18 miles down, 7 weeks to go!

Tonight I am writing this blog listening to Christmas music, finally!  This week will be filled with apartment decorations, search for Christmas candles, and maybe mistletoe!

I hope everyone had a wonderful, love filled Thanksgiving weekend with way too much pie and sides! 
I completed the TXU Energy 2011 Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day and got my PR for a 10K race at 50:55, 55 seconds short of my initial goal, but I was happy that I was at least close.  The turnout was over 13,000 runners at the race.  It was wonderful to see Houstonians getting up early on a holiday to burn some calories and to help raise money for Sheltering Arms.  I had a wonderful Thanksgiving with my family, and it meant more to me than any other Thanksgiving before.  My family has shaped me into the person I am now and still becoming.  I am  forever grateful to my parents, David and Doris,  for all the sacrifices and for always supporting me even when I didn't believe in myself. 

Today I completed 18 miles, feeling a little sore but overall pretty great!  The cool weather felt wonderful and I'm crossing my fingers for similar weather conditions on Marathon Day.  I can't say thank you enough to everyone for their support and kinds words of encouragement.  Next week's long run is a 20 miler; get excited!!!

Love,
Lauren

I'm back!!

So update on the ankle.  It is doing much better and I was able to complete a 9 mile run today with no pain!!!
I am signed up to run the TXU Turkey Trot benefitting Sheltering Arms on Thanksgiving morning.  My goal time is complete the 10K race in 50 minutes, which would be my PR in that distance category. 

It is now less than 2 months till Marathon day! Please mark you calenders and cheer me on, especially after mile 18.  I will gladly except beer, candy, hi-fives, and love big loud signs! :)

Have a great and hopefully short work week! Safe travels to all of those flying and/or driving home for Thanksgiving.

-Lauren

D.C. state of mind

I was fortunate to enjoy the amazing weather in Arlington, VA and Washington, D.C. this weekend.  After some poor GPS navigation, and possibly a personal weak sense of direction, I finally found the Mt. Vernon trail!  It was breath taking to see the tree foliage all around.  It was a definite blessing from God and helped me to see that all changes have a purpose; sometimes the beauty isn't appartent until we take time to the whole picture.
This is just what I needed to pump up my spirit!  Only 9 weeks to go!
Love,
Lauren

It's officially official!

I'm "officially" registered for the 2012 Chevron Houston Marathon, meaning I have met my initial goal to raise $500.00 dollars!! Thank you everyone for your support now and along the next 11 weeks until the big race.

Over the past week weeks a lot of changes have been going on in my life.  Some that have taken me by surprise and others that are prayers being answered.  Nevertheless, I have a peaceful feeling in my heart knowing of all the great love in my life that surrounds me now and in the future to come.  I have come to a turning point in my life and realize how blessed I am in my life regarding my family, friends, career, and ability to physically participate in sports.  Love and laugh everyday to the maximum capacity, otherwise you will never experience true happiness.

Just smile and set fire to the rain! :)
 -Lauren