You’re probably saying, “Wow! What an ugly woman! How could she include such a hideous picture of herself on her own blog?” Good question. I nearly didn’t post this gorgeous photo but I decided to include this picture from Sunday’s 10k race to serve as a reminder of the God’s grace. After the most traumatic week of my life, I was able to run a very challenging, very hilly 10k and place 2nd in my age group and 10th overall for the women. Even though, I look like I’ve aged 10 years in a week and lost a few pounds, I will forever look at this photo as one of my favorites. It serves as a reminder of the internal strength from which I can draw even when totally exhausted, both mentally and physically. Also, and most importantly, it reminds me that I’m so very lucky to have my son alive and kicking (and swearing a bit, too!). 
Although my training was unimpressive to most, to me it was very significant. In fact, it was a life saver, a blessing. Each of us has our own personal goals for which we continue to strive. Some of us hope to run a sub 45 minute 10k, while others of us strive to break an hour. No matter what your goal, I think that what matters most is the effort you put into achieving that goal. The beauty of running is that it’s very much an individualized sport – you compete with you – and each accomplishment comes from your hard work only.
Monday, September 3 – No Run
Tuesday, September 4 – Easy Mental Health Run – 8.0 miles but I have no idea what my time was. Trust me, it was slow!
Wednesday, September 5 – Speed Workout – 2.6 mile warm up, 10 x 400m in 1:49 to 1:54 with 200m recovery jogs, 2.75 cool down.
Thursday, September 6 – Easy Mental Health Run – 4 miles in around 31 minutes. I wasn’t running for time but instead for sanity.
Friday, September 7 – Rest
Saturday, September 8 – Exhausted! Ran 1.2 miles and called it a day.
Sunday, September 9 – M.A.D.D. Dash 10k + 9.1 miles – Warmed up with 3.1 miles, 10k race in 49:37, 5.9 miles more. I loved this race! The course was challenging, the people were great, and who can beat the cause?
Total miles run this week – 37.6 miles
Total miles run this year – 1,305.08
