tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16468004455737069922024-03-05T09:28:21.119-08:00The Felicity FilesGiggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.comBlogger68125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-86744823551096411232013-07-14T22:32:00.001-07:002013-07-14T22:32:15.552-07:00Gold Coast Results!It's now been a fill week since Renee, Craig and Amy ran their races for Felicity and we couldn't be more proud of their efforts!
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Renee was first up with her 10km run on Saturday the 6th. It was an early start but Renee powered through and smashed out a new personal best for the event she enjoys so much. Congrats!!
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<b>RESULT: 55minutes 09seconds</b>
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The following day the Gold Coast put on another spectacular day for Craig and Amy to run their first ever full marathon. The start gun went at 7:20am and the running began..... 4hours and a whole lot of steps latter both our determined runners were still on the course. We can only imagine the challenge this 42.2 run takes any runner through and are incredibly grateful to both Craig and Amy for taking it on in Felicity's name!
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<b>RESULTS:
Craig: 4hours 22minutes
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Amy: 4hours 44minutes</b>
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A HUGE thank you to our runners - your efforts and generosity is awesome. And a HUGE thank you, also to all those who sponsored our runners. Our counters are so close to tipping over the first $1000 of our aim - WOW!!
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We hope it's been a week of celebration and rest Renee, Craig and Amy.... Well deserved!Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-73834335819673057062013-06-30T04:11:00.000-07:002013-06-30T04:11:41.491-07:00Why Are They Running?.... Amy: Gold Coast MarathonJust a few days to go - what a weekend coming up! Another of our runners who seems to keenly return year after year is Felicity's step-mum, Amy. This year Amy has stepped up to take on the full 42.2km marathon for the first time and has this to share with us about why she is doing it:
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<i>I have been running for a 3 years now and can safely and proudly say I love it (some may say I might be a little addicted to the sport). When I tell someone, especially a non-runner, what I did that morning in preparation for the marathon this is what they hear: My alarm goes off in the morning, I roll out of bed, get myself into my running gear, lace up my shoes and head out the door. I reach my half way point and turn around to head home or complete my circuit and come home. Sure I probably worked up a sweat or might have some sore legs at some point but I am fit so surely I can get it done. Right?
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What really goes on:
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I am reluctantly woken by my alarm clock at 4am, convince myself to get out of bed, get rugged up in compression tights, singlet, top, jacket, socks, sneakers, head band, hat, arm band, gloves, earphones, stocked fuel belt, set my phone running app on to track pace/distance/time etc and head out in the freezing (sometimes pouring rain) dark of the morning and clock up 30+ kilometres. Over those kms I track my pace and time in fuel Gels and sips of water from my drink bottle to help keep me going. Most of these long runs seem to end in a slow, chaffed shuffle up my driveway to my front door to quickly stretch out my screaming tight and tired muscles before having a warm shower then waking my sleeping hubby and kids ready to have breakfast and start a normal day of school and work. When said this way, I agree, it sounds like a horrible way to start the day but after the initial groan at the early alarm (I am NOT a morning person) every step is a step closer to a new goal. A step closer to reaching an aim. A step closer to a personal best. Every single run, wether it's a tough one or not, I come home proud of myself!
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Felicity has been working in her Son-Rise Program for 7 years now. On a daily basis Felicity needs to take on all the day-to-day tasks you and I do like dress herself: Choose an outfit, take off your PJ's, maybe have a shower, dress yourself. You do this every day so surely you can just get it done. Right?
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What really goes on:
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Wakes up, gets out of bed in a dark disorienting space, makes her way to her bedroom door, bangs on the door until someone seems to appear and open the door. Walks to bathroom and uses the toilet. Depending on what PJ's Felicity is wearing she can undress herself but buttons are tricky. Have an adult choose an outfit for the day. Concentrate on every muscle in her body to balance herself while an adult helps her into her clothes one item at a time. Felicity, like a small child, would happily not wear warm enough clothing for the winters weather so it is up to us to be sure she has socks on her feet or a jumper on. Wait for someone to then brush her hair and tie it back to be out of her face. It sounds like a slow and tough start to the day but every single morning no matter how early she woke or how rushed we may be, Felicity will always give you a smile for helping her and doing what she wants. She is now one step closer to doing this for herself. One step understanding the process better.
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Training for and running a race, especially a long distance one, is very similar to helping Felicity with her challenges in life. You need to be persistent to be successful. You need to take the bad with the good. You need to learn from yourself & others to move forward. You need to show up wanting it. You need to allow rest days. You need to be proud of achievements and goals reached, celebrate them, no matter how small and then set new ones.... This is what I find myself thinking about ALLOT when I am out running and what I will have in my head and heart Sunday as I tick of the kms until the finish line.
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Sure, a marathon is a HUGE milestone and effort. For someone to complete the 42.2kms even just once in their life time is commendable and beleive me when I say I don't think I will be able to wipe the smile off my face for days and days afterwards but for Felicity every day is a a HUGE effort, with hundreds of tiny little milestones reached, and she does it with a smile on her face!!</i>
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What a way to look at it! Run Amy, Run - we will be cheering loudly for you from the sidelines!!!!!
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Support Felicity through sponsoring Amy's marathon run <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">HERE</a>!!
Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-87579371136139583422013-06-27T16:43:00.000-07:002013-06-27T16:43:43.124-07:00Why Are They Running?... Craig - Gold Coast MarathonYou would think running 42.2kms is enough of a milestone in itself but adding on all the hours and kilometres of running before race day makes what Craig is doing for Felicity, in a weeks time, an even more mammoth task! Craig has the following to share with us about his race day lead up and why he is willing to pound the pavement in Felicity's name.
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<i>Relying on my fitness only from my squash games, I entered into a half marathon about six years ago. Pounding that bitumen in a pair of board shorts, my dad’s shoes, and the mantra “I can run as fast as a leopard” I found it to be bloody hard work, but it did get the endorphins going.
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The full marathon always seemed impossible, until something clicked this year. I had been reading about a few interesting people at the start of the year and realised that a huge amount of running is to do with your mental attitude. I began running when there was no surf, but as the year progressed I thought a marathon may now even be possible. I can’t lie, I’m scared, but at least I can tick it off the bucket list when I make it over the line.
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My main training component has been running solo on weekends through the Nerang State Forest on rocky steep trails. I usually run 20km.
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Felicity does not get the opportunities in life that everybody else takes for granted. Felicity faces constant challenges and misses out on many of the choices and opportunities we can make. But through her development program she can make more opportunities and experience her world in a happy way. Encouraging people to help fund her Son-Rise program and become aware of Felicity’s needs and helping in any small way makes this marathon an awesome experience as it’s not just about me and my achievement it also helps Felicity. </i>
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Woohoo Craig - we are right behind you!! Help us show support to Craig for what he is about to take on (did you know only 1% of the worlds population have ever completed a marathon!) by <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">sponsoring</a> him <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">HERE</a> and in turn you are supporting Felicity!!
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Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-51204370262498567952013-06-23T17:49:00.000-07:002013-06-23T18:56:28.224-07:00Why Are They Running?... Renee Gold Coast 10km!Renee is a wife and a mum of two young boys who has found her love of fitness and running in recent years. When we heard Renee was planning on entering the 10km Gold Coast race we threw around the idea of her doing it for Felicity and she joyously jumped at the chance!
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I have asked Renee to 'document' her training, preparation and thoughts along the way and more importantly WHY she is running on July 6th for Felicity and this is what she had to share:
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<b>April:</b>
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<i>New kicks! Hopefully my new shoes and orthotic inserts will get me running better and faster. Nothing better than a new pair of runners.
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As part of my training and my effort to meet my goal of beating my 10km time from last year I attend weekly running training. It is interval based and has grown from a Mum’s and Bubs training group that I’ve been going to since my first son was born five years ago. A group of Mum’s got into running and haven’t looked back, as our babies got bigger we wanted more of a challenge so our trainer created a running group. Our trainer also does triathlons and she has supported and encouraged a lot of Mum’s to get into triathlons as well and she now does weekly tri training for the Mums who want even more of a challenge. So running training went well this week. I set some cracking times. We run 1km four times and try and get a faster time each time. My fastest was 4.35min which is close to my fastest ever. But at this stage I couldn’t hold that pace for 10km I’m still a 5.30min to 6min pace at the moment for a longer run.
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<b>May:</b>
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Mother’s Day Race – as part of the lead up to the 10km this year I’m ran in the Mother’s Day Classic again. I opted for the 8km race, last year I did the 4km one. Unfortunately I didn’t get the time I was after, it wasn’t my day for running despite setting such great times at training the week before it just wasn’t my day. My time was still pretty good though well under an hour just a slower than expected pace.
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I’m starting to get a few extra runs in. Went for a run along the Burleigh Heads foreshore with a friend and we racked up an easy 9km first thing in the morning it was a great confidence booster.
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<b>June:</b>
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Not long now until the big 10km I’m still aiming for a time faster than last year. I don’t think I’ll get 49min but that was pretty unrealistic as I remembered my time from last year wrong. It wasn’t 51min it was 57min so 54min would be pretty awesome and still really hard to get.
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Well training has kicked up another notch this week. Along side my triathlons and running training I've also been doing a fitness challenge for over a year. The challenge (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ashybinesbikinibodychallenge?fref=ts">Ashy Bines Bikini Body Challenge</a>) is a great way to meet like minded people who help to inspire and challenge me everyday. I love it.
Anyway, one of my friends from the challenge helped me step up this weekend. With her encouragement and support I completed my longest ever run - a massive 14kms and it was just a casual training run. I'm so excited to have achieved this and I'm now starting to think of setting my sites higher next year, maybe aiming for the 21km distance. My leg is trying to tell me I'm 35 years old (had some ongoing issues with my feet/leg this year) but with a bit of physio I'm aiming to be in top form. Only 11 more sleeps!
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As I train for this race and continue on my fitness journey I think about Felicity a lot and I think about all the work she puts into her day to day life to achieve what we would view as simple tasks. Last time I spoke with her Dad she was working on making a plan, but not a plan as we might think of it just a simple thing like walking around a wall with a hole it in and making a plan to do that to get to the side she wants to be on.
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One of the other things I think about is her Mum’s comments in the video about Felicity’s program, it has made the difference between a child that was retreating into her own world and seemed very unhappy to a child who is much happier and enjoying her world much more. This sums up to me the reasons why her program is so important and raising awareness and funding for this for Felicity is an absolute honour. Running is an apt analogy to Felicity’s progress. To run you need to strive constantly, you need to keep training to keep up your fitness and it becomes part of your everyday life.
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You are inspiring Renee! Thanks so much for all your work and we can't wait to support your race and hear how you go!!
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<b>To show your support for Renee and what she is doing for Felicity be sure to pop over to our <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">DONATE</a> page <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">HERE</a> for ways to sponsor her awesome effort!!</b>Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-63677075432403290712013-06-19T18:30:00.000-07:002013-06-23T17:32:50.832-07:002013 in full swing.... Where we are up to now!Ummm excuse me, is it June already?!? My apologies for some serious blog neglect here but life is rather busy and has been swallowing us whole!
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Alrighty, so where are we up to in our Running The Marathon Of Autism calendar for 2013 you must be wondering.
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We have seen our first event of the year already happen a few weeks ago thanks to Amy and Julia running the Sydney Morning Herald Half Marathon for Felicity. both of these runners took on the 21.1kms event for the second time and crossed the finish line tired & sore but with smiles on their faces.
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<b>RESULTS:
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JULIA - 2hrs 5min 50secs
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AMY - 2hrs 1min 29secs</b>
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So what is next?... in just 3 short weeks is our next event and it's a biggie - <a href="http://www.goldcoastmarathon.com.au">The Gold Coast Airport Marathon</a>!! This event has a bunch of differnet length races over the weekend of July 6th-7th and three of our team will be a part of it. Renee will be taking on her favourite event on the Saturday, the 10km, and is aiming for a PB. Word has it Renee is training hard and be sure we will share a few of her thoughts in the lead up with you over the next few weeks.
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Also running on the weekend will be Craig and Amy. These two are taking on the full 42.2km marathon for the first time on the Sunday and have decided to do it in Felicity's name - Awesome! Both of these runners are deep in training and have some stories to share about their experiences (how many of you would be willing to get up at the crack on a cold morning and go for a training run that takes 3hours?!? Huge effort!!).
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We also have the Sydney City2Surf, the Melbourne Half marathon and the Sydney Blackmores event with runners taking part for Felicity later in the year so 2013 is looking good!!
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Again, sorry for the lack of blog posts but strap in now because they are in the works :)
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xxxGiggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-3489549635665376972012-10-09T18:05:00.000-07:002012-10-09T18:05:55.613-07:00Maryke's Marathon Number 4 for Felicity!What are you up to this coming Sunday? A sleep in? A relaxing day out with family? Will you be going for a short run to get in a little exercise? or will you, like one of our awesome runners, Maryke, be taking on a 42.195km Full Marathon for the 4th time??
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Maryke will be lining up in the <a href="http://www.melbournemarathon.com.au/">Melbourne Marathon</a> and just like the past 3 times she has run this race, Maryke will be doing it for Felicity!!
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<blockquote><i>Why do I keep coming back for more Amy asked me? I think the marathon has become slightly addictive.
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On Sunday I will line up for Marathon #4 – when I started this crazy caper 4 years ago for Felicity I never ever thought I would run more than one.
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But here I am, about to do it for the 4th time.
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When I started I also did not know that my own son was on the Autism Spectrum – he has Aspergers. This came out in the years since and changed everything. If anything it motivated me more. It led me to the Autism Treatment Centre of America to learn about strategies to help him be the best he can be. It healed a large part of me. Your head space has such a big part to play in marathon running and after going to the US I had my most mentally comfortable run ever.
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Every year is different – the lead up, the training and then the actual day. It has become a quest of sorts – to complete 10 marathons – all for <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/about-felicity.html">Felicity</a> - to see her into early adulthood – she turned 12 yesterday!
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I do it simply because I can.</i></blockquote> - Maryke
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What an inspiration you are Maryke! Thank you for being you and GOOD LUCK on Sunday, we will be behind you in spirit!!
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To show your support for Maryke and what she is doing for <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/about-felicity.html">Felicty</a> (did you know less than 1% of the worlds population have run a full marathon?!?!?!?!) please follow the link <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">HERE</a> to sponsor Maryke's run by <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">donating via Paypal, cheque or direct deposit</a>.
Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-27384854787889823742012-09-16T18:47:00.000-07:002012-09-16T18:47:53.605-07:00Half Marathon Results 2012What a spectacular Spring day Sydney put on for the <a href="http://www.blackmores.com.au/sydney-running-festival">Blackmores Running Festival</a> yesterday.
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The Half Marathon event was the first event of the day and started at 6:20am. Amy managed to snap a quick shot as her and Julia headed over the Harbour Bridge at the start of the race.
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Both Julia and Amy had a great race for their first ever half marathon and are already making plans for their next running challenge! Congrats ladies on such a great effort and THANK YOU oh so much for doing this for Felicity - our donation counter crossed the $2000 mark thanks to you wonderful women!!
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<b>RESULTS:
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AMY: 2hrs 3mins and 34secs
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JULIA: 2hrs 3mins 45secs</b>
Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-70193583171587205112012-09-04T01:03:00.000-07:002012-09-04T01:03:51.432-07:00Why are they running? - Amy Half Marathon 2012It's automatic to assume that I, Amy, am running my first ever Half Marathon next week <i>FOR</i> Felicity but the truth in the matter is I am running <i>BECAUSE</i> of Felicity and I thank her for that... let me explain what I mean.
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I am Felicity's step mum and I am mum to Felicity's half sister Milla and half brother Harrison. What I have learnt in the short time I have been honoured to be in this role is that if these three people are happy in their life there is nothing more they will need. They can choose to be well paid, uber educated lawyers OR fit, fab and healthy athletes OR struggling artists one day - who knows! But if they are doing it with a smile in their heart then what more could I ask for?
I get asked by lots of people <i>"how is Felicity?"</i> and I can only assume they want to hear me reply with <i>"she is doing so well, she now has X amount of words and any day now we will have her enrolled in a typical school and her Autism is a thing of the past"</i> Of course I will be thrilled to one day tell people that, but what I have learnt and am continuing to learn is what I reply with: "she is happy" and for any parent/step-parent that is perfection!
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Anyone that knows Felicity will tell you she is one cheeky, bubbly girl who is ALWAYS smiling no matter what is in her way. Seeing this shine through her for the past 6 years that I have been Felicity's step mum has made me realise that I need to always search for what makes me happy and DO IT! Happiness is a choice!
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Enter running. It started as a little 'fitness kick' to loose a bit of baby weight - I did and I was happy. Then I realised I kinda liked this running stuff - so I keep doing it and I was happy. I ran my first ever official race last year when I took on the City 2 Surf - when I crossed the finish line I was happy. I run most mornings which wakes me up (I'm NOT a morning person) and gets me in a good mood ready to start the day with my family - that makes me happy. I have goals set to better my times/distance/pace - I beat them and I am happy. I WILL run my first ever Half Marathon in Felicity's name - this will make my heart happy.
Don't get me wrong, I wasn't feeling 'un-happy' before all this but I wasn't happy with my weight, I wasn't happy with my grumpy mood in the mornings when there is such a better way to be with my gorgeous family, I wash't happy being an unfit mum who would rather sit and watch my kids instead of run and play with them, I wasn't happy with feeling unattractive to my hubby but what I am trying to say is Felicity and her <a href="http://www.autismtreatmentcenter.org/">Son-Rise Program</a> has helped me learn that you need to find whatever it is that makes you happy and do it - that 'thing' for me in the past 2 years has been running..... it might not always be running but for now it is and I will run next weeks 21.09km Half Marathon race with a smile in my heart knowing I am doing it for myself - What an AWESOME thing to be able to say!
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Thank you Felicity for being such a gift to my everyday and I will be delighted to run this race for you in the hopes to raise more more for your <a href="http://www.autismtreatmentcenter.org/">Son-Rise Program</a> xx
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I'd LOVE your support for next weeks race if you are able. Be sure to pop over to our <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">DONATE</a> page <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">HERE</a> for ways to sponsor me!!
Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-67785091453472711112012-08-30T17:02:00.002-07:002012-08-30T17:03:48.488-07:00Why are they running? Julia - Sydney Half Marathon 2012Just two weeks to go before the <a href="http://www.sydneyrunningfestival.com.au/">Blackmores Sydney running Festival</a> on September 16th and our two runners, Julia and Amy are starting to get butterflies in their bellies!
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These two mums have decided to take on their first ever Half Marathon on race day and are doing it in support of Felicity and her Son-Rise Program!
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Why would you want to run for a little over 21kms on a random Sunday morning?? We asked Julia and this is what she had to say:
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<i>Last Christmas, Amy was talking about running a half marathon in September this year, there was no way I was in any shape to do it and didn't even consider it. Since then, I have gradually been increasing my training sessions and a few months ago believed I could do it and started to run. A couple of weeks before the City 2 Surf, I injured my shin and was told that running on it would make it worse. I have continued other forms of exercises that do not stress this area and am crossing my fingers that it is ok for the big day! I am so proud that I am not only doing this for myself, but for my niece, Felicity. I know it is going to be a tough day, but I think with her positive spirit in my thoughts, I will get there.</i>
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Go Julia Go - what determination to not only run this distance for the first time but to do it after injury - You STAR!!
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To show your support for Julia and what she is doing for Felicity be sure to pop over to our <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">DONATE</a> page <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">HERE</a> for ways to sponsor her awesome effort!!Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-22802525907571830952012-08-29T01:20:00.001-07:002012-08-29T01:20:18.355-07:00InterviewJust a quick post to share a little YouTube clip. On her last trip to the <a href="http://www.autismtreatmentcenter.org/">Autism Treatment Center of America</a>, Tanya, Felicity's mum, was interviewed on her journey with Felicity and the <a href="http://www.autismtreatmentcenter.org/contents/other_sections/index.php">Son-Rise Program</a>.
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Take a look <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eVjj82KFtU8&feature=youtu.be">HERE</a> and be warned, you might need a tissue :)
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<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/eVjj82KFtU8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-14699947509784460842012-08-13T23:51:00.000-07:002012-08-13T23:51:22.195-07:00City2Surf Results 2012A chilly start to the morning had our runners huddled up like emperor penguins in the crowd of 85,000 to stay warm while they waited for the start gun to go off but once it did they were off!
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Anton and Amy were in the Blue group which started at 8:30 then Paityn took off with the Yellow group at 9:05. (Sadly Julia had to step out of the race at the last minute due to shin splints as she hopes to recover in time to do the Half Marathon in just a few weeks time).
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For Anyone who has run the world famous Sydney City2Surf you'll know there are all kinds of things and people to see on the course and this year had some great sights to see once again on the way to Bondi beach.
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<b>RESULTS:
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Amy - 1:21:17
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Anton - 1:21:30
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Paityn - 2:20:19
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<i>We are touched and amazed at the donations received in support of these awesome runners for Felicity and have the counters currently standing at $1560! THANK YOU!!!</i>
</b>Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-974030843558427522012-08-09T16:42:00.000-07:002012-08-09T16:42:34.438-07:00With a smile on her face!!Last weekend, while playing outside, Felicity took a bit of a nasty fall and it was immediately obvious she had hurt herself. Without being able to put into words where or how badly it hurt Felicity was able to let us know her leg was very sore and, with lots of help she hobbled inside. A few days passed and her leg didn't seem to be getting better so a trip to the hospital told us she has some ligament damage that will take a good week and a half to heal. Felicity is now sporting a leg brace/boot that is helping her feel confident enough to move around on her own.
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Now if this happened to many others there would be a whole lot of complaining and lounging around on the couch, right? not for our young lady - Miss Felicity hasn't changed her bubbly personality one bit. She'll happily tell anyone within her reach all about her leg by pointing, gesturing and grunting and she is doing it with her big beaming smile!
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<b><i>This amazing girl can not be knocked down!!</i></b>
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Felicity is still wanting to be outside in the sunshine where she loves it so much to be able to throw the many items we have collected all around the yard (check out the clip <a href="http://youtu.be/lZX-pnXfJZ4">HERE</a> to see Felicity in action a few weeks ago 'throwing'). She will not be convinced to sit still for much longer than it takes to sing a few songs with her before she is up and at it again.
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Now if that's not some awesome inspiration for others, I don't know what is! I will be one of the four running in this weekends City2Surf for Felicity - if and when I start getting a little tired or my legs start to get sore and will me to stop or slow down it's Felicity's determination that I will think about to get me to the finish line with a beaming smile!!
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I, and the other 3 runners this weekend: <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/running-for-felicity.html">Paityn, Julia and Anton</a>, are just 2 sleeps away from race day and would LOVE your support as we run the 14kms for Felicity
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Donations can be made by using any of the following methods:
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<b>Direct Deposit:</b>
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Account Name: T J Costin
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BSB Number: 944 300
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Account Number: 012 598 461
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NOTE: If you would like a receipt, for tax purposes, please send your email address, postal address and a copy of the direct deposit transaction to - tanya@intellectualdisability.org
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<b>Cheque:</b>
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Cheques are to be made out to: T J Costin
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Please post them to:
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Running the Marathon of Autism
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T J Costin
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P.O. Box 304
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Church Point
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NSW, 2105
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NOTE: If you would like a receipt, for tax purposes, please include a note with your email address & postal address
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<b>Paypal:</b>
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Donations can be made with your credit card through paypal.
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You do not need a paypal account to make a donation.
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Just click on the yellow Donate button found on the sidebar of this blog and follow the prompts.
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A receipt will be posted out to you.
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THANK YOU in advance and wish us luck - Can't wait!!
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Happy Friday, AmyGiggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-12508726633292361852012-07-31T21:05:00.001-07:002012-07-31T21:05:39.604-07:00Why are they running? Paityn - City 2 Surf 20122 weeks to go! 2 weeks to go! 2 weeks to go!
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We are getting excited now and being her second time around taking on the Sydney City 2 Surf, Paityn knows just what she is in for!
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At only 15 years of age Paityn asked us if she could be a part of our <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/running-for-felicity.html">Running The Marathon of Autism</a> team for the second year and of course we said Absolutely!
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Paityn has been doing odd runs around her local area for training and can't wait for race day. When asked why is she wanting to do this 14kms for Felicity, Paityn told us: <i>"the main reason was obviously to raise money but also because while she goes through so much for an 11 yr old every day of her life raising money and pushing myself to finish 14km run is nothing compared to what Fliss and you guys do"</i>
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What an inspiration you are Miss Paityn! We are behind your efforts the whole way!!
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To show your support for Paityn and what she is doing for Felicity be sure to pop over to our <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">DONATE</a> page <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">HERE</a> for way to sponsor her awesome effort!!Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-86575841362741127302012-07-16T23:15:00.000-07:002012-07-16T23:15:09.180-07:00Why are they running? Anton - City 2 Surf 2012With just a little over 4 weeks until the City 2 Surf we thought we should introduce our awesome 2012 Running The Marathon of Autism runners. We have Four participants who will take part in the 14km fun run on August 12th and the only one of those four who will be running in the famous race for the first time is Anton.
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Anton has been training for he race with runs & bike rides around his local area and can't wait to cross the finish line at famous Bondi Beach!!
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Dad of two little ones and a member of Felicty's extended family we asked Anton why he wanted to join our team this year...
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<i>"Being Felicity's Uncle, I have known her from when she was a little baby and have seen all the huge changes in her life. I am running in the City 2 Surf for the first time this year and would love to do it in support of Felicity, her family and what the Son-Rise Program has brought into their lives"</i>
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To show your support for Anton and what he is doing for Felicity be sure to pop over to our <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">DONATE</a> page <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">HERE</a> for way to sponsor his awesome effort!!Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-11729659526780674362012-05-27T23:12:00.000-07:002012-05-27T23:12:17.806-07:00City 2 Surf 2012 - want to join us?Registration for entry into the 2012 <a href="http://www.city2surf.com.au/default.asp?PageID=18225">City 2 Surf</a> have officially opened and we have a growing team ready to take on the world famous, 14km race for Felicity - woohoo!!
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Are you planning to be a part of this event in 2012? I highly recommend it for a great day out in Sydney City. Wether you are a serious racer or just like the outdoors and a bit of people watching this is a day not to be missed.
So far this year we have 4 registered runners who have pledged to complete the course for Felicity and her Son-Rise Program. Our runners - Anton, Julia, Paityn and Amy would love to have you join them as they rally sponsorship donations in the lead up to the day.
If you were planning on being a part of the massive crowd on August 12th why not do it for Felicity and help us reach our fund-raising goal of $5000 for 2012 - we would be very grateful!!
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All you need to do is head <a href="http://www.city2surf.com.au/default.asp?PageID=17826">HERE</a> to the City 2 Surf website and register yourself for the race then shoot us an email to tanya@intellectualdisability.org letting us know you are keen so we can forward you details of how to start letting your friends, family, workmates even strangers know you would love their donations and support - easy!
Let the training begin!!Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-74116548579378269822011-10-01T20:40:00.000-07:002011-10-01T21:43:04.141-07:00Last run of the year - 7 sleeps to go!!Next weekend holds the final event for <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/index.html">Running The Marathon of Autism</a> for 2011. On Sunday 9th of October <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/running-for-felicity.html">Maryke</a> will be running the 42km Melbourne Marathon for <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/about-felicity.html">Felicity</a> on the very same day Felicity will be celebrating her 11th birthday. We reckon that's a great omen for it being a wonderful day and wish Maryke all the best for each and every step her legs take! Run Maryke Run!<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz9mwOkDw0opBC3bTjeAukRNLX8gobHvEHJCapUOn9j8cr6PJMaC7luVeMXDL_2OItjRIfhCv53e53ojdyEWQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><br />Please help us continue to support <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/about-felicity.html">Felicity</a> through her Son-Rise Program by sponsoring Maryke in the HUGE final event of the year. All Donation details can be found by clicking <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">HERE</a> <br /><br />We'll be sure to let you know how the day goes. Both Maryke's marathon run and Felicity's birthday celebrations ;DGiggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-77089547400297869042011-09-19T02:47:00.000-07:002011-09-19T02:57:08.525-07:0020 sleeps to go!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizDGJT3GRK2Va_QYn1olVxvdREL0JjWj-ABjLDg13q6D2Uzw2x-1QWrVZvNjV25eXt-TxIOpyotQnxQzEzsNii9j67xZzZbqblVHAmTCYIrGVnSOMxYb3B-BJ4jb3TlupG8HsB4AXFX5E/s1600/IMG_1161.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizDGJT3GRK2Va_QYn1olVxvdREL0JjWj-ABjLDg13q6D2Uzw2x-1QWrVZvNjV25eXt-TxIOpyotQnxQzEzsNii9j67xZzZbqblVHAmTCYIrGVnSOMxYb3B-BJ4jb3TlupG8HsB4AXFX5E/s200/IMG_1161.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654006983973528210" /></a><br />With only 20 sleeps and more importantly 20 training days left, I have realised I am under-prepared for the marathon. But I am going to line up anyway and give it my best on the day. Having just been to the Autism Treatment Center of America and learning about Autism to help my son Jack overcome his Aspergers, I now, in turn understand so much more about Felicity and the reason I run for her to support her and her family on their journey together. There is so much synergy. It has renewed my faith and hope for a better, brighter, more wonderful future for us all! <div><br /></div><div>The training has been mostly consistent but the runs not long enough for this to be a pleasant day for me on 9/10/11. It's another amazing date and Felicity's birthday! How can I not start!? So, pray for me, send me strong vibes on the day and more importantly if you can DONATE! </div>Marykehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05149735606867132147noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-37877871038929284112011-09-11T19:31:00.000-07:002011-09-11T19:57:05.726-07:00Maryke's Melbourne Marathon Countdown!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgedho4j7ne-k0gwNrtc_6V7lX8TJtOx4KG5YQkEHb2rhPDsgl3cVMFezYoXkUorsu2KXVEvJE_5kjVZFqCfU87iLIvG2aAs1UicYVwxdfQ-ipkzmOFtrMSEIoOAVzmM5wk1W3gcuQCKJ0V/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-09-12+at+12.45.08+PM.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 162px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgedho4j7ne-k0gwNrtc_6V7lX8TJtOx4KG5YQkEHb2rhPDsgl3cVMFezYoXkUorsu2KXVEvJE_5kjVZFqCfU87iLIvG2aAs1UicYVwxdfQ-ipkzmOFtrMSEIoOAVzmM5wk1W3gcuQCKJ0V/s320/Screen+shot+2011-09-12+at+12.45.08+PM.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651300930192378274" /></a><br />This year the <a href="http://www.melbournemarathon.com.au/">Melbourne Marathon</a> that our gorgeous friend Maryke will be taking on AGAIN for Felicity falls on Felicity's birthday - Good omen?? We think so!!<br />On Sunday October 9th Felicity will be celebrating her 11th birthday while fearless Maryke will be taking on the 42KM race through <a href="http://www.melbournemarathon.com.au/customdata/index.cfm?fuseaction=CustomItem&ItemID=32880">Melbourne's streets</a>!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmNW1-2IU7xJpa1POAlyEmSDDR3oXPnwSVg1-rnam-8AxXYCzv9KVuVAwbP-teJmQd0R2c58vB35aAwivEVnxvCAl857W_5_1X7ZJ-FU6W1LKNB20Kr9lHNrvo4PXX3gBxnPDvGBZkDEPb/s1600/IMG_0078.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmNW1-2IU7xJpa1POAlyEmSDDR3oXPnwSVg1-rnam-8AxXYCzv9KVuVAwbP-teJmQd0R2c58vB35aAwivEVnxvCAl857W_5_1X7ZJ-FU6W1LKNB20Kr9lHNrvo4PXX3gBxnPDvGBZkDEPb/s400/IMG_0078.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651300324786683506" /></a><br />Maryke would love all the support she can get in the form of sponsorship donations for Felicity's <a href="http://www.autismtreatmentcenter.org/">Son-Rose Program</a>. Click <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">HERE</a> for all the donation options and details.<br /><br />Only 27 sleeps away - the count down is on! Run Maryke Run!!Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-72009462386985420942011-08-15T18:59:00.001-07:002011-08-15T19:10:19.662-07:00City 2 Surf Results!!What a day! no amount of rain was going to stop our awesome team on Sunday!!
<br />Sarah, Paityn and Amy took on the 14kms with a smile on their face and were thrilled to finally be crossing the start line when the gun went off at 9:05am. In amongst the record crowd of 85,000 entrants the girls had a fun and challenging day out they enjoyed and report they will be back next year to do it all again!
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<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Results:
<br />AMY - 1:32
<br />SARAH - 1:49
<br />PAITYN - 2:17
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<br />"<span style="font-style:italic;">Most importantly we want to say THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU to everyone who was behind us for this run. So many of you gorgeous people who donated, sent well wishes, spread the word about <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/">why we were running</a> and pushed us along the way - you all ROCK!!!!!
<br />We managed to get our fundraising tally to $3708 for <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/">Felicity's Son-Rise Program</a> so a HUGE *high 5* to all of you, THANK YOU!!!</span>" - Amy
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<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">note: Greame had to step out of the run due to family commitments</span>
<br />Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-33105251970153735812011-08-10T21:05:00.000-07:002011-08-10T21:19:24.508-07:00Motivation!Be it motivation to get going in the morning, motivation to bounce around in the playroom with Felicity or motivation to keep running those few last steps to the finish line for our runners....
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<br />Just 3 sleeps left till the City 2 Surf for our four runners Amy, Sarah, Paityn and Greame - Go Team Go!!
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<br />For the ways to help motivate and support these awesome runners with a donation please click <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">HERE</a></span> or to donate with your credit card or paypal account simply click on the yellow Donate button below and follow the easy instructions.
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<br />We aim to raise $5000 and so far are at $3583. It would be so cool to run on Sunday knowing we hit our target!!
<br />Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-40741856485018127982011-07-13T20:38:00.000-07:002011-07-13T20:45:31.641-07:00Just 1 month to go... City 2 Surf!Today is the 14th of July which means in exactly one months time our four City 2 Surf runners will be taking on the 14km race!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii-zUqJIPxwalzdYxjXnM8RQAW5wQvfFP7D0JQvBC26ks2av0gF1jSs9_MyoBZMDngRcS_RmNiQ6gPsLfe0szM46IM-H0YmMeBP45_kKRojyJkhnjn1-tlMvpsfPWSHYoqGMPeiJG0dWV9/s1600/P7130002.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 312px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii-zUqJIPxwalzdYxjXnM8RQAW5wQvfFP7D0JQvBC26ks2av0gF1jSs9_MyoBZMDngRcS_RmNiQ6gPsLfe0szM46IM-H0YmMeBP45_kKRojyJkhnjn1-tlMvpsfPWSHYoqGMPeiJG0dWV9/s400/P7130002.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629047583601818658" /></a><br />Greame, Paityn, Sarah and Amy are on the serious end of the count down and would love you sponsorship to push them along. Check out the Running The Marathon Of Autism website <a href="http://www.intellectualdisability.org/donate.html">HERE</a> for all the details on how you can sponsor all of our runners which them goes directly to support Felicity's full time Son-Rise Program.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirRz6PTcrG9T-bXQpzIQEoeDS8Ik1JCLu6zU0baZPUX4KAgJS4d1eA7q7ufHuheXSRo71J6XaSu_0iF_UKsw2dxoNOwW0Pf4aew2yP6TbZYEN4grqPi_HW3d72g4llyLYQ1kXiSSL7k4cY/s1600/P7130006.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirRz6PTcrG9T-bXQpzIQEoeDS8Ik1JCLu6zU0baZPUX4KAgJS4d1eA7q7ufHuheXSRo71J6XaSu_0iF_UKsw2dxoNOwW0Pf4aew2yP6TbZYEN4grqPi_HW3d72g4llyLYQ1kXiSSL7k4cY/s400/P7130006.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629048574587711618" /></a><br />Oh and thanks again to <a href="http://www.billymac.com.au/">Billy Mac Clothing</a> for our cool race day shirts!!Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-73874580820961998922011-06-29T21:18:00.000-07:002011-06-29T22:10:55.897-07:00"Community Autism"Every Thursday my email inbox receives a weekly 'newsletter', actually it's more of a personal letter, from Graham Long who is the Pastor of <a href="http://www.thewaysidechapel.com/index.php">The Wayside Chapel</a> in Kings Cross. In this letter to The Wayside's <a href="http://www.thewaysidechapel.com/inner-circle.php">"Inner Circle"</a>, as Graham puts it, are personal stories and updates on everything Wayside & Graham are up to and it is an email I receive regularly that I look forward to. Anyway in this weeks letter Graham said the following:<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">".... here I am typing on this beautiful laptop that was a gift of the Kings Cross Rotary; on the next table is a man absorbed with his phone; he's clearly not talking to anyone but he has headphones on and must be playing some kind of game. On the other side is a woman who is reading a document on her iPad. Near her is a couple having breakfast, each of them on the phone to someone; a good number of people walking past have earphones on, they look like they know where they are going although they are quite disengaged from their surroundings; at the fountain there are a couple of people taking photos of themselves; right next to one of these is a man whom I know by sight, engaged in an intense discussion with someone who appears to be not present; a woman walked past just now who I've never known to be psychotic but she's having a fight this morning, it's a full blown argument with someone who appears to be invisible (I once saw this lady's bare bone through an ulcer in her arm); poor sausage, I'm sad to see that she is not really with us today. Traffic is at a standstill because of roadworks in Macleay St and horns are blaring non stop. Philosophically, cars are more like waiting rooms than they are a means of transport these days. I can't see a single car with more than one person in it. If I didn't know better I'd think that I'm looking at a kind of community autism."</span><br /><br />This paragraph stopped me in my tracks. I read it and then read it again. Graham's observations are oh so true for many of our communities. We all seem to disengage from our surroundings allot of the time. This is exactly what we are trying to help Felicity <span style="font-style:italic;">NOT</span> to do. When we enter the playroom with Felicity we want to be 100% <span style="font-weight:bold;">present</span>. We try to create an environment of complete acceptance, energy, enthusiasm, love and want for anything Felicity gives us - wether a quick glance from the corner of her eye, a full blown Felicity style dance and song or even if it's an hour of, what seems like, Felicity is ignoring that we are right there!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifeR7imWtQrVkQIBZ5gFN9F1gA_ygWn_GR6929ONIQvQNZWviUfJ3VfN3rFWkccTwcnqhyphenhyphen1JiYBMByY791G4sDlfKcVR3mxhuRfxxixCu1Q-6wYac_J7OrLuVzJGHzO9vFCZMu03qDmXkQ/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-30+at+2.58.09+PM.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 321px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifeR7imWtQrVkQIBZ5gFN9F1gA_ygWn_GR6929ONIQvQNZWviUfJ3VfN3rFWkccTwcnqhyphenhyphen1JiYBMByY791G4sDlfKcVR3mxhuRfxxixCu1Q-6wYac_J7OrLuVzJGHzO9vFCZMu03qDmXkQ/s400/Screen+shot+2011-06-30+at+2.58.09+PM.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5623872787928293218" /></a><br />Everyday things can catch up with us and put us into a bit of a 'detached routine' but if we took the time every morning and thought: <span style="font-weight:bold;">“Be The Change That You Wish To See In The World” </span> - (as said by Gandhi) just imagine the force of nature you could be! And who knows it might even rub off onto others around you... imagine that?!?<br /><br />Thanks for the reminder Graham xxGiggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-87973128051250325382011-06-23T21:06:00.000-07:002011-06-23T21:14:48.539-07:00Race Day T-ShirtsWe are thrilled to have some very snazzy t-shirts for our runners to wear on their race day/s this year!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVR0ynXBMNkAB00Rs1Dw8-WuXvK6C0IBAjmeKsvvuLtv3GTrCaVCyCpXde2ugX2QlYAbQKnIn_gIUZx05RWP7rxanyM8iSASrhDlMXxmlKgBWaA0yra2t7njNdhUKq_mpShCnViIiQqMa5/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-24+at+2.04.23+PM.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 237px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVR0ynXBMNkAB00Rs1Dw8-WuXvK6C0IBAjmeKsvvuLtv3GTrCaVCyCpXde2ugX2QlYAbQKnIn_gIUZx05RWP7rxanyM8iSASrhDlMXxmlKgBWaA0yra2t7njNdhUKq_mpShCnViIiQqMa5/s400/Screen+shot+2011-06-24+at+2.04.23+PM.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621633374790646866" /></a><br />Designed, printed and so generously donated by <a href="http://www.billymac.com.au/">Billy Mac Clothing</a> these shirts match our website and blog PERFECTLY - aren't they awesome?!?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoj_Iw3JMt6NDWGfVTr8Mh8RHbeLILojcw17dzDKkzB56wXaRPg_zKr9znKU-Nu5OgPBL5w_gXK-K_aAJIJmatAT8kVph8h0hk5pKBJX_CDphHM8I1IPf7em37dzkiIjq38-WIWx9EIG3g/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-24+at+2.13.39+PM.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 148px; height: 147px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoj_Iw3JMt6NDWGfVTr8Mh8RHbeLILojcw17dzDKkzB56wXaRPg_zKr9znKU-Nu5OgPBL5w_gXK-K_aAJIJmatAT8kVph8h0hk5pKBJX_CDphHM8I1IPf7em37dzkiIjq38-WIWx9EIG3g/s320/Screen+shot+2011-06-24+at+2.13.39+PM.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5621634809125161346" /></a><br />These will be worn by our runners to show all those who see them why they are taking each step of the race they are running - Thank you so so so much <a href="http://www.billymac.com.au/">Billy Mac Clothing</a> for helping us & Felicity!Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-79424875847875623092011-06-15T22:24:00.000-07:002011-06-15T22:30:00.387-07:00Thanks Sammy!On May 15th a good friend of Felicity's ran her very first 1/2 Marathon! Sammy, we are so very proud of you and forever grateful for the gift you are to Felicity for taking on this massive challenge!! WooHoo!!<br /><br />We asked Sammy if she would maybe write a few lines about her run and these gorgeous words are what Sammy had to share: <br /><span style="font-style:italic;">“The thought of doing a half marathon was both exciting and incredibly scary. I am a personal trainer and dancer so was reasonably fit but to run a half was definitely a long stretch. I’m always up for a fun challenge and to be able to raise money for felicity was the driving force. I lived next door to her for almost a year and was lucky enough to be able to spend time with her. The strength and love from felicity’s family and her wonderful nature made me compelled in any way I could to give back. The training was tough and the closer I got the more anxious I got. A week to go I was so freaked out…I thought I wasn’t going to make the cut off times…then several days before I accepted that I was running for the right reasons, and however far I got would be an incredible achievement…and that attitude helped me run the half in 2:36! I have performed on stage and presented in front of thousands of people, and completed events before but running the half marathon was one of the most incredible experiences of my life! The thought of felicity laughing and skipping besides me, and calling out my name kept me going…I imagined her living the most incredible life possible and reaching all her hopes and dreams…that for me inspired me that I can do anything. I would recommend anyone to go out there and try…for the experience, and if not that, to help a little girl live the best life possible”</span><br /><br />Thanks again & again Sammy - truly AWEsome!!Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1646800445573706992.post-86092276956028205202011-06-06T20:50:00.000-07:002011-06-06T21:16:37.863-07:00Getting ready to race for 2011!Another year, another bunch of races & keen runners for our <a href="http://intellectualdisability.org/">Running The Marathon Of Autism</a> campaign!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dSy_0jKWp-AgRxhdcu8B3LTMVyXN6DOOYMHdHZ7eUQwkADxikywqEW4C820PL0xfN6-vd9XejDLCmKhqOpcFrJlalmIdJD1rn4iPmkkphKqJE02e9DAVb1QBtUtooyP06BVTz75ylcS1/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-07+at+2.12.10+PM.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dSy_0jKWp-AgRxhdcu8B3LTMVyXN6DOOYMHdHZ7eUQwkADxikywqEW4C820PL0xfN6-vd9XejDLCmKhqOpcFrJlalmIdJD1rn4iPmkkphKqJE02e9DAVb1QBtUtooyP06BVTz75ylcS1/s320/Screen+shot+2011-06-07+at+2.12.10+PM.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615325954914075122" /></a><br />We congratulate Sammy on the Half Marathon she ran on May 15th. This was a HUGE effort for Sammy and what a gorgeous thing for her to do it in Felicity's name! We are yet to work out the final tally from the donations and sponsorships made to Sammy's race but believe it stands around the $700 mark - Thank you Sammy!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCjDzV2_92dS61NblmotP0tGLYMpEo4wIERXU34zDyu1kD4MsyJAQzCpknB857g9BUqJMxYyJyepIU5WbZ8yfrxzd3s37IZ14hxxeLAN11jHabNRRFiNVnjxz4WjsOQm-PkX9WbDuy8i5J/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-07+at+2.03.51+PM.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 156px; height: 152px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCjDzV2_92dS61NblmotP0tGLYMpEo4wIERXU34zDyu1kD4MsyJAQzCpknB857g9BUqJMxYyJyepIU5WbZ8yfrxzd3s37IZ14hxxeLAN11jHabNRRFiNVnjxz4WjsOQm-PkX9WbDuy8i5J/s320/Screen+shot+2011-06-07+at+2.03.51+PM.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615325235228255394" /></a><br />The next race we are counting down to is the Gold Coast Half Marathon on July 3rd. Maryke will be taking this race on and also using it as part of her training for when she runs the Melbourne full Marathon in October this year.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZvmI5TY1Bps6GPPecTuHJ9t7on8ozT1-HNebWFUEQA5-gQnPtbaFGitpcEu4qg4oqPrr9XuLRZRJLG_6AFvfPm794JD7Qx008YtQ_ywltxuTW8XDkF400JeIiVA5MMId18l_dGO6PoBxj/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-07+at+2.04.25+PM.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 242px; height: 102px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZvmI5TY1Bps6GPPecTuHJ9t7on8ozT1-HNebWFUEQA5-gQnPtbaFGitpcEu4qg4oqPrr9XuLRZRJLG_6AFvfPm794JD7Qx008YtQ_ywltxuTW8XDkF400JeIiVA5MMId18l_dGO6PoBxj/s320/Screen+shot+2011-06-07+at+2.04.25+PM.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615325338044348322" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGF6b3lyz3KZfToOSj6LVW3ElKJ60EKwNCtv6ZLEqSh-NS6qXXc5rtk3tD0T5gTuaXFC7M72LKgY17PPcvs1ZVtzLgrdDCgZjl75ZUW1FGJm1gxa1QZ-AYszgYSqtGTa0XAZFfAEvNVtU3/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-07+at+2.02.04+PM.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGF6b3lyz3KZfToOSj6LVW3ElKJ60EKwNCtv6ZLEqSh-NS6qXXc5rtk3tD0T5gTuaXFC7M72LKgY17PPcvs1ZVtzLgrdDCgZjl75ZUW1FGJm1gxa1QZ-AYszgYSqtGTa0XAZFfAEvNVtU3/s320/Screen+shot+2011-06-07+at+2.02.04+PM.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5615323406873231458" /></a><br />Between those two races is the Sydney City2Surf. With less than 10 weeks to go until the August 14th race we have (so far) 4 registered runners ready to take on the 14kms for Felicity! Sarah, Paityn, Greame and me (Amy) are squeezing in morning runs and training sessions to build up our fitness in the hope we don't all drop dead on race day!!<br /><br />Bring it on!!Giggleberry (Amy)http://www.blogger.com/profile/18236113276212667368noreply@blogger.com0