There are only 39 days until I make an attempt to earn a Boston Qualifying time and 11 days until the Pikes Peak Ascent. I've put in tons of work over the last few months, managed at least a half marathon at my qualifying pace, and suffered through the Barr Trail Mountain Race to test my skill on the punishing, steep terrain. Those achievements aside, I still can't wrap my head around the pace I will need to reach Boston or the idea of hauling myself up the entire Barr Trail once again. These both loom over me like not one, but two huge elephants in the room everywhere I go. For the first time, I actually said these goals out loud at the beginning of the season and now everyone knows where I'm trying to go and will most certainly know if I don't make it there. I've found that kind of pressure a bit unnerving and I sometimes wish I'd just kept the goals to myself and let the results quietly fall where they may.

However, I do know that I am very proud of the work I've done to get where I am and I have no doubt that I will certainly, at a minimum, accomplish a PR this year for both the marathon distance and the Pikes Peak Ascent, barring injury or any last minute mental breakdown, which is still solidly on the list of possibilities. I've run more each week that I ever have in my life and so far, managed to avoid any of the nagging, persistent injuries I've pushed through in the past. I'm still woefully inadequate in the area of hydration, but have managed to finally find some fuel that I don't want to barf up during a run. These magic treats are in the form of delicious, non-caffeinated Honey Stingers, which I was grateful to find after insisting that all GU products taste like the nasty paste dentist's use to make molds of your teeth. I'm learning to tolerate a belt for my water bottle, which I decided I needed after spending weeks complaining that carrying one in my hand somehow makes me even slower than I already am. This inevitable argument between not wanting to carry water and also not wanting to die of heat stroke has finally come to an end. I choose life with a crappy water bottle. I suppose. Ugh. As both races rapidly approach, I find myself also struggling to maintain focus and balance, given that most of us never have the opportunity to train for anything without the added pressure of work, family and other outside obligations. Recognizing this fact, I actually embarked on a mini-sabbatical this week while my kids went on vacation with their dad. I packed up my most prized possessions (including lots of running gear) and had my husband assist in carting our travel trailer to the Air Force Academy camping area, which is very near my work. My packing included my two smallest dogs and along with them, I have made this my week of peacefulness where I try to run, write, read and relax. I plan to finally visit a few brew runs which I never seem to have time to attend, enter my office chili cook-off even though I typically hate to cook, host a BBQ with friends and do some painting with my sister. Though I'm continuing to run just as my coach directs, I also know that there is a much more precarious element of training that involves keeping your spirits up and your head screwed on in the right direction. This week, I am honoring that fact and working to keep the stress down and the good vibes flowing. Seems to be working so far, but then again, it’s only Tuesday. Nonetheless, I have faith that I can get where I need to go, no matter how bumpy the ride may be at times. May you also find your own way to reach your goals, enjoy your training and I hope to see you all on the trail soon!