Today I’m walking down stairs one at a time, nursing my sore quad muscles. Yesterday morning Jason and I ran the Columbia Gorge Half Marathon in beautiful Hood River after spending the weekend relaxing at Bonneville Hot Springs.
Five years ago this was the last long race I did before kids. As I crossed the starting line and the rain began pouring down a determination washed over me that I could match my previous time. Despite the fact I was five years younger. And better trained. I convinced myself it’s 90% mental. Winding my way up to the old scenic highway, I gained speed taking in the breathtaking vistas and experienced the ultimate runner’s high under the canopy of colorful fall foliage. Then I rounded the turnaround and began climbing the gradual hill that seemed to never end. And I bonked. I finished 15 minutes behind.
Oh well, there’s always the promise of next year. In addition to the scenic course it was worth it for the ceramic medal around my neck, the pistil beanie in the swag bag and the taco bar! at the finish.
Top left: rainbow over downtown Hood River
Top and bottom right: at the finish with our friends Jim and Carrie
I had fun running that with you 5 years ago! That's awesome that you did it again! I wish we lived closer so you could motivate me to train for something again… 🙂
Nice Amy – I'd love to join you next year! I'm sure it's a beautiful run and good for you – another 1/2 marathon under your belt. I will I was motivated to race more but I enjoy the running part. 🙂
You are awesome!!!! Happy Birthday by the way:) You have never looked better, even when you had a spiral perm back in the day!
Love ya,
Deans
You both are awesome! Great accomplishment…you make us proud-especially your father-in-law! Hope your birthday was as special as you! XOXO