So, if you stop by my blog on a regular basis, you've read where I ran a few half marathons this year. At the beginning of this year, after I knew I would be running 3 half marathons, I got this idea that maybe this would be a good year to try and run a full marathon. And if you're going to run a full blown 26.2 mile marathon, why not pick a good one, so in February I signed up for the Chicago Marathon, and didn't tell a soul. Because really, signing up doesn't mean you have to run it, especially if no one knows you signed up. Well after two successful half marathons I decided to go ahead and commit to the training and go for the full blown marathon.
My official marathon training started in June, and for the last 4 months I've been running in the country, watching the corn grow, dry, and be harvested. I started my training with empty cornfields and ended with empty cornfields, and look what it got me.
Ta Da!
I actually did it. Sunday, 10/9/11, I ran the Chicago Marathon. It was harder than I expected, definitely a once in a lifetime experience for me. And what an adjustment, going from running solo down country roads to running with 45,000 folks from every state in the nation and 103 different countries, surrounded by skyscrapers not corn.
Training for a marathon is sometimes a selfish thing, you have to put yourself and your training first, which, as a woman, wife, and mother isn't an easy thing. But I'm glad I did it, I was worth it, and so was running the race.
I think this calls for a celebration!
This is big Picnic from Carrie Nelson's latest book, "another BiTE OF SCHNiBBLES"
I think it may be my favorite pattern in the book, but as you know, I'm going through a bit of a basket phase.
There are a wonderful variety of 24 quilts, one to please you I'm sure.
And if none of the patterns appeal, reading the pattern book will, it's a fun read with amazing pictures. Those quilts in the book got to spend an amazing vacation at the beach.
When I pre-ordered my book I ordered two, one for me and one for you! ( plus that qualified me for free shipping!)
So to celebrate the fact that I was able to not only finish my first and last marathon, but to live to tell about it, I'm giving away one of these books.
To qualify just leave a comment about a goal you set for yourself and achieved or hope to achieve. I can hardly wait to read all about it.
You have until the end of day Saturday, October 15th, I'll announce the winner on Sunday!
CnD disclaimer - Carrie Nelson did not pay for this book or pay me to giveaway or promote this book. I'm doing it just because I like the book and thought you would too!!
