Moving, Still

Last January I started training for my first marathon. Last June I started training for my first marathon. Three weeks ago I started training for my first marathon.

This time I might actually make it to the end. Here's why:

- my previous attempts involved makeshift training plans and trial-and-error blood sugar management. This time, I think I've got a better handle on it all. I'm following Hal Higdon's Advanced 1 training plan, even though I'm not supposed to--this plan is not for first-timers. But I think it's the best fit for me, and his easier programs don't feature any speed or hill work, which are already staples of my regular training. I don't want to swap out 'quality' workouts for mere easy miles. I've already trained 3/4 for two marathons, and raced a 30k. I may still be an aspiring marathoner, but I'm an advanced trainer. I'm running five days a week on this plan. I also know how my blood sugars react to various runs--spikes in cold weather, drops in hot temps, fuel needed after 45 minutes--and I'm carrying all the right things (meter, cash, sugar) when I head out. That girl dropping bloodied test strips in the snow? That's me.

- I'm running less races this go-around. It's easy to burn yourself out on short races, particularly if you're me and you're disgustingly competitive and can't comprehend the concept of running a race 'just for fun'. Running fast is the real fun, but it's also draining and makes my blood sugars all wonky. This year I'm only doing Around the Bay before my May 5th marathon, and only because I loved it so much last year. It's also good solid distance training at the right time in my training schedule. Oh, and also because I already signed up for it--the new qualifying corral program really appealed to my competitive nature, not surprisingly.

- I've got my fingers crossed it'll be an easy winter. It might not be as wonderful as last year's non-winter, but the forecast is looking blessedly mild and dry. Whatever snow and ice (and unshoveled sidewalks, jerks) left out there is melting quickly, and today the city is hitting 12 degrees. Double digits! In high school I used to break out the shorts whenever it went above 10 degrees in the winter. Maybe I'll have to reboot that tradition this year. My diabetes seems to like the winter, too. I still don't know why. From everything I've read, it makes sense that my blood sugars should actually drop in cold weather as your body overworks to heat itself. My body, though, just settles in and feels fine. In low temps I don't need to set special basal rates, eat extra carbs (save for long runs), or worry about the unknown. It's a beautiful little break from my disease and makes me love running even more than I already do.

And, finally:

- because I just signed up. For real. For real for real.

See you at the finish line.