Week 5- a bit of a struggle

Started the week with my last morning run before heading back to work. Kristin and I decided to take on a new route with a few hills. We were able to get our 6 in with a decent pace. I'm going to miss these early morning runs. Still trying to convince my body to slow down for when the miles get bigger. Joined my couch to 5k girls after open house for another 2 miles. 

On Tuesday, I decided to join our middle

school cross country team for their workout. It was hot out, and I didn't bring any water with me. I knew this might be an issue on the run. We started out with a nice 1/2 mile warmup followed by their stretching routine. Then we set out for a 4 mile run. The coach told me we would be heading to the "desert". I had no idea what to expect. I was greeted by lots of hills and rocky terrain. Part way through the run, my stomach started growling. I realized that I hadn't fueled my body properly for running after school. Definitely something I will need to work on in the upcoming weeks.

Wednesday was my strength day, and I stuck with Pump Revolution. This is a good fit with strengthening all parts of my body.

On Thursday, I parked my car at my daughter's school, so she could drive home after volleyball. I decided that I was going to try out a new route that included a hill that will be similar to Philadelphia. It was tough, but I will definitely be including it in future runs. I could feel it in my legs the next day, so I know it did its job. 

On Saturday, I had 12 miles to tackle. My running buddy and best friend joined me for the first 7. It's amazing how fast the miles go when you get lost in conversation. I took her on a slight detour of our normal route that included the hill I found on Thursday. For a minute, I thought our friendship might be over. I wasn't sure if I'd take on the hill when I finished on my own. I decided that I need to do everything I can now to prepare for race day. I took on the hill and won. My legs definitely hated me when I got back. I got in a good stretch, foam rolling, and a hot bath in green alcohol. I took snacks along with me just in case I needed them, but I only used one chew along the way. The hydrate from Beachbody's performance line really seems to help replenish electrolytes on my long runs. Hoping that is the case as the miles continue to increase. 

Sunday was a scheduled cross training

Day, so I biked 14 miles while Kevin got in his long run. It gave us a chance to spend quality time together to celebrate being together for a year. I've missed our weekly runs, so I hope this is something we can continue. 

This week made me realize how tough it's going to be to balance work, training, and watching Jadynn play volleyball. I won't always have a lot of time to work with, so I'm going to have to run no matter how hot it is. Another thing I realized was I'm going to have to be very conscious of the foods I eat and making sure that my body is properly fueled through the week. My breakfast and lunch will need to include good carbs since the miles will start increasing next week. Who knew that training would be his tough! I just hope I can get everything figured out and stay on track. I got this! I got this! At least that's what I keep telling myself.