When did 3 miles become so hard to run?

I went out for a run last night. I realize that I was doing the C25K program to get back into running and it worked well for me. Last night though I just wanted to go for a run (and I had finished the 9 week program). I ran the entire time, but it just seemed more challenging than I remember it. I do need new shoes, I can tell because I feel like I'm getting shin splints. I kept going though and it felt better...sometimes I think it's just my body's way of warming up.

At the end of the run I felt very winded and tired...not my normal reaction to a run. I'm so glad that I went out there, but it was a bit discouraging...guess I should find motivation instead of discouragement though. Why you ask? I was able to run the 3 miles, but I'm no where near where I was in the past. I can get back there though, and I can build up my miles...I just need to be motivated to do so.

Another positive is my pants are finally fitting more back to normal! After a few weeks of odd fitting pants, things seem to be leveling out. I'm guessing it's the combination of increased activity, increased salads, decreased carbs, my (small glass of ) green smoothie in the morning, and the bc pill working it's way out of my system. it's nice to feel as though I'm losing weight during the holiday season rather than putting it on!

So here we go...depending on how I feel this evening it will either be another run or some yoga to balance me out.