Tuesday, May 15, 2007

89 Toyota


It keeps on running! During a routine oil change this weekend, I noticed oil on the top of the engine. Not a good sign. After consulting with the helpful guy at Shucks, I bought a valve gasket kit, and got to work. I'm not too handy with automotive repairs, and started with a fair amount of trepidation. Would my car ever run again? After several hours, everything was back together and I turned the key. The trusty old Toyota rumbled (well, maybe that is too strong) to life. It still runs, and now I know how to remove the valve cover and replace seals. An overall easy job!

Bloomsday 07

Bloomsday in Spokane has been a goal since I ran in high school. This year, with the support of my wonderful wife, I was able to compete in a field of over 40,000 others! It was truly a remarkable experience. At the starting line, crowds stretch back for over 6 blocks! When I finally started, the rush and camaraderie of the moment was almost overwhelming. The first few miles were easy, and my pace picked up speed as the crowd thinned out. During the race "Doomsday Hill" kept creeping into my mind. I'd seen photos of the 0.7 mile hill and knew it would be tough. As I crossed the Spokane river and began my ascent, my goal was to run the entire length. I just put my head down, pumped my arms, and did it. I passed the "vulture" and many other runners (read, walkers) going up. When I reached the top there was a cheering crowd and an unbelievable feeling of accomplishment. The final two miles were cake, and the final turn and run to the finish was exhilarating. I finished in 1:04:59. My goal was to be under 1:15, and I did that easily with energy left over. I walked with my crowd to get the coveted finisher's T-Shirt. I'll be back next year, and be under 60 minutes. Next on the running agenda - Sound to Narrows - another 12K, but more hilly.