Last weekend, I traveled to Vermont with my boyfriend, Steve, and his son Leo. We were headed up for Leo to compete in his first marathon. You can read all about his race on page 8. Since I am more than a little biased and wanted Leo to have the full experience of an actual newspaper interview, I left the story in the capable hands of Dave Bellomo. So, go read Dave’s story, and I’ll meet you back here in a few…

OK, ready? Because I would like to add a little something…

I can’t begin to tell you how incredibly proud of Leo I am. He worked ridiculously hard to accomplish this marathon and deserves every bit of recognition he gets for it, regardless of my bias!

Steve and Leo have spent the last couple of months training so hard for this event. Rain, cold, getting up at o’dark-thirty for runs — you name it!

So congratulations to Leo on his accomplishment! You should be proud of yourself, Kiddo.

On a side note: I also decided to do the little run offered at Infinitus. I did the 8-mile loop and managed not to die, so yay! for me too!

I don’t know, y’all. It looks like summer may finally be here! It’s supposed to be hot, hot, hot this week! I managed to snag a couple of kayaks a few weeks ago, so I am looking forward to getting them in the water and seeing what the local creeks and lakes have to offer. I’ll be sure to re-read Jamie Spencer’s ‘Paddling 101’ article from a couple of weeks ago before I head out!

In the process of trying to ensure that I didn’t die in Vermont, I discovered that I really enjoy being out on trails. So I want to get out and check out some hiking and trails locally this summer also. Rider Park and Jacoby Falls are at the start of my list, but I’ve also seen some incredible-looking hikes that some Facebook friends have been on a little farther down the line that I would like to check out too!

If you have suggestions on good places to go hiking or kayaking, drop me a line and let me know! I’m always open to suggestions!

Don’t forget, as we kick off summer, to be safe out there! Lots of sunscreen, check for ticks, no drinking and boating, and take care of each other.

We are getting back to some semblance of normal, so get out and enjoy the summer. Go out to eat, visit a local business, enjoy all the outdoorsy stuff our area has to offer. It’s been a long year and change, don’t let your time go to waste!