My third Ragnar Del Sol, like the Ragnars I've done before it, tested me, rewarded me and taught me more about running and myself. But let's start from the beginning ... Last Friday, Van 2 of the Crazy Cervezas team set off for our exchange. After two years of being in Van 1, I experienced what it's like to be the finishing van. It felt odd to not be waking up at 3 a.m. to leave for ... Read more
Camping Packing List
Graham and I like to be prepared when we camp. I've posted what we pack for Havasupai waterfalls before, but we take even more stuff when we camp anywhere that doesn't involve backpacking. Here's a list of what we bring in hopes it will inspire you to pack appropriately. Buddy Heater, if it's a cold location. Propane. If we can't bring our large camping stove, we'll throw in the canister ... Read more
Week 2 of Marathon Training
I've officially signed up for my first marathon! I'll be running the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon in Louisville in late April. Wish me luck!Sunday: I skipped running because I had a headache for most of the day. Instead I went for a 1.84-mile walk before sunset, when I started to feel better. I noticed a lot of trash left behind after last Saturday's parade; I spotted gloves, hats, water ... Read more
Ragnar Trail McDowell Mountain Recap: How the West Was Run
Howdy, y'all! I survived my first Ragnar Trail. I had my eye set on that Phoenix double medal for completing both Ragnar Del Sol and McDowell Mountain in one year when I signed up in June, but between then and now I have been consumed with wedding planning and post-wedding laziness. Thus, I wasn't adequately prepared. But that didn't stop me from having a fabulous time! Our team, How the West ... Read more
Monsoon Sunset
Waking up to the sound of raindrops on my window was a pleasant surprise on Tuesday. It was also a treat to see the downpour from my office building's windows that afternoon. The sun made an appearance for a few hours before sunset storms put on a show for us as we watched from Dreamy Draw Recreation Area.A rainbow was auspicious start to the hike.We could see the storm over the West Valley just ... Read more
Sunset hikes are my favorite
Recent monsoon storms have led to beautiful skies lately. Graham and I took our pups on a hike after a productive Sunday afternoon. We explored a different Dreamy Draw trail than our usual route — it was such a good idea!We rushed to the top of the hill to get an unobstructed view of the sunset. The payoff was this splendid view ...I was mesmerized by the clouds. We are so lucky to live in ... Read more
Dolly Steamboat Cruise on Canyon Lake
Part of our anniversary weekend was cruising Canyon Lake on the Dolly Steamboat. As an outdoors enthusiast, I was excited about the possibility of seeing some animals along the 6-mile ride. It's quite a hike out to Apache Junction — it took an hour to get the the marina from central Phoenix — but it's worth the trip to check out another one of our state's gorgeous lakes. You'll drive through ... Read more
Weekend Getaway: Camping near Flagstaff
After exploring the Bearizona drive-through park, Graham and I ventured to Flagstaff for some cool, fresh air. We returned to Forest Road 420, where we've camped before. We even took our Christmas card photos there a couple of years ago.We found a camping spot just off the road and set up the hammock. We decided not to pitch a tent this time. Graham put together a sort of truck tent by leaving ... Read more
Sunday Funday at Piestewa Peak
Summer's right around the corner, but you wouldn't know it you spent any time outside Sunday. Graham and I took advantage of the breezy, cool weather with a hike on Piestewa Peak at sunset. Get in your hikes while you can, folks! ... Read more
Camping at Knoll Lake, Mogollon Rim
Graham and I celebrated our first full weekend together in almost two months by going on a weekend camping trip. We set off toward Blue Ridge Reservoir, but we discovered it's closed until at least early April, so instead we kept driving until we hit Forest Road 95. Signs for the Arizona Trail make me want to hike at least parts of the 790-mile trail. Adding it to my travel list. Without ... Read more