Dec. 16, 2007 - Sunday - Complete Rest Day
(Dec. 15, 2007 - 17 min. run/walk - 29 degrees? - wore Sugoi hooded cling top, thigh socks, sports bra, white sport tank, grey (wool?) knit pants, zip hoodie)

(12/15) Got sick. Not sure if it was the weather from the last run, or getting all wet and sweaty, or a combination of things. Above the neck with stuffy nose and sore throat. Drinking Emergen-C's by the packet full, and spraying that truly awful Zicam inside my cheeks. Terrible. Checked the internet, which said that you can train with above the neck symptoms, so I did. Time was short, and I wanted to be at least a little cautious, so I cut the training short. I almost turned back at the beginning, because of the cold, thinking I could run the next day. I'm glad I didn't give in. I compromised, when I was cold after first going out. Went back to add the socks to my wardrobe, as I didn't want to take any stupid chances running with a cold. It was a good training, though with more running than walking. Felt my speed pick up after watching those running videos with Dagan and getting a sense of the technique for marathons. Also loving the Sugoi top that Dagan surprised me with. Works like magic for keeping you just the right temperature, dryness, etc. Feeling more and more like a runner every day. Using this time to explore my nature as a runner and learn how to anticipate what my body needs in order to be successful.

The "HOME" mantra has become a fixture in getting me to keep running all the way to my stoop at the finish. A lot of the time, I pick up speed at the end. I imagine this to be the last 385 yards to the finish line - passing the 26 mile marker and starting up the "HOME" mantra as I kick it in.

After training, I was glad I'd gone out, even for a short time. I knew I would be glad the next day that I'd taken my run, and that I would have regretted it if I hadn't. Partied with the Buddhists afterwards. Everything was all clean and vegetarian and alcohol free and over by 10ish. The perfect event to hang out at, if you're training for a marathon.

(12/16) Today is the one complete rest day I allow myself each week. I get to lollygag and ruminate and catch up on bad TV. Make casseroles with friends. And above all - not exercise. Mental and physical recovery. I do meditate, of course. Been thinking about ways to spread the benefit of this process. Maybe run to raise money for my next show, or for Three Jewels, the dharma center where I study.

Starting to realize the importance of scheduling my runs, and of getting the right gear to make it through the winter. Spent a lot of the morning researching running apparel and heart rate monitors. It strikes me that I stand somewhat impaired in matters regarding all functions of the heart and would do well to seek outside technical assistance.

My Bew Year's Resolution for 2008 is the 27 hour day. I've often felt that, if I had just 3 more hours in a day, I could accompllsh all the things I desired. So I'm starting now, rooting out all the little habits and tendencies that siphon precious minutes from my day - starting from when I wake up. Preceded by what I do before I sleep.

Sunday = read about racing, study the dharms, spend some time with friends.

Going to keep this as my race research day, so I stop procrastinating with it during the week. Have to start thinking now about my post-race plan - dry clothes, snacks, water, ice packs, stretching, meditation, etc. Yes - pre- and post-race checklists are key. water, energy gel, etc.

This is hard. I keep wanting to run today or do something physical. Must.resist.