Miles 251.5-255.5: Steaming and smoking

Sadly this is not a post about cuisine; I'm afraid the only thing cooking today was me. Nevertheless, I'm excited because today was the first day of The (Sub)Plan: Break 2:00 or Bust on September 11 in Chicago!

James has successfully used this plan to run faster and faster times. It's been on our refrigerator for over a year and I'm totally stoked because for the first time, I'm at a place where I feel mentally pumped and physically able to follow this plan and succeed.

With five races under my belt, knowledge of my weaknesses (both physical and mental), and a desire stronger than ever to see my first number be a "1" I feel strong and ready to tackle this goal.

The next ten weeks will certainly not be without their challenges.The heat will discourage me; shin splits will be a constant threat; weekend parties filled with drinking will tempt me from my schedule.

Because of these fears and more, it means a tremendous amount to me that for today's run - the first of this (Sub)Plan - James ran by my side. The wind had changed direction again, blowing in more smoke from the fires; at 6:30 it was still steamy and running shirtless only showcased just how much I sweat. Thanks to a day of consistent hydrating, however, I ran splits of 9:27, 9:52, 9:46, and 9:39. He has ambitious goals for Chicago as well, but starting off together leaves me feeling supported in a whole new way.

My main focus with this plan is to force myself to do the speed drills and slow long distance runs consistently. I have a feeling if I can nail those, I'll be golden.