I like to live by the rule: make sure that people and places are better “after” you encounter them. Much can be read into that but for now I am so happy to be with a well full of people who understand that sentiment. Because (deep breath) I’m an adult novice at this backpack + run thing and this is my first ultra run!  There, I said it again. As the one who usually has everyone coming to her for answers, I’ve learned that a great way for me to personally grow is to undertake not only new things, but extraordinary “beyond reach” kinds of things. That way the old “fake it til ya make it” philosophy will NOT suffice, most especially on a 150 Mile run/trek thru the forest!  So here I am. And an inch of personal growth gained by just admitting, out loud and not just in my head, that I could use some help from those who have run these races before. That brings me round to my opening statement and this wonderful group of Desert Runners. They have absolutely adopted me and already within a day my angst and my worry has dissipated as my pack is purged and my clips, bungees and buckles are put to good use. They are leaving me a better person already. Lynne, an Australian living in Hong Kong, shared with me an amazing few hours of tips and pointers to the point of me hauling my pack and gear to her room to put it together. Wow. It is amazing how a little help can be like a tidal wave of relief. 

I had the privilege of meeting the founder of Racing the Planet in the elevator. Mary is a smart lady and someone I liked immediately. Her sharing of course updates (note: 20 water crossings!) and pointers (keep yer shoes on!) with a little politics and words about home (she lives in Hong Kong but harks from Virginia) continued to add to the meeting of some really neat people with amazing stories. 

Had a good visit to town with Lynne for some final adjustments to my pack (thank you Lynne!) including the tossing of crocs for flip flops (you’ll like that upgrade Gabriella) and belts that are light and easy to use (Rob, thanks for the bungee cord recs. Looks like I am now in like flint!). Sleeping bag and pad now firmly affixed and I can most definitely start with confidence on Sunday. Walking about Bariloche was beautiful – a quaint ski town that is ripe in Spring weather (still can’t get use to the flip of seasons this side of the equator). A beautiful day which every competitor is praying to the weather gods to press repeat daily for the next 7…..