Tackling the Big "M"

A Sneak Peek Inside Wifey's House

I'm tackling the Big "M." No, not marriage (although I do that on a daily basis). No, not motherhood (that’s already the story of my life). And, no, not menopause (I know, I’m know, my kids’ friends call me “ma’am” now but I’m still not old enough for the change). I’m talking about the other big M … a marathon.

Gasp!

Yes, I’m going to run in my first marathon; and no, I haven’t completely lost my mind. Well, maybe just a little bit. I hoping to lose a few pounds, too, but my main reason for doing it is for the challenge. I want to do something that I think is incredible, that not that many people can say they’ve done (as few as 1 percent of the population) and something that will benefit my body and my mind.

I’ve always thought that running is sexy … and something that I couldn’t do. I used to look at other people run and wish that I could do that. I remember watching a television program and seeing a disabled gentleman with no legs run a marathon and thought, hello, if he can do it, and he has no legs, there’s no reason why I can’t, too. That sparked my first run in 2004 and it’s been an exciting journey ever since. I’ve run the AJC Peachtree Road Race, the world’s largest 10K race, four times; and in 2005 I proudly completed a half-marathon, that’s 13.1 miles.

Here I am still standing after 13.1 miles!

Running that half-marathon had such a huge impact on my life. It showed me that I can do anything that I set my mind to. Before my kids were born I was the laziest person on earth, and I smoked cigarettes, too. Gasp! No one and I mean no one would ever guess that I would have run down the street, let alone a half-marathon. Afterwards I felt good, I looked good, ahem, and it boosted my confidence. It also did wonders for my post-baby-sex-drive, but that’s a whole other post.

It’s time for a new goal; a new challenge and to get to get my body and mind back in top shape. Today I’m starting my 16-week training program to run in the ING Georgia Marathon on March 21, 2010. I will make sure to keep you updated on my progress over the next 4 months and welcome any tips, tricks and support.

How about you? When’s the last time you set a challenge for yourself? Motivated mamas want to know …

 Winks & Smiles,