Getting to Know Me

Calling myself a runner still doesn't feel quite right, but I guess that's what I am now. I fell into it quite by accident, or, better stated, by ego. I truly have believed for most of my life that I hate running...and I sort of still do, which is why "runner" seems so inappropriate. How can I attach a label to myself that connects me so closely with something I despise?

Prior to this year, I cannot recall a time in my adult life when I ran a full mile. I was the kid who was always trying to get out of PE because I didn't want to run. It was not until a fateful day in June of this year when a nurse at the hospital where I work approached me and said, "Are you going to run the Big Sur Half Marathon with me in November?" I think my initial reply was something along the lines of, "Are you insane?" But she persisted and over the course of several minutes got the wheels in my head spinning. Soon she broke out her most compelling argument, "It's really easy; I did it a couple of weeks after delivering my first baby," and that's when my ego got the best of me. Hell, if she could run 13 miles after delivering a baby, certainly I, childless as I am, could do it.

Initially, my hope was just to survive that one race. Then a friend encouraged me to run another half marathon in October. Having just completed that one, I'm not sure that 13 miles is a big enough challenge anymore, and I've registered for a full marathon in a few months. I still hate running, but seeing myself meet seemingly impossible goals is quite addicting. And as much as I hate it, I like the changes I've seen in myself: more energy, lower anxiety, and a more svelte physique. I don't see myself slowing down, so I guess it's time to give in and accept my new label.

Why a blog? I am approaching this new hobby through a lot of trial and error...which has led to both the thrill of victory and, more often, the agony of defeat (and de-legs and de-back). I hope to be able to share some of the lessons I am learning. I also hope that my story can inspire others to try something new. Seriously, if I can do it, so can you.