Four down, sixteen to go

I can't believe four weeks have already passed since I started training. In that time, I've run about 107 miles, with 500+ to go over the next sixteen weeks. So far, I've managed to keep the knee and buttock pain at bay. I think it's because I still haven't really increased my mileage above 28 miles a week, and I'm doing a little better about regularly stretching/foam rolling. But I'm still very nervous that once I start ramping up my distance, that they'll worsen. Still, that's no reason stop...so onward and upward.

I also got some of my new gear in this week- the early AM/late PM safety vest, roller and a variety of gels/blocks to keep me fueled:

My running supply drawer...stuffed with gels/blocks, mini sunscreen tubes, head lamp/blinking lights, arm band, vest, reflective wrist bands, Bluetooth headset...so much glamour, and all in one place!

This last weekend was particularly exciting because I ran with two friends on the bypass road for the first time. The road is pretty interesting- it's very hilly (my guess is that it's about a 1800-2000 elevation climb), but only about 5.7 miles long...so the grade is pretty steep. There is absolutely no water/restrooms (it's all agricultural), but the shoulders are wide, and the views can be pretty spectacular. I only ran 10 miles that day, of which six were on the bypass. So my goal is to run the entire length of it in the next few weeks. I hope to avoid running back down because...I'm old. My knees don't do well pounding on miles of downhill (though I love it)!

It was definitely very difficult, but *exactly* what I need to prepare for the ultra (which I jokingly refer to as the 'Alps'). My hope is to gradually transition from the short hill repetitions I've been doing, to longer, slower and steadier hill climbs like the bypass route. This should help prepare me physically and psychologically for the race.

At this point, I'm about 20% done with my training, and overall, it's been pleasant. I get to see more run friends, I feel better about myself, I get to eat more. What's not to love? Weeeell, the long runs I suppose. They can be tough in the heat. Now that we start our runs at 4:30am, we've eliminated some of that pain, thankfully. I think my first truly long run is coming up this weekend (16-miler), so I'm both excited and nervous to get it done.

Two other friends and I almost signed up for a last-minute half marathon that has a 3,000 foot elevation climb this weekend, but once we realized it required a 3am wake up call...we changed our minds. It would have been a great challenge, and fun...a rare spontaneous 'mom' adventure, but I also have 2-3 things I need to do later that day, and I didn't want to be walking around like the undead- red-eyed, mean, snarling...

I have adjusted my run schedule a bit here and there, and will be doing more hills, and perhaps only one 26-miler in advance of race day. I think it's best for my overall health/knee, and would allow me to enjoy my time in the Philippines a little better (to drop a long run from the schedule). If all goes well, we should be there in less than two months. :-) It'll be an adventure trying to source out vegetarian fare and safe running routes over there, but I can't wait.