Finally!

Geez, this took long enough but I think I have finally broken through the wall that was standing in front of me for a while. Or at least the first wall since I am sure there will be more. Today at around 7:30 on a very cold (37 degrees) sunny morning I started out on a very difficult run. I was going 8 miles for the first time ever and I was going on a course that is known for having hellish hills. I was so fortunate to have the fearless leader of both the moms group and running groups I belong to running with me this morning. Granted she was sick, which was no good, but it worked out for me since she was in the mood for a slower run. I have to say I am excellent for anyone who wants to slow it down. Cory was so great with encouraging words and helpful tips. Goodness it was hard at times and I really wanted to stop but I didn't. I made it through what as to me the hardest course yet without walking once and made it up a hill that I was informed barely 1 in 3 people make up without walking, and I did it TWICE. Hell. Yeah. I am so crazy proud of myself. I feel more now like I really can run a half marathon (which I have yet to register for but still...) and that yes, indeed, I AM A RUNNER. I read a funny quote this morning that actually meant a lot to me. It said "There is no "Y" in running." I have been questioning a lot lately why I was running. What was it doing for me. Part of my problem was in January I stopped taking my thyroid as per doctors orders to see if I actually needed to be on it. Well, apparently I do. Since January I have noticed I'm tired more and more when I have no reason to be, my hair is falling out and oh yeah, I've gained 15 pounds or so. Even with running an average of 10-15 miles a week and even giving up candy and soda for lent, I'm still gaining weight. Ok, now I feel like I am all over the place but the main point is I feel like I have broken through my recent wall and I feel good. I feel pretty damn awesome actually. I think the most important thing I learned today was a motto that my runner guru has recently adopted herself. If you can't smile while doing something, you shouldn't be doing it. So true.