My Worst (Running) Fear Nearly Came True

I don't know what happened, but I just hope it never happens again. Everyone has fears. Well my fear of running is having to go.....with no place to go...

I was feeling pretty sluggish yesterday when it came time to run. I had had another long work day and subsequently missed the social run. I was counting on the social aspect to get me through the leisure 8 mile on schedule for the day.  After going through the mail and seeing all the generous donations, I had the encouragement and support I needed to make it through on my own.

It was pretty hot and humid yesterday, but 4 miles in I felt good. I rounded my house and headed out for the second half. That's when I practically felt my stomach fall. Hmmm....that's a new feeling. I thought- I'll be fine. I don't want to get Emma all excited. I'll just loop back around and finish.

Big mistake.

I was stranded 2 miles from home with the worst 'stomach-ache' I have ever experienced. I knew a park was close. As I rounded the corner I saw the bathrooms in the park. The sun had already set, so seeing that little building all lit up was the most glorious site for sore eyes. I had never been so excited to see and use a public bathroom, but that joy was taken away from me all too soon. They were locked up for the night. O.m.g. now what do I do?! I'm 2 miles from home with no bathroom in sight! I texted my knight in shining armor for a ride, but he was not available to help. Now I was really stranded. All I could do was continue to put one foot in front of the other but at a much slower pace. We're talking walking here. The sun had already gone down, so lots of creative thoughts went through my mind....but no. I would make it home.

People probably thought something was wrong with me. I'm sure I didn't look pleasant. But would you look pleasant if your stomach had quadrupled in size? I didn't think so. If this is what child birth feels like, count me out.

Long story short, I made it home. That was the worst pain I have ever experienced. If that happens after 4 miles. I'm terrified for the 12 I have tomorrow. Thankfully today was a rest day. I needed it.

I think I've learned some lessons. But for humor purposes, I'll pass along some advice from a colleague who is an elite endurance athlete. "Always wear 2 pairs of socks."

Shout outs for the amazing people who have donated in the past 2 days:

• Kris & John
• Jay & Jean
• Ed & Sheri
• Frank & Lisa
• Sharrol & Tony
• Sally
• Linda
• Martha

Thanks so much everyone. Spread the word that anyone can donate online: Click here