In addition to my scheduled marathon training, I’m motivated to work on strengthening everything from my arms to my core. Although I do have a high school reunion coming up, my motivation has nothing to do with looking good in a new dress.  I am motivated for another reason: Half Dome.

After opting to swim instead of strengthen my muscles on Tuesday night, I could not let another day pass without pumping it up. So, after dinner and dishes, I headed to the garage with my collection of dumbbells. About an hour later, I moved inside to grunt and tug on my neglected pull-up bar.

NOW my arms are shaking and I’m sufficiently humbled. You could say that I’ve got a lot of work ahead of me.

One look at my sink and you know that this isn’t any ordinary salad. The grilled salmon is the easiest of preparations and the dressing is the most elaborate part. Fortunately, it is quite extraordinary — worth every one of those dirty dishes.

Older siblings are awesome. Initially, they lead by example. Then, they walk beside you. And in no time, they will simply arrange to meet up with you so you both can share the details of your adventures.