the week of calm

Oddly enough I am starting to feel calm, which goes against everything I have been reading about the taper week.  I guess I feel like I have finally settled into all of this and am actually ready to run.  I am enjoying the taper because I feel like I finally stopped putting any pressure on myself and I am back to just getting outside and enjoying my runs.  I went out on a 4 miler yesterday and it was awesome - thinking back to it there were moments were I felt like I was flying.  It just all worked.  I felt fast and it never felt like I was putting in too much effort.  My plan is to run today and either run again tomorrow or do a spinning class and that is it. Wow it feels so good to write that.  I rest for a few days and then it's on. 

During my run yesterday I practiced visualizing finishing and seeing my family and friends.  I have learned that it really takes a huge amount of practice (and mental coaching) to remain positive and to not doubt myself.  No matter how crazy all of this training has been, it is all about me getting outside and running (enjoying being outside, pushing myself and seeing that as long as you don't give up you can get there).  Up to 438 logged miles since the last week in January.  I am really proud.  This hasn't been smooth sailing, but really what is? You start out with your ideal and then reality is what happens; you get hurt and you keep going not giving up on your goal.  When I am running I feel strong and buoyant.  Sometimes I wish that I was able to feel like that all the time, but for now I am happy to feel it at all. 

T. S. Eliot: wrote, "Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go."

Now onto the technical part of this...I have been wearing my race sneakers to work this week so that I get the lacing down (and get more comfortable wearing them).  I have been tracking the amount of water that I drink during the day (on my 8th glass of water today) and am eating clean.  Other than that my allergies are killing me.  I have my race day outfit ready to go and will pack up my gear on Thursday night. 5 days to go!!!