I'm a Runner

Only recently have I considered myself a runner.

Certain things in my life I have a tendency to do through phases.
Whether it was the gym, being socially active, knitting, reading, making jewelry, staying out late, it's all gone through stages.

Running has always been there.

Because of the recent event in Boston, I've looked at the running community a bit differently.
Runners, no matter what speed, weight, height, age, ethnicity- are all out there to do one thing. RUN.
But it's what happens during those runs that

I went out yesterday to complete a short but sweet trail run. One that I have done countless times and each time there are always several runners.
There is something about passing a runner running the opposite direction. No words need to be spoken, but just a glance, a nod, a smile is always portrayed. It's as if its an understanding of what we are here for.
As I was saying, yesterday, like another day- I went for a run.
I see a white shirt coming down the trail, a white shirt identical to mine.

A Team in Training shirt.

The reaction was almost as if seeing another family member, a friend that I have known for years. We smiled, gave each other a high five and a big "GO TEAM".

I don't know her.

But, like her, I am a runner and most importantly- a part of the TNT family.

This Saturday...
2 days and some odd hours away...

I'll be running my first Ultra marathon.
50 miles.

If you would've asked me a few years ago what my goals today would be... never would I have DREAMED what they answer would truly be.
Asking me then I'd have said something along the lines of fashion.

Now? My goals today?
Completing my first Ultra Marathon of course!
Qualifying for Boston Marathon.
Completing an Iron Man.
Maybe at some point obtaining somewhat of a career.... But I'm young- give me a break!

These goals are all within my grasp. My coaches and team mates have helped me believe that anything I dream is achievable.



Well.
This is it.

What I've trained for the past five months.
50 miles.

Crossing a 50 mile ultra finish line... it all boils down to YOU, your training, your perseverance, your passion, and your race day management. You must have the ability to overcome obstacles, discomfort, exhaustion, and self doubt.More than 50,000 strides are required to complete the journey, and there's no faking it- no matter what the pace!!!
You WILL be tested along the way, and your end result will ultimately depend on how badly you want it!!

Less than .01% of the world's population can claim the accomplishment.

I'm ready to rock this race!









Till Next time,
Peace, love and happiness

Happy April

Your friends don’t understand what you see in running. They just see how running drags you home early from the best parties, and how it kicks you to curb the next morning before the crack dawn. They just see the missed lunches, curious stares and constant mind games. And if they don’t see the other stuff by now, odds are they never will.

- New Balance



I'm currently, can you guess?
Well, I'm sitting here, like I usually am, and I'm looking at the date.

April 1st 2013.

In less the 4 weeks...
In 26 days...
In 624 hours...
In 53,913,600... 53,913,659... 53,913,658 and on seconds...
till I'm at the starting line.

The starting line of my first 50 mile race,
my first official Ultramarathon.



I don't know if I'm nervous.
I don't know if I'm scarred.
I don't know if I'm excited.

I do know that I'm prepared.
I'm ready.
Both mentally and physically.


I don't know if it's because of all the Trail Running podcast I've been listening to but I'm feeling pretty confident.

I can honestly say, my training, my teammates, and my coaches have made this experience incredible.
And I'm looking forward to continuing this experience, continuing to run, and continuing to race- ultras!



You were in a relationship with running. A love/hate relationship. Running kicks you out of a warm and cosy bed into a cold hard world. Running calls you at all hours of the night. Running gets you up at the crack of dawn and keeps you at practice long after play has left the building. Every day with running is a question of your commitment. And running’s not afraid to ask. Yes my friend it is a complex and torrid affair. It is a constant balance, a balance between joy and pain, work and play, a balance between love and hate.

- New Balance


HELP ME REACH MY GOAL HERE

Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness

Leona Divide Preview Weekend

What am I doing?
I think I'll just turn around...

I look ahead.
Breath in.
Breath out.

I can do this.

I continue onward and upward (quite literally).

You know what sounds good right about now?
Sleeping in.
Laying by the beach.
Taking the new pup on a walk.
Going to the farmers market.

In all honesty, anything and everything sounds better.

My muscles ache in places I didn't know possible.

But I continue, onward and upward.

Breath in.
Breath out.

I continue on my negativity throughout this onward and upward quest which is absolutely not the best thing right now.
But it's what I've focused on.

I'm questioning my recent choices in life.
I'm questioning my sanity.

Maybe my friends and family were right?
Maybe this is just not for me?
Maybe I AM crazy?
Maybe, oh maybe, I just can't do it.

I pound on my quads to wake up.
FOCUS I tell myself.

WHO are you?
Who is this negative person?

I never invite Debbie Downer to visit. She has been banned from paying unexpected visits.
Only I can determine how this goes,
and you know what!
I'm going to knock the socks off this shizz.

I think of why I'm doing this.
I think of Coach Carlos mission moment.
I think of my dad.

So I continue.
Onward and upward.

But I continue... to run.
(cue inspirational music)



I look back at the Leona Divide Preview Weekend and know that I was given a rude awakening.
50 Miles is not a joke, you have to take it seriously- your health, your fitness, and definitely your mentality.

Overall, It was a successful weekend. Yes, Saturday was a bad day for me.
But I think it had a lot to do with being unprepared and honestly, just having a bad day.

Sunday on the other hand- it reminded me of why I signed up with Team in Training, why I signed up for an Ultra Marathon.

I love to run.

My coaches really planned an excellent weekend. Their time, dedication and overall ultra-AH-mazingness is inspiring.
They are the icing on our ultra cake.
The chips in our ultra chocolate chip cookie.
They are just amazing people that make life just a little bit sweeter and without them- well, I obviously wouldn't be running... far.

So, in 30 days I plan on proving some people wrong.
I will prove to myself and everyone else that this, what I'm doing, it's right.
I will prove that yes I'm crazy, but for all the right reason,
and I will prove to myself that even what looks impossible, is actually obtainable, and that I can do anything I set my mind to.


In 30 days, I will have accomplished my first 50 mile run.

It's absolutely NUTS.

I think of how I got here.
The Leukemia Lymphoma Society, Team in Training, and my Father.

Without them, who knows where I'd be now.
Who knows who'd I be now.

With them by my side, shoot. I'm running Ultra Marathons.
What's next.
100 milers?
Iron Mans?


I JUST HAVE TO MEET MY FUNDRAISING MINIMUM HERE




30 Days till I see you again Leona Divide.



Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness.

Channel Island

Growing up in California, I've never heard of Channel Islands.



Until recently.



Thought it would make a great adventure to go check it out.


Turned out to be beautiful, beautifully windy, but still beautiful.




We began this adventure in the front of the boat.
It was a bit chilly I must confess.
I was very happy that I wore layers because boy did I need them!

The boat went as fast as it could, going over small waves, sometimes almost flying.
My stomach had a roller coaster feeling- but sick I was not.

I quite enjoyed the ride!

Once we landed on the dock, I think we realized HOW windy it actually was.
Despite the wind, the sun was shinning and the birds chirping- it was going to be a good day.



We hiked
ran
walked
stopped
took pictures

it was breath taking.




Twenty-five miles off the coast of southern California lies Santa Cruz Island, the largest of California’s eight Channel Islands. More than 1,000 species of plants and animals inhabit the island’s high peaks, deep canyons, pastoral valleys, and 77 miles of dramatic coastline.

Once on the brink of ecological collapse, Santa Cruz Island now offers visitors a glimpse of what southern California used to be like hundreds of years ago.

After three decades of tireless work, Santa Cruz Island has emerged as a leading example for successful island restoration and innovative conservation. Today, the Conservancy and its partners are focused on preserving the island’s unique plants and animals and sharing lessons learned in island restoration with other island conservation projects around the world.

Island History
When The Nature Conservancy purchased most of Santa Cruz Island in 1978, it was an island in crisis.

Feral pigs and sheep — descendants of introduced domestic livestock — overgrazed the island, severely altering its natural systems and landscape.
Ten species of plants and animals faced extinction, including the Santa Cruz Island fox — the island’s top predator for thousands of years.
A new island predator — the golden eagle — moved in from the mainland to prey on piglets and island foxes, wiping out 95% of the fox population in less than a decade.
The island’s native bald eagles, which are highly territorial and prey on fish rather than foxes, had been wiped out by DDT contamination nearly five decades ago, leaving golden eagles free to devastate the fox population.

Did You Know...?
Santa Cruz Island Harbors:

more than 650 vascular plant species (75% of which are native)
over 200 species of birds
8 species of reptiles and amphibians
7 mammal species (3 of which are bats)
12 species found nowhere else on Earth





It was a good day.

Now, I have to go back in order to kayak, snorkel and camp!


Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness

Eat (A) vegan and run

Part of my daily rituals when I come into work is to check all social medias which include but not limited to:

Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram
Facebook

I must admit that I have never truly been a Pinterest fan. Why? When I can just google the same things that people are pinning.
I felt as though there is this imaginary middle man someone created that I have been forced to use.

But....

I am forced, well, paid to create these boards, pin, and follow other pinners.

Its mere play time for me.

Today.

I was on an amazon board and found something I have not even heard of before.
WHY? I've read Born to Run but not this.



Its a book. Obviously.

It's called
Eat and Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness by Scott Jurek.


Let me give you two points that caught my eye.
Ultra runner
Vegan

HELLLLOOOOOO!!!!

Doesn't this scream my name.
I heard it instantly.
Sawnnnnaaaa buyyyyyy meeeee...
Sawnnnnaaaa rrreeaad meeeee...



So I did.
I bought it.
I will read it.


Here's what amazon had to say;

For nearly two decades, Scott Jurek has been a dominant force—and darling—in the grueling and growing sport of ultrarunning. In 1999, as a complete unknown, he took the lead of the Western States Endurance Run, a 100-mile traverse over the old Gold Rush trails of the California Sierra Nevada. He won that race seven years in a row, setting a course record along the way. Twice he won the Badwater Ultramarathon, a 135-mile “jaunt” through Death Valley. Recently he set an American record of 165.7 miles in 24 hours—6 1/2 marathons in one day. And he was one of the elite runners who traveled to Mexico to run with the Tarahumara Indians, as profiled in the bestseller Born to Run. His accomplishments are nothing short of extraordinary, but that he has achieved all of this on a plant-based diet makes his story all the more so.

In Eat and Run, Scott Jurek opens up about his life and career—as an elite athlete and a vegan—and inspires runners at every level. From his Midwestern childhood hunting, fishing, and cooking for his meat-and-potatoes family, to his early beginnings in running (he hated it), to his slow transition to ultrarunning and veganism, to his world-spanning, record-breaking races, Scott’s story shows the power of an iron will and blows apart all the stereotypes of what athletes should eat to fuel optimal performance. Chock-full of incredible, on-the-brink stories of endurance and competition, fascinating science, and accessible practical advice—including his own favorite plant-based recipes—Eat and Run will motivate everyone to “go the distance,” whether that means getting out for that first run, expanding your food horizons, or simply exploring the limits of your own potential.






“In pursuing the mental side of endurance, Jurek uncovers the most important secrets any runner can learn.”—Amby Burfoot, author of The Runner’s Guide to the Meaning of Life

“Jurek’s story and ideas should easily manage to speak to and cheer on anyone seeking to live life as fully as possible.”—Denver Post

“A shockingly honest, revealing, and inspiring memoir.”—Trail Runner


I'll let you know what I think, once I've completed the book!


Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness

Sorry MK, I've fallen in love with Garmin

Michael Kors. I do like you, but you know... its not you- It's me.

There's a new watch in my life, and its a Garmin.


I don't know if I've stated this before.
But I love my new watch.
Have I?
Well I'm saying it now.
If I could scream it I would- ha! But I think my boss would ask me why I'm not working... whoops.

Well.
Lets make this quick.

When I saw the Garmin 910xt, it was love at first sight.

You swim.
You bike.
You run.


Whether you’re training or racing, every second counts, so the 910XT makes it easy and seamless to transition between sports.
The auto multisport feature lets you switch sport modes with just 1 button press, so you don’t lose precious seconds in transition.
The optional quick release mount allows you to move the 910XT easily from wrist to bike.

Designed for open water and pool swimming, it's water resistant to 50 m (164 ft).
It’s their first multisport watch to offer extensive swim metrics, including swim distance, stroke identification, stroke count and pool lengths.
It also computes your swolf score to help you gauge your swimming efficiency.
The 910XT’s robust design and easy operations make it suited for other water sports, including paddle boarding :)

On land, Forerunner 910XT offers many of the features of their advanced cycling computers and sport watches to accurately capture your time, distance, speed or pace.
The 910XT is their first multisport device to incorporate a barometric altimeter for highly accurate elevation data, including ascent, descent and grade.
Configurable data fields let you customize multiple training pages for each sport.
Set up vibration alerts to give a silent nudge when you hit a split, when it’s time to take nutrition or if you need a little feedback to stay within range of your goals.
With these high-level features and up to 20 hours of battery life, the 910XT is ideal for athletes training for ultras or iron distance tris.

Ultra.

That's what I'm doing... at least for now!



Well.

I have it.

I use it.

But only for running.

There is something frightening about the swimming feature.
Yes, I use to swim... a lot.

No. I don't really want to know how bad I've gotten over the past few years.

But I guess I have to start somewhere right?


Maybe Friday.


ALSO! The one thing I didn't purchase- because I thought I got the whole package. Is the foot pod?
My questions was....
How do I calculate what I do, say, running on a treadmill or cycling at the gym?
I assume that is what the foot pod is for?

I will have to research it. This watch itself contains a massive amount of options and information that I have only began to touch on.

Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness

No food, no strength

One step in front of the other.
You can do this.

Drink some water.
Stomach rumbles.

"SHHhhhh" I tell my stomach.
You'r not allowed to be upset today.
Not today.
Not on a Saturday.

I'm running.
At least I'm trying to.
I look at my watch, my favorite watch might I add!
OK. I look at my watch, mile 3.10

That't it?

I consider myself a positive person.
It's what I live by.
But the past 3.10 miles... I've been nothing of the sort.

You can't do this.

Just stop now.

Turn around.

Go back to bed.

It's not too late.

What were you thinking?

It's too hot

Your too weak.

One step in front of the other.
I look at my watch.
My favorite watch... wait- did I say that already.
OK. I look at my watch, mile 10.61





Ok.

I can do this.

Half way there... Almost.

My stomach tries to tell me otherwise as I eat a square of my shock block.
"Shhhhhh..." I whisper.
It's going to be just fine.

I gulp.

One step in front of the other.

THREE DAYS EARLIER.

One second I feel fine.
The next I feel feverish.
I'm shivering. Brrrrrr.
Is it just me? or is it freezing in here?
The day was rather nice in temperature, so why am I so cold?
My stomach is turning.
Dang it Sawna, you've been healthy all year long and you finally got sick!
Is that it?
Am I truly sick?

I take Vitamin C and the rest of my vitamins that I neglect on a daily basis because of my beliefs toward my truly healthy dietary habits.
I take an Emergen-c... because its an emergency, obviously.
Sudden overwhelming feeling of nausea.
"Don't throw up, Sawna" I keep telling myself. Throwing up is one of my least favorite of feelings.


I look at the clock.
It's 8:30pm.

Well, If I'm truly sick- I should sleep.

I look at the clock.
It's 12:30am.

I muster strength for a glass of water but it hurts to consume anything, even your basic H20.
What's wrong with me?

SATURDAY

Food poisoning.

The last three days of been a blur of vomiting, stomach pains, forcing myself too eat- just to vomit again.
Not a feelings I would enslave to anyone.
Not even my worst enemy.

One step in front of the other.
The sun is beating down, I run through the long stretches of pure heat just to enjoy a few seconds of shade.
And continue again.



One step in front of the other.
You can do this.
Positive Sawna is back- thank god.
And she is right... I can do this.
And I will.
One step at a time.

Three Days Earlier

I look at my computer screen.
Its 3:30pm
BING.

Facebook message.
It's one of my coaches asking if I would do the mission moment segment of our Saturdays trianing.
I respond quickly with a yes.

Mission moment is when a team member shares their story.
Why they joined Team in Training.
Why they continue to train.
How they were affected my cancer.

I can do it.
Share my families story.
Boy I hope I don't cry.

Its Friday.....


I look at my watch, 12:15 pm.
After spending a full day with my new best friend... the toilet.
I don't know how I'll make it tomorrow.

I've committed to it.
I can't miss it.

But my stomach hurts.
I stare at my tomato soup, and I'm frightened.
I am far from hungry, but I have to eat something.
With each bite of food, comes a shooting pain.
Thankfully it's less painful than yesterday.

Keep eating Sawna... you'r going to make it.
It's going to be ok.

Saturday

I look at my watch
It's 1:35.
Mile 21:59.

I hear fast footsteps behind me.
It's my coach.

He asks me how I am.
"I'm good, a little hot, but good"
Is how I respond.
I'm not lying.
I feel pretty amazing.

Yes, it's hot.
Almost unbearably hot, but I've been hydrating- constantly.

I look at my watch.

22 miles.





I made it.

BEAT THAT FOOD POISONING.

I've learned a few lessons during this 5 hour run.

What you do, or do not do- during the week, really shows during your long run.

Hydrate
Eat healthy
Sleep

Three huge factors in running efficiently and with strength.

Although I completed my run, I did not do it to the best of my ability.

Your nutrition plays a major role in your energy level.

Something I do not want to toy with.

It turned out to be a beautiful run, even with the stomach pains, heat and starting negative energy.


I completed my mission moment, with only a few tears, but I completed it.

My story has been shared.
My run complete... for today.

Now, to eat healthy....

and never get food poisoning again.

KNOCK ON WOOD.


Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness.


Postscript.
Feel like donating?

You still can!
HERE

Why I keep going

While the miles continue to grow.
16, 18 and now 22 miles...

I have to remind myself of the reason why I keep going.
Why I continue to train.
Why I continue to raise money.

As much as I want to say I train for everyone effected by blood cancer... well I do.
But what got me to my first Team in Training Information meeting was, well, someone close to home- my dad.

I run in honor of him.
Every day, every mile, every step.

Eight years ago my dad trained to cycle the perimeter of Lake Tahoe as a member of Team in Training.
Little did he or the rest of us know that six years later, in the same months where he would normally, cheetah like, speed through a 50 mile bike ride... would limit himself to going down the house stairs to a mere 3-4 times. The stairs in his eyes, were mountain like, taking every ounce of his strength to climb.
He was diagnosed with what is called Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) which is a group of diseases that affect the bone marrow and blood.

If you knew and know my dad- he's a fighter. And in those coming months, fight he did. (While having fun along the way!)

In November of 2010 a miracle transpired. They found a donor and in a matter of a few weeks- received a Stem-Cell ransfusion and it took!

Our prayers were answered, after six weeks in the hospital,
My dad was coming home for Christmas!

I have to admit.
This was a life altering experience.
It makes you value each and everyday that you are gifted life.

Thanksgiving may only come around once a year, but I am thankful everyday for having a second chance with my best friend, my dad.

Since his recovery my dad has been busy. He's not wasting ANY time!
He's realized the opportunity he has been given and taking full advantage of it.

Sky diving.
Scuba diving.
Zip lining.
Hiking.
Running.
Traveling...
to name a few

I wish more people realized the gift they have been given.
The gift of life.


When I'm running those 50 miles in April, I'm running for my dad.
Because without him... I wouldn't be the person I am now.

And I'm still fundraising... If you know me, my dad, both of us or neither of us- feel free to give to a good cause.
HERE

(picture taken for Nike Womens San Fran 2011 Marathon)


After the 50 miles...
Well I'm going to keep on training. Maybe not for another Ultra marathon. (At least for now)
But I will be training, with my dad, to cycle "The Most Beautiful Bike ride".
That's right.
My dads doing it again, 8 years later... with me.

So don't switch screens, keep this link in your favorites, and enjoy the ride.
Because you bet even after my Ultra Marathon... I'll be keeping you updated.

Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness.

Jewelry Sale

Hi my name is Sawna and I'm a procrastinator.
Big Time.
If there was an award for procrastination, ah hem, I'd surely win it.

Its February.
I'm sitting in my office, once again, overlooking the skyscrapers that is downtown Los Angeles and I am a bit overwhelmed.
It seems to always come to this point.

Fundraising is on my mind.
Recently its been a constant topic.

I'm not very good at it. Obviously.

So I figured I'd do what I do best... well at least I think I'm pretty good at, or merely OK at. HEY! I do it for a living- I must be decent:)

So here I am.
Going to make jewelry.
100% of the cost will go toward my fundraiser.

I have a few options and will take requests (if I have the material you are looking for).

Perfect timing, with Valentines day just around the river bed.

SLAVE BRACELET OPTIONS

Option One
(may be available in other colors)

Gold Filled Bracelet in with Opal beads Adjustable 6"-9"

Chain Length: 7"-9"
2" finger


Can be adjusted.

Available in Silver.

Option Two

Slave Bracelet in Sterling Silver.925 with turquoise beads Adjustable 6"- 9"

Chain Length: 6"- 9" + 2" finger
Beads length: 2"
Total beads:8
Beads: 6.5 mm

Also available in gold

Prayer bracelet

Available in both Gold and Silver
Different charms depending on availablity- Please specify


Here's the deal.
Like I said 100% goes to the Leukemia Lymphoma Society, toward my training for the Leona Divide 50 mile trail race in April.

I am asking for a minimum donation.

Slave bracelets

Minimum donation
w/o shipping
24.00

With Shipping
26.00

Prayer Bracelets
w/o shipping
28.00

with shipping
30.00

Gift wrapping available upon request

Feel free to donate more if you like:)
Remember- its for a good cause!

If you are interested please email me the following:

Name
Address
Wrist measurements

Bead preference
Material preference
Shipping details
and any kind words :)

to:
Sawnag@hotmail.com

Please understand when I ask for the donation to be made first.
Shipment will be made 3-5 business days after donation.
Rush order can be made upon request.

DONATE HERE:
http://pages.teamintraining.org/los/leonadiv13/sawna


I'm pretty flexible- if you want something specific JUST ASK!


Let me know if you have any questions

Till next time,
Peace Love and happiness

There Is no I in Team

“One man can be a crucial ingredient on a team, but one man cannot make a team.”

~Kareem Abdul-Jabbar~


Before training with TNT, I had no goals, nothing I was truly training for.
I would go through kicks; spurts, fazes, of running- where I would be running, no joke, everyday for a few weeks then... I don't know, would lose my steam.

I would sign up for the occasional half marathon, 10k or 5k... just for kicks, but not having any true purpose.

I was running, excuse my French, half ass.

But then- I joined, first, TNT for the Nike women's marathon... and being a part of that team truly painted the big picture on how I viewed training- why I should want to wake up at 5am everyday for a nice long run.

Now, being part of the Ultra team, they are reminding me of why, even after a long day at work, why I want to go out and run my expected miles.
Heck! I almost didn't last night but the fact that I want to not only complete the 50 mile trail run- but have a good times pushed me off that warm couch and into the crisp night for a nice 8 mile run along Sunset blvd.

I didn't rejoin TNT at first because I was frightened about fundraising- I lack the creativity for fundraising ideas I guess.

But. It's the people that brought me running (literally) back to the team.
Because we are a collective group of strangers(to start off), that share a common purpose:
To make that "someday" when cancer is cured, happen sooner!

We are here, running these (what you may think as insane) amount of miles, together, because we have known someone, have been or just want to help others affected by blood cancer.

Heck! Why else would I wake up on weekends earlier than my weekdays- because I do what I love...


Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness


**** Postscript****

Thank you Robert Gautereaux and Gail Scheuer for their support and donation towards my fundraiser!

Let's keep this fundraising going!
Donate here!

Being Alive

I was sitting at my desk.
Because I have a desk... at work.
So.
I was at my desk this morning- thinking about how I forgot my snacks... but mostly about the fact that I was dead tired.
Tired, of waking up at 5am everymorning and not having the opportunity to sleep in.

But then I snap out of it.
Why am I complaining?
I choose to wake up that early...
well, yes, I do have to be downtown by 7am.
But that it was my decision to take the job,
my decision to wake up 30 minutes early so I can cook a helthy lunch,
my decision to go to training on Saturdays,
my decision to go to optional training on Sunday.

I am blessed in all aspects of my life.
Family, friends, Work, my TNT groups... life.
If being tired because of committing to do things that I LOVE to do-
then ILL TAKE IT.

SHOOT.

Anyhoodle.

Things too look forward to.

1.17.13- Six day trip to IDAHO. Family time!!(maybe some snowboarding and a trip to Canada?)
2.1.13- Lottery opens up for Griffith Park trail Marathon
2.2.13- LA Color Run @ Dodger Stadium
Somewhere in between my dad and I will be taking our flight lessons...


I wanted to say a big THANK YOU!!!! to Teresa Galindo, Pamela Guadarrama, Gina Kepler, Ramtin Parvaneh, Timothy Ferraro for their support and recent donation toward my fundraiser. Thank you for helping run these 50 miles... each dollar helps me cross that finish line:)

Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness

Donation Tracker

FINALLY was able to update the donation tracker on the blog.

If you look to your right
---------------------------->

It's right there.

YAY!


PS. I just had instant coffee...
not a fan.
:/

This whole waking up at 5:30 for work... is hard.


Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness.

Hwood Weho BevHills

I can't shake the feeling that I smell potatoes.
First it started off as a baked potato, then somehow it turned into French fries.
I'd like to say it's heavenly, having these amazing smells guide me- then suddenly it smells like fried deformed chicken and my stomach goes into knots... I realized I was passing Chick-fil-A.
GROSS.

As I continue... I think of how I passed up happy hour and sushi with my friends.
All I can imagine is fried banana and sake- amazing!

I suddenly come to a stop.
Red light.... Figures.
As quickly as I began- I stopped.

There's someone talking to me. She's not my favorite person.
Her voice is, I can not even find the words, but it's like nails on a chalk board.

She's reminding me that I've ran 5 miles at a pace of 7:15. Say What!!!
I'm currently in Beverly Hills!! Now I have to run back, through WeHo and Hwood!!
Whoops.

Boy does time fly when your lost in thoughts.

Today's training plan was to run 7 miles comfortably and although I did not feel as though I was sprinting, my pace shows I was.

I'd like to thank having the ultra teams notifications on Facebook.
There's nothing like enjoying a nice cold beer after work with yours friends when fb pops up that today was the mid week long run.
Dang.

So, I thank you, dear friends.
Thank you for inspiring me!

It's the little things along the way, these next four months, that will help me cross that finish line and be able to say I have ran 50 miles.
Wait did I say 50 miles.

No.
I believe I wrote it- but same thing.

Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness.


DONATE HERE
Click hereeeeeeeeeeeee




Postscript*****
I would like to thank my dad, Hector "Papa" Guadarrama for his generous donation toward my fundraising.
EVERY DOLLAR



click me

I am thankful

Being in the spirit, I found myself thinking of what I am thankful for.
There are the given things most people go straight for, family, friends, job, etc.
However, it is so much more.

Tomorrow (if you celebrate Thanksgiving that is..) as you sit around an table covered with an abundant amount of food, you are signifying your thanks. November 22nd is when you are supposed to step back, away from your daily activities and take a deep breath. Breath in all the wonders in your life, the beautiful people you have met, the family you were blessed with, the relationships you were given, the experiences you have cherished and exhale all your worries, all the demons you may have and be thankful.

I sometimes catch myself overwhelmed with worry about some little hurdle that portrayed itself as a mountain and I have to remind myself, Sawna... your worry wort- this is merely a small hurdle of life, an experience that will only make you stronger, BREATH.

There is one thing that I am truly thankful for, and I thank god everyday for it.
And that, my dear friends, is my wonderful family.
Each member of my family holds a special place in my heart.
They are my relatives, my blood, my brother, sisters; my best friends.

But most of all my parents. They are the glue that holds the five children together.
They are the roots to our family tree that is ever growing.

My mom, so amazing, just published her first book The Alchemy Of Food: From Soil to Soul . She works so hard in what she believes in and you bet us kids are her biggest fans.
My mom may not be adventures athletic wise, but she loves cooking new food, traveling the world and even joining me in the local dive bars in Thailand for a drink:)

My dad, well- you know my dad. I'm thankful to have shared some of my biggest accomplishments with him this year. Without his encouragement and support I would have never went diving. Diving as in scuba diving and sky diving, with him by my side. Everyday, I thank god to have him in my life and to share another cancer free holiday with him.

SO the reason for my post is to ask, have you thought of what your truly thankful for?

This morning I set out for a run, I asked myself- why am I thankful.
Because I was blessed with life.

I signed up with Team in Training, once again, for another season.
But this time I will be running 50 Kilometers (roughly 31 miles).
Why you ask?
No its not because I'm crazy, although that is a valid excuse.

I signed up because Its something I believe it, and I will be training with people that believe it the same thing.
Sound interesting?
Go to my Team in Training page and read on.
Show your support<3





Till next time,
Peace, Love and happiness.

Bikram

Heart racing.
Breath in. Breath out.
Sweat dripping.
Muscles tightening.

One step at a time.
Up. Down.
Left. Right.
Keep going.
My pulse is high.
My breath is heavy.
But I keep going...

One foot after the other.
One mile after the other.

The sound is almost soothing- the sound your foot makes when it hits the ground.
The sound is almost rhythmic and put me in such a Trans where I forget that I'm actually running.

Yes. Running- what else would I be talking about.

I can honestly say I've been quite dedicated to running.
Maybe not the high mileage but who's counting.

I've adopted a new routine that has assisted my running in multiple ways.
Bikram yoga... yes, I've done it before and I'm quite fond of it.
However, the benefit it has for runners is astronomical.

I can honestly say I'm not flexible- I don't do yoga well.
But its not just yoga, and its not just sitting in a sauna.
Its the two combined, the flowing of the poses, the stretching of the muscles, the ease and relaxation my body feels after is sensational.

As a runner- your body tends to tighten up.
Well, Bikram stretches those tight spots out.
The two go very well together.

Since I've signed up last month I've been able to run with ease, my recovery time after long runs have been less intense since I've been able to have a 90 min long stretch.

Another perk has been my water consumption.
You never really realize your water intake till you have to sit in a Sauna and do yoga. If your hydrated- you'll live... if your not- well, basically, you'll pass out.
It's nothing to be afraid of- as long as you hydrate throughout the day- which we all should be doing anyways.... right!?!?!

Well, I've enjoyed my experience so far and I've tried to share this with as many friends as possible.
So- I thought I'd share with you:)

Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness

Singing(Running) in the rain

Alas!
I feel like running.
I itch. I yearn. I crave a good run.

Ha! Only took four days back to get back into gear.
I didn't think I could easily wake up at 6:30am again.
But here I am 10am, already had my 7 mile in and am ready for work.

Man oh man- I just need to keep it up.
This morning was exactly what I needed.
It was truly serene in a way.

I began my morning as usual. Hit the snooze button twice before I was too awake to hit it again. Chia seed drink followed by coffee and I'm out the door.
It was quite hazy this morning. The streets were wet from a night full of mist and light rain and as I finished my first mile it began sprinkling.

Well the sprinkle turned into a slight rain.
What a feeling to be in a tank top, shorts, warm weather and its raining!
Get this- I've only ran in the rain once before and to be honest I try to avoid it like the plague.
But... I LOVED IT!
I never thought I would say that.

Its was a beautiful experience.
Corny I know.
But the overwhelming sensation was extraordinary.
With each step, each movement, each turn I took I was overwhelmed with a feeling of accomplishment.

I don't know why- I think my senses were just heightened.
But it was great and that was the point I was trying to make.

I think it helped that I was listening to Jonsi :)

OH WHAT A DAY.
Its gloomy and windy outside in the city of angels and I LOVE IT.

Something fun to read in regards to yesterdays post!
How a vegan diet helped me run 100 miles.

DID YOU KNOW:
The amazing power of Cayenne?

Cayenne Pepper is a miracle herb. It has been shown to stop heart attacks in 30 seconds flat, can hinder internal bleeding and induces cancer cell death without harming other cells. There have been reports where people who have had heart attacks and were lucky enough to have someone shove a teaspoon of cayenne pepper mixed with water down their throat the heart attack... halted almost immediately. You can also improve your digestive problems, cramping, and bloating or blood circulation with Cayenne Pepper.
Cayenne pepper has the ability to move the blood which is it an essential element in cleansing the body. If your blood circulation is working at its peak your body is able to process waste material better. Cayenne pepper speeds up the removal of toxins from your body when you are participating in colon cleansing but when used as a regular part of your diet can have enormous health and ongoing cleansing benefits.
Cayenne pepper is very tasty and can be added to just about any vegetarian or savoury meal.
Cayenne Pepper can also be added to your first aid kit for its antiseptic and antibiotic qualities for cuts and burns.

OK. Time to make some mulah!

Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness


Postscript.
I find it hard to wear heels after a nice run and some lunges.
Maybe not the best decision on my part:/

Running 100 miles!!!!

Joining Team In training to run 26.2 miles was hard.
Not really.
But with the motivation from my family- it was easier to sign up.

Continuing with the training, the fund-raising, the injuries, the 5am work outs- Now THAT is hard.

I feel, throughout my sporting life, anytime I've trained for something, whether it was cross country, waterpolo or in swimming- I've had some pretty amazing coaches.

But this time, this person, has topped them all.
Now... I'm talking about my head coach from 2011's fall San Gabriel Valleys Nike Women's Marathon coach.

Throughout the season, he yelled, he pushed, he ran, he wore a wig- he inspired.
He's a teacher in many ways.

I remember being in the pool at the crack of dawn because I had a sprained ankle, and he was right there with me- coaching me!
Not only is he a coach, a mentor, a leader but now he's done it again- Running 100 miles whilst raising thousands of dollars for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.

Wow!

In less than 10 DAYS he will be running The Angeles Crest 100 Mile Endurance Run

100 miles!

SO put down your double caramel macchiato and donate
Donate because you want to support someone whos changing lives everyday.
Someone that is trying to make the world a better place.
Someone that is trying to save lives.

So- instead of buying your daily starbucks drink, or that cocktail tonight...
DONATE, and support an amazing race

I may not be training with Team In Training now, but I'm so grateful for my past experience, for the life lessons, for the caring people I met, for the training I received and just for the love that was given and without Coach Kiley- It would not have been the same!

Follow his journey


Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness

Watching out

I've been, for the past year, deciding whether I want a Running watch.
When I first started running with team in training- my team mates all had timex watches for to set up interval times.
As much as I wanted tonpurchase one, at the time I didn't think I could really afford it nor did I know if that is actually the one I wanted.

I've been considering a heart rate monitor. I've researched and sought out certain brand with certain features all at different price points and in the end I always left the store empty handed.

Runners world- a running store located right by Griffith park of Los Feliz blvd in Atwater village has had this watch I've even eyeing.

I think I've found the one. The only.
The heart rate monitor of my dreams- ha!
I've waiting a long time for this and ALAS! I must wait longer because it's so obserdly priced.
Is it worth it?
Duh!
But first- I want to build up my milage...
Tomorrow I'll start at one.


You looked shocked.
But I'm serious.
Dead serious.

Last time I ran... Hiking doesn't count.
Last time I ran was... (checking my running log) was June 29th 8.48 miles.
TEN days.

I know I know. Whats wrong with me.
Birthdays, holidays, visitors- too much alcohol and sweets.
Ay caramba!

Well. I'm turning in my towel. Sawna snout of business for the next month.
I have to work for this watch and not just to make money but actually deserve it- mentally and physically.

If you have better recommendations feel free to give it to me!
But honestly, I think my heart is pretty much set on this little training bug master!

Any hoodle.



Take a look and you tell me- I promise I'll (try to) listen


Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness


ps. Have you seen me sky dive yet? What a trip.
But I guess that'll have to wait for another time!

To you.... On my birthday.

It feels as though it was just yesterday when I was celebrating my 23rd birthday.
BOY has so much changed in 365 days.
I can honestly say that 23 was a year of accomplishments.

This past year has opened my eyes to a whole new world of adventures, great experiences, new loves, amazing characters, true friends and a person I didn't know I could be. I would like to say that I'm responsible for my new growth, this new path I've chosen to follow but quite honestly.... I was merely the body.

My friends and family have sculpted me into who I am today. They have guided me and showed me the light onto this unseen world. Mind you they may have pushed me out of a plane, guided me through shark terrain, led me through packs of elephants and pushed me off a bridge with merely a rope as my savior but you know what- I'd do it again.

These new adventures have been shared with the people most close to me and that, dear reader, is what birthdays are for. To celebrate another successful year of breathing.
breathing in new experiences- good or bad,
Breathing in new adventures- scared or not
Breathing in Life- willingly or not.

And not being afraid to exale.

We have all been gifted this day.
We have all been gifted life.

My question to you- is what have you done with yours?

Sawna- what have you done?

Oh well- I thought you'd never ask.

Since my 23rd birthday.
I have grown life(veggies)
Ran a marathon,
Traveled across the world,
Received my scuba diving certification and dove in Mexico/Thailand/Belize
Cared for elephants
Volunteered my time
Ran several half marathons
swam in several different waterfalls
Sky dived
bungee jumped
donated platelets
signed up to be a bone marrow donor
Joined a running team...


And loved and experienced happiness

Love is the most important factor of them all. My love for my family and friends have created a life of happiness and without them- I wouldn't exsist.

So to my family and friends, I applaud you.
For successfully bringing another year of true happiness into my life.

Who knows what my 24th year will bring me- but one thing I know is that you'll be right by my side.

CHEERS to another year!
I love you all



Till next time,
Peace, love and happiness

Here, there- everywhere

Blogger just "revamped" their site.

I hate it.

Just thought I'd share.