The Sweet Smell of Success!

Honestly, words cannot express how excited I was (and still am) after finishing my half marathon Saturday morning!  Since mid-July I have been training harder, cross-training, eating healthier and really focusing on a better me.  That effort paid off this weekend.

I have been seeing improvements in my body, health and running over the last few months since I made the decision to improve myself.  It's amazing how a couple of small changes like eating less junk and exercising more can make such big changes!  Not only have I lost weight and gained muscle, I've gained confidence in myself I've never had.

So, when my husband, Mom, Dad and I flew to San Francisco last week for vacation before my half marathon I felt good.  I had every intention of running a couple of times throughout the week leading up to the half, but alas, that didn't happen (what kind of hotel gym doesn't open until 7am??).  Still, I knew my training had been enough and I was ready.  Never before was I so calm before a run/race - not even shorter races!

I set out Saturday morning with two goals - First, to run the entire 13.1 miles with no walk breaks.  Second, to finish in 2 hours 15 minutes, which would blow my previous PR of 2 hours 27 minutes out of the water.  I accomplished both!!!  I finished in 2 hours 14 minutes and 35 seconds!  I'm not sure I stopped smiling the rest of the day!  And the thought of my accomplishment still brings a smile to my face now.

So, don't give up on yourself - ever.  It's taken me two years to get here.  Wednesday the 22nd is my two year Runniversary!  I ran my first "race" last November.  My first half marathon in January.  And this is the first time I've run the entire 13.1 miles - and it's my fourth half marathon.  Running isn't easy for everyone - for me it's hard work - but oh so worth it!  The sweet smell of success is worth the time and effort and pain.  Keep going.  You can do it!

~ Courtney