tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34770250834497728542024-03-14T05:07:45.869-04:00Bluegrass Tri ChickInjury prone, mid to back of packer just tri-ing to get to the finish line in one piece!Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.comBlogger201125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-59696312922630241882019-07-28T18:01:00.000-04:002019-07-28T18:02:05.206-04:00Dix River PaddleThis was the third time we paddled the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dix_River">Dix River</a> to Lake Herrington dam. Every time we have paddled it it has been a different experience due to rains & water releases from the dam.<br />
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One of the best put ins I have been to on the Kentucky River is at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/High+Bridge+Boat+Ramp,+Kentucky+River/@37.8259698,-84.723891,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xedb2be363e356e85!8m2!3d37.8259698!4d-84.723891">High Bridge boat ramp</a> just above Lock #7. It costs $4 per kayak to launch there but it is well worth it. The guy that tends the ramp does a good job clearing the mud from the ramp which is always a challenge along the Kentucky river.<br />
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We got an early start at 9AM which was nice since it was still cool & shady. From the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/High+Bridge+Boat+Ramp,+Kentucky+River/@37.8259698,-84.723891,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xedb2be363e356e85!8m2!3d37.8259698!4d-84.723891">High Bridge boat ramp</a> it is about a mile paddle to the Dix River. You will see the <a href="https://shakervillageky.org/the-river/">Dixie Belle</a> docked on your right & will go under <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_Bridge_of_Kentucky">High Bridge</a> before you get to the Dix River. The Dix will be on your right.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SVRIdtRvzO8/XT4RMMvV_wI/AAAAAAAAF_Y/HT-7BtTKtQAXkoyNnvAQro13MA_uD8W5gCLcBGAs/s1600/Kayaking%2BJuly%2B2019%2B-%2B16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SVRIdtRvzO8/XT4RMMvV_wI/AAAAAAAAF_Y/HT-7BtTKtQAXkoyNnvAQro13MA_uD8W5gCLcBGAs/s320/Kayaking%2BJuly%2B2019%2B-%2B16.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shaker Village Dixie Belle</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">High Bridge</td></tr>
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The last time we paddled this route in 2017 the current was pretty swift. Almost immediately when we turned into the Dix we crossed the debris area of where the Kentucky & the Dix meet. This time the debris area wasn't for another 1.5 miles up the Dix. The water coming off Lake Herrington is cold and on a hot day it is like paddling into a wall of air conditioning. This trip we didn't get that same experience. The water was warm & was murky for quite some time. The <a href="https://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?site_no=03286500">flow rate</a> was about 3500 cubic feet per second so the paddling was super easy & the reflections in the water were amazing.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a5_bp_9Zx7Q/XT4RNzlKIZI/AAAAAAAAGAU/mx07UlQBXgIeI0manl41wOP41Y7xGbDCgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Kayaking%2BJuly%2B2019%2B-%2B22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a5_bp_9Zx7Q/XT4RNzlKIZI/AAAAAAAAGAU/mx07UlQBXgIeI0manl41wOP41Y7xGbDCgCEwYBhgL/s320/Kayaking%2BJuly%2B2019%2B-%2B22.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flat water today</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Debris Area - Sticks, leaves, rootie-like things</td></tr>
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At about 3.5 miles from <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/High+Bridge+Boat+Ramp,+Kentucky+River/@37.8259698,-84.723891,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xedb2be363e356e85!8m2!3d37.8259698!4d-84.723891">High Bridge boat ramp</a> you will run into small rapids that you will need to portage around. It's a nice area to stop and take a break as well. In 2017 when we paddled this stretch I could not make it to the rocks due to the current. I also had a dog sitting on my kayak so that didn't help either. Coming back from the dam you can paddle through it. Super easy & fun.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bHOTPqm4kMI/XT4TQw4fSUI/AAAAAAAAGAk/652Qv6gDt1oiORnDON_5XXIXOCPj1qx5QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG-1797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bHOTPqm4kMI/XT4TQw4fSUI/AAAAAAAAGAk/652Qv6gDt1oiORnDON_5XXIXOCPj1qx5QCLcBGAs/s320/IMG-1797.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Portage area</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Palisade Reflections</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mQIZVpxgooI/XT4YKA-gckI/AAAAAAAAGBE/9pVntQkXpj4FD3HmNHDypn1Z_dihKHV-wCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG-1580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mQIZVpxgooI/XT4YKA-gckI/AAAAAAAAGBE/9pVntQkXpj4FD3HmNHDypn1Z_dihKHV-wCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG-1580.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Palisade Reflections</span></td></tr>
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After getting back in your kayak it's another 1/2 mile to the dam which is the end of the line for this paddle. The warning signs as you approach always get me. I wonder what it would be like to be on the Dix when they release water?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EzFHrpWJbCo/XT4ROqGF07I/AAAAAAAAGAU/hQqN2hTDuy0dcaShAk_T3UshM3Kq1VTMQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Kayaking%2BJuly%2B2019%2B-%2B28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EzFHrpWJbCo/XT4ROqGF07I/AAAAAAAAGAU/hQqN2hTDuy0dcaShAk_T3UshM3Kq1VTMQCEwYBhgL/s320/Kayaking%2BJuly%2B2019%2B-%2B28.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The sign says you have 2 minutes after alarm sounds before the water releases</td></tr>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NUej3EZ8xzw/XT4RO8VdbOI/AAAAAAAAGAU/I-MWMCQjIq0IByl39Cx7JOTIza50yRHuwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Kayaking%2BJuly%2B2019%2B-%2B31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NUej3EZ8xzw/XT4RO8VdbOI/AAAAAAAAGAU/I-MWMCQjIq0IByl39Cx7JOTIza50yRHuwCEwYBhgL/s320/Kayaking%2BJuly%2B2019%2B-%2B31.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such a good spot to cool off on a hot summer day</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me paddling the tiny rapid</td></tr>
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The paddle back was a little faster since we were going with the current. It took us about 3.5 hours total to paddle just under 8 miles at a leisurely pace.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">High Bridge from the other side</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-njMTchjHDj4/XT4RQbJzEJI/AAAAAAAAGAQ/J4lrFLYURUsgqPtvz80yC9N5ie51Bl6YQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Kayaking%2BJuly%2B2019%2B-%2B45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-njMTchjHDj4/XT4RQbJzEJI/AAAAAAAAGAQ/J4lrFLYURUsgqPtvz80yC9N5ie51Bl6YQCEwYBhgL/s320/Kayaking%2BJuly%2B2019%2B-%2B45.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">High Bridge Boat Ramp</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From 2017 - Captain Sammie</td></tr>
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<br />Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-52202831822479903222019-07-16T20:32:00.002-04:002019-07-20T12:59:29.486-04:00Holland - Pure Michigan<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This year we had an extra day off for the 4th of July holiday & we decided to go to Michigan for the extra long weekend. I picked <a href="https://www.holland.org/">Holland</a> which is about a 7 hour drive with a couple of short stops. It had been years since I spent a summer along Lake Michigan.<br />
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We loaded up our kayaks & bikes and left Lexington on Wednesday morning and got to our <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/grrho-residence-inn-holland/">hotel</a> about 3PM. Since this was a holiday weekend & a last minute decision our <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/grrho-residence-inn-holland/">hotel</a> was on the edge of town. The rooms were great & the access to all the sites was really easy.<br />
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Our first stop was the visitor center in downtown Holland and to check out some breweries. At the visitor center we picked up info for the area bike & hiking trails and the local <a href="https://www.holland.org/press-releases/handcrafted-passport-press-release">Handcrafted Passport books</a>. Our first brewery stop for the long weekend was <a href="https://newhollandbrew.com/pub-on-8th/">New Holland Brewing on 8th</a>. I got a flight of Tangerine Space Machine IPA, Mad Hatter IPA, Kombucha IPA & a Dark Dune Blueberry Stout. I enjoyed all the beers even the KIPA. I am a huge fan of Kombucha but didn't expect the KIPA to be that great. It was very drinkable although I would still prefer to keep my Kombucha & beer separate! The food was really good too.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Holland Brewing </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Holland <a href="https://www.tagabrew.com/">Tagabrew</a></td></tr>
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We walked a bit more downtown & then attempted to see the sunset at <a href="https://www.holland.org/holland-state-park-0">Holland State Park</a>. You can walk or bike in for free into all the parks but for cars there is a $9 daily fee. We decided to skip the beach walk since the park was only open for another 45 minutes & parked a couple miles down the road to walk along Lake Macatawa instead. After walking around for a bit we called it a night & headed back to our hotel.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Macatawa</td></tr>
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Thursday was the 4th of July. We grabbed a free breakfast at the hotel & then headed back to <a href="https://www.holland.org/holland-state-park-0">Holland State Park</a>. Our plan was to bike the <a href="http://visitgrandhaven.com/listing/lakeshore-trail/">Lakeshore Connector Trail </a>towards Grand Haven & then cool off in the lake afterwards. We got to the park about an hour after it opened so we got a good parking spot. The trail to <a href="http://visitgrandhaven.com/listing/lakeshore-trail/">Grand Haven</a> is about 20 miles one way. I had no idea if we would go that far but there were plenty of parks we could stop at along the way.<br />
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Once we got out of the park area the ride was great. Lots of shade along the route. Unfortunately, even though you are right next to the lake you don't get to see it very often. There are multi-million dollar properties that line this road between you & the lake. We made a couple of park stops along the way to check out the lake. We decided to turn around at Olive Beach & make our way back. There was no way we were going to make to Grand Haven AND back to Holland. We stopped for lunch at Sandy Point Beach House on our way back.<br />
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Once we got back to our car I changed into my swimsuit for a float in the water to cool off. Steve didn't bring his suit so he got to hang out on the beach with the 1000s of other folks. Being at this beach made me very nostalgic for my summers in Chicago during college. Everyone and their mother would go to the beach on those few hot summer days. Somehow in all the commotion of the people I didn't even get a photo of <a href="https://www.holland.org/things-do/historical/big-red-lighthouse">Big Red lighthouse</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QT-b8bet5mg/XS0gJCd3URI/AAAAAAAAF3k/MF5vNFsUdkwVt46tvNencpiGH6IyveYPQCLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B2%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QT-b8bet5mg/XS0gJCd3URI/AAAAAAAAF3k/MF5vNFsUdkwVt46tvNencpiGH6IyveYPQCLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B2%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lakeshore Connector Trail</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pigeon Creek - We would later kayak under this bridge</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.holland.org/outdoor-recreation/beaches/kouw-park">Kouw Park</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.miottawa.org/Parks/olive_shores.htm">Olive Shores Beach</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch Stop</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.holland.org/holland-state-park-0">Holland State Park Beach</a></td></tr>
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After cooling off we packed up & went back to the hotel to shower. We spent the evening in downtown Holland. First up was <a href="http://biglakebrewing.com/">Big Lake Brewing</a>. I got a flight & an appetizer. The flight tray was the shape of Lake Michigan. I sampled Mighty Mac IPA, Big Lake Camper New England IPA, Locked Out Pale Ale, Lake Haze New England IPA, Leroy Brown - a Brown Ale and Michi-gander a Session IPA. Every single one of their beers were amazing. I couldn't pick a favorite, they were all excellent. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So many great beers to choose from</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Lake Brewing <a href="https://www.tagabrew.com/">Tagabrew</a></td></tr>
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After we finished our beers we walked around Holland. Thursday evenings they have <a href="https://www.downtownholland.com/attractions/arts-culture/street-performers/">street performers</a> all over downtown. We went back to New Holland Brewing for dinner since they were the only brewery open regular hours on the holiday. Around 9PM we made the walk down to <a href="https://www.cityofholland.com/parksandcemeteries/kollen-park-heinz-waterfront-walkway">Kollen Park</a> to watch the fireworks. They shot the fireworks off a barge in Lake Macatawa. The city put on a great show. Afterwards we walked back to our car & headed back to the hotel. Holland isn't a big town so even though there was what seemed like a lot of people traffic wasn't bad at all.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.downtownholland.com/attractions/arts-culture/street-performers/">Street Performers</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.downtownholland.com/attractions/arts-culture/street-performers/" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Street Performers</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting for the fireworks</td></tr>
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Our plan for Friday was to kayak. It took a few attempts to find a suitable put in place but Steve found the perfect one. The rivers were high so the first couple places we looked at didn't work. Pigeon Creek ended up being a great little spot. It's about a mile or so from Lake Michigan & you can also go further down the creek to explore. We did both. The further away from the lake you went the more lily pad like stuff in the water. Not sure what the official name for it is. We initially didn't realize we could paddle under the road (remember bike photo above?) to get to Lake Michigan. On the other side of the road there were a lot of jet skies & big boats playing in the water or heading to the big lake. We decided to paddle to Lake Michigan. The Lake was very choppy by early afternoon but we made it. I took a couple of snaps & then headed back to our car. We were getting hungry. We spent a little over 2 hours paddling around & were ready for lunch. Next visit I would put in at the same place but head straight to the lake. There is a park just north of where we popped out along the lake that we could paddle to & then hang out on the beach. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Put in next to parking lot. Super easy. Porta Potty next to lot</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EaUyN4z-L9g/XS4t5_L26SI/AAAAAAAAF7M/gyN8v5zHcUAuZjJaQjob4mkRtujEllqGgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B1%2B%25286%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EaUyN4z-L9g/XS4t5_L26SI/AAAAAAAAF7M/gyN8v5zHcUAuZjJaQjob4mkRtujEllqGgCEwYBhgL/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B1%2B%25286%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Made it to Lake Michigan! It was choppy by early afternoon</td></tr>
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For lunch we headed to <a href="https://cityofzeeland.com/">Zeeland</a> to check out <a href="http://tripelroot.com/tripelroot/">Tripelroot Brewing</a>. Zeeland has a super cute downtown area and its about 15 minutes from Holland. We ordered italian sandwiches & beer of course. They had what I thought was a perfect <a href="http://tripelroot.com/portfolio-item/training-session/">beer</a> but unfortunately didn't have any currently on tap. I took home a 6 pack just because I loved the concept so much. The other beers & the sandwich were very good. So far, we were 3 of 3 on breweries!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dhSqTtT8k0M/XS4y9Grj_8I/AAAAAAAAF7k/ptAJkWPaLCA7pESIyrQOSSkF5ggJo-dwACLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B21%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dhSqTtT8k0M/XS4y9Grj_8I/AAAAAAAAF7k/ptAJkWPaLCA7pESIyrQOSSkF5ggJo-dwACLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B21%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tripelroot.com/">Tripelroot</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UzqOVTnv-TU/XS4y9F-pTII/AAAAAAAAF7o/3Y_d3W8ZmZcBs3uJxg6sesgxlJGopqYhwCLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B22%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UzqOVTnv-TU/XS4y9F-pTII/AAAAAAAAF7o/3Y_d3W8ZmZcBs3uJxg6sesgxlJGopqYhwCLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B22%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://tripelroot.com/" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Tripelroot</a> - Beer for my lifestyle!</td></tr>
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After lunch we headed back to the hotel for a nap & eventually showers before checking out <a href="https://www.saugatuck.com/">Saugatuck</a> for dinner. I had been to Saugatuck years ago & new it was an artsy coastal feel of a town. We got lucky & found a parking spot right along the river. This is another town that lots of people from the big cities come to in the summer. High rent district! For dinner we settled on <a href="http://www.mittenbrewing.com/">Mitten Brewing</a>. I got a flight of beers & a couple of ciders and we split a pizza. The beers were good but I'm just not a cider fan. Too sweet. One sip is plenty for me. The pizza was really good. After dinner we walked to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Charlies-Round-The-Corner-Ice-Cream-186393681411323/">Charlies Round the Corner </a>for ice cream. Vacation isn't really vacation without ice cream! We then sat by the river & watched the boats go by. Such a peaceful place!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3BxsIDv6O4U/XS41RJVzbrI/AAAAAAAAF78/rkl8zuaKovkDT5pQSMX_a2S9Om8siX9qgCLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B1%2B%25289%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3BxsIDv6O4U/XS41RJVzbrI/AAAAAAAAF78/rkl8zuaKovkDT5pQSMX_a2S9Om8siX9qgCLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B1%2B%25289%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.saugatuck.com/">Saugatauk</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r5hbQbpe4TQ/XS41REwvFjI/AAAAAAAAF8A/LycHhUI8rVcmrqSeNE1hsHreKU1wPH6_gCLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B2%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r5hbQbpe4TQ/XS41REwvFjI/AAAAAAAAF8A/LycHhUI8rVcmrqSeNE1hsHreKU1wPH6_gCLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B2%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.saugatuck.com/" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Saugatauk</a> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oMuFzzk7lqk/XS41RrbVocI/AAAAAAAAF8E/Oaw2sM7XWMg9bFImDmHVYTfZFll1AGZ-gCLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B3%2B%25283%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mittenbrewing.com/">Mitten Brewing</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2To_HmrG2AI/XS41R7z7BbI/AAAAAAAAF8I/B0MUK9cf17YLoTfXaT7vLfGuLZO4dAe7wCLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B4%2B%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2To_HmrG2AI/XS41R7z7BbI/AAAAAAAAF8I/B0MUK9cf17YLoTfXaT7vLfGuLZO4dAe7wCLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B4%2B%25283%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.saugatuck.com/" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Saugatauk</a></td></tr>
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Saturday of course was run day so we went to <a href="https://www.holland.org/outdoor-recreation/hiking/stu-visser-trails">Stu Visser Park</a> to run from there. I thought it would be shady but I was very wrong. It was a full sun run that time of day. We got our run done & headed to the <a href="http://www.hollandfarmersmarket.com/">Holland Saturday Farmers Market</a>. We got a couple slices of watermelon, a glass of Kombucha and the famous <a href="https://www.realblueberries.com/Donuts">Bowerman Blueberry Donut</a>. Oh so yummy! No pics of any of this. Everything jumped right into my belly! We picked up a quart of strawberries & blueberries on our way out to eat later.</div>
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Since we didn't get much of a beach day yet I suggested we go to <a href="https://saugatuck.com/directory/oval-beach-2/">Oval Beach</a> in Saugatuck. It is listed as one of the <a href="https://www.saugatuck.com/saugatuck-named-one-of-30-best-beach-towns-in-the-world/">worlds best beaches</a> so we had to check it out. We got there just after noon & to my surprise the lot wasn't full yet. We grabbed our chairs & found a place to settle in. The beach was great & although a lot of people were there it wasn't as busy as Holland State Park was on the holiday. The water was a perfect 71 degrees. Chilly when you first got in but very refreshing and perfect to float around in. We floated around for a while then just sat in our chairs soaking it all in. It was such a great day. Not too hot, not too cold, just perfect. I'm not normally a beach person but this was so relaxing. We hung out for a couple of hours before packing up to grab lunch.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vb6NRUdMsvI/XS5i0LOOTKI/AAAAAAAAF80/s2QVQHZK2rAkqixfvUohcktjcrMLdqvpACLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B1%2B%252811%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="508" data-original-width="1600" height="101" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vb6NRUdMsvI/XS5i0LOOTKI/AAAAAAAAF80/s2QVQHZK2rAkqixfvUohcktjcrMLdqvpACLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B1%2B%252811%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oval Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zfr6oPI-5ic/XS5iyKx4hpI/AAAAAAAAF8k/41LSo2LWhH45WxAh8dsiYvdRAPBz_B25ACLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B3%2B%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zfr6oPI-5ic/XS5iyKx4hpI/AAAAAAAAF8k/41LSo2LWhH45WxAh8dsiYvdRAPBz_B25ACLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B3%2B%25284%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oval Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WijajCiyP78/XS5i0ACz7SI/AAAAAAAAF8w/uKRGMqeYX7QY-ca-u4WhkpOkGDbv8GOPgCLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B6%2B%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WijajCiyP78/XS5i0ACz7SI/AAAAAAAAF8w/uKRGMqeYX7QY-ca-u4WhkpOkGDbv8GOPgCLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B6%2B%25283%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oval Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zRUhytGkdnQ/XS5ixobpDpI/AAAAAAAAF8g/5We-ZrdAtIQu9QYQYB-EcAj69RcwBUP2ACLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zRUhytGkdnQ/XS5ixobpDpI/AAAAAAAAF8g/5We-ZrdAtIQu9QYQYB-EcAj69RcwBUP2ACLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B31.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oval Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mpuWqU96Ifc/XS5izrE8vCI/AAAAAAAAF8o/F1GwYGPK7fwr2-iNKD-65Lq3eBQOzn-fgCLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mpuWqU96Ifc/XS5izrE8vCI/AAAAAAAAF8o/F1GwYGPK7fwr2-iNKD-65Lq3eBQOzn-fgCLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B32.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oval Beach</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bZd0PoTstN0/XS5jNaHDXFI/AAAAAAAAF9M/2Uo2Me1E-nUkwS7_3CUA9LSh28EEwniHgCLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B5%2B%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bZd0PoTstN0/XS5jNaHDXFI/AAAAAAAAF9M/2Uo2Me1E-nUkwS7_3CUA9LSh28EEwniHgCLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B5%2B%25283%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oval Beach</td></tr>
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We left the beach about 2:30PM & the parking lot was packed. Guess folks come out later in the day. Our next brewery stop was <a href="https://saugatuckbrewing.com/">Saugatuck Brewing</a>. This was probably my least favorite brewery for reasons outside of their control. The parking lot was a giant cluster. It wasn't big enough for the brewery & the antique mall that shared the lot. It took awhile & some patience to get a spot. Once in we had about a 10 minute wait. I got another flight but decided to try some non-Pale Ale & IPAs. I ordered a couple of Blondes & a Blueberry Lemon Shandy in addition to the IPAs. Big mistake. I don't like Blondes at all. Couldn't even finish them. The Blueberry Lemon Shandy was drinkable but not my favorite. The IPAs were all good. It still surprises me how much I like IPAs now since I used to feel the same way about IPAs as I do Blondes. Oh well. Glad I like them since everyone seems to brew them in mass amounts!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r7yOoGUbxgY/XS5kyTzxefI/AAAAAAAAF9c/d8zskzOCNv8wRpyu_HW-xSeRxpD2gWWrgCLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B1%2B%252812%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r7yOoGUbxgY/XS5kyTzxefI/AAAAAAAAF9c/d8zskzOCNv8wRpyu_HW-xSeRxpD2gWWrgCLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B1%2B%252812%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saugatuck Brewing</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Su1f5xMEpAY/XS5kyQnbCiI/AAAAAAAAF9Y/UkBjifPtTwYeq4heUJVv8q4MLWHKKVEJQCLcBGAs/s1600/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B2%2B%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Su1f5xMEpAY/XS5kyQnbCiI/AAAAAAAAF9Y/UkBjifPtTwYeq4heUJVv8q4MLWHKKVEJQCLcBGAs/s320/Holland%2BMichigan%2B2019%2B-%2B2%2B%25284%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saugatuck Brewing</td></tr>
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Our last evening in Michigan was spent in downtown Holland. The first stop was <a href="https://ourbrewingcompany.com/">Our Brewing</a>. We hung out on their back patio & both drank a Pale Ale. Afterwards we stopped at <a href="http://biglakebrewing.com/">Big Lake Brewing </a>again to get appetizers & drink some more of their beer. Plus wee wanted to grab some to-go beers to bring home. Our next stop was <a href="https://newhollandbrew.com/sidecar/">New Holland Side Car </a>for more beers to go. We had sampled so many great beers we wanted to take some home with us. We then carried our beers to <a href="https://www.kilwins.com/stores/kilwins-holland">Kilwins</a> for one last vacation ice cream. Our last stop of the evening was <a href="https://www.cityofholland.com/parksandcemeteries/centennial-park">Centennial Park</a> to see the <a href="https://www.holland.org/holland-oz-project">Wizard of Oz Exhibit</a>.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Brewing </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kilwins Ice Cream</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Michigan Beer Haul</td></tr>
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We packed in a ton of fun over the long weekend. Holland & the surrounding area is awesome. They have such a coastal feel to them which I absolutely love. I so want to go back for a week & rent a house near the beach. I truly forgot how wonderful northern summers are & how amazing Lake Michigan is!</div>
Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-38677997310175432592019-05-27T20:09:00.001-04:002019-05-27T20:09:40.240-04:00Oregon - Pacific Wonderland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This was our non-Rolling Stones vacation. We planned this trip around the Rolling Stones Seattle show but in March they delayed it due to Mick having a heart valve replacement. I figured we would be lucky if they rescheduled and to our surprise they did. Unfortunately, we were notified of the new date the second day we were in Oregon. I say unfortunately because if we knew a day or two prior to leaving I would have chosen to delay this trip. Oh well, first world problems for sure.</div>
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We flew Southwest out of Louisville since they have a 2 free checked bag policy as well as no fees if you reschedule your flight. They also had the lowest fares to Portland. The no fees have come in very handy a couple times now. We had to cancel our trip to Arizona last November due to eye surgery for Steve & we had to change our return flight home since the show had been cancelled. </div>
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We arrived into Portland late Wednesday night & stayed at a hotel about 6 miles from the airport. We woke up on Thursday super early, like 4:30AM since we were both still on the EST zone. We were up, showered, ate, checked out and headed to the Columbia Gorge by 8AM. I didn't have any specific plans for this trip other than spending the last 3 nights in Portland. We were definitely winging it for the first part of the vacation. We decided to visit waterfalls the first day. First stop was the famous <a href="http://www.oregon.com/attractions/multnomah_falls">Multnomah Falls.</a> We were able to hike up to the bridge in the photo but due to the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eagle_Creek_Fire">2017 Eagle Creek</a> wildfire large portions of the trail were still closed. We saw lots of green recovery but the trees showed the charred scars from the fire. </div>
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Next we stopped down the road at <a href="https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Wahkeena_Falls_Hike">Wahkenna Falls</a>. A good part of the trail at <a href="https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Wahkeena_Falls_Hike">Wahkenna Falls</a> was open which we hiked for a few miles. You could see fire damage on the trees but the trails were very green. We made one more waterfall stop at <a href="https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=parkPage.dsp_parkPage&parkId=107">Bridal Veil Falls</a> before heading to Mt Hood.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Multnomah Falls</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Multnomah Falls</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Multnomah Falls</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near Wahkenna Falls</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridal Veil Falls</td></tr>
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On our way to Mt Hood we stopped at <a href="https://mthoodbrewing.com/">Mt. Hood brewery</a> in Government Camp for lunch & our first Oregon flight of beers. The food & beer were good. We were fans of their Pale Ale & IPAs but not the other beers so much.<br />
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After lunch we drove another 20 minutes to <a href="https://www.timberlinelodge.com/">Timberline Lodge</a>. Mt Hood was completely socked in when we got there. They had quite a base of snow and there were a lot of people skiing still. A couple of the higher elevation runs stay open all year. Initially I wasn't sure if I wanted to stay here but as we walked out to check out the patio Mt Hood made a very brief appearance which decided it. It also helped they gave us $70 off the room as a walk up. I am so glad we decided to stay. The lodge is so cool & interesting. It was built in 1936 as part of the <a href="https://www.historichotels.org/hotels-resorts/timberline-lodge/history.php">WPA</a> and the detail was amazing. We spent our evening exploring the lodge & drinking some more Mt. Hood beers.</div>
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On Friday we were up early again and woke up to light snow falling. We spent the early hours in the communal lodge area drinking coffee & soaking in the place. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Timberline Lodge Patio</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt Hood! View from the patio</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Timberline Lodge</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tilework at Timberline Lodge</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of Many Wood Carvings at Timberline Lodge</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uUonzkxfU0M/XOrLbp2cskI/AAAAAAAAFog/4eJNnJV5jJwRRDHPDHW_nGtHPWeAPuFVACLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uUonzkxfU0M/XOrLbp2cskI/AAAAAAAAFog/4eJNnJV5jJwRRDHPDHW_nGtHPWeAPuFVACLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B176.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snowing! FYI - We were on the second floor.</td></tr>
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As we drove down the mountain the snow quickly turned to a steady rain but eventually cleared out to be a beautiful day. We were headed south to <a href="https://smithrock.com/">Smith Rock State</a> park. On the way we stopped in the town of Madras at the Black Bear Cafe for breakfast. They had good food & way cheaper than the lodge breakfast.<br />
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We got to Smith Rock around 12:30 & the parking lot was packed. We figured it would be super busy on the trails but surprisingly the trails didn't feel busy at all. We saw several rock climbers as this was a popular place for climbing. We spent about 2.5 hours hiking the loop. It was a picture perfect day. The sky was so blue with lots of puffy clouds. The temperature was good but the winds were 20+ mph. One side of the rock was no wind but the other side was quite the wind tunnel. This was such a beautiful place to hike. The photos don't do it justice!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a3RUkY4aZQI/XOrN3ON68_I/AAAAAAAAFo8/mLCoAMWxMmk926dcj-Y2VpW7MJw5ALDaACLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a3RUkY4aZQI/XOrN3ON68_I/AAAAAAAAFo8/mLCoAMWxMmk926dcj-Y2VpW7MJw5ALDaACLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B178.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smith Rock State Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CU5nshULxXg/XOrN3EyAahI/AAAAAAAAFo4/ztqdIX3pYkULcGdtHlmwMnBHJtuYIw3PgCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B179.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CU5nshULxXg/XOrN3EyAahI/AAAAAAAAFo4/ztqdIX3pYkULcGdtHlmwMnBHJtuYIw3PgCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B179.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smith Rock State Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7hdmefVaAIA/XOrN3WNZYSI/AAAAAAAAFpA/-A1WgrE9V7cdxI8ysK2_rOWrgL9PTWw9wCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7hdmefVaAIA/XOrN3WNZYSI/AAAAAAAAFpA/-A1WgrE9V7cdxI8ysK2_rOWrgL9PTWw9wCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B191.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smith Rock State Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6iZJWTEyo90/XOrN4INQR9I/AAAAAAAAFpE/UbK19rGn04Q7TXA-frx82H-gX4ULWvSSgCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B197.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6iZJWTEyo90/XOrN4INQR9I/AAAAAAAAFpE/UbK19rGn04Q7TXA-frx82H-gX4ULWvSSgCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B197.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smith Rock State Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rJUbTCYfm9I/XOrN40J6XSI/AAAAAAAAFpI/-HezOsDn69U1Hm9KtqXTgCnU0k-SxfB6QCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rJUbTCYfm9I/XOrN40J6XSI/AAAAAAAAFpI/-HezOsDn69U1Hm9KtqXTgCnU0k-SxfB6QCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B205.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smith Rock State Park</td></tr>
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After our hike we headed to <a href="https://www.deschutesbrewery.com/pubs/bend/">Deschutes Brewery</a> in Bend for a late lunch & another flight. Although the beer was good out of all the breweries we went to this was probably my least favorite.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-drEpgCbxles/XOrPGzY5z5I/AAAAAAAAFpg/rdorVSWIrxk2642MYTtEObqFllJqdy3WgCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-drEpgCbxles/XOrPGzY5z5I/AAAAAAAAFpg/rdorVSWIrxk2642MYTtEObqFllJqdy3WgCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B209.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gkLitJvRQF0/XOrPGzO_VFI/AAAAAAAAFpk/8jXTA9aJaN4RkAJBsbgubtUaABz6wCHjwCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gkLitJvRQF0/XOrPGzO_VFI/AAAAAAAAFpk/8jXTA9aJaN4RkAJBsbgubtUaABz6wCHjwCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B214.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deschutes Brewery</td></tr>
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After we ate we were contemplating camping for the night. It was the only night that called for no rain but the problem was the low was supposed to be in the mid 30's which was a tad too cold for the gear we brought. After a quick search I found a <a href="https://www.sistersmotorlodge.com/">motor lodge</a> in Sisters to check out. They had one room left & after we took a look we booked it. It was a tiny room with a kitchenette but perfect for our needs. We could have spent a week in <a href="https://www.ci.sisters.or.us/">Sisters</a>. It is close to Bend & close to so much hiking. We definitely want to go back here for a longer stay.<br />
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We walked around the town after we checked in. Most shops close around 6PM but the restaurants were still open. We didn't bother with dinner since we had such a late lunch.<br />
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Saturday morning was run day. There was a really nice trail right in town, <a href="https://bendtrails.org/trail/peterson-ridge-trail/">Peterson Ridge Trail</a>. It was cool as it has an East trail & a West trail with several connectors to make it whatever distance loop you want. The entire loop is 20 miles. Steve ran about 6 miles of it. I hiked to the store & then did about 3 miles on the trail. Would have loved to rent bikes & ride the entire trail. After the run we grabbed coffee & scones at <a href="https://www.sistersbakery.com/">Sisters Bakery</a> before heading west towards the coast.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the Sisters</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset in Sisters</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Friday nightlife in Sisters</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s99pX4EGUT8/XOrVu3RWTKI/AAAAAAAAFqg/Z16NAY9ITZ01CrZt3gZ4yrQoF_NRl8FLgCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s99pX4EGUT8/XOrVu3RWTKI/AAAAAAAAFqg/Z16NAY9ITZ01CrZt3gZ4yrQoF_NRl8FLgCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B259.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peterson Ridge Trail</td></tr>
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On our way out of Sisters we stopped at <a href="https://www.campshermanstore.com/">Camp Sherman</a> at the <a href="https://www.hikespeak.com/trails/head-of-the-metolius-river-hike-oregon/">Head of the Metolius</a> to check out the camping since this was a recommended place. The area was beautiful & would have been a perfect place to stay with our hammocks. Ultimately, we decided to keep driving west to see what the day would bring.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XIyctha2Zmw/XOrVu3IcIWI/AAAAAAAAFqk/Ti6CArFwoUYs8Wm2oMYoLNjoye5WmWrfQCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B261.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XIyctha2Zmw/XOrVu3IcIWI/AAAAAAAAFqk/Ti6CArFwoUYs8Wm2oMYoLNjoye5WmWrfQCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B261.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aG3hL6LE2Ao/XOrVuhsvJPI/AAAAAAAAFqc/2crxmJjqdTciGW5zyhSnCbDaqdy7rqmTACLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B262.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aG3hL6LE2Ao/XOrVuhsvJPI/AAAAAAAAFqc/2crxmJjqdTciGW5zyhSnCbDaqdy7rqmTACLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B262.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Metolius River</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bjBSKxVpDC4/XOrVxfpIOGI/AAAAAAAAFqo/Nhnrkpnw-gcWBaWX6ME37kg1nh6tH9zkwCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bjBSKxVpDC4/XOrVxfpIOGI/AAAAAAAAFqo/Nhnrkpnw-gcWBaWX6ME37kg1nh6tH9zkwCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B265.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Metolius River</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NR6Jqyjg__M/XOrVyLUIJrI/AAAAAAAAFqw/dXBOsm-XCl4inqqCUrJVBJfQlnIOrRgGgCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B268.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NR6Jqyjg__M/XOrVyLUIJrI/AAAAAAAAFqw/dXBOsm-XCl4inqqCUrJVBJfQlnIOrRgGgCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B268.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camping along the Metolius River</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t7Wwf-m1rwc/XOrVyAkBSRI/AAAAAAAAFqs/GoEHZNJO8yE0YnISMiW_EWfrlWAo19epQCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B269.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t7Wwf-m1rwc/XOrVyAkBSRI/AAAAAAAAFqs/GoEHZNJO8yE0YnISMiW_EWfrlWAo19epQCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B269.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Across from Camp Sherman Store - Metolius River</td></tr>
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Our next stop was a hike along the <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/deschutes/recarea/?recid=39248">Pacific Crest Trail & the Old Summit Trail 4014</a> in Deschutes National Forest. There was a tremendous amount of devastation still evident from the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B%26B_Complex_fires">2003 B&B Complex</a> fire. It made for such interesting scenery as the tall trees were all burned out but there was lots of regrowth at the lower levels. We did a 4'ish mile out & back hike on the PCT. As we gained elevation there was still snow on the trail.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Along HW 20 - Mt Jefferson</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me - New growth is not much taller than I am</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3EU7dvonYQo/XOrYJrB4uuI/AAAAAAAAFrg/cS_PkT11I38EKNY6uVkPX58cJg_S0LoVACLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B286.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="898" data-original-width="1600" height="179" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3EU7dvonYQo/XOrYJrB4uuI/AAAAAAAAFrg/cS_PkT11I38EKNY6uVkPX58cJg_S0LoVACLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B286.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Summit Trail 4014</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FkoOWphHxzo/XOrYJCl6pSI/AAAAAAAAFrY/R40SQrjTJFUY7Ra6JPDk3bC3gZCx_dz_wCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FkoOWphHxzo/XOrYJCl6pSI/AAAAAAAAFrY/R40SQrjTJFUY7Ra6JPDk3bC3gZCx_dz_wCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B287.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Summit Trail 4014</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C4oDY_G9DwE/XOrYJFnhuhI/AAAAAAAAFrc/BhDP5V6G8msbjnjRiVSKcLpVDWiYqtAGACLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C4oDY_G9DwE/XOrYJFnhuhI/AAAAAAAAFrc/BhDP5V6G8msbjnjRiVSKcLpVDWiYqtAGACLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B288.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Summit Trail 4014</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We made one last hiking stop at <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/willamette/recreation/recarea/?recid=4344">Hackleman Old Growth Grove</a> in Willamette Forest before the rain really started. This hike was about a mile long & it smelled like Christmas! When we got back to the car is started raining & continued to rain the entire way into Newport.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GtSvK2HWnRA/XOrZx65oyOI/AAAAAAAAFsA/QLN-pMUkQ8stxpwmG-NU67ltHLMMKZhjwCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B290.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GtSvK2HWnRA/XOrZx65oyOI/AAAAAAAAFsA/QLN-pMUkQ8stxpwmG-NU67ltHLMMKZhjwCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B290.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HmH3qERgJ7U/XOrZx6LUVHI/AAAAAAAAFsE/4IWlf-MP5ysvt2NfPpe9wOGo0ogrKSqQQCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HmH3qERgJ7U/XOrZx6LUVHI/AAAAAAAAFsE/4IWlf-MP5ysvt2NfPpe9wOGo0ogrKSqQQCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B293.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hackleman Old Growth Trail</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Again no place picked out to stay so we ended up at a Motel 6 within walking distance to <a href="https://www.rogue.com/locations/brewer-s-on-the-bay">Rogue Brewing</a>. Rogue was hands down my favorite brewery of the entire trip. Motel 6 was my least favorite hotel of the trip, ha. Rogue beers on tap are so good & so much better than what we get in cans in Lexington. After dinner we walked back to the lovely Motel 6 & crashed. It was a long day of hiking & driving. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CuuSHsOqb3w/XOrabwLCdrI/AAAAAAAAFsY/3Q5uCDJ4WA4-K1ghlP7wGDSgCYEo4VbPACLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CuuSHsOqb3w/XOrabwLCdrI/AAAAAAAAFsY/3Q5uCDJ4WA4-K1ghlP7wGDSgCYEo4VbPACLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B295.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rogue Brewing Headquarters</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DABpDlIgycs/XOrabXR_qiI/AAAAAAAAFsQ/GwBgX91FJxcHNu0OS03dRV9pHlBZHb9zACLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DABpDlIgycs/XOrabXR_qiI/AAAAAAAAFsQ/GwBgX91FJxcHNu0OS03dRV9pHlBZHb9zACLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B296.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rogue Brewing Headquarters</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IJ6qYaOg7w4/XOrabiVW5zI/AAAAAAAAFsU/qL2pTn6oR9gYkn5adJdz8XLCQqEGk_6VgCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IJ6qYaOg7w4/XOrabiVW5zI/AAAAAAAAFsU/qL2pTn6oR9gYkn5adJdz8XLCQqEGk_6VgCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B300.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rogue Brewing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uZcZO40usQ8/XOracQKvotI/AAAAAAAAFsg/uLxsfbz-4m0pMuN4JUv1dTkkMG3yWAY6wCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uZcZO40usQ8/XOracQKvotI/AAAAAAAAFsg/uLxsfbz-4m0pMuN4JUv1dTkkMG3yWAY6wCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B301.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rogue Brewing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tla_HVvVvWY/XOracRdACDI/AAAAAAAAFsc/ocpeRthIHBs5JoEmRy2wVvGyckoGrHRHgCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tla_HVvVvWY/XOracRdACDI/AAAAAAAAFsc/ocpeRthIHBs5JoEmRy2wVvGyckoGrHRHgCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B303.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No camping tonight!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We got an early start on Sunday. Stopped at <a href="http://www.oregon.com/attractions/nye-beach-newport">Nye Beach</a> in Newport for a coffee & a walk along the beach. Have I mentioned how much people in Oregon love their dogs? They are pretty much allowed everywhere. After about a mile stroll down the beach we headed north on <a href="http://www.outdoorblueprint.com/plan/pacific-coast-highway-road-trip-guide/oregon/">Highway 101</a> to make our way up the coast.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wDnwsQvFz2s/XOr57YPxCwI/AAAAAAAAFs4/iAjbBRRW5VAHKSZ95Bg2b-nRKUi_WYYKQCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wDnwsQvFz2s/XOr57YPxCwI/AAAAAAAAFs4/iAjbBRRW5VAHKSZ95Bg2b-nRKUi_WYYKQCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B306.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QHfzhk-4X9g/XOr57ar8aiI/AAAAAAAAFs8/DFxnQLa05wAAHOs48Jiwd_CGhiuAofw0ACLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QHfzhk-4X9g/XOr57ar8aiI/AAAAAAAAFs8/DFxnQLa05wAAHOs48Jiwd_CGhiuAofw0ACLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B305.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nye Beach - The reflections were amazing along the coast</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our next stop was <a href="https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Cape_Kiwanda_Hike">Cape Kiwanda</a>. Another beautiful beach with a large sand dune to hike up with amazing views at the top. After our hike up & down the dune we stopped at <a href="https://pelicanbrewing.com/">Pelican Brewing</a> for lunch & a flight. Pelican Brewing was a close second to Rogue for my favorite brewery. Every single beer was awesome.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i6Jhoksosd4/XOr57haMrlI/AAAAAAAAFtA/PPC5iMbeUEUPo00muWKJcZIsta1JzVA3QCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i6Jhoksosd4/XOr57haMrlI/AAAAAAAAFtA/PPC5iMbeUEUPo00muWKJcZIsta1JzVA3QCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B308.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SEQk4r4KA3c/XOr58QlukfI/AAAAAAAAFtE/hBUDV7ndR5oRCO8wOdJzKbyf8PJXGQxSwCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SEQk4r4KA3c/XOr58QlukfI/AAAAAAAAFtE/hBUDV7ndR5oRCO8wOdJzKbyf8PJXGQxSwCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B310.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cape Kiwanda</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--90jmAe4BIU/XOr59kz-IQI/AAAAAAAAFtI/zH8QrZsNdTo4iIz8TVdm2PiDnHqP7rpzwCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--90jmAe4BIU/XOr59kz-IQI/AAAAAAAAFtI/zH8QrZsNdTo4iIz8TVdm2PiDnHqP7rpzwCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B316.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cape Kiwanda - Super steep dune</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n4gVUKuRqXo/XOr591BuucI/AAAAAAAAFtQ/egH4SlNuI_kNR1lXwIvfunJFTDvhXksuQCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n4gVUKuRqXo/XOr591BuucI/AAAAAAAAFtQ/egH4SlNuI_kNR1lXwIvfunJFTDvhXksuQCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B317.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cape Kiwanda - Top of the dune</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--vnV6_56uMM/XOr5-ONPoRI/AAAAAAAAFtM/CH3oncX3laIkEY4zxIY9BPeZrLOiHN-xQCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--vnV6_56uMM/XOr5-ONPoRI/AAAAAAAAFtM/CH3oncX3laIkEY4zxIY9BPeZrLOiHN-xQCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B320.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cape Kiwanda - There were a couple of whales out there</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iUT5tPVNJkE/XOr9iNFLlvI/AAAAAAAAFuY/reUmF3wh_pcJvfrdFBfAvDWOpnRpr3YIACLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B326.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iUT5tPVNJkE/XOr9iNFLlvI/AAAAAAAAFuY/reUmF3wh_pcJvfrdFBfAvDWOpnRpr3YIACLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B326.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3sLOLojh8cA/XOr9iPg42qI/AAAAAAAAFuc/r85AgiSX24cP64PPbDSjjJrtiyNEZLSNwCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3sLOLojh8cA/XOr9iPg42qI/AAAAAAAAFuc/r85AgiSX24cP64PPbDSjjJrtiyNEZLSNwCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B328.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://pelicanbrewing.com/">Pelican Brewing</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After lunch we continued north for a foodie stop, <a href="https://www.tillamook.com/creamery.html#general">Tillamook</a>! We took the self guided tour, ate some cheese samples & then waited about 20 minutes for a double scoop of ice cream nirvana. It was that good. They have a really good <a href="https://www.tillamook.com/our-story.html">story</a> & mission too.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-16jnKePEpGo/XOr9h34-opI/AAAAAAAAFuU/sm6KEz-ZhYonZNZtmSLKQtxWwOqY9aIVACLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-16jnKePEpGo/XOr9h34-opI/AAAAAAAAFuU/sm6KEz-ZhYonZNZtmSLKQtxWwOqY9aIVACLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B331.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HUTUybTJ8K4/XOr_dz5epDI/AAAAAAAAFu4/Oy0bODrShik3ggovIvVAPhtSv41lCcFZQCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B332.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HUTUybTJ8K4/XOr_dz5epDI/AAAAAAAAFu4/Oy0bODrShik3ggovIvVAPhtSv41lCcFZQCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B332.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tillamook</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jl9clJf2f5A/XOr9ilG9c5I/AAAAAAAAFug/qNXcX6MBY7YyopHm-GEQRxOQqMT4B2JwwCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B333.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jl9clJf2f5A/XOr9ilG9c5I/AAAAAAAAFug/qNXcX6MBY7YyopHm-GEQRxOQqMT4B2JwwCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B333.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P9Cer3wUfWE/XOr9jCZD2LI/AAAAAAAAFuk/gLuE-as8KqIVan94aGnJvENCcTTjJ0yLwCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P9Cer3wUfWE/XOr9jCZD2LI/AAAAAAAAFuk/gLuE-as8KqIVan94aGnJvENCcTTjJ0yLwCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B334.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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After our ice cream we waddled our way to the car & headed out to find a place to stay for the night. We ended up at the <a href="http://sunsetsurfocean.com/">Sunset Surf </a>motel in <a href="http://exploremanzanita.com/">Manzanita</a>. After checking in we did another beach walk & then headed into the tiny town to check out our dining options. We opting for take-away pizza & beer that we ate on the patio facing the pool & ocean. Afterwards, we took a sunset walk that afforded some amazing photos.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3n0yZ-wGi-Q/XOsA3oLmx2I/AAAAAAAAFvM/gA1dBdhEAe4YaOv_oNB473fkoobQPAuZwCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3n0yZ-wGi-Q/XOsA3oLmx2I/AAAAAAAAFvM/gA1dBdhEAe4YaOv_oNB473fkoobQPAuZwCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B340.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset Surf Motel</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PtKMoiA7Msg/XOsA3uBUyEI/AAAAAAAAFvI/EF-LAOyQlOMqalAEi-CDhfMWMQPt1FFXQCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PtKMoiA7Msg/XOsA3uBUyEI/AAAAAAAAFvI/EF-LAOyQlOMqalAEi-CDhfMWMQPt1FFXQCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B342.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manzanita Beach - Reflections for days</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KQajYKYAuA8/XOsA3YG7lHI/AAAAAAAAFvE/yrvsi9J6pJgKed3-B89yBwWzarG667MrACLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KQajYKYAuA8/XOsA3YG7lHI/AAAAAAAAFvE/yrvsi9J6pJgKed3-B89yBwWzarG667MrACLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B344.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manzanita Beach - Reflections for days</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p7Arw5Me2nU/XOsA4R9LKXI/AAAAAAAAFvQ/pecC0r6ZHxAzbzboH4EoxPAxl2qlRKIWwCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B345.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p7Arw5Me2nU/XOsA4R9LKXI/AAAAAAAAFvQ/pecC0r6ZHxAzbzboH4EoxPAxl2qlRKIWwCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B345.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manzanita Beach - Reflections for days</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HoBkUzAlJeg/XOsA4TBstkI/AAAAAAAAFvU/fdpXuQFoiUsNnEh_9VACdw7dL6KuvIgPQCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HoBkUzAlJeg/XOsA4TBstkI/AAAAAAAAFvU/fdpXuQFoiUsNnEh_9VACdw7dL6KuvIgPQCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B348.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Manzanita Beach</td></tr>
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Monday was our last day along the coast before heading into Portland. We made a few more stops along Highway 101. There were so many overlooks & beaches to enjoy on our way to Cannon Beach.<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S_dDB-6EC-I/XOr72723geI/AAAAAAAAFtw/KpJpGnVXMFcdq2dBs4W81SF9nTEd26VoQCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S_dDB-6EC-I/XOr72723geI/AAAAAAAAFtw/KpJpGnVXMFcdq2dBs4W81SF9nTEd26VoQCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Looking back towards Manzanita</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Highway 101 just north of Manzanita</td></tr>
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<a href="https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=parkPage.dsp_parkPage&parkId=137">Hug Point</a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=parkPage.dsp_parkPage&parkId=137" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Hug Point</a></div>
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We made it to <a href="https://www.cannonbeach.org/">Cannon Beach</a> around 11 AM. When we got there it was drizzling & windy but the skies quickly cleared up. The wind never let up while we were there though.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cannonbeach.org/things-to-do/beaches-and-parks/haystack-rock/">Haystack Rock</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cannonbeach.org/things-to-do/beaches-and-parks/haystack-rock/" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Haystack Rock</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.cannonbeach.org/things-to-do/beaches-and-parks/haystack-rock/" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Haystack Rock</a></td></tr>
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The pictures don't pick them up be we saw lots of puffins, murres & a bald eagle flying around Haystack Rock. It was amazing to watch the murres chase the bald eagle away. <br />
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We walked the town & grabbed lunch before heading into Portland. Cannon Beach has lots of places to stay, shops & restaurants. It would be a great place to stay for a long weekend.<br />
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We arrived in Portland about 3PM. The plan was to unload the car & then drop it off at the airport since we no longer needed it. I booked a <a href="https://www.slabtownvillage.com/">Tiny Home</a> in Portland for kicks and tiny it was! We stayed in the <a href="https://www.slabtownvillage.com/houses/rooms/d302b213-8dcf-4a46-8331-24fb5d1963d6">Henry</a>. The living area was plenty of room but the sleeping area was a bit tight & awkward to get into bed. It was in a great location close to the <a href="https://portlandstreetcar.org/">NS street car</a> line and walking distance to a lot of restaurants.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Henry</td></tr>
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We dropped the car off at the airport & took the <a href="https://trimet.org/">Max redline light rail</a> back to downtown. As we walked back from Union Station we stopped into REI & then <a href="https://www.rogue.com/locations/rogue-distillery-and-public-house">Rogue Brewery</a> in the Pearl District for dinner & another flight. After dinner we checked out <a href="https://www.powells.com/">Powell's City of Books</a>. What an awesome bookstore! After that we called it a night.<br />
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We had 2 full days in Portland & after spending the previous 5 days in wide open spaces the transition back to city life was a little hard. What to do, what to do. Our first stop on Tuesday was the <a href="http://commissarycafe.com/">Commissary Cafe</a> for breakfast. This place was so good we had breakfast here again on our last morning before heading to the airport. Get the Lights - egg, cheese & bacon on a giant biscuit. So good.<br />
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We then hopped on the NS line to downtown & rented some <a href="https://www.biketownpdx.com/">Biketown</a> bikes for a 5 mile loop across the <a href="https://trimet.org/tilikum/">Tilikum</a> bridge (aka, the Bridge of the People) & along the rivers. The weather was overcast but dry. Portland is such a pedestrian & bike friendly town. So many bike commuters & the bike lanes are awesome. They even have bike routes outlined specific for bikes that have low car traffic. After our ride we had lunch in Nob Hill at <a href="http://www.kornblattsdelipdx.com/">Kornblatts</a>. The best thing about this restaurant is they give you a full jar of dill pickles. Loved this!<br />
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After lunch we did a little shopping & then checked out <a href="http://explorewashingtonpark.org/">Washington Park</a>. This is a huge park in Portland. It houses the Portland Rose Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Arboretum & the Oregon zoo among other things. We did a quick walk through the rose garden & decided to come back the next day since we got there pretty late in the day.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NS Streetcar</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-To7AJ78GVcA/XOsJ7d-d2JI/AAAAAAAAFyQ/ShTci69t6rgn7doQDkk0fuVQnG_c2iFwQCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-To7AJ78GVcA/XOsJ7d-d2JI/AAAAAAAAFyQ/ShTci69t6rgn7doQDkk0fuVQnG_c2iFwQCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B128.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wilamette River</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KjWb9ex0eXE/XOsJ7YJ1SpI/AAAAAAAAFyU/bQV4sJGi1Ig4HKnSy12fZ0sm2tI3AW4qgCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KjWb9ex0eXE/XOsJ7YJ1SpI/AAAAAAAAFyU/bQV4sJGi1Ig4HKnSy12fZ0sm2tI3AW4qgCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B129.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve being Steve</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z3ivgSvC7tQ/XOsJ8K1jr5I/AAAAAAAAFyY/sep4yIzSWHYQEA-VSNH6ToMCZGxAmT7LwCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z3ivgSvC7tQ/XOsJ8K1jr5I/AAAAAAAAFyY/sep4yIzSWHYQEA-VSNH6ToMCZGxAmT7LwCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B134.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Biketown</td></tr>
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Dinner was yet another brewery! This time <a href="http://vonebertbrewing.com/">Von Ebert brewery</a> in the Pearl District. Another great brewery and they had really good chicken wings.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bnmg3h9tnIk/XOsJRUsrUPI/AAAAAAAAFx8/esLuiHOMocQ_jnVqL5YnYbyelwFIiydjQCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B168.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bnmg3h9tnIk/XOsJRUsrUPI/AAAAAAAAFx8/esLuiHOMocQ_jnVqL5YnYbyelwFIiydjQCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B168.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Von Ebert Brewing</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Von Ebert Brewing</td></tr>
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Our last full day in Portland started at <a href="https://www.bluestardonuts.com/">Blue Star</a> donuts. These were the best donuts I have ever eaten. Normally, donuts are meh & I usually feel they aren't worth the calories but these, these donuts were so worth it! We even got a few more to go they were that good.<br />
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We did some more shopping before heading back to <a href="http://explorewashingtonpark.org/">Washington Park</a>. This time we went into the <a href="https://japanesegarden.org/">Japanese Garden</a>. It was so beautiful & peaceful. We finished up the day with a couple more brewery stops & a last stop at Powell's Books.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oP0CEth5NfY/XOsMBAksmNI/AAAAAAAAFzc/ArwpNFptqQIU651r9qEQ3uZQoboJhepUgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1057" data-original-width="1600" height="211" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oP0CEth5NfY/XOsMBAksmNI/AAAAAAAAFzc/ArwpNFptqQIU651r9qEQ3uZQoboJhepUgCEwYBhgL/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B239.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Japanese Garden</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qYPedgzyaIY/XOsL_Ng-EkI/AAAAAAAAFzQ/s544JVyvSFQrrQ63OsaKmUkB-ts3ecFPgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qYPedgzyaIY/XOsL_Ng-EkI/AAAAAAAAFzQ/s544JVyvSFQrrQ63OsaKmUkB-ts3ecFPgCEwYBhgL/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B243.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Japanese Garden</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vfwNyl1_UrU/XOsMBcQm7FI/AAAAAAAAFzk/1QQkONupNWEvHGnSpUNuWxEQpoik98nswCEwYBhgL/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vfwNyl1_UrU/XOsMBcQm7FI/AAAAAAAAFzk/1QQkONupNWEvHGnSpUNuWxEQpoik98nswCEwYBhgL/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B246.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Japanese Garden</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wae9VkpNgFM/XOsMAgs-pdI/AAAAAAAAFzY/PkMFv9-BR3wsoMOYqcYXPf5LRJOUalx4QCEwYBhgL/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wae9VkpNgFM/XOsMAgs-pdI/AAAAAAAAFzY/PkMFv9-BR3wsoMOYqcYXPf5LRJOUalx4QCEwYBhgL/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B250.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The only full pint I ordered this trip</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-khQV6vWwHQk/XOsMCUMq6xI/AAAAAAAAFzk/AxoW-zKN7v4_gspLH8dzVeiVqy9Mb0drQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B256.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-khQV6vWwHQk/XOsMCUMq6xI/AAAAAAAAFzk/AxoW-zKN7v4_gspLH8dzVeiVqy9Mb0drQCEwYBhgL/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B256.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.labrewatory.com/">LABrewatory</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KjpXx_LYeJM/XOsMBs06TRI/AAAAAAAAFzg/DyEDPRmStGUOESr-Hn89aevZMeMKGjptACEwYBhgL/s1600/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KjpXx_LYeJM/XOsMBs06TRI/AAAAAAAAFzg/DyEDPRmStGUOESr-Hn89aevZMeMKGjptACEwYBhgL/s320/Oregon%2B2019%2B-%2B252.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.labrewatory.com/">LABrewatory</a></td></tr>
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We only traveled the NW part of Oregon but what we saw was awesome. We definitely want to go back.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0WJPEu4Wg1U/XOs_qG8HIVI/AAAAAAAAFz0/hNgTPH2M8JoSkJb0vzeElKG7of9cCDzngCLcBGAs/s1600/Oregon%2BMap.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="723" height="243" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0WJPEu4Wg1U/XOs_qG8HIVI/AAAAAAAAFz0/hNgTPH2M8JoSkJb0vzeElKG7of9cCDzngCLcBGAs/s320/Oregon%2BMap.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tiny part of Oregon we visited</td></tr>
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We also saw some beautiful flowers on our travels too. Here are just a few pictures of them.<br />
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Next visit: Stay in Sisters longer, explore Bend, go further south to Crater Lake, check out the southern half of the coast, check out Astoria, spend more time in the Columbia Gorge & around Mt Hood.Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-89487469866535729232019-04-08T20:32:00.002-04:002019-04-08T20:32:40.506-04:00Number 12 - Asheville, NC<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1kv5jcgSjwA/XKYW-AaOX6I/AAAAAAAAFlM/GLsV26BGbpYy2_VOrn57qIHJHm33GaZFQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG-0499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1kv5jcgSjwA/XKYW-AaOX6I/AAAAAAAAFlM/GLsV26BGbpYy2_VOrn57qIHJHm33GaZFQCEwYBhgL/s320/IMG-0499.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Theme of #12 - Catawba Brewing</td></tr>
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OK, so this is almost a repeat of <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2018/03/number-11-asheville-nc.html">#11</a> which is also my last official blog post. I wanted to check out a <a href="https://parks.ky.gov/">Kentucky State Park </a>this year but the only one Steve was interested in was <a href="https://parks.ky.gov/parks/resortparks/carter-caves/">Carter Caves</a> which was booked. So Asheville it is! Plus the weather forecast was looking good for some outside activities.<br />
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We left Lexington about 10AM. We got stuck on I75 for about an hour near Mt Vernon due to blasting to expand the interstate. We had another delay on I40 due to one lane being closed in both directions due to another rock slide just inside North Carolina. We ended up getting to the hotel a little after 3PM.<br />
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This year we stayed at the <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/avlfp-four-points-asheville-downtown/">Sheraton Four Points Downtown</a>. In all of our trips we had never stayed downtown & I wanted to be able to walk to the breweries in downtown. That way I could enjoy more flights!<br />
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Our first stop was <a href="http://www.twinleafbrewery.com/">Twin Leaf Brewery</a> in the South Slope. The South Slope area is where several breweries are now. They were celebrating their 5th anniversary. Unfortunately, it was our least favorite brewery. They have 5 beer flights. 2 of the 5 beers I picked I don't typically like but didn't realize what they were. The IPA & Lager were OK but the Gose & the Triple I wasn't a fan of. The imperial Mexican stout had a bit too much cayenne for my taste.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twin Leaf Brewing</td></tr>
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Our next stop was <a href="https://catawbabrewing.com/">Catawba</a> also in South Slope. They offered 4 or 8 beer flights. We chose the 8 flight since they had so many beers on tap to choose from. Catawba is one of the older breweries in WNC and it showed. Their beer was really good. 7 of the 8 were really good & surprisingly my favorite was the Peanut Butter & Strawberry Jelly. It tasted just like a PB&J and was good! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Catawba Brewing - So many choices</td></tr>
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After finishing our flight we made our traditional stop at Mast General store before going to dinner at <a href="https://www.ashevillebrewing.com/">Asheville Brewing</a>. This is one of our usual stops we make on every trip to Asheville. They have 4 beer flights & my favorites were Shiva IPA & 828 Pale Ale. Steve got a pizza & I got the Buffalo Bill salad. Both did not disappoint.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Asheville Brewing</td></tr>
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Saturday we did our usual Saturday morning run followed by breakfast. Steve runs every Saturday which I have lost track on how many years his Saturday morning run streak is going on, maybe 6? Asheville is hilly which makes for a really challenging run. I always think of how strong I would be if I lived in Asheville walking / running all the hills. Our run was a short one, 2.5 miles or so but it put us at <a href="https://tupelohoneycafe.com/location/downtown-asheville/">Tupelo Honey</a> right at 8:58 which was 2 minutes before it opened. Although there was a line waiting to get in we were seated right away. We had omelettes which were good but the biscuits & coffee were amazing. Be advised, breakfast is not cheap here but it is good!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downtown Location</td></tr>
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After breakfast we walked back to the hotel to get ready to hit one of the trails. We decided on the <a href="https://www.hikewnc.info/besthikes/craggy-gardens/snowball">Snowball Trail.</a> About a 3 miles round trip to Hawksbill Rock with good elevation change about 30 minute drive from hotel.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SNOW!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On top of Hawksbill Rock</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hawksbill Rock</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hawksbill Rock</td></tr>
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The weather was perfect all weekend. Mid to upper 60's & sunny. There was still snow on a good part of the trail but it was melting fast. There weren't too many people on this trail & the hike was great. It took us about 2 hours including time at the top hanging out. It felt good to be hiking again - it's been awhile.<br />
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When we got back to the trailhead there were so many cars - I have no idea which trail all of these people were doing but we certainly didn't see them on our hike. That's another nice thing about Asheville, there are so many good hikes around the area that you can always try out a new trail.<br />
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After our hike we got cleaned up & headed out for more, you guessed it, beer! First stop was <a href="https://burialbeer.com/">Burial Brewing</a>. This is our new favorite brewery. It is in the South Slope close to several other breweries. We got a flight of IPAs and they were really good.<br />
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It was such a nice day to hang out in their beer garden & people watch. It was prime Bachelor/Bachelorette party time. We saw so many groups that were clearly out celebrating. Asheville really is a good town for this. So many fun things to do within walking distance.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burial Brewing </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burial Brewing</td></tr>
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Our last stop for the day was <a href="https://www.wickedweedbrewing.com/">Wicked Weed</a>. It's also one of our usual stops. Unfortunately, they don't offer flights on weekends so had to settle for a pint of <a href="https://www.wickedweedbrewing.com/beer/freak-of-nature/">Freak of Nature</a>. We both had burgers which were yummy. After dinner we walked back to the hotel & called it a night.<br />
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Sunday was our actual anniversary. In the morning we walked back to South Slope to try out <a href="https://vortexdoughnuts.com/">Vortex</a> donuts. They were good but nothing spectacular. Donuts to me always sound better than what they are. I am almost always disappointed after eating one. They are never as good as what I imagine them to be.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vortex Donuts</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy Anniversary to Us!</td></tr>
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One of our last stops before heading home was surprise, REI! We had our 20% member discount card & I was looking for a new lightweight pack that I can use when I bike commute. I ended up with the <a href="https://www.rei.com/product/148594/rei-co-op-flash-22-pack">REI Flash 22</a> which seems like a good one but time will tell once I start bike commuting again in May.<br />
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And with one last meal another anniversary & great trip is in the books! <br />
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<br />Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-10375602693987359232018-03-29T17:15:00.000-04:002018-03-29T17:16:13.601-04:00Number 11 - Asheville, NCWe celebrated our 11th anniversary last weekend in Asheville, NC. How we love this little mountain town. The weeks leading up to the weekend I was uncertain where we would go. I wanted to check out somewhere new within driving distance. Unfortunately the weather forecast was either rain, sleet or snow any direction we went so as I drove home from work on Thursday I decided on Asheville since as the sign says, is always a good idea!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yep</td></tr>
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We left Friday morning & arrived about 2PM. Of course we drove straight to a brewery. We picked <a href="http://sweetencreekbrewing.com/">Sweeten Creek</a> based on the online reviews & it did not disappoint. I ordered a flight & Steve got an Irish Red. Every beer we tasted was really good. We also ordered sandwiches which were fantastic. I ordered The Bird (turkey, pimento cheese, bacon & Avocado) & Steve the Italian. The Bird was the better of the two in my opinion.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://sweetencreekbrewing.com/">Sweeten Creek Brewing</a></td></tr>
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After lunch we checked out <a href="http://www.ashevillecottonco.com/">Asheville Cotton</a> (yeah, I am into sewing now) followed by a trip to Cheap Joe's Art Stuff because Steve is a burgeoning painter now that he is retired. Afterwards we checked into our hotel. This trip we stayed at the <a href="http://ashevillecp.com/">Crown Plaza Resort</a>. We walked the grounds after we checked in. It's a pretty nice place and not far from downtown.<br />
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For dinner we went to <a href="https://www.ashevillebrewing.com/location/downtown/">Asheville Pizza & Brewing</a> downtown. We end up at one of their locations on most of our trips. Good beer, good food. This time I had the Ninja Porter & Steve had the Shiva IPA. They have decent pizza but I ordered their Buffalo Bill Salad. So freakin' good! </div>
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After dinner we walked around town. The weather was a bit chilly but dry. We picked up a sipping chocolate to share at <a href="https://www.chocolatefetish.com/">Chocolate Fetish</a>. We stopped into a couple of open galleries & made a quick trip through <a href="https://www.mastgeneralstore.com/cms/index.cfm/visit/visit-asheville/">Mast General Store</a> before heading back to the hotel.</div>
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Saturday, Steve got up early so he could get his run in. He opted for the treadmill not because it was drizzly out but more due to the hills around the resort. I always think how fit I would be if I lived in Asheville & walked those hills everyday. </div>
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Remember last summer when we started drinking <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/07/">Kombucha</a>? Well, we have been batch brewing our own since January & I was ready to move on to a continuous brewing system. One of the things I wanted to accomplish while in Asheville was to pick up a handmade Kombucha fermentation vessel. An acupuncturist I recently went to recommended a studio in Asheville that makes them. I had reached out to them & we agreed to meet up on Saturday. I made the purchase off their <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/251642677/made-to-order-two-gallon-kombucha?ref=shop_home_feat_3">Etsy shop</a> & then met them at <a href="http://www.westendbakery.com/">West End Bakery</a>. It worked out so well & I love the piece. It is now happily sitting in our kitchen brewing up our first batch of continuous brewed Kombucha.</div>
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We spent the afternoon in the <a href="http://www.riverartsdistrict.com/">River Arts District</a> walking through several galleries before stopping in at <a href="https://www.wedgebrewing.com/">Wedge Brewing</a> at <a href="http://www.riverartsdistrict.com/the-wedge/">Wedge Studios</a>. This time Steve & I both got a flight. We ordered mostly the same with the exception that I ordered the Russian Stout & he ordered the bourbon barrel stout. The rest were Payne's Pale Ale, Community Porter & one of their IPAs. My favorite was the Payne's Pale Ale - maybe because Payne is my maiden name or maybe it was just that good! When I ordered the Russian Stout I missed the small print that said it was brewed with Raspberries. I do not like raspberries & boy did I not like this beer. It tasted like cough medicine. I could not drink it. The other two I picked were OK. I tried the Bourbon Stout & was not a fan of that either although I don't typically like bourbon barrel beers.<br />
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We ordered lunch off the food truck that was there. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ElKimchi/">El Kimchi</a> - mexican korean street food. Steve ordered the mini tacos & I ordered the Bibimbap with bulgogi beef. Both were pretty damn good.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Vw7wf_gr7A/Wr02VkcpMeI/AAAAAAAAFVQ/79aBm6f6gYQWhuX2MGsEk40KFnkJjAWdACEwYBhgL/s1600/2018_Asheville%2B-%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7Vw7wf_gr7A/Wr02VkcpMeI/AAAAAAAAFVQ/79aBm6f6gYQWhuX2MGsEk40KFnkJjAWdACEwYBhgL/s320/2018_Asheville%2B-%2B4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wedge Brewing</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby doll heads creep me out especially ones mounted on a rubber duckie!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mexican - Korean Food Truck</td></tr>
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What is a trip to Asheville without a stop at REI? Plus we had our 20% membership coupon so we absolutely had to go. What I didn't expect was that we would use that coupon on a giant 6 person tent! Steve is so excited. Car camping here we come! It is pretty sweet. Our other tents are a tiny, tiny tent & hammocks that we take on our bike trips. It will be nice to have a nicer mattress/cot to sleep on & an area to hang out in if it rains, which in Kentucky is most days it seems.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve's New Tent</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-38KDE654gjE/Wr1HvXbhskI/AAAAAAAAFWA/mcvSYLkkyDsP6LwMak3dq0nNTvcPOBf7gCLcBGAs/s1600/2018_Asheville%2B-%2B2%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-38KDE654gjE/Wr1HvXbhskI/AAAAAAAAFWA/mcvSYLkkyDsP6LwMak3dq0nNTvcPOBf7gCLcBGAs/s320/2018_Asheville%2B-%2B2%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With a divider</td></tr>
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We spent some time chilling out at the hotel before deciding on dinner. Since neither one of us eat out a lot anymore our systems were pretty taxed. We finally decided on <a href="http://www.bhramaribrewing.com/">Bhramari Brewing</a> downtown. The place was packed and it was a grab a seat as you can type of communal dining. Imagine the Southwest flights that don't assign seats & when it's time to board it is a bit of a free for all. That kind of disorder causes me stress but like a Southwest flight this too worked out great.<br />
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We ordered beers at the bar & then walked around checking out the lay of the land. As we walked back into the main room towards the back of the restaurant a large group suddenly got up to leave & we had seats! We settled in to watch the second half of the Loyola Chicago vs Kansas State basketball game and ordered dinner. I ordered the wings & Steve had a burger which were pretty good. We were 50/50 on the beer. I had the Lorelei IPA & Steve had the Opulent Couch. The IPA was great but the other not so much. In general, the place was pretty cool & had a nice outdoor area.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PNrpYtso35o/Wr1LMxm6zuI/AAAAAAAAFWQ/cB6S2H54eFU2YfEZZNTiuaPLsIBRjt4lQCLcBGAs/s1600/2018_Asheville%2B-%2B7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PNrpYtso35o/Wr1LMxm6zuI/AAAAAAAAFWQ/cB6S2H54eFU2YfEZZNTiuaPLsIBRjt4lQCLcBGAs/s320/2018_Asheville%2B-%2B7.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loved this wall at Bhramari - cuts from a tree</td></tr>
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After dinner we walked out & it was pouring rain. Up until this point we were very fortunate with the weather. Both days was dry & in the low to upper 50's. Since the weather sucked & we couldn't eat or drink another thing we called it a night.<br />
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We were up & packed up pretty early on Sunday. We made one last restaurant stop at the #1 rated breakfast place in Asheville according to Trip Advisor - <a href="http://sunnypointcafe.com/">The Sunny Point Cafe</a>. We drove by on Saturday & there was a line out the door. We must have arrived just early (9AM) enough because we were seated immediately. We both ordered coffee & Huevos Rancheros. Not sure I would call it the best breakfast in Asheville but it was pretty damn good. Our server was awesome & sent us on our way with full to go cups of coffee for our drive home.<br />
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All in all it was a great weekend. We have been to Asheville so many times & we love it every time. The only thing missing from this trip was some good hiking!<br />
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Oh, since this is a fitness blog I thought I should mention I did a race a few weeks back, <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/KY/Versailles/TheLuckyLeprechaun">The Lucky Leprechaun 10 Miler</a>. Still not back to my pre-cancer training but maybe I never will be and I'm OK with that.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V27IliYN4ks/Wr1T96dP3GI/AAAAAAAAFWg/FGwRmXFgpl4uEIEq7W52Li07xiUw5iwKgCLcBGAs/s1600/28699097_10215796344840441_2029476526099328159_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1015" data-original-width="1440" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V27IliYN4ks/Wr1T96dP3GI/AAAAAAAAFWg/FGwRmXFgpl4uEIEq7W52Li07xiUw5iwKgCLcBGAs/s320/28699097_10215796344840441_2029476526099328159_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre-Race Photo</td></tr>
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Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-33884385253239710012018-01-28T21:43:00.002-05:002018-07-10T10:59:02.592-04:00Long Overdue Update<div style="text-align: center;">
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This post was originally a 6 month update & I wrote most of it but never finished it. With that said it's now been 9 months since I finished <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/04/20-days-of-radiation.html" style="color: #1155cc;">radiation</a> for breast cancer. In my <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/07/3-month-update.html" style="color: #1155cc;">3 month update</a> I was recovering from a bad case of pneumonia. The recovery took a full 12 weeks to feel mostly normal again in every day life but I am still building up my fitness levels.</div>
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I had another follow up CT scan & pulmonary visit in early October. For the most part my pneumonia is cleared, my radiation pneumonitis is improving but I continue to have pulmonary infiltrates. Each of the 3 CT scans have shown a spot but each month the spot is in a different location. In order to rule out any other funk they did a full blood work up. They took 7 vials of blood plus a urine sample to check for a litany of things including, TB, <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/histoplasmosis/basics/definition/con-20026585" style="color: #1155cc;">histoplasmosis</a>, <a href="https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/complete-blood-count#1" style="color: #1155cc;">CBC levels</a>, <a href="http://www.life-worldwide.org/fungal-diseases/antibody-testing" style="color: #1155cc;">fungal</a>, <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/c-reactive-protein/basics/why-its-done/prc-20014480" style="color: #1155cc;">C-Reactive Protein</a>, <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ana-test/home/ovc-20344718" style="color: #1155cc;">ANA</a>, <a href="https://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/test-catalog/Clinical+and+Interpretive/9441" style="color: #1155cc;">ANCA</a>, <a href="https://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/test-catalog/Clinical+and+Interpretive/63866" style="color: #1155cc;">stronglyloides</a> & <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/sed-rate/home/ovc-20207006" style="color: #1155cc;">sedimentation rates</a>. Thankfully all came back negative.</div>
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In November & December I had follow ups with the Radiation Oncologist, Pulmonary doc & my first mammogram since treatment ended. The Radiation Oncologist appointment was uneventful. One last checkup & then I was officially released. The Pulmonary doc had good news as well. My last CT scan after Thanksgiving finally came back clear. No more pneumonia, no more infiltrates but all clear! I then went for my first mammogram since treatment. As usual for me, it showed something they want to follow but the results fell in the 'probably benign, come back in 6 months.' So all in all, really good news. It took a year but I am finally fully recovered and now able to focus on getting my fitness back.</div>
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Prior to pneumonia I had signed up for the <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/KY/Lexington/TheGobblerHalfMarathon" style="color: #1155cc;">Gobbler Half Marathon</a> on November 18th. During the summer I had written off being able to run the half. I was thinking I would back down to the 10k. As I started to feel better I decided to hold off switching distances & just let the training tell me what distance to run.</div>
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<tr><td style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNY_8COqdts/WdqyrNN83uI/AAAAAAAAFPA/lupq2I4e7xsrGQysrsyg5uimWyxSiVmggCEwYBhgL/s1600/Fall2017%2B-%2B2.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNY_8COqdts/WdqyrNN83uI/AAAAAAAAFPA/lupq2I4e7xsrGQysrsyg5uimWyxSiVmggCEwYBhgL/s320/Fall2017%2B-%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="gmail-tr-caption" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 4px;">Seen During Arboretum Run</td></tr>
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As of early October my long run was up to 7 miles. I was doing run / walk intervals of 1 minute run / 4 minutes walk. I can't remember at what point I decided to drop down to the 10K but I eventually made that call and was glad I did. It took the pressure off & allowed me to enjoy some of my other favorite activities.</div>
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In addition to running, I have got back on my bike a few times.</div>
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<tr><td style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FbwqlMuWpsM/WdqzEZ6Sf3I/AAAAAAAAFPI/154GZu8QdRAp5fmTqqhlE4awrMDlxUfnwCLcBGAs/s1600/Fall2017%2B-%2B5.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FbwqlMuWpsM/WdqzEZ6Sf3I/AAAAAAAAFPI/154GZu8QdRAp5fmTqqhlE4awrMDlxUfnwCLcBGAs/s320/Fall2017%2B-%2B5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="gmail-tr-caption" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 4px;">First Post Pneumonia Ride</td></tr>
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We also got in a couple of paddles and good hikes in the gorge.</div>
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<tr><td style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8RW0AY4P6Ss/Wdq2Nja9o1I/AAAAAAAAFPY/y7m_Q5assiwRnhf57lDy2lQAU5HrrfXcACLcBGAs/s1600/Captain%2BSammie.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8RW0AY4P6Ss/Wdq2Nja9o1I/AAAAAAAAFPY/y7m_Q5assiwRnhf57lDy2lQAU5HrrfXcACLcBGAs/s320/Captain%2BSammie.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="gmail-tr-caption" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 4px;">Captain Sammie - Kentucky & Dix Rivers</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="gmail-tr-caption" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 4px;">Mallard Point SUP</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D0SQc-kHCTI/Wdqyvi6At8I/AAAAAAAAFPM/wk9ufgNhg9U5kzwvQKzmdpCzoFDRa9gUgCEwYBhgL/s320/Fall2017%2B-%2B7.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="gmail-tr-caption" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 4px;">Steve's Birthday Hike to Courthouse Rock</td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D0SQc-kHCTI/Wdqyvi6At8I/AAAAAAAAFPM/wk9ufgNhg9U5kzwvQKzmdpCzoFDRa9gUgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Fall2017%2B-%2B7.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
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<tr><td style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WykY4a1nyuM/WdqyouvwKOI/AAAAAAAAFPM/KI8Kpqj_irQrkhWHASAEPJIYJqgtAxTvACEwYBhgL/s1600/Fall2017%2B-%2B4.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WykY4a1nyuM/WdqyouvwKOI/AAAAAAAAFPM/KI8Kpqj_irQrkhWHASAEPJIYJqgtAxTvACEwYBhgL/s320/Fall2017%2B-%2B4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="gmail-tr-caption" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 4px;">Another Red River Gorge Hike</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="gmail-tr-caption" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 4px;">Hike at Big Bone Lick State Park<br />
(Photo credit Mary Henson)</td></tr>
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After a fun filled fall the Gobbler kicked off the holiday running season. This year didn't disappoint!</div>
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<tr><td class="gmail-tr-caption" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 4px;">Gobbler 10K</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ra9HoIqBAEw/WmqKXfzbHxI/AAAAAAAAFRw/9K5B6ASgXHw-8lQ1TZqtWrC2FI9q-AOIQCLcBGAs/s1600/Fall2017%2B-%2B15.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ra9HoIqBAEw/WmqKXfzbHxI/AAAAAAAAFRw/9K5B6ASgXHw-8lQ1TZqtWrC2FI9q-AOIQCLcBGAs/s320/Fall2017%2B-%2B15.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="gmail-tr-caption" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 4px;">Turkey Trot 5K in Kansas City - Day 1 Run Streak</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpNkzDHf-00/WmqKYdVbPJI/AAAAAAAAFSA/hf3GyDlkOv0JLDeJPruGZuCXNEIgjJTbgCLcBGAs/s1600/Fall2017%2B-%2B9%2B%25281%2529.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpNkzDHf-00/WmqKYdVbPJI/AAAAAAAAFSA/hf3GyDlkOv0JLDeJPruGZuCXNEIgjJTbgCLcBGAs/s320/Fall2017%2B-%2B9%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="gmail-tr-caption" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 4px;">Frankfort Frosty 5K</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b5w51PERc2Q/WmqKXx195FI/AAAAAAAAFR8/fmHwIXg56WIzk3mIFzBHNG2kVciCd2JwwCLcBGAs/s1600/Fall2017%2B-%2B7%2B%25281%2529.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b5w51PERc2Q/WmqKXx195FI/AAAAAAAAFR8/fmHwIXg56WIzk3mIFzBHNG2kVciCd2JwwCLcBGAs/s320/Fall2017%2B-%2B7%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="gmail-tr-caption" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 4px;">Reindeer Ramble 10K</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7J8hwa4y55A/WmqKXnr2TtI/AAAAAAAAFR0/FydKWM9dnIQvvNuTvS6RvF72oql8g6fKQCLcBGAs/s1600/Fall2017%2B-%2B1%2B%25282%2529.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7J8hwa4y55A/WmqKXnr2TtI/AAAAAAAAFR0/FydKWM9dnIQvvNuTvS6RvF72oql8g6fKQCLcBGAs/s320/Fall2017%2B-%2B1%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="gmail-tr-caption" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 4px;">West 6th Holiday Run</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SOOhpw-oVMk/Wm5-iVEEKeI/AAAAAAAAFSw/qeyRckWp16YQn135vYg0zbV0L4xkJRG9gCLcBGAs/s1600/Fall2017%2B-%2B18.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SOOhpw-oVMk/Wm5-iVEEKeI/AAAAAAAAFSw/qeyRckWp16YQn135vYg0zbV0L4xkJRG9gCLcBGAs/s320/Fall2017%2B-%2B18.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="gmail-tr-caption" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 4px;">New Years Day 2018 - Day 40 Run Streak</td></tr>
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2017 was a rough year health wise and I am grateful to have all of that behind me. As we are wrapping up January, I am now half way through my training plan for the <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/KY/Versailles/TheLuckyLeprechaun" style="color: #1155cc;">Lucky Leprechaun 10 Miler</a> on March 10th. </div>
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I must say it feels really good to get back to normal!<br />
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<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/5093555/?claim=jhfdru78y4k">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a></div>
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Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-7837904216931075042017-07-30T20:12:00.003-04:002017-07-30T20:13:32.048-04:00NutritionBack in March I started the <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/04/two-week-food-intolerance-test.html">2 week test</a> to eliminate sugar & processed foods. My main goal was to eliminate the garbage prior to starting <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/04/20-days-of-radiation.html">radiation</a> for breast cancer. After the test I started to add some foods back into my daily diet. Mostly fruits & a few whole grains. I still stayed away from added sugars & processed foods.<br />
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Several weeks after finishing the test I decided to start tracking my daily food intake on <a href="https://www.myfitnesspal.com/">My Fitness Pal</a>. I was curious to know how many calories I was eating plus I wanted to know my macro breakdown. I was still eating high fat foods which mentally was hard since I was raised in the 80's during the low fat era. After a few weeks of tracking I was on average eating about 1500-1800 calories per day & my macro breakdown was as follows: Carbs 30-35%, Fat 45-55% & Protein 15-20%. This was in the mid-May time frame. Overall, I was feeling really good health wise & feeling satisfied with my meals. I was starting to wonder how this way of eating would hold up long term & if it was sustainable as I started to add in longer workouts.<br />
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About this time <a href="http://www.swimbikemom.com/">Swim Bike Mom</a> started advertising a new nutrition program she was rolling out with <a href="https://www.enrgperformance.com/dina-griffin">Dina Griffin</a>, a Registered Dietitian & certified MET Specialist, called <a href="http://www.swimbikemom.com/nutrition2">Optimal Thrive</a>. Dina works with <a href="https://www.enrgperformance.com/bob-seebohar">Bob Seebohar</a> in <a href="https://www.enrgperformance.com/">Colorado</a>. When I first started triathlon in 2009, <a href="https://www.enrgperformance.com/bob-seebohar">Bob</a> came to Lexington to discuss his <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Metabolic-Efficiency-Training-Teaching-Paperback/dp/B00ZT0WLNU/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8">book</a> about eating metabolically efficient to train your body to be a fat burner instead of a sugar burner. I knew of several folks that bought the book & implemented this way of eating. At the time I was just trying to figure out the sport & didn't bother too much with my nutrition. Fast forward 8 years, hearing <a href="http://www.swimbikemom.com/">SBM</a> was offering this on-line program I was very interested. The timing was spot on since I had just finished the 2 week test & was looking for direction on how to move forward. The first <a href="http://www.swimbikemom.com/2017/05/optimal-thrive-launch.html">Optimal Thrive</a> session began on June 1st. <br />
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<a href="http://www.swimbikemom.com/nutrition">Optimal Thrive</a> started out as a 5 week session but they extended a couple weeks during the program so folks could have more time grasping the material. The format was good. It was exclusively on a Facebook private group. No emails. They would send out via Facebook a few worksheets a week. They would have a Q&A thread every Friday. They also had a meal thread where everyone in the program could add photos / recipes of their meal wins. There were weekly Live videos with Dina & 2 or 3 Webinars with both Meredith & Dina throughout the program. <br />
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About the worksheets - there were a total of 21 worksheets over the program. So not daily but several times per week. The essence of the worksheets were to teach you the principles of eating Metabolically Efficient & to give you the tools on how to implement into your life. The worksheets were not a weekly meal plan telling you what & when to eat. A few recipes were given but not a book of recipes. A few examples were given on how different athletes should eat for their day but not a slew of meal plans. <br />
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In a nutshell, how this program was run can be summarized with this famous quote: <i>"Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."</i> Personally, I loved it. I rather have the tools to understand the why I am doing what I am doing then just being told what to do. You need to understand this is how the program is run because some folks don't want to or are not ready to think. They just want to be told what to do. Sometimes, you need to slow down & learn the basics.<br />
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Since starting the <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/04/two-week-food-intolerance-test.html">2 week test</a> I am down over 10 pounds and 17 inches in my thighs, hips & waist. My deep sleep has improved significantly, I will talk more about that later in this post. I am still waiting to get healthy to see how my energy levels are & how this way of eating works with longer workouts. <br />
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Below is a typical day meals:<br />
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<b>Breakfast: </b>Green Smoothie - Almond milk, Tera's Whey protein powder, spinach, carrots, almond butter or plain greek yogurt, frozen banana & berries or Veggie & Meat Omelette. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y_Tcpt8eYPU/WX4zp9Y14II/AAAAAAAAFBc/hP9YuQIToeA1uR_hwi_2G7E34mbMrHycACEwYBhgL/s1600/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y_Tcpt8eYPU/WX4zp9Y14II/AAAAAAAAFBc/hP9YuQIToeA1uR_hwi_2G7E34mbMrHycACEwYBhgL/s320/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green Smoothie</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qR4hbjtj98k/WX4zrdFbeEI/AAAAAAAAFBo/9LqcklhRm-8aBOXcnjGFQUnSJj2vwOWTACEwYBhgL/s1600/FoodandFitness%2B-%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qR4hbjtj98k/WX4zrdFbeEI/AAAAAAAAFBo/9LqcklhRm-8aBOXcnjGFQUnSJj2vwOWTACEwYBhgL/s320/FoodandFitness%2B-%2B1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Omelette, Bacon & Sprouted Rye Toast</td></tr>
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<b>Lunch:</b> Spinach or Cabbage Salad with sweet peppers, carrots, almonds, pumpkin seeds, cheese & some kind of meat - grilled chicken, tuna, turkey. Either olive oil & balsamic vinegar or organic ranch dressing<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--3Q349kwbPo/WX4zqaN97dI/AAAAAAAAFBk/vqy-PO66mMczNlG5CpSYawT9nZfnywp5wCEwYBhgL/s1600/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--3Q349kwbPo/WX4zqaN97dI/AAAAAAAAFBk/vqy-PO66mMczNlG5CpSYawT9nZfnywp5wCEwYBhgL/s320/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B8.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cabbage Salad</td></tr>
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<b>Dinner: </b>Grilled Zucchini/Summer Squash & green beans, grilled chicken with peanut sauce<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FhlKD8Kz7iA/WX4nDK4O9BI/AAAAAAAAFBM/q_vsdq73tSspzxe7ws1vboinH3a7ccOSACEwYBhgL/s1600/FoodandFitness072917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FhlKD8Kz7iA/WX4nDK4O9BI/AAAAAAAAFBM/q_vsdq73tSspzxe7ws1vboinH3a7ccOSACEwYBhgL/s320/FoodandFitness072917.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled Corn & Summer Squash</td></tr>
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<b>Snacks:</b> Fruit & string cheese, almonds/cashews/pistachios, veggies & hummus<br />
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The other thing I have been doing since being <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/07/3-month-update.html">sick</a> is listening to podcasts on health & nutrition. A couple things I recently introduced into my diet is <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kombucha">Kombucha</a> & <a href="https://draxe.com/apple-cider-vinegar-uses/">Apple Cider Vinegar</a>. This is to combat the damage the 3 weeks of antibiotics did to my system. Both are said to help to rebalance the good stuff in your gut. Kombucha is definitely an acquired taste. I have been drinking 1/2 - 1 serving per day. The first thing I noticed is that it gave me an immediate burst of energy. The first time I drank it was after my first day back to work after pneumonia. I was drained from the day. After drinking 1 serving I immediately felt perked up. I had similar results the next day. I even got Steve drinking it & to my surprise he really likes it. I have been drinking it for a week now & my belly feels a lot better. Steve had similar comments. It's not cheap, about $1.50 - $2 per serving. There are a ton of flavors & brands so we have been trying different ones. Even Target has their own brand but be careful theirs has added sugar. So far our favorite is Traders Joe's Pink Lady Apple at $4 per bottle. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O_RM6HqfAY4/WX4w0ASkNdI/AAAAAAAAFBU/Q5ulMN46ewcOYXBesyTamjfaU4TbvedMgCLcBGAs/s1600/FoodandFitness%2B-%2B2%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O_RM6HqfAY4/WX4w0ASkNdI/AAAAAAAAFBU/Q5ulMN46ewcOYXBesyTamjfaU4TbvedMgCLcBGAs/s320/FoodandFitness%2B-%2B2%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is our favorite so far - Trader Joe's</td></tr>
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They even make some with Chia seeds. If you are not familiar with Chia & what they do in liquid, think bubble tea. If you like Chia seeds, this one is good as well. I have drank about 4 ounces a day & haven't noticed any energy boost like I did with the Trilogy & Pink Lady. It is also higher in calories because of the Chia seeds. Personally, I will skip the Chia ones in the future. Not that they taste bad but because of the calories & no noticeable benefits. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-blaVFs6-q8A/WX4wz0MumMI/AAAAAAAAFBQ/UWU6ifiIX7Q8-c6i0nqscaqjR6Yl7zvZwCEwYBhgL/s1600/FoodandFitness%2B-%2B1%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-blaVFs6-q8A/WX4wz0MumMI/AAAAAAAAFBQ/UWU6ifiIX7Q8-c6i0nqscaqjR6Yl7zvZwCEwYBhgL/s320/FoodandFitness%2B-%2B1%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grape Chia</td></tr>
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I will continue to try new flavors & possibly do a post in the future. For now, read <a href="http://www.epbot.com/2015/07/i-taste-tested-most-popular-brands-of.html">THIS</a> post regarding reviews of Kombucha for a giggle. The first one we tried was the 2nd one in her post, Synergy Enlightened Trilogy. Like I said, it's an acquired taste but we were able to drink it with relative ease. <br />
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On of the benefits since starting the 2 week test is my sleep quality is off the charts compared to before I started the 2 week test. My average deep sleep went from 3.5 hours per night to almost 6 hours per night. I wonder if that will hold up after getting healthy, fully back to work & working out again. <br />
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One of the podcasts I am listening to is <a href="https://blog.bulletproof.com/bulletproof-radio-episodes-directory/">Bulletproof</a>. I pick up one of his books, <a href="https://www.bulletproof.com/head-strong-book?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIneD7nuOx1QIVBAxpCh3IsQXdEAAYAiAAEgIsbfD_BwE">Head Strong</a>, at the library this week. One thing that really jumped out to me on page 232 is about sleepy snacks. <i>"If you wake up between three & five AM and can't go back to sleep, it's often because your blood sugar is dipping during the night, causing a cortisol spike, which wakes you up."</i> Holy crap! This used to happen to me EVERY night. I would wake up between 2 & 3 every night, toss & turn, for a couple of hours. After I finished the 2 week test, my deep sleep improved by about an hour a night. After finishing the Optimal Thrive program & recovering from pneumonia it has improved an additional hour. Last week, my deep sleep average was 5 hours, 40 minutes which is up from 3 hours 28 minutes in mid February.<br />
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So yeah, I am very curious to see if this trend continues after I am fully over the pneumonia & back to my normal way of living.<br />
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Speaking of normal way of living....I am 4 weeks into my <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/07/3-month-update.html">pneumonia</a> recovery. Yesterday was the first day that I felt I had good energy & could join the group for a walk. It was slow but I managed 2 miles around the Arboretum. It felt great to be out. It helped the weather was perfect.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fY6hup3cm38/WX4nDbLnslI/AAAAAAAAFBA/loRF5-b-G3MJ77IZUF1j6NQcwF8DvepxACLcBGAs/s1600/FoodandFitness%2B-%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fY6hup3cm38/WX4nDbLnslI/AAAAAAAAFBA/loRF5-b-G3MJ77IZUF1j6NQcwF8DvepxACLcBGAs/s320/FoodandFitness%2B-%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Post Pneumonia Walk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today I finally was able to join the weekly free <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/322081838241732/">Yoga at Ashland</a>. Again, the temperature & humidity were perfect. It feels so good to move the body.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-04ScCzjyfPY/WX41wukvDxI/AAAAAAAAFB0/TVXXPZhZghMXk7mPIHMmsaf8js26tG1cwCLcBGAs/s1600/YogainthePark073017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-04ScCzjyfPY/WX41wukvDxI/AAAAAAAAFB0/TVXXPZhZghMXk7mPIHMmsaf8js26tG1cwCLcBGAs/s320/YogainthePark073017.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outdoor Yoga is the BEST</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Tomorrow I go back to the Pulmonary doctor for a follow up. I am hoping to be able to ease back into the Livestrong program this week. I have no intention of running or biking until after I see my follow up CT scan on 8/21. I am going to ask the doc about swimming. It would be nice to get a few more swims in during August. <br />
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Stay healthy, y'all!</div>
Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-37994813172306736072017-07-20T19:11:00.002-04:002017-07-30T20:14:20.578-04:003 Month UpdateSo today is 3 months since I finished <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/04/20-days-of-radiation.html">radiation</a> for <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/03/dcis-non-invasive-cancer-my-story.html">DCIS breast cancer</a>. The actual breast cancer treatment wasn't too bad. I was lucky. I sailed through the <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/03/dcis-non-invasive-cancer-my-story.html">surgery</a> & for the most part the <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/04/20-days-of-radiation.html">radiation</a> was easy. Fatigued yes but I got through it without any major illness or time off work.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I2pyBlQLL5U/WXEsHq6ZtXI/AAAAAAAAE_0/tDYnlpiQM4k9KN0X1OehkbjC_BNVQpCgACLcBGAs/s1600/Radiation%2BTreatment%2B-%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I2pyBlQLL5U/WXEsHq6ZtXI/AAAAAAAAE_0/tDYnlpiQM4k9KN0X1OehkbjC_BNVQpCgACLcBGAs/s320/Radiation%2BTreatment%2B-%2B5.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last Day of Radiation</td></tr>
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I took May very easy. I continued to walk instead of run. I did a couple short bike commutes to work. We had a great vacation in <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/06/washington-state.html">Washington</a>. I came back to work after Memorial Day feeling healthy. I continued bike commuting a couple days of the week. I slowly started adding run intervals to my walks. I even hit the pool in early June.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BeLvWbp68mc/WXEtYn5XVPI/AAAAAAAAE_4/hBvy4QiXQnU68wVhEL4H_wKkcNjyfwtvgCLcBGAs/s1600/Pool%2B-%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BeLvWbp68mc/WXEtYn5XVPI/AAAAAAAAE_4/hBvy4QiXQnU68wVhEL4H_wKkcNjyfwtvgCLcBGAs/s320/Pool%2B-%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shillito Pool</td></tr>
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Then came the second week of June. It started with a scratchy, dry sore throat. Then a little burn in my lungs with any exertion. I figured I had a cold or allergies. Several folks I knew had hacky coughs so I figured it was my turn. I managed to stay really healthy all through the cancer treatment so I was due. I went to the work doctor & he said it was just a cold. So I didn't think much about it. Just went on my way.<br />
<br />
The problem was I just wasn't getting better. I dialed my workouts down even more. No more jogging, only 1 bike commute each week, used fins at the pool but nothing helped. I was tired. <br />
<br />
We went to New York to visit family for a long weekend at the end of June. We always hike & explore while we are there but this time I was perfectly content to sit & hang out all weekend. That damn cold was really hanging on. Over 2 weeks since the first symptoms.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dkiCpZLtJ7o/WXEtssDw_kI/AAAAAAAAE_8/sEWJsYDo75IuORkbBCCzYBGhyplCK2G-wCLcBGAs/s1600/New%2BYork%2B-%2B9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dkiCpZLtJ7o/WXEtssDw_kI/AAAAAAAAE_8/sEWJsYDo75IuORkbBCCzYBGhyplCK2G-wCLcBGAs/s320/New%2BYork%2B-%2B9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Queensbury, New York - Mom, Grandma, Steven, Jason & me</td></tr>
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The following weekend was 4th of July weekend & we headed to Savannah to visit Nina. I had to take naps every day. We barely did anything. By Saturday I knew I was heading downhill fast. We had rented kayaks & I could barely keep up. The effort was exhausting. I felt bad but I had no interest in exploring Savannah. Just the thought was exhausting. I was so freaking tired.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6iD9JH5eFbE/WXEtsy2_6EI/AAAAAAAAFAA/ApuQF6JTTBgnGDhWjMg_0WUo1-EaVSwrgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Savannah%2B-%2B11%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="1600" height="220" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6iD9JH5eFbE/WXEtsy2_6EI/AAAAAAAAFAA/ApuQF6JTTBgnGDhWjMg_0WUo1-EaVSwrgCEwYBhgL/s320/Savannah%2B-%2B11%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tybee Island - Me, Nina & Steve</td></tr>
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I had 2 extra days off at home thanks to the holiday so I was just trying to get home knowing I could rest. By the evening of the 4th I was done. I was coughing, barely could breathe & my chest hurt something fierce. I thought I had bronchitis. I called my GP office first thing Wednesday (7/5) morning. Thankfully they were able to see me that morning.<br />
<br />
To my surprise the doctor told me I had pneumonia or possibly <a href="http://www.curetoday.com/publications/cure/2015/summer-2015/pneumonitis-a-delayed-reaction">radiation induced pneumonitis</a>. Huh? I was stunned. She sent me to have a chest xray to confirm. While waiting, I was googling radiation induced pneumonia. I didn't like what I <a href="https://www.verywell.com/radiation-pneumonitis-symptoms-and-treatment-2249341">read</a> at all. <br />
<br />
Later that afternoon the doctor called me to confirm that I had pneumonia & that I needed a CT scan. They got that scheduled for Friday morning & she started me on antibiotics. By Monday (7/10) morning I had zero improvement so I called to schedule a follow up with my GP. When she walked in she said they are trying to get me in with a Pulmonary specialist ASAP because my pneumonia was severe. My entire left upper lobe was full of pneumonia. The CT could not determine if it was bacterial or radiation induced. She assumed bacterial so they gave me a shot of antibiotics & a stronger antibiotic prescription. She also told me no work for 2 weeks. I thought she was nuts at the time but believe me I have needed every bit of those 2 weeks off. <br />
<br />
I went to the Pulmonary specialist on Tuesday (7/11) morning. He showed me my CT scan & explained how the next couple of weeks were going to go. He re-iterated that they couldn't tell if the pneumonia was bacterial or radiation induced without a lung biopsy. He treatment plans were this: 14 days of strong antibiotics & steroids. If I get better, then it's bacterial. If I am the same in 1 week then we do a lung biopsy. If I get worse, go straight to the ER. No exercise, no work, no being outside in the heat until I start to feel better. Period.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-01eRzRiH7GE/WXEUO5MCP7I/AAAAAAAAE_o/lFTtiyJUHDAORFsd4ZHtR0WkN7BBxw6JgCLcBGAs/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="1600" height="251" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-01eRzRiH7GE/WXEUO5MCP7I/AAAAAAAAE_o/lFTtiyJUHDAORFsd4ZHtR0WkN7BBxw6JgCLcBGAs/s320/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See all that white? That's pneumonia.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wRaWxUEa0mY/WXEUOuWKItI/AAAAAAAAE_k/FPJ40uC967w2SiOlbSgmHSjSTTTjZAxogCLcBGAs/s1600/FullSizeRender-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1233" data-original-width="1600" height="246" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wRaWxUEa0mY/WXEUOuWKItI/AAAAAAAAE_k/FPJ40uC967w2SiOlbSgmHSjSTTTjZAxogCLcBGAs/s320/FullSizeRender-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That bright white spot is most likely pneumonia on my right lung</td></tr>
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Well, you would think being cooped up inside in July would be the worst thing in the world for someone that enjoys being outside & active. The reality was I was so miserable I didn't care about the mandatory couch time. The first 10 days were spent sleeping 9-10 hours each night, a morning nap & an afternoon nap. When I was awake I watched the Tour de France & HGTV. Each afternoon I would try to spend a few minutes online checking work emails but that was pretty much the extent of my working. <br />
<br />
I had such a hard time determining if I was feeling better. The improvements were so minor. I remember telling the doctors that if I stay still & don't move I could convince myself that I am feeling better but as soon I got up it was a completely different story. I was exhausted.<br />
<br />
I had my first follow up with the pulmonary doctor on Tuesday (7/18). I had little to go on from my perspective on whether or not I was truly improving. I resorted to my Garmin data & a couple of things others said to me. First, one of my friends said it didn't sound like I was as out of breathe when I spoke. OK, that's good. I still felt like I was out of breathe but that was good feedback. Second, the same pulmonary nurse saw me each week & she said I looked better even though I still felt rough. The rest was on my Garmin data. Yeah, total data nerd. <br />
<br />
I looked at <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/">Garmin Connect</a> to check my average resting heart rate & sleep trends. My average resting HR on June 4th was 57 bpm. Through the month of June it creeped up to a high of 67 bpm by July 2nd. I started antibiotics on July 5th. By July 9th it was down to 60 bpm & by the 18th it was down to 54 bpm. The antibiotics & the rest were clearly helping even if I didn't feel better.<br />
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The next thing I looked at was my deep sleep time. Prior to starting antibiotics my deep sleep was 3-4 hours per night even though my total sleep time was 9-10 hours each night. After two weeks of antibiotics I was sleeping deeply 5-7 hours each night out of the 9-10 hours. I interpreted that as I was breathing better & not coughing nearly as much in the night.<br />
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Using this data & feedback from others we decided to delay the lung biopsy which relieved me greatly. This was not something I wanted to do AT ALL. My next follow up is 7/31 & I am optimistic that I will be feeling much better. I still have a few days before going to work but I have gone 2 days without a nap. I have much more mental energy than I did even earlier this week. I am definitely breathing better. I am still very fatigued & don't see myself doing any real workouts for several more weeks.<br />
<br />
In addition to my <a href="http://www.usa.philips.com/healthcare/product/HC1077478/optichamber-diamond-valved-holding-chamber">inhaler optri-chamber</a>, I got a breathing apparatus called a <a href="https://www.monaghanmed.com/Aerobika">flutter valve</a> this week. The way the pulmonary nurse practitioner explained it was it is like doing bicep curls for your lungs. I use it 6 times a day & I noticed right away that it noticeably improved my breathing. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YHAaoA5aNCw/WXEw1g22rcI/AAAAAAAAFAM/YGtvmfpB1GIMyhE29Mef4qF1wVMY6p7VgCLcBGAs/s1600/Pipes%2B-%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1101" data-original-width="913" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YHAaoA5aNCw/WXEw1g22rcI/AAAAAAAAFAM/YGtvmfpB1GIMyhE29Mef4qF1wVMY6p7VgCLcBGAs/s320/Pipes%2B-%2B1.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flutter Valve</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZTyeCM-q_6w/WXEw1mBbCRI/AAAAAAAAFAQ/SCLPKFBTUp4gNWrjlzRl3Fp4USi7oEeZgCLcBGAs/s1600/Pipes%2B-%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1090" data-original-width="839" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZTyeCM-q_6w/WXEw1mBbCRI/AAAAAAAAFAQ/SCLPKFBTUp4gNWrjlzRl3Fp4USi7oEeZgCLcBGAs/s320/Pipes%2B-%2B2.jpg" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opti-Chamber</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The doctors said the total recovery time was 8-12 weeks provided I don't have any other underlying issues. I go back on 8/21 for a follow up CT scan to see how much my lungs have cleared up. At that point we should be able to determine if this was just a nasty case of pneumonia or something else is lurking. Fingers crossed it is the former.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HJyBmcUiaqo/WXEugC-p7YI/AAAAAAAAFAE/HaGMBFdSgdkpHbcCgT77n-Av61vrGGpiwCLcBGAs/s1600/Sammie%2B-%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HJyBmcUiaqo/WXEugC-p7YI/AAAAAAAAFAE/HaGMBFdSgdkpHbcCgT77n-Av61vrGGpiwCLcBGAs/s320/Sammie%2B-%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sammie - My couch surfing buddy</td></tr>
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While on rest, I have thoroughly enjoyed watching the <a href="http://www.letour.com/us/">Tour de France</a> this year. I have watched all but 2 stages so far. It has been the highlight of my days this month while recuperating.<br />
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Conversely, I am entirely sick of HGTV. I'm so over those shows. I think HGTV will now always remind me of radiation treatment & pneumonia. That channel is always on in the waiting rooms.<br />
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I read a few free prime books this month nothing worth noting. Just easy reads. My biggest accomplishment this week was that I finally got our paperwork in order to meet with a financial advisor. I have been putting that off forever. <br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Tomorrow I go for another <a href="https://www.massageenvy.com/massage/massage-types/cranial-sacral-therapy/" style="background-color: white;">craniosacral</a> massage. It helped a lot during radiation treatment so I am hoping it will help a bit with my fatigue since Monday I go back to work. I am hoping that I can make it a full day but we shall see. </span><br />
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Stay healthy, y'all!Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-34000830450731509492017-07-15T13:51:00.003-04:002017-07-30T20:14:08.130-04:00Adirondack CampingMy mom finally retired in June. One of her first trips was to visit Grandma in upstate NY. We decided to fly out there to visit. Since we just broke the piggy bank in <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/06/washington-state.html">Washington</a> we decided to give camping a go. <br />
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During one of my many campground searches I came across this <a href="https://www.campsitephotos.com/">website</a>. They take photos of campsites across the country. This was so helpful since we were planning to bring our hammocks & we needed to make sure we had trees. They had a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjNzSoOlsjs">video</a> of photos showing every site in <a href="http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/24480.html">Luzerne Campground</a>. The campground looked perfect. It had plenty of sites & didn't look like they were filling up for the weekend we were going to be there. Plus it was about a 15 minute drive from Grandma's.<br />
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I called a few days prior to leaving Lexington to ask some questions about availability & if they accepted walk ups. Then on a whim I asked if hammocks were OK. With some hemming & hawing the women on the phone said technically they can be used but not as your main sleeping arrangements. Huh? Puzzled, I asked if they had any signs posting this & she said no. She said if we had any issues we could just get a cheap tent at Walmart. Huh?<br />
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After some more google searches it appears there have been some issues of nudity amongst hammock folks in campgrounds so the government put some caveats on hammocks. I found a <a href="https://www.hammockforums.net/forum/showthread.php/126088-NY-State-DEC-says-quot-camping-hammocks-quot-not-allowed-in-DEC-campgrounds">forum discussion</a> that talked about this crazy rule. After talking with Steve, we decided to go ahead & bring our stuff anyway. He was able to fit his 2 person tent in the suitcase along with our hammock gear. <br />
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We flew into Albany on Thursday around noon. We picked up our car. We had a few options & choose the Nissan Rogue which happened to be brand new with only 3 miles on it! It was a great option since it gave us the extra room we needed for all of our gear. It was also a very comfy & nicely designed car. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pnoABj9Tgzo/WWj8n0KxWmI/AAAAAAAAE-s/DE_7CbLbhyccI_8To-B1LTLsF_x1cwzoQCEwYBhgL/s1600/New%2BYork2%2B-%2B8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pnoABj9Tgzo/WWj8n0KxWmI/AAAAAAAAE-s/DE_7CbLbhyccI_8To-B1LTLsF_x1cwzoQCEwYBhgL/s320/New%2BYork2%2B-%2B8.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brand New Nissan Rogue</td></tr>
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After a lunch stop in Glens Falls we headed to the campground. The folks at the gate gave us a map, told us to drive around & pick out a few sites we liked. The campground is huge with several loops. Reading the reviews on the web the first loop was to be avoided if possible. Too close to the main road. The second loop was completely empty & about 1.5 miles from the entrance. We checked out the main loop which pretty full since it was right on the lake plus the sites were pretty close to one another. I don't think we bothered checking out the last 2 loops. <br />
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We had picked one site that we really liked in the second loop & a few other back up sites in that same loop. We got our first choice. Site #22 was available all weekend long but we only booked the first night in case we didn't like it. We spent the next hour setting up the tent & both of our hammocks before heading to Grandma's.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7yoYGm-7v9A/WWj8j3Q7mCI/AAAAAAAAE-Y/gvydqbPY-xgQySrXNTcoaCw_GL5o2QmKwCLcBGAs/s1600/New%2BYork2%2B-%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7yoYGm-7v9A/WWj8j3Q7mCI/AAAAAAAAE-Y/gvydqbPY-xgQySrXNTcoaCw_GL5o2QmKwCLcBGAs/s320/New%2BYork2%2B-%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Site #22</td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VwcaEOs_JJU/WWj8lJiERiI/AAAAAAAAE-g/SYliX9mHrxs3_FRsvC69sMDwr3xf1I15QCLcBGAs/s1600/New%2BYork2%2B-%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VwcaEOs_JJU/WWj8lJiERiI/AAAAAAAAE-g/SYliX9mHrxs3_FRsvC69sMDwr3xf1I15QCLcBGAs/s320/New%2BYork2%2B-%2B4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BCER6HYKhAg/WWj8nOsPryI/AAAAAAAAE-k/uamAk-Jqt-U2miD4a-30aDabChEgs-VfgCLcBGAs/s1600/New%2BYork2%2B-%2B6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BCER6HYKhAg/WWj8nOsPryI/AAAAAAAAE-k/uamAk-Jqt-U2miD4a-30aDabChEgs-VfgCLcBGAs/s320/New%2BYork2%2B-%2B6.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very deep site</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_NBAFUajy1c/WWj8nWgwyBI/AAAAAAAAE-o/AgsjAb1fJmkEY1guVbUEAvyVsDl334aJwCLcBGAs/s1600/New%2BYork2%2B-%2B7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_NBAFUajy1c/WWj8nWgwyBI/AAAAAAAAE-o/AgsjAb1fJmkEY1guVbUEAvyVsDl334aJwCLcBGAs/s320/New%2BYork2%2B-%2B7.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loop Road - So Many Trees!</td></tr>
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The first evening we spent a couple hours visiting Grandma & mom before heading to the store for some supplies like water, beer, bug spray & a few snacks. Mom brought us a cooler to use to keep our beers cold. <br />
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The thing about campsites with so many trees is it feels like it is almost dark for like 3 hours. The sunrise was around 5:15AM & the sunset was around 8:30PM. The first night we were in our hammocks early & I got an amazing nights sleep. <br />
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Friday morning we drove to the little store across from the entrance for coffee. On our way back in we booked the following 2 nights stay. Steve spent the next couple of hours re-arranging his hammock before we headed out to the grocery to pick up some food for Grandma's. When we got to her apartment only mom was there. Grandma was out running an errand. While she was out, she had a dizzy spell & ended up at the ER. At 94 people don't take chances. Grandma didn't want to go the the ER but her friend pretty much made her go. So that is where we spent the afternoon. Waiting in Glens Falls ER while they ran tests. In the end, she was fine & we were home around dinner time. <br />
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Friday night Steve & I had a fire at the campsite. During the night we woke up to rain. It was warm that evening but the rain was soothing & brought in a cool front. The tarps did their job keeping us dry.<br />
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In the morning, Steve woke up & did his morning run while I went for coffees. Afterwards we went back to Grandma's to make breakfast & to await the arrival of my 2 cousins from Connecticut. None of us had seen them for 20 years so we didn't know what to expect.<br />
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They arrived around mid afternoon. You are never sure what to expect when you haven't seen someone for 20 years. Plus they were 5 & 7 the last time we saw them. They really didn't remember any of us. The reunion was perfect. They are such great young men. The conversations were easy. I am so glad they came up. It is only a 3 hour drive for them to visit so I do hope they will visit her more now.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ulZx0SvVUbk/WWj8oQjVpgI/AAAAAAAAE-w/PnQnsmQU_i87rmi703Je2vmPAlfHbsLtACEwYBhgL/s1600/New%2BYork2%2B-%2B9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ulZx0SvVUbk/WWj8oQjVpgI/AAAAAAAAE-w/PnQnsmQU_i87rmi703Je2vmPAlfHbsLtACEwYBhgL/s320/New%2BYork2%2B-%2B9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom, Grandma, Steven, Jason & me</td></tr>
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After dinner, Steve & I headed back to our site. Since the cooler weather came in there were a few more people in our loop but it still wasn't full. Thursday & Friday there was only one other person in our loop.<br />
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Sunday morning we again got coffee & started taking everything down. We had to cram everything back into our suitcase so we had to make sure we took our time. As we drove around the campground we saw a few other sites with a tent & hammock so we weren't the only ones. <br />
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We were all packed & showered up by 10AM. We again spent the majority of the day hanging out at Grandma's. Steven & Jason left early afternoon & we headed back towards Albany around 4PM since we had an early flight out in the morning. <br />
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Overall the camping trip was a success. We really didn't spend much time at the site but used it like a hotel room. We also didn't do any hiking like we usually do when we go to New York. I was still feeling sluggish from what I thought was the <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/04/20-days-of-radiation.html">radiation</a> treatment. I didn't know it at the time but I had the early stages of pneumonia. The pneumonia wouldn't come out in full force for another couple weeks though. <br />
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We got all our camping gear in one suitcase that we checked. Plus each of us had a carry on bag for our clothes, shoes & toiletries.<br />
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Camping Gear contents:<br />
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<ul>
<li>2 Hammocks & Straps</li>
<li>2 Sleeping Bags</li>
<li>2 Under Quilts for Hammocks</li>
<li>2 Tarps</li>
<li>1 2-person Tent w/poles</li>
<li>2 Thermarest Pillows</li>
<li>Bag of tarp & tent stakes</li>
<li>1 Camp stove --> Never used on this trip</li>
<li>1 bag of plastic wear</li>
<li>1 Helinox Camp Chair for me</li>
<li>1 Seat mat for Steve</li>
</ul>
Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-36951882934942562242017-06-18T18:31:00.000-04:002017-06-18T18:31:17.450-04:00Washington State!Washington State has been on the list of places I wanted to go to for years. Last year when our work trips to China started routing us through Seattle I thought we must take advantage of that. So when Steve said he was going to China in May I jumped at the opportunity. It worked out perfectly to meet him in Seattle on his way back. I flew out Friday night after work & he arrived Saturday morning. It was also nice that it was the week before Memorial Day so we had an extra day to play with.<br />
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I stayed at the airport Marriot that first night. Our plan was to spend the weekend in Seattle & then head out to explore the National parks. My flight was a few minutes early and by the time I got to baggage claim my bag was already there. I think that may have been a first. I grabbed my bag & went looking for the hotel shuttle. After a short wait for the shuttle & a short drive to the hotel I was all checked in before midnight. Things rarely go that smoothly in travel. <br />
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Steve's flight landed about 8AM & he was at the hotel around 9AM. He immediately got his Saturday run out of the way & we grabbed breakfast at <a href="http://www.13coins.com/">13 Coins</a>. Decent food but first reminder that this trip was not going to be cheap. After breakfast we checked out of the hotel & took the<a href="https://www.soundtransit.org/Schedules/Link-light-rail"> Link Light Rail</a> to downtown. I absolutely love cities that you don't need a car. We stayed at <a href="http://www.motifseattle.com/">Motif</a> right downtown. Nice hotel, great location. <br />
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After a short nap, we headed to <a href="https://www.rei.com/stores/seattle.html">REI</a> of course. We had to check out their <a href="https://www.rei.com/stores/seattle.html">flagship</a> store plus I had been searching for a weekend backpack. We spent about 2 hours getting fitted. I left with <a href="http://www.deuter.com/DE/en/trekking/act-lite-45-plus-10-sl-3340215-purple-red.html">one</a> but not Steve.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Testing out my new <a href="http://www.deuter.com/DE/en/trekking/act-lite-45-plus-10-sl-3340215-purple-red.html">pack</a></td></tr>
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After our REI trip we headed to the market but most things were wrapping up for the day plus we were thirsty. We stopped at <a href="http://oldstove.com/?age-verified=8639720602">Old Stove Brewing</a> for a beer. We then headed to Pike Place Brewing for dinner and another beer. On our way we found the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gum_Wall">gum wall</a> in Post Alley. After dinner we walked along the waterfront & rode the ferris wheel at sunset.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt. Rainier in the background</td></tr>
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Sunday was another day of walking, eating & drinking. We started our day at <a href="http://biscuitbitch.com/">Biscuit Bitch</a> for breakfast. Gotta love the name! Then went on the <a href="http://www.undergroundtour.com/">Underground Tour</a>. This was a really good tour & learned a lot of the history of the city, including the early day <a href="https://legacythreads.wordpress.com/2014/09/14/the-maligned-seamstresses-of-seattle/">seamstresses</a>. We had passed a shop earlier with rows of <a href="https://legacythreads.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/sewing-display2.jpg">sewing machines</a> in their window. After this tour we understood the meaning.<br />
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We then went back to the Market and met a guy with a parrot. This made my day. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parrot laying in my hand</td></tr>
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We stopped in to Seattle Brewing for a flight of beers while we contemplated what to do next. We decided on taking the ferry to Bremerton to check out a couple of breweries and have dinner. The ferry ride was $8.20 round trip & took about 50 minutes. The weather was perfect to do this.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On our way to Bremerton</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.lovecraftbrewing.com/">Love Craft Brewing</a> in Bremerton</td></tr>
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Bremerton is a Naval town & was pretty dead on a Sunday. Only <a href="http://www.lovecraftbrewing.com/">Love Craft</a> was open. The other brewery was closed on Sundays. We had a good dinner at the Horse & Cow before heading back to Seattle. We did see 2 bald eagles while waiting for the ferry to come back.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bald Eagles</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt. Rainier</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Return to Seattle</td></tr>
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Monday started with another walk through the Market & coffee at the original <a href="https://www.starbucks.com/coffeehouse/store-design/1st-and-pike">Starbucks</a>. We made a return trip to REI for Steve to try on some more packs. He settled on one but decided to wait since he didn't have a good way to get it home. We had chowder at <a href="http://www.pikeplacechowder.com/">Pike Place Chowder</a> for lunch at the market before picking up our rental car to head to <a href="https://www.nps.gov/mora/index.htm">Mt. Rainier</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Starbucks</td></tr>
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We picked up the car downtown & saved the airport tax. On our way out we stopped at the <a href="https://fremont.com/about/fremonttroll-html/">Fremont Troll</a>. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There is a Volkwagon Bug under the hand</td></tr>
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Around 2:30 we headed towards <a href="https://www.nps.gov/mora/index.htm">Mt. Rainier</a>. I didn't reserve any rooms in advance at this point. I wanted to be flexible & hoped for the best. It took longer than I thought to get there. We arrived at the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/lodging.htm">National Park Inn</a> around 6PM. The only rooms they had left were with shared bathrooms. We took it. The shared bathroom wasn't a big deal. The toilets were like public restrooms & the showers were a private room. The location was awesome. It was situated perfectly to sit on the front porch and gaze at Mt. Rainier. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt. Rainier from National Inn front porch</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt. Rainier</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deer at dusk on National Inn front yard</td></tr>
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We had dinner at the lodge - expensive and the food is just OK. There are a couple of places just outside the park but the options are pretty slim. Afterwards we hiked the mile long trail of Shadows loop.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xqrNNyTYU2s/WTRhzjZ-I1I/AAAAAAAAE5E/1zagC_DhdRgQTAqaPth0pXKqUlPADbWigCLcB/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B73.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xqrNNyTYU2s/WTRhzjZ-I1I/AAAAAAAAE5E/1zagC_DhdRgQTAqaPth0pXKqUlPADbWigCLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B73.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail of Shadows</td></tr>
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Tuesday when I got up I grabbed some coffee & sat on the front porch. The view is spectacular & so peaceful. We had breakfast at the lodge. I saved half of my omelet & muffin to eat at lunch. After breakfast we drove up the road to Paradise Lodge. It was as far as the park was open due to snow. Paradise lodge is open seasonally but we were there a couple days prior to their official opening of the season. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kJ8xf1TgeGs/WTRjRFzPRnI/AAAAAAAAE5U/STthhbCjbrco39rjWX_zCg8XEOistEZ7ACLcB/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B105.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kJ8xf1TgeGs/WTRjRFzPRnI/AAAAAAAAE5U/STthhbCjbrco39rjWX_zCg8XEOistEZ7ACLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B105.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paradise Inn</td></tr>
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The visitors center was open. We asked about trails & they have one marked trail called the Nisqually overlook. It was all snow but the trail was easy to follow. My new hiking boots worked great. I started the hike with two layers but quickly got hot. I was totally overdressed. I actually brought more layers & a winter hat. Who knew?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MA4ETQ7wrao/WTRjRHHqChI/AAAAAAAAE5Y/DifR44UCyV8_P25m0s0_RV90LsbEKAPwACEw/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MA4ETQ7wrao/WTRjRHHqChI/AAAAAAAAE5Y/DifR44UCyV8_P25m0s0_RV90LsbEKAPwACEw/s320/Washington%2B-%2B122.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nisqually Trail Head </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt. Rainie </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt. Rainie </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ciRTHeYVvfQ/WTRjQ9huZUI/AAAAAAAAE5Q/9douAya2TpgO7rBkV9n3LKNbkbeFLPmawCEw/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ciRTHeYVvfQ/WTRjQ9huZUI/AAAAAAAAE5Q/9douAya2TpgO7rBkV9n3LKNbkbeFLPmawCEw/s320/Washington%2B-%2B128.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How do we celebrate? A beer of course!</td></tr>
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After our hike we watched the movie at the visitors center & then headed back to the Inn. I took a nap while Steve hiked the trail of shadows again. After my recharge we hiked up to the overlook which was about 4 miles out and back with ~1,300 feet of elevation gain. It was a good hike. We had to run some of the way back to make dinner since the restaurant closed at 7PM. We barely made it. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zpBbZP7Zos0/WTRlTVMdBqI/AAAAAAAAE5c/VlH97zPFtmAFJMyjlKIZHSC9avyEcIUuACLcB/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zpBbZP7Zos0/WTRlTVMdBqI/AAAAAAAAE5c/VlH97zPFtmAFJMyjlKIZHSC9avyEcIUuACLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B129.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Wednesday morning we grabbed coffee & hiked Carter Falls. It was an easy out an back about 3.4 miles long.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carter Falls - Mt. Rainier Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carter Falls - Mt. Rainier Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carter Falls - Mt. Rainier Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V78fyu0rta4/WTRl1rJh2TI/AAAAAAAAE5w/r9LkLZHKTpMxzsYb2XNp1zvphvUM6WnVwCLcB/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V78fyu0rta4/WTRl1rJh2TI/AAAAAAAAE5w/r9LkLZHKTpMxzsYb2XNp1zvphvUM6WnVwCLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B138.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carter Falls - Mt. Rainier Park</td></tr>
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We had breakfast at the Inn before heading to Olympic National Park. Our first stop was <a href="http://www.olympicnationalparks.com/lodging/lake-quinault-lodge/">Lake Quinault Lodge.</a> Again we didn't have reservations. Our original plan was to stay for 2 nights but they only had 1 night available. The lodge was really nice & on a beautiful lake but after being at Mt. Rainier for 2 days it was a bit anticlimactic. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lJEvRfv6V7k/WTSkZkMwZtI/AAAAAAAAE6Q/fgFc29TGTDo1Ei8a2i6z_U74imLImWHygCLcB/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lJEvRfv6V7k/WTSkZkMwZtI/AAAAAAAAE6Q/fgFc29TGTDo1Ei8a2i6z_U74imLImWHygCLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B139.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Quinault Lodge</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wxeM4XJGLoU/WTSk6a-CbaI/AAAAAAAAE6k/jb-eTvjbQCw-XcniUeQWLR2VWz6WGUtVwCLcB/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wxeM4XJGLoU/WTSk6a-CbaI/AAAAAAAAE6k/jb-eTvjbQCw-XcniUeQWLR2VWz6WGUtVwCLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B155.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Quinault</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IX_f0jj_zSk/WTSk6zCQ_oI/AAAAAAAAE6o/RL24xD-rUW8z-d6_c_Dtnow3bXYAxd3JgCEw/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IX_f0jj_zSk/WTSk6zCQ_oI/AAAAAAAAE6o/RL24xD-rUW8z-d6_c_Dtnow3bXYAxd3JgCEw/s320/Washington%2B-%2B147.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near Lake Quinault Lodge</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L4GIfhdh8ZI/WTSkaEejflI/AAAAAAAAE6Y/VBx2YHjPajkoP4p7JX4ZyklIkdM8lN2GwCLcB/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L4GIfhdh8ZI/WTSkaEejflI/AAAAAAAAE6Y/VBx2YHjPajkoP4p7JX4ZyklIkdM8lN2GwCLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B145.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Worlds Largest Spruce</td></tr>
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One our way to the lodge we stopped at a grocery for snacks, bread & peanut butter so we could try to eliminate one meal each day. I don't know why we didn't think of that from the start. I didn't realized how desolate Washington is outside of Seattle metro area. <br />
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After we checked in we hiked the 4+ mile loop from the lodge. Part of it was along the lake but then it entered the old growth forest. These old trees are amazing. After our hike we bought a couple of beers from the store across the street & sat in one of the adirondack chairs on the lawn. As I said earlier, if it wasn't for Mt. Rainier clouding our judgement I would have thought this place was spectacular. <br />
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We bagged another lodge dinner & spent the evening in the room eating PB&J's while searching for lodging options for the rest of the week. There was no cellular service or wi-fi in Mt. Rainier. This lodge did offer wi-fi so we took advantage of it & did some surfing. I booked the Port Angeles & the last night at the airport hotels. We found some options for the next day, Thursday to check out. <br />
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The next morning we made coffee in the room while getting ready. The lodge did have an awesome lobby with fireplace. I would have loved to drink my coffee sitting in front of it. Steve wasn't in the mood to stick around so we were out the door by 9AM. It took about an hour to reach the <a href="https://www.thekalalochlodge.com/?gclid=CO-Zi5y7pdQCFQcoaQodwfIMHQ">Kalaloch Lodge</a>. Lucky for us they had quite a few options for us that night. While we were checking out the property a couple of folks offered to let us look at their cabins. The views were breathtaking. It was right on the ocean. We were sold. We booked our room & since we couldn't check in until 4PM we drove to <a href="https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/visiting-the-hoh.htm">Hoh Rainforest</a>. <br />
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We hiked the shorter loops around the visitor center. There is a longer out & back that leads you to Mt. Olympic but we didn't do that one. Supposedly, somewhere in the Hoh rain forest is the<a href="https://www.outsideonline.com/2000721/welcome-quietest-square-inch-us"> quietest spot in the US</a>. We didn't find that spot either. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiuTeGz4_gk/WTSpDj4ltiI/AAAAAAAAE6s/QiNy0-TTwhgsF3Qd1Bf9xi9CGQq9CEblwCLcB/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZiuTeGz4_gk/WTSpDj4ltiI/AAAAAAAAE6s/QiNy0-TTwhgsF3Qd1Bf9xi9CGQq9CEblwCLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B158.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Over 100 inches of rain every year </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j1Ajc1MWo-8/WTSpEH7Gm5I/AAAAAAAAE60/0BF9xkcjHGY5kRrDEo7Pba4FBmUbqh3IQCLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B160.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree Hugger</td></tr>
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One our way back to Kalaloch lodge we stopped at Ruby Beach. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0SHOhZrYGRY/WT2w1MbGvcI/AAAAAAAAE8M/z18KoWhfYB4Tv9ztawGyppg80hEEmLIPACLcB/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0SHOhZrYGRY/WT2w1MbGvcI/AAAAAAAAE8M/z18KoWhfYB4Tv9ztawGyppg80hEEmLIPACLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B176.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruby Beach</td></tr>
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We checked into our lodge. This was our favorite accommodations during the week. It was a cabin with kitchen & eat-in area. It faced the ocean & had a small patio with adirondack chairs. It would have been great to stay here for a long weekend. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w4h75LXFytY/WT2xgQBrIXI/AAAAAAAAE8c/alPs7fwrgsMwhspLtCkmff7CJlJ1tEJlACLcB/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w4h75LXFytY/WT2xgQBrIXI/AAAAAAAAE8c/alPs7fwrgsMwhspLtCkmff7CJlJ1tEJlACLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B182.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chilling</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dOjytHuwzFw/WT2xgNkCPXI/AAAAAAAAE8Y/scuFE1OW3jQsHVNbhQ_EacZhW-6HrmSpQCLcB/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dOjytHuwzFw/WT2xgNkCPXI/AAAAAAAAE8Y/scuFE1OW3jQsHVNbhQ_EacZhW-6HrmSpQCLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B183.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from patio </td></tr>
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We ate at the lodge & that too was the best lodge food of the three places we stayed. After dinner we walked the beach & watched the sunset. Steve started a fire in the wood burning fireplace & I tried to stay awake long enough to see the stars. Once the sun sets it is so dark which offers a great view of the starry sky. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cbkNY5hdtNA/WT2xgo_UmvI/AAAAAAAAE8g/mldRQzVaiuIiATixBNcASyQhR2-FH0gdQCLcB/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B197.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cbkNY5hdtNA/WT2xgo_UmvI/AAAAAAAAE8g/mldRQzVaiuIiATixBNcASyQhR2-FH0gdQCLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B197.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset</td></tr>
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The next day when we woke up it was low tide so we could explore further out into the ocean. We walked along the beach again & took our time getting ready. When we checked out the guy told us we should check out <a href="http://www.olympicnationalparks.com/things-to-do/hiking-olympic-peninsula/hiking-at-sol-duc-hot-springs-resort/">Sol Duc Falls</a> since we were heading to Port Angeles. It was about an hour drive to Sol Duc Resort. We decided to do the longer trail from the resort. It ended up being a 7.7 mile loop. Since it was early in the season there were several down trees on the trail. When one of these big boys fall it takes several others out. We must have climbed over/under at least 15 trees. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walking along one of the fallen giants. Picture doesn't do this justice!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We had one creek crossing</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ju4sg_DlP7s/WT20ChR0BrI/AAAAAAAAE84/aqr-dKkf6igh53PMjBBDSc2BJsrpQ3ARgCLcB/s1600/Washington%2B-%2B235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ju4sg_DlP7s/WT20ChR0BrI/AAAAAAAAE84/aqr-dKkf6igh53PMjBBDSc2BJsrpQ3ARgCLcB/s320/Washington%2B-%2B235.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Part of Sol Duc Falls - Really hard to capture in a picture</td></tr>
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After we finished out hike we headed to Port Angeles. We stayed at the <a href="http://www.uptowninnpa.com/">Uptown Inn</a> a couple blocks from the main strip. Nothing fancy but pretty cheap. We ate dinner at <a href="http://www.nextdoorgastropub.com/">Next Door Gastropub</a>. Good food & beer selection. <br />
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The next day Steve went on his Saturday morning run. While he was running I grabbed a coffee & walked around town. I saw a bike rental place. I hadn't planned to bike on this trip but when Steve got back he was telling me about how he saw bald eagles & seals on his run along part of the <a href="http://www.olympicdiscoverytrail.com/">Olympic Discovery Trail</a>. After we grabbed breakfast at a local diner we stopped into the bike shop to ask about rentals. We got a couple of bikes & rode about 17 miles along the trail. We saw the bald eagles but no seals. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the bald eagles</td></tr>
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After our ride we had pizza than started the journey back to SeaTac. We decided to take the Bainbridge Ferry back to Seattle. I love ferries - they remind me of visiting my grandparents on Shelter Island when I was a kid. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ferry ride back to Seattle</td></tr>
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We checked into our airport hotel & returned the rental car. Until we meet again Washington!<br />
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<br />Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-84533325858183013022017-04-22T08:56:00.000-04:002017-04-22T08:56:27.800-04:0020 Days of RadiationBack in December I was diagnosed with <a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/types/dcis">DCIS non-invasive breast cancer</a>. I blogged about the first portion of my diagnosis & treatment <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/03/dcis-non-invasive-cancer-my-story.html">HERE</a>. <br />
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The last phase of treatment is radiation. I met with the radiation oncologist the same week I met with the medical oncologist. I wasn't nearly as resistant to radiation therapy as I was the hormone therapy. I met with the radiation oncologist on Thursday, March 16th. <a href="https://www.healthgrades.com/physician/dr-marta-hayne-x8h3b">Dr. Hayne</a>, although nice, wasn't as open to discussion to radiation as an option like <a href="https://www.healthgrades.com/physician/dr-arvinda-padmanabhan-3ghlt">Dr. Ari</a> was. Of course I could have declined treatment but it wasn't like the discussion Dr Ari & I had. It was more to the point, how many days, what to expect, what you can & can't do, etc and I was OK with that. When you look at the DCIS trial data below radiation therapy seems to be the big hammer when it comes to reoccurrence. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ijcto.org/index.php/IJCTO/article/view/Fentiman/ijcto.0102.9html">B24 Trials</a></td></tr>
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My treatment plan was 15 days of radiation plus an extra 5 days to the tumor bed. This was due to the inferior margin. I was scheduled to come back the following Monday (March 20th) to get scanned so the planner can create the radiation profiles. They also marked me with body paint & stickers. On March 22nd, I went back for a dry run of sorts so the techs can make sure the profiles were accurate so we would be ready to start for real the following day.</div>
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Day 1 of radiation was on Thursday March 23rd. I picked the end of the day since it worked better with my work schedule. Plus afterwards I could just go home & rest which would be needed about 2 weeks into treatment. Below is the table & equipment. Every Tuesday was a quick visit with the nurse & doctor to make sure all was OK. Every 5 days the techs took an x-ray while on the table to make sure the position was still good. The treatment takes about 5 minutes total of which about 1 minute is of actual radiation. Most of the time is spent aligning you on the table using the body markings. Treatment is daily, Monday through Friday, for 20 days. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Radiation Table</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 1 Post Treatment Arbo Walk with Steve</td></tr>
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I was told the main side affects would be fatigue & possible sun burn on the treated area. It seemed crazy that only a minute of zapping would cause fatigue but about 10 days in I really started feeling it. Especially as the week went on. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/04/nevertheless-we-persist.html">Quarter Horse Relay Marathon - 3 days after I started radiation</a></td></tr>
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Another issue I had was a really tight, painful upper back. I think it was partially from the surgery & partially from the treatment. It was so sore that ibuprofen wouldn't touch it. When I got home after my last treatment of the second week I massaged some <a href="http://www.tigerbalm.com/us/pages/tb_product?product_id=3">Tiger Balm</a> into my upper back. That actually took the edge off. I used it all weekend & by Monday it was feeling much better. Unfortunately after Monday's treatment it was sore again. I didn't use the Tiger Balm on Monday since I didn't want it to interfere with the treatment. On Tuesday I saw the doctor & explained what was going on. She didn't have an issue using the Tiger Balm on my back but didn't want me using it on my armpit since that was part of the treatment area. Apparently I wasn't the first patient that day to complain about a sore back. They discussed looking at the table ergonomics the next day to see if adjustments could be made.</div>
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One nice benefit is the massages at the Wellness Center next to the radiation treatment. I had a massage scheduled for Wednesday after my 5th treatment. Since they are in the hospital they are trained to work with cancer patients. The prior weekend the masseuse had gone to a <a href="https://www.massageenvy.com/massage/massage-types/cranial-sacral-therapy/">craniosacral</a> training seminar. It was unlike any 'massage' I have ever had. It was amazing! My back felt so much better after I left and it never got really bad again after this session. <br />
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Around Day 7 you could start the notice the redness on the treatment site. The area was swollen & tender. The doctor said this would be expected until after the treatment is over. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baptist Health - Lexington, KY</td></tr>
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About 10 days in I started to feel the fatigue. It wasn't awful but it would hit me suddenly. I would take a 30 minute nap & feel OK after that. As the treatments went on the fatigue got progressively worse. Never so bad I couldn't get up but definitely more tired than normal. Also, as the week went on the likelihood of needing a nap increased. <br />
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The first 15 days was treating the full breast, the final 5 days was called a tumor boost. The radiation was focused at the tumor site. On day 15 after my treatment they set me up for the last 5 days. There was an attachment that was used & the angle was different. The setup took about 15- 20 minutes but each actual treatment is only about 30 seconds. Getting me lined up on the bed took more time than the actual treatment.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tumor Boost</td></tr>
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After day 16 & 19 treatment I got another massage. Since the last session went so well we agreed to do the same <a href="https://www.massageenvy.com/massage/massage-types/cranial-sacral-therapy/">treatment</a> again for both sessions. It was the correct call. My upper back is feeling normal again after these sessions. It is really amazing. It is the most relaxing massage I have ever had & I leave feeling so much better. My upper back is no longer in any pain. Yay!<br />
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My friend Ruth joined me for my last treatment. She was also there for my first dry run day. We followed up the last treatment with a walk around the Arboretum.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After my last treatment</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, they gave me a radiation diploma :-)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post treatment & walk celebration beer!</td></tr>
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Overall, the 20 sessions were not bad. I do have some general soreness, fatigue & itchy skin but that will pass. I am really grateful that the cancer was caught early & chemotherapy was not needed. <br />
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<b>What's next? </b><br />
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I have a follow up in 3 weeks with the radiation doctor then I go into monitoring stage. My next screening MRI is in late summer. Hopefully I can avoid the embarrassing <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/03/dcis-non-invasive-cancer-my-story.html">passing out episode</a> from my first MRI.<br />
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We head to Washington state for an overdue vacation in May. Lots of hiking & exploring to be done!<br />
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I signed up for the <a href="http://www.ymcacky.org/programs/livestrong-at-the-ymca/">LIVESTRONG</a> program at our local Y to jumpstart the rebuilding process. It starts the first of June & goes for 12 weeks. <br />
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I am hoping I can build up enough endurance to bike the <a href="https://gaptrail.org/">GAP</a> trail this summer.<br />
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Cancer, even a stage 0, puts things in perspective. Life is short. Choose to be happy. Plan the vacation. Call that friend. Tell someone you love them. Don't dwell on the past. Plan for the future but live in the present.<br />
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Lastly, I am so appreciative of all the love & support I was given during this process. Thank you, thank you, thank you. You never know what someone is going through so sending them love, prayers & positive energy goes a long way, even when they seem to be AOK on the outside.<br />
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Love & peace to you all!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">'Pink tulips for your last week of treatment - Jennifer'</td></tr>
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Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-83988536908257625052017-04-08T20:22:00.000-04:002017-04-16T19:04:02.518-04:00Two Week Food Intolerance TestI don't remember how I came across this <a href="https://philmaffetone.com/2-week-test/">website</a>, I suspect it was on Facebook but it intrigued me. I had packed on an extra 5 pounds this past winter, was feeling really blah & oh, had this little <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/03/dcis-non-invasive-cancer-my-story.html">cancer</a> diagnosis I was still processing. I needed something to kick start my metabolism & originally planned to start the Sunday after the <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/04/nevertheless-we-persist.html">Quarter Horse</a>. I decided to pull it in a few weeks for a couple of reasons. One was I already dialing the intensity down thanks to my lumpectomy & two, I wanted to be off the sugar & carbs prior to starting radiation. <br />
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I started the <a href="https://philmaffetone.com/2-week-test/">two week test</a> on Sunday March 5th. The test seemed really straight forward. The <a href="https://philmaffetone.com/2-week-test/">Yes food list</a> was short. Lots of veggies, high quality meats & full fat dairy. I estimated the hardest thing for me was going to be giving up the sugar in my coffee & all the fruits for two weeks. I knew I could reintroduce fruits after two weeks but the daily sugar is gone forever. <br />
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I was already pretty good with Sunday meal prep so that didn't change too much. I added a lot more meat to my meals - bacon, beef, pork, chicken. Before I started the test I created a two week meal plan & grocery list. This helped significantly with the food prep & meals especially during the week when time is short.<br />
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Breakfast consisted of some kind of egg dish. I started fancy with <a href="https://philmaffetone.com/recipe/4455/">frittatas</a> & <a href="https://philmaffetone.com/recipe/spinach-souffle/">souffles</a> but after a few days ended up eating an omelette every day. Initially it was really hard for me to eat so much food shortly after waking up. Before the test I was drinking a green smoothie loaded with fruit on the way to work. I figured out if I brought the omelette to work & ate it when I arrived it was much easier. My daily omelette consisted of 2 eggs, a splash of heavy cream, spinach, sautéed onions, peppers, bacon & cheese. I drank coffee with heavy cream but no sugar. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vhzGqKSiOYE/WOfkacX_TEI/AAAAAAAAEzs/0AjTT1S8pGkgzJnQ5YXmOFCdEsUx7NrgQCLcB/s1600/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vhzGqKSiOYE/WOfkacX_TEI/AAAAAAAAEzs/0AjTT1S8pGkgzJnQ5YXmOFCdEsUx7NrgQCLcB/s320/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Omelete</td></tr>
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Lunch was either a cabbage or spinach salad. I would add carrots, sweet peppers, feta and/or blue cheese, toasted almond slivers & some form of meat - bacon/chicken/tuna. The salad dressing was homemade - olive oil, balsamic, salt & pepper.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b9Dv6K1sbNI/WOfkmaw5HLI/AAAAAAAAEzw/WT3Gl8Toy3c88HKu-ma3m6SyG_UZIvukQCLcB/s1600/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b9Dv6K1sbNI/WOfkmaw5HLI/AAAAAAAAEzw/WT3Gl8Toy3c88HKu-ma3m6SyG_UZIvukQCLcB/s320/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B8.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cabbage Salad</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bBDx_Qo0CX8/WOfkoq9c55I/AAAAAAAAEz0/L8yOvKCGVKYO2LR4eEoPF_6PH34MVqSqgCLcB/s1600/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bBDx_Qo0CX8/WOfkoq9c55I/AAAAAAAAEz0/L8yOvKCGVKYO2LR4eEoPF_6PH34MVqSqgCLcB/s320/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B6.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spinach Salad</td></tr>
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Dinner was various meat - pork, chicken, fish, beef & veggies. My favorite was an <a href="http://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a51442/chicken-zucchini-alfredo-recipe/">alfredo recipe</a> that I altered to use 'yes' foods. I used heavy cream in place of the half & half & creme fraiche instead of the cream cheese. I used my <a href="http://inspiralized.com/">spiralizer</a> for the zuchinni noodles. I think I could eat this every day - it's that good.<br />
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For snacks I ate almonds, macadamia or pistachio nuts and string cheese. I didn't keep track of calories at all. I just ate to my hunger level. The first few days I was really missing fruits. I felt sluggish for the better part of the first week. Day 5 & 6 I had a wicked headache. By the second week I was not craving any foods & had high energy levels. My legs still felt dead which was really noticeable climbing the 2 flights of stairs at work.<br />
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I took before measurements & weight and re-took them at week 1 & 2. In two weeks I lost 6.2 pounds & just over 7 inches.<br />
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Here are the notes I took right after the 2 week test ended:<br />
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<b>Pros:</b><br />
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<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"- No cravings. Not stress eating or feeling peckish. This was a huge problem for me."}" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">- No cravings. Not stress eating or feeling peckish. This was a huge problem for me.</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"- Sleeping better, not waking up groggy. Another problem area."}" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">- Sleeping better, not waking up groggy. Another problem area.</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"- Garmin says I am getting over 1 hour more of deep sleep every night"}" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">- Garmin says I am getting over 1 hour more of deep sleep every night</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"- If I wake up in middle of night I fall back asleep right away. Prior to test I would toss & turn most of the night."}" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">- If I wake up in middle of night I fall back asleep right away. Prior to test I would toss & turn most of the night.</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"- Lost 6.2 pounds --> haven't been below 140 in at least 2 years."}" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">- Lost 6.2 pounds --> haven't been below 140 in at least 2 years.</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"- Lost a total of 7.25 inches across belly, hips & thighs"}" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">- Lost a total of 7.25 inches across belly, hips & thighs</td></tr>
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<b>Cons:</b><br />
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<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"- Legs are dead on long runs. Even when changing intervals to 4 min walk / 1 min run. Legs really feel dead around 6 miles. Although, this test is supposed to occur in the off-season so long runs/races won't yield good results."}" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">- Legs are dead on long runs. Even when changing intervals to 4 min walk / 1 min run. Legs really feel dead around 6 miles. Although, this test is supposed to occur in the off-season so long runs/races won't yield good results.</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"- Yesterday's 10 miler was a 4.8 of 5 effort. Even though I only ran 20% of the time."}" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">- Yesterday's 10 miler was a 4.8 of 5 effort. Even though I only ran 20% of the time.</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"- Weird taste in mouth. Ketones? Not sure what that this but read in the Q&A this may be the cause. This does make me brush my teeth more frequently so my dentist will be pleased."}" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">- Weird taste in mouth. Ketones? Not sure what that this but read in the Q&A this may be the cause. This does make me brush my teeth more frequently so my dentist will be pleased.</td></tr>
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<b>Other Items of Note:</b><br />
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<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"- If you are not used to food prep this will be a LOT of work. Also, our grocery bill went up but for me, my eating out bill went to virtually zero."}" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">- If you are not used to food prep this will be a LOT of work. Also, our grocery bill went up but for me, my eating out bill went to virtually zero.</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"- Withdrawals will be dependent on how you are eating before the test. I ate veggies every day & limited my bread intake so it wasn't awful. I did have some nasty headaches on days 5&6 & I really missed fruit. I was also eating at least 5 servings of fruit everyday."}" style="color: #1d2129; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">- Withdrawals will be dependent on how you are eating before the test. I ate veggies every day & limited my bread intake so it wasn't awful. I did have some nasty headaches on days 5&6 & I really missed fruit. I was also eating at least 5 servings of fruit everyday.</td></tr>
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The past few weeks has been spent re-introducing 1 food serving per day. The order goes like this:</div>
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<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":1}" style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom;">1</td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/list-legume-foods-4212.html","Legumes")" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Legumes"}" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/list-legume-foods-4212.html" target="_blank">Legumes</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":2}" style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom;">2</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Low-glycemic fruits (berries, grapefruit, prunes)"}" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">Low-glycemic fruits (berries, grapefruit, prunes)</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Medium-glycemic fruits (apple, orange, pear, strawberries)"}" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">Medium-glycemic fruits (apple, orange, pear, strawberries)</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":4}" style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom;">4</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Gluten-free grains (whole oats, brown rice)"}" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">Gluten-free grains (whole oats, brown rice)</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":5}" style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom;">5</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Grains with gluten, if not intolerant"}" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">Grains with gluten, if not intolerant</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":6}" style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom;">6</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"1 teaspoon of organic honey with coffee or tea (excluding agave, or any other kind of sugary substance)"}" style="color: #444444; font-family: Arial; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">1 teaspoon of organic honey with coffee or tea (excluding agave, or any other kind of sugary substance)</td></tr>
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So far, fruits are OK but beans & sprouted bread is not. A few hours after eating them my belly will feel bloated & I confirm this by my waist measurement. Both cases my belly measurement was 2 inches greater. Most days I notice a 1/4 to 1/2 inch difference between AM & PM measurements. For the first week I was taking my belly measurement every morning & evening to see how the daily food affected me. Now I am not so religious. I am only measuring if I think something had a negative affect. I can see how some folks could get obsessive over this. That certainly wasn't my intent.</div>
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I am back drinking my green smoothie most mornings with modifications. Now my smoothie contains coconut cream or milk, spinach, carrots, a scoop of almond butter & 1 serving of fruit - either banana, blueberries or strawberries. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wvVPX7dmK_0/WOfk4xiaNrI/AAAAAAAAEz4/Pjb1jJMXdgULOX7Twb1iFbUsLNNeAitmACLcB/s1600/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wvVPX7dmK_0/WOfk4xiaNrI/AAAAAAAAEz4/Pjb1jJMXdgULOX7Twb1iFbUsLNNeAitmACLcB/s320/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green Smoothie Before</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AG6DPbyNziM/WOfk7e9GSPI/AAAAAAAAEz8/jX0WIU3lefI0CVnxvrL1dAxdEYsaMSMbwCLcB/s1600/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AG6DPbyNziM/WOfk7e9GSPI/AAAAAAAAEz8/jX0WIU3lefI0CVnxvrL1dAxdEYsaMSMbwCLcB/s320/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green Smoothie After</td></tr>
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My current favorite post test recipe is <a href="https://wellnessmama.com/2637/grain-free-banana-bread-muffins/">banana muffins</a>. Coconut flour is my new best friend. These are surprisingly good. The recipe makes a dozen & can be frozen. These have been my mid afternoon snack. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qOXKLP8FFzI/WOl93RUxmyI/AAAAAAAAE0U/AVKKYedNoD0gH72wHyBG6lyJb6dUurX9wCLcB/s1600/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B1%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qOXKLP8FFzI/WOl93RUxmyI/AAAAAAAAE0U/AVKKYedNoD0gH72wHyBG6lyJb6dUurX9wCLcB/s320/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B1%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coconut Banana Muffins</td></tr>
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I also made slow cooked steel cut oatmeal. I used to make this <a href="http://www.theyummylife.com/Slow_Cooker_Apple_Cinnamon_Oatmeal">recipe</a> all the time. The only modification I made was omit the brown sugar.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QxXNn_rOmks/WOflH9QYy_I/AAAAAAAAE0A/TNe0Kpp1JI07SyDiwZMvBDzuhV7hnABZQCLcB/s1600/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QxXNn_rOmks/WOflH9QYy_I/AAAAAAAAE0A/TNe0Kpp1JI07SyDiwZMvBDzuhV7hnABZQCLcB/s320/Food%2BPictures%2B-%2B7.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slow Cooked Steel Cut Oatmeal</td></tr>
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It's been 5 weeks now since I started the test. I am down a net 5 pounds & my measurements are down 11.25 inches. Note that I actually gained back a pound but continued to lose inches over the following 3 weeks when compared to the post 2 week measurements. Personally, I really liked the test. My husband on the other hand has not. He isn't a fan of eating salads everyday. He also had terrible sugar/carb withdrawals, much worse than I had. Now that he is re-introducing foods he is more aware of how foods affect him. I think we are both glad we did the test but we certainly had vastly different experiences. </div>
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Fitness wise, I still have the intensity dialed down due the cancer treatment. I am planning to do the <a href="https://philmaffetone.com/180-formula/">MAF 180</a> test next since I already backed down my running to walking. The timing for me to do these tests have been good. This is something I have wanted to do for a long time but never had the proper motivation. That is one good thing about this cancer diagnosis! I am not sure I would have been motivated to do the 2 week test otherwise. <br />
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Happy, healthy eating everyone...</div>
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Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-4998805313679780522017-04-02T19:20:00.000-04:002017-04-02T19:20:10.270-04:00Nevertheless We Persist<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Back in January Ruth, Audrey & I volunteered for the <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/KY/Lexington/UrbanMountainChallenge">Urban Mountain Challenge</a> which earned us a free entry to a future <a href="http://racerise.com/">RaceRise</a> event. We picked a new spring race, <a href="http://quarterhorsemarathon.com/">The Quarter Horse Marathon Relay</a> and recruited our running buddy Mary to be our 4th runner.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">About our team name - Nevertheless We Persist. Around the same time we were trying to come up with a team name, Mitch McConnell said the now infamous quote<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> "<span style="background-color: white;">Senator Warren was giving a lengthy speech. </span><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; transition: color 0.2s;">She had appeared to violate the rule</span><span style="background-color: white;">. She was warned. She was given an explanation. </span><span style="background-color: white; box-sizing: inherit; cursor: pointer; transition: color 0.2s;"><i>Nevertheless, she persisted"</i> I never felt connected to the Nasty Women campaign but the Nevertheless She Persisted soooo resonated with me for so many reasons. We decided to name our team with this slogan in mind - Nevertheless We Persist. </span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tfpHZGCnQfA/WN2ZFFd_OnI/AAAAAAAAEyc/lfs2X_39X6og3jyWRuXLB_N9oy_ZacpxwCLcB/s1600/17504359_1449916248414187_2799048253456147494_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tfpHZGCnQfA/WN2ZFFd_OnI/AAAAAAAAEyc/lfs2X_39X6og3jyWRuXLB_N9oy_ZacpxwCLcB/s320/17504359_1449916248414187_2799048253456147494_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mary, Me, Audrey, Ruth</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The event was held at <a href="https://www.spindletophall.org/">Spindletop Hall</a> on March 25th. Packet pick up was the evening prior & we were able to pick our tent location. Thankfully, the weather was going to be beautiful. We arrived around 8AM on Saturday to get everything set up. <span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> The race started at 9AM. <span style="background-color: white;">The first runner runs 3.5 miles then each team member will run 1 lap (approximately 1.5 miles) before handing off the baton to their next teammate. There is a total of 16 legs. I had no idea how long it would take us to finish. None of us knew how we would feel running a 1.5 every 45-60 minutes. It was a unique race to say the least. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Audrey was our runner #1 & got to run the extra couple of miles. Mary was runner #2, followed by Ruth & myself bringing up the rear. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WFr-uVRMrAg/WN2csxHhK2I/AAAAAAAAEyo/kw4XvXYbcHgkJg_-9y6f0TIA_QIWO_NJwCLcB/s1600/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B8%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WFr-uVRMrAg/WN2csxHhK2I/AAAAAAAAEyo/kw4XvXYbcHgkJg_-9y6f0TIA_QIWO_NJwCLcB/s320/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B8%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And Audrey is off...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
Everyone was running faster than we each thought we would. The 1.5 mile lap kind of messed with everyone. It's only 1.5 miles so everyone went out hard. I originally was going to do a 1 min run/4 min walk but immediately threw that out. I switched back to 4 min run / 1 min walk. We all pushed ourselves on this race.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hq6QKD1IPNo/WN2d2bqZNKI/AAAAAAAAEy8/P4_5dFH5FNwdFzRYvvhU8Nd8wDXzWtoKgCLcB/s1600/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hq6QKD1IPNo/WN2d2bqZNKI/AAAAAAAAEy8/P4_5dFH5FNwdFzRYvvhU8Nd8wDXzWtoKgCLcB/s320/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruth handing off to me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rgLOABn2ROI/WN2dJO_83DI/AAAAAAAAEy0/SrZbiz8fVewi47YbpAvSeb0PLmp1JO8vACLcB/s1600/14691416_1449842191754926_7520897872355134454_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rgLOABn2ROI/WN2dJO_83DI/AAAAAAAAEy0/SrZbiz8fVewi47YbpAvSeb0PLmp1JO8vACLcB/s320/14691416_1449842191754926_7520897872355134454_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finishing Lap #1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The first & second laps were good, the third lap I started to feel it & by the last lap my legs were dead. The temperature warmed up into 70's by mid day which we all felt. I averaged just under a 11 minute mile for the 6 miles. Overall the team finished in 4 hours 42 minutes. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I wasn't sure how to eat for this race and to complicate things I was still doing the <a href="https://philmaffetone.com/2-week-test/">food sensitivity</a> test. Before the race I ate an omelet. After my first lap I ate one of my <a href="https://wellnessmama.com/2637/grain-free-banana-bread-muffins/">banana muffins</a>, after my second lap I drank a green smoothie and after my third lap I ate some dry roasted almonds. Overall my belly was fine but the third & fourth laps my legs were feeling it thanks to this test. My heart rate was really high and the run was a 5.0 effort. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">At the end of the day, the race was so much fun. It certainly helped that the weather was perfect. I really liked the laid back atmosphere & hanging out between runs. </span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IdNPeywxZb8/WN2c5QpvgZI/AAAAAAAAEyw/qjYCygjfqpcdXnTPX8yWhszHXFGV9KfYACLcB/s1600/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IdNPeywxZb8/WN2c5QpvgZI/AAAAAAAAEyw/qjYCygjfqpcdXnTPX8yWhszHXFGV9KfYACLcB/s320/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B13.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Audrey, Mary, Me & Ruth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j5Xuu9K0hG4/WN2c41N-EBI/AAAAAAAAEys/IlCbPHuxpV4zyXaUgH3k8ZpfGct0BuHgwCLcB/s1600/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j5Xuu9K0hG4/WN2c41N-EBI/AAAAAAAAEys/IlCbPHuxpV4zyXaUgH3k8ZpfGct0BuHgwCLcB/s320/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B17.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nevertheless, We Persist!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
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<div>
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Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-56350430356686668522017-03-30T19:32:00.001-04:002017-03-30T19:32:57.998-04:00Perfect 10 Miler at Mt. BrilliantBefore I was diagnosed with <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/03/dcis-non-invasive-cancer-my-story.html">DCIS breast cancer</a> I had signed up for the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ThePerfect10Miler/">Perfect 10 Miler</a> on March 18th. I had run the 10K last year & it was a beautiful course. I wanted to maintain my higher run base throughout the winter & thought this would be a great race to keep me training. <br />
<br />
My original plan was to start ramping up around the first of February & maybe even add a spring half marathon to the schedule. Well, then <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/03/dcis-non-invasive-cancer-my-story.html">12/21</a> came along & plans changed. I only had a basic idea what my treatment plan would be but no idea how quick or slow I would move through the process. I decided to start my ramp up on the last Saturday of the year, 12/31. I put together the below plan & was able to stick to it with the exception of the week post surgery. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" dir="ltr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: none; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 13px; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col width="145"></col><col width="75"></col><col width="61"></col><col width="61"></col><col width="72"></col><col width="61"></col><col width="61"></col></colgroup><tbody>
<tr style="height: 18px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Week"}" style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; font-weight: bold; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Week</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Tues"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-top-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; font-weight: bold; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Tues</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Thu"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-top-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; font-weight: bold; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Thu</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Fri"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-top-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; font-weight: bold; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Fri</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Sat "}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-top-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; font-weight: bold; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Sat </td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Sun"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-top-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; font-weight: bold; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Sun</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Total"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-top-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; font-weight: bold; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Total</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 18px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=R[1]C[0]-7" data-sheets-numberformat="[null,2,"M/D/YYYY",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":42728}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">12/24/2016</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":5}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">5</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-formula="=SUM(R[0]C[-5]:R[0]C[-1])" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":11}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">11</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 18px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=R[1]C[0]-7" data-sheets-numberformat="[null,2,"M/D/YYYY",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":42735}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">12/31/2016</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":5}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">5</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-formula="=SUM(R[0]C[-5]:R[0]C[-1])" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":11}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">11</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 18px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=R[1]C[0]-7" data-sheets-numberformat="[null,2,"M/D/YYYY",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":42742}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">1/7/2017</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":6}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">6</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-formula="=SUM(R[0]C[-5]:R[0]C[-1])" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":12}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">12</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 18px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=R[1]C[0]-7" data-sheets-numberformat="[null,2,"M/D/YYYY",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":42749}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">1/14/2017</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":7}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">7</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-formula="=SUM(R[0]C[-5]:R[0]C[-1])" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":13}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">13</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 18px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=R[1]C[0]-7" data-sheets-numberformat="[null,2,"M/D/YYYY",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":42756}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">1/21/2017</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-formula="=SUM(R[0]C[-5]:R[0]C[-1])" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":9}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">9</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 18px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=R[1]C[0]-7" data-sheets-numberformat="[null,2,"M/D/YYYY",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":42763}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">1/28/2017</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":7}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">7</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-formula="=SUM(R[0]C[-5]:R[0]C[-1])" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":13}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">13</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 18px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=R[1]C[0]-7" data-sheets-numberformat="[null,2,"M/D/YYYY",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":42770}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">2/4/2017</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":4}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">4</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":8}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">8</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-formula="=SUM(R[0]C[-5]:R[0]C[-1])" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":15}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">15</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 18px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=R[1]C[0]-7" data-sheets-numberformat="[null,2,"M/D/YYYY",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":42777}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">2/11/2017</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":4}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">4</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":4}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">4</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":9}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">9</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-formula="=SUM(R[0]C[-5]:R[0]C[-1])" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":17}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">17</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 18px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=R[1]C[0]-7" data-sheets-numberformat="[null,2,"M/D/YYYY",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":42784}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">2/18/2017</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":4}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">4</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":4}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">4</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Surgery"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Surgery</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-formula="=SUM(R[0]C[-5]:R[0]C[-1])" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":8}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">8</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 18px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=R[1]C[0]-7" data-sheets-numberformat="[null,2,"M/D/YYYY",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":42791}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">2/25/2017</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"1.5 (Was 4)"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">1.5 (Was 4)</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":4}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">4</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"5.3 (was 9)"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">5.3 (was 9)</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-formula="=SUM(R[0]C[-5]:R[0]C[-1])" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":4}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">4</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 18px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=R[1]C[0]-7" data-sheets-numberformat="[null,2,"M/D/YYYY",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":42798}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3/4/2017</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":4}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">4</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":8}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">8</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-formula="=SUM(R[0]C[-5]:R[0]C[-1])" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":15}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">15</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 18px;"><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,2,"M/D/YYYY",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":42805}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3/11/2017</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":3}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">3</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Walk 2"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Walk 2</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":10}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">10</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Rest"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Rest</td><td data-sheets-formula="=SUM(R[0]C[-5]:R[0]C[-1])" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":13}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 110%; padding: 0px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">13</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />After the surgery I did switch to a longer walk interval. Pre-surgery short runs were on a 4 min run / 1 min walk interval & long runs were a 3 min run / 2 min walk interval. The week after the surgery I walked the entire distance. 2 weeks post surgery I did a 4 min walk / 1 min run interval. I had to use an ace bandage to keep the girls from bouncing. For my last long run I did a 4 min walk / 1 min run for 8 miles again with the ace bandage. I felt pretty good until 6 miles then my legs were dead. I believe that was a side effect of doing the <a href="https://philmaffetone.com/2-week-test/">2 week food test</a>. The <a href="https://philmaffetone.com/2-week-test/">2 week test</a> will eventually get it's own blog post. I originally planned to start the test after the Quarter Horse but decided to start it sooner. I wanted to be done prior to starting radiation & since I had already reduced my run volume I didn't think it would hurt too bad. </div>
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<div>
A March running event is always a toss up weather wise. It could be cold/snowy, wet/windy, sunny/warm or any other combination. The morning started promising. It was partly sunny in the low 40's. My plan was to continue the 4 min walk / 1 min run for as long as I could. The first part of the race is on Huffman Mill Pike but the last 7 miles are within the horse farm. The back half of the course is hilly & of course the wind picked up for the last 3 miles. Thankfully there was no rain but man the wind was brutal. I was also grateful that Audrey & I did the entire race together. </div>
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After one last hill to climb I crossed the finish line 3 weeks post <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/03/dcis-non-invasive-cancer-my-story.html">lumpectomy</a> surgery. FU cancer!</div>
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Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-25744202488953021012017-03-26T18:06:00.001-04:002017-04-22T08:57:08.229-04:00DCIS Non-Invasive Cancer - My StoryI started getting mammograms when I turned 40. I had several in the following 2 years due to calcifications they wanted to monitor. When I switched to annual exams I managed to skip 3 years. Part of it was time flies by & part of me felt that mammograms would always find suspicious areas that would require me to return for follow up mammograms & ultrasounds which would end up being nothing. So when I was called back in November for a follow up mammogram I didn't think too much about it. <br />
<br />
<b>The Diagnosis:</b><br />
<br />
I had my routine screening mammogram on November 17th. They called me back for a 3D mammogram on December 8th & told me that I had 2 spots that needed biopsied. Well, that was different but I still wasn't worried. Honestly, I was more concerned about getting the biopsy before the end of the year since I had already met my deductible. Yeah, seriously, I thought that. I have a high deductible plan and knew a double biopsy would not be cheap. <br />
<br />
They were able to get me in on December 19th before we left for my birthday trip to Chicago. If you have never had one, a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stereotactic_biopsy">stereotactic biopsy</a> is not a pleasant experience. You lay face down on a table & you are raised up like your car at the mechanic. Unfortunately, there is not a hole for your face in the table like at the chiropractor. You have to turn your head to one side which for a couple minutes isn't a big deal but after 20 minutes is pretty miserable. There is a hole for your breast to hang through the table. The doctor will give a local anesthetic prior to starting. They use imagining equipment to pinpoint the location to get the sample. Each biopsy took about 20-30 minutes. <br />
<br />
I didn't think they would have the results back until after the holiday but they called me on December 21st. We flew into Chicago that morning & had just checked into the hotel. The nurse was quick & to the point. She told me the 9 o'clock location was non-cancer but the 6 o'clock location was <a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/types/dcis">DCIS</a> non-invasive breast cancer. Uh, yeah, heart drops into stomach. Really did not expect that at all. The nurse was great & spent time on the phone with me explaining exactly what <a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/types/dcis">DCIS</a> was & what the next steps were. She explained that this was a Stage 0 cancer & that it would be OK to not immediately jump into action. Her suggestion to me was ask around for doctor suggestions & to call back after Christmas to get a surgery consult scheduled. <br />
<br />
That afternoon I texted & emailed several friends for surgeon recommendations. My plan was to get some recommendations & research them when we returned home. I gave myself that day to process the information. The next day was my birthday & I really wanted to forget the diagnosis for a few days. <br />
<br />
When we got home from Chicago on Christmas Eve I had this pamphlet waiting for me. I originally told Steve I would wait until after Christmas to read up on DCIS. Well, that went out the window when I saw this pamphlet. So yeah, I spent Christmas Eve on the couch reading up on DCIS. Fun times!<br />
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<b>Surgical Consult:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>I polled 8 of my local friends to see if they had any suggestions on surgeons. Luckily most of them did. Several of them are either currently in healthcare or have relatives that are. So it boiled down to two doctors at <a href="http://lexingtonsurgeons.info/index.html">Lexington Surgeons</a>. The two doctors were <a href="http://lexingtonsurgeons.info/rogers.html">Dr. Rogers</a> & <a href="http://lexingtonsurgeons.info/walid.html">Dr. AJ</a>. I gave the nurse the two doctors & told her whoever had first availability I would meet with. I ended up with an appointment with <a href="http://lexingtonsurgeons.info/rogers.html">Dr. Rogers</a>. <br />
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The surgical consult was on January 16th. It started with a breast exam followed with a conference room meeting. It was Dr. Rogers, a nurse navigator, my husband & myself. The entire visit was about 90 minutes. The doctor did a thorough job explaining the typical treatment process for DCIS non-invasive breast cancer. Since there is so much research on breast cancer the <a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/types/dcis/treatment">treatment</a> conversation was very straight forward. He reviewed the biopsy results with me. My <a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/types/dcis/diagnosis">hormone receptor status</a> was estrogen & progesterone positive which meant that I would be a candidate for <a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/types/dcis/treatment">hormone therapy</a> after surgery. My next steps were to meet with a genetic counselor & get a breast MRI. After we had these results we would confirm if the <a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/lumpectomy">lumpectomy</a> was the correct route to take.<br />
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The <a href="https://www.baptisthealth.com/lexington/pages/services/cancer-care/cancer-patient-resources/nurse-navigators.aspx">nurse navigator </a>took all the notes for me. She sent us home with all sorts of reading material & various support therapies. She also arranged getting the genetic counselor & MRI appointments scheduled and eventually the surgery.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4qbJz5WWUuc/WNgr54OBv2I/AAAAAAAAExI/gYaVDq81OioPA0Uv3sMtfGplVUZ46fz2gCLcB/s1600/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B1%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4qbJz5WWUuc/WNgr54OBv2I/AAAAAAAAExI/gYaVDq81OioPA0Uv3sMtfGplVUZ46fz2gCLcB/s320/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B1%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Book on Breast Cancer</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EHyclTI-r1c/WNgr54h2SGI/AAAAAAAAExM/2b4x4y07lg0u52Cq2D5XlhE0FHGcLnfbwCLcB/s320/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B3%2B%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just some of the brochures they sent me home with</td></tr>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EHyclTI-r1c/WNgr54h2SGI/AAAAAAAAExM/2b4x4y07lg0u52Cq2D5XlhE0FHGcLnfbwCLcB/s1600/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B3%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<b>Genetic Counselor:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
The counselor meeting was the next morning, January 17th. We went over my family history of cancers which did include colon & breast cancer. She explained that about 10% of breast cancers were genetic but the majority were not. I decided to have the testing done regardless. They drew blood work to send out for the test. The results took about 3 weeks to get back. In my case it was good news, I did not have the genetic marker for breast cancer. If I did, the conversation around lumpectomy vs mastectomy would be more difficult. <br />
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<b>Breast MRI with Contrast:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
This one was entertaining to say the least. Well, I can say that now. When the nurse first took me back she noticed I had surgery in 2001 to remove my left kidney. Her reaction went something like this, 'hmmm, contrast is processed through the kidneys, we typically don't do kidney function tests unless you are over 50. You are 46...' I jumped in & told her I just had creatinine tests in October and all was well. That satisfied her but planted the seed in my head.<br />
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Moving on, now I am have my IV installed by another nurse when the first nurse is explaining what to expect. She tells me that if I need to pull out of the tube for any reason I will have to come back & re-do the test. This got me thinking to the last MRI when I had a panic attack & had to be pulled out of the tube. Uh-oh I thought. About that time the second nurse doing my IV tells me to stop making a fist. Instead, without realizing it I start pumping my fist. Oops, that makes blood leak out everywhere. Oh Em Gee, the blood. I tell the nurses I am feeling dizzy. The next thing I know I am waking up, going where the hell am I?? Oh yeah, I am at the imaging clinic about to have a breast MRI because I have cancer. Shit. <br />
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This was my lowest point in all of the treatment to date. The nurses were great. They got me cleaned up, changed my gown & gave me some sprite to drink. They told me I was their first fainter. Yay me! After a few minutes I was ok enough to get the damn test over with. <br />
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For a <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/breast-mri/details/what-you-can-expect/rec-20239454">breast MRI</a> you lie face down, face & boobs in a hole. Much more comfy than the biopsy table. They do some mirror tricks so you are looking at the main room instead of a dark hole. This was super helpful for me. At the beginning of the 3rd or 4th scan I started to feel the panic rise up but thankfully was able to quell it with some deep breathing & focus. The rest of the scan was uneventful. <br />
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I went to work for a couple of hours afterward but ended up heading home after lunch to sleep it off. Like I said, this was the lowest point of all my treatment. <br />
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They called me with the results the next day. They found nothing new on the left breast but found a spot on the right. They sent me for an ultrasound but they couldn't see anything of concern. I do get to go back for another MRI in 6 months. This probably would have been the case either way. <br />
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With the Genetic testing, MRI & ultrasound results all back I was now able to get the lumpectomy surgery scheduled. <br />
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<b><a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/lumpectomy">Lumpectomy</a> vs <a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/mastectomy/what_is">Mastectomy</a>:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
When I was first diagnosed there was a part of me that felt I should just have the mastectomy and be done with it. That would eliminate future mammograms, worry & headaches. At the end of the day the data just didn't warrant such a radical surgery & although I am not a very vain person it was hard to wrap my head around. The lumpectomy surgery was a very easy decision to make.<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/surgery/lumpectomy">Lumpectomy</a> Surgery: </b><br />
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Since this was a stage 0 & no lymph nodes were to be removed the surgery was outpatient. I scheduled first available which ended up being a Friday, February 24th. Surgery prep was no big deal, no eating or drinking after midnight. The first stop on the morning of surgery was the breast center. Since the tumor couldn't be felt they placed a <a href="https://breast360.org/en/topics/2016/10/28/lumpectomy/">localized wire</a> to help guide the surgeon. This was inserted using the same technology as the biopsy. It took about 30 minutes to get everything in place & yes, you leave with about a foot of small gauge wire taped to your breast. <br />
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I am not sure if all breast centers are like this but this one has a gowned waiting room for all the ladies to hang out waiting for their appointment. You have no idea what people are in for. Some are there for initial screening mammograms, some are call backs, some for biopsies & some, like myself, are waiting for a lumpectomy. So while I was waiting, two women starting talking about the <a href="https://breast360.org/en/topics/2016/10/28/lumpectomy/">wire localization procedure</a> I was about to have. They went on & on about what a horrible doctor they had & how she didn't use any local which caused them horrible pain. It wasn't just a quick discussion, they went on for at least 20 minutes. I finally asked them to stop because they were wearing me out. I told them I was about to have the same procedure & their response was 'oh, I am sure you will have a different doctor'. I just shook my head & turned away appalled at their behavior. <br />
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When the tech called me back I told her what was going on. I wanted someone to be aware that someone was really bad mouthing one of their doctors. Maybe the story was true but the bitching was so excessive I had a hard time believing it. Some people just love to dramatize things. <br />
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Once I had the wire in place the tech walked me over to the outpatient surgery. We got to outpatient around 10:30AM. I was called back to pre-op around 11AM where they got me all hooked up to IVs, heart rate monitor, etc. Steve was able to come back & hang out until they took me in for surgery around noon. Once in the surgery room things moved fast. They get you on the surgical table, lay your arms out, hook up all the monitors & tell you to think of really nice thoughts. The next thing you know, the post op nurse is waking you up in the recovery room. Crazy. The surgery took about 30 minutes. That post anesthesia grogginess is funny. I remember asking the nurse 3 times if I had stitches but could never remember the answer. I was in recovery for about an hour before they had Steve get the car. They wheeled me out & we were home by 2PM. <br />
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When we got home I made chicken noodle soup & barely finished eating it before climbing into bed to sleep it off. They gave me a couple doses of pain meds before I left the hospital so the pain was minimal. Later that evening I took another pain pill but that was the last one I needed. I spent the weekend chilling at home. I went back to work on Monday. Still pretty tired but not in much pain. <br />
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The incision is about 3 inches & no stitches. Glue & heavy duty tape was used to close the site. The tape stayed on for 2 weeks before I finally peeled it off. It probably would have stayed on another week if I didn't peel it off. <br />
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I had the follow up with the surgeon a week later. He looked at the incision & reviewed the pathology results. They got all of the tumor but on one side they had what was called inferior margin. Not too concerning but depending on what the Radiation Oncologist said they may recommend another surgery. Next steps were to get my Medical Oncology & Radiation Oncology appointments scheduled.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms?cdrid=46290">Medical Oncologist</a> (aka major turning point in treatment process):</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<a href="http://lexingtonsurgeons.info/">Lexington Surgeons</a> arranged both my Medical oncologist & Radiation oncologist appointments. First up was the Medical oncologist. Baptist has several medical oncologists but my appointment was with <a href="https://providers.baptisthealth.com/details/10129/arvinda-padmanabhan-oncology_hematology-lexington?Affiliations=3&LastName=Padmanabhan">Dr. Ari</a>. This was the appointment I was most apprehensive about because the discussion would be around hormone therapy. Since my cancer was strongly estrogen positive I was assuming they would recommend hormone therapy. I had absolutely no interest in taking hormone pills for the next 5-10 years. I am going to get to menopause sooner or later. I would prefer it to be later & not pre-maturely force the issue. <br />
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Dr. Ari was amazing. He really took the time to explain his thoughts on DCIS, the treatment options & the typical treatment paths. He sketched it all out to help the conversation. He explained his view on DCIS non-invasive cancer. He had a hard time calling it a cancer since it had a 99% survival rate. His point being that people can get to awful-lizing the situation. Being told you have cancer can mess with your head, even when it is a <a href="http://www.cancercenter.com/breast-cancer/stages/tab/stage-0-breast-cancer/">stage 0 cancer</a>. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yMVaVFidM5o/WNgqXwi3AvI/AAAAAAAAEw4/A2F7LkQOXTw4lyN7C8EPPJ6bpAkbFBD9QCLcB/s1600/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B4%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yMVaVFidM5o/WNgqXwi3AvI/AAAAAAAAEw4/A2F7LkQOXTw4lyN7C8EPPJ6bpAkbFBD9QCLcB/s320/QuarterHorse2017%2B-%2B4%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr. Ari's Sketch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
He reviewed the <a href="http://www.breastcancer.org/treatment/druglist/tamoxifen">Tamoxifen</a> clinical trial results with me & explained what they meant. At the end he told me I could take it or not. For a higher stage cancer patient he would have strongly recommended it but for a Stage 0 he said he would support my decision either way. He even said the thing I had been thinking, 'you will be watched like a hawk with MRIs & mammograms every 6 months'. I didn't want to deal with the side affects to slightly improve my odds of reoccurrence. Looking at the data again as I write this post, I am even more convinced I made the correct decision since I am doing radiation (radio therapy). Looking at this chart, there really isn't much of a difference between RT & Tam+RT. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--JAn2-Imkqo/WNgrEO28I4I/AAAAAAAAEw8/_tczeenAy_Y7L6BZitNM3Xw2OLoYRrvZgCLcB/s1600/B24Data.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="125" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--JAn2-Imkqo/WNgrEO28I4I/AAAAAAAAEw8/_tczeenAy_Y7L6BZitNM3Xw2OLoYRrvZgCLcB/s400/B24Data.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ijcto.org/index.php/IJCTO/article/view/Fentiman/ijcto.0102.9html">B24 Trials</a></td></tr>
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I really thought the doctor would say to take the hormone therapy, monitor the side affects and deal with them accordingly. This would also mean lots of medical oncologist appointments over the next several years. I was <u>so happy</u> to find out this was going to be a one & done session! It really turned things around in my head. This wasn't going to be a long, drawn out process with a constant reminder (daily pills/side effects) of this diagnosis. <br />
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Next step is Radiation Oncology which I am going to break out into a separate post.<br />
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Since this is really a fitness blog I have to post at least one race picture. I did the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ThePerfect10Miler/">The Perfect 10 Miler at Mt Brilliant </a> 3 weeks post lumpectomy. I will save the details for another post but here is me crossing the finish line:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t5Zwfjo6xL4/WNgtGiiYazI/AAAAAAAAExU/Ts-PH6zF2FU_wKUk1jhPM14LCJVga99NACLcB/s1600/MtBrillian10MilerFinish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t5Zwfjo6xL4/WNgtGiiYazI/AAAAAAAAExU/Ts-PH6zF2FU_wKUk1jhPM14LCJVga99NACLcB/s320/MtBrillian10MilerFinish.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Perfect 10 Miler Finish.</td></tr>
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Read the radiation post <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2017/04/20-days-of-radiation.html">HERE</a><br />
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<br />Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-27219363125897208922017-01-01T21:34:00.001-05:002017-03-19T19:23:45.804-04:002016 Top 5 Holiday Runs & Other Highlights from the SeasonWow! It's hard to believe another Christmas season is in the books. Sitting on the couch after our last holiday gathering on New Years Day I am ready to get back into my routine. Tomorrow starts a 12 week winter bike intensive training plan but before that starts here are my top 5 running events this holiday season along with some other highlights.<br />
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<b>Number 5:</b> <a href="http://www.ymcacky.org/ramble">Reindeer Ramble</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5krFS0YTdPA/WGmP9wM3LwI/AAAAAAAAEtg/NHqpSVq_MocbuGFtfOFkg4krDFWklt0LQCLcB/s1600/15439977_10154629113647891_6513080234938132830_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5krFS0YTdPA/WGmP9wM3LwI/AAAAAAAAEtg/NHqpSVq_MocbuGFtfOFkg4krDFWklt0LQCLcB/s320/15439977_10154629113647891_6513080234938132830_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Credit - Ruth Adams</td></tr>
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<b>Number 4:</b> <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/KY/Lexington/TheGobblerHalfMarathon">The Gobbler Half Marathon</a> - My first in 5+ years<br />
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<b>Number 3:</b> Saturday Morning Coffee Run Club Holiday Pot Luck<br />
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<b>Number 2: </b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FrankfortFrosty5K/">Frankfort Frosty 5K</a><br />
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<b>Number 1: </b>Birthday Run in Chicago<br />
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<b>Other Holiday Memorables:</b><br />
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#rwrunstreak2016 - November 24th started our 4th annual <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/rwrunstreak">Runner's World holiday run streak</a>. I ran 104 miles & Steve ran 137 miles in 39 days.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 1</td></tr>
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<b>Serving Dinner at the <a href="http://www.chrysalishouse.org/">Chrysalis House</a> Holiday Party: </b><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6lZoXfd-McA/WGmuEzlL8tI/AAAAAAAAEvc/Vo_JrZ2PS-AawcrNi6WvgKPhEWILWIT1ACLcB/s1600/Holiday2016%2B-%2B1%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6lZoXfd-McA/WGmuEzlL8tI/AAAAAAAAEvc/Vo_JrZ2PS-AawcrNi6WvgKPhEWILWIT1ACLcB/s320/Holiday2016%2B-%2B1%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.visitlex.com/things-to-do/murals/">Mural</a> Run with the Saturday Morning Coffee Run Club:</b><br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CpmD6BZHOpc/WGmr9Ubme7I/AAAAAAAAEvA/yZwq1R6w7kc7D2LGJxVEdw133jFtapJAQCEw/s1600/15541265_10107539047335523_5429397910270679298_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CpmD6BZHOpc/WGmr9Ubme7I/AAAAAAAAEvA/yZwq1R6w7kc7D2LGJxVEdw133jFtapJAQCEw/s400/15541265_10107539047335523_5429397910270679298_n.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Photo Credit: Breyne Middleton</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QNtREMxAGaM/WGmr9TiZrhI/AAAAAAAAEvE/n-7ACgy3JGkUC2V67I3M-R7DS58ocUXgwCEw/s1600/15578597_10107539046946303_790069278384750216_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QNtREMxAGaM/WGmr9TiZrhI/AAAAAAAAEvE/n-7ACgy3JGkUC2V67I3M-R7DS58ocUXgwCEw/s400/15578597_10107539046946303_790069278384750216_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Photo Credit: Breyne Middleton</td></tr>
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<b>Chicago:</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s6uHgJNkSWM/WGmpwNNRd_I/AAAAAAAAEuc/RGFMFDOcwoop9CogL-akJQt_6tMEKby1QCEw/s1600/Chicago2016%2B-%2B25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s6uHgJNkSWM/WGmpwNNRd_I/AAAAAAAAEuc/RGFMFDOcwoop9CogL-akJQt_6tMEKby1QCEw/s400/Chicago2016%2B-%2B25.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicago Blackhawks</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/---Ps0PoabAQ/WGmpvaFNknI/AAAAAAAAEuU/lgRwhU96k4M5snvJSOE6PWWmjr3kKtv1ACEw/s1600/Chicago2016%2B-%2B28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/---Ps0PoabAQ/WGmpvaFNknI/AAAAAAAAEuU/lgRwhU96k4M5snvJSOE6PWWmjr3kKtv1ACEw/s400/Chicago2016%2B-%2B28.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chicago Blackhawks</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bnOA2hED0zE/WGmpxm4i4rI/AAAAAAAAEuo/u27_btjVAUsU2A2nUK32gdbH9Rd_4Z-cwCEw/s1600/Chicago2016%2B-%2B31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bnOA2hED0zE/WGmpxm4i4rI/AAAAAAAAEuo/u27_btjVAUsU2A2nUK32gdbH9Rd_4Z-cwCEw/s400/Chicago2016%2B-%2B31.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A funny take on a classic Dickens story</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g_yK7jtOkUk/WGmpxXDtXVI/AAAAAAAAEuk/uIyTojbCIjUG4l3bOTmKoFsXnJbb9oiPACEw/s1600/Chicago2016%2B-%2B32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g_yK7jtOkUk/WGmpxXDtXVI/AAAAAAAAEuk/uIyTojbCIjUG4l3bOTmKoFsXnJbb9oiPACEw/s400/Chicago2016%2B-%2B32.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old friends</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J6qvP5SYKIg/WGmp4qcoQBI/AAAAAAAAEus/cmgUPNaxjOEgsIgA7QfTVfWSPw9-C3CNgCEw/s1600/Chicago2016%2B-%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J6qvP5SYKIg/WGmp4qcoQBI/AAAAAAAAEus/cmgUPNaxjOEgsIgA7QfTVfWSPw9-C3CNgCEw/s400/Chicago2016%2B-%2B3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maggie Daley Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GZbfUp224c0/WGmrN9JWWOI/AAAAAAAAEu8/eIXEzDjD9dAs_R5Rjwtzwr9rQgWXduVtgCLcB/s1600/Chicago2016%2B-%2B13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GZbfUp224c0/WGmrN9JWWOI/AAAAAAAAEu8/eIXEzDjD9dAs_R5Rjwtzwr9rQgWXduVtgCLcB/s320/Chicago2016%2B-%2B13.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fly the W</td></tr>
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Moving on to 2017. <br />
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First up is a 12 week cycling intensive training plan. I am not training for any specific triathlon but wanted to build an early cycling base for summer bike trips. The only race I have signed up for is the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ThePerfect10Miler/">Perfect 10 Miler</a> in March. <br />
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Cheers to peace, joy and much love in 2017.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PvsMw3LYVQE/WGmu12F-5iI/AAAAAAAAEvk/7no6028qT6MbR0gXrGcK1noYc5nVfj9MgCLcB/s1600/Holiday2016%2B-%2B1%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PvsMw3LYVQE/WGmu12F-5iI/AAAAAAAAEvk/7no6028qT6MbR0gXrGcK1noYc5nVfj9MgCLcB/s320/Holiday2016%2B-%2B1%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Santa Sammie</td></tr>
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<br />Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-86226873780505705872016-11-24T20:31:00.001-05:002016-11-24T20:32:54.840-05:00Thanksgiving WNC StyleThis year we spent Thanksgiving week in a cabin in the woods near <a href="http://www.brevardnc.org/">Brevard, NC</a>. The goals for the week were to explore the area, hike, drink beer & eat good food. There were wild fires in the area so we were concerned about smoke in the area. For most of the week the air was good but there were a couple of days that were pretty smokey.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saturday Morning </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tuesday afternoon after the smoke rolled in</td></tr>
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We arrived on Friday just before sunset. Good thing too since this cabin was a bit off the beaten track. We booked <a href="https://www.vrbo.com/798487">Serenade Cove</a> via VBRO. Overall, the cabin was great. It was about 15 minutes to Brevard or Hendersonville and 40 minutes to Asheville. <a href="http://www.transylvaniacounty.org/">Transylvania county</a> is known for the waterfalls. We wanted to explore <a href="http://pisgahnationalforest.info/">Pisgah National Forest</a> & <a href="http://www.dupontforest.com/">Dupont State Forest</a> and we did.<br />
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Saturday was Steve's run day & was supposed to be my last long run before the <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/KY/Lexington/TheGobblerHalfMarathon">Gobbler half</a>. I was still recovering from a cold so I decided to walk with Sammie while Steve got his run in. We started on the <a href="http://www.cityofbrevard.com/DocumentCenter/View/249">Brevard Greenway </a>& ran/walked into Pisgah. Oh, how I wish we lived in a town where trails were virtually at your door step. So.Many.Options.to.#OptOutside.<br />
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After our run we headed to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Dixie-Diner-297458993684913/">Dixie Diner</a> in Hendersonville for a late breakfast. They had a breakfast buffet but you could also order off the menu. Steve did the buffet & I had the pumpkin pancakes special. Good place for breakfast. After brekkie we headed back to the cabin to wait for Mom to show up. After she arrived we headed to downtown Brevard to check out <a href="http://www.brevard-brewing.com/">Brevard Brewing</a> & have some dinner. Steve had the American Red Ale & Mom & I tried the Munich Dunkel. Both were good beers. Nice location right on Main Street too. <br />
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After beers we headed to <a href="http://www.squarerootrestaurant.com/">The Square Root</a> for dinner. We got there around 6PM & was seated without a reservation. If we showed up later we would have been turned away. That is one thing I am not used to anymore, making reservations. The food was fantastic. Glad we were able to get a table.<br />
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Sunday Steve & I headed to <a href="http://www.dupontforest.com/">Dupont State Forest</a> to check out some waterfalls. The county is known for their waterfalls but considering the drought we weren't sure how many would be flowing. Turns out they all were. I can only imagine how beautiful they would look after a good rain. We hiked about 7 miles of the roughly 90 miles of trails. The trails were easy & mostly well marked. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GMLQcIE500c/WDdXUo6EalI/AAAAAAAAEpg/8fJ3Clctq-Yakt84tVmHv9kXiQndG0HigCEw/s1600/WNC2016%2B-%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GMLQcIE500c/WDdXUo6EalI/AAAAAAAAEpg/8fJ3Clctq-Yakt84tVmHv9kXiQndG0HigCEw/s320/WNC2016%2B-%2B5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hooker Falls</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fr0rAZN91Kc/WDdXyLAFTBI/AAAAAAAAEpg/ealUiirfnYoDUqafzW3ZMfeJpU00y6OQQCEw/s320/WNC2016%2B-%2B9.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Dense</td></tr>
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Sunday night we headed to <a href="http://marcotrattoria.com/Dinner.html">Marco Trattoria</a> in Brevard for dinner. I can't remember what we ordered but I do remember it was a cool place and another fantastic meal. Gobble.Gobble.'till.You.Waddle.<br />
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Monday I did my last longish run. I was supposed to do 8 miles for my last long run but decided to only do 5 since we did such a long hike the day before. We went back to <a href="http://www.cityofbrevard.com/DocumentCenter/View/249">Brevard Greenway</a>. I ran the Greenway & Steve walked Sammie into Pisgah. <br />
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After our run & showers we headed to Asheville. On our way we stopped for lunch and a flight at <a href="http://www.sierranevada.com/brewery/north-carolina/brewery-tour">Sierra Nevada</a>. If you want to do a tour make sure to book in advance. This place is amazing!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HEnGztFoqT4/WDeHH57twyI/AAAAAAAAEpw/56tLG0Xv8nw5QZXDxJ6KEAqzik1XD6B4gCLcB/s1600/WNC2016%2B-%2B80.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HEnGztFoqT4/WDeHH57twyI/AAAAAAAAEpw/56tLG0Xv8nw5QZXDxJ6KEAqzik1XD6B4gCLcB/s320/WNC2016%2B-%2B80.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sierra Nevada Flight</td></tr>
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After lunch we stopped in at REI and then went to check out <a href="http://www.newbelgium.com/Brewery/asheville">New Belgium Brewery</a>. Their flights are twice the amount as Sierra Nevada. So we had a lot of beer to drink. In the past, I have loved New Belgium beer but compared to the other breweries in town this was my least favorite. Kind of a let down actually.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2x-DJ0GGhp0/WDeHHwtoYiI/AAAAAAAAEp0/Pfq-Ld5EWFkWmnRFkrHcXoC7i4ZgLdKuQCEw/s1600/WNC2016%2B-%2B83.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2x-DJ0GGhp0/WDeHHwtoYiI/AAAAAAAAEp0/Pfq-Ld5EWFkWmnRFkrHcXoC7i4ZgLdKuQCEw/s320/WNC2016%2B-%2B83.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Belgium Brewing</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1qnFIBmhgeo/WDeHWkw3xnI/AAAAAAAAEp4/woM6Hxr7AbQHSyb-0kO8M-dU__ECFnzCACEw/s1600/WNC2016%2B-%2B91.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1qnFIBmhgeo/WDeHWkw3xnI/AAAAAAAAEp4/woM6Hxr7AbQHSyb-0kO8M-dU__ECFnzCACEw/s320/WNC2016%2B-%2B91.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Belgium Brewing</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WKwlEpeQTws/WDeHHfX6U8I/AAAAAAAAEps/YC_3Pjj2A2kCsVuKLjmF46alRCxCWTymgCEw/s1600/WNC2016%2B-%2B86.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WKwlEpeQTws/WDeHHfX6U8I/AAAAAAAAEps/YC_3Pjj2A2kCsVuKLjmF46alRCxCWTymgCEw/s320/WNC2016%2B-%2B86.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Belgium Brewing</td></tr>
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Tuesday was another hike in Pisgah. This time we did a 4 mile loop that included part of Black Mountain trail which is very popular with the MTB folks. Steve was all about getting a mountain bike to check out the trails but I was Debbie Downer. I wasn't interested in mountain biking this trip at all.<br />
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After getting cleaned up we went back into Brevard while it was still daylight to see if we could locate any white squirrels. No such luck. We also wanted to walk through Main Street in the daylight to check out what it had to offer. Really cute strip with some nice stores, a couple of breweries & some nice dining options. We stopped into <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EcustaonMainSt/">Eucusta Brewing</a> to check out their beers. Steve got the IPA, I got the porter & Mom had the coffee brown ale. All were really tasty. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-802zTTSKWG8/WDdXknKzWyI/AAAAAAAAEpY/Vp7o4ku5K4kj384yufHI0bCtT0ZCk0y-QCEw/s1600/WNC2016%2B-%2B6%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-802zTTSKWG8/WDdXknKzWyI/AAAAAAAAEpY/Vp7o4ku5K4kj384yufHI0bCtT0ZCk0y-QCEw/s320/WNC2016%2B-%2B6%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eucusta Brewing Downtown</td></tr>
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On the bartender's suggestion we had dinner at <a href="http://magpiemeatandthree.com/">Magpie Meat & Three</a>. It did not disappoint. We ate really well this trip. I am going to be waddling through this half marathon.<br />
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Wednesday we hiked another trail in Pisgah. This time the Cat Gap trail loop. About 4.5 miles & some decent climbing. Our legs were pretty tired by this point. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cat Gap Trail - Pisgah</td></tr>
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Wednesday night we went back into Asheville to see the Winter Lights display at the <a href="http://www.ncarboretum.org/exhibits-events/winter-lights/">North Carolina Arboretum</a>. It was a perfect temperature to walk through the gardens to see the display. Very tastefully done.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter Lights</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter Lights</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter Lights - The only way to get a picture with Mom.</td></tr>
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Thursday after watching some of the Macy's parade we drove to Hendersonville to check out the <a href="http://www.hendersonvillenc.gov/Data/Sites/1/media/Departments/parks/oklawaha-trail-greenway-map.pdf">Oklawaha Greenway</a> and to kick off the <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/rwrunstreak">2016 Runner's World holiday run streak.</a> It is a decent trail that connects several parks in town.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 1 of the 2016 #RWRunStreak</td></tr>
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After our run we drove through downtown Hendersonville. Nice main street with lots of shops & restaurants. Since it was Thanksgiving everything was closed. We spent the rest of the day at the cabin & eventually made our very non-traditional Thanksgiving dinner of ravioli, salad & garlic bread along with a bottle of red wine. <br />
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As always, it is sad when vacation comes to an end. We head home Friday in time for my first half marathon in 5+ years. <br />
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Happy Thanksgiving y'all!!<br />
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<br />Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-56268788974830436152016-09-24T16:47:00.000-04:002016-09-24T16:47:54.511-04:00Tri for Sight - 6th Edition<a href="http://www.triforsight.com/">Tri for Sight</a> is where <a href="http://pages.teamintraining.org/ky/CoxTri09/awilson6or">it all started</a>. In 2009, I joined <a href="http://www.teamintraining.org/">Team in Training</a> to raise money & awareness for the Leukemia & Lymphoma society in memory of my Dad who lost his battle with Multiple Myeloma in 2006. This year was my 6th <a href="http://www.triforsight.com/">Tri for Sight</a>. <br />
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This year T4S was the Sunday after we got back from our <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2016/09/c-canal-bike-trip.html">C&O bike trip</a>. I had no expectations on the swim or run. I only swam once since the <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2016/08/laporte-ymca-triathlon-2016.html">LaPorte Triathlon</a> in August. I did finally get that cortisone shot in my shoulder & it has seemed to help the pain. I have had 2 pain free swims since the shot. I still am not in the pool regularly but I am hoping that soon I can start swimming on a more regular basis.<br />
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A short lived cool front came in the day before the race so the weather was perfect. Even had to put on a long sleeved shirt & vest to stay warm.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Transition Ready</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most of Team Steve - Becky, Steve, Me & Audrey</td></tr>
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As usual, I had about an hour wait after the first swimmer before I started my swim. My swim was still slow but I could at least pull with my right arm without pain. Overall the swim was fine, had some of the usual traffic but for the most part it was a clear swim. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yay - finally lining up on the pool deck!</td></tr>
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400m Swim time: 11m05s, 11/13 AG<br />
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T1 time: 2m01s, 3/13 AG<br />
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I was curious how the bike was going to feel. On one hand I should be fast since that is all I did in August but on the other hand I knew I wasn't fully recovered from our trip. Once on the road I could feel my legs were still fatigued. <br />
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There was a bike wreck on one of the curves which slowed most everyone down. Thankfully the guy wasn't seriously hurt but they did have to call an ambulance & fire engine. On my way back I chose to stop & let them go by. The road was narrow & with bikes on both sides it was difficult for them to get through. I probably lost about a minute doing this but if it was me I would hope folks would put their race aside let the emergency vehicles through. <br />
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12.6 mile Bike time: 45m31s, 6/13 AG<br />
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T2 time: 1m00s, 7/13<br />
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The run was an out & back. Doing a 5 minute run & 1 minute walk has been working out pretty well for me. I was surprised the run felt really good. I had done a brick a few nights before & it felt awful but it was still hot. I think the cooler temperatures made a huge difference in comfort level.<br />
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5K Run time: 31m49s, 9/13 AG<br />
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Overall time: 1h31m28s, 9/13 AG<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished!</td></tr>
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The oldest female finisher was 84 years old. One of the TNT folks told me she has done hundreds of triathlons over the years. I find this so amazing. I really respect the men & women who are still competing well into their golden years. It did get me thinking of how many triathlons I have completed since I started this journey. Not counting the year I did T4S as a relay, I have completed 26 triathlons since 2009. At this rate I will have completed 170+ triathlons when I am 84. Sweet!<br />
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Next up: <a href="https://runsignup.com/Race/KY/Lexington/TheGobblerHalfMarathon">Gobble 1/2 Marathon</a> in November<br />
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Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-11124857411305806762016-09-10T13:19:00.001-04:002016-09-10T13:22:43.087-04:00C&O Canal - Gear, Tips & Helpful ResourcesSee <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2016/09/c-canal-bike-trip.html">THIS</a> post on our day to day travels on the C&O Canal from Cumberland, MD to Washington DC.<br />
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<b>Gear! </b><br />
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We were fully self supported on this trip. There are plenty of outfitters in the area that will provide SAG for a fee. We saw a couple of groups that went this route but we chose to be self supported and are glad we did. <br />
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From our trip last year on the <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2015/08/wild-wonderful-bike-camping.html">Greenbriar River Trail</a> I learned that a trailer is NOT the way to go. Some folks use a single wheel trailer & say that is fine but no thanks. This past winter I got my bike outfitted with a front rack & panniers. It did take me about a couple of miles on the trail to get used to the extra weight but I was able to go so much farther in a day without the trailer. <br />
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My bike is a Fuji Absolute 2.0 Hybrid with gravel tires. I did get bar extensions added this summer & that made a world of difference on comfort. It gave me options on riding positions which really helped especially as the butt got sore.<br />
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Steve has a Salsa Fargo also equipped with front & rear Orlieb panniers. We both have a trunk bag & a front handlebar bag for quick access. Steve has a phone mount on this handlebars. He also has a top tube bento box that he keeps his phone charging brick in. <br />
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I have front & rear <a href="https://www.rei.com/product/870522/ortlieb-back-roller-high-visibility-panniers-pair">Ortlieb waterproof bags</a>. It is amazing how much stuff you can carry! A couple weeks before our trip we spent an afternoon laying all the gear we thought we needed out & loading in our bags to get an idea of weight. A couple nights before we left we again loaded & weighed everything but also created an inventory list for each bag. This really helped me when I needed something specific but didn't want to dig through every bag.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve's Gear List </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andrea's Gear List</td></tr>
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We also used smaller bags to organize stuff within each bag. For me this system worked great. For Steve, not so much. He seemed to always have a hard time finding stuff & would have to rummage through every bag. This is just some of the stuff spread out our DC hotel room. <br />
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When we were at the B&B, Will asked if we used everything. Surprising, I used just about everything in these bags. I didn't use the rain fly but had we camped that 3rd night we certainly would have. There was one pair of running shorts I didn't wear either but everything else got at least 1 wear if not multiple wears. We did laundry at the B&B so we were able to get away with 4 sets of cycling clothes yet only have to wear them once between washes.<br />
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We packed up all our cycling bags in Lexington & packed an overnight bag for our first & last night of the trip in Cumberland which included our first day of riding clothes. That way, we only had to add a few items to our panniers the morning we started out on the C&O.<br />
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<b>Tips!! </b><br />
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<ul>
<li><b>Bug Spray</b> Bring Bug spray & apply before you even need it. I ended up with a bug bite for every mile we rode. I think we got into a chiggers nest or something. I had at least 15-20 bites on both legs & the back of my arms. Mosquitos will eat you up at night so bring a bug net if camping. I also got one mystery bite on my leg, probably some kind of spider. It still is on my leg almost 2 weeks later.</li>
<li><b>Water</b> The water on the trail is treated with Iodine. It tastes terrible. Refill your bottles in town whenever you can. Every place we ate at offered to fill up our bottles. If you do fill your bottles with the trail water the taste will stay in the bottle until you give them a good wash. Don't bother trying to boil the trail water to make coffee. It will taste terrible. Steve had a filter but we didn't use it so maybe that would have filtered out the taste - not sure on that one.</li>
<li><b>Food</b> I had a bag full of food just in case. We did need it the first day for lunch & 2 days on the trail for breakfast as well as snacks. All other meals we were able to get in towns along the way. </li>
<li><b>Hills </b> Most towns are up a hill from the C&O. Not crazy steep hills but when you have your heavy bike loaded down with 60 pounds of gear & it is 90+ degrees they are pretty tough. Cumberland, Hancock & Frederick are right on the trail. All other towns are a mile to several miles off the trail. Just be aware of this.</li>
<li><b>Lodging </b>There are Hiker/Biker campsites every 5-10 miles. They all had a picnic table, porto potty & water. Most had trees to hang your hammock in. Some were right on the trail, some were farther away. Be advised, you ride near a train line for part of the trail. Our first night, there were train tracks across from the river which you couldn't see but at midnight when you are trying to sleep you can certainly hear it. <a href="http://bikewashington.org/canal/plan-camping.php">THIS</a> site does a pretty good job listing the sites you want to have ear plugs for.</li>
<li><b>Trail Condition</b> - The trail is bumpy.184 miles of bumpy. Get used to it. You will spend a good portion of time navigating around roots, rocks & ruts. I almost bit it twice getting into a deep rut. I thought for sure I was going down but at the last second the rut kicked me out. The beginning of the week it was dry so the trail was very dusty. Our bikes were filthy by day 3 when we got to the B&B. The 4th day on the trail it was muddy so they were coated in mud by the end of the day. Bring chain lube because you will want to rinse your bike off every chance you get. Also, be advised if you run off the trail you will either be in water or down an embankment for the majority of the ride. The trail isn't narrow but it can be nerve wracking in some areas.</li>
<li><b><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/app/c-o-companion/id457469128?mt=8">C&O Companion App </a></b>- Steve downloaded this app & used it quite a bit on the trail. </li>
<li><b>Cell Service</b> - I have T-Mobile & Steve has AT&T. He had cell & data the majority of the trail. I had cell but only had data in Sharpsburg, Leesburg & as we got close to DC.</li>
</ul>
<b>Resources!!!</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<a href="http://bikewashington.org/canal/index.php">The C&O Bicycling Guide</a> - I studied this website most of the summer. It was extremely helpful in planning our trip.<br />
<a href="https://gapcandobiketrip.wordpress.com/"><br /></a>
<a href="https://gapcandobiketrip.wordpress.com/">GAP/C&O Bike Trip Blog</a> - I read this blog over & over as well. Very helpful, especially on Day 5 when it rained. I remembered their post about Comfort Suites having a shuttle service from White's Ferry.<br />
<a href="https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/cumberlandvisitorcenter.htm"><br /></a>
<a href="https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/cumberlandvisitorcenter.htm">Cumberland Visitors Center</a> - Here we picked up a few pamphlets. Here are the ones I used most:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XF-MvkHeg4s/V9Qvo6pvMJI/AAAAAAAAElI/wrXQ1LiRMjkqQoRSQmi0iKiLHHiOVQmjgCLcB/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XF-MvkHeg4s/V9Qvo6pvMJI/AAAAAAAAElI/wrXQ1LiRMjkqQoRSQmi0iKiLHHiOVQmjgCLcB/s320/2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">This was used the most. How far to the next rest stop?</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--oZEuQ0C2l8/V9Qvo6Jq7cI/AAAAAAAAElE/1OZiGkU7PBE4fetm8QvR569zAI68ISDeQCLcB/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--oZEuQ0C2l8/V9Qvo6Jq7cI/AAAAAAAAElE/1OZiGkU7PBE4fetm8QvR569zAI68ISDeQCLcB/s320/3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was used the most. How far to the next rest stop?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vul_2tzwOo0/V9QvoBqpyMI/AAAAAAAAElA/hc5aS7UGXvshUkjCxMAWxqavdamxU2oqQCLcB/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vul_2tzwOo0/V9QvoBqpyMI/AAAAAAAAElA/hc5aS7UGXvshUkjCxMAWxqavdamxU2oqQCLcB/s320/4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Used this to help us find Mile 0</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ixe5eILKlWg/V9QvpR2ZMzI/AAAAAAAAElM/8kQFTwmMPkANHp53Qt0WMMqGTLNO2o-jQCLcB/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ixe5eILKlWg/V9QvpR2ZMzI/AAAAAAAAElM/8kQFTwmMPkANHp53Qt0WMMqGTLNO2o-jQCLcB/s320/6.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very handy guide to the towns along the trail</td></tr>
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<br />
I ordered this <a href="https://gaptrail.org/plan-a-visit/trailbook">book</a> about a month before we left. We didn't use it too much on the trail but we both read through it before leaving. It covers both the GAP & C&O.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DZQqCMnzsG0/V9QwiHW_JmI/AAAAAAAAElQ/HDpamhaS9jwyDBHYV8WZ5VGvtOWub91mACLcB/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DZQqCMnzsG0/V9QwiHW_JmI/AAAAAAAAElQ/HDpamhaS9jwyDBHYV8WZ5VGvtOWub91mACLcB/s320/5.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://gaptrail.org/plan-a-visit/trailbook">https://gaptrail.org/plan-a-visit/trailbook</a></td></tr>
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<br />
Lastly, I created a google sheet with links to all these websites, lodging along the way & other various information I thought would be helpful. I accessed this several times over the week. It was good to have everything in one file.<br />
<br />
I honestly can't think of anything I would change if I was to ride this trail again. I know Steve would say he would bring his real sleeping bag & not just a liner. Even though it was hot during the day you still needed a sleeping bag at night in the hammocks. Probably wouldn't have needed them if we had brought our tent instead. Steve says he would skip bringing his <a href="https://www.rei.com/product/882321/helinox-camp-chair">camp chair</a> next time. I personally like having the camp chair if we are going to camp.<br />
<br />
I am really glad we took the entire week to ride this trail. We never felt rushed to get to the next town. We had plenty of time to stop & take in the surroundings. For me there is no way we would have been able to ride this in 3 days. A lot of people do but it would not have been enjoyable. <br />
<br />
For our day to day rides on the C&O check out <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2016/09/c-canal-bike-trip.html">THIS</a> blog post.<br />
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Happy travels!<br />
<br />
<br />Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-67394638334409904882016-09-10T13:19:00.000-04:002016-09-10T19:38:49.171-04:00C&O Canal Bike Trip<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last year, Steve & I did our first <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2015/08/wild-wonderful-bike-camping.html">bike camp trip</a> in West Virginia. This year when <a href="http://www.bgcycling.net/">BCC</a> announced a <a href="https://www.gaptrail.org/">GAP & C&O</a> trip it piqued out interest. Only problem was that the original BCC plan was to ride all 335 miles in one week. I knew that was out of the question for me. 40'ish miles per day was going to be the most I could do based on last years <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2015/08/wild-wonderful-bike-camping.html">Greenbrier</a> experience.<br />
<br />
Our plan was to drive to Cumberland, MD, ride to Washington DC then take <a href="https://www.amtrak.com/capitol-limited-train">Amtrak</a> back to our car. We planned a rest day in Sharpsburg so we could tour <a href="https://www.nps.gov/anti/index.htm">Antietam</a>. This post will be on the day to day details. <br />
<br />
Refer to <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2016/09/c-canal-gear-tips-helpful-resources.html">THIS</a> post for info regarding the gear we brought, tips & resources we found helpful.<br />
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<b>Day 0 - Drive to Cumberland, MD</b><br />
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We left Lexington about 8AM and arrived in Cumberland at 2:30PM. We wanted to get there mid-afternoon to check out the visitors center, figure out where to leave our car & find the Amtrak station for our return from DC. We stayed at the Fairfield Inn in Cumberland, MD which backs up to the C&O trail. At check in I asked about long term parking & they let guests leave their car in their lot. Perfect!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All of this will be on our bikes!</td></tr>
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After rolling our bikes up to the room we walked to the Visitor center where we picked up a couple of maps. We then walked to the <a href="http://www.thecrabbypig.com/">Crabby Pig</a> for a late lunch. The restaurant is right at the terminus for the C&O and the GAP trail. Steve had fish & chips and I had a spinach salad with shrimp & Maryland crab cake. Both were really good.<br />
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After we ate, we walked to the <a href="https://www.amtrak.com/capitol-limited-train">Amtrak</a> station so we could get our bearings for our return from DC. Amtrak now has a <a href="https://www.amtrak.com/bring-your-bicycle-onboard">roll on bike service</a> on several rail lines. More on that later.<br />
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We went to bed pretty early but we were both too excited/nervous to get a good nights rest. <br />
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<b>Day 1 - Cumberland, MD to Indigo Neck Hiker/Biker Campsite</b><br />
<b><br /></b>Day 1 Mileage = <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1341206936">45.92 miles, 8.2 mph</a><br />
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We were up by 6AM. Showered, ate breakfast at the hotel & loaded our gear onto our bikes. We took pictures at the 'end' of the C&O canal trail before starting our ride about 8:30AM.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DC or Bust!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loaded up & ready to go</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Riding out of Cumberland, MD</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Riding out of Cumberland, MD</span></td></tr>
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Our plan for the first day was to get to Little Orleans, about 43 miles or so. It took a couple of miles to get used to handling the bike with all the weight but after that I was pretty settled in. The trail is an old tow path & pretty darn bumpy. Most of the time you really need to keep an eye out for rocks, roots & deep ruts in mud. There was plenty of tree cover which was good because it was hot the first few days of our trip. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the first locks we came to.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lockhouse</td></tr>
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There are very few towns right on the trail. Most are a few miles & hill climbs away. Normally hill climbing is no big deal but fully loaded with gear on your heavy hybrid bike with gravel tires, not so much fun. One of the cool sights of the day was <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paw_Paw_Tunnel">Paw Paw tunnel</a>. We walked our bikes through the tunnel. It is 3,118 feet long & gets very dark once inside. Headlights are a must.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Br33EkN1MPw/V89bL6WHBmI/AAAAAAAAEZE/tPI3xCNhVqkGNusn6GEOlBu6EYsKeOjUACLcB/s1600/IMG_3516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Br33EkN1MPw/V89bL6WHBmI/AAAAAAAAEZE/tPI3xCNhVqkGNusn6GEOlBu6EYsKeOjUACLcB/s320/IMG_3516.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aS6v6omYxD4/V89bLbTFjsI/AAAAAAAAEY8/J3Ijw3yE1RAW5JYhpcYKsUucTWj0Rm6PQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aS6v6omYxD4/V89bLbTFjsI/AAAAAAAAEY8/J3Ijw3yE1RAW5JYhpcYKsUucTWj0Rm6PQCLcB/s320/IMG_3518.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A5NTSdb-xtg/V89bNdwueDI/AAAAAAAAEZM/KKoUE70ulbk31mSx2XQGoccVaxMwnvaVgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A5NTSdb-xtg/V89bNdwueDI/AAAAAAAAEZM/KKoUE70ulbk31mSx2XQGoccVaxMwnvaVgCLcB/s320/IMG_3522.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After</td></tr>
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Since we didn't feel like exploring just how far the town of Paw Paw was we ate one of our <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Mountain-House-Lasagna-Sauce-Pro-Pak/dp/B000FXVBUK/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1473526289&sr=8-2&keywords=dehydrated+meals+for+backpacking">dehydrated meals</a> at Sorrel Ridge HB (MM154.1). This will end up being our only dehydrated meal of the entire trip. <br />
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After lunch we rode on to Little Orleans. We planned to stay at the Little Orleans campground. It isn't too far from the trail but does include some hills to get to the campground & main office. We decided the hills were something we did not want to do more than once. The campground look nice but decided to find an HB after dinner. <br />
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Dinner was at Bill's right off the trail in Little Orleans. We had burgers & beer before heading back on the trail. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vORkV7itaIU/V89dmATbt1I/AAAAAAAAEZY/1T5FP4jnFzgVlOk0PhddAoP9pnGtWXc5gCLcB/s1600/IMG_3532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vORkV7itaIU/V89dmATbt1I/AAAAAAAAEZY/1T5FP4jnFzgVlOk0PhddAoP9pnGtWXc5gCLcB/s320/IMG_3532.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill's</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T9siWzvV-hU/V89dmsBHPcI/AAAAAAAAEZc/PXyNTVk_IHsnrxNef6aoO0P9RpVbk9hSwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T9siWzvV-hU/V89dmsBHPcI/AAAAAAAAEZc/PXyNTVk_IHsnrxNef6aoO0P9RpVbk9hSwCLcB/s320/IMG_3533.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill's</td></tr>
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We settled on Indigo Neck HB (MM 139.2) for our first night camping. We decided to use hammocks instead of tents this trip. We were all set up by about 8PM & with so many mosquitos I opted for hanging out in the <a href="https://www.eaglesnestoutfittersinc.com/product/jh001.html">hammock</a>. We skipped the rain flies but both of us have bug netting. It was initially really warm but by 11PM I needed my sleeping bag. I think the low was around 68F. The hammock was so comfortable. I swear I slept better hanging from a tree than in my bed at home! No aches or pains in the morning either which is my complaint with tent camping. Steve left his sleeping bag at home & only had a couple of liners - he was sorry. It was a bit cold for him in the wee hours of the night. Lesson learned!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-smwyMGcz4GE/V89fwESPzmI/AAAAAAAAEZw/-1cBBWfv4JQc0mzZJPjjE-Rw-w10yZUiQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3879.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-smwyMGcz4GE/V89fwESPzmI/AAAAAAAAEZw/-1cBBWfv4JQc0mzZJPjjE-Rw-w10yZUiQCLcB/s320/IMG_3879.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Indigo Neck HB </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Sm4lSMek1o/V89fwcrj-dI/AAAAAAAAEZo/H28Af4edl8QC3_rovA0iRTPHnLKr70e3QCLcB/s1600/IMG_3880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Sm4lSMek1o/V89fwcrj-dI/AAAAAAAAEZo/H28Af4edl8QC3_rovA0iRTPHnLKr70e3QCLcB/s320/IMG_3880.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Indigo Neck HB</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5yewx9btHEM/V89fwXGNx8I/AAAAAAAAEZs/_jwZuj5yXhUmd3Zv5unf2RzCU8oULcb9ACLcB/s1600/IMG_3881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5yewx9btHEM/V89fwXGNx8I/AAAAAAAAEZs/_jwZuj5yXhUmd3Zv5unf2RzCU8oULcb9ACLcB/s320/IMG_3881.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What the trail looked like most of the time</td></tr>
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<br />
<b>Day 2 - Indigo Neck Hiker/Biker Campsite to Opequon Junction HB</b><br />
<br />
Day 2 Mileage = <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1341206981">50.25 miles, 9.1 mph (20 miles on the asphalt WMRT)</a><br />
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We were up at sunrise. We made oatmeal & coffee for breakfast before packing up our gear. By 8:45 we were riding. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gYoz9CS6T0w/V89gRri7YxI/AAAAAAAAEaE/wWe9-zErY_QRHdd9ziH5msfS4rAQFUI3wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gYoz9CS6T0w/V89gRri7YxI/AAAAAAAAEaE/wWe9-zErY_QRHdd9ziH5msfS4rAQFUI3wCLcB/s320/IMG_3551.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start of Day 2</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Or3PmL2XDpM/V89gQ6M0oqI/AAAAAAAAEZ8/s4hfKqz17l0PgbtR3yqedSH_Gy8zheyOACLcB/s1600/IMG_3553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Or3PmL2XDpM/V89gQ6M0oqI/AAAAAAAAEZ8/s4hfKqz17l0PgbtR3yqedSH_Gy8zheyOACLcB/s320/IMG_3553.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Start of Day 2</span></td></tr>
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3 miles into our day we hit the <a href="http://www.westernmarylandrailtrail.org/WMRT/">Western Maryland Rail Trail</a>...HELLO ASPHALT!! The WMRT runs parallel to the C&O for about 20 miles. You don't realize how much you miss asphalt until you ride about 50 miles on a bumpy gravel/dirt trail. <br />
<br />
We stopped in Hancock for a late breakfast / early lunch. This is one of 3 towns that is right on the trail - no hill climbing required. The other two are Cumberland & Frederick, MD. We stopped into this bike shop to guzzle down some gatorade. It was hot & the water on the trail tastes like iodine because that is what it is treated with. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUePyhpRWjU/V89iN9W1ZaI/AAAAAAAAEaU/LB8PyLtXAO0Q6KhUb4l7BX8H2bGppVCZwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3890.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUePyhpRWjU/V89iN9W1ZaI/AAAAAAAAEaU/LB8PyLtXAO0Q6KhUb4l7BX8H2bGppVCZwCLcB/s320/IMG_3890.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bike shop right off trail in Hancock, MD</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2e517sY_-xg/V89iMVPuqfI/AAAAAAAAEaQ/5nb4MbONHCUdP_x8_J_Iz_r5AFcWxZDOACLcB/s1600/IMG_3892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2e517sY_-xg/V89iMVPuqfI/AAAAAAAAEaQ/5nb4MbONHCUdP_x8_J_Iz_r5AFcWxZDOACLcB/s320/IMG_3892.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">About 0.5 from trail in Hancock, MD. Great breakfast & cookies</td></tr>
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We ate another breakfast at Weaver's & took cookies to go. We were back on the trail by noon. We stopped along the way to take in the sights. So much history along this trail.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V7qaB7MqJ9s/V89lHA_dEEI/AAAAAAAAEak/btT9gm7oa88NX8kpS-Jx9hgkCGViYfT-QCLcB/s1600/IMG_3556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V7qaB7MqJ9s/V89lHA_dEEI/AAAAAAAAEak/btT9gm7oa88NX8kpS-Jx9hgkCGViYfT-QCLcB/s320/IMG_3556.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 2 Sights Along Trail</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1gIn0cVdutM/V89lFNZAzyI/AAAAAAAAEag/MLpea0JIH9slet09Y4En3MAiqS5Oh6X0ACLcB/s1600/IMG_3558.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1gIn0cVdutM/V89lFNZAzyI/AAAAAAAAEag/MLpea0JIH9slet09Y4En3MAiqS5Oh6X0ACLcB/s320/IMG_3558.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Day 2 Sights Along Trail</span> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X1uxYx6JWVg/V89lH4oZFZI/AAAAAAAAEao/ERRhRZxS7c8F_3_6cbrLwbs1TCndt8BBACLcB/s1600/IMG_3562.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X1uxYx6JWVg/V89lH4oZFZI/AAAAAAAAEao/ERRhRZxS7c8F_3_6cbrLwbs1TCndt8BBACLcB/s320/IMG_3562.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Day 2 Sights Along Trail</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qgiluxYVq2E/V89lIVvWKGI/AAAAAAAAEas/EVxIKaknVSITPJzYeoDYQDcvVD33zB-UwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3565.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qgiluxYVq2E/V89lIVvWKGI/AAAAAAAAEas/EVxIKaknVSITPJzYeoDYQDcvVD33zB-UwCLcB/s320/IMG_3565.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Day 2 Sights Along Trail</span> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZE3NvokRogI/V89lI8MXT8I/AAAAAAAAEaw/afOiZTFkUCAtKoG11PlskCTwnQkbjPJBACLcB/s1600/IMG_3566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZE3NvokRogI/V89lI8MXT8I/AAAAAAAAEaw/afOiZTFkUCAtKoG11PlskCTwnQkbjPJBACLcB/s320/IMG_3566.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Day 2 Sights Along Trail</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IpNwdtsbJak/V89l54gRzTI/AAAAAAAAEa0/ip7IaAFoz0IUkbvQtNEga6K527bgpTeygCEw/s1600/IMG_3897.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IpNwdtsbJak/V89l54gRzTI/AAAAAAAAEa0/ip7IaAFoz0IUkbvQtNEga6K527bgpTeygCEw/s320/IMG_3897.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Day 2 Sights Along Trail</span> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bgo6fFDW0rI/V89l7JfKjtI/AAAAAAAAEbA/PkFrFZv1tdQrmDhvvJnaUieyEUybck9-wCEw/s1600/IMG_3900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bgo6fFDW0rI/V89l7JfKjtI/AAAAAAAAEbA/PkFrFZv1tdQrmDhvvJnaUieyEUybck9-wCEw/s320/IMG_3900.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Day 2 Sights Along Trail</span></td></tr>
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We did make a cooling off stop at a HB mid afternoon. We used a pump to wet our heads & wash off. It felt amazing!<br />
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By late afternoon we rode on to Williamsburg where we climbed the hill to Main Street not once but twice. Steve thought I was going the wrong way so we turned around & took the bridge over to West Virginia. He then realized we were going the right way so we headed back. We stopped in a sweet shop for some more gatorade & then headed to Tony's Pizza for dinner. Everywhere we stopped for food or drinks offered to fill our water bottles without asking. We were very appreciative because it was another 90F degree day.<br />
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After splitting a pepperoni pizza we were back on the trail to find a HB. The first one we came across was occupied but the next one was perfectly vacant right on the river. We stayed at Obequon Junction HB (MM 90.9) The water pump didn't work but we washed off in the river. We were setup by sunset & I tried to stay up later reading but got a million mosquito bites so jumped into the hammock. Even though the day was hot the humidity was lower so it felt great. I slept great but Steve was pretty cold again. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yi9uyydSepU/V89npmQFOqI/AAAAAAAAEbI/BXQixQbMwRshPeFl-NyZo4nt_TPQafxBwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yi9uyydSepU/V89npmQFOqI/AAAAAAAAEbI/BXQixQbMwRshPeFl-NyZo4nt_TPQafxBwCLcB/s320/IMG_3579.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Obequon Junction HB (MM 90.9)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JGg82bWGFeY/V89npjFFMHI/AAAAAAAAEbM/Ux0aCBBHD5c_E9LyHv2tkGwfhhYgyxUcwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JGg82bWGFeY/V89npjFFMHI/AAAAAAAAEbM/Ux0aCBBHD5c_E9LyHv2tkGwfhhYgyxUcwCLcB/s320/IMG_3580.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Obequon Junction HB (MM 90.9)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ll_NuCsIXxY/V89oGjUyf9I/AAAAAAAAEbc/dYtQkE66grYc3AGyGo1EmQCY-IvOy1c1wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ll_NuCsIXxY/V89oGjUyf9I/AAAAAAAAEbc/dYtQkE66grYc3AGyGo1EmQCY-IvOy1c1wCLcB/s320/IMG_3910.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Obequon Junction HB (MM 90.9)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C8ovGqTD8JE/V89oGia8xAI/AAAAAAAAEbY/IwhVw_CukLMasPL3dJE_ymoauTjvBD8FwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C8ovGqTD8JE/V89oGia8xAI/AAAAAAAAEbY/IwhVw_CukLMasPL3dJE_ymoauTjvBD8FwCLcB/s320/IMG_3913.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Obequon Junction HB (MM 90.9)</span></td></tr>
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<b>Day 3 - Opequon Junction HB to Inn at Antietam</b><br />
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Day 3 Mileage = <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1341207026">16.31 miles, 7.9 mph</a><br />
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We were up at sunrise again. We made coffee but it tasted terrible thanks to the iodine treated water. We ate cookies for breakfast - those tasted fantastic! I baked in a short day & a rest day since I wasn't sure how riding 45-50 miles everyday was going to be received. Our butts thanked us. Those were a long 13 miles on the trail followed by some nice hills climbs in the baking sun to Sharpsburg. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8OqwMRis3-w/V9IKTc8BdEI/AAAAAAAAEbw/-7u5XMQk7jQZ9Q05-ziCufCJAwnDAwCuwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3588.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8OqwMRis3-w/V9IKTc8BdEI/AAAAAAAAEbw/-7u5XMQk7jQZ9Q05-ziCufCJAwnDAwCuwCLcB/s320/IMG_3588.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Mill Along the Trail</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XRhZd9270Xg/V9IKj-CRZ9I/AAAAAAAAEb0/FohExHu6NyUajMY8rf-LLVZ0l1FW4spRACLcB/s1600/IMG_3919.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XRhZd9270Xg/V9IKj-CRZ9I/AAAAAAAAEb0/FohExHu6NyUajMY8rf-LLVZ0l1FW4spRACLcB/s320/IMG_3919.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aah, concrete!</td></tr>
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We got to town by noon & stopped at the Battlefield Market for lunch & gatorade. I texted Miriam at the B&B & asked what time we could come by. She said anytime which was great because we were in desperate need of a shower!<br />
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We stayed at the <a href="http://innatantietam.com/">Inn at Antietam</a>. Since it was mid-week we had our pick of the rooms. They offered us their hose to wash off our bikes. Everything was covered in a layer of dust! Once we got our bikes & bags washed down we took our turn. They didn't make us use the garden hose but I wouldn't have blamed them! When you don't have access to facilities for a couple of days you really appreciate them. The shower was fantastic! We also did a load of laundry. No one likes reusing bike shorts.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7s_He_vd7Ls/V9IPs1G1zFI/AAAAAAAAEcI/L7344KYQSdERBw0uO1xQt4k9lUG8fvgnwCEw/s1600/IMG_3935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7s_He_vd7Ls/V9IPs1G1zFI/AAAAAAAAEcI/L7344KYQSdERBw0uO1xQt4k9lUG8fvgnwCEw/s320/IMG_3935.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inn at Antietam - Highly Recommend!</td></tr>
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The B&B was next to the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/anti/learn/historyculture/antietam-national-cemetery.htm">Antietam National Cemetery</a>. After doing the laundry we walked over to check it out. It was overwhelming. If you are like me & didn't pay much attention in US History - <a href="https://www.nps.gov/anti/index.htm">Antietam</a> is the bloodiest day in battle in US history. 23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded or missing in 12 hours. It is mind boggling when you really think about this. We planned to head to the Visitors Center the next day & ride our bikes around the park to learn more.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2MvDGfZI2jk/V9IPs2yIiWI/AAAAAAAAEcE/7i_z-fyvDXEM1Unw6KRpISsstbdbmdvwACEw/s1600/IMG_3933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2MvDGfZI2jk/V9IPs2yIiWI/AAAAAAAAEcE/7i_z-fyvDXEM1Unw6KRpISsstbdbmdvwACEw/s320/IMG_3933.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Only Union Soldiers are Buried Here</td></tr>
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We ate at Captain Benders Tavern. Steve had the fish & chips & I had the spinach salad with shrimp. We split an order of pickle fries. The servings were huge & the food was really good. After dinner we walked around town. We were surprised at how much traffic there was for such a small town. We later found out it is a cut through to get from I-81 to I-70. On Miriam & Will's recommendation we stopped at Nutter's Ice Cream. The servings were huge & 2 scoops of ice cream was only $2.75. I thought it was a mistake. The ice cream was awesome!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nq0pnT5CRsM/V9IPuKKBilI/AAAAAAAAEcU/JcNW9yrrOscDlATyM_CqV75fIYL3_aFMACLcB/s1600/IMG_3938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nq0pnT5CRsM/V9IPuKKBilI/AAAAAAAAEcU/JcNW9yrrOscDlATyM_CqV75fIYL3_aFMACLcB/s320/IMG_3938.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are confederate flags everywhere</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M3hci3OEQOU/V9IPulT2rUI/AAAAAAAAEcY/g4P7Jh6r6MwzO2XJ70XoUjMQk0_o5coLACLcB/s1600/IMG_3939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M3hci3OEQOU/V9IPulT2rUI/AAAAAAAAEcY/g4P7Jh6r6MwzO2XJ70XoUjMQk0_o5coLACLcB/s320/IMG_3939.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nutter's Ice Cream!</td></tr>
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<b>Day 4 - Inn at Antietam</b><br />
<b><br /></b>Day 4 Mileage = <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1341207051">10.02 miles, 8.6 mph</a><br />
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Today was our planned rest day. We started our day with breakfast at the Inn. We had eggs, bacon & potatoes. Miriam also makes the best breads. Both days a fresh loaf still warm from the oven was waiting for us. The coffee was fantastic as well. All local. Everything was yummy.<br />
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After our leisurely breakfast we got ready to ride to the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/anti/index.htm">Antietam Visitor Center</a>. We spent about an hour & a half there. There was a ~30 minute video that summarized the battle. There were also a museum with artifacts from the battle. So much information. <br />
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After we toured the facility we headed back out on our bikes to ride the car tour loop. There were so many memorials along the way & plaques explaining how the battle started & proceeded throughout the day. The loop was 10 miles but took us at least 2 hours with all the stops along the way. There was so much to take in. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The landscape is virtually the same today as it was in 1862.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ep1EoVJHjmc/V9NMZ9z2W9I/AAAAAAAAEdM/5VrpBlbk3bA8l9I6LbhXKyyCArUnIGSRwCEw/s1600/IMG_3955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ep1EoVJHjmc/V9NMZ9z2W9I/AAAAAAAAEdM/5VrpBlbk3bA8l9I6LbhXKyyCArUnIGSRwCEw/s320/IMG_3955.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's hard to imagine 20,000 soldiers were killed, injured or went missing here in 1 day </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunken Road aka Bloody Lane </td></tr>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qtf8rTx2Z0I/V9NMbUHtJ-I/AAAAAAAAEdI/n2ZmEPiKwE4s-UeoANTXawOm4ks2oFw4wCEw/s1600/IMG_3960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qtf8rTx2Z0I/V9NMbUHtJ-I/AAAAAAAAEdI/n2ZmEPiKwE4s-UeoANTXawOm4ks2oFw4wCEw/s320/IMG_3960.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from the Tower</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yKzwRgId42g/V9NORNzyl1I/AAAAAAAAEds/ncQMUQWsNOoMmJaU_2__QXtsYVUj9pDZQCPcB/s1600/IMG_3619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yKzwRgId42g/V9NORNzyl1I/AAAAAAAAEds/ncQMUQWsNOoMmJaU_2__QXtsYVUj9pDZQCPcB/s320/IMG_3619.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the many plaques that explained the attacks </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some showed the casualties as well</td></tr>
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We headed back to the B&B early afternoon. I needed to spend some time getting our DC plans in place. Our original plan was to go back to Cumberland on Saturday. I didn't want to book the train before I was confident we would be able to make it to DC. I spent at least an hour getting everything reserved. Item to note - book Amtrak in advance if you plan to bring your bike. The trains were fully booked Thursday, Friday & Saturday. Thankfully they still had reservations for Sunday. Once the train was booked I made DC hotel reservations & changed our Cumberland hotel reservations. <br />
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Once that was all set Miriam drove us over to Shepherdstown, WV so we could have dinner & explore the downtown area. It is about 3 miles from Sharpsburg. We ate dinner at the Blue Moon Cafe. Fantastic outdoor patio that has a creek running through it. Steve got the reuben & I had a baked brie & apple plate. After walking around a bit we headed back to the B&B.<br />
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If you are going to stay in the area, Sherperdstown has a lot more going on but Sharpsburg was nice since it was so close to the Battlefield. Not to mention the B&B was fantastic. The owners of the Inn at Antietam were so generous letting us wash our bikes, do laundry, washed our water bottles in their dishwasher to get the iodine stink out and dropped us off & picked us up in Sherperdstown.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S0byPCdr3UQ/V9NTAkAFxrI/AAAAAAAAEeo/6wm9qwhJeXcdpw8f94d76uJeg6TyvfKDQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S0byPCdr3UQ/V9NTAkAFxrI/AAAAAAAAEeo/6wm9qwhJeXcdpw8f94d76uJeg6TyvfKDQCLcB/s320/IMG_3677.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Moon Cafe Patio</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8vZxDEY7Cs/V9NTBYhrYkI/AAAAAAAAEes/dFaJEmaQiTQxIpG_Gnmm8HXPwvHWndGbQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_8vZxDEY7Cs/V9NTBYhrYkI/AAAAAAAAEes/dFaJEmaQiTQxIpG_Gnmm8HXPwvHWndGbQCLcB/s320/IMG_3680.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sheperdstown, WV</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LeVivUydWoQ/V9NTAYDuJjI/AAAAAAAAEek/XFQmsZZYaMcMiud-dkqQ5Y_b16KEhz0ewCEw/s1600/IMG_3675.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LeVivUydWoQ/V9NTAYDuJjI/AAAAAAAAEek/XFQmsZZYaMcMiud-dkqQ5Y_b16KEhz0ewCEw/s320/IMG_3675.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiny House, <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Sheperdstown, WV</span></td></tr>
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<b>Day 5 - Inn at Antietam to Comfort Suites, Leesburg, VA</b><br />
<b><br /></b>Day 5 Mileage = <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1341207091">46.59 miles, 8.0 mph</a><br />
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We woke up to rain on Thursday so we figured we would have a later start on the trail. We had another yummy breakfast before we packed up. Miriam sent us off with 2 homemade scones which we ate along the trail. The rain stopped by about 8:30 & we were on the road by 9:30. I was nervous because the roads were still wet & it was mostly downhill to the trail. Everything turned out fine. We made it to the trail with no issues.<br />
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Our goal for the day was to get to Leesburg. We thought our butts were fine since we had no issues the day before but as soon as we got back on the bumpity bump bump trail we knew it was going to be another long, slow day of riding. Holy shit, that trail is rough and I really don't think there is anyway to train for it, other than riding 5 hours a day on that type of trail. Who's got time for that?<br />
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Anyhoo, we decided we were going to Brunswick for our lunch break & skip Harpers Ferry due to the complexity of leaving your bikes on the trail & walking over the bridge to WV. It is supposed to be a fantastic town but I wasn't comfortable leaving everything so far out of sight. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FpZOvcegcjo/V9NafgpXZLI/AAAAAAAAEfE/ytrsxhvdK2YuNbY0QC4FA50Ft0-yJnq4ACLcB/s1600/IMG_3691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FpZOvcegcjo/V9NafgpXZLI/AAAAAAAAEfE/ytrsxhvdK2YuNbY0QC4FA50Ft0-yJnq4ACLcB/s320/IMG_3691.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see the bike racks & that is the bridge you cross over</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8jksJs-SXuw/V9NafR5vmAI/AAAAAAAAEfA/5vu0HHyqDqMlIxvQgqFpjVsiW1CfvHN0QCLcB/s1600/IMG_3966.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8jksJs-SXuw/V9NafR5vmAI/AAAAAAAAEfA/5vu0HHyqDqMlIxvQgqFpjVsiW1CfvHN0QCLcB/s320/IMG_3966.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cool old tunnel</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IUhAMYldG9Y/V9Na8buuz-I/AAAAAAAAEfI/pRmbApRdSQEnRlIFYZRHRy1-DYkynoTogCLcB/s1600/IMG_3694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IUhAMYldG9Y/V9Na8buuz-I/AAAAAAAAEfI/pRmbApRdSQEnRlIFYZRHRy1-DYkynoTogCLcB/s320/IMG_3694.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trail was a bit muddy from the rain</td></tr>
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It took us about 3.5 hours to get to Brunswick. This is one of the few towns that is right off the trail. No long hill climbing required. We tried to eat at Beans in the Belfry but they were doing some drilling work on the inside that was so loud they ran everyone off. Instead, we ate at the Potomac Street Grill. We split a Cuban & a Reuben sandwich, both were decent. After about an hour or so we were back on the trail.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qsq7YiKFTCg/V9Nb9aZn08I/AAAAAAAAEfQ/l0e24tWCqtYtOvaFhGGLxesAQnjzAiCHQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3969.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qsq7YiKFTCg/V9Nb9aZn08I/AAAAAAAAEfQ/l0e24tWCqtYtOvaFhGGLxesAQnjzAiCHQCLcB/s320/IMG_3969.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brunswick, MD</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QT6pdxQHd_g/V9Nb9estNOI/AAAAAAAAEfU/biZgnGFb810CGUga5t-wJVPMknMLtbUxQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QT6pdxQHd_g/V9Nb9estNOI/AAAAAAAAEfU/biZgnGFb810CGUga5t-wJVPMknMLtbUxQCLcB/s320/IMG_3971.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Brunswick, MD</span></td></tr>
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Back on the trail we came across a cool restored aqueduct. So many neat things you would never see unless you travel this trail. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old stone on the left, new stone on the right</td></tr>
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About 1 mile before we reached the last HB campsite prior to reaching White's Ferry it started to rain & not a light rain. It poured. We were very lucky since this was the first time we got wet. We just rode through it. When we got to the HB there was already someone set up. We chatted with him for a few minutes & learned he was on day 1 of his travels. He was doing a bucket list item - riding from Hagerstown, MD to Key West. He had been planning it for years & finally was able to do it. Pretty damn awesome!<br />
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We rode on to the next HB which was about 1 mile past White's Ferry. There was no one set up there but there really wasn't good trees to hang our hammocks up close to one another. We were soaking wet & we knew it was going to be chilly that night. We decided to call Comfort Suites to see if they had any rooms & would pick us up at the ferry. We were in luck! We rode back to the Ferry & waited for the shuttle to pick us up. It took them about 25 minutes to get there with traffic. When we were waiting for the driver to arrive it started raining again. At that point we knew we made the right decision. The drive with no traffic was about 10 minutes but there was no way in hell I would ride that on my bike due to traffic. We got to the hotel about 7pm. The hotel had a bike wash which was smart for them because our bikes were covered in mud! We washed everything off & then rolled our gear up to the room. After showers we walked across the street for dinner at Del Rio Mexican restaurant.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whites Ferry Store & Grill - There have been some bigs floods over the years</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yay, we are wet & on a ferry heading to a hotel</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XPtcqVdQiUo/V9Ng7JzBnTI/AAAAAAAAEg4/c0t0A-hNCykfgTXGiz47lDqvkqhfrBqCACLcB/s1600/IMG_3705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XPtcqVdQiUo/V9Ng7JzBnTI/AAAAAAAAEg4/c0t0A-hNCykfgTXGiz47lDqvkqhfrBqCACLcB/s320/IMG_3705.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our bikes - $2 each to ride the ferry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dUu_z80YnB4/V9Ng67ICRWI/AAAAAAAAEg0/I7yOdG8yP7oQNQ7F8TtszJwRhmbOrZBMACLcB/s1600/IMG_3706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dUu_z80YnB4/V9Ng67ICRWI/AAAAAAAAEg0/I7yOdG8yP7oQNQ7F8TtszJwRhmbOrZBMACLcB/s320/IMG_3706.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It takes maybe 5 minutes to get across</td></tr>
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<b>Day 6 - Comfort Suites, Leesburg, VA to Washington, DC</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Day 6 Mileage = <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1341207140">40.13 miles, 8.0 mph</a><br />
<br />
We reserved the shuttle for 8AM. We were up about 6:30 again. We didn't sleep in at all on this vacation. It was hard to sleep in when you are sleeping in a hammock, staying at a B&B that starts cooking delicious smelling food at 7AM & knowing you have to catch a shuttle in the morning.<br />
<br />
We ate breakfast at the hotel. We had everything loaded up and downstairs by 8AM. We were at the shuttle by about 8:15 & across the river on the trail by 8:40AM.<br />
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We were about 35 miles from DC and you could tell by the amount of foot traffic on the trail. Up until this point we saw very little people on the trail. We saw only a few cyclists & walkers/runners each day. We saw maybe 5 through cyclists total over the week. The transition back into civilization can be difficult sometimes. <br />
<br />
The trail was absolutely beautiful in this area. The locks were full with water in this area. The Potomac was nearing Great Falls which is absolutely gorgeous. We stopped at Great Falls to eat our scones from the B&B. Then we locked up our bikes & explored the Great Falls boardwalk. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nk__OFDv0q0/V9NlCl0eHMI/AAAAAAAAEhQ/1DoHwX6RTdARuumwezpGgmfUeCXNLH3egCLcB/s1600/IMG_3718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nk__OFDv0q0/V9NlCl0eHMI/AAAAAAAAEhQ/1DoHwX6RTdARuumwezpGgmfUeCXNLH3egCLcB/s320/IMG_3718.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lock full of water</td></tr>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0KDVfJi_Oro/V9NlCMbmWNI/AAAAAAAAEhI/exQroBqru34_N0pvBtuhpNCY_f27KpTowCLcB/s1600/IMG_3980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0KDVfJi_Oro/V9NlCMbmWNI/AAAAAAAAEhI/exQroBqru34_N0pvBtuhpNCY_f27KpTowCLcB/s320/IMG_3980.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--fIAQt-o0Vs/V9NlDtzMXnI/AAAAAAAAEhU/BGuUxnED9b8Tm_IFPtF4nq8hGx489LK3gCLcB/s1600/IMG_3982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--fIAQt-o0Vs/V9NlDtzMXnI/AAAAAAAAEhU/BGuUxnED9b8Tm_IFPtF4nq8hGx489LK3gCLcB/s320/IMG_3982.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Working Lock</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-grWqTf4Tr_Q/V9NlEWQE9NI/AAAAAAAAEhY/KUld2gSJxoQIesN2f0USEavtX0zOW3MNACLcB/s1600/IMG_3983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-grWqTf4Tr_Q/V9NlEWQE9NI/AAAAAAAAEhY/KUld2gSJxoQIesN2f0USEavtX0zOW3MNACLcB/s320/IMG_3983.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trail had mile markers every mile</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iCGaKRj2Pzw/V9Nl0UAh3xI/AAAAAAAAEhg/YNpbO41RaTQV9V49rjVuAG10IvAWsRNMQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iCGaKRj2Pzw/V9Nl0UAh3xI/AAAAAAAAEhg/YNpbO41RaTQV9V49rjVuAG10IvAWsRNMQCLcB/s320/IMG_3738.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great Falls</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hykdsx3woqw/V9Nl0sEl-LI/AAAAAAAAEhk/4x6v1hZjSlwcs0hZEyEtg28MuCpHXo2zwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hykdsx3woqw/V9Nl0sEl-LI/AAAAAAAAEhk/4x6v1hZjSlwcs0hZEyEtg28MuCpHXo2zwCLcB/s320/IMG_3739.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Great Falls</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t52VoPt2cl0/V9Nl3lLGE3I/AAAAAAAAEhs/wh6olN39VTMg_Ae2Zfn7xIgRWL1HlSyhgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t52VoPt2cl0/V9Nl3lLGE3I/AAAAAAAAEhs/wh6olN39VTMg_Ae2Zfn7xIgRWL1HlSyhgCLcB/s320/IMG_3750.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Great Falls</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nA8IwUgv4fY/V9Nl7C4Bi-I/AAAAAAAAEh8/PDH9djSQLpk8u5c2yuJUKz2yOEz4gYCfgCEw/s1600/IMG_3986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nA8IwUgv4fY/V9Nl7C4Bi-I/AAAAAAAAEh8/PDH9djSQLpk8u5c2yuJUKz2yOEz4gYCfgCEw/s320/IMG_3986.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center</td></tr>
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After taking in the Great Falls we started the last part of our journey into DC. The trail was clearly marked until around Mile 1. In Georgetown, you have to be on the lookout for a sign that crosses over the canal. It is extremely narrow in this section & crosses several streets. We passed locks 4 through 1 in this area. I walked my bike through a good portion of this area because it crossed several streets & there were a lot of pedestrians. The C&O dead ends at the Rock Creek Trail which runs next to Rock Creek & Potomac Parkway. You follow the Rock Creek Trail to Thompson Boat House. You ride past the boat house & you will see the most beautiful site - the C&O 0 Mile marker! We had arrived!!!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NZTwHJ8qLf4/V9NqTuyP9jI/AAAAAAAAEiI/fZ8wE9VWgnsUboq1ZEoFE8A_mf4D2RS-ACEw/s1600/IMG_3777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NZTwHJ8qLf4/V9NqTuyP9jI/AAAAAAAAEiI/fZ8wE9VWgnsUboq1ZEoFE8A_mf4D2RS-ACEw/s320/IMG_3777.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mile Marker 0</td></tr>
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After taking a few pictures we made our way to the hotel. It was Friday mid-afternoon of Labor Day weekend. Steve loved the fact that we were riding into DC with all of our gear during rush hour. Me not so much. I mean, it was totally cool but nerve wracking navigating traffic, directions, etc. It was super cool when we rode around a curve & saw this:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QHhRdP_Cu6c/V9NrGGQMfaI/AAAAAAAAEiQ/liWKr4yGmyYIhlf1cewrTU8XJ4ArM3k8ACLcB/s1600/IMG_3781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QHhRdP_Cu6c/V9NrGGQMfaI/AAAAAAAAEiQ/liWKr4yGmyYIhlf1cewrTU8XJ4ArM3k8ACLcB/s320/IMG_3781.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We rode our bikes 184 miles & now we are riding into DC!</td></tr>
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We stayed at the Fairfield Inn in Chinatown. It had available rooms for both Friday & Saturday plus it was near Amtrak. Surprisingly, the rate was less than the B&B we stayed at. I was shocked. We checked into our hotel, showered & headed out for our just rewards:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZIiDCeGEWg8/V9Nrv0tAZuI/AAAAAAAAEiU/YdyOMUQ3xoMzqHNwUkPHiCk9VqFlhtNrQCLcB/s1600/IMG_4010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZIiDCeGEWg8/V9Nrv0tAZuI/AAAAAAAAEiU/YdyOMUQ3xoMzqHNwUkPHiCk9VqFlhtNrQCLcB/s320/IMG_4010.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Capital City Brewing</td></tr>
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After dinner we walked the town. If felt good to be upright. We took in some of the sights:<br />
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We were in bed ridiculously early but it had been a long week plus we had all day Saturday to explore.<br />
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<b>Day 7 - Washington, DC</b><br />
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Day 7 Mileage = <a href="https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/1341207173">8.99 miles, 7.3 mph</a><br />
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Saturday is Steve's run day & he had 9 miles on his schedule. I rode along with him as he ran. It was a pretty cool way to see DC. There were very few people out that early, mostly runners, cyclists and a few sightseers.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Saturday Running/Bike Tour</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lincoln</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Outer Edge of Hurricane Clouds - No rain for us, only some winds</td></tr>
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Afterwards we grabbed breakfast at the hotel. We got cleaned up & headed for the <a href="https://airandspace.si.edu/">Smithsonian Air & Space Museum.</a> I really wanted to see the <a href="https://airandspace.si.edu/explore-and-learn/topics/discovery/">Space Shuttle Discover</a>y but it was in Chantilly, VA which was difficult to get to without vehicles. Next trip! We saw <a href="http://www.si.edu/Imax/Movie/132">D-Day Normandy</a> at the IMAX. There are so many museums, exhibits & memorials to see while in DC it is really hard to decide which ones to go to. Love, love DC!<br />
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We ate Thai for lunch near the hotel & then took an afternoon nap. We booked the DC City Lights Tour. Figured that would keep us up late for once & get to see a lot of the city at night. <br />
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The bus picked us up at the hotel about 7:15. The tour was about 3 hours & stopped at 9 different sights. The actual time was closer to 5 hours since the bus picked up / dropped off at several hotels. That was a bit of a pain since we didn't get back to our hotel until almost midnight.<br />
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DC is beautiful at night. If I was to do it again, I would have purchased one of the hop on / hop off bus tours that included a twilight tour. It would have been more flexible & given us time to explore the sights more. This tour was good if you only have a few hours & want to maximize your visit. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wdAhH3v--Hk/V9P4ACCJOxI/AAAAAAAAEjk/PgiJ5vsou5UmAwJoptV9cFTHYrt1pmmLgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3858%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wdAhH3v--Hk/V9P4ACCJOxI/AAAAAAAAEjk/PgiJ5vsou5UmAwJoptV9cFTHYrt1pmmLgCLcB/s320/IMG_3858%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Washington Monument at Dusk</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">US Capitol</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1zLeRB65bc/V9P4AmWpkyI/AAAAAAAAEjo/UVfP03Gjaw4KCeltJwYoMV8cneTbGOG5wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3867%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y1zLeRB65bc/V9P4AmWpkyI/AAAAAAAAEjo/UVfP03Gjaw4KCeltJwYoMV8cneTbGOG5wCLcB/s320/IMG_3867%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White House</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pOToAo1O-i4/V9P4BObkNOI/AAAAAAAAEjs/O9PSbXG_4yANoDFsgtg0H3Kii1uR5ndmQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3885%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pOToAo1O-i4/V9P4BObkNOI/AAAAAAAAEjs/O9PSbXG_4yANoDFsgtg0H3Kii1uR5ndmQCLcB/s320/IMG_3885%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Martin Luther King Memorial</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RyUkPZH72qo/V9P4BuHbSbI/AAAAAAAAEj0/2_HL6Rnh75oEPDjJU_iPxw-OH41t8Lf2wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3894%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RyUkPZH72qo/V9P4BuHbSbI/AAAAAAAAEj0/2_HL6Rnh75oEPDjJU_iPxw-OH41t8Lf2wCLcB/s320/IMG_3894%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lincoln Memorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9l46mqbJm0M/V9P4CC8KFfI/AAAAAAAAEj8/CBYwnXO2TmoAIONhJZ8jgia6XSVUo6kAgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3911%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9l46mqbJm0M/V9P4CC8KFfI/AAAAAAAAEj8/CBYwnXO2TmoAIONhJZ8jgia6XSVUo6kAgCLcB/s320/IMG_3911%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marin Corps War Memorial - aka Iwo Jima Flag Raisers</td></tr>
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<b>Day 8 - Washington, DC to Cumberland, MD</b><br />
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After breakfast at the hotel we walked down to the Amtrak station to scope things out for our train ride back to Cumberland. It seemed super easy to get to from our hotel & into the station. No stairs/elevators needed to get to gate. Outside the station, we saw one of the oddest sights. Let's just say someone must have had a wild & crazy night but was bumming in the morning!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-crPpbYc5yxM/V9P7hIPvwrI/AAAAAAAAEkI/IQcUxXYfuZ0-fYOb8LxuN3d_EYOwXyPUgCLcB/s1600/14212707_10154012535306925_965379430560877262_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-crPpbYc5yxM/V9P7hIPvwrI/AAAAAAAAEkI/IQcUxXYfuZ0-fYOb8LxuN3d_EYOwXyPUgCLcB/s320/14212707_10154012535306925_965379430560877262_n.jpg" width="204" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As Steve said on FB, Can you find the hidden gem?</td></tr>
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We entered the Amtrak station at the far left entrance in this picture. The train doesn't leave DC until 4:05 PM but started the boarding process ~3:20PM. We got there super early & just hung out for a couple of hours. When it was time to board they let all the bikes get in line first. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rbhOiSYA5Kk/V9Nc9Wh4y9I/AAAAAAAAEgc/UrkXHy8O58E9W_StO11wW7j2g0ePPPx5gCPcB/s1600/IMG_3919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rbhOiSYA5Kk/V9Nc9Wh4y9I/AAAAAAAAEgc/UrkXHy8O58E9W_StO11wW7j2g0ePPPx5gCPcB/s320/IMG_3919.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amtrak Station</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dKJf9qvpt3w/V9Nc9XLtroI/AAAAAAAAEgc/x4267-wcz54IP15XDyxCjWFTgzROYlHPACPcB/s1600/IMG_3947.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dKJf9qvpt3w/V9Nc9XLtroI/AAAAAAAAEgc/x4267-wcz54IP15XDyxCjWFTgzROYlHPACPcB/s320/IMG_3947.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Queuing up to board</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sRk6vfEY43I/V9Nc9d3XFqI/AAAAAAAAEgc/gyeX7j5ybLs-gSTgi3-QIgb78I8g3KV1wCPcB/s1600/IMG_3946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sRk6vfEY43I/V9Nc9d3XFqI/AAAAAAAAEgc/gyeX7j5ybLs-gSTgi3-QIgb78I8g3KV1wCPcB/s320/IMG_3946.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Queuing up to board</span></td></tr>
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When it was time start boarding they let the bikes load first. The only problem was the bike car was broken & they decided to not delay the train to fix it. So they had us board the bikes into a passenger car which caused some confusion initially. Once the agent that knew what was going on arrived it went smoothly. They loaded the bikes by destination. So Pittsburg folks loaded first, then Cumberland, followed by Harpers Ferry. We were able to put all of our bags in the luggage compartment with our bikes. We then were seated in another car.<br />
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The train ride to Cumberland was 3 hours with a few quick stops. The train was on schedule. Since this trains final destination was Chicago it had sleeper cards & a dinner car. We didn't bother with dinner on the train. The seats were super comfy but they had the air cranking so we were cold and our jackets were with the bikes. <br />
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The stop in Cumberland is about 9 minutes. We were able to get our bikes & gear unloaded with no problem. There were more bikes getting on at Cumberland, presumably going to Pittsburg. Overall, the Amtrak experience was great. I highly recommend this if you are traveling with bikes. My only suggestion is to book in advance so you can travel on your desired dates. <br />
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Once back in Cumberland it was a 1/2 mile ride back to our hotel where we left the car. Tomorrow would be the drive back to Lexington & vacation would be officially over. Back to reality.<br />
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Check out my other post on <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2016/09/c-canal-gear-tips-helpful-resources.html">C&O Canal - Gear, Tips & Helpful Resources</a>.<br />
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Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-56715485458484186742016-08-14T17:24:00.006-04:002016-08-14T17:40:36.450-04:00LaPorte YMCA Triathlon - 2016Triathlon is not something I have been focused on this summer. I broke down earlier this year to get an MRI on my shoulder to figure out what is wrong with it & found out I have a ~50% thickness tear in my rotator cuff. OK, now it makes sense why my shoulder hurts. I have drastically cut back on swimming this year. I have been averaging a little over 2,000 yards per <i>month.</i><b style="font-style: italic;"> </b> It's not surprising to learn my swimming has suffered greatly. <br />
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A friend of ours was planning to compete in her first triathlon this summer. She asked if I wanted to come up and do it with her and after looking up the swim distance (1/4 mile open water) I quickly agreed. I have not done an open water swim in a few years but knew I could swim a quarter of a mile.<br />
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The race was on Saturday so we took Friday off & drove up to Northern Indiana. We arrived about 5PM. It gave us plenty of time to visit & have a fantastic BBQ dinner that Caleb made. We all went to bed early. I got a good nights sleep & felt well rested when the alarm went off at 5:30AM.<br />
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We loaded up the car & was on our way by about 6:15AM. We ate PBJ's on our drive up. We arrived around 6:45AM, put our stuff in transition & went to packet pickup. We were pretty much all set by 7:30AM. We headed to the water & did a short swim warm up. At this point, I knew this was probably going to be one of my worst swims ever. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1rkde4RJQqE/V7DgjlVBNwI/AAAAAAAAEV8/0Gc2Ipq5gpMbbAnQZ4-dEPt9VsdHQNzzACEw/s1600/IMG_3356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1rkde4RJQqE/V7DgjlVBNwI/AAAAAAAAEV8/0Gc2Ipq5gpMbbAnQZ4-dEPt9VsdHQNzzACEw/s320/IMG_3356.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iskra & I before the swim</td></tr>
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There were 3 male waves, 2 female waves & 1 relay wave. All went off 5 minutes apart starting at 8AM. We started at 8:20AM. It was awful. I tried to stay to the side but was with people the entire swim. I have no strength in my pull anymore. Well, I do but my shoulder hurts if I try to pull hard so I don't. Since my swim was so slow I was stuck in the breaststroking pack. You know, the ones with the crazy kicks. Of course, I got kicked.....so.many.times. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y6tZmxfShnY/V7Dgj8SsswI/AAAAAAAAEWA/K-EEkqXugqcvJdIhxxQvWoolPnVOelWvgCEw/s1600/IMG_3362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y6tZmxfShnY/V7Dgj8SsswI/AAAAAAAAEWA/K-EEkqXugqcvJdIhxxQvWoolPnVOelWvgCEw/s320/IMG_3362.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maybe I could just water jog this thing?</td></tr>
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When I finally emerged, it was 14+ minutes later and only about 4 people still in the water. I tried to warn Steve I would be slow but he was still surprised at just how slow I really was.<br />
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1/4 mile Swim: 14m26s. 14/14 AG --- aackk<br />
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T1 Time: 1m38s. 3/14 AG<br />
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The bike is where I spend ALL my time now. I love to ride my bike and it loves me. Not like swimming or running. I had no idea what to expect on the route. Iskra said it was a bit hilly but did that mean Kentucky hilly or Indiana hilly? I didn't bother to drive the route before. It did have some hills but nothing too bad. There was just under 300 feet of climbing over 12.4 miles. No biggie. The course was an out & back. The roads near the lake were rough but there was also newly paved roads. I went pretty hard in an attempt to salvage my embarrassing swim.<br />
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12.4 mile Bike: 42m41s - 17.4 mph. 1 /14 AG --- yeeeessss<br />
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T2: 1m4s. 4/14<br />
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The run was lovely. It ran around the lake & was mostly in the shade. I have been maintaining about 10 miles per week all summer and my goal was to stay sub 11 minute mile which I did. The temperature was in the mid-70s which was a nice change from Kentucky. I did pour water over my head several times during the run to stay cool. Surprisingly, I enjoyed the run.<br />
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3.4 mile Run: 37m03s. 8/14 AG --- Met my goal<br />
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Total: 1h36m50s. 7/14 AG --- Not too shabby for not being focused on triathlon training<br />
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I was equally thrilled & frustrated with my times for this race. I am still shocked at how much my swim has declined over the last year due to this injury but I am very grateful that I can do this at all. Thankfully the race didn't make my shoulder worse.<br />
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Iskra did fantastic for her first triathlon. When we left for home she was already looking for the next race.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VfPiVnTwhLM/V7Dgldd5_8I/AAAAAAAAEWI/Ucn6hF9cwL48xYYiQ3SUrpz3PO15E1ebwCEw/s1600/IMG_3375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VfPiVnTwhLM/V7Dgldd5_8I/AAAAAAAAEWI/Ucn6hF9cwL48xYYiQ3SUrpz3PO15E1ebwCEw/s320/IMG_3375.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All smiles at the finish!</td></tr>
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We spent the rest of the day touring the area. We hit up the farmers market, a couple of breweries & a local distillery. The visit made me realize I really miss Northern summers. Not enough to move or anything - the winters still suck!<br />
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Next up...C&O Canal Bike Trip!<br />
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<br />Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-24595083687154647692016-02-28T20:50:00.000-05:002016-02-28T20:50:15.242-05:00Polar Bear Tri - Race ReportWell, hello again blog. It has been awhile.<br />
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Today was the first triathlon of the season - <a href="http://www.headfirstperformance.com/FeaturedEvents/TabId/357/ArtMID/1016/ArticleID/6559/2016-Shelbyville-Triathlon-Series.aspx">Shelbyville Triathlon Series</a>. <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2015/03/shelbyville-tri-series-race-1-recap.html">Last year</a> the weather was icy & the bike was cancelled. This year was a picture perfect weather day.<br />
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We caravanned from Mary's leaving her house about 6:45AM & arrived at the race site at 7:40AM. We had the perfect amount of time for packet picket, body marking, transition setup & a couple of bathroom breaks. The pre-race talk was around 8:20AM & the race started at 8:35AM according to my Garmin.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yHEMrNkCDAI/VtOcCx-8I7I/AAAAAAAAEPA/eMBxdu59iJU/s1600/IMG_2135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yHEMrNkCDAI/VtOcCx-8I7I/AAAAAAAAEPA/eMBxdu59iJU/s320/IMG_2135.jpg" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruth, Audrey, Mary, Me & Misty</td></tr>
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This first tri of the series is a reverse - meaning Run, Bike then Swim. This was my first reverse since last year ended up being a Dash & Splash due to icy roads. I liked the idea of not being all wet & then hoping on the bike but I think overall I like the traditional Swim, Bike, Run order. <br />
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The other thing about the series is each race gets a little longer so since this was the first one of the series it was the shortest - 3K run, 6 mile bike & 400 yard swim. <br />
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It is also, hard to know how to dress this time of year. The temperature was in the low 40s & sunny at the start but warmed up really quick. I had my tri suit under running tights & 2 layers on top. I wore thin gloves & a beanie - both I took off for the run but put back on for the bike. I was pretty warm on the run but perfect on the bike. <br />
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The run was an out & back. We started off pretty fast. The out was faster than the back. There was a little wind but not awful. My run is pretty solid this year. My right knee has been a little achy but I have been trying to take it easy so it doesn't get worse. So far it has been working. Even with taking time to heal my achy knee I was still over a minute faster than last years 3K time in the Dash & Splash. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m69h16-ZAuE/VtOccT4lgvI/AAAAAAAAEPI/a6yHQryq7D0/s1600/IMG_2142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m69h16-ZAuE/VtOccT4lgvI/AAAAAAAAEPI/a6yHQryq7D0/s320/IMG_2142.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Run into Transition</td></tr>
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3K Time = 16m45s<br />
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T1 was good. I decided not to wear the jacket I brought since I was so warm on the run. It was a good choice. <br />
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T1 Time = 0m46s<br />
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The bike was a loop with some easy hills. I was in big gear the entire ride. The wind was picking up & one turn was pretty brutal into the wind but thankfully there was also a slight downhill. My bike was solid as well. I have been very regular on the trainer this winter which has helped. It is nice to start off the season strong. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zK7Tk9WbJkw/VtOcUpaA2rI/AAAAAAAAEPA/dsK2WEdYNYM/s1600/IMG_2152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zK7Tk9WbJkw/VtOcUpaA2rI/AAAAAAAAEPA/dsK2WEdYNYM/s320/IMG_2152.jpg" width="206" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bike back into Transition</td></tr>
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6 Mile Bike = 19m50s<br />
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T2 was slow. I racked my bike & took my shoes off then ran to the pool. I stripped the layers off in the pool area. <br />
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T2 Time = 2m25s<br />
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The swim was the dismal portion of the race. I have been struggling with a shoulder issues since last summer & haven't really swam much. Every.single.stroke.hurts. It sucks. I started PT 6 weeks ago & it has helped but I still feel pain when I swim, do a push up, side plank, etc. I go back to the ortho this week to see what, if any, the next steps are.<br />
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It took 3 attempts to get my googles properly seated. That was annoying. It took 200 yards to find my breathing rhythm due to being out of breathe from the bike & transition run. It also felt like I had a lot of traffic - mostly swimmers that were faster than me but took a couple beat break at the wall so we ended up swimming pretty close together most of the swim. My upper body felt tired. I really need to find some upper back exercises that don't hurt my shoulder. I did not enjoy the swim this year. My swim was over a minute slower than last year but that was expected. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k-hvh183FFM/VtOchgOkXaI/AAAAAAAAEPI/U-MFMTRK4Jo/s1600/IMG_2162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k-hvh183FFM/VtOchgOkXaI/AAAAAAAAEPI/U-MFMTRK4Jo/s320/IMG_2162.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pfew, Done!</td></tr>
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Swim Time = 10m37s<br />
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Total Time = 50m37s<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mary & Me</td></tr>
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I won my age group but there was also no one else in my age group. I won a pair of Speed Levers to change a flat. Hopefully, I won't need them anytime soon!<br />
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Happy racing y'all!<br />
<br />Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-7547866446821256202015-08-23T17:46:00.002-04:002015-08-23T17:46:14.966-04:00Wild & Wonderful Bike CampingBetter late than never on this post. I take trip notes which is a good thing otherwise I would have forgotten all the little details of this trip by now.<br />
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Steve has gotten into adventure cycling & bike camping this year. So naturally our summer vacation was to include both. 4th of July week we went to West Virginia to tackle the <a href="http://www.greenbrierrailtrailstatepark.com/">Greenbrier River Trail</a>. The trail is 77 miles of rails to trails. <br />
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We drove to West Virginia on Saturday with no real plan yet in place. We stopped in <a href="http://www.lewisburg-wv.com/">Lewisburg</a> Visitors center which is near the southern trailhead. We picked up some maps & a recommendation for a place to have dinner. We stopped in at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HillandHoller">Hills & Holler</a> bike shop & pizza place. Super cool place & they had great food. Steve had a pizza & I tried the crab cakes. Yum.<br />
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After dinner we headed to <a href="http://www.watoga.com/">Watoga State Park</a> for the night. We got campsite #14 right on the river. It had been raining all day so the sites were pretty wet but it was manageable. We set up for the night, got cleaned up & it started raining. Thankfully the rain waited until we were ready for bed.<br />
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We were trying a couple different types of sleeping gear. The first night we used the Therm-a-Rest sleep cots. They were OK but noisy when moving around on them. They do pack up pretty small & are light weight. They did take up a lot of room in the test compared to the sleeping pads. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CruUxDcca70/VdnFsLsckaI/AAAAAAAAD88/o8pXnFMBuM8/s1600/IMG_2677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CruUxDcca70/VdnFsLsckaI/AAAAAAAAD88/o8pXnFMBuM8/s320/IMG_2677.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Campsite #14 - Watoga State Park - Night #1</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greenbrier River - High water level due to all the rain</td></tr>
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On Sunday we got up & made coffee & oatmeal for breakfast. We packed up our gear & headed to the Seebert trail head - MP 45.8. Our plan was to start in the middle of the trail & do an out & back heading North first. The trail consists of crushed gravel. I was riding my hybrid with 2 rear panniers & the doggie trailer. Steve had his gear loaded in 4 panniers on his bike. Before we started I was thinking we could knock out 35 miles a day. Boy was I wrong....<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My fully loaded bike </td></tr>
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Pulling the trailer was a huge mistake. It was nice to have the extra space but made the ride so much harder than it needed to be. The first day I was only able to average 8 mph or so. <br />
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That first day we headed out at 10AM - actually everyday we heading out around 10'ish. The weather started off cool & cloudy. Due to all the storms we came across some downed trees. The WVA parks system takes great care of the trail. We saw them daily on the trail cutting down fallen trees & maintaing the pit toilets along the trail. I was super impressed with the trail maintenance. <br />
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We stopped in Marlington for lunch at the <a href="http://www.dirtbean.com/">Dirt Bean Cafe & Bike Shop</a>. The food here was great. Helps that you work up an appetite on the bike! Steve had the Dirtbean Dip & I had the Chicken Avocado Wrap. We also had some coffee & took cookies to go. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dirt Bean Cafe - Marlington, WV</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YWCAAGEIUws/VdnLTx-b59I/AAAAAAAAD90/wbSzgnSzTyA/s1600/IMG_2746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YWCAAGEIUws/VdnLTx-b59I/AAAAAAAAD90/wbSzgnSzTyA/s320/IMG_2746.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside <span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Dirt Bean Cafe - Marlington, WV</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inside <span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Dirt Bean Cafe - Marlington, WV</span></td></tr>
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After lunch we rode a few more miles. We stopped around 3:30PM at the campsite at MP 63.8. The maps we had listed this as the last campsite going North that had water & a toilet. We found out the next day that MP 69.6 had the same amenities but wasn't listed on the map a such. <br />
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We rode about 18 mile that first day. At this point I knew there was no way we would be riding 35 miles a day. <br />
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We setup camp & then got ready for dinner. We brought a bunch of <a href="http://www.mountainhouse.com/">Mountain House</a> dehydrated meals. This night we had the Chicken Fajita wraps. Just boil water, pour in pouch, wait a few minutes & serve. Easy peasy. It is surprising but the meals are actually pretty good. <br />
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One nice but sometimes unsettling thing about the Greenbrier trail is that it is pretty deserted. We were passed by one group shortly after we stopped but never saw anyone else that night or the next morning. It was a weird feeling to be out in the middle of nowhere at night. Once it got dark I got spooked by every little noise. To be fair, there were some loud animal noises very close by. I'm used to hearing sirens & horns not animals at night. We did see lots of deer on the trail & we were warned about black bears in the area but never saw one on the trail. Steve did rig up a system to hang our food bag in the trees before bed just to be safe. <br />
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On the second night we slept on our sleeping pads instead of the cot. I think they are just as comfortable but there is no way I am going to get as good of a nights sleep as I do at home. Each night camping we would go be bed around 10PM & get up around 7AM. Pretty much from sunset to sunrise.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S8KGGPjSOVI/VdnNYRt4uOI/AAAAAAAAD-Y/6g705ibDcy8/s1600/IMG_2698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S8KGGPjSOVI/VdnNYRt4uOI/AAAAAAAAD-Y/6g705ibDcy8/s320/IMG_2698.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Greenbrier River Trail MP 63.8 - Night #2</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zO3HqvtKDag/VdnNYpNUPTI/AAAAAAAAD-c/aq6k2yC_gwg/s1600/IMG_2699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zO3HqvtKDag/VdnNYpNUPTI/AAAAAAAAD-c/aq6k2yC_gwg/s320/IMG_2699.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Greenbrier River Trail MP 63.8 - Night #2</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XqPJWZoKERU/VdnNSAyGa-I/AAAAAAAAD-Q/vUHplib_CGc/s1600/IMG_2701.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XqPJWZoKERU/VdnNSAyGa-I/AAAAAAAAD-Q/vUHplib_CGc/s320/IMG_2701.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Greenbrier River Trail MP 63.8 - Night #2</span></td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Day 3 on the trail started with coffee & a dehydrated breakfast - Egg Skillet Wrap. We then packed up & headed out around 10:30 AM. Our plan was to head to the town of Cass & Northern terminus (MP80) of the trail for lunch. When we got to Cass there was this really cruel steep, short all gravel climb. I wasn't able to get the momentum I needed to get up the hill & got stuck. Thankfully Steve got up it & was able to help me get my bike up the hill as well. We then rode around the little town & realized that the main restaurant was closed on Mondays. Bummer. Lucky for us there was another restaurant/grocery/gas station near by that was open. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9bNRFXfbI7s/Vdn_6AwYAcI/AAAAAAAAD_A/R6OKW2h34t4/s1600/IMG_2702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9bNRFXfbI7s/Vdn_6AwYAcI/AAAAAAAAD_A/R6OKW2h34t4/s320/IMG_2702.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sharp's Tunnel & Bridge - MP 65.2</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RGCC_hdsj_s/Vdn_3R_LqjI/AAAAAAAAD-w/0LE7X8agWvc/s1600/IMG_2706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RGCC_hdsj_s/Vdn_3R_LqjI/AAAAAAAAD-w/0LE7X8agWvc/s320/IMG_2706.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Sharp's Tunnel & Bridge - MP 65.2</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cvNIGgTT250/Vdn_34Hw8oI/AAAAAAAAD-0/JHOAYQJYbUo/s1600/IMG_2708.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cvNIGgTT250/Vdn_34Hw8oI/AAAAAAAAD-0/JHOAYQJYbUo/s320/IMG_2708.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Sharp's Tunnel & Bridge - MP 65.2</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KUha-x1YaVY/VdoAJ6MeHzI/AAAAAAAAD_Q/32DMUgys0Ak/s1600/IMG_2721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KUha-x1YaVY/VdoAJ6MeHzI/AAAAAAAAD_Q/32DMUgys0Ak/s320/IMG_2721.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Town of Cass - MP 80.4</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uavKfwJCbqw/VdoAJ4XO2qI/AAAAAAAAD_Y/wa6T44cURvc/s1600/IMG_2722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uavKfwJCbqw/VdoAJ4XO2qI/AAAAAAAAD_Y/wa6T44cURvc/s320/IMG_2722.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Town of Cass - MP 80.4</span> </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ShetUPXHzYY/VdoAJxN_o1I/AAAAAAAAD_U/Y7DtqIQbcMA/s1600/IMG_2725.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ShetUPXHzYY/VdoAJxN_o1I/AAAAAAAAD_U/Y7DtqIQbcMA/s320/IMG_2725.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Town of Cass - MP 80.4</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R8HFEnaMbkk/VdoAOFlyAqI/AAAAAAAAD_o/-yfFQtp0Bfo/s1600/IMG_2726.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R8HFEnaMbkk/VdoAOFlyAqI/AAAAAAAAD_o/-yfFQtp0Bfo/s320/IMG_2726.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Town of Cass - MP 80.4</span></td></tr>
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After our lunch we headed back down the trail. We arrived at the MP 69.6 campsite about 4:30PM. This site was further from the trail which was nice. Although no one came by the trail while we were there it felt a little better not being so close to the trail. Day 3 mileage ~29 miles.<br />
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By evening #3 we were getting pretty proficient at camp set up. Dinner tonight was Beef Chili Mac & cookies from our lunch stop. We were cleaned up & in the tent by 8:30PM. I wasn't much of a fan of hanging out in the dark especially since we didn't have any wood for a fire. Since we were in the mountains it gets dark pretty early.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Z0LDz3O-6M/VdoBsyYahwI/AAAAAAAAD_8/-KiEeir5NHc/s1600/IMG_2727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6Z0LDz3O-6M/VdoBsyYahwI/AAAAAAAAD_8/-KiEeir5NHc/s320/IMG_2727.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Greenbrier River Trail MP 69.6 - Night #3</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2sYzMUoUEco/VdoBuLgVyUI/AAAAAAAAEAE/e3VkxbYTEgo/s1600/IMG_2728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2sYzMUoUEco/VdoBuLgVyUI/AAAAAAAAEAE/e3VkxbYTEgo/s320/IMG_2728.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Greenbrier River Trail MP 69.6 - Night #3</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tpOKaZp17hE/VdoBtEDK_1I/AAAAAAAAEAA/IQ569Q_sh28/s1600/IMG_2730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tpOKaZp17hE/VdoBtEDK_1I/AAAAAAAAEAA/IQ569Q_sh28/s320/IMG_2730.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Greenbrier River Trail MP 69.6 - Night #3</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ATgOlPnHczg/VdoB438F30I/AAAAAAAAEAY/SadnHS6k4ho/s1600/IMG_2733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ATgOlPnHczg/VdoB438F30I/AAAAAAAAEAY/SadnHS6k4ho/s320/IMG_2733.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Greenbrier River Trail MP 69.6 - Night #3<br />It's amazing how much crap you can haul on your bike!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PBQN7bh-MLU/VdoB47FJsFI/AAAAAAAAEAU/Ny5E5TfPb0k/s1600/IMG_2739.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PBQN7bh-MLU/VdoB47FJsFI/AAAAAAAAEAU/Ny5E5TfPb0k/s320/IMG_2739.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve demonstrating the bear bag is high enough</td></tr>
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Day 4 we were up again by 7AM. We had coffee & oatmeal for breakfast. We broke everything down, packed up & headed out on the trail by 10AM. We could have done all of that faster but there was absolutely no point in rushing. We like to ease into our vacation days.<br />
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We headed back into Marlington for lunch. We thought about trying a different restaurant but decided to go back to Dirt Bean. At this point of the trip I was ready to be off the bike & have a hot shower. There are no amount of wipes that can make me feel clean & fresh after 3 days of hard cycling & no shower. I wanted a shower & to wash my hair. Period.<br />
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We rode back to our car in Seebert & got a campsite in Watoga State Park. All I cared about were the showers. We got a campsite for 2 nights since we had decided we were going to take the next day off from riding. Day 4 total ~ 24 miles. 3 day total 75 miles.<br />
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Watoga campground is really an RV park. The sites are really nice if you have an RV since they are large, lots of trees & along the river. The problem with the site we had is there was no level ground to pitch a tent. The closest area to a level spot was virtually the site next to us which seemed weird to us since our site was huge but we pitched the tent there anyway. By this point we decided we would only stay one night & find another place to stay tomorrow. All I really cared about was a shower which I proceeded to take & it was the best shower ever! Even if it was a camp shower it was hot & I felt clean afterwards. Priceless.<br />
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The other nice part about being back in some civilization was ice & cold beer!<br />
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We decided to grab a pizza at the town store instead of making another dehydrated dinner. We also bought some wood to have a fire. It was actually quite nice until it started pouring down rain at about 8PM. So into the tent we went for the rest of the evening.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2UMT1MhJpjI/VdoQd_skZJI/AAAAAAAAEAw/8I_D0u-nzA0/s1600/IMG_2749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2UMT1MhJpjI/VdoQd_skZJI/AAAAAAAAEAw/8I_D0u-nzA0/s320/IMG_2749.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watoga State Park Site #7 - Day 4 </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lzs2euguw7Y/VdoQdeTLplI/AAAAAAAAEAs/PVNTucaczlk/s1600/IMG_2750.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lzs2euguw7Y/VdoQdeTLplI/AAAAAAAAEAs/PVNTucaczlk/s320/IMG_2750.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Watoga State Park Site #7 - Day 4</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e9AReT6asD0/VdoQeIHamcI/AAAAAAAAEA0/eVdMZQRpIW8/s1600/IMG_2751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e9AReT6asD0/VdoQeIHamcI/AAAAAAAAEA0/eVdMZQRpIW8/s320/IMG_2751.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Watoga State Park Site #7 - Day 4</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqWnpwquhFM/VdoQiyyEloI/AAAAAAAAEBE/bo26Ue0yfag/s1600/IMG_2752.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqWnpwquhFM/VdoQiyyEloI/AAAAAAAAEBE/bo26Ue0yfag/s320/IMG_2752.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Watoga State Park Site #7 - Day 4</span></td></tr>
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Day 5 we did no biking. We decided to check out Cranberry Wilderness & do some hiking. Unfortunately the visitor center was closed on Tuesday & Wednesdays so we did some exploring around the area. We did a couple of hikes that amounted to about 5 miles. The Cranberry Glades Overlook hike was a bit meh but the Black Mountain Trail was awesome. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vzhKoX4EU-I/VdoStX7gY-I/AAAAAAAAEBY/ueEH9ESBDbo/s1600/IMG_2756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vzhKoX4EU-I/VdoStX7gY-I/AAAAAAAAEBY/ueEH9ESBDbo/s320/IMG_2756.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bS8jA6LwWE8/VdoTssKJMKI/AAAAAAAAEB4/dJb4BClb-6U/s1600/IMG_2755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bS8jA6LwWE8/VdoTssKJMKI/AAAAAAAAEB4/dJb4BClb-6U/s320/IMG_2755.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cranberry Glades Overlook</td></tr>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SE4dx1J8hcM/VdoS87psMkI/AAAAAAAAEBw/UZ2me7eynGY/s1600/IMG_2763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SE4dx1J8hcM/VdoS87psMkI/AAAAAAAAEBw/UZ2me7eynGY/s320/IMG_2763.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NCP05wMpZxM/VdoSoDmuT4I/AAAAAAAAEBQ/6jF3HevfnY8/s1600/IMG_2757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NCP05wMpZxM/VdoSoDmuT4I/AAAAAAAAEBQ/6jF3HevfnY8/s320/IMG_2757.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Mountain Trail</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sI3LxJUszCg/VdoSuG_J5KI/AAAAAAAAEBg/NLrjfjxQ6AE/s1600/IMG_2760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sI3LxJUszCg/VdoSuG_J5KI/AAAAAAAAEBg/NLrjfjxQ6AE/s320/IMG_2760.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Black Mountain Trail</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u-Wel-8wNts/VdoS8ycYpgI/AAAAAAAAEBs/Xtq0iNNGJ0k/s1600/IMG_2761.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u-Wel-8wNts/VdoS8ycYpgI/AAAAAAAAEBs/Xtq0iNNGJ0k/s320/IMG_2761.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Black Mountain Trail</span></td></tr>
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After hiking we had another dehydrated lunch at the overlook. After lunch we headed back to Watoga State park & drove through more of the park. We found some really cute cabins & was lucky enough to get one for 2 nights. We then headed back to pack up camp & move to the cabin.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_EDXUvfdVOE/VdoVCAfxpoI/AAAAAAAAECo/otKQyLyhFQQ/s1600/IMG_2771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_EDXUvfdVOE/VdoVCAfxpoI/AAAAAAAAECo/otKQyLyhFQQ/s320/IMG_2771.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watoga State Park Cabins - Day 5 & 6</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fNuTuheLFFA/VdoVCH_Jo-I/AAAAAAAAECs/1_WDAI6cuvw/s1600/IMG_2772.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fNuTuheLFFA/VdoVCH_Jo-I/AAAAAAAAECs/1_WDAI6cuvw/s320/IMG_2772.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Watoga State Park Cabins - Day 5 & 6</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f2y7uinopsY/VdoUxmJu9rI/AAAAAAAAECA/cvBITmTSObE/s1600/IMG_2766.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f2y7uinopsY/VdoUxmJu9rI/AAAAAAAAECA/cvBITmTSObE/s320/IMG_2766.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Watoga State Park Cabins - Day 5 & 6</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MGj5P2J7KKI/VdoUyP4qPSI/AAAAAAAAECM/mvbJ8CahLUk/s1600/IMG_2768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MGj5P2J7KKI/VdoUyP4qPSI/AAAAAAAAECM/mvbJ8CahLUk/s320/IMG_2768.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Watoga State Park Cabins - Day 5 & 6</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aXFvRAzlR4s/VdoUxryfu4I/AAAAAAAAECE/c5WYA673zPI/s1600/IMG_2769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aXFvRAzlR4s/VdoUxryfu4I/AAAAAAAAECE/c5WYA673zPI/s320/IMG_2769.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Watoga State Park Cabins - Day 5 & 6</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xSs_mhyeao0/VdoU6uVi0cI/AAAAAAAAECY/2ITMgfHO3Bc/s1600/IMG_2770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xSs_mhyeao0/VdoU6uVi0cI/AAAAAAAAECY/2ITMgfHO3Bc/s320/IMG_2770.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Watoga State Park Cabins - Day 5 & 6</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Day 6 we did more hiking. The weather was drizzly most of the day. We did another hike in Cranberry Wilderness - it was in the cranberry bogs. Nice hike but not what I was expecting when I hear cranberry bogs. We then went to hike the Falls of Hills Creek. Now this was an awesome hike even in the rain. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g5KaO_qK4s0/VdoWkz5dWCI/AAAAAAAAEC0/PSAb68XTmh4/s1600/IMG_2776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g5KaO_qK4s0/VdoWkz5dWCI/AAAAAAAAEC0/PSAb68XTmh4/s320/IMG_2776.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9XTUR9W1v54/VdoWrnMwTPI/AAAAAAAAEDE/t8KlhhBiAsg/s1600/IMG_2778.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9XTUR9W1v54/VdoWrnMwTPI/AAAAAAAAEDE/t8KlhhBiAsg/s320/IMG_2778.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cranberry Glades</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2sBoOohijgQ/VdoWmhNhacI/AAAAAAAAEC8/xaSoqtBy6sQ/s1600/IMG_2780.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2sBoOohijgQ/VdoWmhNhacI/AAAAAAAAEC8/xaSoqtBy6sQ/s320/IMG_2780.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Cranberry Glades</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XP944nEWvQA/VdoW7IlPo4I/AAAAAAAAEDc/cLBcmLslHZw/s1600/IMG_2785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XP944nEWvQA/VdoW7IlPo4I/AAAAAAAAEDc/cLBcmLslHZw/s320/IMG_2785.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Cranberry Glades</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3J5SLo3mGvk/VdoXjUP6H9I/AAAAAAAAEEA/PIhX_i9OA6Y/s1600/IMG_2817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3J5SLo3mGvk/VdoXjUP6H9I/AAAAAAAAEEA/PIhX_i9OA6Y/s320/IMG_2817.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Falls of Hills Creek</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SZwDCxL_I7Q/VdoXEEN1VpI/AAAAAAAAEDs/GGyz90R4AbQ/s1600/IMG_2795.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SZwDCxL_I7Q/VdoXEEN1VpI/AAAAAAAAEDs/GGyz90R4AbQ/s320/IMG_2795.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Falls of Hills Creek</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vv10-Lhg_Bw/VdoXF28ikrI/AAAAAAAAED0/uZsolaOKMSA/s1600/IMG_2804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vv10-Lhg_Bw/VdoXF28ikrI/AAAAAAAAED0/uZsolaOKMSA/s320/IMG_2804.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Falls of Hills Creek</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NBDoETqDl7c/VdoX1fU7exI/AAAAAAAAEEM/sivZmItcNTc/s1600/IMG_2816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NBDoETqDl7c/VdoX1fU7exI/AAAAAAAAEEM/sivZmItcNTc/s320/IMG_2816.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Falls of Hills Creek - Lots of Stair Climbing</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YDFr4RYAXx4/VdoXBHwX3rI/AAAAAAAAEDk/SVZutoAwN4I/s1600/IMG_2812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YDFr4RYAXx4/VdoXBHwX3rI/AAAAAAAAEDk/SVZutoAwN4I/s320/IMG_2812.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Falls of Hills Creek</span></td></tr>
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We headed back to Watoga State Park & did a couple more hikes around the park. Total hiking for the day about 4.5 miles.<br />
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2 days off the bike was perfect & we felt ready to tackle some more of the Greenbrier River trail. We decided to wait until Friday morning to see what the weather was going to do. It ended up storming on Friday so we headed home. We will go back again to finish the Southern end of the trail.<br />
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We learned a lot of lessons on this trip but overall really enjoyed it. Some of the lessons learned:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Don't tow a trailer unless you have no other option. It makes for really hard biking especially over gravel.</li>
<li>Plan in a recovery off the bike day. </li>
<li>Showers are awesome.</li>
<li>Don't tow a trailer</li>
<li>Showers are awesome</li>
<li>Any and all food is the best food you have ever eaten when you have been out riding</li>
<li>West Virginia is beautiful!</li>
</ul>
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<br />Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-51598891331580540482015-07-12T10:01:00.000-04:002015-07-12T10:11:58.918-04:00Survive the Night Triathlon Relay Report<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On June 12-13th six of us participated on a team for the first annual <a href="https://healthylex.com/survive-the-night-triathlon/">Survive the Night Triathlon</a>. This was a nice local option since the 27 Hour Triathlon was no longer being held. <a href="https://ironcology.org/about-us-2/">Jonathan Feddock</a> was the race director - he took on an amazing project as his first foray into race directing. This event is an extension of his <a href="https://ironcology.org/">Ironcology</a> effort he started last year in an effort to raise money for the <a href="http://ukhealthcare.uky.edu/markey/">Markey Cancer Center</a> at the University of Kentucky.<br />
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This event was well timed with Steve's recovery from rectal cancer earlier this year. We put together a team named - <i>Team Steve - Get It Caught with your Pants Down</i>. The <i>It</i> being colon/rectal cancer :-)<br />
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The event included a 4000 meter swim, 108 mile bike & a 26.6 mile run. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pgwWsz_PWlc/VZhTkBcwzyI/AAAAAAAAD2s/aQ_8hSahhnA/s1600/2015%2BSurvive%2Bthe%2BNight%2BStart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pgwWsz_PWlc/VZhTkBcwzyI/AAAAAAAAD2s/aQ_8hSahhnA/s320/2015%2BSurvive%2Bthe%2BNight%2BStart.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Steve = Shannon, Audrey, Me, Steve, Becky & Ruth</td></tr>
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The event started at 7PM at Spindletop with the swim. Everyone but Steve swam so we each did 800 meters. We had to submit our swim & bike estimates prior to the event. I was pretty impressed how close we hit our splits. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cP_9sDoyUho/VZhVfS9f9iI/AAAAAAAAD3M/Z3cuh61-XfE/s1600/IMG_2617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cP_9sDoyUho/VZhVfS9f9iI/AAAAAAAAD3M/Z3cuh61-XfE/s320/IMG_2617.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Becky swimming into the sunset</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The bike portion was at the <a href="http://www.kyhorsepark.com/">Kentucky Horse Park</a> so that meant about a 2 mile transition run. Since Steve wasn't swimming he was our transition runner.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mD-U5XtHhw4/VZhVfQ1vknI/AAAAAAAAD3Q/SrY1w4lcGBg/s1600/IMG_2620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mD-U5XtHhw4/VZhVfQ1vknI/AAAAAAAAD3Q/SrY1w4lcGBg/s320/IMG_2620.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve ready to run to the Horse Park</td></tr>
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The bike portion was a 4.5 mile loop entirely inside the Horse Park. Everyone on our team did 4 laps or about 18 miles on the bike. This was probably the oddest/coolest portion of the event. It was dark by the time we started our riding which meant we needed headlights & tail lights for our bikes. They did have some lighting on the course but there were still some really dark areas. Plus the transition from bright light to darkness was really hard on the eyes. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3OSG3xY_N9s/VaJfEIs5bSI/AAAAAAAAD5E/zfPP66DbZaE/s1600/IMG_2642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3OSG3xY_N9s/VaJfEIs5bSI/AAAAAAAAD5E/zfPP66DbZaE/s320/IMG_2642.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handoff from Audrey to me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U3f82MVODrc/VaJfdwD_TAI/AAAAAAAAD5U/oQ1Gzu3mSHo/s1600/IMG_2646.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U3f82MVODrc/VaJfdwD_TAI/AAAAAAAAD5U/oQ1Gzu3mSHo/s320/IMG_2646.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handoff from me to Steve</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v14yZMcrZhw/VaJfERzEY3I/AAAAAAAAD5I/ph7IURQtB0w/s1600/IMG_2644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v14yZMcrZhw/VaJfERzEY3I/AAAAAAAAD5I/ph7IURQtB0w/s320/IMG_2644.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handoff from Steve to Ruth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4wW4LxdXRBs/VaJhJ_bhulI/AAAAAAAAD5g/_4TVojGMeOw/s1600/STN%2BRuth%2Bto%2BShannon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4wW4LxdXRBs/VaJhJ_bhulI/AAAAAAAAD5g/_4TVojGMeOw/s320/STN%2BRuth%2Bto%2BShannon.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handoff Ruth to Shannon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xHyK2Gjk0wY/VaJhJ6DPnlI/AAAAAAAAD5k/_5LYKJjJfjw/s1600/STN%2BShannon%2Bto%2BBecky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xHyK2Gjk0wY/VaJhJ6DPnlI/AAAAAAAAD5k/_5LYKJjJfjw/s320/STN%2BShannon%2Bto%2BBecky.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handoff Shannon to Becky</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It took us most of the night to finish the 108 miles. I think somewhere around 4AM Becky started the run portion of the race. The run was a huge loop throughout the area countryside with various mileage segments. <br />
<br />
We split the group into 2 teams of 3 to meet each runner at the various handoffs. Becky, Audrey & Shannon were in the first group. Ruth, Steve & me were in the second group. The run segments varied from 3 miles to 7 miles. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-izCs7RE67r4/VaJiKdNbknI/AAAAAAAAD6A/XRb1ad6mgPk/s1600/IMG_2623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-izCs7RE67r4/VaJiKdNbknI/AAAAAAAAD6A/XRb1ad6mgPk/s320/IMG_2623.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shannon finishing her 7 mile leg</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CoubfiTJEC0/VaJiun_QjUI/AAAAAAAAD6Q/jY3u8uH1-yc/s1600/STN%2BRuth%2Bto%2BAndrea%2Brun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CoubfiTJEC0/VaJiun_QjUI/AAAAAAAAD6Q/jY3u8uH1-yc/s320/STN%2BRuth%2Bto%2BAndrea%2Brun.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruth finished her 5 miles & I am about to begin my 4 mile leg</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XngezICqLFs/VaJiF8yRPwI/AAAAAAAAD50/ZowcMvjKHBA/s1600/IMG_2626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XngezICqLFs/VaJiF8yRPwI/AAAAAAAAD50/ZowcMvjKHBA/s320/IMG_2626.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view along my run</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XvYbDd-lbE0/VaJiIwoVUKI/AAAAAAAAD58/wqs3PuUKpFs/s1600/IMG_2627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XvYbDd-lbE0/VaJiIwoVUKI/AAAAAAAAD58/wqs3PuUKpFs/s320/IMG_2627.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve is super excited to run us in to the finish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-94JIESraj8o/VaJolao1GBI/AAAAAAAAD6g/SirfGyIXhYQ/s1600/IMG_2628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-94JIESraj8o/VaJolao1GBI/AAAAAAAAD6g/SirfGyIXhYQ/s320/IMG_2628.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Steve at the Finish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: start;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Our finish time for 140.7 miles was 14 hours 32 minutes. </div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: start;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Overall, for a first time event, it was awesome. I really liked how the money raised went to our local cancer center. Most folks have been impacted by cancer so the cause resonates with everyone. The race director knows what he needs to improve for next year & has already communicated his thoughts on what went well & what didn't which I think is pretty awesome. I am hoping next year will be fully contained in the Horse Park. That would be so much easier from a logistics stand point. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: start;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
The weather was perfect for this race which is actually surprising in hindsight since we have had a crap ton of rain this summer! <br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: start;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5HPLcNSvAaQ/VaJoleTeJLI/AAAAAAAAD6c/DnQES2JyUgw/s1600/IMG_2635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5HPLcNSvAaQ/VaJoleTeJLI/AAAAAAAAD6c/DnQES2JyUgw/s320/IMG_2635.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">T-shirt & the medal </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rEqTm0O8tqA/VaJovUZHbGI/AAAAAAAAD60/D3N3osHiX8E/s1600/IMG_2636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rEqTm0O8tqA/VaJovUZHbGI/AAAAAAAAD60/D3N3osHiX8E/s320/IMG_2636.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t3SrHNLvy40/VaJoyuLfanI/AAAAAAAAD7I/RCmLHfK1aW0/s1600/IMG_2637.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t3SrHNLvy40/VaJoyuLfanI/AAAAAAAAD7I/RCmLHfK1aW0/s320/IMG_2637.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MDRj3KSNM9I/VaJoxhKt7nI/AAAAAAAAD7A/xdhwiM3nzqE/s1600/IMG_2639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MDRj3KSNM9I/VaJoxhKt7nI/AAAAAAAAD7A/xdhwiM3nzqE/s320/IMG_2639.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Steve - Cancer Survivor Award<br />
L-R Steve, me & Ruth (also a cancer survivor)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3477025083449772854.post-33290781208412592492015-05-16T12:34:00.002-04:002015-05-16T12:34:35.326-04:00Foiled Again - DNS<br />
This weekend we were supposed to be in Knoxville for the <a href="http://www.challenge-familyusa.com/challenge-knoxville">Challenge Knoxville Olympic </a> triathlon. I won this race back in January at the <a href="http://www.bluegrasstri.com/">Bluegrass Tri Club</a> kick off event. Even though we had a <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2015/03/spring-fast-forward.html">terrible winter</a> I managed to get a good training base in thanks to committing to the <a href="http://bluegrasstrichick.blogspot.com/2015/04/shelbyville-3-race-report.html">Shelbyville Tri Series</a>. It forced me to get on my trainer all winter. Once mid March came around I was able to get some good outdoor rides in. I was feeling strong for so early in the season. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-th3maSdk1lU/VVdtmNjiK2I/AAAAAAAAD1Y/_RkG_GhWL8I/s1600/11188462_10152968102401925_1019148411115239790_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-th3maSdk1lU/VVdtmNjiK2I/AAAAAAAAD1Y/_RkG_GhWL8I/s320/11188462_10152968102401925_1019148411115239790_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From our last 40 Miler Ride</td></tr>
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Then it happened. It started out as a cold but then morphed into pneumonia. And just like that training came to a complete halt 11 days before the big race. I fought a fever as high as 103F for several days before the second round of antibiotics kicked in. The next few days I was completely exhausted & had an annoying cough. 10 days in, I am feeling better but do not have enough energy to work out yet.<br />
<br />
I am bummed but things can always be worse. I will get over this crud soon & will be able to start training again. Patience isn't my strong suit. <br />
<br />
The doctor did lecture me on not using my inhalers daily. I am so bad taking medicine if I feel OK. The reality is I get sick every spring. It always starts out as allergies then turns into a cold / sinus infection. This year I was doing so good. I didn't get sick at all this past winter so it was that much harsher when I got this doozy of an illness. <br />
<br />
In an effort to not repeat this next year I am going to document my spring plans here as recommended by my doctor & and on my calendar for March 1, 2016<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://qvar.com/">QVAR</a> - If no longer taking - restart! Take 2 puffs 2x per day.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.ventolin.com/">Ventolin</a> - Take everyday. Use prior to every workout</li>
<li><a href="http://www.webmd.com/allergies/ss/slideshow-nasal-irrigation">Nasal Rinse</a> every night</li>
<li>Shower in evenings instead</li>
<li>Even if weather is awesome don't do every workout outside especially when pollen counts are high.</li>
</ul>
Bluegrass Tri Chickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10960208841865863136noreply@blogger.com0