The 2016 Twilight 5-K

It has been two weeks since we returned to Highlands, and I have been working on this blog ever since, going through the notes I took in my journal, and also taking care of all of the chores that have accumulated over 30 days - an overgrown yard and garden, new drapery rod for the sunroom (that suddenly collapsed in my hands when I went to open them last week), and all of the bills and mail that have accumulated.  You know how it is if you have traveled for some time:  returning is sometimes difficult!  But we have been rewarded by the memories we have, and updating this blog reminds me what a wonderful journey we had.  So many people have followed our journey on Facebook over the past month, and now perhaps some of them will read this blog.  My friend Christy told me at the race last night, "I want to come with you next time!"

Running - since that is what this blog (ostensibly) is all about - has also been difficult.  I fared pretty well from the long drive, because in reality Mini Coopers are designed for motoring and they are comfortable cars.  But I am terribly out of shape!  Over the past 30 days I managed to run only 14 miles, although admittedly they were runs so memorable that I will never forget them.  Last week I managed to get in 13 miles, and this week 15 miles, including the Twilight 5-K last night for which I was totally unprepared but was not about to miss.  (Martha had better judgement!)

This race has become a big one, and it is well-organized by Race Director Derek Taylor and the Rotary Club of Highlands.  The new timing system went well, and participation was up from last year despite the rain that, as expected, waited all day and then obligingly began to come down in cool, silvery curtains midway through the race.  I was surprised and gratified to win a second place award in my age group!  (Beaten out of first place by Mayor Pat Taylor).

But this means I have to do some real work, and experience some suffering, if I am going to get back in reasonably good condition again.  So be patient with me, fellow runners, as I struggle over the next few weeks, and as my speed and distance gradually improve.  Because I have faith that it will.

The next big challenge will be running the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop in four weeks.  And perhaps there will be a race or two before then?  Who knows? 

"Crossing the starting line may be an act of courage, 

but crossing the finish line is an act of faith."

– John Bingham