What motivates you?

The first weekend of March I successfully finished my second marathon, the Gasparilla Marathon. 26.2 miles have a uniqueness of their own.... It all started on Friday as I traveled to my old stomping ground in Tampa, Florida. I was able to catch up with my mom there. It was nice being able to spend time with the women that inspires me daily to be a good person and work hard to achieve my goals. We spent the weekend together as I prepared for my marathon.
Race morning finally rolled around and it was my time to shine! I woke up before the sun and started the journey. It was 70 degrees and humid at the start.

The marathon started and the large mass of individuals began to stroll down Bayshore Blvd. to Davis Island. The first 6 miles were on the small island, running pass the channel, the airport and the large homes that line Davis Island. Those miles were perfect!

After leaving Davis Island we ran passed my old University where all the memories started flood my brain....I honestly can't remember miles 7 to 11 because of all the thoughts that were coming in out. I was in a happy little running world :o)

At about mile 13 is when it started to turn. Not my running but rather the weather... I looked up and the sky was black I was thinking what am I suppose to do at a time like this. Just keep running I guess, no one else was stopping. So I continued on through the 20 mph gusts of wind, the 10 degree temperature drop and the down pour of rain.

So the question was asked, "What motivates you in a time like this?"

Perhaps the fact that the fans were still out cheering, my inspiring play list on my ipod, seeing my mom at the many mile markers cheering, maybe the fact I was so happy to be in Tampa, or perhaps the simple fact that I love tackling challenges and 26.2 miles in crazy weather was just that!

While out on the course I learned a lot about myself. I learned that in tough situations we have two choices. Give up and go home or stand up and challenge it. Face the challenge, preserver and go after what you came out to do.

I was proud when I finished, unlike my last marathon where I struggled the last few miles this time was different as I negative split my final 6 miles.

When I crossed the finish line I smiled... I was proud of myself, I set out to go after a goal and accomplished it stronger than I thought I could. So what motivates me?

Perhaps that day it was the smile of satisfaction!

keep on runnin' -Kim