I know I'm a runner when I run a PR (a personal record)--even if it's just a PR for that year. I know I'm a runner when I run farther than I have in years. I know I'm a runner when I run in the rain, or the wind, or the snow, or, worst of all, the heat. I know I'm a runner, when I finish so hard, I feel like throwing up. I know I'm a runner when I run negative splits. But I never feel any more like a runner than I do on a day like today. Today I am a runner who ran a slow three miles--an easy recovery run. I am runner who wanted more than anything (almost anything, that is), to take a nap. I am runner whose body hurt, whose back ached, whose mind was weary, and whose brief case is full of work. I am a runner who nearly talked herself out of running. I am a runner who fought the inner battle and won. I am a runner whose mind is more clear, whose body is rejuvenated, who is ready to work. I am a runner.