So why am I running on empty today? On Monday after a lovely day with my brother and sister at Birmingham's Christmas Market with Gluwein and a long lunch, it was off to the city's donation centre to give blood. I know from last time, that it takes 2-3 weeks to get my iron levels up sufficiently to run at pre donations levels. So I loaded this run up, determined to take it slowly and walk if necessary. Andy was encouraging me to run by feel, not to a pace or a distance. Not every day can you achieve a desired notional pace and you should treat your body right, just take it easy and run. This is what I took to heart and I kept on running, really, really slowly and found not only I could run but that I was actually really enjoying it. I wasn't pushing it and it felt natural. This is the way to go, and actually, it reminded me that I should go more slowly, more often and it's not all about pace or PBs.
At this time of year the blood donation service are desperate for volunteers to donate. It's easy to do, nothing to be frightened about and only takes about an hour, sometimes less. So if you're not already a donor, you could think about starting.
And the pic? My restful morning yesterday creating my festive table decorations .