Two Steps Back

Last Thursday I graduated from physical therapy because I had been running (taped) pain-free up to 5 miles.  That night I headed downtown for a 3 miler with my friend Sara. I felt a slightly different pain on the same knee during the run which felt like the tape might be a bit tight and pulling, so I didn't worry about it very much. Unfortunately, I had the dreaded knee pain that night and following day.
Naturally, on Saturday I didn't rest. My knee felt better and honestly, I was so annoyed about the injury returning that I figured I might as well get my scheduled 7 miles in and just deal with the pain to follow. The pain ended up being far worse than before and there was quite a bit more swelling despite ice and ibuprofen. Today is Wednesday, 4 days later and it still isn't right. I realize it was foolish running 7 miles on Saturday but hey, what's done is done. I saw that looming training schedule and that pressure plus frustration lead me to cave in and risk it.
Now I'm taking more time off from running while continuing my stretching and strength training in hopes that I might still be able to do Bayshore half at the end of May. If I don't come back in time I'll enjoy being a cheerleader for my friends and family running that race. Then I'll work up slowly for a late summer or early fall half.