Then and Now

I was looking through some old race photos last week which got me reflecting on how far I've come as a runner over the last several years. It's easy for me to get frustrated if I'm not seeing improvement all the time, but looking at these old photos really made me realize how far I really have come over the years, and it fills me with a deep sense of appreciation.

I was kind of hoping that I could come up with some sort of profound ability to be able to put into words how running has changed me – because it has. It's not just physically put me in a better place, but mentally as well. Ultimately I have decided that I don’t think I can really convey my feelings. People will either get it, or they won’t. I am fairly confident that anyone who has seen me at a race, while they may not really understand why I do what I do, could see by the smile on my face when I race that running is a part of me.

I can't believe I'm about to share these photos, but I guess what I want to show people is that I wasn't born out of the womb running. I wasn't born with athletic genes. I haven't always been as crazy about running, swimming or biking as I am now. I haven't always been healthy. And, I certainly wasn't always fit. I've struggled with weight issues and self esteem issues. But, I do believe with hard work, you can make a change for the better. So, here ya go...

Then...circa November 2004.
The product of too much Mexican food, beer & late night pizza.
One of my first races getting back to running. Dan kicked my a$$ in this race and it pissed me off for months.

Hardest 5 miles of my life. I'm afraid to even look up my time from that race.

December 2004.

Now. Circa 2011.
Lighter, healthier and feeling better about myself.