The Heat Cometh

The weather is beautiful here but the heat...the heat is not beautiful. Yesterday I couldn't believe how pretty it was and how great I felt for the first 10 minutes of my run after work. I went through a different neighborhood this time, trying to avoid hills (conclusion: this is impossible in my town) After those first fun 10 minutes, the heat and blazing sun started to get to me. I was planning on a nice 4 mile run but ONE mile in I started to get worried. Digestive issues decided they wanted to join the party as usual so that was not far from my mind. Then I realized my new Amphipod bottle was not sufficient enough as far as water capacity. I am a runner who is thirsty throughout the entire run--anything over 2 miles. I drink water all day and I still need it when I run. I bought a 12-oz bottle because it is small and convenient but it wasn't enough. I was so hot and tired that I actually had to stop and walk up some of the hills. I am not a fan of stopping, only because it makes it harder to get going again, PLUS it means I will not reach my destination any faster. As I walked I desperately looked around at houses for a hose in order to steal some much-needed water. But I didn't see any that were easily accessible. And I couldn't believe no one had their sprinklers on!!! I hate when I get so hot that I feel a little nervous about heat stroke and stomach issues and feeling faint. It's only May!! I know I should run in the morning but I just love running in the evening.

So, around mile 3 I was on the last stretch towards home and it was, of course, uphill and facing the sun. Wait, what is that I see up ahead? Alas, it is a sprinkler!! I literally sprinted up the hill. I uncapped my Amphipod and filled it up, not caring if the homeowners saw me or not. Surely they would understand that a red-faced, sweaty chick is justified in taking some of their water. Then I stood in the sprinkler's path and I cannot tell you how refreshing that water felt on my body. I started off again to finish the run, happy and feeling a little cooled off. But this only lasted for about 3 minutes...the damn sun is just too bright!! I managed 3.75 but it felt like so much more than that. This heat just makes running no fun and that is disappointing to me. I love running outside and not in the dark! But as summer heads our way I am going to have to change up my schedule. Boo.