Nearing the first complete month of the preparation for 2012, I must say it’s been going very well.  The start of this month I put together a plan that I feel will help accomplish the goals that are set for this upcoming year of running and push myself to the next level. 
Starting out with this team effort, I never made it a big deal to have a finishing time set for myself.  Ever since I had a fellow runner tell me that goals are something you should set and really reach for so you can stay on track with training the right way, I’ve made that a big part of my training sessions.  Focusing on what needs to be done each and every day that includes not just running but also cross training, strength training, mental training with the help of some mentors that have been key to keep me on track plus advice from trainers and other runners that have been through several different events. 
I always keep a positive outlook on the days ahead.  There are days where I feel like I don’t want to work out, but once you get into the gym, all of that seems to fade away.  With the exception of one day this month of being in the gym during a training session, I’ve felt very good.  The muscles are responding well, I feel as though I’m on the right track to move forward to another level this year and look forward to the challenges at hand.
The schedule for 2012 is pretty well set.  It’s not all officially complete, but it will be ready soon.   I know for a fact, I will be running a half marathon in four different states again this year including both Dakotas, Minnesota & Michigan.  This year will also be the first time in four years that I’ll be back on the path to running a 26.2 mile race (full marathon) in Duluth, MN in mid June.  Along with that, the night prior to it, will be a 5K event, totaling 29.3 miles that weekend.  It will be one heck of an experience while getting the chance to run next to my friend Jean from Wisconsin that will also be carrying Old Glory during both races. 

I thank all who have in any way supported this team in efforts to recognize those who deserve it most.  The men and women who have sacrificed to preserve our freedom each and every day. 
To support the organization I’m aligned with, check out www.projectnewhope.net and see what they have to offer.   Instead of a donation, what would be even more beneficial to them would to be to let any war vets you know about this organization and tell them to attend a free retreat sometime.  I’ve heard nothing but positive coming from other veterans who have attended a Project New Hope retreat in Minnesota.  It could help a veteran and his or her family a lot just by being there for a few days. 

Keep up to date with our progress here on this website and blog.  With a busy work schedule and more intense training coming up soon, it may not be a weekly update on here, but I’ll do my best throughout 2012 to provide you with our progress in this blog. 
Good luck in your training if you’re working to accomplish your own personal goals or team goals with others.  Join the team dedicated to serving those who have served us and help us “Run to Remember” our fallen soldiers – Philco’s Freedom Team – Motivation…Inspiration…Preparation…Determination.
One step at a time, we’re getting it done.