Run, Cheryl! Run!

Lately I have been lamenting the fact that I stopped running. Most of you already know this, but I used to be a runner. For two years, while in seminary, I actually enjoyed running. I ran at least 4 times a week and my favorite and most frequent route was 6 miles long. In April '06, I ran a half-marathon in 1:45. I know that it's not anything to brag about... and I hope it doesn't come across as bragging... its just that now I can hardly run 2 miles without wanting to die. It is so discouraging.

While at Covenant, I had blocks of time between classes or after work to run and explore the roads and neighborhoods around the campus. There were some really big houses, beautiful churches, pretty fields and woods for me to enjoy while I talked with God and solved all of the world's problems in my mind (and mine too.)

I had a lot going on during that point in my life and I know that running helped me to get through it without crumbling under stress.

I really think it is time for me to give it another try. Yes, I know it is the end of January and we are still having highs in the 20s. Great timing, huh.

One bonus of my job is that there is a fitness center literally across the hall from my office. So, I cannot use the weather as an excuse anymore. I have a date with the treadmill tonight after I get off of work . My goal is to run 2 miles every other day for two weeks. Hopefully my boys won't be using the fitness center at the same time. But, that would definitely give me motivation to keep running when it hurts and to go faster. (I'm so prideful!)

I'm writing this post with the hope that I will stick to my plan since other people now know about it. I'll let you know how it goes.