Lakefront Cottage

Last fall a group of us took a ride over to a friend's lakefront cottage.  Although it was crisp and cool the day of our visit, it now seems balmy compared to the bitter cold we've experienced lately. Looking forward to warmer days ahead. - P

Why Did the Deer Cross the River?

Today I think it was for me. So I could stop in complete observation and awe. These are the kinds of interruptions in a daily routine that are welcomed gratefully. Perfect day to be surprised on a run. -A

Relaxing Tuesday

A couple of weeks ago I had the opportunity to meet my friend J at the Botanical Gardens. It was a perfect October day. The best part was that it was a weekday and I was able to spend it with a friend.  I also enjoyed how quiet it was and not having to deal with the weekend crowds. - P

Autumn Ride

It is a day you want to bottle up and bring out in the cold dark winter or the dog days of summer. Perfect sun, temperature, and breeze. -A

Bits of Fall

Fall is here! It arrived quickly and quietly this year. I plan to enjoy the crisp cool mornings, warm days, and early sunsets.  - P

Towpath Marathon

The Towpath Marathon was held in Peninsula, Ohio a couple of weeks ago.   The weather was a concern as they predicted 40 F and a possible chance of rain.  We were pleasantly surprised that it didn’t end up raining and the cool weather kept us from overheating.  Our previous race routes have all been in major cities, which proved to be interesting as well as entertaining having crowds of people cheering us on.  We weren't sure how we would feel racing on a trail without all of the people and city life.  It turned out to be one of our favorite races.  The route was flat, not overcrowded and the race was well organized.  The volunteers were great at the fuel stations.  I never felt like I was tripping over people to get water.  There were also pockets of people cheering on the runners at various points on the trail.   Aside from feeling well prepared for the race all these factors added up to PR times for the four of us.   We went away from this race smiling and positive thoughts about doing it again.   - P

Colors of Fall

The best thing about Fall is its leaves. The worst thing about Fall is it leaves. I have taken the time to take some pictures of the colorful displays from nature this year while I've been out and about. The peak leaf changing season seems extended this year. No matter a bright blue sky background or a dismal gray, the oranges and yellows and reds seem to pop. -A

Yellow Leaves

Fall is really here.  It's now October and so many of the leaves aren't green any longer.  I really love the beautiful yellow leaves of this tree.  It is almost perfectly shaped (aside from the dead branch hanging off the side) but I try to enjoy the bright color of the leaves while they last.  The tree is just as lovely when it's green all summer, but it truly is stunning in its current state.  - P

  

First Snow

Today marks the first snow of the season which seems so soon after the first frost.  It is a bit early but since we expect it to be in the 60's Sunday, it really didn’t bother me.  It should be easy to remember the first snow as it is 11/11/11 and Veteran’s Day today. - P

Afternoon at the Vineyard

As far as wineries go I have enjoyed my visits to all of them.  Whether they have been located in France, California, Canada, New York, or Ohio the experience has always been an enjoyable one.    The wine is better at some of them, but the experience of relaxing with friends and family or just the two of us is as equally fun.  Over the weekend we went to an Ohio winery that seems to always be a very nice experience.  The wine is good and the atmosphere is similar to a small winery in the French countryside. Really!  I think going there at any time of year is nice but going in the fall is just perfect.  I couldn't get a clear picture of the beautiful fireplace and pizza oven since there were quite a few people blocking it but the rest of the photos should give you a good idea of just how inviting it can be.  - P