tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13287218980848917082024-03-12T19:52:16.502-04:00Craig's OTHER ListA former broadcasting guy now working to be happy and maybe successful as well. Running to beat the 20 year-old me from 1996. Morehead State & MSU CC/Track alumni. Find me on Instagram and twitter as: crsimp01
@HoneyStinger Athlete @HoneyStinger AmbassadorCraigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.comBlogger147125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-81581453570793200732024-01-04T20:25:00.000-05:002024-01-04T20:25:13.580-05:00Hanging Up the Running Shoes...<p> Good morning everyone...</p><p>Since August of 2016, thanks to our own Captain Treadmill, I have diligently put in mile after mile. Actually, I had agreed to The Buck Fifty a month before, but didn't start running till a month later (and a full decade since I had run at all) - thanks procrastination! After some initial cursing directed at Mark, I did it willingly and have enjoyed nearly every minute despite the weather, how I was feeling, lack of sunlight or time. Or when Mark then skipped out on the first Buck Fifty after getting us all involved to take a cruise - schmuck ;)</p><p>I made new friends, rekindled old friendships, set PRs, chased down nemesis', climbed ridiculous elevation, lost, won & lost some more & ran on humid jungle-like trails of Costa Rica.</p><p>Attempted & crushed the half marathon (1:23:54), conquered "The Hillbilly" (Gary K. Fetherolf's definition of running the Friday/Saturday Buck Fifty followed by the Athen's Half Marathon that Sunday) and even saw Lauren get interested and begin running as well (I think she was bored always being the chauffeur & cheerleader).</p><p>In this time I met Lauren, moved, got married, had a child and moved again. Lauren ran up until 4 months pregnant, even winning her age group at a half marathon in Holland, Michigan. I continued after Russell arrived and changing to a job requiring a 4am wake up time.</p><p>Now that Russell is approaching two and is as active as a wind up toy on a sugar high, along w/ the hour drive to & from work...I simply have no time to run. Not to mention I would much rather spend time w/ my son as I approach 50 (48 as of 12/20) year of age. I took a break from running shortly after taking the new job, but that break prolonged and I have discovered I don't miss it all that much...some things, but little else.</p><p>To avoid a last minute drop out like last year due to the job change, I am starting 2024 by officially announcing that I am retiring my running shoes and to give the eager Buck Fifty-ers plenty of time to pick up a replacement - if not done so already.</p><p>After 7 years and thousands of miles, my last race, & run, was the Branstool Orchards Spring Blossom 5k trail run on April 15th - I'm happy to say I won it and we made it a family affair as L & R completed it with me. </p><p>I will be cheering and sharing the post race beers with you from afar. A big Thank You to Mark - and all of the current & former Traffic Panthers - for making my forties much more enjoyable than I could ever have imagined.</p><p>Happy New Year and may your next run be your best run - race on friends!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu8y1zL5G3NsnR71AeuSqEy_McnYdecuDYNc0v2cEHF_PadTw45FftysMpyl_ToshygrBXHlUlXEvNwRrVx_pzobM1Mf21LSK0tpXyLYZorvvHhKgb1Hs3wcTVxzUkVNEo-iTXV2wuvobsX6Bp1y7yjM36-S84aiFWIJktDQcVlrsTGYhPPLiuUagT5jKL/s1514/FB_IMG_1704416527886.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1514" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu8y1zL5G3NsnR71AeuSqEy_McnYdecuDYNc0v2cEHF_PadTw45FftysMpyl_ToshygrBXHlUlXEvNwRrVx_pzobM1Mf21LSK0tpXyLYZorvvHhKgb1Hs3wcTVxzUkVNEo-iTXV2wuvobsX6Bp1y7yjM36-S84aiFWIJktDQcVlrsTGYhPPLiuUagT5jKL/s320/FB_IMG_1704416527886.jpg" width="228" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-toOgK-_9OtUsb8-x475lhIt-0ApW7OuAh_hZchUYovMQkK2SiSsMFcC5ObMajFl-P8jDrqc5-mf02uiREzs6Qbpucvyy5y_IM81ZGJjnQ38tTSV336RuCk5Z5vZqjwbZ-O0wPFWICs4i1xB5I5Jn1FZnZge6g6L2RvXSLVQ3NNrbvWuReePGXyxvZJJo/s1626/FB_IMG_1704416533314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1626" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-toOgK-_9OtUsb8-x475lhIt-0ApW7OuAh_hZchUYovMQkK2SiSsMFcC5ObMajFl-P8jDrqc5-mf02uiREzs6Qbpucvyy5y_IM81ZGJjnQ38tTSV336RuCk5Z5vZqjwbZ-O0wPFWICs4i1xB5I5Jn1FZnZge6g6L2RvXSLVQ3NNrbvWuReePGXyxvZJJo/s320/FB_IMG_1704416533314.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWE7K7mIyj-Xf0wLoBHSZAZlZI_QHCCXhOQmVON8v_xn1M81q-SDP0JxNebTUBL4iLqh2z_nBO5QKUKSQE-ysIYv9RoPaZjR2dvy-JcIQIhZ9jLmAKAC2z3H44Y0K7Si4A4pXcTG5XtJbbpOLaOacxiPS0-yVYnFf-U7nS3dBGJuW5RcEs7W6MdzRjz3A/s720/FB_IMG_1704416550386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWE7K7mIyj-Xf0wLoBHSZAZlZI_QHCCXhOQmVON8v_xn1M81q-SDP0JxNebTUBL4iLqh2z_nBO5QKUKSQE-ysIYv9RoPaZjR2dvy-JcIQIhZ9jLmAKAC2z3H44Y0K7Si4A4pXcTG5XtJbbpOLaOacxiPS0-yVYnFf-U7nS3dBGJuW5RcEs7W6MdzRjz3A/s320/FB_IMG_1704416550386.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-35997766900825929132023-04-02T00:52:00.005-04:002023-04-02T00:53:20.101-04:00Run On Buck Fifty Runners!<p> <i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 90%;">“150
miles doesn't come easy. It's challenging. It's tough. But you're tough too.
<a href="https://www.thebuckfifty.com/">The Buck Fifty</a> will build a lifetime bond with your teammates and will show you
just how strong you really are. With beautiful views running through 3 state
parks this is a race you'll never forget.”</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 90%;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 90%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 90%;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 90%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxf9M28GSTBdpbMJXHwe3C7Mqajbgd2W-79X-uidsbONf0y13MaZmZH5yQkcJTFSy19C_huy1XXaeY-rBE9Svn0KARHIpJ643GaVWcxmBcJ7xwL5xKXgLIft5XG3QGyAG4Z-w-h4hpIroF5IyLG1JoniWXwCOQAIEqEkXq5p-xOpwKPqykUuwSk_Mkcw/s320/13580504_1041796242555736_5200392096968700148_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="106" data-original-width="320" height="106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxf9M28GSTBdpbMJXHwe3C7Mqajbgd2W-79X-uidsbONf0y13MaZmZH5yQkcJTFSy19C_huy1XXaeY-rBE9Svn0KARHIpJ643GaVWcxmBcJ7xwL5xKXgLIft5XG3QGyAG4Z-w-h4hpIroF5IyLG1JoniWXwCOQAIEqEkXq5p-xOpwKPqykUuwSk_Mkcw/s1600/13580504_1041796242555736_5200392096968700148_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 90%;">That
is the beauty of this race. You don’t need to be <i>“in shape”</i> <i>(though
being prepared does have some major advantages)</i>, like making the decision to
run a marathon – it is a test of your willingness to suffer and fight through
adversity. It is a way to see yourself in a different light and trust there is
much more to you than the person in the mirror who may not have reached <i>(or is
still grasping for)</i> those goals you set for yourself years ago.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 90%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 90%;">Sure,
this may be a small step <i>(actually, a couple hundred of them)</i>, but who
is to judge? This is a yearly reminder that there is so much more to each one
of us. When I left for college in the latter part of the last century (<i>seriously,
guh</i>), my grandmother gave me a framed copy of the following and it has been
displayed in every dwelling I have had since:</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p><i><br />The Man or Woman in the Glass <br /><br />When you get what you want in your struggle for self<br />And the world makes you king for a day<br />Just go to the mirror and look at yourself<br />And see what that person has to say.<br /><br />For it isn’t your father, or mother, or husband or wife<br />Whose judgement upon you must pass<br />The person whose verdict counts most in your life<br />Is the one staring back from the glass.<br /><br />It’s the person to please – never mind all the rest<br />For it’s with you clear to the end<br />And you know you have passed the most dangerous test<br />If the person in the glass is your friend.<br /><br />You may fool the whole world down the pathway of years<br />And get pats on the back as you pass<br />But your final reward will be heartache and tears<br /><br />If you’ve cheated the person in the glass.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></i><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 90%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 90%;">For
the first time, I will be missing <i><a href="https://www.thebuckfifty.com/">The Buck Fifty</a> </i>in 2023. I’m jealous of
all of you who will be competing with one another - as well as yourselves - against
shear exhaustion, the pain, the heat, the cold, the elevation, the never-ending
straight stretches of Ross County asphalt and those damn grain elevator lights
that seem to get further & further away in the night sky the closer you get to them.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p>
<br /><i>“The woods are lovely, dark and deep,<br />But I have promises to keep,<br />And miles to go before I sleep,<br />And miles to go before I sleep.”</i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 90%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 90%;">Run
On, Friends!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p><br />Craig R. Simpson<br />Team: Traffic Panthers (2017-2022)Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-59199785468584866282022-08-29T15:25:00.004-04:002022-08-29T15:28:58.866-04:00Celebrating Year #3 with Cham-PAIN!<p>A <a href="https://www.boissetcollection.com/brands/buena-vista-winery/portfolio/la-victoire-brut-rose-champagne"><i>Buena Vista 'La Victoire' Brut Rose Champagne 750ML</i></a> was to arrive at our house and would assist my wife & I celebrate our third anniversary on August 25th. On the 23rd, I received details from UPS stating said bottle had arrived at their facility in nearby Columbus, Ohio and was scheduled to be delivered on Thursday, the 25th - which would be right on time. Though, I couldn't help but wonder why it would take two days to get to us from a location 30 minutes away. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4i4J61TgLX_CdLMY21oGT0JdFuP6gI5pSEo1fOuxHyp9oITHXbJsY2BR69lbaQaw7k53UGbPX4_FdAHBG60p9Ja4Z3VZ96CNPpo8n2NYjlj143pmg1VVXcjcfhzUOmR1DhbMDs_E-PNc8l11cwmm344F5BLnQi9w9w7FdlOsLReLSsp4O_DcwsqO3Fg/s410/BV_LaVictoireRose_410.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="410" data-original-width="120" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4i4J61TgLX_CdLMY21oGT0JdFuP6gI5pSEo1fOuxHyp9oITHXbJsY2BR69lbaQaw7k53UGbPX4_FdAHBG60p9Ja4Z3VZ96CNPpo8n2NYjlj143pmg1VVXcjcfhzUOmR1DhbMDs_E-PNc8l11cwmm344F5BLnQi9w9w7FdlOsLReLSsp4O_DcwsqO3Fg/s320/BV_LaVictoireRose_410.webp" width="94" /></a></div>A day later, I get an updated delivery time of the following day, Friday, Aug. 26th. Perturbed, but not defeated, at least it would be here soon to be enjoyed. My wife works from home and I was off on this Friday, caring for our six-month old. Near 5pm, I get an alert from UPS indicating the delivery time has been rescheduled for Monday, August. 29th. Now thoroughly annoyed, I check the online tracking app and see that not only had the bottle arrived in Columbus on the 23rd - but then also made it's way to the Atlantic Ocean <i>(New Jersey)</i> AND THEN a triumphant return to Columbus on the 25th and sent to another UPS facility in Marion, Ohio <i>(passing through my current city)</i> which is 20 minutes north of where we live and where I have worked fulltime for the last 10 years. <p></p><p>With my head about to explode, I give UPS a call. I'm told the Friday <i>(Aug. 26th)</i> delivery didn't happen due to a mechanical failure on the delivery truck that morning. I was only alerted to the delivery date change to Monday, the 29th, several hours after said mechanical failure. When asked why I wasn't alerted to the truck issues hours before <i>(of which I could have driven to the facility located in the city I have worked in for nearly everyday for a decade)</i>, I was simply told, <i>"We don't do that"</i>. I was also alerted that, for a fee, I could have the item dropped off at a UPS affiliate location and pick it up myself. <i>"Why would I pay a fee for a process that your company caused, or were responsible for?</i>", I asked. I received an answer loaded with jargon & double-speak I'm still trying to comprehend - hence, it was a customer service rep. who was simply doing her job of reading company issued gobbledygook from the frequently asked question document all CSRs have as a reference<i> (I've been there, and know it quite well) </i>and that a weekend delivery was not a possibility. </p><p>She then reiterated, that the <i>re-re-re-</i>rescheduled date of our Champagne would be Monday, the 29th when I'm at work and my wife will be home, but also preoccupied with work <i>(she is an online school teacher)</i>. Knowing this wasn't her fault, but yet irked beyond comprehension, I sarcastically thanked her for her time and hung up. </p><p>At work the following day, Saturday, the 27th, I get notification from UPS that a delivery attempt of said item took place at 10:30 that morning. I audibly blurted out a, <i>"What the F*ck!"</i> as I was lucky to be far enough away to not be heard by human, animal, insect or plant. On this Saturday, my wife and son had joined my mother-in-law on a park excursion as it was a fantastic day weather-wise here in Central Ohio. Their trip took place in the same time the <i>non-</i>delivery day-<i>delivery</i> took place and with no one there to sign for it, our Champagne would make it's way back to the Marion facility.</p><p>I call UPS, again, from work, now fully vexed and with an irrational need to want to drive the nearest, sharpest object I can find into my ear canal. I request an explanation as to why the Saturday delivery attempt took place when I was told, by a living & breathing person, that Saturday was not an option and Monday would be the delivery day - as well as by the UPS delivery app saying Monday was definitely the expected arrival day. This better informed CSR indicated that the previous representative was not aware the facility located in Marion DOES weekend deliveries as many of the UPS locations in and around the United States of America DO NOT. </p><p>The girl overly apologized and when asked if a re-delivery could take place later on this day when I would be at home, she said she would request but the possibility of it happening was slim to none. She also gave me the affiliate location drop-off option, though I just dropped my head and squeezed my eyes closed to force back the ever increasing inferno of disenchantment saying I wasn't going to pay for her company's lack of communication. She was very nice, saying she was there to listen as she completely understood why I was in the state I was in. I thanked her for her time, saying maybe my wife and I would be able to enjoy the bottle sometime within the next week, month or year or before it turned to a fine brut, pickling vinegar.</p><p>On Monday, the 29th, while at work I received a text just after the noon hour from L saying, <i>"It arrived!" </i>After all that had taken place, she half-jokingly asked if she should refrigerate it. To tell you the truth, I'm not sure if we should drink it or simply keep it as a momento of the weirdest anniversary celebration gift scenario we will most likely ever encounter.</p><p>So finally, a bottle of champagne that landed 30 minutes from us, then hit the casinos in Atlantic City for a day, returned to Columbus, made a day trip past my house to a closer facility, experienced car trouble, returned to the facility, made it's way to my unoccupied house, then back to that closer facility - 5 minutes from where I was working AT THAT TIME - to then wait to be delivered - again - four days after our anniversary, a full seven days after arriving within spitting distance of my house and two days prior to our actual anniversary.</p><p>That better be one damn tasty bottle of bubbly...</p>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-15203049624516782982022-04-27T11:44:00.002-04:002022-04-28T11:21:37.679-04:00Arriving Like an Armored Assault Anti-Aircraft RV<p>It is Spring again, everything old is renewed and we get to start over from where we left off last summer. Including another installment of let's make life as weird as possible.</p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6IWU1hUi1EmIvmErna0wNRs1UxPI8iQmNGcVeO4Rl--ZA8vxyASJkbOoBiyWccLKaH05hbyxi6TR5HyympkQscSXlo1eErH4rO4HMdYC_1jisaFiYCDDeJNkJsh5LORstro9bPGCGOLgC84J6dbM963ZPUC6oPoO0THuzeIz1jNYl396nhvmDUTSTkA/s213/277847240_3277708535820111_2748930893291411817_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="137" data-original-width="213" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6IWU1hUi1EmIvmErna0wNRs1UxPI8iQmNGcVeO4Rl--ZA8vxyASJkbOoBiyWccLKaH05hbyxi6TR5HyympkQscSXlo1eErH4rO4HMdYC_1jisaFiYCDDeJNkJsh5LORstro9bPGCGOLgC84J6dbM963ZPUC6oPoO0THuzeIz1jNYl396nhvmDUTSTkA/w320-h206/277847240_3277708535820111_2748930893291411817_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>The ground clearance is chest high on me, and I'm 6-3.</i></b></span><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Just after April Fools' Day, hanging out in our front room with our two month old son, I notice this giant vehicle coming up our street. Motorized modes of transportation go up and down our street all the time, but this one was slightly out of place and sounded like a tank. It stopped in front the neighbors who live across the street diagonally from us. The neighbors, as well as the vehicle's occupants, congregated in the street and were inspecting and pointing around as if attempting to come to a conclusion on some particular aspect of life.<p></p><p>Now way to curious to ignore, I get the 60-day old Russell to fall into a deep slumber to make room for my voyeurism. This oversized box truck was too big to back into their driveway and they seemed to be pondering where to safely park it. </p><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-rQl9wUq6lanSq7bRAr7mXZZbdF4Xmxn44Y227FkRo3a8TW4wOERsVNcoRIMTN_R_5ls1Fe3VA4RrDTarcGBNHiF073O_xWhVaHVJgw2cQweAoZZQLMM6X6gPkLblCIEFpQc_yG03fDUeHdL5qGElxSp2ew3MQDtY_epxUIDqpqwrJM3FH2uJEFNkHA/s2048/278796406_752356375926765_5015260675813263584_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-rQl9wUq6lanSq7bRAr7mXZZbdF4Xmxn44Y227FkRo3a8TW4wOERsVNcoRIMTN_R_5ls1Fe3VA4RrDTarcGBNHiF073O_xWhVaHVJgw2cQweAoZZQLMM6X6gPkLblCIEFpQc_yG03fDUeHdL5qGElxSp2ew3MQDtY_epxUIDqpqwrJM3FH2uJEFNkHA/w150-h200/278796406_752356375926765_5015260675813263584_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>Soon, they are utilizing a telescopic pole saw to hack off several lower-level tree limbs coming off of the topiary in their front yard next to the street. This, I gathered, was the only way to rest the monstrosity on wheels in the street without blocking their driveway or other vehicles traveling along Elmwood Drive.<p></p>When L saw what was happening, she immediately then went google searching to discover this beaut was actually an upscale living quarters and sold for well over six figures, times two. It is the sort of thing you'd find - in my mind - being dropped into an area devastated by a nuclear disaster as temporary shelter.<div><br /></div><div>Nonetheless, the folks who landed it on our street on this day were simply visiting their friends (our neighbors) for a few days. The neighbor who lives directly across the street from us, and to the left of the home in the picture, sent us a text asking if we knew where the ridiculous armored assault vehicle came from. A day later, Rob informed us the anti-aircraft RV would be leaving the following Tuesday. He did have to ask the folks who live in the house that's actually attached to the ground on our street if they could avoid parking on the opposite of their traveling friends so as to allow for through traffic.</div><div><br /></div><div>Aside from the numerous city codes being violated, the obnoxious blocking of regular traffic and my inability to park in front of my house - we survived the four days of occupation by the traveler extremists.</div><div><br /></div><div>Other than that it has been a typical rain, snow, rain, warm, rain, breezy, rain, cold, rain, sun and more rain spring. Not to mention the sixth version of <a href="https://www.thebuckfifty.com/"><i>The Buck Fifty - Southern Ohio's 150 mile, 24 hour, 10 person team relay</i></a> to kick off the non-winter portion of 2022.</div><div><br /></div><div>Again this year, I would take the Van #1, Runner #2 position for team Traffic Panthers as we battle the streets, roads, paths and Appalachian foothills around Chillicothe, Ohio with more than 80 other teams.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: left; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s1600/Final+Sport.jpg" style="clear: left; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s200/Final+Sport.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><i>**We back EVERY pair with </i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><i><a href="https://shadyrays.com/pages/official-live-hard-warranty-overview" style="color: #de7008;">FREE Replacements</a> if Lost or Broken</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>**</i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: right; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s1600/DH4A7305.jpg" style="clear: right; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s200/DH4A7305.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b>**Each order also secures 11 meals </b></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b>to fight hunger through </b></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b><a href="http://fabackup.feedingamerica.org/optimized-homepage/?_ga=2.251139073.647855481.1504895789-1536808043.1504895789" style="color: #de7008;">Feeding America</a>**</b></i></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><b style="background-color: transparent;">We are an independent sunglasses company </b><span style="background-color: transparent;">for those who don't want to buy from a massive, faceless company that has been operating the same way for decades </span></b></div><div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><a href="http://shadyrays.com/" style="color: #de7008;">shadyrays.com</a></b></div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNbsHJvCu6PEDdY9xZUm6KKP-9S3bJdQYEC8SXSJwILE8DPNQUf2zMzCdAnLZtt_PwvBR0X-8P14RBq2lQzQLllhv1QwaAJGdaVNtyWmdJddo1XOL6NLwNKeG_XNS7dwCrrDZsS7vcXsf/s1600/shady+rays.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="123" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNbsHJvCu6PEDdY9xZUm6KKP-9S3bJdQYEC8SXSJwILE8DPNQUf2zMzCdAnLZtt_PwvBR0X-8P14RBq2lQzQLllhv1QwaAJGdaVNtyWmdJddo1XOL6NLwNKeG_XNS7dwCrrDZsS7vcXsf/s1600/shady+rays.png" /></a></div></div><div>We are scheduled to take off at 5pm on Friday afternoon with Eric leading the way. Unseasonably warm (well over 70) is what we are greeted with. Not that 70 is overly warm for April, but we've been running in typical Ohio spring weather the last few weeks - topping out 50 or so. This year is also a bit different with us leaving at a later time and with some faster teams so having some competition & company along the way would be few and far between. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJsHiL4mFLwrITf0h38_kAZ__f8AhC4jHn6obJrtAM-g_YhgxfHhKRZJSgy9mVVpA1v3O3E7iT5mOa9z_hQ7dFg7sVUkFbB3FWYS26Hy45WOCe6uVIKRXKhP_uHAMBd9JloaL--pzrcYSki8CAgtO8nJGHR_VmNcaF1nWxW8hy2RYvb3jozyCe1w0AOQ/s615/Leg%20%232.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="523" data-original-width="615" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJsHiL4mFLwrITf0h38_kAZ__f8AhC4jHn6obJrtAM-g_YhgxfHhKRZJSgy9mVVpA1v3O3E7iT5mOa9z_hQ7dFg7sVUkFbB3FWYS26Hy45WOCe6uVIKRXKhP_uHAMBd9JloaL--pzrcYSki8CAgtO8nJGHR_VmNcaF1nWxW8hy2RYvb3jozyCe1w0AOQ/s320/Leg%20%232.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I'm at Adena Mansion warming up and waiting for Eric to arrive. I'm well hydrated and continue loosening up in the shade. Just before Eric appears, a Bald Eagle flies overhead with a prey of some kind swaying in it's talons. It is humid and I'm now hoping that Eagle wouldn't be searching for me in the coming miles.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once I get the baton (5:55 pm), I race down Adena hill turn along the bike path and jet up Yaples Orchard. I'm feeling the incline, but I'm not overwhelmed. I pass a competitor at about three miles in, but that's it. There is no one I can see or chase. This left me to my own devices and going a little slower than I wanted on the backend. I did get passed by an elite squad member at around 6 miles and was able to eventually see other runners, but it was near the end of the route and I wouldn't be catching them. Though, the water left for runners by spectators along the trail at Maple Grove Prairie was greatly appreciated.</div><div><br /></div><div>I arrive at Hopewell Culture National Historic Park and hand off to Josh just before passing another runner. Overall, my times on the segments on the hilly portion were the best I have run on this route, but I slowed on the long straight stretch as the isolation killed my momentum with no one to track down. I covered the 7.32 miles and 308 feet of elevation in 50:21. Decent, but not my best time here.</div><div><br /></div><div>The next few checkpoints were a bit lonely as they would be full of teams when we arrived, but would would soon empty as their runners arrived and we waited on ours. A different perspective as compared to the past years. Finally, at the first van transition at Adena High School, we arrive with several other teams and after handing off to van #2 we head to Mark's house to chill for a couple of hours. I down some breakfast bake, a traditional van transition beer and relax for about 90 minutes before heading off again.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHZP0MNvRtgU4OLRBXI2IJjz85FxLm59SBUhHtBEu_yz01uO2kInfHlH9MqUYkIeBsbkbdo2T9KhSxA848oscTupRRNn2XrlpKXESRQTAxnJufYQ5YJpOxT3Dg2A5Qi9ixZKImhmg74CqZ5MclNfF7MUyGatyFO_uUqi376ZR4PnFIM7XsNJiRky6Yfg/s785/Leg%2012.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="785" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHZP0MNvRtgU4OLRBXI2IJjz85FxLm59SBUhHtBEu_yz01uO2kInfHlH9MqUYkIeBsbkbdo2T9KhSxA848oscTupRRNn2XrlpKXESRQTAxnJufYQ5YJpOxT3Dg2A5Qi9ixZKImhmg74CqZ5MclNfF7MUyGatyFO_uUqi376ZR4PnFIM7XsNJiRky6Yfg/s320/Leg%2012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div>We return to the next transition to take over for van #2 at the Kingston Grain Mill. Again, teams everywhere before slowly dwindling. Though, they seem to be around a bit longer now than before. Van #2 greets us and Chris arrives to hand off to Eric, our second go around begins.</div><div><br /></div><div>Zane Trace High School is our next stop and my second starting point. Here, it is nearly empty, only a handful of teams but other squads trickle in. Again, I'm warming up and it is warm but not hot as it was before. Excellent running weather and I'm hoping to redeem myself from a disappointing first route. Before too long, Eric arrives and with my headlamp and knuckle lights I take off.</div><div><br /></div><div>This time I'm out (1:31 am) in enough time to have someone to chase. It is a long straight stretch to start and I can focus on my competitor's safety lights bouncing in the night air on the horizon. I'm comfortable and satisfied with my leg turnover, the ability to focus on a subject and be blinded by the night sky from all distractors is a blessing in disguise. I can see I'm tracking him down and hardly notice my first mile was 5:51. Fast, but not too fast, as this is what happens when you get the chance to race against someone and not just yourself. </div><div><br /></div><div>He turns into Great Seal State Park where some nice elevation begins and I follow moments later, the same takes place as we turn left onto a muddy trail. There is no footing to speak of and the climbing is at a snail's pace. We cross over a park road and back onto a trail, I'm about 15 feet behind as we dodge roots, ruts & rocks. Suddenly he comes to a stop and steps aside, allowing me to go by. He looks to be in good shape and I wasn't all that close to him, so I'm trying to figure out why he let me pass. Then it hit me as I start to see route markers on trees more clearly. My headlamp and knuckle lights created much more of a line of sight than what his lights were, thus making our route more visible.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now with him on my tail, and the comfortable night air coaxing us along, I'm pushing through with relative ease. We turn through a lighted path to the baton exchange at a parking lot near the Sugarloaf Mountain Trailhead and handoff to Josh. I'm feeling exhilarated and satisfied. I cover the 3.38 miles and 282 feet of elevation in 24:03. At our van, I'm explaining what the dude I passed did and why I think we let me by and since it is in the wee hours of the morning - and sound travels - his voice from the van on the other side of the lot exclaims, <i>"That's EXACTLY what I did!" </i>Though he finished just behind me, I'm happy I caught him.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAJK11ueMBfl50plMvvrf0nF-Ui16HHfTgUGrCtz30h4xrxYkblTZph-eyyq6Pm1JRx7jqlyrrFEQJf8QYx48R0S44q2CMG9YXLWHO74b7MwzXbEY6yZgVdycyamWqDoz4EvwpdOFpHORoN_N1WBLzmmjUJcnlglHkJM5ymI6OThsuQLgwXcb8GJy2w/s320/Leg%2022.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="261" data-original-width="320" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZAJK11ueMBfl50plMvvrf0nF-Ui16HHfTgUGrCtz30h4xrxYkblTZph-eyyq6Pm1JRx7jqlyrrFEQJf8QYx48R0S44q2CMG9YXLWHO74b7MwzXbEY6yZgVdycyamWqDoz4EvwpdOFpHORoN_N1WBLzmmjUJcnlglHkJM5ymI6OThsuQLgwXcb8GJy2w/s1600/Leg%2022.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>As we head to the next checkpoint, we pass several emergency/medical personnel coming the opposite direction. Come to find out, on the leg Josh had just taken off on, a competitor had fallen on the rocky terrain and suffered a dislocated kneecap, unable to make it down the trail himself. Again, the checkpoint is loaded with vans, a sure sign we are gaining on some teams. This ends up being the case up through the next van transition at Walnut Creek Campground. Van #2 heads out again and we, again, head back to Mark's to chill for awhile.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Here I woof down to large pieces of the remaining breakfast bake and traditional transition beer. I get about 90 minutes of sleep before I wake myself up with anticipation of my next route. A wrong turn on the trail on this leg last year cost us quite a bit of time and I was eager to redeem myself. </div><div><br /></div><div>Eric was slow in getting up and since it is easy to get under his skin, I have Mark's Alexa device blare "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CjRas1yOWvo"><i>Still Loving You" by the Scorpions</i></a> and sing along with it in only the best way I know how - obnoxiously. Perturbed that he would be not getting his precious additional 15 minutes of sleep, I am greeted with a variety of f-bombs and related synonyms. His rant slowed down, but continued as we headed to the next transition at my alma mater, Southeastern High School.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here we meet back up with van #2 and nearly 30 other vans as we have officially caught up to the other Buck Fifty race nomads. Soon Chris arrives to hand off to Eric for the third and final time. As we leave Southeastern, Tom (a former Traffic Panther) and current race volunteer yells, <i>"There's my team!" </i>We jokingly let him know how we feel about his decision to stepdown from Buck Fifty competition. Headed to the checkpoint of my next run, we pass 20 to 30 runners and I'm happy to have more folks to track down. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5L-SyWosQ0-eHSh8cykKgG_rsPEPLJ8fAoYEdctAWELmf8zP8dPwVfATE-wwXlfR3bJ1TxTVwH63OK2wXELl7UQIMqTB7_FGH7hOCU7xJj7F_cVR1L9K5YL8J_obMSywQzfZO7uLLJveA1gYBX1RVU4mz5fbm4i7HzljzdhQjKVGJeIGES4-xf9undw/s1557/Inked279412239_5025702787514516_7001550118835553932_n_LI.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1557" data-original-width="1223" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5L-SyWosQ0-eHSh8cykKgG_rsPEPLJ8fAoYEdctAWELmf8zP8dPwVfATE-wwXlfR3bJ1TxTVwH63OK2wXELl7UQIMqTB7_FGH7hOCU7xJj7F_cVR1L9K5YL8J_obMSywQzfZO7uLLJveA1gYBX1RVU4mz5fbm4i7HzljzdhQjKVGJeIGES4-xf9undw/s320/Inked279412239_5025702787514516_7001550118835553932_n_LI.jpg" width="251" /></a></div>We get to Shelly & Sands Quarry just outside of my hometown of Richmond Dale and watch as teams roll in. I warm up by jogging around the quarry's giant piles of rock & sand. The sun is up and it's hazy, it is humid and will be getting hotter. Eric shows up and outruns a competitor at the checkpoint and I'm off for the third time (9:13 am) along Higby Road toward <a href="https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/outdoor/buckeye-trail"><i>The Buckeye Trail</i></a>. The gentleman directly behind me looks like he knows what he's doing, so I try to stay in front of him to at least the trailhead.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once onto the trail, the massive climbing begins. My lungs are on fire and my legs are rubbery, but soon I make a pass. As the terrain levels out, I trip and nearly face plant, but catch myself and bounce back up. Soon I make a few more passes, but the footsteps behind me are hard to ignore. When we get to a relatively level area, I wave him past. Continuing on, I again catch a rock and fall forward. I stop myself from crashing hard, and bounce back up a second time. The worn out legs are now struggling to pick the feet up off the ground.</div><div><br /></div><div>More competitors are passed, many of them walking as the elevation is hard to endure. I still, though, keep the dude who passed me within eyesight. I turn the correct way at the point of last year's wrong turn and soon find myself arriving at the checkpoint and pass off to Josh. I excitedly proclaim having picked off twelve competitors and celebrate the end of my assigned routes, covering the 5.76 miles and 784 feet of elevation in 49:25.</div><div><br />The next few checkpoints had us passing several teams before handing off to van #2 for the final time. We head back to the start to get our cars, but instead of waiting for our team to finish. I, in an exhausted state, drove home instead of waiting for another two to three hours for the finish. By this time, it was well over 80 degrees, hot and uncomfortable. I needed to shower, eat, sleep and see my 11 week-old son, Russell. My task of 16.46 miles & 1,374 feet of climbing in about 20 hours was done for at least one more year. April 2023 will come faster than you can comprehend.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOv5ZP6G5tesex3rq8GBQyjiAd3G7SDozQ_j2v8J2o2LS0OyRw1SI_95LpelryokFs-m42wcV21NRq4kWCokfq9wyibQwP9zyjsgoAA84R4PTDooX-RKjAnZxUYkeSF4zPXMr1Po1gtawstjJRdnPknU0YJnBLima1-rpveanE-OSs3UWo7UsqbBDBtA/s526/279398808_10159905634824704_3489158959675669956_n.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="418" data-original-width="526" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOv5ZP6G5tesex3rq8GBQyjiAd3G7SDozQ_j2v8J2o2LS0OyRw1SI_95LpelryokFs-m42wcV21NRq4kWCokfq9wyibQwP9zyjsgoAA84R4PTDooX-RKjAnZxUYkeSF4zPXMr1Po1gtawstjJRdnPknU0YJnBLima1-rpveanE-OSs3UWo7UsqbBDBtA/w200-h159/279398808_10159905634824704_3489158959675669956_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>We did end up finishing with a team record time or 22:57:50, placing 18th out of 82 teams. In the mixed team category, we pulled in a fourth place finish out of 44 teams. And did it all with some familiar faces, as well as a mix of folks who were able to step in at the last moment when life simply got in the way. A big THANK YOU to my teammates:<i> Sarah, Lisa, Eli, Evette, Chris, Terrell, David G., Dustin, Mark, Josh, Dave B. and Eric.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>Things happen sometimes, and sometimes it is for the better. Speaking of, if you happen to get your hands on this year's race guide (which was outstanding by the way) you should turn to the very last page. Just a quick reminder that change is good.</div><div><br /></div><div>So we have completed a half dozen Buck Fifty races and it seems this event has become our annual signal that summer is on the horizon. With this past weekend's summer-like temperatures, I can now see myself on a sandy beach nestled against a cool body of water or on majestic mountainside letting the warm breeze release everything trivial. The air, the water - whether fresh or salty - may it forever be your Chlorine...</div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJnQBXmZ7Ek"><b><i>Twenty One Pilots - Chlorine</i></b></a></p><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Sippin' on straight chlorine,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Let the vibe slide over me,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>This beat is a chemical, beat is a chemical,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>When I leave don't save my seat,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I'll be back when it's all complete,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The moment is medical, moment is medical.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Loving what I'm tasting,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Venom on my tongue,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Dependent at times.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Poisonous vibrations,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Help my body run,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I'm running for my life.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Fall out of formation,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I plan my escape,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>From walls they confined.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Rebel red carnation,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Grows while I decay,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I'm running for my life.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Hide you in my coat pocket,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Where I kept my rebel red,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I felt I was invincible,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You wrapped around my head,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Now different lives I lead,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>My body lives on lead,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The last two lines may read,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Incorrect until said,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The lead is terrible in flavor,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But now you double as a paper maker,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I despise you sometimes,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I love to hate the fight,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And you in my life is like...</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I'm so sorry I forgot you,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Let me catch you up to speed,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I've been tested like the ends of,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>A weathered flag that's by the sea.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Can you build my house with pieces?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I'm just a chemical.</i></div><p style="text-align: center;"><i><u><b>Photos courtesy of The Traffic Panthers</b></u></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><u><b><br /></b></u></i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><u></u></i></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9M2GD8F2GECm2SYF8hd2y9B-ak3K7jkGAvV1FkOrykMnF_FubYZ0mkg1MoosUUgONUl02nL28QunH_76PE2ODPJ2hFW63_jUopg02JfDwI8XESO720xSyy3BgnvsZCW6fNVVguOVkL8hmUmy7DkkLtYFqBI1Ul4qJjZpW27mpZgIY9krZaWsjlczYDg/s2048/279255748_10217126441193443_2418726929234265751_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9M2GD8F2GECm2SYF8hd2y9B-ak3K7jkGAvV1FkOrykMnF_FubYZ0mkg1MoosUUgONUl02nL28QunH_76PE2ODPJ2hFW63_jUopg02JfDwI8XESO720xSyy3BgnvsZCW6fNVVguOVkL8hmUmy7DkkLtYFqBI1Ul4qJjZpW27mpZgIY9krZaWsjlczYDg/s320/279255748_10217126441193443_2418726929234265751_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">A Buck Fifty finisher beer</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i><u><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKq5mBXp1d3n5wAFGfnyzAvQqQ5tWRj3cXKu2KkxZbPOUBTvNUtF3ofbdH04RR-MuuM7WzQOaZSKX9lkXS45qL6btdxLliis8dDChTrVUvJeReLih4j5Nik1oNzdWQySldhZPuTFYuEfcUA9kBQWJYbkcLemL3EhRthS5xO1RNGy3YlrBluHFwjbMIcg/s2048/279210091_10217126438473375_5162519569118849052_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1844" data-original-width="2048" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKq5mBXp1d3n5wAFGfnyzAvQqQ5tWRj3cXKu2KkxZbPOUBTvNUtF3ofbdH04RR-MuuM7WzQOaZSKX9lkXS45qL6btdxLliis8dDChTrVUvJeReLih4j5Nik1oNzdWQySldhZPuTFYuEfcUA9kBQWJYbkcLemL3EhRthS5xO1RNGy3YlrBluHFwjbMIcg/s320/279210091_10217126438473375_5162519569118849052_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Traffic Panthers Van #2</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9LVmLEYTLRKMpPhSP6UxLDtsOfRlXUANtZSuLyGqqX5E9D6mxScoTqwBycwWEKU_iRv5FczvNfuLZoeT_99LalVwyourr-v4wHaIZCk3I8JZjaL-5cnOrKLTJGHyGszwpXXd2DazoQ_qFGcwrsUYPNghR7EvJDm1o7RECZQ7Yx1nOv1IuFoPcLt-5w/s2048/279148391_10217126445593553_5711631221079673553_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9LVmLEYTLRKMpPhSP6UxLDtsOfRlXUANtZSuLyGqqX5E9D6mxScoTqwBycwWEKU_iRv5FczvNfuLZoeT_99LalVwyourr-v4wHaIZCk3I8JZjaL-5cnOrKLTJGHyGszwpXXd2DazoQ_qFGcwrsUYPNghR7EvJDm1o7RECZQ7Yx1nOv1IuFoPcLt-5w/s320/279148391_10217126445593553_5711631221079673553_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Post Leg #2 finish</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBVIMIJOO0ub_Mev9KWFdIl6Zx49rZvArUvdlYkv7Obc0MZ3_ITq5EiZ_yQ2tZOfPjKzomoJLfKjuNDo-K3oipgd7I8YvBw0rS_wenIk3AhCDqQ-6Kdo4xcIwEEHTAfY6T0Rjy0uVzjkrHXp5HaW43Pi-V_Qj8ip1dHFdhp1od8y6Jg5J8h2wOSmFB2A/s2048/279096278_10217126439313396_372499544608722862_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBVIMIJOO0ub_Mev9KWFdIl6Zx49rZvArUvdlYkv7Obc0MZ3_ITq5EiZ_yQ2tZOfPjKzomoJLfKjuNDo-K3oipgd7I8YvBw0rS_wenIk3AhCDqQ-6Kdo4xcIwEEHTAfY6T0Rjy0uVzjkrHXp5HaW43Pi-V_Qj8ip1dHFdhp1od8y6Jg5J8h2wOSmFB2A/s320/279096278_10217126439313396_372499544608722862_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Most of the Traffic Panthers</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></u></i><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><u><br /></u></i></div><i><u><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJdIy8u9N9k8Qjgwtlny4JScLJP1kXrIgoqWEW8AdnXHQYf1a3bjAXGH4cw5l-PIfucsy3kRiT9lMUbs9JMAtybhSlCQIkMh0eJ6v-tYd6CrwS_x6OvjpsZcMgKjclQfxJjQsKKqlF4_WExKrgoH6IuafIcxkDxWTH0ShoLD_madxhWkwQtKXsL5Pzvg/s2048/278909676_722214608798732_5991027378971615477_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJdIy8u9N9k8Qjgwtlny4JScLJP1kXrIgoqWEW8AdnXHQYf1a3bjAXGH4cw5l-PIfucsy3kRiT9lMUbs9JMAtybhSlCQIkMh0eJ6v-tYd6CrwS_x6OvjpsZcMgKjclQfxJjQsKKqlF4_WExKrgoH6IuafIcxkDxWTH0ShoLD_madxhWkwQtKXsL5Pzvg/s320/278909676_722214608798732_5991027378971615477_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Transition beer #1</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3uL5IhU_sqUYErgjKx2rEJd29RK5VTdxHH3-HY8VTrNyB-t2Ag_CxPZUoIGaqCczrhES6bSU-F3LqHgDk5ZBest79gIZMPmYyrHHxHlqttAdht710hjXaWs2d4wPpm13A3L6VkyS9cuHpcaJtK8BLfhvltKAJWqtSUpYbB4FRhzuRFbgFQyfP3pAVfg/s206/278235979_1128561071259989_116857822424816459_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="206" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3uL5IhU_sqUYErgjKx2rEJd29RK5VTdxHH3-HY8VTrNyB-t2Ag_CxPZUoIGaqCczrhES6bSU-F3LqHgDk5ZBest79gIZMPmYyrHHxHlqttAdht710hjXaWs2d4wPpm13A3L6VkyS9cuHpcaJtK8BLfhvltKAJWqtSUpYbB4FRhzuRFbgFQyfP3pAVfg/s1600/278235979_1128561071259989_116857822424816459_n.jpg" width="206" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Transition beer #2</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><br /></b></u><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqEWBYkKQdt9Z4CvFPHzzBoaogObe1_rsrG6K_zUWOu5q7F8lsshhXUNkeTYpW54ox5XDI9o25aVplXugGlqMgWo5AvyWAi5ds5aFEU3WgoPMax1VXEeqEeIk63kXCmJlDNud0GXAfeHZQsTLyhfVqRvDelo4EEF4wY8EiCHqXTBP9nnlOGFsfV37WHA/s2048/279131577_10217126386432074_4706908540050795798_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqEWBYkKQdt9Z4CvFPHzzBoaogObe1_rsrG6K_zUWOu5q7F8lsshhXUNkeTYpW54ox5XDI9o25aVplXugGlqMgWo5AvyWAi5ds5aFEU3WgoPMax1VXEeqEeIk63kXCmJlDNud0GXAfeHZQsTLyhfVqRvDelo4EEF4wY8EiCHqXTBP9nnlOGFsfV37WHA/s320/279131577_10217126386432074_4706908540050795798_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Traffic Panthers, Van #1</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></i><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFFMuhBUvTsNH91LQ_edWRIK1bTi52V1qpCH1kWCYE9cGCnst8EuCGPyCcxVxlXtTRjtTtofnGoLueqkD1I5gJznhwsf92bGikt3EE65q4eEAz-So4ybqBk34GJl5oYAL0OQx8GFOJyaX49sQ73c7i0xptWyDNNT_6xYYoFCDNK6aNw_sWhoz-UqdAuQ/s2048/278846543_1393603144423547_7232064088176264541_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFFMuhBUvTsNH91LQ_edWRIK1bTi52V1qpCH1kWCYE9cGCnst8EuCGPyCcxVxlXtTRjtTtofnGoLueqkD1I5gJznhwsf92bGikt3EE65q4eEAz-So4ybqBk34GJl5oYAL0OQx8GFOJyaX49sQ73c7i0xptWyDNNT_6xYYoFCDNK6aNw_sWhoz-UqdAuQ/s320/278846543_1393603144423547_7232064088176264541_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Russell!</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDEkZ5ISIy3EnFOH2WLuL_Am2sy2xFOybIxzKJFI7TjpoqMvreb8hkDkd4xDBHcBVQFha5jWkg9HF7UVyR_RjXRplTTwReUN3XifAsVjRspzSs2OU39f1qPyNFtN4ATYu7a-h2KTOHRFSISMaDvVGzlQ9Sc_B2buGKAebNMqKEr1sfxDItu4yHGE342w/s2048/279146225_10217126441713456_6101559287501075286_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDEkZ5ISIy3EnFOH2WLuL_Am2sy2xFOybIxzKJFI7TjpoqMvreb8hkDkd4xDBHcBVQFha5jWkg9HF7UVyR_RjXRplTTwReUN3XifAsVjRspzSs2OU39f1qPyNFtN4ATYu7a-h2KTOHRFSISMaDvVGzlQ9Sc_B2buGKAebNMqKEr1sfxDItu4yHGE342w/s320/279146225_10217126441713456_6101559287501075286_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">It's called progress....</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIyd5VHtEkNtJ1Wfl9-Mgn98-eJEUI72ecYuscFF-plN4j98nkrZNmDFwPyL9BBCVT3dsnlf1tPfeE4Lsek9QACZQuL5PaXRrhdDHFp2eZPyV3WzHB40AWtNHMk6aP6tWXjEHRKeXezRdv2KZUyUlQeCn9vaxhqSdPz07-PWGE_NSa75mwpXbQYkFtpA/s701/279152070_416607313806395_2756663805949688666_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="526" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIyd5VHtEkNtJ1Wfl9-Mgn98-eJEUI72ecYuscFF-plN4j98nkrZNmDFwPyL9BBCVT3dsnlf1tPfeE4Lsek9QACZQuL5PaXRrhdDHFp2eZPyV3WzHB40AWtNHMk6aP6tWXjEHRKeXezRdv2KZUyUlQeCn9vaxhqSdPz07-PWGE_NSa75mwpXbQYkFtpA/s320/279152070_416607313806395_2756663805949688666_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">This is how you celebrate the day after</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></b></i><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlNMB8p97QFbPC5g_wHrtofzPJg8Ls1EH_IkxXHUkKNihTaDfz-L6tZCVHaCqwvbkuzSk1lU0VheEzlx2SACXS_IqNmlQnfty9PC2HKF-T1WPXYQhEZQC90hbu6GUOPf4MaRxL_g-UgmLbhz-nW6-vAhfpVq3uU8ZB31spAkovrrycMCvCjwPutMAenQ/s2048/279093481_10159899989904704_4913631669690751719_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlNMB8p97QFbPC5g_wHrtofzPJg8Ls1EH_IkxXHUkKNihTaDfz-L6tZCVHaCqwvbkuzSk1lU0VheEzlx2SACXS_IqNmlQnfty9PC2HKF-T1WPXYQhEZQC90hbu6GUOPf4MaRxL_g-UgmLbhz-nW6-vAhfpVq3uU8ZB31spAkovrrycMCvCjwPutMAenQ/s320/279093481_10159899989904704_4913631669690751719_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Finishing Leg #12 at Great Seal State Park</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></b></i><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbfFzcrXrDJazeNhUYHOKyp_d49NJO98bbfKX1r0u24VsnZois6e6Fj3Bsn_1cGPbFMDbmOjD895OMSK74QP4PS_8ZUEF0IwsdMl3ifCnzjugPvts_clizmNzuJHVNWoeVcon42SwYMb3U5e2y-2YCxPjC859eW7b6b5do96vI3gQdhw2rtAxYs_54A/s320/279095286_10159899989554704_2318227935561967006_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbfFzcrXrDJazeNhUYHOKyp_d49NJO98bbfKX1r0u24VsnZois6e6Fj3Bsn_1cGPbFMDbmOjD895OMSK74QP4PS_8ZUEF0IwsdMl3ifCnzjugPvts_clizmNzuJHVNWoeVcon42SwYMb3U5e2y-2YCxPjC859eW7b6b5do96vI3gQdhw2rtAxYs_54A/s2048/279095286_10159899989554704_2318227935561967006_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></b></i></a></div><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGgybRj7nPl6zsML0LrGB2P9qaqEAM-Xz0yl3cBLuXEIWuhxDg8AzDT5jZoB2Lf9dUM0toqxJ8jlZ7cwQW93kJLdozc9JjOV-zD0kA68F2YoLlhvciIuSFe09-XUM-psKenM5iH1dFnjfq3pqx2wyf0mgRwZLrH1w4q9ZlATwDkO-WGdClAc95SgsERA/s2048/279173282_10159899989499704_7962367000341789918_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGgybRj7nPl6zsML0LrGB2P9qaqEAM-Xz0yl3cBLuXEIWuhxDg8AzDT5jZoB2Lf9dUM0toqxJ8jlZ7cwQW93kJLdozc9JjOV-zD0kA68F2YoLlhvciIuSFe09-XUM-psKenM5iH1dFnjfq3pqx2wyf0mgRwZLrH1w4q9ZlATwDkO-WGdClAc95SgsERA/s320/279173282_10159899989499704_7962367000341789918_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>At Southeastern High School early <br />Saturday, with coffee in each hand</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0VhRSlWxEkKDTgPRuPvWjZqbfsjVbf5UxKbHmipgNa-JaBdCIXOOZYMBxQUCdb7HxuFF2Q7wdZ5-7Sj_K3goKOv2pPXy3veJvInIToR1wDcec51PvjwCWdCGwaJLiioBbO1W4WHXA-k9j6mrpxvpUDgB766rLF-0QcZpSVBfgqxnZtUfPb9dMuYLDaw/s2048/279177717_10159899989874704_5898544207307981233_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0VhRSlWxEkKDTgPRuPvWjZqbfsjVbf5UxKbHmipgNa-JaBdCIXOOZYMBxQUCdb7HxuFF2Q7wdZ5-7Sj_K3goKOv2pPXy3veJvInIToR1wDcec51PvjwCWdCGwaJLiioBbO1W4WHXA-k9j6mrpxvpUDgB766rLF-0QcZpSVBfgqxnZtUfPb9dMuYLDaw/s320/279177717_10159899989874704_5898544207307981233_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Leg #22 finish, touting my 12 kills</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio02OfbGt4RH6rTJR7VtXm4D7yhIzfmlKUeQFJcMoX_IThS6YcjsB3endBPbLwfPDpK5mXL6qOR6MjopXEzyVcMCQb1sat9NTBpPlmFdZafWnHCcx1LXdZkCrEBG82fOjJO6DxrfPxL4wtRVH9eeAe44BtJ0pIB78Sqlwo-NLARaZSW1fuCGuy37zAWQ/s949/Before%20and%20after.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="949" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio02OfbGt4RH6rTJR7VtXm4D7yhIzfmlKUeQFJcMoX_IThS6YcjsB3endBPbLwfPDpK5mXL6qOR6MjopXEzyVcMCQb1sat9NTBpPlmFdZafWnHCcx1LXdZkCrEBG82fOjJO6DxrfPxL4wtRVH9eeAe44BtJ0pIB78Sqlwo-NLARaZSW1fuCGuy37zAWQ/s320/Before%20and%20after.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Before & After hilly Leg #22</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-17172170236167795382022-03-16T17:17:00.002-04:002022-03-30T17:58:24.692-04:00Chasing Change, Creating a Community<p>This is a story, a story about some concerned citizens who grew tired of seeing the destruction drugs could do to their town. Then, adding insult to injury, were forced to hear (& read) in the news about how downtrodden their <a href="http://visitchillicotheohio.com/"><i>scenic city nestled in the Appalachian foothills of Ross County</i></a> had become as a result. This, of course, could <i>not </i>have been further from the truth.</p><p>Their answer to turning things around and painting a better image, create a footrace. As the old adage goes, <i>truth is stranger than fiction</i>. Of course, there are far more details as to how and why this<i> </i>evolved, but even with full details the story would be tough to comprehend. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj76Bt2mU9OsBL5F6TnhlRI3hk5PHj0YL8GY7Jpo7B_X4QIUcnTS_SSQA86vhdC_yrnXN9bA5P0j7IeVNQLTi1zUST6Op2leI2Gz3KEjnFVMr9Ok1Oknje_0Lca5p0dKyh9O6_vP5FGwdmfbb0thedhpBta_YF5sI58V9K8pEGhCdebawn9hmS-e6zwiA=s960" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="319" data-original-width="960" height="106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj76Bt2mU9OsBL5F6TnhlRI3hk5PHj0YL8GY7Jpo7B_X4QIUcnTS_SSQA86vhdC_yrnXN9bA5P0j7IeVNQLTi1zUST6Op2leI2Gz3KEjnFVMr9Ok1Oknje_0Lca5p0dKyh9O6_vP5FGwdmfbb0thedhpBta_YF5sI58V9K8pEGhCdebawn9hmS-e6zwiA=s320" width="320" /></a></div>The result is the 150 mile, 24 hour, 10 runner, 2 driver team relay through 4 national and state parks circling the county where this so-called "downtrodden" city resides. Now, we find ourselves on the verge of the sixth installment of <i><a href="https://www.thebuckfifty.com/">The Buck Fifty</a></i> and it has become much more than an effort to combat community ills or even a competitive race of athletic nature.<p></p><p><i>The Buck Fifty, </i>in itself, is a running community of collaboration, partnership and connectedness. It is the relationships that have evolved from the shared sleep deprivation, exhaustion and support for one another as we chase the sunset and the sunrise, as well as the random glowing, flashing lights of our cohorts along streets, roads and trails under the cover of a Southern Ohio night.</p><p>There were 38 teams in the first event in 2017 and in year two <i>Runner's World</i> magazine wrote about the <i><a href="https://www.runnersworld.com/news/a19875154/running-for-an-addiction-free-future/">unique race and the purpose behind it</a> </i>- not to mention the number of teams jumped to 73. In 2020, prior to the start of the pandemic, we had well over 100 teams signed up. Though COVID pushed the race back to a July start, 54 of those teams still took part despite the summer heat - we persevered, we pulled through.</p><p>A <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/651531081689946"><i>Buck Fifty Runners Group</i></a> exists on Facebook where folks discuss ideas and collaborate on course clean-ups, trail marking or share details on meetups at particular checkpoints for casual group runs and anyone can take part. It brings camaraderie to the other 363 days of the year when the event isn't taking place. Whether one is slow, fast, in-shape, out of shape, it simply doesn't matter. At last check, there were more than 1,200 members.</p><p>Our team, The Traffic Panthers, was first cobbled together in the summer of 2016 with folks who competed together during their high school glory days around Chillicothe and others who happened to work with one another in some shape or form. The squad has evolved since then, but we have 23 current and former members and many of us continue to run together, or get together, when we can.</p><p>If you were to review a list of all the teams that have taken part in <i>The Buck Fifty </i>over the years, you will find nearly all of them - despite some new names and faces - return. We stay connected, we are a community.</p><p>The race comes to an end, but those relationships go well beyond our GPS devices or Strava stats. It doesn't matter if you run to socialize, to exercise, to compete with others or even compete with yourself. What matters is how <i>The Buck Fifty </i>brings thousands of people together to prove basic human camaraderie is just as alive today as it has ever been.</p><p>Having taken part in every installment of this event, one thing remains constant: the people. <i>The Buck Fifty</i> has evolved from an effort to overcome, to an event folks across the country look forward each year for the sport, the experience, the accomplishment and a sense of belonging.</p><p>The runners, the van drivers, the volunteers, the businesses, the residents, the schools, the safety and emergency personnel - we are an accidental running community centered around a 150 mile trail of purpose and progress. Ladies & Gentlemen, Welcome to <i>The Buck Fifty.</i></p>Craig R. Simpson<br />Team: Traffic Panthers (version 6.0)Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-27987879377208138332022-02-08T23:22:00.004-05:002023-02-10T10:53:26.127-05:00That's Going To Leave a Mark...<div>Discussing taking time off for Russell's arrival evolved into getting a month to get situated with having a child and L was able to work out getting about three months. The last week prior to the birth included a baby shower put together by my coworkers for L & I and since L's maternity leave was underway she was able to take part in the mid-day Wednesday soiree.
The festive decor included actual rocks (those used for library-related crafts) scattered around the plate of celebratory cookies. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0yj_WFXRIN0BgNlOZKyeFqD1LIwdaO811z8gD0bZw3QZzGigVlpBwgxT6G7WtFOs2gkTf2mIOHipMaK56UnvnCjzaRSH4oFCZG7fraP8qzn0zDPcI_PvEM2_-lYWvpSdy3TFvKq2Mh32xti7orXYtV6id7fRjx-d7eZMe3g7eqK-ZEmfRNbPlRd2UaQ=s469" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="380" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0yj_WFXRIN0BgNlOZKyeFqD1LIwdaO811z8gD0bZw3QZzGigVlpBwgxT6G7WtFOs2gkTf2mIOHipMaK56UnvnCjzaRSH4oFCZG7fraP8qzn0zDPcI_PvEM2_-lYWvpSdy3TFvKq2Mh32xti7orXYtV6id7fRjx-d7eZMe3g7eqK-ZEmfRNbPlRd2UaQ=w162-h200" width="162" /></a></div>My paternity leave was to then begin at the end of this week, but an ice storm that Wednesday afternoon encased everything in ice and the snow storm the following day dumped about six inches on top - thus, closing the library Thursday & Friday. So my paternity leave began two days ahead of time. It was fun pounding away at the ice and snow to clear the driveway and free our cars from their ice cocoons on day one, then shoveling it all again the following day. If anything, our cats enjoyed the constant human interaction.</div><div><br /></div><div>During the de-icing of our cars we came away with on unexpected benefit. A couple of years ago, frustrated after an argument <i>(we don't remember what it was about)</i> - L released her pent up negative energy by punching the backside of her car around the trunk area. Unfortunately, she hit it hard enough to leave a fist-sized dent. </div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYnUG8co-N50OBi3aavEYOfA4T-weoJ8cGsyclGs-Jc_xCgZIF18giLUltZ46_fMXIrgNJemln_pfTzW7N3MqAJTwPBCUFDMs8ZGqEjgGQ0IYqF3dAeIdC8haf-dFVwDM1imB2PV3gI7HUPOgYfglBZYTzCt5BxJJjo2tiReNq0ZQnrvhi4C6CGRKN8g=s417" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="313" data-original-width="417" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjYnUG8co-N50OBi3aavEYOfA4T-weoJ8cGsyclGs-Jc_xCgZIF18giLUltZ46_fMXIrgNJemln_pfTzW7N3MqAJTwPBCUFDMs8ZGqEjgGQ0IYqF3dAeIdC8haf-dFVwDM1imB2PV3gI7HUPOgYfglBZYTzCt5BxJJjo2tiReNq0ZQnrvhi4C6CGRKN8g=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Five inches of snow, on top of an </span></i></b></div><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">inch of ice.</span></i></b></div></td></tr></tbody></table><b></b><i></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span>Fast forward to the aftermath of the February 2022 ice storm, I'm banging on our cars just hard enough to break up the ice to allow for an easy removal. A couple of areas needed a few additional whacks and to our surprise one of those hits with a bit more <i>mmmph</i> actually popped out the dent left by L's iron fist way back when. Upon hearing this great news, L said she had only told her brother of how the dent occurred because she was embarrassed and had previously feigned ignorance when asked about it.</div><div><br /></div><div>On Saturday, I squeezed in a 3.1 mile run to suffice the <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/SouthHaven/BreaktheIce5KandFrostyDash?remMeAttempt="><i>Break the Ice 5k</i></a> virtual race. The in-person race takes place in South Haven, Michigan during the <a href="https://www.southhavenmi.com/pages/IceBreaker"><i>Ice Breaker Festival</i></a> we have attended each year since 2019. Though we couldn't get there this year with the pregnancy just days away from completion, but signing up for the virtual race meant we would still get the coveted SWAG sent to us. I didn't run all that fast since the ice and snow made for less than stellar conditions, but it was nice to take part from afar. The full sun helped to defeat the near-single digit temps as well. #HShive #mettlemonday</div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4SfKCK_8Xlqqf0wJPRKSbRdJyat3argFnK1V5bB6Ae9RA5mSHvjVNu2Od4nEccWnXF_cv8gIVSKRtV9lYJ9eB-NzuFRvPKI-3viYJHONHnTjaEm3FpQtGwj9J8QeZUYxf2nXwCJ96uYVN3VE7il81O3EbO9g9Xs3PYaQ9uxqMEvqexnmJUzw5FjWXfQ=s414" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="311" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4SfKCK_8Xlqqf0wJPRKSbRdJyat3argFnK1V5bB6Ae9RA5mSHvjVNu2Od4nEccWnXF_cv8gIVSKRtV9lYJ9eB-NzuFRvPKI-3viYJHONHnTjaEm3FpQtGwj9J8QeZUYxf2nXwCJ96uYVN3VE7il81O3EbO9g9Xs3PYaQ9uxqMEvqexnmJUzw5FjWXfQ=w150-h200" width="150" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Limoncello cookies,</span></i></b></div><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">chocolate biscotti </span></i></b></div><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">& pizzelles</span></i></b></div></td></tr></tbody></table><b></b><i></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><b></b><i></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span>We then celebrated L's birthday by picking up some pastries I ordered from <a href="https://www.oldmanciacchi.com/"><i>Old Man Ciacchi's Italian Bakery</i></a>, a local couple who run a bakery from their home. I highly recommend the Limoncello cookies, but everything they make is excellent. This was then followed by breakfast at the <i>Sunbury Grill</i> as L had been craving a hearty breakfast without the whole "healthy" thing getting in the way. We spent the rest of the day at her parent's watching the Olympics and playing her brother's <i>Civilization</i> board game till midnight. On the way home, L teared-up a bit realizing the next time we visit her parents she - herself - would be a mom.</div><div><br /></div><div>Despite being tired from the long Saturday, L didn't sleep well as Russell was moving all over the place. The movement was similar to when he turned the opposite direction the week before, but we think he was just getting excited or making sure his bags were packed for the upcoming change of scenery. The Sunday was also the arrival of several things we had ordered, or were sent to us, for the baby. One of those things may have been a Bengals onesie complete with beanie and bib - the poor boy has to be ready for the Super Bowl next weekend, right?!</div><div><br /></div><div>We stayed up late, again, watching the Olympics Sunday night and were, again, greeted with blue sky & sunshine Monday morning. As L stayed in bed, I took care of the cats and wandered into Russell's room, gawking out the window into the backyard to see the sun bouncing off the snow, birds taking turns visiting the feeder as well as this past December's Christmas Tree lying just below it and a feisty red squirrel protecting it's territory by chasing away it's bushy, gray brethren. </div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjOjqIIlmG6jrG6mMre_01FRec5d2C2Y2A_QgXS6TxsndhLzUD0nPZE3lJ8O8qiixfNNtslqGgtfXjbGHbBUy-hp2t8afq6PJnXH4WM2SDK9GcQysb4DRHeqmNdOG8O963Gqcs2ENkln-y4ilw_t5-vgtdWvJnYHmz5DaiuNxKuUiIzDYaeUOS99t5QUw=s417" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="313" data-original-width="417" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjOjqIIlmG6jrG6mMre_01FRec5d2C2Y2A_QgXS6TxsndhLzUD0nPZE3lJ8O8qiixfNNtslqGgtfXjbGHbBUy-hp2t8afq6PJnXH4WM2SDK9GcQysb4DRHeqmNdOG8O963Gqcs2ENkln-y4ilw_t5-vgtdWvJnYHmz5DaiuNxKuUiIzDYaeUOS99t5QUw=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">A portion of Russell's room</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><b></b><i></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span>Sipping on a cup of coffee, I couldn't help but come to the realization this would be the last day we would <i>NOT</i> be parents. Looking around R.O.K.S' soon-to-be occupied room, I laugh at the fact I'm going to be a first-time dad at 46 and - <i>holy crap</i> - we really need to organize the piles of collected baby stuff & supplies lying in the crib. </div><div><br /></div><div>Making her way out of bed, L's to-do list starts with calling our landlord and inquiring as to why the rent on our duplex would be going up another 10% (<i>just short of 20% total the last two years</i>). Hearing the frustration in her voice, she was not happy with the answer of <i>"this coincides with the recommendation of the independent appraiser we hired."</i> Concisely & calmly giving the person on the other end of the line a piece of her mind, L then hangs up. Now angrily spouting how wrong this is to the atmosphere around her, I interrupt the diatribe with this is not the time to get herself cranked up.</div><div><br /></div><div>Getting her to relax and focus more on the to-do list to prepare for tomorrow, we agree that once we are settled with having a baby to care for we would then begin the process of looking for a home to buy. This, of course, would be months from now but still a little disappointing that <a href="https://m.facebook.com/CRAIGnBLAZER17/"><i>The Fermented Firefly</i></a> would be changing locations a little sooner than we had hoped - but good things do have to come to an eventual end: <i>"We'd get sick on too many cookies, but ever so much sicker on no cookies at all." ~ Sinclair Lewis</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhm9yubim_XfmLtWxGDQfffZe4e5kRjy8mwNBIiNmy7lyu4UJbCHjKe_QIqU79QtQG_ekuyI8eUf-Ify8aYI27pE7UPBDRrRqHZNDecXYeK_mTRZBSPtZ7BFKPVZEAdvoS-YhKjmM0WNzw5jNXt9txvlL4z7Oza-DDpa53dlZVTCdnjzPc83ugxhNizpw=s414" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="311" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhm9yubim_XfmLtWxGDQfffZe4e5kRjy8mwNBIiNmy7lyu4UJbCHjKe_QIqU79QtQG_ekuyI8eUf-Ify8aYI27pE7UPBDRrRqHZNDecXYeK_mTRZBSPtZ7BFKPVZEAdvoS-YhKjmM0WNzw5jNXt9txvlL4z7Oza-DDpa53dlZVTCdnjzPc83ugxhNizpw=w150-h200" width="150" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Headed out the door at 7am<br />to extract Russell.</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table>We were up at 6am, the cats knew something was up as bags were stacked at the door, we loaded the car, took a deep breath, I downed a quick espresso and we drove the five minutes to Grady Memorial Hospital just as the sun was rising. The parking lot was relatively empty and so was the hospital itself, but when we were escorted to our room there as a parade of nurses, physicians and medical personnel. Pre-operation steps get underway, awakening the butterflies for the both of us, well-wishing text messages began to chime in and soon I found myself in scrubs from head-to-toe....this was really happening.</div><div><br /></div><div>A description of what would take place from here on out was detailed, then a nervous L was wheeled to the operating room - leaving me pacing in the room by myself searching for some sort of sanity. Soon a nurse pokes her head in coaxing me to follow and into a small prep area outside of the operating room. I wait, again, as the time is almost there and when finally beckoned - L is displayed on a table, covered in sheets and surrounded by what seemed to be every medical professional in the building.</div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdzmaCmKzZHIinFTQVIuRIqLUZuO8-txje0VljZigoQNfWvBNAMtbHY_QekL2Sac_cE-iQczv7Ttf_RNMHjRq2_92GcoohoGP5okEmR4aqW2D-TLuGZ4POixJN2ENMvsN5klde9gUGST6mtTD1XTjQl8gHcSqytoEXRluR_Fmro9sI5lIIlEwRA1tnZw=s417" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="417" data-original-width="311" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdzmaCmKzZHIinFTQVIuRIqLUZuO8-txje0VljZigoQNfWvBNAMtbHY_QekL2Sac_cE-iQczv7Ttf_RNMHjRq2_92GcoohoGP5okEmR4aqW2D-TLuGZ4POixJN2ENMvsN5klde9gUGST6mtTD1XTjQl8gHcSqytoEXRluR_Fmro9sI5lIIlEwRA1tnZw=s320" width="239" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>R.O.K.S - shaking his fist at me <br />moments after birth.</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table>I sit on a stool next to her head which is poking out from behind a sheet screen, grab her hand and the procedure begins. We are given details as to what is taking place during the procedure, shielded by the work itself. We make fun, nervous small talk as she tries to ignore the pushing, squeezing and pressure being issue to her lower half. Before we know it, were told he has been removed from his human cocoon. A quick glance over the sheet and I see a tiny, purply, wet alien-like person held above the table with his tissue tether dangling below him. He isn't crying much, but rather is making annoyed squeaks similar to those made by the angry squirrels that take over our backyard.</div><div><br /></div><div>Then the waterworks begin, L is crying and I'm a complete mucusy mess. The boy is brought over to meet his mom for the first time, then is placed into the warmer for post-op screening. I'm staring threw the waterfall of tears at this little person with breech birth legs sticking straight up into the air, being poked and prodded by nurses. As the medical personnel disperses, this tiny hand grips my finger and these steely blue eyes glare back - likely wondering what the hell just took place....<i> I'm right there with you, brother.</i></div><div><br /></div><div>For a lack of a better phrase, L is stitched back together and we - along with an awesome hospital staff - welcomed the 7 pounds, 7 ounces and 19 inches of Russell Orland Kidder Simpson to the world at 9:52am on Tuesday, February 8th. For this one day, if ever there was one, all was right with the world.</div><div><br /></div><div>So here we are, the two of us has become three - ending an era and starting a whole new chapter with stories to tell, mistakes to make, discoveries to uncover and a family to administer. It's all hands <i>(and paws)</i> on deck, for C, L, R.O.K.S, Whiskey & Jameson are about to begin....<i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJmRH_OkAA8">Weezer - Beginning Of The End</a><br /><br />Knocking on my door they tell me it's time to go on<br />Last check in the mirror to see if anything's wrong<br />The writing's up on the wall<br />A warning shot to them all<br /><br />My head is spinning, it's the beginning of the end<br />The people freak out when I walk out there, so scared<br />My head is spinning, it's the beginning of the end<br />The people freak out when I walk out there, so scared<br /><br />Nostradamus predicted a bomb would drop<br />And all our guitars will be humming in old pawn shops<br />Watch us brush off the dust, in heavy metal we trust<br />Then kick back and read The Sunday Times<br /><br />My head is spinning, it's the beginning of the end<br />The people freak out when I walk out there, so scared<br /><br />Fifteen hundred thousand years<br />Wouldn't be enough to dry these tears<br />I'll still be here hanging on, and on, and on<br />Things will never be the same<br />Save the pieces of your brain<br /><br />My head is spinning, it's the beginning of the end<br />The people freak out when I walk out there, so scared<br />My head is spinning, it's the beginning of the end<br />The people freak out when I walk out there, so scared </i><br /></div><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><div><i></i><i></i><i></i><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcPPN6RV3WQ5g1IXaW3r-SOz6UtDTvpBQZ9l1YOEyRhqUG_Bo9DTMHZ1e09d9M5a8pwvH3bJ2LcURr_d2wXJuNFNk_6e3l6UMoTzQGHHgoQ28Z5OkNgAnXyi463ACurh9-7mRJCFtGeiU-gWXIXifdeHlObLbj5Otu80tgVQfbbo1ie1028lQHKhsiyw=s414" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="311" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcPPN6RV3WQ5g1IXaW3r-SOz6UtDTvpBQZ9l1YOEyRhqUG_Bo9DTMHZ1e09d9M5a8pwvH3bJ2LcURr_d2wXJuNFNk_6e3l6UMoTzQGHHgoQ28Z5OkNgAnXyi463ACurh9-7mRJCFtGeiU-gWXIXifdeHlObLbj5Otu80tgVQfbbo1ie1028lQHKhsiyw=w150-h200" width="150" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">My boy, the Bengal fan!</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><b></b><i></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjC-BdsdAPzwCXX-4LXWkVDS3KhX7EmhE3OlwyoWxCJLUh-Ti3ZxgWtSQ3QHfgvZOs7jlG_XoBr4W0w5-i3SGkVpGQ18zSlV6NtdjERBVKXVMv0c_zgjnK6pdz8USq7umgII70jPc-9iQK4XE6OOpFd1n-7N1bDuGTAA6YzgGlpNmJR--Ths0WliiHuFw=s417" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="313" data-original-width="417" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjC-BdsdAPzwCXX-4LXWkVDS3KhX7EmhE3OlwyoWxCJLUh-Ti3ZxgWtSQ3QHfgvZOs7jlG_XoBr4W0w5-i3SGkVpGQ18zSlV6NtdjERBVKXVMv0c_zgjnK6pdz8USq7umgII70jPc-9iQK4XE6OOpFd1n-7N1bDuGTAA6YzgGlpNmJR--Ths0WliiHuFw=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Highly recommended!</b></span></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><b></b><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEilkFTViT29DnzXfEO5ynzR7TTnpnTjCjZsyDGMlJZ85ZS33J-VrbkejItXbI9z01GIbTZ3ooz3vTzws99vZlEVUuk2de1G01zlFDIoHHlPo0MJLEf1K5dtd_xWYKaBKABJWu6yfGPFzFhsV9vba5K-mAi0UBlExe8JlOHa1BtiCvbmf_0xJBIA63m5uQ=s960" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEilkFTViT29DnzXfEO5ynzR7TTnpnTjCjZsyDGMlJZ85ZS33J-VrbkejItXbI9z01GIbTZ3ooz3vTzws99vZlEVUuk2de1G01zlFDIoHHlPo0MJLEf1K5dtd_xWYKaBKABJWu6yfGPFzFhsV9vba5K-mAi0UBlExe8JlOHa1BtiCvbmf_0xJBIA63m5uQ=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Jameson & Whiskey chillin' in </span></i></b></div><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">the sun, unaware of the</span></i></b></div><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">forthcoming human noise maker.</span></i></b></div></td></tr></tbody></table><b></b><i></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhl8ISxqqGAQQkHPpxyNv5HM_-7yADmmel9_buPb7R6jRtFjIP9zeYLvSGvtD7SC21YwmKP63XUgeAMTAwOeBgQxOCsqdO6EnfOk3oI_BmeuTLGPAPAGAUTyY_-7I8oUSxZpB4iqt-zrWZ4dIUiZhOLlaGakgVxJzjdjCXjhANWAvJjMXSUiJ4_Q4I6pg=s190" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="190" data-original-width="176" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhl8ISxqqGAQQkHPpxyNv5HM_-7yADmmel9_buPb7R6jRtFjIP9zeYLvSGvtD7SC21YwmKP63XUgeAMTAwOeBgQxOCsqdO6EnfOk3oI_BmeuTLGPAPAGAUTyY_-7I8oUSxZpB4iqt-zrWZ4dIUiZhOLlaGakgVxJzjdjCXjhANWAvJjMXSUiJ4_Q4I6pg" width="176" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">This race has the coolest</span></i></b></div><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">shirt designs</span></i></b></div></td></tr></tbody></table><b></b><i></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><b></b><i></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgz3XbRTG3DdeDGtT8R3nQfRxI4UZXT4H5PvYb5IrUgjITl7HFQkg0pbe35haTD9K0fTLIZ6V4lczvY-72mcd43gRj9cVHyjojyS-qVqvqcoS22cF_sXTGjXDPG1w3nF7jz10LSuQ1tj8zHqUvqcACFQAZkH-bPuuLU-3rxJzgUjr7uqOD0Dmi6SaZ3OA=s414" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="311" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgz3XbRTG3DdeDGtT8R3nQfRxI4UZXT4H5PvYb5IrUgjITl7HFQkg0pbe35haTD9K0fTLIZ6V4lczvY-72mcd43gRj9cVHyjojyS-qVqvqcoS22cF_sXTGjXDPG1w3nF7jz10LSuQ1tj8zHqUvqcACFQAZkH-bPuuLU-3rxJzgUjr7uqOD0Dmi6SaZ3OA=w150-h200" width="150" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Russell's room, the owl</span></i></b></div><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">cutouts came from the</span></i></b></div><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">library baby shower.</span></i></b></div></td></tr></tbody></table><b></b><i></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjqIzO93qGX-I86m7DGLVT8B1xYKDKjxNvvRhLJfaaXicdveedxki3VM7fQTh0LQc6_UitLgYibSO8ww1L6IAfURECtPNUJkB2INKluu-4un8kruUeTBTfVXTIvs-VAgq1MZa4cTWfi5QKVp41poMfTCERvKi_jtRoCabhgua1x2JVR7byu9zJXpehTJw=s414" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="311" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjqIzO93qGX-I86m7DGLVT8B1xYKDKjxNvvRhLJfaaXicdveedxki3VM7fQTh0LQc6_UitLgYibSO8ww1L6IAfURECtPNUJkB2INKluu-4un8kruUeTBTfVXTIvs-VAgq1MZa4cTWfi5QKVp41poMfTCERvKi_jtRoCabhgua1x2JVR7byu9zJXpehTJw=w150-h200" width="150" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Russell's woodland</span></i></b></div><div><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">theme is everywhere</span></i></b></div></td></tr></tbody></table><b></b><i></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhR2NwnGhs4A9kaUWJOfN5yXuTpYDds_vTRFUjfx7HiIEfZc2tI4TqinHITFejZviDQMc2UHXi4gGOamO9ajrSe_PSVy6RaDGNHqwf3bu-lBv3B3Q_v9UF6Qqg32pNv4d1JzQ0nA37lz_dSNJdPksgQLZukG1wD59CoYQ3_mXdAjWZ03A5vLs8HE53Sjg=s417" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="417" data-original-width="311" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhR2NwnGhs4A9kaUWJOfN5yXuTpYDds_vTRFUjfx7HiIEfZc2tI4TqinHITFejZviDQMc2UHXi4gGOamO9ajrSe_PSVy6RaDGNHqwf3bu-lBv3B3Q_v9UF6Qqg32pNv4d1JzQ0nA37lz_dSNJdPksgQLZukG1wD59CoYQ3_mXdAjWZ03A5vLs8HE53Sjg=s320" width="239" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Russell!</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEizwPknAOeudJp9nz-3Hog2EuOQ6TA_USd1UxlM4AhEvBanNw19VPPYrJi-zwzd6gZ3lOG6maYQeEtL7iOHXtGhnGBSgdc6ofdgdoOXhyQiyeUSKi7sW1eWHV67z4d5TXEkEEU6LFN6HpjRn5uFJey4jPbsteji4rghqtYyCj3PxwP4ihXLDBYSQqFcRw=s414" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="311" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEizwPknAOeudJp9nz-3Hog2EuOQ6TA_USd1UxlM4AhEvBanNw19VPPYrJi-zwzd6gZ3lOG6maYQeEtL7iOHXtGhnGBSgdc6ofdgdoOXhyQiyeUSKi7sW1eWHV67z4d5TXEkEEU6LFN6HpjRn5uFJey4jPbsteji4rghqtYyCj3PxwP4ihXLDBYSQqFcRw=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>C, L & R</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-31574573991029208922022-02-01T15:40:00.001-05:002022-02-01T15:50:46.052-05:00To Be Frank, I'm Not a Big Fan of Your Cervix<p>So 38 weeks, 8.7452 months, or 266 days - however you want to call it - you <i>NOW DECIDE </i>you want a change of plans?! We sure hope you understand the repercussions for last minute changes.</p><p>On L's most recent weekly check up, the doctor felt a hard lump at the top of L's baby bump - which isn't new, this is typically Russell's knee or foot poking at his human cocoon. Upon further inspection, the doctor wanted to be sure of what she was feeling and - utilizing an ultrasound - her thoughts were proved correct. It wasn't a knee or foot she was detecting, it was the top of Russell's head.</p><p></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4gMlEk1s9SnAFaI9BB5uWa5Z111taWflHIX2-NMSKtUPei_o_En7rr5CFdTQyuZFrpnR3m7pVmfuLUBYP6rjRX25ER7cPD4IOntS8KTUP-2hB7elwepChEqoq10KsOYndxKjLZZp6QV3soV2lJelhoOd-xNbHv2nffXaSB1onuzEtPBQGkxebl39ipA=s806" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="806" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4gMlEk1s9SnAFaI9BB5uWa5Z111taWflHIX2-NMSKtUPei_o_En7rr5CFdTQyuZFrpnR3m7pVmfuLUBYP6rjRX25ER7cPD4IOntS8KTUP-2hB7elwepChEqoq10KsOYndxKjLZZp6QV3soV2lJelhoOd-xNbHv2nffXaSB1onuzEtPBQGkxebl39ipA=w318-h320" width="318" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table>Apparently, ROKS had moved into the <i><a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21848-breech-baby">Frank Breech</a></i> position<i> (Not to be confused with <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Breech">former Bengals Kicker Jim Breech</a>)</i>. Ideally, a baby is positioned so that the head is delivered first during a vaginal birth. In the breech position, a baby's rear-end or feet are located first in the uterus. For a Frank Breech baby, the buttocks are aimed at the vaginal canal with its legs sticking straight up in front of their body and the feet near their head. <p></p><p></p>Not the ideal position you want your baby to be, especially if you are 36 weeks or further along, which we are. While at my work desk, L called to give me the less than spectacular news. Now, this only means the traditional vaginal birth is not likely and a <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/c-section/about/pac-20393655"><i>C-section</i></a> is the ideal form of delivery. This does nothing to indicate the health or status of the baby, but definitely not what we were expecting. Sounding a bit defeated on the phone, L and I would soon be meeting with the doctor to further detail the next steps.<p></p>Again, Russell is doing fine, but we truly were not looking toward a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus. For something to do I began reading up on breech babies and found a section titled, <i>How can I flip my baby if it's breech? </i>And let me tell you, it was rich:<div><br /></div><div>* One is called the <i>Bridge position </i>which requires one to lie on the floor with their legs bent and your feet flat on the ground. You then raise your hips and pelvis into a bridge position. Hold this position for 10 or 15 minutes several times a day. I believe I've seen this in those <a href="https://grokker.com/fitness/video/denise-austin-total-body-burn-cardio-dance-workout/5511dce93d480d4f6b693bb2"><i>Denise Austin fat-burning workouts</i></a>. You used to see these played on ESPN in the wee hours of the morning, an apparent attempt reach a wider audience. Though, I believe that audience continued to be teenage and college-aged males..<i>.ehem</i>...for "<i>some"</i> reason.</div><div><br /></div><div>* Then there is the <i>Child’s pose</i> which has you rest in the child’s pose for 10 to 15 minutes. Apparently it can help relax your pelvic muscles and uterus. It is stated that you can also rock back and forth on your hands and knees or make circles with your pelvis to promote activity. In a sense, pretend you are an unruly child not getting what you want, so go limp and fall to the floor as if you are in full pout-till-they-cave-in mode. Though, they'd rather you not scream like a banshee as it might create additional complications <i>(neighbors, police, misdemeanors, etc.)</i></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEis4WU-0bsvBdBIApm66DkXQhPO6tDCAcJJF1RwvcQmQLEJ87jqHLsr7tIz6t3juz1i0G5xTUSaaJSm4QfKyMkn1BXn_e8_hCI-A3Z4fA5hMrYpU48EP5mCoMNpKtcPU6oSMOU1fjcVV3GKvPnWhxqnNVVqtuu8IPIvfMY8CDNfTzVKMEVTpJ0lFklOYQ=s936" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="936" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEis4WU-0bsvBdBIApm66DkXQhPO6tDCAcJJF1RwvcQmQLEJ87jqHLsr7tIz6t3juz1i0G5xTUSaaJSm4QfKyMkn1BXn_e8_hCI-A3Z4fA5hMrYpU48EP5mCoMNpKtcPU6oSMOU1fjcVV3GKvPnWhxqnNVVqtuu8IPIvfMY8CDNfTzVKMEVTpJ0lFklOYQ=w246-h320" width="246" /></a></div>* Music: Place headphones or a speaker at the bottom of your uterus to encourage your baby to turn. Instead of "go towards the light", go towards the sound of whatever crap your mother is pumping into the cavity between her bladder & rectum. Wouldn't this just want to make your child climb up into your diaphragm to get away from the obnoxious noise?</div><div><br />* Temperature: Try placing something cold at the top of your stomach where your baby’s head is. Then, place something warm at the bottom of your stomach. Yes, yes, yes....this has been used since colonial Massachusetts and - with any luck - will also dissolve the malignant supernatural powers related to the wiccan fetus inside.<p>Anyway, the C-section has been scheduled for February 8th which will be three days after L's birthday and six days before Valentine's Day. At least the boy will be doing me a favor by lumping all the special occasions within a week of each other <i>(note to self: future Februarys will be busy)</i>. </p><p>For my knowledge, L sent me a screen shot of her online medical information regarding the scheduling of the surgery. And I don't know about you, but do they really need to call their discussion a telephone <i>"encounter"</i>? I feel like they discussed the coming birth of ROKS through extraterrestrial means with the expectation of it taking place somewhere near <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Area_51"><i>Area 51</i></a>. Though the boy will likely look alien like - preferably not like the one in the movie<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0078748/"><i> Alien</i></a> - when he is extricated.</p><p></p><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjcoAAlLA7Qq4cqOHdbiosxvKjz7CjoUa1RQ2tOUQmxMbUIXs07b_Y6IhREw3PwyxZV22BdVULpBJgAjXKDBpGShl4EmXczq6SlP2ESZlUIEEOLaMSbn0s9ELH2QoMCGwysuegAiUFOX0pFeq9QZ8ytHGseow67IAb27co5iDKsuEi_FJKqm2v_pAbnHA=s206" style="clear: left; display: inline; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="152" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjcoAAlLA7Qq4cqOHdbiosxvKjz7CjoUa1RQ2tOUQmxMbUIXs07b_Y6IhREw3PwyxZV22BdVULpBJgAjXKDBpGShl4EmXczq6SlP2ESZlUIEEOLaMSbn0s9ELH2QoMCGwysuegAiUFOX0pFeq9QZ8ytHGseow67IAb27co5iDKsuEi_FJKqm2v_pAbnHA" width="152" /></a></div>As we try to digest Russell's sudden change of how he'd like to exit his human incubator, we are experiencing some crazy cold times. Not that this doesn't happen regularly at this time of the year in our part of the country, but a few days have been a bit more extreme then we would prefer. And it makes it that much less fun to run, but it is something that must me done<i> (alliteration is fun).</i><p></p><p>Since the short spat of illness last week, I have increased my liquid intake to make sure hydration is at it's peak and have cut back on some mileage to a level more associated with aerobic exercise than training. Thinking I had outfoxed mother nature's arctic blast by getting outside in the full sun last week and I was greeted with a temperature of two, yes, two degrees.</p><p>Now that is definitely cold, and it has been much colder in the past around here & elsewhere. Though it was just annoying that despite hand warmers in my gloves and dressed to where I could be mistaken for a <a href="https://muppets.disney.com/"><i>Muppet</i></a>, my sun glasses nearly completely fogged over, which then also froze. Meaning I was only lucky to have been running in an area familiar to me so as to avoid being pummeled by oncoming traffic or clotheslined by a tree branch. And my hands were cold, just not frozen. #HShive #mettlemonday</p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEilvpYsp-8korkZCLWG5iaQRDIrskkq9kzJFvLdrQ4bJrBAt9spO2czDZBl0vxhdum7UVY6JoCiJrM_fXR4TUbSzvpRrk_0UpnJN5UvmppaSqaaN0658dF1aRoc34A9rehMm6ozamIMhgQRdgXiIaANkd_vzQc_6TEWwY8a76bT3mGviVSq4qxzamHEfA=s600" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEilvpYsp-8korkZCLWG5iaQRDIrskkq9kzJFvLdrQ4bJrBAt9spO2czDZBl0vxhdum7UVY6JoCiJrM_fXR4TUbSzvpRrk_0UpnJN5UvmppaSqaaN0658dF1aRoc34A9rehMm6ozamIMhgQRdgXiIaANkd_vzQc_6TEWwY8a76bT3mGviVSq4qxzamHEfA=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>A little Lebowski is apparently on the way!</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table>A super fun stat from this day, our unborn son's age was still a larger number than the windchill temp of -5. It is winter and it gets cold, sometimes REALLY cold, but the extended polar vortex is a bit much. The football gods did help offset the cold by giving my Cincinnati Bengals the wherewithal to avoid any major mistakes - or blunders -and turn the tables on the Chiefs to garner their third Super Bowl berth ever! I'm still in shock and haven't washed my Joe Burrow jersey since the season started. It is so cool that R.O.K.S' first football watching experience will be a Bengals/Rams Super Bowl in two weeks!<p></p>According to our birth app, Russell is the size of a bowling pin. Since we completed the baby room this past weekend, we at least know he will tie the room together. We are also told our baby's internal systems are good to go and, fun fact, his brain and lungs are the only major organs that continue to develop into childhood and beyond. Oh, and his vocal cords have fully developed so he can be ready to communicate with once born.</div><div><br /></div><div>Finally, we are made aware that babies are known for their adorably huge heads, which are a result of all the brain power baby develops in utero. At this point your baby’s head has about the same circumference as their abdomen - hopefully Russ will grow out of this and not resemble a cartoon character throughout adulthood.<p>Assuming the procedure goes well & Russell doesn't change his mind - again - one week from today we will be the parents of an actual human, not just a pair cats who believe they are also human. It is exciting as well as daunting, but one can't try to pile years & years of what's to come into day one. Like a race, take it one mile at a time, focus on the task at hand and breathe.....</p></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXAidGQUuns">The Raconteurs – Steady, As She Goes</a></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Find yourself a girl and settle down</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Live a simple life in a quiet town</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Steady as she goes (steady as she goes)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Steady as she goes (steady as she goes)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So steady as she goes</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Your friends have a shown a kink in the single life</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You've had too much to think, now you need a wife</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Steady as she goes (steady as she goes)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So steady as she goes (steady as she goes)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Well, here we go again</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You've found yourself a friend that knows you well</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But no matter what you do</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You'll always feel as though you tripped and fell</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So steady as she goes</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>When you have completed what you thought you had to do</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And your blood's depleted to the point of stable glue</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Then you'll get along</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And then you'll get along</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Steady as she goes (steady as she goes)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So steady as she goes (steady as she goes)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Well, here we go again</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You've found yourself a friend that knows you well</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But no matter what you do</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You'll always feel as though you tripped and fell</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So steady as she goes</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Steady as she goes</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Settle for a world, neither up or down</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Sell it to the crowd that is gathered 'round</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Settle for a girl, neither up or down</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Sell it to the crowd that is gathered 'round</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So steady as she goes (steady as she goes)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Steady as she goes (steady as she goes)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Steady as she goes (steady as she goes)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So steady as she goes (steady as she goes)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Steady as she goes, are you steady now?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Steady as she goes, are you steady now?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Steady as she goes, are you steady now?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Steady as she goes, are you steady now?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Steady as she goes</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgN63wB0KmA-_xwXBuBa7GA_iFa5cLsuvCRHzNYm1-Lv5AxUBfbtllbhIFWOYDDBwDyqqvt7EtoW_L3VZBDe-vvxIFEbKwBPf7tEW1ykws_3Y1VIm3vLvha3aI70_UyFv_ef1FnrA7HcgxJNcqwqQpDhBMOv19wVXRhemJgynOrjvfHDWzzYfIcy65gFg=s206" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="155" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgN63wB0KmA-_xwXBuBa7GA_iFa5cLsuvCRHzNYm1-Lv5AxUBfbtllbhIFWOYDDBwDyqqvt7EtoW_L3VZBDe-vvxIFEbKwBPf7tEW1ykws_3Y1VIm3vLvha3aI70_UyFv_ef1FnrA7HcgxJNcqwqQpDhBMOv19wVXRhemJgynOrjvfHDWzzYfIcy65gFg" width="155" /></b></i></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Russell, coming soon <br />in Technicolor!</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivduwEIscw3w3TrnFtkTCTmb5mPV41rOAZu78GOXu_mdGgVBXrR2Fckldl4m9eaWS17_IiAqPSixpG5Pt36dUPPGfLD9HxWohMkv5wrrXjMcixFCht4K93toY59FpEXZKxOaVfW_x-U2VTpcKAbppOKlNlwrlKgRHPtYpVS2Q_UXIFQNGT6r1VpURmGA=s206" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="155" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEivduwEIscw3w3TrnFtkTCTmb5mPV41rOAZu78GOXu_mdGgVBXrR2Fckldl4m9eaWS17_IiAqPSixpG5Pt36dUPPGfLD9HxWohMkv5wrrXjMcixFCht4K93toY59FpEXZKxOaVfW_x-U2VTpcKAbppOKlNlwrlKgRHPtYpVS2Q_UXIFQNGT6r1VpURmGA" width="155" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>L, about to burst. Deflation<br />scheduled for next week.</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjgPasWbAvWbjl5XM5lzdLMKHgWlGti3LA2wNbJ7lw22KDPvQo6XDYD9IlSnZ2EPRnR4bJvd2TrPwdHgNdNCAimphLfN9OH5Gz2zIMe2vqiMX8wiuxoNKDI7BIJWMQVCq8HAvnyQusxKu_0chfhQHfa6X5VVmTbrNIEeT6r6i_3rYRdubrp9M6wVxGF2g=s231" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="205" data-original-width="231" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjgPasWbAvWbjl5XM5lzdLMKHgWlGti3LA2wNbJ7lw22KDPvQo6XDYD9IlSnZ2EPRnR4bJvd2TrPwdHgNdNCAimphLfN9OH5Gz2zIMe2vqiMX8wiuxoNKDI7BIJWMQVCq8HAvnyQusxKu_0chfhQHfa6X5VVmTbrNIEeT6r6i_3rYRdubrp9M6wVxGF2g" width="231" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>The first beer label I made for<br />our wedding in 2019, L's head <br />on an animated body</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaXpL5D8z8MyCT-67pIsC2EwhaqKe_Hs3LakkWSKrBejBeSvfpQL4ilDoOlcQ8LC5s65AqmpYV9_2AV4JYQPuYeOMKPtuzl66dH28Al1s4tMOGOJiAC8Rv6ckyfNdtB8PutrDGM7KvmhqKmAJvmTWESG60XvkH59LTv0JrwbuYXtZj7Mjys_Wp_f6gPg=s233" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="199" data-original-width="233" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaXpL5D8z8MyCT-67pIsC2EwhaqKe_Hs3LakkWSKrBejBeSvfpQL4ilDoOlcQ8LC5s65AqmpYV9_2AV4JYQPuYeOMKPtuzl66dH28Al1s4tMOGOJiAC8Rv6ckyfNdtB8PutrDGM7KvmhqKmAJvmTWESG60XvkH59LTv0JrwbuYXtZj7Mjys_Wp_f6gPg" width="233" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>The second beer label for <br />our wedding, a work photo of <br />me goofing off and a creepy<br />one of me outside of my then-apartment</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiWLoslVQyw7jxtYrOELbhmt68AG5rMXy6JdShkzV1mlmd-b5HkNMOW9Q-F_apZokk43NkoS0_Pz1QLA2839Ow9yjaHmyuH5wcEnPfQI9r1A0uSbvg4EaKXNYyD0M8zCjcKpnWgOhxCvd__o52Lt97t6cipFUGjubo0kOEnfMaNIoumOKqbCzf8MCEE8A=s231" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8GgenMsiirPB9myPOnGfa643aTfhXJLHaS2B9wviHTjyGT8YEG5drz2GXxpcZK_2LIo1Y0Pyu96dLIIKEjoDUdaq5ob3gW0Mn8qFLHuVlEq_C6U6ld_h59XfcaCP2QifFQz75Yk33nu3gan1snq7hzNphFAvT1jAVaL2Iqv8Eu3usyAky5LlSH0VhXA=s233" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEghs1A4mu2A-YLbiKhzMHAJPV4VfeAeKVW5gW26lLxml_163PUzBrPKam5dW8d1XB5YatPefsQIR58Uy7wNJPS8UB_bfek50CiyziqDkhElDq_bAjxTy0vZqBQMdtwNmf1NK5fvhdcJXVP2ojenxtf0WCAJ-mQzA8WjEZ4jRK-eS9dbZiMowEM6UxuVsg=s808" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="808" data-original-width="714" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEghs1A4mu2A-YLbiKhzMHAJPV4VfeAeKVW5gW26lLxml_163PUzBrPKam5dW8d1XB5YatPefsQIR58Uy7wNJPS8UB_bfek50CiyziqDkhElDq_bAjxTy0vZqBQMdtwNmf1NK5fvhdcJXVP2ojenxtf0WCAJ-mQzA8WjEZ4jRK-eS9dbZiMowEM6UxuVsg=s320" width="283" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Russell's beer labeled, bottled and ready for his<br />arrival. To be cracked up on February 8th!</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjtwZhWY0nO4_y9AdMpYDMZ01gwXZcmeyYwZEQ9euBuVWgwht-hcIvCVh7WL-kgune4OjgnT0ooYCNvn9u2KBW_qP580WDGpnTj6AVWChK67gD-OH85ip8yLa2x1l0p2HF1_kdjuLWVwxwlk0Q6CuPet69YXrf7n2zhaQyAjNWRfrg0bI2tGHjjQc-hAg=s735" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="735" data-original-width="710" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjtwZhWY0nO4_y9AdMpYDMZ01gwXZcmeyYwZEQ9euBuVWgwht-hcIvCVh7WL-kgune4OjgnT0ooYCNvn9u2KBW_qP580WDGpnTj6AVWChK67gD-OH85ip8yLa2x1l0p2HF1_kdjuLWVwxwlk0Q6CuPet69YXrf7n2zhaQyAjNWRfrg0bI2tGHjjQc-hAg=s320" width="309" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>The label made for Russell's arrival. The <br />background is a photo I took from the <br />South Haven, Michigan pier on Jan. 30 of 2020.</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p></div><b><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhInNhn2QE7n7Fuo4rJBAI2Wp4aZ1oEK7s0_BsP9wflON34xpy3pPkkumtpIWbh_ZdD7Tks2-ejg6hYpAn4LCsy8z-FLKaW1zS1KNL5kUp8sIFCbgJdZYwwM0iAy5drrgRKV0tstoE-QuuX-9dzDXH89Z3QAUDCRQsDNstPJZtbCQH6gR6MbiThJUnVkA=s275" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="275" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhInNhn2QE7n7Fuo4rJBAI2Wp4aZ1oEK7s0_BsP9wflON34xpy3pPkkumtpIWbh_ZdD7Tks2-ejg6hYpAn4LCsy8z-FLKaW1zS1KNL5kUp8sIFCbgJdZYwwM0iAy5drrgRKV0tstoE-QuuX-9dzDXH89Z3QAUDCRQsDNstPJZtbCQH6gR6MbiThJUnVkA" width="275" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></b></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">My mom, sister, brother-in-law, nieces & <br />nephew paid us a visit following my <br />nephew's basketball game.</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><b style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></b><div><div><div><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxag3KZWriQFz3bQFRo_iy0FWg-wV-fd4L-iKS8kqkjK-m-NeuLqABrfn-TuaY7cBAJlYN5cuubcw6xszqkZt8xACx34NLr2kpNrQTADaD5THYqC-ekheTu1ptpuhauJgCbU6fIUoz6p7lRXXPZMwK0Zq-W8IJSX5PtI1gTHdvo_NlGgISMSTiVkCKKA=s206" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="206" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxag3KZWriQFz3bQFRo_iy0FWg-wV-fd4L-iKS8kqkjK-m-NeuLqABrfn-TuaY7cBAJlYN5cuubcw6xszqkZt8xACx34NLr2kpNrQTADaD5THYqC-ekheTu1ptpuhauJgCbU6fIUoz6p7lRXXPZMwK0Zq-W8IJSX5PtI1gTHdvo_NlGgISMSTiVkCKKA=w320-h320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">My Bengals, led by a fellow Southeast Ohio <br />native, are off to another Super Bowl!</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div></div></div>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-44739431474191983092022-01-25T11:57:00.006-05:002022-01-25T13:39:46.910-05:00You've Got *Unborn* Mail<p>At one time or another we've all received mail addressed to us with a misspelling of our name or even a butchered phonetic version of what appears on our state issued ID. For example, I received some Victoria's Secret junk mail this week addressed with my middle name as my first name followed by the correct last name. My first name didn't appear anywhere on this piece of physical mail spam and I have never used my middle for anything other than what it is, how?</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgmggY0e-_WAM-opWE-jAg38Z5DdQHS7HMrKiKG2kaSNb_l5eQ1g8XijED2dRIjb843NC_-_OWD8xCb1VH0szO04IsDjlzQ8ivffmp7JaDyw-tLeUZoBuOt6OxAaQamcn5GEVVvnQs4llXBujUDlEZn5PD-lrtRJWjVbyST3Qms4hsm8hpFGEuOgq0vng=s1080" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="1080" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgmggY0e-_WAM-opWE-jAg38Z5DdQHS7HMrKiKG2kaSNb_l5eQ1g8XijED2dRIjb843NC_-_OWD8xCb1VH0szO04IsDjlzQ8ivffmp7JaDyw-tLeUZoBuOt6OxAaQamcn5GEVVvnQs4llXBujUDlEZn5PD-lrtRJWjVbyST3Qms4hsm8hpFGEuOgq0vng=s320" width="320" /></a></div>It was very odd, though there were some excellent "classy" photos of barely-there undergarments being modeled by <i>stereotypical looking</i> women for me to peruse through before sending it to it's recycling bin home in the carport. Maybe the squirrels will find it just as entertaining.<p></p><p>For other mail, there comes surprises. The day after receiving the mail addressed to a nonexistent version of me, we received a package addressed to myself, L <i>and Russell! </i>The first piece of mail received with our son's name on it. The text sent by L consisted of a photo of the label with the message, <i>"It's like he's a real person!!" </i></p><p>The package had contents to help add to the organization of the baby room, which has been fun and one can't help but wonder if Russ would approve of where things are located and how it's decorated. Even the cats have been spending time snooping around and curiously wondering what will soon be taking place.</p><p>Once L putting the crib together, she wondered what we should do regarding the possibility the cats <i>(Whiskey & Jameson) </i>getting in to it. For awhile there wasn't a worry as they saw it as something taking up space and avoided it. Then about two weeks ago I hear L yell, <i>"Jameson!", </i>which was followed by a <i>thud</i> and then an orange blur leaving Russell's room and darting down the basement steps.</p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtuFM1ZA7X9UjziGQ1j5Oa5JW-9azV9BQjKTDRRGkUrROmUchcR38a6-wtunFi12aUusNHpnT4OnomyHCRxW6nmvZSpzY0BIonJy7FJJvAdiL8xGkw15XV0tFrySVxhtyx6Oom_a2090s1jZ8C-nGX4N_v6dSb9QKFJPqGnl18ft3w4hyj2PyIAibi5A=s1147" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="764" data-original-width="1147" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtuFM1ZA7X9UjziGQ1j5Oa5JW-9azV9BQjKTDRRGkUrROmUchcR38a6-wtunFi12aUusNHpnT4OnomyHCRxW6nmvZSpzY0BIonJy7FJJvAdiL8xGkw15XV0tFrySVxhtyx6Oom_a2090s1jZ8C-nGX4N_v6dSb9QKFJPqGnl18ft3w4hyj2PyIAibi5A=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>This will be posted for our cats shortly. We're giving you<br />fair warning Whiskey & Jameson.</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table>The fat orange cat <i>(nicknamed: chunka-chunk) </i>was discovered curled up in the crib asleep. Typically, this would be worrisome, but some key factors are in play. One, he was asleep on a blanket he prefers and this is something that will not be in the crib once Russell arrives. It was simply a temporary holding place. <p></p><p>Secondly, both of the cats freak out at the slightest noise and I can't imagine them hanging out in a room where the equivalent of a drunken smoke alarm getting false positives from alcohol-fueled dreams breaks the silence every hour. And,<i> Yes</i>, I did just compare our unborn son to a Schizophrenic warning system <i>(Sorry, Russ, but you gonna be loud & lots of things will irritate you. My apologies). </i></p><p>L's pregnancy, which had been relatively uneventful, now seems to be testing her with the<i> "you thought this was going to be easy, didn't you"</i> stage. A stomach bug clobbered her for about two days this past week, leaving her unable to go to work, inhaling liquids and sleeping<i> (or attempting to sleep)</i>. Of course, carrying a fetus at 37 weeks compounded the process of ridding her system of said bug.</p><p>The first night she was tossing around and visiting the restroom so frequently that I was unable to rest. I moved to the sofa in the front room, but since it is more/less a love seat - my six-foot-three frame couldn't get comfortable. I ended up curled up on the floor, drifting in and out of sleep till my work alarm went off. It wasn't a fun night for me, I can't imagine the enjoyment L dealt with.</p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhKSLDbh9TRSWHcCqQL40-YLAQyNm9He63RdMcQuQCloG1l96vNmBwi9AtGmaBfyOrzPG0sZ0tYS7V7YpP8zI2jLCAqJkUv_Maj51gKjbVhzHs_gSvxeFElXdiFKzA0aXT28Rykec9OSxWQq0iKEuhylX3mLHwvZzMYY-Pg81mcpdNLmTgyDJJALRjhrw=s1632" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="796" data-original-width="1632" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhKSLDbh9TRSWHcCqQL40-YLAQyNm9He63RdMcQuQCloG1l96vNmBwi9AtGmaBfyOrzPG0sZ0tYS7V7YpP8zI2jLCAqJkUv_Maj51gKjbVhzHs_gSvxeFElXdiFKzA0aXT28Rykec9OSxWQq0iKEuhylX3mLHwvZzMYY-Pg81mcpdNLmTgyDJJALRjhrw=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Tuesday Night Ice Ninjas: Gary, Ken and yours truly.</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table>The Tuesday night meetup with Gary & Ken for a run, wings & beer at Buffalo Wild Wings usually ends with me garnering something to take home to L. This week, instead of food from b-dubs, it was Gatorade and dry cereal from the nearby supermarket. The run on this night was cold, icy and windy - making it less than fun. Jokingly, Gary said the ice was a blessing as it forced us to slow down for an easy pace as he goes about covering Delaware City streets for his <a href="https://citystrides.com/"><i>CityStrides</i></a> and kept him from having to keep up with my usual 6 minute mile pace. Though, he still has awhile to go to catch me in Delaware as I have covered 405 of 633 streets for just under 64%. He may have me elsewhere, but this is my town...for the time being anyway. #HShive #mettlemonday<div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbl5nqbl_l0BbfhWQvipkmTREcJZMHbvm_qbRmEZDNGHfrBrj2ih1-wpXCRa8PcuWSGfmeYwW5td8Hy2fAm7yjx_AlXiQOC5EGWdkp3ZWf50GAuE774K73M0uhbST7ZICSwEYtVfxIZiCJRmdc3gHvf4yqK_-McoCffA_w9YFK7LPgc61wdTiZvDHn8w=s206" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="155" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbl5nqbl_l0BbfhWQvipkmTREcJZMHbvm_qbRmEZDNGHfrBrj2ih1-wpXCRa8PcuWSGfmeYwW5td8Hy2fAm7yjx_AlXiQOC5EGWdkp3ZWf50GAuE774K73M0uhbST7ZICSwEYtVfxIZiCJRmdc3gHvf4yqK_-McoCffA_w9YFK7LPgc61wdTiZvDHn8w=w150-h200" width="150" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">L is in good spirts as the<br />time gets closer</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table>Thursday morning wasn't fun, woke up feeling dead tired with my back feeling like I had been in car accident. From the base of my skull to my tailbone, I was sore & achy - making it hard to move around. It was weird...no head cold, no chest congestion, no stomach issues, just worn out & sore. This forced taking two days off from work and kept me from taking part in Saturday's<i> <a href="https://www.frigid5kseries.com/">Fantastic Frigid 5k Race #2</a>. </i>Then just like that, it all wore off and I was back to normal again. I even went to get tested to make sure I didn't have some backwards form of COVID, but that came up negative...craziness.</div><div><br /></div><div>On one of the days when I was at home hung up with whatever it was, L grabbed a few things at the grocery store she thought would help ease my discomfort. Then she sends me this text, <i>"Seeing a lady wiping her produce with Lysol wipes....that poor red onion has no outer layer skin anymore." </i>This made me laugh, but then my curiosity got the better of me (<i>*I was a little bored*</i>) and I found this on the <a href="https://www.lysol.com/customer-support"><i>Lysol Products website</i></a>: </div><div><i>"Lysol disinfecting and cleaning products are for surfaces and <b>not for personal use</b>. <b><u>They cannot be used on the body or on food</u> </b>and always should be used as directed."</i> </div><div><br /></div><div>Some people make my brain hurt.</div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaVe45KRPGvPN1RKm_-bO3lptSiSar_x5em1XCMaVn8xC1lV_C49lBlGtEkDxu4STPZFgTlU2y1AyDyALdz9_cdf8ouaFNjy8zaUuS2ZqSd-NmwFcFJmk8XmPz6MKcfsyCQLlAZGm7WF6YgvW8D_U-Vt3Pr4YDkwhg2s9HZCTEhGSvIX2JpEOS5G5iPw=s279" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="279" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaVe45KRPGvPN1RKm_-bO3lptSiSar_x5em1XCMaVn8xC1lV_C49lBlGtEkDxu4STPZFgTlU2y1AyDyALdz9_cdf8ouaFNjy8zaUuS2ZqSd-NmwFcFJmk8XmPz6MKcfsyCQLlAZGm7WF6YgvW8D_U-Vt3Pr4YDkwhg2s9HZCTEhGSvIX2JpEOS5G5iPw=w200-h148" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Preparing for a Bengals win <br />with Jameson & Whiskey</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Anyway, what made the weekend a bit more tolerable was watching my Bengals return to the AFC Championship Game for the first time since 1988, that's 34 years! Even L, a Steelers fan, was excited. It was like my childhood showed up for a couple of hours to say "hi" as it was passing through. How significant was the playoff win over the Titans? I received several congratulator texts, including one from the mom of a girl I dated in college! Yeah, it has been a long time for the Cincinnati fans and <i>everybody</i> knows it.</div><div><br /></div><div>One of L's favorite things to eat as of late has been grapefruit. She eats them in a way I've never seen. She scarfs them down like one peels & eats an orange, then scavenges to get every piece of pulp off the rind. She laughs and says this is just how she has always eaten them, but it reminds me of how I would imagine a <a href="https://www.britannica.com/topic/chupacabra"><i>Chupacabra</i></a> would go about devouring a goat or lamb gone astray. Surprisingly, she hasn't nipped a finger or two with the way she attacks the citrus and at least we know Russell will be well protected against <a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/155758"><i>Scurvy</i></a>.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiAFdV4Zl0oXel1vTXmd2-ZSphijmhiLqpmern65yA_yIoGHgZPpQcPn8loZJLhObAJTdRjtJah5GyUPRoxs2MWaQSLMUCOTquNasiiw9r3Q1QmssmxPdyvc3KQ-OmpiIzB9knGTVrlV_giBPRWhIqinajj64y3l1B87upeJWxfkcfJXWELUyRCnhfLYQ=s768" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="768" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiAFdV4Zl0oXel1vTXmd2-ZSphijmhiLqpmern65yA_yIoGHgZPpQcPn8loZJLhObAJTdRjtJah5GyUPRoxs2MWaQSLMUCOTquNasiiw9r3Q1QmssmxPdyvc3KQ-OmpiIzB9knGTVrlV_giBPRWhIqinajj64y3l1B87upeJWxfkcfJXWELUyRCnhfLYQ=w320-h213" width="320" /></a></div>So, we about three weeks (THREE WEEKS!) away from R.O.K.S making his debut! And according to our birthing app, we are 37 weeks and he is the size of a <a href="https://www.basicfun.com/poundpuppies/index.html"><i>Pound Puppy</i></a>! If you don't remember <i>(I do, my sister had one)</i>, these were plush stuffed dog dolls with floppy ears and droopy eyes. They came in a variety of colors, some with spots. Hopefully, our son will arrive spot-free. And finally, we have wandered away from the food related references to the size of our future child.</div><div><br /></div><div>The app also states our baby is nearing their due date, which means that they could arrive any time now. But until then, they’ll continue putting the finishing touches on their development.</div><div><p></p><p>Speaking of, the most recent check-up for L show's ROKS' heartbeat inching closer to the target rate for birth, his head is down and he is facing her backside. And he is officially dropping - <i>just like we have noticed</i> - to get to the best place for turning prior to birth. Oh, and a test of the beer made for Russell's arrival has proven it to be a successful venture, slightly sweet up front, then dry and hoppy on the backend - tasty and refreshing! </p><p>So everything is on par, even ahead of time, and it is setting up like it should....yeah, it will not always be a walk in the park - but at least we can imagine it to be...three weeks till parenthood...</p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSuHrTfcikU">Blur - Parklife</a></i></b></p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Confidence is a preference for the habitual voyeur of what is known as (Parklife!)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And morning soup can be avoided if you take a route straight through what is known as (Parklife!)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>John's got brewer's droop, he gets intimidated by the dirty pigeons, they love a bit of it (Parklife!)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Who's that gut lord marching? You should cut down on your pork life mate, get some exercise</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>All the people</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So many people</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And they all go hand in hand</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Hand in hand through their parklife</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Know what I mean?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I get up when I want, except on Wednesdays when I get rudely awakened by the dustmen (Parklife!)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I put my trousers on, have a cup of tea and I think about leaving me house (Parklife!)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I feed the pigeons, I sometimes feed the sparrows too, it gives me a sense of enormous well-being (Parklife!)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And then I'm happy for the rest of the day, safe in the knowledge there will always be a bit of my heart devoted to it</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>All the people</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So many people</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And they all go hand in hand</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Hand in hand through their parklife</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Parklife (Parklife!)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Parklife (Parklife!)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>It's got nothing to do with your Vorsprung durch Technik, you know</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Parklife (Parklife!)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And it's not about you joggers who go 'round and 'round and 'round and 'round and 'round</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Parklife (Parklife!)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>All the people</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So many people</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And they all go hand in hand</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Hand in hand through their parklife</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>All the people</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So many people</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And they all go hand in hand</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Hand in hand through their parklife</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgF1doclcXdxL0Uwgrlvz7MCy0pzX_Mczg5ocI6-zfF2mcq6oJJ747hAlIeTNvSKVf6DsdrNNws5dSU2Oe1nKVK7xM_1C8HZEpsSYTYnUbD-hbUDbySOp-ecuLYY6P4ZMfSkmzSGTryofMQL45QvM9KNfQprolWb7AfkAsX4Bhch-WLKUemMaWs8MS0MA=s366" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="366" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgF1doclcXdxL0Uwgrlvz7MCy0pzX_Mczg5ocI6-zfF2mcq6oJJ747hAlIeTNvSKVf6DsdrNNws5dSU2Oe1nKVK7xM_1C8HZEpsSYTYnUbD-hbUDbySOp-ecuLYY6P4ZMfSkmzSGTryofMQL45QvM9KNfQprolWb7AfkAsX4Bhch-WLKUemMaWs8MS0MA=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Jameson & Whiskey, enjoying the current silence.</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbldy-SEYrvUF5AYLp-AlrjXzyhTQoHcAwDAq_V7qJFt4ySgQ5xWcKqX9HewM7EJFAgTcQo7f3XUsmHMcteyAEehuuso3w8wG702MLxfgBoLQjHOZNntKqcYtvv2zTT0Hqo4q6W29wWbNj_jH3Ep8khLPZ01Z5-KECNQyyspx8oSmfQcuG0gavYEkjQw=s206" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="206" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbldy-SEYrvUF5AYLp-AlrjXzyhTQoHcAwDAq_V7qJFt4ySgQ5xWcKqX9HewM7EJFAgTcQo7f3XUsmHMcteyAEehuuso3w8wG702MLxfgBoLQjHOZNntKqcYtvv2zTT0Hqo4q6W29wWbNj_jH3Ep8khLPZ01Z5-KECNQyyspx8oSmfQcuG0gavYEkjQw" width="206" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Photuris, Photinus, Pupa - <br />The Russell beer at <br />The Fermented Firefly</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhV-RBoinT3uhnZS4EsfCeMqJzGp2Hg6ECQvO5qEIjImSu_nklMK1paJldLqiKWlDGgUEhwpfNNpWsJPjqNGl0a-TDuv--1gVJEVqAhbaXZBRwyq7xI7KjiybrusyXUi2x7fMGxv7FBW2oy1wv8Jq6sJxBYnQM_2jmOC6AS_mNYYSiI1dENZ87NbRmK5g=s206" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="155" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhV-RBoinT3uhnZS4EsfCeMqJzGp2Hg6ECQvO5qEIjImSu_nklMK1paJldLqiKWlDGgUEhwpfNNpWsJPjqNGl0a-TDuv--1gVJEVqAhbaXZBRwyq7xI7KjiybrusyXUi2x7fMGxv7FBW2oy1wv8Jq6sJxBYnQM_2jmOC6AS_mNYYSiI1dENZ87NbRmK5g" width="155" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Snow hike Sunday w/ L</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMARpnRvwZxjMIYnEXv3RwZ1Bnxafl1r8QKV5NnX50_oiF2qB0RN6V_0xp_F9i3pfNykAfPY521tqZEHsB2QbmQcZkCSBWAa2eD6Ku77xv7fnKkROscnkpydVec0wDY-VByvYvx99QJLTK5Ylg6XNARtAO6XGdqJlihDsm-K1i7jAOnhJ8aJK2CxpEyA=s206" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="152" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiMARpnRvwZxjMIYnEXv3RwZ1Bnxafl1r8QKV5NnX50_oiF2qB0RN6V_0xp_F9i3pfNykAfPY521tqZEHsB2QbmQcZkCSBWAa2eD6Ku77xv7fnKkROscnkpydVec0wDY-VByvYvx99QJLTK5Ylg6XNARtAO6XGdqJlihDsm-K1i7jAOnhJ8aJK2CxpEyA" width="152" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Looking like death warmed<br />over during the sickness. <br />At least Jameson could relax.</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span><p><br /></p></div></div>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-7392784151586939072022-01-18T12:03:00.004-05:002022-01-18T13:08:30.417-05:00Trogdor, the Dragon Fetus<div class="separator"><div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /><br /></div></div>On a midweek off day I officially took down our Christmas tree <i>(we removed the ornaments and such days ago)</i> and removed the remaining holiday lights adorning our house. The recent "warm up" to the 30's allowed for being outside for more than just a quick run and felt like spring compared to what we have had here lately.<div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhVjBiHRjGppumxr0EogG0Be_W3ZqmLCHYS2aTanQKnZILBf0HIDwEGuubk0aOTsEovhtV22dGEOrhaMCXSYbqYozfpVeg5XKs-85BX8gy1SgwGnPAtE6azWVxFlnIQaYDd6u82OCMiXYeOJgyibeTjFL19MypzHk3l-GlL8jF-L5pB0g5CL7TDzFMzZA=s3269" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3269" data-original-width="2799" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhVjBiHRjGppumxr0EogG0Be_W3ZqmLCHYS2aTanQKnZILBf0HIDwEGuubk0aOTsEovhtV22dGEOrhaMCXSYbqYozfpVeg5XKs-85BX8gy1SgwGnPAtE6azWVxFlnIQaYDd6u82OCMiXYeOJgyibeTjFL19MypzHk3l-GlL8jF-L5pB0g5CL7TDzFMzZA=w171-h200" width="171" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Trogdor, sketeched by a former<br />coworker about 7-years ago<br />and still on my office <br />computer. Thanks Joel!</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table>Yes, the holidays are over but our biggest present of all will be coming shortly. As for L, I'm sure she is just as excited for the baby's arrival as she is to be free from new aches, pains, bodily functions and constant gymnastics taking place in the womb. Some days she gets around the house like a patient in the triage unit and it makes you wonder how something so small could be creating that much of a ruckus. Is there actually a baby in there or some alien being festering inside? We are pretty sure it's a baby and not <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><i>Trogdor from those old Strong Bad Email</i></a> videos from <i><a href="http://homestarrunner.com">homestarrunner.com</a>.</i> Either way, we don't have any thatched-roof cottages nearby we would have to worry about being burnt to the ground. So, yeah, we're good.</div><div><br /></div><div>Keeping L's mind of off baby Russell's ramped up preparation for exiting his human incubator is getting tougher, so we have been finding other things for her to focus on. She does walk a mile or so around our neighborhood on a daily basis and spending time arranging the baby's room has been helpful. Once home from work we have been binging on episodes of <i>"The Office" </i>to keep both of us on a more even keel.</div><div> <br />Sometimes the commercials between those episodes add some unexpected comfort. We had a good, stupid laugh at a cat litter advertisement as this woman was stressing how bad her pet's litter boxed smelled and was at a loss as to what she could do to correct it. I commented her problem wasn't the general odor, but the holding it up to her face like she was presenting a freakin' plate of lasagna for the family dinner table. If I shoved my head in the toilet, I <i>- too - </i>would probably complain about the smell!</div><div><br /></div><div>Yeah, it's the little things that can get us going.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgPJAhxWQoYuW5ggE9vgNnMN8f1harqE7mOXU-iOY0LcaQ5mwej_RIzI8_BmWlr6QUKRV0X43wADEgClm7KE9p3ga9nehK1ACc3O6RbWwMqjAnxSJ2nsRfXzpdZdkR6rnPqRy4Mh4NkMidnDBodaz1A9uGxwaVMhhsZjoSA9u2XqmhvHx7CsjeKxYi1OQ=s1280" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgPJAhxWQoYuW5ggE9vgNnMN8f1harqE7mOXU-iOY0LcaQ5mwej_RIzI8_BmWlr6QUKRV0X43wADEgClm7KE9p3ga9nehK1ACc3O6RbWwMqjAnxSJ2nsRfXzpdZdkR6rnPqRy4Mh4NkMidnDBodaz1A9uGxwaVMhhsZjoSA9u2XqmhvHx7CsjeKxYi1OQ=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></div>Oh, and that same night L felt Russell making odd movements and laughed when she realized he had the hiccups. Though she felt it much more since it was happening inside of her, I was able to faintly feel them myself after placing my hand on her stomach. One of the causes for hiccups is sudden excitement, maybe he, too, thought the cat litter comment was hilarious<i> (that's my boy!)</i>. Also, did you know the medical term for hiccups is <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30855813/"><i>singultus</i></a> - weird.</div><div><br /></div><div>On Tuesdays, when I don't work the evening, I have been meeting up with running <i>(and beer)</i> friends Gary & Ken to squeeze in five miles or so. We start and finish in the parking lot of Buffalo Wild & Wings with the finish consisting of post run wings and a couple of beers. This past week, I was surprised with a gift from Gary and his family. It's a copy of the book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Goodnight-Brew-Parody-Beer-People/dp/1934649503"><i>"Goodnight Brew"</i></a>, a parody on the book <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goodnight_Moon"><i>"Goodnight Moon"</i></a>.</div></div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2wJkUoy8z_gXVzJ9WnOqbmf8WR4NScJcZ2T6MovVPnvzlqOhhdIXTt8s-vLaAafhSzQJECZHSvSehHwmE6OLvET6vMZXVEA4_LCkiX63x1dH1_72GUBn4mVUXG9oWEdPpTSyCZts8RdZlNQRzH75Kx7grUQimoEREaJLVopCvMgB19h3m2UqlF4VjTQ=s1547" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1547" data-original-width="1536" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2wJkUoy8z_gXVzJ9WnOqbmf8WR4NScJcZ2T6MovVPnvzlqOhhdIXTt8s-vLaAafhSzQJECZHSvSehHwmE6OLvET6vMZXVEA4_LCkiX63x1dH1_72GUBn4mVUXG9oWEdPpTSyCZts8RdZlNQRzH75Kx7grUQimoEREaJLVopCvMgB19h3m2UqlF4VjTQ=w199-h200" width="199" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>L's Funfetti cake, complete<br />with firefly decorations</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table>Instead of a <i>'picture book'</i> it is described as a <i>'pitcher book'</i> for grown-ups, a besotted bedtime story for beer lovers everywhere. You follow the crew of animals as they close down for the evening and say goodnight to the brew kettle, barley and yeast, hops and mash, saison, porter, IPA, and more. Obviously, a tongue-in-cheek thing, but the last few pages do have brew infographics that follow the story. It may come in handy, in more way than one, in the near future. </div><div><br /></div><div>This coming weekend is race #2 of the <a href="https://www.frigid5kseries.com/"><i>Fantastic Frigid 5k Series</i></a> and if all goes as planned, I should be able to take part. Race #1 ended up being on the same day as the birthing class two weeks ago and I had to miss it. It isn't expected to be as cold as the first one and I'm looking forward to a trail course as the asphalt can get monotonous at times. #HShive #mettlemonday @honeystinger </div><div><br /></div><div>At her place of work, L's coworkers had a baby shower for her. When asked what kind of cake she would like to have, L was proud to say - with the full confidence of a proud, adult woman - that she wanted a <i><a href="https://www.pillsburybaking.com/products/funfetti">Funfetti cake</a>. </i>If you don't know, this is a white or yellow cake with rainbow colored
sprinkles baked into the batter. When baked, the sprinkles melt into dots of bright color that resemble confetti or in this case <i>"Funfetti". </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi2u-XRfAphg3MfOgYzNWvqP_9qUCayHcpbXEY8KoOD30Ery7pS-gBWGssqhFkIHkkmdNCDJhbH4cdnS2i5L34iOfhN2I_A719MU-WUjT1CVurOAEPpRorDuNV-_AzFCa-KoR_c351sLaDPqJps_h5HjOikzlPlAmjV8Qepk9628Un4qiPD44o6vnLgNg=s206" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="167" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi2u-XRfAphg3MfOgYzNWvqP_9qUCayHcpbXEY8KoOD30Ery7pS-gBWGssqhFkIHkkmdNCDJhbH4cdnS2i5L34iOfhN2I_A719MU-WUjT1CVurOAEPpRorDuNV-_AzFCa-KoR_c351sLaDPqJps_h5HjOikzlPlAmjV8Qepk9628Un4qiPD44o6vnLgNg=w162-h200" width="162" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Sunday Night's snow walk, L <br />& Pupa Russell standing<br /> under the street light</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table>The targeted demographic is, of course, children, but I guess one can get a pass if you are about to have a child as well. And the piece L had, of course, did have one of the fireflies on it. Just paying tribute to the logo she created for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CRAIGnBLAZER17"><i>The Fermented Firefly</i></a>. And she brought home a piece for me...and it was delicious. #HShive #mettlemonday</div><div><br /></div><div>This past weekend saw my Cincinnati Bengals end a 31-year drought by winning a playoff game and did it with a fellow Southeast Ohio native in young superstar Joe Burrow. At the same time, L's Steelers lost in what is likely Northwest Ohio native Ben Roethlisberger's last game after 18 years. A bit of a weird contrast taking place on the same weekend for the both of our teams. And we also had the first significant snowfall of the season, something we enjoy and typically results in a night walk around our neighborhood.</div><div><br /></div><div>The long Martin Luther King, Jr. Day holiday weekend ended Monday with the library where I work taking part in an event hosting <a href="http://www.nicstone.info/"><i>Author Nic Stone</i></a> and ending with a book signing at the library. I came away with a book signed by her for Russell and she used his ROKS initials after inquiring about the name we settled on. She also thought it was insane for anyone to run outside in the wintery weather, but since she lives in Georgia, she doesn't enjoy cold weather in general anyway. A couple of photos of what she wrote can be found below.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVKg-s4XLLmbmEHvD4Xcjjo9SXfsYOP8J8nzvs4FplcdNW4uIxJbF3HPjrr_8Ioi2OwrWTbFucCTnEi8O_piYXGSn1qxDAeZJ1-POgTo8lBoJLKEfKkAxsuhRySw6D1k2MYXNCK7FIFfrRtigO_VJqFRPGAU1pMN4c6Wgdtm66WJbVet3MFdKtfmAmSw=s600" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVKg-s4XLLmbmEHvD4Xcjjo9SXfsYOP8J8nzvs4FplcdNW4uIxJbF3HPjrr_8Ioi2OwrWTbFucCTnEi8O_piYXGSn1qxDAeZJ1-POgTo8lBoJLKEfKkAxsuhRySw6D1k2MYXNCK7FIFfrRtigO_VJqFRPGAU1pMN4c6Wgdtm66WJbVet3MFdKtfmAmSw=w200-h133" width="200" /></a></div>We are at 36 weeks and according to the birthing app, Russell is now the size of a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bugles_(snack)"><i>bag of Bugles</i></a>, so we at least know he's tasty (note to self: DO NOT EAT THE BABY). Another food related reference, this app knows us way to well. </div><div><br /></div><div>We are also told his blood circulation is fully up and running now. And at around 36 weeks or later, your baby drops from around your rib cage to closer to your pelvis. Aha! Russell did that in the last week, he's ahead of the game! I believe L is proud to know our boy is a leader and not a follower, as well as a corn snack.</div><div><br /></div><div>So 28 days, 4 weeks or one month - however you break it down - that is what the birthing encyclopedia indicates regarding the time we have until Russell's arrival. Though experiencing L's recent reactions to his increased movement, Russell apparently has his bags packed and is just waiting for the early train to leave the station. </div><div><br /></div><div>Patience, Trogdor<i>...uh</i>...I mean, <i>Russell</i>...patience...we still have some corn snacks to finish off...</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5xbg00xjJuE"><b>Tanlines - Brother</b>s</a></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Minimal big mistakes, and the last one:<br />
In the car or the store, you didn't ask for it<br />
Take your time, take the place, and react<br />
Does it in my mind set the pace?<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>And rewind to them<br />
And rewind to them<br />
And rewind to them<br />
And rewind to them<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>Take a chance, make a choice, you couldn't not look<br />
Indecision overload is only chance figures<br />
Change my mind, make mistakes, and put it past them<br />
Raise the bar, set the course<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>And rewind to them<br />
And rewind to them<br />
And rewind to them<br />
And rewind to them<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>You're just the same as you ever were<br />
You fighting, no wonder why it makes no sense<br />
I'm just the same as I ever been,<br />
But I'm the only one who doesn't notice it<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>See me through the front porch<br />
Sure, I want more<br />
Off the cuff, doesn't measure<br />
Got a front door<br />
Take the stairs, make mistakes<br />
Just make up for them<br />
On the spot, don't pretend<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>And rewind to them<br />
And rewind to them<br />
And rewind to them<br />
And rewind to them<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>You're just the same as you ever were<br />
You fighting, no wonder why it makes no sense<br />
I'm just the same as I ever been,<br />
But I'm the only one who doesn't notice it<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>Yeah, yeah ah hey<br />
Yeah, yeah ah hey<br />
Yeah, yeah ah hey<br />
Yeah, yeah ah hey<br />
Yeah, yeah ah hey<br />
Yeah, yeah ah hey<br />
Yeah, yeah ah hey<br />
Yeah, yeah ah hey<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>You're just the same as you ever were<br />
You're just the same as you ever were<br />
You're just the same as you ever were<br />
You're just the same as you ever were</i><o:p></o:p></p></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhLYkTLz-nlmgD639hNUCNq3rsN45KLS8NvKFEAr_rUZTOVF6UNdDA0TjR-o7IgeEM1KZ_XqLUVe1nDGMy9u9hg6cxaCB5U3a-OMEwNhVahfpE2iizN_TYZCIBtn0nCOJqjpwQt6TJz0Kyw0K6MHBX6LRQy8X9mVH59N4fnW8M1TUWd7ICde94hoqF5ZA=s1049" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1049" data-original-width="1018" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhLYkTLz-nlmgD639hNUCNq3rsN45KLS8NvKFEAr_rUZTOVF6UNdDA0TjR-o7IgeEM1KZ_XqLUVe1nDGMy9u9hg6cxaCB5U3a-OMEwNhVahfpE2iizN_TYZCIBtn0nCOJqjpwQt6TJz0Kyw0K6MHBX6LRQy8X9mVH59N4fnW8M1TUWd7ICde94hoqF5ZA=s320" width="311" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>A slice of L's funfetti cake.</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzN1EuzqxK36vo7n4M76e_sayvVnt7J8MViur504dA_vw7BPZTwTuqUzGBuJwCBlc4wPAbnW1o9BboMAjCD6r5szOmdUI4FuKYpC1gP1W0JPI-IMRYK20fNWby1WtjcQ2f7OOJc4ByvjjhcYM80ZcrEU5jcbdWbCQovxvSjj37Ui9tXSCrN7oTjJmavQ=s1280" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzN1EuzqxK36vo7n4M76e_sayvVnt7J8MViur504dA_vw7BPZTwTuqUzGBuJwCBlc4wPAbnW1o9BboMAjCD6r5szOmdUI4FuKYpC1gP1W0JPI-IMRYK20fNWby1WtjcQ2f7OOJc4ByvjjhcYM80ZcrEU5jcbdWbCQovxvSjj37Ui9tXSCrN7oTjJmavQ=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>The back cover of "Goodnight Brew".</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9o2FnQEmNqVjs7AMHzk4TiM3x92lryccaR96UbCB1cgQv57cxXtcyuSBM_70tte_thPFF3e4Aqt4tXYu33QLVHkNwEeUlfjdvmyb8VQLBY_tOvybGc8DJ8XkZElVwyR8Xo3SnZILl-pEHbezS4_PIWn5kzpmYUiDdMIC7hlalv7MPOqPG3eS6-3UEsA=s457" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="305" data-original-width="457" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9o2FnQEmNqVjs7AMHzk4TiM3x92lryccaR96UbCB1cgQv57cxXtcyuSBM_70tte_thPFF3e4Aqt4tXYu33QLVHkNwEeUlfjdvmyb8VQLBY_tOvybGc8DJ8XkZElVwyR8Xo3SnZILl-pEHbezS4_PIWn5kzpmYUiDdMIC7hlalv7MPOqPG3eS6-3UEsA=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">The front & back inscription from Author <br />Nic Stone</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2wzzYqC8p1hhotXgR8-35yCyJdlOrMjhZ-DF_dYcMUuY6qZXRsRN1T-OvruDD5wHQtibTcXmOWt-zCZF-xURDZP_o7ExRnICJ5gmdMEJdr2AbMCA3ioGIV7t24Sj2A47ANQU-jCq-eM3ClYcuEsYchtzoGQfQOhZkyPoyqR86EC7wDCqrfwM-px0aRg=s1280" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><br /></a></div></div>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-84399874953215104292022-01-11T11:48:00.001-05:002022-01-14T12:02:02.581-05:00Don't Mind Me, Just Passing Through the Pelvis<p>If ever we needed additional preparation for our forthcoming child, this past week definitely put us through the ringer. </p><p>On Wednesday we sat through a two-hour webinar after work on nursing & breast feeding which was interesting to a point. Though I did find myself nodding off for a moment or two a few times, it didn't help that the gray cat (Whiskey) was curled up asleep and purring away in my lap. Jokingly, L wondered why I wasn't interested in seeing all the boobs. There were a lot of boobs....A LOT of boobs. Afterwards, I had to find the energy to squeeze in a five mile run in the dark, arctic night. The run was the easy part. It was the waking myself up to brave the initial blast of the single digit temps that made it difficult.</p><p></p><div style="text-align: left;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi0yoiCd8AiVmWKd_MrFpTYuHERobHEgEjhVMdDrzP4DmEgEj0Lob-hklgOYBXYicWNhtvWkCrXzUe8fogC0swI1Wt8BQn4tqKtyCLUtRHu5mxaKgaYUqF0W5bB82YTvFkGGo7L_nu6fEZvAqeMYgKRqIni_Jkh7yrooQ_Yn8tA8qBaV38Tw_Mq8hhdcg=s871" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="836" data-original-width="871" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi0yoiCd8AiVmWKd_MrFpTYuHERobHEgEjhVMdDrzP4DmEgEj0Lob-hklgOYBXYicWNhtvWkCrXzUe8fogC0swI1Wt8BQn4tqKtyCLUtRHu5mxaKgaYUqF0W5bB82YTvFkGGo7L_nu6fEZvAqeMYgKRqIni_Jkh7yrooQ_Yn8tA8qBaV38Tw_Mq8hhdcg=w283-h272" width="283" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Fun with birthing class</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Then on Saturday, we spent six hours at <a href="https://www.ohiohealth.com/locations/hospitals/dublin-methodist-hospital"><i>Dublin Methodist</i></a> attending a birthing class. We joined two other couples who are also expecting in February. Maybe it was the standard dress for a cold, January Saturday morning, but we three fathers-to-be were all wearing jeans and a hoodie. Again, we encountered plenty of welcomed advice and tips which were greatly appreciated. Among the educational pieces were a number of videos that entailed gobs of valuable information, but also generated images we wish we didn't have to see...several times.</div><p></p><p>Remember <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0386676/"><i>The Office</i></a> episode when Michael walked into the delivery room where Pam was giving birth and immediately exited with the phrase,<i> <a href="https://tenor.com/view/the-office-michael-scott-gotta-go-wash-my-eyes-wash-my-eyes-my-eyes-gif-19438781">"Gotta go wash my eyes.</a>" </i>Yeah, imagine that, but about 20 or so times. On the drive home, L was trying to come up with an explanation for some of the things we saw and asked, <i>"Do I look like that?" </i>I was happy to tell her - and truthfully - no, no you do not. It was, however, pretty satisfying to watch the parents in the videos welcoming their newborns into the world and we couldn't help imagine what it would be like for us in the next month or so.</p><p>The birthing class nurse did remind us that the moms need to focus on getting rest and this is where I gave L the stink eye because this is something I tell her constantly. Though, Sunday did us no favors. Her Steelers needed to win to give themselves a shot at the playoffs and they did, but with a field goal in overtime which caused some unwanted stress for her. For Pittsburgh to officially make the playoffs, the Sunday night game between the Raiders and Chargers could not end in a tie - which rarely happens.</p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj6TbOY5LgLW1C4mUB6auHYD-f5XnkhjVRVU-1nJpRUIAhnZNH5Npub0vFm4PglOsDKYTzTMggP8ml64GeM2OOeIAWBP_212zsKi5d7qy_lUbYYZ0CnULFpg2zMugSPrs3Qc-ZlZERSovwgPwHa4AUrbVgKHhWspekZUqkXQUKb7UEoARR2KbKmeqYnfw=s1280" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj6TbOY5LgLW1C4mUB6auHYD-f5XnkhjVRVU-1nJpRUIAhnZNH5Npub0vFm4PglOsDKYTzTMggP8ml64GeM2OOeIAWBP_212zsKi5d7qy_lUbYYZ0CnULFpg2zMugSPrs3Qc-ZlZERSovwgPwHa4AUrbVgKHhWspekZUqkXQUKb7UEoARR2KbKmeqYnfw=w226-h301" width="226" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photuris, Photinus, Pupa Pale x 3<br />at The Fermented Firefly</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Despite having a 15 point lead with less than 5 minutes to go, the Chargers scored twice (and added a 2pt conversion) with the second touchdown coming as time expired to send it to overtime. L is now cursing and yelling at anyone to score. It was an out-of-body experience to hear her beg for whomever had the ball to score a touchdown and/or throw a pick-six, and for either defense to strip, scoop & score - ALL AT THE SAME TIME. She didn't care just somebody score some damn points! <p></p><p>As you can imagine, it came down to the Raiders kicking a field goal with two seconds left in overtime to have the game NOT end in a tie. So much for rest, we went to bed near 1am with work coming just a handful of hours later - but Pittsburgh is in the playoffs....somehow. My Bengals will now get to host the Raiders in their playoff game next weekend, me thinks I'm now jinxed.</p><p></p>All of this as I attempt to complete Columbus Running Company's <a href="https://www.columbusrunning.com/training/inspire-columbus/"><i>Inspire Columbus Winter Challenge.</i></a> It is a commitment to yourself to run or walk at least one mile
outdoors every day in January. You log your miles and have opportunities to win prizes along the way. <div><br /></div><div>Sounds like an easy thing to do, but forcing yourself to squeeze in a few miles each day with less than human weather going on and mostly in the dark (usually an after work thing for me) is a testament to one's will and desire. I'm used to taking at least two days off each week during the rest of the year, so in order to keep from going overboard on this challenge I try to replace the off days with short jaunts. So far, so good on my end but the recent super cold spell is making it tougher to get started each day.</div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiEjvYYuc1lJMcKMdcxRjwkrVIsWFPUBZ45va0muONt_I3sYPhbqrVWCILdmkuiMi5YgZn67U1IQeBgxu6TAJQDTzLswXri9Ovl1DMo4QPVpw6AuIw2c-nRDSfXpTmh9CqcHY1U6QoDAyc_w1-XfTYbrZjP3x-rt1q6vs6RpZpc_gGW9I5r3By4ZOjDXg=s768" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="768" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiEjvYYuc1lJMcKMdcxRjwkrVIsWFPUBZ45va0muONt_I3sYPhbqrVWCILdmkuiMi5YgZn67U1IQeBgxu6TAJQDTzLswXri9Ovl1DMo4QPVpw6AuIw2c-nRDSfXpTmh9CqcHY1U6QoDAyc_w1-XfTYbrZjP3x-rt1q6vs6RpZpc_gGW9I5r3By4ZOjDXg=w261-h174" width="261" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>35 weeks & baby is the size of a lean, mean,<br />fat reducing, grilling machine</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table>I had signed up for the <a href="https://www.frigid5kseries.com/"><i>Fantastic Frigid 5k Series</i></a>, but race #1 ended up being on the same day as the birthing class. I did pick up a pretty cool event shirt, but race #2 will take place on January 22nd of which I should be able to take part. These are apart of the larger, inaugural, <a href="https://runcolumbusraceseries.com/"><i>RunColumbus Race Series</i></a>, a year-long series of races in Central Ohio where you earn points with each completed event and battle for age group titles and such. We will see how many I will be able to take part in as the year progresses. #MettleMonday <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p>Also on Saturday, I bottled the beer I created for the arrival of Russell. And to our delight, it looks, smells and tastes as I had hoped. It should be ready to pop open when our son decides to grace us with his presence. And it will be nice to have some substance to go along with the fun label created for the occasion here at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CRAIGnBLAZER17"><i>The Fermented Firefly</i></a>.</p><p>So according to the baby app we use, the boy's arrival is expected in about 5 weeks - give or take - and is the size of your standard <a href="https://foremangrillrecipes.com/best-george-foreman-grills/"><i>George Foreman Grill</i></a>. It has become real enough that L has a hospital bag or two packed and ready to go on a moments notice, so the butterflies are in full force. I don't think anyone is ever expertly prepared for having a child, but I think we are prepared enough that the unexpected <i>is</i> our expectation. We are ready to<i> not</i> be ready for the smoothest, bumpy ride (or the bumpiest, smooth ride) imaginable. </p><p>R.O.K.S is preparing to land, T-minus 35 days, or so, and counting....</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXixPZ1lBPY"><i><b>Michael Buble -A Foggy Day in London Town</b></i></a></p><div style="text-align: center;"><i>A foggy day in London Town</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Had me low and had me down</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I viewed the morning with alarm</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The British Museum had lost its charm</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>How long, I wondered, could this thing last?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But the age of miracles hadn't passed,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>For, suddenly, I saw you there</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And through foggy London Town</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The sun was shining everywhere.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>A foggy day in London Town</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Had me low and had me down</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I viewed the morning with alarm</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The British Museum had lost its charm</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>How long, I wondered, could this thing last?</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But the age of miracles hadn't passed,</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>For, suddenly, I saw you there</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And through foggy London Town</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The sun was shining everywhere.</i></div><p><br /></p></div>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-77220484148246643922021-12-31T19:08:00.003-05:002022-01-07T16:39:26.430-05:00Nobody Puts Baby in a Lunch Box!<p>As the last month of 2021 rolled around, I was really close to reaching the 1,600 mile plateau for the year. So I put some effort into reaching that milestone, while turning 46 just before Christmas, with the full knowledge that squeezing in a similar amount of miles in 2022 was not likely with the amount of attention our baby would require when he arrives in February.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEixygFtCaB8FXNofyFjtmx0Vxdnj7Qh210HQlhqdUP50_VfX0UUtCCjkxjd7R-F3SsgjMClUXQDedhK5Be80nOf_qHJRUbNHLgaaP7yIZbHpj2bK6xFvOgAKQBV7ax3Jno5FqkQmX5x1_qzviWVPMQP_danwqQ-2v8T827IHmOZGASaKh-kado1flsZ4w=s600" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEixygFtCaB8FXNofyFjtmx0Vxdnj7Qh210HQlhqdUP50_VfX0UUtCCjkxjd7R-F3SsgjMClUXQDedhK5Be80nOf_qHJRUbNHLgaaP7yIZbHpj2bK6xFvOgAKQBV7ax3Jno5FqkQmX5x1_qzviWVPMQP_danwqQ-2v8T827IHmOZGASaKh-kado1flsZ4w=s320" width="320" /></a></div>Speaking of, our latest digital update on the future baby Russell is that he is the size of a lunch box. And, of course, the example image sent to us is a lunch box depicting the original <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><i>Space Jam</i></a> movie from 1996. This comes a week after Russell's size was compared to that of a <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#"><i>Care Bear</i></a>. Yes, the objects are becoming more obscure as the weeks go by.</div><p></p><p>We get the idea of giving folks tangible objects to better understand the shape & size of the fetus as time moves along, but someone with a lesser grasp of life & reality could easily misinterpret the fact that a tiny human will soon be exiting another human relatively soon (about 49 days). Could they at least put a drawing of the fetus next to the similar-sized objects? I'd rather not see Russ as a Go-Gurt, thermos of tomato soup & bologna sandwich or the monetization of a character created by a Cleveland-based greeting card company.</p><p></p><p></p><p>So 2021 ended with my mile counter reaching 1,600.9 on the last day - New Year's Eve, out distancing 2020 by about 90 miles. And 2022 will begin with the <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Powell/RearViewMirror20205kInPersonANDVirtual"><i>Rear-View Mirror 5k</i></a> on New Year's Day, the same as 2021. Though, the race last year was cancelled due to freezing rain and subsequent iced over course. L and I then jogged the course since we had already arrived and yes, the course was crazy slippery and I could not imagine having to run on it. This year, however, I will be doing the race by myself because at this time in 2021 L wasn't 34 weeks pregnant. We are expecting rain, but around 50 degrees...can't complain for an outdoor January race in Central Ohio. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhVpO7Zy-38-eGUXLj69DOrPtul6FliMiRdqHHFTFy8tTI5t5HpvdBHI4LYPJkV6xXpZyU5JhCIey9DAveTTdXWbwuzNk2y8L59A2yhJxOis4zwtY67Hc5rFiTa7y3ayHCjGcz-ZOUZxrU2yZTJZ6fuFsEvtZegETH6KumobP1jUB8H6K8ZyjXDwfGwYQ=s230" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="190" data-original-width="230" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhVpO7Zy-38-eGUXLj69DOrPtul6FliMiRdqHHFTFy8tTI5t5HpvdBHI4LYPJkV6xXpZyU5JhCIey9DAveTTdXWbwuzNk2y8L59A2yhJxOis4zwtY67Hc5rFiTa7y3ayHCjGcz-ZOUZxrU2yZTJZ6fuFsEvtZegETH6KumobP1jUB8H6K8ZyjXDwfGwYQ" width="230" /></a></div><p>The return to running for me began in the summer of 2016 and each year since, my yearly mileage has increased: <b>2017</b>: <i>1,256</i>, <b>2018</b>: <i>1,301</i>, <b>2019</b>: <i>1357</i>, <b>2020</b>: <i>1,510</i> and <i>1,600.9 </i>in <b>2021</b>. I'm sure 2022 will be a decline, but I will be more than happy to replace those miles with fatherhood. Though, I will be just as exhausted mentally as would be physically - and then some - attempting to care for our coming offspring. And our yearly February trip to <i><u><a href="https://www.southhaven.org/">South Haven, Michigan</a></u></i> for the <i><u><a href="https://www.southhavenmi.com/pages/IceBreaker">Ice Breaker Festival</a></u></i> and <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/SouthHaven/BreaktheIce5KandFrostyDash?remMeAttempt=" style="font-style: italic;">Break the Ice 5k</a> to celebrate L's birthday will have to be put on hold, but as you can imagine we will be excited to visit again in 2023 with the third member of our family.</p><p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/CRAIGnBLAZER17/" style="font-style: italic;">The Fermented Firefly</a> is all abuzz with what the future holds. Previously up in the air on where we are going, what we want to do and where we want to be...I think we now have a better grasp of things. ROKS is seven weeks away and we are gladly cruising around our forever cul-de-sac.... #MettleMonday </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><i><u><b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ErjlvA9Bcc">Forever Cul-De-Sac by Ages and Ages</a></b></u></i><o:p></o:p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I came up in a cul-de-sac:</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Neighborhood houses evenly placed</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And spread out all around until I couldn't see out</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And the "world" was a word I picked up in a textbook</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I tried to relate, it was hard to embrace</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Because it seemed so far away</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And I want to have vision</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But I can't see out</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Caught in this cul-de-sac</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Round and round</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I want to have vision</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But I can't see out</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Caught in this cul-de-sac</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Up and down</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I want to have vision</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But I can't see out</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Riding this cul-de-sac</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Round and round</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I want to have vision</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But I can't see out</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Caught in this cul-de-sac</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And no matter how hard</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>That they try to convince you</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>They don't approve if it isn't familiar</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Because they don't want</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>What they can't understand</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And you're either a target or trying to find one</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So why go in circles at all</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If it's out of your hands??</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(I want to have vision</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But I can't see out</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Caught in this cul-de-sac</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Round and round...)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Always I am only</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Going round and round</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>On this cul-de-sac to nowhere...</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><u><br /></u></b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><u><br /></u></b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b><u>Photos</u> </b></i></div><p style="text-align: center;"><i></i></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgqlqzimP_NI7-CXasQ432DLyUOkR9yHICW6TvCQwDnUS2kf3B6G2OcJolXNq1_MU2dbCAwL3q4u8IwcXuFXAniLCleYtuihuwk7tU0Gkpna_IVle_2vBFm2XPCamt_1UO1HxlBpSYKFZnJ-cAUEkvMHQ9InWcOQP2D-IwTpZm1o2qHCVEIReWPPovqbg=s600" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgqlqzimP_NI7-CXasQ432DLyUOkR9yHICW6TvCQwDnUS2kf3B6G2OcJolXNq1_MU2dbCAwL3q4u8IwcXuFXAniLCleYtuihuwk7tU0Gkpna_IVle_2vBFm2XPCamt_1UO1HxlBpSYKFZnJ-cAUEkvMHQ9InWcOQP2D-IwTpZm1o2qHCVEIReWPPovqbg=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>The beer created to celebrate Russell's <br />February 2022 arrival</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><i><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjh9naFSokZhE1FJ13pdnCpMaejjtcvBBajbweaG9dzVQNbMd_CCmdWTrfBQwDO4mHp9QiiOLekzaryW6xB2rHfmz98XXRzh_d-Ouke9QO9GO5o_VoWR7pguAUhq2NZ1jLY7sY4fRlIUMjiuBv2slPACPS5UHLHbzn6pfe8ZnJMUB_iRL4eTFV5FkiU9w=s2048" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjh9naFSokZhE1FJ13pdnCpMaejjtcvBBajbweaG9dzVQNbMd_CCmdWTrfBQwDO4mHp9QiiOLekzaryW6xB2rHfmz98XXRzh_d-Ouke9QO9GO5o_VoWR7pguAUhq2NZ1jLY7sY4fRlIUMjiuBv2slPACPS5UHLHbzn6pfe8ZnJMUB_iRL4eTFV5FkiU9w=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Goofing off at the extended family<br />Christmas eve gathering. The hat <br />belongs to my uncle</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjnZSCjhZupBOSqe1d2-7r-ynV-0T80sjm7a8zAnMBknhXl-WNUTANC5eYgdqXHMyQvkffMiUYCl37fPcOQquHIX-ZWZLNZimpxZWGF8UMB4q79EJ3yOkupeHHrxwfqp_u_JLdLfxntZXQsk8TuI810av5ALzSb2OCd7QVI8eVoXA2x0fdgaoDcfClPDQ=s2048" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjnZSCjhZupBOSqe1d2-7r-ynV-0T80sjm7a8zAnMBknhXl-WNUTANC5eYgdqXHMyQvkffMiUYCl37fPcOQquHIX-ZWZLNZimpxZWGF8UMB4q79EJ3yOkupeHHrxwfqp_u_JLdLfxntZXQsk8TuI810av5ALzSb2OCd7QVI8eVoXA2x0fdgaoDcfClPDQ=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Adjusted our logo, for L, to celebrate<br />Russell's arrival</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmJtvQgByYxE7DsaklvtFxxEq070QcAfXvFbn_wCMaYgsFmM5RSeQsH4aUDvk1_8kWA9RmSbpYcgIQLdzbZOZo5i8G4USAD0kslUctrEFcyEqjs0EITVtM61svutK4HKgVk-F4WolHRggUAPzpfm_Rmuka1ZLYLRU1AjVAkt9lzyVTLVVSKN1R0mAtqg=s701" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="526" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhmJtvQgByYxE7DsaklvtFxxEq070QcAfXvFbn_wCMaYgsFmM5RSeQsH4aUDvk1_8kWA9RmSbpYcgIQLdzbZOZo5i8G4USAD0kslUctrEFcyEqjs0EITVtM61svutK4HKgVk-F4WolHRggUAPzpfm_Rmuka1ZLYLRU1AjVAkt9lzyVTLVVSKN1R0mAtqg=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>The Christmas ham at the in-laws with<br />secret glaze, 'twas tasty!</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjcXPvRr1FFjSd7IPAnTd-Z7JgxMSM1yTwRslSEvkxz92i3c07CEqCmHuPg-02Cke2vNUqdhICdZtAjIP049PZMMfqUooBopbvilaDb7_2kENWNdjbYU9wkNA0K2iZEcB4Mqa6h00qKMjDyEqVg3k2cixmhpaYk7ihe0ZBpDmB8fE-urAt2cLwVA6Szlw=s2048" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjcXPvRr1FFjSd7IPAnTd-Z7JgxMSM1yTwRslSEvkxz92i3c07CEqCmHuPg-02Cke2vNUqdhICdZtAjIP049PZMMfqUooBopbvilaDb7_2kENWNdjbYU9wkNA0K2iZEcB4Mqa6h00qKMjDyEqVg3k2cixmhpaYk7ihe0ZBpDmB8fE-urAt2cLwVA6Szlw=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>The other side of the mug</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjV62KsJf0nwbe6qdMlHi99sPaFp2kMLc4eFFYOBKU4KImMHHbuWU_LurPX08NYhlvyceTcu5IzPe-o8_jqH5m_R7A8RrdJE8u5IglPLEjdXGYq7pM-RCXRQcgtJ8AcyPuk_GsRGvjRPADOnR7Aaf9OiCFQv2ueMFvJsxW1ZIQnoB_qo-J5_krqztX7wA=s624" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="624" data-original-width="468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjV62KsJf0nwbe6qdMlHi99sPaFp2kMLc4eFFYOBKU4KImMHHbuWU_LurPX08NYhlvyceTcu5IzPe-o8_jqH5m_R7A8RrdJE8u5IglPLEjdXGYq7pM-RCXRQcgtJ8AcyPuk_GsRGvjRPADOnR7Aaf9OiCFQv2ueMFvJsxW1ZIQnoB_qo-J5_krqztX7wA=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">L tolerating my goofing off. Russell,<br />thankful the womb is keeping him from <br />this awful display.</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><br /></b></i><p></p><p><br /></p><p></p>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-4947465186431375582021-11-16T10:26:00.002-05:002021-11-18T18:32:41.125-05:00The Shape of Things to Come<p>Two trimesters down, one to go. </p><p>You know back in June when we discovered we were finally pregnant, it all seemed so far away and we we would be semi-prepared when everything started getting "real". Well, we <i>are</i>...in a sense. Though, one can't help but feel sorely unprepared because you have made another human who will be arriving when it's cooking time reaches the pinnacle in mid-February. We aren't freaking out, but the constant reminders of what will soon be coming makes you take a step back and try to comprehend the gravity of it all.</p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59IZHcEaXA6M3weFRwN1cvwLbb9kJ2WIFX2rjcuIcA_N8nhpcxA76QoNrRQo_c9RkaMGK31GiX-kbEH_abgDgNenx-c4P5eq8vuMukhRJPpxNxAc7lN_szY_zhz8QOYBW6DtiGO-4HetL/s600/26-weeks-pregnant-VHS-tape-newsletter.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59IZHcEaXA6M3weFRwN1cvwLbb9kJ2WIFX2rjcuIcA_N8nhpcxA76QoNrRQo_c9RkaMGK31GiX-kbEH_abgDgNenx-c4P5eq8vuMukhRJPpxNxAc7lN_szY_zhz8QOYBW6DtiGO-4HetL/s320/26-weeks-pregnant-VHS-tape-newsletter.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Seriously, this was their graphic</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table>We have an online registry for friends and family to peruse as they please and to help us out, the registry will send a weekly update as to what is taking place inside the womb and how your baby is evolving. This past week we were alerted that our child will be arriving in roughly 98 days and baby is starting to develop regular sleep and wake patterns (It might feel like they’re always active while you’re sleeping!). And our little one is also building up important immunities to
protect against the outside world after birth.<p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p></p><div style="text-align: left;">Oh...and that our forthcoming offspring is about the size of a VHS tape case....<i>hmmm</i>....okay. Our joke was that the newsletter was aware that I'm older than L and they needed to come up with an object they thought I would better understand. Not weird at all. Though, I rue the day I'm forced to watch <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Little_Mermaid_(1989_film)">The Little Mermaid</a> (released in 1989). </i>Some adult <i>"cough medicine"</i> may need to be involved.</div><p></p><p>For L, she is struggling to keep from attempting everything on her personal to-do list. Her body, of course, is not allowing her to be the superwoman she is and she isn't happy about it. This is where I remind her that the situation is temporary and the simple fact that I exist - so <i>I</i> can do the things she feels<i> she</i> has to do. And, these pleas are regularly ignored. Not frustrating, at all, for either one of us.</p><p>She, still though, has been quite active and since running has become an uncomfortable experience, a walking routine has entered the picture. Understandable, but she misses running. In September, and three months pregnant, she bested 160 competitors at the<a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Columbus/Kilbourne5KandFunRun"><i> Kilbourne 5K</i></a>. She then beat 229 other women - and 305 people total - at the <a href="https://www.hollandhavenmarathon.com/"><i>Holland Haven Half Marathon</i></a> in Holland, Michigan. So she isn't a push over, just pregnant. I don't know what that feels like, nor do I want to, but I can't imagine not being able to go for a run <i>as well as</i> being a human incubator.</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVP-EOi8g78f_7wApPwHnQ9Zx0LmWzql5Lmim3FzMcEIwCX5sh9oPEKUY0kwo3U7nlE_AH5dFjobWunHP532Z6ONxgtstLurXJcG-IEYG1bpyw8WXu3CF0o-XnFAW1UjPsQJssbw-0e201/s2048/242117766_10158177245867665_4463057241301307243_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVP-EOi8g78f_7wApPwHnQ9Zx0LmWzql5Lmim3FzMcEIwCX5sh9oPEKUY0kwo3U7nlE_AH5dFjobWunHP532Z6ONxgtstLurXJcG-IEYG1bpyw8WXu3CF0o-XnFAW1UjPsQJssbw-0e201/s320/242117766_10158177245867665_4463057241301307243_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Our last Michigan photo as two</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table>Speaking of that tiny person, when we returned from the trip to <i><a href="https://www.holland.org/">Holland</a> & <a href="https://visitgrandhaven.com/">Grand Haven, Michigan</a></i> we discovered we would be HAVING A BOY! And that boy's name will be Russell. The name has no other significance other than we like it, though it is appropriate that probably my favorite movie series are the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Lampoon%27s_Vacation_(film_series)"><i>National Lampoon Vacation films</i></a> and Chevy Chase's son in those films is named "Russ".<p></p><p></p>Our last night in Michigan, and hanging out on the pier in Grand Haven, we watched the sunset. As we were leaving and before the sun disappeared, L started to cry, but they were happy tears. It was the realization that this would be the last vacation, to our favorite place, as two. <p></p><p>If there was ever something that could have knocked me down regarding the enormity of reproducing, that was it. The wondering, thinking, imagining and scaring the bejesus out of myself has been non-stop and cranked up to a thousand since.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64K4VXosYv0AelSocSTXoYF36zRFFq89T3Gcc5dXZpRnh4g2TwyNTVTAN17J7hYc8zIOrBQ-9PvLTbxyco8bi8TTFVHrlKoMAEOM-D90rZMWxt7GEQAR8iA7ZAh1N4a-N-QfM2ENHZR6k/s320/66666.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="282" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh64K4VXosYv0AelSocSTXoYF36zRFFq89T3Gcc5dXZpRnh4g2TwyNTVTAN17J7hYc8zIOrBQ-9PvLTbxyco8bi8TTFVHrlKoMAEOM-D90rZMWxt7GEQAR8iA7ZAh1N4a-N-QfM2ENHZR6k/s0/66666.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>The process of gathering and preparing for Russell has taken over as we also work around the upcoming holidays. I am still running, much to L's chagrin, though as it begins to get colder, I'm sure she isn't going to complain too much. She did have to return to her former self as a race spectator as I took part in the <a href="https://www.columbusmarathon.com/"><i>Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Half Marathon</i></a> in October and the both of us are entering the <a href="https://www.bikesignup.com/Race/OH/GroveCity/ThanksgivingWattle"><i>Grove City Thanksgiving Wattle 5k </i></a>at the end of the month, though she plans on walking it with a variety of others. <br /><p></p><p></p>A mid-November blast of winter took place a Sunday when we decided to run/walk at <a href="https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/prairie-oaks/"><i>Prairie Oaks Metro Park</i></a>. A nice snow fall made the venture quite peaceful as we scared up a number of slumbering deer. The snow didn't last long, but it was a little reminder of what we can also expect in the weeks & months ahead.<div><br /><div>As for Russell's arrival, there has been plenty of advice from co-workers as two of them have had new arrivals within the last four months, but at the moment I think we need to prepare our cats for the loud and sometimes smelly bundle of joy. Plastic bags scare the crap out of them now, I can't imagine how they would react to what amounts to a smoke alarm with an inadequate off button.<p></p><p></p><p>Soon, I will start making the beer to signify the arrival of the third human member of our family. I created the label over the summer using a photo I took from one of our many trips to that state up north. There will be plenty of time to work on it as I take some time off in December. This is a yearly break for me as I use the time to celebrate my birthday as well as Christmas and spend time with family we don't get to see much of during the rest of the year. I guess it will also be one last time to reflect and ready ourselves for the stretch run of the pregnancy without work interruption.</p><p>It is all coming together, being molded I guess you could say, for the shape of things to come...</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnqLyC5t6GQ"><i><b>The Shape of Things to Come - The Grip Weeds</b></i></a></p><div style="text-align: center;"><i>There's a new sun</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Risin' up angry in the sky</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And there's a new voice</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Sayin' "we're not afraid to die"</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Let the old world make believe</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>It's blind and deaf and dumb</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But nothing can change the shape of things to come</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>There are changes</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Lyin' ahead in every road</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And there are new thoughts</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ready and waiting to explode</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>When tomorrow is today</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The bells may toll for some</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>But nothing can change the shape of things to come</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The future's comin' in, now</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Sweet and strong</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ain't no-one gonna hold it back for long</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>There are new dreams</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Crowdin' out old realities</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>There's revolution</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Sweepin' in like a fresh new breeze</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Let the old world make believe</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>It's blind and deaf and dumb</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>nothing can change the shape of things [Repeat: x4]</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>To come</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 90%; margin-bottom: 0in;"><o:p></o:p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ChinszgAPNMLr3fg0peFWIMGSxPPBGnqOzI9r9qfW3NYmRA3wBE-USEFfx_oqT5zcdqaT_RkMF8ASfXp5XABHk1p8Bdfk21CJCZrpM5T3cwBAMX6a7UR0PnhZJ1_rj6hdS3cFLngaYFR/s701/241851540_505652677453051_4296024490737107214_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="526" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ChinszgAPNMLr3fg0peFWIMGSxPPBGnqOzI9r9qfW3NYmRA3wBE-USEFfx_oqT5zcdqaT_RkMF8ASfXp5XABHk1p8Bdfk21CJCZrpM5T3cwBAMX6a7UR0PnhZJ1_rj6hdS3cFLngaYFR/s320/241851540_505652677453051_4296024490737107214_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Even on vacation at our B&B, <br />I attract the cats</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHYzFzZWf_1hf5rgH_QJsnB7H5Va2Hf5OP9ndg9vun-3srTbVaPJcwvKZNHdIoDy5zWaydIm9KQqjvwCyJuKSwSSUmCdAlVYvQkCiAdsBzOC2DJ8Mc0iwfXtYr4eI8Uw47wOMIjAOaIKdb/s960/242085402_10158178114187665_5015908621424928053_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="948" data-original-width="960" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHYzFzZWf_1hf5rgH_QJsnB7H5Va2Hf5OP9ndg9vun-3srTbVaPJcwvKZNHdIoDy5zWaydIm9KQqjvwCyJuKSwSSUmCdAlVYvQkCiAdsBzOC2DJ8Mc0iwfXtYr4eI8Uw47wOMIjAOaIKdb/s320/242085402_10158178114187665_5015908621424928053_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Holland Haven Half Marathon finish</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXTkMS1rJdgw4nN1EysXGVBn-468904JzodS4Z4ZitI66r3cqK9gJZ_PYG7vVI2O9yDUdK4yh5FIELF_o4cjb-YhoOPhlXnOU2WHCNaHKXTUdvS98-RDyPB7lbZ5XqQMsBu5W12tRA4jik/s2048/242123212_10158177246272665_4060365358107932631_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1638" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXTkMS1rJdgw4nN1EysXGVBn-468904JzodS4Z4ZitI66r3cqK9gJZ_PYG7vVI2O9yDUdK4yh5FIELF_o4cjb-YhoOPhlXnOU2WHCNaHKXTUdvS98-RDyPB7lbZ5XqQMsBu5W12tRA4jik/s320/242123212_10158177246272665_4060365358107932631_n.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Grand Haven Lighthouse</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2Y0cIec55a2JItWiYdiZ5zTiLxwdBgCX-7Hugw8P0z3q_fqV0LuNF_EexoyzKaeYSBjKnnug4g4to4jWgu8XzEXPeUARfbRiYBOEROVwT10dJ3VerLnapTt4wUqpQvJXgHV0PHEcmVSr/s720/242165608_10158178103337665_9056808362687026799_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2Y0cIec55a2JItWiYdiZ5zTiLxwdBgCX-7Hugw8P0z3q_fqV0LuNF_EexoyzKaeYSBjKnnug4g4to4jWgu8XzEXPeUARfbRiYBOEROVwT10dJ3VerLnapTt4wUqpQvJXgHV0PHEcmVSr/s320/242165608_10158178103337665_9056808362687026799_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Our B&B outdoor breakfast nook</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVCY0Qd37nZ7V_bWHqAUIrWlGCVleH-MEOyRw5-OYah_WaFHrlMqT9dHkcYdrTS9gNlCcSChpikm1HAwH_KbhcQzkH-rThnOgRZRdEWmQ0DD7EBQ6cNxKkV95EYXObrLN8rm8ZlqXkxOs/s705/244423971_275375637929564_5199710768073580225_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="705" data-original-width="526" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVCY0Qd37nZ7V_bWHqAUIrWlGCVleH-MEOyRw5-OYah_WaFHrlMqT9dHkcYdrTS9gNlCcSChpikm1HAwH_KbhcQzkH-rThnOgRZRdEWmQ0DD7EBQ6cNxKkV95EYXObrLN8rm8ZlqXkxOs/s320/244423971_275375637929564_5199710768073580225_n.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">L, and Russell, at <br />Branstool Orchards</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcqzlhtCUU_ikJmNBjSIwcCFkFA62kxii1sJ_HKdXOzMoPy4JCWGU5__789j1dwLfbM73Nq4VHAjLW1DmOKpRUtLOF_-UskcJdUU3TXf8txrquYWGuoTiQ9uk_6cWl11MpCH3Irwf-kDsd/s640/246425067_288181276649000_4883114360084392169_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="427" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcqzlhtCUU_ikJmNBjSIwcCFkFA62kxii1sJ_HKdXOzMoPy4JCWGU5__789j1dwLfbM73Nq4VHAjLW1DmOKpRUtLOF_-UskcJdUU3TXf8txrquYWGuoTiQ9uk_6cWl11MpCH3Irwf-kDsd/s320/246425067_288181276649000_4883114360084392169_n.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Finishing the Nationwide Children's<br />Columbus Half Marathon</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxFFDV4rwqf2usFPJXa9TgPIz3u2mUOVBn4pWaBarLd4ahD0tqvd1SJnUqeNiGOfhMnUhcvNzep7ywkWS3B8lQExRltO81bzfrzsn7nZGe52ff79AP0Ql4Sm6ssgjyR1Q4Ssvc8Kbqss3/s2048/257202062_10158272246447665_3460965251552606028_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxFFDV4rwqf2usFPJXa9TgPIz3u2mUOVBn4pWaBarLd4ahD0tqvd1SJnUqeNiGOfhMnUhcvNzep7ywkWS3B8lQExRltO81bzfrzsn7nZGe52ff79AP0Ql4Sm6ssgjyR1Q4Ssvc8Kbqss3/s320/257202062_10158272246447665_3460965251552606028_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>After a mid-November walk at <br />Prairie Oaks Metro Park</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3lIXQFDkL0iDB6Aayq6B5xGOs9l7tECdgy3ZEPjwd04WSLBb_HMY2shc8sQgl3QrmJwxO0MHjLRodLfhTAyRODXn46ORo06_n0XVPjNxPTJtbO9ewp78wTc6h3J6kc5UVPTNKAR3c5sV-/s2048/257221811_10158272246642665_5132164240361091784_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3lIXQFDkL0iDB6Aayq6B5xGOs9l7tECdgy3ZEPjwd04WSLBb_HMY2shc8sQgl3QrmJwxO0MHjLRodLfhTAyRODXn46ORo06_n0XVPjNxPTJtbO9ewp78wTc6h3J6kc5UVPTNKAR3c5sV-/s320/257221811_10158272246642665_5132164240361091784_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Snow run at Prairie Oaks Metro Park</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8ZzhBgeDLqb22v8N3_Ny0U9dw8xqhcyl7J8B4PXnVAlRgRtMiWD7QXt53XZKbWLU02O21rKuCcS8nFyDCuE7WyQtsaFGz1PIZdFJpCln1pR4rKtYixDw2ka294xcxvlzBJLNHXsvm5S2/s2048/257436837_10158272246912665_5786773927949098214_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8ZzhBgeDLqb22v8N3_Ny0U9dw8xqhcyl7J8B4PXnVAlRgRtMiWD7QXt53XZKbWLU02O21rKuCcS8nFyDCuE7WyQtsaFGz1PIZdFJpCln1pR4rKtYixDw2ka294xcxvlzBJLNHXsvm5S2/s320/257436837_10158272246912665_5786773927949098214_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>The snow hung around for about half a day</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p></div></div>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-68321759912761050172021-07-19T19:01:00.008-04:002021-07-21T09:15:19.417-04:00Where the Bioluminescence Shines Brightest We had been working on it for months without any promising results and L was getting more & more frustrated. She had this routine when taking the tests. She would leave the cover on it as it sat on the counter in the bathroom and when it was time to take a look she would take off the cover, not see the result she wanted, then angrily throw it in the trash. This took place probably 12 to 15 times over the course of time.<div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2UXwABYw9EQ4Xlmaz968uNqP_fvu81UR3NfXJhIYBD0-idA8ZulN-bBBjncKw-5DjCXMqOztBtDSEBPCv0_XHViR0kjvEYFSqV8NbsBxYKKSX2JyRwZCReyuTm161dqpmd9DSl6FMxiap/s533/66666.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="469" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2UXwABYw9EQ4Xlmaz968uNqP_fvu81UR3NfXJhIYBD0-idA8ZulN-bBBjncKw-5DjCXMqOztBtDSEBPCv0_XHViR0kjvEYFSqV8NbsBxYKKSX2JyRwZCReyuTm161dqpmd9DSl6FMxiap/s320/66666.jpg" /></a></div>On June 8th, on a whim, she bought a test on the way home from work. This time the routine was interrupted by what looked to be a different result, but was it really? Maybe she was just imagining seeing something else or her eager, overanxious mind was creating a mirage to satisfy what she had been yearning for. Trying keep her feelings at bay, she waited till I came home and showed me, <i>"Am I seeing things? Or am I trying to force myself to see something different than the usual result?"</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>
"No, I don't think so. I see exactly what you see,"</i> I say - <u>still</u> - with some skepticism because it isn't 100% accurate. To assist her thinking, she sent a photo of the test to a co-worker for her opinion. The co-worker called her right back and as L answered, I could hear <i>"Oh, my god!"</i> exclaimed from across the room.</div><div><br /></div><div>The indicator was super faint, but it was there - we weren't making it up....right? After a night of examining what little facts we had regarding L's bodily function the last few weeks, she bought a test on the way home from work the next day, June 9th. As a I sat on the floor recovering from a four mile run in the humid late spring weather, L arrives and says jokingly, <i>"This one actually says <u>yes</u> or <u>no</u> and isn't left up to a line or two (that may or my not be imaginary) for you to decipher." </i> I'm in front of the box fan petting the fat, orange cat Jameson, shirtless and sweaty. Suddenly L jets from the bathroom and slides across the carpeted floor on her knees to me in her best stage performer impression, causing a frightened Jameson to do just the opposite.</div><div><br /></div><div>She has this giant smile on her face and in her hand is this magic, semi-urine soaked wand that simply reads, <i>"Pregnant"</i>. I'm half smiling and half in disbelief. Her mind now in overdrive, L begins rehashing how she has felt the last few weeks and putting together the puzzle pieces. She pauses, <i>"What is the protocol regarding who to tell and when?" </i>Seriously, she's asking me? How in the hell am I to know? <i>"Okay, first of all, I would rather have medical professional confirmation before we start telling people,"</i> I say with this weird feeling of how in the world am I the more rational one at the moment.</div><div><br /></div><div>Excited, and for good reason, she takes a deep breath and agrees. Shortly thereafter, we drive over to Blue Limestone Park (the location of our wedding two summers ago) to take a walk. Thousands of thoughts are running through my head, a few million were sprinting through L's brain. Later that evening I had to ask her to relax as she started to run down a list of things she will not be able to eat, will have to avoid, activities she will have to lessen or stop. I then apologized, but we still didn't have foolproof confirmation. Not that she, or we, couldn't talk about these things, but what I didn't want was to get excited and pumped only to have it wall washed away by a false positive. Yeah, probably me overthinking, but I was trying to be rational....right?....no? Holy crap, did we just reproduce?!??</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihHY7c2l-LtUJCBB_KFNRLny6QCsV2h2TYaWvHQQvAAwfT97p4uuvAQ8Smu0KdL_OIF4AFl3BZXt3JKRwyO4orkxAVN-BuQ2AyAOmqyZGFw9n-7O639lxiCBj2MI8K8EcAkbVzHloCXb6i/s1000/image.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="704" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihHY7c2l-LtUJCBB_KFNRLny6QCsV2h2TYaWvHQQvAAwfT97p4uuvAQ8Smu0KdL_OIF4AFl3BZXt3JKRwyO4orkxAVN-BuQ2AyAOmqyZGFw9n-7O639lxiCBj2MI8K8EcAkbVzHloCXb6i/s320/image.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>At work the next day, L drops me a text: <i>July 15th, 2:00 pm, we have an appointment the first day we are back from vacation </i>(the one we are taking with her brother & parents to the Lower & Upper Michigan Peninsula)<i>. </i>Along with it is a link titled: <i><a href="https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/how-big-is-your-baby-this-week/?fbclid=IwAR0LP5od2effMZAkwituCg74-oeLDV_-bTbrdVp6X7gQfYU0e2nQ1LyQisY">How Big Is My Baby This week? Here's Your Baby Fruit Size Chart</a>, </i>which is led by a photo of a pregnant woman weirdly smiling and holding a quarter of a watermelon at a farmer's market. <i>"If you want to read about what's happening...truly bizarre and amazing...", </i>L's follow up text states. </div><div><br /></div><div>The first paragraph, <i>"Your due date is calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period. Conception occurs about two weeks from this day, and that's when you're truly considered pregnant. In just 40 short weeks, your baby will grow from the size of a tiny seed to the size of a plump watermelon."</i> I'm still confused as to why the woman in the picture is holding a quartered watermelon and not a plump watermelon? Are they making assumptions about my 45 year-old genes?? Hopefully, the fruit of our labor will get L's giant brain - that should dispel this stupid article's perceived crass presumptions.</div><div><br /></div><div>The fun part was about to begin: my brother & sister-in-law are coming in to visit the family from Texas in about two weeks, which is then immediately followed by the Michigan vacation with L's family. How do we stick to our guns, waiting for professional confirmation, when we will be mingling with both sides of our immediate families in consecutive weeks leading up to said confirmation date. Would our secret be detected? Would we be figured out before we told them? Would our eventual news be subdued by the smart women who notice things and simply keep their mouth shut to not let the cat out of the bag and burst our balloon? Or would we lose patience and just tell them?</div><div><br /></div><div>Maybe all of the above, but we wanted to try.</div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu21Y0e-FORxKYTvhzMNUX-aQr7UggHbG8rQSufcgz3zPO7i7d70-XhFoYWcMt-kDThk51cX-F5-C8F2ZX5qM8c-vdUOQNj9HUKT9XSmMKTrsBECUMu-Qr66yxpqEsKcTNI6R7ZhrmvED_/s563/207707378_10158039542452665_849338309089184793_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="563" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu21Y0e-FORxKYTvhzMNUX-aQr7UggHbG8rQSufcgz3zPO7i7d70-XhFoYWcMt-kDThk51cX-F5-C8F2ZX5qM8c-vdUOQNj9HUKT9XSmMKTrsBECUMu-Qr66yxpqEsKcTNI6R7ZhrmvED_/w200-h200/207707378_10158039542452665_849338309089184793_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Post race pic and wearing<br />the custom singlets I designed<br />during the pandemic. The COVID<br />boredom did have some benefits</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table>And off course, we broke protocol, but it made sense. On Father's Day, we spent the afternoon with L's family and gave the fun news. From here we decided only immediate family - for the time being - would be given the details we knew. Though L was starting to feel her body adapt to the pregnancy, she was till able to join me in running the<i> <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/PlainCity/PlainCity4MileRunWalk">Plain City Four Mile Run</a></i> on June 26th. I took fourth overall and she finished 24th, even with the added burden of working through a cold passed on to her by her students at work. As a result, I'm not sure I can ever really complain about not feeling well during a race ever again.</div><div><br /></div><div>When my brother and sister-in-law visited, we broke the news and the following night at my sister's house - with all the immediate family - we did the same. There was excitement, of course, but this was also the next logical step, so it didn't come as too much of a surprise. It was satisfying to make the announcement with everyone at the same time, and in person. </div><div><br /></div><div>That weekend we made our annual camping trip to <a href="https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/east-harbor-state-park"><i>East Harbor State Park</i></a> to enjoy the Independence Day holiday. A year ago, I jokingly asked L, <i>"Is this the last time we come up here with just the two of of us?" </i> Well, technically, that did happen to be the case - just not in the out-of-the-womb sense. To add to the weekend, we ran the <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Sandusky/BoywiththeBoot"><i>Boy with the Boot 5k</i></a> that Sunday morning in nearby Sandusky. A hot, muggy morning along the Lake Erie shore was our running location and it was fun to pick up a victory, despite it not being the most competitive event in the world. Even L pulled out a second place for her age group. All in all, it added to the fishing, swimming, open fire cooking and fireworks over the Great Lake.</div><div><br /></div><div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: left; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s1600/Final+Sport.jpg" style="clear: left; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s200/Final+Sport.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><i>**We back EVERY pair with </i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><i><a href="https://shadyrays.com/pages/official-live-hard-warranty-overview" style="color: #de7008;">FREE Replacements</a> if Lost or Broken</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>**</i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: right; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s1600/DH4A7305.jpg" style="clear: right; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s200/DH4A7305.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b>**Each order also secures 11 meals </b></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b>to fight hunger through </b></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b><a href="http://fabackup.feedingamerica.org/optimized-homepage/?_ga=2.251139073.647855481.1504895789-1536808043.1504895789" style="color: #de7008;">Feeding America</a>**</b></i></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><b style="background-color: transparent;">We are an independent sunglasses company </b><span style="background-color: transparent;">for those who don't want to buy from a massive, faceless company that has been operating the same way for decades </span></b></div><div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><a href="http://shadyrays.com/" style="color: #de7008;">shadyrays.com</a></b></div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNbsHJvCu6PEDdY9xZUm6KKP-9S3bJdQYEC8SXSJwILE8DPNQUf2zMzCdAnLZtt_PwvBR0X-8P14RBq2lQzQLllhv1QwaAJGdaVNtyWmdJddo1XOL6NLwNKeG_XNS7dwCrrDZsS7vcXsf/s1600/shady+rays.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="123" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNbsHJvCu6PEDdY9xZUm6KKP-9S3bJdQYEC8SXSJwILE8DPNQUf2zMzCdAnLZtt_PwvBR0X-8P14RBq2lQzQLllhv1QwaAJGdaVNtyWmdJddo1XOL6NLwNKeG_XNS7dwCrrDZsS7vcXsf/s1600/shady+rays.png" /></a></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Just a week later was our real summer vacation, L & I went with her parents to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We stayed in </span><a href="https://stignace.com/" style="text-align: left;"><i>St. Ignace</i></a><span style="text-align: left;">, but spent five days traveling all over the UP visiting </span><i style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.michigan.org/property/tahquamenon-falls-state-park">Tahquamenon Falls State Park</a>, <a href="https://www.visitdrummondisland.com/">Drummond Island</a>, <a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/seney/">Seney National Wildlife Refuge</a>, <a href="https://www.michigan.org/property/grand-sable-banks-and-dunes">Grand Sable Banks & Dunes</a>, </i><span style="text-align: left;">climbing to the top of</span><i style="text-align: left;"> <a href="https://www.crisppointlighthouse.org/">Crisp Point Lighthouse</a> </i><span style="text-align: left;">and admiring the </span><a href="https://www.mackinacbridge.org/" style="text-align: left;"><i>Mackinac Bridge</i></a> -<span style="text-align: left;"> among other things. </span><span style="text-align: left;">And, of course, stops at </span><a href="https://www.tahquamenonfallsbrewery.com/" style="text-align: left;"><i>Tahquamenon Falls Brewery</i></a><span style="text-align: left;"> & </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Lake-Superior-Brewing-Company-72923808780/" style="text-align: left;"><i>Lake Superior Brewing Company</i></a> for my personal browsing pleasure.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Funny story, as we climbed atop the Grand Sable Dunes over looking Grand Sable Lake, three women approached us as they were backpacking along the <a href="https://northcountrytrail.org/the-trail/michigan/"><i>North Country Trail</i></a>. We were gawking at the surrounding landscape, but thought we overheard them mention Ohio on their way to us. Once there, we exchanged friendly pleasantries and asked where they were from. <i>"We're from Akron, Ohio,</i>" they shared as we delightedly relayed we, too, were from the Buckeye State and that I had worked in Akron for several years. Too funny, the bigger the world seems, the smaller it gets.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">A whirlwind vacation it was, not to mention exhausting having visited </span><span style="text-align: left;">four of the five Great Lakes over a week and a half.</span><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once we returned, we had the doctor's appointment the next day. Both of us were excited with L maybe a bit more nervous than I as we were entering a phase neither one of us were familiar with. Within minutes after answering some basic questions and completing some paperwork, this image was brought to our attention:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixyDyEMtK7PyiTlkuS0QS8QbxkRKACPaPU7QdoYTgqslfLPrDw4OHSNHYVNio8G2Vd_tT-gD_TkUAL-K-q1IF_VMfOkMPC-zMVfdvQYyzecoWvf5AyO1g7CYX5qO9ocuZ6CBQA_YLm0Svv/s1440/217528387_10158075811892665_1016891393242849141_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixyDyEMtK7PyiTlkuS0QS8QbxkRKACPaPU7QdoYTgqslfLPrDw4OHSNHYVNio8G2Vd_tT-gD_TkUAL-K-q1IF_VMfOkMPC-zMVfdvQYyzecoWvf5AyO1g7CYX5qO9ocuZ6CBQA_YLm0Svv/w400-h300/217528387_10158075811892665_1016891393242849141_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Despite wearing a mask, I couldn't close my mouth as I starred in awe. This tiny thing was about 63 days old and working on an arrival date slated for February as we watched it squirm. We don't know the sex at this point, but we have been tossing around various fun combinations of male & female names. This was a neat little respite before returning to the real world.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My first day back to work was that Saturday, two days later. A slow day it was, but I did help a female patron figure out how to print screenshots of text messages she gathered from her significant other's phone to prove to him she had caught him cheating. How many screenshots you ask? She spent just short of $10.00 on printing, at $0.10 per page. Yup, just a standard day in public library land.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Though, from this point on, <i>our</i> forthcoming year will not be so standard. Rather it will most likely be unconventional, unorthodox, atypical, strange and peculiar...so...yeah...basically, a standard at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CRAIGnBLAZER17/"><i>The Fermented Firefly</i></a>...</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><u><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdU1vhLK9HM&list=RDTdU1vhLK9HM&start_radio=1&t=162s">Grace VanderWaal - Light The Sky</a></u></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Stars, they got nothing on us</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I don't think you understand</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Let's go out and do something we'd never do</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause I feel like I can do anything when</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>My head is spinning and my feet off the ground</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And I can't stop dancing like no one's around</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And yeah, I think we were born to shine</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause the stars are dull when they're compared to you and I</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And if people don't like it, then they can close their eyes</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause we're not the same and we don't have to try</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause we're brighter than fireflies</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>We're gonna light the sky</i></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ooooh oh oh</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ooooh oh oh oh</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ooooh oh oh</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ooooh oh oh oh</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Light the sky</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You and me, we stand out of the crowd</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause we aren't afraid to let our light out</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So trust in me and just have no doubt</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause we will be tearing through the clouds</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause my head is spinning and my feet off the ground</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And I can't stop dancing like no one's around</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And yeah, I think we were born to shine</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause the stars are dull when they're compared to you and I</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And if people don't like it, then they can close their eyes</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause we're not the same and we don't have to try</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause we're brighter than fireflies</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>We're gonna light the sky</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ooh woah oh</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ooh woah oh oh</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ooh woah oh</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ooh woah oh oh</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Light the sky</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You and me</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Me and you</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>We will shine through</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You and me-e-e and you</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>We will shine</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause my head is spinning and my feet off the ground</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And I can't stop dancing like no one's around</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And yeah, I think we were born to shine</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause the stars are dull when they're compared to you and I</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And if people don't like it, then they can close their eyes</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause we're not the same and we don't have to try</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>'Cause we're brighter than fireflies</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>We're gonna light the sky</i></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ooh woah oh</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ooh woah oh oh</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ooh woah oh</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ooh woah oh oh</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Light the sky</i></div><div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgTpT1o0xVbD5hKiBwWVRQyGBYZb4RcH3vW-ePJfAyv0PlIGhmDZPPPjorGPasTS5MNMVlG1j92FiDINMgTTfGPXxLvdarQYG08MXo29z-8ZWSe-NzkGPW7AZEUWKtNFP9cUFhG-7bkhw/s960/212910957_10158057449617665_5835569685363315945_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAgTpT1o0xVbD5hKiBwWVRQyGBYZb4RcH3vW-ePJfAyv0PlIGhmDZPPPjorGPasTS5MNMVlG1j92FiDINMgTTfGPXxLvdarQYG08MXo29z-8ZWSe-NzkGPW7AZEUWKtNFP9cUFhG-7bkhw/s320/212910957_10158057449617665_5835569685363315945_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Bass fishing</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNPWwCcEm1SqgHj-uXPrNBdUPxNPmHF3SmYTxbXY7Ppx5e4maWSQKbCxi7SAraSIM-2g-YCUuTSDkgdMMuOuzOUkO9GkOqq7pTTXta0L6BX0ne5r6Hztq6-fKSKdxYu0j9igQSwD6IC7Fw/s960/213562969_10158057449467665_2402770044536397451_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNPWwCcEm1SqgHj-uXPrNBdUPxNPmHF3SmYTxbXY7Ppx5e4maWSQKbCxi7SAraSIM-2g-YCUuTSDkgdMMuOuzOUkO9GkOqq7pTTXta0L6BX0ne5r6Hztq6-fKSKdxYu0j9igQSwD6IC7Fw/s320/213562969_10158057449467665_2402770044536397451_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">A 5k race win</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNsncCVPLPfEgDY9zMbGjImcDQ1ulMOpeEJgshnbeuqb-bqBBS5FtYwMBI-QFfh_L7Rt532nF2Ye2t5WBqhAkZvnuXq6MxRj_ml2f1ce76WVK3DI3w_CbvHZvqv5VHPWIbPe7Fso-L95S8/s960/214418818_10158057449837665_3135318144420692678_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNsncCVPLPfEgDY9zMbGjImcDQ1ulMOpeEJgshnbeuqb-bqBBS5FtYwMBI-QFfh_L7Rt532nF2Ye2t5WBqhAkZvnuXq6MxRj_ml2f1ce76WVK3DI3w_CbvHZvqv5VHPWIbPe7Fso-L95S8/s320/214418818_10158057449837665_3135318144420692678_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Open fire, cast iron chicken & biscuit stew</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh41LoMsKN0o4rOK9UuIEwWsoCf8xmHWko3pPF83OKqWlNgD_1tuqCQIj-nOuJii-4VFlUnkE8Qe9pty0ooi0qWKLiE50fvOWckYcpJryFHzTtq5R7zlppiZEkwXcuTooYc11MLxbq4hJOc/s960/214677059_10158057449907665_634255204210325245_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh41LoMsKN0o4rOK9UuIEwWsoCf8xmHWko3pPF83OKqWlNgD_1tuqCQIj-nOuJii-4VFlUnkE8Qe9pty0ooi0qWKLiE50fvOWckYcpJryFHzTtq5R7zlppiZEkwXcuTooYc11MLxbq4hJOc/s320/214677059_10158057449907665_634255204210325245_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Fireworks from a barge <br />on Lake Erie<br /><br /><br /></span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKmtxtUu5UCiJMuIfpG0lk72jfDelMOhdYDN7hGf9B5FW-WifCEwmkT4eds3L3EpORK5dEQ4d5bHYYxpDqtRT9v8LDUD0Uo0cBbL3b6gjTqOZK9Dq8AVE9PfE7psA_Nt1PnjvulgNcaZCY/s960/211145234_10158064864997665_6023940033074369985_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKmtxtUu5UCiJMuIfpG0lk72jfDelMOhdYDN7hGf9B5FW-WifCEwmkT4eds3L3EpORK5dEQ4d5bHYYxpDqtRT9v8LDUD0Uo0cBbL3b6gjTqOZK9Dq8AVE9PfE7psA_Nt1PnjvulgNcaZCY/s320/211145234_10158064864997665_6023940033074369985_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>The Mackinac Bridge</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAj1Cm3SjglNZwLB7jNmlYoNqktIuT6ZmE9-Dkk-ZrI6pfSEZOqVQkfVtXfIg95dzwlyWUOrXmTThbGqtRJKcuKrerX95actXdGiLcUrw9e3ueZ-sm0LHt_Bf1XeXl7s8VSBDL3vg1bYMy/s960/211811729_10158066660802665_2881719520939858779_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAj1Cm3SjglNZwLB7jNmlYoNqktIuT6ZmE9-Dkk-ZrI6pfSEZOqVQkfVtXfIg95dzwlyWUOrXmTThbGqtRJKcuKrerX95actXdGiLcUrw9e3ueZ-sm0LHt_Bf1XeXl7s8VSBDL3vg1bYMy/s320/211811729_10158066660802665_2881719520939858779_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>From atop the Crisp Point<br />Lighthouse, looking East</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYqEaL0Qkcn8zJPlT-pKiNtoRqg2q0KDJCtDzp0bs8BBQcEbk7y-S-v2qkRB7Bh5CAKs4bvGONZY7QyzX8aNzDfcnlXz65C9CAQ4zPLC-Oh5KeiwM7wT2a7164FuLK773l-_KIS2fzZ7bX/s960/212214473_10158066661507665_2428444107723036624_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYqEaL0Qkcn8zJPlT-pKiNtoRqg2q0KDJCtDzp0bs8BBQcEbk7y-S-v2qkRB7Bh5CAKs4bvGONZY7QyzX8aNzDfcnlXz65C9CAQ4zPLC-Oh5KeiwM7wT2a7164FuLK773l-_KIS2fzZ7bX/s320/212214473_10158066661507665_2428444107723036624_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Crisp Point Lighthouse, looking north</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6cG0B-fbjQ58DLGITOlpvXKv3hQcEZiVavmZKxN1RJ1Y3esip1f9i7QOhC0oc0KQAov5iFdetWR-FjesgQqInNCnEKmvcc0j3KCeLb7tr3XA4yP_rB97HUGMAu3OJks6-Zt0PFvHLtTMv/s960/213133881_10158067016737665_1529638571965968737_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6cG0B-fbjQ58DLGITOlpvXKv3hQcEZiVavmZKxN1RJ1Y3esip1f9i7QOhC0oc0KQAov5iFdetWR-FjesgQqInNCnEKmvcc0j3KCeLb7tr3XA4yP_rB97HUGMAu3OJks6-Zt0PFvHLtTMv/s320/213133881_10158067016737665_1529638571965968737_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>L's parents at Crisp Point Lighthouse</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPlcZO9CrNRy-meKCjxUhDc3C9J3ADrYwoA2Fsch5EHoRWdUyeHk_wQfopu6FIjVcw9OY4R7tI_izEkA6A_bGVhT4yjBOfw6Q7_rBD84SjbHX3DuQ2hynm8AFvKo8V8RaznBcMJhudsClS/s960/213949230_10158066659947665_2941085033917451773_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPlcZO9CrNRy-meKCjxUhDc3C9J3ADrYwoA2Fsch5EHoRWdUyeHk_wQfopu6FIjVcw9OY4R7tI_izEkA6A_bGVhT4yjBOfw6Q7_rBD84SjbHX3DuQ2hynm8AFvKo8V8RaznBcMJhudsClS/s320/213949230_10158066659947665_2941085033917451773_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Crisp Point Lighthouse</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzLXkoTjPBQz2_hnjeNhETH3p9y1sg22ufnnpL7wzxSrEsIeB3J7gKVl98iR7bZ59heqeC1gtCQG4IybrcGt4sO7Xl7cBRSDwPXHi3HBLIHq_3bstq2x83jtTI7zPmZEeJFcOHVZ5dNVG1/s960/215503642_10158066911107665_7659872885321284443_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzLXkoTjPBQz2_hnjeNhETH3p9y1sg22ufnnpL7wzxSrEsIeB3J7gKVl98iR7bZ59heqeC1gtCQG4IybrcGt4sO7Xl7cBRSDwPXHi3HBLIHq_3bstq2x83jtTI7zPmZEeJFcOHVZ5dNVG1/s320/215503642_10158066911107665_7659872885321284443_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Tahquamenon Falls</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijlLlnaXeBS44-laoSCpJJhrI_81oT0N7M-MTPyPGZlODixiNhx4erJvWTZxAXR_80J6A2rIhYuLCKExDGzSL5u_k1JVheqsZ-H1CGN5eChMh6IpgQpPvNJJ78FD_vqTiEKGZd5Cp4zbwo/s960/215641647_10158067020552665_6595264681163644522_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijlLlnaXeBS44-laoSCpJJhrI_81oT0N7M-MTPyPGZlODixiNhx4erJvWTZxAXR_80J6A2rIhYuLCKExDGzSL5u_k1JVheqsZ-H1CGN5eChMh6IpgQpPvNJJ78FD_vqTiEKGZd5Cp4zbwo/s320/215641647_10158067020552665_6595264681163644522_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>My driftwood art masterpiece</i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcvlbU8t2VZAq4M2ReRXSx5jDBCE08O47oTXtgFXy-uKudEwvENGXSYzKc7zYyK9bovAuwELS7ggA0PQ-5aNbXNE3EGysQYc_u7dL-Gb4yr3hy7DSDbKZKliPFQp9YZRr-LE-RZaxWBHr9/s960/215701003_10158067020667665_5184561771068429072_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcvlbU8t2VZAq4M2ReRXSx5jDBCE08O47oTXtgFXy-uKudEwvENGXSYzKc7zYyK9bovAuwELS7ggA0PQ-5aNbXNE3EGysQYc_u7dL-Gb4yr3hy7DSDbKZKliPFQp9YZRr-LE-RZaxWBHr9/s320/215701003_10158067020667665_5184561771068429072_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvDnlmFVz7UXZF7hyphenhyphen98jv_ShjLGo90LGuNBESG7Ia6BXbdO16iQBSAVCea1ljy17T8rVo3dGAgVfMUj6fIqku_2AyhJ3zNBMiaCXv1Vnv_MtiIvGJNviRwaaO48ru4CvpsDvO7bRfVmriJ/s960/216305882_10158067017147665_3302118641593239547_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvDnlmFVz7UXZF7hyphenhyphen98jv_ShjLGo90LGuNBESG7Ia6BXbdO16iQBSAVCea1ljy17T8rVo3dGAgVfMUj6fIqku_2AyhJ3zNBMiaCXv1Vnv_MtiIvGJNviRwaaO48ru4CvpsDvO7bRfVmriJ/s320/216305882_10158067017147665_3302118641593239547_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>L, atop Crisp Point Lighthouse</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeTRuWUsIYl_WUyxCC6WHC62pccBby-qVnfbceQjReW1_goHq4yWQ8Kk4hJM5cy8TTSksLc7W8w1Q-7kTgudSKH2-gkm2Zvie-a7XeT9WqZiKirSUFWVHjPT_mg0jV6eDGP1q2EPGWMpj/s960/216386204_10158064863262665_961876036440140506_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeTRuWUsIYl_WUyxCC6WHC62pccBby-qVnfbceQjReW1_goHq4yWQ8Kk4hJM5cy8TTSksLc7W8w1Q-7kTgudSKH2-gkm2Zvie-a7XeT9WqZiKirSUFWVHjPT_mg0jV6eDGP1q2EPGWMpj/s320/216386204_10158064863262665_961876036440140506_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Us with the bridge & Lake Huron</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5AX99F-Tmw6Bmck_T3ZFeHeSTAhvpwX-_M0aUVwhKuChU1coO9TW0Rvr7pRJBP8qMdoPgpdgosjLz5Hdtw08oi0lpcX17GBPZUeeG9s2DrGDFcuIObVQ41CIW4XzmpddURUPCcfpbL4nj/s1440/216450756_10158068802017665_1724639039146009076_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5AX99F-Tmw6Bmck_T3ZFeHeSTAhvpwX-_M0aUVwhKuChU1coO9TW0Rvr7pRJBP8qMdoPgpdgosjLz5Hdtw08oi0lpcX17GBPZUeeG9s2DrGDFcuIObVQ41CIW4XzmpddURUPCcfpbL4nj/s320/216450756_10158068802017665_1724639039146009076_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The bridge, from Mackinaw City at night</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisNETJL7AdwYzcfhIu5TP417ZVVYe7fnZr50cmbu3PUVsjJYSmEmtXtDhxaCbgLTU3e905B8rfxFi263euxpfset6f4EMZkohkqKJE27FkgnZXSZ1Vh6U3laXcPxen7oOQrSTzegASqhvg/s960/216770967_10158067016952665_5535931413333050432_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisNETJL7AdwYzcfhIu5TP417ZVVYe7fnZr50cmbu3PUVsjJYSmEmtXtDhxaCbgLTU3e905B8rfxFi263euxpfset6f4EMZkohkqKJE27FkgnZXSZ1Vh6U3laXcPxen7oOQrSTzegASqhvg/s320/216770967_10158067016952665_5535931413333050432_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>The in-laws & L</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAsUsMMBkKK5lwulxv-HqhlEivtcUa0SMkzNIuK_bXRbSuWp5XuftPtqv6hoCriz833wTGW-lhTaucsj7LVUMnWOVNo6PzCHEcCTUbFjAJx7WFZQOV7sM-xaxuE9GHscnSwlB-IOwKCz4n/s960/216771067_10158070319977665_334106221816870126_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAsUsMMBkKK5lwulxv-HqhlEivtcUa0SMkzNIuK_bXRbSuWp5XuftPtqv6hoCriz833wTGW-lhTaucsj7LVUMnWOVNo6PzCHEcCTUbFjAJx7WFZQOV7sM-xaxuE9GHscnSwlB-IOwKCz4n/s320/216771067_10158070319977665_334106221816870126_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Grand Sable Lake from the dunes</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyl_l6oV0j4ZQ8Anxd6qSbxjrr3t29QXj_0L0WGvfaxh4wTc6GcnG0PuAeZm2NdmDm_xtS-_ilqKErjOA__77jmozd4UfaaDzS67OPiqkILPZkjshP74OGnVqh-CU4ygYlCKUTE09c_JcD/s960/216779924_10158070320127665_4045010620938296671_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyl_l6oV0j4ZQ8Anxd6qSbxjrr3t29QXj_0L0WGvfaxh4wTc6GcnG0PuAeZm2NdmDm_xtS-_ilqKErjOA__77jmozd4UfaaDzS67OPiqkILPZkjshP74OGnVqh-CU4ygYlCKUTE09c_JcD/s320/216779924_10158070320127665_4045010620938296671_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hurricane Creek</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeD5bKJ8yEGnxXZ5iVcIR-o25PT_3cHC0Wj-4_eFZTDtZvtaMDZHxfHRCR5tVrZon9WPg2SDrjfe7-BfiStRYbe2Bx7p-8Nzd2m9CxqNrbLJhOhrJGuraQD8mXluPcIcSq8ryoXgVASdqg/s960/216875978_10158066661107665_7929217220876318770_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeD5bKJ8yEGnxXZ5iVcIR-o25PT_3cHC0Wj-4_eFZTDtZvtaMDZHxfHRCR5tVrZon9WPg2SDrjfe7-BfiStRYbe2Bx7p-8Nzd2m9CxqNrbLJhOhrJGuraQD8mXluPcIcSq8ryoXgVASdqg/s320/216875978_10158066661107665_7929217220876318770_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">From the lighthouse, looking west</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0pQV9_ILU53MWZqvJqwxlPlLPDjpe_Myj7yujPRs8WyftGZI343L5nadFdkWoyFVaincHXIiXBckUNY3YcS9lQwPq4iEOlh3BZHoQj8uwIKprppy7xpNhX2dm1GsYsysycYVx_GhHk4c5/s960/217349662_10158072460837665_8190342141776266877_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0pQV9_ILU53MWZqvJqwxlPlLPDjpe_Myj7yujPRs8WyftGZI343L5nadFdkWoyFVaincHXIiXBckUNY3YcS9lQwPq4iEOlh3BZHoQj8uwIKprppy7xpNhX2dm1GsYsysycYVx_GhHk4c5/s320/217349662_10158072460837665_8190342141776266877_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>From Drummond Island Campground</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_4f0nOycdC5dkEMHKEL_e4ZyjFBTBPx2mzQt8Zvwg_mLwZ0bD2RIPcQW1b9MoYajkAvytDUWT1uez4USY-oq-8YWHGYoVPHHNa7NQxIo9iAdR-o9RJLS-N_dRQ4FEdViP52Z5DrDsZfA5/s960/217444118_10158070320057665_624184790569567793_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_4f0nOycdC5dkEMHKEL_e4ZyjFBTBPx2mzQt8Zvwg_mLwZ0bD2RIPcQW1b9MoYajkAvytDUWT1uez4USY-oq-8YWHGYoVPHHNa7NQxIo9iAdR-o9RJLS-N_dRQ4FEdViP52Z5DrDsZfA5/s320/217444118_10158070320057665_624184790569567793_n.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i>L, atop the Grand Sable Dunes along <br />the <a href="https://northcountrytrail.org/the-trail/michigan/">North Country Trail</a>. <br /><br /></i></b></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6eHxblFMSSa_z04rh6p4YzRuC2KGvj32yIfUVkaoNCA3abPvuSOsyb3SCkFi3Ukw9HHjLHGC29a0ecKNe0m3Hr6maAnexorOoEm8WEz94My7TvMBEI9QuWcEVZGQdWsbUHFERtxCbgFoc/s960/217520466_10158072460702665_1454731680975808703_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6eHxblFMSSa_z04rh6p4YzRuC2KGvj32yIfUVkaoNCA3abPvuSOsyb3SCkFi3Ukw9HHjLHGC29a0ecKNe0m3Hr6maAnexorOoEm8WEz94My7TvMBEI9QuWcEVZGQdWsbUHFERtxCbgFoc/s320/217520466_10158072460702665_1454731680975808703_n.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">From Drummond Island Campground</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIifAr3n1Y6gwamdxloaXSCLt41SQLctSekN3nSvfWVsWgkH_BAle1TjeMGViHpYe0GKFH9InUOUP67t7syHIOC6lAMw05m7Ai0glrKj1hW39xqkyC1-x1ocKpKgjpZAP2_TyJ3Bdmi3zy/s1280/thumbnail_20210710_204449.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIifAr3n1Y6gwamdxloaXSCLt41SQLctSekN3nSvfWVsWgkH_BAle1TjeMGViHpYe0GKFH9InUOUP67t7syHIOC6lAMw05m7Ai0glrKj1hW39xqkyC1-x1ocKpKgjpZAP2_TyJ3Bdmi3zy/s320/thumbnail_20210710_204449.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">'twas quite tasty</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihg29fImf-BwhKn6onxwdVkDLHzIgoJjVlo6QQc20buE94FYxmFHY67J4GBRwYt6RKWuS2BxBBOjumtRFvucxpyvNuD6aQ8orcO1lPVVuUzE2zKhvh4Bk-kqrSfagzjpH7z7nzayB9HhRG/s1280/thumbnail_20210711_102000.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihg29fImf-BwhKn6onxwdVkDLHzIgoJjVlo6QQc20buE94FYxmFHY67J4GBRwYt6RKWuS2BxBBOjumtRFvucxpyvNuD6aQ8orcO1lPVVuUzE2zKhvh4Bk-kqrSfagzjpH7z7nzayB9HhRG/s320/thumbnail_20210711_102000.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Our Airbnb had the remnants of a<br /> treehouse or fort in the side yard which<br /> included a lock on one of the trees.</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFHDd_i8qR9QTdSwIC1_G5EJKMkvwsAt7_Hgr142uMUB55HQNYcSMaSfJSUVQhOD65s4ERsfAZKs1MwHKW3fSUVhmF-xjR6Fjp1vPeK37ox7WBFOLABFaTW-_LttEUmsZL7gcy12ls-yHb/s1280/thumbnail_20210712_154551.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFHDd_i8qR9QTdSwIC1_G5EJKMkvwsAt7_Hgr142uMUB55HQNYcSMaSfJSUVQhOD65s4ERsfAZKs1MwHKW3fSUVhmF-xjR6Fjp1vPeK37ox7WBFOLABFaTW-_LttEUmsZL7gcy12ls-yHb/s320/thumbnail_20210712_154551.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">A neat little place</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbzztVdB_YzuUCigQVPCiko5ja4jlEeNHOkudv1NsqE2OTXYckV-lErMgsO6T9N02x3K-jvyMUqgcabUWW0QUrJiWa-5KlsnCnxelF0QbHdajsgrp6RY3ESixeyo9Nx3XxZxwOR7tqRnYP/s1280/thumbnail_20210712_160244.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbzztVdB_YzuUCigQVPCiko5ja4jlEeNHOkudv1NsqE2OTXYckV-lErMgsO6T9N02x3K-jvyMUqgcabUWW0QUrJiWa-5KlsnCnxelF0QbHdajsgrp6RY3ESixeyo9Nx3XxZxwOR7tqRnYP/s320/thumbnail_20210712_160244.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Would be worth a return trip</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div></div>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-43152467888482705792021-04-21T17:20:00.005-04:002022-04-15T11:12:02.796-04:00The Pandemic Running Epidemic<p>We've gone through all of the colors of the COVID-19 spectrum and seem to be on a most welcomed downward swing, or upward swing, depending on how you look at it. One shot & two shot vaccines can be found everywhere and a big sigh of relief is being slowly released as we gear up for a summer like the one's we used to know - those prior to 2020.</p><p>While we eagerly await the season of sun worshipping, we are sorting through the remnants of all things weird that piled upon us the last 15 months or so. Some of those things continue to pop up now and then. For example, one Monday morning near the end of March I get a text from L at work. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXsg0t0mOVWI8Zt9DDtNLDRl_fuWU2MWOvgvLmAqqenlqcw9Ci0x-HwyYPRSJixLs9nouu_9LuH0PqgPcjRHGMnrF6J-Fkiypr_c27rEu11QbffD7NGYp552KJ-EtrFjZ0njCgtcgTG7zp/s504/Picture1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="192" data-original-width="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXsg0t0mOVWI8Zt9DDtNLDRl_fuWU2MWOvgvLmAqqenlqcw9Ci0x-HwyYPRSJixLs9nouu_9LuH0PqgPcjRHGMnrF6J-Fkiypr_c27rEu11QbffD7NGYp552KJ-EtrFjZ0njCgtcgTG7zp/s320/Picture1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>It read: <i>"Well, XXXXXX is very late...she is stuck in her closet at home." </i><div><br /></div><div>Like any curious human, I'm confused and eager for clarification. My request for details was simply, <i>"...what...?"</i></div><div><p>Apparently this coworker had a closet door close behind her while preparing to leave for work on this day. This door has a locking mechanism that is not in proper working order, so one could (and did) lock themselves inside. This coworker was able to garner assistance for her involuntary self-imprisonment, but it consisted of a locksmith, three (3) hours, a dent in the bank account and an undetermined amount of embarrassment. Later in the day, the same coworker didn't understand as to why she was given grief for leaving work on time despite arriving 180 minutes after expectation for being caught by a Venus Flytrap masquerading as a bedroom storage unit.</p><p>For me, at work one day a couple of weeks ago, our maintenance manager Scott - who arrives hours before any one else each day - sent this email to all staff, <i>"There was a walker in the parking lot this morning . No, not a zombie but someone’s walker. If anyone comes in looking for it . It is located in the first floor maintenance room." </i>You would be surprised to know how many people would have confused a walking assistance device with a human flesh-eating freak of fiction.</p><p></p><div>Yes, truth <i>is</i> stranger than fiction. If we have learned anything in the past year, this is the new normal. But if you have been lucky enough to know me at all...this....has <i>ALWAYS</i> been normal.</div><div><br /></div><div>Case in point, fixing dinner not too long ago, I pull out the<i> </i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hot_chicken"><i>Nashville Hot Chicken</i> </a>spice rub for some chicken breast for dinner. Noticing it was starting to congeal, I went to shake the container once or twice to loosen it up. Not realizing the flip-top shaker lid had not been closed <i>(the likely reason it was in the process of solidifying</i>), the initial shake saw the spice mix shoot into my face, onto the countertop, into my glass of beer, on the floor, my hair, my glasses, my clothes and the surrounding atmosphere.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV78J5m8skyZgSlWiW4ssc0b41JA1YmCxl9Qf3XyH-QRvacnj2RX2VMqG03yU9ErO0qWXQmPBAeulJthnPELWHmREXCW_HiX9lkzwHJm6RMPypXMAvpdaC_i30wE1m49bK1C6NgFQtOXDJ/s634/37616292-9113793-image-m-2_1609836347889.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="634" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV78J5m8skyZgSlWiW4ssc0b41JA1YmCxl9Qf3XyH-QRvacnj2RX2VMqG03yU9ErO0qWXQmPBAeulJthnPELWHmREXCW_HiX9lkzwHJm6RMPypXMAvpdaC_i30wE1m49bK1C6NgFQtOXDJ/w200-h151/37616292-9113793-image-m-2_1609836347889.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The wrath of the<br /> Ark of the Covenant has</span></i></b><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />nothing on Nashville Hot Chicken</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><div><i>"What the ****?!", </i>came out of my month and L - who was sitting at the table behind me doing school work - counters with, <i>"Oh...I'm sorry!", </i>as she realizes she was likely the one who didn't close the lid previously. <i>"I can help..."</i>, she begins to say before I quickly cut her off, <i>"NO...No...no, don't worry about it. I got it.", </i>as I'm agitated at the mess I created. That's when the sting of a thousand lightning bolts shoot through my right socket.</div><div><br /></div><div>The red-orange fire powder of cayenne, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dry mustard and paprika is melting my optic nerve. As L dutifully goes about her grad school work, I'm five feet away with my head firmly in the kitchen sink splashing fistfuls of water into my ocular cavity in order to douse the household napalm out of my skull. When the pain reduced from being burned alive to ice pick-to-the-face, I went to the shower to take off my shirt and wash whatever I could from my upper torso.</div><div><br /></div><div>Through the trickle of mucus from my nasal cavity and remaining tears from my scorched eyeball, I clean up the mess and finish dinner. Yup, everyday normal at our house.</div><div><br /></div><div>To keep us at an even-keel regarding the not-so-normal normal, we find that running is an excellent stress reliever and frustration killer. And for something more than running for the sake of running, we welcomed - for the 5th consecutive year - <i><a href="https://www.thebuckfifty.com/">The Buck Fifty - Southern Ohio's 150 mile, 24 hour, 10 person team relay</a>. </i>Last year's event had to be postponed till July in an effort to institute COVID-19 protocols. It was still an outstanding event (as always), but everyone missed their early spring shot of running adrenaline. And, that too, some folks were not fans of the late July heat. Adding to the clunky year it was, this was also the same exact weekend of the great<a href="https://www.msspalert.com/cybersecurity-breaches-and-attacks/ransomware/garmin-wastedlocker-outage-and-recovery-details-status-updates/"> <i>Garmin Ransomware Attack of 2020</i></a> - rendering their websites, apps and all related devices useless, not tracking or saving any run or workout of any kind. These details, for most of us, were lost forever.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivEXJJDWpxvchfVxnWQwfJylkbrDfnNbpa2XLg7NbiLXW6oJKnqoaWkxxF1yTM75YAqWxgco-Ntq3n2N8i0YhHOAeOijI55-wdfVUSz9NmlnvXjjoS_7fo4A6jSgqdl8YwXRiK1j6Z2ksJ/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="106" data-original-width="320" height="106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivEXJJDWpxvchfVxnWQwfJylkbrDfnNbpa2XLg7NbiLXW6oJKnqoaWkxxF1yTM75YAqWxgco-Ntq3n2N8i0YhHOAeOijI55-wdfVUSz9NmlnvXjjoS_7fo4A6jSgqdl8YwXRiK1j6Z2ksJ/" width="320" /></a></div></div><div>Luckily, now with full COVID protocols in place and several months to have fine tuned them, we were able to welcome spring back with another relay gauntlet. And since <i><a href="https://www.theverge.com/2020/8/4/21353842/garmin-ransomware-attack-wearables-wastedlocker-evil-corp">Garmin paid around $10 million to the hackers</a>,</i> we stat geeks were primed to salivate over splits, elevation and VO2 Max details with running friends around the world!</div></div><div><br /></div><div>As always, things change and this year's version of team <i>Traffic Panthers</i> would look a little different. Due to general life living and quirks, about half of our ten person, two driver team would consist of new faces. Sure we would miss those familiarities, but strive forward we must. To further prepare, I had my first COVID vaccine dose on Friday, March 26th. Not feeling any side effects, I put in a 10 mile training run a couple of hours later. As it worked out, COVID stab #2 would come the morning of this year's running soiree in Ross County.</div><div><br /></div><div>It's a new year, we have a new team, there's a new race start/finish line, we have some new routes, 75 total teams and the same four national & state parks surrounding our journey through Ross County's Appalachian foothills - it would be <i>The Buck Fifty, version 5.0!</i></div><div><br /><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: left; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s1600/Final+Sport.jpg" style="clear: left; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s200/Final+Sport.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><i>**We back EVERY pair with </i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><i><a href="https://shadyrays.com/pages/official-live-hard-warranty-overview" style="color: #de7008;">FREE Replacements</a> if Lost or Broken</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>**</i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: right; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s1600/DH4A7305.jpg" style="clear: right; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s200/DH4A7305.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b>**Each order also secures 11 meals </b></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b>to fight hunger through </b></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b><a href="http://fabackup.feedingamerica.org/optimized-homepage/?_ga=2.251139073.647855481.1504895789-1536808043.1504895789" style="color: #de7008;">Feeding America</a>**</b></i></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><b style="background-color: transparent;">We are an independent sunglasses company </b><span style="background-color: transparent;">for those who don't want to buy from a massive, faceless company that has been operating the same way for decades </span></b></div><div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><a href="http://shadyrays.com/" style="color: #de7008;">shadyrays.com</a></b></div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNbsHJvCu6PEDdY9xZUm6KKP-9S3bJdQYEC8SXSJwILE8DPNQUf2zMzCdAnLZtt_PwvBR0X-8P14RBq2lQzQLllhv1QwaAJGdaVNtyWmdJddo1XOL6NLwNKeG_XNS7dwCrrDZsS7vcXsf/s1600/shady+rays.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="123" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNbsHJvCu6PEDdY9xZUm6KKP-9S3bJdQYEC8SXSJwILE8DPNQUf2zMzCdAnLZtt_PwvBR0X-8P14RBq2lQzQLllhv1QwaAJGdaVNtyWmdJddo1XOL6NLwNKeG_XNS7dwCrrDZsS7vcXsf/s1600/shady+rays.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Brand new this year is where we would begin and where we would end. In previous years, <a href="https://www.ohio.edu/chillicothe"><i>Ohio University-Chillicothe</i></a> and/or the area high atop Carlisle Hill played host but this time around we would start and finish in downtown Chillicothe in front of the historic <i><a href="https://www.majesticchillicothe.net/">Majestic Theatre</a>. </i>This is a place I watched several movies as a kid & young adult. One of those most memorable was <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/E.T._the_Extra-Terrestrial">E.T. the Extra- Terrestrial</a></i> as a 7 year-old in 1982 and holding back tears when E.T. died. There was also the one summer in my early twenties when I was way to nice and dragged to a double-feature by a platonic female friend to watch<i> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steel_Magnolias">Steel Magnolias</a></i> and <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Truth_About_Cats_%26_Dogs">The Truth About Cats & Dogs</a>...(crickets)...(crickets) ...</i>so...yeah, <i>The Buck Fifty!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: right;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA-Fwn_fLaRS8fzax4ZbCD3g-ju96w_mokjOFiNrvXrRzkin_q16oVHjqfZelliJtQkkBcwGDBSbxWw1uzLsBNeOBXH7CR9LkCcHQZmzkTjpdlUVYlOiuT0OXGwb9Rsbt-VaLUMqgfi50P/s2048/20210417_134341.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="117" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA-Fwn_fLaRS8fzax4ZbCD3g-ju96w_mokjOFiNrvXrRzkin_q16oVHjqfZelliJtQkkBcwGDBSbxWw1uzLsBNeOBXH7CR9LkCcHQZmzkTjpdlUVYlOiuT0OXGwb9Rsbt-VaLUMqgfi50P/w88-h117/20210417_134341.jpg" width="88" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">COVID stab #2</span></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div>I would be tasked with position #2 this year, which would be new race territory for me but not unfamiliar. The second leg would be an adjusted route from prior years. I joined a few Buck Fifty runners in covering this leg in March. Among them was former Ross County prep track & cross country standout (and team <i>Paint Valley Prison Break</i> member) Daniel Gardner. He and I pushed the pace on that bright frigid Saturday morning. Depending on how things turnout, I was curious to know if I could top that pace on this day without DG pulling me along. And lucky enough, COVID stab #2 just hours before wasn't effecting me in any way. I waited till about five minutes before I was to start to tell teammates Mark & Stacey, both of which had looks of horror thinking I had just screwed us. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">However, I felt relatively decent. If I was worn at all, it was due to the 2 hour drive to Chillicothe shortly before I was to start. This was leg #2:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>The leg #2</b></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Distance: 7.4 miles</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div><b>Elevation Change: 316 feet</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-6HVhY-q1OobLQh9wh4jOJJzkmKmGT2ei04LZ1FXYpA2HUQ_p9AkDfgn2wzajtaLgd4HMzaPg9kdJ618sEoP8WRWxNdpZ498zHDe52i5G1NDeS2FWu5CR4W_VTkewMyPRV9oNMe07OOcf/s320/Leg+2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="272" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-6HVhY-q1OobLQh9wh4jOJJzkmKmGT2ei04LZ1FXYpA2HUQ_p9AkDfgn2wzajtaLgd4HMzaPg9kdJ618sEoP8WRWxNdpZ498zHDe52i5G1NDeS2FWu5CR4W_VTkewMyPRV9oNMe07OOcf/s0/Leg+2.jpg" /></a></div><br />0.20 mi</b> Turn down the Adena hill </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>0.65 mi</b> At the bottom of the hill go straight onto the bike path </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>1.15 mi</b> Turn right onto Yaples Orchard Dr and go up the hill</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2.51 mi </b> Turn left onto Avalon Dr.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>2.65 mi</b> Turn left onto gravel road through field</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>3.00</b> mi Turn right onto Larrick Ln</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>3.44 mi</b> Turn left onto bike path</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>3.91 mi</b> Turn right onto Clinton Rd behind the Marathon gas station, and make a quick left back onto the bike path that parallels Veterans Pkwy</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>5.50 mi</b> Go under Veterans Pkwy through tunnel and make a right to continue straight on the bike path</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>7.08 mi</b> Follow the bike path until you hit the T at Maple Grove Rd. and turn right</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>7.17 mi</b> Turn left at the intersection and stay to the left as you go up the hill at Sulphur Lick Rd, and then turn right into the checkpoint at the top of the hill.</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Traffic Panther Josh arrives at 5:17 P.M. and I take off into a wonderful down hill, followed by a monster up hill through an upscale neighborhood and onto the bike path where I'm able to settle in to some consistency. Yes, I do feel a bit more worn then typical but - again - I just drove two hours to get here. I pick off about five runners and the last mile was a bit of a struggle, but soon I make it to the checkpoint and hand-off to Mark. My watch indicates 7.30 miles covered in 48:57 (6:42 pace), about a minute faster than the practice run the previous month.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Not long after van #1 finishes our first go around and Van #2 takes over at Adena High School at dusk. We van #1 members head to Mark's house for a short rest and bacon, sausage and egg souffle. I close my eyes for a few minutes, but didn't sleep at all. We take off again at 11pm to van transition #2 at the grain mill in Kingston. It is cold, but it is bustling with vans, runners, music and smells of grilled hot dogs & coffee. Teammate Sarah from van #2 arrives to hand off to Josh which means I would be next as our vans part ways again.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At Zane Trace High School and dressed as a living laser light show, I'm bouncing around to stay warm as it is 36 degrees. Runners are coming and going, but finally Josh arrives and I'm off for my second venture at 12:56 A.M. and this is how it is described:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_NbSHxPWSEFipSy4WwVmtxUrYWHgJqPtXdY0ulL0IOGto0lz6cEdzAwko4Jg5oBACr3k3AQqYfyY-YawpYrY4Lxb8XDaDLkLXjAkb_YMtve4HVlkPUN5lJzt5mgbdJUK-KD_gk83tahL5/s489/leg+12.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="489" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_NbSHxPWSEFipSy4WwVmtxUrYWHgJqPtXdY0ulL0IOGto0lz6cEdzAwko4Jg5oBACr3k3AQqYfyY-YawpYrY4Lxb8XDaDLkLXjAkb_YMtve4HVlkPUN5lJzt5mgbdJUK-KD_gk83tahL5/s320/leg+12.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>The Buck Fifty Leg #12</i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><div><b>Leg #12 </b></div><div><b>Distance: 3.7 miles, relatively flat</b></div><div><b>1</b>. Continue south on Sulphur Spring Rd. to the first stop sign. Continue straight and the road will turn into Marietta Rd. at the first four-way stop.</div><div><b> 2.</b> Follow Marietta straight and at 3.17 miles you will go straight as this turns into Hopetown Rd. Marietta will make a left, BUT YOU NEED TO STAY STRAIGHT ONTO HOPETOWN. <br /><b>3.</b> Continue straight over the overpass and take the first right onto Chambers <br /><b>4.</b> Checkpoint is at Waste Management 675 Chamber Drive.</div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p>It is a relatively straight stretch with small undulating inclines, short and fast. Under the cover of darkness, I'm able to focus on speed since I simply can't see anything else around me. I pass nine runners along the way and in the last 200 meters the beginnings of a side stitch arise, but I fight on and hand off to Mark once again. My watch indicates 3.72 miles covered in 24:13 (6:31 pace). Hard to complain, but the last half mile or so was less than comfortable.</p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_uEDGY6LEvSEYnJuX3-T8hk-7yXSwfhJ9EUSca4F58uHOnCxEOOBky93bQx340hHzR10DNcV8Y9mR9BvSD-9z1O8YmX_QZmgcTA3AQUmn4Jq64H1By-Maw0XDz50iEq7Q3uHL9ZIQb_R/s2015/Walnut+Creek.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2015" data-original-width="1504" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji_uEDGY6LEvSEYnJuX3-T8hk-7yXSwfhJ9EUSca4F58uHOnCxEOOBky93bQx340hHzR10DNcV8Y9mR9BvSD-9z1O8YmX_QZmgcTA3AQUmn4Jq64H1By-Maw0XDz50iEq7Q3uHL9ZIQb_R/w93-h125/Walnut+Creek.jpg" width="93" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Staying warm</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table>Again, soon we would reach van transition #3 at Walnut Creek Campground where a nice blazing fire attracted runners like a bug zapper. Van #2 arrives after their very brief rest and they take over around 3:30 A.M. We then make our way back to Mark's house for a bit longer rest and additional fuel (food). There I take a welcomed hot shower and inhale the remnants of the souffle and sausage. I did actually fall asleep for about 30 minutes, but the adrenaline was flowing and was to keyed up to drift away.<p></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0EQoK7iqNXgvcYGogaCdz1wUigO6lnQrCUV9Sa-lEV04oyWj9rcCZcJT3wm99PN3XJLS9qVRIijjcYudaAVy47SKdTkmC7DkNMv-1I_H3tzFfdvQv1dsHy9AA0xY6Gv3riyPhgc3SZcTL/s1440/SE.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="90" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0EQoK7iqNXgvcYGogaCdz1wUigO6lnQrCUV9Sa-lEV04oyWj9rcCZcJT3wm99PN3XJLS9qVRIijjcYudaAVy47SKdTkmC7DkNMv-1I_H3tzFfdvQv1dsHy9AA0xY6Gv3riyPhgc3SZcTL/w120-h90/SE.jpg" width="120" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>From Southeastern H.S.</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table>At 6:00 A.M, we are back on the road for van transition #4 at Southeastern High School and the Saturday morning is arriving from behind the Southern Ohio foothills. Like clockwork, van #2 arrives and Josh is off for a third time. The next stop is at Shelly & Sands where I would meet Josh for my final run. This leg is described as:<p></p><p><span face=""Calibri","sans-serif"" style="color: #1f497d; font-size: 11pt;"><span id="ms-rterangepaste-start"></span></span></p><div><b>The leg #22<br />Distance: 6.2 miles<br />Elevation Change: 418 feet</b></div><div><b>Total Gain: 858 feet</b></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSBDiB1ZNxRYYduDLs9kBDUkiSYf7OAWOKrfSqHTQ3Kues9b9nufbielqgqR2NOXRVXCgLI77u3Rj80hFQtuKVXMkXGRRczR6ER78L06wCzOR8mY3h_z8Z857jnpvAuM1ELJ-J6Ia37VEj/s408/leg+24.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="373" data-original-width="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSBDiB1ZNxRYYduDLs9kBDUkiSYf7OAWOKrfSqHTQ3Kues9b9nufbielqgqR2NOXRVXCgLI77u3Rj80hFQtuKVXMkXGRRczR6ER78L06wCzOR8mY3h_z8Z857jnpvAuM1ELJ-J6Ia37VEj/s320/leg+24.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>The Buck Fifty Leg #22</i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><p class="MsoNormal"><b>1.</b> Turn Right out of the gravel quarry and head South on Higby Rd. Follow across the railroad tracks. Be very cautious and DO NOT take chances with a train! <br />2. After the tracks you will turn Left onto Higby Rd at the T. <br /><b>3</b>. You will quickly come to your entrance to the Buckeye Trail on the Right in about 50 yards. The trail is marked with light blue paint on the trees. Follow these all the way to large open area mentioned below at 5.5 miles into the run. <br /><b>4</b>. At approximately 2.5 miles you will cross over a gravel road and take a left onto the trail. There has been some tree harvesting there and the trail is wider, and a little mushy for then next 1/4 mile and you'll be back on single track. <br /><b>5.</b> At 5.5 miles into the run, you will come into a clearing that is an abandoned air strip. You will run along the right edge of the tree line working your way to a wooden bridge to cross over a small creek and over Airport Rd into the trail system. Stay right and follow the white paint marks on the trees. <br /><b>6.</b> When you exit, you will be directly across from checkpoint #22 on Stoney Creek Rd so please use caution crossing this road.</p><p class="MsoNormal">At 8:08 A.M., Josh arrives and I take off feeling ready to tackle some hills. Trudging up the initial massive incline of this portion of the <a href="https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/go-and-do/outdoor/buckeye-trail"><i>Buckeye Trail (Ohio's 1,400 mile hiking trail, circling the entire state)</i></a> I pass two runners and as I reach the crest and turn right on the the now widened path I hear, <i>"passing on your right!"</i></p><p class="MsoNormal">Blowing by me is a kid wearing Shawnee State gear and within a minute, he has disappeared. Sticking to my guns, I keep my pace along the rugged terrain - going as fast as I can, while trying to stay upright. Along the way I pass several more runners and at about halfway through I come about one of them leisurely laying across the path scrolling on this phone. As I hurdle him I ask, <i>"Dude, you okay?"</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWd5FDKvwIoI-zXpo4kjkGkLsatVGTd5UQdKv3QJNe4KhEwiTjadbETLaBaIHurNCSEB1DgShwgOe_g7wzRUwnI0BuThSC3by8gPBSvNxO5X2iBsNHuBZKmt0ItTU528B36efL2JKLQjd/s2048/20210417_134001.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtWd5FDKvwIoI-zXpo4kjkGkLsatVGTd5UQdKv3QJNe4KhEwiTjadbETLaBaIHurNCSEB1DgShwgOe_g7wzRUwnI0BuThSC3by8gPBSvNxO5X2iBsNHuBZKmt0ItTU528B36efL2JKLQjd/w150-h200/20210417_134001.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><span style="font-size: x-small;">The clean version of<br />my knee.</span></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i>"Yeah, I'm alright", </i>he says. He must have been hurt, but not in serious pain, so I continue on <i>(we would find out later that he had fractured his right lateral malleolus, the outside ankle bone, and would spend some time up on the mountain before help could reach him). </i>Probably three minutes later, and in a nice groove, my left foot catches a rock and I'm tossed face forward. My left knee bludgeons the rocky trail and my right hand keeps my face from doing the same. It hurt, it hurt bad. Though, I bounce right back up in one motion and continue on.<p></p><p class="MsoNormal">With my knee throbbing and my hand in similar shape, I pass two folks coming the opposite direction in the span of about a mile. They were on their way to reach the kid with the broken ankle, though they could have mistaken me for the injured on as I could feel the blood was rolling down by leg. Coming out of the hill and towards airport road, I reach an SUV with a few folks nearby. <i>"Do you know if they've reached the injured runner?,"</i> I'm asked as I fly by. Unfortunately, I had to relay that the dude was pretty far back and the rescuers had some time before they would reach him.</p><p class="MsoNormal">I cross Airport Road and up into another steep trail incline on the other side, I'm moving, though its like I'm stuck in molasses. Soon, I stop seeing signs depicting <i>The Buck Fifty </i>logo and come to a trail crossing in front me. I'm not sure which direction I need to go. I ran this route about a year ago, but don't remember which way I took. I yell out to see if anyone was within earshot, <i>"Which way do I need to go?!,"</i> and of course there is no one but me.</p><p class="MsoNormal">I take a stab at it and go left. Alas, before long it became obvious I had selected the <i>wrong</i> direction. After a mile or so of inclines & declines, I sucked up my exhausted pride and reversed course. Now tired and frustrated, I make my way back and had to walk up one incline because my legs were simply dead. I get back to where my demise began <i>(now realizing the Buck Fifty logo signs had evolved into white blazes)</i> and make my way down finally reaching the checkpoint. I'm handed a bottle of water and I tossed it aside in disgust. Then promptly retrieve it because I needed it.</p><p class="MsoNormal">My teammates tell me they thought I had been the injured runner, but everyone coming in had indicated I had passed them. It was then obvious I had taken a wrong turn. My watch says I traveled 8.66 miles in 1:30:16, climbing about 1,500 feet. In all, the wrong turn and my ensuing stupidity added about 30 minutes to our time. I spend the next couple of stops attempting to catch my breathe and sopping up the dried blood caked to my knee.</p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI493h3WmldJ_0AK83SwmKkKU60Bmz9ZDOvAemT5kRdlUSsILNqjSRpDEck_82sw3a8QuSMS8sTWULyt698Hs4UH-jglPSmFJ1le291qImcYXXca3uYivuGQHZLBRt7mwMMCODaXnjw2pY/s500/All+of+us+FINISH.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="500" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI493h3WmldJ_0AK83SwmKkKU60Bmz9ZDOvAemT5kRdlUSsILNqjSRpDEck_82sw3a8QuSMS8sTWULyt698Hs4UH-jglPSmFJ1le291qImcYXXca3uYivuGQHZLBRt7mwMMCODaXnjw2pY/w200-h188/All+of+us+FINISH.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>The 2021 Traffic Panthers<br />at the finish</b></i></span></td></tr></tbody></table>Soon we reach the last van transition and van #2 is off for the remaining five legs. I get back to my car and head over to <i><a href="https://www.oldcapitolbrewing.com/">Old Capitol Brewing</a></i> to relax and drown my frustration in a nice stout. Before long, the occupants of both vans are at the finish line as Sarah arrives to end our journey. And in the annual Buck Fifty traditional we are announced and cross in front of the grandstand together, as a team.<p></p><p class="MsoNormal">We finish right at 23 hours and 37th out of 72 teams, though if you erase the 30 minutes I mistakenly added on we should have finish six to seven places higher - but it is what it is. To help with drive home, L had ridden down earlier to do some hiking with her mom & brother and met up with me at the finish line. She drove us home because in my zombie-like state, I don't know if I could have made it by myself.</p><p class="MsoNormal">The Traffic Panthers nearly immediately began making plans for year #6 and will be ready in April 2022 to battle Ross County, yet again. A big THANK YOU to the 2021 Traffic Panthers...</p><div><i><b>Van #1</b>: Josh Tyler, <u>yours truly</u>, Mark Cenci, Eric Derringer, Dave Brown- <b>Driver</b>- Stacey Tyler. </i></div><div><i><b>Van #2</b>- Kaleigh Gillum, Eli Fox, Dustin Weaver, Lisa Spradlin, Sarah Bost- <b>Driver</b>- Zane Taylor </i><br /><br />We bid you adieu for another 12 months while going about our daily lives. Though, pay close attention because the <i>Traffic Panthers </i>running team likes to prowl and if provoked....you'll hear trouble comin'...</div><div><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uURsMKMloM8">Royal Blood - Trouble's Coming </a><br /><br />I gave my knuckles a run for their money, spider web <br />Cracks on the mirror, I see someone but not somebody <br />If I could then I would <br />If I could then I would <br />If I could <br /><br />I let my demons take hold and CHOKE ON ME <br />Can’t FILL these holes that I’m digging <br />Can’t STOP my heart when it’s sinking <br />BUT If I could then I would <br />If I could then I would <br />If I could <br /><br />IF I COULD YOU don’t think I would pretend <br />Troubles coming but I still don’t know when <br />That’s the voice that I can hear in my head <br />I hear it over and over again <br /><br />I hear trouble coming, over and over again <br /><br />In my reflection I see signs of psychosis <br />I try to pay them no attention can’t keep them under the surface <br />If I could then I would <br />If I could then I would <br />If I could <br /><br />IF I COULD you don’t think I would pretend <br />Troubles coming but I still don’t know when <br />That’s the voice that I can hear in my head <br />I hear it over and over again <br /><br />I hear trouble coming, over and over again <br /><br />I can’t wait forever <br />Cause I don’t have the time left to spend <br />Wishing I was someone better <br />Wishing I could start all over again <br /><br />I hear trouble coming, I hear trouble coming <br />Over and over again <br /><br />IF I COULD you don’t think I would pretend <br />Troubles coming but I still don’t know when <br />That’s the voice that I can hear in my head <br />I hear it over and over again <br /><br />I hear trouble coming, I hear trouble coming <br />Over and over again</span></i></div></div><div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><i><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4HL4QWdgZ-SR8rqCdO51uL_xiQTIEkusF9BYLqUOj5h_XPiG6ScZuutmgwiGSfdLDU92ujm3RJIiE8gvWpjxXzrweFgYn7RA4g80Ujxx6DJabe-NyrLGTw0C1qZm3HnJ13xCGbEx8nbE/s2048/20210416_135856.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4HL4QWdgZ-SR8rqCdO51uL_xiQTIEkusF9BYLqUOj5h_XPiG6ScZuutmgwiGSfdLDU92ujm3RJIiE8gvWpjxXzrweFgYn7RA4g80Ujxx6DJabe-NyrLGTw0C1qZm3HnJ13xCGbEx8nbE/s320/20210416_135856.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where the weekend began for all 70 or so teams</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-s3wS1EWj5BRgrsjzwVobQW_HoBZFQbGgWY-0EjtaWgfAJ4qs9KkmYtrIA8euAV-oZBVDM6yC7vXFggayi9VcRLg5_wsjWN68BUmx5Hx1ssN7putnHUhbhmeiWaxZZdMVOkL1owXcaWiI/s2048/20210416_181246.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-s3wS1EWj5BRgrsjzwVobQW_HoBZFQbGgWY-0EjtaWgfAJ4qs9KkmYtrIA8euAV-oZBVDM6yC7vXFggayi9VcRLg5_wsjWN68BUmx5Hx1ssN7putnHUhbhmeiWaxZZdMVOkL1owXcaWiI/s320/20210416_181246.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leg #1 completion beer.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAt8WEFBqILVsj-Uf1pzJOxcVugsBMqhyWDCOaO1XkST8pKKuRVlsaNbZFg5HwuZFBQarzhyphenhyphenWwV0OBsOk8cGkT49Dc6kMR4JzOYDwMuhr431fhhe23EsDOIFNjz_uuiwB-hATjbj8mB9PW/s2048/20210417_014616.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAt8WEFBqILVsj-Uf1pzJOxcVugsBMqhyWDCOaO1XkST8pKKuRVlsaNbZFg5HwuZFBQarzhyphenhyphenWwV0OBsOk8cGkT49Dc6kMR4JzOYDwMuhr431fhhe23EsDOIFNjz_uuiwB-hATjbj8mB9PW/s320/20210417_014616.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leg #2 completion beer</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjre_coRP_zyipiVjR35iofU7NHd_L5g2HIwjZ6M4ygYE-r114gGJ_5PrIw4RzGW_NI7VcfqKkdDHuq-q80AfowmWYnMFkWkzHHz4XiALUu6-tVods9_S3kg7YHgC4NQotFPydp7ZkyCdKR/s2048/20210417_111030.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjre_coRP_zyipiVjR35iofU7NHd_L5g2HIwjZ6M4ygYE-r114gGJ_5PrIw4RzGW_NI7VcfqKkdDHuq-q80AfowmWYnMFkWkzHHz4XiALUu6-tVods9_S3kg7YHgC4NQotFPydp7ZkyCdKR/s320/20210417_111030.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leg #3 completion beer</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmO0H2hQ2FzlpKcXGHC4_6JWlfJqIJfjXkB8Ba5lpNjFppsUclsfArJeAQQBvYewuEO9JtNst9t0Te-CABcVnqo7-zicB1ak58o4gYQ2EKISDk712CdJhOO7xxanLc5wN64YiTWrys9Dq_/s2048/20210417_121230.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmO0H2hQ2FzlpKcXGHC4_6JWlfJqIJfjXkB8Ba5lpNjFppsUclsfArJeAQQBvYewuEO9JtNst9t0Te-CABcVnqo7-zicB1ak58o4gYQ2EKISDk712CdJhOO7xxanLc5wN64YiTWrys9Dq_/s320/20210417_121230.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Van stats - Traffic Panthers are stupid sometimes</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflvjkFWUvMkcBqLOF66P00FAypFXmglluFckr-vYTIndVpp-ThAm1MBooZEkkhD5DzipPwHCFQRMSttnbcnAmxgjdEVfsN80tlL-M_Z2F1xEkDqAFk0FE12aoBfUXbdqqY7n1cYIqjpSa/s2048/20210417_140041.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiflvjkFWUvMkcBqLOF66P00FAypFXmglluFckr-vYTIndVpp-ThAm1MBooZEkkhD5DzipPwHCFQRMSttnbcnAmxgjdEVfsN80tlL-M_Z2F1xEkDqAFk0FE12aoBfUXbdqqY7n1cYIqjpSa/s320/20210417_140041.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Old Capitol Brewing</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNsvL9hJV2Btthce8XMUu2Tty0EIdp_K0qHPpqjXS2OyN4CYGTd8Pi_GKznCyVGDUMmzaXV-JyG8ArJyQr2LQFJSg76z2H2jXDOPveNUMYTaOQmIK6V-bE_ARekPgVZjO_dEF1NiiyPWCn/s720/Adena+High+School.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNsvL9hJV2Btthce8XMUu2Tty0EIdp_K0qHPpqjXS2OyN4CYGTd8Pi_GKznCyVGDUMmzaXV-JyG8ArJyQr2LQFJSg76z2H2jXDOPveNUMYTaOQmIK6V-bE_ARekPgVZjO_dEF1NiiyPWCn/s320/Adena+High+School.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the Adena High School checkpoint</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24tl5sPrqi_U0FPocDZWZaB9PRDY6zUQdeA61gdeFIk0U_J2kBoWkeJav4wR21k35CX_R4C5aHT3yleujTl_WmGFvze8XlK27lnlXqi_xtUlOhnmFeXpcd45TKJ-trX2pn4rbSDQKLCjK/s960/exhausted.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24tl5sPrqi_U0FPocDZWZaB9PRDY6zUQdeA61gdeFIk0U_J2kBoWkeJav4wR21k35CX_R4C5aHT3yleujTl_WmGFvze8XlK27lnlXqi_xtUlOhnmFeXpcd45TKJ-trX2pn4rbSDQKLCjK/s320/exhausted.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's me, leg #1 is finished</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivX5aRFVUQsKXKhiUeAUPLG0Exf57sOTqtvp5D252q3FcfTcLebrVvuNxSdT1xUe4oVAxwHOup5dLSau6-zR4nxNer1bdY5ovlAgk3MvKqtpzX7zIuNgpKrS8gBdH0eMl5Bwx3aoy3jn_y/s500/grain+mill.png" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivX5aRFVUQsKXKhiUeAUPLG0Exf57sOTqtvp5D252q3FcfTcLebrVvuNxSdT1xUe4oVAxwHOup5dLSau6-zR4nxNer1bdY5ovlAgk3MvKqtpzX7zIuNgpKrS8gBdH0eMl5Bwx3aoy3jn_y/s320/grain+mill.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Kingston grain mill checkpoint</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDuBZZKXmHn1Rp1LPW-7y2lksQ_J8JuFQTVxp5P2P5nj9jOcZMOz_dxezU0yVOivtYNxs6LOlmSmNE21adUR8sLmWZ3Afsl_CClf3Y3zgKKwKF2QvsT6Ag020Zt_AWsHQRNwdUxqkn93Hj/s1600/IMG_0222.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDuBZZKXmHn1Rp1LPW-7y2lksQ_J8JuFQTVxp5P2P5nj9jOcZMOz_dxezU0yVOivtYNxs6LOlmSmNE21adUR8sLmWZ3Afsl_CClf3Y3zgKKwKF2QvsT6Ag020Zt_AWsHQRNwdUxqkn93Hj/s320/IMG_0222.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traffic Panthers Van #1</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYjgetpOgLypLrvYf1e167cgtInq9Zkxqhdkeri9otK8fv2tQ0edFT2cVMhy9vuhWaqPIH1PDWZsPH-GTcoBOtCRpp7_JihIAoDnyQBxLpUJ7svdN4w0Z6V_yZa-LZBNX2cB8TuknqwNhf/s960/the+start.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYjgetpOgLypLrvYf1e167cgtInq9Zkxqhdkeri9otK8fv2tQ0edFT2cVMhy9vuhWaqPIH1PDWZsPH-GTcoBOtCRpp7_JihIAoDnyQBxLpUJ7svdN4w0Z6V_yZa-LZBNX2cB8TuknqwNhf/s320/the+start.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Josh preparing to start us off</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPoS-bAi0fssTCOCqv7GKVgsF8r53KTdYRRKgHHcFBsN6oY37EFL9kt5fcRXC8vUSIR8uGs7WoO0mqKH3QJIpzipYrBVqcKL5sAig7p2wy05PRGhxzkV5M40_8JscjCsCcWb1o2lLEw6qe/s720/Van+%25232.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPoS-bAi0fssTCOCqv7GKVgsF8r53KTdYRRKgHHcFBsN6oY37EFL9kt5fcRXC8vUSIR8uGs7WoO0mqKH3QJIpzipYrBVqcKL5sAig7p2wy05PRGhxzkV5M40_8JscjCsCcWb1o2lLEw6qe/s320/Van+%25232.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Traffic Panthers Van #2</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></div>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-43822211585303668652020-12-29T15:47:00.008-05:002021-01-05T12:00:49.671-05:00Flattening the Curve for 1,500 MilesQuarantines, closings, postponements, deferments, cancellations, rescheduling, delays, upside down holidays, no gatherings, shelter-in-place, wear a mask, sanitize your hands, social distance yourself...but keep your head up and virtually smile 2020! <div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7D2zP7pLHG42e0OVLD9cvEEpVsFoYKnUtiVhUJsF8gf54n4alftBnyR_mAoiKMmxoxYzrFDiMkfT8BxbhpDC1nuOSBgKcMe2IXwpT3Qwz_TbijOYjdCQ3oHt1XKq8HVzyvq1Ge8plX_dU/s1000/99999.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7D2zP7pLHG42e0OVLD9cvEEpVsFoYKnUtiVhUJsF8gf54n4alftBnyR_mAoiKMmxoxYzrFDiMkfT8BxbhpDC1nuOSBgKcMe2IXwpT3Qwz_TbijOYjdCQ3oHt1XKq8HVzyvq1Ge8plX_dU/w200-h200/99999.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>What a load of crap this running year turned out to be. We did get to squeeze in a handful of races, but if there was ever a time when one needed to dig deep and find some personal motivation to keep putting in the miles - this was the biggest test ever. Area running organizations held challenges to assist in keeping us moving and entertained (which were a big help), but it was ultimately up to you to keep moving. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8sCJMjuEkpw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><i>Remember the Seinfeld episode where George was hired and given the Penske file, of which he had no clue what he was supposed to do with it</i></a>...yeah, it was a lot like that. Unless you put in the effort to try and make sense out of it, you were George....a short, fat, bald man, with no money and no job who lives with his parents. </div><div><br /></div><div>Luckily, L and I were able to keep each other motivated enough to keep the legs moving (and unlike many unfortunate folks, employed). Finding a variety of area parks and trails for some new scenery became a fun, near weekly, thing. Being a stats geek, Strava & Garmin Connect keep me personally entertained and chasing numerous running friends from near & far.</div><div><br /></div><div>Before 2020 vomited on itself, we did get to run the <a href="https://the5thline5k.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><i>5th Line 5k in Columbus</i></a>, February's <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/SouthHaven/BreaktheIce5KandFrostyDash" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><i> Break the Ice 5k</i></a> in South Haven, Michigan and<i> </i><i><a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Columbus/Arnold5K" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the Arnold Classic 5k</a> </i>in March. From then on things simply got weird. I did, though, get the chance to take part in <a href="https://www.thebuckfifty.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><i>The Buck Fifty 150 Mile Team Relay</i></a> with team Traffic Panthers for a fourth straight year, though it did get postponed from April to late July. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEismpdjB_hT-bQlmCMYfD2sGCaqO6d2J0eIRwKea3R0SDAVrE-nvcYWyXBbIaA6DItWcuzrUwl0ORymkmh-b6WfhUt0kCG4i5Soa47EISVYznT_Vfe-TJxO5nwsIAqY1qvAvr9WdZ_L5fGR/s960/119333122_10157415955232665_1248529660921360512_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEismpdjB_hT-bQlmCMYfD2sGCaqO6d2J0eIRwKea3R0SDAVrE-nvcYWyXBbIaA6DItWcuzrUwl0ORymkmh-b6WfhUt0kCG4i5Soa47EISVYznT_Vfe-TJxO5nwsIAqY1qvAvr9WdZ_L5fGR/w200-h150/119333122_10157415955232665_1248529660921360512_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>We even took part in the socially distanced <a href="https://www.hollandhavenmarathon.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><i>Holland Haven Half Marathon</i></a> in Holland, Michigan in September where L ran her first half ever (which also required us to bike 18 miles back to the start area to retrieve the car following the 13.1 mile run). Not to mention the socially distanced <a href="http://delawareturkeytrot.com/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><i>Delaware Turkey Trot 5k</i></a> in our own town on Thanksgiving Day. It was nice to run a relatively real race...but we are eager to get back to normal.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our <a href="https://www.columbusrunning.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><i>Columbus Running Company</i></a> Tuesday Night Track group began, as always, in April - though we only met once before COVID forced us to do the speed workouts on our own time. It was weird not to see those familiar faces on a weekly basis, but we kept tabs on one another utilizing this thing called the "internet"... maybe you have heard of it? 😁</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK1EwqDyBeE3L-gVmZQMeq77xpQB5kwxvbDYkQ_jOVRT4GBbyrsULGh1a5JFDpWLyNfMNvZmUuYEDS9tbwE9ByRbqQNrJrmzJ6p__0r5dGiYcgiXIi6wbDWXrechfoIuxIf5kTk_MgrFlx/s1440/127866395_10157579947087665_1378465108036538433_o.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK1EwqDyBeE3L-gVmZQMeq77xpQB5kwxvbDYkQ_jOVRT4GBbyrsULGh1a5JFDpWLyNfMNvZmUuYEDS9tbwE9ByRbqQNrJrmzJ6p__0r5dGiYcgiXIi6wbDWXrechfoIuxIf5kTk_MgrFlx/w200-h200/127866395_10157579947087665_1378465108036538433_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>I have continued doing a track work out each Tuesday on my own, it helps to break up the monotony of putting in general miles. Sooner or later, I'm hoping I can put that work into a competitive race with real people...<i>.wow,</i> <i>can you imagine?! </i>Working on outrunning people instead of segments is much more my cup of tea, unless you are one of those clowns who collect crowns because you have no other real purpose in life - then have at it.<br /><br /></div><div>Despite all of this ridiculousness I topped 1,500 (1,510) miles in my 45th year of existence - by far the most I can ever remember putting in (college was a long time ago and I don't recollect the mileage covered, the mid '90's were a blast) and about 150 more than 2019. </div><div><br /></div><div>So the decade began as a giant disappointment for us in most areas, but I'm sure this only means bigger and better things ahead. Try to relax, wear your mask, wash your hands, be kind, <i>relax</i> and patiently await the COVID-free world we are all looking forward to...whether it be in 2021 or soon thereafter...it will all be good....</div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;"><b> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zhs0JD6XJyQ" rel="nofollow" style="text-decoration-line: underline;" target="_blank">Better Than Ezra - Good</a></b></span></i></p></div></blockquote></blockquote></blockquote></blockquote></blockquote></blockquote><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Looking around the house</i></div><span lang="en-US"><i><div style="text-align: center;">Hidden behind the window and the door</div><div style="text-align: center;">Searching for signs of life but there's nobody home</div><div style="text-align: center;">Well, maybe I'm just too sure</div><div style="text-align: center;">Or maybe I'm just too frightened by the sound of it</div><div style="text-align: center;">Pieces of note fall down, but the letter said 'aha'</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It was good, living with you, aha</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was good, ah-wa-aha</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was good, living with you, aha</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was good, aw, good good good good good good</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sitting around the house</div><div style="text-align: center;">Watching the sun trace shadows on the floor</div><div style="text-align: center;">Searching for signs of life, but there's nobody home</div><div style="text-align: center;">Now maybe I'll call, or write you a letter</div><div style="text-align: center;">Now maybe we'll see on the Fourth of July</div><div style="text-align: center;">But I'm not too sure, and I'm not too proud</div><div style="text-align: center;">Well I'm not too sure, and I'm not too proud to say 'aha'</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It was good, living with you, aha</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was good, ah-wa-aha</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was good, living with you, aha</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was good, aw</div><div style="text-align: center;">So good</div><div style="text-align: center;">A-aha</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was good, living with you, aha</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was good, ah-wa-aha</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was good, living with you, aha</div><div style="text-align: center;">It was good, ah-ah-ah-ah-wa</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yeah, you were so good.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yeah, you were so good</div></i></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtUwBeIR6MrdhQcQmhiRGpeH2zKD2Uc2F1p3wwexP_aDV9M8wvhBCFnxp4mXKk2WnQJeL54kcH6rrj1lbMzUn50kMcf2doLZgweNkgvxu0QXXHqRpqoWml1R_wxUiLtwW_1uisxSvScV55/s1440/84823759_10156797103337665_6168091349414313984_o.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtUwBeIR6MrdhQcQmhiRGpeH2zKD2Uc2F1p3wwexP_aDV9M8wvhBCFnxp4mXKk2WnQJeL54kcH6rrj1lbMzUn50kMcf2doLZgweNkgvxu0QXXHqRpqoWml1R_wxUiLtwW_1uisxSvScV55/w320-h320/84823759_10156797103337665_6168091349414313984_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMgfb1pUzVlQEYdThjfFpGeR_dmZeOIphlNHi8GzrjH2XUPqS8uyMpjUZFXrGMUdNpto4qE6tF1erenUuD87EWYn4Ig7wIirbK9yghcZPFeQ0fb8VxlS6wlXXgXbtYamaNPa3d1utiCS9/s960/89394974_10156879213357665_7625421714846908416_n.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaMgfb1pUzVlQEYdThjfFpGeR_dmZeOIphlNHi8GzrjH2XUPqS8uyMpjUZFXrGMUdNpto4qE6tF1erenUuD87EWYn4Ig7wIirbK9yghcZPFeQ0fb8VxlS6wlXXgXbtYamaNPa3d1utiCS9/w240-h320/89394974_10156879213357665_7625421714846908416_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIHAMIsMCULabtMsXB54bY4r4X3eKkK_0QSG624l4ukcQfARzN5-u6DKCDklM2EpqkRyydtzn5BRjYGR_Uj7XBfpJB8QJWctuBZUXt9va18kKthsGMoOQ5BT2t-VoeN5sN027IZAt8Szn/s1440/90676794_10156918855267665_4092153180731736064_o.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQIHAMIsMCULabtMsXB54bY4r4X3eKkK_0QSG624l4ukcQfARzN5-u6DKCDklM2EpqkRyydtzn5BRjYGR_Uj7XBfpJB8QJWctuBZUXt9va18kKthsGMoOQ5BT2t-VoeN5sN027IZAt8Szn/w320-h240/90676794_10156918855267665_4092153180731736064_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3aj1Av_iBgwdcp0aS74K2ilJLJ70oA-7PkVXtRnI_ToUoe0_-ZKPPGJ70q06J-OCyDhzrAPCu8hUZlHHFkimWhQYoa_wfLlTpqn2DbDuyb9QL9_c8Y3ULVen8sveBr2J61Ab3NKewLZc8/s960/119060490_10157415955577665_7481283851143731438_n.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3aj1Av_iBgwdcp0aS74K2ilJLJ70oA-7PkVXtRnI_ToUoe0_-ZKPPGJ70q06J-OCyDhzrAPCu8hUZlHHFkimWhQYoa_wfLlTpqn2DbDuyb9QL9_c8Y3ULVen8sveBr2J61Ab3NKewLZc8/w320-h240/119060490_10157415955577665_7481283851143731438_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS4MUMAsPq4tRriZUHScsrSNr10-Ent1ncqnFLGmix68m0aHy7x3K8B3xnZsOGGTtuQ_Snf_W6WtrUf8YeiixD6EllaPdD8sSD9M4mtpNnqz7MTanzlY8elWjRoL8phidP5mmZQHounMwG/s1051/119936065_10157430136577665_5916866191817243132_o.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="1051" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS4MUMAsPq4tRriZUHScsrSNr10-Ent1ncqnFLGmix68m0aHy7x3K8B3xnZsOGGTtuQ_Snf_W6WtrUf8YeiixD6EllaPdD8sSD9M4mtpNnqz7MTanzlY8elWjRoL8phidP5mmZQHounMwG/w320-h219/119936065_10157430136577665_5916866191817243132_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuRGDYSfd5ZoFAcIJumacgUFw-LEzfLRav6_POuvQTNVbE8aYQWk0Khb-3B0yLrIRYcox1jTQM9C6dv-VIkkOdIk8cZqyfZ9fGAq44dRTGW4zSKhCbC5GHhHaQsx35AbeMFCtjNdCyEPM/s1440/120041993_10157438103887665_4185257483016316139_o.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Is 2020 gone yet?" border="0" data-original-height="1422" data-original-width="1440" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuRGDYSfd5ZoFAcIJumacgUFw-LEzfLRav6_POuvQTNVbE8aYQWk0Khb-3B0yLrIRYcox1jTQM9C6dv-VIkkOdIk8cZqyfZ9fGAq44dRTGW4zSKhCbC5GHhHaQsx35AbeMFCtjNdCyEPM/w320-h317/120041993_10157438103887665_4185257483016316139_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-91109877548451737382020-07-30T11:09:00.003-04:002022-04-15T10:55:09.985-04:00150 Socially Distanced Summer Miles, Stuck in Neutral<div class="separator"><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator"><div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">So this summer has kinda been lackluster, hasn't it? Well, not totally, but most of those stereotypical summer experiences, events, tasks, trips, recreations and visits have either been postponed, cancelled or have gone to the less than exciting "virtual" stage. We shouldn't complain because it has become a must to pull out all the necessary procedures to stem the spread of COVID-19. The more we do now, the less we will have to deal with it long-term....or at least that's what we hope.</div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWtrKI2-KJwAmmPLUinSlkfBkU3J8jy8nl48O98_V9zgfE4_uv2dIoHE2zr5ZDaTUvflfJwqLXhY5Nxl86Xx2RYgEFvEZNPfbhBdlE0StiQx_opR18jRv-ZNski1jzRkCrchdml0S7Pu8C/s960/106705416_10157250374052665_4466340011014981244_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWtrKI2-KJwAmmPLUinSlkfBkU3J8jy8nl48O98_V9zgfE4_uv2dIoHE2zr5ZDaTUvflfJwqLXhY5Nxl86Xx2RYgEFvEZNPfbhBdlE0StiQx_opR18jRv-ZNski1jzRkCrchdml0S7Pu8C/w250-h188/106705416_10157250374052665_4466340011014981244_n.jpg" title="L taking in what Lake Erie has to offer" width="250" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">L taking in what Lake Erie<br />has to offer</font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table>Running hasn't been cancelled, but it does make it less enjoyable when the running events are unable to take place. Practicing our best social distancing, L and I have made something of the summer thus far. We spent a portion of July 4th weekend at Lake Erie, took some day trips for fun places to run with scenery, visited my Mom so L could experience why you don't play scrabble with her...Linda smeared us both - which is something that was as commonplace as the sun rising each day growing up. Oh, and we have paid more attention to our garden which should give us a bountiful harvest soon. </div><div><br /></div><div>Work, luckily, returned to as normal as you can get it with all the craziness for the both of us. I even had one of those "what just happened" episodes take place. A patron at the library where I work parked her SUV in order to walk up and place items in our return slot. Watching from behind the front desk through our glass doors, as she got about halfway to the dropbox - I see her SUV start moving in reverse. My first thought was she had arrived with someone and they were just backing up to leave once she returns. That, unfortunately, was not the case.</div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifIHYP8KAhP4hn5NTJVcgCK5d3IEo0ynHGtiuoFF0qmj-Zj18cnUoqXlIYxh8lebNjjJhi1jo_1kV3iajBnpXXfePixY4bypLxqVip-hRsCAOPiQsCipEMIbMYd4yZg6653Q9StJWZ_M9W/s1280/Inkedthumbnail_20200723_150301_LI.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifIHYP8KAhP4hn5NTJVcgCK5d3IEo0ynHGtiuoFF0qmj-Zj18cnUoqXlIYxh8lebNjjJhi1jo_1kV3iajBnpXXfePixY4bypLxqVip-hRsCAOPiQsCipEMIbMYd4yZg6653Q9StJWZ_M9W/s320/Inkedthumbnail_20200723_150301_LI.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font size="2"><b><i>Nothing to see here, please move along</i></b></font></td></tr></tbody></table>The vehicle starts moving faster and I can now clearly see there is no one in it. Just as I mouth the phrase <i>"Oh Sh*t", </i>the woman turns to see her escaping SUV, lets out an inaudible yelp, drops her items and chases after her beloved mode of transportation. The white bandit rolls straight back though our relatively empty parking lot, missing any and all parking slots (as if it had eyes), down the apron, across Cummins Avenue, over the curb, onto the sidewalk and crashes into the brick wall surrounding that lot's residence and knocks over the section of iron fencing sitting atop of it.</div><div><br /></div><div>Seconds later, the chasing woman arrives at the destruction and drops her head in defeat as her unsuccessful attempt to catch her disorderly, unmanned ride ends with a shattered rear window, crunched fender, a soon-to-be dented bank account and an undetermined span of embarrassment.</div><div><br /></div><div>Funny, if only we could get this summer to stay in neutral - as long as we are on level ground, of course.</div><div><p class="MsoNormal">For something a little different, we did take part in a
couple of virtual running events. To prepare for a half marathon later this
year, L did Columbus Running Company's <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Columbus/FindYourLimitMileChallenge"><i>Find Your Limit Virtual Mile Challenge</i></a>
where folks run a mile every 15 minutes for as long as they can (or want to) in
a 24 hour period. Running around our neighborhood, starting & stopping at
your house, L put in 16 miles.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyl5OB-RqUf7nqPUQUzmCgiXsqJMvuJ1IV2SdL5_3FUO6QQzBeEOySLOKjymc0EIZpZqyx0GPLP16XYso_RhXgBQ24BINADog5JMMkPi6wuEYLcLI4BU3PwRO_mS39cY7g8NMSfqmoD4hh/s2891/13580504_1041796242555736_5200392096968700148_o.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="2891" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyl5OB-RqUf7nqPUQUzmCgiXsqJMvuJ1IV2SdL5_3FUO6QQzBeEOySLOKjymc0EIZpZqyx0GPLP16XYso_RhXgBQ24BINADog5JMMkPi6wuEYLcLI4BU3PwRO_mS39cY7g8NMSfqmoD4hh/s320/13580504_1041796242555736_5200392096968700148_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></p>I joined some Buck Fifty teammates & others in running Race Penguin's
<a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Columbus/4x1milex2hoursTeamChallengeColumbus"><i>4 x 1 mile x 2 hours Team Challenge</i></a>. The relay's premise was to see how many
miles your team can cover in a two hour period with each team member running
one mile at a time while Race Penguin's Columbus headquarters acted as the
start & finish. Jonathan, Mark, Sarah and I put in 20 completed miles with
yours truly about two-thirds of the way through mile 21 before our allotted two
hour time period came to an end. It was simply something fun and different to do. </div><div><br /></div><div>Other than working on general race speed the last few weeks & months, it has been relatively quite. </div><div><br /></div><div>That is until last April's postponed <a href="https://www.thebuckfifty.com/"><i>Buck Fifty - Southern Ohio's 150 mile, 24 hour, 10 person team relay</i></a> - issued some COVID-19 adjustments and made a triumphant return in late July to take place for the fourth consecutive year! The Traffic Panthers would be back in action, but with what could be a cruel twist. Instead of the cool (sometimes cold), breezy, wet atmosphere of early spring - we would have to do it in the hot, humid, unforgiving, thickness of Ohio's summer electric blanket.</div><div><br /></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: left; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s1600/Final+Sport.jpg" style="clear: left; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s200/Final+Sport.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal"><b><i>**We back EVERY pair with </i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b><i><a href="https://shadyrays.com/pages/official-live-hard-warranty-overview" style="color: #de7008;">FREE Replacements</a> if Lost or Broken</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>**</i></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div></td></tr></tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: right; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s1600/DH4A7305.jpg" style="clear: right; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s200/DH4A7305.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b>**Each order also secures 11 meals </b></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b>to fight hunger through </b></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><i><b><a href="http://fabackup.feedingamerica.org/optimized-homepage/?_ga=2.251139073.647855481.1504895789-1536808043.1504895789" style="color: #de7008;">Feeding America</a>**</b></i></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><b style="background-color: transparent;">We are an independent sunglasses company </b><span style="background-color: transparent;">for those who don't want to buy from a massive, faceless company that has been operating the same way for decades </span></b></div><div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><a href="http://shadyrays.com/" style="color: #de7008;">shadyrays.com</a></b></div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNbsHJvCu6PEDdY9xZUm6KKP-9S3bJdQYEC8SXSJwILE8DPNQUf2zMzCdAnLZtt_PwvBR0X-8P14RBq2lQzQLllhv1QwaAJGdaVNtyWmdJddo1XOL6NLwNKeG_XNS7dwCrrDZsS7vcXsf/s1600/shady+rays.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="123" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNbsHJvCu6PEDdY9xZUm6KKP-9S3bJdQYEC8SXSJwILE8DPNQUf2zMzCdAnLZtt_PwvBR0X-8P14RBq2lQzQLllhv1QwaAJGdaVNtyWmdJddo1XOL6NLwNKeG_XNS7dwCrrDZsS7vcXsf/s1600/shady+rays.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">To make it happen, routes were changed, team adjustments took place, rules were upgraded, steps were eliminated and virtual options were offered. But most of all, additional safety procedures were instituted and upgraded by a thousand percent. With Ohio's statewide mandatory mask requirement issued the the day before we were to start, this year's version of The Buck Fifty would be an experience like no other. I, and the rest of my Traffic Panthers Van #1 teammates, would start us off on Friday, July 24th at 3:30 pm. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: black; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga-S6ptIzXDpwqn6ySy0MJEr8x-PES0Bn6Ub0IVNwXEF3ZlkxHtSUg2DGKWaXIjKvP5_QfFV7qHN8Ubs4yFZg48MxRMJFqkScczQKsGYoOvEH3lQQ89ZNbQvmdBkf7LQsVedVuwfeOfFzG/s960/116154900_10157305386907665_5032296406429720557_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga-S6ptIzXDpwqn6ySy0MJEr8x-PES0Bn6Ub0IVNwXEF3ZlkxHtSUg2DGKWaXIjKvP5_QfFV7qHN8Ubs4yFZg48MxRMJFqkScczQKsGYoOvEH3lQQ89ZNbQvmdBkf7LQsVedVuwfeOfFzG/s320/116154900_10157305386907665_5032296406429720557_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><font size="2">The Buck Fifty Start/Finish Line</font></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table></span>Before driving the 90 minutes south to meet up with my cohorts, I swung by the Huntington Bank in Delaware to make a deposit. As I insert cash into the ATM, I hear a crackling noise. Turning to my right I see members of the construction crew in the street fleeing in various directions as the backhoe they are working with hits a utility pole. The wires snap in half, creating a momentary white & blue fire in the sky. Frozen in disbelief, I'm not sure if I should throw it in reverse or stay sheltered under the bank ATM atrium. The gentleman in the SUV next to me in the deposit lane with the pneumatic tube, looks my way and says, "<i>What just happened?"</i><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I give him a quick synopsis and breathe a sigh of relief as it looks like no one was injured. That brief release of tension reversed itself as I turn back toward the ATM and it's now blank screen. It took my money, then immediately lost power. I begrudgingly back out of the ATM lane, park my car and wander inside. Once there I'm greeted with a friendly "hello" and told there may be a wait as they have mysterious lost power.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Vr0AFoKIiIkb9rGrF5dqA9Ymag49LdvNmmZIr3n68w9uBAzSdmy9uvbtoOqGbH7PCTqD-xBd6P64mjSRw6pfkcKSTt-ehfMob5mMG9jmwYkn7nclrip-q5CRA_Ott_PAIkGEIFDwmSAe/s256/leg+1.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="234" data-original-width="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Vr0AFoKIiIkb9rGrF5dqA9Ymag49LdvNmmZIr3n68w9uBAzSdmy9uvbtoOqGbH7PCTqD-xBd6P64mjSRw6pfkcKSTt-ehfMob5mMG9jmwYkn7nclrip-q5CRA_Ott_PAIkGEIFDwmSAe/s0/leg+1.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">The Buck Fifty Leg #3, my first leg</font><font size="1">.<br /><br /></font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: left;">Shaking my head in agreement, I then explain to them what I just witnessed, <i><u>why</u> </i>they do not have power and the reason for having to come inside. We then wait 30 minutes for their system to reboot, then another 20 minutes for them to retrieve my hijacked ATM card and wad of cash. Luckily, it all checked out and a manual deposit was completed. As I drive away, I glance back to see the victimized utility pole snapped in half with the upper portion dangling & swaying in the breeze as it was still somewhat support by the wires that had not been compromised by the rogue, amber colored excavator.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Hoping this was not foreshadowing our weekend race result, we didn't start out on the right foot with Mark attempting to beat the world on leg one in the crazy mid afternoon heat. Upon finishing he was woozy, lightheaded and had to be helped back to the van. Forcing fluids & food into his system and sitting in front of the air conditioner on full blast, he slowly came back to reality. Asked what he had eaten up to that point, he only mentioned a bagel - IT WAS 4:15 IN THE AFTERNOON! We let him know how stupid this was and even more stupid was the fact he did nearly the same thing attempting to run the Nationwide Children's Columbus Marathon last fall. At the time he collapsed on mile 24 and went to the emergency room - he can be a dipsh*t sometimes.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It was funny, though, when we put Mark in the van. His phone was still attached to his arm blaring music as he was attempting to come back to life. About 15 minutes later as we are on the road, he starts rifling through the dashboard and side door pockets. Our driver, Mike, asks him what he's looking for and Mark mumbles, <i>"I'm trying to find my phone." </i>I reached up from behind and tap his shoulder, <i>"Mark, the phone is still on your arm dude." </i>Trying not to make light of his state of well being at the time, I smile broadly while holding back laughter and see Mike staring back at me from the rearview doing the same. Once he fully recovered, which wasn't long, Mark would not remember most of what took place after his first run. Though, he did find the phone thing quite hilarious.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My first leg (#3 overall) would be a modified version of itself due to COVID-19 restraints. Instead of it's regular 5.6 mile length, it would be a 3.6 mile jaunt starting at the Hopewell Mound National Park parking lot. I would turn left on Sulphur Lick, then a quick left onto Maple Grove for about three miles before taking a right onto County Road 550 and finishing at the Sun Valley Campground Shelter house.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0i5IQt1MAdaM_vDyvUXVAwtxXeL_6EJEv_qwZ_FUrcfmlkvsUxY_pR5BtjWrZEgjdO2B8PLJDptimLnA9_EThkQ-roNKI4EaBudg9iQnzd2diC7qhM41YIufQSDvpy1rLWJ2yEMStU2cJ/s960/all+of+us.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0i5IQt1MAdaM_vDyvUXVAwtxXeL_6EJEv_qwZ_FUrcfmlkvsUxY_pR5BtjWrZEgjdO2B8PLJDptimLnA9_EThkQ-roNKI4EaBudg9iQnzd2diC7qhM41YIufQSDvpy1rLWJ2yEMStU2cJ/s320/all+of+us.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><font size="2">A mix of van #1 & van #2 at the first exchange at <br />Adena High School: Me, Mark<br />Gary, Sarah and Chris.</font></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table>Teammate Tom arrives from his nine mile leg two in a weary state, but not in the death-warmed-over state like Mark. I take off at 6:00 pm and pass two competitors in the first 300 meters, one them has already started walking- yeah, it was that hot. A motorcycle official rides by offering some water and I gladly accept as a rather long incline arrives about halfway through. On the decline on the other side I let my momentum carry me forward on up to CR 550 and make my way to the campground. A quick hand-off to Josh and my first run is an uneventful 3.6 miles in 25:45. In the ensuing exchanges, Josh hands off to Dave who then hands of to Teammate Gary and our van #2 at Adena High School. Van #2 heads into action and we now head off to Mike's house to rest up and return a few hours later to the grain mill in Kingston to take the hand-off from van #2 for our second round of legs. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">At Mike's house we scarf down loads of scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon and coffee <i>(not to mention my tradition of a beer between runs, this year it was a Great Lakes Brewing Eliot Ness Lager). </i>While my teammates slept, I sat up for awhile chatting with Mike's wife Amy and their family about anything & everything. I eventually make it downstairs to relax for about 45 minutes, but couldn't sleep. I was keyed up and ready to go.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Once at the grain mill, we find our teammates awaiting the arrival of Chris. We exchange details about our runs and what we have experienced thus far while mingling among the hundreds of runners, friends and race volunteers. Before too long, through the Friday night darkness and glowing lights of the grain mill, Chris arrives and hands off to Mark - Van #1 is back in action, Van #2 heads out to recover.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib11yEg2_LB2x6JQz0vYd7O7TzV5I2aKeZaKmLGx6kNGfYhvLiJAW147TU7VG5Xf2GCgtFHFocTwT7Xe3-v11LyrWtdAOdYbkrVFW5BBL4tik-Uct82zvUbSIdmKvAII7fXTsg14LnUaW6/s722/Leg+2.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="488" data-original-width="722" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib11yEg2_LB2x6JQz0vYd7O7TzV5I2aKeZaKmLGx6kNGfYhvLiJAW147TU7VG5Xf2GCgtFHFocTwT7Xe3-v11LyrWtdAOdYbkrVFW5BBL4tik-Uct82zvUbSIdmKvAII7fXTsg14LnUaW6/w256-h173/Leg+2.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><font size="2"><b><i>The Buck Fifty Leg #13, my second leg</i></b></font><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">Once Mark arrives - in one piece this time - at Zane Trace High School, he hands of to Tom who has 3.1 miles to cover.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My second leg also had to be adjusted from the pre-COVID route. I would start at Waste Management's parking lot and turn left onto Chamber Drive, make a left on Hopetown Road, then a right onto Marietta Road, then a slight right onto Lick Run and finish at the Springfield Township Firehouse. This route, too, was all road. Normally it would be a pain in rear trek along the rugged trails of Great Seal State Park. And another adjustment took place here as one of the original routes had to be eliminated. As a result, I and teammate Josh (our #4 runner) would run this 4.7 mile route together.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">As Josh and I are waiting for Tom, a couple of other guys eager to run are wondering where their teammate has gone. The faster dude on this elite team should have arrived by now, but before we know it Tom arrives first and Josh & I take off at 1:00 am. I'm a bit faster than Josh and pass a couple of groups of two as I make my way onto Marietta Road with my headlamp and security lights. Soon, though, I notice a headlamp and security lights headed toward me. A little confused, but I continue on as we pass each other like foot vessels in the quiet night.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I trek the rolling hills with ease, making sure to pay attention to the painted road markers and reflective <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIl7dKyCrNikEnpe0AIOK60QzMViq6z8xQznVML1VVOOnKE6uMKbqGlJqvWeoNf2fw2woPqRTj9pWOadkb7jL2NHn7HPNqOY53gsssttwNPDkmD_i4bHLrLk7rq3QXwS8HWQO3jpVGz0Av/s960/grain+mill.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIl7dKyCrNikEnpe0AIOK60QzMViq6z8xQznVML1VVOOnKE6uMKbqGlJqvWeoNf2fw2woPqRTj9pWOadkb7jL2NHn7HPNqOY53gsssttwNPDkmD_i4bHLrLk7rq3QXwS8HWQO3jpVGz0Av/s320/grain+mill.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><font size="2"><b>The grain mill in Kingston, van transition <br />location #2.</b></font></i><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>indicators of which direction I should be going. I arrive at the fire station ready to hand off, but I see no teammate Dave. I yell out our team number (26) a couple of times as I gasp for breath and drip with sweat in the humid night air. A race official even asks me if I'm at the right check point, thinking maybe I had taken a wrong turn. I annoying stated I was at the right location, then suddenly Dave appears apologizing for not being ready when I arrived. Apparently, I was a bit faster than they had thought and were late in making their way from the van. Anyway, I covered the 4.7 miles in 31:06.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Oh, and come to find out, the reason I was asked if I was at the right location by the official was due to the guy I passed going the opposite direction. He WAS the missing fast guy from the previous group. He had turned the wrong direction on the previous route and had to back track a few miles in order to find his teammates.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We trek to Walnut Creek Campground for van transition number three and await the arrival of Dave. There, we meet up with members of Van #2 who are weary eyed from having their short nap interrupted for their second round of legs. Mingling with a variety of teams and acquaintances, we see Dave's headlamp and lights arrive in the darkness to hand off to Gary. Van #2 heads off and we head back to Mike's place for a needed, much longer, nap.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieyma1RDc9WAfQfessA8K0qJ7uvIEfZVtSLsqutYwC2HJtS5q9b0mpKMa8z3ooSt4jR5J-OSrrhITh1AIXoyKvkcMnEeEk07UDf3R8dMfY0TqLZtqyh_sQTApUx0zEjwNOUcv6JzDK_zYX/s960/3333333+pic.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieyma1RDc9WAfQfessA8K0qJ7uvIEfZVtSLsqutYwC2HJtS5q9b0mpKMa8z3ooSt4jR5J-OSrrhITh1AIXoyKvkcMnEeEk07UDf3R8dMfY0TqLZtqyh_sQTApUx0zEjwNOUcv6JzDK_zYX/s320/3333333+pic.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">Saturday morning at Southeastern High School</font></b></i><br /></td></tr></tbody></table>Upon arrival, we scarf on the remainder of the breakfast foods from intermission #1 (I also down my second post run beer), take some welcomed showers and crash. I get about 90 minutes of sleep before my mind moves back to running mode and I'm wide awake. As I move around, my teammates slowing awaken from the death-like state and we head out to Southeastern High School for van transition #4. Early Saturday morning was blanketed with a thick fog, so navigating the roads, driving or running, was a bit treacherous. Though, it did leave for some outstanding views. Thankfully, the folks at my alma mater had coffee at the ready and I was all to eager to quickly down two cups as we met back up with our van two family. The sun my have come up, but headlamps and body lights were still a must as sight distances were short & sporadic. Within moments, Chris arrives and hands of to Mark for our final trip through the gauntlet. We head out and Van #2 heads for another brief slumber.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">At Shelly & Sands, Inc. Mark hands off to Tom who begins our venture though Scioto Trail State Forest. When this race takes place in April, the trails are quite clear, but here in midsummer they are overgrown and insects are in full force. This made off road navigation quite the adventure. As we arrived at our next check point to await the arrival of Tom, I'm keyed up and ready to go. I have warmed up and I'm hoping to tackle the giant hills ahead of me.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfb7H3gc2_MwU5AV9b0NRBPBSdbfew5TQzQpDv5TDJTst87NMImquxC-Ybak3_BOJ1ZedZ9_6s3sLVL7D62LZaRxKY1B9Y7tSAwqlU4BrWA1qfEZebv7B8AcLVzCCVO2IN55WtQrSHAjWF/s575/Leg+3.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="575" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfb7H3gc2_MwU5AV9b0NRBPBSdbfew5TQzQpDv5TDJTst87NMImquxC-Ybak3_BOJ1ZedZ9_6s3sLVL7D62LZaRxKY1B9Y7tSAwqlU4BrWA1qfEZebv7B8AcLVzCCVO2IN55WtQrSHAjWF/s320/Leg+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">The Buck Fifty Leg #23, my third leg</font></b></i><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">My third and final route did not have to be adjusted. It would stay it's old, frustrating self. I would start at the Stoney Creek parking area trail head, turning right onto Stoney Creek Road, then turn right again onto North Ridge Road - a gravel covered roller coaster of Appalachian foothills covering 630 feet of elevation and finishing at the Fire Tower 5.26 miles later.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Luckily, I had the pleasure of running this route twice in the last few months - though - it only seemed to get better when I closed my eyes. When it came to about the time we were to expect Tom, I see a competitor who looked like he would be at about my level or better ready to roll. Wondering if I would be fighting him along the way, I try to cobble together some strategy. Suddenly, Tom arrives and I'm off at 8:45 am. About a minute later, I hear the cheers behind me indicating my competitor has taken off as well. My goal was to do all I could to make sure he didn't pass me.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Onto North Ridge Road I go and I let my recent experience on this leg be my advantage. Up and around, up again, around again and up some more as the never ending incline methodically rolls by. I pass two folks, but only give hand gestures as a greeting because the effort it would take to actually talk just wouldn't be worth it. I pass a motorcycle official who offers water, I take it but sip only a little and dump the rest down the back of my neck. The sun is in full force now and it is humid. Soon, I see competitors coming the opposite direction, this is a welcomed sign because it means I'm near the end as the next leg shares a portion of this route.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYdAbeYC43-Tdim7BzQZyFEx_Cx3KOhhgUiZQHYdilHg82yjR-iN45vwc_iNcL4TNGHwaF-m7ggwudygt-tLSs6WWnsl35A-GQ4QP0zVKA5nFiHHdtsr8lcnPST-anxkYPXrB1Fe64X3kr/s960/116247113_10157305388187665_5100057496125397903_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYdAbeYC43-Tdim7BzQZyFEx_Cx3KOhhgUiZQHYdilHg82yjR-iN45vwc_iNcL4TNGHwaF-m7ggwudygt-tLSs6WWnsl35A-GQ4QP0zVKA5nFiHHdtsr8lcnPST-anxkYPXrB1Fe64X3kr/s320/116247113_10157305388187665_5100057496125397903_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><font size="2">The only shade available at Open Door Church,<br />next to a shipping container behind the <br />parking lot. It was freakin' hot.<br /><br /></font></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table>I have not seen or heard anyone behind me the entire time and pass another as I make my way to the top of the seemingly endless hill. Race volunteers, the finish chute and teammates come into view with Josh eagerly awaiting my arrival. We great each with an air five as I come to a stop on my final leg and he takes off. I've covered the 5.26 miles of incline in 38:46 and walk a bit to catch my breathe. A few moments later, the dude who took off just after I did arrives. I smirk to myself knowing I had successfully kept him behind and didn't allow him to gain on me.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">After chatting with checkpoint volunteer Stacia, a childhood friend whose family I basically grew up with, for a few minutes, we head out to the next stop to await the arrival of Josh. As we and other teams linger around patiently expecting their teammate to appear out of the woods, I'm scarfing down twizzlers and a sports drink. Before long, a Chillicothe Police cruiser pulls up along the road next to the trail head. Everyone's curiosity spikes, but smiles ensue as a runner exits the car with sheepish grin. Apparently, this gentleman took a wrong turn on the trail and ran several miles in the wrong direction and upon being discovered by the officers they were kind enough to give him a ride back to his awaiting team.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJn8WkPWqGVU1x8aPeK6hr_epdBLMzrWXZBdsf6H66rWjWfOXj5jGIRvXVwICfSs19GXOwFBCQfqfW8EieWR_VtvVZQV9kLfb5PVri3CUH7jUQ8BXHK6wiwFBmD2ft9msskOeee4vxqYg/s247/all+of+us2.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="121" data-original-width="247" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZJn8WkPWqGVU1x8aPeK6hr_epdBLMzrWXZBdsf6H66rWjWfOXj5jGIRvXVwICfSs19GXOwFBCQfqfW8EieWR_VtvVZQV9kLfb5PVri3CUH7jUQ8BXHK6wiwFBmD2ft9msskOeee4vxqYg/w309-h151/all+of+us2.jpg" width="309" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><font size="2"><b><i>The 2020 Traffic Panthers (minus Mike)</i></b></font> <font size="2"><b><i>- </i></b></font></div><div><font size="2"><b><i>medals and</i></b></font><font size="2"><b><i> our finisher's box of </i></b></font></div><div><i><b><font size="2">Crispie Crème donuts.</font></b></i></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">Soon Josh arrives and Dave takes off for our final stop. We pile up in the van for the last transition at Open Door Church. As we get there we realize we lucked out as it is now directly in the middle of the afternoon, it is 90 degrees and the humidity is at it's peak. We find our van #2 members relaxing in what little shade they can find. Fighting his way through the heat, Dave arrives and Gary takes off for the start of van #2's final trek. We head back to Mike's house and most of my teammates head to their homes to then meet back up at the event's start/finish line. I shower and head out to the finish and mingle with the crowd of Buck Fifty teams.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Waiting with my van #1 teammates, we are alerted via text that van #2 has had a rough go in the heat and we would be waiting a bit longer. When van #2 arrives they give details on the nastiness they had to endure, but luckily everyone is doing well. Before long, Chris arrives from our final leg and we cross the finish line together around 3:15 pm to end our nearly 24 hour Ross County adventure. We go our separate ways in order find real food and get some significant sleep. I drive the 90 minutes home in a zombie-like state revisiting the past 24 hours to keep my mind occupied.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJu8ZJBdd3obIbZ2MPeRgLRVnrRAIQcAFluU1T9tqYOlXKdxOf9VRW-6LQ-y7QnwcwjEpfBfb5rD8Ey3FDJ6uuJF4zW-VIS-O1Dtvn8aoTXqDpN8t-8o0ryxuFNs4g-cD-p3hv5ErZmNz6/s960/InkedFinish_LI.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="782" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJu8ZJBdd3obIbZ2MPeRgLRVnrRAIQcAFluU1T9tqYOlXKdxOf9VRW-6LQ-y7QnwcwjEpfBfb5rD8Ey3FDJ6uuJF4zW-VIS-O1Dtvn8aoTXqDpN8t-8o0ryxuFNs4g-cD-p3hv5ErZmNz6/s320/InkedFinish_LI.jpg" /></a></div>When all was said and done, we had 54 teams take part. Not too shabby, though we did have 108 teams signed up when the race was supposed to take place in April before COVID reared it's ugly head. As a team, the Traffic Panthers finished<i> <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/56d79aa6f8baf3e77eb46522/t/5f1d93984c3ccd4dea6493a8/1595773849181/2020+Buck+Fifty+Results+-+Preliminary.pdf">22nd with a time of 23:43:43</a></i>. With all that took place, we were just 2:15 slower than last year when we placed 27th out of 78 teams. Yes, the heat played a major factor in how we finished but we can't complain - we were actually able to take part in a race that wasn't cancelled or postponed until the following year - which is what has happened to nearly all of them in 2020.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We now have 2021 to look forward to, but next year's version of the Traffic Panthers will look a little different. In the days following the race, this team of 40 plus - and near 40 - year-old's had a couple of members announce their retirement from Buck Fifty competition. So with that said, a big THANK YOU to the 2020 version: <i>Mark, Tom, Josh, Dave, Mike, Gary, Patricia, Sarah, Chris, Dustin & Zach.</i> We shall see what new faces will join us when we start the journey for a fifth consecutive year in the coming months.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It has been a weird year, to say the least, and there is no quick fix or answer to make everything okay again. We are all tired of it and COVID-19 doesn't seem to be regressing, so we need to continue to follow proper safety procedures - whether we like it or not. Suck it up - it isn't about you, it's about being human and not being selfish for once.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Grow up, wear a damn mask, stop making it worse...it has been a cruel summer for all of us....</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><u><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9ml3nyww80">Cruel Summer - Bananarama</a></u></i></b></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Hot summer streets</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And the pavements are burning</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I sit around </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Trying to smile but </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The air is so heavy and dry </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Strange voices are saying </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(What did they say?) </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Things I can't understand </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>It's too close for comfort </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>This heat has got </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Right out of hand </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>It's a cruel, (cruel), cruel summer </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Leaving me) leaving me here on my own </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>It's a cruel, (it's a cruel), cruel summer </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Now you're gone </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The city is crowded</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>My friends are away</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And I'm on my own </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>It's too hot to handle </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>So I got to get up and go </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>It's a cruel, (cruel), cruel summer </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Leaving me) leaving me here on my own </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>It's a cruel, (it's a cruel), cruel summer </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Now you're gone </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>It's a cruel, (cruel), cruel summer </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Leaving me) leaving me here on my own </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>It's a cruel, (it's a cruel), cruel summer </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Now you're gone</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0FgLGUDrTY8zM-iEssvClsvyvjQH4LnTGNgFMO-BBCoUqO1ekxtzenfPeP6xLWGsflXbvfiSd0ThFolNet3L6efUlvfXs2u1OZrSsTcDgC5GHpWdi1n2z_p6PbaUtYLLSptUj-4kwvtjO/s960/115929634_10157305388352665_5473488749176904514_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0FgLGUDrTY8zM-iEssvClsvyvjQH4LnTGNgFMO-BBCoUqO1ekxtzenfPeP6xLWGsflXbvfiSd0ThFolNet3L6efUlvfXs2u1OZrSsTcDgC5GHpWdi1n2z_p6PbaUtYLLSptUj-4kwvtjO/s320/115929634_10157305388352665_5473488749176904514_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><font size="2">The Shelly & Sands checkpoint Saturday morning<br /><br /></font></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><b></b><i></i><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrF-CG8gjaVH_NkXOR9kDCS-44Knz4RkKBvca9u2iutPZWtj73NxisuS_yLTH9GAIAPQ4jBYaGdoMt-ET9WnRQtBxRaAVUPWcqdcORJ-xh5Eh45sgF6tO6mUKFgx6DBF7Nb0Flrwh1voH/s960/115993011_10157305387767665_2799793084471519132_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilrF-CG8gjaVH_NkXOR9kDCS-44Knz4RkKBvca9u2iutPZWtj73NxisuS_yLTH9GAIAPQ4jBYaGdoMt-ET9WnRQtBxRaAVUPWcqdcORJ-xh5Eh45sgF6tO6mUKFgx6DBF7Nb0Flrwh1voH/s320/115993011_10157305387767665_2799793084471519132_n%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><font size="2">Late night breakfast after leg 1.<br /><br /></font></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><b></b><i></i><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MfXBfTQTgzI25UU3-ZCQ9cOstYwSZWML8G7iiqd_iUDCEQI7SA8acJyFp69Gt0g4azM6EjAeydZ6LjZpMagOf_pOHVs2gnixbZlLH7chutbsgHSYCoCOr5sVbzr4XlbapM7tINZHk9Jq/s960/116003507_10157305387797665_512313605412108726_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-MfXBfTQTgzI25UU3-ZCQ9cOstYwSZWML8G7iiqd_iUDCEQI7SA8acJyFp69Gt0g4azM6EjAeydZ6LjZpMagOf_pOHVs2gnixbZlLH7chutbsgHSYCoCOr5sVbzr4XlbapM7tINZHk9Jq/s320/116003507_10157305387797665_512313605412108726_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">Kingston Grain Mill van transition<br /><br /></font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoy-vTBP6abL9alKHgcOwDB2SuCezb07nufkLkdr17G-PnY6j9P3T7piBco5FKhz3fVzMiES9vcLAJTv8rEoe4ef9suTvs-53As6Kbx70bkFp1qGgVh3ySV7udGrjmEQqMMUfyujDs_Ts/s960/116110910_10157305388027665_2467300404152421039_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoy-vTBP6abL9alKHgcOwDB2SuCezb07nufkLkdr17G-PnY6j9P3T7piBco5FKhz3fVzMiES9vcLAJTv8rEoe4ef9suTvs-53As6Kbx70bkFp1qGgVh3ySV7udGrjmEQqMMUfyujDs_Ts/s320/116110910_10157305388027665_2467300404152421039_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><font size="2">Saturday morning on the road.<br /><br /></font></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><b></b><i></i><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNHGTDNSSL-eqnCcit9nK4fe9bVhc3xAzQqocTRtEO69DevDmyWssMl5yh7T9gwJm5fD8ZkS3qk5IWRcoucERB8vyeyXE_Jr6yjga1i_K0SyemtrR_juU9jUcj5k_rNRsPLoBjT9Rvm-m/s960/116129677_10157305404692665_4376078580383180957_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNHGTDNSSL-eqnCcit9nK4fe9bVhc3xAzQqocTRtEO69DevDmyWssMl5yh7T9gwJm5fD8ZkS3qk5IWRcoucERB8vyeyXE_Jr6yjga1i_K0SyemtrR_juU9jUcj5k_rNRsPLoBjT9Rvm-m/s320/116129677_10157305404692665_4376078580383180957_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><i><b><font size="2">Van #1 (minus Dave, who was running) at</font></b></i></div><div><i><b><font size="2">the last van transition: Josh, Mark, Mike Tom & I.</font></b></i></div><div><i><b><font size="2"><br /></font></b></i></div></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbAhnoSg-AZG_1L1FaRO7YL-LgxVe6woBotDpmen5-H-BojtY0CaXcYsoW7f5bY_qxbG0yqyPtmH1wf_kxRv1QHbREWHKVBj-5EflU-cJnVD1QWJnfzrBVFPl5RqgcS_ux902LpHiHHTtl/s960/116161291_10157305388282665_6042267236469605729_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><b><i><font size="2"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbAhnoSg-AZG_1L1FaRO7YL-LgxVe6woBotDpmen5-H-BojtY0CaXcYsoW7f5bY_qxbG0yqyPtmH1wf_kxRv1QHbREWHKVBj-5EflU-cJnVD1QWJnfzrBVFPl5RqgcS_ux902LpHiHHTtl/s320/116161291_10157305388282665_6042267236469605729_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></font></i></b></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><font size="2">Van #2, less than stellar nicknames<br /><br /></font></i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><b></b><i></i><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_oD8y7wduXLvIHEWrr_OyNozlQnuxEgTaosHEjtWka64oH5oOeDOBzDiE5zQ8Ms34J4nAWn1J1_fw7_HZeSFq-tPJPlCsH6NvYk5k1Ml_HChRs3KCtWz2w-1XRn6L4TnMeYs3nn1hFJC/s960/116213685_10157305387822665_4711988491031225712_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_oD8y7wduXLvIHEWrr_OyNozlQnuxEgTaosHEjtWka64oH5oOeDOBzDiE5zQ8Ms34J4nAWn1J1_fw7_HZeSFq-tPJPlCsH6NvYk5k1Ml_HChRs3KCtWz2w-1XRn6L4TnMeYs3nn1hFJC/s320/116213685_10157305387822665_4711988491031225712_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">Kingston Grain Mill van transition<br /><br /></font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3_O4ZAT8qzay_7cwbLV7pue4hHs1Hz9JJ6JwHyLmFkp4e4T97tuZZ-ENdHLnHrfZJvZznTzTSkCkeS7O9CUKb9XtAg3wUl3HEwN-9I4eFSsq4OU_ADl6UTqny5DCBgqHaKMrlkgaEGIxg/s960/116219326_10157305387682665_8813535415090167465_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3_O4ZAT8qzay_7cwbLV7pue4hHs1Hz9JJ6JwHyLmFkp4e4T97tuZZ-ENdHLnHrfZJvZznTzTSkCkeS7O9CUKb9XtAg3wUl3HEwN-9I4eFSsq4OU_ADl6UTqny5DCBgqHaKMrlkgaEGIxg/s320/116219326_10157305387682665_8813535415090167465_n%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">My tradition between each leg.<br /><br /></font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinALNAinv93jdL3jrSsni8kfc9v-GdxLJ7NFKFXiPHmq5m06EDADcXkBru3pvpOlkku5kbAQt9VM8lkf72ZlNoHnpV1Rgz-3zkVX6bra76apeOyhU8hNLK4W3JLIw5kbp52NjvMe-qVQH9/s960/116219337_10157305388722665_5847246449852139755_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="953" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinALNAinv93jdL3jrSsni8kfc9v-GdxLJ7NFKFXiPHmq5m06EDADcXkBru3pvpOlkku5kbAQt9VM8lkf72ZlNoHnpV1Rgz-3zkVX6bra76apeOyhU8hNLK4W3JLIw5kbp52NjvMe-qVQH9/s320/116219337_10157305388722665_5847246449852139755_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">Mark preparing for take off.<br /><br /></font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjStcRaQZx343A_d1Wff7hJdELaqTf8_fv3u1iD_cRI1Ki4L06L4AIANMz_VDjv8jzDssX1nt9OOEb3kuMNeLpHbxzx-D-EGeX_DxMRiCQivB7bhYuMZWnXSgHXeLoa9vBiaMffhyphenhyphenIiWg2Y/s960/116262086_10157305387347665_7354438485363026112_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjStcRaQZx343A_d1Wff7hJdELaqTf8_fv3u1iD_cRI1Ki4L06L4AIANMz_VDjv8jzDssX1nt9OOEb3kuMNeLpHbxzx-D-EGeX_DxMRiCQivB7bhYuMZWnXSgHXeLoa9vBiaMffhyphenhyphenIiWg2Y/s320/116262086_10157305387347665_7354438485363026112_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">Van #1 on the road - tired.<br /><br /></font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSrp3iyK4p7tZhwiOWNw1DjQ5vZ7E2Bc2VR18iXZ5YqGR5K8Qn7iVFawleEal03bqZsaiw6e3cpTzqodcQvVSQBJmRIezzSmBGuF0EKZ3QfkMO3WSymitE8Oj9abDDol37bnxpDmbJokdQ/s960/116262365_10157305387422665_2907624847291060878_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSrp3iyK4p7tZhwiOWNw1DjQ5vZ7E2Bc2VR18iXZ5YqGR5K8Qn7iVFawleEal03bqZsaiw6e3cpTzqodcQvVSQBJmRIezzSmBGuF0EKZ3QfkMO3WSymitE8Oj9abDDol37bnxpDmbJokdQ/s320/116262365_10157305387422665_2907624847291060878_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">Van #1 Driver Mike & navigator Tom<br /><br /></font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxtvK4JVoaYdQMi_7gSOzX25fQIStWAdhajYcmJrsLNndtrwYjug66MGNspmlgnXPWsibkPdmc2mwfajCyqOYsFoJv33SVc6vr7eGFPAGmS78arztIitn4Vg3AT-hT1SlQJPTwMKcN5dcS/s960/116264019_10157305387957665_5190784422950773481_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxtvK4JVoaYdQMi_7gSOzX25fQIStWAdhajYcmJrsLNndtrwYjug66MGNspmlgnXPWsibkPdmc2mwfajCyqOYsFoJv33SVc6vr7eGFPAGmS78arztIitn4Vg3AT-hT1SlQJPTwMKcN5dcS/s320/116264019_10157305387957665_5190784422950773481_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">Walnut Creek Campground van transition<br /><br /></font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenCZjbmTZzugiG2tINlNnwqU80YNId-hsfnHfZtZJP7bhSTAWWVT2J4JBQCFao6AxwZJdykDg6PqQj9c7MVmGSK2JtndKch_D7CCSI0N63R5yvGDn-66MoDNTwrohFI8129RKQv3NT-Qh/s960/116289020_10157305388797665_1173216678896740213_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenCZjbmTZzugiG2tINlNnwqU80YNId-hsfnHfZtZJP7bhSTAWWVT2J4JBQCFao6AxwZJdykDg6PqQj9c7MVmGSK2JtndKch_D7CCSI0N63R5yvGDn-66MoDNTwrohFI8129RKQv3NT-Qh/s320/116289020_10157305388797665_1173216678896740213_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><i><b><font size="2">A grab bag of vans #1 & #2 at the</font></b></i></div><div><i><b><font size="2">Southeastern High School van transition</font></b></i></div><div><i><b><font size="2"><br /></font></b></i></div></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zkTcXP2m4ClQ5kQ4dcOyzK4qIzKS_KGoqnSqCEE-OztnzQrhkGRgvXUlXj-vcZ5acwZ9MQpIFdk1BB5vzmsGsmdP2K0HrcqfNiHf6IE6YDIMOs6lZzzkpjkPZ-FuEm-XSMi60DI3o0FW/s960/116318832_10157305388447665_3006494254618332020_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4zkTcXP2m4ClQ5kQ4dcOyzK4qIzKS_KGoqnSqCEE-OztnzQrhkGRgvXUlXj-vcZ5acwZ9MQpIFdk1BB5vzmsGsmdP2K0HrcqfNiHf6IE6YDIMOs6lZzzkpjkPZ-FuEm-XSMi60DI3o0FW/s320/116318832_10157305388447665_3006494254618332020_n%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">Yours truly, sending Mark off.<br /><br /></font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR7n0ZEGMJsBr5bAWH6yhczuuRJNe4RorvqRDQ1U38iB_yNZT2CxsXqjJ-iP4v_dcFUzmtX82WChayv4ZPaGj3xwn0rGZtSV-R3SyGPrIgvu2J3pfMF6X7JzueG6Ffu9gy1fpHpBQAcX9F/s960/116336972_10157305387117665_6805315244296781842_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR7n0ZEGMJsBr5bAWH6yhczuuRJNe4RorvqRDQ1U38iB_yNZT2CxsXqjJ-iP4v_dcFUzmtX82WChayv4ZPaGj3xwn0rGZtSV-R3SyGPrIgvu2J3pfMF6X7JzueG6Ffu9gy1fpHpBQAcX9F/s320/116336972_10157305387117665_6805315244296781842_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">The Scioto River, Chillicothe.<br /><br /></font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-ayMNLxqysMZVUutFKKrPrI-EgGKBTEQMnqfMo9Mc-5Jonlm2Q8LuvuxHwW5s66LHi6gTELYkmwODVVXh6x1XDH94KIXLmgvLQ8KHsdyAWbJ6QbOyHPIel7MI37HWK7ZSnt7rsZQ86RP/s960/116337916_10157305404517665_7430322205722170860_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-ayMNLxqysMZVUutFKKrPrI-EgGKBTEQMnqfMo9Mc-5Jonlm2Q8LuvuxHwW5s66LHi6gTELYkmwODVVXh6x1XDH94KIXLmgvLQ8KHsdyAWbJ6QbOyHPIel7MI37HWK7ZSnt7rsZQ86RP/s320/116337916_10157305404517665_7430322205722170860_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><i><b><font size="2">Van #2 - Dustin, Zach, Gary, Patricia, </font></b></i></div><div><i><b><font size="2">Chris & Sarah</font></b></i></div><div><i><b><font size="2"><br /></font></b></i></div></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs2zlMKRAd26yRvL576NKs3DpA2m_BCB9NZZk2VM6yQYw_r_Y1FHwoNDrFGhvX1H2nyRdZmXATaMn6_Vm87GlwHGC3op5HNOgklVs1eXe2Eu8Z2xFgoGK9O3ILsjr0HAl4W_LtVA5aFuLR/s960/116432316_10157305388567665_125429018032728220_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs2zlMKRAd26yRvL576NKs3DpA2m_BCB9NZZk2VM6yQYw_r_Y1FHwoNDrFGhvX1H2nyRdZmXATaMn6_Vm87GlwHGC3op5HNOgklVs1eXe2Eu8Z2xFgoGK9O3ILsjr0HAl4W_LtVA5aFuLR/s320/116432316_10157305388567665_125429018032728220_n%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">Mark preparing to start us off</font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpoBJpu1ZijdhsBcUAk0psgr7UW-A6IvFDAq3ASznH2MQcrnJeNb9cZbyJWWRi0CcbOHFGroOEa-oHf_DI7ZsVtMNvZIv7Lj_tT4ckw1EKzX6G_4N_N6cK9EDsjtGBImVMPTWj7OFJxi1/s960/116581944_10157305387067665_7973290225519175994_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpoBJpu1ZijdhsBcUAk0psgr7UW-A6IvFDAq3ASznH2MQcrnJeNb9cZbyJWWRi0CcbOHFGroOEa-oHf_DI7ZsVtMNvZIv7Lj_tT4ckw1EKzX6G_4N_N6cK9EDsjtGBImVMPTWj7OFJxi1/s320/116581944_10157305387067665_7973290225519175994_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">Van #1 - awake and traveling<br /><br /></font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYs8aeetIriogQnCKPlt-r4BzmTZCEjddLnPcqBoQY9yyLrWVY70tvoyKgY4sDXKf4E-efYoJwsiKIC0JpM4bRKGnwdOYLdlr38Nmxcsq-5HVbyCHCywCs3QWYN5AUsmUDmUqTHSYCLPp/s960/116583169_10157305387282665_4335704297096231340_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYs8aeetIriogQnCKPlt-r4BzmTZCEjddLnPcqBoQY9yyLrWVY70tvoyKgY4sDXKf4E-efYoJwsiKIC0JpM4bRKGnwdOYLdlr38Nmxcsq-5HVbyCHCywCs3QWYN5AUsmUDmUqTHSYCLPp/s320/116583169_10157305387282665_4335704297096231340_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><font size="2">Chillicothe, Friday night</font></b></i></td></tr></tbody></table><div><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /></div><div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1YP9vOSnWsctmBKrRu7T1lRS59-59-v9om9oXEBuT-LxPMSLJNOl5VgJBXaJEsS0kxVIHo0QFAyfeKnf_-ubDdqXQXHA9hudzJ8qrnyqKxgTqi8_O9UtsP6h4R2wDOv1p3tSnVvw3bBi/s960/116057532_10157305387607665_1228876240235932278_n%255B1%255D.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY1YP9vOSnWsctmBKrRu7T1lRS59-59-v9om9oXEBuT-LxPMSLJNOl5VgJBXaJEsS0kxVIHo0QFAyfeKnf_-ubDdqXQXHA9hudzJ8qrnyqKxgTqi8_O9UtsP6h4R2wDOv1p3tSnVvw3bBi/s320/116057532_10157305387607665_1228876240235932278_n%255B1%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div><i><b><font size="2">Van #1, our anti-nicknames -Van #2 thinks </font></b></i></div><div><i><b><font size="2">they are funny.</font></b></i></div><div><i><b><font size="2"><br /></font></b></i></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div><i></i><b></b><font size="2"></font><br /></div></a></div><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><i></i></b></u></div></div>Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-73012689588004862942020-04-24T13:42:00.000-04:002020-04-24T13:42:01.809-04:00Not Muh-muh-muh-my Corona<br />
Well this has been a good swift kick in the reality jewels, hasn't it? Starting in mid-March, sports of any and all kinds ceased to exist, employment and jobs were either halted or moved to sporadic hours of operation and social distancing became the trademark of 2020 - despite being only 2 1/2 months old.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin_JGC1qiu-pvm-irKUPB03n8lU-CYRVUGGZjx48jHfTxDok4IulS4dDZDGt4l9MIuboJWpBAZwXQrCBP2hpTYi6BGTQw9CJSqhcgwKGnjpuN4TB6ic1f8pxCERCWiRP1C3B9wKlXhArZ9/s1600/EU2DxHCXQAUZZQO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin_JGC1qiu-pvm-irKUPB03n8lU-CYRVUGGZjx48jHfTxDok4IulS4dDZDGt4l9MIuboJWpBAZwXQrCBP2hpTYi6BGTQw9CJSqhcgwKGnjpuN4TB6ic1f8pxCERCWiRP1C3B9wKlXhArZ9/s200/EU2DxHCXQAUZZQO.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>At Lake Katharine Nature Preserve</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
St. Patrick's Day became a virtual event, Easter was a stay-at-home celebration, many stores closed, those that could stay open instituted the six-feet of separation guideline for customers, people hoarded toilet paper and a limit was issued for how many fresh meat products one could purchase at one time. The NCAA Basketball Tournament was cancelled (as was all collegiate spring sports), the baseball season was put on hold and even the NFL Draft went the virtual route. The Coronavirus (COVID-19) changed our routines in every way.<br />
<br />
Running was still an option, though every planned race was cancelled or postponed for the foreseeable future. The second race of L's trail series was cancelled, the <a href="https://easy1350.iheart.com/content/2020-01-31-annual-kill-the-hill-returns-to-the-grounds-of-adena-mansion-gardens/"><i>Kill the Hill 10 Miler</i></a> in my hometown of Chillicothe was cancelled, the <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Columbus/CRCSpringDistanceRace"><i>Choo-Choo 9-miler</i></a> turned into a virtual race,<i> <a href="https://www.thebuckfifty.com/">The Buck Fifty</a></i> was postponed till late July, April's <i><a href="https://capitalcityhalfmarathon.com/">OhioHealth Cap City Half Marathon</a> </i>was moved to August, June's <a href="https://www.columbus10k.com/"><i>AEP Ohio Columbus 10K</i></a> was forwarded to September, the <i><a href="https://www.athensohiomarathon.com/">Athens Half Marathon</a> </i>was postponed for a year and those were just the events <i>we</i> had planned to take part in.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWhbZKiKetr3lJNLTn-JDHMCyfjK_zLVOElugud5B9jirCrJbIFwQUobJvdA-dEh6-IpBPy6iWRsGQPfo7qRiqbgWiHOsWr0hjf5Uu0uTLnH94acomLInEX9Sc2AxI35NEEryTW354Rfss/s1600/90579007_10156925853202665_6547466850052079616_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWhbZKiKetr3lJNLTn-JDHMCyfjK_zLVOElugud5B9jirCrJbIFwQUobJvdA-dEh6-IpBPy6iWRsGQPfo7qRiqbgWiHOsWr0hjf5Uu0uTLnH94acomLInEX9Sc2AxI35NEEryTW354Rfss/s200/90579007_10156925853202665_6547466850052079616_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Whiskey & Jameson</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The school L works for had her doing virtual classes at home and I went into the library a few hours a couple of times a week for general in-house duties, but for the most part was relegated to chilling out at home. It was like an extended apocalypse-like spring break. Remember those summers as a kid where the days lasted forever and time seemed to slow down because you had nowhere to go or had to be anywhere - yeah, it was like that. I'm all for nostalgia, but it began to get old rather quick.<br />
<br />
We started passing the time by preparing our garden, encouraging our basement seedlings and watching the backyard hops awaken from their winter slumber. Along the way we rediscovered our kitchen and began baking more breads and foods we would normally purchase.<br />
<br />
We paid a bit more attention to one another and our friends & family. Still distancing ourselves, our extended family kept everyone in touch using <i><a href="https://www.marcopolo.me/">Marco Polo</a> </i>- a video messaging and video hosting service
mobile app. Oh, and the cat kids - Whiskey & Jameson - were happy to have at least one human home at all times.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: left; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s1600/Final+Sport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s200/Final+Sport.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>**We back EVERY pair with </i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><a href="https://shadyrays.com/pages/official-live-hard-warranty-overview" style="color: #de7008;">FREE Replacements</a> if Lost or Broken</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>**</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: right; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s1600/DH4A7305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s200/DH4A7305.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>**Each order also secures 11 meals </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>to fight hunger through </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b><a href="http://fabackup.feedingamerica.org/optimized-homepage/?_ga=2.251139073.647855481.1504895789-1536808043.1504895789" style="color: #de7008;">Feeding America</a>**</b></i></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><b style="background-color: transparent;">We are an independent sunglasses company </b><span style="background-color: transparent;">for those who don't want to buy from a massive, faceless company that has been operating the same way for decades </span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<b><a href="http://shadyrays.com/" style="color: #de7008;">shadyrays.com</a></b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNbsHJvCu6PEDdY9xZUm6KKP-9S3bJdQYEC8SXSJwILE8DPNQUf2zMzCdAnLZtt_PwvBR0X-8P14RBq2lQzQLllhv1QwaAJGdaVNtyWmdJddo1XOL6NLwNKeG_XNS7dwCrrDZsS7vcXsf/s1600/shady+rays.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="123" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJNbsHJvCu6PEDdY9xZUm6KKP-9S3bJdQYEC8SXSJwILE8DPNQUf2zMzCdAnLZtt_PwvBR0X-8P14RBq2lQzQLllhv1QwaAJGdaVNtyWmdJddo1XOL6NLwNKeG_XNS7dwCrrDZsS7vcXsf/s1600/shady+rays.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
One of the surprising cool things taking place during this time was the ability for breweries to offer online ordering and deliver or ship their beer across the state. Since they couldn't be open for physical customers, they could still stay afloat (for however much they could) by catering to those around, and well beyond, their neighborhood. Still, though, many had to furlough way too many employees (like many businesses had to) as we awaited for the epidemic to subside and a few simply had to shut their doors - unsure if they will ever reopen.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTJFjBDE79GE8CG9pTeY0KdHaCrJqv82uIN5TIJwlR9EkewS7xGCp_nPx_u7A-l9n65ynck07EmLd07wmqLBZfwxJ8CmuUbrTS6pStTV_qGdmsnmfTYbC3plF5ZYjoWI0sUPPAw4fBPTyF/s1600/EVWRZN2WoAcXt4I.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTJFjBDE79GE8CG9pTeY0KdHaCrJqv82uIN5TIJwlR9EkewS7xGCp_nPx_u7A-l9n65ynck07EmLd07wmqLBZfwxJ8CmuUbrTS6pStTV_qGdmsnmfTYbC3plF5ZYjoWI0sUPPAw4fBPTyF/s200/EVWRZN2WoAcXt4I.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Along the Kokosing Gap Trail </b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To help pass the time, L and I have taken a few day trips for running and exploring. These included nearby <i><a href="https://www.preservationparks.com/parks/emily-traphagen/">Emily Traphagen Park,</a> <a href="https://naturepreserves.ohiodnr.gov/lakekatharine">Lake Katharine Nature Preserve</a> </i>near where I grew up in Jackson, Ohio and a visit to the <i><a href="https://www.ohiobikeways.net/kokosing.htm">Kokosing Gap Trail</a> </i>to run the portion from Howard to Gambier and back.<br />
<br />
All in all we are handling this by not freaking out and avoiding the doom & gloom that seems to be seeping from the crevices occupied by the same folks who wigged out when <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Year_2000_problem"><i>Y2K</i></a> was supposed to be a thing. This, though, <i>IS A THING, </i>so be smart and try to relax.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Yes, this is a seriously silly time for all of us and shouldn't be taken lightly, but rather in stride as best we can. They say good things come to those who wait, so I guess that means better times will evolve as we try to remember how things were before all of this craziness. Sure, there will be items that stick with us - but they will eventually become interesting speed bumps of our past and stories our kids & grandkids will get to hear.<br />
<br />
For now though, we need to support one another and - as best we can - keep our heads above the brine....</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><u><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ywIgQBnBndI">The Family Crest - "Beneath the Brine"</a></u></b><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Oh, young love of mine<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>She sleeps beneath the brine<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>And oh the sound, the tick<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>The weighty click of her heart against my spine<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Now the dark is nigh<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>And she lays here at my side<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>But like a steady squall<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Her arms they fall and her legs, they grasp me tight<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Oh, young love, young dear<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Why have you taken me in your fall?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>All of my love, all of my life<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Given to you, sacrificed<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Oh my waking world<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>I leave you for a girl<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Cast away into this blight<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Swimming blindly through the night<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Now my heart is bound<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Like a plague upon this sound<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>And oh, it slips away, such soft decay<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Then it grows<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Oh, young love, young dear<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Why have you taken me from the fall?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>All of my love, and all of my life<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Given to you, sacrificed<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Stay clear of the wreckage<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>She goes down, down, down<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>And she burns like the sun<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>And it all falls away<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Take your time and I'll take mine here today<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>But it cuts like a knife<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>And we're bound here as the night, it breaks away<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>And it all goes down<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Oh, the sun!<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Oh, young love, young dear<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Why have you shaken me from the fall?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>All of my life, all of my days<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Given to you, cast away<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Here's to the war<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Here's to the night<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>All of my love, sacrificed<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Soft and kind<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Cold as ice<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Hold yourself beneath the brine<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Smooth as wine<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Black as night<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Hold yourself beneath the brine<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><u>Photos</u></b></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyg5DDdKpvbcDkUkF9HQCLhPpnM2RHvQTcxWRjtvNjJM4Cc-mn1CxDNViRBFuwVAOBiuu0eVALk4JQHeve4F9KYeVPABDp4S2lrIAd9EedD6CGTacDkq6fQ7ct_aKbuT1lRG9n_qN117Yy/s1600/90621630_10156925853007665_2222147561337126912_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyg5DDdKpvbcDkUkF9HQCLhPpnM2RHvQTcxWRjtvNjJM4Cc-mn1CxDNViRBFuwVAOBiuu0eVALk4JQHeve4F9KYeVPABDp4S2lrIAd9EedD6CGTacDkq6fQ7ct_aKbuT1lRG9n_qN117Yy/s320/90621630_10156925853007665_2222147561337126912_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Jameson, waiting for something to fall<br />from the dinner table.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoRufp3HJe-8JMTzk1tIB5umQ16imeKsDZpnBbWmT6PjTp-VrRBUdzsq7IDyC9IV_hxtIY0_6BrYQuZzap5YzoPrh40moaIOLfgUb6_lyVgAnWAvxr9BTx925ZukxrUgDj2iOWkE6dxHk/s1600/90775755_10156925853072665_1988394576137682944_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoRufp3HJe-8JMTzk1tIB5umQ16imeKsDZpnBbWmT6PjTp-VrRBUdzsq7IDyC9IV_hxtIY0_6BrYQuZzap5YzoPrh40moaIOLfgUb6_lyVgAnWAvxr9BTx925ZukxrUgDj2iOWkE6dxHk/s320/90775755_10156925853072665_1988394576137682944_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Whiskey & Jameson, window shopping for<br />squirrels and birds.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpP12yRkADZGACNEoFPGIMUTtoZw0y_kJuQbtGdsX_YjFVgOszkpyt4b8tljVsjkfNLege-hKrjWsbzwFJknsuPLqDf43pktzA6xCfO9_bpRESqlBISvHIj-_r0H9ucOIHH8oh5C0Lj9l/s1600/91210989_10156942960632665_5905204815067086848_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpP12yRkADZGACNEoFPGIMUTtoZw0y_kJuQbtGdsX_YjFVgOszkpyt4b8tljVsjkfNLege-hKrjWsbzwFJknsuPLqDf43pktzA6xCfO9_bpRESqlBISvHIj-_r0H9ucOIHH8oh5C0Lj9l/s320/91210989_10156942960632665_5905204815067086848_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Along the floodwall in Chillicothe, part of the <br />Kill the Hill 10 Miler route that wasn't</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4f9C9rgtVLnxPgPVyTk9-8JFOrjVfkE-hfWNrsBlTlQ2pxg7C0JFSoZ6Jd5d5mKxlnIG6HclKzi004CeMeAhHzwgqk7_DyzGpRVKLaqYIB5EaX_ybNG9QTjnHyOQmmW6mGqMoqrGSGqj/s1600/91980622_10156967387597665_7019583145720676352_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4f9C9rgtVLnxPgPVyTk9-8JFOrjVfkE-hfWNrsBlTlQ2pxg7C0JFSoZ6Jd5d5mKxlnIG6HclKzi004CeMeAhHzwgqk7_DyzGpRVKLaqYIB5EaX_ybNG9QTjnHyOQmmW6mGqMoqrGSGqj/s320/91980622_10156967387597665_7019583145720676352_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Old narrow Gauge rail remnants at<br />Lake Katharine</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMVLxH0hl8J5JsRlCYi1aB9FlC4RyXng6Crq0RFEnk_DQc_OqVOaMaxtiK9rgci-mtL-y0-zMONHpAw2Xpf6MV5BoQlT7Qzan5tacHOq8pjOx7XQaihxP1f3c9CS8TzwZnKJU6YJdJNJvN/s1600/91983156_10156967387682665_8554040914652168192_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMVLxH0hl8J5JsRlCYi1aB9FlC4RyXng6Crq0RFEnk_DQc_OqVOaMaxtiK9rgci-mtL-y0-zMONHpAw2Xpf6MV5BoQlT7Qzan5tacHOq8pjOx7XQaihxP1f3c9CS8TzwZnKJU6YJdJNJvN/s320/91983156_10156967387682665_8554040914652168192_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Old narrow gauge rail remnants at<br />Lake Katharine</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9eKrYwwYpIiv34mj3esfu0l72Z7qiCn-Ia6zprNd5vIm4mkj7bcdk1J6ptdwh0VVKYNHA4VbqpITMHsBTHHDAIgOobdDBIOvPnzrTYzWFwtame70-qPZnbSQOt4IZ-QrAmw7eWSHppnFU/s1600/92024007_10156967387287665_6889591184503603200_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9eKrYwwYpIiv34mj3esfu0l72Z7qiCn-Ia6zprNd5vIm4mkj7bcdk1J6ptdwh0VVKYNHA4VbqpITMHsBTHHDAIgOobdDBIOvPnzrTYzWFwtame70-qPZnbSQOt4IZ-QrAmw7eWSHppnFU/s320/92024007_10156967387287665_6889591184503603200_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>T-Rex rock at Lake Katharine</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQLcq7FKZHVXZkBRSYQhhRcMnOg_SMy0Uz45TIiIjQfeJ5S2ci0V6itmh3fiUSZq0tSHzJfMItzmLwt7oowklN-JXgNeRx6RmJC8jA3v2pfeLr2Yh9XzGyQk8gC8nWf56NJWvGuy-EPCB/s1600/92161497_10156967386862665_6871854593068761088_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQLcq7FKZHVXZkBRSYQhhRcMnOg_SMy0Uz45TIiIjQfeJ5S2ci0V6itmh3fiUSZq0tSHzJfMItzmLwt7oowklN-JXgNeRx6RmJC8jA3v2pfeLr2Yh9XzGyQk8gC8nWf56NJWvGuy-EPCB/s320/92161497_10156967386862665_6871854593068761088_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>L, again, at Lake Katharine</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfIze-XoekGjp6-1So55fqCj5id7CCxcChkcBs051nwewaN_Ho9hAX5lZcLTnM1SZiE18HzDppHhtvuuQgKIU6UHdS1MJm2QpSkyuLuc9GAoy3aMmxBqDWoSdw8BFUqfcj99_mVC1bXCG/s1600/92212732_10156967387237665_5321091921395843072_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfIze-XoekGjp6-1So55fqCj5id7CCxcChkcBs051nwewaN_Ho9hAX5lZcLTnM1SZiE18HzDppHhtvuuQgKIU6UHdS1MJm2QpSkyuLuc9GAoy3aMmxBqDWoSdw8BFUqfcj99_mVC1bXCG/s320/92212732_10156967387237665_5321091921395843072_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>L at Lake Katharine</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCYN1J9iVYltPRTKiEH3laFR9gHE5nuhnLBS4I1ALOC8V-Xa7hKc7DsKQ2u0TrazNI_2JJBNi8xtfgrML6GwEVnUt2xCyYi4WLoYF-7FOrZbYcq0W4BoB_4Z20DNyaIFA2COmp7H0H3buD/s1600/EUtBa6TXQAEaFD2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCYN1J9iVYltPRTKiEH3laFR9gHE5nuhnLBS4I1ALOC8V-Xa7hKc7DsKQ2u0TrazNI_2JJBNi8xtfgrML6GwEVnUt2xCyYi4WLoYF-7FOrZbYcq0W4BoB_4Z20DNyaIFA2COmp7H0H3buD/s320/EUtBa6TXQAEaFD2.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Beer delivery from <a href="https://listermannbrewing.com/">Listermann Brewing Company</a></b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP-7QRWS7Vy-zjXPrxlRI6RCh_fXG0KIAmvz7qdj_c1a-mwswh_4E8XW8bvT34-ZHB7Zyb791XjQgZgJ4rlRk0E1nDxx1laT6WTUaepKzZwQ0rXbg44vhAo6evz5CMoi0j99h3fvk-JGKC/s1600/EUyMpHCWAAwfn3G.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP-7QRWS7Vy-zjXPrxlRI6RCh_fXG0KIAmvz7qdj_c1a-mwswh_4E8XW8bvT34-ZHB7Zyb791XjQgZgJ4rlRk0E1nDxx1laT6WTUaepKzZwQ0rXbg44vhAo6evz5CMoi0j99h3fvk-JGKC/s320/EUyMpHCWAAwfn3G.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>A pit stop while visiting Lake Katharine,<br /><a href="https://sixthsensebrewing.co/">Sixth Sense Brewing.</a></b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxkdYSXMV86k8pqNVWm9RuYa0Y__fibjqXfwMygyfXX8zYkgsl5ceCCZS6vCixcJy5KKnLRiDQ81FSVDBvtzYhtlmFjrpGzfgnLlQyR9sLjpfTcQAwE5aVIlIXgjFBOj0cRPfrJ-JNjP0N/s1600/EV_pjBdXkAI0Ab3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxkdYSXMV86k8pqNVWm9RuYa0Y__fibjqXfwMygyfXX8zYkgsl5ceCCZS6vCixcJy5KKnLRiDQ81FSVDBvtzYhtlmFjrpGzfgnLlQyR9sLjpfTcQAwE5aVIlIXgjFBOj0cRPfrJ-JNjP0N/s320/EV_pjBdXkAI0Ab3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>My backyard hops</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWe8bTtDlV1UJnR2SXU41uOtcjuBw4aWUyIf3xYIRvm7C6uWKDJEubzgz-__h51752B8UMkJyw_CpD-hIt0OZPmhyphenhyphenzAwe_HtzKmfwLOWP_OjZynUHxpLWe3NfvT2eYp_3QT0Av5wZfOuiL/s1600/EVvGTAWWkAUFlkV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1497" data-original-width="1600" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWe8bTtDlV1UJnR2SXU41uOtcjuBw4aWUyIf3xYIRvm7C6uWKDJEubzgz-__h51752B8UMkJyw_CpD-hIt0OZPmhyphenhyphenzAwe_HtzKmfwLOWP_OjZynUHxpLWe3NfvT2eYp_3QT0Av5wZfOuiL/s320/EVvGTAWWkAUFlkV.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Beer delivery from <a href="https://www.artifactbeer.com/">Urban Artifact</a></b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbCM0LcjfqWZUpbJ53As1Qy0IQmPHnQdXiaZrDUJ-qqgvAnD3JnEygpNQaNLlCXbI7NaYBouUh04iLyq8AmxZQv7C-7j_3GK9bTXAsqOjcVEzZ3mrAtbmcyqEwNeFjkU6-R-hyDQ5hQaLs/s1600/thumbnail_20200411_162328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbCM0LcjfqWZUpbJ53As1Qy0IQmPHnQdXiaZrDUJ-qqgvAnD3JnEygpNQaNLlCXbI7NaYBouUh04iLyq8AmxZQv7C-7j_3GK9bTXAsqOjcVEzZ3mrAtbmcyqEwNeFjkU6-R-hyDQ5hQaLs/s320/thumbnail_20200411_162328.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Kokosing Gap Trail in Howard, Ohio</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzXlv0bcXgR5iuRq5EH8DKJ04ZHQZo4iLel61eGVlYo8uuYiyxqrwRUFo2WGiWbvvnvyyw-amA6CigfOGiKew' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b>No the rocks aren't moving, it's the water flow reflection.<br />Lake Katharine Nature Preserve.</b></i></div>
<br /></div>
Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-17362537563206032902020-03-10T12:55:00.000-04:002020-03-10T12:55:14.820-04:00The Governator Gets Totally RecalledWho would have thought that a worldwide viral outbreak would be what put Arnold Schwarzenegger - the<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px;"> </span></span>actor, filmmaker, businessman, author, and former
professional bodybuilder and politician - in his place. This month - due escalating fears over the spread of the<i> <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html">Coronavirus disease (COVID-19</a>)</i> - the <i><a href="https://www.arnoldsportsfestival.com/">2020 Arnold Sports Festival</a> </i>here in Central Ohio <i>(named in honor of the aforementioned icon) </i>would cancel it's ever popular expo and go without spectators (except for parents and guardians of the youth competitors).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7hWER6vk4UIC-vWus2StOODdPiRA2Y0OknOTIJzVJq8XmftC5gycKOJot8KBtSpvp5NBDHFE9UKCq0D2cacoW7l1n0dClCQpEt9UUy2LXh4ZzPBqEbzSZq2Sbi4-PTaAsZixZFdnWHPR/s1600/asf-logo-2020.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="465" data-original-width="800" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7hWER6vk4UIC-vWus2StOODdPiRA2Y0OknOTIJzVJq8XmftC5gycKOJot8KBtSpvp5NBDHFE9UKCq0D2cacoW7l1n0dClCQpEt9UUy2LXh4ZzPBqEbzSZq2Sbi4-PTaAsZixZFdnWHPR/s320/asf-logo-2020.png" width="320" /></a></div>
This was a major blow to an event that attracts 200,000 athletes and visitors from 80 countries annually. There has been some major debate as to whether these steps were necessary for the 31 year-old event and it may have been a bit of an overreaction, but my opinion means jack squat. I can't imagine being one of the thousands of athletes diverted upon arriving at <a href="https://flycolumbus.com/"><i>John Glenn International Airport</i> </a>and forced to go through mandatory Coronavirus testing.<br />
<br />
It does make it weird to be around Columbus in mid-March and not see an overwhelming hoard of folks conglomerating at the <i><a href="https://columbusconventions.com/">Greater Columbus Convention Center.</a> </i>The area businesses which typically make a good portion of their yearly income on the event will also suffer a bit, but I digress - it is better to be safe than sorry - I guess. Jokingly, I thought the helter-skelter weather would kill whatever bug that may be going around as it will be nearly 60 one day - then 30 and snow the next as spring struggles to fully awaken from months of hibernation.<br />
<br />
Anyway, the <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Columbus/Arnold5K"><i>Arnold 5k</i></a> is part of the festival week and it - luckily - made it through the outbreak checklist unscathed and would continue on Sunday. It would, though, follow a different route than in previous years. Still gunning for that sub 18:00 5k, maybe a change of scenery would be of assistance. And L, training for her first half marathon (the <i><a href="https://www.athensohiomarathon.com/">Athens Ohio Half Marathon</a>)</i> in April, would take part in the<a href="https://raceroster.com/series/2020/28164/der-wolfsrudel-lauf-trail-series"> <i>Der Wolfsrudel Lauf Trail Series</i></a> taking place in nearby <i><a href="http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/delaware">Delaware State Park</a> </i>on Saturday, then again in April at nearby <i><a href="http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/alumcreek">Alum Creek State Park</a>.</i><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: left; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s1600/Final+Sport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s200/Final+Sport.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>**We back EVERY pair with </i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><a href="https://shadyrays.com/pages/official-live-hard-warranty-overview" style="color: #de7008;">FREE Replacements</a> if Lost or Broken</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>**</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: right; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s1600/DH4A7305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s200/DH4A7305.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>**Each order also secures 11 meals </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>to fight hunger through </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b><a href="http://fabackup.feedingamerica.org/optimized-homepage/?_ga=2.251139073.647855481.1504895789-1536808043.1504895789" style="color: #de7008;">Feeding America</a>**</b></i><o:p></o:p><br />
<div>
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><b style="background-color: transparent;">We are an independent sunglasses company </b><span style="background-color: transparent;">for those who don't want to buy from a massive, faceless company that has been operating the same way for decades </span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<b><a href="http://shadyrays.com/" style="color: #de7008;">shadyrays.com</a></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgULufrxi8cb64h2LpgqalZGHLtm8Pv1tqrlNbk1erFOe5mFfKC3gXRMMgn4AQVrh7oOg7CqY4CkjDVi_3XkiFnzDckO_9DdlwaJpka7n27ZC60H7XL7etNt0UobUG00ntg_ZjdpMjIudFD/s1600/shady+rays.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="123" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgULufrxi8cb64h2LpgqalZGHLtm8Pv1tqrlNbk1erFOe5mFfKC3gXRMMgn4AQVrh7oOg7CqY4CkjDVi_3XkiFnzDckO_9DdlwaJpka7n27ZC60H7XL7etNt0UobUG00ntg_ZjdpMjIudFD/s1600/shady+rays.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
The Arnold 5k starts and begins at the Greater Columbus Convention Center and in the past it followed a course that when north into some residential areas before returning. This year would be just the opposite as we would head south through downtown and the return would follow the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scioto_River"><i>Scioto River</i></a> and into the <a href="https://www.arenadistrict.com/"><i>Arena District </i></a>before making it back to where we started - a nearly identical route as the <a href="https://the5thline5k.com/"><i>5th Line 5k</i></a> back in January. I took 15th in this event last year, finishing in 18:13.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDocHkJi9-S-Avasjrt2-8513wToCNbeMnQSahVzD_nyO94xJS13xNXvS1LjRM5wUXFNlyz4PGAn7B-IBkGyLmV3wRqrG35gJHzxcS4PsLyrXlXmtXTk5izlKDJtylKSM06BL_fScq1ix/s1600/race.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="521" data-original-width="396" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzDocHkJi9-S-Avasjrt2-8513wToCNbeMnQSahVzD_nyO94xJS13xNXvS1LjRM5wUXFNlyz4PGAn7B-IBkGyLmV3wRqrG35gJHzxcS4PsLyrXlXmtXTk5izlKDJtylKSM06BL_fScq1ix/s320/race.jpg" width="243" /></a></div>
With full sun and a slight breeze, the 36 degree temperature was comfortable. Loitering around the starting area, this dude walks over, <i>"You are Craig, right?"</i>. <i>"I am",</i> I reply. He, Brian, goes on to say he was the one I narrowly beat in January as I found the last of the energy I had remaining to kick it up a notch in the last 100 meters. An injury last May had put him out for a while and he had just started running again in December. With that I figured he would make sure to finish ahead of me on this day.<br />
<br />
At the gun a group took off like they were shot out of a cannon and I was in no mood to attempt to keep even a portion of that pace. I stayed within myself and hung behind a couple of others who looked like they may know what they were doing. The going was relatively easy, but we did have a nice head wind as we traveled down the long southbound straight stretch on Front Street.<br />
<br />
Nearing mile one the couple of guys just ahead are falling back a bit, but then suddenly Brian drifts by and I'm at 5:44. I pass the two guys directly in front who apparently went out a bit too fast and attempt to have Brian pull me along, but he seems to get a little further ahead every so often. We turn to go back north and I notice Brian is asking race security for confirmation on the race route as we make a couple of turns - this, for the time being, is keeping him from getting further way. He is soon out of reach and the wind is at our backs.<br />
<br />
At mile two (5:50) all is silent until I pass under a pedestrian bridge and glance to see L throwing out <br />
some encouragement as the incline battle begins. Turning right onto Spring Street and I hear distance footsteps. Moments later I'm passed by a dude who is reeling in the distant Brian at the same spot where I was holding Brian off about six weeks ago.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7uLsspatRtNWxsJKHD112SGb87dVn5oSNKxA89RBCKVEKvPVsefRsENOifMruzc4sIBOsocB7ASZfYUzJ2CBf9FLU3dMvZmPzKVkp_JMGHKwo8iCjjFknvZ3e8UXVshFISWkJhWr7E0B/s1600/89635352_10156879213542665_7180666340833755136_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7uLsspatRtNWxsJKHD112SGb87dVn5oSNKxA89RBCKVEKvPVsefRsENOifMruzc4sIBOsocB7ASZfYUzJ2CBf9FLU3dMvZmPzKVkp_JMGHKwo8iCjjFknvZ3e8UXVshFISWkJhWr7E0B/s200/89635352_10156879213542665_7180666340833755136_n.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Mile two, all alone</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As if my legs are made of concrete, I'm at a good pace but cannot find an extra gear. Drifting by Nationwide Arena, I push as much as I can up the hill along the boulevard. With a quarter mile to go, the dude is in Brian's shadow and the two begin the race to the finish. I'm too far back see them finish and stride as best I can in hopes of a satisfying finishing time. I stop my watch as it all comes to an end and see 17:22, but a course length of 2.9. I have finished 6th and Brian held off that dude by less than a second to finish fourth at about 25 seconds ahead of me.<br />
<br />
Conversing with other finishers, we find Brian's watch indicates a full 3.1 mile course. Though, the rest of us are seeing length of three miles or less. Whether it was short or not, I did at least keep a more consistent pace than I have in the past. Before heading home L & I swung by <i><a href="https://www.katalinas.com/?fbclid=IwAR1njtTbjCkWnrxGowf2WFmnNL9OvW1YHt2D5jmgfdfhoSWJjDHUUm_NMo8">Katalina's</a> </i>for breakfast. The rest of the day was spent preparing the garden for near future planting followed by lighting the fire pit for the the first time in 2020.<br />
<br />
Oh, and as for L in the <i><a href="https://raceroster.com/series/2020/28164/der-wolfsrudel-lauf-trail-series">Der Wolfsrudel Lauf Trail Series</a> </i>12k the day before she placed twelfth overall on the <i><a href="https://results.raceroster.com/results/gwq9ws2czcfrh3yq?sub_event_option=structured_24363&query_string=&gender_code=&per_page=500&division=&page=1">river of mud course in 1:14:09</a></i>. It may not have been the most ideal race, but was a great way to prepare for her first half marathon coming up next month. Her shoes sat on the patio to bake in the rest of the weekend sun in order to more easily remove them from their mud cocoon.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPSRR5S6YhjJJsM8qWZDwBD1YdO3OOeJCRfyQ26d6Lg-7S7fyrcZ-Rl1-Dxcnvk4IKib_etL1h59IPrRTgVMlalryxrMIKsCVTR2xMBtGtatOg_Hd7v7eMdln7SzbV6z-hnpsjnkcPrJqX/s1600/88135263_10156876396782665_4350635226116915200_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPSRR5S6YhjJJsM8qWZDwBD1YdO3OOeJCRfyQ26d6Lg-7S7fyrcZ-Rl1-Dxcnvk4IKib_etL1h59IPrRTgVMlalryxrMIKsCVTR2xMBtGtatOg_Hd7v7eMdln7SzbV6z-hnpsjnkcPrJqX/s320/88135263_10156876396782665_4350635226116915200_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>The one portion of the course not totally mud.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The race was run relatively well, though the water stop near the start/finish could have used a human or two. As L made her way through for the first loop she grabbed one of the cups set up next to the giant orange jug of liquid refreshment. Attempting to take a swig, she was instead pelted in the face by a handful of trail mix. Disgusted that the displayed cups held no liquid at all, she simply tossed it behind her and mumble a curse word or two as she continued for lap number two.<br />
<br />
I, too, was confused as to why one would set out cups next to a refreshment jug only to fill them with a snack? This isn't preschool, get the competitors some damn water! She did survive, but many folks were disappointed to find they had to stop and fill up their own cup for liquid refreshment while race officials danced around yelling encouragement through a megaphone while dressed in hippo costumes and blaring horribly recorded tunes by a random cover band. Overall, though, it was a good event, but could have been much better and L didn't let it phase her - she did extremely well.<br />
<br />
With that said, we have started scheduling races around vacations and vice versa for the better part of the year. Some of those have her being the spectator as I run, others have me playing the part as observer while she grinds it out and some have the both of us running ourselves silly. There are those folk who find this to be weird, but for us...it is simply a daily routine...<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Xv1JByUZ9E">Disq - Daily Routine</a><o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>this is my
daily routine<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>spend my
hours on computer screen<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>I lay around
for a while<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>get feeling
like I’m supposed to be<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>I love the
daily routine<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>take care of
my basic needs<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>I have a
daily routine<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>I thought it
looked better inside a dream<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>come on and
hit me in the head real hard<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>I haven’t
hurt myself quite enough so far<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>save me I
don’t wanna think<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>crunch
crunch I’m feeling pink<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>this is my
daily routine<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>I wonder
what it’s like to be feeling clean<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>guess I
should probably know<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>it’s
something I’ve already seen<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>come on and
listen to me cry for help<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>‘cause
sometimes I feel like I wanna kill myself<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>if I took a
trip back in time<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>would the
days still seem to feel so unkind<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>I’m in
prison but I think this place was built by me<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>come on and
show me how I’m supposed to live like I’m supposed to be<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>I see the
people who spend their lives in a worthwhile shine</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>I’m laying
down spending my life on wasting time</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i><b><u>Photos</u></b></i><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQT3hablgdLGr12EPglN44zmgMzNXWz_rwa-bVDxpEX4nmCNsUqKE1TKYMfJSWHsy5fMu6o7henxH66Mx_HGLIBzr2M_Kb2ZIYYGWhRfrlv0sTDjinsnUh234cEdj64YSAXaZ14gzoMam-/s1600/84693813_10156876397192665_7480214217803431936_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQT3hablgdLGr12EPglN44zmgMzNXWz_rwa-bVDxpEX4nmCNsUqKE1TKYMfJSWHsy5fMu6o7henxH66Mx_HGLIBzr2M_Kb2ZIYYGWhRfrlv0sTDjinsnUh234cEdj64YSAXaZ14gzoMam-/s320/84693813_10156876397192665_7480214217803431936_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>L, celebrating a muddy finish!</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBEdA3M5A1UsJd0_2rmhjAhkuqCAQG00Mz9z0UiJvaAe2FSh2D3cfdJGcuennKRygNBJg5lwO9tJd1PHd5NXlWhiq6ze5eECq3vqJUuz7KLFTA3lbJ_U0odCTxWK61ujCzxkvZdLCTuwlV/s1600/87727707_10156876397277665_4991677778152652800_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBEdA3M5A1UsJd0_2rmhjAhkuqCAQG00Mz9z0UiJvaAe2FSh2D3cfdJGcuennKRygNBJg5lwO9tJd1PHd5NXlWhiq6ze5eECq3vqJUuz7KLFTA3lbJ_U0odCTxWK61ujCzxkvZdLCTuwlV/s320/87727707_10156876397277665_4991677778152652800_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b><i>L's aftermath</i></b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Ljnx0DjX_MqzoSPZ2z5PwqojzSCtyneUAXwqoi-GOiNjRstDtgE2Yai6CIubRsVwzUHGMD3Ub1SUlqrv45RRXgJW77QrKJIZVTCH3K-RRgYGxH-F025Mds7r1B5en9kcyPD8NwB3bzaq/s1600/87756881_10156876396897665_8919948248253202432_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Ljnx0DjX_MqzoSPZ2z5PwqojzSCtyneUAXwqoi-GOiNjRstDtgE2Yai6CIubRsVwzUHGMD3Ub1SUlqrv45RRXgJW77QrKJIZVTCH3K-RRgYGxH-F025Mds7r1B5en9kcyPD8NwB3bzaq/s320/87756881_10156876396897665_8919948248253202432_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>The exact moment L throw's the trail mix <br />masquerading as water.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIJfLZD90-HTk5EaDEZnYvnKTBPBZNx6Hou7GHJKwMoMVuwIevKbBmgN27ZNSHTsKmZ_x9t10rhBZpjxxGqtFNcrrbJfFrgavK9f9o1roDuFv4sHQQF3Js9O7Lsu9T7mx0hKpjD9QLA4W/s1600/89394974_10156879213357665_7625421714846908416_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXIJfLZD90-HTk5EaDEZnYvnKTBPBZNx6Hou7GHJKwMoMVuwIevKbBmgN27ZNSHTsKmZ_x9t10rhBZpjxxGqtFNcrrbJfFrgavK9f9o1roDuFv4sHQQF3Js9O7Lsu9T7mx0hKpjD9QLA4W/s320/89394974_10156879213357665_7625421714846908416_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Finishing</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhvI3KQActWETWGR320LOkBvu6dGZqSnAxRH_DMak4ZRWlMohFpN8oImh3Z4rWpxbuZJzvDts_oVRRTosEZAJi4NGYZlGR-hm_FlCm8glAiIm1TZF44mznTbo1JSt-NsN64x6rcE5BDqEH/s1600/89487902_10156879213472665_4608141296018653184_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhvI3KQActWETWGR320LOkBvu6dGZqSnAxRH_DMak4ZRWlMohFpN8oImh3Z4rWpxbuZJzvDts_oVRRTosEZAJi4NGYZlGR-hm_FlCm8glAiIm1TZF44mznTbo1JSt-NsN64x6rcE5BDqEH/s320/89487902_10156879213472665_4608141296018653184_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Brian in the white on the left, I'm in the middle</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfILvsvOy1rMLhUO1ocRooZCOMw3ABkg8ACWpVZPmGiJ5z8v2GU8ulTstYhAPz7g2apbUWyhurjUDoteQQzCf6pPE1hPGMkqKoZux5DayZ3X9QfYMd3bZgNeXsL2P2mkBrxkhEXMkILsq/s1600/89599253_10156879212267665_3185412290929229824_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcfILvsvOy1rMLhUO1ocRooZCOMw3ABkg8ACWpVZPmGiJ5z8v2GU8ulTstYhAPz7g2apbUWyhurjUDoteQQzCf6pPE1hPGMkqKoZux5DayZ3X9QfYMd3bZgNeXsL2P2mkBrxkhEXMkILsq/s320/89599253_10156879212267665_3185412290929229824_o.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Can't complain.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTGVflY9UNinDnx6dUJPBavh5HiWiwENTWc0whbCllv9bNBb2opqC2rmuyPWGpQUPPYF2hIYrrtDAha34fyFQJ0Z3tGyQBdHoP0XZtEXKI2H7LLr8eL55LzFYCBzPk4olkaGzvpNeu2Fs/s1600/87596836_10156879673762665_3046480192076775424_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTGVflY9UNinDnx6dUJPBavh5HiWiwENTWc0whbCllv9bNBb2opqC2rmuyPWGpQUPPYF2hIYrrtDAha34fyFQJ0Z3tGyQBdHoP0XZtEXKI2H7LLr8eL55LzFYCBzPk4olkaGzvpNeu2Fs/s320/87596836_10156879673762665_3046480192076775424_o.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Sunday afternoon's garden preparation</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><b><u><br /></u></b></i>
<i><b><u><br /></u></b></i>
<i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-4348828069706720072020-02-04T15:30:00.002-05:002020-02-04T15:30:50.985-05:00The 31 (+1) Flavors of WinterRunning in the cold isn't so bad once you get out there, its having the wherewithal to overcome the urge to sit in the warmth of your home and hibernate through spring. I have never really had a problem with tackling the ice and snow, but doing it everyday isn't something I would enjoy.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnlialmT0eaZp4GUZauRLB2GLu3rT7okAdSKpp1JhVBD-ZG17K1yEOahM4c0K7cqXc-j_c_ZmieIVuefFD_cv8dwnmPkc6G-xhsm7iSxc_IChMC0FZuwACF4QZGSkKxuFSu3-hsYV4IPS/s1600/INSPIRE_COLUMBUS_1024x1024.webp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="440" data-original-width="1024" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqnlialmT0eaZp4GUZauRLB2GLu3rT7okAdSKpp1JhVBD-ZG17K1yEOahM4c0K7cqXc-j_c_ZmieIVuefFD_cv8dwnmPkc6G-xhsm7iSxc_IChMC0FZuwACF4QZGSkKxuFSu3-hsYV4IPS/s320/INSPIRE_COLUMBUS_1024x1024.webp" width="320" /></a>With that said, L and I decided to take part in<i> <a href="https://www.columbusrunning.com/pages/inspirecolumbus">Columbus Running Company's Inspire Columbus Winter Challenge.</a> </i>According to the program, <i>Inspire Columbus is our January training challenge, a
program meant to inject some wintry fun into your miles during one of the
toughest training months. Once registered, challenge yourself to RUN OR WALK OUTDOORS EVERY DAY IN JANUARY. </i>So despite the darkness, cold, ice, snow, wind or plague - we would have to run outside all 31 days of January. A cool, long sleeve technical shirt and the opportunity to win prizes were our incentives.<br />
<br />
This didn't seem too daunting, then again we do enjoy days off each week. Nevertheless, we were ready for the 4 1/2 week gauntlet. My strategy was to pepper a fast two mile run in between every two days of four or more miles. The thinking was that a pending short run would leave a sort of "silver lining" during those days of long, cold & wet workouts.<br />
<br />
About two weeks in and we started to feel the effects. Not having a day off every two or three days began putting a bit of a strain on the body. For me, it was mostly in the lumbar area of my back. It wasn't painful, but would get uncomfortable as my 44-year old muscles threatened to set themselves on fire. The challenge left both us more tired then we are used to being, but not so much that it was too taxing. When it was time to relax, we took full advantage.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, L had to bow out and take a break on day 16. Working with preschoolers, she came home with what seemed to be a touch of the flu - courtesy of the little ones from her Montessori school place of employment. She was disappointed, but not so much that not running for a day or two wouldn't make her smile. I, though, continued despite the visions of sugar plums dancing around a non-running day.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKj1C-DwIPMvva0IC0rk6ZaD2qJBD4KYeM1SZmMeRpdYoAb0J2oKfIn86Z2Brxzd6E_b68xTJfkt19e8_Vf8DNROqMOohu_NbC_Uxl-JN5xajFMN-lHXSu0m8EjFjAh0WUG_HrD_XIaIJE/s1600/5th-line-5k-logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="156" data-original-width="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKj1C-DwIPMvva0IC0rk6ZaD2qJBD4KYeM1SZmMeRpdYoAb0J2oKfIn86Z2Brxzd6E_b68xTJfkt19e8_Vf8DNROqMOohu_NbC_Uxl-JN5xajFMN-lHXSu0m8EjFjAh0WUG_HrD_XIaIJE/s1600/5th-line-5k-logo.png" /></a>Day 18 was the first real test as I had to work on this Saturday and immediately thereafter would be headed for the <i><a href="http://columbusbeerfest.com/">Columbus Winter Beerfest</a>. </i>So I needed to muster all I had to drag my reluctant body out for a pre-dawn jaunt. It didn't help that a winter weather advisory the night before came to fruition that morning. A wave of wind and freezing rain left everything in an ice cast and continued the rest of the day. This warranted the first use of the <i><a href="https://yaktrax.implus.com/">Yaktrak</a> </i>of the year and a decent two mile effort through slush and kamikaze ice pellets under the cover of darkness was the result.<br />
<br />
Upon returning and sitting on the floor, leaning up against the sofa in damp clothes and sleet attached to my face with a giant, hot cup of coffee, I repeat to myself,<i>"Thirteen more days, just thirteen more days."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Hoping to break up the monotony, I decided to throw in a 5k event which was to take place on day 25 of the winter challenge.<i> <a href="https://the5thline5k.com/">The 5th Line 5K</a></i> would be a way to get a run in with some enthusiasm without it feeling like a stereotypical training run. The uptempo two mile efforts every couple of days, I thought, would assist in forcing the increased leg turnover needed for such faster races.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: left; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s1600/Final+Sport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s200/Final+Sport.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>**We back EVERY pair with </i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><a href="https://shadyrays.com/pages/official-live-hard-warranty-overview" style="color: #de7008;">FREE Replacements</a> if Lost or Broken</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>**</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: right; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s1600/DH4A7305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s200/DH4A7305.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>**Each order also secures 11 meals </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>to fight hunger through </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b><a href="http://fabackup.feedingamerica.org/optimized-homepage/?_ga=2.251139073.647855481.1504895789-1536808043.1504895789" style="color: #de7008;">Feeding America</a>**</b></i><o:p></o:p><br />
<div>
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><b style="background-color: transparent;">We are an independent sunglasses company </b><span style="background-color: transparent;">for those who don't want to buy from a massive, faceless company that has been operating the same way for decades </span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<b><a href="http://shadyrays.com/" style="color: #de7008;">shadyrays.com</a></b></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdeh5n_ptryE-q_D0wSthOU5T0WAgHJCDFEvGlqINS3Nn5Y0je2AEUmKllNN_9jutvAeIyEdNvBqC9JThVfV2xorZZsSGVJOoOyxNvAp3IkrCatF275iAuv_aJK9GIK7Ge4okwqxNoelG/s1600/shady+rays.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdeh5n_ptryE-q_D0wSthOU5T0WAgHJCDFEvGlqINS3Nn5Y0je2AEUmKllNN_9jutvAeIyEdNvBqC9JThVfV2xorZZsSGVJOoOyxNvAp3IkrCatF275iAuv_aJK9GIK7Ge4okwqxNoelG/s1600/shady+rays.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The 5th Line 5K's signature would be the opportunity to "Finish On Center Ice" of <i><a href="https://www.nationwidearena.com/">Nationwide Arena</a>,</i> home to the <i><a href="https://www.nhl.com/bluejackets">Columbus Blue Jackets.</a> </i>We would start just outside the arena along Nationwide Boulevard, then onto West, Spring and Front Streets heading south.We would turn west on Rich, north on Washington Boulevard, then onto Broad, Marconi and Long Streets. The final portion of the return would take us back to Spring, West and Nationwide before entering the arena.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcxX0JNHz9A_tOBnbB0uT6QBFi0oDAXkJuhERVjhul5GT9Er61v8G3i9cgNeB5l5idpPMjUX3Fz9Vt5yR69O6O_f7ItrRkhmZeAFT4rYcOXj3sJdYjRIq2HBB0XYScUchengIiBFdRXUV7/s1600/timthumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1089" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcxX0JNHz9A_tOBnbB0uT6QBFi0oDAXkJuhERVjhul5GT9Er61v8G3i9cgNeB5l5idpPMjUX3Fz9Vt5yR69O6O_f7ItrRkhmZeAFT4rYcOXj3sJdYjRIq2HBB0XYScUchengIiBFdRXUV7/s320/timthumb.jpg" width="217" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The first race of 2020 would be a great opportunity to attempt a sub 18:00 5k. I was hoping the 31 day winter challenge wouldn't leave my legs weary, leaving me to crash and burn on the back end of the race. We lucked out by missing out on the extreme cold (it was about 35 degrees) under a cloudy sky with a slight breeze.<br />
<br />
I arrived early enough to sit near a second floor window in Nationwide Arena overlooking Nationwide Boulevard to watch folks arrive and warm up. With it being NHL All-Star Weekend in St. Louis, all hockey related things were hibernating. Also, this would be a solo effort as L had worked related things to tend to.<br />
<br />
Finally making it outside, a leisurely one mile warm up made it less cold and more comfortable. As we gathered at the starting line, there were some familiar faces and plethora of high school kids piled up front. At the gun a couple of those familiar faces jump out front while I try to stay within myself among a group of teens. I'm at a comfortable pace and utilize my long stride to maintain fast pace without overdoing it.<br />
<br />
A slight decline on West Street, turns into a miniature incline along W. Spring and we're headed south on Front Street. The front runners have some good distance and the smaller group I'm with begins to dwindle. A pair of high schoolers drift ahead of me, but I'm keeping them totally taking off and us them as my measuring stick. My watch buzzes to indicate mile one, but unlike all other races I don't glance for a time check as we turn onto Rich Street.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1p6T3DunFnpwq_n-0f7rqPlvhhSZmDZHvKOqZ7JKyzBl2tsYMYxr3e9K2VvnrOl-N9cMggk2nI2wjrAToDKcU5IOuzvfcpOHCCOWAvzxZgJwaX8QEz-DAIeYmMLWYZhyTv-fS2qcGxw5p/s1600/Inked20200125_163640_LI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1226" data-original-width="920" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1p6T3DunFnpwq_n-0f7rqPlvhhSZmDZHvKOqZ7JKyzBl2tsYMYxr3e9K2VvnrOl-N9cMggk2nI2wjrAToDKcU5IOuzvfcpOHCCOWAvzxZgJwaX8QEz-DAIeYmMLWYZhyTv-fS2qcGxw5p/s320/Inked20200125_163640_LI.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Just seconds after the start</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I feel comfortable and fluid and thought maybe a watch glance would make me think too much about what was going on. So, I stayed course and tried to stay as close to the two teens in front as me as I could. We navigate onto Washington Boulevard, pass the water stop, cross the Broad Street Bridge and head north on Marconi. Those two teens get a little further away as we turn onto Long Street and the mile two indication arrives. Again, I ignore any attempt to look at my watch and focus on what I'm doing as the fatigue is beginning to set it.<br />
<br />
Working the arms and extending my legs as much as I can, I make the 180 degree turn along Hanover and back to W. Spring. It's crunch time now as we return to West Street and a slight incline, Nationwide Arena is now in full view at the end of the street. The teens are maintaining their distance, but I now hear not-so distant footsteps behind me. I'm wondering when I should begin forcing the issue if/when I get challenged.<br />
<br />
We reach the end of West Street, cross Nationwide Boulevard onto the service road toward the arena's loading dock & ramp into the venue. Those distant footsteps are no longer distant and are now accompanied by labored breathing. He has yet to come into my peripheral, so I hatch a quick plan of attack just in case. We move from the service road into the loading dock area and turn toward the arena ramp. Instead of waiting for him to attempt a pass, I beat him to the punch and throw what I have left in and sprint up the ramp, onto the arena floor and cross the finish at what would be center ice.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHxj0AfGMHqR8VXMQlEmGhUpwNl0Zl5ljZpdNwrenPDUTh6YwaaLg79q-PLpqvGMoQvDNhwogyqekTQUb2ZHNEPCl_7iYb1fK-aw1sF1aQyLuDYf6wh62_RRp5AuIFdpY37luHqWp4kyh9/s1600/thumbnail_20200125_125412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="694" data-original-width="1122" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHxj0AfGMHqR8VXMQlEmGhUpwNl0Zl5ljZpdNwrenPDUTh6YwaaLg79q-PLpqvGMoQvDNhwogyqekTQUb2ZHNEPCl_7iYb1fK-aw1sF1aQyLuDYf6wh62_RRp5AuIFdpY37luHqWp4kyh9/s320/thumbnail_20200125_125412.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>F</i><b><i>inishing at center ice, holding off the dude in white.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was nice to begin recovering in the warmth of the arena, as well forcing luke warm air into one's constricted lungs rather than the chilly winter atmosphere outside. I grab my medal and some water and turn back to the dude I held off. <i>"I thought for sure I was gonna catch you!,"</i> he says as we congratulate one another. Forcing a smile I relate, <i>"My kick is short and sweet, I had to wait as long as I could before letting go." </i>I can't say I know him, but his name is familiar as I tend to see it in various race standings somewhere around mine. On this day, I bested him by two seconds - finishing in 17:26.<br />
<br />
I wanted to celebrate a return to the sub 18:00 5k, but was a little disappointed as my watch indicated a distance of only 2.99 miles - not the standard 5k distance of 3.1. Though, if you do the math I would have easily broken the 18:00 barrier had the race been 528 feet longer. That is, of course, barring any unforeseen circumstances. With that said, it was great to see some consistent mile times of 5:45, 5:43 & 5:56. Overall, I finished 8th out of 3,011 and first in my age group.<br />
<br />
Afterwards, I went home to relax and watch some college hoops. L & I eventually finished the day with beers at <i><a href="http://www.staasbrewing.com/">Staas Brewing</a> </i>and a game of Scrabble while struggling to tune out the overexcited Pub Shuffleboard players next to us screaming their enthusiasm loud enough to slow the flurries pelting the City of Delaware.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFB7uHqSFJI0icnq7DHV4upoSay0s1sD-hWeCoFq2bpXeZSa_7VGg9VGTWVWbvdxDEL6elLXqBqPnvT2OuY2csAeMWuB3QCefeMYkPqaLwWLSI36M4gtHd2qIZhYZH_v9nXbW5x-XePqiJ/s1600/76246703_1595399010614838_7572228536296013824_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="360" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFB7uHqSFJI0icnq7DHV4upoSay0s1sD-hWeCoFq2bpXeZSa_7VGg9VGTWVWbvdxDEL6elLXqBqPnvT2OuY2csAeMWuB3QCefeMYkPqaLwWLSI36M4gtHd2qIZhYZH_v9nXbW5x-XePqiJ/s200/76246703_1595399010614838_7572228536296013824_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
So, when all was said and done, the Inspire Winter Columbus Challenge saw me run on all 31 days of January for a total of *<b>107.43*</b> miles. I think my strategy of adding a fast two mile run in between every two days of 4 to 5 miles made it easier on the mind and the body. And how did we celebrate the end of the challenge? L & I made a return trip to <i><a href="https://www.southhaven.org/">South Haven, Michigan</a> </i>to run the <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/SouthHaven/BreaktheIce5KandFrostyDash"><i>Break the Ice 5k</i></a> as part of the <a href="https://www.southhavenmi.com/pages/IceBreaker"><i>Ice Breaker Festival</i></a> on February 1st!!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
We made this trip at this time last year on a whim for L's birthday and it gave the phrase <i><a href="https://crs1975.blogspot.com/2019/02/snow-dunes-frozen-great-lake.html">"ice cold" a new meaning</a>. </i>We made a return trip for our honeymoon last August to enjoy the city during the human-friendly weather. In 2019 I finished in 19:00 flat while attempting to keep myself upright in the packed snow and ice, but the sunshine made it more bearable. As for L, she finished in 26:45. It was to be cold again, of course, but not arctic and would not resemble Siberia.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6uSZk72si1vvmf6eYmTxV_QrMsdFoQjIRMeWhj9FC8QeN5FglZeY2A4zqvvbCxzT1u-FBvF-N9gNDw9ZxdZhLPPW9_O9yYvC4OghGpuye5D-AlW0tFuAXDqCCdG1QJ4xFnd6bu_3ZvR2/s1600/83389544_1685675314920540_3180754695249461248_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="693" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm6uSZk72si1vvmf6eYmTxV_QrMsdFoQjIRMeWhj9FC8QeN5FglZeY2A4zqvvbCxzT1u-FBvF-N9gNDw9ZxdZhLPPW9_O9yYvC4OghGpuye5D-AlW0tFuAXDqCCdG1QJ4xFnd6bu_3ZvR2/s320/83389544_1685675314920540_3180754695249461248_o.jpg" width="230" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Break the Ice 5k</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This year, there were only remnants of the snow that had fallen days before. There wasn't any ice on Lake Michigan, but we did have some sleet and a nice headwind. As we were standing at the starting line, I overheard this woman next to me talking about the lake she said someone had told her about. She mentioned to those she was addressing that she hadn't seen it and wasn't sure what lake it was. <i>"Lake Michigan? Really? That's the lake we'll be running by? Which direction is it? Huh, I had no idea we were that close?", </i>as she continued to be bewildered that a giant inland ocean was less than half a mile away from us.<br />
<br />
And I will not mention the fact that we had 15 to 20 mph winds on this day which made the said huge body of water, as well as the<i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_River_(Southwest_Michigan)"> Black River</a> </i>and the <a href="http://www.south-haven.com/parks_and_recreation/marinas.php"><i>harbor/marina area </i></a>(both of which were a tenth of a mile away from us), very angry. You could hear the crashing waves from where we were, there was no mistaking the obvious continuous hum of the restless Great Lake. Maybe she was one of those characters from <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Langoliers_(miniseries)">The Langoliers</a> </i>who didn't believe what Dinah was hearing and is just accepting the fact she will soon be eaten by those creatures who consume time which has passed.<br />
<br />
Anyway, for the life of me, I could not figure how this woman had made it South Haven without seeing, hearing or knowing that this 22,400 square mile sea surrounded by four states - that was audibly growling at all of us - was behind her? Back to the task at hand, as the police escort arrived we began heading south on Kalamazoo Street. A group of five us trailed a pack of two who were leading the way and the pace wasn't too fast, or all that slow. As the slightly inclined straight stretch continued, some of our group drifted back as the snow & sleet mix began falling and driven into us by the powerful lake wind.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWy_-OTq7_RDHmbAJO7cRa8AA5voSPs78nmfY3AnAmSyvQgMCgT5bmOePVe84vTA5cmJ__ccXs4c3r5ydyuUJ2XLW7EOHAp5TpIc4uF1L7aS8E_mcbW0Rj4oUO8TMUFgbPA7Ps3m4rCCLl/s1600/83468767_1689186417902763_5103443641922224128_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="960" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWy_-OTq7_RDHmbAJO7cRa8AA5voSPs78nmfY3AnAmSyvQgMCgT5bmOePVe84vTA5cmJ__ccXs4c3r5ydyuUJ2XLW7EOHAp5TpIc4uF1L7aS8E_mcbW0Rj4oUO8TMUFgbPA7Ps3m4rCCLl/s320/83468767_1689186417902763_5103443641922224128_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Turning into the straight stretch finish as Lake Michigan<br />& South Haven Lighthouse guard the harbor</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At mile one, the 5:57 was ideal for possibly picking up the pace later in the race. As we turned onto Lovejoy Avenue, one of those among the front running two began falling off the pace. The lead runner was in full race mode and barring any mishaps, wouldn't be caught on this day. Among a teen and dude around my age, we slowly reeled in the fading gentleman in front of us. Once we turn back north on Monroe Boulevard, we drift by him and our mile two (5:56) was even with the first mile.<br />
<br />
Now on a slight decline for the next mile, the pace has picked up. I pull even with the teen and the older dude is directly behind us as the wind is at our back. We are now running alongside the picturesque Lake Michigan urging us along with each crashing wave and the<a href="https://www.southhaven.org/experience/south-haven-historic-lighthouse"><i> South Haven Lighthouse & Pier</i></a> standing firm among the swirling winds.<br />
<br />
As we approach Erie Street the teen and the dude drift in front, we turn downhill into the beach and pier parking lot. The teen steps it up and disappears through the parking lot and into the turn toward the finishing area. The dude and I do the same with me trailing by about five yards, but he's drifting away. As expected, mile three was much faster (5:40) though I'm not finding another gear to push up the finishing incline. I eventually cross at 18:04 and in fourth place, an improvement to last year's ninth place finish on the course measuring (by my watch) 3.09 miles.<br />
<br />
Moments later, L arrives and finishes 46th with one of her best 5k times (24:32). What makes this race cool is that it benefits the<a href="https://southhavenrams.org/"><i> South Haven Public Schools Middle and High School Cross-Country teams</i></a> and the students design the logo for the shirts each year. The logos are unique and quite outstanding. I will be happy to travel up here each year to enjoy the atmosphere and take home the unique experience.<br />
<br />
As <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Groundhog_Day">Groundhog Day</a> </i>arrived we saw our shadow, but did not run for the first time in 32 days. Though we did have a four hour drive home, but since it was Super Bowl Sunday we were treated to a great game and even a Monday off to finish the weekend. I ran every day of January and the first 32 days of 2020 and I survived, despite repeated efforts to find an excuse to take a break.<br />
<br />
Yeah, it wasn't easy but I think I made it out alright...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qUE4oDunYkc">Supergrass - Alright</a></i></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>We are young, we run green<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Keep our teeth nice and clean<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>See our friends, see the sights<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Feel alright<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>We wake up, we go out<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Smoke a fag, put it out<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>See our friends, see the sights<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Feel alright<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Are we like you?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>I can't be sure<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Of the scene, as she turns<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>We are strange, in our worlds<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>But we are young, we get by<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Can't go mad, ain't got time<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Sleep around if we like<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>But we're alright<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Got some cash, bought some wheels<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Took it out, through some fields<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Lost control, hit a wall<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>But we're alright<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Are we like you?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>I can't be sure<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>Of the scene, as she turns<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i>We are strange, in our worlds<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><i><b>Photos</b></i></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><i><b><br /></b></i></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><i><b><br /></b></i></u></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNmd6FO6VPr_dDCRQnvdXNCBqob3FjCfQpRK9UCaTQnCJJddhkCpF44PPMCBuus41VL_tBVfr0QPV7uVgMc7GagY9rnxT0CDXmsDPTC9pP2Fnwu2yjT_cPNcpb63PUFO6qlBDEAPUJQG7R/s1600/20200125_105603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNmd6FO6VPr_dDCRQnvdXNCBqob3FjCfQpRK9UCaTQnCJJddhkCpF44PPMCBuus41VL_tBVfr0QPV7uVgMc7GagY9rnxT0CDXmsDPTC9pP2Fnwu2yjT_cPNcpb63PUFO6qlBDEAPUJQG7R/s320/20200125_105603.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>The 5th Line 5k finish. Complete with live scoreboard video</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfGiwXSLFfD57kbJw_za0_CpeL-lwWLLC8zpw4dp3zA-yXgaxrK6RdEJiTTtzH9rudo1gSARtIFuvKpAtSq7xNEJNbwVpRjrZcZvCViO25D9i5Nv9hi1eSqPs-xPrKnIHTOxbnq3_IU67N/s1600/20200125_110643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfGiwXSLFfD57kbJw_za0_CpeL-lwWLLC8zpw4dp3zA-yXgaxrK6RdEJiTTtzH9rudo1gSARtIFuvKpAtSq7xNEJNbwVpRjrZcZvCViO25D9i5Nv9hi1eSqPs-xPrKnIHTOxbnq3_IU67N/s320/20200125_110643.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Outside Nationwide Arena</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNQ81eBWBJpNYs4KXbIo6M4W8_MSIJ_BkYT7_3DW7dEKTq-qMaThLI9SmMy8ea3VQ5_fVkdrai9lk_tLf28-D1W13_x8zyUirGPixwDiAXnH3dRfQoBJIkQ_cN3-4XQz4lPiwMKTraq1yI/s1600/IMG_20200125_190728_331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNQ81eBWBJpNYs4KXbIo6M4W8_MSIJ_BkYT7_3DW7dEKTq-qMaThLI9SmMy8ea3VQ5_fVkdrai9lk_tLf28-D1W13_x8zyUirGPixwDiAXnH3dRfQoBJIkQ_cN3-4XQz4lPiwMKTraq1yI/s320/IMG_20200125_190728_331.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Saturday night beers & Scrabble</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToMlnhl9sOHGis1UBlbSGP-gPnF6AWhgXfmg8WzsFPVwTw2KdTwyCsPcnu2sSFcDDdp7ZUIWlefJfIyYtYbPODjcQP3RTAozFe32OQGNL2tMtt3HxG4aMsUWWUzljz0rreirRNJaEC_kx/s1600/20200125_182306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="904" data-original-width="808" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgToMlnhl9sOHGis1UBlbSGP-gPnF6AWhgXfmg8WzsFPVwTw2KdTwyCsPcnu2sSFcDDdp7ZUIWlefJfIyYtYbPODjcQP3RTAozFe32OQGNL2tMtt3HxG4aMsUWWUzljz0rreirRNJaEC_kx/s320/20200125_182306.jpg" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Waiting for the gun</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS5g3NgEN4AhrPFmL8-4DaVRXEX4NpQa_U71s3CyRVSoKXOHRerutEs6HAkbUPGJvC5OMnMlDv-NaI3v6qRUzvTX1qGD0So3s2rbJQbKQYd6i1rXetmTUqWkx-S6f8Iq7EIdUpGzHQlx_w/s1600/IMG_20200125_181754_799.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS5g3NgEN4AhrPFmL8-4DaVRXEX4NpQa_U71s3CyRVSoKXOHRerutEs6HAkbUPGJvC5OMnMlDv-NaI3v6qRUzvTX1qGD0So3s2rbJQbKQYd6i1rXetmTUqWkx-S6f8Iq7EIdUpGzHQlx_w/s320/IMG_20200125_181754_799.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>My results, not too shabby.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX6b2xG4zJ9RPWex4V-S5XspP48c1A7Y5SyH8_h6xkJCDGFTUlt9M-dQ2ZbUaA_NNcfSl8B72b3F5QR6QyxtevpNr4yhFw2eBdS4O5jGe96OHyngrXpY9A-ydeeaE_JYXRKfu0NxxSwU0O/s1600/20200125_105609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX6b2xG4zJ9RPWex4V-S5XspP48c1A7Y5SyH8_h6xkJCDGFTUlt9M-dQ2ZbUaA_NNcfSl8B72b3F5QR6QyxtevpNr4yhFw2eBdS4O5jGe96OHyngrXpY9A-ydeeaE_JYXRKfu0NxxSwU0O/s320/20200125_105609.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>A spectator's view</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVTh7UXe-IrVHA2lR7zEqC3DJBBzmZrdKD3KYgK242W9KebwJQe9T3s4mGZl152L9IHa1nMLASPpYbjQc_VJArEuGNZXYO5xW0JlF8ESVrris3yXQ0hXiCEOYPjERW5GNuzw-VcbrQ5Vd/s1600/Crazy+lady.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="960" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcVTh7UXe-IrVHA2lR7zEqC3DJBBzmZrdKD3KYgK242W9KebwJQe9T3s4mGZl152L9IHa1nMLASPpYbjQc_VJArEuGNZXYO5xW0JlF8ESVrris3yXQ0hXiCEOYPjERW5GNuzw-VcbrQ5Vd/s320/Crazy+lady.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>At the Break the Ice 5k, next to crazy lake lady</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho4qv7wMIc_67r1bgci5tIwZlEM_UAnRXvUEAvc2C5i5UmuALvie2z3yzcta17Xg2okxLjN0ZFkQxnStq8mlM8P8dXTVqJWnZ-zgVtGoFyQa12mP5hpT5khPy5agaixQl8je_TAstmUqV2/s1600/83694421_1689192977902107_5232142925357383680_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="960" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho4qv7wMIc_67r1bgci5tIwZlEM_UAnRXvUEAvc2C5i5UmuALvie2z3yzcta17Xg2okxLjN0ZFkQxnStq8mlM8P8dXTVqJWnZ-zgVtGoFyQa12mP5hpT5khPy5agaixQl8je_TAstmUqV2/s320/83694421_1689192977902107_5232142925357383680_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>L heading to the finish</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10H4Il1lvgdaJy1tNrnE_6pUUX40MH_DOdICaKEwqI5uPlBZJNjxKTcBnnFRdwYsX-CBOTw6wfTfQcy72HAY-PQ_fe0hOesWXYyxgxy7nzNuKNeSEjE9zFMhA7OkXUFrNdmAxD2vm6inw/s1600/finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="335" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10H4Il1lvgdaJy1tNrnE_6pUUX40MH_DOdICaKEwqI5uPlBZJNjxKTcBnnFRdwYsX-CBOTw6wfTfQcy72HAY-PQ_fe0hOesWXYyxgxy7nzNuKNeSEjE9zFMhA7OkXUFrNdmAxD2vm6inw/s320/finish.jpg" width="152" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Not too shabby again.</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiy2TFCeAgbbnYq2ta9emDY-X0li7w9EU9-nqdue6Ek0oDpPDUdklcit4tVOm35qhpeOwj0Q87G-VQRgzK4ptb2f-rHEVilbASJCOATeJXaHmUaCPICP_9uJaRoUeUCelh0pfzFmEOcQ_r/s1600/83930279_10156777754922665_7603019182610841600_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiy2TFCeAgbbnYq2ta9emDY-X0li7w9EU9-nqdue6Ek0oDpPDUdklcit4tVOm35qhpeOwj0Q87G-VQRgzK4ptb2f-rHEVilbASJCOATeJXaHmUaCPICP_9uJaRoUeUCelh0pfzFmEOcQ_r/s320/83930279_10156777754922665_7603019182610841600_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>From the lighthouse after dark.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<u><i><b><br /></b></i></u></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-85885905300732335472019-12-30T21:48:00.000-05:002019-12-30T21:48:18.738-05:00Mascot Thugs, Miles & HarmonySometimes you just gotta do what you gotta do. In the employment arena, these things fall under the "others duties as assigned" file. They can be frustrating and/or embarrassing, but if you just do what's asked of you without making a scene - you will be rewarded in the long run.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhAcZCiVeNoaL9mDvJdAUmtP4iy2RIz2I_LFto0684yDJzBygywaNQHvU2lsdX7skGM7PqRUVqisxPs2GA38ciiwvmnkzkBdxvygcgMQM0MvZNKhHNbDP15olqXHLcF4-9jLbn5IALFX0N/s1600/78983699_10156639390152665_691797116875440128_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhAcZCiVeNoaL9mDvJdAUmtP4iy2RIz2I_LFto0684yDJzBygywaNQHvU2lsdX7skGM7PqRUVqisxPs2GA38ciiwvmnkzkBdxvygcgMQM0MvZNKhHNbDP15olqXHLcF4-9jLbn5IALFX0N/s320/78983699_10156639390152665_691797116875440128_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>L & C - The Holiday version.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
As part of my employment at the library, I am asked to dress as our giant blue owl mascot on occasion. The playful eight-foot tall bird of prey is a lovable character adored by children and appreciated by parents. The library is asked on a regular basis for the mascot to make appearance at various events and we are all too happy to oblige as long as the event is an opportunity to promote the library and our services.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In December, a senior center near one of our branches was holding their annual Breakfast with Santa event and the library would be there with a craft for the kids. In an effort to add to the fun, our mascot of nocturnal nature would be there to further enhance the morning fun. On this Saturday morning, my co-worker Scott was busy setting up the craft table and greeting the folks who know him well. I, fully clad in the cobalt suit of foam rubber armor, began the playful antics expected of our giant feathered talisman.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The mascot doesn't speak and movement above the waist for the person acting as our feathered representative is very limited. Add in the super small meshed "windows" of sight and you have what can sometimes be a struggle. But if you are familiar with your surroundings and listen, you can get around without too much trouble. On this day, we stayed in section of the cafeteria-area without random obstructions and I could get around without trampling on any humans or falling into someone's tasty breakfast.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The senior center keep the event organized and fun, and made it festive by playing holiday music on a piano accompanied by an accordion. The holiday craft table manned by Scott was a hit and our owl mascot was the pied piper who led kids to it. Soon some of the parents were coming over to great and interact with our over-sized adorable library representative. When the crowd would dwindle a bit, I...er...I mean "the owl" - would pose for pictures, sit on Santa's lap and take part in the full festivities.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRpdXMbyLRPcmgF8LsZgqq8milLEd0pFz1_G4lBH6LYQc7ewOfY6QYPwihZwJY5SAOIf9HDC35-xoGDUWSeHr8aCOprhmdfEqmOoc-qJwD-07RbgZHGnf6pVudVJzsGH54Z6-a6lMXhRn/s1600/78257919_10156608920617665_8681459314285608960_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRpdXMbyLRPcmgF8LsZgqq8milLEd0pFz1_G4lBH6LYQc7ewOfY6QYPwihZwJY5SAOIf9HDC35-xoGDUWSeHr8aCOprhmdfEqmOoc-qJwD-07RbgZHGnf6pVudVJzsGH54Z6-a6lMXhRn/s320/78257919_10156608920617665_8681459314285608960_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Our house, in the festive mood</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of those times when I was free to roam, my mascot masquerade evolved into dancing with myself to the beat of whatever Christmas tune was being played - I was still performing and had to act the part. At about this time, I feel a tug on my arm ( I mean, "wing") and the phrase, "<i>You poor thing, I'll dance with you!" </i> I turn to my right to point my pinholes of vision toward the subject to see who is attempting join my little dance party and it is one of the seniors helping with the event.<br />
<br />
The elderly woman was all smiles and we joined hands & wings as we danced around to whatever holiday classic was exuding from the dime store band. Now, I can only really move my feet in mascot cocoon I was inhabiting but we made it work. It helped that she seemed to be stable and fluid herself. She and the humble owl made merry to everyone's delight! Then just as fast it began, it came to a sudden end.<br />
<br />
As the holiday song we were partying to ended, my owl antics slowed down and eventually to a stop. Though, my holiday dancing partner had a harder time grasping the momentum shift. As I came to a halt, my winged-hands let go of the elderly dancing queen and she - too - released her grip on this youthful spectacle. I may have been in foam-rubber solitary confinement, but I was still able to control my movement....she could not.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwc0dsJJecIuXIPUvOjo0Dge0YDeUWtvYoRH75dcl2SsxH4eYSndNypoNOAvi2VhMLEo68NXRPn2XodsH7HayUMpCjU0GeAWdNSQMh1ULzelWvAWzy0onD3FI8KoTDKQPqSsHCsrevLbea/s1600/79277691_568744580348830_7965099743300812800_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwc0dsJJecIuXIPUvOjo0Dge0YDeUWtvYoRH75dcl2SsxH4eYSndNypoNOAvi2VhMLEo68NXRPn2XodsH7HayUMpCjU0GeAWdNSQMh1ULzelWvAWzy0onD3FI8KoTDKQPqSsHCsrevLbea/s320/79277691_568744580348830_7965099743300812800_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Whiskey & Jameson using me as a chair<br />or my life after being banished for the<br />the senior center Christmas carnage</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Upon letting go, my tiny window of vision continued turning to the right. From that point I hear a thud. It was the recognizable sound of a human body falling onto a concrete floor followed by the slightest tremor, though this was not produced by the shaking of the Earth's surface. It was created by the collective gasps of the 15 to 20 revelers who were witnessing what seemed to be the Breakfast with Santa muscle,<i> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luca_Brasi">Luca Brasi</a></i> the owl mascot, putting the finishing touches on a party-goer who had pushed it one December ballad too far.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The lady who was dancing with my gentle giant impression had come to a stop, but her feet had not become set. So when we simultaneously let go of one another, the only thing that could stop her<i> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leaning_Tower_of_Pisa">Leaning Tower of Pisa</a></i> impression was the mortared floor below. I turn my line of sight back toward the sound of the human body collapse and she is on the floor in a heap, surrounded by horrified seniors and family members. Luckily, my owl covered face could not be seen because I mouthed a long string of obscenities out of shear panic and anxiousness that I'm sure - if audible - would have stopped a number of the frail, yet still beating, hearts huddled around us.<br />
<br />
She stayed on the floor for a moment or two, then was helped up by those around here. She was stunned, but smiling. I gave her a hug as she laughed and told me she was okay. Apparently, the thin layer of trampled carpet covering the floor had enough give left in it to keep her from breaking anything or concussing herself. As I breathe a sweaty sigh of relief, a nearby voice says in snarky tone, <i>"I KNEW that was going to happen." </i> I couldn't see who it was and wanted to say something back, but acting as the non-verbal library representative it was a good that I just wondered away - only mustering a half-hearted number one "salute" hidden by my winged hand.<br />
<br />
Still in costume, I find my co-worker and the look on his face was - I'm sure - the same as mine: wide-eyed and struggling to lift his jaw off of his shoes. I lean into him and whisper,<i> "When can we get out of here?"</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"We have about 30 minutes left,"</i> he replies as his voice cracks while looking around as if he was expecting some sort of geriatric counter attack. Shortly thereafter, he put away his table of things and I hid around the corner - out of sight - to peel the bird costume off of my perspiring body. The senior center folks thanked us for taking part in their event, but made no mention of the near elderly execution. The quiet drive home was savored, though thoughts of <i><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0195714/">Final Destination-like</a></i> retribution kept me from being completely relaxed.<br />
<br />
Other than this December 7th trauma, the month was fun and holiday inspired.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: left; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s1600/Final+Sport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s200/Final+Sport.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>**We back EVERY pair with </i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><a href="https://shadyrays.com/pages/official-live-hard-warranty-overview" style="color: #de7008;">FREE Replacements</a> if Lost or Broken</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>**</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: right; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s1600/DH4A7305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s200/DH4A7305.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>**Each order also secures 11 meals </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>to fight hunger through </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b><a href="http://fabackup.feedingamerica.org/optimized-homepage/?_ga=2.251139073.647855481.1504895789-1536808043.1504895789" style="color: #de7008;">Feeding America</a>**</b></i><o:p></o:p><br />
<div>
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b><b style="background-color: transparent;">We are an independent sunglasses company </b><span style="background-color: transparent;">for those who don't want to buy from a massive, faceless company that has been operating the same way for decades </span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<b><a href="http://shadyrays.com/" style="color: #de7008;">shadyrays.com</a></b></div>
<br style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdeh5n_ptryE-q_D0wSthOU5T0WAgHJCDFEvGlqINS3Nn5Y0je2AEUmKllNN_9jutvAeIyEdNvBqC9JThVfV2xorZZsSGVJOoOyxNvAp3IkrCatF275iAuv_aJK9GIK7Ge4okwqxNoelG/s1600/shady+rays.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdeh5n_ptryE-q_D0wSthOU5T0WAgHJCDFEvGlqINS3Nn5Y0je2AEUmKllNN_9jutvAeIyEdNvBqC9JThVfV2xorZZsSGVJOoOyxNvAp3IkrCatF275iAuv_aJK9GIK7Ge4okwqxNoelG/s1600/shady+rays.png" /></a></div>
I finished my competition year with a couple of 5k's. The first was the <a href="http://www.thanksgivingwattle.com/default.aspx"><i>Thanksgiving Wattle</i></a> on turkey day morning with L, my brother, brother-in-law, niece and nephew. It was chilly and overcast, but I felt good. It was only disappointing upon learning I was just three seconds away from breaking the 18:00 barrier. Even L did reasonably well as she was also recovering from a stress fracture in her foot.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihkv8nU595tP06aGbPrEyAplNI6TJTNqE6o1uBL8KdXlXeOU_qjxrwq3mVBOqOjm0SE9F4pFPFGyD6T1WmQk_RCcuoUd3d1uKLkFLxsFwRlUh5zwfG7NbY_UCPuaXCKbnEHy1WYnHIAI7M/s1600/turkey+wattle1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="313" data-original-width="602" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihkv8nU595tP06aGbPrEyAplNI6TJTNqE6o1uBL8KdXlXeOU_qjxrwq3mVBOqOjm0SE9F4pFPFGyD6T1WmQk_RCcuoUd3d1uKLkFLxsFwRlUh5zwfG7NbY_UCPuaXCKbnEHy1WYnHIAI7M/s320/turkey+wattle1.jpg" width="320" /></a>We've taken part in this race for three years now and I have gotten faster each time. Maybe 2020 will be the year I get to be a 17:00 minute turkey.<br />
<br />
A week or so later, I had to work on the day of Traffic Panther Gary's <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Carroll/Shalom5K"><i>Shalom 5k</i></a>, so I signed up for the <a href="https://www.runsanta5k.com/results"><i>Run Santa Run 5k</i></a> in Columbus the following day just to keep my running mind situated. This, too, was a chilly day but we had plenty of sun to warm us up as the race day moved along.<br />
<br />
I ran this race just months after I started running again back in 2016 and simply ran it to break the training by myself monotony. Then I struggled to keep an even pace and finished 7th with lackluster 19:40, but at the time I was ecstatic since running was new again. On this day I really had no plan. About halfway through I had tired legs and settled on keeping a decent pace to finish out. Now I did finish with an okay for me 18:20, but I was hoping to put more of a finished on it which never happened.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpdj3dFmMB0Nu_hItRwWIKVM-0_bX-gDRofzx6TElJ5iMWwy9y14ROFf277Df7HUCfahnO3wFIotmmY52NiOAurfkmGvGNlBpyp_rtv4bnyA6s71THqAzZLwSPX_NgNfQi67mMtY01n7RO/s1600/Run+Santa+Run.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="671" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpdj3dFmMB0Nu_hItRwWIKVM-0_bX-gDRofzx6TElJ5iMWwy9y14ROFf277Df7HUCfahnO3wFIotmmY52NiOAurfkmGvGNlBpyp_rtv4bnyA6s71THqAzZLwSPX_NgNfQi67mMtY01n7RO/s320/Run+Santa+Run.jpg" width="320" /></a>With the racing year now over, L and I are looking back to what went right in 2019 and how to improve on it in 2020. As for what we needs changing, I'm not sure. I did run several half marathons, maybe a few less of them and more intermediate races.<br />
<br />
Maybe we should schedule more destination, weekend getaway races. The <a href="https://www.akronmarathon.org/race-series/half-marathon-10k/"><i>Goodyear Half</i></a> back in August (two weeks before our wedding) was one of those, returning to a city I worked in several years ago when I was still in broadcasting. We also went to <a href="https://www.southhaven.org/"><i>South Haven, Michigan</i></a> for L's birthday, stood on a frozen solid Lake Michigan and ran a 5k back in February. As long as we can avoid injuries, we should be able find a couple of things to entertain ourselves.<br />
<br />
My goal for this year was to garner some PR's and run more miles than 2018. So, I lowered half marathon best twice and it now sits at 1:23:54 thanks to the <a href="https://www.capitalcityhalfmarathon.com/"><i>Capital City Half</i></a> in April . Though I did best my 2018 PR four separate times this year (<i>Athens Half, Capital City, Goodyear Half & Nationwide Children's Half</i>). My 10k PR is now at 36:59 and have to thank CRC Westerville Teammate John for it as he pulled me through the first five miles of the<i> <a href="https://www.columbus10k.com/">Columbus 10k</a></i> in June. Oh, and don't forget lowering my mile time to 4:53 at the <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Dublin/crcmiledash"><i>CRC Mile Dash</i></a> in July. Even though we had the same exact time - Gary, I still beat you ;) .<br />
<br />
As for the number of miles, in 2018 I squeezed out 1,301.32. That mark was eclipsed on December 15th and ultimately I ended 2019 with 1,357.6 (3.7 per day, 26.1 per week).<br />
<br />
A new running year and a new running decade is ahead, I'm married and I turned 44 on December 20th. L and I have quite a bit to look forward to and can't wait see what's in store following the New Year's Eve Columbus Blue Jackets - Florida Panthers hockey game with friends Ryan & Sarah. Our eyes are open wide and with 20/20 vision - through corrective lenses, of course - we're ready to tackle another 365 with gusto...</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VTuJuok5QK4">Two Door Cinema Club - Next Year</a></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>I don't know where I</b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b><o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Am going to rest my head tonight<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>So I won't promise that I'll speak<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>To you today<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>But if I ever find<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Another place, a better time<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>For that moment<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>I was never what I am<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Take me to where you are<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>What you've become<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>And what you will do<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>When I am gone<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>I won't forget<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>I won't forget<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Maybe someday<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>You'll be somewhere<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Talking to me<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>As if you knew me<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Saying, I'll be home for next year, darling<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>I'll be home for next year<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>In between the lines<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Is the only place you'll find<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>What you're missing<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>That you didn't know was there<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>So when I say goodbye<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>You must do your best to try<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>And forgive me this weakness<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>This weakness<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>'Cause I don't know what to say<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Another day<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Another excuse to be sent your way<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Another day<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Another year<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Maybe someday<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>You'll be somewhere<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Talking to me<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>As if you knew me<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Saying, I'll be home for next year, darling<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>I'll be home for next year<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>And maybe sometime<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>In a long time<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>You'll remember<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>What I had said there<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>I said, I'll be home for next year, darling<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>I'll be home for next year<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>If you think of me<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>I will think of you<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Maybe someday<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>You'll be somewhere<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Talking to me<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>As if you knew me<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Saying, I'll be home for next year, darling<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>I'll be home for next year<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Maybe sometime<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>In a long time<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>You'll remember<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>What I had said there<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>I said, I'll be home for next year<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Maybe someday<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>You'll be somewhere<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Talking to me<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>As if you knew me<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>Saying, I'll be home for next year, darling<o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><b>I'll be home for next year</b></i><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b></b><br />
<br />
<b><i><u>Photos 2019</u></i></b><br />
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmSZDfz42I1doaY1F7OxYgroa3SiunB2jbs1RS0rzZNMpCgYdcUMobtSUIBDrqBmSsr3qsOLCuUpWyqCkQlOg4yLZ6aVNaELZsBFcZ8EVuxCs4zFG4zagB8wrGyTKUEOinSyqyMRMy4UUt/s1600/69567470_10156358518702665_5041764454102990848_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmSZDfz42I1doaY1F7OxYgroa3SiunB2jbs1RS0rzZNMpCgYdcUMobtSUIBDrqBmSsr3qsOLCuUpWyqCkQlOg4yLZ6aVNaELZsBFcZ8EVuxCs4zFG4zagB8wrGyTKUEOinSyqyMRMy4UUt/s320/69567470_10156358518702665_5041764454102990848_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Holy crap, we're MARRIED!</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZaY5rKgnpVI5hH9p1KMwx_WHeGDdlou4xq-cWvwSiKRNjNcAUYQUBTmsJcvmY-24gwq1hH46qOWdkW-K4ARq0IzySSkjXBdAyI2TDSAuqnA3c-fhCT0Voo6Tm1CXC0DIvtvn7e_HYgYs1/s1600/50061176_10155868814657665_9112280650454401024_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="282" data-original-width="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZaY5rKgnpVI5hH9p1KMwx_WHeGDdlou4xq-cWvwSiKRNjNcAUYQUBTmsJcvmY-24gwq1hH46qOWdkW-K4ARq0IzySSkjXBdAyI2TDSAuqnA3c-fhCT0Voo6Tm1CXC0DIvtvn7e_HYgYs1/s1600/50061176_10155868814657665_9112280650454401024_n.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>At the <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Delaware/frigid5k">Fantastic Frigid 5k Series</a></b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuD_yuh8nPlu0nB3_8aMRQbLUiarIzGK6mH9BJiZR0X73nwTvWtl-ctQvGWCXbY-FkJ24QSCiXIQ0piYismx9XOMAZkbwOVV5CGiwkjBreDJ6SHxqH2RlgrRjVOU5UtVfZ8dzI-MpqHDG/s1600/51276829_10155893906307665_3724490180464214016_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuD_yuh8nPlu0nB3_8aMRQbLUiarIzGK6mH9BJiZR0X73nwTvWtl-ctQvGWCXbY-FkJ24QSCiXIQ0piYismx9XOMAZkbwOVV5CGiwkjBreDJ6SHxqH2RlgrRjVOU5UtVfZ8dzI-MpqHDG/s320/51276829_10155893906307665_3724490180464214016_o.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Post run grocery shopping, the definition<br />of "suave".</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DF7y8vWMoE332b9LQ2-is15spbl1x5KxKYitiIh_7IPAeGmmGAijLtZ86PyeqHxroMH8tW3l5r6apSjqvccN3i3t5oRBW0YxesQ98OJagZfdGf6udf1h7vBTSMdqUgKP3TIwCsOew2gG/s1600/56897007_10156034692952665_4439860869588844544_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="956" data-original-width="960" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DF7y8vWMoE332b9LQ2-is15spbl1x5KxKYitiIh_7IPAeGmmGAijLtZ86PyeqHxroMH8tW3l5r6apSjqvccN3i3t5oRBW0YxesQ98OJagZfdGf6udf1h7vBTSMdqUgKP3TIwCsOew2gG/s320/56897007_10156034692952665_4439860869588844544_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>At the <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/Columbus/CRCSpringDistanceRace">Choo Choo 9 Miler & 5K</a><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;"> </span></i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9g3Y5euNGkzB89o5-iThU_BGBqskdLWx8l20wh8t50yPtWNnkeZTrx3jN4_eP36XgOuhX4VWvKS2NB7Yq2vGI0nR5ROQw6WBsJQo-SPbnSfRnKvQWVMOzCdxfjBz5XQ8JpXIjV0xu2HNi/s1600/65239419_10156212439752665_6346009502067720192_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="576" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9g3Y5euNGkzB89o5-iThU_BGBqskdLWx8l20wh8t50yPtWNnkeZTrx3jN4_eP36XgOuhX4VWvKS2NB7Yq2vGI0nR5ROQw6WBsJQo-SPbnSfRnKvQWVMOzCdxfjBz5XQ8JpXIjV0xu2HNi/s320/65239419_10156212439752665_6346009502067720192_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Dancing with the fishes at<a href="http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/eastharbor"> East Harbor State Park</a></i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCVTXpn7ApwODtAv2W7T5bRNnWWjDOBCSM9tV7pVsgn1PoB1_dY0C0OqorYOSANkYDKfsqwPUlNd2jwp8kPeAV4MT4kt6063ONTbxIsm8QMXwfHkqappIk8kb77iVb9-Muyo7BrXuPmOw/s1600/67297181_10156291923792665_814910425974964224_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="424" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpCVTXpn7ApwODtAv2W7T5bRNnWWjDOBCSM9tV7pVsgn1PoB1_dY0C0OqorYOSANkYDKfsqwPUlNd2jwp8kPeAV4MT4kt6063ONTbxIsm8QMXwfHkqappIk8kb77iVb9-Muyo7BrXuPmOw/s320/67297181_10156291923792665_814910425974964224_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Goofing off on the <a href="https://www.owu.edu/">Ohio Wesleyan University</a> Campus.</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDS8RM9gKMQdD8gwGkubao6NbPDRAI54FfGgWldn399-9VT_wug02I_36PcKhAHctnWSobidbnd6jss4KVZgkeR1ugduZmsulGIh59rSPcHtA3Xmv72K71tC7ZpmAiqDzhxRUtY2oYLk7/s1600/51906453_10155926009122665_5878697346363031552_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYDS8RM9gKMQdD8gwGkubao6NbPDRAI54FfGgWldn399-9VT_wug02I_36PcKhAHctnWSobidbnd6jss4KVZgkeR1ugduZmsulGIh59rSPcHtA3Xmv72K71tC7ZpmAiqDzhxRUtY2oYLk7/s320/51906453_10155926009122665_5878697346363031552_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>At our favorite hangout, <a href="http://www.staasbrewing.com/">Staas Brewing</a>.</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBb75bCFCF46GoDfSXU-riLkcUT52QzU5VjkY5bRcWsv2tgLzKj9WJ5ZgphxC10W9hHT-MOXYf5kxXTaAj-VaBOUZ3mx67bd1iwohPABtNOEc1PlAje4kAO4Hm9PXiOHR_nyiBfP2Hlp9k/s1600/69488332_10156373989982665_343615989478326272_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBb75bCFCF46GoDfSXU-riLkcUT52QzU5VjkY5bRcWsv2tgLzKj9WJ5ZgphxC10W9hHT-MOXYf5kxXTaAj-VaBOUZ3mx67bd1iwohPABtNOEc1PlAje4kAO4Hm9PXiOHR_nyiBfP2Hlp9k/s320/69488332_10156373989982665_343615989478326272_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://www.michigan.org/property/warren-dunes-state-park">Warren Dunes State Park in Sawyer, Michigan</a></i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdJwzERA28HOJHYlsY99nePh4Rtk76S9uK18-lhhjLsvcSHyFa45bP1189WbYuLGf9KauaTEOR0fnS2QDnzNzl_lgRx9mhVKXv6uYBylsVw_4Zl0HTcdak_F53rKo5AgTVqwgsNI5Fh8E/s1600/69451568_10156373982137665_3410220001712406528_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdJwzERA28HOJHYlsY99nePh4Rtk76S9uK18-lhhjLsvcSHyFa45bP1189WbYuLGf9KauaTEOR0fnS2QDnzNzl_lgRx9mhVKXv6uYBylsVw_4Zl0HTcdak_F53rKo5AgTVqwgsNI5Fh8E/s320/69451568_10156373982137665_3410220001712406528_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Storm cell moving in - South Haven, Michigan</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi79GWk_h2Wl_2tC95mG4L7MazsmQDqq034FuGAnsDmQL0Do7GZdZa2WTGpnq_G7_OlkDNwavDc6JVVT1w65YrbN7hfHmz6WUhmAP4_0EUT07FqO_pRinCGfLHP-2guT0SRVp404WFUT8Gn/s1600/69509667_10156373982577665_6014304616542371840_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi79GWk_h2Wl_2tC95mG4L7MazsmQDqq034FuGAnsDmQL0Do7GZdZa2WTGpnq_G7_OlkDNwavDc6JVVT1w65YrbN7hfHmz6WUhmAP4_0EUT07FqO_pRinCGfLHP-2guT0SRVp404WFUT8Gn/s320/69509667_10156373982577665_6014304616542371840_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>From the honeymoon in South Haven, Michigan.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PzuB32uhvlxkqqITjCBejcWhikQIEg6oBessbAaxG36cYGd8cxUtXQvnP3gAmUXRW211aSvvC9aJOtXxWLrIfY31I2e_OZL587UZSJfqkojHpqHPnIfZPw_KN3fAUVJS2RE1THcE3etb/s1600/70812432_509538052936150_5615617800480489472_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2PzuB32uhvlxkqqITjCBejcWhikQIEg6oBessbAaxG36cYGd8cxUtXQvnP3gAmUXRW211aSvvC9aJOtXxWLrIfY31I2e_OZL587UZSJfqkojHpqHPnIfZPw_KN3fAUVJS2RE1THcE3etb/s320/70812432_509538052936150_5615617800480489472_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>One of our many August wedding photos </b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJANkpTw_K77MklIQWiVr1T1R3B2sqrHWDONxnCu2qotXHKxL7pWBDH0BATMyQFs74RexgNQm0R_Zk75c-kyOQZewu2xO_R1oCFhCkJbXR5eK1bPLT4Hq757K1uEVrYu2sfzh2sBq-yacw/s1600/Gross+Craig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJANkpTw_K77MklIQWiVr1T1R3B2sqrHWDONxnCu2qotXHKxL7pWBDH0BATMyQFs74RexgNQm0R_Zk75c-kyOQZewu2xO_R1oCFhCkJbXR5eK1bPLT4Hq757K1uEVrYu2sfzh2sBq-yacw/s1600/Gross+Craig.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: 12.8px;">
<b><i>My impression of myself after eating the<br />enormous amount of holiday treats from</i></b></div>
<div style="font-size: 12.8px;">
<b><i>work, family and in our house</i></b></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi30coPXhffsbfaKSiSy4H54eEgc5zos2tu8nH4LiosRysmCXjORM6MxomJhf-ZfYRMqxQY-kPOMvLmRIBtsORhSKf5_778yu52iRrsgzbz6jpFcEe3G1_eizPpsIfaMQ6NiO4BFWF9tTkn/s1600/79225289_10218766977259083_1263993220057006080_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="960" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi30coPXhffsbfaKSiSy4H54eEgc5zos2tu8nH4LiosRysmCXjORM6MxomJhf-ZfYRMqxQY-kPOMvLmRIBtsORhSKf5_778yu52iRrsgzbz6jpFcEe3G1_eizPpsIfaMQ6NiO4BFWF9tTkn/s320/79225289_10218766977259083_1263993220057006080_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>L & I and some members of the RunWalkDelaware </b></i><br />
<i><b>group, Teresa and CRC Westerville Teammate Ken, </b></i><br />
<i><b>at the group Christmas Party.</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG-N5x2W834W_FNg3m8k3rGpphNIzGL97cuGsEuXWwXSm-MVDVxd17XxkNnTTcwJNxAKTD3q87Dllx7BDwTz7ZxvfqDh5LSHHeX9RWH5AKuGIrwWD1JNDMybP6xqQoEGISyYs_5GdzL6IR/s1600/79461389_10218766973738995_9039548317054271488_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG-N5x2W834W_FNg3m8k3rGpphNIzGL97cuGsEuXWwXSm-MVDVxd17XxkNnTTcwJNxAKTD3q87Dllx7BDwTz7ZxvfqDh5LSHHeX9RWH5AKuGIrwWD1JNDMybP6xqQoEGISyYs_5GdzL6IR/s320/79461389_10218766973738995_9039548317054271488_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>At the RunWalkDelaware Christmas Party at the<br />garage-turned party shack next door to us.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></div>
Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-59991591808764852062019-11-26T10:11:00.000-05:002019-11-26T10:11:30.248-05:00Unstuffing the Helmet Slinging Turkey<div>
There haven't been many years where we have had significant snowfall in November, but this year we seem to have skipped Autumn all together.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCmB2lD7Sit1oNlFxwS29wEwxMit7B9Xuc8Ug9UZEZqEBZ80RHmVeshhhj8OINDvqjVrMBi6abTJfV5CmfwxEebZI8sQzRRZYDcNL78k98pyOoqApTeGCT-nUhYXHLk1CTTS9i4EjC54ZL/s1600/72186113_10156555624132665_5338275797784330240_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCmB2lD7Sit1oNlFxwS29wEwxMit7B9Xuc8Ug9UZEZqEBZ80RHmVeshhhj8OINDvqjVrMBi6abTJfV5CmfwxEebZI8sQzRRZYDcNL78k98pyOoqApTeGCT-nUhYXHLk1CTTS9i4EjC54ZL/s320/72186113_10156555624132665_5338275797784330240_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>The backyard of The Fermented Firefly (AKA: Our House)</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Sure we get flurries every year, but most accumulation comes closer to December. Only a few times can I remember getting a decent snowfall prior to Thanksgiving. Though, that's exactly what we were honored with this year. It went from 50 degrees to four inches of the white stuff and school closings in under 24 hours. The arctic wave that strolled through the U.S. November 9th through the 13th found itself in Ohio the evening of the 11th. I drove home from work during it's infancy and by the time L & I ate dinner, we had a full on snowfall.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Being folks who enjoy the change of seasons, what did we do to celebrate? We went out in it, of course. We strolled around our neighborhood and goofed off like a couple of kids before heading in for the night. The following morning was just as pretty, though driving north to work was less than desirable. Most roads were relatively clear, but the nut jobs who can't drive when the wind blows to hard or the when sun is too bright found it upon themselves to navigate with their eyes closed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilhUXdtnN3_qFBUozYD3GhLCsNgGpAY0ZYJHbzQVxONBF_hvLF8iS2woyqh76qLFXqCmaFCkkEInxg-Bibl0LJ7He05IiBuxZHDaVQzAFAUqW6l9JCRUPwRJjQgqkdYgoN2LRI0lUr819x/s1600/26169447_1670693912987086_1470605442992535793_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="320" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilhUXdtnN3_qFBUozYD3GhLCsNgGpAY0ZYJHbzQVxONBF_hvLF8iS2woyqh76qLFXqCmaFCkkEInxg-Bibl0LJ7He05IiBuxZHDaVQzAFAUqW6l9JCRUPwRJjQgqkdYgoN2LRI0lUr819x/s200/26169447_1670693912987086_1470605442992535793_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>Even at work I had to keep reminding myself it was only mid-November, despite the feeling it was late December or the first month of the third decade of the 2000's. Nonetheless, we were forced to rejoin the fun that is training in the snow under the cover of nightfall.<br />
<br />
It was a bit ironic that we had signed up for the <a href="https://www.hotchocolate15k.com/columbus?fbclid=IwAR0eN9uJRUYPKY4-AMIJoOQEqVu0fVE47bScm-ShLaPIHK4QiAOZdug8aHI"><i>Columbus Allstate Hot Chocolate 15k/5k</i></a> the week before when we simply expected it to be less than warm. Though it has <i>"warmed up"</i> to temperatures of 40 degrees instead of the teens - around the time of the snow - were still dodging some banks of snow and ice.<br />
<br />
Even more weird was the fact we had moved most of our summer outdoor furniture and belongings into the basement from the carport just the day before as well as preparing our garden beds for hibernation. That carport was covered with snow the next night thanks to the blowing snow.<br />
<br />
Did we know something others didn't? Did we have some sort of seasonal premonition? No, we just happen to live in Ohio. This is nothing new to us. Although, running a 15k would be something new for L. I was only hoping to improve at a distance I haven't had much experience with. L, on the other hand, would be stepping up from what had been her longest distance - the 10k.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEnwfXtA-mz_o88ObKjHYimfZ0C-dPnaVRN0pEJJvjzAvVm79FucIbzqE9vb5OSDg3931c_dqEbDIPP-cqTzq3uJ_eFoLdDhG2ufB5mSf8Mw1mHiuq4118hvbUxez7ajG3dt6kl2bvbUp2/s1600/75362266_10156562535777665_2808734016868450304_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEnwfXtA-mz_o88ObKjHYimfZ0C-dPnaVRN0pEJJvjzAvVm79FucIbzqE9vb5OSDg3931c_dqEbDIPP-cqTzq3uJ_eFoLdDhG2ufB5mSf8Mw1mHiuq4118hvbUxez7ajG3dt6kl2bvbUp2/s200/75362266_10156562535777665_2808734016868450304_o.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Beers at Staas Brewing - Milk Stout<br />& Sage IPA</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The Thursday night before, L & I had dinner at a nearby establishment then wandered across the street to <a href="http://www.staasbrewing.com/"><i>Staas Brewing</i></a> to watch the <i><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/boxscore?gameId=401128044">Browns & Steelers</a> </i>beat the crap out of each other. We left at halftime since it had been a long day, but the night and morning ended up being longer then we had hoped for. Both us tossed and turned as what we had eaten seemed to whirl around our stomachs like <i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PMHlURlxus">Myles Garrett swinging Mason Rudolph's helmet like a cat o' nine tails</a>. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Upon getting up Friday morning, everything I had eaten decided to evacuate itself from it's gastric prison - utilizing both unguarded exits. It was, as you can imagine, an unpleasant experience, but I felt better immediately thereafter. We more than likely will not be going back to this eatery anytime soon, but the experience didn't ruin the weekend like the rest of Garrett's season. Because, hey, we still had a race to run... and some edible non-tainted food to eat...<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: left; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s1600/Final+Sport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s200/Final+Sport.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>**We back EVERY pair with </i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><a href="https://shadyrays.com/pages/official-live-hard-warranty-overview" style="color: #de7008;">FREE Replacements</a> if Lost or Broken</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>**</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: right; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s1600/DH4A7305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s200/DH4A7305.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>**Each order also secures 11 meals </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>to fight hunger through </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b><a href="http://fabackup.feedingamerica.org/optimized-homepage/?_ga=2.251139073.647855481.1504895789-1536808043.1504895789" style="color: #de7008;">Feeding America</a>**</b></i><o:p></o:p><br />
<div>
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div>
<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><b style="background-color: transparent;">We are an independent sunglasses company </b><span style="background-color: transparent;">for those who don't want to buy from a massive, faceless company that has been operating the same way for decades </span></b></b></div>
<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b> <a href="http://shadyrays.com/" style="color: #de7008;">shadyrays.com</a></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeCxfcOCbx0RJhauX9E_CJprQ4LOc9uqanTf98Vp-YJxUPidRmSu8657YDhk_2dJGfzxD4f85iYNlN6PNlaocoNM1D6ti2KOQyiNvmLnZuHgEXOqPU0nQHuj4cevVMxrnsbU0tvpZPyW1n/s1600/shady+rays.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="123" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeCxfcOCbx0RJhauX9E_CJprQ4LOc9uqanTf98Vp-YJxUPidRmSu8657YDhk_2dJGfzxD4f85iYNlN6PNlaocoNM1D6ti2KOQyiNvmLnZuHgEXOqPU0nQHuj4cevVMxrnsbU0tvpZPyW1n/s1600/shady+rays.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: left;">In recent years, most of the races (if not all) in November for us have been 5k's. This year I wanted to add something to that traditional Thanksgiving Day 3.1 miler and challenge myself a bit more. Having added more and more distance to her repertoire, L joined in following an awesome 10k trail race finish just two three weeks before. Exuding confidence, we were ready to tackle Columbus in November.</span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAh5I_SVVsgVNbCuECFoZKlw8WFxvtbjx6opVDE1TmJjchNo1PElmAXV_0NO8frBRaIEHIvtuxEO-B6sSnK4RI0035GMALJnuWYkMfsyCbiiJwu8Ipjj8Ecw-OFUDuGAo23bey9CDJpfZ7/s1600/ba35d84925d0c1b4779626c3526476d3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAh5I_SVVsgVNbCuECFoZKlw8WFxvtbjx6opVDE1TmJjchNo1PElmAXV_0NO8frBRaIEHIvtuxEO-B6sSnK4RI0035GMALJnuWYkMfsyCbiiJwu8Ipjj8Ecw-OFUDuGAo23bey9CDJpfZ7/s320/ba35d84925d0c1b4779626c3526476d3.png" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Our race route</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The route for this race would be a conglomeration of portions of the <span style="font-style: italic; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.capitalcityhalfmarathon.com/">OhioHealth Capital City Half Marathon</a>, </span><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://aep%20ohio%20columbus%2010k/" style="font-style: italic;">AEP Ohio Columbus 10K</a><i> </i>and the<i> </i></span><span style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://www.columbusmarathon.com/">Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon & Half Marathon</a>. </i>And not to mention it circles a neighborhood I used to live and and work, so this would be more than familiar territory for me.</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
We had a clear sky, but it was cold. Bouncing around to keep warm in the corral well before full sun & 28 degrees, a participant next to me wearing chicken-head shaped winter head gear with full face-shield leans over to me, <i>"What time does the race start?"</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Noticing he is also glancing over to the line-up of port-a-johns, <i>"Starts at 7:30 dude, you have plenty of time." </i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Not sure if he's running the 5k or 15k as we were all mixed together, I also wanted to suggest he ditch the chicken head but I keep it to myself.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Just before we get to the countdown and I look back to see a sliver of L in the corral behind me. She looked ready, so was I. At the gun I tag along behind a few faces I recognize but don't go with them for fear of going out to fast (like always). I keep my self in check, but push a little to warm some chilly muscles. Within a couple of minutes, the lead groups have weeded out the pretenders and on the declining straight stretch along South High Street I can see everyone in front of me (mile one: 6:01). There looks to be about 20 or so and everyone seems to be maintaining for now.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirIv6Q2VPgMUIBIFHOmAHdLoVRcqHCqenTLRn9wBLDyZCibAnZddfah96Bn4lAn8VgJYa06vfj1kCFgVPv0t7e6gzYJ9QrCbu7EvrBdhtfGfDjgHAMLqBV4GUDbG_kMaLzJeYgSYcUUJhQ/s1600/thumbnail_Screenshot_20191117-142730_Chrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="914" data-original-width="593" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirIv6Q2VPgMUIBIFHOmAHdLoVRcqHCqenTLRn9wBLDyZCibAnZddfah96Bn4lAn8VgJYa06vfj1kCFgVPv0t7e6gzYJ9QrCbu7EvrBdhtfGfDjgHAMLqBV4GUDbG_kMaLzJeYgSYcUUJhQ/s320/thumbnail_Screenshot_20191117-142730_Chrome.jpg" width="207" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Battling inclines</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At mile two I'm going about what I was looking for (6:09) and my goal is stick around this time for as long as I can. We turn to go around Schiller Park and two guys in front of me utilize the fuel stop. I pick out the last person at the stop to get a gulp of sports drink and just as I reach for the cup she's hold out she - looking behind me - drifts back to get a better look at those oncoming and unbeknownst to her pulls the cup away from my reaching hand. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
She turns back just as I whiff at it, <i>"Oh no! I'm so sorry!"</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A little perturbed, but this happens to me at least once a race. It was early and I was hurting.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I pass dude in blue as we complete the Schiller Park loop and head back north along High Street (6:14). The long straight stretch incline shows the leaders well ahead and those within sight are scattered about. Passing the majority of the participants still heading south I see Traffic Panther Sarah and she throws out some encouragement. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Moments later, I see L and we congratulate one another on our efforts. I hear heavy footsteps coming from my rear and as he passes I see it is the dude in blue. He suddenly found another gear, but he's pounding the ground hard. Finally getting a swig of sports drink from a volunteer who is paying attention at mile four (6:18) and I slow a bit as the incline gets a bit longer and with the benefit of a nice decline on the other side.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Finally turning left off of High Street toward Goodale Park, an officer on foot has directed an SUV to follow him onto the course. It doesn't stay off to the side, but rather is directly in the middle of the one lane that's open. As it creeps along, I drift left to go around it and purposely bang my hand on the driver's side door, <i>"Get off the course!"</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidgG03p4p6sqv5csDR9GnB5JtDscaOa39nA77xtNOjWQfv4XdtG4KA5q-ahkoGLIclQBdnMASyL2w8rjamv0sVIuLAiafn94wJeYq1cbYVwP9k3jQz9yot9KC6-d4BHDKTB3BolYtpaYHh/s1600/thumbnail_Screenshot_20191118-164105_Chrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="837" data-original-width="594" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidgG03p4p6sqv5csDR9GnB5JtDscaOa39nA77xtNOjWQfv4XdtG4KA5q-ahkoGLIclQBdnMASyL2w8rjamv0sVIuLAiafn94wJeYq1cbYVwP9k3jQz9yot9KC6-d4BHDKTB3BolYtpaYHh/s320/thumbnail_Screenshot_20191118-164105_Chrome.jpg" width="227" /></a>As I pass, I hear the officer from behind me, <i>"He' just trying to get around the event, sir."</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i> "I don't care, get'em off the course," </i>I say as there are hundreds of ways to get around the area without driving<i> through </i>the race (mile 5: 6:40).</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Along the downhill the 5k & 15k races, which have been running side-by-side, split. At this point, those ahead are a good 20 to 30 seconds off and I'm running by myself up Neal Avenue passing the neighborhood I once lived in (mile 6: 6:04). Just before we reach the left turn onto West Fifth Avenue, I'm passed and keep pace with him to the water stop on Fifth. He heads to the fueling station volunteers on the left, I drift to those on my right. As I grab a cup on the go, I see he has come to a dead stop to refuel.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I find this odd and continue on, though within moments I heard oncoming footsteps. As the runner passes I notice it isn't the gentleman who had stopped, but someone else. At mile seven (6:23) the dude who stopped before returns and passes me again. We turn south on Olentangy River Road and pick it up to keep the two ahead within reach. We have gained on two a little further ahead as we now have full sun and are running direction into it (mile 8: 6:24).</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8a6iWGVFGzUB-DT4FcfSSmSPlRm09w8bRxxV2A2DUDO4Gbe0UxYMT6sXuir2FeMsug6dDP6i2e46SAHlxYkbOdlnrAaR7W4M9J7IgQnsId3Xt-GdQVwy5IqVwyuwT7N_owy7py34i2up5/s1600/thumbnail_Screenshot_20191121-124146_Chrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="897" data-original-width="598" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8a6iWGVFGzUB-DT4FcfSSmSPlRm09w8bRxxV2A2DUDO4Gbe0UxYMT6sXuir2FeMsug6dDP6i2e46SAHlxYkbOdlnrAaR7W4M9J7IgQnsId3Xt-GdQVwy5IqVwyuwT7N_owy7py34i2up5/s320/thumbnail_Screenshot_20191121-124146_Chrome.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>L finishing</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We turn left onto a small hill on Goodale Street which then declines and evolves into Vine Street. Here a longer incline begins and those in front drift further ahead. I'm not catching anyone, just hoping to finish strong. We meet back up along side the 5k finishers (mile 9: 6:33), circle around Nationwide Arena and finish on a nice decline in shade of the surrounding downtown sports venue and buildings. My watch indicates the 15k was a bit long (9.4 instead of 9.3) and I'm in at 59:11. I'm sure I could have finished a bit better, but hard to complain with <i><a href="https://raceday.enmotive.com/?&_ga=2.36249888.1667699924.1574359192-722290528.1573851000#/events/2019-allstate-hot-chocolate-15k-5k-columbus/results">17th place overall and finishing first in my age group</a>. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The post race celebration was also mostly in the shade of the buildings as it was still just 8:30. I slowly head toward the gear check tent to grab our things while recovering from the gauntlet and I notice a burning sensation the right side of my jaw. I take of my glove to inspect and find the sweat on that side of my face is in the beginning stages of freezing. No, it wasn't cold <i>at all</i> on this day.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I get our things and put on my warm jacket and throw the hood over my head while walking back over to the finish area to wait for L under the beautiful ornate arch remnant from Columbus' once grand - but now gone - Union Station. She arrives before too long and is tired, yet ecstatic, with a 1:25:23 finish in her longest race ever (by three miles) and just two weeks after an awesome finish in a 10k trail race. This is a great step toward her goal of running her first 13.1 miler at the <a href="https://www.athensohiomarathon.com/"><i>Athens Ohio Half Marathon</i></a> next April. We went straight home and ordered a pizza. The rest of our Sunday was spent crashed on the sofa and watching football with one eye open.<br />
<br />
The season of night running is upon us with lights, reflectors and headlamps all aglow. I think running when you can see less makes the experience go faster and more personally fulfilling, like navigating a tunnel. You can focus more and block out all of the lingering remnants that don't make much sense or are there to distract you. That's what it's all about: putting in the work, enjoying yourself and not worrying about what happens when the clock strikes midnight.....</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYPoMjR6-Ao&list=TLPQMTIxMTIwMTlErra4ZZGFNA&index=2">The Airborne Toxic Event - Sometime Around Midnight</a><o:p></o:p></b></i></div>
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And it starts</i></div>
<i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>Sometime around midnight</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>Or at least that's when</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>You lose yourself</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>For a minute or two</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>As you stand</i></div>
<i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>Under the bar lights</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>And the band plays some song</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>About forgetting yourself for a while</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>And the piano's this melancholy sound check</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>To her smile</i></i></div>
<i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And that white dress she's wearing</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>You haven't seen her</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>For a while</i></div>
</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>But you know</i></div>
<i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>That she's watching</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>She's laughing, she's turning</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>She's holding her tonic like a crux</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>The room suddenly spinning</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>She walks up and asks how you are</i></i></div>
<i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>So you can smell her perfume</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>You can see her lying naked in your arms</i></div>
</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And so there's a change</i></div>
<i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>In your emotions</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>And all of these memories come rushing</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>Like feral waves to your mind</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>Of the curl of your bodies</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>Like two perfect circles entwined</i></i></div>
<i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And you feel hopeless, and homeless</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And lost in the haze</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Of the wine</i></div>
</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And she leaves</i></div>
<i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>With someone you don't know</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>But she makes sure you saw her</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>She looks right at you and bolts</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>As she walks out the door</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>Your blood boiling</i></i></div>
<i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Your stomach in ropes</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And when your friends say what is it</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>You look like you've seen a ghost</i></div>
</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>And you walk</i></div>
<i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>Under the streetlights</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>And you're too drunk to notice</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>That everyone is staring at you</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>And you so care what you look like</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>The world is falling</i></i></div>
<i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Around you</i></div>
</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>You just have to see her</i></div>
<i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>You just have to see her</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>You just have to see her</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>You just have to see her</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><i>You just have to see her</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>And you know that she'll break you in two<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>More Photos</u></i></b><br />
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzEH9LfuzsMrlNLqPZQl7gNAunw6-lyrXmuByXeJl95u3IetRmJUgbQ3sWkrgLSZ4VKnuZ4bUduvjag7-WXlijgkiYaBdlRzpcZTwdne-xNypZP2CAWRsJQgJkaNsEvTFcQkyJ5Ktv_9F3/s1600/74184710_10156555624177665_532404944876077056_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzEH9LfuzsMrlNLqPZQl7gNAunw6-lyrXmuByXeJl95u3IetRmJUgbQ3sWkrgLSZ4VKnuZ4bUduvjag7-WXlijgkiYaBdlRzpcZTwdne-xNypZP2CAWRsJQgJkaNsEvTFcQkyJ5Ktv_9F3/s320/74184710_10156555624177665_532404944876077056_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Our cars the morning after the snow dump</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNTnC0IqvIVjBa8pXUBqVqeSZN2OcSLpmEwzjrR9E3iwPFVZrLrDyERP9enK6uTaBJJ7hehN-0Q_c6nYE4SAwQJVlpUe7jNy33Aw_4V1wLcHAW8qg-7AqCu1qDAPkD9otWHKL7H1i3AG-/s1600/74418932_10156554325807665_5628423262653382656_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNTnC0IqvIVjBa8pXUBqVqeSZN2OcSLpmEwzjrR9E3iwPFVZrLrDyERP9enK6uTaBJJ7hehN-0Q_c6nYE4SAwQJVlpUe7jNy33Aw_4V1wLcHAW8qg-7AqCu1qDAPkD9otWHKL7H1i3AG-/s320/74418932_10156554325807665_5628423262653382656_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Just before the avalanche</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXhcMArisrX62Y2NjFfUlHxm6pQrspbw2gApcS8vATKBcOFubAv_uhfilnVtpv5O7JjyCHoXoK_2qs0L_sLpbU50Hinvxz3rs9td2n_Oe55wplDFh0-tsUoiSmFaRI5cD27-n9O_kqzdHT/s1600/74472922_10156554735337665_1263973785329991680_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXhcMArisrX62Y2NjFfUlHxm6pQrspbw2gApcS8vATKBcOFubAv_uhfilnVtpv5O7JjyCHoXoK_2qs0L_sLpbU50Hinvxz3rs9td2n_Oe55wplDFh0-tsUoiSmFaRI5cD27-n9O_kqzdHT/s320/74472922_10156554735337665_1263973785329991680_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Our house</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAAPYc4g0jpQhXKX-wUwkcDuK8UZQEkmoiH0acWXe9GJFN3f1Uo9dINU9SfC0JAoczUXdilHK1Uo6CN2htE9m-YmSsy8KmMnfvhXdNUmU0ay9e9bXLUiaAWxWf-q6NHEZzmb_ay_ytvtRu/s1600/74474287_10156554734647665_8870121817256230912_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAAPYc4g0jpQhXKX-wUwkcDuK8UZQEkmoiH0acWXe9GJFN3f1Uo9dINU9SfC0JAoczUXdilHK1Uo6CN2htE9m-YmSsy8KmMnfvhXdNUmU0ay9e9bXLUiaAWxWf-q6NHEZzmb_ay_ytvtRu/s320/74474287_10156554734647665_8870121817256230912_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Our street</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizOzSxZKVtiHIkil8XIpNhLnvadn_dna9EHYCIQv8hzZVsRqP5uUCa81CL8UUAR775wOD60lNCwGOTdyRpjNEs2WjNXQYgl-0evznJxJzUkfr9r4OO4ABLTY_si1rlNrVPTBplx9p-froP/s1600/74705073_10156555624272665_4435884580276273152_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizOzSxZKVtiHIkil8XIpNhLnvadn_dna9EHYCIQv8hzZVsRqP5uUCa81CL8UUAR775wOD60lNCwGOTdyRpjNEs2WjNXQYgl-0evznJxJzUkfr9r4OO4ABLTY_si1rlNrVPTBplx9p-froP/s320/74705073_10156555624272665_4435884580276273152_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>From my work window Tuesday morning</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhcBsrieY_dvjxiJZmNSaCVYALQQbtWPNrpOQ3zsXgesaIEBCW78SkouHDVXle85HXaq6YaldNdhcoHMGeU9eyTQjid3rxTyL2ul_OJedbNKjx-LijPWQLek9J-toH_ctRyaN_cyaxktRB/s1600/75061076_10156554331187665_37886469158731776_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhcBsrieY_dvjxiJZmNSaCVYALQQbtWPNrpOQ3zsXgesaIEBCW78SkouHDVXle85HXaq6YaldNdhcoHMGeU9eyTQjid3rxTyL2ul_OJedbNKjx-LijPWQLek9J-toH_ctRyaN_cyaxktRB/s320/75061076_10156554331187665_37886469158731776_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>The drive home on Monday night</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVRPrl_knvUh9IzPay2bhzkgCnGZJz1V-bsT3cuw56r-4StcER-TDdIQ31SSLS1FJNntlzBLTP9xj9-7pk4eL4Ocvu023QPLW-XaQT0NbzrBX9bfbGKi3QeEsGF2XkIrCNjgi-Kiz-iyA/s1600/75336376_10156555624222665_8329094931691864064_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbVRPrl_knvUh9IzPay2bhzkgCnGZJz1V-bsT3cuw56r-4StcER-TDdIQ31SSLS1FJNntlzBLTP9xj9-7pk4eL4Ocvu023QPLW-XaQT0NbzrBX9bfbGKi3QeEsGF2XkIrCNjgi-Kiz-iyA/s320/75336376_10156555624222665_8329094931691864064_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Our front yard</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW02jBRZ0jcCbh9ScrE917ob4aakdMTE4CmoKYrtqxV9gF7FMKs49DJ1CAfa1-6XDGeH2veKbTLZW-aEkzHKOGLX79J2CYGIKaHCaXsr-1Z8-yX7RLanAzF0znY5QrE_pbu1bdlGcpr-Vc/s1600/75439302_10156555632952665_5314318126609858560_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="960" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW02jBRZ0jcCbh9ScrE917ob4aakdMTE4CmoKYrtqxV9gF7FMKs49DJ1CAfa1-6XDGeH2veKbTLZW-aEkzHKOGLX79J2CYGIKaHCaXsr-1Z8-yX7RLanAzF0znY5QrE_pbu1bdlGcpr-Vc/s320/75439302_10156555632952665_5314318126609858560_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Our backyard</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaiNTPd2WVqKI5Kyfj2iTpP33geD-KBHljDTgnS47sIewVCflmqgBG_1zHfx0VJ5W8uqqw0zqqm-FpQt_wf5RBgpHrzUtJkx1c4T9NhGmLjLeBe6WbNxUWNB2HQp-i2P_mWnmWorJs4NBS/s1600/75614170_10156554734732665_3950076710552076288_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaiNTPd2WVqKI5Kyfj2iTpP33geD-KBHljDTgnS47sIewVCflmqgBG_1zHfx0VJ5W8uqqw0zqqm-FpQt_wf5RBgpHrzUtJkx1c4T9NhGmLjLeBe6WbNxUWNB2HQp-i2P_mWnmWorJs4NBS/s320/75614170_10156554734732665_3950076710552076288_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Our neighbor's house</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9MILrtizzypWg2JaByTBdxQgWIa4Qzo42LXe1ya56Bnr1mBEI27xPLrdVFcunMyI93Y8BUNupCt21u0_lK2XJJ3AFcxJwpf3rQqh7qWC-ms0RDfc1cJHWXXsn2lKAnoC_1jqmLjmH0c8/s1600/76647928_10156554325687665_3924050033372037120_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9MILrtizzypWg2JaByTBdxQgWIa4Qzo42LXe1ya56Bnr1mBEI27xPLrdVFcunMyI93Y8BUNupCt21u0_lK2XJJ3AFcxJwpf3rQqh7qWC-ms0RDfc1cJHWXXsn2lKAnoC_1jqmLjmH0c8/s320/76647928_10156554325687665_3924050033372037120_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Our front step, in the early stages.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJG9M8lDa4XVgobcgIcUd4edro9dSD1G5vH4SsCOL2noKklDUkTr2xBQxRJKlXAnwCvxtUCbcontYS0oTWAkyYk4T1wkz85CDO0V-sddLt0-Brl_N9GcGiiuGLPQ-Cqum_8UsaagDuNCg/s1600/76684632_10156554734982665_7411053738120445952_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJG9M8lDa4XVgobcgIcUd4edro9dSD1G5vH4SsCOL2noKklDUkTr2xBQxRJKlXAnwCvxtUCbcontYS0oTWAkyYk4T1wkz85CDO0V-sddLt0-Brl_N9GcGiiuGLPQ-Cqum_8UsaagDuNCg/s320/76684632_10156554734982665_7411053738120445952_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Our street</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf9CMNO93p7HPiw-Qon57etNxuqa1LR7JQesq6RCofxuM-_7QJK8jO5S5TJHBs2mMnOKIZLA1BdUztjS0UK83Q_2EErg4FZRjLgqXmtgCVT_-BpO3prML5qfqFzxnJscGJoJEHQtCAAqGh/s1600/76765610_10156554735182665_1934946744680841216_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf9CMNO93p7HPiw-Qon57etNxuqa1LR7JQesq6RCofxuM-_7QJK8jO5S5TJHBs2mMnOKIZLA1BdUztjS0UK83Q_2EErg4FZRjLgqXmtgCVT_-BpO3prML5qfqFzxnJscGJoJEHQtCAAqGh/s320/76765610_10156554735182665_1934946744680841216_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Our street, again</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ks4sNnwcZidi2la_qZZrfYbHMoMubBwb2U6gMhIF0YYpPRomr7_6eOCh71taJmZMISscr2bmdm1hc-TX4DjW5ODOsLxdlUUkcw4AtFBRs9ljJ_YYvfRL0Uc9elaNkXCZiuCvuE7MkRWO/s1600/thumbnail_Screenshot_20191117-185322_Chrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1042" data-original-width="589" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ks4sNnwcZidi2la_qZZrfYbHMoMubBwb2U6gMhIF0YYpPRomr7_6eOCh71taJmZMISscr2bmdm1hc-TX4DjW5ODOsLxdlUUkcw4AtFBRs9ljJ_YYvfRL0Uc9elaNkXCZiuCvuE7MkRWO/s320/thumbnail_Screenshot_20191117-185322_Chrome.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Concentration</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgjjxK7fvYURkYHsc928nh1y0eRw66A2UnwvyZ4ciH_g_LLmjiEOLDlTPMcNHScUmcj_MtmYv5e5xiKrolX4c_qSvSNzi04A-zSqP3aArEQqoAr7VMCBfIfEhxPqcHl8WiXbc2liDych5v/s1600/thumbnail_Screenshot_20191121-124119_Chrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="834" data-original-width="595" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgjjxK7fvYURkYHsc928nh1y0eRw66A2UnwvyZ4ciH_g_LLmjiEOLDlTPMcNHScUmcj_MtmYv5e5xiKrolX4c_qSvSNzi04A-zSqP3aArEQqoAr7VMCBfIfEhxPqcHl8WiXbc2liDych5v/s320/thumbnail_Screenshot_20191121-124119_Chrome.jpg" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>L means business</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoHLhM0BPiTf7_wm9uuD4XsIwhCw7vKe5ql_ZD4IxRKIWzMde3uWMqF1N3rit2V9qy8hR0GtuFPofFwGQBDRLFWUo3-GgizYcEibK83rT35zZmDGTLPlWAH6Btfl0l5MSX2hS5xOCBkihr/s1600/thumbnail_Screenshot_20191117-110509_Chrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="872" data-original-width="595" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoHLhM0BPiTf7_wm9uuD4XsIwhCw7vKe5ql_ZD4IxRKIWzMde3uWMqF1N3rit2V9qy8hR0GtuFPofFwGQBDRLFWUo3-GgizYcEibK83rT35zZmDGTLPlWAH6Btfl0l5MSX2hS5xOCBkihr/s320/thumbnail_Screenshot_20191117-110509_Chrome.jpg" width="218" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Finishing</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxHB7GK6bx1vEyRR-iqLwMQLjXQ0W1AJHa4Mvk5xEG_FLocIkB3e2g7AnBswDpxOYivImL4mVkRJyVJkDoI_WUdqwRZihx1ZyUMhlklvqzfSKKwhjuVmwMqqY5PrFBt09v-QXwupX1UhKm/s1600/71073538_10156576706287665_7403361176815403008_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxHB7GK6bx1vEyRR-iqLwMQLjXQ0W1AJHa4Mvk5xEG_FLocIkB3e2g7AnBswDpxOYivImL4mVkRJyVJkDoI_WUdqwRZihx1ZyUMhlklvqzfSKKwhjuVmwMqqY5PrFBt09v-QXwupX1UhKm/s320/71073538_10156576706287665_7403361176815403008_o.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0MrRv2kElKylTymd6746eK-AZimKS8eihV5_mT_cNI6SaCz_k3M_5JOgxhsHi3vsK9kuqLn-9iwLbH7-bYK7Ep-l_S2gvgjRAmHPvKie9IxROox63-_7y41_lZOq2sByPmfteDOh0boF/s1600/77409569_10156579602392665_326960630290448384_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid0MrRv2kElKylTymd6746eK-AZimKS8eihV5_mT_cNI6SaCz_k3M_5JOgxhsHi3vsK9kuqLn-9iwLbH7-bYK7Ep-l_S2gvgjRAmHPvKie9IxROox63-_7y41_lZOq2sByPmfteDOh0boF/s320/77409569_10156579602392665_326960630290448384_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-22708728315669528472019-10-23T16:46:00.001-04:002019-10-28T16:05:46.129-04:00The Best Record Store Urgent Care in PittsburghLast Christmas, L's gift to her brother, Chris, was a day he could select to go to any vintage/used record store he wanted. Now living in Steubenville (Ohio), Chris decided upon a trip to Pittsburgh.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYtvInxedtnv1Gb08I0UbmoLR1F4oXTCKZwNmnzaXa2nLMRu5CNdaS664njNTow2tz_RqO70yv2HaqllDHA_zTOvwNaZAOmKehItU6uTgJ1TlM5c_FN9fTtUHO-KSuqtMYcN6kwdN9n7zq/s1600/thumbnail_20191011_200205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYtvInxedtnv1Gb08I0UbmoLR1F4oXTCKZwNmnzaXa2nLMRu5CNdaS664njNTow2tz_RqO70yv2HaqllDHA_zTOvwNaZAOmKehItU6uTgJ1TlM5c_FN9fTtUHO-KSuqtMYcN6kwdN9n7zq/s320/thumbnail_20191011_200205.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Steel manufacturing at night along the<br />Ohio river</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With the steel city just 40 miles from Chris, L and I made a weekend of it by heading down to stay with him. On Friday, we drove through <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rayland,_Ohio"><i>Rayland (Ohio)</i></a> to visit <i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/HightowerBrewingCompany/">Hightower Brewing Company</a> </i>before getting to Steubenville. The following morning, we drove to the Pittsburgh area to visit the <a href="https://www.atticrecordstoreinc.com/"><i>Attic Record Store</i> </a>in nearby <i><a href="https://www.millvalepa.com/">Millvale, PA</a> </i>and visit a couple of breweries. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The last time I was in Pittsburgh, it was 2005, I was turning 30, working in radio in Canton, Ohio and took a tour of the <a href="https://www.culinaryschools.org/top-culinary-schools/pennsylvania-culinary-institute/#context/api/listings/prefilter"><i>Pennsylvania Culinary Institute's Le Cordon Bleu Program</i></a> deep in the heart of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Downtown_Pittsburgh"><i>golden triangle</i></a>. I was seriously examining a career change and cooking school was something I really wanted to do. The cost, unfortunately, kept me from moving forward ($40,000 for an 18 month program) - not to mention the few thousand I still owed from getting my broadcasting degrees.<br />
<br />
I think I received a follow up phone call from them at least once a month for the next two years, asking when I thought I could start taking classes. The program has since closed, but I still wonder if I made the right call or what might have evolved had I threw caution a bit harder into the wind. Sure, my time in broadcasting came and went and - perhaps - the same would have been true with the cooking school route. Though, it is fun to wonder what it would have been like to further my cooking prowess in the shadow of the three rivers and where it might have taken me.<br />
<br />
Anyway, we find the record store and it's massive inventory. For a music geek like Chris, he could browse for hours. He and L went digging for treasure while I casually glanced around for a short time. I then stepped outside and browsed the neighborhood in search of a restroom. Luckily the nearby restaurant/pharmacy combination had one for public use (<i><a href="https://www.pamelasdiner.com/">Pamela's P & G Diner</a>)</i>. I continued on and before I realized it I had walked right into a brewery partly facilitated by a dude I used to play Sunday morning flag football with in Columbus.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWXVEldTp-4RlGVsyT3W5SJkIYfdmzPkPxnHGTAzKwLvw_sOfqJdd72I9oW5P9rmd3Zj1Bf3iFgVgWHqrgHYEMppLk6A4PelqUAGnJh8wPFD5XexDUbZtI2xj5bsOUykXYJuSN-2TMSCUF/s1600/72210012_10156469723077665_3894886818885140480_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWXVEldTp-4RlGVsyT3W5SJkIYfdmzPkPxnHGTAzKwLvw_sOfqJdd72I9oW5P9rmd3Zj1Bf3iFgVgWHqrgHYEMppLk6A4PelqUAGnJh8wPFD5XexDUbZtI2xj5bsOUykXYJuSN-2TMSCUF/s200/72210012_10156469723077665_3894886818885140480_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><u>Take home from Grist House</u></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Originally from PA, Dan was among the original six to eight guys we played with regularly years ago. He moved back to Pittsburgh and helped start a brewery <i>(<a href="https://gristhouse.com/?fbclid=IwAR1ptToPvI6fFuTwQyTCF7wy5ARQoab1mS6DtXPR-Tx5wqjl2-QUEW2sJNU">Grist House</a>)</i>, among other things. It was funny to walk right to it by happen chance and figured we would stop by later as I headed back to find to L and Chris. Once at the record store, L isn't feel well and soon needed to seek medical attention as a precaution. We left Chris to his own devices as he continued to salivate over mountains of music.<br />
<br />
She drove while I navigated us to the nearest urgent care. I felt sorry for her, as she tried to keep herself calm listening to my directions while attempting to maneuver Pittsburgh's crowded & unfamiliar streets and rolling hills. More than once she over analyzed my directions and attempted to do nearly the exact opposite <i>(something she tends to do when stressed or frustrated)</i>. Having to talk her off the ledge and get her to relax a little, we finally made it. Luckily, it was not a busy day at the medical facility - we were in and out in about 30 minutes. She received a prescription for the stomach bug that hit her and the pharmacy was just a block a way, but it wouldn't be ready for nearly an hour.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikutCjm6_AflObGZpFUBzZ7MYragHQGeI9raU5tYZ2HVN4Xo_k4yfKCiAvOrNnWf2DSqS7PmzZsKVDyf3_KP7ljB0aywXIbD5sbjSXWZgspkCa9PJd0C31eU4ucoI_-JdcF1OfTBanYH9I/s1600/71936347_10156469562932665_8845160343505207296_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikutCjm6_AflObGZpFUBzZ7MYragHQGeI9raU5tYZ2HVN4Xo_k4yfKCiAvOrNnWf2DSqS7PmzZsKVDyf3_KP7ljB0aywXIbD5sbjSXWZgspkCa9PJd0C31eU4ucoI_-JdcF1OfTBanYH9I/s200/71936347_10156469562932665_8845160343505207296_n.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>
She stayed at the pharmacy while I then drove through the maze back to the record store to get Chris and return. He was waiting outside when I arrived with a cache of new sounds. Upon retrieving L from the pharmacy and we returned to the Millvale area to eat and browse some breweries. On the return trip, L (feeling a bit better) is in the backseat questioning the route I was taking. I give her the stink eye via the rear view mirror and after a second inquisition as to the direction I was taking, Chris chimed in, <i>"I think he knows where he's going considering this is the fourth time he's taken this route in the last hour."</i><br />
<br />
Letting what Chris said sink in, L realized she could relax as I was now familiar with the surroundings. She sheepishly smiles and adds, "Um...<i>Love You!"</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
We stopped by <i><a href="http://www.strangerootsbeer.com/">Strange Roots Experimental Ales</a> </i>for some food and drink first. While there I messaged Dan and while he wouldn't be at Grist House till much later, he thought it was way cool I had found his place by total accident and offered some suggestion as to what we should try while there. We stopped by and sampled somethings before heading out to a place L had wanted to visit, <i><a href="http://www.hopfarmbrewingco.com/">Hop Farm Brewing</a>, </i>a cool pub a bit hidden way.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUb4e7ORzfAyW9yqr2QUxwCPjRi73zUTY4x6B6rOfWv6LLClOAQtw8Hxwx1e7jMyFOf6XyloRj64xg40LVMzTjBOTPnOszJp0jFGgz5LYDVO0dwN8q1Eyw3U6KpEsC0ZNTl8ZcH8b96MPn/s1600/56285259_10157705498878274_1493632004544004096_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="960" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUb4e7ORzfAyW9yqr2QUxwCPjRi73zUTY4x6B6rOfWv6LLClOAQtw8Hxwx1e7jMyFOf6XyloRj64xg40LVMzTjBOTPnOszJp0jFGgz5LYDVO0dwN8q1Eyw3U6KpEsC0ZNTl8ZcH8b96MPn/s200/56285259_10157705498878274_1493632004544004096_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>Shortly thereafter, we drove back to Steubenville listening to a portion of Chris' new collection of music with some Pittsburgh area beers for future enjoyment. Along the way Dan apologized for missing us at his place, but did say we needed to meet up the next time he made it back to the Columbus area. I, too, let him know we would coordinate a return with him in the near future as well.<br />
<br />
As always, the trip turned out to be much more than we bargained for. Seriously, who wouldn't enjoy vintage music, beer, urgent care visits and restaurant/pharmacy bathrooms?<br />
<br />
Well look at that, it is finally fall and the <a href="https://www.columbusmarathon.com/">40th Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon & 1/2 Marathon</a> has returned. I will be taking part in my third half marathon portion of this event. It had gotten a bit cool as of late, but it isn't that it has been out of the ordinary. It's just that it was summer-like warm for much longer than we expected and the sudden change to what it <i>should</i> fee like was quick and surprising. This meant we would have real fall weather for the event, bringing back fond memories of those high school and collegiate cross country seasons of the past.<br />
<br />
If you haven't taken part in this event, the start is an awesome blood pumping experience as<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2AC41dglnM"><i> AC/DC's Thunderstruck</i></a> blares - shaking you to your core - as the final minutes count down to the gun time. </div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: left; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s1600/Final+Sport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s200/Final+Sport.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>**We back EVERY pair with </i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><a href="https://shadyrays.com/pages/official-live-hard-warranty-overview" style="color: #de7008;">FREE Replacements</a> if Lost or Broken</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>**</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: right; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s1600/DH4A7305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s200/DH4A7305.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>**Each order also secures 11 meals </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>to fight hunger through </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b><a href="http://fabackup.feedingamerica.org/optimized-homepage/?_ga=2.251139073.647855481.1504895789-1536808043.1504895789" style="color: #de7008;">Feeding America</a>**</b></i><o:p></o:p><br />
<div>
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div>
<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><b style="background-color: transparent;">We are an independent sunglasses company </b><span style="background-color: transparent;">for those who don't want to buy from a massive, faceless company that has been operating the same way for decades </span></b></b></div>
<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
</b></div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://shadyrays.com/" style="color: #de7008;">shadyrays.com</a></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdeh5n_ptryE-q_D0wSthOU5T0WAgHJCDFEvGlqINS3Nn5Y0je2AEUmKllNN_9jutvAeIyEdNvBqC9JThVfV2xorZZsSGVJOoOyxNvAp3IkrCatF275iAuv_aJK9GIK7Ge4okwqxNoelG/s1600/shady+rays.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdeh5n_ptryE-q_D0wSthOU5T0WAgHJCDFEvGlqINS3Nn5Y0je2AEUmKllNN_9jutvAeIyEdNvBqC9JThVfV2xorZZsSGVJOoOyxNvAp3IkrCatF275iAuv_aJK9GIK7Ge4okwqxNoelG/s1600/shady+rays.png" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
In just my second attempt at a half marathon in 2017, I finished 303 out of 9,633 in 1:37:06. Last year, I re-aggravated a calf strain at mile ten and finished 136 out of 9,112 in 1:27:16. Having eclipsed the 1:24 barrier last April, could I come close to that here in 2019? At the very least, the weather would cooperate as we had a cool breeze and a 50 degree temperature to kick us off. In the corral, a handful of familiar faces are ready to take off with me.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilIP4EksCMyVPuZQyUfCZAg9XHTBhyphenhyphenitazLxJfwzlHrfFlYWH3qBu0nkvkYbAcqPtKdRr7Oqv-AkcWNju8GEVV6NoupJYMKszu4Pa0H7gfbWAdQ5m1STYiFe3g8DrpgIR4-1L3GEB9_uiM/s1600/routy+route.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="489" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilIP4EksCMyVPuZQyUfCZAg9XHTBhyphenhyphenitazLxJfwzlHrfFlYWH3qBu0nkvkYbAcqPtKdRr7Oqv-AkcWNju8GEVV6NoupJYMKszu4Pa0H7gfbWAdQ5m1STYiFe3g8DrpgIR4-1L3GEB9_uiM/s200/routy+route.jpg" width="200" /></a>From the outset I worked my way out of the glut of competitors and made it to the outside to get the legs moving. I didn't feel like I was going to fast, but the legs were loose and I was comfortable. Making our way to Broad Street I find a small group to tag along with and at mile one I was surprised with a 6:02. Typically, way to fast for mile one but I didn't feel as if it was - I would be slowing down a bit in the coming miles but everything was feeling good.<br />
<br />
Approaching mile, two and suddenly from my left side I hear, <i>"Hey, congrats on the wedding!"</i><br />
Its CRC Westerville Teammate Jared who we haven't seen much of lately as he and his wife have been busy with a pair of small children. We exchange a handful of wedding related comments and continue on. He is usually much faster than I, so I attempt to keep him within eyesight for as long as I can. The next three miles on the long straight stretch are fluid <i>(6:17, 6:16, 6:19) </i>and those I have chosen to follow are still nearby. Though Jared is much further ahead, but I can at least see him.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1EKcGUCGKsUOV6iDQvbsW-sNo_stYZTV5ZdSv6AOxkrMnQ4x1bdYbenfvjIpinAZJvIrWoarXnlPLbgI3kpi8OhZaluLtgussRfQsBqZO1n5dqUAdISOqza8WxJxSSZ4-MHS0lFlXfzV/s1600/Craig+%25233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="289" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1EKcGUCGKsUOV6iDQvbsW-sNo_stYZTV5ZdSv6AOxkrMnQ4x1bdYbenfvjIpinAZJvIrWoarXnlPLbgI3kpi8OhZaluLtgussRfQsBqZO1n5dqUAdISOqza8WxJxSSZ4-MHS0lFlXfzV/s320/Craig+%25233.jpg" width="214" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Look hard, the guy on the left is looking<br />directly in the camera and smiling. I<br />hate him.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Making sure to alternate water & Gatorade at the fuel stations seems to be paying off. It isn't too hot, or too cold and it isn't breezy - the conditions are perfect. It now comes down to physical make-up and mindset. Just before mile five I see an onlooker cross the course through a decent sized gap between runners from left to right. The onlooker then turns back to the course, start his watch and joins in along side me - it's CRC Westerville Teammate John who is there as a spectator.<br />
<br />
<i>"I thought I'd join you for few minutes. How are ya feelin'!"</i>, he asks.<br />
<br />
<i>"I'm feeling good, can't complain at the moment", </i>I reply as it was a nice boost to the ego to have a familiar face join to help pace along with.<br />
After a couple of minutes of chit chat, <i>"Man, you are going too fast for me."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i> </i>Jokingly, <i>"I'm sorry, I can slow down for you,"</i><br />
He laughs<i>, "Oh, no. Don't do that, you are doing good. I'm going to drop back and run along with some others </i>(teammates)<i>. Good luck."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
I nod and he trails off course. At mile five I'm at 6:22 and the handful of folks I've attempted to tag along with are a bit further ahead. Working through my mechanics and reviewing the familiar course in my head, I attempt to determine how to navigate the second half (<i>mile six: 6:20</i>). A bit of an incline covers mile seven and I'm trailing off a bit <i>(6:35),</i> but this is typical for me - just as long as the ensuing miles don't also trail off.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYq5eN377se92qWo1wNWRKFqGfXvV9ZGAI1IuFi1-e3lQ7XfLe_TyJ-kBxJv1sHOWrkJgnP-7OAP_23EEiB37jmOzW2Wgx295ga2gZTv-X5-2RgK3p8pRnsza8LB9-tGaLC3O9Y5CKDTe/s1600/Craig+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="297" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYq5eN377se92qWo1wNWRKFqGfXvV9ZGAI1IuFi1-e3lQ7XfLe_TyJ-kBxJv1sHOWrkJgnP-7OAP_23EEiB37jmOzW2Wgx295ga2gZTv-X5-2RgK3p8pRnsza8LB9-tGaLC3O9Y5CKDTe/s320/Craig+%25232.jpg" width="218" /></a>I'm able to make it up the next two miles <i>(6:27, 6:24) </i>I'm now working on tagging along with a couple of stronger runners as we tackle the final 5K <i>(6:30). </i>I catch a glimpse of L and hear, <i>"Keep it up, your at PR pace!"</i> Around <i><a href="https://www.columbus.gov/recreationandparks/parks/Schiller-Park/">Schiller Park</a> </i>we go<i> </i>and what has been my demise the last two years comes into view - the long, rolling hill straight stretch back north along High Street. They aren't huge inclines by any means, but from a distant the horizon looks intimidating. In the past, this is where everyone and their brother passes me.<br />
<br />
Tired, I put my head down and work my elbows through my knees, looking up occasionally to gauge how far those I'm trailing are ahead of me. I've slowed significantly, but fewer folks are drifting by than in previous years along miles 11 & 12 <i>(6:37, 6:45). </i>The mile thirteen downhill is a welcome sight as I let the legs and arms flow free and the half marathon & marathon split becomes visible.<br />
<br />
Not to make fun, but I can't imagine running past the split and watching folks turn to finish the half marathon while I still have another 13.1 miles to navigate. This would be psychological torture for me, kudos to those who tackle the full marathon. It just isn't my thing.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc0RnFAj2W6QXtIof042nO5nZ8ZEr4LQtKxioVirGQg6gO1gl8TgUOTd6OaVooLdLCk1aeK7ibcbg9-7WJtwkHLvgXKzRmi3yG2J34Rjfs7s47dsArk3HnbH-mHZI0pdXA6NQcLiLT7RLb/s1600/Craig%25231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="443" data-original-width="299" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc0RnFAj2W6QXtIof042nO5nZ8ZEr4LQtKxioVirGQg6gO1gl8TgUOTd6OaVooLdLCk1aeK7ibcbg9-7WJtwkHLvgXKzRmi3yG2J34Rjfs7s47dsArk3HnbH-mHZI0pdXA6NQcLiLT7RLb/s320/Craig%25231.jpg" width="215" /></a>Turning left through the split and I attempt to keep my final mile momentum (<i>6:27),</i> cruising through the finish at <i><a href="https://www.mtecresults.com/runner/show?rid=19000&race=8123">1:24:57 - good enough for 94th overall and 6th in my age group.</a> </i>There would be no overall PR this time, but it was for this course by 2 1/2 minutes. A much better result at an event that has not been my friend the last two years. My favorite number is regarding the <i>Passed </i>&<i> Passed By </i>statistics this race tabulates. These numbers are taken at the 7k mark, the 15k mark and the finish. Most important in my opinion are the number of those who <i>Passed By </i>me in the last segment. In 2017, that number was 73, in 2018 it was 13 and this year it was 9.<br />
<br />
Upon finishing L and I made our way home and had planned to go out later on in the day, but instead we crashed. Both of us fell asleep for a while, then simply watched football the rest of the afternoon. We don't know if it was because we had been up since 6am, or because we had spent the entire day before visiting <a href="https://www.hockinghills.com/rock_bridge.html"><i>Rock Bridge State Nature Preserve</i></a> and <i><a href="http://www.double-edge.beer/">Double Edge Brewing Company.</a> </i>Either way, it made for a long - yet fun - weekend.<br />
<br />
With the <a href="https://www.timeanddate.com/time/change/usa"><i>Daylight Saving Time for 2019</i></a> coming to an end, we are now digging out those headlamps, flashlights and reflective vests - not to mention the hats, gloves and tights. And the CRC Tuesday Night Track group has only a few more meet-ups left before calling it quits for the season. I missed the most recent one due to the struggle to get there on time and with enough daylight. The <i><a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/2019/10/15/top-moments-tuesdays-democratic-debate/3991377002/">October 15th Democratic Presidential Debate</a></i> took place at <i><a href="https://www.otterbein.edu/">Otterbein University</a>, </i>just two miles from our track workout location and getting there would have been impossible, so I did my own work out at the middle school near our house instead.</div>
<div>
<br />
No need to be sad, seasons change and lucky enough they return as well. We all need a deep freeze to renew and rejuvenate ourselves. It's the only way we can come back stronger, stronger than ever before...<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wsbR2dEmHGc"><i>The Beta Band - Dry The Rain</i><o:p></o:p></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>This is the definition of my life<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Lying in bed in the sunlight<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Choking on the vitamin tablet<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The doctor gave in the hope of saving me<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>In the hope of saving me<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Walked in the corner of the room<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>A junk yard fool with eyes of gloom<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I asked him time again<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Take me in and dry the rain<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Take me in and dry the rain<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Take me in and dry the rain<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Take me in and dry the rain the rain<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The rain the rain the rain now<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dusty brown boots in the corner<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>By the ironing board<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Spray on dust is the greatest thing<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Sure is the greatest thing<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Since the last since the last<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Walked in the corner of the room<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>A junk yard fool with eyes of gloom<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I asked him time again<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Take me in and dry the rain<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Take me in and dry the rain<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Take me in and dry the rain<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Take me in and dry the rain the rain<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The rain the rain the rain now<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I asked him time again<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Take me in and dry the rain<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Take me in and dry the rain<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Take me in and dry the rain<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Take me in and dry the rain<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The rain the rain the rain now<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>If there's something inside that you want to say<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Say it out loud it'll be okay<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>If there's something inside that you want to say<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Say it out loud it'll be okay<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I Need Love, yeah<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I Need Love<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>If there's something inside that you want to say<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Say it out loud it'll be okay<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>If there's something inside that you want to say<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Say it out loud it'll be okay<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I will be your light<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I need love<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I need love</i><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<i><b>Photos by L and I</b></i><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjVpnEEpcc-TwHhyphenhyphenrulhGXk0y_OBKdVBY4cA0yQYu9Eg0Y_oiKuhnWEDSxRvHWt7yXx_S2pOt0x08P8AFBFBCg9E-XilfS1NO2endfHHYbAF39H0iQ28sTTD97ZCH2UDsBmWFcq7YAFghz/s1600/thumbnail_20191012_174504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjVpnEEpcc-TwHhyphenhyphenrulhGXk0y_OBKdVBY4cA0yQYu9Eg0Y_oiKuhnWEDSxRvHWt7yXx_S2pOt0x08P8AFBFBCg9E-XilfS1NO2endfHHYbAF39H0iQ28sTTD97ZCH2UDsBmWFcq7YAFghz/s320/thumbnail_20191012_174504.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>A portion of Grist House's outside venue <br />as renovations are taking place</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8vk6UwP4zgws4b-xD9znQXwUfblKhHbb5806PveZukpsV_aoQ8T-RWeo46PAY4tWSJTtJkkOvqULPd-coBR-0cCDToNK4SsMhhHMrwc77H249ivNA5EK3MbG5FH1DdkimDJXnjy3J7Aho/s1600/thumbnail_20191012_173451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8vk6UwP4zgws4b-xD9znQXwUfblKhHbb5806PveZukpsV_aoQ8T-RWeo46PAY4tWSJTtJkkOvqULPd-coBR-0cCDToNK4SsMhhHMrwc77H249ivNA5EK3MbG5FH1DdkimDJXnjy3J7Aho/s320/thumbnail_20191012_173451.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_LUFyMX3wV6soF8I4cwG6q_360BQLjfKrivXcd8tAcuzThnWtewJKV9B2_KoYvjC2zhVZRMuZKPYwne9Isz0Q-Wc1FA7_pNhO2Q14CAxZGA-cWkkriGAKDdwEVaiKbgQME8SLY65YusK5/s1600/thumbnail_20191012_164026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_LUFyMX3wV6soF8I4cwG6q_360BQLjfKrivXcd8tAcuzThnWtewJKV9B2_KoYvjC2zhVZRMuZKPYwne9Isz0Q-Wc1FA7_pNhO2Q14CAxZGA-cWkkriGAKDdwEVaiKbgQME8SLY65YusK5/s320/thumbnail_20191012_164026.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>At Strange Roots Experimental Ales</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinkeR2XEkPXWgS7dixmbBIakY3EAy6Cpqv11eVdLK__Vb66gIku7HGpLKXnPFjX2unxCDiMLRMJNb8ajo0MCs98QonlJEZRs9j73DwtykpDKr1L8uBG26t4Y4SiYMETDdc7Vd9N6OkIRI0/s1600/thumbnail_20191012_164015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinkeR2XEkPXWgS7dixmbBIakY3EAy6Cpqv11eVdLK__Vb66gIku7HGpLKXnPFjX2unxCDiMLRMJNb8ajo0MCs98QonlJEZRs9j73DwtykpDKr1L8uBG26t4Y4SiYMETDdc7Vd9N6OkIRI0/s320/thumbnail_20191012_164015.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>At Strange Roots Experimental Ales</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIV4pm9ntJnej0RReDEitkm0mgX9RUfLYxAqgEC1Ynltqu00wd7POkRCmWPaDOIrYpBpfN3u8N6piNaiJjmGvw-2EecArfzS6wHGxqOXXK9MDWC5i0051Y2hZ8_gg1f3UTM3aCEhSSaIxd/s1600/72441948_10156467497992665_8155215152103292928_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIV4pm9ntJnej0RReDEitkm0mgX9RUfLYxAqgEC1Ynltqu00wd7POkRCmWPaDOIrYpBpfN3u8N6piNaiJjmGvw-2EecArfzS6wHGxqOXXK9MDWC5i0051Y2hZ8_gg1f3UTM3aCEhSSaIxd/s320/72441948_10156467497992665_8155215152103292928_n.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Fun stuff from Hightower Brewing:<br />An Imperial IPA</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBF82Nfbk5Im2HqOOZ1A-5JRelbR5zjqXkRssmULgRV_v0a382UxUSs-DrwMrHsEf0k_53AUq0MQkhAORiKNgWYv8ODKdicIHx-6W1Hul83YqEIeMxxZIt2lketOoOmiRiNdeFWsbd_-69/s1600/72477620_10156467268652665_5402611001969344512_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBF82Nfbk5Im2HqOOZ1A-5JRelbR5zjqXkRssmULgRV_v0a382UxUSs-DrwMrHsEf0k_53AUq0MQkhAORiKNgWYv8ODKdicIHx-6W1Hul83YqEIeMxxZIt2lketOoOmiRiNdeFWsbd_-69/s320/72477620_10156467268652665_5402611001969344512_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>At Hightower Brewing in Rayland, Ohio</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQsVVnFFbF8mWkjY6FCa2hK4mYtwrz-mmOQIut8CmrOvxVgAck_Z4yNAGtuWhPYO9306oSFmt7z-LhThtmcoHWQwYa1Ha1PrsjwPDgDIyeRSHIlpikulMLzRE2swzVa6JlHOlm2c6Yowm2/s1600/72546087_10156469773087665_8181985855057952768_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="714" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQsVVnFFbF8mWkjY6FCa2hK4mYtwrz-mmOQIut8CmrOvxVgAck_Z4yNAGtuWhPYO9306oSFmt7z-LhThtmcoHWQwYa1Ha1PrsjwPDgDIyeRSHIlpikulMLzRE2swzVa6JlHOlm2c6Yowm2/s320/72546087_10156469773087665_8181985855057952768_n.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>A black Saison at Hop Farm Brewing</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTIzD6PQuDQf1CCQTCJtZdGYi9YF-klDkueHeP4FArpiaEZ2CWQ84vuyUAQKVNqBdhTrha3xKgGIBjFz8OexSwfDsj9uC9C45DPfwW4vCn2_elyYTXFM8XYsEhA9mUu0kwO8UQDt2f_9o7/s1600/72665660_10156478334432665_6335293786297466880_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTIzD6PQuDQf1CCQTCJtZdGYi9YF-klDkueHeP4FArpiaEZ2CWQ84vuyUAQKVNqBdhTrha3xKgGIBjFz8OexSwfDsj9uC9C45DPfwW4vCn2_elyYTXFM8XYsEhA9mUu0kwO8UQDt2f_9o7/s320/72665660_10156478334432665_6335293786297466880_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>A blackberry, mango fruited sour.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxmYGseYWE91AiDuK4tAGTrM-RSkcBr-XuyPetXbpqzBYRsH-WH7iCgD9CyA_V4O3OGDOIWO3jJtLksYZ1pmRaVEe-czdFeM0EtTKT81u9Rz2TajARmvMc2glOSvzw9mnFqQmmiQt2loL/s1600/72649420_698750810627274_8268865527263264768_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxmYGseYWE91AiDuK4tAGTrM-RSkcBr-XuyPetXbpqzBYRsH-WH7iCgD9CyA_V4O3OGDOIWO3jJtLksYZ1pmRaVEe-czdFeM0EtTKT81u9Rz2TajARmvMc2glOSvzw9mnFqQmmiQt2loL/s320/72649420_698750810627274_8268865527263264768_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Race photos by L</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgShs7bLVt1EJI2b1ueIgN2fZyOaIC90gmARFR8xJhS5R_oyzyW-JdEZ_858U6bR8iFARzU2UNT15QQYVi6QI1wHPTdZPNWsFtX6HcExudc0EQfdlkkDvbOOUreHfBrXaTgb3jPoGW6easX/s1600/72843919_433926297266854_8136709181701881856_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgShs7bLVt1EJI2b1ueIgN2fZyOaIC90gmARFR8xJhS5R_oyzyW-JdEZ_858U6bR8iFARzU2UNT15QQYVi6QI1wHPTdZPNWsFtX6HcExudc0EQfdlkkDvbOOUreHfBrXaTgb3jPoGW6easX/s320/72843919_433926297266854_8136709181701881856_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b>Race photos by L</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdfrVGhNjngzziOds9yBR1q58eKh2e4mjeAmpS5_VK_PIXsl3s-5h1amkD8bIWU4sOBZfF9iB282asnlq2B4XgjPXKleX_SdlcY0i-XHI0vx32CmeywPFzRxsgh8u2pS3-Lz1LKC-7Ajwz/s1600/73083634_689050074923532_6456387176572649472_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdfrVGhNjngzziOds9yBR1q58eKh2e4mjeAmpS5_VK_PIXsl3s-5h1amkD8bIWU4sOBZfF9iB282asnlq2B4XgjPXKleX_SdlcY0i-XHI0vx32CmeywPFzRxsgh8u2pS3-Lz1LKC-7Ajwz/s320/73083634_689050074923532_6456387176572649472_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i><b>Race photos by L</b></i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpXhdIc8N3tIHWBETG74QoboDTzTnzV9TRO9USt8nYzOC7e0P2c9iVNf4pbna3mxwqlybfGX6vhqDJwx2RRUnHcnuJ_ScGLscc4uaJGyRFXzAd80v0leOuLo24ALuPP9rkOdawyiRRr99y/s1600/73404068_393226104899834_8422809803830591488_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpXhdIc8N3tIHWBETG74QoboDTzTnzV9TRO9USt8nYzOC7e0P2c9iVNf4pbna3mxwqlybfGX6vhqDJwx2RRUnHcnuJ_ScGLscc4uaJGyRFXzAd80v0leOuLo24ALuPP9rkOdawyiRRr99y/s320/73404068_393226104899834_8422809803830591488_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b>Race photos by L</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_pMuo09PGA39KhG8Dhs6LD_nXbCeX-_-wb6K7zoBGMIOmt9VWGTr-G4-qnFIOXFvpBHpEpIgTNJMVyBjycFeqxzIfuHoUj54BGpAsxONyj0pkCyfEXDPnVVzUPp6l881veWoHd28SZSpH/s1600/72676809_10156490653682665_9222399248237068288_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_pMuo09PGA39KhG8Dhs6LD_nXbCeX-_-wb6K7zoBGMIOmt9VWGTr-G4-qnFIOXFvpBHpEpIgTNJMVyBjycFeqxzIfuHoUj54BGpAsxONyj0pkCyfEXDPnVVzUPp6l881veWoHd28SZSpH/s320/72676809_10156490653682665_9222399248237068288_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i><b>At Rock Bridge State Nature Preserve</b></i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozf2-Y98bgTcPTY3YtFLNM3H0VV53iA4FmXPJyX_Grdv2jbTCWiXxf_CWcHUzynX_R1vl-cKg2eySajCr1223YV2xTkWE_X4RGpCsWuPuErUJfKDwTnaC1ca3dMLj8z9busIw_uig1s1P/s1600/72688064_10156490654047665_3398304723051216896_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozf2-Y98bgTcPTY3YtFLNM3H0VV53iA4FmXPJyX_Grdv2jbTCWiXxf_CWcHUzynX_R1vl-cKg2eySajCr1223YV2xTkWE_X4RGpCsWuPuErUJfKDwTnaC1ca3dMLj8z9busIw_uig1s1P/s320/72688064_10156490654047665_3398304723051216896_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b><i>At Rock Bridge State Nature Preserve</i></b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQBJ8ux51dXQ5qgCZ_QPeLeU1d6tUxyco4QRSWXq68W-HodgxDaONB58i9hTulnMustWjr5E66gUKP5Ty2IKs2kAgbnvSJEgL_d31XU1yENq-HGIwtHZc8gJ9g46xh0kxYH7NV-e3KXhe/s1600/72886913_10156490653552665_4387913489251827712_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQBJ8ux51dXQ5qgCZ_QPeLeU1d6tUxyco4QRSWXq68W-HodgxDaONB58i9hTulnMustWjr5E66gUKP5Ty2IKs2kAgbnvSJEgL_d31XU1yENq-HGIwtHZc8gJ9g46xh0kxYH7NV-e3KXhe/s320/72886913_10156490653552665_4387913489251827712_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b><i>At Rock Bridge State Nature Preserve</i></b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibnRRAeHk-yn4to5qJTF6mq6_8JR476iKJ3QyE1gqxSOJogZpy7enOQrleHzenDKAvud0aYMMb1nRKz5EUblT0fK2m5gVZo7CaSyAhCZe6lZETG5aG7UXkCg-AAulWyQQ6bu2je2d_byRp/s1600/73199901_387258828895725_4337560752962404352_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibnRRAeHk-yn4to5qJTF6mq6_8JR476iKJ3QyE1gqxSOJogZpy7enOQrleHzenDKAvud0aYMMb1nRKz5EUblT0fK2m5gVZo7CaSyAhCZe6lZETG5aG7UXkCg-AAulWyQQ6bu2je2d_byRp/s320/73199901_387258828895725_4337560752962404352_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b><i>At Rock Bridge State Nature Preserve</i></b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6J7MiojZA68BB6e0oQAKX5GgDYQU4-eLnX2-1hT2mQ9V2-xa1bHv1TKUdEWM8kzCOEqNvn42TWWxV9qrlyNfASq_zfN-z-wZlbfCY3ejoZpLD3Q83Migx5ZYpzjY6WMUpb6tay8Pm_NAk/s1600/73475124_10156490653422665_4913592940544131072_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6J7MiojZA68BB6e0oQAKX5GgDYQU4-eLnX2-1hT2mQ9V2-xa1bHv1TKUdEWM8kzCOEqNvn42TWWxV9qrlyNfASq_zfN-z-wZlbfCY3ejoZpLD3Q83Migx5ZYpzjY6WMUpb6tay8Pm_NAk/s320/73475124_10156490653422665_4913592940544131072_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b><i>At Rock Bridge State Nature Preserve</i></b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGAP7MQ2-mnceSd-6xNL_gFilzOt6mryD32OpMXI_eobK2H1NcJB5mDI_571LtT-EmGz8zTxK6r03V-h790PSKIvIbLOVet6Z_Elhld0wg15zpVrM3HuOXsPqrDybJVL8W4ty9Gzo3B-Sd/s1600/74238099_778519489286280_2337943023553347584_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGAP7MQ2-mnceSd-6xNL_gFilzOt6mryD32OpMXI_eobK2H1NcJB5mDI_571LtT-EmGz8zTxK6r03V-h790PSKIvIbLOVet6Z_Elhld0wg15zpVrM3HuOXsPqrDybJVL8W4ty9Gzo3B-Sd/s320/74238099_778519489286280_2337943023553347584_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b><i>At Rock Bridge State Nature Preserv</i></b>e</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0BzmlCDpNQN8D2qNc1ivBcUIsybUg4xVfGpFz2V8Gjm3kyR9LuQmYDPGlRX6Ft0Uur6Y7GPKBgr7hxtyPCgk0W5knVou6-ku92MdGXSihJdDaIgxwVRQbJJqibHaSM_yNcQWJjkuZzDyd/s1600/74338564_10156490654377665_7447170697933094912_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0BzmlCDpNQN8D2qNc1ivBcUIsybUg4xVfGpFz2V8Gjm3kyR9LuQmYDPGlRX6Ft0Uur6Y7GPKBgr7hxtyPCgk0W5knVou6-ku92MdGXSihJdDaIgxwVRQbJJqibHaSM_yNcQWJjkuZzDyd/s320/74338564_10156490654377665_7447170697933094912_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b><i>At Rock Bridge State Nature Preserve</i></b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYsWxO8iaqeT5zTb5X8WFOgs9gMe8VmDpoqrvrP9_O9AjUwawxIp1KEERw9NhEFk4usSSToiNwum1DgOii-SzOojfHBeTuD4LT1iXn4rtPPKaLctQoYkMZxCGjaUbFyBo2waaUcECaEu0z/s1600/74428421_10156490651842665_4013301846079700992_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYsWxO8iaqeT5zTb5X8WFOgs9gMe8VmDpoqrvrP9_O9AjUwawxIp1KEERw9NhEFk4usSSToiNwum1DgOii-SzOojfHBeTuD4LT1iXn4rtPPKaLctQoYkMZxCGjaUbFyBo2waaUcECaEu0z/s320/74428421_10156490651842665_4013301846079700992_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>At Rock Bridge State Nature Preserve</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS0MKbSjIu6lTtUfng_n2EgwruIG1jjjCqDMobt_omGKET1f1QL5UoSNj_j6k101sVWEa1a1Rcxulg6Aj-xPW74xfCTW_WxGRGQgZe3b-PWLPOnYRuypnCaekIqx-CmxK3_jQLiTqtmxz4/s1600/73219339_10156498720607665_1887829772327714816_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS0MKbSjIu6lTtUfng_n2EgwruIG1jjjCqDMobt_omGKET1f1QL5UoSNj_j6k101sVWEa1a1Rcxulg6Aj-xPW74xfCTW_WxGRGQgZe3b-PWLPOnYRuypnCaekIqx-CmxK3_jQLiTqtmxz4/s320/73219339_10156498720607665_1887829772327714816_n.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Double Edge Brewing Rustic Sunrise<br />Coffee Blonde Ale in a Random Precision<br />Brewing Glass.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK1DZ6RxMc_Uad7fGcrgvzXTHQ3z9o6L8M4ApwzodQGT4-5RWgF2QBZZdC6LrN6FGQhwO5DStl8-MVP-quPssABIv1GMtEtglIOacvuJOb_nQrLQgHB-BM_eRM05DZkjMRl50nI1fmBGW6/s1600/73136852_10156490043832665_1511511734353920000_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK1DZ6RxMc_Uad7fGcrgvzXTHQ3z9o6L8M4ApwzodQGT4-5RWgF2QBZZdC6LrN6FGQhwO5DStl8-MVP-quPssABIv1GMtEtglIOacvuJOb_nQrLQgHB-BM_eRM05DZkjMRl50nI1fmBGW6/s320/73136852_10156490043832665_1511511734353920000_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A<b><i>t Double Edge Brewing Company</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><br /></i></div>
</div>
Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-48067221344340230222019-10-02T13:23:00.000-04:002019-10-02T22:26:08.370-04:00Alcoholic Pervert Bakers Need Not Apply<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;">It is hard to believe the summer is over, though even more hard to believe what we dubbed </span><i style="text-align: left;">The Wedding Summer </i><span style="text-align: left;">went so fast. Our garden is on it's last leg and despite the wedding taking place a month ago, it sounds weird to refer to L as my wife. What seemed so far away, came and went in a flash. </span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPkMgJwgKXZHxlyYxcKTpqHM6JBsfSFGAcNiOUDI6oIhaBj40sniRARCCnIJxbYwtkbDDWcaY3zE__7i_O-5UU-TdXe3mgl4Jlu_k7hAstKjhT7KJpi8gg73OnG1NmbplwbqvjYuMRNPm/s1600/Baking+Job+ad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="571" data-original-width="504" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTPkMgJwgKXZHxlyYxcKTpqHM6JBsfSFGAcNiOUDI6oIhaBj40sniRARCCnIJxbYwtkbDDWcaY3zE__7i_O-5UU-TdXe3mgl4Jlu_k7hAstKjhT7KJpi8gg73OnG1NmbplwbqvjYuMRNPm/s320/Baking+Job+ad.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Are you serious!? My UAPB Local 69 <br />(United Alcoholic Pervert Bakers) is going<br /> to hear about this, believe you me!!</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So back to reality and moving back into a new old routine
and, of course, a dose of normal life returns with flying colors. A bakery near
my place of employment posted a job opening for a night baker. This ad has
everything you would expect from someone working as a baker or, at the very
least, an apprentice baker. Though, the owner/operators of this establishment
apparently have had a rough time finding folks who are way more interested in
life outside of baking.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The requirements for prospective candidates included that <i>"no alcoholics or perverts need apply". </i>Now, this is funny - probably not all that funny to those running this establishment - but it does make you wonder as to what has taken place in the past or the mind frame of the folks they may have hired in recent years. If I were about 10 years younger, I would more than likely apply for this position as my interest in food and cooking is on the high end. Luckily, I would fit every requested requirement for the position (<i>a congratulatory</i> <i>fist pump ensues).</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I humor myself by imagining group of offended professional and amateur bakers joining forces in a prejudicial lawsuit claiming no one has ever been harmed by a baker with a dirty mind who drinks hourly - <i>but yet</i> - can produce a flawless <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/croquembouche"><i>croquembouche</i></a>?! Seriously, what tastes better then a French Wedding Cake made with love, liquor cabinet lubrication and a little BDSM?!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But I digress...a<span style="text-align: justify;">s for L and I, we are now working on evolving as a married couple. I laughed at myself the other day when L's parents came down for a visit and thought,</span><i style="text-align: justify;"> "Wow, these are my in-laws?!" </i><span style="text-align: justify;">Not that I wouldn't want them to be, but referring to anyone as an </span><i style="text-align: justify;">in-law </i><span style="text-align: justify;">will take some getting used to. So what was the first real thing we did as husband and wife? We went to a Reds game!</span></div>
<div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8S6gvaTzq2xAnAYPQbp0_xCNVjH7MSOlrqsPlX9XgMN8Eg22AUx46uAJRVsr8fS0XmLUllc85thQdp99Y9UvvRRyNRah9QVByP0WkYWZ2dcOunrE8yttgiBA87Ym4k9h5OO9MNf0R9HjH/s1600/70219009_10156385660342665_2808615819368464384_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8S6gvaTzq2xAnAYPQbp0_xCNVjH7MSOlrqsPlX9XgMN8Eg22AUx46uAJRVsr8fS0XmLUllc85thQdp99Y9UvvRRyNRah9QVByP0WkYWZ2dcOunrE8yttgiBA87Ym4k9h5OO9MNf0R9HjH/s320/70219009_10156385660342665_2808615819368464384_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>A perfect day along third base line at GABP</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Having found a weekend where we were both free of prior engagements, L found some great seats at <i><a href="https://www.mlb.com/reds/ballpark">Great American Ball Park</a>. </i>It was also quite special as the voice of the Cincinnati Reds for my entire lifetime, <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marty_Brennaman">Marty Brennaman</a></i>, was finishing his final season behind the mic. Sure, we wouldn't hear him call the game from inside the stadium, but it was the premise of being there - at least once - in his final season.</div>
<div>
<br />
<div>
Though the Reds lost 2-0 to the Diamondbacks, it was a blast to be back at GABP for the first time in over a decade. We ate, had a few Cincinnati beers and enjoyed ourselves immensely. The game was <i>actually</i> a game as the Reds had a chance to win it down to the final out. We had great pitching, but on this day we couldn't hit a beach ball with a tennis racket - it was very frustrating.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As we walked into the stadium, there as a glut of people that seemed to be stagnant, not moving in any one direction. Forcing our way through the mass toward our gate, it became clear as to what was causing the pedestrian traffic jam....it was Marty! He was taking photos with people during pre-game as we were walking by and the line to do so was a mile long. This photo will do for me, I was in no mood to stand line at the moment because - well - I would be standing in line for everything else (food, drink, a urinal) as the game evolved.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitZDPWJZKHesGXXUOGZNN1v8ptPBE9zj6_QfCDenLEYxA1z8Q9FCq0ekzID9oYWghJF78nOqfqJHpv2Fr6KlM4WttCNy50ruKzv6WdL8nPm-DDzZSyAMUPqi13KxqLZqp-IcI-yxnbrAjF/s1600/69688343_10156385649927665_8345559439712976896_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitZDPWJZKHesGXXUOGZNN1v8ptPBE9zj6_QfCDenLEYxA1z8Q9FCq0ekzID9oYWghJF78nOqfqJHpv2Fr6KlM4WttCNy50ruKzv6WdL8nPm-DDzZSyAMUPqi13KxqLZqp-IcI-yxnbrAjF/s320/69688343_10156385649927665_8345559439712976896_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Marty!!</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Over the last few years Marty has had some folks fill-in from time to time and even taking a few innings off during games, but it will be different not hearing him at all during broadcasts next year. There are some folks who aren't fans of his, usually because he tells it like it is. He's not an all out rah-rah guy. If the Reds are playing awful...that's exactly what you will hear. If they could be playing better, he will tell you. If they are playing well, you will know it. It was a pleasure to have someone put what is actually taking place on the field into the correct descriptive terms and not sugarcoat it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Marty will be missed and will be taking with him my childhood of Pete Rose's 4,192nd hit, the frustrations of the always second place late 80's, the magical wire-to-wire-first place everyday 1990 world title, the Marty & Joe radio show where a baseball game also happened to be taking place, Jay Bruce's division winning solo shot in 2010, the "we made the playoffs, but what's next" of the 2000's, thousands of road trip accompaniments and those late night bedtime broadcasts struggling to stay awake hoping to be semi-alert for school the following day.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Marty, somewhere, the ol' lefthander is raising a beer in your honor. You may be slowly rounding third, but there is still plenty of time before that final 90 feet comes to an end. Thanks Marty.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Yeah, so summer is over and along with it comes those fall races. The first on the list is the<i> <a href="https://damhalfmarathon.com/">D1 Columbus Dam Half Marathon and 10K</a>. </i>I will be running the half marathon with L running the 10K. The race will start at <i><a href="https://www.stateparks.com/alum_creek_state_park_in_ohio.html">Alum Creek Beach</a> </i>and run along the Alum Creek Lake Dam, for which the race is named. The 10K is expected to be a 3.1 mile out and back, while the half marathon will encompass Alum Creek Lake. Here are some additional details:<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSIFk4wTwfA4WXoBn0cV1HOip_DSYugPQtLVUxq5DeR1ZmSBbEfF_9ZQuYpo5W2EUD4DY9tLzoSt6CNBw6WzWcvbwtNzFmHaLnmqrqMUjDhOZIJftm-1xlyHapd8yHZLcSuln3CdihMTcy/s1600/66373947_789351968127352_860251386401521664_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="421" data-original-width="960" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSIFk4wTwfA4WXoBn0cV1HOip_DSYugPQtLVUxq5DeR1ZmSBbEfF_9ZQuYpo5W2EUD4DY9tLzoSt6CNBw6WzWcvbwtNzFmHaLnmqrqMUjDhOZIJftm-1xlyHapd8yHZLcSuln3CdihMTcy/s320/66373947_789351968127352_860251386401521664_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Join us for the inaugural The Dam Half Marathon & 10K on
Sunday, September 29 at Alum Creek State Park Beach, sponsored by D1 Training
Columbus.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Runners will receive:<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>*finisher medal<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>*official race t-shirt<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>*Alum Creek Beach Ale, courtesy of Olentangy River Brewing
Company<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>*BBQ buffet at the post-race party, just steps from the
finish line</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sounds like a blast, even packet pick-up takes place at <i><a href="https://www.olentangyriverbrewingcompany.com/">Olentangy River Brewing Company</a> </i>With temperatures to go from the 90s to the mid to high 70s, this should be an ideal fall run. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Or so we thought....</div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: left; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s1600/Final+Sport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s200/Final+Sport.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>**We back EVERY pair with </i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><a href="https://shadyrays.com/pages/official-live-hard-warranty-overview" style="color: #de7008;">FREE Replacements</a> if Lost or Broken</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>**</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: right; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s1600/DH4A7305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s200/DH4A7305.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>**Each order also secures 11 meals </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>to fight hunger through </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b><a href="http://fabackup.feedingamerica.org/optimized-homepage/?_ga=2.251139073.647855481.1504895789-1536808043.1504895789" style="color: #de7008;">Feeding America</a>**</b></i><o:p></o:p><br />
<div>
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></b><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></b><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></b><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;"><b style="background-color: transparent;">We are an independent sunglasses company </b><span style="background-color: transparent;">for those who don't want to buy from a massive, faceless company that has been operating the same way for decades </span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://shadyrays.com/" style="color: #de7008;">shadyrays.com</a></b></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdeh5n_ptryE-q_D0wSthOU5T0WAgHJCDFEvGlqINS3Nn5Y0je2AEUmKllNN_9jutvAeIyEdNvBqC9JThVfV2xorZZsSGVJOoOyxNvAp3IkrCatF275iAuv_aJK9GIK7Ge4okwqxNoelG/s1600/shady+rays.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdeh5n_ptryE-q_D0wSthOU5T0WAgHJCDFEvGlqINS3Nn5Y0je2AEUmKllNN_9jutvAeIyEdNvBqC9JThVfV2xorZZsSGVJOoOyxNvAp3IkrCatF275iAuv_aJK9GIK7Ge4okwqxNoelG/s1600/shady+rays.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A couple of weeks before race day, L forwards me an email she received from the race organizers. The proposed half marathon race route was going to change. Instead of running around<i> <a href="http://parks.ohiodnr.gov/alumcreek">Alum Creek State Park</a>, </i>we would follow an out an back course (similar to the 10k route) and run it twice - meaning we would run the length of the Alum Creek Dam (and then some) four times.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihOy1z9OaUnWSuL00vSs0Alc1S0Ul6vrGmphmA3SXOKT7dei_G4cA27NK2-sRovYwemYBm_CRgJZSyjrnXnzEHSGHVYp_HgLXzwAgMMnCfCNuYgOUyEol04Zcg2YPdtqvniK-fIqrzoY7g/s1600/65195588_780594559003093_2103894767942238208_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihOy1z9OaUnWSuL00vSs0Alc1S0Ul6vrGmphmA3SXOKT7dei_G4cA27NK2-sRovYwemYBm_CRgJZSyjrnXnzEHSGHVYp_HgLXzwAgMMnCfCNuYgOUyEol04Zcg2YPdtqvniK-fIqrzoY7g/s200/65195588_780594559003093_2103894767942238208_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>This WAS the half marathon </i></b><br />
<b><i>race route</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The correspondence from the race officials: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Due to safety concerns presented by local safety providers
after the recent tragedy that occurred earlier this summer, the D1 Columbus Dam
Half Marathon & 10k has been required to reevaluate the half marathon
course.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Half marathon runners will follow a new course which weaves
through the southern part of Alum Creek State Park and still features the
highlight of the race, the Alum Creek Dam. The course remains predominately on
a paved trail with a small portion on a dirt/grass trail just feet from the
lake, providing participants with a beautiful setting.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i></i><br />
<i></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I would rather not repeat large portions of the course because this can mess with you, making you think you are going faster or slower than you really are because the scenery and course doesn't change. I want to see a course evolve and not feel as if I'm on a hamster wheel, but nonetheless. The<i> <a href="https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/athletes-react-to-deadly-accident-during-ironman-triathlon">tragedy mentioned above</a></i> took place at the <i><a href="https://www.ironman.com/triathlon/events/americas/ironman-70.3/ohio.aspx#axzz60SHbtWWW">Ironman 70.3</a> </i>in July when a participant left the swim portion and at the beginning stages of the bike portion when outside of a barrier and was struck by a vehicle on U.S. Route 23. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I'm not a fan of our route change, but if this is what's needed to keep such tragedies from taking place again, then I'm all for it (but I still despise repeating routes). Over a stretch of a couple of days, I noticed folks asking on the race's social media pages about the route change. Some had only heard about it, or thought maybe they had seen something about it but were not contact directly. From what I could see, these inquiries were never followed up on - including mine asking for a bit more detail. And some claimed to have never received the email L had received. This made the both of us assume the event was going to be less than stellar.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbH56RtFGDX5qPATpuPByWGe-roClEVrdApbTt7aR4fg6ZV3Zjg3_xxez8SvDxM4AFxnaEWiqYjOiLGXzFBX2pqZfgsYe17f3eM2hjlxGOFDdn_8vwHb-cy0jZxz76Y6JL4un2RocvubfS/s1600/2c54900f-e502-426d-816d-5f16cbb32970.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbH56RtFGDX5qPATpuPByWGe-roClEVrdApbTt7aR4fg6ZV3Zjg3_xxez8SvDxM4AFxnaEWiqYjOiLGXzFBX2pqZfgsYe17f3eM2hjlxGOFDdn_8vwHb-cy0jZxz76Y6JL4un2RocvubfS/s200/2c54900f-e502-426d-816d-5f16cbb32970.png" width="199" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">The NEW race route, out & </span></i></b><br />
<b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">back...Twice</span></i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It wasn't a hot day, it was overcast with a slight breeze and a little humid. Readying ourselves at the starting line with others I notice what looked like a race official pull out a map as a dude dressed as a bike lead rolls up. Out of curiosity I saunter over and glance over their should. The official was explaining the half marathon route to this guy who <i>did</i> turn out to be our bike lead. We were to start in five minutes and the guy we would be following didn't know the route. <br />
Disappointed with the fact that I was correct in thinking the race details were fuzzy to even those who were running race, I stroll back over to corral hoping this day wouldn't be a complete cluster. The 8:00 a.m. start time comes and goes, a few minutes later some pseudo looking official gets on loud speaker and says something like, "<i>Hello everyone, were going to have an old school-style start. So....three....two....one...GO!" </i><br />
<br />
As we take off, I here a perturbed competitor next to me mumble loudly, <i>"Well, that's old school I guess." </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
We file through the parking lot and I'm in the front group of what looks to be eight to ten. We reach the road to turn left with our lane blocked off by orange cones and the traffic be directed from by park officials and police officers. The road portion is just a snippet, but the middle of non-blocked off portion has the entrance/exit to a housing development. About a half mile in I look up to see our bike lead stopped in front a giant SUV in our lane (the portion blocked from traffic) facing us and he's arguing with the driver. The driver swerves around the bike, nearing clipping it, and in our lane in our direction. The bike lead yells something and the truck stops again.<br />
<br />
This time the driver - an older, stocky dude - gets out and stomps toward the bike lead angrily. The bike guy yells, <i>"You are in the middle of a race, you went through the middle of the cones and nearly hit me!" </i>All of this is happening as hundreds of us are running by them just feet way.<br />
<br />
A bit pissed, I join in, <i>"Get the hell out of the road! Get the HELL out of the ROAD!"</i><br />
<i></i>We continue running and I'm trying to forget the stupidity of some people. At mile one - despite events that have taken place - I'm at 6:27. Directly behind an older gentleman we approach the turn off onto the trail toward the dam. The bike lead makes his way past us to get back in front and all seems to be okay. It is a bit of an incline, but mile two is at 6:26 and I'm comfortable with the pace. Though, I've notice each mile marker sign on the route is about 30 to 40 feet away from where my watch indicates each mile traveled. Likely indicating we will be covering a bit more than 13.1 miles.<br />
<br />
I drift passed the older guy as we cross the dam and onto the grass portion of the trail. The uneven, not-quite a real trail portion is playing havoc with my pace as I'm focusing less on form and more on keeping myself from tripping over divots & rocks. Trudging up the slight grassy incline, I can hear the older guy and whomever else behind me. We pass the bike lead, who looks to be unharmed by the schmuck in the SUV earlier, and the leaders making the turn trip and I find myself in fifth place. At mile three I'm at 6:38 as the grassy incline has brought me back to Earth.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ZdSEMCenYqCXjOmdYd-3zuO87vGU4AN6tLSCMNm5Ju6WLgk_wAnJh8p6JcrQGc5VkVhlVk021R51UKSm4rcOBrhMSQ74tLdN_fyWmSFZNrQprBQuH4II8VrQ63eyhDvjq9oMrVw8hV60/s1600/thumbnail_20190930_180653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ZdSEMCenYqCXjOmdYd-3zuO87vGU4AN6tLSCMNm5Ju6WLgk_wAnJh8p6JcrQGc5VkVhlVk021R51UKSm4rcOBrhMSQ74tLdN_fyWmSFZNrQprBQuH4II8VrQ63eyhDvjq9oMrVw8hV60/s320/thumbnail_20190930_180653.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Finisher's medal and ORBC souvenier<br />beer glass.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We reach the turnaround and I'm glad to have the decline ahead. We begin passing the followers and I hear a few of them yell out some encouragement, including, <i>"The three of you are doing great, keep it up!" </i>Ahhh, there it is - I know now for sure there are just two folks directly behind me. I then see L coming the opposite direction and we gesture good luck to one another as we pass. We reach the fuel station just before we get back to the road and the girl there is holding a cup in each hand and says, "<i>Water & Gatorade!"</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"Gatorade!"</i>, I say reaching toward her, but like a cruel joke she pulls both hands back and glances at the table of colored liquid-filled cups behind her sheepishly. My swipe to grab one of the cups she's holding comes up empty as I drift by and she bellows, "<i>I'm sorry!</i>" A bit stunned, I notice she is holding two cups of water and the Gatorade she falsely advertised as having on her person is resting peacefully and untouched, stacked neatly five feet away.<br />
<br />
<i>"Son of a b***h", </i>I blurt out in frustration. We drift back onto the road and our small group now has it's own bike lead since the race leaders are well ahead. At mile four I'm at 6:32 and moments later one of those who had been following me pulls along side. I increase my stride and stay right next to him up the long slight incline to the park entrance. Once there we turn right and he drifts in front, but I stay directly behind. Here I notice I can no longer hear the third member of our group and at mile five I'm at 6:29. In the distance we can see the finish and after a scan of the parking lot I noticed the lead pack in the distance to the left, I'm curious to know what goofy route we take in order to cover everything a second time.<br />
<br />
As we get to what would be the final straight stretch for the 10k group, a race volunteer asks, <i>"The half or 10K?" </i>The dude in front of me indicates the half and the volunteer directs us and our bike lead to take a hard left. As we wind through the parking lot it is blatantly clear the half marathon turn around portion isn't marked in anyway, shape or form. Once we get to within projectile vomiting distance of the start/finish line I yell to our bike lead, <i>"This is the half marathon route, correct?". </i>He then gives me a thumbs up and shakes his head.<br />
<br />
We turn to head back toward from where he came and I feel at bit better about what's taking place. Back onto the original route to make the second go around I see a runner not too far ahead of us, we are gaining on one of those we are chasing. The dude I'm following has picked up the pace a bit and in order to not lose him, I follow along. I pass L a second time and, again, we gesture to one another. At mile six I'm at 6:28 and at the park entrance/exit again, I pull along side the dude.<br />
<br />
He says, <i>"Nice race."</i><br />
<i> "Likewise," </i>I say and then point to the guy we are gaining on, <i>"let's go get him."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
It is a bit of decline here and we are dodging the 10k group that is finishing up coming the opposite direction, but this time we get to avoid a schmuck in an SUV attempting drive on the race route. One of those passing the opposite direct alerts us, <i>"You guys are five, six and seven." </i>I try to utilize the downhill to my advantage and get a few steps ahead of the dude I'm with. In just a few moments I'm catch up to the guy we were gaining on, but he looks familiar. Right before going around him it hits me, <i>this is the older guy I passed back on mile two and followed us for another mile to two.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Passing him, again, he glances over and asks, <i>"Which way did you go in the parking lot? Did you go straight or turn?"</i><br />
<i> "We turned with the bike lead and circled the parking lot."</i><br />
<i>"Damn, I'm sorry. No one knew where I was supposed to go back there, I had to guess", </i>he says.<br />
<i> </i>Sympathizing, I follow with,<i>"Don't apologize, no worries, not your fault."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
I drift by him and at mile seven I'm at 6:31 and we approach the dam trail a second time. There is the fuel stop liar again, this time she was equal portions of water and Gatorade. Her cohort is standing behind the table, so one of us will have to get our own refreshment. Up the incline I hear the older guy and the dude both on my tail. We cross the dam and at mile eight I'm at 6:44 as the grass trail portion begins. It is hard to get decent footing and I'm expecting one or both of those behind me to pass.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tobBwWBTNDZ3HiT1acRrgpuoFhJAu1nzii2O_Jm_Od6vUqgtmLGA8TTtE7oK_POaWqaOurL6NWUpBEfhO9GW7m1Ru9fOJAA7g2YFt7d05UQsSSxnxykd3DOnWRyQYwkoqRZVhepEmjzb/s1600/Craig%2527s+Finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="630" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2tobBwWBTNDZ3HiT1acRrgpuoFhJAu1nzii2O_Jm_Od6vUqgtmLGA8TTtE7oK_POaWqaOurL6NWUpBEfhO9GW7m1Ru9fOJAA7g2YFt7d05UQsSSxnxykd3DOnWRyQYwkoqRZVhepEmjzb/s320/Craig%2527s+Finish.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The leaders pass by a second time and there is a huge gap between them and an even larger gap between us and them. At the turn around I glance over my left shoulder and the dude is about ten feet behind. At miles nine & ten I'm at 6:38 and 6:48 and I'm fatigued - though I haven't yet been passed. Similarly, miles eleven & twelve are 6:51 & 7:05 - I'm tired, but I feel faster than what my watch is indicating.<br />
<br />
Back onto the road, and with decent footing, I force myself into an exaggerated knees & elbows routine - increasing my stride locomotive style. Up the incline to the park entrance and around to the parking lot area, the final straight stretch appears and down the decline through the finish I go. I stop my watch and grab some water and see I've finished<i> <a href="https://www.athlinks.com/event/306693/results/Event/836883/Results">at 1:28:26 and in 5th place</a></i>, having covered 13.29 miles. L finds me and she, too, felt a bit slow having covered the 10k portion in 52:46 for 16th place. Not her best race, but still quite good for her.<br />
<br />
Sharing some race details, L says when she finished there <i>wasn't any water </i>at the finish. She asked folks, but no one had a clue as to what to do or where to find it. Then upon roaming to catch her breath, she found some bottled water near the finisher's party. She picked it up, dragged it over to the finish and angrily slammed it to the ground in front of the volunteers. <i>"Here's your freaking water!", </i>she exclaimed and stormed off. She, too, was a bit annoyed at the lack of attention to detail on a number of things.<br />
<br />
The two fellas (the dude and the older guy) who had been following me finished twelve and thirty seconds behind. And come to find out the one finishing directly behind me lives in our neighborhood, just two blocks over. Somehow, we had never crossed paths.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUF0k9_JdFxdXZ9Ogyz1yurYANKjCiyOgxiAIbMYmk_3C-XrU26NN3tYzPabgwxQGfK2nxpq05Ns8Cjpey7qNKcE3wj6UvqBPINKrxsva8dPGiwRaRVnNKJtjxa3mxA6VXIy3WsiYoDQ3k/s1600/L%2527s+finish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="277" data-original-width="631" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUF0k9_JdFxdXZ9Ogyz1yurYANKjCiyOgxiAIbMYmk_3C-XrU26NN3tYzPabgwxQGfK2nxpq05Ns8Cjpey7qNKcE3wj6UvqBPINKrxsva8dPGiwRaRVnNKJtjxa3mxA6VXIy3WsiYoDQ3k/s320/L%2527s+finish.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
We wandered over to the finisher's party for a BBQ lunch and our free <i><a href="https://www.olentangyriverbrewingcompany.com/">Olentangy River Brewing beer</a> </i>before making our way to the car for the 20 minute ride home. Worn out, we crashed and watched football the rest of our Sunday. Our neighbor, Doug, did asked if we wanted him to mulch the leaves in our back yard since the plethora of leaves come from the tree in <i>his</i> yard.<i> </i>We told him to do as he pleases and later we discovered he just ended up mowing our entire backyard, though it didn't really need it. He apparently enjoys the mowing and such and we aren't going to complain. It is fall and everything will be dead and brown before you know it in order to regenerate itself in the coming months, so...yeah.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Seasons can get old and boring after awhile, which is why we should celebrate the changes. It boosts the wanting of those favorite times of the year and makes them more enjoyable. I miss summer when it passes, but even more so with this most recent one for a variety of reasons. Though with football season underway, college basketball on the near horizon and the leaves changing - there is something in the air that's calling me and I can't quit put my finger on it. Whatever this strange attractor may be, I'm looking forward to it....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><u><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VKxy5r1SaIM">Leeroy Stagger - Strange Attracto</a></u></i></b><b><i><u><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VKxy5r1SaIM">r</a></u></i></b><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxhBxjzp5Fu_tQS_nR1ybqh8CrJ2ysRp5_ztwmrPvQE8Lq-fk0QUbPQp1u4xobzJgWu05cNLcb3g7vDbaeZLmhu6-6GOaWbE2fFR9MA_1r4RkrThXvBm3noCKVUH2n57MODvrsg5BSOdz/s1600/thumbnail_20190928_130056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLxhBxjzp5Fu_tQS_nR1ybqh8CrJ2ysRp5_ztwmrPvQE8Lq-fk0QUbPQp1u4xobzJgWu05cNLcb3g7vDbaeZLmhu6-6GOaWbE2fFR9MA_1r4RkrThXvBm3noCKVUH2n57MODvrsg5BSOdz/s320/thumbnail_20190928_130056.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Race day eve flight at <a href="http://www.illmanneredbeer.com/">Ill Mannered Brewing</a></b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTjIFzAxI6wmZ1w8xd6DtBEgb5KXW0o3O8g0MahDqZnOqY0BeD7LSzRpxqWiABJrY2IvkGVThx-qgicCFXsT5E1fZUpNI5aluIn6LhPa3FsFp9sQkA2vqb_ge6wrU4GtMPSFQCwImTCO0S/s1600/thumbnail_20190928_143248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTjIFzAxI6wmZ1w8xd6DtBEgb5KXW0o3O8g0MahDqZnOqY0BeD7LSzRpxqWiABJrY2IvkGVThx-qgicCFXsT5E1fZUpNI5aluIn6LhPa3FsFp9sQkA2vqb_ge6wrU4GtMPSFQCwImTCO0S/s320/thumbnail_20190928_143248.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Race day eve flight #2 at <a href="https://nocterrabrewing.com/">Nocterra Brewing</a></b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikJl0C0Wl42pcsaJCRLvbqRd9Ggu6NivMTYJOAlVQW0NJ_AwQj8FkLluUVPZXAAt6bu-1zPKO3fDzXmeNZ7y7TWCU_G6VMwfgsU_SBatg3Q68Z8kcLvrvYbvUR9wA0iiH__ICx9WGpJCcE/s1600/thumbnail_20190929_185642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikJl0C0Wl42pcsaJCRLvbqRd9Ggu6NivMTYJOAlVQW0NJ_AwQj8FkLluUVPZXAAt6bu-1zPKO3fDzXmeNZ7y7TWCU_G6VMwfgsU_SBatg3Q68Z8kcLvrvYbvUR9wA0iiH__ICx9WGpJCcE/s320/thumbnail_20190929_185642.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Jameson demonstrating how to spend a Sunday <br />afternoon following a half marathon.</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-39216636036149322052019-09-06T13:46:00.000-04:002019-09-06T20:42:03.627-04:00Homebrew Dreams & Buttercream Faces<br />
Summer's late season heat finally rolled around and lucky for us it would be just in time for an outdoor wedding. Luckily, we planned it to be a casual family picnic-type affair - so we weren't too worried about. It was what we were hoping it would be, a perfect end to <i>The Wedding Summer.</i><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihT6MFa9-dkrNTWyy64pOZXroWFXau8d0E14d-S1KsAAerxtui7v5UlLDth8Cm-Iz4xEQdN-wKfThp7B_GbFzNgsMim44Wb-DGkAsSmsTRrpw8wIJnzmklAw455qlZO7hUrAy5reTcL6fI/s1600/69128441_873574763022008_5688269650488459264_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihT6MFa9-dkrNTWyy64pOZXroWFXau8d0E14d-S1KsAAerxtui7v5UlLDth8Cm-Iz4xEQdN-wKfThp7B_GbFzNgsMim44Wb-DGkAsSmsTRrpw8wIJnzmklAw455qlZO7hUrAy5reTcL6fI/s320/69128441_873574763022008_5688269650488459264_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>I had always envisioned my name in<br />lights, but I'll settle with confections.</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Because they thought it would be cool, my place of employment decided to throw a "groom shower" for me. I reluctantly agreed to this, but they meant well it wasn't a horrible thing. Among the fun stuff was a cake with photos of L and I hijacked from my Facebook page. I got a kick out of telling folks, after all of the things I've done to them, they could finally have a piece of me. Their effort was appreciated and doing something of this nature for a jerk like me is impressive. This proves I can, sometimes, grow on people.<br />
<br />
Before the summer long planning was put into effect, I followed up the August half marathon with <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/CanalWinchester/Blazin5"><i>Columbus Running Company's Blazin' 5 Miler</i></a> the weekend before L and I took the plunge. I would be running this one by myself as L decided to relax and watch me suffer in the humidity. Having had fall-like temps at the <a href="https://www.mtecresults.com/race/show/8054/2019_Goodyear_Half_Marathon_%2526_10K-Half_Marathon"><i>Goodyear Half Marathon</i></a>, we would have a race start temperature warmer than nearly that entire half marathon day. There is a reason why the five miler is called <i>"Blazin'".</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Last year, I took <i><a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/45609/#resultSetId-125860;perpage:100">8th in this race at 30:18</a> - </i>finishing behind <i>now</i> CRC Westerville Teammates Seth & John. A bit disappointing as I was wanting break the 30:00 five miler barrier for the first time since my<i> <a href="https://msueagles.com/index.aspx?path=mcross">Morehead State University Cross Country</a></i> days and came up just short. With the same goal, and much better training behind me, this was again my focus - though how much the half marathon the weekend before would effect me would be key. I spent the days before doing some light workouts as those leg muscles were showing signs of fatigue. As for L, she was fighting allergies that were being spread through the summer air.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5vVG7k8AepXU9Z1bmR0wgUkVJn-JvjGzOduDixngHazS8OnhyphenhyphenqAQzGNiZhvnlZ_4zUjmsuPu_UjooW_eXQ__oF_kd7a_I6y5JIQgsvU1_-iuZEDfcncLtn4bc2Djbv2TQteh6vsC23glj/s1600/race45609-logo.bACJbc.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="190" data-original-width="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5vVG7k8AepXU9Z1bmR0wgUkVJn-JvjGzOduDixngHazS8OnhyphenhyphenqAQzGNiZhvnlZ_4zUjmsuPu_UjooW_eXQ__oF_kd7a_I6y5JIQgsvU1_-iuZEDfcncLtn4bc2Djbv2TQteh6vsC23glj/s1600/race45609-logo.bACJbc.png" /></a>The Blazin' 5 Miler is be an out and back jaunt starting at the <i><a href="https://ymcacolumbus.org/garver">Jerry L. Garver YMCA</a> </i>in <a href="https://www.canalwinchesterohio.gov/"><i>Canal Winchester</i></a><i> </i>and then a left onto Long Street which runs directly into the <a href="http://centralohiogreenways.com/trails/blacklick-creek-trail/" style="font-style: italic;">Blacklick Creek Trail</a><i>, </i>which<span style="text-align: center;"> winds along the Blacklick Creek from <i><a href="http://www.ci.reynoldsburg.oh.us/">Reynoldsburg</a> </i>to <a href="https://www.groveport.org/"><i>Groveport</i></a>. We would follow the trail past <a href="https://www.columbus.gov/recreationandparks/parks/Portman-Park/"><i>Portman Park</i></a> and to the right, crossing both Gender Road & Brice Road, before making the turnaround at a roundabout portion of the path at the 2 1/2 mile mark - flat and <i>(depending how well you are feeling)</i> fast.</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: center;">Come race day it was humid, but not blazing hot. At the start I follow one of the CRC Elite women hoping to stick with her for as long as I can. There was a dude directly behind us who had a horrible case of heavy footedness, making it hard to concentrate. Luckily, shortly thereafter, he went around us. Moments later there is another tagging along and at mile one I'm at 5:41. I am one who only looks at my watch once the mile marker signal buzzes to see my pace, but I didn't have to do this here. The dude behind us had his watch set so that an automated voice would tell him how far he'd gone, his pace and time at each marker. Yes, this - too - was annoying.</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHHaTzJpvZ6fUCcvzREhSA5ktARmmAvyC42EvtGav6t4WnOXP6il9oQuZmiT42-m2FWwYdfYHPzhpuR1ZRiW9UV0eAca7aoGuIwTh4g_QRspgFaFRW3_kOPdQYfMaUbyomjtbZ24oivrU/s1600/map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="621" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHHaTzJpvZ6fUCcvzREhSA5ktARmmAvyC42EvtGav6t4WnOXP6il9oQuZmiT42-m2FWwYdfYHPzhpuR1ZRiW9UV0eAca7aoGuIwTh4g_QRspgFaFRW3_kOPdQYfMaUbyomjtbZ24oivrU/s320/map.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="text-align: center;">Still sticking with the CRC Elite woman as we meander about the rolling paved trail terrain, we dodge oncoming Sunday morning bikers. The three of us are pretty close-knit and hoping to have enough on the return trip to improve last year's finish. At mile two we're at 6:03 and we pass, coming the opposite direction, the bike lead and lead runners. The bike lead throw's out some encouragement, <i>"The turn around is just ahead, looking good folks!"</i></span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Reaching the turnaround loop, the three of us are still sticking together and we pass those who were a bit behind us. I don't see Traffic Panther Gary, this only meant he wasn't far behind and is within striking distance. Moments later I pass L and we give one another a thumbs up.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A bit more than halfway back, I'm feeling the fatigue. The dude with the annoying watch has over taken the CRC Elite woman and I, but she is on his tail and I'm drifting back <i>(mile 3: 6:14). </i>Focusing on form and keeping my stride long, I'm hoping to maintain the rest of the way in. There isn't much incline on the course, but the return trip felt it was<i> ALL</i> up hill and I'm wearing down in the humidity and those in front are long gone <i>(mile 4: 6:24).</i></div>
<br />
I'm working on reaching the final straight stretch in order to pour what I left into it, but before I can - a sharp pain shoots through my right calf. I'm taken back a bit, hoping after a few steps the pain would subside - but it doesn't and it is enough to force me into an awkward "run-limp" type movement. I'm disappointed and ticked, but I'm not going to come to a stop with less than a half mile to go. The pain isn't going away and I can't push off with any sincere effort - <i>son of a b***</i>. I was hoping to "pegleg it" to the finish without anyone passing me - but that didn't happen. Traffic Panther Gary flies with about 100 meters to go. I finally finish and stop my watch to see <i>30:58, </i>:40 seconds slower than last year and full minute slower that what I was expecting.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEWZ1z3OuEufgKosSkx4CY1MsES9FpJapmOGLtYU9CFc_TcGBzT2c7snweG8TFwQIBW3kkE0NiL4TzCnW0VrdSS3g6dMrN2E7-lud9O18VKsxwpjBj9fpBBJGrg_YAzn0zDbLb1Pidw4MI/s1600/race_45609_13904_c77a6583-964b-4398-be39-491d5943adf2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEWZ1z3OuEufgKosSkx4CY1MsES9FpJapmOGLtYU9CFc_TcGBzT2c7snweG8TFwQIBW3kkE0NiL4TzCnW0VrdSS3g6dMrN2E7-lud9O18VKsxwpjBj9fpBBJGrg_YAzn0zDbLb1Pidw4MI/s320/race_45609_13904_c77a6583-964b-4398-be39-491d5943adf2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Limping to the finish - not a proud moment</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A medical staff member gives me an ice pack to apply to my now swollen calf, my last mile end up being 6:35. Checking to see if I was still among the living, Gary finds me, <i>"Sorry man, but you were a wounded duck - I had to make sure I caught you." <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/Results/45609/#resultSetId-166878;perpage:100">I ended up 7th overall,</a> </i>one spot behind Gary. The two I had been running with for most of the race - the loud watch dude - finished in 29:48 and the CRC Elite woman in 30:11.<br />
<br />
Not long after, L is making her way in and she doesn't look good - the allergies are eating her alive. She did finish 25th in 42:36, but she struggled with breathing as the remnants in the air played havoc with her sinuses. She did, though, win her age group - but being as competitive as she is, she didn't think she deserved it having not being able to run her best race. On the way home we grabbed breakfast at Tim Horton's, L laughed saying we had to stop there instead of one of tastier local places because our performances were sub par.<br />
<br />
Come to find out, I have a calf strain and the only way to get over it is to ice frequently and to take a break from running...this will be hard for me as I'm not one to sit still for long. It is nice to know that the next event isn't until September 29th with <i><a href="https://damhalfmarathon.com/">The Dam Half Marathon & 10k</a>, </i>circling a large portion of <i><a href="http://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/alumcreeklake">Alum Creek Lake</a>. </i>And, well, I - <i>or WE</i> -will be preoccupied having taken the next two weeks off of work for the wedding and ensuing honeymoon. How did these turn out you ask? We will see in the coming weeks...<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: left; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s1600/Final+Sport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s200/Final+Sport.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>**We back EVERY pair with </i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><a href="https://shadyrays.com/pages/official-live-hard-warranty-overview" style="color: #de7008;">FREE Replacements</a> if Lost or Broken</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>**</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: right; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s1600/DH4A7305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s200/DH4A7305.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>**Each order also secures 11 meals </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>to fight hunger through </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b><a href="http://fabackup.feedingamerica.org/optimized-homepage/?_ga=2.251139073.647855481.1504895789-1536808043.1504895789" style="color: #de7008;">Feeding America</a>**</b></i><o:p></o:p><br />
<div>
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></b><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></b><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></b><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;"><b style="background-color: transparent;">We are an independent sunglasses company </b><span style="background-color: transparent;">for those who don't want to buy from a massive, faceless company that has been operating the same way for decades </span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="http://shadyrays.com/" style="color: #de7008;">shadyrays.com</a></b></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdeh5n_ptryE-q_D0wSthOU5T0WAgHJCDFEvGlqINS3Nn5Y0je2AEUmKllNN_9jutvAeIyEdNvBqC9JThVfV2xorZZsSGVJOoOyxNvAp3IkrCatF275iAuv_aJK9GIK7Ge4okwqxNoelG/s1600/shady+rays.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdeh5n_ptryE-q_D0wSthOU5T0WAgHJCDFEvGlqINS3Nn5Y0je2AEUmKllNN_9jutvAeIyEdNvBqC9JThVfV2xorZZsSGVJOoOyxNvAp3IkrCatF275iAuv_aJK9GIK7Ge4okwqxNoelG/s1600/shady+rays.png" /></a></div>
<i>(Two weeks or so later)</i><br />
<br />
...Holy cow, <i>we're married! </i>And did it without killing any relatives, having the authorities called on us or having some weird confession being blurted out by a random whatnot who hates happy people and likes to see people suffer. Oh, and my beer didn't contaminate anyone, <i>BOOM! </i>You laugh, but trust me - we have a history of backwardness that'll make your head spin, this was an <i>accomplishment </i>for us.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimkZ7wlmY3ZeEZhe4AnsqDPr2IzfNTKtguA8ZrkkHFMyinnzbV1Xfh8AHJdyF_yg9qK7UBfIZCYP6p1QPXDndS1rsruiidHHmXDpSSVR_s-Kbme0hSNrkzbGNpT7GOSqmXzsdCVmzUxzpn/s1600/Concerned.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="443" data-original-width="367" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimkZ7wlmY3ZeEZhe4AnsqDPr2IzfNTKtguA8ZrkkHFMyinnzbV1Xfh8AHJdyF_yg9qK7UBfIZCYP6p1QPXDndS1rsruiidHHmXDpSSVR_s-Kbme0hSNrkzbGNpT7GOSqmXzsdCVmzUxzpn/s320/Concerned.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
We did have a rather hilarious error a few days before the event. We created a wedding Facebook page and sent our friends & family a message to like and follow it. This way we could share details and what not with everyone, then have them post pictures and such from the wedding on it as a way for us to commemorate the day. One of the pre-event posts I wrote included the phrase "downtown delaware". Not realizing it, Facebook had auto-tagged the <a href="https://downtowndelaware.com/"><i>Downtown Delaware </i></a>organization.<br />
<br />
Imagine my surprise when I get his message sent to us via our Facebook page from a concerned resident: <i>"... downtown Delaware posted your last message in to the public.
You might want to give them to take that down." </i><br />
<br />
<i>What!?</i> HILARIOUS!<br />
<br />
Upon investigation I did see the post was shared. To make sure we didn't need to produce enough food to feed ALL of Delaware City's 40,000 residents, I kindly sent the Downtown Delaware folks a message asking if they could "un-share" our post. They apologized saying their social media manager shares all the posts they get tagged in and didn't really notice what it was they were sharing.<br />
<br />
They apologized, and obliged, within minutes but not before our post had reached over <i>730 people and produced 430 engagements from Facebook users</i>. Downtown Delaware wished us luck and was happy we weren't upset, just surprised and amused. Though, I was impressed with our popularity since that post had 700% more traffic than all of the others. Maybe I need to start a business promoting events via Facebook, <i>hmmm?!</i><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl4B2hktpSsnZ-QXDCXQ9CHmLu9GFfsw0ovTWHhJ2qDAUurResFJsGjr8DKKBWYRky00mPL4uwrsfsX9CUH2FDxWAOhHBmE1JRBg1flYUJVZ87A0v6YUUAhXjTQdtDS-z8WmoBuzXFiYse/s1600/numbers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="138" data-original-width="471" height="93" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl4B2hktpSsnZ-QXDCXQ9CHmLu9GFfsw0ovTWHhJ2qDAUurResFJsGjr8DKKBWYRky00mPL4uwrsfsX9CUH2FDxWAOhHBmE1JRBg1flYUJVZ87A0v6YUUAhXjTQdtDS-z8WmoBuzXFiYse/s320/numbers.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I wrote back to the concerned citizen who alerted us to the error and thanked her. She found it amusing as well, telling us, <i>".... well I guess I'll take the China back! Haha. Congrats
to Lauren and Craig!"</i><br />
<i><br /></i>It was definitely an experience, doing all the food, decorations, music and preparing the venues ourselves- with family and friends assisting. The morning started with heading out to garner nine bags of ice, then making sure our house and yard (the reception location) were prepared for after the picnic and ceremony at the park. As for L, she and others decorated the venue at the park. Shortly thereafter we traded locations, she headed back to our place to continue preparing while I headed to the park to fire up the grill and start cooking the main course.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4KLtEjNNG0HJ1fmdS3i32u4ekbm-uh49HjZJYmzt2-rBQm_UUzADPO1YsKlbcl8eZLDSrJcCZ7rrbr1L8bK9o8HzsKFVlUV46r3g07EmP-I27E18yJcPoTNsGAF7-jkA1hTXw-EFKIZsO/s1600/69341189_499859337237355_4863973685884616704_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4KLtEjNNG0HJ1fmdS3i32u4ekbm-uh49HjZJYmzt2-rBQm_UUzADPO1YsKlbcl8eZLDSrJcCZ7rrbr1L8bK9o8HzsKFVlUV46r3g07EmP-I27E18yJcPoTNsGAF7-jkA1hTXw-EFKIZsO/s320/69341189_499859337237355_4863973685884616704_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Married!</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Fixing food for about 60 people wasn't something I've done before, so it was a bit nerve wracking hoping to cook/smoke the chicken thoroughly and not have it be overdone or taste like tree bark. People began arriving dressed in their Sunday semi-casual best and mingling while I, still dressed in what I essentially woke up in, smelling like briquettes and smoldering wood chips. It was weird for me, so it had to be different for others hanging around the grill with the guy cooking the food for the wedding feast who would be leaving shortly to shower & dress to return moments later to play the part of the groom.<br />
<br />
You couldn't have asked for a more perfect late August Sunday, mid 70's and full sun. When the chicken was finished, I promised our family and friends that I would return, high-tailed it the mile home, showered & dressed and returned just in time for L to announce our buffet was reading for everyone to dig in to. Somehow we had the venue prepared, the food cooked and were dressed for an outdoor picnic/wedding just minutes after the noon hour - after four months of gathering, tweaking and collaborating - our target event start was right on time!<br />
<br />
As our guests ran through our makeshift buffet line and sat down to eat, L & I walked around welcoming and thanking folks for helping us celebrate. Before we knew it, the food had evaporated and it was time for the ceremony. Our officiant arrived and we moved off to an area of the park we had selected for the wedding and moments later....L and I were officially a married couple. It went so fast and I still find myself pausing for moment or two thinking, <i>"Holy crap! I'm married!?"</i><br />
<br />
Everyone who wanted to then traveled to our house for a reception of adult beverages, games, camaraderie, celebration and more food. Our neighbors from across the street provided portions of the games and our next door neighbors offered their giant livestock feeding trough they had purchased to use as the beer cooler for their son's wedding weeks before. And, of course, we used it in the same manner.<br />
<br />
Somehow, L & I and our crew of family and friends had pulled off this entire day without a single misstep or woulda-should-coulda to be had. And the food brought down the house:<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFzgHQsaJ8Euf1x9HaYQ2453AbIUk4xnGTCRWjqDcr-pTCPin8vK7DNPw6RlGeNh-4c8_xCTvIt4lrOw0VVqDp2uxDS39HTVTNOa8TxQg5C3NllxkTmmKe6io3vkI664ykMYKryeA-DBq3/s1600/69461585_117043246331861_4917524102635323392_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFzgHQsaJ8Euf1x9HaYQ2453AbIUk4xnGTCRWjqDcr-pTCPin8vK7DNPw6RlGeNh-4c8_xCTvIt4lrOw0VVqDp2uxDS39HTVTNOa8TxQg5C3NllxkTmmKe6io3vkI664ykMYKryeA-DBq3/s320/69461585_117043246331861_4917524102635323392_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b><a href="https://www.michigan.org/property/warren-dunes-state-park">Warren Dunes State Park</a> - this was snow covered<br />the last time we were here.</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Out of 24 lbs of smoked chicken thighs, there were three left.</li>
<li>The sweet & sour pickles L made were gone.</li>
<li>The pickled peppers we made were gone</li>
<li>The pepper jelly L made was gone</li>
<li>Lauren's mom's Slovak potato salad was emptied</li>
<li>Out of the 100 wedding cupcakes made by my nieces (ages 14 &11), there were three for us to enjoy - Calli & Abby out did themselves.</li>
<li>The sliced peaches and homegrown tomatoes & cucumbers were gone</li>
<li>The mac & cheese was destroyed</li>
<li>My mom's baked beans were eliminated</li>
<li>L's Aunt Marci's Quinoa salad was left on life support with recipe requests coming from all directions.</li>
<li>Only a quarter of the ham (purchased to suffice those who may not have wanted chicken) was left</li>
<li>Four of the wedding beers I produced survived</li>
<li>Five purchased beers (for those who wanted beer made by <i>actual</i> brewers) remained</li>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<li>And the tray of 40 sampler subs we ordered for late date noshing at the reception had dwindled to just three lonely sandwiches. <i>Though, since I hadn't eaten anything all day, I inhaled these in about 2 1/2 minutes when our guests had finally moved on and I had time to relax.</i></li>
</ul>
We spent the following day recuperating and relaxing, basking in amazement at how everything went better than we had planned - Tim Horton's was our breakfast as we were in no mood to do anything else. Two days later we headed for our honeymoon: South Haven, Michigan and the spectacular shoreline. It was a fun-filled five days and discovered what we already knew - it is just as fun in South Haven in human weather as it is during arctic weather. <i><a href="https://crs1975.blogspot.com/2019/02/snow-dunes-frozen-great-lake.html">(Yeah, we were there last February when everything was frozen over - including Lake Michigan)</a> </i>We even stayed at the same B&B to get the full alternative experience and explored a handful of area breweries <i>(<a href="https://saugatuckbrewing.com/">Saugatuck Brewing</a>, <a href="https://www.waypostbeer.com/">Waypost Brewing</a>, <a href="https://www.harborlightbrewing.com/">Harbor Light Brewing</a>, <a href="https://www.threeblondesbrewing.com/">Three Blondes Brewing</a> and <a href="http://liverybrew.com/">The Livery</a>).</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwW66nKf0rkKKoZ7E7EIS3XJ9T9RhiTaWUMeWDfRbd96s_y6ogoG0U5UkhS3eH0jj8INNF-K0GhRxHQ2KBKrQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Sunset in South Haven</span></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Again, it is amazing to look back at all of the work put into the planning & preparations then have that day come and go in what seemed to be a blink of the eye. With that said, one can only imagine what we have to look forward. We aren't sure how it will evolve, where it will go or even how fast - so, as a courtesy to you - this is the final warning folks: <i>We have joined forces, buckle up and hold on...the L & C amusement ride begins in 3...2...1...</i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8l5hnWRZYY">Drew Holcomb & the Neighbors - <o:p></o:p>Family</a></i></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, singing in the kitchen<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, running thru the yard<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, going on vacation<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, on the credit card<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, all in this together<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, we’re taking a chance<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, like birds of feather<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, kick off your shoes and dance<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, on the way to the city<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, laughing in the rain<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, it ain’t always pretty<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, can drive you insane<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, got the keys to the kingdom<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, take it a la carte<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, all four seasons<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, well bless your heart<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>You don't choose ‘em, you can’t lose ‘em<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>We all have a song to sing<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Some are crazy, some are amazing<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>All got a little bit of everything <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, sons and daughters<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, like a photograph<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, baptized in the water<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, put me on the map<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, all in this together<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, taking a chance<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, like birds of feather<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Family, kick off your shoes and dance</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><u>Photos</u></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF1lle36LMcFbk6izJzKUlRGGWHPmbLtu1ng_66XQD_Q2EX8vrfk_X4viy5JXd0lc7LDCblYD4hIBPlSlO2_Fea9g5vekErr22dLREJvFfYY0kdI3DG0CQkwrHTibxPqhNjO3zN1-Qpu8Y/s1600/thumbnail_20190815_074509.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF1lle36LMcFbk6izJzKUlRGGWHPmbLtu1ng_66XQD_Q2EX8vrfk_X4viy5JXd0lc7LDCblYD4hIBPlSlO2_Fea9g5vekErr22dLREJvFfYY0kdI3DG0CQkwrHTibxPqhNjO3zN1-Qpu8Y/s320/thumbnail_20190815_074509.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Eating myself, cake leftovers</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMOCexxQYGe_josISQmoFoUGnPgBIcDF6_VVMKbqYB1RUlXcKaJzGBjuxUVt9pF2Q1gWWm7uLUVOOB90DSV_l5HOwG_kTCFVFccp8QEqRh1WqFe1KAZCmeH9fvlFN3VwQQBjHyS1BIzOe/s1600/68595731_2424403207833099_4816084474116702208_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMOCexxQYGe_josISQmoFoUGnPgBIcDF6_VVMKbqYB1RUlXcKaJzGBjuxUVt9pF2Q1gWWm7uLUVOOB90DSV_l5HOwG_kTCFVFccp8QEqRh1WqFe1KAZCmeH9fvlFN3VwQQBjHyS1BIzOe/s320/68595731_2424403207833099_4816084474116702208_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>A close up of the edible us.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbusJf9LAISiG5Ldg4se_g_xvauVFUANlSJ6dX-lepdbox3wCevQt3JQy6GbC9smOy0S7TV29g5Fft9rrkKk8WYP9CpZLQ8XRB1d4n30iBlLy3E76jercKymF6NhSEGJ-9U53diJBinIAs/s1600/thumbnail_20190819_071709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbusJf9LAISiG5Ldg4se_g_xvauVFUANlSJ6dX-lepdbox3wCevQt3JQy6GbC9smOy0S7TV29g5Fft9rrkKk8WYP9CpZLQ8XRB1d4n30iBlLy3E76jercKymF6NhSEGJ-9U53diJBinIAs/s320/thumbnail_20190819_071709.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>On the weekend before the wedding, we had a severe<br />thunderstorm and our neighbor's tulip tree littered our yard<br />with it's canopy. Lisa - our neighbor - felt bad and wanted<br />to drag it to their yard for disposal. Their Irish Wolfhound,<br />Murphy, was of no help to her.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4aNAPzcgKBYRM44db-rQPbUzdBQG6ws5GVXjLVieV0aTTqqdQmdGw0PuszZs1abFfcN8QBETb4MnNQ9z7pKS9DVUeDqUTyASwG6y8BwiWR7X3ibJGnMBVyNasriHiCNaEl2jyOBItRaf0/s1600/Delaware%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="687" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4aNAPzcgKBYRM44db-rQPbUzdBQG6ws5GVXjLVieV0aTTqqdQmdGw0PuszZs1abFfcN8QBETb4MnNQ9z7pKS9DVUeDqUTyASwG6y8BwiWR7X3ibJGnMBVyNasriHiCNaEl2jyOBItRaf0/s320/Delaware%2521.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>The Downtown Delaware folks understood and were<br />helpful.</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfaMlMRI5I61x9G9SjXiAbaE7XDtT0F0vpFzw0xGgULmDJMUzI1NV1r15LztwUZ0qh_wqSjKvDeMfe8Dr5RBZZQebLgnOkbr3GwvqZupvbACTAWXqa_H1i73mnA3AZYP0Q0RMxiSz3hNc/s1600/69977427_10156373982532665_410320804429955072_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDfaMlMRI5I61x9G9SjXiAbaE7XDtT0F0vpFzw0xGgULmDJMUzI1NV1r15LztwUZ0qh_wqSjKvDeMfe8Dr5RBZZQebLgnOkbr3GwvqZupvbACTAWXqa_H1i73mnA3AZYP0Q0RMxiSz3hNc/s320/69977427_10156373982532665_410320804429955072_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Harbor Light Brewing in South Haven</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDy17jzVX3SiOsM0SznegeTzNjAWBL2yrL-NyyTf9sYS1Vg1Xaaa3dlDhumlPKYOze6dg2cm7QclwryXoSWxu8txSfeAABadWGlOyVMMKCE7DOpcB_tsQ4NC0ZhS9ofjVNx2aAtZWga2Ad/s1600/69008306_10156373968232665_4134680478017912832_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDy17jzVX3SiOsM0SznegeTzNjAWBL2yrL-NyyTf9sYS1Vg1Xaaa3dlDhumlPKYOze6dg2cm7QclwryXoSWxu8txSfeAABadWGlOyVMMKCE7DOpcB_tsQ4NC0ZhS9ofjVNx2aAtZWga2Ad/s320/69008306_10156373968232665_4134680478017912832_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>From the pier, South Haven at night</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0qNOFp2FWC21nJQVmcJ_att-oS1dVL887FUYUK9UE40II-mju6oNU9HAZZo0XC6lfYboLK-l2OirqPxt69dZ4yuUa2tRcgx0rJi5733nPevGc-Rcs1TAEkL7QxxLmPyQNStzehjICF5E3/s1600/69090884_499857477237541_7525869913433440256_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0qNOFp2FWC21nJQVmcJ_att-oS1dVL887FUYUK9UE40II-mju6oNU9HAZZo0XC6lfYboLK-l2OirqPxt69dZ4yuUa2tRcgx0rJi5733nPevGc-Rcs1TAEkL7QxxLmPyQNStzehjICF5E3/s320/69090884_499857477237541_7525869913433440256_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Reception cornhole</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-qrwkSuHWZJ_eKZ9vq3Kly-KkShUhXAcBeBcpfGff_QbAaI_qmQUJhu3R1zDgZQluVojJ6MWiilordaaYNZSE5r04ZdZgQIJVR8I6kHeXo7ZEfQM692vypcB6gw7pO59RRyVAvtxJpA1/s1600/69153981_117248659644653_1229446281244442624_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-qrwkSuHWZJ_eKZ9vq3Kly-KkShUhXAcBeBcpfGff_QbAaI_qmQUJhu3R1zDgZQluVojJ6MWiilordaaYNZSE5r04ZdZgQIJVR8I6kHeXo7ZEfQM692vypcB6gw7pO59RRyVAvtxJpA1/s320/69153981_117248659644653_1229446281244442624_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Lake Michigan in the summer.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmXPxjEQ-2AtPsOf5XtJwftBPGd3BlswdyTcqDRfud8TXO_uqloH3fRztd7aOVd3q2o5AR_B8xL_w4-NLnfvCjCmKjDM9IDusRyQwppyZAC3QlBLk0amsKT6SqOFrbRii0jSQBWiHbqID7/s1600/69253121_117043262998526_5953138466861613056_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmXPxjEQ-2AtPsOf5XtJwftBPGd3BlswdyTcqDRfud8TXO_uqloH3fRztd7aOVd3q2o5AR_B8xL_w4-NLnfvCjCmKjDM9IDusRyQwppyZAC3QlBLk0amsKT6SqOFrbRii0jSQBWiHbqID7/s320/69253121_117043262998526_5953138466861613056_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>L at Warren Dunes State Park</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA1i0B99SwGPkXuFdKdQqACe9o6tbMracWVTy7ielGdltUedLI1hmu39gupm6z7hvXaDFHivDBsRLdJbs-dq22JI543ud2oq0uLKUnufE1WOWIUXs4H0EN2iO-gdVsaaP1OJlGPWnRJs3k/s1600/69267647_113112780058241_4314452673563721728_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="960" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA1i0B99SwGPkXuFdKdQqACe9o6tbMracWVTy7ielGdltUedLI1hmu39gupm6z7hvXaDFHivDBsRLdJbs-dq22JI543ud2oq0uLKUnufE1WOWIUXs4H0EN2iO-gdVsaaP1OJlGPWnRJs3k/s320/69267647_113112780058241_4314452673563721728_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>The morning after the wedding</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7aXWLOW636BqYYWHrNK-7xI6FU4gGc6sYFouQUoxtbdDyCsyQQnUUtwv1FtRLYSkYoLf0xjLQb_XHMsiXMFbpem1wWjqjzcNZlEd4kzDSk4wS1DJiNiw75qO_cZuCUN-xL1YMnoRODRx/s1600/69291519_110821580287361_2331426046336827392_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq7aXWLOW636BqYYWHrNK-7xI6FU4gGc6sYFouQUoxtbdDyCsyQQnUUtwv1FtRLYSkYoLf0xjLQb_XHMsiXMFbpem1wWjqjzcNZlEd4kzDSk4wS1DJiNiw75qO_cZuCUN-xL1YMnoRODRx/s320/69291519_110821580287361_2331426046336827392_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> <b><i>One of the wedding cupcakes</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY_hMzVavTpnQHNstAWsHJmpxhxVJT9yoT_PUqk6EH1ilooZULrdUB6JQbFKxsuXgywXezmPmSfytfyaVHgx3O1JUaO3qoWIBt7OZ-EbCYBIcfbz7r5d8C2IEzLPALO0K5di5ZnvBE253K/s1600/69307971_117324232970429_2129498188980158464_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY_hMzVavTpnQHNstAWsHJmpxhxVJT9yoT_PUqk6EH1ilooZULrdUB6JQbFKxsuXgywXezmPmSfytfyaVHgx3O1JUaO3qoWIBt7OZ-EbCYBIcfbz7r5d8C2IEzLPALO0K5di5ZnvBE253K/s320/69307971_117324232970429_2129498188980158464_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Storm cell over South Haven</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88SR3PPAhO4g8scXqQTi5Zn8Tx8y153aKTP0BbSZC4ZvQ1kcF6clnx9QlWkCI3bl2KnKfW6gtcP-eTGC5cz3tF9OfLWnt0S9u1n1OTQIVfg0ExCog7TCCV6vy40deZPzody221IdG8BQO/s1600/69334854_10156373971217665_2705645859642540032_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88SR3PPAhO4g8scXqQTi5Zn8Tx8y153aKTP0BbSZC4ZvQ1kcF6clnx9QlWkCI3bl2KnKfW6gtcP-eTGC5cz3tF9OfLWnt0S9u1n1OTQIVfg0ExCog7TCCV6vy40deZPzody221IdG8BQO/s320/69334854_10156373971217665_2705645859642540032_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>The view from our B&B</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCyBIgq7A054gskbBSnGbjyoKfEUg7R5EF4AkK6PPTRgPFNa6o06DbAxtDjIBYA4AhxbctAzGf10Z-al_YeZoDV7Soni4c3VA-p8GLqtu-dTAtK45YiiSTAC0tAQd6Z3OHB3IENgTBYyXT/s1600/69335624_10156373970592665_210403318185328640_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCyBIgq7A054gskbBSnGbjyoKfEUg7R5EF4AkK6PPTRgPFNa6o06DbAxtDjIBYA4AhxbctAzGf10Z-al_YeZoDV7Soni4c3VA-p8GLqtu-dTAtK45YiiSTAC0tAQd6Z3OHB3IENgTBYyXT/s320/69335624_10156373970592665_210403318185328640_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaL22kX3-MY1dXn9oOwHIk5vlKjHwn_5buBNkh3OwZ98WEyMyUOOaj1WZ5jYckboemMgW8UkMtdlgm500GPUEaNz52Vd5FAn1rh6hVyLBzJVhbRd7AaAGu_kyhhh1Vky4vSYRotdNdDhQF/s1600/69478375_10156373977757665_4738774766435958784_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaL22kX3-MY1dXn9oOwHIk5vlKjHwn_5buBNkh3OwZ98WEyMyUOOaj1WZ5jYckboemMgW8UkMtdlgm500GPUEaNz52Vd5FAn1rh6hVyLBzJVhbRd7AaAGu_kyhhh1Vky4vSYRotdNdDhQF/s320/69478375_10156373977757665_4738774766435958784_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>At Saugatuck Brewing</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDDSinZ8WlA8KgsOwism_Sh6-DCK6QMK6BPWND5c1VFgHYN6-qFRXL7UYF-L5U_dum7vdhnArCuhGx91Xc5Ac5AmQSmeQ2rY64aoNu7SIUqx5uwJkwLw-NKGqM4_RHiVpH7qkeyJgamqbM/s1600/69722432_117248629644656_1342128983092756480_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDDSinZ8WlA8KgsOwism_Sh6-DCK6QMK6BPWND5c1VFgHYN6-qFRXL7UYF-L5U_dum7vdhnArCuhGx91Xc5Ac5AmQSmeQ2rY64aoNu7SIUqx5uwJkwLw-NKGqM4_RHiVpH7qkeyJgamqbM/s320/69722432_117248629644656_1342128983092756480_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Watching kitesurfers from the beach</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk274aSS4vLTPZ-wrTsoOAC2zIsakhf9rSGpEkSAaBi4bowL-xQKXtvPc9ORSsUrfOOL2bYz2XAQV8GimqPHxhI4zRkwAi4Ofb5HDDtLMYAaxKHgJebYWyg8Eih5bi8RqoW8o8s1CPE3Fb/s1600/69885361_10156376410662665_4769295680214663168_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk274aSS4vLTPZ-wrTsoOAC2zIsakhf9rSGpEkSAaBi4bowL-xQKXtvPc9ORSsUrfOOL2bYz2XAQV8GimqPHxhI4zRkwAi4Ofb5HDDtLMYAaxKHgJebYWyg8Eih5bi8RqoW8o8s1CPE3Fb/s320/69885361_10156376410662665_4769295680214663168_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlCzAe4Kkskw-6zSzdd5raWNkXJAHBuODK45k5Ec5emD-P6Aw09NMzlCromvjr_hLiLfPVd5e0gT-WN8FgJFPBT_EgpopK6n6iqQVQDuINttO5Iy1QC6jbYDQML94KqoB0U4QShrZc-tko/s1600/69963038_117157229653796_1259879569100374016_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlCzAe4Kkskw-6zSzdd5raWNkXJAHBuODK45k5Ec5emD-P6Aw09NMzlCromvjr_hLiLfPVd5e0gT-WN8FgJFPBT_EgpopK6n6iqQVQDuINttO5Iy1QC6jbYDQML94KqoB0U4QShrZc-tko/s320/69963038_117157229653796_1259879569100374016_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Crazy waves in South Haven</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUsJ1y-mC6d8pa0lyBCAbPyInEbvYpsI-BpV7DyT_U75SjIBhwHhfk8h5oOl4t2mhiKHvad-WdEu66UJxf9c5H83EzQaYNKaS3ltqzcntuD9OE-2tFUztl9JxQxeTLLDh4qbUw9BZmFi6/s1600/69683003_10156373982582665_6351078993701109760_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUsJ1y-mC6d8pa0lyBCAbPyInEbvYpsI-BpV7DyT_U75SjIBhwHhfk8h5oOl4t2mhiKHvad-WdEu66UJxf9c5H83EzQaYNKaS3ltqzcntuD9OE-2tFUztl9JxQxeTLLDh4qbUw9BZmFi6/s320/69683003_10156373982582665_6351078993701109760_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>L enjoying an unfrozen Lake Michigan</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmlL-5SE5pPTcAF6saNZwzcbV6JAQkodKtS1Jddr-aHH5Fz8tq1v7PnZ8MG18vpQcGgDA0_OgQfJRc7bVg-nslVfnx0WGku4Pu2jOSLR25vBZlMRtrCFxlwjH5KJlHVLWuDrsf0oAl-ih2/s1600/Inked51265849_539526499892039_1050226667601002496_n_LI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmlL-5SE5pPTcAF6saNZwzcbV6JAQkodKtS1Jddr-aHH5Fz8tq1v7PnZ8MG18vpQcGgDA0_OgQfJRc7bVg-nslVfnx0WGku4Pu2jOSLR25vBZlMRtrCFxlwjH5KJlHVLWuDrsf0oAl-ih2/s1600/Inked51265849_539526499892039_1050226667601002496_n_LI.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Warren Dunes in February</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJSeEdGj040-E3hBUWMquxnFE4XmeuU6lLRzxPk_QqU4xfOfGIpv3Fw7R2UOKjaXhR7pV9fPa-f8cPyYZKEtbmTy42cMbBN7U0xeg3bc3grzOu6_sCubIpoK6BktnBpehGm0nBlFqWNcg/s1600/70236645_505184540038168_2483404765480878080_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJSeEdGj040-E3hBUWMquxnFE4XmeuU6lLRzxPk_QqU4xfOfGIpv3Fw7R2UOKjaXhR7pV9fPa-f8cPyYZKEtbmTy42cMbBN7U0xeg3bc3grzOu6_sCubIpoK6BktnBpehGm0nBlFqWNcg/s320/70236645_505184540038168_2483404765480878080_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Warren Dunes in August</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><i><u></u></i></b><br />
<b><i><u></u></i></b></div>
Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1328721898084891708.post-14684698365620823922019-08-14T13:19:00.004-04:002022-03-18T12:00:13.505-04:00Don't Mind the Maximum Security Safe in the BasementAssumptions can get you into trouble, but then sometimes your assumptions are right on target - which can be just as disheartening.<br />
<br />
Our neighbors, the folks on the other side of the duplex, let us know about a month ago that they had planned on moving soon to a place with more room. They were a friendly, quiet group - keeping to themselves mostly, but would make conversation when we were both outside. One day this past spring, after we had purchased some seedlings, they voluntarily moved those seedlings into our carport when a blustery storm rolled through suddenly while L & I were at work keeping our precious plants from their one-way ticket to the merry ol' land of Oz.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkXcTh-xZkAVQG_ieThj4ufzK7rZJG5da47WFy43aymtJa9X-UVIp8WR0ORvOA3Lnjm-NY9oC88FNci2QBkI0h209QRgdY1p5nF9YDHltq9zPaPehk_9KjdKxPSpk9SGZP7l6btDACc-Vt/s1600/truck.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkXcTh-xZkAVQG_ieThj4ufzK7rZJG5da47WFy43aymtJa9X-UVIp8WR0ORvOA3Lnjm-NY9oC88FNci2QBkI0h209QRgdY1p5nF9YDHltq9zPaPehk_9KjdKxPSpk9SGZP7l6btDACc-Vt/s320/truck.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>No, not a scene from a gangster<br />film. Just next door in present day<br />Central Ohio.</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They were mostly indoor people and rarely used their backyard, which allowed us to us their portion for extended activities when we wanted. They were more than decent neighbors, so it would be hard to complain. Though, they had an odd schedule of random visitors. At any time, a vehicle would arrive and folks would make their way inside for anywhere from five to fifteen minutes, then leave. If they were accompanied by someone, that person (or persons) would simply stay in the vehicle. Now & then those who arrived were alerted they need to come back at a later time for whatever reason. And these folks were never the same, it always folks who were new to us and the neighborhood<br />
<br />
For awhile we paid little attention, then it became more frequent with an even more mixed bag of random folks. We joked to ourselves as to what was going on, then L was approached by an employee of our landlord at her place of work.<br />
<br />
He asks<i>, "So, what do you think of your neighbors?</i>"<br />
<br />
<i> "They are quiet and seem to be nice people", </i>she says<i>.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"Do they have a lot of visitors?", </i>he says in a prompting tone.<br />
<i> </i><br />
<i> "Yeah, they do. A random string of cars almost daily."</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Shaking his head in agreement,<i> "That's what I thought. We've had your neighbors mention it to us."</i><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMmzQQJUbyM8lLyhMBKhvUmWy60puBye-I4cQV_FEX0_0yv9Uibg4FkHQRISFudzwJslZsn3Rqni-CywGYDNkOo9b8vc1wLJ8Oqn6SdH2uLdDdgdn97as0oR1Wf7NJkjuzm_qj3NiteCBb/s1600/thumbnail_20190801_070926.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMmzQQJUbyM8lLyhMBKhvUmWy60puBye-I4cQV_FEX0_0yv9Uibg4FkHQRISFudzwJslZsn3Rqni-CywGYDNkOo9b8vc1wLJ8Oqn6SdH2uLdDdgdn97as0oR1Wf7NJkjuzm_qj3NiteCBb/s320/thumbnail_20190801_070926.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Apparently, the nonessentials</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Since we had only witnessed the random arrivals and departures - as well as the handful of security lights they placed around the house - we just kept our thoughts to ourselves. On an off Friday for me during the last week of July, I was stretched out on our front room floor after a twelve mile morning run. I heard folks next door, but thought nothing of it. Then the sound of objects being moved about sparked by curiosity.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b></b><br />
<b></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
I get up to take a gander out the window where the sounds were coming from and I see a truck holding a giant safe with a digital lock that had been removed from their basement. I understand folks have safes and this one in particular could be one in which someone locks away their firearms, but I've witnessed too much goofiness happening next door to truly believe this is for anything of that nature.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I head outside moments later to play in our carport and I see our next door neighbor, Lisa, working in her yard. I stroll over and casually ask if she sees what is in the back of the truck. Her eyes light up, <i>"I guess it could be a gun safe, but I've never seen them with anything. If that isn't it," </i>as her eyebrows raise and lips begin to pucker, "<i>I don't WANT<b> </b>to know what's in it." </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
This was also my thinking.<br />
<br />
No one seems to be living there anymore, but someone does swing by every few days to pick up some of the things they left - a random assortment of appliances and non-essentials. Of course, we could be just feeding our wild imagination as to what was taking place over there and they were just popular folks who held home security in high regard. Though they aren't too worried about the security of the <a href="https://www.hellofresh.com/"><i>HelloFresh</i></a><i> </i>meal kit box delivered two days go that continues to rest near their front door.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilEdU9gmBYJWqiMDgu1TD1fDjp5TaOsqVWSm_kph9RBIA3Fu6etSm_UDvSCMNte3PVYDQsrQKJm8bwxLh6vFjSYT8TPX4tGjXdphM3P2RXqt5yHDguI65-rFSiwYhrCjSWSejVXASKsqlt/s1600/zbrambmu7twky27u._cropped.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilEdU9gmBYJWqiMDgu1TD1fDjp5TaOsqVWSm_kph9RBIA3Fu6etSm_UDvSCMNte3PVYDQsrQKJm8bwxLh6vFjSYT8TPX4tGjXdphM3P2RXqt5yHDguI65-rFSiwYhrCjSWSejVXASKsqlt/s200/zbrambmu7twky27u._cropped.jpeg" width="200" /></a>From the moment <i>we </i>moved in our other neighbors introduced themselves and we have become a small community family with no reason to be vigilant about security as we tend to look out for one another. The only thing L and I would want to be more secure about is warding off those damn rabbits who have eaten just a many of our garden tomatoes as we have, leaving the half eaten portions still attached to the vines - like children sneaking cookies out of the jar but forgetting to replace the lid.<br />
<br />
Sooner or later, one of those cute little produce bandits is going to slip up and L & I will enjoy some smoked hare while using the soft cuddly pelt to wipe the BBQ sauce off of our faces as it's horrified mammal family watches from the edge of the creepy woods in our backyard as punishment.<br />
<br />
Anyway, having signed up for it several months ago because I thought it would be cool to return to where I used to live - we made a weekend trip to Akron for the<i> </i><i><a href="https://raceroster.com/events/2019/18932/goodyear-half-marathon-10k?fbclid=IwAR3m2wTTOEvJSQZbzrcC18ElKO_NV7DDgPnY5-UjzlXrPnmQQmFTrR8KmVE">Goodyear Half Marathon & 10K</a>.</i> A part of the <i><a href="https://www.akronmarathon.org/race-series/">Akron Marathon Race Series</a>,</i> this event starts on Goodyear's Akron Proving Grounds before making it's way to
the company's historic World Headquarters and campus.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
I lived in Akron for about three years (2006-2009) while working in radio and have only driven through since then. We would revisit some of my old hangouts, see where I used to work & live, and hit up some of the many breweries that dot the area as well as run a race that navigates many of the areas I once covered as a radio news reporter.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: start;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: left; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-right: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s1600/Final+Sport.jpg" style="clear: left; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="682" data-original-width="1024" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZDVQWI7byG9xswckJ6kvAQTodVzDRf9qMZDfCTQ-GZ5nMGUDYomESa8iT_z2kfZQ4CqhH9r02eAbumOedO7sGkx5zAGlF-lf5hT_b11OjjOSk6E3ckkSBpWxcXgt0SI44HxxJ5BfVezPo/s200/Final+Sport.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i>**We back EVERY pair with </i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><a href="https://shadyrays.com/pages/official-live-hard-warranty-overview" style="color: #de7008;">FREE Replacements</a> if Lost or Broken</i></b><b style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>**</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="background-color: #f6f6f6; color: black; float: right; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; padding: 4px; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s1600/DH4A7305.jpg" style="clear: right; color: #de7008; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsMvaxVHfzZ75tuPTmHlni94JOwN7jxEFwWPol50qaAn2hyyTpMqnR4GgYdKEvIB3IiJHaQk0t_O5S4sU5ahD-tteZ4rGSiVzORnbsAFmjkt3XE8SPrr3-Ebx8pM18jPlYNELw2bRXDrGT/s200/DH4A7305.jpg" style="border-width: 0px;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>**Each order also secures 11 meals </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b>to fight hunger through </b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><b><a href="http://fabackup.feedingamerica.org/optimized-homepage/?_ga=2.251139073.647855481.1504895789-1536808043.1504895789" style="color: #de7008;">Feeding America</a>**</b></i></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: start;">
<b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></b><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></b><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></b><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif;"><b style="background-color: transparent;">We are an independent sunglasses company </b><span style="background-color: transparent;">for those who don't want to buy from a massive, faceless company that has been operating the same way for decades </span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: #f6f6f6; font-family: "trebuchet ms", trebuchet, verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; text-align: start;">
<span face=""trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif"><b><a href="http://shadyrays.com/" style="color: #de7008;">shadyrays.com</a></b></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGLqs1CgYqHdf3DJs4PSOE61C6F7xEbpzu6-qW1hEhlLFTg9h9IkHWbpYH7vFgZ5scVk2JFGmp2s8iqtY0LI-pXVYE4i5nNP_HvqjBZzWqAgb9-oJMRM7urUsNEKPl6QmgC79cEb_BT7F/s1600/shady+rays.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQGLqs1CgYqHdf3DJs4PSOE61C6F7xEbpzu6-qW1hEhlLFTg9h9IkHWbpYH7vFgZ5scVk2JFGmp2s8iqtY0LI-pXVYE4i5nNP_HvqjBZzWqAgb9-oJMRM7urUsNEKPl6QmgC79cEb_BT7F/s320/shady+rays.png" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
What made the half marathon event challenging was it's course. Wanting to test myself on some less than level terrain, the race would have a slight decline and return to level ground for the first five miles. Then beginning with mile six we would have a yo-yo like up and down until the final two miles. For L, she had the benefit of running the 10k portion and miss the backend roller coaster ride.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidHlHtMMQ6wqV9iB2T5GLYh5yUkcpI6IkqrNgz0Puuw6wEVXvZA7YsTKOfplrDr3xNnmPpqTEMg2N20qX9VHFcJqV8a7OwClg4EoBA4oTC6lwfcNFt9mriNdfm90Q6bipx7yG_b7nb7l20/s1600/route.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="646" data-original-width="847" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidHlHtMMQ6wqV9iB2T5GLYh5yUkcpI6IkqrNgz0Puuw6wEVXvZA7YsTKOfplrDr3xNnmPpqTEMg2N20qX9VHFcJqV8a7OwClg4EoBA4oTC6lwfcNFt9mriNdfm90Q6bipx7yG_b7nb7l20/s320/route.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
With it being mid-August, we lucked out in having mild summer weather. It was bright and sunny, but a high of 60 at race time. The pink partly cloudy sunrise at the 6:30 start was quite refreshing. Having the half marathoners and 10k participants go at the same time meant forcing myself to not go with the faster crowd and be patient.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I think I did a pretty good job of this, using some of the 10k-ers to keep it up-tempo but not out of my realm. Cruising along with a small group, things are comfortable and with mile one at 6:08 I'm happy with my pacing. This mixed group of male & female 10k and half marathoners keeps bouncing in and around one another as we trail a much faster group that seems to be slowly separating.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This stress free pace feels really good and despite mile two being a bit slower (6:15), I'm still just as swift as I want to be. Our group, too, begins to thin out. The 10k folks drift ahead, but I keep them within striking distance and use them as my pacers. As we hit mile marker three (6:22) there is a reggae band jamming away, I point to them as I go by thanking them for their effort. The lead singer yells back - in mid song - <i>"No, you the man!". </i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We are headed back toward where we started along the slight incline. I'm just behind about four or five, but I hear no one behind me and stick to my current pace with mile four at 6:26. At this time, I'm well aware each mile thus far has been a bit slower. Wanting to end that trend, a push just enough on the uphill to satisfied my mind. Sure enough, as mile five arrives I'm at 6:22 and the 10k & half marathoners reach their split. The small group I've been following becomes even smaller and larger uphill portion begins. I'm about 30 meters behind the nearest group, but I'm keeping pace - otherwise, I'm on an island.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggfg6Gmh2pHacz7L1Kd0iohL-Fxtt8uNNTiEXp9ipMt5YmnIFjJl-XUXo-jUIn-wS6w4tGEPK99QPyqnzggfja8StMNxSDD5ccwcQoZMZ_n1qW26MUT7sPiIW34l-O30K2qLELuexNnJT7/s1600/race1.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="594" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggfg6Gmh2pHacz7L1Kd0iohL-Fxtt8uNNTiEXp9ipMt5YmnIFjJl-XUXo-jUIn-wS6w4tGEPK99QPyqnzggfja8StMNxSDD5ccwcQoZMZ_n1qW26MUT7sPiIW34l-O30K2qLELuexNnJT7/s320/race1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Race day morning on the test track was a bit ridiculous</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Focusing on mechanics and methodically working the hill I see one of those just ahead is falling behind and I'm quickly gaining. Just beyond mile six (6:33), I pass him and his body language indicates he isn't doing to well. <i>"We're halfway may, lets go!</i>", I yell as I drift by hoping some encouragement would benefit him. <i>"I know.", </i>he replies and within seconds I can't hear him anymore. Now working a downhill, the group ahead is still about the same distance away and I'm using them to keep focus and pull me along the mile seven decline (6:18).<br />
<br />
As promised the rolling residential hills are in full swing and as I work the elbows & knees mechanics, and in between the official water fueling stations, a few residents have set up their own race watching parties. They offer support as well as a cold shower of the garden hose variety for you to run through, which are greatly appreciated. Miles 8 & 9 (6:33, 6:36) sees the group ahead thinning out, some move further ahead but I'm slowly reeling in the trailer.<br />
<br />
At this point, with each passing mile, I repeat to myself how much is left. A little personal motivation (<i>Okay, just four miles to go; less than a 5k now, you got this</i>) works through my mind as the mile 10 (6:24) decline is precursor to the winding uphill of mile 11 (6:44). The locomotive-like running motion is in full swing, but I still feel slow. From the onlooking residents I hear some encouragement, <i>"At top of the hill you have less than 2 1/2 to go!" </i><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvoqBZ3t-93Nqn5IufDWcKiUk_9Rt0yurQVwzpdoL2H3PzhjSOcm0IQeJWPap2454MrlW4ctQOIyrZkF7qHvRURMkgPvaX_xi5xB6O-AKwN5wJ1RooWghoc61q-2nMSdtelt3viKXR6ESq/s1600/68326254_10156322041677665_385303139621797888_n.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvoqBZ3t-93Nqn5IufDWcKiUk_9Rt0yurQVwzpdoL2H3PzhjSOcm0IQeJWPap2454MrlW4ctQOIyrZkF7qHvRURMkgPvaX_xi5xB6O-AKwN5wJ1RooWghoc61q-2nMSdtelt3viKXR6ESq/s320/68326254_10156322041677665_385303139621797888_n.jpg" width="180" /></a>Reaching the aforementioned summit, the course turns left and we have the full view of the Goodyear Headquarters Campus below. It is nearly all downhill to the finish and I let the momentum force the leg turnover while using my arms to keep upright. Quickly gaining, then finally passing, that figure I had been creeping up to for the last 15 minutes along mile 12 (6:18), I wondered if he is just playing possum in order to return the favor moments later.<br />
<br />
My wrist vibrates from the buzzing of my watch indicating one mile to go and I'm working the arms & legs as the course flattens out a bit. Passing the remaining 10k-ers as the courses merge back together, I hear footsteps from behind. To my surprise, it isn't the gentleman I passed moments ago. It is another and he is on his horse, drifting by and increasing his lead with every step. Not sure where he had been the whole time I stick to my effort and reach the final stretch into Goodyear Headquarters and the race clock is in the 1:24 range - here I notice L hanging over the barrier on my right and yelling at me to push all the way through.<br />
<br />
Cruising through and stopping my watch, I look around and see only race volunteers with finisher's medals. An official comes up to me and I ask, <i>"Where is the water?"</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"It's just ahead," </i>she says and hands me a lanyard "<i>and congratulations! You finished third in the masters division!"</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"No shit!", </i>I say without thinking and with a wry smile,<i> "Um...I mean, No way! That's awesome!"</i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPL5MZjSWtOnhyphenhyphenyytxrPVdbc1aEtMBJ9jY4eShhZX4Z78JVBHiQ8Eg_hCTPlL3HspYXqCm7qb9DaVsOYzqWs_xkqyvH4u4cRu1QXnUPxl3PhfplIz_XDj71JPDgwk0QP7qCf6PY4rXODa/s1600/68804298_490348794855076_6739236748976455680_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPL5MZjSWtOnhyphenhyphenyytxrPVdbc1aEtMBJ9jY4eShhZX4Z78JVBHiQ8Eg_hCTPlL3HspYXqCm7qb9DaVsOYzqWs_xkqyvH4u4cRu1QXnUPxl3PhfplIz_XDj71JPDgwk0QP7qCf6PY4rXODa/s320/68804298_490348794855076_6739236748976455680_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Finishers!</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;">She laughs at me, </span><i style="text-align: left;">"Make your sure you stick around for the awards ceremony!" </i><span style="text-align: left;">Turning to her race volunteers, </span><i style="text-align: left;">"Get this man some water!"</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i></i><br />
<i></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Without sounding perturbed, just tired, I offer her my unsolicited opinion, <i>"You need to have the water closer to the finish line." </i>(It was a short walk beyond the finish)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>"We will keep that in mind for next year, thank you," </i>she says, sounding sincere and not like I was telling her how to run the race. It was an out of the ordinary cool race for mid-August, but if it were any other were we would have all melted by this time.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My watch says 1:24:39, my second best half marathon and 45 seconds from a PR - <i><a href="https://www.mtecresults.com/race/show/8054/2019_Goodyear_Half_Marathon_%2526_10K-Half_Marathon">placing 17th out of 848</a>.</i> This is significant in the fact that it the elevation here was much higher than the PR, indicating - at least on this day - an improvement on pacing on a less than level course. Shortly thereafter, L finds me and we load up on post race food, including free <a href="http://swensonsdriveins.com/swensons-menu/"><i>Galley Boys</i></a> from <i><a href="http://swensonsdriveins.com/">Swenson's</a>. </i>This is the best double cheeseburger you will ever have, just saying. Search it out if you ever find yourself in Northeast Ohio.<i> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
She tells me she finished with a two minute 10k PR, 51:05 - placing 143rd out of 1,335. Not bad for someone who started running less than a year ago. My age group award was an insulated drink holder/mug, which was pretty cool. Though, it didn't compete with the Goodyear Blimp ride and set of new tires the overall winners received. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiApNlZayxeov1N5SZhunjKB9y5h4LhWUZouGVS9Bt2JkENg50tXRVej2iPUAeIMBfUrWmuLoTGxGTKN843z22j7uyaD-m6Aiw0H_FGVgEShDhNDMX09gp-PP-eWfv6kn90xipRCwiCpg6u/s1600/Mayor+Ink.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiApNlZayxeov1N5SZhunjKB9y5h4LhWUZouGVS9Bt2JkENg50tXRVej2iPUAeIMBfUrWmuLoTGxGTKN843z22j7uyaD-m6Aiw0H_FGVgEShDhNDMX09gp-PP-eWfv6kn90xipRCwiCpg6u/s320/Mayor+Ink.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Hard to see, but that's my orange <a href="https://www.bibrave.com/">BibRave</a> hat</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Something else pretty cool took place at this event, <i><a href="https://www.runnersworld.com/news/a28677255/jeannie-rice-half-marathon-age-group-world-record/?utm_medium=social-media&utm_campaign=socialflowFBRW&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwAR1I5E__szqWfAVp_8Rv_bta_qrNhrrce1vNDma5Ox8Ji0AmYAfaztp4A0E">71-year old Grandmother Jeannie Rice of nearby Mentor, Ohio broke the 70-plus Women's World Half Marathon Record </a></i>with a 1:37:07 - it took my first three half marathon tries to run that fast! She broke her age group<i> <a href="https://www.chicagomarathon.com/">world marathon record in Chicago last October</a></i> and is hoping to continue breaking records starting with the <i><a href="https://www.bmw-berlin-marathon.com/en/">Berlin Marathon</a> </i>next month. I'm just glad I beat her, she's a beast!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A couple of days afterward I found a selfie photo taken by <a href="https://www.akronohio.gov/?fbclid=IwAR2SUmG3aZtzrW7tR4VMBM8zHFXG2rDpywKEJquKGAzHX8wrpMYe0yG8Ls4"><i>Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan</i></a> with the race crowd behind him and, yes, I'm there and it makes me laugh. Why? I was a radio news reporter in Akron about a decade ago and covered Akron City Council weekly. Mayor Horrigan, at that time, was a council member and I spoke with him countless times. And now, there we were in the same picture - but in different capacities - ten years later. I don't miss radio, but I do miss portions of Akron and the surrounding area - it exudes history.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So, L and I are less than two weeks away from officially completing <i>The Wedding Summer</i> (August 25th)<i>. </i>With most of the prep work in place, it is now all about putting it into practice and producing an actual ceremony & reception without too many hiccups and speed bumps. I will be squeezing in the <span style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/CanalWinchester/Blazin5">Blazin' 5 Miler: A Southeast Scorcher</a>, </i>a local race with some<i> <a href="https://www.columbusrunning.com/">Columbus Running Company</a> </i>cohorts, the weekend before in hopes of breaking the 30 minute five mile barrier - but it is probably more of a way keep myself sane for a few days.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: center;">The Summer is winding down, but we are just getting started and are ready to take the plunge. Are there some butterflies about the deep waters ahead? Of course there are, but I think we have enough Chlorine to </span><span style="text-align: center;">help oxidize those</span><span style="text-align: center;"> undesired contaminants....</span></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHoS4Xz0L4M">Penelope Isles - Chlorine</a></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>You left your head out<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I hope it clears<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Your swollen ears<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>You laugh your head off<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>For all these years<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>And all those tears<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>You made it worse</i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Jump in with all your clothes<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>And break your nose<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>The depth, who knows?<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Chlorine you itch my feet<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>You make me clean<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Or so it seems<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>You make me smell a certain way</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><i><u>Photos</u></i></b><br />
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7CFizNdJSkRqA3MIp_vl5ygjsB1Ce2UCoSsGDlJjzTHILUv0vgo64BTRWuPNQM1SB5b1ZlQq4iCCE79MYPWjrZwc3naBm6VerdU9i4Ffe2tsqItm6AdNmYDnWyxX2D4rWO9dHk33w4Ue/s1600/67823171_10156324836812665_7258430692277616640_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7CFizNdJSkRqA3MIp_vl5ygjsB1Ce2UCoSsGDlJjzTHILUv0vgo64BTRWuPNQM1SB5b1ZlQq4iCCE79MYPWjrZwc3naBm6VerdU9i4Ffe2tsqItm6AdNmYDnWyxX2D4rWO9dHk33w4Ue/s320/67823171_10156324836812665_7258430692277616640_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>A flight from Massillon's </b></i><a href="https://paradigmshiftbrew.com/"><i><b>Paradigm Shift Craft Brewe</b></i>ry</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><i><u><br /></u></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEbrYMSbPkwpC8Y3wmZR2RtnjS9XB-w7QTTZlO2-xWIfpuMVExHMieBvvgeNE5pfReJhWOca_XTOTIkqo_8o5qe-Bo7TyNS8N4Zrnk_oRrQnDp_bQcncOAJgKkh7eUu3v999WMD8rnRYOr/s1600/67838650_10156320504957665_986109609099919360_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEbrYMSbPkwpC8Y3wmZR2RtnjS9XB-w7QTTZlO2-xWIfpuMVExHMieBvvgeNE5pfReJhWOca_XTOTIkqo_8o5qe-Bo7TyNS8N4Zrnk_oRrQnDp_bQcncOAJgKkh7eUu3v999WMD8rnRYOr/s320/67838650_10156320504957665_986109609099919360_n.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Akron's <a href="https://akronymbrewing.com/">Akronym Brewing</a></b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitRON-Y7LW5ITVzxLQjRJ93bazPJo51x7-OLqlDsCoo1NC9Hbgq4vgn697q2tZgYuqCTPZ2eDMGY1XaCQu-Z6LYSKfAxa9GLSc8KUgsND47xds2NWFZxxcA0DgFdO_hXSLBmJQezdcXEM/s1600/67875012_10156322933517665_3501622441984131072_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgitRON-Y7LW5ITVzxLQjRJ93bazPJo51x7-OLqlDsCoo1NC9Hbgq4vgn697q2tZgYuqCTPZ2eDMGY1XaCQu-Z6LYSKfAxa9GLSc8KUgsND47xds2NWFZxxcA0DgFdO_hXSLBmJQezdcXEM/s320/67875012_10156322933517665_3501622441984131072_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>At <a href="https://hihobrewingco.com/">HiHO Brewing Company</a> in Cuyahoga Falls</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJLkJ7gXgPoaSPX2PCeZVtbzqReeIIPeS-pP-zvkupk75PvBGBEgyu94QJCOghUF30oVRwYCZFmjI_WuOg0QM8krJQsTPQnnjZVDtQ5jT3vnyfbt9lT__m7NXjG87S6wq_du6_58eyjce2/s1600/67883657_10156323180822665_1107272934327582720_n.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJLkJ7gXgPoaSPX2PCeZVtbzqReeIIPeS-pP-zvkupk75PvBGBEgyu94QJCOghUF30oVRwYCZFmjI_WuOg0QM8krJQsTPQnnjZVDtQ5jT3vnyfbt9lT__m7NXjG87S6wq_du6_58eyjce2/s320/67883657_10156323180822665_1107272934327582720_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="https://www.lock15brewing.com/">Lock 15 Brewing Company</a> in Akron</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5lyXsEDdqM8AlGKmODf0UUpGB_NVRURREznLGI8xBfh1897EsOtb1lethie8rNbqWlFqQP9o4MTIDiF3KjSzp96R4lz2RPSvc3-bfEJ8KA6gBtTfArVhE5c0IEaacXehQLiMdoPkwqwwS/s1600/Inked+2.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5lyXsEDdqM8AlGKmODf0UUpGB_NVRURREznLGI8xBfh1897EsOtb1lethie8rNbqWlFqQP9o4MTIDiF3KjSzp96R4lz2RPSvc3-bfEJ8KA6gBtTfArVhE5c0IEaacXehQLiMdoPkwqwwS/s320/Inked+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Preparing for takeoff </b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGcYe0TsyPUkajjrb84Vp_lX7tjkHMGSzbOgKUJvV3R9feEqxBHbwT5Gg9MEZ0d8W5AXsvd7NpV5WyURdvG8m7RktPVUIaUr2g074xbQaYO7sQyf1bhUhLq5SsJYgEi8LmvdFewAFyXo9S/s1600/67898906_10156322041767665_157715841968766976_n.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="528" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGcYe0TsyPUkajjrb84Vp_lX7tjkHMGSzbOgKUJvV3R9feEqxBHbwT5Gg9MEZ0d8W5AXsvd7NpV5WyURdvG8m7RktPVUIaUr2g074xbQaYO7sQyf1bhUhLq5SsJYgEi8LmvdFewAFyXo9S/s320/67898906_10156322041767665_157715841968766976_n.jpg" width="176" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Race SWAG</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Wp9C1a5XNnUPvN6mliqghESls3OCJ-BU2aW8EiAAsqJi38OUwYS3rz2BdIR93r4Q79OhygnDUCeTzg_HNN7hJpBYh02hdpnEwbcOnqNIBnxKOqEOSYIkmNBgZHfFUFscMciFnLUoaCh7/s1600/190810GK2447.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Wp9C1a5XNnUPvN6mliqghESls3OCJ-BU2aW8EiAAsqJi38OUwYS3rz2BdIR93r4Q79OhygnDUCeTzg_HNN7hJpBYh02hdpnEwbcOnqNIBnxKOqEOSYIkmNBgZHfFUFscMciFnLUoaCh7/s320/190810GK2447.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>The final stretch</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfH_89lmoFIiUOJCZfncOwx1JVO-utsZwIuy6-8YDrWHNr35JNExm8wcjMS-fWooEagDRtpL5RYHQZJ8_s-Aygz7rUtE6LLHOL2eJfiP4psCbKK6c9JS1-eCZhiWGc1-VgayvkQVGraAa/s1600/190810TP1320.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkfH_89lmoFIiUOJCZfncOwx1JVO-utsZwIuy6-8YDrWHNr35JNExm8wcjMS-fWooEagDRtpL5RYHQZJ8_s-Aygz7rUtE6LLHOL2eJfiP4psCbKK6c9JS1-eCZhiWGc1-VgayvkQVGraAa/s320/190810TP1320.JPG" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Finishing!</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCjl3NcfcnUfHnr2YluvqbZU5blAKWJqBJfn-SuIPG2RUbGci7PJxfyZubAACI5l9ngoknnStIxayKZ7Ifl7xwgU9XN3UKb7b6mt3jbY8xsfb0tB5seJdB2IRa5vmrhPAZKyARmmpeUy4/s1600/190810AD0848.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxCjl3NcfcnUfHnr2YluvqbZU5blAKWJqBJfn-SuIPG2RUbGci7PJxfyZubAACI5l9ngoknnStIxayKZ7Ifl7xwgU9XN3UKb7b6mt3jbY8xsfb0tB5seJdB2IRa5vmrhPAZKyARmmpeUy4/s320/190810AD0848.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Third place, age group...and still holding my post-race beer.</i></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
Craigerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02059562316874051209noreply@blogger.com1