20 miles

I was pretty sure that I was going to end up running in the rain today. And that was indeed the case. I layed in bed for awhile, hoping it would stop, but it didnt. Until today, I have NEVER ran in the let, let alone a long run of 20 miles. But I knew that this would be great preparation incase it rained on race day.

And so out I headed. Last night I made plans to meet up with my friend Erika's husband, Tim, at mile 10, and he would run the last 10 with me. I was running an out and back course on a road by my house, and I had dropped water in two spots and gatorade in one. I recently discovered Shot Roks and those have become my fuel of choice. One Rok everyone 3 miles or so really helps me feel not hungry and satisfied. And they dont mess with my stomach at all. They are wonderful. Will definitely be using those during Kalamazoo.

I felt really good for the first 10 miles. It rained for about 7 or 8 of those miles, but the temperature was 60 degrees, and the rain for the most part was a light warm rain (with the occasional downpour). I wore my long sleeve Nike base layer under my Detroit 1/2 Marathon shirt, with my tempo shorts. My core felt dry and warm for most of the run, and once the rain stopped I could have done without my second shirt, but ah well.

I havent looked at the splits for my run because I dont really care too much about them right now. During the last five miles I took two walk breaks. By that time my IT band was really tight and I just knew I had to keep going but it was definitely at a slower pace.

BUT I did it.

Now, here I sit. On Wednesday I ordered a pair of Compression socks from ProCompression using the $20 off coupon that Skinny Runner posted ($50 socks for $30 with free shipping!), and I was so excited when they arrived on FRIDAY (holy fast shipping!). After I got home, I changed into dry clothes, stretched and drove Tim back to his car (It was at the 11/9 mile mark basically). I was incredibly thankful to have someone to chat with and to push me along a bit during those last 9 miles.

Upon returning home, I took a long shower, and got cozy and comfy in my new socks.

Ate some breakfast, watched/napped during the Red Wings game (they lost, boo :( )

And now watching the Tigers against the White Sox.

And drying out my shoes.

Hanging with this guy.

Hope you all had a great Sunday :)