Learning

First, I'd like to say thank you to my first readers...it makes me so excited to know people are actually reading! Today, I think I'm going to talk about learning because, as POM mentioned, this whole journey to marathon is really about learning about myself. And, let me tell you...the past few weeks as I've attempted to begin the journey have already taught me a lot.

Numero uno...I'm an instant gratification kind of gal. I KNOW that building mileage takes time, I've read all of the training plans, books, websites, etc...yet, for some reason, I think that I should be able to go out and run forever and be fine. I mean, after all, two years ago I was running five miles with no problem...what the hell is wrong with me? Now, don't get me wrong, deep down, I know my thought process is ridiculous and I know it's going to take the 5 months to build up to the marathon but I DON'T WANNA WAIT. I'm like my 6 year old step daughter when it comes to patience...

Numero dos...I'm a lazy, lazy girl. Now, you'd think being the 'instant gratification' type of girl I'd be out every day trying to build up my mileage but NO. So, not only do I think I can run forever instantly, I think I can do it by only running 2-3 times a week. Who am I kidding? I know that right now, 3-4 times a week is okay. I also know the importance of rest. The problem is these two arguments win over when it's a run day and I'm tired and I just don't want to go...I claim a "rest" day. SO NOT PRODUCTIVE!!!

Numero tres...when I DO get out there and start putting one foot in front of the other, I generally LOVE it! I feel so good about myself and it's such a good stress relief and I'm just a generally happier person when I do it. Well, that is when I do it and it's a good run. That brings us to today...my first not so good run. I take that back, it was actually an awful run. I get started, bust out the first mile (a little slower than usual, about 9 minutes...but, that's fine 'cause I'm trying to keep a consistent pace throughout), everything is going fine but my legs are KILLING me. See, I have a little problem with my feet and Achilles (have torn tendons in my foot and minorly tore my Achilles in college) being SUPER tight and it was terrible. I kept going until I hit my two mile mark and though that if I stopped and stretched, I'd be okay. Well, I stretched, felt better, started going again and made it about 1/2 mile before...BHAM...instant pain (ha, there's my instant gratification...) so I had to walk the rest. I know it's not that big of a deal, I made it 2 1/2 in decent time, it just sucks this is happening now. I need to get to the doctor and get some insoles and keep my stretching going so I don't get hurt. I don't want to damage myself before I even make it to double digits! Tomorrow I'm going to avoid running and focus on stretch and some easy cardio and I'll do an easy run on Friday to see how it goes.

How do you know you're going to make it? I mean, after days like today, I wonder if my body is even capable of running a marathon...when do I gain that confidence? Probably not till after...

YAY!

So, I finally overcame my 3-mile slump...the slump being that I couldn't get to the 3 mile mark without stopping. But, despite my legs' desperate attempts to stop me...I made it! Not the best time (avg. 10 min. mile which sucks but it's better than walking!) That brings me to 9 miles and it's already Friday. But, that's okay, 3 today and 3 Sunday = 15 for the week! I might even try to do 4 Sunday and see how it goes...look at me pushing myself!

I am tired though and I know I probably shouldn't go today, I'm still in beginning stages and don't want to hurt myself but I know how to listen to my body. I'm not really in the blogging mood today, I need to get my butt working so I must sign off. Until later...

Not quite 15...

SO...you all waiting in anticipation and, I've let you down :( I did not get in my 15 last week but I'm not beating myself up, I'm positively approaching this week and am well on my way. I have 6 in so far and am doing another 3 today...that means 3 Friday and 3 Saturday will be 15! Next week, I'm putting on my big girl running shorts and busting out a 5 miler (not till next Wednesday just giving you all a heads up to keep myself accountable!)

On a happy note, my big move begins next weekend. I'm so excited...sad to leave my husband and lil monkey (step-daughter) for 2 1/2 weeks but it's time we start our next big adventure! I get to my new home on the 3rd and have my first run the next Saturday. I'm going to do a lil 5 k on the 10th just to wet my feet in the whole real "runners world". Then, I'll be moving right onto a 10k the following month and a few more throughout the summer to get me ready for the big P-town Marathon in October! WOW...I have SOOOOOOOO far to go to get there and I really need to get myself motivated (especially since my super motivated running partner father thinks I can bust it out with a 7:30 pace...haha, we'll see about that one...my personal goal is an 8:30/9 pace which would make me SUPER happy). Any suggestions of what keeps you on track would be great! That and new song downloads are always appreciated.

Can I Stay on Track?

So, I'm heading out of town today through Wednesday for my final trip with my current job. Eating well is probably not going to be the main priority but I am still determined to get my 15-20 in (this week it will probably be 15). To do so, I'm going to do my best to run 3 miles each day I'm gone (might not happen Wednesday but I'm going to try); hey, I've packed my running gear, I intend to run and I'm going to make it happen! What I won't be able to do is blog so I'm putting it out there in advance that I'm not slacking, I promise! Be back Wednesday!

Welcome Back

So...I've been a blog slacker and I've probably lost anyone that was reading my blog but I'm back, I promise. Life has been crazy and full of changes, as a very wise songwriter once wrote "Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans". I know I should be running a lot more than I have been but I'm getting back there...next week, I WILL run 15-20 miles, not joking!
I have been busy, legitametly, I am planning a cross-country move to Oregon, been traveling for interviews, pondering life choices and trying to figure my life out. I did get a few good runs in the last few weeks and attended a great spin class! The move will be positive for my husband and I on so many levels...we'll have a great support system, I've lined up an AMAZING job that I'm very excited about and, I'll have a very motivating work out buddy (my daddy!) Needless to say, I won't be running the Richmond marathon, but I will be running Portland! I cannot wait. I also have a few 5 and 10k on the plate for the summer as well as a very exciting marathon length relay. I'm definintely looking forward to all of the changes to come and I promise I'll start writing more!