Now What?

This week Nana and Papa took a little time to reflect on the R2R and start planning our training to be ready for the next challenge.

Picture right:  Taken from the South Kaibab trail looking down on Phantom Ranch, the oasis at the bottom of the Canyon.

First reflection.
A week ago we were just climbing out the canyon via South Kaibab.  At that point, we were tired and sore. We caught the shuttle to the South Rim Village area. In our hiking finest, which means we didn't look or smell very fresh, we devoured a hardy breakfast at the Bright Angel Lodge.  Doing our best hiker hobble, we made it to our parked car which thankfully was in the shade. It was so cool and we were so tired that we just reclined the seats and napped for awhile.

Recharged with food and a little rest, we drove to Williams, about an hour away, and again napped in the car for a brief time until our hotel room was available for early check-in. The room was adorable; the shower was heavenly. We pushed our bodies, now very tight and sore, to walk downtown Williams for an early dinner and pick up water to have in the room (we learned from last time and pushed the fluids). By 5pm we were tucked in bed.

The following day, Monday, we were sore but could mask our hiker hobble pretty well. Tuesday Nana was back to work and even managed the stairs without too much trouble. Wednesday, it was almost sad as the soreness was nearly non-existent. Now, a week later, it's all a distant memory, well, except for the scratches and bruises on Nana's left leg where she fell and a pretty big blister on her heal. Both are healing well and not at all painful.

This week we have not been very active. The monsoon season has arrived with clouds, threatening rain and increased, uncomfortable humidity levels. Our outside adventures will be minimal for the next couple months during this season. We had also decided to let our bodies rest this week as we start to change up our training for the next challenge.

The next challenge?
We are signing up for the P.F. Chang Rock and Roll Marathon. We will be doing the 1/2 marathon, not the full thing.  Crazy, yes, but not insane. The marathon is held in the Valley in January so we have a few months to prepare.

Although our intense training schedule will let up some for the next few weeks, we do have things planned. The Colorado Plateau area of the southwest is packed with scenic destinations. More next week.