The final week...

Most of you know that I have been training the past 12 weeks for a half marathon. I must admit that I am SO excited for it to get here. It has been one of the best personal journeys of my entire life. This post is to simply document why I decided to run a half marathon. As I sat in Relief Society today and listened to the lesson on writing in your journal. I realized I haven't even documented this journey. This decision started exactly 1 year and two months ago. I was pregnant with my third baby and suffering from some complications from being pregnant that I didn't relize would eventually push me to the point of pre-term labor. On April 11th, 2009 around 10pm I was sent to Alta View Hospital where I was then 31 weeks pregnant and dialated to a 4. My body wanted to have this baby but because of much prayer, a preisthood blessing and a wonderful doctor all things happened just as they should. Me delivering a healthy baby boy at 38 weeks. This is when the "half marathon" journey begins. It was probably around bed rest week 5 or 6 when I realize this isn't going to change for a few more weeks. I was literally glued to the recliner, more comfortable than not sitting in it, but incredibly tired of sitting and relaxing in it. Not to mention I entered this pregnancy, running and being fit hoping to reach my personal "weight loss" goals. So being put on bed rest was a shock and a slight disappointment. I must admit that Tuesday night on bed rest were my favorite...why you ask because of one show. The Biggest Loser. Yes, I love this show. I have watched nearly all seasons except for one or two. I still LOVE it. But this is when I was overcomed with emotions. Watching these amazing people turn from people like me, sitting on the couch (me due to bedrest, them due to choices) but going and running a marathon. Yes, I was inspired. I was completely motivated to the point it burned in my soul. That night I said, "If they can do this so can I!!" So with that in mind I delivered this baby and started working my way back to being me, one day at a time. So as I sat on this idea for several months I began getting that little fire or voice within me say, "Now is the time..." So I turned to my dearest friends who I feel support me with all my wild wishes! And I convinced them to join in the experience. We have encouraged each other in so many ways, than just running. I am so appreciative to them for their continued support and friendship. Those long Saturday runs on 11800 South wouldn't be the same with out everyone. So because of this one experience I had and convinced my friends to join me we have a great group finishing this journey on Saturday. There is Emily, Amanda, Andrea, Amber, Camille and Krista. (I hope I'm not leaving anyone else out!) But here's to the women running this journey with me. As I have shared on previous early morning runs. I have had many "tender" moments of loving these dear friends. We truly inspire one another to grow and achieve goals. Thanks for being my "train" and letting me be your caboose and "pushing" you all to the finish line! Here's to the last week of running and as the ad says, "PAIN YOU ENJOY!" I have enjoyed the pain so far and I hope to enjoy and finish the journey on Saturday! Until then here's to an easy week of running, resting, and eating some good carbs! GOOD LUCK HERRIMAN RUNNING GIRLS!

(Here's to a sneak peak at the offical finish line! We drove down last night to see the actual route...we wanted a picture incase we never make it to the finish line!!)