"Active" season has started

I'm back! Actually, I've been here for a while, just been really busy. I've upped my running routine, trying to get it back up for running season, and I've started lifting (really lifting). Dan and Matthew have helped me out a bunch, and they push me to lift more, which is great motivation.

But like I said, "active" season is upon us. I've ordered (and received) a suspension fork for my mountain bike, a Yakima rack for my car and now I'm on the hunt for some Aerobars for my road bike. I'm on a kick this week to get my butt into gear to train hard for some long rides, 5Ks and a triathlon this year. I'm excited.

I heard a friend and coworker and fellow runner say one way they train isn't by attempting to finish lengths, but rather to run "times." Yesterday I ran for 45 minutes and did about 6 miles. Today, I'm only going to lift (but it'll be alone), and tomorrow I'm taking the day off.

Saturday I have my first 5K of the season, the same first one I ran last year: The Rush to Brush 5K benefiting the Blair E. Batson and UMC dental program. Glad I can help. Last year, I took the cold part of December and January off and finally laced up my shoes the day of the race.

My time was miserable. I ran 3.1 miles in 27:33 finishing 80 out of 216. Although it was good to finish in the top half, but I know I can do better this year. I'm better prepared. Last year, my last race (The Hap Hudson 5K at Mississippi College) I finished and set a PR at 22:52. My goal for the Brush 5K is to break 22 minutes. I think I can do it. I've got to push myself, but I can do it.

I'm also wanting to race the MS Heatwave Triathlon on June 6. I'm determined to do it. And we're going to the Double Decker festival in Oxford, MS, this April. They have an early morning bike ride that Saturday I think I'm going to ride in. They have 24, 50, and 66 milers. I can do the 66, but I might just do the 50. Who knows.

But today, I have to finish working. I have about 3 or 4 hours left. Then it's off to lift. I'll post my time Saturday after my race.