Closing in on 1000 miles!

Nearly there! 942 as of today!

Enjoying every moment..

Today I am at 702 miles for the year.  I woke up at 4:11 a.m. this morning, and met up with Kim at 5 a.m. to walk 2 miles.  I look forward to my morning walks and runs, either alone or with friends.  It is a wonderful way to clear my mind, catch up with a friend, and appreciate the beautiful world around us.  This morning I couldn't stop looking up at the stars.

Looking back, looking ahead

It's hard to believe that 4 years ago this week I started training with Team in Training for my very first Half Marathon (Disney Half in Jan 2010.) Prior to this, I was a casual walker.  Did not stick to it much.  Now four years later, I have completed 6 half marathons, many 5K's, gone through 4 pairs of running shoes.

I have enjoyed every moment of it.  It is such a joy to train, push myself, and fellowship with other runners and walkers.

Now I look forward to my next race - the Women's Running Series in St Pete's.  This is my 3rd time to participate in this race.  But this year, I am thrilled to doing it with several of my close friends - Vickie, Vicki, Karen, Kim, and Jessica.  We have been training together for several months.

It's August 3 and I have completed 524 miles so far this year.  Yes, I am behind for my 1000 mile goal for this year, but looking back, I am thrilled that I have stuck with it for 4 years straight.

I thank God for His grace, strength, and mercy.  Philippians 4:13

I am already dreaming about turning 40 next year and celebrating with another Half.

I am up to 518 miles this year so far.  Yes, I am behind as far as where I should be this time of year.  However, I know as we draw closer to the Half in November, I will be racking up the miles on Saturday long runs/walks.

199 days to go

It's warm here in Florida.  I had a rough week last week, not feeling well at all.  So I took the week off from running.  This week I am back at it.

Best 5k in some of the worst conditions!

I ran the Maya Matters Helping Kids Kick Cancer 5K over the weekend.  It started out cloudy, but by half way through it started raining, thundering, and even some lightening.  I was soaked.  But I pushed through.  Seeing the families out there running and walking to raise funds for relief for families with children with cancer was inspiring.

I finished in 35:52, my best 5K race time so far.  I was thrilled!

Just run.

You know that old saying, "never say never?" Well, not too long ago, I would often tell others that I could "never" run, or that I never ran.  Fast forward three years, and I have been running intervals for over a year and a half.  Now I am running more than ever before.

Small steps, trying to run a mile without walking - check.  Run 2 miles with minimal walking - check.

I am learning that while I have said "never" in the past, I am not letting my former thoughts about myself slow me down.  Just run Julie!

Sunshine State Half

Whew! The race started out great! Started feeling it my calves in mile 6 or so.  But mile 9 my tummy was a bit upset.  I had to use the restroom so I told Jill to keep going.  I got sick in the porta potty, always a joy.

My final time was 2h49m.  So far my best time! I am pleased.  163 miles so far this year!

High Hopes for the Half!

It's Half Marathon Eve!! I am all packed and ready to go.  This is my first time to participate in the Sunshine State Races in WPB and their 2nd year in existence.  I am really looking forward to running with my sis in law Jill.  She and I have been training together since October.  

This will be really my first race in which I feel very confident that I can complete the race using intervals.  Prior to this race, I would often allow myself more walk breaks.  Since Jill and I have been training, long runs together on Saturdays, we have not allowed ourselves much leeway when it comes to skipping intervals.

I am so hopeful that this will be my best time ever.  Dare I say it?? PR!!!

This is Jill's first half, and I know she will do great! We are looking forward to enjoying the views on the course and the warmer morning temperatures.  

Wanted to update my 2013 mileage so far too: As of today, I am at 147 miles completed.  I am on track! YAY!

Thank you for all your encouragement!

On track

In order to reach my goal this year of 1000 miles, I need to maintain approximately 83.3 miles a month.  As of today, I have completed 81 miles in January.  Feels great to know I have 6 days to complete the last few miles, knowing I will have excess!

Really excited that a few friends are taking the plunge and have begun training to do the Women's Half Marathon with me in November.  It is awesome to see friends set goals and work hard to reach them!

734.43!

My mileage for 2012: 734.43!! YAY, I surpassed my mileage for 2011, and that was my goal.  2013? Well, my sights are set on 1000 miles.  I can do it!

Best month: December=102.66 miles
Worst month: July=43.47 miles

This is just one of many goals that I have.  What are your goals?