Things were right in the universe. I continued training and the donation forms continued to trickle in on a daily basis.

My mileage was growing and with just nine weeks left until the marathon, I had completed an eight mile run.  It wasn't easy, completing all eight miles.  At the two mile mark my legs were already feeling pretty sore but I battled through it.  I did stop to walk briefly at mile four because I found a dollar bill on the ground.  Boy... money was coming from everywhere!!!  This must have been the Universe's donation!  The last mile was really tough but I knew that I had to be able to finish this run strong as tomorrow would be a cross training day.

Something else happened on this run that continued through many of my other runs.  Cars were honking at me as they passed.

They did this, not because I was in their way, but they were doing this as a sign of support.  Since I had been telling everyone what I was doing and I was running locally, many of my supporters saw me train.  I liked this support as it would reinvigorate me and remind me why I was doing this.  It was for the community.

My knees felt good during the eight mile run.  I had heated them up before setting out and iced them down afterwards.  It looked as if my doctor was correct and they no longer seemed to be an issue.

The fundraising also continued to do well.  We were a little behind pace, still brining in only about $75 per week, however, there were alot of members that hadn't donated anything yet and I had received alot of promises from them as well as family members, that they would make donations.   I wasn't concerned.  I knew we would hit our mark.

Training continued with a ten mile run the following week, which was very difficult.  I ended up walking every 2 miles on that one which was fine.  I expect to walk every mile or so during the marathon and I was also told that walking would help my muscles recoop a bit. 

My mileage was increasing and my donations kept coming in.  Things were good. It was time to start planning a trip into Boston to check out those Newton Hills.

Stay tuned for What Was I Thinking (Part Nine)

What Was I Thinking (Part one): In the Beginning 
What Was I Thinking (Part two): Goodbye Reality
What Was I Thinking (Part three): The Point of No Return
What Was I Thinking (Part four): Super Dave
What Was I Thinking (Part five): My Follow Through
What Was I Thinking (Part six): The Rise of Marathon Martin
What Was I Thinking (Part Seven): Doctor, Doctor.... Give Me The News