Running uphill
Well, well. It seems that yesterday’s post was the blog heard ’round the world – that was the most visits I’ve gotten since December 1, 2010.
In the event that you’re new here, welcome. I’m Annie, the curator of this here little web log, and I live in Denver, where the weather is currently 27 degrees and snowing. I’ve been told that for having a desk job, I lead a pretty exciting life – and a lot of the time, I have to agree, although it’s probably worth arguing that I just like to make a big deal out of the dull. I’m hungry all the time. I order the clothes in my closet according to ROY G. BIV. I’m working really hard toward becoming debt free. I don’t own a single pair of leggings.
Here’s a little glimpse into my present reality.
I’m less than a month away from the Seattle Half-Marathon, and my training has been going super well. I’m excited to run this course through my favorite city (if you’re familiar with Seattle, check it out – such a fun and scenic route). I know that there are a lot of hills, and I’ve been figuring out how to run hills more efficiently. My über-runner friend Mark Miller always says that when running uphill, one should keep the same effort level, but not necessarily the same pace – which is relevant to my life right now.
I’m heading uphill, and trying just as hard – but just going a little bit slower.
Several months back, I found myself at rock bottom in the ditch of all ditches – down with the muskrats and the snakes and the creepy crawlers – with no clear and easy way out. I’m slowly but surely working my way upward, but realizing that a lot of damage has been done. Movement doesn’t come as easily as it once did. I’m finding that it’s helpful to slow down, to not push myself too hard, to strip away distractions, and to focus on one step at a time.
It’s not flashy, and it’s not exciting, and it’s quiet and tough and sometimes painful work that can only be done on my own, under the strength of my own two legs. But it’s leading me higher.
Thanks for being here, friends.
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tags: Annie Parsons | Denver | Emotions | Pain | Running | Seattle | Seattle Half-Marathon
Slow and steady, little girl.
I know what that ditch is like, Annie…been climbing out of it myself the last few months. I love your blog, love your music, and am cheering you on! Grace and peace to you, now and always. Kim who?
xx sweet friend.
If you have an extra flight to use, I’m just 2 hours away in (the suburbs of) san francisco, with a bottle of red and a block of cheese for us to share.
God made you a mountain climber for a reason, Annie Parsons. So glad you know about slogging towards onward and upward.
You are loved.
oh annie. I also order my closet according to roy g. biv. do you also run into frustrations with things that are MORE than one color? where should I put it?! the things that stress me out. I have been feeling uphill lately too. ps, leggings changed my life.
Annie, I don’t remember if I ever posted this to you before in a comment, because your posts often make me think of it. I have had seasons that feel like much upward climbing. The Lord imparted recently that “only he who climbs will see.” He showed me that those who make the climb will soon reach a great glory. Climb on, sister. Many give up and say it’s not worth it. But only he who climbs will see :) Thanks for your wonderful writing- always makes me smile :) Praying expectantly for you for a great glory harvest in your life.
One of my new favorite verses is “steady plodding produces prosperity…” Proverbs 21:5. As much as I would love to live on the mountain top, I know it’s virtually impossible to get there without a whole lot of plodding…but we will get there! Thanks for sharing your journey.
ok random, but i am so glad you know what ROY G BIV is!!!! i have been trying to teach the kids that and mojo thinks i am crazy! i was starting to think i was the only one who learned that in school! yay! i’m not looney!