Stone Mountain Back to Back!! 35 Miles

The last weekend in September, I hosted this year's Stone Mountain Back to Back.  A back to back is two long distance walks usually 18-20 miles the first day followed by 12-15 miles the second day.  This walk is designed to let you experience two day of the actual 3 day event.  Since walking around Stone Mountain is a 5 mile commitment, we walked 4 laps on day one (20 miles) and 3 laps on day two (15 miles).  If you remember, I injured my knee during the Back to Back last year.  I am happy to report that finished all 35 miles with only a little soreness.  I am so proud of myself and all those who attended the training walk.  I got to see some familiar faces, some new friends, and reconnect with an old friend.  How honored am I to have my cousin, Natalie and long time best friend walking with me this year!!  Her and her husband and 1 year old son came up for the weekend.  It was great to spend time with her and her family.


We started out early on Saturday morning at 7:00 am.  Again, Stone Mountain is a beautiful place to walk.  Each time I go, I see something new and beautiful.  It's amazing to see God's glorious creation in the landscape there.  We saw many chipmunks, squirrels, and even stood close enough to touch a deer.  3 of them to be exact.  A mom and her baby crossed the road behind us.  Walking along the path, you see many different people.  Some walking, some running, some riding every kind of bike you can imagine.  I was particularly impressed with a man running barefoot and another riding his really tall circus style unicycle.  Wow!  There's no way I could do that.  You also have to remember this path is not flat, in fact it is full of hills and inclines.  Perfect training for the Atlanta 3-Day Event.  Us walking is not only good for preparing and training, but we also get to talk to many people along the way and promote Breast Cancer Awareness.  People were already cheering us on as we passed by.  It got me really excited to be participating again.


 I am so proud of each walker that came out that weekend.  Each one did a fabulous job and completed all 35 miles.  I was proud of myself too.  To be honest, last year was very difficult for me.  This year, I feel that I am in better shape and walked with ease.  I am happy to also say that I walked away with no blisters this year.  Last year, I kept blisters off and on the entire time.  Guess, my Road Runner Sports shoes and insoles were totally worth the money!!

I want to say thank you to all the women and men that attend my training walks this year.  I hope that I was able, in some small way to help you prepare for this incredible event!  I was blessed by each of your stories!  It's an honor to walk with and for you!  I am so thankful for the opportunities that I have had to help spread awareness through walking, leading and training others this year!

   

Who completed the Stone Mountain Back to Back 35 Miles?  These two girls did!!