Author: Colleen

When I started running again in my mid 40’s it was a complete shock to both my body and my mind/ego. It is SO much harder to get back into shape as we age. The starting over is painful and humbling. Day by day it got better and the first few days and weeks were pretty tough and then there is a breakthrough and suddenly it wasn’t as difficult. Slowly I started improving my pace. And now it is my happy place.

Is it like this in other areas of life? Is the restarting or starting over always so painful at first? How long will it be hard? When will I show progress? These are the questions I have today. When will I find a new happy place?

Run happy!

Today the headlines were filled with the horrifying news of a young woman in Tennessee who was kidnapped while jogging and murdered. Eliza Fletcher went out for a jog on Friday morning and didn’t return home. Her body was found today. She was a wife, mother of two, and kindergarten teacher. Her picture is one that radiates joy with a big beautiful smile.

It is a sobering reminder that the love of running does not come without risks. I am fortunate that my routes are heavily traveled and I generally mix up the times and routes. My brother called today and urged me to just run indoor on a treadmill. I do not want the people I love to worry about me so will be extra cautious.

My heart goes out to Eliza’s family and friends.

Run for those who can’t.

Nice having the three day weekend to have the extra day to relax and catch a breath. Running up in the high country in cooler weather was a treat despite the altitude and hills!

Back to the heat today with a run in the mid 80’s. Not many people out which surprised me. Still listening to Brene Brown and Rising Strong. It is one of those books that hits you between the eyes and when your vision clears you wonder why you didn’t see things so clearly before. Her personal struggles and stories really bring to life the battles we all face and how “rumbling” with the hard stuff can bring awareness and healing.

Still running happy!

So nice to run among the pines and the lower temperature. Slept in and it was still only 70 degrees when I went for my run at 9:00am. Took my time tunning a loop around a golf course. So beautiful and ended up just short of 4 miles with a 9:34 min/mile pace.

I feel good and refreshed.

Run happy!

I made the mistake of drinking a Diet Coke to stay awake during an evening meeting which helped since the meeting didn’t end until after 10:00pm. The problem was that I tossed and turned until after 2:00am.

The late night meant a late run with the temp at 88 degrees at 7:00am. Same route as usual and still enjoying it.

Run happy!

Today is Sept. 1, 2022 and I ran solo again today. It is a tough day that is full of emotion. Feelings of sadness and regret hang heavy. My wise counselor asked if I could think of this as a celebration of all the amazing things we created together. Three amazing young men who are caring, hard working, and all so handsome. Several successful businesses as well.

Trying to run happy!

Haha…literally same thing two days in a row. Got up and got the miles in early. Normal weather, normal pace, and so happy to be able to run!

Listening to Brene Brown’s book Rising Strong. I’ve listened to it in the past and each time I listen I hear something new. I think her message is universal and can help anyone whether going through a very difficult time or just regular life struggles. There are big storms and smaller ones and either way, how we respond matters. Give it a listen…you will be glad you did.

Run happy.

Just another summer morning run here in Arizona. It was 85 degrees out when I ran and it actually felt a little hotter then that. No complaints as I will take the heat over the cold any day of the week.

Met an old friend for dinner tonight and that was the highlight of my day. It was great to reconnect and catch up. Life moves pretty fast.

Run happy!