My Record: 270 Miles This Month (+ Tooth Extraction)

"In an ultra you should eat like a horse, drink like a fish, and run like a turtle." ~ Unknown

Monday, October 31st 2011: 7 miles @ 10:39 minutes per mile pace. This was my last run for October and completed the most miles I have ever run in one month: 270 miles! This has been a big confidence boost in helping me feel prepared for the ultra. I had to take a picture after the run to celebrate my new record:


Tuesday, November 1st 2011: 2 miles @ 9:10 minutes per mile pace in the morning. And then in the afternoon..... I got a tooth extraction. My big tooth on the bottom went to meet it's maker. Hanging out with the oral surgeon was not on my "To Do" list the week before the 100 miler. It was highly un-awesome.


But I realized something when I went for the tooth extraction: I wasn't too worried. And I think it's because of running! I think running has taught me how to handle challenges by having the attitude that you just do what you have to do to get through hard times. Control what you can control and accept the rest. When the going gets tough, you just put on your big-boy pants, suck it up, and get it done. So good riddance you dumb tooth!

Wednesday, November 2nd 2011: Rest. Bring on the oatmeal, soup, and ice cream! (I realized that having a gaping hole in the back of your jaw is even less fun than it sounds.) Oral surgeon said I shouldn't run for a few days. How's that for a forced taper?

Thursday, November 3rd 2011: Rest.

Friday, November 4th 2011: Rest.

Saturday, November 5th 2011: 5 miles @ 12:26 minutes per mile pace. This is the first time Mel and I have run together for a while. It was really cold and even snowed on us for part of the run.


After about a half hour the snow stopped and the sky started to clear a little bit.


I must tell you - I am so thankful for Mel. She has been beyond supportive about this ultra. She has never said "I don't think this is a good idea." or "I'm not sure you can do it." She has never been doubtful or critical or questioning. She has only been 100% supportive and encouraging. That means a lot. I am so thankful for her.


I can not believe that my first 100 miler is less than ONE WEEK AWAY! I am so excited, I can't wait. I feel good, nothing is hurting, and I'm ready for the challenge. I'm ready for the sleep deprivation and the throwing up and the hallucinations and the belt buckle. Ah....the belt buckle. (For all 100 milers you don't get a medal at the finish line. You get a belt buckle!)

Stay tuned. In a few days I'll post some last minute preparations for the 100 as well as information on how you can watch the race live online. Let's get ready to rumble!