4-15-2013

I'm saddened, shocked, angry. Today's tragedy in Boston, has deeply put a mark in my heart. While I could only dream of qualifying for this marathon, I am an avid runner spectator, I soooo look forward to this annual event (since I started running), no one was expecting what took place. I'm thankful that some runners that I know, participants in the race are ok, I can't imagine their emotional estate, like many I can't understand how "humanity" and respect for life is fading; while I agree, there is more good than evil, I can't ignore how unfair someone's choices can scar us forever. Today, I thought no one would show to do track, I even texted my co-leader Miriam, but she was on her way, my heart lit up, when I saw more runners getting to the parking lot, Keith, Holly with their two girls, then Lindsey, Brandi, Eric and Lenore, and Warren.... We all knew about Boston, but there's something about runners... we also knew that there are no words to express our sadness, no words were needed, no words were appropriate, nothing can fix what was broken. A marathon is a special kind of run, not many can accomplish, endure, the very disciplined training, it takes 26.2 miles to cross that finish line, at least 3 months of strict diet, and well appointed dedicated training. Boston is special, is the mother of the marathons, not just anyone qualifies for it, those runners are fast! They come from all over the world to run 26.2 miles, today was a nightmare, a worldwide attack that took place in our country. It is unavoidable to hear about it, it hurts my heart to think that what took place today, could have been avoided. I know is extremely sad, but we need to let it sink deep, we need to see that this madness has to stop, that those whom lost their lives.... Won't be forgotten, it is traumatic, the world needs to tender their hearts, we need to come back to Love! We runners won't be stopped, by the incoherence of some, we runners stand united, and will run farther to show that there is hope, that we are made with strength, that when we run, we give it all. Prayers of strength and comfort to the families who lost their loved ones, and to those that are still battling for their lives.

3 years later...

It was 2010 when I signed up for my very first 5K, 2 weeks from today trinrun will celebrate their 7th Annual Run in the Garden 5K. I now can call myself a "seasoned" runner, this time I wont' have the "worries" of a newbie (nothing wrong with that) Here's a list of the things that went through my mind, as I "understood" I had just signed up, for my first 5k, with no experience, with no training!: 1. What did I just do? (after clicking confirm registration ) 2. What am I going to wear ( easy... get comfy running shorts, wicking shirt, good socks (stay away from cotton), and last, but not least get the right shoes, this last one... is a big one! even for a short distance as a 5K you can do some very uncomfortable/hurtful damage to your feet, get fit by a professional, by the way, running shoes are supposed to be at least 1/2 inch big, allowing room for expansion) 3. I just don't want to throw up. Not during the race, not at the finish line! (I didn't and was so proud of myself for not having that feel, until I got close to the Finish, and saw a "spill" another runner had left. It does happen, but chances of throwing up, are seldom, specially when you are going "slow" faster runners, giving it all, are the ones that... really leave "it" all at the race!) My take? watch what you eat, not just the day before, but specially the week before the race. If you are not a morning eater, don't worry, you will be fine, just make sure you are hydrating during the week, and if you feel that you want to get some water at the water stops.... do it! Always listen to your body. Just so you all know... I made it! you can too! Sign up! at the store or online and please come say hi Saturday April 20th 3 years later, this race holds a very special place in my heart, and I will keep recommending it as a first for anyone, with the desire of becoming a runner. A last note: Ideally you want to train for any race, this 5k is open to runners, walkers, joggers, everyone! so, if you are curious, just come out and walk the distance; or do what I did, "jog" along, you will finish! Every first time is a Personal Record :) It took me 34 Minutes and 39 sweet seconds to finish my first 3.1 Miles. Runner mom. Here is a pic of my first running bib and mug (I was so lucky they were giving out mugs that year, now I'm addicted to shirts, and their shirts are awesome!)