It's a Sign

So in my last post I was waffling (mmm...waffles) on the idea of running a half marathon this fall. In the time that has passed since that post this is what has happened:

I decided to find a training plan and sign up for a race in September!!

Then....

I decided to scrap the whole idea and just keep running for the 'fun' of it!!!

Then....

I started reading the fabulous blog ladies I follow and was inspired by their recent accomplishments. Particularly Sandi at Sassy Runner Girl, who ran the Twenty Valley 1/2, which was down the street from my house.

Then...

I talked to someone at work who said "Don't run a 1/2 marathon, that's just crazy, why would you do that?"  Note to self...do not ask non-runners for running advice (unless they are family).

Then....I got a sign....Ahhha--hhhhaaa moment...

image: www.naturewalls.net

 
 in the form of Runner's World Magazine.
The focus of the issue was 1/2 marathons...how convenient. It has an basic 10 week rookie training plan and great tips on getting into the training. The kicker was the article by Marc Parent.

Sidebar: I ♥ Marc Parent...I don't actually know him, but I've followed his 'Newbie Chronicles' for the past couple years and he is so open and honest about being a new runner that I just immediately fell for his written word. I teared up when I read about him running with his son and I cheered him on as he tackled his first 5 miles. Also, being new to writing, I've been aware of writers I truly admire and I love his work. Take a moment to read a piece or two of his...very funny.

So Marc's article is about taking on the half. The whole first paragraph is about running a half marathon, well, no, trying to run a half marathon. It truly spoke to me. I think I want to virtually run my 1/2 along with Marc. I feel we are on the same page...pun totally intended.

So I was all inspired to start my training this week. I met my Fast Friend for a 6am run on Tuesday and got 6K in.
Run one...check.

Then the earth opened up and the fire's of hell have come to ruin my plans. This week has been the hottest week on record of all time. I know there are many of you out there dealing with this heatwave as well, so I know you sympathize. But why, oh, why am I actually interested in running now that the temperatures are unsafe?? Am I sabotaging my own plan here, did I do this on purpose...I wonder??

Anyway, the week remains at a total of 6kms run..

So, the question is...do I keep attempting this 1/2 marathon training or call it a loss and wait for cooler temperatures again?

Wishy Washy

I just can't seem to make up my mind about committing to another distance race this year. As the year started out I was very eager and ambitious..the Year of the Race! I thought I would be able to keep the excitement all year long.
 
Well, six months later the excitement is nowhere to be found. It seems to have melted into the humidity. I was originally thinking that this year would be when I finally tackled the half marathon. After successfully training and running a 10 miler I know that I can do the 13.1 miler...it's just I don't know if I want to.

All smiles after 10 miles...seems sooo long ago!

 I keep flip-flopping on this subject that even I'm sick of it. The thing is I am now 11 weeks away from the race I want to do, so it's do or die...kinda. Not to be overly dramatic but I should really commit to this thing to allow for the best training possible. Considering the lousy 5K I just ran tonight, I'm going to need as much time to train as possible. I have seriously decreased my distance and now 5Ks are about all I can (or want) to manage. I do tend to intervals while running them, but still, the distance isn't there.

PROS of running a half marathon in September:

• Great time of year (not too hot not too cold...juussst right)
• Great race (the Run for the Grapes is a tradition in my hometown and I've never toed the line at the half)
• Great friends (I might be able to convince a few friends to join me...you know who you are!!)
• Great goal (accomplishing a 1/2 is a great motivator to get my butt back in gear)
• Get it done (cross that baby off my list)

CONS of running a half marathon in September:

• It's a HALF MARATHON!!! (that's just crazy... that's 21.1 kms kids)
• The training (the long lonely runs, the training committment, the loss family time in the summer)
• The training (it's hard..I have to say it twice)
• The support (or lack there of, I'm worried about doing this without a coach and no kick in the pants)
• The timing (as I mentioned above, it's only 11 weeks away...am I pushing it?)
• The nerve! (seriously, this sciatic nerve thing could flare up again, right now it's under minimal control)

Thoughts? Suggestions? Advice? I know a lot of you ladies have experience with this so give me your best.

To run a half or not to run?...that is the question.