Journey of an Angel

Journey of an Angel

I am not sure what prompted me to click the button and sign up to become an Ainsley’s Angel.  I know I was nervous after submitting the form – the website states, “Do you have what it takes to be an Ainsley’s Angel?”  As I stared at the computer I wondered, do I???  

Of course, I received an email almost immediately from the Florida Ambassador, Jodi Stoner: 

Hello Jill, I just received your registration for Ainsley's Angels in Florida!!!! So excited for you to join our team... you will be blessed in so many wonderful ways!!!!!

Uh oh, it’s real now.  My excitement and anxiety skyrocketed! 

Fast forward to April, 10^th, 2016 - I just celebrated my one year anniversary as an Angel at the Iron Girl race in Clearwater, FL.  It’s hard to imagine life without the Angels now as they have become an integral part of my life.  

I have met so many wonderfully kind, generous, thoughtful, gigantic hearted people plus all the kids and adult athlete riders whose smiles and laughter and chants to, “run faster” melt my heart.

I never knew I could smile so much or soar so high!  Feelings of euphoria surround every Angel event and leave me floating on cloud nine in the hours and days after!  I never want to come down and I cannot wait for the next race.

I thought this endeavor would allow me to enjoy something I love and give back.  Reflecting on my time with the Angels, I realize I am the lucky one who has been blessed (as Jodi foreshadowed in our first communication).  

I am beyond grateful and honored every time 

I lace up to challenge myself, my Angel Athlete and fellow Angels to create an amazing experience that will carry us to the finish line!

I am hopelessly addicted and I LOVE every minute of it!

As I try to sum up my feelings, this quote a friend posted comes to mind:

"Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take with you nothing you have received, but only what you have given: a full heart enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice, and courage."                                                                                        -St. Francis of Assisi 

We all have an inner Angel waiting to unfurl their wings.  

Thank you Run Jodi for freeing mine!

Together We Shall

 MISSION-In addition to ensuring everyone can experience endurance events, Ainsley's Angels of America aims to build awareness about America's special needs community through inclusion in all aspects of life.  Serving as advocates to providing education and participating as active members in local communities, we believe everyone deserves to be included.

Cloud 9

It seems like forever since I’ve written on the blog and I have definitely missed it!  Once you stop, it’s easy to come up with excuses and continue to put it off another day.  I struggle because I am on the computer most of the day and then the last thing I want to do is get on the computer at night.  I want to be outside, be lazy, play with the dogs, exercise and enjoy time with my love.  Work, time, energy-is there ever enough?  All more excuses... so to heck with could’ve, would’ve, should’ve and fear.  Here's my New Year’s blog and end of year recap a few months delayed:)

Although I may have been quiet online, 2015 went out with a bang!  

Ainsley’s Angels of Florida had their first ever 1/2 marathon and set a high standard!  Words can barely describe the flood of emotions that overwhelmed me on this incredible day!  There were over 100 runners and 10 plus riders.  This was my first time to push for a half and I was extremely nervous and anxious.  

As soon as our wheels hit the pavement, my worries dissipated! This was a joyous event from start to finish! Everyone was excited and energetic to share in this inaugural event and the electricity was infectious!  A smile spread across my face upon arrival and was pretty much permanent the rest of the day.  Only one word-WOW!  Jodi Stoner and the Angel’s army created an inspiring event that changed lives that day - especially mine!

Next up was the Lighthouse Loop 1/2 marathon with our besties, but first a surprise birthday party from Wendy’s parents—hello cupcakes:)  

The Lighthouse Loop is a great event with ocean views, enthusiastic water stations, a lighthouse and a small bridge at the end to make sure you are awake after 12 miles of zero elevation;)  Seriously, a top notch event in Port Orange and a post-race buffet to feed the city!  

Close friends welcomed a precious baby girl into 2015 and another announced they are “Due in April".

A cupcake gender reveal party ensued—a girl is on the way:) Don’t drink the Clearwater water;)

Time to work off all the cupcakes—

cue the Wildhorse 1/2 marathon/never-ending race/walk/crawl.  

OMG—I think we left someone behind, sound off...!  

Shout out here to my Wildhorse B-tches as we now lovingly 

refer to ourselves for conquering this ridiculously, challenging, 

wildlife extravaganza and maze through the “real” Florida!  

This adventure sealed our friendship girls:)

I got a run buddy just in time for Thanksgiving and ran my first race for her—so pumped!  See IRUN4.  This girl motivates me every day.  She has a wonderful spirit and generous heart and together we impact the world!

Following on the heels of Thanksgiving was the Space Coast (SC) marathon which truly was “out of this world”-would you expect anything less!  I hope I do not blow SC's cover but this race is a hidden gem in Florida.  Literally, 26 miles of a waterfront view and flat, flat, flat.

In addition to a fabulous course, the support along the route was spectacular as well.  Lots of Princess Leia’s, Storm Troopers, Vader Chewie and on the second half-top shelf vodka and beer from the locals.  

But nothing beats the pizza party and record setting bed-jump the night before to loosen up our legs for the big day;)  Congrats to Angela and Anne for completing their first marathon-HUGE accomplishment!!!  

Another unforgettable race and oh yeah, we all just signed up to do it again this November—may the “force” be with us!  

Big excitement—our bestie’s daughter made the basketball team!  Her first time to play and what growth we saw over the season—our girl gots skillz!!!  We can’t wait for the 2016 season. In the meantime there is track and she’s made the first cut as of this posting!  

Over the Christmas break I was able to return home and visit with friends and family.
I wish AR was a little closer for more quality time with my niece
and nephew.

Time flies when you travel and I am yearning for some peeps to come visit me (hint, hint).

This brings 2015 to a close; however, 2016 kept the momentum rolling!

First on the agenda, Ainsley’s Angels fearless leader, Jodi Stoner’s 100th half marathon.  Yes, I just typed 100 half marathons. Please pick up your jaw and keep reading;)

Anticipation began to build for this spectacular day at the start of the New Year!  All I could think about was this race so I cannot imagine the emotions surrounding the guest of honor!!!  This was also an Ainsley’s event.

I was pushing for my second half marathon and two looming bridges stood in the way.  It’s an out and back course so my dread at the only hills in Florida was times two!  I gathered strength from the prior Ainsley’s half and knew it was going to be an amazing day! Boy was I wrong—the day was not amazing, it was nothing short of a miracle!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  

We battled the elements of wind, cold, sand, wind, flying debris (think “Twister” movie) and did I mention 40 mph winds… but WE persevered.  Nothing was going to stop this Angel Army—we all ran hand-in-hand across the finish line.

I always think, WOW, this was the best race and then I run/push/am pulled by an Angel Athlete and it just gets better and better.  Thank you Angel family—riders, cheer squad, runners, photographers, spouses, and friends. Your purpose, tenacity, bravery, kindness, generosity and downright heroism fuels me and influences lives at every single race!  Who knew what I thought was giving would be so rich in receiving!

I’m still flying high from the 100th half and I’m not coming down anytime soon-watch out 2016!

Still alive

I can't believe it has been over a month since my last blog post...

FYI--we (Team Jogging Dead) all survived the PTC.  I say survived because we all encountered challenges along the way, yet we persevered and conquered.

I learned a lot about myself during those 46.2 miles and I learned a lot about the spirit of generosity. It was a FREE event and all aid stations were supplied by local business volunteers and their donations.  Random support crews for other teams offered water, Gatorade, pretzels, bananas, watermelon, etc.  Other runners offered me salt tabs, hydration drinks and motivation to keep pushing.  Plus friends and our own crew leapfrogged along with our group from St. Pete to Tarpon for over 12 hours!

I know humbly that I could not have made it without the support and encouragement of my team and crew!

Although I may not be able to personally thank all those who helped me accomplish the journey, I will continue to pay the hospitality forward!

Laurel and Jai'Lin deserve special medals as they spent the entire day jumping in and out of the 4Runner with coolers, chairs, food, as well as pouring water and ice into our packs and getting whatever we needed (every few miles).

Extraordinary gratitude goes out to Kim Stuart for following Wendy and I during a bad spell to ensure I cooled down and kept going.  Buffy, Laurel and her kids all treated me like an ER patient in Dunedin--placing a cool cloth on my neck and getting me food and drink "stat";)  I know I am biased when I say that nurses make the best crew!!!

Someone else of mention is my wife, who biked the final 18 miles with me.  These were not the "early excitement and energy at the start of the race" miles... these were dark times and the vows, "in sickness and in health" were tested that day.

It is not easy to watch your partner suffer and she managed to stay positive and keep me moving forward when every ounce of my body cried out to stop.  I am in debt to Wendy and Kim for getting me through those grim hours and Laurel for being there every step of the way!



The day after the race was a day of reflection and this quote came to mind:

The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.

-Thomas Paine

If anyone would have said something to this affect during the race, I may have tried to hurt them (remember, I was not in my right mind after 8 hours of running in the heat).  

However, a crazy smirk sneaks across my face today as I remember the last miles and crossing the finish line! The PTC was the hardest race I have ever faced.  It was not pretty or easy and some parts were downright miserable.  I am not sure I can explain but the struggles that day made the finish all the more sweeter.

I learned a lot about the human spirit that day--we are all stronger than we ever believe imaginable!

Why do You Run?

The question, "Why?" has come up recently when I  mention running the Pinellas Trail-all 46.2 glorious miles.  I am not sure I really have an answer but I saw some comical signs about long distance "ultra" running and thought I would share the humor.

I started running as a cheap, quick and easy way to exercise.  When I played sports, I actually hated running.  Typically, running was used as a punishment.  After college, without a group activity, I felt a little lost .  I remember seeing my neighbor running all the time; and I thought, I can do that!  I put on some shorts, a cotton t-shirt, some tennis shoes and took off. Training, pacing--what's that?!?  Full throttle out the door, I was huffing and puffing in no time. Hmmmmm, maybe I should slow down;)

I never thought of running as a sport back then.  It was something to do to relieve stress and burn calories.  I ran/jogged for several years before even hearing about "races".  Running was a track event in my young mind.

My first race was incredible.  I completely got caught up in the energy and excitement of the event!
I shot off the start line like a cheetah and quickly relearned my first running experience--slow down!  Muscle memory did not trigger my brain/body fast enough and I thought I lost a lung by mile 2.
Everything started to cramp and I was forced to slow.  Pride kept me pushing--I could not let people pass me now!
Needless, to say I was hooked.
Aaaaaahhhhhhhhhh--ignorance is bliss.

Of late, I have rediscovered my youthful bliss during PTC training runs.  I mentioned before about a "runner's high" but this euphoric state seems illusory.  However, I have found that when I run 2 hours or more, a peaceful calm occurs.  I am not saying my body and legs feel awesome or anything (most of the time something aches).

Yet in this timezone, there is a spiritual transcendence.
The journey typically happens when running solo but I have found myself in the realm during quiet periods of a group run and in races (most recently, the Disney Marathon).

It is a beautiful experience and replicable versus the runner's high. Maybe it is just my brain playing tricks on me... I am curious if others have found this nirvana?

Ultra races don't always have t-shirts or medals so why would you run all day?  There is no rhyme or reason.
Call me crazy and I will smile ear to ear:)

Shiny, happy people

Running on the Pinellas Trail is an experience like no other.  You never know what you will see or encounter.  Last weekend, my "Jogging Dead" partners (Cherry & Dawn) and I spent A LOT of time on the Pinellas Trail (7 hours per the Garmin).  We conquered 30 miles!  As usual, I get ahead of myself, so let me recap our travels:)

To spice things up, we decided to head down south on the trail.  We have run from the Publix at the Curlew/Dunedin Causeway intersection probably 100 times (I feel like I know every turn and landmark from Sunset Point road to Klosterman).  This is still a favorite spot but we needed a change of scenery, literally!  Using a run map app, I created a route to see some sights in the Largo/St. Pete area.

The original goal was to begin at Taylor Park and head south to Tyrone Mall.  There are city parks and water stops along the way as well as a Target and CVS.  As Saturday drew closer and we started to analyze the path, 16 miles one-way seemed kind of daunting.  Instead, we decided to begin the adventure at Walsingham Park and take advantage of Cherry's car/mobile aid station and bathrooms.

(shelter at Walsingham Park--aka "home base")

We began our journey around 8am and headed south.  Everything was new to D & C, including the park.  I used to live in Seminole and rode my bike on this part of the trail many times; however, there were new additions and many more people on the trail than in my past experiences.

It seemed like we came upon Seminole City Park fairly quickly which is a great rest stop, thanks to nice bathrooms, water and shade.  We had our CamelBaks and no need for a bathroom break yet so kept moving.  A couple of bikers in passing asked us if we happened to be on the Courtney Campbell Causeway a few weeks ago?  We were like, "Yeah, we were there!"  I guess our 3-pack stands out.  This has been a topic during our runs--hydration packs give off the vibe we are hard core runners--hahaha!  Maybe too it has something to do with "3" of us running; our merry little group?  Perhaps 3 really is "the magic number";)  Please tell me someone gets the De La Soul reference!?!  Whatever the cause for attention it was fun to share our story with this lady and her friends.  They rode along with us for a few yards, enough for us to fill them in on why they kept seeing us running all over the county and our goal to run the entire P-trail. They swore to look for us Sept. 5th!

Over the next few miles, bikers would call out, "good job, ladies", "great pace" and "keep it up"!  Random strangers giving us a shout out made me smile and gave me energy to keep pushing!  I took each cheer as a high five and faith in the kindness of humanity!

(view of Long Bayou near Bay Pines)

Around mile 7ish we did need to make a pit stop at Target.  FYI--the Target entrance is at the far end of the parking lot--for a quick stop go to CVS;)  We enjoyed some ice cold water and continued forward towards the mall.  This part of the trail can be sketchy and it had not changed much since my Seminole days!  We decided to continue on to Azalea Park for water and a bathroom in order to make the return journey without stopping (wishful optimism).  Mile 9 accomplished.

After a longer than anticipated stop (hidden bathrooms and water fountains that barely dribble) we were back on the trail.  Another feature of this area are all of the overpasses.  I think we ran up and over 4 just on the south tour (see pics below).  Compared to our typical northern routes from Curlew--this was hilly!

We got back into a rhythm and knocked out some miles.  Just after Target and an overpass, a guy pulled up by me and said, "Can I ask you a question?"  "Of course", I said and he asked, "I saw you girls as we rode north and now I'm seeing you girls again on the way home--are you running to Miami?"  I just cracked up.  I told him we were prepping to run the whole trail Sept. 5th and to make sure to come out that Saturday.  He waved and rolled on.

The KOA campground came into view and I wanted to stop to pour some water over my head (it was starting to heat up).  Dawn went in search of ice and Cherry to the vending/office.  Dawn needed a quarter for water and/or a couple of bucks for ice.  I only had a quarter left from my big Target shopping spree-water it was.  There was a nozzle only, so we held one of the packs underneath it.  Once D hit the button, the water shot out of the hose like a tsunami.  Her pack filled in seconds and then water kept gushing as I rushed to place mine under the stream.  Mine filled just as quickly with the water continuing to pour all over the concrete.  A few campers wandered by and I prayed the water would shut off.  Thankfully, it stopped but we discovered this crazy scene was anti climatic as the water was not cold at all:(  We still had 7 miles to go, the room temp. water would have to do.  We fastened up our packs and prepared to take off when Cherry strolled over carrying a gallon of water.  She was smiling ear to ear--she had ice cold water, only $1.86.  Say what?  I paid the same price for 16 ounces at Target!@#$%

We reluctantly dumped the water we just chaotically filled into our packs and all 3 took advantage of the cold stuff. The gallon was not empty so Dawn said she would carry it. Needless, to say we received a few looks as our 3-pack grew with the addition of the gallon jug.  We took turns lugging the quarter gallon around--what a sight!   I wish I had a picture of this ensemble.  We finished the water at Seminole Park and said goodbye to the plastic!

This was one of the first runs in awhile where the sun was out and not a threat of rain in sight.  We have been lucky in our last few outings with cloud cover and rain (sometimes light, sometimes not--but always better than melting sun).  Although the sun was out the humidity was not near as thick and we were moving along a half a mile at a time.

Close to our rendezvous point, we saw a lady pushing two small dogs in a stroller.  We passed this lady on our way out and as we neared she called out and asked, "Are you girls running the PTC?"  We couldn't believe we finally ran into someone else (her name is Karen) doing the run--yay!!!  Karen ran the past two editions and happily filled us in on race details.  She said there were only like 9 people the first year and maybe 20 or less the second year.  This year there are 129 entrants, 52 of which are female. Speaking with Karen was exciting and motivating!  We discussed our training on this particular day.  We shared that we were on a quest to accomplish 30 miles.  She said she was out for a "short" run.  I am pretty sure her definition of short is not typical because she mentioned that she just finished running the Florida Keys 100.  I think we all nearly dropped and I know my mouth hung open.  I stammered, "You just ran 100 miles?!?"  She casually went on about her struggles in the race but that she finished.  I just did a search for her results and she was the first female, 60-64 to finish--great job, Karen!  WOW!

We had to pull ourselves away or Karen would have kept us all day with her stories, but our quads, calves and hammies were locking up.  The incidental meet-up and mental break fueled our conversation for the next few miles.  We were almost back to the park when some guys on bikes yelled out, "Great pace girls."  I think we all laughed out loud since we felt like we were crawling.  Again an impromptu cheer made us smile and puff out our chests.  The guys asked how far we were going (I am telling you the packs give us street cred.)... when we said "30", one guy wobbled on his bike and nearly toppled over (dude--we feel ya)!  Good luck they cried and pedaled away.

Finally, we were back at the Cherry-aid station for some food, ice and Gatorade!  I took this opportunity to change clothes as my shorts and shirt were soaked--19 miles complete.  We did a loop around Walsingham Park which offered some shade and winding trails around the lake.

(north end of the park)

The loop was not as long as we hoped so we hit the car again--7 more miles!  This seemed like the never-ending run, but there was no stopping our little army!  Out the park and north we headed for this day's last excursion.  Dawn had a good stride and I fell into step behind her.  She said she caught a second wind.  I told her I was catching a second ride in the form of "drafting".  

From Wikipedia:

Drafting or slipstreaming is a technique where moving objects are caused to align in a close group reducing the overall effect of drag due to exploiting the lead object's slipstream.  Drafting is used to reduce wind resistance and is seen most commonly in bicycle racing, car racing, and speedskating, though drafting is occasionally used even in cross-country skiing, downhill skateboarding, and running. 

It was nice to let my head hang and just zone out for some miles.  At this point, we were all gutting it out.  Our conversation was quiet with just the sound of our feet hitting the pavement.  When we passed 26.2, Dawn energetically announced we had completed a marathon:)  I am pretty sure I mumbled something close to "yay".

With the passing of the next mile, D & C became official "ultra" runners.  Any distance longer than a marathon is considered an "ultra" race.  Typical ultra events include: 50Ks (32 miles), 50 miles, 100Ks (62 miles) and 100 milers.

We hit our final turnaround and could not move our legs fast enough--we were so ready to be DONE!  We continued to slug along when the two cyclists from before caught up to us right at the crest of the Ulmerton overpass. They were full of good cheer and offered us cold Gatorade--OMG--these guys were so nice!  Their generosity inspired us and gave our slow parade new life.  We kept our feet moving and saw the stoplight signaling  one mile to the park--it was like a vision of the "Pearly Gates"!  So, so close!

Cherry led our pack down the homestretch and we almost collapsed into the car--WE DID IT!

This run symbolized several milestones for the group, yet it was the simple altruism and camaraderie that punctuated the day!

Thank you fellow trail blazers!

To view our course:  30 mile map

3 Run Park Pass

Creative running... sometimes it is not easy to find a 5-6 hour time slot for a loooooooong run.  I know that sounds crazy but this is our last month of training for the Pinellas Trail Challenge 46 mile run.  We are not running for 5 pure hours, but it does take around that amount of time to cover 20 plus miles (which includes walking, bathroom breaks, nutrition and change of clothes stops:)  

Since May, my friends and I have been adding distance to our long runs each weekend.  According to my Garmin log, our first real distance run was 16 miles. From there we increased training runs to 17, 19, 22 and recently 25 miles. Next up, we have a 30 miler for this weekend--yipeeeeeee;)

To keep momentum for the big 3-0, I wanted to accomplish 25 or so miles this past weekend.  Small snag to this plan--Wendy's best friend, Kelly, was in town and of course we had to vacation with her;)  We had parasailing, kayaking, sunset cruising and so much more to do! 

 All photos courtesy of Kelly:)  Thank you for capturing our memories!

I prepped my wife that I planned to squeeze in a run when the opportunity presented itself.  Since a half a day was not possible, I formulated an alternate strategy--three 10 mile runs.  I have not had back-to-back-to-back long runs in forever.  Needless to say it was an adventure:)

Each run was extremely different with it's own set of challenges.  Following are my musings about this action-packed weekend!

Run#1: Clearwater Beach to Caladesi Island

Seriously, is there a better place to run than next to the ocean with the sound of waves and birds to keep you company?  

Wendy and Kelly set a parasailing appointment for 1pm and we were all off to the beach to chill until "go" time:0  I used this opportunity to set out for an 8 miler (no time for 10, take what you can get;) 

It was a Friday; I was off work; I was at the beach; and it was a gorgeous, sunny day.  Bring it on--my mind and body exclaimed!  

My shoes hit the sand and my brain went on vacation along with the rest of me.  I forgot my iPod, which was probably a blessing in disguise, so I tuned in to the sights and sounds around.  The water was choppy so not much chance for a dolphin sighting. Instead my focus was on the immense beach stretched out in front of me.  Usually the ocean is lapping at your feet and a game of "catch me if you can" ensues.  FYI-I always lose this game and my feet get wet!  

Today the beach was super-wide.  As Pier 60 and civilization faded into the background, I noticed my footprints were the only ones on the coast.  What a treat--to be the pioneer steps on the pristine landscape!  Feeling like an explorer put a spring in my step and pushed me forward in search of gold (or the 4 mile turnaround in this case;)

It was an amazing journey to move from the hustle and bustle of Clearwater Beach to undisturbed grounds and rustic lands, to the ferry landing and tourists to then see the Dunedin Causeway and Honeymoon Island appear like a mirage in the distance.  I had reached my destination--time to doubleback!  

I was not thinking the return trip would be too eventful... was I ever wrong!  At the ferry landing, I stopped to refill my water bottle and ended up taking a mini shower--the heat was on!  It felt great to cool down and recharge for the final 3 miles.  I said goodbye to the tourists and was getting lost in the sand and ocean when the wind shifted. Nothing much but it pulled my attention to the west and an ominous line of dark clouds.

Hmmmmmmmmmmm, was this storm headed my way?? Hard to tell, but as I looked south to Clearwater, the sun was still shining.  I secretly felt bad for the tourists who just offloaded as rain was imminent at the park!  

I was not too worried but did try to pick up my pace!  My Garmin beeped and I was just 2 miles from lunchtime:)  The clouds still seemed far away and I kept chugging along enjoying the drop in temperature.  

Every once in a while I would glance to the sea and think, I got this. Then lighting struck--literally.  My first thought was, there goes the parasailing excursion.   

Beep--1 more mile.  "I think I can, I think I can" was my mantra. 

Suddenly, rain came at me sideways, pelting my exposed skin (which was 90% of my body considering it was 85 degrees when I began this escapade).  My race against the storm was over and it seemed the heavens gloated on this fact--the rain grew stronger and seriously felt like hail--WTH mother nature;)  I thought I picked up my pace before; however, I was now in a sprint to save the universe from total annihilation.  At least that is how I felt as I ran past honeymooners, vacationers and locales all caught off guard by this insane monsoon!

The condo tower where we entered the beach loomed up ahead and I hoped Wendy and Kelly made it to the car sans rain!  I turned up the access road when I heard people yelling, "Jill, Jill." Huddled under the condo parking garage were Wendy, Kelly and a few other couples who joined in the shouting/cheering of my name!  Looks like we were all humbled by the stealthy storm.

Well, it appears my words have rambled on about Run #1.  Next blog, I will recap Runs 2 & 3 - not quite as animated as this one but still worth the read;)

Enjoy each and every moment, you never know when the winds will change!

Life on the Run

Wow, August 3rd already - July was a whirlwind of friends, travel and family!  I have not had much time to put my legs up, sit and type but I would not trade a single, busy moment:) Last month was full of adventure and enlightening activities.

Quick recap:

I was finally able to hike in the Adirondack Mountains.  I have been begging Mrs. Bartlett to take me to see some of the sights the great state of New York has to offer and she fulfilled my wishes.  We did an amazing (and surprisingly tough) 4 mile, round trip hike up Blue Mountain.

(view from the fire tower at Blue Mt. summit)

Who knew 2 miles would have me sucking air?!?  I checked Wiki and there is an elevation gain of 1,559 feet to the summit.  Hmmmmmmmmmm, let's see... the last time I ran in Florida there was an elevation gain of 124 feet (and that is only because the route included an overpass which us Floridians call "hills").  Enough said, ha! 

This hike wet my appetite for the outdoors.  I want more!  It was scary and slippery and exhausting and breathtaking and an accomplishment all wrapped up in half a day.

Looking to my guides (Grube & Wendy) for more adventures next New York trip!

We also visited Chittenango Falls State Park which has an incredible waterfall. A beautiful, serene place which seems the perfect spot for a picnic--next time;)

So if the hike didn't test our legs and lungs enough; Wendy's bestie, Kelly invited us to her Method 360 class.  Holy moly, workout on crack!!!  We lunged, ran, jumped, lifted, punched, balanced, pulled, pushed and sucked more air:)  Sweat was flying and we were smiling (I think) most of the time!  Nothing says friendship like a shared stream of perspiration.

What a great start to our day and awesome to see a friend as motivated as us about pushing the limits of the body and mind!

I want to return and do the whole NY trip over again!!!

I was sure to have post traumatic trip depression were it not for a visit from my one and only nephew, Alec.  Alec was flying and staying with us for the first time.  I was so excited and nervous at the same time!  I was like a kid on Christmas Eve.  I was eager for Alec to explore Clearwater yet nervous about 3 dogs overwhelming him, enough food in the house for a teenager, and just being lame.

My nerves were washed away when his smiling face met us at the airport and the conversation flowed.  Gone was the boy I see twice a year (if I am lucky). With us in the car was a recent high school grad.--a smart, funny, sensitive, caring, considerate young man!

The dogs loved our new house guest and he loved them right back.  On day 1, the 3-pack broke Alec in to a "dog's life" with an excursion to the dog park and a dip in the ocean. Alec's presence was definitely a catalyst this day as Sugar swam for the first time (so proud of my 'lil baby:)

The typical Florida sunshine played hide and seek during Alec's visit but his disposition was always positive, not one complaint!  Although the weather was precarious, we managed to squeeze in two kayak excursions over the course of the week.

Alec's smile on the water was contagious and reignited my passion for paddling!  

We were the only two people out on the water and it felt as if we were the only two people in the world.  The water was smooth and calm, ideal paddling conditions!

One of Alec's first questions off the plane was, "can we see dolphins?"  I told him one way or another (with a sure fire secret weapon--Winter at Clearwater Marine Aquarium).  I was hoping not to use the Winter card, but after an hour of paddling we had yet to see anything.  So, we stopped our paddles and drifted for a bit.  

Sure enough when we became quiet and tuned in to nature, the ocean responded. First, we saw the wings of some stingray pop up and swim around us.  This roused our spirits and stimulated a healthy stingray discussion.  We sat still awhile longer to see mullet jump and ospreys perched on nautical signs.  However, the dolphins remained enigmatic.  

Reluctantly, we began the return trip paddle.  Alec zipped back in the kayak with his double sided paddle while I took my time on the stand up board.  I love the feeling of looking out over the water--it is serene and empowering.  This was another day I did not want to end.  I sat back down on my board for one last tête-à-tête with the ocean.  Just as I was about to head inland a pod of dolphins welcomed Alec to Florida.  Perfecto!

I wished we could have been on the water every day, but work and rain kept us hustling.  Alec was a trooper and amiably engaged in some valuable job shadow opportunities with me and Wendy.  At this point in time, it is safe to say, Alec does not want either of our jobs--LOL;)

Alec kept me company on a run as my bike partner and also made it through one of Coach Putulin's bootcamp/boxing classes with me.   

I enjoyed sharing my active lifestyle with Alec and really appreciated his company.  He never blew me off for his phone, texting or video games.  He involved himself in the moment and participated in every crazy event we tackled!

I hate to sit still but doing so allows me to reflect on these wonderful memories.  I cannot believe this all just happened less than 30 days ago!  I already had trouble recalling some facts and feel grateful to relive the experience via writing.

So many more stories and friends and events that took place in NY (i.e. Darren's high school graduation-big shout out to D for his perseverance) and FL; and still much more to explore...

Stay hungry my friends!