September 14th

I hadn't planned on making an entry before my test on the 24th, but I have been very excited about the last two weeks. First, two weeks ago I completed the 12th leg of the hood to coast relay. My daughter Tory invited me to be on her team and I wasn't sure how my body would fair. But to my surprise and delight, I was able to run all three legs at the same pace and felt good at the end. The highlight of the run was being able to run the last two miles with Tory, although she had run three in a half legs already, she got out and ran the last two miles to seaside with me. Then yesterday I met my son Michael and his girlfriend Amber, my youngest daughter Tiffany with her husband Andy (and my wife of course) at Timberline lodge at 7:00 am. Then Michael, Tiff and I started the Timberline marathon, 26.2 miles for the uneducated. It consisted of running 23 miles on the Pacific Crest Trail with all of the rocks, roots, and hills...oh, what hills! I tripped and fell six times while Tiff tripped and fell three times. The scenery was gorgeous and it was one of the most beautiful runs I have ever participated in. The highlight of the run was, as well as the hood to coast, that I got to do an activity with my children. I was excited to see Tiff finish her first marathon, but I did ask her why she picked such a difficult one for her first. So today I am walking very gingerly. Now the next four weeks will be concentrating on getting ready for the Le Griz 50 miler in Montana. Hard to believe that eleven months ago I was only walking half a block with the use of a walking stick. I would not be at this point if it wasn't for all of my family and friends who have constantly given me support and encouragement. thanks again and I love you all.