Trails today..

Shannon and I met early (well, early-ish) parking one car at American Camp and drove back to town to meet up with the rest of the girls.

We left a little later than expected (shoul've been a little less *ish* and a bit more *early*) making both Stacie and Susan turn back earlier to make it back in time to pick up darlings from school.  Meghan and Deb went the same difference but chose to do an out and back, when considering the time crunch.

The weather felt perfect, allowing tank tops or perhaps just minus a jacket.  Shannon and I went straight through American camp cutting over to Jakals Lagoon and Mt. Finlayson.  Peaking first into the woods then cussing our way up to the top of the mountain.

Did I mention it was beautiful?

like.... really beautiful.

Once you reach the top... there's a sense of accomplishment... plus the part where the worst/hardest part is behind you.  Practically all downhill from there practically...

We finished strong ending back at American camp where the car was parked... holding delicious cookies and chocolate milk (a perk of running far).

Shannon's watch (gps) read 12.0 while my smarty pants phone read 12.6... (I'll take my reading)

short long

At the moment there is a group of about 8 women that are training for Rainshadow Racings DECEPTION PASS 25/50K .  Most of us have signed up for the 25k (15.53 miles).

Our longest run for this period of training has been 12 miles (or 12.5 depending on whos GPS watch/phone you trust more) The 25k is a trail run, so we're doing our best to run on as many as possible.  Running trails is a tricky bit, adding roots, rocks and narrow grooves to tired legs.  Making the less coordinated a tad less comfortable.

Today was our SHORTlong run... 8 miles.  Being November we where layered a tad thicker than normal, still attempting to find the perfect balance.  The four of us headed out hoping that our fifth friend would find us on the road.

Starting out faster than normal.  Out of breath me was happy to stop for a short moment, for our catching up friend.  Not that the stop or the slow lasted very long.  With fresh feet we picked it back up and continued through the foggy, hilly roads.

I forgot my music... but this song kept *running* through my head. 

Ending on a downhill, always helps for an apparent strong finish.

Where are my (!!!!!!!!) shoes?

It's the day after (TOO MUCH CANDY) Halloween... and if I'm allowed to say... running should really happen today.

But, where are my shoes?

I dress the part, search the house...
Quiz the darlings.

*grumble grumble*

Pull on rain boots.

Get the girls to school.
Search my car...

No shoes.

Wait in our usual waiting spot.
Talk with BooBoo, wait for others.

Spry Shannon shows up with "Hills today right?!"
quietly relieved I can't find my shoes.