THE GETAWAY

    For the past few months, Jenn and I had been dealing with a seemingly endless stream of unkind realities. So, as the new year began, we decided we needed a little bit of an escape. Find someplace where we could be alone together. Away from the noise, the pressures, and the constant reminder that we were being driven apart. So, when Jenn found a trail race, through a National Park, on an island, in the Caribbean, I immediately agreed that this would be our next great adventure!

THE OFFER

    After returning home from my trip, I started working through the impending departure with my friends. Most of whom still had no idea that Jenn and I were together. That double whammy hit hard, especially for me. Every single time I had to say the words out loud. Yes, I’m with Jenn. Yes, we’re in love. Yes, I have to leave her behind. Many of these conversations ended with me in, or close to, tears.

THE INTERVIEW

    Jenn and I did not waste a minute in our attempt to make the most of the limited time we had left. Almost immediately after deciding we’d travel the road ahead as one, we booked a cabin for the Millinocket Marathon & Half. I had run the half marathon there twice before but had always driven up and back on the same day. This year, we were determined to take full advantage of our marathon weekend together.

THE BARGAINING

 Almost immediately after making my decision I felt sad, helpless, and full of remorse.

    Had I made the right choice? Did I even have a one? How did it all end up like this? And could I have done anything differently? It was a very confusing and emotional time. With one question answered, there were so many more left trailing behind in its wake.