I got a great night sleep, and got up at 6:00 a.m. for my last run in Newport, RI. The day was crystal clear. The water in Newport is sooooo blue on those clear days. And when the sun rises, the ocean literally sparkles like diamonds/saphires. I know that sounds corney. The expanse of ocean from those cliffs is so beautiful against the blue horizon with a few sail boats in the distance, and sufers floating near the shore. I love the sound of the ocean from above. It is such a spectacular run. I spent time this morning noticing the amazing landscaping of those gynormous mansion grounds. I ran my 5 miles averageing 8:30 m/m (I had taken ibuprofen before the run and comitted to taking it the rest of the day). But I've reduced the mileage by half hoping to not further aggravate this tendon in my thigh. After my run, my good friend met me at the beach for a swim and taught me to use his paddleboard (like a really big surfboard you stand on, and paddle with an orr kind of like a kayak orr). It was a beautiful last morning in Newport. I have seared the vision/memory of those blue, clear ocean meets sky mornings into my mind so I can recall them on those bland, white/grey winter days in Utah. This year, I'll be dreaming of the rolling ocean underneath the paddleboard as I rowed. Off to DC on the train. I should be at my sister's by tonight. Goodbye Newport. | 