FKTs, struggle and validation

This past weekend two Fastest Known Times (FKT) were set by members of this rad community. But I am not pumped up about these records because of speed (although that was great too). It’s the way the pursuit of the FKT brought the athletes to life, bringing joy to training which can turn into a slog when you are putting in huge mileage weeks. These runs weren’t only about beating the boys (YUP SHE DID) or putting up a first time for women (YES SIR SHE DID), they were about having an adventure, putting meaning in the miles and seeing what you can do when only you are watching. 

You don't have to run races to be a runner.
Make running meaningful.
Look back and think, I DID THAT! 

If you are looking to set an FKT yourself, check out routes that are begging to be run here. Or run one of the routes for fun just and tell speed to stuff it. 

STRUGGLE
A good listen with two powerhouse runners in conversation about real struggle vs temporary struggle. 

NON-RUNNING JOY
Last week I asked you for some non-running joy and I was shocked at the depth of answers. I would have never guessed and truly, these responses brought me joy. 

• An e-bay seller expedited shipping on my new bike part and didn't charge me: "my treat" he said.  The generosity of a stranger!
• Recovery Slide Crocs, a little spa trip for my feet.
• Visiting all 480 stations in Boston’s ride share program (345 done!). Seeing a new one along a bike ride feels like discovering a hidden treasure. Last week I saw an orchestra rehearsal. 
• Ketchup chips from Grocery Outlet 
• I was having a conversation with a friend who is struggling with loneliness.  She asked how I cope with it as a single person living alone and I told her that my loneliness is a companion to me.  When I'm alone, sometimes "loneliness" drops in and keeps me company.
• Waking up to sunlight streaming through tall trees because I was brave enough to sleep with the rain fly peeled halfway off my tent.
• Finding out the insect repellent Permethrin works pretty darn good.
• Sour Albanese brand gummy bears are really tasty. (Especially if you rinse Permethrin off your fingers first.)
• Starting “Muscle” class at my gym even though I don’t have muscles just yet!

VALIDATED
I have been recommending Rice Krispy Treats for a long time and now it is bringing me great joy (and extra smug feelings) to see this article, "Rice Krispies Treats Are Upending the Billion-Dollar Athlete-Fuel Wars"

STRENGTH
JOIN ME for Strength Training for Runners this Wednesday. If squats do not bring you joy, you can fake answering the doorbell or leave to assist your child (real or pretend) scavenge dinner. Live to your screen. Free always.