The Journey

As I reflect over the events of this year, one word comes to mind.  The word is unravel.  To unravel means to undo, disentangle and investigate. It means to clarify and solve.   Every once in a while, I have a year where all heck breaks out and this was one of those years.  You may have had one year like this as well. This year I struggled with depression.  This was abnormal for me, but nevertheless it was a real mental state I could not shake.  I struggled with depression and anxiety for months as I watched my 12 year relationship dissolve before my eyes. I felt powerless.  Depression is turning anger inward.  Instead of focusing my anger accordingly, I became angry at myself.  I am a fixer. I can make all things "right," so I thought but I could NOT fix my own marriage.   This was hard for a type A personality.  This is the most personal entry I have written and I debated whether I would publish it or not.  After thinking for several hours, I decided to post it. Why? 

On September 16, 2018,  I had the pleasure of running in the Rick's Run Ultra Challenge. This trail run course include a 5.22 mile trail loop in Greenbrier State Park in Maryland. The course was challenging with steep climbs, rocks, mud and stream crossings.  Here are a few photos. This trail run was named after a wonderful gentlemen who was apart of our local running club. He had a great passion for running and life. His infectious smile welcomed all. Although his earthly presence is no longer here, his spirit lives on in this race. You can read a little about Rick in a note written by his dear friend below. Why  did I choose to run such a difficult course some have asked me? Now that I'm showered and had dinner, I believe I can answer this question. My racing season has been derailed all year by health and personal setbacks, school and work commitments, and sporadic training due to the lack of time. No excuses just reality. I chose this race for