I've posted the Chuckanut 50 k article on the race updates page, this is also the article that will appear in the next Ultrarunning Magazine issue. Written on the North Shore beach of Oahu, this RD planned her recovery long before the race even took place. While in Tanzania last October I met a super fun couple that offered up their place as a visit. I warned Steve & Kate on the spot that I am the type of person that will take someone up on an offer like that and once again I did. I got to enjoy a couple of days with my family in Washington amidst wrapping up final race details with Heather & Ma. Then, using miles to make the jump across the pond, I landed in Honolulu on Wednesday afternoon.
Upon arrival, I was promptly lei'ed and whisked out to Hali'ewa and their sailboat for our first activity, a whale tour under sail. It was a sunny afternoon and the whales did not disappoint. After several spottings we were treated to a baby showing off; constant breaches and rolls above the surf just 100m off the port side. It was a beautiful sight. The long weekend was filled with good miles, good eats, some downtime on the beach and early nights to bed to catch up on lost sleep. The adventures kept each day exciting including learning to fly an Ultra-Lite with Paradise Air, jet-skiing, farmers market, visits with HURT friends and exploring the north shore trails.
Always good to plan the recovery, time for reflection & downtime as much as the event, training and prep. It is easy to jump right into the next thing (the story of 2012 for me) and not take the time to create the memories and stories of the accomplishment. On my way to the airport the morning of my departure I took part in the tradition of spreading the flowers of my lei in the ocean (careful to remove the bow and string) signifying my return not only to Hawaii but to this place of reflection.
