Happy New Year!

I rang in the new year with a bang. I was just so blessed to pull off my first Frosty 5K New Years Day WIN!! Even better..... I PR'd too!
It was below feezing, not too windy, and full of sunshine. I guess it was just my day.

Pre-Race with my parents and friends

I pulled in front before mile one and ran as hard as I could to keep #2 behind me. When I knew I had sealed the win I was overjoyed. When I turned the corner to see the clock and knew I PRed, I was in shock.

At the Start (I'm looking back at FairWeather Runner!)

My previous PR was set in June 2009. I ran a 19:56 that summer. I clocked a 19:42 on Saturday. Sub zero temps are rarely PR days and it hurt all day in my chest, but it was worth it. I got a gold medal and a $100 gift certificate to First Gear.

Finishing in 19:42

I had tucked this race back in my mind during the week. I knew that there was gift money to be won. I held off on any after Christmas shopping in the tiny belief that I stood a chance at winning.
My Dad and I joked later that night that I pulled a "Babe Ruth" and called my shot.
I was just lucky and I know it.
I prayed the night before and that morning for God's favor. As I travel down this road as a runner I've been really trying to find the pure joy in the run. That's something I've lost many times during my journey. I long for the days that I can't wait to get out there. The mornings when I'm still nervous before a long run. The runs I go further because I want to.
Mostly I'm seeking to sense my God's goodness when I run. The 5K hurt, but I felt his pleasure and that's the real prize.


I didn't see Chariot's Of Fire until just a few years ago. Since then I hear the quote of Eric Liddell running through my head every time I run. How I desire to have this be my anthem every time I lace up my shoes.

"I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure."

-Eric Liddell

It was a great post-race too. I met some new people, caught up with some others, and caught glimpses of some I wished I'd talked to. I did get to talk to John (2Slow4Boston) and get reminded to stop slacking on my blog, I mean I was inspired to write.... right John?

Most of my family was at the race and we all had a great morning. My sister was in town for the Holiday and we had a wonderful post-race afternoon and evening. And if you want to talk about pleasure, listen to my uncontrollable laughing as we decided to dispose of our gingerbread house in style this year. (You might be a redneck..........)


HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!