L. O. & Ts

I run every day. 

Today is day #661.

I like this saying a little better this way:

If you always do what you always did, you always get what you always got.

Saturday I proved how true that saying is for me.

What running the Hashawha Hills Trail Run 50k showed me:

Lessons

I learned that I can run with someone else and not get lost.

I learned that what works for some runners isn't always what works for me.

 I learned that I can ignore a lot of discomfort when distracted by good conversation.
I learned again that my mind is 1000% stronger than my body will ever be.

I learned you can run fast across a hay field and not break your ankle.

sorry pappy, you were wrong.
I learned that just when I think I've fallen in love with this sport I fall deeper.

Observations
I noticed that I can run a 50k on very little fueling.

I noticed that some people don't like cheerfulness after 20 miles.

I noticed the same views can be just as breathtaking the second time around.
I noticed that people are really nice especially when you stop mid-race to help them pick up their dropped mail.  

I noticed that body type and age have nothing to do with how well you run an Ultra!
I noticed there is a child-like joy about splashing mud while you run.

Thoughts
I wonder how many runners were tempted to not get the gum bands?
I wonder if I will ever be able to share that level of joy with my family?

I think about those volunteers and wonder if they know how much their smiling faces helped me?
I wonder if my family knows how much ultra running is a part of who I am?

I think about the runners whose only desire is to go fast and I wonder why?
I wonder how much of this I will be able to put into practice on Saturday?