These are the things that have led me to here

Recently I’ve been enjoying the sounds of the Phantods, a local band, when I realized how relevant some of their lyrics are.  Each day I’ve listened to their song “Just Like You” and heard the singer remind me to “fight perfection” and be proud of being exactly who I am.  It is quite motivating (and catchy at that, been in my head for days on end).  I’m trying to take it to heart as I go about my daily life; realizing that I won’t necessarily be a stick thin model or an Olympic runner, but I’m not so shabby.

Here is the bridge, the entire song is worth listening to as all the lyrics are meaningful:

I would like to take the time to remind you
Some say I’m a mess, but the message is clear
These are the things that have led me to here
Stand up, fight perfection
What is all the obsession?
Take off the mask of regret
And look just like you

I realize that there are many aspects of my life that are imperfect, from my body to my relationships, but I’m striving to improve my self-image and find happiness in the woman I’ve grown to be.  Even though I didn’t pull myself out of bed at 5am this morning for a workout, the gym will still be there this afternoon and I’ll make it just as wonderful as a morning workout.  I can’t let myself get down about the many things I won’t manage to do with my life, but I absolutely must reward the things I do accomplish.

So, in no particular order, five things that have led me to here:

1. I’ll be sappy for a moment, but my parents.  They aren’t by any means the picture of perfection, but I can’t imagine my life without them.  The way my mother kvelled over my marathon was downright embarrassing, but reminded me that I’m accomplishing things no matter what shape I’m in.
2. I was always a chubby kid.  In fact, the other girls in my third grade class were awful to me and sometimes I imagine that is why I’ve had a poor body image up until this point.  Thanks Becky!  But in reality, no other individual can stop me from having a more positive outlook, so here’s trying!
3. I didn’t know how amazing it would feel to be part of a real running club until I moved to Ohio.  I may not be the biggest advocate of the state, but the Cbus Pacers have become a second family.  I am guilted when I miss Saturday morning runs and I can count on them for encouragement when I’m hurting.
4. Who knew running would become an escape.  Exercise has been a part of my life since college, but running is now a special introspective adventure most days.  I have to keep in mind the high I get after a fantastic, sweaty, exhausting workout so that it keeps me coming back for more.
5. And most importantly, my desire to do better, be better, live better.  Now this desire comes and goes, sometimes it flags, but I need to remember that I want to improve my life so I can live it to the fullest every darn day.

So, do tell, what has led you here?  Regale me with stories about your journey, I’d love to hear them. 

I’m a marathoner?

I suppose it still hasn’t sunk in.  Over a week ago, I was given the amazing opportunity to participate in the Boston Marathon.  I, the self proclaimed Turtle, managed to weasel my way in to one of the most prestigious road races in the country.  It wasn’t a short journey, but it was an absolutely life changing experience.  After quite a number of hours (I’m not overjoyed with my time), I crossed the finish line and was instantly transformed.  I can now proudly consider myself part of an elite group of individuals that thoroughly enjoys inflicting pain upon themselves (masochists or marathoner, you take your pick).

I’ve updated my (lengthy) race report under the aptly named “Marathon Monday” page.  If you have the time, patience, or desire, please read it and let me know what you think of my journey.

Inspirational quotes that helped me throughout my training journey:

Ability is what you are capable of doing. 
Motivation determines what you do.
Attitude determines how well you do it. 
- Lou Holtz

I’ve learned that finishing a marathon isn’t just an athletic achievement.
It’s a state of mind; a state of mind that says anything is possible. – John Hanc 

Anyone can give up, it’s the easiest thing in the world to do.
But to hold it together when everyone else would understand if you fell apart, that’s true strength.

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines … sail from the safe harbor … catch the trade winds in your sales. Explore. Dream. Discover. – Mark Twain