Change of Plans

So – I’ve pulled out the spontaneous card – and am terrified. I went online this morning to sign up for the marathon – in two weeks, realizing I hadn’t actually registered (ironic, considering my excitement!). Ryan went on simultaneously (although on his Mac, simultaneous means light years ahead of me – seriously, it’s my turn for a new computer)… As he was searching, he saw the Lake Lowell marathon. This is a new race – in its inaugural year. And it includes most of my training routes – including the ones I did in my 20 miler… And the hills are at the beginning. So, I signed up. Thinking that nothing would really happen in the next 2 weeks that would make waiting an additional week better… I am as ready as I am going to be. And then a sense of panic – I changed my plans! And flexibility is not one of my core strengths… But by running this race – I can still make it to Dexter’s soccer game, and the family can cheer me on at almost every mile. Since I’ll be running completely alone – their presence will be a huge help!

So here are my top 10 worries….

10. 26.2 miles – enough said
9. the hills – subtle, but very present
8. the highway
7. A week early…
6. A little under the weather right now – hoping I feel better
5. Weather
4. What to wear? Always on the list
3. The solitude
2. A very, very, very small race – which pretty much guarantees I’ll be bringing up the rear
1. 26. 2 miles…
So I’m working on my mental game this week – prepping myself. I tried the Galloway method on my trail run this weekend, and really liked it – my pace was faster, even with the fever, and I wasn’t as discouraged at any point of the run – that could have been the view – but I think it was knowing that I could run for 6 minutes and then walk – not having to wait a full 2 miles. Overall my walking was the same, but my pace was faster. Think I’ll apply the method again. And just enjoy the process – without setting a new goal for myself while I complete the first. Just want to bask in the completion. Assuming that I finish.