It's a gruel, gruel world

Someone let the air out of the 2006 balloon as 21 miles of slippery footing made today's long run a little bit of slog near the end.

21 miles in 2:54:56 (8:19 pace). HR 137.

I pulled up behind Mike's parked van this morning in the dark gloom of pre-sunrise. Mike emerged dressed for the weather but also fitted with the darkest pair of sunglasses I've ever seen. I doubted if he could even see me. So I called out to him, "Mike, you're wearing sun glasses!" "I know," he replied. "I expect it to be a sunny day."

Mister-plan-ahead.

We were rewarded three miles later with a blinding glare from a large sun towering over the maritimes and reflecting its rays off the crystal bay which further disoriented me. Mike didn't seem to mind it at all.

Elwood and I continued bravely into the light and snow.



We felt ok until we made the turn at 9 miles. The wind had picked up and it would be 9 miles into the cold, cold wind before we could turn out of it again.

With 5 miles to go, I felt like I was just a head riding precariously upon a body and legs that were carrying me around the lake. Mike used the term "falling forward" which seemed appropriate for today.

But the run is done and in the log. It cannot escape.


Happy New Year!