Two weeks in

Day 13 of my training.

I've been mapping out routes around my neighborhood. From my condo to the gym is 1.5 miles. So I can walk to the gym, work out, walk home... and that is three miles. (By the way, walking a mile and a half AFTER working out: WAY HARDER). There is a 3.3 mile loop, also, if I go around by the mall instead of walking back the way I came. I have even included shopping at Best Buy and Target into my walks.

I started adding short bursts of jogging to my walking. It doesn't hurt my legs to run, it hurts my chest. Apparently I am not cardio-ready. So I run lightly until it starts to hurt, then I walk. When my pulse stops freaking out, I run again. Each time I go out, I can run a few more times.

RUNNING CLOTHES

Dana + spandex = SHRIEK!!!!! They have "running skirts", and at first I was hesitant to get one. I'm trying to be a big tough athlete (stop laughing!) and the skirt just seemed kind of prissy, even for me. But at the first team training I attended, several of the ladies were wearing them. So I bought one, and it is REALLY comfortable and I look SO CUTE. Not that my cuteness is important, but STILL!

Cotton is a big no-no, according to the "experts". So that eliminates ALL of my clothes. Including my panties. I have spent the better part of forty years hearing that non-cotton panties were the devil. And now I have to buy some! So, my immortal soul is in jeopardy, but my bottom will not be chafed. Sounds like a worthwhile sacrifice to me.

I also bought a new PINK sports bra, and a PINK running jacket, and a PINK non-cotton tank top. I would really like one of those "Run Like A Girl" t-shirts that Team In Training makes... maybe that will be my next purchase. BUT, I need a hat or visor for running, and a comfortable watch. My shoes feel good, but I guess I will need to go to a shoe expert soon to make sure I've got the best ones for my foot type and my running type.

I also am reading a hilarious book called:
The Nonrunner's Marathon Guide for Women: Get Off Your Butt and On with Your Training by Dawn Dais. It is really funny and inspiring. I feel much less inadequate reading about Dawn's journey.

Fundraising Update: Up to $460! That makes me nearly 15% of my goal! The fundraiser is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, August 12 at Hamlin Pub in Clarkston. More details to come!

As my trainer, Tammy, likes to say,

Smiling and Miling,
Dana