If only every week could go this well

First week of my new job -- 5 of those days being on the road -- and I got all my runs in plus a strength workout. I can't be unhappy with that. I had great mileage for this week -- 23.6. The first month of official training has me coming in around 18 a week so I'm really happy with how I did this week. Yesterday's long run was tough, it was hot and I was a little slower than last week because of it. But...today was an unexpected victory! I did the Branford Road Race (5 miles) and I was hoping to *maybe* come in at 55 minutes and I came in at 52-something! I can't wait to get the official time. I just got caught up in the spirit of the race and it pushed me along at a much better clip than I thought possible. I hit the first mile marker at 9:40 and while I was super psyched I also knew I had to slow down a little or I'd never finish. I definitely struggled with controlling my pace today, I was either slowing down or speeding up, I don't feel like I was ever in a steady stride but I'm definitely not unhappy with the results.

The race was really fun, I've always wanted to do the Branford Road Race but it never worked out. The course was beautiful and there were so many nice people who had their sprinklers and hoses going. At the end of the race the fire department had a huge sprinkler going and between that and the cold watermelon, I was a happy camper.

I got to meet my aunt and uncle's Cross Fit friends. They are all in INSANE shape -- so inspiring! Someone from their group did the race in 27 minutes, that's CRAZY! It was a lot of fun to do the race with my aunt and uncle (we all ran on our own though). That's not a real tattoo on my uncle, they all airbrushed themselves before the race. They're so hardcore into Cross Fit and it pays off. If it were closer I'd start going too. Afterwards we went in their hot tub and pool and I can't think of a nicer end to a great week of running. If only the rest of the training goes as well! ;)