South Umpqua River - not a race report - reflections

I'm sitting by the S. Umpqua river on a warm summer evening. On FB we post a lot about the good things in our lives. But our lives are not all what we post.

Recently one of my nephews died from a battle with leukemia. He was an amazing young man and it sucks that he was taken away from his family and his calling as a pediatric nurse.

Personally, I've struggled with what the future holds. An aging mom that i don't want to lose.  Siblings struggling with their health. My own daily challenges but nothing that raises to the levels others are facing.

It's a contemplative evening. I recently volunteered at an Ironman event that raised my spirits. I'll be in Eugene volunteering for the World T&F championships and will witness inspiring competitions. I'm blessed.

My personal challenges are minimal compared to what other may be going through. 

My thoughts tonight as I sit by this river ones that want to support you in whatever challenges you face, in whatever manner I can. 

Like a marathon, life is a challenge. With support both are easier to successfully complete.

But I struggle with what I'm leaving for my kids and grandkids. I don't believe my generation is going to leave this place better than we found it. This isn't a political statement but a reality. Prove to me otherwise.

What brings me joy and hope is that we have raised children who are resilient. Who will curse us but hopefully forgive us. They will be better stewards than us.

Sitting by the S. Umpuqa river on a warm summer, though it may not seem like it, I am hopeful. I have children who pursue the common good rather than the maximizing personal gain. I have a granddaughter who has unruly hair and finds joy in most anything. I have a grandson who laughs the infectious laugh of a baby. I am blessed.

July: Corbett FD Informal Station to Station 5kish

 Jasmine organized a run from her fire station in Springdale to the fire station in Corbett partially along the parade route. I, not able to follow directions, made it a run along the entire parade route. 

Wonderful rolling hills course that has potential to be a real 5k race course. 

June: Butterfuly Run

 This was a very low key and fun race. Mostly because I camped along the Umpqua River for the weekend. The Butterfly 5k was part of the Butterfly Festival in Elkton, OR. I say low key because you could start the race anytime between 9 and 11 am. There was not timing system, just "go" and start your watch. 

The course was great. Hilly and along the river. No PR on this one but a solid effort and enjoyable time. The festival was intimate. I found a wonderful spicy olive oil from an Oregon olive farm and toured Elkton's three local wineries.