COMMUNITY JOURNALISM: Running tip

Editor's note: Erin Moeller, 34, of Mount Vernon, is a lifelong runner who has qualified for the last two Olympic Marathon Trials. A native of Ryan, she's a graduate of North-Linn and Wartburg who works for Benchmark Inc. in Cedar Rapids. She has two children - Ryne (7) and Evelyn (3) - with husband Andy.

Sometimes I get wrapped up in daily activities - stressed about fitting it all in, pondering what I'm going to make for dinner, wondering how I'm going to get everything done, and, oh yeah, reminding myself that I have a big race coming up that I need to be training for and focusing on.

Admittedly, these are normal challenges that many working/active parents have on a daily basis. As soon as the anxiety level starts to rise, I remind myself this whole running thing I do is just for fun. Sure, I'd like to do my best, but I'm pretty certain whether I run fast or not so fast is not going to determine if/when the sun will rise tomorrow. More importantly, I need to try hard, do my best and accept the outcome.

If you've ever watched a child run, it's easy to remember why we all started this crazy pastime. Watching our two kiddos race around the yard with their arms pumping, wind in their hair, feet flying - and head thrown back from laughter - it's pretty easy to be reminded of the fun involved with running.

I recently had the privilege to watch our 7-year old complete his first 5K. No, his mother did not encourage him to do so. However, after much persuasion on his part, I finally, gave in. (Yes, I can be a pushover at times.)

To see his smooth stride out on the course, the determination in his eyes and - best of all - the huge smile on his face helped remind me of the fun we all have with running. Even the days when my legs just aren't feeling it, somehow picturing Ryne's big smile and reminding myself that I'm doing this because it's fun helps lighten my step and gets me through my run.

If you're able to get a run in today, remember to have FUN out there.

- Erin