I decided last night that, even though I wasn't back to my normal running schedule due to vacation and hot weather, that I was going to run 10 miles today. So, I did it.
I ran a three lake loop (technically, I probably looped around 5 lakes) around Lotus, Maceday and Williams Lakes. That was good for over 8 miles, then I was creative and ran around until I got to 10 miles.
With the route I was running, I had a choice to run one direction and hit the hills early in the run, or go the other way and hit the hills late. I decided to take the hills early and, while my legs paid for it, it was probably the correct decision. I may have been tempted to stop running on a big hill late in today's run.
I went out early and while is wasn't scorching hot, it was warm and humid. I felt good at first and thought I was at a pace I could maintain throughout. However the hills, the humidity and my recent lack of running all probably played a part in my gradual slowing during the run. My legs (mostly knees) were not happy with me beyond about 3 or 4 miles.
Overall, I'm glad that I reached the ten mile mark. I have a month until a ten mile race, so while I knew I could do it, it is still nice to cover at least the same distance as the race.
Congratulations! Ten miles really is an accomplishment. I remember exactly how my first ten miler made me feel back in 2008. It was the beginning of a long line of realizations that lead me to the marathon. The human body is truly amazing and seemingly limitless once you allow your mind to let go of the artificial obstructions. Josh, use caution here because this stuff is really addictive. Before you know it you won't feel like you did anything unless you put 8-10 miles behind you. Keep it up!!
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