After "taking a break" while traveling, etc. getting back to where I was with my running has been a lot harder than I anticipated! It shouldn't come as a surprise to me though - I read plenty of running magazines and articles that talk about it. I just hadn't really experienced it for myself. Now I know - breaks are SO not worth it.
If I'm being honest, I've also been struggling with my motivation. My goal/resolution at the beginning of 2014 was to run in a race/event every month this year to keep me going and keep me motivated and inspired. So far, so good. I'm running in Pat's Run (www.patsrun.com) this coming weekend with my sister and I couldn't be happier to run with her for the first time. I've signed up for three more half marathons this year, and a 10k next month and that leaves four openings for easier/fun events. I'm happy to be sticking to my resolution, but at the same time feeling blah about training and running...
I've recently joined a couple of Facebook groups that focus on running - one local, one national and that's helping a little. Seeing other's accomplishments, struggles, questions. I've also done a couple of virtual runs to raise money for charities, and that always feels good. I guess I'm just feeling more like "I can't" than "I can" lately.
Watching the Boston Marathon this morning was pretty amazing though. To see those elite runners gliding along as if 26.2 miles was just a jaunt through the park on a normal day. And the pace they were keeping! Amazing! It did make me realize I can do more. I just need to push myself and believe in myself. Maybe someone watching me run some time this year will be inspired to do the same - you just never know. So here's to getting back on track :)
~ Courtney
