Training for the Richmond Half Marathon: Learning when to rest

August 10, 2026August 10, 2026 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

Training for a half marathon has a way of teaching you things that have very little to do with running.

This week, my lesson has been about rest—and I haven’t particularly enjoyed it.

As I continue training for the Richmond Half Marathon, an old injury started acting up again. I tried to pay attention to what my body was telling me, and eventually I went to see my family doctor. After evaluating what was going on, she recommended that I take some time away from training to allow my body to rest. She also recommended medication to help manage the pain and muscle discomfort I’ve been experiencing.

So, for now, the running shoes are taking a break.

And apparently, I am supposed to be okay with that.

When Rest Doesn’t Feel Productive

I am not very good at taking breaks from a training schedule.

There’s something satisfying about looking at a plan and completing each workout as scheduled. Run. Check. Strength training. Check. Long run. Check.

Resting because my body needs it feels different.

There’s no mileage to record. No pace to analyze. No little accomplishment waiting for me at the end of the workout.

And I’ve been restless.

Part of me wants to get back out there because I have a race I’m preparing for and goals I want to accomplish. But I’m also trying to change the way I think about productivity.

Sometimes doing more isn’t the productive choice.

Sometimes the productive choice is stopping.

Listening to My Body—and My Doctor

One of the things I’m learning through this training cycle is that there is a difference between discomfort that comes with challenging myself and pain that deserves my attention.

This time, my body was asking me to listen.

And my doctor was asking me to do the same thing.

So I am.

The time away from running has actually been helping. The pain and discomfort have had an opportunity to settle, which is a pretty good reminder that perhaps my body knew what it was talking about.

That doesn’t mean I’ve suddenly become good at sitting still.

I haven’t.

Finding Other Ways to Move

Since running isn’t currently on the schedule, I’ve been finding gentler ways to occupy myself while I wait for my doctor’s recommended rest period to end.

I’ve been stretching.

I’ve been working on small projects in the garden.

I’ve been moving when it feels appropriate without turning every bit of movement into a workout.

And maybe that’s part of the lesson too.

My garden doesn’t grow faster because I stand over it demanding that it hurry up.

Some things need time.

Apparently, runners do too.

Rest Is Still Part of the Training

I’m trying to remind myself that taking some time off doesn’t erase the work I’ve already done.

A few missed runs don’t suddenly mean that I’m no longer training for the Richmond Half Marathon.

Right now, rest is the training.

The goal isn’t simply to make it through every workout on my training calendar. The goal is to arrive at the starting line healthy enough to run—and hopefully enjoy—the race I’ve been preparing for.

If slowing down for a little while gives me a better chance of doing that, then slowing down isn’t failure.

It’s strategy.

And perhaps it’s growth.

There was a time when I probably would have been much more tempted to push through the pain because stopping felt like weakness. I’m learning to see things differently now.

Caring for my body isn’t something I do instead of pursuing my goals.

It’s part of how I pursue them.

Waiting for the Next Run

I’m still restless.

I’m still thinking about running.

And yes, I’m already looking forward to putting my shoes back on.

But for now, I’m stretching, tending to my garden, following my doctor’s recommendations, and giving my body the time it’s asking for.

The Richmond Half Marathon is still ahead of me.

My training hasn’t ended.

It has simply entered a quieter phase.

And maybe this week isn’t about learning how far I can run.

Maybe it’s about learning when not to.

— Lulu

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Haven Harvest Living is about building a life rooted in purpose—through food, gardening, movement, books, and reflection.

Follow along as I continue my journey toward the Richmond Half Marathon and learn what it means to move, rest, and grow with intention.

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Health & Fitness

🏃‍♀️ What I Learned Training for My First Half Marathon

September 8, 2025 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

When a former classmate convinced me to sign up for my first half marathon, I didn’t exactly think it through. I only had about a month to prepare. I was cocky back then. I figured, “I’ll be fine.” Spoiler alert: I wasn’t. At least, not in the way I thought.

🏅 Race Day: The Wake-Up Call

Race day came, and I barely slept the night before. Still, I laced up my shoes and got my family out the door so they could cheer me on. My first half marathon was the Marine Corps Historic Half, and the energy at the start line was electric.

The first few miles felt amazing—I actually believed I could finish in around 2 hours and 30 minutes. But then came the hills. Big ones. Hills I hadn’t prepared for.

“Hospital Hill felt like Mount Everest after mile 10. I almost cried, but I kept moving.”

For those who have run the Historic Half, you already know that Hospital Hill is a monster. Trying to tackle it after 10 miles nearly broke me. I walked several times during that race—something I never planned on doing. By the end, I had lost a toenail. I could barely walk for days. I realized just how much I had underestimated what I signed up for.

And yet—I finished. And that finish line changed me.

💡 Lesson 1: Consistency Beats Confidence

My biggest mistake? Thinking confidence could replace training. I skipped workouts, ignored mileage, and assumed “being young and fit enough” would carry me through. Hospital Hill proved otherwise. Consistency, not bravado, is what builds endurance.

💤 Lesson 2: Rest Is Part of the Process

In my rush to train, I thought running hard every day would make me stronger. Instead, my legs were screaming by race week. Hospital Hill showed me that recovery is fuel. Rest isn’t laziness—it’s training.

🥗 Lesson 3: Nutrition Matters

By mile 9, I had nothing left in the tank. I hadn’t fueled properly, and it showed. That race taught me that food isn’t just fuel—it’s survival. Oatmeal, bananas, and water became my essentials for future runs.

🧠 Lesson 4: The Mental Game Is Everything

When my body wanted to quit, my mind had to take over.

“At mile 10, my legs were done. My mind had to run the race for me.”

Repeating mantras like “one step at a time” helped me push up Hospital Hill. Running is as much mental as it is physical. Another mantra that kept me going was, “pain is weakness leaving the body”. Something I picked up from my Drill Sergeants back in the day. The body can do almost anything your mind wills it to.

👟 Lesson 5: Gear Can Save You

Blisters, sore feet, and losing a toenail taught me the hard way that the right shoes and socks matter. Gear can’t do the running for you, but it can make the journey bearable. Back then I wasn’t wise enough to know that your shoe size for running matters. I was naive about running shoes. I didn’t know that long-distance runners need to get their shoes 1/2 size larger than their regular everyday shoes. I learned that lesson the hard way and I had to learn it again…apparently I didn’t learn it well enough the first time.

🎉 Lesson 6: Celebrate the Finish—Even If It’s Messy

By the time I crossed the finish line, I wasn’t running—I was surviving. But I finished. That medal means more to me than any “perfect” run ever could. One of my favorite memories from that race is the picture I took with my family at the finish line. I also remember thinking that I wanted to run that race again immediately after I crossed the finish line. I can’t explain it but most long distance runners will tell you that.

✨ Final Thoughts

My first half marathon humbled me, but it also transformed me. I went in overconfident. I was under-prepared. I came out with a new respect for the distance, for training, and for myself.

If you’re thinking about running your first half marathon, here’s my advice:

Train smart.
Give yourself time.
Respect the distance.

And if your race doesn’t go perfectly? Celebrate anyway. Every finish line is a victory.

💬 Your Turn: Have you ever jumped into a challenge unprepared? Drop your story in the comments—I’d love to cheer you on!

Summer Running Goals: How It’s Going So Far

August 25, 2025 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

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We all know that summer running is not easy. Personally, I prefer running when the weather is cooler. This summer has been especially hot and humid, but that hasn’t stopped me from lacing up and getting out there.

For the month of June, I ran 41.9 miles — a major change from previous years and something I’m proud of. Encouraged by that progress, I challenged myself to run 125 miles in July. But as the heat and humidity set in, I quickly realized that was too lofty of a goal. I changed my plan. My new goal was 100 miles in July. It was a more realistic target that still pushed me forward.

For August, my focus has been on balance. I dedicate three days a week to strength training at the gym. I also allocate three days to running. My weekly mileage goal is 20 miles, and for the most part, that plan has been going well. Along the way, I’ve dealt with some hip pain, which meant taking a few days to rest and recharge. Even with setbacks, I’m still chugging along with my summer running plans.

What this season has taught me is that goals don’t have to be perfect to be powerful. Adjusting doesn’t mean failing. It means listening to your body. It means honoring your limits. It also means celebrating your wins along the way.

My Running Essentials

Over the summer, a few items have become non-negotiables in my running routine. They aren’t just gear. They’re the little things that help me stay consistent, comfortable, and motivated. This is true even when the air is thick with humidity.

Fly Buds Wireless Earbuds – Light, reliable, and sweat-ready. These earbuds turn every run into its own personal playlist or podcast escape.
Brooks Ghost 16 Running Shoes – My daily trainers this season. They are cushioned and breathable. These shoes are supportive enough to carry me 40+ miles in a month. They handle humid runs with ease.
Fitness Tracker / Smartwatch – Tracking my pace, mileage, and milestones keeps me accountable—even on days when motivation feels low.
Hydration Gear – Staying hydrated is essential. This gear is a lifesaver during summer runs when the heat kicks up.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Running in the summer heat hasn’t been easy, but it’s been full of lessons and small victories. Now I’d love to hear from you:

👉 Have you set any summer fitness goals? How’s it going so far? Share your wins, struggles, or tips in the comments—I’d love to cheer you on.

And if you’re thinking about starting or growing your own running journey, check out the gear I’ve linked above. These essentials have made a real difference for me. They include my Fly Buds earbuds and Brooks Ghost 16 shoes. They might help you too.

Looking Ahead

I am not where I want to be yet, but every mile this summer has taught me something. My plan is to keep building consistency, stay strong through cross-training, and listen closely to what my body needs.

I am also working on adding energy gels into my running routine. On longer runs, my energy tends to dip around miles six and seven. I tried an energy gel I bought locally and it worked well. My next step is to order more from Amazon so I can keep them on hand for future runs.

Thank you for stopping by—I hope you found something helpful in this week’s post. Don’t forget to like and share 🙂

Health & Fitness · Health & Fitness

Seasons of Growth: Running, Writing, and Tending to my heart.

July 11, 2025 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

On the Run: Training and Races

Running has become more than a routine — it’s been a return to discipline, breath, and strength. Over the past few months, I’ve trained consistently and challenged myself in new ways. I’ve completed a few races so far. The first was the Shamrock 5K in March. Then there the Race Towards Autism Acceptance 5K in April, Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon in May. The Father’s Legacy Inaugural 5K was held first. The most recent race was the Fallen Heroes 5 Miler on July 4th, 2025. Each race brought its own lessons — in perseverance, in honoring the moment, and in trusting my body’s quiet power.

Some mornings were hard. Some finishes were emotional. But every step has been worth it.

Right now, I’m deep in training for something big — my very first full marathon! I’ll be running the Richmond Marathon this October. I couldn’t be more excited. I am also a little nervous for the journey ahead. It’s a milestone I’ve dreamed about for years, and I’m ready to meet it head-on.

On the Page: Stories Taking Root

Writing has been both refuge and revelation. I recently completed my debut novel, Songs of the Eleven Suns. It is the first book in a trilogy that explores the delicate balance between land and sea. It delves into memory and myth, as well as love and legacy. It’s a story rooted in ancestry and longing — and one that’s been with me for a long time.

Working on this book stretched me in every way. I poured so much of myself into its pages. It was not just the craft of writing, but the emotional truth beneath the story. Seeing it finished felt like watching a dream step into the light.

Alongside that, I’ve been working on a deeply personal poetry chapbook titled Dark, Still Rising. It’s a collection centered on themes of defiance, self-love, childhood, ancestry, and healing. It is written as a lyrical tribute to dark brown skin, identity, and survival. These poems have helped me rediscover voice, power, and presence in the quietest corners of myself.

Now, I’m continuing the journey with Book Two of the trilogy. I am expanding the world, deepening the characters, and raising the stakes. It’s thrilling to return to a place I know so well and keep discovering new depths.

There’s more to come — and I can’t wait to bring you along as these stories continue to unfold.

Below are the links for the books…if you are interested!!

Songs of the Eleven Suns https://a.co/d/iALittq

Dark, Still Rising https://a.co/d/43TsNRY

Thank you for stopping by and for the support 🙂

Health & Fitness

Born to Run? Maybe Not. But I Chose To.

May 3, 2025 Lulu LeeLeave a comment

Running never came naturally to me. I wasn’t the fastest or the strongest. From the moment I stepped onto that dusty field in Sierra Leone as a kid, I felt inspired. I knew I wanted to run. What started as a way to follow in my siblings’ footsteps became a personal journey. It has taken me across continents and through setbacks. It has led me toward a deeper understanding of who I am.

Some people are born with a natural talent for certain things. Others have to work hard to excel at whatever they choose to pursue.

I fall into the latter group. Running has always been a part of my life, but it’s something I’ve had to work at consistently. My earliest memory of running goes back to grade school in Sierra Leone.

I believe I was in second grade. Back then, we had a huge event called Field Day. It was more than just a school event. It brought together the entire town. It felt almost like a mini Olympics. Students were divided into four teams, each represented by a different color. We trained for various track and field events leading up to the big day.

This is a great race to raise funds for Veterans.

I was on the same team as my older brother and sister. I was thrilled to compete alongside them. I was clearly one of the slowest kids on the team, but that didn’t dampen my excitement.

I don’t remember which team won that year. I do remember falling in love with the feeling of pushing myself. My brother and sister were standout runners, and I wanted to be just like them.

From that point on, I became my brother’s shadow. He was my hero. I watched him train with his friends and thought, I can do that too—if I put in the work.

Over the years, running became more than a hobby—it became a passion. Not sprinting or track events, though. My love is long-distance, cross-country running. I was never fast, and I’m still not, but that’s okay. What matters most to me is endurance and connection.

Long-distance running helps me feel connected—to nature, to myself, and to my limits. It challenges me in ways nothing else has.

I moved to the United States in 1993. By 1996, I had joined my high school’s cross-country team. In college, I pushed to help form a cross-country program. Later, my love for running helped me thrive during my time in the military.

I’ve had my fair share of physical setbacks. These include injuries, a surgery to repair torn tendons and ligaments, and bursitis in my hip. I’ve also had plenty of physical therapy. None of it has taken away my love for running. I continue to work at it because running is a part of who I am. I always feel most alive during and after a run.

Are you just as obsessed with running? If so, when did you get hooked—and what keeps you going?

Thanks for stopping by!