The First 5 Miles!!

I can't believe I just ran 5 MILES!! Today's run was hard. Not sure why, but it was hard to get into a good groove. I guess it was because my mind knew how far I was actually going to run today. I always take my phone with me when I run. I like having the ability to call for help if I need to and there are a few applications that I use as well.

The first app that I use while running is called GPS PAL. This is a free app from Columbia. I like it because it is easy to use and you don't have to stay in the app for the tracking to keep going. Here are the stats from my run today:
Time: 59:58
Net Elevation: -9 ft (gotta love Florida)
Total Descent: 439 ft
Total Ascent: 429 ft
Average speed: 2.8 mph
Top speed: 6.3 mph
Average pace: 12:05 /mi
Total distance: 5.0 mi

My first 3 miles averaged 14:27/mi , so I am ecstatic that I was able to achieve such a great time on my first 5 miles. However, I nearly collapsed when I got back home. I literally had to sit and drink for a few minutes before I could do my cool down stretching. While I was resting (feeling like I was dying) I received an amazing email! My first donation came today while I was out running. I am so grateful to my family and friends that are able to help me reach my goals!

Alright, now... the other application that I use when running is iPhone's music app. However, it is not music that I listen to. It is books! Thats right. The teacher who spends all of her extra money on books is also listening to books as well. :-)  I feel like the idea just came to be, but then I am reminded of the power of subliminal advertising. There was a comercial during the olympics with a man running to books like the Odessy and the Iliad. I, however, am running to books that my students would/ could be reading. I am currently listening to one a little above the reading level of my students, but I do have a few that could read it. I am currently running to Eragon. I have always wanted to read it, but due to its length, I have chosen other smaller books that my students would enjoy. (Just for clarification, I read them to be able to recommend them. How can I say that they would enjoy it if I have never read it.) I have a few books lined up for when Eragon is finished. Like a few Katie Kazoo, Switcheroo books which are great girly third grade books.

Well, thats all for now. I'll try to update again before next sunday. :-)