So I’m a week+ out from the Pocono Marathon, and feeling pretty good. I also recovered from that brutal trail run on Sunday … I felt real great that I came in 12th place, but then found out that there were only 29 people in it…… well, kind of burst my bubble a bit about how well I did, its a little silly. Either way, it was a well put together run and I enjoyed it. I’m looking towards the Valley Great 8 this weekend (Saturday), hopefully i’ll recover fast enough to walk the stage for my graduate diploma that afternoon (i’m sure i’ll be fine, just a little hectic I guess).

I got out for a 5 miler this morning, i’m following the concept that I need to take it kind of easy for the next few weeks since i’m not formally training. I want to enjoy the runs/races I have right now because before you know it, it’ll be hard-core training again. I am gearing up to get the bike I acquired ready (needs air in the tires and a test run), and I started my weight workout yesterday. I’m not as sore as one would thought, but I did realize that I lost alot of upper body strength in the last 8 months since I last lifted weights. I struggled. But it gives me something to work for. I’m actually eating much better than I ever have, because I realize how easy it is to put on weight when you don’t pay attention to what you’re eating (remember the waffles, pop-tarts and fruit cups back in March???) …

I’m feeling good and looking forward to my upcoming race appearances, and am getting the mindset together to set a goal for the Steamtown and second fall marathon. Its difficult when I have a 3:54 in my pocket now, how do I go about beating that time? Its all in the planning I guess.

I did finish up the training plan, although I have to add a little more speed work to it. I based it on the Hal Higdon plan overall (5 days a week), with my longest week being 55 miles. I may increase that slightly, i’m not sure. I also want to add some Pfitzinger speed work from the Advanced Marathon book. Basically i’m building my own plan based on their plans, seems to be working well. I figure also if I crosstrain on Mondays, and lift weights 3 nights a week (light weights, remember, I don’t want bulk, just tone), I’ll be okay.