As many of you know, I recently completed my first half marathon! While I had a difficult last few miles it was an amazing day and a wonderful experience. I've always been active but was never quite a runner. This proved to be a new challenge for me and for my sister who is a collegiate athlete. We made a pact to run and train together and we did. This whole experience taught me the importance of preparation, dedication and inspiration. There were many days I just wanted to give up and give in but I didn't. I found inspiration from friends, faith and the beauty of nature around me. I' began training in December for the race on April 26th. In the month of March I was completely overtaken with stress, sickness and unfortunately my husbands grandmothers death. After two weeks of pain I went to the doctor (I really avoid the doctor if you can tell lol ) and was diagnosed with fifths disease and mono. Needless to say I was knocked off my feet. I couldn't walk some days let alone run. I missed almost a month of training after being on track to run 11 miles pretty easily. When I finally ran again I really debated giving up on the race because I couldn't run as fast let alone as far. Some people thought I was crazy for doing it but something inside of me said keep trying. I ran as best and I could and before the race I can say I was back up to 6 miles. I am so glad I did the race and so thankful that I took the chance to try something new. I have gained a new mental strength that I didn't know I was quite capable of having. I am working on new Goals now such as: field hockey, soccer, softball, p90x3 and crossfit. And golf! I will continue to remain active in different ways but running will alwayss be there for me when I need it. I think another Half marathon may be in my future.
Don't give up on yourselves and don't be afraid to start and start again and fall down and start again.!
