The Power of Ten

It was a dark and stormy morning when I pulled into the Nike World Campus. I knew I had ten miles ahead but I still had not decided how to accomplish such a challenge on a day such as this. My gym bag was packed with many layers of clothing so either way I was "covered". I didn't want to run outside in the rain mainly because I didn't want to ruin my running shoes -- which are cute and kind of space-age looking. Also, it wouldn't be a good idea to buy new running shoes one week before the big day. Its suggested by veteran runners to run one's event in the same shoes one trained in.

Well, this story could get longer but since I'm too tired to be creative I'll just tell you what happened.

I ran the first five miles on the treadmill inside the gym. It was so boring and I hated every minute of it -- but I pushed through each mile knowing that I'd be glad to have them behind me when I hit the pavement outside for the last five miles. When I got outside and the cool air hit my, now-beginning-to-be-sore legs, it felt great and reinvigorating. I ran around the campus twice to complete 5 miles (first the big loop then the small loop, for those who are paying attention). With each mile that ticked by I encouraged myself aloud. When the tenth mile was complete I lifted my arms in victory--Rocky Balboa style. I wanted to run back into the gym and announce to the whole world that "I JUST RAN TEN MILES!" But instead I warmed myself for a long time underneath the shower and then took myself out for a bowl of soup.

Hi, my name is Sally and I just ran ten miles.