training...training...training...

Run: Smooth and tiring at the same time. 6 miles. 51:04 total time. 8:20 min/mile pace. 570 Calories.

Well, my training is sort of up and down these days. I have been sick, going through this divorce, and work is interupting-but-I am still getting in those miles to train for the United States Air Force Marathon. This past week I've ran 34 miles. 10 on Sunday, 18 on Wednesday, and 6 today. My calves are really tightening up. Does anyone know of good stretches or ideas to help out with them? I have a feeling if I don't start loosening them up now, they are going to cramp up during the marathon. I saw it happen to this guy during the Rome marathon and it looked SO painful. I'd like to avoid it as much as possible.

I keep finding more and more running trails out here in Grand Forks, ND. My runs seem to get better and better because I'm always on the search for something new to find. Running in a new area is proving to be quite the adventure. The dogs are starting to get up on their mileage too. They ran the 6 miles with me this morning. Here is an example of the trails that I am running on. Most of them are paved so they can be hard on the knees, but they get the job done:) The views are beautiful and there aren't a lot of people around so I frequently get lost in thought while I'm running. It really is enjoyable.