The Half

As some of you know I ran my first ever half marathon at the end of February. It was such an incredible learning experience. Not only because I traveled alone for the first time in my life, a whole trip alone. I learned so much throughout that trip.

One thing that I did was meet a lot of incredible people. I got to the race as soon as possible because that is me, early or right on-time! I met a group of 6 people from all over the US and two of them ended up starting the race with me. One of them, Lori, said at the beginning of the race...

"This is your reward!! This is for all the hard work and training that you did beforehand. Enjoy it."

I really took that to heart. The first 5 miles were tough, we had a quick pace for mile one and two. Then started to get into our groove a bit. I was learning Lori's history with running and learned about how many races she has competed in and that she used to race more competitively. I hope this race was healing for her- that no matter how her time was, that she is good enough. Racing has a stigma sometimes where runners like Lori and another friend I made, Deb, feel as though they have to push themselves so hard and their time is so important.

I like to think of my friend Suzie whenever there is a competition. She has such positive outlook on how to think of yourself (and your dog) when you are really learning and growing your skills each time you do something. It takes 10,000 hours of doing something to be a professional at it. Give yourself grace always & check out Suzie's shop for some positive dog handler and other silly stickers/apparel.

Deb is someone who I really enjoyed learning from. She got into long distance running by accident and then got so invested- as most of us distance runners do. She has troubles with her knees now but she does not let that hold her back from walking, biking and hiking. A true outdoor enthusiast. I also met Karin. Her and I had a lot in common and it made me really think about purpose and divine timing. I went on two hikes with these incredible women and learned a lot about them, but also they taught me somethings about myself or things I needed to consider within myself.

Karin has a book coming out soon! I cannot wait to help her promote her book from afar!

No matter what you do, enjoy the reward of the hard work that you are putting into it as well. Treat yourself. Remind yourself that this run is making the next run easier. What you say to yourself matters, and how you say it matters too.

You are not behind- you are learning a new skill. You are at a point in your life that is gearing you up to launch you to the next level. Be present- take time for you and always remember that you are good enough.