Let the training begin

       This weekend I convinced myself to start training for a half marathon again. I have been a bit afraid of running long distances ever since I became in ill and required a cholecystectomy. Despite hesitation, I have been slowly getting back into running for the past month or so, and now I think I have just enough confidence to register for a race. 

   

    For the past couple of years, I've seen fliers for "Race for a Soldier," which is held in my hometown. My dad mentioned to me awhile ago that he might participate in it this year.

     So, to the point: my dad, Craig and I will be running in Race for a Soldier. I was glad to learn that proceeds for the race go to local programs that support soldiers returning from service by providing alternative therapies for PTSD. Because of this, I was completely okay with paying the entrance fee. 

    When I was talking to Craig about signing up he said "Can we afford that?" because we have been talking a lot recently about budgeting our money.

     I responded, "But it's donating money! And you love donating money!" which is definitely true because he recently told me recently he wanted to make a donation of $8,000 to charity if his salary increased. And I was the bad guy who told him that we, as graduate students, really shouldn't donate that amount of money. 

     So his response to me about race registration: "I was told by you not to donate my money!" 

    Joking aside, we  both registered and were sent a fundraising link. It's a bit out of my comfort zone to ask people for money, but I figured the cause is worth making a shameless plug. If you would like to donate money to local non-profits, click here!

     It looks like an awesome race! Here is a link for anyone interested in participating.

    My training has officially begun. I ran 6 miles this morning. The trail took me right past a couple of farms and a community garden. 

Local farm located along the running trail

The community garden. I was impressed by the hand-constructed greenhouse! 

     I started the run at 8:00 am, and it was already almost 70 degree out. I need to start waking up earlier for long runs, cause I was definitely overheated and dying for water towards the end. 

     Now I'm planning to spend the rest of the day relaxing and reveling in my independence. Happy fourth of July!