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Fun Facts Friday - Thoughts on My Half Marathon Training

Fun Facts Friday
Today is my second (gasp) rest day of the week. But, I'm not complaining mind you. I know it's absolutely necessary so that I'm better prepared for tomorrow's race (Soaring Wings Half Marathon) ...um run.

I'm trying really hard to not let nerves get the best of me. I know I have the mileage down. I'm not worried about that. I just get myself worked up being competitive with myself for starters. Yes, it's really stupid. I know this. My brain just doesn't know.

I'm actually a little worried about the temperatures tomorrow to be honest. It's supposed to be about 40 degrees at start time (8 am). I've not been training in colder temps - we haven't had them really. The coolest it's been when I've started my runs has been about 55 degrees, sunny, and then a quick warm up.

Tomorrow it's not supposed to be warming up quickly, or that much. It is supposed to be sunny at least. That will help make it feel warmer I know. But I worry about over/under dressing. But even more, I worry about how the cold will affect my breathing.

And I have to say, I'm not absolutely dreading tomorrow mind you. I am sort of excited. I've worked really hard. It'll also be nice to do 13 miles on a new route (no threat of geese). Oh, and to say I have a running partner is a mild understatement - from running solo to running with thousands.

As a way to not dwell on the race aspect, I thought I might just highlight what this round of training has brought about for Fun Facts Friday:
  • Many many miles - some bad, mostly good
  • New personal distance record - 14.4 miles
  • Confidence in my ability to push myself - thanks to all the solo miles
  • Some aches and pains and bloody toes - definitely reminded me I've been working hard
  • Lots of early morning runs to avoid the heat - loved the sunrises
  • Some running in the rain, and sprinklers
  • Rocking out to my music - hello air drums to the runner's high beat
  • Camaraderie with other runners along the way - love the runner's nod/wave
  • Interesting tan lines
  • Wore out one pair of shoes
I will also say that all the running has made me realize how much I do love and currently miss my more structured/heavier weight workouts as well. Love letter to legs: Dear legs, get ready for next week!

So, what has training taught you - whether it was for a race, fitness comp, even finishing a degree.

By the way, tomorrow I will have two things to celebrate so don't forget to visit me for an awesome giveaway!

Liebster (say what?) Award
And, I can't forget to thank Sheridan from "Vegan in Arkansas" for giving me a super sweet award yesterday: The Liebster Award. I recently discovered Sheridan's blog from another fellow Arkansan (Jenny at Vegan and So Forth). Hopefully Sheridan and I will get to meet up sometime.

The word “Liebster” is German for ‘dearest’ or ‘beloved’ but it can also mean ‘favorite’.

The idea behind this award is to bring attention to bloggers who have less than 200 followers.

So the rules are as follows:
  • Show your thanks to those who gave you the award by linking back to them.
  • Reveal 5 of your top picks and let them know by leaving a comment on their blog.
  • Post the award on your blog.
  • Enjoy the love and support of some wonderful people on the www!

I decided to pick either some of the newer blogs I have found or ones that you may not know about and should. And please feel free to share some of your new favorite blogs as well please!

Corey at Learning Patience
Betsy at Blooming Platter of Vegan Recipes
Lisa at Healthful Sense
Lindsey at Cardio Pizza
Krissie at A Philly Nerd Girl


Daily To-Enjoy List
  • The fact that it's finally Friday is enough isn't it???
  • Sunshine
  • Rest day

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