I had a long run scheduled for this weekend, but with my first soccer game of the season tomorrow and just finishing out my first week of additional cross training workouts, I opted to cut it short. I pinged every two-leged friend I have, but no one seemed to be interested in cranking out a few miles today, so I updated my playlist on my Blackberry, added some running podcasts as well and headed out the door. I ran just over 9.5 miles while listening to the UK and US Top 40. I usually do not listen to music anymore when running outdoors, but I knew I'd struggle a bit today to stay motivated so I used that little extra to keep me going. I got to make sure my playlist has a much higher BPM average next time and maybe I'll finish the run faster;-) I kept it at a steady and easy pace, still feeling like I am recovering from my last race. The weather was fantastic, with temps in the low 60s and a stiff breeze blowing in my first on certain sections of my trusty old UAH loop. Rest day (soccer) tomorrow.