My Half Marathon

So honestly, this 1/2 marathon was a really, really, really big deal for me. Probably one of the top 5 accomplishments in my life thus far. This is why I am spreading the word far and wide. Because I am truly, truly proud of myself.

I have always struggled athletically. I never had a lot of confidence in this area. I didn't play any sports other than ward volleyball & basketball (in which I always got the "good sportsmanship" award. And we all know that it code for "can't play worth anything, but we love you anyways."

I "pretended" to be on the track team in high school. Meaning that I worked out with them maybe twice a week, but didn't have the guts to ever compete. And the coach didn't push me because I wasn't very fast.

I'm not sure what got into me, but I woke up with a desire to start running last March. I got a group of girls to run and train with me for a 5K. It was awesome. And although I didn't do a great job, I really enjoyed the way I felt after I finished the race. And I loved having a purpose to exercise. So, I kept running and signed up for the Bisbee 1000. Again, I just felt amazing when the race was over. Then, I talked my great friend, Janae, into running a 1/2 marathon with me. I was so excited to have a partner to motivate me.

Training for this the past 3 months has been an amazing experience for me. I have gained so much confidence in myself being able to do something that I didn't think I could do. I can say, without a doubt, that I am a happier person from this experience. And a better one, too. I am more patient with my children, sweeter to my husband, and feel good about myself (inside and out). Not to mention that my clothes fit me better---always a plus.

I don't want to lose this feeling, so my next hurdle will be a mini-triathlon (16 lap swim, 12.5 mile bike ride, & 3.1 mile run) in May. 3 new months of training. And I am actually looking forward to it. Moving onward and upward, my friends! I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a way to motivate yourself & overall feel happy. Because it works.

Peace.

Finished in 2 hours, 14 minutes. The last 1-2 miles was a killer. My legs felt like lead. I wanted to sprint to the finish line more than anything. I kept telling myself, "Sprint, Kim, Sprint! You can do it!" But my legs could not go any faster. It was hilarious. I went 10 1/2 minute miles on average, which is about 1 minute faster than in my training! So I was thrilled!!

Janae and I stayed in a hotel last night in Mesa. We went out to dinner at Cracker Barrel and out to lunch today at Macaroni Grill after the race. Such a fun, fun memory!! I'll never forget it!