The next week will be a challenge.

I have SO MUCH going on.  I’ll really need to concentrate and manage my time wisely to get in my workouts and be pretty conscious to stay on track of my nutrition.  It’s SO EASY to get off schedule and off track when life gets in the way!  

With this weekend being Labor Day, I’m actually visiting my parents for the weekend.  It’s a great way for me to see family and relax/ recharge out of the city.  It’s a great calm before the storm.  

Tomorrow is Monday, but it’s also Labor Day.  And it’s also my birthday!  My friends are throwing me a birthday barbecue.  Most of my closest friends are coming, even ones that no longer live in Chicago and happen to be in town for the weekend.  I always say people aren’t around for my birthday because often folks go out of town.  BUT that also means folks are IN TOWN visiting as well!  It’ll be pretty fantastic being surrounded by old friends and catching up.  

Tuesday, I actually have a reservation for one of my favorite restaurants in the city, as an extension of my birthday celebration.  Wednesday I was meant to help out for an event with my triathlon club (of which I’m one of the volunteer organizers), but I was able to earn a reprieve from having to attend since another friend has agreed to take charge of that event.  I am, however, required to oversee an event on Thursday.  Then Friday through Monday, I’ll be in Madison camping and volunteering for the Ironman with my tri club!

To make sure I stay on track, I plan on lifting Monday (birthday session!), Wednesday (thankful for my reprieve!), and Friday (before heading to Madison!)  I won’t be too crazy about sticking to any nutrition plan for my bday bbq or the dinner on Tuesday and just enjoy the food and the company.  I’ll also try to squeeze in some runs or other cardio on Tuesday and Thursday, as well as doing a long run on Saturday while I’m in Madison.  I’ll also make sure to pack some relatively healthy snacks (fruit!!) for my camping trip and not fill up too much on S’mores!  

 

Reflections of Gratitude
I’m grateful to have so many friends and activities planned, even though it makes it hard to stay on track.  I’m excited to see my closest friends tomorrow, especially the ones visiting from out of town.  I’m looking forward to spending time with my tri club friends Thursday through Monday.