On the walk home yesterday (post-race and 9 mile cool down), I had a rare thought enter my mind. Despite knowing that Monday’s are NOT rest days, I told myself, “There is no way I’m running tomorrow.” I was drained physically and psychologically (due in no small part from tripping over a friggin’ pylon). I told my wife the exact same thing when she asked what my plans were for Monday morning. I deserved a day off.
I read many great running blogs, but if memory serves I think it was Marathon Maiden who recently blogged about the challenges of eating after long and/or intense running. The body needs it, but the mind is not always in harmony. I’m pretty good about immediately grabbing a Gatorade or similar drink, but it’s difficult for me to settle down long enough to force food down my throat. Note, I was starving during and after the race and run, but the adrenaline was still flowing which did not help the cause. After being repeatedly told by my dependents that I desperately needed a shower, I did so and then managed to sit down and eat some excellent pasta and meatballs. The balance of the day was spent yelling at Time Warner Cable, blogging, congratulating fellow runners, etc. No nap. Lastly, I watched 2/3’s of the Oscars … despite funny stand up by the hosts, it dragged on and I couldn’t finish it out … and Helen Mirren was robbed, again.
On to today’s rest day. Call it a short-term runner’s low. As I laid out my running gear before I went to bed last night, my wife just shook her head. I popped up at 6:00 am this morning with very slight stiffness. I didn’t know what to expect. For HMs, I am usually incredibly sore for a couple of days. Yesterday was of comparable distance with more intensity but over a longer period of time. Also, since it was my first time racing in flats (I only wear them indoors), I thought my feet could have issues. Happy to report that all is good. The Asics Piranhas were stellar and will definitely be used for 10ks and HMs too. I failed to mention that I am certain the flats contributed to my faster time. The Asics are 4.2 oz vs. my trainers (Brooks Launch) which are closer to 10 oz with the inserts. At least one thing went well yesterday. 
I need to find lighter trainers, after working though the Brooks. as I am noticing the extra weight during daily runs.
With Spring finally crawling out from under the sheets of ice, I was gleeful as I hit the bridle path. Dirt never felt so good. It’s been at least 5-6 weeks since the last time I ran my favorite route. I did a series of loops on the bridle and reservoir paths for 7.2 miles (8:57 pace). It was great to shake out the little acid and stress that remained in the legs. The principal reason why I ran less than 24 hours after putting down 12 hard miles was it was time to get back to work. Race is over. Need to move on and buckle up for the next one.