Dude, where’s my blog? December 3, 2009
It only took the technologically impaired teammate 6 weeks to get on this thing… So let’s get down to the nitty gritty… I started running 2 years ago, and I have to say I have been in love with it ever since. Mind you, I couldn’t run a mile 2 years ago without hyperventilating. So to be able to run multiple miles now, almost reaching the double digits is pretty amazing to me. And what is even more amazing is that in 3 months from now, I will be running 26.2 miles in New Orleans with 4 other lovely ladies. Whaaaaaaaat? You are probably thinking that is crazy, but we are crazy so if the shoe fits…. (or sneaker in this case)… wear it! I don’t think any of us are super speedy runners, we are all mediocre… But that’s the point… Ordinary people running extraordinary distances. The fact that we are healthy enough to even run at all is a blessing, so we intend to take full advantage of it. That is why our sponsor, Alex’s Lemonade Stand, is so important to us, and such a huge motivator for us in crossing that finish line in February. It’s hard to explain why distance running appeals to me. It’s going to take months of diligent workouts to be able to run at a marathon level… So why do it? Who knows… I just know it’s hard to stay in a bad mood after a long, sweaty run. And time on the trail always helps me sort things out in my head. I still haven’t determined if I run my life or if it’s running me, but I know come February the 5 of us will keep running until we cross that finish line <3 So thank you to all of our friends, family, and supporters for believing in us… We won’t let you down! Happy Holidays! – Jenny 
Rookie Runnin’ for the kids
While Vogel may not be my family name, the Vogel ladies have always made me feel like one of them. Ever since Naunie and I became roommates by chance at the ripe age of 18, I’ve been warmly welcomed as an adopted member of the crazy train. While it may have cost me my dignity (think pledging a sorority), I was officially initiated as an honorary Vogel cousin after a trip to Myrtle Beach in 2006.
Besides my honorary Vogel status, I am also a graduate student studying education, and work as a teacher’s assistant at an elementary school in Schenectady. The kids are what motivate me – even when life gets crazy. They make me smile and laugh, but always challenge me and teach me on a daily basis. So, when the ladies told me they were training for a marathon in New Orleans to support Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, I had to get involved. Planning fun-filled events and getting in shape with the loves of my life, all while getting involved in the community and raising money for a wonderful cause for kids – what could be better?
Just one problem: I have NEVER been a runner. I’ve always liked to stay in shape, but this girl could never be caught on a treadmill for over 25 minutes. 26.2?……HOW MANY miles?! Well, after about 2 weeks of training, I somehow finished the 10K (6.4 miles) Troy Turkey Trot with the ladies at a not-so-terrible pace. I realized that I AM capable. Maybe I just need to get my head in the right place. And on those days when I just don’t feel like running – I think of the kids – the kids I work with who have more difficult lives than I ever will. I think of the kids that one day will be healthy as a result of Alex’s Lemonade Stand, and even the kids – like Alex – that didn’t get the chance to get to age 25 and maybe train for a marathon. And then, hitting that pavement or jumping on a treadmill just doesn’t seem so hard. Thankfully, I’ve also got these ladies to push me. We truly are a team and I know that no matter how tough it is or how long it takes, we will get to that finish line…together.
-Alaina
The Bigger Picture: October 22, 2009
I have never really considered myself to be a runner; in all actuality I would rather do any other heart-pumping exercise just so that I wouldn’t have to resort to the treadmill. Dancing, using the elliptical, Pilates, yoga, and chisel were just some of those alternatives. While it is possible to achieve a good workout without making those strenuous strides, sometimes a small change in perspective can completely erase such a long-term feeling. For someone like me to commit to a 26 mile marathon is just that, a commitment. Not only are we being sponsored and raising money for an important cause, but it has enabled me to set a goal that at the moment seems larger than myself. I ran 5 miles the other day. Okay, so it’s only a very small fraction of what I will need to be able to endure in 19 weeks but it made me feel as though that goal is achievable. I am also lucky enough to have a best friend who is an extremely talented DJ and has made me a personalized mix to keep me moving and entertained. Here is a taste of those beats: http://www.zshare.net/audio/6698727450e7e28d/
So in these beginning stages of preparation I guess I have realized that it isn’t about the miles ahead, or the commitment to maintain, but rather the steps and support that carry you along the way.
Hope to see you all at our first official fundraiser!!
Best,
Jenny N.
Naunie reporting for blogging October 21, 2009
Hellloooo friends/family/strangers! For those of you that know me, I apologize. For you first-timers, let me introduce myself… My name is Lauren, more commonly referred to as Naunie. I am one of the Crazy Cousins busting hump on the pavement for the sake of helping those in need! I recently returned to the states after living in Barcelona, and figured I would keep knockin’ off pages on my To-Do List and run a marathon with some of my most favorite people en todo el mundo!!! That being said, I’ve gotten into the running groove and clock 3-6 miles almost every day. However, never having run a marathon, the number 26 is looming in my mind and I’ve got the next 4 months to get after it! I’m psyched about our upcoming fundraiser in ‘toga ( better get out there and support- & no, we will not be wearing white t-shirts!), and more so, to draw attention to a great cause- pediatric cancer awareness/research/funding!!!
So far, the best tracks that get my running mojo flowing seem to be Run DMC and MJ… so if you see a PYT running down the sidewalk Bustin A Move, it’s Meeeeeeeeeeee! Check back soon 
Hola! October 12, 2009
Hello all and welcome to our blog! For those of you who don’t know us, we are a group of cousins who have committed to raising funds to benefit Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation by running in the 2010 Mardi Gras Rock n’ Roll Marathon on February 28. Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation was founded in 2000 by 4 year old Alexandra Scott who held a lemonade stand to raise money for finding a cure for all children with cancer. The foundation operates on the principle “when life gives you lemons make lemonade” and as you get to know us through this blog, you will see how we carry that same belief not only in our training but in our daily lives. To learn more about Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation visit their website: http://www.alexslemonade.org/
During the next five months leading up to the marathon, we will use this blog to share with you, our friends, family and supporters, the good, the bad and the crazy details of our training and fundraising efforts. As you will see, the typical fundraising strategies used by many will only be utilized minimally here; as a rule, we like to shake things up and fully intend on shaking it to the max to raise a whole lot of money for this awesome cause. Stay tuned for upcoming fundraising events and “Crazy Cousin Challenges” that we know will get you intrigued and involved in supporting our team.
We welcome any comments and suggestions and thank you in advance for your support!
