Day 293: Highs and lows on a big Sunday run

RUN: 13.1 miles

Today I intended to run 18 miles - the same route I did on Day 251, but the other way round.
There was a long slog of a hill on the way back, so the other way round seemed a good solution.

Running along, mulling over why things don't seem to be going well with only six weeks to go until marathon day, I realised my problem is with confidence more than anything else.
So I decided that redoing last weekend's half marathon route better than I did it before would give me more confidence than struggling through 18 miles.

Just 13 miles wasn't easy, though, and I seemed to suffer a lack of energy for some reason, even though I had energy gels and jelly babies with me. So I have resolved to treat myself a bit better, eat more food, good food, get more sleep and drink more water.

Near the end of the run I had to tackle Hollins Hill - a one-mile distance with a 250ft climb. At the bottom I told myself if I could make it to the top without stopping, I could do the marathon. So I did.
The feeling when I got to the top was fantastic. I hope I feel so elated when I finish the marathon.

Here's today's run - see the big hill near at the end?

Day 294: Tragedy and triumph on a sunny evening

RUN: 2.5 miles

This evening I got back from work about 7pm. The weather was warm and sunny, and it was just beginning to turn dusk. It's very uplifting to be able to take advantage of these light evenings
I rarely feel the urge to go out running - it's often a chore - but today it felt a pleasure. I was so enthusiastic in fact, I headed straight up the nearest hill and didn't stop once until I got home. Brilliant. Hopefully I've found my lost confidence.

Here's today's run

Sadly, I wasn't feeling good for long. I got home and heard of the tragedy unfolding at the Boston Marathon. The two bombs that went off close to the finish line of the most prestigious marathon killed two people and injured scores more. Many people have had their feet and legs blown off. Unbelievable scenes. Why would anyone target runners and spectators? How can anyone be so cruel?

I hope all my family and fellow runners will be safe at the Edinburgh Marathon.