Once upon a time I used to look at people who ran and think that they must enjoy misery.  I truly couldn’t understand why anyone would want to run.  I personally hated to run.  Hike 13 miles up a mountain?  No problem.  Paddle for 8 hours straight?  You betcha. But run one mile….no way.

In all fairness, I always felt like I was doing something wrong when I ran.  Did I look ridiculous? Was I wearing the right shoes?  How fast and how far was I supposed to run?  Fast forward about 10 years and here I am, not only completing every 5K I can find**, but now training for a half-marathon.

Yes, you read that right. I’m training to participate in a very special half-marathon that will take place in October.  I’m no where near ready, but I’m training hard and making progress with each run.  And who cares what I look like when I run or what shoes I wear (although I did find some awesome ones, for sure).  I guess that’s what happens when you age….you start doing things for you, not for the approval of others.

Now that I’m older and a smidge wiser, I find that I really do enjoy running.  Not only is it a great challenge for me, but I truly love trail running in the woods near my house.  It’s such a great time to connect with nature, and such a release as well.

photo from Rising Above Ministries

So I decided to push myself hard and train for a half marathon–but not just any half marathon.  I will be participating and partnering with a special needs ministry.  I will cross the finish line with a special needs participant, and I cannot wait!!  Not only do I get to run for myself and see how far I can push myself, but I get to help someone else in the process.  If you live in the Tennessee area, I encourage you to check it out.  They are in need of more runners and special needs participants.  It’s an awesome reason to run!

http://www.risingaboveministries.info/haunted-half

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**Now that my ankle is healing nicely, I am planning on participating in the Best Buddies 5K on Saturday.  A big thank you to all who have donated.  There is still time to donate to this wonderful cause, please check out this post to learn more!!