In two weeks, I will race in my third half-marathon.  Traveling through downtown Baltimore, the course loops around Lake Montebello, passing by John Hopkins University and ending at Camden Yards.  I can’t think of a better way to become familiar with a new city.

I decided to register for this after running my second race.  Clearly I’m a little into this whole running thing.  There are the obvious pros; it keeps me in shape, it keeps me active, and it gets me outside when I’ve been stuck at my desk reading scientific words all day.  I hesitated in the decision to do this, because it’s in October.  Sitting in front of my computer in July, I had no idea what my life would be like in three months. All I knew was that I’d probably have homework, I’d probably be working 9-5 type days, and I’d probably be stressed out. I had no idea if I’d have time, or energy, to train for another one. 

When I clicked  “Register,” I decided I would make time. Just for me. And that’s exactly what I’ve done.

Whether it’s this year as an intern, or next year as a full-time employee (um, *fingers crossed*), I need to know that somewhere in the craziness there is time to do what I enjoy. I need to know that I won’t always let a stressful work day lead into a long and grumpy night.  I need to know that I can have a crazy work day, and come home to something that lets me vent.   And at the end of any day, I need to know that I can make time for things I want to do. 

So, I’ve been training.

There have been some unexpected challenges, but overall it’s been interesting. If anything, I’ve learned a lot about the area I live in. I’ve found the neighborhoods, and I’ve also found the roads that don’t even have bike lanes. Not good.  I’ve used online mapping tools (www.mapmyrun.com is genius), and drove around trying to get a feel for what’s safe, where the hills are, where I’ll definitely get run over, and where I’ll be in the company of other runners and walkers. 

It’s been a lot like the beginning of this internship. Through the different rotations, I’m getting a feel for things. I’m realizing where I feel safe and knowledgeable, and also where I feel like I’m constantly climbing uphill. I’m discovering what challenges me.   I’m figuring out the roads that will lead to certain careers, and the ones that would lead me to a dead-end. 

And through it all I’ll continue to learn what I’m capable of, and what works for me.

Posted by Mary Ellen Nunes at 09/29/2008 09:15:37 AM