26.2 reasons why I run...

This morning is the eve of the Philadelphia Marathon, which will be my fourth marathon. I never set out to be a runner but somehow running found me. It is amazing how something could be so inspiring, motivating, unconditional, exhausting, invigorating, and challenging all at the same time. Running gives me the freedom to move, to go distances I never thought possible, to dream big, reach for goals and to never quit trying. Running clears my head of the clutter and is where I do my best brainstorming. Some days running is my best friend; always there for me, ready to push me to be better, not just at running but in life, work, with family, and friends.

There are more than 26.2 reasons why I run and tomorrow as sister and I (Team True Event) run through the streets of Philadelphia a week before Thanksgiving I will be thinking about all of the reasons I am so thankful that running came into my life. Even when the wall hits at mile 20, that is what usually gets me through, the high/joys of being able to run.
**For those of you interested tracking us follow trueevent on twitter as we pass various mileposts.

Marathon Training in Full Swing

I am a huge runner! I love the way it feels to be on the open road, just me, my thoughts, and my ipod. I always loved it because it was the one time during the day that I could just be. I could push myself as hard as I possibly could, drag my feet along on tired days, or just run without a thought about my pace. I never really enjoyed running until I started to train for my first marathon a couple of years ago. Inspired by sister and her love of running I discovered that I don't know how I ever lived without it. Husband thinks I am a bit obsessed with my routine and schedule to train for marathons but for me it is a hobby, a stress reliever, and a good friend. Sister and I are training for the OBX marathon this November and are following Hal Higdon's schedule (he says if you stick with Hal you will finish, and that is 100% true) His programs are designed to get you to finish. We are on week 5 of an 18 week program.

In the spirit of the marathon and the training I came across these fabulous note cards by Far Gone Greetings, that I thought I would share. They made me laugh!

inside the card "Congratulations on another milestone"
inside the card "You? Injured? Nah!"
inside the card "Marathoner on the rocks?
How about a martini on the rocks?
Come on, let's celebrate!"