Even though I took today off work, I still woke up at 5:55. Getting out of bed wasn’t easy but as soon as I saw specks of blue sky waking up became far easier.
It’s rained so much in Geneva this week that I figured I’d be doing my long run in the rain this morning. In fact, when organizing my gear last night I included a visor and my running raincoat in the pile. As I didn’t have to be at work this morning, I took my time getting ready. I treated the morning much like a race morning. I sipped my coffee and ate my peanut butter and banana before getting ready.
By 7 o’clock, I was out the door, without my raincoat, excited to spend the next 2 hours running along the lake. 
I have started getting a bit bored with my regular route so I changed things up today, heading further north along the lake than normal. I only had the lake on my side for half the run but for three of the middle miles I weaved through small towns, sunflower fields and vineyards.
This route was a nice diversion and added a few hills to my normally flat, long run. My lake route has spoiled me with the multiple water fountains. I underestimated my water need since the temperature was only 65. But, due to the 90% humidity, I was sweating immediately and finished my water after just a few miles. There were no water fountains past the second mile and, unfortunately, many of the local bakeries and cafes I passed refused to give me water or let me use the bathroom. I am going to leave some money in my Spibelt from now on so I can buy water in the future.
At the half way point I stopped to take a few pictures and try a new to me Gu flavor, Salted Caramel. I have tried using natural food like dates and apricots for fuel but have found that my body is craving something a bit more substantial during long runs. Even though, this Gu had caffeine it didn’t upset my stomach and the flavor was delicious. In fact, I felt like I was eating candy! If you tend not to like most Gu flavors I highly recommend this flavor! I like it better than my old standby, Vanilla frosting.
I was perfectly in the zone, with just four miles left in my run, when a sudden, wet surprise snapped me back to reality. After 8 years of running a bird, finally pooped on me. I’m not sure why they say it’s good luck to be pooped on by a bird because it felt like anything but this morning. Of course, I didn’t have any paper with me so instead I resorted to cleaning my hand and water bottle with a few leaves. 
As soon as it happened I couldn’t stop laughing. While laughter isn’t how most people would react to this I couldn’t help myself. For years, I’ve often found myself thinking that I am surprised I don’t hear more runners get targeted by birds during long runs.
This run didn’t feel easy, but I’m proud of my pace especially since I changed things up a bit and added a few more hills. My pace for the 14 miles was 9:55, perfectly on target for my marathon goals. 
The next time I head out for a long run it’ll be back on American soil in Savannah, Georgia since next weekend’s long run is replaced by my triathlon!
Have you ever been pooped on by a bird?
Great post, seems like you had all sorts of challenges along the way including the bird incident – but what a spectacular view to have while you’re running. I must admit, I’ve not been pooped on yet by a bird on a run but it’s inevitable..
Also, it’s a shame that none of the local businesses let you use their loos/gave you tap water.
Love it! That hasn’t happened to me yet, but I’m sure it will at some point!
I can’t believe no one would give you water?! That is so crazy!
I love that Gu flavour!
I’m more appalled that the cafes and bakeries didn’t give you water. I KIND of understand not letting you use the loo (although clearly that is nasty of them) but not giving you tap water???
Salted Caramel is the BEST! I could eat it for fun!!
The last time I got pooped on by a bird, I was actually in Geneva! I was out to lunch with my boss at the time and was mortified. Haha I hope you are having a wonderful time there! Liz has been filling me in on everything. I hope all is well!
Hello friend!! Life is great and we’re loving Geneva! I can’t believe you too were pooped on in Geneva 🙂
I had that happen before on the boardwalk at the shore. I thought I brushed into someone with vanilla ice cream. Nope, sea gull poop!
That’s great that you ran your 14 miler at your goal pace! I like Salted Caramel, too. Whenever I eat something new during a run, it adds just a little more fun to it!
I bought that flavor when it came out this winter hoping it would help me stomach GU. Glad to hear it might just work! Awesome pace and I have had my ‘bird experience’ here in DC for sure 🙂
I cannot believe they wouldn’t give you some water! Geez. And salted caramel is the best flavor! I’m not a huge fan of gels but I really like that one!