Forgive me if this blog is long! I will have to break it up in parts. I wanted to follow up on our event. You have been along for the ride, thus far so it only makes sense to keep you in the loop.
Before we get to the race, I want to tell you the why?
Why this race?
This event is so important. A few years ago this was my first ever 5k that I did for time, that I ran and not walked. It was divine, because at the time we had a little buddy who was about 2 years old battling cancer. So to run for children's cancer research it only made sense! The only thing that I struggle with is that it is always on a Sunday. We have made a commitment in our family that we would not allow Noah to play sports that require Sunday games. We want him to understand that Sundays are for church and family.
Why mile 5 is so important to me?
Six months after this first race, I did the long beach half marathon. This marathon was ran on behalf of a few children that were still battling cancer. In that short time, we lost one. Gracie Arroz, she was 16 years old and my inspiration for this marathon. She was a fighter and her endurance to run her race of faith battling this disease was what drove me in my training and my run.
In that marathon, at the fifth mile, I had a moment. I posted a picture of that mile marker and the caption read, "The first five were for you Gracie". Immediately after the Lord gave me a vision and placed a desire in my heart. A desire to get people off the couch , encouraging them to do something they probably would never do. To run in an organize race. Not just for a medal, but so that they can experience the spiritual journey of training, and in the process hopefully get a little healthy. I knew if I could do it anyone can! fo real folks!
To really understand what Paul talks about in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. Immediately after that vision the Lord gave me the name "Runners for Grace." As I continued to run, and pray I was reminded that the number five in numerology means Grace! Gracie is the heart and soul of our team!
Last year was the first time "Runners for Grace" participated in this run/walk.
3- 5K Runners
10- 5K walkers
3- Kids 1k
For a total of 16 people
I expressed to a few last year that it would have been cool to have someone in every event. That day I went home with that prayer, that RFG would be represented in every race.
God answers prayers!!!
This year? We had someone in EVERY event! Even the bike event!!!!
1- Biker for the 14 Mile Fun tour
6- Half Marathon Runners
8- 5K Runners
11- 10K Runners/Walkers
12- 5K walkers
2- Kids 1k Runners
For a total of 39 people
I was so overwhelmed that I am not sure what to pray for, for next year! We were blessed to have our shirts donated, Thank you Mike! We were blessed to have a place to set up shop! Thank you Emma and Patricia for helping set up. We were blessed to have a team sign, Thank you syl. And I am blessed to have a husband who supported everything that the Lord has called us to do.
This day could not have been possible without the help of several people. I will share more about the day on tomorrows blog. As I left and reflected on the day, I realized that although we were not at church on Sunday, we were the church and I will talk more about that on the next post!!!!
Run to Win!
Moni
P.S. If you participated this weekend, feel free to share.. unfortunately I didn't get to sit and talk with everyone and would love to hear how you all did and how you felt today?
Also it isn't to late to still donate! Our team page will be up for 91 days so feel free to share!
Monday, May 6, 2013
Friday, May 3, 2013
The voice in my head
The voice in my head tells me that our team isn't big enough. The voice in my head tells me that my attempt to fund raise sucks (for lack of a better word). The voice in my head tells me that I didn't train enough and eat good enough. The voice in my head tells me that I am crazy for doing another half marathon, when I was reminded a few days ago, I said I would never. The voice in my head tells me that on Sunday everything will fall apart, shirt sizes will be wrong, people will be late and it will be my fault.
BUT...........
The voice in my head lies! God said, He will and He does. First step... don't listen to the voice in your head. Next step.. Pray.. and lastly... Run! I'm going to run like someone is chasing with a gun! haha better yet I am going to run like someone is dangling a donut in front of me!!!!
I am going to run to win!!!!
xoxox
Moni
BUT...........
This why we are doing it!
This is who we are doing it for, and the many more who are battling!
And this is how we are doing it! Together in prayer!
I am going to run to win!!!!
xoxox
Moni
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Runners for Grace #2
"Don't you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize." 1 Cor. 9:24-25 NLT
We are a few days out to our walks and runs. Perhaps, like me you are sitting there thinking you could have walked more, ran more or ate better? Well, yes I know, I am right there along side of you. But what I love about Gods word, is that we are reminded of what is important.
Not your time, or the place you will come in, or the medal you will get for finishing. Paul says at the tail end of that scripture that we are competing for an eternal prize one that will not fade away. What is that prize? For me it is the time spent with the Lord while training. The tears shed and prayers said while I was running. It was hearing Gods voice when I was tired. It is the money earned that will be put to research to potentially save a child and spare a parents grief. It is the 3 or maybe more hours that I will run along side my sister friends completing what we started. It is knowing you, your prayers and support. It is the sacrifices that were made by my family, and the obedience to God for doing what He called us to do. And it is the voice of God when I cross the finish line saying "well done".
What is it for you? I pray it is much more! I am praying for you all!
Here are a few things I have learned that might help if you are a first time runner. I am sure the Internet can give you more, but here are a few.
1. Typically it is kinda cool in the morning. If you are going to wear a light jacket, wear one you don't mind leaving. If you are running and don't want to carry it, typically you can toss it to the side and they will pick it up and donate it.
2. Pack light, although we are going to have a spot to put our stuff you wont need much. There are vendors and most of the food is free but there will be food trucks, so you might want to bring cash. Last year Lucille's was there giving away free plates of food.
3. Those doing long runs, there are water stations. A few spots for 10k people and 5k, for half marathoners there is some every two miles typically. If you are used to drinking it more, than that I would bring a water bottle or water belt.
10K & 1/2 marathoners- I would carry some type of protein bar, gel or shot blocks for your run. This is more for the 1/2 marathon people. This will give you that extra energy as you run. It really does help. I use shot blocks. They are these natural gummies, I take one at 3 miles and every other mile after that! Another good snack to pack is pretzels. The salt will be good for you.
Chewing Gum will help your breathing!
4. There is this thing called "Glide" you can find it at the running store. It looks like deodorant. It is good to put this in place that might rub together. I wont go there but it helps you not get blisters. Like under your arms, between your toes etc.
5. Starting tomorrow, start to load up on water and stretching and continue to eat healthy, do this till the day of. Saturday night, have fun with carbs, you will burn them Sunday. I am going to eat a fat pizza!
6. If you cant sleep Saturday night because of excitement or nerves, don't worry most runners don't really sleep. They say it doesn't make a difference, just don't go out and party! haha.. No really I think I slept like 4 hours last time.
7. Be sure to come early! Last thing you want to do is run late and not be able to stretch properly etc. I will send out the times and meeting place on Saturday night!
If you have any questions or need help, give me a call. I am by far an expert but I just learned a few things from last time around!
Run to win!!!!!
Moni
We are a few days out to our walks and runs. Perhaps, like me you are sitting there thinking you could have walked more, ran more or ate better? Well, yes I know, I am right there along side of you. But what I love about Gods word, is that we are reminded of what is important.
Not your time, or the place you will come in, or the medal you will get for finishing. Paul says at the tail end of that scripture that we are competing for an eternal prize one that will not fade away. What is that prize? For me it is the time spent with the Lord while training. The tears shed and prayers said while I was running. It was hearing Gods voice when I was tired. It is the money earned that will be put to research to potentially save a child and spare a parents grief. It is the 3 or maybe more hours that I will run along side my sister friends completing what we started. It is knowing you, your prayers and support. It is the sacrifices that were made by my family, and the obedience to God for doing what He called us to do. And it is the voice of God when I cross the finish line saying "well done".
What is it for you? I pray it is much more! I am praying for you all!
Here are a few things I have learned that might help if you are a first time runner. I am sure the Internet can give you more, but here are a few.
1. Typically it is kinda cool in the morning. If you are going to wear a light jacket, wear one you don't mind leaving. If you are running and don't want to carry it, typically you can toss it to the side and they will pick it up and donate it.
2. Pack light, although we are going to have a spot to put our stuff you wont need much. There are vendors and most of the food is free but there will be food trucks, so you might want to bring cash. Last year Lucille's was there giving away free plates of food.
3. Those doing long runs, there are water stations. A few spots for 10k people and 5k, for half marathoners there is some every two miles typically. If you are used to drinking it more, than that I would bring a water bottle or water belt.
10K & 1/2 marathoners- I would carry some type of protein bar, gel or shot blocks for your run. This is more for the 1/2 marathon people. This will give you that extra energy as you run. It really does help. I use shot blocks. They are these natural gummies, I take one at 3 miles and every other mile after that! Another good snack to pack is pretzels. The salt will be good for you.
Chewing Gum will help your breathing!
4. There is this thing called "Glide" you can find it at the running store. It looks like deodorant. It is good to put this in place that might rub together. I wont go there but it helps you not get blisters. Like under your arms, between your toes etc.
5. Starting tomorrow, start to load up on water and stretching and continue to eat healthy, do this till the day of. Saturday night, have fun with carbs, you will burn them Sunday. I am going to eat a fat pizza!
6. If you cant sleep Saturday night because of excitement or nerves, don't worry most runners don't really sleep. They say it doesn't make a difference, just don't go out and party! haha.. No really I think I slept like 4 hours last time.
7. Be sure to come early! Last thing you want to do is run late and not be able to stretch properly etc. I will send out the times and meeting place on Saturday night!
If you have any questions or need help, give me a call. I am by far an expert but I just learned a few things from last time around!
Run to win!!!!!
Moni
Sunday, April 28, 2013
One week! Runners for Grace, need to knows!
Runners for Grace!
So are you excited? We are exactly a week away for our marathons! I have to first apologize for the lack of communication and motivation on here. We are a week away and I haven't really been good about updating the blog, and fundraising.
I know from the beginning, It was one of my desires is to really get out there and fund raise, because it is such an important cause. I have seen first hand the funds raised being used for kids that are battling this awful monster! This foundation is legit!
But we still have one week to really push! I have to tell you how blown away I am to see us reach our team goal of walkers and runners! Seriously God blows me away! Last year it was our desire that we have someone represent us in every event, and guess what we do! We have someone doing the bike tour Saturday, people in the 5k, 10k , half marathon and the kids run!
I am not going to hang my head though, because we know it isn't how we start the race it is how we finish it, right? So start to hit up your friends, co workers, family or near by businesses. I am sure you have bought cookies, wrapping paper or cheesecake in the past right? Now's your turn!
Few important things:
1. Pray.. Be sure to be in prayer this week! Specifically for:
Health, Eating, Injuries, the Team, all the runners, and our cancer warriors!
2. As you eat healthy, drink lots of water and make sure to stretch alot throughout the week.
3. Don't worry about getting out to Irvine to pick up your bibs, shirts etc. I will pick up everything for the team.
4. I will have everything for you all Sunday morning. More details on that to come! We will have a booth, and we will have someone there at all times so you have a place to leave your stuff that day. I would pack minimal though.
5. If you can please do me one favor, if you can email me at faithfoodfitness@gmail.com with your email address and phone number I would appreciate it. I will be emailing you all on Saturday with the meeting times and location.
6. I will be drafting a fundraiser letter, if you are interested in it, please let me know I can send it to you, this would be good to send out asking for people to sponsor you.
7. Team Shirts- so with registration, you all will get a shirt. In addition to that shirt, We got sponsored by Mike Garcia company for team shirts. This will have our team name and scripture on it so we can be in unity that day. This shirt will also be given to you on Sunday. We might have a few extra for those who signed up late or that day.
8. look out for more communications from me coming this week!
I am really excited and pumped up. I have been praying for you all and thank each and everyone of you that have taken a step of faith to come along side our team. In your prayers please remember my knee! I would appreciate it!
If you have any questions, You can contact either myself, Patricia or Emma!
Love you guys!
Mon
Thursday, March 28, 2013
five weeks and counting!
We have five weeks till "Runners for Grace" will hit the pavement and walk or run in this years "Race for the cure." Now I wanted to explain the vision, because it was sometime ago and I do not want anyone think that RFG is solely for those who run.
In fact RFG is for those who don't run! Two years ago when I ran my first marathon, in honor of Gracie the Lord gave me a vision. To challenge women or men, to get off the couch and do something for their health. To take a leap of faith and train for an organized run. The "Running" part is taken from 1 Corinthians 9:24. After training for my first half, I realized how much the the physical running paralells the spiritual run that is talked about in this passage.
Training for me has been so much more of a spiritual training than anything else. Through it not only did my legs get stronger but my faith did as well. There is something about taking a long run, with you, and Jesus and some good worship music. Perhaps because this is a time of just you and your mind. There is no other person or distraction when you are in that place only runners or walkers know about. I want that for me, I want that for you! I want you to train and know what it is like to cross that finish line and know that YOU did it through faith.
And then there is the inspiration behind the team. I didn't know Gracie at all, but there is one thing that inspired me about her when I heard people talk about her, and the short meeting we had. She was full of fire and spunk, and she was a fighter of faith. That is what I desire of everyone on our team, that they would be filled with that same passion to run, not only the physical marathon but the marathon of life! The race of faith! Gracie has inspired so many people and she is the driving force behind this team.
And now the cause! It was only fitting that we would participate in a run/walk that is focused to pediatric cancer research! In Honor of Gracie, and those that are battling it is our duty to do what we can. Two years ago we were praying for five kids with this team, since then two of them have been taken home! We rejoice but we also hope that one day, we can find a way to protect our babies!
So why run or why donate? Because you will be blessed more than you are blessing this foundation with your time or money! Will you join us? I hope you do!
If you are interested in joining or donating to our team go to the right ------------------>
There is a link to our team page to join or donate! Keep in mind the prices are going up in 6 days!!!
If you are interested in joining, have questions or need help please let us know.. I have been blessed with a few ladies who have come along side me to coordinate!! Thank you love you!!!!
In fact RFG is for those who don't run! Two years ago when I ran my first marathon, in honor of Gracie the Lord gave me a vision. To challenge women or men, to get off the couch and do something for their health. To take a leap of faith and train for an organized run. The "Running" part is taken from 1 Corinthians 9:24. After training for my first half, I realized how much the the physical running paralells the spiritual run that is talked about in this passage.
Training for me has been so much more of a spiritual training than anything else. Through it not only did my legs get stronger but my faith did as well. There is something about taking a long run, with you, and Jesus and some good worship music. Perhaps because this is a time of just you and your mind. There is no other person or distraction when you are in that place only runners or walkers know about. I want that for me, I want that for you! I want you to train and know what it is like to cross that finish line and know that YOU did it through faith.
And then there is the inspiration behind the team. I didn't know Gracie at all, but there is one thing that inspired me about her when I heard people talk about her, and the short meeting we had. She was full of fire and spunk, and she was a fighter of faith. That is what I desire of everyone on our team, that they would be filled with that same passion to run, not only the physical marathon but the marathon of life! The race of faith! Gracie has inspired so many people and she is the driving force behind this team.
And now the cause! It was only fitting that we would participate in a run/walk that is focused to pediatric cancer research! In Honor of Gracie, and those that are battling it is our duty to do what we can. Two years ago we were praying for five kids with this team, since then two of them have been taken home! We rejoice but we also hope that one day, we can find a way to protect our babies!
So why run or why donate? Because you will be blessed more than you are blessing this foundation with your time or money! Will you join us? I hope you do!
If you are interested in joining or donating to our team go to the right ------------------>
There is a link to our team page to join or donate! Keep in mind the prices are going up in 6 days!!!
If you are interested in joining, have questions or need help please let us know.. I have been blessed with a few ladies who have come along side me to coordinate!! Thank you love you!!!!
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
The "Gracie" Scarf
EXCLUSIVE!!!!!!! As you know our team will participate in this years run or walk for finding a cure for pediatric cancer research. Here is another way you can support!
The fabulous Frances Ramos, of P31 photography and crochet extraordinaire has made a special piece that is exclusive to Team Runners for Grace! Introducing the Gracie scarf, color inspired by Gracie herself.
The fabulous Frances Ramos, of P31 photography and crochet extraordinaire has made a special piece that is exclusive to Team Runners for Grace! Introducing the Gracie scarf, color inspired by Gracie herself.
We have four to sell at an exclusive price of 25.00 for runners/walkers of team Runners for Grace or 35.00 for non registered walkers or runners. I will cover the shipping if needed. Although the weather is changing it is still pretty cool out and this is a beauty! We only have four so the first four people to respond it is yours!
Email me, FB me or Text me if you are interesting in purchasing one! All money will be donated on behalf of our team to the foundation!
Stay tuned for more updates :)
Moni
Saturday, February 23, 2013
ping pong germs and rest!
The house was quiet, as it should be at 1030 at night, the only light was that of the computer monitor that I was staring at. As I sat there looking at an excel sheet full of jumbled numbers barely able to keep my eyes open, I knew it was time to go to bed.
I crawled into my side of the bed, and no sooner did my head hit the pillow when I heard the grumbling of his tummy. It was loud and mid turn I heard his moan. I took in a deep sigh and went down stairs to get my hubby some water and a Tylenol.
Matthew 11:28 "Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
Oh Lord I need rest. You see my husband was the next victim in the ping pong of germs that the family has been tossing back and forth, in this game with never ending overtime. Someone told me that other day that I needed to rest. Driving home this morning, I had to ask the Lord what rest looked like in the middle of crazy.
Where does rest fit in with a schedule of kids, school, tball, ministry, sickness, heartache and burdens. In the middle of crisis of a friends marriage falling apart, waiting to see if grandma is going to heaven or decided to hang out a little longer here on earth. School, Tball practices, disciplining and well plain old parenting.
I think that we have this false expectation of what rest looks like. You know like sitting on a beach, in the sun with a good book, alone. Or perhaps, renting a movie, crawling into bed and not coming out after hours of vegging. ummm yea, nobody got time for that in this house.
But you know the "rest" that Jesus is talking about here in this passage isn't of a physical rest. It is one of a mental rest. Look I can retreat to the beach and have an afternoon of relaxing but the truth is the moment I get in the car, the crazy comes back. Jesus gives us an invitation to come to Him, to find that mental rest that only He can give.
He is essentially saying, look homie, come here.. give me what is heavy in your heart, and leave it here. Allow me to deal with it, let me take if off your shoulders for a moment. Give your mind a rest from thinking so much about it.
Not convinced yet..
Think of this from a parents perspective for a moment if you will. Your child wakes up crying with fever and walks into your room. What do you do? Send them back to the room with instructions how to take care of themselves? No way.
You see their need, feel their pain, calling to you, you medicate them, comfort them and lay with them. In that moment, mom never felt so better. You are taking their burden of being sick and allowing them to find the rest in your presence. If you an earthly mother, can be so loving and gracious, imagine the heavenly father.
Are you in the middle of crazy? Carrying burdens, even some that are not even yours? Would you accept the invitation that the Lord is giving you. Come into His presence so that He can help give you that rest? Are you tired of being tired?
I am praying with you and for you.. May you have rest tonight!!!
Love you,
Moni
I crawled into my side of the bed, and no sooner did my head hit the pillow when I heard the grumbling of his tummy. It was loud and mid turn I heard his moan. I took in a deep sigh and went down stairs to get my hubby some water and a Tylenol.
Matthew 11:28 "Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
Oh Lord I need rest. You see my husband was the next victim in the ping pong of germs that the family has been tossing back and forth, in this game with never ending overtime. Someone told me that other day that I needed to rest. Driving home this morning, I had to ask the Lord what rest looked like in the middle of crazy.
Where does rest fit in with a schedule of kids, school, tball, ministry, sickness, heartache and burdens. In the middle of crisis of a friends marriage falling apart, waiting to see if grandma is going to heaven or decided to hang out a little longer here on earth. School, Tball practices, disciplining and well plain old parenting.
I think that we have this false expectation of what rest looks like. You know like sitting on a beach, in the sun with a good book, alone. Or perhaps, renting a movie, crawling into bed and not coming out after hours of vegging. ummm yea, nobody got time for that in this house.
But you know the "rest" that Jesus is talking about here in this passage isn't of a physical rest. It is one of a mental rest. Look I can retreat to the beach and have an afternoon of relaxing but the truth is the moment I get in the car, the crazy comes back. Jesus gives us an invitation to come to Him, to find that mental rest that only He can give.
He is essentially saying, look homie, come here.. give me what is heavy in your heart, and leave it here. Allow me to deal with it, let me take if off your shoulders for a moment. Give your mind a rest from thinking so much about it.
Not convinced yet..
Think of this from a parents perspective for a moment if you will. Your child wakes up crying with fever and walks into your room. What do you do? Send them back to the room with instructions how to take care of themselves? No way.
You see their need, feel their pain, calling to you, you medicate them, comfort them and lay with them. In that moment, mom never felt so better. You are taking their burden of being sick and allowing them to find the rest in your presence. If you an earthly mother, can be so loving and gracious, imagine the heavenly father.
Are you in the middle of crazy? Carrying burdens, even some that are not even yours? Would you accept the invitation that the Lord is giving you. Come into His presence so that He can help give you that rest? Are you tired of being tired?
I am praying with you and for you.. May you have rest tonight!!!
Love you,
Moni
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