Powering up

Forgive me. It's been over 3 months since my last blog entry.

I had meant to keep up with blogging while I was away on the roadtrip this summer, but I just had no time or inclination to write while I was on the road. I took a lot of photos and did some regular Facebook updating to stay in touch with folks who wanted to see where I was, but dropped the blog altogether. It was really more about the experience. The life-affirming experience that made me appreciate the wonders of the rest of the U.S. after hitting 18 national parks, and also appreciate that I live in the greatest city. And I belong here.

So, the questions I got upon my return were the direct "what was your favorite part?" and the indirect "sooo....how was it?" (translation, "are you and D still together?") The answer is yes, D and I are going strong. As for favorites, I have a hard time with any sort of favorite list, but I do know I want to return to Utah/Arizona and hike down into the canyons.

One of my "favorites." Arches National Park, Utah.

Inspiration Point @ Bryce Canyon NP, Utah.

So, I'm back in BK. Back training. I was scared for a while this summer that I wouldn't be able to get my training in order for the NYC Marathon in November, but I am up and at it. I have my first 20 miler planned for this Sunday and we are less than 2 months away from the race.

This is the longest I've ever planned ahead in my life. I can't believe that I was training over 2 years ago for my first marathon. I feel like this is the longest goal-setting I've ever had. In 2008, I made the decision to run the 2010 NYC Marathon by qualifying in 2009. And, that is actually what's happening.