To be honest, I’ve not been the most fun person to be around this season. I’m not sure why, but I’ve been a touch blue and I haven’t been able to channel the holiday spirit. I feel as though I’ve just been going through the motions. I haven’t blogged much, I haven’t commented much and I certainly haven’t been running much. And so the scheme was continuing.
My plan was to run with Richard for 10-miles at 5:15 AM then pick up and run 3 more miles with Cindy and Deana at 7. Seemed like a foolproof plan until I work up at 4 am and it was 21 degrees and windy as hell. Richard beat me to the phone and called and canceled. I tried to go back to sleep but I couldn’t because I was mad at myself. I let that damn self-saboteur brainwash me again. I’m so easy.
So, as I contemplated canceling my 3-mile run, I pouted, whined and read some blogs. When I checked my comments, I had a nice surprise. A comment from a delurker who said I inspired her to run a half marathon. Oh my God. If I can inspire someone to run a half marathon, then there is no way in hell I was going sit on my ass, (the real one, not the furry one), and let the cold weather beat me.
Kim, I thank you. Your comment inspired me to run my 7.15 miles in 23-degree temperatures this morning. It also did more than that, it reminded me why we all blog to begin with – to inspire, entertain and learn from each other. Blogging is a very self-centered environment, one that suits me nicely I might add, but if you don’t visit or comment on other blogs then it all seems a bit diminished.
That is where I’ve fallen short, finding inspiration from all of you, and I want to change that. I want to change a lot of things, but I’ll start with finding that old comment whore and shoe pornographer who started blogging several years ago. Maybe somewhere along the line I’ll find that inspiration to train and like I did back then.
I remember the comment whore I fell in love with (it’s a virtual kind of love, not stalking like, innocent, but real). You always made me feel like I mattered when I first began blogging and for that I will remain a faithful reader. I hope you find the inspiration you are looking for as well.
Hi Susan,
I’ve been lurking for about a year, and I too have been inspired by you. I plan on running my third 1/2 marathon in the new year. What I like best about you is that you just keep going, you don’t give up!! I’ve been running on and off since I was 13, I’m now 46, I love it, but it’s still such a challenge, thanks again.
Julie
Awww, good on ya! I have been feeling blue lately, as well. I’m glad you made it out for your run. Merry Christmas!
damn you, now I’m INSPIRED!
Yes indeed – it’s all about giving and getting inspiration.
Love the new look, too!
Merry Christmas.
I sometime wonder why I keep blogging. But you are right – it never ceases to inspire, entertain, encourage or teach me.
Wishing you & your family a wonderful & merry Christmas from a very hot Sydney 🙂
I love the fact that we can inspire each other. You have inspired me to get my arse on the treadmill today. 🙂
Merry Christmas Suz! I simply adore you! Are we lifting tomorrow? As Denny says, “Strength knows NO holidays!”
I love your blog because not only is it damned funny, but you perfectly (and very articulately) capture how challenging it can be for a regular person to seriously pursue running and racing while balancing other life commitments. Your blog is also at time disarmingly honest, which I suspect is a big part of why you have so many fans!
I hope your spirits pick up soon, along with your miles. Have a very happy holiday.
The love keeps pouring in.
There’re many reasons. Every post is another one.
Every comment is a dividend.
Great post Susan. I have been feeling similarly lately. It is always good to have a reminder why we do this.
Merry Christmas to you and your family 🙂
OH ME! Well I’m glad that my very honest comment inspired you! I found your blog when I first started running and needed constant motivation to find my running mojo. I kept thinking that surely after 30 days (isn’t that what Covey says) that I would wake up and be a “runner”. This to me meant that I would spring out of bed every day with whole hearted enthusiasm for the sport. Hmmm, still eluding me. So your blog helped me realize that it will always be work but for that reason alone makes me feel like I’ve accomplished something when I get my butt back in the door! So….once again….thank you and I’m glad you have realized that you could very well inspire lots of people at different times. Just be let those thoughts run free and be yourself – it’s who we all tune in for!
We all experience the ebbs and flow of motivation. Thanks for helping keep mine going by just doing what you do!
I totally get the un-bloggy, un-celebratory feelings but was encouraged to see your comment on my blog this week. I will find that bread pic soon, but thought I would drop by and commiserate about muddling through Christmas too. Hang in there Susan, ups and downs are just hills 🙂
Thanks Kim, and thanks Susan for your blog.
Thanks for inviting all of us into your life – both the everyday and the running part. I’m sure you inspire more people than you know.
Here’s to 2008! Train and run well. I so want it to be your year of PBs! 🙂