Filled with Joy

It has been quite awhile since I last blogged! I am not going to lie, 5 months of injury brought a lot of emotions. The disappointment turned into tears and then frustration. I couldn't help but feel really sad and disappointed because I kept on running through my injury. I had to completely stop when I came to the point of having an allergic reaction on top of my IT Band injury which prevented me to run. When my allergic reaction healed, the pain of my IT Band injury then started decreasing. A week later, I ran a bit better and spent the day smiling because I knew God was watching over me. Who knew that an allergic reaction would miraculously heal me by taking some time off and surrounding myself with positive people who wanted the best for me. The injury was a reminder to stay positive and know that no matter what set backs happen, to never give up. I am now filled with joy that I am able to run injury free and use my ability to run for awareness and purpose. Distance running is full of ups and downs. Through the downs, however, there is a fire inside each and every single person. That fire is the kind of fire that can not be put out. 

This summer has been filled with a lot of growth, tears, laughter, change, and doing things that I believed was right. I use to have a hard time with change but now I look forward to a new season. ;)

​This past week, my boyfriend Andres, sister Regina, friend Eli, and I, went to Mammoth for a much needed vacation. The Mammoth adventure included camping outdoors, almost getting attacked by a bear, ice baths in June Lake, hiking, running, eating lots, and especially eating much needed chocolate. The Mammoth trip consisted of many beautiful trail runs and hilly courses that tested my limits. The Mammoth trip allowed me to rest and allowed me to refocus on new goals. I am looking forward to working hard!

The positive energy that we all shared on this trip, filled me with joy. Here are some photos of our adventure..... Hope you all ENJOY! =) 

​

---

Smiles, Positivity, and Joy

First time camper and I cannot believe how much fun and adventure it is to camp. The biggest surprise was seeing a huge bear. I was afraid to use the restroom at night since the bear would come to our campsite every night at around 2am. Overhearing the bear smelling the campsite every night was definitely scary. lol haha

Making smores every night would have to be the best part of camping. :)

We made our own kind of smores, dark chocolate and KitKat =)

My absolute favorite while we camp! =)

Literally couldn't breathe while running up and down this hill. Thank goodness it is over. lol

Hiking at Inyo Crators.

Hot Creek Geologic Site. The water was super warm. There were warning signs everywhere to keep out and not to touch the water especially that steam water that you see on the right side of my head. My boyfriend and Eli put an egg in the steam water and it actually boiled in the water and rose above the water. haha How crazy is that? :)

Inyo Crator. :)

So beautiful. The best part running up the hill, 8,900 elevation.

Sissy Regina on left and me on right.

Yay, us capturing this incredible moment.

Thankful that we are able to do something every year together. This has been on our bucklet. CHECK! :)