The Taper

This past week and weekend marked the height of my training mileage. I peaked with a 58 mile week complete with a 22 mile run Saturday and a 10 mile run Sunday. As Chris and I started out on the American River Parkway on Saturday morning.....there was a joy and a sadness.

The next time I see the trail will be when I tackle my first 50K.

The joy was in knowing I've come so far from a mere 23 weeks ago when I was barely able to walk a block. I am now looking to a slow downward trend in my weekly mileage. My sadness came in saying goodbye to the trail for a few weeks. There is nothing quite so serene as the quiet of the trail in the morning. The glow of the sun as it tries to burst through the clouds and the slick glass-like look of the river. The familiar faces who are training for their events and the friendly nod we share. Then there are those moments with Chris by my side to tell me, "You're looking strong" or asking "How are you feeling", that are my absolute favorite.

We were able to retrace the actual steps I will take to leave and re-enter the school at the race. This course will not be unfamiliar but will also not be very forgiving on the return with strong uphill climbs.

Usually the taper petrifies me.

However, knowing the amount of mileage I have put on these legs in the past 10 weeks.....they are ready, willing even, for a little respite and TLC. We had massages yesterday and I will try to do so each week until the race.

Currently, I seem to be checking the Farmers Almanac in a freakish manner. Weather is always the wild card with a run. I will have various outfits, layering options, alternative plans laid out in case Mother Nature throws me a curve ball.

Until then......it's all about...

Calming.the.nerves.