I don't have an official coach; our LBS owner was a CAT1 for many years, his son races for team Yahoo!, and he knows how to train. He's also my age. So after my last
PR-setting TT he advised I ride just for fun and not worry about staying in shape (I'm currently running 3-4 days/week training for the Big Sur 1/2 marathon in Nov.). I took his words to heart, and although my group rides might involve some speed challenges, I'm hanging on because I know I can, not because I have to as prescribed in training. I'm not worried about losing fitness, either, for the 1st time in 5 years. I have a trainer, so motivational videos, a couple TDF stages, and a rockin' mix on my iPod to keep me happy and light on the pedals.
For the first time since I got into racing I'm looking forward to recovery and time off. This is also part of a well-rounded training program. Relax and enjoy. Before you know it you'll be back to accumulating base miles.