It's been a long, hot summer of recovery. The glute/hip/IT/knee/hip/glute/quad/pride injuries that have been rotating in a sort of wheel of torture are finally subsiding. This summer's been one that has provided interesting perspective that I likely otherwise wouldn't have sought. Leading up to Umstead in March, I was running faster than I had ever run...including a huge PR at the Chicago Marathon. While this was an absolute blast, I unintentionally became a slave to the watch. After a great long run through the beautiful countryside, I'd feel great joy...and then I'd look at my watch. Depending on the results, the joy would either persist or I'd mumble about how I could have shaved off another 3 seconds per mile or something. Now, don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with wanting to train to run as fast as you can. There is however something wrong when a given day's run results determine how you feel about yourself and your running. While getting injured this spring didn't feel like a blessing, the Lord certainly used it as one to help me thank Him for the GIFT of running that He provides. As my friend, Dave Stepp, mentioned to me, there is truly "joy in the journey". I'm now feeling healthy and almost at 100%. I'm still excited about intervals and long runs and getting as fast as I can, but now with a much more humble and thankful heart. I've learned as well to be smarter in my training...not trying to "nail" every run or workout. An article that helped me with this is linked. here: http://www.letsrun.com/2006/collegesuck.php
I'm registered for the Salem Lake 30K that is on 9/29/12. It's a great race on a beautiful course. I can't wait! I'm also planning on signing up for the 2013 Boston Marathon, racing the Carrboro 10K, and the Atlanta Marathon (10/28/12), so a busy fall for me. Looking forward to some great runs in the cooler weather.
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