Brace yourself

“But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good,” 2 Timothy 3:1-3 ESV

In a disturbing story published on Wednesday, the following was reported: A high school track race turned violent this week after one student athlete caught up to another and sucker-punched him in the middle of an event. The footage began circulating online on Tuesday of the athlete running up behind the runner and punching him in the back of the head while onlookers sounded extremely upset. According to TMZ, the incident occurred Saturday at the Tohopekaliga Tiger Invitational in Kissimmee, Florida. What apparently led up to the attack was the student in the black uniform standing on the track during the race. Witnesses at the meet told the outlet that he wouldn’t move when racers were taking their lap, and the runner in the red and white uniform bumped him to get out of the way. After that, the athlete in the black uniform waited for the other runner to take another lap before he ran behind him and punched him in the head. Not only was this attack unsettling because of the coldheartedness of it but because of the lack of self-control the offender displayed, not even caring that the act would be caught on camera and that he would have to face the consequences of his actions. 

And you know, while this incident might have shocked us just a few years ago, it left most people simply shaking their heads at yet another occasion when a heartless person lacking self-control committed a brutal act of violence. But as Timothy warned Paul, "understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty." Times that you can be sure are upon right now as we continue to see the rapid rise of people who are "lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good," and the list goes on. 

So brace yourself for what's to come my friend. Be sober. Be alert. And be ever watchful of what's going on around you. But have no fear of what's to come. Jesus is coming back soon and will take us all home. Does that make you smile or what? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for warning us of what's to come so that we can be ready. Lord, as we see the world becoming more and more dangerous, immoral and out of control, remind us that we have no reason to fear. As Isaiah completely understood, "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you." Help us to trust in You completely Lord. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

It will be worth it

“But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”—” 1 Corinthians 2:9 ESV

In an article published by Runner's World recently titled, "Higher Fitness Leads to More Runner’s Highs," the writer said, "New research on endorphins is great news for longtime runners." She went on to say, "We all chase the elusive runner’s high. Some people describe it as “feeling strong” while other describe it as a sense of mental clarity. Suffice to say, it feels good. But most highs are addictive; the more of the stimulus you get, the more of it you need to feel that same level of pleasure. A runner’s high is different. According to recent research published in Medicine & Science in Sport & Exercise (MSSE), the fitter you get, the better the high. So whether you’re just getting started or in the thick of regular training, your brain is doing its best to keep you running." The takeaway from all this? The more you run, the fitter you’ll become and the more benefits you’ll reap from your efforts. Is it worth it? Ask anyone who, like me, consistently chases the "runner's high” and they'll give you an emphatic, "Yes."

And while the reward of the “runner’s high” is what makes lacing up day after day worth the effort, the reward that “God has prepared for those who love him” is worth our greatest daily effort to achieve. You see, even though you and I can’t see it, hear it, or even fully imagine the splendor of it, Jesus promised the reward of eternal life to all those who stay faithful until the end. In fact Jesus himself said, “In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you.”And the best part? The reward for following Christ is better than any runner’s high! Since we know that He is preparing a place for us, we can have peace in the midst of our chaotic world knowing we will one day go home. 

So if you’re wondering if following Christ with your whole heart is worth it, let me assure you that it is my friend. Choosing to love the Lord today will provide you with benefits beyond your wildest imagination both now and for eternity. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that a life lived for You comes with benefits so amazing that our human minds can’t fully comprehend them. Cause our hearts to seek You Lord above all else and please give us an unquenchable passion to serve You, and to make your great Name known. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - List your reasons for thankfulness

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about Spring fever, something many runners are experiencing right now. This is something that's defined as a feeling of excitement because the weather suddenly becomes warmer, but I would like to add that the feelings of excitement aren't only because of the rising mercury, but the additional hours of sunlight that bring forth new growth and new birth; reminding us that change is an absolutely beautiful thing and that there is so much to be thankful for. 

So in the spirit of Spring and the feelings of excitement and thankfulness it brings, I invite you to reflect on some of the things you have to be grateful for today. Consider it a thankfulness list of the 10 blessings running has brought you. This will not only make you smile and more thrilled that racing season is upon us, but will remind you that life is a gift to be cherished. So without further ado, here are 10 reasons I'm thankful for running today: 

1. Running Friends. The friendships I've made through running are absolutely priceless. I guarantee that every runner who makes their own list of things running has given them will include friends. And what's so neat about the running community is that it's small (no matter how it appears) and you'll encounter the same people over and over making races feel like family reunions. The people you sweat with on the course are the people you'll want to have coffee with after the run. Kristen Armstrong said it this way, "There’s a closeness about people who run together. We become better friends, better athletes, and better women by the company we keep." And C.S. Lewis explained it like this, "Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, ‘You too? I thought I was the only one.’"

2. Pacing. This is one of the best things running has ever given me. Helping others make it to the finish line fills my joy tank like nothing else can. I honestly would rather pace than race. I love it that much!

3. Memories. There is perhaps no better quality time you can spend with your children than by running with them. Since my son (Luke, pictured here running his first marathon with me) and daughter were little, I have taken them to races. Luke is grown now and Hope will be a senior this year which makes me sad. But I'm thankful that no matter how far away life takes them, life can't take away the memories I have of running with them by my side. We've shared a lot of miles together and I cherish every one of them. 

4. The Views. I've been blessed to see countless sunrises and sunsets, mountaintops and valleys, along with different states, cities and towns in all four seasons. Running has allowed me to not only see the beauty of creation, though, but to experience it. The smells, sounds, and feels of life are magnified when you're running. 

5. The Injuries. Yes. I'm even thankful for the injuries. Pictured in a boot in the above picture with my son was after the 2016 Boston Marathon. A bout of peroneal tendinitis nearly took me out until I discovered aqua running. I spent six weeks simulating all my training runs in the pool while healing to keep my endurance. I'm not gonna say completing the 26.2 miles that year didn't hurt like heck (it did because I wasn't used to the pounding) but it caused me to see its' many benefits and become certified to teach aqua running to others. I now teach it to countless injured and physically impaired people every week at our local pool. Something that many have said was life-changing. I've been sidelined a lot since then and have spent countless hours in the pool rehabbing various injuries. But every one of them has made me tougher and profoundly more appreciative of every step the Lord allows me to take. 

6. My Career. As a running coach and an advocate for physical fitness, I serve as the Wellness Coordinator for Pulaski County. I'm so thankful for this platform because it allows me to share the benefits of running and walking with my whole community. And I have the blessing of directing lots of events that open up opportunities for people to get fit. I love to say that my calling and career are combined! Running has given me that.

7. Finish Lines. Finish lines are the reward for a job well done. They are the place where you laugh and tell the stories of what happened on the run. They are the place where you rest from your hard work, cheer on your friends, and eat the free food that you earned. Finish lines are what every runner lives for and the place where we plan our next adventure. This is the finish line of the Dogwood Canyon trail run; can't wait to see it again this year. 

8. Perspective. Running has allowed me to see that life is a vapor, here today and gone tomorrow. Running reminds me that new sunrises quickly turn into days that come to an end, never to be again. Running has given me the wisdom to live each day to the fullest, to love with abandon, and to laugh until I cry. Running reminds me not to take life too seriously. I'm not paying the rent with my earnings so it suits me best to just enjoy it. 

9. Resilience. Let's face it. Anything that can go wrong will go wrong over the course of a long run. If not on your current run, then on your next one. Running has given me the ability to roll with the punches and to press on in the face of adversity. Running has shown me that there's almost always a solution to any problem if I just hang in there, that my attitude has a lot of power over whether I'll give up or come out victorious, and that pain is worth experiencing in the pursuit of the finish line. I've learned to embrace it and push through it, something that has benefited me in my personal life as well. 

10. Stronger Faith. As someone who acknowledges that God is the giver of all good things, running has allowed me to grow stronger in my faith. Every run spent in peaceful meditation and prayer has made me understand that this world didn't come about by accident but was made by a Creator who causes everything to work in unison. Running truly has been good to me and for me. 

So there you have it friends. Those are just a few of the lovely things running has brought me that I am thankful for. And I must admit that I was smiling as I listed them and could have written at least a dozen more! Now it's your turn. What's on your list today? What are some of the blessings running has given you? I'd love for you to share them if you feel led. If not, write them down anyway. They will leave you grateful for every step you've been given. Now get out there and work off some of that Spring fever.

HAPPY RUNNING!

Stand out among the others

"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:" 1 Peter 2:9 KJV

In an article published by Runners World on March 23 titled, “The Dos and Don’ts of Marathon Spectating,” Jes Woods, Nike Run Club coach and manager at Mile High Rub Club studios in New York City, offered this tip for cheering on your runner. Don’t worry about blending in with the crowd. The marathon can be an all-day event and it’s important to pack supplies to sustain you throughout the race. Woods recommends spectators bring snacks, water, a portable phone charger, and hand warmers if the weather calls for them. Plus, it helps to stand out from the crowd with a few extra key items. “Whether it’s a cowbell or a megaphone or a whistle or those clapping things—bring anything that you have to make yourself be seen or be heard,” Woods says. Being seen also includes what you’re wearing, Woods says. “Dress loud, be loud, go ahead and wear your tie-dye sweatshirt, bright colors, something that is going to make you stand out,” she says. “Your runner is staring into the crowd trying to spot you just as much as you’re trying to spot them.” So, you want to stand out among the others—that means you don’t need to worry about looking cool, but think more about being seen.

And you know, when it comes to standing out "among the others" in this world, you and I should most definitely be more worried about imitating Jesus than looking cool or blending in. In fact, since we are privileged to be “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood” and a “holy nation,” we should strive to live our lives in a such a pure and moral way that we are known as “a peculiar people." So odd and unusual that we can't help but daily sing the praises of the One who called us out of darkness and into His marvelous light, no matter how uncool and bizarre that makes us look in the eyes of the world. 

So in a box of standard crayons, be a bright neon one my friend. Be bold, be willing to stand out, and be willing to let the light of Jesus shine so brightly through you that others would be inspired to come out of the darkness and into His marvelous light. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for allowing us the privilege of being called a "chosen generation" when we were so unworthy of the title. Lord, in response to the love You have given us when it was unmerited, help us to be so thankful that we can't help but live for You in response and sing your praises so that others would be drawn to the foot of the Cross. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Encouragement will get you to the finish line

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV

"I am sore, in pain, I hurt. I’ve soaked in Epsom salts, taken Aleve, used some essential oils so hopefully I can sleep tonight. I did something today that I NEVER thought I would be able to do. I walked my first 5k. I couldn’t have done it without my friend’s encouragement. Thanks my people!" Those were the words posted by my dear friend Gail after completing her first 5k Friday night; something she never dreamed she would even attempt until she found a group of amazing encouragers. Gail, along with her friend Bobbie who walked the 3.1 mile distance alongside her, have been participants in the weekly aqua running classes I have been blessed to teach for several years in our community. Over the years, Gail, who has physical limitations due to breaking both of her feet several times and dislocating her ankles, has spent countless hours in the pool exercising with people like Bobbie, who not only want to be the best selves they can be but motivate others in the class to be the best they can be as well. So as Gail's coach, you can be sure that I was all smiles when she crossed the finish line (wearing ankle braces and special shoes) with her hands raised high in victory. 

And you know, just as encouragement is crucial to a person crossing the finish line, it's crucial to victory in our spiritual walk as well. Which is the very reason that Paul, after telling the church at Thessalonica what to expect in "the day of the Lord" reminded them to continue encouraging one another and building each other up so that they would not give up. You see, Paul knew that the race would be hard (and would get even harder still as the end days approached) and that the church would feel like quitting before they obtained the prize. But he also knew that encouraging words and actions between believers would motivate and inspire them to press on to the finish line no matter the pain or obstacles they encountered along the way. 

So if you have an encourager or group of them in your life, count yourself blessed my friend. You have exponentially increased your chances of staying the in the race until the day Jesus comes back or calls you home. If you don’t, I urge you to find one. You’ll be so glad you did. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for those people in the world who serve to lift up and encourage others. Help us to not only seek out these people but to become them. Remind us that all believers are in this race together so that we would cheer one another on at every opportunity. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Don't settle for cheap grace

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” Matthew 16:24 NIV

In an article published by Runner’s World recently titled “Cheap Meal Recipes From Elite Marathoner McKale Montgomery,” McKale, who has a Ph.D. in Nutrition and holds a 2:34 marathon PR, said healthy food doesn’t have to be expensive if you’re careful about shopping. All her racing and training is fueled by groceries from Walmart. Montgomery, 37, lives in Stillwater, Oklahoma, where she is an assistant professor of nutritional sciences at Oklahoma State University. Although she and her husband, Scott, who is a software engineer, are at the point in their careers where they could afford more expensive food on occasion, they avoid it. It’s in their nature to be “thrifty,” she said. And, with the rising cost of food, it would do us all well to be “thrifty” and check out some of those cheap meal recipes that work for McKale. After all, if they can fuel an elite marathoner, they can fuel us too right?

And you know, while cheap meals are a good thing, cheap grace is definitely not. What exactly is cheap grace you might ask? In his book titled The Cost of Discipleship, Dietrich Bonhoeffer defined it as “the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline. Communion without confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ.” In other words, cheap grace spotlights and gives special importance to the benefits of being a Christian without mentioning the costs of following Jesus wholeheartedly, which entails a complete surrender of a person's wants, wills, and desires to serve Him no matter the cost of doing so and the total submission of a person's yearning to go their own way to "take up their cross" to follow Jesus instead... even if it means losing all they have or even giving up their very lives. 

So be that 'person' who chooses to "take up their cross" over taking hold of cheap grace today my friend. It will be hard to say the least, but I can promise you that you will reap eternal benefits far beyond your wildest imagination and will gain far more than you will ever lose by doing so. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that true discipleship will cost us everything we have and then some. It won't be easy to follow You, especially as we encounter the persecution that is sure to come to every true believer as the end days draw nearer, but it will be so worth it. Give us the strength to keep pressing on, the discernment to make the right choices, and a heart set on following You until the day we hear the trumpet sound and You take us home. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Turn from sin and turn to God

“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,” Acts 3:19 NIV

In an article published by Runnerstribe yesterday titled, "How Can Swimming Help You Train for  Running?" one of the ways given in response to the question was that swimming aids in recovery. Running is hard on the body. The very nature of the sport calls for runners to repeatedly concentrate their entire body weight first on one leg, then the other, for minutes, hours and miles on end. As though that weren’t harmful enough, there are added effects of each footfall’s landing impact, which increases the risk of foot, shin and knee injury. It doesn’t matter whether you land on your heel, toes or a combination thereof, either. The wise runner will not only alternate between jogging and running, they will also spend some time in the water, doing low-intensity, low-impact work that will give their muscles and bones a break while still getting some cardio work in... Swimmers breathe less often than runners as they practise their sport because their bodies use oxygen more efficiently. This benefit carries over to your running and it’s fairly quick to realise; you may start seeing better oxygen efficiency after as few as 12 swimming sessions. So, as you can see, the "wise runner" will incorporate swimming into their training regimen to aid with their recovery. 

And you know, when it comes to spiritual recovery or becoming or being made ‘well’ again after falling into sin (something that can happen to anybody and always leads to some type of injury), the Bible is clear that when the wise person repents, their sins are wiped out and forgiven. They are then not only restored and made right with the Father but reap the rewards of the “times of refreshing” the Lord lavishes on all those who pursue righteousness. But you can be sure that true repentance means a person must not only feel remorse or regret for their transgression but must feel it so deeply that it causes them to turn away from it "and turn to God." 

So if you’re weary, parched and run down from the effects of sin in your life, make the wise choice to turn away from the wicked and ungodly thoughts and behaviors that are hurting you today and turn back to God my friend. The restored relationship you will then have with the Father will refresh your mind, body, and spirit. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for promising to restore us to wellness when we turn from our unrighteous ways and turn to You. Cause us to recognize where we have strayed Lord that we might immediately get back on course and finish the race strong. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Find your tribe

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about something that's obvious to the seasoned runner who has surrounded themselves with positive running friends but may not be apparent to that solo one or the newbie runner that's been hopping from running group to running group looking for some added motivation but still can't seem to find it..... your chances of succeeding at any goal (especially your running goals) is exponentially increased when you have positive friends. Interestingly enough, the more upbeat, look-at-the-glass-half-full and joy-filled friends you have, the easier your training will be, the crazier the things are that you’ll attempt, and the more fun you'll have making your way to the finish line. 

To prove this point, check out what fellow Bass Pro Marathon pacers Rachel Baker and Jody Rhoads (look for Jody and me to pace the 5:30 marathon group this year) accomplished over the weekend thanks to their positive attitudes and the help of some like-minded buddies from the SW MO Ultrarunning Group. 

In Rachel's words... Cirque 100 Mile Virtual 100 (aka The Dumbest 100) race report.

First of all, I hope everyone belongs to a tribe as great as the one I belong to. I could not find a 100 mile race that would fit into my schedule this spring so I planned on doing something low key the first weekend of April. I was thinking maybe a 24 hour track run with a couple of friends. Then my handsome little man came home with an invitation to a mom/son glow party that weekend and wants to go; of course we are going. So a week and a half ago I ran this crazy idea of running a 100 miler the Thursday and Friday of spring break by my husband and he said go for it. I even found a virtual 100 I could do that had a 40 hour time limit and I would get a buckle. 

And with that mission in mind, the stage was set. Jody offered to run the whole thing with Rachel. Another friend offered the use of her cabin as an aid station. No less than 10 friends came out to run various parts of the run with the girls, at all hours of the night. And the best part Rachel said, her friend Lisa came out with her husband and kids to watch her finish. "My kids have never watched me finish an ultra (besides the dreadmill 100), so I might have shed a few tears. I cannot thank everyone enough for the support. The Southwest Mo Ultra Runners are the best group. And thank you, thank you, thank you Jody!!! I had the best time on our 100 mile adventure." She later added, "It was so easy to stay focused and positive with Jody. She always has a smile on her face." Do you just love this or what?

With friends like these, it's pretty easy to see why running friends are great motivators isn't it? And why everyone should, like Rachel said, find a tribe to belong to.

I have a running tribe that includes Rachel and Jody and I wouldn't trade these friendships for anything! I honestly don't think I would continue to lace up day after day, year after year without the amazing bonds and close relationships running has given me. 

Me with Gretchen 

And just to give you one more example of why running buddies are the best to have, besides the fact that you can share your deepest thoughts with them and they won't call you crazy or that they can give you better counseling sessions on long runs than a paid professional, they are always down to do something with you that's worthy of getting you an extended stay in the funny farm. Consider Gretchen (one of my bestest running buddies in the world and a girl I absolutely adore). Inspired by Rachel and Jody but not quite ready for another 100 miler right now, I sent Gretchen this message on Monday, "What do you think about running 50 miles Saturday? I don't want to pay for a race but we need a long run." I then added, "This is super stupid so you'll probably say yes." Her response? "I don't even know if I can do 50." But not even five seconds later, I received another text, "Where would you want to attempt this nonsense?" And just like that, the stage was set and we will be off for another one of our crazy adventures with our tribe (who couldn't wait to join us for “this nonsense”) this weekend. This is the benefit of finding the right tribe and a crazy running buddy. You may all die but you'll sure have fun doing it right?

So there you have it friends. If your motivation is lagging, find a tribe!! And if you can't find a positive running group in your area, find a "bestie" that will support you and then look for others to join you so you can make your own tribe! I promise it will be worth the search effort and will pay off in more ways than one. Running buddies not only make running more fun but they make life more fun. The time spent running together will draw you closer in ways nothing else could. Part of my running tribe is pictured above. After years of running together, we share more than miles. We share coffee, lunches, holidays, birthdays, and any other days when we can just be together. Running friends truly are the bestest in the world. So get out there and find a few. You'll thank yourself for it later. 

Happy Running!

Avoid Spiritual dehydration

“A psalm of David. When he was in the Desert of Judah. You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water.” Psalm 63:1 NIV

In an article published by Runner's World Friday, the notion that running regularly can cancel out the negative side effects of sitting too much was discussed and debunked. Research indicates that no matter how much you exercise, sitting for excessively long periods of time is a risk factor for early death. And it definitely inhibits your exercise performance—you can’t, for example, sit for eight hours at work and then get up and run five miles without it affecting your body. All that sitting results in tight leg muscles and other issues. “Sitting all day will make the front of your body tighten up—especially your hip flexors, rectus femoris (a quad muscle), pectoralis (chest), upper traps (upper back), and anterior scalenes (the front of your neck),” explains David Reavy, a Chicago-based orthopedic physical therapist at React Physical Therapy. “When these muscles tighten up, it creates musculoskeletal imbalances. For example, tight hip flexors can cause an anterior tilt, which shuts down your abdominals and your glutes. So if you run after prolonged sitting, then those big stabilizing muscles simply won’t work.” The takeaway from all this? Finding ways to get up and move more throughout the day would be of enormous benefit to everyone. But if that's simply not possible, a runner should make time to stretch and open up their tight muscles before setting out for a workout.  

And you know, sitting too much and other states of inactivity are not only detrimental to our physical health but to our mental and spiritual health as well. You see, spiritual idleness will keep us from fully pursuing the Lord in a way that keeps our minds and souls hydrated, joyful, full and refreshed. David clearly understood this and, in fact, knew that the pain and desperation of spiritual thirst needed to be quenched before his physical thirst. In a “dry and parched land” David earnestly sought his God above all else because his whole being longed for Him. David made seeking after God his first priority, something that should be our first priority as well if we are to avoid the countless negative side effects that come from spiritual dehydration. 

So make time for God each and every morning my friend. After all, hydrating properly for each day starts with a consistent morning routine. Actively search and pursue Him as a person searches for water in a dry and parched land and you'll not only keep yourself from being spiritually dehydrated but will have peace, vision and direction for the day. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that spiritual inactivity has no place in a Christian’s life. It not only keeps us from fulfilling our mission to share the Gospel but keeps us from the close fellowship with You that our souls so desperately need. Cause us to seek You consistently and constantly so that we, like David, can know You in such a way that we can declare, "You, God, are my God." It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Continue the legacy

"And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And they cast lots to divide his garments." Luke 23:43 ESV

On March 19, Rick Hoyt of Team Hoyt joined his nephews Ryan, Troy and Jayme Hoyt for the St. Patrick's Road Race in Holyoke, Massachusetts to continue his father Dick Hoyt's legacy. Dick, who pushed Rick (who was stricken with cerebral palsy during birth) in a specialized running carriage in more than 1,100 races, including triathlons, Iron Man competitions and every Boston Marathon from 1981 to 2014, died last year at the age of 80. There was some talk that Team Hoyt would become an internet charity, The Hoyt Foundation contributes its donations to organizations devoted to helping those, like Rick, who are paralyzed. Dick’s youngest son said Saturday that Rick would not let that happen. “He said to Dick’s grandsons, ‘I want you to push me.’ He has always been the engine,” Russ Hoyt said. Rick is now in his mid-50s and while he cannot do marathons anymore, he came back to be in the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Road Race, with his ever-present smile at the crowds who line the streets. Two of the grandsons, Troy and Ryan, will also represent Team Hoyt and run the 2022 Boston Marathon in Dick’s memory. They will lead a charity team of 22 runners to raise funds for the Hoyt Foundation. Do you just love that story or what? 

And you know, when it comes to carrying on a legacy or the mission of making a lasting impact on the world, every believer would do well to carry on the legacy of forgiveness that Jesus left. You see, Jesus not only forgave people who repented of their sins, He forgave those people who didn't even realize they were sinners. He forgave the very people who had taunted Him, spat on Him, beaten Him, and then crucified Him saying, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." Almost unbelievable isn't it? But that's our Jesus! He looked at the people responsible for His horrible suffering and pain and prayed for their forgiveness. And because of that, the Roman centurions and soldiers who witnessed the crucifixion said, "Surely he was the Son of God." 

So in a world that's in desperate need of a Savior, let us carry on Jesus' legacy of forgiveness that we might inspire those watching to seek the One who loved us so much that He died on the Cross for us while we were still sinners. This conscious, deliberate decision to release feelings of resentment or vengeance toward a person or group who has harmed us, regardless of whether they actually deserve it, will be so unlike the attitude of the world that people will surely take notice. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of forgiveness that You have given us to follow. Help us to remember that we can't exhibit this type of release without the power of the Holy Spirit who You have placed inside every believer. Thank You for that precious Gift and for the peace that forgiveness always brings to the one who extends it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Our time on earth is brief

"'LORD, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered— how fleeting my life is." Psalm 39:4 NLT

Although I had taken the day off from work yesterday to spend with my daughter, Hope, who was on spring break from school, I rose early in the morning to get in a run at my usual time so I could not only see the sunrise but get back home at about the time I knew my sweet girl would be getting up so we could make the most of the day. "Where did the time go?" I thought to myself at one point as I watched this beautiful and well-mannered teenage girl of mine eating her sushi with chopsticks looking ever so grown up. Holding back tears, my mind drifted back to a time not so long ago when she and I had one of our weekly lunch dates at Wendy's where a bowl of chili, some chicken nuggets, and a frosty would have been her choice of fare. "I just love spending time with you," I told her as we finished up our lunch. "And I'm so thankful that the Lord allowed me to be your mom. Thanks for blessing me with your presence today." "Awww Mom," she said as she smiled. “I love you." 

And you know, there will will come a time in every person's life when they will look back and say, "Where did the time go?" Which is the very reason the psalmist was wise to say, "LORD, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered— how fleeting my life is." You see, when you and I realize just how short life truly is and that every day that passes will never be again, we will make wiser decisions on how we spend the time we are given. We won’t put off doing things that should be done today; things like telling our children how much they mean to us or telling our neighbor across the street that Jesus loves them. We will make the most of our days because we know there will come a time when there will be no more days to make the most of. 

So if you've never stopped to consider how fleeting your life is, I urge you to ask the Lord to remind you of that today so that you won't waste even one precious moment of this beautiful life you have been given. Make every moment count my friend, so that on that day when you ask yourself, "Where did the time go?" you can smile knowing that it went in service to Christ and to others. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the simple reminders that we need to make time for the things that matter most. Lord, remind us how fleeting our lives are and how quickly time passes so that we would make the most of it by serving You with abandon and loving others in the way You have showed us to by your example. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Invite the Lord to look

“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thought. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23,24 NIV

In an article published Tuesday titled, “Emerging technology helps runners avoid injury, get faster at the 173rd Fighter Wing,” certified corrective exercise specialist Amy Jones, describes the new cutting edge technology called Run DNA that is helping runners avoid injuries. The mechanics involve placing 18 different feedback sensors on the legs, knees, hips, ankles and feet and then using a computer based video system to capture their stride on a treadmill. “We are able to take a single capture,” she said referring to the video file, “and then view it from every single angle.” The Run DNA software analysis is instant, spitting out solutions for gait problems, fixes for problems like over-striding or favoring one side or the other. Senior Master Sgt. Colin Carr, who just got certified to administer tests, says it’s useful for any runner regardless of ability or experience.

And you know, while this DNA technology can allow a runner to see their skeleton as it moves along to detect anything that might cause them injury, the psalmist David knew that the only way to avoid spiritual offenses was to ask the Lord to search his heart to see if there was any sinful way in him. And if there was, to point it out so David could correct it and walk “in the way everlasting.” You see David knew that he couldn’t detect the wicked and immoral things hidden deep within himself but that God, the Knitter of his DNA and the Creator of the universe, could. 

So if you truly want to know what’s inside of you—your motives, your heart, your anxious thoughts, and your sin—follow the example of David my friend. Pray that the Lord would look deep within you and convict you of those things you need to change and then change them. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we are incapable of seeing the way we truly are. Help us to look to You to reveal those hidden things we need to change so that we can walk in the way everlasting without any sin to keep us from close fellowship with You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Change the way you pursue the goal

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about how changing the way you view and pursue a goal can help you achieve that goal. But first, let me introduce you to my dear friends Jim Burns and Jenni Sherman. Both of these crazy runners participated in the Racing for Daylight 12-hour ultra event over the weekend. Both of them also completed a marathon (in Jenni's case a 50k ultramarathon)--something many people would love to do but can't fathom being able to cross the finish line under the standard six-hour cutoff to do it and so mark that goal off their bucket list. 

And that leads me to the subject of this week's blog... changing the way you pursue your goal to enable you to reach your goal. 

This is some of what Jim posted after this weekend's event.... 2022 Racing for Daylight 12 Hour Ultra Event. I had a great time on a cold and windy night with the crazy Waynesville runners and met a couple and their son that drove 6 hours from Iowa just for this run. I managed to get 26.4 miles in and had no pain anywhere except for my feet. I am okay with my miles especially when you factor in that I was only able to run 23 miles total in February and my longest run since last year's JMR Half Marathon has been 8 miles. 

And using Jim's example, this is what I mean. Jim wanted to complete a marathon but Jim was also fully aware that given his current ability, training, and endurance, he would be unable to do it at a typical 26.2 mile event. So he chose to do it at a 12-hour event that would not only allow him to reach his goal but to do it with joy. The extra time allotted ensured him that he could not only finish but could actually take the time to hang out at the aid station with friends and talk to and encourage all the runners on the course (something he is known for). With a 12-hour race, Jim viewed his goal as now doable and pursued it in the way that he knew he could achieve it... by keeping a slow and steady pace and refusing to give up even when his feet hurt. Do you just love that or what? 

On a side note... knowing that it took Jim nearly 10 hours to finish the marathon, I later messaged him and asked, "What inspired you to press on without the help of anyone else? It was cold, dark and lonely but you kept going? Why? And why was it important to finish the marathon regardless of the time?" To which he replied, "I guess all of the encouragement I got from my Joplin Roadrunner friends and then the work I saw so many people out on the course inspired me to keep going. And there is just something about being at one with nature that soothes my soul!! The FROG runners always inspire me." Which leads me to this point about goals... find a group that inspires and encourages you to complete your goals regardless of how unconventional the way you have to do it might be. These are the people you want in your corner!

And now let's talk about Jenni, a super fast runner who finished up a 50k training run and then some, and posted this after the race... I have the worst time trying to sleep when both my boys [husband and son] are gone that I decided to run as long as I could last night. The cold beat my butt and I went home at 7hrs. So much fun and loved every minute. Which brings me to another point. If your goal is to have fun AND complete a 50k, signing up for a fun run to do it will ensure that you have the best of both worlds. 

So there you have it friends. Whether your goal is to complete a 5k, a half-marathon, a hundred mile race, or a challenging trail run, don't look at all the reasons that you CAN'T achieve your goal, find a way to get it done and surround yourself with people who will support your efforts. There are so many events out there, that there is surely one that's fitted to you and the particular way you CAN get your goal accomplished. Just ask Jim and Jennie and they'll tell you that it's true. Do you just love crazy runners or what? Now get to training for those goals and remind yourself that you can do nearly anything you set your mind to if you just find the right place and adopt the right mind frame to do it. 

HAPPY RUNNING!!!

Guard your heart health

"Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life." Proverbs 4:23 BSB

Like many other races around the world that suspended their in-person runs for two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Cincinnati for the Heart Mini Marathon returned to 'normal' over the weekend when it hosted nearly 16,000 runners for their annual two-day event that included a distance for everybody. "Today in this campaign we raised about $3 million, all of which stays here in this community to fight heart and stroke research, and we have 16,000 of our dearest friends with us," Alyson Poling of the American Heart Association said. Poling was excited to cheer the runners on. This year's races offered something for every runner and everyone fighting for heart health “We are really proud to raise money each year. It's just been an awesome experience.”

And you know, when it comes to fighting for our own personal heart health, the Bible tells us to take the battle very seriously by saying, "guard your heart with all diligence." Diligence that, by definition, means putting forth a constant, steady, earnest, and energetic effort to keep it pure. And we do this because "springs of life" flow from our hearts. In other words, if we ignore wisdom and allow sin to enter our hearts and minds, our wicked thoughts will pollute us from the inside out; causing us to forego a life flowing with peace and joy and to follow after sinful desires that will steal our happiness and lead to destruction. 

So as Solomon clearly understood, it’s of utmost importance to guard your heart at all costs my friend. Be tenacious, dedicated, and laborious in your efforts so that you can stay on the right path and reap the benefits of a healthy heart. It's that important. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that it takes constant effort to keep our hearts pure. Lord, help us to be so sensitive to the evil things and thoughts of this world that we would recognize them for what they are and avoid them at all costs. Help us to have healthy hearts so that we can serve You to the best of our ability and inspire those watching us to do the same. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

It will be worth the effort

"In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also." John 14:2,3 KJV

Like many of the other volunteers who spent the majority of Saturday afternoon setting up for the Racing for Daylight 12-hour Ultra, I also ran the race which began at 6:00 p.m. that evening and ended at 7:00 a.m. Sunday morning. And if running for 720 minutes straight isn’t hard enough in good conditions (especially after preparing for this event that hosted more than 50 runners), we ran through the darkness for 11 out of the 12 hours and battled winds that were downright bone-chilling at times. So bone-chilling in fact that after finishing the event, tearing down the aid stations, and then driving home with the heater on, I walked in the door, immediately took off my coat and shoes and then laid down on the couch with a heavy blanket, thankful that God had given me the strength to make it across the finish line and back home where I could find heat, rest, and relief from my efforts. "Oh Lord," I thought to myself as I smiled, breathed in big, closed my eyes, and pulled the blanket tight. "Thank You for this warm house You have blessed me with." 

And you know, while our earthly homes may indeed be a place of rest and refuge from our toils here on earth, they are nothing compared to the "Father's house" where there "are many mansions" being prepared for us by Christ himself who has promised to "come again" to take us there. I don't know about you my friend, but in a world that is growing increasingly darker and progressively more intent on persecuting those who follow Jesus and those who stay faithful and uncompromising on the commands laid out in the Bible, the promise of residing in the place Jesus has prepared will be well worth the struggle, labor, and hard work it will take to stay loyal and make it to the eternal finish line. 

So determine within yourself that you will do whatever it takes to run the race and to stay faithful until the end. Doing so will reap benefits beyond your wildest imagination, including abiding in the Father's house for eternity. Can you just imagine how amazing that will be? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that every person who has chosen to follow You will one day have rest from their earthly worries, troubles, and trials. Lord, if there's someone reading this that has not put their trust in You, I pray today is the day they would recognize their need for the only One who can provide shelter from this dark and cold world and choose to trust You so they might reap the eternal benefit of living with You forever. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Put on ALL the armor

“Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.” Ephesians 5:11 NLT

In an article posted by Runner's World on February 16 titled, "To Prevent Pain as You Age, Give Your Exercise Sessions a Boost," a new study in the journal PLOS ONE suggested that, contrary to what most people believe, exercising more intensely for longer durations of time is actually the best way to ward off the type of bone, joint, and muscle pain that often comes with aging. Researchers looked at just over 5,800 people over age 50 who were part of a large, long-term study on aging in England. Only high levels of physical activity were shown to be protective against musculoskeletal pain compared to a sedentary lifestyle, according to lead author Nils Georg Niederstrasser, Ph.D., senior lecturer in the department of psychology at University of Portsmouth in the U.K. “Of course any activity helps people stay well and feel better if you’re comparing that not exercising at all. But when it comes to development of chronic pain, mild exercise doesn’t appear to have a long-term effect,” said Niederstrasser. “Not only does activity need to be vigorous, but you need to do it at least once a week.” “Physical activity can improve bone mass and muscle function, as well as reduce stress and improve mood,” he added. “Many older people reduce exercise because they think it will lead to more pain, but the opposite is true. It’s a preventative strategy.”

And you know, when it comes to preventative strategies to ward off pain and suffering in our spiritual lives, there could be no better plan of action that you and I could ever take than to “put on all of God’s armor so that we “will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.” Did you get that all part? We need to apply all the armor so that we can defend ourselves against all the ways the devil will come at us. And believe me, he is relentless, cunning, and extremely deceptive in his attacks. So relentless and cunning in fact that Peter warned us in 1 Peter 5:8 to be sober-minded and watchful because our adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

So knowing that the best way to protect yourself against the schemes of the devil (and you can be sure he’s always scheming to harm us) take preventative measures every day by reading the Word (which is the belt of Truth) so that you will know the Word and be able to put on the full armor of God. It will not only keep you from experiencing the pain of being attacked while being unarmed but will greatly reduce your stress and improve your mood considerably. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that wearing the full armor of God is more than a suggestion. It's a command for every good soldier who wants to win the war against our adversary the devil. Help us to understand how important it is to know the Word so that we will never be caught unarmed. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!! 

We have a Good Shepherd

"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." John 10:11 ESV

In a story aired by Tampa Bay News 13 Monday, dramatic dashcam footage from a Florida Highway Patrol SUV shows the moment a trooper put herself in harm's way in order to protect thousands of runners from a suspected DUI driver who plowed through a series of roadblocks. FHP said 52-year-old Kristen Kay Watts of Sarasota slammed into Master Trooper Toni Schuck's SUV on Sunday morning, leaving Schuck, 47, with serious injuries, after ignoring a series of roadblocks in place for the annual Skyway 10K. "There’s no telling what would have happened had that vehicle actually reached all of those runners. The bottom line is these troopers saved dozens upon dozens of lives and saved even more people from serious bodily harm injury," said Trooper Watson. FHP said Schuck prevented a tragedy by directly putting herself in harm's way in order to prevent others from getting hurt or killed. Thankfully, Schuck, who suffered a head injury and a concussion in the accident, is back home and resting with her family.

And you know, not everyone whose job it is to 'protect and serve' would have put their life on the line like Shuck did to save someone else. She takes her job very seriously and obviously loves the people she serves. Similarly, a hired hand who tends sheep for the money would most likely not put their life on the line to save the sheep. But a good shepherd would because a good shepherd loves his flock and takes his job to 'protect' them very seriously. Isn't that such a beautiful picture of Jesus? He is the Good Shepherd who loves His sheep (that's you and me) so much that He would "lay down his life" for them.

So if this world has you beat down and wondering whether you're worthy of love today my friend, let me assure you that you are. The Good Shepherd laid down His life for you on the Cross at Calvary not because He had to but because He wanted to. And the best part? He is coming back soon to take His flock home.

Heavenly Father, thank You for showing us just how much You love us. It's so hard to fathom how the Creator of the universe would care to know our names much less send His one and only Son to die for us. But that's what You did. Help us to show our appreciation for this by loving and serving others in the same way the Good Shepherd did for us. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!