I had my ipod with me. I have found I like to run without it but I brought it just in case I needed some motivation. I had some songs on it and some podcasts from OA (personal testimonies and such) that I downloaded. They probably saved my life! For the last couple of miles I did have to listen to it and they kept me motivated.
I usually am pretty slow and with no motivation when I first get started but after about 2-3 miles it gets to feeling pretty good and I think "I can do this all day!"
I ran my neighborhood which is about 2 miles and then a 3+ mile square close to home - twice!! At about mile 4 I passed the dreaded donut shop and I could smell it before I got to it. I almost brought money so I could stop in and get one but decided against it. I felt like that might be defeating my purpose. Right after I passed the donut shop my husband drove up with a nice cold bottle of water. I poured out my hot water and put the cold water in my hand-held water bottle. A lifesaver...thank you honey!!
I would look at my Garmin off and on but had decided I would be in no hurry. I would run with joy and notice the scenery around me and take my sweet time (without the donut). And I did just that.
Those of you who have read my blog before or know me personally know that I am recovered alcoholic and addict. Well, I want to tell you that God reminds of where I came from, and I don't want to ever forget that. During every run God supplies me with a beer ....not to drink but one someone has thrown out on the side of the road. I have NEVER ran that I did not see a beer can or beer bottle along my route, except for races of course. And when I do, I am reminded from where I came and how much I have to be grateful for. I occasionally pass an empty cigarette package and am thankful that I don't smoke anymore also!
God is so good and I don't deserve it but praise the Lord He thinks I am worthy!!
Before the run I drank one of those 5-hour energy things and could not tell much difference. At about mile 5 I took a chocolate outrage Gu and then at mile 7 I took some Jelly Belly sports beans. Got to get those carbs! All in all it was a good run - even if i was by myself. At least I did not feel pressured in my mind to keep up with anyone. I had nothing to prove. I just had 10 miles to run, that is all. No finish line, no time limit, etc. Just training for my second half marathon to come in two weeks. One thing I did think about was that my son, who is running the half also, was running HIS 10 mile run at his home. So I guess you could say we ran together in spirit. We tried to get together to do this run but it didn't work out.
The feeling of accomplishment after I finished that 10 miles was awesome! It is every time I do something like this. I still remember the day I got on the treadmill to do the couch 25K and could not run for even 15 minutes. I never dreamed I would WALK 1 mile much less try to run one!!
It took me 2 hours and 31 minutes. I told you I am slow, but I am also persistent. I wouldn't have a few 5ks, 10ks, and one half marathon under my belt if I wasn't. I have never been out to win anything. I just want to be healthy. One of my favorite quotes is - "The successful new long distance athlete is the one who can leave his ego behind at the race start." That's me. I run because I love it and because I never thought I could! That is enough for me. Oh, and the look on someone's face when I tell them I just ran 10 miles.... is priceless!!
Have a wonderful and safe holiday my friends!
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