Figure 8

Today's run was a family event. Every one was a bit out of sorts today. I don't know why. This afternoon, after my son was unable to play nicely with his friend, I decided it was time for us all to get out and move. So, we packed up and went to a small lake here in town. There is a nice path around the lake including a bridge that goes across the middle. I remember reading that a figure 8 around the lake is 3 miles, give or take, so I decided that's what we'd run. My son rode his bike and my husband pushed my daughter in the stroller. That really slowed him down! He claims he had problems keeping up because he's out of practice, but I think it was mostly the stroller. When we were about 3/4 done, I noticed that the turkey vultures were flying over us. Maybe they knew how much we were struggling??!

The run was fine. I had to stop twice for my son, but it worked. I didn't seem very fast. I think I run better with my music. I didn't take my mp3 player this time so I could talk with my family better. But, I got my run in and that's what counts!

Afterward, we watched some people catching small fish from the lake. My son was impressed. He got to hold the pole some and touch a small bluegill the man caught. Then we walked some up a gravel path that leads up a hill to a beautiful place that overlooks the lake. Very pretty. They've recreated prairie and wetlands around the lake, which used to be a quarry. Prairie flowers, Canada geese, and TOADS galore! We kept having to stop to catch toads. At first, I did all the catching, but then my son got the hang of it. My daughter was thrilled to touch the toads. Unfortunately, then it seems the toads decided to go elsewhere. Maybe they got word that we were coming. We also saw a pheasant flying, deer and lots of butterflies. Monarchs, I believe.

If for some reason you are ever in Iowa, I highly recommend a run at Ada Hayden Heritage Park. They started restoration 4 or 5 years ago and it's finally maturing. They've done a great job and the park has really blossomed, figuratively and literally. The trails are well maintained and it's an all-round nice little recreation area.