I have these dreams sometimes where I am running. Not running from or to anything. Just running at a nice even pace, wind in my face. I feel free and happy. I feel that runners high that I have felt only once before. I wake up feeling eager to maintain that feeling and then remember that there is no way, in my present condition, that I could even attempt such a thing.

I have a friend at work who is an avid swimmer. He has recently taken up running and biking and has done a couple of triathlons. He has been very encouraging. He had some trouble with the running because of shin splints but never gave up. That has inspired me to get over my obstacles and just do it.

Another friend and I were suppose to do a 5k today. She begged off due to a sinus infection. I have one too but really wanted to go. And yes I didn't go because she didn't go, but not just because she didn't go. This would have been my first one and I was terrified. My other friend was going to be there with his family but I would have felt like a 5th wheel if I had latched on to them.

I have anxiety and crowd issues and I was afraid to go alone. My friend is my strength in situations like that. We go to Vegas sometimes. I don't think she realizes how grounded she makes me feel.

I don't have a large circle of friends and I like it that way. But it would be nice to meet some new folks who have an interest in running, that would help keep me motivated.

My friend and I do have a 5k scheduled for Mar 1 for the Houston rodeo. Wish me luck.