Ready, ready, ready, ready, ready to RUN!

Two years ago, I ran my first 10k - the Cooper River Bridge Run in Charleston.

I can still remember making it to the top of the bridge and seeing the peach sorbet sunrise over the water. I took out one of my earphones so I could hear the noise that was made by those thousands of footsteps; it was surprisingly quiet. Methodical. Purposeful.

The pack of people stretched as far as I could see in both directions. Everyone had a common goal. Brightly colored t-shirts made a dazzling patchwork quilt that covered the road ahead and behind. I was drinking in, trying to store my first 10k in my long term memory.

On Saturday I will run this race again, and I absolutely cannot wait to be at the top of that bridge.


Some people think it's crazy that I actually enjoy running. But I really have developed a passion for it. Here's why:

1. It gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don't kill their husbands. (Legally Blonde, anyone??)
2. No one can take my miles away.
3. I love the feeling of being good and sore, knowing my body has been worked and is getting stronger for it.
4. Running is one time of the day when I am doing something just for me.
5. I am really, truly focused and am intent on reaching a goal. I love pushing myself just to see how far I can go.
6. Races are just plain fun. Plus you get cool t-shirts. It's true when they say that people will do anything for a t-shirt.
7. The runner's high is no joke. I go into overdrive in the last couple tenths of a mile and feel kinda tingly all over. I feel powerful, like a locomotive. Nothing can stop me!
8. Running helps me de-stress. Teaching school is a very stress-filled job, so this is incredibly beneficial.
9. My pants fit better. Obvi.
10. Running is an automatic excuse to eat carbs. Going for a long run? Better grab a bagel. Is this contrary to #9? I think not.

Now I know:
The time it takes me to run the race is not as important as enjoying the time it takes to get to the finish line.