If you read my post about my experience running a 10k for the first time, you would know that I just started "running" this year back in April in preparation for the 10k race in June. The rush of that event sparked a love for running in races, prompting me to sign up for a 5k (3.1 miles), one month after. So, the question still stands, I think, what led me to believe I could handle 13.1 miles, and why did I choose to take on the challenge? I mean, I do have a knack for being deululu. Yes, that's a word. 

Firstly, let me do a quick shoutout to one of my very good friends, Faith, for introducing me to Nike Run Club app. That app helped me keep track and truly feel prepared for the race. And, yes, Faith is the same friend who encouraged me to take on the 10k back in June. It's true what they say about choosing your friends wisely— it's crucial. Well, since we're discussing friendships, I sadly experienced the loss of a cherished and deeply cared-for friendship back in July of this year. It's evident - it still stings due to the way it ended. Yet, it has once again imparted a profound lesson: everyone we meet has a shelf life, and for some, that expiration arrives when you least expected it. Wait, how did we stray onto this topic? Let's refocus here! Before we shift gears, one additional point: a significant lesson I grasped from that experience is that occasionally, staying silent and acknowledging the conclusion of a relationship suffices. 

Alright, let's talk about training. This time round was way simpler compared to preparing for the 10k. The Nike Run Club app offers ready-made training plans for various distances like 5k, half marathon, full marathon, and more. All you have to do is input your race date, and bam! It sets up the training schedule for you. What truly captivated me about this app were the guided runs delivering Coach Bennett's advice directly into my ears. Those sessions were absolutely gems on race day. Naturally, I made sure to eat well, stay hydrated, stretch before and after each run, and prioritize plenty of rest. There was a week I skipped entirely because my body felt worn out, and you know what? It felt fantastic to listen to what my body needed. 

Brr, it was so cold! I knew it would be, but honestly, I can't help but complain about it. Lucky for me, I brought sweatpants and decided to keep wearing them during the race because of how chilly it was.

I was fortunate to have two amazing friends with me bright and early at 6 am on that Sunday, October 15. They supported me from the beginning of the race until the end, and a few more friends joined later. I couldn't have asked for better company. I was particularly grateful that day because the Columbus weather held up and didn't rain. You never know what to expect with Columbus weather, believe me! 

The first 10k or 6.2 miles were a piece of cake, probably because I'd tackled it before, you know? But goodness, the remaining miles back to the finish line stirred up a whirlwind of emotions. What really fueled me were the kids I was running for—their faces filled with excitement—and the ingenious and funny signs people held up along the way, plus their cheers. It hit me hard; I'll admit, I shed a few tears. Not because my face was numb from the cold, but because the emotions slowly sank in—I was running for something meaningful, something beyond myself.

As I hit that last mile, I don't know where this sudden surge of energy came from. I wish it had kicked in about 5 miles earlier, but hey, I used every ounce of it to finish that last mile. Spotting my friends on the sidelines, cheering me on, was an incredible boost. Crossing the finish line was empowering, especially knowing I'd surpassed my initial goal of finishing under 3 hours and 30 minutes. My final time? 3:04:20. A girl who picked up running races just five months ago finished a half marathon without a single tear or faint. Yeah, that happened!

I hope this read nudged you in some way, whether it sparks an interest in running or not. Frankly, it doesn't matter to me since I have no real attachment to it. Though, I'm planning to tackle a full marathon next year—again, zero relationship. Moving on, I genuinely hope this serves as a gentle push for you to tackle whatever it is you've been postponing or finding excuses to avoid. It might not necessarily be running; it could be taking that solo trip, relocating to a new state, or making a career change. No matter what it is, being in a state of delulu is the ultimate solulu.

The quote: "Don't make excuses and never give up. Believe it's possible, find a way and make it happen. You'll never know if you stop now." ~ Unknown