Along My Path

Work Always on My Mind

May 9, 2010
By: Julie McCallum,
Senior Staff

Running for me is more then exercise or a work out. It's a time to clear my mind of work and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, a way to breathe in the sights and sounds of this wonderful place we call Bay County.

On this particular day, seems I can't get my mind off of it even when I'm not at work.

So, I'm sharing some of the scenery and thoughts along the path of my run.

Before my run it takes me at least 15 minutes of preparation to dress in the appropriate and necessary gear. (Pictured Below) Includes:

New Balance Running shoes - MADE IN THE USA

Mueller Knee wraps for support of my knee caps (arthritis in both knees, cyst behind knee cap, cartilage wore down almost to nothing, my knees will be the death of my running obsession.

'Feetures' support footies from 'Runners'

I-Pod - (has to be 'inspirational' music, I've had some songs I've heard almost bring me to my knees)

HAT - I can not, can not run with out a hat on, it's weird.

Interchangeable lenses sunglasses from 'Runners' (I can't go for a run without sunglasses either hence, the interchangeable lenses for overcast days.)

Blackberry - in case such emergencies

Under Armour gloves for when it's cold, I have bad circulation in some of my fingers. Also these gloves include the necessary nose wipe, genius. Got those from Dunham's in the Bay City Mall.

Reflective arm band - although I joke about getting hit by a car, because most runners run opposite of traffic, not me I run with traffic, would rather not see if I'm gonna get hit, until one day, I was about one foot from getting hit by a vehicle, I thought someone might care if I got injured, so I invested in the reflective band from Runners.

Apparel must include some kind of advertising (come on I've worked for an advertising agency for almost 25 years, its bred into me)

Then another 15 minutes of stretching, VERY VERY Important to stretch before and after run/work-out. Then a warm up with a walk and a cool-down.



On with the Run . . .


Good way to start, with a prayer . . .


Checking out the Advertisement


Hmmm . . . it's not a 44 footer, but it will get you on the water


Unleashed Dog . . . Never know when I might need that Medical attention


I come across a lot of roadkill . . . Not too many deer



AHH . . . Mussell Beach is Open . . . A true sign that summer is almost here!


Beautiful Scenery


C A S T A W A Y S


Mmmmm ICE C O L D


Much DIVERSITY in my run


Contemplating Many Decisions


I can guarantee I don't have to worry about breaking the speed limit law, and I will do my best not to let any other runners pass me.


Rain or shine . . . I ruined my I-pod when I got caught in a rain storm 1 hour away from home


The thought of jumping off the bridge crosses my mind, every time I get to this point


Met two friends . . . enjoying the walk on this warm day


A near end prayer to boot


Ahh Finish Line always looks good - After all the stops to take pictures, it's probably a good thing my time doesn't show - it was not to impressive