I was so excited to start running again.  I've seen so many people out enjoying the weather and running.  This morning, I got up at 6:00.  I was ready to go.  I stretched really good, walked up the hill and started running.  Oh my heck!  Everything felt good except my IT band.  UG.  I pushed through the first half mile, stretched a little, turned around and started back.  I walked and ran - it took me 15 minutes.  I decided to call it an end to running.  I went home and got my bike.  I biked for about 4 miles - really pushing it up the hills.  It felt good.  Thank goodness I have a bike.  I just needed to be outside!

I'm frustrated with my IT band.  I'm afraid my marathon pushed it to the limit.  I'm going back to what I know I should be doing.  Stretching and strength training.  I'm going to stretch four times a day.  I'm going to do strength training on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  I'm going to ice after I've used it.  I'm going to use the foam roller on it before I stretch in the morning and at night.  I'm going to go to physical therapy once a week and check on it's progress.  I'm not signing up for the half marathon on my birthday weekend :(  I'm going to have a healthy IT band.  It's going to take time.  I'm going to pray for patience :)

I'm very grateful to have my bike and I'm able to keep my legs moving.  I'm worried about losing my wind - if that sounds crazy let me explain.  I can run now and not get winded.  I know that not running for over a week is going to end that.  I will be winded when I run next.  Oh well.  It will come back!