What a Turkey Trot Taught Me About Strength, Statement, and Self-Care

If you had told me a few years ago that I would willingly run a Turkey Trot, I probably would have laughed and handed you a slice of pie instead. But life has a funny way of nudging us toward things we didn’t know we needed.

This past season, I laced up my shoes and did just that — and let me tell you, it wasn’t just about the miles. It was about the journey, the healing, and the lessons I learned along the way.

Taking Care of the Body That Carries Me

Before I even thought about race day, I knew one thing for sure: if I was going to do this, I needed to take care of the body that was going to carry me every step of the way.

Listen, I may be a woman on a mission, but I am also a frugal mom who knows that taking care of what you have matters. Running isn’t just about determination — it’s about support. And for me, that started from the ground up.

That’s why I made sure my trusted nikes had some sport insoles to cushion every step. Because when your feet feel good, everything feels a little more possible. Whether you’re running a race or just running through everyday life, investing in your comfort and well-being is never a waste. It’s an act of self-respect.

Training with Purpose

I didn’t do this alone. I had the incredible support of my coaches with All In by Teddi Mellencamp, who believed in me even on the days I didn’t believe in myself. They reminded me that showing up — even when it’s hard — is half the battle.

There were early mornings when the air was crisp and my motivation was low. There were days when my legs felt heavy and my mind tried to talk me out of continuing. But every time I wanted to quit, I remembered why I started: to prove to myself that I could do hard things.

There is something incredibly empowering about realizing your body is capable of more than you ever imagined.

Running with a Message

When race day came, I knew I didn’t want to just run — I wanted to make a statement.

So I put on my hat that boldly declared: “Make Racism Wrong Again.” Because silence has never been my style, and if I’m going to move my feet, I want them moving for something that matters.

I also wore my “big orange cat energy” T-shirt in honor of our dear sweet Travieso, our beloved orange cat we had to put to sleep. Anyone who has loved a pet knows they are never “just animals” — they are family. Wearing that shirt felt like carrying a piece of him with me every step of the way. His sass, his sweetness, and his larger-than-life personality fueled me through every mile.

It was emotional. It was healing. It was exactly what my heart needed.

Lessons from the Road

Running that Turkey Trot taught me so much more than endurance. It taught me:

• You’re never too old to start something new.
• Taking care of your body is an act of gratitude.
• Your voice and your presence matter.
• Grief and healing can exist in the same mile.
• And sometimes making a statement simply means showing up as your full, authentic self.

I crossed that finish line with tired legs, a full heart, and a renewed sense of purpose. I didn’t just run a race — I honored a beloved pet, stood firm in my values, cared for my body, and proved to myself that I am stronger than I think.

And that, my friends, is worth every single step.

Similar Posts:

None Found