Next Stop: Victoria

I finished my last training run tonight.  Just a nice and easy 3K.  I went out on the route that I used to do when I was just starting to get back into running a year and a half ago.  This route used to take me a full 30 minutes of running with a good deal of walking.  There's a hill on this route that used to be excruciating, and it seemed like such a victory the first time I ran up the whole thing.  I have definitely come a long way.  I feel ready.

I've had great runs this week.  On Tuesday, my iPod battery was dead so I talked to myself through an entire 5K.  It sounds a little coo-coo, but it was one of my best runs ever in terms of how I felt at the end.  I told myself, "I can do this.  I have trained for this.  I am ready.  I am strong.  I am tough.  I flew to freakin' China on a one way ticket by myself.  I can finish this marathon..."  I've never really been into affirmations, but after that run, I think I might start doing them more often!

My run on Wednesday was almost as good.  I went out with one of the young volunteers that I work with.  Unlike last time I tried running with an 18 year old guy, he stayed with me and we chatted the entire time.  I've been feeling a little frustrated with work lately, but after our run I remembered why I do what I do.  It's worth the frustration.

I'm hoping to catch a not so late ferry to Victoria tomorrow to have as relaxing a day as possible on Saturday.  The weather report keeps changing so I'm bringing my favourite shorts, capris and pants, as well as a tank, long sleeve and throw away jacket.  I've got my Garmin and iPod charged, but I'm bringing the chargers, just in case.  I'm even bringing an extra pair of running shoes.  I'm sure I'm forgetting something.  Right.  Must remember to breathe.

Thanks for all the tips and well wishes!

I can do this.