On January 1st of this year I wrote about focusing on goals that matter in 2024. In that post I mentioned I signed up for the 2024 San Francisco Marathon, as a response to a cancer diagnosis and surgery (November, 2023) I had, also finishing a full marathon that was interrupted in 1994. As I look back on the first eight months of this year, I realize there’s nothing quite like receiving a diagnosis that brings the competitor out in me, and I dare say many of us as well! Thankfully, today, I’m still free of cancer and my health is much better due to actively working out each week in my effort to reach the running goal I set for myself.

Earlier this week I had the opportunity to take part in the San Francisco Half-Marathon (The Bridge or 1st Half), and I wanted to share a few pictures from my trip and the event which I’m still bursting with pride about! I have so many fond and meaningful memories of the time I lived in the City, and just being there was inspiration enough for the run. Equally, I’ll end this post by encouraging you to “G.A.S. up” as you focus on or finish up your goals for the year. 

G.A.S. up stands for: 

Goals: What are the realistic, obtainable or envisioned goals that you have set for yourself? 

Activity: What activity/activities will you engage in that will move you close(r) to reaching your goals?

Skills: What skills do you envision obtaining as a result of engaging in your goal-focused and goal-oriented activity?

My goal was to get in shape for this 13.1 mile run. Each week I engaged in physical activity, which culminated in a long 12 mile walk each weekend. The skill(s) I learned from engaging in my weekly activity is “how to finish strong” when preparing for and running a distance like this, chiefly reflected in remaining injury free while also increasing my stamina, strength and endurance over the past 8 months. 

I wish you success as you focus on, set and reach meaningful goals for your self, reflected in healthy expressions of self-care and love for yourself and those you care about! Enjoy the slide show!