I ran my first long run of 9 miles.  I LOVED IT ! ! !  I feel really alive, as if a light came on in my mind and I started to wonder what I was truly capable of.

My Judo buddy knew exactly what to do, and recommended an 18 week novice marathon training program by Hal Higdon.  I also did a bunch of web searches and dug into learning everything I could about long distance running.  Workouts, nutrition, clothing and equipment, supplements, you name it.  My mind is ripe for information and I am a sponge just soaking up everything I can learn.  Now my runs seem carry more meaning and a purpose again.

The route: