Life on the Runn...

This past weekend (and until Tuesday thanks to a snowstorm that grounded flights yesterday), Brian and I were in Colorado.  We made the trek west so Brian could cover the ABS National Competition in Colorado Springs.  He, along with a few of his pals -- Pete and Jon and Jordan from Louder Than 11 -- covered the entire comp, from qualifiers on Friday to finals on Saturday night.  The whole weekend was an awesome experience for me on many levels.  As a climber who strives to get stronger, watching really great climbers is always inspiring to me; as a wife, watching Brian try something challenging and new (and continue to make a name for himself) and do so quite well is equally inspiring. I know a number of you tuned in to listen to Brian during the comp, and I know many of you who did aren't climbers yourself, so I especially appreciate your doing so. While he will not give himself nearly enough credit for what he accomplished this past weekend, both personally and professionally

While early in our married-people history, trips were exclusively focused on climbing, my persistent suggestions that we lead a more balanced life were finally heeded.  With our recent trip to Turkey, for instance, we were both climbers and traditional tourists.  Regardless, let me give you all a glimpse into the climbing side of our vacay. We spent the first half of our trip in Asian Turkey.  We stayed in Kaleici, the old town district of Antalya, and from there we  made our daily trips to Geyikbayiri, southern Turkey's most well-known climbing area.  The drive took a bit of getting used to - you'll recall my post about driving in Turkey - but we were glad to have chosen the 'rental car/commute to climbing' path as it allowed us the freedom to do a lot more exploring in Antalya proper.  While the climbing area wasn't nearly as clean as we have come to expect in the States, the climbing was fantastically different from anything I had previously experienced.  The a

While I have to admit that I have never been a big Valentine's Day person -- aside from the candy hearts -- (I maintain that we should spread the love all year round), I do want to wish a very happy day-of-hearts to those I love, and particularly my adventure buddy, BR. From the ridges of the Highline Trail, to the canals in Venice, to the bourbon trails of Kentucky, to the mountains of Geyikbayiri, to the top of Cathedral Peak and back -- I LOVE YOU! Have a magnificent day!! 

Though I have to make it through...gasp....three more days, I'm very excited to be making the trek north to Eagle River this weekend.  Provided the weather cooperates, we plan to enjoy as much of the outdoor activities the north woods offers -- snowmobiling, snowshoeing, drinking wine, etc. I'm very excited to see my Grandparents Unti as well.  It's been too long (I was the bad child who missed Christmas, after all), and it will be great to spend some time with my parents and my brother as well.  Pictures of our weekend excursion surely be posted soon. Have a great week, all! our home away from home in Eagle River gotta love the north woods of WI

Today Grandpa Moe was reunited with his bride.  Grandma fought her illness bravely and surely showed us how strong she was.  And while we will miss her greatly, I know that Grandma is happy to be by Grandpa's side once more.  And every time Brian calls me his bride, it is this image and this couple I will think of. May you rest in peace, Grandma Moe.