Hi, I’m
Cecilia.
Midwest girl, dog mom, bookworm, and runner — though I’ll be honest, that last one took some convincing. This is where I share what I’ve learned on the road, one mile at a time.
I’m not a coach or a trainer. I’m just someone who started running a few years ago and never really stopped… despite a few injuries that tried their best to make me.
It started with a dog and a 5K.
My husband’s family are runners, like, actually serious runners. For years I watched from the sidelines as their dedicated photographer, nodding along at dinner conversations about race times and long run routes and foam rolling. Eventually I caved. I signed up for a 5K with my dog, told myself it was just a one-time thing, and somehow never stopped.
What I didn’t expect was how much I would actually love it. Not every run of course, some runs are hard and frustrating and you just want to be done. But the feeling of getting stronger, going farther, surprising yourself? That part got me hooked pretty quickly. I love having something to work towards.
The journey so far 🏅
Signed up to run with my dog. Finished it. Immediately started thinking about what was next.
Runner’s knee landed me in physical therapy for months. Shin splints made me question everything. I learned more about recovery than I ever expected to.
Crossed that finish line and cried a little. After everything it took to get there, it meant everything.
I wanted a place to document the real stuff. The setbacks, the lessons, and the things that actually helped. This blog is that place.
Two more half marathons on the calendar, and a full marathon in November. The training is humbling and I am here for it.
Progress isn’t always linear. But it’s always possible.
I started The Distance Journal because I kept finding advice that felt written for people who already had it figured out. I wanted something more honest, real talk about what it looks like to keep showing up after setbacks, what actually works for recovery, and what it feels like to be a regular person working full time and building something they’re proud of.
Everything I share here is stuff I’ve personally tried, tested, or lived through. Some of it worked great. Some of it didn’t. I’ll tell you about both.
A few more things about me 🌸
Big Reader
Nothing better than a good book after a long run. My recovery routine and my reading habit go hand in hand.
Scout’s Mom
German Shepherd, running partner, chaos agent. She takes her role as blog mascot very seriously.
Married into a Running Family
Without their support I would not be where I am in my running journey.
Proud Midwesterner
Midwest winters are character-building. Running through them is either brave or unhinged. Possibly both.
Want to reach out?
For brand inquiries, collaborations, or general questions, feel free to shoot me an email. I do my best to respond when I can!
✉️ thedistancejournalblog@gmail.comCome run with me. 🏃♀️
Whether you’re just lacing up for the first time or working through an injury, you’ll find something here for you. No expertise required! Just a willingness to keep going.
