>Clear-minded goals

>So, before the marathon, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to keep training and racing marathons, or just have this be a one-time thing and become a more casual runner.

Let’s just say that the thought of never running another marathon again is just craziness! Like I said, all throughout the race I never thought, Oh, I’m never doing this again. My recovery is going very well. I got a massage last night and besides a little soreness, I feel almost 100% today!

Now, post-race and during recovery, I’m already planning new goals and races. When we move, we will be less than 20 miles from New Mexico. Our location will have amazing new opportunities for hiking and seeing the country. The Southwest has to be my favorite region thus far.

We (my husband and I) are looking at a half marathon in Las Cruces, New Mexico, in December of this year. That’s 13.1 miles at 4,000 ft elevation. I have to learn to run at that altitude. I think my goal will be a sub-2:00 race, which will make my pace 9:09. Right now I can run 3 miles with a pace of 9:00, and 8 with a 9:37 pace. Maybe this new goal is slightly ambitious, but it will keep me committed to my training.

I bought a swim cap with a gift certificate from BondiBand, so hopefully that will encourage me to start swimming on a regular basis. I can swim, but I can’t guarantee that I have the correct form. Hmm.. maybe I should take lessons..?

On a slightly different note, we leave for Texas in approximately two months. I cannot believe the time is almost here! In less time than that, Aaron will be back stateside. This has been such a long journey, but I believe that everything happens for a reason and that there is a divine opportunity in all life changes.

I am continuing to pray for opportunities for friendship and ministry and peace of mind about moving so far away. This is an exciting time and I don’t want to take anything for granted.