Last week I had an AMAZING opportunity to be a mentor for the Knights of Heroes (KOH) summer camp, which is designed to empower boys and girls who have lost their fathers in military service. Through a multitude of outdoor adventures the campers find and exemplify determination, bravery, leadership, and perseverance. Moreover, the campers were challenged to work in teams, to encourage one another, and to be deliberate with their words and actions. The KOH campers and mentors raged in the Colorado mountains and rivers with activities such as horseback riding, camping, tubing, rafting, shooting, climbing, and a high ropes course. Simultaneously, we concentrated on de-stressing (no cell phones allowed), inward reflection, releasing emotions and bonding via a shared community. Every day started with a prayer and an intention, such as being kind, patient, humble, etc. Every night was spent journaling, sharing, and discussing how the days’ intention was achieved.

It was such a neat and beautiful experience to be surrounded by bright and brave women, ages 11 and up!  Although I was able to only get a few short training runs in the Florissant Fossil Bed area (a sweet find near camp), my body experienced novel soreness through the physical demands of the week, which included mountain biking and swinging a pulaski and using a macleod during our trail building service project.  The cross-training aspect of the week allowed me to recover from my most recent race, Summer Round –Up 12K, and from the high mileage that I was keeping prior to the race.  Most importantly, the week allowed me: clear my mind, rid of worries that don’t serve me, refocus my priorities, and to spend more time in prayer and in seeking guidance from God. I also was reminded of how fun it is to try new activities and to push past fears.  I also witnessed the power of encouragement, and how necessary it is to continue to strengthen those around me, even when it’s adult to adult!

Now it’s back to the “real-world” with commitments, deadlines, and “busy-ness.” Despite returning to a boat-load of emails and professional fires to calm, I feel refueled and ready to tackle the endless to-do list. Similarly, time to return to training!!! My body and mind feel so much better after this break and I’m eager to log more miles above tree-line, and eat and rest better. 

It’s crazy that the Pikes Peak Marathon is only 1 month away!!!!