TENTATIVE 61 HALF-MARATHON SCHEDULE

If there is somone for whom you would like "prayer miles" dedicated to, contact Lee at leehoedl@yahoo.com.

2011 Fargo Marathon (May 21, 2011): All Along the Marathon Route - A Warm-Up to the 61in '11

To view a larger version of this video, click on the YouTube icon in the lower right corner of the video.

WEEK OF MAY 30

May 30 - My first half marathon of 61 is dedicated to my father and father-in-law (along with all men and women) who served our nation faithfully in military service. It is because of your dedication that powerful words such as sacrifice, honor and commitment have a face and a wonderful example.

June 1 - Half marathon #2 of 61 is dedicated to Jillian Hansen; who will undergo a spinal fusion this Thursday in St. Paul. Please include her and and her family in your prayers. She will be hospitalized for 7-10 days.

June 4 - Athletic Republic Half Marathon Race; Fergus Falls, MN - Half marathon #3 of 61 is dedicated to a dear friend who suffers daily with a degenerative muscle condition. He continues to be a wonderful example to me of how the human spirit can and will always rise above the human condition.

WEEK OF JUNE 6

June 7 - Half marathon #4 of 61 is dedicated to Carl and Mercedes Hanson and their family. May your wonderful selfless to community, family and school continue to flourish.

June 9 - Half marathon #5 of 61 is dedicated to our dear friends and neighbors, Drew and Kathleen Wrigley, who will be leaving our neighborhood for a very promising future. You will be missed but never forgotten - thank you for some wonderful moments.

June 11 - Half marathon #6 of 61 is dedicated to Fr. Jim Meyer for a speedy recovery. As a priest, you have ministered to so many people over the years; be sure to allow some of these individuals minister to you in your recovery. Godspeed to you!

WEEK OF JUNE 13

June 14 - Half marathon #7 of 61 is dedicated to Jillian Hansen; who underwent the second portion of her spinal fusion today. Blessings for a healthy and promising recovery, Jillian!

REFLECTION: 06.15.11 - Along the Miles and Trials

June 16 - Half marathon #8 of 61 is dedicated to my former teacher, Stan Wielinski, who underwent back surgery on May 15. A speedy recovery to you, Stan.

June 18 - Half marathon #9 of 61 is completed on the northern side of Perham, MN, this morning... and I finished the last mile through the finish line of the Perham Turtlefest 10K finish line. This half marathon is dedicated to my friend Jackie, who lost her mother in May. The sting of the loss is always and eventually surpassed by the loving embrace of your memories, Jackie.

WEEK OF JUNE 20

June 21 - Half marathon #10 of 61 is dedicated to my running colleague, Paul Melby. He was an avid runner all of his life who, on May 14th, finished the Lake Wobegan Marathon and qualified for the Boston Marathon - one of his lifelong goals. His friends informed me that he crossed the line with a big smile on his face, collapsed and died. Paul was only 35 yrs. old and leaves behind his wife Shelly and three young children. To Paul's family: Although it may be of little comfort now, please believe that his finish at the Heavenly Gates was infinitely more dramatic and fulfilling than Boston ever could be. Godspeed, Paul.

June 23 - Half marathon #11 of 61 is under crisp clear skies early this morning, as the two-day rain clouds headed out of the Fargo area. This half marathon is dedicated to all of our families and friends in the central and western portion of North Dakota who are still dealing with flooding issues and potential loss of homes... we're with you in spirit, North Dakotans.

REFLECTION: 06.26.11 - Along the Miles and Trials

June 25 - Half marathon #12 of 61 is dedicated to all of our families and relatives in the Minot, North Dakota area who are suffering catastrophic flooding issues. If interested, check out this video below to see images of this crisis. Stay strong, Minot.

WEEK OF JUNE 27

June 28 - Half marathon #13 of 61 is dedicated to my classmates of the Perham High School Class of 1981. Our lives have taken so many different paths but we will always remain Yellowjackets. See you all at our 30th Year Class Reunion on this Friday, July 1.

June 30 - Half marathon #14 of 61 is completed on Thurs., June 30 at 4:00 am in 77-degree temps and high humidity. This half marathon is dedicated to the Audria King family and their two-year-old daughter who was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer. As a friend of mine posted on Facebook, "IF YOU SEE THIS POST, EVEN IF YOU DON'T KNOW HER, GOD KNOWS HER... PLEASE POST THIS TO YOUR PROFILE FOR ONE HOUR AND SAY A PRAYER FOR THIS LITTLE GIRL... THE POWER OF PRAYER SPEAKS VOLUMES... PLEASE POST AND GOD BLESS YOU FOR DOING THIS."

July 2 - Half marathon #15 of 61 is dedicated my nieces Laura and Andrea Clarens who recently graduated from Fargo South High School. Your journey and adventure is just beginning! Our whole family is proud of you!

WEEK OF JULY 4

July 5 - Half marathon #16 of 61 is dedicated to my classmate's husband Matt who has recently been diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer. Matt, patience and fortitude conquer all things. Stay strong and stay faithful.

July 7 - Amidst a clear-sky 86-degree evening, I fought my way through 13.1 miles to complete #17 of 61; a run dedicated to a dear friend going through a very difficult time. "The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places." (Ernest Hemingway)

July 9 - Following a very early morning rain shower, I found myself sweating through 6.5 miles and chilled through the remaining 6.6 miles (depending on which direction I was running with the wind)... #18 of 61 is completed and dedicated to a dear and tender soul, my Aunt Lois, who has been such a support to so many others throughout her life.

WEEK OF JULY 11

July 12 - As I chair a committee to renovate my children's elementary school (Nativity Elementary School) this week - installing fitness stations and a sport court, I dedicate my early morning #19 half marathon to the volunteers that have been so faithful throughout this project to assist all of our children at Nativity [visit Nativity Playground Renovation to see our progress].

July 14 - An early morning humid #20 is dedicated to a special young man, Will Dangerfield, that I became acquainted with through a friend. In 2009, Will was diagnosed with a brain tumor. It stabilized in 2010 and the family found out in February 2011 that Will's tumor was growing.

From what I have read about Will, he is a lively and optimistic spirit. My 13.1 miles is dedicated to relieve any pain he may be experiencing.

Post-Run Addendum: It is with a very heavy heart that I share with you that I was informed this morning (July 17) that Will earned his angel wings early today... Godspeed Will and blessings and strength to your dear family.

July 16 - My running took a new course as I ran through downtown Minneapolis and around Lake Calhoun and Lake of the Isles... #21 of 61 is completed and dedicated to infant Finley Groener and to her parents Diane and Sean - I cannot possibly fathom the loss of one's child and after the 13.1 miles, I'm still at a loss for words and filled with tremendous sorrow. Peace to you, Finley.

WEEK OF JULY 18

July 19 - Due to early morning torrential rains that flooded our streets, I had to set out later - on the projected hottest day of summer - at 7:30 am in a temp of 74 and returned 2 hours later in a temp of 86 (heat index above 90)... and weighing 6 pounds lighter... #22 of 61 is completed and dedicated to my uncle, John Madick. May all God's angels surround you and support you... and may miracles abound in all forms, Uncle John.

July 21 - Our area of the United States received a well-received reprieve from the ongoing summer heat. In the cool morning air, I was able to successfully complete #23 of 61. This half marathon is dedicated to Millie Bach, the mother of a friend of mine; Millie has been battling with chemotherapy for the past several years. Along these miles, Millie, I prayed that our Almighty would bring you greater peace and strength in your journey ahead... you are not alone.

July 23 - Run Round The Rose Road Race; Vergas, MN - Following another late-night summer storm, it was refreshing to run in the cooler temperatures and the hilly terrain around Rose Lake of Vergas, MN. This #24 race is dedicated to my wonderful wife and soulmate Diann. Love, you remain patient with me through the days when I'm too tired to carry on a conversation, and yet, you support every step of the way. Thank you for who you are and who you are helping me to become.

WEEK OF JULY 25

July 26 - It's now noticeable that the sun is taking longer to rise in the early morning hours; half of my miles this early morning were in very little of the morning's light. Regardless, the miles of #25 were completed in the cool temperatures and are dedicated to my mother Mable. She is a quiet strength within our family - thanks, Mom.

July 28 - #26 of 61 is dedicated to Kathy Baird, who continues to face head-on her journey with cancer. Kathy, a hero is an ordinary individual who finds t the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles (Christopher Reeves). You are and remain an extraordinary hero, Kathy.

July 30 - Perham Harrier Half Marathon Race; Perham, MN - #27 of 61 finds me back in my old high school stomping grounds of Perham, Minnesota, for a race around Pine Lake. And if heat weren't enough in these summer days, a dash of lightning, thunder, torrential rains and wind (and slight hail) during the later miles of this race makes this half marathon one of THE most memorable of all races for me.

#27 of 61 is dedicated to Shirley Summerville, who is presently going through chemotherapy, following surgery to remove as much of her Stage 4 brain cancer. Please pray with me that Shirley's life will continue to glorify God's love and purpose.

Shirley, "the wings of hope carry us, soaring high above the driving winds of life" (Ana Jacob). You will remain in my prayers along and beyond this journey of mine.

REFLECTION: 07.31.11 - Along the Miles and Trials

WEEK OF AUGUST 1

August 2 - Along Highway 61 on the North Shore of Minnesota, #28 of 61 was completed under sunny skies. There is NOTHING better than running on the North Shore, with Lake Superior to your side.

This half marathon is dedicated to Vickie. Vickie, anyone can give up, it's the easiest thing in the world to do. But to hold it together when everyone else would understand if you fell apart, that's true strength. Blessings and strength to you.

August 4 - Back in Fargo after several days in northern Minnesota, I chose to run in the early morning dark and cool temps. #29 of 61 is completed and dedicated to Anders. Anders is a 14-year-old who has an aggressive form of brain cancer which has now spread to his spine. He was diagnosed in December of 2009 and has been putting up a courageous fight every day since. Currently, he is receiving monthly treatments of chemo by surgically administering the drug directly on the tumor site in his brain. Please keep Anders in your personal prayers as well.

Anders, there is a fountain of youth: It is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring in your life and the lives of people you love. Continue to express that creativity, talent and love throughout all your days. You are a hero of mine.

August 6 - Reaching the halfway point of this adventure, #30 of 61 is completed along the shores of Pine Lake near Perham, MN. This half marathon is dedicated to Josh. Josh was diagnosed with lymphoma just after the birth of his first child on July 1. At this point, his prognosis is good, but prayers are always welcomed.

Josh, strength and focus to you as you continue on this path that may seem dark and uncertain. Blessings to you and your family as you glorify God's grace for you.

WEEK OF AUGUST 8

August 9 - The days are definitely getting shorter as I leave the house at the same time (4:00 am) and the sun's first rays aren't to be found until closer to 6:00 am. However, it does make for much cooler running.

On this starlit morning, #31 of 61 was completed. The halfway point of my total mileage was passed at Mile 10 at 5:31 am... and I am thankful to be in the second half of this adventure has begun.

This half marathon is dedicated to Jeannie Critelli's father and Jimmy Critelli's grandfather. Jimmy's grandfather suffered a heart attack on July 26 and was scheduled for surgery on July 27. Prayers for a speedy recovery and God's watchful eye.

August 11 - Another cool and gloriously starlit early morning half marathon along the silent streets of Fargo; only 3 cars encountered all along University Drive. It was a morning made for magic and mystery.

This half marathon, #32 of 61, is dedicated to Jack Kennelly who is recovering from prostate cancer surgery. To you, Jack, I share this powerful Latin phrase: "“Dum spiro, spero." It translates, "While I breath, I hope." Continue to remain hopeful throughout your life and beyond.

August 13 - Deep in Area Lakes Country, #33 of 61 is completed along the misty morning roads of Ottertail County.

This half marathon is dedicated to two-year-old Jasmine Rose Wilson who was struck by a car while in a crosswalk on University Drive (where I run by most mornings) on August 1. She died days later from complications. I cannot imagine the immense pain her family must feel, but my heart and these miles go out to them. May they feel the healing grace of the Almighty in the days to come.

REFLECTION: 08:14.11 - Along the Miles and Trials

WEEK OF AUGUST 15

August 16 - #34 of 61 is completed along the humid early morning miles in Fargo. This half marathon is dedicated to Sarah and her ongoing health issues and her husband Tony and his heart valve concerns. That is quite a bit for just one family to handle... Sarah and Tony, "...hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." (Romans 5:5)

Aug. 19-20 - 196-Mile Great River Team Relay Race - Winona to Minneapolis - #35 and #36 were completed along my cumulative miles as a team member of a nonstop distance relay team known as The Assorted Nuts. We have run the 196-mile Great River Relay each year and always have a blast [Check out our story at ASSORTED NUTS and see our team photo below].

These weekend half marathon runs are dedicated to my relatives, Jim Healy and John Hiller. Jim has recently had serious gall bladder issues and surgery. John has been diagnosed with lung cancer and began radiation and chemo on August 17. Prayers and blessings and strength and patience to both of you, Jim and John, as your lives continue to glorify God's wonderful presence in this world.

10,000 MILESTONE: As a sidenote, somewhere just beyond 2 miles into my night run on the Great River Relay, I finally surpassed the cumulative mark of 10,000 total miles since the beginning of 2006. I did take a moment to pray for and thank the Almighty for all of you that have been supporting and cheering for me all these years... it couldn't have been done without you. 

WEEK OF AUGUST 22

August 23 - One day before the beginning of school, I had what I believe will be my final "very early" morning (4 am) half marathon (#37) of these 61 half marathons. As my children head off to school, I will be adjusting my schedule so I can sleep past 3 am and beginning running at 8 am.

This particular half marathon is dedicated to my cousin Debbie Suvanto, her husband Don and her family . Don, unexpectedly at the age of 52, died in his sleep on August 13. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Debbie and family.

August 25 - Now that my children in school, it's time to start my midmorning runs/races once again... And to celebrate, #38 is completed under clear and humid North Dakota skies.

This half marathon is dedicated a dear friend who is experiencing personal challenges at work, as many of us do from time to time. As Dorothea Brande states, "All that is necessary to break the spell of inertia and frustration is to - act as if it were impossible to fail." As well, this half marathon is dedicated to the many friends and colleagues who are struggling to find employment in a very tight economy.

August 27 - #39 is completed and in the books as the journey turns toward the final third of its adventure...

This half marathon is dedicated to Katie Ellingson. Katie, as the wonderful saying states, "The fireworks begin today. Your diploma is a lighted match. And you are a fuse." Let your adventure and life light up the sky with success!

WEEK OF AUGUST 29

August 30 - Finally #40 arrives on the front of a thunderstorm - very humid, but now it's very DONE.

This special half marathon, which leads me into the "___teens" that are left, is dedicated to the 38+ victims and their families of Hurricane Irene this past weekend. Most especially, these miles are dedicated to 11-year-old Zahir Robinson whose life was cut very short when a tree felled by Irene's winds crashed through his family's apartment. Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.

September 1 - #41 comes under very unusual and humid conditions in early September; temperatures in the low 80s.

This half marathon is dedicated to my Uncle Frank Madick, who continues to live with the loss of his dear wife Erma. Frank, as Emily Dickinson so eloquently stated it, "Unable are the loved to die. For love is immortality. "

September 3 - #42 witnesses the crisp fall temperatures finally arriving to the North Dakota region - clear skies and temperatures in low 60s make for outstanding running... and brings my remaining half marathons into the teens: 19, 18, 17....

This half marathon is dedicated to my wonderful Patient Partner through Children's Hospital, E.J. Spellman (shown right). E.J. is a spry young man who is a few years older than my oldest son Leo. He is a resilient young man who lives with the challenge of living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (brittle bones) every day of this his life. And it is a condition that has left him to heal over 300 broken bones in his lifetime. He was my Patient Partner at the 2009 Boston Marathon and the 2010 Disney World Marathon and he is my gracious Patient Partner for the 2011 New York City Marathon. I hope all is well with you and your family, E.J.

WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 5

September 7 - As the date moves closer to the 10th anniversary of 9/11, half marathon #43 is specifically dedicated to the children who were senselessly killed in the attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001.

The sad truth is a handful of children died in the 9/11 attacks. It is ironic that all the children on the planes were going to 1 of 2 places: a scholastic academic convention or Disneyland. One source states the following youthful victims on these planes:

Asia Cottom (age 11)
Bernard Curtis II (age 11)
Rodney Dickens (age 11)
David Branhorst-Gamboa (2nd youngest age 2-3)
Christine Lee Hanson (youngest age 2)
Juliana Valentine McCourt (age 4)

Another sources states the following: Though there were no children killed in the World Trade Center on 9/11, eight children were aboard the planes that hit the buildings. Five aboard Flight 77 (all under the age of 12) and three aboard Flight 175 (ages 2-4.)

God bless these young souls and their families who will forever miss their presence.

September 8 - #44 is completed under sunny and hopeful skies and is dedicated soulfully to the firefighters, NYPD officers and Port Authority police officers that rushed into the terror and danger to rescue human life on September 11, 2001... and ultimately, lost their own life.

Sources state the following totals who gave their life selflessly:

Number of firefighters and paramedics killed: 343

Number of NYPD officers killed: 23

Number of Port Authority police officers killed: 37

REFLECTION: 09.08.11 - Along the Miles and Trials

September 10 - Dick Beardsley Half Marathon Race - Detroit Lakes, MN - Just short of three-quarters of the journey completed, #45 will be completed along the roadways that circle Detroit Lake.

This specific half marathon is dedicated to the victims and their families of the grave tragedy of September 11, 2001. May God bring the families peace in the years and decades to come.

Sources state that:

The initial numbers are indelible: 8:46 a.m. and 9:02 a.m. Time the burning towers stood: 56 minutes and 102 minutes. Time they took to fall: 12 seconds. From there, they ripple out.

Total number killed in attacks (official figure as of 9/5/02): 2,819

Number of firefighters and paramedics killed: 343

Number of NYPD officers: 23

Number of Port Authority police officers: 37

Number of employees who died in Tower One: 1,402

Number of employees who died in Tower Two: 614

Number of nations whose citizens were killed in attacks: 115

Bodies found "intact": 289

Body parts found: 19,858

Number of families who got no remains: 1,717

Number of people who lost a spouse or partner in the attacks: 1,609

Estimated number of children who lost a parent: 3,051

Percentage of Americans who knew someone hurt or killed in the attacks: 20

Number of firefighters on leave for respiratory problems by January 2002: 300

Tons of debris removed from site: 1,506,124

Days fires continued to burn after the attack: 99

Estimated cost of cleanup: $600 million

Total FEMA money spent on the emergency: $970 million

Estimated amount donated to 9/11 charities: $1.4 billion

Estimated number of New Yorkers suffering from post-traumatic-stress disorder as a result of 9/11: 422,000

WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 12

September 13 - Half marathon #46 is completed and dedicated to Linda and her children who are and will be going through a difficult situation in the near future. Blessings and strength to you as you support and protect your family, Linda.

September 15 - After a summer of high heat and humidity, the 45-degree morning temperature is welcomed as half marathon #47 is completed.

This particular half marathon is dedicated to Madison Bartz. Madison, it was Mother Teresa who stated, "“If I look at the mass, I will never act.” I can't imagine the helplessness and anguish you must feel looking back on that evening, but in time, turn that helplessness into an avenue to help others. Remember Jasmine and help others in her memory.

September 17 - Following a morning of coaching my children's soccer games, it was a relaxing warm-down to hit the pavement and complete half marathon #48 during a cool Saturday midafternoon.

This particular half marathon is dedicated to all the young men and women I have had the pleasure to coach and teach over these many years... and especially these young boys and girls of the Nativity soccer teams, Fire and Chivas. It was Henry Ford who stated, "Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success." I pray for your success all your days.

WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 19

REFLECTION: 09.20.11 - Along the Miles and Trials

September 20 - Amidst the wind- and rain-swept morning hours, half marathon #49 is completed, into the wind.

This particular half marathon is dedicated to a very dear and lifelong friend of mine that is presently moving beyond a painful divorce. She is one of the most phenomenal and generous persons I have ever known and deserves only the very best in Life and love. This half marathon is also dedicated to all the spouses, and especially the children, that are affected by the pain of divorce and their struggle for sanity and self esteem.

September 22 - The final major milestone of half marathon #50 has been completed and passed...

This half marathon is dedicated to the wonderful Sullivan 8th grade students who will be striking out on Friday (Sept. 23) to complete a 10-mile spiritual pilgrimage across the city of Fargo. Collectively, they are wonderful leaders, students and friends.

POST NOTE: Following the wonderful and selfless feat of helping to raise over $10,000 to benefit Little Flower School in Minot, which was destroyed by flood waters, this 8th grade class proceeded to march/walk/skip/run as a class from: Holy Spirit Church to the St. Paul Newman Center to St. Mary's Cathedral to St. Anthony's Church to Nativity Church to Sts. Anne & Joachim Church... approximately 10 miles of a very spirited pilgrimage. Along with praying a rosary at each location and celebrating Mass at St. Anthony's Church, they also cheered on and inspired local drivers and pedestrians. As one of the signs that they carried throughout the pilgrimage proudly stated, "Honk If You Love Jesus!"

Many of these young women and men came into the Shanley Homecoming Weekend as tired soles, but satisfied souls. Join us for a few moments along the miles of this pilgrimage: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DezioZjunrg

September 24 - While on this date Roger Maris had only two home runs left to set the alltime single season 61-homerun record, I still have miles to run before I sleep. In the very early morning North Dakota chilled air, I completed my 51st half marathon since June 1 of this year. Only 10 more half marathons, with the final half marathon occurring on Tuesday, October 18.

This half marathon is dedicated to a young man whom I have run prayerful miles for already: Anders Flaa (see Half Marathon #29). He is a brave young man who has an aggressive form of brain cancer which has now spread to his spine. He was diagnosed in December of 2009 and has been putting up a courageous fight every day since.

In early September, his family received results from his MRI that his disease has spread to an area beyond what medical technology can address today. Please keep Anders in your prayers in these coming weeks.

WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 26

September 27 - In 1961, fellow Fargoan and Yankee legend Roger Maris is within one home run of setting the alltime single season homerun record and this morning (Sept. 27), in the unusually warm and bright fall weather, I completed my 52nd half marathon in 1:54. Nine more half marathons remain, with the final half marathon occurring on Tuesday, October 18.

This particular half marathon is dedicated to all the men and women of our armed forces who are currently being deployed around the world, especially United States Marine Corps Captain Caleb Eames. Caleb is a dear friend of mine, a fellow runner on past endurance races and a wonderful husband and father. As I stated to you previously, Caleb, you are one of our country's most faithful soldiers, but even more so, you are one of God's greatest servants. GODSPEED, brother.

September 29 - In 1961, fellow Fargoan and Yankee legend Roger Maris is within one home run of setting the alltime single season homerun record, while I fought my way through swirling winds to complete half marathon #53 in 2011. Eight more half marathons remain, with the final half marathon occurring on Tuesday, October 18.

This particular half marathon is dedicated to Anders Flaa, his sister Hannah and his family. I had previously dedicated half marathon #29 to Anders. Although I may have "flooded" your email account with updates and donation requests over these past 18 weeks, I would sincerely like to ask you for just one more favor. Simply add Anders and his family to your prayer chains, prayer groups, family prayer and personal prayer; offer him and his family up to the Almighty and ask that angels surround his remaining days with love and strength and grace and tenderness.

When I informed my own family of Anders' condition and prognosis and that I had dedicated a half marathon to him, my 8-year-old daughter Hannah simply asked, "Daddy, why didn't you run a whole marathon for him?" For those of you who know me, you know that I would run as many miles as my legs could possibly carry me if I knew it could add one more day to Anders' life or add one more moment without pain within his day. But I realize that none of us are ever in this race, this journey, alone or could we ever finish this journey just by ourself. In that spirit, I ask you to simply keep Anders and his family in your family/personal prayers and leave the rest to the Almighty.

With a 14-year-old son of my own, I can't begin to imagine the pain and sorrow Anders' family must feel or the doubt and helplessness that Anders must feel. So, again, please keep Anders and his family in your prayers. We are truly bound together and are in this journey together... praying unceasingly for one another.

In advance, thank you for your support for this young man and his family.

Oct. 1 - In 1961, fellow Fargoan and Yankee legend Roger Maris set the alltime single season homerun record in the last game of the regular season, helping the Yankees win 1-0.

This morning (Oct. 1, 2011), half marathon #54 was completed at 5:30 am amidst 40-degree brisk temperatures. Only 7 more half marathons remain, with the final half marathon occurring on Tuesday, October 18.

This particular half marathon is dedicated to Naomi Grace who was born Thursday night to Rachel and Jim Farnsworth. May all children be graced with such a loving family. Grow strong, confident and tall, Naomi.

WEEK OF OCTOBER 3

October 4 - Under very unusual warm 75-degree-summer-like-temperatures, half marathon #55 is completed and in the history book. Six more half marathons (thank goodness) to go...

This particular half marathon is dedicated to the memory of my grandmother Mary Hoedl; a true matriarch is there ever was one. She was woman filled with faith and a fighter in all of Life's battles. She was and is my hero and was my most favorite person to watch scary movies when I was just a young boy. Happy birthday today, Grandma Mary...

October 6 - The warm fall weather continues in the Fargo-Moorhead area with temperatures in the mid 60s. However, this morning, the winds were gusting around 30-40 mph in all directions. Even though the legs took quite a beating, half marathon #56 is completed.

This half marathon is dedicated to all stages of Life in our world: from the unborn to the disadvantaged, from the strong to the weak, from the gifted to the challenged, and from the young to the old(er). We need to take account of our individual days and our journey and discover a way to nurture and infuse a bit of inspiration into each life we meet... it's that one life that just passed you that may be the "tipping point" to a greater future.

Hoedl and His Sponsors/Donors Surpasses Goal of $6100

October 8 - FM Mini Marathon Race - Fargo, ND - The finish line - not only to this race but also the end of my 61-half-marathon journey - is just ahead in the distance... As for today, half marathon #57 was completed in the cool temps along the FM Mini Marathon; a wonderfully designed course along the Red River of Fargo-Moorhead. My congratulations to the Race Director team - Mark Knutson, Mike Almquist, Megan Eblen, Carol Sexton - and all of their wonderful volunteers.

This half marathon is dedicated to Mike Simpson, a father, husband and runner, who lost his wife Lori to a brain tumor in late September of this year. He is a fellow runner and will be joining me as one of the participants in the 2011 New York City Marathon.

Mike stated recently, "We are doing pretty good, kind of numb right now, but we are putting one foot in front of the other and moving forward. She is always on our mind, of course. Everyone (including me) says time will make it better. And that is true. We just have to keep getting out of bed, making our "to-do lists", loving our family and friends, and living. There's no other choice..."

Mike and family, you are also on the minds and hearts of so many family, loved ones, colleagues and strangers... including me. I hope the race in New York and the days/months ahead bring you strength and peace. As I've stated before, tthe sting of the loss is always and eventually surpassed by the loving embrace of your memories. Continue to remember Lori and bring her into each day of your life and the life of your children. God bless you and your journey.

WEEK OF OCTOBER 10

October 11 - It is so nice to see the final turn into the final three half marathons. Unusually warm temps of mid 70s (but no complaints here) in mid-October made for WONDERFUL running weather.

Half Marathon #58 is dedicated to my many fellow runners who have personally struggled through their own injuries, personal issues and race day difficulties in order to reach that sometimes elusive finish line. This half marathon specifically remembers William Caviness, 35, of Greensboro, North Carolina, who collapsed 500 yards from the finish line of October 9, 2011 Chicago Marathon. Prayers of support and strength to his family.

October 13 - Feeling the slow onset of plantar faciitis in my right foot (not surprising), I've been doing everything I can to keep it at bay until after the Nov. 6 NYC Marathon. Half marathon #59 was completed under another beautiful morning fall sky and opened city streets (which many have been closed since midsummer).

This particular half marathon is dedicated to a lively young man, Aidan Devine. He is a second grader in my triplets' class at Nativity Elementary School. He suffered a compound fracture in a car accident this week. Heal that leg well, Aidan!

Post Note: It is with great sadness that I share with you that Anders Flaa (my prayer partner of Half Marathons #29 and #53) went on ahead in his journey yesterday (10.13.11) at 3:45 pm. His family posted the following message today: "... Anders has fought a very difficult, at times, painful fight for the past two years. We can not put into words how proud we are of him and how thankful we are that we had 14 amazing years raising him, teaching him, and learning from him. His passing was truly peaceful, in his parents arms with sister and grandparents close at hand."

The first Medals4Mettle honor of the newly formed North Dakota Chapter was awarded this week to Anders. He was a vibrant soul and my heart and prayers go out to the family and his little sister Hannah. Mile 1 of my NYC Marathon on November 6 had already been dedicated to Anders prior to his death. Godspeed Anders.

October 15 - Facing a full morning of children's soccer, I chose to set out on my moonlit 4 a.m. half marathon #60. It was completed among my fellow observers, seven vehicles and random river otter that bravely crossed University Drive.

This half marathon is dedicated to all of my mentors and former supervisors who have been an inspiration to me over the years; from my early days in college under the tutelage of such insightful supervisors as Jan Miller, Marianne Johnson and Dr. LesPavek to my post college days under the mentorship of Gary Narum, Lillian Cole and Prakash Mathew and into my later career with such supervisors as Warren Hale, Jim McMahon, Al Sickbert, Greg Roberts and Janna Mausolf Stoskopf. Through their own specific styles and personalities, they have helped me to further articulate the person, leader and sorjourner I am today - both as a professional and as a person. Thanks to you all so much!

In particular, this half marathon isdedicated to Warren Hale, a former supervisor who passed away in December 2010 but whose selfless and caring spirit is still a wonderful example to me. If I am able to be that example for at least one other person, I can leave this world as a happy soul.

WEEK OF OCTOBER 17

October 18 - 20 weeks later, 140 days and 800 miles down the road, I have completed my promised 61 half marathons. And in the process, you, my friends and sponsors, have helped to raise over $6500 (at the time of this video posting) for Children's Hospital.

This particular capstone video of my journey is dedicated to all my prayer partners (listed in the video) along these 800 solitary miles. And it is especially dedicated to a man that was more than simply a Major League baseball player that captured the single-season home run record in 1961. He was a testimony to fortitude under adversity and a powerful example of humble devotion to a life well-lived.

50 years later, this video - and my final half marathon, #61 - is dedicated to the patients/families that have graced the doors of the Roger Maris Cancer Center and ultimately, the inspiration behind "61 for $6100 in 2011 for Children's Hospital": fellow North Dakotan Roger Maris.

Now it is on to the Big Apple to celebrate/run in the 2011 New York City Marathon on November 6. Thanks again to all my sponsors and donors!

NEW YORK CITY MARATHON - NOVEMBER 6, 2011

BLESSINGS TO ALL MY SUPPORTERS, SPONSORS AND DONORS.

YOU CONTINUE TO MAKE ME A BELIEVER IN THE HUMAN RACE.

TO YOU IS DEDICATED THIS LOGO I DESIGNED FOR THE 2011 NYC MARATHON, IN MEMORY OF ALL THE BRAVE SOULS OF 9.11 AND ALL MY FELLOW RUNNERS ON 11.6