I Ran an Ultramarathon (and I liked it)

This October I accomplished a goal that wasn’t even on my radar at the beginning of this summer (a prime example of why I don’t make bucket lists).  I ran 37 miles, climbing and descending 10,000 vertical feet to complete my first Ultramarathon, and my third ever trail race.  It took me 8 hours and 45 minutes, and I managed to sneak into the top 10 (7th place!) for women.  Perhaps the craziest part of all though, is that I crossed the finish line with a pep in my step and a smile on my face.  The pep didn’t take long to turn into a hobble, but my smile remained intact.  Why and how did I go from casual runs on the pavement to a trail ultramarathon?  I’m glad you asked. Continue reading “I Ran an Ultramarathon (and I liked it)”

4-day “fastpack” on the Tour du Mont Blanc

I still remember the first time I read about the Tour du Mont Blanc or TMB for short.  Inspired by our first through hiking adventure on the Inca Trail, I was down a rabbit hole, reading about other epic multi-day hikes.  Along with the “W” in Chilean Patagonia, the TMB shot right to the top of my list of day dream worthy destinations.  I knew we had to do it someday, but, given that it’s recommended as an 11 day hike, it would have to wait until we could dedicate an entire 2-week vacation to it.  Or so I thought… Continue reading “4-day “fastpack” on the Tour du Mont Blanc”

From the Andes to the Alps: Embracing Our Next Adventure

At our wedding, just over 2 years ago, we had guests sign a copy of “Oh,The Places You’ll Go!” by Dr. Seuss, in lieu of a traditional guest book.  At that time we had been discussing the possibility of an international move, but had no idea where we would be living in 6 months time. We never could have anticipated that in 2 short years, we would be preparing for our second inter-continental move. Yet, here we are. Continue reading “From the Andes to the Alps: Embracing Our Next Adventure”