I am SO excited to see how much Elizabeth has grown in comparison to the parks.
Will she still freak out at characters and fireworks?
Who knows?!?
Will she appreciate more rides?
Who knows?!?!
Just can't wait.
Which brings me to today's title:
51 days until I leave for the Half Marathon in January.
11 days until we leave for our family trip after Thanksgiving.
I had originally planned a daily countdown - but things have been kinda hectic with work and what not, so it's become a little less frequent - but I will do my best to keep posting as we near the holidays.
How am I doing?
Just finished an elliptical workout - and haven't touched the scale since my last post. Won't be until Wednesday before Thanksgiving. Going to see what progress I've been able to make.
I've struggled a bit as we've gotten crazy - but I think on the whole am making better choices where I need to. (Don't mistake me - I've had bumps). But I need to buckle down even more. I am not going to get swept in January. It's been hard lately - emotionally too. Sometimes if you have a bad day, it spirals into two. And I don't have that many days left to get my body ready to do what it needs to in January.
And I'll be honest - I'm scared. Of disappointing myself and the friends and family who believe in me. But that fear is helping drive me forward, I think. And I'll do what I always do - my very best. I'll give the training and the race 150% of what I have in me. I just worry that maybe it's not enough again. That bus sucked. So I just try to push HARDER.
As I start to get into a groove (and admittedly - it's taken longer than I wanted it to - and I still struggle at times) - I want to honestly and personally thank all of you who have stuck with me. And encouraged me. And even held me accountable (even when I don't like your methods - not talking about anyone in particular here - *cough cough mgreene cough cough* - hehehe).
You guys are pretty dang awesome. And as I reclaim what's rightfully mine (my health) - I'm proud to share the journey - the ups AND downs - with you all.
EPCOT AWAITS!
Wow, this post has gone 11 hours without anyone commenting. Is everyone on vacation this week?
ReplyDeleteI think I didn't post earlier because your going to Disney World in 11 days and I have never been there. And you wanted to do a daily countdown. (I'm only joking, I hope you have fun)
I'm also glad your getting back into your training. I will be on the website in January waiting for the announcement of you crossing the finish. Also keep up your training afterwords because I'm saving up to run in the 2013 half marathon.
Okay, here's the deal...I am proud of you - for what you ask? For recognizing that you have flaws, for understanding that you have to keep pushing, for knowing that you have people that care for you and want to see you succeed...All these things will add up to success.
ReplyDeleteNow, for the race in January. You do need to keep pushing the workouts. You have to get used to time on your feet - you have to be ready to be moving for the amount of time it will take to finish the race...AND FINISH YOU WILL!!!
Next thing you have to do is start visualizing finishing the race. Every night before you fall asleep, go through the race in your head, imagine that volunteer placing the medal around your neck, imagine celebrating your finish. Re-write last year's ending - you don't want any negative thoughts in your mind. You are now only allowed to think positive thoughts about the race. Go through mile by mile and remind yourself that you are happy, you see people and characters and entertainment on the course, spectators are cheering you on, as you get closer to the end you're tired but still full of energy and ready to finish strong. Visualization and keeping positive thoughts will take you a long way in this race.
Another thing to think about - find your motivational phrase. Something short but meaningful. Something that can re-route the negativity in to positives. I use "I Can Do It" sang like a mouse from Cinderella of course. Just find something to keep your mind positive and happy.
I know that's a lot to take in, but think about it. Give some of things a try and see what happens. I think you'll surprise yourself!!!
Amanda had some AWESOME advice! Fear is normal, and I'm glad you're using it as motivation. One thing my dad taught me about "stinkin' thinkin'" you know, when you have those BAD days where all the "what ifs" are "what if I don't finish?" "what if I let everyone down?" and getting in the way - try to turn them into a positive. I'm a big fan of literally saying it OUT LOUD. For example, instead of "What if I don't finish?" and letting yourself get fearful, what about robbing the power of fear with the power of "What if I DO finish?" Amanda mentioned visualizing the race - you already know how it feels to be in the sweeper bus. But you don't know how it feels - yet - to make a monster come back! How would it feel to hold your daughter high once you reach the finish line?
ReplyDeleteFor me - it helps to hear my own voice give thoughts like that power. Since you work out alone, why not give it a try? When you're inner voice starts feeding you fear and negatives, have your out-loud voice fight back.
Keep up the great work! Get the time in on your feet and it WILL pay off. :) Focusing on the end result can be pretty overwhelming when really, it's the journey that creates the result in the first place. :)