Since the end of 2009, I have been training for a race. In case you are mathematically challenged like me, that is 5 years. Five years of nearly non-stop training – gearing up for one race, recovering from another. I have taken lots of breaks – several weeks off here and there – but there has always been something on the horizon. Until now.

For the first time in a long time, I don’t know what’s next. There are no more races on my schedule. Not for this year. Not for next year. Since the Chicago Marathon last month, I have been doing what I want and having fun. I’ve been going to barre class, lifting weights with Mr. rUnladylike, hiking, trying new yoga classes and running with some of the girls I coach at paces that are much slower than I am used to. On Monday, I ran 8 miles at a pretty good clip, and on Wednesday I went for a run and spontaneously ran some fast fartleks during one of my miles.

It is chaos. Beautiful, simple perfect exercise chaos. I could get used to this.

And yet, I feel antsy. A bit unsettled. I’m someone who likes to have the next goal mapped out and something to give my training and running purpose. I want to pick a spring marathon to crush and train through the winter. But other life priorities are calling. The hope to add another unladylike member to our little family is more important than the next big race. (Nice how I just sprung that on you, huh?)

For now, I’m just going to train for fun. Enjoy different workouts. Enjoy running for the pure joy of the cold wind on my face and the gift of being able to do it. Enjoy trying new things. Spend time with friends through fitness. And think about the future and what will be next when I get back out to conquer the run. There are many years and many miles to come.

What is your next big running or fitness goal? What is your favorite way to stay active besides running?