Encountering a Runner with my Furry Companion, Darby

While Darby and I were out for an afternoon run this past weekend on the Rails to Trails at Black Creek Park, on the return leg of an out-and-back, we approached a fellow runner. 

As she got closer, I observed what appeared to be an expression of recognition on her face. So I immediately went into "Do I know her?! I don't know her?! Maybe I should know her!" mode. 

As we got within a few yards of one another, she pulled to a stop and asked, "Is that Darby?" I must have appeared bemused when I affirmed that it was. She proceeded to tell me that she had recently moved here from Hoover and had come across this blog while in search of places to run. She had read the blogs featuring Darby at Black Creek Park and on the Rails to Trails.

So recent transferee from Hoover, if you're still visiting here, we hope you enjoy our little stretch of woods, and Darby and I are glad to have met you!

Review :: Camelbak Lobo

I recently purchased a Camelbak Lobo, which has a 100 oz. reservoir and a good bit of storage space. My intentions for it are multifold. Primarily, I will use it for running; when I'm trail running or getting those long runs in for half-marathon training (and soon, the full 26.2), the 32-ounce bottle I carried on my waist just didn't cut it. The Lobo's capacity more than triples that, and is more comfortable. I was concerned that a shoulder pack would slosh and negatively affect my rhythm, but after a couple of minutes of getting accustomed to the pack's movement (which fell in line with my own), it was no longer a conscious thought.

Seen here in mid-stride at the Huntsville Half Marathon
sporting my Camelbak Lobo 100oz pack.

After getting the Lobo, I was pleased to see that it has enough compartments to carry some light camera equipment on hikes. I will easily be able to carry my Panasonic LX3 along with its Conversion Adapter, which allows it to accept filters. And even then I'll have room for a couple small snacks, a utility knife, first aid kit, and perhaps a couple of other small necessities.

Filling and cleaning the bladder was easier than with any other hydration pack I've used previously. The straps are easily adjustable for various body types and sizes. The padding is of a type that's designed to wick away moisture and increase breathability, thus keeping you cooler. Additionally, a number of reviews indicate that the water in the pack will be kept cold for hours; of course, that will depend on the ambient temperature, I imagine.

If you're looking for a hydration pack with a large reservoir and multiple utility, the Lobo should be a strong consideration.

Running and Shooting at Ruffner Mountain

I went running today at Ruffner Mountain Nature Center in East Lake. It was my first time over there, so in addition to my running apparel, I carried my handy-dandy Panasonic LX3. I took a trail that led me first to the wetlands.

Then I went a bit further, maybe another mile downtrail.

There I came upon Lizard Loop, where I eventually turned around and headed back to the nature center. After 3.5mi of (somewhat stop-and-go) running, and an additional mile or so of walking, I have to call my first trail running excursion a success, both aerobically and photographically.