March 2008~ One year ago.

I was plugging away in preperation for the Olympic Trials.  With little fear, and an abundance of excitement I churned mile after blissful mile.  My body was at its best.  With injuries at bay, and the prospect of great things to come on April 20th.  I ran well over 400 miles in the month of March.  I remember a 24 mile run where I expalined to my friend how having run the marathon made me feel like invincible.  I had so much confidence in what I would be able to do, and so many big hopes for the year ahead. 

The trials: My goal from the time I was 11 has been to become an Olympian.  Despite knowing I was far from one of the top 3 women going into the race, there was such a feeling of hope for the future (2012-2016).  I had achieved something that was a huge stepping stone, and it had made me stronger both physically, and in terms of confidence.  I had no idea just how many trials were ahead of. 

April 1 2008: The day the wheels came off.  This was the point where my body had enough.  I couldnt complete workouts, and I didnt enjoy running. 

July 5 2008:finally enjoy running again, despite not being able to race well because of lacking fitness.

Aug 2008: I began experiancing foot pain, and with rest was able to run.

Sept 2008: My foot is broken.  I take time off, and return to training in mid Nov.

Jan 2009: My achilles gets a bump on it, and I can not run, or elliptical on it.  I am on the bike.

Feb 2009: My achilles is getting better, but running on it is not working.

March 2009: Looking back at how much promise I felt only one year ago, reminds me how much we take our health for granted.  March 3rd my achilles (that has been feeling well, and allowing me to run nearly 40 miles a week) goes on me again.  i finish a 6 mile run near tears, with the knowledge that I will be in a bit of pain come morning.  Back to square one.  Im not sure how to over come this, but I am seeking another Dr. to help me get healthy, and Im off running again for awhile.  I want to run well in Twin Cities this year, so I have pleanty of time to heal.  Im antsy, and annoyed that I'm not able to do what I love.  I couldnt have understood how far I would fall in just one year.  With excitement I look forward to the day when I am finally pain free again, and plugging away for an up coming race! 

I dont think Ill ever take my fitness for granted after this year!