Scary Cliffs.

 As I'm writing this, Cameron is destroying a frisbee in the floor right in front of me.

This is the post I was working on yesterday when I was being a good girl and staying in because I have to run sixteen miles today...no, I still haven't done it.  I will post after I run and let you know how it goes.  I had every intention of being good - I really did.  I was relaxing and playing the guitar with the Texas/Oklahoma softball game on in the background when I received a text from Dan.  It seemed innocent enough:  "hey...wanna grab a drink with my parents?"  I love parents, so of course, I said yes.  What happened next was a night of silliness and dancing...and I didn't roll in until 2:00 AM this morning.  Thanks Dan.
  
Yesterday, I'd planned on going kayaking on the Potomac, but Thompson's Boat House wasn't allowing 

A heart to heart with my best friend.

people on the water (something about bad water quality).  Instead, I went hiking at Great Falls National Park.  If you haven't been there and live Northern Virginia, shame on you!  I'm just kidding around, but the park is absolutely gorgeous and the trail network can't be beat.

 Cameron and I usually tromp around Teddy Roosevelt Island or hit the trails out at Scott's Run along the Potomac, but in the mood for an adventure, we ventured down Georgetown Pike to Great Falls.  Now, Cameron LOVES hiking, but she has gotten in the funny habit of carrying a toy around in her mouth throughout the hike.  Typically, it's her bumper from South Carolina, but yesterday, her toy of choice happened to be a small tire. 

From the moment we get out of the car, Cameron snatches the tire out of my hand and begins toting it around in her mouth.  She doesn't sit the toy down for anything except treats and water, but yesterday, she dropped her toy in a very bad spot and I learned two things about myself:  1.  I am very afraid of heights and 2.  I would do anything for my dog. 



Really scary cliffs...no lie.

 Great Falls isn't just known for its trails and picnic area - it is also a big hangout for local rock climbers.  Seemingly sheer cliffs jut out into the Potomac providing great overlooks and areas for climbers to test their skills.  I stepped close to the edge of the cliff to snap a picture of the Potomac, and Cameron (tire in her mouth) decided to take a closer look as well. 

At the sight of the water below, Cam's ears perked up, and she dropped her tire over the edge.  As soon as it fell, she started whimpering and I went into Mom mode.  I noticed that the tire was caught on a ledge about five feet below me and out of my reach, so I lowered myself over the edge and slid down the rock face for her toy.  Luckily, I made it, but looking down at the rapids below made my head spin - I've never been so glad to be on solid ground again. 

That's one tired puppy.


Still, seeing her tail wag wildly and watching her smile with the tire in her mouth totally made my dangerous and dumb tire rescue worthwhile.  I really love that silly puppy.

Well, it looks like the rain has let up some, and I have a long run ahead of me.  Wish me luck.

Happy running!