Three Things Thursday

ONE
Yesterday I ran... twice. The two runs were completely different, but both filled a special part of me.

My morning run was needed behind what words could explain. I was solo and had a lot of stuff cluttered up in my head. It was a chilly 30 degrees, but the sun was shining brightly. With each step, the tension evaporated from my body. I'm continually amazed at how clearly life comes into focus when I'm running. It's one of the reasons I treasure my solo runs. It's my escape, my time of reflection, a renewal. I was only two miles into my run and tears bubbled up at the base of my throat. I felt so incredibly blessed at that moment... but do you know how hard it is to run (breathe!) when you're holding back tears? Geesh, I thought my chest was gonna explode!

In the evening, I ran another 4 miles with my Sole Sisters. Before I left, my hubby said, "But didn't you already run today?"  I tried to explain... "A run with friends is different. It's like you meeting some friends for a couple drinks. You chat. You laugh. You catch up on life and form bonds. That's what we do... but we exercise at the same time.  What can I say? We're good multi-taskers..."

TWO
On Friday morning, I am participating in a 24 Hour Run Challenge at the Peoria Air Guard base.  The run competes against other TACP military units around the world, including those deployed. Each team is challenged to have at least one person run for 24 straight hours, starting Thursday evening. The winner is the team that racks up the most miles in that time frame... but really, it's a win-win situation as the money supports a very honorable group. Team Peoria will be running in memory of local fallen Jacob Frazier. The TACP (Tactical Air Control Party) position in the Air Force is one of the most dangerous jobs so I've been told. This event honors the memory of fallen TACPs and raises funds to support the TACP community and their families. Should you feel moved to support our team, click here for the donation page.

THREE
Important Numbers...
31 more days until the Eugene Marathon.
Eeeek! I don't feel ready for this. I'm hoping after my 20 tomorrow, I will feel more confident.

4 days left in the #JellyBean virtual race.
Anyone can still participate for a chance to win cool prizes! Have you completed all your desired events yet? Don't forget to report your results! All the details/links are here.

3 more days until Easter Sunday.
I wish you all a blessed Easter. I will be celebrating with my family and offline most of the weekend. Rejoice and Be Glad!