Fabulous run to sad Sunday

Yesterday morning I had my first 8 mile run for my 1/2 marathon training. I had never run 8 miles in my entire life and I have to admit I was a little scared to try. I woke up yesterday with the temps in the low 60's, which is perfect for a run. I tend to run about a 12 minute mile, so I knew it would take me at least 90 minutes to run the 8 miles. I actually finished in 1 hour and 43 minutes, and felt AMAZING when I was finished. I know getting my first 8 mile run in was a little bit psychological, and I'm glad the first one is behind me. I totally felt great the entire run! When I hit about mile 5, I knew I totally had at least 3 more miles in me. I only have a couple of short 3 mile runs on my schedule for this week's training, and I can't wait for my next run.

Also in the last week of my fitness challenge. I've lost 10 pounds so far over the first 4 weeks, and don't think that will change any for this week. However, I've really noticed the change in my body more than any actual weight loss. Most of my dress pants for work are now too big and I really need to buy a couple pairs of running shorts in a smaller size again. Still being very careful with my carb intake, but know the next few days will be a bit of a struggle.

My great aunt Jane passed away this morning. She had been in the nursing home suffering from Alzheimer's and lost her fight today. I know she is in a much better place now, but that doesn't make me miss her any less. She was such a wonderful and special lady. When I was growing up, my sister, cousin and I would go spend a week every summer with Jane. She totally spoiled us rotten the entire week. We got to spend time at her apartment pool, go to any movie we wanted to see, pick out all the food for the week at the grocery store, and usually make at least one trip to the Space Center in Huntsville. Jane worked there for years and it was one of my favorite place to visit when we were at her house. After I moved to Nashville, I would go down and visit Jane on the weekends. We would visit with many of her friends and go to movies and the Space Center, much like we had when I was a kid. I'm so glad I have all these special memories of Jane.