happy at home

CROSSING ITEMS OFF THE BUCKET LIST
I mentioned two months ago, that one of the things I want to do before I die, is to run a race. I immediately started running, using this training schedule. I used to be very active and physically fit...until I had children. Since then, I have sporadically exercised, usually doing classes at the gym, which I enjoyed (a lot!) but always dropped when I became pregnant. So, seven months after the birth of my third son, I was very, very out of shape. The first training sessions required running in only one minute intervals, and even that was challenging. So, no one is more amazed than me that I am now able to run for thirty minutes straight! What a difference eight weeks can make. I have enjoyed this much more than I ever could have anticipated. The thrill of seeing a new (daunting) challenge in the horizon, and pushing myself physically and mentally to reach and meet those challenges, has been very, very rewarding. I have absolutely loved it. I have actually looked forward to putting my shoes on and hitting the pavement.

So, tomorrow, Saturday, is my first race ever. I am running the See Spot Run 5K with my friend, Amanda. I am really excited about it, but nervous too. I have been having a lot of pain in the insides of my shins the last few times I have tried to run. I am hoping that with all the adrenaline and excitement of the race, that I will be able to push through it. I have not been able to complete my last three runs because of the muscle pain in my legs. I have taken the advice of several other runners and am following the guidelines they have set forth, so hopefully, everything will be great! As this is my first run, and I don't have a previous time to try and beat, I have very simple goals. To finish, and to run the whole thing. I would also like to not come in last. :)

Anyway, I will let you know how it goes after Saturday! It is exciting to be able to check off something off my list! It is very rewarding. After Saturday, it will be time to choose the next item on the list...

*This image from flickr.com