Things, thoughts

# Taper started and I am feeling great. My Saturday moderate paced run was perfect. The weather was cool, and, since this is taper, I had a plan of letting my legs run as they pleased, with no concern for pace. I started out at MP+30, and gradually, very gradually went down to MP, and then MP-5. I only ran 12 miles, but I felt fresh, strong, and did not push the pace at all. I think this strategy might be what I need for the marathon. Let the legs decide the pace, don't force them, at least for 1/2 the race. Oh, and cool temps would help, too. I already feel the benefit of the decreased mileage! And, surprise, surprise, I am dying for a 20 miler (call me nuts!)

# I had my first massage on Friday - Julia will be proud. I've had this gift certificate from a 5K for several months now, at a place 5 min from my house, and I finally went for it. I kept procrastinating because, well, I am NOT a touchy-feely person (probably rebelling against my latin upbringing with everyone kissing on both cheeks and hugging at every encounter) and the thought of some strange hands rubbing my body did not seem appealing. But, my tired legs took priority and I made it there. I asked for a sports massage, but apparently there was an issue with the scheduling and I was given a "regular" massage. It was OK, the woman worked hard on my legs and she kept saying that I have lots of knots in my legs. She also asked me how many miles are in the marathon that I am going to run in 2 weeks. Yup. Next Friday I am using my last gift certificate, this time at a sports massage clinic in Medford. I have a feeling that will be...different.

# We spent another amazing weekend in New Castle, NH, dogsitting for my mom in law. This time we brought friends and got a HS girl to sit (Petru loved her) and went out into Portsmouth at a blues bar. It was amazing. Chris forced me to dance (he has no shame after a few beers). We drove home singing in the car, a bit late for the sitter, but happy to find Petru asleep. We stayed up too late, playing games and talking. Oh, I needed this.

# I am working on a taper routine. What is it, you ask? This week, my routine involves icing/soaking in hot water and rolling every single day (I'll let you know how that goes), getting 8 hours of sleep daily and catching up on work. Honestly, I am not sure whether these strategies help at all, but they do give me some control, so they help mentally. I am also reading a great book on mental training for triathletes.

# My running form has changed. I am finally able to lean from the ankles. It is amazing to observe the change in pace when I play around with my form. Oh, and I did not consciously work on changing my form, it just happened.

# I am an i-pod killer! It is official. I should not be allowed to have an i-pod.

# I decided to take a 2 week rest after my marathon. I will not run for 2 weeks, and will allow myself to just spin on a bike, or swim easily, or walk for max 45 min/day. Yes, I am saying it here, so you all can hold me accountable. Honestly, my mind does not need this, but my body does. November 1st, I should be back in business and thinking about my 2011 season.

# I mentioned before that I will not be running Boston in 2011. I know, I know, some of you won't get this. But, Boston is expensive, and I much rather use the money for a tri. Also, I've experienced Boston twice so far. I've done it, it's lost its appeal. But, I should be able to pace you for part of it, just ask!

# Speaking of Mooseman, guess who is registered! I am SO excited!!!