Tapering

I've been trying to do a little cardio each day. I haven't done more than 5 miles (on Sunday), which was my hardest run, at about 9 minute/mile. Since then, I've done elliptical and bike (Monday, 45 minutes total), and running on treadmill (13:00 min/mile, no walk breaks for 20 minutes since people were waiting). Tuesday I took a break because I had a lot of house work to do to get ready for going out of town.

I've been making sure I drink a lot of fluids (no caffeine or alcohol), and eat small meals throughout the day to build up my glycogen stores. I love this strategy since I love to eat! It's of course easier when I'm working at home.

The most important thing I've done to get ready for the race is preparation.  Materially, I've been  buying supplies such as disposable cold packs for my knees after the race, blister supplies for my feet (both prevention and treatment), Hammer Gels and Endurolyte capsules (my 22 miler successful combination), and snacks for the trip (pretzels and nutrition bars). Mentally, and probably most important, I've been trying to review the race in my mind, which is where most of the above comes into play. I've also been having positive thoughts about why I decided to run this marathon and how it will help me in the long run despite the pain.

Even though my fund-raising strategy really didn't work (lack of promotion on my part?), I am still doing it for my Mom. My race bib, instead of my name imprinted on it, will say "Run 4 Mom." I'm hoping this will encourage fans to cheer for me in that way, which will help motivate me along the course. The bands will also help, which is why I chose the Rock N Roll marathon series. One final preparation piece I am going to do on the plane is make my list of people to dedicate each mile to. I thought this would easy, as folks are donating, but instead I have to decide who makes the list. If you have ever commented on this blog and shown me support, congratulations, you make the list!

I'm ready now, as ready as I'll ever be. At least that's what I keep telling myself! Time waits for no one. You have to seize the opportunity to live your life, to let people know how you feel, because they may not be here tomorrow.