Run for NYC

Run a virtual race for the victims of Hurricane Sandy….whether it’s a marathon, half marathon or 5K, sign up today to run and raise money for the recovery efforts during the week. 100% of the money raised goes to the Red Cross relief fund.

 

http://www.run4nyc.com/

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My First Trail Race

Today I ran my first ever trail race–8.2 steep, muddy miles through the forest.  The temps rose into the 80’s but luckily there was a nice breeze and enough cloud cover to keep things comfortable. All I can say is that those hills kicked my rear end!  This run was all about celebrating the beauty of our local state parks.  I enjoyed every moment of my time on the trail today, even those darn hills.  I really wished I could have taken some pictures of the gorgeous scenery, but you know, I was running and stuff.

Everyone thought it was hysterical that I was crossing the finish line with a huge smile on my face, but I was just happy to finally reach the end and not be dead last!

Don’t ask what this pose was about, I think I was a bit delirious and ready for a drink of water.  Even photo shop couldn’t make me look good after this run 😉

It wasn’t my best time, but at least I got out there and did it, right?  That’s got to count for something.  Now let’s hope I can shake these jello legs by tomorrow.  Right now I’m on the couch while the kids are running around  like crazy wondering why mama’s actually resting.    I think the laundry can wait until tomorrow, too.

Hope you all are enjoying your Saturday as well!

 

 

Best Buddies 5K

On Saturday I ran my heart and soul out for the belief that friendship is for all.

I ran and when I grew tired, I thought about Big Brother and about how hard he must work each day.  I thought about how he never gives up and always fights, no matter how hard it is. I thought about how easy a race must be in comparison to living without friendship and in comparison to living with Autism.

I ran and thought to myself what a blessing it is to have two strong legs and two healthy lungs.  I thought about how blessed I am that I can show my gratefulness each day by using my gift to help others.

I ran and watched over 1000 smiling faces running for those who couldn’t and for those who are their best buddies.

I ran for team Big Brother and all those like him.

I ran and ran hard with a smile on my face, choking back tears as I saw countless runners sporting pictures of their best buddies.

The sun was strong and the hills were high, but I finished in 35 minutes keeping a steady pace throughout.  I was proud.  But more importantly, I couldn’t wait to go home and hold one of my best buddies after the race:

It was a good day.

Run Like No One’s Watching

Once upon a time I used to look at people who ran and think that they must enjoy misery.  I truly couldn’t understand why anyone would want to run.  I personally hated to run.  Hike 13 miles up a mountain?  No problem.  Paddle for 8 hours straight?  You betcha. But run one mile….no way.

In all fairness, I always felt like I was doing something wrong when I ran.  Did I look ridiculous? Was I wearing the right shoes?  How fast and how far was I supposed to run?  Fast forward about 10 years and here I am, not only completing every 5K I can find**, but now training for a half-marathon.

Yes, you read that right. I’m training to participate in a very special half-marathon that will take place in October.  I’m no where near ready, but I’m training hard and making progress with each run.  And who cares what I look like when I run or what shoes I wear (although I did find some awesome ones, for sure).  I guess that’s what happens when you age….you start doing things for you, not for the approval of others.

Now that I’m older and a smidge wiser, I find that I really do enjoy running.  Not only is it a great challenge for me, but I truly love trail running in the woods near my house.  It’s such a great time to connect with nature, and such a release as well.

photo from Rising Above Ministries

So I decided to push myself hard and train for a half marathon–but not just any half marathon.  I will be participating and partnering with a special needs ministry.  I will cross the finish line with a special needs participant, and I cannot wait!!  Not only do I get to run for myself and see how far I can push myself, but I get to help someone else in the process.  If you live in the Tennessee area, I encourage you to check it out.  They are in need of more runners and special needs participants.  It’s an awesome reason to run!

http://www.risingaboveministries.info/haunted-half

 

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**Now that my ankle is healing nicely, I am planning on participating in the Best Buddies 5K on Saturday.  A big thank you to all who have donated.  There is still time to donate to this wonderful cause, please check out this post to learn more!!