12 Days

Sunday I was in lovely, flat Delaware visiting my parents and I did a long run of 10 miles.  BRUTAL is the only word I can use to describe it.  It was in the 20s and so windy my ponytail was horizontal for most of the run.  I had my dad drive me a couple of miles so that I could end my run at the house.  I dreaded getting out of the car.

Well, I did it.  My longest run yet.  The run itself wasn't bad - 1 hour 49 minutes, 10:51 pace - but the cold and wind made it tough.

I'm a little sore but not bad and no knee or calf pain.  I have to admit, the training is wearing on me.  Two 5 mile runs this week leading up to my last long run next Sunday.  I'm nervous about it because I'll be running it at home.  Unlike Delaware, this area is hilly and I think it contributes to some of the pain and injuries I experience. 

One more.  Fingers crossed it goes well.

2 weeks!

I can't believe it's almost here.  Two weeks from today I'll be packing for my trip to Disney to run the Disney Princess Half-Marathon. 

My first half-marathon. 

The past couple of weeks have been tough.  Knee issues came up suddenly and I've been trying to balance training with resting.  So far so good.  Then, a strange pain between my ankle and calf.  Can't figure out what it is and it was so bad after my long run on Sunday that I could barely walk.  I finally iced it and it disappeared.

My goal is to finish.  My dream is to finish in 2:30.  It is possible if everything goes well.

Right now, I'm focusing on just getting through the last few runs then shifting to simply enjoying my vacation.  One thing I have kept in mind since making the huge decision to register for the race was that if it all goes to hell in a handbasket and I can't finish, I will be in Disney World with my 2 little girls for the first time.  I'm as excited for them as I am for myself.  I'm looking forward to their excitement and the wonder in their eyes.  They have no idea we're going either.  It's going to be a huge surprise!  I can't wait.

Disney, here we come!