End of Week One!

Well, the first week is over, and so far I haven't died! That's a good start, if I say so myself. What has really pleased me so far is no shin splints, which have been a big issue in the past.

I am really surprised and encouraged by how many people are cheering me on. This is what I needed, and undoubtedly will need if I am to succeed. So, keep asking, keep bugging, and like I said before, keep me honest.

I'm pleased to say that there are a few others who are interested in joining in -- big sis Ruth, John S -- the more the merrier, I say. Of course, it will be a while still before I will be able to show my face in a group for training. I need to get through that embarrassing (wheeze, cough, wow that's a new place for a cramp) phase.

The weather is changing, so I'll have to start thinking about running in the rain soon (ie, tonight).

One last thing, Monty is really happy, and seems to be getting over the fact I'm running! Seriously! The first night out the look in his face was one of stunned confusion. AHHH, to be interesting to the dog.

TTFN - off to put on my trainers, as the English would say.

DAY ONE

Okay...Okay...Here I go.

It all started innocently enough. "Al...I'm thinking of running the 1/2 marathon this year. Are you in??"

Now, for those of you who know me, you'll know that I may be know for many things, and one of those is the love of food. I am most surely not known for my running!

But, Al said, "Sure. Sounds good. I need to do something more than hockey once per week."

D'OH!

But surely Al will forget...won't he??

Nope. No, no, no, and no. The very next day, Tami reports back that Al is walking the 5 km to and from work. And he is motivated! Buying new running shoes. Buying running magazines.

Okay, testosterone and type A personality competetiveness starts to kick in. I'll do it. I'll really do it.

So, tonight, I strapped on the (pristinely clean 2 year old) running shoes, and set off. I am really pacing myself -- you know...2 minutes walk and 1 minute run, and increase slowly. But I did it.

So motivated am I that I even registered for the 2009 1/2 Marathon in Vancouver (May 3, 2009). I have a LOONNGG way to go, but today (hopefully) is my first step.

Stay tuned!