I went running yesterday. I mean really running. The first time since the Bear that I have actually wanted to be out there running hard. Yes, I've done some miles over the last 4 weeks, but if I got tired, I stopped and walked. I'd lolly-gag when I wanted to. Today, I pushed. I wasn't planning on it, but I did. Boy did it feel good to fly down those trails! I wanted to run today, but the cold wet rain left me a bit lacking in motivation. I know that I should train in conditions that I'm likely to run in, but I don't normally do that. I'm a wimp that way.
One year ago yesterday, I celebrated my last day on active duty. 22 year, 5 months, and 19 days prior I was commissioned in the USAF. There I was, ready to start again. I had a job lined up (sort-of...consulting has nothing guaranteed). I had two big races on the books for 2017, Georgia Death Race and the Bear 100. My A races. Wow, neither disappointed. Tough and challenging and never to be forgotten. And lessons learned.
I started my first year of retirement with those two running challenges. The rest would fill in as needed. I had a three daily goals that Mark insisted I do: something physical, something fun, and something productive. I tried hard to do those daily since starting terminal leave. (It was easy when golf season was in full swing, as it covered two of the three)
I didn't start working till mid-March. A job that fit my desires perfectly. I can work to my schedule, but am still using the skills the AF taught me. And, even better, I don't have to deal with some of the bs that I still see the AF making everyone do. I was asked the other day if it bothered me to not be in charge. No, it doesn't it. I kinda like making recommendations and not the decisions. If they take it, great, if not... no lost sleep on my part.
I volunteer at the Metro Parks when I can. Clearing invasive species of plants, building trails, monitoring the trails and even planting trees.
And I can run or play golf as I desire. Unfortunately, my golf game these last few years has been less than great. But I still love to be out there swinging a club. We had some great rounds over the last year. Mark takes me to exotic locations, like Kansas!
As for running, well...Since retiring last year I have had a blast running. I ran 5 ultra-marathons. I volunteered at 2 and co-directed another. I ran a great night 50k with one of my mentors in this crazy sport. It was had to be 90 deg F when we started, with 90% humidity. She kicked my ass...
I spent a week camping (and sleeping in a tent) while training on the Bear course. That same week, I ran a 50k that hit 10k elevation 4 times . I smiled every step of the way. I met some great folks that would help me through the Bear.
I beat my goal times at both GDR and Bear.
Wow! I can only hope the next year lives up to this one. I've got some plans and goals and dreams. Now to see how they play out.
Let the scheming begin.
