I’ve been debating my half marathon goals for awhile now.. And with the only big race I’m running this Fall coming up on Saturday, I need a new goal to hit.

So after many weeks (nearly month) debating and throwing around ideas. Tossing & turning in bed last night I finally made a decision.

I had previously stated that I wanted my first half marathon to be the Disney Princess half in February, but after much deliberation (and the fact that my step mom will be running it with me & zack would rather go to Austin than Disney world I have decided on and registered for the 3M half marathon on January 29, 2012 in Austin, TX!

I decided on this one for many reasons. As many of you know my father lives in Dallas, his entire family lives in San Antonio.. And what happens to be in the middle of these two fine cities? Well one of my favorite cities in America, AUSTIN Texas baby! On top of the fact that I’ll have family running with me and cheering on the sidelines, I know this city like the back of my hand. I lived in Texas for a few years after high school, and I absolutely fell head over heals for Austin. One of the music capitals of America, not to mention home of my Long Horns! (the eyes of Texas are upon you…)

This “downhill” race is not nearly as downhill as people claim. It’s got several climbs in the first and last 4 miles of the race, and a slow decline, mostly flat. However race Recaps tell me that it’s more difficult than the half marathons website states. But, compared to a half in say… San Fran… Easy peasy (in theory)

I’m so stoked!!! I’m more excited for this than Baltimore running festival and that’s THIS Saturday. Sorry but a 5k barely cuts it anymore. Time to up the challenge!!!

After this weekends race I’m beginning a 16 week training program, as well as hitting up my local running store (Charm City Run) Fall Half Marathon training clinic! I also signed up for the Hot Chocolate 15k DC in December as a nice stepping stone during my training!

Truth be told I have a goal (I shouldnt. I have barely begun to prepare for this race) but — I sort of do. I’m sure it’ll definitely change in the weeks/months to come so I’m not announcing it. To be honest, I just want to finish. I just want that medal around my neck and my feet to pound the ground for 13.1 miles throughout a city I have grown to love, respect, and miss. In a state as large as my dreams

Who knows maybe I’ll make Dallas my first full marathon..

woah charlotte! One step at a time