Distance Dreamers of the Blogosphere

Distance Dreamers began this week; a group started by Abbi at Higher Miles.  It started up at the perfect time as this is my 1^stweek of official marathon training.  Abbi began this group for bloggers that are training for their first full or half marathon in 2010.  Most of us seem to have races coming up toward the end of the year so it will be a great way to follow along with everyone’s training; the ups and the downs.   

Each week Abbi posts an update about all of the runners and then ends with some questions.  This week one of the questions was:

Why was this the year to go for the full marathon?

I always told myself I wouldn’t run a marathon until I was excited by the thought of it.  Living in Chicago, the thought of a marathon brought dread rather than excitement.  I couldn’t imagine training in the cold weather or in the unbearable summer heat.  It seemed like a terrible idea that would bring on sheer misery.  Once I moved to San Diego I was able to run on trails and along the ocean rather than the dreaded treadmill.  I fell in love with running all over again and wanted to sign up for races.  I started with the ½ distance, yet all I could think about was the full 26.2.   I was starting to have dreams at night about running marathons and would wake up wanting to register for one right then.  (That reminds me, I dreamt about the Malibu Marathon just last night!)  Anyway, I waited to make sure I had the full commitment in me.  Months went by and I knew that I was ready to take the plunge and run the whole 26.2 miles.  I don't believe in half-assing things, so I waited until I could give it my all.

There is one other reason that I chose now To run my first marathon.  I have realized, being vegan, that many people misperceive the vegan lifestyle.  Whether they believe vegans don’t get enough protein or that vegans need meat to be healthy, they just don’t quite agree with it.  Veganism actually worries some people.  I am using this as an opportunity to show people that you can not only survive on a plant-based diet, but you can THRIVE on one.  I want to do my absolute best to show everyone that I am not lacking in nutrition, I am thriving, and they can be too!  

I am looking forward to my long runs and the race itself because I know I will finish with a sense of accomplishment, pride and empowerment.  I need to prove to myself I can do it, and do it well. 

Thanks again Abbi for taking the lead on this group.  I can’t wait to follow along with all of the others. 

My first week of training – So far so good!