A Couple Firsts and a Second

Last week I completed my first week back in the classroom since having the boys. I am teaching art at a brand new charter school in the area so it was both my first week and the school's first week which was quite exciting. Although thrilled to be back in the classroom, everyday was like a marathon. Between being on a cart and working through the logistics of a new school, I learned a lot daily. I left each afternoon thinking of ways to make the next day better. I woke each night visualizing different projects, better cart prep and creative storage options. Both my mind and body seemed to be going nonstop. By Friday, I had nothing left. I was reminded of something my husband used to say about doing Ironman races. He started doing triathlons and Ironman races before they were household names. People thought he was a bit crazy. He always said that doing an Ironman was a lot easier than a day of work in his line of business. That same thought went through my mind several times last week. Yep, you heard me. Swimming, biking and running a total of 140.6 miles may be easier than teaching kindergarteners!

As exhausted as I was, I was looking forward to my second race. I rallied and gave it all I had in that moment. Thankfully, it was the Downhill 5k. Although not all downhill, there was enough to keep my momentum going. My sweet friend and I kept a good pace for two tired moms and enjoyed the run in the cool crisp air, knowing that this would be the easiest time of our day.  It was a fast, family friendly race and a Peachtree qualifier so a good one to remember for next year. The race is point to point instead of a loop and there is a nice walk back to the start, which has a steep hill at the end (I knew we eventually had to go uphill). All in all, it was a great second race and my mind and body were refueled.

First of Forty

My first race is under my belt and it was inspiring. Not only was it my first of forty but it was my first trail race ever. I absolutely loved it! I was not the fastest or the fittest but I think my heart was the fullest. 

 

It started at Red Top Mountain State Park on Lake Allatoona. Another first as I've never been there and was amazed by it's natural beauty and super close proximity to the city. The race was sold out and parking was limited so I got there early.The summer air was cool and crisp, just perfect for running. I decided to run without all of the gadgets; no watch, no heart rate monitor, no iPod or iPhone. I wanted to be in the moment and enjoy the sounds of nature and the rhythm of my steps. In that moment I was filled with an abundance of peace. The trail was my sanctuary and all of the hustle and bustle of life was nonexistent, a perfect way to start the year.

Officially Forty

I'm excited to celebrate my birthday this year. Even though I'm officially 40, I feel a surge of energy. Is it because I'm over the hill? Have I been climbing up hill the last few years and now gaining momentum as I start to roll down? If that's the case, it's all down hill from here, right?

It's a busy day with school and work but we'll make time to celebrate. My boys and I are painting a canvas together, a new birthday tradition. I'll have a big unveiling when we're done.

My soles got new running shoes, very fitting. They will get quite a workout this year as I embark on my 40 races.

And it wouldn't be a birthday celebration without cake, and boy does my family love cake!

My 8th birthday - when parties were simple, cakes were homemade and school started after Labor Day.