Who knew pain could feel this good?

   Monday, Monday, Monday. . . Oh how we loathe them. It’s time to go back to the office, the grind, the work week. For me, it’s a great day. Mondays start the cycle all over again and that gets me pumped up every time. They are a chance to begin over, relax, run easy, and build energy for the big run to come. Every Monday gets me closer to the big day. (Which, HOLY COW, is very soon! It's hard to believe how fast it’s coming!) It can also be a great tell tale of what I need to do better and how I need to improve.
   Today was a three mile run through the neighborhood. A three miler at this point should be a walk in the park for the most part, so if I struggle, it’s pretty definite that something is off. This afternoon was great. The run felt good. I was so happy to be at it again. My legs were a little stiff, but they always are on Monday. They loosened up nicely as I got going. I could definitely feel a subtle reminder that I slacked on my cross-training however, and my hydrating as well. The run did take me longer than normal and I was a little more tired. That is a sign to me that my body is thirsty. Is anyone seeing a pattern in the struggle to stay hydrated here? This should not be as hard as it is for me. To force myself to be better, I think I’m going to duct tape a water bottle to my hand. Hmmm, this may make piloting a boat very awkward! Let’s see how it goes. . .
   As I was saying before I so rudely interrupted myself. . . The run felt great. One problem I haven’t been able to find a solution to is the start. If anyone experiences this or has solutions, I beg you, tell me your secrets! That is the hardest part for me. I’ve mentioned before that the first few miles are a bit tough, but the first one, heck, the first half mile, is torture. My legs scream at me. It’s like a kid throwing a temper tantrum. I constantly have to say to myself (sometimes out loud, which is very awkward if someone is out walking their dog or doing something nearby) that it will be ok in a few minutes. The blood will start flowing, the muscles will calm down. But for that first mile, I want it all to end. When I do my local run it helps that there is a traffic light after about a quarter mile out that I have never once seemed to catch green and I use that opportunity to re-stretch a little, which helps sometimes, but it is still tough. When it goes away however, the feeling is wonderful. I feel powerful. I am happy with myself for getting up and doing it. I feel better that I have pushed myself, and I feel rewarded for committing to help myself. It’s awesome. Who knew pain could lead to such happiness?