7 Things I’m Thankful For

Wheeeeeee! It’s almost Thanksgiving!!

Since it’s the day before Thanksgiving and all, I thought I’d join the cool kids and spout off some things I’m thankful for. I’m going to try not to get too heavy on you here, but there’s no guarantee.

7 Things I’m Thankful For

I’m so thankful for my health. I’ve been through hell and back several times this year with different running injuries. I’m truly amazed and inspired by what the human body is able to do. It carried me for months throughout marathon training, and then just about shut down during my big race. But then miraculously healed itself and I was off and running for the rest of the summer — feeling as fit and as strong as ever. I ran stellar races after my IT band debacle, and I’m so grateful I was able to do that. I’m thankful I didn’t sustain a more serious stress reaction and that it didn’t progress into a true fracture. I lamented being sidelined (again) but here I am running once more. The human body: an amazing, amazing thing. Treasure it always, friends.

Couldn’t walk. Bloody toes. Wanted to die. But I made it!

I’m humbled by and thankful for the fantastic people I’ve met (and reconnected with) throughout 2015, both in the running community and in “real” life. (Like there is any other life besides running? Ha!) But seriously. I’ve met some phenomenal people. Race organizers, fellow runners, coaches, even parents from my son’s new school. Each person brings their own flare to this world, and it’s been a pleasure interacting with and getting to know all of them. Some of these wonderful people, I’m happy to say, have become friends over the last year.

I’m thankful for all the opportunities I’ve been afforded over the course of 2015. I’ve been given the opportunity to run numerous races, partner with amazing brands, and work with top notch talent over the last year, as well as be coached by one of the best. Because of these opportunities, I was able to achieve great milestones including a huge half marathon PR. It’s been a remarkable journey.

I’m, of course, thankful for my family. ‘Nuff said. (Love you, guys!!)

I’m incredibly thankful for our new home. We’ve only been here a few short months but it feels like we’ve always belonged. It was meant to be. We are surrounded by nature, have lovely neighbors, and my kids now have more room to grow as individuals and as siblings.

I’m thankful for the never ending fall we’re experiencing. It’s amazing! The sun has been shining, it’s been warm enough for a light jacket most days, and I can still run outside without fear of being trampled by oncoming snowplows! It’s a glorious thing.

My clients. I’m so, so thankful for my clients. Not only have they helped me grow as a coach, but also as an individual. I loved every minute of training with my 5K girls, and I so looked forward to all the training emails from my half marathoner. I can’t wait for one of my other clients to pick a race so we can begin training in earnest for her comeback race! And I’m very much looking forward to training with future clients.

(Shameless plug: look for my new training programs coming soon. If you’ve got a spring half or full marathon and are looking for a coach, I’ve got awesome packages you may be interested in! Stay tuned for more.)

I think I covered everything. The big stuff, at least. Of course I’m thankful for that and a whole lot more. I count my lucky stars more than I should. But I don’t take anything for granted anymore.

Speaking of taking things for granted, here’s another shameless plug: Track Friday, y’all! This is my last chance to really post about Track Friday before everyone forgets about it on Thursday. If you haven’t done so already, check out this link, this one, and then this one. And if you’re in Cleveland, hopefully I’ll see you on Friday.