My Cycling FAIL: Falling, F-bombs, & Finding Balance

I started going to cycle classes at the Y a few years ago. I even have the fancy cycling shoes that clip into the pedals. This, of course, makes me a cycling expert. Sadly, my expertise ends at the part where you clip in and ride an actual road bike in the actual world. You

Throwback Thursday: Here’s to You. Yes, You.

If you’ve been following me on Instagram, you know I’m training to run the Boston Marathon in April. (!!!!!!!!!) Most days I’m super pumped about it, but today’s tempo run kicked my @$$. It was a physical strain, yes — but more than that, today was a mental battle. About halfway through, the negative thoughts drummed

Guest Post: Embracing The Race

I’d like to introduce you to Lisa Preuett. When I met her a couple of years ago at a writer’s conference, we discovered we had running in common as well as writing! She had a devotional in the works at the time, and the early drafts she shared totally resonated with my runner’s heart. If you know

Throwback Thursday: Who needs a laugh?

You guys. I’m running the Charlotte Half Marathon this Saturday, and all I can really say is that I’ve actually been training, so THANK HEAVENS this won’t be a repeat of THAT ONE YEAR. Do you remember? No? Oh good, this will be fun. Happy Throwback Thursday, friends. I present to you: my dumbest race ever. Originally published on

43 Songs: The Ultimate Running Playlist

While visiting my parents in Indiana, I thought I’d be able to keep up my training for an upcoming half marathon (I’m planning to NOT repeat this total FAIL). But, I’m currently stuck inside, watching the freezing rain outside, and am just not hard core enough today to get out there and run in that mess. Meanwhile, why

Force Quit: an invitation

In three days, I’ll run a marathon. I have poured hours and miles of hard work into preparing. But just weeks ago, I thought my efforts were all in vain. It was August. School had started for BOTH of my children, and for the first time since I could remember, how I spent my day was in MY CONTROL. The

Throwback Thursday: A simple plan for your worst! race! ever! (I do dumb things.)

I recently began training for my second marathon, and I’m pretty pumped about it. While there’s much to do in preparation, I can largely capture what NOT to do in this little post from last year. Happy Throwback Thursday, people. Enjoy the laughs. Originally published on March 10, 2014. I did something really stupid. I ran a half marathon. For

Starbucks Confessional (I am a freaking hot mess. Now, what?)

I’m doing something that makes me nervous. I was feeling pretty raw and low last week and it spilled onto the pages of my journal. I’m nervous because I know I’m supposed to share it. I wanted to edit it first – but not in the way I usually edit my writing. I could tell I wanted

Throwback Thursday: Refuel (because I’m running out of gas in more ways than one) (You, too?)

Originally published March 3, 2014. I hate stopping for gas. I will drive as far as possible on “E” before stopping at a gas station. (Sorry, Mom & Dad – I know, you taught me better.) I hate the anxiety of wondering if I’ll make it to my destination before I run out – but

Food, Faith, Fitness… and a FREE BOOK!

‘Tis the season for starting fresh! I will eat better! Exercise more! Read my Bible EVERY! DAY! (Who’s with me!?) Aaaaaand, true confession: ‘Tis ALSO the season for a roller coaster ride of preoccupation with body image, crazy diets, and perfectionism. (Sigh.) Well, friends, if you’re riding the same coaster as me, I have a