13.1 Car Magnet is in the mail

Well, Sunday came and went.  My first half-marathon.  I ran 13.1 miles in 2:16:29 which works out to a pace of 10:25 a mile.  Records certainly didn't fall but I am proud of my accomplishment nonetheless.  Yes, I did order a car magnet.  When it arrives I will proudly display the 13.1 oval magnet on my car.  A symbol that not everyone will recognize - but my fellow runners certainly will.  The race was great.  Nine miles came and went like nothing.  Once I hit mile ten I knew without a doubt I would finish.  I ran more of it than I did in training, only walking through the water stations - mostly because I haven't quite mastered the art of running and drinking from a Dixie cup yet.  Crossing the finish line was very emotional and very exciting.  This was my first half, but certainly not my last.  I am looking forward to completed a full next year sometime.  Sunday was my day and nothing stood in my way...not only was I physically prepared I was mentally prepared to do the distance which I think is just as important.

Butterflies are a fluttering...

Sunday, November 11, 2012 is a milestone for me.  I will be running my first half marathon.  Butterflies have officially taken my stomach hostage.  I've been training for months.  I've slowly built up my mileage like you are supposed to.  I have two training runs of 13.1 miles and one of 15 miles under my belt.  I know I can do the mileage.  That is what I keep telling myself - over and over each time those pesky little butterflies start to flutter.  My mantra for the day, thank you Shania Twain, will be "Today is your day, nothing can stand in your way."  If you haven't heard her song Today is Your Day I recommend you give it a listen.