Balance

As one can probably tell, I speak a lot of balance. It is the thing I personally try the hardest in my life to keep in check. It is also one of life's biggest struggles. Running to me is a privledge, and if one lets it get out of balance it will no longer be that. It is a release, almost euphoric at times, and a great way to spend time each day. It is what Tony Robbins, whom I listen to often for motivation calls the "hour of power" (or hour(s) as we run longer). It gives us time to process daily life, past experiences and future plans. It is a chance to meet great people, and for me that includes someone I have grown into a fantastic relationship with, something I could've NEVER expected. Without the run I know I would be lost. I am thankful everyday that I have it in my life for these and many other reasons. With the external negative stimuli that surrounds us these days it is hard to not give in and allow ourselves to enjoy what we love to do as it takes time away from focusing on the challenges life gives us. Thus lies the paradox, as the run provides us the release we need to tackle the challenges with greater piece of mind.....

Running Farther

As with anything we do, the chance to do it better, longer or more often comes into play. We become consumed with the things we love to do and sometimes let them get out of balance with the rest of our lives. Running can fall into this category very easily as it is a fantastic release and an enormous endorphin rush. There aren't many better feelings than the satisfaction of a great run. As we get accustomed to the miles the nature is to want to go farther. For me, I have made a vow to increase the miles only as I am confident my mind and body are ready. I am very excited to say that I am ready for the real ultras and the thought of really long races is stirring heavily in my mind. I am still committed, however to making sure that my running desires stay just that and not another "have to".......

What it Takes

Been pondering the "training" question lately as I had signed up for a 50 miler which has since cancelled due to course problems. There are tons of places to find information, and tons of different opinions about what to run, how fast, how far, and how much rest is required. One could get VERY lost in the information overload. I hope I am right in that sticking with what works is the best way to try something new. In my limited experience, the journey is the most important part of life, and in this journey, keeping it fun is the most critical to not getting injured, not burning out, and maintaining excitement up to and for race day. I came to the conclusion that while I may add a few more miles and extra strength training, it is going to stay fun no matter what! We do this for enjoyment, and it could easily become a second job, or a "have to". No thanks, it's very much a "WANT TO"!

Holiday Weeks

What a great two weeks of running, Crossfit, and family. Today went on a fantastic 3 hour run with Alvin, Joe and one of the best trail running women in Washington, Monica Ochs. What an honor to have such fantastic running company to enjoy this wonderful sport. I feel very fortunate.

2008

What can I say that expresses the sheer joy of how 2008 took shape. Better than I could've planned or dreamed of is the only logical comment. In a nutshell: (not in any kind of order by the way) I have found a niche in running I hope to cultivate as time goes on into a lifelong passion, maybe go farther, maybe faster, maybe more, maybe less, maybe just as it is right now as there is no question that I truly enjoy it.

I have met the man of my dreams. I have learned to see the world around me and take it in instead of just passing through. I have grown VERY close to my wonderful parents as friends and a daughter. I have great people to work with who value what we have all built in a company. I have great health, both mentally and physically today. I am able to enjoy the fruits of my labor in past years when my life's meaning was work. It has enabled me to live life easier today. I have developed some great friendships this year that I know will last a lifetime. I have learned about Faith in its most basic form.

Most of all, I have learned that to be, just be sometimes is to live. What a privilege!

To 2009!