Today's run was 18 miles for me (16-20 on the plan, I have been doing the "middle ground"). My original plan was to do 3 out-and-back loops of 6 each (3x2x3) and fill my water at 12, but I decided to do 1 loop of 14 (7x2) and 1 loop of 4 (2x2). I went out on our multi-use trail, starting in a more shady area since it was warm and sunny. I should have stuck with my plan -- 2-3 (times two) miles at the very middle of the 14 were totally exposed sun. That 6 miles sure took more out of me than I had planned!

I had to stop at 14 and grab a bottle of water... I hate carrying water now that I've been wearing the camelbak waistpack. Either I need to get a second bladder or a second whole waistpack so I can quickly change them out instead of carrying a bottle. That really messed up my rhythm all around. In general I felt "off" today, combining the weather and the water bottle and deviating from my original plan. I wanted to quit at 14, then come back and "settle" for 16, but I told myself even if I had to walk, I would do the distance. I had already told myself regardless that I'd do the last 1-2 miles walking to cool down, and I have to say... I hate walking for any distance that isn't "going" somewhere -- booo-riiinnnggg

Looking forward to more clouds and cooler temps, it was perfect in the shade and really great a few days this week. My 1/2 marathon is in mid-October which will definitely be cooler, and my marathon is in November in Seattle which is pretty much guaranteed to be overcast and cool (and maybe rainish). I keep telling myself that I *know* I do better in the cooler temperatures and not to get caught up so much in my training times for these long runs. The marathon's not tomorrow!