The little moments and the big moments in my life:
living in joy, running my heart out & following my dreams.

Sunday, April 15, 2012

Couch to 5K to Half Marathon

Yesterday, I ran my first Half Marathon!  13.1 miles!

I started this running journey about 20 months ago.   After 6 years of being pregnant or nursing a baby I realized that it was time to do something for myself.  I had tried to run before, but I became easily frustrated with lack of endurance.  This time I decided to follow the Couch to 5K program.  I had instant success, because the plan started off easy and allowed me to accomplish small goals and run a little longer each week.  I ran my 1st 5K in November 2010 - The Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot.  From the moment I crossed the finish line and felt that sense of accomplishment . . . that feeling of reaching my goal after so much hard work - I WAS HOOKED!

I have learned SO MUCH about myself throughout this journey.  I have seen just how amazing and strong my body can be.  I have learned to push my limits, set lofty goals for myself, and to keep on going - no matter how tired or sore I am.  I have also found a community of runners that support me, encourage me, push me and lift me up.  They are some of the most amazing people I have ever known!!! (You know who you are & I LOVE YOU GIRLS!!)   I have participated in about 10 races, mostly 5K's, one adventure race (Warrior Dash), one 10K and ONE HALF MARATHON! 

Some of my race souveniers - bibs & medals.

Father's Day Run June 2011

DO LIFE Run   July 2011
http://bendoeslife.tumblr.com/

Warrior Dash  July 2011 (with my bro Adam)


Endurance 10K  Aug 2011

Turkey Trot Nov 2011


St Patty's Day Run  March 2012
with Angie, Steph & Elizabeth
Rock the Parkway Half Marathon was an amazing & beautiful course.  We started at Burns & McDonnell near Ward Parkway & Bannister Rd.  The course took us up Ward Parkway, past Meyer Circle, through some residential areas south of the plaza, around Loose Park and back down Ward Parkway. 



 I wasn't fast.  I got passed by old people (like 75 years old, no joke), a pregnant woman and even people who appeared to be utterly out of shape.  BUT I kept going.  I pushed myself harder than I have ever pushed & eventually I crossed the finish line!  I did it.  I ran 13.1 miles. 




My girls Elizabeth & Angie and our awesome medals. 

Matt & I after 13.1 miles. 


No comments:

Post a Comment