Mind OVER Matter.

Well.. Today was the end of week 4 training for the half-marathon! We had to run 8 miles. I did pretty good. I only stopped twice to walk and not for very long (probably a total of 2 minutes). I finished in an hour and half- which probably isn't good for most people but for me its amazing! I was pretty proud of myself. My legs were very stiff at the beginning so I started off slow and by the time they warmed up I was stinking tired so I didn't go as fast as I wanted but for never running that far before I think its good :) I am not much for running, although I love the way I feel after I run- I feel healthy, productive, and accomplished. I have never been huge into running races or trying to improve my speed so its all pretty new to me. For me, the biggest struggle is internally. I am constantly fighting with my mind. I don't get winded very easy and my legs aren't a huge problem most of the time BUT my mind is a constant struggle. I always run with music and try and not focus on the time or how far I have gone but for some reason my mind goes back to every second I am running. My mind is always saying, "you can't go any further" or "its too far- you will never make it without stopping." Most of the time I can fight the thoughts but it makes running so much less enjoyable and a lot harder. And when its over I think to myself- why did I struggle so much making it to the end? Last week, I started to set my ipod to worship music and constantly be in prayer and communication with the Lord while I run. I mainly pray for strength and endurance. I pray that the temptations of my thoughts will not overtake me! It has been good- I can definitely see improvements- still have work to go though! Sometimes, my mind is so strong I drift away from prayer but I am working on it. Only 6 weeks or 42 days until the big day!!!! I am getting nervous but I know it will be fun and very rewarding!

Also, we have decided to sponsor one of Maddies kids who she ministered to in Africa. We are very excited about it! I am very proud of her for giving up two weeks of her summer to minister to the kids in need over in Zambia. Brings so much joy in my heart! She is going again- summer 2010! If you would like to sponsor one of her kids or give to her trip you can do so at https://fathersheart.legacymissions.org/sponsorship.php or you can send her money through the mail! God is doing great things in her heart and through her- so proud!!

"I will not leave you as orphans, I will come to you." John 14:8


Well thats all thats on my mind right now... Peace out!!!