Another amazing weekend

Ever have those weekends where you look back and you wonder how in the world the Lord allowed all that had happened to actually happen? He is a pretty amazing God. Providing just what you need, when you need it (even when we don't ask). In a flurry of activity, my parents arrived as the kids and I were walking home from school on Friday, gave all the "instructions", ran to pick up a flowers sale order from the school, to get back just in time to take our son to a friend's (who so kindly gave him a lift to his baseball game), to hurry home to quickly pack and take off for Indianapolis. Aaron and I enjoyed a great car ride, some dinner, and with some traffic issues, we arrived at a friends home at 10:00 pm that evening.

Aaron has a friend whom he has met through the fascinating world of blogging (aka God connecting people who you would otherwise never meet). Not only did Matt and his wife Candance, welcome us into their home, they too experienced the race with us. We rode together to Matt's place of employment downtown where we used wonderful restroom facilities and a warm place to stretch. The starting line was only a five minute walk. It was a windy morning, but the weather could not have been more perfect for running - cool, a breeze when you needed it, no rain.

So, at 7:30 am, the four of us, along with 40,000 other crazies took off to endure 13.1 miles of running pleasure. Let me tell you, there is nothing like running the race of life "with" someone. Yes, we were surrounded by thousands of others, but I was "known" by 3. The Lord took Aaron on a slightly different mission this race, we separated around mile 4, and He had me run with Candance. What a gift to enjoy the same pace, to check in with one another, encourage her as the miles came and went, and to watch her smile as she achieved her goal time. Only God can open hearts and lift legs to reach goals and distances that the mind cannot conceive.

1 Corinthians 2:9
However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him" —

Aaron finished right with us, with a smile on his face and a story on his heart. Thank you Lord for the most memorable, enjoyable race in the whirlwind of our "3 in 3" weekend montage. It's such a joy to just be able to run, to run simply in obedience, and to be thankful for all the blessings along the way. This coming Saturday, I'll be able to enjoy yet one more run with some great girlfriends as we support the Race for the Cure - can't think of a better way to celebrate in the gift of running and friendship.

Well, the rest of the weekend flew by in true Conrad style. We hurried home after the race to make it to our son's baseball tournament, endured the wind, rain, and cool temperatures in joy of cheering on the team to victory. We enjoyed a great family meal and finished off the evening with a movie (a few parts we missed, Aaron called us bobble-heads).

Sunday morning we awoke at 6:30 with a call for a 7:30 baseball game - yep, Happy Mother's Day. I sent the boys out the door as the girls as I got ready for church. What a fabulous morning! I'll be posting sermon notes next, just some great stuff - moms were honored, babies were dedicated, lessons were received. All the while, I could communicate with the "boys" via texting. They were doing well, so with a quick change of clothes, and a bag of goodies packed, we were out the door again (after a swing through the drive through :) The tournament ended well for them, and we traveled home to enjoy some downtime. While the family rested via the Cavs game, I had a wonderful opportunity to head over to my little sister's. She and her husband are just so thrilled with the purchase of their first home. It was a great opportunity to visit as we painted her beautiful bedroom. The evening was capped off with a lovely dinner, compliments of Red Robin. The whole gang gathered, all 16 of us, and my mother couldn't have glowed more.

Happy Belated Mother's Day to you! A special note of compassion and understanding to those celebrating the memory of your mother. As this was Aaron's first year in a memory celebration, my heart goes out to you as well. We're all here simply because of the love and labor of our moms. Perfect we are not, yet loved so much by our creator that He would sent His son to make a way to spend eternity together. Have a wonderful day in Him!

A Run in the Sun

"Blue skies, shining on me, nothin but blue skies, do I see..." Yep, blue skies, palm trees, and mountains, doesn't get much better. What a blessing to share the weekend with my best friend and the fabulous Plant family who graciously welcomed us to the state of Arizona! Lots of memories, smooth travel, amazing sites, we serve a gracious God!
Here's a few moments that marked this race:

1. Watching ASU swimmers get ready for an outdoor meet at 6:45 am. - way cool!

2. People watching as we waited in the downtown park - 2 Elvises, 1 banana-man, several tu-tu skirts, 1 man wearing an inflatable turkey outfit, yes runners are unique.

3. John McCain gave us the thumbs up as we crossed the "starting line".

4. Around mile 1, Aaron says, "Wanna swing through McDonalds?"

5. Mile 2, a woman held a dry-erase board that said, "Run fast while you can still feel your legs!"

6. Crowded streets as we jumped up on the sidewalk a few times.

7. Hitting a fast pace at mile 4, not quite seeing that number again the rest of the race :)

8. A band played for us at every mile. One couple pulled off and danced together, then ran ahead of us each time.

9. Running through a "Rock Star" tunnel, over bridges, down the strip, all the while viewing mountains straight ahead.

10. Holding hands with my life-partner as we were able to cross-yet another finish line, thankful for the son-shine.

As we reminisced about memories on our flight home, we glanced out our window as we neared Columbus, viewing the "sea of clouds" from above. It was as if we were viewing a sunset, and what a marvelous site it was, from above the clouds, there was no darkness. In thinking of the moments that would soon pass, as we would be traveling underneath the clouds and darkness would come, the memories of the light still shone bright, will we chose to remember? We saw evidence, it is there. Soon too, Columbus will experience the promise of spring, for now, we wait.

As my wise husband shared with me this evening, life brings with it many choices. How we view life, how we choose to "see" it will determine the attitude of the run, the journey, the course. Will we choose to see the rocks, the gravel, the cracks on the ground? Will we choose to focus on a "time" and miss the sights? Will we stop for a moment and dance? This race left me with a choice around mile 5. My mind wanted to reach a goal my body just could not achieve that day. Would I push forward in determination, would I be able to sacrifice my "goal" to allow the enjoyment of the sight and sounds to be caught? What was more important today?

As in life, numbers will be forgotten, metals will rot away, but the sight of the colors of earth, the sound of echoing cheers, and the feel of my husband's hand in mine will last for eternity. Thank you God for helping me to "see".... I love you Aaron.

Grateful

I woke up this morning, with a strange sensation. Ever have one of those nights experiencing weird dreams? I seem to be experiencing several lately, yet last night's dream was very unique. I don't recall too many details since that first awakened moment, but I do remember watching people. I remember sensing the moment as one of people partaking in a religious ceremony of some sorts. I can tell you about the empty, blank looks on the faces of each person. I watched as they went through the motions of this ceremony of sorts, and left with that same hollow look. People kept entering and leaving, all with lifeless body language. It was at that moment I awoke and my mind's thoughts went right to Jesus, "I am so grateful to have you Jesus." My emotions were so stirred that I experienced tears. Tears that could only express what my words could not. No coincidence it's Christmas Eve morning. Thank you Jesus for some precious moments this morning before my mind was even fully awake. You complete me.

After more reflection, I could have a gratitude list a mile long this morning, but of all the things to list today, I am most grateful to hear the voices of two sweet girls and one grown up man coming from the basement. They are interacting while they play "restaurant". The voices belong to our daughters and their Papa. Aaron's parents arrived from Houston last night, and we couldn't be more grateful. Family, as imperfect as we all are, somehow means just that much more on Christmas.

Jesus, I do want to thank you for one other moment I just experienced today. As cinnimon rolls were baking in the oven, I laced up my shoes to spend a few more moments with you. As my legs were burning, yet my soul filled with joy, I am overwhelmed with answered prayer. Just as I uttered my confession to you as I made my bed, asking to guard my heart, my words, and my attitude, you spoke forth in kindness to my husband and encouragement in a disappointing situation.

Lord, you fill me completely, and that is where I want to reside. My physical limitations pulled me off course yesterday, yet you actualy welcome my thoughts and allow me to leave them with you. As a result, my heart is open and ready to hear from you, walk with you, and even run with you as my flesh wants what it wants. As the train was passing on the tracks this morning, I anticipated waiting for it to leave, stopping my run, yet my body kept moving forward at a quick pace. I remember uttering, "Lord I trust in your plan," and I watched as I approached it, closer and closer - 8 yards, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, train passes, 2 arms go up, 1, and through I go never needing to break my stride. THAT is all you Lord. I see you all around. I am forever, eternally grateful.

What is your excuse?

Today was one of those mornings. As I rose from bed at 6:30 am, on a Saturday, my thoughts went something like this, "You are crazy. Who would choose to be doing this, when it looks like that outside?" My body responded to this thought by simply moving forward. I got dressed, stretched, laced up my shoes, and headed out the door. What in your life has become part of your life by simple routine? Perhaps your body screams for more sleep and a warm bed, but your rational, and perhaps, determined thoughts, convince you otherwise? For many of us, when it comes to taking care of our bodies, perhaps in the area of exercise, we find ourselves easily swayed to follow the excuses our minds convince us of. At what point is it the "right" time? Dare I say that time may be today?

My lesson for today - my loss is His gain. If I look at what my loss might have been this morning (loss of sleep, ease of any pain, my 'right' to skip a training day because I feel like it), it seems like a minute sacrifice as to what I gained, or became blessed with. The apostle Paul said it best,

Philippians 3:8
What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ.

For me, I have pledged to be faithful in this way, to commit to Him my obedience in "training" to run the race for Him. For me, this means for the long-haul. Until otherwise notified, I will run for him. The blessings and benefits from this are simply too long to list. What was "fresh" to be this morning, was simply the joy of running. I haven't 'felt' this for a few weeks, so I appreciated several aspects of this. It confirmed again the simple awe of being able to run, to see his creation in such a fresh way as the trees donned a white coat and snowflakes fell on my lashes, I was able to complete the daunting task of finishing an 11 mile run in the darkness of the morning, and I ran with no pain. I returned full of joy, patience, and grace that only comes from Him ready to tackle the day, even a morning full of cookie baking.

What is the ultimate privilege here? To simply be a servant of His. My family and I have experienced the amazing privilege of serving though a ministry called The Manger this week. This ministry gave us the opportunity, as a family, to be the hands of feet of Christ, an outward extension of Him as we greeted, shopped with, wrapped presents, and prayed with beautiful families experiencing a time a financial strain. Hearts were opened, lives were changed this week as they welcomed Christ into their broken hearts. There were many excuses not to go, several other 'good' activities could have replaced our time at the Manger. Not that we have it all figured it out, or can perfectly discern God's best in all situations, but we have readied our hearts to be flexible and obedient to His plan. The results? We left more blessed than any blessing we could have given. When asked at the dinner table if they wanted to serve again for the third time this past week, the kids spoke was a unanimous "yes". I cringe to think about the possibility that we could have missed out.

In looking at my Bible Study questions earlier, these passages simply touched a new place in my heart, affirming and confirming his personal touch today in "that God works all things for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

2 Corinthians 1:4-6

⁴who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. ⁵For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. ⁶If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

¹⁶Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. ¹⁷For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. ¹⁸So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 12:9

⁹But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

What is your excuse today? Who's voice are you listening to? What might you be missing out on? Sometimes it requires us to simply do the next thing. Perhaps it might take one simple act. Will you tie up your laces today?

A morning in Charlotte...

The graph you see above? As labeled, this is an elevation map. Aaron and I arrived at the Convention Center in Charlotte, NC last Friday night, preparing to pick up our race packets for the half-marathon race and immediately saw a T-shirt with this picture and this caption - FLAT IS FOR SISSIES. Enough said.

Yep, we're taking a whirl-wind tour of sorts - 5 races in 6 months. Some have asked me how I talked my husband into this, and I simply say, "On the contrary, it's the other way around." I am SO proud of Aaron, so thankful that the Lord has allowed us to travel this journey together, and has even brought about one of my heart's desires - to travel and "see", and that we are. Next month we fly to Phoenix, April we'll be in Nashville, May we land at the Indy 500 track, and perhaps even a re-show here in Columbus. As with anything else the Lord calls you to follow and obey, he provides it all. This would not be possible without the amazing hearts of our parents, friends, and even our live-in "teenager". I can't help but think that you might be wondering about a God-sized task in your own life. Take it from one who has a tendency to doubt and fear - the journey is completely worth it. It takes risk to trust, but the freedom that comes in knowing that the Lord's plan wins every time keeps me coming back for more - every time.

Memories of the race:

1. Waking up at 5:30 am, excited in anticipation of what the Lord had in store (no, I usually don't wake up at 5:30, let alone be excited about it.)

2. When packing, high priority - shoes, IPOD; no priority - ALL my bathrooms items. Luckily, it was a pony tail occasion and no make-up required.

3. Waiting in a warm hotel lobby, talking "race memories" with other fellow crazies before race time.

4. People - standing next to "Santa" pre-race time, getting passed by not 1, not 2, but 3 elves complete with jingle bells, a dog that barked from his porch in support, a man that yelled to the crowd, "Hey, my name is Joe, cheer for me!"

5. Signs - Breathe (I know I saw this same sign twice, just when I needed it), God 'heart' you (gave me goose bumps), a runner's shirt read, "Cheer for me, I'm getting married today."

6. I remember being separated from Aaron at a water stop, surrounded by people, and feeling as though a large part of me was missing.

7. Enjoying the downhills, preparing for the uphills.

8. Counting down the miles one by one, exciting to be nearing the finish, yet sad that it had come and gone so quickly.

9. Remembering the feeling of Aaron's hand in mine as we crossed the finish, blessed with an amazing time - 1:53.

Lord, I remember feeling disappointed at the start of the race. My body was feeling weak. I really wanted to be strong. Yet, Lord I remember telling you that I trusted in your plan for today. If this was your plan, I say again, I trust you. For I am learning, again, that in my weakness you are strong. I will take joy in this race today, thankful for the sheer ability to complete it. It's by no coincidence that I wore a shirt that stated, "I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11) I love you Jesus.

The Flying Feather

Another fabulous morning, another fabulous run. This year, we had the extreme pleasure of ropin some friends in to join us for their "first-ever" race. Friends Richard and Heidi came over bright and early, bringing along their teenager who so kindly hung out with the kids this morning. Our guest from Estonia joined us as well, calling family back home to share a play-by-play. We also met another friend there who also had invited some friends, some co-workers to join in a run before the turkey! I just love reflecting on God's ultimate plan in who He brings into our lives along life's journey. My favorite line of the morning was spoken by Richard after we completed the race and began walking back - Let's do that again! Another one catches the craziness!

I have so many things to be thankful for today, so here are just a few:

1. To share this journey with my best friend and life partner - love you Aaron!
2. To actually experience the blessing of physical strength brought about by His training and faithfulness to endure.
3. The opportunity to return home to warmth, food, and celebration with friends, old and new.
4. That my Lord has given me the ultimate gift in his son Jesus Christ, my Savior, the one who saves me from myself and my sin, and loves me enough to give me an eternal home with Him.
5. The privilege, responsibility, and command to share the good news of this gift with others.

Lord, you never cease to amaze me. In simply following Aaron's lead in choosing to wear a simple t-shirt, you allowed an opportunity to be available to a woman and her husband to approach us about a church home, your church home. What an honor to serve you today in such a seemly small way, yet perhaps a life-changing way for a family. Thank you for reminding me that you just ask us to come to you, to use what we have (be it 2 fish and 5 loaves of bread), and you alone take that and multiply it for your kingdom. Lord, today I chose in gratitude and thankfulness to see all that I "have" as a gift from you. I am one blessed girl. Happy Thanksgiving!

Comedy of Errors

Aaron and I set out for a “long” run this past Saturday. We locked and load our i-pods for 12 miles, geared up, and hit the streets to a bright blue sky, and crisp cool air. Aaron has been favoring his ankle, but with some new kicks, he’s ready to go. We somewhat cruised the first few, then it hit us. He called it the running wounded. Not sure what’s up with my hips lately, but they’re feeling every single stretch of the stride and wanting to hold back. Somehow the fight to endure wins over, and you simply keep moving. We stopped for a short rest break, check my phone, removed my jacket, and forward we pressed on.

I remember running by the same group of 3 older gentlemen, in a sign of comradery, we gave the patented wave-and nod-fly-by. We rounded the corner onto Avery, and somehow I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it. My energy level dropped significantly. Aaron’s phrase - the wheels were coming off. Though slower, my mind was at peace with simply the ability to finish. “Two more lefts,” Aaron said, and I set my sites. As we ran the upward climb on Cemetery, we reached a section of sidewalk where tree roots have won the battle over the cement blocks. My eyes were not watchful, and before I could blink, I was groaning at the thought I was soon to hit the pavement as my foot never cleared the uneven section. Definitely not graceful, but the least damage yet in my several flops and bad falls. Only a few minor abrasions on my palms, no torn pants, no tears at my knees, and an i-pod that was intact. More out of shock, I quickly brushed myself off and wanted to keep going. We survived the lights, down the hill and rounded the last turn onto Britton Parkway.

With legs burning at this point, it’s simply a fight to the finish. With about 1/2 mile to go, I saw Aaron swatting at the air. In the next moment - a fly - right into my left eye! So gross! I attempted to dislodge it, then looked at my muddy hands and knew it would have to wait - of course! This fueled my fire. If Satan was now sending flies, all the more reason to prove this battle will be won! We did finish. We did hobble/walk home. We will live to run another day. Lord, thank you for providing your strength once again. May I continue to honor you through my commitment and faithfulness to obey. You are worth it Lord, and the battle is yours.

He gave me silence...

In looking at my schedule this week, I realized the only "time slot" left for running on this Wednesday was the "early morning" shift. At times I wake up before the alarm sounds... not so much this morning. Let's just say it was an effort to get up. In fighting a sinus infection, my body was screaming at me to quit being crazy, to be sensible, luckily, stubbornness won the battle. As I headed downstairs, I grabbed my IPOD... no bars - yikes! I forgot to charge it, well... I'll just borrow my old one. Plugged her in and off I went.Wasn't long before... red bars turned to no bars. Okay Lord, I hear ya. I've been doin a lot of yapping lately, I think it's time I need to be quiet and listen.

Thank you for the lesson Jesus (gulp!) I realized how my prayer life has been suffering lately. Sure I dialogue, sure prayers happen with the kids in the morning, meals, and night time, but when was the last time my heart tuned into Him alone, to others? I needed this morning. So thankful for his ever-listening ears, that He answers my prayers, for perspective and sight, for the opportunity to pray for "not-my-words-but thine" Lord. You changed my day today Jesus, and I thank you.

By the way, just noticed this is the 100th post to date. Amazing Lord. This from a girl who despised writing growing up, I'm talking a fear of red pens that was beyond normal. This is why all credit goes to you Lord - you alone put a new song in my mouth!

Psalm 40:3
He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.

Psalm 98:1
Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him.

Psalm 33:3
Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy.

A surprise gift

Well, as you can "see", Aaron and I hit the streets for another race yesterday on January 1st. It was his idea actually, and in fact, he even coerced his good friend Jeff to join in the cold craziness. As you can tell by Jeff's shirt, they have a "friendly" rivalry between the two of them (AAron being the HUGE NC fan that he is) as they decided to settle it once and for all on the road :)

About midway through the race, I caught a glimpse of their smiling faces and knew that this in fact was indeed a run, not necessarily a race - happy contestants to simply complete the feat and have a fun story to share.

I did want to take a brief moment and thank another man in my life who has been there for many races, be it swimming, track, cross-country, softball, soccer, or even water polo matches. A man who's voice I can pick out 100 yards away, hearing the words as clear as if he's standing next to me. A man who enjoys strategizing, guiding, coaching, participating, and loving his children in such a uinque way. A man who would bundle up and head outside on a cold windy day, just to watch his daughter and son-in-law. Father, I love you.

We've had the privilege and honor of hosting different members of my family throughout the past few days, and with that joy, I find myself reflecting tonight. There are few things in life we actually have control over, leaving many that are not. I was not given the choice of the family that would surround me, yet I was given the sheer blessing of simply carrying the family name chosen for me. Someone is hungry, someone needs a bed, someone needs a laugh, someone needs a listening ear, someone needs a hug - that's what family is for. Sometimes the word family also indicates hurt, pain, and remorse. Yep, comes along withe human territory. Yet, family is what we have been given. May we choose to honor this gift as often as we can this New Year. I gave some extra hugs and kisses tonight, and I plan on giving out tons more.

To my darling husband. Today's "run" together was such a gift to me. Those special "unplanned" times where God turns the dial on that shade of blue in the sky, and the sun seems just a bit brighter than the moment before, where the cold wind in your face does nothing more than make you smile wider, I am so thankful. Aaron, I am proud of your persistance, inspired by your pursuit of being a Godly Father, and thankful to simply bear the name of Conrad. Happy New Year!

Reflections on my run

This morning, the Lord provided me with a great opportunity. An opportunity my sweet friend Amanda reminded me about two months ago. An opportunity to wake up early, lace up my tennis shoes, and head towards a starting line, waiting for a bell to sound the start at 7:30 am. Maybe not an opportunity that sounds "great" to you, but for me, I could hardly sleep last night. You see, while my body stays in motion, I tend to hear so clearly from Him, tend to feel so close to Him, tend to pay attention and keep my eyes open for Him, that my anticipation was sky high.

We began the day with a ride from Mr. Dave and his fabulous new truck (aka, Amanda's husband). He dropped us off because this race started at one point, and finished 13.1 miles down Riverside Dr. We had a day to run along the river with several elite athletes from different countries (not that we saw them past the starting line :), with the sun shining, and the course mostly downhill (bonus!) I, however, had one new item with me today...kleenex (borrowed from a very gracious Grandma before we started). Yep, last week I came down with a nasty sinus infection/allergy attack and needed to clear the "breathing-path" along the way. Ever try blowing your nose while running? Be prepared for a mess. Enough said. My mind couldn't help but think this morning of Misty May as I watched her battle a cold in an earlier match of the Olympics. I recall an announcer saying that many athletes attest to the fact that they play better "under the weather". This is the philosophy I wanted to adopt today.

We started the race 1/2 hour later than anticipated (due to late shuttle buses), but you'll have that in an inaugural first try. It actually gave us a chance to learn about some of the top athletes through the announcer, and to "bond" with the crowd around us pre-race - so many stories, so many amazing people. Ready, set, go - and we're off. Thanks to Amanda's pre-run drive and her magic watch, we were able to track our pace as we ran those first few miles. Actually, we were thrilled with our pace, able to keep on track even as we ran straight for the entire time.

About mile 8, I started to notice how my body was reacting to the distance, and sadly recognized I needed to walk through the next water station, so I encouraged Amanda to go ahead and run her race. As I began to run again, my body was needing a different pace this time... okay. I had 5 more to go, what to do? My mind ran straight to him. After waking this morning, I was drawn to reread again from Philippians 3, starting from verse 12.

12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

These verses are ones in which I've put to memory, yet there is something about opening the Book and letting my eyes fall upon the words. I felt the Lord impress the words on me again - press on - just take that next step. He brought back to my mind some memories of training runs we traveled through together in preparation for today. He simply reminded me that my "race" on earth is not simply to the next "finish line", but actually until I draw my last breath. He splashed his encouragement all over me and around, just as with a physical sponge he provided, water splashed as I squeezed it over my head (pretty cool!) He even opened my eyes and provided companions along the way. A tall man with a red shirt caught my eye, and as I approached, we began to chat. Turns out we both grew up in the same area of Cleveland. Next thing I knew, a lady next to me joined in, a mom of teenagers, excited just to be a part of this race. Funny how those 2 miles flew by. I saw him in the faces of the many volunteers, I felt him prompting as I spoke with fellow runners, I felt his strength as he provided the endurance to continue. I'm so thankful.

My heart is just filled with thanks. Thanks, at that moment, to see the finish line and simply be able to cross it. Thanks for my amazing husband who was waiting with our three blessings to greet me. I knew in my head that I just finished running, but nothing could stop be from picking up my girls and giving them a squeeze. Thanks to Mr. Dave who hooked us up with a post-run massage - my muscles today were forever grateful. Thanks for the beautiful weather. Thanks for water. But mostly, I'm simply thankful for my Jesus, the living water, who pours forth his patience, grace, and mercy upon me daily. And not only for me, but for all those ready to receive.

Finally, I'd just like to lift up my prayers for all those in the path of Gustav. Amanda has family in New Orleans. Many have parents, siblings, grandparents, and children living there. May the Lord be glorified in all that takes place. May lives be changed in Him.

Where do you run?

Darn those hurt feelings! Have you had ones of those moments recently, maybe you read an email, received a voice message or text, maybe a conversation, or maybe just a look that sent a flaming, slicing arrow right through your skin, dead center into your heart? It happens. I just wish I could duck or dash to the side to avoid them, but often times, there isn't even time for that.

I've found myself in this position just recently, so it got me thinkin... how do I react? What is it I do with this hurt and subsequent wound? How do I handle an offense, often times those unmerited? Well, I've noticed a pattern lately, and it goes something like this...

Shock - What???
Defensive - I was just... I didn't mean... I was only...
Judgments - Did you have to say it like that... Can't you see... You know me...
Anger - That really hurt! How dare...
Bitterness - What did I do to deserve this?
Blaming - You... He... She...

Where does this leave me? Is the offender dwelling, or simply clueless that I'm sitting here stewing? What will I do? Where will I turn?

Now mind you, this is a process for me, but what I decided to do today, and yes it was a choice, was to run. I decided to put into action what I'm learning to be true. Run where you may ask? To my husband, to my mom, to my friend, to a trusted accountability partner? Perhaps, but I first decided to run to Him. I decided to sit down, stop my run-away-train mind, and focus on His word. I read, and as I read, I felt myself nodding my head. I was nodding because I was reading and be reminded of truth. My theory - focus + truth = lies dispelled. I prayed for a perspective that was His, I shifted my focus off of me. My intent was to "stop going there" with thoughts that were negative and destructive (though strangely justifiable) and to actually attempt to put into action what Philippians 4:8 talks about:

Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things.

So what happened? I received what I asked for. I saw a new perspective, I believed this perspective was good and right, I was able to work through my emotions without guilt or resentment, and I felt free of the mental anguish. Where remnants of the hurt still there? You bet, but, I was now able to "talk" about the process with the stinging emotions involved. Know what else? I quickly saw some restoration happen, all with a heart that was already free, AND without the sting of words said in anger.

So, do I have this "thing" figure out? Absolutely not, if fact, another arrow shot my way just this evening. Do I have insecurities about even typing this post? Absolutely! The phrases "running to the Lord" and "running to his Word" always seemed so super-Christian to me. Phrases only a few select could actually attain (and to be honest, they were the weirdos!) I don't know much, but this much I can say, the more I am aware of His Presence, the safer I feel. This is not some sort of escape from reality; it is tuning into ultimate reality. He is far more real that the world I can see, hear, or touch. Where will you run today?

Faith is the confirmation of things we do not see and the conviction of their reality, perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses. Hebrews 11:1 (AMP)

A run with substance

Nothing like waking up at 6:00 am on a Saturday to go "pound the pavement" for 2 1/2 hours! If you would have asked me this 2 years ago, "Heather, wanna join me for a run?" I would have answered, "You have fun with that, call me when you're done." Many times people ask me why in the world I train for marathons, and I simply answer, "Because I think it's cool watching toe nails fall off. " No, not really. I first started running because He asked me to, I'm still running today because I simply can't get enough of my time with him.

Now in case you think I have it all figured out, let me reassure you that I'm far from it. In case you think that I have this journey and the joy of running thing all figured out, let me tell you that I don't. Just this morning, I was dragging my feet. Every excuse in the book was rattling through my mind. My amazing running friend, Amanda, had a wonderful opportunity to visit a friend this weekend, so that bit of accountability made "shushing" the voices that much more difficult. But, I did get up, I did lace up, and without another thought of the excuses, off I went.

Now there have been many times along this journey where my Jesus saw fit to share some amazing things with me, and other times where he just listened to my mind race along from one topic to another. (I always say that years of life-guarding have taught me to hone my skill of "talking to myself" for hours). At times, I've seen some things about his creation I've never "seen" before, at times he's spoken to me through a song, and other times, I've simply appreciated the breeze just when I needed it. Today, I just spent time with his presence. Ever have those times with a close friend, or maybe you're spouse where you can be in the presence of each other, no words needed. I just ran in his joy this morning. Least you think running in joy means running pain free, let me tell you the pain is real and the pain is there, but somehow it's not in the forefront of your mind. It's almost as though a separation occurs. If asked, are you in pain, your body will say yes, yet there I am with a smile that cannot be wiped off.

Know what I'm talking about? Ever found yourself in a time, situation, or circumstance in your life that should have given you the "right" to hole up in your room, licking your wounds, when in fact, you are living and breathing in ways beyond your own self, your own strength. Reminds me of a favorite verse from Psalm 121,

I lift my eyes up to the hills - where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.

We have a dear friend who is in the hospital at the moment, withstanding an amazing amount of physical pain. As I ran this morning, asking the Lord to help me finish the course that we had planned, my thoughts ran directly to him. My pain is short-term, can be resolved with a bit of Advil. His pain is daily, minute after minute. He is running his marathon, one that the Lord is asking of Him. Lord, may he know that he inspires and encourages our faith daily. May he cry out to you for help Lord, may he feel your presence so strongly that he may claim like James,

"Consider it pure joy my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." James 1:2-4

Stef, we love you brother! Sandi, may He give you His almighty strength to endure! It's a privilege and an honor for all of us to walk this road with you. For more of Stef's story, please click on the link to the right. Have a joy-filled day in Him.