A Bit of Randomness

Here are some topics I would like to write about in the near future:


Nutrition/exercise
Communication
Emotional crap


However, I have not been able to narrow how I would like to write about these. I am asking for your help. Please message me with more specific ways that I can approach these topics (or any other topics that relate to life skills, for that matter). To be honest, I've lost motivation, which is why I have neglected to post anything the past few weeks. HELP! I want back in the game, and I want you to enjoy reading and interacting.


First random paragraph:
To those of you who have commented on this site, I applaud you and THANK you. I can't tell you how much it means to me when I get to read your feedback and encouragement. Please don't give up on me.


Second random paragraph:
I would like to take this time to offer an example of goals and sub-goals, as I failed to offer adequate examples in my last post. My apologies.


Goal: Run a Boston Qualifying Time
(A Boston Qualifier for my division is 26.2 miles in 3:35:00. That's roughly 8:12 per mile pace.) This goal is Specific, Measureable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-oriented (if you have trouble distinguishing attainable from realistic, you're not alone).


Sub-goals/short-term goals/objectives (take your pick):

• Run a half marathon at race pace or faster.
• Develop a level of fitness that allows me to run higher mileage with less recovery time (not very SMART, I know, but I won't know how to measure it until I get there...).
• Run three 20-milers during training without stopping to walk; pace does not matter.
• Remain soda-free for the duration of my training.

I'm following Hal Higdon's Advanced II training program almost to a T. I've already made some adjustments to the schedule, and I'm sure I'll have to make more as my training progresses. Here's what my first week of training looks like:


Monday: 3 mile run
Tuesday: 3xhill
Wednesday: cross-train (probably bike since the only lap pool in town is closed)
Thursday: 30 minute tempo
Friday: 5 mile pace
Saturday: 10 mile run
Sunday: Rest (and maybe ice cream)


This is an 18-week training program that involves two speed work sessions a week, a long run that only gets longer, and pace work, which will help me learn how to run at race pace for longer and longer distances.


I am registered to run the Dallas Marathon on December 13th of this year. Not to be a Debbie Downer, but it's important for me to remind myself that, considering the fact that this is only my second marathon, it may not be as feasible to accomplish this goal this time as it would if I had several marathons under my belt. Nonetheless, I follow a strict philosophy: Go big or go home.


Wish me luck, and share your goals as well. I would love to encourage you as you set your mind to accomplish something great, no matter how small it may seem to others.