Oh what a beautiful mornin', oh what a beautiful day".. No, we are not in Oklahoma but those words from the musical were so applicable on my run from 6 am until 7:30 am from outside Topeka, Kansas on a rural and historic country farm road leading into Lawrence, Kansas, home of U. of Kansas, and beyond.

Sean handed off the baton to me ahead of schedule but I was in no hurry to do a tempo run but to enjoy the moment and just finish on time. As I have mentioned many times on this run, for me it is not about racing but taking in what I am experiencing. Yes, at times I will throw in a tempo segment unless hobbled by foot or groin discomfort.

This morning I felt good but wanted to enjoy the scenery and the sunrise. It was a warm and humid morning, the kind I enjoy. At first I felt pretty sleepy and sluggish, having arose at 2 am after finally falling to sleep around 12 midnight.

But soon I began enjoying this historic two-lane road ( highway 40 ) that was dotted with many silos, wheat and corn fields, barns, and small ponds..

To my amazement and delight, nearing five miles into my run I noticed throngs of onlookers on both sides of the road, I was so happy that there would be so many to turn out in the early morning hour to watch ME run by. Who would have thought this would happen. I mean we have run many times with no one coming out to cheer us on. Well, actually recently there have been many to come out and run with us but for me this was special because it was just me running and the masses were looking at the old one. I waved in delight, held both arms up as to say "thank you my adoring fans, thank you"! I even waved my hand to motion them to come join me in the run. I began picking up the pace wanting to show them I could still run a pretty good tempo. I think I impressed them.

I too was impressed with the diversity of the crowd. There were young, middle age and seniors. All of a sudden many of them began darting off. Others began looking at me with a kind of snarl posted on their face. Had I done something wrong? Offended someone? I couldn't believe it when they all began running, At first I thought they were running with me but no, away. Some were in such a rush they ran right through a small pond! I did try to sing and maybe that frightened some of my adoring fans but most like my singing or at least they say they do. Well, the crowd finally dispersed and I was left alone to my thoughts again. It was sure exciting while it lasted.

I guess those cows and their calves had had enough of watching me run and sing and wave and yell at them, I probably overdid it. Maybe I will not be quite so theatrical the next time.Maybe is was the mustache. Had they never seen a mustachioed runner before? You think it was because I am from the south? Hey, I don't even eat steak of hamburger anymore. I can say that I ran with the bulls or cows or they ran away from me....;WHATEVER!! I'M OVER IT FOR HEAVENS SAKE!

I made it to the outskirts of whatever that city I mentioned earlier where U.of Kansas is located. I am so perturbed. I handed the baton off to Brynn. Sean, Sunil, Andy and I hoofed it to a nearby McD's!

Yes, a very moooooving morning run to say the least. Time to sleep and get ready for who knows what when I run from 7:30 am until 9 am. For now, time to get needed sleep. Maybe it was all a dream. Hey, there was a crowd. Cows count don't they?

Peace and blessings to you and yours.
"Water is Life, Pass It On"!
Lansing