Footprints in the sand

Yesterday at 7am I went for my final run on the beach before heading home to Scotland - that is if it's not submerged under the water following the heavy rains in the last 2 weeks! It was the hottest morning I'd experienced and it took a focused mental effort not to give up and enjoy strolling along the beach like so many others. I realised that the footprints I'd be leaving behind would shortly be washed away and replaced by others. But the memories of a fantastic family holiday will remain. I've given the Marathon des Sables a lot of thought over the last two weeks while running on the beach. I've a lot to learn between now and April and more off road running and sand running will be required to strengthen my ankles and my core as it is very different to road running. The softer sand almost sucks your foot in and that without me carrying 10 kilos on my back! But the rest did me good and my short-term focus is to get ready for the Aberfeldy half ironman in a months time. It's good to be back although the change in temperature and time difference will take a few days to get used to!