Becoming a Party

As you know by now, Hawaii has been chosen as my last state.  This is not an accident.  After all, why wouldn't I chose an awesome destination and combine it with a vacation for this milestone?  The exciting news is that I've got some friends and family who have decided to join me and make the event even more special.  Just this weekend, one of my dear friends who I actually met as a result of this campaign pulled the trigger and booked her tickets.  So at this point the total stands at 12.  But if everyone who says they are coming actually comes, the party total will stand close to, if not over, 20!  Sounds like a party to me.  I've got some ground to cover before then with three more states before Hawaii yet I can't help but start to get a little excited as more and more of my loved ones make their travel arrangements.  Aloha!

 

The Fact of the Matter

I really can't expect to use my body in the way I have for the last five years and come out without some minor injury.  I have postponed the inevitable too long and physical therapy starts next week. Not that I am complaining; if you know me you know that's not my style. I am going to someone I (unfortunately) have been to before and he worked wonders with me last time.  I am hoping Mike and I can have similar results this round.  You see...it's my shoulder.  And it started with that ridiculous 5 am wipeout I took a couple of months ago with my running club.  Silly me, I thought it would get better on its own.  But last week's race showed me that it's time to call in the support troops and rehab this the right way.  So there you have it.  Just a matter of fact. 

Über Fit Pacific Northwest

They breed 'em pretty healthy in Oregon. It was all I could do to hang in. Hills that went on forever both on the bike and run but a gorgeous weather day and a great event. State #46, check! Unfortunately the press outreach that was planned fell through but I was able to connect with the locals. Thanks to my friend Ann for meeting me, carting me around and the non-stop laughter. Nothing like reconnecting with an old friend...a bonus to the campaign for sure. Next up, Michigan.

Third Time's A Charm

I have tried two times in the last two years to get to Oregon for a race.  Both times bad weather and delayed or cancelled flights have made it impossible.  This week and for the third time I will try again.  I have an early flight which bodes well for summer storms and a direct flight in Seattle which is more predictable.  My friend Ann (the one responsible for getting me into this sport in the first place) will meet me and drive me to Oregon.  Keep crossed fingers that I will claim Oregon as my 46th state this time next week.  The way I see it.... third time's a charm!

It's Nice To Be Asked

Early season results have been good enough to qualify for the 2013 Age Group Nationals in the Oly distance this summer.  It's pretty cool as you have to incur some podium finishes to qualify.  Unfortunately I can't attend but Ms. Manners says it is still nice to be asked, even if you can't attend the party. 
Speaking of finishes... missed first place this past weekend by.... wait for it..... SIX SECONDS.  No way I could  have made up the time (as ridiculous as that sounds).  I had nothing left in the tank; I put it all into the course... just the way are supposed to in this sport.  But really, six seconds?  It's all good.