It's official...I'm a runner

This past weekend I decided to shake things up a bit and head to the nature trail for my long run. Lets face it, there are only so many times that you can run around this city before you get tired of the same crack in the sidewalk catching your shoe, that annoying car that always parks over the sidewalk, and the terrifying dog that, although you know his fence is coming, still manages to jump out and scare you.

 It was cool and overcast and the trail was so peaceful that by the time I found a mile marker I was already at mile 4. There were bunnies a-plenty, deer crossing my path, and just to bring me back to reality, an angry goose that assisted me in "up-ing" the pace.

I started early so I wouldn't miss out on time with my favorite ladies so it was pretty quiet on my way out. On my way back in though, I was greeted by flocks of cyclists heading out for their long ride as they prepare for RAGBRAI. It was humbling to share the trail with such amazing athletes and awesome to watch as huge swarms of bikes heading straight at me would effortlessly merge into a straight line on one command..."runner."

The first time a group of cyclists yelled "runner," my first instinct was to move over and let the runner behind me pass so that we could all get through. I merged over, took a peek over my shoulder, and realized there was no one there. The second group of cyclists yelled the same thing and after turning around again, it dawned on me...I am that "runner" that they are yelling about.

I have been "running" since January. Most days I just try to fall forward and convince myself to put one foot in front of the other until my time is up or my mileage is covered. Lately, however, my runs have been different because I am thinking of things other than my lack of oxygen, my aching knees, or my weak mind that reminds me I could always just walk. So, with my poor form and slow pace I have had a lot of time to think and last weekend I realized that I have learned a lot over the past few months from my runs. Here are my top ten things I have learned about running.

1. The right shoes make all the difference. Oh how I loved the cute shoes I passed over, but I have yet to battle shin splints, bloody toenails, or blisters. For that, I'm thankful for my not-quite-as-cute, cute shoes.

2. My running buddy is invaluable. She lives way too far away, but receiving texts with her mileage and time is just the motivation I need to  get my run in, or the guilt I need when my excuses get in the way.

3. I need a goal. I am currently registered for the Wisconsin Marathon (the half portion...I'm not crazy!) and it has been great motivation to keep me on track.

4. There isn't always a thought. I over-think things and I could never understand how it was possible when I asked Mark, "what are you thinking?" that he could respond with, "nothing." How do you not always have thoughts? I finally understand. Running has put my mind more at rest and I have experienced a few wonderful moments of un-thought. Then I usually spend the next mile thinking about how blissful it seemed. I told you I think too much.

5. My body doesn't lie. When it hurts I rest, ice, repeat.

6. Small victories are to be celebrated. The days that my feet feel like lead...I shorten things up. What's the harm? As they say, I'm lapping everyone on the couch, right? Cheers to that.

7. Never underestimate the power of a good sports bra. Enough said.

8. My time is precious. Every minute I run is a minute away from the girls so I like to use it to its full. I plan, I prepare, I pray. It's my time to organize my thoughts, make sure I'm using my time wisely, and to be thankful for what I have while praying for those who don't.

9. Cheerleaders are amazing. I have 4 great ones at home that keep my goals in check.

10. And finally...this weekend I learned...I am a runner. It hasn't yet reached my body (it hurts) or my mind (it struggles), but it has reached my heart. I find myself reading books/articles/blogs on how to do it better, I'm completing double digit runs on the weekends, and  I get excited mapping out my route or trying to shave seconds off my time.

So, thank you to the cyclists that helped me understand that I no longer want to be a runner. I am a runner. Now I just want to be a better one. The photo above has been my encouragement..."The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start."