5Ks and Follow Me

If you happen to be one of the people who read my blog and can't wait to see what I've written about this time, I'm sorry I have made you wait so long. ;)  Thank you for being patient with me.  Everyone else, thanks for stopping by to check it out.

You see, this post isn't really going to be about running...I have been looking much deeper into my heart since my last post.  After BSIM, I took a break from running because my knee had been doing that weird catching thing, yet didn't seem to get better if I ran, so I took some time off.  "Gasp!" you say.  I know.  Buuuttt, you know what, it has worked.  I have ran 2 5ks in the past 6 weeks during my time "off".  No, I haven't set any PRs.  Not even close, actually, but I have ran without my knee catching.  With that being said, I still have a really tight left hip flexor and right hamstring.  Of course I'm stretching!  Who do you think I am?  Jillian Michaels?  (You'll get this if you've ever made it to the cool-down portion of her videos.  Girl has zero flexibility but I still love her workouts.) 

The first 5k I ran was the Girls on the Run Color Run with the group I had coached all semester from the school where I teach.  I buddied up with one of the girls without a parent to run.  Lily was relentless.  She told me before we started the race, "My mom said I have to run the whole thing" with worry in her eyes.  I looked into that little girl's face and I told her that we would do just that.  She didn't believe that she could but I talked about pacing.  She still wasn't sure she could do it...but I knew that she could.  And you know what?  We ran that whole 3.1 miles.  At times, I felt like she was pulling me because I'd like to think I was still recovering from the marathon.  We finished around the 34 minute mark.  GOTR races don't keep times so I don't know the exact...but, really, who cares?  Not I, not Lily (who is a 3rd grader, might I add), and not Lilly's parents who proudly watched and cheered her on from the sidelines.  Not only did Lilly run a 5k that day, but she also conquered those voices that tell girls that they aren't "good enough", "pretty enough", or "cool enough".  That's what Girls on the Run is about.  Plugging into the positive cord.  If you want to find out more about the program go to www.stronggirlsrun.com.  Molly Barker has an amazing vision.

My buddy and I getting "color splashed"!

The second 5K I ran was on Father's Day and aptly titled You Da Man 5K.  If you know me, you know I'm not a huge fan of 5Ks.  I'm just not speedy and when I expect to break a PR every time I run one, I will be sorely disappointed.  But this wasn't just any ol' 5K.  No, this one benefitted Prostate Cancer Awareness.  How often do those come around?  We hear about Susan G. Komen, and other, races for Breast Cancer all the time.  Isn't it about time we start showing the men in our lives we support them too, and want them to stay healthy and aware?  Well, someone did...and I'm glad.  This disease is a "cancer" that has affected my family in more ways that one.  Not only did we lose my papaw too early, but my dad was also diagnosed 2 years ago...but don't give him any pity.  He doesn't want it or need it.  He is a strong man and is doing well because he was proactive.  (Please, make the men in your life get regular check-ups!! It might just save their lives!)  My dad, mom, sister, and 7 year-old nephew ran this race with me.  It was first for my mom, sister, and nephew, but the second for my dad.  He had ran a 5K with me 2 years ago for my birthday.  I was so proud to see my whole immediate family cross that finish line that day!  Praise Jesus!  It was just so overwhelming and emotional for me.  I am especially proud of my mom.  She, like Lilly, didn't think that she could do it...but she did!  The whole thought of that day puts a smile on my face.

After the finish!

Thank you all for entertaining my thoughts on running.  Now we go to the book.  I have been reading Follow Me by David Platt. 

In it, he is just explaining to us, in layman's terms what God wants from each of us.  It's simple, all he asks is Follow Me.  Drop what you are doing, and Follow Me...it is a call to die to ourselves and live for Jesus.  I'm intentionally processing right now and trying to figure out what that looks like for me.  I'm in a pretty cool position that I can go anywhere and do anything that God wants me to do so I'm excited to see where he leads me.  Have you read this book?  What is it looking like for you in your lives?  Any radical changes?  I'm curious. 

More on this later...

Big Sur Int'l Marathon: The Beauty and the Beast

Anytime I think of this gorgeous place, I get tears in my eyes. Words and pictures truly cannot express its majesty. It is a place of breathtaking views that one must truly appreciate and just be in its presence.  (I know I'm cheesy!)

At the start of the race, the race director of Boston spoke, we had a moment of silence for the victims for that horrendous act, and sang the national anthem. I saw many runners with tears in their eyes, as this hits home for us as marathoners.  Therefore, the first 5 miles of the race were solemn like a quiet summer morning, full of dew, birds singing, leaves rustling, and a coolness still hanging in the air.  There was a calmness in the midst of all of the nerves and adrenaline that is the beginning of a marathon.

As we emerged from that forest we turned around and saw this:

It is no secret that I did not PR this race.  In fact I was 30 minutes slower than my first marathon....but it's all good.  I enjoyed it.  I took stopped and took pictures.  I ate "the world's best strawberries."  I took even pictures of fellow runners. 

I met one beautiful runner who ran alongside me for the hardest miles of this run.  She was with me all the way up Hurricane Point after she stopped to take a picture for me and I took one of her...

You can't make this stuff up.

She blessed me with her presence, her encouragement, and her enjoyment of the course.  We crossed Bixby Bridge together and took our pictures with the grand piano player.  Soon after that, I felt my knee beginning to snap, crackle, and pop (or whatever it was doing).  I told sweet Julie to go on.  I didn't want to hold her up in her race. 

Before we began the trek up Hurricane Point we were serenaded by the Taiko drummers.  I was lucid enough at that point to take a video.  I wish I had taken a longer one but I was still trying to run at this point ;)

 

As you can imagine, Hurricane Point gets it name for a reason.  We had been keeping up with the weather for race day because Big Sur is known for it's unpredictability.  The forecast had mild winds at our backs...the forecast was wrong.  Going up that 560 foot climb... 

If you look closely you can see the runners climbing that mountain.

I kept thinking this is not what was predicted.  It's not hard enough that we are going up at a 5% grade for 2 miles but we also have strong winds to face.  At times, it was hard to breathe.  The air just felt thick.  You can see the fog in my pictures.  I think one of the greatest feelings in that race was when we topped it and runners were yelling and whooping!  There was a huge sign that said "You survived Hurricane Point!"  It was an amazing feeling with the wind still whipping furiously around us and volunteers handing out water and Gatorade cheering us on.  Then...we got a downhill!  Woohoo!  Well deserved but just as hard on the legs.  As we were racing downhill we could just hear the song of the grand piano.  It was beautiful.  As we rounded a corner and saw the bridge I was so happy. 





On our way downhill, hearing the piano.

View from the bridge

Looking back at where we had just ran.









I took 40 some pictures throughout the race and they are all just as amazing as the next.  The volunteers and the other runners were so helpful and friendly.  I did not feel like I was racing all of these people.  I felt like we were all friends out sightseeing.  We just happened to be running 26.2 miles in the process. 

 

As we neared the finish line, we were running by the beaches of Carmel, CA.  I knew we were near when I could hear the announcer calling out the names of people finishing.  As I ran up, the song "Beautiful Day" by U2 was playing.  How fitting!  Throughout this marathon, I went from hot, sunny weather to cold, damp, windy, then, back to hot and sunny by the end.  You know what?  I loved every single minute of it!  I can honestly say that I ran most of these miles with a smile on my face and tears in my eyes.  I feel so lucky to be able to do this. 

 

This is most definitely a race I would do again.  I would not ever expect a PR on this course.  I would go solely for the soul-cleansing experience. 

 

 

 

This was just the marathon to make you stop and smell the roses.  Don't let life pass you by.  Live it to the fullest each and every day.  Don't take things for granted.  Enjoy. 

 

<3 Niki

 

My sweet friends and I after we got our race medals :)

 

 



The most funnest run ever!

Yesterday, I had the most fun running I can remember in a long time...you see, I got the opportunity to run with my 19 first graders.  It was Explorer Expedition "Walk-A-Thon", our school's fundraiser.  Only my kiddos aren't walkers...they are RUNNERS.  I have one of the most energetic classes in our school.  Usually I get upset with them when they run (inside the school), but yesterday, I could let them run and see their faces light up while doing it.  And, to make it better, I got to run with them!  How awesome that I could share my love of running with them?! 

We ran as fast as we could without abandon and with huge smiles on our faces, laughing the whole time and screaming and wooing.  Some of them wanted to race me. We would sprint in the straightaways.  I loved seeing the surprise on their little faces when they realized that I would actually race them. It makes my heart smile. No one was worried about time, distance, or pace.  We were just running.  It was amazing to see running from a child's point of view. 

Too often we forget to have fun with the run.  We all want a better time, a longer distance, or to beat a foe, which are all great goals to have, but we mustn't forget to enjoy it.  Don't let your goals consume you.  They will come with experience and training.  I am guilty of letting myself become so caught up in wanting to get faster that I get frustrasted with my runs, with myself, and with my body.  I try to rush into things and get hurt, whether it be physically or emotionally.

What about you?  How do you make sure you enjoy your runs?

They can't all be good runs

No matter how my run went, I am thankful for these legs that allow me to run many miles.

Today was supposed to be a 20 mile run.  Here is what really happened...

At mile 2, I was having a hard time breathing because it was hot.  We have had an unseasonably long winter here in East Tennessee and my body has not acclimated to the 70s yet.

At mile 7, I sat down on the sidewalk to perform myofacial release on my own knee...oh yeah, and move the muscle back where it goes.  It kept slipping over. 

At mile 10, I wanted to quit.  I was miserable.  Going slower than I ever have. 

At mile 13, I went on search of Body Glide, Vaseline, anything for my arm chafing.  Apparently, CrossFit has beasted my biceps so they kept rubbing.  (hehe) Of course, everthing was closed but I ran into a dear friend who supplied that Vaseline for me :)  Thank you!

At mile 15.5 , I quit.  I was feeling awful and in pain.  I mean, really hurting. I talked to my fellow Big Sur runner,  who had just ran 24 miles (while shopping for Tart Cherry Juice for the pain) and she told me to go back out there and finish it...so I did, on the verge of tears, partly because I was disappointed in myself for not finishing and going "so slow", and partly because I was dreading making my legs move one more step, let alone 4.5 more miles, I drove to another park close by because I needed a change of scenery to finish.   

At mile 0-0.6, I ran around the little island dodging every breed of dog possible. 

At mile 0.8, I decided to run out of the park onto the road...so I didn't have to dodge dogs and worry about them biting me.  I ran by the boat ramps and up this gigantic hill and back down.

At mile 3, I quit.  Again.  I knew that I was going to hurt myself it I went any further so I quit.  I really want to be able to run in 3 weeks when I have Big Sur to tackle. 

Some days, you just have to know when enough is enough.  I was having a bad day.  It was hurting my body.  It was hurting my confidence.  So I packed it up and headed home.  And I'm ok with that.  The end.

Have you ever had to cut a run short?  Why?

Why Do I Run?

Many people ask, "Why do you run?" or "Why do you run so far?"  This is a question I have difficulty answering and/or defending in mere words.  When I hit mile 19 of my 20 miler Saturday "free fallin'" by Tom Petty came on Pandora and as I was singing the chorus out loud, (yes, I said out loud) I wanted everyone to know that experience.  I knew that I was going to finish that 20 miler and it was a good feeling. 

I run for me.

I run because it helps me let go. 

I run to forget the day.  I, like many people, have a stressful job.  It is one that I often take home with me...maybe not physically, but mentally, I can't leave and just forget about the situations of those kiddos and the great responsibility I have been handed in leading them.

I run for a sense of accomplishment.  Yep, I said it.  I make myself proud.

I run to reflect.  I reflect on my life.  On choices I've made.  On unanswered prayers.  I take time to thank God for not granting me those things that I once wanted so badly and instead giving me more than I could have ever created on my own.

I run because at the end of a long or hard workout I feel strong.  In life, running makes me feel stronger than I ever imagined I could be. 

I run to see just how far and how fast I can go.  Every time I go farther and faster than I ever have, I surprise myself.  I feel blessed.  Blessed to have such an able body.  Blessed to be able to run.  I am certainly not the fastest of runners, but I am thankful for what I have been given...because it is enough.

I run because it teaches me to just keep going, especially when it hurts. 

I run because there is nothing more soul-cleansing than a summer run in the rain.
My favorite kind of run.

I hope that this compilation can put into words the feeling of my run. 

Tell me, why do you run?



Please enjoy Tom Petty, my friends, and run happy!



Handana: my first ever product review and giveaway!!

Woohoo!! Just Keep Going is growing!  Not only have I aquired over 100 more followers on facebook but I have been privileged enough to do my first product review and giveaway. 

I first saw the Handana on an awesome female runner's instagram.  I thought it was the coolest thing I have ever seen.  She said it makes her feel "like a warrior" whenever she wears it.  What runner doesn't want to feel like a warrior when she runs?  I know I do! 

I wore my Handana today on my speed work session on the treadmill.  I almost always do my intervals on the mill.  It makes me move faster than I would on my own.  I also sweat A LOT on the treadmill.  I don't know if it's the actual treadmill that does it or the fact that I'm inside in a gym. 


Before - Don't I look strong?

I ran 1.5 mile warm-up, 6x800s, 400 recovery between each, and 1.25 mile cool-down for a total of 7 miles.  I like that it isn't a one-size-fits-all because it doesn't.  I got an XS which is a good fit for me.  I am 5 feet tall, around 105, if that gives you any idea of how to choose your size. 

I actually forgot I was wearing the Handana at one point until I had to wipe the sweat off of my face, then I remembered it!  The fabric is so soft.  Nothing like the towels you can get to use at the gym that can pretty much chap your face.  Salty sweat and rough fabric do not go well together.  Not only is it soft, it just keeps on soaking up the sweat.  Time after time, the sweat would come dripping down.  Time after time the Handana would wipe it all away, nice and soft-like.  I am a believer...this is the running accessory you never knew was possible... until now.  I will keep one with me on my runs and hope to try it on rides when it warms up enough for cycling.  Not that I need to mention it, but the Handana is super cute and you will feel strong.  Strength and cuteness: what a concept!

Also, Katie has a really cool story. Go check it out at MyHandana.com/about/.


After

Now, for the giveaway!  You have 5 ways to enter!  Click on the buttons below to get an entry for each! Post a comment if you enter!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

A Verse for Every Mile

As I prepare to run my 2nd marathon,  I try to use sayings, mantras, songs, and verses to help get me through these long runs and speed workouts.  Last week I came up with a list of my favorite running songs right now.  Here are verses that give me strength.  I hope that they can give you the inspiration they give me. 

1. Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. *Hebrews 12:1
2. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. *Philippians 4:6
3. I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. *Romans 8:18
4. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. *Joshua 1:9
5. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.*Romans 12:12
6. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.  Each day has enough trouble of its own. *Matthew 6:34
7. How valuable you are!  Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?*Luke 12:24-25
8. For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.*Isaiah 41:13
9. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and the one who knocks, the door will be opened. *Luke 11:10
10. Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.  Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone.  Forgive as the Lord forgave you.  And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. *Colossians 3:12-14
11. Be still and know that I am God. *Psalm 46:10 (Please, don't take this one literally.)
12. I am leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart.  And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give.  So don't be troubled or afraid. *John 14:27
13. Be strong and courageous!  Do not be afraid.  For the Lord your God has gone ahead of you.  He will neither fail you nor abandon you.*Deuteronomy 31:6
14. "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord.  "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  You will call on me, and I will listen to you.  You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. *Jeremiah 29:11-13
15. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection.  He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. *Psalms 18:2
16. Don't be afraid, for I am with you.  Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you.  I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. *Isaiah 41:10
17. Let us not grow weary in doing good.  For at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. *Galatians 6:9
18. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.  Be strong and courageous. *Joshua 10:25
19. Take heart! I have overcome the world.*John 16:33
20. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength.  They will soar high on the wings like eagles.  They will run and not grow weary.  They will walk and not faint. *Isaiah 40:31
21. "What do you mean, 'If I can'?" Jesus asked.  "Anything is possible if a person believes." *Mark 9:23
22. We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character; and character, hope. *Romans 5:3-4
23. Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. *Ephesians 6:10
24. Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek his will in all you do, and he will set your paths straight. *Proverbs 3:5-6
25. I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strength. *Philippians 4:13
26. When you pass though the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.  When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.  For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.  *Isaiah 43:2-3

And for that .2 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have kept the faith. *2Timothy 4:7

Do you have a verse or saying that gets you through it?  Post it below!