My Christmas Card Lane Run

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This morning we debuted my seasonally appropriate 5- to 8+-mile course through Rancho Penasquitos, which is highlighted by rolling hills, soaring views, a little freeway madness and a spirited romp through a storied neighborhood of handmade holiday “cards” displayed on almost every front yard, block upon block.

The run began and ended at a greenway at the base of my street and traveled through several neighborhoods, including Christmas Card Lane. We even had wintry weather to accompany us – it was in the mid-30s, about 10 degrees cooler than usual for mornings here now (the drink canisters collected frost!). But the sun was out and soon warmed both us and our surroundings to a balmy 45. Have I mentioned that we’ve had perfect weather for all three of my runs, despite it being a pretty wet month?

I have to say, I was impressed with the turnout, given this is probably one of the busiest weekends for people, between traveling and entertaining and last-minute shopping – and the fact I tend to design, ahem, tough courses. What can I say; I’ve yet to meet a hill I didn’t love. In addition to Christmas Card Lane, which we hit smack dab in the middle of the 5-miler, there’s a great, wide, rolling bike path along the 56 freeway that seemed to be a hit with folks. Incorporating the path, which extends almost to the beach, allowed those who needed to go longer than 8 miles to do so. And for the last mile, all runners are rewarded with a terrific vista of neighboring Mira Mesa -- and a candy cane we used for tracking runners as they spread out.

A special thanks to my “elves” at the aid stations – Louise, daughters Elise and Alex, Cindy and Randy. And to my husband Gilbert for staying behind to make sure brunch went off without a hitch. Thanks also to everyone who brought stuff for our potluck breakfast. I think we’ll be eating bagels and muffins and chocolate milk for months!

Here are some photos from the day (Click on the picture to see a larger version).































I'm not sure what's going on in that last photo. I was giving our program leader, Stephen, some gifts of appreciation. These and many more photos will be posted in the San Diego Track Club's Web site photo gallery soon.

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