I turn 40 this year. Back in high school, it was so easy to get in shape. Now, 25 years later, its time to work for what I want. Sit around, and the diabetes, phlebitis, cancer and heart disease in my genetics await me.
So about a year ago, I started walking again. 1.5 miles up Mt. Konocti and back before work. At first, I was sure it would kill me! But gradually, it felt better and better. The aches and pains went away and pretty soon, it felt awesome.
After a few months though, it didn’t feel like quite enough. I wanted to run. So I just started with a short 1-3 mile jog. Back in high school, that seemed so far! Again, it was tough in the beginning. But I kind of like the soreness that comes from using new muscles now. And after giving birth to three children, my whole perspective on endurance has changed.
In high school, I used to look at running as just making it through the workout put before me by the coach. Now, I was the one making the workouts, deciding how far and how fast I wanted to go. I run alone, noone to push me, noone to hold me back. Just me and my iPod and the road is now my friend.
In January, my dad asked if I would do the Portland Marathon with him. Years ago, he was an ultra marathon runner, now in retirement, his mileage has decreased and as happens with all of us, work can get in the way of our schedules. So I agreed, giving us both an ambitious goal.
I have always considered marathons something for other people, less sane than myself, to do. It is by far the most ambitious athletic goal of my life and may very well be my last goal.
But…although I haven’t run it yet, and although I have only the faintest confidence that I can finish one…I still can’t help dreaming that IF I finish, IF it doesn’t kill me…and IF I am crazy enough to try a few more…well, maybe I could qualify for the Boston Marathon someday. I know, it seems impertinent to even vocalize that dream, to qualify for the finest gathering of elite athletes in the US. But heck, what good are dreams for, if not to keep us moving forward?
This page has been created to give me a perspective on the journey. From middle-aged mom of three, working full time with local County government…to runner, a woman with confidence who has developed the ability to tap into my inner strength by getting out there, hitting the roads and logging the miles.
TOOLBOX:
The following are links to the tools that have gotten me this far.
Hammer Nutrition
