Overcoming

Fear.

Anxiety.

Hills.

Distance.


You'd think I'd have no problem with any of these things after choosing a half marathon. That's what I thought too. Until I'm anticipating the next long run that will set my record for my longest workout to date. Until I'm facing (what appears to be) a huge hill. Until I hear that I've only made it one mile and I have more to run ahead than I've already completed.

This has been a huge test of independence for me. When I started running last year I didn't go unless my husband went with me. That poor, sweet man of mine. I didn't realize how much I tortured him. With all of my whining, complaining, crying. And most of all, just being flat out slow! He's not a long distance runner anymore, but he was at in his younger years. He's fast, much faster than I.

Today was my longest workout to date. I finished 7 miles in 1:09:41, with a pace of 9:56. Huge improvement for me. The best part of it all was that I didn't walk one bit of it. Either run it, or don't.

Here's what did happen:

1. At mile 2, I had to tinkle. Again. Even though I made my way in to the bushes, I'm pretty sure that at certain vantage points along the higway someone saw me with my pants down. Wouldn't be the first time, we were all 21 once. Right? Maybe that was just me.

2. At mile 3, I realized I hadn't situated my undies quite right after my pit stop. I'm pretty sure that at certain vantage points along the highway someone saw me readjusting my undies for running comfort. This was done while running.

3. At mile 4.85, I had a stretch break. This was only because I hit an intersection on the highway that had an actual light and I was required to wait for the cross walk. Lame. Benefit, my legs did feel refreshed.


Regardless of all of my anxiety and worry, the thoughts that I might not want to go for my run, I absolutely love it when I'm out and about. I didn't feel done at 7, but I'm trying to stick to my program the best I can so I don't get burnt out. I'm almost through the hardest part, the first three weeks of making this a habit. I'm thankful for the cool and cloudy weather, and the beautiful ocean breeze today. Made for the perfect run and now it's going to make for perfect sleeping weather. Work has claimed me tonight.

Hope everyone has a wonderful day!