Happy Tuesday everyone!

I am feeling really optimistic and excited about this week. Something about the weather finally warming up and having the flexibility to do all the workouts and runs I want. I liked the structure of my marathon training plan, but it got to the point where I almost got sick of doing the runs because they felt forced. Like I had to try to stick as closely to the plan as possible or else. Now that Delaware is behind me, I’m excited to play around with some speed work and really get back into cross-training.

I also have a few shorter races already on the calendar!

(Current mood.)

First up, is the Boston Run To Remember 5-Miler this Sunday. I’ve never actually run a 5-mile race before, so yay for an automatic PR!!! I’m looking forward to pushing myself on this one(within reason – no more trips to the ER anytime soon!). I really want to work on my speed this summer, so I think this could be a good race to just gauge where I’m at.

The following weekend, my mom and I will be running the AIDS Walk and Run 5k Boston. The course is right along the Charles, in an area where I sometimes run after work. It’s a really beautiful area, as evidenced by this photo I took a few months ago.And then of course, there is the Runner’s World Classic in July!!!! I know I mentioned that I would be running the half marathon here a few weeks ago. Well, surprise!! I’m actually doing the Hat Trick! For those of you who aren’t familiar with Runners World events, the Hat Trick refers to running all 3 of the races they offer over the weekend – the 5k and 10k on Saturday, and then the half marathon on Sunday! This will be my first time ever trying the whole 3 races in 2 days thing, and I’m psyched. I have to admit though, I don’t think that this will realistically lead to a new half marathon PR, which I had originally been hoping to go for. I haven’t really figured out what I want my strategy to be for the weekend – Do I try to race the 5k or the 10k? Or should I take both of those easy and be more aggressive on the half? Thoughts, anyone?

My mom and I are also toying with the idea of a race in late August that would cross off another state for us… We haven’t finalized any plans there though, so I’ll keep you posted. 🙂

Couple of reminders – If you’re looking for a new hydration belt for summer, I highly recommend the SPIBelt H2O Venture Series (Read my review for all the details here). Use code nora10 at checkout for 10% off and free shipping from spibelt.com!

If you’re local (or even if you’re not) and interested in running the 5k, 10k, or half marathon at the Runner’s World Classic you can still sign up! Use code RAVE at checkout for 10% off.

Have a great week!