Run, Steph Run!

A few years back I decided to become a runner. I had heard that it was a great way to lose weight and relieve stress so I bought some running shoes, a not-Pod, some snazzy running socks, and then set off on my merry way. Running, here I come! Despite the laughs and disbelief from Jay, I knew this was my new mission.

Two days later I gave up. Why didn't anyone tell me that running was [gulp] hard?

Last summer I pulled out my running shoes and gave it another try. I had heard about the Couch to 5K program and was intrigued by the testimonials from people who had done it, how they literally went from couch potatoes to all-out runners in just weeks. Jay again laughed but after I successfully worked the program for a week he joined me and viola... within a few months we were both... well, not runners really, but definitely joggers. Jay was even committed enough to buy his OWN not-Pod and running watch (or he was tired of using my hot pink ones…) And we kept up with running at least a few times a week until winter got in the way.

Now that it's springtime we can finally hit the road again. And to help me stay motivated I signed up for Building Steam, an 11-week training program that helps runners and walkers prepare for the Steamboat Classic 4 Mile Race in Peoria. I had heard about this program for the past few years but was never brave enough to sign up for it – this year I decided to finally do it. Alongside me are my friends Jenny, Erin, and Robert.

To keep me motivated at home I signed Jay up for the race too. When I let him know he said, “Did you sign me up for the training program too?” When I said no (because, duh, he needs to watch the kids!) he said, “No big deal. I’ll still totally beat you in the race without the training.”

Ah, nothing like a little competition to keep a girl motivated!