7:45 PM,Saturday, September 4, 2010
The last nine months of my life have prepared me for this moment. I woke up this morning excited about the race tomorrow: The Disneyland Half Marathon.
I spent today with my family, finishing preparations for the greatest endurance challenge of my life. The mood was light and playful. They were either very confident in my abilities or very good at keeping me relaxed.
At the beginning of my training, relaxing and being confident weren’t easy; I was full of self doubt and couldn’t imagine how I was going to run 13.1 miles. Completing 2 and 3 mile runs left me exhausted and relying on a “cat nap” to make it through the work day!
When I think back on the days I spent suffering with shin splits and soreness, all the while hoping my body would grow stronger and adjust to my new expectations for myself, I become more grateful for this moment.
My fondest training memory is the day I realized that I could complete a half marathon.
It was a Sunday during my 8th week of training and I was scheduled to do an 8 mile run. I was dreading this run. With a little nudge from Michael, I laced up my running shoes, mapped out a route and was on my way.
To my surprise, a little after the 4 mile mark I was greeted by my own personal cheer squad! Michael and the girls brought me water and some much needed encouragement.
When I arrived home about 45 minutes later, Michael presented me with a small cake to celebrate the completion of my longest run. The love and support I felt in that moment was immeasurable.
That night I was not exhausted or sore. I no longer doubted that I could run 13.1 miles; I just knew I would be able to do it.
Today, I know that I made it to this moment only through the grace of GOD. Only HE could loose me from nearly a decade of laziness. I had forgotten that my body is a temple and should be treated as such.
With my health greatly improved (lower weight, cholesterol, and pant size), I thank GOD for giving me a “new attitude” and for surrounding me with supportive people.
So as I sit here a little nervous, very excited, and extremely loved, I just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who supported me along the way. I know I wouldn’t be ready to run this race without your encouragement.
With Love,
Nicole
