It’s Possible

Today, my older sister sent me a text asking when my daughter’s 1st Communion will be. She told me she is considering running a half marathon this year to celebrate being 13 years cancer free (13 for 13), though technically a half marathon is 13.1 miles. But I digress.

I responded with the date and it’s a conflict with one of the May races she is considering. So she said she can do the one on July 7th in Waitsfield, VT. I’m reading her texts and something came over me wondering if maybe I should join her. It is a big deal, as my sister was diagnosed with Choriocarcinoma back in 2005 and has been in remission since 2006. I have certainly not been the most supportive sister (literally and figuratively, thanks to our little sister 😉 ), but maybe I can be more supportive now.

Today is still Ash Wednesday and I spent a good amount of the day thinking about what I can do for the next 40 days to get ready for Easter. Around the time I began contemplating the idea of running, my sister asked me if I wanted to join her. I told her I will gently consider it. The $80 registration fee is good for the next 50 days according to her text, and upon seeing the 50, I immediately considered the 40 days of Lent. Really, about 46 with Sundays. So my decision will need to be made about 4 days after Easter.

I Googled half marathon training and surprisingly, we are both within the possibility to do this and actually complete a half marathon on July 7th. I haven’t run since last August (I think) and I’m fairly out of shape, but it’s possible.

I reached out to a friend who runs and may hook up with their group this weekend. Tomorrow is hill day, at 5:30am. Sounds brutal. She will be volunteering for the Boston Marathon in April, she’s a rockstar and an inspiration!

I didn’t make it for ashes, but contrary to popular belief, Ash Wednesday is not a Holy Day of obligation so I get a pass. I did find out about a local parish with a great open door policy today which I thought was awesome. Doors open all day for ashes, confessions, 3 Masses and conversation.

40 days. Let’s do this.