There is power in encouragment

“So encourage each other and build each other up just as you are already doing” 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NLT

If there's one thing I love about being a Race Director, it's witnessing people cross the finish line for the first time. And while I didn't get to actually see my friend Rose and her husband, George, complete the Tadpole 10k (their first 6.2 mile race) in person yesterday (as they were out of town and registered for the virtual option of the FFG Frog Hill event), I did get to see the very first selfie of their smiling faces afterwards, which I must admit had me crying tears of joy. Later, Rose posted, "Did ours virtually this morning. George was a rock star, he did his walk and run, then came back to help me finish. These are my stats, I'm just glad I was able to finish. The last 1/2 mile was tough. My feet were screaming at me. Thanks for encouraging us to just do it! I'm challenging others to do it virtually if you can't be there. This is such a great cause." "Wow!!! Just wow!!," I responded and added, "This makes me smile!!!! So proud of the two of you!!! Encouragement has so much power!!!!" 

Do you just love this story or what? And do you know what I like best about it? This story shows that encouragement is not only contagious but beneficial to both parties. I encouraged Rose (which encouraged me) and her husband (they were also encouraged by many of the members of our fitness group) and she, in turn, encouraged others (which encouraged Rose) to follow her lead and do something they might not think they can do. This is the very reason Paul was adamant that believers "encourage each other and build each other up..." He knew that there was power in encouragement! Christians can do amazing things when their brothers and sisters uplift, inspire and cheer them on. 

So look for opportunities to speak words that will instill confidence and hope into someone today my friend. Make it a point to say, "You can do it!" to a person who needs to hear it. And then further support them as they step out to do the impossible. It's amazing what believers can accomplish when words or actions of encouragement cause their small flames to burn bright!

Heavenly Father, thank You for those people who are always looking for ways to encourage others. It's something that is priceless because of the strength it gives. Help us to be those people that are constantly lifting up and supporting others by both our words and our actions. And may our pursuits always point people to You, the greatest Encourager there is, was, or ever will be. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

George and Rose's first 10k selfie:)

Find new friends if you have to

"Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good character.'" 1 Corinthians 15:33 BSB

After sending my dear friend Stephanie a text asking her if she would once again work the packet pickup for the half marathon my running group co-presents every year (something she has done since the very first race), I received this response, "I'll be there!" "Oh yay!" I said to myself before looking down to see her next text. "And I may actually run the race Saturday for the first time ever!" To say I was shocked would be an understatement knowing that Stephanie, who had no desire at all to train for her second marathon and was going to "wing it", had experienced a change of heart and was now training. Knowing that, you'll understand my response. "What??? What's happening to you???" I asked her in my next text. "Well my training run is for 12 this weekend. I asked my coach, Jay, what's another 1.1... I can't believe I even said that." " I can!" I responded after getting over my laughing fit, and then teasingly added, "Bad company corrupts good character. Find new friends!!" 

And you know, as this story shows, the people you and I spend the most time with have the power to influence us to do the same things they do. Case in point, Stephanie was spending her time around people who knew the value of training and so inspired her to train as well (something she didn't do for her first 26.2 mile race). Unfortunately though, that can go the other way as well. You see, if the people we hang around are not focused on serving Christ and following the standards set forth in the Word, they can cause us to do negative things--things that might even be completely contrary to our morals, values, and ethics. It's no wonder then that Paul gives you and me this warning, "Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good character.'"

So don't fool yourself my friend. You cannot continually hang around people who habitually and arrogantly disregard God's laws and think that you can remain faithful. It just won't happen. So look for those people who will not only help you stay on the right path but will help you grow in your relationship with the Lord. Those are the best friends you will ever have. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that the people we choose as friends, especially those that we keep in our inner circles, have the power to influence us to do either good or bad things. Knowing that Lord, help us to be discerning in our relationships and to find new friends if the ones we have are either leading us astray or keeping us from growing in our relationship with You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - Find your mantra

Hello runner friends!
Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series
MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about mantras (statements, slogans or motivational phrases repeated frequently) and how they can help you run faster and actually motivate you to keep pressing on to the finish line when you feel like giving up.

So it's no secret that many pro runners, including Eluid Kipchoge, Des Linden, Shalane Flanagan, and Sara Hall use mantras to keep their minds focused, or as Erin Haugen, Ph.D., a sports psychologist based in Grand Forks, ND, says, "engaged in the run. "When you're running, your brain is taking in a massive amount of data: the scenery, the weather, your thoughts, your emotions, how your body feels, whether you're hitting your pace, etc." When you're uncomfortable, she says, you tend to focus on the negative—how heavy your legs feel or how strong the wind is in your face. But science shows that focusing on that will negatively impact your rate of perceived exertion (how hard an activity feels). "Mantras help us cue into something positive that is occurring or that we want to occur," explains Haugen. "They also prime us to experience or notice positive emotions that can help us think more productively about the task at hand."

So with that in mind, let's look at some of the mantras the professionals use:

"no human is limited" - Eliud Kipchoge (repeats it and wears it on a bracelet)

"calm, calm, calm. Relax, relax, relax," - Des Linden

"cold execution" - Shalane Flanagan

"relax and roll" - Sara Hall

 

Now, let's take a look at some of the mantras local runners use and how the personal motivational phrases they've adopted helps them run faster and/or motivate themselves to make it the finish line. 

You’re capable of more than you think! - Lisa Seachord

I’ve got a few....
“You pass out before you die”
“See the finish”
“You aren’t a quitter”
“Never ever forget why you do this”
During a really long run I ask myself what hurts and what can I do to change it. - Brenda L. Maine

For me, "it’s just something I’m gonna do." - John Everett

Paul with his grandson

My 8 year old grandson during his 5k last weekend started saying “ can’t stop, won’t stop" - Paul Cutbirth (By the way, it was Paul's grandson's first race and he took second!! Proof that mantras work!)

“Because my friends did it” - Rebecca Ito

I hear one of my sons coach’s saying over and over..”just say you will….SAY YOU WILL!” - Julia Witt

I try to think more in terms of dedication and determination than motivation. I feel like motivation wears off after a while. On those days I don't want to do the things, or when things get hard, I remind myself that "I'm dedicated and determined to keep moving forward and that I can't break a promise I made to myself" - Ashley Hopkins

"Just keep moving forward and one foot in front of the other." It’s helped me get through those tough, long trail runs when I’m solo and suffering. Just keep repeating while playing mind math games with the mileage that’s left to get it done. - Lisa Weber Stokes

“I can and I will” I have spent so much time in life thinking I can’t do things, as I have learned over the last few years I can do way more than I ever imagined. - Gretchen Puett

Especially while I was in Florida where it was ridiculously hot for a ridiculously long time I would tell myself, "Just think how much this is going to pay off once it cools down!" And then there were those years when it never cooled down, but nevertheless, I lived in hope. - Leah Nelson

"Regret makes a hard pillow" and "God is honored in excellence" are my go-to mantras. The first stemmed from my first 100 mile race when I was tempted to bow out at mile 67 until my teenage son said this... "Either way morning is going to come Mom. And you will either keep going and wake up a winner or give up and wake up with regret." I will never forget those words... NEVER. Regret sucks! And the other reminds me that I must give my absolute best as Paul talked about in Romans 12:1. - Melissa Martinez 

"You NEVER regret doing it, you always regret not doing it." And I usually just put my running clothes on, helps to motivate me. - Jeanette Luttrell

“One foot in front of the other” Simple, to the point, and keeps me going. - Casey Bladdick

“I’m not dead yet!” from Monty Python. I was half kidding…but honestly when I’m working out, I’m thinking only about getting the work done. Hence, “I’m not dead yet!” if the workout is particularly rough. - Matt Windsor

“Hills make you stronger” in running, in cycling, and in life. - Pete Groce

"Be strong and courageous…He will not leave you nor forsake you." (Deut 31:6). I use this because it gives me strength and reminds me that He is right there with me running beside me, like pacing me. - Larry Sharp

"If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you." Magical things happen when you step outside of your comfort zone. It’s only ever been the uncomfortable things, the things I take leaps of faith and dive head first into the unknown, that have been extraordinary and life changing. That’s so true of my fitness journey, especially with running and joining crossfit. When I got this medal rack, it was empty of medals for YEARS, only race bibs. Then one day I won a 3rd place medal and from there I got more and more accomplishments, until now I need a new one! Something I never thought. In addition to getting outside your comfort zone, working incredibly hard to achieve something you once thought was impossible is also an extraordinary feeling. Like me running a half this weekend!!!It helps me to remember where I came from, the incredible things I’ve done, the hard work and accomplishments that lay ahead of me. Just keep chopping the wood! - Taylor Samuels

Wow! Those are some good ones aren't they? I really like "Just keep chopping the wood." It's a great reminder to keep swinging no matter what comes your way. And just as Taylor won't mind me using her mantra, the other runners (me included) won't mind if you adopt their mantra as your own as well. In fact, I'm sure they'd be downright flattered (I know I would be). But hey, if one of these is not for you, find your own. You'll be glad you did. Now quit saying, "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can" and get out there and say, "I know I can, I know I can, I know I can!" The Bass Pro Marathon/Half and Dogwood Canyon trail runs are right around the corner and you have training to do!!!

Happy Running!!!

Let the light will lead the way

"Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path." Psalm 119:105 NLT

In a story out of Denver 7 yesterday, the following was reported: An Illinois man unexpectedly won the Quad Cities Marathon this weekend when the two runners who had far outpaced him were disqualified after being diverted off the course by a race volunteer bicyclist. The Quad-City Times reports that Tyler Pence crossed the finish line in 2 hours, 15 minutes, 6 seconds to become the first U.S. runner since 2001 to win the race. The head track and cross-country coach at the University of Illinois-Springfield, Pence logged his fastest time ever with the win. It came after Elijah Mwangangi Saolo and Luke Kibet, both from Kenya, diverted from the course a little more than halfway to the finish line when the bicycle rider leading them mistakenly went straight when he should have turned. Race director Joe Moreno confirmed to the Quad City Times that the bicyclist went the wrong way, but said runners should have known not to follow him. “At that intersection where that incident happened, the course was well-marked,’’ Moreno said. “The signage is well-displayed. The volunteers are there. And the fourth element is those elite runners have a meeting the day before to get familiar with the course.’’

And you know, when it comes to leading people the wrong way, we are in a day and age when the number of false prophets and teachers twisting the gospel is growing at an alarming rate. Therefore, it is the duty of every believer (that means you and me) to be familiar with the Word. So familiar in fact that we can discern when something being taught is contrary to the Scriptures, shining the light of the Word on whatever is being taught to expose any lies. You see, the Bible alone is the standard by which all truth must be judged—it is "a lamp" to guide our feet and "a light" to show the path that leads us to the finish line. 

 

So no matter how much a person, even your own pastor, professes to know and rightly handle the word of truth my friend, don't blindly follow them. Test every spirit to be sure that they come from God and never veer off the path the Lord has laid out for you. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for this reminder that shows how easy it is to veer off course and become disqualified from the Christian race. Lord, please give us a passion for the truth so that we would daily and diligently familiarize ourselves with the Word, so that we would not only stay on the path that leads to eternal salvation but lead others along the same route. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Make the most of every opportunity

"So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days." Ephesians 5:15-16 NLT

After missing my friend Lisa's call on Thursday, I clicked on her voicemail to hear her dilemma. "I was thinking about coming out on Friday night for the run but not sure because I work a full shift that day and it's a long drive. But I know if I don’t go I’ll regret it. It will be my first night race." Having learned from personal experience just how unpleasant it is to live with regret (even coining the phrase "Regret makes a very hard pillow" many years ago and sharing it often, even with Lisa), I urged her to come to the eight-hour run. "Just come for a little bit!" I pleaded. And to my delight, not only did Lisa come and stay for several hours, she completed seven miles of the steepest hills she's ever encountered. After congratulating Lisa later for stepping out of her comfort zone in so many ways, she posted, "This took me WAY out of my comfort zone. My pillow was soft last night though and it wasn't filled with regret." Do you just love that or what? You can be sure that Lisa was one happy runner. 

And you know, when it comes to regrets, there is one thing that for me (and I hope for you too) makes for a very hard pillow... a missed opportunity to share the gospel or to speak an encouraging word to someone. These thoughts will literally keep me tossing and turning at night. Which is the very reason Paul urged us to, "Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days"--something we can do only when we are "careful" in how we live. Which means remembering that occasions to talk about Jesus will be everywhere--occasions we will miss if we aren't paying attention or are behaving in a way that we shouldn't be. Like being impatient while waiting in a slow check-out line, for example (something I am guilty of), or being irritated by a change of plans. 

So let us not "live like fools, but like those who are wise" so that we would always make the most of every appointment the Lord arranges--no matter how much it disrupts our schedules. After all, doing so is the only way you and I can avoid living with the remorse, sorrow, and regret a missed opportunity always brings.  

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that the days are becoming more and more evil. Lord compel us to live in such a way that we would never miss an opportunity to shine Your light into the darkness and to never miss an opportunity to be Your hands and feet. Help us to live as those who are wise. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Show love by your actions

"Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions." 1 John 3:18 NLT

In a story aired yesterday by 2KUTV out of Macon, GA, it was reported that two competing athletes are now friends after a touching act of kindness on a Georgia racetrack. It all started when athletes Daylon Meeks of Treutlen County Middle and Aiden Roque of Mount De Sales Academy were competing in a Cross Country meet. “I started off good, until around the middle," Aiden Duque of Mount De Sales Academy. Aiden said he started slowing down, while Daylon was catching up. Then, the two were side by side. Until I stepped in that hole. And I fell and all my weight went on my ankle," said Roque. Aiden collapsed on the track. “I was crying," shared Roque. "I was in so much pain.” It was a pain Daylon couldn’t ignore. “I didn’t want to just leave him there," said Meeks. "So I stopped and sat there for a minute and proceeded to pick him up and take him to the finish line.” At that point, Daylon said he wasn’t worried about winning. I didn’t want him to not be able to finish the race because of his ankle. So I wanted to at least help him finish the race," said Meeks. “He stopped, he helped me up," shared Roque. "And let me put most of my pressure onto his arm and ran about the last 300 meters with me to finish the race.” “As I’m running with him, I’m yelling ‘you can do this! Just finish the race! You’re so close!'" said Meeks. And they did. The once competitors turned friends, exchanged numbers at the end of the meet in a rare act of sportsmanship neither will soon forget.

I don't know about you but this story had me teary-eyed. Just as the writer stated, acts of sportsmanship are not only rare these days but they truly are unforgettable. Unfortunately though, true acts of love seem to be just as rare. But they are the very thing you and I, as Christians, are supposed to be doing as often as we can. You see, if you and I are to influence the lost and the hurting to follow Christ, we must do more than profess to love them, we must "show the truth by our actions." We must love them like Jesus, putting their needs before our own, even if that means sacrificing our dreams, wants, desires and goals. Which is quite a good trade-off when you consider something I have come to know as truth... people will rarely remember our race times or successes but they will never forget our acts of kindness and the love that we show them. 

So seek to love others above yourself my friend. Love them like Jesus. You'll not only make friends but you'll inspire those around you to seek the One who loved us so much that He died for us.  

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we are to show our love to others in both word and in deed. Lord, give us a heart for the lost and for those in need of compassion so that we wouldn't hesitate to help or to minister to them. Break our hearts for what breaks Yours. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Our highest priority

"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life." Psalm 143:8

In an article posted by Runner's World yesterday, the following question was asked, "Should you foam roll then stretch or vice versa?" The answer according to recent research in the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine? Foam rolling followed by stretching is always the way to go. They went on to say that this order should be done before exercise rather than after as most runners are accustomed to. Doing this sequence before exercise rather than after can be helpful for performance, in part because your muscles get truly “warmed up” and prepped for a run, said Diana Garrett, D.P.T., C.S.C.S., physical therapist and outpatient rehabilitation supervisor at Providence Saint John’s Health Center’s Performance Therapy in Santa Monica, California. “We’ve found foam rolling is more effective as a warmup rather than a recovery tool,” she told Runner’s World. “Similar to dynamic stretching, it can be used to help improve range of motion and flexibility, and provide a cue for the body that prepares it for more high-intensity activity.”

And you know, foam rolling and stretching are not the only things you and I should do before exercising if we want to perform at our best each day. We should read our Bibles, pray and meditate. Why? Because to perform at our best as ambassadors of Christ, something that each one of us is called to be, we must know full well the One whom we represent and exactly what's required of us. This starts by having a personal meeting with Jesus each and every morning, as the psalmist clearly understood, to be reminded of His "unfailing love" and to receive clear direction, "in the way" we should go.

So knowing that clear direction is only gleaned from prayer, Bible study and meditation, let us make seeking Him first our highest priority. This is the only way to ensure that we are performing our duties to the best of our ability. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we are Your ambassadors everywhere we go. Knowing that we represent the Kingdom, cause us to have a thirst for the Word that we might continually grow in knowledge and in love. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION-Develop a Growth Mindset

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

Now let's get started by talking about why developing a Growth Mindset is crucial in eliminating the excuses that steal your motivation to get out the door and how this mindset will ensure that you stay motivated to cross the finish line.

Okay. So what exactly is this established set of attitudes held by someone?

A growth mindset, proposed by Stanford professor Carol Dweck in her book Mindset, describes people who believe that their success depends on time and effort. People with a growth mindset feel their skills and intelligence can be improved with effort and persistence. They embrace challenges, persist through obstacles, learn from criticism and seek out inspiration in others’ success.

Those who hold a growth mindset believe that they can get better at something by dedication of time, effort and energy. Working on one’s flaws, and the process—not the outcome—are the most important components. With time and practice, people with a growth mindset believe they can achieve what they want. The opposite of a growth mindset is a fixed mindset. The Growth Mindset is all about finding solutions to problems, and seeing problems as simply as obstacles, rather than barriers.

The growth mindset sees difficulties as opportunities to grow rather than opportunities to find excuses to stay as you are. That being said, nearly every excuse that you could ever give yourself not to lace up those shoes actually has a solution anyway... you just have to train yourself to look for that solution, something that is most definitely a learned reaction, especially if your mindset is fixed. But it's a reaction that will not only have you running better and more consistently but will spill over into every other area of your life. Think about it, when you learn to view barriers to your running success as simply obstacles that can be conquered, and then conquer those once-perceived barriers, you begin to think differently. These successes might seem small but they are anything but. What you once viewed as stumbling blocks have now become stepping stones. And I'll tell you from experience that every time you move from one stepping stone to another, you grow! You become more confident in your ability to overcome and are less apt to let anything stop you... in running and in life. 

So let's look at a five examples of how developing this growth mindset can ensure that you achieve your goals as it keeps your mind un-fixed and able to quickly move forward from one stepping stone to another...

1. Fixed Mindset says, "I'm too busy to fit running into my schedule." Growth Mindset says, "Sure I’m busy, but my running is really important to me. I will look to see how others that are just as busy as I am work running into their schedule and I will find a solution that works using the tips I glean from their lives. I will take an honest look at the things and activities that currently occupy my time and cut out those that aren't healthy for me (excessive time on the couch, television, social media, etc.) or beneficial to me. I will schedule my runs into my daily routine and stick to said routine as if I was getting paid (and really you are by gaining better health and decision-making skills) to do it.

2. Fixed Mindset says, "I’m so tired by the time I get home, all I want to do is sit on the couch. I know deep down that a run, even a short one, will energize me but I just can't muster the enthusiasm to lace up my shoes. Growth Mindset says, "I don’t have to run for long. Thirty minutes is better than nothing so I will make that my bare minimum time--and I will not cut my run even one minute short. If my energy level is raised, I will continue on. If it's not, I'll allow myself to rest knowing that I completed today's goal and will aim to surpass it tomorrow."

3. Fixed Mindset says, "I could benefit from joining a running group but I don't look the part and I can't keep up with them anyway." Growth Mindset says, "I will look closely at the majority of running groups and discover that they are comprised of members of all sizes, shapes and colors with different paces, goals and fitness levels. I will find a group that fits so that I can both benefit from it and be a benefit to it.”

4. Fixed Mindset says, "I'm injured and I can't run." Growth Mindset says, "I will consult my doctor to see what types of cross-training activities I can do. Whether it's swimming, biking, yoga, walking, or strength-training, I will commit to doing it as a way to maintain endurance while I wait for my injury to heal."

5. Fixed Mindset says, "It's just not worth it." Growth Mindset says, "I am worth it. I have this one body and this one brief life. It's worth my time and effort to make them both the best that they can be. I know that I must put in the work to see changes and I am willing to do it." 

So there you have it friends. What separates those runners who are successful--and I don't measure success by a person's PR's or racing accomplishments but by their resilience and determination to keep pressing on despite the obstacles that will undoubtedly come their way--from those who aren't has nothing at all to do with talent but everything to do with having a growth mindset. Consider this true statement that I tell the elementary students that I'm blessed to coach.... you can have all the talent in the world but if you lack the mindset to discipline, hone and grow that talent, it's worth nothing. On the flip side of the coin... what you lack in talent can be made up for with hard work and training over time. This effort might not make you the best runner in the world but it will make you the best that you can be and that's all that matters. So work hard to develop a growth mindset friends. It will benefit you in ways beyond your imagination. Now leave your excuses at the door and get out there for a run. It's a perfect day for it!

Happy Running!!!

Fix your eyes on Jesus

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:2 BSB

In an article published by Runner's World recently titled, "Small Food Swaps in Your Diet Can Extend Your Life and Benefit the Planet," it was reported that a Health Nutritional Index (HENI), which rates more than 5,800 commonly consumed foods by the minutes of life lost or gained per serving eaten was created by the resource journal Nature Food. The study provided some of the first hard numbers for the health benefits (and burdens) of our food choices, both on their impact on our personal health and that of the environment. The study’s main take home message: By substituting 10 percent of your daily caloric intake from beef and processed meats for a mix of fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and select seafood, you can reduce your dietary carbon footprint by one-third and gain 48 minutes of “healthy life,” meaning good-quality, disease-free life, per day. They went on to say, it’s worth noting that while there’s definitely merit to these health findings, try not to obsess over the foods you consume. Though it’s important to be aware of the nutritional content of what you’re eating, being fixated on every last detail isn’t healthy and can take the fun out of fueling your runs.

And you know, while being fixated on every last detail of a foods' nutritional content might not be healthy, fixing "our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith..." is absolutely crucial to our spiritual health. You see, our Savior, "who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame...," provided the only way to salvation through His death and resurrection. Therefore, Jesus is the only One who can lead us to reach our final destination. Which means that we must keep our eyes constantly rooted, anchored, moored, and fixated on Him to avoid going off course, losing our focus or faltering in strength on our way to the finish line. 

So keep your eyes fixed on Jesus my friend. Run with all your might knowing that a reward awaits all those who fight the good fight, finish the race, and remain faithful... something that can only be done if you and I faithfully, unwaveringly, single-mindedly, and steadfastly fasten, lock and hold our gaze on the One who now sits "at the right hand of the throne of God” and guarantees our deliverance. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us just how important it for us to keep our eyes on You at all times if we want to finish this race. Cause us to understand how easy it is to allow sin to take us off course the moment we let our eyes gaze upon the world rather than on you Jesus. Please give us the strength to follow after You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

Blessed to be a blessing

"And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others." 2 Corinthians 9:8 NLT

As both a runner and a race director, I know the joy that participating in running events brings to the people who run or walk in them. You can just see it in their faces when they cross the finish line--something that brings a smile to my face as well. So when I saw the response to a post I put out Friday advertising our upcoming Leapfrog 5k race, I was saddened to see what one prior participant wrote, "I wish I had the money to walk it again this year but I don't. Sorry." "Oh my," I immediately thought to myself. "I'm going to send her a promo code for a free entry. Lack of money won't keep her from running when I have the power to help." But guess what? Before I had the time to put my thought into action, I received this message, "I want to pay for Katiee Knight's entry into Frog Hill. How do I do that?" And after giving Rachel (Katiee's friend who stepped in to help after also seeing her response) instructions and then asking her permission to share this story, Rachel said, "Yes you may blog on this. God is definitely blessing me so I want to help others." Do you just love this story or what? 

But you know, that’s what God does... He blesses those who love Him and follow Him by generously providing them with "all" they need. And not only does God bless them with what they need but, as this story shows, blesses them beyond what they need so that they will have "plenty left over to share with others." The exact thing Rachel did. Rachel was more than happy to share what she had because she knows without a doubt that everything she has comes from God to be used for God--which is the very reason she didn't hesitate to bless Katiee. But guess what? If you ask Rachel, you’ll hear her say that she was the one who was truly blessed. 

So if you want to bless someone today, and I hope that you do, look for ways that you can share with others what God has given you generously my friend. And while that might be money, it could also be the gift of your time and/or your talents. Whatever it is, give as readily and plentifully as the Lord has given you and watch the blessings abound to both you and the recipient.

Heavenly Father, thank You for being faithful to provide for all our needs. Help us to be good stewards of all that we have Lord that we would both honor You as the Giver of all good things and bless others out of the abundance that we will declare is from You. May You receive all the glory. It’s in your precious name we pray. Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

The eye is the lamp of the body

"The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light." Matthew 6:22 BSB

In an article posted by Runner's World Monday titled, "Vitamin D May Protect Against Colorectal Cancer, New Research Finds," the following was reported: When it comes to health benefits, vitamin D is a standout—it’s been linked to lower incidence of depression and osteoporosis, most notably—and now a study in the journal Gastroenterology suggests reduced risk of colorectal (or colon) cancer might be added to the list. Researchers looked at data from nearly 95,000 women participating in the Nurses’ Health Study II, a long-term study focused on chronic disease prevention that collects information on nutrition and other health factors. Over a 24-year timespan, those who ate foods with higher amounts of vitamin D had a 50 percent lower risk of developing colorectal cancer, particularly when they were younger. “This suggests that vitamin D foods may be important for younger people as a way to prevent colorectal cancer, not just those who are older,” study co-author Kimmie Ng, M.D., director of the Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Center at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute told Runner’s World. This includes foods like salmon, cheese, fortified dairy products, beef liver, and egg yolks.

And, you know, as this research clearly indicated, what you and I put into our physical bodies has the power to protect or to harm our health. The same is true of our spiritual bodies too. Think about it. The things that we watch or allow ourselves to view affects the health of our spirit either positively or negatively. Matthew clearly understood this, which is why he referred to the eye as "the lamp of the body." You see, if our eyes are good, or always gazing on good, heavenly and godly things, our "whole body will be full of light" and we will shine as we are supposed to. Similarly if our eyes are always gazing on wicked, earthly, and ungodly things—-things like porn, graphic movies, immoral television shows, and violent video games—our bodies will be full of darkness. Darkness that will show up in our thoughts, moods, and behaviors.

So make every effort to diligently guard your eyes my friend. Vow to gaze only upon those things that, as I like to say to my kids, are pastor-proof. Which means... if you wouldn't watch it or look at it with your pastor sitting beside you, don’t watch it. This will keep eyes good and your spirit healthy so that you can brightly shine His light in a dark world. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that what we ingest with our eyes is just as important to our whole health as what we ingest with our mouths. Make us so sensitive to the Spirit’s heeding Lord that we would immediately recognize the things we should not be looking at so that we might turn away. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

People will be without love

"But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good," 2 Timothy 3:1-5 NIV

In a disturbing story titled, "15-year-old girl charged with murder in the death of runner," seattlepi reported the following: MAPLE VALLEY, Wash. (AP) — A 15-year-old SeaTac girl, who was driving a relative’s Toyota Camry without permission early on July 18, decided to “scare” and “bump” a jogger she saw running on the side of a rural road outside Maple Valley, King County prosecutors say. The girl and her 14-year-old passenger later laughed about the way the man — who has since been identified as Greg Moore, 53 — “flew over the car” when recounting the story to another teen, say criminal charges filed Tuesday, the Seattle Times reported. The 15-year-old driver, who turned herself in to King County sheriff’s detectives last week, was charged with second-degree felony murder and felony hit-and-run, according to charging papers. She is accused of killing Moore while attempting to commit the crime of second-degree assault, then fleeing the scene without rendering aid, the charges say. She remains in detention at the Children and Family Justice Center in Seattle. It wasn’t clear Tuesday whether an attorney had been named to represent her.

And you know, as shocking as this story is, I'm sure you're not surprised. I know I wasn't. Children that are "disobedient to their parents" and "without love" are fast becoming the norm right now. In fact, just as Paul said would happen in the last days, times he warned us would be terrible, more and more people are becoming "lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good..." And those are just a few of the things Paul warned us to look out for in people that can only be described as evil. Of these individuals, Paul said, "Have nothing to do with such people."

So be careful who you associate with my friend. Be mindful, cautious and vigilant about what you watch and who you emulate as well--knowing that immoral, ungodly and wicked people are not only out to deceive you but out to harm you emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually as well. Therefore, stand firm in your faith and stay immersed in the Word each and every day that you might be able to easily recognize these people and their ploys,  and then avoid them like the plague.  

Heavenly Father, thank You for preparing us for the period that is up ahead. Your Word clearly tells us what to expect in these last days so that we would not be frightened but prepared. Compel us to read and meditate on the Scriptures daily Lord that we would continually find the strength, discernment, and courage to stay faithful and fruitful as we live out these end times. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!! 

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION-No reason to be intimidated

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 can seriously deter a person's motivation to not only train for a race but to even show up to the event they’ve trained so hard for... intimidation, or the feeling or sense that a person is inferior to someone else for one reason or another. 

Okay, so I've said this before and I'll say it again. Runners come in all sizes, shapes, colors, weights, speeds and fitness levels— and comparison is not only the thief of joy but the thief of dreams. What do I mean by that? Well, just check out what local runner Bobbi McQueen said about her experience at the Bass Pro Fitness Series Run the Rock 10k on Saturday. This was her very first race and although she was able to overcome her hesitation and fear, she admitted to having thoughts of quitting, "As the sun rose standing at the start line of the Run the Rock 6 miler Bass Pro Race, I looked around and thought to myself I don’t belong here. I was completely intimidated." And here’s the rest of her story....

It was dark when I arrived. I was glad no one could see how nervous I was. I picked up my packet and shyly said that this was my first 10k. Everyone was so excited and encouraging that this was a beautiful course. I would love it. I thanked them and went confidently to wait for the race to begin. As the sun rose standing at the start line of the Run the Rock 6 miler Bass Pro Race, I looked around and thought to myself I don’t belong here. I was completely intimidated. Everyone looked like runners. I thought to myself I should just turn around and leave right now. I was silly to think I was a runner. But God, God had different plans. He sent my way the most amazing race director, Melissa Bondy. She introduced herself, encouraged me to do my best, and to enjoy the day no matter how long it took me. So, I stayed and gave it my best shot. The race began and runner after runner passed me until I was at the end of the pack. Jogging I kept up for a while until the first hill. Then, the pack pulled away. Huffing and puffing I climbed the first hill only to see the next hill waiting for me. This is going to be tough. Looking at the ground I just be put one foot in front of the other. I was about 2 miles in when I met the leaders of the race. Running confidently, they weren’t even really struggling with the hills. Doubt crept in again, the other runners followed but this time someone yelled, “You’re doing great and great job!” With their encouragement I pushed on. When I got to the lookout, the lake was beautiful and the water was refreshing. Halfway done. Yes! I can do this. I settled into a nice pace until those hills… I was 4.74 miles into the race when I nearly gave into the pain. My legs were burning, my heart rate barely had time to recover before the next hill and my heel was killing me. Praying, God reminded me of my 5th grade students. If I quit now, I would have to tell them on Monday when they asked about my race. Yikes! How would I ever have any credibility with them if I quit when it got hard? So, I told God, “You win. I will finish this.” I would like to tell you I picked up the pace and smiled the rest of the way but I didn’t. The end of the rock is… yup, you guessed uphill. Every step of the last quarter mile was brutal. I started to see other runners chatting and hanging at the finish line while I labored with every uphill step. I can and will finish. I turned the corner to the finish line. My legs were rubber. I trudged. Bobbi, finish strong. Jog! Jog! Jog! a voice screamed in my head. I mustered up the strength to jog the last 10 yards to the finish line where I crossed the line crying tears of joy and sheer exhaustion. People I didn’t know cheered and shouted how proud they were for me. I knew I was last, but I didn’t care at that moment. Crossing that finish line felt like a gold medal. Runners are a unique group of people with varying talents, but one thing is for sure they are some of the most amazing cheerleaders! Many asked me if I would “run” again. I am not a runner…yet. Now that few days have passed after the race, I can confidently say I will. Thanks Bass Pro!

Wow! Do you just love that or what? I know I do. I especially liked it when Bobbi said, "Praying, God reminded me of my 5th grade students. If I quit now, I would have to tell them on Monday when they asked about my race. Yikes! How would I ever have any credibility with them if I quit when it got hard?" Do you realize what Bobbi just did??? She set a precedent by refusing to quit when she first felt intimidated and then again when she felt like stopping. I'd say that makes her a runner wouldn't you? Did you hear that Bobbi? You ARE a runner!

Lisa with her daughter after a race in 2017

And speaking of runners, or people who refuse to quit, check out this next story from another local runner, Lisa Seachord. Lisa and I met at the Bass Pro Marathon Expo in 2016. This is what she wrote in 2017... Towards the end of last year (2016) I was at a Bass Pro event with my job at the time. Our booth was across from her booth. After I finished my time at our booth I decided to go over to see what her booth was all about. I met Melissa Martinez and spoke with her for a little bit and she was such a huge inspiration to me. I left the event inspired and excited! I had put some thought into what Melissa and I had talked about and I decided that I really wanted to get my life back on track... I’ve struggled for so long with my health and being happy with who I am and I wanted to change that. I have a now six-year-old daughter and I want her to be active and I want to be as good of a role model for her as I possibly can! I want her to enjoy the things I’ve struggled to enjoy due to my weight and health. The start of 2017 I decided to make a difference. I started getting involved with both virtual races as well as live events. I’ve done a race here and there in the past but never really got involved with them until now. I did my first live 5k on March 11th in Fayetteville, AR for Sign, speak, run and it was by far the toughest thing I had done!! It was cold, rainy and not only that to be 100% honest, I wasn’t in good shape at all, I was the heaviest person there. While waiting for the race to begin I just really started doubting myself, I mean I sure wasn’t a runner like all the others clearly were, why was I even doing this? I remember during the race crying and then having to fight hard to pull myself back together.

Lisa and her daughter at the end of one of our recent 5k Donut Runs-she's come a long way!

That was four years ago and I'm happy to report that, although Lisa has had her share of setbacks, she has completed many races since 2017. She is still running strong, is consistent, and is even set to participate in this weekend's OneSolePurpose 10k. This is all because she refused to give into intimidation. Notice I didn't say that she refused to feel intimidation, every runner will feel that from time to time. But she pressed on in spite of that feeling by remembering that runners come in all sizes, shapes, and speeds... something that you must remember as well if the fear of not "measuring up" is keeping you from running and/or racing. 

And last but not least, check out local runner Frances Ray. Three years ago I was blessed to be her Couch to 5k Coach and we became lifelong friends. Like Lisa, she was intimidated at first and has definitely had her ups and downs with keeping a consistent routine but she's back in business now!! And this is what Frances had to say about intimidation yesterday... I think the biggest thing is this: If I spend my time out there giving it all I have and I get in 4 miles and someone else gets 8 miles in that time it doesn't lessen what I did if I gave it my best effort. I couldn't have said it better myself Frances!

So there you have it friends. There's no reason to ever feel intimidated by someone else's speed, appearance or experience. Especially since, as Bobbie so eloquently put it, "Runners are a unique group of people with varying talents... and are some of the most amazing cheerleaders!" And runners cheer on other runners which means that we're all in it for the same reason... fun, food, fellowship and the finish line. And if we all share the same purpose, there's no reason to ever get discouraged just because someone might look a certain way or complete the race before you do. So get out there and smile as you go at your own pace. Then be your unique and beautiful self knowing that the other runners will be cheering you on every step of the way!

Happy Running!!!

Not ashamed

“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek.” Romans 1:16 BSB

“Hello!” my friend Christina messaged me yesterday morning. “I was reaching out because I am wanting to buy a running pack like what you wear but there are so many choices out there and can’t decide! I want to wear it for running but worry about chafing and comfort. Which one do you use and why?” “So glad you asked!!!” I responded. “Since these things are super expensive, having a personal testimony really helps. The link is below. I have several vests but this is my favorite. I actually bought it on the basis of a testimony from one of my close ultrarunning friends and was super happy with it.” And after listing a few more reasons of “why” I would highly recommend this particular hydration vest to her, I had to smile. Why? Because while I have influenced many runners to buy certain shoes, clothes, vests, or food (just as many runners have influenced me) by my shameless plugs and testimonies over the years, I have never ever been ashamed to share the gospel... something that I am confident has inspired many people to accept Jesus as their Savior.

And you know, as this story shows, our personal testimonies have the power to influence another person's decision to do something, something even as big as accepting Christ. Which is the very reason Paul declared that he was "not ashamed of the gospel” and unashamedly shared his testimony everywhere he went. You see, unlike many Christians today, Paul was bold in his witness—bold both because he had seen the “power of God” in his own life and, therefore, had a personal story of how it took him from being a sinner destined for death to being a sinner saved by grace and because he knew that only those who believed in Him would have this same salvation that came from hearing and believing in the gospel. And how can they hear unless someone tells them right? Paul lived to tell them!

So, like Paul, be bold in sharing the Good News with others today my friend. Be completely unashamed in telling them the reason why you chose to follow Jesus and why they should too. Your personal testimony could very well save their lives. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that if we are to impact a world for You, we must be willing to step out of our comfort zones to openly and without guilt or embarrassment share the gospel with a dogged determination like Paul’s. Compel us to do this Lord. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

He is the Fixer of all problems

"And they were saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?” And looking up, they saw that the stone had been rolled back—it was very large." Mark 16:3-4 ESV

Like many other proud American runners around our great nation, I set out early Saturday morning to log 9.11 miles in honor of the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives on the morning of 9/11/01 when 19 terrorists from the Islamist extreme group al Qaeda hijacked four commercial aircraft and used them to crash into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. So with my large flag in tow, I decided to run a route where Old Glory could be seen and appreciated. And if you've ever carried a sizeable American flag while running, you know that you have to pay careful attention to make sure it never touches the ground... something I was finding a bit hard to do when the ponytail holder fell out of my braid three miles into the run. With my tresses flying in my face, I silently prayed, "Lord, I really really need a hair tie to keep the hair out of my eyes." And guess what? The Lord not only heard my prayer but answered it. Immediately after bringing my seemingly small problem to God, I slowed down to a walk and looked down. There, in the middle of a remote gravel side road, was a hair tie that was good as new after I picked it up and brushed off a little dirt. Smiling as I fought back tears, I solemnly said, "Thank you Lord. Thank You."

And you know, I couldn't help but grin when I realized that God had (once again) provided a solution to one of my problems before I knew I would even have the problem. Is that amazing or what? And if you think that God can only work out the small difficulties in our lives, consider the story that the women who went to anoint Jesus’ body after He had been crucified and laid in the tomb might have told. As they approached it, they realized they would have a problem, "Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?" they said to one another. But guess what? Their problem had already been solved. The stone that was described as "very large" had already been rolled back. They just had to look up to see it. You can just bet that caused them to smile right?

So whether your problem is seemingly small or "very large" today, look up my friend. Look up to the One who knows what you need before you need it and then trust Him to work it out. He is so very good like that. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for caring about the seemingly small problems we have and also about the ones that are very large. Lord, please cause us to remember that there is nothing You can't do and that there is no worry, difficulty, dilemma, trouble, or mess that you can't fix. You are the Fixer of all things and You are good. Thank You for the simple reminders You give us each and every day of that fact. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

We have all missed the mark

"for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus," Romans 3:23-24 ESV

In an article posted by Runner's World Tuesday titled, "Symptoms of Low Protein-and how to get more into Your Diet," the need for runners to take in more of this valuable nutrient than the average person was explained by sports nutritionist Leslie Bonci, M.P.H., owner of Active Eating Advice. Regarded as one of the building blocks of life, protein makes everything. Each and every cell contains the essential amino acids that make up this macronutrient. You need it for muscle repair, immune system function, healthy blood, strong bones, and more. According to the Dietary Reference Intake report, sedentary adults should get 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily, or about 0.4 grams per pound. “But that number is not based on an active person—certainly not a runner. The ideal range for runners can be twice that amount.” Indeed, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends 1.2 to 2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight a day for athletes, depending on training, with the protein spaced throughout the day and after workouts. Research shows that regularly getting about 1.6 grams per kilogram per day “promotes favorable muscle adaptations to exercise training.” Bonci went on to describe the negative effects of not consuming enough protein and gave this advice, "If you’re having trouble hitting the mark, or you don’t feel like eating a plate of beans after a long run, especially during heavy training weeks, protein powders can help."

And you know, when it comes to hitting the mark or achieving perfection in our Christian walk, the Bible tells us clearly that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." That means (unlike in horseshoes and hand grenades where merely getting close to the target is counted as success) you and I must perfectly hit the bullseye to meet the requirement to be saved—something we all fall short of doing. Thankfully though, the Bible is also clear that we "are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." Do you understand what that means? Because of God's unmerited (meaning we don't deserve it and could do nothing to earn it) favor, you and I were given a gift (again something we don't deserve and could never earn)... the gift of redemption or salvation from our sins. Is that amazing or what? You and I totally missed the mark but God loves us anyway. 

So I urge you my friend, in light of what you have been given, to tell everyone you know about this amazing gift that they too can receive by simply choosing to accept Jesus Christ (the one who redeemed "all" by His death on the cross) as their Lord and Savior today. I promise that they will be eternally grateful to you for having shared the Good News with them. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us in spite of our sins so much that You would send your Son to die for us so that we could have eternal life. Cause us to understand what a true and unmerited gift this is Lord that we might be compelled to live our lives in such a way that would honor You, the Giver of the gift. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Continually renew your mind

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Romans 12:2 NIV

In an article posted in Runners World subtitled, “Here’s another reason to go for a run in the fresh air when you can,” the author wrote: As runners, we all enjoy the sun on our face and wind in our hair. Now, according to recent research published in The World Journal of Biological Psychiatry, we can add an increase in grey matter to the benefits of a run outside, because logging your miles in the fresh air literally remodels your brain. The researchers found that, regardless of all the other factors, time outdoors—even small amounts—was linked to greater grey matter volume in the DLPFC part of the brain. The more time outdoors, the higher the grey matter. “Our results show that our brain structure and mood improve when we spend time outdoors. This most likely also affects concentration, working memory, and the psyche as a whole,” Simone Kühn, Ph.D., head of the Lise Meitner Group for Environmental Neuroscience at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development and lead author of the study, said in a press release. Wow! Improved brain structure and mood? Is that a great reason to get outside or what?

And you know, when it comes to the structure of our brains and the patterns of our thoughts, the Bible clearly tells us that you and I are not to “conform to the pattern of this world” but to be “transformed by the renewing of” our minds. That means that we are NOT to think or behave according to the world's socially acceptable conventions or standards, but to think and behave according to God’s perfect and acceptable standards set forth in the Word—standards that we must study and meditate on daily so that we will “be able to test and approve what God’s will is" and follow it. Doing so will not only improve our mood (living for Christ always does) but will set us apart as believers; something this world needs to see now more than ever.

So resign yourself to be set apart my friend... in your thoughts, in your actions, and in your speech. Spend time in prayer, Bible study and meditation daily so that your mind will be continually renewed and you will be further and further transformed into the image of Christ... an image others will see and be drawn to.

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that we are not to be like the world in any way, shape or form. Give us such a yearning for your Word each and every day that training in it would be our first priority, training that would set us apart. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Running!!!

BASS PRO MIDWEEK MOTIVATION - The power of Encouragement

Hello runner friends!

Welcome back to the Bass Pro Fitness Series

MIDWEEK M😊TIVATI😊N blog!

From left to right: Shelly, Jill, Ed, Gretchen, Larry, Melissa, Rebecca, Sumiko

Now let's get started by talking about the power of encouragement. But first, let's look at what encouragement really is. As defined, when you help someone by offering positive words of hope, support and approval, that's encouragement. Within the word encouragement we see the word "courage," which means the ability to face danger and deal with it or the ability to find the inner means to press on to overcome an obstacle. To encourage, then, is to help develop those abilities in someone, while the "ment" at the end makes that development into a noun, the act of giving hope, help, courage or support to another. 

So now that you understand that encouragement is simply giving courage, hope, approval or support to another person, let's look at how something that is free, easy to give but priceless to its’ receiver can quite literally make all the difference in a person's decision to give up or go on. And what better way to illustrate that than by eliciting the input from some of the greatest runners and encouragers I've ever been blessed to know... people that inspired me to cross the finish line at an ultra marathon on Saturday and who I, in turn, inspired to do the same. That's the great thing about encouragement though, it's almost always a two-way street. And you know the other great thing about it? When you encourage someone else, you can't help but be encouraged yourself. So here we go with a few stories from some amazing runners at the Katy Trail 50M/50K....

I had the pleasure to be running next to Nathan and Joe, two runners I've never met before but became like brothers. Most of the time during race I start with people and then I am alone on the journey to the finish line talking to myself, rocks, and squirrels. It's mentally exhausting, very easy to listen to pain stop running and begin walking. They didn’t let me stop. I don’t think I would have finished without them or the people I ran into along the way. I remember I saw Ed and wanted to cry because my foot was killing me and (he can read me pretty well) he told me to keep going so I did. And as soon as I saw Rebecca, I got in turbo mode because I would not have been at this race if it wasn’t for her—winning was for her. The aid stations are my saviors, especially when I needed ibuprofen so bad that one of the runners husband's provided. They were just my biggest blessing that day. - Jenni Sherman

In the beginning I had a very strong 18 miles. Knowing that my friend Shelley was going to go ahead and kick butt all day…I went ahead and fell back into some misery of stomach issues and dehydration. I honestly believe if I would not have caught up with Ed and Melissa and then later Gretchen and Ashley that I would still have been walking on that trail 24 hours later. I know i would’ve taken my first DNF (Did Not Finish) if it wasn’t for them. Running with positive people can really change your day no matter how bad it is. Just listening to their encouragement of other runners and their singing and their stupid hilarious antics... it could have made anyone feel better. Seeing the way peoples’ eyes lit up when they saw Melissa and her Ginormous American flag helped a lot as well! I definitely owe this 50 mile finish to my friends and their kind words and conversation. - Jill Brockman

Encouraging and helping others is not only good for them but makes us happier too. Sometimes, I feel, that a person can't see their greatness and potential the way I see them…. So I just let them know in my own non-filtered way with loving support and encouraging words and actions that they have what it takes! - Ashley Moniz (who came out to encourage, crew and pace)

If it wasn’t for all of my friends I knew before I started that race and all the ones I ended up with during and after, it would have been a completely different experience for me. It was so wonderful seeing so many familiar faces out there and I remember thinking as I was heading toward the Klondike aid station “I should start seeing people coming back from the turnaround soon that will be good." Sure enough, I soon saw Jenni’s beautiful smiling face and she gave me a big ol’ high five and told me how great I was doing. I came upon Larry later and we exchanged a huge mid-trail hug and told each other how awesome we were! Then Taryn came down the trail with her beautiful smile and I was so happy to see her too! At the turnaround I ran into Jill, Ed and Melissa. It meant so much to me to have these people who I respect and admire so much tell me I was doing a great job. When you are out there on the trail alone for hours and miles at a time you begin to wonder lol. Every aid station had amazing people who told you how great you were doing too, and laughed and joked and you left feeling like you could go for a little bit longer. Rebecca did an amazing job of supporting everyone and making sure we all got what we needed In a nutshell, if it had not been for all of the amazing people and their kind positive words the race could have turned out much differently for me. I am so blessed to have all of you guys, and I am still smiling and savoring every moment of it four days later - Gretchen Pewett

It’s hard to put into words why you’d ever want to manage a far-running event. It feels like planning a wedding for a hundred people you don’t actually know. You guess the demands, field the questions, try to add in surprises all while attempting to control the three biggest pieces to the puzzle — no one can get lost, timing has to be perfect and volunteers have to be selfless. It’s stress inducing and you doubt you’ve done enough multiple times throughout the process. But, just like training, the hard work will pay off every time. In the end, as people cross the finish line…one that you planned…and you place a medal over their heads…one that you designed…and you ask how their experience was…one you’ve sweated for 8 months out of your year…the answer is there. It’s not tangible, it’s not exactly explainable, and it’s not really about you at all. Leading up to every event, we swear it will be the last…but then, the finish line. It’s the cake you’ve been baking, it’s Christmas morning, it’s the reason. It’s why we started considering the 2022 Katy 50/50 today. - Meghan McCarrick, Race Director (who I thanked for directing this event where so many memories were made)

I signed up for Katy 50/50 50 miles distance the day after I ran 40 miles around Springfield with a group of awesome women. Jill reached out and said "you should come do Katy with Ed and I. I know you can do it." With adrenaline still coursing through my veins from the day before and that little push of confidence I said "heck yeah!" and signed up. As the date approached, self-doubt started to set in. This would be my longest distance ran EVER. But then I got out of my own way and thought "you can do this, you can do hard things!" So Saturday morning I checked my sanity at the start line and took off. Rain set in around mile 4 and didn't stop until around mile 45. Jill and I ran together for the first 18 miles. I started to get into a groove and Jill looked at me and said "go run your race, you've got this." And that was all I needed. I loved the format of this race, out and back. Every time I would pass Jill, Ed, Melissa, and Gretchen there were so many high fives, hugs, and "you've got this!" yells to each other. The camaraderie by all the participants was palpable, all of us pushing and driving each other to keep going and not give up. To top it off, the volunteers were TOP NOTCH! By the last 2 aid stations they were literally running toward me yelling "what do you need?!?" so that it would be ready when I got there. I can't wait to see my ugly crying finish line pics. - Shelly Skeins-Stout

Larry (in blue) waiting to start

For running my first 50K it was a great experience!!! There were several things that kept me going as I started to have bad hip pain. One of things that definitely kept me going was God. He gave me the strength to continue to press on by seeing the joy in everyone! There were smiles and people giving each other encouragement. I remember on my way back I saw Ed. I yelled Ed!!! Ed smiled and encouraged me. Then shortly after that, I saw Gretchen and we hugged each other and gave each other encouragement. Then I saw Melissa, and she smiled and asked me how I was doing. She told me that I was doing really good and then called to check on me throughout the race because she knew I added a lot miles in a short time and was dealing with my hip pain. Seeing Rebecca and Ashley cheering me on helped too. You see, we all impacted each other out there in some way or another, which kept us going. Our actions spoke louder then words. After the race, a guy that ran the 50k as well told me that I had kept him going. He told me that after I passed him and told him he was doing good and to just keep moving, he kept his eye on me and told himself that he just needed to keep continue keeping his sight on me! I thought to myself WOW! I think we all did that for someone out there running that race and as well as in life. I will tell you that I’m definitely hooked on Ultra Running!!! Going to do 50 miles in November!! - Larry Sharp

As a long-time runner, I have learned that the more joyful a person's heart and the more positive their mind is, the better they are able to overcome the pain and adversity that must be conquered to cover long-distances. And quite honestly both the heart and the mind are fed by constant encouragement... either from inner encouragement, which is a learned practice where a person keeps a cheerful and happy mindset by the thoughts they allow themselves to think, or from outward encouragement where the heart and mind are fed by the words and actions of others. And while both have power, outward encouragement can fan the flames of hope when a person's inner encouragement wanes... something that inevitably happened to me and so many of my other friends at Saturday's 50-mile race. I can't add much to what my friends already said about it except for this... the encouragement I received from them inspired me to give it right back and inspired all of us to make to the finish line. Like ping-pong (Forrest Gump's favorite game remember?), the cheering and rallying went on all day (back and forth back and forth), and was most definitely the key (as everyone attested) to the group's success. - Melissa Martinez

So there you have it friends, encouragement indeed has the power to cause someone to go on rather than give up. So knowing that that someone could very well be you, give it and spread it as often as you can confident that encouraging words and actions are like ping-pong balls that you hit to your friends... they will hit them back to you which is a win-win for everyone.

Happy Running!!!