Making Deals To Finish 17 Miles

I'm...alive?

It has been a while since I have done anything over the 15 mile mark. In fact, I do not recall the last time I did anything over 16 miles. Needless to say, I completed my 17 mile goal, but was it challenging!!! It makes me to wonder why my legs have not just disassembled themselves from the rest of my body and said "Deuces!"

I tried to keep my pace within reason so I could maintain as much energy as possible. I aimed to stay within 9:45 to 10:30 pace per mile. Though, some miles were more difficult than others and I think a lot of it had to do with my mentality. I started second guessing myself around mile 5, barely a 3rd of the way through. But for those of you that know me, no matter how negative I may get, a goal is a goal and I try to find the strength deep within myself to finish what I started.

I took a break at mile 10, where the trail turns to concrete for 2 miles, to get some food in my stomach and sip on chug down some Gatorade. I also took a few pictures...

Quite the cloudy day! But fortunately I did not see the rain they were calling for!

Not too terrible looking for 10 miles in the bag!

After my break, it took some energy to get started again. And those final miles were the worst!!! Each one seemed to take much longer to complete than the previous. My pace was actually increasing too. It wasn't until mile 13 where I had to begin making some deals with myself to finish.

First, I was going to have the leftover pizza for lunch if I made it to 17 miles. Usually Peter always gets our leftovers from the Friday night pizza. This time, I was claiming it as mine! Second, I promised myself a nap. I have yet to complete this task, but as soon as I am done writing this, to dreamland I go! I am already in my jammies and snuggled in a blanket on the couch. Third, I want sushi tonight. Maybe ice cream...probably ice cream.

With all these deals I made, I HAD to finish. It was a struggle, but when I saw my car, I was so proud of myself! Though, next week I am planning on an 18-19 mile run. So the deals I am going to make myself are going to get a bit more serious. If that run is anything like today's, shew, it is going to be a doozy!

Anyway, I am ready for some shut eye! I hope you all are having a fab Saturday!

What distance was your long run this week?

What are some deals you have made with yourself just to finish a grueling run?