A Sunrise Air Force Base Run

Tags

Military, Running

Fact- I didn’t run for a week after my latest half marathon. I walked and did pilates, but that was it. On Sunday morning, I decided it was time to start running. I think I was feeling a bit inspired since I was staying in a hotel on an Air Force Base. I was there to see my brother graduate from pilot training (he has his wings now!!), and I thought this was a great time to jump back into the groove.

I set my alarm for 6:30 am, ate a quick breakfast in the hotel room, warmed up, laced up my shoes, and hit the road! The hotel I was staying at was very close to the air field, and the sun was rising over the landing strips which made for a beautiful view. On my other side was field after field that had actual air force planes on display. You can hardly get a better view then that, right?

The first half mile I felt pretty stiff, but then loosened up a bit as I hit a good stride and breathing pattern. At mile 0.9 my IT bands started to stiffen and hurt. Now, as you know, I’m no stranger to IT band pain, but it usually doesn’t hit until mile 2-4 of runs, so this was surprising. But, seeing as I had just completed a half marathon and then had a long car and plane trip a few days later, maybe this wasn’t completely surprising. I ended up running a 5k around the base, and I’m not sure I would’ve made it that far without the scenery and beautiful morning weather. I was stiff, aching, and my IT bands felt so tight that it was difficult to bend my leg. OUCH. I guess I need to get in some more foam rolling sessions!

But regardless of the pain, this run was truly fantastic. It was still, peaceful, and I was filled with gratitude for those who serve our nation. This run, while it showed me that I’m still not back 100% physically, I’m back mentally, and that’s a good thing!

Thanks again to all our veterans and active duty military members, along with their families!

Now it’s your turn to share! Have you been to a military base before? What did you do to “celebrate” Veteran’s Day?

On This Veteran’s Day, We Remember

Tags

Family, Military, Thankful

Today is Veteran’s Day, so I won’t be doing my typical Mental Health Monday post; today I want to focus on our veterans. Last year I wrote a post on how to support our veterans, including a list of things that you can do to participate and show your thanks. Make sure to check it out.

This past weekend I spent on an Air Force Base as my brother officially received his pilot wings. I stood there and clapped for the 20-something men and women who have given up their lives to fly fights, bombers, and carriers to keep the rest of us safe. It was moving to see their excitement and commitment. I stood and watched our nation’s newest pilots take the next step in their service to our country.

I’m very aware that no matter what I do, what I say, or how I respond, it could never ever equal the service and sacrifice that our veterans have made. But that doesn’t mean we don’t try to give our thanks to them in the ways that we can.

THANK YOU to all the men and woman who serve our country, as well as the men and women who support those who serve our country. Regardless, it’s certainly a burden to bear, but one that is well worth it.