This week was my first week back where I was allowed to run 3 miles a day. I ran mon-friday and even ran my first 4 mile run:)
This week coming up I will mix it up between 3 and 4 mile runs and still do my spinning and lifting.
This 9wks off and the last 3-4 of cross training have given me LOTS of time to reflect.
I have reflected on my love for running and why I do it.
I have realized that i will be competitive at ANY sport you throw me into, not just running.
I have learned that I need MORE than JUST running to be healthy and avoid further injury in the future. I am getting SERIOUS about eating better and cross training so my body can be STRONG.
I have been surprised to learn that I don't think I could ever go back to JUST running. I LOVE what cross training does for my mind and body and I LOVE the variety!
I have thought and thought and thought.......
And now it's here. I am allowed to run again....and you know what? I don't have a stinkin' clue what i'm going to do this summer or where my body will take me...and I'M OKAY WITH IT.
I have some general goals like:
-Get ready for the Hood to Coast relay I'm doing with my friends and husband,
-Continue to pursue weight lifting to gain more strength
-to change my eating habits and take my recent test of 22% body fat down to about 18%. I want to be LEAN.
Other than that I am just going to ENJOY it and have FUN!
I have made the decision to Join Team Athena:) I am meeting with Head Coach, Nikki Raffie, next weekend to discuss the whole thing, as she will be my new coach.
This will be my 3rd coach in 2yrs. I loved John's coaching but he is just too busy with a new baby and his clinic responsibilities..it was the best decision for me to find a team where I can get and offer support to other female runners. I am excited to see how this will help me grow.
For the THIRD year in a row, I won't be able to run the one race I've been dreaming of (for 3yrs)....
The Sauvie Island half marathon:(.....but I am going to go to support friends and run the 5K they are offering this year.
I am sure I will be slow as a Mo-Fo but that's okay!!! i'm actually a little scared but it give me something to look forward to over the next 2wks:)
To finish this post I want to share an experience I had today.
I had someone ask me if I run b/c I am unhappy and am running away from problems in my life?
I found this interesting....and responded with:
' No. Not at all. I LOVE to run. I run b/c it makes me HAPPY, it FEEDS my competitive spirit. It clears my mind and helps me get ready for the day. I am a better MOTHER, better WIFE and happier woman BECAUSE I run. It is my PASSION".
and that pretty much sums it up. I can't WAIT to get up tomorrow morning and hit the pavement, thanking GOD for every single STEP!