Committed 2008

Since my very first blog posting, I've been designing posts in my mind.... as you may have noticed there have been a couple of months that have passed since my first (and last : ) blog. That pretty much symbolically defines me: lots of intellectualizing, not much action.

Ok, we can dwell on the shortcomings or we can acknowledge the high points: let's take the high road!

About 3 weeks ago, I read a Doug Kurtis article in the Detroit Free Press about this year's marathon. I've thought seriously about running this (my hometown) marathon since I was crazy fit in 2005 thanks to a friend that introduced my to adventure racing. I should have run it then when I was in shape and mentally tough, but I ended up chickening out when I didn't have anyone who would be my support. I was just too intimidated to go all by myself: what would I do with my car keys and pre-race clothes. Oh yeah and the weather folks said it was supposed to rain. I could have done the Friday night walk up registration (I was working downtown for heaven's sake), but wimped out and had a pity party instead. Race day when I peeked out my windows it was slightly overcast, I rolled back over for a little more sleep, confident that the skys would soon be opening up, and I could feel justified in not running the race. Three hours later, round about when I might have been finishing, I peeked out my window again... and it was a beautiful clear, sunny, not humid day. RATS! I should have run!

So fast forward almost 3 years later, and I still haven't run. Oh, and yeah, I've gotten married, had a baby, gained almost 60 pounds and there it is... the Detroit Marathon challenging me. Doug Kurtis encouraging me. My inner voice tweaking me.

I found a 16 week training plan (17 1/2 weeks from the event). I've registered -- spending the $70 I don't really have to piss away, and I'm in -- fully committed. I even did a couple of pre-training plan runs. They were good mental challenges. Could I keep my commitment? Could I run when I didn't really want to (did I tell you I absolutely LOATHE running)? Yup and yup.

It's all been really empowering. When I toughed out my first "1 hour run," I kept arguing with myself. I don't want to. I can't. I'm not ready. The real me replying, "not backing down. I can do this. Just 10 minutes more." When I was finished, I was so proud of myself.

Yesterday was my first "16 week" marathon training plan run. I almost used a prior commitment to visit a friend as my out to not do my workout, but I hung tough and did my run. The weather was beautiful at 8 in the morning, low 60s. A good run with my Airedale!

Check out my run on Google Maps.



Woo Hoo Baby! Just like 2008 -- NO EXCUSES.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I DIG DEEP and get through this and enjoy the rewards for my investment and commitment.