Taking It Slow

Monday marked the start of week three. Aileen had the brilliant idea to repeat week two before moving on to the additional miles of week three. I agreed that it would be a great way to build up a little more strength before progressing. Sometimes taking it slow in the beginning is a far better decision than pushing it. So, this week we will run two 3 mile runs and a 4 mile long run before advancing to two 3.5 mile runs and a 5 mile long run. We have about 3-4 extra weeks to play with because the program is 12 weeks and the half isn't until May 16th. This is a beautiful thing.

As for my personal running, I feel stronger. It sounds ridiculous that only 2.5 weeks back on track could produce results, but I think it's happening. I'm enjoying my running days, starting to notice improvement in endurance, and generally feeling good about things.

I had an epiphany a few days ago: About a year ago, I stopped exercising when I felt stressed and started turning to other, less savory, outlets. BAD IDEA. I feel about a million times better when I workout after a stressful day than when I have an emotional meltdown (or a drink). Maybe it took a few months off the wagon to realize this or maybe I'm becoming a bit more rational. I'll chalk it up to running because we all know I am farrrr from rational. Whatever the case though, these past few weeks of running have felt good- physically and emotionally, and I'm excited to keep on going.

It's week 3 and quitting is not an option.