Smoke from Northern California wildfires, especially the “Camp” fire, which pretty much destroyed the entire town of Paradise, has filled our part of the Sacramento Valley for several days now. The air has been deemed in the “Very Unhealthy” range, and we are advised to curtail outdoor activities as much as possible. Most Greater Sacramento schools have been closed.
Those who know me also know I usually swim laps. However, because of health advisory warnings, I haven’t swam in several days. I began using the extra time to do cleanup chores around the house in preparation for my family coming home for Thanksgiving this coming week. The whole project took on teeth, and I began shredding old papers and records that I had been hanging onto. I completely filled my garbage bin with the shreds. But, it didn’t end there. I had so much edgy energy that I decided to complete my Christmas shopping early. Yesterday afternoon, the shopping was completed for my entire family. And, with even more energy to burn, I wrapped it all. It is done!
Because of the smoke my eyes have been running almost continually, and I have an occasional cough. It had me wondering why I have all this extra energy. Then a voice inside my head called out, “Remember the taper!” Flashbacks to days when my kids were all competitive swimmers came to mind. Back then we had a little ritual when we ramped up for an important swim meet. Throughout their training, we always fed the kids well. There was especially an emphasis on healthy foods packed with nutrition. The kids who swam many hours a week with the team, would begin “the taper,” a week or several days before the meet. The taper meant swimming fewer and fewer laps each day. We also implemented a carbohydrate load. That meant prior days to the competition; a lot of spaghetti and pizza was consumed. The theory was fewer laps and more carbs would have the kids quick launching off the starting blocks, and swimming their fastest during races. It usually worked!
Remembering the little regimens of days past, reminded me where these current energy filled days are likely coming from. I have parked any concerns that I'm developing into a psychotic manic personality. What a relief it is! However, I must admit, I miss calmer days. I’m ready to give up the edge. Hopefully, the air will begin to clear this coming week. I’m anxious to get back in the pool!
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