Hood to Coast Relay Movie

Hood to Coast Relay

Ever heard of it?

This premier relay event (the largest in the world) showcases teams of 8- 12 people taking turns to complete 200 miles from Mt. Hood to the Oregon coast.

Each person runs 3 legs, with each leg ranging from 3.5 – 8 miles. Teams run through the night and finish in 17-36 hours.

As part of the Big Wild Life Runs pre-race events, the race organizers showed the Hood to Coast Realy Movie at Bear Tooth Theater Pub last night.

(Source)

Craig and I went to the documentary last night, and I have to admit I wasn’t expecting anything too grand. I was excited to see it, but I didn’t think it would be anything spectacular. . . . .but boy was I wrong. It exceeded my expectations!!

It was funny. . . it tugged at your heart, and it really made me (and Craig) want to move to Oregon!

If you need some motivation to run. . . . watch this!! It was awesome! 😀

In addition to seeing a great movie, the director and producer, Christoph Baaden, came to the showing and answered questions afterward!!

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Awkward transition. . . . . .somewhat related to the things above, yet not so much.

I have to admit, before moving up here, I knew nothing about Alaska, but since living here for 4 years, I start to forget how naive (and I mean that in the nicest possible way!) people are about this state—a state that often feels like a different country.

Two editors from Runner’s World flew up to Anchorage for the Big Wild Life Runs races this weekend, and one of them shared some thoughts shortly after arriving here today.

(My responses are in bold and italics.)

It’s a beautiful place, I must say. And already I’ve learned a lot:

• Anchorage is actually four hours behind Eastern time — not three, as I’d assumed. (understandable)

• There is not an enormous mural of Sarah Palin’s smiling face greeting visitors at the airport, as I’d imagined. (It was taken down after the people stopped liking her. Just kidding, there never really was one.)
  
  
• Moose do not run rampant through city streets, shops, and private homes, as I’d hoped. Although I did spot a large bear in my hotel lobby. He may have been stuffed; I didn’t stick around to find out. (Actually moose do!)
  
  
• Most merchants here accept American currency. Which is nice. (Really? We are part of the United States. And “no” you cannot see Russia from Anchorage!)

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(Another awkward transition. . .)

Attention Anchorage-area Locals. . . . .

The church Craig and I attend (Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church) is hosting their annual Greek Festival this weekend.

This is a fun, family-friendly event complete with Greek food, Greek dancing, and Greek music (who knew!). There is also activities for the kids to do. (Craig is in charge of this booth!)

Plus it is free! Free admission. . . . free parking!!

We have been working hard making baklava, gyros, and all of your other favorite Greek foods—all homemade!

When:

Friday, August 19 ~ 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Saturday, August 20 ~ 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Sunday, August 21 ~ noon – 8 p.m.

Where:

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church

2800 O’Malley Road, Anchorage, AK   

Hope to see you there!