I AM A RUNNER

I AM A RUNNER because I run.  Not because I run fast.  Not because I run far.  I AM A RUNNER because I say I am.  And no one can tell me I'm not.

-John Bingham, author and runner

I find this quote to be exceptionally motivating for beginning runners.  When I first started running, I didn't consider myself a runner.  I was probably running for 6 months before I actually considered myself a runner. And no, I was not fast.  I was actually pretty slow (think 11 minute miles).  But like Mr. Bingham indicated, it does not matter how fast you run.  As long as you are running, you are a runner.  Don't ever let anyone tell you differently.

As for an update on the running front, Tom and I are registered to run the 12th Annual Silver Comet Half Marathon on October 27.  It will be my second half marathon, Tom's first.  It is a mostly flat course (thank goodness) so it will be a great first half marathon for Tom and I am planning for a PR (hopefully will be easy to do considering I only have one time to beat, HA)!  Training has been good this time around.  I've been running only outdoors (unless it's been storming- I value my life too much to risk getting struck my lightening) which is entirely the opposite of my training for the Publix Half in March; I trained mostly indoors for that which made the race more difficult in deailng with the hills and weather.  Tom and I are training separately thanks to our very different work schedules, but that's okay.  While I would love to have a training buddy, I'm okay with doing solo long runs.  I can check my pace, my breathing, my stride and not have to worry about keeping up with anyone else.  I'm not saying they're easy long runs (are they ever?) but I still find them enjoyable.  I love walking through the front door knowing I've just run 7, 9, 10+ miles.  It's a good sense of accomplishment.  I do have a VERY long run this weekend.  I'll be participating in the ATL 20K (yes, that's 12.4 miles) and the only reason I signed up for the 20K in lieu of the 10K was because of the distance.  It fits almost perfectly into my training plan.  The 12 miler isn't technically due up til next weekend, but I may as well do it this weekend and get a medal out of it!  More to come on those results later!

I know some of you may be tired of me going on and on and on about my running ventures, but running has become something about which I'm extremely passionate!  Going through the struggles we've had over the years (job changes, Tom's addiction, etc.), it's become a great stress outlet and it keeps me sane.  I clear my head and start fresh!  They always say the hardest part of running is the first step out the front door.  I couldn't agree more and I'm incredibly grateful for God giving me the physical ability to participate in something I have grown to love so much and for allowing me to be able to take that first step out the front door.

Run on!

Britt!