Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Who am I?

Sometimes I really wonder who I am or who am I supposed to be... I've spent 20+ years being a wife and a mother, but I think in that process the real me got lost or forgotten and whenever she tries to come out something happens to try and push her back in. Don't get me wrong I love my family, but I often feel overwhelmed and taken advantage of. Every time I think life is going my way the other shoe falls and again there goes my happy go lucky lifestyle. Those who know me know I really try to stay upbeat and keep my personal life out of everything I do, but what do you do when that just becomes to much to bear. I'm sure that many out there feel exactly like I do, but I'm sure they also feel as alone as I do at this very moment. Thankfully I had some very awesome online and in real life friends tonight that talked me down off the ledge I had put myself on, and I know that God put them there when I needed them. So tonight, this post is for all that are feeling like I did. Know that you are not alone, I'm here for you!!!

Tuesday, April 10, 2018

Amazing Race for Charity 2018 Recap


One race that I try to do every year, and have succeeded so far is the Amazing Race for Charity. It's a local race put on by a very dedicated group of volunteers to benefit some of our local area charities and schools. It ranges from about 5 - 6 miles within the city of Eustis and encompasses around 20 really fun challenges. The challenge levels are achievable by any fitness or skill level and there is no time limit on the race so it can be walked or ran. It is always one of the most well organized events I have ever run. This year proved no different. It you don't believe me check out the other testimonials on their page.
Race Map
Starting Line

 

This year's race distance totaled approximately 7.5 miles with about a mile of it on a school bus ride. There were 21 challenges that included brain, fitness and sport skills, but some were just for fun. I honestly couldn't tell you which was my favorite or which challenge I liked the least, they were all great. Every year they just keep on getting better.










Station 1



This wasn't my best run because I wasn't feeling that great having battled an ear infection all week, but I still had a ton of fun. The past four years I have run this race with a friend, but this year I was lucky enough to run it with my youngest son. He didn't break a sweat running at my pace, LOL. During the 21 challenges we were able to get some photos, either taken by friends or by the race crew.  The great thing about these race photos is that they are free. After the race, you are emailed a link to all the photos and you can download as many as you'd like. Check out all the pictures that were taken that day. 

Prom Challenge

During the challenge at the fire department, one of us had to get wet while the other one performed math balancing our check book. Luckily, I was the one doing the math because that water was freezing!!! 




















This was the last challenge where we had to carry a ball around cones and across a beam together without using our hands. Definitely have to work together during this race :) 












Finish Line









And of course the end of the race lived up to all the other challenges, spraying us with foam as we crossed. 
Finish Line

Finish Line
This year, along with the awesome shirt and amazing time, the great organizers made a pretty cool finisher's medal. It's probably one of the most unique medals I have ever received at a race. 


I really recommend that my local running and non-running friends consider doing this event next year. I promise you won't be disappointed and if you register before April 30th you can get in for a really discounted rate.