TEST #3
The situation: Immediately following today’s face-hair-ripping appointment I met up with my acupuncturist, her hubby and Seamus their hound. Cheryl had told me they’re exceptionally fit (the hound possibly less so), which made me a little anxious. I hate holding people up. But part of me thought, “Come on … how fast can they really be?”
Man, are these guys in good shape. Man, they’re in really good shape. I mean, man. Our route through Strawberry Canyon was strenuous (about 1600–1800 feet in elevation gain) if not long (maybe four miles). We began on a steep fire road that was slightly gullywashed and muddy from yesterday’s rain. Within minutes the distance between my companions and me grew from yards to light years. Sometimes Seamus would stop and look over his furry shoulder at the pinpoint that I was fast becoming.
I’m discouraged. After two months of training I thought I’d be in better shape. As I hyperventilated my way along I realized my foot may be the least of my worries.
Anyway, though, it was an enjoyable hike, great company and a pleasant day to be out — warm but not too hot, sunny but with a sharp wintry light (that my camera couldn’t capture). The smell of eucalyptus and herby things was aggressively good. We passed a young garter snake, coyote or fox scat and some orange, brain-shaped mushrooms.
After 3.5 hours of what felt like all uphill but wasn’t, I saw a fire tower on a hilltop a ways ahead. Trying to sound cheerful I asked, “Are we going up there?” “No, but we can if you want to,” my hiking-mate replied. “I’ll go with you.” She was serious.
The outcome: Heel surprisingly well-behaved again during the hike. Distinctly better than a couple weeks ago. Acupuncture must be helping.
A few hours after the hike: not as happy.
Threat level:
