I can do hard things

As 2008 came to a close I decided I needed a hobby for the new year. I wanted to do something that would get me out of the house, challenge and stretch me but also be fun and enjoyable. After running a little 2 mile race over Thanksgiving I kind of thought it might be fun to get into running. (I use the term 'running' pretty loosely. it's more of jogging really, we're talking 10 minute miles here) So for Christmas Taber bought me some sweet shoes and warm running gear and we both signed up for a 5K that happens to be this weekend.

In January I started training. In the beginning I was doing a mile to a mile and a half 4 times a week and it wasn't easy for me. I didn't stay in very good shape while I was pregnant with Brinley so getting back into the grove took some work. Every week I added a little more distance and I was amazed that by the end of the month I could run 3 miles without dying. As February rolled around I kicked up my routine and started pushing for faster times and longer distances. I can now comfortably run 4 miles without feeling tired and I can do it 38 minutes. Again, these aren't huge distances or super fast times but for me, a non-runner, I'm feeling pretty good!

I've been enjoying myself so much actually that I decided to be really crazy and I signed up for a half Marathon in May. There was a time in my life when 13.5 miles sounded like death, but as I've trained for my little 5K I've learned a very important thing about myself, I can do hard things. Sounds kind of simple but this was a groundbreaking realization for me. I've always looked at other people who do what I consider to be hard things and thought, " I wish I was like them but I could never do that!" The truth is, it's not that I coudln't do those things, it's that I wasn't willing to try. Now instead of telling myself, "I'm not a runner" I ask myself, "what can I do to become a runner?"

This little epiphany has leaked over into the homemaking part of my life as well. I used to look at people who were fabulous homemakers and think to myself, "I wish I was like them but I could never do that!" Since my new realization, however, I don't say that anymore. Now I just say, " I'd love to be more (organized, crafty, better at cooking, etc..) what can I do to make that happen? And then just like I did with my running, I get out there and put one foot in front of the other and actually TRY to do those things. It's AWESOME to be able to put a delicious meal on the table or make something cute and creative for our home and think, "I did that! I can do hard things!" and the best part is they aren't that hard, they just take some effort. Running isn't hard but I have to put forth the effort to go out and do it. The more I do it, the easier it gets. And it's the same with my homemaking efforts. I CAN have a clean organized home and make other meals besides spaghetti! It just takes effort, but the more I do it, I'm sure the easier it will get!

So wish me luck on my 5K this weekend and remember, YOU CAN DO HARD THINGS TOO! (Believe me, if I can, anyone can ; )