Monday, July 4th:
I have been preparing for the marathon since I was even thinking about the marathon, so training started the day I registered, but this was the first official journaling day of my training. I'm calling this officially Week One. The Fourth of July is probably my favorite holiday of the year (sorry, Jesus). It feels great to have Independence and celebrate our liberties and freedom with family and friends. I wanted to run during the fireworks display in town, but I was having such a good time with friends that I decided my fellowship w/ them was more important than getting a run in for the day. While making this decision, I decided that if I wasn't going to run then I would pass on our friends' famous bread pudding (maybe next year, Uncle Mike :)
Tuesday, July 5th: Long Spin.
I love to make it pour sweat in the gym. I love being hot and sweaty. I raise my water bottle and say cheers to a functioning body that can exhaust the heat that I make in the gym.
Wednesday, July 6th: 3 Mile Run w/ the Obamas.
There was a pretty black couple in the gym so I pretend play in the gym and ran my heart out as if I was running for the Obamas. It made my run fun, and I felt great after I was finished running. All my endorphins were pumping, and I love the feeling of the Runner's High.
Thursday, July 7th: 20 Min. On Road Bike and 45 min. Spin Class.
I had sweat dripping from my head to my toes, and it was awesome.
Friday, July 8th: 30 Min. Recline Bike.
I woke up sore this morning from sleeping too much on my left side. This placed undue stress and pressure on my left knee, and it was very swollen and sore this day. I feel the best thing for me to do is to listen to my body. My heart wants to begin training w/ full force, but I am learning to pace myself. I have to remind myself of my limits and boundaries... Something I didn't do in my twenties. If I had pain during a run when I was in my twenties, I would run through my pain. As I have approached my thirties, I have learned to be more cautious and careful w/ my runs. I wish I wasn't in pain, but I am thankful that I am listening to my knee and ankle.
Saturday, July 9th: Rest Day.
Sunday, July 10th: 20 Min. on Eliptical and Weight Training.
I watched the US Women's World Cup and this day has become a point of motivation. I enjoy watching athletes train and then perform under pressure. And, then there is the sweet taste of victory. I have felt the taste of victory before and it tastes sweeter than good cake. Abby Wambach made that header as if she wasn't leaving anything behind her. She lunged straight foward, was headed for goal, and she got it. ESPN also played the 1999 Womens World Cup in California where Brandi made her historic goal in penalty kicks. The US Womens Soccer Team has now become a picture of motivation for me. If they can do it, I can do it. WIN!!!
