13.1 miles = COMPLETED!

So, Today was the BIG day. I've been training with Courtney, Tiffany and Dia for 4 months now in order to be prepared for this 1/2 MARATHON. I'm not going to lie, it was hard but so worth it! My legs are KILLING me now. [just a few hours later]

I finished in 2 hours and 34 minutes. Hey! I just wanted to finish! :)

This is me and my new friend Dave

 [He's 'our' guy. :) We met him at the beginning of the race. 

He and I ran together for a good half. He is awesome!]

 This is at the finish line... I thought I was going to die!

See! We stayed together! :) 

Its funny, because a lot of these pictures look like Im walking... I wasnt. :) I ran the whole thing. [Slow... but running]

And here is Tiffany and Courtney... they are awesome!!!

Me and my boo at the end! He is such a great supporter! He was more proud of my medal than I was... as you can see here. :)

Thank you everyone for all the support... it is much appreciated!

And thanks to Michaels parents and brother who traveled up here to watch and cheer me on!  

Oh! and if you ever get the chance to help or just go to any kind of race... do it! Its soooo nice having people cheering you on [even if you don't know them.]

Hold Him Close

A couple weeks ago at

  Midtown Community Church 

the floor was open for people to share where and how Christ is moving through them. This resulted in us (the church) to pray for them. A few people shared their stories... tired, worn out, busy... you know, things that get to a lot of us. 

Then I heard a story about one ladies life. She and her husband were currently going through a divorce. My heart literally sank to the floor. (Obviously, she is hurting way more than I did in that moment) But my heart was so heavy for her. I began crying... for her and for myself. They are both Christians and have been married for over 15 years and now this is happening.  They have been married for a lot longer than Michael and my 2 year marriage (August 8th). All I could think about is "People change." That can be super scary or super exciting! 

Someone once told me that in a marriage you as a couple are never in one place together. You are either moving together or moving apart. There is NO being stagnant together. I know I was supposed to be there in that moment to hear those heart wrenching words from this broken and fragile woman. 

Now I know nether Michael nor I am perfect... by any means! But I did learn something. I learned that I need to Hold Michael Close. Love him and treat him well. Treat him like I LOVE him.... because I DO! 

Why am I sharing this? Because this made me rethink about the way I treat loved ones...especially my HUSBAND. My prayer is that more people (including myself) would love without restraints and to show Grace to those we love. 

Marriage is work... and if you're not working at it at some point... then most likely you are moving apart. I dont want that for my marriage. And I know Christ doesn't want that for any marriage either. 

So.... Michael, I LOVE YOU!