I'm Training for the PF Changs Half-Marathon!

I am so excited that I am training to run in the PF Changs Rock'n'Roll Half-Marathon in January here in Phoenix! I have never been a long-distance runner; in fact, I used to HATE running! I had to run when I was on Purdue Dance Team for conditioning, but we only ran for 20 minute after practice. So why in the world am I training for a half-marathon, you ask? I know, I thought I was crrazy at first, too. I have been hiking like a mad woman since I started to hike this past March. When I got bored on the level parts of the trails, I started to run. The running got easier and easier, the more I did it.Then, I volunteered to give flu shots at the 2011 Phoenix Aids walk back in October. My colleague that did the flu shots with me was registered for the 5K, and I found myself wishing I was, too! As a result, I signed up for my first 5K, and started running more often. I completed my first race, the Women's Running Magazine 5K, on November 6th in 30:00. Not a ridiculous time by any means, but not too bad, either. I really enjoyed the race, and am now addicted! My next race is the Mesa Turkey Trot 10K this Thursday. I am blessed enough to have some great friends joining me this time so I won't be running alone :-). I'll definitely post some pics from the Turkey Trot in my next post!