13.1

When I agreed to run my first half marathon it was due a bit to peer pressure and a bit to get a Valentine's weekend away.....but once I started training I really got into it. There is something really peaceful about pounding the pavement for hours with no one to take care of but yourself. I had a really motivating training partner, Emily, and we followed a reasonable (well, to us 5:30 a.m. is reasonable to get running time kid-free) training schedule including speed work. We trained for the run 3 days a week and balancing that with my Stroller Strides workouts was nice cross training.

So, the run came and we were ready! We ran the Myrtle Beach Half Marathon this past Saturday, February 16. The start was 6:30 a.m. The weather was perfect. Cool but not cold. A little windy but nothing to complain about when you are running on Ocean Blvd! We ran the exact race we trained for and had energy to power through the finish. Now, we didn't set any world records or anything but just completing 13.1 miles without walking is very impressive to me! We finished in 2:12.23!

I think I am now addicted. I loved the run. I loved the sense of accomplishment. I loved the crowds and the excitement of the race. I am so excited to get to the next big race!

Now, my poor husband was ready to set a PR but he came down with THE dreaded stomach bug on Friday - the day before the race! This was the same bug the rest of us had a week prior. Poor guy was sick the entire race and really should have been in bed. He still beat my time even sick.....but he wasn't really healthy enough to run his best. On to the next race for him.

So, if you want to set a goal you think is HUGE, do it! It is an amazing feeling to work so hard for something and see yourself succeed.

http://www.mbmarathon.com/

My Superstar

Here she is, hamming it up for the camera. And Mr. JT doing exactly what he does best.....