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. {1 Corinthians 9:24}
Hi, I’m Melody – a running lover and fitness fanatic with a margarita problem! I live in Arlington, VA with my husband (BJ), twenty-three pairs of running shoes, and 3 bikes. I’ve been running for as long as I can remember. It’s one of 5 things I can not live without (the other 4? God, family, friends, BJ).
BJ & I met at a local running group {and eventually, BJ propsed on a run}
I love running. I really can’t think of any other way to describe it. Running keeps me: Healthy. Sane. Happy. Fit. Strong. Real. Dedicated. Passionate. Fast. Inspired. Motivated. In love.
I grew up watching my mom run & race. So, it was no surprise that I would grow up to be a runner, just like my mom. The only difference: I loved track and hated distance. I vividly remember screaming “I hate XC” during meets – but my mom always told me that it would make me faster on the track, so I continuted to run (and hate) XC. After 4 years of hard work and dedication, I was offered a track & field scholarship to the University of Central Florida, where I specialized in 400m hurdles and 400m. It is one of my greatest accomplishments to date. After college, I discovered that “distance” running wasn’t so bad. I ran a 5k. Then a 10k. And, then a half marathon. It took another 6 years, but I finally ran my first marathon in 2011. I even added triathlon to the mix, too.
My beautiful mom {and the reason I’m a runner}
In October 2011, I landed my dream job with Brooks Running {it only took 2 years, a passion for the brand/running & help from a lot of really influential people – that I owe big time – to land the job, but I couldn’t be more excited}. I’m also a certified USATF running coach, personal trainer, Girls on the Run coach, Pacers fun run leader, Fitfluential Ambassador, Nuun Ambassador and Sunday School teacher (I realize that the last one has nothing to do with running, but it’s a huge part of who I am). I’m extremely passionate about running & my community – and love that I can finally blend the two together.
My goal race for 2012 was the Boston Marathon. It’s still hard for me to talk about without getting emotional – Boston broke my heart – but I was honored to be a part of such a legendary race. If you have have a chance to run, don’t pass up the opportunity. It’s beyond worth it.
2013 is my year to focus on more – more yoga, more spin, more swimming, more pilates, more kickboxing, and of course, more running. I’ve already decided not to run a marathon in 2013, but 2014 better watch out (I’ll be more than ready for another 26.2 by then). I plan to start coaching and training more – I love being able to help/coach a runner through a program and watch dreams be achieved.
At 29, I feel stronger and faster than I ever have. I’m pretty sure that running smart, taking days off, yoga, chiropractic care, eating healthy, lots of sleep, and love/support are why I’m in this {happy} place.
I hope that, through my love for running & margaritas, I can inspire others to believe in themselves and follow their dreams. Running has taken me to places I never knew possible {and they weren’t all good places or experiences, but I learned from each one}. Running is my one true passion, and I love being able to share it with you. Thanks for hanging out with me!
