12.5 mile long run.

I don't know what it is about going for a nice, slow, long run that is so satisfying, but this morning I really enjoyed my 12.5 miles.  I've been battling a head/earache for a few days and I wasn't even sure I'd feel up to doing much in terms of a workout, but when I woke up this morning I just knew I needed to get out and run.   My head was pounding a little, but I just convinced myself that I would feel better when I was done.  When I first set out, I wasn't even sure how far I was going to go, but I knew I wanted to do at least 9 or 10 miles.  Once I was past 5 miles, I felt good enough to take the "longer" loop that would get me back to the house in about 12.5 miles.  I lowered my usual run/walk ratio from 3:1 to 2:1, which really helped save my knees.  I felt pretty good basically the whole time, even when I had to run up some very steep hills.  Now my headache is actually feeling much better, it's a gorgeous fall day and I plan on enjoying it with my family!