There Was No Rain

The storm was supposed to hit us on Saturday so I figured I'd be running in the rain. However, even though it was 59 degrees, there was hardly any rain on Saturday's 11 mile long run.

I ran with a "fanny pack" to start getting used to wearing one. I have run with a smaller one before that holds a water bottle but I wanted to start running with supplies - just in case I need them. It's part of me learing to take care of myself. For some of you that sounds silly, but for those of you who know what it's like growing up not taking care of yourself - justifying why you don't need to stop and go to the bathroom because it might inconvenince or anger the person you are with - then, you can understand why those learned coping mechanisms make it a bit of a challenge to learn to take care of yourself on the course. In a way, it feels like I'm cheating if I carry chapstick or tylenol. But the reality is that those are neccessities that make my running fun and enjoyable.

The run was AWESOME! Lot's of runners out early at 7am. The sky was cloudy and it was nice and cool. I didn't know what to expect my body would do that day but it absolutely rose to the challenge and loved every step I took. I tried a new flavor of Hammer Gel - Banana. GROSS. I had to throw it away and bust out the chocolate. My beloved shimmer chapstick I do not like while running - it's gritty - and I don't like that gritty feeling at all. My Superfeet have broken in very nicely although if I get a new pair of shoes for Christmas I may have to do that all over again.

I AM TRAINING FOR ANOTHER HALF MARATHON - Feb 1st 2009 Superbowl Sunday Surf City Marathon in Huntington Beach. I'm very excited! I'm already ready so I'm staying around the 14 mile mark during the month of January. When I go to Yuba this weekend, they have a spectacular brand new track (I've blogged about it before) and it's nice and safe for a long run. Running in the country can be tricky with all the dogs and the way they drive out there on country roads.