8/3/2015
After a few spurts of hail the clouds parted and the sun reappeared. We had plenty of time to relax at the Shawano Super 8 and we took advantage of every minute.
I peeked out the window early in the morning and saw nothing but clear skies. I consumed a few danish pastries and a waffle for carbohydrates but kept my intake light. I threw a few pieces of fresh scented sportswear and prepared to hit the road when Crystal gave me news that I had an interview with a local paper. With that news, I propped my legs on the couch, laid back and closed my eyes. I drifted off until Crystal gently tapped my arm. She whispered, “It’s time to check out.” The reporter had not arrived and I still needed to complete thirty miles. We made the decision to cancel the interview and make tracks.
My teeth chattered as I ran through the town and towards the trail. It had hailed the previous day so it made sense that the air was somewhat chilly. Of course I didn’t expect to be cold while running in the summer but, then again, I had encountered plenty of the unexpected on this trip.
I grabbed a quick bite five miles away. Crystal had parked right where the road crossed the MountainBay trail. We made a few quick sandwiches to ensure I had energy for the next sixteen mile stretch. My tummy had grumbled the entire five miles so the meal was an efficient pacifier. I grabbed my light thermal shirt to give me a little protection from the elements.
The next stretch saw the farmland merge with the mountain landscape. The vegetation transformed into conifer trees and fern plants. The soft soil gave way to large rocks and suddenly I saw why the trail was called MountainBay. I had never even felt the transition under my feet, never even noticed the slow incline. I had to swat a few flies off my head but other than that the trail brought me much serenity.
The temperature decreased as the day wore on. I found myself dashing towards patches of sunlight to warm myself. The clouds offered little opportunity for warmth. After running into a few cute little wild animals I found myself running in a trance. I could taste the fresh air. A few drops of water fell into my mouth and charged my soul. When I spotted the white Ford in the distance I decided to finish strong. I sprinted to the end and called it the day. A warm meal and a hot bath awaited me at the Best Western Wittenberg. I could hardly believe our recent good fortune with accomodations. It was as if we were being rewarded for all the hardship we had endured.
Leave a reply