Training plan

I completed my first speedwork session.  One of the ways I can tell I have a really great workout... is how bad I smell afterwards. HA!  You should feel really sorry for my family : )

The last time I used a training plan was when I was training for my first half marathon back in December 2006.  When I got serious about running (primarily for weight loss after the birth of my youngest son) back in June 2010, I did not follow a training plan.  My dad and I decided to run the RnR Vegas half marathon in December 2010 and I chose to continue to not follow a training plan.  Same thing in 2011... I ran 3 half marathons and several other races all without a training plan.  Reason:  I didn't feel like committing to anything and wanted to run whatever felt most comfortable on any specific day.

I finally stopped being stubborn and decided that I need to follow a training plan and need to incorporate strength training and tempo runs... two things I've been resistant to do in the past [umm... could this be the worst run-on sentence ever?].  I know I need to do all of this in order a stronger, faster runner.

I used Hal Higdon's novice half marathon plan when I was training for my first half in December 2006.  I am trying to decide if I should use Hal Higdon's intermediate or advanced half marathon training plan.  My two goals: get faster and be injury-free (I know, duh!).  I know I could *easily* complete the intermediate plan, so should I use the advanced plan instead?  But if I want to get faster, shouldn't I concentrate on pace rather than distance?  I need your help!!

**Side note: If you have a blog and I have not "joined your site" let me know so I can follow you!!