My pharmacy thought it would be cool to switch me to a generic thyroid hormone replacement with a disclaimer saying the medication may look different, but is not different. My hypothyroidism begs to differ.

I feel like crap.

I sleep for 12 hours, take unplanned naps, and have become a couch ornament with 3 blankets and the thermostat at 70. That has been my week.

I am investigating solutions, but as we all know the healthcare system is slow. I have had to prioritize my energy – which means doing my runs, but not necessarily doing the dishes; going to work, but not necessarily doing errands; lying on the couch and also lying on the couch.

The longest long run

I did do my 20 mile run Sunday (and paid for it dearly Monday, wake up at noon and bedtime at 8 anyone?).

It was supposed to be 32 degrees with little wind chill – I was so upset to wake up to 25 degrees. It could have been worse, but I’m currently working with little motivation thyroid.

Long Run Breakfast

Can I run in my robe?

I averaged 10:12/mile which would get me my sub 4.5 hour goal in a marathon race. 3 weeks until the marathon!

5 Marathon long run lessons

1. The first 4.5 miles are hard. At 4.5, I eat my first snack. I don’t know if I’m just mentally not in the correct mindset at the beginning of the run, or if I’m not getting enough accessible carbs at the start.
2. Miles 10-16, I tend to go into autopilot where I am moving, but am not focused or putting forth significant effort. They are my slowest miles.
3. My mid-run nutrition is slowing me down, like an entire minute each time I have to open and eat a Gu. I typically avoid gummies like Shot Bloks because of their size, but I am exploring the idea of going exclusively to them due to their manageability. I can cut them into smaller pieces.
4. New practice this run: After every split, I threw out whatever negative thought came to mind and gave myself positive feedback. I’m maintaining pace. Just push a little harder this mile. The run seemed to go by faster this way – rather than dismissing the last mile and pessimistically entering the next, I congratulated myself for the last mile and looked forward to the next.
5. I look longingly toward 10:00/mile, and the mid-run miles slowed me down. I ran a sub 9 mile for mile 19 to catch up and get a better average pace. That shows me that I have the strength to complete a marathon, and that my time goal is reachable.

Savannah City Hall

Bonus: There were less tourists since it was cold.

Bird waiting for ferry

My first marathon training cycle, I just followed the formula and checked off the miles. I am still a newbie, but with my second round I am beginning to see patterns emerge. I can see simple places to improve. I look forward to learning more about running.

I also look forward to a proper functioning thyroid.