Yesterday, I very purposefully mentioned that I would going on a long run today. I thought, if I publicly announced that I would run 15+ miles (and I know I can because I did it last weekend) and block out 3 hours and hit the road, a magical mid-week long run would materialize!
Well, I apparently didn't use enough fairy dust, because 5 miles in, I said, "Forget it."
I was hot, dehydrated, stressing about my teetering pile of papers to grade, a little worn out from a long day of fourth graders, and generally not feeling it. I scraped this week's (already two days late) long run and decided to conserve my time and energy for this weekend.
I rediscovered my marathon plan after a few weeks off track and saw that I need to complete a 13 miler this coming weekend and then hit the big 2-0 the following week. I honestly think I can do it. Slowly, pathetically, but it will be done. I've come too far to turn back now. I just desperately wish I had someone to run with here though.
It's hard for me to fathom that about 4 years ago, the last time I was training for a marathon, that I joyfully hit the road (iPod-less, can you imagine?) for 13, 15, 17 miles at a time by myself. (Except for my one and only running blind date, but that's a story for another day.) I ran, even while limping, before I had to accept my knee was not compatible with a marathon at that time.
I'm just not feeling it now. How do y'all get through long runs by yourselves? I need a partner, I need water stations, I need to not compete with traffic! I really enjoyed and felt good about that 15 miles with my mom last weekend, but alone today, it just wasn't happening.
Do you have to do long runs during the week? I couldn't go on runs like that after work. Just like you the stress and the day would get to me. I say prepare for Saturday as your long run day and have water ready at stations and get up early and DO IT. I wouldn't force it during the week.
ReplyDeleteYou're my hero for attempting a long day after kids.
It helps me to find a new route, preferably on a dirt road in the middle of nowhere. Then, I'm not worried out the song on my iPod, the passing cars or whether someone saw me pick a wedgie. It's just me, the dirt and the birds. Peace.
ReplyDeletecan't help with running advice, Rachel. however - if you head back to the lake for a long run, lemme know and i'll leave water & M&Ms out for ya (grin). hang in there!
ReplyDeleteMomma said there would be days like this. It's the bad days that really make you appreciate the good days. Do what you can, when you can.
ReplyDeleteyou need a partner and a good run to look back on! this weekend I hope the long run is good! I cant do them anymore w/o a partner!
ReplyDeletealso how bout going on sat or sun EARLY?
ReplyDeleteI just do it...try to think about things that need attention, etc. Hang in there, no run is pathetic, you are out there doing it and that is awesome!!
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