Running on the River

Today was our 4th group training -- 5 miles. I have to say I was more than anxious about how this would go. After last week's 5k and the lousy weather we've had lately, I really didn't know what was in store. The weather held up nicely and we only experienced a few sprinkles about half way thru but they were a welcome relief as the temps weren't quite as cool as I had hoped for. I mapped out a route that was a "bit" more challenging than our usual, flat laps around the St Jude campus. We ran the Auction Street bridge over to Mud Island, did 3 miles on the trail parallel to the river (it was gorgeous, even on a cloudy day!) Then back over the bridge and back to campus. My 1st run up the bridge was tough. Here lately, I don't find my rhythm until after the 1st 2 miles. But, on the way back over, I ran the entire uphill and coasted (not walked) down the other side. I finished slow but strong. This was just the success I needed after last weekend which taught me that you must respect the miles. Whether they be short or long, if you're not prepared, it's gonna be ugly. The 5 miler today taught me that even though I have a lot of work to do, I CAN DO IT! Whew!!!

The rest of the team did awesome! Only 6 of our 18 members made it out today but what we lacked in numbers, we made up in enthusiasm. Everyone left feeling proud and accomplished -- the bridge was a killer. We felt like we climbed Everest! On an early, humid morning a speed bump would have been enough. I was very proud of them too! Whether I have a right to or not, I feel like a mother hen when it comes to my team. Their successes are my successes and their failures are my failures. Fortunately, there have been no failures -- this is a great group and they are more than willing to put the work into their training. It's exciting!

I had hoped that Mark would have been able to join us today. One of the greatest feelings in this whole process is that I will running this half marathon with my husband. But, unfortunately Ian came home from school yesterday with a cough and a fever. We suspect it's the flu -- we will be taking him to the Dr. shortly to find out for certain.

Hopefully, next week's report will be just as encouraging. I will no longer underestimate 3 miles so anything can happen. Stay tuned but for now...

Gotta run!
Lisa :-)

1st Group Training Session

Our 1st group training session was held Saturday at 8am on the St. Jude campus. The weather was absolutely gorgeous! There were scattered T-showers in the forecast but it was sunny and slightly cool at the start. We were scheduled for 2 miles -- 2 laps around the campus. Of our 15 members, 8 showed up -- a great turnout considering this is a holiday weekend.



Training went well and everyone had a good walk or run. What an inspiration to run at the very place we are raising money for. It has really helped my running to not only have a longer distance to be training for but a cause and a purpose behind it. Who knows, my marathon days may not be over after all.



I'm really looking forward to more group walks/runs and helping the kids at St. Jude. But for now...



Gotta run...

Lisa :)

www.mystjudeheroes.org/rundream