Thursday, June 27, 2013

HeR - It's been way too long! (6.27.13)

It has been almost one month since my last post – so I suppose I am long overdue on this.  I knew June was going to be a busy month, but didn’t expect it to be this crazy. Also, I’ve spent a lot of time sticking my fingers in my armpits and having a good whiff…SUPERSTAR!!  That, of course, was not me writing – rather the HeAss decided it would be funny to contribute to my post when I wasn’t looking.  The next think you know, he will be writing about bad gas and boogers – just can’t take Him serious at all.
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……

 

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