Wow! Life sure is overwhelming! The milage has ramped up, school is in full swing, Girls On the Run has started, and it is football season. All these things chew away at my time and energy. Just when I feel like it is not worth it and it is all too much....amazing things happen to remind me what is important.
Today is the birthday of my youngest daughter. It is a day filled with music, treats and balloons. She is the light in my eyes. She has a spark and an edge that challenge me on my best and worst days. She has a smile that can light up a room. She has a spirit that never gives up and never gives in. She has a positive body image and positive outlook that I have never possessed. She has the most tender heart and a soft spirit that endear her to everyone around her. She is such a gift to me. I am blessed every day to be her mother.
My children never cease to amaze me. Each and every day is new and different. They are growing and changing faster than I would like most days but they are becoming such wonderful human beings that it is hard to believe they are my children.
There are times when I feel so overwhelmed by life and all that it takes to get through a day......then something wonderful happens. Most times it is a minor thing that only I notice but it is there...a sign that it is worth it....every day is worth it.
So when life gets overwhelming...look for the little things....every day IS worth it!
Friday, September 17, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Life is in the journey, not the destination
Life is in the journey, not the destination, so do what you can and take it one day at a time. Go slow, do it right, and make your changes permanent — then help out others who are where you were.
Friday, August 13, 2010
When the going gets tough....
Last week marked the half way point in my training program. Now is when the going gets tough.
The miles ramp up and the reality that the marathon is only but a few short weeks away sets in. This is the time that the training program tests you. This is the time that you need to really focus on the end result. This is the time when the nagging doubt sets in. This is the time that things get tough.
This training season has been very different for me. I am training with a group on the weekends and am learning about my pace and enjoying the company of other runners. I am doing more cross training and walking on days off. I am doing more runs on the treadmill to work on speed and pace. I am more aware of my eating habits and food intake...what works and what doesn't. I feel slower but stronger than last year.
Last week was tough. I did not want to run. It was no fun. It was sheer work. It was torture some days to get through the miles. I had to keep my eyes on the prize so to speak. I got through each mile but they were not pleasant nor meaningful.....or so I thought!
I did some reflecting on those tough miles last week and realized that I had felt the same way during other parts of my life for example the last month of pregnancy as well as miles 20-24 of last years marathon. Miserable...no end in sight....no way out. Quitting not an option.
These are the times that test you. Test your fortitude. Test your strength both mental and physical. Test your heart and soul.
When the going gets tough.......I run.
The miles ramp up and the reality that the marathon is only but a few short weeks away sets in. This is the time that the training program tests you. This is the time that you need to really focus on the end result. This is the time when the nagging doubt sets in. This is the time that things get tough.
This training season has been very different for me. I am training with a group on the weekends and am learning about my pace and enjoying the company of other runners. I am doing more cross training and walking on days off. I am doing more runs on the treadmill to work on speed and pace. I am more aware of my eating habits and food intake...what works and what doesn't. I feel slower but stronger than last year.
Last week was tough. I did not want to run. It was no fun. It was sheer work. It was torture some days to get through the miles. I had to keep my eyes on the prize so to speak. I got through each mile but they were not pleasant nor meaningful.....or so I thought!
I did some reflecting on those tough miles last week and realized that I had felt the same way during other parts of my life for example the last month of pregnancy as well as miles 20-24 of last years marathon. Miserable...no end in sight....no way out. Quitting not an option.
These are the times that test you. Test your fortitude. Test your strength both mental and physical. Test your heart and soul.
When the going gets tough.......I run.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
The Main Reasons I Train/Run a Marathon
the main rasons I train for and run a marathon are clear to me....now I would like to share them with you. My training has been a long, difficult road but nothing compared to the road a parent of a child with special gifts walks each and every day. I am running this Marathon for many reasons. I am running to raise funds for the Alexander Leigh Center for Autism and Girls On The Run. I am running to raise awareness of autism. I am running for every girl’s positive self image. I am running to honor my hero, Kelly Weaver, her daughter, Gillian Weaver, and all other children with special gifts, as well as all girls everywhere.
I am running to raise funds for the Alexander Leigh Center for Autism and Girls On The Run. Here is where I really need your help. Both charities are in need of financial assistance. My goal is to raise $1,000 for each charity.
You can make a donation directly to the school here
http://www.firstgiving.org/alca1
Donations to Girls On The Run may be made directly at this site. http://www.active.com/donate/SoleMates2011/KNader10
Please be sure to mention my name when making your donation!
To learn more about the school, please visit their website www.alexanderleighcenterforautism.com
To learn more about Girls On The Run go to www.gotrchicago.org
I am running to raise awareness of autism. Did you know that one out of every 150 children born this year will be diagnosed with autism? Did you know more children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined? Autism costs the nation 90 billion dollars per year and the cost of lifelong care can be reduced by 2/3 with early diagnosis and intervention. There is no medical detection or cure for autism.
I am running for every girl’s positive self image. Girls on the Run is a life-changing, experiential learning program for girls age eight to thirteen years old. The program combines training for a 3.1 mile running event with self-esteem enhancing, uplifting workouts. The goal of the program is to encourage positive emotional, social, mental, spiritual and physical development. Girls on the Run promotes physical as well as emotional, mental and character development. The girls complete the program with a stronger sense of identity, a greater acceptance of themselves, a healthier body image and an understanding of what it means to be part of a team. As a coach for two seasons, I have seen the positive outcomes of this program. These girls inspire me!
I am running to honor my hero, Kelly Weaver, her daughter, Gillian Weaver, and all other children with special gifts. Eleven year old Gillian Weaver is autistic. Gillian’s father, Kevin Weaver, passed away from an undiagnosed brain tumor when Gilly was very young. Kelly, now a single mom, has opened a school for Gillian and other autistic children. The Alexander Leigh Center for Autism was founded by Dorie Hoevel and Kelly Weaver, who are both parents of children with autism. These two dedicated mothers have created a place where children can reach their full individual potential, in a caring and safe environment, a place where each child's differences are what make them special.
I run for each of my own children, the children I teach, the children that face frustration of autism, the children who doubt themselves, all children who daily face challenges no matter how big or small. As some of you know, music is a large part of my life. I am going to compile a playlist of musical inspiration to keep me moving during my long runs and workouts. I want to be reminded of each and every reason I run. If you have a song you think would be a good addition, let me know!
Last but not least, I would ask for your prayers. I would ask that you pray for The Alexander Leigh Center for Autism, that this school will continue to be a place where each child can reach their full potential. I ask that you pray for the young women who participate in Girls On The Run that they gain a strong sense of identity. I would ask that you pray for my children as well as the children I teach, that they may grow in wisdom and understanding. I would ask that you pray for all runners and me on race day so that we finish safely. Finally, I would ask that you pray not only for children with special gifts, but their parents as well. They all face challenges each and every day that many of us will never know nor understand.
Please forward this link on to anyone that might want to help!
I am running to raise funds for the Alexander Leigh Center for Autism and Girls On The Run. Here is where I really need your help. Both charities are in need of financial assistance. My goal is to raise $1,000 for each charity.
You can make a donation directly to the school here
http://www.firstgiving.org/alca1
Donations to Girls On The Run may be made directly at this site. http://www.active.com/donate/SoleMates2011/KNader10
Please be sure to mention my name when making your donation!
To learn more about the school, please visit their website www.alexanderleighcenterforautism.com
To learn more about Girls On The Run go to www.gotrchicago.org
I am running to raise awareness of autism. Did you know that one out of every 150 children born this year will be diagnosed with autism? Did you know more children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined? Autism costs the nation 90 billion dollars per year and the cost of lifelong care can be reduced by 2/3 with early diagnosis and intervention. There is no medical detection or cure for autism.
I am running for every girl’s positive self image. Girls on the Run is a life-changing, experiential learning program for girls age eight to thirteen years old. The program combines training for a 3.1 mile running event with self-esteem enhancing, uplifting workouts. The goal of the program is to encourage positive emotional, social, mental, spiritual and physical development. Girls on the Run promotes physical as well as emotional, mental and character development. The girls complete the program with a stronger sense of identity, a greater acceptance of themselves, a healthier body image and an understanding of what it means to be part of a team. As a coach for two seasons, I have seen the positive outcomes of this program. These girls inspire me!
I am running to honor my hero, Kelly Weaver, her daughter, Gillian Weaver, and all other children with special gifts. Eleven year old Gillian Weaver is autistic. Gillian’s father, Kevin Weaver, passed away from an undiagnosed brain tumor when Gilly was very young. Kelly, now a single mom, has opened a school for Gillian and other autistic children. The Alexander Leigh Center for Autism was founded by Dorie Hoevel and Kelly Weaver, who are both parents of children with autism. These two dedicated mothers have created a place where children can reach their full individual potential, in a caring and safe environment, a place where each child's differences are what make them special.
I run for each of my own children, the children I teach, the children that face frustration of autism, the children who doubt themselves, all children who daily face challenges no matter how big or small. As some of you know, music is a large part of my life. I am going to compile a playlist of musical inspiration to keep me moving during my long runs and workouts. I want to be reminded of each and every reason I run. If you have a song you think would be a good addition, let me know!
Last but not least, I would ask for your prayers. I would ask that you pray for The Alexander Leigh Center for Autism, that this school will continue to be a place where each child can reach their full potential. I ask that you pray for the young women who participate in Girls On The Run that they gain a strong sense of identity. I would ask that you pray for my children as well as the children I teach, that they may grow in wisdom and understanding. I would ask that you pray for all runners and me on race day so that we finish safely. Finally, I would ask that you pray not only for children with special gifts, but their parents as well. They all face challenges each and every day that many of us will never know nor understand.
Please forward this link on to anyone that might want to help!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
What are you going to be today?
Running is a big question mark that's there each and every day. It asks you, 'Are you going to be a wimp or are you going to be strong today?'
Peter Maher
Today I was stronger than usual. I got up and out of bed early....that was the hard part. Getting dressed and ready for a run once I had left the comfort of my bed was not too difficult. Once out on the pavement and with a buddy, the miles just ticked away. Just 3 today in the thick early morning air...but 3 more to add to the bank that gets this mind and body ready for October.
Training for this marathon has been different in so many ways from last year. Joining a group, creating new relationships with other runners, and seeing a new perspective on training have been just a few of the benefits. I was so keyed into my training last year that I had to run every mile by the book...never long and never short. I am beginning to realize that every run is one that adds to the bank and, while not every run is a good run, they all add up. I am also learning more about myself and my pace. I am learning to listen to my body more than ever. I am learning that rest is good. Rest is important... I do not have to be doing something every minute of the day! One of the biggest things I have realized is that running does not CLEAR my head....running allows me to sort through things in order to be a better mom, wife, friend, teacher....
I already know that I am strong enough to run a marathon...once....however, am I strong enough to run a marathon a second or third time? Only time will tell but for today I was strong...strong enough to get out of bed and run!
Peter Maher
Today I was stronger than usual. I got up and out of bed early....that was the hard part. Getting dressed and ready for a run once I had left the comfort of my bed was not too difficult. Once out on the pavement and with a buddy, the miles just ticked away. Just 3 today in the thick early morning air...but 3 more to add to the bank that gets this mind and body ready for October.
Training for this marathon has been different in so many ways from last year. Joining a group, creating new relationships with other runners, and seeing a new perspective on training have been just a few of the benefits. I was so keyed into my training last year that I had to run every mile by the book...never long and never short. I am beginning to realize that every run is one that adds to the bank and, while not every run is a good run, they all add up. I am also learning more about myself and my pace. I am learning to listen to my body more than ever. I am learning that rest is good. Rest is important... I do not have to be doing something every minute of the day! One of the biggest things I have realized is that running does not CLEAR my head....running allows me to sort through things in order to be a better mom, wife, friend, teacher....
I already know that I am strong enough to run a marathon...once....however, am I strong enough to run a marathon a second or third time? Only time will tell but for today I was strong...strong enough to get out of bed and run!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
In Memory....
Today's nasty, hot, muggy, sweat, miserable 5 mile run was dedicated to the memory of PO Thor Soderberg who was killed in the line of duty yesterday. My discomfort was nothing compared to the loss and discomfort his wife, family and friends feel at this time.
People ask how the wives and families of police, firefighters, military personnel and other first responders do it...how they live with the fear. I can speak for myself when I say that I put it out of my mind. I trust my husband and his partners to keep each other safe. It is nights like last night that bring the fear back home. When the phone rings late at night my hair stands up on the back of my neck. I worry....always....but put it out of my mind to get through the day. If I let the worry and fear consume me, I would never leave the house. I pray...a lot....for all those who put their lives on the line each and every day to keep us safe and protect our freedoms. They do not take risks alone as each has a family and friends they long to return to at the end of each tour of duty.
So today...and every day... thank a first responder or military person. Thank someone for putting their life on the line to keep you and your family safe...because yesterday Chicago lost one of its Finest and Bravest and a family lost a loved one.
We will never forget.....
www.cpdmemorial.org
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
I am what I am
Slow-but-sure has always worked for me, in running and in most other arenas. I wouldn't mind being a Carl Lewis or Usain Bolt, but I've found little payoff in attempting to be what I'm not.
Amby Burfoot
Being what you are. Feeling comfortable in your own skin. This is something it took me years to understand and I am still not totally there yet.
After a wonderful long, hot and hilly 9 miler with my cousin (who is MUCH younger and faster than me) I began to think about what it is to be. Just be. She is so confident...getting ready to spend a year in Thailand traveling and teaching. Leaving her comfort zone and experiencing life. Taking a leap of faith.
So...now....at 44 I have begun to realize who I am...I am slow...but I am sure that there is great payoff in being just who and what I am...just being me.
Amby Burfoot
Being what you are. Feeling comfortable in your own skin. This is something it took me years to understand and I am still not totally there yet.
After a wonderful long, hot and hilly 9 miler with my cousin (who is MUCH younger and faster than me) I began to think about what it is to be. Just be. She is so confident...getting ready to spend a year in Thailand traveling and teaching. Leaving her comfort zone and experiencing life. Taking a leap of faith.
So...now....at 44 I have begun to realize who I am...I am slow...but I am sure that there is great payoff in being just who and what I am...just being me.
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