My First Race

I did it. I ran my first 5K in 32 minutes. I know that finish time leaves room for improvement, and that's why I'll keep on "truckin". Eventually I will improve my time, but for now I am thankful for being able to finish a race. What I love most about running is the time I get to think while running. I use that time to think about everything...my kids, my family, my friends, but mostly my God. I look at the sky above me in amazement at His creation. Whether it's stars at night, clouds, a sunset, a sunrise, it's all amazing. I think about all the struggles we face on this Earth and how beautiful Heaven will be one day. I can only imagine...

Here's a couple of shots from my first race that my husband took with his phone. Thanks, Jan, for going with me and taking the kids to watch "Mommy" cross the finish line. I almost cried as I approached you all standing there cheering me on. :-)

(Don't know why the pic cut off my legs! hehe)

Filling out my card at the finish

This next week, I begin my "novice" training for the St. Jude half marathon. As I run, I will be thinking about our sweet Lucy and all of the children being treated for cancer and other diseases. I will be praying as I run. I downloaded several new praise/worship songs to my ipod last week. I will admit that I get overwhelmed with emotion when I hear certain songs, especially my favorites, The Revelation Song, I Will Rise, and Shout to the Lord. If you see me running with my hands raised to the heavens, you'll know I am listening to one of these songs and losing myself in the words and music. If you see me crying while running, it's because I cannot contain my emotion. Or maybe I'm needing medical assistance of some kind. :-) Just kidding.

So, my first race is complete. Next up... a 5K on Sept. 10th - the Cotton Pickin' 5K in Somerville. (Don't you just love that name?) Keep praying for Lucy, and pray for other children "running the race" in their fight against childhood diseases. If you would like to donate to "Team Lucy" for the St. Jude Marathon weekend, click here. Oh, and if your Lucy bow is showing any "wear and tear", Hometown Flowers (901.476.1212) in Covington is trading worn Lucy bows for new bows for $5.00 and donating the money to St. Jude.