3/5/2011

Today’s run was split into two parts. In the morning I ran from the mountains into the town. It was ten miles and it was quick. It was also necessary because our laundry has been piling up. We wandered into a restaurant called Eddies on Whiskey Row. They serve sandwiches and pizza but it was the bread bowl that caught my eyes. I had a broccoli cheese soup and one of my mom’s french bread pizzas. I devoured the tasty lunch and headed directly to the laundromat. The laundry took two hours to finish and it drained me of all my energy. A thirty minute nap was necessary to recharge the batteries. I woke up and decided to get eight more miles out of the way. It was a quick run and I was happy call it the day. We headed back to Hotel Vendome to rest. Tomorrow more mountains!!

3/4/2011

On this day, JC celebrates his birthday. My mom needed to take it easy today because the high elevation and winding roads made her feel a bit nauseated. Lucky for her, the Hotel Vendome in Prescott, Arizona has agreed to sponsor us for several evenings. The hotel has cool architecture and a cozy feel. They gave us connecting rooms so everyone finally has their own bed. The bedding is very warm and it helped me fall right to sleep. One thing I really love is the old school bath tubs. They are so relaxing. The owner, Eric is super nice and very helpful. He has volunteered to help find a school where I can speak to the kids. Each step of this journey someone kind appears when necessary.

I’m feeling great because I’m once again running free and running strong...

3/3/2011

I began the day in the Arizona desert with my mom, JC, and Bob the gnome. We ran eleven miles before I took a break at the base of a winding mountain road. I just wanted to massage my calves and mentally prepare for a climb. I checked my shins and realized I hadn’t given them a thought from the moment I woke up. I then set my sights on conquering the mountain. Ripping through the mountains was nothing short of breathtaking. There was no pain on this run, just the pleasure of beauty surround me. I think the view carried me on this day. The wind seemed to help push me along as well. Despite a late start and the fact that I left a box of chips, rice, and beans on the top of the car, it seemed like the universe was on my side today. Once again the scenery began to change...