Something just isn't quite right

I can't put my finger on it, but something isn't right with me lately. I feel like I have no endurance, at all. I'm running slowly, feeling fatigued, HR seemingly way to high all the time, and the past 2 days, I've had some soreness in my lower abs. In fact, I'm currently of the mindset that I will not be ready to run the Indy marathon in 12 weeks. I'll be really pissed off if I'm not, but at the same time, I'm determined to not do anything stupid just to prove that I can actually finish a marathon. I do plenty of stupid stuff as it is.

Now, perhaps it's the heat & humidity of August that's preventing me from being motivated. Especially lately. It would do me a ton of good to wake up and get my runs in early when there's at least a chance of lower temps. Thankfully, the next few days will be much a bit nicer (i.e. cooler). So we'll see. I really want to get back into that wonderful grind of training, when you know you are getting better, fitter, stronger, as every week goes by. Right now, I feel like I am regressing, not progressing. If I don't start feeling better very soon, I'm considering "breaking down" and starting from scratch. By scratch I mean starting at around 20 miles for the week, and building slowly from there. More than likely run two halves in the fall, instead of a full. I'd prefer to NOT start over, but at the same time, I could see it doing me some good. I'd regain some confidence, I'd get plenty of rest, in case I am injured (I don't really think I am), and I'd get the chance to develop a new routine, good habits, etc. I'd like to do all those things while training for a full marathon, but I'm starting to get my mind around accepting a smaller workload, and training for halves, if I have to. I'll have to decide soon.

Want to get back in the gym and strength train again. I liked Pfitz's program in his book, Advanced Marathoning. I plan to follow it.

Been watching the IAAF World Championships this week too. Hoping to find a little inspiration. They're starting to get into the longer distances now, so I'm very excited for the next few days. Wish they had shown the 5,000 meter heats today, but no. I was bummed about that. Hope Lagat's gash is OK in time for the final, and that it doesn't affect him. Really enjoyed what they did show of the 10,000 meters the other day. Bekele is a monster runner. Bolt is fun to watch run, but his antics get on my nerves after a while. There's a fine line between "relaxed and having fun" and being obnoxious. Just ask Cincinnati's Chad Johnson. No, don't ask him. Ask Bengals fans. They'll tell you. Glad he's not on my favorite team, the Chicago Bears. Chicagoans wouldn't put up with that crap.

So, the next few days will be important to me. If I don't start running strong, relaxed, and more comfortably very soon, I'll have some major reevaluating to do.