My Second ½ Marathon
Shortly after my son’s announcement of his engagement, I set myself three goals to be achieved close to the wedding date. I needed to focus, meditate, become familiar and find my place in this new stage in life.
1. To lose weight
2. To run a half-marathon
3. To prepare a series of drawings as wedding gift for the young couple
“Curiosity -(From the 7 blessings Series) – Watercolor and ink on paper, A-5 @Barbara Adler Art 2022,
Private collection
Two out of the three goals were achieved, one was a total flop.
I couldn’t lose weight.
A family Member (My Daughter) is studying to be a pastry chef. The goal to lose weight became a serious obstacle, as delicious food was constantly presented (I am not complaining!). I was hoping that the marathon training would burn off some of those delicious calories, but it didn’t work that way, unfortunately.
The wedding series on the other hand, “The 7 Blessings”, came out beautiful. A series of seven watercolor and ink on heavy cotton watercolor textured A-5 paper. Very delicate and gentle, with my typical design of lines and forms, without the strong coloring that I usually do. I was well within my deadline so I even was able to frame it properly for the wedding.
“Responsibility” (From the 7 blessings Series) – Watercolor and ink on paper, A-5 @Barbara Adler Art 2022, Private collection
The last time I ran a half-marathon (21.1 kilometers, 13.1 miles) was over ten years ago. I do run a slow 10-12k once a week and interval train once to twice a week. All said and done under condition of no illness or injury that can be a setback almost to start.
So why did I need to set these goals and train for a half-marathon?
To lose weight is totally understandable; we all want to look great at that very special moment. It wasn’t bad that I didn’t achieve my ideal. Actually, it was FINE. It allowed for the young couple to appear even more radiant than they were. They are the stars of this very special moment. No need to upstage and shadow them in any way.
Running a half-marathon, was to comfort and prove that I am not old yet. To overcome fear. Just to be able to do it. Funny, I ran this slower than my previous, but at much more ease and confidence. I finished tired and momentarily sore but felt like I could get up the following and do it all over. That was a major difference, as the previous half left me for not wanting to run again ever. (of course, that didn’t happen. I just chose to run shorter distances). It also was a reminder to set goals and achieve them. Never give up. Always find a way. Same in art. there is always a way to express a concept or an idea. Often the first is not the best. Sometimes it is.
To prepare a wedding series was my way of letting go and blessing them on their new joint path in life. Art is a reflection of our thoughts and feelings.
Contact me if you would like to personalize a special occasion. Nothing like a meaningful, personal painting or drawing as a gift.
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