Capitol Reef National Park

Our three-day camping trip in Capitol Reef:

We set up camp in the neighboring Dixie National Forest. Somehow we lucked out, and were the only two people in the entire campground!

Hiking out to Cassidy Arch

We braved the height, and climbed out onto the arch. The little speck in the photo is me. It was a LONG way down!

Troy with the Pyramid in the background

Entering the slot canyon

This canyon was really tight. During this section, our feet didn't even touch the ground!

Troy enjoying the shade of Hickman Bridge

Hickman Bridge

This trip really made me excited for our upcoming adventures, including our anniversary backpacking trip and our 10-day camping trip in Range Creek! 

26th Birthday

"What do you want to do for your birthday?" Why does Troy even bother to ask? For my last four birthdays I've said the same thing: go camping. Since my birthday fell on a Friday this year, we celebrating Thursday evening as to not take any time away from our weekend camping trip. So here's the tale of my birthday eve:

I came to from the gym to find the house had been set to birthday mode. Balloons and banners everywhere!

All dressed up for our dinner at The Mustang on Park City's Main street.

Blowing out the candles on my birthday cupcakes. I wanted to do minimal damage on the waistline. ;)

For a week or two before my big day, I kept dropping some less than subtle hints that by the time my birthday rolled around, my boxing pass would be used up. Troy obviously picked up the hints. He created a boxer scavenger hunt. Each clue had a quote or reference to that particular boxer leading me a step closer to my gift. It was adorable! And I got that renewed pass I was hoping for. :)

Thanks to everyone for all the birthday calls, texts, emails and posts! It was a fabulous day!

Good News From Stott

Before I share my good news, let me give a little background. Almost two years ago, I certified in basic/intermediate mat Pilates. Since then, I have completed all my courses, finished all my hours, and was finally feeling confident enough to go for the full certification. But with Stott Pilates, the tests are cumulative. So even though I was already partially certified in mat work, I had to retake my basic/intermediate mat exam when I took my full test. Today I received the news that I passed my test! I am now certified in basic/intermediate/advanced mat as well as basic/intermediate/advanced reformer. That now makes three resolutions I've completed this year. Only seven more goals to go, and they're all within sight! :)

Provo City Half Marathon Results

I did something out of the ordinary: I picked a course with no downhill. The Provo course is mostly flat with about 90 feet gain. Mentally, I was having a hard time keeping positive. It was one of those mornings when your mind wants to through a tantrum. But I was able to eventually shake the bad thoughts, and finish in 2:27. Yay! I'm feeling better about my hill running, and I'm excited to tackle my next full marathon in less than a month!