Race for the Cure

Hello Fall, hello race season! Even though I won't be running the big 13.1 or 26.2 anytime soon, there is no stopping me from running a 5K, especially Race for the Cure. It definitely is one of my favorite fall 5Ks. It is a beautiful thing to celebrate those who have survived breast cancer, and encourage those who are still in the fight. Although I was disappointed that I could not run at my usual pace, in a way, I am almost glad. I could not have been any happier running at a pace alongside my sister. This injury has taught me it isn't about who's the fastest, who's the fittest, and who's the "best runner."Running is far more than the actual motion of running. It is about encouraging others, doing the things you thought you could never do before, and finding your happy pace. My new favorite running accessory, my air cast, has taught me to slow down and enjoy every step of the run. There is always going to be someone out there who is faster, stronger, or better than you, so why not focus on running your fastest, being your strongest, and doing the best that you can do? It could not get any better than running with my sisters, and I cannot wait to see where our feet will take us down the road!

Getting ready for a pink filled day!

Spending time at the ZTA volunteer tent with our sisters!

After run breakfast!

Waiting to register!

Back in Runner Girl Action!

Thankfully, I can put my lifeguarding tank tops, whistle, and sunscreen away until next summer. August was full of long days out under the hot sun, and finishing up assignments for my summer classes. Happily, I started a new semester and I am excited for what my new classes will bring. I am also instructing a Spanish 102 class, and that has really opened my eyes to how much Spanish I actually know, and how much I enjoy helping the other kids learn. I am thrilled that I finally feel confident about my major, and I think this will have a positive affect on my grades this semester (or at least I hope so!). Throughout the past year I have learned that if you're unhappy with yourself, its impossible to find the good in anything, especially when you are constantly comparing yourself to others. Striving to be someone else is a waste of the person you are. If you have to try to "fit in," or act like you are somebody you are not, they clearly are not the right people you need in your life. I have a new car, a supportive family, great friends, have the opportunity to go to school, and have brand new nikes, what else could a runner girl need?

Unfortunately, running is the one thing that is not going so well in my life right now, which is mostly my fault. Over the past few weeks I have pushed myself to the limit (which, like everything else, is good in MODERATION!) and am starting to have pain in my knee and ankle. I have been taking it on the easier side, with only biking and swimming, and hope to return to the road by this weekend. With two marathons and a half-marathon coming up, there is not too much time to wait around!

With so many upcoming races, and the start of the fall season of Girls on the Run tomorrow, there will be many posts to come. Thanks for sticking around!