my 2nd 18 miler

I got up early on Saturday morning (actually this practice started 1/2 hr later than for the other practices due to the tilt of the earth) and headed down to Clive, as I have done nearly every Saturday in recent memory (since May). I was very nervous to run 20 miles. I know that it is only 2 miles more than I ran a few weeks ago, but for some reason, that seemed more intimidating. Also, I was very sore for about 2 1/2 days last time.
I'm not sure if it was the fact that I had someone to run with, I got up later, it was cooler out, that I paced myself, I ate something different, or what but I amazed myself this weekend with how easy the run was. I didn't end up going the full 20 because I didn't know where to go after 18 (the trail gets really confusing there and last time, I was like incoherent) but I am satisfied with the 18 that I did run. Not only did I run the full 18 miles, shaving over 10 minutes off my time, but I felt pretty good, too. I was sore on Saturday but not nearly as sore or tired as last time. I hope the weather is chilly on race day like it was that day.
I was also surprised by how good I felt because I have had a cold for the past few weeks and have been working 2 jobs. I guess taking some time off from running was a good idea, because I am almost over it already... YAY!
This weekend, Ryan and I will be at the Iowa-Iowa State game in IC... I AM So EXCITED!!! Really I should figure out some way to raise money while I am there, but it could be kind of tough since we have tickets on the 45-yardline... I guess when we are tailgating before/after I can collect donations. I have less than $300 to go, but I am getting discouraged because the money just hasn't been coming in lately like it was at first. It is very difficult to plan things because I am so busy and even when I do, people just don't show up. :(
I'll figure something out...
and I'll keep you posted.

For now, I am off to Ames Raquet and Fitness... I just won a free week's pass. I think it was from a drawing at DQ.
NICE>!