Happy to be running

Minneapolis Marathon, June 6, 2010 was the last day I put in miles for the summer.  ITB had been an issue for about a month leading up to the race, so a recovery period was necessary for proper healing. 9 weeks was about all I could muster up without feeling like the biggest slug ever there was.  So, in the brutal heat August brings here in NC, I began training once again for the Fall marathon season. 


I LOVE marathons, love Fall running, love long run Fridays, love it all.  After taking a hiatus, I was in desperate running mode.  Perfect.  I'm working my way back up the mileage chart, concentrating on speed work, hills, and weight lifting.  Even though the progress has been way more than I could have hoped for, there still isn't enough time to get in all the miles that I need to before Nov. 13.  I'll get in the 20 miler, but only once.  I'll get in the Yasso 800's, but only 6 weeks of them.  I'll increase my speed, but not enough to BQ.  BUT, I'm happy to be running and improving each week.  Being on the DL sure makes me appreciate the joyous days of running, especially in the cooler weather.  


Finished the Carrboro 10K in 48:57, finished my 18 mile run last week in just 2:36:36, performing my Yasso 800's in 3:35's, all is looking well (so far!)  Next on the agenda is the Dowd 1/2 marathon on 11/6, then Richmond marathon on 11/14.  Richmond should be a great race, it's where I'll lay it all on the line.  


I've also decided to participate in Marathon for the Cure!!  My race for that will be December 11--the Thunder Road Marathon in Charlotte.  I'm hoping to raise as much money as possible in honor of my friend Ann who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer.  I haven't done any fundraising since college, so I feel a bit rusty, but it's for a great cause.


I'm thankful for my health, for the ability to run, and for the friends that have helped me along the way.  We're off to a good start!!!