What a Difference 2 Weeks Can Make...

To catch up, I’ve actually had a great 2 ½ weeks of running. My weekday runs are fast and enjoyable once I’m out there. The last 2 long runs, 15 and 16 miles, were challenging at the end, but I felt pretty good throughout. I attribute some of it to the Gu. I never realized how important it is to take in those calories. Of course I’ve done it many times, but it’s been awhile since my mileage has been high enough to require it. I'm also convinced that the lower humidity has been really helpful. It was even a little chilly yesterday morning.

The lack of soreness in my legs is shocking. What’s up with that? Could it be that I’ve started taking a multi-vitamin religiously? I think that’s the only thing I’m doing differently. Not that it doesn't feel heavenly to have someone rub them, but they aren't achy like they have been the last few weeks. The human body is amazing.

I can’t believe there are only 9 weeks left. Where has the summer gone? The big 20 and 22 milers are looming, but I feel confident that I can make it through. I’m still not convinced I can make the 3:45 that I need to qualify, but I’m going to try. I’m still just pumped about having an excuse to visit Chicago!

The last 2 weeks have been better for me with regard to the relationships with my friends. I think I had prolonged PMS in July-no joke. I was overly sensitive and defensive with everyone. It was probably a combination of stresses that have now taken a different shape and are more manageable. RS reminded me how important it is to keep my mental focus on my goal. She said that she totally believes that I can do it physically. To paraphrase, I just have to get my head right. Her list of positive influences and situations in my life brought me back to one of the reasons I decided to commit to this marathon. My relationships with my close friends are so important to me. Right or wrong, I need that feedback and validation from people who care about me and I need to give them what I have to offer. I've resigned myself to it. That's how I'm wired. The downside is that I think the intensity with which I feel that need, is unique. I have to accept that people will always disappoint-not intentionally, but it happens. Even so, I can't stop flood of emotion I have for the friends that I love. *sigh* Life lessons...

My Feet Are Moving, But my Heart's Sinking

After two disappointing long runs and very sore legs, I’m finally ready to face the blog. The humidity, allergies and muscle fatigue have really bummed me out. I’m normally a half-empty girl, but with 11 weeks to go until Chicago, I’m going look ahead and focus on the positive instead.

Tuesdays are speed work days and I’m very thankful that the last one was finally gratifying. I banged out 7 miles on the treadmill with 5x800m’s (~1/2 mile) and the last repeat was a full 1600m at 8 min miles. It felt great. Wednesday’s 5 miler was tough because of the oppressive humidity. Wringing out my shirt after a run is disgusting. Today’s 6 ½ pace run was another confidence builder. I finished with an 8:17/mile pace – 17 seconds faster than my goal pace. The thought of running that fast for 20 more miles scares the hell out of me though. A reprieve from distance this week…ten miles on Sunday. It should be a relatively easy run.

I’m trying not to panic at the thought of the 26.2 big picture, but reminding myself that it’s a process. It’s hard to feel calm, because I feel like I should feel better for most of these runs, but I’m struggling. I know I'll be able to run it. How fast I can run it is the burning question. I hope it’s just the heat that's holding me back so far.

Luckily, my mind and emotions are still in a good state. My old friends are invaluable and my new ones help fill in the gaps. Silver and gold, as the Girl Scout song goes. Lots of good things are about to happen for me. I still believe equilibrium is on its way…