As many, many months have passed, and I've neglected this blog, the extra inside time today due to the icy conditions mixed with the excitement of race week has given me the opportunity and push to pick back up this little gem that is my blog. I use little gem loosely.
Since #runsandguns nothing much has changed. Several US of A travel trips, workouts, running, work and master's classes occupy my hours. We've changed up our daytime workout routine a bit, adding stairs and jump roping to our otherwise regular lunch runs, hot yoga is still hot as hell and 4:40 a.m. still feels really early.
I'm happy to report that the master's classes have ceased and pending the results of my comprehensive exam, I'm scheduled to graduate in May. I may or may not have cried a few tears of relief at the wrap up of this chapter. Although I learned a decent amount, and I'm grateful for the opportunity, obtaining this degree has been one of the least favorite and most unenjoyable things I've ever done in my life and given the choice, I'm not sure I would do it all over again. Papers, homework and presentations don't mix well with our schedule, and I find myself in a state of euphoria when I realize I can focus all of my time outside of work on things that I actually want to do. With that being said, I'm confident this chapter will lead me down a path of reflection that will lead to the action that is: What do I want to be when I grow up? "Where you are today is no accident. God is using the situation you are in right now to shape you and prepare you for the place He wants to bring you into tomorrow. Trust Him with His plan even if you don't understand it."
I'm happy to report that the master's classes have ceased and pending the results of my comprehensive exam, I'm scheduled to graduate in May. I may or may not have cried a few tears of relief at the wrap up of this chapter. Although I learned a decent amount, and I'm grateful for the opportunity, obtaining this degree has been one of the least favorite and most unenjoyable things I've ever done in my life and given the choice, I'm not sure I would do it all over again. Papers, homework and presentations don't mix well with our schedule, and I find myself in a state of euphoria when I realize I can focus all of my time outside of work on things that I actually want to do. With that being said, I'm confident this chapter will lead me down a path of reflection that will lead to the action that is: What do I want to be when I grow up? "Where you are today is no accident. God is using the situation you are in right now to shape you and prepare you for the place He wants to bring you into tomorrow. Trust Him with His plan even if you don't understand it."
With the newness of the new year wearing off, I've decided that the word best to encompass all that I want out of 2014 is priorities. There is true beauty in the power of not only saying no, but in doing the things and being in the places where I truly want to be and not apologizing for doing so. By surrounding myself with people that build me up and make me a better person, I no longer feel obligated to do things my heart isn't invested in. 2014 is looking bright!
As mentioned above, it's race week! New Orleans Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon round two with Team No Excuses is roughly four days away! Last year I did something never in my wildest dreams I thought would happen. From not being able to run a fourth of a mile to running 13.1 without stopping, this race is so much more than a race. It's a symbol of how far I've come since joining the Versus Strength and Conditioning community and proof to myself that I really can do anything I put my mind to. I can actually achieve goals if I put in the hard work! What started out as a race has turned into a tradition that will forever hold a happy place in my heart! Our first five-miler of half training was on Thanksgiving and with the longest training runs behind us, I can't wait to run with some of my most favorite people who inspire me everyday in the city that I love! What a perfect combination!
I'm hoping for a PR this weekend, but no matter the outcome, I'll be happy and pleased and proud to cross that finish line with another 13.1 in the books!
I'm hoping for a PR this weekend, but no matter the outcome, I'll be happy and pleased and proud to cross that finish line with another 13.1 in the books!
Cheers!
