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Since saying goodbye to my Garmin for the time being, I've completed only a few runs. I like how I've been feeling and I'm going to keep this break going. Temperatures in Chicago have cooled off a smidge, lending to some comfortable runs (instead of "omg I want to die. This sucks" runs). On Saturday I got up early and got in an 8 miler before the sun was high in the sky.

So have you all been watching the Olympics and seeing all the drama unfold in swimming and gymnastics? Missy Franklin and that forever huge smile. Ryan Lochte and uh Ryan Lochte. The upsets in womens gymnastics. We are only on day 4 folks and the track and field events haven't even started yet!! I've been following along the coverage via twitter, Facebook, and NBCOlympics.com. You can even watch events live on the website! In preparation for yet another Olympic day, I has myself an American breakfast.

Team USA cereal (from Kellogg's of course) with blueberries on top. It was patriotic and it was delicious. I'll continue to wear my red, white, and blue outfits this week in honor of the Olympics. What are you doing to show your patriotism? Dressing like Will Ferrell ala SNL?

P.S. Have you entered my Pro Compression raffle yet? Only $2 per entry this time around!!

I had a bit of an epiphany these last few days. Since Rock N Roll, I decided to take a few days off. I needed a mental break from the heat and the pressure I put on myself. This summer has been hot. The hottest summer in 70 years, to be exact. That doesn't really lend itself to PRs. Therefore, I've decided to take a break from my Garmin.

I depend on it too much. I let it control my workouts. I let it control how I feel about my run. I let it control me. I watched a recent interview with Ryan Hall where he said he's been training for the Olympic Marathon without a Garmin. He's been going by feel and pushing his body without worrying about how fast a particular split was. Coach Britt also did a post recently talking about the unreliability of Garmins and such. I've had some success running without my Garmin in the past, so I know it can be done.

I love my Garmin, don't get me wrong. We have a long history together with lots of great long runs, new distances, and PRs. However, I think it is time for us to spend some time apart. I love running and I want to get out there and remember why I love it. I also know that my Garmin will be there for me when I want/need it again.

And because it is Friday, here are a few GIFs to help visualize how I've felt this summer, and hopefully make you smile.

How I feel while running with my Garmin:

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While I feel while running without my Garmin:

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P.S. Have you checked out my interview with Dr. Andy Baldwin yet?