Today: The perfect start to summer.

[tweetmeme source=”elizabethev” only_single=false]While the summer solstice is still weeks away, Memorial Day Weekend always feels like the unofficial start to the season.  If this weekend is any indication, this is going to be…

I left work early on Friday for a very special occasion: my younger sister’s law school commencement.  I am so proud of her and all that she has accomplished over the last three years.  In addition to her course work, she’s helped with fair housing practices, worked alongside a chief US magistrate judge, and done legal work at a private firm, and for a hospital system.  She’s incredible.  I know I said this already, but I am so proud of her.

After the ceremony, we all headed south to my parents’ house for celebratory Champagne and a cookout.  I stopped in Southie on the way to grab Clark; he’s always down to be social.

On Saturday, I met my lovely friend Elizabeth at South Station and we caught up on life while walking over to the Seaport.  We picked up our bibs for the Run to Remember and took a few goofy photos at the expo’s mock finish line before quickly heading back to my place.  We were on a mission: pool or bust.  With temperatures in the high 80’s, I was determined to (responsibly) soak up some rays.  I packed plenty of sunscreen and magazines to last us through the morning.

When the sun ducked behind the clouds, I packed up my towel and headed over to my brother and sister-in-law’s apartment, where they were setting up my future niece or nephew’s nursery.  I tried to help fold and sort the baby’s clothes, but I spent more time  oohing and awwing and saying things like “Oh my goodness!  Little pants!” and less time actually being helpful.  I can’t wait ’til the little guy or girl arrives.

Tina picked me up bright and early for Sunday’s race.  She took off for the half marathon 15 minutes before our 5 miler started.  Elizabeth and I ran side by side most of the way, which made my morning.  This was her first race and I have a feeling it won’t be her last.  I love having running pals. 🙂  As soon as Tina crossed the half marathon finish line, we tooted down to Canton to meet up with Nick and Mal at the CrossFit Regionals at Reebok Headquarters.  It was so cool to be back there so soon after our fitness blogger event earlier this month.

Being a CrossFit outsider, I must have asked Nick a thousand questions.  It was really incredible to see each team and individual compete at such high levels.  I stood in the bleachers for most of the afternoon with my mouth hanging wide open in awe.  I can see why Nick, Tina, Mal, Bridget and so many others are hooked.  The strong community I always hear about was clearly on display at Reebok this weekend.  Competitors stayed to cheer on other athletes, and box pride– from teeshirts to banners to tattoos– was undeniable.  Nick’s box, CrossFit Southie, did especially well and is advancing to the CrossFit Games in California this summer.  It was great to meet some his fellow CrossFitters.  Is that what you call them?  

I rounded out the weekend, and the start to summer, with a quick run this morning along the Harborwalk.  The Runner’s World Summer Running Streak began today, and I’ve decided to accept the challenge to run at least one mile every day between Memorial Day and Independence Day.  I think it will be a great way to stay motivated between races, and perhaps prompt me to explore some new routes in the neighborhood.  It’s not too late to join in the fun.  You’ve got 11 hours left to run today.. in Boston, at least… I think.  Math and timezones have never been my strong suit.

It’s been a practically perfect start to the summer, and I am always thankful to have a long weekend to stretch the fun out just a bit longer.  I am even more thankful, though, for all of our country’s servicemen and women, their families and their loved ones.  Happy Memorial Day.

Also On Tap for Today:

• Making a summer “bucket list”
• Tasty summer drinks 🙂
• Snuggling with the Frenchie

What are you most looking forward to this summer?