Relaxing

Relaxing this afternoon trying not to let the energy of this place sweep me along too quickly.  Currently the expo for the UTMB is right outside the hotel.  There is an announcer and techno music pouring in through the balcony door.  Outdoor gear and running companies inhabit thirty or forty small spots to sling their product at race participants.  All the while there is a huge movie screen showing dramatic 

slo-mo race footage from years past! Incredible.  I can't believe the spectacle of it all over here.  The way this culture embraces these events.  Just last night I went to an invite only "elite meet and greet BBQ" a few miles outside of town at a fancy chalet. All the top men and women contenders for the race were there being served small sausages, olives, fresh fruit, and sangria. Not exactly the treatment you will get at the Blue Mountain 30k! The whole time I felt more like a witness than a participant in it all.  I mean only in a small sport like trail running can I be in the company of someone like Killian Jornet who will likely finish this race multiple hours before me.  That's like running a 2:40 marathon and rubbing elbows with those who run sub 2:10.  What can you do but embrace the experience though? 

And now I will leave you with some random photos to peruse.  I'm off to explore...

The long list of things I will have to carry in  my backpack in a few days ( note nutella on the go packet)...

View from the Hotel Alpina Balcony. Good Morning French Alps!

Modeling my Euro made Tyvek Rain Pants.  They come up to my armpits and still only weigh two ounces!

Espresso, Double Espresso, Ristretta, or Cappuccino? Incredible coffee just a button push away.   

What else do you need??






Can anyone explain this one to me?  It's in the bathroom, although our toilet is acutally in a separate room.  Im not sure if this is where I go to the bathroom or do my dishes.....