What a day...

This morning found us waking up at 5:30 am at a hotel in College Station. After checking out of the hotel a short while later and hitting the road, I commented to K that this is one of those crazy runner things that we (I) do...driving before the sun is up in another part of the state to go run.

Today, we ran the Trail Twister in Bryan for our last long run before Palo Duro in 2 weeks. The distances were 10k, 30k, and 60k. Those running the 20k in PD (K) were supposed to run 10, while the 50k'ers (me) were supposed to run 25 today. Joe told us not to race this since this wasn't our goal race, and I followed his instructions. My only goal for today was to get the miles in, slow and easy. It was a relatively small race (100-150 participants), including several from our training group who made the trek out there. It was very well-organized, with clear course markings and great aid station volunteers. The course went around Lake Bryan, and it reminded me a lot of the Maze from the Rogue Trail Series in that there were so many twists and turns. Not a lot of rocks thankfully, but plenty of tree roots to jump around. So, back to my run...I didn't feel quite as strong today as I did last weekend in Bastrop, in part likely due to not managing my nutrition and hydration needs as well today and the much higher temps today. I had GI issues again, and after last weekend, I have no shame (whether that's good or bad) about popping a squat in the woods. I also took a spill fairly early on in my run, and had several other close calls too. But, nothing serious, thankfully - just enough to shake me mentally though. So, the plan was to run the 30k easy and then go back out to run the 10k course afterwards to get the mileage in. Now, that was hard. When I crossed the finish line, I told Joe that I didn't think I had another 10k left in me. I was hoping he'd say that's okay and tell me that I had done enough (especially since it was so warm), but nope - he told me to take a break, get some food and fluids, and get back out there taking it very easy. So, that's what I did. I got it done. Now, I'm ready for the taper! And, the big day is 2 weeks from today.

In 10k news, K was first overall in his race. He's K, he can do that. I'm proud of him, and I'm glad that he had such a good run. He got a really cool plaque as his award. Our finisher's medals are pretty cool too.

So, we got back home in the late afternoon with just enough time to shower and get a quick nap before tonight's festivities. We went to see Jackopierce at the Cactus Cafe. The first time that I saw them was at SMU in 1994. 1994! It's still very meaningful every time that I see them. I've seen them in different cities with different people who were important in my life at various periods. And, tonight, K and I saw them for the first time as husband and wife. It was my kind of show too - early (7:30pm) and with seating. I'm old, remember? :)

Now, I'm looking forward to sleeping in tomorrow. Then, it's watching videos and grading papers all day...