Gift of Dirty Sock

I had actually been dreading today's run, as the weather for most of the week has been 30's and snowy/grapple/sleety with a projection of the same for the weekend. As I needed to run 20, I just was a bit put off at the thought of running in snow...again, but low and behold I woke up at 6 AM and it was clear. I drove down to our little slice of Moab here in the Gunnison Valley, Hartman Rocks and what luck to have such a day. Sunny, breezy with increasing clouds as the day progressed (I WAS out there for 5 hours 15 minutes, so a lot of time to assess such things), but NO moisture whatsoever.

Started at the McCabe's entrance and climbed up the road, which I've done many times now, but continued on straight where I usually veer off to the left. This enabled me to be adventurous and explore an area of Hartman's I'd never seen and also trying out Dave Moe's trail, Enchanted Forest trail and a section of Skull Pass. Then, headed back around on the road to do one of absolute favorites at Hartman's, Dirty Sock. So, literally and figuratively I DID Dirty Sock...JOY! Each of the trails I did the out and turned straight around and did the same back. I forgot my map and figured that this way I wouldn't fetching get lost...say what you will, it worked. Rounding back on the road I connected with Josie's trail and did the same out and back then was done.

Until mile 18, I had only seen one person, another runner. Then, came across quite a few groups of mountain bikers heading out or in from trail enjoyment. I didn't see too much wildlife other than a plethora of birds and small ground-dwelling mammals, which the dogs seem determined to harass each and every one. The only bummer about Hartman's is the lack of water for the dogs. We found some large swath of snow at about mile 10 and the dogs ate and rolled to their hearts content. Then, just prior to and after Dirty Sock goodness there was an area of boggy puddles. I always share what's in my pack with Natty, but as Bombadil isn't the sharpest tool in the shed just can't seem to master this task. I fear we may be nearing a close for this season and the dogs and Hartman's for long runs.

Bummer no photos, sorry, Shamus had the camera on his turkey hunting weekend, which unfortunately produced no turkey and one majorly tired boy.

Hope that everyone's races went or go very well! My thoughts also go out to all those people who've felt the results of the tornados down south and so sorry for your losses.

Peace...