Solo LR Sunday with dreams that scare me

It's been a few weeks since I've done my long run by myself (I usually try and encourage (or bribe) friends to come with me) but this morning I did my LR solo...and it was just what I needed today...

 (That smile doesn't scream excitement but I was kind of excited about my LR plan for today)

The past few days have been a whirlwind of emotion and this morning I really needed a good run to clear my head. I was eager to complete this LR because my plan was to push myself past my comfort zone. A part of me feels like I'm getting too "comfortable" with the mileage build-up process and therefore not pushing myself to perform better.

I was decked out with my knee brace (although as I get better with my form I am hoping I won't have to rely on it anymore)...

The arrow is pointing to my right knee (without the brace) do you see how it turns inward even though my feet are straight? The knee brace on the left leg also helps to prevent that. I don't want to run with two braces so form correction is mandatory

I started out a little earlier than I normally do (in my effort to beat the heat and humidity) and about a mile into the run the weather still pretty nice...

I tried to focus on form throughout the run but still noticed my right knee bumping my left knee...

I tried to correct that by lifting my knees higher so that my feet wouldn't kick out to the side as much.

I also tried to work on not leaning forward from my waist...

I still haven't mastered the "lean from your ankles" form yet.

I pushed myself to complete the LR mileage I mentally hoped for and am really proud of myself for getting it done...

You can't really tell in the pic but I was soaking wet by the end of the run...

And even though I was exhausted I felt this happy...

I am determined to become a better and stronger runner. I know I will have it harder than most because I have anatomical and biomechanical issues that cause my poor running form and put me at greater risk for injury. But I'm not going to let that stop me. I have BIG dreams for my running life, which are not limited to my running bucket list. If my dreams were not big, all this effort, all the pain, and the time, dedication and money would not be worth it...

Running has really changed my life. I've heard that from runners a lot in the past, but I never really "got it" until I saw the difference for myself in my own running journey. Moving forward, the least I can do is make sure that when I run I give it my all...

How were your LRs this weekend?

Has running changed your life? Share how! (I love hearing/reading these stories)

Anyone has special Labor Day running plans?