The days that you don't "expect much" are often surprising. Today, I ran. I was a bit sad that it would be by myself, again... but, I would make the best of it. No one was going to MAKE me go out. Begrudgingly, my mind was prepared to go alone. I had no plan except "see how it goes." I wished for 8 miles so I could get back on schedule but my lack of performance & drive this past week made me realistically consider 5. I took Lucy & would "make the best of it." The weather was a chilly 8 degrees.  There was no wind & as usual, the scenery at Oak Openings was pleasant. There were deer at the entry and the humidity, freezing on the tall grass, in the savannah, made for an almost glittered, sparkling sight! I layered & was prepared to remove my outer jacket after I warmed up. Lucy & I took a slow but steady pace. Mile one came and went with no discomfort... mile two... mile three... I had alternate plans of mileage & routes depending on how Lucy and I responded to the environment. I figured since I was alone, I would make today a "long" run. How "long" could I really run with Lucy? I am happy to report we ran eight miles! I still had plenty "in the tank" so I drove home, dropped Lucy off & ran down my street one mile out and back. I LOVE running double digits! I feel very accomplished & use it to remind myself that "I can" when things are more difficult.




So what made today possible? I have a "plain Jane" palate when it comes to beverages. I love the affects of stimulants but don't like the syrupy taste of colas, the bland taste of teas, or the bitter taste of coffee. Hannah, having a sluggish morning start, made coffee before school, today. She likes her coffee strong with lots of flavored creamer. I dropped them off at school & came home to clean the kitchen before heading out. I opened her travel mug & took a sip. It was QUITE good! I took another drink... & before I knew it, I was GOING to go out! Armed with my "solo or death" attitude, I wasn't prepared for the ease of the run but I wasn't going to look a gift horse in the mouth either. I was going to add those extra miles without Lucy.




Upon my return, Lucy was snoring. I chuckled. I got cleaned up & ready for work. I ate, ran errands & picked up the girls from school. I'm heading to work & I'm asking Hannah to make some coffee, tomorrow...