We have just entered the spring season and my desire to run and hike is slowly increasing to its previous grandeur. Last week I hiked Lone Oak trail to reset my mind and carry me into the training season. Later in the week I ran 8 miles and that run really sparked my running bug again. I am on my way into the zone.

I did exercise during the winter and early spring. I had a hard time running in the cold and I was relegated to the treadmill. Running on the treadmill (as you probably know) is SO boring. It makes it excruciatingly difficult to rack up significant miles. I began to wonder if I’d ever get back into my half-marathon shape. I had to believe it after one drunken night my husband signed me up for a half in August. Thanks.

Yes, after I completed the 8 mile run, I started to believe I would make a comeback.

I do feel a bit sheepish to admit that I stepped off the trail over the winter. I mean, I’m writing a blog about one’s trail running adventure. However, I must be easy on myself and show myself compassion. I would say the same to any of you, so I should take my own advice. To be honest, I considered stopping with this blog altogether because I felt like a failure.

This spring has opened my eyes and my heart to the human condition. If a person has the feeling that they are an imposter, and this causes them to give up, they are basically not giving themselves a chance. They are taking away the possibility of success. They could be denying themselves of a true adventure.

The mental side of motivation and self-care has become a focus of mine. I have also been interested in spirituality and how that fits into my life. These are subjects that I would like to delve into through this blog.

Even at my age– 48– I am still trying to “find myself” and I feel compelled to share this journey with you. I don’t know if anyone every truly finds themselves. It seems like a continuous investigation.

I will share with you the avenues I pursue and the discoveries I make. Keep in mind that I have a very open-minded view when it comes to spirituality. I refuse to restrict myself in order to make others happy. While I’m happy to share it with you, it is my journey. I do hope that I will inspire you to follow your own path.

So, my motivation to further my training for running and hiking is getting stronger every day as spring reveals itself. I am also experiencing a spiritual journey which is very exciting for me. It all culminates in inspiration and I want to share this with you.

Come, join me on the trail, and see what we will find!