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Penny Minges

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Gobi March (2011) blog posts from Penny Minges

01 July 2011 04:30 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

We finished the Long March today at noon.  80.km through the dy and night.  The salt flats were brutal!  It was an out and out slog - one foot in front of the other.  The heat has been a killer for everyone.  Two of our tent mates are back in Urumqii dealing with dehydration along with a very large number of people.  Before ckpt 5 last night, we came across a man who was so very tired and dehydrated at two in the morning.  At that pt we all had been going for the full day in the sun and high temps and he did not want to give up.  Lucky one of the trekkers was a dr. for it was scary out in ;nowhere;.  We walked for a bit with him, made sure he had water and PEPSI , for we were given that under the table..ha,ha.Stayed with him until he made it to ckpt.  Then while we were taking care , Michelle fainted.  It was two in the morning!  Anyway, she was ok and went on and he literally slogged along.  Unfortunately he withdrew today for his back was hurting.  We slept at ckpt 5 for about 1 1/2 hours - my feet were in total pain with blisters on heels but we went on.  Ben has quite a few blisters too.  So before that drama, we donned our headlamps and went into the desert which was really beautiful with the stars but a very uneven course.  I am awe of those that run this thing.  The heat heat heat, the rocks and sand the hills...amazing.  We totally just want to finish in good health , except of our feet!  So you know, I am tired.  I kept saying to Ben that all i wanted to do is sleep when we got to camp.  Had a great nap, as did everyone.  Looking forward to our last day of 12 km through canyons to the finish line.  Cold shower, ice, ice, ice.  The water is only getting hotter by the day.  We have been helping ea other get through the heat and never-ending terrain.  Oh, our over night ckpt was Gao Chung ruins an original from the silk road!!!   We arrive at 4 am slept for 1 1/2 hrs outside under the stars and wished we had m0re time there.  Interesting.  Glad u see pics and such.  We can;t get to the blog site but i have read your posts and they are needed and appreciated.  I will try to respond more when we get back into ;life.;  We can hardly think of anyuthing but getting through and chatting with the great people here.  Forgive my tiredness and go on the site for pics and info - i can;t wait to see the site;s pics.  The dunes were incredible and beautiful!!!!  Hope lots of pics of them!!!  OK - mint tea and a sleep.  We slow pokes head out an hr early tomorrow so looking forward to a shower, ice cold drinks, any food that isn;t freeze dried.  Thank you thank you for your posts and keeps us going!  Love you!!!

Comments: Total (1) comments

Posted On: 08 Jul 2011 10:43 pm

Wow by now you should have had some good rest and recovery I hope. Then you can really look back at the amazing experience you just had.....incredible Penny! Love ya!

29 June 2011 05:15 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

So sorry for not sending last night.  We got in quite late, had to eat and lights out.  Stayed at a village in the desert.  The locals were so kind andOpened their homes to us! The river near was cold and we put our feet after arriving.  We completed 27 miles yesterday.  Our tent mates wereKind to set up our sleeping area, Ben and I ate an then got our stuff together for we were to leave at four for a three hour ride to the dunes ofThe Gobi.  Of course everyone is working on a very short mt of sleep but were ready to roll after three hrs in the bus and a stop for a flat tire on the bus.Today was the sand dunes and dunettes.  Let me just say it was a killer of a day.  23 miles at 54 degrees centigrade.  Ben and I made it just at cutoff.  
So
Started at eight and finished at eight.  So many people are not well.  Lots of dehydrated runners and heard there were a few withdraws.  Ben got us through and thankfully he just kept time and made sure we were hydarated.  I am proud that we planned for the worst case scenario and put in so many salt capsules and nuun and we knew before getting here the program we wold follow.  It saved us.  It was just a brutal day.   Everyone has been so supportive of everyone throughout the race.  The pictures of the dnunes will be amazing.  It even rained a bit this morning in the desert.  The day was dedicated to my dear friend, Jane, who was with us all the way!  Tomorrow is the 81 km day with a night thrown in.  We r looking forward to the night hike and the stars. I better go now and eat and get ready for tomorrow.  Your thoughts are getting us through.  Tomorrow’s day is dedicated to Tim because of his unending support and because it is his birthday!!!!  Wish we were there to celebrate and glad we had some time at Lost Heaven.  We feel thankful and relieved that we got through these stages.  Next time will let u know when we finish stage 5!!!!!

Comments: Total (36) comments

Posted On: 06 Jul 2011 03:15 pm

Congratulations Penny and Ben! Just got back from vacation and enjoyed reading your blog. What a wonderful memory for Mom and Son. What a fantastic accomplishment. I cannot wait to see pictures. Are you going to continue your bucket list into 2012?

Posted On: 06 Jul 2011 03:10 pm

Congratulations Penny

Posted On: 06 Jul 2011 10:08 am

Penny and Ben, It was great fun watching you complete the Gobi March this year. A big congratulations on your success!

Posted On: 06 Jul 2011 06:26 am

Oh my...I was looking for you on Facebook...just checking whether you would be in Whistler this summer so we could catch up...and lo and behold you are in the Gobi desert...you GO girl!! Absolutely amazing! And what a wonderful bonding trip for you and Ben. I will be rooting for the both of you. lots of love and hugs love Amrita and the boys

Posted On: 04 Jul 2011 08:21 pm

Penny-Ben-Amazing and unbelievable-You guys have done an amazing job and I am so proud of both of you -Can't wait to see pictures Too

Posted On: 04 Jul 2011 12:00 pm

Ben, Penny, A belated congratulations on what is an amazing, awesome and undoubtedly a life-changing achievement. I work at PepsiCo and as a fellow runner Tim flagged you were doing this race. I've been watching from the sidelines and am in total awe. You have inspired me to pencil this on my calendar for next year! Congratulations on an amazing adventure. Best, Emma.

Posted On: 03 Jul 2011 05:44 pm

Well done and will remember for long the beautiful moment of you and your son crossing the finish line together ! all the best and keep in touch ! cheers joachim [email protected] +65 9221 9955

Posted On: 03 Jul 2011 07:41 am

Penny - amazing work - you and Ben are awesome. Enjoy the beer and the shower and I will look forwards to hearing all the stories!! Jo

Posted On: 03 Jul 2011 02:11 am

Penelope, you were quite nifty at fifty, but now I must say you are simply AMAZING! Your determination and positive mindset are things I am going to recall whenever I feel challenged, (comparatively minor challenges, obviously). Know you are in my thoughts, daily, and in my heart, always. May you feel lightfooted as you make your way to the finish line! Love you, Linda

Posted On: 03 Jul 2011 12:23 am

penny --many congrats to you on your huge accomplishment--hope you are pampering your feet, and enjoying some good food and cold beer---take care---g-ma minges and sugie

Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 04:21 pm

WOW! Congrats! Way to go. We woke up today and Tim and kids asked, did Penny and Ben finish? YES. The story and photos are amazing as well as your journey. Congrats to you and Ben. What a special time.

Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 07:59 am

I am so excited for you and Ben knowing you are almost finished! Last 14 ks! What would you give for a foot massage? haha! You are both incredible. Cant wait to see the pics. Love, Diane

Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 05:11 am

Pen What a way to end a year, 51 just around the corner but you certainly made your 50th year a memorable one. I am so very impressed, you have always been a strong woman, but you are now in a another league all together. Wow, what a week. See you soon, Love, Tim

Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 04:25 am

Penny, you are Fabulous and Fantastic at Fifty! We are so happy that this challenge was a success for you and Ben and inspired by your fortitude.

Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 03:31 am

Penny...you are awesome!!!!

Posted On: 02 Jul 2011 03:16 am

WOW I cannot believe I really know someone that is doing this event. I am so very honored to know both of you and to be included in your adventure. Looking forward to going through it all again with you when you come to Whistler. SO PROUD! SO WONDERFUL!

Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 01:33 pm

Fans of Penny and Ben: several very nice photos on stage 5 today: #41, #107,#108 Good luck guys, just 10 km from a medal that will change you forever! Admiringly, Tim, Dad

Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 06:05 am

Fans of Ben and Penny: a great new photo posted today, check out photos/stage 4/ photo #17

Posted On: 01 Jul 2011 05:48 am

Now that was a birthday present!!! I was glued to the updates all night but only knew you made it to checkpoint 4 late last night ; I cannot imagine what it took to push on through the middle of the night to do another full marathon, but you did it. Everyone says the Gobi, and esp the Long March are 90% mental, I think I'm married to Einstein! Pen I am so proud of you and Ben I could burst. Enjoy the long long well deserved sleep this afternoon, just one more day, YOU GOT THIS THING! Love, Tim

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 11:35 pm

Penny and Ben, I continue to be amazed and awed by you guys! You are in my thoughts. Keep up the amazing journey. Luci

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 11:14 pm

I don't know what your secret is (super marathon training, fierce resolve, a backpack full of crystal meth...) but Stage 4 sounded like a beast and you got through it. Good luck on the final push!!

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 10:22 pm

You guys are incredible!!! Been thinking of you and Ben every day! Happy Birthday to Tim!

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 08:58 pm

Penny what an absolute wonder you and Ben are. So great to have each other's support! Keep on trekkin' Happy Birthday Tim! Hugs!

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 03:17 pm

Penny, when Kathleen told me what you guys were doing, I just had to check out the site. Amazing stuff!! Truly awesome that you and your son have the fortitude to do something like that. Really cool. Hang in there and take some time to enjoy the sand between your toes! Can't wait to see more pictures when you are back in Cincy again.

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 03:10 pm

Hi Penny and Ben. Bill and I have been following your progress and were a little worried when you didn't blog after stage 1, but it sounds like you are "conquering" the Gobi. WAY TO GO. It's been an adventure just following your adventures. Can't wait to see the photos.

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 02:51 pm

Stage 5 ( March to Hell) update: Just got word from the organizers that Pen and Ben just got to checkpoint 4 (10:30pm local time), that's 43km's down ( another marathon to go tonight). Word from the checkpoint was Ben said..'I never thought this checkpoint existed' , but they are both in good spirits , encouraged by nightfall and cool air and looking forward to using their head lamps and following the glow sticks overnight. Keep them in your thoughts, they are soooo close. Tim

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 02:28 pm

Pen: I just saw the pic recommended by Tim of you and Ben - OMG - are you crazy?!!! Where is the Cheviot in you? Looks like a great time and I bet the folks you are traveling with are lots of fun. I\'m thinking and praying for you. Linda

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 02:25 pm

Pen Thanks for the great birthday dedication, next time when you ask me what I want for my birthday I won't say 'go take a hike' :-) perhaps next year we should go to the beach instead! Love, Tim Bloggers: great photo of Pen and Ben on the face book scroll at the bottom of home page or on stage 5 photo wall

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 02:08 pm

Go Penny! You are doing great!Nice steady pace will get you where you want to be! Fantastic journey for both you and Ben. Keep the Faith!

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 09:46 am

Pen I am writing this as you approach checkpoint 3 on day 5, but you'll be reading it when you are done and ready for the well deserved vitory lap into the finish line. I am so proud of you guys, you had a plan, you were well prepared and it looks like you are executing it very well. Many more experienced trekkers have run into challenges but you two keep soldiering on. I cannot even imagine the pounding your feet and knees are taking in this heat and with that weight on your back. You are a real inspiration! Love, Tim PS: Indra says hello and wishes you and Ben all the best.

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 03:54 am

Penny, awesome work - you and Ben sound like you are mentally so tough and I don't doubt you will get through this. The long day is always, well, long! But take it one stage at a time - although you will be done by the time you get this and I don't doubt you will have amazing tales of walking at night under a starry starry night - I bet the night sky is amazing. Keep it up. Fantastic work! Jo

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 03:50 am

Go Penny Go!! I just had a conversation today with a young boy about changing "I can't" into "I can" and that when something is difficult the rewards for doing it are even greater. You are doing just that!!! Cheering you on from Houston!

Posted On: 30 Jun 2011 03:11 am

Penny and Ben- you both are so inspiring. Thank you for letting us share this adventure with you Good Luck the rest of the way! All in Buffalo rooting for you!

Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 11:22 pm

Ahhh, dear Jane. What a nice dedication. It sounds a little scary out there. Keep doing what you're doing because apparently it's working for you guys. Thoughts and prayers are comin' your way,

Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 09:55 pm

hi penny and ben thinking of u both ----good luck with stage 5---there is a great article re u and ben on the web page take care----mary and sugie

Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 08:54 pm

You go girl! What an inspiration you are! Thinking of you and Ben every day. Diane xo

27 June 2011 10:30 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

You may be wondering why we didn;t blog yesterday after Stage 1.  We were unbelievably tired after the 34.6km hike.  Before we began, everyone was chatting about the ease of this first stage but was proven wrong by the actual course.  Everything was going along swimmingly until we came upon a downhill of rocks and shale and many people sliding down on their bums.  I was so afraid of twisting an ankle that I took lots of time and was thankful for trekking poles that were like crutches.  After, we had great uphills and downhills and rolling meadows surrounded by gorgeous, huge, awesome gigantic mountains of rock that take on so many shades of brown.  Just beautiful.  The sun was out, the temps soared, we hydrated constantly but still felt the heat so we kept thinking the hills would never end!  It was such a treat to see camp and hear the drum welcoming us back home.  Had a much better sleep last night than the first night.  Getting used to sleeeping on rocky terrain and having lots of laughs with the tent mates.  Just a great group of people with a fun sense of humor and adventure.  
 
We just finished stage 2 today which was an easy 19.6 km.  We woke to fog that enveloped us to such a degree that we couldn;t see 25 yards in front of us.  Our start time was delayed four hours and the course shortened.  It ended up to be a very comfortable day with cool temps and some rain.  Ben and I decided to take lots of pics and take our time.  We had a river crossing and we decided to take our shoes off for the frigid water that actually felt great on our  road weary feet.  I can;t begin to explain how beautiful camp settings have been.  Also enjoying seeing the locals ride by on horseback.  Will never get used to the bathrm accomodations but it works.  Been talking already about food we will eat upon our return....steak, pizza!!!!  Yay!!!   Today, Stage 2, was dedicated to my father who was a strong, hard-working, fun man. 
 
Tomorrow, Stage 3, looks to be quite daunting with 44 km planned and more water crossing and, of course, mtns to climb.   Stage 3 if dedicated to my daughter, Lizzie, who embodies strength, determination, humor and sensitivity.  Lizzie-wish you were here for the settings are perfect for Paleolithic Park 2!!  Will get on tomorrow evening.  Can;t read blog today so hope u guys are reading and enjoying.

Comments: Total (16) comments

Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 05:12 pm

Hi Penny, This is so AWESOME! Thinking about you and Ben everyday, especially when I was sitting on my butt for an 8 hour drive to San Diego - such a contrast to what you are doing! Keep up the good work - hugs to you both. You GO GIRL! Love, Tiff

Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 11:53 am

Wow Penny, way to make Cheviot proud!!! You know you got this hiking bug from our hike to Reemelin Road to see the space ship, right?? Enjoy all that the trip offers you each day. You have my admiration :)

Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 11:35 am

Penny, This is so exciting...please remember every detail so that you can tell us lots of stories in Whistler!!! Thinking of both you and Ben and cheering you on!!! love, Anne

Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 09:23 am

Pen Congrats on day 4, it looked like it was tough with all that soft sand, hope your poor feet are holding out! You are now a star, the organizers just put up an interview with you and Ben on their "Features" section! So cool! So so proud of you, you are so strong and determined, what will you do for your 60th? Love, Tim

Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 06:20 am

Pen, by now you must have emotied your shoes of sand a gizllion times, but I am so proud of you are soldiering on, it looks incredibly hard, mauch harder than I imagined. You rock! Love, Tim Fellow bloggers: FINALLY a piture of both Pen and Ben , look on stage 3 pictures number 18

Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 03:17 am

Way to go Penny. So happy you are well into it with a smile on your face. Big hug to you and Ben too.

Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 02:23 am

Penny, You are amazing!!! I can't believe what you and Ben are doing! When you get to Whistler, I will hike with you in the mountains; you will run up, and I will take the gondola up. Enjoy and keep safe. Luci

Posted On: 29 Jun 2011 01:14 am

Hi,Pen! Wow! What a day! I was worried that I couldn't connect to your blog, but I see now it was the system and nothing on this end. Still, relieved you are all right. I agree with everyone's comments: you are a strong, amazing woman who will serve as inspiration to all future generations of this family. Darling Yohnny is rooting for you, I am certain! Love you so, Penelope. Stay strong! Linda

Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 09:14 pm

GO Aunt P!! You are such an inspiration. And my goodness are you a strong, beautiful woman. So happy to hear of your treks thus far. 'Keep on keeping on!'

Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 04:40 pm

congrats, Penny! Sounds like you're tackling it all out there. So very excited to hear how much you two are enjoying it. Hope the backpack has become comfortable and a little more user-friendly the less there is inside of it! The best of luck for stage three and your favorite river crossings (your .5 of a payday will be unquestionably well earned = ] )

Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 04:39 pm

Penny this sounds SOOOO awesome. I can't wait to hear all about it in person. What an incredible adventure and to experience it with Ben is wonderful! Thinking about you! love, judy

Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 03:30 pm

Aw yeah! I was hoping I'd get one a' those dedications! (haha!) Sounds gorgeous and exhausting out there, I am so glad you guys are getting the opportunity to write these blogs! Dad and I are emailing each other daily when we think we find pictures of you guys or hear official updates from the course...GO MA!!

Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 02:37 pm

Hey Pen Finally was able to read the blog,I am happy to hear you guys are in such great spirits, after seeing the photos that they are posting of the stunning scenery I can see why, simply beautiful landscape. I see the temp was also only 6 degrees so those coats were a great investment after all!! Hope today went well, looks like another long , tough trek, but from what I could gather also great scenery. glad to hear you guys have a great tent, we are all rooting for you and Ben, but most of all admiring you for your determination to soldier on in such tough, and unexpected conditions. You will have quite a story to tell to our grandkids about what grandma did in her 50th year! Walk On ! Love, Tim

Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 01:23 pm

Penny, at last we can read Blog 2 - you sound like you are loving it and I got goosebumps remembering the wonderful feeling as you see the flags and hears the drums. Glad you have a lovely tent (I think everyone thinks theirs is the best!!) You sound in great spirit and I'm glad stage 2 was a bit easier and cooler to allow you to get back strength for stage 3. Fantastic work and avidly waiting for next instalment - as Tim says - the comms are very frustrating and slow. Stay safe. Jo

Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 01:19 pm

Been following your trip Penny and simply amazing. Great blog makes it fun to follow your journey. Keep it up and really enjoy each minute. What a special journey. -MJV

Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 12:10 pm

Pen The system has been very unreliable, I can't even read today's blog so I can't wait to read about stage 1,but wanted you to know that we are all trying desperately to follow you and Ben. Hope all is well! Love, Tim

25 June 2011 09:06 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

Made it to camp after stopping at a small village festival.  Getting acclimated to tent life and already missing the comforts of home.  It took me fifteen minutes to locate where i put my tea bags however now that i have my mint tea and a computer, welll....it is almost like home.  We are tented near a small grove of trees, a stone wall surrounds us and the mtns rise up around us.  It is so very beautiful and vast.  Hoping to have some sleep tonight and ready to experience the next chapter.  Until tomorrow...

Comments: Total (12) comments

Posted On: 28 Jun 2011 01:28 am

I am reading every news/updates/results, looking through the pictures and trying to find you guys! Glad you made it through stage 2. I hope all the training pays off. Take lots and lots of pictures please! I want to do this with you guys next time! sahara race? haha. GOOD LUCK! finish strong!!! and more blogs pleaseee!

Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 11:17 pm

Wow, ma! Can't believe you guys are out there right now...looking so forward to reading all your updates in the coming week. Hope you're taking tons of pictures and enjoying your 'bacon' in the morning :)

Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 07:56 am

Hi, Penelope! You've made it through Day 1, so I hope you are feeling large and in charge, Sistah! Am enjoying your blogs and hope -as difficult as your days are- this is all you had hoped it would be. I am so proud to be your sister-in-law. Thinking of you each day and hoping you and Ben continue to hang tough! love love love Linda

Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 07:29 am

Hi Pen, You must now be trying to dry out after a wet Stage 2 trek thru the desert ( go figure) ; sounds like an interesting day, can't wait to get details. with baited breath.....Love, Tim

Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 03:30 am

Hi Penny, was hoping to read how day 1 went and by now you will be stuck into day 2. I hope you are loving it and not suffering any blisters yet. Day 2 can be the toughest as your pack doesn't feel lighter and your legs are heavy - by day 3 you will get into the swing of it and the pack is lighter - I'm sure you will need all your food. Really excited for you and looking forward to the next blog! Jo

Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 12:00 am

Aunt Penny, I\'m so excited for you! If your competitors aren\'t quaking in fear at the legendary \"Minges Moxie\", they soon will be. I look forward to seeing you post-Gobi (preferably in some dark exotic bar) where you, tanned and grizzled, can regale us with tales of this new adventure. You are an unstoppable force. Keep smiling and keep posting! Love, Chris

Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 01:11 pm

Hi Penny, So how was the first day? and night? was thinking of you and could see you walking through the day. Enjoy the stars and keep going tomorrow!

Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 11:58 am

Penny .. Tim described the march to us at our Tomson get together this evening. Wow !! Amazing !! This must be the end of day 1 for you. Can't wait to read your blog about it. We wish you and Ben all the best. ... Rajeev and Shaila

Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 11:45 am

Pen Wow, from what I read day one was a killer stage, 800 meters of elevation with steep inclines and declines, can't wait to hear details, but looks very very tough, congrats on getting thru it! Love, Tim

Posted On: 26 Jun 2011 12:59 am

Pen, By now you should be enjoying a freeze dried chicken tikka meal after day one, bet you never thought it could taste so good. :-) Can't wait to hear the details, the organizers posted a lot of pictures of the camp and competitiors, the scenery looks amazing, still looking for a shot of you guys in there. Liz and I held a Dexter season 2 marathon yesterday,she really liked it; she is all packed and ready to head home this afternoon :-( Love, Tim

Posted On: 25 Jun 2011 11:54 pm

Pen: While you are there, I am in upstate NY, getting ready to drop Mark off at WP - 2 days from now. We're both a long way from Cheviot. But you and Ben inspire me - there will be many mom,son events in our future. Take care, and I'm praying for a great trip for you and Ben. "Don't Stop Believing" Love, Lin

Posted On: 25 Jun 2011 08:53 pm

hi penny and ben hope u are doing well am looking forward to reading your blogs----good luck and again keep hydrated take care---sugie and g=ma minges

24 June 2011 08:49 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

Today's gonna be a good day!!! Went through first briefing, med'l ck, bag and equipment ck, rev'd the week's plan and get on a bus to travel three hours from here to our first camp and start of race. On way we will stop in a village and join with villagers in celebration?!! How fun is that?? Lots of smiles and colors. So I was pretty anxious about the weighing of my bag...thought I would be one of the heaviest since I am such a novice at this and finding it difficult to pare down the contents of my bag. Never know when you might need this or that, right? I was relieved that it weighed in at 9.5 kg so close to the average of 20 lbs. I am ok with that. Still have more food than I ever eat when i am out exercising but who knows? I will prob be ravenous and glad I have some choices. Our first stage is 21.5 miles which will start flat and go into a steep climb onto plains and up and down some valleys then descend into camp. Can't wait!!! Thanks for the encouragement for it is so appreciated and will help get me/us through this adventure. I am dedicating the first day to my strong, smart, intelligent, musical mother.

Comments: Total (2) comments

Posted On: 27 Jun 2011 07:42 am

Penny, I know Yoanie will be with you every step of the way and enjoying every minute! YOU are marvelous! Love you! Linda

Posted On: 25 Jun 2011 08:08 am

Pen Have a great first night in the desert, enjoy the stars and try and get some rest, good luck tomorrow! Love, Tim

23 June 2011 07:29 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

So we are here in Urumqi! Flying over the terrain brought the realization of the peaks, valleys and lack of green that lay ahead for us. It looked quite like Tim's Ipad pics that he would show us leading up to our departure so u can get a pretty good glimpse from afar of the terrain. Ben bought a new camera that shows detail well so will be able to get some great shots of the colors, lines and character of both the landscape and the people. It was damn hot when we arrived but cooled down quickly after some wind and showers. We enjoyed perusing the stalls of spices, noodles, kababs, raisins, etc..all colorful and aromatic. We head to check in at the hotel and look forward to watching everyone come in from around the world! This feels a bit like the International Fairs at Liz & Ben's schools. So many countries represented! Before I forget, want to thank Tim, Liz, Jen, Paul for their support bringing us supplies and hiking hours with us through sun and too much rain on weekends when they prob would rather do something else. Tim remembers my first marathon and I said, 'i am not sure i can keep moving on my feet for 5 hours' so off we'd go to prove the possibility. Now look! I am not sure I can hike for 150 miles consistently over a week's time...guess I am going to have to prove it! Thanks to Ben for being such a sport to share this with his mom. We have a plan to get through this and know that together we can boost each other to do it. My plan is to do some dancing in the desert and Ben's eyes r already rolling. ;-) 'Mama Told Me Not to Come.'

Comments: Total (4) comments

Posted On: 25 Jun 2011 03:34 am

This is for you, Ladies!!! Thx for the encouragement. We leave today for Gaoyachun Village which is our first camp and start in the morning!! On way there, we r joining with villagers in celebration. Hoping to dance?? Lots of amazing pics we will bring to share with you. So very anxiously excited!!! Your words fill me with strength.

Posted On: 25 Jun 2011 01:47 am

You go girl. Enjoy every step!

Posted On: 24 Jun 2011 10:24 pm

This is AMAZING!!! You BETTER do some dancing... I would do it with you if I were there. I look forward to the pictures, stories, and revelations you have from this experience. Love you and Ben... Marathon- Check Gobi Desert- Here Penny and Ben come!

Posted On: 24 Jun 2011 05:25 am

Penny, just reading your blog has filled me with anticipation for what is to come! I so admire you for this undertaking and love dear Ben for undergoing this trek with you. I know you will support each other daily. Know we love you so and urge you to victory! We know you will finish a stronger, more confidant woman (if that is even possible) ! You go, Girl!

16 June 2011 09:32 am (GMT+08:00) Beijing, Chongqing, Hong Kong, Urumqi

It has been a learning experience so far collecting mandatory equipment, seeking advice from past contenders, watching the training miles stack up. It feels sometimes like I have already run the good race with all this preparation, yet the real race hasn't even begun! The days of wondering if 'it' will ever happen is now. My bag is packed and at the ready. (This just reminded me of giving birth....preparation, questions, anxiety, excitement, bags by the door.) ha ha! I have been advised to just focus on one day at a time so that is the plan. One foot in front of the other, enjoy the experience and keep hydrated. I am vacillating now between the words to Queen's, 'Don't Stop Me Now' and Gnarls Barkley's, 'Crazy.' I am thrilled to share this experience with my son, Ben, who just graduated university. We are both awed and humbled by the challenge ahead yet ready to get to it!!

Comments: Total (5) comments

Posted On: 23 Jun 2011 09:01 am

Penny, the stressful part is all the preparation, now just enjoy it. Take each step at a time, enjoy the scenery (I hope you managed to include a camera) and love being out of contact with the outside world - except all the cheering blog messages. I think you will love it - can't wait to track your blog and hear all about it. Good luck!!

Posted On: 23 Jun 2011 02:04 am

Penny & Ben- Best of luck on this amazing journey. We will be thinking about both of you. You guys can do it!! Love, Pete, Debbie, Christine, Elyse & Annie P.S. Pete says hydrate, hydrate, hydrate and make sure your pee is clear!

Posted On: 23 Jun 2011 01:02 am

Penelope, you are simply amazing! We're in your corner, Lady, and we look forward to hearing all about it via your blog. Much, much love and admiration, Linda and Mike

Posted On: 22 Jun 2011 11:14 pm

Have fun...enjoy the moment..I will be reading your blog!!!

Posted On: 18 Jun 2011 08:21 am

Go Pen go, I am so proud of you! Tim