Getting Inspired

For as long as I can remember my family has been active and has competed in endurance races. In fact, I can remember running a 5K before I was even a teenager. Both my mother and father have completed multiple marathons in multiple countries. My dad also completed his 9 IronMan this year. Because of this, Josh always says it in my blood to be a runner. Although, somehow in my early and mid twenties, I got lazy. In the previous 4 years prior to getting motivated with my running again, I can only remember running twice.

What sparked my interest? A couple months ago, three colleagues of mine pressured me into joining their gang. Okay, so they aren't really a gang, more like a group of individuals with a passion to run and the crazy staying power to do so for many, many miles. Right around the same time, all three of them had registered and committed to a half marathon. I had already been running short distances again for a couple of months and saw the opportunity to challenge myself just as they did. So I jumped aboard the crazy train and registered myself. I gave myself about 6 months to prepare and had to convince my mom to do the first one with me, but it is penciled in on the calendar. Since August I've taken this commitment serious and have started preparing myself for this new chapter of my life.

What's keeping me inspired? My family have been big supporters and great cheerleaders thus far. My mom and I have been sharing our weekly running routines with each other, both keeping us motivated for the January race (and then my February race) and keeping the spirit of family (friendly...bahhaha) competition alive. My dad has become my coach, giving me tips and advice on how to improve, stay focused, and still have fun. Josh has been great and is even joining me in some of my runs now. Then their is the NSCS gang. Their support coupled with their enthusiasm and willingness to share their experiences through twitter and blogging have kept me consistent and serious with training. When it comes to actually putting in the miles, space coast runner crew is where its at. Who knew in such a small town, there were so many dedicated runners and bikers. This group of people have been amazing and running with them is great. Running with the group gives me a good perspective to see that training is paying off, yet I am not at the level I could be at. Through these last couple months, I've quickly realized that it is easier doing anything with the power of numbers and friends backing you.