www.etsy.com/shop/QuiltCrush

ZUCCA BAR & PIZZERIA $50.00 Gift Certificate to Zucca Pizzeria & Bar in Smyrna, GA.  Delicious pizza, calzones and other Italian dishes. www.zuccapizza.com

ARBONNE  Pampermint foot cream and foot scrub, Cellular renewal masque and Renewing Body Gelee. Donated by Kate Beaty. http://www.arbonne.com/

ESSENTIAL OIL SET  OrthoSport Massage Oil, Young Living Deep Relief, Breathe Again.  Oils essential for any athlete! Value: $115.00. ttp://elizabethblumin.marketingscents.com/

EC KAKES Two-tier cake (fondant or buttercream) to feed up to 25 people.  Value: $75-100. East Cobb area only. 5 days ordering time required. Follow #eckakes on Instagram!

 

2016…by the numbers

Happy New Year and welcome to 2017!  Every year as we flip the calendar (who still uses a wall calendar??!!), I like to look back on my year in running and tally it up. It’s a great way to see what I have accomplished and help set new goals!

1 – Age-group award (2nd place MBES 5K)

2  – Half-Marathons (NOLA and Publix)

2 – Marathons (Boston and Marine Corps)

3- Countries where I ran (USA, Mexico, BVI)

4– Other races (1 15K and 3 5Ks)

7 – States where I ran (MA, GA, SC, FL, VA, DC, NC)

24 – Average miles run per week

185 – Runs recorded in dailymile

1250 – Miles run in 2016

7068 – Miles run since 1/1/2011

10,000 – burpees completed at IronTribe (might be a *slight* exaggeration)

16,888  – Dollars raised for DFMC 2016

9,499,892 – Steps take since June 7, 2015 (per fitbit)

And, that’s why I am so tired! No, really. It’s pretty cool to look back at it after a whole year. I get caught up in training or the daily workouts so I don’t realize what I’m doing. I am proud of another year on my feet.  As I have said many times before, I never fancied myself a ‘runner’ but after 7000 miles, I guess I’m there.

For 2017, I already have a few races on the calendar (Hot Chocolate 15K, Publix 1/2 and BOSTON).  I am looking forward to another year of training smart, running with friends and remembering to enjoy the journey.

I will be kick-starting my 2017 DFMC fundraising with my annual opportunity drawing! Stay tuned for more details in the coming weeks! I am so appreciative of the ongoing support and encouragement that I receive as part of this team and in my fundraising efforts! If you would like to support my goal of raising $17,000 for Innovative Basic Cancer Research (100% of all donations go directly to research): http://www.rundfmc.org/2017/carrig

I hope everyone had a happy holiday season and I wish you all the best in 2017!

 

 

 

Happy Runiversary to me!

Today is my RUNIVERSARY!

I ran my first race at the 2010 Mt. Bethel Elementary School Fun Run on November 6, 2010. It was my first 5K. First time running outdoors. I didn’t wear a stopwatch, never mind a Garmin. I don’t think I ran with music. Or any special gear. I just got up and ran.  I finished in 28:10 (thank you Facebook ‘on this day’).  I had been running a lit bit on the treadmill for a couple of months before the 5K but nothing more than 3 miles.  After the 5K,  I thought ‘hmm, I kind of like this’. So I started to train for the Peachtree Road Race (10K in July) but ended up running a 10K in February.  And then my first half-marathon in June. And then my first full marathon in June one year later. And the rest is history, right?

I started logging my miles run on January 1, 2011. I thought it would be a fun way to keep track of the miles and help with my training as well. I use DailyMile which I started out logging on my computer and then eventually on their app. I just put in my running miles, not walking or hiking or elliptical or anything else.

6890

That is my total mileage since 1/1/2011. That averages to 1150 miles per year or almost 100 miles a month.  Am I the fastest runner? No. Is this mileage high for a distance runner? No.  But I have been consistent with this ‘habit’ for 6 years.  Before I started running, I hardly exercised regularly.  Am I the most fit person because I run? No. But I know that I would not be nearly as fit and healthy if I didn’t run and workout.

Running has brought me so much more than just health benefits.

Friendship. For a long time, I always ran by myself. And that was fine. But in the last few years, I have been running with friends and realized that it makes it way more fun…and the miles fly by. I love my running friends and look forward to our miles of ‘therapy’.

Purpose.  When I was accepted to the Dana Farber Marathon Challenge team in November 2012, my life changed.  I started fundraising for the 2013 Boston Marathon. I met incredible teammates and received so much support from family and friends. That support has continued on to this being my 5th year on the DFMC team.  Cancer sucks.  If I can run a few miles and raise funds to DO SOMETHING to help families touched by this disease, then I will continue to run.

Pride.  Whether I am running 5 miles around my neighborhood or 26.2 miles around Chicago, I am proud.  I hear people say ‘I could never be a runner’. Um….look at me. Do I look like a marathoner?  We come in all shapes and sizes!  My family still teases me about not ‘running back quickly’ when I played defense in soccer as a kid.  I never ran a mile until I was 36 years old.  I never thought I could be a runner either…until I started running.  I have learned that if I believe it, I can do it.  It’s not always easy but I am always proud of what I accomplish.

Yesterday, I ran the 2016 Mt. Bethel Elementary Fun Run 5K.  I finished in 25:34.  And because I’m old and it’s a small race, it was good enough for 2nd in my age group.  I will take it! Every run is not the best run.  But every run is a gift. I will keep running. I will keep adding to that mileage total as long as these legs will carry me.

But not today. Today is the first Sunday in months that I will NOT run.  AT ALL.  Today I will rest and recover from my marathon a week ago (more about that another time). And I’ll know that NOT running today is the best way to celebrate!

 

http://www.rundfmc.org/2017/carrig

 

Boston 2016

I know that I did not keep up with the blog as much this year as in the past but I had to at least recap my marathon weekend.  I write this recap mostly for myself, to preserve the memories. So feel free to just skip through the pictures!!

It was a BEAUTIFUL Boston weekend. I mean, the kind of weather that made me think ‘Why did we ever move away?’.  Blue skies. Sunny.  The city was bustling with marathoners and tourists.  I knew as soon as I landed at Logan that it was going to be a great weekend!

I went straight to the expo and DFMC check-in from the airport.  Maneuvering through the expo with my luggage was less than fun so I didn’t spend too much time (or money). I picked up my bib and shirt, found my name on the wall and then headed to DFMC check-in.  It always feels like coming home when I get to the windows! I got my Pace$etter patch for hitting $13.1 status and my SIX t-shirts I won in various fundraising contests throughout the season.  Then I headed out to Copley for lunch and to walk around the finish line for a bit.

I spent Saturday night at Devin and Jenn’s house and enjoyed time with my parents and my newphews.  I had my pre-race-carb-load dinner with my dear friend Liz and got to see Shira and Stacey for lunch on Sunday before I headed into Boston! I always love the QT I get with family and friends before the race!1

 

On Sunday night, my mom and I attended the DFMC Pasta Party. It’s always my favorite part of the weekend (well, other than finishing the marathon!).  It is an emotional rollercoaster but so incredible to see 500+ teammates and their friends/families in one room.  I only know most of my team through social media so it’s great to finally ‘meet’ people too!  After dinner, I headed up to my hotel room and tried to settle into bed early as my alarm clock was set for 4am!

Well, I wish I could say I slept restfully until that 4am alarm. But I slept from about 10-11:45pm and then tossed and turned before giving up at 3:45am! What’s another 15 minutes, right? I got dressed, grabbed my stuff and met my team in the lobby for the walk over to the busses at the Common.  I sat with my teammate Kerrie from NH and met a few other teammates on the LOOOOONG ride out to Hopkinton!  DFMC rents a church for our team every year and they stock it with snacks, drinks, first aid supplies, and more! It always seems like we will be there FOREVER but the time really flies by. Loved catching up with Janice again this year too! We met on the bus to Hopkinton in 2014 and roomed together before the marathon in 2015!

And before I knew it, we were heading out to the start corral. From the minute I stepped outside, I was hot.  It was sunny with no wind and warm temperatures. I felt like I was baking while I was waiting to start.  Tedy Bruschi was the starter for our corral (GO PATS) which was very cool.  I headed across the start line just after 11:15.  I love the first couple of miles as the corral thins out and you can see all of the different charity runners.  There are so many groups represented!  I picked my college friend Melissa out of the crowd in Ashland(sorry I missed Jen Duane this year!)  The crowds were great. It was a wonderful race day for spectators.  As usual, I had my different ‘crews’ of fans along the course and it is always amazing to see them!

Jillian in Natick Center with another great sign.

Stacey, Shira, Liz (and her whole family and neighborhood) at the top of the hill at Mile 11. Not sure why I was clutching my chest but for your information, they’re real and they’re spectacular!

The miles through Wellesley always fly by and it was wonderful to see Emily, Ellie and Isabella at mile 15.5.  Good thing Emily is always down for a sweaty hug (although I swear it was mostly water because I dumped so much over my head).

 

The Newton Hills were hellish as usual but the crowds kept me going. All day was a constant ‘GO CARRI’ or ‘GO DANA FAHBAH’.  There is so much support from the people lining the course. I gave lots of high fives to kids of all ages. Took all sorts of cups of water, sponges, wet cloths and even a popscicle along the way!  It really is a 26.2 mile standing ovation!!  I randomly saw Neil’s college roommate Steve who I had not seen since our wedding on one of the hills!  They always seem endless but then you are at the top of Heartbreak.  I loved coming into Cleveland Circle and seeing Lindsay and Ashley!  As always, Helen and Alan were standing at Mile 24.5 with their ’89’!  I passed too quickly for Alan to capture my annual Helen-Hug!

 

Then up and over Mile 25 where the greatest cheer section is always located–DFMC!  This is always such an energy boost. Lots of high-fives, a huge hug from Sandra who stretches herself WAY over the rail.  Many of the patient partners stand at this spot too.  It is probably my 2nd favorite spot along the course (the first being the FINISH LINE!)  And as soon as you pass that amazing crowd, you know you only have about a mile to go.

I always get choked up when I pass the spot where I was stopped in 2013. It’s an involuntary reaction.  I never take that last half-mile for granted because I know too well that it’s not guaranteed.  But before you know it, I’m making the right on Hereford, left on Boylston.  My Mom and Devin are standing just past the Mile 26 marker for my final hugs of the marathon!

 

My last boost when I heard them say ‘Carri Gaudion from Marietta, GA’.  And then I’m done! I finished my 6th marathon.  My 4th Boston.  Having that medal put over my shoulders, getting my heat sheet, waiting for my Mom and Devin to navigate the barriers, eating my peanut butter M&Ms. It does not get any better than that!!!

It was another fabulous marathon weekend and I would not change ONE THING about it! I am proud of myself for conquering 26.2 miles (again) and for raising $16,888 (!!!!) for Dana Farber!!  I am still hoping to hit $17K if anyone has not had a chance to donate! Carri’s DFMC Fundraising Page.  Thank you to everyone who supported me with a donation or words of encouragement.  It is always overwhelming to read all of the messages, texts and emails after the marathon.  I could not do this without your support! And as long as the DFMC team will have me, I plan to be back in Hopkinton on April 17, 2017 for the 121st running of the Boston Marathon!!

Runship

 

THIS IS RUNSHIP…

Two incredible elite female marathoners who ran every step of the Olympic Trials Marathon together.  Amy Cragg did not want to leave Shalane Flanagan and she didn’t…until the last possible moment. And she was there to catch her at the finish line.

THIS IS RUNSHIP…

Connecting with your DFMC teammate on Facebook, finding each other via text message, meeting for the first time in the start corral (with a big hug) and running EVERY step of 13.1 miles together.

THIS IS RUNSHIP…

Finding your friend at mile 15.5 of her marathon and jumping in for a mile (or 3).  Wishing you could continue on with her but knowing she is strong enough to make it on her own.

THIS IS RUNSHIP…

Watching two friends carry each other to the finish line of a marathon.  They both struggled at different times. They both wanted to quit more than once. But they stuck together and crossed the finish line holding hands.

 

THIS IS RUNSHIP…

Start lines, finish lines, it really doesn’t matter. But there are always smiles.

 

THIS IS RUNSHIP…

People who will meet you at 6am to run and those who will stand out in the rain all day to watch you run by for 1 minute.  People who don’t care about sweaty hugs or hearing your running stories for the 500th time.

 THIS IS RUNSHIP…

 

THIS IS RUNSHIP…

Just a brunette and a blonde with an unbreakable bond.  Someone  who can tell by the tone of your text that you have had THAT KIND OF DAY and maybe you are at THAT POINT of your marathon training.  And who says so much in just a few words. And who brings you peace when your head is full of noise.

 

Running + Friendship = RUNSHIP.  It’s not just about running with friends. It’s about the VILLAGE.  The support system.  It’s about a bond.  It’s about inspiration. Motivation.  It’s about comfort and understanding.  It’s about letting go.  Trying new things.  It’s about asking for help.  Listening.  It’s about building each other up. Celebrating our victories.   Moving on from our defeats.  It’s about remembering why.  It’s about laughter. And tears.  It’s about passion.  Believing.  Finding strength that we never knew we had.  It’s about me. It’s about all of us.

To those pictured above…and to the many more people who support me in a million different ways…thank you for your RUNSHIP.  I will never be able to fully express how much it means to me.

 

http://www.rundfmc.org/2016/carrig

 

 

 

Why I am your most annoying friend on Facebook and proud of it

I am annoying.

There. I said it. I put it out there. I said what you are all thinking.  The facebook posts. The emails. Instagram pictures.  Opportunity Drawings. Super Bowl Squares. March Madness brackets.  And let’s not forget all the hashtags.  ALL RUNNING.  ALL FUNDRAISING. ALL THE TIME.  It’s all SUPER ANNOYING.

I get it.  My friend Nicole said I am a ‘shameless fundraiser’.  I take it as a compliment.  I’m getting it printed on a t-shirt (ha ha).  If posting a picture of Seanie in a princess dress grabs your attention and gets you to my fundraising page, well then, it worked!! I don’t care. I’m not ashamed or embarrassed.  People say they could never ask people for money like I do.  I don’t think of it that way.  I’m not asking for money for ME. I’m asking for money for anyone who has ever been touched by Cancer. Sadly, that’s pretty much all of us. If it takes being annoying and spamming your inbox to raise awareness and funds needed to fight this awful disease, you better believe I’m going to keep doing it!

When I send out my emails, I sometimes get responses from people saying that they would like to give, but they cannot at this time. Sometimes it’s someone who has donated in the past. Sometimes it is someone new.  Just the fact that they take the time to send me a message, means the world to me.  I love when my inbox is full of donation notifications from DFMC.  But I also love all of the words of support and encouragement that I have received on this journey.  That motivates me.  That inspires me.  That makes me want to continue with DFMC year after year.

 

This is MY passion. But it might not be your passion. My hope is that even if you are not donating to DFMC, you are finding your passion and donating somewhere. I WISH I could donate to every fundraiser, youcaring, or gofundme page that crosses my email and facebook wall.  I sometimes read these stories and want to say ‘GIVE TO THEM, NOT TO ME’.  There are so many families touched by cancer or other diseases. Too many people suffering.  I cannot help them all and I know you can’t either.  But my hope is that MY PASSION and MY JOURNEY with DFMC can inspire others to GIVE. To VOLUNTEER.  TO DO SOMETHING. To help others.  That is what it’s all about.

I am VERY CLOSE to my $13.1K goal which would put me at the next Pace$etter level with DFMC!  I surpassed $50K for my overall fundraising since I started in 2013.  Did I ever think this was possible? No. It’s beyond all expectations. When I started in 2013, I thought I would just barely hit my goal of $5K and I doubled it.  And each year I have raised more and more.  My fundraising goals keep climbing. Thanks to all of you.  Whether you give $5 or $500, or if you just send a message saying ‘I’m proud of you’ or ‘You got this’, it makes a huge difference. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND FOR BELIEVING IN ME!!

If you would like to support me on my journey to the ULTIMATE FINISH LINE–a world without cancer: Carri’s DFMC Fundraising Page

 

Run the race

Yesterday I attended the memorial service for Stephen Kruse.  I met his wife Christi about 7-8 years ago when I was taking exercise classes at JFBC.  We chatted and laughed our way through Susan’s bootcamp classes for a few years and then moved over to workout at WPF.   And there I was yesterday, back at JFBC to celebrate the too-short life of her husband, Stephen.  Stephen was diagnosed with melanoma and fought courageously for 3 years.  I never met Stephen but yesterday the room was full of stories, laughter, and tears.   Also a lot of ‘War Eagle’!  I was glad to hear that Stephen was never in pain, that he was constantly surrounded by loved ones,  and that he was at peace with his cancer diagnosis.

The minister spoke about what Stephen would tell us if he could still talk to us.   He said he thinks Stephen would tell everyone that our time on Earth is so fleeting and that we should RUN to what comes next.  He used the word ‘run’ and talked about ‘running the race’.  I sat there, thinking about his words.   Now, although I have different religious beliefs, this message really spoke to me.  And I haven’t stopped thinking about it.

Life is short and tomorrow is not a guarantee.  Yes it’s cliché, but it’s true.  No one wakes up and says ‘today is the day I get cancer’.  No one thinks they are going to lose a loved one way too soon.  We all think it isn’t going to happen to us. To our parent. To our child. To our friend.  But then it does.  And we think about how we didn’t say the right things or hug enough or laugh enough.  We think about how we are living our own lives.  We might have regrets about how we are RUNNING THE RACE.

So, it’s all our of our control, right? There’s nothing we can do. We can’t change the course of what is going to happen. That’s someone else’s job.  How are we supposed to change it? How can we make a difference? How can we do our best to RUN THE RACE?

I am RUNNING THE RACE.  I have made a choice.   I am trying to make a difference. Set an example.  I want to have an impact.  One mile at a time, one dollar at a time.  I want to inspire others.  It’s great when someone says ‘I’m so proud of you.’ or ‘You are amazing’.  But what I really love is when I see someone inspired to make a change. To change the way they are RUNNING THE RACE.   It doesn’t have to be raising money.  It can be something as simple as bringing a meal to a family going through a difficult time.  Or picking up the phone to call someone to find out how they are doing.  The minister spoke about how many people called Stephen or stopped by to see him.  Sometimes the smallest gestures make the biggest impact.  We can all do these things. We can all make the most of our time and create change.  We all have the ability to make an impact but we have to make the choice.

Now, I am also LITERALLY RUNNING THE RACE when I go back to Boston in April. And I RUN THE RACE every time I lace up my sneakers and hit the road.  There are no easy miles.  I am lucky for every step I take.  And especially on the days that I don’t want to run, I remind myself WHY. And WHO.  I run because I can.  I RUN THE RACE for those who cannot.    I have worn Stephen’s name on my DFMC singlet the last 2 years and his name will once again grace my back on April 18th.  I hate moving another name from ‘in honor of’ to ‘in memory of’ but I will do my best to make him and his family proud that day.

I know I have touched on this topic before but it really hit home yesterday. Every time the minister said the word ‘run’.   And I know Christi says she doesn’t believe in coincidence.  So I won’t either.

 

www.rundfmc.org/2016/carrig

 

 

Who loves prizes?!

It’s that time!! I know everyone LOVES to support me just for the idea of giving money to an incredibly important organization. We all hate cancer!! BUT…if you can win something while making that donation, isn’t that much more fun?! So, I am happy to announce my 2016 DFMC OPPORTUNITY DRAWING!

Please.  Try to contain your excitement.

Here’s how it works.  For every donation of $10, you get 1 ticket.  For every donation of $25, you get 3 tickets. And YOU DECIDE where to put your tickets. If you only want Hilton Head, put all your tickets there. If you want Hilton Head, the Amazon gift card and the Bruins tickets, split up your tickets! As soon as you make your donation, you will receive an email from me asking where to put your tickets.  It’s as easy as that!

All donations made between Thursday January 21st and Monday January 25th will be eligible for the opportunity drawing. The winners will be selected and announced on Tuesday January 26th.

Donate here: www.rundfmc.org/2016/carrig

And the best part!! Here’s the list of prizes:

• TWO 1-WEEK STAYS IN HILTON HEAD

  Yes, 2 winners will be selected (cannot be the same person winning both weeks)! Seven nights in a 2BR, 2.5BA Sea Pines Villa. Walk to the beach and the South Beach Marina. This is the view from our covered deck!  More photos here: 1597 Port Villa  Date restrictions apply.  Value: $1000.00

 

 

• ONE $250 VISA GIFT CARD.

  Cash baby. Spend it anyway you like!

• BRUINS TICKETS. 

  Two tickets. Tampa Bay Lightning at Boston Bruins at TD Garden, Boston, MA Sun, 02/28/2016, 6:30 p.m. EST Balcony End 306 Row 5

• CUPCAKE BOUQUET FROM THE SLEEPY BAKER

  One custom cupcake bouquet made by The Sleepy Baker.  Can accommodate a wide-variety of food allergies and preferences. Local delivery (MA) only.  Value: $50  www.thesleepybaker.com

 

• JODI CRAINE PHOTOGRAPHY MINI-SESSION

  Jodi Craine has been capturing incredible images of my family for the last 8 years!! Win a professional photography 20 minute mini-session with 8 images in B+W and color. Expires 9/1/2016. Value: $225.00.  www.jodicrainephotography.com

 

• TAKEOFF PERFORMANCE – FOUR CERTIFICATES FOR 2 FREE TRAINING SESSIONS

Four individual winners for 2 sessions each/  TAKEOFF Performance Systems LLC. tailors around the entire life of an athlete; Fortiying the athletes physical, mental and emotional health as well. Daily sessions focusing on speed, agility, strength, sport-specific kills and mental toughness.  Value: $60 each. http://takeoffperformance.com/

• HKL DESIGNS $50 CERTIFICATE AND 30 OZ YETI TUMBLER

Tricia designs and creates my incredible DFMC singlet every year! If it’s not moving, she will personalize it! Monograms, logos, characters…you name it and she can do it!!  Custom Designs–Gifts for Friends, Teachers, Kids, Party Favors, Weddings & more.  And this comes with a 30 oz Yeti tumbler that you can have personalized!!! Value: $90.

https://www.facebook.com/HKLDesigns/

• STELLA & DOT INSPIRATION BANGLES

I have had wonderful Stella & Dot parties as part of my fundraising for the last  few years.   I have been able to buy lots of amazing jewelry. I love these bangles and their messages!  Set of 3 bangles (Silver- Blessed, Gold – Love, RoseGold- Always). Value $150.  And I highly recommend connecting with Kelye to host a party or just shop!!

http://www.stelladot.com/sites/kelye/profile/?lc=en_us

 

 

• IRON TRIBE FITNESS 101 SESSION (2 winners)

One month of 101 which is a great introduction to Iron Tribe Fitness. The winner will get a 101 session (30 days) and each winner can bring a friend to try 101 as well.  Iron Tribe Fitness is a simple system of body movements, personal coaching, and healthy nutrition that makes you a better athlete. Which makes you a better, more fit and healthier person.  http://www.irontribefitness.com/locations/east-cobb/

 

• PIGTAILS & CREWCUTS

One certificate for 2 kids haircuts.  East Cobb, Roswell or West Cobb locations only.     Value: $40.   http://www.pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/

 

• RODAN + FIELDS SKINCARE

Redefine Eye Cloths.  REDEFINE Eye Cloths serve a dual purpose, removing makeup without tugging and depositing cosmetic ingredients to combat the visible signs of aging.   Check out all of the amazing skincare items via Brooke’s page.  Value: $30.

https://bferguson.myrandf.com/ContactMe

 

• THIRTY-ONE MEDIUM UTILITY TOTES

Two medium utility totes (one red, one black). Great for the beach, back of your car, ballpark and more! I use these for everything!  Shop with Kristy Smith to find more amazing items! Value: $30 each.   https://www.mythirtyone.com/kristyhsmith/shop/Home

 

• DIXIE DELIGHTS $25 GIFT CARD

If you are not reading Amanda’s blog, you are missing out! She writes great articles on home decorating, renovations, creative crafts and gifts, and her all-time favorite place…DISNEY!  Her shop is full of notebooks, autograph books, gift tags, and gift sets! Read her blog (http://dixiedelightsonline.com/) or shop on etsy (https://www.etsy.com/shop/DixieDelightsBlog)

 

• HANDMADE JEWELRY

Love finding out friends have incredible talents!! Two pairs of sterling silver handmade earrings created by Jessica Renard.

 

• MATILDA JANE BLANKET

Kim Eilers introduced me to Matilda Jane and my daughter is hooked! Gorgeous clothing and accessories for girls, tweens and women.  This luxurioius blanket was an item we received with our last order and you cannot buy it! Value $75-90. www.matildajaneclothing.com  Kim’s TK is 871 if you are interested in placing an order!

Here we go…

Alright, 2016. Here we go.

Jumping right into the thick of marathon training and fundraising after a great 2 week vacation with the family.  I completed my first long run of 2016 (12 miles on Sunday) and the plan is for 14 this week.  I am at the ‘let’s do this’ phase of training. I’m excited. Enthusiastic.  Refreshed.  I’m going to hold on to this feeling as long as I can because I know that the long runs are just going to get longer.  I have decided to go back to NOLA for the Rock N Roll Half in February and I won’t be running Hot Chocolate or Publix 1/2 this year.  That’s my plan…for now…

Fundraising is AMAZING so far!! $4799.78 as of this morning not including pending corporate matches! I am fairly certain that is the highest my total has been this early in 2016 EVER!  I have had a tremendous outpouring of support already and I know it will continue!  I had a fun opportunity drawing for two tickets to the Patriots/Chief playoff game on Saturday.   Since Neil and Ryan can’t go to the game, it was a fun way to find someone else to support a great cause and a great team. GO PATS!!

Stay tuned for details about my upcoming opportunity drawing including a one week stay in Hilton Head, Amazon gift card, cupcake bouquet from The Sleepy Baker, items from Stella & Dot and Rodan & Fields, kids’ haircut from Pigtails & Crewcuts, training session at Takeoff performance and MORE!!

I need to write thank you notes (it’s on the to do list for the weekend) but here is my list of thanks to those who have supported me so far for DFMC 2016:

Amy & Brian Staub, Quin & Angie Hatfield, Barnet Cohen, Brendan Carr ( Winner of the Pats tickets!!), Brooke Buettner, Cathi Muckerman, Cindi Melanson, Corey & David Penn, Cristina Cataldo, Crystal Santuosso, Dan Aronson, Dawn Toporek, Heather Callahan, Heidi Bozzelli, Hillary & Jeff Stiskin, Jackie Nass,  Jennifer Duane, Jordon Coker, Kasey Bittner, Kate Frost, Kelly Fiedler, Kelye Avitabile, Kenny Gersh, Kimia Arjmand, Kylie Williams, Lindsey Thompson, Liz &; Eric Berman, Mark Lisnow, Tracy & Mark Saperstein, Matthew Growney, Melissa Browher, Nicole Eliason, Patrick Gaas, Peggy Schrammel, Penny Schwartz, Rachel Daniels, Rachel Naggar, Ray Rahmberg, Richard & Patti Abramowitz, Shira Citron, Stacy Emanual, Steve Gianquitti, Sue Larsen, Susan Sharrow, Suzanne Grant, Tara & Greg Ross, Tim Barnett and Tim & Michele Diffendall

I know this is going to be a great training and fundraising season!!

http://www.rundfmc.org/2016/carrig