tips for future racers!

hi friends! i have been off the race & home in ohio for almost 3 months now. it has been a season of transition full of joy, hardships & just so much gratitude. thanking Jesus for what he’s done, doing & going to do next in my life.  

anyways, i wanted to hop on here & give future racers some tips as you’re stepping into this new, sweet season with the Lord. 

– pack clothes that you normally wear at home and are comfortable in. just do it! you are going to be away for 9 months & gonna want things you always wear. bring your fav pair of jeans (they might get a few stains but hey stains are okay) 

– come into the race with no expectations. come with open arms allowing God to do whatever He wants on your race. my race was so much different than i ever expected in the best way.

– bring a normal size pillow unless you just don’t ever sleep with a pillow. my travel size pillow was great for training camp & then i wish i had brought my normal size pillow on the field.

– you should bring a watch (highly recommend a shark watch!) you won’t always have your phone on you & you might wanna know the time for your next event in the day.

– you don’t have to pack enough toiletries for all 9 months. you will most likely be able to get the things you need overseas (toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant etc) girls: bring a diva cup instead of 100 tampons (even if you don’t know how to use it you can ask a friend to teach you. you got it sis!)

– don’t compare your spiritual growth to those around you. you are journeying with the Father and He is doing something different in your heart than anyone else around you. Jesus has already equipped you for this. you will only get out of it as much as you choose in. take ownership of your race! choose into the hard & uncomfortable things.  

– pack cards & envelopes to write encouraging words/listening prayer for your squadmates! 

– bring a tarp or footprint to go under your tent! it will rain & you don’t want your tent to mold or flood kk??

– get to know each person on your team one on one. some people are going to be harder to choose into than others but be intentional! do something you both enjoy: picnics, walks, watercoloring, eno hangs. soak up the sweet time in gainesville (gainesville with my squad was such a refreshing season!)

– choose into your alumni team leader! i learned so much from mine (emalani  is the most tender-hearted, gentle human) they want to know what God is doing in your heart & they are there to walk with you & listen to your story.

okay, i think that is all for now. reach out to me if you wanna talk or have questions! i am here for you.

all my love,

lydia