The Little Things
November 8, 2012

Wow- it’s been a crazy last 7 days. Last week I kept going back and forth between being so thankful for running and dealing with the crazy thoughts leading up to my 2nd half marathon. Being injured, I had no idea how the race would go. The race went really wonderfully and this week I’m brimming even more with gratitude toward all that running has given to me in my life.

I’m thankful I completed my 2nd half marathon and set a new PR! The race was really fantastic and I truly loved running it! I was so worried that I wouldn’t even be able to finish the race because of IT band pain, but I not only finished but finished faster than my previous half marathon. You can read all about it here.

I’m thankful that my IT band pain was survivable. Some of my training I couldn’t run through the pain of my IT bands, and would have to walk for many minutes. I’m thankful that with stretching three separate times on the course I was able to get through the pain.

I’m thankful that I only had one really painful day after the race. On Sunday my knees weren’t really bending properly so walking was really awkward and stiff. I’m glad that by Monday I wasn’t in bad pain at all. I’m still a little stiff but it’s been a little better recovery then the first time around. I am still getting calf cramps though…

I’m thankful for delicious recovery food! I’m usually more hungry than normal for a week or so after a race, so I’ve certainly been indulging that a bit this week:) One of my favorite treats? These pumpkin cookies!

I’m thankful for heat. It’s been a little chilly this week, and most days when I get home it’s between 60 and 62 degrees. I’m thankful that I have a space heater and electricity so I can warm up my place (and not have to turn on my heat yet…). This is so easy to take for granted, but especially with all that’s happened in NY and NJ with Sandy, I’m very aware that this is something that shouldn’t be taken for granted.

I’m thankful for all my friends and family who cheered me on through training and running this race. That’s why I dedicated those final miles to my family members. I talk about running a lot and they are so good about listening and giving great advice. I really do appreciate it!

Now it’s your turn! What are you thankful for today? 

4 responses to “Thankful Thursday”

  1. Andrea says:

    Great list! I’m always thankful for heat too! Congratulations on your successful race and I hope your IT band feels okay! Have a wonderful thankful thursday Caroline!!

  2. Lots of great things to be thankful for, thanks for sharing!

  3. Awesome list of things to be thankful for! Today I am thankful that it’s Friday!