Can I actually run 50 miles?

We went for an 8 mile trail run yesterday out at the Bull Run Run trail (I am not sure of its actual name). I'd run almost every day this week (I traveled cross-country on my rest day -- also exhausting) and was feeling pretty worn out. The first mile was really challenging, but by mile 4 I had settled into the run...eating some Gu then also helped energize me. Yesterday was gorgeous and I was really thankful to be outside enjoying the day rather than on my couch enjoying some Bravo.

John is a great trail running partner because he will run ahead but knows I am a little nervous being out there by myself and waits for me when I've been gone too long or there is a turn on the trail I might miss. I feel bad slowing him down and encourage him to keep a normal pace but really appreciate him looking out for me! I actually did get lost for about 10 minutes yesterday but heard John's voice in my head, "Does this look like the trail?" and turned around when the path started looking overgrown.

At  moments during the run I asked myself if I could really run a 50 miler? Could I really do another 42 miles when I was this tired doing just 8? The answer is: I know I can do the distance, I'm a little uncertain about the trails. John mentioned some other 50 milers that aren't as trail heavy I'm going to look into.We might need to update our title up there in the masthead thing, but John and I still have a solid goal of completing a 50 miler. When that will be is another question I am going to be thinking over...

After our relaxing trail run, we went to Clare and Don's in Falls Church and ordered some junk food to reward ourselves. John and his wife Lucy took me here last year for my birthday and it is the perfect outdoor spot to hit up when you are sweaty, muddy and smelly. Here's a picture of John enjoying a beverage that tasted very similar to red G2.

A big thanks goes to my wonderful cousin Erica who spent her Friday night helping me make this blog look pretty. She's a computer genius who knew how to take this clunky format and make it perfect for me! I enjoyed spending time with her and getting to see her amazing web skills in action!

Weekly Mileage Summary:
Monday: SFO to PHL to DCA travel day
Tuesday: 4
Wednesday: 4.5
Thursday: 3
Friday: 3.5
Saturday: 8
Sunday: 2 + stretching and major couch time

PS: I have a feeling I will be posting about 5 times as much as John. Although I have a busy life, John's is even busier -- he has a young, adorable daughter, amazing wife who is a busy teacher, a demanding training schedule and an even more demanding job!