Call Me Crazy, Call Me a Runner

It all began one evening

I remember hanging out at my friend, Shellie's, around May or June of 2013. The subject of running came up, as it tends to do when you're surrounded by runners. 

I was an occasional runner. I had run several 5k races up to this point. I didn't make running a priority, or a true part of my life. I wanted to, though. And I had a pipe dream... to run a half marathon at one point in my life. 

I made mention of that last one, to my friends that night. Shortly after that, I was tagged in a post on Facebook. It was from my friend, Thelma. It was time to sign up for the Chevron Houston Marathon for 2014. Seven months away. 

I thought about it. Could I really do this? It would require major training, commitment, and discipline; something I really struggle with. 

I debated. I was crazy to think this would happen! 

I signed up. For my first half marathon.

Training

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Creative Commons

I'd like to say I started up training immediately.

But that's not the case. 

It was summer and blazing hot. Plus, I went to worship school in California for two weeks, shortly after signing up for the half marathon.

It wasn't until around September or October that I got serious about training. (I don't recommend waiting that long to start when you're basically starting from the beginning.) 

To my complete surprise, a small group formed. I found other friends of mine who wanted to run. And so, Misty, Mikella, Bobby, Brenda, and I started off.  Slowly, but steadily.  Without meaning to, they all started training with me. Which meant, when mileage increased for me, it did for them as well.  

Our support system was and still is amazing. It kept us going. Kept us encouraged. 

We battled obstacles: shin splints, feet issues, breathing, husbands working shift work, children, cold weather, holidays..... but we persevered. And refused to give up. 

And before I knew it.... it was time.

Race Day!

I was a complete bundle of nerves on race day. I attempted to go to sleep early the night before, but failed. My mind just wouldn't stop. I had one of my running buddies, Mikella, and my best friend, Brittany come with me. They prayed over me and gave me a hug before I got in my corral. 

And then I waited. Waited until the start of the race. And then until my corral was released. 

My GPS watch was primed and ready. I had my belt on with all my essentials that I'd need. My playlist was already running and my headphones where in place.  My nerves were starting to calm down and in its place, adrenaline came rushing in.

 I could DO this! I was ready. I had trained the best I could. 

           and off I went! 

I kept a very steady pace. I enjoyed the crowds. People shouting my name (Because it was on my bib) telling me to keep going. The signs people held up. They were hilarious. 

I loved every minute of it. At my halfway point, I felt amazing. I grabbed my phone and texted my husband, Brittany, and Mikella to let them know.  Even when I started getting tired, I pressed on.  

I was amazed at all the runners around me. Old and young. People from different states and countries. All of us, running together. With one goal: to finish.

And Finish I did!

I completed my first half marathon in 2 hours and 49 minutes. And I couldn't be more proud of myself. 

And its not just about the running. 

Like I said earlier: discipline has been an issue for me for a long time. And still is. I'm getting better, day by day. By signing up for this race and seeing it through to completion, without throwing in the towel, is a huge step in the right direction. 

It proved to me that I CAN do something if I believe it. If I make it a priority. If I discipline myself to get out there and do what needs to be done in order to achieve what may seem like the impossible. 

And 8 months ago, completing a half marathon did seem impossible. But with the help of my family, friends, and the Lord, I did it. And that is something I will never forget. Its something I will remember the next time something feels like its too much to complete. 

I can. And YOU can. Be it a race or something else completely. 

Many may say I'm crazy for running. I say, I'm only half crazy.