Monday morning my husband didn’t have to go to work-federal holiday, so I decided that what would really be great would be to run together. My husband has been running at work so it’s something we’ve both been working on. I finally “convinced” him it would be fun (smiley face) and we went, with our two year old in tow. As I was running I realized something about my personal journey…..running has really helped me be more happy and confident, which in turn has made me more pleasant and focused, which in turn has affected my marriage in a good way.
Last year, about this time, I was probably worried about something insignificant, may have been complaining about it, and probably felt worn out and beat up. That takes its toll on any relationship. Looking back I can see how my marriage has suffered because of a grumpy, pessimistic attitude. I had gotten stuck in a rut and depended on someone else to make me happy.
Running has helped me fill my own bucket. It’s a term my daughter brought home her kindergarten year, filling buckets. In school they focused on how they filled each others buckets, but I have realized that we need to be in charge of our own buckets. Yes, relationships and human interaction are central to our existence, and we need to work on them, BUT, we are ultimately in charge of who we are, how we feel, and what we do. There is a tendency to “dump” blame on others and the phrase “personal responsibility” seems to be going out of style- and with it the empowerment that comes from knowing that you are in charge of what happens in your life. If you don’t like something, if something has made you sad-FIX IT-because you CAN.
My husband and I enjoyed our run together, we ran a 5 mile loop. I talked about all sorts of silly things and he listened patiently (probably wondering if I ever stop talking lol ), we enjoyed the cold breeze and the bright sun, and our little blond two year old with her hair blowing all around her head like a halo. When we finished we decided to weed and mulch the front yard. We spent the whole day working together and enjoying it. And it all happened because we took that first step.
So if you’re waiting for a change in life-don’t wait, take that first step. Get out the door, challenge yourself. You can’t change life if you don’t change what you do. This is me loving life, trying hard to change from depressed, overwhelmed and tired to strong, happy and free.
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I loved running the half marathon this year!! The course was diverse, well laid out, and clearly marked. All the volunteers were cheerful and helpful. I loved the food at the end, the music and the great energy and enthusiasm of all those involved. It was very evident that great care and thought went into every detail of this fantastic race. A big thank you to everyone who put so much time and effort into making this race a great experience!! Each succeeding year of this race gets better and better--I look forward to next year!
I had a blast. The course was well laid out and the stations were a great sight to see. The finish line was set up wonderfully. The after food, music, stretch tables and crowd were very welcoming. Thank you for everything. I really can't wait till next year.
My first Marathon! This was a great experience, extremely well marked course not only that but someone at every turn cheering you on was great, big thanks to them! Aid stations lots of them, after mile 20 my belt was empty and I was almost running on empty, they relly helped me finsh, they had everything I was even able to get a gel packet. I will run it again, and would recommend it to anyone. Thank you!
I do travel out-of-state for races from time to time and when I heard about this one, I had to participate. From the amazing/scenic course to the incredible volunteers, friendly participants & spectacular weather, I'd have to give kudos for a job well done. You guys just keep rocking it like you are and it won't forsake you. I hope to be back next year!
This was my first race ever and it could not have been any better! The energy on the course was amazing, everyone cheering each other on was inspiring. Having a pacer helped me complete my half marathon in my goal time! The whole event was well planned and a fun day all around, can't wait to do it again!!
The race was awesome. A really beautiful course. So many kind volunteers cheering us on along the way. Lots of free yummy food at the end. Also live music, physical therapists to help you stretch afterward. The t-shirts were great. My friends from Georgia and I are planning to make this our memorial day tradition!
Great event! I just ran the half today! The race seemed well organized and the course is fast and flat as described and runs through lovely neighborhoods and parks, nicely shaded, lots of beautiful trees and greenery, etc. Loved the venue for the start and finish. Loved the free hot dog or burrito option at the end for participants and BTW the "dawg's" were great and the fellow that owns and runs the hot dog stand was really cool!! He even took the time to snap a few pics of my friend and I for us. Enjoyed the live music while we were eating and waiting for award announcements. I would definitely run this race again and since I won a free race entry (division award) I plan to do just that next year!
This was a very well organized marathon, especially for an inaugural one! Beautiful and fast course. I got a new PR! Great support along the course, especially in the last hard miles. The race director even ran with me for a little bit. :-) I would definitely recommend it. It was small being it's first year but I expect to see it grow a lot in the coming years.
