Running Blog: Getting closer to race day

8.30.09
Long run today: 10 miles
Course: Brush Creek Park
Weather: 60, part cloudy and breezy

I am excited about my 1/2 marathon that is coming up in 2 weeks. I am amazed how each week my runs are getting easier. Today, I went to the park to run. Was going to run a different path, but Steve wanted to walk Tikka and be around for my run. I like having him with me, so I chose a different route. Only problem with this route is that the park is only 3.25 miles, therefore I had to make 3 trips.
Got to the park, I was excited to get my run underway with how nice the weather was. I do so much better running in cooler weather. Put on my running mp3 player and nothing happened when I turned it on. Thank goodness, my Ipod was in the car. Two problems with the Ipod; I don't have a holster for it and not all my music is on it yet (only 1500 songs on it so far, little less than half way). I shoved it down my sports bar and took off for my run. I had to advance a lot of songs; not great running tunes. My first 2 miles were tough. I was thrown off by not having my usual play list of running songs and my legs were so tight and felt like they weighed 100lbs each. Figured out why at end of my run. I felt my face and it felt like sand was all over it. No, just salt!!! Obviously I had too much salt this weekend. Got into my groove, past several familiar faces that are usually out there walking.
My motivation was not entirely in music form with this run. I did have 2 motivation songs: Amy Grant Alright and Darius Rucker All Right. I don't usually run to my Christian music, but since I had my Ipod, it came on and hit a nerve: good nerve. I encountered 2 men that were motivation for me today. I see both often at the park. The first was a 70 something man that walks with his wife. We usually wave and say hello. Today, he blew me a kiss. I laughed, said thanks and chuckled for the next several miles. The next man tickles me so. He rides a mountain bike, with jeans, t-shirt and usually work boots. This man rides for at least an hour, making loops around this park. I am encouraged by his dedication and thriftiness. He and I passed each other today multiple times. At first we just smiled and waved, then we began to give a thumbs up to each other. Made me smile and gave me the motivation that I needed.
Today's run was great and my time improved. I think I am ready for my race!!!!
I used Goo today instead of the blocks. I like the Goo much better.