Our neighborhood's streets have been torn up throughout July, August, and September as they have been replacing storm, sewer, and water pipes. Yesterday we finally got new asphalt. Our street used to be one of the worst in Orem, now it's brand new. I did some laps around the neighborhood on the new asphalt this morning to test my knee, try out a couple of my knee supports, and remind myself that I am ready for the marathon. My knee is definitely not 100%, but the more I warmed up the less I noticed it. I've decided the knee strap feels the best. It provides just the support I need at the spot I need it. After a mile and a half of warm up and test runs I put in a mile at fast marathon pace. It felt good. I started out at about a 7:20 pace but ended up averaging 7:00/mi overall. I definitely won't try running that pace for the marathon, but it was encouraging that it felt so good. I'm ready. Next stop St. George. | 