Relief

So far this week has been full of anxiety episodes. I'll start thinking about the race and my heart starts beating really fast. I'll read, hear, or see something that has to do with the race and I feel this sense of complete chaos. I will be relieved to have the race done with, but sad that all the preparation and anticipation will be over. Sounds crazy, but I think athletes thrive on the thrill of the race and the satisfaction of accomplishment.
My sister and fellow triathlete arrived today from Arizona. This evening we drove to Lucky Peak so she could get a feel for the icy water. We arrived about 5 minutes before the rain clouds came rolling over us. The IRONMAN crew was already there setting up T1 and had closed off the area where we would normally go for a swim. It was so exciting and real to see all the equipment being set up (more anxiety). We drove a little past the regular entrance and parked. We walked down a trail to another water entrance.my two older boys came along for the ride. My sister and I stood at the water for a few minutes. My sister visualizing the swim and me hoping for much needed confidence. We walked back to get our wetsuits on and my oldest son came running over and issued the challenge..."are you going to get in, or are you wimps?"
We accepted and put our suits on! I was determined for a positive experience, so I took my time getting acclimated to the water. We both got in to about mid stomach and cupped water in our and hands and put our faces in it. We continued this for a few minutes. My sister started to do some breaststroke, but I stayed there and just put my face in the water. I did this for a while, just controlling my heart rate and breathing. Then I started floating on my belly, still letting my face and neck just get used to the cold conditions. After doing this few a while, I finally started freestyle. I started very slow and gradually picked up my pace. I didn't have the same panicked feelings as my previous swims. All I felt was relief.
My sister was doing really well herself. She had swam in a cold lake in New York a week ago, so she was a little prepared for the a Boise cold. We probable stayed in for about 20 minutes or so. While in the water my boys were having fun watching and playing around. The crazy kids even got in the water and said, "it's not that cold". They amaze me :)
Getting out of the water was not so fun, the winds had picked up and the rain was starting to fall. We were both shaking and ready to be in the car to warm up.
Today was great, and I'm extremely happy it was. Looking forward to the next few days. I've worked hard and I'm ready to see what I can really do!

Chris :)