This is exactly why I don't really care to ever go beyond Oly distance. I have too many other things in my life that I enjoy and I really don't want to give them up to train. I DO go for long hikes (and weekend trips) and long bike rides (and weekend trips!) with my husband. I consider it part of my training! I also enjoy spending a day in the garden or tending to our goats and I don't want to feel like I have to choose either/or. I want both!

To have both, that means I will stick to short course. Of course, I'm really new to this, so I might be kidding myself, but so far, so good. Basically, I agree with the others, enjoy the training, sign up for shorter races if you need the incentive and make sure to enjoy the rest of your life too.

V - I'm sorry to hear about your SIL - I hope she is ok.