An Incredible Two Years!

As the end of August came to a close so did my second year of running. Over the course of the past two years I have become more passionate about the sport of running through the new and exciting challenges and experiences it has had to offer. Along the way my life has been touched by so many incredible people, their stories, experiences, and most of all guidance.
Since that first (and near death, jk) run of mine in August of 2009, I thought that this was one of the most ridiculous things that I have ever done. I was running. What in the hell would someone want to do this for? This is painful, exhausting and yet exhilarating. I don’t know if it was the way it lifted the stress off my shoulders or the excitement of working so hard at something I have never 'truly' done before, but I was hooked.
I began to change my purpose for running from using it to escape life's troubles to embracing the challenges and opportunities that existed. Since that first step I have completed races of varying distances and difficulties. I have run and completed 5k's, 10k's, 1/2 Marathons, Marathons, 50k's, 50 Milers, and a 100k. I have also dabbled in triathlons with competing in and completing two sprint triathlons and one Olympic distance triathlon. I have not completed or achieved the goals I have set for myself in the world of running and I will continue to relentlessly pursue my dreams. I say this not to boast my accomplishments, but more to express that idea that anyone can run and participate in this sport; it all starts with putting one foot in front of the other.
I have learned more about my personal will power and drive to push my body’s limits than I ever have. This sport has so much to offer through a variety of ways. I raised money for great causes, traveled to amazing places, and run through more terrain than I ever thought imaginable.
For whatever reason it may be, I encourage all of you to get and give it a chance. Set a goal to complete your first 5k, or challenge yourself to complete an ultra! Whatever you decide, I know that crossing that finish line, whether it be first, last or middle of the pack, no one can take away the fact that you did it, and you accomplished it! Thank you all for following along in my journey and please join me for a run or race at anytime, I may not be too fast, but I promise we will have fun!

"I run because it's so symbolic of life. You have to drive yourself to overcome the obstacles. You might feel that you can't. But then you find your inner strength, and realize you're capable of so much more than you thought."
--Arthur Blank