miles in a year

I ran (at least tried to) in high school. A big reason I did was in fact because of a boy (said boy ended up being my husband, so it's okay). I was terribly slow and my endurance level was bleh. Pretty sure I came in LAST at every race. Since then I have found a love of running. It's a way for me to have time to just be. I am happier because of it. After the pregnancy I was determined to get back into. Well, I am happy to announce in the past 365 days I have recorded a whopping 700 miles (100 of those I accomplished in 1 month alone). This is a big deal for me.

Though we've moved away from Provo, I still find myself coming back for the Rex Lee Run each year. You could say the cause hits close to home...my Dad is a cancer survivor. This will mark the 8th year I've participated in the 5k. This year was extra special having most of my family there.

My new PR 26.43. And I wasn't last mind you. 😁 Yay!

Here's to the next 700+ miles!

Rivalry Relay

As the tagline reads, "1 day, 6 friends, 60 miles. Salt Lake City to Provo."  Close enough. This year it was more like, "9 hours 58 minutes, 6 family members (who are consequently also my friends), and 63.5 miles (the route had a bit of an adjustment thanks to Udot construction).

This is our second  relay (you can read about the first one here) this summer and I love it. Our team, the Relay-ted Comrades ran in style with our Hawaiian shirts. Oh and you can't forget the pom-pom hat! The weather was hotter than desirable but what can you expect at the end of August in Utah? The race started at the U and ended at Kiwanis park across from the Y, hence the "rivalry" relay.

The most stunning feat was Tanner running up Suncrest. If any have you have ever driven that you know really what it means. Basically 1200 feet + 11% grade for 3.3 miles, just to give you an idea. Though he wasn't the official race "King of the Mountain," he might as well be in my eyes. He killed it. Proud moment for me.

Running behind Hogle Zoo in the pitch dark and hearing rustling // Jason tripping on a tree root // Tanner taking a selfie with a goat // Bailing water out of the back of the van // "Squeeze the pom-pom" // Spelling comrades wrong, ended up com"rads"...just go with it // Sleeping in accidentally 7 minutes before we had to leave // So many honey buckets // Jessica going mama bear when looking for her hubby // PR in the mile and 5k // Chocolate milk // Ending the race with creamies

My sisters (and their misters) killed it. I think we all had pre-race jitters but everyone ran well. We finished in 16th place overall.

If you were wondering, my quads are still sore. Can't wait for the next race.

 Just look behind him, still had about a mile left to go...

RRR Moab

Running is so good for my soul. It feels so nice to get out with my little man and just run. When friends from our ward invited us to run the Red Rock Relay in Moab, I was excited. Must have been anxious because I couldn't seem to sleep the night before. Our team, Chafin the Dream, started at 5:40 am. Luckily for me, I got the first leg. Running through the canyon during the sunrise was so, so good. My second leg however doesn't get as good of reviews. Four miles with a 1000 foot elevation gain does a number on your quads.

All of us seemed to have a (mostly) enjoyable time. Nothing like a day of running to get your appetite worked up. I ate so much chips and salsa after waiting for our burrito to come. Looking forward to the next relay at the end of August.

running for a cure

Getting back into running has been so good. So, so good. No arguing that the physical benefits from running keep a body healthy and strong. BUT I love to run because what I've found it does for my brain. A time when you can just be and clear your mind. I used to be really self conscious of my running. Over the years I've come to be proud that I may not be fast but I am strong. Running isn't about competing with others but with ourselves. I know, I know that sounds super cheesy but it is true.

Since I was a senior in high school I've ran the Rex Lee Run for a Cure (100% the proceeds go to cancer research). This race is special for me personally because my father is a cancer survivor, I think of him throughout the race. This was the first 5k (of many) with the three of us. Oh and the weather was amazing.

Thanks to my husband for sticking with us the whole race (even though I know he was itching to run much faster).

we've got a runner!

One of my favorite things is running with my husband. Since I'm not quite up to marathon distance, he got to "enjoy" 26.2 miles in the pouring rain. This guy is such a stud! It takes a lot physically and mentally to push your body in that way. Lucky for him, it's something he's really good at.

Pre-Race:

 Why hello 5am!

 This time around I enjoyed the comforts of sleeping in.

Can you spot him?

(hint: find the red jacket)

Post-Race:

Despite being completely exhausted, sopping wet, and practically frozen...

he still had a smile on his face.

That's right, my Ogden Marathon-er. 

One proud wife I am.

P.S. Maybe I'll join him next time?