I'm a crazy runner (for now)

So, I've been running more lately. Last week I ran 8.5 miles! Thats the farthest I've ever run. And though I was tired, OK exhausted, I probably could have run a littler further if I had to. I am considering doing a half marathon next spring. (I feel small when I think about it) Don't know if I have it in me.

Anyhow, I've been wondering. Is it possible that running makes my thighs bigger? I mean, I've always had the buddha belly bouncing along with me, but my legs I considered "normal" size. But lately, my jeans are all getting tight in my legs! Ack! My weight is relatively stable. Maybe the fat is just repositioning itself? Who knows...

As crazy as it sounds, running is pretty cool. Before running is great. After running is supreme. The actual running is ranges from slightly uncomfortable to pretty darn painful and exhausting. But there is something in the human spirit (at least mine) that responds to improving. I like progressing. And I like that I'm trying something to avoid being a complete flabbalanche.

Being outdoors is pretty refreshing as well. When a crane gracefully floats down to land about ten feet away from me as I run down the coastal trail - well, that's pretty darn special. Staring at the ocean or the clouds or bunny wabbits scampering away - all good.

I've taken seasonsed runner Ogblay's advice and started listening to lectures while I run instead of music. It works! My mind follows the lecture instead of the painful sensations in my legs and away I go! Definitely got to get some new ones.... hint. hint.

I just hope I can keep finding the time to run. I'm so slow that to go more than a few miles I need about an hour and a half. It's hard to leave the kiddies for that long. It's not so much that I don't think they are safe, just not safe from each other. Ya know? And if it takes more over 1/5 hours to run 8.5 miles, how the heck long will it take to run a half marathon?

Oy!