Up and Running

Literally.  This week I have been up and running.  Me, the most unathletic person in the world, the girl who even in elementary school hated "Monday Run-Day" on the track ... I have gone running, and enjoyed it, twice this week.

I've started a beginner running program, Couch to 5K (or C25K).  I downloaded a free app on my phone (C25K Free for Apple or Android users), and just decided to try it out.  It's a great program so far; it works to gradually bring you from a sedentary lifestyle to being able to run a 5K distance in 8 weeks, running 3 times a week.  You start off with a 5-minute warm-up walk, and then, at least for week 1, complete 20 minutes of intervals, 60 seconds jogging, and 90 seconds walking.  Then one more 5-minute cool-down walk, and you're done.  The first day was hard.  My diaphragm was aching.  My lungs were burning.  My legs were straining.  But I did it.  And boy did that cool shower feel good afterward.  Today I completed Week 1 Day 2, and it was remarkably easier.  Not easy, but definitely easier.  I found myself, as I neared the ends of the 90-second walking intervals, wondering when the jogging would start because I felt ready for it.  My next run will be Saturday, and I'm already looking forward to it.

Yesterday also marked the second week of which I have been participating in Lent; I decided to fast from meat and soda.  I am proud to say I have been successful!  I've been trying new vegetarian recipes, really pushing myself to incorporate more vegetables into my diet.  My body is my temple, the only place I have to live on this earth, and I need to treat it right.  After two weeks of a strictly enforced better diet, and now running thrown into the mix, I think I'm taking some pretty good steps toward better overall health and wellness.

Oh, and this past weekend I took my Dachshund Toby to our second ever field trial; he placed!  I was so proud of him, being able to display his natural talent for hunting, doing what his ancestors were bred to do.  I also met and networked with a lot of really cool people, and plan on continuing even after we move to The City.  (Which by the way, is only 4 months away now!  Yay!!!)

Anyway.  Life is good right now.  Jam-packed busy, but good.  School is in full-swing, but soon enough I'll be moving on to the next chapter in my life.  I can't wait!  So until next time...