What it Takes

Been pondering the "training" question lately as I had signed up for a 50 miler which has since cancelled due to course problems. There are tons of places to find information, and tons of different opinions about what to run, how fast, how far, and how much rest is required. One could get VERY lost in the information overload. I hope I am right in that sticking with what works is the best way to try something new. In my limited experience, the journey is the most important part of life, and in this journey, keeping it fun is the most critical to not getting injured, not burning out, and maintaining excitement up to and for race day. I came to the conclusion that while I may add a few more miles and extra strength training, it is going to stay fun no matter what! We do this for enjoyment, and it could easily become a second job, or a "have to". No thanks, it's very much a "WANT TO"!

Holiday Weeks

What a great two weeks of running, Crossfit, and family. Today went on a fantastic 3 hour run with Alvin, Joe and one of the best trail running women in Washington, Monica Ochs. What an honor to have such fantastic running company to enjoy this wonderful sport. I feel very fortunate.

2008

What can I say that expresses the sheer joy of how 2008 took shape. Better than I could've planned or dreamed of is the only logical comment. In a nutshell: (not in any kind of order by the way) I have found a niche in running I hope to cultivate as time goes on into a lifelong passion, maybe go farther, maybe faster, maybe more, maybe less, maybe just as it is right now as there is no question that I truly enjoy it.

I have met the man of my dreams. I have learned to see the world around me and take it in instead of just passing through. I have grown VERY close to my wonderful parents as friends and a daughter. I have great people to work with who value what we have all built in a company. I have great health, both mentally and physically today. I am able to enjoy the fruits of my labor in past years when my life's meaning was work. It has enabled me to live life easier today. I have developed some great friendships this year that I know will last a lifetime. I have learned about Faith in its most basic form.

Most of all, I have learned that to be, just be sometimes is to live. What a privilege!

To 2009!

Snow!

This week has been entertaining at best running in the most snow we've seen here in Northwest Washington in many years! Joe and I ran a marathon in 3-5 inches Saturday in Renton. What a kick! More later.

Life

It is funny how life takes shape. The benefits of a simple life are coming into play every day.
The value of friendship: I am lucky enough to share with the Northwest Goddess of the Marathon and a kindrid spirit.

Birch Bay Ghost

Yesterday's Birch Bay Ghost just reminded me of why I love this sport. The day before, my good friend Rob and I talked about the run and chose to ride together. We met for coffee and were off to the event. When we arrived, T.C., Shawn, Van, and Sarah were arriving too and we all chose to start early. We gathered at Scott's van and off we went, taking a breif look at the clock on the way out (not important to us it seemed and I loved that). As the morning took shape, the sun came out and we had a magnificant view of the mountains before us to the north. T.C. and I ran along discussing life's challenges, running, and anything else that came to mind. Enjoyed it very much. Scott's aid stations are like ultra stations with goodies and self serve H20 and Coke (my favorite in a long run). We arrived at the cars and the wind and cold began to get us right away! Rob came in shortly after, and he Terry and I went to get the reward for a long race, COFFEE! Rob and I headed out after that, and had a great ride home chatting about the run we were just able to do. I feel privilidged to be able to be a part of this sport, and can't wait for the next one!

Day 2 of my first double marathon. This picture was taken at the Ghost of Seattle Marathon on Saturday. This is about mile 23 or so. I never thought a double would work out like this. It wasn't that hard. Spoke with my friend Rob, and he said the same thing. Just goes to show that no miles are "junk" miles. Could've done a triple afterall!

Had a blast on day 1 with Joe just cruising along talking and enjoying the trails in Gig Harbor at the Wishbone "ultra". 27.5 miles I guess.

Next up is the Birch Bay Ghost if I am able to do it after flying back from Orlando, Florida the night before. We will see. If not, Pigtails is the next weekend.

Had an absolute blast watching the rock star Annie Theissen win the Seattle Marathon, and wouldn't have traded the chance to congratulate her at the end for anything!