Heading down to Philadelphia today to support some amazing friends who are bravely running the marathon tomorrow. So inspiring, plus it's my first time in Philly.

Met up with the group today for an easy run, ran with J on the way out to the bridge & with S on the way back. Felt good to go slow, I think my body appreciated the pace.

But we will see how my second run of the day goes, with the Scott family. I am actually a little scared.

Now I must start prepping for the Phoenix Half, very excited about running in AZ this January.

Distance: 8 miles
State of Mind: Calm

Yoga practice tonight was elevated to a whole new level! Ali literally turned my world upside down with unique variations, completely new poses & a spirit of someone who truly enjoys each & every moment of her life. I feel blessed just being in her presence.

We also did something that I have never done before, thai massage. We partnered up & used our bodies to literally push our partners to whole new levels. I was fortunate enough to have my yoga crush choose me as her partner, which was mind blowing. And not toxic at all.

Distance: n/a

State of Mind: Completely cleansed, ready to take it all on

Ran with the group tonight, didn't feel so slow/bad so maybe things are a-changing. It really is so nice to run with such an ecletic bunch, I wish all the Philly marathons luck this weekend. Can't wait to watch.

Distance: 5.35 miles
State of Mind: Not really caring...but that's okay

Enjoyed an easy run mid-morning with the hubs on our day off together. Again, he easily kept a pace much quicker than mine but taking away the sadness of my slowness, it was really fun to be with him. We grabbed bagels from Bergen Bagel after the run, so yummy.

Distance: 5.35 miles

State of Mind: A little blank

Headed up to Van Cortland today for the XC Championships 5K. Truthfully, I wasn't really into the idea of running it, I think part of me just didn't want to miss out on a race. Maybe the whole not-doing-marathoners mindset is creeping into my decisions in ways I can't quite recognize.

The place was packed with what seemed to be post collegiate runners, which made me feel a little out of place. But I love Van Cortland & I thought it would be fun to get out there & run a fast 5K.

But, oh boy, was I wrong. From the minute I started the race, I was spent. I found the whole race extremely challenging, the uphills just as much as the downhills. I truthfully was pushing so hard (I was wearing a heartrate monitor to prove it) BUT my pace was ungodly slow. And got slower by the moment. I ended the race feeling embarrassed.

Distance: 1 mile warm up, 5k (not giving the time), 1 mile warmdown

State of Mind: Is this a sign?

Woke up tired this morning, but still excited to run. Met up with the group & did a moderately paced run, full of boys boys & more boys. Such a great way to keep inspired, but it would help if the weather would get even a little more warmer.

My foot bothered me just once, which is great news! But still trying to figure out why I have so much energy some days while others I struggle to hold a consistent pace. I am becoming more & more confident that this has to do with my new vegetarian lifestyle but not quite sure how to adjust.

Invited G over afterwards, for some yummy homemade granola. Only wish he would have stayed longer.

Distance: ~9.5 miles

State of Mind: Up & down