tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12452497818847232232024-03-15T21:12:23.922-04:00Lakewood's Wanderings and Scribbles.“As for me, I am tormented with an everlasting itch for things remote." - MelvilleLakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.comBlogger608125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-29749143107975689322024-01-28T15:53:00.005-05:002024-01-28T15:54:29.319-05:00Slowly Coming Back to Life...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVH9Vbw6qMkTRm4bqLaAqREuEVmdfIbrR7J0qk-71vJdih7ANB985h5_MfZo0y1lJoSvHDrkgZpwA4j6b7XvEFm0c9SFmFTHS3xiA3mz9pOnEbDcIoHk7E6NPVK1KBR21Dn6mfjnHq_Xii2Iyiwy1_jOQai2jjqD2xnd4NJCUEecJu-WjmaO1RsQjMEeuO/s4032/IMG_6423.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVH9Vbw6qMkTRm4bqLaAqREuEVmdfIbrR7J0qk-71vJdih7ANB985h5_MfZo0y1lJoSvHDrkgZpwA4j6b7XvEFm0c9SFmFTHS3xiA3mz9pOnEbDcIoHk7E6NPVK1KBR21Dn6mfjnHq_Xii2Iyiwy1_jOQai2jjqD2xnd4NJCUEecJu-WjmaO1RsQjMEeuO/w300-h400/IMG_6423.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Running in Virginia at the Mountain Masochist 50</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">For the past several years, I've established somewhat of an ad hoc routine as November approaches. As the colder weather begins to set in, and the academic semester hits its apex, other components of my life necessarily ease back. This includes the running, the riding, and most of the adventuring. In many ways the early Winter months have become my "rest" time. From mid-November through the Holidays, I use the time to allow my mind to ease itself of stress, I do what I can to truly enjoy the break, and I rest my body from what has usually been months of constant abuse and miles. In many ways, I look forward to this time, and enjoy doing a whole lot of nothing. Lately though, as I've gotten older, I find that I am not as able to enjoy this time as much as I used to, mostly because I know as I rest, and my fitness diminishes, it will ultimately be a longer road to getting it back. Come New Years, I usually have a few extra pounds I need to shed as well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thankfully I've been able to keep to a rather strict rebuild routine each year. I almost treat it as something of game...and track all of my health and workout data as my strength and fitness slowly return. Each year there is a moment when I flip the switch and commit myself to two very distinct goals:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>First: I commit to starting back up with an annual run of loops in Florida on Christmas Day (while visiting family). </li><li>Second: I commit to streaking for the entire month of January...meaning I commit to run every day for at least the entire month (although it usually carries well into February</li></ul><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_dRAB-DRTllZ1Xg_kJ7h3v2IVww9S43cse9-oh5tuMfhFOac6oDx1wb2bjTIG7oOEvjyvnba5zKt3u322SAiKeUnOnKk1qgsCmoYGlqhM86GIrupZZksEhGp13jhIZAUI7vb2gq5uWg3rh2dsrv_PPlnRZffU9_w8Pud11nRB-OBnmVvI5kwWjN2eSgcD/s1592/Screenshot%202024-01-28%20at%2012.38.45%E2%80%AFPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1408" data-original-width="1592" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_dRAB-DRTllZ1Xg_kJ7h3v2IVww9S43cse9-oh5tuMfhFOac6oDx1wb2bjTIG7oOEvjyvnba5zKt3u322SAiKeUnOnKk1qgsCmoYGlqhM86GIrupZZksEhGp13jhIZAUI7vb2gq5uWg3rh2dsrv_PPlnRZffU9_w8Pud11nRB-OBnmVvI5kwWjN2eSgcD/w400-h354/Screenshot%202024-01-28%20at%2012.38.45%E2%80%AFPM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Christmas Loops</div><div><br /></div><div>One of the ways I stay on track for my second goal, is to sprinkle in several shorter "Tune-Up" races in January and early February. This way, I am somewhat forced to keep up my fitness build. If I do stick to my usual plan, I typically find myself an entirely new person by February 1st. I am generally leaner, stronger, fitter, and faster...with a well-built fitness base and more overall endurance. On Christmas Day it's a struggle to run those 6-8 miles, but by Feb 1, I am out running 20-milers every Saturday with relative ease. I simply love the process of getting fit and how just the simple act of consistency really does work. It's not about banging out occasional big days, or getting in some tempo work....it's about just getting out every day and training the body to move regularly.For whatever reason, this year has been particularly rewarding so far, and also one where I've really tapped into the data. </div><div><br /></div><div>In Early November, I went out for what is often my last big effort of the year: the Mountain Masochist 50-Miler in Virginia. This event is not only a great one to ease back my running for the year, but is always a delightful time, given that I run the entire course with several of my Barkley friends. This year was no different. I ran with my friend (and Hardrock Pacer) Travis, and we had a blast trading stories along the way. We were also accompanied by another friend Mark, and of course were able to see Barkley Legends David Horton and Ed Furtaw at the finish. We had great weather, took our time, and eeked out a sub-12 hour finish by just a few minutes.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVH9Vbw6qMkTRm4bqLaAqREuEVmdfIbrR7J0qk-71vJdih7ANB985h5_MfZo0y1lJoSvHDrkgZpwA4j6b7XvEFm0c9SFmFTHS3xiA3mz9pOnEbDcIoHk7E6NPVK1KBR21Dn6mfjnHq_Xii2Iyiwy1_jOQai2jjqD2xnd4NJCUEecJu-WjmaO1RsQjMEeuO/s4032/IMG_6423.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVH9Vbw6qMkTRm4bqLaAqREuEVmdfIbrR7J0qk-71vJdih7ANB985h5_MfZo0y1lJoSvHDrkgZpwA4j6b7XvEFm0c9SFmFTHS3xiA3mz9pOnEbDcIoHk7E6NPVK1KBR21Dn6mfjnHq_Xii2Iyiwy1_jOQai2jjqD2xnd4NJCUEecJu-WjmaO1RsQjMEeuO/w300-h400/IMG_6423.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Along the Masochist Course with Travis (photo: Mark R.)</div></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;">Normally, I'd start shutting things down after Masochist, but I decided to go back to the Fat-Ox 6 hour event just before Thanksgiving. I wasn't in great shape, and hadn't run a step since Masochist, but still managed to get through 32 miles in under 6 hours...placing me third in the event (I have no pictures from the event sadly).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Following Fat-Ox, the only notable effort I carried out was over Thanksgiving weekend when I did a fast-pack style hike up and down Mt. Baden-Powell outside of Wrightwood, California. It was a fun effort, but definitely a one-off and I could tell that I wasn't really building any real fitness by completing the hike. It was of course still fun regardless.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq_oi-rCC_z2p3Of91Hu9cqqmuRO3d9GmmCRgOat6lyEMpleIXuVTFOPf9iLiY-LHlBqMk2m7kaaWgBanK3Qlgz_Gfcre_qNUgS4umw8K1Q0pbrVnMEGyq0Gn-0-JmE0tqzp0L3yUZvrX8cFlFDNehoq6xLZFuPUaXbRfrMe2wdnq32JqjhAHs4f7CpzKN/s3088/IMG_4272.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq_oi-rCC_z2p3Of91Hu9cqqmuRO3d9GmmCRgOat6lyEMpleIXuVTFOPf9iLiY-LHlBqMk2m7kaaWgBanK3Qlgz_Gfcre_qNUgS4umw8K1Q0pbrVnMEGyq0Gn-0-JmE0tqzp0L3yUZvrX8cFlFDNehoq6xLZFuPUaXbRfrMe2wdnq32JqjhAHs4f7CpzKN/w400-h300/IMG_4272.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Mt. Baden Powell</div></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;">...and then, I shut things down. Other than my daily dog walks, and one short local hike up a nearby hill in town, I effectively took the first three weeks of December entirely off. And it was nice. I read a lot, caught up on some research, and watched as my fitness evaporated away, and the winter weight slowly trickled on.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">When Christmas morning finally came, I was again down in Florida visiting family. I brought a lot of running gear knowing I needed to commit to starting things back up again. On Christmas morning, I got up well before dawn, laced up my dusty running shoes, and began what would be the first of many days of trying to build back my fitness.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">To keep myself on track I decided to register for a series of events in Arizona (in January) that would force me to train. Each of these events was "shorter" (i.e. less than an ultra), but were still long enough that I couldn't just "wing it". They'd still require some fitness if I actually wanted to run them all. The first event in this series would be just two weeks after Christmas, at the San Tan Scramble 26km (16-Miler).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">What was different this year with my winter build up, was that I decided to fully embrace the data. I began regularly monitoring all of the information I could that was recorded and presented from my smart watch. This wasn't just obvious things like "steps", or "calories", but also data like "intensity minutes", "training readiness", "training status and load", "respiration", etc. I kept detailed spreadsheets of everything so I could monitor my progression using real data (and not just my "feel"). I religiously recorded every run or effort, as well as total mileages, average heart rates, training zones and intensities. I tailored my training such that I ran tempo runs when I had the highest anaerobic shortages...not just on "tempo Tuesdays". I was careful to listen to my body, but to also trust the data. If my apps were telling me to "recover", I would go easy on the next run, even if I felt great. The result of all of this is that this may have been my most productive post-holiday fitness build-up in years. I went out yesterday for a long 20-miler, and it felt effortless. My heart rate never topped 140, and I felt like I could have continued for hours. I felt so good, that I ran the last 10 miles faster than the first completely unintentionally. Despite my advancing years, it feels really good to know I can still bring myself back up to a decent fitness level and I'm excited about the races that I still have on the calendar, most notably the Black Canyon 100K in two weeks.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So...let's do a quick rehash of the past 5 weeks. Christmas week I definitely jumped in a little hot, starting out with a 50-mile week. This was probably not a great idea, but I suppose I was eager to get going. I remember that first week I was quite tired as my body started realizing things were getting real. On the Saturday of that first week, I was so sore, that I ended up doing a long bike ride instead of running. That ended up being the only day since Christmas that I didn't run (December 30th). That week did end with another annual tradition: "The New Year's Revolutions." Since 2014 I have been running a looped course of my own choosing the first weekend of the new year. It was originally a real event in Pennsylvania called CJ's Resolution Challenge, but has since become a virtual/unofficial event. This year, I ran 1 mile loops around my neighborhood for 16 miles. It was a struggle given my still lack of fitness.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Each week since, my mileage has not only increased, but my tiredness has ebbed, and my fitness has grown. In the first week of January I finished out the week with 51 miles, and my first race: The San Tan Scramble. The event went well, but racing felt like a struggle. I definitely had to push to maintain a decent race pace, and it was quite apparent I wasn't in shape yet.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The following week, I eased up a bit on pacing, but still managed to maintain my mileage at 51. For the week starting January 15th, classes were now beginning, adding another level of stress and time commitment to my days. I adjusted quickly and began doing runs out of my office on lunch break or at the end of the day. This also allowed me to finally get back to tackling my multi-year effort to run every street within the city limits of Flagstaff. So far I've run about 300 miles of streets in the city, and I am now getting close to being about 50% complete. That week I ended with 60 miles and a solid running at the Coldwater Rumble 40k. I ran every step, and finished feeling fairly strong...although still not quite fully fit.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This brings us up to this week. For the first time, all of the data I have been tracking were indicating that I have reached a plateau...meaning that given all of my efforts, I am now "fit" and can work on maintaining. Of course I can try to step it up to another level, but I'm not sure I realistically want to do that. I'm ok with my 60-mile weeks...and don't really want to push beyond that. Regardless, the data don't lie, and when I went out for my 20-miler yesterday, it didn't even feel like work. It was fun, casual, and enjoyable. By afternoon, I had no fatigue in my legs and was already "recovered" according to my digital health data. What this all means is that in two weeks, I do think I'll be in really good shape to do well at the Black Canyon 100k (assuming decent weather). While I don't know if I can get close to my 2020 time of just a smidge over 12 hours, I'm certainly going to do the best I can and see how things shake out. More than anything, I just want to be consistent, and not go out too fast. Of course before Black Cnayon, and in just one week, I do have the elephant Mountain 35k (22 miles) first...but given its proximity to the Black Canyon (just one week prior), I will purposely be taking that run very easy...treating it more like a casual weekend long run. Still, I'm hoping I fell just as good coming away from it as I did yesterday on my 20-miler.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">At any rate, I guess I'm just excited to feel back on track again...and that it didn't feel like a chore getting here; it felt good; it was fun.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">As far as what I have planned after Black Canyon...well let's just say it's up in the air at the moment. I have some good ideas, have my name in a lottery or two, but so far, nothing official yet. Regardless of what I do, I will certainly not let this newfound fitness fizzle out...and will start putting some things on my calendar to keep myself accountable and on track.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Z8TVjBp_1VsHiR36jB2JJUcTk9N8l5pWuh8Hl8CDyT5YbaLv6uyWyIFfyX5Kl9Kp9D7fXesSqqT6b6-rsUvb7NIpCs05ckJT69wQMjQNf7qYeMVBQWKsry2CrdvH46EXA5uOb4o3Gs1llZr_tjLrPyh69mlVb664MDlKrgJi3DCGsI-rcSg3Ao63_izs/s1222/Screenshot%202024-01-28%20at%2012.38.16%E2%80%AFPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="782" data-original-width="1222" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Z8TVjBp_1VsHiR36jB2JJUcTk9N8l5pWuh8Hl8CDyT5YbaLv6uyWyIFfyX5Kl9Kp9D7fXesSqqT6b6-rsUvb7NIpCs05ckJT69wQMjQNf7qYeMVBQWKsry2CrdvH46EXA5uOb4o3Gs1llZr_tjLrPyh69mlVb664MDlKrgJi3DCGsI-rcSg3Ao63_izs/w400-h256/Screenshot%202024-01-28%20at%2012.38.16%E2%80%AFPM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A January of Running...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6WCPKPLHXmI7dtsDNjdAkU1y-r9clOX8rqn36zU9g-H7zlxP4es1C1kPMmTcBSx4pkfmMQNgJsQS330lNeikvXbwnR3-XTe1FjcRbbT2EftB9Z1pjfyNzhTJdTpfoAx4kg3Cb-FopCAcINFX-kIrIXW5TBeTaJ4OotN3PWAAMnjeYjCnQ7p3ddReai7aD/s1580/Screenshot%202024-01-27%20at%204.12.37%E2%80%AFPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="1580" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6WCPKPLHXmI7dtsDNjdAkU1y-r9clOX8rqn36zU9g-H7zlxP4es1C1kPMmTcBSx4pkfmMQNgJsQS330lNeikvXbwnR3-XTe1FjcRbbT2EftB9Z1pjfyNzhTJdTpfoAx4kg3Cb-FopCAcINFX-kIrIXW5TBeTaJ4OotN3PWAAMnjeYjCnQ7p3ddReai7aD/w400-h358/Screenshot%202024-01-27%20at%204.12.37%E2%80%AFPM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My progress so far on Flagstaff Streets</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-7hdKv-kstj4V84feeKE6y_GJuQJ6ple5rDJpEt_EKZg0ta-0Qhlp4xdFJxJhedZNNrXGLn6_Eu4wYaX8DgX4bh_2xSBZ4crYQie4_iGqPnqZnVIJsS56O3o4g7YOypce4oDVTE6rSKcWbNe9NsuHiZSWJIayTEkryXQTBALwvz8ZXkhAgQMn38VAVA1o/s1906/Screenshot%202024-01-12%20at%2012.48.02%E2%80%AFPM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1270" data-original-width="1906" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-7hdKv-kstj4V84feeKE6y_GJuQJ6ple5rDJpEt_EKZg0ta-0Qhlp4xdFJxJhedZNNrXGLn6_Eu4wYaX8DgX4bh_2xSBZ4crYQie4_iGqPnqZnVIJsS56O3o4g7YOypce4oDVTE6rSKcWbNe9NsuHiZSWJIayTEkryXQTBALwvz8ZXkhAgQMn38VAVA1o/w400-h266/Screenshot%202024-01-12%20at%2012.48.02%E2%80%AFPM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">San Tan Scramble 26k</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br style="text-align: left;" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWGF2SRFQ4lv7eoAQz24ifVHsFPMWmBdGkbL37MT14jwEt8WmYN38zn1uEm6IkShDxu6p0uBCBdIkT75FbiPz3hnZukvgGB_7DstW7nYfJ1DpWGd1kwyLb-86DnPOOSYYEKgJTqnP91RrAKh9EHM34cK86oN8FW_5THebQnwKamGB0n4PRjGYbYtgeo42Z/s1914/Screenshot%202024-01-26%20at%204.10.28%E2%80%AFPM%202.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1426" data-original-width="1914" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWGF2SRFQ4lv7eoAQz24ifVHsFPMWmBdGkbL37MT14jwEt8WmYN38zn1uEm6IkShDxu6p0uBCBdIkT75FbiPz3hnZukvgGB_7DstW7nYfJ1DpWGd1kwyLb-86DnPOOSYYEKgJTqnP91RrAKh9EHM34cK86oN8FW_5THebQnwKamGB0n4PRjGYbYtgeo42Z/w400-h297/Screenshot%202024-01-26%20at%204.10.28%E2%80%AFPM%202.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Coldwater Rumble 40K</div></div></div><p></p>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-84520772115092371222023-12-30T20:42:00.008-05:002023-12-31T18:21:16.541-05:00"Doubling Up" the Adventures - 2023 Year in Review<p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgC-6mLpV52aY_dzLkxhPW7nkoeaMaDyYm1juE87aVcRirUAikGwpxChRVRwH2Smb6TCmHX2QyY2J8xWCvozTqLdkjYHnb2SaXmbqLv5oQj5RJyRs0vBEu_HeOX9sfxPVzf3eUVlgKRxjZKIG_tcXsvgMGhEhxRMv7QdKCR83UJrLG5uJQCddPIgX2O18NK" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgC-6mLpV52aY_dzLkxhPW7nkoeaMaDyYm1juE87aVcRirUAikGwpxChRVRwH2Smb6TCmHX2QyY2J8xWCvozTqLdkjYHnb2SaXmbqLv5oQj5RJyRs0vBEu_HeOX9sfxPVzf3eUVlgKRxjZKIG_tcXsvgMGhEhxRMv7QdKCR83UJrLG5uJQCddPIgX2O18NK=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Some Urban Exploration...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">2023 has been one of those years that seems to have whizzed by at such a breakneck speed, that not only were sound barriers likely broken, but it is genuinely hard to keep things straight in my head. Maybe this is simply due to my aging mind, or maybe we all collectively experienced some sort-of Thanos "blip". Regardless of circumstances surrounding the apparent supersonic passing of this past year, one thing is clear: I somehow still managed to find time to fit in some truly spectacular and memorable adventures. Any year that I can comfortably sit at my laptop around the winter holidays, in good health, and reflect back on a collection of fantastic experiences....is a damn good one. As I've grown older, I've learned to appreciate my adventures more, as well as the memories that I come from them. I know there will come a time, when I can no longer take on many of the treks I do today, but until such time, I will suck that proverbial marrow out of whatever I can. As I note in my new written collection, <i>Treks to Nowhere, </i>"I want my resume of visited places to be full of superlatives, curiosities, and idiosyncrasies when I finally move on from this world."</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And so here we are, just a few days left on the 2023 calendar, and there is again much to look back on with fondness, and a smile. Once again, I will try to keep this post relatively chronological, stepping through the year, as it were. I do think it's worth mentioning a few of "big ticket" adventures right up front here, however. These specific adventures (or their preparation) were the ones that perhaps spanned many months or set the tone or a greater theme for the year. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Among these "big ticket" adventures, I would include my tackling of the infamous "Ultramarathon Western States / Hardrock Double," as well as my 1000-mile Arizona Grand Ride. 2023 was once again a year defined in large part by running. I knocked out several ultramarathons, and even completed my 100th ultra race. I hiked several peaks, went on countless motorcycle adventures, watched another eclipse, vacationed in Colorado, finally kayaked in Flagstaff, co-authored a handful of scientific papers, graduated my first masters student, and published my first full book (inspired by my writing on this very site)! So many great things to look back on....so let's jump in, starting in January...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Running:</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">January was all about getting back into shape. In December of last year I learned that I was selected in both the Western States 100 and Hardrock 100 lotteries. This rare occurrence is known in the ultrarunning world as "The Double," and it presents a notoriously difficult challenge. I've run both of these events before, but not during the same Summer. What makes this challenge just so tough, is that these two events are both on independently difficult courses....and are only three weeks apart. It's impossible to truly recover from a 100-mile run in under three weeks, so I knew this would be an adventure that would be hard fought, and really test my limits (especially considering my age - I'm just not as young as I used to be). So, as I noted, January was all about trying to slowly ramp back up my training. I typically take off running in December and let myself rest up for several weeks. But given this "Double" development, I needed to commit to several months of consistent and focused training. The way I decided to do this was to sign up for several shorter races in January and February as a way to keep myself on track. Of course what made this particularly difficult was that for almost four straight months (Jan - Apr), Flagstaff experienced record snowfall....making outside running not only impractical, but sometimes impossible. Given this, it also meant that I had to sign up for my campus gym, and run hundred of miles on a treadmill. This is definitely not preferred, but at least I was able to get in my miles.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">From Jan through the first of May, I ran seven competitive races (several of ultra length). This included The Coldwater 20 Miler, Elephant Mountain 50K, Black Canyon 100K, Mesquite Canyon 30K, Dam Good Run 40K, Zion 50K, and Cocodona 38 Miler. It was a a slow and arduous road back to peak fitness, but one I'm glad I was able to tackle. It felt good to finally be back in proper peak shape. I remember running the Cocodona 38 on May 1st, feeling as good as I have in years. I missed that feeling.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg51S1z32Xm76O8QjfvnCUQzeEFzSfy0ElA4CPozdrPyVPaIHtuNhKr2hS6QByGpQfG6E1MLvJIrPBSEJy8NCg2ZPZ9dLiXDgshSbio7sXbl-INBFQ-SZSd0w2SSVbwJ0_Bln95i1Td8-khLMc5wRj6ZvVHmVXdceEn9-iBjrKp5DoyQxTXgCGeYV8swP2w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2268" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg51S1z32Xm76O8QjfvnCUQzeEFzSfy0ElA4CPozdrPyVPaIHtuNhKr2hS6QByGpQfG6E1MLvJIrPBSEJy8NCg2ZPZ9dLiXDgshSbio7sXbl-INBFQ-SZSd0w2SSVbwJ0_Bln95i1Td8-khLMc5wRj6ZvVHmVXdceEn9-iBjrKp5DoyQxTXgCGeYV8swP2w=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Finishing the Elephant Mountain 50K</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhPw8OKXfa4ita7_2O0xGyES4B8G2FH5-aGpw8z-h8ttdF3hIZLv2CiSWvU7Vnz129zwxtUQmbqJPMSObeLeH3JRRlsavN_4-y7Gf-YdgOoliFt_44n88eEOnj1k7AN_vleTThw5L1Irc-qFG2mUOtNQocffOjl5Zm0K1742_6MnAZerm1b3kmb4pfQ8k1B" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1105" data-original-width="497" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhPw8OKXfa4ita7_2O0xGyES4B8G2FH5-aGpw8z-h8ttdF3hIZLv2CiSWvU7Vnz129zwxtUQmbqJPMSObeLeH3JRRlsavN_4-y7Gf-YdgOoliFt_44n88eEOnj1k7AN_vleTThw5L1Irc-qFG2mUOtNQocffOjl5Zm0K1742_6MnAZerm1b3kmb4pfQ8k1B=w180-h400" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Running Black Canyon 100K w/Friends</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3pcZOhyUMBMY_nOrTlX2dyWTfsi8B8l5qUlgPYMsFAu-uxZB2YEfR4qs8BYexFoZDKMZCWF1PhzcZh2_IxNsS8iIYcA8g6tANfPmfB9cSps9P7INz38QkkGlpMvkq0CZjIPbMWKIUqjaAyLmOamEVkGP-NTQpwhdtoSgY8YJIGni8ZcCHpb78doQ-387Z" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3pcZOhyUMBMY_nOrTlX2dyWTfsi8B8l5qUlgPYMsFAu-uxZB2YEfR4qs8BYexFoZDKMZCWF1PhzcZh2_IxNsS8iIYcA8g6tANfPmfB9cSps9P7INz38QkkGlpMvkq0CZjIPbMWKIUqjaAyLmOamEVkGP-NTQpwhdtoSgY8YJIGni8ZcCHpb78doQ-387Z=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Along the Black Canyon Course</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Barkley Marathons:</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">In mid-march, I was also asked by my friend John Kelly if I would be willing to crew for him at the infamous Barkley Marathons. I crewed for him back in 2019, but he ended up quitting after his 2nd loop. This time though, I could sense the fire in him and agreed to do it without hesitation--I had a strong sense that he was going to do very well. Having finished all 5 loops back in 2012 myself, I always wanted to be a crew chief for another runner that also finishes all 5 loops. I saw this as a way of closing the loop, and paying back my debt to the Barkley Gods. I wanted to have on my running resume that not only did I finish Barkley, but that "My Runner" finished Barkley. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I won't delve too much into the details of my experience. John K. has a wonderful race report listed on his own page, and it's his story to tell. My role really only amounted to a few frantic minutes between his loops, punctuated by many hours of waiting around camp between loops. Still, I loved the experience and seeing John finish...knowing that I helped play a tiny part in his success and was able to repay my Barkley debt. It was an incredible year to be at the event. There were again three finishers (similar to 2012--the year I finished). In addition, the 3rd place finisher, Karel Sabbe, came in with about 7 minutes to spare before the cutoff. This meant he managed to unseat me as the "Slowest Barkley Finisher." It was truly an adventure like no other.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjalPXNqXiR53CunRnOnwMRaSTEqs9bAXeyDBsbBYuq3XNull5x_Veh8LUuEbFnKNeMAPgkxre2l8nz3VpYnvjzDH5kM0Ks-_GpQPOYTjQk0ULHTPSKo9jF9os5uSbXoFhTz06Fb0xRsz5y9mpSCVUPNK9d5Z8G_XYDdyoFCIpbnc188Q5nC5_TQWNM70mg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjalPXNqXiR53CunRnOnwMRaSTEqs9bAXeyDBsbBYuq3XNull5x_Veh8LUuEbFnKNeMAPgkxre2l8nz3VpYnvjzDH5kM0Ks-_GpQPOYTjQk0ULHTPSKo9jF9os5uSbXoFhTz06Fb0xRsz5y9mpSCVUPNK9d5Z8G_XYDdyoFCIpbnc188Q5nC5_TQWNM70mg=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Laz getting things started...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-qqmssToHeJN6ten5W9RtBAGDe1VWGLjzRMgaa2UkbvFhgaB-Sesq5pJ_yOWBJ8z3VUt4-G_1J71ZFskqaJOIsN0KF3s6hT_HJiwes48X-y51aTgtq-as7I1Rn4__dsl85f8Ll0PrLNwOBly-zI6ov0fTRsBr3L0Ag5hxIwikif31QzXqw39s8lahSW4a" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh-qqmssToHeJN6ten5W9RtBAGDe1VWGLjzRMgaa2UkbvFhgaB-Sesq5pJ_yOWBJ8z3VUt4-G_1J71ZFskqaJOIsN0KF3s6hT_HJiwes48X-y51aTgtq-as7I1Rn4__dsl85f8Ll0PrLNwOBly-zI6ov0fTRsBr3L0Ag5hxIwikif31QzXqw39s8lahSW4a=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">John leaving on loop 3</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdsRyLHoaSDn9elFydwSnZQxRyBrwNBUhuYXN5O0B64DjgDQzLx2Mnvig8_oVSYd4dU9cVq_KvQohyweRWC81tYhwoP2go05ikM4EtqwsCf6-MjUKz7M3Ttz5tbcj1sXxWCtT9qfDDu7zq1saGyyVMgPBJt56DX-G5UvyJzBbdINTdLfF7vAGUoG8s8ulH" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdsRyLHoaSDn9elFydwSnZQxRyBrwNBUhuYXN5O0B64DjgDQzLx2Mnvig8_oVSYd4dU9cVq_KvQohyweRWC81tYhwoP2go05ikM4EtqwsCf6-MjUKz7M3Ttz5tbcj1sXxWCtT9qfDDu7zq1saGyyVMgPBJt56DX-G5UvyJzBbdINTdLfF7vAGUoG8s8ulH=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Loop 3 leaders at the tower</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgQplx9ze4jqoQ0VIEyn3wP8TxvQ2rj-Uu4WkjiaXbUy73iCO8fuQQxNs_2ocsDpFPZz10YLg4wmJ1X0nFZn_a2i4FAYsSqekgI57NIYQb5-XOweeTFUL1NIer0fwoE3Y75M1fQ018Kzcd1hTjI5sLzDBrbU5edsDQP_aJWw0QUDmMA4N0JDSEcuEPUCpMo" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgQplx9ze4jqoQ0VIEyn3wP8TxvQ2rj-Uu4WkjiaXbUy73iCO8fuQQxNs_2ocsDpFPZz10YLg4wmJ1X0nFZn_a2i4FAYsSqekgI57NIYQb5-XOweeTFUL1NIer0fwoE3Y75M1fQ018Kzcd1hTjI5sLzDBrbU5edsDQP_aJWw0QUDmMA4N0JDSEcuEPUCpMo=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">John filling up at the tower on loop 5</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg28ENvj-sevz9wogp1my1-PzWCaRyrNsjIBP7iLrTvoNJsCsmnNzbmzBGKMqzcdV2RiMAsmQyznqRzk1aoaTuh-Vjaf66zP1XiPEbPGKtaZewTJ43XeKF_OnRZCN4QLk96wAI4J6UOsFVIUywzZyE42qVGg-3z48N-zb3TSu8b3h8AJyedksimCRrMRgwK" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg28ENvj-sevz9wogp1my1-PzWCaRyrNsjIBP7iLrTvoNJsCsmnNzbmzBGKMqzcdV2RiMAsmQyznqRzk1aoaTuh-Vjaf66zP1XiPEbPGKtaZewTJ43XeKF_OnRZCN4QLk96wAI4J6UOsFVIUywzZyE42qVGg-3z48N-zb3TSu8b3h8AJyedksimCRrMRgwK=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">John's Finish</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>A Grand Ride</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">In April, as the semester was coming to a close, I took my graduate students on a fun field trip up to Northern Arizona and the Navajo Nation to see a large solar farm. My running continued to ramp up, and the snow finally began to melt. When the weather finally got warm enough, and the roads fully clear of snow and ice, I also finally realized a dream I've had since late 2020 when I first bought my Royal Enfield Himalayan motorcycle. That dream, was to plan, and successfully carry out what is known as an Iron Butt Saddlesore Ride. This ride is a type of challenge in the motorcycling community that tests a rider by having them ride over 1000 continuous miles in under 24 total hours. This is a surprisingly difficult challenge, and one that takes a lot of persistence, patience, and frankly, stubbornness. Riding for 1000 miles is really hard, and doing it continuously, while also staying safe, is a true challenge.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Over the winter months, I carefully plotted out a route that I would follow for my ride, I ensured there were adequate fuel stops along the way, and that I would indeed hit 1000 total miles. I also ensured that I could start and stop at my house and ride a loop route. I decided to brand my ride a "Grand Ride," as I thought it made for a more fun take on the challenge. On Friday, April 14th, I took off of work, fired up my bike at 3:00 am, and left my house (in sub-freezing temperatures). Throughout the day, I worked my way around my planned route, making steady and consistent progress. By the time sunset came over 16 hours later, I was over 800 miles into my ride and turning for the final stretch back home. Ultimately I made it back safely without any issues. I managed to ride through just about every landscape and ecosystem that Arizona has to offer. It was an absolutely epic ride, and one that I will never forget. And despite the obvious backside discomfort, I'm already planning the longer Iron Butt Bun Burner 1500-mile challenge for 2024. I published an entire post about this ride as well as a video compilation and podcast episode featuring the highlights.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2023/04/a-grand-adventure.html">ARIZONA GRAND RIDE FULL WRITE-UP</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/treks-to-nowhere/id1648212644?i=1000637397896">ARIZONA GRAND RIDE PODCAST</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmAWigGxJQspRXfN0zl-2WMGmJ-yMDfpd13O2pq0ULynrlH2a13MnrCjNEmwmEU70U1YWT9UhdhvPSx1XWWAG-BiY1z-BO7SWjq97H87cASOQJ5Z8IQd__zXI14n45FrLH0-EcQ0RbBbLI8OKYlL-wKkqR8b6WWmqUi6cs3sM9yDD63uqLaPHAr0FnbrsG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmAWigGxJQspRXfN0zl-2WMGmJ-yMDfpd13O2pq0ULynrlH2a13MnrCjNEmwmEU70U1YWT9UhdhvPSx1XWWAG-BiY1z-BO7SWjq97H87cASOQJ5Z8IQd__zXI14n45FrLH0-EcQ0RbBbLI8OKYlL-wKkqR8b6WWmqUi6cs3sM9yDD63uqLaPHAr0FnbrsG=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div>Mile 150 of my 1000-mile ride</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/y3hUJbpLamY" width="398" youtube-src-id="y3hUJbpLamY"></iframe></div>Full Video Compilation<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">As Spring finally brought some warmer temperatures, I finally found myself enjoying the outdoors much more. I was running regularly again outside, and even kayaking on occasion on the now full Lower Lake Mary (from all of the recent snow melt).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgiIArbFJFUxql_gznR0q4esrLNrWS5Dj0r15SgnktxQhJz14BcKhod1-g-tc8N5LGQDmZ2J4K2WyCbRUCCeJdhEVE8_TpeRQMkooI5WnSDupu353feqT_2YhhkmzHbOBNd0w6zcz93L9Eqwe3LyOWXUo4mnMixhXJPCvCTT2PCsmo3rptP4yoLyVkThfXg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgiIArbFJFUxql_gznR0q4esrLNrWS5Dj0r15SgnktxQhJz14BcKhod1-g-tc8N5LGQDmZ2J4K2WyCbRUCCeJdhEVE8_TpeRQMkooI5WnSDupu353feqT_2YhhkmzHbOBNd0w6zcz93L9Eqwe3LyOWXUo4mnMixhXJPCvCTT2PCsmo3rptP4yoLyVkThfXg=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Grad student field trip</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiXwbMLoPQSm7w0toPaLfdZy8kBANcXlHFilt1LRNzC0YPWtLuYtVI8dNQu19keljheeT4vziQLeSGy3h_yqzuXzZ9bMjUvy7HxjuxaTM8t5rlGKjRyCz0xcH18y0-oRwnKYBBj9ZzVUwP26DQUw2208966KAVJOR38OqeHecxTZNuldCG9l0nn90QIlRqn" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiXwbMLoPQSm7w0toPaLfdZy8kBANcXlHFilt1LRNzC0YPWtLuYtVI8dNQu19keljheeT4vziQLeSGy3h_yqzuXzZ9bMjUvy7HxjuxaTM8t5rlGKjRyCz0xcH18y0-oRwnKYBBj9ZzVUwP26DQUw2208966KAVJOR38OqeHecxTZNuldCG9l0nn90QIlRqn=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Lake Mary Kayaking</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTVFl5X0CoiNneEu1TiB08lQOghY80RfjXUKP3PwrUZ2RkdygFFL8U_PQMznn_xuWxx9tRrSRwhczMelcCMFGj6RYi2CHSMKFqGQ3okcfbJ-NnJ_46DWQFVI0a9wsx-ajuE5J98iwnLpWyyoc2d8U_YCa8fsYnuVM8MA6675iIuTnjuT3Z4bNMyA89ZoJs" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTVFl5X0CoiNneEu1TiB08lQOghY80RfjXUKP3PwrUZ2RkdygFFL8U_PQMznn_xuWxx9tRrSRwhczMelcCMFGj6RYi2CHSMKFqGQ3okcfbJ-NnJ_46DWQFVI0a9wsx-ajuE5J98iwnLpWyyoc2d8U_YCa8fsYnuVM8MA6675iIuTnjuT3Z4bNMyA89ZoJs=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Lake Mary Kayaking</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>The Double</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">As summer started to approach, my focus shifted entirely to that of my final "Double" preparation. This included a few final training races as well as another "up and down" at the Grand Canyon. Somewhere in there I also squeezed in trips out to Seattle for a fantastic science meeting, as well as the ice core laboratory for some sampling. I also flew out to California with my good friend from the East Coast, in order to take part in the Western States Training Camp. This camp would give us the chance to see 70 miles of the actual Western States course before race day, and asses the snow situation. California received record snow fall and we were both worried about conditions for the race in June. Camp went well for the first two days, but on the third day, I took a horrible spill, and fell really hard on my right knee (and my hands). I was really worried that I may have done some serious damage that might have put my running of the "double" in jeopardy. After all of my focused training, my races were in serious doubt. I spent the next two weeks nursing my sore knee and doing everything I could to allow it to heal and recover quickly. Thankfully, it healed enough to not cause any serious trouble for either summer race. I was incredibly lucky.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Just before Western States (The first of the "double" races), I ran one final 50k training race and my knee did ok. This was all I needed to assuage any doubts I was having about my knee.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Race weekend came, and it all went off quite well. I had a good run, and my plan to not push too hard went exactly as I had hoped. The snow in the first 15-20 miles was pretty rough, and slowed me down considerably, but I was able to recover enough that I still finished right at 27 hours. I wrote an entire race report following the event here:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2023/07/the-eye-of-storm-2023-western-states.html">WESTERN STATES RACE REPORT FULL WRITE-UP</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhjBZw-n75gwxNYJuZz1dJbVHaREM-1dwPuXIi0_HCdZaxeZN5KQBHVKA4tYUEpFgQaeKJ-yEot9zeFZnom-xnhea8mj66jTj18hsA1yHZe5hRWLmoQHl73nhpnAUEuhrMPHQTfYKBlr9JcS5Uj8xjP5F6ckK1uh-erMEcy0xRupCjilJlg3OYQ4pV6j0jF" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhjBZw-n75gwxNYJuZz1dJbVHaREM-1dwPuXIi0_HCdZaxeZN5KQBHVKA4tYUEpFgQaeKJ-yEot9zeFZnom-xnhea8mj66jTj18hsA1yHZe5hRWLmoQHl73nhpnAUEuhrMPHQTfYKBlr9JcS5Uj8xjP5F6ckK1uh-erMEcy0xRupCjilJlg3OYQ4pV6j0jF=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At the Grand Canyon....again</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhitG18wzPz1-RdXc_CpXEKmeYfvGAKgWaypGetVVetHgmxjx9zVG3S32oc7hAMtLCVxAkp2YfUw2N41d6cwt5S3ECwyGzuh_P9cTSr9pRXLI5ouOzshOZJZX8mAqAJ_TFP21D3pJ9EvbzRNDviejos8sJ5vZZViAqQCKwR353Q_zfErJcLBGqVLuMyRb43" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4480" data-original-width="6720" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhitG18wzPz1-RdXc_CpXEKmeYfvGAKgWaypGetVVetHgmxjx9zVG3S32oc7hAMtLCVxAkp2YfUw2N41d6cwt5S3ECwyGzuh_P9cTSr9pRXLI5ouOzshOZJZX8mAqAJ_TFP21D3pJ9EvbzRNDviejos8sJ5vZZViAqQCKwR353Q_zfErJcLBGqVLuMyRb43=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Training Camp Pic #1</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVTTXZGY33yx_U2jMYbnWPozYI4bjgL5sTds05sVqyvt4zp_njNzBFp7HZW80N2shsVRIK2NCJ7Iq-i0XZU8IseBRqMOiTKrf3Zxr7ospClWRfbBCOUI4Bci1E1Fc_8XQaBXzJkM4FOCFn5lonsXJfYXVgH57HRKFZOw3w3BS9_WdjmS0_m8ZMuFQHc23y" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4480" data-original-width="6720" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVTTXZGY33yx_U2jMYbnWPozYI4bjgL5sTds05sVqyvt4zp_njNzBFp7HZW80N2shsVRIK2NCJ7Iq-i0XZU8IseBRqMOiTKrf3Zxr7ospClWRfbBCOUI4Bci1E1Fc_8XQaBXzJkM4FOCFn5lonsXJfYXVgH57HRKFZOw3w3BS9_WdjmS0_m8ZMuFQHc23y=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Training Camp Pic #2</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTCZfPB_7rTv0kuhFftLYWAyemyDYzsga6h_qoiLAHsIQQLzHvl5loWoW1xtbiP-boU88zNl0Bt_Coj4mn4kT4B4olVGvJcMrIPftJpUlaI8ZgBhuU5Rdc6M-7C2MTSZ6gxQHB6TZtBQzXHJUDRShhwgo7ZPBU-O7P0hFU2wu7h6bBWN9NOGVXv04WQT5o" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTCZfPB_7rTv0kuhFftLYWAyemyDYzsga6h_qoiLAHsIQQLzHvl5loWoW1xtbiP-boU88zNl0Bt_Coj4mn4kT4B4olVGvJcMrIPftJpUlaI8ZgBhuU5Rdc6M-7C2MTSZ6gxQHB6TZtBQzXHJUDRShhwgo7ZPBU-O7P0hFU2wu7h6bBWN9NOGVXv04WQT5o=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Training Camp Pic #3</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjL96FN0GqXZ40cCWIRmdCaTTFOjUO_dy7U9nVyGQ0ME9wRrqPWcjsvI7aRiENw3NkMkXMoXcyPx5_WFfQt5vlSc9o_4wmZpyElVm0bxf-2kbFNyC0nlU2mnv0Ionr_ZYiKtExg_NyAEMeJVFo7tbRpHviOCqdPGwRfoVDP4iZQXpkCN5eQB59H0zSqZN2B" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1620" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjL96FN0GqXZ40cCWIRmdCaTTFOjUO_dy7U9nVyGQ0ME9wRrqPWcjsvI7aRiENw3NkMkXMoXcyPx5_WFfQt5vlSc9o_4wmZpyElVm0bxf-2kbFNyC0nlU2mnv0Ionr_ZYiKtExg_NyAEMeJVFo7tbRpHviOCqdPGwRfoVDP4iZQXpkCN5eQB59H0zSqZN2B=w267-h400" width="267" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Getting signed in on race day</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEinUHp6FyjZHsqGaLwv7b7RwN3JPXnLzAqeUOfuwQDPISd5FLEhbpKLjchEUN5fb-zCTivf_XC2kW-8iRD4spFMR6cfIqBmDGhb0vAD1s8V7ymmilgi63TMBi7L4rp3HjUzb2GnmUjbCh80Die2piUjCCPFl33rfAYkfjQ_iobVsSEWDU6EgIsLrx4xPboX" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEinUHp6FyjZHsqGaLwv7b7RwN3JPXnLzAqeUOfuwQDPISd5FLEhbpKLjchEUN5fb-zCTivf_XC2kW-8iRD4spFMR6cfIqBmDGhb0vAD1s8V7ymmilgi63TMBi7L4rp3HjUzb2GnmUjbCh80Die2piUjCCPFl33rfAYkfjQ_iobVsSEWDU6EgIsLrx4xPboX=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Getting wrist-band</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgf20Sdje-qtq0zmuCwPcWyLz5GnLyxgGfTXw-O42sezTVD006ytEsRD-QVUnEdaH-DGchX2lXl2oadOWI4cqs7d_a9KtnVEMuxWfoNDwmUvRXGxC4Et2lkFj0zR_HtS14IjOjMv4Kjm72DmoCI-VPzjy2Vr5zoEykUfM7V30liJPZS0dY3FmHaXswGZw0d" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgf20Sdje-qtq0zmuCwPcWyLz5GnLyxgGfTXw-O42sezTVD006ytEsRD-QVUnEdaH-DGchX2lXl2oadOWI4cqs7d_a9KtnVEMuxWfoNDwmUvRXGxC4Et2lkFj0zR_HtS14IjOjMv4Kjm72DmoCI-VPzjy2Vr5zoEykUfM7V30liJPZS0dY3FmHaXswGZw0d=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The day before the start</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7QOcg6_HYAJ95edwMHNrYm13x4UqaeE9y2LsINGcSzgXuE4V8n8VGoko2LPqQe9hcmt4M22II6aIcMrgsjKpZFNAQ-C4pZRrcyJ3KLGmPpsfCANRQtEf7BU9qUYlm8Ehr5PHO4nKjEZAFI2j-W39OtYYN9vhLM0IBDNV-L0X-jmdDR3CEZvDL-inPfMUW" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3018" data-original-width="3104" height="389" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi7QOcg6_HYAJ95edwMHNrYm13x4UqaeE9y2LsINGcSzgXuE4V8n8VGoko2LPqQe9hcmt4M22II6aIcMrgsjKpZFNAQ-C4pZRrcyJ3KLGmPpsfCANRQtEf7BU9qUYlm8Ehr5PHO4nKjEZAFI2j-W39OtYYN9vhLM0IBDNV-L0X-jmdDR3CEZvDL-inPfMUW=w400-h389" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The entire WS gang</div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgaq2teQJ6gviDeBxbaROxAilsU_vI3uWMtW4H_oVTlZ-lPtHdSJVp0RU73Uqj8k7mFi77Bp4aSeHw1BqW2SdR2eMCaRBPSbbfJaSj0W7eFrshPN39FofC5bxv0cJiQMBlo-A8QBhcDraZOqFfWy2TYG5JYdgz2sWFOu0-1rboX4Cuc_7pQujkF-dUQNucj" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgaq2teQJ6gviDeBxbaROxAilsU_vI3uWMtW4H_oVTlZ-lPtHdSJVp0RU73Uqj8k7mFi77Bp4aSeHw1BqW2SdR2eMCaRBPSbbfJaSj0W7eFrshPN39FofC5bxv0cJiQMBlo-A8QBhcDraZOqFfWy2TYG5JYdgz2sWFOu0-1rboX4Cuc_7pQujkF-dUQNucj=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Along the course</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1_SPNKoXDu_0VIYi9ndICSZJe7gnmcHaftZlVJpWysaqMi5gBQ6k9K4UVIy5vgXamtkgXtKi9hsHfs3l8n-6DoriGXeoXZCTNAX0CzHuCjIXa-Rrh8WvTswMbhJushAXs-K4FNctmFq_ypJh-zbgKyEpGt7-VdAsT8EunV_wRXCNJilu6MhP5dQJx6EFV" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1_SPNKoXDu_0VIYi9ndICSZJe7gnmcHaftZlVJpWysaqMi5gBQ6k9K4UVIy5vgXamtkgXtKi9hsHfs3l8n-6DoriGXeoXZCTNAX0CzHuCjIXa-Rrh8WvTswMbhJushAXs-K4FNctmFq_ypJh-zbgKyEpGt7-VdAsT8EunV_wRXCNJilu6MhP5dQJx6EFV=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Along the course</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjSbZs8yJsaHDB0Iv7LbqMPrHn91a_YP0cxz0_QaP9-r__ncMEQm7EJR7e5sDcA17jjVFGN8SbnAie7xWG2VNrgWeRTq-2i4_FIaule8I7hDz804TudgBw3BvGe-4T_O3UWABFx3mZeFKZC4wbEsNin-D_xeph4ILdZS8iXIcohq73mPNfgwhteoSXfChLR" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjSbZs8yJsaHDB0Iv7LbqMPrHn91a_YP0cxz0_QaP9-r__ncMEQm7EJR7e5sDcA17jjVFGN8SbnAie7xWG2VNrgWeRTq-2i4_FIaule8I7hDz804TudgBw3BvGe-4T_O3UWABFx3mZeFKZC4wbEsNin-D_xeph4ILdZS8iXIcohq73mPNfgwhteoSXfChLR=w267-h400" width="267" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Along the course</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg7E5hp6VktUS-6JPk3rYNr4MMv72gwM059lQNeM_Zf1gHjTQ6-3sxbA8VKcBUF0mt9KcrNl8IjyQb1f6ZwiruUPpTViEXIf-cZIg4rJyotqQFnAUuvwNzNGEm9XUDJ2ZFB73fo4vI6oBreGXk7YYe-ozspYP4uOz8qVJMGPlum9kSngCmxiTWeW-h_G8y4" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg7E5hp6VktUS-6JPk3rYNr4MMv72gwM059lQNeM_Zf1gHjTQ6-3sxbA8VKcBUF0mt9KcrNl8IjyQb1f6ZwiruUPpTViEXIf-cZIg4rJyotqQFnAUuvwNzNGEm9XUDJ2ZFB73fo4vI6oBreGXk7YYe-ozspYP4uOz8qVJMGPlum9kSngCmxiTWeW-h_G8y4=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At the finish!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjc52p9gIgjwRC7UmcpfHwXOnDuHtm0biyy2Ak4zsD84rNaslJX08Xbpfw2hf82i39fsWSKefdLjvZR18fzEmocH4DVMy9Iz3ReHzJ0BSNLyd1dJCMiDQD0EATlzeThQ_BOHNthuDj2TOwCyns01KQVtbhudsmoUW9RgNAUYar7mzQZH0pZrV44OhBiu0de" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2855" data-original-width="3871" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjc52p9gIgjwRC7UmcpfHwXOnDuHtm0biyy2Ak4zsD84rNaslJX08Xbpfw2hf82i39fsWSKefdLjvZR18fzEmocH4DVMy9Iz3ReHzJ0BSNLyd1dJCMiDQD0EATlzeThQ_BOHNthuDj2TOwCyns01KQVtbhudsmoUW9RgNAUYar7mzQZH0pZrV44OhBiu0de=w400-h295" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My 2nd Western States Buckle</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Not long after Western States (And with only a couple of weeks to recover), I was in Colorado prepping for my second run, the Hardrock 100. As a way to get in some final training, I headed up to the Maroon Bells Wilderness for some fantastic camping and climbing. I was able to bag my 54th 14er peak (out of 58) and enjoy some wilderness time with C and the dog. We also camped for several days down near the Wilson 14er group in the Lizard Head Wilderness area. Things were looking pretty good leading up to the race, but then on race day, we were presented with ridiculously dry conditions. Over the course of the race, I developed major breathing issues due to the dry air and suffered from acute exercise-induced asthma. It didn't really cause me issues until around mile 75, but he final 25 miles of the race were an absolute struggle and I was nearly pulled by medical staff. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">One of the things that also made Hardrock so special was that it marked my 100th official ultramarathon race. I wrote an entire report detailing my entire experience at Hardrock and my quest for 100 ultramarathons here:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2023/07/breathe-in-air-2023-hardrock-100-run.html">HARDROCK FULL RACE REPORT WRITE-UP</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2023/02/the-quest-for-100-ultramarathons.html">A QUEST FOR 100 ULTRAMARATHONS (LINK)</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjzDeLFbv3d8QNzO8Q3VAlJLUjoVegm53iRasYb2vlW9eGDyYTzv6k-nawBIzfBtUsXjiutbfvDYbKw7uaZXyn3HxgmS7minv2spbWRYELMlGsDSdwjmWXjG5fdXWJA2KOd3PCmxJn6rhfROjyDXJMClBzI4fHZt1PDqYFyzeAn_j-Qx7BuHi2DaKiztHzn" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjzDeLFbv3d8QNzO8Q3VAlJLUjoVegm53iRasYb2vlW9eGDyYTzv6k-nawBIzfBtUsXjiutbfvDYbKw7uaZXyn3HxgmS7minv2spbWRYELMlGsDSdwjmWXjG5fdXWJA2KOd3PCmxJn6rhfROjyDXJMClBzI4fHZt1PDqYFyzeAn_j-Qx7BuHi2DaKiztHzn=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Camping in the San Juans</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLMBPA7sfmuwzkhcnhn7VBmRd6mLbkVbTd9ezbhgPMj7gnof5ytxTcVMgpixGZRV-rUkZGk2y9Fvz48MH17Sx0-9hc-URngnlzV6myJxIEUPs3h6sMoZXsTZ-Hok1u4SdB7MWZrtoo9lHOsC4D0ff3Xvs2UEPQfdaVc9jz63y1zsS1fDuqGGn1MWyhscUo" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLMBPA7sfmuwzkhcnhn7VBmRd6mLbkVbTd9ezbhgPMj7gnof5ytxTcVMgpixGZRV-rUkZGk2y9Fvz48MH17Sx0-9hc-URngnlzV6myJxIEUPs3h6sMoZXsTZ-Hok1u4SdB7MWZrtoo9lHOsC4D0ff3Xvs2UEPQfdaVc9jz63y1zsS1fDuqGGn1MWyhscUo=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At the Maroon Bells</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjXRyNfIyLzhCH-VydozpiQf-u9F3fYzvfCXYvRGcHvfyRoIe6dKU3HFP5kXGXy3FVt_nmzmpwDxR0TOP_vS9zCm8rHWzaQDkqb3qmr06SBMd6ySwUE3wq_sTUKEYc9F-BCFc6L5H1vjx6IcR-M4LkV512tcW2qItQdyEUge5VAXCkn9ZbnuGx7V4BidbN2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjXRyNfIyLzhCH-VydozpiQf-u9F3fYzvfCXYvRGcHvfyRoIe6dKU3HFP5kXGXy3FVt_nmzmpwDxR0TOP_vS9zCm8rHWzaQDkqb3qmr06SBMd6ySwUE3wq_sTUKEYc9F-BCFc6L5H1vjx6IcR-M4LkV512tcW2qItQdyEUge5VAXCkn9ZbnuGx7V4BidbN2=w400-h301" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">On the summit of Maroon Peak</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyZ4p_wkCpjRPfUupeXjnfxXwyCSJFnWETJI-8wKQoYy6P-Iq5UOsduSFqnRap_Z7wg8NL9WjTTDJi49gMH0vTvRo8C4BIuhXGPBhFFG8ynlyXybA9H-KB0wndymJmWC0Q4aeR_NyFNYjSly20CZiy7ipjFg3kHbSB_yUzKcGya8oucSFOowllpf5K3Pdd" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyZ4p_wkCpjRPfUupeXjnfxXwyCSJFnWETJI-8wKQoYy6P-Iq5UOsduSFqnRap_Z7wg8NL9WjTTDJi49gMH0vTvRo8C4BIuhXGPBhFFG8ynlyXybA9H-KB0wndymJmWC0Q4aeR_NyFNYjSly20CZiy7ipjFg3kHbSB_yUzKcGya8oucSFOowllpf5K3Pdd=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Maroon Bells</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCDfLGBj0lOqS_Kj6a13-0o9bksahh9Fyzk4AWIIGkfnDNl85twXVpIkjbKOMgrY1g5TfI5jRC-ySTj0nJN_KDZHEnkylV4VT0UPYaKD1ekZrBDQLI9BmNfB2EyfX9fkpLeOYULu00NRemva6I4Z35Ovr_Ughf9PGusnPk92VdIry3fuQog9cckmIH1TuR" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCDfLGBj0lOqS_Kj6a13-0o9bksahh9Fyzk4AWIIGkfnDNl85twXVpIkjbKOMgrY1g5TfI5jRC-ySTj0nJN_KDZHEnkylV4VT0UPYaKD1ekZrBDQLI9BmNfB2EyfX9fkpLeOYULu00NRemva6I4Z35Ovr_Ughf9PGusnPk92VdIry3fuQog9cckmIH1TuR=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Set up for HR 100 run</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhIlVxEPEQ0rgPydbnSWfnw6GJ_m9F9iP8uKndY4TQ5bOnDb4yUYF9hJIfn02Hm7ChHr7DhDvxHSrOF5nfILEYcxjnBirhNUiEyHGPCsAm1LxxJI2ESAMLf6gOTbGqHXWQH0LD-oCyjoFL_6JizSlvXXMVAtQMjOS81LJisa9VbFVZIFTBZyxWj7VZ7z4K" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhIlVxEPEQ0rgPydbnSWfnw6GJ_m9F9iP8uKndY4TQ5bOnDb4yUYF9hJIfn02Hm7ChHr7DhDvxHSrOF5nfILEYcxjnBirhNUiEyHGPCsAm1LxxJI2ESAMLf6gOTbGqHXWQH0LD-oCyjoFL_6JizSlvXXMVAtQMjOS81LJisa9VbFVZIFTBZyxWj7VZ7z4K=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The Start Line chute</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGTQqL48Z2dPESc6odhzZLEnbLLHLcP8fKzHkV7ZdRL5y1h1byGRaDnPwelHuztTUhuSA54Ufv0N1DqeV7GcUVjjLe2j_IzR7CxVclcp22Vop1tDac5HemAQY7i8YbfF6D8ucIqC4-KAjLM5_aGcX_Yz9y1AW-z6DcQWUqZvU8nxjNl5DiOATEmxp8VAXK" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGTQqL48Z2dPESc6odhzZLEnbLLHLcP8fKzHkV7ZdRL5y1h1byGRaDnPwelHuztTUhuSA54Ufv0N1DqeV7GcUVjjLe2j_IzR7CxVclcp22Vop1tDac5HemAQY7i8YbfF6D8ucIqC4-KAjLM5_aGcX_Yz9y1AW-z6DcQWUqZvU8nxjNl5DiOATEmxp8VAXK=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Leaving Cunningham (Mile 9)</div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgXS98nBicA8ml1W_U0kWAGSNdPuzKjKZ9wHGEneck9id2Duun9upFFu2OYtm4r3j3k_1wycpR6g1hDSYiKwdx2oTY9bRcfyg-wh1Uzk4pSkodjyiCMmA_Mvpaa-dmIsyFm6zZKOb2lwpgbMaCVbhDfYhI7jxImlSxDkUoeE255kzhFcVhdsG2Qha9_lTbS" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgXS98nBicA8ml1W_U0kWAGSNdPuzKjKZ9wHGEneck9id2Duun9upFFu2OYtm4r3j3k_1wycpR6g1hDSYiKwdx2oTY9bRcfyg-wh1Uzk4pSkodjyiCMmA_Mvpaa-dmIsyFm6zZKOb2lwpgbMaCVbhDfYhI7jxImlSxDkUoeE255kzhFcVhdsG2Qha9_lTbS=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Tunnel at mile 60</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEggkEM3GQyG2d_mIcOa_t5CvxWKS7_zBauiPJ-xYAepaBlADJ1XQiSCpZQkaaV31UwYlWnpkdcyQrKP7PIs6Q5MjkQ0XYsWnSbe2PayRDOp-zpyDNun8ayqFvfQ4T6t-hC-SwKnVsjFibjAvHLkr4o_R4oQZkA0Ty8OBzJuUuSLYfL-lIZlxe5oBFs60Zoa" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEggkEM3GQyG2d_mIcOa_t5CvxWKS7_zBauiPJ-xYAepaBlADJ1XQiSCpZQkaaV31UwYlWnpkdcyQrKP7PIs6Q5MjkQ0XYsWnSbe2PayRDOp-zpyDNun8ayqFvfQ4T6t-hC-SwKnVsjFibjAvHLkr4o_R4oQZkA0Ty8OBzJuUuSLYfL-lIZlxe5oBFs60Zoa=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Climbing Virginius Pass (Mile 70)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgP3dI_QGvs3KbKwiXbkQISZGd-AHZ9DgmH-bT9GM99qHCEf9wFs8Xu6zvAEb8LODkTot1zTdRfqOPmvzjbiiRq-BOgnxZmgKxzKVFTyMjReKB1K6_db6ymWpvCMc5TNySeow_Ph1efz08in9zApFHpZB2xRaTgSWmHGNtIbaajSovUBrpqfGMpeHs37CPr" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgP3dI_QGvs3KbKwiXbkQISZGd-AHZ9DgmH-bT9GM99qHCEf9wFs8Xu6zvAEb8LODkTot1zTdRfqOPmvzjbiiRq-BOgnxZmgKxzKVFTyMjReKB1K6_db6ymWpvCMc5TNySeow_Ph1efz08in9zApFHpZB2xRaTgSWmHGNtIbaajSovUBrpqfGMpeHs37CPr=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Coming in to Telluride (Mile 75)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg2tFqCnSVgWixw_3WE12Vs039lCCuIpIY0huCqLafvjYtOH4aiAqwZnZcCKV_e--kBkVohYfCeEpFKnhSItcVIzXwEJ8NwnzTkXiCyc3lLTmV_EzHabDX65gBs90OXZAZdGwduopjXOHc0rS5aF2_LzACQrLLo8UJ85Kh7CWPSBFa1gqjN_ae4JfjCyttl" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg2tFqCnSVgWixw_3WE12Vs039lCCuIpIY0huCqLafvjYtOH4aiAqwZnZcCKV_e--kBkVohYfCeEpFKnhSItcVIzXwEJ8NwnzTkXiCyc3lLTmV_EzHabDX65gBs90OXZAZdGwduopjXOHc0rS5aF2_LzACQrLLo8UJ85Kh7CWPSBFa1gqjN_ae4JfjCyttl=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Leaving Telluride</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg4WuBu0JqC7S99oXO--HMjsFXGlkatqx5IWWmeMuFtAoLQAHjyVSDFGz2RrWfHhKRH_PBfG5ZISpH3yjmhWcaxrepKcFR_btlZu08gyQ8dE2TA_9NiQokq_UBF-eJnncS-OqrJFcI0xXLaN_ZkXswSfi3IXwsWCEj_AMnwqD6IH4xocN4TRGofpwb4waRI" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg4WuBu0JqC7S99oXO--HMjsFXGlkatqx5IWWmeMuFtAoLQAHjyVSDFGz2RrWfHhKRH_PBfG5ZISpH3yjmhWcaxrepKcFR_btlZu08gyQ8dE2TA_9NiQokq_UBF-eJnncS-OqrJFcI0xXLaN_ZkXswSfi3IXwsWCEj_AMnwqD6IH4xocN4TRGofpwb4waRI=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A Hard-fought finish</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2XLassKB-oGDwsrYiyBtnImrld9LhDcTC1jK9zUAkiQJ6Y67eKtpt5K-_71plg5jRKeTnDizSFMdqc83G1j18JuyvH2GE3dvsMZI3dLx0yYcR2g-L_pT9YJvaxCrtncms9qrsht2UVViR8HihKFWGIkURrRsc8LLhRDa1U701LV38C0_pO_ca-OSYqvXM" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2XLassKB-oGDwsrYiyBtnImrld9LhDcTC1jK9zUAkiQJ6Y67eKtpt5K-_71plg5jRKeTnDizSFMdqc83G1j18JuyvH2GE3dvsMZI3dLx0yYcR2g-L_pT9YJvaxCrtncms9qrsht2UVViR8HihKFWGIkURrRsc8LLhRDa1U701LV38C0_pO_ca-OSYqvXM=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Relaying my story to Hardrock and Barkley Legend: Blake Wood</div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>A New Motorcycle!</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">Once back from Colorado another big development occurred. I decided to sell my small and very capable trail bike (my Honda CT 125), and replace it with a more traditional dual-sport bike. I went with a Honda CRF300L....but I specifically went with the "S" model as it offers riders a slightly lower seat height. My problem with dual sport bikes has always been their tall seat heights (I'm only 5'9" with a 32" inseam). The 300LS is low enough that I am able to flat-foot comfortably, and therefore control the bike with much more ease. This meant I now had a true trail-capable bike, that I was not nervous to ride, that I could fully control. Not long after I was headed off on countless trail adventures. I will link to a few videos below of some of those adventures.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBnLp8jD7Sw_Kg0r3l5Je2S1UzzpjtwVcZQD3INCwsgLeAW-NHqk1sft0cfBacs2ura4DsKEibKCH-dgIXOD5bRoLtGFTqaDleJzuciJx7Z_pcdT-yuxLRcTq3MR5kVzyUC4sEHaWuo1W5w0zmCvdkvDFGLNXEYxBfgnUj4qZ7C6Qxa0j0z2iMlsgfs3Cv" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBnLp8jD7Sw_Kg0r3l5Je2S1UzzpjtwVcZQD3INCwsgLeAW-NHqk1sft0cfBacs2ura4DsKEibKCH-dgIXOD5bRoLtGFTqaDleJzuciJx7Z_pcdT-yuxLRcTq3MR5kVzyUC4sEHaWuo1W5w0zmCvdkvDFGLNXEYxBfgnUj4qZ7C6Qxa0j0z2iMlsgfs3Cv=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Selling the Honda Trail 125</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNkQVih-o5mcc_GQtgM1sZB5qr7rCcm0KrTrZ2rqd7hIqLfit_P3t6QYvqeWWAryBrFYmQHkSGPBsAPhg_kg0XzWjWmpGm1Gvf4FqZrjTqE89Ljv53iKPZ7Gf94_Tm0FMi0wyQFm50lcTd9J6_TDe3Xr5VxTXdEceQAw2miiu9LPR1jW6q26lX4rG21HAe" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNkQVih-o5mcc_GQtgM1sZB5qr7rCcm0KrTrZ2rqd7hIqLfit_P3t6QYvqeWWAryBrFYmQHkSGPBsAPhg_kg0XzWjWmpGm1Gvf4FqZrjTqE89Ljv53iKPZ7Gf94_Tm0FMi0wyQFm50lcTd9J6_TDe3Xr5VxTXdEceQAw2miiu9LPR1jW6q26lX4rG21HAe=w400-h225" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Celebrating the new Honda CRF300LS</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hzZYuH4OXXQ" width="402" youtube-src-id="hzZYuH4OXXQ"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">New Bike Day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>End of Summer and the High Flagstaff Peaks</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">As the summer came to a close, and I began preparing for the start of the Fall semester, I snuck in a quick trip back to the East Coast to visit some family. I also got in a another Ultra at the Stagecoach 55k run just up the road from my house in Flagstaff.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Another larger-scope project that I focused on in the Fall was my quest to tag the "significant high peaks" of the Flagstaff Area. I keep a list of 27 peaks in the area that I've been slowly pecking away at but focused on more earnestly during the Fall. I managed to get out to Merriam Crater, Red Mountain, the White Horse Hills, and the Hochdoerffer Hills. I captured video footage from all of the these adventures which are linked below.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhlhPengfzZ0Kaj9Ac9HesjQteI56A3ttfO-CXsnU4HvFCGaFUUe6UKppg3_ECwqtSEyRRUr0pTOALwDom8QgtuAfOcolyV8blylKJbxioeDOSDWcVW-jgBFrm4oIs-g6aneZiWVtTqhuMqNHmkWinQSMHsdl1SV0zk677i6epKIGM-1Iig5WucVpAH27wq" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhlhPengfzZ0Kaj9Ac9HesjQteI56A3ttfO-CXsnU4HvFCGaFUUe6UKppg3_ECwqtSEyRRUr0pTOALwDom8QgtuAfOcolyV8blylKJbxioeDOSDWcVW-jgBFrm4oIs-g6aneZiWVtTqhuMqNHmkWinQSMHsdl1SV0zk677i6epKIGM-1Iig5WucVpAH27wq=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stagecoach 55k aid station</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6oCBcZUTEuU" width="416" youtube-src-id="6oCBcZUTEuU"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Red Mountain</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hGdvRZQxpbo" width="414" youtube-src-id="hGdvRZQxpbo"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Merriam Crater</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KOVQxtGT0qM" width="420" youtube-src-id="KOVQxtGT0qM"></iframe></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">White Horse Hills</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Evh0gVZ3row" width="419" youtube-src-id="Evh0gVZ3row"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;">Hochdoerffer/Hummingbird Hills</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Treks to Nowhere</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">One of my biggest adventures of 2023, was my journey to publish my first full book, <i>Treks to Nowhere. </i>I've been compiling posts on this website since 2006 and have been telling myself for years that I would eventually put a more formal collection together. In October of last year, after some consistent encouragement from friends, I finally made a commitment to get it done. Part of the way I kept myself motivated was to publish regular audio narratives from the collection in the form of a podcast series. This got me excited about each upcoming chapter. Despite this heightened motivation, it was still an arduous and tedious process. I went through months and months of endless editing and proofreading. I never thought I'd spend so much time re-learning rules of semi-colons and em-dashes. In late October, I finally finished the collection and had a proof sent to me through Amazon Direct Publishing. The first time I held that book in my hands, it was a surreal feeling. I've written my share of scientific papers that have been published in journals, but writing a book just feels different--over twenty years of planning and a lifetime of adventures, all combined into a single volume in my own hands. Simply indescribable.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I put out a quick video detailing the final days leading up to the publishing below.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://trekstonowhere.weebly.com">TREKS TO NOWHERE WEBSITE</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/treks-to-nowhere/id1648212644">TREKS TO NOWHERE PODCAST</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcXHa4MPA64dApXj-qcgu_DmsgjZHND44hO2b_d0Md8R60V51g25vrJbUBlkTH2tK8OM1_SHH0BU67njO3zxFAxAVXlOpFs5FzQtCa2SUGvICIpHmr5ZR8U24K1Ir5GSi-Y9TrDqL8CI6LkDimGvSrtTLuSwhiuFAK96Yj3yTwG8f7O7dvL2xee1UweBZE" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcXHa4MPA64dApXj-qcgu_DmsgjZHND44hO2b_d0Md8R60V51g25vrJbUBlkTH2tK8OM1_SHH0BU67njO3zxFAxAVXlOpFs5FzQtCa2SUGvICIpHmr5ZR8U24K1Ir5GSi-Y9TrDqL8CI6LkDimGvSrtTLuSwhiuFAK96Yj3yTwG8f7O7dvL2xee1UweBZE=w400-h301" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Treks to Nowhere gets published!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vwXHXME6H4o" width="400" youtube-src-id="vwXHXME6H4o"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Treks to Nowhere Video Update</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u>Some Final Adventures</u></div><div style="text-align: left;">In the final few months of the year, I had a smattering of final smaller adventures. These included a day-trip up to Navajo Nation to view a annular solar eclipse. While not as profound as a total eclipse, it was still incredible to witness (and only a 2 hour drive from home).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In October I went down to the Phoenix area to pace my good friend at the Javalina Hundred ultramarathon (as a way to pay her back for pacing me at Western States). We had a grand time running through the desert together.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In early November, I made my annual pilgrimage to Virginia to run the Mountain Masochist 50-miler with my Barkley Friends. This marked my 7th running of the event, and just like in 2022, I just barely squeaked out a sub-12 hour finish (11:55). It was really wonderful to again run 50 miles with my good friend Travis (who had also paced for me a few months prior at the Hardrock 100).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In November I also tried my best to reach the Geographic Center of Arizona...twice (falling short both times). Turns out, it is a really tricky spot to reach and will require some more intense preparation and planning.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Over Thanksgiving, C and I took a short trip out to Wrightwood, California to visit with family again. I always love going to this town as it was one of my favorite trail towns while hiking on the Pacific Crest Trail back in 2010. We had a wonderful holiday break, and I had enough time to squeeze in another summit of Mount. Baden-Powell.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In December, I ran one last ultramarathon, the Fat Ox 6-hour event. I ran this last year, and it was during the many loops on that course that I learned of my selection in both the Western States and Hardrock Lotteries. This year, I did not get selected for either lottery...which I was honestly relieved to learn. I think I just need a year off from both events.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The Fall semester came to a close, and I watched several of my Climate Science students walk at graduation and celebrate the completion of their MS program. I also graduated my first full research geology MS student. This was definitely a significant milestone for me as it was the first time that I had advised a student one-on-one, through an entire research program, on an NSF grant that was funded from a proposal that I wrote. It was also the first time I served as a chair at a defense. It was weird being on the other side of a defense, and it brought back some interesting memories from my own graduate school experience.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Speaking of research, I also made my annual pilgrimage to San Francisco for the large American Geophysical Union conference. I met up with several collaborators and hatched some interesting plans for some upcoming projects, that should include Antarctic field work!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And so we've made it up to this week. The holidays are here, and I'm in Florida meeting with family. I always end my long winter running break with a Christmas morning loop run around my small neighborhood that my mom lives in. This makes for a nice mental kick in the pants that I need to get back into shape.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And that's it. I'm grateful to have my family and my health...and to be able to continue exploring however I can. I have several plans in the works for next year as well that I hope to tackle, but nothing set in stone just yet. Some ideas I'm tossing around though include finally tackling a 200+ trail ultramarathon, knocking out at least one more 14er, riding the entirety of the Arizona Backcountry Discovery route, and perhaps even tackling a 1500-mile Saddlesore ride. I'm also planning a trip to Texas for the total solar eclipse, as well as a trip overseas to Spain and Morocco. As always, there's a chance I may be heading further south to the icy Antarctic, but nothing is official as of yet.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Thank you everyone for following along on my silly adventures. If I've learned anything over the past few decades of adventuring, it's to simply get out and explore...even if it's just in your own neighborhood. Don't let the days slip by. As cliché as it sounds, get out and see the world. Discover goofy places, and marvel at the many wonders that exist.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I look forward to another year full of silly and memorable adventures....<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgoodWQzBhcYxGeQ64kwKrmsoWXUoYqt-BZNW1Oy-wFlZ5hJTpjltWWdhJ9D7bt5a2oSb3ae1HkIn-mYZZ4xz0dsAaaCVCe1Lvk9j3u_ao4_n5Ws6WHrwUENdv6S3WDhzSfAxapwVwlGXoZorotceLjjQC1ZCaBSBcs-VMIytihBdplvcUTi-YY-wMZF4uq" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgoodWQzBhcYxGeQ64kwKrmsoWXUoYqt-BZNW1Oy-wFlZ5hJTpjltWWdhJ9D7bt5a2oSb3ae1HkIn-mYZZ4xz0dsAaaCVCe1Lvk9j3u_ao4_n5Ws6WHrwUENdv6S3WDhzSfAxapwVwlGXoZorotceLjjQC1ZCaBSBcs-VMIytihBdplvcUTi-YY-wMZF4uq=w320-h400" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Watching the eclipse with my doggo</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgon71nQG6TtmGQDWrp86PTee3dRBK7fOXJkbJ7Dpo2S7B6yHuz3KH5xGI8CNJV8Y9VM1U3LptgrBqVxuJADocJiN-MFMGtyj4W8hv3wD5JY8HuWB9aGmMbUILS8P4CokozKyBiqofanmxYk2llAhYSrowpwqdLUQDXYxVMIiavjyzypLNqMAVM7TMe9Yo6" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgon71nQG6TtmGQDWrp86PTee3dRBK7fOXJkbJ7Dpo2S7B6yHuz3KH5xGI8CNJV8Y9VM1U3LptgrBqVxuJADocJiN-MFMGtyj4W8hv3wD5JY8HuWB9aGmMbUILS8P4CokozKyBiqofanmxYk2llAhYSrowpwqdLUQDXYxVMIiavjyzypLNqMAVM7TMe9Yo6=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">More eclipse viewing!</div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEicA1qT92-lcVlFKAzmmEoMCger1gLgMkfTEiN4IHb9Z2GFmCHc3Rk29kDFB2peKvw1hQe9fjCS4covqnkxiy-5ioyR83hORtOR0xxBA1oyrcF7Fz3HSTygVQ8kgaWpn9-R9biwUPtayCc4zwAPLiCDtmGp8D344yVS_v8m0f4Tv0Jq50tMjHUzCUjVKd3b" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEicA1qT92-lcVlFKAzmmEoMCger1gLgMkfTEiN4IHb9Z2GFmCHc3Rk29kDFB2peKvw1hQe9fjCS4covqnkxiy-5ioyR83hORtOR0xxBA1oyrcF7Fz3HSTygVQ8kgaWpn9-R9biwUPtayCc4zwAPLiCDtmGp8D344yVS_v8m0f4Tv0Jq50tMjHUzCUjVKd3b=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Annular Totality!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjFg5yNvG-Ou-bil-7m29ywhv3hQ-rD73A_F2yhIsZC_3LgDbUqByXNoR2ifq6LF8HIxUp5Gt0i6hJLu07w5sMPRpeYigYcXBcW79ocMy4AYga0hdxswVZ96o27ausJ7Rj2xhSdB55RnuyNYdA3lTPygqAWJiU5OoqUH1kPZsT7iQig0yGtBe6r4LFnx7we" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjFg5yNvG-Ou-bil-7m29ywhv3hQ-rD73A_F2yhIsZC_3LgDbUqByXNoR2ifq6LF8HIxUp5Gt0i6hJLu07w5sMPRpeYigYcXBcW79ocMy4AYga0hdxswVZ96o27ausJ7Rj2xhSdB55RnuyNYdA3lTPygqAWJiU5OoqUH1kPZsT7iQig0yGtBe6r4LFnx7we=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My friend crushing her first trail 100-miler</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cVSN6kmH-F4" width="379" youtube-src-id="cVSN6kmH-F4"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of my (failed) attempts to the geographic center of AZ</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjudGdtzpbov0-mpjYjB-beh7b0aOm_XnwVvB4i4fBiYuK6QMl7l9jj3BW3EZn0rmqrOzdWpEQ3y4Wq0yG8YPegtpPiB_kcFfIRslHMGpKBdlYRg32q7LDedKffIVEikABeoC0Rl3CzGO2gmRhCDy3oQILfr3fuVcYf-xYv2VHixP-lJuUunNJmeahMHoLc" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjudGdtzpbov0-mpjYjB-beh7b0aOm_XnwVvB4i4fBiYuK6QMl7l9jj3BW3EZn0rmqrOzdWpEQ3y4Wq0yG8YPegtpPiB_kcFfIRslHMGpKBdlYRg32q7LDedKffIVEikABeoC0Rl3CzGO2gmRhCDy3oQILfr3fuVcYf-xYv2VHixP-lJuUunNJmeahMHoLc=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The gang at the Mountain Masochist start line</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVM1u9nsKLvrzW43SMzD0RawJXv_jWgK7Dbnj-jOel8dbcXFXcqljAVtMdXLmwwV97lebeSG7FlTVwZ1x-1EQDRIDtniK8K-IJwqi0YYeNm9X1ynfAmbMyBw9ueMg9rrdOVhP6Inr3PsY-utb3wuuVgPdweREQzKWE1ouxbnxawsHmVEEHRvXjL1h_PyuC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVM1u9nsKLvrzW43SMzD0RawJXv_jWgK7Dbnj-jOel8dbcXFXcqljAVtMdXLmwwV97lebeSG7FlTVwZ1x-1EQDRIDtniK8K-IJwqi0YYeNm9X1ynfAmbMyBw9ueMg9rrdOVhP6Inr3PsY-utb3wuuVgPdweREQzKWE1ouxbnxawsHmVEEHRvXjL1h_PyuC=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Running at my 7th Mountain Masochist 50-miler</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMr4RX7kZZXREMgCl89OB86OfLdZPUKh8FuseRZdwFD7r4BXxmOuIq0KXDWS_eHWPxa7aUcC-nZ90uZOT0jDbL1tMGoiAINd-q-W-2C9DLJulqkXxmD99Wdk3xaRoqHI42evqkEVZAYUmUQ4d-0ZmGMqIWZjoVquh-aqrKOdtywIspxJSgx0TFuvsrBZm-" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMr4RX7kZZXREMgCl89OB86OfLdZPUKh8FuseRZdwFD7r4BXxmOuIq0KXDWS_eHWPxa7aUcC-nZ90uZOT0jDbL1tMGoiAINd-q-W-2C9DLJulqkXxmD99Wdk3xaRoqHI42evqkEVZAYUmUQ4d-0ZmGMqIWZjoVquh-aqrKOdtywIspxJSgx0TFuvsrBZm-=w400-h301" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Summit of Mt. Baden-Powell</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWAceFMMmOCRZpiJDQLSUa2f1p2oPOZIbHHgLHwIWX6gITpnr_IXr8GAIuJ_wAk6SEcaLJp5GAPpnuhtXMa-G5Jz4rVkWZgtxCQk19RU_hn06nMUC4i-PXntf0gmjpCMkk504YNxQfO_3dLyiIY0VMIPgd5Zbnav6h_arvUvM3ox4YBdMGybqUI29XkbF-" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjWAceFMMmOCRZpiJDQLSUa2f1p2oPOZIbHHgLHwIWX6gITpnr_IXr8GAIuJ_wAk6SEcaLJp5GAPpnuhtXMa-G5Jz4rVkWZgtxCQk19RU_hn06nMUC4i-PXntf0gmjpCMkk504YNxQfO_3dLyiIY0VMIPgd5Zbnav6h_arvUvM3ox4YBdMGybqUI29XkbF-=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Summit of Mt. Baden-Powell</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaNqoIuhFinFq-Fy_rQDEn5ntR1F_bGGo464X5Fx3MXdbr_PxZMKGGKuVd3ADqVedlP5dGCgA2Z2iXK3_x-Jqi4oXQCurS4gBhpDWzqbUgouu_fOLvRn9KVeWUKkeEN4K1-6My-B6kLSJBFyM5ZN77sD4XMdxbyEOdxi7gfTC7G7qUX9MOXdTD8nYt_RXT" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaNqoIuhFinFq-Fy_rQDEn5ntR1F_bGGo464X5Fx3MXdbr_PxZMKGGKuVd3ADqVedlP5dGCgA2Z2iXK3_x-Jqi4oXQCurS4gBhpDWzqbUgouu_fOLvRn9KVeWUKkeEN4K1-6My-B6kLSJBFyM5ZN77sD4XMdxbyEOdxi7gfTC7G7qUX9MOXdTD8nYt_RXT=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My new 100-miler belt buckle display case!</div><div><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8a-upR2G-tsAhO2OJ0AzU1rz_qEzry6LoYdDLjc-dWB_9jO2HQ4-hCUcAF5EzO0lZc1dn9L5A63fPx8mbKELzrhLf9xWd-hdMtBPySnWsLbxRTqd2LfqgqidzCUpO4F1KApTwaW_TlW_wecmmrqGkgliyiZfDfevMZQvXR8k2M3UGJ3qXclfJxefEUVD0" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjitkO_BzJ1lrs6fpRSFIxCx2FM7lQUZOm3qFfyGIBMGqQaoClyojrd3gyxnGZK9x5nD9o68PGMTLe5NmXMJ-iS7khYRPZOqaSb-0YA8g6ULNbYVWBUlVCX5fPq2a4wWCl1fvnxe2Zd5pd4Jx_qA5K_D4uJf60fWHCLdtuewEgWcZHQ6J9fyiGyHBkqCC5d" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjitkO_BzJ1lrs6fpRSFIxCx2FM7lQUZOm3qFfyGIBMGqQaoClyojrd3gyxnGZK9x5nD9o68PGMTLe5NmXMJ-iS7khYRPZOqaSb-0YA8g6ULNbYVWBUlVCX5fPq2a4wWCl1fvnxe2Zd5pd4Jx_qA5K_D4uJf60fWHCLdtuewEgWcZHQ6J9fyiGyHBkqCC5d=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Christmas at home</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOOL09NReIZEk4Dvia4mHELBpwMVqtvqPxup82m6F0u3Wz1FItQJ_CoccgkMflIBhAvgrLhn_L6ALjvlwsX9DVjyjRxKoc4btHqthBo0bKJajVuX7O2mOApLpHfdCPRQ48R09i3UIe8U4D5_WfAJ8uziJv8jeIC9dDsMcHzFJd2FToRw2sV906woFhIMQa" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOOL09NReIZEk4Dvia4mHELBpwMVqtvqPxup82m6F0u3Wz1FItQJ_CoccgkMflIBhAvgrLhn_L6ALjvlwsX9DVjyjRxKoc4btHqthBo0bKJajVuX7O2mOApLpHfdCPRQ48R09i3UIe8U4D5_WfAJ8uziJv8jeIC9dDsMcHzFJd2FToRw2sV906woFhIMQa=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Eight new Climate science MS graduates!</div><br /><img alt="" data-original-height="3557" data-original-width="2503" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8a-upR2G-tsAhO2OJ0AzU1rz_qEzry6LoYdDLjc-dWB_9jO2HQ4-hCUcAF5EzO0lZc1dn9L5A63fPx8mbKELzrhLf9xWd-hdMtBPySnWsLbxRTqd2LfqgqidzCUpO4F1KApTwaW_TlW_wecmmrqGkgliyiZfDfevMZQvXR8k2M3UGJ3qXclfJxefEUVD0=w282-h400" width="282" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My first Glaciology/Geology MS graduate</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ASWhDOwnn572F3YjITkLn5xGDbBX18VhGPBzvobtJKr4hP0MJaK8VYA2ld0XoP54HfUxfUNzncOAeEDvCpcN70WE71P-mX7EmmGZAm_z5lxIw5E2VI7xo-Uiq0pkg6meMocVpoLX_lAwY1SM4vrP6Ng59C2rXq1yO617VFC9I4LeM87LHVJdMacK0gQK/s1620/Screenshot%202023-12-29%20at%2011.55.06%E2%80%AFAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1544" data-original-width="1620" height="381" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ASWhDOwnn572F3YjITkLn5xGDbBX18VhGPBzvobtJKr4hP0MJaK8VYA2ld0XoP54HfUxfUNzncOAeEDvCpcN70WE71P-mX7EmmGZAm_z5lxIw5E2VI7xo-Uiq0pkg6meMocVpoLX_lAwY1SM4vrP6Ng59C2rXq1yO617VFC9I4LeM87LHVJdMacK0gQK/w400-h381/Screenshot%202023-12-29%20at%2011.55.06%E2%80%AFAM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Annual Christmas Loops in florida</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oy_5zQ1mmsQ" width="397" youtube-src-id="oy_5zQ1mmsQ"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Some tentative plans for 2024</div></div></div></div></div><p></p>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-84574083473903999452023-10-06T02:33:00.014-04:002023-10-06T03:44:12.509-04:00Treks to Nowhere: Explorations of Unseen Geographic Oddities (Published!)<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWpSUveOXTSZrMUYQp66-0pJRu3NFiGnl3UwMIoqTDh0XybW-wo_Ny5Vudo3tuYul9DlxXpAv2VcrjdvLvsmo_edhKmtvaAWLdUVqHuozRnQWJUPygzMyXcSRqWZc-OCQlJlq2mKYVTkx_7Wl5somWUHWTOOyt-HZkIb_Da01dZAw6PkjUi5aa8h__nei/s1422/71tMuNy-OzL._SL1422_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1422" data-original-width="1000" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWpSUveOXTSZrMUYQp66-0pJRu3NFiGnl3UwMIoqTDh0XybW-wo_Ny5Vudo3tuYul9DlxXpAv2VcrjdvLvsmo_edhKmtvaAWLdUVqHuozRnQWJUPygzMyXcSRqWZc-OCQlJlq2mKYVTkx_7Wl5somWUHWTOOyt-HZkIb_Da01dZAw6PkjUi5aa8h__nei/w308-h438/71tMuNy-OzL._SL1422_.jpg" width="308" /></a></p><p style="text-align: left;">This web journal/blogger site began all the way back in 2006 with a post simply titled, "Updates." Over the subsequent 17+ years, I've continued to post about my various "wanderings and scribbles". Sometimes this was an entire summer's worth of daily posts from Pacific Crest Trail, sometimes it was a run report after completing a 100-mile mountain race, and sometimes it was about my adventures seeking out quirky geographic peculiarities or oddities. </p><p style="text-align: left;">What do all of these things have in common?</p><p style="text-align: left;">The simple answer is that they all represent a ceaseless need that I have to explore--particularly in remote places (hence the Melville quote on this site's banner). I'm not entirely sure if this need is something that came as a result of the circumstances surrounding my life between 2005 and 2007, or if it instead has been with me all along, and my experiences during those years simply woke it up. But, deep down, I do think I've always had some sort of need to wander and explore... </p><p style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #f6b26b;">"For as long as I have known, I have had an unyielding pull to the faraway, the remote, and the inaccessible. At my very core, I have an almost instinctual fascination with peculiar and often quirky locations and geographic oddities—places that presumably go unseen and unnoticed by most. Yet if I were asked why it is that I am so captivated by these otherwise strange and seemingly random points on a map, I am not sure I could give a sensible answer other than to say that I just am, and that I have always been."</span></i></p><p style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #f6b26b;">"So what exactly is that little voice in our heads—the one that whispers to us from beyond the map, compelling us to seek out and set foot on the hidden and secluded fragments of the world? What drives those of us with that insatiable need to wander, explore, and ultimately carry out treks to the faraway, the remote, and the inaccessible?"</span></i></p><p style="text-align: left;">...As to why these two passages are in quotations--well, it is simple: both passages are taken directly from my new written collection titled, <i>Treks to Nowhere: Explorations of Unseen Geographic Oddities.</i></p><p style="text-align: left;">It has taken me almost 20 years, and countless nudges from friends and family to actually turn these collections of web journal stories and random thoughts found on this wee-little bloggers site, into something more substantial--something I can literally hold in my hands.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Just two days ago, after over a year of editing, proof-reading, and refining, I finally clicked "submit" on the Amazon Publishing site for my collection. The proverbial finish line has been reached. Getting this collection together is something I'm incredibly proud of, and it many ways it felt like completing a dissertation. That finish line always just felt so far away. So, please join me in this celebration!</p><p style="text-align: left;">If you would like a copy of this collection, you can purchase it through Amazon directly at the following link in both paperback or hardcover editions. Making this collection available was never about making a profit, so for each edition, I will only make about 30 cents over the cost of the book (about 1% of each sale). The only reason I did this (and didn't simply set it to zero) was because I want to be able to donate 1% of every sale to charity. Both versions are printed in premium color using the heavier weight paper (meaning they are a bit more expensive that standard color). I felt it was more important to have higher quality over lower cost. </p><p style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">The link to purchase is here: <a href="https://amzn.to/46AJBrB">https://amzn.to/46AJBrB</a></span></b></p><p style="text-align: left;">You can also visit the Treks to Nowhere website here: <a href="http://www.trekstonowhere.com">www.trekstonowhere.com</a>. Through this website you can watch some narrated video versions of some of the chapters (via youtube). </p><p style="text-align: left;">Audio versions of many chapters are also available via podcast format here: <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/treks-to-nowhere/id1648212644">Treks to Nowhere Podcast</a></p><p style="text-align: left;">I won't drone on here, and simply end by again saying thank you to every one of you that encouraged me to work on this collection. I really like telling stories and sharing my adventures with all of you.</p><p style="text-align: left;">-John</p><p style="text-align: left;">FYI: Treks to Nowhere contains 36 chapters, each highlighting a unique geographic oddity. Featured locations include (to name a few):</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Mt. Wasilewski, Antarctica</li><li>Harding Point, Arizona</li><li>Tiny Island, Nunavut</li><li>Schoff's Rock, New York</li><li>Province Point, Vermont</li><li>Cape Bay Peninsula, Australia</li><li>Grímsey, Iceland</li><li>West Ruggedy Cave, New Zealand</li><li>Jesus Rock, Michigan</li><li>The NH/ME/QC Trifinium Point</li></ul><p></p><p></p>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-91267907992675204112023-08-26T13:40:00.021-04:002023-08-26T19:05:33.278-04:00Some Predictions for the Future of Academia<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzUNmNrHff8efP2dB5A0MIN8V-wHRdrdwU0WOWv0zih5pq37mnQK4wKFEt_yDtKxLSP8pxXHg3xWwWPuke1EDcA5IJcbrYHCcdzD1ZIMGzuiwYOg_7dwKGEtOWWC4rAUg0Nt5_vq47TtIM8I1Jc_XFcBv9x-TCoOPrblOjg8oLyCi150y-yHO91ubHXUt8/s1024/8ACBCBFF-33E2-4AFB-A4B8-78468D3A9274_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzUNmNrHff8efP2dB5A0MIN8V-wHRdrdwU0WOWv0zih5pq37mnQK4wKFEt_yDtKxLSP8pxXHg3xWwWPuke1EDcA5IJcbrYHCcdzD1ZIMGzuiwYOg_7dwKGEtOWWC4rAUg0Nt5_vq47TtIM8I1Jc_XFcBv9x-TCoOPrblOjg8oLyCi150y-yHO91ubHXUt8/w400-h300/8ACBCBFF-33E2-4AFB-A4B8-78468D3A9274_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Penn State summer geology field course in Utah</div><br />I am now beginning my fifth year as a full time faculty member at my university, and over these past four years I've experienced many changes at both the departmental and university levels. Certainly the COVID-19 pandemic wildly shifted the entire landscape of higher education, but in many ways I believe it really just sped up some changes and shifts that were already gathering steam.<p></p><div>Throughout my adult years, I have worked in a corporate environment, as a federal employee and researcher, and now as an academic (not including the years that I was toiling away in graduate school). I've seen and experienced just about every type of "workplace politics" imaginable. What I've seen is that most institutional changes are ubiquitous across career landscapes, and most are typically driven by changes in funding or costs. In other words, and as cliche as it sounds, most changes can be traced to "the money" (even if the institution is "not-for-profit").</div><div><br /></div><div>Over these past four years working for a university, I've directed a graduate program, worked across disciplines, collaborated internationally, sat on advisory boards, worked with university executives, deans, and provosts, and developed curricula. I've been a part of campus strategic planning meetings, regular department meetings, and met with hundreds of industry and academic professionals. I've participated in review panels or meetings where the distribution of large sums of money is decided. I've worked intimately with municipal governments, tribal representatives, community organizations, non-profits, start-ups, and billion-dollar companies. I've been on faculty hiring committees and worked with large external donors. I've contributed to city council meetings, state corporation commission meetings, and personally petitioned for policy changes at multiple governmental levels. I've spoken to just about every type of audience imaginable on the topics of climate science, climate change, and education. I've worked with countless governmental institutions, and guided dozens of students through their internship experiences. I've written over a hundred recommendation and reference letters, and also witnessed countless alumni still struggle to find gainful employment. I've written grant applications across institutions, and had many rejected. In short: I've learned A LOT about how the "engines" of industry and academia function and roll along. In many cases, I've seen that people have really good ideas, but are unable to realize them due to countless obstacles, lobbying, and red tape along the way. I've also seen that almost every student I've had come through my program has said that they want to make a difference. They are all motivated and eager to effect change. I have hope for the future, but I also know first hand just what they will all face along the way. It's an ultramarathon of politics, money, and obfuscation.</div><div><br /></div><div>It may sound like I'm sour...but please understand that the list that follows does not come from a place of cynicism or bitterness...but rather just from experiential observation (although I suppose there is a little bit of "gut instinct" baked in there as well). I'm curious to hear from my fellow academics (particularly those at different institutions) on how they feel about this list. Do you agree? Disagree? Do you see other major changes coming down the pike?</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">__________________________________________</div><div><br /></div><div>So now that I've been at my institution for several years, I wanted to make a few predictions about where I think the University experience is headed. I think some of these changes are relatively good, others are probably detrimental, and some are just inevitable regardless of their impacts. NOTE: these predictions are made through a lens of the graduate-level geosciences, but many are still university-level changes that I see coming...</div><div><br /></div><div>It will be interesting to look back on this list in 2030 to see if I was close at all, or if I am completely off base. I mostly just wanted to get these thoughts down on "paper." One disclaimer that is worth noting: I do think that universities with enormous endowments will probably be exempt from many of these changes (at least in the short term).</div><div><br /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Most (if not all) geoscience and geology programs will either be integrated into broader/interdisciplinary “earth systems” or “sustainability” programs, moved to online or professional programs, or just shuttered completely.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>There will be an incorporation of sustainability efforts and climate action plans into most campus strategic plans (and carbon neutrality goals by 2030/2040).</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>There will be an incorporation of climate science, resilience, adaptation, mitigation, and climate solutions into nearly all facets of academic programming and across disciplines and departments.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Universities will move to more centralization of administration, staff, IT, and travel, grants, etc.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>There will be a slow migration towards the outsourcing of necessary funding for programmatic and departmental essentials (i.e. field courses, field trips, project funding, programmatic essentials), to that of fundraising/donor or corporate sponsorship sources. The onus will be on departments to raise funds for their programs (as opposed to having university or state support). Think: "6-Week Summer Geology Field Course - made possible by Exxon"</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Universities will trend towards more NTT, soft-money, and “career track” faculty, with an eventual attrition of traditional tenure track faculty.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>“Career forward”, “career engine”, and career development initiatives that prioritize professional education for students over pure academic research.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>A move towards more tuition-focused initiatives (i.e., butts-in-seats, over research dollars).</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>A continued prioritization of business, pre-professional, and sports programs and infrastructure (over research-focused academic programs).</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Continual (and frankly unsustainable) increase of tuition costs, but with a re-organization of various program and course fees.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>A swing to a “teaching first” approach for most programs (and away from research) and as such, faculty workload shifts to at least 60% teaching.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>More administrative task will be transferred to faculty (like portions of grant management).</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Faculty contracts will eventually migrate to yearly contracts regardless of tenure status, with full yearly evaluations for contract renewal.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>More MS programs will move to tuition-based experiential professional MS programs that require internships, practicums, or other professional experiences, over traditional theses.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>More graduate programs will move to an online-only delivery or MOOCS, and will also have specific progressions plans for working professionals (I think this is a big one).</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Tuition waiver and teaching assistantship support will be pulled back for most graduate programs.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>More programs will move in the direction of micro-credentialing, certificate programs, badges, and training (or simply shorter, one-year graduate MS programs).</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Programs will move away from traditional 1-on-1 faculty/grad-student advising, to a multi-faculty approach (i.e. co-advising across programs for all grad students).</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Most new tenure track faculty lines will require the funding of an endowment (to cover part of the salary) for approval.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>University overhead (indirect) will generally trend to over 60% at most institutions.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>States will pull back more of their funding for state institutions, with the expectation of a shift to more tuition dollars.</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>With the advancement of technology like Gigapan, Lidar, and 3-D imagery...and to increase accessibility for all students, many field-based courses, trips, and campaigns will become entirely virtual (e.g., "virtual" field work or field camps)</li></ul><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>ChapGPT and other forms of AI will be widely incorporated into academic curricula and used by students for things like computer programming and statistics (...but also for cheating)</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>I wonder how many of these predictions might come to pass...and how many won't. I'm curious what other big changes may come over the next decade that I just haven't (or can't) anticipate. And for any fellow academics reading this, I'm curious what changes you see coming for your universities and respective departments...</div></div>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-50172560046600171612023-07-25T13:57:00.009-04:002023-07-25T19:28:08.578-04:00Breathe in the Air: 2023 Hardrock Hundred Run Report<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQTe47AzGL_i6Cp7qcRcW2Ye5YXkm6nDffzfPV1Wi7jOIFIEAN_SkfxSSce_cgxq3kJhvNKvSsvdjZOppz0t10KrjZfIGm6bjQ9t048xtnXrlXgkS_VBU50Muv6qsAbg_AopkHDCmqDoYuxkv6dftqwA9S_oPE_eRvf89jbr1rBgKuoOXEFZm3wnc01x6f/s4032/IMG_0493.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQTe47AzGL_i6Cp7qcRcW2Ye5YXkm6nDffzfPV1Wi7jOIFIEAN_SkfxSSce_cgxq3kJhvNKvSsvdjZOppz0t10KrjZfIGm6bjQ9t048xtnXrlXgkS_VBU50Muv6qsAbg_AopkHDCmqDoYuxkv6dftqwA9S_oPE_eRvf89jbr1rBgKuoOXEFZm3wnc01x6f/w300-h400/IMG_0493.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ascending to Kroger's Kanteen (Virginius Pass)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As a long distance runner and thru-hiker, there are many things that I foolishly take for granted. I assume that my legs will <i>just</i> turn over; I assume that my eyes will continue to <i>see</i> the trail in front of me; I assume that my lungs will continue to <i>breathe</i> in the air......</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">....And you see it's this last one that came at me and struck me down with such a fierce intensity, that I was not only unprepared for it...but I was truly terrified by it. Not being able to breathe....is a horrific feeling. I have a new-found empathy for the millions around the world with limited lung function...particularly those with asthma, long covid, emphysema, or other debilitating diseases. Never in my life have I felt like I was drowning....while out of the water, but that is the best way I can describe what transpired during the second-half of my Hardrock Run this year.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The <i>good</i> news, is that I sit here today (about 5 days later), and my breathing is returning, and my fatigue subsiding. I did ultimately complete my loop around the San Juan's (much slower than in 2018), and am truly content that it is all behind me now.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The <i>bad </i>news, is that I suffered from acute exercise-induced asthma that was brought on by extended exposure to very-dry and dusty high-altitude air. This asthma (which I've never experienced before, including in 2018 at Hardrock), led to fluid build-up in my longs - a type of pulmonary edema - which ultimately led to me gasping for air on every climb from mile 75 to the finish. I nearly passed out a dozen times, had continual tunnel vision, had to take several on-trail naps, and dry-heaved countless times due to coughing up fluid. The medics at mile 95 talked about pulling me, but I insisted I'd be ok given the course was all downhill from there. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am lucky that it wasn't worse. I made some stupid decisions. BUT...I was also not alone. My friend and fellow Barkley finisher, Travis Wildeboer, paced me from mile 60 (Ouray) to the finish and knowing he was with me (and is an EMT), made me feel much safer. If I were alone, I very-likely would have dropped. I thought a lot about my partner C, and my family, and how there were many times I should have quit...and was worried they'd be so furious with me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The takeaway from all of this for me is quite simple. I am getting old. I can't do the things I used to anymore, and I'm ok with that. I am also going to take a break from hammering out multiple big ultras back-to-back. Running will always be there for me, but it will necessarily have to ease back a bit.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As far as my future with Hardrock. I will say this: I have now done the course in both directions. This apparently makes me a "True Hardrocker". With that said, I think it may be time for me to step aside. I will likely continue to volunteer my time at an aid station, but I suspect my days of running the course are over. One of the things I realized while out on the course and struggling to breathe, was just how much fun I had with C and our doggo in the week leading up to the race. We explored all over the San Juans, camped in the Maroon Bells, and simply enjoyed our time together. I kept thinking about how much I just wanted to be back in my tent on the shores of Crater Lake in the Maroon Bells, goofing off with my doggo and cooking a silly freeze-dried meal on our camp stove. I think the next time I head to the San Juans, it will be for much less selfish reasons...and if I am to hike over Grant's Swamp Pass again to see that indescribable image of Island Lake come into view, it will be with my family...not as a runner in a race.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One last note before diving into the full report, is that I have to thank my partner C for all the she did for me, and continues to do for me every day. She drove to remote aid stations to crew for me, while also taking care of our dog. She cooked me fresh chili on the side of the road with a tiny camp stove, just so I'd have "real food", and she took care of everything after the race while I was a useless lump in the hotel room. I have never felt so selfish in my life as I did this past weekend. I am incredibly lucky and grateful to have you in my life C.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">...And also Travis. I am sorry you had to wait so much for my slow ass...but I am eternally grateful that you were there with me during those terrifying moments when I was unable to breathe. Having you as a pacer and as a friend is worth more than you know.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I know, I know....enough with the sappy stuff right? On to the report...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u>Pre-Race Revelry</u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As with my 2018 running at Hardrock, C and I decided to treat my acceptance into the race as an excuse to have a mini-vacation to the San Juans. I always feel terribly guilty about "race-cations", but was hopeful we could truly enjoy ourselves without it being ALL about Hardrock. Back in February, I managed to snag a permit for a campsite at the wildly popular Maroon Bells....so we started with that on the calendar. Otherwise, it was an open agenda. Something we would be trying out on this multi-day trip for the first time, was that we would be bringing our dog with us. We wanted to see how she'd do in the big mountains...and with camping (spoiler alert....she maybe got a C+)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When we left Flagstaff, we had several days to fill before heading to the Maroon Bells. I suggested we head to the Lizard Head Wildnerness area as it offers high altitude along with areas that are not very popular. This meant we wouldn't have to contend with big crowds, or fight for campsites. So, on our first night, we headed to the Kilpacker trailhead for the Wilson and El Diente (14ers) Peaks. I had hiked these peaks back in 2018 from the same trailhead and remembered it being quite remote and quiet. Sure enough, when we rolled in, there were only two other cars camped at the trailhead. We set up our little camp just over 10,200 feet, and watched the sunset. We learned quickly that given the high snow year Colorado experienced, there were MONUMENTAL numbers of mosquitos to fight off. Needless to say we were both caked in DEET.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our original plan the next day was to spend only one night at this site, but we enjoyed the solitude so much, we chose to just stay for two. The next day, rather than pack up our camp, we hiked up the Kilpacker Trail into the inner basin for Wilson and El Diente peaks...and had a picnic at about around 11,500 feet elevation. The rest of the day was all about taking it easy and tapering. We went back to our camp, and essentially veg'ed out the rest of the day, laying in our hammock, taking naps, and playing with the dog. It was glorious.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On the second morning, we did pack up early and starting making our way up towards the Aspen area. We wanted to set up our next camp so that we could pack up early in two days, and make it into the Maroon Bells before 8:00 am. Cars are not allowed to drive up after 8:00 am, and we had a parking pass....so absolutely could not be late.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What we found was a perfect little spot just beyond Independence Pass that sat at about 10,500 feet. It was truly a secret spot and we again had no neighbors. The next day we played around at the pass (12,000 feet), and even hiked up to a high point ridge just under 13,000 feet for our lunch break. We were spending a lot of time over 10,000 feet, and I wasn't noticing any effects. Living in Flagstaff has certainly helped me acclimate quicker to high altitude.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After two nights in our secret spot, we packed up very-early the second morning, drove through the wildly overpriced town of Aspen, and made it up into the Maroon Bells well before 8:00. We packed up our backpacks, leashed up the dog, and began the 2-mile hike up to our reserved campsite at Crater Lake. As soon as we crested the hill overlooking the lake, I knew precisely why the Maroon Bells are so popular. The views are simply indescribable...and some of the most beautiful of any mountain area in Colorado or the Rockies. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We had our camp set up by 8:00 am, and then I proceeded to selfishly get in one last training session before the race. While C relaxed and hung out at the camp, I immediately set out to summit Maroon Peak (my 54th 14er). Originally, I had planned to try at least two 14ers in the Bells, but after how the hike up Maroon Peak went, I opted to call it quits after just one.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The hike up Maroon Peak was arduous due to its continuous class 3 rating, but also due to abundant snow on the route. The final mile of the ascent up along the ridge is very-difficult class 3 (with a handful of class 4 pitches) and was painfully slow. It took me over 8 hours to complete the full out-n-back, all while C waited patiently for me at camp, worrying why it was taking me so long. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I did finally get back from the successful summit, I apologized profusely, and vowed to not hike another peak. We spent the rest of the day, and half of the following day, just lounging around Crater Lake with the dog. Looking back, that second morning was probably my favorite part of the entire trip and it made me somewhat angry with myself for spending so much time summiting Maroon Peak, when I could have been spending more time simply lounging around the lake.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We hiked back down to our car after lunch and were fully loaded by early afternoon. Our plan for that evening was to drive as close to Silverton as possible, but also trying to still stay above 10,000 feet. We decided to aim for Red Mountain Pass (11,000), and see if we could find a stealth camp spot. Sure enough, just as we crested the pass we found small dirt road that lead to an isolated camp spot. We set up our kit, and were lounging back before dark, cooking a fantastic veggie stir fry. That night I woke with a terrible stomach ache and worried that I picked up a bug. But by morning, most of the discomfort had thankfully subsided.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We drove into Silverton, and our collective mindsets shifted entirely to that of Hardrock. We checked into our hotel, I sorted by drop bags, and I checked in officially as a runner (receiving my wrist-band). The following day, I attended all of the required runner briefings and mentally prepared for the 6:00 am start on Friday. The last thing I remember telling C was, "This race is one that truly scares me. It's just so damn hard".</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2XMvxDBIpgkiWn-NXXTM8DPVmIbz6upACnc1oXI1yww29BrVi0G0cq9PmHgCwOj6MOkL_krLuh0Q6TChtjt2g81qTZCmcFfWt9wW2E2ia_A2c9plqxWQ073kXPbCW2_EDQQQCql9g5cIOz13QxCVxs8hVh5O8wzWnLWBj5ZRc6Rq73JVLmGvDaoWzfkgD" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2XMvxDBIpgkiWn-NXXTM8DPVmIbz6upACnc1oXI1yww29BrVi0G0cq9PmHgCwOj6MOkL_krLuh0Q6TChtjt2g81qTZCmcFfWt9wW2E2ia_A2c9plqxWQ073kXPbCW2_EDQQQCql9g5cIOz13QxCVxs8hVh5O8wzWnLWBj5ZRc6Rq73JVLmGvDaoWzfkgD=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">View from Independence Pass</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi3OY8oYU6cT0tKlrMdsX5VcXIjcn1XY04DnjCTZ4uRY4Y1vYyFdR3k8YQqqKDaa5JjdhPMtTJpDJp3Ii2DG0XM48tX0PyOpV-8PDSPGU5k5BInykTTzhKoyjEyCLpioCuCEhseAA8qo9XQSf6N8WQ1a1Z5UMHU7O1lQtW9lppY4eLJu98gzWTRjKiuNZ3P" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi3OY8oYU6cT0tKlrMdsX5VcXIjcn1XY04DnjCTZ4uRY4Y1vYyFdR3k8YQqqKDaa5JjdhPMtTJpDJp3Ii2DG0XM48tX0PyOpV-8PDSPGU5k5BInykTTzhKoyjEyCLpioCuCEhseAA8qo9XQSf6N8WQ1a1Z5UMHU7O1lQtW9lppY4eLJu98gzWTRjKiuNZ3P=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">View from our first campsite</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhGXqpjJG6VlK0RE6PNS0x7Z_xWmbyUVx1s2H5Szw6XOKcfoQQ3GHtEReQ4j6OwMrcRkpIhBaHAbOiOK1DTeeMmgDtH0osQb2ha8LcHJ8DLR51xb28VNwZfNE93tHnKfwNeiXXOaXUYGm7aCyAe4cBNf_t2nzD-ye1cUg_figBC_LIgXTcCRLV1NgCLS3bT" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhGXqpjJG6VlK0RE6PNS0x7Z_xWmbyUVx1s2H5Szw6XOKcfoQQ3GHtEReQ4j6OwMrcRkpIhBaHAbOiOK1DTeeMmgDtH0osQb2ha8LcHJ8DLR51xb28VNwZfNE93tHnKfwNeiXXOaXUYGm7aCyAe4cBNf_t2nzD-ye1cUg_figBC_LIgXTcCRLV1NgCLS3bT=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Reflection shot from the Maroon Bells</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">(Maroon Peak in Center)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-F9yh_fq1IIzvsABayatR0lgBhFpmpbVLae1TZDLgvGd5gR5doU34wH_AqqoI2NUYo_HLC0-EITWzOeheD4oUksKIM5PpScs0ghHR5UwWkyPTr2bbTDtJN79kn02qpUOy-1cjuHd42BkCOKWGU-_xoSYvmODoNL4amaVNfqs-CRmm1ef8DVQtnt-Xq7YK" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-F9yh_fq1IIzvsABayatR0lgBhFpmpbVLae1TZDLgvGd5gR5doU34wH_AqqoI2NUYo_HLC0-EITWzOeheD4oUksKIM5PpScs0ghHR5UwWkyPTr2bbTDtJN79kn02qpUOy-1cjuHd42BkCOKWGU-_xoSYvmODoNL4amaVNfqs-CRmm1ef8DVQtnt-Xq7YK=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Doggo in the mountains...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe49oHw58XE__kWNOHxhbaPUsh5ehaZpk0DTbUxAcbnQX9SwV4Hi63C66mKjGot7X36U3Jzdn3Tp7aMJEe58K1FbskH4qaR7-3PmxiQk4_zDaWU00L8A7orO7n1WcVkpdst011OwUz6XMy5c16NniCSIYIIkFOs7q5y_kE-jCgiNwRUJH3A-oc5tfWyV98" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhe49oHw58XE__kWNOHxhbaPUsh5ehaZpk0DTbUxAcbnQX9SwV4Hi63C66mKjGot7X36U3Jzdn3Tp7aMJEe58K1FbskH4qaR7-3PmxiQk4_zDaWU00L8A7orO7n1WcVkpdst011OwUz6XMy5c16NniCSIYIIkFOs7q5y_kE-jCgiNwRUJH3A-oc5tfWyV98=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Very tired doggo in the mountains....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgt7xcajiDZhFVdBmo6EAE2Lxn2NW-MmLmjyeHCAGLSNdjJ2SC1D7QbAhjb4gZezU0RAatlCZcN8TPonuQKFrAt-T3mjbWZp9tmBd8UZ1YpSlDN78ihN9fLkJhUGae9Evi4wYmXkri1uw2IIociUOCjySC9__psr7_8P8eMhlKz79Oc4maOZ7r52E04tODa" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgt7xcajiDZhFVdBmo6EAE2Lxn2NW-MmLmjyeHCAGLSNdjJ2SC1D7QbAhjb4gZezU0RAatlCZcN8TPonuQKFrAt-T3mjbWZp9tmBd8UZ1YpSlDN78ihN9fLkJhUGae9Evi4wYmXkri1uw2IIociUOCjySC9__psr7_8P8eMhlKz79Oc4maOZ7r52E04tODa=w400-h301" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">On the Summit of Maroon Peak</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJTrULjX2dxfsu0MvEzV3TTX_QFDv73n8BP4WaMPGnMh03NqO4tWTXwSdR-JrEfh8nP3GR4C6XC6VH0G6HHjFQia-FXbvIXZ0CU5w-AKSuSXy_JoqhYA7GekLamFM3rnww50JTh774EklLKcIMRzqjXVPI2hYSrF-9PHdkrvtDy8SLhtldQtbsmQKGr9e7" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJTrULjX2dxfsu0MvEzV3TTX_QFDv73n8BP4WaMPGnMh03NqO4tWTXwSdR-JrEfh8nP3GR4C6XC6VH0G6HHjFQia-FXbvIXZ0CU5w-AKSuSXy_JoqhYA7GekLamFM3rnww50JTh774EklLKcIMRzqjXVPI2hYSrF-9PHdkrvtDy8SLhtldQtbsmQKGr9e7=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">A pair of ducks in the Maroon Bells wilderness</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj3weNT3pNYXe8HrltZomq3fyQF2lBH0OBz3qppKUKQWqx4Fee03sTgI3dB4jkwOMYvWEVZ6t-ogk1OhrQMiHEMCNMs_2SEJiyQw6Q1ZjlitJseRAc-quCe6rj0hUq6Ber6GQgDkVok5UEBaa1lU7aprzn2EAK7y8thzQGzhS_gJPlewdoNz3oxh3ZRQMUK" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj3weNT3pNYXe8HrltZomq3fyQF2lBH0OBz3qppKUKQWqx4Fee03sTgI3dB4jkwOMYvWEVZ6t-ogk1OhrQMiHEMCNMs_2SEJiyQw6Q1ZjlitJseRAc-quCe6rj0hUq6Ber6GQgDkVok5UEBaa1lU7aprzn2EAK7y8thzQGzhS_gJPlewdoNz3oxh3ZRQMUK=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Campsite at Red Mountain Pass</div></div><div><br /></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u>The Run Report:</u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At 5:30 am on Friday, I checked in at the start line and waited nervously for the next 30 minutes for the run to start. I was full of anxiety given the course briefing I had received the following day. I knew there'd be a LOT of snow on the course, many difficult sections, and extremely hot/dry conditions (with no monsoon rains expected). Spending what would likely be two full days baking under a high-altitude sun is an awful thought for me. I much prefer overcast or rainy conditions (despite the risk of lightning).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQI3PetQA_kRlSWPFk4tq_egd8Yvus-UIWw9FqjfmQr-UwR82Xv8eAcsqGVJ70J_S-E-e2Ik0utIoH4IhGGyPIIr-goiLLh4tmVKNtM2kLxuv7YNoUAt_FnmN1gxOi0M9O0gzQYTKGWTtLZ8DeyyAE5P0TanXy8trVOWODLnoK68vKHHQS-3jKVRmP7SLr" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQI3PetQA_kRlSWPFk4tq_egd8Yvus-UIWw9FqjfmQr-UwR82Xv8eAcsqGVJ70J_S-E-e2Ik0utIoH4IhGGyPIIr-goiLLh4tmVKNtM2kLxuv7YNoUAt_FnmN1gxOi0M9O0gzQYTKGWTtLZ8DeyyAE5P0TanXy8trVOWODLnoK68vKHHQS-3jKVRmP7SLr=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The start/finish line</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhaGTut6ReZy4K6F20z9ykn9vL8GHE-teAlUJMA5QAXUTy5aN3oJmDxkA-vFGzg3Hj_M7Kf29ELlhXbFPRfwDCx57b_rDRVgQYSO75X5kxuNN5mBOrhpsUtv1Bk7aH2yST7mbP33zqfYM8zxeIJbaIDdCJtW4uTDZ5PgGXa5a64H6LeZxBEwRL8VxaELx8m" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhaGTut6ReZy4K6F20z9ykn9vL8GHE-teAlUJMA5QAXUTy5aN3oJmDxkA-vFGzg3Hj_M7Kf29ELlhXbFPRfwDCx57b_rDRVgQYSO75X5kxuNN5mBOrhpsUtv1Bk7aH2yST7mbP33zqfYM8zxeIJbaIDdCJtW4uTDZ5PgGXa5a64H6LeZxBEwRL8VxaELx8m=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Checking in on race morning (5:30 am)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjCGBa9X2O6Kecrx62I8W5uPlTRyPScpF4gqdz6TPCp_I0P5nLz-e-FT11HX0QAEb9h0OslYZhpLlO2oW5lsD7nTi_LQWgB9mU8gONvRrERLyNPtZCoXzU6AGjJtfAWuF5HAbhJ1VjS1q1Ydh0G1zoPwjtJ39EK_aE9Dn4T7WlXc9p6PBSxNp8l3RhRbdtA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjCGBa9X2O6Kecrx62I8W5uPlTRyPScpF4gqdz6TPCp_I0P5nLz-e-FT11HX0QAEb9h0OslYZhpLlO2oW5lsD7nTi_LQWgB9mU8gONvRrERLyNPtZCoXzU6AGjJtfAWuF5HAbhJ1VjS1q1Ydh0G1zoPwjtJ39EK_aE9Dn4T7WlXc9p6PBSxNp8l3RhRbdtA=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My gear set up...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjoXDOnSKuKN8a6XBj3EpQbC6ggNLp6-QRe9HE3fwkBjjbb-EugOVCxLwCAjunaLubO6dEL8zOtQX0JjXOgzYRf1xhIXYqB0kpRWrzmyB_1JNa13neKOmo4gOWSCTj390sZhJQRAgz52I8JWlDIWTbxfoi1QApF2jN4CuY2BekoT8lk99o0li7Ccr9Pncf5" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjoXDOnSKuKN8a6XBj3EpQbC6ggNLp6-QRe9HE3fwkBjjbb-EugOVCxLwCAjunaLubO6dEL8zOtQX0JjXOgzYRf1xhIXYqB0kpRWrzmyB_1JNa13neKOmo4gOWSCTj390sZhJQRAgz52I8JWlDIWTbxfoi1QApF2jN4CuY2BekoT8lk99o0li7Ccr9Pncf5=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At the start...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjmExxYESfaBunqflOtdLzB8p5hioashVScmIalG-R8qSC2V9GiUfFtj-HQ1-ElZgEHki1LBoywqXhUU5rGCtXsD4OA-5zBSvi3ZuJRWL79IyWIyWpAPLR3ehgTLwMZAKcksYurmgcsjuzCL6OrP-w3dqIcyhZRmQ9VDYkWxUSuVtwfoQgwkFeC68ks3B-D" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjmExxYESfaBunqflOtdLzB8p5hioashVScmIalG-R8qSC2V9GiUfFtj-HQ1-ElZgEHki1LBoywqXhUU5rGCtXsD4OA-5zBSvi3ZuJRWL79IyWIyWpAPLR3ehgTLwMZAKcksYurmgcsjuzCL6OrP-w3dqIcyhZRmQ9VDYkWxUSuVtwfoQgwkFeC68ks3B-D=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Deep in thought...just moments before the start</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hugged C, stood quietly for the final two minutes going through my routine, and then we were off! We trotted down the road for the first mile before moving into the woods on a couple miles of single track. I remembered going through these sections in the dark during my final miles in 2018, and it brought a smile to my face. Just 98 miles to go I thought! We eventually popped out onto a rough forest road, and began what would be a 4000+ foot climb up to the first pass (Little Giant). I was feeling good and fresh, and carefully pushed out a steady hiking pace of about 3 mph. I carried on several conversations with other runners and very quickly I was on the final 1000 foot climb on single track up to the pass. I was surprised at how quickly the first climb had gone and starting thinking that perhaps the course would be gentler than I remembered!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I crested the top at 13,000 feet feeling good and began an easy jog down the back side to the first aid station at Cunningham (Mile 9). Despite its proximity to town, C had agreed to drive over and cheer me on there since she wouldn't get to see me again until Animas Forks at mile 44 many hours later.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I made it to the aid station feeling great in about 2 hours and 45 minutes. I was doing well and was all smiles when I saw C. I filled my bottles quickly, put down some calories, walked up the road with her for a hundred yards, and then began the next climb out of the station (I spent less than 2 minutes at the aid station). I felt bad that I only got to spend time with C for a couple minutes, but we both knew it was early and I should bank as much time as I could.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfcvArQQIoGzCL1yrpMPL28k38P2V8b6we2mvjHE4h3SFVNA26KoP9Phz9dbV-xdENWHNyWooVUPYc6TghSfonf2kswnzj5F8oOJt39GoyQsbu8y2jOiHOt3LyD6uzQ3ww63wgSfuCnp9uBFuh2B4n59IyDCEOEPWc1ghO8kQOWPnbVHi7ux8zHVjxu7zV" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="559" data-original-width="745" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhfcvArQQIoGzCL1yrpMPL28k38P2V8b6we2mvjHE4h3SFVNA26KoP9Phz9dbV-xdENWHNyWooVUPYc6TghSfonf2kswnzj5F8oOJt39GoyQsbu8y2jOiHOt3LyD6uzQ3ww63wgSfuCnp9uBFuh2B4n59IyDCEOEPWc1ghO8kQOWPnbVHi7ux8zHVjxu7zV=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Coming in to Cunningham all smiles</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxcqZFxkpaFGr51onRRIuOvkF9Yg2BHXMLMlxaZ44LCXRDOIDFV_d7YHiLkQoZyHsz0ib_3i6S0hm20I5moVkb4tv7HD1ZlQ5SWGWtDdD3x1WtTtK-I3EsUG68IyRyo3vfB2EUNCutGDjAtfLcI3qH02tlVNFO3QcVWSGxoH8h2reX2wTE8i1NteSfk_Wi" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxcqZFxkpaFGr51onRRIuOvkF9Yg2BHXMLMlxaZ44LCXRDOIDFV_d7YHiLkQoZyHsz0ib_3i6S0hm20I5moVkb4tv7HD1ZlQ5SWGWtDdD3x1WtTtK-I3EsUG68IyRyo3vfB2EUNCutGDjAtfLcI3qH02tlVNFO3QcVWSGxoH8h2reX2wTE8i1NteSfk_Wi=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Leaving Cunningham...eating...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUqU1ztW4ropN-qRRSWxwaw5MymyqkDozMjs1SP4UIR6qgyoOm_glQQCZvhT9lXEDGYy99NlCx7Epvi9gA_cvD-QI9pZf6utK7gnT8wYDzWt8T1oSMIpMz5eftqMhDNeDe1njkIkGxqvd96NRJ30VZZXI_2_BsD3oQz6sW07jZyo7J6_K9qwaBfhv5IxGe" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUqU1ztW4ropN-qRRSWxwaw5MymyqkDozMjs1SP4UIR6qgyoOm_glQQCZvhT9lXEDGYy99NlCx7Epvi9gA_cvD-QI9pZf6utK7gnT8wYDzWt8T1oSMIpMz5eftqMhDNeDe1njkIkGxqvd96NRJ30VZZXI_2_BsD3oQz6sW07jZyo7J6_K9qwaBfhv5IxGe=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Starting up the 4000+ foot climb after Cunningham</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUdokG6wFk3aMPdNPL_xA5BMfLKAxDEok0Kk7tua8NCQPfH1qX27rC4jxwBWP0yQNAt-XL6swfN7iM_FXPUJuxXpcEMrAPg-9dixVqce4hXqDOigoCTKpsloMb8kcu2O11Z0I0oe6RXuUIQCIvNegsFdCPAoHYTE-RroARk1MptxflX11pAabcKswzpXfY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUdokG6wFk3aMPdNPL_xA5BMfLKAxDEok0Kk7tua8NCQPfH1qX27rC4jxwBWP0yQNAt-XL6swfN7iM_FXPUJuxXpcEMrAPg-9dixVqce4hXqDOigoCTKpsloMb8kcu2O11Z0I0oe6RXuUIQCIvNegsFdCPAoHYTE-RroARk1MptxflX11pAabcKswzpXfY=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Heading up the mountain...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjCgsARG4i6xZFKRiD_gRBwRqV9OYA1cNt0NnhWk-4AA8Mblx9PjdK5y8A0YODInCukwMTCbyT58J81GTi5JJhiv9tG5jIrQUVtLwfkaPkaFHOs3wtZofNJuVxsDQyG8Ox1_Pqsl8ulBtmfJG5klvolTJosI1pizbRUz8hnLd98ifgiPYUhmRYh_nW7mjXG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjCgsARG4i6xZFKRiD_gRBwRqV9OYA1cNt0NnhWk-4AA8Mblx9PjdK5y8A0YODInCukwMTCbyT58J81GTi5JJhiv9tG5jIrQUVtLwfkaPkaFHOs3wtZofNJuVxsDQyG8Ox1_Pqsl8ulBtmfJG5klvolTJosI1pizbRUz8hnLd98ifgiPYUhmRYh_nW7mjXG=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">View of the second climb up from Cunningham. I'm up there somewhere...</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The sun had fully risen at this point, and it was already getting noticeably warmer. The climb up to Stony Pass was tough and quite drawn out. There were countless switchbacks and it eventually dawned on me that the climbs along the course were not going to be easy after all. I climbed for over two hours before finally topping out on Stony Pass. At this point in the run though, I was still climbing strongly, and able to keep a steady pace. There was no indication that I would have any sort of debilitating breathing issues later in the race.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There was a small crowd on top of the pass that cheered us on, lifting my spirits, and I made quick work down and up to the subsequent pass (the second highest point on the course). Within an hour I was descending to the Maggie Gulch aid station where I spent about five minutes resting and putting down some much needed calories. The next stretch (Pole Creek and Cataract Lake), while considerably more mild, was also quite long and would be tackled during the hottest part of the day. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">From Maggie to Pole Creek, I moved well and had a genuine smile on my face. I was out on the Hardrock course, and far enough in that I felt like it was finally a reality. I was on cloud nine....soaking it in. I hit Pole Creek all smiles, gobbled up some food and worked my way around a reroute just after. It's important to note at this point that I had already crossed well over a dozen full creek/river crossings. My feet hadn't been consistently dry on the course since the first 2 miles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The climb up to Cataract lake was a bit slow, but eventually I rolled over the top and dropped somewhat quickly down to the first major aid station at Sherman (Mile 30). At Sherman, there were dozens of runners sitting in the shade with cold/wet towels. It was brutally hot. I got a full shower of ice water and it was glorious. I ate a couple of freeze pops, and drank a full slushy gatorade. This was the most refreshing drink of the entire race. I rummaged through my drop bag and restocked as well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Fully renewed, I left the aid knowing a monumental challenge loomed ahead: Handies Peak. I knew that the first several miles of this climb would be on a dirt road however, so it settled my mind some. Climbing a road is always easier than a steep single track. The problem was that given the time of day (mid afternoon), and that it was a Saturday, there were hundreds of dune-buggy style side-by-side vehicles constantly zipping by on the road, kicking up dust. I did my best to keep my buff over my face, but inhaling all of this dust was likely what initially triggered my acute asthma response. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I passed by the Burrows aid on the road and eventually peeled off onto trail that would ultimately head up to the Handies Summit over 14,000 feet. It was near the top of this climb that I first noticed mild breathing issues. In the final thousand feet before the summit, I was stopping much more frequently to catch my breath and take breaks. I just figured it was because of the altitude, but was also confused as I hadn't had any issues yet with elevation (or when I climbed Maroon a few days prior). I shrugged it off and did eventually top out on the summit about an hour before sunset.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Leaving Handies, I felt good knowing that I would never have to climb to these elevations again and the highest point was now behind me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I made quick work down around the American Basin, filling up my water bottles on some fresh snow melt...and then topped out on the adjacent pass just as the sun was setting. I stopped briefly to admire, before plunging quickly down to Grouse Gulch. I knew C would be waiting at Animas Forks just up the road at mile 44 and I was eager to see her. I made it off the trail at Grouse (a few miles down-road from Animas), just as I had to switch on my headlamp. As I hiked up the road to Animas, I was again presented with dozens of crew vehicles driving by kicking up fresh dust. My headlamp really illuminated just how much dust I was truly inhaling into my lungs.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Less than 40 minutes later, and just after dark, I arrived at Animas to find C waiting for me, all set up with a chair, and with freshly cooked chili. I was noticeably tired and all I wanted to do was sit...but I knew I had a long night ahead of me climbing up and over Engineer Pass and down into Ouray. I spent about 10 minutes again putting down much-needed calories, and did take a long-overdue sitting break in our chair. It was magnificent. Eventually, after some cajoling, I waddled my way down to the station and informed them that I was heading out. C walked with me up the road until the designated crew area ended and we parted ways. I would be making the long road-climb up to Engineer Pass, and she would be driving back down the rough Animas Road to Silverton, and ultimately over to Ouray (our next crew meet-up).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The climb up to Engineer was actually moderately pleasant. The gradient was gradual, and I was always in sight of the final pass. I could see headlamps in front of me and therefore never panicked about how much climb was left. This also meant the climb went quickly and I was able to make really good time up the road. I was up and over the top in about an hour, and quickly making my way down to the Engineer aid station about 1000 feet below the pass on the other side. This is one of the aid stations that volunteers have to hike-in to, so I knew it would be somewhat spartan. The descent down was across open high-meadows, and proved difficult to navigate in places due to infrequent trail markings. I did eventually find my way on to the official trail, and was arriving at the aid station in less than an hour from the summit. I sat briefly at the station while I ate some warm ramen and hot cocoa, but didn't linger long for fear of catching a chill.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The descent from Engineer Aid down to Ouray is somewhat protracted, and I knew it would drag on. In addition, there is the section along the Bear Creek trail that weaves its way along a very narrow cut in the rock wall, giving way to a ridiculously precipitous drop off just to the left of the trail. I remembered hiking up this section in 2018 and being terrified of a misstep. This feeling was certainly present again as I weaved and twisted my way around the narrow trail. In the dark, there was no way to see the bottom of the drop-off either, making it appear like an endless chasm. It was legitimately terrifying. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After about two hours of fast-paced hiking, I did eventually find myself on the switchbacks that descend down to the highway outside of Ouray. I caught my first glimpses of town and thought, erroneously, that I was close. I had forgotten that once on the highway, it was still about 3+ miles of rolling trail before actually reaching town. This stretch of the course is probably my least favorite of the entire run...and many dub it the "pointless ups and downs" for good reason.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After nearly another hour, I finally found myself on the downtown roads of Ouray, approaching the aid station. Not only would I be seeing C again for a full crew stop, but, I'd be picking up my pacer (and fellow Barkley finisher), Travis.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I made it to the aid station after what seemed like an eternity and it felt good to just sit for a while. I ate whatever food C put in front of me and was content to just sit quietly for a bit. Travis joined in and it was genuinely good to see him. I warned him that I'd be slow, and he was content to go whatever pace I wanted. After about ten minutes of rest, we both loaded up and started up the long road out of Ouray and up to Virginius Pass. This stretch consists of over 8 miles of dirt road leading up to the pass, before the final 1000 feet on trails. Over the next few hours, Travis and I hiked at a brisk pace up the road and traded countless stories. We caught up on all sorts of topics and it was truly a wonderful stretch. I was still feeling really good, and by the time we neared the upper section of trail, it was already get light out. When we did eventually peel off the road for the final ascent to the pass, we were presented with enormous snow fields that were still quite frozen. This presented serious challenges both with navigation and with maintaining safe footing (I did not have any traction or micro-spikes with me). On one stretch, we had to use a fixed rope to haul ourselves up so as not to plummet over a hundred feet down the mountain side. As this was all happening, I began noticing that I was having some mild difficulty with my breathing. I again chalked it up to the elevation (nearly 13,000 feet), and pressed on with a few additional breaks leaning over my poles. Eventually we topped out on the pass and chatted with the folks at Kroger's Kanteen aid station (the highest aid station of any race in North America). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj3CxfnmLVgWhQ3euwJHTNOu6u8CTMwZoswx8DVb51oXa5nGD2euNg8t8ailVvt9yduo0a7QyEE70865i77SqRi58kWEGlm-_F0Bb7-mgSAOD0z2Iv7q6Qi4-Qa7zEQHl5yDaLFF0wKFWkBTW5wAv-0d1nfSdb_esAYOe3NBr3xunOuVtLT-XVT-Qzx4ww4" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj3CxfnmLVgWhQ3euwJHTNOu6u8CTMwZoswx8DVb51oXa5nGD2euNg8t8ailVvt9yduo0a7QyEE70865i77SqRi58kWEGlm-_F0Bb7-mgSAOD0z2Iv7q6Qi4-Qa7zEQHl5yDaLFF0wKFWkBTW5wAv-0d1nfSdb_esAYOe3NBr3xunOuVtLT-XVT-Qzx4ww4=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Tunnel just outside Ouray</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh73wtcv6rYPkDl0SSZ8NVzpaDghn300jd4Ky1ILAqEYGeQB5spqEI7haiHq0v8fONTRfrSyK0-3m_fbgdib4Nq_fjxmDZbLgAoemnH0eJyZ5kUV5qV4HRF_s_i4Y9uZADARK6xdbm1cRspoGYlim1px_Hz8Jy1TbLYnAvkJRPlhvG6Y2wE-JHZwzkVFS9n" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh73wtcv6rYPkDl0SSZ8NVzpaDghn300jd4Ky1ILAqEYGeQB5spqEI7haiHq0v8fONTRfrSyK0-3m_fbgdib4Nq_fjxmDZbLgAoemnH0eJyZ5kUV5qV4HRF_s_i4Y9uZADARK6xdbm1cRspoGYlim1px_Hz8Jy1TbLYnAvkJRPlhvG6Y2wE-JHZwzkVFS9n=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Snowfield near Virginius Pass (I'm already gasping for air)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEieNLHW7lHcDO7TQkz7RuetM_afEft1XMR83BDWRqYxzdLdBMFPMKVWThwUtt3je1rA9uaFdRllFfcvI0Gdtfh1gjsZ181PlkoU_AO5Rncrbc-zNtHpQxEzIJRZdhX1Q1tGOJw1birUVmBkKN5klN9GU3LpuIg4dTwRVOCC52c-sGF-Vs67_U1KuGP-Dy-A" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEieNLHW7lHcDO7TQkz7RuetM_afEft1XMR83BDWRqYxzdLdBMFPMKVWThwUtt3je1rA9uaFdRllFfcvI0Gdtfh1gjsZ181PlkoU_AO5Rncrbc-zNtHpQxEzIJRZdhX1Q1tGOJw1birUVmBkKN5klN9GU3LpuIg4dTwRVOCC52c-sGF-Vs67_U1KuGP-Dy-A=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Final snow pitch up to Kroger's Canteen</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbkWXuYr1tBApfzTH7hPRLwZQv5Wsmks4t_PC8wYkRx_CRdf2LOQlz2CqersMmkK9VxdvePvuNoQUgjp5FNlNL2sVVi6faQOuZMCX2n2giH-BHBmAerZ8M7t2vJSpO4AWfTqQzfyNMNv4TWHRRa8l96lVQ_aasxkx9-1nHPw6mij2szw0BuByKHh6xs7Ap" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbkWXuYr1tBApfzTH7hPRLwZQv5Wsmks4t_PC8wYkRx_CRdf2LOQlz2CqersMmkK9VxdvePvuNoQUgjp5FNlNL2sVVi6faQOuZMCX2n2giH-BHBmAerZ8M7t2vJSpO4AWfTqQzfyNMNv4TWHRRa8l96lVQ_aasxkx9-1nHPw6mij2szw0BuByKHh6xs7Ap=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Ascending a snowfield to Kroger's</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjjw-DM5ih4wE1r6DDLB7YsDKHxZti7uJkQK9BddekEpAizlhc6R27RljfhCjpEYhfDAIQbWip_FM6Adg28_WfPorUpWWbNpWBOdNVtbOQT-ejgJQAD1l9YTQK5eYACZDSRn33O8JUSiwM9-GJLjPKXp_b5A3vhbNCfMSQEhZ8bWC2B9MFWpL4ZXs6U3gfP" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjjw-DM5ih4wE1r6DDLB7YsDKHxZti7uJkQK9BddekEpAizlhc6R27RljfhCjpEYhfDAIQbWip_FM6Adg28_WfPorUpWWbNpWBOdNVtbOQT-ejgJQAD1l9YTQK5eYACZDSRn33O8JUSiwM9-GJLjPKXp_b5A3vhbNCfMSQEhZ8bWC2B9MFWpL4ZXs6U3gfP=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Final pitch up to Kroger's (visible at the top)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEizzaXXPRS41ptP4Sy3h8rj38Dut-B-f7KSIuIvm9OispC_QU4UklGXiqoDz4MU5pHKOgQXYPPRiMQuTvq3SDSdNrl_GULTmb9VXE96uGFwxfbjdOHvrjZFQiy3LOLZLsYL1NmXUG6mYsmPUUGQyvssTV4dqScVbLVdFbuF3I7PbhwGFiGnclyQOslF5hS-" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEizzaXXPRS41ptP4Sy3h8rj38Dut-B-f7KSIuIvm9OispC_QU4UklGXiqoDz4MU5pHKOgQXYPPRiMQuTvq3SDSdNrl_GULTmb9VXE96uGFwxfbjdOHvrjZFQiy3LOLZLsYL1NmXUG6mYsmPUUGQyvssTV4dqScVbLVdFbuF3I7PbhwGFiGnclyQOslF5hS-=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">On Virginius Pass...about to descend</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5ZRZg2g0cejgcvsgcfmHBTAsNnAWdO1eGgDppX91usjCxYLJfSEK8T-WuIuF8ozE66yDv4DZrhU-2aHXkWq97duESkLNSawNA6OF3Jk9cgXkxLpjZEUMnesen5s7w4ELj2Qdut5kmzT7pgsaphIzb0vxpXZhX55tw-dWuHfMgVnMF9ExWek37TWk-GDof" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5ZRZg2g0cejgcvsgcfmHBTAsNnAWdO1eGgDppX91usjCxYLJfSEK8T-WuIuF8ozE66yDv4DZrhU-2aHXkWq97duESkLNSawNA6OF3Jk9cgXkxLpjZEUMnesen5s7w4ELj2Qdut5kmzT7pgsaphIzb0vxpXZhX55tw-dWuHfMgVnMF9ExWek37TWk-GDof=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div>Descending the steep scree down from Virginius Pass<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFBt70BvyczTYJP-krbino5CZwOO5KgEmw8AlZ6uOkBcGbhxFMVYHC9U3LgjhjGlCmsmmIc26DN2Y-3lzuU5yjmVFIsHF8MCttVJjZAFl4Pm9ZaCKOzYhimVj3nvYLUg1uG1DrbSUjiPufxh13BZm1ymP1EHmTS6JlxxeI5Echx5WAQAjSE5nojTyHtnj_" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFBt70BvyczTYJP-krbino5CZwOO5KgEmw8AlZ6uOkBcGbhxFMVYHC9U3LgjhjGlCmsmmIc26DN2Y-3lzuU5yjmVFIsHF8MCttVJjZAFl4Pm9ZaCKOzYhimVj3nvYLUg1uG1DrbSUjiPufxh13BZm1ymP1EHmTS6JlxxeI5Echx5WAQAjSE5nojTyHtnj_=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Approaching Telluride</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On the descent down from Virginius to Telluride, I again felt fine and we made great time. I found myself shuffling much of this descent and was pleased that I was able to move so well. By this point, I was still floating around a 40-42 hour expected finish time. The descent went quickly, and very soon we were on the final descent into Telluride (Mile ~75). This would be our last full crew stop with C on the course before the finish. I remember thinking how great I felt coming into Telluride and how there was only a measly 25 miles left in the race! Less than a marathon I thought!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But, it would be Telluride where I would last feel good....and most of the race thereafter was an absolute struggle.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhiXLJzjPAXW_Lf21zGRRnoMyB0Bs-da73v_PrcbMM01E3M0GDqcM4TPqY2xbgLaj41Eyrqif0ff3_g_s__zdDLbneu3BllfIijtbPWpDH0NY2TVT2bxK6QKJTeGj5G2-n4y0dRswCC-G_yASqvtS0q1cYA9SJEToYeOuuIqERWxJMIvHeMkCpZD1zZdNdD" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhiXLJzjPAXW_Lf21zGRRnoMyB0Bs-da73v_PrcbMM01E3M0GDqcM4TPqY2xbgLaj41Eyrqif0ff3_g_s__zdDLbneu3BllfIijtbPWpDH0NY2TVT2bxK6QKJTeGj5G2-n4y0dRswCC-G_yASqvtS0q1cYA9SJEToYeOuuIqERWxJMIvHeMkCpZD1zZdNdD=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Travis and me approaching Telluride aid station</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjxm3I36S8pPCTf9sGZZP_6CWRr0T4FccT_Pvib6iztS2Tlj-MN48ubaTclga0ELWOgswfstiajhIX4C6X-lJKm-XtLNTfpABodW26jQeJNzniOjRCNDGDpIt_bIOEz9r6YHdlbNJ_9g9Lukn-bErPQs_SNor4Ei8zcBiEJ3HtviqE9_655QbglI463dyih" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjxm3I36S8pPCTf9sGZZP_6CWRr0T4FccT_Pvib6iztS2Tlj-MN48ubaTclga0ELWOgswfstiajhIX4C6X-lJKm-XtLNTfpABodW26jQeJNzniOjRCNDGDpIt_bIOEz9r6YHdlbNJ_9g9Lukn-bErPQs_SNor4Ei8zcBiEJ3HtviqE9_655QbglI463dyih=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Leaving Telluride....and feeling good for the last time.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We spent about 10 minutes in Telluride enjoying some well-earned snacks and when we left, I genuinely felt like we would crush the last 25 miles, but as we started the climb up to the first pass (Oscar's Pass), I started having much more acute breathing problems. There were moments when it felt as if I was going to pass out and I had to stop to suddenly gasp for air. I didn't understand what was happening to me, but it was terrifying. I felt like I was either drowning somehow, or that I was asphyxiating, despite having no issues up until that point. I had to stop every 50 feet of climb, to lean over my poles and gasp for air. I felt bad that Travis had to wait for me. At the pace I was moving, I told Travis it would likely take us hours to make the pass. He suggested a short trail nap, so I did my best to curl up and sleep under an alpine bush. It didn't help. When that failed, he mixed me up some high calorie maltodextrin mix and I gulped it all down (hoping it was maybe just a calorie and electrolyte imbalance)....but that didn't help either. Every bit of climb was torment and I couldn't go more than a few hundred feet before again stopping to prevent myself from passing out. This went on for hours as I slowly inched my way up to the saddle. It was simply awful.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After many hours, we finally reached the summit and I sat down for along while to simple rest at the cairn. I began panicking about the fact that we still had two large climbs left on the course before the finish and began doing the math. I had lost over 2 hours on the Oscar's climb and was now in serious danger of missing the 48-hour cutoff if things didn't improve.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJWMP6imRSfvI0jXu_Mz23SpISjNPa_sjV957FsudM1Du_awFCWnjv_n60p_Yq1alzm8s1b0qLGHg6A9SUO7pXqcctmM9x1uvHg4BX01oe00kH04gelYr12d7tMlhuHqotybfyFFkg_Zhn7DpnGqLgpXrbNHUSox_mCcN_XqC3mHF8WXrvapFelDbnBkyA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhJWMP6imRSfvI0jXu_Mz23SpISjNPa_sjV957FsudM1Du_awFCWnjv_n60p_Yq1alzm8s1b0qLGHg6A9SUO7pXqcctmM9x1uvHg4BX01oe00kH04gelYr12d7tMlhuHqotybfyFFkg_Zhn7DpnGqLgpXrbNHUSox_mCcN_XqC3mHF8WXrvapFelDbnBkyA=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Climbing to Oscar's Pass (This was my lowest point of the run)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We began the descent down to chapman and as we did, I noticed that I was coughing up thick phlegm. Every time that I did, I would gag and nearly vomit....but then I would notice I could breathe slightly easier again. This is when Travis noted a friend of his had similar symptoms on a multi-day climbing trip, and that the diagnosis was acute exercise-induced asthma...which led to phlegm and fluid build-up in his longs. Travis spent a few minutes hitting my back, and I coughed up enormous amounts of fluid...which gave me some noticeable temporary relief. I told him that I wanted to exploit that relief as long as I could so we shouldn't waste time climbing up to the next pass (Grant's Swamp Pass). We ate about 1500 calories each at Chapman and began the climb up to the pass. As we were climbing I noted that I was actually breathing better and was hoping it would last until the top, but as we were chatting, we missed a turn on the trail and spent about 20 minutes off course until we realized our mistake. This was monumentally frustrating given my condition. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once back on the trail, we climbed quickly, gaining thousands of feet in just two miles. We made it to about 600 feet short of the pass when my breathing started becoming more labored again. At this point the course also climbs up an enormous scree and snow field up to the pass (probably the steepest pitch on the entire course). I struggled on the climb, making only a few steps at a time...resting between each mini push. It probably took me over 30 minutes to climb 500 feet. The final section of the pitch was on an incredibly steep snow field and I was so delirious I nearly lost my footing (which would have sent me tumbling down the mountainside).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On the top, we celebrated briefly and admired the views of Island Lake, before quickly beginning our descent down to the KT aid station. By this point in the race, my breathing was starting to become more labored even on easy descents. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We hiked our way into the KT station just as dusk was upon us, and we prepped for what would be our final climb up to Putnam Ridge. Just as we left the station, and forded a ridiculously fast-flowing and cold creek, my GPS watch ran out of battery. This was incredibly demoralizing as my watch was the only way I was tracking my elevation gain, and therefore my total climbing. I would now be climbing this final 3000 foot mountainside, completely blind, and in the dark. The thought of not-knowing how much climb I would have remaining, really upset me. I kept asking other runners that would pass us, "What does your altimeter say?"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On this final climb, my breathing troubles came back with a fierceness and no amount of coughing, would clear enough fluid to help. This climb would be like Oscar's.....slow and arduous. We inched our way up the mountain as the temperatures began to plummet. The trail was an endless trudge trough wet marshlands and my feet were constantly wet. It was all so miserable...plain and simple. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But then we topped out on the first part of the ridge, and I could see the headlamps in the distance going up and over the final ridgeline section. It was the first time I could positively see the final high point on the course, and it brought me an incredible sense of relief. I just had to get over that final climb, and it would be all downhill to the finish line. I felt a final kick of adrenaline and somehow, despite my breathing difficulties, I pushed up the final climb (gasping the entire time), until I topped out. For the first time in miles I actually pushed ahead of Travis and began moving well down to the final aid station. The temps were near-freezing up top as well, so I had a good excuse to move quickly to get back down into the trees and into warmer temps.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We made quick work of the upper descent and were at the final aid station within another 45 minutes. We refilled our bottles, drank some hot cocoa, and wolfed down some quick ramen. The medic at the station was concerned by my audible wheezing and considered pulling me, but I refused to let them. I told them I was much better on descents and even if they did pull me, I had to get down the mountain anyway....so I might as well just walk down myself to the finish. They agreed. Then Travis and I put our heads down, and forged ahead for the final 6 miles to the finish. We were told it was 4 miles downhill to the Mineral Creek river crossing (the deepest and fasting flowing on the entire course), and then 2 miles of rolling terrain to the finish (with some very-short climbs totaling a few hundred feet). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The four miles down to the river dragged on for quite some time, and I could feel myself fading terribly. I was falling asleep, gasping for air, and simply had trouble staying upright. I had to keep telling Travis to slow down as I couldn't physically keep up with him.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">About an hour and twenty minutes after leaving the aid, we came up on the river...and it was a raging torrent. There was a rope tied up across, but the crossing would be ridiculous and incredibly dangerous. I gripped the rope as best I could and plunged in without thinking. The current was fierce and the water rose above my waist. It was frigid and I immediately began shivering. I as neared the far shore, I crossed through the roughest current, and was nearly pulled off of the rope. It was one of the most demanding crossing I've done since some of the more ridiculous crossings back in the Sierras during my PCT hike. It was all genuinely scary.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On the shore, C was there waiting. She had driven to the crossing to check on me and could tell that I was in horrible shape. She noticed my breathing immediately and told me to just take it easy over the last two miles. I thanked her for being there and then Travis and I pushed on to finish the final two miles. I was shivering horribly from the water crossing and just kept telling myself I only had 30 minutes left.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As we progressed down the trail, I became convinced that we got off course. It seemed like we were moving away from town and down a trail that was going on for way too long. I started becoming paranoid that we were never going to make it. Each time my anxiety peaked though, we'd finally see another trail marker and knew we were on course. This cycle repeated probably a dozen times over the next 20-30 minutes as we slowly made our way to the "Shrine" monument just up from town (the last marker before descending down to the finish line). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">About a half-mile from the finish, the trail dumps you out on a dirt road that climbs up and away from town. It all seemed wrong and I was again convinced we were going the wrong way. It was a testament to just how badly I wanted it all to be over...and how delirious I was.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We finally reached the Shrine, and the trail veered off to the right and down into town. I knew it was just minutes to the finish now.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We trotted down the last dirt trail and C was there to meet us where it met the road in town. We all walked together to the final turn and as we approached the school, I picked up a feeble jog, gasping for air, and rounded the final turn to the finish chute. I ran up the chute, and then walked the final few steps up to the rock.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I leaned up against it, gave it a kiss (as is tradition), and then slumped into a chair. Given the late hour (~ 3 am) there were only a couple people outside to witness my finish. Dale (the race director) came out a few moments later to award me my buckle and I told him that I just wanted to get inside and lay down. I was in a bad place.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxdTowHLtI--tCUJlIcaXSawrmZa2aTvV329h8ikhHGPseT7OXjfiEvkHGXcScI3DRdQFtaIgndWuAsb7N3KYi3bRHqdrWOVD99HKFn5T3nsF8nywzSz5HP8vftHgeqXCvWtaa0-JC_hSCvYmTVZanklB5DIjD6Zxff7hoMSnsgu7C5prrceuhCw-0lEon" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxdTowHLtI--tCUJlIcaXSawrmZa2aTvV329h8ikhHGPseT7OXjfiEvkHGXcScI3DRdQFtaIgndWuAsb7N3KYi3bRHqdrWOVD99HKFn5T3nsF8nywzSz5HP8vftHgeqXCvWtaa0-JC_hSCvYmTVZanklB5DIjD6Zxff7hoMSnsgu7C5prrceuhCw-0lEon=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Completely spent and barely able to breathe....but finished.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I went inside and immediately talked to the medical team. I told them about my symptoms and they informed me that many runners were experiencing similar issues, likely due to the very-dry air and extended exposure to dust. There were many vehicles kicking up dust on the roads during the race, and with no rain, it only exacerbated the already dry conditions.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">They measured my blood oxygen and it was 84 (It should be over 95). They immediately put me on supplementary oxygen and a nebulizer. I laid on a medical cot for about 30 minutes and waited until my oxygen levels came back up to normal. It was all a bit scary, but I was just so glad to be done and being taken care of. As I laid there, I remembered something Travis told me while we were on the last climb several miles back. He said, "There'll come a moment when you're all done with this, and you'll think...'I did it. It's done. I survived....and it's all behind me. Now I can rest.' As I thought about that, I drifted to sleep.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A short time later, C woke me up, I thanked the medical staff, and then we drove over to the motel. I spent a long time in the shower warming up, and then eventually went to bed. I drifted off, wheezing for air, but content to have completed the Hardrock course again....and in the harder direction. I was now a "True Hardrocker".</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The next morning I attended the awards ceremony, where I was presented with my Hardrock Doctorate (2-time finisher). Afterward, C and I relaxed the rest of the day....eating enormous amounts of food, and simply doing....nothing. I was definitely grateful that I booked the motel for an extra recovery day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Monday morning, we quickly packed, and finally checked out. On the drive back home, my breathing slowly began to improve. I thought about my final finish time of 44 hours and 55 minutes and was somewhat disappointed...but also grateful to have finished at all given my breathing issues. I had set out to complete the "Double" and my 100th ultramarathon....and I had. Mission accomplished. It was a good feeling.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I told C that my time on the Hardrock course had likely come to an end and that I wasn't planning to enter the lottery next year. But...then memories from my time on the course started to come flooding back, and as we crossed through Monument Valley and Navajo Nation....a slight grin could be seen on my face.....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhF58IjxKbUefiePuK0NKWHaAdSRFJVDSFbFuhTc1ASKKJzDo3qWX8TtaTT_Y2jt0fP8-E3t_jctQ61YiHEx9i-WfvVYtxem9QUPbQrrRUQBbivhEVE_p2elbYzOgs9mBwMrqeB05sn5bruyKN-Ya9gQoFv_l2xElcWqicnBtaV8SWr0GsRtz4BBi6L9Vn" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhF58IjxKbUefiePuK0NKWHaAdSRFJVDSFbFuhTc1ASKKJzDo3qWX8TtaTT_Y2jt0fP8-E3t_jctQ61YiHEx9i-WfvVYtxem9QUPbQrrRUQBbivhEVE_p2elbYzOgs9mBwMrqeB05sn5bruyKN-Ya9gQoFv_l2xElcWqicnBtaV8SWr0GsRtz4BBi6L9Vn=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Receiving my awards at the post-run ceremony</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiliUwi0JOezSUkmCPTrjYgzCMyKl6XfawpEbLbAcjqfwLbWKrEiHPimWl0fzfMbSiKfiQw7Q9W1zw2PbI7DU5914SmAsTGBEflcfI8wzvuftBKfT3ekgANhugkhdMpHYS3GjPK6W22KJ4SbwNPCUuMRMhp0G001MkP_W5KEUE1d6DjL-o0L1rqaUagrA8A" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiliUwi0JOezSUkmCPTrjYgzCMyKl6XfawpEbLbAcjqfwLbWKrEiHPimWl0fzfMbSiKfiQw7Q9W1zw2PbI7DU5914SmAsTGBEflcfI8wzvuftBKfT3ekgANhugkhdMpHYS3GjPK6W22KJ4SbwNPCUuMRMhp0G001MkP_W5KEUE1d6DjL-o0L1rqaUagrA8A=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Asleep at the awards....</div></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5lCntzsZlJCApqVWbRUIxDIRxf2RcUYv9pDrBMBNn0UAeM4df01f8HoMM_WuEP9PVOR3g2-WjnVBLMnxebJXm1kkWIS0lI7ElESv94rt9eTfAKYO1cavoRCFiRgbX9VAyvjL14PbQPpTBPiKmjjMWXt0KVwVNBxfIDOCD0oM1GjabplnQkXb_aPxmJzYq" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg5lCntzsZlJCApqVWbRUIxDIRxf2RcUYv9pDrBMBNn0UAeM4df01f8HoMM_WuEP9PVOR3g2-WjnVBLMnxebJXm1kkWIS0lI7ElESv94rt9eTfAKYO1cavoRCFiRgbX9VAyvjL14PbQPpTBPiKmjjMWXt0KVwVNBxfIDOCD0oM1GjabplnQkXb_aPxmJzYq=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div>My "Double" wrist bands.....<br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A quick note about gear. I again wore my Topo Athletic Ultraventure 3 shoes....and they again were brilliant. These are probably my favorite trail shoes I've ever run in....so kudos to Topo for making such a great shoe. The Ultraventure 2 was a bit disappointing, so am thrilled that I've finally found a shoe that really does well (I wore the same pair for both Western States and Hardrock).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Second, I wore button-up Rabbit brand "High Country" shirts for both races, and also loved them! These are absolutely fantastic shirts....and now my go-to top for any outdoor adventure.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I again used my new Ultimate Direction Mountain Vest, and it performed well. There's a few quirks I don't like about it, but overall, I would say that I was pleased with it. One note here, is that I used 600 ml Nathan Bottles (as opposed to the 500 ml standard bottles). This allowed me a 200 more ml of fluids as well as less-concentrated drink mixes. I did carry a third empty bottle in my pack for the very-long stretches (which I only used once during the Handies stretch). I did run out of water briefly on the Oscar's climb.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I used my black diamond z-poles...and of course loved them. I had bought a pair of the leki ultra poles (the ones with the special integrated gloves), and just didn't like them (and returned them).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Nutrition was all over the place, but I did use a lot of the Tailwind "Naked" flavor, as well as Sword "Lemon" flavor.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I used Maurten Gels...they are expensive, but I never get sick of them, or gag on them. They are worth it in my opinion.</div>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-10515682042002536732023-07-02T18:07:00.019-04:002023-07-02T22:16:51.626-04:00The Eye of the Storm: 2023 Western States 100 Run Report<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvSZSOb_SoC_npVtwY0fPpYSFKAI5MKPM31HExvO9pK6BqrGSdFjluYDMcRjeR0JFmlgVjnrAB7KpYXhC_OvWUFuAvo1EjbHxKBrnc7mM6s0gLE8xFjjzxPQvYNZaN8QGgliPq15nbxSRUEHNH6OJgt4GFXpBZ6SI9ex0cv6ynvOm1859cpKOIaWPHhYED/s900/4154-01-533-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-001.jpg" style="font-weight: bold; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvSZSOb_SoC_npVtwY0fPpYSFKAI5MKPM31HExvO9pK6BqrGSdFjluYDMcRjeR0JFmlgVjnrAB7KpYXhC_OvWUFuAvo1EjbHxKBrnc7mM6s0gLE8xFjjzxPQvYNZaN8QGgliPq15nbxSRUEHNH6OJgt4GFXpBZ6SI9ex0cv6ynvOm1859cpKOIaWPHhYED/w266-h400/4154-01-533-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-001.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">In the high country at Western States</div><div><br /></div>I've reached the proverbial "eye of the storm"; the moment of calm betwixt two raging tempests...<div><br /></div><div>As I sit here, calmly enjoying an early summer day, I am filled with both a sense of satisfied contentment for what I have just accomplished, but also a sense of palpable trepidation for what is to come. This past weekend, I successfully navigated my way through the mountains and canyons of northern California along the Western States 100 course to again cross the finish line in the town of Auburn...and thus complete my 99th official ultramarathon. This was my second running of this event, and this year, I bested my previous time by almost 50 minutes. The snow conditions in the early miles were quite similar to those in 2017, however the overall temperatures during the mid-day, were much more forgiving this year. As a result, I was able to move well, and move consistently all day...and nibble away at my previous time. The ultimate result was a successful day, with no major blowouts, injury scares, or other issues. I sit here today, just 4 days later, feeling quite well and ready to run again.</div><div><br /></div><div>If the story ended there, then it would be a worthy of a celebratory drink on the back porch, with feet elevated, and accompanied by well-earned sense of achievement. But, the story doesn't end there.</div><div><br /></div><div>In just over two weeks, I'll be again lining up for another 100-mile jaunt through the wilderness...but this time well over 9000 feet, and with almost twice the amount of elevation gain. I will be lining up in Silverton Colorado, for the annual running of the Hardrock Hundred Endurance Run. The good news is that I have run Hardrock before, so I have an idea of what to expect out there. The bad news is that this year, I will be going in the other (and arguably harder) direction....and there will be significant amounts of snow still on the course (when I ran the course in 2018, there was almost no snow at all).</div><div><br /></div><div>So, I could fret. I could worry. I could panic. But instead I choose to breathe in the cool air, and be grateful for what I have been able to do in California, and what I have the honor and privilege to be a part of in Colorado. I know it will be difficult and challenging. I know it will require an enormous effort. I know it will take everything I have to reach the "rock" (finish line). So....I will show up ready and willing to head forth into the wilderness bearing a smile, an eager spirit of adventure, and of course, my trekking poles.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>A Brief Race Recap</u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I arrived in Tahoe City on Wednesday, giving me two full days to relax and take care of race logistics. One thing that was noticeably different from my past running at Western States, was that upon arrival, I already knew that I was in the starting field. There would be no nervous nail biting as I wait to hear if I might come off of a wait list. This made the entire experience quite different from what I had in 2017. I could enjoy the pre-race festivities, check out the gear store, and otherwise let my mind relax. I spent most of the day Thursday, mulling around the Olympic Village, and shopping for WS gear...and then on Friday, I took care of my drop bags. At 2:00 PM on Friday, I attended the runner briefing and learned that we should expect a lot of snow up top in the high country, but much cooler temps in the canyons as compared to normal. I wasn't too worried about the snow, but I knew if I had to contend with temps like I had in 2017, it was going to be a rough day. Hearing that the expected highs (even in the canyons) wasn't supposed to top 85 degrees, was very welcome news.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Another thing that made this year's running different was that was I sharing a rental condo with some friends from back east (one of which was also running). In addition, I had a planned pacer that I would be picking up at mile 62. This pacer, Deb, works in the same department at the University and had offered to pace when I first learned I'd be running (last December). Typically, I don't use pacers much anymore, but I knew that having one for Western States is really beneficial. I've run with Deb many times back home on training runs, so knew that she would be excellent company in the wee hours of the night as well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After the runner briefing, and having dropped off all of my gear, I headed back to my airbnb, ate a healthy serving of pasta, and went to bed as early as I could. Alarms set for 3:30 am. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One quick important note: Just four weeks prior to the race, I had run about 50 miles of the Western States course with my friend from back east, Melissa, as part of the "Training Camp". We had a grand ol' time, but the snow was definitely still quite expansive in places. I had heard that in the 4 weeks leading up to the race, the temps had been high and much of that snow had melted. But, from just looking up at the high peaks towards and the first 4 miles of the course that lay ahead, I knew we were still in for quite a bit of the white stuff. Melissa, was also in the starting field for the race this year.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjZQ24vSdkHykFR-q6sePrPNHsbHsduRC7uIRQbMKSDYnf9dw7FlA4n-mFzb4OHSnu63ZtVoAqe7WNxtg_cAerR44y2TKkOxsPk4kFtaQldf850TmTcK6wJgVKvouTJT3CORoeGizVEj8SeQnqTwCbPtXezyI5wSGdTf1tyXeTVazdraTkSCX-Tppw1Fltb" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4480" data-original-width="6720" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjZQ24vSdkHykFR-q6sePrPNHsbHsduRC7uIRQbMKSDYnf9dw7FlA4n-mFzb4OHSnu63ZtVoAqe7WNxtg_cAerR44y2TKkOxsPk4kFtaQldf850TmTcK6wJgVKvouTJT3CORoeGizVEj8SeQnqTwCbPtXezyI5wSGdTf1tyXeTVazdraTkSCX-Tppw1Fltb=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Western States Training camp with Melissa (Late-May)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjyLYgSSgdVwOHrEeDKOKKj-awOdzodUykfNnAhGAeL7OYzTMOiQnKjnkPDicBLTFCBpkZIwnCte-KrOKJbi5m7Mdw-E147t1SYwvHy01jUH1ZEmVqLDoEaLMr0FToSEPhuMdyAtSGNEOyJny1tyD4QIkiA_Qca9tqyT1hbHlBWzR36Nn61SHDFqTgdqLQX" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4480" data-original-width="6720" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjyLYgSSgdVwOHrEeDKOKKj-awOdzodUykfNnAhGAeL7OYzTMOiQnKjnkPDicBLTFCBpkZIwnCte-KrOKJbi5m7Mdw-E147t1SYwvHy01jUH1ZEmVqLDoEaLMr0FToSEPhuMdyAtSGNEOyJny1tyD4QIkiA_Qca9tqyT1hbHlBWzR36Nn61SHDFqTgdqLQX=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Western States Training camp with Melissa (Late-May)</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br style="text-align: left;" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj7P5MdW902xWR8T3C46VvtjA-xRN2bX30WP40dV-8839Yv9HE7xZuxHZemDLKIQDeKoYuu6drCGoAWRF34O6Q6U5AYUx-MX-bG_cPdSutCoRRDxSNFsy49Y5I-nDGHUJTXDaYHHqCBkLJzfhOiNi1G6sNBZG5BC_NtqM3vQdvDnfDVVzLD266TyN1_4Jzn" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3018" data-original-width="3104" height="389" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj7P5MdW902xWR8T3C46VvtjA-xRN2bX30WP40dV-8839Yv9HE7xZuxHZemDLKIQDeKoYuu6drCGoAWRF34O6Q6U5AYUx-MX-bG_cPdSutCoRRDxSNFsy49Y5I-nDGHUJTXDaYHHqCBkLJzfhOiNi1G6sNBZG5BC_NtqM3vQdvDnfDVVzLD266TyN1_4Jzn=w400-h389" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Hanging out with the gang near the start line</div><br style="text-align: left;" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjmj8ieWtGkKXwDlcC7bZurSXPggLZhMU30X8U3XwYwnFpdTiqHIa0KsciWRGCB2ocDuvqNy0uOA7OkMlCp0gdEswgyJ1Z6yehIIZMDq6IeCSRiyDp6JqjIaMcmvGf3CzSoCLh8ThnzZ7JCwdfnfhGtSPi6AX6hxXTK5NUNSkZGGozE6x5m2fRgAK3_UMEs" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjmj8ieWtGkKXwDlcC7bZurSXPggLZhMU30X8U3XwYwnFpdTiqHIa0KsciWRGCB2ocDuvqNy0uOA7OkMlCp0gdEswgyJ1Z6yehIIZMDq6IeCSRiyDp6JqjIaMcmvGf3CzSoCLh8ThnzZ7JCwdfnfhGtSPi6AX6hxXTK5NUNSkZGGozE6x5m2fRgAK3_UMEs=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Melissa and I getting the quintessential "welcome" shot</div><br style="text-align: left;" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgmwjFBDQvgeyx7Xed2DFzUP_2fuWozpnLYwwKKdJUZKobnT0y19PZUGa1eauvsauU5KwcFMGguR6lgDJnbbNSDq6xBbjR2IEMipOK6gEsLJi7DA2n6zyy984DeOBY4VuxgyHvDf4JM0W3_nyw_6W3XulfprIuv12XcyrgJ4_NuPdgUZD4kA-A_CJP6oQaZ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgmwjFBDQvgeyx7Xed2DFzUP_2fuWozpnLYwwKKdJUZKobnT0y19PZUGa1eauvsauU5KwcFMGguR6lgDJnbbNSDq6xBbjR2IEMipOK6gEsLJi7DA2n6zyy984DeOBY4VuxgyHvDf4JM0W3_nyw_6W3XulfprIuv12XcyrgJ4_NuPdgUZD4kA-A_CJP6oQaZ=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The new start line (moved a few hundred meters)</div><br style="text-align: left;" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiO5i5KyFIBTahlzuWB28PcE5OMJsC9s3YjP2UViUNr-xHT-Iqqo9fvJdthggm65MvhkBldPWCqHgMhbhnP_dVFSHZsd_v3af_p5BLK9xGf6KfcaF-TYz8XlT0pe1oTtvXBggGgRmGg_hO0E53AZa_K49zDArM4A2aYmL-W-OTOQuXHOJKh8uR2oWeQwY48" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiO5i5KyFIBTahlzuWB28PcE5OMJsC9s3YjP2UViUNr-xHT-Iqqo9fvJdthggm65MvhkBldPWCqHgMhbhnP_dVFSHZsd_v3af_p5BLK9xGf6KfcaF-TYz8XlT0pe1oTtvXBggGgRmGg_hO0E53AZa_K49zDArM4A2aYmL-W-OTOQuXHOJKh8uR2oWeQwY48=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Pre-race photo at the start with Melissa</div><br style="text-align: left;" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitTCMAyvsoHnUh_CBgSsOlZWbRXjiHP4u7sW1QOlTFomgyHc3uzQERg0ZK6bk6F_Hxzn34HEkseRrDmk0L4spgFT9KNceUkSWuQyvf18HaBb5VJBja4E3XNOarBkWPUhxfGP1kuciH4yAnx12Nw1m7fyaAYv7ThpcoMrGzCDVpyex4LpVvOwvYmq3SpS93" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitTCMAyvsoHnUh_CBgSsOlZWbRXjiHP4u7sW1QOlTFomgyHc3uzQERg0ZK6bk6F_Hxzn34HEkseRrDmk0L4spgFT9KNceUkSWuQyvf18HaBb5VJBja4E3XNOarBkWPUhxfGP1kuciH4yAnx12Nw1m7fyaAYv7ThpcoMrGzCDVpyex4LpVvOwvYmq3SpS93=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Pre-race photo at the start with Deb</div><br style="text-align: left;" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh36PDdixSbXzUzxk1HU85hHkd3x_D_UmwoxJG5MD0kB9DFLk8w6FCC9611ivCfQ83uF_hCEYFLczEvAntPVXQeIP7tY4AEkk2gUsiEcEOoxHs_EWI5V8Ihfc-ndqrJuj3oPesJ_D7S7_1wVO4247KahoYdPbAcVX7ECkjFSSYWE92E5YXTfIbu_g5-ce5q" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh36PDdixSbXzUzxk1HU85hHkd3x_D_UmwoxJG5MD0kB9DFLk8w6FCC9611ivCfQ83uF_hCEYFLczEvAntPVXQeIP7tY4AEkk2gUsiEcEOoxHs_EWI5V8Ihfc-ndqrJuj3oPesJ_D7S7_1wVO4247KahoYdPbAcVX7ECkjFSSYWE92E5YXTfIbu_g5-ce5q=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Drop bags packed and ready</div><br style="text-align: left;" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtPJ2JdRsGwegxQ39VSnAm1v1ieCNleukuhW4CRQXl9zbPSLkwehurNlHAthWgxIcRQHpye5oBTFuR2f-yQNolBPToWUtYfZYX0kZTe5GoIqVYVCHMwtJYFb7tDmpO1WlBamGdW0xKs_U2cFyeegL5XrZCgDK0GlXCpeplLfPUSbSyLKNBts8V8XvjXW4M" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtPJ2JdRsGwegxQ39VSnAm1v1ieCNleukuhW4CRQXl9zbPSLkwehurNlHAthWgxIcRQHpye5oBTFuR2f-yQNolBPToWUtYfZYX0kZTe5GoIqVYVCHMwtJYFb7tDmpO1WlBamGdW0xKs_U2cFyeegL5XrZCgDK0GlXCpeplLfPUSbSyLKNBts8V8XvjXW4M=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Getting my official race photo</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPyxUJiJFHOGRytQPuAdNREHE-rcKaoGAMqGRl3Ar9y6_To5XMwYYrMHZjNF3txmnn-S22hqXssVPnIBMW9UWXOP5O6BF4ImLDVNedNEOMfNsSGTieJvXGq8dzxvqpF-fOY8MuYZz0yK9QOxz-aLda_QvLRBDsHfqw-brNRtZ_Xj3CFFZDYAGZhB_cDmiQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1620" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPyxUJiJFHOGRytQPuAdNREHE-rcKaoGAMqGRl3Ar9y6_To5XMwYYrMHZjNF3txmnn-S22hqXssVPnIBMW9UWXOP5O6BF4ImLDVNedNEOMfNsSGTieJvXGq8dzxvqpF-fOY8MuYZz0yK9QOxz-aLda_QvLRBDsHfqw-brNRtZ_Xj3CFFZDYAGZhB_cDmiQ=w267-h400" width="267" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">2023 official entrant photo</div><br style="text-align: left;" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0kl7A5er0ejUjepz-99zJ1DELBruLpAkktwu3dx4kvojWcLFFpv9xjIzpXeV8TexcsyuOTlx-avTDyPaNq41pZK-3rqN_s4TkYs-7sW5Kf44y51NjtarrgSQtG1NkNK0_aGCbrRV52jFjA5cRl5dmMBl5EXwO27C2q6JGuN1C4bL8ku6rgO9SFG9kAsgG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0kl7A5er0ejUjepz-99zJ1DELBruLpAkktwu3dx4kvojWcLFFpv9xjIzpXeV8TexcsyuOTlx-avTDyPaNq41pZK-3rqN_s4TkYs-7sW5Kf44y51NjtarrgSQtG1NkNK0_aGCbrRV52jFjA5cRl5dmMBl5EXwO27C2q6JGuN1C4bL8ku6rgO9SFG9kAsgG=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Signing the runner book and other paperwork</div><br style="text-align: left;" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj8Xgkg63w_PWi8rOdp8AwubYLZwwvff0NWHHPSSXNO8ZFZU_Psbrr_HFLurtxPdLuXT6Igqy0o6BOmP6ZxMDR4i9RLKK7pAcbiKyoU220X-5PJQ-5J8NU3bkgrFGvtjGv8yAdBD5IGCTj3_F9ZYDlziRVTcx6iPEJvQy_706hkhKaqZoVMssKRpMuQNZRG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj8Xgkg63w_PWi8rOdp8AwubYLZwwvff0NWHHPSSXNO8ZFZU_Psbrr_HFLurtxPdLuXT6Igqy0o6BOmP6ZxMDR4i9RLKK7pAcbiKyoU220X-5PJQ-5J8NU3bkgrFGvtjGv8yAdBD5IGCTj3_F9ZYDlziRVTcx6iPEJvQy_706hkhKaqZoVMssKRpMuQNZRG=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Getting my wristband...it's official!</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Race morning starting about 3:00 am when we all woke with the pre-race jitters. I put down a healthy bowl of muesli and drank two full bottles of water (I was trying to be super proactive with respect to hydration this year). We all headed over to the village about 4:00 and had an hour to kill until the gun went off. About 5 minutes before the start, I said "see you later" to Deb, and headed to the start with Melissa. A look up at the snow levels on the peaks revealed an almost identical amount of snow that we had in 2017. I went back after the race and compared photos from both years, and it's frankly remarkable how similar the snow levels actually were.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA8AXqabNVxW8Tgumql0LBlZSY-kKl7IPnmmL-Sd9mXWEpFFgH4eBDBo6nlItc3JZNfKD7PyzcqUTqlT7xCPZHry0_fqzRjz-fngiyRRoP63mSysU8YeAgSWMLIpFJ2z15cp9fL4gpPwfrIoqY8LAU-F1XZ9LDqnfg22u2_iQqr_uRm7rcyOFa1zybnItv/s1024/9E1F2DEB-C5D5-4D96-9ACE-24160E938173_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA8AXqabNVxW8Tgumql0LBlZSY-kKl7IPnmmL-Sd9mXWEpFFgH4eBDBo6nlItc3JZNfKD7PyzcqUTqlT7xCPZHry0_fqzRjz-fngiyRRoP63mSysU8YeAgSWMLIpFJ2z15cp9fL4gpPwfrIoqY8LAU-F1XZ9LDqnfg22u2_iQqr_uRm7rcyOFa1zybnItv/w400-h300/9E1F2DEB-C5D5-4D96-9ACE-24160E938173_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Snowy peaks at the start in 2017</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Aro5OmCE3ppEzkWuEv1LDcwDsC8r9gCHopEHtG0C5HWRajq-_JWpFYg9kNoOw5QQeXBScLmneT6xSqLMHD56q92kPrDblowNY_o3OiLfOQHngZ4ZSSL9FocsGemqOQhoZ84tZRG7h34iiMGBZGRAMzWbC-YP6Vw0jXM3ArodHkUjtOhJCPLkRYWwaLGx/s509/11021181-AD19-4B6D-81E0-8769DB8A4EC8_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="411" data-original-width="509" height="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Aro5OmCE3ppEzkWuEv1LDcwDsC8r9gCHopEHtG0C5HWRajq-_JWpFYg9kNoOw5QQeXBScLmneT6xSqLMHD56q92kPrDblowNY_o3OiLfOQHngZ4ZSSL9FocsGemqOQhoZ84tZRG7h34iiMGBZGRAMzWbC-YP6Vw0jXM3ArodHkUjtOhJCPLkRYWwaLGx/w400-h323/11021181-AD19-4B6D-81E0-8769DB8A4EC8_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Snowy peaks at the start this year (nearly identical)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvBrVcBuoAIAynyk1ATvoKyQ8dXekJFk3vCGqwiS8o8WmRvVbqvphFkcAqqzhJ6eMfMEZlmOVHqzo9y9UShmoQcitxQ3rKbh2-SMI3tGMSpzA0cKQsxM_rhCAG5iY3Cy-TpXxuS3T0LyxCHH0fyI0StIyqr0PjzFCTv40zzI-TL_PJM4ialMmGbxzFPty8" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="1212" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvBrVcBuoAIAynyk1ATvoKyQ8dXekJFk3vCGqwiS8o8WmRvVbqvphFkcAqqzhJ6eMfMEZlmOVHqzo9y9UShmoQcitxQ3rKbh2-SMI3tGMSpzA0cKQsxM_rhCAG5iY3Cy-TpXxuS3T0LyxCHH0fyI0StIyqr0PjzFCTv40zzI-TL_PJM4ialMmGbxzFPty8=w400-h175" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Western States Elevation Profile</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I shared a few last minute words with Melissa, wishing her luck and then...promptly at 5:00 am, we were off! I trotted my way up the approach road making use of the snow-free terrain while it lasted. About 2 miles up the climb though, we left the comfort of the road, and headed straight up the snow fields towards the escarpment (the highest point on the course). I didn't have my split times from 2017, but knew I had hit the top a little over an hour into the run. Similarly, I hit it just a few minutes past the hour this year. I made sure to stop again at the top, turn around and admire the beautiful sunrise. I looked down briefly to see if I could spot Melissa behind me, and caught a quick glance of her not too far behind.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As expected, on the backside of the climb, the trail was clear for about 1/4-mile, but then immediately turned into a snowy wonderland almost exactly like what I went through in 2017. For the next 10 miles, all the way to the first aid station at Lyon Ridge, we had almost continuous snow. Every once in a while, we'd get a few hundred feet of trail, but we were almost exclusively slipping and sliding along snowy drifts. I manage ok on snow (given all of my experience back on the PCT), and kept a steady pace. I monitored my heart rate carefully to make sure I didn't get carried away though. It's easy to push a bit hard and burn too many "matches" if you're not careful. Dealing with snow can sap a lot of energy if you just try to plow through with reckless abandon. When my heart rate started to climb, I eased back, all the while not worrying about how I was passing, or who was passing me. There was a lot of race left.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The first aid station took a while to reach given the conditions, but once there, I topped off my bottles, grabbed some snacks, and was out rather quickly. For the next 6 miles to the Red Star station, the trail continued to be heavily covered with snow, but significant gaps were starting to open up. The staggered nature of the snow made it hard to settle into a rhythm though. When I hit Red Star, I really had to use the porta-potty, but it was in use when I arrived. I decided it was worth it to wait, so lost about 5 minutes at this aid station. In retrospect, those 5 minutes would end up being the difference between a sub-27 hour finish...but so it goes with races I suppose. I guess I could have just used "the woods" for my bathroom break. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvSZSOb_SoC_npVtwY0fPpYSFKAI5MKPM31HExvO9pK6BqrGSdFjluYDMcRjeR0JFmlgVjnrAB7KpYXhC_OvWUFuAvo1EjbHxKBrnc7mM6s0gLE8xFjjzxPQvYNZaN8QGgliPq15nbxSRUEHNH6OJgt4GFXpBZ6SI9ex0cv6ynvOm1859cpKOIaWPHhYED/s900/4154-01-533-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-001.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvSZSOb_SoC_npVtwY0fPpYSFKAI5MKPM31HExvO9pK6BqrGSdFjluYDMcRjeR0JFmlgVjnrAB7KpYXhC_OvWUFuAvo1EjbHxKBrnc7mM6s0gLE8xFjjzxPQvYNZaN8QGgliPq15nbxSRUEHNH6OJgt4GFXpBZ6SI9ex0cv6ynvOm1859cpKOIaWPHhYED/w266-h400/4154-01-533-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-001.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Cruising along some clear single-track in the high country (snow visible in back)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipV3UiweDccnugHHU_RThul5cH6pBf1h2AE2ZaLfq3mlKYm5LHhTA_uaE-xHwM1_LOuQc-4zmtiVsbUg1pXCgKmB0zzczgtpROPpBEA0Dw7xGb4XhRd7jSpcsMHwde2uEsy6lpfv2mROIJHbNMPfighEGCJZ5DgHzJjUrGFa-3ttKJL3nGliY50uhLEegU/s900/4154-02-715-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-006.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipV3UiweDccnugHHU_RThul5cH6pBf1h2AE2ZaLfq3mlKYm5LHhTA_uaE-xHwM1_LOuQc-4zmtiVsbUg1pXCgKmB0zzczgtpROPpBEA0Dw7xGb4XhRd7jSpcsMHwde2uEsy6lpfv2mROIJHbNMPfighEGCJZ5DgHzJjUrGFa-3ttKJL3nGliY50uhLEegU/w400-h266/4154-02-715-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-006.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Climbing Cougar Rock<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLCYAF61K_6B6xzu05PM2ZMPLsE1QM-XGIRayH-PUcsyhXFQb1dQ5rKiMCKd4572k3pOeh57ZucXWFJAf0Tzk3mtuXaYr6jbz30aCR_x_MEyEEh5xtDSCTqNlxNj0Sna7WBLQYAm00iq3GuxoFQxyxif49ZsM5yF66oD079eZiKkaXsMR5u05g28WGPSSh/s900/4154-02-717-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-009.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLCYAF61K_6B6xzu05PM2ZMPLsE1QM-XGIRayH-PUcsyhXFQb1dQ5rKiMCKd4572k3pOeh57ZucXWFJAf0Tzk3mtuXaYr6jbz30aCR_x_MEyEEh5xtDSCTqNlxNj0Sna7WBLQYAm00iq3GuxoFQxyxif49ZsM5yF66oD079eZiKkaXsMR5u05g28WGPSSh/w400-h266/4154-02-717-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-009.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Climbing Cougar Rock</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Heading out of Red Star, we began the slow descent down to Duncan Canyon. We were told two things about this stretch by the race director. First, once we began descending, it would be mostly snow-free. Second, the creek crossing at the bottom was "waist high". The descent was the first time I felt like I could open up a bit and it felt great. Coming into the Duncan Canyon aid station around mile 25, I was feeling good, floating along, and optimistic that most of the snow was behind me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlj8ENP0hKBbvCA6BPUdNUcv1RkT_D9BT3Tfur1rqm7fWvoiZKVb9AkcAOvbLFtb4PZCaSwQaos_PL-x7r5_VAeneri8qPlOikfRsKrXgYDIIS71oswpHWKE2PaycAICzIiXLWTnWnNsVM0K-aYHhKTcFA6-S4-wNi1bDtJBHyYAyJimH83KSCavbPkSLL/s900/4154-05-350-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-015.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlj8ENP0hKBbvCA6BPUdNUcv1RkT_D9BT3Tfur1rqm7fWvoiZKVb9AkcAOvbLFtb4PZCaSwQaos_PL-x7r5_VAeneri8qPlOikfRsKrXgYDIIS71oswpHWKE2PaycAICzIiXLWTnWnNsVM0K-aYHhKTcFA6-S4-wNi1bDtJBHyYAyJimH83KSCavbPkSLL/w400-h266/4154-05-350-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-015.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Nearing Duncan Canyon Aid Station</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8LDcr2EK1sVUYeuOLuPfUyNp-Vx4j8bx4auLXIYb4MmgV3KCU517TKfbuR5qFWPSyy4bp2wAvazZ3DADDXceNc7_Y4QxyyZJVLvf9Vmsao5JUkvQjrD_1lIycAKTFzGkbrI3UIvrR10eEB_7Hce1a5LR4Dtqc_uqzJ2dvINGY7ro2eiVi-x7W7iEZN9Z8/s900/4154-05-354-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-014.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8LDcr2EK1sVUYeuOLuPfUyNp-Vx4j8bx4auLXIYb4MmgV3KCU517TKfbuR5qFWPSyy4bp2wAvazZ3DADDXceNc7_Y4QxyyZJVLvf9Vmsao5JUkvQjrD_1lIycAKTFzGkbrI3UIvrR10eEB_7Hce1a5LR4Dtqc_uqzJ2dvINGY7ro2eiVi-x7W7iEZN9Z8/w400-h266/4154-05-354-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-014.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Nearing Duncan Canyon Aid Station (and moving well)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEv5xKMGlgb60khIIF6h7fAEitZH7smVBRRKZx1SurOF7JbLbeuZl_Z25VwvPlta3KOerTPPI5QTgvfHCsV3WdsocUWgPtCfwGpIQIPFeY8VgiwaDrRhxKO7zCom2CNCMtgmHnwEYfa2E0zcQDTQ6IW3_ZmBu73oMBXb4QqSZ2mLJuYAQDdGYj3I_yfJ2/s900/4154-05-358-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-017.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEv5xKMGlgb60khIIF6h7fAEitZH7smVBRRKZx1SurOF7JbLbeuZl_Z25VwvPlta3KOerTPPI5QTgvfHCsV3WdsocUWgPtCfwGpIQIPFeY8VgiwaDrRhxKO7zCom2CNCMtgmHnwEYfa2E0zcQDTQ6IW3_ZmBu73oMBXb4QqSZ2mLJuYAQDdGYj3I_yfJ2/w266-h400/4154-05-358-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-017.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Coming into Duncan Canyon Aid Station (and moving well)</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I left Duncan Canyon for the river crossing, and was feeling good. On the many descents in this section, I was moving somewhat conservatively and getting passed a lot, but I was doing really well on the climbs (passing just as many). Part of the reason I was a bit timid and somewhat "afraid" to open up too fast, was that during the training camp just a few weeks prior, I took a really nasty fall. I was going a bit too fast, and clipped my toe on a rock and went hard into the ground. This fall nearly de-railed my entire "Double" and I was actually worried I wasn't going to be able to run. I had fallen monumentally hard on my right knee, and had to take a week off from training while I recovered. Thankfully it did heal in time, but it really spooked me, and had me constantly reminding myself to "watch the trail", and "keep the pace easy". As as consequence of my spill, I ran the race with leather biking gloves in case I did fall again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjN8Rdev2QZ2uxwI-I9fs1e8hGBF58ppkpdlnD9iHRG5IuRl6L23WHO-PDMovTF8leTKnsxc-92cKm-RYcf_VDXF_eVmUjtr1YxPJtRuayGM8x68VmGet_yZ8c3dnyspmXc4Qbie38NEdNTb_bylI7okgNNGVCWVr7SMjk2ncKfXGzjlT8ICvDS03NoJSDy" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjN8Rdev2QZ2uxwI-I9fs1e8hGBF58ppkpdlnD9iHRG5IuRl6L23WHO-PDMovTF8leTKnsxc-92cKm-RYcf_VDXF_eVmUjtr1YxPJtRuayGM8x68VmGet_yZ8c3dnyspmXc4Qbie38NEdNTb_bylI7okgNNGVCWVr7SMjk2ncKfXGzjlT8ICvDS03NoJSDy=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My right knee just two weeks before the race</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi297KUIDq56vbRjGOQgvbr7e1dBYZeWsAx2bFelI9TNBy4biLIJmYO58ECBD7NJxmAHnz0QPRZH540LgaVzjW7xrkYxbrje6vLgNn7Uj35liUkw7YVRy4_XtM_m66pL5EAAZLRxrwxFvSDm4NGOCAlHQwzKmn2poV0b6TMKI4s1uIyXj3SzEtqi_6vUVS8" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi297KUIDq56vbRjGOQgvbr7e1dBYZeWsAx2bFelI9TNBy4biLIJmYO58ECBD7NJxmAHnz0QPRZH540LgaVzjW7xrkYxbrje6vLgNn7Uj35liUkw7YVRy4_XtM_m66pL5EAAZLRxrwxFvSDm4NGOCAlHQwzKmn2poV0b6TMKI4s1uIyXj3SzEtqi_6vUVS8=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My right hand before the race</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I got to the Duncan Creek crossing, a rope had been set up to help runners get across. When I stepped in, the water immediately went up to my stomach and it was a bit of a surprise. The water was also incredibly cold and took the air right out of me. Once on the other side, it took me a few minutes to catch my breath again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The climb up out of Duncan Canyon to Robinson Flat was the first significant climb on the course after the big haul up to the escarpment at mile 3. I pushed through it consistently and strongly and in less than an hour, I could hear the people cheering at Robinson Flat. This would be the first aid station where'd I'd see Deb and Melissa's crew. I planned to sit briefly, to assess my gear, and then move on in under 4 minutes. About a half-mile before the aid station, I had navigate one last section of full snow before hitting the road. I was shocked to see how clear Robinson Flat was of the white stuff, given just 4 weeks prior the drifts were over 8 feet tall. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I rolled up to all of my friends, sat down and immediately asked, "How far back is Melissa?" I was then told by her crew, that based on her live tracking, she was in danger of missing the time cutoffs. I knew Melissa was worried about the snow slowing her down (as well as the altitude), but I also knew that if she could get through it, she'd easily make up time after Robinson Flat when the snow was supposedly all gone. I told her crew that I was rooting for her, and then filled my bottles and rolled out. As I made my way down the road, I had fond memories of starting this stretch with Melissa just a month prior during the training camp. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For the next ~13 miles, the Western States course presents runners with probably the most beautiful and runable stretches on the entire course. At one point a volunteer was directing runners at a junction and he told me, "get ready for about 5 miles of pure awesomeness". He wasn't lying. I had a smile on my face for the entire stretch...just soaking it in. I ran most of it, and tried not to look at my watch too much. This section was recently burned in an expansive wildfire, so there were considerable exposed areas, but the temps were still behaving. In the back of my mind, I was starting to get nervous about the looming canyons.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Starting around mile 44, the Western States course presents runners with what I believe is the most difficult stretch of the entire race: The dreaded Canyons. The "Canyons" consists of three significant down-and-ups in a row. Each canyon involves anywhere from 1600 feet, up to 2000 feet of descent....followed immediately by an equivalent climb. In 2017, the canyons absolutely kicked my ass. Of course it was also over 100 degrees at the bottom of each, so I simply got sapped by the "oven-effect". This year, we were presented with much more modest mid-80s.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I dove down into the first canyon, I quickly recalled the short and steep switchbacks. They always seem to go on forever and the river at the bottom never seems to come. I firmly believe that the first canyon is the worst of the three despite not being the most elevation loss/gain. The climb out up to Devil's Thumb is steep, and soul-crushing. In 2017, I nearly quit the race at the top after being completely drained on the climb. This year, though, I moved steadily, and consistently and was frankly shocked at my progress moving up to the Thumb. I probably passed a dozen people on that climb and once on top, I was already running smoothly again. I only spent a few moments at the aid station was on my way to the second canyon (El Dorado) quickly. The descent and climb out of the second canyon does lose/gain more total feet, but the gradients are noticeably less. This means the climb is longer, but I think much more forgiving. I put my music on in my earbuds, put my head down, and plowed my way through the second canyon as quickly as I could.</div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjactukg2uDq16Ts8A8S-DxR2d7srUKxlrPWRMOX3bJLx7Dr-2yapab1JJ3GXxmRe1amwFjl23Dpisp5ryr9PVF0fmHOP2pUq_aZ861BTfP5cfJnm1hvrEA_xZi03tVp_bHTfdTDL6fqv8PeD9Mpzle_ZPwoE35JiR-MTt12u0bC7R_Xm23aJP5Uu-5DQTM" style="font-weight: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="1212" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjactukg2uDq16Ts8A8S-DxR2d7srUKxlrPWRMOX3bJLx7Dr-2yapab1JJ3GXxmRe1amwFjl23Dpisp5ryr9PVF0fmHOP2pUq_aZ861BTfP5cfJnm1hvrEA_xZi03tVp_bHTfdTDL6fqv8PeD9Mpzle_ZPwoE35JiR-MTt12u0bC7R_Xm23aJP5Uu-5DQTM=w400-h175" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The dreaded three "Canyons"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At the top of the second canyon, runners are welcomed at the Michigan Bluff aid station. This stop is quite lively and was a really nice welcome. I spent a few minutes there re-hydrating and putting down some more substantial solid food. As I left the station, I knew I had just one final canyon remaining, and the easiest of the three. Then, in less than 6 miles, I'd be at Foresthill and picking up my pacer, Deb. Once runners pass Foresthill, the entire feel of the Western States course changes. There are very few big climbs left, and the entire course becomes noticeably more run-able and subdued. I was hoping to really try to run a lot of the final 40 miles this year (as opposed to 2017 when I walked a fair amount of those miles)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The final canyon went quickly and I noticed that sun was starting to get quite low in they sky. I remembered in 2017 I had reached Foresthill just as I needed a headlamp, and was hoping to make it there this year a little sooner. My watch told me that sunset was about 8:40 pm, so was aiming to come in under that if I could. I didn't know my exact time from 2017, but guess it was probably about 9:00 pm.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I descended quickly down to the creek crossing of the final canyon and had to again get my feet wet, but then the climb up to Foresthill went incredibly quickly. In what seemed like just a few minutes I was already on the paved "Bath Road" that leads up to town and feeling surprisingly good. I topped out on the climb about 1/2-mile from the aid station and picked it up a little to a nice running pace. As I approached the station, I looked at my watch and it read 8:38! I had made it before dark!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I immediately spotted Deb and got pumped for the company. But then...I also caught something unexpected out of the corner of my eye. My sister-in-law and her partner had driven up from their home outside Sacramento to cheer me on! It was so great to see them and I eagerly hugged them both. I also learned from Deb that Melissa had missed the cutoffs and her entire crew had left to assist her. This news definitely saddened me, but there wasn't much I could do about it. I told myself that I would keep Melissa in my thoughts over the next 40 miles and try my best to "bring her along with me".</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Deb and I geared up quickly, restocked our fuel and waters, and then headed out of town and into the night. I said goodbye to my family, switched on my headlamp, and began the steep descent down the first of the "Cal Street" aid stations.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='321' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyeChRJc0NDlrMb9PQzNAMoW4GiIaZxR_OhHaCy8gvwNUGSFSw4s4p1jR145qTAtfiiY_znpji7JWhaOleuTw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Rocking Out" while arriving at Cal Street aid station </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Over the next 16 miles, Deb and I shuffled along the river, at much lower elevations, trading good stories. I was able to run most of this stretch and it felt so good to have some company to chat with. We began ticking off aid stations one by one, and within just a few hours, we were approaching the famous Rucky Chucky river crossing. In 2017, I hit this crossing feeling like absolute death. This year, the two of us were feeling good, and I was over 20 minutes ahead of my time from 2017. We hit up the aid station at the crossing, and then hopped in the boat for the quick assist across the river. Once on the other side, I quickly flipped through my drop bag, and then we began the climb up to Green Gate.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjPCYPUZdVNmcD_11BOQy_Q9L-TG1hsDmI6mQPY7BJEsdfOSdUKEcxLMoXVySA_1R2AAVxuKaHcfMiZJ3fmYPVb94qvJurPAAiKGiaOQ7D5V_RENfyd-mQWuU0V8ezh_2vqUpwCfg5zIhhcA_PtcTu7hyPBvreiSqgP_4KmXK6k35uFMxK1oKgisSI3qZ7i" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjPCYPUZdVNmcD_11BOQy_Q9L-TG1hsDmI6mQPY7BJEsdfOSdUKEcxLMoXVySA_1R2AAVxuKaHcfMiZJ3fmYPVb94qvJurPAAiKGiaOQ7D5V_RENfyd-mQWuU0V8ezh_2vqUpwCfg5zIhhcA_PtcTu7hyPBvreiSqgP_4KmXK6k35uFMxK1oKgisSI3qZ7i=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2017 crossing...feeling awful</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDiAEaiVse7Zag1eqjUYyoT6WdCXRvu3Ui4HzKg7_RSxkKetBgYpTRNdhPz9uJrAoBnY5I8HWBxA--nfxN1TZ8-Q_5wJT3KCkza3dewNs2IQ72U2w3S19lVVlTlm316DLv8Mvx_47cgEX-VYy2e2fENQhwG4dt72qO9XJyhBHKQ-VQu8av0PFbvDWm0kv1/s900/4154-08-316-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-020.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDiAEaiVse7Zag1eqjUYyoT6WdCXRvu3Ui4HzKg7_RSxkKetBgYpTRNdhPz9uJrAoBnY5I8HWBxA--nfxN1TZ8-Q_5wJT3KCkza3dewNs2IQ72U2w3S19lVVlTlm316DLv8Mvx_47cgEX-VYy2e2fENQhwG4dt72qO9XJyhBHKQ-VQu8av0PFbvDWm0kv1/w400-h266/4154-08-316-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-020.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This year...feeling so much better!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At green gate I was flooded with the unpleasant memories of my fall 4 weeks prior. During the training camp, I had fallen just above the gate, and then waddled my way over 5 miles down the trail to the Auburn Lakes Aid station in order to get a ride out. I was in really bad shape, and convinced that I had ruined my race. Needless to say, I was having some awful conversations with myself during those training camp miles. But...now, now I was feeling good, my knee was behaving, and Deb and I crushed through this section making up another 10 minutes on my 2017 time. It was during this stretch though that we noticed that we were both getting a bit sleepy. While the 2-3 am window of a 100-miler is my favorite, it is also the sleepiest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We pushed through Auburn Lakes and on to Quarry Rd where we were welcomed by Scott Jurek manning the station. It was an unexpected surprise for sure. As we left Quarry Rd, we noticed it starting to get light out. We had made it through the night! It was somewhere in this stretch that I saw the 24-hour time pass by and smiled to myself thinking about the last of the silver bucklers finishing (sub-24).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We made our way up the climb to Pointed Rocks and Deb took a few nice sunrise photos</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjI9UBFRDfQiT2MdZfPtlNyxgO9JtffsnkdEHUnGyBRuN11mGdPU1KMa-g0ifKIHcNmQ5pbETGvEwt9RiHaA09eG_ig_j1S-zMFwNAbqpiY4CVPjkCaJAFYbgu8aO8q-DbK7bThIpIjuaskmNCIfrO90B_32y-crBzRUoiZPEbhGkMcfog15nowIrakF1YS" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjI9UBFRDfQiT2MdZfPtlNyxgO9JtffsnkdEHUnGyBRuN11mGdPU1KMa-g0ifKIHcNmQ5pbETGvEwt9RiHaA09eG_ig_j1S-zMFwNAbqpiY4CVPjkCaJAFYbgu8aO8q-DbK7bThIpIjuaskmNCIfrO90B_32y-crBzRUoiZPEbhGkMcfog15nowIrakF1YS=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Mile 91-ish</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimC3-KQtwXhIFG45KqCCoIgV-ah3yeH4-HRD66PXYH_1aeld7XvmhlVRbrWe_JJ_QeMz0pcB98a9gCBBkl9D_sukeJryKpjUhQoiHmRMW66BAnRtuoJWEr8Xd23vFwrXLwFa0cmJuG4UJ21m8lBIa2pnT3qXmn0A8zCKu2T5I4pTOvfeclQTGZZjnXgSNk" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimC3-KQtwXhIFG45KqCCoIgV-ah3yeH4-HRD66PXYH_1aeld7XvmhlVRbrWe_JJ_QeMz0pcB98a9gCBBkl9D_sukeJryKpjUhQoiHmRMW66BAnRtuoJWEr8Xd23vFwrXLwFa0cmJuG4UJ21m8lBIa2pnT3qXmn0A8zCKu2T5I4pTOvfeclQTGZZjnXgSNk=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Mile 91-ish</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When we arrived at the top of the climb at Pointed Rocks, we took one last mini-break to refuel, rehydrate, and use the facilities. I told Deb that once we left, I had no plans to stop in the final ~5 miles. When we headed out, the sun was starting to warm us up, and my pace quickened. Over the next 2.5 miles to the No-Hands Bridge I ran fairly quickly, and felt simply fantastic. I again passed several other runners in this stretch. When I hit the bridge, it felt magical. Deb and I ran across, all while hootin' and hollerin'. I was shocked at how much better I felt at this point than I did in 2017.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='319' height='265' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxKxftln_L77JdhBTlFzo2ZnfB5FA0JIGYUWh9OgnkE-kxvu0lZt4uQoWhhD3J-3Od8BFpB6Kvm7E3BfL4N1w' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I made my way up to Robie Point on the last climb of the course, I was monitoring my watch obsessively. I tried to convince myself that I could make it to the finish under 27 hours, but also knew to do that, it would require an almost impossible effort. As I did the math, I realized that I was going to need to run two 8-minute miles, all while climbing over 1200 feet, and with 100-miles on my legs. By the time we made it to the top of the climb and back on the paved road about a mile from the finish, I knew a sub-27 was out of reach (it would have required a sub-6 minute mile). Rather than fret about it, I settled into an easy-paced run alongside Deb, and we cruised down the road on our way to the high school with smiles on our faces.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I arrived at the final track, we ran around it together soaking it all in, and just before the finish....Deb pulled away off the course. I crossed the line in 27:04:56, almost 50 minutes faster than in 2017. I had made up an additional 25 minutes over the last 10 miles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I walked over to the grass, promptly laid down, and took a well-deserved rest. Deb grabbed my drop bag, and I changed into more comfortable clothes. For the next few hours I cheered on additional finishers and watched as the last of the runners came in during the golden hour.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbRr8e-h2slCl-wUAbQPgDIIokViXTvETCJye8JjSDYDIfzEKf1FfBe0_Tj1E0t5_qogMLgm61uVQhdpJHIrse63MPHdYvPnVA4R4v6vS9ez4nY779XrIruhLS7TPr-tusK9q2MHGvB4rrtPgYsVrT3WBoWw9FVUp7oCFP2WB8EK2Oa_huEDVUmwlAbF2S/s900/4154-12-077-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-022.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbRr8e-h2slCl-wUAbQPgDIIokViXTvETCJye8JjSDYDIfzEKf1FfBe0_Tj1E0t5_qogMLgm61uVQhdpJHIrse63MPHdYvPnVA4R4v6vS9ez4nY779XrIruhLS7TPr-tusK9q2MHGvB4rrtPgYsVrT3WBoWw9FVUp7oCFP2WB8EK2Oa_huEDVUmwlAbF2S/w400-h266/4154-12-077-ZF-0918-44223-1-001-022.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The finish....still feeling good.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='319' height='265' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz8mcJ5DDDZjauU59HAhc3WD68y1YTkl5cPLzaTzactajhDDFGxqDU-jSd9nerDA1Q-YSRYo_02ve0qZHBZpg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Accepting my award</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhKP-rLyzEMf-CwL-KdyINbvnhDEk4YYMdQXQayvpe0AmHdmAHKzx2VJGPyNcGBkSKaMmSqyiebKjdVuweLmHky17AQR892ZRFFUK88_krxLEibCV004Hx-3VX7OS7ccuNQKlR3g1N-kzjqSQEbCz329mUe5M4P85Ezm4dZs_ocUFwSwsEdfiA8olyAKKYf" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2855" data-original-width="3871" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhKP-rLyzEMf-CwL-KdyINbvnhDEk4YYMdQXQayvpe0AmHdmAHKzx2VJGPyNcGBkSKaMmSqyiebKjdVuweLmHky17AQR892ZRFFUK88_krxLEibCV004Hx-3VX7OS7ccuNQKlR3g1N-kzjqSQEbCz329mUe5M4P85Ezm4dZs_ocUFwSwsEdfiA8olyAKKYf=w400-h295" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The "Prize" - the Western States Buckle</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The biggest takeaway from my run this year is that I truly paced myself correctly. I knew that I had Hardrock coming in just a few weeks, so intentionally wanted to be conservative. Yet, I was still able to reach the finish almost 50 minutes faster than in 2017. Certainly some of this was due to the cooler temps, but I also think that by taking it a bit easier earlier on, I effectively "banked" some much needed energy for later in the race. I was able to keep moving well through the night, and into the second morning. I was able to have good conversations with Deb and not feel like absolute death over the last 20 miles. By Monday, just two days after the run, my legs already felt almost completely normal.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So now...I look ahead to the next tempest: The Hardrock 100. I look ahead with anticipation, but with an enormous amount of humility and respect. I know just how difficult Hardrock is, especially with tired legs. My mission these next two weeks is to go easy on myself, don't push things, and try to recover as much as possible.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">....onward!</div></div>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-12609090787607211172023-04-21T13:38:00.016-04:002023-04-27T17:59:45.563-04:00A Grand Adventure<p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9W099nUoeW-CcwLVdYbEGn0KeV2IUNeafTVkiP5cnE_WEAFhvmIgW5VteUFWpc5DjIT1uZAF8M_Z-voMMDNWuhGEl8Ll6_Vw4rhBa2JJ_r0ND1wru95orDhsMrc3X9P2-jP88ozeB45KYetlMaHxJmbYZbzTU6tx82Hn0NyXVlxdgCgACfheHPSOPrw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9W099nUoeW-CcwLVdYbEGn0KeV2IUNeafTVkiP5cnE_WEAFhvmIgW5VteUFWpc5DjIT1uZAF8M_Z-voMMDNWuhGEl8Ll6_Vw4rhBa2JJ_r0ND1wru95orDhsMrc3X9P2-jP88ozeB45KYetlMaHxJmbYZbzTU6tx82Hn0NyXVlxdgCgACfheHPSOPrw=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sunrise near Roosevelt Lake</div><p></p><p style="text-align: left;">Much like with the ultrarunning or thru-hiking worlds, if you spend any time within the greater domain of motorcycling (particularly adventure motorcycling), you will come to learn of various challenges, traditions, and goofy exploits. One only need spend a few hours peeking in on motorcycle forums, or watching a handful of online videos to quickly observe many of these said challenges and traditions.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's really not all that surprising as with any hobby, there's always those that perhaps dive in a little too deep (which I of course am also guilty of doing myself). With respect to adventure motorcycling, there are certainly the obvious challenges, like visiting every state, or riding across a specific country (or countries). There's a well-known route in the US know as the Trans-America Trail that features thousands of miles of roads and trails that supposedly make for an incredible adventure. Many of the US states (particularly out west), also have what are known as BDR's or Backcountry Discovery Routes. These routes are much more technical and more appropriate for legitimate dual-sport style bikes. Incidentally, the AZ-BDR goes through Flagstaff just a few miles from my house. I've ridden many miles of the route, and much if it is beyond my skill level.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There are several well know routes that riders will take on as a "Rite of Passage". These include the Tail of the Dragon route through the southern Appalachian Mountains, the Skyline Drive in the Northern Appalachian Mountains, the Natchez Trace Trail in the Deep South, or the Going to the Sun Road up in Glacier National Park. Any place there's a scenic and twisty route, motorcyclists have likely penciled it in at one point on their proverbial To-Do list. Here in Arizona, we have several such twisty roads, with the Coronado Trail being one of the more well-known. It's about 100 miles of winding and curvy paved road that climbs up through the White Mountains, topping out about 9000 feet. It's supposed to offer some of the best views in Arizona.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Beyond the single road stretches, many more advanced motorcyclists will plan for years for what's known as the the pinnacle of Western Hemisphere challenges: the Pan-American Highway. This route begins in Ushuaia, the southernmost accessible point in Argentina (and the Americas), and goes all the way up to Prudhoe Bay Alaska. This ride is essentially one of the ultimate grand-daddy "thru-rides" of the motorcycling world.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Aside from the obvious scenic or adventurous routes, there are also a slew of what I would call, "challenges". Much like with the "Cannonball Run" in the auto world, there are various iterations of Cannonball rides involving two wheels. In essence, this challenge involves getting across the US as fast as possible on two wheels. And yes...there's even a Scooter version of this challenge where all riders are limited to 150cc (or less) scooters.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One well known challenge taken on by many riders is what is affectionately dubbed: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>"The Iron Butt Challenge"</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There are several variations of this challenge, but the standard version essentially challenges the rider to cover 1000 miles on their bike, in under 24 hours. There is an entire website and association dedicated to keeping the rules up-to-date and published, as well as keeping all records of successful rides. In order to successfully complete the Iron Butt Challenge and be recognized by the Iron Butt Association, you must keep detailed records along your ride. This includes all fuel receipts showing date/time stamps, as well as photographs of your odometer with said receipts at each top. In addition, any sort of GPX track of your ride is certainly recommended. The documentation process is arduous and involves several spreadsheets, and forms that must be sent in and certified. The website detailing this challenge (and the other variations can be found here:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.ironbutt.org">https://www.ironbutt.org</a></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Completing 1000 miles in 24 hours may not sound wildly difficult. It essentially means one must just average only 42 miles per hour. However, every stop eats into that average. So, every fuel up (which are much more frequent on a motorcycle), every stop to eat a snack, every stop to stretch your legs or take a photograph, every single stop.....chews into that average. Effectively, this all means that in order to actually complete an Iron Butt Ride, one must plan on banging out long stretches at high speeds in order to bank some time. Breaks have to be kept to a minimum and kept efficient (much like a race aid station). This challenge also means that you need to actually have a motorcycle that can ride at decent speeds for long periods of time. A small, 185cc dual-sport bike just isn't going to cut it. What's really mind blowing, is that there is actually a version of this challenge which involves 1500 miles in under 24 hours (which means averaging over 62.5 miles per hour!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So what does this have to do with me....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well a few months back, I came to learn of this challenge, and decided I wanted to try it. My quick disclaimer here is that my motorcycle is not a great highway bike. I own a Royal Enfield Himalayan, which is a single cylinder, 411cc thumper. This bike will go all day at 60-65 mph, but once it gets up to 70 it starts to strain a bit. So for me, if I were going to attempt a true 1000-mile challenge, I wanted it to be about trying to stay on more rural and scenic secondary highways where I wouldn't be contending with traffic going 85+ miles per hour (i.e. the Interstate Highways)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With this said, I decided to commit to attempting this challenge at some point, but I decided to "rebrand" it as a "Grand Ride". This is an obvious and intentional play on words, as I would be aiming to cover 1000 miles, with a focus on the scenery and landscapes (not the speed and time). Now of course, I would still aim to come in under 24 hours to officially complete the challenge, but even if I were to finish in 25 hours, I would still be content.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Thus....the AZ GRAND RIDE was born.</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Initially, I had hoped to do this ride a bit earlier in the year, but given the intense winter we had in Arizona, it simply wasn't possible. I began to notice an open Friday emerging on my calendar in mid-April and decided to pencil it in as my tentative attempt date.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, all that I needed to do now, was plan an appropriate route. As I noted, my goal was to have a route that was not only 1000 miles, but made up of the most scenic sections I could combine, that also featured secondary highways that I could hopefully go 60-65 mph on consistently. I also wanted a route that would have me start and end at home. In other words, I wanted to complete a very large loop route. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After many hours of playing in various mapping programs, I ultimately came up with what I thought would be the ideal route. This route clocked in at 1009 miles (giving me a few miles of buffer), started and ended at the gas station 1 mile from my house, followed along scenic routes, had long stretches of secondary highways, and also featured about 100 miles of twisty mountain roads as a capstone section for the route. This route would also have me traveling through just about every ecosystem of Arizona including the high Colorado Plateau, the Southern Deserts, the White Mountains, Navajo Nation, Monument Valley, and several large Volcanic Fields. On paper, it looked epic. It also had regularly spaced gas stations that would allow me to fuel up enough to not have to carry any spare fuel. The southernmost point would take me down close to Mexico, and the northernmost point would have me just 3 miles from the Utah border. The only downside with this proposed route, was it would require about 100 miles of riding along the I-10 Interstate. I wasn't thrilled by this prospect, but it was really the only way to get me across the southern portion as efficiently as possible.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsyoTaA4eQObpy4v90wVYGZ8QSqt2_Vrd0DuQBoEMcx9ZAJv0z-r7m9we3csIhjH17C7ZqSVxa1YtChs6kSw26SSB2VRUSYBpHql9Srl2XAWBdmiWiOgpgCahBe59qhDjnW1-F-8d4JhEFRQ_5ULt-RyQGGuyR8ekoLQLBwSXkCSCdW3bV5iqr_-njSw/s1934/track.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1934" data-original-width="1452" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsyoTaA4eQObpy4v90wVYGZ8QSqt2_Vrd0DuQBoEMcx9ZAJv0z-r7m9we3csIhjH17C7ZqSVxa1YtChs6kSw26SSB2VRUSYBpHql9Srl2XAWBdmiWiOgpgCahBe59qhDjnW1-F-8d4JhEFRQ_5ULt-RyQGGuyR8ekoLQLBwSXkCSCdW3bV5iqr_-njSw/w300-h400/track.png" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">AZ Grand Ride (~1009 Miles)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">About two weeks before the my tentative ride date, I took my Himalayan out of winter storage, did a full inspection on it, and took it out for several test rides. I was very careful to properly winterize it the previous December, so thankfully, it was in great shape. With that said though, I was still a bit nervous about subjecting the bike to 1000 miles of riding in one go. It did have almost 9000 miles on its odometer (which is a fair amount for a bike). I checked every bolt, connection, wire, and potential point of failure. By every measure I could tell, the bike was in excellent shape, and it was either now or never if I was going to attempt such a ride.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfnrLIq_5ZeHTJYKGtWDUtNNpOInS_0vICy26zly6fZWdNGfmIGimc6t3b7PntkhEUIuvdvCK6iUg_y8NynQ8k5DtE9Sa6k7bEkqkV23FlvNcgC902kefyMDN80lOVE9EiAM32-W0AMQvz-L3Jsw2Fw5-S-Q-YgTo_oFR2pkl1idJ-0FuoeavDQ_1bAw/s1024/59BA4FF1-81AB-4244-B933-13EED1377C1D_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfnrLIq_5ZeHTJYKGtWDUtNNpOInS_0vICy26zly6fZWdNGfmIGimc6t3b7PntkhEUIuvdvCK6iUg_y8NynQ8k5DtE9Sa6k7bEkqkV23FlvNcgC902kefyMDN80lOVE9EiAM32-W0AMQvz-L3Jsw2Fw5-S-Q-YgTo_oFR2pkl1idJ-0FuoeavDQ_1bAw/w400-h300/59BA4FF1-81AB-4244-B933-13EED1377C1D_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">De-winterized and ready for a proper challenge</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And so...I made the decision to go for the Grand Ride attempt. I carefully planned all of the gear I would carry such that I would have what I would need for every weather situation. I would also carry spare tubes, and all of my tire repair equipment. I would carry my extended tool kit and a few spare parts that I normally would leave at home. Lastly, I decided to pick up a small satellite tracker in case I were to get stranded in a really bad situation. This tracker had built in emergency SOS beacon on it, but also would send 10-minute tracking points to a publicly available website that I could then use as additional documentation for my ride. The device I bought was an InReach Mini 2.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When deciding what time of day to actually start my ride, I vacillated on a good start time. Part of me wanted to wait until after sunrise, but then I would be likely riding for several extended hours at night on the back end. If I started too early though (i.e. midnight), I'd likely be really sleepy and still have over 6 hours of darkness during the coldest part of the night right at the beginning. Even a strong coffee wouldn't help me there. So, I decided to split the difference. I would go to bed somewhat early, and plan to start my ride some time around 2:00 or 3:00 am. This would mean I'd have about 3 hours of cold and dark riding at the start when I would be the most fresh, and then would hopefully only have a few hours of riding in the dark at the very end (when I would also hopefully be fueled by adrenaline).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And so....at exactly 3:11 am, on April 14, 2023, I filled up my gas tank a mile from my house, snapped my official "start photo", and began what would ultimately be a true (and literal) Grand Adventure.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjscSOVg9J-GXYwlgiv6VixoHBmfDMnqYru1Bnx0DKHd2gJr6NQDzWKqclHP2b5pu2wInIAJR38HBEZHl4-ZonCGBQJprOgsslipvClb8kisadCvbax4X9eb2kOTmT_-QrwVSCbddLbc4QcPU6mXqDAKA39q84IXDfDjNkSeaakQPQoW1JtLFURzbzSeA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjscSOVg9J-GXYwlgiv6VixoHBmfDMnqYru1Bnx0DKHd2gJr6NQDzWKqclHP2b5pu2wInIAJR38HBEZHl4-ZonCGBQJprOgsslipvClb8kisadCvbax4X9eb2kOTmT_-QrwVSCbddLbc4QcPU6mXqDAKA39q84IXDfDjNkSeaakQPQoW1JtLFURzbzSeA=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My official "Start Photo"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5b_ej_GlI0zyAu0mid1I4H0gmuhMG75JQ4cIIs2B-cLBxBtv6EiYr7JXztZSpesm0IBz7TzSNhbFvIBfGcXFw_oS5Rm1wfR_0YGMHW8YTbk5s60mXheogVbBl5Yix6sqofUZPIDH3l3jaG8Nf_tyH808CMBFs5uQnQH3t3TuA60kKsVrGopzkc4bzg/s3840/gr1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5b_ej_GlI0zyAu0mid1I4H0gmuhMG75JQ4cIIs2B-cLBxBtv6EiYr7JXztZSpesm0IBz7TzSNhbFvIBfGcXFw_oS5Rm1wfR_0YGMHW8YTbk5s60mXheogVbBl5Yix6sqofUZPIDH3l3jaG8Nf_tyH808CMBFs5uQnQH3t3TuA60kKsVrGopzkc4bzg/w400-h225/gr1.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At the start....Mile 0</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The first 75 miles of the ride would be cold and I knew it. I prepared for this by drinking plenty of hot fluids before I left, and by layering up as much as I could. I even put hand warmers in my gloves. I knew if I just made it to Pine, AZ (about 80 miles in), the temperatures would warm significantly as I will have dropped over 2000 feet down in elevation just as the sun would also be rising. I've ridden the 75 miles along Lake Mary Road in the cold before, so I knew what to expect. My biggest fear was actually wildlife as this section of highway is notorious for elk movement. So, I had to be extra vigilant. Thankfully, I was fully caffeinated, and fully alert...and the miles went by fairly quickly. One thing that I had forgotten about my planned route, was that I had to add two small detours in order to properly make sure that it was over 1000 miles. One of these detours wouldn't come until the very last 50 miles when I would need to swing through the Sunset Crater/Wupatki scenic loop. But, the first small detour, was actually around mile 20, and I had completely forgotten about it. This detour was short, and only added about 5 miles to the route, but had me looping off of Lake Mary Rd. around Mormon Lake.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Normally, I would have loved this little detour, but given the cold temps, it came as a bit of a nuisance as I just wanted to get down off the high elevations as soon as possible. In addition, this was the one section of the entire ride, where I actually was presented with a small patch of ice, and it was terrifying. Some snow melt off of the flank of Mormon Mountain had run across the road, and when I came upon it, I was going too fast to stop....and had to just ride across it. I thought for sure I was going to slide out, but thankfully made it through without incident. Needless to say, it certainly woke me up and I went considerably slower through the rest of the detour until I was back on Lake Mary Rd.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjrsdJus4QGQPynggZf9qw0pECYMtKUWgdhp3n9tQGfrai21BGZBpKIFhUxg-nNIohVEb08y5wMnofvkpSsBI0fZeV3SnRcnAyNmAzHt7ov31h5o5K47Ept5Ux45WuIXOoCHdRNcZFLIqF7OvdkzlHb-85v12WSQITANrF-94e0B_UyfIs4JMiV19kbw/s3840/gr2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjrsdJus4QGQPynggZf9qw0pECYMtKUWgdhp3n9tQGfrai21BGZBpKIFhUxg-nNIohVEb08y5wMnofvkpSsBI0fZeV3SnRcnAyNmAzHt7ov31h5o5K47Ept5Ux45WuIXOoCHdRNcZFLIqF7OvdkzlHb-85v12WSQITANrF-94e0B_UyfIs4JMiV19kbw/w400-h225/gr2.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A cold morning coming down the Mogollon Rim</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis7FXqBXI8y8hYnBtcMqYRI9OQnvSHIb3602T-Kmj3sefH2xGFKe0goV09GIYhg87lAXfXuoeUajnDQ4MHx6Ba2PGjN-eURYRAZd3jrlWH-5W1Xc31u9xpIvso1N9qQUIXTCb3DOQ2xhP55DTnFHjrosa01A6UwrHo5DFM7u0CN7j2l6qXqrJ6UX9ZUg/s2232/Screen%20Shot%202023-04-21%20at%209.26.10%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1898" data-original-width="2232" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis7FXqBXI8y8hYnBtcMqYRI9OQnvSHIb3602T-Kmj3sefH2xGFKe0goV09GIYhg87lAXfXuoeUajnDQ4MHx6Ba2PGjN-eURYRAZd3jrlWH-5W1Xc31u9xpIvso1N9qQUIXTCb3DOQ2xhP55DTnFHjrosa01A6UwrHo5DFM7u0CN7j2l6qXqrJ6UX9ZUg/w400-h340/Screen%20Shot%202023-04-21%20at%209.26.10%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mormon Lake detour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once I made it down off of the Rim and into Pine, my fingers finally started coming back to life. As I weaved around the town of Payson and down towards Roosevelt Lake, I was starting to get hints of light creeping in over the eastern horizon. I timed the ride somewhat perfectly as the sunrise happened right as I was crossing the Roosevelt bridge and skirting along the shores of the lake. It was quite lovely to see the sunrise, contrasted with the water of the lake, and the saguaro cactus on the hillsides.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-MFinURQEOP6M0A7N5m71nKNhMCiAa-KlfTRh_FlvthLpbtiFhvRMjIOIRNd8xV-KRP5yulUEO2W6pMUQKSwy7Hp4yKQkHr-LGmFBGDMejzoNz_rmq54hGmRY6-mzhZr99HA6RbZWCBafwkzPkmg60eHwFZTz1xeBMqie8VxvVc66ZHRhRAhf_WDbww/s2238/Screen%20Shot%202023-04-21%20at%209.31.41%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1884" data-original-width="2238" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-MFinURQEOP6M0A7N5m71nKNhMCiAa-KlfTRh_FlvthLpbtiFhvRMjIOIRNd8xV-KRP5yulUEO2W6pMUQKSwy7Hp4yKQkHr-LGmFBGDMejzoNz_rmq54hGmRY6-mzhZr99HA6RbZWCBafwkzPkmg60eHwFZTz1xeBMqie8VxvVc66ZHRhRAhf_WDbww/w400-h336/Screen%20Shot%202023-04-21%20at%209.31.41%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The route from Payson down along Roosevelt Lake</div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCng7YgguLRNmSq2nRYv6qFjEPuJMNGKMKyFmsCyEYnBufe9p9TKbgc9rbZUaFB_SVN6k69lWzRLtzTlX_enGTeGo6_1r1CT5Uosj68ag8nR1IlGhh1jXWV0v2UXT6oChw1vg5B6aLLzuEJVOYVumM5X2R-gTCIKov6a25GPI8GQUs9oudtlQCFY6SSA/s3840/gr4.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCng7YgguLRNmSq2nRYv6qFjEPuJMNGKMKyFmsCyEYnBufe9p9TKbgc9rbZUaFB_SVN6k69lWzRLtzTlX_enGTeGo6_1r1CT5Uosj68ag8nR1IlGhh1jXWV0v2UXT6oChw1vg5B6aLLzuEJVOYVumM5X2R-gTCIKov6a25GPI8GQUs9oudtlQCFY6SSA/w400-h225/gr4.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Crossing the Roosevelt Bridge at sunrise</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT-pHuQNQ1HPhCbh8FqgnyzXeDsqrc6pad6wi0gbAB92ZtJR6V91D4XsCCCHnDbgbhKaut_5ZSPXwe15FsbpS_Hs8YqrVdW-xOHlE-U4ywijGCxi1PGSXQzoq_URpev3olBHFV0cVIMHngQ-6hvaKsQN-MrG9kzbfWGFM3CQ8GePxTw5NXJgZS-yMCJQ/s3840/gr5.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT-pHuQNQ1HPhCbh8FqgnyzXeDsqrc6pad6wi0gbAB92ZtJR6V91D4XsCCCHnDbgbhKaut_5ZSPXwe15FsbpS_Hs8YqrVdW-xOHlE-U4ywijGCxi1PGSXQzoq_URpev3olBHFV0cVIMHngQ-6hvaKsQN-MrG9kzbfWGFM3CQ8GePxTw5NXJgZS-yMCJQ/w400-h225/gr5.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Saguaro cactus on the hillsides at sunrise</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once I left the lake, I began a southward march towards the city of Tucson. What struck me about this stretch of ~150 miles, was the stunning geology. There were miles and miles of incredibly bedded sedimentary layers, as well as countless mountains popping up around the horizon. As I neared Tucson, the view became overtaken by the looming Mt. Lemmon. Once in the city limits, I did have to contend with some morning traffic, which slowed me down considerably, but did mix things up a bit. It felt weird to be moving through traffic lights and dealing with rush hour traffic, but it was only for about 10 miles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCH-JYOz_yv2Mdf5KKv2hOy1Mjd5fOWMUPo1SRRXD_5gDfMx4Yico2CXO5sYXmMDpzOvunimpBJcI1t6-28Yln8ZTrT1sfmkKxfMObxC1VkOhPeJe6mpIBKyHwvjwOlZCk-n51M-2oWzdNOcp5RSfnO67YkIxehNHqf4N8Q2OL_RzO6RnXtHXUouEGQ/s1990/Screen%20Shot%202023-04-21%20at%209.35.02%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1938" data-original-width="1990" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCH-JYOz_yv2Mdf5KKv2hOy1Mjd5fOWMUPo1SRRXD_5gDfMx4Yico2CXO5sYXmMDpzOvunimpBJcI1t6-28Yln8ZTrT1sfmkKxfMObxC1VkOhPeJe6mpIBKyHwvjwOlZCk-n51M-2oWzdNOcp5RSfnO67YkIxehNHqf4N8Q2OL_RzO6RnXtHXUouEGQ/w400-h390/Screen%20Shot%202023-04-21%20at%209.35.02%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The route to Tucson</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCW8pE18fQhkoF8A81sy-vtQU601pejjvU3xG3FVBrOj414Z5klAh7n0TjOrtkM59zOlbx3NfZpWs5upLK9WEnHnHJyNVkPf44Cp21wzSskSXxdfRPGPy6d1Q2UuiUdIM7xxNHENNtBmp_OoJ9x14-1UIp1-loerzVEKcSxQIl7uu6AdU5aWbDzDEs1w/s3840/gr6.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCW8pE18fQhkoF8A81sy-vtQU601pejjvU3xG3FVBrOj414Z5klAh7n0TjOrtkM59zOlbx3NfZpWs5upLK9WEnHnHJyNVkPf44Cp21wzSskSXxdfRPGPy6d1Q2UuiUdIM7xxNHENNtBmp_OoJ9x14-1UIp1-loerzVEKcSxQIl7uu6AdU5aWbDzDEs1w/w400-h225/gr6.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Some stunning AZ Sedimentary Geology</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Leaving Tucson presented my least favorite section. In order to get across my loop to the Eastern side, the only practical way was to take I-10 for about 100 miles. As I noted, my Himalayan doesn't like to go much over 70 mph, so I opted to sit in the slow lane, and effectively "hide" behind a slow semi or camper van. This way, people just went around me. It was definitely a bit stressful, but I did also take a 10 minute break about half-way through in the town of Benson. Benson was significant in that it also marked the southernmost point on my entire loop. Benson also marked the approximate 1/3 point of my ride (about 330 miles)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia1f4IGLPs5gA711g4A2kox54Gkw8FyYWiizvt-CHoIA0WUy-JAqClY5QBpRUU7da9wOalQiu6W32KO1F6_UIOjuKaltZAhdikJdeuJCQRn_4Yzl8QziVzzgl-rl07yvXlfRWrZMQEKWAms48x6mm7r0nNA16qPyxYZyynafta8QzRp4_2g2jyv3HZ2g/s3840/gr7.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia1f4IGLPs5gA711g4A2kox54Gkw8FyYWiizvt-CHoIA0WUy-JAqClY5QBpRUU7da9wOalQiu6W32KO1F6_UIOjuKaltZAhdikJdeuJCQRn_4Yzl8QziVzzgl-rl07yvXlfRWrZMQEKWAms48x6mm7r0nNA16qPyxYZyynafta8QzRp4_2g2jyv3HZ2g/w400-h225/gr7.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tucking in behind a camper on I-10</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPA4Lkx-OZ7P3KEORPYdc4n_KOmQWnpStBj5p3H91aLXNnMK6gqw7B_5B1Shf5S3jHdgiuu8656QSRAzlQm9uKqMUn0tBDZFtI9_ue4AzwxcWiTqR0ePao0o7w1jwzzNhTqe4AMStAmNapzgXakQ3xUVGAdvzcScqxtBN16a13XHwsvdlW4ZGvp-JRzw/s2178/Screen%20Shot%202023-04-21%20at%209.40.53%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1744" data-original-width="2178" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPA4Lkx-OZ7P3KEORPYdc4n_KOmQWnpStBj5p3H91aLXNnMK6gqw7B_5B1Shf5S3jHdgiuu8656QSRAzlQm9uKqMUn0tBDZFtI9_ue4AzwxcWiTqR0ePao0o7w1jwzzNhTqe4AMStAmNapzgXakQ3xUVGAdvzcScqxtBN16a13XHwsvdlW4ZGvp-JRzw/w400-h320/Screen%20Shot%202023-04-21%20at%209.40.53%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The southernmost point in Benson: Mile</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">About 40 miles past Benson, I finally exited the interstate, and was back on more appropriate secondary highways. This is when the ride really started to get interesting. Both the scenery and the nature of the roads improved greatly. I was presented with varying ecosystems and geologic formations (buttes, pinnacles, mesas, etc.), and the roads became noticeably more twisty. Exactly what I was looking forward to. Eventually I made it to the towns of Clifton and Morenci right at noon, and took a 15-minute lunch break. I knew that leaving Morenci, I would begin the 100-mile twisty mountain road section known as the Coronado Trail. I was really looking foward to this stretch, but I also knew it was going to be slow. I wanted to make sure I got in a good break and took in some calories and hydration before starting. One thing that did surprise me as I came into the town of Morenci, was the incredibly massive open-pit copper mine. Apparently, this particular mine is one of the largest copper mines in the country. I suppose it makes sense given that Arizona is the "Copper State".</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBzOyZVmSlLKg7bhXiu9o11f6h_fHiPu6i0AcDMsRQ8S9v4D5zWxByWkCy939XLeNAGS27ymsgCKVG3bM5fcgVKLioE0jD8rutTPrRebkKwwuIZs6OlrMQJYNi_5wQ59cr4-8-qvGDnWirz1bDGQ8q9UtKuf5VhQ4pt7YNb7FWdtEG3q_jxKJJqNFOUQ/s3840/gr8.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBzOyZVmSlLKg7bhXiu9o11f6h_fHiPu6i0AcDMsRQ8S9v4D5zWxByWkCy939XLeNAGS27ymsgCKVG3bM5fcgVKLioE0jD8rutTPrRebkKwwuIZs6OlrMQJYNi_5wQ59cr4-8-qvGDnWirz1bDGQ8q9UtKuf5VhQ4pt7YNb7FWdtEG3q_jxKJJqNFOUQ/w400-h225/gr8.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Heading into the more twisty and scenic roads</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyTxZ7P8g47gF7pXSzpLLYfULKiYWgMSdwBDPzlUiYdeNTlKMoTbCLfNWbWFPQ_Gg6FSozmBy-l1Lsc5rq6Ryx-g0w-H6kbt9t9vkWTYxfj3eymtYImbL_cp2d57Fkcwv2lEmrGsW4jM_1lZ7aOHel8YDsgjq-HbyRLFEbAX4QIDpmaPvcyCOpflSUhw/s3840/gr9.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyTxZ7P8g47gF7pXSzpLLYfULKiYWgMSdwBDPzlUiYdeNTlKMoTbCLfNWbWFPQ_Gg6FSozmBy-l1Lsc5rq6Ryx-g0w-H6kbt9t9vkWTYxfj3eymtYImbL_cp2d57Fkcwv2lEmrGsW4jM_1lZ7aOHel8YDsgjq-HbyRLFEbAX4QIDpmaPvcyCOpflSUhw/w400-h225/gr9.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Approaching the Morenci Copper mine</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I left Morenci, and after a few miles of navigating through the mine, I was legitimately starting up the twisting mountain road. The Coronado Trail would present me with about 100 miles of difficult riding, but thankfully, all paved. The route starts in Morenci, and weaves its way through various mountain passes and gullies as it makes it's way to the northern terminus in the small town of Alpine. This route reaches a high elevation over 9000 feet, so I knew I would also be presented with cooler temperatures and likely some snow. This area of Arizona is known as the White Mountains region, and it gets the most snow accumulation of anywhere in the state (particularly around the highest peak of Mt. Baldy). Thankfully, it was the warmest part of the day, and I was excited and alert to tackle this section.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Just as expected, I was rewarded on this section with the best views of the entire ride, as well as some frigid temps, and numerous snow drifts. One significant development that occurred during this section was that I hit the half-way point on the ride right in the middle, and it gave me a fun milestone to to keep me motivated during the slow riding.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlZtgaENzomPorg8yH0CdglrGYbp1aX4OOBLW_iEx4Fy3IvME52PwM6izDjLAiWdDIjv7p96Yw1LhYkCnrdTTvcqdQbaM-RBUOGerAE2w4kH1PMxVLPRFB9ZYN3QrgElbPtDNoykZYIXMjrzps_TaSmGVn5O-3uEj20h9o_p_LtN5pygo6tzvnyhMKQ/s2180/Screen%20Shot%202023-04-21%20at%209.48.55%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1744" data-original-width="2180" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUlZtgaENzomPorg8yH0CdglrGYbp1aX4OOBLW_iEx4Fy3IvME52PwM6izDjLAiWdDIjv7p96Yw1LhYkCnrdTTvcqdQbaM-RBUOGerAE2w4kH1PMxVLPRFB9ZYN3QrgElbPtDNoykZYIXMjrzps_TaSmGVn5O-3uEj20h9o_p_LtN5pygo6tzvnyhMKQ/w400-h320/Screen%20Shot%202023-04-21%20at%209.48.55%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Coronado Trail</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFJbIlIbu3i1LmLIrTgirW8ikj3xOVnzKy9pZA-vp54RmwXHlqMiGuBz-Y7a8yTM2iuZ_Ddw6-NnpA4X1n6WhD5HfwWsf5gNKj9akT4LYd3OUm8VvEjymm6xvCGx188TXQfgfAN4qoW1mxRR3cRcQZNuMTDyPTJG7IC4eTTeXG-GH8SuoxiEcfNyR5A/s3840/gr10.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFJbIlIbu3i1LmLIrTgirW8ikj3xOVnzKy9pZA-vp54RmwXHlqMiGuBz-Y7a8yTM2iuZ_Ddw6-NnpA4X1n6WhD5HfwWsf5gNKj9akT4LYd3OUm8VvEjymm6xvCGx188TXQfgfAN4qoW1mxRR3cRcQZNuMTDyPTJG7IC4eTTeXG-GH8SuoxiEcfNyR5A/w400-h225/gr10.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Starting up the twisty road</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8tUGVcA6PvRgon2FAh5exQUxaNxQ_ddB_W1yH_WFbpn9FFZRncyK8YRIwbDB_ferJq8n935JSJOL_hNI_8LWp_DRxGnacOUsfL72B88c3peMCbnDuq8KdXIkh5RPZlu_CKurDBBJQ2rsG5YMUlbqilh2UWxd-ak8MgBPg_k6k5FEqqCjgGME2vey4w/s3840/gr11.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8tUGVcA6PvRgon2FAh5exQUxaNxQ_ddB_W1yH_WFbpn9FFZRncyK8YRIwbDB_ferJq8n935JSJOL_hNI_8LWp_DRxGnacOUsfL72B88c3peMCbnDuq8KdXIkh5RPZlu_CKurDBBJQ2rsG5YMUlbqilh2UWxd-ak8MgBPg_k6k5FEqqCjgGME2vey4w/w400-h225/gr11.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Topping out near 9000 feet with a lot of snow still present.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I made it past the town of Alpine, I was able to speed up significantly and make quick work up to Interstate 40. It was at this point that things really began to change for me. As I crossed the highway, I couldn't shake the feeling that I could have just turned onto it, and headed home. But instead, I was continuing on north away from home. This put me in a real mental low that I just couldn't shake. I had hit the 2/3 mark on the ride (~670 miles), but was no longer enjoying it. Despite rather lovely scenery, the miles in this stretch I dubbed, "the grind". I knew I would hit some low points, but this was a difficult one to shake. I just wanted to go home and was tired of riding. I needed to find some new inspiration. I tried to convince myself that Canyon de Chelly would be a good goal to aim for, but then remembered that I wouldn't actually see the canyon on my route. I was also getting hit with some fairly hard winds making the riding much more difficult. To say that the miles went by slowly would be an understatement. I had to dig pretty deep to keep focused in this section.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But then, sunset came, and it was stunning. I had made it into Navajo Nation and the lanscape was changing noticeably. There were the more-typical monuments of the region, with various mesas and mittens beginning to pop up. As I watched the sun set to the west, and light up these formations, I was reborn with a new sense of purpose. I also had a rather important epiphany. I realized that once I hit the northernmost point of the route at the intersection of Route 191, I would be turning left and effectively heading home. This simple thought, was incredibly motivating and gave me a tangible goal to set for myself. My rough math had me hitting this intersection right as the dusk light would be fading. The turn on to Highway 191 would also be right around mile 800.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfmmd-NJFXd4NV3zF1SHwcHDULTIU1YkLxSi46GkXn0YwVBY_bKe2lAVqsuzDRFZ1yQQZPjhmgO0HCWcPGO8xMWlFQwr8UWv_pyOOx-tfggtgpW-hP3T8ZVvjSKlr-gJTJUtEexkqDJ3glzFcw8AimVkITQEO5JeWXSLhGq7zz5WHMO4KbkuuvToOXuQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1810" data-original-width="1928" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfmmd-NJFXd4NV3zF1SHwcHDULTIU1YkLxSi46GkXn0YwVBY_bKe2lAVqsuzDRFZ1yQQZPjhmgO0HCWcPGO8xMWlFQwr8UWv_pyOOx-tfggtgpW-hP3T8ZVvjSKlr-gJTJUtEexkqDJ3glzFcw8AimVkITQEO5JeWXSLhGq7zz5WHMO4KbkuuvToOXuQ=w400-h375" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The stretch north of I-40 was a difficult grind....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfmBsEfsUC-hlpJOPtAgx53HGhzQ4VdkoXTzt1N3yJH0Z2paug3kUJSM3vzgDT8gnQWatonpmBuviDFKrG1o2OpGaxkloy-zr84DkiSu73piv0v6Q0NqW2TaamBIbsacSI5BIibav17OTVcbdKRFca6g7gybkVFv0y1YXQESqmaduPRNc1PdGVgp8qbw/s3840/gr12.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfmBsEfsUC-hlpJOPtAgx53HGhzQ4VdkoXTzt1N3yJH0Z2paug3kUJSM3vzgDT8gnQWatonpmBuviDFKrG1o2OpGaxkloy-zr84DkiSu73piv0v6Q0NqW2TaamBIbsacSI5BIibav17OTVcbdKRFca6g7gybkVFv0y1YXQESqmaduPRNc1PdGVgp8qbw/w400-h225/gr12.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">During the "the grind"</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsCgvZJOKjjkAGt9qjd3tGgy89dhjYYHoz5QcrkjK3J3a_c5ZTzn03iXnVYq9pGBqLrUcRAdeSFBaX_fE-btjhjRNTmWnju_eZGvwVgnYqwLuhwfg4h10Rct2MA4GqOmhpxFON8ezZzjyJpW6u5W_xbWRg5xuHUBBK1qVDEO3ZB6hrIfAWbHkiTg-mtg/s3840/gr13.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsCgvZJOKjjkAGt9qjd3tGgy89dhjYYHoz5QcrkjK3J3a_c5ZTzn03iXnVYq9pGBqLrUcRAdeSFBaX_fE-btjhjRNTmWnju_eZGvwVgnYqwLuhwfg4h10Rct2MA4GqOmhpxFON8ezZzjyJpW6u5W_xbWRg5xuHUBBK1qVDEO3ZB6hrIfAWbHkiTg-mtg/w400-h225/gr13.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sunset in Navajo Nation</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5NaEtepXx0reEk6IeYXGVPoL333hldhm3As8Vfr8sxil7zXm44JyBnnOEfVWvuZpNjEcy5G_ii4TL_ownpHMgXw8k3YrMSXYuef1pMyYrhJl0NJ-GCa8oXnYFjp92VLBNB20eSdaXIcMJJXahDUpcNWJJ8CrQQbuz844kRBnGbrZW91Wza4l30-kTw/s3840/gr14.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid5NaEtepXx0reEk6IeYXGVPoL333hldhm3As8Vfr8sxil7zXm44JyBnnOEfVWvuZpNjEcy5G_ii4TL_ownpHMgXw8k3YrMSXYuef1pMyYrhJl0NJ-GCa8oXnYFjp92VLBNB20eSdaXIcMJJXahDUpcNWJJ8CrQQbuz844kRBnGbrZW91Wza4l30-kTw/w400-h225/gr14.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Reaching the turn for Route 191...and heading home (Mile 792)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The next 100+ miles were through the dark. I passed notable checkpoints along this route, including the towns of Kayenta, Tsegi, and Tuba City. The miles through this stretch were long, and went by somewhat slowly, but the fact that I was riding through the night now, just made it feel different. I didn't mind it as much, and in the back of my mind it still felt like I was heading home. That thought kept me motivated. I also had to stay alert for wildlife so was forced to focus. After a few hours, I finally made the turn onto Highway 89, which is the highway that leads back into Flagstaff. Once on this stretch, I had just about 15 miles until the town of Cameron (Mile 935). I made a final stop there for my last gas fill up, and prepped for my final 65 miles. I put back on all of my cold weather layers and prepared for what were going to be some cold final miles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I really just wanted to head straight home, but I also knew that I still had the sunset crater loop to do. I double checked the math just to make sure, and I confirmed that I still needed this loop in order to hit 1000. There was a part of me that was admittedly curious as to how the loop would be in the dark. I had done it several times during the day, and it does make for a lovely and scenic ride....but I was nervous about how it would go in the middle of the night. By this point, it was almost 11 pm.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I hit the entrance for the loop just 20 minutes later, I dove in and began navigating the twisty road past Doney Peak, and down towards Wupatki. About halfway through the loop I had a smile on my face and was quite glad that I was able to end my ride with this fun little capstone loop. It was quite an enjoyable little way to end my grand ride. When I did pop out at the southern end of the loop back on to Highway 89, I was now back over 7000 feet, and was presented with the coldest temperatures of the entire ride. I did a quick check on my phone and was seeing a temp of 19°F. It was damn cold. Thankfully, I had only about 15 miles left to end my ride.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDdrJP_1zDUU2dDH0bt-9U-YHS898nI6l3xncIxOx_-dtA-wbTPQmaiL2Es5chgJHqWbJ0DnCMzTaTU9hF7Wu-vZFSPCgrbUGf2nGyNS0pWDbeOr0YuFja9UD1cAPehDTjio31Ughco3K5yQGywF2oZjuI8XD7ELLpdXpU78JDFvpU8_ZlXZT-zejH9g/s3840/gr15.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDdrJP_1zDUU2dDH0bt-9U-YHS898nI6l3xncIxOx_-dtA-wbTPQmaiL2Es5chgJHqWbJ0DnCMzTaTU9hF7Wu-vZFSPCgrbUGf2nGyNS0pWDbeOr0YuFja9UD1cAPehDTjio31Ughco3K5yQGywF2oZjuI8XD7ELLpdXpU78JDFvpU8_ZlXZT-zejH9g/w400-h225/gr15.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Final fuel-up in Cameron (Mile 935)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhTsUvsG8kBaEoK-Hr8T_LYi030lH-dQFi4wRXGpHzzzgaYEjPLGCB_SNFnjUtxqaGyMHJQiMiIT8BG2qD4TVMtsyBdhtlaBNAsa5UcdzuIRymc2u87TxVOghJlebYWWKxVUUbfh8lLs5VOopZCdZ2rudPGfQMBdgOpy2btcf8jRlkKKDxgl1DOuakg/s2148/Screen%20Shot%202023-04-21%20at%2010.09.13%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1788" data-original-width="2148" height="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhTsUvsG8kBaEoK-Hr8T_LYi030lH-dQFi4wRXGpHzzzgaYEjPLGCB_SNFnjUtxqaGyMHJQiMiIT8BG2qD4TVMtsyBdhtlaBNAsa5UcdzuIRymc2u87TxVOghJlebYWWKxVUUbfh8lLs5VOopZCdZ2rudPGfQMBdgOpy2btcf8jRlkKKDxgl1DOuakg/w400-h333/Screen%20Shot%202023-04-21%20at%2010.09.13%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Sunset Crater/Wupatki Detour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I made it back into Flagstaff proper about 15 minutes later and hopped up on I-40 for the 4 miles stretch back home. Incidentally, it was while on this stretch of highway that my odometer actually passed the 1000-mile mark. I was glad I mapped out 1009 miles, as my actual mileage ended up being a bit shorter at 1003.4. I had a little gleeful celebration, let out a loud scream into the wind, and the promptly got off the highway for the final 2 mile ride home. To mark the official end of my ride, I had to stop at a gas station and get one final fuel-up with a stamped receipt. I stopped at the gas station just a 1/2 mile from my house, and once the receipt was printed, I felt as though a huge weight had been lifted. I was done. I had completed my grand (iron butt) ride successfully, and without any incidents. The timing was perfect as I had become aware over the past few miles that I was no longer in a good mental condition, and I had become unsafe to ride.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I took my final photos, stopped my satellite tracker, and then fired up the bike one last time. I putted the 1/2 mile home, pulled the bike into the garage, and then promptly collapsed onto the floor. Eventually, I got up, cleaned myself up, and then was in bed a short time later. While I laid there in bed, I could still feel a phantom buzzing in my fingers.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Some stats:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>My official ride track: <a href="https://share.garmin.com/on2feet">https://share.garmin.com/on2feet</a></li><li>My official end mileage was 1003.4</li><li>My official final time was 20 hours and 12 minutes. </li><li>I used about 20 gallons gas ($90 USD)</li><li>I averaged 50.15 mph</li><li>My longest break was about 15 minutes</li><li>My favorite section was the Coronado Trail (but w/ many close seconds)</li><li>Coldest temp was 19°F</li><li>I wore six layers up top to stay warm</li><li>My upgraded seat (Seat Concepts Brand) was a definitely a huge plus. My backside was never that sore.</li><li>I only got off my intended route one time when I went into the town of Morenci (probably added 1/2 mile)</li><li>Scariest section was definitely the Mormon Mtn ice scare at mile 25.</li><li>I saw three bighorn sheep around mile 700.</li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPZRXngG77nBGOMALeiVcYxYSrwIygMLLVgBHkG8pzegBIw15Z-eoz_R0zZH_R0mfZ4PiNsLMb7_yHIa1LwcntyK3JwJuqCFgEDUUWq9qGQP0uifGFMZ1E_QIiLMZNA5_NA2vrHRnMBQzeNFVfUOckYAsezuK0je43Qxh1kwyrXDu2-XZHKNzde1ssZg/s3840/gr16.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPZRXngG77nBGOMALeiVcYxYSrwIygMLLVgBHkG8pzegBIw15Z-eoz_R0zZH_R0mfZ4PiNsLMb7_yHIa1LwcntyK3JwJuqCFgEDUUWq9qGQP0uifGFMZ1E_QIiLMZNA5_NA2vrHRnMBQzeNFVfUOckYAsezuK0je43Qxh1kwyrXDu2-XZHKNzde1ssZg/w400-h225/gr16.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mile 1000!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPY_6p8HbysIbum3KGHhT57f04nhnCQrcWKqH1bBSbdZnX-B8ZchY0CFSo4VFHigU2sbTlRSOJE9_qEJFY8po2tXK4usgasqI2f3oPA3AXOhjVJcVNX4X-rnCHqncFfc-LrBp1iTVBTtXKYfWAVJt3rQ2MQoVfyQ_1A9ESXNo-R6270RZN33jJkffWg/s1024/FFDCC46B-9A8E-4563-A7E0-EF5134B8B627_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPY_6p8HbysIbum3KGHhT57f04nhnCQrcWKqH1bBSbdZnX-B8ZchY0CFSo4VFHigU2sbTlRSOJE9_qEJFY8po2tXK4usgasqI2f3oPA3AXOhjVJcVNX4X-rnCHqncFfc-LrBp1iTVBTtXKYfWAVJt3rQ2MQoVfyQ_1A9ESXNo-R6270RZN33jJkffWg/w400-h300/FFDCC46B-9A8E-4563-A7E0-EF5134B8B627_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My finish receipt - 11:18 PM</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS9Qieo4vgpSndraU3u6TSm1GKcU3mS849L0VIvUdYS7yDDMs-yLOxhEFoaiYZsoStr9eAo9u0aAiRhhFLvdD6uIaGVQfotkCw71c6eLn1MNAWWRPZdYFTAQcnkfc-lbOLYhaZbOXkc-S0ypb61QvaL1RBK0nEu7WRoUHU2eckGdIHh-IE7sy4uVjl6Q/s3840/gr17.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS9Qieo4vgpSndraU3u6TSm1GKcU3mS849L0VIvUdYS7yDDMs-yLOxhEFoaiYZsoStr9eAo9u0aAiRhhFLvdD6uIaGVQfotkCw71c6eLn1MNAWWRPZdYFTAQcnkfc-lbOLYhaZbOXkc-S0ypb61QvaL1RBK0nEu7WRoUHU2eckGdIHh-IE7sy4uVjl6Q/w400-h225/gr17.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Grand Ride: Complete</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Incidentally, less than 24 hours after the completion of this ride, I drove 5 hours up to Zion National Park and ran a 50K trail race, finishing in 5hrs 42 minutes, and placing 3rd in my age group! What a crazy weekend!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj6ks66LM1VO5PE_z7wVwiPmfXiBJwyIFZLS5gctjbLRHfC26M0RWYgpCUxiEgddoyVh_ihE0Lcymfx64oKnhjcuA8Op_QNgipx5wSX6ifc7lXxVGzejAtasoYT9MzJ21P4R3tVLJ2BGLvyS1J8J-RtBKL6JsxGKMR0B9XyXD5ciWa_kwjuYHRLzXYHUg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj6ks66LM1VO5PE_z7wVwiPmfXiBJwyIFZLS5gctjbLRHfC26M0RWYgpCUxiEgddoyVh_ihE0Lcymfx64oKnhjcuA8Op_QNgipx5wSX6ifc7lXxVGzejAtasoYT9MzJ21P4R3tVLJ2BGLvyS1J8J-RtBKL6JsxGKMR0B9XyXD5ciWa_kwjuYHRLzXYHUg=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mile 3 at the Zion 50K</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMPXenKmYcm-MvhQpoY9B9yTnRsQPUKh97Sx0xiANcnwv_zhAx3WPsQiKiiMBJa5MFCjii-hJfbIU4iDjVVRVVRfvJOiruBVvoOIsNlHAGfvlQ-tXeFi5RCCrgQGloDun5ywJ9_XOV2AsqufFzBQ32v-RvXGbsDX12NPv54LHzbxn1RN_PMoN_ALT1CA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMPXenKmYcm-MvhQpoY9B9yTnRsQPUKh97Sx0xiANcnwv_zhAx3WPsQiKiiMBJa5MFCjii-hJfbIU4iDjVVRVVRfvJOiruBVvoOIsNlHAGfvlQ-tXeFi5RCCrgQGloDun5ywJ9_XOV2AsqufFzBQ32v-RvXGbsDX12NPv54LHzbxn1RN_PMoN_ALT1CA=w400-h266" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mile 15 at the Zion 50K</div></div><p></p>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-14799037130014012862023-02-05T19:51:00.040-05:002023-07-19T15:10:16.308-04:00The Quest for 100 Ultramarathons<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOnVfMfhN1ruosw8XK7sN7BxP-zJ3gVBvwqK3aZGA1dicc8kUiqnPoOibLn7EEp-mQp801ZguNt9x9bPofPvlk3o-6WUgUANXh_GSAgpmDptfUoSQo1vRrXNpu8eRycMVrkm-91iOPC1LxilGaSU_GFQSVkq2rDMjYTakh-YxBXztWWdkZ2hx70feqqg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOnVfMfhN1ruosw8XK7sN7BxP-zJ3gVBvwqK3aZGA1dicc8kUiqnPoOibLn7EEp-mQp801ZguNt9x9bPofPvlk3o-6WUgUANXh_GSAgpmDptfUoSQo1vRrXNpu8eRycMVrkm-91iOPC1LxilGaSU_GFQSVkq2rDMjYTakh-YxBXztWWdkZ2hx70feqqg=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><u>2009 Leadville Trail 100 - Ultra #5</u></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was going through my list of upcoming races recently, and a random question popped into my mind. That question was,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"It's been 15 years since I ran my first ultra in 2008. How many total <u><i>ultras</i></u> have I now completed?"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With my Western States and Hardrock "Double" coming up on the calendar, and an already intense training regimen these past two months, I thought it would be fun to see where I stand with respect to my "ultra resume". I can certainly go to Ultrasignup and get a quick estimate of completed races there, but not every run I've finished is recorded on that site, nor is every race that is listed, necessarily an ultra distance. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For the record, an "Ultra" distance race, simply means any official race that is LONGER than the standard 26.2 mile marathon distance. Some might argue that a run needs to be at least a 50k (31.1 Miles), but as far as the metric I use and standby, the distance just needs to be longer than a marathon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I started to go back and tally up my racing resume, I did decide on a few rules.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Obviously, a race only counts if I finish. If I quit a 50 miler at mile 30 for example. I would not count it.</li><li>I would only count races with official finish times. No training runs or personal journey runs of over 26.2 miles would count. If I couldn't look up a published, and publicly available finish time, I didn't count it.</li><li>Along these lines, I did not count thru-hikes, FKT attempts, R2R2Rs, or other similar treks.</li><li>I would not count cumulative events totaling more than 26.2 miles, nor would I count events where I was on a relay team. Only single events that are more than 26.2 miles make the list. An example of this is I ran a Quad-Marathon event, where I did 4 separate marathons across 4 days. While the total was over 100 miles, each individual event was still only a marathon. </li><li>During one full event, I did run two separately tracked 50 km races, with two separate results. I count both of these in my results.</li><li>I do not count "heavy" marathons (i.e. marathons that are slightly over). As we all know, most trail marathons come up a bit long. But, since a trail marathon is still a "marathon", I did not count them.</li><li>There was one event that I did that was in a definite grey area. It was an event that was partially marketed as a fat-ass style run, but also had official results listed in Ultrasignup. I chose to count it, since a public finish list is available and the run required a legitimate registration.</li><li>I did not count instances where I paced for another runner over 26.2 miles as I was not officially registered for that race, or eligible to be considered a finisher.</li><li>There were two events that I ran, that I did officially complete over 26.2 miles, and appeared in finisher time lists, BUT, also don't really count as a true finisher. The examples of this are my 2014 Barkley Fun Run and my 2016 Big's Backyard Ultra. I chose not to count either.</li><li>For any Timed events (e.g. 6-hour, 12-hour, etc), I had to finish at least 27 official complete miles for it to count in my final list.</li></ul></div><div>So, now that all of the tallying is complete, where do I stand? As of this past weekend, and my completion at the Elephant Mountain 50K, I now sit at <b><u>93 Total (and completed) Ultras.</u> </b>With this number now tallied, and triple-checked, I have a new and rather attainable goal I've decided to set for myself:</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b>I have set up my training schedule this spring so that my running of the Western States / Hardrock double, coincides with my 99th and 100th Ultras. This of course assumes that I not only complete both races, but also five additional ultras in my training block. </b></u></div><div><br /></div><div>I think this a legitimately attainable goal, and now that I know the numbers, I am incredibly excited to have this very tangible objective to aim for.</div><div><br /></div><div>On top of that, I can now aim to make my biggest goal race of the year (The Hardrock 100)...also my 100th ultra! <i>The Hardrock Hundred Hundred</i> as it were. Having my 2nd running of the Hardrock, mark my 100th overall ultra would be amazing!</div><div><br /></div><div>With all this said, I thought it would be fun to go through the list with you all, with photo highlights. Sadly, I don't have action pictures from every event, although I did find at least one relevant photo for most.</div><div><br /></div><div>But first, a few quick stats and notes:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>This list represents over 7300 total race miles run</li><li>I placed in the top 3 in over 20 of these events</li><li>I had 4 outright wins</li><li>Of this list, a third (33) were 100-milers</li><li>I've repeated Mountain Masochist the most (6x), followed by Finger Lakes Fifties (5x)</li><li>Leadville Trail 100 and Oil Creek 100 are my most repeated 100-Milers (4x)</li><li>Longest Ultra was Vol State Road Race (500 km)</li><li>Shortest Ultra was the TARCkey Trot 6 hr at 27.9 Miles</li><li>Best Ultra I did that didn't make the list - South Pole Unofficial 50-Miler</li><li>Most Active Years - 2011 - 2014</li><li>Best Personal Performance - Barkley (trail) - Spartathlon (road)</li><li>Closest finish to cut-off - Mountain Masochist : 11:53:42</li><li>Favorite Ultra - Impossible to name just one, but if I had to, Barkley, Hardrock, or Spartathlon</li></ul><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>1 - 9/28/08 - Vermont 50 - 50 Miler : 11:18:27 - My First Ultra</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj_vXe1Wa4RwARUvhge-mYYfdK95AcWezWMd0rG34TH84vdjG6JLuvh5o9EwYdgD0vwSm6q6UYlKLdvfMo4kn8tEkWLIYGTzOOnC0vHSucv9AuWBFb1iWwhCztupH5eY62-JIKIdknPqlJ2s-Tz5_Qrmghex1aUbkzluEB1imP74aOrvJHcE0a63CT6wg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><b><img alt="" data-original-height="1369" data-original-width="1044" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj_vXe1Wa4RwARUvhge-mYYfdK95AcWezWMd0rG34TH84vdjG6JLuvh5o9EwYdgD0vwSm6q6UYlKLdvfMo4kn8tEkWLIYGTzOOnC0vHSucv9AuWBFb1iWwhCztupH5eY62-JIKIdknPqlJ2s-Tz5_Qrmghex1aUbkzluEB1imP74aOrvJHcE0a63CT6wg=w244-h320" width="244" /></b></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b>2 - 11/2/08 - New England Ultra - 50 Miler : 11:55:00</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>This event no longer exists</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhHjDeUR3gqhEt0DjH6BSrJr7dY6FIp805vbtcwIf6M3HBYvpyoqoEPOkkQVNG7XPdUgsaHKP6FpJvKpFcaF2EpcT-LhVkifq-1TaGC5-kcPdwfZyU8DGXwrAE5KCfKkR15mPRuXTnf2GFvREAebfXeEp436tYOX3sxz9kVk3fCCTXvgpK4yOqSEXI0RA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><b><img alt="" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="2304" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhHjDeUR3gqhEt0DjH6BSrJr7dY6FIp805vbtcwIf6M3HBYvpyoqoEPOkkQVNG7XPdUgsaHKP6FpJvKpFcaF2EpcT-LhVkifq-1TaGC5-kcPdwfZyU8DGXwrAE5KCfKkR15mPRuXTnf2GFvREAebfXeEp436tYOX3sxz9kVk3fCCTXvgpK4yOqSEXI0RA=w240-h320" width="240" /></b></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>3 - 7/4/09 - Finger Lakes Fifties - 50 Miler : 10:34:06</b></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgOshXzYJ8jVO4uRQai9jk9-O9yvzne22LmI4zIr78Hd2LEmmOWinO1s6JilNEo1FQAIor85C1q-QyGgNodBoVE5pwuZLuT68enQGYwmjZHXMFnx-I7jkTQNGQ2S7YoLBII9KZHmlmix82Yuyz29Kz7BTLLTYTQt9PFh_L_dTm1XsRsU4N5dVsvlwOsag" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><b><img alt="" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgOshXzYJ8jVO4uRQai9jk9-O9yvzne22LmI4zIr78Hd2LEmmOWinO1s6JilNEo1FQAIor85C1q-QyGgNodBoVE5pwuZLuT68enQGYwmjZHXMFnx-I7jkTQNGQ2S7YoLBII9KZHmlmix82Yuyz29Kz7BTLLTYTQt9PFh_L_dTm1XsRsU4N5dVsvlwOsag=w240-h320" width="240" /></b></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>4 - 7/18/09 - Vermont 100 - 100 Miler : 23:15:07</b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiknLolFVkQeuxaD9oKFS32UguJqOJh7ma-XTig2my3NnqjMwBuPVMJ8wHW4cRwzq8E3eVJoJpQZyWLNsUyJueN0YsyosDGShmUY34NTb8G-O2MlCwhXWlCYSMhVPdG-vRR7sqamz57sFfyVulNiHjj2EPp6iEDeWqbDD555k-8kXDhtRLnsC8wVGyUKA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1413" data-original-width="987" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiknLolFVkQeuxaD9oKFS32UguJqOJh7ma-XTig2my3NnqjMwBuPVMJ8wHW4cRwzq8E3eVJoJpQZyWLNsUyJueN0YsyosDGShmUY34NTb8G-O2MlCwhXWlCYSMhVPdG-vRR7sqamz57sFfyVulNiHjj2EPp6iEDeWqbDD555k-8kXDhtRLnsC8wVGyUKA=w224-h320" width="224" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>5 - 8/22/09 - Leadville Trail 100 - 100 Miler : 29:13:11</b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEig_PxNs42POaIZe-e95AIyeJBzTPp7HTfn5um488WB9odQlXC0eS_QDo6saiL1Z-ZY8ozFlkdbiU8kbWI6I9HsjzFBWup14BLzfGAo8i_bOVJ2uO6nNOsR5Mcy8O8Z81JSB9-MB4AweVuZu3MvSn_shju81-NVbb7aQEkomuWVGSJ84uTktI26Tw4JHA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2069" data-original-width="1481" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEig_PxNs42POaIZe-e95AIyeJBzTPp7HTfn5um488WB9odQlXC0eS_QDo6saiL1Z-ZY8ozFlkdbiU8kbWI6I9HsjzFBWup14BLzfGAo8i_bOVJ2uO6nNOsR5Mcy8O8Z81JSB9-MB4AweVuZu3MvSn_shju81-NVbb7aQEkomuWVGSJ84uTktI26Tw4JHA=w229-h320" width="229" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">6 - 9/27/09 - Vermont 50 - 50 Miler : 10:37:34<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjttlpuHDIT5epH9r0TbhYl9DJ5zNOL0WyuUcIMzWn5LNoClzE448Je_DdfAOFyOdc6QYSbbWa0w_C46xzHcyMM7sNE8uqLdqjj2wmQ0TBSU7x8BXbFwYW5OhIz1g5xRYXBt94SRQWk1Mp2RKxz5R10-sO8um432qJJYHmj9D4LgN65F4h1nVVXgjC8vQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjttlpuHDIT5epH9r0TbhYl9DJ5zNOL0WyuUcIMzWn5LNoClzE448Je_DdfAOFyOdc6QYSbbWa0w_C46xzHcyMM7sNE8uqLdqjj2wmQ0TBSU7x8BXbFwYW5OhIz1g5xRYXBt94SRQWk1Mp2RKxz5R10-sO8um432qJJYHmj9D4LgN65F4h1nVVXgjC8vQ=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">7 - 6/11/11 - Laurel Highlands Ultra - 50 Km : 5:54:33<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh3cmNnocGBgHTyBj_WFAZALDjpA8vw9tO8sVhTPHeiVj3BMyY6BmuQSlxFLE1afeaK7wCxnOaj6OxGp-RCdd2c1hRZJlHzrBz37X0JzDkwfCy7mRZvF1b-zHbjrZIAEsgumOxm5mQlTZLJYkBN9W-wQrBWFsEWWNb_WDe3AjvodfeAhNC7axWHSnCUTQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh3cmNnocGBgHTyBj_WFAZALDjpA8vw9tO8sVhTPHeiVj3BMyY6BmuQSlxFLE1afeaK7wCxnOaj6OxGp-RCdd2c1hRZJlHzrBz37X0JzDkwfCy7mRZvF1b-zHbjrZIAEsgumOxm5mQlTZLJYkBN9W-wQrBWFsEWWNb_WDe3AjvodfeAhNC7axWHSnCUTQ=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">8 - 7/2/11 - Finger Lakes Fifties - 50 Miler : 9:20:05</div></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJdxcCHwtret7tQPweZVMjX2nvBeqFKPXvqviqQh8WoJQiBkHTQgRxJ5dLFFiNxr3D25fCimM2ZDDB2SJ204v4ZWM4w7db685_MMw4RIRpniF43n5a835BpqwOK6E5ZOphE04PIJMMmfoSpWNLMniYzTGXvUMJ4Yd8SDxlvPF0E_Gofhdnu5vcnMNBqg" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 238); font-weight: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2112" data-original-width="2816" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJdxcCHwtret7tQPweZVMjX2nvBeqFKPXvqviqQh8WoJQiBkHTQgRxJ5dLFFiNxr3D25fCimM2ZDDB2SJ204v4ZWM4w7db685_MMw4RIRpniF43n5a835BpqwOK6E5ZOphE04PIJMMmfoSpWNLMniYzTGXvUMJ4Yd8SDxlvPF0E_Gofhdnu5vcnMNBqg=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">9 - 7/16/11 - Vermont 100 - 100 Miler : 21:48:16</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhdUe5qH9d1UFq6-oDItAy8yi5_0dw1ZiBrfCLnfK2z8-MelcvdFSWFmBBzsDEi2vrKFuTV4TbggmR2OW4okF0i0RLLbq7oC8XT5fHYhTWS2v8loGhvU9vkkpUF5lceWa1Ze-AwTKHdrzkkl73kTJMNhsk-Xrb3_cNRx34aEHmmP7yDtiSaU9wYKbDFJw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1638" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhdUe5qH9d1UFq6-oDItAy8yi5_0dw1ZiBrfCLnfK2z8-MelcvdFSWFmBBzsDEi2vrKFuTV4TbggmR2OW4okF0i0RLLbq7oC8XT5fHYhTWS2v8loGhvU9vkkpUF5lceWa1Ze-AwTKHdrzkkl73kTJMNhsk-Xrb3_cNRx34aEHmmP7yDtiSaU9wYKbDFJw=w256-h320" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>10 - 8/20/11 - Leadville Trail 100 - 100 Miler : 25:36:21</b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEir25QJow8i8pmLrHDvMbdpl1Fe3DhDmtukrx7zQUKYO3txn0lbhbHr8TdCAp3HDyKZcqFZa61nYiMYaFBS_S6EAwxJOUpeBb-e_OJy-Ds4gaQY0xk3u0CJK2Swfmfp1stHWxS6ZvGM40xCNOvtWw7gDVkWVR8-mXeTfrrRxDLPqoULTTSiX2fNiOEjaw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="3600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEir25QJow8i8pmLrHDvMbdpl1Fe3DhDmtukrx7zQUKYO3txn0lbhbHr8TdCAp3HDyKZcqFZa61nYiMYaFBS_S6EAwxJOUpeBb-e_OJy-Ds4gaQY0xk3u0CJK2Swfmfp1stHWxS6ZvGM40xCNOvtWw7gDVkWVR8-mXeTfrrRxDLPqoULTTSiX2fNiOEjaw=w320-h213" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>11 - 9/25/11 - Vermont 50 - 50 Miler : 8:42:11</b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgM4rstVUY5mz437QrazmcxmgljvQRIsXionMWhOkB_Imnr9PQM4jJDQsVp8CIUfsa9wiPDAakw59u6aIEeFFJ7e0nBbKqI97pEw6vjSMVSkqjTlwgQ0Wp65G0Q4SG741cYX_37LlaE4zKjD76T90dwu8kHV5Wl3-2g5Tm8rPWm5XS-DLs7I7n0Rsox0A" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="666" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgM4rstVUY5mz437QrazmcxmgljvQRIsXionMWhOkB_Imnr9PQM4jJDQsVp8CIUfsa9wiPDAakw59u6aIEeFFJ7e0nBbKqI97pEw6vjSMVSkqjTlwgQ0Wp65G0Q4SG741cYX_37LlaE4zKjD76T90dwu8kHV5Wl3-2g5Tm8rPWm5XS-DLs7I7n0Rsox0A=w213-h320" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">12 - 10/8/11 - Oil Creek 100 - 100 Miler : 21:51:53</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhTeCGM874NbCPfXjWEnvVzAR44tWQ2CipnJ6YOHW8aO_XQmEY0hwby-cg942d3CwK2NCZC9pmpXFbF6hXvdrolCo5dU7zLWz2riUsRbRbXKgQWlhWZRqS8N4u8wpy3HGQckbVobpuEXTbKf_jjyWhj7ia6B_dlSCxlrVaxzbYKFd3I-bzoJGGHpyJBUQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1224" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhTeCGM874NbCPfXjWEnvVzAR44tWQ2CipnJ6YOHW8aO_XQmEY0hwby-cg942d3CwK2NCZC9pmpXFbF6hXvdrolCo5dU7zLWz2riUsRbRbXKgQWlhWZRqS8N4u8wpy3HGQckbVobpuEXTbKf_jjyWhj7ia6B_dlSCxlrVaxzbYKFd3I-bzoJGGHpyJBUQ=w320-h213" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">13 - 10/23/11 - Tussey mOUnTaiNBACK - 50 Miler : 7:49:50<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgOSGkpyKacnrimh6EEykpvHWOG7KskF71fGWSBuER5dq61aY3_e7HgIPmnFpLrO0OBoOcfsXgbWvVlH16QaEIzOuIla0NvHhLKb94lVal3guhdt9zraOmgVKRQtlcMNJwC8wyLa0f9-MLxhN2VQi5aiXi1_2sigUzzoSOTobLrwbaAbBRjh0obH4Lzw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgOSGkpyKacnrimh6EEykpvHWOG7KskF71fGWSBuER5dq61aY3_e7HgIPmnFpLrO0OBoOcfsXgbWvVlH16QaEIzOuIla0NvHhLKb94lVal3guhdt9zraOmgVKRQtlcMNJwC8wyLa0f9-MLxhN2VQi5aiXi1_2sigUzzoSOTobLrwbaAbBRjh0obH4Lzw=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">14 - 3/31/12 - <b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;">The Barkley Marathons - 100 Miler : 59:41:21</div></div></div></div></div></div></b></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKVL2lx91WtZA8d8Nrhvb1_BJFfqinpAaBxAcnyIsOY61sddER8Kwj2CY_-QwtEPibzK2UgMkNEuTeWLr7eHaA55crFA5lZjg4Hbwe7S5FhO-ESaV25XWerCxtIJ8WzqjAZCjdV0YrjqvXzOAmlhYcKlayWNS_2wxj8ECywS5a7u3eavClbNLVs6I1Xg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKVL2lx91WtZA8d8Nrhvb1_BJFfqinpAaBxAcnyIsOY61sddER8Kwj2CY_-QwtEPibzK2UgMkNEuTeWLr7eHaA55crFA5lZjg4Hbwe7S5FhO-ESaV25XWerCxtIJ8WzqjAZCjdV0YrjqvXzOAmlhYcKlayWNS_2wxj8ECywS5a7u3eavClbNLVs6I1Xg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">15 - 4/21/12 - Hyner View Challenge - 50 Km : 6:04:20</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLTvY-ZJ8vMd2C3PRTc1HZrZbgAurWrvw0JMXNFbWPuMDhQuryofz-jSEDBPA2UAfK3fo9ZaRorGRrcE7JvWEl2bS5--0ijXsgBoUpoC_mPK4dZpdWaGOQpFRGoulWBWTlromtUvfZj5s3JAAT-hO4xjyGrMtCbPshDpLsmGzKTqt_eCG6Ec0P928fWA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="958" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLTvY-ZJ8vMd2C3PRTc1HZrZbgAurWrvw0JMXNFbWPuMDhQuryofz-jSEDBPA2UAfK3fo9ZaRorGRrcE7JvWEl2bS5--0ijXsgBoUpoC_mPK4dZpdWaGOQpFRGoulWBWTlromtUvfZj5s3JAAT-hO4xjyGrMtCbPshDpLsmGzKTqt_eCG6Ec0P928fWA=w400-h206" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">16 - 5/12/12 - Massanutten Mountain Trail 100 - 100 Miler : 26:26:12</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjEQ6AlX8_rGjR-2LAhi59FqV3GbDQXYh8k2yKbV7RCKe16iHdZ1nnl_yeIX0pJA0lzs3bepuSRguri4iO1nlBHIx3T_GzqS2-MQh2-L6fBTpmLfq8HVsjAKY8xnErqcb-NcehCdO8_N8kAyxkxoOT6ZBIVElHmT_GlmgU9SFR3tcBTk1LFzEhzCL3APw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2342" data-original-width="1611" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjEQ6AlX8_rGjR-2LAhi59FqV3GbDQXYh8k2yKbV7RCKe16iHdZ1nnl_yeIX0pJA0lzs3bepuSRguri4iO1nlBHIx3T_GzqS2-MQh2-L6fBTpmLfq8HVsjAKY8xnErqcb-NcehCdO8_N8kAyxkxoOT6ZBIVElHmT_GlmgU9SFR3tcBTk1LFzEhzCL3APw=w220-h320" width="220" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">17 - 6/30/12 - Finger Lakes Fifties - 8:54:21</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgYt2SeDxEAnw_ekwce0tCjfNYOKepjOwMTedw_LUrUbTLCVf8W-unqQ8UE8wC__UWBEweVs8SGK7CMHKY23T6nnEyltxZJhq574KIfT26kxDLUy8EIEJ6sUOEqWHDXOsDqxFq37BpRNEHPI5z-Jzz-QuEExF4bBjxoYItQv898A5FEoRZjduZxMuSXPg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="583" data-original-width="494" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgYt2SeDxEAnw_ekwce0tCjfNYOKepjOwMTedw_LUrUbTLCVf8W-unqQ8UE8wC__UWBEweVs8SGK7CMHKY23T6nnEyltxZJhq574KIfT26kxDLUy8EIEJ6sUOEqWHDXOsDqxFq37BpRNEHPI5z-Jzz-QuEExF4bBjxoYItQv898A5FEoRZjduZxMuSXPg=w271-h320" width="271" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">18 - 7/16/12 - Badwater Ultramarathon - 135 Miler : 38:06:00</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivKPr5M57iYiQESpSNqA3jx9gLYBN6yxu70Ydna3c6LKXY-dvrkSwE9_vKDk64xgey726S4pKJ18j2F6jRicFc5OMA2lAbf57SZWLQjJuW8nlQbYakp-77fd7xMgYyUWdj8f_k5sHIGoR_GoMGAW1x-ufioxExGdxjgt1klUr9r74WHFsjLb_5lRlP5w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="487" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivKPr5M57iYiQESpSNqA3jx9gLYBN6yxu70Ydna3c6LKXY-dvrkSwE9_vKDk64xgey726S4pKJ18j2F6jRicFc5OMA2lAbf57SZWLQjJuW8nlQbYakp-77fd7xMgYyUWdj8f_k5sHIGoR_GoMGAW1x-ufioxExGdxjgt1klUr9r74WHFsjLb_5lRlP5w=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">19 - 8/18/12 - Leadville Trail 100 - 100 Miler : 24:17:24</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEincCe-dMg9oLqVidRvadHGHC2BQT-SA_n7v8yJ7ZZOykYCzUonXbeUtZCsDwSY6_dwzaBFxSIp9DiyH3zoEotQuWl-_3gvUl-06fOWmv34YPW3Z55FQOfytQlNy6eLX3ALRVjtHwQcT2DZd5jP5-8R8XUBPgsZfg7YP0answrOU49jPJPCUHkOYya1dg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="2304" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEincCe-dMg9oLqVidRvadHGHC2BQT-SA_n7v8yJ7ZZOykYCzUonXbeUtZCsDwSY6_dwzaBFxSIp9DiyH3zoEotQuWl-_3gvUl-06fOWmv34YPW3Z55FQOfytQlNy6eLX3ALRVjtHwQcT2DZd5jP5-8R8XUBPgsZfg7YP0answrOU49jPJPCUHkOYya1dg=w213-h320" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>20 - 9/8/12 - Pine Creek Challenge - 100 Km : 10:22:00</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>*First outright win*</i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj-VFUL3qYnedQ9c8MCeycw6CRRFIsL885V9ykVrOkZsopQQz91cuynFGk7aNz_iuqFzkduWcngR9oTVh6Y1UGn7P_TvHxZfT5PMs4bB62f_tledPX7GiRy8O38pMhEqm18p8yJTdINocgs8G0fhrm9wUh-Vd9TgvRwVLBtoompDJ1ug-HE6RbvtwIGcQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj-VFUL3qYnedQ9c8MCeycw6CRRFIsL885V9ykVrOkZsopQQz91cuynFGk7aNz_iuqFzkduWcngR9oTVh6Y1UGn7P_TvHxZfT5PMs4bB62f_tledPX7GiRy8O38pMhEqm18p8yJTdINocgs8G0fhrm9wUh-Vd9TgvRwVLBtoompDJ1ug-HE6RbvtwIGcQ=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">21 - 10/13/12 - Oil Creek 100 - 100 Miler : 21:43:23</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgsx1G_32TlJwtLjIIzdJAd_r-IRsVRBvlGDzm5U9XCuR56U2qVkXXC-dUxpBHvudckzzH9yuCY3V3nYmAe9Xm5lSZCuq_sFInTwwe3MR9BPceTeepbJO0E-0cFCNL2D6_vvCOLFYFPt1NmQWe393Rik-wPNe-ty7PcZXB7v9p4oVUWZYroYcU5UXmoBQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgsx1G_32TlJwtLjIIzdJAd_r-IRsVRBvlGDzm5U9XCuR56U2qVkXXC-dUxpBHvudckzzH9yuCY3V3nYmAe9Xm5lSZCuq_sFInTwwe3MR9BPceTeepbJO0E-0cFCNL2D6_vvCOLFYFPt1NmQWe393Rik-wPNe-ty7PcZXB7v9p4oVUWZYroYcU5UXmoBQ=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">22 - 10/28/12 - Fire on the Mountain - 50 Km : 5:40:54</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEja6J2_a6IYTEoxxuVbPJpsx9nIN4lDWnfUwFybWbk3A2Xgq_WEU6SUgeeHpQyfoeYIdVs5ucWvI6iuhV0T1ibH8HaXId5toAZN4QiRPa2NDtbl-rBLWBe0nr-ClFILN9KqBaTdxCzalItb-GbgccWK73WKlbf0g58Y5dDU4_mUXUXXwcPziEr_hspZHw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEja6J2_a6IYTEoxxuVbPJpsx9nIN4lDWnfUwFybWbk3A2Xgq_WEU6SUgeeHpQyfoeYIdVs5ucWvI6iuhV0T1ibH8HaXId5toAZN4QiRPa2NDtbl-rBLWBe0nr-ClFILN9KqBaTdxCzalItb-GbgccWK73WKlbf0g58Y5dDU4_mUXUXXwcPziEr_hspZHw=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">23 - 4/20/13 - Hyner View Challenge - 50 Km : 5:44:25</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHxlgNqDn0LxfPWnYJQYEOH0Nvcf7vwdXVMay2K6CjKFoOr-lFnvtIUAMktV_e4idv7QIqMMeEWdKPoYxNvKWhg1idL3ykLmoc0XxYhUdNOKcKyrXoixk67x7O5OIWSrJzbkZiLsZ39Pyr6mew5Qj9dAkDc1S8RXqvulJrC-lM-IezxgbTYQJ8xTCBdg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="357" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHxlgNqDn0LxfPWnYJQYEOH0Nvcf7vwdXVMay2K6CjKFoOr-lFnvtIUAMktV_e4idv7QIqMMeEWdKPoYxNvKWhg1idL3ykLmoc0XxYhUdNOKcKyrXoixk67x7O5OIWSrJzbkZiLsZ39Pyr6mew5Qj9dAkDc1S8RXqvulJrC-lM-IezxgbTYQJ8xTCBdg=w228-h320" width="228" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">24 - 5/16/23 - 3 Days at the Fair - 72 hr : 231 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMwEpBRSbJjxyY8dC58aT_QNPXE3i2Mo1UQM14bABVS4CvFTzIuW733beM6itYFn66bNG5_bAmvpuX6dpbshXoZTBKRc4QOrHD8GY-haxZGvYKtaZ_9__1W18uQnMja6xboUioglvzVWMv0WDDpL7rlSA0aVd_wOe6GajFEOplSclhdDBQ_93TvA8gaA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="1024" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMwEpBRSbJjxyY8dC58aT_QNPXE3i2Mo1UQM14bABVS4CvFTzIuW733beM6itYFn66bNG5_bAmvpuX6dpbshXoZTBKRc4QOrHD8GY-haxZGvYKtaZ_9__1W18uQnMja6xboUioglvzVWMv0WDDpL7rlSA0aVd_wOe6GajFEOplSclhdDBQ_93TvA8gaA=w320-h214" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">25 - 7/6/13 - Finger Lakes Fifties - 50 Miler : 9:39:52</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJ9BpyBDUrOA3QyoKpo1WW5vzP4eaLUxXTOAkvN_UbUxzRiIZ1w9y23ZhxWbgrh1iSWQl7WU5AMxUV17SXcx9ZK9PsrS8kXlBYNYpUZ6sSm2zJ4ppUrBzyVdWL-9gIQreBv_qCeUFLpVXhEyVzNrjSg59ICyikJZk5tlv64dgsK2O2tIMlym6oZpSr-g" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiJ9BpyBDUrOA3QyoKpo1WW5vzP4eaLUxXTOAkvN_UbUxzRiIZ1w9y23ZhxWbgrh1iSWQl7WU5AMxUV17SXcx9ZK9PsrS8kXlBYNYpUZ6sSm2zJ4ppUrBzyVdWL-9gIQreBv_qCeUFLpVXhEyVzNrjSg59ICyikJZk5tlv64dgsK2O2tIMlym6oZpSr-g=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">26 - 7/11/13 - Last Annual Vol State Road Run - 314 Miler : 112:19:01</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdom2dZKrrFvOTU9CNtU8vPl6073K5i1BBnyMOoLSs-YXvkJVN5ZT34QwbY0DCqVF8L8jckSbZl5UCKYaEdJKfy6ibexfJHlpD9F1wlj3FH2DEUD2_8aeVj-fH8S15T4HwVLBQTCbZ5P3XUZ3aHMZSo3OxCUJ8UARQvLxXaCnNWQjpaOMwWbBlsCeR5Q" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2967" data-original-width="4466" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdom2dZKrrFvOTU9CNtU8vPl6073K5i1BBnyMOoLSs-YXvkJVN5ZT34QwbY0DCqVF8L8jckSbZl5UCKYaEdJKfy6ibexfJHlpD9F1wlj3FH2DEUD2_8aeVj-fH8S15T4HwVLBQTCbZ5P3XUZ3aHMZSo3OxCUJ8UARQvLxXaCnNWQjpaOMwWbBlsCeR5Q=w320-h213" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">27 - 7/27/13 - Allegheny Front Trail - 50 Km : 4:58:46</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><i style="font-weight: normal;">This event no longer exists</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi_mjAED4VYVfBpgMuo_ENd7ZXA6E8cRGMhS-veIAxi8lyfs0ASO0GFjJbTXTsGartsY_wNjpFkCaOeZjeOvamU585UsBOKtQ7C8l7RiHAVd_zps3m4qji1_0QPfcw9Qp0AvgKIPuZcwhCr6lX5HeMbOukcGkhU4TgFygA270HrNVOiJ-ZQCr2dAZl7Fw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="180" data-original-width="320" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi_mjAED4VYVfBpgMuo_ENd7ZXA6E8cRGMhS-veIAxi8lyfs0ASO0GFjJbTXTsGartsY_wNjpFkCaOeZjeOvamU585UsBOKtQ7C8l7RiHAVd_zps3m4qji1_0QPfcw9Qp0AvgKIPuZcwhCr6lX5HeMbOukcGkhU4TgFygA270HrNVOiJ-ZQCr2dAZl7Fw=w320-h180" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">28 - 8/17/13 - Leadville Trail 100 - 100 Miler : 24:47:19</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpswjMQLULIJMp2TmYZ9tmplqfUsvkjkjnPKLnGNBJdSOaLFO7oemXm9HryK6BGwauyyIxPtlPl_qQD-qvtDMvI1MMk24-4s-6o77C3puxDjpxLvhTS_7ROGWeSfeRjGhYY3NDJqVEKnHt9K4fkY_YnTuS46iyaUZQ72iUMAaliPWb4jzHc8TNxvpt5w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="3072" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpswjMQLULIJMp2TmYZ9tmplqfUsvkjkjnPKLnGNBJdSOaLFO7oemXm9HryK6BGwauyyIxPtlPl_qQD-qvtDMvI1MMk24-4s-6o77C3puxDjpxLvhTS_7ROGWeSfeRjGhYY3NDJqVEKnHt9K4fkY_YnTuS46iyaUZQ72iUMAaliPWb4jzHc8TNxvpt5w=w320-h213" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">29 - 9/8/13 - Pine Creek Challenge - 100 Km : 10:51:57</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiZSna9p9ijrOHsxUNZ7GO3xeimgPfYNbcA0bnGYwBsSxzXTawKS9JmKL6OWOSPRBC1GVMzTQKUURVsgB2nL50ILaWRo9N3wXO89W4S_NS2RyYOVMAoDFKbBfSX9Dzj_T7o6gq5u23g-HPG8qdWLA9thjsUD2YJ1hDk9dvobddaG_vziYw-4kU9FxY9tw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="826" data-original-width="1246" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiZSna9p9ijrOHsxUNZ7GO3xeimgPfYNbcA0bnGYwBsSxzXTawKS9JmKL6OWOSPRBC1GVMzTQKUURVsgB2nL50ILaWRo9N3wXO89W4S_NS2RyYOVMAoDFKbBfSX9Dzj_T7o6gq5u23g-HPG8qdWLA9thjsUD2YJ1hDk9dvobddaG_vziYw-4kU9FxY9tw=w320-h212" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">30 - 9/22/13 - Virgil Crest - 50 Km : 6:24:00</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2d0rqbDk6T_kI3o8jTDxTTRw8edzYLjQvMzBVpydUKjemBlEIKD5G_HdpCg-ovw29g0C08nNTVA4GOs0oU-kGZofqiC2arcwh0b26yCkIijbTPnvldiFmNdBZ_eYlZ_4voyff_zaq0sD8v7nXWrnRL08Q8phxWwoDQSFtU9foI_DrQAjyOIQMo1cIKA"><img alt="" data-original-height="558" data-original-width="1024" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2d0rqbDk6T_kI3o8jTDxTTRw8edzYLjQvMzBVpydUKjemBlEIKD5G_HdpCg-ovw29g0C08nNTVA4GOs0oU-kGZofqiC2arcwh0b26yCkIijbTPnvldiFmNdBZ_eYlZ_4voyff_zaq0sD8v7nXWrnRL08Q8phxWwoDQSFtU9foI_DrQAjyOIQMo1cIKA=w320-h174" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">31 - 10/5/13 - Oil Creek 100 - 100 Miler : 23:46:47</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhiSfkuzl2RbPFNzvgyLFJsxOsvsJ4oGIImQccCwQa_7sKwd8uTZQ3TgMTEWXlJfUHHT9wleDLoyftYz6dWZBlNGs_8uu2uheGcndGaz77Cq8RJxIiY8i39GU5e11nP9sKeyf-xzIwiAc7PGiPn2_7WcOsS-btrQoZ8xp9-EVzk1_V-hHw5TS80pwso7A" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="412" data-original-width="550" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhiSfkuzl2RbPFNzvgyLFJsxOsvsJ4oGIImQccCwQa_7sKwd8uTZQ3TgMTEWXlJfUHHT9wleDLoyftYz6dWZBlNGs_8uu2uheGcndGaz77Cq8RJxIiY8i39GU5e11nP9sKeyf-xzIwiAc7PGiPn2_7WcOsS-btrQoZ8xp9-EVzk1_V-hHw5TS80pwso7A=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">32 - 10/20/13 - Tussey mOUnTaiNBACK - 50 Miler : 8:27:07</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrvxmDRguc0W3V_OtTlvbdPrcfmyLM8BRk0SZFPx0HVl6c_8WLYqai9swzvM_wItcxJhrzSJvuAhl4GNXzFRE57sJNuuZN-df2j2ie18sx7Rb-DewSmeKNOC27zb9tup-UQy3ZOF9v1zaE4C1azzdzj3rETHo1oGbTiuovlMCgRx1Uy3ogMwBycXBsiQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrvxmDRguc0W3V_OtTlvbdPrcfmyLM8BRk0SZFPx0HVl6c_8WLYqai9swzvM_wItcxJhrzSJvuAhl4GNXzFRE57sJNuuZN-df2j2ie18sx7Rb-DewSmeKNOC27zb9tup-UQy3ZOF9v1zaE4C1azzdzj3rETHo1oGbTiuovlMCgRx1Uy3ogMwBycXBsiQ=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">33 - 11/9/13 - NJ One Day - 24 hr : 114 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-YOzdFamIV6Nicn4eiMWXTH7RCDB7xMgIH-WaG5mdcbqpVt8D7B6CBmHUpiO0q9NEouZoNXEbB8cKILT-dSHTCUfqFaGBr4TuKrRFpQfScTlWXV-3_a2PwLdhN24t_MWu-iFqJGSp4sjWNUY2d8Tolb4Ku-gx28vuAovpjzIEGTikI6qaJfL-IbfPCQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="860" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-YOzdFamIV6Nicn4eiMWXTH7RCDB7xMgIH-WaG5mdcbqpVt8D7B6CBmHUpiO0q9NEouZoNXEbB8cKILT-dSHTCUfqFaGBr4TuKrRFpQfScTlWXV-3_a2PwLdhN24t_MWu-iFqJGSp4sjWNUY2d8Tolb4Ku-gx28vuAovpjzIEGTikI6qaJfL-IbfPCQ=w239-h320" width="239" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">34 - 1/18/14 - Beast of Burden Winter - 100 Miler : 19:36:20</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzC5pLvyvQQ6N3h41aTiwVP4uXiDyX695H3hYC1rSDeWhD8FtApUlQP6krBsXyFw4yVgHe2KpQvp6glxTzZwrwvLccaNqx4ljxTi16qvt4MbdlNC9IMeGjdh4XGRLnht2BFYXatGZzphq2vGV1XGVXkzbhAoIObEbhBhjrkwb4uouTZ2YYYiTnAet19Q" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1367" data-original-width="2048" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzC5pLvyvQQ6N3h41aTiwVP4uXiDyX695H3hYC1rSDeWhD8FtApUlQP6krBsXyFw4yVgHe2KpQvp6glxTzZwrwvLccaNqx4ljxTi16qvt4MbdlNC9IMeGjdh4XGRLnht2BFYXatGZzphq2vGV1XGVXkzbhAoIObEbhBhjrkwb4uouTZ2YYYiTnAet19Q=w320-h214" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>35 - 4/26/14 - Hyner View Challenge - 50 Km : 5:59:23</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgaC6gG-i2IOcRvgvwN4MV00FdwSZ7ejD5Icyi6w5a6z0hBlV9HkQXWIgvg8LFImLhbjL06jmd8bjAI9yhQjtT5x2_XhcodsJHPKuTAixRa2og0w3oMglNZ8Q8FthjzDBJTZZbz0a2BjFZdiMgpUi5PjwsQWeUcs5BXtXq_u7LTRzcF6LsJniqXcE7fcA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgaC6gG-i2IOcRvgvwN4MV00FdwSZ7ejD5Icyi6w5a6z0hBlV9HkQXWIgvg8LFImLhbjL06jmd8bjAI9yhQjtT5x2_XhcodsJHPKuTAixRa2og0w3oMglNZ8Q8FthjzDBJTZZbz0a2BjFZdiMgpUi5PjwsQWeUcs5BXtXq_u7LTRzcF6LsJniqXcE7fcA=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">36 - 5/10/14 - Mind the Ducks - 12 hr : 72.68 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhG5-7DPw4vV4k8HsXhZpDz_Mkx49iISLMQcLhVxhyFQtuCZxByY8LocXhdSynakqrT8XceEN_kACREf5wX-k-yhpa5srrRuezEJAMmLnNqUcukD4RA-HT-10lOyHbFZsMucZ-YfwiMCXMpXIUj-t1YRE2YHk_7vCZPxR69d_9BifSqqyI7LTqfx4AOUw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhG5-7DPw4vV4k8HsXhZpDz_Mkx49iISLMQcLhVxhyFQtuCZxByY8LocXhdSynakqrT8XceEN_kACREf5wX-k-yhpa5srrRuezEJAMmLnNqUcukD4RA-HT-10lOyHbFZsMucZ-YfwiMCXMpXIUj-t1YRE2YHk_7vCZPxR69d_9BifSqqyI7LTqfx4AOUw=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">37 - 5/15/14 - 3 Days at the Fair - 72 hr : 246 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEig0aE2ZfcyfXaEzQ1doGiByOVQj7qiItveKdAjlT3V8lDSj2-ISg26loFU1A5C0NAHNMS78uLRBa5MeW3QX_E0ue0obpwIW4FeCWrk3a8aCksNBX7dzgXahIbtfvZoCfYRoyZgyRFJqHBHRkFjnpqmqlUgDCSEp-aCYWmCHHee9MHZxeVHEYVD_m3nog" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="498" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEig0aE2ZfcyfXaEzQ1doGiByOVQj7qiItveKdAjlT3V8lDSj2-ISg26loFU1A5C0NAHNMS78uLRBa5MeW3QX_E0ue0obpwIW4FeCWrk3a8aCksNBX7dzgXahIbtfvZoCfYRoyZgyRFJqHBHRkFjnpqmqlUgDCSEp-aCYWmCHHee9MHZxeVHEYVD_m3nog=w223-h320" width="223" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">38 - 5/31/14 - Dawn 2 Dusk 2 Dawn Ultra - 12 hr : 70.58 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgowMiBwBqojOygKAo0SFzlO8SY2iHy8MyaWLTLIYVs3z8Iw_hdhSkMP8pQDMwChX6pCnyWKr1zw8TOeAt-IbVlsx6PIo1pz1evJElhybNaklZ0hXRcaKlaVb5Qc3BQ-MobU5F1nt9gwlzvAtkeFivmI9B2vvOXrbHPANyAhbh5VNv7-k1FZzMQgdaeZw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgowMiBwBqojOygKAo0SFzlO8SY2iHy8MyaWLTLIYVs3z8Iw_hdhSkMP8pQDMwChX6pCnyWKr1zw8TOeAt-IbVlsx6PIo1pz1evJElhybNaklZ0hXRcaKlaVb5Qc3BQ-MobU5F1nt9gwlzvAtkeFivmI9B2vvOXrbHPANyAhbh5VNv7-k1FZzMQgdaeZw=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">39 - 6/21/14 - Manitou's Revenge - 50+ Miler : 15:09:49</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjhJMMqQUid4L8RM3juvDqKH1lQYwFUe8YVL3Pd6UeTkzlNP2kaCMMhBzR7AbP0t-Bt00v7Jzq4GnO7DSa_aC8ENEK0JQ5LQuDmw8SRU7c_OZDrMt66REQSnbN7FKi2GBwWec3Yx7jo0eu5MVNjLVE0IvfzVeHwinmBFGr3VIReGtkrL00zPzihpen9LQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjhJMMqQUid4L8RM3juvDqKH1lQYwFUe8YVL3Pd6UeTkzlNP2kaCMMhBzR7AbP0t-Bt00v7Jzq4GnO7DSa_aC8ENEK0JQ5LQuDmw8SRU7c_OZDrMt66REQSnbN7FKi2GBwWec3Yx7jo0eu5MVNjLVE0IvfzVeHwinmBFGr3VIReGtkrL00zPzihpen9LQ=w320-h213" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">40 - 7/5/14 - Finger Lakes Fifties - 50 Miler : 9:44:28</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOcwkBhQVfKFe8XJK0zyoCdWmjvTG6sBtptpK_BORB48fhinRHzQQJie4qrw6VuHfRrN1GGPJTQkd6-RCvrwBKdd8nvXSEYNJ78O6xjJa6gU0_BrkfNExjpHmyb5Sa2A4nPE7Og14iOzkk0hdUrYtEffHblHvjgP0toKIN5z0VoL4siUP1b1eZxIOocQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="297" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhOcwkBhQVfKFe8XJK0zyoCdWmjvTG6sBtptpK_BORB48fhinRHzQQJie4qrw6VuHfRrN1GGPJTQkd6-RCvrwBKdd8nvXSEYNJ78O6xjJa6gU0_BrkfNExjpHmyb5Sa2A4nPE7Og14iOzkk0hdUrYtEffHblHvjgP0toKIN5z0VoL4siUP1b1eZxIOocQ=w212-h320" width="212" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">41 - 10/11/14 - Oil Creek 100 - 100 Miler : 26:35:07</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCPdGPH_wVVUZrYMSADkssssBHmMGfyR6sLZuMBjR92u4GI40bM3Lq_E4ZvTLSz3AgYW4LLiQhmpyKN-RPZz9E-TQSX47lvSxmHWYXHoFVlN_O9uk6fa_nicDnIPPmpkGbCWqRWkqhtb4DEjH4_oBl0IXVUUZ27xc8Hz3r0j_VaO-z3jKT1sy76W8JQw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1070" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhCPdGPH_wVVUZrYMSADkssssBHmMGfyR6sLZuMBjR92u4GI40bM3Lq_E4ZvTLSz3AgYW4LLiQhmpyKN-RPZz9E-TQSX47lvSxmHWYXHoFVlN_O9uk6fa_nicDnIPPmpkGbCWqRWkqhtb4DEjH4_oBl0IXVUUZ27xc8Hz3r0j_VaO-z3jKT1sy76W8JQw=w320-h214" width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">42 - 11/1/14 - Mountain Masochist - 50 Miler : 11:39:00</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhb8Z8-Rw6ehfhWgoAmXcX4bQ5QX2HmhTE7BwX2Qk5uCpkSmQ3SWYRjL-fsuz76Ju7NlEoM4av5loyg4EcnzUinUVVf1Z3YL_0oSpmwOnDS3NujoWokmev_eu_Ze1lbekeTcM059Y2lqU6ZYbefmt28w15vZloCFzdhOL9gb65lKQnaluJrUgASBC5-sg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhb8Z8-Rw6ehfhWgoAmXcX4bQ5QX2HmhTE7BwX2Qk5uCpkSmQ3SWYRjL-fsuz76Ju7NlEoM4av5loyg4EcnzUinUVVf1Z3YL_0oSpmwOnDS3NujoWokmev_eu_Ze1lbekeTcM059Y2lqU6ZYbefmt28w15vZloCFzdhOL9gb65lKQnaluJrUgASBC5-sg=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">43 - 11/8/14 - NJ One Day - 24 hr : 108 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj_MclVlwq5F83AqFGV2O4RiIG2TMngfcWgnQ6R5QhOUJXhzH0J94Lqbwml1p40cIaE5p0et9OqNxdLdqMmiQOVTK1z73jfcQ6vNo8dtKIUVkRC6bLh80ivYTN-zqZMJMvQknFTxipUILsaIoiveCVnMOJPa6TVXLNwXrpUjlIQ5-NRy1BXMdiAyvyQLg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="842" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj_MclVlwq5F83AqFGV2O4RiIG2TMngfcWgnQ6R5QhOUJXhzH0J94Lqbwml1p40cIaE5p0et9OqNxdLdqMmiQOVTK1z73jfcQ6vNo8dtKIUVkRC6bLh80ivYTN-zqZMJMvQknFTxipUILsaIoiveCVnMOJPa6TVXLNwXrpUjlIQ5-NRy1BXMdiAyvyQLg=w281-h320" width="281" /></a></div><br />44 - 1/17/15 - The HURT 100 - 100 Miler : 32:32:11</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhalaquy9jgYFn6nKNxSoKY4j8LTRjxfm2dK7vfr6YhxOfTzCA4G8GOEfVEW74hcKf8YIu0e4R-i-iR2mpA0H0fDVd3mBKix5177vPHFGBKldFLEI_PZ867hX92nknyOK0BlzelZwWdJhgNQehvOwaof-Xa6Qcd1TsKvBulpb7nEFRIxV6J1vEYCewBog" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1843" data-original-width="1229" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhalaquy9jgYFn6nKNxSoKY4j8LTRjxfm2dK7vfr6YhxOfTzCA4G8GOEfVEW74hcKf8YIu0e4R-i-iR2mpA0H0fDVd3mBKix5177vPHFGBKldFLEI_PZ867hX92nknyOK0BlzelZwWdJhgNQehvOwaof-Xa6Qcd1TsKvBulpb7nEFRIxV6J1vEYCewBog=w213-h320" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">45 - 4/18/15 - Hyner View Challenge - 50 Km : 6:52:19</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhRCCTvkSmEUTVBm7yLFDnrq7n7F5JTfBAw_RDrRi7oIzPCRuVasmqXYyIZBL9jgXZBgO3pN7KZNMM_UQOxqJhXNTiiI4TO0FanR_fgEahm9ZKpvGRCgXMSSRcN9UiY56bqlwFRLgwEVjwLbi1u56IGPQB8li5fQ8tC9-lwoR-QeodR94EUhPJ1mUur6g" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhRCCTvkSmEUTVBm7yLFDnrq7n7F5JTfBAw_RDrRi7oIzPCRuVasmqXYyIZBL9jgXZBgO3pN7KZNMM_UQOxqJhXNTiiI4TO0FanR_fgEahm9ZKpvGRCgXMSSRcN9UiY56bqlwFRLgwEVjwLbi1u56IGPQB8li5fQ8tC9-lwoR-QeodR94EUhPJ1mUur6g=w213-h320" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">46 - 5/9/15 - Mind the Ducks - 12 hr : 55 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivE0B8UBQyEhD4loHAeJlX1_nBCxLHhwZoZYwcpDgg0TOGqQLCza9rQZksD-Ksw2qiS-6qK91JrCrLdNtJOMzLFdB-NKUlvjTtL6m6lMiZD1ma1N82RYBpVBH9HXAtJdFEhvybQQwETZxTaXd18QzCC327DP67niwLvlUI11Gtl8NVZ5mA2qOgykUPtA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivE0B8UBQyEhD4loHAeJlX1_nBCxLHhwZoZYwcpDgg0TOGqQLCza9rQZksD-Ksw2qiS-6qK91JrCrLdNtJOMzLFdB-NKUlvjTtL6m6lMiZD1ma1N82RYBpVBH9HXAtJdFEhvybQQwETZxTaXd18QzCC327DP67niwLvlUI11Gtl8NVZ5mA2qOgykUPtA=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">47 - 5/13/15 - 3 Days at the Fair - 72 hr : 248 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhL5bBFoY9ocY9rscUB5Eu6D423ZdpqS_AlKyCY_USaafzZM5TXnEtcd-0qW-t7Rf7ngy0kG7CFN-XDdqefusf8Lso7RkDP54sGFS-u9uZyALZ5R7BeF23gvu_2u9VWcDNhTKdZQHBzow-VkLeR7zTGBelxhwtLY-QqYicahtb2faFcVFjlHueB6TWnvQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1546" data-original-width="1428" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhL5bBFoY9ocY9rscUB5Eu6D423ZdpqS_AlKyCY_USaafzZM5TXnEtcd-0qW-t7Rf7ngy0kG7CFN-XDdqefusf8Lso7RkDP54sGFS-u9uZyALZ5R7BeF23gvu_2u9VWcDNhTKdZQHBzow-VkLeR7zTGBelxhwtLY-QqYicahtb2faFcVFjlHueB6TWnvQ=w296-h320" width="296" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>48 -7/9/15 - Last Annual Vol State Road Run - 314 Miler : 115:28:54</b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyVL1q_wtCU2RZkg6gxfEM2T4fbPVi-Gqdl1kp7t7ddYTo8GmTbMbBSD2kAkyP3EEqHr6_kGa2FAliJqVlOUDBf2gv6V2i50Gr-TtvlI-5Dqyou7wCh1Z66oPANSqwMP1CEP_hKQAauJMW_IL43QDsGf0P2pKm2HuhF9qdohZ4oqSvgnH-FWyLtBUqpA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2714" data-original-width="2208" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyVL1q_wtCU2RZkg6gxfEM2T4fbPVi-Gqdl1kp7t7ddYTo8GmTbMbBSD2kAkyP3EEqHr6_kGa2FAliJqVlOUDBf2gv6V2i50Gr-TtvlI-5Dqyou7wCh1Z66oPANSqwMP1CEP_hKQAauJMW_IL43QDsGf0P2pKm2HuhF9qdohZ4oqSvgnH-FWyLtBUqpA=w260-h320" width="260" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">49 - 10/24/15 - TARC Ghost Train Ultra - 60 Miler : 12:46:00</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimHA3LHsRkplTQeQU4VxyJu5u7dq6ykx8_k8tFKmcFSD5bU7wIG_ym-7kQAZME0Qcmoej_Tco50m43M_amW4isv3-s-P4yRh9lwdhKzxf0aCnb3tlSPxFu5O0j92Q1eXtOXvIAZhlom9fO7CYGEtA3sdTD9oUbIJ7BEQb_3GGbcIoYb7QyZuLxGzIe5w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1326" data-original-width="1250" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimHA3LHsRkplTQeQU4VxyJu5u7dq6ykx8_k8tFKmcFSD5bU7wIG_ym-7kQAZME0Qcmoej_Tco50m43M_amW4isv3-s-P4yRh9lwdhKzxf0aCnb3tlSPxFu5O0j92Q1eXtOXvIAZhlom9fO7CYGEtA3sdTD9oUbIJ7BEQb_3GGbcIoYb7QyZuLxGzIe5w=w301-h320" width="301" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">50 - 11/7/15 - Mountain Masochist - 50 Miler : 11:33:24</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDz9DxfgIrllb9zx5JZ233PSHWCtFp0-xHoFRBRwqSIOcBQe3uS0TRW7aiMZu3CQQD7s9K2Vrge8mxtaf6O-Tc0MzXY98dh19vnzykvSerSZdRkC1f5l-0QdKWUSTBoOzqB-N5aQR4VqIvGqRAcrKYIILnBbFcguEfq1ibB_09oZ2ZkE1iNt7K7EzzDw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiDz9DxfgIrllb9zx5JZ233PSHWCtFp0-xHoFRBRwqSIOcBQe3uS0TRW7aiMZu3CQQD7s9K2Vrge8mxtaf6O-Tc0MzXY98dh19vnzykvSerSZdRkC1f5l-0QdKWUSTBoOzqB-N5aQR4VqIvGqRAcrKYIILnBbFcguEfq1ibB_09oZ2ZkE1iNt7K7EzzDw=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">51 - 12/5/15 - TARC Fells Run - 40 Miler : 9:29:10</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbNFTZVtyadf_XXEFy4kLUqe9sWqKKdUboMdb2XLpPgtoMp72AwjHyd8GO4cwVyH4kd4s_nZeCVRUS7W3B6SCuUfrfvf17cXvmFBpgPMX12BtCsQAdtJ-ziVTyY-_VtIi3bUA23oVxTEETPILw0eMP2cGV-RcUTCSpGZ6142mMf76TMqvVWMV7YBk99w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1404" data-original-width="1846" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbNFTZVtyadf_XXEFy4kLUqe9sWqKKdUboMdb2XLpPgtoMp72AwjHyd8GO4cwVyH4kd4s_nZeCVRUS7W3B6SCuUfrfvf17cXvmFBpgPMX12BtCsQAdtJ-ziVTyY-_VtIi3bUA23oVxTEETPILw0eMP2cGV-RcUTCSpGZ6142mMf76TMqvVWMV7YBk99w=w320-h243" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">52 - 2/20/16 - Febapple Frozen Fifty - 50 Miler : 8:49:29</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtI33asom8Oehu0YI49TZA7GIkMZG6pDeS9Zmv4wktmP9ZBuwCbb3LYNdPJgQwekPHcTlvYV_d_z7V06Pv1F_pdN0vHX8UAfytee5geMdtimen3uqbwXK9eMzgNp1jqO0RT3JsI8vJzuXeFHebG32Ta_xUFh8FSIc9soyUTiLOZ7QFHQ52PSThDlgThA" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 238); font-weight: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="534" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtI33asom8Oehu0YI49TZA7GIkMZG6pDeS9Zmv4wktmP9ZBuwCbb3LYNdPJgQwekPHcTlvYV_d_z7V06Pv1F_pdN0vHX8UAfytee5geMdtimen3uqbwXK9eMzgNp1jqO0RT3JsI8vJzuXeFHebG32Ta_xUFh8FSIc9soyUTiLOZ7QFHQ52PSThDlgThA=w213-h320" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">53 - 3/19/16 - Mt. Tammany 10 - 40 Miler : 9:27:16</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYWaEgI_0DkNBfZI3URH2QFlnpVYBIHGORmmLqU4w7zZFITIZEe8LmqJtxkLlqKWmy9dm7t1ZYyRrqqEEzvAo-JgYh_fK-PxlCB3x1c2XwkUZwkk2ab4XGcZISqTn6RsO_01A2SGUliEC_ORKHUQRJY_melP3sqOA6hAz6TZbwP4EyTHckCe423aWQQw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYWaEgI_0DkNBfZI3URH2QFlnpVYBIHGORmmLqU4w7zZFITIZEe8LmqJtxkLlqKWmy9dm7t1ZYyRrqqEEzvAo-JgYh_fK-PxlCB3x1c2XwkUZwkk2ab4XGcZISqTn6RsO_01A2SGUliEC_ORKHUQRJY_melP3sqOA6hAz6TZbwP4EyTHckCe423aWQQw=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">54 - 4/30/16 - O24 - 24 hr : 105 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj6NfNup0dceHLcKwbaAZ9Sib_7EyFUWP-ZDRH41BaIkFREjtOAGFymLoZazHSGUZhxBEom3JQTwmNCV90yv2VjPJfLO43rVQiucNnCwIUH_i7EESixKtv_jCWqOutlzJQFMMuR1RvyuAaiC2Rbz6OXX62f98atvan_KaRBNOeQMAcBrLpTEk-Uo9GhHA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="960" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj6NfNup0dceHLcKwbaAZ9Sib_7EyFUWP-ZDRH41BaIkFREjtOAGFymLoZazHSGUZhxBEom3JQTwmNCV90yv2VjPJfLO43rVQiucNnCwIUH_i7EESixKtv_jCWqOutlzJQFMMuR1RvyuAaiC2Rbz6OXX62f98atvan_KaRBNOeQMAcBrLpTEk-Uo9GhHA=w320-h212" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">55 - 5/14/16 - 3 Days at the Fair - 72 hr : 257 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgrmH-D195c3jcfTF1ux0bLNWiwl0iaYmKBJzUF6md115H_6ZJKmF9wgA6VqoHRzhhm5jXPlEFc3eZxnXp7jVH3lmY3XYpp45A43iNWfeiHZs1iEj4eR2QGbxytIXiOC8Hbr1QpbmIOD9FxBi2Jb9QEZzhmvxtGyiPwQchkZpyLuBpMJm98sGI65twm0w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgrmH-D195c3jcfTF1ux0bLNWiwl0iaYmKBJzUF6md115H_6ZJKmF9wgA6VqoHRzhhm5jXPlEFc3eZxnXp7jVH3lmY3XYpp45A43iNWfeiHZs1iEj4eR2QGbxytIXiOC8Hbr1QpbmIOD9FxBi2Jb9QEZzhmvxtGyiPwQchkZpyLuBpMJm98sGI65twm0w=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">56 - 10/7/16 - The Grindstone 100 - 100 Miler : 31:49:11</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8KbLbwEkhZ3k0rvh0fIeECSJ5Cch5uky-TlraOvZO2ay2ILNortWsVLJIHmh6XY-Bn4Fc58oqwghlGnMdYk59ZG-96ywhCJP-Pv8lIRnzDiTeDQhJCeCYfqLdjqHGZ4q4jUVWc72dm-58L7pyfUBYbgcafp0iNlJPL7NuUW9QHoNccFo2xCE6flJRtw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8KbLbwEkhZ3k0rvh0fIeECSJ5Cch5uky-TlraOvZO2ay2ILNortWsVLJIHmh6XY-Bn4Fc58oqwghlGnMdYk59ZG-96ywhCJP-Pv8lIRnzDiTeDQhJCeCYfqLdjqHGZ4q4jUVWc72dm-58L7pyfUBYbgcafp0iNlJPL7NuUW9QHoNccFo2xCE6flJRtw" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">57 - 10:22:16 - <b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;">TARC Ghost Train Ultra - 30 Miler : 4:59:00</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></b></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimHA3LHsRkplTQeQU4VxyJu5u7dq6ykx8_k8tFKmcFSD5bU7wIG_ym-7kQAZME0Qcmoej_Tco50m43M_amW4isv3-s-P4yRh9lwdhKzxf0aCnb3tlSPxFu5O0j92Q1eXtOXvIAZhlom9fO7CYGEtA3sdTD9oUbIJ7BEQb_3GGbcIoYb7QyZuLxGzIe5w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1326" data-original-width="1250" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEimHA3LHsRkplTQeQU4VxyJu5u7dq6ykx8_k8tFKmcFSD5bU7wIG_ym-7kQAZME0Qcmoej_Tco50m43M_amW4isv3-s-P4yRh9lwdhKzxf0aCnb3tlSPxFu5O0j92Q1eXtOXvIAZhlom9fO7CYGEtA3sdTD9oUbIJ7BEQb_3GGbcIoYb7QyZuLxGzIe5w=w301-h320" width="301" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">58 - 2/18/17 - Febapple Frozen Fifty - 50 Miler : 9:09:15</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9SiWuVa6tV_vhPQ4odz23_7JoA554MZNiVhQLAAHMWLnNuDYPtzumepm5BFTp3UYgx-fs90Enz1qZtuBkKJgRSDWmuBE2KMSkR7zNXrD0E346BzvdJczvxQXPNNfH8nE3RzKP5ECtjSr1eWZFbwv1N9E6HzOns4R1zkGaFmaPJ1CF81g4qKFaJY8c6w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1104" data-original-width="1596" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9SiWuVa6tV_vhPQ4odz23_7JoA554MZNiVhQLAAHMWLnNuDYPtzumepm5BFTp3UYgx-fs90Enz1qZtuBkKJgRSDWmuBE2KMSkR7zNXrD0E346BzvdJczvxQXPNNfH8nE3RzKP5ECtjSr1eWZFbwv1N9E6HzOns4R1zkGaFmaPJ1CF81g4qKFaJY8c6w=w320-h221" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">59 - 3/25/17 - TARC To Hale and Back - 6 hr : 31.5 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgbmETwr8fTkVMihLKh39pdLBfi8RegFWyhJGetiJlXGQnQ7qzLAUcYLqdBU4cKAGRV2BhQ0pCNPioJuWMWgxpz7ymvJYX6luKoYUMmJTXyx9PkfATKFM5TnZQaq-Fc-qRSn3xEPmXwoxZyCtuiwnz2hA55GChN9DtI8vvpv0waENT5IHx7tzXxUOY-w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="583" data-original-width="596" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhgbmETwr8fTkVMihLKh39pdLBfi8RegFWyhJGetiJlXGQnQ7qzLAUcYLqdBU4cKAGRV2BhQ0pCNPioJuWMWgxpz7ymvJYX6luKoYUMmJTXyx9PkfATKFM5TnZQaq-Fc-qRSn3xEPmXwoxZyCtuiwnz2hA55GChN9DtI8vvpv0waENT5IHx7tzXxUOY-w=w320-h313" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">60 - 5/6/17 - Miwok 100 - 100 Km : 11:59:35</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiSGd-O2YjZ6exzxjWNgs0XE9c_Mtkz8d2TNl0AqYY9LUCZAk84tUQTsuQSwwsubZ2EbdfuqW3Z0PHHZbxjSVyQg01Fyd6-rhkQ2eYDLM9bygcBhlnM5U_lBBLwsXcK5fBUakzaHUd2RURBUNkRRoYCxf8p49zxBL_aSqYD1HRWVPcwFKqcsmGlAzTU9w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="817" data-original-width="1225" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiSGd-O2YjZ6exzxjWNgs0XE9c_Mtkz8d2TNl0AqYY9LUCZAk84tUQTsuQSwwsubZ2EbdfuqW3Z0PHHZbxjSVyQg01Fyd6-rhkQ2eYDLM9bygcBhlnM5U_lBBLwsXcK5fBUakzaHUd2RURBUNkRRoYCxf8p49zxBL_aSqYD1HRWVPcwFKqcsmGlAzTU9w=w320-h213" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">61 - 5/13/17 - Mind The Ducks - 12 hr : 70.84 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_iUf3l_AauHTPNWm0B1-8drX_r2VIb4XdnG7opA2VyUKjH1eWcZq2PdgQagp_aAMwOWDIzRly8bPkt9op-YjNX0ljMw562KnmYSkAMDaWOJei788JU8b65smUFBKdFC74y2kDn3XUtcMcLTqq7DVS9TVDW-QJAONhKdXP2pR7JWzjB_ap4pL4vUE29w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_iUf3l_AauHTPNWm0B1-8drX_r2VIb4XdnG7opA2VyUKjH1eWcZq2PdgQagp_aAMwOWDIzRly8bPkt9op-YjNX0ljMw562KnmYSkAMDaWOJei788JU8b65smUFBKdFC74y2kDn3XUtcMcLTqq7DVS9TVDW-QJAONhKdXP2pR7JWzjB_ap4pL4vUE29w=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">62- 6/24/17 - Western States 100 - 100 Miler : 27:51:46</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzcdBJuDNFnmiUQ3RqtQ5QjWnWDMLyo-SyOPUTBBc2vBKv7yS8XS9iaCtCEXUhRH-P429mJnmjcU72oGLv2DWFkwV3PGm6ngqKkZd8abdkyWgTtr_na72Q7MBxgZ_Aa-DpOPd5S-GfdMoEG2IO_IGRY3iRks6I3niysAaauxPaqQMTo2U00ngK34q5KA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="599" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzcdBJuDNFnmiUQ3RqtQ5QjWnWDMLyo-SyOPUTBBc2vBKv7yS8XS9iaCtCEXUhRH-P429mJnmjcU72oGLv2DWFkwV3PGm6ngqKkZd8abdkyWgTtr_na72Q7MBxgZ_Aa-DpOPd5S-GfdMoEG2IO_IGRY3iRks6I3niysAaauxPaqQMTo2U00ngK34q5KA=w213-h320" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">63 - 11/4/17 - Mountain Masochist - 50 Miler : 11:49:54</div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9a_wb6KEBe2k-8frZsQ0Nu1MP4mog-iDveO7qFvjnYw4b2sTssV1ZMaSaiVwLzD0OwD9jd-UsZWkVMjOYKl2-RprzN1a9hXwZ39eNVKVHj1Ue3DVbjsYFyMzLBgeG01H3zNlI5WtHjNBAvEWpV0JPQlN5y5bP9zWLu3eelqNQLmxt7WuQsCMMjd6whQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9a_wb6KEBe2k-8frZsQ0Nu1MP4mog-iDveO7qFvjnYw4b2sTssV1ZMaSaiVwLzD0OwD9jd-UsZWkVMjOYKl2-RprzN1a9hXwZ39eNVKVHj1Ue3DVbjsYFyMzLBgeG01H3zNlI5WtHjNBAvEWpV0JPQlN5y5bP9zWLu3eelqNQLmxt7WuQsCMMjd6whQ=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">64 - 11/18/17 - TARCkey Trot - 6 hr : 27.9 Miles</div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1l9Iq1iv3PVcKvzrTczkzx6B1-kcxaZn2RyYCCQ8I9igBQb_srvkIYhSUYXethHKi2oZg3PPBS2y3hiJhDgdB_ycBeJpi23NQsJXWBv7XRDInRGK19IQLLc0p3NJFhZte9puuuzHmkdvhaoKZkkzFsE0DkjsVr2V8sKfjYEJnTKwIST-yj026Xz8Edg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1348" data-original-width="1600" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1l9Iq1iv3PVcKvzrTczkzx6B1-kcxaZn2RyYCCQ8I9igBQb_srvkIYhSUYXethHKi2oZg3PPBS2y3hiJhDgdB_ycBeJpi23NQsJXWBv7XRDInRGK19IQLLc0p3NJFhZte9puuuzHmkdvhaoKZkkzFsE0DkjsVr2V8sKfjYEJnTKwIST-yj026Xz8Edg=w320-h269" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">65 - 12/2/17 - <b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;">TARC Fells Run - 32 Miler : 6:41:24</div></div></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></b></div></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0DzCYImO3QBIAiXkRTG5v3sk5jn-5Cmqr4gvRFt-OXTbKLlKpmS26lxnim0byX0kbVWrhkTLIRoEaBWAEFfgzDyBtwU6oQATcqWN7wqwmaEImAtqgluZtw5BzVhtdBDOccy_I0ezOHR202yW9xkfTc_8E22HZuCTmUnuiLPYI8mEWZWwEpnymhzyqYg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="876" data-original-width="1594" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0DzCYImO3QBIAiXkRTG5v3sk5jn-5Cmqr4gvRFt-OXTbKLlKpmS26lxnim0byX0kbVWrhkTLIRoEaBWAEFfgzDyBtwU6oQATcqWN7wqwmaEImAtqgluZtw5BzVhtdBDOccy_I0ezOHR202yW9xkfTc_8E22HZuCTmUnuiLPYI8mEWZWwEpnymhzyqYg=w320-h176" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">66 - The Wild Oak Trail (TWOT) 100 - 112 Miler : 38:43:00</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPJIR9OLnztQMuHsJQT5ovlAUGl6PKI875aaK4IjUOTFhA9F9VV427pbPC5Yi1RR1kaFqKQAcMeDD28r1wMVjPIgGjPOHrbnnxOeuKjOPlooWYnJVmN-2l7X2s2SzaDgh8H5xbvBY49ZBma04jyjgXhZAk4lX9FDZpLLnO3jUU_UwPmA_rf0bZKgH8IA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPJIR9OLnztQMuHsJQT5ovlAUGl6PKI875aaK4IjUOTFhA9F9VV427pbPC5Yi1RR1kaFqKQAcMeDD28r1wMVjPIgGjPOHrbnnxOeuKjOPlooWYnJVmN-2l7X2s2SzaDgh8H5xbvBY49ZBma04jyjgXhZAk4lX9FDZpLLnO3jUU_UwPmA_rf0bZKgH8IA=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">67 - 4/29/18 - Lake Waramaug Ultra - 100 Km : 9:54:12</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgx6O5wt5W01bnjZJlYJt8aG0aIAevPFsV2FAO2P4eLdzumNFYdP8gzmikqxgmpxqyb28xNK05jdKMy59Ggrg7vJ8HidQd_Jtl3JPDDqSMYHrzkEYgEO4LHtHj9STnyhS1mtPKYn8f6_kpSubwp1GqAB51ozpdYkJ9WOnwJyoGjzRpAqPc4DgUc7MqJWQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgx6O5wt5W01bnjZJlYJt8aG0aIAevPFsV2FAO2P4eLdzumNFYdP8gzmikqxgmpxqyb28xNK05jdKMy59Ggrg7vJ8HidQd_Jtl3JPDDqSMYHrzkEYgEO4LHtHj9STnyhS1mtPKYn8f6_kpSubwp1GqAB51ozpdYkJ9WOnwJyoGjzRpAqPc4DgUc7MqJWQ=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">68 - 5/17/18 - 3 Days at the Fair - 72 hr : 154 Miles</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6ajI6bgrUWk2fd-SCWDt45kdn_duHLjxF2sx_WxiRmIVJvEARsg9K_Cx4DNIXYQ-2rW5KmMkg1KjKPxRvP6CnYq_Oaf9BxFXL5FwLNLkHOaVZUIYJcy5bOk-PY6jtUGfCBs8f4BwtViJY9x5J2EyWp5HhF4aGO1YvNp1S3prNcI5WarzZ85mNUHIW7w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh6ajI6bgrUWk2fd-SCWDt45kdn_duHLjxF2sx_WxiRmIVJvEARsg9K_Cx4DNIXYQ-2rW5KmMkg1KjKPxRvP6CnYq_Oaf9BxFXL5FwLNLkHOaVZUIYJcy5bOk-PY6jtUGfCBs8f4BwtViJY9x5J2EyWp5HhF4aGO1YvNp1S3prNcI5WarzZ85mNUHIW7w=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><b>69 -7/7/18 - Notchview Ultra - 12 hr : 58.9 Miles</b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhUxK-c1AoZRrTps3mCI5LqItlhWL_Fv6HaOxkFxHpBMU_utobneE1jlVLOB9_gawlqhxREGLFRoDWFoyV8KJknc3k3aX9kDAnSxavYT2KG7jlPqUmp9YgpKwRE9Td3_USCE3Owb3XnnLAMbIYCHl8SlHWlgZZwXyhZdmNrGtngy-te3ZcuWnuI9yHmzQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhUxK-c1AoZRrTps3mCI5LqItlhWL_Fv6HaOxkFxHpBMU_utobneE1jlVLOB9_gawlqhxREGLFRoDWFoyV8KJknc3k3aX9kDAnSxavYT2KG7jlPqUmp9YgpKwRE9Td3_USCE3Owb3XnnLAMbIYCHl8SlHWlgZZwXyhZdmNrGtngy-te3ZcuWnuI9yHmzQ=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">70 - 7/20/18 - The Hardrock Hundred Run - 100 Miler : 39:59:16</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhEDow7GWAqaTdFxcki8FAVXrcVh-llt3emJ-ufVOh_t-4LfdTWtKq4patTdXlGcGuRVlloyD6tCnUWQW4hLMVv_uAUL1Lzznroiin2VnIu-WLdNkbBpaYKVmv8flX-dkRVwLFqMTjUXLXDqm_elbfH_tbouaa-RHZiJjeV29IjmYXTE9Js8K65lzANTA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="526" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhEDow7GWAqaTdFxcki8FAVXrcVh-llt3emJ-ufVOh_t-4LfdTWtKq4patTdXlGcGuRVlloyD6tCnUWQW4hLMVv_uAUL1Lzznroiin2VnIu-WLdNkbBpaYKVmv8flX-dkRVwLFqMTjUXLXDqm_elbfH_tbouaa-RHZiJjeV29IjmYXTE9Js8K65lzANTA=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">71 - 8/30/18 - A Race for the Ages - 42 hr (my age) : 110 Miles</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh9pWG6Rga0CMRcogpT9VkRaqn5jkE_IYENhovP54UcsfuGz5hDr2VHuWvNhxjoQE752CLw6Ogc2ueTtEFZ5mjb6TvWAlEAp0hRkOBCAKxtOpZ8JqW2sWVNdFdd_0x7deonzAdMd2DZCQnSG6ZHhoUWzVjaFNPd2OCUgwn5fqztlcse4TFzeTbcnGefew" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh9pWG6Rga0CMRcogpT9VkRaqn5jkE_IYENhovP54UcsfuGz5hDr2VHuWvNhxjoQE752CLw6Ogc2ueTtEFZ5mjb6TvWAlEAp0hRkOBCAKxtOpZ8JqW2sWVNdFdd_0x7deonzAdMd2DZCQnSG6ZHhoUWzVjaFNPd2OCUgwn5fqztlcse4TFzeTbcnGefew=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">72 - 9/29/18 - The Spartathlon - 246 Km : 35:32:00</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFVz9F_mvmIO_nUi-3wkyEBM9qWnbu8s0Y1lazuGQrlpOJzwp0CJU3OlHPl2AzhLB5LT04qWQo7zakEx_66kTrLSOnVLmF5Jhztred1Oq4oUQgtq11xhtN4Sv300r7VFVkoGZDXN-w8bKmASPO5lSF8HpoeIHxPAlMBZLjv0QWIoy2Tm_IRRnmcHT67Q" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFVz9F_mvmIO_nUi-3wkyEBM9qWnbu8s0Y1lazuGQrlpOJzwp0CJU3OlHPl2AzhLB5LT04qWQo7zakEx_66kTrLSOnVLmF5Jhztred1Oq4oUQgtq11xhtN4Sv300r7VFVkoGZDXN-w8bKmASPO5lSF8HpoeIHxPAlMBZLjv0QWIoy2Tm_IRRnmcHT67Q=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">73 - 10/20/18 - TARC Ghost Train Ultra - 60 Miler : 11:15:26</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgg-72a_FNg9HqWvSgGtVdOFagKp2dgezBUy0EK9l7UPc_PH1x-TMmVoB3bvt4pXb6HgMS7Df6dhE6pYrT8UxHONA7_nbi9UGi9Ar3kG_j70wKqwqHRhSRxlI_kB0PPAk52-Z2Q5RNaWvfwvOURApNrWMOiGcSgBiv3IIp9XZbdkEhx9Pcp-uY6Ng4Fhg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1738" data-original-width="1157" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgg-72a_FNg9HqWvSgGtVdOFagKp2dgezBUy0EK9l7UPc_PH1x-TMmVoB3bvt4pXb6HgMS7Df6dhE6pYrT8UxHONA7_nbi9UGi9Ar3kG_j70wKqwqHRhSRxlI_kB0PPAk52-Z2Q5RNaWvfwvOURApNrWMOiGcSgBiv3IIp9XZbdkEhx9Pcp-uY6Ng4Fhg=w213-h320" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">74 - 11/3/18 - Mountain Masochist - 50 Miler : 11:46:45</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgALRhFEO0AmDb5F-5ybf9aG7ZhUv5hH-vafaCYRLGbLWaAe_wYUPCjofDpAlseO7taAmLPGA0GG0ARHWUigoov3_AvYdTtw2ey3kknGk2qPaZBWQnbOrPQNR70qfVjeuU_iGc3YoE5tj9GsZgLdQ7o3-w1CfSICUsoW-pDpKstHA99VWAdENN0JYf8EA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgALRhFEO0AmDb5F-5ybf9aG7ZhUv5hH-vafaCYRLGbLWaAe_wYUPCjofDpAlseO7taAmLPGA0GG0ARHWUigoov3_AvYdTtw2ey3kknGk2qPaZBWQnbOrPQNR70qfVjeuU_iGc3YoE5tj9GsZgLdQ7o3-w1CfSICUsoW-pDpKstHA99VWAdENN0JYf8EA=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">75 - 11/18/18 - TARCkey Trot - 6 hr : 27.9 Miles</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg7cjRfHu3RpQ_y4GlK-r5xKK6UW-rCXlYPAJGu4ckPiExyzHDjcCVoNjwmsKLw_ZxLdF1ZKcMS6E6iK2Gfkk6lDrbY8yqBXKq9g_v-1Fn0c51Xm4m6wbhFoqm4q6yNAuUby2Q1_9bIQfopVccaIGSdrzIXd7MyAiG9395eBHJWhp3AjCobX2z2xfGBVg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg7cjRfHu3RpQ_y4GlK-r5xKK6UW-rCXlYPAJGu4ckPiExyzHDjcCVoNjwmsKLw_ZxLdF1ZKcMS6E6iK2Gfkk6lDrbY8yqBXKq9g_v-1Fn0c51Xm4m6wbhFoqm4q6yNAuUby2Q1_9bIQfopVccaIGSdrzIXd7MyAiG9395eBHJWhp3AjCobX2z2xfGBVg=w320-h213" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">76 - 12/1/18 - TARC Fells Run - 32 Miler : 7:11:28</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6ii4nK0sVKP8Zzx4PUvvxKCDHJQ1voB-spsalRPwcqsKFC11us4rmDQjPjG8t6ooS6QwbwlUwBluX4hlACcjDHcT92k082BjdTLPOdhtL3SsVfsrEz4m1CDVsPbmQn5Wrw3Enrrnn4rl6pCzcHBxSLfSxUxPd6Ek2KuohUBXs9fDiiS1CcQFRd_9Gmw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1071" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6ii4nK0sVKP8Zzx4PUvvxKCDHJQ1voB-spsalRPwcqsKFC11us4rmDQjPjG8t6ooS6QwbwlUwBluX4hlACcjDHcT92k082BjdTLPOdhtL3SsVfsrEz4m1CDVsPbmQn5Wrw3Enrrnn4rl6pCzcHBxSLfSxUxPd6Ek2KuohUBXs9fDiiS1CcQFRd_9Gmw=w215-h320" width="215" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">77 - 5/11/19 - Mind the Ducks - 12 hr : 44.53 Miles</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgpBvuturg5fPPrjxnnSTbGlzZh21oGWQW65L4EjJ6XIk8FDnOKcIG5kxBMB4Ppga5KURGYUfFAJri8lY6QZWgBVC_hEpf64pPMlCt8JxvHKbZPQln_Q5vXUc8uKaexsKcc346mkgbMu4xRIK4sk4rL1bCT4PV9kIt6gTYkxKmSIhpWlgc_BasiqvyJ2g" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgpBvuturg5fPPrjxnnSTbGlzZh21oGWQW65L4EjJ6XIk8FDnOKcIG5kxBMB4Ppga5KURGYUfFAJri8lY6QZWgBVC_hEpf64pPMlCt8JxvHKbZPQln_Q5vXUc8uKaexsKcc346mkgbMu4xRIK4sk4rL1bCT4PV9kIt6gTYkxKmSIhpWlgc_BasiqvyJ2g=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">78 - 5/18/19 - 3 Days at the Fair - 50 Km (#1) : 5:37:52<span style="color: red;">*</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">This was 1 of 2 separately recorded 50km events</span></div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjuGa8NmzlEbLeanXFygHVwuRA2_2OLX2hbZh4rWUDpflAef36nE9cus8MJ6pDtGaXIKUOGZ-BZmcMrSHy9SRpzg6V7Y9g-RtjlfO2kXijQADyPzDwgPDe5xY__EIXp7s6YrrShUkJP3ptGtKeCP9wTYI2HgA9gxmsK4yrZ9ZZyfF31SxluKHX6tL-YOw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="1280" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjuGa8NmzlEbLeanXFygHVwuRA2_2OLX2hbZh4rWUDpflAef36nE9cus8MJ6pDtGaXIKUOGZ-BZmcMrSHy9SRpzg6V7Y9g-RtjlfO2kXijQADyPzDwgPDe5xY__EIXp7s6YrrShUkJP3ptGtKeCP9wTYI2HgA9gxmsK4yrZ9ZZyfF31SxluKHX6tL-YOw=w320-h214" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>79 - 5/18/19 - 3 Days at the Fair 50 Km (#2) : 7:40:15<span style="color: red;">*</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">This was 2 of 2 separately recorded 50km events</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjuGa8NmzlEbLeanXFygHVwuRA2_2OLX2hbZh4rWUDpflAef36nE9cus8MJ6pDtGaXIKUOGZ-BZmcMrSHy9SRpzg6V7Y9g-RtjlfO2kXijQADyPzDwgPDe5xY__EIXp7s6YrrShUkJP3ptGtKeCP9wTYI2HgA9gxmsK4yrZ9ZZyfF31SxluKHX6tL-YOw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="1280" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjuGa8NmzlEbLeanXFygHVwuRA2_2OLX2hbZh4rWUDpflAef36nE9cus8MJ6pDtGaXIKUOGZ-BZmcMrSHy9SRpzg6V7Y9g-RtjlfO2kXijQADyPzDwgPDe5xY__EIXp7s6YrrShUkJP3ptGtKeCP9wTYI2HgA9gxmsK4yrZ9ZZyfF31SxluKHX6tL-YOw=w320-h214" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>80 - 6/8/19 - North Face Endurance Challenge - 50 Miler : 11:29:48<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJ6ZaopGaU40Dx9vLZV6tAJhfTi5318bm3_wi9ZD9p7lmFOvwWpcneCoFuI318ferLY2FZPt-ZYsKxbFyg4Nb0tbifD57lltbHLaafxNRqi6qCAcFf3D0_3g7r5lwrfOoDucI70wS3AppJBf41pTtna762DZ_w5MnmXWju33dtsjIXXb2PWEJmoJ-nQA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJ6ZaopGaU40Dx9vLZV6tAJhfTi5318bm3_wi9ZD9p7lmFOvwWpcneCoFuI318ferLY2FZPt-ZYsKxbFyg4Nb0tbifD57lltbHLaafxNRqi6qCAcFf3D0_3g7r5lwrfOoDucI70wS3AppJBf41pTtna762DZ_w5MnmXWju33dtsjIXXb2PWEJmoJ-nQA=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">81 - 9/21/19 - The Barkley Fall Classic - 50+ Km : 12:38:46</div></b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiR2TzWEhIkCiaEd_lwmzkbVabh36g0UdFsWeHcWFJ1NbZuPsWxb0m8zu3YyXKptRhU9AamPA1ze3Sd_TgDPLm50aYo2nnsW1gxt_66EM8ZDrDlEzT0lD--L25WAjhvBWVL3VibzQssLSzFKJjLBhTYGpodMPurpnzGH2_fCyAeD6-c67my41mJ81KmuQ" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 238); margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="846" data-original-width="1234" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiR2TzWEhIkCiaEd_lwmzkbVabh36g0UdFsWeHcWFJ1NbZuPsWxb0m8zu3YyXKptRhU9AamPA1ze3Sd_TgDPLm50aYo2nnsW1gxt_66EM8ZDrDlEzT0lD--L25WAjhvBWVL3VibzQssLSzFKJjLBhTYGpodMPurpnzGH2_fCyAeD6-c67my41mJ81KmuQ=w320-h219" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>82 - 10/26/19 - Javelina Jundred - 100 Miler : 26:39:43</b></div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjB5kMwnsV3Ee64zrLnvqfqLFkFspEftSESMlZBu1E-m7FXoiEze8NEBFp5TmJbLrfOtGud39qbbhcCSCfzHnJEh3T15OqmPb_axdELau0M0VmU_RmMHsyfK16RmS1ejdxopIGJ2bVbAGd7Y1Qg64CaBYK8p7diTle6rObbG0kgIs_ijfZMFfbZRVLXIQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="613" data-original-width="920" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjB5kMwnsV3Ee64zrLnvqfqLFkFspEftSESMlZBu1E-m7FXoiEze8NEBFp5TmJbLrfOtGud39qbbhcCSCfzHnJEh3T15OqmPb_axdELau0M0VmU_RmMHsyfK16RmS1ejdxopIGJ2bVbAGd7Y1Qg64CaBYK8p7diTle6rObbG0kgIs_ijfZMFfbZRVLXIQ" width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">83 - 11/2/19 - Mountain Masochist - 50 Miler : 11:45:47</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjFoD770hBWLD7ksxhvReMlc5uc9NOLoxBPrGZDMRzWJJOnZXWfT8Jvg8OJVVD8tpWu0GoxMRnpcS1XpmuwEGFeo2wKWjCCyR8cyhkTwjjzLlHtJZfA6iP69_ijSkh5kPqLWhva4vUkxbyWlYXzwo8PNSjjIqJrUypiid5w4Jnciaj5Wlx69rdWXc9BrA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjFoD770hBWLD7ksxhvReMlc5uc9NOLoxBPrGZDMRzWJJOnZXWfT8Jvg8OJVVD8tpWu0GoxMRnpcS1XpmuwEGFeo2wKWjCCyR8cyhkTwjjzLlHtJZfA6iP69_ijSkh5kPqLWhva4vUkxbyWlYXzwo8PNSjjIqJrUypiid5w4Jnciaj5Wlx69rdWXc9BrA=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">84 - 2/1/20 - Elephant Mountain - 50 Km : 5:38:25</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMdSr7coEWIZoogIq5iGkATIdAuEvBjz9q8T2VqaC_Fg8W5r7wLFNQXXiz3G2tYVKEJ18pNKikeo3JM5N0FjOOJUisJJMuq8yFGd71dSm4by1CGxZR9ceBml-dtFRdsO65gZ2L7WK3p7or_HMTdktFaJy82UbtmlLa64b3V0Da7zTQiUH3-ujYjMUhTQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="689" data-original-width="1049" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhMdSr7coEWIZoogIq5iGkATIdAuEvBjz9q8T2VqaC_Fg8W5r7wLFNQXXiz3G2tYVKEJ18pNKikeo3JM5N0FjOOJUisJJMuq8yFGd71dSm4by1CGxZR9ceBml-dtFRdsO65gZ2L7WK3p7or_HMTdktFaJy82UbtmlLa64b3V0Da7zTQiUH3-ujYjMUhTQ" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">85 - 2/15/20 - Black Canyon Ultra - 100 Km : 12:14:05</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-sDBy54mYC_9Mvi_k4XpeNX5DXLZCeAoVkgYIHg-ERnrK9jS_0u1qIRp8jHvdTjWdGG_n6izuJJh6oSmM4ARREIM1sw1dSakvPDR-lqMrBuTxiCgZD1K7QjJO39yHtG87cBOEnc-yMpBXH6Gka4-LwUzgjIIYqmD1eKkKTwBwwarKjVrjP__yQNF_uw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="374" data-original-width="512" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-sDBy54mYC_9Mvi_k4XpeNX5DXLZCeAoVkgYIHg-ERnrK9jS_0u1qIRp8jHvdTjWdGG_n6izuJJh6oSmM4ARREIM1sw1dSakvPDR-lqMrBuTxiCgZD1K7QjJO39yHtG87cBOEnc-yMpBXH6Gka4-LwUzgjIIYqmD1eKkKTwBwwarKjVrjP__yQNF_uw" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">86 - 6/27/20 - Not Exactly Western States - 50 Km : 5:49:08<span style="color: red;">*</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">*This event was an official event with official results</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>This event no longer exists (it was a Covid-19 event)</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5Z5IK3oCnNed_HzvoSID0BE47Sjowq7MPaKzS93jjcuKonAVOK2lhwpE1I_MLsTCAkJX5AvE5G381-UgsP4CjyeRLaGxnCnPS1lrykVWLY4Kv9OR_2GdQPN87JIL729ANXvr92LHOjrBffI5T35QH_Hdh6bFvJKVH7aASH1V7yzFR79eO1Q3uKmO0Dg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="834" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi5Z5IK3oCnNed_HzvoSID0BE47Sjowq7MPaKzS93jjcuKonAVOK2lhwpE1I_MLsTCAkJX5AvE5G381-UgsP4CjyeRLaGxnCnPS1lrykVWLY4Kv9OR_2GdQPN87JIL729ANXvr92LHOjrBffI5T35QH_Hdh6bFvJKVH7aASH1V7yzFR79eO1Q3uKmO0Dg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b>87 - 6/18/21 - The Bighorn 100 - 100 Miler : 29:44:10</b></div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgNDQ0DGlFoPwlnhr7k-ZV7H0ekNx9dxwcNB54Gt55beKUyVhCOrzrFAkOH84ZP_HDTeN7_4zLw2FvuwHia4UhOrhE23GLSjH3Jp6yOUyVbhcmqsjYJmFRNNKA5SL6q6UES_ceCRVfNsxBhsNnVWzU_EHE-g6ZPgGRGimbN8ofVhshwEnRlDZrbNkjj8g" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1333" data-original-width="2000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgNDQ0DGlFoPwlnhr7k-ZV7H0ekNx9dxwcNB54Gt55beKUyVhCOrzrFAkOH84ZP_HDTeN7_4zLw2FvuwHia4UhOrhE23GLSjH3Jp6yOUyVbhcmqsjYJmFRNNKA5SL6q6UES_ceCRVfNsxBhsNnVWzU_EHE-g6ZPgGRGimbN8ofVhshwEnRlDZrbNkjj8g" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">88 - 9/18/21 - Flagstaff to Grand Canyon Stagecoach Ultra - 55 Km : 7:07:00</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjI442_6muC5ofvit44zGrel6_upsxfBXOE_F1OES4i-OIUiTWTUHV3k3hh0RhobymyKNCdUKuoNwpKzQfyFLwD-MTSIk7OxYKuGJqko60EGjND-HUaaetHJZz-wwlD397CXenRuq3vm2qAQderYtQC0ww3AYIGmwb6F4v1nAJDb26T7dUtT9PLww6Ptw" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="584" data-original-width="994" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjI442_6muC5ofvit44zGrel6_upsxfBXOE_F1OES4i-OIUiTWTUHV3k3hh0RhobymyKNCdUKuoNwpKzQfyFLwD-MTSIk7OxYKuGJqko60EGjND-HUaaetHJZz-wwlD397CXenRuq3vm2qAQderYtQC0ww3AYIGmwb6F4v1nAJDb26T7dUtT9PLww6Ptw" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">89 - 11/6/21 - Mountain Masochist - 50 Miler : 11:53:42</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div style="font-weight: normal;"><i>Quite literally a couch-to-fifty. Not recommended.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOyAkjkFez3VKGDVQxMhTB2XDY6ZUbqLnq-MKynX_mm4Y1XqsnhesFu_1zDHphKcb3HOlFGFS60mXYZowQe2yIaVwx63WUOHfIywR06auZDY500ghFbr1QzXs0qFrXlvhkzYuT2bL-r91jxF98yEQNsrFMQybTLNsuAxExVlCAzSlyk4pP_6ix7Sc94g" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOyAkjkFez3VKGDVQxMhTB2XDY6ZUbqLnq-MKynX_mm4Y1XqsnhesFu_1zDHphKcb3HOlFGFS60mXYZowQe2yIaVwx63WUOHfIywR06auZDY500ghFbr1QzXs0qFrXlvhkzYuT2bL-r91jxF98yEQNsrFMQybTLNsuAxExVlCAzSlyk4pP_6ix7Sc94g=w240-h320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><b>90 - 4/9/22 - Zion Ultra Marathons - 100 Km : 17:44:15</b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh5BxWgqGvx584ypIc032J23W49gKR4437oW5QYtxr8uA5CynGBvFfAT4tZuy9qoRTxWBJDD6jZAYMU2KVZZ4DVghnLLkK4BRPwTek9DkqDa9zobu_mgM9g9n1hzjKzr9yM5U78TnrgyyrucGh8st68P5OoNHGe8yRdEnEbuFKCsqfyO96UlUkuMFKBJQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh5BxWgqGvx584ypIc032J23W49gKR4437oW5QYtxr8uA5CynGBvFfAT4tZuy9qoRTxWBJDD6jZAYMU2KVZZ4DVghnLLkK4BRPwTek9DkqDa9zobu_mgM9g9n1hzjKzr9yM5U78TnrgyyrucGh8st68P5OoNHGe8yRdEnEbuFKCsqfyO96UlUkuMFKBJQ" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">91 - 8/28/22 - Flagstaff Doggie Dash and Ultra Bash - 6 hr : 28 Miles</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhSFkkr2ecIgpb4rBbY302tTCUkdoXkUB4nVrPia8H_8eBjC-4McABwgFQvO4IRQArby2doH1E2ldJODRkJKbThQb1ZmnV5rHmr5MmC2ESLeBKuhKwJgcHL13rn250eHNOcCzabWVdcfr7qnSs-70-YKjOqvIUg7hqWJWQ3lfTZKZ2o9gJcD6bepkbrJA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhSFkkr2ecIgpb4rBbY302tTCUkdoXkUB4nVrPia8H_8eBjC-4McABwgFQvO4IRQArby2doH1E2ldJODRkJKbThQb1ZmnV5rHmr5MmC2ESLeBKuhKwJgcHL13rn250eHNOcCzabWVdcfr7qnSs-70-YKjOqvIUg7hqWJWQ3lfTZKZ2o9gJcD6bepkbrJA" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">92 - 12/2/22 - Fat Ox Ultra - 6 hr : 31 Miles</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhjRbKLN0vMd42F0zji6dX0E7Fz634Niq2kLVPUeEod3KONeV5fYwWWyH_rV_wY_MdHn7MM207eQNLh5uOmpol7Ke6lZBLwEAnPu-xJ5natkcelwz_aR8GKdv-1knJQy49rgayaKKMFFDgOVaXbJHE6xbu5HU8ypVszMJ4Q9csHXCU0piXJH2xX1QU2VA" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhjRbKLN0vMd42F0zji6dX0E7Fz634Niq2kLVPUeEod3KONeV5fYwWWyH_rV_wY_MdHn7MM207eQNLh5uOmpol7Ke6lZBLwEAnPu-xJ5natkcelwz_aR8GKdv-1knJQy49rgayaKKMFFDgOVaXbJHE6xbu5HU8ypVszMJ4Q9csHXCU0piXJH2xX1QU2VA" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;">93 - 2/4/23 - Elephant Mountain - 50 Km : 5:56:56</div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRCthRPB2HVdcd510P7SrccbUq_kaCkxcVKSQmSJOiFoJfuulPqadPRCtLBe1Hlm-gz04Hct3er6jf7vE_1u9BJt1nlB-xOKhtgNK12_WVrGxyIeeTBLOzvRqimz0yT206Y2H8_DAAqunrGwf3zG7pJC6Jg_-r2prfxCu9OgyL89kPkO80OoWVfocPQ/s1002/elephant50kb.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="972" data-original-width="1002" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZRCthRPB2HVdcd510P7SrccbUq_kaCkxcVKSQmSJOiFoJfuulPqadPRCtLBe1Hlm-gz04Hct3er6jf7vE_1u9BJt1nlB-xOKhtgNK12_WVrGxyIeeTBLOzvRqimz0yT206Y2H8_DAAqunrGwf3zG7pJC6Jg_-r2prfxCu9OgyL89kPkO80OoWVfocPQ/w320-h310/elephant50kb.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;">94 - 2/18/23 - Black Canyon Ultra - 100 Km : 16:27:10</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Z8i5DfrKQV7uz-zbogodHmeEZAFncrfolgH7W8t8OjpI74fBX79ZCWz2CFSqKoNHfDXKEy6IwINsK2b5EoG-wTquKauHqvp4xZEuTZlG05ckLrlh8mD0EQ5q0HJM49gwVpP6nkJdYZ30zIHQYKTklsXfzWR2mYRELCEGzlzJ0thTVBFxHLMN3Tgigg/s756/AA2B48E9-3610-46F3-AD22-F1F750DD801F_1_102_o.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="497" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Z8i5DfrKQV7uz-zbogodHmeEZAFncrfolgH7W8t8OjpI74fBX79ZCWz2CFSqKoNHfDXKEy6IwINsK2b5EoG-wTquKauHqvp4xZEuTZlG05ckLrlh8mD0EQ5q0HJM49gwVpP6nkJdYZ30zIHQYKTklsXfzWR2mYRELCEGzlzJ0thTVBFxHLMN3Tgigg/w263-h400/AA2B48E9-3610-46F3-AD22-F1F750DD801F_1_102_o.jpeg" width="263" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;">95 - 4/16/23 - Zion Ultra - 50 Km : 5:42:55</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQnLKVk9IN7mOD19bmhQI7Plv67FMd2SZ97pXgR1hazorHEGFxag8V8w_bu4-XUB8P2a9F-mlSZi4iDPZsjMqeu_xfNY59--Kzyszu0Jtzk1QjXfs-CnLSxtnMiaKVgd5uk-xg3XBXcgquH-ZQfgGL9XWJGrNndqZJeAqq2uMzp_vcbnEljbUsN9R3Q/s900/zion3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQnLKVk9IN7mOD19bmhQI7Plv67FMd2SZ97pXgR1hazorHEGFxag8V8w_bu4-XUB8P2a9F-mlSZi4iDPZsjMqeu_xfNY59--Kzyszu0Jtzk1QjXfs-CnLSxtnMiaKVgd5uk-xg3XBXcgquH-ZQfgGL9XWJGrNndqZJeAqq2uMzp_vcbnEljbUsN9R3Q/s320/zion3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span><span><span style="color: red;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>96 - 5/5/23 - Cocodona Elden Crest 36 (~39 miles) : 7:24:57</b><br /></div></div><span><span><span style="color: red;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KfmNL7Rq_09SwOkEZ1ETYv3qA1jBiwhqoxzUM9mkd6hW7ImKwmT5iwwJ_dKgJT9qEZHjYhyMIab2B6_oid__hIgOtQdAYG0pn19n-08k2lc7oPXmYWLWBAq83FeJoP1Igqea8J7CCBkYuS7LFoLeC2a43TlueNSjLr8mvAgdMKVWkf8Ytqkpu-1ulA/s984/Screen%20Shot%202023-05-20%20at%203.47.17%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="984" data-original-width="676" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6KfmNL7Rq_09SwOkEZ1ETYv3qA1jBiwhqoxzUM9mkd6hW7ImKwmT5iwwJ_dKgJT9qEZHjYhyMIab2B6_oid__hIgOtQdAYG0pn19n-08k2lc7oPXmYWLWBAq83FeJoP1Igqea8J7CCBkYuS7LFoLeC2a43TlueNSjLr8mvAgdMKVWkf8Ytqkpu-1ulA/s320/Screen%20Shot%202023-05-20%20at%203.47.17%20PM.png" width="220" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><b>97 - 5/20/23 - Flagstaff Ultra Bash / Buffaloops Ultra - 6 hr : 36 Miles<br /></b><span><span><span style="color: red;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: red; font-weight: bold;">*recently added!*</span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span><span><span style="color: red;"><div class="separator" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); clear: both; color: black; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgczoTlqwnayDGaON28UIv9JIP2r6UrOGWPV1ksMGyRU00IhxiJs-eoLRIZpVxnna9v8i2pYwd7G77EkKcGKh0YR1sRbHVAI1H-fTp5wb-soGNssNeNNa7ohzsXuEEdlpzXkSbXODTlwItYd5NAAPFJyrYlgwHkvdQN1WhAbMCzNK8gvxe4QY8CdtLlag/s480/Buffaloops_logo_small_4db36be0-f4f5-477b-a3b8-6dab49995dd1_480x480.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="459" data-original-width="480" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgczoTlqwnayDGaON28UIv9JIP2r6UrOGWPV1ksMGyRU00IhxiJs-eoLRIZpVxnna9v8i2pYwd7G77EkKcGKh0YR1sRbHVAI1H-fTp5wb-soGNssNeNNa7ohzsXuEEdlpzXkSbXODTlwItYd5NAAPFJyrYlgwHkvdQN1WhAbMCzNK8gvxe4QY8CdtLlag/s320/Buffaloops_logo_small_4db36be0-f4f5-477b-a3b8-6dab49995dd1_480x480.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></span></span></span><br /><b>98 - 6/10/23 - Flagstaff Big Pine Trail Run 53K : 6:10:33</b><span><span><span style="color: red;"><div class="separator" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); clear: both; color: black; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><span><span><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">*recently added!*</span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); clear: both; color: black; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSYPxeGNl5h29owu-HGpJLga0hEamjO5PKExyKeRJ73YItHFIgovL-3OlC9IM6lh9lznTzsX_hOs0xli03RTLubd-rDqezZFwlrvg-sQoIX5Djs8B14N3tZCyrtoR9X2jyvWhIJUhwK1stfsZM7eKYPzuk_4lDjmyQqE01tQgy5fDnsNLg4xfLQd7KoQ/s1024/352942956_638840481622673_6215257264583883665_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSYPxeGNl5h29owu-HGpJLga0hEamjO5PKExyKeRJ73YItHFIgovL-3OlC9IM6lh9lznTzsX_hOs0xli03RTLubd-rDqezZFwlrvg-sQoIX5Djs8B14N3tZCyrtoR9X2jyvWhIJUhwK1stfsZM7eKYPzuk_4lDjmyQqE01tQgy5fDnsNLg4xfLQd7KoQ/s320/352942956_638840481622673_6215257264583883665_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); clear: both; color: black; font-weight: bold;"><br /></div></span></span></span></div></div></div></div></div></div><span><span><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><u><span style="font-size: large;">PLANNED UPCOMING ULTRAS</span></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;"><u>99 - 6/24/23 - Western States 100 - 100 Miler</u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;"><u><br /></u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span style="color: red; font-size: medium;"><u>100 - 7/14/23 - The Hardrock Hundred Run - 100 Miler</u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><u><br /></u></span></div></span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><u>HONORABLE MENTIONS (BUT NOT COUNTED):</u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><u><br /></u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">1 - 3/29/14 - <b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;">The Barkley Marathons - 60 Miler (Fun Run) : 39:54:59</div></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: normal;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><span style="color: red;">DESPITE THE "FUN RUN" - I STILL EARNED THE DNF "BUGLE"</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhGdVtRHyvMcRwDzUivCRg7xmOE8hhm-03cLTzDkce3xly2SlR-2BPqJiA_HzQv7k_qcS8CsobIAM_fyoOYMd4CQTXr9SgSFsZAB4fBRJvSyIdblbp5TkhVgSEC-2ippjZlxfO713Seb4cEkSJyVEgAswxw69pWcMXiwwvrf9ccibc6E7jSJmAwSZ2DaQ" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhGdVtRHyvMcRwDzUivCRg7xmOE8hhm-03cLTzDkce3xly2SlR-2BPqJiA_HzQv7k_qcS8CsobIAM_fyoOYMd4CQTXr9SgSFsZAB4fBRJvSyIdblbp5TkhVgSEC-2ippjZlxfO713Seb4cEkSJyVEgAswxw69pWcMXiwwvrf9ccibc6E7jSJmAwSZ2DaQ=w213-h320" width="213" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;">2 - 1/10/16 - South Pole 50 : 50 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">I RAN THIS EVENT SOLO AND IT WAS</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">NOT AN OFFICIAL </span>SANCTIONED<span style="font-weight: normal;"> EVENT.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: normal;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgALpJJxoQKtpJ0FAAoV8sd8aJXYJgo6MWa8-3nPnvkZ7W2LCDO9-9yCZkWS-GucplIpEaXQ5E6SFe87Tx6fR1KDthGYNBdb9PJ_sIbSV9bSurWLy9Lj1ppF7kfIa9e5C3Za0YY3XetNpNKs3vQe6hwCdNFQpTAzbkoRdnzfaLwk1HBJNwCSBHtzmEXBA/s1024/1754A60E-2D0C-4C37-87EA-AC0DB226532C_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgALpJJxoQKtpJ0FAAoV8sd8aJXYJgo6MWa8-3nPnvkZ7W2LCDO9-9yCZkWS-GucplIpEaXQ5E6SFe87Tx6fR1KDthGYNBdb9PJ_sIbSV9bSurWLy9Lj1ppF7kfIa9e5C3Za0YY3XetNpNKs3vQe6hwCdNFQpTAzbkoRdnzfaLwk1HBJNwCSBHtzmEXBA/s320/1754A60E-2D0C-4C37-87EA-AC0DB226532C_1_105_c.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;">3 - 3/14/16 - Tassie Trail Fest - Multiday Madness: ~60 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">EVENT INCLUDED 5 SEPARATE </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">RACES TOTALING OVER 60 MILES</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiqSHL1tu6ues4kJAnoVH2tW6Oo0q9WaOM_p7geKvkKTKmi1Q3eSVXVIBUf2efka4eTCRNME5TgIz7iz7H8SbQ9W6AC4af7U9qCcqAOD3ij7q4j9rdLX1U-yHG8d4kCBl6PrvHZ-G0AwHTOfM2Gu3bSTjwAa_hBB8xN13YaTu0qt0-GcVccb8btrj1dpEND" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="936" data-original-width="750" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiqSHL1tu6ues4kJAnoVH2tW6Oo0q9WaOM_p7geKvkKTKmi1Q3eSVXVIBUf2efka4eTCRNME5TgIz7iz7H8SbQ9W6AC4af7U9qCcqAOD3ij7q4j9rdLX1U-yHG8d4kCBl6PrvHZ-G0AwHTOfM2Gu3bSTjwAa_hBB8xN13YaTu0qt0-GcVccb8btrj1dpEND=w320-h400" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div></span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;">4 - 5/10/17 - Quadzilla - 4 Marathons in 4 Days: 104 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">EVEN THOUGH THIS WAS OVER 100 MILES,</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">EACH MARATHON WAS TIMED SEPARATELY,</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">SO NOT ONE SINGLE ULTRA EVENT</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5RLe7_wuNI5ZL6h25bgVG36AWUrK9beid4iGyOar9XIxUivZXyHZ0yu9yfiaFMWP244KRRSWdHTvGqlw6P5OK2vHVKTBMjXiwnSVhKPqJ6d8oWJe95LyGB2OedLQBd_AOrJ-x-i4msDqRKc37cgCkGGmGogjEy_3Fk5z9Ysm1G5TcRBriSFf2_j1pcQ/s3872/64F19FD9-D0E9-4FB0-9577-92A874AE5E5B.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2592" data-original-width="3872" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5RLe7_wuNI5ZL6h25bgVG36AWUrK9beid4iGyOar9XIxUivZXyHZ0yu9yfiaFMWP244KRRSWdHTvGqlw6P5OK2vHVKTBMjXiwnSVhKPqJ6d8oWJe95LyGB2OedLQBd_AOrJ-x-i4msDqRKc37cgCkGGmGogjEy_3Fk5z9Ysm1G5TcRBriSFf2_j1pcQ/s320/64F19FD9-D0E9-4FB0-9577-92A874AE5E5B.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red;"><br /></div></span></div></div></span></div></div></span></div></div></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;">5 - 10/21/17 - Big's Backyard Ultra - Last Man Standing : 54 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">AS A LAST MAN STANDING EVENT,</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">ALL WHO ARE ELIMINATED, TECHNICALLY DNF</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: normal;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEinHCFEOtxyBwhNKwz9nxA-tdbDSPRy4rCVsAOSuRzZhXhEgeMdXaMccY56XLSgRtH-TEGHzA86oO22qJHmC-hwFlhb5WwDEVJhqLFPR9rRZij9NqhvTxYg0e4MQk_eE-fN8muktdH2h-k833-d48XV8ekq7QrW23sG1jR3JiXC06WVysmjalY8PqiK4Q" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEinHCFEOtxyBwhNKwz9nxA-tdbDSPRy4rCVsAOSuRzZhXhEgeMdXaMccY56XLSgRtH-TEGHzA86oO22qJHmC-hwFlhb5WwDEVJhqLFPR9rRZij9NqhvTxYg0e4MQk_eE-fN8muktdH2h-k833-d48XV8ekq7QrW23sG1jR3JiXC06WVysmjalY8PqiK4Q=w320-h213" width="320" /></a></div></span></div></div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><u><br /></u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold;">6 - 6/28/19 - Vermont Long Trail FKT Attempt : 273 Miles</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">WHILE I DID FINISH, I DON'T CONSIDER </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">FKT ATTEMPTS </span></span><span style="caret-color: rgb(255, 0, 0); color: red;">OFFICIAL ULTRAS</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcEzt_V7zqwzpfKswSf8IviVjRHxtKu30xrNuJaJBWCs8MSZ50uDzYR-ODBwOIx5BZjsF5-2HA1cx8uJzLOJdxMpeDOvCnQd7Qr4p6H72uHpbwzq1rKq_gLD-dMqfr1Bd_ZEBXHoy4wl63aYyQ0KKF72zhgIoopC2ES7iwdJGTYp7N8K8i0CKNH8lkgQ/s1024/1F907D7E-0E65-47A6-8745-06ABEE796484_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcEzt_V7zqwzpfKswSf8IviVjRHxtKu30xrNuJaJBWCs8MSZ50uDzYR-ODBwOIx5BZjsF5-2HA1cx8uJzLOJdxMpeDOvCnQd7Qr4p6H72uHpbwzq1rKq_gLD-dMqfr1Bd_ZEBXHoy4wl63aYyQ0KKF72zhgIoopC2ES7iwdJGTYp7N8K8i0CKNH8lkgQ/s320/1F907D7E-0E65-47A6-8745-06ABEE796484_1_105_c.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div></span></div></div></span></div></span></div></span></span></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><p></p>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-40035917510126661972023-01-23T14:35:00.019-05:002023-01-24T10:25:30.322-05:002022 - Another Year Sprinkled with Adventure<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64Eb1JDIR-H-3yusYFyq2aXSVanO8ZS-SOYLQJ7tPQQkg5EB82Gero5gu69LaAkMsVKR4OQxcVrDviN1P_Tz3HRQKqkrCKKYZUNNmu19KJUU0EogYbJIe1PmaSceRVEjoY7m31SS5XhFgBhh-qkWPI0e32SIXqbR1IVAwswiP4stIaZerFRyd0oAbHw/s1024/0EFA384B-78B2-4E8C-9C7D-434F9140DC12_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64Eb1JDIR-H-3yusYFyq2aXSVanO8ZS-SOYLQJ7tPQQkg5EB82Gero5gu69LaAkMsVKR4OQxcVrDviN1P_Tz3HRQKqkrCKKYZUNNmu19KJUU0EogYbJIe1PmaSceRVEjoY7m31SS5XhFgBhh-qkWPI0e32SIXqbR1IVAwswiP4stIaZerFRyd0oAbHw/w400-h300/0EFA384B-78B2-4E8C-9C7D-434F9140DC12_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On Castle Peak in Colorado</div><p></p><p>As I sit here, there are over 20 inches of new fallen snow on the ground outside, and a hot cup of Earl Grey tea to my side. A perfect Sunday evening to sit back and reflect on another year gone by. I feel that these posts have always had a notable "lean" towards the adventure, and as I get older, I see things ever evolving. It's not that the adventuring has waned or disappeared, (it most certainly hasn't!), but more that I have discovered new ways to define what exactly "meaningful" adventures are, and what ones are the most profound to me.</p><p>Upon a quick inventory of my annual memories for 2022, I can certainly recall some more poignant and unique little adventures (like some of my weekend spins around Arizona), as well as more substantial and well-planned trips (like my 2nd multiday moto-camping trip to Colorado). I still had a fair amount of adventures on foot, and even by bicycle as well. Many of my so-called adventures, were more inward I would say, or perhaps seemingly mundane to an outside observer.</p><p>With this all said, I will still go through the list of "Greatest Hits" of 2022 below and reflect on some of my memorable experiences of my 45th year around the sun....</p><p><b>YEAR IN REVIEW:</b></p><p>As the calendar flipped over, and I returned from visiting family over the holidays (the first such trip since the onset of the pandemic), I was greeted with 2 feet of plowed-in snow at the end of my driveway. Winter had arrived in earnest. This was ok, as it put me in the right frame of mind to tackle one of my biggest challenges of the year. This challenge is likely not what you would think....any sort of physical endeavor on foot, but rather an entirely mental effort. For three weeks in January, as classes were still spinning up to full swing, I effectively locked myself into my home office in order to concentrate the entirety of my mental capacity and acquired knowledge, into writing a detailed National Science Foundation Proposal. This proposal, if funded, would allow me to not only carry out really interesting ice-core science (in the service of the broader ice-coring and glaciology community), but would also allow me to pay my graduate student a salary (and removing the burden of having to TA undergraduate classes). This was an immense source of anxiety and stress for me, and being the first full proposal that I was leading on my own, the pressure was intense. For days I doubted myself and had intense bouts of what is known as "Imposter Syndrome" - where despite my 15+ years of training, education, and experience, I still felt that I was not qualified to carry out the research I was proposing and in effect...didn't really know what I was talking about. Of course now, looking back, I know this was a silly mindset to get myself wrapped up into, but it's nearly impossible as an early-career scientist to NOT doubt yourself. Needless to say, the proposal was ultimately funded in July, which definitely brought about an immense sense of validation and a boost to my self-confidence as a scientist and principal investigator.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoOKMgBWDjYb0ymenBDjGHq9gDjWHryX6BaeKrs-YLstb5PiiApj5xTgT-TPJvINm9Or9cUKGWDpWmZPJp4Ki6W39BM34OPYfgGU_P_1XVOatEG3RfcNII6q969yDFv0ofofbam5pknOioUaGR0cacoZDYnr5L7gNyLGYJexJpSikerW-QZK7vtVT28Q/s1024/96E74260-6AB6-4CB0-BD77-3D6F516ADFDC_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoOKMgBWDjYb0ymenBDjGHq9gDjWHryX6BaeKrs-YLstb5PiiApj5xTgT-TPJvINm9Or9cUKGWDpWmZPJp4Ki6W39BM34OPYfgGU_P_1XVOatEG3RfcNII6q969yDFv0ofofbam5pknOioUaGR0cacoZDYnr5L7gNyLGYJexJpSikerW-QZK7vtVT28Q/w400-h300/96E74260-6AB6-4CB0-BD77-3D6F516ADFDC_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">January snow</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As February inched closer, so did a looming race that I impulsively signed up for: The Wild Oak Trail 200. Back in 2018 I had run the Wild Oak 100...and it took me over 36 hours. The course is brutal and unforgiving...yet somehow I believed in my undertrained state, that I could zip over to Virginia for a quick spell, bang out 200 miles in the woods on this monster course, and be back in time for Tea. The hubris was definitely sky high when I registered for the event. Needless to say I managed to only make it through 2 loops (out of 8) before I pulled the plug. I was not in any shape to attempt such a run....but I was glad to get wildly humbled by the experience. It certainly put me back into my proper place. The good news is that I stuck around at the event for a couple of days to help cheer and crew for a fellow 200-mile runner (Eric). Sadly, he dropped heading out into loop 7 and over 150 miles in, due to injury. I didn't take any photos from my run, but did dig up a photo I took of Eric crossing the creek about 8 miles into his 4th loop.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUJ6RkxDeXysT-R9TSuIEVfYn0ObnnZCLo0INsX4OsGJ-aX1F5ngs6xcBxuCB1-nAkjBy9qoFWfj1oRHjzIgwZ4WlPcA6VjjRxCvZBEZ31ZGLkwu8GHB4iYPQ3iyCdolNegS61Eqz-9ADYd802pg8uT38oMcQ1J0n-jQ19dLtBetE_FyeIgZnENBWE_A/s1024/F3EFE149-4A6E-461C-9F9D-FD2D8BC3ECF1_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUJ6RkxDeXysT-R9TSuIEVfYn0ObnnZCLo0INsX4OsGJ-aX1F5ngs6xcBxuCB1-nAkjBy9qoFWfj1oRHjzIgwZ4WlPcA6VjjRxCvZBEZ31ZGLkwu8GHB4iYPQ3iyCdolNegS61Eqz-9ADYd802pg8uT38oMcQ1J0n-jQ19dLtBetE_FyeIgZnENBWE_A/w300-h400/F3EFE149-4A6E-461C-9F9D-FD2D8BC3ECF1_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Eric crossing the creek at around mile 90 in his run.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For the rest of my February and into March, I dove headfirst into my University work. I had a full teaching schedule and a lot of assignments, projects, and field trips to arrange and set up for my classes. But then as Spring Break approached, so did the slightly better weather. For 2022, C and I decided that we would commit to riding the 100 km Lake Tahoe Bike Ride for the LLS charity. C had done the 100-mile version of this ride back in 2017, but I was excited to do the ride together (and the slightly shorter version). With this commitment, came the realization that we needed to start training and getting in some big miles on our road bikes. I was excited by the entire idea of this ride as quite honestly, I needed a break from running, but also wanted to set a tangible goal, and do some fun and focused training. With it being cycling, it also meant that we could train together.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">...and so, we dusted off our bikes, and started a regular and regiment of weekend long rides, punctuated with mid-week shorter rides. The first cobweb dusting test-ride came in the form of a 35-mile loop ride down in the much warmer Sedona area.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaOB0HkStn0mzXe1XjaAPZX5GO2Wkq4ciY6Ks3-Freztirse7ChoMg4ZHvaXtLiq19-hoLNoZfK1U5GCv3VHIaOoZvT-ppy5kl9eGe1Q9GMW_qP1b9xlQwTL6lMti3KQ_hcP2FcDBuSCWZqLyy1MIoAB1G7ikeC0bcLNB0FFOHP_LjyzC3-h70RvSk1g/s1024/5CFA82EF-9AAE-4F35-8E2A-38C7EF80E5AE_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaOB0HkStn0mzXe1XjaAPZX5GO2Wkq4ciY6Ks3-Freztirse7ChoMg4ZHvaXtLiq19-hoLNoZfK1U5GCv3VHIaOoZvT-ppy5kl9eGe1Q9GMW_qP1b9xlQwTL6lMti3KQ_hcP2FcDBuSCWZqLyy1MIoAB1G7ikeC0bcLNB0FFOHP_LjyzC3-h70RvSk1g/w400-h300/5CFA82EF-9AAE-4F35-8E2A-38C7EF80E5AE_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Loaded up for the first training ride</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvwAMehoU7XrBjpn0LTpx6ANnjjN6ja9vSHN8aZLfldHWBEA3moZaaHy9jmSSsAsAXRKXuNarSmiroP6EKtptLDvDh8vgPrj8x51NeZiLxb7aZFHTLhhFS0jkSNWYVnYG9mdx2aB8cdz4ccU3nyy30X1DSPfKG48eWoIFozrtiMoP0KKZiipab-8qjGg/s3088/EB818D35-2671-4D81-BC98-0C75F1E1C21A.heic" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvwAMehoU7XrBjpn0LTpx6ANnjjN6ja9vSHN8aZLfldHWBEA3moZaaHy9jmSSsAsAXRKXuNarSmiroP6EKtptLDvDh8vgPrj8x51NeZiLxb7aZFHTLhhFS0jkSNWYVnYG9mdx2aB8cdz4ccU3nyy30X1DSPfKG48eWoIFozrtiMoP0KKZiipab-8qjGg/w400-h300/EB818D35-2671-4D81-BC98-0C75F1E1C21A.heic" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">25 miles into our first ride outside Sedona</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PMW9KgboM4j3kL2qrHr8yCYZGdFhGz4woGWWPixV0shHjR5P1OnYShJ8pv1cedbEAOEfm-jszH9jenZfFcq-7-6T7MC58g0JSfff6m-nrLQNcaDuqvW9FDkCFJACthzsJuQczuVHMkkdwPIBdDKbCd5IU6kPhC0dMubQBgax5uXD9IuoGeyA8iXb-g/s1024/0CF9DAAC-6431-4DA8-A2CC-3AB1A9685071_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7PMW9KgboM4j3kL2qrHr8yCYZGdFhGz4woGWWPixV0shHjR5P1OnYShJ8pv1cedbEAOEfm-jszH9jenZfFcq-7-6T7MC58g0JSfff6m-nrLQNcaDuqvW9FDkCFJACthzsJuQczuVHMkkdwPIBdDKbCd5IU6kPhC0dMubQBgax5uXD9IuoGeyA8iXb-g/w300-h400/0CF9DAAC-6431-4DA8-A2CC-3AB1A9685071_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Somewhere along the ride</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>A few weeks later we rode our first "race" of the season, a 45-mile loop ride called the Tour de Mesa. It was a hot day out on the course, made only worse by the fact that we started over an hour late due to a race management mix-up. But we finished and felt like our training was paying off</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='411' height='342' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwdMm4cpfIhQTMGwqEuauMX1tIuE7dDEkG0E7Xa9Ut_YTpnTvBw3rQFWedg9yVAeHL3Bss98e_v8C1lALFA5g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At the Tour de Mesa</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As the weeks pressed on, we continued more of our training rides, which culminated in a 66-mile final ride along the entirety of the South Rim Road of the Grand Canyon, including a trip out to Hermit's Rest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As this was all happening, I did also start to pick up my running again as I had a planned 100k trail run in April as well: The Zion 100k. I signed up for this run so that I could explore a bit around Zion National Park, but also because it was relatively close, and would give me a Western States Qualifier. As a way to prep for the run, I decided to run Flagstaff's Loop Trail again. This time however, I only ran about 32 miles of it before hanging it up. My goal for the Zion Race had become one of just finishing, so I wasn't worried about having an intense training schedule.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='396' height='329' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw5_hN7A6hjx7CWvc9E2Q_KbMoZLrDnrXj2Pu00atMv9PA9KCOCu8L4pHNQ52JpAMhBgsBnwW8H710I9NmBKQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Starting Loop Trail</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhWwq8ZdN9ni_WwqWTQdS6UEHG4AsWz8TbP2okbPW2vnJeY7b9qlkw-H4xgZRfD06M2GCnkGP2CenshCBcQqwnsOcQMYLNRi4Zn8WEzr-pdW9qTbZPCNv4qtQusaruPTTnDXXVjwXYzHiNffyq_nufKBYxIiSkA-mY8IXDegTSdfY3eqhjcijzi7btWg/s1024/20FEC6F3-8D0B-419F-BE30-9BEEAF83A996_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhWwq8ZdN9ni_WwqWTQdS6UEHG4AsWz8TbP2okbPW2vnJeY7b9qlkw-H4xgZRfD06M2GCnkGP2CenshCBcQqwnsOcQMYLNRi4Zn8WEzr-pdW9qTbZPCNv4qtQusaruPTTnDXXVjwXYzHiNffyq_nufKBYxIiSkA-mY8IXDegTSdfY3eqhjcijzi7btWg/w400-h300/20FEC6F3-8D0B-419F-BE30-9BEEAF83A996_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Along the Loop Trail in view of Mt. Elden</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP3UbLhqbrpHLTQ49CfzEo3AN1svgDHNRW-qmLHDL4btXYV2C5L-3csWrwqQq2d7fQ4vrERvcuEvlEwrR8fjVkxJlD-R_ZxHupJR-zRndn8OEH1U1R1Cv05ZX5zcAUrfL3bvyRBzyfLLxB-f9S0koWZr6cnNKUWOp_MSXB7xILkwugRRFMaqxf35RCpg/s1024/68E8DBB5-854F-4D64-8FB6-017B52A05C9F_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP3UbLhqbrpHLTQ49CfzEo3AN1svgDHNRW-qmLHDL4btXYV2C5L-3csWrwqQq2d7fQ4vrERvcuEvlEwrR8fjVkxJlD-R_ZxHupJR-zRndn8OEH1U1R1Cv05ZX5zcAUrfL3bvyRBzyfLLxB-f9S0koWZr6cnNKUWOp_MSXB7xILkwugRRFMaqxf35RCpg/w400-h300/68E8DBB5-854F-4D64-8FB6-017B52A05C9F_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Along the Loop Trail</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08u90dL8EhQnymDhIsylZ3ih_LSAgYm3cmZEb5IANCVJPff2HqnPaAMSeI3691fiidXHq-zRZDvf7QNY0Y486T76cP1gubyEWgKpOXipV5rrDxyD-M7BEUNEaHYmrcrArz_kFA_Mdex55MvnyB0VQgunEhggbNqHAW38P4H06crdOjPHAblEpXOPB3Q/s1024/D69B61AA-44D7-41DA-9BC2-026BE50F1578_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08u90dL8EhQnymDhIsylZ3ih_LSAgYm3cmZEb5IANCVJPff2HqnPaAMSeI3691fiidXHq-zRZDvf7QNY0Y486T76cP1gubyEWgKpOXipV5rrDxyD-M7BEUNEaHYmrcrArz_kFA_Mdex55MvnyB0VQgunEhggbNqHAW38P4H06crdOjPHAblEpXOPB3Q/w400-h300/D69B61AA-44D7-41DA-9BC2-026BE50F1578_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The view from early in the Zion 100k</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3KaPspMb-0vPEm5Z23WidKBMMTArLaZvHamzRkCSjVWY6SVuFT2fUANc_2ArkFpSSyBUid5udo4DomBnyAlNPMpgoLy65V8m_TGZd1ulPcFzotwe9oQH7AAdYtJ7LkHx9NLTeEs2QHgysEMMMxSQ3ZErLx0J52TljiDTDUn0gED609hVoYD6qyCZMGQ/s1182/3B0C8593-235A-479B-98AA-A55C8E5BC39B_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="1182" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3KaPspMb-0vPEm5Z23WidKBMMTArLaZvHamzRkCSjVWY6SVuFT2fUANc_2ArkFpSSyBUid5udo4DomBnyAlNPMpgoLy65V8m_TGZd1ulPcFzotwe9oQH7AAdYtJ7LkHx9NLTeEs2QHgysEMMMxSQ3ZErLx0J52TljiDTDUn0gED609hVoYD6qyCZMGQ/w400-h225/3B0C8593-235A-479B-98AA-A55C8E5BC39B_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Mile 31 of the Zion 100k</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was somewhere around this time that it also occurred to me that it was the 10-year anniversary of my Barkley Running. I received a Finishers book in the mail that featured quotes and responses from each of the Barkley Finishers, and reading my snippets, brought back a wave of memories. For those curious, I am planning on heading back this year (2023), but only to crew a friend. It's been 4 years now since I've been to Frozen Head and wandered around the mountains of the park...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGwHgNd1bvRDJlutFTI7yXxMzsLDJaZ8-LW5wPP2x9NwJe9hW7LRHIntEdBZ53IKSYbRcjNwYiJ1pFHlZwLVOFtdWFKXIZmlbS5l8DXZ8l78srbRnjVirnvux50-l_T2anC25sB6tzQinS5OX8fksuVGrUZvzc17pbK972Ns9DULfNTenHO435EsNgA/s1024/B6AE08FD-CEF5-471D-BD45-79A7C7DE990B_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNGwHgNd1bvRDJlutFTI7yXxMzsLDJaZ8-LW5wPP2x9NwJe9hW7LRHIntEdBZ53IKSYbRcjNwYiJ1pFHlZwLVOFtdWFKXIZmlbS5l8DXZ8l78srbRnjVirnvux50-l_T2anC25sB6tzQinS5OX8fksuVGrUZvzc17pbK972Ns9DULfNTenHO435EsNgA/w300-h400/B6AE08FD-CEF5-471D-BD45-79A7C7DE990B_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Barkley Book</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWHtUVkJIJzEz4MOgzMgxn-M_LdBvy4o4raNYg3xhiXYoLU7x7dcrgh5M_ZqCp-a9dwKZEmBydQhuS5-UEH2jMtY_Gt-Wchgwje27LcTrf0XlXRBoUed6v3_G1RqORJSxzdOHD3vKJMhQtDRvTi1M3lO1Ockb_Sah3ye10MClbHXdR05mfzSr5eQb9XA/s640/A5A5A24A-15E9-4EDF-B421-65B9615D8BA7_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWHtUVkJIJzEz4MOgzMgxn-M_LdBvy4o4raNYg3xhiXYoLU7x7dcrgh5M_ZqCp-a9dwKZEmBydQhuS5-UEH2jMtY_Gt-Wchgwje27LcTrf0XlXRBoUed6v3_G1RqORJSxzdOHD3vKJMhQtDRvTi1M3lO1Ockb_Sah3ye10MClbHXdR05mfzSr5eQb9XA/w400-h300/A5A5A24A-15E9-4EDF-B421-65B9615D8BA7_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My finish in 2012</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In April, I set out on a rather new type of adventure. At some point in the previous few months, I had been contacted by a fellow adventure motorcyclist down in Phoenix (that rides the same bike as me). We chatted for a bit, and decided to team up for a GPS Waypoint Scramble Rally ride in April. The purpose of this ride would be to tag as many pre-marked waypoints as possible in a 48-hour period. This mean a lot of long rides, off-road, on trails, and through difficult terrain. Needless to say, the adventure was phenomenal and chock full of ridiculousness - including 8 inch deep sand washes, foot high boulder navigation, and steep climbs into the mountains. We camped on this adventure too, which meant I got to turn this adventure into a true moto-camping escapade. We did a massive ride all around Southern Arizona and along the Mexican border that featured some of the most amazing landscapes I've ever seen. The best part was, as a result of this trip, I became a better rider and much more comfortable in difficult terrains (like sand and rocks). I made it the entire weekend without dropping my bike once. On this ride I carried a helmet camera and recorded a lot of great footage as well, which I've condensed below....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="328" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8GmhY36Wv2g" width="398" youtube-src-id="8GmhY36Wv2g"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Highlights from the Rally</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSEqTsNqY2VZwAsD4WIty7-SQ7sZfeak6qyqlT-75vFsfJ-VUsRSCCW0j9_vGls9DdGIz9VQg0Ms2ZyHRpKvaEtbSmN4HImJtdW8pOigKWUmoQrPF5A32zucT1M7K0tOm51h2_A-dM73RszElWLd_Ci4A4a3hwA_XAngNLduY16dbGwme5saEDusSOHg/s1024/1B5DF4C7-BA6E-438F-AADF-A7F6CA6C8E15_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSEqTsNqY2VZwAsD4WIty7-SQ7sZfeak6qyqlT-75vFsfJ-VUsRSCCW0j9_vGls9DdGIz9VQg0Ms2ZyHRpKvaEtbSmN4HImJtdW8pOigKWUmoQrPF5A32zucT1M7K0tOm51h2_A-dM73RszElWLd_Ci4A4a3hwA_XAngNLduY16dbGwme5saEDusSOHg/w400-h300/1B5DF4C7-BA6E-438F-AADF-A7F6CA6C8E15_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Near the Mexican Border</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsAYJP2Bfbs4_XMgqfGTk6wK2vQ0JO2nMpogzU2LROpBZt_0HeLBJ2y_y0M9_Jd93e7WFmSs2UWK7nSY1YdZqgVzBpsuTTJ38nkDvpzd4sFblvAE_IWU77ax23ezudyhjJFjq3e_qGOS3bn9yY2e8kO0NVrAOp09Hxi-4u3vdg6fPslKRYYS1e3LsZg/s1024/7DFA8564-14AD-42D5-998E-0B6D25C85401_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqsAYJP2Bfbs4_XMgqfGTk6wK2vQ0JO2nMpogzU2LROpBZt_0HeLBJ2y_y0M9_Jd93e7WFmSs2UWK7nSY1YdZqgVzBpsuTTJ38nkDvpzd4sFblvAE_IWU77ax23ezudyhjJFjq3e_qGOS3bn9yY2e8kO0NVrAOp09Hxi-4u3vdg6fPslKRYYS1e3LsZg/w400-h300/7DFA8564-14AD-42D5-998E-0B6D25C85401_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A small "lake" in Southern Arizona</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGLpY017uekoM5beppQ1N5cEgzXsM3q5X7g72l2UlImxJVve8-v1o5aKQRIb8MvuT0THxYnmORyd_iM1jC8rGhHTWCjmkaVopOYsYZrb6si7LP4E3E-NLc8mFZ3R5JhXeF1iBeHiOGKR7pu6xZJY04_STqu_BA_vRJbEevw5Bh0mwxo5WlAUIjQrKIJw/s1024/8EF7A5EF-E3F4-47CE-B634-6D03147DC05F_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGLpY017uekoM5beppQ1N5cEgzXsM3q5X7g72l2UlImxJVve8-v1o5aKQRIb8MvuT0THxYnmORyd_iM1jC8rGhHTWCjmkaVopOYsYZrb6si7LP4E3E-NLc8mFZ3R5JhXeF1iBeHiOGKR7pu6xZJY04_STqu_BA_vRJbEevw5Bh0mwxo5WlAUIjQrKIJw/w400-h300/8EF7A5EF-E3F4-47CE-B634-6D03147DC05F_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Council Rocks near Tombstone</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5cH4oxVKS_rCLcGwmF8MyGvFn0jjqb51kJQQEuK4f9texTT0aa4xo1zOOXogaBYGsDRc6lIZfx58aDSCrHn_gWIHmiv3g9vy29eWua5mU7RlSpWLKuemDXIQBm28xoIZ63VCpjuCvyLuY2iIihxAkrLY-ueVbDaEPCT9uBrDJpyI8X3wu6Mvj1nU6yQ/s1024/628261E0-5A7D-4655-A719-1C1438B804D3_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5cH4oxVKS_rCLcGwmF8MyGvFn0jjqb51kJQQEuK4f9texTT0aa4xo1zOOXogaBYGsDRc6lIZfx58aDSCrHn_gWIHmiv3g9vy29eWua5mU7RlSpWLKuemDXIQBm28xoIZ63VCpjuCvyLuY2iIihxAkrLY-ueVbDaEPCT9uBrDJpyI8X3wu6Mvj1nU6yQ/w400-h300/628261E0-5A7D-4655-A719-1C1438B804D3_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">High-elevation Meadow Near Mexico</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9cLJOtxaw0Av7RVFZqAEz3wjkO8jhXEh2qcFDEuf_eD9hTEx-hqaxXB6GA6Xfw-eV1kyh2D5Lvy8NGcn5NM7M6sIVf0R3XcOXuUT5ZP4U99tAT-W6km06xUk7r0mSBOgjaTJCdbUuWuIk4khXZi16rwRaGpahd6yfqtXXRLDgyzCPIGMajoVz_uALSw/s1024/CB7D699A-7394-417F-AFC4-C32C90F20360_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9cLJOtxaw0Av7RVFZqAEz3wjkO8jhXEh2qcFDEuf_eD9hTEx-hqaxXB6GA6Xfw-eV1kyh2D5Lvy8NGcn5NM7M6sIVf0R3XcOXuUT5ZP4U99tAT-W6km06xUk7r0mSBOgjaTJCdbUuWuIk4khXZi16rwRaGpahd6yfqtXXRLDgyzCPIGMajoVz_uALSw/w400-h300/CB7D699A-7394-417F-AFC4-C32C90F20360_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Some off-road riding in the mountains</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbghGWOtQ_PsXa1q_EM8RcbWmLuGskHzHk5KNeRre67rOrA6Fc2_GdmKy6Lnmq0dpsUJy1FGjOUl2wNFjVZH7wkEbiKVLrLuOLOv-9lvxwrPn62TLTCmGglecvW3bukZYKrCQmDI0OmcpLaYruh5VvbTUyELhJ8jhJ_Q05zrk4GsoHSd0CI4bLywNHHg/s1024/E2DEE304-FEBC-4A64-B679-5CAF437BD582_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbghGWOtQ_PsXa1q_EM8RcbWmLuGskHzHk5KNeRre67rOrA6Fc2_GdmKy6Lnmq0dpsUJy1FGjOUl2wNFjVZH7wkEbiKVLrLuOLOv-9lvxwrPn62TLTCmGglecvW3bukZYKrCQmDI0OmcpLaYruh5VvbTUyELhJ8jhJ_Q05zrk4GsoHSd0CI4bLywNHHg/w400-h300/E2DEE304-FEBC-4A64-B679-5CAF437BD582_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our bikes geared up for the trip</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhP4I0lhleY5f8kO8pQE7F2PSfvqTvHa7Qa0M8DaMfQNNoJLh9z5a18upmHmofG6yHahPc2Y2EFjrmB7t8mlZKL0el0aFbA6XXe8Tpf3V8Ywf--sxDxzf_3HvQyMLudqk_jyzg-NOCsOn5ZTzKnfv77ZS0mx5v2PFJuj9fF-aZuXtQ8yIkakSKKT6eQw/s1024/EF5B4C95-78D0-431B-BFE7-178870085545_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhP4I0lhleY5f8kO8pQE7F2PSfvqTvHa7Qa0M8DaMfQNNoJLh9z5a18upmHmofG6yHahPc2Y2EFjrmB7t8mlZKL0el0aFbA6XXe8Tpf3V8Ywf--sxDxzf_3HvQyMLudqk_jyzg-NOCsOn5ZTzKnfv77ZS0mx5v2PFJuj9fF-aZuXtQ8yIkakSKKT6eQw/w400-h300/EF5B4C95-78D0-431B-BFE7-178870085545_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Trailered and ready to roll...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Immediately after the ride, I left Flagstaff and headed to Denver to carry out some lab work with my Grad Student. Our goal was to cut and prepare several dozen new samples from some existing cores. These samples would then be analyzed in an effort to learn more about brittle-ice behavior. It was as successful two weeks at the lab, and we came away with some great samples and data.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='389' height='323' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwNbsp9vDsGoxoFi9_jJJq74a3qndl9lEfSPSRf1oevtIlXWPFMAtQc5HYe2I8Kx5eVuN8nXgDtm_HMNYB7zg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ice Core Lab!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipIV9sTyrXfewlsHspOxU0bisBrA1gRyHGGdcbasCQv2bb_eR2lFUDtSyN_mfiRYLERYTO3mLBdItCZXOhx8_PyB8_IZ_9Dc0hN4mVdRSab_3yT82cUyBAMF6QxfKCkUuEfRFimCVrOG7hb_4WJQxQbC7Qm4AdBHlejViTQXngNP1gc4xUcOSo7wi5sA/s1022/0F23E2CA-1012-490E-BC5C-9DD4AAE434D6_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1022" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipIV9sTyrXfewlsHspOxU0bisBrA1gRyHGGdcbasCQv2bb_eR2lFUDtSyN_mfiRYLERYTO3mLBdItCZXOhx8_PyB8_IZ_9Dc0hN4mVdRSab_3yT82cUyBAMF6QxfKCkUuEfRFimCVrOG7hb_4WJQxQbC7Qm4AdBHlejViTQXngNP1gc4xUcOSo7wi5sA/w300-h400/0F23E2CA-1012-490E-BC5C-9DD4AAE434D6_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ready for the Freezer</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGhzqJtPvZfPm2oTipVFZ_KP8HZITU3YKgpkasRU6eNMxbaklWoDTSVXAR0xNQKlACPPeqm6ajbVFjLi-2UloUTJL1FIlEUogeL86PqKsRZbNYzySZ8QooGFdthd0S5nw1mvL_npMZs1x00vX52Kw0ij-UABOOtHPcgX6Vd7FRVvALgK2DDPRLcwycwA/s1024/8CAB6F1C-9047-4223-A1DE-F1F11197A4BE_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGhzqJtPvZfPm2oTipVFZ_KP8HZITU3YKgpkasRU6eNMxbaklWoDTSVXAR0xNQKlACPPeqm6ajbVFjLi-2UloUTJL1FIlEUogeL86PqKsRZbNYzySZ8QooGFdthd0S5nw1mvL_npMZs1x00vX52Kw0ij-UABOOtHPcgX6Vd7FRVvALgK2DDPRLcwycwA/w400-h300/8CAB6F1C-9047-4223-A1DE-F1F11197A4BE_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ice-core bubbles....my favorite!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuG2UZ8xG__5HOsS3C7dhNN6g4JhpU4X0L9DJSBzQuG497mYs_RdZsOstOd3qATDHBcmWMeCBxuXFEEjRF2VDaMErcByWgvO4KJdie_G7U-Gd_4jGKGceGlIXmnxCRqeGCUZkvDz2243xfCit25fDDGbqd7x0aRANEefm3dScgGibA95LfzH__guamEw/s1024/67C4C214-4B5B-46AA-8988-848C70090C3A_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuG2UZ8xG__5HOsS3C7dhNN6g4JhpU4X0L9DJSBzQuG497mYs_RdZsOstOd3qATDHBcmWMeCBxuXFEEjRF2VDaMErcByWgvO4KJdie_G7U-Gd_4jGKGceGlIXmnxCRqeGCUZkvDz2243xfCit25fDDGbqd7x0aRANEefm3dScgGibA95LfzH__guamEw/w400-h300/67C4C214-4B5B-46AA-8988-848C70090C3A_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Samantha prepping new thin-sections of ice</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7BQE_noy1yrqJQHhSsk9acpBhpukEL20Y86IRIzjMlkZOkv3LzKQ2DBYOT6uQmYTZ5emL61adP0mnv7mqslalVDwXIhm8mEvKH_rEMQRozULnrRQSIVpQkgrJPnMbrR9slzrE7vB2s3_RAn2xOudAHCvFIdktSW-DvnwVE-fsz4pNIiLKdbXGIfjSRw/s1024/B7A158D3-782D-41F8-BF3D-B976448EC53F_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7BQE_noy1yrqJQHhSsk9acpBhpukEL20Y86IRIzjMlkZOkv3LzKQ2DBYOT6uQmYTZ5emL61adP0mnv7mqslalVDwXIhm8mEvKH_rEMQRozULnrRQSIVpQkgrJPnMbrR9slzrE7vB2s3_RAn2xOudAHCvFIdktSW-DvnwVE-fsz4pNIiLKdbXGIfjSRw/w300-h400/B7A158D3-782D-41F8-BF3D-B976448EC53F_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">New thin section!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0zhiJUF8sZ1shotsa6VfPjwhRPFlauxMDngFY3iuWkOo4PcNtuXytbaPdUcbfl6DV9tY-ruudhuPdNS2D7nLTeiZBKjo2UJNqdGyCZ5JdLfssrsiaYNYZsnxmA1RdBu46Cqi7rteWpGiS1XLPV3V-SRsqw6bm1kVVbOr3yx-oqBfa2qurZba1XuktJw/s1024/E0894684-A4E3-458B-B13B-42B58CF112B5_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0zhiJUF8sZ1shotsa6VfPjwhRPFlauxMDngFY3iuWkOo4PcNtuXytbaPdUcbfl6DV9tY-ruudhuPdNS2D7nLTeiZBKjo2UJNqdGyCZ5JdLfssrsiaYNYZsnxmA1RdBu46Cqi7rteWpGiS1XLPV3V-SRsqw6bm1kVVbOr3yx-oqBfa2qurZba1XuktJw/w300-h400/E0894684-A4E3-458B-B13B-42B58CF112B5_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Siple Dome "rubble" ice</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And then, in May....I got a new toy. Two things happened actually. I sold my trusty old scooter to a college kid down the street, and bought myself a new scooter in the form of a Honda Trail 125. I had been wanting to upgrade my "scooter" for quite some time, but also wanted something a little more capable off-road. The Honda Trail 125 is really hard to find, and there are wait lists dozens of people long in most places. But, I happened to call a dealership in Phoenix right as they had 3 coming in, and I got on the list for the third and final unit. I excitedly picked it up and over the next 6 months I would put over 1000 miles on it, and go on some of the craziest little mini adventures. It's been an absolute treat to ride, and still serves as a perfect commuter vehicle (provided there's not 3 feet of snow on the ground....)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii2kAuxSncTqQp-Qwm6Njui9kY7NbrFcvjWLU7IAMpLmz5Ft1ekGZDiPxn63fITjmE7WFzJxh82IMOvVJ_6YuykaV-PT7fx9z1756OmZ8IEBpXHMk3Iv69cbq5KDxtD0b54t6w-pltnyC4W2Dk_dckFr-epv2alFYkzeh2Vp0ugyvO_SEfrpMXlRvVLg/s1024/8D058527-70FF-47BE-9F6E-E9823213AAAC_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii2kAuxSncTqQp-Qwm6Njui9kY7NbrFcvjWLU7IAMpLmz5Ft1ekGZDiPxn63fITjmE7WFzJxh82IMOvVJ_6YuykaV-PT7fx9z1756OmZ8IEBpXHMk3Iv69cbq5KDxtD0b54t6w-pltnyC4W2Dk_dckFr-epv2alFYkzeh2Vp0ugyvO_SEfrpMXlRvVLg/w400-h300/8D058527-70FF-47BE-9F6E-E9823213AAAC_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Scootie McScootface waiting to be picked up....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIpwpJJfwyzVecjpkHxruz_li3FPaQLhT4h6aaBImDeWCVw-PpwcO1ZtkqFlKQgrHiVQ2RiEu9q8FYMnvSEewfBGbLPPbZl_0OTMqosT0Sw1DAV0nPWel5_FTIPjqpsh4sqY6zDcvVnrno7-On0uhvaNVi8orTuiPOWa2kqGkd9heZBmXsFHmR0Dhetg/s1024/C0FA2BEF-4846-4E4C-8997-9D417A6BA4EB_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIpwpJJfwyzVecjpkHxruz_li3FPaQLhT4h6aaBImDeWCVw-PpwcO1ZtkqFlKQgrHiVQ2RiEu9q8FYMnvSEewfBGbLPPbZl_0OTMqosT0Sw1DAV0nPWel5_FTIPjqpsh4sqY6zDcvVnrno7-On0uhvaNVi8orTuiPOWa2kqGkd9heZBmXsFHmR0Dhetg/w400-h300/C0FA2BEF-4846-4E4C-8997-9D417A6BA4EB_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just sold...and awaiting her new maiden voyage</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='403' height='335' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzPxFG51rQgb7NbjYUfyQ0GVqA6NFQG4bQNn8wJhN0fA0aFE5PhsT155T4tAa3Ov9YajWHK6bdECQpFr7rq8w' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Goodbye and thanks for all the memories!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJD1VSt4Gsjgp06Yk9izGzpxnWTrCSdDy4JImNStpR_bMLV9H6htqm6g9GbN8pd7wBVSyPngmOjmPA-uxyephzcIowcRMj84f3L2JjroKPRYhu0-nQYM3Q13DIOea-GjXN9VWRE1l1DYQG_AckUt4NV0TkG1OiE5kF8MNyjY8c5owsxkqrL0hKLF_gog/s1024/37A926A3-C758-4F67-B703-14D1A44B15A5_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJD1VSt4Gsjgp06Yk9izGzpxnWTrCSdDy4JImNStpR_bMLV9H6htqm6g9GbN8pd7wBVSyPngmOjmPA-uxyephzcIowcRMj84f3L2JjroKPRYhu0-nQYM3Q13DIOea-GjXN9VWRE1l1DYQG_AckUt4NV0TkG1OiE5kF8MNyjY8c5owsxkqrL0hKLF_gog/w400-h300/37A926A3-C758-4F67-B703-14D1A44B15A5_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Picking up the new ride in Phoenix!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1A802q9uFnlplP-DyD3QZZ6MkBYdg8vMhRuJ4EsZWTcFp3Ajj_5Wneqgs0MfOn6EZihC1AETPtUYCvLiK2gJn-YiaCIDXR4MI0sM_PkJyC1fETq5Gb6n4mrr5r0XmQFJIDUyLU74_xOSnsIhhxLtASQ7qGyYAbu_uoDnHRM_FS-lpq9oC49sm4AkRbg/s1024/21E2BB22-507D-4FD8-97CB-3D8F286C6CA0_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1A802q9uFnlplP-DyD3QZZ6MkBYdg8vMhRuJ4EsZWTcFp3Ajj_5Wneqgs0MfOn6EZihC1AETPtUYCvLiK2gJn-YiaCIDXR4MI0sM_PkJyC1fETq5Gb6n4mrr5r0XmQFJIDUyLU74_xOSnsIhhxLtASQ7qGyYAbu_uoDnHRM_FS-lpq9oC49sm4AkRbg/w300-h400/21E2BB22-507D-4FD8-97CB-3D8F286C6CA0_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On her maiden voyage!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In early June, and after a decent amount of training, I was set to ride the 75-mile Lake Tahoe bike ride. Sadly, due to circumstances outside my control, we had to cancel the trip rather last minute. Rather than get down about it, I opted instead to do a virtual ride in Flagstaff. So, I geared up on the Saturday of the ride, and biked about 38 miles out of town, and 38 miles back. It was a nice day out on the bike, and felt good, but obviously wasn't quite the same as riding around the beautiful Lake Tahoe.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirulYB3FkimoerlvDhbLN4zsPftukuzcd8DeCSwK_i7jar9UBTYaWRY0ZEJtoUS3HV4Te5UclpuDdd9K49BkK0Ap9_ua-6OO_-N0o-wlBvLD-77fI-OYpoizpakdoZHwb5a6PX0a4TaViRsa14xmuGjnxMTZaAq7y3aGsSVnaNtp6rdWvDQMroWVawCw/s1024/8B640515-E797-4C75-BCEA-2564E1069564_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirulYB3FkimoerlvDhbLN4zsPftukuzcd8DeCSwK_i7jar9UBTYaWRY0ZEJtoUS3HV4Te5UclpuDdd9K49BkK0Ap9_ua-6OO_-N0o-wlBvLD-77fI-OYpoizpakdoZHwb5a6PX0a4TaViRsa14xmuGjnxMTZaAq7y3aGsSVnaNtp6rdWvDQMroWVawCw/w300-h400/8B640515-E797-4C75-BCEA-2564E1069564_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Starting my 75-mile Virtual Tahoe Ride</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='388' height='323' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwvIiHyrGe28H9j41GIBuHtq-aTh4fRNA7U9gYrNUQ2zkwsE4zAc0O7XGOp_litl06-81SlnmEfX03oTzefOw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Finishing my 75-mile Tahoe Ride!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In late June came the Fires in Flagstaff. We were hit hard here in town with two large wildfires: The Pipeline fire and the Tunnel Fire. Both burned nearly half of the large peaks in town. But, before all of the forests shut down, I was able to host a group ride amongst friends that I dubbed, "NAZMAT" or the Northern Arizona Motorcycle Adventure Tour. I marketed it as a 4-day group ride around various quadrants of Flagstaff. The first two days were incredible, but by day 3, we were shut down due to the fires....so had to cut it short. Still, we had a great time, and for a first stab at hosting a larger group ride, I think it went pretty well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="295" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DJowO4iIAcU" width="403" youtube-src-id="DJowO4iIAcU"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pbaJmjXZFEhsQP4DGOsda8T3AwXRna_u1io2_JFEsIOeK_QcPZmM_fbsA8nlK76VXUP18Rscj62JzeoD9x3EPDYjVUnO8irNvZQXTZ_WYO224xZpmTYp19zPAbsSjMawumBM4JF5OhurSDjOsHnuS8SM_Wi1u3DWaDXwutc67vn8C8zK1arAnL63fw/s1024/0374BD9C-8769-4BA5-95B1-22F65D4809DA_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5pbaJmjXZFEhsQP4DGOsda8T3AwXRna_u1io2_JFEsIOeK_QcPZmM_fbsA8nlK76VXUP18Rscj62JzeoD9x3EPDYjVUnO8irNvZQXTZ_WYO224xZpmTYp19zPAbsSjMawumBM4JF5OhurSDjOsHnuS8SM_Wi1u3DWaDXwutc67vn8C8zK1arAnL63fw/w400-h300/0374BD9C-8769-4BA5-95B1-22F65D4809DA_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fires in Flagstaff</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjji80Fi-pnVI0ZzovyqJA9eajiIdCLR5m4SLe6D6rVrNpTthZvNYvJpG2EvMkWkEO14ALjm2tgx9QCD3V4ZhJjGEJ5eelFMAuMXjhpR8Xb6l1yUWf8C6xfnkoVJi7gj_Gjkk2JkDgvreoBynyRP4ToCCeD-xGf2drCs6s_AmOA2-LZ5GpykGKjLSUUIg/s1024/66469AE1-EDE6-490E-B601-D1948236F842_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjji80Fi-pnVI0ZzovyqJA9eajiIdCLR5m4SLe6D6rVrNpTthZvNYvJpG2EvMkWkEO14ALjm2tgx9QCD3V4ZhJjGEJ5eelFMAuMXjhpR8Xb6l1yUWf8C6xfnkoVJi7gj_Gjkk2JkDgvreoBynyRP4ToCCeD-xGf2drCs6s_AmOA2-LZ5GpykGKjLSUUIg/w400-h300/66469AE1-EDE6-490E-B601-D1948236F842_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The gang on the start of Day 2</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLOlW_DIkIjrTd0PyEuM6pd4zTqe-pGQQZSxhL-FPv4XV1fuaNrLCleI-F-S8NGPKH9NQ6QO6tnIiED0CzP5yfEvGYVSnBYT9rUDthy5FTUC9kMlyXhBCxcLDS4rTDtl1RYoeytfi4WFT6sPuAsJuRpKQes1-Byo5q1UahkUBK2ftfOkLrLq_GWoDmA/s1024/F99A5B5E-AABB-476C-80E3-8DB027972A30_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLOlW_DIkIjrTd0PyEuM6pd4zTqe-pGQQZSxhL-FPv4XV1fuaNrLCleI-F-S8NGPKH9NQ6QO6tnIiED0CzP5yfEvGYVSnBYT9rUDthy5FTUC9kMlyXhBCxcLDS4rTDtl1RYoeytfi4WFT6sPuAsJuRpKQes1-Byo5q1UahkUBK2ftfOkLrLq_GWoDmA/w400-h300/F99A5B5E-AABB-476C-80E3-8DB027972A30_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The gang on the start of Day 1</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After NAZMAT and the fires, things eventually calmed down a bit. My young nephew came to visit for a few days and we enjoyed some adventures around town and down in Sedona. The big highlights were renting a 4x4 vehicle and tearing it up on some tracks around the red rocks, and going up to see the Grand Canyon. At one point, we even got to take our the neighbors Honda 50cc mini bike for a spin...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='400' height='332' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw72NH4GFzI51yXkkV6KhdY--BG6kLmP76FlOcZ6BUeVDHwD0sNvgck2WOvL8SPBgFmKdS2VOZ1JeuewJwg_g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">4-wheelin'</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUmMq7Zrsxu7BI-KRj5F04j07WyvcEzTlYx_ymKmmSYprdSqhbumrQr7CLSkF0zrFoiWQiATJr4FBmmLrctxJ9_WHCKeBh9EmFSq4ac9hQ6Or54Tf60U8ry-C4yCeaQTDAOsR3VXuQFNz6upwcIjz4-Y9WtHDoiQtpdcZSknr9YD-MBXJ-kPaagabGpA/s1024/79C4520B-967F-472E-968A-FAE6E4F53F42_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUmMq7Zrsxu7BI-KRj5F04j07WyvcEzTlYx_ymKmmSYprdSqhbumrQr7CLSkF0zrFoiWQiATJr4FBmmLrctxJ9_WHCKeBh9EmFSq4ac9hQ6Or54Tf60U8ry-C4yCeaQTDAOsR3VXuQFNz6upwcIjz4-Y9WtHDoiQtpdcZSknr9YD-MBXJ-kPaagabGpA/w400-h300/79C4520B-967F-472E-968A-FAE6E4F53F42_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The big ditch</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTA0TF_UODyq0psgKntArmSC6MrUJeZiT1fa7xBPiyJ9ssnZ8dfuK8AYS4kXV5CDbLeztzwLLQxCaUge3ULImZ4AF5XfH7tOI44qkDSR1ViIg14u6FfkDhH2Qf4BqnwG9NTE8TNQkUXsdsdbBMdW6t0IbqLwTk_rVJv4_Zl9O3kIEL3cDJOk8VvH6Aw/s858/A9866C1D-B2E2-4A7B-B9E6-B9162C032AFD_1_201_a.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="858" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiTA0TF_UODyq0psgKntArmSC6MrUJeZiT1fa7xBPiyJ9ssnZ8dfuK8AYS4kXV5CDbLeztzwLLQxCaUge3ULImZ4AF5XfH7tOI44qkDSR1ViIg14u6FfkDhH2Qf4BqnwG9NTE8TNQkUXsdsdbBMdW6t0IbqLwTk_rVJv4_Zl9O3kIEL3cDJOk8VvH6Aw/w400-h281/A9866C1D-B2E2-4A7B-B9E6-B9162C032AFD_1_201_a.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">4-wheelin'</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45mEP3EpMUuQfstulqk0w1NW4G59RxQvUjV_bgB4H2nm8VtI83BoSMIzdu902cm0XyxkVBgtkC279HBcb9L1OgUYS4VKEqb2xfDtAqsKDs4chcLLg_ClFEhMyglt-Lb-NgLyji03S4WaIAs-wnSf6piTMiPsN0MSNZOUsIU_7fUslvFfCdWgMYHSZkQ/s1024/AE5C653B-7326-43DE-BE7F-4B6D0A2CAD2D_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45mEP3EpMUuQfstulqk0w1NW4G59RxQvUjV_bgB4H2nm8VtI83BoSMIzdu902cm0XyxkVBgtkC279HBcb9L1OgUYS4VKEqb2xfDtAqsKDs4chcLLg_ClFEhMyglt-Lb-NgLyji03S4WaIAs-wnSf6piTMiPsN0MSNZOUsIU_7fUslvFfCdWgMYHSZkQ/w400-h300/AE5C653B-7326-43DE-BE7F-4B6D0A2CAD2D_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Exploring Walnut Canyon cliff dwellings</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUF1aVtnWhxmj1nYGiD1weiBFDMCwfcUlGkX-t_oInzzYHakqEL5FpCSzfuldBwrScDwAUXAyQR8mDDLOh79uFt-jjsDBUpHEiFYsiSQ35AjtgCemPtwrhTJAexKmnpgkIQkssXqSPUN_eUWLq3RzVwLodRu_PPKTNCgP-kO5XcQQLOTLTbL4HbvawGw/s1024/EE103E5F-0569-4512-AB8F-EA29F545D6E2_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUF1aVtnWhxmj1nYGiD1weiBFDMCwfcUlGkX-t_oInzzYHakqEL5FpCSzfuldBwrScDwAUXAyQR8mDDLOh79uFt-jjsDBUpHEiFYsiSQ35AjtgCemPtwrhTJAexKmnpgkIQkssXqSPUN_eUWLq3RzVwLodRu_PPKTNCgP-kO5XcQQLOTLTbL4HbvawGw/w400-h300/EE103E5F-0569-4512-AB8F-EA29F545D6E2_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Among the red rocks of Sedona</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='409' height='340' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzj3YA5Eu3MLyiXh6I5JhUpbwBj81Qhyh0TMNLx61NZNcu1AfEV3bC4mPB3h8OXtiAZML5-YOEKd0Ip-WE6Hw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I spent a lot of the Summer taking fun day trips around the trails of Flagstaff on the Honda Trail 125...specifically exploring single track trails, but as July rolled in, so did my preparation for another multi-day moto-camping trip up to the Hardrock 100. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="352" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9ZnhRqvkXrk" width="423" youtube-src-id="9ZnhRqvkXrk"></iframe></div>Some fun on single tracks....<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Unlike last year, my plan this year would be to go up through Utah and explore Moab before heading into Colorado, summiting a couple fo 14ers, and then eventually making my way down to Silverton for the race. My trip, much like last year, had its ups and downs. Most notably, I had a few hard spills on the trails and sustained a flat tire at one point. It all added to the "adventure" aspect of the trip, but certainly wasn't ideal. I was able to successfully summit two additional 14ers on the trip though, bringing my total up to 53 of 58. I just need 5 more peaks to have them all!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="335" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QOrkVULnLYg" width="403" youtube-src-id="QOrkVULnLYg"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Day 1 Highlights</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLXfCH2nYOP_4nG30YRL-xJBgcTwePmv_pBI993tCZd42XuBS_LWgke9SX_NYlDsbZpJi0Hl_wjF82_abUN8zXcwAVPUlE17pxjTJUw9uGdbXxIuKPM2q8FboQN9q8HcLt2C_9lGVVBQFnN5IkdovWEWmKb8NuFNYQBzRYDB3zTpjMrPs-npeY44NbIw/s1022/BDCA120E-14E2-4B3B-8798-81CE4E29284B_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1022" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLXfCH2nYOP_4nG30YRL-xJBgcTwePmv_pBI993tCZd42XuBS_LWgke9SX_NYlDsbZpJi0Hl_wjF82_abUN8zXcwAVPUlE17pxjTJUw9uGdbXxIuKPM2q8FboQN9q8HcLt2C_9lGVVBQFnN5IkdovWEWmKb8NuFNYQBzRYDB3zTpjMrPs-npeY44NbIw/w400-h300/BDCA120E-14E2-4B3B-8798-81CE4E29284B_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Monument Valley</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDl4DDFnxNPoS_THzxK0GkTjzDFAgamduvPMNVNFdpUNWudK812y1oDUNVJxZODG-9lN777u1UvSxZZhjGLaD8ESDDQaBq7z4lg7gXbL2fACJzKp-yvwuzvojsIwaGENIRYjJk5-2l_u7zkHYMV2nGr8C7_ganNjIP1Ck1Pup5NiOCbZjJF8ICaoi-6w/s1054/B176E03C-DB23-448A-AB5A-45B8CAF451AC_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="745" data-original-width="1054" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDl4DDFnxNPoS_THzxK0GkTjzDFAgamduvPMNVNFdpUNWudK812y1oDUNVJxZODG-9lN777u1UvSxZZhjGLaD8ESDDQaBq7z4lg7gXbL2fACJzKp-yvwuzvojsIwaGENIRYjJk5-2l_u7zkHYMV2nGr8C7_ganNjIP1Ck1Pup5NiOCbZjJF8ICaoi-6w/w400-h283/B176E03C-DB23-448A-AB5A-45B8CAF451AC_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Loaded up, just before leaving...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1uD57SlgNW97915IT1zKA-c3O-Qs1TkKfoR1jtpq4AiP0aDqrFJXBQCmMZuNnYa9vM8pCpuPNCTNDCYAs0lk2TSlKHBTDcl1sD6fm3dmNoQWoZdzjbaBOV9CgYQUEJHLeszHE26CW1E7ZSa-Jwie4hmu586YJ5Zfw6145FW-U4jxYEEoMxipNldhoVQ/s1024/B04C389D-6C0C-486D-AAE3-96E5F58913C7_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1uD57SlgNW97915IT1zKA-c3O-Qs1TkKfoR1jtpq4AiP0aDqrFJXBQCmMZuNnYa9vM8pCpuPNCTNDCYAs0lk2TSlKHBTDcl1sD6fm3dmNoQWoZdzjbaBOV9CgYQUEJHLeszHE26CW1E7ZSa-Jwie4hmu586YJ5Zfw6145FW-U4jxYEEoMxipNldhoVQ/w400-h300/B04C389D-6C0C-486D-AAE3-96E5F58913C7_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Canyonlands Utah</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi07GQaH80ZkgZrzgP_fArE3pBYSHAiOQx02sB8-XFA9MltIkY_nxrDqoMGZlj1Fw4zrBOMTHOTTPfD-cOQAbIwDT_Bn5yTO6sLf1wyjHXAkvQmHJqxpqneu27-t9Ht7oTtTcRm8_O3u-Be5A2uioad6cDWr-HDmPr0A1jifBqwJ3WlJWzz2zpYVgWGqg/s1022/A381D56D-AB79-4AC2-B0C1-01930CE04D0A_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1022" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi07GQaH80ZkgZrzgP_fArE3pBYSHAiOQx02sB8-XFA9MltIkY_nxrDqoMGZlj1Fw4zrBOMTHOTTPfD-cOQAbIwDT_Bn5yTO6sLf1wyjHXAkvQmHJqxpqneu27-t9Ht7oTtTcRm8_O3u-Be5A2uioad6cDWr-HDmPr0A1jifBqwJ3WlJWzz2zpYVgWGqg/w400-h300/A381D56D-AB79-4AC2-B0C1-01930CE04D0A_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Goosenecks State Park</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiK-uXIlCtIAuS82eg8FzNTBOaPVbs2k4pN5qs9nH_rHKUCwTW25MZgrHYs9PdG_r1GpP9BIMXm077LYZyfLTJPu5jg4k3wL-vy1rf0vTx9QtFXB8OmIGRhx5jQddCHXgRq53XX3ifqDtH_jFCCoCJhRyyJPQT3UKg-UAq0Z45ysabLXwLGSrMex00HA/s1024/903920E7-605E-4DC0-9320-EA211996B261_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiK-uXIlCtIAuS82eg8FzNTBOaPVbs2k4pN5qs9nH_rHKUCwTW25MZgrHYs9PdG_r1GpP9BIMXm077LYZyfLTJPu5jg4k3wL-vy1rf0vTx9QtFXB8OmIGRhx5jQddCHXgRq53XX3ifqDtH_jFCCoCJhRyyJPQT3UKg-UAq0Z45ysabLXwLGSrMex00HA/w400-h300/903920E7-605E-4DC0-9320-EA211996B261_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On Conundrum Peak looking at Castle Peak</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="337" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wH6zqZbndl0" width="406" youtube-src-id="wH6zqZbndl0"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Day 3 Highlights</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPZ4uNhecHN8S3P8TXVpsgTgzhIx7CpTc5zPN17t8LB_GlrYCpzD12kM_QZjMRV-YHpLWZMQOhFchq2UclO3uluF0PEhj3ZfXUJPO7NKWa8aADeNfDr9nzatINzxzLkC95oWhcKujbDIvlGuhrMOAX2PS75kgTvI5IU-IGpXRD8TKABoip2Iz8EpdVA/s1024/86793D0E-E225-479C-9E43-B4C97C357A47_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRPZ4uNhecHN8S3P8TXVpsgTgzhIx7CpTc5zPN17t8LB_GlrYCpzD12kM_QZjMRV-YHpLWZMQOhFchq2UclO3uluF0PEhj3ZfXUJPO7NKWa8aADeNfDr9nzatINzxzLkC95oWhcKujbDIvlGuhrMOAX2PS75kgTvI5IU-IGpXRD8TKABoip2Iz8EpdVA/w300-h400/86793D0E-E225-479C-9E43-B4C97C357A47_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mexican Hat Utah</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTM24r9GW4Sq2aB0Ca3iTlnLsAFPimJssTWiGJqDEiTPOHvRA27bI4USK9nqXXvrsMzKou6QCMGt6nEJatf_Y-k_EuDta7L6bVZzMoI1_j8dz0uiX6vGWZFd929ERoI2EruJjZ_z-nRbubjyMrKf3u9bnSwYYk2rBCFSarPEgUdNcKug8fZ1xu6mwoDA/s1334/31BF4E4E-C0CC-47F8-9531-F008BC2B95FA.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1334" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTM24r9GW4Sq2aB0Ca3iTlnLsAFPimJssTWiGJqDEiTPOHvRA27bI4USK9nqXXvrsMzKou6QCMGt6nEJatf_Y-k_EuDta7L6bVZzMoI1_j8dz0uiX6vGWZFd929ERoI2EruJjZ_z-nRbubjyMrKf3u9bnSwYYk2rBCFSarPEgUdNcKug8fZ1xu6mwoDA/w400-h225/31BF4E4E-C0CC-47F8-9531-F008BC2B95FA.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At the start of the Hardrock 100</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo7mRAyquNBPXk0sPR9TM2kw618Mo_SvO8BfjLXVKyZD13ZGMjieIU2FHxCOpicKhwWEQg2P3hb7v2RXcyafw4iJxffkynJ64agg03eVnFP2Rz5eTdo3LDti5K78sfIg6AFjI7P5DYNDbDiWS4rizbRW03dnl5tCkEYAD6o1Bx5fPY0HXmETzExvQq5w/s1022/3BC16109-2C40-4A4E-86D5-4F20368C698D_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1022" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo7mRAyquNBPXk0sPR9TM2kw618Mo_SvO8BfjLXVKyZD13ZGMjieIU2FHxCOpicKhwWEQg2P3hb7v2RXcyafw4iJxffkynJ64agg03eVnFP2Rz5eTdo3LDti5K78sfIg6AFjI7P5DYNDbDiWS4rizbRW03dnl5tCkEYAD6o1Bx5fPY0HXmETzExvQq5w/w400-h300/3BC16109-2C40-4A4E-86D5-4F20368C698D_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Resting in a hammock in Colorado</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6cszLGN5jLrYzm8kQtWjJs8jv1ih-cC9bNYSxg02me2z9rJDW2y3nuNHChL9j5zX1rH7OTKewhLOC8RWni9CZeUd9QT0YKBFKsBD4cYGsKU7KeXHVxvBjEW9Rm9SvogwJa0nnA7t_UdBOEaSgga2JXUgnqf5Gj4_4KuvWQM3L7wfW3EA_26iRhCSuNA/s1024/0EFA384B-78B2-4E8C-9C7D-434F9140DC12_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6cszLGN5jLrYzm8kQtWjJs8jv1ih-cC9bNYSxg02me2z9rJDW2y3nuNHChL9j5zX1rH7OTKewhLOC8RWni9CZeUd9QT0YKBFKsBD4cYGsKU7KeXHVxvBjEW9Rm9SvogwJa0nnA7t_UdBOEaSgga2JXUgnqf5Gj4_4KuvWQM3L7wfW3EA_26iRhCSuNA/w400-h300/0EFA384B-78B2-4E8C-9C7D-434F9140DC12_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On Castle Peak</div></div></div><div><br /></div><div>The remainder of the summer was pretty relaxed. I spent some time on the Brompton and made a few modifications to it to make it a bit lighter. Otherwise, though, most of my other "spare" time was spent just screwing around on the Honda or getting ready for the Fall semester.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="333" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/p1iEYi3DKXg" width="401" youtube-src-id="p1iEYi3DKXg"></iframe></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">At one point, C and I did make it up to Page AZ, for a little mini-vacation, and I got to swim in the very low Lake Powell. I also took a short day trip out to one of my favorite places, Meteor Crater.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Vo803xEy57zqpwyNdE3sW0xrLRvj2XpRVWFYcNf1Zs0OLGlpUrBqKEY3kVSghKa5r5UFaFRhbQ_xY7Pz3Mgyd_q635JYe18jYkRfgtvnMAbi9uCHKyGbXvTgSqRzQDibQN6S6slCG1NaXKFIQ28CNzAztTs4Pen2bFCSucvkDoCDIBC8C7a3JyiQXg/s1024/DA9ADDCC-527D-42F4-9B00-9F5EB15FA607_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Vo803xEy57zqpwyNdE3sW0xrLRvj2XpRVWFYcNf1Zs0OLGlpUrBqKEY3kVSghKa5r5UFaFRhbQ_xY7Pz3Mgyd_q635JYe18jYkRfgtvnMAbi9uCHKyGbXvTgSqRzQDibQN6S6slCG1NaXKFIQ28CNzAztTs4Pen2bFCSucvkDoCDIBC8C7a3JyiQXg/w400-h300/DA9ADDCC-527D-42F4-9B00-9F5EB15FA607_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Lake Powell dip</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnSoHQzdi33HqYURrVKKRh-5ugvwcOEI5qQo1BD99alK1vhhmrj4subZbmXQhvHT_xyY9d9gp8aUpupEw9yTKqfq7EilHfWevEY90PYlDORlnWFqHWEwzwZ1iuUrJUYpmshVkz-qJdlvHRh2sHz5EW8wmoE9rcOvXQPBNN2lvCANejzst9B4dGk5zTbQ/s1024/6C795221-0E20-4D04-B5A2-242AF00101CC_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnSoHQzdi33HqYURrVKKRh-5ugvwcOEI5qQo1BD99alK1vhhmrj4subZbmXQhvHT_xyY9d9gp8aUpupEw9yTKqfq7EilHfWevEY90PYlDORlnWFqHWEwzwZ1iuUrJUYpmshVkz-qJdlvHRh2sHz5EW8wmoE9rcOvXQPBNN2lvCANejzst9B4dGk5zTbQ/w400-h300/6C795221-0E20-4D04-B5A2-242AF00101CC_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Meteor Crater</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoT8dGWFeSSwqpsMCV7WqOVhJPNBgAIYPy3IXCMMPqLn6-sCXP1D1razJAui1L_LSyUd99QIDBWcu4n8NJ70myswKuh8Ic2vQu-M7DaavEnnu4_kr_raDs9hlwr7XSK8ChXy4I994RCJleH34cCEVNqg6OM6WQ0gBVLfdDsMjrHZGOk9gy12_JSPlDhw/s1024/D06BBB8A-3D1E-4838-A5F8-CE728664D890_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoT8dGWFeSSwqpsMCV7WqOVhJPNBgAIYPy3IXCMMPqLn6-sCXP1D1razJAui1L_LSyUd99QIDBWcu4n8NJ70myswKuh8Ic2vQu-M7DaavEnnu4_kr_raDs9hlwr7XSK8ChXy4I994RCJleH34cCEVNqg6OM6WQ0gBVLfdDsMjrHZGOk9gy12_JSPlDhw/w400-h300/D06BBB8A-3D1E-4838-A5F8-CE728664D890_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Some old buildings outside of Meteor Crater</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As Fall picked up and classes began, I also started picking back up my running. I participated in my first ultra since Zion, by running a local 6-hour event. Additionally, I finally reached the acceptance phase with my age and admitted to myself that I needed glasses. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifukuijxnNkxVw6f1o53NIRocKLrBflapcC7EMCokOJErVNqh3oAf0Y561_-TO7Omz5AWuSMHkB9EATuyVN3363Ct0NnYo43jDeOrQRkky3cTxVnVR-NbMv9K-FlzZ_-GeM7K0imvJYbjXQw9pHxraMeXEoJeiwL4c141w2nx_x3L64hrp0E_fXOLL_A/s1022/7A2F1DA5-F75E-452A-B51C-3A88CB0B8C18_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1022" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifukuijxnNkxVw6f1o53NIRocKLrBflapcC7EMCokOJErVNqh3oAf0Y561_-TO7Omz5AWuSMHkB9EATuyVN3363Ct0NnYo43jDeOrQRkky3cTxVnVR-NbMv9K-FlzZ_-GeM7K0imvJYbjXQw9pHxraMeXEoJeiwL4c141w2nx_x3L64hrp0E_fXOLL_A/w300-h400/7A2F1DA5-F75E-452A-B51C-3A88CB0B8C18_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The new eyeballs...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The remainder of the Fall and into Winter was honestly somewhat of a blur. I took several short rides on the two different bikes as the days were getting considerable shorter and colder...and even went on a fun hike up Slate Mountain north of Town. I spent quite a bit of time with my dog playing outside and taking hikes as well. We managed to catch the Aspen changing up on the mountain this year. At one point in the Fall, I went on a fun mini-adventure over to Sitgreaves mountain outside of town. I rode the Honda to the base of the mountain, and then essentially bushwacked off trail to the summit. It was.....an interesting little jaunt to say the least.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhm0dSABHq2QPSIF6TOmVE0NNhiiihukF5lTWf4-px6qhKNL0FPd6UHnn98WTVwQk42fdy93sP3OBQ05OBHZWovsk3UAILDpBJcnFaQa5uzHZ1MKMllni6LjcqMUx1zNIHFfs4MrVDXNICP-6q-LdzIfUBvWP5ZYficivHFjXczt4SkX0GFnVSz6nAw/s1024/781D3FB9-2259-40AE-B7B2-F3F4E12042A4_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhm0dSABHq2QPSIF6TOmVE0NNhiiihukF5lTWf4-px6qhKNL0FPd6UHnn98WTVwQk42fdy93sP3OBQ05OBHZWovsk3UAILDpBJcnFaQa5uzHZ1MKMllni6LjcqMUx1zNIHFfs4MrVDXNICP-6q-LdzIfUBvWP5ZYficivHFjXczt4SkX0GFnVSz6nAw/w400-h300/781D3FB9-2259-40AE-B7B2-F3F4E12042A4_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A Fall ride on the Honda</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf2aUeY6Yqq-6jxzeShm3cLKnBNPoJDsEYLUXcnoEfzumIvMITiytJ5XbwrAR-6e6P7JgZWgmYQFnpfq1nn-GBAqantPoX5DnnLyEqUaVLtH0-QI4cW9NFfn8v2YjNOhr8bVjDlaGDN-6zGfxqYW6weZfqB4uxPW0Xq43FjhOXH8yx2krncTNwvws3TQ/s1024/84237E8A-A6E1-47AF-B553-C8E0738F84F7_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf2aUeY6Yqq-6jxzeShm3cLKnBNPoJDsEYLUXcnoEfzumIvMITiytJ5XbwrAR-6e6P7JgZWgmYQFnpfq1nn-GBAqantPoX5DnnLyEqUaVLtH0-QI4cW9NFfn8v2YjNOhr8bVjDlaGDN-6zGfxqYW6weZfqB4uxPW0Xq43FjhOXH8yx2krncTNwvws3TQ/w400-h300/84237E8A-A6E1-47AF-B553-C8E0738F84F7_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A Fall ride on the Himalayan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKOjZ4qH3pJ1cfyBu4bsbKWsszdsPeSVKoMXsfXaMTw0rLQEfi8z-V30rlaYrO5OneekaJ4aeWYvgGrYfvX64WdqZCnBzUxl1A3bREtEwqsSlNItec1Apj2Zn8LIlUPbpRR2ikoXse9h42hhFpTESZ4JQl485_59_g-LIYXCBbVo8zxQvkEN25aquy5w/s1024/6D7C0EAB-A5F2-40FD-AB66-CA51F812CD49_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKOjZ4qH3pJ1cfyBu4bsbKWsszdsPeSVKoMXsfXaMTw0rLQEfi8z-V30rlaYrO5OneekaJ4aeWYvgGrYfvX64WdqZCnBzUxl1A3bREtEwqsSlNItec1Apj2Zn8LIlUPbpRR2ikoXse9h42hhFpTESZ4JQl485_59_g-LIYXCBbVo8zxQvkEN25aquy5w/w300-h400/6D7C0EAB-A5F2-40FD-AB66-CA51F812CD49_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A Northern Arizona Tarantula just a few miles down from my house.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubKhZMmvLEHXxp__E98ieAQYTSVOuhYl1lc3fQThcD_6BEEboWyJkH19LXNn6CfSqA5Cbnlr9fd1XKScOrPaGhwgcYlzvynMmJP4b0ITQ7ZDn6c3yXXWtfZaUJh2lT-yV0Hz06PRUfvHW3fvrhPS8pPkBc6NKj9lXQ1FBhVbOpFGjGgioUo-SCQkj6Q/s1022/8CD52923-8005-47C5-81DE-3D4804398013_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1022" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjubKhZMmvLEHXxp__E98ieAQYTSVOuhYl1lc3fQThcD_6BEEboWyJkH19LXNn6CfSqA5Cbnlr9fd1XKScOrPaGhwgcYlzvynMmJP4b0ITQ7ZDn6c3yXXWtfZaUJh2lT-yV0Hz06PRUfvHW3fvrhPS8pPkBc6NKj9lXQ1FBhVbOpFGjGgioUo-SCQkj6Q/w400-h300/8CD52923-8005-47C5-81DE-3D4804398013_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On the summit of Slate Mountain</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="336" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EnhlhwxLLlg" width="404" youtube-src-id="EnhlhwxLLlg"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sitgreaves Hike n' Bike...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjopXxLjUQ-2jQgpf698D7dToJw1Lgs9x_cAImvMUgH4UNKXh-woqJ8ELjLghBntthcmcVT5s2eXFe7qO9Q7YNTohveKu4uL49fKIxbgPssV267vuvSZq5vO4EumWlT0Odas4WqwQhH2oRCqOFQsT7zYdlEtrq3og4E-LxmD5pB1T0rW6XCiE4qNIv21g/s1024/90EEB773-51BB-4206-85A8-C098682DD88C_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjopXxLjUQ-2jQgpf698D7dToJw1Lgs9x_cAImvMUgH4UNKXh-woqJ8ELjLghBntthcmcVT5s2eXFe7qO9Q7YNTohveKu4uL49fKIxbgPssV267vuvSZq5vO4EumWlT0Odas4WqwQhH2oRCqOFQsT7zYdlEtrq3og4E-LxmD5pB1T0rW6XCiE4qNIv21g/w400-h300/90EEB773-51BB-4206-85A8-C098682DD88C_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My doggo admiring the Aspens</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgU_MLrzVJLeTHdl6faV31f2bV9HPa7_WWwGr22nQpRL7M43lMtt1AE0zvAk9hd6snQy2l-CmVfxrebEJPI-zFt0YsHQS68t27Ic2waF_DWG7OlIx92V0E-bM_oTVGiVWkK-0gWKlcUp-iuHOaWK6LGDcgeyb28C3QT0pYl6tneB_QxH7xHCL4Du_awQ/s1024/A08D8D72-D0DE-48D9-A741-046ED3F0A2F9_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgU_MLrzVJLeTHdl6faV31f2bV9HPa7_WWwGr22nQpRL7M43lMtt1AE0zvAk9hd6snQy2l-CmVfxrebEJPI-zFt0YsHQS68t27Ic2waF_DWG7OlIx92V0E-bM_oTVGiVWkK-0gWKlcUp-iuHOaWK6LGDcgeyb28C3QT0pYl6tneB_QxH7xHCL4Du_awQ/w400-h300/A08D8D72-D0DE-48D9-A741-046ED3F0A2F9_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Peak Aspen season!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In November I took a few days to celebrate my birthday by hiding away in a cabin down in Oak Creek Canyon. We took a fun hike up the West Fork trail and it was really nice to just disconnect for a few days. We even completed an entire 1000-piece puzzle in just 36 hours. On Thanksgiving, I ran a local Turkey Trot alongside Olympic Bronze medalist Molly Seidel. She was dressed as a Turkey and eating donuts. Classic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbLh7exbW2y1lzgEtYEUJORZnwmzJvcSAcdtuscpfzDdbDKU2yd6QnE50kHkNm6r9BILpdoPYTMQ9dHm61x-bXnLAJw_JHU2SVDIWvzFrfYS2nOSMO8DOvdYMDay1naaukrrGNpWu0-xOxThQWnGYKULAtCCJ3in6vNNAelV2HHhWzdJbS1adgNMbfQ/s1024/4D4BF2AD-0B6C-48B6-886C-E491EEF424B8_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhbLh7exbW2y1lzgEtYEUJORZnwmzJvcSAcdtuscpfzDdbDKU2yd6QnE50kHkNm6r9BILpdoPYTMQ9dHm61x-bXnLAJw_JHU2SVDIWvzFrfYS2nOSMO8DOvdYMDay1naaukrrGNpWu0-xOxThQWnGYKULAtCCJ3in6vNNAelV2HHhWzdJbS1adgNMbfQ/w400-h300/4D4BF2AD-0B6C-48B6-886C-E491EEF424B8_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hiking in Oak Creek Canyon</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo_-AcWaxwb5Z08IpP1Se0Z773r73AAKv4p2xqefzAHYQs6aIriGGi-yTjOQ-5_CgoFQnwo7lSuZHRj80_5vHVLsWy1ZIentaXoBxorJyH_NTwWrA7Rse-9YT4tb-pmj3DC8Ce2s8cFoBlPz2rHa553ZGLtahUCc_jBuZMDfux_HdClzIeddoKIV1mMg/s4032/8AEB2FE0-4782-48C1-852C-E593E82B1F18_1_201_a.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo_-AcWaxwb5Z08IpP1Se0Z773r73AAKv4p2xqefzAHYQs6aIriGGi-yTjOQ-5_CgoFQnwo7lSuZHRj80_5vHVLsWy1ZIentaXoBxorJyH_NTwWrA7Rse-9YT4tb-pmj3DC8Ce2s8cFoBlPz2rHa553ZGLtahUCc_jBuZMDfux_HdClzIeddoKIV1mMg/w400-h300/8AEB2FE0-4782-48C1-852C-E593E82B1F18_1_201_a.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Puzzlin' Time!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2SQinplFZ74-bJo5TgcC6AMGGJXsLeqNbxfC5-vLExYn-uvstNBaw1QeT6c6MKvPSNAEf9_NTaRXGkGWU5w2UFq0TnbPDNsjmK9ICfUO0net1qV6CtkNIcYK_RpG2a5T41uTRQadHW8uU9j-1fIfW1TF3-TIOFDzzcQKgBLgwbnNdB9VJ_HnWKlqN3w/s1024/60C6A0FD-2358-4461-B38B-E6A50F016489_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2SQinplFZ74-bJo5TgcC6AMGGJXsLeqNbxfC5-vLExYn-uvstNBaw1QeT6c6MKvPSNAEf9_NTaRXGkGWU5w2UFq0TnbPDNsjmK9ICfUO0net1qV6CtkNIcYK_RpG2a5T41uTRQadHW8uU9j-1fIfW1TF3-TIOFDzzcQKgBLgwbnNdB9VJ_HnWKlqN3w/w300-h400/60C6A0FD-2358-4461-B38B-E6A50F016489_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Molly eating donuts....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I started December with another 6-hour event, this time down in Phoenix and made the commitment to start picking up my running again. While on the course, I discovered I was selected for BOTH Western States 100 AND the Hardrock 100 for Summer 2023. I was definitely going to have to increase my training...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgMB0lnk6qP4wiDLjuaaaG9tlIg2gcCjrZPWiqflJJt-_wGRHFi8oUovGvrIglmVUur14l__0j6BFjgNR8Yqbd_ntshsWcp5v_ZWsUxXejGmWH47fI3LARdeAP5V3purgU4a_XdnLhR41lZNrqqMgBYhLZ4y28oVmw7jFYn8VSYYn13w3LYWttu8SrQ/s1024/D3AC3739-0B84-48A9-9626-966113A611FA_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgMB0lnk6qP4wiDLjuaaaG9tlIg2gcCjrZPWiqflJJt-_wGRHFi8oUovGvrIglmVUur14l__0j6BFjgNR8Yqbd_ntshsWcp5v_ZWsUxXejGmWH47fI3LARdeAP5V3purgU4a_XdnLhR41lZNrqqMgBYhLZ4y28oVmw7jFYn8VSYYn13w3LYWttu8SrQ/w400-h300/D3AC3739-0B84-48A9-9626-966113A611FA_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">6-hour event (Fat Ox) in Phoenix where I learned about the Double.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A couple weeks later, I watched as 13 students in our Climate MS program graduated and moved on in their life journeys. It is always exciting to see the cohorts graduate.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiENm1sgt0zmMgIIamQE0_e4LnzRQiOMKIcOK4icbm_7Oj1wK3X8J3KfNEs3FTnY-jj3bh0XtlpqK0GNnLB23CqmXTzyf7xHhm9BNz9WSSOrFSgixTMe_whdph6I6cGsgDLBv5ukNpHQlcRXfDESmZk5JDSpdh0fs1ccDyxpqyknDe9wcF1h1vocTQupw/s1024/2E6090F2-CEF6-41D9-B304-6E83807AE054_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiENm1sgt0zmMgIIamQE0_e4LnzRQiOMKIcOK4icbm_7Oj1wK3X8J3KfNEs3FTnY-jj3bh0XtlpqK0GNnLB23CqmXTzyf7xHhm9BNz9WSSOrFSgixTMe_whdph6I6cGsgDLBv5ukNpHQlcRXfDESmZk5JDSpdh0fs1ccDyxpqyknDe9wcF1h1vocTQupw/w400-h300/2E6090F2-CEF6-41D9-B304-6E83807AE054_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Climate Science MS Graduates</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgBot88Tb-f_LOgAkFZoAMP6ugbtbcb2cOel9Ul0m-iN-_zaiHju009FqXsOZjUzuOs9ivtbtWD8alPR41XgCOcmOCjcei1-sv3qzqTtC3-OMj2kbEqkhTPVvXtCRCpTtY2KBzKDJmr10U9HS4X4F6bXpLCWq42WWIt5Vu16SHhpPIq3dTLnuaC94nww/s1024/9A36F20E-B34E-45C0-9D97-7853E2E7E415_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgBot88Tb-f_LOgAkFZoAMP6ugbtbcb2cOel9Ul0m-iN-_zaiHju009FqXsOZjUzuOs9ivtbtWD8alPR41XgCOcmOCjcei1-sv3qzqTtC3-OMj2kbEqkhTPVvXtCRCpTtY2KBzKDJmr10U9HS4X4F6bXpLCWq42WWIt5Vu16SHhpPIq3dTLnuaC94nww/w400-h300/9A36F20E-B34E-45C0-9D97-7853E2E7E415_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">During Graduation</div><div><br /></div><div>For the remainder of December, I increased my running significantly and finally started hitting 50-mile weeks again. I set up an aggressive running schedule for Spring and made the mental commitment to prepare myself for the Double. I even started using the NAU track. AT one point, I even got out my bike and went on a 25-mile ride.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHE1yz-B8XsT_gAMsBRqmTr8KNTISimHsnlVPjBq03mjbcgnc3Ac7aTxZuAI_BC6hdHLRDrwjVQ_cN6jWLEDXF4n8Ww1It3S8T_ZxzR1tJG8pUrVgd3vCVrwOhExKeEl5-bsBDWGtv15fmrJnQ41xMt0B28XCTCSQDkOUdcvd4NtJVZKRtq-2H0u_8bg/s1024/9C52A19D-746D-4AB8-AC3B-8930083FCBC7_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHE1yz-B8XsT_gAMsBRqmTr8KNTISimHsnlVPjBq03mjbcgnc3Ac7aTxZuAI_BC6hdHLRDrwjVQ_cN6jWLEDXF4n8Ww1It3S8T_ZxzR1tJG8pUrVgd3vCVrwOhExKeEl5-bsBDWGtv15fmrJnQ41xMt0B28XCTCSQDkOUdcvd4NtJVZKRtq-2H0u_8bg/w400-h300/9C52A19D-746D-4AB8-AC3B-8930083FCBC7_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">NAU's track</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZBc1-7b8WvU3lpgxC2Uc3oU_wx7820kP_beqh9CeDx-2ui9Xy4miZkgq3ECTaEaoe9ds5J2rni1Jf3qfLd0nHkhiWle7aXi-98BjhhQjcdekswCD_yEUKVtKHeAmoVYnzKp36yNQY3rUir21DA2GfANiwams-1jpx5o5rh6Arjr78E4sBpogjyGcC5Q/s1024/83388198-A508-470D-A25E-C615831205E1_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZBc1-7b8WvU3lpgxC2Uc3oU_wx7820kP_beqh9CeDx-2ui9Xy4miZkgq3ECTaEaoe9ds5J2rni1Jf3qfLd0nHkhiWle7aXi-98BjhhQjcdekswCD_yEUKVtKHeAmoVYnzKp36yNQY3rUir21DA2GfANiwams-1jpx5o5rh6Arjr78E4sBpogjyGcC5Q/w400-h300/83388198-A508-470D-A25E-C615831205E1_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">December riding...</div><div><br /></div><div>But then along with the Holidays....the snows came. In the four years I've been here, I've not experienced snow quite like this. In the course of a few days, we received almost 40 inches and our entire city essentially shut down. I was relegated to running on the treadmill...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcLVlbB7TvtPzQEScpEiDQW_BUqBNE-9HpTNmm8VTH059g9y09c4LFavAD_ptbihagl560QQCzUBxvoAO6AauIXgyyF9U3pPdxOnmes7cihuC1HMaRDzLOwYwRunRJ-6KIfAyqNEkyOov2IIUMZmH1PiaugUDIK57P6Hoe3ZFfQBRXsDgJlQR5PIihHQ/s1024/10FF394F-3BA1-463A-9822-D96A48E0C26B_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcLVlbB7TvtPzQEScpEiDQW_BUqBNE-9HpTNmm8VTH059g9y09c4LFavAD_ptbihagl560QQCzUBxvoAO6AauIXgyyF9U3pPdxOnmes7cihuC1HMaRDzLOwYwRunRJ-6KIfAyqNEkyOov2IIUMZmH1PiaugUDIK57P6Hoe3ZFfQBRXsDgJlQR5PIihHQ/w300-h400/10FF394F-3BA1-463A-9822-D96A48E0C26B_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">25 inches and counting</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhELCBG_tM9RMiiA8LW51sIi1CQ7vzq7Zv61fHMgKzyIsqyaJ-Suvwj9hgXxfOtrW5VRQh3jp4L8DKl95BsUBaq2eEISfrJde2-97b8Yq8bMWYmd5FCIO7_Sb2cXym0GdjkVrnBD6yXStKOlGGKeBcWdkgvpn0YajbqwyQlRMOfvrPvAALzzhg7GinaoQ/s1024/135846B8-3D02-48CC-A628-15EAC3E8525D_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhELCBG_tM9RMiiA8LW51sIi1CQ7vzq7Zv61fHMgKzyIsqyaJ-Suvwj9hgXxfOtrW5VRQh3jp4L8DKl95BsUBaq2eEISfrJde2-97b8Yq8bMWYmd5FCIO7_Sb2cXym0GdjkVrnBD6yXStKOlGGKeBcWdkgvpn0YajbqwyQlRMOfvrPvAALzzhg7GinaoQ/w400-h300/135846B8-3D02-48CC-A628-15EAC3E8525D_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The view out the back door</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilexDoZjV4PDbQWtYyJci-INtPiHmRFbK4rNOak0w4DGlNsaWWnwaVMNBgsLttO7AEAXtF3AxKA-PoA67C7uS7ZzYvxSftq8SwkMlzIwc7iFCRdcm_P9OgKXTt-Na0SavbG7YlwwLrt0_dQmJSYBNP9Vrj7quv9lWcGINZTtALEE0V4SwoJAgHfvC97g/s1024/BCD42A0C-5CB9-4578-A635-BA4EED00FF85_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilexDoZjV4PDbQWtYyJci-INtPiHmRFbK4rNOak0w4DGlNsaWWnwaVMNBgsLttO7AEAXtF3AxKA-PoA67C7uS7ZzYvxSftq8SwkMlzIwc7iFCRdcm_P9OgKXTt-Na0SavbG7YlwwLrt0_dQmJSYBNP9Vrj7quv9lWcGINZTtALEE0V4SwoJAgHfvC97g/w400-h300/BCD42A0C-5CB9-4578-A635-BA4EED00FF85_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A freshly shoveled driveway...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I suppose the last real update and project from 2022, came in the form of some long overdue work on compiling my many adventures into a more formal and official format. I have been pecking away slowly, and putting together a list of some of my favorite places and have VERY SLOWLY been trying to put them together. I would spend 10 minutes here, or maybe twenty minutes there... But this year, I dedicated some real time to organizing these notes and thoughts and have made significant progress. I have several chapters completed now, and a full outline of what I'd like to have in the end. Ever time I finish a "chapter", I've also recorded myself reading that chapter and posted it online in the form of a Podcast. Turns out, making a podcast is literally just taking a recording, and uploading it to a central site. It then gets disseminated to various podcast platforms automatically. It's probably the easiest thing I've ever done. Very few people have listened to my posts, but I'm honestly doing it more as a record for myself, and as a way to keep me motivated. There will be 22 chapters in total, and I'm over half-way through now....so it's starting to feel like real progress. Once I've finished, I also plan to put slap it all together and put out a companion text.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've titled the entire project: <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://trekstonowhere.weebly.com">Treks to Nowhere</a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can listed to the episodes (and me blabbing away for 20 minutes at a time) or watch the companion videos below:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://trekstonowhere.weebly.com" target="_blank">TREKS TO NOWHERE WEBSITE</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/treks-to-nowhere/id1648212644"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7WnJIoZo1305fEXttZmXHi6ae9BYp2Xel7c8Lc_pOzBSqRIOVr4LNrqeO5mMYWxI46QukPGD1G45bAgBubg-Ep40Igs7g8cR0dsLz-Eqf-4PwhYoBPzTiQljlrW9qCCDLYW6B1FaweKzBtrJLggXmdzKSgEmmRQdo6um2ufNdqNGezN3VqzvDs9nwrQ/w199-h199/Podcasts_(iOS).svg.png" width="199" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/treks-to-nowhere/id1648212644">Treks to Nowhere Podcast</a></i></b></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="366" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Hx4_mYPt7Yk" width="440" youtube-src-id="Hx4_mYPt7Yk"></iframe></div><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TreksToNowhere" target="_blank">Treks to Nowhere Trailer</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="367" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VvF-Fn19DFg" width="440" youtube-src-id="VvF-Fn19DFg"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhuyzNeQFlM" target="_blank">Treks to Nowhere: Episode #1 - Nunavut</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And that just about wraps it up for 2022. There were a lot of other smaller highlights and adventures that I was lucky enough to be a part of last year that I didn't include here, but the short of it, is that I was again incredibly fortunate to have such a fulfilling and wonderful year. I look forward to 2023, and all that might come with it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Never stop exploring everyone and I'll see you up the trail,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">-Lakewood (John)</div>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-59074873785435558652022-12-06T11:48:00.007-05:002022-12-07T19:30:28.856-05:00The Double<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4WGM1E1I4M16GAzgOO45k7kbUcgU2zk7Ynyy-KNz3Q6hrYjIl1_M0bauZMgsbJ3ikHBR84gVt021PgBVQRRY600B8y07Oqjq6SiynDMbu1rmN7fpchZSFdAWrAhWlnUXUFYboXBq7UuYbmQbs1IFJZBX7qgxk0VA3cuBv6vAcG1HkC3nnHuH8_ZS_EQ/s1379/z6nr_oWjNkKl-m_GVE_9eOUHkqG-eik1VnIlerD580c-2048x1536.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1005" data-original-width="1379" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4WGM1E1I4M16GAzgOO45k7kbUcgU2zk7Ynyy-KNz3Q6hrYjIl1_M0bauZMgsbJ3ikHBR84gVt021PgBVQRRY600B8y07Oqjq6SiynDMbu1rmN7fpchZSFdAWrAhWlnUXUFYboXBq7UuYbmQbs1IFJZBX7qgxk0VA3cuBv6vAcG1HkC3nnHuH8_ZS_EQ/w400-h291/z6nr_oWjNkKl-m_GVE_9eOUHkqG-eik1VnIlerD580c-2048x1536.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> It has been a rather interesting past few days.....<p></p><p>Allow me to take you back briefly for some context. If you've read any of my posts here, you'll know I have a rather long, complicated, and storied history with two of the crown jewel races of ultrarunning: the Western States 100, and the Hardrock 100. Back in Fall of 2016 I wrote a long past about my experience (and horrible luck) with each of these races' lotteries.</p><p>The short of it is this: I started entering the lotteries for both of these races since my very first year of running ultras back in 2008. Year after year I would re-qualify and re-enter both lotteries, and then ultimately not get selected. It got to the point where it was almost comical.</p><p>I had actually convinced myself at one point that some supernatural forces were conspiring to simply not allow me to run either race. After eight years of zero luck in both lotteries, I become quite despondent about it and had mentally given up. I decided that I simply wasn't going to try any longer. That particular year my overall odds of getting selected for at least one race were over 70% and I still didn't get selected. You can read about some of this on my lotteries post here:</p><p><a href="https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2016/12/the-lotteries.html">https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2016/12/the-lotteries.html</a></p><p>The one thing that gave me a glimmer of hope, was that I was selected 39th on the Western States wait list that year. I had assumed though that it was unlikely the list would go that deep. Well...it did. But ONLY JUST BARELY. I quite literally found out I got into Western States about 12 hours before the start of the race when Gordy Ansleigh gave me his Bib Number. You can read about that experience here:</p><p><a href="https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2017/07/my-journey-to-western-states.html">https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2017/07/my-journey-to-western-states.html</a></p><p>I ended up running Western States that year (2017) and loved it, despite having some heat-related issues. Later that summer, I went back to Hardrock to captain an aid station for the race and cheer on finishers. You see I had convinced myself that I needed to earn some karma with the race to appease the lottery Gods.</p><p>Well that fall, I put my name into Hardrock once again, with 128 tickets (more than anyone else in the entire lottery). During lottery day, I went for a local 50k run to keep my mind off of things. I got home, and found out that I was selected and after 10 years...I learned I'd finally be going to Hardrock. You can read about my lottery day here:</p><p><a href="https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2017/12/hardrock-bound.html">https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2017/12/hardrock-bound.html</a></p><p>The next summer, I stood at the start line for Hardrock, and 40 hours later, kissed the rock. It was magical. You can read about my experience here:</p><p><a href="https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2018/08/my-2018-hardrock-odyssey.html">https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2018/08/my-2018-hardrock-odyssey.html</a></p><p>The very next December I re-entered both lotteries again, not expecting anything. I was thrilled to learn that somehow, despite only 4% odds, that I was selected again for Hardrock! I'd be going back to run in the opposite direction! You can read about that here:</p><p><a href="https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2018/12/around-worldand-back-to-hardrock.html">https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2018/12/around-worldand-back-to-hardrock.html</a></p><p>But the lottery gods had other plans for me. As race day approached in 2019, the run was ultimately canceled due to high-snow pack in the San Juans. Thankfully, the race committee decided to roll everyone over to the summer of 2020, so I'd still get to run again. </p><p>But then....well, Covid happened and the race was canceled for a 2nd year in a row. Not only was it canceled, but they decided to re-do the lottery and I was not re-selected. Just like that, after 2 years of waiting, my entry was revoked. Damn. I talked a little about the reality of the "New Normal" here:</p><p><a href="https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2020/04/the-reality-of-new-normal.html">https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2020/04/the-reality-of-new-normal.html</a></p><p>...and things moved on. The world continued to rotate...and revolve...and life progressed. I continued to re-enter both lotteries, and slowly accrue more tickets, and never got re-selected for either run. I went back to Hardrock two more times to captain the finish line aid station, and loved every second of it, despite a small part of me being envious of the other runners. Volunteering actually gave me an excuse to turn my trips to Silverton in to Moto-Camping adventures on my new motorcycle....as well as hike a few more 14ers.</p><p>Which brings us up to this past week.</p><p>As usual, I entered both lotteries again. Given my number of years of entering since my last runs, my odds have slowly climbed. I was somewhat hopeful for my Hardrock odds as I was at about 38.5% for that lottery. But for Western, my odds were something like 14.9%. What this means is that my odds of getting into at least one event were (1 - (.851)(.615)), or about 47.7%. But...my odds of getting selected for both was only 5.7%. </p><div>During the lotteries, I again decided to run a local ultra. I opted to run a 6-hr timed event down in Phoenix...and shoot for a 50k. I was in the middle of running this event during the lotteries, and coming in on a loop around 11:00 am, the race director gave me the news. He tells me, "John...you got into Hardrock!........(*I let out a scream of excitement*)......................and Western States"........Uhhhhh say what now??? I went from utter excitement and joy, to pure dread and anxiety. And....just like that, I am now a participant in the infamous and dreaded: "Double". These races are 3 weeks apart. It's going to be really tough. </div><p>I've always wanted to run Hardock once in each direction, and this can hopefully be my chance. As far as Western States, well I'm excited to see the course again, and share it with some great friends who also got in this year.</p><p>I'm going to sincerely miss captaining the HR finish line aid station this year. It is truly a great joy of mine to see all the finishers come in and serve them up some hot food. I will definitely try to come back to that role in 2024 if the slot is still open!</p><p>This is going to be one of the most difficult challenges I've faced yet with regards to ultrarunning, and I'm definitely not getting any younger. It'll be really hard....but I'm cautiously excited.</p><p>Now....I should probably go for a run....</p>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-47495094629744302972022-11-30T18:43:00.006-05:002022-12-01T12:30:40.599-05:00"Quiet Quitting" is a Fundamentally Terrible and Inaccurate Term<p> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB9vVSgz_1ZB9GprhHw0mUu-ICwK6NiZ2coQB2N4W2-EjQ9zEocyPciiJZBro-MCQa13LVbspPXKVEMyjeoTN7AsLd1hAjrwJpoPehGTEOT91x5uVWvWj44wGcj_B93XtCHmvu0tapcdPV25ZH-QZ7AbeLEPRijjVbK-RlOkQqawmXnWA8QCodkiHcjQ/s3088/85023067-90E8-4DC6-A72C-1E628586C791.heic"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB9vVSgz_1ZB9GprhHw0mUu-ICwK6NiZ2coQB2N4W2-EjQ9zEocyPciiJZBro-MCQa13LVbspPXKVEMyjeoTN7AsLd1hAjrwJpoPehGTEOT91x5uVWvWj44wGcj_B93XtCHmvu0tapcdPV25ZH-QZ7AbeLEPRijjVbK-RlOkQqawmXnWA8QCodkiHcjQ/w400-h300/85023067-90E8-4DC6-A72C-1E628586C791.heic" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Enjoying Some Work/Life Balance!</div><p></p><p>Ok, so this one should definitely be filed under opinion "Scribbles", and it could potentially stir up some varied and "colorful" responses. I'm willing to take that risk.</p><p>Over the past year or so, I've felt compelled to put some thoughts down on "paper" regarding this topic. More and more, I've seen this term, "Quiet Quitting", making its way around various forums, social media platforms, and mainstream media outlets. And the time has come to write about it. Allow me to come right out and say it now....</p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><b>I absolutely loathe this term.</b></i></p><p style="text-align: left;">If you don't know what this is, and/or haven't heard of it, let me first congratulate you for likely spending more time doing the various things you love, and less time on social media or tuning into to the news. Let's get this in the open right off the bat....the term "Quiet Quitting" absolutely carries with it a negative connotation. If you've seen anyone interviewed, or read any articles about it, then you likely already feel some sense of bias or distaste towards those "practicing" it. This apparent "trend" is often described in such a manner that it paints a picture of apathy, of self-loathing, of being unfulfilled, or even of depression. In many cases it's also presented as a form of intentional deceit on the part of an employee with their employer. As if they are screwing over their employer. If you still don't know for what I'm referring, allow me to paint a hypothetical picture as it might be presented by a local media outlet or news channel....</p><p style="text-align: left;"><i>Suzie works for a local private company in a corporate office. By all measures, the job is pretty good. There's good pay, nice/friendly environment, great co-workers, offers flex and remote work, and excellent benefits. Most people in Suzie's position would be incredibly grateful for such a position. Well...not Suzie. Despite not hating her job per se, she realizes it is not her 100% perfect dream job. Plus, Suzie feels a little tired of the "corporate/cubicle" life, so decides to "Quiet Quit!". Suzie begins to take a new approach. She decides to put in zero extra effort on any project and only do what's asked of her. She decides not to take any initiative on anything, volunteer for nothing, and only complete discrete tasks as they are given, and only working her minimum required hours. Suzie...like many Americans, has 'checked out'...and Quiet Quit her job! What </i><i>an entitled and lazy brat!</i></p><p style="text-align: left;">I feel like I'm at least partially qualified to speak on this topic as I've experienced many different work environments over the years, as well as many major "life changes". Before going back to grad school to study advanced geoscience topics like paleoclimatology and glaciology, I worked in a corporate ("cubicle") environment for over 7 years. When I left that job, I spent an entire summer hiking the Appalachian Trail to try something different. </p><p style="text-align: left;">Today, I'm a full-time professor at a University and work with hundreds of students on a daily basis. I direct a Climate Science graduate program that prepares students for various careers in climate science solutions across sectors. Many go on to private industry, many to non-profits, and many, to government (at various levels). I work one-on-one with many students (Millennials through Gen-Z) with regards to professional development and career planning. When I ask students to tell me what the most important thing is for them when planning for their future careers, they almost all have the same answer: <i><b>A Good Work/Life Balance</b>. </i></p><p style="text-align: left;">Now I am a member of the awkward Generation X and have the pleasure of sort-of bridging generations, but this Work/Life Balance sentiment is likely off-putting to many of those in the older generations. I can imagine some of my older late-relatives saying things like, "kids these days are so entitled and spoiled. They should be grateful to have a secure and stable job!" Well...most of the students today DO NOT CARE about securing that one job that they stay in for life. It doesn't matter how perfect the job is, how flexible the job is, how good the pay is, or how amazing the benefits are. No amount of 401k matching is going to keep these current students at one place for life. They move around. They try different things, and they value, more than anything, that life is about EXPERIENCES NOT THINGS. Most of the current students here at university are vocal anti-capitalist, and anti-commercialism. They are empathetic, caring, compassionate, care about climate change, and what to genuinely make the world a better place. Many don't have or ever want cars, and would prefer to use bicycles or public transport. More than a third of all my students are vegan because they know that it has an enormous impact on carbon emissions and is healthier by all measures. They want to start movements, be activists for important causes, and feel empowered. They want to live a life experienced. Most bring their own tumblers in for coffee, keep their own compost bins at home, and always use canvas bags when shopping. They buy books from the local bookstore and not online retailers. I listen to them speak about their passions, and it is genuinely inspiring. They all want to work, but their motivation to work is typically to make a difference, not to make money.</p><p style="text-align: left;">I can already see the steam rising from some of your ears. "They're all socialist, woke, brats! They'll care about money once they get out in to the real world!....grumble grumble..."</p><p style="text-align: left;">But here's the thing...they all end up still getting great jobs....many of which come with salaries well into the six figures too. All of the alumni from the program I direct have gone on to incredible careers. But, of the over 100 graduate students that have completed our Climate Science program, only a handful are still at the same place they were then they first graduated. This is typically not because they disliked their current or first job, they just wanted to expand into something else, or simply change trajectories. And I'm all for it! But, as I noted above, there is always one thing in common. They all stress the importance of a good work/life balance.</p><p style="text-align: left;">I consistently bring in alumni to speak with current students and they always speak to the importance of this. A job can be wonderful and fulfilling, but it will always be in many ways, just a job. This doesn't mean you can't ever feel passionate about it, and love what you do, but ultimately, it's the life we live, and the experiences we have, that typically truly fulfill us. I can absolutely understand this mentality. I can recall some minor things from my previous corporate job to some extent, but I can tell you specific daily details of my Appalachian Trail Thru-hike or my deployments to Antarctica.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Students today will absolutely not tolerate working for a company that does not value employee work/life balance. It's because of this, that I believe most younger employees of Twitter are likely going to leave in the coming weeks. People don't want to work overtime because it's "expected". They'd rather use those hours to mountain bike, or explore, or adventure, or hunt, or travel, learn a new hobby, or to simply experience the world. </p><p style="text-align: left;">...Which leads me back to "Quiet Quitting" and why I categorically abhor the term. Working what is required of you, and no more, is not "quitting" a job, nor does it mean you no longer care about your work. It simply means, that you dedicate one discrete portion of your life, your mind, and your time to your job, and no more. Are there occasions where you may have to work a little extra? Of course. A tight deadline coming up...gotta pull some late hours? Yep. But those should not be assumed. They should be exceptions. </p><p style="text-align: left;">People wanting to value a life of experiences does not mean they are "checking out" and "quitting" their jobs. It also doesn't mean they are "getting by doing the absolute minimum", or lack any initiative. A person can be an exceptional employee and be incredible passionate about their job, but ALSO be incredibly passionate about their life outside of work. If a job creeps into your outside life, that's when it can lead to "burn out" or a distaste for the work. We should ALL be doing our best to encourage people to enjoy their life experiences and not shame them if they don't want to work more than 40 hours a week. </p><p style="text-align: left;">I have recent students that have set up their new work patterns such that they work 6 month consulting jobs, so that they can backpack and travel the world during the other 6 months....and I'm absolutely all about it. I wholeheartedly support them and encourage it. </p><p>And, if an employee is doing well at their job, meeting expectations, but maybe not putting in extra hours or showing incredible initiative beyond the scope fo their job....it doesn't mean they are apathetic and "Quiet Quitting"! So please, stop using this term as one of shame. </p><p>For the record, I absolutely adore my job. I love working with students, and helping in whatever way I can to guide them along on their paths. BUT....I prioritize my life outside of work equally and won't go out of my way to work long hours outside of the week. I would rather go on an adventure....whether on two feet or two wheels. In other words, I enjoy hiking up a mountain just as much as working with my students. I feel like my life is in good balance. But I see so many of my colleagues in academia stressed to the gills about getting in "one more paper", or "one more proposal", or serving on "one more committee"...sometimes even after getting tenure! I would rather have one less publication, or one less grant funded, if it means I can live primarily stress free and enjoy my life. Will I put in the extra hours from time to time...of course! But I don't do it to the point where it disrupts that balance. </p><p style="text-align: left;">So....this post is starting to creep into Hallmark cliché territory....with the whole "life is too short" message...so I will end by simply saying. Whether we all like it or not, younger people are more and more embracing the experiences in life, and valuing their work/life balances. WE NEED TO SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGE THIS. </p><p style="text-align: left;">I've seen too many people go through life and never figure this out. So if you're reading this, don't wait, find that balance now....</p>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-27386248441360172022022-10-17T12:02:00.000-04:002022-10-17T12:02:38.507-04:00Spotlight on Climate Article and Climate Forcings<p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEVSu618FQH3P-X5PF1Jn7p-IqFVFV0r5tUttlYGg2b3WUiP_5dp89iR9oyS_62_sC_A_FX9m-ymaWQozUc8W1qka4Aoo5VPw3tnoSrv5y5AY0S8wVg33itT8xFDxgxsgstLslfZJb9pVVEej16T_vM2kidHM9HPgaRRRYUCHT4_StxhVbXC5EaDN9g/s2136/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-17%20at%208.49.45%20AM.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1386" data-original-width="2136" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEVSu618FQH3P-X5PF1Jn7p-IqFVFV0r5tUttlYGg2b3WUiP_5dp89iR9oyS_62_sC_A_FX9m-ymaWQozUc8W1qka4Aoo5VPw3tnoSrv5y5AY0S8wVg33itT8xFDxgxsgstLslfZJb9pVVEej16T_vM2kidHM9HPgaRRRYUCHT4_StxhVbXC5EaDN9g/w400-h260/Screen%20Shot%202022-10-17%20at%208.49.45%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />This past weekend I published a short opinion piece in our local newspaper here in Arizona, via a monthly segment titled "Spotlight on Climate". The theme of this article was mostly related to "abrupt" climate changes, citing a few examples of abrupt climate changes in the past, the implications of those changes, as well as our present-day climate crisis. <p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://azdailysun.com/opinion/columnists/spotlight-on-climate-what-does-the-past-tell-us-about-abrupt-climate-change/article_580a5088-4c20-11ed-8cc0-13fabac3750c.html" target="_blank">Spotlight on Climate Article</a></p><p>In the spirit of full disclosure, I would say that this specific article is notably different than the initial article I wanted to write, but wasn't received as well by the AZ Sun staff (for fear "It wouldn't be as well-understood by the general public"). </p><p>While I definitely agree that the topic of abrupt climate change is incredibly important (and relevant), I also strongly believe that the theme of my original article is actually more important for discussion at this point in our climate crisis. In all of my discussions with people over the past few years, one of the most common misconceptions that I come across, is that "Sometimes, climate just changes...and perhaps that's what's happening now". Putting aside the physics and thermodynamics of how greenhouse gases directly affect climate, I think it's REALLY important, and incumbent on all climate scientists to explain that....NO...climate does not, nor will it ever, "Just change" whimsically. Climate changes are ALWAYS driven by some forcing or "push" on the system. That push may be natural, or may be human-caused, but the point is that there is ALWAYS a push. Our climate system doesn't have moods, nor is it whimsical. It doesn't just decide to become warmer or cooler.</p><p>I find that it is paramount that this misconception be explained, corrected, and ultimately cleared from the public understanding and lexicon. With that said, I'm attaching below my original article draft:</p><p>______________________________________________</p><p><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><i>As our planet was emerging from the last ice age, something remarkable happened. As were slowly warming over thousands of years, average temperatures suddenly plummeted by as much as 18 degrees. What is particularly significant, is that this massive and abrupt change in the climate system, known as the Younger-Dryas stadial, happened over just a few decades. About a thousand years later, as the planet finally began to warm again, there was yet another abrupt shift. This time however, the Earth actually warmed almost 13 degrees in less than 10 years! These abrupt shifts had profound impacts on the environment and on the hunter gatherer settlements at the time. A similar, although less pronounced abrupt climate change also occurred about 4200 years ago that led to large-scale aridification in parts of the world and was a primary driver for the collapse of multiple civilizations across Africa and Asia. As we peer back through Earth’s climate history, we find numerous examples like these. </i></p><p><i><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Most would agree that the Earth’s climate system is incredibly complicated and dynamic, and that there are countless mechanisms and interactions at play. Scientists are able to collect and examine past climate data by looking through historical records in the recent past, and then further back through time by tapping into well-established archives known as proxies. These proxies, such as ice cores, tree rings, or corals, are able to capture details of the climate, and then lock them away much like fossil records. What we’ve discovered through examination of these proxy records, is that our past climate is not only fascinating, but that it has changed quite dramatically, and on countless occasions.</i></p><p><i><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>It is true that there is a fair amount of inertia (or stability) within our climate system, meaning that when global average temperatures do change, they tend to change somewhat slowly. Sometimes things trend warmer, sometimes colder, but sometimes, and despite that inertia, our climate can change abruptly. Regardless of the changes however, there is always one thing they all have in common. They are all caused by something. So, while the climate system is undoubtedly complex, what it is not, is whimsical. Earth’s climate never just changes entirely through random chance. There must always be a push on the system, or what is known as a “forcing”, in order for global temperatures to rise or fall. That forcing could be natural, it could be related to human activity, but regardless, climate has not, nor will it ever change, without some forcing acting upon it.</i></p><p><i><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>There are many natural forcings that scientists understand quite well, like changes in Earth’s orbit, or the energy we receive from our sun. We are also getting better at understanding the smaller variations in our climate system, such as the behavior of the jet stream, ocean currents, volcanic activity, or El Niño patterns. Today, many scientists are focused on the human-related forcings, such as increases in our fossil fuel carbon emissions. We now have vast and complicated global climate models that carry within them the complex equations and relationships tied to all of these forcings. When we look at the results we get from these global models, they are all telling us the same thing. Much like having multiple doctors all give a patient the same diagnosis, the more climate models that agree with each other, the more confident we can all be that they are giving us the right answers. </i></p><p><i><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Today, governments, organizations, and peoples of the world are all interested in where our current climate is headed. If we do believe that the models are giving us the right answers, and that the Earth will continue to warm several degrees before the end of this century, should we be worried? Is it really going to be that impactful to our massive and complex climate system given its inertia? Well what we’ve learned from all of these studies of the past, is that climate changes, even small or subtle ones, can have enormous impacts on our planet. In many cases, the more-rapid changes can actually lead to cascading feedback effects and upset systems that may be in a delicate balance. </i></p><p><i><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>In the case of the Younger Dryas event, we know it was caused by a large shift in ocean circulation and salinity that ultimately pushed on the climate system. Today, we’ve already warmed over 1°F in just the past few decades, and knowing what we now do about how even small abrupt climate changes have impacted our world in the past, it seems only fair that we should all be paying a little more attention and learning from the past.</i></p>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-70149967055793394072022-08-12T18:55:00.027-04:002022-10-17T12:51:18.003-04:00The Invisible Mountain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJYPtdbd1CHnnLcb33f-8txTSBSULIvdigLaUHOKOvMxYHF-AfogIpznpjiQ9vsuSPYq5ibKIvJDFPnfewv0dOnuAIZtMCdZkI_hXbw0LrYZIqN2XRMaquwfPfyVH5DPEEr9Q_WONVL-Sx6ct21GvefbmWA3twYSmcK1_SKqZb6CP1KycuSuEBviLxw/s3842/Snowy_Williams_District_2015_(38423066170)_(cropped).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2159" data-original-width="3842" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXJYPtdbd1CHnnLcb33f-8txTSBSULIvdigLaUHOKOvMxYHF-AfogIpznpjiQ9vsuSPYq5ibKIvJDFPnfewv0dOnuAIZtMCdZkI_hXbw0LrYZIqN2XRMaquwfPfyVH5DPEEr9Q_WONVL-Sx6ct21GvefbmWA3twYSmcK1_SKqZb6CP1KycuSuEBviLxw/w400-h225/Snowy_Williams_District_2015_(38423066170)_(cropped).jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sitgreaves Mountain</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've lived in Flagstaff now for just over 3 years. In all my time here, I've become quite familiar with all of the various topographical features in the area. I've hiked to the summit of just about every major peak, I've explored lava tube caves, and I've ventured out on some of the most remote and inaccessible roads and trails. In short...I've explored.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In all of my various local adventures, and across my myriad journeys, I have however, discovered one particularly oddity. There is one specific feature that seemingly goes unnoticed. There is a prominent mountain peak, just to the west of town, that despite being quite visible from the major interstate (I-40), no one seems to know what it is. What's more, is that no one ever talks about it, mentions it, or really even recognizes its existence at all. I like to call it, "The Invisible Peak".</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well, this peak has a name. It's called Sitgreaves Mountain.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbkZnrlmD46JnZTuzptub6VdUHisGDSsmhTJVcoGffhnjtq-7Shufz-NzPBGZBda9hvUHqr5qcz4NnaGDUjvygchM0ifRzkqruRX472JVdGV0CFZtzx5U0YYiC0JOZ95kukNEGbl7v4FgggV4zdpHd5vdZfojTJlOAV3vv4BrKdFonTc3N-T_N_ogVw/s2894/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-12%20at%201.59.35%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1730" data-original-width="2894" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbkZnrlmD46JnZTuzptub6VdUHisGDSsmhTJVcoGffhnjtq-7Shufz-NzPBGZBda9hvUHqr5qcz4NnaGDUjvygchM0ifRzkqruRX472JVdGV0CFZtzx5U0YYiC0JOZ95kukNEGbl7v4FgggV4zdpHd5vdZfojTJlOAV3vv4BrKdFonTc3N-T_N_ogVw/w400-h239/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-12%20at%201.59.35%20PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Some of the well-known and prominent features around Flagstaff.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Well...except one "Invisible Mountain"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Even over on SummitPost, their entry for Sitgreaves literally says, "This mountain stands alone along I-40, very visible, but very few bother to ask, 'What is that mountain?'. It's just passed by. Very vew people actually take the time to figure out what the name of it is, or figure out a route to the summit"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHV4PvcNlzArx3puAesazYac7irEeHW_ovpJJV4rkscKhjUIpJnzgKpmm1RdDzRuSswVVZEVVQ8FOVU5ZyWiJ6mfu0LJMOJo7WE-uRd2zVQDUqGLq2z3PLI16jV1jqb2VdIFO5r-_OamVRMnom1q9lb87VN2S8OTQvJQiIUx4ZCzcstvmEB6j1RHdYA/s2744/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-07%20at%208.27.17%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="376" data-original-width="2744" height="55" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjHV4PvcNlzArx3puAesazYac7irEeHW_ovpJJV4rkscKhjUIpJnzgKpmm1RdDzRuSswVVZEVVQ8FOVU5ZyWiJ6mfu0LJMOJo7WE-uRd2zVQDUqGLq2z3PLI16jV1jqb2VdIFO5r-_OamVRMnom1q9lb87VN2S8OTQvJQiIUx4ZCzcstvmEB6j1RHdYA/w400-h55/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-07%20at%208.27.17%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well...given my fascination with geographical oddities, I think you can see where this short post is going. This past weekend, I took a trip out to Sitgreaves Mtn. with the sole purpose of finding my way to the summit. It's important to note here, that there are no established trails up the mountain. Any trekking one does on or around the peak is entirely off-trail. It took a fair amount of planning, route finding, and research, but I was able to come away from the adventure with a successful summit (despite getting hailed on and nearly struck by lightning!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I used various websites like Summitpost and Hikearizona to determine the best routes not just to the summit, but to the mountain itself. Given that there are no established trails on the peak, even staging a vehicle for the hike can be tricky. Lucky for me, I recently picked up a very-capable new toy, that makes these types of excursions a bit more accessible. A couple of months ago I decided to sell my trusty 125cc scooter, and upgrade to something a little more robust. I opted for a new Honda Trail 125. Needless to say, this has become my go-to method of transport around town whether it is to the coffee shop, my office, or the trails. This little machine is small enough that I can explore just about anywhere on it (including single track trails), without fear of dropping it like with my much larger (and way heavier) Himalayan. In addition, it gets over 125 miles per gallon, which is definitely a plus right now in this very inflated economy. The only downside is that it means I've been using my bicycles less for my daily commutes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSf5uubPNJrby3uTM64mUM1UsH59-jRqGOZKynCr0KqyekmaOCZZ6doU24NAN2LI4Ewh-C4e2QUvBMUawj1UiE-h6DtcRmFc3i2hZZACsHSwHXvyOLa_HV0DtbtLuT-UYx62Ysn3Zo8rYrkYUOh0KvQZFdkJ5MwF8RqRXrWot5pkPg_QIgFTcvChObEQ/s1024/D3C6F320-2E35-46F1-8F6B-6652443D98AB_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSf5uubPNJrby3uTM64mUM1UsH59-jRqGOZKynCr0KqyekmaOCZZ6doU24NAN2LI4Ewh-C4e2QUvBMUawj1UiE-h6DtcRmFc3i2hZZACsHSwHXvyOLa_HV0DtbtLuT-UYx62Ysn3Zo8rYrkYUOh0KvQZFdkJ5MwF8RqRXrWot5pkPg_QIgFTcvChObEQ/w400-h300/D3C6F320-2E35-46F1-8F6B-6652443D98AB_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The new Honda Trail 125</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixeatLZK2Ya8IiuqAtH7OYaUQ3cDRVZ5PD-E8F0smCs_V9qdFE46zfqXrdKuYVnZuhaWEX0ESuYNc_rFwA6GS9o0PMZaBl2H7EUE08U1KezFQ2wOHRTQcAkUmwgQ8pOnx25Fvy23AsBBZiwRTVD_lVQfWY5chqU7pMssujJ_FfVI-qfCOjlkESispBWQ/s3840/Breakinclean.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixeatLZK2Ya8IiuqAtH7OYaUQ3cDRVZ5PD-E8F0smCs_V9qdFE46zfqXrdKuYVnZuhaWEX0ESuYNc_rFwA6GS9o0PMZaBl2H7EUE08U1KezFQ2wOHRTQcAkUmwgQ8pOnx25Fvy23AsBBZiwRTVD_lVQfWY5chqU7pMssujJ_FfVI-qfCOjlkESispBWQ/w400-h225/Breakinclean.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ripping up some single-track trails on the Honda</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I spent an afternoon last week recording some fun video clips of me playing around behind my house on the new Honda. As you can see, I really enjoy playing on this new bike...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='429' height='286' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyZSIsGmt8-nXltiN5x51VJx__wjzAErB9g3PxdYRHK8b1SYpOKhClJR4kYx870PXa8cuOpBTuGTAnBGYSGUA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So...back to Sitgreaves Mountain. I sorted out a way to get to the base of the mountain almost entirely on backroads and forest roads. On the Honda, I knew I'd have no trouble with this route. The questions started to pop up once closer to the peak. Many of the roads around the base of the mountain are not viewable on satellite imagery, and are not well-documented. I simply didn't know the condition of some of my planned roads. My hope, was to be able to take the little Honda all the way up to a high saddle just East of one of Sitgreaves sub-peaks, known simply as "Peak 9004". Then I could simply hike my way over to the primary peak of Stigreaves passing up and down several false summits and sub-peaks along the way. I would essentially be doing a ridge-line traverse from Peak 9004 over to Sitgreaves proper.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4006xIWdgpWULhQCrCq4QsXlMx_j-bWtVVgD43F7spydtxbdNd3sWuCncO9GXMZZk1UyKb8YSwlBEQG5ytJBZVOXmLAqGoaIGCPsZ_Qro6KkTen7WsBzI4BWMIc7GKLrd5nJuWIHoJ265u_Tzb7eK9y36Y0cdGXhqpUBvQXcxCgRMub_n8XfFC-aSIw/s2946/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-08%20at%2010.09.56%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1594" data-original-width="2946" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4006xIWdgpWULhQCrCq4QsXlMx_j-bWtVVgD43F7spydtxbdNd3sWuCncO9GXMZZk1UyKb8YSwlBEQG5ytJBZVOXmLAqGoaIGCPsZ_Qro6KkTen7WsBzI4BWMIc7GKLrd5nJuWIHoJ265u_Tzb7eK9y36Y0cdGXhqpUBvQXcxCgRMub_n8XfFC-aSIw/w400-h216/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-08%20at%2010.09.56%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Planned route to Sitgreaves Mtn.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4nyFgXcW0cj_5TD14hhWbey-n18WNZjQ1UrBNkDNNaQB3QP4EC6gWySATcA--cfZ4c6Cbbxxg3Dqy2AywHb0SstTRdS9PZP6wyJG7bB2c-KnSjh9yeBcS150mCGUFrrA7hqA-N3WRkMizHTBbeZI2Dn3y9tnU0k854sEBRdX2M6SIw9_zp8Uzbt2RQ/s2962/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-08%20at%2010.05.40%20AM%202.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1844" data-original-width="2962" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4nyFgXcW0cj_5TD14hhWbey-n18WNZjQ1UrBNkDNNaQB3QP4EC6gWySATcA--cfZ4c6Cbbxxg3Dqy2AywHb0SstTRdS9PZP6wyJG7bB2c-KnSjh9yeBcS150mCGUFrrA7hqA-N3WRkMizHTBbeZI2Dn3y9tnU0k854sEBRdX2M6SIw9_zp8Uzbt2RQ/w400-h249/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-08%20at%2010.05.40%20AM%202.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Planned route once at Sitgreaves Mtn.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Well, this was the plan anyway. As usual, it didn't quite work out that way. As I made my way up the roads towards my intended parking area on the saddle, the roads became increasingly technical and degraded. It was getting harder and harder to make progress, even on the small and nimble Honda Trail 125. Eventually, I split off from my intended route on a slightly better side road, and ultimately parked just a few hundred meters further down when the road simply petered out in the woods. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPbELh797nlqwE6xdvtnIkSdqlYyyXEyixTaI-0G9JXNkBMfuEY9KBgSidBsUEv9bPeDdDMsrPUSrVCm-8XbfiZtvae8-IGIGkYDtMUBtu_SzrEOQTF6MHPtjEFZJsHNmG_U8VKYEl_p_8JErCilkLq2DLvGjaGBBUF7ozM3Isni9Yg279Qx8vrhklRA/s2962/shot2.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1844" data-original-width="2962" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPbELh797nlqwE6xdvtnIkSdqlYyyXEyixTaI-0G9JXNkBMfuEY9KBgSidBsUEv9bPeDdDMsrPUSrVCm-8XbfiZtvae8-IGIGkYDtMUBtu_SzrEOQTF6MHPtjEFZJsHNmG_U8VKYEl_p_8JErCilkLq2DLvGjaGBBUF7ozM3Isni9Yg279Qx8vrhklRA/w400-h249/shot2.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Where I actually parked for the hike...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The hike proved to be much more difficult than I had anticipated. The gradients were true Barkley-level, and I found myself moving quite slowly up the steep inclines. I did eventually make it up to Peak 9004, the first of many summits that day. After a quick celebration, I began the rollercoaster hike over to Sitgreaves Mtn, going up and down several summits and sub-peaks along the way. The entire route was free hiking through the woods and while easy to navigate, was surprisingly difficult terrain. It was littered with rocks, fallen trees, and steep cambers. By the time I did finally make it to the Sitgreaves Summit, I was presented with another rather unfortunate problem. It had taken me longer than I had anticipated to make the hike, and so I was now right in the middle of peak monsoon weather. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEHC4tkPzJWdXYSWuvVIm9ZRsjEs-SaT9C5nVKUhiIgHiBHxtHvJ4nsaiqZIDrUhzfyVHDkE9TPoSx5irzQ_LG5Oii3C1h9xy2B19FE4SIVZrCu6CC_9MRmZjNVF4WjswdB0ThR4iL4WP9ZRxxPe8RvFvAbIdGWTHLu7bwMf2riarbrAJ1bzelQRQXEA/s3840/sitclean.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="3840" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEHC4tkPzJWdXYSWuvVIm9ZRsjEs-SaT9C5nVKUhiIgHiBHxtHvJ4nsaiqZIDrUhzfyVHDkE9TPoSx5irzQ_LG5Oii3C1h9xy2B19FE4SIVZrCu6CC_9MRmZjNVF4WjswdB0ThR4iL4WP9ZRxxPe8RvFvAbIdGWTHLu7bwMf2riarbrAJ1bzelQRQXEA/w400-h225/sitclean.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Snapshot from the summit of Peak 9004</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUIx5CWBpbvtVEDHxqUWVuznVUer5GwMeALhXJHeoQbkGL52lXVmSgDYocXlScJHjEHoh3GQZQ3j8JMtXz6QTfGcPRvHQ9bmPPdFqth9tQL9k7kDLwoOwLk5xV5hV-Jiu0Pzw2BZfAZAKJTcblmhdCQueaMqWvdgrIUmDPYT7bvqL3unnvzEuTGPLw-A/s2358/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-08%20at%209.44.57%20AM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1526" data-original-width="2358" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUIx5CWBpbvtVEDHxqUWVuznVUer5GwMeALhXJHeoQbkGL52lXVmSgDYocXlScJHjEHoh3GQZQ3j8JMtXz6QTfGcPRvHQ9bmPPdFqth9tQL9k7kDLwoOwLk5xV5hV-Jiu0Pzw2BZfAZAKJTcblmhdCQueaMqWvdgrIUmDPYT7bvqL3unnvzEuTGPLw-A/w400-h259/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-08%20at%209.44.57%20AM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My entire route over to Sitgreaves Mtn (GPS Track)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I didn't waste anytime on the Sitgreaves summit, and immediately started my descent. Rather than do the rollercoaster again, I opted for the slightly longer but ostensibly quicker route back that would follow a relatively stable contour around the ridges. This would also keep me off the exposed summits, which were now being threatened with lightning.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I descended, the hail, rain, and lightning soon followed. I was down far enough to be in the protection of some trees, but I was getting absolutely soaked. In addition, the lightning was frighteningly close with many strikes occurring effectively right on top of me. In addition, all the rain was making an already unstable and highly-angled contour around the mountain, incredible loose. Every other step I took, the ground would give way and I'd slide a few feet down the debris-covered hill side. It was arduous hiking, and incredibly slow going. After what seemed like an hour in the pouring rain to go less than 2 miles, I finally made it around in view of the Honda. The rain let up by this point, but of course the primitive forest road that I had ridden up earlier in the day, was now a flowing torrent of water and mud. <br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgMrklqc1x3YzqehNM8ZbzOSjlFjxLzbQ_XhY_eIGhIj9Iy6ArdVkhaJakmx9GKbxKpuC2K0WF_gKRMXonO_IhE4MlnXcUU8mufZwy4QIdm44EinTcTtmEYakrjRkFcQhyEEvboZYlnOU6s1iRswbkm2I3jrDWMX_pDF0kh7StnGPriPkcaK25YQcxP_w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1526" data-original-width="2358" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgMrklqc1x3YzqehNM8ZbzOSjlFjxLzbQ_XhY_eIGhIj9Iy6ArdVkhaJakmx9GKbxKpuC2K0WF_gKRMXonO_IhE4MlnXcUU8mufZwy4QIdm44EinTcTtmEYakrjRkFcQhyEEvboZYlnOU6s1iRswbkm2I3jrDWMX_pDF0kh7StnGPriPkcaK25YQcxP_w=w400-h259" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My approximate return route (blue). My watch wasn't recording anymore.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I got back to the Honda, it was of course soaking wet. I got it fired up quickly and it was another 40 minutes of very-slow and tedious navigation down an incredibly loose and water-logged road. There was even snow in a few places! When I finally did make it back to the paved roads, I was happy to have survived without any major incidents, lightning strikes, or bike drops, but still had to ride about 25 miles back in the rain, while soaking wet. Well...I shivered a lot, but did finally make it back home about an hour later...where I promptly jumped in a hot shower to warm up. The Honda got incredibly caked in mud, and I got another experience like no other. Truly, it was a ridiculous day. Just how I like it ;-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I captured a lot of footage of the day and am including a very-low-resolution video below for more of an intimate and in-depth picture of just what I experienced that day. Enjoy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='427' height='298' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwVE5MbEQeGJ8wzLnYj7Hk-amYNy317c9IFS-B0cP5g97ruGbgQFZuKg8QdZbBao47owulmxHwGikWL3MTwuA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-73438234478424740072022-06-15T19:28:00.011-04:002022-06-18T12:27:09.774-04:00My Experience with Solar Panels<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9kPQtYKyBcnsqGJWoudWy4x2l14rgh3mHjhsCEr8JSggNZhQQb4T1QiGE9NWkTuz8heAbZXZg6oh7he_HasLnOndKvtVZMgBCssFXKsbb5BKCnZ3N8z47_M_ZSGBb4jNxe0z2FWhU0DgvcAcp21RD_DWJaBmaP3vS4ye1tiLgfIFxSo-ARnrh5It9rA/s1024/7B4771EA-7D61-4B88-B21D-FE099AB7655B_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9kPQtYKyBcnsqGJWoudWy4x2l14rgh3mHjhsCEr8JSggNZhQQb4T1QiGE9NWkTuz8heAbZXZg6oh7he_HasLnOndKvtVZMgBCssFXKsbb5BKCnZ3N8z47_M_ZSGBb4jNxe0z2FWhU0DgvcAcp21RD_DWJaBmaP3vS4ye1tiLgfIFxSo-ARnrh5It9rA/w480-h640/7B4771EA-7D61-4B88-B21D-FE099AB7655B_1_105_c.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our 13-Panel Solar Array</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last year, I went through the process of having Solar Panels installed on my house in Flagstaff. Now granted, Flagstaff does get over 300 days of sunshine per year, but the questions I most often get when others learn of my rooftop solar are: <b>1) How much did it cost? 2) Has it been worth it? 3) Do you get paid for power you don't use? 4) Did you get battery storage?</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There was quite a bit to learn, and a fair amount of nuance involved with investing in solar, so I thought I would run through my experience here so that you all can see just how valuable it has ultimately been for us, and some of the things that I learned along the way.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">First off, let me get to the those big questions. How much did our rooftop solar setup cost? Well, the answer to that question is not as simple as you might think. First, cost typically depends on whether or not you pay outright, or you finance. Outright payment typically comes with a price reduction/discount. With that said, a good rule-of-thumb for cost is typically <i>about</i> $1000 per panel (but that is definitely dropping fast). We designed our array based on our typical monthly usage...and opted for a 13-panel array. This is somewhat on the smaller side, but our typically monthly usage is only about 300-400 kWh (for our 1600 sq. ft. home). For a larger household, our array probably wouldn't be sufficient. We wanted to go with a setup that would essentially generate at least 200% of our daily average usage (meaning we'd generate at least a 100% surplus). This was not only so we could "make some money selling back to the grid", but would also future proof us a little for the day when we finally buy that EV car. There are also several appliances in our house that would be nice to ultimately replace with electric. With that all said, our quoted up front and out-the-door cost was $14,147 ($17,996 if we financed). But...this is where it gets interesting. There is a 26% federal tax credit you can claim on your taxes for new solar. This meant the following April, we would be able to claim $3743 dollars as credit on our taxes, effectively giving us a $3743 refund. On top of that, Arizona adds another $1000 State Credit. So, while we did have to pay the full amount up front, just 9 months later we got almost $5000 back...resulting in a NET cost for our solar installation of under $10,000. Not bad for a full rooftop solar setup. Now, I realize that not everyone has $14,000 dollars to plunk down on a solar array, and frankly neither did we. BUT, we were clever in how we made it work. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Rather than finance the panels and pay a higher price overall, we saved up and were able to put down about $9000. Then, I took out a 12-month interest free Discover Card and paid the remaining $5000 on that card (and getting $100 in rewards points). I then put that card away and never used it again. Nine months later when we got our tax refund, I paid off the full balance and haven't used the card since. This allowed us to pay the reduced price, and not have to finance or take out a small loan from the bank or credit union.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u>So how much did our solar setup cost? Well...after it was all said it done, about $9500.</u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's important to know, that the federal and state credits are going away fast, so I highly recommend if you're interested in solar, get it installed no later than next year. By 2024, the credit will effectively be gone.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8__cqPQMqAPsIGFCtuFvlHro2gAWf59_ZUK53wRq5zkjy0kSzjTlSyAkKl8Fmi-jZPaKjtSwxREOW8qjQpQXoFGHLLZj-vLGG1jHCD7M1sEvNPMek4dF2tySIoXYXUyfpe_mizCFZDEdDVzqxbR7YMwNGoKezo49FZM3n1Wor5Zo7e4m5ds6-G3Eiw/s1358/Screen%20Shot%202022-06-15%20at%203.28.50%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="454" data-original-width="1358" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8__cqPQMqAPsIGFCtuFvlHro2gAWf59_ZUK53wRq5zkjy0kSzjTlSyAkKl8Fmi-jZPaKjtSwxREOW8qjQpQXoFGHLLZj-vLGG1jHCD7M1sEvNPMek4dF2tySIoXYXUyfpe_mizCFZDEdDVzqxbR7YMwNGoKezo49FZM3n1Wor5Zo7e4m5ds6-G3Eiw/w400-h134/Screen%20Shot%202022-06-15%20at%203.28.50%20PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>So...has it been worth it?</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I guess the short answer to that question is....<b><u>Maybe not quite yet, but it definitely will be.</u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On a full sun day, we are generating about 27-28 kWh of power. We typically only use about 10 kWh per day. In other words, we're generating over 2x our daily use on a good day. So you might be thinking, "Awesome, that means you make money on the 18 kWh you sell back to the grid!". Sort of.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yes it's true that we sell back all unused power we generate to the grid. BUT, we live in an area with an effective vertical utility monopoly. Flagstaff is serviced by a company called APS, and they have full reign over our area. In order to use solar, you must sign contracts with APS and agree to their terms. To put it bluntly, APS is trying to make money, and my rooftop solar basically loses them money. So...how do they rectify this? Well, they eliminate what's called "Net-Metering" and instead implement time-of-use plans with reduced buy-back rates. Let me spell this out for you:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Several years ago, rooftop solar operated on a simple principle called "net metering". This meant that monthly power usage was essentially a simple net calculation. How much produced - how much used. If that number was positive, APS credited your account at the going kWh rate (usually between 11 and 13 cents). If that number was negative, you paid for the net amount used. This model was not ideal for APS however, and the Arizona Corporation Commission changed the rules and allowed APS to instead implement what are called, "time of use plans". These plans not only charge consumers a higher rate for used power between 3 pm and 8 pm, BUT they can buy back any over-generated power at a lower rate than we they sell it. So even if our rooftop solar generates 200% of our monthly use, we won't earn 100% credit on our account. To be fair, time-of-use plans do also help to eliminate the problem introduced with large solar generation: "The Duck Curve" (Google it), but it still means you've got to be mindful of how and when you use power. It get's incredibly complicated, but the short story is that we've become really good about not running any energy intensive appliances between 3 and 8 pm. When it is all said and done, during a typical month (excluding winter), we can "Earn" somewhere between $1 and $1.50 per day. This doesn't sound like a lot, but this is on top of all the power we use. So not only are we breaking even on all our usage, BUT, we are earning about a dollar a day. Now in the winter, when the sun is lower, and our roof is covered in occasional snow, we sometimes don't even break even. Currently, our electric "Bill" is -67 dollars (meaning we have a $67 credit). For this month, we are on day 12 of the billing cycle and are earning $1.09 per day on average. When winter comes, we'll probably start chewing in to that credit and if we have any credit left over come Jan 1, APS sends us a check and we start they cycle over again.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWD1jIBkgOSiej55zH1PA5MVZA9qn4EOx0TyH9zaSlYhFQXjSXU7gqHbmzcfI2MRvdUN-9tMFbs49rT1dh2AW9QkhFvFmCGDM3kO4hxcr0m71ny4jPp9swqFf0N2ue-QQlPiQwwvXpxMIRdAKe_EpzdVea4YrOAawl6wDO43oTRitne4V2bDM1Gu58VQ/s1182/DD1819D4-DB19-4BCD-91BF-79D1CA30716D_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1182" data-original-width="665" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWD1jIBkgOSiej55zH1PA5MVZA9qn4EOx0TyH9zaSlYhFQXjSXU7gqHbmzcfI2MRvdUN-9tMFbs49rT1dh2AW9QkhFvFmCGDM3kO4hxcr0m71ny4jPp9swqFf0N2ue-QQlPiQwwvXpxMIRdAKe_EpzdVea4YrOAawl6wDO43oTRitne4V2bDM1Gu58VQ/w360-h640/DD1819D4-DB19-4BCD-91BF-79D1CA30716D_1_105_c.jpeg" width="360" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My last electric "Bill"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So let's do some back-of-the-envelope math. Let's say that when we average our production over an entire year, we'll assume the worst case scenario that we are only breaking even. Before solar, our electric bill was about $80 per month when averaged over the entire year (some months it was $40, other months $120). This means we were spending <i>ABOUT</i> $1000 year on electric for our home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We paid <i>ABOUT </i>$9000 for our panels, so this would mean in 9 years they pay for themselves. This is an incredibly conservative estimate, and I would guess our buy-back break-even period is probably closer to 6 or 7 years. So, as long as we stay in our house for at least 6 years, the panels will very likely have been "Worth It". Of course this doesn't factor in the net value of our home as well. The panels most certainly increased the equity/value of our home by at least the $9000 that the panels cost, meaning if we were to sell, we'd likely not lose money in the long run. And lastly, as to whether they've been "worth it"....well we certainly think that they have been even if just for the fact that we're doing our part to reduce our fossil-fuel based energy consumption. Next up....an EV car!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u>So have our solar panels been worth it and do we get paid for the power we generate and don't use? YES! and YES! We'll have a buy-back period of probably about 6 years, and our home equity has increased, our fossil-fuel energy consumption has decreased, and we are providing the grid with our surplus renewable energy.</u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And lastly...<b>did we get battery storage?</b> This is an easy one. <b>NO we did not not get battery storage</b>. I would absolutely love to have a battery storage unit installed on our house to truly tap into as much of the power we generate as possible. The battery setup compatible with our unit (Enphase), would provide enough storage power to essentially keep our house fully running overnight (except for our electric dryer). In the end, it's always better to use as much of the power we generate as possible as it costs more to buy power from APS, then we earn selling power back. So why didn't we get battery storage? Well, mostly because the technology is not-quite-there yet...and because what is there, is REALLY expensive. I got a quote on a basic battery storage unit for our house, and it was almost $20k. This is twice what we paid just for the panels and we couldn't justify the expense. I imagine the technology and costs will come down ridiculously fast over the next 5-10 years, and we are planning to simply wait a few years and re-assess.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>SOME TIPS:</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here are some things I'd tell you based on what I learned along the way. First, try to find a local company to work with. We had a lot of people from Phoenix (or national companies) try to sell us panels, but we ultimately went with a local company that works and services Flagstaff. This also allowed us to use a referral from a neighbor that gave us another $500 off our price (and gave them a $500 bonus!). We also felt better about supporting local business.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Do your research on what technology the company uses. Many solar panels are cheaply made overseas and are not reliable, or have faulty inverters. Make sure to go with a company that has good reviews, and has reliable equipment. I'm not saying you should only buy American panels (ours were made in Germany), just do your due diligence here.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Think about the condition of your roof. If you need a new roof, it might be wise to do that before installing panels. If not, it means having to remove them a few years down the line when re-roofing your house. Our roof was redone just a few years ago, so that variable was not in our equation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Plan for the entire process to take at least 3 months (probably more like 4-5). Once we signed papers with our company, it took about two weeks for the initial roof inspections, and then another two months for the approval from APS, the City, and our HOA. After that, the installers actually put everything up in just two days. It took another couple of weeks for APS to install their meters and get us tapped into the primary grid. After that, our installers came over as we turned things on, and set up our unit to our wifi so we can monitor everything from our phones. Watching the app becomes a fun daily game to see how much you are producing vs. consuming. We signed papers in late-April, and "flipped the switch"in late-July.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">...and that's about it. The entire process, while lengthy, is actually quite painless. It's important to note that you also don't necessarily have to buy your panels. You can also lease them and simply allow a company to "use your roof". You won't earn as much this way, and you don't ever own the panels, but it also means you are not responsible for them. Also, if you do buy, and finance...most solar companies have ridiculously low interest rates, and they will tailor your monthly bills, to be roughly equivalent to what your electric bill is. So to you, you aren't really seeing any difference in your monthly bills.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope this was useful/helpful to you and I'm happy to answer any questions in the comments.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1cTDu_GVqDM8NHjGhQNKQO5teOE-qAajQSDWyEHUg74e3pABbKosLGcMW8GzJof-xspiQ_6RZb43hCivD4mRTRAe42B9yzrtFPTngkL1MbRWYsekMVWxIWYNUNd9sw_pd_mcM6Z-1bXD7yB6bCg4XbM82BKQSrN_NhIZyZGi5d2XPd6b9rb5aZLpRiQ/s1182/16825A1A-0FA2-40EF-89AF-A813DEC795AA_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1182" data-original-width="665" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1cTDu_GVqDM8NHjGhQNKQO5teOE-qAajQSDWyEHUg74e3pABbKosLGcMW8GzJof-xspiQ_6RZb43hCivD4mRTRAe42B9yzrtFPTngkL1MbRWYsekMVWxIWYNUNd9sw_pd_mcM6Z-1bXD7yB6bCg4XbM82BKQSrN_NhIZyZGi5d2XPd6b9rb5aZLpRiQ/w360-h640/16825A1A-0FA2-40EF-89AF-A813DEC795AA_1_105_c.jpeg" width="360" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Power generation and consumption for June 14th.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(We consumed 7.1 kWh, and produced 27.7 kWh, exporting 20.6 kWh)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Also, I highly recommend this video talking about why we should cut ties with gas appliances...and why "Cooking with Gas" being "Better", is a common misconception.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="410" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hX2aZUav-54" width="493" youtube-src-id="hX2aZUav-54"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-9168870438222197362022-05-24T18:28:00.001-04:002022-06-17T12:56:35.332-04:00The Necessity of Science Communication (& an Experiment in Machine Learning)<div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Cartoon by Tom Dunne" class="myImg" height="293" src="https://www.americanscientist.org/sites/americanscientist.org/files/20152913382610961-2015_02_09MacroBurke450.jpg" width="400" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Cartoon by Tom Dunne)</div><div><br /></div>As a scientist working in the broad field of the "Geosciences", I've always been fascinated and intrigued by the "Social Sciences". As I worked my way through graduate school, and all of the various milestones along the way (i.e. Candidacy, Comprehensive Exams, and Defenses, etc.), I was constantly reminded of the "Scientific Process": You must pose a question and/or hypothesis, and then test that hypothesis in order to make predictions. To my trained brain, questions in the natural sciences or engineering world lead to explanations of how and why the world exists as it does, and then ideally allows us to make empirical predictions. With the social sciences though, despite the ability to pose and test hypotheses, when you add in the human factor of free-will, I have always wondered just how much "prediction" is truly possible. I suppose it is simply a lack of understanding on my part, and I fully admit my own ignorance with the social sciences, but it is just so hard for my process- and math-oriented mind to wrap my head around the scientific approaches to various social sciences. <div><br /></div><div>I recently participated as a member of a search committee, with a focus on hiring a new Social Scientist. As this was my first search committee, I made sure to take an incredible volume of notes, as I knew that my position and training as a "Natural Scientist" undoubtedly gives me certain biases (even if unconscious). I tried to copy responses verbatim as best I could. I knew that in many ways, I would defer to the expertise of the other Social Scientists on the committee, but for the sake of scientific and interdisciplinary diversity, I was happy to serve on this committee, especially given the desire to hire colleagues eager to work across disciplines. During many of these interviews, as other members of the committee nodded along to the respective interviewee's responses, seemingly following along with full comprehension, I found that I was constantly asking myself questions like, <div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">"So what does that actually mean?"</div><div style="text-align: left;">"What does that actually look like in practice"</div><div style="text-align: left;">"What is the research trying to solve or predict?"</div><div style="text-align: left;">"What are you actually trying to say here?"</div><div><br /></div><div>...And to be honest. I felt terrible about it. Clearly, I just didn't understand. I'd often look down at my written notes, sometimes comprised of paragraphs of text, and scratching my head thinking....."That's a lot of words....but I don't really understand what is being said". Clearly, the other search committee members are following along acutely (so I am in the minority), but it really made me realize again, just how important the concepts of Science Communication are. Social Scientists (and Anthropologists for that matter) undoubtedly carry out important and relevant research. They look at questions of human behavior and interactions, and the interplay across many disciplines (including the "natural" or "environmental" sciences). To someone not intimately familiar with that type of research, it can seem very nebulous though. And this of course works the other way as well. I imagine if a social scientist were to attend one of my talks or poster presentations on glaciological processes in West Antarctica, they'd be asking just as many questions. The truth is, with all of the training that goes in to advanced graduate degrees, it can be easy to form a strong foundation and understanding for our respective methods, structures, and processes. And despite efforts to branch out and be more interdisciplinary, it can be really hard to think outside of our proverbial boxes.<div><br /></div></div><div>This entire process has really reignited a spark within me to focus more on interdisciplinary science communication. I need to work with others across fields to not only find ways to better communicate the science that I prioritize, but to better understand just how other fields are going after the questions that scientists like me are unable, and unqualified to answer. It also makes me realize that I need to continue to strive to be more open minded, and more receptive to science concepts outside my scientific literacy and familiarity.</div><div><br /></div><div>As a fun way to end this post, I thought I'd share results from a silly experiment. One of the questions that our search committee asked interviewees, was essentially "What makes you a good fit for this position?". I compiled all of my written notes in an effort to get a sense of the "word clouds" and specific mention counts of certain concepts or words (and again, my notes were essentially verbatim responses from candidates). One approach I took, was to upload my notes into a machine learning algorithm to see what it would spit out. What I didn't realize though, is this particular engine actually creates new text based on the inputs you provide. It essentially creates its own version of your text as though it is an actual person talking to you (almost as if it were a crude Turing Test). Based on the results, it illustrates that there is nuance to the responses that I clearly wasn't getting. My notes were obviously packed with "buzz" words and phrases. This also explains why I was asking myself questions like, "What are you actually trying to say here?", <b>as the AI text results contains over 150 words, but yet doesn't really say anything truly substantial or substantive</b>. It's essentially just empty words. Again, this speaks volumes to my true lack of understanding of the actual science. Still, I thought the results were somewhat amusing....</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i>So...what makes you a good fit for this position?.....</i></b></div><div><br /></div><div><i>"I like to think that I work at the nexus of multiple disciplines, but also across boundaries. I have a passion for interdisciplinary work that bridges gaps and deconstructs silos. I also leverage my strengths, understanding what I am, and what I am not. When working through my research or designing a project, I employ methodologies centered on co-production of knowledge, and </i><i>strive to augment community assets and maximize the potential of human and social capital.</i><i> I focus on community engagement, evaluate multi-dimensional resilience, and prioritize just transitions. It is important to build a scaffolding when working across cultural boundaries and marginalized communities. My research methodology involves merging qualitative and quantitative approaches, and using broad frameworks, while also incorporating focus groups; I really like to understand where breakdowns occur. It is also critical to identify key stakeholders, and establish strong foundations. It is about working across research paradigms, and more simply, facilitating conversations."</i></div></div></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>....Wait...what??</div><div><i><br /></i></div>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-87948470627758657222022-01-04T15:40:00.000-05:002022-01-04T15:40:14.438-05:002021 in Review: A Year of Reserved Endeavors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_EhO87-3mwVSE7R8GS3pRZDNUN7ZB2PRKEhvNeY9bWFjFyz60Ot2mCRzboGyzDcxPHkareA3SIfUF9TrOCe9KsarrdrLFkvjaZSFkcPhmmismVtpJ07q0vHUaCqQ2FOtqWv_mhjxR-fla/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_EhO87-3mwVSE7R8GS3pRZDNUN7ZB2PRKEhvNeY9bWFjFyz60Ot2mCRzboGyzDcxPHkareA3SIfUF9TrOCe9KsarrdrLFkvjaZSFkcPhmmismVtpJ07q0vHUaCqQ2FOtqWv_mhjxR-fla/w400-h266/i-Gcfppzk-X5.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Having fun at the Bighorn 100</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Well here we are again...at another year's end. I sit here nestled in the corner of the coffee shop, living in this uncertain "new-normal", occasionally pulling my face mask down to sip my coffee.....and trying to come up with some kind of clever title that best encapsulates this year. What I realize though, is that there really isn't any. Every time time I think about the various experiences that have made up the year for me, one word always seemed to come to mind: "reserved". I think about trips I've taken, hikes I've been on, runs I've done, or my various motorcycle adventures...and in each case while there was excitement and thrill, there was also a a constant and nagging feeling of caution. This global pandemic we've all navigated our way through over the past two years has left us all with a prolonged sense of fatigue. While I feel like a fair majority of us all want to do the right things and remain vigilant, I think we are all simply tired in our own ways, of this new reality. Tired of zoom, tired of extra steps required for previously inconsequential tasks, and tired of the constant and heightened vigilance. It's kind of like when you go on a long road trip...and spend 8 hours behind the wheel. On paper, it shouldn't be exhausting....as you're just sitting there occasionally turning a steering wheel. BUT, as we all know, it is exhausting due to constant mental commitment and vigilance required.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I think more than anything what has surprised me, and frankly saddened me, is just how many people I've witnessed that simply don't care about doing all they can to help and protect others. What has emerged from this pandemic is an overwhelming abundance of selfish and entitled attitudes that is really just...well....ugly. So many of us proclaim to hold strong or commendable morals, or to be followers of various faiths....faiths that almost universally teach mandates to be kind to all, and always help others. Yet, over the past year, there's been so much of "me, me, me" and to heck with my neighbor or fellow. I've seen people get into full on fist-fights with airline flight attendants because rather than do something small to try to help others, they contend that wearing a small piece of fabric over their face somehow is an affront to their "personal freedoms". I think of people like that flight attendant who is just trying to get by and provide for their family in these weird and difficult times, and it's no wonder so many people in service jobs are quitting in record numbers.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Since when did vaccines become government conspiracies? They are probably the most effective medical advancement every developed and have likely saved billions of lives. I think back to my post about <a href="https://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2015/08/denialism-skepticism-and-need-to-evolve.html">climate denialism</a> when I wrote:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><i>This is when I realized this strange and unnatural propensity to gravitate towards conspiracies and pseudoscience. It's simply more tantalizing and exciting. I think there's something gratifying about getting people to believe you as well...almost as if you've "recruited for the cause". Additionally, people, by nature, are very stubborn and defensive. When someone shows you empirical evidence that a long held belief about something is potentially wrong, rather than get excited about something new and possibly wonderful...people tend to deny it, or defend their own belief. No one likes to find out that they've been wrong about something.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>As far as latching on to conspiracies....well this has been going on for centuries. In the last 50 years, and particularly with the recent development of the fast global connectivity of the internet, conspiracies establish themselves quickly and get deeply rooted. Regardless of the obvious counter-evidence presented, these conspiracies hold on tightly and people stay dug in, like a tick, believing them....rather than to just laugh about it, admit their gullibility, open their beliefs to something new, and move on. I think back to the the countless hours of network news coverage of the most ridiculous things I could imagine. The president of the United States having to present his birth certificate to prove his citizenship. People convinced that somehow 9/11 was an "Inside Job", despite members of terror groups openly boasting about it. So why do we want so much to believe these things? Why would anyone want to believe that 9/11 was a coverup of some sorts? I just don't understand. What feeds into this even more is that some real "conspiracies" do actually exist (e.g. Watergate), and only further perpetuate the idea that "anything is possible" and "see!...the government has secret agendas!"</i></div><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">At any rate, I don't want to dwell on this, and instead will take a walk down my 2021 memory lane. Despite the heightened cautions, and the reserved nature of most of my outings, I did still manage to have a really wonderful and satisfying year. So....let's take a look back.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u>YEAR IN REVIEW:</u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NcT2N9PdCpRSJacX7EbixxYa-yTEr3X6EZ46z3tZoLF2ZP1sxaEYLTzCeGyHvu_S1Mw1AHkzOozjNnqRT8yE5EnffUWeR94KaEOiBnAHeR1bUtrEZwf-dYjw4OZqNagQ5UibouJyedJG/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1539" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NcT2N9PdCpRSJacX7EbixxYa-yTEr3X6EZ46z3tZoLF2ZP1sxaEYLTzCeGyHvu_S1Mw1AHkzOozjNnqRT8yE5EnffUWeR94KaEOiBnAHeR1bUtrEZwf-dYjw4OZqNagQ5UibouJyedJG/w300-h400/IMG_0351.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Starting the Resolution Challenge (still fresh)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The year started like every other year has started for the past 8 years....with my annual running of the 3hr CJ's resolution challenge. This year I chose to run a 1.1-mile loop around my neighborhood. I knew I wasn't in great shape so was just hoping to get close to 20 miles. As usual, I cut it incredibly close on the penultimate lap, crossing the start lap for my final lap just seconds before the 3-hour mark. As per the rules, I am allowed to start a new lap as long as the clock reads under 3 total hours. I started the last loop in before the cut-off, and ultimately walked the last loop in as a victory lap. In total I did just eke out 20 miles with a total of 20.1 (18 total laps).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/4563070092">2021 CJ's Challenge</a></div><div><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Not long after running loops on a sunny January weekend, we got pummeled in Flagstaff by over 26 inches of snow. As fun as it was to see this much snow, it also meant that most of my preferred outdoor activities were officially over for the season (principally long bike rides, trail running, and motorcycle jaunts). I had a lot of fun digging snow trenches in the backyard for the dog to navigate, and performing various measurements on the fresh snow. Once a snow/ice scientist, always a snow/ice scientist....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5NcT2N9PdCpRSJacX7EbixxYa-yTEr3X6EZ46z3tZoLF2ZP1sxaEYLTzCeGyHvu_S1Mw1AHkzOozjNnqRT8yE5EnffUWeR94KaEOiBnAHeR1bUtrEZwf-dYjw4OZqNagQ5UibouJyedJG/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAeDwawhCYVvbQ917sloUyesm6kKcHOVBsXssSFyZLJNVF2V5k2xKiqhscP3RjZdn2veBaTRvZrhOuKHAbPQd-YbjczUlxnxBi-RhOhGwJRUULHPAv6Q02uJlqr-wOmYSQ4maGNGHcCQ9F/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAeDwawhCYVvbQ917sloUyesm6kKcHOVBsXssSFyZLJNVF2V5k2xKiqhscP3RjZdn2veBaTRvZrhOuKHAbPQd-YbjczUlxnxBi-RhOhGwJRUULHPAv6Q02uJlqr-wOmYSQ4maGNGHcCQ9F/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4e4rHe1Lq5QW-XDSrkrEJwbelqDfglF89Dqw5x43F3QrzNraryuwvJPG9OgyU3AYAmdFo1J74fEpk5wlGi6v9T2MvhRYGlbu6OT8g67zkbHdwaiSDAYpBLW6DlWo3EMJpXDiHheyz7Ep/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="761" data-original-width="708" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4e4rHe1Lq5QW-XDSrkrEJwbelqDfglF89Dqw5x43F3QrzNraryuwvJPG9OgyU3AYAmdFo1J74fEpk5wlGi6v9T2MvhRYGlbu6OT8g67zkbHdwaiSDAYpBLW6DlWo3EMJpXDiHheyz7Ep/w372-h400/IMG_0426.jpeg" width="372" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Measuring the fresh snow after the big storm</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirPDtQOTncWFBwhomgQDKDuXw_n4-pnzLaBDrbQShteKGLucUZhJ5sBJjVvr19mv9y_HHI27yrjCy2YelATQrYnEnRFf7iz03QkLwSWei7LIbWhaVr4oGjbKCQdPsqtFntUsEJ4R94d1tx/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirPDtQOTncWFBwhomgQDKDuXw_n4-pnzLaBDrbQShteKGLucUZhJ5sBJjVvr19mv9y_HHI27yrjCy2YelATQrYnEnRFf7iz03QkLwSWei7LIbWhaVr4oGjbKCQdPsqtFntUsEJ4R94d1tx/w400-h300/IMG_0434.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I paid for this picture with my back....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At the end of January, I received news that as an educator within the Arizona Board of Regents "domain", I was considered Tier 1B for the new SARS-Cov-2 Vaccine. While part of me was ecstatic to be eligible, I also felt guilty knowing there were likely thousands at greater risk, that should be ahead of me in line. I asked about this, and was told to get the vaccine so that I would be in compliance with University Policy. I posted the picture below on my social media accounts with the following caption: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>"Thank you to all of the medical researchers, scientists, trial phase volunteers, and everyone else that made this picture possible. It speaks to the incredible ingenuity of our researchers and scientists that this picture could even happen only 1 year after really just recognizing SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19. I had to drive through a literal blizzard this morning to get to the vaccine site...but would have truthfully snow-shoed there if I had to."</i></div><br style="text-align: left;" /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVA-wK_BEsdo2FkayjSHwPPuv6XRGvyhDNd6MzvsppG87rwH6TdeGF-qa1DNJ68yOQVZJUlffGImPyXti1W1e1Tyc1GUUWV3ktqdwQgqsW5tACKIRf6dhGozkw6-gycrlJBGvqRqGOchHC/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVA-wK_BEsdo2FkayjSHwPPuv6XRGvyhDNd6MzvsppG87rwH6TdeGF-qa1DNJ68yOQVZJUlffGImPyXti1W1e1Tyc1GUUWV3ktqdwQgqsW5tACKIRf6dhGozkw6-gycrlJBGvqRqGOchHC/w400-h301/IMG_0420.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Vaccinated!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At some point in late-January, I set out on a quest to "Run Every Street" within the city limits of Flagstaff. I figured it would be a good way to try to knock out some fun winter miles. Progress went well for several weeks, but eventually my interest in the project began to fade as the weather got nicer and I started getting out more on trails. I did manage to knock out several hundred miles in total before suspending the project. I do plan to still complete it at some point down the line. Despite being on roads, I did still experience some beautiful sunsets and views that I hadn't expected. In many ways doing a project like this did allow me to see parts of my city that I otherwise would have likely never seen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxIkSbpx6nGg3DqLgPM-uBZU-Yv4f0aOdQdC6YQMyP1VHJ5YAPd0FnpOSJ2eyCFaKLzZbZ9msFEYllQbvdQOV2HTwKQCFl229q_MehMrb5fv87FYRsixTM0Xpcv3eutUrmX2RTVSAALIM0XrGFb5lo40v0aClcV7HmWOyzhJD-AO9H-jmBT_oFge5sIA=s2728" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1842" data-original-width="2728" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxIkSbpx6nGg3DqLgPM-uBZU-Yv4f0aOdQdC6YQMyP1VHJ5YAPd0FnpOSJ2eyCFaKLzZbZ9msFEYllQbvdQOV2HTwKQCFl229q_MehMrb5fv87FYRsixTM0Xpcv3eutUrmX2RTVSAALIM0XrGFb5lo40v0aClcV7HmWOyzhJD-AO9H-jmBT_oFge5sIA=w400-h270" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">"Run Every Street" progress map</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSoQ2IJ7V69Wc6ToHfPlVA8Bwo1EdJH37BM-vQ2TdYgPZTh5FWEEbmcK5kngfsBXI7VIBKWfw3XvBcOoO3Rr_11oAQv1ihYNTz5mHOLDGQRvFD5NnV5yfEnsy40Ys6q95oTPSlAKryDTa/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSoQ2IJ7V69Wc6ToHfPlVA8Bwo1EdJH37BM-vQ2TdYgPZTh5FWEEbmcK5kngfsBXI7VIBKWfw3XvBcOoO3Rr_11oAQv1ihYNTz5mHOLDGQRvFD5NnV5yfEnsy40Ys6q95oTPSlAKryDTa/w400-h300/IMG_0470.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">An evening sunset while "running every street"</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqoCdsS54LfbwAScCqd7XYDHyB8Ufuq3lBVukLZubFA6lsAKaeg2-ZanRwlvCKXZ7edxnewGljxuCL85FW9GRJ2h_mgP_ALnuVZ6rwTWJR86CppgzS2Fonh3EVrJIqmRmhOb4GsKn0kRo/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqoCdsS54LfbwAScCqd7XYDHyB8Ufuq3lBVukLZubFA6lsAKaeg2-ZanRwlvCKXZ7edxnewGljxuCL85FW9GRJ2h_mgP_ALnuVZ6rwTWJR86CppgzS2Fonh3EVrJIqmRmhOb4GsKn0kRo/w300-h400/IMG_0473.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of the more primitive "Roads" that I had to run</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In February I came to the decision that I finally needed a new road bike. For years I had been riding an older commuter bike that I picked up from a friend...but it never quite fit me right. Initially, I was trying to get my hands on a bike called the Space Horse from a company called All City, however this bike was impossible to find. After some more searching, I stumbled across the Specialized Diverge and found one in my size down in the Phoenix Area. I put a deposit on it immediately and picked it up a few days later. A few short weeks, I customarily earned this new bike by completing the requisite century ride by cycling 50 miles out and back through the hills of Flagstaff.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Gtl51Wp-4Bg0pBVzj9ABUPOz4oK9PcdpgNzNXwrHAGUwCtIQeSGbjXtz9jlrns8rObg9IeYJ75JGdm51Q9fJtKzy4Dzi_-VT4BA9s7qhKu97EYMdmoNfEb7P_I3JeC9hJAd-89uiUn5m/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Gtl51Wp-4Bg0pBVzj9ABUPOz4oK9PcdpgNzNXwrHAGUwCtIQeSGbjXtz9jlrns8rObg9IeYJ75JGdm51Q9fJtKzy4Dzi_-VT4BA9s7qhKu97EYMdmoNfEb7P_I3JeC9hJAd-89uiUn5m/w400-h300/IMG_0450.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The new wheels!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiW2EIQodxcu0CtkiIRkldaUGwBjGSd6pjnbA_APPDNhLRCYioZdFZALUSeErLave4_aSBvzviGTVeCdnbRpc2nBhJerlsjwFNwStOFgAmP8ZzbITuIlJLBl1ztQF-FBFOWTj7V74sWuW5gYMGBS3um8FMwOruDbEwdk6c8OsoAhnlMCPtvhI760myluA=s1934" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1934" data-original-width="1784" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiW2EIQodxcu0CtkiIRkldaUGwBjGSd6pjnbA_APPDNhLRCYioZdFZALUSeErLave4_aSBvzviGTVeCdnbRpc2nBhJerlsjwFNwStOFgAmP8ZzbITuIlJLBl1ztQF-FBFOWTj7V74sWuW5gYMGBS3um8FMwOruDbEwdk6c8OsoAhnlMCPtvhI760myluA=w369-h400" width="369" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My first century ride on the new bike</div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVdquIK0_CtE-FbTLayJqkmM2iu3HMu3wOFh2mC03nnT58-S6bUV1NzcrdDrGigP-x6Jodb_gPHDakvrjSVsOeX-v1Pc5amXexrRiw7cdwDZrNWMMxPdXPtv-IVrOVvQAswbEdhBP_sUg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsVdquIK0_CtE-FbTLayJqkmM2iu3HMu3wOFh2mC03nnT58-S6bUV1NzcrdDrGigP-x6Jodb_gPHDakvrjSVsOeX-v1Pc5amXexrRiw7cdwDZrNWMMxPdXPtv-IVrOVvQAswbEdhBP_sUg/w400-h301/IMG_0551.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Mile ~75 on my century ride</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As the weather slowly got warmer, my interests turned from running/cycling, back to the motorcycle. Early on, I was having some issues getting the bike to run consistently due to a faulty fuel pump relay, which was causing it to stall a lot. Once remedied though, the bike ran smoothly for the rest of the year. All it took w as a $10 upgraded relay, and a slight adjustment to the throttle position sensor. As the snow began melting, I starting venturing out further and further on the bike to satisfy that itch. It wasn't until May though that the county finally opened the forest roads and I was truly able to "rip it up".</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEqCvfnBS7E7FcegAV9yYSY2CKHrPddj6k0JH4CYrlx9pz4YnNbz9Sq-JXCHIM1depoSFA1dfwXTi45L4eyUE-eDVQDRacm8Bd2VPEmO3LhVPyAsBVnzacd02sNhVKJ0oUiuf9-VlWNO-0/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEqCvfnBS7E7FcegAV9yYSY2CKHrPddj6k0JH4CYrlx9pz4YnNbz9Sq-JXCHIM1depoSFA1dfwXTi45L4eyUE-eDVQDRacm8Bd2VPEmO3LhVPyAsBVnzacd02sNhVKJ0oUiuf9-VlWNO-0/w400-h300/IMG_0530.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Early Spring ride (note the snow in the background)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyKMozO0fwPQrZnqj35lY6BWeAZHHWeigz-9tmq76fDR2ZJCFGLrSR0rkWkEgbirjKG-9cDpVIAQp-9PWD2TA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ripping it up on some newly opened forest roads</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When the end of the semester rolled around, I found myself itching to get back into the "Big Ditch" again. I made another pilgrimage up to the South Rim and completed my 2nd R2R2R. Little did I know that I'd be back once again a few months later for a 3rd go. As with my first attempt, I did the standard Kaibab Trail Out and Back (and avoiding the Bright Angel Trail). For this attempt, I was notably slower and more out of shape. The return climb up the South Kaibab that evening was brutal.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggIAADHc1DXUUfHWRxsA6C29-Raxoj3AyiL7DbJffEl2j4nz6bsOt4TPLW5hGtCrfMRr4YzjWrGkM6PfNUXhJFPUIxrVdkL8gmnsHHgZmLVxUNHRLA8o90bQIIp1CbcpRY5ipQo8PqIk_7/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggIAADHc1DXUUfHWRxsA6C29-Raxoj3AyiL7DbJffEl2j4nz6bsOt4TPLW5hGtCrfMRr4YzjWrGkM6PfNUXhJFPUIxrVdkL8gmnsHHgZmLVxUNHRLA8o90bQIIp1CbcpRY5ipQo8PqIk_7/w400-h301/IMG_0703.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">4:30 am start</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDtW5Fod2h0MV5sBeHaTfamKNNIzGLIV3536yg__QC-lK50hLkXwX_T9HRChgD6esYs4dc91osRIUGy7xpFtNmuVotWlW7a02_1oWS6c6eWXmwe0wVybk9uOykPYJJnOdYAC2Qv5m7lBNQ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDtW5Fod2h0MV5sBeHaTfamKNNIzGLIV3536yg__QC-lK50hLkXwX_T9HRChgD6esYs4dc91osRIUGy7xpFtNmuVotWlW7a02_1oWS6c6eWXmwe0wVybk9uOykPYJJnOdYAC2Qv5m7lBNQ/w400-h300/IMG_0718.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Crossing the Colorado</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIlsCRn3wsAV13-1YK5WnEaXiktbEmhSJpTJXH2KCWEd2uBLdiCGQh5fUpCXACUvkxKLUQGpI044ySkpLVaWAzOg3aBSyAjKvWyhxu_ArngHDWCrasBEFJL2uAVWDTzxWSX-2gcr5xLBN4/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIlsCRn3wsAV13-1YK5WnEaXiktbEmhSJpTJXH2KCWEd2uBLdiCGQh5fUpCXACUvkxKLUQGpI044ySkpLVaWAzOg3aBSyAjKvWyhxu_ArngHDWCrasBEFJL2uAVWDTzxWSX-2gcr5xLBN4/w400-h300/IMG_0725.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Finishing up the R2R2R right at sunset.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In May, I made my way back to my old stomping grounds in Vermont and New Hampshire to run some samples on the Micro-CT analyzer. This was my first time back to my old neighborhood and research lab since leaving in June of 2019. It was nice seeing friends and colleagues and playing around my old favorite places. It was also nice just working in a lab again. I do miss the ordered predictability of running samples and compiling data.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Another bonus to this trip was that I was able to visit with my sister and Nephew who drove up from NY. We did a bunch of hiking, and of course visited the Ben and Jerry's factory. I also was able to visit with my good friend and running partner from Boston (the same friend that rescued me at the finish of my Long Trail FKT attempt). We met up in the White Mountains of NY, and hiked up Mt. Moosilauke. It was grand. Having now lived in Northern Arizona for 2 years, this trip taught me that I still have deep affection for the mountains and woods of the Northeast. I don't think I'll ever shake that.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0caDVDiHkeL0po9g2U8IphydikYVdJphiQjLTsh972kAfjjRX2Cy4bzV5hB4Omd73DSMeEQnHclam63fE1wsfjMN61ReNjUWkJi99GDwv066QoNzoFZxPE-lq_4-6EiF5EJFbUGyrqbH/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0caDVDiHkeL0po9g2U8IphydikYVdJphiQjLTsh972kAfjjRX2Cy4bzV5hB4Omd73DSMeEQnHclam63fE1wsfjMN61ReNjUWkJi99GDwv066QoNzoFZxPE-lq_4-6EiF5EJFbUGyrqbH/w400-h300/IMG_0753.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Micro-CT Analyzer</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2VyhCEGha1DTsBqH99inRSFFXmsVlC-mHzdwLrFWm-4Cly1DuQlUeiotUd_1cY3zFMwXAKXfZea0-Ph_mQxH1P7Ag883c0TB0MkVxQrEx9KGXK7SbiCvTiHqaKkhRI9PN2ttQToFKXA-u/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2VyhCEGha1DTsBqH99inRSFFXmsVlC-mHzdwLrFWm-4Cly1DuQlUeiotUd_1cY3zFMwXAKXfZea0-Ph_mQxH1P7Ag883c0TB0MkVxQrEx9KGXK7SbiCvTiHqaKkhRI9PN2ttQToFKXA-u/w400-h300/IMG_0775.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Quechee Falls just across from my old Apartment</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgprYizu07c93nsRpya-mAg4nlbPIrA_nan8UK8jtV-8V9g_atS3kyLyBHVcrDNJI-2Z6U1Vmc97VXJSmu84HN091DT-2W6RgXRMJTSUh1K6utrdcNNIrC_OyTYR72JRKDT3_3RPmFaTw8v/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgprYizu07c93nsRpya-mAg4nlbPIrA_nan8UK8jtV-8V9g_atS3kyLyBHVcrDNJI-2Z6U1Vmc97VXJSmu84HN091DT-2W6RgXRMJTSUh1K6utrdcNNIrC_OyTYR72JRKDT3_3RPmFaTw8v/w300-h400/IMG_0791.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My nephew taking after his uncle</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7-MoM4vDkYMMmeLGt_TwKid_dXgb0c2JUCLVR19pe4smaGDqGtUPUh1bKAaG7vF4EhrSyfmua37ayYlEhxJkZAusE_LnmL2MeIVMzdhKLSi_5fo8FMqzxpmrgDUqgUTNEIgJtFDPG98P/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy7-MoM4vDkYMMmeLGt_TwKid_dXgb0c2JUCLVR19pe4smaGDqGtUPUh1bKAaG7vF4EhrSyfmua37ayYlEhxJkZAusE_LnmL2MeIVMzdhKLSi_5fo8FMqzxpmrgDUqgUTNEIgJtFDPG98P/w400-h300/IMG_8422.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hanging on Moosilauke</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPg4eofZxxB-avsNJIPZZMICdF1t3tVd_Pt_VsKkGxaow4K_X5owMK0HKgJP3IQowlPPXkx3gvlRO5Rn9tkKmXSAywvoWSjoVx1CzCtUtbmfWqXq7rrHspRnIAcXlNa9HxXSl_xOWaG16d/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPg4eofZxxB-avsNJIPZZMICdF1t3tVd_Pt_VsKkGxaow4K_X5owMK0HKgJP3IQowlPPXkx3gvlRO5Rn9tkKmXSAywvoWSjoVx1CzCtUtbmfWqXq7rrHspRnIAcXlNa9HxXSl_xOWaG16d/w400-h300/IMG_8443.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Reflecting on how much I miss the Northeast woods.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I returned to Arizona, I made a rather spontaneous, yet long overdue purchase. I found a bike shop down in Phoenix that happened to have a foldable Brompton bicycle in stock, that fit the specifications that I had been looking for....for almost 10 years. On a whim, I bought it and it has brought an incredible amount of joy into my life. I've mostly been using it for commuting, but it also does well for longer rides. For the rest of May, I spent many hours playing around on the Brommie. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I did post a bit more about my Spring here: <a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2021/06/a-spring-update-and-new-adventures.html">A Spring Update</a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp3242VefwhmtpHfzCeZBJqn3Tb725DkAgt1vC6QVL3ZnSykTjxj8Nrfs8-NYotssQ-ujYVIjVnmQP0FdbXRVeoa4t2CQY2da4y1l3JQ69zrmXzbr85IN2KtZITK3PIkHwosanU3XXnmXb/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp3242VefwhmtpHfzCeZBJqn3Tb725DkAgt1vC6QVL3ZnSykTjxj8Nrfs8-NYotssQ-ujYVIjVnmQP0FdbXRVeoa4t2CQY2da4y1l3JQ69zrmXzbr85IN2KtZITK3PIkHwosanU3XXnmXb/w400-h300/IMG_0881.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The new Brompton H6R</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijSR4QV_qy2VsC5vJQ8yw5hgHGFiyFfdis6OokHjpEhQtB7Tl93DwsNa8m3LhcZlVEQz2KX8jNgsYc0KQO7QBxSrVtulvH-oL93OnLd7F5f2OYeUvVDTRDovlvZGxsmmYXqCZBvBYzBL3F/s1024/F68DE3A9-DFDD-49A9-9281-CEC733B0C36D_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijSR4QV_qy2VsC5vJQ8yw5hgHGFiyFfdis6OokHjpEhQtB7Tl93DwsNa8m3LhcZlVEQz2KX8jNgsYc0KQO7QBxSrVtulvH-oL93OnLd7F5f2OYeUvVDTRDovlvZGxsmmYXqCZBvBYzBL3F/w400-h300/F68DE3A9-DFDD-49A9-9281-CEC733B0C36D_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After a long ride</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As May was coming to a close, a rather frightening realization came into focus: I was scheduled to run a 100-mile race in less than a month (Bighorn 100), and I was not in shape to do so. SO....I immediately began putting in some "desperation" miles knowing that I would not have a fast race, but hopefully still have a fun race. I got my mileage volume up to a respectable level and even completed a 46-mile loop run around Flagstaff on the appropriately named "Flagstaff Loop Trail". I fared quite well on this loop, despite speed-hiking a lot of it. I knew that Bighorn was going to be slow, but I at least now felt confident I'd be able to finish it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOd5yRA8vONxehl6EznDCbViqSH7L5HGc26jLdF7XesY7Fzwb9IXMx0hCywdasl3sJbbeeP8n2du5M3ZgJmboRCFNOVUkidjyNvOTT7HiYC9G8Te5-1-dp-Y9Jrx6weIMse6NKotiiURpK/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1539" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOd5yRA8vONxehl6EznDCbViqSH7L5HGc26jLdF7XesY7Fzwb9IXMx0hCywdasl3sJbbeeP8n2du5M3ZgJmboRCFNOVUkidjyNvOTT7HiYC9G8Te5-1-dp-Y9Jrx6weIMse6NKotiiURpK/w300-h400/IMG_0911.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On the Flagstaff Loop Trail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Towards the end of June, C and I flew up to Sheridan Wyoming for what would ultimately be my only 100-miler of the year. I was genuinely quite excited to be running this event if only that it was my first real "overnight" ultra in a long time. I was excited for the 3 am headlamp running through the woods and mountains....even if a lot of it would be hiking.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8VMBekpyqbQ4TaSVEfXdy83QDyVJc2OlfLpr7gy87W2KZtjJaYHYTFTY2AbL2shwcRmfMj0lOQ5qo1-gEJ0WboGbZQrfuyaxh0mRuy7Y3q8WDaKlHBB99-AScL4hg3lStmYlN-rF7OgUF/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8VMBekpyqbQ4TaSVEfXdy83QDyVJc2OlfLpr7gy87W2KZtjJaYHYTFTY2AbL2shwcRmfMj0lOQ5qo1-gEJ0WboGbZQrfuyaxh0mRuy7Y3q8WDaKlHBB99-AScL4hg3lStmYlN-rF7OgUF/w400-h300/IMG_20210618_080240.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Just before the start of the race</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv0S-lbo2RzP_cwuKBgV6rdId3diOu8z74w7JSUChJYfs9CzdrXy4WFHBVfcTBma0-Un-bzbqDPo34b0ZhSTNmsMhE8vwcUBB6rW89e8yf7WzZO3xAjmWshVmHj6yMfOv3ZqXR3hn9lQ7r/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1333" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv0S-lbo2RzP_cwuKBgV6rdId3diOu8z74w7JSUChJYfs9CzdrXy4WFHBVfcTBma0-Un-bzbqDPo34b0ZhSTNmsMhE8vwcUBB6rW89e8yf7WzZO3xAjmWshVmHj6yMfOv3ZqXR3hn9lQ7r/w267-h400/i-mJZjzkP.jpeg" width="267" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">...and crossing the finish just under 30 total hours</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After the race, we spent the remainder of the week camping and exploring various parts of Wyoming and Montana. We kept mostly to ourselves and primarily on back roads. I came to discover just how lovely the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming are.</div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Zx1kNhoPpjOZNFMi9j7_U1vZWS-CenoXYKNLHLcuGX-ZxSux0U-sewG_sKtoz4QMS4lU9bFmHEhvZhiRK2OGjx4-i7M4cgWGIip4ievYJA91yWre8-SytTfYO0jPIfSeA1OhDJXK7xhu/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Zx1kNhoPpjOZNFMi9j7_U1vZWS-CenoXYKNLHLcuGX-ZxSux0U-sewG_sKtoz4QMS4lU9bFmHEhvZhiRK2OGjx4-i7M4cgWGIip4ievYJA91yWre8-SytTfYO0jPIfSeA1OhDJXK7xhu/w400-h300/IMG_20210621_100509.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>Bighorn Canyon</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPLT8pfRg4NztuQexiw5DMq_g3wS2IfEcExCqU9rr61P2XjjxZqM1OnuArFJBvDmgZgLlXwZWeiYD9Vx6vGcruD6KUnxHx4lzMDGWOfGbJPZQjwUBLfm19XibcIcpUCXz-11_f7uFksjGE/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPLT8pfRg4NztuQexiw5DMq_g3wS2IfEcExCqU9rr61P2XjjxZqM1OnuArFJBvDmgZgLlXwZWeiYD9Vx6vGcruD6KUnxHx4lzMDGWOfGbJPZQjwUBLfm19XibcIcpUCXz-11_f7uFksjGE/w300-h400/IMG_0967.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of our camp sites on the trip</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We returned from Wyoming to learn that Flagstaff was literally on fire. As our plane came in to land from Wyoming, the entire town looked like an apocalyptic nightmare. A very large wildfire, the Raphael Fire, was burning just a few miles outside of town and moving towards our neighborhood. This created smoke and terrible air quality for the entire city. We were on "standby" to evacuate...something I never thought I'd be faced with. The fire continued to burn for days, but was eventually stymied. I did catch several photos of the smoke plumes...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPwbY5rMezQ4h0J6JLl9FxaIOEJHClUsqFleO5wokZ8Dc2pamvKidH3KMoIvnamcny1CJPqM9njGuctMZZQFTjMDvB0HqjuPOiTcPhwJyLd5Au_gUqxuUWKeEODIY1pMp_uN7ixLpJbT6Z/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPwbY5rMezQ4h0J6JLl9FxaIOEJHClUsqFleO5wokZ8Dc2pamvKidH3KMoIvnamcny1CJPqM9njGuctMZZQFTjMDvB0HqjuPOiTcPhwJyLd5Au_gUqxuUWKeEODIY1pMp_uN7ixLpJbT6Z/w400-h300/IMG_0991.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Raphael Fire plume as seen from the FLG airport.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In July, came my biggest adventure of the year. I had already agreed to captain an aid station for the Hardrock 100 endurance run up in Silverton CO....but this year, I decided to make my way to the event a little differently. I loaded up the Himalayan with all of my camping gear and supplies, and headed out for a multi-day moto-adventure tour.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6glwvpSkZ4wnQ5u5e7GYFbGTW8It14U0KcDoGVZCb7_bhT0gI_tHv4ioELdY8e_kPppOtfSkmUMo5D6m-iRj9SxFBLc9O9TTR_3_3t3v8dzRDb4SP52Kx58krRId5nSakY-FT6RQXm9hD/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1524" data-original-width="2048" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6glwvpSkZ4wnQ5u5e7GYFbGTW8It14U0KcDoGVZCb7_bhT0gI_tHv4ioELdY8e_kPppOtfSkmUMo5D6m-iRj9SxFBLc9O9TTR_3_3t3v8dzRDb4SP52Kx58krRId5nSakY-FT6RQXm9hD/w400-h297/IMG_1029.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">About to head out for a 7-day moto-tour!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I spent several days traversing Arizona and New Mexico before popping up into Colorado over by the Sangre de Cristo range. I opted to head there first as I still need to summit the two Crestone 14er peaks. In my quest to bag all 58, I was still sitting pretty at 49. Knocking out the 2 Crestones would leave me only the 7 Elk Range peaks to complete the full circuit. So how did it go? Well let's just say that it was incredibly memorable for many reasons. I would also not that Crestone Needle was the most difficult 14er I have completed to date (although I recognize that I still have Pyramid, Capital, and the Maroon Bells to do...which are all quite difficult.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I did post a detailed synopsis of my Crestone Mountain experience here: <a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2021/07/bagging-crestones-50-51.html">Bagging the Crestones!</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD0RhmdeyHEGaZ0x8JPnEOVZSHIJZ8TkfBrJLdbkc_zmOAw4IyONbbnx-zmN8_zuCmItWQFKsgw9TAL_zH5R3jMA2P1kLyIPxZmn6yk7nNhpSw9E37u7D94EhnbZDFfQDMp1UXjed6KXEm/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD0RhmdeyHEGaZ0x8JPnEOVZSHIJZ8TkfBrJLdbkc_zmOAw4IyONbbnx-zmN8_zuCmItWQFKsgw9TAL_zH5R3jMA2P1kLyIPxZmn6yk7nNhpSw9E37u7D94EhnbZDFfQDMp1UXjed6KXEm/w400-h301/IMG_1050.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Starting up the Crestone Route (Crestone Needle visible in background)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9HTgoemMjh3hw8dL4rnuwYHjZSN4qJQRek-I3_9XBSIDcIGEnSyxGckuCE4aTCbcLZ2RPmoOcGmCgmHgYLqlabKm-ZOCcysPsiyJCUDO8o0bCDR9YMuB3dBLHlh1N9PV_yUQtnfjU4xN/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9HTgoemMjh3hw8dL4rnuwYHjZSN4qJQRek-I3_9XBSIDcIGEnSyxGckuCE4aTCbcLZ2RPmoOcGmCgmHgYLqlabKm-ZOCcysPsiyJCUDO8o0bCDR9YMuB3dBLHlh1N9PV_yUQtnfjU4xN/w400-h300/IMG_1052.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Mountain Lake near the base of the Crestones.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-LCFCmp83UiuUR2H5aqk6FJk0GLppWNfWAN4iI_NsruzmJaOP3x3NfvykTjKRoRTT0jbgPbjTTEfii5CK9kHDDohGarLu7N_rN72x9Ctt2_Ytr6himK5angM_BGDdLVaDj8AWNNjevsCi/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-LCFCmp83UiuUR2H5aqk6FJk0GLppWNfWAN4iI_NsruzmJaOP3x3NfvykTjKRoRTT0jbgPbjTTEfii5CK9kHDDohGarLu7N_rN72x9Ctt2_Ytr6himK5angM_BGDdLVaDj8AWNNjevsCi/w400-h301/IMG_1055.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">On the Summit of Crestone Needle (Crestone Peak in Background)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I eventually made my way back to Silverton, taking a rather circuitous and scenic route to get there. The Hardrock race went off smoothly, although it was admittedly a bit difficult to see the runners head out and not be among them. I again captained the aid station at the Finish Line and it was the smoothest and most efficiently run station I've had to date. No hiccups, not problems whatsoever and all of my volunteers were fantastic.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg184btJV4H97jK4NhPLVQIpkdzP0MBOOUBmLw8s3h7NHWbmvuCQYyfTy8sbCiGL_Ulp8tbf1R1PXAnD5kH8a5SXIfJ1Zpv-QaaPglIm8ua1yOnYklPszdwnL_XLhqPsA8KRjmVc2oycSW/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg184btJV4H97jK4NhPLVQIpkdzP0MBOOUBmLw8s3h7NHWbmvuCQYyfTy8sbCiGL_Ulp8tbf1R1PXAnD5kH8a5SXIfJ1Zpv-QaaPglIm8ua1yOnYklPszdwnL_XLhqPsA8KRjmVc2oycSW/w400-h300/IMG_0811.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">First aid-station shift at the finish line</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I returned home, I spent the remainder of the summer mostly just getting out on short runs and rides, and focusing on some home projects. We had a thriving garden that was producing an insane amount of green beans. I also installed a second rain-barrel to collect water for the garden. We also spent July and August getting our home solar panels installed and configured. By August, everything was up and running...producing well over our typical monthly usage (resulting in net-positive electric bills)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3GIgTFRKnt8L56vCsnBdCMSLnJKpHUZvVu389wJywRJzf0WZfBWfK-vfYBkjLAfzxRSj58bsR_SDv1c02-muIPZ1ACoUdigqzZVhQC4nlf_gQFFMDHJxZwDhuknaBJgjjaTyhsSzhWmP/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3GIgTFRKnt8L56vCsnBdCMSLnJKpHUZvVu389wJywRJzf0WZfBWfK-vfYBkjLAfzxRSj58bsR_SDv1c02-muIPZ1ACoUdigqzZVhQC4nlf_gQFFMDHJxZwDhuknaBJgjjaTyhsSzhWmP/w400-h300/IMG_1080.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Who says you can't have a garden in Arizona!?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGqyrQg_MlLzAOva1QBqtm_YxBErULtDGJpa74ncCqSnQ6Z1wzDiX0u4iLumVN-lvSALhjBSgmlh_s0hZWCxKVNaFJV0sECWzCRkBVV1z9WLdCADuxlxnbYDsTYh96LT0kJBpBIxpdMQJ/s1024/C58E9043-C2BF-4EE9-B35B-E8A92CC93DF7_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGqyrQg_MlLzAOva1QBqtm_YxBErULtDGJpa74ncCqSnQ6Z1wzDiX0u4iLumVN-lvSALhjBSgmlh_s0hZWCxKVNaFJV0sECWzCRkBVV1z9WLdCADuxlxnbYDsTYh96LT0kJBpBIxpdMQJ/w300-h400/C58E9043-C2BF-4EE9-B35B-E8A92CC93DF7_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One day bean haul.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsdVAfOdZOongHqQoPhDj7qhpCdsKSGt1GbI1WDMY0PkViJEWfTMt_CWM-d4aeB2BsMZ7LuhOQ5txTQ6ge9B12-7ZNM-FHFK2i1N021DyFaSLrsRPneU6jV2g-5Gsl1uojNRw_eodQGtCa/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsdVAfOdZOongHqQoPhDj7qhpCdsKSGt1GbI1WDMY0PkViJEWfTMt_CWM-d4aeB2BsMZ7LuhOQ5txTQ6ge9B12-7ZNM-FHFK2i1N021DyFaSLrsRPneU6jV2g-5Gsl1uojNRw_eodQGtCa/w300-h400/IMG_1167.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">New rain barrel (and self-made stand)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFAMZvn9_YiLA1sUPb-q_Vz5HkF64SXpmbpCywMOhSIufuBbjk6KFcDxmOzcpNdCVCsy2wa2wo2Fu9lNVNPjiXUHjMt4sOw74tMFySAGjEYLat2oN7P9z_hbQc2ADw9tzOOApeO_-yy4e2/s1024/7B4771EA-7D61-4B88-B21D-FE099AB7655B_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFAMZvn9_YiLA1sUPb-q_Vz5HkF64SXpmbpCywMOhSIufuBbjk6KFcDxmOzcpNdCVCsy2wa2wo2Fu9lNVNPjiXUHjMt4sOw74tMFySAGjEYLat2oN7P9z_hbQc2ADw9tzOOApeO_-yy4e2/w300-h400/7B4771EA-7D61-4B88-B21D-FE099AB7655B_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">New Solar Panels!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On the work front, I was informed I'd be moving offices, so I took it upon myself to paint the walls a fun orange and spice it up a bit. It has been a vast improvement over my previous "dungeon" office.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJxCtRFb_7PnbSD-oYUZ34jK8KR4fA2QSlSd4jaMmPmtGYxObNYpmfxW_QvNqkyYXpV2nCu4SSelAkuSIWmsIlwF220YEmV2oC6QBXraxkZeSeyNhRCjjUzvwT9MBSgSrjR44tgpOgCyG/s1024/36DE0DB4-4A6B-4485-BE94-A0CDCD11A584_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJxCtRFb_7PnbSD-oYUZ34jK8KR4fA2QSlSd4jaMmPmtGYxObNYpmfxW_QvNqkyYXpV2nCu4SSelAkuSIWmsIlwF220YEmV2oC6QBXraxkZeSeyNhRCjjUzvwT9MBSgSrjR44tgpOgCyG/w400-h300/36DE0DB4-4A6B-4485-BE94-A0CDCD11A584_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The new office (before the furniture upgrade) - note the Brompton ;-)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Before I knew it, Fall semester had begun and I had a cohort of over 30 graduate students that were keeping me busy. I did still sneak away on weekend jaunts either on the bike or on foot. I made my annual trip up Humphreys and even stopped to visit the old plane crash site.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjct50Jw30yLr23gSSApe7f6Oe71o3yyZJ31xn0TCG8vjUKd6UB11dteWNO0iz5uvSrwG5Bqmiee33uPLcyJmPAiK_6lZjV3m322JEDs3IxvRsJAin1yvELqB9OGRUQV1zdlWNInfqMPxfq/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1702" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjct50Jw30yLr23gSSApe7f6Oe71o3yyZJ31xn0TCG8vjUKd6UB11dteWNO0iz5uvSrwG5Bqmiee33uPLcyJmPAiK_6lZjV3m322JEDs3IxvRsJAin1yvELqB9OGRUQV1zdlWNInfqMPxfq/w332-h400/IMG_1245.jpeg" width="332" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On top of Humphreys</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRbe_60vUF4-fZfJ80ie2zNrdZss-WudkUzj3P40LqsnJtZpefJHBaHxYtcyFAj68qxSvM_unkakTh4_9iDopgtEz3GQntPhWvBf-wERECkqfSIFwWnZxVCZBLKxmNMyK9lx4V0GbNkuCX/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRbe_60vUF4-fZfJ80ie2zNrdZss-WudkUzj3P40LqsnJtZpefJHBaHxYtcyFAj68qxSvM_unkakTh4_9iDopgtEz3GQntPhWvBf-wERECkqfSIFwWnZxVCZBLKxmNMyK9lx4V0GbNkuCX/w400-h300/IMG_1246.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Plane crash debris amongst the boulder field</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A rather unique trip I took was up to the Grand Canyon on the Motorcycle. I decided to strap the folded Brompton to the back and have a "bike-n-bike" trip. It worked out perfectly and I was able to explore a large part of the South Rim inaccessible my motor vehicle (primarily Hermit's Rest).</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3jG00CzN_K57ZP0gDt-SoXwvDHxnC7bLc60NlQItYvlL4d_FMb0PQ_O1tsZeiuM3Af2s4UHVa3kHEIlIoGuuEB_sKsbfQsauVldeXkR3zNc9F1aw9jQBAEy1Gi7EY9SO6l2_rgjfktC1/s1024/1987AAEB-D535-4907-ABC4-06AA5D7BB1D2_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3jG00CzN_K57ZP0gDt-SoXwvDHxnC7bLc60NlQItYvlL4d_FMb0PQ_O1tsZeiuM3Af2s4UHVa3kHEIlIoGuuEB_sKsbfQsauVldeXkR3zNc9F1aw9jQBAEy1Gi7EY9SO6l2_rgjfktC1/w400-h300/1987AAEB-D535-4907-ABC4-06AA5D7BB1D2_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The Himalayan + Brompton combo</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilT-PRaWiUf4byqfXb_gI3ohfeOWDgO9n3vYJjTdnt0l3-jGgTviPvN3zYE4-SnEL8jumXO3-NeCkkb-MNMu4lXS4U0g-OzOJDgz4q1YvASKsSb1ZXTCv-ItJA9dYG8tFc9x_nkXDnI81C/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilT-PRaWiUf4byqfXb_gI3ohfeOWDgO9n3vYJjTdnt0l3-jGgTviPvN3zYE4-SnEL8jumXO3-NeCkkb-MNMu4lXS4U0g-OzOJDgz4q1YvASKsSb1ZXTCv-ItJA9dYG8tFc9x_nkXDnI81C/w400-h301/IMG_1371.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Relaxing on the South Rim with the Brompton</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOgNFZhjXiWsbFFCbAt3scB1QjCO5JbG0vGwiCZepvHoGPg90548JfaOjgKsbewdriY3XVlapIyZVKSEwmWF88CU3tCKTEKLn3qqEfcKKKYJ5kOQ9gZxQaDqgerhl_00AU_2CiuKgBNDH7/s1024/02654C52-7595-40C9-8764-8BB6A6B58A64_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOgNFZhjXiWsbFFCbAt3scB1QjCO5JbG0vGwiCZepvHoGPg90548JfaOjgKsbewdriY3XVlapIyZVKSEwmWF88CU3tCKTEKLn3qqEfcKKKYJ5kOQ9gZxQaDqgerhl_00AU_2CiuKgBNDH7/w400-h300/02654C52-7595-40C9-8764-8BB6A6B58A64_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The Brompton overlooking the Grand Canyon</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNfVUVN-Zf-2pLMkoj5y0sdWJ_ardw4hzcrRJfhYH1KKwda-rtOR-qemNmEihMjvfuDTFFjRWnzvcHIZiAqMNfqznnWbWaP-TqREMaiytNCCK3-E3a8uX_lXb-wMuxkw0smrmaSkKYSnyx/s1024/D3214796-6CC7-462F-8F6C-F39D294690A0_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNfVUVN-Zf-2pLMkoj5y0sdWJ_ardw4hzcrRJfhYH1KKwda-rtOR-qemNmEihMjvfuDTFFjRWnzvcHIZiAqMNfqznnWbWaP-TqREMaiytNCCK3-E3a8uX_lXb-wMuxkw0smrmaSkKYSnyx/w400-h300/D3214796-6CC7-462F-8F6C-F39D294690A0_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">End of the Road at Hermit's Rest</div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In October, my Mom came out to visit for the first time since we moved to Flagstaff, I took her up to the Aspens with the dog and we had a nice time exploring various places around town.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1DmDs5RhyphenhyphenfTsFJ7mAvDw_IoCfwJwqLB6rhCaQgLzQMxErzmtLEETPCcpI9pPbJdqts0BkveHvUoTeFrFgt4N2ENXypJTCBNFOL2H07WskL-aupLfDg1D_PysSByhIFNsSW7XULEC4xqO/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1539" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF1DmDs5RhyphenhyphenfTsFJ7mAvDw_IoCfwJwqLB6rhCaQgLzQMxErzmtLEETPCcpI9pPbJdqts0BkveHvUoTeFrFgt4N2ENXypJTCBNFOL2H07WskL-aupLfDg1D_PysSByhIFNsSW7XULEC4xqO/w300-h400/IMG_1394.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hanging with Mom</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtxWtCZLwVcJ1y0eH317Cm32uopJuZi4nVmXOkd3oV_zy_Qml9ENt9Uu_jqZHeu2sneNth-K5IlfyEqgJh1IlXVBzYs2ZVYGBCY_XWt_ZlfW43DoNSu6iSk4RKO43sTjozp-amLE_kAS5S/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtxWtCZLwVcJ1y0eH317Cm32uopJuZi4nVmXOkd3oV_zy_Qml9ENt9Uu_jqZHeu2sneNth-K5IlfyEqgJh1IlXVBzYs2ZVYGBCY_XWt_ZlfW43DoNSu6iSk4RKO43sTjozp-amLE_kAS5S/w400-h300/IMG_1399.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Catching some Aspen colors.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS7RB0kJS-7aw5aR3sXhfIpUXJduwim1gGxkh_XRO2Lu6lYYU-rxBjaporM9QtJp6cmx4kxndwOGKsJXErWB40IoET_q1HrF_uiL4Iln34bv2l6urrGkBxJQucH__fpN6An4HMbfB2hH6V/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS7RB0kJS-7aw5aR3sXhfIpUXJduwim1gGxkh_XRO2Lu6lYYU-rxBjaporM9QtJp6cmx4kxndwOGKsJXErWB40IoET_q1HrF_uiL4Iln34bv2l6urrGkBxJQucH__fpN6An4HMbfB2hH6V/w400-h300/IMG_1406.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A visit to the Wupatki Pueblo</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The following weekend I finally made the trip up Kendrick Peak north of town. This is one of those trips I had been meaning to do for a really long time, and finally just went for it. I rode the Himalayan to the trail head, and the hiked up the 2500+ feet to the summit. Along the way, I spotted a famous Northern AZ Tarantula.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLOWtDsVvEFmxSYcqylTrMgdat27lgfT-AAC6O1KGR3NkLDgeZhB5YHdvRvFn3wRXqxwIWdMZFYiasTR8tueeq_mGW9ys5XdxNaa-Rurt7O-4AFedjFUjmyAjNQT0PddulcxqHgg0hpdWW/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLOWtDsVvEFmxSYcqylTrMgdat27lgfT-AAC6O1KGR3NkLDgeZhB5YHdvRvFn3wRXqxwIWdMZFYiasTR8tueeq_mGW9ys5XdxNaa-Rurt7O-4AFedjFUjmyAjNQT0PddulcxqHgg0hpdWW/w400-h400/07EC1692-99BA-4E31-A5DA-FC4BE05D0462.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Northern AZ Tarantula</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkshBwU8XDjmMQ5Nbp0vIWk_e2MyYiLmOC5eUuoIpD4YuLxo3KZ9WBDF-9AMoTaVMSYtAkLJvKJ4iDIsZ9KK_TG5lMhE8YJ6h3S3O3lmUNo0_IubHfvUbqx3Yv5nUx9zAJ4nAYcqKnfUjv/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkshBwU8XDjmMQ5Nbp0vIWk_e2MyYiLmOC5eUuoIpD4YuLxo3KZ9WBDF-9AMoTaVMSYtAkLJvKJ4iDIsZ9KK_TG5lMhE8YJ6h3S3O3lmUNo0_IubHfvUbqx3Yv5nUx9zAJ4nAYcqKnfUjv/w400-h301/IMG_1416.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On the Summit of Kendrick</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In October, our University Department again set out on the annual R2R trip at the Canyon. I couldn't resist going for another solo R2R2R. I decided on this trip though, to see not only how fast I could make it to the North Rim, but, to ascend the Bright Angel Trail on the return. I ended up shaving 20 minutes off of my crossing time and hit the north rim in 5 hrs 40 minutes. Not bad for 22 miles and almost 6000 feet of gain. As expected, the views were again stunning and the Bright Angel Trail was magnificent (albeit longer). One thing I really enjoyed on this crossing was how long I was night-hiking at the start. I didn't turn off my headlamp until the Cottonwood camp well over 10 miles into the hike. I descended the entire South Rim in the dark by headlamp. It was surreal. The one downside to this hike was that I had to wait for the shuttle once I made it to the top of the Bright Angel Trail as my car was still parked down by the Kaibab Trailhead. I didn't make it home until well after dark that night.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIPRdhjXmcDXXj0dfIXI5OAxhat8I6AqWyVCIrsLMvOkXVIMzfcATk18jl_2pjjRxp3WJ45dOz0dx1oT4pwEl9uYGKvbyclJ38XBUkYWvT5Ywk7t65QdlPJsx4jnHersjwljJ0VYgsQP-O/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIPRdhjXmcDXXj0dfIXI5OAxhat8I6AqWyVCIrsLMvOkXVIMzfcATk18jl_2pjjRxp3WJ45dOz0dx1oT4pwEl9uYGKvbyclJ38XBUkYWvT5Ywk7t65QdlPJsx4jnHersjwljJ0VYgsQP-O/w400-h300/IMG_1452.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Part-way up to the North Rim</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Ssp0bcYl9URtgd9mQ4dWtWHkaNhQOdL3GrI_JBW5STSK2SKM94Dt-LFUCf0trlnNPh2vcYuvL7N7-yHlbDzgKGiJ3-mK_IHOXJV_6uTJyO2Ng2CVZMuqxgIe-bKOFViT_vbOlibeIDG5/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Ssp0bcYl9URtgd9mQ4dWtWHkaNhQOdL3GrI_JBW5STSK2SKM94Dt-LFUCf0trlnNPh2vcYuvL7N7-yHlbDzgKGiJ3-mK_IHOXJV_6uTJyO2Ng2CVZMuqxgIe-bKOFViT_vbOlibeIDG5/w400-h300/IMG_1453.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Looking up to the North Rim</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlN98hJUGpOfyQFWSd4wtnGZHUmBdngKR_I37Zo7Xwf1wf2E0Sm_cQuOS1IogtVu30-hSpPauMtZtJIZ1wm9d4q-6I_5rzHNcqxNhrGen-ZOe9wClY3hDqZ98B7kIUGC9Z0xQwVfHeEDko/s1024/CC0AF55B-9C2B-4F40-AA6F-41FEBC387200_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlN98hJUGpOfyQFWSd4wtnGZHUmBdngKR_I37Zo7Xwf1wf2E0Sm_cQuOS1IogtVu30-hSpPauMtZtJIZ1wm9d4q-6I_5rzHNcqxNhrGen-ZOe9wClY3hDqZ98B7kIUGC9Z0xQwVfHeEDko/w400-h300/CC0AF55B-9C2B-4F40-AA6F-41FEBC387200_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On the Bright Angel Trail looking up the final 6 miles.</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXwEWZfb4c_xDXUo74aFwlEnhFlRx4WZK9XY_rMO0l1yOMUwrVLC-B485vdz5o9mEt5kdntLsLfQ1M69ab4mNsAI4H11k6_s_OzRUi3eQbjGqtF8GsyjswKjeo-ldQpIVltWlQAmYNT67R/"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXwEWZfb4c_xDXUo74aFwlEnhFlRx4WZK9XY_rMO0l1yOMUwrVLC-B485vdz5o9mEt5kdntLsLfQ1M69ab4mNsAI4H11k6_s_OzRUi3eQbjGqtF8GsyjswKjeo-ldQpIVltWlQAmYNT67R/w400-h300/IMG_1481.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">A Black-Backed AZ Scorpion on the Bright Angel Trail</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6JL6xo0QqOIIsFjdDq6J-ngQLuWNS1LjvVaUFBI5ER55xk8VawAiLpcJBjta-nHpbUk7tI44wiI6CvBYWWjOeL1aitS9cnDtZbsqHSqEFOMN6fKrc_ROJ8kLOWoQxuYlDDXY75Sdwbfww/s1024/AA58ED4C-8319-4B21-8A49-1BEC1C4F5C18_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6JL6xo0QqOIIsFjdDq6J-ngQLuWNS1LjvVaUFBI5ER55xk8VawAiLpcJBjta-nHpbUk7tI44wiI6CvBYWWjOeL1aitS9cnDtZbsqHSqEFOMN6fKrc_ROJ8kLOWoQxuYlDDXY75Sdwbfww/w400-h300/AA58ED4C-8319-4B21-8A49-1BEC1C4F5C18_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At the end of the climb...again just before sun set.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At some point in the Fall, I was contacted by a local Himalayan owner/rider in Flagstaff that happened to come across a picture of mine online. We exchanged contact info and ended up going on several rides together. It was really fun getting out on some group rides as up to that point, all of my riding had been solo. On one ride up and around Schultz Pass, there was actually 4 of us all ripping it up together. It was splendid.</div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3fhESyutcVPYlq9-FPBLm9j2u9K3FDKw7LivEuY9N2awzDdJX5NbfHBK85lYrvLbS9JqhsepuYuYKU8beY6FuFL7AjobsheY158rGwsX9ioJXjw3TiLYubFtbkqL2YTNfxkRgLXluT6x8/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3fhESyutcVPYlq9-FPBLm9j2u9K3FDKw7LivEuY9N2awzDdJX5NbfHBK85lYrvLbS9JqhsepuYuYKU8beY6FuFL7AjobsheY158rGwsX9ioJXjw3TiLYubFtbkqL2YTNfxkRgLXluT6x8/w400-h300/IMG_1500.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Heading out to "Edge of the World" scenic lookout in Flagstaff</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga3c5azyDuCHtgZhAGwtBLQnjf5Bt2QSxhpM-JQQLKiWsEWjGHPSXuDiNI78iM8MQaI9HKvBaAOc7mkPZBJJSWMn7kFTfVccH3fJzz37mA_3Qnv1Kazib3v_s0ersuhZbcJUqfIqOllK03/s1024/2783658E-91BC-4C4E-BE39-5AA27FBE9684_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga3c5azyDuCHtgZhAGwtBLQnjf5Bt2QSxhpM-JQQLKiWsEWjGHPSXuDiNI78iM8MQaI9HKvBaAOc7mkPZBJJSWMn7kFTfVccH3fJzz37mA_3Qnv1Kazib3v_s0ersuhZbcJUqfIqOllK03/w400-h300/2783658E-91BC-4C4E-BE39-5AA27FBE9684_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Somewhere along the route....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSNOqCY-ne2q5mSMmUepj1q-ikd4-HBRU2_Wy_DwhuCD5wd4Xro9e8DfXjkV7YAF_2hEsDtHcKvB06gzhAf_t3PPp6l2Wi4bjn_oOY2VViRCSqHwvON9o-E91JHXicX0lSRGwO-UwP2c1p/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSNOqCY-ne2q5mSMmUepj1q-ikd4-HBRU2_Wy_DwhuCD5wd4Xro9e8DfXjkV7YAF_2hEsDtHcKvB06gzhAf_t3PPp6l2Wi4bjn_oOY2VViRCSqHwvON9o-E91JHXicX0lSRGwO-UwP2c1p/w400-h300/IMG_1538.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Group ride near Schultz Pass</div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In Early November, I made my annual pilgrimage to Virginia where I would once again run the Mountain Masochist 50-Miler with my Barkley friends. Due to various reasons this year though, it would only be myself and Travis running together. The course this year was also significantly changed and we were pretty sure it would be harder. The race director did extend the race cut-off to 13 hours, however we decided between us that we would still shoot for a sub-12 hour finish as usual. Well, needless to say, the course WAS significantly tougher, and I was not in shape for it. I managed ok through about 32 miles, but from mile 32 to 45, I was in a really bad place. I struggled every step to keep up with Travis and every time I thought I was making up time, I'd check my watch and see that we were just barely on 12-hour pace. Around mile 40, I told Travis to just go ahead, get the sub-12, and I'd just come in a bit later at the finish. I had sort of made peace with the fact that my finish was likely going to be about 10 minutes over 12 hours. Travis was out of sight by mile 42 and for the next 3 miles I slowed a bit on the final climb in an effort to gather myself. When I topped out at around mile 46 I saw that I had about 40 minutes to still make a sub-12. This would require some serious running, on some rocky trail, with completely trashed lags. But...somehow I managed to hit a groove and was overcome with a final surge. I banged out the next 3 miles in sub-8 minute pace and absolutely screamed down the final descent. It was awful, yet amazing at the same time. As I approached the road and final mile I saw that I had run those three miles in about 22 minutes, meaning I still had 18 minutes to run the last mile and make it under 12. When I hit the last straightaway with the finish line in sight about 1/2 mile ahead, I saw Travis was only about 2 minutes ahead of me. I had actually managed to almost catch back up to him. I crossed the line in 11:54 after slowing down a bit over the last 1/4 mile. It was a hard-fought finish....but one that brought a definite smirk to my face. This marked my 6th MMTR finish, and Travis's 22nd! Next year, I will definitely come more trained.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje_bobhFnDEpKzLLBsDmzvksRRzZv92ejJCZ1v0xUkQTj8D5wfcFFTB3NVD7rpLy7ToiY6A0mcbBSE72OWCDzW2tYZtyho9Hu6T0HRxoaBRTdirPOqZyDwXSUgfbDaaWH87fVJGDvuC6VB/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1488" data-original-width="1294" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje_bobhFnDEpKzLLBsDmzvksRRzZv92ejJCZ1v0xUkQTj8D5wfcFFTB3NVD7rpLy7ToiY6A0mcbBSE72OWCDzW2tYZtyho9Hu6T0HRxoaBRTdirPOqZyDwXSUgfbDaaWH87fVJGDvuC6VB/w348-h400/IMG_0051.jpeg" width="348" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Me and Trav (with our crew Mark) at mile ~20.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSoUdwODH_zxO34EpHQaVRIKNYFFGm02HWez6p61m4anTkMB9cDm6BvTTWISkBzX5TyNJ786667L7u7QT3ElAlM7ONMrMt8d5SNHYXhJC0ECEx9DIS2Fjz9YocTtuVQzdPWZxYJ8V37z7d/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSoUdwODH_zxO34EpHQaVRIKNYFFGm02HWez6p61m4anTkMB9cDm6BvTTWISkBzX5TyNJ786667L7u7QT3ElAlM7ONMrMt8d5SNHYXhJC0ECEx9DIS2Fjz9YocTtuVQzdPWZxYJ8V37z7d/w300-h400/IMG_0073.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Right after finishing...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd_j2kQxHn1f2JPydu-I3tcmCqcNNgqCCqU05jtt8EIVnrWl_-4EH1GHq2t0kOb8BdtmosYPfORv3nUKiBCPwGDzGTrLFaVs_o9t9zK5PKgUmtFQHgGyM9r2nYQLEOtYRR6wnr9lVHtac-/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1989" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd_j2kQxHn1f2JPydu-I3tcmCqcNNgqCCqU05jtt8EIVnrWl_-4EH1GHq2t0kOb8BdtmosYPfORv3nUKiBCPwGDzGTrLFaVs_o9t9zK5PKgUmtFQHgGyM9r2nYQLEOtYRR6wnr9lVHtac-/w400-h309/IMG_0086.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The next day....featuring 4 Barkley Finishers!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I got back from Virginia, C and I took a long-weekend trip down to Sedona just to get away for a few days. We explored some caves, played with the doggo by the river, and mostly just unplugged. It was fantastic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGv4OfW42lOqPCN4Xc2pVikvN8K9EUP9ue2wbPgFN_bcP7fKa0temw_0C6amjCfkwmUXY8OZSXpPU6IifQIVICrLSLhOLtXEFcYITaXLniYDGRa9c99F1j9pOB80XbA2u3fyz0AZsJ5r7LKckldssgYVSAGyqI2NJmIHDjlb6oo0AM_-VFt2PQ999CcA=s1022" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1022" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiGv4OfW42lOqPCN4Xc2pVikvN8K9EUP9ue2wbPgFN_bcP7fKa0temw_0C6amjCfkwmUXY8OZSXpPU6IifQIVICrLSLhOLtXEFcYITaXLniYDGRa9c99F1j9pOB80XbA2u3fyz0AZsJ5r7LKckldssgYVSAGyqI2NJmIHDjlb6oo0AM_-VFt2PQ999CcA=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On a hike in Sedona</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHjeu7qYFJe4Xrp3PRmiGPTXUPgYk9tlSJ1na2KIgVMxzYtEdYqShXKWE1rClbblyXy4ilKe3IEOhqru1oXugAF0XAqpWrDZOD7NTUbireT8Ae2SpS6tAGng0f1D5SquYdNPtOT1bFSMQMrfjgGN9a_HVmaa84fJV1DHCWh5Ni53TWSBUx4_e23RFehg=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjHjeu7qYFJe4Xrp3PRmiGPTXUPgYk9tlSJ1na2KIgVMxzYtEdYqShXKWE1rClbblyXy4ilKe3IEOhqru1oXugAF0XAqpWrDZOD7NTUbireT8Ae2SpS6tAGng0f1D5SquYdNPtOT1bFSMQMrfjgGN9a_HVmaa84fJV1DHCWh5Ni53TWSBUx4_e23RFehg=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Oak Creek with the doggo</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgphicSGRAg4xj4GVVDesAg9XjORifx_hHssJCuh0diiVWvUez5bIv5KCGQqPwwgFXNEriLehwxyWnnyupsD-A43t_N0IXVUw8o0udXbGDAK2hbKLHStwb8vOdWFi7pzVPl5k0pJ4EZyAhivYTfou56XxhJzid-QJE205CKloQR7fibSE80cmQcmGPMMg=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgphicSGRAg4xj4GVVDesAg9XjORifx_hHssJCuh0diiVWvUez5bIv5KCGQqPwwgFXNEriLehwxyWnnyupsD-A43t_N0IXVUw8o0udXbGDAK2hbKLHStwb8vOdWFi7pzVPl5k0pJ4EZyAhivYTfou56XxhJzid-QJE205CKloQR7fibSE80cmQcmGPMMg=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Climbing up to the "Subway"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitb-6uVHXQN1oGgA0rmQHxMixYV4P8sZyy_A8shOu7ZCaLASfb6QfbvF2OfTTEc09c7qUgZEr20wkOAXhSO0aVF9mMAtuN8GVi8MwifK23XWOvc4anw0Qnkr1AcCvt4YbKn1Os61YnaRIGk3GA02So0eztZ6EX2k1xC7nl--cAKIfcIjviGGTAPVjmGQ=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitb-6uVHXQN1oGgA0rmQHxMixYV4P8sZyy_A8shOu7ZCaLASfb6QfbvF2OfTTEc09c7qUgZEr20wkOAXhSO0aVF9mMAtuN8GVi8MwifK23XWOvc4anw0Qnkr1AcCvt4YbKn1Os61YnaRIGk3GA02So0eztZ6EX2k1xC7nl--cAKIfcIjviGGTAPVjmGQ=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">View from the "Subway"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-ux3ilGP3LRoyhvgWJ-MIzAnyAh84StlrBNIcLOB97yA4kLXtxs8f23nkRqXJdUYTIfGK7uoIs9piyPVGU1zcEYWzEDoiZPdEnL-ydxSPza0LVFIAJjaqHA6Og705jU9HHuOimepAvKmB3UJ33FiM-Gmj1BTLIwz05yz0aRByFNck6OQhduWicbWQEQ=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-ux3ilGP3LRoyhvgWJ-MIzAnyAh84StlrBNIcLOB97yA4kLXtxs8f23nkRqXJdUYTIfGK7uoIs9piyPVGU1zcEYWzEDoiZPdEnL-ydxSPza0LVFIAJjaqHA6Og705jU9HHuOimepAvKmB3UJ33FiM-Gmj1BTLIwz05yz0aRByFNck6OQhduWicbWQEQ=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">View of Sedona from the "Subway"</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLyT5tbdjw87Gm6NAOtHU3whHxAhuCIGow5WgnwIMh4vTKjzPcW5ArWe_LXLRtf2IFYmxxxzQPRQoHGPziKpNEYb1M5tOaXAhbdUVKRrD5J5kJCHgQqfUE5moRIXXsSosjH6ZiL6Q_RxgQB9Ma11-EEW1Rt7htjcRhAKfMordVDrwFmsLIharEegir8g=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLyT5tbdjw87Gm6NAOtHU3whHxAhuCIGow5WgnwIMh4vTKjzPcW5ArWe_LXLRtf2IFYmxxxzQPRQoHGPziKpNEYb1M5tOaXAhbdUVKRrD5J5kJCHgQqfUE5moRIXXsSosjH6ZiL6Q_RxgQB9Ma11-EEW1Rt7htjcRhAKfMordVDrwFmsLIharEegir8g=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Inside "Hideout" Cave</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbYVstDKfVnEsasLDrgmrdsReLhBPhEUvZcn6CQUNSNh38Ku5uVwqVcibWRsaoyOTWNfRGibzpR9sl2lXT6DBqxyvTKytN1ewCdjoxeXLoVLMxv5zwmU2sAaQvizgzjVDE1SDHtznwxA5Q7XauaLwpYoDcOMDA0H6JLI-tkz7Dhb9PityuKzYz5L63xg=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjbYVstDKfVnEsasLDrgmrdsReLhBPhEUvZcn6CQUNSNh38Ku5uVwqVcibWRsaoyOTWNfRGibzpR9sl2lXT6DBqxyvTKytN1ewCdjoxeXLoVLMxv5zwmU2sAaQvizgzjVDE1SDHtznwxA5Q7XauaLwpYoDcOMDA0H6JLI-tkz7Dhb9PityuKzYz5L63xg=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">View from "Hideout" Cave</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For Thanksgiving this year, we headed to Southern California to the town of Wrightwood...as a way to meet up 1/2-way with some Family coming from Northern California. I had not been to Wrightwood since my PCT thru-hike back in 2010, so was excited to return. As it happened, I had some "unfinished business" in Wrightwood. Back in 2009, a large wildfire (Station Fire) had burned through the area, resulting in several sections of the PCT being closed in 2010 during my hike. I had to hike many re-reroutes or alternates to get around these sections. One such section was the part of the trail that goes up and over Mount Baden Powell....a rather well-known summit. I had always been bummed that I wasn't able to do that hike, so now that I was back in Wrightwood, I hiked it not once, but twice! I was a spectacular section of trail and the views from the top were top-notch.</div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi3Y24MQQ2jpy8yziMUPIHFHS0uSKX73rDMkyJW3WPaj2CttqSFH5PtvinuzVdrqMvrvF4_o854Do1h5dRCwewLo4s7FVR617u4HHLDPWIVqFCmd-UX4zIcF3owM73QtSE1yRwrDWZ7qkYKwuaV4wcbazShVYjtsTG3yRUaT0jm7dybpym3n5tEEa3GjA=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi3Y24MQQ2jpy8yziMUPIHFHS0uSKX73rDMkyJW3WPaj2CttqSFH5PtvinuzVdrqMvrvF4_o854Do1h5dRCwewLo4s7FVR617u4HHLDPWIVqFCmd-UX4zIcF3owM73QtSE1yRwrDWZ7qkYKwuaV4wcbazShVYjtsTG3yRUaT0jm7dybpym3n5tEEa3GjA=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The start of the Baden Powell section at Vincent Gulch.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhLAeUmsRPgBGV6pUpqhJewwTZbyAc9K5pg7T-aSGYQbmLEj0X_5XnO5k-KW4FhMAr5aiEkjopbyAeq87rz5wrOAzqBJJ4t9XiO1nV6t8CnCaVAAoJWk0-w5MHSsgJjB-_TsKvO_mowKJgm-nTLgIHSU1dCM9zgfYaibnLAmHzKdiWB3o-BQ83rI0bvTw=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhLAeUmsRPgBGV6pUpqhJewwTZbyAc9K5pg7T-aSGYQbmLEj0X_5XnO5k-KW4FhMAr5aiEkjopbyAeq87rz5wrOAzqBJJ4t9XiO1nV6t8CnCaVAAoJWk0-w5MHSsgJjB-_TsKvO_mowKJgm-nTLgIHSU1dCM9zgfYaibnLAmHzKdiWB3o-BQ83rI0bvTw=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A view of Baden Powell from the highway</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj_AKugcl0lXcN58SXWl0-fMeJGL6Gdo7oHnpOJd3onnt_Yq9dlhCwrB6Uig7kOtEE8BwfPrt67ofQgozD4surYhoKNXhZn6fCEL3GcnoC82jbqzhAVnsy5VKNyh2Zv0Nw71q8QckMBtjt1qMzVPgnIffoa1TQW7u6Rova2FmIIgq1rzZFvPjHLAk7v_Q=s3088" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj_AKugcl0lXcN58SXWl0-fMeJGL6Gdo7oHnpOJd3onnt_Yq9dlhCwrB6Uig7kOtEE8BwfPrt67ofQgozD4surYhoKNXhZn6fCEL3GcnoC82jbqzhAVnsy5VKNyh2Zv0Nw71q8QckMBtjt1qMzVPgnIffoa1TQW7u6Rova2FmIIgq1rzZFvPjHLAk7v_Q=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On the Summit!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I got home from Thanksgiving break, I had the wonderful pleasure of seeing off 13 new graduates from the Climate Science Masters Program. Many of these students spent their entire graduate experience over Zoom, making their graduation all that more meaningful and impressive. I am incredibly proud of each and every one of these students. As part of the celebration, I held a "Hooding Ceremony" where we celebrated each student, and also exchanged fun, silly, or occasionally embarrassing stories.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-oj0295b3DxdJ2te5ZISVZsVGlmLyFm0ltGe92gpJsaNC9aLTtdcZV5JqKjQ5KtaL-lLOetfMhS_NO-NC20W-I9ZYKli9HmAER3lJK5JJIYDJQ6SNIX4L3oFOgduvhtYHeMNVA0PRv2FL_4Dq0VEafDg2FS-PIJcLBc4pkteav8EsEZinMxV-jL1mZA=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-oj0295b3DxdJ2te5ZISVZsVGlmLyFm0ltGe92gpJsaNC9aLTtdcZV5JqKjQ5KtaL-lLOetfMhS_NO-NC20W-I9ZYKli9HmAER3lJK5JJIYDJQ6SNIX4L3oFOgduvhtYHeMNVA0PRv2FL_4Dq0VEafDg2FS-PIJcLBc4pkteav8EsEZinMxV-jL1mZA=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2021 Climate Science MS graduates (5 not pictured)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrVxvWOLA8OUnMtzPCjRbnrYamLjSm1HKSZFzH94FEMa17Ax6qAEDHuNgzMnhwL1Yr96gVLX53Q-N5owB04WwDpO-usiQ-A1h7OYf2C9f2fVbmm4I4UFtIAa3cQxeUOc_MjkUHH55jtaAbS4pGQDA1DXdnLtO2TgXF2fSJ4vvKD4V3k2V6tU-X_0sVfw=s4032" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrVxvWOLA8OUnMtzPCjRbnrYamLjSm1HKSZFzH94FEMa17Ax6qAEDHuNgzMnhwL1Yr96gVLX53Q-N5owB04WwDpO-usiQ-A1h7OYf2C9f2fVbmm4I4UFtIAa3cQxeUOc_MjkUHH55jtaAbS4pGQDA1DXdnLtO2TgXF2fSJ4vvKD4V3k2V6tU-X_0sVfw=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hooding a Student</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi55S8GYrAq7Pd8eRb_S214SPqFWN3LuGAjmoj0TdW_m0U4CxR7TIY5eSxUnBobEiuUfW7Zw0BvQoijmv5t-YVk7YmMUGbi31OggA929s7O6SMf9bmYzPUeuAUsZSm1o0y2pYYKDt6cz7huFcnJKF2SMZNt14Y7DeYEcTa0bxzKxdXLlFuBXbid1ANf-Q=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi55S8GYrAq7Pd8eRb_S214SPqFWN3LuGAjmoj0TdW_m0U4CxR7TIY5eSxUnBobEiuUfW7Zw0BvQoijmv5t-YVk7YmMUGbi31OggA929s7O6SMf9bmYzPUeuAUsZSm1o0y2pYYKDt6cz7huFcnJKF2SMZNt14Y7DeYEcTa0bxzKxdXLlFuBXbid1ANf-Q=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The next day at graduation</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Very shortly after graduation, the first real snows fell, effectively marking the end of any sort of trail season, or riding season. I immediately put the scooter up for winter storage, but kept the Himalayan on standby just in case we got another warm spell (which I am not anticipating). I think it's probably just me not being willing to admit the riding season is over just yet. I suppose I'll come to terms with it soon enough...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-xOkf8LXkI9atwsNRVS8pssg-2SKgnNGYVPBSlJkhPiRwlS_DNuh43bO-ZXIsQG50naE6HRe3skaCWlT_kH3wTmYeh2uemL5q3QZlgCwmPmd9ZTQWPEaH48vNS8Y0fVM6lBs5XZrdfvTKZNaFYg06JBRFpiPLhm9pXk7YnUrOzKK7q5Ul0EOHCq2pdw=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-xOkf8LXkI9atwsNRVS8pssg-2SKgnNGYVPBSlJkhPiRwlS_DNuh43bO-ZXIsQG50naE6HRe3skaCWlT_kH3wTmYeh2uemL5q3QZlgCwmPmd9ZTQWPEaH48vNS8Y0fVM6lBs5XZrdfvTKZNaFYg06JBRFpiPLhm9pXk7YnUrOzKK7q5Ul0EOHCq2pdw=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">....and 14+ inches of snow overnight....</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhi9BzxWTgeKvEuSnZLAjVgaUHwIuIZcwPHCCvEGPLGF_dj4f2glozpRLQ9LT6ebio3-rBbgxxMLl7Fe4lIzY1lQl4bt-4Y9xN_xMTNqlE7wRAjWv539M6ye0N5aoySUSWuLAW4kLt05O_BcqkjMVGQZOgK0aGfZCImr_5rVUkxcnLZyHSyoXqj8uKkvQ=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhi9BzxWTgeKvEuSnZLAjVgaUHwIuIZcwPHCCvEGPLGF_dj4f2glozpRLQ9LT6ebio3-rBbgxxMLl7Fe4lIzY1lQl4bt-4Y9xN_xMTNqlE7wRAjWv539M6ye0N5aoySUSWuLAW4kLt05O_BcqkjMVGQZOgK0aGfZCImr_5rVUkxcnLZyHSyoXqj8uKkvQ=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Good night Scootie. May you live to ride another year...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And that wraps it up. There were definitely some other fun things I did along the way this year that I didn't include here, but I figured this post was probably long enough. I do have some fun ideas bouncing around my head for 2022, but we'll see how things shake out as the year starts to progress. Needless to say, I'm hopeful for another good year, and cautiously optimistic that I'll be able to experience some new and exciting adventures.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So...with that said. Happy New Year everyone, and as always....KEEP EXPLORING.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'll leave you with my silly doggo wearing a Yeti costume, mid-yawn....making her look like a ferocious abominable snow-dog!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUli9ZcoHCn4KaNJNo7e8ZnGb-7nQR9J2dHm2mBSaZKvswiiVVYP5rlbOa06-T5Bts8QCPAF8FGJ4bmvP7IcZejQWNJT7yYuE4ImZUQdK0Nqy-gF8CfbPT884Lg2crOYajIq8PXFqLW56zhIaOWJVIqBYR7HvcDiNU0xje_O95CcJWJmwmrZPg30Tv9A=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgUli9ZcoHCn4KaNJNo7e8ZnGb-7nQR9J2dHm2mBSaZKvswiiVVYP5rlbOa06-T5Bts8QCPAF8FGJ4bmvP7IcZejQWNJT7yYuE4ImZUQdK0Nqy-gF8CfbPT884Lg2crOYajIq8PXFqLW56zhIaOWJVIqBYR7HvcDiNU0xje_O95CcJWJmwmrZPg30Tv9A=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">GRRRRRRR!</div><p></p>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-80774914153633130762021-07-23T15:47:00.011-04:002021-07-23T19:00:27.926-04:00Bagging the Crestones (#50, #51)<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilazrTjOJXEyg4K6uYXJ0-j6gmRKQGb_hOwVp7JGhayfYU-5Sf0KTk2BMtyh_Cs9XH9D4CSHCSMyUBQM91lalMiA9BHIj5LbujB1DGJveYxejZf-8eZjmNE3q-mNv7m49TIapFeUte-act/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilazrTjOJXEyg4K6uYXJ0-j6gmRKQGb_hOwVp7JGhayfYU-5Sf0KTk2BMtyh_Cs9XH9D4CSHCSMyUBQM91lalMiA9BHIj5LbujB1DGJveYxejZf-8eZjmNE3q-mNv7m49TIapFeUte-act/w400-h301/IMG_1055.jpeg" width="400" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;">On Crestone Needle</p><p style="text-align: left;">I just returned from a moto-touring trip to Colorado, where I spent over a week riding around multiple landscapes and mountains on the new Royal Enfield Himalayan, camping at high altitude, running an aid station at the Hardrock Hundred, and of course bagging 14ers. Rather than fill up this entire post with all of the details of this trip, I figured I'd simply focus on one specific part for this post: The Crestones.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5XWq7Cl_JorXolzyAYfh0qdKM6iMZPhyphenhyphen-zUEP50nQAhjaNYe-0URBF_N79zScxgzs2ngIJGXILYuFBy2IL5TRp_Fo7OYHpjuzAmt96TAYafxtvEQunln3vKE6nNpgRHr6t1seTNkXk-mw/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1524" data-original-width="2048" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5XWq7Cl_JorXolzyAYfh0qdKM6iMZPhyphenhyphen-zUEP50nQAhjaNYe-0URBF_N79zScxgzs2ngIJGXILYuFBy2IL5TRp_Fo7OYHpjuzAmt96TAYafxtvEQunln3vKE6nNpgRHr6t1seTNkXk-mw/w400-h297/IMG_1029.jpeg" width="400" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;">All loaded up and ready to go!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpbctpG8VFrS_0Gco3OYINKRNcD5UOf0THsZdoG6WNCyJ_AVQNDAAIFNpIlGUK0V_F4g2ARoWp3nZ2bPDqBYUWFvR5RJlAy1AzQFHysf1ecxE7euh-A4NG4ifrF-9AS6-ScjwjllM4ac7S/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpbctpG8VFrS_0Gco3OYINKRNcD5UOf0THsZdoG6WNCyJ_AVQNDAAIFNpIlGUK0V_F4g2ARoWp3nZ2bPDqBYUWFvR5RJlAy1AzQFHysf1ecxE7euh-A4NG4ifrF-9AS6-ScjwjllM4ac7S/w400-h301/IMG_1039.jpeg" width="400" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;">At Shiprock on my way to Colorado</p><p style="text-align: left;">As many of you know, I'm on multi-year quest to summit all 58 officially recognized 14er peaks of Colorado. Technically there are more summits over 14,000, but the generally accepted list includes 58. Before my trip to Colorado last week, I was sitting at 49/58 summits. My goal on this trip was to skirt over to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and finally finish off the 2 Crestone Peaks, thereby finishing off all of my remaining peaks outside of the Elk Range. </p><p style="text-align: left;">Let me start by saying that this trip was successful, but not without some hiccups. Of the 51 summits I have now completed, I think it's no exaggeration to say that these two peaks were the hardest I've done to date...specifically Crestone Needle. There was legitimate class 4 pitches on that climb, and very-real exposure. I nearly turned around at the crux of the route for failure to find a safe way to continue, but ultimately found a way to traverse it after much scouting.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQB0x4NEVlXBaUB7KtAwS0s4MTIlq8OOLna_tBOpx6BY5ptNKtLCJQjJOkZD3i38fK096htYHYvfHNiwq56NFUw61OohZ1tY4eeUvHa-iOmkZxhJHhU37pH44-SJByW9RxV8MumkmYa17/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQB0x4NEVlXBaUB7KtAwS0s4MTIlq8OOLna_tBOpx6BY5ptNKtLCJQjJOkZD3i38fK096htYHYvfHNiwq56NFUw61OohZ1tY4eeUvHa-iOmkZxhJHhU37pH44-SJByW9RxV8MumkmYa17/w400-h300/IMG_1044.jpeg" width="400" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;">At the lower trailhead for the Crestones</p><p style="text-align: left;">I wanted to share my experience for any of you thinking of doing these routes. I chose to hike up to the Colony Lakes area and camp the night before, giving me plenty of time to make both summits. I also chose not to take the bike up to the upper trailhead. I probably could have, but the road was a little more technical than I wanted to attempt with a fully loaded bike, and I know it was also likely to rain, making the descent back down the road the next day potentially muddy and loose. Lastly, I also made the decision to hike each peak independently and not attempt the "Traverse". I had no intention of doing a class 5 traverse that is known for being one of the deadliest 14er routes in Colorado. For anyone thinking of doing these peaks like I did, I highly recommend downloading all of the 14ers.com app data and photos....and be sure to also bring an inReach or Spot device. I shared my route with family and had an SoS button should I need it (<a href="https://share.garmin.com/johnfegy">https://share.garmin.com/johnfegy</a>)</p><p style="text-align: left;">The route up to Colony Lakes is uneventful and all class 1. I found a campsite just short of the primary lower lake area at about 11,600 feet. I was set up by 7 pm and falling asleep by 9.</p><p style="text-align: left;">I was up at 5 am to start my day and the hike up to the base of Broken Hand Pass was all class 1 and 2 easy hiking and scrambling. Starting at the base of the Broken Hand Pass Gully, you finally hit the first legitimate class 3 scrambling. All totally doable with a few moves requiring all-fours. No real notable exposure in here though. From the summit down to the backside valley and lake, it's all easy class 1 and 2 descending...and a subsequent easy hike over to the base of the major "red" gully up to Crestone Peak. For about 1600 feet, you then slowly work your way up class 3 moves to the final upper saddle of Crestone. This section took me over 90 minutes. From the upper Saddle over to the Summit, there are a few exposed class 3 moves, but nothing too sketchy. Still, you have to be slow, deliberate, and focused. I was never genuinely scared, but was definitely alert and focused. The descent back down to the lake went perfectly with no major route-finding or other issues.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcmHfiqLdhGjeY_xKtErVh1CL2YHGcI3b476ECZ-mOaEX22oBsYF17zRFe59JfR6nJrdCp5ZAMfFYcPN6zfLEy7Id45dXaAp1fCRzwGV8fVlY-jkP43XlbS5IAgMHvDdec6VK0lC-nlw7/s2048/Screen+Shot+2021-07-23+at+12.24.01+PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1493" data-original-width="2048" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkcmHfiqLdhGjeY_xKtErVh1CL2YHGcI3b476ECZ-mOaEX22oBsYF17zRFe59JfR6nJrdCp5ZAMfFYcPN6zfLEy7Id45dXaAp1fCRzwGV8fVlY-jkP43XlbS5IAgMHvDdec6VK0lC-nlw7/w400-h291/Screen+Shot+2021-07-23+at+12.24.01+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Map showing the routes I used from my campsite.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Red = Crestone Peak</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blue = Crestone Needle</div><p style="text-align: left;">I made my way back over to Broken Hand Pass to begin the route up to Crestone Needle, starting at about 10:30 am. The first 1/3 of the route was all class 1 and 2, fairly easy work. That all changed at the start of the first gully however. This ascent was considerably steeper and more technical than the gullies on Crestone Peak. There were a couple of spots that took genuine effort to get up...and I would consider these "difficult class 3". There were also a couple spots that did present some notable exposure.</p><p style="text-align: left;">At the crux of the route, there is a distinct "crack" in the gully known as the "dihedral". At this point, photos show where you need to "hop" across the crack and ascend the other side. Despite all of the route descriptions I had, and photos showing the correct place to make this move, I could not find the right spot that I felt safe/comfortable with. The scene just didn't match what the photos showed. I found a spot that I thought looked "ok" but if I committed to it, and couldn't make it work, I could have become legitimately stuck. I tried to find an alternate place to cross, but just couldn't find anything I was good with. Ironically, by the looks of things, I had determined that in the return direction, it would actually be much easier to cross as the lower side of the "crack" was much more climbable. I essentially pulled the plug and began to down climb, when I noticed a spot further down that would allow to get across easily, but would present a steep class 4 pitch to meet up with the spot higher up where I was "supposed to cross". I decided to give it a go and it was way harder than I was expecting. There were a couple moments on that pitch where I was genuinely scared and being very careful to find strong and stable hand holds. A fall from this pitch would have not ended well. When I made it to the spot where I was supposed to cross, I still had class 4 exposed pitches to make it up to finish out that gully. It was about then that I realized I might be in over my head.</p><p style="text-align: left;">I made it to the top of that pitch, and had to then hop over to the 2nd gully. This one was also quite technical but seemed considerably less exposed. I slowly made my way to the top of that gully and topped out at a saddle. From there the route presented a series of steep class 3 scrambly moves, that were also quite exposed. I timidly made my way along this narrow corridor, and just about when I was mentally at my limit, I topped out on the summit block. This entire experience was by far the most stressful and mentally exhausting of any summit I've done (granted, I still have Pyramid and Capital to do...which are notoriously difficult).</p><p style="text-align: left;">I didn't celebrate on the summit, but rather stressed about the down climb. I knew it would be tough, so focused on simply getting through each section as it came, knowing the crux might present a real problem. Thankfully, as I determined earlier, the crux proved much easier on the descent, and I was able to cross at the correct place. One through that gully and in sight of the Pass, I knew the worst was over. I was back at my campsite safely by about 2 pm. </p><p style="text-align: left;">All went well packing up my gear and I began the 5+ mile class 1 forest road walk back to the motorcycle hoping to quickly re-sort my gear at the bike, and get on the road to the next town over for a motel room. Well....it didn't quite work out that way. About 2 miles up from the bike, I got hit by a massive Colorado Monsoon Storm with lightning, pea-sized hail, and torrents of rain. With no car to get into at the trail head, I made the decision to pitch my tent in the rain, and wait out the storm. I was borderline hypothermic, so this was the right call. After about an hour of heavy rain and hail, it finally let up and I was able to get into dry/warm clothes and sort all of my gear properly. I was back on the road by 6pm where I was able to safely make my way to motel room a few hours away. It definitely was an interesting way to end the day, but I'm glad with the success I had on the mountains.</p><p style="text-align: left;">If you plan to do the Crestones, please just take them slowly, and carry all of the route beta with you. I had GPX routes loaded on to my Gaia app on my phone as well, which did help in some of the tricky spots.</p><p style="text-align: left;">I have 7 peaks left now, all in the Elk Range. These are all also quite difficult peaks and will take a lot of planning. I will likely start with Castle and Conundrum and work my way up to the Maroon Peaks and of course, Snowmass and Capital.</p><p style="text-align: left;">That's it for now. I did record quite a bit of video footage of my day in the mountains if you're interested in some more of the intimate details from the day.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xdbPaCEnHao" width="460" youtube-src-id="xdbPaCEnHao"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Video highlights from my day on the Crestones</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUkehcN0M_c_hBFfOR0fhZzMr4rHn0MLmMNByQiXvFhmVjamhCCqgdqGqrYQoSnXMdc6K2Zziqd1lOx81j_9MOEzSTqiA1Mc3NLAe4tAqPRo-ZUUWGypm7cfHxss4Zy335pKH0qY5-ZAL/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUkehcN0M_c_hBFfOR0fhZzMr4rHn0MLmMNByQiXvFhmVjamhCCqgdqGqrYQoSnXMdc6K2Zziqd1lOx81j_9MOEzSTqiA1Mc3NLAe4tAqPRo-ZUUWGypm7cfHxss4Zy335pKH0qY5-ZAL/w400-h300/IMG_1052.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Morning view from the lakes</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirHTKUa1to7lmM_c8f_B8opzICYLjdDRgzJ-AZDjM2O_jferojVndH1EhTIOdfymsCjraypPCyWYsSj6bsdFCft_rEVE5Ky_1f_HnWHas2jU6xjpQmbfC2DJk3fWOjhWxe3Uy7tRj2Dg0Y/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirHTKUa1to7lmM_c8f_B8opzICYLjdDRgzJ-AZDjM2O_jferojVndH1EhTIOdfymsCjraypPCyWYsSj6bsdFCft_rEVE5Ky_1f_HnWHas2jU6xjpQmbfC2DJk3fWOjhWxe3Uy7tRj2Dg0Y/w300-h400/IMG_1053.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Crestone Needle seen from the Lakes</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimKSCW2B_vuPbOhUvJdQPpiyTIM7GmN9zn81TPxjzZ5yieZhVyIxY2slCpORAeJj4LEuSqWh-gg7iPygqr5eYjyuVWIq2RvT1BfzDQxDe286P2SJ4hDmNzPx4hC0bRufNMcZh6kucToko3/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimKSCW2B_vuPbOhUvJdQPpiyTIM7GmN9zn81TPxjzZ5yieZhVyIxY2slCpORAeJj4LEuSqWh-gg7iPygqr5eYjyuVWIq2RvT1BfzDQxDe286P2SJ4hDmNzPx4hC0bRufNMcZh6kucToko3/w400-h300/IMG_1059.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On the Summit of Crestone Peak</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilazrTjOJXEyg4K6uYXJ0-j6gmRKQGb_hOwVp7JGhayfYU-5Sf0KTk2BMtyh_Cs9XH9D4CSHCSMyUBQM91lalMiA9BHIj5LbujB1DGJveYxejZf-8eZjmNE3q-mNv7m49TIapFeUte-act/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilazrTjOJXEyg4K6uYXJ0-j6gmRKQGb_hOwVp7JGhayfYU-5Sf0KTk2BMtyh_Cs9XH9D4CSHCSMyUBQM91lalMiA9BHIj5LbujB1DGJveYxejZf-8eZjmNE3q-mNv7m49TIapFeUte-act/w400-h301/IMG_1055.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On the Summit of Crestone Needle</div><p></p>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-37033685779140384942021-06-08T23:54:00.011-04:002021-06-10T17:31:57.469-04:00A Spring Update, and Some New Adventures<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJogN6SDNRKeeDfmGZZOZT2Ufk_unvREk3n5QhsulvmnT9wwN4B6V5L3DBvF9O9vADIg6sJ59oTa3BV3Hnwb_BbnmfOTePdrtw3gMTJM_Cg1Zi5m79_2s94qBCrsTiuGwJHAdDrgu5miqA/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJogN6SDNRKeeDfmGZZOZT2Ufk_unvREk3n5QhsulvmnT9wwN4B6V5L3DBvF9O9vADIg6sJ59oTa3BV3Hnwb_BbnmfOTePdrtw3gMTJM_Cg1Zi5m79_2s94qBCrsTiuGwJHAdDrgu5miqA/w400-h300/IMG_0882.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Brompton H6R</div><p></p><p><b><u>So what the heck has happened to this web journal John? Where've you been??</u></b></p><p>Well, it's really not that complicated. Life gets busy, and priorities shift. More simply I would say that for the first time in my life, I am genuinely sharing my home and therefore have spent what free time I do have, enjoying my now-shared life. And frankly, it has been wonderful.</p><p>Of course my new faculty position at Northern Arizona University, combined with my life and responsibilities here as a new homeowner in Flagstaff has pulled a considerable amount of what otherwise may have been "free time".</p><p>In addition, I've picked up a few new "toys" as of late (perhaps indicative of an age-related crisis), and found myself spending time enjoying those things more as well.</p><p>So...ultimately, I'm not running as much, nor writing as much...but I do feel that my life has genuinely found itself in a place of sincere contentment. Sure I could post detailed entries here about the new restored barnwood table we had built for our home, or the new garden boxes we've installed out back, or the various adventures and mishaps of Molly our dog (who has settled in nicely by the way)....but honestly, I'd rather just live in those moments and haven't really felt the need to post lengthy recaps about things like that (save maybe a couple of quick pictures below)...</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-RZ7J1rtvqCEXfLbxHGOXKldTV25J7SM4o9r7cmuKrDoVrE-l8H2I31L_hPQ_-9_0qVvVxGdjwfZTQhQCCrMK36-jDjyaUynIfpzGfI6rSPIC5MZJ0un9DzqLIlvGcDeQgDd6R50jEye/s1024/3138FF2F-B144-4D9D-BBD4-760E6B1E0AE0_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl-RZ7J1rtvqCEXfLbxHGOXKldTV25J7SM4o9r7cmuKrDoVrE-l8H2I31L_hPQ_-9_0qVvVxGdjwfZTQhQCCrMK36-jDjyaUynIfpzGfI6rSPIC5MZJ0un9DzqLIlvGcDeQgDd6R50jEye/w400-h300/3138FF2F-B144-4D9D-BBD4-760E6B1E0AE0_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Reclaimed Barnwood Table</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQTtR8RmmNe0Mn-vcp_NhZ2SHtI7YFbTrPSznd68LpW9tuQclQi5OWjX_KDxO2anVMJlDyaO70xZ_pSruQwf6iC-cONdOyqsTiWPH9OEMIsGzb3haL3dQ5uFG5mi2hvr7QsjBl2lX3UPF/s1024/30AE5DD8-0BE6-4B9D-8CAB-2DB647AD7ECD.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQTtR8RmmNe0Mn-vcp_NhZ2SHtI7YFbTrPSznd68LpW9tuQclQi5OWjX_KDxO2anVMJlDyaO70xZ_pSruQwf6iC-cONdOyqsTiWPH9OEMIsGzb3haL3dQ5uFG5mi2hvr7QsjBl2lX3UPF/w300-h400/30AE5DD8-0BE6-4B9D-8CAB-2DB647AD7ECD.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Molly being her adorable self</div><p>Over the years I've had many friends tell me that they enjoy reading my entries on this web journal of mine, but for where I am in my life now, I guess I'd like to consider myself as in somewhat of an "emeritus" status with regards to this site. I'd like to continue to post a couple of entries now and then, as well as my "year-end" posts, but am now likely beyond the days of posting about my mileage preparation for a random 50k ultra event, or a race report from a local 10k. I wrote here about things that brought me joy, and as a way for me to somehow capture the memories in print. But as I've aged, that desire has faded and I have found solace in simply living the moments as they happen. Perhaps that sentiment will shift back to more like it once was. A memory sine-wave as it were.</p><p>At any rate....I did want to share some fun news about another new "toy" that I hope will bring some new joy into my life.</p><p>Nine years ago when I ran the Barkley, I met a fantastic runner from Belgium named Wouter. He's also in the documentary "The Race That Eats Its Young". While we were chatting one day, I became fascinated by the bike he brought with him from Belgium. It was a British made fold-able bike called a "Brompton". What blew my mind about the bike, was just how small it was when folded up, and the fact that he was able to bring it on the plane with him as his "carry on". It even fit in the overhead bin! When he got off the plane in Knoxville, he unfolded it, strapped his luggage to it, and rode in the 20+ miles to Frozen Head State park for the race. I told myself that one day, I wanted to get one for commuting and various travel.</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrChu8Nflb2lC3fJvsrBmXZgTurLlAdmK9Ue69oLNRRj3_eqxBEqUlx5T5K2e7bN8VFC_CAq8PCmZ12l_UrtodmXf3OYCc-87rVhHBlibW5_WYmcKvz-q6JsskS_EfTPoQVv1U2SdD65o3/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1612" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrChu8Nflb2lC3fJvsrBmXZgTurLlAdmK9Ue69oLNRRj3_eqxBEqUlx5T5K2e7bN8VFC_CAq8PCmZ12l_UrtodmXf3OYCc-87rVhHBlibW5_WYmcKvz-q6JsskS_EfTPoQVv1U2SdD65o3/" width="381" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wouter folding his Brompton</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(photo from the "Race that Eats its Young")</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4oXV6mf760GjiP03WYlEWZnc8gekLk_cxttUyIQ_E3wyvd8obvkBi_-BmbpNvjWtZSicgG8pK9elEWRb10y1YZs29T_LkFn4j5PlIQSUik7DzBND3GPyBbrJm0MmE0DfC9VD2J0XHcdJ5/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1559" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4oXV6mf760GjiP03WYlEWZnc8gekLk_cxttUyIQ_E3wyvd8obvkBi_-BmbpNvjWtZSicgG8pK9elEWRb10y1YZs29T_LkFn4j5PlIQSUik7DzBND3GPyBbrJm0MmE0DfC9VD2J0XHcdJ5/" width="394" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wouter riding his Brompton to Frozen Head</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(photo from the "Race that Eats its Young")</div><p></p><p>Years went by, and after test riding a couple of Bromptons in Boston, I finally picked one up relatively cheap down in Phoenix two weeks ago. It helped that I sold my old commuter bike as well to help offset the cost.</p><p>I've been using the Brompton now to commute into work daily and can fold it up and store it under my desk in my office, or under my table in the coffee shop. I have been absolutely and completely enjoying my time on it.</p><p>For those curious, it is an H6R model with a -12% gearing (44 tooth chain ring). This just means it has 6 speeds, a gearing configuration meant for hilly terrain, a rear rack, and slightly higher handlebars. It's incredibly comfortable and I hope we share many future miles and adventures together.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguowNFY1QF3P7E1IMxtv42ACNMUucPLxQkEKN3bivraMR4QKf8v7vVDJNCwwUzzZ7jGhEXNAmMWSwElAIjTZAbdE8zG7jC3HxuEuLPkk1u3XzgF_04jtFN2RR8ZSfYVbqdSo6ZuHN7KTY6/s1024/00340D58-EF25-4DAE-A398-FE07C8B2FF1F_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguowNFY1QF3P7E1IMxtv42ACNMUucPLxQkEKN3bivraMR4QKf8v7vVDJNCwwUzzZ7jGhEXNAmMWSwElAIjTZAbdE8zG7jC3HxuEuLPkk1u3XzgF_04jtFN2RR8ZSfYVbqdSo6ZuHN7KTY6/w300-h400/00340D58-EF25-4DAE-A398-FE07C8B2FF1F_1_105_c.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The New Brompton Folded</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5R_qRpYlSDrJGBAkI9EyMUID6qVrLVW_sV15-EUjZN2OXbGhZQcn30agxVbo72a0qUMmnc2PMCAd4b318FunMVa5R5qzLH6zEBcWvHRmSJiyEk-eO5gb7HHa8uO4aVvV0iqTIDKOL1P_/s1024/AC68205C-A0F0-43D3-801C-67A232D55B02_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK5R_qRpYlSDrJGBAkI9EyMUID6qVrLVW_sV15-EUjZN2OXbGhZQcn30agxVbo72a0qUMmnc2PMCAd4b318FunMVa5R5qzLH6zEBcWvHRmSJiyEk-eO5gb7HHa8uO4aVvV0iqTIDKOL1P_/w400-h300/AC68205C-A0F0-43D3-801C-67A232D55B02_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The New Brompton Unfolded</div><p>As far as my other 2-wheeled adventures, there have been MANY. I have taken the Royal Enfield Himalayan out on countless rides on just about every terrain possible. I've wiped out a few times, had some close calls on rocky surfaces, and explored some ridiculous places around town.....so pretty much the exact types of experiences I had hoped for and for which I ultimately bought it.</p><p>In a few short weeks, I'll take the Himalayan up to the San Juans of Colorado for a true camping and adventuring-style week. Whatever happens, I'm sure it'll be memorable.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMrYQTPa6mwRw5WBD1Sfr_dJAJ2i4zg3Ko61a7GK-5PMb4z4KKecxr1pT_VYyya75zXQ59BOrb_LCifHba8MgJtyEbyZFqRCV7Za3iAIaredEEodKC8kKJTORzwToyhfT3jD7wwCH0wcQ2/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMrYQTPa6mwRw5WBD1Sfr_dJAJ2i4zg3Ko61a7GK-5PMb4z4KKecxr1pT_VYyya75zXQ59BOrb_LCifHba8MgJtyEbyZFqRCV7Za3iAIaredEEodKC8kKJTORzwToyhfT3jD7wwCH0wcQ2/w400-h300/IMG_0531.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Near Horseshoe Hill</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijIu_PvwgGM8iyPJt19Qr4kysoxruZDRZb7vA5ZyJEz-0iSjDWtmjxQUm8PGCyv_hyJaEfZL6U7KAbnr-WYxCnNUYXpnAc01PeHR0ZAV_4VOZSxkMXhBuXDSFMmskUKCXxbYbp3JVTHxmy/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijIu_PvwgGM8iyPJt19Qr4kysoxruZDRZb7vA5ZyJEz-0iSjDWtmjxQUm8PGCyv_hyJaEfZL6U7KAbnr-WYxCnNUYXpnAc01PeHR0ZAV_4VOZSxkMXhBuXDSFMmskUKCXxbYbp3JVTHxmy/w400-h300/IMG_0876.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">SP Crater</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFj-weHBT9nBy7LlnRmm63xEhXGxQO6FqIMg4E-OVHqwBSO6xJfSronBAzBVsNlqLSd9-J6H_Cu8hCXbd1Bp8PE5p6HlP-uu5ebz-wcU75KMTYM4uxDYmwQrTGktrTCcdZ4r3cWdZJ8TJ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFj-weHBT9nBy7LlnRmm63xEhXGxQO6FqIMg4E-OVHqwBSO6xJfSronBAzBVsNlqLSd9-J6H_Cu8hCXbd1Bp8PE5p6HlP-uu5ebz-wcU75KMTYM4uxDYmwQrTGktrTCcdZ4r3cWdZJ8TJ/w400-h301/IMG_0844.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ready for my big Colorado Adventure</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOdW0YIltoL5_BDuZpUC5EEYt8DvD4w-omMYeBJvkYTXgkEMSGxpwLSLJJsywNcEf_5lxsDnWHentrazuO6YSBkdDI3TYVt4yEwqkFal_-eo8hZd1ysssLMYM05S30n2V40WYBvTYCWUu/s1920/Untitled6.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOdW0YIltoL5_BDuZpUC5EEYt8DvD4w-omMYeBJvkYTXgkEMSGxpwLSLJJsywNcEf_5lxsDnWHentrazuO6YSBkdDI3TYVt4yEwqkFal_-eo8hZd1ysssLMYM05S30n2V40WYBvTYCWUu/w400-h225/Untitled6.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Exploring some back roads</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_uqCW3hdt8q9j2cyqM9E6HOlb1oJuOTIiH-Rr4bYX-00Ip-Etutlz4h95iFsKazQiZCOKaVIePQjFzhOj-S4bJS3oziGbDEuauMR2lpVwOmAdW46nmjhcKz0LhqIPQz6vizXG2BQ9WLfq/s1920/Untitled4.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_uqCW3hdt8q9j2cyqM9E6HOlb1oJuOTIiH-Rr4bYX-00Ip-Etutlz4h95iFsKazQiZCOKaVIePQjFzhOj-S4bJS3oziGbDEuauMR2lpVwOmAdW46nmjhcKz0LhqIPQz6vizXG2BQ9WLfq/w400-h225/Untitled4.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">More back roads</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_EbrcGRA3kkwCYUaWAmm525xr6lKbtFHY5Ju-Mi1RYmYF1_JBrC9LUXr5w8VkxBN7kQ2xrhJsTKsCpuiwizrkOEBZVG5Uq43xWnVMuP-5gcvcgWjIWo3I3TSBC7eIcYSmchnNB-q70p8c/s1920/Untitled2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_EbrcGRA3kkwCYUaWAmm525xr6lKbtFHY5Ju-Mi1RYmYF1_JBrC9LUXr5w8VkxBN7kQ2xrhJsTKsCpuiwizrkOEBZVG5Uq43xWnVMuP-5gcvcgWjIWo3I3TSBC7eIcYSmchnNB-q70p8c/w400-h225/Untitled2.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A wee mishap</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqD5nLftiVQsQT5IU_KTYeRttllL-tcDSYWPmrwohquib7_X5e-Wi1tgU3sijUnepza4EUrnQ6UDPKODYA6Gl76cgdY6kOmB80St3zTdgMUshHLtfnJNSN2Z_MnlXKXYjeidjwvnB3JHF5/s1920/Untitled3.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqD5nLftiVQsQT5IU_KTYeRttllL-tcDSYWPmrwohquib7_X5e-Wi1tgU3sijUnepza4EUrnQ6UDPKODYA6Gl76cgdY6kOmB80St3zTdgMUshHLtfnJNSN2Z_MnlXKXYjeidjwvnB3JHF5/w400-h225/Untitled3.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another wee mishap</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Last week I ran the 46-mile Flagstaff Loop trail and had a jolly old time circumnavigating my new home here in Flagstaff. It also was a test to see if I'd be in shape to even just finish the Bighorn 100 (which is now next week!). I did fine and feel much better about trudging my way through 100 miles in the woods of Wyoming.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKcsQYKHxeMvRgLFxCNm-EIUVUj3mLZXjtdj-xXlcVIMzMArkJ87hH566HobeF8cP-YsuJkx18Q0p0JTF1wKCfgkG0HsnmN2MuQG6n2tsblBaii4CNwBRrRxlGD4AGYssHWxgrL6OKxLO/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1539" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPKcsQYKHxeMvRgLFxCNm-EIUVUj3mLZXjtdj-xXlcVIMzMArkJ87hH566HobeF8cP-YsuJkx18Q0p0JTF1wKCfgkG0HsnmN2MuQG6n2tsblBaii4CNwBRrRxlGD4AGYssHWxgrL6OKxLO/w300-h400/IMG_0910.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On the Flagstaff Loop Trail</div><p>...And that's about all I have to share at the moment. There have been numerous other life adventures these past few months (including another R2R2R)....but I think I'll stop this post here. I keep looking out the window and seeing the perfect weather out there and feel the need to get out for an evening run.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqTydb4uKdaEn7ZZM2MSveywthtAty8c4YzaP788vGZZEW6vbwabJrvF1xE1Cyy93rEwAXNquE3q-_S1Bz4l-1OZ4Xg8liTw7Ai5D09-X5CWqywGT4ABUn5K3uFqYgRbN4vpBNdfGOmgCQ/s1024/2D7B5AC1-1C75-4536-AF9E-C5A4A47C36C5_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqTydb4uKdaEn7ZZM2MSveywthtAty8c4YzaP788vGZZEW6vbwabJrvF1xE1Cyy93rEwAXNquE3q-_S1Bz4l-1OZ4Xg8liTw7Ai5D09-X5CWqywGT4ABUn5K3uFqYgRbN4vpBNdfGOmgCQ/w400-h300/2D7B5AC1-1C75-4536-AF9E-C5A4A47C36C5_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Grand Canyon from the South Rim</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(from my 2nd R2R2R)</div><p>So with that said, take care everyone, and be safe out there.</p><p></p><div><p></p></div>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-35917291551709562862021-01-05T15:09:00.021-05:002021-01-05T23:34:28.402-05:00Discovering Home: 2020 Year in Review<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvMVkFOWoRzPUZhlLOB9XgC65PvpwaBJpPMJ9pN6CUWZ7iJqbY0Jy32mF9MU1a2S6iTwXBOrSsaTv-DjqFMUV65u7cUwMCjynXCjKkfnygt2YhJKTP4BqNd5nZoIQcTc07b204B9Izo-EO/s1886/Screen+Shot+2020-12-29+at+5.32.57+PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1432" data-original-width="1886" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvMVkFOWoRzPUZhlLOB9XgC65PvpwaBJpPMJ9pN6CUWZ7iJqbY0Jy32mF9MU1a2S6iTwXBOrSsaTv-DjqFMUV65u7cUwMCjynXCjKkfnygt2YhJKTP4BqNd5nZoIQcTc07b204B9Izo-EO/w400-h304/Screen+Shot+2020-12-29+at+5.32.57+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In my element on the new Himalayan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There's a lot that could be said about 2020...most of which has already been said by countless others. I can think back to January of this year...and to all of the fun adventures I had penciled into my calendar for 2020. Nearly all did not come to pass for the obvious reason that was a worldwide pandemic. As disappointed as I might have been that many of my adventures were canceled or postponed, I was never once truly salty about it, as I was fully aware of the scale and significance of what was happening. In truth, it has been over 100 years since the world faced a pandemic of this enormity and of this risk to the public health. So while my spirits may have been dampened a bit by the many cancellations, my heart was always thinking of the many who were dealing with the pandemic from a much closer (and more personal) level. What's more, is that in spite of the many cancellations, I managed to discover many places and go on many adventures that I otherwise would not have. In addition, I don't think C and I would have welcomed our wonderful new four-legged family member into our home. So...I guess for me, there were still many silver linings.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>2020 In Review</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I started 2020 in what seems like a ridiculously unusual way now. Having survived my first full semester as a new Assistant Professor, C and I celebrated the new year in downtown Flagstaff by attending the annual "Pine Cone Drop" in the downtown square. This is a somewhat goofy tradition, but it would mark the last time in the last 12 months that I found myself in such a large open crowd of people.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9CRQ3lZ8PWTEQecBz-4XWxxmv0cFWygkLwEfeZE52O_MRHu0k6SKJJ3AlX6ZjDxatbhQyUjdpOCG1J1AgUw2JwVr4jrv0aIa6Ph7LAQkXIrLmQ1Kz96rMDsolQWUpZFBpoiueC7RnB15Y/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9CRQ3lZ8PWTEQecBz-4XWxxmv0cFWygkLwEfeZE52O_MRHu0k6SKJJ3AlX6ZjDxatbhQyUjdpOCG1J1AgUw2JwVr4jrv0aIa6Ph7LAQkXIrLmQ1Kz96rMDsolQWUpZFBpoiueC7RnB15Y/w400-h300/IMG_1707.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Nearly midnight on Dec 31st!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-q3oaIHXR2qh2XmOCyDFLDbW2He3n_MvaJt57nlYZN8B8UYMQR6bojZ-FhZ5UJ6QVoOSPew0BENpxTd3JZ7kMxAweC3IqG72R_RLW4RFoggfrL5xQizWgNnVjjfqU_MvzY-H7QwgABMoG/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-q3oaIHXR2qh2XmOCyDFLDbW2He3n_MvaJt57nlYZN8B8UYMQR6bojZ-FhZ5UJ6QVoOSPew0BENpxTd3JZ7kMxAweC3IqG72R_RLW4RFoggfrL5xQizWgNnVjjfqU_MvzY-H7QwgABMoG/w400-h300/IMG_1708.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Everything about this picture seems so wrong now.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As January rolled in, two annual traditions came into focus: My 3hr loop run that I always do on the first weekend in January, and my month-long streak I do every year to pull myself out of my winter idleness.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, on January 3rd, I headed up to Buffalo Park in order to complete as many 1.9 mile loops as possible on in 3hrs, and managed to come away with 22 miles again (for the 3rd straight year!). I also managed to maintain a very healthy running streak for the entire month (with the help of my apartment complex's treadmill). I even threw in a couple of shorter races at the Coldwater Rumble, the Elephant Mountain 50k, and the Little Colorado River Half, to keep me motivated. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Without hesitation, I can say that I was firing on all cylinders in January. I felt good and the miles felt good. By the end of the month, I felt fit, and strong again. It was going to be a good year for running! At the Elephant Mountain 50k I even finished in 3rd place!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDL1xvf_7R9wf0-dZd5fjezQidIHWGlmpYhpv5CcZAA9WjQAIhtKtA3oVy2rdVo3O_vOXaxXeuFyACPFuwtyMlw0TUt2vVx4iChyYssvW_NQ6tD_4DwwSWvlWZcbUAvBAq9K_XyO9Havud/s2048/Screen+Shot+2020-12-14+at+4.52.25+PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1349" data-original-width="2048" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDL1xvf_7R9wf0-dZd5fjezQidIHWGlmpYhpv5CcZAA9WjQAIhtKtA3oVy2rdVo3O_vOXaxXeuFyACPFuwtyMlw0TUt2vVx4iChyYssvW_NQ6tD_4DwwSWvlWZcbUAvBAq9K_XyO9Havud/w400-h264/Screen+Shot+2020-12-14+at+4.52.25+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">3hr loops at Buffalo Park</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguv-Spy-6caJfklx7iQWdItnWMqAtb08tpPpdRi32Y-es9mai5Zk9zkSUp2si8pzfaTJeHS2EasDjU3DpbLoyaC-rFGlIjuIWSwYHZZCTs4FdPcCWSanAdg5Jb6WiHqAWAW4dZzhZcSKIK/s1254/Screen+Shot+2020-12-14+at+4.53.23+PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="822" data-original-width="1254" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguv-Spy-6caJfklx7iQWdItnWMqAtb08tpPpdRi32Y-es9mai5Zk9zkSUp2si8pzfaTJeHS2EasDjU3DpbLoyaC-rFGlIjuIWSwYHZZCTs4FdPcCWSanAdg5Jb6WiHqAWAW4dZzhZcSKIK/w400-h263/Screen+Shot+2020-12-14+at+4.53.23+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Run Streak in January</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_zb-1K1X5x_9wAd0YKbDdpNbP6L98yFAqc4wggzmIk4LyLqpzH0ySXSQNVzv_1l6lN8Ct1SomYPtIF_ZCUG_aE5Ch0UgV7Cd9klAhskJiJSbTlQlAbM8Fh5GYqpZkIdCNq8pQ67q_HEHN/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="658" data-original-width="991" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_zb-1K1X5x_9wAd0YKbDdpNbP6L98yFAqc4wggzmIk4LyLqpzH0ySXSQNVzv_1l6lN8Ct1SomYPtIF_ZCUG_aE5Ch0UgV7Cd9klAhskJiJSbTlQlAbM8Fh5GYqpZkIdCNq8pQ67q_HEHN/w400-h265/Screen+Shot+2020-04-10+at+5.49.05+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Coldwater Rumble</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG98oe_v1Z0-k75nv3Yc3Do7t7cgm_d4FtEDJHNbekvL9Z-8ZRe0B_Ty19CbyQh5e1Ne6ZQyTLWxv2lka05jnayiGkIwJpXUiVsRITMlx6C2mb_SO6bwLFJgAFqKTYW_UeSf-T-hy6T8WW/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1518" data-original-width="2048" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG98oe_v1Z0-k75nv3Yc3Do7t7cgm_d4FtEDJHNbekvL9Z-8ZRe0B_Ty19CbyQh5e1Ne6ZQyTLWxv2lka05jnayiGkIwJpXUiVsRITMlx6C2mb_SO6bwLFJgAFqKTYW_UeSf-T-hy6T8WW/w400-h296/Screen+Shot+2020-12-14+at+5.05.33+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Coldwater Rumble</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Coldwater Rumble Strava: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3023073910">https://www.strava.com/activities/3023073910</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHakcT9_ZhRjclz0a3NfSzG5oAnkWVq385CrDG9yX9dfB2rY1hM-jWu15O12Km_AHGjpQ5Ga3ZVcDTGaiQ2Nt904dyJIZ5L6isb6CeR3Mj-FT_PunGjNJNji_z2-QgESkEOGh6qgxfPvBq/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="689" data-original-width="1049" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHakcT9_ZhRjclz0a3NfSzG5oAnkWVq385CrDG9yX9dfB2rY1hM-jWu15O12Km_AHGjpQ5Ga3ZVcDTGaiQ2Nt904dyJIZ5L6isb6CeR3Mj-FT_PunGjNJNji_z2-QgESkEOGh6qgxfPvBq/w400-h263/Screen+Shot+2020-02-06+at+7.55.56+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Elephant Mtn. 50k</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu-tHJIiyNo4D1uuqCWTH36v_9nBos8SPOPuA1GonY2oigQ1aKIvhbyZhwS0zdVuSpeSL4Ed5Ag11pnkCYUEVAN-LSzpHx8Jg5SJ-n6-FG5WQSz1xd0_OWneXSlgC7P-gChhYWPcJsdJ8p/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1534" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu-tHJIiyNo4D1uuqCWTH36v_9nBos8SPOPuA1GonY2oigQ1aKIvhbyZhwS0zdVuSpeSL4Ed5Ag11pnkCYUEVAN-LSzpHx8Jg5SJ-n6-FG5WQSz1xd0_OWneXSlgC7P-gChhYWPcJsdJ8p/w400-h300/Screen+Shot+2020-12-14+at+5.05.54+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Elephant Mtn. 50k</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Elephant Mtn. 50k Strava: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3063587172">https://www.strava.com/activities/3063587172</a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2qH0KKr8u8q3CqfPn2velEC9o8EVAMhU31f2KikPXRdKs3GjuORwKI3dDiqFs6eBvOEnTklfXYRbxv2RbcJ6EkGeG1uYuuN_YUW67fiP2Z2nlN_JJlWgduZR-E9Aeuafvleu0KVt1uaOz/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2qH0KKr8u8q3CqfPn2velEC9o8EVAMhU31f2KikPXRdKs3GjuORwKI3dDiqFs6eBvOEnTklfXYRbxv2RbcJ6EkGeG1uYuuN_YUW67fiP2Z2nlN_JJlWgduZR-E9Aeuafvleu0KVt1uaOz/w300-h400/IMG_1750.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">3rd Place Award for the Elephant Mtn. 50k.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3mWxGp-cRmajnd9XmQih8b4ZVYeFJ1TgZIe4fxjdgNPFz0eZYWGClDifhz86T1JuSRP5Cj99zc3YpVpZSaGWtrS6fFZGhyBp54asGee6v0GANAVVpk8TQ6KVJ-TFzHRH4CGZw_r6D2jAc/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1472" data-original-width="2048" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3mWxGp-cRmajnd9XmQih8b4ZVYeFJ1TgZIe4fxjdgNPFz0eZYWGClDifhz86T1JuSRP5Cj99zc3YpVpZSaGWtrS6fFZGhyBp54asGee6v0GANAVVpk8TQ6KVJ-TFzHRH4CGZw_r6D2jAc/w400-h288/Screen+Shot+2020-12-14+at+5.06.05+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Little Colorado River Half</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Little Colorado River Half Strava: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3083647598">https://www.strava.com/activities/3083647598</a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">After completing the Little Colorado River Half a week before the Black Canyon 100k...I felt primed and ready. I was in great shape, and ready to break 12 hours on the course. What I wasn't ready for was the desert. This east coast, humidity-driven runner, struggled quite a bit with the dry/hot air. Regardless, I still enjoyed my time out on a a lengthy course with my body in true runner shape!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I ended up having a mixed-day....really good for the first 45 miles or so, and then really rough for the last 15+. I slowed down to a walk the last few miles which pushed me over the 12hr mark by about 15 minutes. Still, I couldn't complain. I mostly had fun, and just notched an early Western States Qualifier for next year to boot. Nice. Following the race, I also would have the Boston Marathon in April, and of course, the Hardrock 100 in July (which would be my pinnacle and focus race of the year....at least I thought so in February).</div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2yq46O96Kr4gigpwO6W_U3uCNTnyhOG_YfS4e70PEOkwyl_8l1220OEHyf1D9N2cdztcbNwhyphenhyphennpXlGCJUsRAoAA_PEGvqWbTBNkCouCLfp_0oxrngE4N5DkfGSr4_uKSREgqdmUm-LUWl/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="969" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2yq46O96Kr4gigpwO6W_U3uCNTnyhOG_YfS4e70PEOkwyl_8l1220OEHyf1D9N2cdztcbNwhyphenhyphennpXlGCJUsRAoAA_PEGvqWbTBNkCouCLfp_0oxrngE4N5DkfGSr4_uKSREgqdmUm-LUWl/w400-h293/Screen+Shot+2020-02-21+at+5.13.20+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Black Canyon Finish Line</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzWp1IsSFXxwf3IsVLjmGyh78hK7CNeePiMrA8P1OaQlI-Eyj9-yzD8LQCZgLwDlofkamvMpgcFyw9jtortblZ5t0q5wQRalE5O8I4s_NZVm88u9s7zB_GcVHj48eWQFHEjR_bEVJcyfVg/s2048/Screen+Shot+2020-12-14+at+5.10.27+PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1498" data-original-width="2048" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzWp1IsSFXxwf3IsVLjmGyh78hK7CNeePiMrA8P1OaQlI-Eyj9-yzD8LQCZgLwDlofkamvMpgcFyw9jtortblZ5t0q5wQRalE5O8I4s_NZVm88u9s7zB_GcVHj48eWQFHEjR_bEVJcyfVg/w400-h293/Screen+Shot+2020-12-14+at+5.10.27+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Black Canyon 100k</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Black Canyon 100k Strava: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3105244197">https://www.strava.com/activities/3105244197</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><br /></div></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Following Black Canyon, I was I was excited to shift my training regimen to more hard and fast road miles to start prepping for the Boston Marathon. I would be running it with my great friend, and former running partner from Boston. It would be her first time running (and my second...<a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2018/04/boston-misery.html">although my first was pretty awful</a>). It was going to be a GOOD year! My new semester was also starting off well. My teaching methods and style were getting better and more honed, and my students seemed content as well. I was getting some new co-authored papers out and all seemed to be on track to be somewhat of a predictably good year both academically, and from and adventure perspective.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">......</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And then March came. And with it, the SARS-CoV-2 virus. I had recalled hearing rumblings of this strange new pneumonia in China back in January, imagining "what if" it became a crazy world pandemic! Little did I know that it was inevitable at that point. I wrote at length about my experiences through the first few months of 2020, and the difficult adjustment to a "New Normal" here:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2020/04/the-reality-of-new-normal.html">Reality of a New Normal</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The last thing that C and I had planned before the world around us came to a screeching halt, was a fun camping trip down to the Mogollon Rim area. We had planned to swing through the town of Pine, AZ to visit with an old Barkley friend ("Frozen" Ed Furtaw). We booked a small teardrop camper for our Subaru to test it out (we were thinking of maybe buying one), and I even installed the hitch and wiring harness myself. But then right before Spring Break and our trip, the entire University and City of Flagstaff shut down completely. Our lives outside of our small apartment, effectively stopped.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqAWseB7v5RgUiL7sO6qnwRBb533D16AF1pd2IZR2TSskN264kfZb2pXTnkX8PR9aaLfDF5Ds9Ru89fFsPDSXATW5F6IAWNB09D3x5baWaErBl3Col7_QjrQnAbaTkrofoHyqn-5mhYvn5/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqAWseB7v5RgUiL7sO6qnwRBb533D16AF1pd2IZR2TSskN264kfZb2pXTnkX8PR9aaLfDF5Ds9Ru89fFsPDSXATW5F6IAWNB09D3x5baWaErBl3Col7_QjrQnAbaTkrofoHyqn-5mhYvn5/w300-h400/IMG_1762.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Newly installed wiring harness</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Life for the next few months became all about sheltering in place. We did a lot of cooking, baking, and small gardening....and I stayed centered by still getting out on solo runs into the woods. We got a lot of take-out meals too, to try to support our favorite local restaurants...but otherwise only ventured out once a week for mandatory groceries. We also started getting weekly COVID testing. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Our classes went fully online for the remainder of the semester, and the enormity of what was happening began really setting in. This would be life now for the foreseeable future. About this time, I was also starting to get regular notifications of various adventures and races being canceled. First it was Boston (postponed to September), then the ultimate gut punch, Hardrock. I was really looking forward to circling the San Juans again. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">During my many runs, I came to learn about quite a few new favorite places around town. I fully explored the trails of Tuthill, and discovered the Woody Mountain area (still one of my favorites). I explored Sedona a few times, found out about Sycamore Rim, and played around the trails near the big peaks and over along the AZ trail near Fisher Point. I spent many hours on Caltopo and Gaia learning of fun places to explore. C and I started a daily habit of walking 2 miles each morning to help clear our heads and stay focused. It seemed to work well.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0WmXbuVXsrkeK4vy3ljS7DFMWw1OzC83uIn_7b1ebVOVmw1JrmWzr7AHoSmgKszBhb7AXAu9ANBEOL5KbQO3FEVMDqLHNDY7I5mU4Rly8U0Q4Ic-N-m-RYPVA12_US8EXtFPFOeMO0MZi/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0WmXbuVXsrkeK4vy3ljS7DFMWw1OzC83uIn_7b1ebVOVmw1JrmWzr7AHoSmgKszBhb7AXAu9ANBEOL5KbQO3FEVMDqLHNDY7I5mU4Rly8U0Q4Ic-N-m-RYPVA12_US8EXtFPFOeMO0MZi/w300-h400/IMG_1847.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Homemade bread</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafXq1nAQoNOYie8pEW2kbF0hOv_ulKsTbizK9F6eSewr48ElZrzarNMeP_OlqRrqPVHmvmGUdbrNwv_kbkv4AZm8-Ias9OBO0m9mEAmg7q3-MZ9LNCcA3I0g-zr79q17QcYkExSgJKJ66/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafXq1nAQoNOYie8pEW2kbF0hOv_ulKsTbizK9F6eSewr48ElZrzarNMeP_OlqRrqPVHmvmGUdbrNwv_kbkv4AZm8-Ias9OBO0m9mEAmg7q3-MZ9LNCcA3I0g-zr79q17QcYkExSgJKJ66/w400-h300/IMG_1805.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of many fires we burned while sheltering in place</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA53pEm0edWSPo8RFk1k-iTlIptlVor3pO6lSNULUAT2pFXpjQ23vQZIHq4oKpggzzEp74jWs9PDLRqtJm_6iAMlQgUu0Oe4lDTEIRl3JA_z5jUa3sz1Fy2ujHlsDjIHRZfoZv-2HV1qPU/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA53pEm0edWSPo8RFk1k-iTlIptlVor3pO6lSNULUAT2pFXpjQ23vQZIHq4oKpggzzEp74jWs9PDLRqtJm_6iAMlQgUu0Oe4lDTEIRl3JA_z5jUa3sz1Fy2ujHlsDjIHRZfoZv-2HV1qPU/w300-h400/IMG_1849.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hey look...new sprouts!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8GPfASEeomKEQIZFTrH1I-W9GjXv4p0SiX2mBQaY8SxfRhRGffzyV1PEgfd7EOuM1YII-wfbW9-qynJ-sraznffRBucsokyBMV-NsvR9QYFjP3JBHC1oBXhG6msmMrv0RQG6c1qdJloTy/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8GPfASEeomKEQIZFTrH1I-W9GjXv4p0SiX2mBQaY8SxfRhRGffzyV1PEgfd7EOuM1YII-wfbW9-qynJ-sraznffRBucsokyBMV-NsvR9QYFjP3JBHC1oBXhG6msmMrv0RQG6c1qdJloTy/w300-h400/IMG_1848.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">....and more Sprouts!</div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwmiHCQLJ_JSJzWqXAWGP9UUoDvz0mIHyWN648lSzGIMf5PqdVaH3-ZKNGYnKdNqnmsn3uT-40vBM0N6lC6TA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Time lapsed plants in the Sun!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUm09RSWHWPQzsAX7PQXG8yZp9FolBOuoC7w8eKoGWtRRkk6tAzrIVFaIuip_wesPYDsS4QpbOrLEwkLwzExlx6fbwvZxMNKUgvIonZjmJy2-wtzXT7Ung10alifxPRAuYeLrtWcQEd2fV/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUm09RSWHWPQzsAX7PQXG8yZp9FolBOuoC7w8eKoGWtRRkk6tAzrIVFaIuip_wesPYDsS4QpbOrLEwkLwzExlx6fbwvZxMNKUgvIonZjmJy2-wtzXT7Ung10alifxPRAuYeLrtWcQEd2fV/w300-h400/IMG_1845.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Woody Mountain Tower</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj530C8vSn5nhKhdu6tVAb3CrzwD_sU0QOEdXTCDRpYJ_uoWDTCdrbSy6Z6jx3dY-V0dG_WdL1pDxk1iiUsk5Djx3WwF_OIgYZHrfKORxhft-T8LOSy6Fjuc9XNidTDJmyV-NaYkvpUDcoV/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj530C8vSn5nhKhdu6tVAb3CrzwD_sU0QOEdXTCDRpYJ_uoWDTCdrbSy6Z6jx3dY-V0dG_WdL1pDxk1iiUsk5Djx3WwF_OIgYZHrfKORxhft-T8LOSy6Fjuc9XNidTDJmyV-NaYkvpUDcoV/w400-h300/IMG_1819.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>View from one of my many March runs<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTDBzru9a-we4QoiXksdM6YXAQRBTEoMHlZbiPZKxrKA-pvgZff4FG6o2Sq3FRR9B0uChKnMf4F7eaDBRmfeMSA5D4QtnvKUsYAA7_ueMNERe3zPGC55y20xg3eypwd2agY6XL6qGNR7F/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYTDBzru9a-we4QoiXksdM6YXAQRBTEoMHlZbiPZKxrKA-pvgZff4FG6o2Sq3FRR9B0uChKnMf4F7eaDBRmfeMSA5D4QtnvKUsYAA7_ueMNERe3zPGC55y20xg3eypwd2agY6XL6qGNR7F/w400-h300/IMG_1795.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The local Elk herd that roams near Fisher Point</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6jjweOUHb34YIYXGnCkTr4k3Wp6o2Zzsms_ih56bVX6fiDuYBBWyCHbJHxQFiQKiQdW0R2RKr6u-uYzk0bu1DR6X4VghMPL1Sells7uREzULUz8WbprcDTruDFbafjQflwrGPi0_EZRs8/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6jjweOUHb34YIYXGnCkTr4k3Wp6o2Zzsms_ih56bVX6fiDuYBBWyCHbJHxQFiQKiQdW0R2RKr6u-uYzk0bu1DR6X4VghMPL1Sells7uREzULUz8WbprcDTruDFbafjQflwrGPi0_EZRs8/w400-h300/IMG_1784.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another new running route.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZOGGDw9E66g-MGt9XFAlAnJ7-M6dzidv-Y9kkMjvoF-7c10xQeqssdfFvxVwZv7TUvsxa0CPZIvnuIAI7V8m5uAS3V_llUbCGTgAJ-HF6442b-XrWMBjUAJ6TfjK1O4o1N-H5fQ_akCt/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZOGGDw9E66g-MGt9XFAlAnJ7-M6dzidv-Y9kkMjvoF-7c10xQeqssdfFvxVwZv7TUvsxa0CPZIvnuIAI7V8m5uAS3V_llUbCGTgAJ-HF6442b-XrWMBjUAJ6TfjK1O4o1N-H5fQ_akCt/w300-h400/IMG_1878.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Baby Horned Lizard we found on a hike in late April</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjwhZO4LiI_6jaCfLKf_P50Ox87sqpONJGQibiWIJ4USrEYKDBOc5tB9G9_nfSB7r9brhRL8jov-ixAZNJFEIQtCNgpMqEhf908gY8mMryLulKlZ0lV7CtSlgPaByTKCrupLdrM-XAh9qA/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjwhZO4LiI_6jaCfLKf_P50Ox87sqpONJGQibiWIJ4USrEYKDBOc5tB9G9_nfSB7r9brhRL8jov-ixAZNJFEIQtCNgpMqEhf908gY8mMryLulKlZ0lV7CtSlgPaByTKCrupLdrM-XAh9qA/w400-h300/IMG_1860.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">During a Sycamore Rim run</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As the semester ended, we found ourselves facing another dilemma. Our apartment lease would expire in July, and we really wanted to buy a house, but it just seemed like such a daunting endeavor, especially during a pandemic. Would we have to tour a home virtually? We knew the housing market in Flagstaff wasn't going to wait for us and prices would continue to climb quickly. If we were going to get a place we could afford, we'd have to act quickly. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Through some serendipity, we managed to connect with an incredible agent who helped us quickly navigate a difficult housing landscape, made even more difficult by a global pandemic. After viewing many properties, with nothing "clicking", and feeling overwhelmed and burnt out by the process, we were ready to give up and re-sign our apartment lease. But at the last moment, we came across a property that was for sale by the owner. We quickly set up a viewing, and decisions had to be made immediately. Needless to say, we pulled the trigger quickly (with a few stomach knots and general nausea thrown in) and managed to secure a bid that was accepted! We feel so fortunate at how everything transpired and do love our new little home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-kqVZup2XzlfsrjEiTnKt7E6lcWs1oXG_M3brKzDFQuj4aqlWYc8T6Hq_yEsZh_4-bo3h755g77LObRRnzdEd3hjpXL2XrR3QWJVTB3aRf1IoNE_ekH2zXGBITumMDDedLXfTylGl7our/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-kqVZup2XzlfsrjEiTnKt7E6lcWs1oXG_M3brKzDFQuj4aqlWYc8T6Hq_yEsZh_4-bo3h755g77LObRRnzdEd3hjpXL2XrR3QWJVTB3aRf1IoNE_ekH2zXGBITumMDDedLXfTylGl7our/" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our new home...and....our first home.</div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">As May turned to June...and then to July, we began frantically packing and prepping for our big move. During this time, we also learned that our University would not be renewing contracts for over 100 non-tenured faculty. This was going to cause so many problems both within our department, and across the entire school.....nevermind so many of our new friends would now be unemployed. Well we did what any good colleague would do. We protested internally and on City Hall...calling for jobs not be cut. Unfortunately, no matter how much we protested, it made little difference and to this day we are still woefully understaffed at the University. The one beacon of hope that we all see, is that our very-disliked university president just announced that she is stepping down. With a new administration coming to the campus, the universal hope is that some positive changes will come with that transition.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheXSveHciiv64byB4lMHqoqCUKLQDHb3GxQ3wU8TOfrXh6QC7mtnoZorBlC5hC6qhL3aP3G9plfwnocFN2onU214Yso4RPy2hCtKRZQTQPj8IMAjLbLl7dE8qlfiEfLkfzTwt1KRGZrX_u/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheXSveHciiv64byB4lMHqoqCUKLQDHb3GxQ3wU8TOfrXh6QC7mtnoZorBlC5hC6qhL3aP3G9plfwnocFN2onU214Yso4RPy2hCtKRZQTQPj8IMAjLbLl7dE8qlfiEfLkfzTwt1KRGZrX_u/w400-h300/IMG_1930.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Protesting with others on the lawn of City Hall</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">At the beginning of June, C and I decided to take a short (and isolated) camping weekend down to the Mogollon Rim. We wouldn't be using any sort of camper, just the two of us, and our tent. We wouldn't visit any place, just hide in the woods for a few days. It was definitely therapeutic.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5zZDl6IV_ic7GVRZ6YcLemmdGAciMRmv-nHsEcTzicD3SjWuq7c5C1OrsO-CcbV9jYfeVd-LTplgTibOTi4UYCmK3iT5CPCFX36ZF_il3EvdDxQ1JSedbz9px6HK0BxZK2Me26yOcnj_8/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5zZDl6IV_ic7GVRZ6YcLemmdGAciMRmv-nHsEcTzicD3SjWuq7c5C1OrsO-CcbV9jYfeVd-LTplgTibOTi4UYCmK3iT5CPCFX36ZF_il3EvdDxQ1JSedbz9px6HK0BxZK2Me26yOcnj_8/w400-h300/IMG_1935.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A much needed respite along the Mogollon Rim</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4AuGWYm6sORhTNaoLJwzBjWfe8RhQSXhVSEI0hw5d-sS8uhDP8wrj6SpOlVG4R-7f7MfkFO_-1bzzNmMa6uiF0mnnMTk9CIfgQsBBxgW3hFAolwlgGIibNwn9s9YIf7_CaW_UbXMVZgxq/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4AuGWYm6sORhTNaoLJwzBjWfe8RhQSXhVSEI0hw5d-sS8uhDP8wrj6SpOlVG4R-7f7MfkFO_-1bzzNmMa6uiF0mnnMTk9CIfgQsBBxgW3hFAolwlgGIibNwn9s9YIf7_CaW_UbXMVZgxq/w400-h300/IMG_1946.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">View from our campsite</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-dUqotPAk8jjwn8YWC01DH00aj3UoXOErz-DoNAzimlRH2p5YtBg33gP4XjY5EU4E_SbdH680KuPLAhpi0C9hjVWSwivKHYdClVYW0jBNuI-X9cgT7_bME36W_oP1E4aSPa0FlUMmZDa3/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-dUqotPAk8jjwn8YWC01DH00aj3UoXOErz-DoNAzimlRH2p5YtBg33gP4XjY5EU4E_SbdH680KuPLAhpi0C9hjVWSwivKHYdClVYW0jBNuI-X9cgT7_bME36W_oP1E4aSPa0FlUMmZDa3/w400-h300/IMG_1943.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A swing near our campsite</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRKztLpDoWFzQxgHK4uSdSfafKik3CFMznX3ics3OEc4BrdZbYgdnczXooXDXhmkvGIifBB7FbzP6EAfwji8jAx5HmbhSKgoDaMjSBZIQOPWZQAJ1cxxHG0TPPQu4sy9dxVBQjbT81Z0yq/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRKztLpDoWFzQxgHK4uSdSfafKik3CFMznX3ics3OEc4BrdZbYgdnczXooXDXhmkvGIifBB7FbzP6EAfwji8jAx5HmbhSKgoDaMjSBZIQOPWZQAJ1cxxHG0TPPQu4sy9dxVBQjbT81Z0yq/w400-h300/IMG_1940.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">View from the hammock, down the Rim into the valley</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">A couple of weeks later, we were blessed with a very unseasonably cool Monday for the area near the Grand Canyon. I did what any good adventurer would do....and made a quick trip for a Rim2Rim2Rim run. I was a bit undertrained, but the bonus was that the park had only recently re-opened. It was a Monday to boot...so I literally saw almost no one the entire day through both crossings. I wrote about my adventure extensively here:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2020/06/across-ditch-and-back-r2r2r.html">R2R2R: Across the Ditch and Back</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-S3iOZjyp2rQSVjcMadqyDAzywM3K6nm86nBKrCgN3y4fCO5JPA3mZefr26B8CYbZH9pCws6olDCvSkWx6yB7argU9FT4pmqYz_OGBWKDYNLziL6kFneB60eGW0kkyv9LDpyXolDYfzf/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz-S3iOZjyp2rQSVjcMadqyDAzywM3K6nm86nBKrCgN3y4fCO5JPA3mZefr26B8CYbZH9pCws6olDCvSkWx6yB7argU9FT4pmqYz_OGBWKDYNLziL6kFneB60eGW0kkyv9LDpyXolDYfzf/w400-h301/IMG_1954.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At the start of my R2R2R attempt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9k-DXZtxxEwKczwviBF-X4Tc6YUTssc7IW5IYOeheMieXCUvRbFmJgr_acj8YqQWiBMaVdFMdiCLRawWGPMFYxDRtPNjQ78A1xq1lF2nK4i1AWsFa0_afqr1aWyd9uRExP82Rk-RI103Q/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9k-DXZtxxEwKczwviBF-X4Tc6YUTssc7IW5IYOeheMieXCUvRbFmJgr_acj8YqQWiBMaVdFMdiCLRawWGPMFYxDRtPNjQ78A1xq1lF2nK4i1AWsFa0_afqr1aWyd9uRExP82Rk-RI103Q/w400-h300/IMG_1955.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">First major vista at Ooh Aah Point</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMLJseIVoxui-wZHuc-sJIVkunXzy7pTVIr2ybWo8N7vhTl7qMXimpRAlS5Y1SJALjgjkMUcTSTSRAMeXWWMHfiKdh22VMv8d007UGDSwsxWjMe_26QTsZvhxj3pe1czLdX7dwXyPYTvt/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMLJseIVoxui-wZHuc-sJIVkunXzy7pTVIr2ybWo8N7vhTl7qMXimpRAlS5Y1SJALjgjkMUcTSTSRAMeXWWMHfiKdh22VMv8d007UGDSwsxWjMe_26QTsZvhxj3pe1czLdX7dwXyPYTvt/w400-h300/IMG_1956.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">About half-way down the Kaibab Trail to the river</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQOFUUl58Ywl6pdLlxg_HVOHZE1Tvm9GEQO60XFuzCxPJzc6a5YtjftjqxIcfXIeLmbY_Nm2MJC8POLjoEqdpJswvPq4IxvcZ_nnCCzvE3E2DiE-tXhUB2gdmMmKR1zyQ6gwwYBX_72_6/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQOFUUl58Ywl6pdLlxg_HVOHZE1Tvm9GEQO60XFuzCxPJzc6a5YtjftjqxIcfXIeLmbY_Nm2MJC8POLjoEqdpJswvPq4IxvcZ_nnCCzvE3E2DiE-tXhUB2gdmMmKR1zyQ6gwwYBX_72_6/w400-h300/IMG_1958.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Nearing the river</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPg3OMWyA0GYPBD1PAQ_6J0ZzhhIjGJiNTw47oH-jIcdEFMkLcNiRYsJZa1rQmu1hv7Fe2Kf8W4Qy1JsQOxNNkN4KKeww5kM1dLkW0tEEiPG-5meyXqNwXwJvs12q9xrt2q3-RF6FMlKJj/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPg3OMWyA0GYPBD1PAQ_6J0ZzhhIjGJiNTw47oH-jIcdEFMkLcNiRYsJZa1rQmu1hv7Fe2Kf8W4Qy1JsQOxNNkN4KKeww5kM1dLkW0tEEiPG-5meyXqNwXwJvs12q9xrt2q3-RF6FMlKJj/w400-h300/IMG_1964.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">About half-way up the North rim</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH0Cmutjnh0_nmrIwp2QkZ1kpL51brG03zYZQSbyAU0ybdFTNrXR4Yz4Q8ileYbeo9RPp8w5YyVK_2JLSJWn-aamslbvfbHqVVU8JRw4Aeg4sbxqE3eJOiI-9rv613fIYimewH1ujMvkQu/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH0Cmutjnh0_nmrIwp2QkZ1kpL51brG03zYZQSbyAU0ybdFTNrXR4Yz4Q8ileYbeo9RPp8w5YyVK_2JLSJWn-aamslbvfbHqVVU8JRw4Aeg4sbxqE3eJOiI-9rv613fIYimewH1ujMvkQu/w400-h301/IMG_1968.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">North Rim at 21 miles...ready to turn around and head back</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqcp1p_D0csf3LRJF6HKkcHCLM89NSmuByVBfM-NVXWYGoObUIUEeAUH3P7HYiUIUkTQe3bB6IAre54gnRW1GVpYVsLpA9g-p2CSpNfOZ_zVIdPfgjPK3YwN7R6QQ5gLLzLJKO8_JkF2gQ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqcp1p_D0csf3LRJF6HKkcHCLM89NSmuByVBfM-NVXWYGoObUIUEeAUH3P7HYiUIUkTQe3bB6IAre54gnRW1GVpYVsLpA9g-p2CSpNfOZ_zVIdPfgjPK3YwN7R6QQ5gLLzLJKO8_JkF2gQ/w400-h300/IMG_1972.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Half-way back down the North Rim</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp43f4enLaSIuN2moHaoOkYt94yEGa2UhLhyphenhyphendUugO0bJshFiSbJVaG4NX3Lz2GnDrQuVinTUSOhawjPQjBRgu51MTZOz8PjYLlz6DHB8md0CYtg3x4xfKaScMD4x-aHi9mA2fVmIow59k8/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp43f4enLaSIuN2moHaoOkYt94yEGa2UhLhyphenhyphendUugO0bJshFiSbJVaG4NX3Lz2GnDrQuVinTUSOhawjPQjBRgu51MTZOz8PjYLlz6DHB8md0CYtg3x4xfKaScMD4x-aHi9mA2fVmIow59k8/w400-h300/IMG_1975.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Heading back to my car after completing the R2R2R</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Before our big move at the end of July, we took one more short vacation...this time up to the San Juans of Colorado. I figured with Hardrock being canceled, C and I could still do some backcountry camping up there and explore some trails and mountains. It was a really nice little escape.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGGsWzu1flI0MH1gQRwu19XPhudvevQGjmXmk99WTHIEea-XEbKlo3u_tMsVS7pAqJuArxEoJokEv9gydKMgwtA3usNXlBcbZYB0S6N4b2k3G7UCpWrNWnK9C5sPsAB20S5rCW7TquipZH/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGGsWzu1flI0MH1gQRwu19XPhudvevQGjmXmk99WTHIEea-XEbKlo3u_tMsVS7pAqJuArxEoJokEv9gydKMgwtA3usNXlBcbZYB0S6N4b2k3G7UCpWrNWnK9C5sPsAB20S5rCW7TquipZH/w300-h400/IMG_2022.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Standing on a corner....in Winslow, AZ</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">....it was such a fine sight to see</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisDcKzB_imTYJq87cdCL9gLo_YFVonI7FivxY_oA72tkUs5mvjkIQfhNnT5KaEzeKsIsxEZTfQJvdrjMCHzT-1tZ1IwnMzC-uNE9mPSt7jNt1_vyZ7NlQ_Zaef-h3WHnjNwrjMjUPf_CQs/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisDcKzB_imTYJq87cdCL9gLo_YFVonI7FivxY_oA72tkUs5mvjkIQfhNnT5KaEzeKsIsxEZTfQJvdrjMCHzT-1tZ1IwnMzC-uNE9mPSt7jNt1_vyZ7NlQ_Zaef-h3WHnjNwrjMjUPf_CQs/w400-h300/IMG_2026.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our hidden little backcountry site in Colorado</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2SYVkQYvn3Gp9uV-OWiqy1IumMGNzeyD4BwYfP6fkH_aoxS820pbz9vNQlGBoUyiyN66IXtnAQAf6ychc5AbMU0e2zGHwJTyLZ5SVgKgSbXrMSSULXLSW_6fEZWIcipGT2cc4iHNULzy/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB2SYVkQYvn3Gp9uV-OWiqy1IumMGNzeyD4BwYfP6fkH_aoxS820pbz9vNQlGBoUyiyN66IXtnAQAf6ychc5AbMU0e2zGHwJTyLZ5SVgKgSbXrMSSULXLSW_6fEZWIcipGT2cc4iHNULzy/w400-h300/IMG_2029.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hiking near Hermosa Creek</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsakk480QH67PZ0LY0mDYocbU8V8BbcCJ6LqvBXyOkqWY_vL-AxI0GoxVjdr1a9x8PLmYtA0D_Z0UP11PUnAn6ibVFj0K-8XXh9loRU8waUAS0iMPqeg2vlG3GHVh96o1l24LAbWagMV6I/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsakk480QH67PZ0LY0mDYocbU8V8BbcCJ6LqvBXyOkqWY_vL-AxI0GoxVjdr1a9x8PLmYtA0D_Z0UP11PUnAn6ibVFj0K-8XXh9loRU8waUAS0iMPqeg2vlG3GHVh96o1l24LAbWagMV6I/w300-h400/IMG_2035.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hiking along the Hardrock Course near Cunningham</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWnrTR9B8ggL0TCVPZNGy2spflPHS3_TQ0Aw6MLB_a7OIa_UsBwHFCdqeutDn37plXgvEuL4H-TTpJsoQ9P1R_PnqC9izaxw5USebXjRkwnP4JiQ2sycxI9nUPUf_dWaC8_3INwuFk08i/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWnrTR9B8ggL0TCVPZNGy2spflPHS3_TQ0Aw6MLB_a7OIa_UsBwHFCdqeutDn37plXgvEuL4H-TTpJsoQ9P1R_PnqC9izaxw5USebXjRkwnP4JiQ2sycxI9nUPUf_dWaC8_3INwuFk08i/w400-h300/IMG_2038.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Looking down into Cunningham</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXdReZg1q8KRoCmuHzcbMljLxTnFnocqkc_8PHcsp9UE6Hw_pSkdTqI-6LcKgJocAx8fqfQDZ0llu5P8FrbhSAKwEfY48q5THsflICenoaA_mvhSvl5_4HEMGCqkz4sVVWShPGTFI6D27z/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXdReZg1q8KRoCmuHzcbMljLxTnFnocqkc_8PHcsp9UE6Hw_pSkdTqI-6LcKgJocAx8fqfQDZ0llu5P8FrbhSAKwEfY48q5THsflICenoaA_mvhSvl5_4HEMGCqkz4sVVWShPGTFI6D27z/w400-h300/IMG_2043.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Along the Colorado Trail</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">The big move finally came, and with it the craziness of U-Hauls, dozens of trips to Home Depot, and various other stresses....and strains (both mental and physical). Thankfully, most of it all went off fairly smoothly. One of the first modifications we made to the new home, was installing a cat door into an enclosed litter box in the garage. It felt weird cutting a hole in our new wall after having only just moved in. But, the solution worked out swimmingly!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdWkVHeH2MA7nwuOg1IXI-MtBLnDermvlogMgvyNtEcdPDCUwuKv5wxgE05oWJnspi0V5rfskhODvKUXhw3X8mmhWJ48MUnXvQhGGk7WUxpWHb-lEjUCwEikB6pJolWoVAl6FkHewecWsV/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdWkVHeH2MA7nwuOg1IXI-MtBLnDermvlogMgvyNtEcdPDCUwuKv5wxgE05oWJnspi0V5rfskhODvKUXhw3X8mmhWJ48MUnXvQhGGk7WUxpWHb-lEjUCwEikB6pJolWoVAl6FkHewecWsV/w400-h300/IMG_2181.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Empty Apartments</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu3o-xoYC3PcucLl-I6F4E0S5Hq1r4YlWynVegJQcrlQbVZL5gWv2cbg0MEJvUjnfXzzSO2y9X73jTBa1MqKiJxhdgGp31ckaikiH__0UT6C1lNUHF6qyoBD4vNaZ1JmOKzN-yrhiyXmYJ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu3o-xoYC3PcucLl-I6F4E0S5Hq1r4YlWynVegJQcrlQbVZL5gWv2cbg0MEJvUjnfXzzSO2y9X73jTBa1MqKiJxhdgGp31ckaikiH__0UT6C1lNUHF6qyoBD4vNaZ1JmOKzN-yrhiyXmYJ/w400-h300/IMG_2155.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Uhaul Rentals</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgTejSiayvNO45JZWtm84axvhXqYWI2Zh2O43bEbO-IP0JPNCYtOSAxi3aM4kMK0JGWqCqMVR_PRKH6cuqNOMktYOLXipT301fvo1YumIt2VrD-mQ8xVJbrZSDuahN_hTedsE24vSC8Hm/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFgTejSiayvNO45JZWtm84axvhXqYWI2Zh2O43bEbO-IP0JPNCYtOSAxi3aM4kMK0JGWqCqMVR_PRKH6cuqNOMktYOLXipT301fvo1YumIt2VrD-mQ8xVJbrZSDuahN_hTedsE24vSC8Hm/w400-h300/IMG_2085.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Installing LED lightbulbs in the new House</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6WUxVN8qRDh8jw4vzXDyIwKB-y885QBI_hU-z93-4ikb8iqtRrnBYIn8kLcS9PFRMe5Zwdd7_LrVOhq_6MomlkpMQlZ0xLBOZv5-QFW9JUnA8lvactoN6Bak6ztjJO4P0aT6HoKlsHd8/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6WUxVN8qRDh8jw4vzXDyIwKB-y885QBI_hU-z93-4ikb8iqtRrnBYIn8kLcS9PFRMe5Zwdd7_LrVOhq_6MomlkpMQlZ0xLBOZv5-QFW9JUnA8lvactoN6Bak6ztjJO4P0aT6HoKlsHd8/w300-h400/IMG_2234.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Garage wall before....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wndJaLgbrJlP3xv9fYMn31pBXunVF3ZgdJ8SFqNUyBrPY0ZTBcIC9C5Awp1C0ZBg2wXIaz8ucJOezjAZRFy9RIzduqK9QOy-npQZfzkHsUkCgm0QG6oJ9c0GSWgcdFIRSa58oTEKx-nZ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wndJaLgbrJlP3xv9fYMn31pBXunVF3ZgdJ8SFqNUyBrPY0ZTBcIC9C5Awp1C0ZBg2wXIaz8ucJOezjAZRFy9RIzduqK9QOy-npQZfzkHsUkCgm0QG6oJ9c0GSWgcdFIRSa58oTEKx-nZ/w300-h400/IMG_2237.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Garage wall after...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqULyQ5VxpU12VQuUeIYt9ejO1jjhDG819-LHUAPNDH7MIU9YOv7Ik-WXnkllzfD0LF1kwgwjH39E_6rvXW3AK2lMd-hIXVlCtlo6T4qkuk_JqcEOyYsg8nEsdg1CvQcRlOKYWtIFp9sJy/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqULyQ5VxpU12VQuUeIYt9ejO1jjhDG819-LHUAPNDH7MIU9YOv7Ik-WXnkllzfD0LF1kwgwjH39E_6rvXW3AK2lMd-hIXVlCtlo6T4qkuk_JqcEOyYsg8nEsdg1CvQcRlOKYWtIFp9sJy/w300-h400/IMG_2266.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Completed cat bathroom</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMuoOz-7j_zI2iPGvrKZE8GjWv3srBg8KLZVO2SiP-Sstq5C79ikrTuDQgbyhlP8ZTAMIk7KT5p0X2uooUrrpqqBGOqoesE1paLzwEncbkgQp-WuUrJt8U2zZXXZDAgZFCXnuJEdGBgC2/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMuoOz-7j_zI2iPGvrKZE8GjWv3srBg8KLZVO2SiP-Sstq5C79ikrTuDQgbyhlP8ZTAMIk7KT5p0X2uooUrrpqqBGOqoesE1paLzwEncbkgQp-WuUrJt8U2zZXXZDAgZFCXnuJEdGBgC2/w400-h300/IMG_2297.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Covered and inconspicuous</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">I made a quick trip down to Sedona in Late August to visit with fellow Barkley runner Nick Hollon (now "de la Rosa") and his wife Jade. He showed me some of his favorite trails. We had a splendid time...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg9SmDRvIL7I-A-GnAuNQxzAUSLZABDdXU1lZn4Gr15sOs_etxU3HZvYQvY_u-zrH0aBQCf45E0gpoFJCnriToX6comAQ7SvZY5dWDvhkQ2TsWsKPNqT3KxqPenS2ft12KFJslDGd44xuf/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg9SmDRvIL7I-A-GnAuNQxzAUSLZABDdXU1lZn4Gr15sOs_etxU3HZvYQvY_u-zrH0aBQCf45E0gpoFJCnriToX6comAQ7SvZY5dWDvhkQ2TsWsKPNqT3KxqPenS2ft12KFJslDGd44xuf/w400-h300/IMG_2328.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Enjoying Sedona</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtM_u3ukg0-vufkaATt5FAHVq7TSfk_DPWSw8py5dR-slANWBUMEMizb-kKW6sZGODejI-CAxxlO-Xhnx7iOvw0hbcy4IAtlf8IexgWF9bSlpgyou4kbPS58fAlat0FuTDNeaFfWYHcC4X/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtM_u3ukg0-vufkaATt5FAHVq7TSfk_DPWSw8py5dR-slANWBUMEMizb-kKW6sZGODejI-CAxxlO-Xhnx7iOvw0hbcy4IAtlf8IexgWF9bSlpgyou4kbPS58fAlat0FuTDNeaFfWYHcC4X/w300-h400/IMG_2323.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Elephant Rock</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwE152dDzrD5GuuECoinJ9TDf-MYCa5VX3xQMBjPRmse0rTV3bAnuT4jJtMz-CVrlGxlEcGLafdPQYR2Zs1_tT_Am7JSykmJbaB4mFmHjrgUnAzJPCciy2FBwsJk7SYesxp6sbml0OKDI/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwE152dDzrD5GuuECoinJ9TDf-MYCa5VX3xQMBjPRmse0rTV3bAnuT4jJtMz-CVrlGxlEcGLafdPQYR2Zs1_tT_Am7JSykmJbaB4mFmHjrgUnAzJPCciy2FBwsJk7SYesxp6sbml0OKDI/w300-h400/IMG_2332.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Nick, Jade, and I having some fun</div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNV_7imG5H2fGTPCMmEchYQzBSxMObB1Lj9u2GMCC1C3YjZDJJF6ZLxtJ-WQcpELmhqD-B7MQWEbFyD0dk4_P7m6uQWUhzGDp2asrSZ0WLGHlPgKN0fhs84nAe6er8tnrBt3XkWiT_11Fv/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNV_7imG5H2fGTPCMmEchYQzBSxMObB1Lj9u2GMCC1C3YjZDJJF6ZLxtJ-WQcpELmhqD-B7MQWEbFyD0dk4_P7m6uQWUhzGDp2asrSZ0WLGHlPgKN0fhs84nAe6er8tnrBt3XkWiT_11Fv/w300-h400/IMG_2333.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Climbing some of Sedona's famous red rock</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">....But then something happened which C and I weren't anticipating. After a whimsical trip to a local animal shelter to get in some fun cuddle time with a few pups....well.....we came home with one. We realized with a new house, and a new enclosed backyard, we could finally realize our dream of owning a dog. So, on September 1st, we welcomed Molly into our lives. For the first few weeks it was a struggle. She was very needy and scared. We don't know her full history, but we do know that she was about 1 year old when we adopted her, and that she was a Rez dog. Over time, she eventually warmed up to us and we are now completely inseparable. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZrkliDRjc2tJQa_PINoZOr-CZwxjlE_PLO3pz-uhjOCYMznFF6RGfG8c0Ze7z403CmcWlKBh_U7VT_CqzE2NM2FpNssRfbPV6febRDlmp2Vrs-3vGI1XtXvV-EmOMycEJt1MNQAd2YpDR/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZrkliDRjc2tJQa_PINoZOr-CZwxjlE_PLO3pz-uhjOCYMznFF6RGfG8c0Ze7z403CmcWlKBh_U7VT_CqzE2NM2FpNssRfbPV6febRDlmp2Vrs-3vGI1XtXvV-EmOMycEJt1MNQAd2YpDR/w300-h400/IMG_2339.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The day we adopted Molly (pic taken at the shelter)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMSb0Cb1tSrQkmcSoF3khlXq1ldgNwjL1Qs8HRuX5upoeSAqCdfNwjF_6HroFgBY7XetNJiSGsU2zILfXUYToKGKlnwCUvDWMrw43Mew20pEarYybukQU4zDnbabj13J7SKrnLQNqzFYkJ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMSb0Cb1tSrQkmcSoF3khlXq1ldgNwjL1Qs8HRuX5upoeSAqCdfNwjF_6HroFgBY7XetNJiSGsU2zILfXUYToKGKlnwCUvDWMrw43Mew20pEarYybukQU4zDnbabj13J7SKrnLQNqzFYkJ/w300-h400/IMG_2378.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Molly a few weeks after we adpoted her....what a ham</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSso9lPTmzom7Ae6lZAsKN-RpYRcaqyL_XJgZiNzyn2JVBWzjZrSqdZpALBUX3vq_F1VdS0oqcDAYEj8y0YzECFybA56UwYlbqiQx56W08TL1NqI_toudc0gZiZ4mN3wOKuXQKZLMJghsM/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSso9lPTmzom7Ae6lZAsKN-RpYRcaqyL_XJgZiNzyn2JVBWzjZrSqdZpALBUX3vq_F1VdS0oqcDAYEj8y0YzECFybA56UwYlbqiQx56W08TL1NqI_toudc0gZiZ4mN3wOKuXQKZLMJghsM/w300-h400/IMG_2502.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Molly last week. I mean...c'mon. Just look at that face!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Fall semester began, and with a new large cohort of students coming in the Climate Science graduate program here at NAU. I prepped and began teaching a new class in Climate Science Mitigation which included a large tree-planting group effort. It was a bit difficult to organize during a pandemic, with covid tests, social distancing, and masking...but we made it work safely and successfully and planted over 200 Ponderosa Pine trees.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL6Vfn5M3Z67vCGsiNW9dNVJIXDxBuzeLD8FkDI7i_HGo1iJ8WXrfkSfKpnp7uqq1_Ohota39vrf76zTwLR2pNAj8yxeL_a966VS4PafAaCZtxdNhGwnGW6kAV_12fsKyJmHdiROF6xV6T/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL6Vfn5M3Z67vCGsiNW9dNVJIXDxBuzeLD8FkDI7i_HGo1iJ8WXrfkSfKpnp7uqq1_Ohota39vrf76zTwLR2pNAj8yxeL_a966VS4PafAaCZtxdNhGwnGW6kAV_12fsKyJmHdiROF6xV6T/w400-h300/IMG_2426.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Students prepping for planting</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzZTBtnMo7YWLjUNpnQCSdn3l4nM3jBiP210AljTtSY-KPFVzmUEBAHGf_BihPzJiiKoYsn5MmJMko3tPVsrNPzirXGHAv2OAROy33hyphenhyphenxZok1ES51j-mrdb2IqIv6gSUvk0I5yOX1h_ko/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqzZTBtnMo7YWLjUNpnQCSdn3l4nM3jBiP210AljTtSY-KPFVzmUEBAHGf_BihPzJiiKoYsn5MmJMko3tPVsrNPzirXGHAv2OAROy33hyphenhyphenxZok1ES51j-mrdb2IqIv6gSUvk0I5yOX1h_ko/w300-h400/IMG_2428.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Your's truly proudly displaying my first planted tree</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV3rSIKMprs2hG-NzxdBZ_YNFz4WBJgoj3B3LThhvPylfUpQs7OOwPSGn3DxsbanBxxN4pqTxD3BkONb1BAYGBJ4VYFxD_JSMRXdXM5edx_Imq-UON_zMqyWrUWDEs_QFb95jxz5g83Qol/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV3rSIKMprs2hG-NzxdBZ_YNFz4WBJgoj3B3LThhvPylfUpQs7OOwPSGn3DxsbanBxxN4pqTxD3BkONb1BAYGBJ4VYFxD_JSMRXdXM5edx_Imq-UON_zMqyWrUWDEs_QFb95jxz5g83Qol/w400-h300/IMG_2434.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our finished plot of over 200 trees, with our weather station recording data</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In mid-September, I managed to still run the "Boston Marathon"....virtually. I got a bib number, plotted a 13-mile out-n-back along Lake Mary Road, and ran by myself for over 4 slow hours. Along the way I managed to video chat a couple times with my good friend back in Boston (who I was planning to run with during the actual race). It was nice to run "with" her, even if only virtually. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The semester progressed in somewhat of a blur. We continued to grow plants, I made another trip to the Grand Canyon...this time with some students, and my grad students moved on to working with elementary school classrooms on outreach projects. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/4016644068">Boston Marathon on Strava</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ8P0tdszw3f3AzWDNWUfhVhV8XQRsjxGTBrba961s4suNWE41U7uJpULx5VJ0LmXy_WgtVJcmZbOW2aXj12TQLLRHFPvfifz7V89JNDtr7W6cbljsq-D0lgRJPx7G-Db-fWg2IzmHDv5w/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ8P0tdszw3f3AzWDNWUfhVhV8XQRsjxGTBrba961s4suNWE41U7uJpULx5VJ0LmXy_WgtVJcmZbOW2aXj12TQLLRHFPvfifz7V89JNDtr7W6cbljsq-D0lgRJPx7G-Db-fWg2IzmHDv5w/" width="399" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My bib number during my "Boston Marathon"</div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5sDbMJDxWDvIFiL60vmQTdsSREDUmyqKHcuMAFNr5FEPWQz9VxPq9w3pF0pvXdkR2Z3v-YGwhlx4JtRR4uxGMDDqCSA_oMMOE78vhogZvaxzoTdrMGXoHEK5fXH7alZDfm7BkQn__Z1MO/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5sDbMJDxWDvIFiL60vmQTdsSREDUmyqKHcuMAFNr5FEPWQz9VxPq9w3pF0pvXdkR2Z3v-YGwhlx4JtRR4uxGMDDqCSA_oMMOE78vhogZvaxzoTdrMGXoHEK5fXH7alZDfm7BkQn__Z1MO/" width="399" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">At the Finish Line of the Boston Marathon (C printed this out and put it on our door!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0zuoj5yEIBnGOSGE2qq2-EE98A0qcAPmlfLiL3cgUAlrR1dNHT56Ovg_mbOUcD5c0bwQ2f90YlSME9dpntWjf-V54balumgmMLELuxRqPeuUZAF_gkoUU4ki4ReVuowXHUBvQosf8rJ_t/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0zuoj5yEIBnGOSGE2qq2-EE98A0qcAPmlfLiL3cgUAlrR1dNHT56Ovg_mbOUcD5c0bwQ2f90YlSME9dpntWjf-V54balumgmMLELuxRqPeuUZAF_gkoUU4ki4ReVuowXHUBvQosf8rJ_t/w300-h400/IMG_2505.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tomatoes!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyxDycCuxlsWAppkU-QuWCKiXdup9BhzS9D3CaFNdZjGOzW1UQ67GTM6aDV8_IfsqJJ7B6NsB4tlbSt4WE0w71CCK15cme_5tMZsfbTgg1tRElpE6CKsNeia0t2GIMFp1OZ0NgtDq0Tk-/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyxDycCuxlsWAppkU-QuWCKiXdup9BhzS9D3CaFNdZjGOzW1UQ67GTM6aDV8_IfsqJJ7B6NsB4tlbSt4WE0w71CCK15cme_5tMZsfbTgg1tRElpE6CKsNeia0t2GIMFp1OZ0NgtDq0Tk-/w400-h300/62458934908__B986AE89-976E-4A45-AE9F-3F26B4EEE926.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">North Rim Camping with students</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXzn1seZixPsS4H0DYttZvQiAcy6NR-B-zrgANYZirgVItm_sRc8KjA9AWVi1HBmGF2l_tCMOn6s3yD4K45lyvrTCfWgvfbb3YNCxLMb7lUhfXer03gBm7pQNX_f63-FNeoXBcnqQkuj9U/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXzn1seZixPsS4H0DYttZvQiAcy6NR-B-zrgANYZirgVItm_sRc8KjA9AWVi1HBmGF2l_tCMOn6s3yD4K45lyvrTCfWgvfbb3YNCxLMb7lUhfXer03gBm7pQNX_f63-FNeoXBcnqQkuj9U/w400-h300/IMG_2518.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Rim 2 Rim (one-way) with some students</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNmZv3hflgqn-E-OwvGZ5vjZzEwGcaYSIj7KUB009IsJIPbIZ2oB7grDKy82lAgy9j9NijxChBoBLJbWUyi2Sw3t_T7nnQpCVddbof6FDTtx1ErIJT6pmYiDYQv31VA87Yri3tWxUSUXtJ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNmZv3hflgqn-E-OwvGZ5vjZzEwGcaYSIj7KUB009IsJIPbIZ2oB7grDKy82lAgy9j9NijxChBoBLJbWUyi2Sw3t_T7nnQpCVddbof6FDTtx1ErIJT6pmYiDYQv31VA87Yri3tWxUSUXtJ/w400-h300/IMG_2523.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Climbing up from the river on the Kaibab trail on the South Rim</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But then...something else happened that I wasn't anticipating. After much research, and almost a 15-year wait, I finally bought myself a small adventure dual-sport motorcycle. I ended up buying a 2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan (single cylinder, 411cc) after much internal debate and vacillation. I wrote all about my multi-year interest in this pursuit, as well as the eventual purchase here:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2020/11/a-long-overdue-new-portal-to-adventure.html">A Long Overdue Portal to Adventure</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In the two months that followed, I have been out on dozens of adventures and covered more than 1300 miles on two wheels exploring various backgrounds and trails in and around Flagstaff. It has been just as fun and soul nourishing as I had hoped. I cannot wait for more-involved adventures next Summer up in the San Juans of Colorado that will undoubtedly involve camping and 14er summiting. I have a full list of upgrades and gear that I plan to outfit the bike with in an effort to prep it for some multi-day camping/adventuring trips next Summer. My skin tingles just thinking about it. I've even managed to record a few youtube videos of my recent adventures.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnLVe2Eif72urWojHueqBolbiNbclkSOFUw4ZvkAwieqWe_5t9q7GlQxFev-wsPIhjd03uedwMf8mW5SAeQtr4btbSmbFqaTdwacdwyE2hlN4cGD6pF8BxNfvwtDQX0TeC6-FHcKWiUP1/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnLVe2Eif72urWojHueqBolbiNbclkSOFUw4ZvkAwieqWe_5t9q7GlQxFev-wsPIhjd03uedwMf8mW5SAeQtr4btbSmbFqaTdwacdwyE2hlN4cGD6pF8BxNfvwtDQX0TeC6-FHcKWiUP1/w400-h300/IMG_2536.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The day I picked up my bike, after just a few dozens miles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfrlYrjNfbgz-G4aa28c_Itu7TtOcT2i3vsaWTRFOJb1mkE-AoPDTHwUBEphndbSZbV0286ZhraxPipH3lZr-1UuHFEzYpJavQVbWdgfBHDb0mv6zMvWlawYUxPQ0LHW4qrLBuxelP7CoC/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfrlYrjNfbgz-G4aa28c_Itu7TtOcT2i3vsaWTRFOJb1mkE-AoPDTHwUBEphndbSZbV0286ZhraxPipH3lZr-1UuHFEzYpJavQVbWdgfBHDb0mv6zMvWlawYUxPQ0LHW4qrLBuxelP7CoC/w400-h300/IMG_0078.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On a trip up near the Arizona Trail outside Flagstaff</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02n1eCOZuN3bFYz72LD5Rxr3f0LpImNPzKCmeeEQZhPaZPULAsaxZWxleObqwC2ASJeJN_o6sXScMRsI-Z2pi5Brd_Pl6QGfYPAud8tIn0eZtJ-CvV4VS5p_-tq-UrWKUpRRokSk2Db1p/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02n1eCOZuN3bFYz72LD5Rxr3f0LpImNPzKCmeeEQZhPaZPULAsaxZWxleObqwC2ASJeJN_o6sXScMRsI-Z2pi5Brd_Pl6QGfYPAud8tIn0eZtJ-CvV4VS5p_-tq-UrWKUpRRokSk2Db1p/w400-h301/IMG_0037.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Before my trip down to Sedona and the infamous Schnebly Hill Road</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="295" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BYAna2WVYjQ" width="484" youtube-src-id="BYAna2WVYjQ"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Youtube clip from Schnebly Hill Rd</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ral7zksNfxY" width="483" youtube-src-id="Ral7zksNfxY"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Youtube clip from Sunset Crater Loop</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Over Thanksgiving break, C and I took a socially distanced trip to visit with her sister (after negative covid tests of course), and it was nice to spend some time on trails and let our doggos play. It was the first time Molly has been around another dog for more than 20 minutes at the dog park. We learned quickly that she likes to play....and never gets tired.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPqGfrJgE5ap5dOI37PBMa81-shjogR9IAkbxCwZQp5uV-sHxppqKvEGlteYTtFINJOxIM5XHqMGtq-QuRRAMB7_cg6DV0G32LqQ8t83nikzTVPQrU4fJ9V9jJV0uLvS14kxbV7abO5yF1/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPqGfrJgE5ap5dOI37PBMa81-shjogR9IAkbxCwZQp5uV-sHxppqKvEGlteYTtFINJOxIM5XHqMGtq-QuRRAMB7_cg6DV0G32LqQ8t83nikzTVPQrU4fJ9V9jJV0uLvS14kxbV7abO5yF1/w400-h300/IMG_0097.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Molly and Quinn playing by the river near Lake Isabella, CA</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwMSzZyW_2-mhhanWwj0kTqFSsaoJ9EipmFpn4vQYYV7sOxBv0O4yqWCjsC7MVjKX9l0UVcMe6aDR711gkUvXCKCTipftBtgM-W7OYmDKlTqeT5bQzj0sWctB8iD0qVk_-oV1C6zn0g3Xi/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwMSzZyW_2-mhhanWwj0kTqFSsaoJ9EipmFpn4vQYYV7sOxBv0O4yqWCjsC7MVjKX9l0UVcMe6aDR711gkUvXCKCTipftBtgM-W7OYmDKlTqeT5bQzj0sWctB8iD0qVk_-oV1C6zn0g3Xi/w400-h300/IMG_0100.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Molly experiencing a flowing creek for the first time</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8AiBK5KwyclYTcN4GfQrugypyKzFVKEeoscZvyWU7qWhomKNXXWuhPbqtR0CFZcYdfPkoU7QEp9U1kRpr_V_ho1FDMfQUPi3li6_7jZcjswh58Yh7izjphSF0lKb-8QywaZvIkiYC7aP/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH8AiBK5KwyclYTcN4GfQrugypyKzFVKEeoscZvyWU7qWhomKNXXWuhPbqtR0CFZcYdfPkoU7QEp9U1kRpr_V_ho1FDMfQUPi3li6_7jZcjswh58Yh7izjphSF0lKb-8QywaZvIkiYC7aP/w400-h300/IMG_0106.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A beautiful and stress free hike after a taxing semester</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyMQbIMm-xRtNhSoJdnHV7OS-g4L66XRtlsVT36dWuoAHgyJW8oVF37T9epEb8XETfex90pM_sLWew0zC1H2EFbkGjso2cniHQFZV9_yZa7Ja5aSWMRofHAp08WfWUM2ynKhyQ5vYWeJ6/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyMQbIMm-xRtNhSoJdnHV7OS-g4L66XRtlsVT36dWuoAHgyJW8oVF37T9epEb8XETfex90pM_sLWew0zC1H2EFbkGjso2cniHQFZV9_yZa7Ja5aSWMRofHAp08WfWUM2ynKhyQ5vYWeJ6/w400-h300/IMG_0116.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On a soothing trail run in CA</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In November, my birthday came and went, as did our National Election. As I sit here today on Jan 5th, our current president has still refused to accept the outcome of said election, or to concede. Not that it's any surprise at all given the character of the man. Once December rolled in, all thoughts shifted to Christmas, and to prepping for the looming Spring semester. C's sister would be coming to stay with us for a couple weeks over the break, and again bringing her dog (Quinn). We were excited to share our new home with family (since we wouldn't be making our normal excursion to Florida to visit with everyone). Over the past few weeks, we witnessed an amazing celestial conjunction between Jupiter and Saturn, visited several parks and monuments, and had a lot of fun cooking new meals. We even completed a couple of fun puzzles together. All in all...not a bad way to end a rather difficult year.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWaMv0QacV4sMvSyUqzuww5rmoTqgL0mxa7zokARHxKMSEWse9itzh1luJRL56fuCMFhCa2tDu3whgbevAh5jw60xr28abIZGiDHaaBWeC7JgJaQqjmyg_ZLHYkuh87uG85TWidNkkRwS/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWaMv0QacV4sMvSyUqzuww5rmoTqgL0mxa7zokARHxKMSEWse9itzh1luJRL56fuCMFhCa2tDu3whgbevAh5jw60xr28abIZGiDHaaBWeC7JgJaQqjmyg_ZLHYkuh87uG85TWidNkkRwS/w400-h300/IMG_0309.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Our Christmas set up</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvWumaybe-IbVAMjo3JlVL443vCmQwvg_KTXjcaEGceTEFgovDl8cCEsNn0KInh1x4MF8NNVufjPa-9FQiVrKC-r1hTtd2odPVXJ3CDP2hVUS5D9c0K1GJ7QblJyNtNRWvOJOzRCva4czf/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvWumaybe-IbVAMjo3JlVL443vCmQwvg_KTXjcaEGceTEFgovDl8cCEsNn0KInh1x4MF8NNVufjPa-9FQiVrKC-r1hTtd2odPVXJ3CDP2hVUS5D9c0K1GJ7QblJyNtNRWvOJOzRCva4czf/w300-h400/IMG_0206.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My new backyard "beginner" telescope</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPSXck_xzd9vCEMPDy5Dkt4vJRPfrdH5V_CeEZNUHPCKZ_eNbsnXopPVCIK8Ye_dCAUo7uKts5EZZSK0JzejRHIbDzKdwW78nz00o3YNzt6kCW_PKrxY6JLy93UgprILcjQ8WaK4AfYFg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPSXck_xzd9vCEMPDy5Dkt4vJRPfrdH5V_CeEZNUHPCKZ_eNbsnXopPVCIK8Ye_dCAUo7uKts5EZZSK0JzejRHIbDzKdwW78nz00o3YNzt6kCW_PKrxY6JLy93UgprILcjQ8WaK4AfYFg/w400-h300/IMG_0236.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The best I could get with my little scope</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Jupiter and moons on top, Saturn on bottom</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxaTBeJej6TuDInH5c3Ho1PNsQSE8BgPS1QkYUcTe5GF5LmU6mZrqU10r1WRBMbMQ-9gPx9B1iCpcNXRs0uGqSijWjl0l0ivPB6Bw_l3izu6ICQfadv-a9YpHcsqhSSeeQNcPPqXJXB8iq/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxaTBeJej6TuDInH5c3Ho1PNsQSE8BgPS1QkYUcTe5GF5LmU6mZrqU10r1WRBMbMQ-9gPx9B1iCpcNXRs0uGqSijWjl0l0ivPB6Bw_l3izu6ICQfadv-a9YpHcsqhSSeeQNcPPqXJXB8iq/w400-h300/IMG_0320.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another trip to the Grand Canyon</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCtJAZfdPmHR1RdN6qXzj4WJmdGdSCLEBDwDvf4n7Y9v599gzVOvuMMTt1kJxoiZd3cSBUnq_h1A60q7j_srp9cYjoODVmACMitkbB0PhEky47EivEOu-w1341TDORPaSBADchrveASzT5/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCtJAZfdPmHR1RdN6qXzj4WJmdGdSCLEBDwDvf4n7Y9v599gzVOvuMMTt1kJxoiZd3cSBUnq_h1A60q7j_srp9cYjoODVmACMitkbB0PhEky47EivEOu-w1341TDORPaSBADchrveASzT5/w400-h300/IMG_0324.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sunset from the South Rim</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcOsZlOOYOcBfuUKriClFPiNhlGAJBld8rcGjW-19FadyAg1M4w29ezubYYUbs1d9M5mTT4R98An0SZPs8oDTMbC5p1GLkTGqZrecGz8pxFUT2j0_dVn2KlmfqCS8B_s0zPwo1vnSoRAWX/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcOsZlOOYOcBfuUKriClFPiNhlGAJBld8rcGjW-19FadyAg1M4w29ezubYYUbs1d9M5mTT4R98An0SZPs8oDTMbC5p1GLkTGqZrecGz8pxFUT2j0_dVn2KlmfqCS8B_s0zPwo1vnSoRAWX/w300-h400/IMG_0340.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I found a bow on my Himalayan one morning....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Santa must have paid me a visit</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FT7ZCYFQL-g5d8IOe2nmzsvNcIu5tNzP80GPFC2HR4fvrGl-i57CZqHvZPlG2caLLK6bkQuOuNXJ-HKS7XN5K6xVfKpsNx4ckNmkv-qZ9Fq-zV1kpEQELoW3RDDTubpjtS9AfClyXsvs/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FT7ZCYFQL-g5d8IOe2nmzsvNcIu5tNzP80GPFC2HR4fvrGl-i57CZqHvZPlG2caLLK6bkQuOuNXJ-HKS7XN5K6xVfKpsNx4ckNmkv-qZ9Fq-zV1kpEQELoW3RDDTubpjtS9AfClyXsvs/w300-h400/IMG_0342.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Molly very confused and excited about this weird white stuff</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvoxtudgbq9qzEAO9mXGgrimjCnNQriDEHBklAJ20Y_wRGYjH9nHGNLHWdbYV9IViM3JmE9VAZsgkbLRVUZt_S5xh7rWfrmOicwBsQNhevosCiak6wlDvz2iuKxcmd4C5v015o0raMdzx/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvoxtudgbq9qzEAO9mXGgrimjCnNQriDEHBklAJ20Y_wRGYjH9nHGNLHWdbYV9IViM3JmE9VAZsgkbLRVUZt_S5xh7rWfrmOicwBsQNhevosCiak6wlDvz2iuKxcmd4C5v015o0raMdzx/w400-h300/IMG_0344.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">A doggo trip down to Sedona</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfClGiXTkPoTE2Y6GLFWXwBxyrDUaNyaW4LECIux52VMvL5naIyNwLuV1H_08FdaNmRGuAkn5wwuLCHTV57WETWc8rcYKIano_ibOt-mcQupvnKfeTx7Z9xiJmoo6JQXlpfhqOUkxaL2rN/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfClGiXTkPoTE2Y6GLFWXwBxyrDUaNyaW4LECIux52VMvL5naIyNwLuV1H_08FdaNmRGuAkn5wwuLCHTV57WETWc8rcYKIano_ibOt-mcQupvnKfeTx7Z9xiJmoo6JQXlpfhqOUkxaL2rN/w400-h300/IMG_0356.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">1000 pieces of pure enjoyment (well maybe a little frustration too)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The year ended on many positive notes for me. COVID vaccines are rolling out, we have a new federal administration about to take over (one that is much more interested in the impacts of climate change and what we might do about it), and C and I are hopeful for the future. Sure Hardrock was canceled, and I had to postpone many of my anticipated adventures....but I found new adventures on the motorcycle and explored so many new trails on foot. Just this past weekend, I started off my new year as I always do, by completing 1-mile loops as part of my annual CJ's Resolution Revolutions Run. This year I managed only 20 on my very-out-of-shape legs, but was thrilled to have had a beautiful day for the outing. This makes it 8 years in a row now. Not too shabby.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGABW6J4A-my7rYzsnTazu9UGZWIdDERkhUwNx2C63mk2tueySzenvYwhU_nXdAFqY9A3exsJ2oLI2oW-6I6c6yA0io6wt-n2AZ01dybITp7hXcC0ZguivQybmCZp5PNavFLXKploQfIlW/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1539" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGABW6J4A-my7rYzsnTazu9UGZWIdDERkhUwNx2C63mk2tueySzenvYwhU_nXdAFqY9A3exsJ2oLI2oW-6I6c6yA0io6wt-n2AZ01dybITp7hXcC0ZguivQybmCZp5PNavFLXKploQfIlW/w300-h400/IMG_0351.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">About to head out on my 3-hr annual CJ's run</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYouv4fmcZfxs7wPUVpzPWjvJTvqnGHmjpk9ziygDdwzxnKLRfajC4QEAWC4IIt2KhyxPHcwmP-z4-20rIeQ19UEQrePTOFdn4cmGZZM5XzBr7qf0q7WBnk78OlK42BSeJ5CM8neHgpCQf/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1484" data-original-width="2048" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYouv4fmcZfxs7wPUVpzPWjvJTvqnGHmjpk9ziygDdwzxnKLRfajC4QEAWC4IIt2KhyxPHcwmP-z4-20rIeQ19UEQrePTOFdn4cmGZZM5XzBr7qf0q7WBnk78OlK42BSeJ5CM8neHgpCQf/w400-h290/Screen+Shot+2021-01-05+at+1.07.21+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My 20 miles this year </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(my very first loop was a bit longer, hence the extra bubble)</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><br /><div>...and that about wraps it up. 2020 was definitely an interesting and challenging year, but one that I am still grateful for.....on many levels. I am incredibly hopeful for 2021 and the thought at maybe being able to visit with family and friends again. I am also excited for many new adventures as I have quite a few good ideas swirling around in my head...</div>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-13265068415242589952020-11-07T19:44:00.022-05:002020-11-11T22:10:10.509-05:00A Long Overdue New Portal to Adventure<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjZB_hQnhfKOJteEgjgMjVwNdllj4hUlzKobXySZvxt_HNM-DNnIa-bGxKhqhT9KyCnVXYUBywxsfFeToZkbrzNh76yv2rjR6PSIIF2VSM__bD86Bbu19ir6Ap-3X9F-YcM9GN072uXBC/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjZB_hQnhfKOJteEgjgMjVwNdllj4hUlzKobXySZvxt_HNM-DNnIa-bGxKhqhT9KyCnVXYUBywxsfFeToZkbrzNh76yv2rjR6PSIIF2VSM__bD86Bbu19ir6Ap-3X9F-YcM9GN072uXBC/w400-h301/IMG_0037.jpeg" width="400" /></a></p><p style="text-align: left;">Let's go back to the Summer of 2008....</p><p style="text-align: left;">I had just completed my first year of graduate school at Penn State, and was about to take part in my first stint of actual lab work at the National Ice Core Lab (NICL) outside of Denver. While I was prepping for this field work, it occurred to me that I could potentially stay a bit longer than planned in Colorado after my work was completed, and go after a thru-hike of the ~485-mile Colorado Trail. I had wanted to get a taste of true alpine hiking ever since finishing my AT hike the previous summer, and figured this would be a chance to make it a reality. I calculated that if I hiked at a similar pace to my AT hike, I could finish the entire trail in about 3 weeks.</p><p style="text-align: left;">...And so the planning began. I bought the requisite maps, went through scores of online thru-hiking journal entries, and picked up the necessary cold-weather/alpine hiking gear. I was genuinely excited for a true alpine adventure. What I wasn't expecting though was the ridiculous amounts of snow I'd encounter in late-June in Colorado that year.</p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfUEdVmAaBY7VChdC62ElVc7d52Uq-Y8vjaTWjTQ8lGFUxW4D-5PlpR3cxoMXfFuikDJjUdb_1wdyX9FoiGVwLHkmMtta8V5Zl2Lsx_eH3RHTbSg54jMrkd6TmeqKws7LOzug8jt-gufs/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfUEdVmAaBY7VChdC62ElVc7d52Uq-Y8vjaTWjTQ8lGFUxW4D-5PlpR3cxoMXfFuikDJjUdb_1wdyX9FoiGVwLHkmMtta8V5Zl2Lsx_eH3RHTbSg54jMrkd6TmeqKws7LOzug8jt-gufs/w400-h300/IMG_6843.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pulling out an ice core at NICL</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After my 3 weeks of preparing ice-core samples at NICL, I gathered my things together, stored my non-hiking supplies at a friends house, and got a ride to the Waterton Canyon (Northern) CT terminus.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNnllQ2jDYKdXtx0WuBlBQqN6PpyYVL92QOhXsK-p54zFaTsxHA_OXhN6Dqxoh1Ngteb_q8vPJEhNDHmWEos1F574xnfML7vukE9syAUctFL490vwSw1Cg6lw1IRN5RyH-8WrkH0ScG3dJ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNnllQ2jDYKdXtx0WuBlBQqN6PpyYVL92QOhXsK-p54zFaTsxHA_OXhN6Dqxoh1Ngteb_q8vPJEhNDHmWEos1F574xnfML7vukE9syAUctFL490vwSw1Cg6lw1IRN5RyH-8WrkH0ScG3dJ/w400-h300/IMG_1180.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">All of my new CT gear laid out and ready for a hike</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjakfYHigEy5lqfpJ_ffG65tQ9wpcTXLwsYQbswrBN6SmZKekDjdp_bj3tgun1zZq5pQmHvBek_uFx1yJbBDqlckTjRQCXwv6Nu0X1fzGWR6nhoH62HOcMh_UitJsHKISOwuwGnL8PnldfB/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjakfYHigEy5lqfpJ_ffG65tQ9wpcTXLwsYQbswrBN6SmZKekDjdp_bj3tgun1zZq5pQmHvBek_uFx1yJbBDqlckTjRQCXwv6Nu0X1fzGWR6nhoH62HOcMh_UitJsHKISOwuwGnL8PnldfB/w400-h300/IMG_1296.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Day 1 of the CT in 2008</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The hike was absolutely incredible. I experienced true snow field traverses, crazy afternoon thunderstorms, insane amounts of elevation gain, and of course, alpine vistas that brought me to tears. To this day, hiking the CT back in 2008 is still one of the most profound and poignant experiences of my life.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRHh9IYSXTCU4ssMfdUKPkwV9gjtxfU8kwIMZvgjCO8LUZscmgGZZeU8QFHUf1cE_EJ55_xWmRl9ego4Q7PMYVhNibHwyqJ_tMnNc1-AZ5af0Cn17HlQw3yqTq3sVKrqvqLLBFCP_Loc2J/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRHh9IYSXTCU4ssMfdUKPkwV9gjtxfU8kwIMZvgjCO8LUZscmgGZZeU8QFHUf1cE_EJ55_xWmRl9ego4Q7PMYVhNibHwyqJ_tMnNc1-AZ5af0Cn17HlQw3yqTq3sVKrqvqLLBFCP_Loc2J/w400-h300/IMG_1485.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Along the Continental Divide just outside of Silverton CO.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/P48cykAS5h8" width="320" youtube-src-id="P48cykAS5h8"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">CT Thru-Hike Slideshow Video</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As I was making my way through the rugged terrain of Colorado, something interesting happened just a few days from the end of my journey. Something that has stuck with me for over 12 years now.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">About 3 days and 75 miles from the end of my hike, I came to the last trail-town of Silverton. As usual, once in town, I made my way to a local motel, took a long shower, washed my stinky hiking clothes, and eventually made my way to a local restaurant to fill up on as large a meal as possible. By that point, my hiker appetite was ravenous.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I eventually found my way to the restaurant in the Grand Imperial Hotel, where I enjoyed the entire dining area to myself (it was early on a Sunday night). I spent about a half-hour rummaging through my trail guides and maps to see what sort of terrain and trail conditions I might expect during my last three days, when I noticed a very large group of individuals coming in. I had no idea what their group was, but at first glance they all appeared to be a part of some kind of "off-roading" group. Silverton is a known hub for groups looking to explore the famous "Alpine Loop" by ATV or 4x4 Jeeps. These guys were all decked out in padded gear and some had helmets, so I just assumed they came off the loop for some dinner.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But....as they sat down and started talking, I couldn't help but listen in to their conversations. I started hearing really interesting comments like,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="color: #ffa400;">"Remember that time we broke down going across Kazakhstan?" </span></li><li><span style="color: #ffa400;"><br /></span></li><li><span style="color: #ffa400;">"I can still recall getting mugged while making my way through Colombia."</span></li><li><span style="color: #ffa400;"><br /></span></li><li><span style="color: #ffa400;">"How about that flat tire you got while moving across the North Slope of Alaska!"</span></li></ul><div>I was sitting there thinking to myself, whatever these guys are doing, or whatever group this is...it sounds pretty awesome. Here I was thinking that I was rather "adventurous" for having just hiked over 400 miles along a rugged mountain trail in Colorado....but after hearing some of these guys' stories, I couldn't help but be a bit envious. </div><div><br /></div><div>Eventually I scooted my chair over and asked one of the group, "So what's your story? What group are you with?"</div><div><br /></div><div>He went on to tell me that he was part of a worldwide adventure motorcycle touring group called "Horizons Unlimited" and they basically deck out their Adventure motorcycles with full gear (including camping gear, spare parts and equipment, and repair tools), and spend months out of the year traveling. It sounded amazing and I was baffled that I didn't even know that was really a thing.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sure, I had heard of people taking long trips or touring on motorcycles across the country...heck one of my favorite books in High Schools was "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance"....but I guess I just didn't realize there was a sub-group (and sub-culture) of "Adventure Motorcycling". I had heard the term "dual-sport motorcycle" before, but not really "adventure motorcycle".</div><div><br /></div><div>After eating, I went outside to look at some of their setups...and was astounded at some of the bikes and gear they had mounted to them. It was truly a combination of ridiculous and captivating. I reflected on this experience for a moment thinking about how I was there, carrying my entire life on my back, and traveling by foot. And here were these guys, basically following a similar path, but through the use of a very-capable two-wheeled machine, and covering a lot more ground.</div><div><br /></div><div>I spent the last three days of my thru-hike between Silverton and the Southern Terminus in Durango thinking about these guys and the adventures that they've been on. I imagined the things that they must have seen, and experiences they must have had along the way. I told myself at the end of my hike that one day....I wanted to experience a similar kind of adventuring.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVyS5tL1lnKllCDjCI091uHw4PdY6wCNJEFeF697KD5PqbRRIvUQikK8OOuCNbx-qa8c-s-ZoeDZGsbEOm3HKTe02BCN_K3E3qL-Y5W7CUP-xqhqL9ToEp705cFIqg-hPRPALQhDxKb_zg/s1080/011413dda3e5a03ee824156ad5379742.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVyS5tL1lnKllCDjCI091uHw4PdY6wCNJEFeF697KD5PqbRRIvUQikK8OOuCNbx-qa8c-s-ZoeDZGsbEOm3HKTe02BCN_K3E3qL-Y5W7CUP-xqhqL9ToEp705cFIqg-hPRPALQhDxKb_zg/w400-h400/011413dda3e5a03ee824156ad5379742.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Typical "Adventure Motorcycle" Setup</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>But then.....my life went back to graduate school, and the thoughts of adventure motorcycling were shoved back into the deep recesses of my mind...being replaced by thoughts of ice-core climate modeling and glaciology. Days became weeks...weeks became years.</div><div><br /></div><div>Every once in a while I'd see a really nice adventure bike parked somewhere and I smile to myself remembering my Silverton encounter. Occasionally, I'd even spend a few minutes surfing the web for different makes/models of bikes to see what was out there, and the respective price ranges. But nothing ever came of it.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i>PAUSE THIS STORY FOR A SECOND....</i></b></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Let me rewind once again, but this time even further back to 1993. It was the Spring of my Junior year of high school and my dad agreed to let me learn how to ride a motorcycle (after an unhealthy amount of pestering). He himself rode a 1992 Kawasaki Vulcan 750...and was admittedly excited at the prospect teaching me how to ride as well. I remembered taking many trips down to the lake or the ice cream shop in the summers as a kid with my dad...on the back of his motorcycle. So naturally, as a now-spry 16-year old about to start my senior year, I of course was excited about the thought of learning how to ride and get my motorcycle endorsement myself. </div><div><br /></div><div>My dad was very clear however. He told me he would only allow me to learn to ride a motorcycle if:</div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>I bought the bike myself,</li><li>It was under 250cc in size. </li></ol></div><div>So I spent the next few months busting my ass bagging groceries and picking up extra hours at the local supermarket in order to save the several hundred dollars I would need to buy my first beater bike. Once I had a decent amount saved up, we started looking around the classifieds (remember when that was a thing?) to find the perfect "starter bike". My dad warned me...it was not going to be pretty. Functional? Yes. Sexy...hell no.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After a few weeks of searching, we finally stumbled across the absolute gem that was a 185cc, 1978 Honda Twinstar. Let me be clear, this motorcycle was an absolute dinosaur and clunker, and had zero charm or appeal....but I was at peace with that. My dad and I drove out to the next county over and he 'test rode' the bike. I still recall my 6'2" father putting around on what was basically a glorified moped. It was as ridiculous as you could imagine. I ended up buying it and I think my dad rode it home while I drove the car home (I had my drivers license for a few months by then). The very next day started the lessons in the local elementary school parking lot. I distinctly remember the first few lessons....where he didn't even allow me to turn on the motorcycle:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lesson 1....ATGATT (All The Gear, All The Time). We spent over an hour talking about how no matter how far you are going, or the conditions you are in, ALWAYS wear All the protective gear, All the time. Is it 98 degrees out? Want to wear shorts and a t-shirt? Too bad, wear all the gear.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lesson 2....Assume all other vehicles can't or don't see you. I specifically remember him saying "I know they taught you defensive driving in Drivers Ed. Well on a motorcycle, you can be the most defensive driver in the world, and about the best that will do is make for a nice epitaph on your gravestone. You have to be more vigilant than you can imagine...ALWAYS scanning, all the time, and assuming all other vehicles are going to cut you off or pull out in front of you". I remember him asking me after this lesson, "So...do you still want to learn to ride?"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lessons 3-10 included things like how the transmission works (where each gear is and how to get to neutral), how to properly balance the bike while stopped (what feet to put down etc), how to brake properly, how to pick up a tipped over bike properly (without straining your back), how to switch to the reserve gas tank, how to troubleshoot common problems, how to change the spark plug and perform basic maintenance and oil changes, how to practice good habits like turning the engine kill switch to "off" every time you get off the bike, always turning off turn signals after completing turns, performing proper visual scans, etc. It was all a LOT to keep in mind. I recall thinking as a 16-year old, that this is supposed to be "fun" and "cool".... and it's actually a lot of work, and would require an enormous amount of responsibility. The most I ever got to do those first few lessons was sit on the motorcycle while it was turned off. I remember my dad quizzing me and throwing scenarios at me while I sat there to see how I'd respond. At the time, it was frustrating as I just wanted to ride.....but looking back now, I realize now how valuable this type of training and education all was. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I think it wasn't until day 3 or 4 that I actually turned the bike on. Even then, I didn't get to ride it. I simply practiced shifting, stalling, engaging the clutch, etc. Thankfully, I had just learned to also ride a manual transmission car, so at least understood how a manual transmission and clutch worked. I just had to transfer the mechanics of my left foot, to my left hand; and my right hand, to my left foot...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrTWQEgAYanIAiYRf_3CGa1K_6ou6pHYZydcjjdNJNyfqL0TdF4l-Cb_6BE3zJMNVJyPuyHy7rkwy4g3zW4r0423oWbujkgnwgFlDPWu2E0XDdUAONnbjhGXapSHXxW34lGzAzd0NgXHgj/s1066/Screen+Shot+2020-11-07+at+3.05.28+PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="1066" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrTWQEgAYanIAiYRf_3CGa1K_6ou6pHYZydcjjdNJNyfqL0TdF4l-Cb_6BE3zJMNVJyPuyHy7rkwy4g3zW4r0423oWbujkgnwgFlDPWu2E0XDdUAONnbjhGXapSHXxW34lGzAzd0NgXHgj/w400-h297/Screen+Shot+2020-11-07+at+3.05.28+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My glorious first ride: 1978 Honda Twinstar 185cc</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Eventually, I progressed on to actually doing circles around the parking lot, doing figure-8's, taking small trips around the neighborhood, and eventually taking a few longer trips alongside my dad. After a few months of practice, I took my road test and passed thanks to his good training. That winter, I learned how to properly store a bike, and the following Spring and Summer, I got to ride my motorcycle around town and to work every day...enjoying that freedom and enjoyment before going off to college. I sold the old beast before leaving town and never really looked back.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Fast forward to 1998-99. I had just finished college and moved into my first house in Cleveland. I started reminiscing about my old motorcycle and found myself surfing the internet (with my dial-up connection) for any local used bikes. I stumbled across a used 1993 Kawaski Vulcan 750 and was immediately excited at the prospect of riding the same bike that my dad had a few years prior. So in a wild fit of impulsiveness, I went down to the shop that day and bought it. Little did I know that it was WAY too big of a bike for my 5'9", 155lb frame. I rode it around town for a couple of summers, but never really got too excited about it. It was too big, had some electrical issues, and I just wasn't getting out on it enough. Ultimately, I sold it after two years and sort of gave up on motorcycles. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was almost 10 years later that I would have my experience in Silverton meeting the Adventure motorcycling group from Horizons Unlimited.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3E_Q7hTvVEfL456AZ_yqCMkdVnnZjwt7HX9WCjmwAsMqvWz50LVqneh6-LThvg0-XaViDZW2-7mflw4I4NZdHQF7gLzzHWjBOlIN2UHma3m_aesHl9-wbRcassOQRh7_9H2lALQi1Qudg/s1572/Screen+Shot+2020-11-07+at+3.07.25+PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1088" data-original-width="1572" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3E_Q7hTvVEfL456AZ_yqCMkdVnnZjwt7HX9WCjmwAsMqvWz50LVqneh6-LThvg0-XaViDZW2-7mflw4I4NZdHQF7gLzzHWjBOlIN2UHma3m_aesHl9-wbRcassOQRh7_9H2lALQi1Qudg/w400-h276/Screen+Shot+2020-11-07+at+3.07.25+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My 1993 Kawasaki Vulcan</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After almost 8 full years in graduate school pursuing both a Masters and PhD, I had finally graduated and landed a new job at the Cold Regions Research Lab up on the border of NH and VT. In the Spring of 2016, I was driving around rural Vermont, when I came across a guy selling a 125cc scooter at the end of his driveway for 500 bucks. I thought...what the hell. Sure it may be dorky, but it will give me a way to get around town easy, get to work in the Summers, and simply see if I even still enjoy getting around on 2 wheels. Deep in my mind I still found myself thinking about those adventure motorcycles, but honestly wasn't even sure I would still like riding on 2 wheels (especially after my uninspiring time on the Kawasaki Vulcan).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So...for the next 4 years, I found myself touring around the winding backroads of Vermont on my 125cc scooter (affectionately named Scootie McScootface). What I learned from this experience was that I did still absolutely love the freedom of two wheels, and the experience of riding. I didn't care how dorky I looked, I absolutely loved scooting around. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJs4-aRhPbZfXbqxfpdEc54kBQme-Wd7zWphopJFiWg_1HGYoc9RVBx3phmfh7ikFwf4TN7Hr3tKW4dj1HEBMDbGEcaMiAfZ0uRSg1ifRChDcSYWikSSmv18cO19qzn7rJO7A7WaJ4StO/s1182/Screen+Shot+2020-11-07+at+3.04.28+PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1182" data-original-width="1182" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJJs4-aRhPbZfXbqxfpdEc54kBQme-Wd7zWphopJFiWg_1HGYoc9RVBx3phmfh7ikFwf4TN7Hr3tKW4dj1HEBMDbGEcaMiAfZ0uRSg1ifRChDcSYWikSSmv18cO19qzn7rJO7A7WaJ4StO/w400-h400/Screen+Shot+2020-11-07+at+3.04.28+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Scootie McScootface....replete with milk crate</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Rf_Bu9dk6gYMJLbA5kbYpeBF8qzCDVseN7odU-ofOHavS10_-S8eXlcvs_QxjaeHVv_kU4qmDjKMP8JVFSQhbCbmODzN2220YL3XNO9DmjKlAZDKD-oF3nZLrFq5ZDZ06M4ByJOTKDT2/s1190/Screen+Shot+2020-11-07+at+3.04.08+PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1184" data-original-width="1190" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Rf_Bu9dk6gYMJLbA5kbYpeBF8qzCDVseN7odU-ofOHavS10_-S8eXlcvs_QxjaeHVv_kU4qmDjKMP8JVFSQhbCbmODzN2220YL3XNO9DmjKlAZDKD-oF3nZLrFq5ZDZ06M4ByJOTKDT2/w400-h398/Screen+Shot+2020-11-07+at+3.04.08+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Touring around some Vermont back roads.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Last summer (2019), when C and I moved out here to Flagstaff, I strapped Scootie into our moving truck and brought it all the way across the country where I've taken it out on more than 1000 more miles of trips around town. It is a surprisingly effective and efficient way to travel around Flagstaff (especially considering how many sunny days we get).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Something else that I came to appreciate about my time with Scootie, was that it allowed me the opportunity to really "tinker" on motorcycle that wasn't incredibly valuable. In the four years that I have owned Scootie I've learned to clean a carburetor, adjust valves, replace brake pads, change odometer cables, swap out electronics, change fuel filters, replace resistors on dash instruments, replace gear oil, and a whole mess of other maintenance. I think this sort of practice is necessary and invaluable if one ever expects to take long-distance trips by motorcycle. As weird as it sounds too, I also simply found a lot of peaceful enjoyment out of simply working on the bike. I suppose there is a "Zen" to motorcycle maintenance.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i>BUT THEN IT HAPPENED....</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So...now that we're essentially caught up, I can tell you what transpired starting around February of this year. As the COVID-19 pandemic began to reach its first peak, and the realization that we'd be quarantined at home for potentially long periods of time, I found myself finally looking up what types of "Adventure Bikes" were out there. I spent about a solid month really researching what I was hoping would be that Golden Unicorn perfect adventure bike for me. What I learned with the Vulcan, was that it was simply too big and not my style. So I started putting together my "Wish List" that included, preferably:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>300-500 cc (although I'd maybe consider a little bigger if the bike is not too heavy)</li><li>< 400 lbs</li><li>Under $6000-$7000 if possible</li><li>Dual-sport or adventure capable</li><li>Meant for on- AND off-road (and can handle single track and even some technical terrain)</li><li>Decent clearance</li><li>Can carry a lot and/or has panniers</li><li>More of a classic look (no crazy pointy fairings or futuristic plastic bits)</li><li>Nice suspension</li><li>Not too tall (I have a 31-32" inseam and wanted to be able to flat-foot while stopped)</li><li>Probably single cylinder</li><li>Simple machine that I can maintain and service myself (not crazy complicated)</li><li>Nice protection parts and guards</li><li>Good parts availability and aftermarket parts</li><li>Reliable with good reviews</li><li>Switchable ABS</li><li>Has a center stand</li><li>Nice console, dials and readouts (not all - crazy digital)</li></ul><div>So the search was on....</div><div><br /></div><div>I found many bikes that fit many of these conditions....and many that even got somewhat excited about. </div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Let's see. Probably the bike that found its way to the top of my list throughout my searching was the BMW G310-GS, although to be fair, I didn't love it. It was a bit more complicated than I wanted, and definitely more of a sport bike styling. Still, the reviews were excellent, and it was the size and fit I was looking for. I especially liked BMW's bigger bikes like the 800GS, but something that size was just too big, and way too expensive for me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPiIHnoaDulK60Xk9lynCWKXSGHHcwNB13TPpyyih-b_O0k0FNulqxe4hcnI2FdnMFt0vGPeN4P7ytHoNfzQe415eXWAbWhVGfg1ZtrNNu3GSyUKyQZg222Xbg6YGUZ-PRL1D0PL2x4rgK/s780/19-GS-PearlWht.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="780" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPiIHnoaDulK60Xk9lynCWKXSGHHcwNB13TPpyyih-b_O0k0FNulqxe4hcnI2FdnMFt0vGPeN4P7ytHoNfzQe415eXWAbWhVGfg1ZtrNNu3GSyUKyQZg222Xbg6YGUZ-PRL1D0PL2x4rgK/w400-h266/19-GS-PearlWht.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">BMW G310GS</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJwFnlMtqHM4z_80pIyhD1zgr7qBgNkKmiVBnS2lFiX10Y5-TBAE7TdN4g50jOBKryTv_rpMMfX9VB9FfV6nXgr6MUSwmPkXaU8RijYJ1M-lvZgeH3ni-iDgZ093iuZiYfh91zasp9PzG3/s760/5SH56ESC33FEXM3JZH3ELJZAVE.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="570" data-original-width="760" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJwFnlMtqHM4z_80pIyhD1zgr7qBgNkKmiVBnS2lFiX10Y5-TBAE7TdN4g50jOBKryTv_rpMMfX9VB9FfV6nXgr6MUSwmPkXaU8RijYJ1M-lvZgeH3ni-iDgZ093iuZiYfh91zasp9PzG3/w400-h300/5SH56ESC33FEXM3JZH3ELJZAVE.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">BMW F800GS</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also really liked the Suzuki DRZ400, but it was a bit too much dirt-bike for me, and really tall. It got great reviews, and performs amazingly, but it still wasn't really getting me as excited as I wanted.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbsjxC5SvcV6COTz-TpOal561wM-y12uEiqwKNZFwbYjFrCcIPMqQjblCgsbWNo_RY5Fr12sTgHzcI2fJoQi1nS7H2FprmHBJ5A8oFCo8fUkHRnncuaVEMNJmeuL4QP47t-snrdJXOC1ql/s512/unnamed.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="341" data-original-width="512" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbsjxC5SvcV6COTz-TpOal561wM-y12uEiqwKNZFwbYjFrCcIPMqQjblCgsbWNo_RY5Fr12sTgHzcI2fJoQi1nS7H2FprmHBJ5A8oFCo8fUkHRnncuaVEMNJmeuL4QP47t-snrdJXOC1ql/w400-h266/unnamed.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Suzuki DRZ 400</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I went on to research the Kawasaki Versys 300, the Honda CRF250L and Honda CB500X, all great machines, but again, not quite what I was looking for.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYpyHAu4Ym0ZUiLZnlUCMmWLs1DbZmMQfaCApgtUGOTPVa2IQ43pReM_uEt7AS2Kw78yctCxFHLLKLhnD38d_TltKUz7cXMyJTXeg_CkXSz8gC7mG9Df9gNGfVuOndm6xapRqHl0k3FMIA/s800/2000000009.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYpyHAu4Ym0ZUiLZnlUCMmWLs1DbZmMQfaCApgtUGOTPVa2IQ43pReM_uEt7AS2Kw78yctCxFHLLKLhnD38d_TltKUz7cXMyJTXeg_CkXSz8gC7mG9Df9gNGfVuOndm6xapRqHl0k3FMIA/w400-h268/2000000009.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Kawaski Versys 300</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiOPnQ7qMN6JeZ3-Y8LFdm5G2nFoziyv9WWACtHOA1yyeDIi2u5B-qSl6ssqKg0wWsz39el_WeRkgPChmEPt5NScFQr5eFIZV9EGpjtSze_zJ5UjeOB0zW4mt4uW9_IWQuJcWk0bEcUPOz/s512/unnamed.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="512" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiOPnQ7qMN6JeZ3-Y8LFdm5G2nFoziyv9WWACtHOA1yyeDIi2u5B-qSl6ssqKg0wWsz39el_WeRkgPChmEPt5NScFQr5eFIZV9EGpjtSze_zJ5UjeOB0zW4mt4uW9_IWQuJcWk0bEcUPOz/w400-h300/unnamed.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Honda CB500X</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuOnvN_AcqKzpMb32X7djGLjX3RHUWGbKif98WcjZaNUG33Nl4JcfMY-zIabWqPQ9I3LgW_JheGXo-JB6U2Nq24yxYDRRmOGc2FusveU_WvnI-vzTNRDXNJ-__Gg6ir2xnzm_XWjXpITjM/s1080/2017-Honda-CRF250L-Rally-First-Look-Review.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuOnvN_AcqKzpMb32X7djGLjX3RHUWGbKif98WcjZaNUG33Nl4JcfMY-zIabWqPQ9I3LgW_JheGXo-JB6U2Nq24yxYDRRmOGc2FusveU_WvnI-vzTNRDXNJ-__Gg6ir2xnzm_XWjXpITjM/w400-h266/2017-Honda-CRF250L-Rally-First-Look-Review.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Honda CRF250L Rally</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">KTM motorcycles are very popular here in AZ...so I researched the KTM 390 Adventure, and it was definitely a top contender (very powerful), but it was quite expensive, and I really disliked the look. Heck from the front, it looks like a friggin' insect.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWGCVTkJkEl1dpnrA15kKeqiQcjY0oReU6_1HOlxsrq63hKM-MrfBZuFz0U989I7aSEZsMnX3FjZ-DH7qbN6bAsXLOCJ5EU1brdfLSTjo6FBTkegsV5M07j-n9S63dT0_S1eaDE-iwe5J-/s918/PHO_BIKE_90_RE_390ADVENTURE-MY20-White-PHO-BIKE-90-RE_%2523SALL_%2523AEPI_%2523V1.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="629" data-original-width="918" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWGCVTkJkEl1dpnrA15kKeqiQcjY0oReU6_1HOlxsrq63hKM-MrfBZuFz0U989I7aSEZsMnX3FjZ-DH7qbN6bAsXLOCJ5EU1brdfLSTjo6FBTkegsV5M07j-n9S63dT0_S1eaDE-iwe5J-/w400-h274/PHO_BIKE_90_RE_390ADVENTURE-MY20-White-PHO-BIKE-90-RE_%2523SALL_%2523AEPI_%2523V1.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">KTM 390 Adventure</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-tj0vNuMTjjIAzQ7oJTAwToBz3UdlIEeaEjdumhGL8TAWK6HQYA5XOUZk4V8SUA-VgKrlBiHCMqA3pBJtDBdjI47MyL3gPtF5ykXTyvJarMpgAkATIZ0c3ZOfWGjjNMCyofnNwbcA1Xru/s1280/390-Adventure-Front-view.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-tj0vNuMTjjIAzQ7oJTAwToBz3UdlIEeaEjdumhGL8TAWK6HQYA5XOUZk4V8SUA-VgKrlBiHCMqA3pBJtDBdjI47MyL3gPtF5ykXTyvJarMpgAkATIZ0c3ZOfWGjjNMCyofnNwbcA1Xru/w400-h225/390-Adventure-Front-view.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Looks like an insect...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lastly, I researched the newly released Yamaha Tenere 700...which was getting incredible reviews, but it was creeping up to the 700 range that I already knew was quite big for me (plus it was pricy at $10k)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0E0C7lO5SO6y9uUYBYK4Z0aK2k1c0jAnQuiwZXRxbU4ed0AsmunV_K8V9t81b5uDWuCgqTXtYP6je_H-QYbk7bde1yT5X-fL1FwB-3c8PxXestT6xoLguITyESPcjTyV60MyIiuVu3U4U/s1280/yamaha-tenere-700-press-event-intensity-white-vv909675-1591726260.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0E0C7lO5SO6y9uUYBYK4Z0aK2k1c0jAnQuiwZXRxbU4ed0AsmunV_K8V9t81b5uDWuCgqTXtYP6je_H-QYbk7bde1yT5X-fL1FwB-3c8PxXestT6xoLguITyESPcjTyV60MyIiuVu3U4U/w400-h266/yamaha-tenere-700-press-event-intensity-white-vv909675-1591726260.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yamaha Tenere 700</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>After about a month of trying to convince myself that one of these motorcycles was going to be my dream adventure bike, I essentially gave up after not ever truly feeling inspired by any of them. There were also all so modern in design, with too many plastic fairings, and too sporty of a look. So...that was it I thought.<div><br /></div><div>But then something else happened. As I was reading a few last reviews online, I stumbled across a comparison between the G310GS and a bike I'd never heard of before: a Royal Enfield Himalayan. The reviewer actually argued that despite the Himalayan having less power, and being rather "utilitarian" in styling, he much preferred it.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVfT7E37xEl7Tw6MyQ7ndhyDW6jJRaDWDZAkkzpAm4i1aPAmkLndCiuHncUI24etqcaowNAs3hLNniMe-wrmP8p7qW3lyveH68dwrZmly_NQNMkGO2InsZBAl7NwbrtF2mgUPhdp84W1Fj/s760/2VROMGH3XFG77P6JO3GM5R2FP4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="760" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVfT7E37xEl7Tw6MyQ7ndhyDW6jJRaDWDZAkkzpAm4i1aPAmkLndCiuHncUI24etqcaowNAs3hLNniMe-wrmP8p7qW3lyveH68dwrZmly_NQNMkGO2InsZBAl7NwbrtF2mgUPhdp84W1Fj/w400-h225/2VROMGH3XFG77P6JO3GM5R2FP4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan - Such a beautiful and classic design!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>...And that's when the obsession began.</div><div><br /></div><div>I spent the subsequent month researching nothing but the Himalayan, and every time I saw it, every article I read about it, it became painfully clear. I was finally, and truly, excited about an adventure motorcycle. I had found my golden unicorn.</div><div><br /></div><div>On September 1st, Royal Enfield launched their a pre-order for the new 2021 model which would now include switchable ABS and better brakes (a complaint about previous models). I eagerly put down a deposit, and took a trip down to a local shop to test ride a 2020 model. I instantly knew it was a done deal. For the next month, I patiently waited for my preorder to come in. Two weeks ago I finally got the call that it was in, and I asked C to drop me off at the dealership about 60 miles away in Cottonwood. </div><div><br /></div><div>As soon as I saw it, I knew it was going to be the start of many amazing adventures.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcNy1xQJpOonOseNA_wEFoY6Z7vxAw8wvciS87_koUUyPPeNeZ73G-i5Qh7YSC7Y3bmzgbNn_sbf2bfa2_caMKJjOIwhhtg9LEhbri67Qj_wcxNj5gGS6PE_pMV_Oie5mEcpSCsp6eR0SB/s1024/AB68A82E-7A65-40DB-B5B1-6E486BB8D694_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcNy1xQJpOonOseNA_wEFoY6Z7vxAw8wvciS87_koUUyPPeNeZ73G-i5Qh7YSC7Y3bmzgbNn_sbf2bfa2_caMKJjOIwhhtg9LEhbri67Qj_wcxNj5gGS6PE_pMV_Oie5mEcpSCsp6eR0SB/w400-h300/AB68A82E-7A65-40DB-B5B1-6E486BB8D694_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">2021 Royal Enfield Himalayan sitting at the dealership...waiting for me</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After finalizing paperwork, I strapped on some new riding gear that I had just picked up, and rode over 100 miles of backroads back home. It was an absolute blast and I was practically giggling every second of the way. I stopped many times to let the bike cool off (as it was in the break-in period), and simply enjoyed the scenery. I also got so many questions/comments about it....i.e. make/model, styling, look, etc.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">By the time I got home, I couldn't wait to ride it again. The very next weekend I drove it all the way back to the Phoenix area to get the first major service (300 mile) and have gone out several times since. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj2rSuF4fEYV5FMGjpneFmTwuzaeWKBuqj3koGdleDIqJG0GN4mDUFx0rhT4xE0INTkg9o6XdRfj2wklgFfbc2q6uDG8UAfpwdJwhrWK9m6vHBjfzlO_chqX04mF-2LuOCF50CzN0eCs0X/s1024/9326D64E-6FC8-4D27-9F64-FCD3776AA793_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj2rSuF4fEYV5FMGjpneFmTwuzaeWKBuqj3koGdleDIqJG0GN4mDUFx0rhT4xE0INTkg9o6XdRfj2wklgFfbc2q6uDG8UAfpwdJwhrWK9m6vHBjfzlO_chqX04mF-2LuOCF50CzN0eCs0X/w400-h300/9326D64E-6FC8-4D27-9F64-FCD3776AA793_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Along the backroads of AZ</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As the weather begins to turn here in AZ, I will sadly have to put the new machine up for winter storage, but I'm happy to have had a nice little taste of adventure on it. I will be spending my winter dreaming of the adventures to come next Summer in the San Juans of Colorado! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Apparently it is also customary to name your Adventure Motorcycle. I thought about some of my past adventures and kept coming back to to my time in Iceland, and to Icelandic names. So everyone....I'm very happy to introduce you all to Freyja. May we have many amazing, and safe, all-terrain adventures together in the coming years!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr6SLtXwN0W1KP_camjbG2RQE2BMKS7gjS8ijefewZXE9pay71DX12jp8f4Zxjwdznn7ZrUHhTHV6cGauLjiXC7kHfy5JcF9lUqll3HJDIK8iAM4NSxGXTXQ-h9t4Wrl8JFrSW_BucH9iY/s1022/81594BCE-AF83-42FE-B338-A675E0934C7D_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1022" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr6SLtXwN0W1KP_camjbG2RQE2BMKS7gjS8ijefewZXE9pay71DX12jp8f4Zxjwdznn7ZrUHhTHV6cGauLjiXC7kHfy5JcF9lUqll3HJDIK8iAM4NSxGXTXQ-h9t4Wrl8JFrSW_BucH9iY/w400-h300/81594BCE-AF83-42FE-B338-A675E0934C7D_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Meet Freyja</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42seKKKncZ-6fA2FzOsEjHv1TBH1rrw8r8i-66ZVhbN_3KiVR_kVn6qRFSOYa7qZiLkcdLp1eJMu481-VxtD9f9GGv1EFin5KVgBC6uHwv8RiiOBYt342Sud-8NsAOsIHfjl2ZnaXh8Fr/s1022/F2877B52-4BEA-42C8-804D-CCCA5BB10389_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1022" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42seKKKncZ-6fA2FzOsEjHv1TBH1rrw8r8i-66ZVhbN_3KiVR_kVn6qRFSOYa7qZiLkcdLp1eJMu481-VxtD9f9GGv1EFin5KVgBC6uHwv8RiiOBYt342Sud-8NsAOsIHfjl2ZnaXh8Fr/w400-h300/F2877B52-4BEA-42C8-804D-CCCA5BB10389_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ready to explore!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe2L2dDkdYZz1emxb1m4aAu8o6vqFzvDcZJb17t8vVMPcLv7Y613fxyAlJTX8SJUXezhVeulSdRqafdUQT4vnQZg7-ADv6AZMGu34c9p8lQ7zRwRK8YU3AKkFIojBBOVuXzv5_AbePXCsz/s1024/3C6547F5-6D4E-410C-B8FC-E1B6DB8F2F08_1_105_c.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe2L2dDkdYZz1emxb1m4aAu8o6vqFzvDcZJb17t8vVMPcLv7Y613fxyAlJTX8SJUXezhVeulSdRqafdUQT4vnQZg7-ADv6AZMGu34c9p8lQ7zRwRK8YU3AKkFIojBBOVuXzv5_AbePXCsz/w400-h300/3C6547F5-6D4E-410C-B8FC-E1B6DB8F2F08_1_105_c.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">But sadly....it's time to winterize...but we'll be back!</div>Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-60966669006909524592020-06-13T00:47:00.001-04:002020-06-13T13:29:24.879-04:00Across the Ditch and Back (R2R2R)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHt9O6z-YXrv3Wt53H_4o6AiO_MZIfiOYCTa1oyu9FOz4sRXlYB9_GzclDdl9N73Tt3OkR9UOV_vJT_sOPDLZ1Ujm0_aRLgnU9JVbFFT4FdOsO7_2kCgvX_natgYfgjz7GTs4fqzRYzgk/s1600/IMG_1975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHt9O6z-YXrv3Wt53H_4o6AiO_MZIfiOYCTa1oyu9FOz4sRXlYB9_GzclDdl9N73Tt3OkR9UOV_vJT_sOPDLZ1Ujm0_aRLgnU9JVbFFT4FdOsO7_2kCgvX_natgYfgjz7GTs4fqzRYzgk/s400/IMG_1975.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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View from the South Rim</div>
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This past weekend, while I was flipping through my weather app, I noticed that Monday was forecast to be an unseasonably cool day for June in Arizona. Here in Flagstaff, there was actually a frost warning for the morning. The high in town was only going to be around 60. </div>
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'I wonder how how hot it'll be in the Canyon....'</div>
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Back in November, C and I took our first trip up to the Grand Canyon. It happened to be on a day where everything was covered in 6+ inches of snow. As we walked up to the Mather vista point, we both were utterly speechless. As magnificent as I imagined the Grand Canyon would be, let's just say that apparently my imagination had horrendously underperformed. We spent the next day snow-shoeing around the South Rim and taking in the sights. Upon leaving, I told myself that I definitely would be back to do a Rim to Rim to Rim hike or run at some point soon. </div>
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Some pics from our November trip are in my Year-end post here:</div>
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<a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2020/02/2019-in-review-year-of-transitions.html">2019 - Year in Review</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimzaCiLwYclnDuKb6aPJRDBcz4JgH3hdu8SHILHO5_yNKbEpU7qVF-6f5MtCNFWfqoOagl70L8l7-qR-Hio4nUNdXBGefWEwce07qMmpQ4Qu8o25q1Qn4Jry_MhzXqdIw3gz1Z_7tEONsu/s1600/gc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimzaCiLwYclnDuKb6aPJRDBcz4JgH3hdu8SHILHO5_yNKbEpU7qVF-6f5MtCNFWfqoOagl70L8l7-qR-Hio4nUNdXBGefWEwce07qMmpQ4Qu8o25q1Qn4Jry_MhzXqdIw3gz1Z_7tEONsu/s400/gc.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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November trip to the Canyon</div>
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The problem with going for a R2R2R attempt, is that unless you go in late Fall or Early Spring, you are likely to have a really miserable/hot time down at the bottom (or a really cold and icy time during winter at the top). Typically, Phantom Ranch (down at the river) has daily highs over 100 degrees in Late Spring and Summer. Spring and Fall are tough for me with the semester being in session though. So when I looked up what the projected Monday high temperature for Phantom Ranch was, and that it was only going to get up to 80 degrees, I immediately made plans for an attempt. This epiphany was made even more exciting by the fact that I had just learned that the not only was Hardrock 100 canceled for the year, but that my entry was not going to be rolled over. I was in need of a wee little adventure.</div>
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So...I did what any ultrarunner/adventurer would do. I re-activated my Inreach, bought some supplies, dug out my National Parks yearly pass, and made plans to drive up to the South Rim at 3 am on Monday Morning. </div>
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Most R2R2R runners utilizes the South and North Kaibab Trails as they present the shortest total route. I debated whether or not to start at the Bright Angel trailhead as there is parking right at the start, but ultimately decided to stick to Kaibab. The downside was that I did have to hike 2 miles from my parked car, just to get to the trailhead, so it effectively wasn't any shorter overall.</div>
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After poring over the maps and info online, I learned that a full Rim to Rim to Rim, would entail 42 miles, with about 11,000 feet of gain (~46 miles if you include the walks to/from the trailhead). This was honestly not as bad as I thought. I began doing math in my head on what time I needed to start by to avoid hiking in the dark. </div>
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My goals were simple: I wanted to enjoy the day, and take in the sights as much as possible. I wanted to marvel at the different geologic formations, and not feel rushed. With that said, I still wanted to move with purpose, and try to average at least 3 mph. I really didn't want to 'run', and instead wanted to rely mostly on my fast hiking skills. My back-of-the-envelope calculations had me doing the full out and back in about 14 hours (15 if you include the ~4 miles to/from the trailhead). I figured if I started by 4:30 am, I could be back to the car by dark (or at the very least back to the trailhead), as long as I didn't run into any issues.</div>
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I spent Sunday night packing and prepping, and decided to go with my larger hiking pack (as opposed to a running-style vest). Again, my plan was to mostly hike, so I wasn't too worried about awkward running with a bigger pack on. With that said however, the pack I went with was my old FastPack 20, which I can run fairly proficiently in.</div>
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At 3:00 am on Monday morning, my alarm chirped and I was out of my bed in an instant. It was going to be a good day. I churned out some quick coffee, taped my feet, gathered my pre-packed gear, and was out the door by 3:20.</div>
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The drive to the South Rim went smoothly. It was the first time in a very long time that I had made a longer drive by myself in the car. It was somehow soothing listening to my music and drinking my coffee on a solo drive. It's weird to think that just a year ago, I was driving over 300 solo miles a week just going back and forth from Vermont to Boston...and now I barely drive at all. In the entire year we've lived in Flagstaff, we've only put a few thousand miles on the car. </div>
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I hit the main parking area at the South Rim about 4:35 am and then took about 10 minutes prepping my sunblock and gear before starting my hike over to the trailhead 2.25 miles away. I briskly walked along the paved rim trail and got some beautiful pre-dawn views. The sun was not up yet, but it was light enough out that I would not need a headlamp. At around 5:15 I hit the South Kaibab Trailhead. I took some pictures, activated my InReach, sent a 'At Trailhead' message to C, and officially started my Garmin watch. The R2R2R had begun at 5:18 am.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJVfbdeQrJSk_hDJ_qDcYCCtCex73y0ozxsgFJFnEkQyNdounOg9N90DpxjWvOqezfo_5iCaD5jfs0pArMm19dbnil7FJr_ChL98aPI5wKQPJMzt8JCv_2op3tR9v9GZX8JNYGHSJhFNGa/s1600/IMG_1952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJVfbdeQrJSk_hDJ_qDcYCCtCex73y0ozxsgFJFnEkQyNdounOg9N90DpxjWvOqezfo_5iCaD5jfs0pArMm19dbnil7FJr_ChL98aPI5wKQPJMzt8JCv_2op3tR9v9GZX8JNYGHSJhFNGa/s400/IMG_1952.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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At the South Kaibab Trailhead (5:18 am)</div>
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(Note: AZ doesn't do Daylight Savings, so we get very early sunrises)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQMd-E43b9h-PkkoVVLAj9-SFu98-_xQvk15nkULwH5dlTcUlvNNPS5jV_ugEUcSLL5n6fjnZQQp4mmTlBE0VLuWRSbi7BFq9xAL9W_lSErA5Hz7_2pRs-uVA6bIF0UYc9mAck-9tNEz4/s1600/IMG_1954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQMd-E43b9h-PkkoVVLAj9-SFu98-_xQvk15nkULwH5dlTcUlvNNPS5jV_ugEUcSLL5n6fjnZQQp4mmTlBE0VLuWRSbi7BFq9xAL9W_lSErA5Hz7_2pRs-uVA6bIF0UYc9mAck-9tNEz4/s400/IMG_1954.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Obligatory start selfie</div>
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Within minutes I was already at the first vista point, the appropriately named, 'Ooh Aah Point'. It was right about then that the sun finally made an appearance. It made me feel slightly 'behind schedule' despite it still being before 6 am, so I did actually do a little jogging on the descent. I recall the first few miles going by extremely quickly. In what seemed like minutes, I had already dropped over 2000 feet in elevation.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiItX4r4NZgNrlV86CvM7YnmtcFrATXWeYlKIS66TmWVf4ckRk4fI4rRJUVvWM80n1dRKnxE3Pz6BPx3DPJVCc9nVnP1etTvD3WmJC70CCYXs2LAvhYWPjgF6tPxPQJZKGy8CAiSV2VO1JM/s1600/IMG_1955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiItX4r4NZgNrlV86CvM7YnmtcFrATXWeYlKIS66TmWVf4ckRk4fI4rRJUVvWM80n1dRKnxE3Pz6BPx3DPJVCc9nVnP1etTvD3WmJC70CCYXs2LAvhYWPjgF6tPxPQJZKGy8CAiSV2VO1JM/s400/IMG_1955.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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1 mile down the trail at Ooh Aah Point</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrKMCUbQbxEsM3ARnMlSKrlfumP_od7MOtrCXSr3qLqCYKuGbiBqKK2SLIToPUlkHHuxihOvBIbqnuPbWF_bPACg2ow24fqnRDkMdF51cUv4S02lkkUPRBL_zfbrHxfRcK_uhaeY3tDBS/s1600/IMG_1956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrKMCUbQbxEsM3ARnMlSKrlfumP_od7MOtrCXSr3qLqCYKuGbiBqKK2SLIToPUlkHHuxihOvBIbqnuPbWF_bPACg2ow24fqnRDkMdF51cUv4S02lkkUPRBL_zfbrHxfRcK_uhaeY3tDBS/s400/IMG_1956.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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About 2.5 miles down trail</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5fbPTiE5g3OD-PwbaGZukzd2Ou7arWEheMvBaTGiaaEqFs4J_VYjESiX3N2cfaedKE9MWhdN8PZCEm27w4eJbcUvIR_lHjjVakR9d0x95ex45wqZO3m8DR37rogAFci2N3Ny-2zf8HGT/s1600/IMG_1957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs5fbPTiE5g3OD-PwbaGZukzd2Ou7arWEheMvBaTGiaaEqFs4J_VYjESiX3N2cfaedKE9MWhdN8PZCEm27w4eJbcUvIR_lHjjVakR9d0x95ex45wqZO3m8DR37rogAFci2N3Ny-2zf8HGT/s400/IMG_1957.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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About 4 miles down, hiking through the 'Supergroup'</div>
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(These precambrian sedimentary rocks are only exposed in a few areas)</div>
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I passed a couple of people on the descent, including one park ranger who brushed me up on my Grand Canyon stratigraphy. About an hour in, I was already getting views of the river. The descent had not been nearly as steep as I was expecting, and there were a lot of forgiving switchbacks. I was constantly switching between hiking, and light jogging. Once I saw the foot bridge over the river, I knew I was getting close. I had remembered from the map that it was about 6 miles to to the crossing, and I had already gone past five miles in just a little over an hour. I was making great time.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-FP7xa89fynMKQ1Rf6U6zvta3DfD-MiyftcVuQeTEFMDYteXQr2Kc2GnXM9SX0y3Aeyx4uVq8PgAd8lvrHbjMDsrb4y1Nd712mkOXNXrspOF31xkAVoXlVhqNRRe5VsiTZOLV6FI70mi/s1600/IMG_1958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs-FP7xa89fynMKQ1Rf6U6zvta3DfD-MiyftcVuQeTEFMDYteXQr2Kc2GnXM9SX0y3Aeyx4uVq8PgAd8lvrHbjMDsrb4y1Nd712mkOXNXrspOF31xkAVoXlVhqNRRe5VsiTZOLV6FI70mi/s400/IMG_1958.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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View of the river from about half-way down.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwBPI2lV0dOC5Lq3HHXLh3oRGJp-_cqzSxTO7jbWqdBUpvFAarw3Sc_0O8McCsEKXoMkKf0e-W1naliZY-IDgteFS8qzsuGC9IyZghycGXlH50VbIvqfupbLiec2Ti8LzDg5pdid7w-f-y/s1600/IMG_1959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwBPI2lV0dOC5Lq3HHXLh3oRGJp-_cqzSxTO7jbWqdBUpvFAarw3Sc_0O8McCsEKXoMkKf0e-W1naliZY-IDgteFS8qzsuGC9IyZghycGXlH50VbIvqfupbLiec2Ti8LzDg5pdid7w-f-y/s400/IMG_1959.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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First view of the bridge about 1200 feet down.</div>
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I made it to the river after just 90 minutes from leaving the trailhead. I was greeted by a rock tunnel just before the footbridge crossing. I hadn't realized just how high up and scary the bridge crossing would be. Needless to say, I stared at my feet to prevent getting vertigo. It was a little unsettling.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheyH0DcboJLZyph36p71ybnIYp0nKjf6rzDxunlVVYv9kDQAI0lbDc41buzL4wScCd-jbpSh5poaVkN12jWVQx4tD87zMSaulIzSGzpu4PG6s3GWiNuc8yt4OdXz-rok2TgrEkPIGsXnPm/s1600/IMG_1960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheyH0DcboJLZyph36p71ybnIYp0nKjf6rzDxunlVVYv9kDQAI0lbDc41buzL4wScCd-jbpSh5poaVkN12jWVQx4tD87zMSaulIzSGzpu4PG6s3GWiNuc8yt4OdXz-rok2TgrEkPIGsXnPm/s400/IMG_1960.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Last switchback before the tunnel and bridge</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsljTTUClpmIzBpguAyqqIzakFBraJb3aX8YJq4BVD6w7R2lCxCJBNgq92tFS3h7ay8pRD886mnaVBF3E0yamOfivCPJuhD0-WQrmGc2UdWQ_VdCL9zpR_CQM4bFBso_SolcgNXc6MDrbb/s1600/IMG_1961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsljTTUClpmIzBpguAyqqIzakFBraJb3aX8YJq4BVD6w7R2lCxCJBNgq92tFS3h7ay8pRD886mnaVBF3E0yamOfivCPJuhD0-WQrmGc2UdWQ_VdCL9zpR_CQM4bFBso_SolcgNXc6MDrbb/s400/IMG_1961.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Tunnel just before river crossing</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxCB9UOWcia9mH4VP8gwY4i8x25WNoE50819h49Pzuisi99zF4zW0shgXPkDmWVn_1hwcZYU18D4hB4Yc6gGw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Tunnel Video</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-H4L6CsHbw-a-IAZ8k4MZNvTPZanRfJ8MfeYfPGArfJQgrA5qjr71TuxfiBUBMuuVZMxqu30auoQgmTMTafY2-LsKSnZ-xlaI2V40riF51hekLTQXut7PZi4MTdyySjdphmd8Bclm7DE/s1600/IMG_1963.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-H4L6CsHbw-a-IAZ8k4MZNvTPZanRfJ8MfeYfPGArfJQgrA5qjr71TuxfiBUBMuuVZMxqu30auoQgmTMTafY2-LsKSnZ-xlaI2V40riF51hekLTQXut7PZi4MTdyySjdphmd8Bclm7DE/s400/IMG_1963.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Suspension foot bridge....VERY high above the river.</div>
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I took a short break on the other side, and then slowly began the long slog up the North Kaibab Trail. I hit 7 total miles and Phantom Ranch right at 7:00 am and it was still quite cool there. I knew on the way back many hours later it was likely to be much much warmer.<br />
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For the next 9 miles the trail wound its way around canyon walls without gaining much elevation. This section definitely dragged on a bit, but was at least gentle enough that I could still get in some intermittent jogging.<br />
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After about 3 hours, I finally made it to the Manzanita camp and the turn up the Roaring Springs canyon. This is when the trail finally starts to climb steeply up to the North Rim. I took a 10 minute break at a picnic table and refilled my water bottles (the taps were turned on thankfully). As I left to start the more difficult stretch of the North Kaibab trail, I also noticed it was beginning to get a bit warmer. The trail not only began to get steeper, but also a lot more precipitous. There were sections that were reminiscent of the Hardrock course where the trail was maybe 2 feet wide along a steep canyon wall, with at least a thousand foot drop just a step to the right. I found myself really 'hugging' the walls on those stretches.<br />
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Over the next five miles the trail wound steeply up the Roaring Springs Canyon, and over many switchbacks. I also noticed I was finally out of the basement rocks, and back in the sedimentary geology going through various recognizable formations. I crossed a foot bridge about 2 miles from the top that I had recognized from a video clip online, and so knew I was getting closer.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOR5GN970_b6X2Bx2gEabqiqnbRf2HDtjMtSfhx1AXiO0QAhnU_cc_aidn0bDtRG5B7Zjx5ZWf7Xvn9BIEoNnGFZsCzDvJj7ara88YHG8L72pZJ9-_IaFg8mRE3kRD-cCYMUKpHDTD93sI/s1600/IMG_1964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOR5GN970_b6X2Bx2gEabqiqnbRf2HDtjMtSfhx1AXiO0QAhnU_cc_aidn0bDtRG5B7Zjx5ZWf7Xvn9BIEoNnGFZsCzDvJj7ara88YHG8L72pZJ9-_IaFg8mRE3kRD-cCYMUKpHDTD93sI/s400/IMG_1964.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Starting up Roaring Springs Canyon towards the North Rim</div>
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The white limestone formation at the very top is where I was headed</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLhGIcVtbeSLbVTSikTSrfuvg42rTiEbzAY3GTr6_9ntPlSdgy4battSJhy8rLU74OhTkEExkHbm1dNI_ar7WZiDAWRABW5j0oaQ1K4GtBSgT-DT85nsvTWgPiIZHUalqkbAeiKnMIwqy/s1600/IMG_1965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLhGIcVtbeSLbVTSikTSrfuvg42rTiEbzAY3GTr6_9ntPlSdgy4battSJhy8rLU74OhTkEExkHbm1dNI_ar7WZiDAWRABW5j0oaQ1K4GtBSgT-DT85nsvTWgPiIZHUalqkbAeiKnMIwqy/s400/IMG_1965.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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View from the N. Kaibab Trail</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDeLIfy82DGe6bXdfS0p7VxQFwpj_5FZF3OP-KNYrKswVdVobrrMxAS8sCtfQQVmA8wAZQeV4G31qXlWmqsUOMhfsB_zuO1m8R4DsALzTB2p0rjmGct1CPl6oYJ1L128RtV7VjX4k5UtsF/s1600/IMG_1966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDeLIfy82DGe6bXdfS0p7VxQFwpj_5FZF3OP-KNYrKswVdVobrrMxAS8sCtfQQVmA8wAZQeV4G31qXlWmqsUOMhfsB_zuO1m8R4DsALzTB2p0rjmGct1CPl6oYJ1L128RtV7VjX4k5UtsF/s400/IMG_1966.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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More views from the climb</div>
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The last 2 miles were the toughest of the North Kaibab section. The trail got noticeably steeper, but thankfully it was also cooler due to the elevation. The North Rim trailhead is actually over 8200 feet elevation (1000 feet higher than the South Rim). I did some rough math and realized I might actually make the trailhead in under 6 hours if I pushed it a bit. It was an arbitrary number, but it still gave me a little extra motivation to get there without dawdling too much. I kept checking my altimeter and my mileage and it felt like it was taking forever to get to the top. Even though I knew it was 21 miles, somehow I felt like I'd get there sooner. My watch read 5:58 total time, so I figured I wasn't going to hit 6 hours. </div>
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But then I turned a slight corner and saw the steps leading up to the recognizable trailhead sign. I looked down....5:59...so I sprinted and made it to the top just before my watch flipped to 6:00 flat (or clock time 11:18 am). YES! I treated myself with a 15+ minute lunch break. I destroyed my PB&J sandwich, and downed a full liter of water. It felt nice to take a well-earned break. I think I put down a full packet of sugar gummies as well. Eventually I topped off all of my waters, and slowly packed up for my return. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8hSpfHGAhzeaECjSSUE41RNptMnXb3b-VBpbPW1_QEkry776eQgflF1rj9dZMuP0KEx3sS8lfybailWa6qSfPscGQOuIq2Z6OEmKrhbsj79CfZ8hbEMpVbiLG8n1uq73jOyZoYuUEalf/s1600/IMG_1967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8hSpfHGAhzeaECjSSUE41RNptMnXb3b-VBpbPW1_QEkry776eQgflF1rj9dZMuP0KEx3sS8lfybailWa6qSfPscGQOuIq2Z6OEmKrhbsj79CfZ8hbEMpVbiLG8n1uq73jOyZoYuUEalf/s400/IMG_1967.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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North Rim Trailhead - halfway done</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJxLOUkZ016I7Ta0s2dB2a0tZ0bEA0vc5LfSmS88Uxl0OQORbF04FKIdqLr-C72LEq3sY_pMZnVhKGSG83spIEAOI5psKrmj-WVLUiACXgxEdLSREraUXtFptzoO-oaWKMiNkIBgfj3yo7/s1600/IMG_1968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJxLOUkZ016I7Ta0s2dB2a0tZ0bEA0vc5LfSmS88Uxl0OQORbF04FKIdqLr-C72LEq3sY_pMZnVhKGSG83spIEAOI5psKrmj-WVLUiACXgxEdLSREraUXtFptzoO-oaWKMiNkIBgfj3yo7/s400/IMG_1968.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Definitely a bit spent, but happy the long climb is over.</div>
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I started back down the trail at trip time of 6:15 (or about 11:33 am). It was nice to know that I was already heading back for a 16+ mile downhill stretch, and it was still before noon. I felt pretty confident I'd be able to get back to the South Rim by dark (but definitely still had my headlamp packed should the need arise).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPCSgRbWv_2l8PJS7Mx9jRKNzKLPDwBhluIuKymRTMeqZhMPm0ZCqlYU-vsgz9jer0y9sJ0L0KhVPKpc_2PTAHyAJjEO7AI3JcKo0zdhVoZZrnvRwVdYn7zI2IUGum8txbAzTS-HePBhj/s1600/IMG_1972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPCSgRbWv_2l8PJS7Mx9jRKNzKLPDwBhluIuKymRTMeqZhMPm0ZCqlYU-vsgz9jer0y9sJ0L0KhVPKpc_2PTAHyAJjEO7AI3JcKo0zdhVoZZrnvRwVdYn7zI2IUGum8txbAzTS-HePBhj/s400/IMG_1972.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Along the descent with some clouds overhead</div>
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I made pretty quick work of the upper descent through the Roaring Springs Canyon. I was entirely hiking, but it was my goofy trademark trekking pole scampering that I do that averages over 3 mph. At one point on the descent, a mid-afternoon monsoon cloud formed over head and the temperature noticeably plummeted. I felt almost cold...but I wasn't complaining. For about 2 minutes I noticed very small specks floating through the air and thought, 'That's a strange type of pollen..."</div>
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Turns out it was actually small snow flakes. Yep...it was snowing in the Grand Canyon, in June. I laughed at the ridiculousness of it and plodded on. When I made it back to the Manzanita camp about 25 total miles in, I took another short break. I was starting to get a bit tired. I hydrated fully, and topped off my bottles again before continuing on. The next ~9 miles I knew would be long, hot, and mentally slow. I put my head down, and did my best to power hike as fast as I could. I still didn't feel like running.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyX1CIZ2tCLyTUfSEVF-_5y43JmD54-3Q4t7jvbs1vPDiSdvT9iSLlmIUIxOO01rkQ1oCOtcFB4bHVihyM_pg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Is that snow??!!</div>
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For the next several hours, the trail wound its way around one canyon wall after another. It seemed like no matter how many turns I made, I just wasn't getting any closer to Phantom Ranch. The sun was also sapping my energy quite notably. I was hot, tired, and a bit cranky to be honest. This section of the route just isn't as appealing geologically either. Still, I thought of how lucky I was to be there, and any negative thoughts quickly eroded away (pardon the geology pun).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjctkUq4RuOASDYFf6t8sX7G4sFFOwd8Xzrj7BgbpQFbZk6MiwXAS_PeXAnsQfWctN0sVnmW1yQgYZcpnwZatC_uv1IZ6dKXDFcJFGBAx1A30-k7iOeQc-wuO03tbWtfZkPVeAtiXmEAPzF/s1600/IMG_1973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjctkUq4RuOASDYFf6t8sX7G4sFFOwd8Xzrj7BgbpQFbZk6MiwXAS_PeXAnsQfWctN0sVnmW1yQgYZcpnwZatC_uv1IZ6dKXDFcJFGBAx1A30-k7iOeQc-wuO03tbWtfZkPVeAtiXmEAPzF/s400/IMG_1973.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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View from the winding lower canyon in the hot sun</div>
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When I did finally hit Phantom Ranch, I decided to push through to to the water pump 1 mile further down the trail right at the River junction. I had tested it in the morning and it was working. Well, When I made it there almost 20 minutes later, I learned that the pump had been shut off. So I had a decision to make.</div>
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I had 1 full liter of water in my pack and 6 miles (and 5000 feet) of gain ahead of me....during a hot part of the day. I wasn't a fan of treating Colorado River water, so made the rather stupid decision to just do the last 6 miles with my 1 liter. I figured I'd be fine...temps were ok, and there was bound to be potable water at one of the camps on the ascent.</div>
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I took a break at the bridge, ate the last of my food, swigged some water, and prepped for the 5000 foot climb. It was about 3:30 PM at this point. The first 2 miles of the ascent went quickly. The switchbacks were forgiving, and I was making great time. I only swigged a few gulps of water, and the trail was mostly shaded. I figured I'd have no trouble.</div>
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Turns out that I was a bit wrong. The last 3 miles of the climb are really tough, very exposed, and take a really long time. the 40 miles of the day had caught up to me and over the last two miles I struggled immensely. I found myself stopping several times to rest and actually had to ration my water. When I finally did hit Ooh Aah Point, I knew I had less than a mile and less than 800 feet of climb to go. Not long after I finished the last gulp of water, and I realized that I didn't remember a water tap at the South Rim trailhead. This would mean I'd have to not only finish out the last 1/2 mile of climb without water, but also hike the 2.25 miles back to the car dry as well. Yep...I should have refilled at Phantom Ranch. Lesson Learned: never pass by a water tap without topping off!</div>
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I hit the last set of switchbacks just 100 feet below the trailhead and slowed to a crawl pace. When I finally did top out, I lumbered down the short paved section back to the official trailhead sign a few meters away. I was utterly relieved to find a working water tap. I noted the time: 6:29 PM. It had taken me just under 7 hours on the return leg and <b>13hrs 10mins</b> total time from trailhead to trailhead, including breaks. My average pace over the entire endeavor was about 3.2 mph, so I was quite thrilled. </div>
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I was not, however, looking forward to the 2+ mile slog back to the car. Thankfully it was all flat and with nice views out over the canyon. I noticed a very large smoke plume coming from the direction of the North Rim and wondered if was from near the trailhead. Apparently there was a wildfire burning in that area.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHt9O6z-YXrv3Wt53H_4o6AiO_MZIfiOYCTa1oyu9FOz4sRXlYB9_GzclDdl9N73Tt3OkR9UOV_vJT_sOPDLZ1Ujm0_aRLgnU9JVbFFT4FdOsO7_2kCgvX_natgYfgjz7GTs4fqzRYzgk/s1600/IMG_1975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHt9O6z-YXrv3Wt53H_4o6AiO_MZIfiOYCTa1oyu9FOz4sRXlYB9_GzclDdl9N73Tt3OkR9UOV_vJT_sOPDLZ1Ujm0_aRLgnU9JVbFFT4FdOsO7_2kCgvX_natgYfgjz7GTs4fqzRYzgk/s400/IMG_1975.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Along the walk back to the car with a smoke-filled sky in the distance</div>
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Forty short minutes later, at exactly 7:10 PM (about 14 hours and 20 minutes total time from car to car), I was back at my car, finally ready to head home. I had done it. With a proper smile on my face, I made the 90 minute drive back home, and pulled in right at 9:00 pm. In all of my many adventures and ultra endeavors, I can say without hesitation, that doing the R2R2R was definitely right up there as one of the most visually breathtaking. I consider myself extraordinarily lucky to now live so close to such a ridiculous place. I will gladly do this adventure again with any of my friends that want to come visit....so....just let me know if you're headed out this way ;-)</div>
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<b>Some Stats:</b></div>
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In total, I covered 46.5 miles, including the walks to/from the trailhead.</div>
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Strava Track R2R2R: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3585936644">Rim 2 Rim 2 Rim</a></div>
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Strava Track To Trailhead: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3587753811">To Trailhead</a></div>
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Strava Track From Trailhead: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3587753882">From Trailhead</a></div>
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InReach Track: <a href="http://share.garmin.com/johnfegy">InReach Shared Map</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispY_J2xAm6-H4vNleOPs9NYmrbTyf_M1OtCI_C67s5TQcGy1YdL0NRCdrruHYurt8e85VRcLnqcuMjED8oa3gz4xsKo4a0crjJUDZEFt0zhT4-6rTzaCgRY8x_IvjRfyfr1Ra5vkhqdOr/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-06-12+at+3.17.27+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="781" data-original-width="1062" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEispY_J2xAm6-H4vNleOPs9NYmrbTyf_M1OtCI_C67s5TQcGy1YdL0NRCdrruHYurt8e85VRcLnqcuMjED8oa3gz4xsKo4a0crjJUDZEFt0zhT4-6rTzaCgRY8x_IvjRfyfr1Ra5vkhqdOr/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-06-12+at+3.17.27+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Strava Track</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvGURCfgmtWfnJrUvYvgRpnZNuFtSZ9LxsgAYu60mL9QnBQfZL9OJW_RJa1MIxdvC2NyAP1DHkDDy_-PGVWlR0rF1Tw-Zlv3AEUroGBdUzeBMKrFFOHTPQ33YuX_YBnIctBpYH5YaP3jP/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-06-12+at+3.18.58+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="829" data-original-width="1170" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvGURCfgmtWfnJrUvYvgRpnZNuFtSZ9LxsgAYu60mL9QnBQfZL9OJW_RJa1MIxdvC2NyAP1DHkDDy_-PGVWlR0rF1Tw-Zlv3AEUroGBdUzeBMKrFFOHTPQ33YuX_YBnIctBpYH5YaP3jP/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-06-12+at+3.18.58+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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InReach Track</div>
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Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-67822580175680702552020-04-13T23:22:00.001-04:002020-04-14T14:34:11.418-04:00The Reality of a New Normal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVsQRtTGv3QqyQFmS-53yL04lWpRVGC6BzyTwkfcKJR1SrB63jduZA_hwnoAZ-Ew7J5eSiw3DPV2l5lRDu0PouyRNb3CLfuC7dpr9HUA4KkBBwcDOZyy-UxWVyX0ZzvDnhERK-dqmLcDt2/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-06+at+7.54.48+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1049" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVsQRtTGv3QqyQFmS-53yL04lWpRVGC6BzyTwkfcKJR1SrB63jduZA_hwnoAZ-Ew7J5eSiw3DPV2l5lRDu0PouyRNb3CLfuC7dpr9HUA4KkBBwcDOZyy-UxWVyX0ZzvDnhERK-dqmLcDt2/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-06+at+7.54.48+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Crossing the line at the Elephant Mountain 50k</div>
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It was just a few months ago now that I was making somewhat regular weekend trips down to the greater Phoenix area (or as the locals like to call it..."The Valley"). I was taking full advantage of nearly weekly races put on by Aravaipa. I figured these were a good way to build myself up for my two peak races of the Spring: Black Canyon 100k, and the Boston Marathon (all with the Hardrock 100 on the longer July horizon)</div>
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After having successfully completed yet another run-every-day "Streak January", I was really honing my fitness and dialing in my running focus. For the past few years I have used my outings at the November MMTR to essentially mark the end of my running year, and then take most of December to rest and recover. When Jan 1 rolls around though, I commit to running every day, and to getting my self back into peak shape. Somehow, I even managed to do this last year while aboard a Research Vessel bobbing around the South Pacific near Antarctica. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9akij3S5QuQ3KG0TFsoSMm_4igyUY53WcgMUEJ-vDIMMTk6foCnShBX9m4YG7DU57WApxG8vBl83gibT-FkLfxQloB38JQUEnolXw11ik65eEQsJ8VM79RHKSt93kEZ9NXDlgTmYGb9u/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+3.03.44+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="819" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9akij3S5QuQ3KG0TFsoSMm_4igyUY53WcgMUEJ-vDIMMTk6foCnShBX9m4YG7DU57WApxG8vBl83gibT-FkLfxQloB38JQUEnolXw11ik65eEQsJ8VM79RHKSt93kEZ9NXDlgTmYGb9u/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+3.03.44+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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My 2020 Streak January peppered with bi-weekly races</div>
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Rewind for a minute....</div>
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The very first weekend in January, I began my year, and my streak with my traditional 3-hr virtual CJ's Resolution race. <a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2014/01/first-race-of-2014.html">Back in 2014</a> I ran this event in-person in PA, but for the most part have participated virtually ever since. This includes the year I ran over 18 miles outside at South Pole. Over the years I've covered miles for this 3-hour event on loops outside of Boston, or loops in Lakewood Colorado....or in the case of this year, 2-mile loops in Buffalo Park in Flagstaff. Despite being a bit out of shape for this event, I always manage to surprise myself each year with around 22 miles. Without wanting to break tradition, I again aimed for 22 this year. Of course, I would also be running my loops on a snow-covered course, with over 100-ft of elevation gain per loop, and at 7200' altitude.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6E8whWnwJzZi5BLa9zCchFaXu3jwl5YaXJ-nyuxCgDVsi-dga8-GSpPdmvF2OdAcejZASWcgVapOi-3GZoSAmuI0rA_Ucfysm31R6EneSmbBfHTn8ujKKCSGjAbppz1HO812lGQYp_L_/s1600/IMG_6751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="300" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK6E8whWnwJzZi5BLa9zCchFaXu3jwl5YaXJ-nyuxCgDVsi-dga8-GSpPdmvF2OdAcejZASWcgVapOi-3GZoSAmuI0rA_Ucfysm31R6EneSmbBfHTn8ujKKCSGjAbppz1HO812lGQYp_L_/s400/IMG_6751.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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2014 CJ's Resolution race</div>
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Well, somehow this year, despite all of these components working to make the run harder for me, <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2982410154">I still managed to eek out 22 miles.</a> The only rule of the run, is whatever loop you're doing, you have to start that loop before the 3-hr mark. Well my last 2-mile loop was started at 2hrs and 59 minutes! As you can see by my track, I began hurting a bit the last 4-5 miles.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0PWSSmTb5CdXW_Y-sBm3zuBUWhtnuLYOgcRRwXi2xFr3OUxYwmHUVv6Se3CxCU8Vi7S7lVMH1ChkeXfE_WzMYowiKOQ31aOmimRsRbjpG1CIhLbmgjfCGNvq6i1zYfQ3pFWQhrtLBTag1/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+3.10.35+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="786" data-original-width="1078" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0PWSSmTb5CdXW_Y-sBm3zuBUWhtnuLYOgcRRwXi2xFr3OUxYwmHUVv6Se3CxCU8Vi7S7lVMH1ChkeXfE_WzMYowiKOQ31aOmimRsRbjpG1CIhLbmgjfCGNvq6i1zYfQ3pFWQhrtLBTag1/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+3.10.35+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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As the weeks progressed in January, so did my streaking, and my long runs. The very next weekend, I opted to escape the cold/snow, <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3006137350">and head down to Sedona</a>. It was the first time in weeks I was able to run in shorts. Of course my run did involve fording a VERY cold Oak Creek...twice, but I was so happy to be on dirt trails, I didn't care. I took my time and had a nice day of 14 trail miles. I even stopped for some photos.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWspyWGIY1b20W9sLM9URCzlxo4oVpc9aSRL565YxnawW0q-7Xm_jt4KgbvlZ29Hb5EHqTxdY1EyeUsmIYOVCCoZhaEC7oGFocU4SjiMJ9gL0yhyTsEfWcYbsgG7IAA-tN74NUUYbiREN0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+3.15.38+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="1073" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWspyWGIY1b20W9sLM9URCzlxo4oVpc9aSRL565YxnawW0q-7Xm_jt4KgbvlZ29Hb5EHqTxdY1EyeUsmIYOVCCoZhaEC7oGFocU4SjiMJ9gL0yhyTsEfWcYbsgG7IAA-tN74NUUYbiREN0/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+3.15.38+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Fun 14 in Sedona</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiccxdKVpzcbm2wpUVauDysim5IIcYhAumS0mQamClIN8zNHqqgEOwgJCIXGeTtocHOV2_ulYP4YEO4n63fSc43BsjMtXt9w4qxU6IJq1RZI1tzQvASQ0EhYhdmXgFI9c9P_K2Xp6tYy1GH/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+3.15.54+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="698" data-original-width="989" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiccxdKVpzcbm2wpUVauDysim5IIcYhAumS0mQamClIN8zNHqqgEOwgJCIXGeTtocHOV2_ulYP4YEO4n63fSc43BsjMtXt9w4qxU6IJq1RZI1tzQvASQ0EhYhdmXgFI9c9P_K2Xp6tYy1GH/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+3.15.54+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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View from the Top in Sedona (There was still a little snow there)</div>
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About this time, I was also frantically starting to get ready for the Spring semester to start up. I would be leading another graduate class, but this time related to Energy and Energy Policy. As I began pulling together various resources for the course, it was also about this time that I remember first reading about some new type of pneumonia that was being seen in significant numbers in parts of China. Interesting I thought. I remember thinking back to a movie I watched on a plane back in 2011 that involved some new virus spreading in Asia because a bat dropped its food into a pig enclosure, thereby somehow initiating a viral "spillover" event (turns out that film was 'Contagion').</div>
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The next weekend I headed down to Phoenix for my first of many jaunts down there in late winter. I had signed up to run a 20-mile trail course called the <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3023073910">"Coldwater Rumble"</a>. I don't know what it was about this course, but I had a near-pefect day on the trails. Despite going out somewhat fast, I ran well for all 20 miles. I even cranked out 7:30 mile at mile 11, and finished in under 3 hours (something I was convinced I wouldn't do). My exact quote on my logged run for that day was, "I can't remember the lasts time I felt this friggin' good!"</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqEG0QfNQHmcbhYXnH9NCpXz5SOxmETgbuIJPqrrKX4Yd5ENkZ_LWCCPLlfm2Gvp_WThmRHhc282A8BFlJ3c5fILVpdoqsP_URXsK7m-IlcRGZ5BGEERgcoydi4KjxY7iv0Qu5O01-TCz/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-10+at+5.49.05+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="658" data-original-width="991" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFqEG0QfNQHmcbhYXnH9NCpXz5SOxmETgbuIJPqrrKX4Yd5ENkZ_LWCCPLlfm2Gvp_WThmRHhc282A8BFlJ3c5fILVpdoqsP_URXsK7m-IlcRGZ5BGEERgcoydi4KjxY7iv0Qu5O01-TCz/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-10+at+5.49.05+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Finishing the Coldwater 20 miler in 2:58.</div>
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In between these long runs and races, I was maintaining my streak almost entirely on the treadmill at my apartment complex. There is almost never anyone in the shared fitness room, so I generally had the treadmill to myself most nights. It was a nice way to dial in my tempo runs and pacing as well.</div>
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The very next weekend, I decided to go out for a long run on some roads in town. The snow was sufficiently melted that I figured I could run the Lake Mary Rd. shoulder out to the lake and back. This would give me a solid 16 miles to test my pacing. I was aiming for about 8:40 overall pace and ended the run averaging 8:39.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCL21ZhlLhAL8R1L_5JU3R_PeWpWus146qvZCTXyPFHOEjFD5s4u692vs_R14HvmT2TRQR24NfAOEuSfajIGgZvfu1A9QaDC2-Y1YUg6QM-6pgD7rYBnH-eGoDsOnZ_Y1yWL3PdKvJ-YYR/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+4.17.21+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="771" data-original-width="1078" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCL21ZhlLhAL8R1L_5JU3R_PeWpWus146qvZCTXyPFHOEjFD5s4u692vs_R14HvmT2TRQR24NfAOEuSfajIGgZvfu1A9QaDC2-Y1YUg6QM-6pgD7rYBnH-eGoDsOnZ_Y1yWL3PdKvJ-YYR/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+4.17.21+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Lake Mary Rd. Run</div>
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The following week, my class was finally in full swing and the pressure of the semester was starting to build. My focus was back again on my students and on prospective new students. I recall it was also this week that we heard in Arizona about a student at ASU who had come back from China, and had tested positive for the new virus that had been identified as the cause of the strange new pneumonia. The virus, a new strain of Coronavirus, officially dubbed "SARS-CORONAVIRUS-2 (SARS-COV-2), was responsible for the acute respiratory syndrome that was leading to the sickness and pneumonia being seen mostly in China (now being dubbed "COVID-19"). Apparently though, it had started to spread outside of China, as it was being learned that it had an incredibly long (and often asymptomatic) incubation period (up to 15 days). I remember thinking...."This could get interesting if it keeps spreading like that 'Pandemic' game or that 'Contagion' movie". I remember playing out a scenario in my head of what would happen if it spread through the US. Would the whole country go on some kind of lock down? I remember joking sarcastically with a colleague that we should buy face masks "before they sell out!"</div>
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The next weekend I found myself down in "The Valley" once more to toe the line at another Aravaipa race: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3063587172">The Elephant Mountain Race.</a> I was slowly stepping up my events, so this time was running the 50k. Again, I had a really good day, and only started feeling a bit tanked in the last 5 miles. All day I remember thinking that I might be in the top 5 overall based on an early course out-n-back, but also kind of just assumed I miscounted. Turns out I didn't. I crossed the finish line in 4th place overall and headed home feeling pretty good about myself. Later that week I got an email from the race director and they informed me that the 3rd place runner had actually skipped a section of the course and was therefore assigned a time penalty. This put me in 3rd overall. They sent me my 3rd place prize in the mail the next week.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2khDEIzKqCCwPVip5XP42X_vgWV0R4fwJFrRGKNhMooXA1Ky9x-FmQMEXyf5d4gX39Y25ZL4mg_1W5c3-DQiWrbxI79QTS997TfBwoxBcYu7MmjA-f7CfBOKvZDxnlKxFLqZMxsHt5Bmt/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+9.31.32+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="1076" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2khDEIzKqCCwPVip5XP42X_vgWV0R4fwJFrRGKNhMooXA1Ky9x-FmQMEXyf5d4gX39Y25ZL4mg_1W5c3-DQiWrbxI79QTS997TfBwoxBcYu7MmjA-f7CfBOKvZDxnlKxFLqZMxsHt5Bmt/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+9.31.32+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Elephant Mtn. 50k</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-qgAGAjIBduucnzy06whV1iTQuEcY6D2LMI-5YE5PmfZypsPhpHs08aGUmB1HAVUoZ8yVEIyacvjaJh6f9-IylIxU73-rz3NVKVFWB0Quk_kqxxOyIt9Cdyy8v1Le3IFzPcxLXfbN86w/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-06+at+7.54.48+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1049" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-qgAGAjIBduucnzy06whV1iTQuEcY6D2LMI-5YE5PmfZypsPhpHs08aGUmB1HAVUoZ8yVEIyacvjaJh6f9-IylIxU73-rz3NVKVFWB0Quk_kqxxOyIt9Cdyy8v1Le3IFzPcxLXfbN86w/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-06+at+7.54.48+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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3rd Place Finish (sort-of) for the 50k!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3lrv2jzS-1VL1QlE3BljgII0lnMs22Aa2h1RNwz5ialbj9u3i6bFB75SRouty_oCU650c9C6OWH00_gOdIj7h_h0TpoRWmwNnHybZvyUdk1jjRj0cJyRt_88dau8JSjyd-9-05EoP82KF/s1600/IMG_1750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3lrv2jzS-1VL1QlE3BljgII0lnMs22Aa2h1RNwz5ialbj9u3i6bFB75SRouty_oCU650c9C6OWH00_gOdIj7h_h0TpoRWmwNnHybZvyUdk1jjRj0cJyRt_88dau8JSjyd-9-05EoP82KF/s400/IMG_1750.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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3rd Place Award</div>
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The very next week I was at it again. It was my last weekend before I would be heading down to run my first peak race, the Black Canyon 100k. I wanted to get in one last fun effort, so began looking for anything short and local. I came across a run up along the <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3083647598">Little Colorado River </a>about an hour north of Flagstaff, so immediately signed up. The course featured some beautiful running right along the rim edge. I had another great outing and averaged sub-8-minute miles over the ~14 mile course. It was a great way to end my training and taper for a week before Black Canyon</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRwBZFq6EsQQH4JuBAMZSB_gg-OHjf0umI6f7_SsNeQzIOqeLgluTl4x_WXy3gWF3WgzoQshPuY-5PzCECsxxb8Uoi6pdOaF9oNBR4641saoaQ89hK_-NU35nIM9bpm8b2IwDKrZfVQptZ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+9.35.36+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="812" data-original-width="1077" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRwBZFq6EsQQH4JuBAMZSB_gg-OHjf0umI6f7_SsNeQzIOqeLgluTl4x_WXy3gWF3WgzoQshPuY-5PzCECsxxb8Uoi6pdOaF9oNBR4641saoaQ89hK_-NU35nIM9bpm8b2IwDKrZfVQptZ/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-12+at+9.35.36+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Little Colorado Half Marathon</div>
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And then I waited. I had one full week to relax, do some very easy/short taper runs, and focus on work. It was now mid-February, and the new Coronavirus had made a big splash in the US. The Stock Market was finally beginning to react to the gravity of what might be coming, and we were starting to see our first fatalities from the COVID-19 disease in Washington. People were starting to get worried. There were rumblings that some organizations, businesses, and even universities were considering shutting down temporarily as well.</div>
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When the weekend approached, I booked hotel room down near Black Canyon City and headed down for the night to prepare for the morning start the next day. All went smoothly on the hour-long drive down and I was all sorted and settled by 10 pm. I set my alarm early, and headed to the bus pick up spot for the race (which is a point-to-point event). We were all shuttled to the start and as usual, I mostly napped on the bus ride.</div>
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It was a busy scramble at the race start with hundreds of people mulling about in close quarters. It's funny how I think of that scene in my head now...and how absolutely antithetical it is to any sort of 'social distancing' mindset we find ourselves in today in April. At any rate, there was a bunch of amped runners, all digging their hands into community food bins, and sharing coffee cups...etc. Typical of a race start.</div>
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After a very long wait in the porta-potty line, we finally wandered out to the start track and just a few short minutes later, the race had begun. We all did one loop around the track and abruptly turned to head south along the Black Canyon Trail. I remember it being incredibly cold that morning and I had forgotten my gloves. Little did I realize I would be begging for those cold temps just 6 hours later.</div>
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I don't have any pictures from the race, but I do recall some specific memories and thoughts. For the first 15 miles or so, I felt like I was floating. I was running probably a bit too fast, but I remember it almost all trended downhill, so I was very comfortable. I was genuinely smiling and content along the course. As aid stations went by...one by one, I kept thinking how surprising it was to already be so far into the run. I remember thinking around mile 20 that I was "already a third of the way to the finish!". But, like happens often, things began to slow down. As I made my way through the half-way point, things began to get a lot hotter, and significantly slower. I was being very careful about nutrition and hydration, but still felt myself running out of gas too early. </div>
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As the day progressed into mid-afternoon, the heat became quite a struggle and I shifted into survival ultra-shuffle mode. The only really sustained climbs of the course all come after mile 40 as well, so the 'worst' of the course, would come when I was least able to handle it. Still..I managed to mostly run though. As I crept up towards mile 50, I still felt like I was mostly in control and content with my overall performance.</div>
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But...as I passed mile 50, it soon became apparent that my pacing for the day, was indeed for a 50-miler...and NOT for a 100k. The last 10 miles were incredibly rough and I sincerely struggled. I found myself walking quite a bit. What once started out as a legitimate goal of going sub 11-hr (or even 10:30), soon became a sub-12. By the time I had reached the last aid station around mile 58/59, I knew that even a sub-12 was unlikely. I was just hoping to finish before having to use my headlamp...but even that wasn't meant to be as I switched on my light just after passing mile 60. When I finally did round the corner of the last mile and see the finish off in the distance, it was a welcome sight. I mustered up a decent jog and crossed the line in 12hrs 14mins. I was a little disappointed, but also content that I still finished in a decent time, and had now checked off a Western States Qualifier early.</div>
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The drive home was long, but it gave me some time to reflect on the course. I came to realize that I needed a little break from desert running. I decided I would spend my time running up in Flagstaff for a while before heading back down to "The Valley" again.</div>
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<a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3105244197">Black Canyon 100k Race</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEPOXxll67w8kvBSNU4EXHs3ZetmheZQG9kzrt-WBtbHA6r8x55pM6icWLuKLnmA0oipKdaPu5ac4sNVa_RUaJMc2olFq58wCV3SeA3oRpsmsNAbtW51pgN4bQZmuTk_oeOiitB-4p8cX/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-21+at+5.13.20+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="969" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEPOXxll67w8kvBSNU4EXHs3ZetmheZQG9kzrt-WBtbHA6r8x55pM6icWLuKLnmA0oipKdaPu5ac4sNVa_RUaJMc2olFq58wCV3SeA3oRpsmsNAbtW51pgN4bQZmuTk_oeOiitB-4p8cX/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-21+at+5.13.20+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Finishing the Black Canyon 100k</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaLpli1BKV-amUi5KYNfFZBG-i6oLdhJEoZByqO_51L0CpEFOLtvZrvw81SR8sjKvxxLrRMkU1CiSx7OcDZD3Wlec2T5RR33zkxqPw_3W-K9K5HHl2cPkJZ_NqPpwhWZ-o-4jwoORv5TII/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-13+at+8.23.50+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="787" data-original-width="1072" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaLpli1BKV-amUi5KYNfFZBG-i6oLdhJEoZByqO_51L0CpEFOLtvZrvw81SR8sjKvxxLrRMkU1CiSx7OcDZD3Wlec2T5RR33zkxqPw_3W-K9K5HHl2cPkJZ_NqPpwhWZ-o-4jwoORv5TII/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-13+at+8.23.50+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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BC 100k course</div>
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Over the remainder of February I eased back and took things much easier. I had a couple of slower-paced trail outings with a fellow colleague: One in <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3126256823">Sedona</a>, and one near <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3142494257">Walnut Canyon</a>. On the first Saturday of March, I had what would now be my last official 'race' of the year. I took the short drive up to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S_P_Crater">SP Crater</a> (look up what the SP stands for ;-), for a <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3163193167">half-marathon</a> with some work friends. It was a really nice course and featured a beefy climb up onto the shoulder of the crater right at the half-way point. I managed to finish in really good time and had a great day overall. Little did I know that everything was about to change.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqIR79YuIMUJ-CKrpquTwu3yGufFvqZ5xAnfOVpSGGp_7xS3NxnKaioe1tOGRKox0i0ElD1p7-3QF2MnARp1aWgxI5HUlFMTYVUpnb_JvZDzlzvJaO8LLQaG41wh_X3CapIdB84tyogusD/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-13+at+11.20.34+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="795" data-original-width="1075" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqIR79YuIMUJ-CKrpquTwu3yGufFvqZ5xAnfOVpSGGp_7xS3NxnKaioe1tOGRKox0i0ElD1p7-3QF2MnARp1aWgxI5HUlFMTYVUpnb_JvZDzlzvJaO8LLQaG41wh_X3CapIdB84tyogusD/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-13+at+11.20.34+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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SP Crater Half Marathon</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsg15Yo7vnMOL2qDTxpYJWQoQnx0yQD7f9MZ9DFh5-sDXrFAW05iecH_P4-OdTpnqzuh5F7WGCPUQywFmJw82ykL34Mdh94Mz6GLuMu7Ox4PcSruZjCQ1tOZi0AsEnTVhVe5YH2inAKt7S/s1600/SP_Crater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsg15Yo7vnMOL2qDTxpYJWQoQnx0yQD7f9MZ9DFh5-sDXrFAW05iecH_P4-OdTpnqzuh5F7WGCPUQywFmJw82ykL34Mdh94Mz6GLuMu7Ox4PcSruZjCQ1tOZi0AsEnTVhVe5YH2inAKt7S/s320/SP_Crater.jpg" width="271" /></a></div>
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SP Crater with its distinct lava flow</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">By the next weekend everything was changing. I still managed to get out with one co-worker for a <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3186917605">longer run</a> in Buffalo Park (the same park I ran my CJ Resolution Loops in January), but it was the first time where we were conscious about maintaining some distance between us while we ran. On that Friday, the last day of classes before Spring Break for the University, we collectively found out that the entire campus would be going to an on-line format immediately after break. This would mean all faculty had to re-develop their material to be delivered exclusively online. This could mean pre-recorded lectures, but often meant using Zoom for classroom calls. Whatever the solution though, it meant a lot of hours re-working material and what was supposed to be a nice/relaxing Spring Break, would now be somewhat stress-filled. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">C and I had made plans to rent a small teardrop camper over break and spend some time camping down in the White Mountains of AZ. We planned to stop in Pine, AZ to visit with Barkley Frozen Ed as well. I even installed a ball hitch on the Subaru, and the wiring harness myself. I was quite proud of my effort. But...all of this was canceled as we realized that it was not a good time to be traveling. It was on that Friday before break, when all of this went down, when the gravity of what was happening was finally settling in. Here in Flagstaff, we had gone quite a while without any active COVID cases. In some ways, it just felt so far away. But by that weekend, we had our first few cases and even our first death. Combined with the University going on-line, and the City declaring a stay-at-home order, it had immediately become so very real.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHt2j2ABkYJ06nwsov5uI36f6wBRbDaj3AqE6NSnw-DYYrgxEh8RauDvqVFaEaXi-p5qbmhNeo7Wb3ezXlMQaSjxTw-uNijj9nLsseCBkYNqAlIeaikRo_z0IIGckDe8CfE5MIT7NirSq/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-13+at+11.27.38+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="581" data-original-width="776" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKHt2j2ABkYJ06nwsov5uI36f6wBRbDaj3AqE6NSnw-DYYrgxEh8RauDvqVFaEaXi-p5qbmhNeo7Wb3ezXlMQaSjxTw-uNijj9nLsseCBkYNqAlIeaikRo_z0IIGckDe8CfE5MIT7NirSq/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-13+at+11.27.38+AM.png" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The camper we booked (and canceled) for Spring Break.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So rather than relax, camp, and otherwise unwind....we found ourselves stuck at home, preparing new course material. I began following coronavirus stats using a <a href="https://coronavirus.1point3acres.com/">COVID-19 Data Portal</a> and watched as state and national levels began climbing at exponential levels. We were beginning to surpass other large nations that were initially considered the hardest hit. It was hard not to get a bit despondent about it all. We tried to stay positive while stuck at home by planting an indoor garden, growing some of our own bean/seed sprouts, and baking bread. A couple of times, I even pulled out my old guitar and strummed a few songs. In some ways, it was a bit exciting to be on a kind of 'lockdown', but that novelty wore off quickly, and the realization that this would be more like a very long remote field deployment...began to weigh on us. Thankfully, despite a city-wide shutdown of all non-essential services, we were still allowed to go out and recreate. So, I could still go running or biking. I also managed to get Scootie McScootface out of storage too, and was able to take some fun spins around town as well. Thank goodness. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">But...we were also learning quickly that grocery stores were becoming barren wastelands. Thankfully we had stocked up early enough that we weren't hit by the scarcity of paper and cleaning products. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0nzs8B-kUUzCH1DcSnd3OQP1zejzG328bUtSzUWBGRiro1g4jrTpna-NdDidmw18rsS83L_EHmpIJSkzGBPZJXOGSSrGYHKKZivS4nD1-PTLZOW1SqmAAtyQ8mjw2wdEECdYkne45T3Hq/s1600/IMG_1748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0nzs8B-kUUzCH1DcSnd3OQP1zejzG328bUtSzUWBGRiro1g4jrTpna-NdDidmw18rsS83L_EHmpIJSkzGBPZJXOGSSrGYHKKZivS4nD1-PTLZOW1SqmAAtyQ8mjw2wdEECdYkne45T3Hq/s400/IMG_1748.JPG" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bean Sprouts!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Mmmmm homemade bread!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Garden!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfyMzxv8NaL-J3ID9lsbyBAw9J3G9Cj6VIZfjO_-JM5zAIo-SM1SOuVp5EZYVnwqHGNDcHDn59LtGMXEJF_P6T7jQagthc_RAs_hra9LorHnfdDVmEiqRCfa0fGWDX4A8LcMKyhwj1l2dI/s1600/IMG_4894.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfyMzxv8NaL-J3ID9lsbyBAw9J3G9Cj6VIZfjO_-JM5zAIo-SM1SOuVp5EZYVnwqHGNDcHDn59LtGMXEJF_P6T7jQagthc_RAs_hra9LorHnfdDVmEiqRCfa0fGWDX4A8LcMKyhwj1l2dI/s400/IMG_4894.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yeah...pretty damn dorky....but hey ¯\_(ツ)_/¯</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Over the first week back after break, we all struggled to get our classes fired up properly on-line, and things were a bit bumpy all around. Eventually we got there, but it was also becoming clear just how many people were losing their jobs (including many of my students), how rents wouldn't be paid, and how the economy in general was going to get hit really, really hard. Unemployment was being projected to top 15%, or even 20%....and all the while we simply weren't getting any clear direction or leadership from our federal government. Somehow the answer was simply to drop national interest rates to 0%, and throw an insane amount of money at various bailout programs. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I wrote a post in an online forum when all this happening about how maybe this would actually start the push for a much needed universal healthcare in the US. One can hope no? Here's what I wrote...</span></div>
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<i>"Here's what gets me. For all the talk of how the US can't afford universal healthcare, with the stroke of a pen, we just wrote a check ($2 trillion) that might have covered over 2/3 the annual cost of all healthcare in the US on average for an entire year...and that's with doing nothing else regarding tax reform etc.</i></div>
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<i>According to the CDC, during 2015, health expenditures per-person were nearly $10,000 on average, with total expenditures of $3.2 trillion.</i></div>
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<i>If we also implement even just a little minor regulation/oversight, as well as some reform to hospital charging/costs models, and a roll back of the last big round of tax cuts, I don't see why we can't absolutely afford a premium universal health care system in the US."</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In public forums, medical and science experts were trying to speak up, but were being drowned out by false statistics, unproven/dangerous medical treatment recommendations, or narcissistic non sequiturs about high TV ratings. US deaths from the new COVID-19 disease were now getting into the thousands, and no one at a national level of authority was making an effort to comfort people, or tell us some simple truths like, "things will be very difficult, but we'll all be here for each other in these times, and we'll make sure our medical staff and facilities are properly taken care of". Nope...nothing like that. There were no unity moments like this. Even local governments were speaking up more about such matters.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">On the running side of the things for me....I was now reduced to what I called "sanity runs". Basically, all social distancing and stay-at-home orders had forced me to stay indoors most of my days. This means my short solo runs would be the only thing keeping my sane. I recall one run where I ran to what was literally the end of an unfinished road. It simply stopped at the woods abruptly. I remember thinking in the vain of Shel Silverstein..."So THIS is where the sidewalk ends...". I saw some Elk roaming around on this run and thought how simple life must be for them right now. Made me a bit envious in some sense.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh862FhHUP19jc4Rvjt9_BupS6q8iZRUpgWB-4Ri1cGmrwvabjTA1L-ncOHRYP3GMLnJAO6P8atX4kYRkPGqutdcc32PNdrSqtKWLEgsGarnn-LjSr8Ghm3ic85ACHLG-SfR2xiZOLD6LmP/s1600/IMG_1793.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh862FhHUP19jc4Rvjt9_BupS6q8iZRUpgWB-4Ri1cGmrwvabjTA1L-ncOHRYP3GMLnJAO6P8atX4kYRkPGqutdcc32PNdrSqtKWLEgsGarnn-LjSr8Ghm3ic85ACHLG-SfR2xiZOLD6LmP/s400/IMG_1793.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Where the sidewalk ended...</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn70FtyT_HF0iPX9U4Wrsz0fwdInBtbTXNwEb1r1MdoUeNN2WoS9Fb8hNoLBQ6Kg6ZER_1aBu4PzRdLt9iHe6xYRvovy_EzM5Jt2Vh5GYVSM1R644lzBdK5k3wsruM1I5kbj1sokj2FR2h/s1600/IMG_1795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn70FtyT_HF0iPX9U4Wrsz0fwdInBtbTXNwEb1r1MdoUeNN2WoS9Fb8hNoLBQ6Kg6ZER_1aBu4PzRdLt9iHe6xYRvovy_EzM5Jt2Vh5GYVSM1R644lzBdK5k3wsruM1I5kbj1sokj2FR2h/s400/IMG_1795.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Some Elk roaming about...</span></div>
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The past couple of weeks things have really brought about some significant changes in all aspects of life. First, all races/runs have been canceled through at least June (including Western States)....along with essentially every other formal gathering or event of any kind. My Boston Marathon date will have to wait, as well as many other plans I had made. As of writing this tonight, the Hardrock 100 is still scheduled for July, but I'm not necessarily optimistic that it will still happen. As my friend Travis pointed out, after having not been in the starting field for Hardrock for 8 years, I may now find myself in the starting field 4 years in a row (because of last year's snow cancelation, and this year's COVID-19 pandemic). I suppose it's still possible by July we'll be able to have a running event like Hardrock, but honestly....there are so many more important things to think about right now that it just seems somewhat insignificant. C and I are just trying to take it one day at a time, and do what we can to stay sane. We have a bedroom blocked off as an "office"/"classroom" now for our scheduled classes....which basically alternate. When we still could, we made a few trips to the humane society and seriously considered adopting a dog.</div>
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I still get out for runs when I can. I recently discovered <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3273569713">Woody Mountain</a> in town and have been making frequent trips up to the fire tower. I also made one full run up <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/3236851265">Mt. Elden</a> in town (which was a bit snowy over the 2000 feet of total climb up to 9200'). But otherwise our routine is almost entirely at home. We make our necessary trips out to get groceries...wearing our face masks of course. Sometimes I'll take Scootie out for an afternoon ride....but mostly we're just thankful that we both still have jobs. So many of our students don't. In addition, many small businesses in town are really in trouble. I can't imagine what it's like in larger cities like NY. </div>
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I watch the statistics pages like a hawk as I have family in both NY and Florida. I have new habits of checking in with them daily (mostly). In many ways, and quite ironically, this has brought us all a bit closer together.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe22DnKp_RezKxvXIE1SpPgnUlnYbT3jc5MUNZsyKb5l-LYZK0qPJk4P6rOd3kbDbBuEREht-iZEWyBBhu4h2sce6fw_U0odR62c1UvNUF7-W4ZvZXogXhGzRM2EoW_mByj9dfBLVLGFCU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-13+at+7.27.36+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="798" data-original-width="1080" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe22DnKp_RezKxvXIE1SpPgnUlnYbT3jc5MUNZsyKb5l-LYZK0qPJk4P6rOd3kbDbBuEREht-iZEWyBBhu4h2sce6fw_U0odR62c1UvNUF7-W4ZvZXogXhGzRM2EoW_mByj9dfBLVLGFCU/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-13+at+7.27.36+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Long run up to Woody Mt. Summit.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjunMDcgHbz89Wmtd-wlhp1ibaeHvlV4HhM5H_znNbp9JCga7Fh03q5BZdeLBuwx6KgDmgQKLQmP2EmyDRYgy8uM1ZQWfZDUwtnBMtRsympM99AI86NjOzbCLgUfASh5l9ZFqVWzt1A9-m/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-04-13+at+7.35.29+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="785" data-original-width="1074" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjunMDcgHbz89Wmtd-wlhp1ibaeHvlV4HhM5H_znNbp9JCga7Fh03q5BZdeLBuwx6KgDmgQKLQmP2EmyDRYgy8uM1ZQWfZDUwtnBMtRsympM99AI86NjOzbCLgUfASh5l9ZFqVWzt1A9-m/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-04-13+at+7.35.29+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Mt. Elden up-n-down</div>
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View of Flagstaff from atop Mt. Elden</div>
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View of San Francisco Peaks from near Woody Mtn.</div>
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Fire road up to Woody Mtn summit</div>
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Summit fire tower on Woody Mtn.</div>
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So here we are. All caught up to today. The US now has the most diagnosed cases and deaths from COVID-19 in the world. Now, like many of you I imagine, C and I are mostly just waiting...and trying to get through the last few weeks of the semester. I have been having long daydreams about thru-hiking, or spending a week camping and hiking 14ers in Colorado. I think about how isolated we've become...how inaccessible everything else now is, and it makes me think back to my silly trek to the <a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2016/07/new-adventures-in-geographical-oddities_20.html">North American Pole of Inaccessibility</a>. Mentally, I'm treating things like a long field deployment to Antarctica. I've been through isolation like this many many times before and have a lot of experience on how to successfully forge through. </div>
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But....That still doesn't make it any easier.</div>
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So. Please stay safe and healthy everyone....and PLEASE keep practicing social distancing. It really does save lives. Listen to, and trust the experts and do what needs to be done even if it stinks right now.</div>
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Don't worry about your 401ks...worry about all the local businesses and people that are struggling now. Order take-out a few nights a week if you can to support them. Leave them a big tip.</div>
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If you don't need your $1200 stimulus check, consider donating to a food bank, or other charity in your town or state that really needs support.</div>
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And lastly, please think of, and thank, all of the medical personnel that are risking their own lives every day to help fight this pandemic. It's easy to forget that they all have families at home too...many of whom they can't even see due to quarantine measures.</div>
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We will come out the other side of this....likely quite different, but I also believe stronger and hopefully more compassionate.</div>
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-j</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG5Jo7VgYwxUTEV71TbOjr5sk3j9-ph6nw7PDZRWBlQIKLFlbW0e2dXWxMBn4rH4BEDc__we6BZyJzF-3i7eBq_iEBglwGw4bkHT5L20PgLWCscrnNBdccqEbB2rQeXbPJfJ70C-JG6Nt8/s1600/IMG_3319.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG5Jo7VgYwxUTEV71TbOjr5sk3j9-ph6nw7PDZRWBlQIKLFlbW0e2dXWxMBn4rH4BEDc__we6BZyJzF-3i7eBq_iEBglwGw4bkHT5L20PgLWCscrnNBdccqEbB2rQeXbPJfJ70C-JG6Nt8/s400/IMG_3319.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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North American Pole of Inaccessiblity</div>
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(really inaccessible now)</div>
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The most remote place I've ever been. Just 4 people in tents in Antarctica.</div>
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Over 50 miles away from the larger camp of ~40 people (WAIS Divide).</div>
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Over a 700 miles from McMurdo Station.</div>
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Several thousand miles from the nearest real town.</div>
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If I can overcome that isolation, I can overcome this isolation.</div>
Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-34336853938837951432020-02-24T14:15:00.000-05:002020-02-26T16:35:48.789-05:002019 in Review: A Year of Transitions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFVB4xbro5Bs9DhNKsptQXyQ_63gY-Z4Q-OXgKEw7td4PrbLRVirNDjtiEELGe1KSY1Xwcju_sfpbissbYQXHCPnavfW73R-NA_ak8Xf8084JC1JwIjX9mxnsoLtyIOuRx7sm9_LgywJT/s1600/79327657_10157281390508515_3873656327389577216_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQFVB4xbro5Bs9DhNKsptQXyQ_63gY-Z4Q-OXgKEw7td4PrbLRVirNDjtiEELGe1KSY1Xwcju_sfpbissbYQXHCPnavfW73R-NA_ak8Xf8084JC1JwIjX9mxnsoLtyIOuRx7sm9_LgywJT/s400/79327657_10157281390508515_3873656327389577216_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Looking out towards the Grand Canyon</div>
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In trying to come up with my overall thoughts on 2019, it really seemed like the only fitting way to encapsulate the general theme was with that of the "New Chapter/Transitions" cliché. While it's true that I had many many new and exciting experiences last year, the general trajectory of my year really involved saying a lot of "goodbyes", hanging up some hats,...and moving through some very large major transitions. I suppose in a way, we're all always moving from one chapter to the next, but I can't help but feel that 2019 represented one of my largest transitional years to date.</div>
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<b>2019 in Review:</b></div>
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Not unlike many of my years over the past decade, 2019 started off with another Antarctic Research Adventure. What made this one so unique however, was that this particular deployment was not to any ice coring site high up on an Antarctic ice sheet, but rather to a remote location at sea aboard a very large vessel. Back in late 2018, I applied to take part in an International Ocean Discovery Program sea-floor drilling expedition aboard the JOIDES Resolution ship. Normally, this type of expedition would not really align with my research or scientific interests, but in this particular case, the scientific questions that the expedition was seeking to address had to do with the history of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet (something that does interest me). So, after having submitted my application, I was incredibly excited to find out that I was invited to join the team. </div>
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In early January, I took 2 months off of my job at the Cold Regions Lab in Hanover, New Hampshire, headed down to Punta Arenas Chile, and boarded the large vessel for what would be two very long months at sea.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">LINK: <a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2019/01/off-on-another-antarctic-adventure.html">Off On Another Antarctic Adventure</a></span></b></div>
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Over the course of the next 8 weeks, I had one of the most amazing and unique experiences of my life, working long hours as part of the scientific expedition party. I worked 12-hour days, 7 days a week, logging the physical properties of every core recovered from the sea floor, all while trying to maintain some semblance of a normal routine and avoid motion sickness from constant rough seas. I saw the most amazing icebergs floating off the bow of the ship, watched pods of humpback whales breach the ocean surface, laid out on the deck of the ship at night to witness the most amazing star-filled sky I've ever seen, and even ran a 660-loop marathon along the heli-deck. I made new friendships, and established new research collaborations which I hope will stay with me for years to come. Of course with all of these positive experiences came long exhausting hours, some sleep deprivation, many days of homesickness, and of course the uneasy effects of an ever-sloshing boat in some of the roughest waters on earth. Our expedition as a whole was fairly successful and we were able to recover over a thousand meters of sediment from the sea floor. Our team wrote up our entire findings while on ship, so we were able to come away with publication from the endeavor to boot. We did learn a lot about the past behavior of West Antarctica by looking at what was deposited just off shore. Below are some highlight photos as well as my Strava Track for the Heli-Deck Marathon:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibOKBJ90ShSk9gPD22JYw0peNm6-Z1sVIx0lOImS78VHLz116V4TRHQHOcDpgHnVIh-Fbsc2L9RDHF8S04fJtc4e6l4XNYg6-N2kq3SQBm_qFj5HcFscLASMXDGccks-cx9wwPl4Mwi7BH/s1600/51479897_10156553701973515_1084926880911458304_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibOKBJ90ShSk9gPD22JYw0peNm6-Z1sVIx0lOImS78VHLz116V4TRHQHOcDpgHnVIh-Fbsc2L9RDHF8S04fJtc4e6l4XNYg6-N2kq3SQBm_qFj5HcFscLASMXDGccks-cx9wwPl4Mwi7BH/s400/51479897_10156553701973515_1084926880911458304_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The JOIDES Resolution in the Southern Ocean (Drone Footage)</div>
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Large Iceberg</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgKzjVQ3MVrB7M-uUhEDcOA0B00yYFn8Jxs63OJ4Gx1W6LaHvJcKq-xPXXtqi9pH7_GseCZWD14eNjz_lhj7rd9Zk0bwPGIPptxWDO6nQFwsC7oi8pP9fo1hkuT24YVqqlDKyaVv3Y4Rh9/s1600/52111510_10156578076608515_8416340122793934848_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgKzjVQ3MVrB7M-uUhEDcOA0B00yYFn8Jxs63OJ4Gx1W6LaHvJcKq-xPXXtqi9pH7_GseCZWD14eNjz_lhj7rd9Zk0bwPGIPptxWDO6nQFwsC7oi8pP9fo1hkuT24YVqqlDKyaVv3Y4Rh9/s400/52111510_10156578076608515_8416340122793934848_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Humpback Whale</div>
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Another massive tabular iceberg</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTlG4fPvbOu4yK3XG8t_X1Gs_61nXmmaOhZJulqMOJ45_RXl_HJR-ls4_5Uzlo3zQgFGPXzpxF6Gh-Xzk9nZklio48Q8Bu2GbQjt_YWPiCqv7jlRei0ZJMviUW7wb7d33apYUFZOAlRtOk/s1600/53003691_10156614908353515_4036326740551794688_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1236" data-original-width="1600" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTlG4fPvbOu4yK3XG8t_X1Gs_61nXmmaOhZJulqMOJ45_RXl_HJR-ls4_5Uzlo3zQgFGPXzpxF6Gh-Xzk9nZklio48Q8Bu2GbQjt_YWPiCqv7jlRei0ZJMviUW7wb7d33apYUFZOAlRtOk/s400/53003691_10156614908353515_4036326740551794688_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Science Party for my Expedition</div>
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Some sediment cores </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYK4wEZrIhJrUjWvF_NjPry23_ZJFqFZ3OWByiSXo0SkTkhPn48iwJER_ZWLpjCztnOBDbFtgpLNYv_g6jJsMuvgw1zWt_Twu-sr8ohKuzV7CqIH2a_w3JiQOlWwKTYnpz914XnF1-7_53/s1600/IMG_0065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYK4wEZrIhJrUjWvF_NjPry23_ZJFqFZ3OWByiSXo0SkTkhPn48iwJER_ZWLpjCztnOBDbFtgpLNYv_g6jJsMuvgw1zWt_Twu-sr8ohKuzV7CqIH2a_w3JiQOlWwKTYnpz914XnF1-7_53/s400/IMG_0065.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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On the Deck</div>
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Sampling a core</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIryJJG1xMKbRqukGNqPMt5ynwV3VYQU2grXOXE2QSYx71fM5Oro9g0sQEpyfADh_YsSLKdICkYqgrWupnkQlYJ9DnitHizgL33SGUKJdbG_46w0CUqKSFJCQfbrzsXyAevzbTSBuYwMIT/s1600/IMG_0102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIryJJG1xMKbRqukGNqPMt5ynwV3VYQU2grXOXE2QSYx71fM5Oro9g0sQEpyfADh_YsSLKdICkYqgrWupnkQlYJ9DnitHizgL33SGUKJdbG_46w0CUqKSFJCQfbrzsXyAevzbTSBuYwMIT/s400/IMG_0102.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Weighing a sample</div>
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Using Gamma Ray Attenuation to measure density</div>
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Sunset off of the bow</div>
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The drilling derricks</div>
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Sunset on the last day at sea</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFDQJw6Q_OxRYeo8O1HPzg8gX6aJdl3Vny2apM_toDHjkZlbEiRiNIyJlGcace8alnhrE1zEydgUXBQD7c2a7DEXjPVW_O5PJFMmd5Ikl1Jh2cMRfoDQ8BbOa0CM2LYa1T2-BrOSbAQVk/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+3.20.09+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="695" data-original-width="1108" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFDQJw6Q_OxRYeo8O1HPzg8gX6aJdl3Vny2apM_toDHjkZlbEiRiNIyJlGcace8alnhrE1zEydgUXBQD7c2a7DEXjPVW_O5PJFMmd5Ikl1Jh2cMRfoDQ8BbOa0CM2LYa1T2-BrOSbAQVk/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+3.20.09+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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The heli-deck (red arrows)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2TTcm-m9SUe_cyr4hsNZLqPNEzA1GGPlAi4thI5My-SHQBhawwsPOkH-SomFf4Yf_S9Z8mDbTA-AkicpZHJ0mfVrJgYX-ATO4WsA9OKb25Rk7cHGNsuUIvgjvbDc7Q2uOLtrRnLoESw5A/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+3.20.20+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="858" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2TTcm-m9SUe_cyr4hsNZLqPNEzA1GGPlAi4thI5My-SHQBhawwsPOkH-SomFf4Yf_S9Z8mDbTA-AkicpZHJ0mfVrJgYX-ATO4WsA9OKb25Rk7cHGNsuUIvgjvbDc7Q2uOLtrRnLoESw5A/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+3.20.20+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Calculations for my marathon</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjcpPyGQAGQMtzCgxvQNCk_E1-s5IcDntkLAX8xhJR3DNuCrfxcYECTrxJPzAB7n6b0fI1EbPdqm_6ZnZ3DroqL0zL-3aLCwHW967I-cacLxoOuX9qFMjP8vATD2bM8jVtHWs5ixACVRp/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+3.20.26+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="1174" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjcpPyGQAGQMtzCgxvQNCk_E1-s5IcDntkLAX8xhJR3DNuCrfxcYECTrxJPzAB7n6b0fI1EbPdqm_6ZnZ3DroqL0zL-3aLCwHW967I-cacLxoOuX9qFMjP8vATD2bM8jVtHWs5ixACVRp/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+3.20.26+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Actual Heli-deck (Site of my marathon)</div>
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<b><u>STRAVA:</u> <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2191808194">Inaugural JOIDES Heli-Deck Antarctic Marathon!</a></b></div>
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Upon returning from the Antarctic, I had a little trouble re-adjusting...and things were moving quickly. While on the ship, I had come to learn that I had been asked to interview for a new academic position. This left me very little time to prepare as I didn't have reliable internet while on the expedition. As much as I wanted to kick back and relax a bit after the cruise, I had to immediately step it up notch to prepare my best job talk to date.</div>
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March and April were somewhat of a blur. I was trying to maintain my fitness for a fast (Boston-Qualify) marathon that I had coming up at the end of April with a good friend of mine, but was also now in panic mode over my short-notice interview. C and I decided to take a few days up at a cabin in the woods of New Hampshire to unwind before powering through the month. We spent two nights up near Crawford Notch and played around Bridal Veils Falls. It was nice to be back with C, and not be working a 12-hour shift on a large boat thousands of miles away. Something I had also remembered in all of the chaos of March was that I had agreed to Crew for friend and fellow Barker John Kelly at the full Barkley race on fools weekend. This meant somehow in the upcoming few weeks I need to prep for the biggest interview of my life, try to maintain at least a 50-mile week fitness level, and prep everything necessary to get JK through five loops again. Needless to say, I savored the 2 days of relaxation and meditation in the cabin, knowing what was to come. </div>
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Once back home, I ran a 21 mile long run on the Boston Marathon course, prepped for my big interview, and began sorting the logistics for JK's Barkley run. Somehow, it still felt like a lot less work when compared to the shifts on the ship.</div>
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Regarding the interview...</div>
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I did manage to put together a pretty darn good talk and was able to do all the necessary research on the existing faculty in the department...so that I could come prepared with the very best version of myself. C and I flew out to Flagstaff and spent a few days in town while I went through 2-days of intense, non-stop interviewing. I managed to get in a nice 15-mile run in town once the dust settled, and all I could think while on that run was, 'I would so love to live here. I hope I get this job!" We even took a short drive up and over to Barringer Meteor Crater near Winslow AZ. This is one of those places I've wanted to see since I was in grade school, so was extremely excited to be there.</div>
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As you probably already know reading this... I did get that job....but much more on that later...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggajprbkZnlLntR6wgU3puoVLjiXDOQmMVfNkzNEwsI7ChJMShJZQlte8Xx6IR1PAVJykL2-Jsbyf9A-DjkvcseOHM2XZP951XSn8EW-JrvJxt2WYM7xoAcgwqepg4EJuEHUlya1Uv_Rqq/s1600/54526553_10156693721018515_8504143977472065536_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="525" data-original-width="1600" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggajprbkZnlLntR6wgU3puoVLjiXDOQmMVfNkzNEwsI7ChJMShJZQlte8Xx6IR1PAVJykL2-Jsbyf9A-DjkvcseOHM2XZP951XSn8EW-JrvJxt2WYM7xoAcgwqepg4EJuEHUlya1Uv_Rqq/s400/54526553_10156693721018515_8504143977472065536_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Playing at Bridal Veils Falls, NH</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJWiPRhGSYb_ullYNIajhCsCmBWiu73-wwKmBJC2AcH0wuQE9wJQk_Rz9mqzK_XxnU9NOlBfFYV94CSnmi5UN_NhlVWGlW1GYxZ4F8mT6bcIBZFGDcDiK2Sj_S1GZUn7kfPzWCTl57lR08/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+8.24.35+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="596" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJWiPRhGSYb_ullYNIajhCsCmBWiu73-wwKmBJC2AcH0wuQE9wJQk_Rz9mqzK_XxnU9NOlBfFYV94CSnmi5UN_NhlVWGlW1GYxZ4F8mT6bcIBZFGDcDiK2Sj_S1GZUn7kfPzWCTl57lR08/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+8.24.35+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Dreams of ice climbing...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8g_5pc_GiuJQwsAV2R767DJ8YP0zdCHwCQ9zAr8IjanYflSfTe8KrTcnXgWYQeBO7oYKIBvmgCEEAgLCuQus6-gfIqKCceAwhnW7mwqio-PJ7TucUtuGSdd4d7imfIc20zKzv-tLczeF/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+8.24.16+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="593" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8g_5pc_GiuJQwsAV2R767DJ8YP0zdCHwCQ9zAr8IjanYflSfTe8KrTcnXgWYQeBO7oYKIBvmgCEEAgLCuQus6-gfIqKCceAwhnW7mwqio-PJ7TucUtuGSdd4d7imfIc20zKzv-tLczeF/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+8.24.16+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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My annual pilgrimage to Frozen Head</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgP533sW8n3dm5A_fHQ98RlJLRMupZh9A3tn42hfQs7Ua6pi4-fNcfK1vUlXOg8a3-6RXBv_XYVtfGNq01o4QxCbfgmy0OQ3rz-OEGEtyWbLGQ9w4p9gUHJ9hEzzgDO01qVffaVVAPYVty/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+8.24.23+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="582" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgP533sW8n3dm5A_fHQ98RlJLRMupZh9A3tn42hfQs7Ua6pi4-fNcfK1vUlXOg8a3-6RXBv_XYVtfGNq01o4QxCbfgmy0OQ3rz-OEGEtyWbLGQ9w4p9gUHJ9hEzzgDO01qVffaVVAPYVty/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+8.24.23+PM.png" width="387" /></a></div>
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I finally framed my 2012 Barkley memories</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPwSnSeTK1eNJ5RWSi6xtLtc0q6o-fSOsSDB2Gp2B0VuR3xdF8s-aIOgw7xqz-FeEJfmYADIoTDMvBb3wDpgcz9e1Wpi6TNI9s2HezP6gEasEn750fCfdFnOY-baAHcPcO6v6DKplN0XX/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+8.50.03+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1062" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPwSnSeTK1eNJ5RWSi6xtLtc0q6o-fSOsSDB2Gp2B0VuR3xdF8s-aIOgw7xqz-FeEJfmYADIoTDMvBb3wDpgcz9e1Wpi6TNI9s2HezP6gEasEn750fCfdFnOY-baAHcPcO6v6DKplN0XX/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+8.50.03+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>LINK: STRAVA: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2234612908">Boston 21 Miler</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPCFSi_8HGp9FhQnAL8z2b2mT1JZntuh-ewywpi-uRZo5LQaCdi_TjnPZ8jlOrjmYS6rWYIRxerYf5Ovh309DnEwp5rvDKAjbenOO5IGWg0VydEnf4mqi1EUVLAZwUxmUfIjyle3GbR2Y/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+8.50.20+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1061" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSPCFSi_8HGp9FhQnAL8z2b2mT1JZntuh-ewywpi-uRZo5LQaCdi_TjnPZ8jlOrjmYS6rWYIRxerYf5Ovh309DnEwp5rvDKAjbenOO5IGWg0VydEnf4mqi1EUVLAZwUxmUfIjyle3GbR2Y/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+8.50.20+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>LINK: STRAVA: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2234612908">Frozen Head Hike at Barkley</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wd4yGVZqWlovWXsp1h7PobTPsK6n6IBBHQH97Z9WCA1L1MVe8Qh2xHHPZiLJuw9aYKTSEJkdeOWaVAcwutFah8Jsae-9JcMarSVu6UwwVo3dcuYKLq-1yVGEfPqV1W98CJFj3d9msgCY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+8.49.34+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="1069" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4wd4yGVZqWlovWXsp1h7PobTPsK6n6IBBHQH97Z9WCA1L1MVe8Qh2xHHPZiLJuw9aYKTSEJkdeOWaVAcwutFah8Jsae-9JcMarSVu6UwwVo3dcuYKLq-1yVGEfPqV1W98CJFj3d9msgCY/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-01-26+at+8.49.34+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>LINK: STRAVA: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2288009345">Loop Around Flagstaff</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8OeaVwLg45aRvE0z5cDotZmpzFEbcfkbkUNLASzCmSbybdLb2_jdmODLxFujDXXivdX0T89UgAB8CUpsKbPu9H_53fTqiguhEh-xLdZmKnUabtN3uFj1sSf_Wr04fKZBgDnlFKIVioL7G/s1600/IMG_0554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8OeaVwLg45aRvE0z5cDotZmpzFEbcfkbkUNLASzCmSbybdLb2_jdmODLxFujDXXivdX0T89UgAB8CUpsKbPu9H_53fTqiguhEh-xLdZmKnUabtN3uFj1sSf_Wr04fKZBgDnlFKIVioL7G/s400/IMG_0554.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Barringer Meteor Crater</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg02HhexoJMNwRpa9xfFy3hU5hzJAynwIzrBkS59oVHHi5nUNFHhWpCVa2gVDs82ZawCwbywQWyJLPwiRAKa3JqHXce1aEJD2EG67XgHmDOb5PRCeoPgB6e_kYpkhfErwKMuRtySOtObZTx/s1600/IMG_0527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg02HhexoJMNwRpa9xfFy3hU5hzJAynwIzrBkS59oVHHi5nUNFHhWpCVa2gVDs82ZawCwbywQWyJLPwiRAKa3JqHXce1aEJD2EG67XgHmDOb5PRCeoPgB6e_kYpkhfErwKMuRtySOtObZTx/s400/IMG_0527.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Woot! Now that's a crater!</div>
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After playing around in Frozen Head with JK, I was finally back home trying to catch up on work and running. While I was waiting to hear back about my job interview, I did sneak away to run a 10k and volunteer at the TARC Spring Classic. It rained most of the day, but was still a blast. A few weeks later, my friend Melissa and I flew out to Vegas to run the Revel Mt. Charleston Road Race. This is admittedly a very fast downhill course, but I wanted to try to qualify for Boston again and was willing to take any advantage I could. I knew that the BAA had upped their qualify times, so in order to genuinely qualify, I would have to at least run a 3:10, but probably more like a 3:07. My PR was a 3:06, so it was going to be tough.<br />
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I ended up running a sub 8-min/mile trail 10k at TARC which gave me a little confidence boost heading into Vegas.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJFrF0-32caKkhECRCglIxCmfDwE9ofSpYGf4t2j7MOX0gIOgggVeoQ6cvNu81xbBgnIoEK9QocO0QZIjkCqZhhC7Ipvdq3cl9d34RzvLdvWArnOweG9QhpgcRIYcU-k_cvSisiujdbt_/s1600/57441799_2592389250789513_8570693958852673536_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJFrF0-32caKkhECRCglIxCmfDwE9ofSpYGf4t2j7MOX0gIOgggVeoQ6cvNu81xbBgnIoEK9QocO0QZIjkCqZhhC7Ipvdq3cl9d34RzvLdvWArnOweG9QhpgcRIYcU-k_cvSisiujdbt_/s400/57441799_2592389250789513_8570693958852673536_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Volunteering at the rainy Spring Classic</div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2305691511">STRAVA: TARC Spring 10K</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixeCyxJ7IdI-uRfskotjznBV1t9fAFGSLkKvUC3ZpLc2kKbsXBzvNUFcfXqdrwLmdIxlS4vwoAS74YAak9_yfs8IETYLzRqTE-89D1EY7B2HxsVisbVfmKPlk7F_r8AEd-pD_BIHZKctH9/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-04+at+10.03.07+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="498" data-original-width="1072" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixeCyxJ7IdI-uRfskotjznBV1t9fAFGSLkKvUC3ZpLc2kKbsXBzvNUFcfXqdrwLmdIxlS4vwoAS74YAak9_yfs8IETYLzRqTE-89D1EY7B2HxsVisbVfmKPlk7F_r8AEd-pD_BIHZKctH9/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-04+at+10.03.07+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Good day out on the trails</div>
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As I traveled out to Vegas, I kept trying to tell myself not to be stupid, and just shoot for that 3:07. Don't try and get that elusive sub-3 that I've always so desperately wanted. But as I'm sure you can already guess by the tone....I did run stupidly, and it almost cost me a qualifier.</div>
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Quick Race Recap for Vegas:</div>
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The race started out with a modest hill for the first 1/2 mile. I kept it somewhat chill and watched my heart rate. As soon as we crested though, I went bonkers. For over 22 miles I averaged sub-7 minute pace...and it was glorious. I PR'd my half-marathon time at the split for the marathon in 1:28. As the long descent gradually leveled out, I kept thinking to myself..."Do I really still feel this good? Am I actually going to break 3 hours?!"</div>
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But no.... I wasn't. As I made the turn just after mile 22 towards town, still averaging sub-7 pace, the course began to introduce some very small climbs. In addition, the temps had risen to over 80 degrees and about the time I hit the 23-mile aid station, I felt myself catastrophically bonking. It was over. I tried desperately to gut it out but as soon as I saw the 3:00 hr pacers trot past me effortlessly while I was hunched over chugging some water, I knew I had lost it. I ended up having to walk a small amount in those last 3 miles and it cost me over 6 minutes of time.</div>
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When I finally did cross the finish line, my time was 3:06:53. So, in some sense, I got exactly the time I was shooting for, and likely would be returning to Boston...but I still couldn't help feel incredibly defeated and upset. With a little more training, I think I could have gone sub 3.</div>
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After a few hours, I came around, and started celebrating at the fact that I'd likely be returning to Boston (assuming my BQ-3 would be enough). Despite the last 3-miles of misery, and that I had to endure the discomfort of ....Vegas....it was a really good experience that I got to share with a good friend.</div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2323418707">STRAVA: Revel Mt. Charleston</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3oVppa6-YtPNRrJ_oGalDmi25LfqK7dggRMvdjQC6IkIHQqyKWzqw7U7iFNvVLbBBgaQZVpom8_VEHcElfeHcFUyXJ7yO4SzfrPUsaX7f_od6lRUQu4wOZ0PFDg-24Ng1MkcF-59GcLi5/s1600/59904514_10156756588298515_698428585035169792_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="533" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3oVppa6-YtPNRrJ_oGalDmi25LfqK7dggRMvdjQC6IkIHQqyKWzqw7U7iFNvVLbBBgaQZVpom8_VEHcElfeHcFUyXJ7yO4SzfrPUsaX7f_od6lRUQu4wOZ0PFDg-24Ng1MkcF-59GcLi5/s400/59904514_10156756588298515_698428585035169792_n.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
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Somewhere around mile 24. Utter Misery</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxZ-tjIwGOLKi6CCwL6mZNWlzqktJedwIGsBRhIvhMuJp0b6QKPXLCB-D_x99Ucs96wtsoS2oAl91gJsxEGCfLLCsmj2mYIYua2oUZOArqGh3vjHzvlsmY3ToWcYUXslVMQdfdfBXwG0q/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-04+at+10.06.56+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="804" data-original-width="1108" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxZ-tjIwGOLKi6CCwL6mZNWlzqktJedwIGsBRhIvhMuJp0b6QKPXLCB-D_x99Ucs96wtsoS2oAl91gJsxEGCfLLCsmj2mYIYua2oUZOArqGh3vjHzvlsmY3ToWcYUXslVMQdfdfBXwG0q/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-04+at+10.06.56+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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You can see the exact moment I fell apart...Mile 23</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingcUAFlbg2KD9O4bRCnIyI0OwGmT8md-pLq8N7NCo79kftzNknbe4OG3hfj0TCUXBzxAkj8l46qCKxS32IiD2WrrTTxdX4PPIcBUDql-FvxTzizty2uC643qU76Ex4F90yRZhrjO3hn2T/s1600/58380962_10157194168994133_7944613165910720512_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEingcUAFlbg2KD9O4bRCnIyI0OwGmT8md-pLq8N7NCo79kftzNknbe4OG3hfj0TCUXBzxAkj8l46qCKxS32IiD2WrrTTxdX4PPIcBUDql-FvxTzizty2uC643qU76Ex4F90yRZhrjO3hn2T/s400/58380962_10157194168994133_7944613165910720512_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Me and Melissa Celebrating our finishes</div>
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As April progressed I soon came to learn that I was being offered a new position in Flagstaff. My job interview was a success. C and I of course were ecstatic, but it also meant that the Summer was going to be incredibly hectic and require an enormous move...from essentially two apartments. I was still keeping a small place up in Vermont for when I was working in the lab, in addition to our bigger place in Boston. Assuming we did decide to move, it was going to require a lot of logistical planning, a very long road trip, and probably a lot of headaches.</div>
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As we were negotiating our situation, and me starting the conversations at my current job...I was still trying to get in some of my favorite runs on the side. In the first couple weeks of May, I headed home to Rochester NY to visit with family and to run the Mind The Ducks 12 hr event again. I had no intention of running it seriously, or for the full 12 hours, but really just wanted to spend a good part of the day with friends and enjoying my home town. Knowing I was likely moving very far out west, I couldn't help but think it may be the last time I'd be running the course. I certainly would not be visiting Rochester as much as I did while in New England (where it was only a 6 hour drive away).</div>
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At MTD, I took it easy, and enjoyed the day. I ended up running 44 miles before deciding I had enough. I spent the rest of the day hanging out with my nephew and just relaxing with family. It was a great way to tip my hat to MTD...a race that I've really enjoyed over the past 5 years. </div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2360107416">STRAVA: Mind The Ducks</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb7pgr8mvzG7AF4byI8eNLyeJgHXk1aAIjoHiDZoxbuISv8wrUIIeozSzY3_hXKBiubucij5bUuz89T1t-TIQgaS64nk6EAq4-kB-perydYebohEdW_h9GJJlwDY3cL0akE9MXtkqowlz2/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-07+at+10.38.56+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="1074" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb7pgr8mvzG7AF4byI8eNLyeJgHXk1aAIjoHiDZoxbuISv8wrUIIeozSzY3_hXKBiubucij5bUuz89T1t-TIQgaS64nk6EAq4-kB-perydYebohEdW_h9GJJlwDY3cL0akE9MXtkqowlz2/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-07+at+10.38.56+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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MTD loop in Webster NY (my hometown)</div>
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The very next week, I made my 7th pilgrimage to another event that I have come to cherish. <span style="text-align: center;">Up in the northwest corner of the tiny state of New Jersey, there exists a bucolic rural county: Sussex. In this part of New Jersey where the largest "town" has a population less than half of a typical baseball stadium (~20k), arguably the biggest attraction is the state high point monument which sits at a modest 1803 ft, and is marked with a Washington-Monument-style obelisk (only much, much smaller). </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgViRcNgFA04h7xvGVA6UsRC3jHROB3Ajl-hTPgqlTVn6ZM5UF4dh2b8f5e_UgexQU6pa4HpIutHlz1bcaxzHvFARqu6uvVmF8MphJXgA_pmj0Wa35zX62mRtgzKnJP5pmy-6Ls2qhgAOGn/s1600/IMG_1886.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgViRcNgFA04h7xvGVA6UsRC3jHROB3Ajl-hTPgqlTVn6ZM5UF4dh2b8f5e_UgexQU6pa4HpIutHlz1bcaxzHvFARqu6uvVmF8MphJXgA_pmj0Wa35zX62mRtgzKnJP5pmy-6Ls2qhgAOGn/s400/IMG_1886.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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NJ Highpoint visit in 2013</div>
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I visited this spot back in 2013 early on in my quest to hit all state high points. Back then, I only had a handful (I now sit at 42/51 including DC). So why do I bring up this seemingly insignificant back corner of the country? Well because nestled within this small corner, is a an even smaller unincorporated community known as Augusta, which at last census had a total population of 887. This community is home to the quaint Sussex County fairgrounds...which at first glance is really just a collection of a few buildings, and horse stables. Upon further inspection, one might notice a loop road that circles the western edge of the fairgrounds. It just so happens, that if you start to draw out a path from the center of the grounds, out and around that road and back again, you can create loop that is exactly 1 mile in length.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQTimu8RZRPpfHRrSg4IFpjjVqRGiD3Ww49ShO9WPSlpPisTOvIU80kA_MgOq4fuBVv2xMC0hqnFaitWlb9vuGL0R6qi5ImQQIt3pY9-V6WIbkeeVH1Xl3HjXjpYb4gZI1EXKZG9Yd7Cm/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-06-03+at+6.56.35+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="805" data-original-width="1106" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQTimu8RZRPpfHRrSg4IFpjjVqRGiD3Ww49ShO9WPSlpPisTOvIU80kA_MgOq4fuBVv2xMC0hqnFaitWlb9vuGL0R6qi5ImQQIt3pY9-V6WIbkeeVH1Xl3HjXjpYb4gZI1EXKZG9Yd7Cm/s400/Screen+Shot+2019-06-03+at+6.56.35+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sussex County NJ</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4DfjxUDHLgNhjhSVY0G9FRq5xXACiIz1gPH0kk93yguXR-WAQRweUs0AeOKk1EnwzV0ofGbdmRvogus9ZzZE6w8LXcnecke8j-9UDJuoFJS80paSop1v5SKeVg70Mu33Df2dSGBPZK2J/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-06-03+at+6.56.49+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="1084" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4DfjxUDHLgNhjhSVY0G9FRq5xXACiIz1gPH0kk93yguXR-WAQRweUs0AeOKk1EnwzV0ofGbdmRvogus9ZzZE6w8LXcnecke8j-9UDJuoFJS80paSop1v5SKeVg70Mu33Df2dSGBPZK2J/s400/Screen+Shot+2019-06-03+at+6.56.49+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Fairgrounds amongst the rural farm community</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGsMhDbQGx8FjpH7BdPrcdszfAJvf5kaACUqpn9Ng31gyvGzLhHfV6BATqIeBNEWAcd7F8Yfod5XgTQmshRxjJoEZZ8ck1TpLzg1HuevxdPeGLa978bGnzn0kUgEVhTsxSsqJD6QHoKp9/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-06-03+at+6.57.11+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="906" data-original-width="1093" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGsMhDbQGx8FjpH7BdPrcdszfAJvf5kaACUqpn9Ng31gyvGzLhHfV6BATqIeBNEWAcd7F8Yfod5XgTQmshRxjJoEZZ8ck1TpLzg1HuevxdPeGLa978bGnzn0kUgEVhTsxSsqJD6QHoKp9/s400/Screen+Shot+2019-06-03+at+6.57.11+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Fairgrounds zoomed in</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVOJ49IvycjiZLNed1Pt-8rOFjvvZY_qmpBisnBNnrK9OSrclSrxHEpfQldS_kjqAGWx6Jy33Ut8zUtkCu2jNRRjtfOFJ4QZnOUeo9f0LRTkDRisCKfLi9p5fjeM7fxmY-VsOuJCzfulwp/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-06-03+at+6.57.11+PM+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="906" data-original-width="1093" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVOJ49IvycjiZLNed1Pt-8rOFjvvZY_qmpBisnBNnrK9OSrclSrxHEpfQldS_kjqAGWx6Jy33Ut8zUtkCu2jNRRjtfOFJ4QZnOUeo9f0LRTkDRisCKfLi9p5fjeM7fxmY-VsOuJCzfulwp/s400/Screen+Shot+2019-06-03+at+6.57.11+PM+2.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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It turns out, that I have spent almost 20 full days of my life circling that single 1-mile loop, covering over 1303 total miles on foot. To put that into perspective, that is half of the distance I covered on the entire Pacific Crest Trail, on a single one-mile loop. The event is called "3 Days at the Fair". As I noted, I have been participating in this event every year since 2013. Typically, I would run the 72hr event, but this year, I only wanted to spend a day there enjoying the company of friends....again knowing that it might be a while before I return (if ever). Looking through my awards from that event, I realized I still hadn't received their 50k coin, so I opted to run two 50k's. It was a big success, and 62.2 miles later I had amassed my 1303 lifetime miles. I was quite content at to be able to spend a day with friends, and making loops on course I had become so very familiar with. If you count the miles I have run on the same course at the One-Day events in November, I have actually amassed over 1500 miles along that single 1-mile loop in rural New Jersey. Quite ridiculous if you think about it.</div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2381021337">STRAVA: 3 Days at the Fair 50k #1</a></b></div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2381021834">STRAVA: 3 Days at the Fair 50k #2</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSCz-VzcJZ7Tf3zVOMP4X6QNsQzmgYafXI9G8g-yZkM5AjjSTfvJz_wDtji20CAzNAepnksjXK_SMmLgaStJ1MhdGIwE5f_JvPZ75xWa-6z0_Jjw5l_ldWN_UNmOtZ4lf9U4yUazQ6UFwU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-07+at+10.39.38+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="489" data-original-width="1073" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSCz-VzcJZ7Tf3zVOMP4X6QNsQzmgYafXI9G8g-yZkM5AjjSTfvJz_wDtji20CAzNAepnksjXK_SMmLgaStJ1MhdGIwE5f_JvPZ75xWa-6z0_Jjw5l_ldWN_UNmOtZ4lf9U4yUazQ6UFwU/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-07+at+10.39.38+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Over 1500 total miles on this loop....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZqnq3r_QOmJE3LBEOBDikpwI4K6I5eH4Ir63244KKrP9hrDnt0abGLV68cR_n2Zv-fbicWQqr-bhHHubDyXxnxjNfO-wFJY9d0lzLwaQjyQG4Ke6Vcd7v7OebSG9xsVNhe5zt7EbaV3zN/s1600/IMG_6545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="1280" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZqnq3r_QOmJE3LBEOBDikpwI4K6I5eH4Ir63244KKrP9hrDnt0abGLV68cR_n2Zv-fbicWQqr-bhHHubDyXxnxjNfO-wFJY9d0lzLwaQjyQG4Ke6Vcd7v7OebSG9xsVNhe5zt7EbaV3zN/s400/IMG_6545.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Circling the NJ Fairgrounds</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmr5F0wwg74A-6lIbZSoteh2WMMNfLsQj7fZhzapXnidUzDdtPDHQlLfB4YX_UW9dkHi4C0Zi8kTqm1V5JwEUWuMLp4jtpIBukYUSIanQvccWdBT8diY8wKeibELMw2vjentFAWnU4Pmn/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-07+at+10.43.00+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="442" data-original-width="1060" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmr5F0wwg74A-6lIbZSoteh2WMMNfLsQj7fZhzapXnidUzDdtPDHQlLfB4YX_UW9dkHi4C0Zi8kTqm1V5JwEUWuMLp4jtpIBukYUSIanQvccWdBT8diY8wKeibELMw2vjentFAWnU4Pmn/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-07+at+10.43.00+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Lifetime miles at the event puts me in 13 overall place</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxmvc5bNSHSWDj7ZF4t0vZhPyEqhNNvKXHdePPGUuT4bJ36VYUlvPdmzrgSeiULKP62-dodH3-Xz_s_86qk5L8cLGq9r1Uh8yD-ux69UT-uARIR9q5TSFr42SelJ3BlHdpyujWs6ccgwvf/s1600/IMG_0666.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1231" data-original-width="1600" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxmvc5bNSHSWDj7ZF4t0vZhPyEqhNNvKXHdePPGUuT4bJ36VYUlvPdmzrgSeiULKP62-dodH3-Xz_s_86qk5L8cLGq9r1Uh8yD-ux69UT-uARIR9q5TSFr42SelJ3BlHdpyujWs6ccgwvf/s400/IMG_0666.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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All of my 3 Days "coins" over the years</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9MCuj1y0j18wn2E8X9I8hTu6TBUC9ZcQbtOd3d1rRLwDvi_WGvGTZU66GDmPEQsywN8mv5uvVCAnjGmv5dp9V2tABNm6ECVUwChVygUlrUBB3Vq_7LlOrzM3GvssYK5rPhSd69eKArlE/s1600/IMG_0667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9MCuj1y0j18wn2E8X9I8hTu6TBUC9ZcQbtOd3d1rRLwDvi_WGvGTZU66GDmPEQsywN8mv5uvVCAnjGmv5dp9V2tABNm6ECVUwChVygUlrUBB3Vq_7LlOrzM3GvssYK5rPhSd69eKArlE/s400/IMG_0667.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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My FULL 3 Days collection.</div>
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Somewhere in the madness that was May, C and I also found time to actually attend a baseball game at Fenway Park. I had always heard that no other baseball experience was quite like it...and it the case of our experience, it was made even more memorable by the fact that the Red Sox were playing Cleveland. I lived for over 13 years of my life in Cleveland, and had become an incredibly faithful Tribe baseball fan. I watched as they made it to, yet failed to complete, a World Series three separate times over the past 25 years. On top of that, having lived in the Boston area for the past few years, and coming to realize my utter distaste for Boston sports franchises, I couldn't wait to sit in the seats, fully clothed in Cleveland gear, and cheer loudly for the Tribe. For the entire game, Cleveland was losing and it wasn't looking good. I was definitely getting some angry looks by Red Sox fans. But then, something incredible happened. Cleveland rallied in the 9th inning to come back 5 runs to win it! It was spectacular. I left the stadium admittedly a bit smug about it, but it felt damn good. In all seriousness, attending a game at Fenway has been on my "bucket list" for quite some time, and it definitely delivered.</div>
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ARTICLE: <a href="https://www.bostonherald.com/2019/05/29/red-sox-bullpen-melts-down-in-ninth-in-7-5-loss-to-indians/">Red Sox Bullpen Melts Down!</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIjld0YzkXJMGze1Z7VI46dUtmlWT6yNsFdMP3QlJc8Z1KRswr-UCk0E3tRSoKveuC14ukgCVlcYTxa9oKcHGJAUJqkpVwVnyd1Tgn0qn1t4l3neD2L3GTlakPpfv2eLz0DsQSgrWcBhhe/s1600/IMG_0714.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIjld0YzkXJMGze1Z7VI46dUtmlWT6yNsFdMP3QlJc8Z1KRswr-UCk0E3tRSoKveuC14ukgCVlcYTxa9oKcHGJAUJqkpVwVnyd1Tgn0qn1t4l3neD2L3GTlakPpfv2eLz0DsQSgrWcBhhe/s400/IMG_0714.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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View from Home Plate at Fendway</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcXAhHTfhYiT3ba0887cdLCCK5BDaDPMkbxtf0DRF9zna2shhkAjOf7N5hHFAb595nm60dCgfr31h0oGwOI1ksROkjrIyWd-Doe_h7i_RnF3FVE0p65c__oXgX6eZY0PUEl9vUsadj-HFr/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-26+at+10.58.01+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="664" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcXAhHTfhYiT3ba0887cdLCCK5BDaDPMkbxtf0DRF9zna2shhkAjOf7N5hHFAb595nm60dCgfr31h0oGwOI1ksROkjrIyWd-Doe_h7i_RnF3FVE0p65c__oXgX6eZY0PUEl9vUsadj-HFr/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-26+at+10.58.01+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Ninth Inning Rally!</div>
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Amidst all the chaos of May, C and I also decided to take the Ferry over to Martha's Vineyard for their annual 100k charity bike ride. We had essentially done an unofficial version of this ride the year before, so this year decided to register for the real thing. Unlike with last year's miserable, cold rain...we had perfect cycling weather throughout the day. We took our time, stopped at lovely spots, and finished mid-afternoon. It was a really fun way to spend a weekend on the island, especially considering we both knew it might be a very long time before we make it back.</div>
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<b>LINK: STRAVA: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2344856534">Martha's Vineyard 100k Ride</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEon4NHNA9myHoLkPNH7nO-THQmyTy7cH1_Xs3t6TnHBctrRtvBqAkTwVA87tspdS5Hn3cvTBTFfRXsJruFASYpIg9qf2kY4wkw9Ppph_2pq7x6FRSXvcWbKDVMDXvhEVQeety5QLi6_tM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+2.46.52+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="1062" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEon4NHNA9myHoLkPNH7nO-THQmyTy7cH1_Xs3t6TnHBctrRtvBqAkTwVA87tspdS5Hn3cvTBTFfRXsJruFASYpIg9qf2kY4wkw9Ppph_2pq7x6FRSXvcWbKDVMDXvhEVQeety5QLi6_tM/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+2.46.52+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Marthas Vineyard 100k</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglCDf8W2sL3hRxEekTdFIx4yr-8YtscNw3ETGhucUNVa7FZ6sH-PYX15f88vvox_g1uAWzLu_olPw2hZ3F8e8aUG72NN2K3PYquLCdt65E7RDxx75girkEZU-spF0lTj12szwXkfKEcYhV/s1600/59323700_10101653925561806_7663014807674552320_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglCDf8W2sL3hRxEekTdFIx4yr-8YtscNw3ETGhucUNVa7FZ6sH-PYX15f88vvox_g1uAWzLu_olPw2hZ3F8e8aUG72NN2K3PYquLCdt65E7RDxx75girkEZU-spF0lTj12szwXkfKEcYhV/s400/59323700_10101653925561806_7663014807674552320_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Resting near the Martha's Vineyard Beach</div>
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Having good day on our bikes!</div>
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When June finally rolled around, I had come to learn that the Hardrock 100 was likely going to be canceled due to extreme snowpack. We had already planned another entire vacation around the run, so we were somewhat in a scramble trying to figure out what we would do instead. Still go to the San Juans? Go somewhere else? Cancel our trip altogether? While we were deciding, I had registered to run a 50 miler locally near Boston as a final tune-up race for Hardrock. I thought about just pulling my name, but was also itching to get in a good race. Ultimately, I decided to still go out and have some fun. I changed my goals to instead focus on going slowly, and having fun. Knowing that Hardrock was canceled, another idea had started to creep into my mind...one that was growing in intensity, and one that I knew I may only get once chance at...but more on that in a bit....</div>
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The 50 miler (North Face 50 Wachusett), ended up being a feisty little course, with quite a bit of technical trail navigation. I took my sweet time with it, during a pretty hot day, and finished in 11.5 hours. I wasn't upset by this slower time, as I knew I was not really racing.</div>
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<b>LINK: STRAVA: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2434602027">The North Face 50 Wachusett</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL7igwhDsDelQdf2Vxr2-pBIdK3f8vWAKzH_M7E71ONHztGR5o8TaaFzeoLJgAd54BpcewZ_z5U-_I8ndQADX7_qYblEvRKOEWX_ItGBq6z2j0Pq0hueaDJu7Kd39rKrxN0gSlTR8Vlqn1/s1600/IMG_1838.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL7igwhDsDelQdf2Vxr2-pBIdK3f8vWAKzH_M7E71ONHztGR5o8TaaFzeoLJgAd54BpcewZ_z5U-_I8ndQADX7_qYblEvRKOEWX_ItGBq6z2j0Pq0hueaDJu7Kd39rKrxN0gSlTR8Vlqn1/s400/IMG_1838.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Finishing the North Face 50 (MA)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_axmc915IPBKz4u87r2SBkviSncejlKvLNQjWNwlL6dut5aGwKjJF8i5jLbrL5rAwZvCsoXFNbTuoioY8lJfJRo2GxOqIobkxiJRkrnDnqEGnNZyC_wSF38fQP8JNAIUC-O5QvWpW2JX/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+3.17.56+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="784" data-original-width="1065" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_axmc915IPBKz4u87r2SBkviSncejlKvLNQjWNwlL6dut5aGwKjJF8i5jLbrL5rAwZvCsoXFNbTuoioY8lJfJRo2GxOqIobkxiJRkrnDnqEGnNZyC_wSF38fQP8JNAIUC-O5QvWpW2JX/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+3.17.56+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Wachusett course (8000' of gain)</div>
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As June progressed several things started to come into focus more clearly. </div>
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<li>First, Hardrock was definitely canceled, and we made plans to alter our vacation. We would still fly to Denver, but take our rental car up to Wyoming instead. Our vacation would center around Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. We would be mostly camping and just enjoying some quiet time before things got crazy in August with our move.</li>
<li>Second, we had finalized our move plan to Arizona, taken care of most of the required paperwork, signed a lease in Flagstaff for an Apartment, and tied up most of the loose ends. All that was left was the big moves themselves. I say 'moves' because the cross-country move would entail moving out of two separate apartments (MA and VT).</li>
<li>Lastly....and this was the plan that was borne out of that idea I mentioned previously, I was going to finally go after a self-supported fast time on the Vermont Long Trail. I have talked previously about this on this journal, but I had come to realize that based on the way the stars were aligning, my fitness level, that Hardrock was canceled, and that we were about to leave New England (possibly forever), this was likely the only chance I was going to get at this speed hike. I was completely honest with myself about it however and while I was in good shape, I was not in shape to break the current FKT. Still, my goal going in was to see how fast I could comfortably go, and could I match my friend Travis's time (6 days 17 hours).</li>
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So with these plans well laid out, all of my waking thoughts began to shift to the Long Trail. I fell asleep with the map in my hands, dreamt about it, and anxiously waited for the days to count down. C would be out of town during my hike but would be able to drop me off at the Canadian border to start. I picked up a Garmin InReach tracker so I would have a way to keep in touch with her, but also as way to post my position online for friends and family to track my progress. I set up a shared tracking page and tested it in the weeks before my hike. All of my food was coming together, gear was tested, and maps were studied. I spent hours pouring over Travis's hike report from several years ago to get a feel for where I might be presented with both high and low points on the trail (literally and figuratively). I knew doing an early July hike on the LT would be a lot tougher than a September hike due to much more mud, bugs, and higher temps. But still, I was eager and excited to take on the challenge.<br />
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I wrote an incredibly extensive hike report on this site detailing every day of my journey...including all of the highs and lows. That post can be found here:</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">LINK: <a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2019/07/an-unsupported-journey-along-vermont.html">Vermont Long Trail Report</a></span></b></div>
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Rather than take more time rehashing the experience, I will simply say that it was simultaneously one of the most rewarding and most grueling experiences I've ever had. There were times when I was so completely defeated, I literally collapsed on the side of the trail, falling asleep in a pile of leaves. There were other times, when I was completely overwhelmed by the incredible magnitude of what I was doing too...and for better or for worse (I think better), the experience has had a permanent effect on me. There is just something so intrinsically magical about the Vermont Long Trail that cannot be explained in words. I truly believe it has to be experienced, however not necessarily in 7 days (unless you also want to come away nearly destroyed with feet that will undoubtedly take 6 months to fully heal). At any rate, rather than go through it again, I figure it's easier to just post some of my favorite highlight photos...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlhhKZSrBr5KntIypYx-Ag0kVDY9_5CQIUD9ZVUr7LVThtv_g9vY4BPXrjoqDZ64sAZsyde4LnV3_zQLAeizpcsyg7ERvLUBujsA3Bib84DMy609G1b8-7yMFhdE-BG8E7fW2VOxjiKBY_/s1600/IMG_0825.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlhhKZSrBr5KntIypYx-Ag0kVDY9_5CQIUD9ZVUr7LVThtv_g9vY4BPXrjoqDZ64sAZsyde4LnV3_zQLAeizpcsyg7ERvLUBujsA3Bib84DMy609G1b8-7yMFhdE-BG8E7fW2VOxjiKBY_/s400/IMG_0825.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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At the start....VT/Canada Border</div>
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Still smiling on day 2</div>
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Looking back at Mt. Mansfield</div>
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Quite discouraged at the Maine (AT/VT) Junction</div>
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Sunrise from Glastonbury Peak</div>
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Perfectly still pond about 6 miles from the finish</div>
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VT/MA Border...and a finished hike</div>
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When I returned from my Long Trail hike, I was in really bad shape. It took me weeks to feel normal again, and I had developed a lot of persistent pains, particularly in my knees. I genuinely screwed up my body quite badly. Thankfully, with Hardrock canceled, and our trip planned for Wyoming, I looked at this as a really good way to simply relax and enjoy some well-earned 'rest'.</div>
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I flew out to Colorado and met C there...and after renting a car, we set out for our trip to Wyoming. I never wrote an entry here about our trip, but suffice it to say, it was exactly what we both needed and gave us both a chance to exhale before our lives upended. If it's possible to imagine what a 'perfect' 10 days around Wyoming would be like...I truly believe we had that experience. We watched sunsets along mountain streams while looking out to the Grand Tetons. We laid in a hammock strung between trees, while geysers erupted in the distance. We paddled down a river in view of stunning mountains and geology, while Bald Eagles flew overhead. We fell asleep to crackling campfires and stopped at every amazing geologic road cut to examine the stratigraphy. We even hiked along preserved ruts from the original Oregon Trail wagon train. At one point, we stumbled upon the 'oldest steakhouse in Wyoming' in a literal ghost town. We shared the best steak either of us has ever had in out entire lives (and this is coming from someone that almost never eats red meat). The entire vacation was all very sublime and exactly what we both needed.</div>
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Wyoming Geology</div>
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Mountain Lake Camping</div>
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Hammock lounging</div>
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The Tetons</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwBTQDGKx9FZJE5KM_p8LaClY2LT7Y8vBoTEQXWH-kVmxuCXJc7SODtc-e9RBM3r_2ctFdQb_D6ditsYa4tpWJbVqnjezcj6rxRut9Q__GUGl3fM1X58vnNdf5zcKF2uZqpqNp9ph4puKz/s1600/IMG_0944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwBTQDGKx9FZJE5KM_p8LaClY2LT7Y8vBoTEQXWH-kVmxuCXJc7SODtc-e9RBM3r_2ctFdQb_D6ditsYa4tpWJbVqnjezcj6rxRut9Q__GUGl3fM1X58vnNdf5zcKF2uZqpqNp9ph4puKz/s400/IMG_0944.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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More Tetons</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSf4S0QKTJZ3-ABK9MNLTyNn5J8LaeD3-BKYQls6HWn5R8Luofeq2rGG9jKZR3Tdy51FbWR0tbPowTdrqd9yQuYhFVurrh7o0fDQLBFEeSwHmsVUbGIhnUi6INilhyEtpJxkkDRZI1wHDO/s1600/IMG_0949.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSf4S0QKTJZ3-ABK9MNLTyNn5J8LaeD3-BKYQls6HWn5R8Luofeq2rGG9jKZR3Tdy51FbWR0tbPowTdrqd9yQuYhFVurrh7o0fDQLBFEeSwHmsVUbGIhnUi6INilhyEtpJxkkDRZI1wHDO/s400/IMG_0949.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Mountain Waterfall</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH1ney-omM8raV0kF1FAV3uuX-WWn56IRLzp0Bm1p89E0hSkyuk3qVkMZNXdrBpvVDqnjvS1uLplaCusvDSOPGtTi1s00N8pgXV8Exsa_6Khd2IVjjgbbhF24QssRx9_m2RoHJwtqJw-U7/s1600/IMG_0956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH1ney-omM8raV0kF1FAV3uuX-WWn56IRLzp0Bm1p89E0hSkyuk3qVkMZNXdrBpvVDqnjvS1uLplaCusvDSOPGtTi1s00N8pgXV8Exsa_6Khd2IVjjgbbhF24QssRx9_m2RoHJwtqJw-U7/s400/IMG_0956.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Typical Campsite</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjl24X3a_eh8qW2683fLqQMeNz3MZxO3fvwaGw1T8WRjTtRDg3xqfZPfiwfFxx5XLY0sQuLTKrOjoR-talDPo0Pwnkl0sP39tpW9rCL4fTtATehbQoLrLoPoeO-HaCon_S3Ij_oZ8CslIC/s1600/IMG_0966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjl24X3a_eh8qW2683fLqQMeNz3MZxO3fvwaGw1T8WRjTtRDg3xqfZPfiwfFxx5XLY0sQuLTKrOjoR-talDPo0Pwnkl0sP39tpW9rCL4fTtATehbQoLrLoPoeO-HaCon_S3Ij_oZ8CslIC/s400/IMG_0966.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Ball Deagle</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijMeDqoV16cwxXjuseUwOso5N_RVRCHTiBXpC718lmASZ2Onxcfkk0Wq-Dia2ue8O_Pijw1bcW5XILeNS5d0GeX1y2CuWM8WZ94kiP4DMpkjvxPGi9gtqcEVD5mS3louXtlY0DdoNEPi8u/s1600/IMG_0973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijMeDqoV16cwxXjuseUwOso5N_RVRCHTiBXpC718lmASZ2Onxcfkk0Wq-Dia2ue8O_Pijw1bcW5XILeNS5d0GeX1y2CuWM8WZ94kiP4DMpkjvxPGi9gtqcEVD5mS3louXtlY0DdoNEPi8u/s400/IMG_0973.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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View from our campsite</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV60Xrtta-pnmvNiR6ejqOff4SEehFEuFDfV6ZdS3RA-qr9y55OhH0pgHFccqCW-GiDM4cuOYHQQfxjDHVluhloNeld-oRZNP_Rb11TBKi8TCOLTomk5aGwhcVbg43FidJ0u8lyNytQ1AO/s1600/IMG_0979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV60Xrtta-pnmvNiR6ejqOff4SEehFEuFDfV6ZdS3RA-qr9y55OhH0pgHFccqCW-GiDM4cuOYHQQfxjDHVluhloNeld-oRZNP_Rb11TBKi8TCOLTomk5aGwhcVbg43FidJ0u8lyNytQ1AO/s400/IMG_0979.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Hammock lounging by active geyser</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgK1p-NauSQyr0BYo0tH_DlRoBA5UjcSXPW7Ey3GL5ZOM2hg1or6VIIJyeDmsWJdY-UrR2AS2RZU2K0uDhqtPIc7JzLqni4ORWL-NLhhgDzT5LkT856AQOKNrckuPxF33VT3V_Td5OI7LB/s1600/IMG_0980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgK1p-NauSQyr0BYo0tH_DlRoBA5UjcSXPW7Ey3GL5ZOM2hg1or6VIIJyeDmsWJdY-UrR2AS2RZU2K0uDhqtPIc7JzLqni4ORWL-NLhhgDzT5LkT856AQOKNrckuPxF33VT3V_Td5OI7LB/s400/IMG_0980.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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....and there it goes!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizUfvvq3T6VFul7uhWwd7T8llDbR_LbedFq23nryXaqUTNJyadhydWR1Rtpp7kT74c6mQwxoIG5Y3358eEgcOCg2RQraBpEM0cSNhZ4a6K5uds75QkD6-eIH4ZzbxYbiB8q6cFtIOzxcHm/s1600/IMG_0994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizUfvvq3T6VFul7uhWwd7T8llDbR_LbedFq23nryXaqUTNJyadhydWR1Rtpp7kT74c6mQwxoIG5Y3358eEgcOCg2RQraBpEM0cSNhZ4a6K5uds75QkD6-eIH4ZzbxYbiB8q6cFtIOzxcHm/s400/IMG_0994.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Identifying the 'Great Uncomformity'</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi909mxgd69cgSHPOS7LUJJ6lAECXaGqA7QxWy6d5iyoaAN97Dl7m5PEDR23Rr4U44ul4HSIMbXpwW5CVeYVKaHsaJPdJjt_vaeZ7iadO5hf-sdL_ucVFB0j3XdqqJIcvCAkSjrOnRDiZGz/s1600/IMG_1013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi909mxgd69cgSHPOS7LUJJ6lAECXaGqA7QxWy6d5iyoaAN97Dl7m5PEDR23Rr4U44ul4HSIMbXpwW5CVeYVKaHsaJPdJjt_vaeZ7iadO5hf-sdL_ucVFB0j3XdqqJIcvCAkSjrOnRDiZGz/s400/IMG_1013.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Actual 'Rut' from the Oregon Trail wagon trains</div>
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Greatest Steakhouse in the world....</div>
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Sun setting over Yellowstone Falls.</div>
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As August finally came upon us, we completely shifted all of our mental efforts towards our new move. The logistics alone were quite complicated, so we both found ourselves getting quite burned out. Somehow though, we not only connected all the dots, but also managed to have one of the most fun cross-country road trips I've ever been on. We took many detours along the drive from Boston to Flagstaff, many involving National Parks, bizarre roadside Americana, state high points, or just weird towns like Roswell. We were definitely happy to be done with the driving by the end, but overall the move out West was quite fun. Our moving truck did make it with our belongings...*mostly* intact, so we were pretty relieved about that too.</div>
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A full write-up about our Cross-Country Move to Flagstaff can be found here:</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">LINK: <a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2019/09/a-new-chapter-begins-in-flagstaff.html">A New Chapter Begins in Flagstaff</a></span></b></div>
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Here are some of my favorite pictures from that adventure...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGcX14PYqhGCy41t7g5ZmeYYDGbsQlpoJVzqAPL_AXLHkeBmPmUVqJ7vwlhXGW91iV9SwnERe6_jdYYKWkCa0kGH-wDupVBZfsc_LQAfWnc6PkoHRBK01-TemESGXqqHtZhRZmbJ-F9wC1/s1600/IMG_1030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGcX14PYqhGCy41t7g5ZmeYYDGbsQlpoJVzqAPL_AXLHkeBmPmUVqJ7vwlhXGW91iV9SwnERe6_jdYYKWkCa0kGH-wDupVBZfsc_LQAfWnc6PkoHRBK01-TemESGXqqHtZhRZmbJ-F9wC1/s400/IMG_1030.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Saying goodbye to the Vermont Apartment</div>
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Saying goodbye to the Massachusetts Apartment</div>
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Our moving truck</div>
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A very disorganized pile of all of our belongings...</div>
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All organized and 'walled off'. We paid per foot used. </div>
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We budgeted for 13 feet and just barely got it all to fit.</div>
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My last sunset in Vermont</div>
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Car all packed and ready to go!</div>
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Visiting my nephew in Rochester NY</div>
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Swinging through Pittsburgh</div>
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Kecksburg UFO monument</div>
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Roadside dinosaur in...KY?</div>
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Summit of Guadalupe Peak (Texas Highpoint)</div>
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On top of Texas (105 degrees F)</div>
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State highpoint map. 42 of 50 now visited.</div>
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All the hard ones are left...</div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2607828258">STRAVA: Guadalupe Peak</a></b></div>
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Inside Carlsbad Caverns</div>
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After 8 days, we finally made it into our new home State</div>
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Arizona Geology</div>
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Officially an NAU lumberjack</div>
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As we navigated the starting of our new jobs and careers, we both found ourselves in a bit of a panic. We were trying to survive hours of orientation meetings, while also preparing completely new course materials and becoming familiar with all of the various departments and faculty on campus. The last few weeks of August were a whirlwind, but eventually things did start to settle down long enough for us to breathe. As I became more familiar with my new surroundings, I also came to learn that there are many within my new department that also run. So like any runner new to a town, I signed up for a local trail race with a few of these colleagues. I also made sure to make time to get up and down Humphreys Peak a few times. I learned very quickly that it was going to take me some time to get used to life over 7000 feet. I was most certainly 'gaspin'. One thing that I did notice was happening with much more frequency was that I was literally tripping on the trails. I took a nasty spill at 'Gaspin', and then another really bad one coming down from Humphreys. In both cases I did quite a number on my knees. I decided to start investigating new footwear and ultimately stumbled upon Topo Ultraventures. I wrote an entire post about my long search for good trail footwear. I have since run many races in these shoes, and never once tripped. So far, I couldn't be happier with how these new shoes have treated me.</div>
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Here is my entry all about trying to find the right footwear for me...</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">LINK: <a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-never-ending-search-for-perfect.html">The Never-ending Search for the Perfect Shoes...</a></span></b></div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2647779584">STRAVA: Gaspin' in the Aspen</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCMGG6DPeTSJclgkatWxKmc5Iw5vFyuu9syJoUJXsZIA1MzkXqF2UitYt6yo-J3e8VQQX2YlFLy4m5DpE7f-TMFb9yoZGjTG37TS0Jh1_22wxn_LyRHEZRrhp-i2y38TT0m4eVGNhZ4_2z/s1600/IMG_1510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCMGG6DPeTSJclgkatWxKmc5Iw5vFyuu9syJoUJXsZIA1MzkXqF2UitYt6yo-J3e8VQQX2YlFLy4m5DpE7f-TMFb9yoZGjTG37TS0Jh1_22wxn_LyRHEZRrhp-i2y38TT0m4eVGNhZ4_2z/s400/IMG_1510.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Trail through the Aspen</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr-_k-cnSmPuzyP9blQlGppp9lf-FQi5xzMcZHjIuEwPdLsHJI35lk-Hmb04dYY23blJLTmHxk2CFPU4T2opzrznKldXSZzM1zVbgN8uIiAtrDLbZpOmSjqH4vlj6bREttVr0nAyrgudJZ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+10.48.10+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="793" data-original-width="1061" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr-_k-cnSmPuzyP9blQlGppp9lf-FQi5xzMcZHjIuEwPdLsHJI35lk-Hmb04dYY23blJLTmHxk2CFPU4T2opzrznKldXSZzM1zVbgN8uIiAtrDLbZpOmSjqH4vlj6bREttVr0nAyrgudJZ/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+10.48.10+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2688586955">STRAVA: Humphreys Peak</a></b></div>
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A week after tumbling down Humphreys, I threw my name in for one of Aravaipa's races. I knew that the Mogollon Monster is an absolutely ridiculous course, and one I was no where near trained for...but thankfully they also offered a 35k version. I figured what better way to try out some Arizona trails than to head the 90 minutes down to Pine AZ for a day along the rim. This was also my first test race in the Topo shoes...which was ultimately a huge success. I learned quickly that running in desert is very different than what I'm used to. I was definitely dehydrated several times throughout the day, but still managed to have a fairly good time. There was a lot more climb than I was prepared for, so the day was quite long.</div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2712420017">STRAVA: Mogollon Monster 35k</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN2iGdnO0WmhITLR5WuIFRhO94pwQteUAeaFTeKf-8kDwuyr7pDdtwzvrm66eMH6UGMdYSl-gso38XzT3UZIEiDpwzQRv66xw-SknseM0g6yYo-gmNw2bWUffdg1wC5M52UPVOYhwA_KgM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+10.53.19+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="1066" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN2iGdnO0WmhITLR5WuIFRhO94pwQteUAeaFTeKf-8kDwuyr7pDdtwzvrm66eMH6UGMdYSl-gso38XzT3UZIEiDpwzQRv66xw-SknseM0g6yYo-gmNw2bWUffdg1wC5M52UPVOYhwA_KgM/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+10.53.19+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcMq8GsOqEIeMI5pV4sLrv9Jh1RB564kWKTlRTY6k6A6QGzbU10sC8m3qEUWlOAQtWyBx0bx9ChT821itjCOvrNy8GwqZoEnWVV_nUaN7wh6SnOQqfFU0TxADlvfi2ZTxxrZn-oF00L7g3/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+2.45.36+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="669" data-original-width="521" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcMq8GsOqEIeMI5pV4sLrv9Jh1RB564kWKTlRTY6k6A6QGzbU10sC8m3qEUWlOAQtWyBx0bx9ChT821itjCOvrNy8GwqZoEnWVV_nUaN7wh6SnOQqfFU0TxADlvfi2ZTxxrZn-oF00L7g3/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+2.45.36+PM.png" width="311" /></a></div>
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Along the Mogollon course...</div>
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The very next weekend, I finally made my way out to Frozen Head in Tennessee for the Barkley Fall Classic 50+k. This is an event I had told Laz that I'd wanted to run since its inception in 2014...but never was able to make work. This year, I finally made the time for it, and suffered my way through what was easily one of the most difficult 50k courses I've ever been on. Forgetting for a moment that the course was probably closer to 40 miles, the climbs and heat of the day, made this event as tough as the name implies. I was not in shape for it, so it was a true suffer-fest. I eeked out a finish, and was happy to call it completed. This is one I don't know that I'll ever do again, simply because it takes a special kind of training and mentality going in....and frankly does incur some misery. There are no GPS watches allowed during the race, so I have no Strava Track from it. I did write about my run at the BFC 50k in a full race report here though:</div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2019/10/la-gira-de-lazarus-bfc-50k.html">The Barkley Fall Classic Race Report</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqytk4uATEHQM3OexEJ3JNDD27viNdDn5ZmoQN1v5JHSdAg8eUfeSb5XEggqmQo_A76iKp2MoRf1bQrTOJtl2alaiprfRzatHDTiriLOAb5_pLJYitzIsDc6qtIcKp6QnWPtKPMLVP5Q1t/s1600/83053677-BFC_Quittersroad_CBB_00518.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqytk4uATEHQM3OexEJ3JNDD27viNdDn5ZmoQN1v5JHSdAg8eUfeSb5XEggqmQo_A76iKp2MoRf1bQrTOJtl2alaiprfRzatHDTiriLOAb5_pLJYitzIsDc6qtIcKp6QnWPtKPMLVP5Q1t/s400/83053677-BFC_Quittersroad_CBB_00518.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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When I was still feeling good early in the day...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Vu5VUA91sXQLxsSB4V-lRD9mukJ_75UqUEESuyShT1ZEetp7MAzJCMwo5qH68eKjPQzvDm-KikQ_OMQmor6Xw9bTVg9XCdV-R8C1H53m6ZgtYRXGqJ2dVEmDG14GVVeUhNQt7buuCJbk/s1600/83053675-DSC_7510.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Vu5VUA91sXQLxsSB4V-lRD9mukJ_75UqUEESuyShT1ZEetp7MAzJCMwo5qH68eKjPQzvDm-KikQ_OMQmor6Xw9bTVg9XCdV-R8C1H53m6ZgtYRXGqJ2dVEmDG14GVVeUhNQt7buuCJbk/s400/83053675-DSC_7510.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Topping out on Rat Jaw</div>
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Scaling the Prison Wall</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqEvU8_rwiMFppg9lXjmlr7OFAPepZ6O3xEP0O3VQzPr-73O-Q5Etr7Qre_cuDl_OnQL2AVvS3IuwbbIWC7ZxLgXbY9pUVuERJMke7-o2rw8pdpdvhAQaX2nATQCmisoQvkJEoygyhsEZe/s1600/IMG_1478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqEvU8_rwiMFppg9lXjmlr7OFAPepZ6O3xEP0O3VQzPr-73O-Q5Etr7Qre_cuDl_OnQL2AVvS3IuwbbIWC7ZxLgXbY9pUVuERJMke7-o2rw8pdpdvhAQaX2nATQCmisoQvkJEoygyhsEZe/s400/IMG_1478.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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The finisher Medal</div>
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As October and November rolled along, C and I were both settling into our new jobs fairly well. I had been teaching my class with fairly good success and getting comfortable with lectures and instruction. I was happy to be working with students again and quite honestly having a blast.</div>
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In late October I was nursing some knee pain, which I came to find out later was due to my improperly fitted bicycle that I was using to commute every day. I had signed up for the Javelina Jundred so I could run with my friend Melissa from Boston (The same Melissa that rescued me at the end of the Long Trail). I still needed a Western States Qualifier but was in no way prepared for a 100-miler. I knew if I were to run it, there'd be A LOT of hiking. I asked Melissa her plans, and she noted she planned to run the first 40, then run-walk from there out. I asked if she'd be ok with just doing the race together and she agreed. We ended up spending over 26 hours together on the course and while there were certainly low points, it ended up being a really rewarding experience. I'm very grateful to have had such a good friend stick with me for the entire 100. We did end up hiking quite a bit, but both still came away with good memories, and a WS qualifier. The course was pretty good, but we both got a bit weary with the 5 loops. My Garmin actually recorded for the entire run (thanks to a little sneaky on-the-go charging) so I do have a full track.</div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2822654248">STRAVA: Javelina Jundred</a></b></div>
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<span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2822654248"><img border="0" data-original-height="781" data-original-width="1091" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim_q5koHjl7NtJBnyhmSOVR9HQ3f4VHpLQR2aMjtwxpOfUYqn4SF3CrmWnz6kGSBzKYvu614dLqQJTV5hqR-o6nWuC9YWU0Shpb2H6ORDPMxVj_N7C_Pbcxqg6_csFUwJqqK7SsVX_cxOC/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+11.07.25+AM.png" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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Javelina Course</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjknS0Wo1-XLhTpu2wmG9IdQZ77m98iFbLd1TPljX9kS2lyb-Yz71f7s8LBtkxx2tYIbzzqs3ihv1MyHD3utihp41270ouHEgYgpQveZDBebAX-7rwKKWI7T3vmGCcu01jfUZTELqtE-spN/s1600/74440549_10157688508564133_4665800927024775168_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="613" data-original-width="920" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjknS0Wo1-XLhTpu2wmG9IdQZ77m98iFbLd1TPljX9kS2lyb-Yz71f7s8LBtkxx2tYIbzzqs3ihv1MyHD3utihp41270ouHEgYgpQveZDBebAX-7rwKKWI7T3vmGCcu01jfUZTELqtE-spN/s400/74440549_10157688508564133_4665800927024775168_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Smiling on Lap 2 at Javelina</div>
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Watching sunrise during Loop 5</div>
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Success! Thanks for the great company Melissa.</div>
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I wrote about the Javelina in a length post here:</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">LINK: <a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2019/11/another-november-mmtr-javelina.html">Another November</a></span></b></div>
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Just one week after the Javelina, and still quite sore, I did manage to make one last trip out east for my yearly pilgrimage to Central VA and the Mountain Masochist. This would be my 5th running of the MMTR with my Barkley friends. For JB, this would be his 20th! If you recall, the last couple of years saw AT's 20th finish, as well as Travis's. I'm just happy to have an excuse to goof off for a weekend and trade ridiculous stories with these guys. It's always a blast. As usual, we managed to cut the race way too close...and finish with just over 10 minutes to spare. </div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2840047739">STRAVA: Mountain Masochist</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlVzlP3AGEHKDGdCbtN2NpuJne1DWKnFn-TijfHdYmPFvvs1H8iP8LInJPDv6VDJgCv354WfamLk0MCJZ6UqMAaa6wXc5hxNzJHNXzoLdG1EGfXJN4Q0pB93ZEnyzS9bhKSRs36c_RcDSC/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+11.27.59+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="793" data-original-width="1064" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlVzlP3AGEHKDGdCbtN2NpuJne1DWKnFn-TijfHdYmPFvvs1H8iP8LInJPDv6VDJgCv354WfamLk0MCJZ6UqMAaa6wXc5hxNzJHNXzoLdG1EGfXJN4Q0pB93ZEnyzS9bhKSRs36c_RcDSC/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+11.27.59+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Mountain Masochist 50 miler</div>
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MMTR 2019</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAOSROnb6F_Npy_GnWGDZRLndcwX8W0UtoWIXW3ua0s1P4FWNmW8HsdFhbWrjOCTI7E7LUEoU3YNs2rtqG_0TbdGtp40wcDMR6HE9Rxqo0Fz7X0JvQjhHKeihJ4IqVvmXBjeaPkLiOwxTK/s1600/IMG_1532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAOSROnb6F_Npy_GnWGDZRLndcwX8W0UtoWIXW3ua0s1P4FWNmW8HsdFhbWrjOCTI7E7LUEoU3YNs2rtqG_0TbdGtp40wcDMR6HE9Rxqo0Fz7X0JvQjhHKeihJ4IqVvmXBjeaPkLiOwxTK/s400/IMG_1532.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Finishing with 14 minutes to spare...</div>
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Plenty of time...</div>
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I talked about MMTR in my November post as well:</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">LINK: <a href="http://another%20november/">Another November</a></span></b></div>
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The very next week, I went up and down Humphreys again back in Flagstaff, and finally managed to do the entire round-trip in under 3 hours (moving time). My total time was just over...but close enough in my book. I was quite thrilled with this outcome and it marked a nice way to basically cap off my 2019 running season. I was ready for my annual December rest before my yearly January streak month and the start of the new year.</div>
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<b>STRAVA: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2853491556">3 Hour Humphreys Run</a></b></div>
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The rest of November moved along fairly smoothly. I began wrapping up course material for my class, and all of the students within the Climate program presented their research at a big forum just before Thanksgiving. It was a great way to cap of a fun course. We presented all of our results to the Office of Sustainability here on campus, and they will be incorporating our research into their new Climate Action Plan.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2esHZu0Mz27H7BO2gva33is8-WBUDZI56CCEcF2vVOYoX0fJFb7djC7MOprhU_dtr8UC8dQl-DjrLZ3n-sgOScl5zOgaQSql36Zp9z71PvS5r1MqO0KRaoRwysy3M_5pbmaCIZ857eCf/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+11.37.02+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="644" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2esHZu0Mz27H7BO2gva33is8-WBUDZI56CCEcF2vVOYoX0fJFb7djC7MOprhU_dtr8UC8dQl-DjrLZ3n-sgOScl5zOgaQSql36Zp9z71PvS5r1MqO0KRaoRwysy3M_5pbmaCIZ857eCf/s320/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+11.37.02+AM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Thanksgiving weekend, C and I finally made time for a short trip somewhere, that neither of us have ever been too, but both have been waiting desperately to see: The Grand Canyon. The best part of our visit was that just before we left town, it snowed over 14 inches in the park. This meant we'd get to see the Grand Canyon for the first time, but covered in snow! We did what any sane person would do, and rented snowshoes from a local store in town, and set out to explore the park. We spent two full days exploring the snowy wonderland and both were at loss for words most of the time. I thought I'd be able to comprehend the magnitude of the Grand Canyon....but simply was unprepared. It was absolutely ridiculous.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi74yz0vrnnRL7JyMDaA7-CiWf8VcrfTW76-cENX-PotPgRKDdEAgOVnLeJrQNQQRj4pYbWh6KXEli7kTazPmeTcwcv8vLgF16inN0PUvkJhQVrBUDF01ms2LyJ1kKXCLWMZIBisfI9fqAa/s1600/IMG_1583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi74yz0vrnnRL7JyMDaA7-CiWf8VcrfTW76-cENX-PotPgRKDdEAgOVnLeJrQNQQRj4pYbWh6KXEli7kTazPmeTcwcv8vLgF16inN0PUvkJhQVrBUDF01ms2LyJ1kKXCLWMZIBisfI9fqAa/s400/IMG_1583.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Two happy geoscientists...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_F895Bp5Jgib-rRk19yU-3VmRZ3bjF00G5TvsTHTApNauxxWNI-jgvmJvULkIuR0ZoC96Rzp0y1FSNWiF0qsenCSLRsYHNJurldukdnPBN7h4dqyrXe3VSgPjA5hk1Iwy5x7GCX8Wxkt-/s1600/IMG_1584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_F895Bp5Jgib-rRk19yU-3VmRZ3bjF00G5TvsTHTApNauxxWNI-jgvmJvULkIuR0ZoC96Rzp0y1FSNWiF0qsenCSLRsYHNJurldukdnPBN7h4dqyrXe3VSgPjA5hk1Iwy5x7GCX8Wxkt-/s400/IMG_1584.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Snowy Grand Canyon</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-bbyT2XuGnhQLXnBSPtB0WLMIcnjJuRNzpX1TuWeMMf-78qMCSnOlWUvCL72RosLLvzO068hFKoWziOTBQlFnpXcbppWKv5fXSYseFKZzGcP6aikB-A4TNB615blBNtHTDFszoZUA50D7/s1600/IMG_1587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-bbyT2XuGnhQLXnBSPtB0WLMIcnjJuRNzpX1TuWeMMf-78qMCSnOlWUvCL72RosLLvzO068hFKoWziOTBQlFnpXcbppWKv5fXSYseFKZzGcP6aikB-A4TNB615blBNtHTDFszoZUA50D7/s400/IMG_1587.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Looking towards the North Rim</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVPfyAuw2Jqp5igHMPXdQetR_1fTxbmCSBPOO-UEuxEAyUCOXtIuLhVVrHGnrGcx2SlvHfjEtuiaXgNCKqsajiE6vievzwnBUZc8CYwv37wNbotLy7jFa1p4nM1nEHkw82Y4tLCr20qoIw/s1600/IMG_1590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVPfyAuw2Jqp5igHMPXdQetR_1fTxbmCSBPOO-UEuxEAyUCOXtIuLhVVrHGnrGcx2SlvHfjEtuiaXgNCKqsajiE6vievzwnBUZc8CYwv37wNbotLy7jFa1p4nM1nEHkw82Y4tLCr20qoIw/s400/IMG_1590.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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More snow in the Rim</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQYOo3gGwJzbVqhnzydpSRK50u1lUUhBfo741_lklBSkUFwG-gOtved-QwMUA03PTxRWUfwyyaTt4mxkBiGR_72DDQXKqwY4cd3-6815ru6YTFgCQlhQeuSeCJ0-TFd4661FtJYzElkcE/s1600/IMG_1597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQYOo3gGwJzbVqhnzydpSRK50u1lUUhBfo741_lklBSkUFwG-gOtved-QwMUA03PTxRWUfwyyaTt4mxkBiGR_72DDQXKqwY4cd3-6815ru6YTFgCQlhQeuSeCJ0-TFd4661FtJYzElkcE/s400/IMG_1597.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Elk just roaming around</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq21fIxCRxVOYTfgG26iPe8-d5P3w6-57o0f9xbuvl3RdRuBITyoYXovFSczIk77ljuF9WuYot_5DtryWvKE8HQaQo21tJZa0oj4xCByBETjS3R7qvA8g4uhl9vybbO4PrYrWf8adNyLPe/s1600/IMG_1598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq21fIxCRxVOYTfgG26iPe8-d5P3w6-57o0f9xbuvl3RdRuBITyoYXovFSczIk77ljuF9WuYot_5DtryWvKE8HQaQo21tJZa0oj4xCByBETjS3R7qvA8g4uhl9vybbO4PrYrWf8adNyLPe/s400/IMG_1598.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Snow and stratigraphy</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9NzSywo0D_nomnTDKQTIxBwH11q6IqiBmJnIHZQCbXMWi8RphTJBw2sx6Hz4VTiriLwM5wKbXK8pYuLnmE8dIbwr2R1ibUjDXy2uOflJFPJnDqxW2lqNv5n7rf48TFCt3sfltIksrhIzt/s1600/IMG_1608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9NzSywo0D_nomnTDKQTIxBwH11q6IqiBmJnIHZQCbXMWi8RphTJBw2sx6Hz4VTiriLwM5wKbXK8pYuLnmE8dIbwr2R1ibUjDXy2uOflJFPJnDqxW2lqNv5n7rf48TFCt3sfltIksrhIzt/s400/IMG_1608.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Snowshoe fun...</div>
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After Thanksgiving, I did still find time to do a little exploring, but all was incredibly easy paced. I finally made it down to Fisher Point in Flagstaff...a well known spot with some cool cliffs and great sandstone outcrops. On that run I again tripped and really busted myself up good. That fall was worse than any other and it was at that point that I officially gave up on Altra brand shoes forever. As I sit here and type this late in February, I still have unhealed scabs from that fall. </div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2950141186">STRAVA: Fisher Point</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5MhFRpSmn4hkX2OFDPQmFSuLnlB-HCewy5e5ijfMFoiJkeXsMc62GVjwEAxTCXRd-XlfdSMxxo1djBGvvmmQ_7S42KCcy5xHvY8npp4lH6bKHCgUj9NBmU7LOXJjEdPpF8cFZo3AmWpx4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+11.50.13+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="763" data-original-width="1063" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5MhFRpSmn4hkX2OFDPQmFSuLnlB-HCewy5e5ijfMFoiJkeXsMc62GVjwEAxTCXRd-XlfdSMxxo1djBGvvmmQ_7S42KCcy5xHvY8npp4lH6bKHCgUj9NBmU7LOXJjEdPpF8cFZo3AmWpx4/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+11.50.13+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Fisher Point Run</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9jrLDpmgGDBWVpngGwkgvM4fKStT7WoFaxivmzzwzwteJQhMepNJiHoLlb1W0lSYJkAZvumLhnRW3ZjVh9VHvWjxMlNi4tx0Mya0cwmHkp6ZHoWo5PJEfeZkBtwi4YnGFJoMaLd6zKU9P/s1600/IMG_1649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9jrLDpmgGDBWVpngGwkgvM4fKStT7WoFaxivmzzwzwteJQhMepNJiHoLlb1W0lSYJkAZvumLhnRW3ZjVh9VHvWjxMlNi4tx0Mya0cwmHkp6ZHoWo5PJEfeZkBtwi4YnGFJoMaLd6zKU9P/s400/IMG_1649.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Headed to Fisher Point</div>
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Fisher Point (near Walnut Canyon)</div>
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In Mid-December, C and I made our way out to San Francisco for the Annual AGU (American Geophysical Union) conference. While there I was able to meet up with an entire group of old friends and fellow ice core researchers. It was quite profound to sit with these folks and think about how I met them all my first or second season in Antarctica, and how now, most are either post-docs or faculty at various Universities. How fast things progress....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA4HFS5Nb1bCAlA80_b-pY7qrDjb6nTrqk6v9RBfeyMQg_jVogKANic9x9IaHYPsikbwNCZBC4t97z398B9JIN4LJcIo-pHs0ZmLC7Y1YB7SYCzy7cEJAcpGesV6W1ioDxW9WnnDe7tGOa/s1600/IMG_1617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="1008" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA4HFS5Nb1bCAlA80_b-pY7qrDjb6nTrqk6v9RBfeyMQg_jVogKANic9x9IaHYPsikbwNCZBC4t97z398B9JIN4LJcIo-pHs0ZmLC7Y1YB7SYCzy7cEJAcpGesV6W1ioDxW9WnnDe7tGOa/s400/IMG_1617.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Pack of Ice-core researchers in San Francisco</div>
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While in San Francisco, I found time to run down Lombard street and the Filbert Steps...just because...why not? A few days later we did some hiking up and around the Marin Headlands with family and it finally seemed like the weight of our first semester was lifting. It finally felt like we were able to exhale.</div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2930509587">STRAVA: Lombard Loop with Filbert Steps</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivxN17r-jGkN9yyUlHoAI98rc2w6y4UN4ajqoCHRZwR1ZM9TBziCvYwk6YWPVYu4UHN0ZsW2_DERj5jfK3KMIeUyJQpnHPlAOj9zGZGIhpA4wa2QRVYhscAXdDyp13Wm40asJx9YZxRQef/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+11.54.06+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="771" data-original-width="1062" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivxN17r-jGkN9yyUlHoAI98rc2w6y4UN4ajqoCHRZwR1ZM9TBziCvYwk6YWPVYu4UHN0ZsW2_DERj5jfK3KMIeUyJQpnHPlAOj9zGZGIhpA4wa2QRVYhscAXdDyp13Wm40asJx9YZxRQef/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-02-24+at+11.54.06+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Lombard and Filbert Steps</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKq4NxhlW0GedMMTlHwKgLpfO7lnGJwRX9MfTMCuvMfgHRQNSX1P0roiI2q3tUqRNYjlh469UOpiw6nhvj9ioVsVHpRsR4A6kQDfZlDeHnPtwsQgIybX1gXwIriOEUX_H_QkFvWfDUP6kP/s1600/IMG_1618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKq4NxhlW0GedMMTlHwKgLpfO7lnGJwRX9MfTMCuvMfgHRQNSX1P0roiI2q3tUqRNYjlh469UOpiw6nhvj9ioVsVHpRsR4A6kQDfZlDeHnPtwsQgIybX1gXwIriOEUX_H_QkFvWfDUP6kP/s400/IMG_1618.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Top of Lombard Street</div>
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Headed down the Filbert Steps</div>
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Very large Banana Slug in Marin</div>
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Beautiful Marin hike</div>
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When we finally made it back from the travel and chaos, we enjoyed a nice quiet holiday in our new home. We set up our first tree, opened some gifts, and sat by a warm fire as the snow continued to fall outside. We did eventually make our way to Florida for the last week of December, and enjoyed several days with family and the warm sunshine. I carried on my somewhat-annual tradition of starting my running back up in earnest, by running loops around my mom's housing complex. This is the 3rd or fourth time that I've done this, and it's always a nice way to start things back up again.</div>
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A tiny frog in Florida</div>
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<b>LINK: <a href="https://www.strava.com/activities/2957658903">STRAVA: Christmas Loops at Mom's</a></b></div>
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We made it back to Flagstaff just before New Years, and decided to celebrate it like any good Flagstaff-er....by attending the 'World Famous' Pinecone drop downtown. It's meant to mirror the Ball Drop in Times Square...only much more silly. We were shocked at the size of the crowd, but couldn't think of a better way to say goodbye to 2019 than with a goofy celebration in our new home town. </div>
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The Great Pinecone Drop of 2019!</div>
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The street crowd in downtown Flagstaff for the New Year celebration.</div>
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A few days later, C and I would drive up through Northern Arizona and into Southwestern Colorado for a relaxing few days around Durango before the start of the new Semester. On the drive we drove past Monument Valley and reflected on how fortunate we've been the past year. I couldn't really think about how and where to end this post, so thought this was a pretty good place. I have no idea yet what 2020 is going to bring for me. Already in the first two months I've had quite a slew of amazing experiences that I can't wait to write about at the end of the year. One thing I do know, is that I'm definitely looking forward to heading back to the Boston Marathon this year for what I hope will be a much better experience than in 2018. Lastly, I'm eagerly awaiting my return trip to Hardrock to experience the wonder of that course again. That is probably what I am most looking forward to.</div>
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From an academic point of view, 2019 was also an incredibly good year for me. Aside from the obvious new job at NAU, I was also able to be quite productive with regards to getting some of my overdue research wrapped up and published. I managed to be involved with 7 separate manuscripts...2 as first author. I also finally finished setting up my research website here:</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">LINK: <a href="https://johnfegy.weebly.com/">Academic Research and Teaching Website</a></span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li>Hartman et al., “Volcanic glass properties from 1459 C.E. volcanic event in South Pole ice core dismiss Kuwae caldera as a potential source”, Scientific Reports, 9, 14437.</li>
<li>Winski DA et al., 2019. “The SP19 Chronology for the South Pole Ice Core – Part 1: Volcanic matching and annual-layer counting.”, Clim. Past, 15, 1793-1808.</li>
<li>Rowley NS, AM Carleton, JM Fegyveresi, 2019. “Relationships of West Greenland supraglacial melt-lakes with local climate and regional atmospheric circulation.” International Journal of Climatology, 1–14.</li>
<li>Fegyveresi, JM et al., 2019. "Visual Observations and Stratigraphy of the South Pole Ice Core (SPICEcore): A Preliminary Holocene (~10.2 ka) Accumulation Record and Depth-Age Chronology." ERDC/CRREL Report No. TR-19-10. ERDC-CRREL, Hanover, NH.</li>
<li>Gohl, K. et al., 2019. “Expedition 379 Preliminary Report: Amundsen Sea West Antarctic Ice Sheet History.” International Ocean Discovery Program.</li>
<li>Rowley NS and JM Fegyveresi, 2019. “Generating a supraglacial melt-lake inventory near Jakobshavn, West Greenland, using a new semi-automated lake-mapping technique.” Polar Geography, 1-20.</li>
<li>Fegyveresi JM et al., 2019. "Instruments and methods: A case study of ice core bubbles as strain indicators". Ann. of Glaciology, 60(78), 8-19.</li>
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Exhale....</div>
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So with this all said, I'd like to gracefully tip my head and express my gratitude to whatever cosmic forced were at play that allowed me to have the amazing 2019 that I did. I am extremely excited by this wonderful start to my proverbial next chapter. Every morning I wake up here in Flagstaff, I am practically giddy with how things have turned out...and I know just how fortunate I am.</div>
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So with that I say....Hike on my friends, </div>
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And I now say goodbye to 2019. May 2020 be another year full of adventures and new experiences...</div>
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Near Monument Valley...</div>
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Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-70101086586911182722020-01-20T17:37:00.001-05:002020-01-23T14:26:54.823-05:00The Never-ending Search for the Perfect Shoes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY9vFazxb5CZCpqgi8kxFNL619u4itWJd8yuRHYamZwadl4qCiW2avRdXkIYmpwrJ7OvdIZFOyKBzwrkXxTv9Mm-0NMaUQHMcZPudvkRy3bEFyaixTBdJP3yR1fBaoHBoSQDpSe5M5f-lM/s1600/shoe.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="500" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY9vFazxb5CZCpqgi8kxFNL619u4itWJd8yuRHYamZwadl4qCiW2avRdXkIYmpwrJ7OvdIZFOyKBzwrkXxTv9Mm-0NMaUQHMcZPudvkRy3bEFyaixTBdJP3yR1fBaoHBoSQDpSe5M5f-lM/s400/shoe.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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In my 12+ years of writing down my thoughts and ramblings here, it has been generally rare for me to comment on specific products, or to make any sort of personal endorsements for a brand. There have been some occasions where I've touted the success of certain things, particularly related to my thru-hiking experiences, but often I've found that many of those products fall out of favor with me given enough time.</div>
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A few things do make it through all of the cuts over the course of the years and I find myself still using happily, like my Casio Pathfinder watch, or my old Golite Jam pack...but almost always I find that a product that once seemed to serve me well, just doesn't hold up to longterm scrutiny. Many times it's simply because over the years products just change, and often for the worse. This is especially true for footwear. I'm sure everyone reading this has at some point found themselves running or hiking in the 'perfect shoe', only to find out a year later that it's being discontinued or replaced with an 'updated model' that is decidedly a step backward for some reason or another.</div>
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Wearing my Casio Pathfinder in 2007 on my AT thru-hike</div>
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My watch this morning (13 years later) while writing this post....</div>
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My trusty 2006 go-lite Jam on my Long Trail hike this past summer</div>
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I can recall the Brooks Cascadia 5 shoes I wore for most of my PCT thru-hike. They ended up being fantastic shoes for the hike, and I remember singing their praises in all my post-hike posts. Then, the Cascadia 6 came out and I noticed that they changed the design. They were never quite the same after that.</div>
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Brooks Cascadia 5's with over 1000 PCT miles on them</div>
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The bottom line is, that I've never been one that really embraces 'sponsorship' or 'endorsements'...as I've either never liked a product enough to truly dedicate myself to using only that product...and because I kind of just like doing my own thing. While I worked for a government lab, I definitely enjoyed being on the Promotive 'Army Corps of Engineers' government discount...which allowed me to score many brands at pro-deal prices. But I think I would feel not only a little disingenuous touting specific product (as no product is perfect), but also a bit boxed-in. I like being able to put on whatever shoes or clothing I feel like for a race or event, and not feel pressured to wear something because I'm 'contracted' to. To be fair, this is generally not a problem for me as I have only very rarely actually been contacted about 'sponsorship'...and I think it has been 100% because of my Barkley experience. Had there not been a documentary the year I ran, I probably would never be contacted...as quite simply, I'm a proud middle-of-the-pack runner. Middle-of-the-packers, really don't get sponsored all that often. Again...I'm ok with this, as I've always been one that has just done my own thing. In all cases I've been offered sponsorship, I've passed on those invitations (except for a 1-year pro-deal with Brooks back in 2009-2010)</div>
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<b>BUT...</b></div>
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With all this said, I find myself really wanting to relay my personal story and journey navigating the maze of running footwear over the past several years. Shoes are the golden pedestals that we all stand upon for our sport/hobby. In truth, it's really the only thing you need to be a runner (and some would argue you don't even need them, as you can simply run barefoot). I wanted to relay my story not because I'm hoping for, or want any kind of sponsorship, but simply because it has been a long journey for me, and I may have finally stumbled upon an unlikely happy solution. Perhaps my story can help some of you out there going through a similar journey.</div>
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When I starting running again in earnest back in 2008 (after several years of 'not running'), I was exclusively a road-runner. I was training for my first marathon, and so all of my miles were on pavement. I went to the local sporting goods store and bought a pair of simple Asics 1120's. These were my chariots for over a year. They were perfectly fine, did the trick, were relatively cheap, and honestly I didn't think much about it. </div>
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Asics 1120's</div>
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After my first marathon in 2008...rocking the 1120s</div>
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As the years progressed, and my interest turned to trails, I found myself starting to plunge into the quickly growing world of trail footwear. When I started to think about what shoes I was going to buy for this crazy new hobby of mine: 'trail running', I immediately thought back to what I wore on my Appalachian Trail thru-hike a year earlier in 2007. When I initially researched 'how to complete a thru-hike', I realized most faster hikers wore 'trail runners' and not clunky hiking boots. Upon some quick searching, it seemed like most were using Montrails. So...before my thru-hike I bought couple of pairs of Montrail Hardrock shoes, and they worked out swimmingly. Again, I didn't really put much thought into it...it just seemed to be what was successful for other thru-hikers.</div>
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On the AT, wearing my trusty Montrail Hardrocks.</div>
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Exactly one year later, while thru-hiking the Colorado Trail, I had my first experience with what I like to call "shoe extinction". The Montrail company had been recently purchased by Columbia, and the design and quality of my 'favorite' trail shoe, The Hardrock, changed drastically. After just a few hundred miles on the CT, I started experiencing major problems with my new pair of Hardrocks, leading to significant foot bruising and abrasion. For an entire day on the hike, I had to hike on-and-off wearing my Waldies (foam crocs). I was annoyed that such a great shoe had so quickly become effectively unwearable.</div>
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One Hardrock, one Waldie (croc)</div>
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I didn't want to give up completely on Montrail as they had been so good to me, so when I finally ran my first trail ultra (The 2008 Vermont 50), I went with a pair of Montrail "Continental Divide" shoes. Just as with the Hardrocks on the CT, the "Continental Divides" ended up rubbing my ankles raw at around the 35-mile mark. I still finished, but just about gave up on Montrail after that. I did ultimately end up giving Montrail one final try on my 2010 PCT hike, with a pair of their "AT Plus" shoes. They were supposedly designed with a thru hiker in mind. But..they too also failed miserably, and came apart after just a few weeks of hiking. Below is what I wrote on my PCT journal about the AT Plus shoes. It's a bit harsh, but really reflects my frustration and disappointment. True to my statement, I have not worn a Montrail since taking off the AT Plus shoes 10 years ago.</div>
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<i>"The Montrail AT Plus. I so wanted to believe in Montrail again. Desperately. The 'Hardrocks' were my chariots on my AT hike. In a last attempt, I logged on to Montrail.com in March and noticed that there was a brand new shoe out: the AT Plus. Montrail stated on their website, "You complained, and we listened". The AT Plus was supposed to be Montrail getting back to their days of "well designed shoes" and be a solid replacement to the Hardrock that lived up to the reputation of its good ol' days. Thousands of people complained to Montrail that their shoes had gone down hill, and they responded with a new and improved shoe line. I had hope again! I bit the bullet and bought the $110 pair of shoes, and stowed them away as my "Sierra Shoes". They were tougher and sturdier than the Brooks Cascadias, and would make for great mountain shoes. Long story short....they were CRAP. Within the first 100 miles, they began falling apart. Both shoes. Seams started coming undone, tread starting coming off, and I started getting friction spots and sore feet. Add to that the fact that they drain horribly, and I was walking over 500 miles on some of the toughest trail, in TERRIBLE footwear. I can't stress this enough....these shoes are GARBAGE. Every other hiker that I ran into wearing these I asked about their experience....and they all had similar ones. Shoes falling apart, making their feet sore...etc. Sorry Montrail, but you've lost me as a customer for life. I really wanted to believe that you had come back to your old ways, but you haven't. Good luck in the future."</i></div>
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Running in the Montrail "Continental Divides" in 2008</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVOrjpxclYYDIb3BTEkyCVggXuHgxVHBcwB7KKouZJnBKdhvYb6zc7VVDz3BAbeYiHWTPRQ7CiW3HYtOjCDbJ2Tkjodv47_sTdRL6-cXvBzrKgy8xdAMu2raS80drFihpCHYkchyr1HtrW/s1600/IMG_2888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVOrjpxclYYDIb3BTEkyCVggXuHgxVHBcwB7KKouZJnBKdhvYb6zc7VVDz3BAbeYiHWTPRQ7CiW3HYtOjCDbJ2Tkjodv47_sTdRL6-cXvBzrKgy8xdAMu2raS80drFihpCHYkchyr1HtrW/s320/IMG_2888.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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On Mt. Whitney in 2010 wearing my disappointing Montrail AT Plus shoes</div>
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Amongst this frustration though, was a source if real hope. Before my PCT thru-hike, I had poked around quickly on some blogs of other middle-of-the-pack runners, and found out what has been good for them. This is when I came across the Brooks Cascadia 5's that I noted above. After an incredibly positive experience with these shoes, I felt that I had finally found a longterm solution to my trail running. My plan was this: I'd continue to wear the Adidas for all of my road or 'junk' training miles, and then use the Cascadias for any trail miles.</div>
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And so it was for a while. All was well. I was happy and my feet were happy. But then Brooks released the Cascadia 6 model, and while they worked sufficiently, it was never quite the same. My feet just didn't fit the same, the cushioning on the bottom just wasn't right, and they just weren't as comfortable. I brushed it off and for years continued to use the various iterations of the Cascadias...including for 3 loops of my 2012 Barkley run in Cascadia 7s.</div>
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But...what has followed over the years has been an ever evolving, and never-ending quest for the 'right footwear'. I have changed out brands and styles multiple times, experimented with different road and trail shoes, and while sometimes finding a few gems, have never been completely satisfied with my footwear. Allow me to walk though through my 8+ year experiment...</div>
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Cascadia 5's still working great in 2011 at the Laurel Highlands 50k</div>
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A few months later at the Slacker Half Marathon in Colorado</div>
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Sporting the Cascadia 7's at the 2012 Barkley</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyRFJhLNpP-YS9gkaM88_sg8T1vOlbaK_54f5BUvVouX1PgxjQJKj4ln2Nlf4VRymQGFxCJTLrN9-XZrTXxRoFVV2REx6MbxsoUvhPZFkUy8UFgpz-H_c4iTESKtAuSXQb8IO9WfhnJsc8/s1600/177463_10103011829701024_657008021_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyRFJhLNpP-YS9gkaM88_sg8T1vOlbaK_54f5BUvVouX1PgxjQJKj4ln2Nlf4VRymQGFxCJTLrN9-XZrTXxRoFVV2REx6MbxsoUvhPZFkUy8UFgpz-H_c4iTESKtAuSXQb8IO9WfhnJsc8/s400/177463_10103011829701024_657008021_o.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Cascadia 7's at the 2012 Finger Lakes 50</div>
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Cascadia 8s? at the 2012 Leadville 100</div>
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Cascadia 8s? at the 2012 Oil Creek 100.</div>
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For a short period of time I started experimenting with a few different styles of shoes just to 'see what was out there'. I tried just once playing around with 'minimalist footwear' with a pair of New Balance M100's, only to severely injure my toe on a rock (an injury I still suffer from 9 years later).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZItMh16FUkRRFZt3RKzizdhyphenhyphenWtf-htjkr3UNe_wGolHBNRltq63z-IJX0Yjtsw_MiH7ZXAE3m56qp8L-VD4ednaIvBF_2oq_BQXmNR-JM5td57Wtv-eRqP6q5iLt4Xa5mWwtvuXNMk-Dq/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-06-06+at+8.16.07+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="496" data-original-width="329" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZItMh16FUkRRFZt3RKzizdhyphenhyphenWtf-htjkr3UNe_wGolHBNRltq63z-IJX0Yjtsw_MiH7ZXAE3m56qp8L-VD4ednaIvBF_2oq_BQXmNR-JM5td57Wtv-eRqP6q5iLt4Xa5mWwtvuXNMk-Dq/s400/Screen+shot+2011-06-06+at+8.16.07+PM.png" width="265" /></a></div>
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Experimenting with minimalist New Balance shoes at the Rothrock 30K</div>
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At some point around 2012 I also played around with a few pairs of Salomons as well, and ultimately decided they were too stiff.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwY2E8pYqGji2T-73mcUJ9xGae4wZcfhD59f21E4tNpLbLdFxrZqj62uhWJS9ZalpRZYXTqWEAj6EXhc3PdDSLuXuHHHH6U245jMqMttm-3LIrcozge_le9ql3hbtKtgHDkHrRq1-IbJ2N/s1600/IMG_0128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwY2E8pYqGji2T-73mcUJ9xGae4wZcfhD59f21E4tNpLbLdFxrZqj62uhWJS9ZalpRZYXTqWEAj6EXhc3PdDSLuXuHHHH6U245jMqMttm-3LIrcozge_le9ql3hbtKtgHDkHrRq1-IbJ2N/s400/IMG_0128.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Wearing some Salomons on a training hike</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOupuUM0hBioOIh2DmZDojqVQ9YhrgJpmq1wEHwHpoI4zQR2NrM1uaSW86mpEcdZEgCk3bCwlff_2wfcoyZU2bi8LySXI0JgdlNyZHbnRiBEjYaCfhRyEmisMq1b6rrOk7-SYoI7vEyA2B/s1600/27993095_10155730344308515_6240101291455083563_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOupuUM0hBioOIh2DmZDojqVQ9YhrgJpmq1wEHwHpoI4zQR2NrM1uaSW86mpEcdZEgCk3bCwlff_2wfcoyZU2bi8LySXI0JgdlNyZHbnRiBEjYaCfhRyEmisMq1b6rrOk7-SYoI7vEyA2B/s400/27993095_10155730344308515_6240101291455083563_o.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Using some Salomons at the TWOT 100</div>
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I can recall for one race, and one race only (Massanutten 100), I stumbled upon a pair of Scott Eride Grip2 shoes. They sort of worked ok, but they were really hard to buy online and that model was discontinued shortly after the race.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4-i_NsaCQHWoQXMsS4xBQjkERq-CMlGhqSIOoEtgNx5mSNFID-pcGXHNklzYp3osOXy8G-G2L_OuGl_R4Bor20kmYXYfektThdVyCWjMM_Pz4DIhnUDUrmBF-F6VL6wW8yK0LiAAZg8fT/s1600/IMG_5589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1452" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4-i_NsaCQHWoQXMsS4xBQjkERq-CMlGhqSIOoEtgNx5mSNFID-pcGXHNklzYp3osOXy8G-G2L_OuGl_R4Bor20kmYXYfektThdVyCWjMM_Pz4DIhnUDUrmBF-F6VL6wW8yK0LiAAZg8fT/s400/IMG_5589.JPG" width="362" /></a></div>
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My one and only elusive pair of Scott Grip2 shoes at Massanutten</div>
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After my 2013 Barkley attempt, a friend of mine suggested La Sportiva brand. I started with a pair of Helios and thought I had found my solutions. I settled on a few different models...all that seemed to do a pretty good job at the time. On the trail side of the footwear coin, I was somewhat content. After while though, it seemed every pair of Sportivas I purchased was narrower and narrower....causing me some foot discomfort.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiok6O7e5cvm1HJgZvvBawzkcv3IiRGMqHQH756RMJ42DhGALBUafV600tYr-9P_69Y8kyGwbHsKY8FEK5tSA9kexA48HihOY92hUD_74aianfq-svKmTM46o_jJUn8GGl9_cj0nPdASiwX/s1600/BMPW_130420_0049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="357" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiok6O7e5cvm1HJgZvvBawzkcv3IiRGMqHQH756RMJ42DhGALBUafV600tYr-9P_69Y8kyGwbHsKY8FEK5tSA9kexA48HihOY92hUD_74aianfq-svKmTM46o_jJUn8GGl9_cj0nPdASiwX/s400/BMPW_130420_0049.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
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Sportiva Helios</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvY0VPEvGsWDC-KmsUUK1lFNA_cmTNIC7CIxO8omOjEHEjkoMXOcwpderyUQ_KSg1HAwjkD5LIG2hcJy1r0McrBIobrmjqdB5FEntD0wJy57ELBm9uFGi5RKT-u-T1W2H1CFlb85bOAvQs/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvY0VPEvGsWDC-KmsUUK1lFNA_cmTNIC7CIxO8omOjEHEjkoMXOcwpderyUQ_KSg1HAwjkD5LIG2hcJy1r0McrBIobrmjqdB5FEntD0wJy57ELBm9uFGi5RKT-u-T1W2H1CFlb85bOAvQs/s400/photo.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Sportiva Bushidos</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpMAzhdF6E9W53VwiYOSlYbV_nQBGma67PYAcLg031C5prjlZZXubKxgRFJr3aimqB31Yp-29WOlJFMJ2j8jqEJ7q_sWT_ly1xiHk7XI3-aDjQubT3McJVr47yz7cPadrOBdP2dUytKxzV/s1600/12797961_917698968328264_1597583483_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="936" data-original-width="750" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpMAzhdF6E9W53VwiYOSlYbV_nQBGma67PYAcLg031C5prjlZZXubKxgRFJr3aimqB31Yp-29WOlJFMJ2j8jqEJ7q_sWT_ly1xiHk7XI3-aDjQubT3McJVr47yz7cPadrOBdP2dUytKxzV/s400/12797961_917698968328264_1597583483_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Sportiva Mutants</div>
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On the road side of the footwear coin however, I found that the pavement pounding was starting to hurt my legs and feet a bit more. This is when I discovered Hoka brand. For several years I was quite content to pound out my road miles in the soft rocker-style pillows that were Hokas. I even experimented in their trail shoes as well, although I would often roll my ankle quite a bit due to their large stack height.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnF4ZlV_RccR0ACZlQmqupG4EuO856bezBmsJT9wbyTmsQksVtwEjguD7N_1aPwuLT1d_rehlQu1aoY4kFNFTWjKrRDrUWpqL5WbPRbUjE2gcvACx5wvdXEqVDxFKq22grtOzHxZWVk73r/s1600/00810-07-4018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnF4ZlV_RccR0ACZlQmqupG4EuO856bezBmsJT9wbyTmsQksVtwEjguD7N_1aPwuLT1d_rehlQu1aoY4kFNFTWjKrRDrUWpqL5WbPRbUjE2gcvACx5wvdXEqVDxFKq22grtOzHxZWVk73r/s400/00810-07-4018.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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Around 2013, I started running a lot in Hokas</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxkR6ETB2CG13167nOgHWNyQATOqBs1yoWtE3Djoeba3Ww1mgPu-EoNitS5iY49dEu1yftOuDL0RNpHxb72onkD_nEBJtu1gQ-uPSFnAqLpRaM6udkKQ847ED3NU8TWCVaCV2vD_Wayjyz/s1600/10388076_10153295007838696_7877010101783015485_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="842" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxkR6ETB2CG13167nOgHWNyQATOqBs1yoWtE3Djoeba3Ww1mgPu-EoNitS5iY49dEu1yftOuDL0RNpHxb72onkD_nEBJtu1gQ-uPSFnAqLpRaM6udkKQ847ED3NU8TWCVaCV2vD_Wayjyz/s400/10388076_10153295007838696_7877010101783015485_n.jpg" width="350" /></a></div>
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The Bondi's were a life saver at very long paved miles</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrlX-QDoyymYv3jcT-GJ-NBpun0obzaNvUwb21VhDjwG2IdQf7B5aArg7SRj6DG2k6Dtue8EhxowsiXQNk9fqm6Jd69E3MAHVMqowsUZvOWbbKzg8dNAXnnOG6SUi0cIIgqUMghCn170x/s1600/IMG_2519.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="619" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrlX-QDoyymYv3jcT-GJ-NBpun0obzaNvUwb21VhDjwG2IdQf7B5aArg7SRj6DG2k6Dtue8EhxowsiXQNk9fqm6Jd69E3MAHVMqowsUZvOWbbKzg8dNAXnnOG6SUi0cIIgqUMghCn170x/s400/IMG_2519.JPG" width="298" /></a></div>
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Bondi's on the Vol State Course</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEime7xflCEQqGNKnAYYb9hD_BmHgjwXWcHzej2oqaZLFvhbDfPy-zstct65Tg-0ho7YJKXt3Qb28ly9_VswLXD-BRQVkrZodwNhrUTnusiauNDvCYJ3tpeAOo9e5pC7nqsiCDKUEjXV6QaU/s1600/IMG_6177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEime7xflCEQqGNKnAYYb9hD_BmHgjwXWcHzej2oqaZLFvhbDfPy-zstct65Tg-0ho7YJKXt3Qb28ly9_VswLXD-BRQVkrZodwNhrUTnusiauNDvCYJ3tpeAOo9e5pC7nqsiCDKUEjXV6QaU/s400/IMG_6177.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Hokas on Badwater course</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8LRi1xISm94dFkJrUrmIRzwU3R2rKRQVjBAKn6n9JBp3OVfX8TOAGtfLGlofCyQ6gyQTIwyxsKO4BX1Ek04T9eNIPgXYy1wll9FwsPRL67It3hyphenhyphenGkAA6mIKw-SZk_eWljiAzwVeRsbwWT/s1600/IMG_8516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8LRi1xISm94dFkJrUrmIRzwU3R2rKRQVjBAKn6n9JBp3OVfX8TOAGtfLGlofCyQ6gyQTIwyxsKO4BX1Ek04T9eNIPgXYy1wll9FwsPRL67It3hyphenhyphenGkAA6mIKw-SZk_eWljiAzwVeRsbwWT/s400/IMG_8516.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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More Bondi's at a 72-hr event.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpTjLPspdaAzSFtQLV_pZx1FYwAC79Gp5tZ4V_6SVVbo26tWR3-ffKlbDHnNAsdwQteZNkzBxbn1jupoTmw0xGCWsivjBVVg6knvMoEa4VKffRHkIlKuD5j-E7AOxdoioDWi_-RrgeVFF/s1600/19238003_10154493710002687_856588037911498275_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1440" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpTjLPspdaAzSFtQLV_pZx1FYwAC79Gp5tZ4V_6SVVbo26tWR3-ffKlbDHnNAsdwQteZNkzBxbn1jupoTmw0xGCWsivjBVVg6knvMoEa4VKffRHkIlKuD5j-E7AOxdoioDWi_-RrgeVFF/s400/19238003_10154493710002687_856588037911498275_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Hoka trail shoes at Western States 100</div>
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I can't remember when it was in all of this, but I also experimented a bit with Mizuno for my 'junk mile' shoes. They seemed to be great for daily trainers. I even wore some for the first 20 miles of Badwater. I can't recall exactly what it was about them, but ultimately I stopped wearing them. I think they may have given me some mild Plantar Fasciitis.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUvZgRNZ20VDmXH9P1W1y0mGkraqRH8Tw5WlzTCRkvqdm_lw8QkD0Y1uc-YscnS601AhQgBotAUyh1p38YJ9igs0SC-8nxd2oLng5cmw6n_DkAAIftjnnC1jozwRblv7awx3rTcW5V0-tI/s1600/7584279062_371dc1777f_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="487" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUvZgRNZ20VDmXH9P1W1y0mGkraqRH8Tw5WlzTCRkvqdm_lw8QkD0Y1uc-YscnS601AhQgBotAUyh1p38YJ9igs0SC-8nxd2oLng5cmw6n_DkAAIftjnnC1jozwRblv7awx3rTcW5V0-tI/s400/7584279062_371dc1777f_b.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Mizuno's made it into my rotation at one point...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgIUnR4T0M4bFf3lowW9pLOMsi4q-z6El-j24fToLd2ar5VZ3o2SmIHLT9zPQcY87x626JJs-578df4epQB4O-YD2ITdggzJAamSOEqGR3SlZDBexEXDSAN16uvaTVxRYvTO_k7XqClsTv/s1600/Pine_Creek_Challenge_2012+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgIUnR4T0M4bFf3lowW9pLOMsi4q-z6El-j24fToLd2ar5VZ3o2SmIHLT9zPQcY87x626JJs-578df4epQB4O-YD2ITdggzJAamSOEqGR3SlZDBexEXDSAN16uvaTVxRYvTO_k7XqClsTv/s320/Pine_Creek_Challenge_2012+%252812%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mizuno's at the Pine Creek Challenge</div>
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It was sometime around 2017 or 2018 that I started noticing a couple of things happening to both my preferred shoe lines, and my feet. I started noticing that the toe boxes of all of the various shoes that I liked...were all becoming more narrow. Along with this, I was noticing that not only did my toes feel squished in those toe boxes, but that I was starting to develop what's known as a Tailor's Bunion (or Bunionette). This is where the pinky toe bone starts to pop out due to the tip being pushed so far inward.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQAMvpHXlQXYZTWlD_mxwDG0Aiw5jBTt8MhTawnkfi7HzV94KXsVUDT_W7oN3DCdiJo2D0EkVVl4Dm7Wx_yL0UgaLAL9oIS0qeHmOEWJo_KCxhaoBk0nB3kx4xDXvJNL7JFDwMOsi24TL/s1600/110187_413_s_ZM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="583" data-original-width="1168" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQAMvpHXlQXYZTWlD_mxwDG0Aiw5jBTt8MhTawnkfi7HzV94KXsVUDT_W7oN3DCdiJo2D0EkVVl4Dm7Wx_yL0UgaLAL9oIS0qeHmOEWJo_KCxhaoBk0nB3kx4xDXvJNL7JFDwMOsi24TL/s400/110187_413_s_ZM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The newest Cascadia model has a incredibly pointy toe box</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Br0_CbxFBd1Q8TmObNVrpuq-PH7cMzftSKy8kMspm9hG1xBWirf8aTeM_w5yrOmwpbCzPUCMp5wZiY8fdDoxpRk3xS9o4aQT0P6x0yj8lp_aAqu3QHDdYKsRIjVAVgziLmtqgK0NwM9c/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+2.24.25+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="317" data-original-width="390" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9Br0_CbxFBd1Q8TmObNVrpuq-PH7cMzftSKy8kMspm9hG1xBWirf8aTeM_w5yrOmwpbCzPUCMp5wZiY8fdDoxpRk3xS9o4aQT0P6x0yj8lp_aAqu3QHDdYKsRIjVAVgziLmtqgK0NwM9c/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+2.24.25+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Who the heck has a foot shaped like this Hoka??</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBGmWW3GN89UbPESrXTgjGDlhyphenhyphenEctzg-uwBRB99tapcelUsV872UBFC6GuJmTUOtL-XurJ9cpFL3n9xMXEvzzNSEgNQ2qZAeqXQzXLwb0Sp482WRSZLX3bNPG2-6aIMbCoOEUKMJwgjNvz/s1600/IMG_1736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="501" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBGmWW3GN89UbPESrXTgjGDlhyphenhyphenEctzg-uwBRB99tapcelUsV872UBFC6GuJmTUOtL-XurJ9cpFL3n9xMXEvzzNSEgNQ2qZAeqXQzXLwb0Sp482WRSZLX3bNPG2-6aIMbCoOEUKMJwgjNvz/s400/IMG_1736.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
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You can see the small Tailor's bunion starting to form on my right pinky toe.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDsQ7XFtWFsb7If0Sa1evNugVRj-yl1zvDtnJu5HWJ_Gg2YUmzJk1Fet7jDGvSyjza82Lh8CrhZEQlUCCd8TNfoTFpEfSzWRlr0aeQebFzs5-wz0ZXWRbIVtWG5FsXe_D-v2wBSHo2LA09/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+2.27.49+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="303" data-original-width="410" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDsQ7XFtWFsb7If0Sa1evNugVRj-yl1zvDtnJu5HWJ_Gg2YUmzJk1Fet7jDGvSyjza82Lh8CrhZEQlUCCd8TNfoTFpEfSzWRlr0aeQebFzs5-wz0ZXWRbIVtWG5FsXe_D-v2wBSHo2LA09/s320/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+2.27.49+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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What a Tailor's Bunion looks like...</div>
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And so once I started realizing these trends, I began investing 'wide-toed' shoes. As expected, the most common brand that came up in my searching was Altra...known for the 'foot-shaped' wide toe boxes. So naturally, I gave them a try. It seemed like no matter what race or event I went to, everyone was wearing Altras. They were the hot new shoe brand that picked up an enormous amount of the consumer market. People were raving about them, they had established almost a cult following, and they had become so big that they were sponsoring major events like Western States. They made both trail and road shoes, so I thought if they worked out, perhaps I'd have the ultimate shoe solution after all!</div>
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So...I started running in Altras. I wanted so very badly for them to work out, to the point that I forced it beyond the point that I knew they weren't working. In truth, nothing about Altra ever quite worked for me. The cushioning never felt enough, I hated the zero-drop platform, and most of all, I was CONSTANTLY tripping in them. The road shoes worked out ok but they never really provided the cushioning that I was used to with the Hokas. Still, I kept trying. When I found the Timps, I thought I had finally found a trail shoe that was a winner. They had decent lugs, felt comfortable, and seemed like a good fit. I even wore them on my 270+ mile VT Long Trail speed hike. But in all honesty, they just weren't very good. The insole kept moving around in them, and the heel was also incredibly loose (along with an already roomy toe box). In addition, was the huge fact that for several trail races in a row that I wore the Timps, I tripped hard in them...once hitting my head really hard on a rock (and almost losing teeth). I even tripped a few times in the road shoes and just couldn't figure out why the hell I had such a hard time in them. I never had tripping problems before in any shoe, and it had gotten so bad, that I was literally afraid to run on trails for fear of hitting my head again. I would be out on trails, and terrified of falling. I could no longer enjoy the scenery and instead was just constantly watching my feet. I tried desperately to convince myself that Altra was the answer, and it took me a really really long time to admit to myself (after trying for over two years) that they were just a terrible fit for me. </div>
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But...who else made shoes with wider than normal toe boxes? Nobody really. I was honestly somewhat despondent about it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQyqK4pfTWgCw6x4la-EYhOI-c118eImTkg6N4ni-qA1OmWccXqIY3ltGM0FzdCFiuuLrd-8u8W_UwuRx8LCV3dyL9N8SCW4gmjAFynyqzH7G1t-8pUg7JX0Fco25KP0S5QkVdhvYy2xXw/s1600/IMG_0125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQyqK4pfTWgCw6x4la-EYhOI-c118eImTkg6N4ni-qA1OmWccXqIY3ltGM0FzdCFiuuLrd-8u8W_UwuRx8LCV3dyL9N8SCW4gmjAFynyqzH7G1t-8pUg7JX0Fco25KP0S5QkVdhvYy2xXw/s400/IMG_0125.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Rocking some Timps as my 'everyday shoes' while running lab instruments</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnyRDzobAH7QtZkHytxd-t5uclZZavqmXNpBBb-UtQG61Pgc9DD-c0lm-KprM2nP5mxHIDCG1VHqPwFSSaSWyqWTspCdhhv5ttbUtyzGsSDObTW1JCdKddJlIotQ_Bsn_ZBQhltv-x6oVY/s1600/IMG_0152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnyRDzobAH7QtZkHytxd-t5uclZZavqmXNpBBb-UtQG61Pgc9DD-c0lm-KprM2nP5mxHIDCG1VHqPwFSSaSWyqWTspCdhhv5ttbUtyzGsSDObTW1JCdKddJlIotQ_Bsn_ZBQhltv-x6oVY/s400/IMG_0152.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Some Altra's during a run on the Long Trail</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEFfktTIzX3wAj4az1Q-wu1gVMjMysqyhu39ZqnIYRYOhd-jUunYj4QjEhFJbpBhmJu1TkKWy9vB_M9moA5wqUTwxZZtDntro4CBndzhmmf-rljmu3E6hQWkoMn_p9hZ_ijLNPADyUv6Vl/s1600/IMG_0827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEFfktTIzX3wAj4az1Q-wu1gVMjMysqyhu39ZqnIYRYOhd-jUunYj4QjEhFJbpBhmJu1TkKWy9vB_M9moA5wqUTwxZZtDntro4CBndzhmmf-rljmu3E6hQWkoMn_p9hZ_ijLNPADyUv6Vl/s400/IMG_0827.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Wearing the Timps on my VT Long Trail speed hike</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCUjZRl_3zN1WgjZwTIRouVfh9kDJNFD4buHSX5ubm1xjm2uNNsRpqNsHU82P0LOLICtgrs8KuXNpjqbQr3_mqCqEUSUoCxYLpFar4CKNrT5_jYwMESLUcbPstTDv3CqzrnKZnKJJFVEY/s1600/74440549_10157688508564133_4665800927024775168_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="613" data-original-width="920" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCUjZRl_3zN1WgjZwTIRouVfh9kDJNFD4buHSX5ubm1xjm2uNNsRpqNsHU82P0LOLICtgrs8KuXNpjqbQr3_mqCqEUSUoCxYLpFar4CKNrT5_jYwMESLUcbPstTDv3CqzrnKZnKJJFVEY/s400/74440549_10157688508564133_4665800927024775168_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Wearing Altras at the Javelina Jundred - the last time I'd race in them</div>
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But then, in my last-minute desperation, I stumbled across a shoe brand that I had not previously considered, or really even knew about in all honesty. In searching for "wide toe box trail runners', I stumbled across Topo brand shoes. I figured why not try them and see. I picked up a pair of their Ultraventure trail runners and was pleasantly surprised by the ample toe-box size, the amount of cushioning, and the Vibram/grippy outsole. I tested them out at the Barkley Fall classic and was ecstatic at how well they worked out. No tripping, excellent cushioning, and great traction throughout. Could this be? I had also worn them for a shorter 35K race at the Mogollon Monster and they worked great there as well. A couple months later, I put them on again for the MMTR 50 in Virginia with my Barkley friends, and they were again a big success. I have still not tripped or fallen in them, and they continue to impress me. I have been up and down the Mt. Humphreys trail here in Flagstaff a few times in them with no issues, and ran a really fast race at the Coldwater Rumble 20 miler last weekend. I have been nothing but impressed with these shoes since purchasing them. They fit my feet, have a snug heel...yet wide toe box, and fantastic grip. They also have a moderate amount of heel-to-toe drop (~5 mm), which is perfect for me; I cannot stress how much I dislike zero-drop. This is the first time in almost 10 years that I can honestly say a shoe feels right on my feet and that I'm genuinely happy with. I really really hope Topo does not discontinue this line. I have never felt the need to write a post on here about specific product...but having searched so long for a shoe that really works perfectly for me, I had to relay my experience. These are genuinely great shoes...that for whatever reason, you just don't see that much at trail events. At the Coldwater Rumble last weekend (of course being the data-driven scientist that I am), I looked around at what everyone was wearing on their feet to gauge what is leading the shoe market right now. I would estimate probably 80% of those I looked at were either Altra or Hoka, with a few Sportivas or Salomons in the mix. In all the feet I looked at, I saw only one other runner wearing Topos, and all I thought was...'man, if people only knew!'</div>
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As far as Topo road shoes, I've been trying out both their Zephyrs (daily trainers) and the Phantoms (more cushioned long mile shoes). I'm still forming a full opinion of these models, but so far they have also been quite impressive.</div>
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So for those of you wondering...please understand...I get nothing by saying these things. I'm not sponsored by Topo, I have no skin in the game. I simply wanted to relay my story hoping it may help some of you out there going through the same never-ending search for those perfect shoes. Sometimes, you just have to look little outside of what's most popular. </div>
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So...here's to hoping that Topo keeps the Ultraventures going strong for years to come, and that they don't significantly change their design, or narrow the darn toe boxes!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL4oQtSkAE5efU9TBqfQzm1gZ12MM-WOaHpMkI0NeCCG14u3c7GTKMkEJlvSMjKi5ceWAd29rmGh36kzneQ6xXKAQqT7Ii17IaUIXwfimMCZdC1-HXavNimoZ5qC3Bul0ZPhQO0Tri5XQx/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-10-03+at+7.10.06+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="845" data-original-width="901" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL4oQtSkAE5efU9TBqfQzm1gZ12MM-WOaHpMkI0NeCCG14u3c7GTKMkEJlvSMjKi5ceWAd29rmGh36kzneQ6xXKAQqT7Ii17IaUIXwfimMCZdC1-HXavNimoZ5qC3Bul0ZPhQO0Tri5XQx/s400/Screen+Shot+2019-10-03+at+7.10.06+AM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Wearing my Topos at the BFC 50k</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhvMPWpMfwFT5sydl-L4kg-ZYTzqGMJ7buzGJdFCyl5nVemtHyVFFxwImUSIwosMLAgK5YDXFezb8_hfu2mrVxC_JckQN6RurwFLsF-CyqQsLOdaOdOVziVjjnt24bQhIv8HMpLJq3FYE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+2.45.36+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="669" data-original-width="521" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXhvMPWpMfwFT5sydl-L4kg-ZYTzqGMJ7buzGJdFCyl5nVemtHyVFFxwImUSIwosMLAgK5YDXFezb8_hfu2mrVxC_JckQN6RurwFLsF-CyqQsLOdaOdOVziVjjnt24bQhIv8HMpLJq3FYE/s400/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+2.45.36+PM.png" width="311" /></a></div>
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The Ultraventures at the Mogollon Monster 35K</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi806GsAliH-WLm5nRrlN7KEupH3fJoRefIUtSmIM3xZyn7f0httafypISdcliMPqEs2t8rc1V_14Rzo7oPIho-j8O5IxeLejf8PGVkhft3D8fbjYjz2vaX3Dqbgz7BrRscfgPE0SSDY5n2/s1600/IMG_1531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi806GsAliH-WLm5nRrlN7KEupH3fJoRefIUtSmIM3xZyn7f0httafypISdcliMPqEs2t8rc1V_14Rzo7oPIho-j8O5IxeLejf8PGVkhft3D8fbjYjz2vaX3Dqbgz7BrRscfgPE0SSDY5n2/s400/IMG_1531.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Enjoying my Ultraventures at MMTR with my Barkley friends.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrgvF3ls6ATgnCLUwAYdinFy-frgmpd6syNYDdl_mA8qBOMjadQlK4f6F2rnKG_tqPd5K1WdCP3IFK-QrTcBdy5bJYnpNM5n214wv5iEShyphenhyphene3Oz2pdRWlCTycyWcMipwvoUnFZYzPiJIAW/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+2.58.10+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="458" data-original-width="443" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrgvF3ls6ATgnCLUwAYdinFy-frgmpd6syNYDdl_mA8qBOMjadQlK4f6F2rnKG_tqPd5K1WdCP3IFK-QrTcBdy5bJYnpNM5n214wv5iEShyphenhyphene3Oz2pdRWlCTycyWcMipwvoUnFZYzPiJIAW/s320/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+2.58.10+PM.png" width="309" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipppvF5AkS3TsV5otSuNRvw3cLsyFMX3o_Qs6YwVhBVsZDQR5Qvel5RpxtOWxMoDwPi4SYGEMgYMg4EAQGscZhi-dfQiZZS0fAEeq9FpTTpkxdVzUxFuzuCXonume2jJHABLSMmPdZkTk9/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+3.05.27+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="385" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipppvF5AkS3TsV5otSuNRvw3cLsyFMX3o_Qs6YwVhBVsZDQR5Qvel5RpxtOWxMoDwPi4SYGEMgYMg4EAQGscZhi-dfQiZZS0fAEeq9FpTTpkxdVzUxFuzuCXonume2jJHABLSMmPdZkTk9/s320/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+3.05.27+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Awesome Vibram/grippy lugs</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQYJfEZowRA7YfTqxSz2G0MxhbKbHy9OevSytTpryagvEVWPNpsSlNti_gG7esrHPhrf0ngVvkFXmIfLX3QoPNCIW0-ukI3od0qLGtQeOut7-K2seSHJz3V78WDThZQw-mpq6FBIJCZa1/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+3.05.35+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="377" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyQYJfEZowRA7YfTqxSz2G0MxhbKbHy9OevSytTpryagvEVWPNpsSlNti_gG7esrHPhrf0ngVvkFXmIfLX3QoPNCIW0-ukI3od0qLGtQeOut7-K2seSHJz3V78WDThZQw-mpq6FBIJCZa1/s320/Screen+Shot+2020-01-20+at+3.05.35+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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and a fairly ample toe box and wide mid-foot</div>
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One last thing....I hope to have my 2019 year-in-review post up soon as well. For now, keep on hiking/running...and please don't trip on any trails!</div>
Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1245249781884723223.post-10774374049924900312019-11-10T13:31:00.002-05:002019-11-10T13:31:59.313-05:00Another November (MMTR, Javelina)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKsG7FySfeEHVcTJGbEQ6P7FXK8bGTrSOIc1CbkKP7ICFtKZhdNaMNeYlhB2w2kPU9tbl3GndEhNKSGkT2occiew2ITpkfoyo8U_Vo7MtfWrW5dpUrboGhOPLpw5Jod9GlC0xFgIhrMqV9/s1600/IMG_1529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKsG7FySfeEHVcTJGbEQ6P7FXK8bGTrSOIc1CbkKP7ICFtKZhdNaMNeYlhB2w2kPU9tbl3GndEhNKSGkT2occiew2ITpkfoyo8U_Vo7MtfWrW5dpUrboGhOPLpw5Jod9GlC0xFgIhrMqV9/s400/IMG_1529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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The Barkley MMTR Crew</div>
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(AT, Hortie, JB, Trav, Me)</div>
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November has come again...and that means I'm another year older. It's hard to believe it was 12 years ago now that I hiked the AT, and almost 10 since the PCT. For the past 6 years now, I have looked forward to November not only as the herald of my favorite time of year, but also because it brings what has become my favorite running weekend of the year. Every November, a group of us former Barkley alumni, all gather in central Virginia for a fun-filled weekend of story telling, barbecuing, running, and all around revelry. The weekend is officially bookended around the Saturday Mountain Masochist Trail Run (50 miler), but really it's just an excuse to meet up. I'm a late addition to this annual tradition, but grateful to now be a regular. Andrew Thompson, Jonathan Basham, and Travis Wildeboer have all been meeting up like this and running the MMTR since 1999, and each now have 20+ finishes. I talked a lot about the MMTR <a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2018/11/another-fun-filled-fall.html">last year</a>. Me...well this year was my 5th (I had to skip 2016 as I was deployed to Antarctica). Travis made a comment this year that he has now been running MMTR for more years than he hasn't (he's 40, and run MMTR 21 times). I have a hard time wrapping my head around that. What was I doing in 1999? Well, I was starting my first job out of college at 22 years old in Cleveland, OH. Seems like a lifetime ago.</div>
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This year, JB was going for his 20th finish, so of course we all had to be there. For me, getting to VA this year was tough. I am in the midst of my first 6 months of a new job, and can't afford to take any days off. Part of what makes the MMTR weekend fun, is that it is a long weekend. Most of us generally show up Thursday evening, and don't leave until Monday...giving us some time to unwind and kick back. For me this year, I had slip in late Friday night, run Saturday, and then slip away Sunday afternoon. It was not ideal, and I made the weekend seem almost non-existent. With that said, I am still really happy I was able to make it work, despite the rushed feeling of it all. </div>
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Part of what made the weekend this year a bit anxiety-filled, was that the previous weekend, I ran the Javelina Jundred. Now I say "ran", but truthfully, a lot of it was fast hiking. I had planned to use Hardrock as my Western States Qualifier this year, but when it was canceled, I found myself in a real bind. I knew I'd be moving to Arizona, and wouldn't have time to train properly. A friend of mine from Boston, Melissa, told me she was running Javelina, and I agreed to sign up as well. I knew it was in AZ, so might work for a last minute WS qualifier. I also knew I wouldn't get in the training though. Back in 2014, I proved to myself, that with enough determination and base fitness, it is possible to finish a 100-miler and <a href="http://lakewoodhiker.blogspot.com/2014/10/a-random-smattering-from-weary-grad.html">qualify for WS with essentially no training</a>, but I was also 5 years younger then. I honestly wasn't sure with my lack of training, that I'd be able to do it again. Thankfully, Javelina, is a relatively modest course, and I knew if I simply ran the first 40 miles or so, that I could walk-run the remaining 60 and still finish well ahead of the cut-off. I asked Melissa what her time goal was, and she said ~26 to ~27 hours. I asked if she'd mind if I ran with her for a while. Well....we ended up doing the entire 100 together and it was a delight. We finished in 26 and a half hours, right on target with what we were aiming for. Running with Melissa, kept me motivated through my low spots and we both were able to secure that WS qualifier. The irony, is that I have no desire to run WS next year as I will be running Hardrock (assuming it happens of course). I only hope to tick off another year in the WS lottery to accrue more tickets. This is only year 3 for me, so I only have 4 tickets and about a 3-4% chance of selection.</div>
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Javelina Jundred and some Cactii</div>
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Sunrise on the Javelina Course</div>
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Finishing Javelina</div>
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Javelina Course</div>
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Javelina was a genuinely wonderful experience overall, and I'm glad I was still able to gut out an "untrained" hundred. With all this said though, I was worried that trying to run a 50 miler with 9500 feet of gain one week after Javelina, might give me some major problems. The thing about MMTR, is that we always run it incredibly slowly and casually. We aim for a 12 hour finish each year. That way, we can spend 12 hours chatting it up on the trail and trading stories, without too much effort. The issue is that on a course like MMTR, you honestly have to run a lot. It's a tough course and doesn't allow for much slow walking or standing around at aid stations. If you are going to run it for a 12-hour finish, you have to keep moving and run a significant portion of it. There's always a point about 35 miles into the race where we all panic for a little bit doing the math to make sure we'll make it in with before the cut-off. This year, that was my job. A few times I had to let the other guys know..."hey, we actually have to run for a bit here if we wanna stay ahead of the cut-offs". Somehow, we always end up finishing around 11:45, so it all works out. I do think though, that as we all get older, that this will become harder and harder to do.</div>
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With all this said, it was an incredible, albeit short, weekend. I've been settling into my new job and home in Flagstaff, and enjoying the wonderful trails and roads. I've hiked quite a bit up around Humphreys and through the Aspens when they were at their prime colors. The trails here are very different then on the East Coast. I do find them quite soothing, and I love the Ponderosa Pines, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss the peaceful calm of the Vermont woods. When I was in Virginia, I felt incredibly nostalgic running through the woods and the East coast trees. It will take some time for me to feel a new sense of home in Flagstaff, despite it's inherent beauty. I've lived in the North East for over 40 years. I grew up playing in the woods of Upstate New York. Arizona is so very different.</div>
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Finishing MMTR (#20 for JB)</div>
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The entire crew at the finish</div>
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The MMTR</div>
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My new training grounds in Flagstaff</div>
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More Flagstaff Trails</div>
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More Flagstaff Trails</div>
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Typical evening in Flagstaff</div>
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Typical ascent of Humphreys (~10 miles - 3hrs)</div>
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Lakewoodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12938008753635063175noreply@blogger.com0