Four miles! It’s hard to believe but it wasn’t that bad. It was just over 20 degrees this morning when we started, almost 30 when we finished, so the temp wasn’t much of a big deal. There were more people out this week than last, and I talked to some new folks that I had seen but not talked to previously. It’s just after 9 AM and I’m already home and cooling off.

We started with a long downhill run — more than a mile. After a long flat stretch, a few small hills then another small downhill as we backtracked over the small hills. One long uphill stretch and we were half way. There was a water stop at the halfway point – a good break from running. Then, a sloping downhill / flat section for the next full mile. That mile was the best yet. I ran and talked to Jeff, the beau of a co-worker (but I just met him today). We chatted during the entire mile (and during most of mile 2). It was the furthest each of us had run previously. and the mile felt good. A few short walking periods during the final mile (like up the last hill) allowed a strong finish.

Prep today included eating a few slices of hearty bread, one with strawberry jelly. That worked well for me — I’m not starving and the water I drank beforehand was a huge help.

All in all, I felt good about the run today (especially the 3rd mile). I am getting stronger with each run and recovering faster. I’m encourage since I have the same distance to run next Saturday – and I have proven that I can cover that mileage!