naibrittany

Hello, I think running a marathon is a great goal. I began my running journey Dec 2012, with a group called Black Girls Run, and have been hooked since, I just ran my first half marathon May 5, 2013 and felt so accomplished. Initially, my goal was to simply run a 5k and I am a proud 1/2 marathon runner, I ran 13.1 miles in 2:35 hours. So yes you can do it!!! I was banded Oct. 2010, weighed in at 250ish and as of today, I weigh 140. Also, between that time, I had a baby Oct. 8, 2011;)

Have you heard of Black Girls Run, they have changed my life by making running fun.. I enjoy hitting the pavement and running races with these ladies:)

From www.mamalaughlin.com
I am a Runner
There was a time when I doubted even calling myself a runner.
Sure, I ran, but I was doing it for weight loss purposes, so I didn't feel like I was a TRUE runner.
I felt like a poser.
I thought I'd just lose the weight and then be able to stow my Brooks and never run again.
How wrong I was.
Because I found a passion for something I was never even looking for.
It took me until after my first half marathon to really consider that title legit.
Today, I am a runner.
I am a runner because I run.
Because when I'd rather sit on the couch, I lace up and head out.
Because at 4pm every day my legs are bouncing up and down, itching for the pavement.
Because one day I decided I wanted to run, having never ran before.
So I committed. And I ran. And when I first started I could barely run for a whole minute without stopping.
But I kept on. Day after day I laced up and headed out.
And with each new mile I ran I felt empowered and a sense of pride I'd never felt before.
And now I can run for close to 3 hours without stopping.
I am a runner.
Because it's hard.
Because I love knowing there are only a select few people that can do what we do.
Because I've got the tan lines to prove it.
Because the rhythmic sound of my feet on the pavement is far better than any amount of therapy.
Because I can clear my head when pounding it out.
Because when sweat is dripping off my forehead and into my eyes, I am proud.
I am a runner.
Because I've worked my way up.
Because it's made my ass jiggle less and my legs stronger.
Because I cried the first time I ran 10 miles without stopping. Uncontrollable tears poured down my face and my entire body was covered in goosebumps thinking about what I'd just done.
How I was amazed at what my body was capable of. How I was thankful to be able to do things I never imagined I could.
I am a runner.
Because I'm not a mom, or a maid, or a chauffeur, or a cook, or a wife when I'm out there- I'm a runner.
Because when some people would give up when feeling weak, I keep going.
Because I push through when I want to stop.
Because just thinking of crossing the finish line of another race gives me chills.
Because if it weren't for running, I'd be lost.
Because I'm not the skinniest or the fastest, but I damn sure try my hardest.
Because I dread the actual RUN... until I get out there.
Because I love a challenge.
I am a runner.
Because when I cross off my weekly runs in red marker I feel like a rockstar.
Because running gear makes me happy.
Because I think Sports Beans are the best Jelly Beans there are.
Because I get excited about a new pair of Brooks.
Because I don't focus on time or distance, but rather just FINISHING.
Because I search for Runner's High.
Because I've had to work my butt off to do so.
Because through running I've inspired people to want to better themselves.
To know it's possible to push your body to extremes you never imagined.
Because through running I found myself again.
If you run, you are a runner.
No matter what distance. Or for how long, or how often.
It doesn't matter if you're the fastest or the slowest. The skinniest or the fattest.
If you run, you are a runner.
Don't let anyone tell you different.
Today, I am a runner.
Because I run.