STRONG IDEA: In it for the Long Haul
By Emily Stapleton on November 13, 2013 from Strong Ideas
May 2003 - Flying Pig Marathon
September 2004 - Baby 1 born
January 2006 - P.F. Chang's Rock and Roll Marathon
December 2006 - St. Jude's Marathon
June 2008 - Baby 2 born
October 2009 - Baby 3 born
November 2013 - Marshall University Marathon
- In 2002 and 2004, while I did work full time, I had lots of time available to run…so I did just that. I sometimes logged 60 miles per week running 5 or 6 days per week.
- In 2013, my time is more limited. During my training, I worked up to 35 miles in my peak week and never ran more than 3 days per week.
- In 2002, I did things like take an ice bath after my long runs.
- In 2013, I did things like take the kids to the pumpkin patch after my long runs.
- In 2002, many of the miles I ran were “junk” miles. In other words, I was just out hitting the pavement to get the miles in. I was focused on running; it took over most aspects of my life.
- In 2013, none of my training miles were “junk” miles. Each workout had a specific goal: a long run, a speed session, and a run/strength workout. I didn’t have time to let running take over my life, so I wasn’t as focused on my training. Instead, my training was extremely focused.
- In 2002, I lived my life for myself.
- In 2013, I live my life to set an example for my children. I loved having them see me complete the marathon. I also loved them being witness to the hard work and dedication it takes to prepare…but still stay focused on the rest of life’s responsibilities.
- In 2002, I had the complete support of my husband, which meant he was my biggest cheerleader and my support crew. He drove me to the start of the race and cheered as I crossed the start line. He met me at several points throughout the race and delivered water and food as I wanted them. He met me at the finish line with flip-flops and a change of clothes.
- In 2013, I had the complete support of my husband. No longer can he deliver me to the start line or deliver flip-flops to the finish; he’s needed for a much more important job. This time I headed to the start line in the wee hours of the morning on my own, leaving him behind to wake, dress and feed our three kids; then bring them to several points on the course for the much needed high fives. This time, at the finish line, he brought with him three additional cheerleaders…and that’s so much better than flip-flops.
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