Winding Down for the Build Up

This is a strange time. I'm physically tapering down - recuperating from the 20 miler - but psychologically ramping up for 26.2. I feel the need for my body to recuperate. I don't do every workout, but try to follow the schedule best I can.

Saturday, October 7th 12 miles was on the agenda and I mapped out a route that I've always wanted to try. It was a real fun run. From my home I made my way around three bodies of water; Chestnut Hill and Brookline Reservoirs as well as Jamaica Pond. Much was green with slight hints of red and orange, the weather perfectly cool and there were enough hills to be challenged. When passing by Bill's home I could not resist a call. Although I know he wasn't there, I left a message letting him know he could look out his balcony and there I was: panting, running and smiling.

Two days later was the Tufts 10K (6.2 miles) (http://www.tuftshealthplan.com/tufts10k/) There were over 7,000 women! (photo above). I went back and forth about how I should "do" the run. (a "should" vs. "want" thing.) All came clear when the rubber met the road... It was a good day and it was not going to waste! While still slow for some, I did my personal best with a pace of 11:56. I placed 4,550 out of over 7,000 and it took me 1 hour 14 minutes and 05 seconds (but who's counting?)

This was SO MUCH better than the Nahant 30K (approx 18.64miles) run on September 16th (http://www.northshorestriders.com/Nahant30K/) Yours truly was THE LAST person to come in! Proudly placing 203 out of 203 at 4 hours 15 minutes and 17 seconds for a pace of 13.42 minutes per mile. Ironically, I was happy with my time, but uncomfortable with the car crawling behind me with the driver asking "honey, are you okay?"! It was incredibly difficult for me as the hills were like spikes and there were way too many for my ability. But I DID cross the finish line as the photo proves below!

For a good laugh about bringing up the rear read John Binham's Penguin jokes... It's very funny! One of my favorites is: You might be a penguin if... you have to politely (for the third time) tell the men in the police car moving behind you that No you do not wish a ride. http://www.johnbingham.com/penguin.html

Can't help but wonder what my time will be for the 26.2...