Laying in my cozy bed on a cool Fall Sunday morning while listening to the sound of raindrops dancing in an unpredictable symphony on the roof, I feel relaxed and at peace. Reflecting on the journey that I began just 10.5 months ago, it seems to be happening so fast yet in slow-motion at the same time. Each day has been it’s own little space in time, bringing new and many times unexpected adventures. As I am learning to see through new eyes I find myself seeing the world in an entirely new and fresh way. I see hope and a future. I see endless possibilities. I see the impossible as possible. I see unbelief as a new adventure. But most of all I see the best version of me awakening. I’m introducing myself to me. Yes, I look in the mirror and say “Well hello there Stephanie. It’s nice to finally meet you.” “Yes it is, isn’t it?” “I like you.” “I’m glad because I’m here to stay.” Self-dialogue can be quite healing. 😊 Sometimes when walking past a mirror I do a double-take because I don’t recognize my new body. As of December 1, 2014/10.5 months I have lost (never to be found again😉) 123 pounds! I have walked 5 5K’s so far. I’ve began adding spurts of jogging during my most recent 5K, cutting several minutes off my time. I am working out at the gym, training 5-6 days a week. I eat healthy and track my food/calories. The biggest contribution to my continued success is my support system. I am constantly being cheered on and encouraged by my family, my friends and even strangers. I am honored and humbled to know that several people have told me that because of me, they are inspired and have started their own journey of making healthy choices to loose weight and be physically active. I’m realizing that my weight loss is so much bigger (no pun intended lol) than just me dropping pounds. It’s bringing hope. What a blessing. Words cannot express how thankful I am. Knowing that my struggles and tough moments are helping others is what keeps me motivated to push forward and not give up. It’s so worth it… and so are you.
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I loved running the half marathon this year!! The course was diverse, well laid out, and clearly marked. All the volunteers were cheerful and helpful. I loved the food at the end, the music and the great energy and enthusiasm of all those involved. It was very evident that great care and thought went into every detail of this fantastic race. A big thank you to everyone who put so much time and effort into making this race a great experience!! Each succeeding year of this race gets better and better--I look forward to next year!
I had a blast. The course was well laid out and the stations were a great sight to see. The finish line was set up wonderfully. The after food, music, stretch tables and crowd were very welcoming. Thank you for everything. I really can't wait till next year.
My first Marathon! This was a great experience, extremely well marked course not only that but someone at every turn cheering you on was great, big thanks to them! Aid stations lots of them, after mile 20 my belt was empty and I was almost running on empty, they relly helped me finsh, they had everything I was even able to get a gel packet. I will run it again, and would recommend it to anyone. Thank you!
I do travel out-of-state for races from time to time and when I heard about this one, I had to participate. From the amazing/scenic course to the incredible volunteers, friendly participants & spectacular weather, I'd have to give kudos for a job well done. You guys just keep rocking it like you are and it won't forsake you. I hope to be back next year!
This was my first race ever and it could not have been any better! The energy on the course was amazing, everyone cheering each other on was inspiring. Having a pacer helped me complete my half marathon in my goal time! The whole event was well planned and a fun day all around, can't wait to do it again!!
The race was awesome. A really beautiful course. So many kind volunteers cheering us on along the way. Lots of free yummy food at the end. Also live music, physical therapists to help you stretch afterward. The t-shirts were great. My friends from Georgia and I are planning to make this our memorial day tradition!
Great event! I just ran the half today! The race seemed well organized and the course is fast and flat as described and runs through lovely neighborhoods and parks, nicely shaded, lots of beautiful trees and greenery, etc. Loved the venue for the start and finish. Loved the free hot dog or burrito option at the end for participants and BTW the "dawg's" were great and the fellow that owns and runs the hot dog stand was really cool!! He even took the time to snap a few pics of my friend and I for us. Enjoyed the live music while we were eating and waiting for award announcements. I would definitely run this race again and since I won a free race entry (division award) I plan to do just that next year!
This was a very well organized marathon, especially for an inaugural one! Beautiful and fast course. I got a new PR! Great support along the course, especially in the last hard miles. The race director even ran with me for a little bit. :-) I would definitely recommend it. It was small being it's first year but I expect to see it grow a lot in the coming years.
