Running While Teary

Today is cold and rainy, I didn't sleep well and it's the perfect day to stay in bed.  Mr. Running While Mommy even offered to get the kids off to school and let me sleep.  As tempting as it was, I declined.  I have a run and some weights on the schedule today and I am sticking to it. 

I did my warm-up and got on the treadmill.  Nice and easy to start, and I found my groove quickly.  I was happy when I saw my friend KJ, and was hoping she would hop on the ’mill next to me, but her little one had other plans.  

I got to talk to her a few minutes though and was happy that I was able to hold a conversation and not have to stop and catch my breath.

At two miles, I was feeling really good and at that moment I knew I was going for four miles, not three.  One of the things that motivated me today was listening to an interview with Bart Yasso.  

Up until today, I knew very little about him and now I want to know everything.  He is a very down to earth person, who genuinely wants to know about you and why you are running.  By the end of the interview, I wanted to hug him.

One of the questions that was asked was about choosing your first marathon or half marathon.  He said to choose one that is exotic and fun, one that will make people say, "Oh, that sounds awesome" and want to know more about it.  

This made me feel good, as my first half is the Nike Women's Marathon and it is going to be exotic and fun, with tons of excitement.  There are plenty of women who want to do this race, and this year, I am one of the lucky ones who will be there.  I look forward to sharing that experience with you.

At mile four, I slowed to a walk, happy with myself for reaching my goal.  I walked for a half mile and then felt the need for speed.  Let me be clear, by speed, I mean faster than walking.  I started to run at a slightly faster pace and am happy to say, I did one more mile.  Five miles today, friends!

Here is what you need to know about me.  I cry at sad movies and hallmark commercials.  I have cried at every milestone my children have reached.  I cry when I am happy, when I am overwhelmed.  I fight when there is something worth fighting for and sometimes cry in the process.  

Today, I was so happy that I got teary.  Yup, I had to control my tears because I saw the number five on the treadmill.  Can you say girl?

I am not ashamed, I am proud.  I am a girl and crying does not make me weak.  It just shows how passionate I am when it come to the things and people I love, the things that are worth fighting for.  I have worked hard every day and it is paying off. 

So yes, I am woman, hear me roar!

Run strong, think big!