The First of 2016

And so it's here... the dawn (or a few days later) of the new year is upon us! I closed 2015, in sneakers and fleece lined tights, alongside Pina on a brisk 3 mile run around one of our favorite towns. I closed 2014 the same way, however I remember we started earlier in the morning, and the falling snow was somewhat blinding. We drugged down the canal path with the help of our headlamps, wishing for it to end as soon as possible.  

This NYE run was different.  We ran "our route" through a town that we've grown accustomed to. During this past year we've been able to explore all the hidden hills that Spencerport holds, right off Main street.  Pina and I have learned where we need to go if we need to add extra miles, even if it's a quick loop or two around the school track. We've stumbled upon the cutest little track of homes that could be mistaken for the set of "The Truman Show" and have yet another year of random conversations. I couldn't think of a better person to share so many miles with.

Not only did Pina stand beside me, but I was able to grow closer to a few girls who were right there with me along the way... while they achieved their own personal goals as well.  I hope they know how inspiring each and everyone of them are. #carrie #moogle #gina #pippa 

Towards the end of 2015, I held myself back. I got hurt a few times and truly became a bit scared, especially in the trail scene. I let my insecurities, and let's face it, my day to day schedule come in between me and my running.  The past few runs this week have shown to prove this, along with a touch of distance I have felt with these friends I've experienced so much with.

So, as I sit here, looking at the Pittsburgh Half Marathon Training Plan, along with my daily fitness activity calendar, I am beyond stoked!   I'm more excited than when I had my first half marathon to conquer, more determined to make this year even better! There are some of the same races on the calendar such as Seneca 7... (we are chafing the dream, again!) and new ones including the upcoming Winter Warrior Relay.  This time I won't spectate Pittsburgh (#gameon), but run alongside so many amazing athletes and friends for 13.1 miles. The icing on top is the Segahunda Relay, and the goal is to kick it's butt and then continue to keep to a schedule.  Yes, I may need another race to keep me accountable.  At this point, I have nothing scheduled, but am excited to see what I can fill it with.  I plan to grow confidence (and ankle joint strength) in my trail running.  

I know this is going to be a challenge, but it's all part of the climb.  This song "The Climb" always seems to snap me back into focus... and hearing it over the past few months has been helpful.  Again, the emotions the song lyrics are able to evoke, excited me.  And now, I'm ready.

I absolutely hate how cliche it is to have all these hopes and dreams at the start of the year.... I really do.  But, who cares. All I know is that I'm ready. Today, was my first run of 2016.  And like I said before, I sure felt the lack of endurance I know I once had, along with other things I need to work on. Getting acclimated with the colder temps, working on speed and pace is just a start.  However, 5 miles with Melinda happened. And now I'm able to cross that off my schedule, hope that I got a smidgen stronger, and look forward to the many more miles I'll log in 2016.

Happy New Year!!