After years of mother-daughter trips to the Camelback Inn and Spa in Scottsdale, Arizona, I finally decided to take Chris along so he could see what all the fuss is about. We had such a wonderful, relaxing vacation together getting massages, eating delicious food and drinking by the fire pits.

But, since we were vacationing in a state I haven’t yet run, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to fit in a 1/2 marathon. The Lost Dutchman 1/2 happened to be scheduled while we were in Arizona, so we rented a really huge SUV (only car available) and made our way to Apache Junction, Arizona. Another not huge, really well run race. Lots of parking with a really quick shuttle ride to the starting area. Packet pickup was fast and well organized. The first part of the race was quite beautiful, watching the sun rise over Superstition mountain.

Some of the middle miles were a little tougher mentally to get through since you could see the road going forever (at least it seemed that way while running). Lots of aid station and port-a potties and a fun finishers medal (it spins). Chris and I ran a nice, relaxed pace and then headed back to the Camelback for a post race brunch of avocado toast, fruit, french fries, beer and coffee.

14 down, 36 to go!