My resolution in 2010: only run races when it’s warmer than 10 degrees outside.

I kicked off the new year by participating in the Polar Dash 5k. I was so excited, but then realized it wasn’t quite ready. All the adrenaline in the world can’t warm you up when it’s a single degree above zero outside. You would have thought I learned my lesson when I ran in the Reindeer Run, but no such luck.

My dad and co-worker Carly also ran in the race. I’d say I ran in it, but, truth is, I didn’t run. I ran the first few minutes, then the cold-air and lack of training caught up with me. I had trouble breathing and after half the race, I really wanted to stop. Carly wouldn’t let me quit, God bless her. She gave me the boost I needed to get done.

We crossed the finish line at 45:20. Our goal was 45 minutes, so we did it. It’s a nice slow time, which means I can only improve it during the four other races I’ll be running this year.

I must be crazy. I’ve signed up for Team Ortho Monster Marathon Series. It consists of races… four times a year. After each race, participants get a medal. That piece will connect with three other slices and make one big medallion. The medallion has become my motivation.

The next race is June for the Minneapolis Marathon. Don’t worry, I’m only running the half. That’ll be plenty long for me. I’m glad it’s six months away, I will need every second to get ready for it.

Remember my goal to run the Twin Cities half marathon on July 4th? Yup, I’m still doing that one. I should be able to improve my time by a few seconds, if not a minute or two.

Then in August I’ll do a duathlon. Run 5k, Bike 13 miles, Run 5k. Shoot me in the face now. This is the race that actually scares me. You can sign up to do it as a relay, but I don’t think you get the medal then - and let’s be honest - that’s what I want. I have until August to get ready for it. Looks like my cross training days will be spent cycling this summer.

In October I’ll run the Monster Dash. There is a 5k, 10k and half marathon options. I’ve decided to run the half marathon. Why? Why not. By October I better be able to run a dang half marathon.

I’m glad I decided to do the Team Ortho races. They’re well organized and have great volunteers. Everyone is so supportive. Another thing I like about the Team Ortho races is you can walk them and not get disqualified. A lot of longer races will pick up people who are going too slow. Team Ortho just wants people to be active and finish, so you can finish when you’re able to finish.

…that’s what I plan to do: finish.