What's the story, morning glory?

Wednesday morning I did indeed go out for a two miler and it felt really tough, which was psychologically quite tricky. TWO miles felt tough??? Marathon in three and a bit weeks -uh-oh.  I met up with the Hospice runners Thursday night and following his injury, Duncan said the evening's run was going to be make or break for him - sadly it was break, and as I shook his hand and wished him the best I vowed not to mention my silly virus again - I AM going to run the Marathon and I am grateful for that. At least he can kick back and enjoy little Matilda with his wife. Hopefully see you next year Duncan.

Kevin and Paul were kind enough to run a short four miles with me (OK so they had run 13 miles on the previous Saturday and were about to run from Chelmsford to Colchester, about 22 miles today (Saturday). But it did make a difference running with them and the four miles, while I was happy to stop at that, felt good. They were generous to add that I kept a good pace. My biggest problem, actually were my trainers - (remember Laser Runner, you were asking about my trainers?) Two huge blisters on the insteps of both feet. This has really concerned me. I didn't get any blisters with my previous trainers (Assics nimbus 9's) and suddenly feel a desperate need to get a new pair of those instead. Where I bought them are happy to look into the possibility of an exchange, which if they do I will be really grateful - although an invaluable bit of kit - they don't come cheap! Luckily I kept my old pair and ran in those this morning. No, not 10 miles, just six. It was freezing, windy, snowy and I'm saving the 10 until Monday - following Chris's advice to build up the mileage again slowly.  This morning felt much better so that's encouraging. As I finished and was cooling down an old lady walked past and said "You've inspired me to walk really fast'! 

Another reason for waiting until Monday is that Amy, my trusty running partner is now unwell although I sense she is going to see this off quicker than me. Hopefully she will be better for Monday.

You know, there are thousands of people in this country (and others) who are getting in a pickle about this Marathon. It is such a commitment, such a challenge and so invested with all sorts of various levels of meaning and could be simply blown out of the water by an injury (or a silly virus!). Which means there are thousands more family members, friends, colleagues and you all reading this who are tolerating us lot getting in that Marathon pickle. Thank you.

Oh, and Happy Easter - here's to new beginnings.