Sunday, December 9, 2012

With a Little Help From My Friends

Hal Higdon's Novice 1 Marathon Training Schedule: Week 13, Day 7

Planned Activity: 30K (18 Miles)
Days to Chevron Houston Marathon: 34


30K 6:30 am  65 degrees at start  

*Time  3:47:43  12:39 pace


I went to two parties last night - the night before a big run.  Yes, I did that.

I had less than half a serving of vodka, mixed with cranberry juice and tonic and the rest of the evening I drank water and more juice.  I needed to be around people I know and love.  I needed to be around twinkly Christmas lights and bite-sized yummy food.  And laughter, lots of laughter.

I needed to hear from my friends that the decisions I've made lately are sound and that my friends would have and actually HAVE done the same.  I needed hugs and I got them. 

I was home by 9:30.  I was up by 5. 

I pulled on my new, hot pink compression socks - a gift from my daughter - and the rest of my running gear and I ate an English muffin with peanut butter before going downstairs to the Start Line. 

My right heal hurt like a bitch throughout part of the race.  My left knee hurt throughout the rest of it.  I got hungry around mile 10.  I ate the calorie blocs I carried with me.  I was still hungry.

A friend was taking pictures on the sidelines.  He lifted my spirits.  I was still hurting.

I learned a lot during this race. 

I need to carry more calories.  I need my friends.  When my thoughts started to disappear - and I mean THEY DISAPPEARED (I didn't know what direction I was running) - I pulled myself back to reality with replaying some of the conversations from last night's parties.  I think I was out of my damned mind for a few minutes this morning.  Heat + low blood sugar = BAD,

I need to use some skin lube for my upper arms if I'm going to wear a singlet.  Did I mention how hot it was today?  My arms are not-ready-for-sleeveless-anytime-soon.

I can get through the pain and the toil of the marathon but I can't get through it alone.

Nope, can't do it.

I need my friends.  And food.  And lube.

*Edited:  Official times are posted.




©Michelle Scofield, Dec. 9, 2012 All Rights Reserved



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