Luckily there were no tears on the run today. But, there was a lot of sweat and a little blood. And then, there was ice, but that came later.
Before my run I fueled up with AB&J and iced coffee. 
Then, I rocked out 18 miles. I had a really good run too! I was nervous about it after last weekend’s fueling issues. But, I did a few things differently today…
1.) Fueled better. I ate a lot yesterday, possibly too much, but it helped. I also fueled during the run better. I took Powerbar chewies and started taking them at the half way point and every other mile after that. Plus I drank Gatorade. It worked.
2.) Tried to pace a little better. I didn’t start out as fast as last weekend. Part of this is due to the route not being downhill for the first 7 miles, but still I tried.
3.) Asked God to make the weather cooler. Okay, that is not completely true, but it was cooler today and that really helped!
The blood – I didn’t realize until after the run as I was stretching out that my middle toe was all bloody. It hurt a little during the run at one point, but nothing major. 
The sweat – I am disgusting after a run. It’s not something I can help. Oh well. 
The Ice – I had two major requirements of our new couch – and one of them was that it had a chaise. I wanted the chaise so I could easily ice my knees. It was a must have and I’m super grateful we got it. 
Breakfast post run – As soon as I got home I drank half a coconut water. I know they are great for you, but I’m still letting it grow on me. Then, I made a massive egg sandwich, apple and a banana (no picture). 
I’m super hungry still and am thinking about chips, salsa and a cookie, random.
Don’t store your floorboards standing up, they will warp. Store them lying down.
Ok, our next couch definitely has to have a chaise!
Awesome 18 mile LR!! Long runs are always my favorite because food tastes SOO good after 🙂 And you are so fast! What is your goal time for this marathon?
It’s not fair your feet look good! My toenails are quite black and gross.
Your toes look soo pretty.
you rocked it! great job monica! wish i could have been there with you!
Your toenails are so pretty! So is that chaise. I love that you can sit OR lie on a chaise–they’re like a way classier, more comfy futons. Good job rockin’ the run!
great job on the run! I have 16 tomorrow, and you’ve inspired me. you’re going to rock your marathon
I just noticed you’re wearing a Princeton sweatshirt (right?) Did you go there? I’m Class of ’09!
Nice job on the race – and blood is just a sign of kicking ass, right?!
Whitney,
Ben went to Princeton. He’s the smart one 😉
I joined him at Reunions this year though – you guys know how to throw a party!
Ahhhh! I want that couch for napping!!!
not sure if you know how to change up your garmin to show the actual overall pace
http://beneathitallblog.com/2010/08/27/chicago-marathon-training-10-miles-step-back-week/
I think I do, but never try anything fancy with the Garmin. Thanks!
Great run Monica!
Your couch looks perfect for knee icing. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
love the chaise. and your 18! great job 🙂
CONGRATS! I won’t do my 18 for a few more weeks, but I did 13 today, and I had the same exact bloody toe issue – same foot same toe. Weird, eh? Gross, but kinda bad-ass, haha.
I’ve never seen such beautiful feet bleed 🙁
Thanks babe.
Where did you get your chaise? I love it!