I was re-reading a section of Andy Pruitt's book, The Complete Medical Guide for Cyclists, last night. In it, he talks about how cyclists underestimate the effects of the other facets of their lives on their riding. Going to work, keeping the house up, taking care of family matters....all of these things have an effect on how we feel and train and recover, and we shouldn't expect to ride as if we don't have these responsibilities. But it's easy to fall into the trap of saying, "well, it's only X miles....Chris Horner rides 10X per week!". Year, because it's his job....it's his primary responsibility!

I'll look for that passage tonight....Andy said it more eloquently than I can.

In short, be kind to yourself, body and mind.