About the Blogger

I run 10-11 minute miles on a good day, and 11-12 minute miles on most days.  But, I LOVE running.  Specifically, I love trail running.  I love noticing the first leaves on the trail floor in the late summer.  I love noticing how the buds swell on tree branches in the winter.  I love running with my dog, or my husband, or by myself.  I love running on beaches and trails, where I don't see a soul.  I love running past women my age, who are out for a leisurely walk, and imagining that they might think ~ if even for a second ~ 'if that fat, old lady can run, maybe I can too'.  Heck ~ they're probably 8 minute milers, themselves, but it makes me feel a bit more confident when I imagine that I'm not the slowest person plodding along a trail.  And Oregon provides so many wonderful places to run, where I can simultaneously discover and lose myself.

I also love to eat.  Damn you, Oregon and your well-established local foods movement that tempts me with offerings of ground lamb with fresh cauliflower, paired with a crisp Oregon microbrew and followed by a single-source chocolate souffle.  I run because I love to run, and I run because I love to eat.

I decided to start this blog because I travel around Oregon quite a bit for my job.  I've spent a lot of time in motel rooms, where I spend my evenings looking at maps and on the internet ~ in search of a nice place to grab a bite to eat after a long day of work, and/or a nice place to go for a run before hitting the road in the morning.  I'm surprised, in this age of information, how difficult its been to find these Oregon gems ~ trails, ales and eats.  Thus, I'm blogging to share what I've learned on the road (and near my home) about great places to run and great places to eat and drink in the wonderful state of Oregon.

I hope you enjoy.

Obligatory disclaimer: although I work for Oregon State University (OSU), and may at times report on my off-hour activities during a work trip, this blog is in no way connected with OSU.  All opinions presented are strictly my own, personal opinions.  In case you're interested, you can browse my professional blog, here.