Running

I started running in junior high school because a friend asked if I wanted to go out for track with her.  I said sure.  I believe it was in 10th grade.  I had always been fast - I loved racing the boys in elementary school - but I didn't go into track with high hopes.  I probably joined more to get a new pair of shoes and meet boys! :)

I quickly fell in love with the feeling you get when you are racing along side someone and are able to pull ahead at the last minute.  I ran all through high-school and college but have had a hard time maintaing consistency since then.  I've done some 5k's, a few 10k's and even one 10 mile race when I was studying abroad in Australia.  Most of those were however were PRE-kids.

I was in awe as my sister-in-law ran a marathon last summer and when my friend Kristin called at the end of last year and asked if I wanted to run a half I jumped at the opportunity.  I'm not pregnant...not nursing... and finally felt like I could devote some time to myself without feelings of guilt.  The best part is that Steve also jumped on board and although we aren't able to run together we are helping each other make it a priority.

The half-marathon is Memorial Day weekend in Madison.  This Sunday we are exactly three weeks out!!!  Eeeek!  Training has been great. I started most of it on the treadmill but have recently moved outside.  I have realized that although I jumped at the opportunity I continue to surprise myself. I don't think I REALLY thought I could do it.  Each time the milage goes up I wonder if I can finish but so far so good.

This weekend, our training takes us to Lake Geneva for a 10k that Steve and I are running with Julie and Randy.  I am super excited to run with Julie who was a best buddy of mine from track. :)  It'll be fun to run together again.

I am not striving for a particular time or trying to beat anyone or anything in particular.... My biggest goal is to finish as strong as I am able.  I am as proud of myself for sticking with the training as I think I will be for finishing the race.  It feels good to be running again.