Resolutions, Bricks and Running

Over the last few days, I've spent a good deal time, including the time I would normally spend writing here, taking a look deep down inside, questioning myself and making resolutions. Sometimes, the most important resolutions aren't the ones you make with each new year. They are the ones that cover things you should have always done and should always strive to do. They aren't the resolutions you advertise, but the ones you keep and keep in mind.

Since Saturday, I've been building the first of two brick walls in the backyard. Of course, it hasn't been a solitary undertaking. I've received a ton of help, especially with loading, unloading and placing the roughly one-hundred keystone bricks that make up the retaining wall near the fence line. I figure I'll need just as many to complete the flower bed once I dig the trench. The bricks are tan, weigh about twenty-five pounds each and look similar to these garden wall units. When completed, it should be just the right height for sitting. I need to remember to take some photos while everything is still underway and once it's all finished.

On Sunday, we ran the Wildflower 5K Fun Run. The race benefits the American Association of University Women's scholarship fund. The course is nearly a complete loop that begins in the local high school's parking lot, passes a number of farms, a medical center, a new housing development, more farms and finishes by the high school's soccer and baseball fields. The terrain was completely flat, which made it ideal for folks who desired a leisurely morning jog. I chugged along at a comfortable 9:12 per mile pace.

In 2003, I ran twelve races, which now seems like an excessive number. Last year, thanks to an ankle injury, I only participated in three runs. Sunday's race felt good and boosted my motivation to stick with the outdoor runs and indoor workouts. If possible, I hope to participate in five or six races this season. Most of them will likely be 5Ks, but I'd also like to do a 10K or two.