Apparently I only write coffee posts when I’m in Michigan. I guess my body is hard wired to wake up early, but the college kid has no interest in an early wakeup call. I’d run, but it’s raining and I did not bring the right running clothes, so here I sit. I’m joining Deb and Coco for another coffee kick off. I’m actually hoping to join one or both for in person coffee soon now that outdoor weather is returning to the area.
If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I had the most AMAZING experience volunteering at the Boston Marathon. I’ve known for a long time that I will never qualify to run, so I set my sights on getting a chance to volunteer. It was everything I hoped for and more, from running into Brian Beckstead (one of the Altra founders) at the expo, to having an elite take a gel from my hand (swoon), to seeing so many friends on the course, to getting a chance to be near the finish line for a while. All of it was amazing. I hope to go again, but even if I don’t, it was definitely a bucket list check off!
If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I raced a half marathon last weekend. I have discovered there’s a big difference between racing a half and running a half – it took me DAYS to walk normally again. It was a confidence builder though – I held my 10k pace for 9.5 miles! (Then I completely blew up and the last 3 sucked, but I was thrilled to see how long I could hold that pace.) Half marathon #86 done!
If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I raced in a new pair of the Altra Vanish Carbon shoes. O.M.G. They were amazing! Cushy, but lightweight and responsive. Maybe that’s why I was faster… (As a member of the Altra Red Team, I often get perks like discounted shoes, but I bought these full price at the Boston Marathon because I couldn’t resist.)
If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I’m in Michigan because I’m moving the kid from school to an internship for the summer. Jones will be working on an island all summer caring for bugs. I’m pretty sure that’s every entomologists dream job.
If we were having coffee, I’d tell you that I’m loving my job with Pacers Running. Most of my work is online (I handle all of their registrations and I manage some of our client races), but last weekend the PNC Parkway race returned as a normal point to point for the first time since 2020. Not only did I get to spend my weekend working, but Shoo got to work as well and Beer Geek ran the 10 miler. Hard to believe that when I started this blog, Shoo was just a little guy and Beer Geek wasn’t a runner…
PIcture of the elusive teen… (PC: SwimBikeRun Photo)
How has your spring been? I’m looking forward to a summer of travel, home improvement (I really need to hang some medals, but I need to fix and paint the wall first LOL), and some downtime after a crazy school year. Up next, Marine Corps Historic Half and then racing is quiet until fall.
I was bummed to miss you at the GW it is now one of my favorite races! I got a nice new PR and I will be coming back again next year. Glad you are enjoying your new job. I bet volunteering at Boston is a blast! thanks for linking up for coffee
I am glad to hear that you RACED a half! I actually just raced a half too and was in pain for most of the week after. Probably because it was downhill, lol!
That really does sound like an amazing time at Boston. I’ll also probably never qualify (although I haven’t completely given up hope.). Great way to be part of the experience.
Your son’s summer job sounds interesting! So he’s studying to be an entomologist? I would ask how he got interested in that, but then again that would be every little kids’ dream job- he probably developed a passion really young and never outgrew it. Enjoy your time in Michigan!
I’m envious of your time in Michigan! We haven’t been back for a long time ;-( Your son’s internship sounds like a great opportunity for him, though I can’t say I’m jealous, LOL
Isn’t volunteering at Boston great? I’ve been a volunteer for the past 7 years and it’s always a great experience! Wish I had known you were coming to Boston.
What a wonderful experience volunteering at the Boston Marathon! Next year I would love to go to spectate. I know I will never qualify or it might take me a LONG time to do so.