As the late summer days slip away, we are all anticipating the new schedules and activities that the fall brings. As a homeschooling mom, mid-August is a time for planning and organizing all the lessons and materials for Katerina’s school year. I also plan for her afternoon classes – everything from bible class to music and dance lessons. Keeping track of everybody’s schedule while maintaining my sanity has become a form of art (one I’m not quite sure I’ve mastered).
This fall will be a little different from past years. Not only will we have to deal with the demands of homeschooling, parenting and work, but also with the demands of the rigorous running program that Adrian and I are following. Unlike the novice marathon program that we just completed, our new training involves more intensity, the addition of speed work and yes, longer hours on our feet. That translates into earlier wake-up calls and shorter nights in order to get everything done. We know there are going to be tough days ahead, but feel more than ready to take on the challenge.
After finishing sub-4:00 hr on our first marathon in San Francisco, July 26, 2009, we were motivated to take on 2 more marathons: Rock ‘n Roll San Antonio and Chevron Houston. We are focused on setting PRs (personal records) in order to qualify for the world-famous Boston Marathon by 2011 (or sooner).
Yes, these are ambitious goals for a pair of folks who started running a mere 7 months ago. All this thanks to our friends Tom and Maxine Yunker, whose talk of their own marathon experiences inspired us to take on this new lifestyle. Now that we’ve run a marathon, we know that we can keep pushing the limits…physically, mentally and even emotionally, to get a deeper sense of our true potential. It’s not every day that we find the courage to assume daunting challenges, so we are grateful for the inspiration and encouragement that came along at just the right time.
It might be natural to fear the unknown – to shy away from difficult choices and actions. But anyone who has ever persevered knows that the payoff, however intangible, is incredibly reaffirming. As someone who seeks out challenges and new experiences, I feel excited to commence this new chapter in life.
I know that Katerina will thrive in third grade, growing and maturing with each passing day. Adrian will work to achieve his personal and professional goals. And together we will help each other break down the barriers that seem to stand in the way of our dreams.
Working towards your own big dream? Share it with us!
