An Off Week

The worst part of running an amazing race that makes you feel proud and accomplished is the come-down. I always try to take some time off after big races so that I don't get injured. But when I take time off running, I end up feeling moody and stressed.

This week I did three days of T25, but I couldn't help but feel like it wasn't enough. One of those days, I ran two miles, which was my first (and only) run since the Paradise Coast Half. My calves and right hamstring ached the entire time, and although I kept the pace fast - just to get it over with - and although I was happy to be out there, it wasn't a good run.

A quick two miles through the neighborhood while Matt skateboarded ahead of me.

Saturday morning Matt convinced me to go paddling. It's been forever since I got out there. The weather was beautiful, but my heart just wasn't in it. I hit a new milestone...it was the first time I fell off my board! (I guess rolling waves and tired legs don't mix, but I'll say this for a nose-full of sea water - it clears sinuses better than a Nettie Pot!)

Trying to catch more glimpses of the dolphins. We also saw a big ray!

This was the perfect opportunity to wear my new Ragnar tank!

There were dolphins all around us in the Gulf. They were awesome to see so close up, and it's been so long since I've seen them. That was really special.

We spent the evening dress shopping so that I don't have to wear the same dress to the weddings we're attending in March. (Considering the couples getting married all know each other and share friends, that would just be fashion suicide haha.)

Matt got the S'mores cheesecake, a selection which helped fund a national food bank.

We finished the evening with appetizers and dessert at the Cheesecake Factory. As I was savoring a slice of Adam's Peanut Butter Cup Fudge Ripple and a steaming cup of decaf, I ruminated on my running schedule over the next couple months.

While there's a half in March I'm considering running, I'm also happy to focus on some short distances right now. I'm hoping to follow a loose marathon training plan before real training begins in June, in order to build a really solid base. And training seriously means eating seriously.

I've never been good at planning meals ahead and watching my total daily percentages of proteins, fats, carbs, etc. I don't think I'll ever become an expert. But I'm really hoping to be a more mindful eater in order to fuel myself correctly, so that I can go into the marathon feeling confident and prepared.

And of course, a post isn't complete without Archie. I finished Age of Miracles this weekend, and it left me feeling a little despondent. Next on my list is Stir of Echoes.

His side-eye clearly says, "What? This is my perch. Get over it."

How did your week pan out?
How do you deal with post-race blues?

ABK