I'm Not Training Alone...Not by a Long Shot

Fun Fact:  I don't plan things well, like parties and get-togethers.  I'm notorious for my last minute nature, but those who know and love me have come to expect it, anticipate my last minute invites, and smile all the while.  

Mucisian BJ Knights

Very early in January, my marathon team got an email from Adam, one of our teammates and a marketing guy for the foundation, and in it he shared some ideas for fundraising.  One of his ideas was to hold a fundraising night of some kind with raffles, etc.  So I, with no experience whatsoever and a track record for poor planning, decided that was definitely for me.  That's kind of what I do, though, especially lately.  I aim high, and then I bust my butt to reach my goal.  Though I certainly didn't pull it off on my own, I am so happy to say that my fundraising night was a success on so many levels.  We had great music, because I am lucky enough to know musicians who offered play for free that night.  We had a ton of raffle and silent auction items, and our venue, Perfect Game, put out a delicious spread for my guests.

I tend to be shy, at times, but I did get awfully comfortable at the microphone, and that was probably my favorite part of the night.  I felt so honored to represent The Greg Hill Foundation and share with the crowd what they do for local families and how I got involved.  It was also an opportunity to thank some people who are important parts of my marathon journey.  Luv You, LLC., my

sponsor, has been on board since I found out I was on the team, and they have been instrumental in providing me support, training gear, and the very best nutrition for my training.  This experience would not be what is it without them; Eager sponsors to start, supportive friends throughout.

My husband, Mat, on the left.

And my husband.  I need to figure out a way to make this up to him somehow.  My teammate, Erin, said something early on about training taking over your life, and at first, when our mileage was still manageable, I didn't really get it .  As the miles have climbed, however, I began to understand what she was talking about.  I can safely say that without Mat's support at home, I would have either had to quit, or our household would be falling apart at the seams.  I'm not even exaggerating.  Running a marathon is a huge time commitment, not only for the runner, but for their loved ones as well.  My kids have come to expect that my Saturdays are running and then sleeping...a lot.  My husband does way more that his fair share.  I wish I could take them across the finish line with me.  They'll certainly be in my heart as I reach a goal I never thought possible.

Training?  Going great!  The day after my fundraiser, I ran a 30K (18.75 mile) race, and averaged under ten minutes a mile.  I'm not really going for a certain time, but I was really excited to see how I perform in a race situation over that distance.  I have some sore knees, but other than that, holding up pretty well.  Next weekend we run 19 miles, and I honestly feel like I'm ready.

This week's chance to win a prize from my sponsor, Luv You, LLC. :

One thing I've learned so far is how much benefit comes from extended outside of my comfort zone.  It has made all the difference.   Use the contact form on the right and tell me one thing you've done that has been outside of your comfort zone, or maybe something you'd like to try.  Every person who reaches out adds such motivation to my training!  One person will be randomly selected for a great prize!