Friday, April 30, 2010

Staying Strong

This year so far has been different in many ways but one thing that stands out in my mind is this new found passion for running that my spouse has found. There are only a few hours in the evening really when Carl and I are home at the same time. There are piano lessons, scouts, homework, dinner and the constant juggle to keep the littlest of the three contentedly happy. Even with bills to pay, doctor and therapy updates and various non-desirable topics to discuss with Carl, I've found our conversations constantly directed to our common interest of running.... when we're not running that is:) Yes, it's true. Runners really are a boring bunch- if you ask a non-runner. My observations conclude that while running, runners will talk about anything but running. When not running, all we want to talk about is running.

Personally, I think it annoys the heck out of a lot of people but you know what- I don't really care! Carl and I have found something in common. It may have taken 12 years to find it but that just makes it even better. The other day one of the boys said, "When you two are together all you talk about is running". We tried to explain that it definitely wasn't true that we talk about the boys when we are alone, our church callings, home stuff, etc. However, we tried to explain how important it is to have something in common with a spouse in order to keep your relationship strong.

My constant chatter about running... distance, times and splits, strategy, training programs etc. is mostly limited to those who I know or think may be interested which basically involves only others who run.

This year has been different in other ways too! While I have kept details regarding every run, I have not added it all together. I don't know how much I run every week, month, nor have I kept a running total for the year. Did that last year and it was a lot of fun but this year I'm trying to stay in tune with my body. Looking at the totals on paper makes me want to get out and do more regardless of looming injuries or whatnot which is not a healthy way to do things.

March was my first 1/2 Marathon in almost a year. I went down to Moab with some friends, five of us, and we ran the 1/2. Due to different paces and goals we all ran separately but the trip was spectacular. Can't wait to do it again next year. I wasn't really nervous this time. I didn't know what to expect with the course and so I didn't set any time goals. I actually think that may have helped me have a better run. I kept the pace constant only stopping for water/gatorade and walked away with a PR (1:46:42).

Next on the schedule: Ogden 1/2 Marathon- May 15th!
Oh, and cross your fingers for me... I'm really hoping to get in on the St. George lottery.

4 comments:

  1. Wow Mel! That is impressive! Great job! and that it's pretty cool that your husband has jumped into the running wagon. I hope I can say that one day. Someone told me to give it time and that it usually happens. How long did it take for your husband to start running? or how long have you been running? Just so that I have and idea and something to look forward to :) Again, awesome job on your new PR!

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  2. Sarai- I didn't get serious about running until two years ago. Before that I would run a 5k here or there but nothing more than that. My husband didn't get the running bug until about a year ago. He is doing the grand slam this year... 4 marathons during the summer. I guess its all or nothing for some people;

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  3. good luck with the lottery.
    great blog

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  4. Hey Mel, nice meeting you today at the 10K. Thanks for coming up and saying hi :). I love meeting new runners. It is great that you and hubby run. My kids say the same about us--especially the part about races. Usually when we go away for the weekend, they ask "what race are you doing?" hehehe. Anyways, good luck next week :). Hubby and I will be there doing the full.

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