See you at the Finish Line Chicago!

The only movie that influenced my life is called Spirit of the Marathon. I remember folding baby clothes in 2010 and thinking, "I can do that!" Something about that joy and  triumph at the finish line of a marathon connected with great possibilities inside of me. Once our family moved to Texas I almost gave up on competing. It seems like the doors to running 5Ks were closed shut but God opened doors to other possibilities. Through several wonderful people, God led me to my running group which helped me run my first marathon in January. As I crossed that finish line, I was reminded that all things are possible through Christ who can do exceedingly abundantly above all that I could ask or imagine. 

A few months later I entered the Chicago Marathon Lottery and here is a photo of my cheerleaders:

I love these amazing kids!

These past 14 weeks have taught me me a lot about believing God for that which seems impossible. Being accepted to the Chicago Marathon was just the beginning of a journey towards all that God had stored for me.

The past 14 weeks have been filled with challenges that led me to a greater awareness of who my Father in Heaven is for me. My knowledge of God has increased and I am in awe of what I have experienced. You see, running is not just about running for me. I see God's hand in this process and His intervention in my every day life.

As I get in the Chicago Marathon start line this Sunday, I am aware that:
• my sufficiency is from God (2 Corinthians 3:5).
• it took me 5 years to get to Chicago. I watched the movie and caught the dream as a seed. I listened to Marathon Training Academy and got some solid advice such as "build your running base." I had our sweet younger daughter which meant I started running from zero again. I ran the Houston Marathon and now we're on our way to Chicago. The idea here is not to give up on a dream.
• I share my medal with my husband and children. Running is a family hobby and it needs to benefit everyone. I am not in this alone and my dear family made this possible and for that I am thankful.
• I am thankful for all the encouragement I received from my friends. I appreciate the wisdom, the runs, the funny stories and I appreciate them for pushing me when I wanted to give up. Friends make the fabric of life richer, they also make dreams seem achievable.
• Jesus goes with me everywhere I go. Yes, Jesus runs with me and we have quite the interesting time. I pray a lot of the time. When I zone out, I'm known to say 'sorry about that Jesus, what was I telling you again?"

We're all running a marathon in life. Getting high education degrees, having children or any other accomplishment feels like a marathon. It takes small steps but they all add up.
I'm not sure what your dream is but I can tell you that your steps will lead you to your finish line.

My father is my primary teacher when it comes to dreams and visions. The greatest lesson I've learned from him is not to stop dreaming. Chicago is one of many dreams I have. Yes, it's a big deal but God has so much more prepared for those who love Him. Never stop dreaming my friend. See you at the finish line!

I'm counting on your prayers from your warm beds Sunday!