Gambler 2014 Race Report

 
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us," Hebrews 12:1

 

To say the weather was miserable is an understatement. Worst weather of any race. It started off raining pretty solid (I actually contemplated not leaving the jeep and driving home) and continued to rain essentially all 13.1 amazing miles. There was a slight tease for about a mile where the rain gave me a break. Only to have the skies open up and quickly turn into a torrential downpour with thunder and lightening the last 4 miles. Sweet.

I was VERY under trained for this race and knew it would be bad. I had one long run for a whopping 9 miles. The rest of my runs where anywhere from a mile to maybe 5 on a good day. Too much travel, too much work, too much fun, not enough running. Somehow I trudged through the puddles/lakes and managed to not walk and finish with an ok time all things considered.

 

Overall time was  2:24:290, so an average of  11:02 a mile. 32/39 for age group, way to close to the end of the pack for my liking. My slowest ever but I’ll take it.  I can use this time  as motivation to actually train for the next race. I did motivate myself by purchasing a cute new Lululemon running outfit. I really should buy stock in that company!

I  recovered with a beer, a long hot bath , and my first try at compression sleeves.

I can't say thank you enough to all of the volunteers who stood in the rain to hand out  water and the CB police officers  who kept us safe - you all make this race my favorite every year even in miserable weather. Your high fives, huge, and words of encouragement keep me going. Thank you!!!

That Lake House I Didn’t Get

 

How cute is this place?? And the view is amazing.

Sadly I just wasn’t quick enough as had essentially 24 hours to decide how much to offer  and couldn’t wrap my mind around the idea of downsizing and selling my home with all its memories in that time period.

I have now resorted to stalking properties on the lake either online or during my runs. Another perfect home or lot is bound to open up there eventually right? I have to hope so anyway - I have horrible luck with houses. I still dream about the gorgeous farmhouse that I also lost out on.

A Mile a Day for Jesus

"He gives power to the faint,
and to him who has no might he increases strength.
Even youths shall faint and be weary,
and young men shall fall exhausted;
but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint."

Isaiah 40:29-31

 

 

 

I’m not Catholic but decided to participate in Lent this year. Instead of giving something up I committed to doing something every single day. My friend Stephanie actually had the idea.

We each committed to running at least a mile a day. I called it my mile for Jesus.

 

Some days it truly was only a mile, other days it was as many as 10 miles. But EVERY SINGLE DAY I managed to get my mile in.

Even when in New York and Vegas (miracle I tell ya). Pretty proud of myself for actually following through 100% on  this commitment. Often days I used the time to just reflect and be thankful for everything God has given me.

 

 

This Sunday is my first half marathon of the season and I am as unprepared as I have ever been but hopeful I can at least make it to the finish line!

Happy Easter

 

I woke up to a glorious sunny day – what a blessing from God to be given such a beautiful day for Easter. Even better as originally they had forecasted storms. We attended Easter service as a family and I even got to be part of the “high five” team congratulating new believers.

 

Afterwards was a fun Easter lunch at my house prepared by my two brothers. Lots of great food, wine, and laughter.

 

We even had to test out the fun new pink garbage can I am the proud owner of.

 

And what Easter would be complete without new baby chickies?? Hope everyone had a blessed Easter.

Matthew 28:5-6

 "The angel said to the women, 'Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.'"

New York City to Cheer on the Jays

 

 

This was the first year for the Creighton BlueJays to play in the Big East Basketball tournament in New York City. I went with my parents and we were joined by my Aunt and Uncle and a few friends.

We had such a great time exploring the city.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And cheering on the Jays at the games.

 

 

 

Of course we had to enjoy the local touristy offerings while we were there.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Love going on vacation with my parents as no matter what we always have a great time. I am a lucky lady.

*Bear with me while I overload everyone with trips of multiple trips. This is what happens when you take a super long blog break :)