Monday, Monday

It's the most awkward moment of the ceremony, and I've experienced more times that I can recall. The kiss. The kiss that seals the deal. I set it up, of course. (Man) and (Woman) have consented to be married, and have witnessed the same before God and this group, and have pledged their faith and love to each other, by the authority given me, I pronounce them husband and wife. (Man) you may kiss your bride. Some of the kisses are short and sweet. These are the best for all involved. Then others are long and maybe even multiple. Awkward. This couple did a great job on Saturday. They were a delight to work with, so I wasn't surprised.

So how are you? It's going to be a nice week ahead. Cool mornings. Nice days. I like it. This week is going to be busy in a different sort of way, but I think I'm ready.

Last Friday morning I got an 18 mile run in, and it went pretty well. It's harder running by yourself than running in a group, but that's the way it goes sometimes. I was pretty happy with my performance overall. It was cool but pretty humid.

After the run, I rushed around and got ready for my trip to (near) Nashville. While I was making my way down there I got a phone call from UNKNOWN. I have had enough of these to know that it is usually an international call. It's usually Marc Tindall from Honduras, but he's in the US right now. This could mean only one thing: Rebecca was calling from Costa Rica! Sure enough, it was Rebecca Skyping my cell phone. We had a very nice 20 minute conversation. She is doing really well.

I made my way to Gallatin, TN, got checked in, read and rested a little bit, and then it was time for Ike and Emily's rehearsal at the historic Cragfont Mansion, which is a little beyond next to nowhere. Since it's located there, everyone was late for rehearsal, which was fine. It was a beautiful evening. After the rehearsal, we went to a steakhouse. I got a rib eye, my favorite. It was good. Nothing satisfies like beef. That's what the beef association says. I think they are onto something.

While the dinner was going on, I was in constant contact with Kedra and Maddie. They were watching Ben play football. He had a good game, and Mitchell got a really good win. I hated missing it, but that's the way it goes sometimes.

After a good night's sleep I got up and ran a few miles and then got ready to meet Earl Lavender for breakfast. We had a really nice couple of hours together. Earl is one of the brightest, wisest people I know. He has been a friend and mentor for decades and helps me in so many ways. I always leave him encouraged. Saturday was no exception.

Back to the hotel for a little work... Then it was time to meet Luke, my son, for lunch. He chose Top Hog BBQ, a local highly rated establishment. Good choice. We had a really nice visit. I love him so much and am so proud of him. He's doing really well in his new job and seems very happy.

Next up: wedding. All that went well. It was perfect weather and a beautiful location. I apologized for leaving a little early, but I had to work the next day, Sunday. I changed my clothes and was off. I didn't stop and arrived back home a little after 10 p.m. It was great to be back home again.

Yesterday was about as normal as a Sunday gets, so that sets me up for this week. I have a writing project deadline, 45 miles to run, Marc Tindall is coming, and a bunch of other good things. Hmm, I think I better get started on something. Bye.