This weekend Shannon, TJ, and I ran our long-awaited half marathon and let me tell you, it was a challenge! While Shannon is a seasoned veteran when it comes to half marathons, and TJ is certainly getting to that point, I was the sole rookie of the group. I never even had any interest in running a half marathon until about nine months ago when I reached a point in my life where I was beginning to feel that I needed a goal-a challenge- in my life. I needed something that I could work towards, that would seriously challenge me mentally and physically, so I set my eyes on the Santa Barbara Wine Country Half Marathon. I felt like I had never really done something to truly challenge me to the point where I wanted to give up. I needed something that would make me question whether or not I could do it, and then be able to prove to myself that I could. And guess what, I did!

I’ve NEVER been a runner. Ever. Ask any of my long time friends, and running ONE mile [literally] was sufficient for my cardiovascular workout for the week. So running 13.1 sounded painstakingly…painful. But the feeling of accomplishment after this ridiculously hilly course was beyond worth it (and the wine tasting the rest of the day certainly was motivating around mile 6!). There is truly something about challenging yourself and pushing your mind and body to its limits that is so incredibly gratifying: it makes you feel alive and as if you really can do anything you set your mind to.  So I encourage everyone: CHALLENGE YOURSELF!! And get support too-tell people about your goal(s)! The support I had from my friends and family, especially Shannon and TJ, was probably the single most important and encouraging element of this entire journey. Plus, it helped keep me accountable and motivated. Try it, you won’t believe what you can do!

Thanks for reading!

-Allison