My on-again off-again relationship with running experienced an off-again period this year. In January I ran my second marathon and my first (and probably last) Goofy challenge. The back-to-back races didn’t bother me, the wonky sleep schedule did. It was strong and steady after that as I prepared for the Glass Slipper challenge, which I highly enjoyed. However, March and April featured spurts of running that just petered out in May. Then, it got hot. I mean really really hot. Since I already work outside, nothing seemed worth an extra 30 to 60 minutes in heat indexes of 105 degrees. With no easy access to a treadmill, I switched to the exercise bike and my indoor Total Gym.
I knew that I wasn’t feeling like I normally did, and when I stepped on the scale I found out why. I was missing the physical, mental and emotional rewards of running. So, I signed up for my third marathon and next year’s Glass Slipper Challenge, and today I put on those shoes and went out the door.
I needed today’s run. I need all 3.11 uncomfortable and tough miles. I needed to get my mental callouses back and remember all those important gifts running has given to me.
I learned a lot on this on-again run. I learned I still hate the first mile. I learned that despite the fact that it was a relatively cool day, I still sweat A LOT. I learned that the inner Bad Ass never left. But the most important thing I learned was that it’s not about how many times you stop, but how many times you start.
Running The Extra Smile 