Marathon training is going...

Well, I plan to be in here weekly at a minimum to discuss how marathon training is going and how God is working.  I haven't done so to this point.  So...to catch up...

I am in week three of my training.  So far, I have managed all my miles except for my recovery runs on Sundays.  I have that as a fifth run of the week and one that I consider optional.  So, I am happy with my accomplishments so far.

I think often about sweet Sophia and how strong she is.  How strong her mother is.  I have much respect for them both and am blessed to have them in my life.  I am so thankful to have Sophia to run for.  In a way I feel like this is a way that I am also drawing closer to my grandmother that has passed.  I have missed her so much and am honored to get to run this first 26.2 race on what would be her 90th birthday.  Honored.

In that, I am reminded how precious time is.  How precious our loved ones are.  How much we take for granted.  I have had many people enter in my life in the last three weeks.  For one, school has started back and so I have a whole new round of students.  I feel like so far this is my greatest group.  I have been teaching for six years and really can't think of a semester that I enjoyed all my classes so much.  The students are respectful (so far) and helpful.  One of my physical education classes I have 13 students who encourage each other the entire workout.  They aren't trying to "beat" each other, just to do their best.  I am so proud of this group already and we are only on week two.  I also have students that I know have been brought into my life for a reason.  Some that I feel I will get to be used to help them, and some that I believe are there to help me.  I love learning from others.  I have a student who is only a couple of years into his walk with the Lord and he is already so knowledgeable and shines God's light so bright.  He got to get baptized in the Jordan and walk where Christ walked.  How cool is that?!?!

I also know of many that have lost friends and loved ones in the past three weeks.  My heart breaks for each of them. Spend time with those you love.  Live life, don't just let life happen to you.