Runnin'

I used to hate to run. And hate is a strong word, but I definitely meant it when I was describing how I felt about running. Now, that has changed. I absolutely love to run. It took many years patience and pushing through the tough parts of running, but I now feel as though I've met a level that I can call myself a runner.

Here are my reasons why I love running:

1) It is a great workout. Of course this seems like an obvious answer, but it's the truth. I love how I feel after a run. There is nothing else like knowing you've just ran however many miles and feel great. It's great for an all over workout that gets your heart rate up and your blood a pumpin'. :)

2) It is some sweet alone time or time with JC. When I run it's usually just me and Jesus. I tend to think a lot when I run and I often come up with many silly ideas about life as my feet trek down the trail. Running clears my head in a way and it also helps me pray and spend time with the Lord. It's sweet. Plus, you get to hang out in the beautiful outdoors for a bit.

3) The music is bumpin'. Seriously, when you run you have to find some sweet jams. I listen to anything and everything, but my favorite is to jsut straight up make a running playlist. That way you can have a mixture of whatever your little heart desires to keep you motivated.

4)Running is great for motivating yourself. It teaches you will yourself to keep going and push through. I especially love to sprint up hills because everytime you get to the top it is like overcoming some huge obstacle. Wow. It is such an independent sport that requires discipline and strength and it helps you mentally prepare yourself for other obstacles in life.

5)Let's face it: being outside is always better. Of course, I run on a tredmill when I have to, but everytime I get to go outside my heart rejoices! ;) God has created such a gorgeous planet for us to live on and take care of so why not spend some extra time outdoors?!

I'd be lying if I said that there is never a day that I don't want to run. That's a flat out lie. There are days when I do not feel like running at all. Though, that is true with every sort of work out for most people. I love to run, but some days I just lack motivation. It comes back eventually, though. (Thankfully ;])

Also, I just recently registered for my first official race! I will be running the 10k in Fargo in October with my good friend Koty. It's funny because I was thinking to myself one day how I really wanted to start running in races and then I looked on Facebook and Koty was asking if anyone wanted to join her in doing the 10k. Done! One of my goals is to eventually do a 1/2 marathon, but I figure that I will start with the 10k first :) So, let the journey of training for and running in races begin!