TGIF. This has been a busy week and I’m tired. Thursday was my birthday and it was an ok day (not amazing, but acceptable), until the end of the day. Then I happened to notice that the bubbles from Shoo’s bubble bath were coming out of our basement toilet. I’m pretty sure that’s not a good sign. I’m hoping that when the plumber shows up it’s not a big clog, but I’m mentally prepared for it to be a big deal. Sigh.
So, let’s get on with some runfessions…
- I’ve been using Hansons Marathon Method to train for Marine Corps Marathon. In theory, at least. I haven’t hit a full week of training in over a month. And speed work? I don’t even know what that is anymore.
- On Sunday, I finished my goal of 23 half marathons in 23 states in fewer than 365 days. You know what my overall feeling was about that? Relief that it was over. I feel like I’m an imposter Fanatic because I actually get tired of racing. Most fanatics seem to be constantly on the search for the next race…
- I set a goal of 1200 miles this year. I may make it, but my mileage is all.over.the.place. One month I’ll run 150+ miles. The next I’ll run 40. Last month I ran just over my goal for 100 miles and I will be close again this month, but I did 26.2 of those in one weekend. I need to get back to more consistent mileage – even if it’s a bit lower than in past years. This all over the place is not smart training.
- For my birthday, I went on a bit of a shopping spree at Skirt Sports. I’m totally in love with the new patterns, so I couldn’t resist getting some new fall things. Thank you to Beer Geek for his generous gift LOL.
- Here’s the big runfession of the day… I’m probably going to sell my Marine Corps Marathon bib. I’m just not feeling it this year. I’ve given myself a week to get back on track with my training. I’m still in a place where I can manage it. Running two half marathons last weekend makes it possible + I have 9 weeks left to train. I just need to see if I can find my “want to”. It’s not fun to train for a marathon when running is a “have to.”
If I drop MCM, all I have left this fall is Ragnar DC and the Great Chocolate Race. It feels weird to not be racing, but I think it’s time to give my body and my wallet a break. So, if you are running Ragnar DC, look for Mad Fox 12 Pack. We will leave no beer behind. ;o)
I’m linking up with Courtney, Mar, and Cynthia for Friday Five and Marcia for Runfessions. Make sure to stop by and check out what everyone else is up to.
Yikes on the plumbing issue! We had our sink clog Thanksgiving. Had to stack up ALL the dishes and wait until I plumber could come the next day, I’m doing Reston 10 and ATM this fall. I usually have something in November or December, but not yet.
I hear that Hanson training plan is tough! My friend was using that to train for a fall marathon and she just recently threw in the towel as well. You make some valid points and whatever you decide will be what’s best for you. Happy belated birthday!
It feels really weird not to be racing. I miss being on a training plan. I feel kind of aimless! Yet I know it’s good for me…
Congrats on Mercury status! I am exhausted just reading about it. As you know, I’m struggling with the “want to” vs have to as well. MCM is a tough one to pass on but if that’s the right choice then so be it. Thanks for linking!
Total agreement with you…when it’s a “have to” and not a “get to,” it’s time to reconsider goals. I see (and hear) people all the time complaining about all the miles they “need” to do and all of the dreaded training runs that are hanging over their heads…..really. Running is not something that should be an all-out chore, should it? By the way, you’re a beast for all of those 13.1’s 😉
You have run some serious miles lately! Sounds like you might need to take a little mental break 🙂
Ooh i have a birthday coming up too. Maybe I should do that same spree 🙂
Hope your plumbing issue is very small and I hope you are still celebrating your birthday! 🙂
I’ve been taking a break this summer because sometimes running felt like a “have to”. I’m starting to feel like I “get to” again, which makes it a lot more fun.
I’ve heard Hanson’s is hard… I agree with your thoughts about MCM, running and racing should be fun, not feel like an obligation or a chore. Happy belated birthday!
Congratulations on your arrival at Mercury! Freaking.Awesome. I’m sure you are a little tired and once rested up, might change your mind on the MCM? Happy Birthday too! A SkirtsSports spree is the perfect way to celebrate. Good luck with the plumbing issue.
Racing shouldn’t be a chore. It’s why I only do 2-3 halfs a year. Maybe you need to be old to have that perspective? Nay, I guess, look at Darlene . . .
But it IS hard. And it can wear you down. You may very well feel differently next week . . .
Good luck with the plumber!
Due to being sick and family obligations, not much speed work here either. I actually like speed work. More than tempos. Oh well.
You do this for YOU and because you love it so do what you want. What you really, really want. If you don’t really really want to do it, don’t. And whatever you decide, it will be the right decision.
Happy Birthday! I am in awe of your races, it is amazing, I think I would need to take a year off to recover! Enjoy yourself! and I hope that leak isn’t huge…
Happy birthday to you ! I am training for the NYC marathon and the summer and my vacation completely threw training off. Now it is 100 degrees here. Ugh. I am looking forward to more structure of the school year and cooler days…. it will help my mojo.