Some say that drizzling rain and 53 degrees is perfect running weather, but Saturday's turnout would not support that hypothesis.  Only 60 people showed up at Hunters Woods Pool, and the number would have been substantially smaller - reduced by a third - if not for an impressive contingent of dedicated BOP-ers (kudos to Amy B and Caroline H) and a half dozen walkers.  Three Newcomers, Rama (Vienna), Jess (Baltimore buddy of Anna B), and Ashley (Reston) also joined the group.

Joe S asked for announcements, which led President Tim to note that November is when everyone should sign up for our Fall-into-Winter race as either volunteer or runner or both - visit the  RR website   NOW! The Prez then proudly reported spectacular performances by Chris D, Cris H, and Pete B at the Florida Ironman. As impressed as we all were, we were  surprised to learn that Pete needs even bigger challenges; he is searching for a double Ironman - just because he can, I guess.  

Walking the paths, crisply marked with rain-resistant flour by Kathleen G and Liz O’T (chalk doesn’t last in the rain), was a particular delight because of the presence of Joe F, Patty J and Jerry L.  The best thing about walking, IMHO, is the walkers, who not only can but actually do carry on intelligent conversation.  The first topic was a  careful review of operatic opportunities in the DC area.  There are some amazing possibilities.  I subsequently learned that I’m not the first person to come to the realization that northern California might be a nice next place to live.  Several members of our Club share my aspirations, and, thanks to the internet, are already looking at Pacific-coast real estate. The prices are dauntingly stratospheric;  we are going to have to work together on this.

Finally, thanks to Will F and Anne D, I learned a new pair of PFLAs (profane four letter acronyms) that will come in very handy:  AFGO (another f-ing growth opportunity), and the engagingly ambiguous AFRO (“race” instead of “growth”).  

Following the run we retired to Cosi’s for breakfast, where runners offered wise opinions on many deep philosophical questions, such as: why is it possible to put a man on the moon but not convert back fat into cleavage?; why can’t a sports bra offer utility and sexiness?; and why is there such a stark difference between men and women in how they go commando?  I’m not making this up.  I concluded that, in a battle of wits, walkers trounce runners decisively - though  Dennis H did make some excellent observations; maybe I need to revisit that question.  However, when it comes to wit alone, Chris D rocks!

Finally, Jordan A and Jarrett M offered Anna B, Tim C and Dennis H lessons on the latest iPhone apps, including “Words Free,” a terrific on-line version of Scrabble. Anna was so enthralled she gave Jordan a massage.

Sunday approximately 70 people met at the Lake Newport Tennis Courts to run the infamous pipeline course, or walk 3 or 6 miles.  Two newcomers, Jennifer and Frank (Fairfax) listened attentively to the usual instructions and announcements, including President Tim’s offer that those interested in running on an RR team at the National Marathon in March should send an email to president@restonrunners.org. If last year is any indication, being on a team is a sure way to win prizes. Moshe F also thanked the Gungadin for their service and called for volunteers: Everyone should do this.

Conversation on the walk took a more personal nature, so it cannot be repeated here. However, it was pointed out that we are once again entering RR election season.  What does that mean?  Well, it’s time once again to ferret out “friends” who are willing to serve RR as a Member-at-large, President, Vice President, Secretary, Walking Leader, or Treasurer.  As last year, the nomination and election process will be on-line. Here’s the thing: It starts in a few weeks, so you need to start thinking now about who you want on your Board of Directors.

The post-run feeding was again at Cosi’s.  Many conversations going on all at once, with Hiroki, Neil, Mary K, Brian K, Jen T, Deedee L, and many others having a good time punctuated by laughter.  John N was particularly pleased with his successful effort to improve Cosi’s management - Signature Salads before noon! One wonders how long Cosi's will maintain its welcoming tolerance toward us all.

Happy running and walking!  Stay safe! And good luck to JFK50 runners and crew bound for Boonesboro.