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Tag Archives: race
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!!
