It never fails.  Each and every AMP’D bootcamp tops the previous one.  We may have to start referring to them as seasons like some of these popular television shows.  During Missouri’s season 3, we developed the strongest bonds, tightest camaraderie, and most kickin’ results yet!  Every participant brought something unique and special to the table. 

Here is a quote from one of our more vocal cadets who “never runs out of material, attacks the drill, and frees his mind.” 

“The greatest obstacles we have to overcome are the ones we place in front of ourselves.”  Pete McCaffrey

What obstacle is in your path?  Who put it there?  YOU.  Do you fear obstacles?  OR Do they fear you?

It is the beginning of a new week, month, and season. Stop talking about what you want to do and do it! No more comparing to the past, our peers, or our potential. I am putting away the race results, the play by plays of days gone by, and setting new standards. The excitement of these past accomplishments are fleeting. I am looking for new inspiration each day. I need to find motivation from new people. Do you have a story to tell in regards to weight loss, clean eating, or your recent AMP’D bootcamp experience? Share it as a comment and I will post it. You never know who you can inspire or who can motivate you.
Time to get our heads out of la la land. “Well done is better than well said.” Let’s take this next week by storm. Are you with me?

Just like my first marathon that took me more than 5 hours to complete, I didn’t reach my goal because I didn’t really want to reach it.

I ran the Go! In 4:36:33.  It’s a huge improvement.  I gave it all I had to give and could not have improved on that time, on that day, on that course.   I did find time to facebook and twitter my thoughts during the course.  I stopped to talk to someone I hadn’t seen in a long time.  I searched my IPOD for my favorite songs.  I adjusted my ponytail so many times that I broke it and had to run with my hair down.  I forgot my inserts for my shoes.  All excuses.  Want to know the real reason it took me 4:36:33? 

I enjoyed it!  It was a brutal course.  Make no mistake that it did kick my behind, but I loved the time to think.  I savored the time I was able to run with friends.  I made the most of the time I spent running alone.  The text messages I received along the way from my very dearest of friends lifted me up to a level of happiness I have never experienced before.  I was running on air.  I didn’t want it to ever be over.   (My thighs did.  They are reading this post under protest.)  There were friends behind me if I fell back, at the finish line to greet me, and precious angels on the sidelines and on my phone!  Coach, I’d like to thank you especially for your comment when I thought I was hitting the “wall.”

Once I saw the flag at Union Station, I knew I was all but done.  I started walking.  I knew I didn’t make my goal time.  It was all but over.  I was sad.  I was defeated.  Then I heard the most beautiful voice yelling “Go Ann.”  Screaming at me to go!  It was one of my original running partners, an Ellipse instructor (that explains the screaming), and a savior.  I was so tired, but after a big hug I sprinted to the end.  I felt like a winner.  I’ve never felt that way before.  I’d never felt so strong. Incredibly, it wasn’t my strength that made me feel strong.  It was yours!

I’m forever grateful.