On June 16th I began my official training for the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon.  The marathon takes place one day before my 44th birthday, October 5, 2014!!!  I am VERY excited to run this race on behalf of Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation.

During my weeks of training, I hit a few bumps in the road along the way.  Despite having run 2 marathons in the last few years, there were many moments I thought to myself, I will not be able to do this.  Then I had to remind myself WHY I committed myself to the marathon, ALSF!  There have been a few challenges along the way, as there is for most who take on a marathon.  My dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer back in April.  He spent the following 4+ months in the hospital.  Many days and weekends were spent visiting and sleeping at the hospital when I could.  My dad unfortunately passed away on August 14th.  I had no energy to run during those couple of weeks but got through what I knew that I needed to, the weekly long runs.

Shortly after his death, I competed in a half marathon.  Nothing more frustrating than a self-inflicted injury!  I laced my shoes too tight and caused a bruise on the top of my foot.  I literally could not take 10 steps in my running shoes the following couple of days.  I even tried barefoot running!  LOL  Well after a couple of weeks, my foot is almost healed and I'm back to my training program.

My husband and my 4 kids (ages 14, 12, 9, and 7) kept me going those days I wanted to give up.  The kids took turns running many miles over the summer with me, the 2 older boys followed me on their bikes when it was getting dark, and my husband promised me a couple of beers after I completed some of those more grueling runs! Great motivation!  :)

The kids and I hosted a couple of lemonade stands over the summer.  In addition, my arrogant 14 year old son was foolish enough to bet me he could beat me in a 5 mile race.  I of course took that challenge.  14 year old vs. mom!  He had quite a few supporters.  Happy to report I raised over $100 in that race due to him conceding around mile 3!  He didn't like losing but was a good sport.

I would love to see you cheering me on as I run Milwaukee's Lakefront Marathon, specifically around mile 20/21, that's where I'll need encouragement the most!
 

Many thanks for your support.

Paulette