We recently learned that a family friend has been diagnosed with cancer. In an email exchange, he ended the correspondence with "Live, Laugh, Love ... Be Well." I absolutely loved his message and it just resonated with me. I'm adopting it as my life motto. So, in thinking abut how I can incorporate my new life motto into my running routine, I made a conscious decision to enjoy running and to appreciate that I'm able to do it.
I also made another significant change to my running ... I added a little bit of Justin Timberlake, Michael Franti, and Billy Idol (don't judge my selections, just trust me on this one). Why didn't I think of this three runs ago? It made such a difference! No wonder I was running 15 minute miles! I just needed some music to increase my speed. Running while listening to music keeps me distracted from focusing on the numbers and I have proof. On Tuesday, I ran/walked 2.39 miles in 34 minutes and tonight I ran/walked 3.15 miles in 45 minutes. I had to make myself stop (okay, maybe that is a bit of an exaggeration, but I was able to run longer).
Despite Adam's initial reluctance to running, he is really impressing me. That boy looks like Forrest Gump on the treadmill (I mean that as a compliment). Tonight, I impressed myself by discovering that I'm able to run and dance at the same time. If you've seen me in action, then you know that I am literally incapable of combing any other motor tasks with running. I'm unable to talk and run at the same time or look over at Adam and run at the same time, but it all changed when I started dancing on the treadmill. I danced "Eldorado style", meaning I shook my hips a bit and threw one hand up in the air. It just felt so natural. Adam says that "it was a sight to be seen" (I took it as a compliment).
In other news, Adam and I will be running our first 5k in North Kansas City on March 20. This race was chosen for three reasons: it's run on a flat course, it's near the Oak Tree (Adam calls this place a hidden treasure in North Kansas City ) and we get to run it with our friends, Curtis and Ryan. My goal is to run the "Snack Chase" without stopping to walk. With the right playlist, I think I can do it.
Live, Laugh, Love ... Be Well!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I like that saying a lot! Something good to try and think about every day.
ReplyDeleteI frequently think about how much I dislike running, and the fact that I should just appreciate the fact that I CAN run, when so many people can't. It is a really good thing to remember when your sitting like a lump on the couch :)
Also I LOVE running with music, I can't imagine running without it. Some people are running purists and feel that you should just enjoy the environment you're in and listen to nature.(or I guess the gym sounds?) I feel that music enhances your run and like you said helps you keep pace. You will find there are some awesome songs to run to, and will make you energized and want to keep running. Have fun!
By the way I find it funny that your first race has "snack" in the title. I like it :) 5k's are actually fun.
Oops, I did type "Snack" when it's actually "Snake" ... you can tell what I'm thinking about. I can't wait to see you on Friday! It's getting so close!
ReplyDeleteOh snake! I was wondering what you would do on a "snack" run anyway? Do you get to eat along the way? Do they have snack's when you finish? Is it like Survivor and you have to stop and eat gross snacks along the way to finish? Hmmm... that would be yucky!
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see you too! Anabelle is VERY excited, I tell her about it every day.