Sunrise

Distance: 3 miles
Start time: 5:45am
Run Duration: Don't know (didn't wear a watch, I was in my car and moving again after a short cooldown and good stretch by 6:30)
Pace: Felt like about 9.5 minute miles
Temperature: 80 degrees
Humidity: 73%
Location: Memorial Park, Houston

I set my alarm for 7am. I was awake at 4:30. I didn't want to run in the pitch dark because I've heard of bad things happening at Memorial but I wanted to beat the heat and it made sense to run as early as possible. I laid in bed long enough for my obsessive mind to send the demons into my belly and to start sending the recent tremors there that have never previously lived in my body. I hate anxiety. It doesn't belong in me. I had to get out of bed. Off with the covers and into the shower.

Today starts my training for the Aramco Half Marathon. The race is January 17, 2010. I have 6 months to get ready and to do it the right way this time. Last time I tried this I ended up wrecking my left achilles tendon and in physical therapy. I didn't take the appropriate amount of time in PT and had a very long recovery period. Work came first. This year I have a crazy amount of vacation time on the books - because I hardly took any the last 2 years. I worked my silly butt off, including working a part time job (teaching kickboxing at the Y) the entire time hurting physically. I told my therapist that I couldn't come to appointments three times a week, but honestly, I didn't take a chance and ask for the time off from my surgery job. I was afraid to rock the boat and ask for time off to take care of myself. Big mistake.

This year is different. I'm smiling as I type this.

I'm planning a slow, gradual train. Start with 3 miles at a time. Work in a few 6 mile runs as the weeks go on, then add long runs once a week. I also know how to keep my supporting muscles strong and flexible - thanks to my Physical Therapist. I've got core muscle workouts. I feel more prepared.

This morning, as I rounded into the last 1/2 mile, I was tempted to go around again. My mind told me that 13 miles is only a little over 4 times what I'd already covered and I felt good. My mind is a mess. I have a lot of work to do if I'm going to make it through to January in one piece. Rest, nutrition, hard work, more rest. Oh, I also need to calm this mind. That is an entirely different matter. I will be addressing that issue, to be sure.