For the Love of Running

I think I'm starting to understand why people are so addicted to running. The half hour before I go out to run, I completely drag my feet, try to come up with excuses why I shouldn't go, etc. But half way through my run I realize that I'm fine, I'm not gonna die, etc. The last few minutes, I'm exhilarated. Then in the evening, I can't wait for my next run, wondering if I can go one minute longer, faster, etc. This running thing is so weird.

First Outdoor Run

Yesterday, I was able to run for the first time outdoors. It was a balmy 37 degrees here! I decided to take my dog with me, she's getting a little beefy. It was definately a challenge both to be outdoors on the ice and melted snow, but mostly because my dog was completely clueless. She kept cutting in front of me and wanted to run a heck of a lot faster than I was able. By mid run she had gotten the idea, but it's still going to take some work. I had to giggle when I finished, my ipod reported that I had run my fastest mile...with the dog pulling me the entire way! I think she'll be a great pace motivator.

Shoes

Okay, so I was not trying to subscribe to the idea that you had to pay $100 (or so) for a pair of running shoes. I went to Target and bought a pair of running shoes for $29. After a week of blisters and bruised feet, I gave up and splurged on a pair of $75 (on sale!) Nikes. So I tried them out today and they feel like running on pillows! Lesson learned.

Difficult Start

I haven't been able to start training this week. Our family had a series of unfortunate events including two seperate funerals. This has been a long cold winter:( I actually did get on a treadmill, but I just didn't have it in me with such a heavy heart. I'm hoping for sunnier or at least happier days soon.

Registered for Half Marathon

Imagine me, are marathon runner!?! I registered today for the Disney Half Marathon, with both excitement and a great sense of fear. I have never been a runner, but have been somewhat athletic most of my life.
This winter in MN has not been kind, and has kept many of us Minnesotans inside. I have come to realize that staying indoors has made me very out of shape. I'm not sure what I was thinking, but I thought that I'd hop on that treadmill and start running 5 miles. No way! This is going to be a long, long journey.
I was able to con a few of my co-workers and my cousin into registering with me for the half marathon. I'm trying to surpress my disney fanatic side, so I don't freak them out:) I visited Disney World last year and during my planning process, became hooked on all things Disney. I have watched many disney world television shows, read many books and especially love disney world podcasts. It was while listening to one of these podcasts that I became inspired to run the half marathon.
I ran the idea of running in this marathon by my husband. Of course, he thought that I was crazy but was willing to support me. I'm always setting crazy goals for myself, so I suppose this is no different to him.
My 9 year old son simply laughted and said there was "no way" I could do this! Well, I hope to prove him wrong and teach him to set goals and follow them. Pressure!
Well, I hope you enjoy this blog as I begin to train. Wish me luck, I'm gonna need it!