Running in the Mud

Last Sunday, we were awaiting a snow storm that produced about 7" in this area. Monday was snowy and by Tuesday morning, the cold had set in. And then Wednesday morning at my usual running time of 4:00 a.m., it was about 9 degrees. But Philadelphia weather being what it is, the high yesterday was 71, and this morning when I started my run at 7:00, it was 57...warm enough for shorts and just a light long-sleeve polypro top.

So Sarah and I were off on the trails. Sarah is not a big shepherd. Two weeks ago at her annual check-up, she weighed 70 pounds. She is one huge muscle from all the running she does. But she's pretty low to the ground. When she runs on muddy trails, all the water and mud kicks up on underside. This morning was no different. When we got back from a 10 miler, she was dripping in mud.

I have to trick her into going around to the back of the house and waiting on the back deck while I duck inside and return with a huge beach towel. I have to give her credit, though. She'll sit down patiently while I towel her off. Then I'll throw the towel over her and she sort of gets all tangled up in it. She'll shed the towel quite quickly, give herself a shake, and then gives that look as if she's saying, "Can we go running again?" A big bowl of food and water usual set her straight. Me too, although I prefer my food on a plate and my water in a glass or bottle.