Mrs. F is down for a couple of weeks; challenge for next 5k

Mrs. F had a scheduled surgical procedure this morning.  While taking care of business, the doctor noticed something unusual, and ended up doing a little extra work.  It was nothing about which to be alarmed--just something odd enough to catch the doc's attention and have her conferring with her colleagues.  As such, Mrs. F will spend a night in the hospital for observation, and, based on the weather reports and the fact that we don't have air conditioning, I'm guessing she'll be much better off (and more comfortable) there. As such, though, she won't be running for at least a couple of weeks.

As for me, I'm oddly numb and stressed at the same time.  I did fine at breakfast, but because I was in to work an hour earlier than normal, I was really hungry and overate at lunch.    The kids are all at home (the eldest two are holding down the fort), and we're due for severe weather this afternoon.  I want to visit Mrs. F, but am also concerned about leaving the kids if bad weather does break out (I work only a half-mile from the house, so I'm close enough during the day for any issues that require immediate attention).

As some of you may know, I started a savings account this summer to start saving for a canoe.  One of our friends and neighbors, who also follows this blog, offered me a wager I can't refuse.  If I shave three additional minutes off my 5k run time at the Chaska Turkey Trot (coming up in November)--meaning a new personal best of 37:45 or better--she'll contribute $20 to the canoe fund.  I told her that she had best write the check and set aside the funds now. I always see bets like those as taunts that say "I don't think you can do this--enough that I'm willing to put money on it." That's probably not her motivation, but that's how I respond to such things, as if someone is telling me I can't do it.  Well, for me, that's a nearly certain way to guarantee I do something.  I love proving people wrong (yes, I'll admit it), and proving I can do what people think might not be possible.

Right motives or not, I need to work on my speed before November.