Get to steppin'

I bought some new running shoes a couple of days ago. They're cute (because that DOES matter) and they're comfy (that REALLY matters). I've been thinking about my shoes. They're just so new and pristine and white and unspoiled. And I just couldn't wait to put them on.

They call to me, my shoes. They say, "Lizzy, come run with me. Come, get out of the house, and run like the wind. Run like you used to, mile after mile. Run until everything is purged out of you and you feel like you're flying..."

You might not believe me, but that's what a good run feels like. It's the ultimate catharsis. It always sucks the first mile or two, but then some kind of happy drug takes over and your body just clicks into gear and you can run and run and run. It's amazing. You can feel how strong your body is and your mind will never be clearer as you look around at the beautiful scenery surrounding you.

A good run will remind you that God is in his heaven and all is right with the world.

Once upon a time I ran half marathons and 10Ks and Canyon races. I even did a triathlon, but hated the open water swim (especially when I found out that people had DROWNED in that ugly green murky thing they had the audacity to call a pond) and swore I'd never do another...nevertheless, running gives me a feeling of accomplishment and strength like nothing else I've ever done.

My goal for every race has always been the same: to finish. The feeling of accomplishment and triumph after crossing the finish line is indescribable: it's such a rush of adrenaline and triumph that you find yourself quickly looking for the next race so you can do it again.

I haven't run for over a year and I have missed it. Last night I stepped trepidatiously (is that a word? If it isn't, I just invented it) on the treadmill. I was much slower than I've ever been and I had to stop and walk twice...but I finished and I felt proud.


Me and my shoes got some work to do.

Comments

. said…
I think there's a Thanksgiving Day 5-miler with our names on it. Race you to the finish line!!
AD said…
See, I 've never gotten beyond the sucky 1st or 2nd mile. Maybe I should go for a nice 3-4 miler and see if I have the same euphoria you get.

Maybe not.

But I truly admire all of you runners and love that you are working hard at getting back to something you love.
Anaise said…
Sheesh! Do you even have permission from your doc to exercise yet? You had major surgery a few weeks ago!!!!

Way to go, ambitious woman.

My mom will probably really enjoy this post--she and I have been talking about all the family runners and wondering just what it is that makes you all train and compete and just keep running. I guess I should understand--being in water makes me feel like all is right with the world--I just haven't had a chance to swim kidless for years. :)

But, honestly, doesn't having given birth kind of compete with running for giving you a "sense of accomplishment and strength"?

Hope you and your shoes enjoy the work ahead.
Karina said…
I still have my mouth hanging open. I don't understand. How are you running this soon after having a baby? How is it that you can travel?!

I just can't believe how different each of our experiences are with childbirth! It's incredible! You're amazing!
Kandis said…
Running is definately a high that few things in life can replace. Props for putting the shoes back on!
Cade said…
Run Liz Run. The first step is always the hardest, but you don't run because you like it. It's something you do because you love how you feel after it's over. There are other activities that you can do that you can enjoy while your doing it. With running the pleasure comes after it's over.

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