This taper, my third in just over a year, has probably been my most successful emotionally. I think that's a victory right there, considering I've been babying a sore left calf and ankle this week. Of course, I say that as I sit here crying, but it's the day before my race, following the most intense training I've ever completed, and I've got big goals and dreams that I've set for myself. It's only natural that the nerves and excitement are going to bubble over at some point, and better today than tomorrow morning!
Today is all about focusing and relaxing, continuing to eat well and hydrate, and keeping tomorrow in perspective. I've got some relaxing music playing, and in my head I've been going through all the work that's gotten me to where I am right now. This was, by far, one of the worst winters for training outdoors that New England has seen in a long time. Huge amounts of snow and bone-chilling temperatures lead to a number of indoor long runs on the treadmill. Balancing life, in general, resulted in many 4:30 AM runs outside, headlamp strapped to my head, four layers of clothing on to combat the cold, propping my water bottle in a snowbank for water stops. I keep thinking about that crazy 14 mile run I completed on a one-mile stretch of safe road, back and forth 14 times! There were failed runs, slower than I'd planned or stopped because of pain. However, there were more runs that were exhilarating and faster than I thought possible. This morning, Ive been thinking a lot about those great runs, how I felt and imagining feeling that same way tomorrow. I've been focusing on the fact that tomorrow's weather looks perfect, in the 50's with partial sun and a tailwind for the way back to Providence. I've imagined seeing my family along the course, knowing what a huge boost that is to see familiar faces, especially in those upper miles when it becomes more of a mental battle. I keep imagining my approach to the finish line, and as I close in, there is always the same exact number on the clock and the same feeling of accomplishment in my heart.
Imagining the ideal is a great exercise, but keeping perspective is just as important, because it is impossible to predict what will unfold tomorrow. I have to keep in mind that, good race or not, I am a healthy, dedicated runner with a fabulous coach and so much more to look forward to as I work to improve. It helps to remind myself that every run is progress and that patience is the key to continued improvement, recent wisdom gained from that fabulous coach. This race will end, and the journey will continue, and after all, it is the journey that I absolutely love.
Aside from that healthy perspective around my running, there is the reality that running is just one aspect of my life, and that I've got great things waiting beyond that finish line in Providence. My family is spectacular and the fuel behind everything I do, and I've got exciting things going on at work that are so energizing. I've got my first picture book heading toward publication, and I've got some great ideas for more books in that series.
Today, I'll grab my number at the expo, and I'm looking forward to a pep talk with my coach about my race plan. I'll spend some time reflecting on how lucky I am to even be at the starting line tomorrow and how lucky I am to have so much wonderful on the other side of the finish line.
Providence...let's roll!
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