Running outside

I've been running on treadmills for over a year now. It was nice being able to simply set a pace on the treadmill and have it force me to run at that pace while comfortably watching a show and enjoying the indoor weather.

 Now that I'm training for the half-marathon this summer, I figured it was time to start running outside. It's been a pretty weird adjustment. Figuring out how to pace myself. Planning a route to take. Stopping at stoplights. "Pounding" the pavement (it hurt my legs the first time). But I'm assuming it's all going to be worth it in the end.

 I ran six miles yesterday. It felt like it took forever (I always forget to check what time I start/end), but I'm pretty sure it was the longest run of my life.
 

 If I were to follow Mari's blogging patterns, I think this is the part where I write about some dramatic self-realization and sprinkle in some motivational thoughts. Well, um, running is hard. Suck it up, buttercup.

Wicked winds call for track time

As many of you know, Wasilla can produce some pretty wicked winds.  The past two days of Spring break have felt like bitter cold winter due to the wind chill.  I really struggle mentally with going out in the wind when it is so cold.  Fortunately, I was able to get a few runs in at the indoor track this week. Thanks to my friend Crystal for sending me her track punch card (since she moved to UT., it won't be useful for her there.)

Another struggle is running around and around in circles for miles and miles.  So, today I had to fight the mental battle and take the first step forward on the track.  I did it and I even added a few extra miles than I had originally planned on.  I officially started my marathon training schedule last week.  I have been doing some intervals at the track which really push me to kick it up and give it all I've got.  We all have to dig deep sometimes.  Just getting dressed to run can be the greatest challenge.  But, be committed.  Be consistent.  Timp half is 4 1/2 months away.  YOU will be ready IF you stick w/ your training.  Trust me, there are days that I don't want to run or don't feel like running.  But, if it's written on my calendar, I know it's a "to do."  I always feel better after going.  Always!

If you are enjoying 'real' Spring weather right now, be so grateful and run an extra mile for me (please!!!)  Dry pavement is a gift to you lower 48ers.  Kiss the dry trail for me (if you dare.)  We still have snow and ice here and there.  It will be a mental challenge through April.  But, we've done it before, so we'll do it again.  Always better to press forward than stand still and whine.  It's time to arise and shine!  If you haven't started training yet, it's time to start.  You will enjoy race day so much more if you are prepared.  It can actually be fun to run!!!!!!

If you need more motivation, go to: vanormerview.blogspot.com and read Mari's 'learning to walk' post.

We can do hard things!

Smiles & miles,
Kary

Forward

 So, I have been slacking a little. Last week I only ran 3 days, this week I will do my darndest to get in 4. We are still in the middle of finding a home, and it has been just a little crazy. (A lot crazy!) That is life though, right? Gotta keep your head up.

Today was beautiful. The sky was blue with dark grey clouds -- my favorite combination. (A rainbow would make it perfection.) :-) I was slowing down when I heard a weird noise way above me. I looked up and there they were, my feathered friends honking me along (they always know when to come). :-) 

 Mom is gone so I have been running with the stroller again. Man it is SO much easier without it! I use my arms a lot and the stroller makes it really tricky. But I made peace with the stroller long ago . . . make that 12 years now. Crazy. I am getting old. That's not suppose to happen! 

Just Keep Moving Forward  . . . 

Just Keep Swimming

Kim and Jim get in a quick 1500 before bed.