Running

I've lately taking up running. And, contrary to questions I have been asked; No. There is no one chasing me, and Yes. My car works fine.

On the morning of July 4th I ran the Music City 5K in downtown Nashville. This was my first official, register for, sponsored, national event. (Again a relative was even more baffled that I actually PAID to run). I must say it was an amazing feeling. After a 5k loop that crossed the Cumberland River twice and looped part of Broadway, I was quite pleased to walk away with a final time of 30:09. I came in 7th in my 'age group' - of only 18, and 99th overall.

I cannot begin to describe how liberating it felt to cross that line (and to still be alive). Not too shabby for a crusty ol' monkey. I ran 6 miles the week leading up to the race and took one day off. Yesterday I ran a 2 mile paved loop - and came away with 20:29. This morning I did another 10 minute mile. My current goal is to get to an 8 minute mile. I have a new passion. ...and for once, it's GOOD for me!

Since moving to Nashville I have dropped 55lbs, and gotten rid of nearly every vice, save Rum. After last night I am pretty firm in the conviction that the Rum is going to be shelved too.