Inspiring Others

I'm excited to see that Friday has finally arrived, but at the same time it's been such a hectic week that I haven't accomplished nearly anything I wanted to. We had some plumbing issues, which caused me to have to shower at the gym this week, throwing my usual schedule a bit off and making washing dishes impossible.

We're having some people over tomorrow for a little engagement celebration, so I was hoping to have the house spic 'n span by now, but no dice. But thankfully (to the manfriend and plumber's help), we have functioning pipes so that is enough for now.

Now on to the topic of the day...

Last week post marathon and engagement, I received a few emails and comments about how I had inspired others to workout or train for a race.

Hey Lauren, I've been reading your blog for awhile - I actually found it while googleing lunchtime workouts! Just wanted to say congrats on your awesome marathon! Your blog helped inspire me to do my first half last year...and I just signed up for a full yesterday. Thanks for the motivation :)

Jenn from Travelstar

As a blogger with a small(ish) readership, I was shocked and flattered. Not to mention, after you've done something for so long you sort of think of it as "no big deal" and forget that others don't see it that way. 

For example, I hadn't even told my office I was training for the Eugene Marathon because it just didn't occur to me. I'm always running 25-30 miles a week so another 10-20 per week doesn't seem like THAT much more.

When someone asked marathon week if I was training for something and I mentioned Eugene, I think they were all a little blown away.

The point is, no matter who you are or what small thing you're doing good for yourself or others, you never know the difference it can make.

I'm constantly inspired and pushed by others' actions and beliefs and don't always share it with them. If you have a chance to tell someone how much they've inspired you to make a change, do it.  You'll both be better for it.

Sitting outside at 6am Thurs morning reading a new library book. 

Great way to start the day!

On the running front: I was surprised that my knees have still been a bit achey this week and my calves are tight. Runs have been great mentally, but not superb physically. It was great however to get back to Lifeforce and get my butt kicked doing burpees, sprinting and the like.

Wedding Stuff

We still haven't thought too much about location or date. What I do know is that wherever it is, I want it to feel like us. I'd love to choose a location that incorporated nature - rustic lodge, outdoor venue with beautiful backdrops, mountain/water views or an updated barn.

I did find some cool inspiration for engagement parties, but I'm not quite a crafty party planner like that. Hopefully, someday.

I found this to be a pretty hilarious article on the hassle of weddings and being a bridesmaid.

How has your week been? Any advice on wedding planning? Has someone told you they were inspired by your actions - and how did you react?