If you look REAL closely, you can see a deer just up the trail from me.

With the Chicago Distance Classic just a week away i was in desparate need for some peace and quiet. I needed someplace - and something - that would give my brain a break from thinking about registration numbers, porta-potties, and medal lanyards.

Because running is both a profession and a passion, when I need to clear my head I'll often do something OTHER than run. I'll head out for a half-day on the motorcycle or, in this case, grab the moutain bike and ride the trails near Willow Springs. 

I know that it's called "cross-training", but for me - especially when I need a break - it's not training at all. It's riding my bike. It's being 12 years-old again and going for a bike ride. No pressure. No goal. No expectation. A ride. Pure and simple.

And having to stop for a deer makes it all the more special. It's a great reminder that there is a world out there that I can choose to be a part of, or apart from. Yesterday, i was a part of. And THAT was good.

Waddle on,

John