Marathon: My personal journey

Oh boy, this is on my mind right now. Someone asked me if I have a big race coming up this year. I answered with "yes" and "no". I have registered with a couple of relay teams. The run for troops and market-to-market. They both will be FUN races.

GULP. 

The no part. I have not signed up for a full marathon yet. I have a goal of running 10 total or more. I am up to 5 right now. I could stop at 5 and be fully content.

But then there is the wolf at the door. I love it. The training, the grind, getting in better shape, challenging myself physically and mentally. My last race was awesome. I didn't PR, I didn't care. I had my best race and effort.

Here are my options right now:

• Run a downhill race (full marathon) out west.
• Run a full marathon in a vacation location. 
• Run the quad city marathon again- it was so much fun.
• Run the Chicago Marathon, my hometown, my family, the site of my first marathon. I have run it three times. Pay for it outright. 
• Run the Chicago Marathon for a charity.
• Run a "fast" half marathon. 

On Sunday nights, I am so excited because I have the opportunity to coach hockey and play in the FOSSIL league. We have fun.

Oh yeah, this is the time of year that can be difficult. Sub 0 temperatures, snow, ice, fog and other wild things. This year, I had to get creative with running during the travel season. I worked out a little indoors and spent most of my time outdoors. I prefer the outdoors, but it can be difficult to keep it going during bad weather.

Spring will be here. I still haven't signed up for a big race yet, other than the market-to-market relay in May.

This is a picture of my new running shoes. I LOVE them!


Image source:
http://www.asicsamerica.com/Shop/Footwear/Running/Mens/GEL-Kayano-21-Lite-Show/p/0010228582.0491

First, I am sorry that I haven't posted in a little while. I have been asked a few times about my running calendar this year. I have a fun relay this Spring, it's 75 miles with five of my close personal friends. I am excited about that. I will start training on February 15th, at least formally. 

My partner and I just need 104 miles in December to hit the combined goal of 2015 miles. Good news. We have 65 of the 104 already, so we can see the finish line!

YES! Just need to finish. #boom!

Image source:
Image source:
www.pednet.org

The weather is perfect. Each morning has been around 30 degrees. I ran with the Yak Trax earlier in the week, but shed them on Wednesday. 

As a runner, I have not always appreciated rest days. I have read about them, but for some reason just like to "grind it out". It is true that you must rest to stay fresh and injury free. This weekend, I have been resting and it feels great. I should do this more often. I know, I know.

I can't wait to hit the road again tomorrow. Tonight I am playing hockey, so my legs won't feel that way tomorrow. YAHOOOO.

Have a great Sunday. Here's to the fossils!


Image source:
http://www.wisegeek.org/what-is-the-fossil-record.htm