After months of waiting, weeks of preparing and what felt like a pitiful few seconds in which to get everything packed – I’ve arrived.
My destination (the first checkpoint of many to come over the next few weeks) was Denver. Capital (if indeed they have capitals over this side of the Atlantic) of Colarado. A state which I have wanted to visit since I was just a little girl. Or – to be more precise – probably since around April last year when I got in to trail running and found out that some of the best trails in the world can be found here.
Unfortunately, this isn’t a running holiday. I haven’t just cruised over here to stick on some trainers and hit the hills.
Fortunately, I’ve come here for much bigger reasons. I’ve come here not just to witness history being made, but to play my own small part in making it happen.
I’ll be putting on a pair of boots (or more likely flip flops for the next few days at least), adorning a super sexy high vis (not because we have to but because I want to) and I will be diligently attending to the every need of Mimi as she continues to tear up this country (/kind of continent I’m not really sure) on nothing but her own pair of hoka topped legs.
As I left home this morning I was super nervous. I was arriving at the airport to meet a total stranger (well mostly total) and then fly half way across the world with him to meet with a whole group of strangers.
Now I know what you’re thinking, it’s more like a quarter, perhaps a third at most, but that is clearly lacking in hyperbolic effect so I went with half.
You may also have been thinking stop moaning and get on with it – which would also be acceptable. But we all have different fears – and meeting new people just happens to be one of mine.
Bottom line – I met Tim (HWMBO for anyone in the loop) – we checked in, had one last luxurious meal and then boarded the plane for 9 hours and 20 minutes of overly cramped yet not hugely unpleasant seatage. Which is a word I’m sure.
FINALLY, after what felt like FOREVER (more hyperbole – nice right) we arrived in Denver. A little bleary eyed and slightly regretting the copious amount of wine I was forced to drink (offered) on the plane.
My first view of Colarado was simply stunning – a sinking sun settling behind a wall of jagged mountains under a pale blue sky. Unfortunately I was so preoccupied with racing through customs that I didn’t get a photo. It was good though. Trust me.
Security done. Taxi found. Hotel checked in to. Dinner eaten. I am now more than ready to curl up and get some sleep.
So goodnight y’all (nailed it).
