The Winter of Discontent

Seriously?! Sick again?! I've been sick more this winter than I have been in the last ten years, combined! First, January had the whole family sick with influenza. I'm talking the same thing that knocked out entire Spanish colonies, the same thing responsible for the death of millions of Native Americans, the respiratory disease from hell! two weeks of high fevers, no energy, about a month and a half of coughing, absolutely awful. Obviously, I had no extra energy for running. Then, mid February, I started feeling much better. I ran exactly three times, then *BAM* hit with Norovirus, an equally horrible stomach bug. Two days of constant vomiting, and about four days till I felt like I could run again. It's been smooth sailing since then. The days are getting longer, the snow piles are shrinking, and I've been able to start spending more time outside. All good, right? Nope. A couple days ago, I started getting a little sniffly, and thought it was the changing weather causing my allergies to go a little goofy. Today, I started getting a little bit of a headache. Now, chills, ear aches, sore throat, etc. Luckily, I've got a rest day today, so I can wallow in misery, and hopefully be better tomorrow. OK, enough bitching. I got a few really great-feeling runs in this week, and I'm looking forward to a little longer run this weekend. I have a 7 miler planned. I'm really enjoying my training, even though I'm still struggling with both endurance and speed. Luckily, I have a while till my big race, and I'm not too concerned with my placement, so long as I finish. Well, the kids and dinner are calling. Till next time, I'll see you on the trails!