Though the cold weather continues to pepper itself in amongst the sunny days and rainy afternoons, spring is making a definite return and I could not be more excited for the lingering warmth.  As the weather transitions, my habits shift and like a bear cub waking from hibernation, I’m out from my condo hiding place and am anxiously awaiting the end of this never ending winter.

 During these past few weeks, I’ve been outdoors, rain or shine, and like clockwork, my athletic aspirations are in full force.  Last year, I set a goal to run 5k in 30mins or less.  With the combination of my asthma + difficulty to focus during self led workouts + my general dislike for running, this was quite the challenge; perhaps more mental than physical.  I was a strict 5K runner and had no desire to run any longer than that distance.  In 1 month I reached my running goal and with satisfaction, I stopped running.   Along the same stubborn lines of my strict 5K runs I had no desire to enter any running events/races; until this year.  This year, in an attempt to prolong my conditioning, I’ve signed up for the Nike15K Women’s run; my first run EVER!

My goal is to log 3 runs a week leading up to race day and to complete the 15k in under 1hr + 50mins.  I am 2 weeks into training and so far so good.

As I live right by a waterfront trail, I have the luxury of open blue skies and calming waves to accompany me on each run.  However, with trails come running clubs and I do my best to not be intimidated by the swarms of brightly dressed packs running at a jaunty pace surrounding and over taking me.  

On every run, I take a photo souvenir; a memento for my handwork.  I’m feeding my Instagram habit while working on my stamina – a WIN WIN!

The following are the latest from my outdoor expeditions.

         …and with this post, I have put my running goals out there for all to read.  There’s no turning back now.

Wish me luck!