Well, I certainly know where to come to get my ego stroked when I need it. Thanks, all. I think it was taken around Mile 22 judging by the scenery and because I still have my bottle/pack. I doubt I'll ever see such a good Mile 22 photo again. I feel guilty looking at sunshine and spring-like weather when so many are still suffering. If it's any consolation, it just means allergy season is fast approaching for me. The Flower and Garden show is going on at the Convention Center next door and it took me quite a while to find parking, trying several different lots. Coming into the office after 11:00 didn't help. (((CNY))). I hope your heart aches less today. Night can bring such intense emotions, I know. I should clarify I was very flattered by your choice of word the other day. Sure would love to meet you soon. Hopeful. I agree that it sounds like a groin pull. I think some time off is a good idea and icing couldn't hurt. Sue. Yes, yoga probably is helping your achilles. I chuckled at your comment about noticing pain free running. I remember one day thinking, hmmmm, something was different about my run and realized that's what it was, too. Tet. I'm at a loss as to why Roch and Ribs are givng you such a hard time. Poor Tet. Enke. I meant to respond the other day about Cougar Mtn. I've run a few of the races but never an entire series. They have become more crowded as they've gained in popularity and last time I ran one I was stuck in a single file-- no passing room -- jogging slowly, for quite a while. But it's a terrific series. Very fun and beautiful scenery, of course. Erika. You didn't ask, but my two cents. Unless you're aiming for a fast spring 5k race, stay away from those 400s. Track or no track. And certainly not this week. You're running a relay in 8 days! Ran around Green Lake last night with Luka, stopping to see the group at the track and giving my coach a report from Sunday. Luka is about 10 lbs. overweight. Must whip her back into shape for the Furry 5k in June. A few easy miles tonight and yoga on the docket. Yikes, what a ramble. Must be the coffee. Good humping...er, hump day to you all!

Shoot! I loved reading everything, but now (once again) I have no time to respond to everyone as I'd like...except, to add that it's a great photo, soundie--and you're in the air. My photos all have my feet on the ground, hmpf! So Ribs, you'll be changing your handle to something doughy, eh? Hope the clouds clear for everyone (who'll be up) for the eclipse! grins, A

6 miles in 59:00 nice and easy and pain free. Still running the dreadmill though due to the shoulder of the road not being cleared. Warmer weather for the weekend so hopefully by Sunday my long run can be on my old route and not in the garage. Soundie, heres more ego stroking. You can't possably be old enough to be in this group. Judging by those photos maybe 33. Good runs everyone

My real question is what do other localities do? Is simply locking up the tracks common practice?

I often run on the (new) outdoor track at South Windsor High school...it is closed but usually not locked. I've asked permission from any of the teams practicing if it is ok for me to run and some coaches have turned me away, but most say it's ok. It is particuliarly motivating to try to keep up with the HS girls track team (they are quick) -I have more trouble with the boys track team as they are a bit more macho-and talented-and try to 'beat the old guy' which invariably causes me to run a faster pace than I had planned... I've also done speedwork at the track in the early am on Thursdays-usually finishing as the busses are arriving. Many of the teachers will look out the window at me and just shake their head at me when I catch them looking over...just jealous, I guess.

Ok, Dark Horse is obviously not reading the daily anymore. Anyone know where he is at? Trail series - I totally expect to be stuck in a long line of slowbies like myself. I signed up just for a change of pace, to experience the trails and possibly to get a new hat at the end of all 4 races. I have simple aspirations.

Yeah, I figured it was worth a try. He didn't bite. Hopefully all is well. Oh yes, you will love the series. I may join you for one. You might think about joining SRC, too. 15% discount on all gear and sponsored races and alerts to special club events. I'd planned to go to this one last night but it's been postponed. Strictly because of the ultra theme, of course. Onscreen eye candy had nothing to do with it! http://www.seattlerunningcompany.com/indulgence_postponed.html

For starters, no run today. Our high school track is usually unlocked. I run there on rare occasion when I get to thinking I can still run fast without any negative consequences I'll bet one could get creative and come up with ideas that may help grease the skids toward using the locked up track. Good luck

3.3 miles....."Just running in the rain"....... One of the local high schools is open for public use AND has lights that stay on until midnight. As well, the local university has an indoor track that can be used IF you clear it ahead of time with the track team office. Their athletes have first rights on the track but if it is not being used/booked by them, the public is encouraged to enjoy it.......for no cost. They also have an upper concourse at the basketball center that available to be used for running. It is cement and I find that slippery to run on at times. However, on stormy days, it becomes a good option to consider. A nice day of posts in here today......starting in the west.......and going on from the rest.

I went for a quick nearly 5 miler before the last Varsity Girls basketball game at the HS! Ran an 8:57 pace in 44:02:06. Left by 4:10 and was able to get to the school with 3:00 left in the first quarter. The y lost in a great game in overtime. Chris