picking up the pace

It was that smile that got me as I passed you
We have spent hours talking about running
And as you looked at me I felt so vulnerable

Coming around the corner my legs did not want to continue
I had put in three miles and said to myself I was going to make it four
I was tired, but was not about to give up

I had no idea I would be crossing your path
As I rounded the corner, there you were
And I knew you were silently cheering me on as you waved

I reached for a little courage to push myself
Pick up the pace
And keep on going, faster than I thought I could

As I finished out my run your voice and smile kept me company
In my head I heard your cheers
Taking one step after the other, hoping to make you proud

After, you said I looked like a runner
Good pace, good stride, good cadence
My heart swelled with gratitude

You don't know this, but our conversations inspire me
They push me, and make me want to do better
When I am alone on the road your words play in my head

It was great to see you out there
In the past I never would have taken that road
To afraid to be seen

But there I was today, not only seen
But showing up, pushing myself,
And running my fastest pace yet

nyc marathon bound

In 2010 I stood on the side of the road at the NYC Marathon and cheered on my Aunt Kelly and Uncle Chris as they pushed themselves through 26.2 miles.  I was in awe of their dedication, strength, and courage.  They were running for the Sloan Kettering Memorial Hospital with Fred's Team in honor of Kelly's Father who lost his life to cancer.  

As I stood there overflowing with inspiration I said to my cousin, "I want to do this next year!"  Being there in the moment and watching all walks of life push themselves further than they ever thought possible I couldn't help but be inspired.  I was a runner in high school and never dreamed of running a marathon, but on that day the dream was ignited.  

When I got home the excitement of the moment wore off and I realized how much time and dedication it would take to actually train for the marathon and I said, "maybe next year".  A few years have passed since that initial dream was spoken and this year that dream will come true.  

Each year since 2010 either Kelly or Chris have ran with Fred's Team, raising money to support the hospital, doctors, researchers, patients, and their families.  This year I am stepping in to run and give their legs a break.  I am honored to have the opportunity to run for Fred's Team and so grateful for the strength and dedication that Kelly and Chris have shown over the years.  They have taught me that with determination and practice anything is possible.  

Along with the countless number of miles that I will be training I will also raising money for Fred's Team.  It will be a different sort of marathon to raise the money, but each dollar matters and I will be there every step of the way in order to surpass my goal.  

As I train for November 2nd I will be showing up here as well, with stories, inspiration, and the struggles that arise when you push yourself past your preconceived limit.  I hope you will join me on this journey.  Together we can take a step forward to fight cancer.  

You can find my Fred's Team donation page here.  

Please pass this along to anyone you feel would be interested.  When we come together in small ways, big things happen.  Let's come together.  

xo

why I run

Some wonder why I do it
They do not understand my need to show up day after day
It is about putting one foot in front of the other
Looking forward
I cannot change what is behind me
I can only keep going
It is about letting loose
Getting out of my head space
It is about listening to the rhythm of my body
Feeling the steady ground below my feet
Having confidence and faith in what I am able to achieve
It is about strength, courage, and determination
The path may be filled with unknowns and unclear obstacles
But there are smiling faces waving back at me as I pass
Problems are worked out
Clarity arises as I settle into my rhythm
The song you I on repeat guides my next step
I go farther than I ever think possible
I make it to the top of the hill 
Throwing my hands up in the air in true Rocky fashion
I may slow down
But I never give up
I  always find the strength
And I always show up