First, let me apologize for not updating the blog last week. I came down with something like the flu, but tested negative. I tell ya, it's the sickest I've been since I was little.

Well, there's good that comes out of everything, right? Not only was I forced to take it easy last week, but I dropped about 5 lbs. I'm feeling pretty good going into the Marathon this Sunday, except for a lingering cough, but even that's getting better everyday.

I noticed Dave has a great write-up on "Mental Toughness" on his Blog. I'm trying to mentally prepare myself for that "moment" in the marathon ("the wall") when your brain tells you to "STOP DOING THIS". I hit that point in Shamrock last year about mile 24. I'm going to try to eat more during the race, hopefully the weather will be perfect. and the thought of pigging-out after the race will be enough to get me over (or through) the wall.

We're getting into a great time of the year for running. Seems like there is a local race just about every weekend. Judging from early registration numbers, this year's Ashland Railroad Run will draw a big crowd. We recently found out that Blue Ridge Mountain Outdoors Magazine has added the Railroad Run to it's tour to promote healthy living. They will be at the race with door prizes and lots of freebies. Should be a great event.

I'm sure Dave will have a great race report on B&A (hopefully with some video footage). I'll also let you know how we all fair.

Thanks to all that have emailed me about the blog. I'm thankful to everyone that reads this stuff.

Well, nothing left to do except eat a bunch of carbs.

See ya on the streets,
Tom