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I realized after my first half, that running is a great stress reliever! It also taught me a lot about my willpower. Somehow, even on rainy days I made it a point to get the runs done. Even after networking events and dinners with friends, I made it a priority to get the training runs done. Since then, I’ve completed my second half marathon, the ING Miami half. I’ve also done some 5ks like the Susan G. Komen in Atlanta and the 420 Festival. I have to confess, I did NOT train long enough for this race. I started about a month out. Right after a very “relaxed” Christmas. I didn’t run much over the holidays which was a huge mistake. The Miami course was almost entirely flat too. Which was new for me since I trained on trails full of hills. I learned my lesson from doing that and I vow to never run a race without 2 months or more of preparation and training.

The next two races I’m signed up for are: The Color Run and 420 Fest 5k. The Color Run, is one for fun. Of course, I don’t plan on getting a great time. I want to have fun with my group and friends who will be there. I wanted to do the Zooma Atlanta half marathon, but because of the outrageous pollen counts and my allergies, it’s not a good fit. I have a history with terrible nose bleeds, insomnia and migraines as a side affect from training in the spring allergy season. Georgia has had record pollen counts lately which sucks for even going out to the mailbox. I also want to sign up for the Dirty Girl Atlanta obstacle course too. So it looks like my next  half marathon will have to be in the fall. So, I’m using the Peachtree training to help me get there.

Are you doing any of these races? Let me know! Do you have any tips for me?