The last time I attempted to become a runner, nearly a decade and a half ago, I did so on the advice of my cousin (though it may as easily have been G-ma speaking for her). I was told to keep going and eventually I would become so dependent on it that missing a run might make me grumpy. After a couple of months, I called her a liar (though not to her face – sorry, Tina). I still HATED running and looked for any excuse to miss a run.

So imagine my surprise this time around, as I feel my legs just itching to get back on the treadmill, even though my head and throat are demanding I curl up in bed instead. It’s pretty exciting to feel this change taking place, and I must admit that I’m pretty proud of myself for keeping my momentum going.

But I have to recognize for a moment all the reasons why this time is so different. The major change is that now I have goals, running races, taking Joey’s ashes along and honoring his passion for life by pursuing my own. Technology is definitely in my corner now, too. The C25K (couch to 5k) app for iPhone is amazing. I can listen to my own playlist, but the app cuts in to let me know when to walk and when to run. It’s fantastic, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to get started running. I also follow running magazines on Twitter and C25K on Facebook for encouragement and testimonials from other runners.

Ok, that’s probably more commercial than a blog about Joey Jello’s influence ever needed. I’m just amazed that this is happening. I’m becoming a runner!

(Maybe someday soon, I’ll even have my own running photo)