The Journey

 Today I was suppose to participate in the Peasantman Olympic Distance triathlon. For 10 weeks, I swam, cycled and ran.  Each day, I looked at my training plan and put in the work. Half way through the training, I participated in the Xterra trail 10k. My expectations were low because I knew the course would be tough. So I decided to run with my heart with no goal except to finish.  Unbeknownst to me, I placed 3rd in my age group.  With a high from this accomplishment, I continued to train fervently. Then......... Life got in the way....... My dear friend, only a few years my senior, died. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer on 6 months prior.  Here is the backstory. In early Oct., we planned lunch. I set a location but she refused to confirm. Without thinking much more about it, I got up for my typical Sunday morning run and planned to confirm our lunch plans upon after running.  When I returned from my run, I learned that lunch plans were cancelled.  When I inquired more a