It feels so odd to say this (after all these years of blogging) but I’m finding it really hard to come up with words (that make sense) to introduce myself and explain why I run!
I’m known around ‘these parts’ as JP, but I really do have a name (Jill). I have a husband. I have two daughters (ages 11 and 6). I have a blue stripe in my hair.
I’m known around ‘these parts’ as JP, but I really do have a name (Jill). I have a husband. I have two daughters (ages 11 and 6). I have a blue stripe in my hair.
I’ve lived in Northern California (Sacramento area) all of my life. I am a weather wimp and reading about several of you running in snow makes me question your sanity. (Kidding!) Not to mention the fact that all of my training is done at about 25 feet above sea level (Hello, Wasatch Mountains!) so I guess that means I’m an altitude wimp also. (I do believe I’ve just found my “call-sign” for this relay. Exciting!) You also might notice that this is an introduction to my sarcasm as well. And, well…I am sorry for that. (I know. I should come with a warning.)
I am, relatively, new to running. I believed for many years that I hated running…that I was terrible at running. Then, a couple of years ago, I made it bigger than me. I trained for a cause very near and dear to my heart thinking that I would be one of the walkers. Partway through my training I tried a little running…just to see how I liked it. To push myself a little. Wonder of wonders, miracle of miracles: I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT. Crossing the finish line of my first half marathon (my first event of any kind) was one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. I was blown away by a feeling that can’t really be put into words.
Running is not easy for me. I struggle. But I think its because of these struggles that I’ve learned more about myself than I ever though possible. Like many of you, running is my therapy – my form of meditation. I am a better person when I run. A better person with more confidence and discipline and a sense of accomplishment.
This year, I have quite the running agenda: A couple ½ marathons, Wasatch Relay…all leading up to my very first (full) marathon in October 2009! (I feel slightly faint every time I type that.) I am so excited and scared and, well, excited. But I love that I can be an example for my daughters. It is my hope that they will see that they are capable, strong and amazing. I want them to experience this feeling of empowerment that comes from accomplishing the big goals…and all the little goals that lead up to it.
I am counting down the days to Wasatch. I can’t wait to be stuck in a van with all of you amazing Marathon Mommies. It’s gonna be awesome.
