Anyways….
Dominican Republic
The DR was beautiful – by far the bluest water I have ever seen. We stayed at an all-inclusive resort to attend a good friend’s wedding. For the purpose of socializing with friends I hadn’t seen in all too long, the resort was perfect. Other than that, I am not a resort traveler. I much prefer the culture of the local inhabitants versus flying down to a beautiful foreign place only to be greeted with everything American. Also, I didn’t see much marine life around the areas we were – a bit of a bummer since I was looking forward to snorkeling with a rainbow of fishies. But it was another relaxing and fun trip with Him – it appears we travel remarkably well together. It will be interesting to see if dirt, bugs, rainstorms, tents, and close quarters for a longer period of time will be any different….
Productivity!
Was able to complete a couple of work projects ahead of schedule and
the goal is to continue to work hard and do a damn good job up until July 5th. Purchased the cargo box and had it mounted on
the rack that Him had already had installed.
Took measurements of the back and scoped out storage options to
integrate in the build-up of the “just-in-case living quarters” – most of the
time it will be tent-living under the stars.
The dehydrating of food has gone really well – too well since we seem to
be eating it as fast as we dehydrate it.
The idea of a stockpile of dehydrated meals and snacks hasn’t overcome
the taste of instant gratification.
Started packing clothes and possessions and was reminded how little of
each I have – other than my skis, it looks as if I could fit all my belongings
in 2 suitcases and one large duffel bag (other than the bike & gear at my
parent’s house!). It incites this
feeling of unbinding opportunity and adventure, both personally and
professionally.
Mom/Dad Visit
Mom and dad came up for their second visit to Alaska – this time a bit
shorter trip. It was highlighted by
dad’s 123lb and 54lb halibut catches on a charter in Seward, AK. It was their second time going with
CrackerJack Charters and once again, it resulted in good fun and big fish. On their first trip to AK, they did the
tourist excursions – this trip was more laid-back and just a fun five days with
them. Mooses Tooth beer and pizza, Color
Run, Seward, Sourdough B&B, Halibut fishing, Salmon fishing, Ship Creek,
and entertaining themselves!Other Stuff
Other than traveling around, visitors, packing and preparing for the
trip – my big news for the month is signing up for an ultra in Montana during
August. The Him is going to volunteer
and cheer - which I am stoked about – seeing him on the course will be a
godsend when the legs and mind are tired.
The distance is mind-boggling for me – since I have little experience in
longer distance racing. I had no desire
to run road marathons now or in the past.
My first marathon was also my first Ironman. But I have an insane burning desire to
complete an ultra. I love the thought of
being out on the trails, in the wild, running (and walking) free – knowing that
finishing has little to do with physical strength, and much to do with mental
strength – a sheer test of willpower and drive. Two things that you can’t train for, you
can’t teach, that don’t give a damn about excuses, and can’t be blamed on
others – they will put one foot in front of the other at mile 45 out of 50. I like to think of it as having guts –
something that I admire in people that have it and aspire to reaching sooner
rather than later in my life. Consider this a challenge - do something that scares the shit out of you at least once a year - find your guts!
Next post - More stuff in June – More trip updates (routes, timelines),
Iowa wedding, Anne’s visit (Mother of the Him), final packing, saying sayonara to the Vegetarian lifestyle……
