Tag Archives: boston marathon

June 17, 2013 · 9:09 pm

A marathon of a different type…Taylor Strong!

The Boston Marathon was two months ago today! (I started this on June 15, 2013. Hospital life is much busier than I expected.) Wow, how time flies. As we live life, we have no idea how one event in your life will prepare you for another. How that event will be similar in so many ways to another event you are unaware will happen.

God knew on April 15, 2013 as I ran the Boston Marathon that on June 12, 2013 I would start running a different kind of marathon. He knew my dad would be calling me early in the morning with news that would be life-changing as were the Boston bombings. God knew I would need endurance of a different kind to deal with this marathon. He knew I would draw on my marathon training to sustain while on this new journey.

During that phone call, Dad told me mom had either had a stroke or a brain aneurysm. She awakened at 2:00 am with a headache and throwing up. She tried to go into the living room to rest so she wouldn’t bother daddy. She stumbled and dad heard her. He rushed to her and noticed how unsteady she was and tried to help her. She continued to be unsteady and daddy realized he needed help. He called 911. The EMTs were there quickly and rushed her to Mercy Hospital in Rogers, Arkansas. Upon her arrival they knew she needed specialized help. She was airlifted to Mercy St. John’s Trauma Center in Springfield, Missouri and had aggressive brain surgery. It turns out she had a subdural hematoma, which is a collection of blood outside the brain.

Mom had a section of the size of an adult hand cut out of her skull and the bleed was stopped. To ensure the swelling continues to go down, mom will be without this bone flap for a month or so. They will keeping her bone flap in the freezer. The doctor’s physician’s assistant told us it would be in the cafeteria. It was good to have a bit of humor from the docs. Once the healing process is far enough along they will replace the bone flap. Due to the fact mom will have a part of her head missing, she has to wear a beautiful blue helmet. :) She is thrilled! We will add bling to it soon. She has decided she wants Danica Patrick’s race number because she has become so speedy. This helmet will keep her safe.

This blog was started on a day mom was moving slowly and unbalanced. A day she was mumbling and confused. A day we were unsure how quickly her recovery would go. I can JOYFULLY say that on this day as I write…She is walking with assistance but without a walker. She is mentally SHARP. She is speeding along in her recovery. The occupational therapist and physical therapist that worked with her this weekend were both SHOCKED by the gains she made in 12 hours. She was a different person Day #2.

We were told mom would probably be ready for in-patient rehabilitation by Wednesday. Well, our over-achieving mom is ready TODAY – Monday. She met with the rehabilitation doctor today and she is ready to go. We are now just waiting on a room to open. Once there she will receive intensive therapy 3 hours a day, 5 days a week. Then HOME! I will be in Missouri until mom is released to go home to Arkansas. Then I will spend my summer in Arkansas with mom and dad. We are so blessed that I have a teaching job and can be here to help! Once again, the Lord’s provision.

We are so VERY, VERY thankful for all the blessings God is giving to us minute by minute!!! God has been so very good. Prayers are going up from Arkansas, Indiana, Tennessee, California, Texas, New York, Florida, Oklahoma, England, France and I am sure many more places I am unaware of. If you read this and you are from a different location, comment below so we know. :)

The Lord allowed us to start seeing blessings from the get-go. He enabled the whole family to gather to support mom. Rob and Lisa were able to come to Missouri as well as Rob’s wife, Mari and their daughter, Aspen. Lisa’s daughter Lane made the trip with her. The other family members were with us in spirit and through prayers. Aspen is four years old and kept us entertained dancing, coloring and singing GOING ON A BEAR HUNT. Aspen and Lane brought a huge smile to mom’s face when she saw her grandchildren. Taylor, Lane’s sister, sent well wishes to mom via video from her new 3 month old baby boy. He made us all smile with his sweet cooing. Blessings of the family we have can not be measured…we have an amazing family!

Mom was surrounded physically with her loving family. But we also know she was surrounded by love through prayers from so many others. We have seen the many prayers answered. Dad has been overwhelmed by the outpouring love from all over. I told him I totally understand because I had that feeling after Boston. It is humbling to be on this side of a near tragedy. Once again I am learning life is so very precious. Life is short. Relationships are KEY!

We have a new mantra – Taylor Strong! Mom is a pillar of strength. She is a very strong woman. She has had so many emails describing her as that and as a fighter!!! She is. She will run the race set before her and she will cross the finish line set before her.

We have experienced many Godincidences during this hospital stay. I will blog about them next…stay tuned!

Praising the Lord and still running blessed even though it is a marathon of a different type for Him – Trish

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April 16, 2013 · 10:00 pm

The day after….

Today is a new day. Today is the day the Lord has made so let’s rejoice. I am trying. I really am. I know our God is in control, I do. But I am struggling right now. I know I am to have faith. It is my job to trust…not understand. I know all that…and it does bring me comfort. BUT, I am struggling.

A roller coaster of emotions have hit me today. The events of yesterday are settling in. As we left our hotel today we were met with armed guards. The street in front of the hotel was blocked. The swat team and numerous police officers were at the hotel across the street. Unsettling is the best word to describe it…eery.

These sights are imprinted in my mind. I know they are nothing compared to the sights others saw yesterday. Many of Team Hoyt’s family members were in the stands across from one of the explosions. One said he has replayed it all in his mind over and over again! I can’t imagine…the replay of smoke in mine is bad enough.

Team Hoyt came out physically okay. Emotionally scarred and changed…forever I am sure. It drew us closer to our families and closer to each other as a Team Hoyt family! We were thankful to share hugs! We were thankful to receive emails from those we were unable to see and touch. Dick and Rick were stopped on the course when they cancelled the race. They made it back to their home without too many delays. Thankfully, they are well! The Lord truly watched over our team and helped us through this horrific day.

God is showing me He is in control. Tragedy causes people to search for reasons why…to search for a sense of hope. We may never know why but God is providing hope. He is in control. Romans 8.28 – For we know that all things work together for the good of those who love the Lord and are called according to his purpose.

A friend sent me a devotion today. It was talking about being thankful in all circumstances. My brother sent me 1 Thessalonians 5.18 – here is 1 Thessalonians 5. 16-18….16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. It is so hard to be thankful for the tragedy that unfolded on Marathon Monday but in the devotion it stated again, we can’t see the big picture. He can.

After reading the different accounts in the newspaper it makes me really, really thankful for our safety and God’s provision. I have said this already but will continue. My heart is broken for the families of those who lost their lives. One was an eight year old boy who had just hugged his dad before he crossed the finish line. He ran back to be with his mom when the bomb exploded. He was killed and his mom and sister were both injured. The father was headed down the corral to get his medal. Relieved to be done I am sure. Thankful to have a Gatorade and a Power Bar to refuel. Then as I did, heard the blast and I am sure turned around to horror. My story had a better ending. His did not!

Sadness and tears consume me as I think about this…I know how panicked I felt trying to find Mike. I know the fear that overtook me. Prayers were being lifted but I was in shock and my instincts of go and find Mike kicked in. This father did the same. I can only wrap prayer around this family. I don’t know their names, but God does. God also has this family and the others in His hand.

We are now in flight on the way home. It still seems surreal. On one of the newscasts being broadcast in the airport a reporter said this is like 911 you will always remember where you were and when you heard. I sat back and thought about this…I was there in person. I saw the smoke. People were killed and injured just 2 blocks away from me. The reality of this has not really hit me yet. I know it will. On this roller coaster I go from reality to really? What a place to be!

The outpouring of love Mike and felt have humbled us beyond belief. Due to the circumstances we were without cell phone services for a while. They were taking precautionary measures just in case cell phones were being used to detonate the bombs. It was a scary time. We wanted to get in touch with our loved ones – friends and family all around the world. Please know that if I could give each of you a huge hug – I would. That is what I needed and wanted….Mike was there for me. { } Consider this your virtual hug!

As we have traveled God is showing His presence. Before we took off in Boston I had to use the restroom. I walked in and a girl was on the phone crying. She had her Boston Marathon shirt on so I knew she had run the race. When she was finished I said “I know I don’t know you, but can I give you a hug?” We embraced and then she told me her story. She was right there when it happened. She was thanking the Lord for her safety. We stood and talked for a while and I made a new friend. Liz-I am praying for you! I feel blessed that the Lord allowed our paths to cross. It was a Godincidence like so many other happenings this weekend. She talked about how she felt God was working. How He was drawing us back to our families. We talked about God’s sovereignty. He is in control.

After landing in Charlotte we were walking to connecting gate. A complete stranger reached out and put her hand on Mike’s arm and said, “I am really glad to see you two!” We thanked her as she walked on. Good is out there….everywhere. We need to live more intentional and show others our love and God’s love daily. This is where the hope comes from in these times of tragedy. That is what we are made of!

Does it make us sad? Yes! Do we hurt? Yes! Do we wish we could erase it? Yes! Questions are raised why? Why would a gracious God allow such tragedy?

I know our Lord is good…I know He is sovereign and He is in control. Searching for answers is part of it…as I searched I found this article BIBLE TRUTHS FOR TRAGIC TIMES on www.cbn.com – The Christian Broadcasting Network written by Laura J. Bagby. It was written after Hurricane Katrina. She has conveyed the message so well. She has referenced the word of our Lord and Savior that brings us comfort. READ BELOW:

5 “The waves of death surrounded me; the floods of destruction swept over me. ⁶ The grave[a] wrapped its ropes around me; death itself stared me in the face. ⁷ But in my distress I cried out to the LORD; yes, I called to my God for help. He heard me from his sanctuary; my cry reached his ears (2 Samuel 22:5-7, NLT).The above Scripture passage, a heartfelt cry of King David written thousands of years ago. The Lord God is close to the brokenhearted, to those crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). He is our refuge in times of trouble (Psalm 59:16).

In the meantime, as the rest of us stay glued to the television set, transfixed at the images of horror that have transpired these last couple of days and waiting to hear from loved ones, we must not allow our hearts to faint to the point that we lose hope and begin to question the goodness of God. We can become overwhelmed when we dwell on tragedy, which is exactly why the Bible tells us to set our minds on things above and not on earthly things (Colossians 3:2).When our hearts are troubled, we must seek the Lord. When we give our anxious hearts to God instead of remaining paralyzed by our fearful thoughts, we gain His peace. The Bible tells us plainly in Philippians 4:6-7:Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (NIV).

John 14:27 also notes the exchange of fear for peace. Jesus states:

“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (NKJV).

These are the times to remember just who our God truly is, a God who is there and a God who cares. So let us pause to consider our Great King. Let’s look on heavenly things for a moment to calm our nerves.

Me again: I couldn’t have said it any better. I want to reiterate her words…”Remember who our God truly is, a God who is there and a God who cares. So let us pause to consider our Great King. Let’s look on heavenly things for a moment to calm our nerves.”

I prayed 18 weeks ago, at the beginning of my marathon training, that God’s will be done and He was glorified on race day. Never in a million years did I ever imagine or could I have ever imagined it would or could be happening in this way! God will prevail. We know the ending! Thanking Him for His Hope and love!!!

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April 1, 2013 · 3:06 pm

Cautious Confidence….

Two weeks from today is the big day! Currently it is 2:03pm. At 2:03pm on April 15, I plan to be over Heartbreak Hill and headed down the final stretch to Bolyston Street crossing the 2013 Boston Marathon Finish Line!

As I get closer people want to know how I am feeling. Am I excited? Am I nervous? Yes and YES!

16 weeks ago I started an 18 week training plan called The Hansons Marathon Method.

http://hansonscoachingservices.com/hansons-marathon-method-the-16-miler/

After reading favorable reviews on the method, I thought I would give it a try. There were several attractive components. First, I could order a book and have it in my hands. It would be a manual I could refer to often and as it turns out DAILY! Secondly, this method calls for a 16 mile run and no longer. I love this because it gives me time back. I am not out there running really long on long run days completely exhausted. Thirdly, it emphasizes easy running being EASY and speed being just that – speed and hard. 6 days of running – 2 days hard and 4 easy…I can do that! So my journey on the Hanson Marathon Method began.

How has it gone? The final verdict will be read on April 15 around 2:30pm. We will see if all of my training comes together. This is what my mind has been on the last couple of weeks. This is what crosses my mind when people ask how I am feeling. Will my training come together and will we see the fruit of it? I say YES!

I am better prepared than ever before. I have stayed faithful to the course of training. On days I didn’t want to do it, I did it. On days I couldn’t do it, I did what I could or flipped workouts so I could do it. My times have been spot on and better most days. My easy runs have been easy for the most part…it is hard to pull in the reigns when you are thinking to yourself you should be going faster. I have learned throughout the course of the 16 weeks – easy is good, real good. It makes a difference in your overall state – mental and physical.

Today as I was pondering the next two weeks of preparation – tapering runs, proper nutrition, proper hydration and etc….I decided to pick up my manual and read what the Hanson’s had to say. Here is what I found to help me respond to “How do you feel?” or “Are you ready?”

MENTAL PREPARATION – In my experience, the best way to mentally prepare yourself prior to a marathon is simply to be calm. Getting your heart rate up before you even start running is never a good idea. A good way to find that calm is to approach the race with “cautious confidence.” Step back and spend a moment thinking about your training, reminding yourself that you are fit and ready to race. Training doesn’t lie. Be realistic in pondering the difficulty of the race, but also remind yourself that all your training has prepared you to handle it. In addition, when the going gets tough during the race, you are prepared for it. You knew it wasn’t going to be a cakewalk. By preparing this way, you are able to have positive and motivating thoughts ready and waiting to help you endure.

p. 200 Hansons Marathon Method, written by Luke Humphrey with Keith & Kevin Hanson

Wow!!!! Just what I needed to read! CAUTIOUS CONFIDENCE! I have trained and I have trained well. All of my speed workouts, strength workouts and tempo workouts have been successes. They were all hard and harder in the beginning. But I transitioned from being fearful I couldn’t keep the pace to being confident I could and I would. What a relief!

Now, to finish strong and to finish well.

2 Timothy 4.7

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Hebrews 12.1-2

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, ²looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

My goal marathon day is to run with the Lord’s strength and to finish the race He set before me. My training won’t lie. I am cautiously confident it will ALL come together.

Romans 8.28

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

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December 31, 2012 · 11:33 pm

2012 blessings in photos…

2 Corinthians 3.17-18 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever‑increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

As every year passes I grow more and more aware of God’s plan for me on this earth – to reflect His glory. As I reflect on 2012 I am reminded of the many blessings the Lord has bestowed on me. This blog will be very similar to my Thanksgiving blog, but it will be a 12 month photo journey of 2012. The idea was taken from my niece Lane Lewis who is a VERY talented photographer. You can check her work out here - https://laneybugphotos.wordpress.com. (and thanks to iPhoto…my photos are organized by date…those who know me know that organization is NOT my forte.)

Let the journey of blessings begin…

JANUARY

Boston Entry received!

The road before me in 2012 was the answered prayer of running the Boston Marathon with Team Hoyt. I was living my dream and the Lord was providing the DAY and the way!

Psalm 37.23 If the Lord delights in a man’s way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.

FEBRUARY

Scenic City Half Marathon – My number one fan is always cheering me on NO matter what mess I find myself in. I have been told I don’t sit down for long and I’m ALWAYS into something…no, not me. My blessings continue daily with this God-given man…my husband.

Ezra 10.4 Rise up; this matter is in your hands. We will support you, so take courage and do it.

MARCH

Baby shower for my granddaughter!!!

Run with Trish 5K for Team Hoyt – Huge Success!!

APRIL – Busy Month!!!

My birthday! Yay! 43 and holding…great times!

Job 32.7 - I thought, ‘Age should speak; advanced years should teach wisdom.’

EASTER 2012

Luke 24.2; 6-7…They found the stone rolled away from the tomb… He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ”

Our Easter canoe ride. Fun times!

Highlight – We became grandparents of a beautiful baby girl!!!

Job 21.8 - They see their children established around them, their offspring before their eyes.

BOSTON 2013!!

Hebrews 11.1 1 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.

My mailbox…God showing up in a real BIG way…Boston Marathon 2012!

We became in-laws to our daughter-in-love!

Job 41.7 - They are joined fast to one another; they cling together and cannot be parted.

Nashville Marathon – Encouraging some very special people!!

Proverbs 27.17 – As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.

1 Chronicles 29:13 - Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.

MAY

Mike’s Birthday!!! We pulled off a successful surprise!

2 Corinthians 9:15 - Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

The first addition to our donkey family!

Numbers 22:30 - The donkey said to Balaam, “Am I not your own donkey, which you have always ridden, to this day? Have I been in the habit of doing this to you?” “No,” he said.

Casper – the friendly wonky(sometimes-LOL!)

JUNE

Girl trip to the beach – rest and relaxation needed!

Psalm 23.1-3 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

4th anniversary trip!

1 John 4:19 - We love because he first loved us.

1 Corinthians 16:14 - Do everything in love.

June Races/Runs – Fun time with friends!

Proverbs 17:17 - A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Father’s Day – Exodus 20.12

¹²“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.

My fisherman and encourager…Matthew 4.18-19

¹⁸As Jesus walked alongside the Galilee Sea, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew, throwing fishing nets into the sea, because they were fishermen. ¹⁹“Come, follow me,” he said, “and I’ll show you how to fish for people.”

JULY

Family fun!

Hebrews 2:11
Both the one who makes men holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers.

My brother and his wife new adventure – a food truck.

Sailing with my father-in-law…

Trip to Hot Springs to see some of my dear friends!

Cross made by my dearest and longest friends’ daughter – Emilee. Michelle adopted her this year and expanded her wonderful family. Emilee is quite an artist. We had fun during our visit in July.

THE COLOR RUN…Indianapolis!

Family fun during the Color Run with my sister and two amazing nieces!!

Isaiah 40:31 – But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

1st Nascar Race @ the Indianapolis Speedway

Acts 20:24 …I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me–the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.

AUGUST

Mud Run – Best 5k ever!

Psalm 40.2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.

The beginning of the dream coming to life…Newsom Woodworks!

Jeremiah 29.11 -

¹¹For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

SEPTEMBER

Great fun at work!

Ecclesiastes 3:22
So I saw that there is nothing better for a person than to enjoy their work, because that is their lot. For who can bring them to see what will happen after them?

FCA 5K and Women’s Half Marathon – Nashville, TN

I^2 – Proverbs 27.17 - As iron sharpens iron,
so one friend sharpens another.

More progress on Newsom Woodworks…Proverbs 14:23
All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.

OCTOBER

More running for HIM…

1 Corinthians 9.24 - Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.

Newsom Woodworks continued…

2nd addition to our donkey family…Bella!

Camping Trip – Stone Mountain

Psalm 24.1 – The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it,
the world, and all who live in it;
²for he founded it on the seas
and established it on the waters.

Run for God Bible Study Fall Break Run

NOVEMBER

1 Thessalonians 5.16-18

¹⁶Rejoice always, ¹⁷pray continually, ¹⁸give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Family came for Thanksgiving!

Pacers for the Chickamauga Half Marathon

1 Thessalonians 5.11

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Proverbs 18.24

One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin,
but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Oakridge Secret City Half Marathon Relay

Newsom Woodworks continued…

^DECEMBER

Hebrews 12.1-3 – Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, ²fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Run For God Graduation Run

Boston Training officially started and entry form for 2013 Boston is in the mail!

Hebrews 11.1 For Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see…

1500 miles has never been in my vision…by HIS grace and for His glory!

Newsom Woodworks to be continued….

Family – I am so blessed!

2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

We run into the new year…2013 will be full of blessings from our Lord Jesus Christ.

As I reflect on the blessings of 2012, I am humbled by God’s grace and provision. We are seeing Mike’s God-given dream come to fruition and I have seen my running talent take off once I turned it over to HIM. Our family and friends continue to bless us and complete us. We are so very thankful for everyone in our lives and how each of you have blessed our lives in 2012! We look forward to following the Lord’s lead in 2013!

Running and living BLESSED!!!

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September 2, 2012 · 5:03 pm

The ? of the month…

Luke 1.37

³⁷For nothing is impossible with God.”

Jeremiah 33.3

³‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’

When I got up this morning, it dawned on me that it was one year ago today that I ran my Boston qualifying run in Tupelo, Mississippi. Wow, how time flies! A lot has happened in the last year. Many prayers have been answered while we are waiting on the answer to others. We have gone from being parents to being in-laws and grandparents. I have gone from being a recreational runner to being a Boston Qualifier to being a Boston Marathon finisher. Mike has gone from working for someone to working for himself. We have seen many, many blessings throughout this crazy year. It has been a roller coaster…a fun one for sure.

Now, I am to that time of year where I need to start thinking…do I run Boston again or not? This is the question I am currently bouncing through my head. Many of you have asked me this very question over the past few weeks. Currently, I am in the process of praying for and awaiting the answer. With that being said, God has been speaking and I am trying to listen.

Today our pastor preached a sermon titled: The Mystery of Unanswered Prayers. His points could have been tied to my first Boston journey. They paralleled each other. He showed us this mystery of unanswered prayers with the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth in Luke 1.5-17. How the Lord provided in a way they may not have understood but in a way that brought glory to His name. He discussed how sometimes our prayers are denied or delayed. Boston was denied and delayed in June during my first attempt at qualifying. Why? Because God always answers our prayers in the way that brings Him the greatest glory!

The greatest glory for HIM came from the journey He provided to Boston with my team-Team Hoyt. Then He supplied me with another team of running angels here in TN and around the nation who prayed for me as I fundraised and as I trained. What an incredible experience…which many of you have been a part of or have read about. Now, do I do it again?

Well, yesterday I asked a great friend to pray specifically for me as I try to discern what HIS will is for this situation…not my own. I asked for a very clear open door or closed-door. I need the handwriting on the wall. So, this morning Mike and I walked to the mailbox. We forget to check it occasionally. So, today, on Sunday, we checked it. And what do I find???

The 2012 Boston Marathon Racers’ Record Book

& Boston Finisher’s Certificate

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It was great fun looking through it and reliving the memories. Team Hoyt was highlighted on page 8. What an awesome memory!!! With the book, I also had my Finisher’s Certificate…my official certificate…woo hoo! I am a Boston Marathon Finisher! As I stated at the beginning, God has answered many prayers. Boston was a HUGE one…one I really didn’t realize for a long time.

Now, to 2013…Boston or not? My answer is in His hands. I want to be right smack in the middle of HIS will! I want glory to come to His name. If doing Boston with Team Hoyt again is going to glorify Him and be part of His will, I am totally in! Now to read His word, pray and search for His peace. We are still waiting on news from Team Hoyt as well…that may be the answered door I am waiting on. They were allowed 30 charity spots last year because of it being the 30th running of the marathon for the incredible team. They may not receive as many spots this year. So, will you pray I hear and I know beyond a shadow of doubt whether Boston is His plan or not? Thanks in advance!

Running Blessed…and ready to train if need be!

Trish

Also, I am leading a Run For God Bible study starting September 9. Please pray for all who participate and that God will be present every step of the way.

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April 13, 2012 · 11:21 am

Let this God-given journey continue…

Psalm 27.1

The LORD is my light and my salvation—
whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life—
of whom shall I be afraid?

Our God-given journey continues…We have been blessed to see God’s hand in all things around leading up to this point in time. God blessed us with our amazing granddaughter yesterday morning. She is perfect. Mom, dad and baby are doing awesome. I will carry a picture of her with me as I run as one more example of God’s faithfulness. We are truly blessed.

As we head out to Boston tomorrow many of you have asked how to keep track of us and the incredible weekend. There are several ways…

1st- The Boston prelude…WRCB TV Channel 3 did an awesome job covering the story:

http://www.wrcbtv.com/story/17406969/local-teacher-about-to-see-boston-marathon-dream-come-true

2nd – You can follow TRACKING TRISH at my school websites to see where I am on Monday along the race course as well as viewing a photo journal along the way.

http://www.daytoncity.net/modules/tinycontent/index.php?id=108

3rd – You can receive updates on how well I am doing on race day:

* Text the word RUNNER to 345678 then reply with bib # 24800 for athlete alerts at 10K, 20K, 30K, and 40K
* Start Time: Monday, April 16, 10:40am; Estimated Finish Time: 2:45pm – 3:00pm

4th – During the Boston Marathon you can….SUPPORT YOUR RUNNER – ME! :

Text** a special message on race day to 567890 and support your runner along the course all day long at three big screens – you never know when they will need that extra push! (I will need it! How cool???

5th – Race Day Coverage -

RACE DAY MEDIA COVERAGE

Live local coverage on WBZ-TV, or www.boston.cbslocal.com.
Live national coverage on Universal Sports Television Network
Live online streaming on www.universalsports.com
Live web coverage on www.baa.org

6th – Enjoy the journey with us and have fun watching, praying and praising every step of the way!!!

Isaiah 25.1

LORD, you are my God;
I will exalt you and praise your name,
for in perfect faithfulness
you have done wonderful things,
things planned long ago.

Boston marathon (Photo credit: sean seyeon yun)

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April 8, 2012 · 9:44 pm

Calm before the crazy!

Psalm 46.10

Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

Today was a special day. Today was Easter. Time for us to celebrate our risen LORD! By His grace we were saved through His ultimate sacrifice! We didn’t and don’t deserve His mercy but we received it anyway.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me!!!

I once was lost, but now I am found, was blind but now can see!

Thank you Lord for your amazing grace who saved ME!

We are T-7 days, 13 hours away from the big run. T-5 days away from take off to Boston. We are in a holding pattern for Baby Camdynn…any day now. And we are T-13 days until the big wedding. So, in the next 13 days we will become grandparents, in-laws and Boston Marathon finisher/spectators. Wow!!!

Psalms 46.10 will be my life verse for the next two weeks…Be still and know that I AM GOD!!!

In honor of the crazy joyousness that is ahead of us, we took an Easter canoe trip. We took time to spend quiet, quality time together before the craziness of life takes over the next two weeks. After celebrating our Lord’s life, death and resurrection…we celebrated our life together. We enjoyed the peacefulness of God’s creation…the quiet stream, the birds, the fish, the groundhogs, the flowers, the trees, the turtles…all within the serene surroundings close to our own home. We are so blessed!!

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On our canoe trip…I prayed that the Lord would work HIS will out in everything….Baby Camdynn’s arrival, my running of the Boston Marathon and the union of our son and his bride to be. His will, His perfect timing!!!

Joyous times are ahead…Keep Calm and trust the ALMIGHTY GOD!

1 Peter 5:7

Let Him have all your worries and cares, for He is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you.

John 14:27

I am leaving you with a gift – peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn’t fragile like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid.

Philippians 4:6-7

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs, and don’t forget to thank Him for His answers. If you do this, you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet and at rest as you trust in Christ.

Running blessed and for HIM!

Trish

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April 6, 2012 · 10:12 am

Very early in the morning…

Mark 1.35 ~ Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up,

left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.

As I sit on my front porch looking out, (this has a country song sound to it) I am thinking about how truly blessed I am to be sitting here at all. God is truly an amazing God. He has orchestrated so many incredible things in my life that can only be attributed to HIM. As I have said in the past, I can’t wait to get to heaven and turn the tapestry of my life over and see how all the threads meet up. There are no coincidences in life….just Godincidences. I have used this term before and will continue to use it. It would take me days to piece all of my crazy journeys together and how little things had to happen to make it work and they did. That is all God!

Luke 1.37 ~ For nothing is impossible with God.

My devotional scripture reference for today was:

John 10. ²⁵ Jesus answered, “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father’s name speak for me, ²⁶ but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. ²⁷ My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. ²⁸ I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. ²⁹ My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. ³⁰ I and the Father are one.” ³¹ Again the Jews picked up stones to stone him, ³² but Jesus said to them, “I have shown you many great miracles from the Father. For which of these do you stone me?”³³ “We are not stoning you for any of these,” replied the Jews, “but for blasphemy, because you, a mere man, claim to be God.” ³⁴ Jesus answered them, “Is it not written in your Law, ‘I have said you are gods’? ³⁵ If he called them ‘gods,’ to whom the word of God came—and the Scripture cannot be broken— ³⁶ what about the one whom the Father set apart as his very own and sent into the world? Why then do you accuse me of blasphemy because I said, ‘I am God’s Son’? ³⁷ Do not believe me unless I do what my Father does. ³⁸ But if I do it, even though you do not believe me, believe the miracles, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me, and I in the Father.” ³⁹ Again they tried to seize him, but he escaped their grasp.

As I read the scripture above, it made me think of all of the Godincidences in my life…they are God’s miracles being performed for us! Do we see them as the hand of God? or do we dismiss them as chance? I know without a doubt I am where I am right now because of His love and mercy. The bumps in the road, the mountain tops and the flat roads have all led me here…now!

When Facebook and I first got acquainted, I was in the mode of filling out the random questionnaire. My mind went back to one as I continued to ponder the thought of God’s hand and daily miracles in our lives. Here is a portion of one I filled out when I first moved to Tennessee…It is was titled 25 random things…(I have deleted some of them…;))
1. My first love is the Lord. He found me at age nine. I am very thankful for His never-ending grace.

2. I had a lot to learn on my own before the Lord sent me my second love…Mike. I found him online a little over two years ago(I was 37) and we haven’t looked back. I am still amazed how we met b/c of Mike’s total dislike for the computer…it is only proof God is still in the miracle-working business. Mike is my best friend and am so thankful the Lord allowed our paths to cross in the crazy way it did!

3. I am honored to have been raised by parents who are still happily married and love the Lord with all their hearts. I am Trish b/c of Eddie Lou and Frank. Thanks, mom and dad …I love y’all! I also have an amazing older sister and younger brother…Lisa and Rob. I thank the Lord for my awesome family!!

5. In my almost 40 years(43 now…as of yesterday) I have lived in over 35 different structures in 5 different states ( AR, TX, CA, GA, and TN) and two countries (USA, UK). Whew…I am thankful to finally have a permanent home.

6. I have been blessed with many, many life long friends all over the country and in England. They have made me who I am today!

7. I am the very proud mom of two children – Chase(17 soon to be 18)(NOW 21! and getting married) and Brittany (20 soon to be 21)(now 24 and getting ready to have a baby). God knew what He was doing when he gave them to me at an older age. They are still alive and I am not crazy…yet. I love them like they are my own…b/c they are!

8. I have testified in front of the Texas Senate and House of representatives for a character education bill.

9. I LOVE college football…Go Hogs! It is hard to be Hog surrounded by Vols…but I am doing my best.

10. From the time I was 18 I visited California every year until two years ago.

11. I love to travel and in my 3 1/2 years living in England I was able to visit at least 16 countries. I was truly blessed during my time over there. I had an awesome church and great friends/family.

12. I love to be outdoors in God’s awesome creation. I know that is why He saved TN for last…I have water and mountains all within 10 minutes from my home. I love it! (this is why my birthday present was just perfect!!)

15. I worked for an incredible photography studio in CA. They shot million dollar weddings while I played gopher collecting the bridemaids and groomsmen. It was a fun job!!!

16. I own an English cat named TJ. He flew back over the ocean with me. I adopted him while I lived overseas.

18. I have run 5 marathons. 2 in CA, 1 in London, 1 in Bermuda, and my last one was in Prague. I am training for a 1/2 now. (This is the big change…I will run number 8 in 10 days!!! I will have run the past three within 10 months of each other…whew, my legs need a break…but all because of HIM!)

19. I love chocolate…but that is not random at all!!!

20. I still don’t know what I want to be when I grow up. Maybe something in the fitness field!

21. I went to Ouachita Baptist University. I followed my parents, grandparents, sister and then my brother came too. It was an amazing chapter in my life. I have many lifelong friends from that great time in my life.

22. I don’t delete my emails. I guess I am the laziest person ever. It is amazing I am doing this!

23. I was on Wheel of Fortune. I didn’t win any money. I did get to call the Hogs on national TV…but I walked away with the $500 consolation prize and the other two won over $30.000 each.

24. I can build a fire in our wood stove and I have chickens out by the barn where I can go get my eggs. It is great to live in the country. We also have a 4500 gallon Koi pond that my VERY talented husband built. He built our house too…among many, many other things in the house. How did I get so lucky??? I didn’t…the Lord blessed me way beyond my wildest dreams.

25. My life has a new direction now that I am a wife and a mom. I love it and can’t wait to see how it unfolds day by day. The Lord is my strength and my helper…I need all I can get!

As I reread this…I am SO very thankful the Lord has blessed me in so many ways. But most of all I am thankful that HE died for our sins and set us free to live with HIM in eternity. As Easter approaches, don’t forget His sacrifice – the ultimate sacrifice – Jesus’ life and God’s only son!

Thank you Lord for loving us so much no matter what we have done or how awful we think we are!! You sent Jesus in our place. If we believe and accept you as our Savior, we can say with a confident YES we will see you in heaven. AMEN! And while we are here on earth help us to see your hand working in our lives through everything….everything….everything!!!

WE are More Than Conquerors because….

Romans 8.28 ~ And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who

have been called according to his purpose.

Philippians 1. 6 ~ being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion

until the day of Christ Jesus.

James 1. 4 ~ Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

I am not running the Boston Marathon in 10 days by chance. His hand orchestrated this amazing journey. He will complete what He finished. He will be the reason I start and finish the race.

Hebrews 12.1-2 ~ Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.² Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

This is my prayer this week…that I can throw off anything that hinders me…pride, self-doubt, fatigue, fear – and that I can run this race for HIM….let me become less and HIM become more!!

John 3.30 ~ He must become greater; I must become less.

Proverbs 15.33 ~Before honour is humility.

HUMILIATION of soul always brings a positive blessing with it. If we empty our hearts of self God will fill them with His love. He who desires close communion with Christ should remember the word of the Lord, “To this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at My word.” Stoop if you would climb to heaven. Do we not say of Jesus, “He descended that He might ascend”? so must you. You must grow downwards, that you may grow upwards; for the sweetest fellowship with heaven is to be had by humble souls, and by them alone. God will deny no blessing to a thoroughly humbled spirit. “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven,” with all its riches and treasures. The whole exchequer of God shall be made over by deed of gift to the soul which is humble enough to be able to receive it without growing proud because of it. God blesses us all up to the full measure and extremity of what it is safe for Him to do. If you do not get a blessing, it is because it is not safe for you to have one. If our heavenly Father were to let your unhumbled spirit win a victory in His holy war, you would pilfer the crown for yourself, and meeting with a fresh enemy you would fall a victim; so that you are kept low for your own safety. When a man is sincerely humble, and never ventures to touch so much as a grain of the praise, there is scarcely any limit to what God will do for him. Humility makes us ready to be blessed by the God of all grace, and fits us to deal efficiently with our fellow men. True humility is a flower which will adorn any garden. This is a sauce with which you may season every dish of life, and you will find an improvement in every case. Whether it be prayer or praise, whether it be work or suffering, the genuine salt of humility cannot be used in excess.

from Streams of the Desert Devotional – borrowed from a friend.

(another example of God’s perfect timing and Godincidence!!!)

Running Blessed and for HIM!

Trish

10 days 1 hour 10 minutes…until my 2012 Boston Marathon official start!

Okay…how for a Godincidence happening as I type the last words of this blog…

The doorbell rings…and guess what is HERE??? God is so good…this is His perfect timing once again. I am headed out the door in one hour to do a TV interview about this God-given journey with a local TV station…and now I get to wear my entire Team Hoyt warm-up!!! Woo hoo! Thank you Lord for the little things that are oh, so BIG!

To Him be the Glory…GREAT things He hath done!!!

As we go on this journey and see an earthly father’s devotion to his son…think about our Heavenly Father’s DEVOTION to us!

James 1.17 ~ Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the

Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

Matthew 6.26 ~ Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?

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January 3, 2012 · 3:12 pm

Yes, You Can! – Yes, I Can!

Yesterday I called my mom just to chat. Mom and I have a great relationship…I am blessed to have had her as a great mom growing up (and now) as well as have her as a best friend. I love you, Mom! Her advice and insight into life has helped me get to where I am now. (Dad’s too!) But, mom and I are a lot alike in many ways. She ran, I watched and I followed. She and I both worry a bit at times. We are also both great at getting things done and getting them done right… problem is sometimes we procrastinate. (In my opinion that is what makes us so good!) This all leads to yesterday’s conversation. We were talking about my fund-raising efforts. $5000 is a lot of money. We both know that. As always, mom continually encourages me to do my best. (Side-note: I am going to Boston because of the work ethic instilled in me by my parents. My determination and my drive are all part of my make up because I have seen it and lived it with them.) Back to the conversation, mom asked how I was going to raise the remaining 75% by April 15. I told her I had a plan. I had ideas. We would do it. God opened this door and He will get me there as long as I do my part.

Here is the first step…writing down the plan! As they say…writing things down makes things happen. It makes things come to life. It makes the invisible, visible! As stated by Giovanni Livera : “It’s the little things that you do in the middle of the day that go a long way.” Including committing your goals to paper. And that’s how writing leads to success.

Plan of Success – $5000 – really only $3750 to go…

Goals:

25% by January 1 – done

50% by February 1

75% by March 1

100% by April 1 or sooner -

100%+ by April 15

April 16 – run Boston fulfilling fund-raising goal of $5000

How will I reach these goals?

1. 5k run with Bayside Baptist Run For God group – details coming soon

2. Chili luncheon at Dayton City School

3. Possible Pennies for the CAN – Yes, You Can! drive – collecting pennies in school for Team Hoyt

4. Restaurant fundraiser

5. Raffle

6. Treadmill run

7. Ask for input, ideas and help from friends and family!!!!!!!!

Feel free to share this website with anyone and everyone…Team Hoyt needs your support…as do I! www.crowdrise.com/trishnewsom

These are all just ideas…some more developed than others. This is a start and I will work on each one, one step at a time…It is a marathon not a sprint. )

So, thanks to my MOM for helping me get to the point of writing it down. Step one – DONE!

Step two – BELIEVE I CAN DO IT! Here is a copy of a blog I read today that helps me here and in life…this is so good because it references on of my all time favorite children’s books….The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper

“The very little engine looked up and saw the tears in the dolls’ eyes. And she thought of the good little boys and girls on the other side of the mountain who would not have any toys or good food unless she helped. Then she said, ’I think I can. I think I can. I think I can.’” The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper

I Think I Can

Some days, it doesn’t matter how strong you are, how many miles you’ve run in training or how many yoga classes you’ve been to. Some days a workout, a race or a goal is completed not because of your physical training but because you believe in yourself. As Vince Lombardi put it, “Life’s battles don’t always go to the stronger or faster man. Sooner or later the man who wins is the man who thinks he can.”

During my time in graduate school I studied the idea of self-confidence. I found that while it is simple enough to be captured in a 37-page children’s book (that includes illustrations), it is also powerful enough to have filled thousands of pages of scientific journals.

Below are 3 tips on how you can capture the power of believing in yourself.

1. Positive Self-Talk

We Can Do It!

You know that point in a workout or race when you feel like you just can’t run any further? Start telling yourself that you can do it. This not only helps block that negative little voice that tells you to quit, but if you repeat it enough times chances are you’ll start believe it. Just like the little engine that could, this will help you run to the beat of, “I think I can, I think I can.”

2. Remind Yourself of Why You Can Achieve Your Goal

When self-doubt begins to sneak in start reminding yourself of all the reasons why you can achieve your goal. For example, if you’re running the Boston Marathon for the first time and nervous about running heartbreak hill, remind yourself that you qualified for this, you’ve run “x” many miles in preparation and you are ready!

3. Apply it to More Than Running

Self-confidence is powerful, so don’t just apply it running! Believe that you can achieve your goals and you will be more likely to actually achieve them. So, the next time you are faced with a mountain to climb take a note from the little engine and tell yourself, “I think I can. I think I can.”

courtesy of http://talk.brooksrunning.com/2011/12/15/the-power-of-believing-in-yourself/

Step three – DO IT!

So, to end this YES, I CAN do it blog…please feel free to make suggestions if you have any ideas at all! I am not worried like I used to be because I know I am here because God brought me here. The fund-raising is part of the process. Part of the trusting…kind of like Daniel in the lion’s den. God didn’t throw me in this to be defeated…He threw me in to allow me to trust and to let HIM show up and provide!

Daniel 6. 10-23

¹⁰ Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. ¹¹ Then these men went as a group and found Daniel praying and asking God for help. ¹² So they went to the king and spoke to him about his royal decree: “Did you not publish a decree that during the next thirty days anyone who prays to any god or human being except to you, Your Majesty, would be thrown into the lions’ den?” The king answered, “The decree stands—in accordance with the law of the Medes and Persians, which cannot be repealed.” ¹³ Then they said to the king, “Daniel, who is one of the exiles from Judah, pays no attention to you, Your Majesty, or to the decree you put in writing. He still prays three times a day.” ¹⁴When the king heard this, he was greatly distressed; he was determined to rescue Daniel and made every effort until sundown to save him. ¹⁵ Then the men went as a group to King Darius and said to him, “Remember, Your Majesty, that according to the law of the Medes and Persians no decree or edict that the king issues can be changed.” ¹⁶ So the king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions’ den. The king said to Daniel, “May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you!” ¹⁷ A stone was brought and placed over the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the rings of his nobles, so that Daniel’s situation might not be changed.¹⁸ Then the king returned to his palace and spent the night without eating and without any entertainment being brought to him. And he could not sleep. ¹⁹ At the first light of dawn, the king got up and hurried to the lions’ den. ²⁰ When he came near the den, he called to Daniel in an anguished voice, “Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to rescue you from the lions?” ²¹ Daniel answered, “May the king live forever! ²² My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.” ²³ The king was overjoyed and gave orders to lift Daniel out of the den. And when Daniel was lifted from the den, no wound was found on him, because he had trusted in his God.

I look forward to Him showing up and showing off! Praise be to God!

Running Blessed,

Trish

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September 26, 2011 · 9:18 pm

Salt and light…the almost final answer…

Image by Tojosan via Flickr

Dear Trish:

Thank you for submitting your application for entry into the 2012 Boston Marathon. Regrettably, we are unable to accept your application due to field size limitations and the large number of applications we received from qualified runners.

Name of Applicant	Gender	Age on 4-16-2012	Submitted Qualifying Time
Trish Newsom	F	43	3:48:59

Entries from applicants in your age group were accepted through and including the time 3:48:46. (13 seconds shy…13 seconds!)

So…that is where we are…13 seconds shy of running the 2012 Marathon with the “qualified” group. In preparation for this day I start collecting scriptures and one quote that I knew would encourage and comfort at the same time…here they are:

Don’t count the steps ahead; just add up the total of steps already covered, and multiply it by faith, confidence, and endurance. Always remember that for those who persist, today’s dreams are transformed into tomorrow’s successes.”~ Kelly D. Caron

Pslam 66.19-20

19 but God has surely listened
and heard my voice in prayer.

20 Praise be to God,
who has not rejected my prayer
or withheld his love from me!

John 15.7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.

Hebrews11.6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

Psalm 62

5 Find rest, O my soul, in God alone;
my hope comes from him.

6 He alone is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.

7 My salvation and my honor depend on God;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.

8 Trust in him at all times, O people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge.

During the day today, I was struggling. I text some of my family and friends and asked them to pray for peace. Yoli…my tried and true running buddy, called me back and said, “Can we pray?” She prayed the sweetest prayer. She spoke the words I could not. She asked for His will to be done…and let Him know our desires. But she ended by praying His glory being shown in all of this. You all know this has been my prayer all along. Then my sister, Lisa text me the following scripture:

John 11:40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?”

At this time I also put in my headphones to try to process peace with some Christian music. I currently had the station on Easy Listening. But to my surprise, the Lord had His song on the Easy Listening station for me…I Surrender All – God put this song on that station at the very moment I needed it!!!!

He was orchestrating peace through far away prayer by many of you, direct prayer by Yoli, scripture sent by my sister and then His song on the radio. I was listening!

This all prepared me for the above email. The one that says we appreciate your effort but you missed it by 13 seconds. But did I? NO! I qualified. And as Hebrews 12.1 states…

Hebrews 12

¹ Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,

That race is the 2012 Boston Marathon…so as of right now, I am researching and applying to run for a charity. How incredible would it be to run as a qualifier…AND to run to help others in a way I would not running solo? My husband is fired up. After being disappointed with me and for me he realized we could do this. We could still run and do it for others!!! My goal is to apply to be part of the Alzheimer’s Association charity team. Being that Tennessee is God’s chosen home for me…and that Pat Summit is the new face for this disease, she would be the drive behind this effort. She is a lady of integrity who has not given up…she is the face for perseverance. My grandmother also suffered from dementia. This disease is close to many close to all of us.

This is also being done for my incredible nephew, Connor. I have learned so much from him in regards to giving. Connor and his family have benefitted from the Ronald McDonald House Charity during his battle with Aplastic Anemia. He is collecting tab tops to raise funds for the RMH charity. (If this was a chosen charity for Boston, I would be all over it…but unfortunately, it is not.) He is teaching all of us what it means to give selflessly even in the midst of struggles. Connor, you make us proud to know you and to be able to call you family. You and your family have taught all of us the meaning of the following scripture:

Matthew 5:14-16

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. “Nor do men light a lamp, and put it under the peck-measure, but on the lampstand; and it gives light to all who are in the house. “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

Stay tuned for this update…if this is not what God has planned…then I will keep moving forward and praying for His will in regards to my running. Let’s continue to…not count the steps ahead; just add up the total of steps already covered, and multiply it by faith, confidence, and endurance. Always remember that for those who persist, today’s dreams are transformed into tomorrow’s successes.”~ Kelly D. Caron

Blessings have been numerous throughout this process. Friendships have been formed. Prayers have answered. Spiritual growth has been present. Goals have been met. This is just the start of the journey to the next mailbox….

Tag Archives: boston marathon

A marathon of a different type…Taylor Strong!

The day after….

Cautious Confidence….

2012 blessings in photos…

The ? of the month…