Beautifully Me: 66 Days Left

...marathon training continues...

Just over 2 months left until the big day and I feel so behind! My training has not been spot on, if anything very sporadic. I was sick for a few weeks and then I think when I got up to go run again I went to far to fast resulting in my right knee bothering me. It could be new shoes too. I've no idea. I'm experiencing the same exact feeling/pain I had in my left one back in September. This one is not as bad and I've not been babying it either. I keep going out there...even if I get stuck walking. I figure the time on my feet equals training too. I'm hoping that my knees just need to build strength. I'm going to practice taping them and see if that helps any as I hate wearing a brace and find it more a hindrance than a help.

Running with Roxie - has basically stopped. I'm struggling enough with just getting myself out that door!!! I'm so far not enjoying the training very much and I find it rather stressful. Perhaps that would be different if I didn't feel like I've 9 weeks left & I'm just getting started. I know I'm not, but that's how I feel...behind. The feeling has put a damper on things. I will try running with Roxie again after I finish this. That is my only goal...JUST FINISH IT!

I sat down last night and did some figuring that I think will help me and get me feeling a little better about this - least I hope so. It doesn't match up to the training plan exactly but it gives me the same recommended weekly mileage and gets me a little closer to being back on track without making up mileage.

I'm not sure I will ever run another marathon. I won't say 'never', because I've no idea. There is one I would like to run someday...hopefully if I ever decide to do it again I will be more prepared and feel a little more ready than I do now.

I really enjoy the 5K's, 10K's, 13.1 and obstacle courses. To me those are do-able. I know a marathon is do-able too. I've seen people do it and I think to myself...well if they can do it. Truth of the matter is its a big deal and I just can't get my head around 26.2 miles!

I haven't given up on it, but I will say this I'll take weight training over marathon training any day! Perhaps my trainer is right...I'm built more for body building vs marathoning. Who knows. I've honestly ZERO desire to look manly or parade around in a bikini to show of my muscles. I do love my muscles, I do enjoy the way things fit me, and when I return state side I want to make heads turn. I want my family/friends to be like, "Is that Tonya!"

I love lifting weights. I enjoy running - to an extent. Perhaps 13.1 is that extent. I may not feel as ready or confident as I'd like, but I will not give up on this. It is yet another challenge to find out just what I am capable of and I will know at the finish line. So keep my short legs in your prayers...we got a lot of miles ahead of us yet.

Now, lets share. Here's some photos of my current accomplishments!