August 25

Distance: 11.4 miles
Song of the Run: I'm Yours - Jason Mraz
Weather: Beautiful 73 degrees

Run Notes:
After the last two runs in which I was sucking wind, I finally had a wonderful run. Very proud of the distance and that I am still feeling strong afterwards. My only regret is that I veered from my original route at the last minute and by doing so bypassed the place to stop for water earlier in the run. Still it worked out.

The Morning Run
I have always felt morning runners were more relaxed and friendly. It's one of the reasons I am willing to get up so early and get out there. I get a lot of "hellos" in the a.m. and not just from runners. Bikers, gardeners, and walkers will also give you a greeting. The only major change in the 30 years I have been running are those who have earbuds on and so tuned into whatever they are listening to that they tend to not notice anyone. It's sad that they are missing out on the human interaction element of the run.

Part of running for me is the opportunity to see the neighborhoods and the people that live in them. I notice the changes in the houses and yards. I often see the same people day after day and it makes me feel connected somehow. You become part of the community of the morning.

The highlight of today's run was a man in an Alfa Romeo Spider. Convertible and tomato red. What a hot car! As I ran passed I called out to him, "Fantastic car!" He smiled and said thank you, then revved it a couple of times. It gave me a good laugh! These chance meetings are just as important a link to the life of the neighborhood.

Everyday I see something new. Landscaping, wildlife, construction, but most of all it is the people. They are running, walking the dog, riding to work, gardening, or maybe just picking up the newspaper. They keep me going with a simple wave, a smile, or hello. So for those of you immersed in your ipods let me just tell you; you have no idea what you are missing.