Free Library on the Run

This literally stopped me in my tracks. On the corner, in front of someone's house was this Little Free Library. Borrow a book, add one that you're done reading. What a concept.

Last week: 34.5 total miles

Saturday: 8 miles

I have finished week 8 (out of 12) of half-marathon training.

Monday: 3 miles

Tuesday: 5 miles with pick-ups last 2 miles

Wednesday: 3 x 1600 x 800, 7.5 miles

Thursday: 5 miles, supposed to be a tempo run, but just didn't have the speed

Friday: rest

Saturday: 8 miles

Sunday: 6 miles (8:30 pace) supposed to be 12 miles or 105 mins. It was a struggle - that's all the push I had in me, mentally :(

I'm concerned how I'll do in the up-coming race, my speed just isn't there and I get fatigued sooner than usual. No aches or pains, though, which is a great feeling. We'll see how this week goes.

Happy training!

Finding the Simple Joy of Running

[source]

It is surprising the affect the weather has had on me — this winter and now this thing they call "spring" — 45° and rainy (they are predicting another week of rain = 2 weeks+ without sun). Chicago has its good points, but these gray, wet skies and (flat) wet roads have me questioning why we ever moved from sunny, beautiful California. Plus, I've been sick.

All that has been zapping my running mojo. I've got to shake it, because I really, really like running. But now, don't feel like it AT ALL.

Hence the purchase of the above book.

I've heard so many good things about Chi Running and can't believe I haven't owned it until now.

I was sold when I read on Danny Dreyer's blog Eight Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Run.

1. Not warming up and starting off too fast
2. Thinking you have to go faster than you should
3. Running too many days in a row
4. Running too far on new terrain
5. Running through non-productive pain or injury
6. Incorrect fueling and/or dehydration
7. Wrong shoes

8. Being too serious
Nothing creates a buzz-kill around your running more than taking your self too seriously. Enjoy yourself, and laugh at, and learn from your foibles. Becoming a good runner is a process that takes practice. Getting caught up in results and split times can pull the plug on  the joy you could have from simply running. . .

I just want to run, get in the zone and enjoy it without other things tugging at my thoughts. I want to find the JOY in running again.

< I have added the link to Chi Running to Favorite Links :)

Happy running and reading.