It was a tricky week last week. I usually get in three weekday runs and a long run on Saturday morning. Last week I got one five-mile run in and that was it before my long run of 10 miles over the weekend. I figured a little rest was good and I would be fine. I mean, I've run this distance before multiple times. How bad could it be?
I met my running buddy on Sunday to begin our journey. We both had things Saturday morning so we pushed our run back a day. Another day of rest. I was ready. I quickly realized that this run would include several hills. I love hills and I hate hills. I love coming down hills but going up is a little challenging even with the intervals that I run. I walk one minute and run two minutes and continue that through the duration. I always tell myself I can do anything for two minutes. Easier said than done.
I felt great at mile six. At mile eight I felt the hills and at mile nine I felt everything. Sadly, I am getting older and my recovery is not as easy as it used to be. I knew by 9.5 miles I would need aspirin if I wanted to walk in the morning. I feel OK but next week calls for 11-12 miles. I am mentally preparing already. I think my reward for running this weekend should be cheese fries with extra bacon from Outback Steakhouse. There is really nothing like it.
Here's to you hills and aspirin. I will take you both on. Three weeks till the half marathon. Looking forward to having the 13.1 mile race behind me so I can enjoy an extra helping of stuffing at Thanksgiving dinner.
