A Drive and a Run to the Lake

The past couple months Brett has been crazily busy studying for national boards, which he takes this upcoming Friday and Saturday. Fortunately (or maybe unfortunately) I have been able to work around his study schedule and continue my crazy marathon training. Last Friday, Brett was going to spend the night studying but had about an hour or two to hang out with us. Rachel and I have been taking our long runs on Saturday out to Usery Pass, so Brett and I took the kids for a drive to map out my upcoming 20 mile route. Yes, I just said 20 miles...aaaaahhh! (I was glad that the Biggest Loser contestants just ran their marathon this last week because I kept thinking..."If they can do it, I can do it!) Well, part of the 20 mile course took us to Saguaro Lake, so we let the kids get out and feed the ducks. They had so much!

Well, Saturday has come and gone and I am still alive. I cannnot believe I ran 20 miles...unbelievable. It was the first time I have ever prayed before running...asking for strength, no injuries and to be mentally ready. Not only did Rachel and I run 20 miles, but we ran a dang up and downhill course of 20 miles...totally butt kicking. We started off at Ellsworth and Broadway and ran to the highest hill right before the Saguaro Lake turn-off and back to the four-way stop where Rachel's husband awaited us with the car. That dang hill before the lake was soooooo hard! I thought it would never end and my lungs and legs were totally feeling it. The good thing is "what goes up must come down" and I was so happy to say "adios" to that hill and head back. I think with all that hill training, Rachel and I will definitely be ready for a flat course marathon. Next week our long run will be 22 miles...WE CAN DO IT...well that's what I'm trying to convince myself, anyways.

It is truly amazing what our bodies are capable of. Heavenly Father built our bodies to accomplish so many things and I feel so blessed to push my body physically, mentally and spiritually. That's what this life is all about...to push ourselves in ways we never thought possible...to become stronger, more knowledgeable and to overcome so much. This training has been a great time to reflect, especially during this time of year as we celebrate the life of Jesus Christ. Knowing what our Savior endured and to know that no matter what I accomplish here on earth, it will never compare to what he did and sacrificed...that I am truly grateful for.