This quote arrived in my email inbox from Runner’s World this Thursday evening, and at first made me chuckle… Then I thought, you know, this is really true. I love getting out and running and looking at the world around me. I people-watch, see wildlife, photograph this beautiful city I have the great pleasure of living in, and sing songs in my head to my heart’s desire (or out loud, depending on how many miles I have covered and if I’m getting that runner’s high … There’s a possibility that I can pass for a crazy person after 12 miles; a happy, smiling, singing crazy person, but … a little different nonetheless).
It’s funny to sit here and know that in about 36 hours I will be on my way running 26.2 miles. I feel like I am in denial that I will be doing this race at all this time around. Maybe because the circumstances surrounding last year’s St. George race really did not start off well (story here: Marathoner), and this time my Grandpa is going to do the race with me. Which is fantastic! The weather in Newport will be a perfect 50 degrees, not raining, cloudy with sun… What more could a Portland girl want?
I know with everything that I am, that I will run faster than I did in Utah seven months ago. I still claim to not have a goal pace, although I do think that 4:40 finishing time is my new target. And while this clocks in at a whole half hour faster than my previous marathon (I think) I am pretty sure I have it in me. Regardless, I go forth into the unknown of this race, without expectation or need for a specific outcome. Because I still want to have fun (and take pictures!).
I run to finish with enthusiasm and joy for the sport! I do think that there may be a turning point when my ego is inclined to begin racing rather than allow me to run and enjoy, and I am grateful that I have not yet reached that point.
Do you run in organized events to race? Or is it a run for fun with thousands of your peers? Has your point of view changed?
Happy Running!
~Alaina
You DO have it in you! And those weather conditions are stinking perfect. The stage is set. Now go get ’em! I’ll be rooting for you!!!! 🙂
Thank you! 🙂
Best wishes tomorrow, Alaina! We should have some great weather conditions. I’ll be cheering for you!
I’ll be cheering for you, too! I’ll keep my eye out for you out there! 🙂