Race in review...

Last Sunday I participated in the AHA heart mini.  I ran the 1/2 marathon, the first time they've offered this length of an event.  Usually the events are 5k, 10k, or 15k.  I have to admit that this course was very challenging.  So many hills!!!  At one point I think I could have walked up a hill more quickly than I was running.  After combating the hills of Cincinnati we headed across the bridge to newport, KY  to run a few miles then head back across another bridge to downtown before we finished.  (The bridges added more hill work.)

If the hills weren't enough a challenge we also had a bit of rain.  About an hour before the event was scheduled to start I arrived downtown and then rain started.  Luckily, I had an emergency poncho with me in my handy dandy duffle bag.  After about mile 1-2 the rained died down and it was just cloudy and cool the rest of the race.  After the race the rain started again.  It was a perfect window of dryness.  I'm so glad I finished before it started coming down again.

Overall, it was a great race.  Even with all the hills I set a new PR of 2:01:36.  Totally surprised myself!  I think the extra strength training is paying off!!! I think I'm in a good place for training for my next marathon....the disney world marathon Jan. 2012!

The last month or so in review...

It's been a bit over a month since I've posted to the blog.  Since then ALOT has happened.  Needless to say it's been a crazy month full of presentations, wedding planning, and festivities.  Here are some the highlights:

• Valentine's day...Jonah and I had brunch at Nada in downtown Cincy and attended the Cincinnati Ballet's A midsummer night's dream!  It's was fantastic.  
• Committee meeting with the advisory committee of professors  to give an update on my research and progress.  I received some great constructive comments and confirmation that I'm on track for my Ph.D.  
• Helped with Saturday science, a day where middle school kids learn about development and have a lab day.  
• Bridal shower hosted by my amazing friends Lauren and Morgan.  Lots of delicious food, visiting with family and friends, and fun gifts. 
• Registered for the Disney World Marathon (Jan. 8, 2012).  Hooray for a disney adventure.  
• Nearly done with all the wedding details.  I just have a few reception things to assemble and print in the coming weeks.  

The image for the post is of a centerpiece made with a ball jar, an inspiration image for our centerpieces of our wedding.  (We met at Ball State :))  This weekend will be full of wedding preparation and a fun half-marathon benefiting American Heart Association!