I started running three years ago. In fact, running the Nike Women’s Marathon this year marked my three year anniversary with running marathons. I’ve improved a bit since I started, I stopped hating it so much and learned to love sore muscles, blood blisters, missing toenails, random aches and pains, obsessing over diet and training methods, and having my friends in a constant state of never understanding this one passion of mine. Coupled with this, I’ve come to value the good tenfold: my running buddies, the way my body feels after a twenty mile run around town, eating all the time, being motivated and motivating others, and making so many new friends that do understand this crazy passion.



The past three years have been tough, I assume it has to do with aging into my late 20s, but I’m very thankful I’ve had the constant drum of the marathon to keep me steady as I grow into my ever changing life. After my first marathon, a good friend of mine snapped this photo. In it I’m walking towards him eating some yogurt. Someone had tapped a telephone to the pole and written on it, “It’s 4 u.” I understand that I can take symbolism to new dimensions, but this one is pretty obvious. Reflecting on the past three years, I have definitely learned that I became hooked that day I ran the Nike Women’s Marathon in 2006.

I’ve had time to reflect on the marathon and what it means to me in the past few months. Recently I’ve been toying with the idea of running the 26.2 a lot faster than I am right now. (Is it even possible?) I normally don’t let on what my plans are, but I figure this one is larger than me, and I’ll need some help, so why not let folks in on the secret – at least I’ll be held accountable, eh? Over the next few years I’d like to feel what it’s like to take the marathon seriously, not just in a respectful and humbling way (which I believe will stay with me from race to race) but in a challenging and motivating way. I don’t know where this will take me yet, but I’ve come to terms with the fact that as Caleb would say, my marathon game needs steppage. I have a few more races to finish out the year, and after that, keep your eyes peeled for the super sexy marathon training plan of 2010, and be sure to wish me luck! Many thanks to all those who have helped and will help inspire me to run far, run fast, and run often!