Do It! Register for a 1/2 Marathon!

I never thought I would ever be able to complete a 5K. I never thought I would be able to complete a 10K. Hey let's face it, I never thought I would be able to complete a mile run/walk. BUT I DID! I did those and so much more. I complete not one, but TWO half marathons!! Yes, they were a year apart, but I still did it!

My sister was very instrumental in getting me to commit to my first 1/2 Marathon. She encouraged me and coached me. She helped me see that if I believed in myself, I could do anything. I have taken this lesson with me through MANY things these past two years. When I felt deflated and like I would not be able to make it, I remembered what I felt like at mile 8...and I powered through!

So, how did I decide to do this...twice? Well, here are my reasons:
1) It is the BEST feeling to cross that finish line
2) It encourages me to workout
3) It helps keep me on track...sometimes
4) It gives my sister and I an exclusive club and interest
5) BRAGGING rights!!

Many of you might be saying...I can't run, or I don't run. Well, neither do I.  I walk/jog. Yup. It took me 3:27.58 to complete my first race and 3:21.33. Hey, year 2 was a little faster =) The fact is I DID IT and I FINISHED! I am not a rock star like some and finish in 1:59 (my sister) or 2:21 (my cousin) but I finished all the same!

So, if you are interested in doing something like this, DO IT! Active is a great web site with great training tips, and listings for local events. REGISTER for one, and just do it!

REMINDER: Some times the registration fee can be a deterrent, don't let it be!  You usually gets tons of great items (shirts, bags, food, etc.) AND most are affiliated with charities and if you raise a certain amount, you might be able to get your race fee refunded...I did! =)

Here are some great events:
Aflac Iron Girl Series- events all over the country

Surf City- links up to the California Dreaming Series

Disneyland 1/2 Marathon and other events- also has family events

Warrior Dash- 3 mile mud run  & activities

GOOD LUCK! Let me know of your adventures!

*hugs*
Denice
Photo Credit: Me, my Mom and my FIL

1/2 Marathon #2 COMPLETED!

Yup- WE, yes all three of us, and a few others, completed our second 1/2 Marathon! I am crazy, I know.  Why would someone do that you say? Well, It is such a gratifying experience.  The sense of accomplishment is AMAZING.  I literally start crying at mile 13 and don't stop till after I cross the finish line and collect all my goodies (bananas, water, apple...you know, stuff to put in my body so I don't pass out!). 
Now, I am not crying because of pain, I am crying because I made it.  Me, Denice, a 34 year old, over weight mom of 2...I DID IT! That's why I am crying.

 (The Crew Before the Race)

 (That's me between the arrows)

I AM:

• Amazed that I trained for this
• Amazed that I had the mental power to keep going  after mile 8
• Amazed that I have completed something many people never dream of doing
• Amazed that I did not pass out (or barf)
• Amazed that I did not injure myself
• Amazed that I have the strength to carry myself 13.1 miles

(my Sister and I)

Yup...I did it! You can too!

(After completing 13.1 MILES)

*hugs*
Denice
Photo Credit: Me!