It's Worth It, I Swear

My posts haven't been as regular as I'd like them to be--but my computer (less than 1 yr old) is in the shop and I've had to work around that. This also means I can't include photos yet--but hopefully soon!

I had a milestone this week: last day of physical therapy! Of course that was a good thing, but it was also kind of sad to leave. I'd been seeing these people twice a week for six weeks and got to know them pretty well. I was touched when they all gave me hugs on my way out.

So, running. Unfortunately, it has continued to be a struggle this past week. I've been battling the heat, a busy schedule, and what I will delicately refer to as "GI distress." (look it up)

Last night was no different. I pushed through a difficult 6 miles around the park, came home, and soaked my legs in an extremely cold bath. Neal saw me when I got back and said my facial expression was a cross between pain and shock--as if I, "...had just seen a fat man naked."

But I love running, I really do! A good run can give you such a feeling of joy. And it's the purest sport/activity there is--just you versus yourself, anytime, anywhere. And it's amazing when you discover just how far you can push yourself both mentally and physically. For that reason, I'm looking forward to hitting the trail tomorrow for 10 miles.

I was also excited to get my new issue of Runner's World this week. It's an Olympic preview, and, nerd that I am, I am really excited for the Olympics to start in a few days. The highlight for me will of course be the marathon. Ryan Hall really has a shot, which is exciting for the US, since our men haven't medaled in a long time. There is also a guy on the Olympic marathon team, Brian Sell, who is from Rochester Hills, Michigan! 30 years old, he is part of the Brooks-Hansons Distance Project. Those of you from Michigan may know of, or have even bought shoes from Hanson's Running Shop in Utica. I know my sister and I bought all of our track shoes there, and my mom gets her walking shoes there as well. The Brooks-Hansons Project is a training program which started in 1999, and trains post-collegiate runners. (1999, coincidentally, is also the year I ran for the Eisenhower cross-country team.)

As a rookie runner, I remember hearing all about the Hansons and the amazing athletes they were training. It's really exciting to see people from my hometown now getting worldwide recognition.

Of course, I am also looking forward to the women's marathon. Deena Kastor won bronze in Athens, and is back again this year. She's 35--maybe I still have a shot at the Olympics? Haha...

Total distance covered: 49.5 miles
Days until race: 78