My favorite flower has always been roses. After our annual staff retreat, Denise and I took off into Tyler to see their rose garden. Apparently, this town hosts an annual rose festival. We weren't sure what to expect, but when we drove up the grounds were spectacular. The gardens were quiet, cool and peaceful. Cool air with the sun shining brightly on the petals.
Last weekend, we drove 6 hours across northwest Texas to Palo Duro Canyon. Jack and I signed up for their annual trail run. They sponsor three different runs: 50 miler, 50k and 20k. We chose the 20k. Our friends, Dan and Karen, went with us. We drove down into the canyon about 7 a.m. - pitch black and 48 degrees out. However, by the time we hit the trail, the light was peaking over the top of the canyon. The dark outline of the canyon rim rose and fell on the horizon. The trail run was challenging, but not ridiculous. As I was running, the scenery took my breath away. When I came around the last curve and saw the finishing line, my eyes welled up with tears. After over two hours of running, my body was on its own. I cruised on in with Christopher waiting for me. While I had spent the last four months training, I just wanted to finish the race. My goal was accomplished and it felt good...
Here are a few photos from a camping trip we took there a couple of years ago. When I get the race photos from Karen, I'll add them in as well.
