SUCCESS! And wanted to see my Graduate Badge in print!!

[Fran6500]

I have just returned from holiday yesterday and whilst I was away, completed week 9 and requested my Badge - what an achievement! I am so full of pride and happiness I might explode!!!

The holiday was on a cruise ship so used treadmill in huge, empty gym - except when the superfit, size 8 dancers decided to come in en masse for their exercise whilst I was just starting run 2. I didnt let this overwhelm me and continued my programme with Laura in my ear telling me I was a runner now - so I am nowhere near a size 8 but was a God on the treadmill IMO,

Week 9 run 1 was done whilst entering the port for Dubrovnik; run 2 was in Greece when we were docked in Mykonos and run 3 was in the port of Naples!! All beautiful scenes to remember when out running back home but as I live in Portugal, am blessed with fair weather and beautiful surroundings always.

My only "niggle" is my slow pace but I was faster on two runs on holiday - the treadmill was in imperial measurements (mile) not metric (kms) so I inadvertently went faster trying to match what I do at home and not understanding why it was so hard and had to slow down - but then when I changed to metric I thought, if I could run faster without knowing, I could run that bit faster anyway - so I am! Another plus!

I also "only" put 2 kgs on in weight whilst away which on an all you can eat cruise was a result. I am sure it was the exercise that kept the balance for me and will be looking to lose that extra weight this week and continue with the plan which has brought so many benefits to my life.

Also, the encouragement and support on this forum is such a huge part of my success I have to thank you all. I could always find someone at the same stage and in the same situation as me and this was so helpful.

SO, THANK YOU ALL!!!

F

[iloverunning Graduate]

Wonderful! Congratulations and how good to complete the course and graduate in those beautiful places - very memorable! I graduated on holiday in France which made it extra special too

[Fran6500 Graduate in reply to iloverunning]

Many thanks for your congrats. Yes, good memories all round!

[Mummysaurus Graduate]

Congratulations, what fantastic memories you will always have of how successful you are. You are also so lucky to live in a beautiful warm climate, I hope you have much joy in your future runs

[Fran6500 Graduate in reply to Mummysaurus]

Many thanks. Yes, still on a high and so proud of myself. Have done one 30 min run since graduation and have now downloaded c25+ this morning to try and improve times and continue the good work!

[Beek Graduate]

What a lovely way to graduate, one port at a time! Lovely blog and you did very well not to be phased by the size 8 dancers! Look on your shiny grey badge with pride, and savour those wonderful memories!

Happy running!

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Wow, a truly international graduate!! Well done, it really is a moment to savour in all our running lives. Congratulations and enjoy your running.

[Bethany94 Graduate]

That's amazing - such a great story! And I totally understand the 'only 2kgs' thing - I always put on so much weight when I'm on holiday and out of a routine... Well done and happy running

[Fran6500 Graduate]

Thanks to you all for your comments. Happy running to you too. (dont know how to do smiley face, sorry!)

[waletta Graduate]

Congratulations. Really happy post. I'll do your smiley faces for you I'm sure that's not enough to express how you feel.

[Fran6500 Graduate]

Hey, thanks for the smiles!