active link

I am raising money for Girls On The Run. To donate go to http://www.active.com/donate/SoleMates2012/PSchaff8


GOTR is a self esteem program for girls in 3rd- 8th grade. To learn more about the GOTR program go to

www.uwsm.org/girlsontherun


Hello Readers,
This blog is meant to be an honest, unedited account of my quest to finish my first marathon. As embarassing as some of the content is for me to share I hope you appreciate my candor and find a whole new respect for athletes of ANY level.

Feel free to laugh at me, cry with me, and share your own experiences. And with God's help my final entry on October 9th (Chicago Marathon) will be a happy one.

October 6, 2011 - Peace & Confidence

It has been strange to cut down on my mileage this week. I understand the concept of tapering yet I feel like a part of me that I’ve grown to love is missing. As I’ve said before, running is my “happy place” where this Mommy can be alone with her thoughts, be unreachable, and return home refreshed. I think this is a clear sign I should continue to run after the marathon.

The forecast on race day is for sunny and 80 degrees. Though this is about 15 degrees warmer than I had hoped it is not insurmountable. I’ve been assured that all of our training in the extremely hot and humid weather this summer has conditioned me for a warmer run. So that is what I am telling myself every time I see a weather forecast.

The marathon is just 3 days away and the butterflies are still with me. As a participant I have received at least 2 marathon related emails every day this week, which has prevented me from forgetting about it. Also, my plantar fasciitis still doesn’t feel healed so that worries me. I’m stuck wearing either my running shoes or my Teva sandals as they feel the best on my feet.

It’s crunch time, knowing I can’t forget about the marathon until race day I have to face it head on. To help settle the butterflies I’ve combined several inspirational emails, advice from friends, and the “Runner’s Prayer” into a document that I read parts of when I get super nervous. After reading the document I say the Runner’s Prayer out loud, add in my own prayer, and am filled with what can best be described as peace and confidence. My new mantra is “I trained for this, I can do this, I am going to have fun.” I am not going to worry about my time. I am going to enjoy the experience, the crowds, and the journey. So far, this mentality is working, talk to me on Saturday. :-)

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