Well, it's finally happened.

I was so proud of myself this past weekend after completing my longest training walk - 8 miles - and doing it by myself despite some obstacles. I took the time to plot out my route, got up super early and went out in the dark and cold.

Well, I was fine the entire time but, when I got home... boy, my feet were killing me. I figured it would improve as the day got on but, it didn't. I tried going barefoot and then shoes... and still no improvement. I was walking like a old lady or disabled person the entire day. And, then I got up Sunday... and things were no better. Sunday, I had to pack and fly to Phoenix for work and that was a challenge. I thought I was going to die while waiting in line for security. So much for my pretty new work shoes I was going to show off to my trainees!

Well, it's now Tuesday evening and my feet are feeling better but, still not back to normal. It's difficult to explain but, it's the outside edges of my feet that get sore. When I sit, there is no pain but, walking and standing are painful, especially first thing in the morning. There is improvement but, it seems to be slow.

Last night I was just wracking my brain as to what could be causing this... my shoes are in good shape. I've never experienced this pain before and two weeks ago I walked 7 miles. After discussing it with Steffer, we figured out that I made the mistake Saturday morning of walking all on sidewalks. I knew I had heard at some point that concrete is much harder than asphalt - which is what I walk on at the Greenway for Group Train - but, I didn't think about that when I plotted my route and took my walk. I will NEVER make this mistake again.

Like I said, it's improving but, I look like a goof in front of my training class wearing work clothes and tennis shoes and walking like an old lady.

But, in trying to look on the bright side.. if I have my first running injury, that makes me a real athlete, right! I'm continuing to lay off training until I'm back to normal... hopefully, tomorrow or Thursday at the latest.