I OWN THIS

In 2014, I ran my first marathon in 3 hours and 40
minutes. Eight years later, I ran my fourth  marathon in 3 hours and 13 minutes. This proves that Anything is POSSIBLE. Even though, I’m happy with these results, I still KNOW that I’m capable of so much more. In five years, I’ll look back and be proud that I never gave up. Consistency was important but now focusing on the goals and putting in the work to get there is more important. It’s been over a month since the Leavenworth Marathon and I’m excited to move FORWARD with resilience and perseverance. 

Live a Great Story

Everyone has a story to tell. That’s what my mother in law would say. During my long run yesterday, I thought about my story and what my purpose in life is. Raising four responsible, hardworking, successful, genuinely, kind-hearted people who continue to follow their faith (with my husband) is what first came to mind. Some days are definitely easier than others but we seem to get by, every day. As I continued to run, I reminded myself that “I can do hard things.” That’s when I realized that running hill repeats and miles after miles isn’t so hard. Raising four kids in this world is pretty darn challenging and the hardest job I’ve ever experienced.

Upgrading my GOALS

I feel like somedays are definitely easier than others. Trying to balance work, parenting and marriage can be a challenge. After a great day, I’m feeling like I won the lottery and after a bad day, I feel like I just experienced the worst day of my life. Sometimes I have to remind myself that even on a bad day, there’s always something to be grateful for. 

As I look back on some of the positive memories made from 2021, my priorities and goals continue to change. 

1. Worry less, laugh more

2. Clean less, sit more

3. Talk less, listen more

4. Don’t give up: when life gets tough, keep going

5. Show up everyday with a positive attitude

6. Believe that anything is possible 

7. Do something everyday that scares you and get out of your comfort zone

8. Focus on staying healthy: mentally and physically

9. Rest and recover

10. Always focus on what went well at the end of the day

Life is going by so fast as I watch my kids continue to grow. Rather than focusing on what’s ahead of me, I’m making some every day changes. Mom, wife, teaching and running goals will only come as I continue to stay positive, be happy and appreciate life. The best days happen when WE least expect them. So, living in the moment is my goal.

Running is My Therapy

In the past, I spent the winter months running on my treadmill. This year, I have dedicated myself to running in all weather conditions. As difficult as this has been, I’ve learned to enjoy running in the dark, cold weather. I’ve also learned that running isn’t always about setting fast goals and personal records but that it’s my therapy. 

My daily runs have become my quiet time. When I try to only allow positive thoughts in my head or not think at all. During this crazy time that we live in, I’m feeling very grateful for my new running habit. Regardless of the uncomfortable weather, my therapy morning sessions are something that I look forward to.