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My Half Marathon Experience & The Best Running Playlist

Holy hot cakes, I did it! I ran my first half marathon this weekend, and it was amazing. If you’ve been following along for some time, you know I’ve been talking about this event for a while now, and if you follow me on social media, you got to see a few pictures of what went on this weekend, but here’s my official recap. 
Friday, the hubs had the day off, so off I went to pick up my “packet” that morning. Your packet consists of your bib for the race, information about race day, and a participant tshirt. (You can see my packet pickup selfie on Instagram here.) The day was gorgeous which set the tone for a bright and cheery weekend. Later that evening, we went for a family walk. I figured I should probably stretch my legs a little bit before the big day on Sunday. Because like I said before, I barely trained for this race. As in I ran a long run once a week. I was lucky to do more than that, yet somehow it worked for me.

Saturday, my family came in to stay with us, and it was prep day. I usually carb load before running a marathon, but I didn’t really feel it was necessary running a half. Having run two full marathons before, I had a little bit of experience with the whole before-the-race prepping. I made sure I drank plenty of water 48 hours prior to running on Sunday, and that I had shot blocks and GU (running energy gel), body glide, the right socks, gel inserts for my tennis shoes (which I don’t recommend doing the day before), and my running gear for the day. The forecast was set to be in the 40s in the morning, warming up to the 60s by noon. I decided to wear a long sleeve running shirt, a headband to cover my ears, and throw-away gloves.

I could not sleep the night before the race, but I knew the 4:15 wakeup call would come way too soon, and it did. I woke up at 4:30. Thankfully, I made it downtown with plenty of time, because parking was a pain. I paid 25 dollars to park in a lot a few blocks from the convention center/marathon headquarters.

There’s something about running a race that just pumps your body full of adrenaline. Adrenaline is the only thing that kept me going that early. I had an energy bar for breakfast and more water. Caffeine is a no-go when you’re about to run. I didn’t check a bag either, because I kept my essentials in this FlipBelt. Most amazing running companion ever. It held my keys, GU, Chapstick, cash, credit card, ID, and cell phone.

Once 6:45 rolled around, everyone started heading to their designated corrals. I was in the last one. With almost 25,000 participants, things can get a little congested. There are four streets filled to the brim with people, then we stagger start the race.

I waited in line with the 12 minute mile crew. I love that there are pace leaders for the marathon. You could easily start out too fast or too slow, but if you run with a pace leader, it keeps you in check. I knew I wanted to stay around this pace in the beginning, and I was happy I did. My goal was to finish the half under 2 hours and 37 minutes.

Over a loud speaker, we could hear the race start and the elite runners began, then the first corrals. Once we started going, I was so excited. I don’t know why I was so giddy, but I just was. All by myself, smiling while I was running, I was soaking up the fact of how completely blessed I am to be able to run. I can’t describe to you the feeling you get when you see the city streets blocked off for you with people cheering you on. It’s the most amazing experience.

I had to stop a couple of times to 1) potty break and 2) fix my socks and shoes. That was all in the first three miles. After that, I picked a comfortable pace. Around mile 5, I threw my gloves off and began to get a little warm. One thing the city does is pick up all tossed clothing (people throw sweatshirts and gloves off like it’s a parade) and donates it to charity. Love that.

At mile 8, the half marathon and full marathon runners split. I was so happy to only be running the half and sent plenty of the good running vibes to the full marathon runners. Been there, done that.

Now, let me just let you all know that when you run the Houston Marathon/Half Marathon, you see some of the most amazing homes. Our city is so beautiful and has the most beautiful sites and people.

Then mile 9 happened. I had planned for my family to see me at this mile marker because it was the most I had ever run during training time. I knew I would need to see them to push me to run an extra 4 miles. Here’s who was waiting for me.

My hubs, mom, aunt, sister, and my Charlotte Grace were cheering on the crowd and waiting for this mama. They probably have no idea just how much I loved seeing them. Best motivators and cheerleaders ever. This is when I saw them.

And this is when I reunited with my baby for a brief minute. Apparently she was having too much fun clapping for all the runners. I’m so happy she had so much fun.

The last four miles wasn’t hard at all. I thought it would be, but music, adrenaline, and people cheering you on push you forward. Running is completely mental for me. The city skyline was also a big motivator because that meant the race was almost over.

Running downtown toward the finish line was awesome. The last two full marathons I’ve run, I was completely running on fumes and was crawling slower than a turtle by this point. Not this time. Half marathons are the way to go. I kind of want to run one every year now. I mustered up all the energy I had left and gave it my all. I also dedicated my last mile to my father-in-law who we lost a year and a half ago to colon cancer. He was also a runner, and I would have loved to have run a race with him. I felt him with me though, and I’m sure he helped push me a little faster, too.

Nothing beats the finish line. However, there was a ton of construction around the area, so I didn’t see my family until I crossed. But I was on cloud 9. I finished in 2 hours and 35 minutes, two minutes faster than I wanted! Completely happy about that.

After runners cross the finish line, we receive a finisher medal and are met with tons of cheers. Then it’s off to the convention center for pictures, another t-shirt, breakfast, water, and anything else you can think of that you’d need after running many, many miles.

I wasn’t concerned really with the breakfast, so I skipped that and went straight to the reunion area to find my family. Although, I did grab a few snacks, and it was so cute how elated Charlotte was to see me and the snacks. You would have thought I had been gone for days. She would not let me or the snacks go.

We then celebrated at my favorite brunch spot in Houston, Baba Yega, and I decided that carb loading was definitely necessary after the race. Charlotte loved it, too.

Best day in a long time. 
One of my biggest mental motivators, besides my family, is music. I wanted to fist pump and sing to the mountain tops with my playlist. I thought I’d share my exact half marathon running playlist with you because it is just that awesome. If you run a 12 minute mile (or less), this is exactly the right amount of songs to hit shuffle and be done with. No need to fiddle with buttons, because you’ll never want to skip a song (if you have the same taste in music as I do). I did, however, make this playlist to be in just the right order should you not want to hit the shuffle button. You’re welcome. 




If you have ever thought about running a race, I highly suggest you just go for it. If you’ve never been a runner before, start small with a 5K, then work your way up. I bet you’ll be hooked. For me, I’ve been a runner since middle school. I started running marathons in 2009. Why? I just wanted to prove to myself that I could do it. And you can, too. If you have no health problems and are looking for a new hobby, running could be it. I love the time I get to clear my thoughts, breathe fresh air, and listen to good music. It soothes my soul. 
Thanks for cheering me along this weekend! It was definitely another weekend for the books. :) 

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Comments

    • Thanks, sister! It’s so organized. Houston is the best. It’s always just a little warmer than it should be though for a run that long. You would love it, though! It’s definitely a fun experience.

  5. Love these pics! Glad you had a great race. Seeing my family and having a great playlist are definitely the top two things that give me the push I need to finish! Definitely going to check out your playlist….we have lots of similar songs so I now I’m going to love some I don’t recognize. Have a great week!

    • Thanks, Shelly! :) It was the best run by far. All around just a great day. And yep, I’m still listening to the playlist. It makes me want to go running…even after a race. Have a great rest of the week!

  6. CONGRATULATIONS MAMA!!!! I am so very proud of you! What a great recap! And your cheerleaders are the best!!! Isn’t that the best feeling ever, seeing and hearing them while you are running!!! These are the cutest photos of Charlotte! I just love love love the one of you seeing her at the end!!! <3

    • Thanks, friend! Yes, best feeling in the world. My family rocks. :) And that picture is definitely going to have to be printed out now. My hubs is a great photographer.

  7. I loved this post so much. I read it aloud in my living room to my sister. She’s 21 and her attention span is very short (don’t tell her I said it haha) so I was so really surprised when I looked up and she looked extremely focused on how this whole thing would play out lol Well we kept reading the whole thing and it was so FUN. You certainly have a gift for captivating writing and styling. You told us everything we wanted to know (what you wore, gel thingys, pacer guys, mile markers, etc.) so we didn’t have any unanswered questions. You also shared a bunch of fun little details (parking, skipping breakfast, Charlotte’s Uggz) (Ok you didn’t exactly “share” that lol but they are too adorbs not to mention!) Oh and the pictures of your city! At first we were like, where does she live?!? It looks so nice! I can totally relate to looking at the big houses, I probably would’ve tripped over my own shoes staring at houses…that’s like my thing lol. Well I’m sorry this is so long, but now we’re totally pumped to train for a marathon.

    • Gosh, this was the sweetest compliment, Holly! I’m so glad you like my story telling. :) It truly is a passion of mine. I hope you and your sister both get to run a race soon. It’s so much fun. Painful, but worth it. Like all good things in life. ;)

    • Thanks, Beth!! It was awesome. So much better than any other marathon I’ve run before. I think my sweet girl had a lot to do with it. ;)

  10. Love this!! Congratulations!! So proud of you! I have been looking for a new running belt with a little more room for all the things I want to carry, so I will be taking your advice and getting the one you have. Your pictures and you dedicating your last mile gave me chills and made me tear up a little. There is definitely something exciting about a half marathon and I always get teary-eyed seeing all the support, encouragement and people. I have run three half marathons and it happens to me every single time. I hope you aren’t too sore today and are enjoying the day with your biggest cheerleader!

    • Thanks so much, my dear! :) Yes! I get emotional, too! It’s the best feeling, isn’t it? That is awesome that you’ve run three. So fun! I’m a little sore, but not too bad. I went for a walk yesterday, so I think that helped. You’ll love the belt! It doesn’t budge so that is definitely a plus. I had been running with a fanny pack and the jostling of it moving up and down when I ran was annoying (well, it wasn’t technically a fanny pack, but it was pretty dang close). Hope you like it! Have a great week, girly!

  14. I don’t know why but race recaps sometimes make me super emotional… this one did that for me, I have tears. You are so awesome and such an inspiration! Way to go :) I hope one day, despite my obstacles that I can run a half marathon. I say I hope but I WILL run a half marathon one day, just maybe not anytime soon ;)

    So proud of you xo

    • Aww, we’re just emotional girls! Lol. It doesn’t take much for me. Thanks so much for being such an awesome friend and for rooting for me all the way from Canada! Love you, girlfriend!

  17. Love these pics! Glad you had a great race. Seeing my family and having a great playlist are definitely the top two things that give me the push I need to finish! Definitely going to check out your playlist….we have lots of similar songs so I now I'm going to love some I don't recognize. Have a great week!

  18. CONGRATULATIONS MAMA!!!! I am so very proud of you! What a great recap! And your cheerleaders are the best!!! Isn't that the best feeling ever, seeing and hearing them while you are running!!! These are the cutest photos of Charlotte! I just love love love the one of you seeing her at the end!!! <3

  19. I loved this post so much. I read it aloud in my living room to my sister. She's 21 and her attention span is very short (don't tell her I said it haha) so I was so really surprised when I looked up and she looked extremely focused on how this whole thing would play out lol Well we kept reading the whole thing and it was so FUN. You certainly have a gift for captivating writing and styling. You told us everything we wanted to know (what you wore, gel thingys, pacer guys, mile markers, etc.) so we didn't have any unanswered questions. You also shared a bunch of fun little details (parking, skipping breakfast, Charlotte's Uggz) (Ok you didn't exactly "share" that lol but they are too adorbs not to mention!) Oh and the pictures of your city! At first we were like, where does she live?!? It looks so nice! I can totally relate to looking at the big houses, I probably would've tripped over my own shoes staring at houses…that's like my thing lol. Well I'm sorry this is so long, but now we're totally pumped to train for a marathon.

  22. Thanks, sister! It's so organized. Houston is the best. It's always just a little warmer than it should be though for a run that long. You would love it, though! It's definitely a fun experience.

  23. Thanks, Shelly! :) It was the best run by far. All around just a great day. And yep, I'm still listening to the playlist. It makes me want to go running…even after a race. Have a great rest of the week!

  24. Love this!! Congratulations!! So proud of you! I have been looking for a new running belt with a little more room for all the things I want to carry, so I will be taking your advice and getting the one you have. Your pictures and you dedicating your last mile gave me chills and made me tear up a little. There is definitely something exciting about a half marathon and I always get teary-eyed seeing all the support, encouragement and people. I have run three half marathons and it happens to me every single time. I hope you aren't too sore today and are enjoying the day with your biggest cheerleader!

  25. Thanks, friend! Yes, best feeling in the world. My family rocks. :) And that picture is definitely going to have to be printed out now. My hubs is a great photographer.

  26. Gosh, this was the sweetest compliment, Holly! I'm so glad you like my story telling. :) It truly is a passion of mine. I hope you and your sister both get to run a race soon. It's so much fun. Painful, but worth it. Like all good things in life. ;)

  27. Thanks, Beth!! It was awesome. So much better than any other marathon I've run before. I think my sweet girl had a lot to do with it. ;)

  28. Thanks so much, my dear! :) Yes! I get emotional, too! It's the best feeling, isn't it? That is awesome that you've run three. So fun! I'm a little sore, but not too bad. I went for a walk yesterday, so I think that helped. You'll love the belt! It doesn't budge so that is definitely a plus. I had been running with a fanny pack and the jostling of it moving up and down when I ran was annoying (well, it wasn't technically a fanny pack, but it was pretty dang close). Hope you like it! Have a great week, girly!

  29. I don't know why but race recaps sometimes make me super emotional… this one did that for me, I have tears. You are so awesome and such an inspiration! Way to go :) I hope one day, despite my obstacles that I can run a half marathon. I say I hope but I WILL run a half marathon one day, just maybe not anytime soon ;)

    So proud of you xo

  30. I LOVED these pictures! Not going to lie, I teared up through the whole post! Especially with your husband and daughter holding the sign “Go Mama”. And can I just say how awesome you look after running 13.1 miles??? I ran a marathon in 2010 and haven’t done a race since even though I’ve kept running off and on. I think I’m going to sign up for a half this spring :) Thanks for sharing your experience it was so fun to read and look through the pictures!

      • Thanks so much! That is so sweet to hear. :) Sorry for the late response! I just now saw your comment. Eek! The half is so much better than a full in my opinion. My body just cooperated way better. This playlist should get you motivated, too. I know I definitely want to keep running because of it. Now I just use it while I’m cleaning the house. ;) Hope you have a great week, Sarah!

  31. Aww, we're just emotional girls! Lol. It doesn't take much for me. Thanks so much for being such an awesome friend and for rooting for me all the way from Canada! Love you, girlfriend!

  32. I LOVED these pictures! Not going to lie, I teared up through the whole post! Especially with your husband and daughter holding the sign "Go Mama". And can I just say how awesome you look after running 13.1 miles??? I ran a marathon in 2010 and haven't done a race since even though I've kept running off and on. I think I'm going to sign up for a half this spring :) Thanks for sharing your experience it was so fun to read and look through the pictures!

  34. Congratulations! I love these pictures are stunning! My husband is a distance runner as well (he’s done 3 halfs and 2 full marathons), and our family is always there as spectators to support him. Your post gave me a bit of a glimpse of the runner’s perspective, and it’s very interesting, I never thought about all the things that you could see admire (like the beautiful homes for you!) while your run those miles! Congratuations again! (popping in from Blogger’s digest linky)

    • Thank you, Maria! My husband did an amazing job with the photos. :) The experience really is one of a kind. I was happy to share my experience. Glad you “see” the runners side. I’m sure your husband loves having y’all support him during races!

      Have a great weekend!

  35. Congratulations! I love these pictures are stunning! My husband is a distance runner as well (he's done 3 halfs and 2 full marathons), and our family is always there as spectators to support him. Your post gave me a bit of a glimpse of the runner's perspective, and it's very interesting, I never thought about all the things that you could see admire (like the beautiful homes for you!) while your run those miles! Congratuations again! (popping in from Blogger's digest linky)

  36. Ahh! Reading about races makes me so giddy! Congrats! I love the half marathon! Perfect distance, challenging and rewarding but in half the time and training a full marathon takes. It looks like you have an amazing support team too! That really makes all the difference. I had never had anyone come to halfs with me but the past november I ran my first marathon and my boyfriend, parents and grandparents showed up. Needless to say I was running with tear streaming down my face when I saw that. It really does give you a boost to finish doesnt it? Anyway, congrats again and may the miles be in your favor(: God bless!
    Ann-Marie

    • Thanks so much, Ann-Marie! The two races are completely different that is for sure. I didn’t make that big of a deal of it with my family, so my cheering section was a lot smaller than when I ran the full both times. But having my daughter there this go-round was the icing on the cake. She really is my reason for everything these days, and she definitely gave me my final push. :) Happy running and happy weekend!

  37. Congratulations Kristy! The finish line is definitely the best part of a half, haha! Love all the photos you got. And you’ve done 2 marathons before?! Good on ya girl. 13.1 miles is plenty for me. :)

    • Thanks so much, Tiffany! Yes, the finish line was amazing! Lol. Yes, I’m a crazy running lady. Although I highly doubt I’ll ever run a full again after knowing how easy a half is. Sheesh! It was fun. :) Hope you have a great weekend, girlfriend!

  38. Congratulations Kristy! You did it!!

    I love the recap and the pictures… you’re just beaming, I was teary just looking at them.

    So awesome!

    Thanks for sharing and for linking up to the #SHINEbloghop.

    Wishing you a lovely day.
    xoxo

    • Thanks, Jennifer! I was beaming, wasn’t I? I really soaked in each and every moment. I had every reason to smile. :) Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

  39. Congratulations Kristy! You did it!!

    I love the recap and the pictures… you're just beaming, I was teary just looking at them.

    So awesome!

    Thanks for sharing and for linking up to the #SHINEbloghop.

    Wishing you a lovely day.
    xoxo

  40. Thank you, Maria! My husband did an amazing job with the photos. :) The experience really is one of a kind. I was happy to share my experience. Glad you "see" the runners side. I'm sure your husband loves having y'all support him during races!

    Have a great weekend!

  41. Thanks so much, Ann-Marie! The two races are completely different that is for sure. I didn't make that big of a deal of it with my family, so my cheering section was a lot smaller than when I ran the full both times. But having my daughter there this go-round was the icing on the cake. She really is my reason for everything these days, and she definitely gave me my final push. :) Happy running and happy weekend!

  42. Thanks so much, Tiffany! Yes, the finish line was amazing! Lol. Yes, I'm a crazy running lady. Although I highly doubt I'll ever run a full again after knowing how easy a half is. Sheesh! It was fun. :) Hope you have a great weekend, girlfriend!

  43. Thanks, Jennifer! I was beaming, wasn't I? I really soaked in each and every moment. I had every reason to smile. :) Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

  44. Congratulations! I bet you did amazing. What great pics! LOVE them! I did my first one two years ago- it literally changed my life. I used to be terrified of running, I would get panic attacks when I had to run a mile. It gave me confidence that I can overcome fears! Crossing the finish line is like nothing else. I almost cried like, 10 times throughout! Seeing your family must have been the best moment ever! I am featuring this post this week at the Let’s Be Friends Blog Hop! :)

    • Well thank you so much, Tiffany! I’m so excited to be featured! What an honor. :) Running is the greatest mind strengthener. You really can do anything when you put your mind to it, and I’ve seen it work time and time again with running. Hope you have a great week!

  45. Congratulations! I bet you did amazing. What great pics! LOVE them! I did my first one two years ago- it literally changed my life. I used to be terrified of running, I would get panic attacks when I had to run a mile. It gave me confidence that I can overcome fears! Crossing the finish line is like nothing else. I almost cried like, 10 times throughout! Seeing your family must have been the best moment ever! I am featuring this post this week at the Let's Be Friends Blog Hop! :)

  46. Awesome Job!! I haven’t run a half but I just did my second full marathon in October. This last one was so much better than the first. After the first I swore I would never put myself through that again, this time I said I would definitely do another I might turn it into a in between baby goal. :-)
    Your playlist looks like fun!

    • Thanks so much, Rebekah! The fulls are so brutal. I ran two, and my second one was easier on my body, but I ran about 10 minutes slower than my first. That’s why I figured the half would have to be better, and I was right. :) Out of all my running playlists, I think this one is my favorite. Hope you have a wonderful week!

  47. Congrats on your race!! I’m looking forward to training for one this year!! Thanks for linking up at Tuesday Talk! -Mandy from Almond Place

  48. Awesome Job!! I haven't run a half but I just did my second full marathon in October. This last one was so much better than the first. After the first I swore I would never put myself through that again, this time I said I would definitely do another I might turn it into a in between baby goal. :-)
    Your playlist looks like fun!

  49. Congrats on your race!! I'm looking forward to training for one this year!! Thanks for linking up at Tuesday Talk! -Mandy from Almond Place

  50. Well thank you so much, Tiffany! I'm so excited to be featured! What an honor. :) Running is the greatest mind strengthener. You really can do anything when you put your mind to it, and I've seen it work time and time again with running. Hope you have a great week!

  51. Thanks so much, Rebekah! The fulls are so brutal. I ran two, and my second one was easier on my body, but I ran about 10 minutes slower than my first. That's why I figured the half would have to be better, and I was right. :) Out of all my running playlists, I think this one is my favorite. Hope you have a wonderful week!

  53. Thanks so much! That is so sweet to hear. :) Sorry for the late response! I just now saw your comment. Eek! The half is so much better than a full in my opinion. My body just cooperated way better. This playlist should get you motivated, too. I know I definitely want to keep running because of it. Now I just use it while I'm cleaning the house. ;) Hope you have a great week, Sarah!

    • Thanks so much, April! You live in Houston, too?! Love it! That’s so awesome that you recognized the bib on another blog. ;) I love this small town city. Lol. Hope you had a great weekend!

  60. congrats to you! I saw your running picture over at TheDwellingTree and recognized that bib:) My husband runs this marathon every year and we're also in Houston! Small world!

  62. Thanks so much, April! You live in Houston, too?! Love it! That's so awesome that you recognized the bib on another blog. ;) I love this small town city. Lol. Hope you had a great weekend!

  63. Fantastic, as I was reading I forgot how I even happened onto this post, then I realised it was via Pinterest and the running music. What a great write up, your smile could light up a room. I visited my friend in Houston back in 2013, maybe I need to make a return visit to the US to run this half marathon! Yay.

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