I have started over running so many times that I can’t count. Yes, I know that just keeping would be the easiest solution, but injuries, moving, babies, boredom all get in the way. But, my heart aches every time I see runners and ask myself WHY I’m not out there.
Starting over is always hard. But, it is always doable. And, getting back to my previous state of running fitness is always easier with each time. I don’t know how that works, but I’m thankful.
I’ve run with fits and starts the last 30 years. Ran all through middle school and high school. But, I only did that so that I could kiss up to the softball coach who also coached cross country. Did practically nothing besides drink, work and chase boys during college. (Notice I didn’t say studying).
Ran again a crapload when I was just out of college and traveling across the country for my job. Even though I was running 40-45 miles a week and up to 18 mile long runs, it never crossed my mind that I could master the marathon. What a dummy.
When I hated my career in my late 20′s, I trained and ran the Marine Corp Marathon. Did the Hal Higdon Intermediate Training Program all by myself. Loved it and ran a 4:07.
Started running AGAIN in 2002 after I got married and was bored with work. This time I joined a training program in San Francisco. It was extremely low mileage, but hard core speed and interval workouts (at least it FELT hard core to me). The program also “asked you” to do loads of cross training in the off days. I THRIVED. And, I mean thrived. I got FAST…at least FAST for this squatty body. (I do NOT look like a runner). Ran the St. George marathon in 3:40 and qualified for Boston. But, then I got bored!!!! Didn’t do Boston and floundered. Got injured, but not from running. Then got more bored and then pregnant.
But, I MISS, MISS, MISS running. I miss my cheesy running music. I miss the cruise over trails. And, yes, I’ve run sporadically, but nothing in the last few years worth any type of inspiration. I suck at running with the jogging stroller. I think I’m too short for the handlebars. The Target shopping carts are actually better for running.
Please let me be back. I miss my running self. Running Day #2 is all sorts of suckiness, but I was still happy.
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