Checking Back In: Hi, October!

Ooooh, hello again, everyone! It’s been much too long.

I clocked out of the blogging world for a couple (unplanned) weeks, but I think it’s time to pour more attention into this little corner of the internet.

In the days after my first half marathon, I enjoyed sleeping in when I was normally running and reveled in the sense of accomplishment that came with crossing a big goal off my list. Thank you to everyone for the congratulations + well wishes! It meant so much.

Near the end of that first week, Alex and I received news that his incredible grandfather, Reverend Gerald Labuhn, passed away in hospice. We flew home the next day to Ohio to remember his long, wonderful life and see our families.

Amid the memorial services, I was able to run my first post-half miles on my favorite hometown trails, hug my friends, and take a quick trip to a local apple orchard for pumpkin donuts and cider. I think a loved one’s death is an opportunity to celebrate their life, and remember that you still have one to fill with what and who you love.

What else is new? Wedding planning! We have a date! And a location! I’ll spill once those deposit checks are safely in the mail by the end of the week…haha. During that planning process (which consequently included making a budget, guest list, etc.), I have seriously considered elopement at least a half dozen times, and Alex and I have asked ourselves numerous times, “What did we get ourselves into?!”

On the running front, I’m in week #3 post-half. I went on one 5K run in the week immediately following my race but primarily focused on a little yoga, stretching and one strength session that left me really, really sore. However, I was able to run four times last week with a minute vs. mileage goal, and that’s been a positive experience after thinking so strictly about the number of miles needed to run during training. I’ve been following this recovery plan.

I missed the Clarendon Day races due to our trip home, but the following week, I received the opportunity to run the Dirty Damsel from MCM Mama Runs. I was so excited, but Hurricane Joaquin cancelled that trail race. As a result, racing hasn’t filled my weekends as much as I wanted this month, but I’m still running and training – working toward the next big thing.

What have you been racing this month? Apple cinnamon or pumpkin donuts?