Happy (almost) 4^th of July everybody!  The 4^th is my absolute favorite holiday for a variety of reasons, but mainly because it serves as a great excuse for guilt free grilling, beer drinking, and meat eating.  This is my first year not spending the holiday in Wisconsin with my family.  I must admit this has left me a little bummed, but I’m excited to see what a West Coast 4^th of July has to offer.  Of course I’ve gotta give a big shout out to all the troops and their families that continue to make our freedom possible.  I hope all of our fine servicemen get to spend some time with, or at least get to talk to, the ones they love on the most American of holidays.

Workouts have been going well; I’ve been running as much as I can in an effort to stay in some semblance of summer shape.  I’m not up to my pre-marathon mileage quite yet but I feel strong and healthy.

Happy 4^th everyone!  Stay healthy and safe!

-Derek