13.1 is a day away, and I am so excited. This entire process of training, following a program, learning how to eat better, setting boundaries, keeping to the consistency, growing menatlly stronger and raising money for my friend Theofanis has contributed to my evolution, and improved me as a living human being. (sidebar: this is only the beginning)
Helen Keller was right when she said, "Alone we can do so little, but together we can do so much!" My husband and family have been so supportive of my training runs as they daily encourage me to get out the door and lay the mileage down. Coach Lisa trained me with belief and she applied her vast expereince to get me past my fears of double digits, and send me out working with proper form, pacing and guiding me with realistic goals in line. Lisa's rules for my first half marathon: (1) learn the distance, the first run is not for time, but for expereince (2) don't listen to the non-experienced runners and negative nellies, I've done the work-get out and do it again (3) fuel and hydrate properly (4) rest (5) don't keep looking at my watch and keep a consistent effort and pace (6) use gels after an hour and every 30 minutes after (7) don't try anything new on race day- wear the clothes, shoes, accessories, drinks that I have rehearsed during practice ----and finally CELEBRATE the run!
I appreciate every single person who has inspired me and shown support through positivity and I am grateful to every person who sent emails to say "way to go," but mostly thank you to every single one of you who donated to Theo's Race To Cure! Thank you for sharing your hard earned money with a person is going through intense and painful adversity -BUT THEO WILL WIN! Thank you Theofanis for being my guiding light tomorrow when I complete my first half marathon. Theo- every step will be dedicated to your complete recovery and your return to an easy going childhood. No child or person should have to face and endure what Theofains is experiencing with treatments. My prayers and heart are with the Yianas family today, tomorrow and always. Efxaristo Panayia yia teen ef-ke-ria na trexo yia ton Theo!
For newbie runners and veterans- keep Muscle Milk in mind for your training. I have sprinkled in Muscle Milk drinks after most of my post runs. This protein drink has refuled me each time I have felt tired from completing the long distance and the drink tastes good. Most importantly, Muscle Milk is a no brainer because it contains every ingredient you need to rebuild and evlove into the athlete you deserve to be! It's vital to refuel within 45 minutes of completing your training and the ease of Muscle Milk affords you the opportunity to get the nutrition in quickly! :)
Training update: This past week was a taper week - Sunday I did my 6 miler, Monday off, Tuesday was a 4 mile treadmill run with intervals, Wednesday off, Thursday 2 miles with a light lift, Friday off and today one easy mile. Tomorrow the big half!!!!! YES! For now, I'm out the door to do an easy one mile jog to get the cobwebs out.
Later today I will hit the Rock "n" Roll Expo, get my packet, check out the goods and get ready for tomorrow with a pasta dinner with family. Gotta love that.
I'll blog this weekend's experiences by Monday - should be awesome!
In the meantime, be healthy, happy and stay kefinated!
xo
The Roadrunner
