From a mental standpoint this has got to be the toughest winter of my life as far as running goes.
I just haven't "felt it"
But I seem to be snapping out of my funk albeit slower than usual.
That being said I also look forward to the 2014 running year more than those previous.
My involvement with Runwell has me very excited. I look forward to running in hopes of bringing awareness and hope in the fight against substance abuse.
I have to admit it is beautiful to run in though!!
This is the year of reevaluating what direction I want my life to head and taking the needed steps to make that happen. It has been too easy for me to be passive when it comes to my future.
Losing my job of fourteen years and getting involved with Runwell was the start of the next phase of my life. I have had time to reflect and now is the time to "Give back and move forward."
I, like many have lost sight of what truly matters in life. Working for the sake of working is no longer an option. If it doesn't have meaning or give me a sense of fulfillment it is not for me.
My wife Mary is behind me 110%.(sometimes giving me the proverbial swift kick in the...)
We can all use a good kick start every now and then babe, thanks!
I am very fortunate to have such a great friend and love as Mary!
So as I write this and reflect on the changes my life has taken these past six months or so I know it is time to put this feeling of weather induced depression behind me and get on with it!
The fact that I am even here writing this blog is a testament to how fortunate I really am!
My running year is shaping up rather nicely with a mix of all distances and some roads races too.
I was supposed to do the Pilot Mountain Payback trail marathon last Saturday in North Carolina but they cancelled due to weather. Luckily I was able to get into Run for Regis 50k in CVNP instead.
Tough race seeing as it was my first run over 15 miles in almost 3 months but I slugged through the snowy trails in 6:45mins.
My spring schedule should start getting me into shape for my summer 100 in PA!
3/2 Mill Creek 1/2 marathon in Youngstown Oh.
3/15 Buzzard 50k in Hinckley Oh.
3/22 Badwater Cape Fear 51 miler on Bald Head Island NC(My first Runwell event!)
4/12 Forget the Pr 50k at Mohican State Park in Loudenville Oh
4/26 Hyner View Trail Challenge 50k in PA
I may not know what I want to be when I grow up but I know what I don't!!
And that may be even more important!!
Well I guess that's it for now.
Hope to see you on a trail or road somewhere soon.......Mike
