I'm a runner?

So, growing up I was always had the mentality that I only ran if I was being chased. I was NOT in any way, shape, or form a runner. One day I got it in my head that I wanted to run a 5K. I have no idea what possessed me to do this. I started training and at first it was beyond challenging. My first 5K came and my only goal was just to make it across the finish line. I was so proud of myself when I did it and in about 33 minutes! For a self-proclaimed non-runner, I was so excited for that time. Sure, there were people that finished in 17 minutes, but that didn't matter.

So, I caught the running bug. I slowly started not just suffering through it, but even starting to enjoy it. This year, a bunch of different factors kept me away from my running shoes. I injured my foot, I started a new job, and right now I'm working full time and taking three grad classes to finish up my MPA. To say that I'm busy is an understatement. I used that as a pathetic excuse.

Tuesday, I made my first trip back to the Y in well over a month. It was rough. And, frustrating! I went from running 2-3 miles consistently to suffering through half a mile. I know that I'll build up again, but it's the process that just sucks.

Tomorrow, the training guide for the River Bank Run comes out. There's a 5K and a 10K, but for 2010, I'm setting my goals high: the daunting 25K. That's 15.5 miles! Ridiculous. It intimidates me to no end, but I want to try. The 5K in 2008 was my first ever 5K and as I watched all the 25K'ers pick up their metals at the end, I was so envious. All I got was a tiny pin! This time, I want the metal.

grace + peace,

mindy