What are you going to be today?

Running is a big question mark that's there each and every day. It asks you, 'Are you going to be a wimp or are you going to be strong today?'
Peter Maher

Today I was stronger than usual. I got up and out of bed early....that was the hard part. Getting dressed and ready for a run once I had left the comfort of my bed was not too difficult. Once out on the pavement and with a buddy, the miles just ticked away. Just 3 today in the thick early morning air...but 3 more to add to the bank that gets this mind and body ready for October.

Training for this marathon has been different in so many ways from last year. Joining a group, creating new relationships with other runners, and seeing a new perspective on training have been just a few of the benefits. I was so keyed into my training last year that I had to run every mile by the book...never long and never short. I am beginning to realize that every run is one that adds to the bank and, while not every run is a good run, they all add up. I am also learning more about myself and my pace. I am learning to listen to my body more than ever. I am learning that rest is good. Rest is important... I do not have to be doing something every minute of the day! One of the biggest things I have realized is that running does not CLEAR my head....running allows me to sort through things in order to be a better mom, wife, friend, teacher....

I already know that I am strong enough to run a marathon...once....however, am I strong enough to run a marathon a second or third time? Only time will tell but for today I was strong...strong enough to get out of bed and run!

In Memory....

Today's nasty, hot, muggy, sweat, miserable 5 mile run was dedicated to the memory of PO Thor Soderberg who was killed in the line of duty yesterday. My discomfort was nothing compared to the loss and discomfort his wife, family and friends feel at this time.

People ask how the wives and families of police, firefighters, military personnel and other first responders do it...how they live with the fear. I can speak for myself when I say that I put it out of my mind. I trust my husband and his partners to keep each other safe. It is nights like last night that bring the fear back home. When the phone rings late at night my hair stands up on the back of my neck. I worry....always....but put it out of my mind to get through the day. If I let the worry and fear consume me, I would never leave the house. I pray...a lot....for all those who put their lives on the line each and every day to keep us safe and protect our freedoms. They do not take risks alone as each has a family and friends they long to return to at the end of each tour of duty.

So today...and every day... thank a first responder or military person. Thank someone for putting their life on the line to keep you and your family safe...because yesterday Chicago lost one of its Finest and Bravest and a family lost a loved one.

We will never forget.....
www.cpdmemorial.org

I am what I am

Slow-but-sure has always worked for me, in running and in most other arenas. I wouldn't mind being a Carl Lewis or Usain Bolt, but I've found little payoff in attempting to be what I'm not.
Amby Burfoot

Being what you are. Feeling comfortable in your own skin. This is something it took me years to understand and I am still not totally there yet.

After a wonderful long, hot and hilly 9 miler with my cousin (who is MUCH younger and faster than me) I began to think about what it is to be. Just be. She is so confident...getting ready to spend a year in Thailand traveling and teaching. Leaving her comfort zone and experiencing life. Taking a leap of faith.

So...now....at 44 I have begun to realize who I am...I am slow...but I am sure that there is great payoff in being just who and what I am...just being me.