Yesterday was Easter, a day my family typically celebrates with family. We don't do much, usually heading to my brother-in-law's house and spend some time with his family.
But yet again, Covid is keeping us home.
This past week has not only been about the Passion and reflecting on Christ's journey (if you are a Christian) from honored guest, celebrated as he entered Jerusalem last Sunday, to his crucifixion and burial on Good Friday, and resurrection Easter Sunday.
For my family, we have prepared to reflect on the 31st anniversary of my father's passing. To add insult to injury, he died on April Fools' Day.
I've written a little before about my dad. He was a good provider, but sometimes he was not the best father. He was pretty critical, and not very helpful. He motivated us by criticizing us.
Not the best of influences.
So, Easter, the anniversary of my dad's death, the stresses of working retail, and throw in some pretty wacky hormonal ups and downs...this week has really sucked.
This past weeks' workouts are beginning to get a little more difficult. Longer runs and rides. Focused workouts on strength, and hills.
It took a lot of mental fortitude to get through the last 2 workouts this weekend.
Saturday, I needed to go for an hour and 20 minute run. I just needed to get in the time. I did not need to worry about speed or finding hills, or focus on cadence. Just go for a run.
I did not want to go for a run.
I felt like crap.
I woke up with a splitting headache. I felt bloated. I got my period. Everything just hurt.
I went for a run anyway.
It was not a pretty run, but I got it done.
The software my coach uses to schedule my workouts provides a space where I can comment on my workout, letting my coach know what worked, what didn't, how I felt, etc.
I told her exactly how I felt (terrible), where my head was at (it hurt, thinking about Easter, my dad, getting my period), and that I did not want to run.
As I finished that run, I knew it was a successful workout. It didn't matter speed or distance. The fact that I completed it was the victory. I overcame all the excuses and got it done. I needed to get over it, and get on with it. That mental strength is what is going is get my through the tough spots during the IM.
Sunday, I felt better, but still had a tough workout. Two hours on the bike trainer is not enjoyable. It was not necessarily a difficult workout, but for some reason, my legs just did not want to spin. It was a struggle to move the legs. My ass hurt. But just like Saturday, I got it done.
On both occasions, my coach provided good positive feedback--suggestions for things to work on, and praise for getting it done even when I didn't want to.
Boy does that feel different...and good.
With a rough week behind me, I relaxed for a little bit, watched some hockey (Red Wings Win!) and then prepared a nice, simple Easter dinner.
Also this weekend, a friend of mine cheered on her sister as she rowed a marathon. Yes, she sat on a stationary rowing machine, and rowed 26.2 miles. My friend and a couple others rowed with her, taking turns and cheering her on all the way.
Their motto was, "We are not quitters (we are idiots)".
I think that may be my motto for this year.
Because taking on an IM is a little idiotic...but I am not a quitter!
Bring it on!
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