I did it!

This morning, I rolled out of bed at 7, got dressed, cued up my Ipod and headed out for a jog around Robinson Barracks. My goal lately is to push myself harder, get fit -- and not remain satisfied with the thought, "Oh, ran my 2 miles this morning, I'm good to go." I've been running on the treadmill for months now, but it is SUPER hard to push myself on the treadmill. Yes, I can adjust my time, run some sprints, even add some incline. However, it is SOOOO boring. And lately, with no AC in the house and rising temps outside, it is SUPER hot!!

So, I'm moving outside, where in the early morning or late evening -- there is a BREEZE. Yes, have to deal with the serious inclines around here -- but that is good conditioning, right! And when I'm running outside, my pace is quicker and I don't notice the passing of time. It paid off this morning. I ran the "RB loop" and when I got back to the base, I felt so good that I ran it again! I know there are people who run faster than me. Yes, there are people who run farther. But I was pretty proud of my 5 miles today!

Seems like the older I get, the more I love a good challenge. Maybe I just want to prove to myself that I've still "got it" ... or maybe I love the adrenilin rush of an accomplished goal. I also love that I am teaching my kids to believe they can do whatever they set their minds to do. "I can't" just won't work in this house! Mostly, I am grateful to the Lord for giving me the ability to use my legs ... push myself ... and enjoy a quiet, early morning run in beautiful Stuttgart, Germany! Thanks, Lord. We did it! (I'm hoping to be ready to participate with several friends in a half-marathon in October if all works out schedule-wise ... I'll keep you updated!!!)