Looking Back and Finding Inspiration
A day off. Just what I needed after my hard hill workout and l8 mile long run. It was a great day to relax with my son who had a day off from school and to recharge my batteries. I decided to make use of the time by cleaning my office. I am in the middle of a bunch of projects and have some more coming up this week, so I thought I would take advantage of some time to clear not only my head, but some photo cards, and reorganize some things around my desk.
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| Snoopy from Darcy |
I think that all of us hold on to things that give us good memories, put smiles on our faces and give us strength. There are three things in my office that standout and that I draw from everyday. The first is a ceramic Snoopy statue. This statue was given to my by my dear friend Darcy. Darcy and I went to high school together, played sports together, hung out and got in trouble together. She was the greatest friend anyone could have. In high school even our boyfriends were good friends and we would spend almost every weekend hanging out together. There was rarely a moment when we would be apart. Growing up in Chicago, we hung out at North Ave. Beach, cruised the downtown area by "Mothers", pegged for a 6 pack and even pool hopped at the Park District Pool. Yeah, those were the days. I would say that it was all carefree except for the fact that in high school, Darcy was diagnosed with cancer. She braved many battles, but none as hard as this. She went into remission for some time, but her cancer returned and at the tender age of 33 she was called home. I never knew anyone who touched so many people in such a short time. She was an amazing friend, athlete, and the type of person that could make anything fun. I remember how we use to listen to Bruce Springsteen records over and over in her room until we had all the songs memorized. We would drive around for hours in her convertible talking about everything and enjoying the time that we had. She was one of the highlights at my wedding, came and visited my daughter Shannon when she was born and would write and send me the best letters. I kept all of her letters and cards in a box. After she passed away, I was glad to know that I still had her inspiring words to keep me company. I miss her everyday and often tell my kids about the good times that her and I had together. She was the best kind of friend you could ever have growing up. I hope that I was as good to her as she was to me. Her birthday is March 23 and she would have been 49 years old. Miss you every day my friend. I carry your spirit with me always. Love you. - Banashly
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| Book of Inspirational Thoughts |
The second thing I draw strength and wisdom from is my Inspirational Thoughts For Every Day book. It is a collection of Bible verses and prayers for each day of the year. I have read, and reread this book many times. When things get tough, it is the first place that I turn to for strength. Often one passage from the book provides an opening to some great areas in the Bible where I can continue to pray. I take that book with me when I travel and find it is very comforting to have His word with me. I have had it and read it for so many years, you would think that I would have it all memorized by now, but each time I read it, I find a new message of strength. I wouldn't go anywhere without it. Seeing it on my desk everyday is a great reminder to be thankful for all that I have and all that I have been given. I am truly blessed.
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| Book- "Deep Freeze Marathon" |
The third thing in my office that inspires me is a book that was put together by a friend of mine, Jen Falduto. Jen and I were part of a group of 16 individuals from our town that participated in a run called the "Deep Freeze". Organized by our good friend, Margi Johnson (accomplished runner, triathlete and mom of 6), the idea behind the race was to work together and train some moms from the community for their first half-marathon. The half marathon was designed around the streets of Elmhurst and the money raised was going to a charity. In this group of 16 runners, there were only 6 of us that had ever run that far before. This was uncharted waters for the other 10, plus they we were going to run it in the middle of January. One of the coldest times of the year. Wearing the warmest clothes they could find and by gathering inspiration from everyone in the group and advice from experienced runners, these ladies stepped up to the plate and made it happen. Jen was clever enough to capture the moments on film and put together a book that is full of memories from our special day. As with any training program, it is always a journey and sometimes you can forget just how far you have come to accomplish something. Here is how far this group came...
2009 Deep Free --Facts To Remember
Today you're an 13.1 miles
Since November 1st you have run 223.1 miles
The temperature when you began running in November was 50 degrees.
The temperature when you crossed the finish line was 15 degrees.
You have spent over 12 hours talking about running.
You have spent 37 hours actually running.
And now you have spent countless hours just thinking about running.
What you have lost in sleep
You have gained in strength.
Your spouse is proud of you.
And your kids will always remember your example.
Today you have reached your goal
Here are the names of the friends who took each step with you:
Val, Lara, Carol, Kim, Tracey, Deb, Jannell, Patti, Mary Beth, Mary Ann, Dina, John, Gail, Kate, Jen and Margi
BECAUSE IT'S NEVER TOO COLD TO RUN
Being a part of the Deep Freeze is something that I will never forget and I carry the strength and friendship of these runners with me at every workout and every race. To this day, they are awesome friends, and they will always have a special place in my heart.
It is comforting to work in an area where I am surrounded by things that make me strong. I can gaze across my wall and see photos that I have taken of some amazing things. I can at look photos that have appeared on magazine covers and smile but nothing gives me as much strength as being able to relive special times in my life that have shaped who I am today and to pray for many more wonderful times to come.
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