Easy, HARD, Easier and Fairly Easy

Since the last time I posted, I achieved my goal of running a 1/2 marathon after exactly 4 months of training! I finished in about the time I expected, 3:31. It would have been under 3:30 if I didn't decide to stop at a porta potty that I ended up NOT using because it was disgusting and if the water stations were more prepared so runners didn't have to wait. Otherwise, the run was great, but hard-the hardest physical challenge I have endured-even harder than childbirth. When I ran across the finish line, it was a little anti-climatic because I had no one cheering for me at the finish line. However, soon after I crossed my husband called on my cell phone. He and the kids watched the race on live streaming from home and watched the whole thing. That was cool! I did get teary eyed when I crossed the finish line, thinking I did it!

Now what? The Monday before the race, I did a short 2 mile "easy" run on the suggestion of my friend to build up my confidence after a yucky long run the Saturday before. The rest of the week, I rested!

The week after the race, I also did very little. I took Monday and Tuesday off and went to the gym on Wed and Friday. Swimming and stationary bikes were my workouts. On Saturday, I signed up for the Race for the Cure 5K that would be the next day. I felt good and wanted to build confidence after the 1/2 marathon the week before. It wouldn't say that the run was easy, but definitely easier and it was not competitive so I took my time and enjoyed it.

Today, two weeks later I woke up and ran 4 miles. Thank goodness the heat wave is over and had a comfortable run. Today, I did not track my pace or time, just ran. It felt good. Not sure if I will attempt another 1/2 marathon but I know I will keep running. I like the idea of training, because it motivated me on days I didn't want to run but it is nice to take it easy and not overdo it.

I want to thank my roomies Jamee and Andrea for pushing me to do this, I would have never considered this on my own. And thanks to my friends and family who really supported me and cheered me on. To Al, you are the best husband and motivator of all and thanks for bringing me water on my long runs-you are the best and I love you!

Stay tuned, my next goal is a triathlon in the spring....