Patience

Practice takes patience.  This is something I continue to have in the front of my mind often these days.  Perhaps I am wiser now.  It used to be if I didn't get it right the first time or even the second time, I would give up and want to run away only to return to it again stronger and wiser.  I am not just talking about running, but that is where it is the easiest to really see evidence of my learned patience and dedicated practice.

 I am not the runner I was when I first showed up to start really training for the Santa Barbara Half Marathon back in 2004.  I had two little kids then and a husband who didn't get the need I had to find my runner again.  I am not that woman who had no sense of pace and had only one speed.   I have had excellent coaching and I have put in my time and gained the mental and physical strength that I have now.

Could I run faster?  Probably.  Is there time in my life to do what it takes to stay healthy and run faster? Maybe.  Am I satisfied with where I am right now with my running?  Absolutely YES.  I am strong. I am a team player.  I am in it to be healthy and sometimes challenged, but I get more satisfaction out of running a little bit slower pace with someone else than a little faster pace by myself.

My running isn't all about me anymore and it feels good.

Yes, practice takes patience.  It has taken years for me to get here and I suppose I still have a ways to go.  Thank you to all my running friends who haven't given up on me and a husband who now understands.

PS:  I would still really like to get a 3:30 or faster marathon though.  :)  So... well... hopefully I won't have to be patient for that much longer.  My new mantra: " Start slower to end faster! " Maybe that will work.  I will let you know on Dec. 8!