Category: Running
Running...
My first official entry.
I guess this means I'm serious about it.
I'm a little addicted.
I chose to go running the other night when D took all three children to Asher's baseball practice.
Free time - and I chose to go for a run!
It's the proverbial "new leaf" (I hope)...
a good new habit to form...
tonight I did 2.5 - my first mile was too fast at 7 minutes.
I even told D I should get a heart rate monitor.
Hmmm...
this is definitely a new chapter for me.
I ran some track in jr/high school.
Hmmm...
Pickin' Cotton
This entry is under the heading of "Running" because I was supposed to go for a 3-miler while Eden was snoozing, but instead got on the computer to check my email...and then had to order some pictures through Shutterfly...and then decided to post on my blog...
Anyway -
Papa planted a row of cotton this Spring so the grandkids could "experience" picking cotton. Oma picked a lot of cotton in her youth. She would earn two dollars for 100 pounds. (Which she said took a day...whew!) It was a lot of fun feeling the cotton and we picked two big baskets. I'm thinking of using what we picked for organic cotton balls!
I'm going to run this evening - Toodles!
Morning Run
Mandie and I completed a four-miler this morning. Run/walk - 48 minutes. Our goal for the half-marathon is a 10-minute mile average. I felt great and could have done 7 miles. Maybe next weekend. I plan on a 5k run tomorrow afternoon - solo and all running.
Love the endorphins and knowing I'm doing something good for my body!
Love you, babe!
My wonderful husband walked through the door this afternoon when I was about to snap. No naps for anyone this afternoon - Eden was in her bed singing, "There was a little boy named David" (that line of the song) over and over again, Lillian never falls asleep for a nap unless I lay down with her, and Asher is seven (seven year olds rarely nap).
Anyway, I got a run in...two and a half...felt good. Slow and steady, but I never stopped. I'm excited about increasing my mileage. It's so weird to me to talk about running this way! I like it!
3 miles and counting...
My athletic husband accompanied is unathletic wife last night on a run. He would sprint back to the house every 10 minutes to check on the kids (November is speed training for him). Our route runs right around the house - it's boring, but it's a requirement with three children sleeping in the house!
I completed my three miles with ease. I have a five-miler planned for Saturday. Slowly inching up to a half marathon. Who knew running could be so much fun? Now, I have to start being consistent with ab and arm work... :)
2 few miles...
I haven't been logging in the running miles I should be to prepare for the half marathon. March is quickly approaching...I enjoyed two runs in Virginia. One with Dyron and Grandy. 3-miler. Pootered out at the end... And then the First Annual Hamlin Stress Relief 5K...ended up walking back with Asher. Probably only completed two miles.
Had a good, fast run here on Sunday afternoon. My goal is a few 5-milers and possibly an 8-miler this month. I'm trying...sick kids, cold weather, and the dark get in the way of winter training. I have no excuses!
2+ miles!
My wonderful husband walked through the door at 4:45 and I ran out the door at 4:50 today! Got in a great run - shortcutted (is that a word?) a little bit on my 5K route. Used my new Ipod Shuffle (that the above mentioned wonderful husband purchased me for Xmas) to keep up the pace! It was especially refreshing because of the cool, crisp air...good to keep me healthy after spending all day in the "sick house" with my girls.
BRING IT ON! (I guess this is my slogan for 2007...hope I don't regret it.)
2 oil changes + 2 miles
How do you get two cars oil changed and get two adults "in training" some miles all in the same three hours?
You take the car in for an oil change, run back, take the second car in for an oil change, drive the first car back, let your wife run and pick up the second car...understand? I'm sure the people at Pro-Lube thought we were insane...I ran right through the middle of Maumelle past the Center, a gas station, a beauty salon, some apartments, the Chinese restuarant, and Sonic. It was weird to be the only person on foot...
BUT IT FELT GREAT!
I need a 5-miler on Sunday afternoon. Dyron will have to map me a route! (He loves it.)
5 miles!
Well...really 4+!
I walked the "big hill" on my route -
The "big hill" is awesome on the way out...really improves my time. But on the way back...its lone advantage is I can turn around and walk backwards and have a breathtaking view of Pinnacle Mountain!
D goes out of town for two nights tomorrow - so my training will suffer.
I haven't been wearing a watch during my runs for the past month. I've found not looking at the time and just listening to my body gets me farther down the road. But, I am curious to see if my time is improving...it feels easier...so it should be getting better. I'll wear a watch on my next short run.
I also need new running shoes.
Back 2 running...
YIPPEE!
I started with the Maumelle Women's Running Group on Monday evening. It was fantastic! 2+ miles - felt great!
They had everyone pick a group.
Walkers, Beginners (run 1 minute), Intermediate (run 4 minutes), and Advanced (consistently run 3-5 miles)...
I picked Intermediate. Dyron found humor in my choice. He said, "you illustrated the difference between men and women in your choice. Women underestimate themselves and men overestimate themselves."
Can't wait to run 3 on Thursday night!
Women CAN run!
Had a great run last night - 3 miles. Candy was my "partner" again - we've decided we're above Intermediate but not quite Advanced! We're planning a Saturday run (if Dyron is back in town - he's in Canada). I told her I have a great 5K trail run. We chat the entire time - it makes our run seem so easy and go by fast!
I'm so thrilled to be back to it!
Love to run!
I'm so into it! I'm loving my "Women Can Run" group. Candy and I are turning it up a notch every run. She'll be gone next Thursday evening so I'm going for an improved time on my 5K. I always feel so good after exercise! It really amazes me some people "hate" exercise. I truly believe everyone can find some form of exercise they will enjoy.
Running around...
Not on my husband...running around the lake.
My usual partner, Candy, is somewhere on a beach in Mexico. Probably enjoying a margarita or some such beverage and not even thinking about running. I, on the other hand, was running my heart out tonight. I like to focus on a person ahead of me...and speed up...and run by like a gazelle!
I was very fast tonight. I had the Ipod pumping some good tunes in my ears. I was motivated. It wasn't too hot. Good feelings...
Then, a quick trip to Kroger where I treated myself with dark chocolate and a six-pack of Sam Adams (on sale!).
I'm supposed to be putting the girls to bed...
but instead I'll write a quick blog entry about this week's running adventures. Monday - with the "Women Can Run" girls. We worked on speed. Except I pulled my left leg quad...didn't push myself as much as I should have.
Tonight - met over here at the Soccer Field track (at my suggestion) and worked on tempo. First two miles at 9 minutes. Third...10 ++++
I have got to work on endurance. I'm going to run "the hill" in front of my house tomorrow. And try for 5 miles on Saturday or Sunday.
May 12th is the 5K.
And the beach on May 19th...that's a motivation!
Quick Run
A little over 2 miles tonight.
After Asher's baseball game - love watching him focus on the ball. 2 strikes...but a determined face and a good swing of the bat for a base hit.
"Go Bubs!"
D gets the kids a scoop of chocolate and vanilla...I change and take off. No music tonight. Just my thoughts. What a great life God provides...
I'm determined to push through for 20 minutes - to get as far as I can. (D's basketball game is at 8 pm.)
Pass by the neighbor's house (they have five kids). Pass by the woman griping at her dog for taking a poop in the street. Pass by the soccer practice. The dad and kids hittin' and catchin'...
Just good to use my muscles. Move my body.
I need that shirt I saw..."one more mile."
Race Day!
After ten weeks of training, the "Women Can Run 5K" was upon me! This was only the third race I have "competed" in since high school. The energy was terrific and the entire experience was extremely rewarding. I even wore my new hat the kids got me for Mother's Day!
I finished in 31:33...seventh out of the Maumelle contenders!
I wanted to keep up my three runs/week and had to miss tonight because D is out of town. I don't want to "lose" what I gained in the past few months. I have to say the best perk of the running clinic was meeting some new kindred spirits. Kandi West and I had many good conversations and exchanged some great advice on our many miles together! (She finished third in the Maumelle group!)
I recommend running/walking for every woman. Great stress relief, splendid exercise, 30 minutes plus of freedom!, etc. etc. etc.
Runnin' in the heat
This was when I "pootered out" last year.
I couldn't take the heat.
But I'm determined to beat it this year.
8 pm run. Fast first mile. Feeling the endorphins. Listenin' to some John Mayer Trio...groovin' in my worn-out runnin' shoes.
I've got to get some new ones this week. I'll make the trek to Easy Runner with a quick stop at Wild Oats. Maybe Thursday.
Ended my run with a few laps around the track. Chattin' with my friend with the hound dog. I love gettin' out in the neighborhood!
These shoes are made for running...
I got NEW SHOES!
Asics - I feel like I'm running on air. I ran a fast two miles (I've been sick for a few days, so decided to ease into it) then a quick walk around the track, jogged another lap and back home.
I feel good!
My Husband: My Personal Trainer
I asked for it! I requested Dyron become my personal trainer after he finished his intense period of training for Ironman Wisconsin. What was I thinking?
When my husband does something for me...he gives it his all! He "interviewed" me - asking me what my fitness goals were, etc. On Saturday, he emailed me an introduction letter (from Dyronman.com Personal Training System), links to various "running" websites, my overall half-marathon training regime, and a weekly letter with my "Week One" workout schedule. He is so clever - making me laugh, encouraging me, energizing me, and supporting me in my goal of completing a half-marathon.
Thanks, babe!
Training: Week Three
Three miles tonight.
Hilly course.
Good time.
I walked...........two times..........shame on me.........
But,
under 11 minute miles.
So,
I'm happy.
And,
I'm going to celebrate...
after the kids go to bed.
With my husband.
Season two of the Cosby Show.
A beer...or two....
and some nachos!
Eight days off...
I was feeling crazy Friday night - very negative. Disappointed at everything I encountered. I was exhausted. I had spent the last two days cleaning my house to get ready for my dad's 65th birthday celebration and I was on the verge of tears.
I'm an investigator and just wanted to know what was wrong with me...why couldn't I pull myself together?
I realized the answer on Saturday afternoon at 2 pm while running with my sister, Martie. I have been sick and I had only been on a run two times in the past two weeks. I was missing the euphoria. The time to think and contemplate life. To find the answers. To pray. To listen to my own music with no interruptions.
I'm telling you...there is no reason for all of the harmful addictions out there.
Just run.
Be free.
Use your body.
Feel your muscles working.
Push yourself.
Faster. Longer.
Running is life-changing!
Got in another run this evening. Solo -
Sweatin' and flyin' -
Downhill
A 6-mile run was on my training schedule for Saturday, but...I decided to devote my day to painting. We are painting the outside of our house. It is currently yucky-late 90's blue and it will soon be "Withered Moss." It is quite a project but Dyron and I are optimistic about a Thanksgiving weekend completion!
Asher, Lillian, and Eden even joined in on the project. Mom and I started "priming" and they wanted to "help." I'll give extra kudos to Oma - she was patient and allowed all of them to take a turn at painting. Lilli did the best work...Eden and Asher were about equal on their abilities. (Eden being too young (motor skills) and Asher being too stubborn (he wouldn't listen to her instruction) to paint properly and with good results.
Anyway, I ran my 6 miles today (new milestone for me!) and decided "I love downhills!" It was an exhilirating run..."no walking" was my mantra...but I wimped out and walked a part of the way up two hills.
I know what freedom is...
"I can't just fight when I know I'll win, that's the end of all belief..." -Sara Groves
When I run -
I forget about all of my responsibilities. I don't have a house to clean. I don't have a birthday party to plan. I'm not a mama. I'm not a wife. I'm just me. A single entity. Feeling the brisk air on my face. Breathing in the scents of the cool evening. Watching the birds, squirrels, and bunnies scurry to find shelter from the cold.
I can't find that sense of freedom and complete peace in a magazine. Or online. Or on television.
I wonder at all of the people in their houses...just trying to make it through another Monday. People who have (possibly) been in an office building all day. Sitting at a desk. And I want them to get outside and enjoy what I am enjoying. To know what I know. That a breath of crisp Fall air is just what a person needs to make their soul smile.
My first 8-miler!
I ran my first 8 miles this morning. I'm feeling tired at the moment...tried to take a nap with Eden but couldn't get my mind to settle down!
It was a terrific run! Now, I feel capable of and excited about my upcoming half-marathon.
I'm just wondering how sore I'm going to be tomorrow...:)
Blessings of a run
I met my sister, Martie and her friend, Jessica at the Big Dam Bridge this morning for a morning run. We started out together and then they stopped for a walk and I kept up my pace. I turned on my Ipod with some recently downloaded new tunes - I purchased the entire "Coco" album and I'm really enjoying it.
I cruised through my 50-minute run and said "goodbye" to the girls. I headed home and jumped in a hot shower and my thoughts instantly turned to the myriad of blessings I experience on a daily basis.
The safety of a solo run in a beautiful outdoor trail.
The warm water to refresh me after my exercise.
The country I live in that allows me to enjoy freedom even though I am a woman.
My healthy body.
My husband who made delicious whole-wheat pancakes for breakfast.
My children who greet me like I am the queen of the universe when I walk in the door. "Did you enjoy your run, mama?" they ask.
Thank you, God for my blessings!
Have a blessed weekend everyone...
First Half-Marathon
If someone would have said, "Marria, you will run a half-marathon in 2008," two years ago I wouldn't have believed them.
Two years ago I still thought running was ludicrous.
When I heard the statement, "Running adds an average of seven years to a person's life," I would joke and say, "Yeah...the problem is you spend those extra seven years running!"
Now, I would gladly spend those extra seven years running...
Now, I consider a good run quality time!
Today I completed the Little Rock Half-Marathon! I was so nervous last night I had butterflies in my stomach and it was very hard to calm down enough to go to sleep. I slept. I woke up at the sound of my alarm...and the butterflies started again!
My good friend, Jacqueline came from Austin to support me in my race. She had lots of good advice (she is an avid runner who has completed two marathons) and cheered me on from several different locations on the course.
I had such a great time! I started running with my sister, Mandie, and then went out on my own sometime during mile three. I had so much fun talking to fellow runners, listening to the bands that were playing every few miles, and just enjoying the excitement of the race crowd!
I made my goal of not walking...my pace was slower than I wanted to run...but I didn't push myself...I just enjoyed the beautiful day and my first half-marathon experience!
Race time: 2:28
Official chip time: I'll have to post it later because I don't even know yet!
Don't
go running after a lasagna dinner! Especially after eating a large portion because it was homemade and delicious!
I was running along at a quick pace thinking, "Wow! I must be a seasoned runner because that lasagna isn't even making me burp..." when...suddenly I started getting the stomach cramps. (I was at the end of my second mile.) I slowed my pace and thought, "I can make it through this...just think happy thoughts."
Then I got a whiff of the pungent smell of fresh mud at the sides of the trail and I almost lost it.
Thanks to all of my "training" during my three pregnancies I successfully kept my dinner down but had to cut my run short...
I walked another half-mile and gave into the pain and nausea.
I feel better now - physically.
I'm bummed - mentally. When is that essential "mind-over-matter" element that experienced runners seem to have going to kick in with me?
"Women Can Run" 4/7/08
The intermediate/advanced group of runners is a small group this year, but we're still having fun! We did speed work tonight (4x200) with a warm-up mile and a cool-down mile. We're all working hard and having a good time getting to know each other. I love being the woman who is helping to inspire others by saying encouraging words like, "You can do it," and "You'll be amazed at how fast you improve with some effort."
I know I can easily complete a 5K but I would love to get a time of 28:00 or less for the race in May. Wish me luck!
Running: May 2008
Broke in the new Asics tonight.
Ran a 30:04 5K at the "Women Can Run" clinic tonight.
I've got to get a 5-miler in this weekend.
I need to start my serious training for my 2nd half-marathon coming up on Labor Day weekend at Virginia Beach!
I can already feel the sweat pouring down my forehead while running in the Arkansas summer heat and humidity...
Bring it on!
A little bump
There's been a "little bump" in my road to running a sub 30-minute 5K next Saturday. Friday afternoon, I tripped over my computer cord, bent my big right-toe under, and fell on my right knee. I layed on my bedroom floor and thought, "I'm dying..." And then my next thought was, "I won't be able to run..." (I know. You're thinking I'm weird.) Then, I started to cry...and call for Asher.
It's now Sunday. I've soaked my foot in Epsom Salts. I've iced. I've taken Ibuprofen. I've had a few beers. I'm still limping. My running clinic's "Mock 5K" is tomorrow...I guess I'll just observe and cheer on my fellow runners. I'm praying for fast healing. I'm feeling impatient...
I also have hairy toes!
"Women Can Run 2008"
I couldn't run...but I participated anyway by cheering on my fellow runners. It was a gorgeous morning...well, for running...cool and overcast, low humidity. Everyone did great! What a terrific group of women! I'm sure we'll be running and hanging out this summer.
Good job, ladies!
This is my...
"I'm gonna write about running since I can't run..." blog entry.
When I started running two years ago, I had a weird pre-running set of rituals. These rituals included the perfect combination of clothing in regards to the weather conditions, two pair of socks (one thin regular and one breathable running sock on each foot), shoelaces tied to the perfect tightness, chapstick, peppermint oil (for coolness, energy, or dry mouth), my Ipod, and my hair in a perfect ponytail. I'm telling you my routine bordered on paranoia...if something wasn't right I felt like my run wouldn't be what it should. I would also obsess about the route. I would start planning the route in my head hours before my run. It's like I had to picture myself running the miles before I could head out the door!
Then, I went through a very spiritually cleansing phase. I would always cry or have some epiphany about life or really "get" God during my run. My head felt so clear. My stress was melting away. My prayers were deep and meaningful. My hardest questions seemed to be answered with such immediacy and clarity!
Then, I wrote volumes in my head on my runs. (I needed a headset with an attached microphone and a tape recorder!)
Finally, about halfway into my half-marathon training I started needing running. Forget the rituals. I just wanted to go. Anytime. Any weather. It became my drug. I knew if I just got out the door I would enter into my own private paradise...I would be on my continuing journey of running. I was always so eager to see what I would discover - about myself, life, God...
I smile a lot when I run. Even when I'm totally alone. I just feel so...me. It's the total release of inhibitions. It's just me. Moving down the path to who I am becoming... It's knowing "I can!" "I am!"
I miss running.
They remember...
My legs remember how to run! I went for a lovely evening run last night...and I feel back to "normal." My legs wanted to go and go...I had energy again!
I'm starting to mentally prepare myself for my scheduled half-marathon at the end of August. Now, I've got to buckle down and start physically preparing for it. NO MORE EXCUSES! My toe is well on the way to a full recovery and I'm feeling good.
Only 10 more weeks to prepare for 13 miles...and my goal is a faster time than 2:24. Can I do it? YES, I CAN! Summer heat is the best training...
Long Run
I had my longest run tonight since the eve of the broken toe. After having a dreadful run in the suffocating heat on Friday night, I enjoyed the mid-80's with little humidity this evening. I set my stopwatch on my Ipod (a feature I just discovered a few days ago...I know...I'm slow...) and told myself I would run for 45 minutes. I completed my 5K route in 32 minutes (I was fairly impressed with myself) and had the energy to keep going...I ran for 43 minutes and 28 seconds! Yippee! I felt so good. I've got to keep it up (no matter how HOT it gets) so I can complete my upcoming half-marathon at Virginia Beach.
(An added benefit of running...I didn't feel guilty at all when I had an extra half bacon and tomato sandwich tonight AND a few scoops of ice cream for dessert!)
Morning Running
It's so against my nature. But, it's SOOOOOOOOO HOT! So, I must get up early and run. My first morning run in a LOOONNNNGGGG time was Monday morning. It was actually rather enjoyable. Sort of cool. Extremely humid. I even included two sprints. After the second sprint, I was walking...not wanting to run again...and luckily, some dude ran past me! Well, I had to keep up! He turned around after a half mile to head back down the trail. I said a quick..."Thanks. I needed that!" He replied, "No problem!" and I ran home.
Virginia Beach Rock-n-Roll Half-Marathon 2008
Oh...I was pathetic, girls!
Yes, I "ran" a 2:42.
What can I say?
It was HOT!
I was sweating within the first half-mile.
I knew I was under-trained...and I was right!
It was an enjoyable experience...I met three new women. I encouraged one young woman to run a few miles... I told a (61 year-old grandmother and pediatrician) she was my pacer...(I kept running past her and falling behind her)...and I ran to the last mile with another woman...a mother of two (43 year-old) running her first half-marathon. It kept me going encouraging other women to run!
So, a good race overall...
(but I was still a wimp!)
Shannon (my lovely (and younger)) sister-in-law clocked a 2:12 half-marathon, my father-in-law was in 40 seconds ahead of me, and my mother-in-law was a minute behind me! Wow!
Got 2 run....
Okay...it's been almost two weeks since the half. Yes, I was sick. (Finally feeling better today.) But, I've got to get down to business. Anyone have any motivation for me?????
Night Running
It's been a long time since I've been running at night. In the dark. In the cool. Aaahh. How enjoyable! I ran a quick two miles. Got all good and sweaty.
I rejoiced in my running tonight. Stretched my legs. Got my heart to beating. Loved it!
Running in the Cold
I went for a run yesterday evening in the brisk evening air. It felt so good. I had a weird Monday. I think I overdosed on talk radio and was in a funk. A funk of worry. A funk of anger.
As I ran, I prayed for peace. I felt the anger leave me. No more confusion. No more worry. No more angst.
I just ran. I started crying. I started feeling hopeful. I started feeling God's love. I knew He would never leave me. No matter what the future held. I knew.
I ran. I ran away from the confusion of the world. The endless talk. The endless promises with no promise.
I ran. I ran like a crazy woman. I didn't care if someone saw me. I needed to run into God. To let him know. I trust you.
I trust you.
&@!*# toe
Some of you might recall I broke my right big toe last April. Now, I'm dealing with my damaged toenail growing out...and it is another big nuisance! It is quite painful. I've been running but I think I've made it worse. I tried to run on Saturday and didn't even make it half a mile before I had to stop and limp back home...
&@!*#
I'm trying to be patient but I have a half-marathon in December! Arrgghh! It's so frustrating!
Running and Writing
My writing has been suffering lately. And, now I know it is because my running has been suffering too. After every half-marathon I have run (which is a mere three), I have had a few weeks where I was totally unmotivated to pound the pavement. It always takes me about a month to get back into the mood of running...
Alas...
I ran the White Rock Half on December 14th and just had my first "good run" a few days ago. On Saturday, I power walked up this massive hill near my house and then ran four miles. Wow! I felt rejuvenated. Powerful. Weak. Cleansed. Refreshed. I had the feeling of the Energizer Bunny. I was laughing. I was crying. I was sweating. My mind was clear. I was writing a book in my head.
and I realized...
my writing has been suffering because I haven't been moving my legs. It's so weird. But it's so connected for me.
My brain turns on when my legs start to move...
My endorphins surge through my body and I THINK!
So, I'm back to it. I'm running again. I'm a writer again.
"Women Can Run" (And should run!) Clinic 2009
This is the third year I have participated in the local "Women Can Run/Walk" clinic. It is ten weeks of training for a 5K (3.1 miles). Some women train to run the 5K and others train to walk the 5K. Our clinic met two nights a week and all worked together to meet our goal. It is a great time to encourage and teach each other. I loved sharing my running experiences/knowledge/progression of the past three years with beginning runners. I love to encourage others to "get out there" and run!
I enjoyed listening to Jo Owens-Nauslar at the pre-race pasta dinner on Friday night. She was quite inspirational! She has a doctorate in physical education and encourages people to live in their "peak performance body." This doesn't mean having the body of a professional athlete... it means having your best body for maximum health. She encourages people to "eat right" and "move (their) body!" She also stressed how we sometimes are the only "sermon" others will "see." This means eating healthy and exercising not only for ourselves but for our friends, children, and family.
My 5K goal was reached on Saturday at the race... I wanted to run 3.1 miles in under 30 minutes and my official time was 29:25! Right on time!
I've...
had some good runs lately. Despite the heat. Despite my own laziness. Despite my hectic life.
But, I've been having some distinct soreness in my right leg. And in my right buttock. (Yes. Be mature. I just used the word buttock.) So, I'm headed to the chiropractor tomorrow morning. I'm hoping she can "fix" me because I've been thirsting for a good, long run. I'm ready to get back into some serious training for another half-marathon. I'm already thinking ahead to my full marathon... when I'm 40. Anyone want to join me?
3 miles
I have been such a slacker lately in regard to running... so, I went for a 3-miler on Friday. I did fairly well... but I've got a long way to go to reach my goal of 2:15 or faster for the half-marathon in March.
I've got to get motivated and rediscover my love of running.
Maybe some new running shoes will help!
Back 2 it...
It's the 2nd official week of half-marathon training. I just returned from my scheduled 3-miler...
Running is so good for me! Not just physically... but mentally. I get some quiet time to think... pray... reflect...
I love the freedom running gives me. I am challenged and set free at the same time. I feel strong and weak simultaneously. It's an incredible feeling I've only ever experienced with another event in my life. Childbirth.
I'm so thankful for being introduced to the joys of running. My husband was instrumental in challenging me to "go for it." I really appreciate him and his encouragement.
I challenge everyone to try running. I don't think it's ever too late. Even if it's a shuffle. Even if you're the last one to complete the race. You've accomplished something. You've met the challenge. You've improved yourself.
Try it. You might like it.
Running with the girls
Supposed to be an 8-miler... turned into a little over 9. But, who cares? Time with friends. Much needed exercise. Great conversation. Laughter.
We all decided a little suffering is good for the soul. And making soul sisters. Connected by the miles we cover together. SO MUCH BETTER THAN SHOPPING THERAPY! Running could solve a lot of humanity's problems.
Everyone needs time to reflect on their own life. To reflect with friends is even better... they have a way of offering a wise perspective.
A long journey together. A winter afternoon spent making muscles while soaking in the sunshine and the blue sky. A few steps closer to our upcoming half marathon.
Jump in the hot tub. Grab a Pale Ale. And bask in the glow of accomplishment and friendship.
2:14:55
I ran my 4th half-marathon on Sunday. I made my goal of 2:15 or better by 5 seconds! I was pleased...
This is the first half-marathon where I trained with a few other people. I ran the most miles with my sister, Mandie. She told me over the past few months how much I encouraged her to run stronger and faster... I think she really stepped up in the half-marathon and encouraged me!
I also ran with another friend, Shelley. I really cherished all of our training runs together. Shelley is older than me and has experienced things in life I haven't... so I enjoyed developing a relationship with her over the many miles we ran together. I loved giving her tips and sharing in the experience of her first half-marathon. She is a strong runner and helped push me in my training.
This training season I learned to run around companionship and conversation instead of with music in my ears. The miles seemed to fly by while my companions and I "solved the world's problems!" I also enjoyed many hot tub sessions with Mandie and Shelley after cold, Sunday afternoon runs!
I told my sister I don't want to give up our long weekend runs. I've already got my next race on the calendar and I'm looking forward to many more miles with my girls!
