Two Hours

I haven't done a long run since BDR. There's nothing psychological about this...I just wasn't feeling motivated and I was really enjoying sleeping in and taking advantage of not having to run long (i.e., train). Plus, it was still really hot here in December and early January, and I wasn't really feeling a long run in 80 degrees.

This weekend, I knew I was at a crossroads. If I didn't run long, my possible full in February would become pretty impossible. Skipping a chance to do a long run would mean 1) I don't actually care enough to train, 2) I won't be in marathon shape when A1A rolls around. (And I needed to remind myself that even if I "only" do the half, I still need to train for it.)

Friday, Elizabeth surprised me. For someone who still claims she doesn't like running, she's certainly doing a whole lot of it! Her current goal is to run 10 miles, and Saturday morning was my chance to help her make some progress.

I was seriously shocked when she said she wanted to run farther than 6.5!

(As a side note, I'd like to get her to a 5k race so she can experience the atmosphere - I think she'd be in for a half marathon if she could just see what a race is like! I'm still working on her.)

I was a little nervous about this run, but I knew skipping it wouldn't make the nerves go away; it would only make me more nervous when it was time to run long next weekend.

Kristin texted to make sure I was up, and as usual set my mind at ease when I was faced with pointless anxiety.

My plan was to run for two hours; I was hoping to hit 10 miles. I ended up surprising myself because we literally got back to the car at exactly two hours and exactly 10.5 miles.

I ran my first 3.25 miles alone, then met up with Elizabeth. We ran about 7.25 together, then I drove her back to her car. It was fun to hear her reflect on how different a long, easy run feels compared to a faster, harder run. I was really proud of how well she did, and I felt so amazing running long again! Double digits! And it felt great!

I'm not sure what happened at miles 4-6, but I think we slowed down so Elizabeth could warm up (those were her first three miles).

(Regarding my decision for A1A, the race organizers told me I can wait to upgrade at the expo the day before the race, and it will cost $15. So I won't be making a decision about whether or not I'm running the full until the very last minute.)

Dripping with accomplishment!

After my run, I showered and ate a quick breakfast and then hopped in the car. I was Disney-bound! Kristin's first marathon is Sunday and I'm going to finally repay her for being such an amazing running buddy and cheerleader! I am seriously ecstatic to be spectating for her, and I can't wait to see her conquer her first marathon. We all know it's a huge accomplishment and truly life-changing, and I can't wait for her to join the .5% of Americans who have run a marathon.

Finally, I got to meet up with some of my Sub30 buddies, which is always a perk of any destination race. So all in all, I'd call this a good Saturday!

Kim and I finally got to meet in person, which is nice seeing as we've been texting each other for about a year now!

The Disney Sub30 runners & their Sherpas.

Wish Kristin luck as she takes on the Disney marathon Sunday!

ABK