Nothing That A Little Retail Therapy Can't Fix

82 Days To Go

I am coming to you this evening on the heels of a much-needed and very non-training conducive girls weekend. This past weekend was spent with some of my best girlfriends in Atlanta engaging in some retail therapy, marathon dining, and revert-you-right-back-to-high school giggle sessions. The trip had been planned for quite a few weeks now since the Hubs arrival back to the homefront was scheduled. He was insistent that I had a little "me" time after playing single mom for three months. And with little to no hesitation, I agreed. I also took the running shoes. I even slept in my running apparel one of the two nights I was away. I did not, however, run. And you know what? I feel no guilt.

What filled this hole, you ask? (Let's just pretend you ask while I indulge in a bit of self-exploration.) Maybe it was the priceless memories that I made with some of my best girlfriends...or getting to wear a dress and dangle earrings without the threat of a baby spit-up stain and the possibility of having my ear lobe ripped in half by a tiny tot hand on a mission. Or maybe it was the Real Housewives of Atlanta housewife spotting (remember my reality-trash TV guilty pleasure/obsession?!?). It might have been the superior (yes, non diet-friendly) meals I splurged on for 48 hours straight that filled that hole of running. Honestly though, I think it just may be these teal Hunter wellies that I came home with that ate all of that the guilt away and gave me that missing endorphin spike.

That being said, I realize there are 82 training days left until the half-marathon and I am jumping right back into my training plan. I skipped the Stretch and Strengthen day today and threw my little monkey (oh, how I missed his squeezy self) in the jogger this morning for our run. I feel refreshed and ready to return to the grind. That being said, I cant emphasize the importance of taking a little "you" time. My solo runs have been a great outlet for this, but every now and then a splurge of great girlfriends, fine wine, and new shoes (that aren't for running) is just what the doctor ordered.

Highlight of Last Week: No need to repeat - see above (smile).

Lesson of Last Week: Indulge without guilt every once in a while. Everything in moderation. When you are done, pick back up, hit the ground running, and be thankful for the opportunity you had to recharge.

Power Song of Last Week: Love the Way You Lie by Eminem featuring Rihanna. While I am sure this is a great song to run to, it is even that much more enjoyable singing at the top of your lungs while driving down the interstate with one of your best friends and a fun-filled weekend destination in sight. (I did download this for my runs too. )