Didn't really intend for two rest days there, but it turned into one of those types of weeks. I chose to get a few more hours of sleep after some late nights. But back on Shore Drive this morning. Drove through a pretty good rain to get there before dawn, then received Henry's text that he wasn't coming. Oof. At least I was already here. I took off alone and did an easy first 1.5 (7:15 pace). After that I got into a little groove, working things out in my own head and relaxing my legs. But I wasn't minding pace, and I really got going. 7:03, then two sub-7, then three between 7:05 and 7:10. Decided to keep going to the 8-mile turnaround, the rain had stopped by then and I was enjoying the view of Rainier and downtown Seattle. So I climbed the hill out of Manchester in just under 8 for the mile, and took a quick break to gel up. Turned around and started quick, definitely felt stronger at that point than a week ago on the same run. Did a 6:49 then a 6:59. Then Henry came along to meet me, wimp. We did another sub-7 mile, then a 7:08 and two more under 7 (one a 6:43, whew). Then another 7:02 to wrap up. So a pretty quick 16 overall, three minutes faster than a week ago (1:53:08 overall). Not by design, but when those weeks come I guess I take them. I'll count it as a positive sign for my fitness and strength, because I really never broke down or felt winded. Actually finished with quite a bit of energy, probably should have done two more. Legs and feet good otherwise, and my head is in it. Three weeks to Chuckanut, I'll try to pile some miles on tomorrow for a good back-to-back. Another good week though, 44 miles and had I not skipped yesterday could have had 50. Maybe next week. supernova glide -- 339
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