One Month to Go

Oh. My. Goodness. Do you know what today is? It’s October 22nd! [Insert shout-outs here: Happy anniversary, Barb & Kevin! Happy birthday, Noah! Happy un-birthdays to the rest of you!] Do you know what happens exactly one month from today? That’s right: Ironman Arizona.

I measure time now in reference to race day. Thanksgiving feels eons away, even though it’s just a few short days after Ironman. Halloween? I’m pretty sure I missed it. In fact, if you asked me what month it was, I’d most likely answer November.

So does this attitude toward time mean I’m ‘in the zone’? Or does it mean all the Gu and Gatorade Endurance have truly, finally, successfully addled my brain?

I’m not sure, but lately, I do find myself consumed with thoughts of November 22. And my behavior shows it.

When I’m running on the sidewalks these days, I don’t allow myself to step on anything but the cement pavement. I specifically run to the edges of sidewalks to avoid those metal doors.

I wash my tri shorts a certain way. I hang my tri shorts up to dry a certain way.

After I’m done swimming, I place my goggles back in my gym bag a certain way.

Every time I get off my bike, I unclip from my pedals a certain way.

Hmm. And now I officially sound neurotic.

If this is what’s happening a month out from race day, then I can only imagine what superstitions will take hold of me a few weeks from now...

Bring on Ironman.