Asthma with a view

I was in Seattle this weekend and I really wanted to run 12 miles. I didn't mention my last long run where I had an asthma attack at mile 8.5. It was frustrating, but there is not much I can do about it. (Except carry my inhaler with me, which I don't- bad girl!!) Once it happens it is very difficult for me to continue running. I guess you need to be able to breathe to run. The good news was I was near one of my friends' houses, so I knocked on her door and when she answered it I just started bawling. I don't think she knew what to do with me. :-) She took me into the kitchen where she had pancakes and orange julius, and I truly felt like I was in heaven.

So, back to Seattle. I am determined to get into double digits. I found a route that I felt safe running. It was pretty hilly but I felt great. I got to the top of an overpass when I hit 10 miles. The view was incredible and I was so excited have run 10 miles that I stopped to take a picture on my phone and enjoy the view.



Well, that was the end of my "run." The asthma kicked in and I couldn't get my heart rate to come down. I waited and enjoyed the view a little longer, but unfortunately I couldn't get going again without the asthma returning. So, I walked the last 3 miles home. The good news is, about a half mile from the house I could tell my asthma was gone. Sure enough I started running and I was fine. That is the first time I have been able to run again after having an asthma attack. Sure, it was after 2 1/2 miles of walking, but it's a good sign.

That's my story. I am determined to beat this! I just can't do it when I am nursing. I took medication last year and that is when I had my favorite race- half marathon of 1:49! I am going to keep running, try to stretch and warm up, bring my inhaler with me, and just not stress about it.

Any other ideas?

PS
Not impressed with my phone's picture capabilities. I guess it wasn't worth stopping for!