Falling Flat

Sunday morning I laced up my shoes and dressed for the weather.  It was a bit chilly so I wore my new Brooks Running LSD II jacket which is water proof, light weight, and a good wind breaker.  I ended up being dressed a bit too warm by mile 5 as the temperature crept up and so did my body temperature.  Fortunately I was able to remove the jacket, tuck it into it's own pocket, and attach it to my water belt with the built in clip all whilst running.  Also, according to my wife, the jacket is 'pretty'.

I added fuel to my regimen, using a 1/2 packet of the GU Chomps at miles 4.5 and 9 (as well as a cup of cheerios with some almond milk before setting out).  The run was a nice relaxing way to start the day with absolutely beautiful weather.  I ran into an old friend from high school while out, and we exchange pleasantries before he continued on his way at a much faster pace than mine.  That didn't bother me though, he's always been in great shape and I was at mile 12 while he was basically just leaving his driveway.

The remainder of the day went to getting the house ready for my youngest daughter's second birthday party.  I joined my wife and kids at the grocery store and finish up the shopping, helped put the groceries away, put up decorations, prepared food, and picked my mother up for the festivities.  It was a grand time, the kids played, the adults reminisced, and folks heard about my plans to run the marathon in January.

Most people were supportive and some just shook their head at the crazy man.  I got the sense that while most people were being outwardly supportive of the idea, at least a few of them figured it was something I couldn't do, shouldn't do, and shouldn't even try.  It was disheartening to overhear some of the comments made, and I began doubting myself.  Then I remembered that two years ago I couldn't run a mile, now I run 13 with (relative) ease.  I can do this.  I'm not going to win any races, but I damned sure can finish, and that is my goal.

I'm just getting started.