I have a lot to say about the two weeks we spent in Oregon and Washington. We did a lot of really cool things and visited some awesome places. I’ll get to that over the next week or so, but the most important thing this vacation did for me was to relight my inner fire.
Pre-vacation, I was struggling. My runs weren’t going well. I was totally burned out by the heat in Virginia. I was just tired all the time. I constantly found myself escaping to the computer, but not to actually do anything productive. I just needed a break from “real life.”
For two weeks, I took a nice break. I mostly left my job at home. I only ran 3 times all week and two of those were races. We ate out way more than we have on any vacation since we had kids. I hiked, I read books, I went white water rafting. I posted a few times when the spirit moved me. I read a few blog posts here and there. I cut way back on social media.
And I feel like I’m back where I want to be. I’ve run twice in the last two days, despite the heat. My body feels rested and eager. My mind is no longer going in five million directions at once. Which, of course, means I’m ready to set my next goal.
I have a thing to settle with the Army 10 miler. I’ve run it in 1:34:51, 1:30:49, and 1:32:00.
This year I want to break 1:30. I’ve been after that goal for a LONG time now and it’s time to buckle down.
This year I’m training for THAT race. This year Army is my A race.
86 days, people, 86 days.
I am working to get to your sentence above.
I am working to get “back to where I want to be”
YAY FOR YOU!!
Awesome! Wonderful what a good break can do. All the best with your training. I’m sure you’ll get that sub 1:30. Have a good weekend!
Great goal! It’s amazing what a vacation can do for you. Enjoy.
I’m so glad the vacation was good for you!
Awesome to have found that motivation again! Mine is lacking a bit as well, I think the (relatively) cooler weather in PA in a few weeks will help a lot… new routes, change of pace. Love your goal of going after the sub-1:30!
I have had those exact same time in life where your mind is everywhere.. and can completely relate to retreating to the computer. I am excited for you as you enter into this training cycle for Army 10 miler; it was the one race I regret not doing before I left Northern VA. GO get your 1:30!!!!
And that’s why vacations are so important. It’s good to hear how enthused and energetic you are.