Break's Over!

Well, that was fun.  Break's over and it's time to get back to running.  I'm feeling rested and refreshed.  I hope you all didn't think I gave up running or anything :-)

I'll be starting back this evening with a short run to shake things out.  The goal for this week is something around 20-ish miles.  My project for this winter is to build my weekly mileage from my normal pre-break 30 mpw up to 40 mpw.

Here are some scenes from my extended break:

A "moderately" difficult trail in the Smoky Mountains

Laurel Falls, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Smokies showing why they are called the Smokies at Newfound Gap

Abram Falls in Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Running in New Places

In the summer I travel a lot for my job.  This year I struggled with how was I going to fit running into my routine while on the road.  What I found is that it's lots of fun to run in new places.  Since most of the places I go to are somewhat rural it's pretty easy to find a quiet road or bike path to run on.  The new scenery is a nice mental break to my normal running routes at home.  So, this summer I've learned that it's better to get up and out of my hotel room at night and get my run on rather than lay around and watch TV, no matter how slow I go.  A nice side benefit is that I feel better while working 12-ish hour days.  I also stay aware of my hydration and am careful about what and how much I eat, which has benefits beyond running better.

Do you try to work runs in while traveling?  Any strategies for finding a route you'd care to share?

Resting

Resting today.  I've walked or run for the prior 3 straight days and not wanting to streak, I took today off.  Besides I was traveling for work so resting is just easier today.  I did enjoy a wonderful bbq pulled pork sandwich at Friske Orchard today on the way home.  Yum!  Asparagus is in season right now and every road side produce stand had some.  Good stuff.

Last night found me in Charlevoix, MI.  I really wish I had pictures for you.  It was gorgeous.  Nice, clear, blue water.  Beautiful sandy beach.  Temp was ~50 when I went for my run with a breeze right off Lake Michigan.  The sunset was radiant with oranges, reds, pinks and purples.  I ran a short 2.5 miles to celebrate National Running Day, but I also just wanted to experience some of this scenery as a runner instead of hanging around the hotel watching television.

Back to resting for me.  Hope you all are enjoying your Thursday.

Travelin'

This week I've been traveling so the whole running/workout schedule has been a little random.  Last night I ran 5 miles on the hotel treadmill.  I swear it was 80 degrees in the fitness center.  Phew.  Good practice for summer I guess.  My plan for tonight is more of the same.

Saturday is my first race of the year:  The Road Ends 5-mile trail race.  I'm starting to be a little excited about it.  Should be tons of fun.

Do you suppose buffets are a good fueling strategy 48 hours before a race?  Depends on the choices one makes I suppose.  I hope it works out :)