But when the bells go quiet, the cake has been eaten (pecan frosting - yum!), and the last dance has played (Angel by Sarah McLachlan) it is something like the feeling you get when you run through the line at the end of an Olympic 5K. No, seriously! It's exactly what it feels like! You have been planning for this moment, training, visualizing it again and again, and then there you are with arms outstretched, taking a big breath and trying to memorize every little thing about it. When you cross that Olympic finish line you feel the exhaustion, relief, runner's high. Gosh, I love those feelings! Every bit of it.
But we kept marching on, and a week later we found ourselves in Adelaide, where Brittany will be assigned late this year. In the same way we were awed by Sydney's over-the-top sparkle and character, we were awed by Adelaide's down-to-earth living. We strolled to the Central Market each day to pick up ingredients for Ugali - fresh Kale and wild kangaroo meat (I know, they are so cute, but a man's gotta eat!). We toured the Adelaide Hill's nature reserves and wineries and connected with Aboriginal culture (Brittany picked up some new painting inspiration and I am working on my didgeridoo skills). Can't wait for the exciting new adventures Down Under during my off season!
But, before I get carried away dreaming about dingos and Tasmanian devils I'm BACK TO THE TRACK!! After a short but fun indoor season, outdoor starts on Friday at the Mt. SAC Invite. I am racing the 1500m at 6:39PM and can't wait to be out in the open air, running in the beautiful California sunshine with the Bowerman Track Club. Next up is Stanford Payton Jordan Invite on Saturday May 2nd. Time to light it up and set the stage on the way to IAAF World Championships in Beijing, China. Come cheer me on in California!!