Random Thoughts

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.