Back to Square One...Again

It seems like years since I have been able to run. A persistent nagging knee problem and issues with my feet have kept me standing still. I miss the "me" time, I miss the feeling of the cold Chicago wind biting my cheeks and the snow crunching under my feet.

If there can ever be a positive to getting laid off, it is having time to do physical therapy. I was supposed to do 8 weeks of physical therapy months ago but I could never find the time. Either work kept me busy or running around with the 3 boys. After my "opportunity" to take time off appeared, I figured now was the time.

I have spent the past 8 weeks, 3x/week trying to correct all that was wrong. The various medical terms are written on a piece of paper and I have stacks of exercises. I have Voltaren Gel (which is amazing!!) for the knee pain and nitroglycerin patches as well. Seems a little odd to be using nitroglycerin for my knees but it worked. And doing some Bikram Yoga probably helped as well.

I finally got the green light to start running and another 6 weeks of therapy. I am so afraid of damaging my knees again I will start off with pool running. Plus running outside in sub zero temperatures is never appealing.

So I am back to square one, almost like I never tried running. That part bums me out but at least I have the knowledge now to prevent injury. And my new goal for my next marathon will be a sub 5 hour time. Dream Big!

Back in the Saddle or Should I Say Stinky Running Shoes?

I did it. I entered the lottery for the Nike Women's Marathon in San Francisco and honestly never thought I would get a spot. Imagine my surprise when I found out I was indeed registered.

Immediately I was shocked and panicked. I haven't run in months, conveniently using previous injuries as an excuse. My knees still ache, my balance isn't corrected, I am not fast enough, well you get the picture.

On the positive side, how often can I run in San Francisco? How often will I get the excuse to go away with my husband without the boys (translation: never). I have to make this trip worthwhile. I have to do everything right so I can finish strong.

I went online and looked for the training schedule that would fit my current state (lazy, attached to the computer, slug type athlete). I couldn't find anything that fit that description (although don't think I am not planning on creating one when this is done), I opted to follow Hal Higdon's plan for novices 2. This is my 8th marathon, my 2nd in California. I am definitely not in the shape I was for any of the previous marathons. And let's be honest, Chicago is flat and California has some killer hills.

Already I started with excuses. I can't do this week I have too much work to do, taxes to finish, excuse, excuse. I am prepared to start on Tuesday of next week. I hate that I am doing it slow but I can't afford to blow out my knee again. Plus we have about $1600 (gulp) in travel expenses on the line.

So here goes, attempt #305 to get back in shape and back in the training mode.