Thursday: The end of a DISAPPOINTING day and begining of a FABULOUS weekend

Today couldn't have started out more disappointing. Days of patience, ice, and stretching weren't enough for my knee. I was only able to complete 3 miles before the pain started really bothering me. This "IT Band" strain is more stubborn than I imagined. No running till Monday. Doctor's orders. So I will be joining the prestigious "power walkers" in the mean time. :'( How lucky am I...

However, the silver lining to this day came with the mail. I got a package from my mom with postcards, a letter, and a map from Galveston (a beach in Texas). We go there at the end of each summer as a family and have been doing so since before I was born. BUT being in Australia I missed it. The entirety of the package is now on my wall with my other letters and postcards from friends and family. The mail is always a highlight of my day. I think that may make me a loser?

The rest of my day consisted of school and laying by the pool. Pretty much the norm these days. AND of course while I was at school I went out of my way to go do my stretches on that "cylindrical roller" for my knee...since it works wonders. False.

We are thinking of going back to Irish Murphy's tonight with some more people, but I was also debating on going to see the movie Despicable Me. It's opening night tonight here. Even though it has been out in the US for over a month now. Not fair. But be aware that Harry Potter (in November) comes out here a day earlier than in the US...payback! So I am leaning towards movie night rather than party night since I have to be up for Lamington (rainforest hike) at 6:00 a.m. I've also been dieing to see this movie since everyone has absolutely loved it.

Plans for Byron Bay are still being finalized but as of now, since it is supposed to rain Friday, we are going to leave early Saturday morning. Personally I think this might be better after a long day at Lamington and then we won't have to camp with the possibility of rainfall throughout the night. We'll then have all day Saturday, camping that night, and then all day Sunday. Sounds like a plan.

Thanks everyone who has sent me any type of mail. All of it makes me feel at home.

Marathon Training:
Morning: cereal

Afternoon: bow tie pasta with meat sauce; cantaloupe; strawberry smoothie (Boost)

Night: pb & j sandwich; apple

(water all day)

Workout: 3 miles