Well, only 4 more weight training sessions after today before heading out to Europe. Today's workout was a beast. But in a good way (it included a 7-mile walk). Also had my hair cut and my beard trimmed. I feel 10 pounds lighter.
The simple truth is that when it comes to our bodies, if you don't use them you'll lose them. If we let them waste away, we'll wake up one morning and realize that we can't run or perhaps even walk, even though we want to. I've learned that my body will do almost anything I ask of it as long as I've given it time to prepare and adjust to the new demands I'm putting on it. I've been able to complete 44 half marathons and 20 full marathons by gradually coaxing my body to go just a little farther every week. And most important of all, whether your goal is to walk for 10 minutes a day or run a marathon, you've got to understand that your body's a wonderful machine, and that you are your own mechanic. No one can take care of it for you.
Each day I get to train or run or climb is a gift, not an entitlement. Each day I can spend as a member of this planet is a day I can treasure. I hope I never take it for granted.