It seems fitting for running a business that just last weekend I ran a half marathon with my son, the capstone of his PE class. Sensible Insurance PNW will continue my insurance labors for a long, long time and running a half-marathon feels like it can take (well for some of us!) a long, long time. Because COVID has cancelled most official runs, I made up our own. Three thoughts.

First, this area is a wonderful place to live. What’s amazing is that nearly the entire run took place on the area’s trail system. Beginning near Aloha high, we traversed Beaverton, Bethany, Tanasbourne, Rock Creek and Hillsboro. Admittedly, the urban paths are not the wondrous hikes of Forest Park.

Even still, as the weather cools and the rain sogs the ground, these asphalted paths are especially nice. And the wide open green space does increase your odds of catching that ray of sun. Plus, there are forests along the way such as Tualatin Hills Nature Park (my favorite is the cedar section). Finally, they are near home in that local sort of way.

Second, life is like a run (with a box of chocolates?). Some miles feel great. Some are unexpectedly difficult. Sometimes you hit that irritating stop. Sometimes you have to pause to get your bearings. It’s good to encourage one another forward to the goal over the varying terrain of this life. 

Third, forgive a bit of gush (no charge!); it was fun training and running with my son. I can’t believe he’s 16. It’s such a privilege to watch him mature.