Countdown to Race Day

I am down to 5 days until my 10 miler. I haven't run a 10 mile race since 2006. I am hoping for a time improvement. However, I don't know what to do with myself this week. Do I taper??? Do I keep pushing through as though I have a 13 mile run coming this weekend. After I back off to 10 for the week, do I have to go back to 11 and then 12 before I do 13??? I am so bad at this! How do people learn to do it? I just don't get it.

Anyway, I did a 12 mile Valentines Day long run. It was WONDERFUL. I found myself very grateful to be able to run one of the most beautiful runs in the world, even if it is one of the most challenging. I made some new canine friends (I always do. Thank goodness I am a dog person. I really don't know how people who are scared of dogs manage to run). And somehow, I accidentally got in sync with my iPod. I know that may sound slightly crazy, but it brought a smile to my face when I really needed it. I was running down a mile long hill into a gorge and looking at the river below me and the mountains in the distance and (cheesy though it may be) Born to Run came on. So I was laughing about that when I had to start up out of the gorge, which is UGLY and extremely steep. Imagine my surprise when I heard the opening strains of the Rocky Theme Song!!! Again, cheesy, but when you are headed up the worst hill in the history of hills (I swear, Heartnreak Hill in Boston couldn't possibly have anything on this one) hearing "Gettin' strong now... won't be long now" are some of the best words you will ever hear. Finally on the last big hill of the day, on came KC and the Sunshine Band with "Keep It Comin'". Again, when you are struggling "don't stop it now, don't stop it, no" can help more than you'd think.

My ankle stayed strong despite the little injury. I did, however, gain a new blister. But it was Valentines Day and my husband got me a gift certificate for a full body massage, facial and PEDICURE. They will have their work cut out for them. I think I may wait until after my half marathon and reward myself with it. SO, in addition to the wonderful scenery, synced up iPod and generally good run, I also have the most wonderful, thoughtful husband in the world. I truly am a fortunate girl.