Week #2, Day #3

Well after a VERY long weekend doing my Mom's Estate Sale, which was quite successful by the way, I did manage to get my 8 mile run in on Sunday evening. Saturday was a long day, lots of standing, got up early, etc. If it had not been for a very light rain Sunday during my run, I probably would not have completed it. But, I did, so Week #2 is in the books! I actually felt pretty good after the 8 miles, so I was encouraged by that - I have not run 8 since last year's training.



So now we're into Week #3, here is the schedule for the week:

• Tuesday, 9/15: 5 miles
  
• Thursday, 9/17: 6 miles
  
• Friday, 9/18: 5 miles
  
• Sunday, 9/20: 10 miles

Today is Lesson #9: Have a Support Team. A Support Team can take many different forms, but having a Support Team of some sort will make your training and also race day go much smoother. Because of my work schedule, training schedule, etc. I tend to train by myself. On the occasions when our daughter (who is also a runner) is home, I must admit, having a running partner makes for a better run in my opinion. But, the vast majority of my training is done solo and on the nice flat course I am fortunate to have in our neighborhood.

My wife is my primary Support Team - a role she loves :)! She is always there to help with my training whenever I need her, but she is most helpful on race day. For my two previous marathons here in Mobile, she has met me at the 13.1 mile mark and also the 20 mile mark; for New Orleans, due the course layout, she could only meet me at the 13.1 mile mark. Seeing a smiling face with a towel, gel pack and my favorite sport drink is a huge morale boost! Of course, she is also at the finish where I need the most help!

Bottom line is this: rely on friends and/or family to help out. Training for and running a marathon is tough, we can all use the help!

Today's "Song of the Blog" for your running MP3 pleasure is Crunchy Granola Suite by Neil Diamond. If this live track from his Hot August Night CD doesn't keep you moving, well, better check your pulse!

More later as we move through Week #3 of 18!

Ciao for now.....