Build Up Schedule

I found a pretty neat marathon training site tonight while I was surfing. It is one of the few sites that includes a build-up schedule. The author also says that speed work, hill training etc, are not really needed for the first marathon. It is just mileage, mileage, and more mileage. He also says it is important to be running 25 miles per week for a year prior to starting the actual marathon training - thus the build-up schedule. It looks to me like you would be in good shape to run a half marathon after you complete the build-up schedule so I think I am going to plan a half around that time and then train for the full.

Below is the schedule - it looks like I am going to start around week 3. Last week I ran 14.5 miles, this week should be 16. I will have to sync up to starting my week on Sunday and not Monday - not a big deal. Of course, losing weight will help the effort more!
I am also reading a book that was given to me by my adopted daughter, Kathryn W. called to the EDGE by Kirk Johnson. It speaks a great deal to the mental side of running - this runner ran the Badwater Ultramarathon in Death Valley (135 miles) He was 40 and from what I can tell thus far he had not run in the past - he trained for 18 months. Anything is possible.

It seems like the time is right, lets pump it up a notch.....

A Sad Day

On Friday, I got a call from Doug (my brother) who told me that our niece, Danielle and her father were in an auto accident in Tucson on Thursday. Don was killed, and Danielle is in serous condition. Since then, it seems that Danielle is out of danger and might be going home in a couple of days. Diane was able to get to the hospital quickly to be with Danielle which I am sure really helped.

I must say that hearing of Don's death reminded me of how precious every minute you have here is. It can end at any time.

I will say that the folks at our church have really been sending their prayers to Arizona which I know are being felt.

More to report later.