Guest Post: Cousin Mandy!

I have one more guest post for you before I get back to actually writing this blog myself.

My cousin Amanda (who I call Mandy), has written a great post for you all!  She regularly writes a blog over at RisetoRun.com - go and check it out!  She started that blog to document her training for the Boston Marathon (which she ran in April!), but will now keep you updated on her new life in San Francisco.  She just moved at the beginning of the month and is happy to text me every time she has an Alaskan beer (they sell it in California, but not in Florida).  I am super jealous.  California really does have it all :)  Enjoy her post!

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How long have you been running?

I have been running on and off for about 7 years now.  I started running in college to get back and shape and lose some weight.  I had some periods where I didn’t run but I have been running very consistently since October 2007.

What do you like about it?

I love running for many different reasons.  It really depends on the day.   I love starting my day off with a run.  It gives me a chance to reflect on the day ahead, what I want and need to accomplish. I try not to focus on work when running because it’s “my time” but sometimes I can’t help it.   Often my most creative work ideas or solutions  are an outcome of my runs. 

Running has always been my go to when I’m stressed out or upset.  It clears my head and the runners high at the end always makes me feel better.  When the going gets tough you can guarenttee I’ll be putting in extra miles.

Finally, I love how I feel physically after a run.  My muscles are fatigued and sometimes sore.  It’s a reminder that I’m taking care of myself physically.  You only have one body so it’s important to treat it well so you can live a long and plentiful life.  I want to be running or at least exercising well into my 70’s and 80’s.

My niece Lily was so excited to see Mandy running in
the marathon, she jumped right into her arms - so cute!

Have you run a Disney race before?

The Disneyland Half Marathon will be my first race!  I’m very excited to finally participate in a Disney event!

What are you looking forward to?

I’m looking forward to the Disney Medal!  I’ve always admired Heather’s and now I finally get my very own Disney Medal!   I’m also looking forward to running through the parks.  It will be fun to be inside the park before it’s open and it will certainly pass the first few miles quickly! 

I’m also really looking forward to a fun weekend at Disney and celebrating with a day in the park and of course a few beers to rehydrate post-race :)  ***This is Heather - hopefully the beer will be of the Alaskan variety!

Any other running-related stories?

I moved to San Francisco at the beginning of the month and just signed up for the Big Sur Half Marathon in November!  I will keep you up to date on my training and, of course, definitely post a re-cap of the race on my blog www.risetorun.com!

2011 Boston Marathon finisher!

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Thanks Mandy!  Can't wait to hang out with you in your new home state in less than two weeks!