Friends, I did it.
I feel so accomplished.
This morning, for the first time ever, I ran 6 straight miles.
That’s a 10k!
(I think “10k” sounds much more impressive, don’t you?)
You may remember me asking if you thought it was possible for me to run 6 miles.
Many of you encouraged me.
Somewhere within me I knew I could do it.
It was a mental game.
One of which I was scared to death (not literally).
The thought of running for an HOUR was extremely frightening to me.
Why? I don’t know.
But it was daunting.
I was so comfortable with my little 5k paths.
But last week I started challenging myself.
Changing my route.
Not being afraid of going longer than 3 miles.
Venturing out into the 4 mile field.
And I was surprised to find that I felt invigorated.
Excited about it, even!
(that’s another exciting–at least for me–story for another day)
I decided to channel my courage.
I asked if he thought I could make the 6 mile round trip run to Sara’s house and back.
He said “definitely” without any hesitation.
“Just take it at a little bit of a slower pace than you usually do.”
So this morning, at 6:30am,
I laced up my shoes,
grabbed my cell phone,
and said, “I’m doing it.
I’m running to Kyle and Sara’s–
just so you know where to find me if you have to scrape me off the asphalt.”
(I really did say that.)
And off I went.
I started off breathing more heavily than usual.
It was nerves.
I was starting to psych myself out.
But somewhere along the way–probably on that first seemingly endless hill on US12–
I settled into a groove.
And I actually enjoyed the rest of the run.
I stopped for 2 minutes at the half way point just to be sure I could make it back–
another 3 miles.
Wow.
I did it.
Over the countless hills.
(It’s really hilly in these parts.)
And despite my fear.
I accomplished a goal.
And I already have one of my best friend’s mom challenging me to train for a half marathon and then a full.
She says if she can do it at her age, I can definitely handle it.
The fear is already creeping in as I type.
I think I’ll take the challenges slowly.
But this time I believe I can do it!
someday.
you are an inspiration :)
That's awesome! You go! You're a better woman than me :)
that is so awesome! YEAH FOR YOU!!! I worked out tonight for the first time in a few months. hoping my body can handle it… I so badly want to get working out again! great job!
Stumbled across your blog today, and browsed around, I am in love with your honest and sweet writing style. I admire your dedication to running! Congratulations on your accomplishment! -healthyinheels.blogspot.com
Congratulations, Mel!