Longest Run

My breathing has returned to normal. My hips and knees are regaining elasticity.  My sweat-dampened shirt now feels chilly in this air-conditioned room.  A few minutes ago I completed the longest run of my life. Ten miles. 

I plan to break this record twice during the next two weekends, as I complete my training for the Helvetia Half Marathon on June 13th.  But this run was significant to me because before it, 9.3 was the highest number of miles I had logged in a single run, and that was accomplished when I was about 19 years old.   For two consecutive years, I ran a beautiful 15k race along the Historic Columbia River Highway.  The race takes place at dusk, beginning just above Crown Pointe and winding down the scenic highway to Multnomah Falls.  I had not returned to running faithfully until this past fall.  So over the past 10 months I have been gradually improving my endurance and strength, ultimately surpassing that milestone of my youthful fitness this very evening.

I know my marathon-running friends will still be proud of my 10 miles, even though they ran 26.2 miles yesterday.  And I am still proud of my 10 miles, even if I didn't come close to shattering any speed records.  I averaged an 11:00 pace tonight, but two days ago I ran five miles at a 9:40 pace.  So during my shorter runs I am increasing speed.  In case you don't want to get out your calculator, this means I ran for an hour and 50 minutes tonight!  Sigh. I'm not sure if I can keep up this running gig. It is so damn time consuming! 

Speaking of which, I must resign myself to the fact that my lifestyle is not conducive to being a regular blogger. If I worked full time but had no children, I could fit it in. If I was a mother without a business to run, I could fit it in. Maybe if I chose to give up exercise, I could fit it in, but that ain't never gonna happen.  I actually have copious ideas for blog posts...but for me, writing requires quiet and focus. With a 2-year-old around, those do not exist in unison.  In the limited moments without a 2-year-old around, I have to be a mature adult and put my work first. The good news is, my little munchkin starts preschool this fall! Surely those extra hours of "freedom" each day will afford me a little bit of time to devote to you, my legions of doting followers. I can't believe how quickly that day is approaching, and I am thrilled for her. I think Madelyn will love the experience, and I believe we have chosen an outstanding school.  More on this will likely be forthcoming.

There is something very special about accomplishing something for the first time or breaking a personal record, like my 10.0 miles tonight.  What is your record-breaking story?