Another Long Run...yes please.

 Some workouts require putting mind over matter. I know I can run 16 miles, but it takes some gusto to take the first step. It’s especially hard to get started when, after all these weeks, it’s still real cold out.

That is today’s story. I didn’t try anything fancy or create any wild route. I just tried to hit a rhythm and stick to it.

The first few miles were pretty straightforward. By the time I got to miles 5–7, I was on the other side of the river, so the scenery created a bit of a distraction. I still felt good heading into mile 10, but needed to tell myself, “Only 6 more miles.”

In the distance, I saw the flashing lights of police cars, which pushed me forward to investigate. Just a traffic stop or something more interesting? At 3 a.m., I suspected something more interesting.

They were outside Olive Garden. Maybe someone wanted some more breadsticks. I know I could have done with a breadstick or two.

The last 5K (3.1 miles) of the run are always the hardest mentally and physically. My feet felt sore. My calves were tightening up. But my breathing felt normal, and cardio-wise I felt surprisingly relaxed.

I tried not to peek at my watch, but it’s tough not to. I felt like the kid in the car who keeps asking, “Are we there yet?”

When all was said and done, I felt wiped out but accomplished. I started my recovery celebration immediately with an English muffin and sunflower butter with honey. I cleaned up, crawled into my sleeping bag, and fell asleep for a few hours before starting the day for a second time.

I finished this week with 62 miles in the bank—pretty good.