Hope

Last week I participated in an 8 k race near the hospital that was more like a Sahara Slog or a game of capture the camel. We went over a number of sand dunes in 85 degree heat with water only in the mind. One of the toughest 8 k races I have ever done. I took it very slow and even with that I was a bit dizzy at the end. Thought I saw some camels on the course but I think they were just large dogs. Today we had a softball tournement which bought many local townsfolk. The field is dirt and sand which makes for some tough ground balls. There was also the obligate wind storm today which forced the umpire to delay the game many times until the dust died down. I felt sorry for the outfielders as the wind also made high fly balls a challenge.a The great thing for me was seeing all the people being physically active and having a good time. With all the health problems here due to obesity and diabetes there is also a group who keep active and healthy. I get a skewed view of world working at the hospital and am happy to know the local scene is not all made up of poor health habits. I am hopeful we can turn things around here as well as the rest of the country although it will take work. Next week I go back to the canyon for a Tuesday evening run sponsored by the Park Service. Should be fun.