8:37!!!

That was my average time on a 5-mile run this morning at 6am!!! I am so darn proud of this. There were a few contributing factors:

1. Michael fixing up a nice date last night that started soooo late, because I had a meeting after work. We didn't put the TV on. We just talked and caught up, and it was lovely, which led to me having the best night's sleep ever.

2. I'm back in my weight training routine, and I've been working out my hamstrings, which felt really strong this morning.

3. I think I wore exactly the right outfit to stay warm. It was 42 degrees this morning! The Underarmour, long-sleeved top from my mother-in-law was perfect! Plus I busted out my running gloves, and my fingers didn't go numb.

4. Michael got up and ran with me, but he let me go at my own pace, so I felt comfortable warming up and then pushing my speed a bit. Notice how my husband is 50% of the reason I rocked this morning.

So I did 5 miles at 8:37/mile in 43:05 minutes. I feel so awesome. Well, not really, I'm actually starving right now and feel kind of exhausted, but I'm excited that I got through a speed barrier. I know it will be easier the next time. Now I just need to find some caffeine.