It's been quite a while since I attempted what I would call a long run. I had hoped to do a 15-miler last Sunday, before hitting week 1 of the 'must complete' training programme last week. But icy conditions and an indescribable bout of utter laziness meant I never got round to it.

So, this week actually marks week 1 of the training programme I have scheduled - any session I miss from now on is a definite dent in my progress towards being capable of completing the distance in April, never mind doing so comfortably. I have completed just one of the three weekday sessions (on Christmas morning, no less). Today's session was to be the first 'long' run, a 5-miler in theory.

Having missed quite a lot of training recently, however, I decided instead to attempt 10 miles. Sort of just to remind myself what it felt like and reassure myself I could still do it. In traditional Christmas fashion, my belly has ballooned. Thanks to all the 'friends' who have so compassionately pointed this out.

Let's make no bones about it. My stomach was used in Copenhagen to illustrate conspicuous consumption. It is a new entry in the Guinness book of manmade landmarks visible from space. And I'm very excited to be featured on page 14 of the new edition of Ladybird books' '101 things for pregnant women to point, stare and laugh at'. In brief, my compression clothing rolled up and down rather than attempting to hold my anatomy in place and if I hadn't been wearing a modesty outer layer I'd have resembled one of those sad midriff-baring slapper types.

But the run was quite good. When the sun came out, the sea was dazzling. Even with the headwind, which for once was at least gusty rather than constant, I made decent progress. Miles 7 and 8, which I usually simply hate, were quite comfortable and there was a hint of a sprint towards the end, inspired by two old dears - both on crutches with cigarettes dangling from their bottom lips! - who shouted 'keep going' as I struggled to overtake them.

1 hour, 35 minutes and 24 seconds later it was all over. My pace does not seem to be improving, but if I can shift this 'holiday weight' I'm sure things will improve over the next few months. Big shout out to everyone who did the whole wavy-smiley thing. It makes running much more fun, doesn't it?

Another party this afternoon and then tomorrow is a totally vegetative recovery day, ready to go back to work (and get some rest!) on Tuesday.