January 4 Run: Later changed to: 5 Points Bakery on Wilkins - also New Year's Day Holiday Run at 7:30 a.m. from Starbucks on Forbes and Shady

Next runs: the default New Year's Day holiday run Thursday at 7:30 a.m. from Starbucks at Forbes and Shady (figuring that other places will be closed?) - and the Sunday run from our new go-to coffee location, the 61C Cafe on Murray. [Later changed to 5 Points Bakery on Wilkins.]  I have no idea where it will go, just where it will go to.

Last Sunday, as I set off in the midst of a steady rain, I thought - oh, boy, I really shouldn't have said that about never raining on the run - was just tempting fate - and now I have to go because I offered to lead - yech.  But, lo and behold:  five minutes after we started, the skies cleared, and we were hardly damp.  So again, ye of little faith!  Although it's true many of us are out of town. We had a small but as always loquacious group, traversed Larimer, Point Breeze, Shadyside, East Liberty, Friendship, and Garfield, and again got to witness the Moravian stars shining through the gloom at the corner of Hastings and Selwyn. 

Perhaps the number of endorsements is inversely correlated to the number of endorsers? Probably it's just that I can only pick up one conversation at a time -

• Serial - gotta listen
• This American Life and NPR apps: you never have to be without them
• Things that you think you are making happen, but you are probably wrong:  elevator and street crossing buttons
• What do to about the environmental cost of flying somewhere - carbon offsetting?
• Get your personal budgeting act together
• Children's books! Even the forgotten ones 
• Toys:  wobbles, toy drones (oy - actually this was endorsed at Shadyside Variety, itself an endorsement)

December 28 Run: Bakery Square Coffee Tree - and Christmas Day Holiday Run: 7:30 am Commonplace Coffee on Forbes

Don't forget the holiday run on Christmas Day - 7:30 a.m. from Commonplace Coffee on Forbes (but we'll have coffee afterwards at Starbucks, since they'll be the only place open.)
And on Sunday, I'll call this one, since we didn't make a plan:  meet at the Bakery Square Coffee Tree, (map) for a 5-neighborhood run with Moravian stars. 
And, a reminder for all you early-birds who love the thrill of racing down a hill in pitch darkness, the 5:45 a.m. Wednesday and Friday runs from Forbes and Shady are still happening! 

On Sunday, our traditional holiday dahntahn event had an excellent turnout and good weather, and we ranged over the usual sights.  I have to say that the run itself seemed somewhat uninspired this year - maybe because all the downtown construction has the place looking disheveled, or because the Macy's windows were pathetic, the new Mellon Square was fenced off, the sound sculpture was NOT fixed, Market Square looks like a Shantytown, and the City menorah was STILL crappy.  We took a quick tour inside Macy's, which was OPEN, and which may have depressed everybody. OK, let's suppress the grinch: there were bright spots.  The crazy Steeler-paraphernalia vendors were ready to go at 7 a.m., the carols wafting out of the subway stop were sweet, and the quick illegal entry into the almost-done hip new Kimpton Hotel was kind of fun.  And of course the always beautiful dawn views over the river.
And, there were many endorsements!

• Yummy oatmeal cookies (Joy of Cooking recipe) brought by Carrie
• Sharpsburg eateries:  the Gran Canal Caffe for dinner and the Cafe on Main for breakfast.
• Mah-jongg Meetup at Panera in Bakery Square (but no beginner's classes yet...)
• Dreadnought Wines wine-tasting - we are now planning a RG event on February 6 - stay tuned
• "Add your own recipes" feature on Epicurious - they will be there forever
• Undercover Boss starring Bill Peduto - was Sunday night - hope you saw it!  Though it was pretty cheesy.  Oh dear, grinch is returning...

December 21 Run: Annual downtown holiday run, starting at PPG Place Skating Rink

Sorry guys - it's Hanukah!  And pre-Christmas!  Crazy-time!  So this is a little late.

Next Sunday's run is the long-awaited Annual Downtown Holiday Run - starting at the PPG Place Skating Rink (map) at which we will tour dahntahn's glorious festive decorations and hope against hope that those crappy PVC-pipe menorahs have been upgraded to something decent.  Also that the captivating sound sculpture on Strawberry Way is operational.  Coffee most likely at the Market Square Starbucks.

Last week was further proof that, despite all appearances, it never rains on the run - o ye of little faith!  And just to symbolize the faith that we did have, it was highlighted by the largest inflatable Mary possibly ever seen.
Cheryl led our trusting group on a magnificent art-and-architecture-studded run through the Mexican War Streets, California-Kirkbride (I think), Manchester, and Allegheny West.  Too many adorable and fascinating things, and views,  to catalog here - you'll just have to come along the next time.  Except I will mention RandyLand, which gave us the chance for only a slight trespass as we climbed up to peer through the gates - below.  Relaxing coffee but the holidays have me too frazzled for endorsements - will be more relaxed by Sunday, so remember to bring some.

December 14 Run: Mexican War Streets starting at Crazy Mocha on the North Side

This coming Sunday, Cheryl has graciously offered to take us around her new neighborhood - the North Side Mexican War Streets and maybe a bit of Manchester, and we'll meet at the Crazy Mocha on 2 E. North Street (map.)

Last Sunday on the strip our run started under the flight of hundreds of crows across the early dawn sky, and ended with the sight of a giant transparent moon setting by the river.  We ran down Penn Ave., crossed the 31st. St. Bridge (reportedly the longest bridge... somewhere?), visited the homes of random Steelers on Herr's Island, followed Laurie through our customary trespass to get on the trail back to the 9th Street Bridge and a straight shot (tip for future runs: top notch restroom at the Hampton Inn on Smallman) to the promised La Prima, amazingly busy at 8 a.m. on Sunday, as we squeezed in around a stand-up table, helping ourselves to just-baked almond meles.  This produced many endorsements:

• Kukicha Tea, only available at the East End Food Coop, provides more calcium than just about anything
• S&D Polish Deli for all things Polish, including fabulous pirogies and pierogi-making classes
• Dreadnought Wines has a Casual Friday night wine tasting event that sounds delightful - suggestion was made for RG to attend en masse - how about the 19th??
• Movies:  Interstellar (the future) - Moonstruck (the past, including Cher!)
• Brass Quintet concert at Phipps
• Nationality Rooms annual holiday event - the afternoon after the run - belly dancing, African drumming, guys in Lederhosen, bagpipes, samosas, strudel, and a once-a year tour of a hidden secret room based on the House of the Seven Gables - don't miss it next year -

Dec. 7 Run: 21st and Liberty for a Strip Run

Next up:  meet at the parking lot at 21st and Liberty in the Strip District.  We'll try to weave the themes of Pearl Harbor Day and Pierogies into this run.  Maybe things that start with P, which includes Pastry, of course, at La Prima!  For the hardiest among us, there will be a run to the run, starting at Wendy's house at Wilkins and Beechwood, at 6:15, I think - please send a correction if needed.  (RTTR times recorded in 2007 say 1 hour from Wendy's house to the Downtown Hilton.)

For the Thanksgiving holiday week we had two runs, the first to take the edge off the day beforehand, and the second to recover and burn off some of that butter afterwards.  I don't know about you, but several pounds of butter that had been in the fridge on Wednesday were gone by the time we sat down at the table.  On Thanksgiving, Virginia took us up and down 6.5 cleansing miles around Squirrel Hill, and on Sunday it was the bird run of RG lore, now getting its name from a trendy backyard chicken coop spotted off Beechwood.

Endorsed:  more trends, going local (are we turning into Portland?)

• CocoBella Naturals 
• The Framesmith on Murray - ask for the Wendy Bennett discount!
• Don't miss the Handmade Arcade this Saturday at the convention center
• Center for the Arts Giftshop - see adorable pierogi ornament:
• New local bookstores rising from the Barnes & Nobles ashes
• The Burgh's own Michael Keaton in Birdman, and soon-to-be visiting scholar at CMU

Preview: Dec. 14 run is a tour of the Mexican War Streets and Manchester, starting at Crazy Mocha (also local) on 2 E. North St., led by our newest Northside resident, Cheryl.  Then, on Dec. 21, the annual Christmas and Hanukah Holiday run downtown, more details to follow.

Thanksgiving Day run: Commonplace at 7:30 AND November 30 Run: 61C Cafe on Murray at 7

First, Thanksgiving (in 2 days!) - Virginia will "lead a Thanksgiving morning run (for anyone not doing the Turkey Trot) that starts at Commonplace Coffee at 7:30 a.m.  It is a 6 1/2 mile run that goes thru the golf course, around Schenley Plaza and around Cathedral of Learning, back thru Shadyside and Point Breeze to Squirrel Hill." 

Second, next Sunday - we didn't really settle on anything special, so we will start at our new home at 61C Cafe on Murray Ave., and will be surprised.  However some plans are being made for a Troy Hill run soon, to pay homage to the largest collection of relics outside the Vatican, and probably also outside of the early bird movie at the Manor. (I can say that because I have been known to be there myself and actually fit in pretty well.)

This past Sunday was delightful, as the frigid temp had finally fled, and Frick Park was almost bare so that you could easily see the tiny fairy doors in the tree trunks, that we looked for as we ran through. Looming hawks and atmospheric crows brought Audubon to mind - evidently the Univ. of Pittsburgh has one of the few remaining sets of original prints.  But even more delightful was coffee at Wendy and David's house afterwards - we didn't want to leave, even after the fabulous treats from the hot new bakery across the street had dwindled to crumbs on the plate.

Endorsed:  
The aforesaid bakery, 5 Points, on Wilkins!
Whidbey Island and Deception Pass near Seattle
Friendsgiving - escaping from the family mishegas
Book:  Michael Chabon's Telegraph Ave. - almost as good as his Kavalier and Clay

November 23 Run: Meet at the Frick Park gatehouse on Reynolds Street for an enchanted run through the woods.

Next Sunday, meet on Reynolds Street at the Frick Park gatehouse for a magical, enchanted run led by Wendy to search for the "fairy doors" and "gnome homes" hidden within trees along Tranquil Trail.  This is a run not to be missed!  Wendy is also kindly inviting us all to her and David's home afterward for coffee (6425 Wilkins at Beechwood; park on Beechwood).  We're hoping the new Five Points Bakery next to Wheel Deliver will be open for us to purchase treats, but if not, Wendy will have backup treats.

Last Sunday, we met at Riverview Park for a combination trail-road run led by yours truly.  We began at the Allegheny Observatory and took in the views of the Downtown skyline (unfortunately the Observatory is closed for tours for the season), then circled back to the trails.  We explored the winding trails and steep topography of the park, blinking off snowflakes from our eyelashes, and stopped to check out some ruins (Watson's Cabin, behind the group in the photos, on the "to-be-refurbished" list).  We then admired the beautifully restored Chapel Shelter (nice spot for a wedding!) and the Bear Pit, which is now a Public Works storage shed, but once had actual bears living on the ground level while spectators could watch from above on the next floor (!).

Endorsements from during the run: Orphan Black now available on Netflix; also Twin Peaks' reunion coming up!  Coffee was back at 61C, but I didn't write down any further endorsements on a napkin (still Roye's domain!), so I will leave it at that.

November 16 Run: Meet at the entrance to Riverview Park (near Riverview Avenue and Rt 19-Perrysville Avenue)

Next Sunday, we will explore--for the first time, I believe, in EERunners' history--Riverview Park, one of the City's beautiful parks and home to the Allegheny Observatory.  I think the leaves on the trees may have fallen enough for us to catch some great views of the City as well as the surrounding hillsides.  I will lead us on both the trails (weather- and light-permitting) and the roads, to show the group some of the secrets the park has to offer.  Park along Riverview Avenue (near Perrysville Avenue) near the entrance to the park.  From Squirrel Hill, it's about a 15-20 minute drive.

I don't have a summary for last Sunday's run because I wasn't there, and many others were running various races.  The EQT 10-Miler, Clarkston Backroads Half Marathon, and I believe a Chesapeake Bay Bridge race were all represented by EERunners!

I hope we can all reunite soon, including Roye (I think she's returning stateside soon!!!) and those on our injured list.  Hopefully my well-researched Riverview Park run will be just the ticket to bring everyone out.

November 9 Run: Meet at 61C Cafe- Someone will have an idea

Next Sunday meet at our NEW default location, 61C Cafe, and hopefully someone will think of somewhere fun to go. I will miss the run (free RAD day at the zoo, oh the life of a toddler mom!), plus it's the day of the EQT 10-Miler (not sure who will be running that), so plans for a run were not made.
Speaking of the EQT 10-Miler, Virginia has announced that she will no longer be needing her bib and wants to offer it to someone for free:

...please see if anyone wants a free entry for the EQT 10-miler. Rather than formerly transfer the number, which is hassle, I'll just pick up the T-shirt and bib and deliver it to the home of anyone who wants this. It's a $60 value -- for free! -- Thanks, Virginia

So, we had a large-ish group meet up at Tom's house for a pleasant jaunt through Oakland, CMU, and Schenley Park. Beautiful, perfect running weather! We welcomed new and old runners (so good to see alternate run runners Tom, Jonathan, and Paula!) and we continued to wish those on our injured list to get well soon-- we miss you!

Stay tuned for a new upcoming run I will lead the following Sunday-- no spoilers, but I'm going to do some reconnaissance tomorrow to check mileage, views, points of interest, etc.!

November 2 Run: Meet at Tom's House- on Aylesboro near Forbes- and turn your clocks back

Next Sunday, we'll meet at Tom's house (on Aylesboro just before Forbes) to run the "alternate Sunday run."  Don't forget to turn your clocks back Saturday night for the end of Daylight Savings!

This past Sunday, a small group of us patiently waited for the sun to come up so that we could enter Frick Park and enjoy the beautiful fall colors.  Until it was bright enough, we ran through Summerset at Frick Park neighborhood, then linked up to the trail in the valley, past the Irish Center, and into the park.  The trails were gorgeous, and we crossed a new trail that we will have to run sometime when we're feeling a little adventurous: the Rollercoaster Trail.   Tammy, who has toured it before, assured us that there are lots of downhills to make up for the uphills!  After considering an exit from the park down a leaf-covered trail onto Forest Glen, we decided to continue on and exit near Blue Slide Park.

Post-run coffee was at 61C because, honestly, we love the baked goods there!  We facetimed Roye in Uruguay and chatted with her, as she regaled us with stories of the slower pace there, as well as the locals' favorite transportable drink, mate: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mate_(beverage), where everyone is carrying around thermoses of hot water to refresh their mates!  Roye seemed to be equally enjoying and frustrated by the slower pace of life there.  We miss you, Roye!

October 19: 61B Cafe in Regent Square for a Frick Park Run

Next Run, we will meet at 61b Cafe on Braddock Avenue. We might head down into Frick Park to enjoy the fall colors!

Thanks to our newest runner, Tammy, for summarizing the run!

Homewood Cemetery run

Started at Commonplace Coffee in Squirrel Hill, cutting through Smithfield Cemetery, where we admired the sunrise, before heading over to Homewood Cemetery. In Homewood, we observed graves and tombs of individuals Pittsburgh streets are named for such as Baum and Negley.

Stopped at a grave with a lengthy humorous epitaph and proceeded toward the North where we paused again at the pyramid memorial for Robert A. Woods and his wife. A quick search online turned up this article: http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1915&dat=19361212&id=EHwtAAAAIBAJ&sjid=aHEFAAAAIBAJ&pg=3652,3841637

Because I'm a sucker for a good pun, I have to mention Chris's explanation of the next tombstone on the tour enscribed with the surname FRIED. Apparently, this is what you get if you're not good. heh.

Afterwards we scaled a hill back up to a line of mausoleums (Tomb Alley) where moguls in Pittsburgh's steel industry were laid to rest, including Peacock and Frick. Peacock was a sales manager at Carnegie Steel Co. Frick took over after Carnegie left and was so unpopular that the Fricks are actually buried under an extra stone slab to protect them.

We passed a couple of beautiful sculptures in this area: Schoonmaker and Mellon. I couldn't find information identifying any special meaning of the angel other than it being a guardian angel. Link to info about Schoonmaker himself: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Martinus_Schoonmaker

A number of us were struck by the sadness of the Mellon sculpture entitled "Motherless" but in this article under the question, "Is there one thing on the tour that people react to the most?" reveals it's not what it seems.
http://www.pghcitypaper.com/pittsburgh/a-conversation-with-jennie-benford/Content?oid=1335700

After admiring the sun illuminating the apex of the pyramid tomb of successful coal shipper William Harry Brown, we jogged around the outside, observing the Jewish and Chinese sections (with a herd of deer in betwixt!) and launched up a hill for some hill work before getting back onto Forbes en route to Commonplace.

Coffee Convo:
How long the running group has been around (~22 years!) and how cool it would
be to create a map of participants and who brought them in, etc.

Book recommendation: Women Don't Ask by Linda Babcock and Sara Laschever

Teaching: KWL defined. What do you KNOW? What do you WANT to know? What did you LEARN? (Quiz next time)

The importance of a good night's sleep and that it's totally ok to go to bed at 9 or 9:30 to make it up super-early for a great workout!

Lots of good lucks given to Sarah who will be heading to Columbus, OH for her marathon this weekend and to Aimee and Kristen who will be running the Buffalo Creek half marathon.

Oct. 12 Run: Meet at Commonplace Coffee for a special run led by Chris Horowitz

Next Sunday (Oct. 12), meet at Commonplace for an unprecedented run led by Chris Horowitz.

Last Sunday, we enjoyed a run around Wilkinsburg led by Aimee's friend, Michael Lefebvre.  We started and ended at the lovely Biddle's Escape and enjoyed the crisp fall morning, which made for perfect running weather.  Because the route was similar to the run he led a year ago, here is the summary from last year:

Borough Councilman and Third Ward resident Michael Lefebvre led the group on a wild and hilly adventure through the streets of Wilkinsburg, that brought us to hope, despair, and hope again!  Running past abandoned, dilapidated structures with broken windows, we also ran past beautifully renovated historic residential and commercial buildings, community gardens, and many, many churches, all glimmers of hope in a borough with a shrinking tax base.  The borough was historically known as "The Holy City," with its unusually high concentration of churches, seceding from the City of Pittsburgh in 1876 to maintain the religious integrity of the community.  http://www.wilkinsburgpa.gov/about/history.aspx
Efforts by the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation have transformed both residential and commercial buildings in the central part of the borough.  We marveled at the dramatically restoredCrescent Apartments and Wilson House:
http://www.landmarkspreservation.org/work/wilkinsburg/the-crescent/
http://www.landmarkspreservation.org/work/wilson-house/
Scaling a steep hill, we found ourselves admiring the Singer Mansion, which has been continuously occupied since it was built for $75,000 in 1864.  See page 20 for a picture of the mansion. 
  After returning to the Regent Square part of Wilkinsburg, we found a house that was recently featured on the inaugural Wilkinsburg House Tour a few weeks ago.  It was originally purchased for $6,600, fixed up, and resold a year later for $363,000!!!  While the house was purchased through a Free and Clear sale, "flipped" and re-sold, good tax opportunities exist for those who occupy the house for at least 10 years. Here are the details on the borough's TaxBase Expansion Ordinance (which provides a nice tax abatement).

An addition to the route this year was a jaunt along the Linear Park:
http://triblive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/pittsburgh/s_35381.html#axzz3Fbd6tQbC

Since I had to log a few extra miles, I didn't stay for coffee.  Here's what Wendy had to say about the coffee discussion:
Endorsements: digital pianos, advantages of being an employee rather than a boss, jewish-hindi funk music, sweating vs. not sweating while running, missing people who are out on injured list, where was Sandy?!, big welcome to Tammy; hoping Molly can join us soon.

October 5 Run: meet at Biddle's Escape coffeehouse at Biddle and South Trenton, Wilkinsburg

Meeting at Biddle's Escape coffeehouse, Wilkinsburg, for a very special run arranged by Aimee.  Wilkinsburg Council Member and fellow runner Mike Lefebvre will lead our group around his neighborhood to show its highlights and new developments.  This is the second chance for anyone who missed this great run the first time (and I'm completely bummed that I'm going to miss it again.)

Speaking of which, I'm a little short on time these days, so will only say about last week's run that it was a gorgeous early fall Frick Park and cemetery run, that it actually may have been somewhere else but we were talking so much I didn't notice, that we delved deeply into existential questions like:  why are the electrical plugs in other lands all different shapes?, and that we were maybe the first to cross the starting line for the Great Race.  Kudos to all of you who both started and finished it!

September 21 Run: Commonplace Coffee in Squirrel Hill- someone will have an idea

Next weekend is up for grabs; nobody called it, so we'll just go with our default location at Commonplace Coffee in Squirrel Hill.  I'll be out of town, so it's up to all of you!

Yesterday we truly did come to grips with summer's end:  autumn mists covering Frick Park and long-sleeved jackets covering us.  We zigzagged around the park trails, coming upon the surprisingly large construction site of the brand new Environmental Center - remembering the time over a decade (!) ago when we came across the old Nature Center the very morning it had burned down - still smoldering at 7:20 a.m. according to the PG.

Just Cheryl, Judy and I at coffee (still delightful) so I'm tacking a few items:

• shout out to Jacquie in Iowa - thanks for posting the photos - we miss you!
• running group librarian tip for classics lovers:  thousands of books published before 1923 have a totally free Kindle version on Amazon, which you can then read with a free Kindle app on any tablet, phone, or PC - i.e. Babbitt, The Forsyte Saga, any Dickens or Trollope, etc. etc.  (I'm also mad at Amazon's monopoly practices, but this isn't sending them any money.)  Brand new e-books similarly for free from CLP of course.

September 14 Run: Blue Slide Park at Beechwood and Nicholson

We'll meet at Blue Slide Park at Beechwood and Nicholson, and possibly find a new route through Frick Park (or not.)  At any rate, we'll surely be surrounded by early signs of autumn.  Already!

If I might say so, last week's run was glorious.  From the brilliant chandeliers inside the William Penn, to the sparkling waters of the Mon, to the glowing gold of Steelers t-shirts for sale every 10 feet, we traversed new bike paths, crossed rivers, circled Heinz Field, visited the Mr. Rogers (bad) and the WWII (good) memorials, attempted to catch a train at the new Allegheny T Station, and viewed the gushing Fountain at the Point from at least 3 different angles.  The weather was perfection.

Back at the William Penn, we were met by several rather festive Steeler-watchers (one posing here with Sarah) and settled down in the Starbucks there, more elegant than most (but why don't they have real cups?) where we covered the following:

• How Pittsburgh has changed in less than a lifetime - 30 changes in 30 years
• Hearing loops
• Rose Garden in McKeesport
• KT Tape 
• Matchmaker Tova Weinberg, who famously said: "If the mother is Jewish, I don't care if the father is the pope."

September 7 Run: Meet at William Penn entrance downtown

Well, since nobody called a run for next week, I get to pick:  where else but dahntahn?  We'll meet at the entrance to my favorite hotel - the William Penn -

on William Penn Place (and have coffee in the resplendent lobby afterwards.)  But mainly - yes, it's that time again - we must run our magic circle around Heinz Field as a charm for the Steelers' opening day! Just call us...

Last week our two runs were East End specials with great back-from-vacation turnouts:  a drizzly but refreshing Frick Park foray and then somewhere around Squirrel Hill (not sure since I just showed up for coffee.)  A few of us on the DL inspired some talk about having a parallel bike ride - starting and ending at the same spot with the runners.  In fact it could be tried this Sunday - if some people want to show up with bikes and ride around on the trails for an hour - could be an interesting development!  RG never stops evolving.

Speaking of which:  a marvelous invitation from Jan - a running group trip to her peaceful forest cabin in the Laurel Highlands the weekend of Sept. 13 - just email her if you're interested - janetrw@hotmail.com.

Endorsements:

• Wholistic Acupuncture - for heel pain
• Almond flour at PennMac - gluten free baking
• Not using sexually explicit words in online Scrabble with strangers
• Yoga on Youtube - you can get almost any kind of class!  

August 31 Run: entrance to Frick Park at Reynolds and S. Homewood AND Labor Day holiday run at 7:30 from Commonplace

End of summer run!  We'll meet at the gracious stone entrance to Frick Park for a run through the park led by Karen, who always finds the best trails, and who forgives us for inadvertently running off without her last week while she was being a good samaritan.  And of course the holiday run on Monday, meeting at 7:30 at Commonplace Coffee on Forbes, allowing a whole 30 minutes of extra sleep.

A perfect classic Schenley Park run last week - clear skies, leafy paths, lots of gab - just right.  We happened on the two major improvements to the park that are underway:  new separated bike paths around Phipps and new meadows on Bartlett.  And after I lamented the dearth of endorsements last week, the group certainly stepped up to fill the gap this week:

• Quantum Theater's production of Tamara - unorthodox, unforgettable, and somewhat wild theater experience where your running training will come in handy, trust me.  There isn't much time left, though - call soon if you want to go.  Advice:  follow Mario.
• From the sublime to the...   How to deal with bloating:  Beano, peppermint, or charcoal.  (You eat charcoal?)
• For joint pain:  Glucosamine & Chondroitin which needs to also have something called MSM
• Or, a chiropractor!  Preferably one with some kind of knife that she/he pulls over your skin in some way that was described enticingly as "excruciating."  
• Capetown as the most beautiful city anywhere, from another of our global voyagers
• The Renaissance Fair - not tacky, huge fun.  
• Movie:  Boyhood - apparently still at the Waterfront
• This one cannot be spelled out too clearly for fear the appointments will fill up, so it's just:  Lynn, nails, Forward, across from bowling alley.

August 24 Run: Wendy Bennett Trailhead at the bottom of the Schenley Oval for a park run

We will meet at our favorite Wendy Bennett Trailhead, which is located at the beginning of Overlook Drive, intersection with Bartlett St:  map.  The run planned is our classic Schenley Park trek, with coffee to follow at Commonplace.  Something to be said for continuity in this dizzying world.

 Last week we enjoyed another classic, the Three Rivers/Three Bridges run downtown, which never fails to showcase our delightfully picturesque city center.  OK, so it's not the Brooklyn Bridge, but really, just try to get a free parking spot near that one.  The skies were grey, but the rain held off, and the city and its rivers still had a monochromatic beauty which we saw from many vantage points.  Everyone had places to go right after the run, so no coffee chat, hence no endorsements.  Hopefully that will correct itself this Sunday!

(Photo used with Creative Commons license from Flickr.)

August 17 Run: PPG Place downtown for the famous 3-Rivers 3-Bridges run

On Sunday we'll hope for good weather to show off the gorgeous views from 3 bridges - Smithfield St., Fort Duquesne, and West End -  downtown - starting at the fountain at PPG Place.

We certainly had good weather last Sunday as we headed down from the now infamous Blue Slide Park (I mean 22 million views?)  into cool, deep Frick Park.  It wasn't until we reached the very bottom and crossed Commercial St. that I remembered we were aiming for Duck Hollow (which has its own admittedly sparse Facebook page - in this case, 532 views - there is no justice in the social media world) which was as adorable as ever.  Then of course the long, long trek up - passing through the eerily uniform Summerset development, where not a soul was in sight and the gardens look regimented. But it does have a spectacular view. We discussed where we all might want to live after moving out of the family house and looked favorably on the venerable Maxon Towers, which we discovered a) Wendy's Mom wrote a song about, and b) is a NORC.

Later over coffee we endorsed:
Transcendental meditation - may be a road to bliss or at least something different
Tin Front Cafe in Homestead - recently enjoyed
Podcasts:  60 minutes, Story Collider, Freakanomics

August 10 Run: Frick Park's Blue Slide Park at Beechwood Blvd. & Nicholson St.

Next week: Meet at Frick Park's Blue Slide Playground at Beechwood & Nicholson for a Park and Duck Hollow run.

Last week, a small group of us braved the 95% humidity and gloomy, threatening skies to run in Highland Park.  Unfortunately, the trails were too muddy, so we stayed on the roads encircling the reservoir and lake.  We passed the inviting City pool, looping around the park, reservoir, then along a little traversed road with secret City steps.

We enjoyed coffee at delicious Tazzo d'Oro, which never seems to disappoint.

Endorsements:

City Events:
Highland Park's Reservoir of Jazz and Summer Soul Line Dancing Sunday evenings through August
First Fridays at the Frick

Movies: Philomena, The Grand Budapest Hotel
TV: This Old House- Jersey Shore post-Sandy season

August 3 Run: Enrico's Tazza D'Oro on Highland Ave.

Next week:  meeting at Enrico's Tazza D'Oro on Highland Ave. for a (what else?) Highland Park run, and as always we hope Joanne will appear, but if not, Aimee will lead the way.

Last week, after filing through Mellon Park, serenaded by a mysterious young man with a recorder,
Virginia got us to check out the new Bakery Square development.  Apparently there are already some earlybirds living there, waking up to the sounds of earth movers.  We found a new path to Shadyside, revisited the passive house on Walnut Street, the massive houses everywhere else, and pondered the 1-percenters in our town:  who are they and where do they hang out?  We also learned that it is possible to bike to Monroeville from Regent Square in 30 minutes.  Which beats driving on the turnpike at rush hour.

Coffee talk centered on food - surprise!

• Jacquie has been to the Kavsar Uzbek restaurant on Mt. Washington with an intriguing menu listing of meat in jelly, cold soup, ground beef sautéed in omelet with cheese, fried lamb with bones, eggs stuffed with sprats, and pancake bags.  I would go just to order things named Shurpa, Tuzlama, and Holodets.  There is also live entertainment!
• New "artisan bakery" on Wilkins Ave. - awaiting the opening
• Pam endorses Colangelo's polenta almond cream cake from the place next door to La Prima
• We need to stop eating 0% yogurt - it doesn't have the good yogurt germs.  It seems full fat is better for you.  Hurray!
• Speaking of full fat - two cakes have been tested that can be created in your own kitchen and will never be forgotten by their eaters:
• Scott Peacock's chocolate cake
• Amanda Rockman's Basque cake with pastry cream filling

July 20 Run: PPG Place fountain for downtown Open Streets run

We'll start at the PPG Place fountain downtown and take a look at the city without cars during Open Streets Pittsburgh.

The highlight for me last week was Aimee's gracious offer to be co-author of this blog/list!  I'm going on vacation on Friday, and who knows when I'll be back?  (Just kidding, Aimee.)  Last week we had hoped to see the fancy cars in Schenley Park, but realized that would have to wait a few weeks, so we just headed over to Greenfield for something different.  We traversed the great new trail that was once most of Pocusset Street, and saw numerous intriguing and even famous landmarks on Greenfield Avenue:  Salon Louis, home of Tom and Wendy's brilliant stylist, also St. Rosalia's church, behind which we have been known to bushwhack up a giant hill, also Kevin's Computer and Photo and Szmidt's Old World Deli (have no idea how it is but what a great name.)  The hills coming back up Schenley Park were killer, but we talked and talked through them of course.

Endorsements:
The pilgrimage walk to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, led by Macs Adventure
Movie: The Way, where Martin Sheen also makes this trip
The new croissants at Starbucks!

July 13 Run: Starbucks at 2345 (lower) Murray Ave for a trip into Schenley Park for opening of Grand Prix

Cheryl reminds me that this weekend is the start of the Grand Prix, so we can go see what's happening there - and maybe we can also change it up by trying out the Starbucks on lower Murray Ave.  There seems to be some news about Starbucks changing its croissant recipe after buying the La Boulange restaurant/bakery, so I'd say we are required to check that out.

I literally can't read anything on my recording napkin except for "bunbo" and "cat acne" and somehow I hesitate to call them endorsements.  But I can report we had 2 delightful runs last week, starting in the same place but covering completely different territories.

Help wanted:  person who can type and run (not necessarily at the same time) to serve as co-contributor to this blog/list.  Reply to: roye.werner@gmail.com.  It's fun - really!

July 4 (7:30 am) AND July 6 (7 am) Runs: Both starting at Commonplace Coffee on Forbes, for simplicity

Hope that title wasn't too confusing - usually the holiday run comes after the regular Sunday run, but not this time.  So, this Friday, July 4 at 7:30 am from Commonplace.  (And possibly also this Friday, July 4 at 5:30 am for the early-bird weekday runners who just pop awake at 5 every Wed. and Fri.)  And, of course the 7 am Sunday run, let's also make it from Commonplace, because this is already a mess and we really don't want to complicate it any further.

Last week was graciously hosted by Aimee and took us through the Squirrel Hill streets and byways that we never see - Parish Lane, Holyrood St., Kipling St., the house that Willa Cather lived in - followed by coffee, etc. at Aimee's beautifully renovated home where we were joined by Larry and Greta, got some excellent home renovation ideas, and of course had the usual informative gabfest and endorsed:

• TSA Pre - get into the special fast lane at the airport!  You can apply or it seems to sometimes happen to some of us now automatically - possibly because middle aged women in pink Mizunos don't fit the terrorist profile
• Cantaloupes from Costco - tasted at Aimee's - perfect!
• HelpX - volunteer work exchange overseas where Jan is heading right now!
• Drinkable Book Project - from Wendy, and I'm embarrassingly late on this one so we missed the fundraising deadline, but still important to know about.
• Books:  

• Cut me loose: sin and salvation after my ultra-Orthodox girlhood by Leah Vincent (from Pittsburgh) - this set off a local firestorm in the Jewish Chronicle when it came out
• Cooked by Michael Pollan - anyone who cooks will love to read how that activity forms the entire basis of civilization

June 29 Run: Aimee's run from her house at 5557 Woodmont, plus coffee and treats!

Next Sunday Aimee invites us to coffee and goodies in her newly renovated kitchen, after a run she's also cooked up starting at her house at 5557 Woodmont in Squirrel Hill.  If you feel like bringing more yummy stuff, it will also be welcome.

My task now is to find some way to cover two action-packed runs and two info-packed group confabs in condensed form, so as not to write forever.  Here goes:

Two Sundays ago:
Route:  Starting and ending at the William Penn Hotel, aka Reid's and my residence until we get kicked out.  (We are in love with staying here, having been prepared for it many years ago by Eloise.) Ran through some festival highlights: giant Renoir dancing couple in PPG Place

; 1000-t-shirts dipping into the water at Point State Park; Liberty Ave lined with rainbow "Be Brave" banners; arrival at the fountain at the moment it was turned on; ditto the start of the Man Up Father's Day 10K.  Congratulated Yi on his first Father's Day!  Also on his post-doc at U. Chicago!  Where we will miss him but he promises he'll be back soon.

Last Sunday:
Route:  Strip to Washington's Landing and back. Carefully observed the 5 minute rule!  Which allowed us to meet up with the valiant run-to-the-runners near the start; then over the river and through the woods to the tip of the island and back along the trail to the 14th St. Bridge - all the way drinking in the shimmering Allegheny in the early summer light, trying not to trip over the multitudes of bunnies that are hopping around everywhere. Rewarded finally with abundant warm almond meles (no sharing this time I noticed) and the discovery of Colangelo's almond polenta cake - also catering.

Combined endorsements - it will take you all summer to get through these -
La Hutte Royal in Troy Hill - amazing secret artist project
Sally Hanson's Insta-Dri Top Coat
But also gel with Lynn from Pearl Nail Salon 
The "share garden" on Wilkins Ave. near Beechwood
Vaseline (wrote this down but not sure why)
Cafe Granita - now at La Prima!
Dona Jo Active Wear - Pittsburgh/Brazilian entrepreneur with very cool pants.  But are they pants or tights? Teen vs. Dad showdown.
Watching the World Cup on Univision - free on your computer and the announcers are wild
Kohinoor Indo-Pak Cuisine - super-recommended
Superior Motors - new Braddock restaurant by Kevin Sousa - about to open
Pittsburgh movies:  Out of This Furnace? Actually Valley of Decision with Gregory Peck, vs. Out of The Furnace with Christian Bale
Cures for plantar fasciitis:  the boot and the sock
The Under-the-Counter Composter that can save your marriage

June 22 Run: strip run starting at 21st and liberty parking lot

(Sorry - have had a distracting week and am writing this on my phone so I have no idea how it will look.)  Run is planned to make a circuit of Washington's Landing but anything is possible.  More news and endorsements next week - also photos (hint:  if you have them please send!)

June 15 Run: Omni William Penn Hotel downtown main entrance

Writing this from the Wm. Penn Hotel lobby under one of the three grand chandeliers, everyone is invited to start the run from my temporary (2 weeks) home here, which is awesome!  We'll start outside the front entrance, visit the newly opened Mellon Square across the street, and then run around the 3 Rivers Arts festival grounds, etc.  Speaking of the latter, let's hope the rain holds off.  Coffee in the lobby and perhaps we'll get to visit with our friend Darrell!

Last week at the WB Trailhead,  I am sorry to say that the 5-minute-waiting rule was sadly ignored!  It took Aimee and me a half hour of wandering the leafy trails to finally pick up a trace of that telltale raucous laughter.  But all is forgiven, especially after the sight of Yi, who came to coffee with his beautiful new baby Luke (Boteng in Chinese), about whom he said, unforgettably, "when you hold him, it's like holding the whole world."

Endorsed:
Flu shots, by our infectious disease expert, we are now convinced!
New Squirrel Hill farmers market - Sundays 9-12 in the parking lot between Beacon and Bartlett
The BOB Stroller (I think) tested by Aimee and now Yi
Free or donation yoga classes:

• Tuesdays at 6:30 at Blue Slide Park (Linda)
• Sundays at noon at Schoolhouse Yoga - Strip District location
• Sundays at 9 a.m. at Market Square downtown (LuluLemon)
• Sundays at 9:30 in Highland Park (Yoga Hive)

Namaste everyone!

June 8 Run: Wendy Bennett Trailhead for Schenley Park run

Next Sunday we'll start at the Wendy Bennett Trailhead, at the start of Overlook Drive, foot of the Schenley Oval, and lightfoot it through the leafy trails.  Remember when the road down into the park was pitch dark, forbidding as the entrance to Mordor?  Now it's so bright at 7 it might as well be mid-day.   Tempus fugit, or something.

Anyway, we had a lovely run through CMU, Oakland, and - to tell the truth, I can't recall since there was so much talking.  But whatever it was, it was a success in rounding up the rogue trio that is often missing from the Sunday runs - and now at least some of us know where they go!  Plus we got two pieces of fascinating data on the house across from Tom's:  in 1920 it was mistakenly bombed by anarchists, and today it has two exquisite red Chinese symbols flanking the door expressing double happiness in celebration of a wedding.  Despite trying I cannot think of how to connect those two, but maybe you will.  Other highlights:  we are proud to have a Zumba Instructor, a Professional Cuddler, and a soon-to-be new bride in our midst; our daughters are discovering fascinating things in foreign lands; and never let a new father change a baby's diaper in your kitchen.

Treat coming up at the June 29 run:  Aimee will lead from her house and give us coffee in her new kitchen!  More details forthcoming...

June 1 Run: corner of Aylesboro and Forbes in Squirrel Hill

A bit of nostalgia for olden days leads us to start the run at the foot of Aylesboro near Forbes, where we often began it in the past.  Where did we used to go from there?  There may have been some sketchy scrambling up a hill in Greenfield.  Well, someone will remember something, or else we'll try something completely different.

A holiday weekend means 2 runs, so we obliged, with one classic over three bridges downtown, and one ad hoc through Homewood Cemetery - fresh, green, cool, perfect.
And endorsed:

• Travels through Montana, South Dakota, Idaho
• McCormick & Schmick's (downtown) happy hour - awesome! - an RG HH there now being planned
• Marty's Market food store/restaurant on the strip
• North Park's Bicycle Cafe at The Boathouse
• Pittsburgh Obama School winning the Kelly Award Best Musical for The Wiz!
• Idea to build bike trails along the busways
• Semiannual Boden Sale Saturday May 31 at the Convention Center - think it starts at 9 but it's good to get there early - or else at 3.  Somewhat wild - be warned.

May 25 Run: Market Square downtown for 3B/3R run

Thank you Lainy for the following report and technicolor photo!

Next Sunday let’s meet downtown in Market Square for a 3 Bridges 3 Rivers run.  Monday will meet at Commonplace Coffee at 7:30 for the usual Holiday sleep-in start time.

All of the elements of a classic Pittsburgh run converged on last Sunday’s East End Runners. We had brilliant sunlight along the river trail and two bridges with sweeping views of the river and the city. We experienced the jaw clenching auditory assault of a screeching freight train in one direction, and the high intensity whiz of speeding cars on the Parkway  in the other direction.

May 18 Run: Hot Metal Bridge: start at parking lot at Bates St./2nd Ave.

Next up: Over the Hot Metal to the South Side trails, starting at the parking lot at the foot of Bates St. and 2nd Avenue

This is just a bulletin because I've been knocked out this week by the most miserable respiratory virus ever to inhabit this particular vessel, and am only entering words in between coughs.  But even the nastiest flu meets its end! at which point we'll get back to tales of weddings, travels, jobs, food, houses, books, plumbers, mah jongg, physics, etc. etc.  Can't wait!

May 11 Run: Frick Park from the entrance on Reynolds and S.Homewood

Next week:  Frick Park run from the grand entrance on Reynolds and S. Homewood.  I'm just making this up since we made no decisions, but it seems reasonable, won't interfere with Race for the Cure, and it's the only run that I will run to (from 4 blocks away.)  Someone will come up with a plan, and the park should be in early springtime glory.  Of course, to all you Racers, we're with you in spirit.

Today we covered the Chatham campus, circled around much of Shadyside, and came back up what seemed like endless Hills of the Squirrel.  Theme of this run turned out to be the hip compact passive and super-sustainable houses that are tucked away among the sprawling Edwardian mansions, whose garages are bigger than said houses.  After our heating bills this year, we sort of fell in love with them.

Perhaps it was the happy return of Janet today that inspired us at coffee to go back to one of our favorite topics:  the Pittsburgh Public Schools and our hopes for them.  We sighed over the demise of Schenley (and its fabulous musicals), but were cheered by Sharon's thumbs-up for the Obama IB School.  Another fave subject - wedding locales - also on the docket.  That our group has gone from picking kindergartens to picking mother-of-the-bride outfits is kind of mind-blowing.
Looking forward to reports from Marathoners!

Endorsed:
More reportage on Tiny Houses from none other than Eve Andrews (forgive a doting parent)
New hip bar in East Liberty - from the people behind Bar Marco
Jamie Oliver's (!) Cooking Club at the Obama School  - also related to Bar Marco
Showing up at the County Council voting meeting on Tuesday night (details here) to protest fracking in our parks (thanks Pam and Chris for the alert)

May 4 Run: Back to Commonplace Coffee in Squirrel Hill due to Marathon

Sure doesn't feel like May - what is this, Canada?  Oh, right - if it were, we'd have universal health insurance...

Back to the issue at hand:  since we have numerous Marathon Men and Women in the group, the rest of us  slackers will take off from our default location, Commonplace Coffee on Forbes to parts unknown.

Last week was a Lawrenceville run, led by moi, so I'm fairly biased - but it was awesome.  It included:
a spontaneous visit (suggested by David) to the wild scene of Art All Night in a giant warehouse - admittedly a bit bleary in the morning light despite the sounds of heavy metal in the background
a sylvan trail along the river leading to the requisite bushwhacking across the railroad tracks
rays of sun lighting up the legendary stained glass pictures of Pittsburgh industry in the old bank building on Butler St. (now PNC)
blocks of adorable Victorian row houses, culminating in this mind-blowingly decorated one (see photos)
tour of stunning Allegheny Cemetery with a brand new walkway complete with Bambi and friends
coffee at the super-hip Expresso a Mano where I ran into the chef of E2 getting her morning brew

AND endorsing
the amazingly quick return of Sarah!
documentary Finding Vivian Maier at the Harris
using the rubber bands that supermarkets put on broccoli to exercise your hands and fingers
New York Times tells us yet again that running is the best - this time for your skin
Evolve Mod Hair salon in Lawrenceville

NOT endorsing
edible marijuana
UPMC insurance cutoffs - taking us back to:  Canada!

April 27 Run: Lawrenceville sights starting at Butler and 37th

Well, at least it's not Friday.

Having been captivated by the streets of Lawrenceville last week, I'll lead a run (4.73 miles for you marathon trainees) which will start (and end!) at the Expresso a Mano coffeehouse at Butler and 37th, essentially running around in circles to see them.  We'll hit the trail by the river and much of the cemetery.  And the outside of the most unusually decorated house ever seen.

I imagine there will be a run-to-the-run - so write in if you're organizing -

Last week was Easter Sunday, and a surprising number of us got up before the Easter bunny to run through Homewood Cemetery - where we lamented the sad news of the demise of the public gardens - and Frick Park.   We then grabbed most of the seats at the Coffee Tree, where there were too many conversations to keep track of, but these endorsements surfaced:

• NPR podcasts - including the TED Radio Hour
• Maple Parsnip Cake for Passover or anytime - and Wendy's astounding news that baking powder is kosher for Passover!  I tell you it has rocked my world.
• City of Asylum in the Mexican War Streets
• And most enthusiastically, the Scratch and Dent at Sears, which I now see can be incorporated into Sunday's run - we'll try!

April 20 Run: Commonplace Coffee on Forbes in Squirrel Hill

(Please fire me from this job:  somehow I turn around and it's Friday!)

So next week, after several adventures, we are having a comforting familiar run from Commonplace Coffee on Forbes in Squirrel Hill - since it's Easter and also the 6th day of Passover, maybe we can involve some ecumenical theme.  Also apparently "Look Alike Day" and the beginning of "Organize Your Files Week" so we can throw that into the mix.  Or maybe just bask in the long-lost 70 degree weather. 

Our adventure last Sunday was to circle around: the 40th St. Bridge (with its adorable painted state seal decorations), the many sights of Millvale, the Millvale Rowing Center (Anne Jane probably in the vicinity), the 3 Rivers Heritage Trail, the 31st. St. Bridge, the warehouses of Penn Ave., the Roberto Clemente museum, and the adorable storefronts of Butler Street in Lawrenceville.   Millvale was especially picturesque, as we visited the church with the Maxo Vanka murals (which we couldn't see, but here they are courtesy of internet magic), numerous hippie-style community gardens, a genuine French Bakery, the astounding furniture store across the street

(this photo does no justice at all to the blindingly shiny acrylic contents), the original Pamela's (at which we still have to commit to a future post-run breakfast), Mr. Small's, etc., etc.  Then back to Squirrel Hill for another coffee from which I had to exit before noting the usual words of wisdom - more next time!

April 13 run: Millvale run starting at Butler and 40th St. RiteAid parking lot in Lawrenceville

Next run was inspired by Aimee and will be around and about Millvale, starting in Lawrenceville at the corner of 40th St. and Butler, RiteAid parking lot.  It turns out that the newest contingent of runners has no recollection of a Millvale run - I thought "how could that be?" until I did a blog search and found out that we did it in... 2008, as described then by Anne Jane:
After a sharp but short uphill we arrived at St. Nicholas Croatian Catholic Church where we stopped for an all too short look at the murals:  We continued through Millvale proper where we took in some of the local sites (Mr Smalls , Jean Marc Chatellier's Bakery and the new Pamela's Diner). Although many of us were "knackered" due to the heat and humidity we agreed it was a special run and made plans for a run that would start (and end at) the diner!
Hey, what an idea!  Apparently opens at 8 - we can decide en route, though we'd have to run back to our cars after loading up on pancakes. Or.. run back to the cars first and just drive over.  Let's see.

Last week we were finally all treated to Michele's full-of-surprises run through Frick Park, Regent Square, Edgewood, up to and almost including the back of the K-Mart Parking Lot (one foot in just to get another RG trespass credit.) Previous attempts had been foiled by icy and glacial conditions, but this third time was the charm, in fact totally charming, as it had the miraculous effect of tying parts of the city together in completely unexpected ways through hidden steps and alleys.
Delightful round-up again at the 61B, endorsing:

• Maintenance of brain functioning - a good idea. How? Who knows, but there was this Nun Study...
• Mah Jongg - might help
• Grey hair - does not help
• Pond's Cold Cream - used by our grandmothers
• Penguins who recognize voices
• Using your French Press plus a microwave and a whisk to froth milk
• The people who give out sample delicacies at Costco
• a FREE HAIRCUT (see below) - which at least takes us somewhat back to brain - or head - functions - am a bit worried about the disconnectedness of this list -

Special offer arriving via Michele (whose own haircuts are super-chic:)  
Days available are Sunday and Monday (Sunday is pretty full but there is lots of room on Monday)
South side Salon - 1700 East Carson.  These are one hour appointments for a full haircut - trims are acceptable.
My hairdresser, Jeffrey, needs 30 "models", which means heads of hair.  It is not a fashion show or competition.  Philip Pelusi has a haircutting philosophy called Volumetrics.  The people that will be doing the haircuts are experienced salon owners and other hairdressers from out of town, who will be demonstrating their knowledge of Volumetrics.  It won't be a sales pitch.  He just needs your head!
If you are interested call Tracy at 412-488-6618.  I think the Monday session is at 11:00 AM.

April 6 Run: Return to Regent Square, 61B Cafe on Braddock

(Sorry about that last blank message - fingers slipped)

This Sunday Michele has offered to introduce some surprise features in this Regent Square run starting at the newly discovered 61B cafe on Braddock.  We can only hope that FINALLY we won't be discouraged by a major ice storm.

Last week, my personal example of RG synchronicity at the downtown run: last minute discovery of no car - caught the 71C bus from Pt. Breeze at 6:50 - got off at Smithfield at 7:20 - headed past the Wm. Penn (saw Darryl) - then a pit stop at the Greyhound Bus Station (nice facilities) - over to the underground pathway at the Convention Center - emerging riverside at the exact moment that the group was passing directly across the river (clearly spotted due to Sandy's dayglo jacket) and met halfway across the 7th St. Bridge.  Enough said.

The usual delightful gabfest at La Prima (though only apricot meles available) with the following endorsements:

• New stuff happening with the Eaglets, involving tasty dead mice and fish - am seeing 2 babies at this moment - though evidently there are 3 - adorable
• "Race" exhibit at the Carnegie - will change the way we look at everyone
• Ability of Lainy to, Mountie-like, get her man: one Israeli audiologist in a sea of 7000.
• Romantic Valentine's Day surprise visits

March 30 Run: Back to the Strip - start at parking lot at Liberty and 21st St.

Anticipating the views downtown, the yummy pastries, and maybe a relief from hills, we'll head back to the Strip on Sunday, parking in the usual lot at Liberty and 21st.  Runners-to-the-run: write in to make arrangements.

Last week we returned to our familiar Schenley Park run - still monochromatic which was comforting in a way; next time we're there green things will be starting up all over the place, urging us to get moving already.  Nothing against springtime - but there's something to be said for being allowed to curl up in a blanket a while longer.  Hmmm - that was not really in the runner's spirit - I take it back.

The usual lively chat followed of course with numerous observations/endorsements:

• Joined at the hip - or the hand - or the brain - with our smartphones - reminding me of Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy and its daemons - an awesome read
• The Smithsonian Channel - free and excellent
• All Things Disney, then and now - how did it get to be so powerful for 50+ years?  Do underground tunnels have anything to do with it?
• Standing desks from Varidesk
• Final episode of Downton - esp. the romance downstairs

March 23 Run: Wendy Bennett Trailhead at Schenley Park (see below for map)

With hopes of spring, an earlier sunrise, and not too much mud, we return to the Wendy Bennett Trailhead and Schenley Park for our next run.

We had a refreshing and comfortable run last week through Regent Square and Frick Park, and will give 2 more thumbs up for the 61B Cafe and its provisions.  Which may have had an intoxicating effect since they inspired napkin scribblings so incoherent that I can only transcribe them:

• cellphone addiction
• prayer rooms
• new jobs
• nightmares
• classics
• immigrants
• Las Vegas, Ventriloquist Terry Fator, the Hoover Dam and Pinball Hall of Fame (this I know comes from Lainy)
• Mini M&M boxes that hold quarters perfectly (Teri figured this out)
• The famous day of the RG Ice Storm and Aimee's heroism
• Woman Caves with nail polish, yoga, cappuccinos, and flowered dishes
• radioactive Fiestaware "not safe but cool" according to Jan
• The idea that we should get continuing ed credits for this

March 16 Run: Dunning's Bar and Grill on Braddock Ave., Regent Square

March 9 Run: Strip run from 21st and Liberty parking lot

The almond meles at Colangelo's are calling us again to the Strip, so we'll start at the 21st and Liberty parking lot and head downtown, cross a few bridges, and return to La Prima and inhale those delightful smells - at least I think that was the plan.  (Someone might want to call ahead to avoid the heartbreak of no pastry.)

We skirted the edge of the snowstorm by getting out early and followed a pretty clear path over the Hot Metal and along the river to where the Eagle Has Landed in Hays - and actually saw him or her take off over our heads.  We were pretty sure we made out the nest, though a hazy reality was trumped by the much clearer photo on Pam's phone.  By the time we reached our cars, everyone's hair was frosted.  Back at Commonplace Coffee we settled into the warm interior as the snow swirled outside - talked books, arts, wildlife, travel - how civilized is that?
Endorsed:

• Alice Hoffman's book Museum of Extraordinary Things - which inspired Pam to call our attention to (I think) the Center for PostNatural History in Garfield, featuring things like "atomic age rodents."
• Pittsburgh Ballet Theater's Ketubah
• Jet lag treatments:  Ambien, melatonin, sour cherries (will report on the latter next week.)

March 2 Run: start at parking lot at Bates St./2nd Ave. near Hot Metal Bridge

We'll start at the parking lot at the foot of Bates St. and go over the Hot Metal Bridge and check out the state of the trails on the other side - that will determine which way we go - though I admit to wanting to visit the eagles nest again (towards Sandcastle) now that they have produced another egg - come on, in this weather - those birds are heroic!  Not sure of coffee location.

Last week with the surfaces finally clear we had a nice run based on the standard weekday route - Squirrel Hill, golf course, CMU, Oakland, back to Commonplace, proving there is no place like home.  Except maybe - Tahiti is sounding good right now.  Conversation turned towards career and job changes - leading to perhaps a super endorsement of the revelatory Women don't ask - read it and don't weep - ask!

Feb. 16 Run: Coffee Tree on Walnut Street in Shadyside

Sent in by Elaine yesterday:

We had a delightful, albeit icy, run this morning. From Biddle’s Escape we took the back roads through Wilkinsburg into Homewood and past some grand homes throughout Point Breeze. Let’s just say that we were not nearly as graceful on the ice as the Olympic Skaters seem to be. Let’s hope for a bit of a melt before we head out next Sunday….when we meet in Shadyside at the Coffee Tree. We’ll do a loop taking in some of the new construction/development projects in East Liberty/Friendship/Bloomfield.

Feb. 9 Run: starts at Biddle's Escape at 401 Biddle Ave. (off of Braddock)

Next Sunday we go back to the adorable Biddle's Escape cafe (map), and will undoubtedly run around the Wilkinsburg-Swissvale-Regent Square area, though exactly how has yet to be determined.  Any ideas will be gratefully entertained.

As I am on the DL for a bit, I can't report on last week's run except to say, there were an amazing number of brave runners willing to endure the miserable freezing drizzle outside, even more than were cozily and chattily gathered in the 61C (pictured) by the time I got there.  Talk of trains, taxis, pets, and the Steel City Road Runners.  A few endorsements:

• Books: In the Shadow of the Banyan; Five Days at Memorial: Life and Death in a Story-Ravaged Hospital
• Our own Roberto Clemente Museum
• Uber taxis
• The concept of the "single-serving friendship" - when you meet someone on a train or plane, and... that's it.
• Late addition (discovered by Reid) - Webcam on the eagle's nest in Hays that we've visited at least twice now. Talk about enduring the freezing drizzle!)

Feb. 2 Run: 61C cafe, corner of Murray and Bartlett, Squirrel Hill

We're fans of the franchise - after two weeks at the 61B, we're heading back to the 61C cafe on Murray and Bartlett (around the corner from Commonplace) and will probably do a variation of the Bird Run, named for some birds who are no longer there.  In this way we are continuing the cherished Pittsburgh tradition of following "things that are not there anymore."

Bravely, last Sunday Virginia and Michele led the same surprise-filled Regent Square run, but due to the cold and snow, there was another small turnout.  So we'll rerun this run in the spring when there will be less weather discouragement.  The cafe is definitely cozy spot and conducive to long juicy chats.  And this time we noticed the luscious-looking range of baked goods.  Wendy offered us  captivating tales of their son's off-the-charts NY/NJ wedding - which we realized was the last in a series for us, to be followed by a baby series - knitters, start your needles!

Endorsements!
Wild Swans - memoir of 3 generations of Chinese women during the Cultural Revolution
The Bata Shoe Museum in Toronto
An alternative to Spanx (which are dangerous!) - Costco's Tummy-Toning Tanks, which are currently out of stock but Michele will see to it they return soon, along with more hand warmers
AND - send this out to all your friends - the Kosher Love Song from the Bennett/Coulson wedding, lyrics by David, sung by the extremely handsome groom.

Jan. 26 Run: repeat of last week: corner of S. Braddock and Hutchinson in Regent Square

The icy streets, barbarous cold, special events, and who knows what else kept almost everyone away from the run last week, which was so new and clever that we just have to do it again next week so more people can experience it.  So we're meeting in Regent Square at S. Braddock and Hutchinson, and will gather at the new 61B cafe afterwards.

It was just a hardy threesome that made the trek, leaders Virginia and Michele and the intrepid Sarah.  I wimped out myself and made a "run to the coffee" (which has its charms.)  Mum's the word on the run, so it will be a surprise next time.  Ensconced in the cozy new 61B, such is the effervescence of the RG that even the four of us could easily come up with some great endorsements:

• Superior Motors - new community restaurant in Braddock, brainchild of chef Kevin Sousa, to open in 2015, having raised 1/3 million $$ from Kickstarter in 33 days.
• Episode on This American Life about a very special "hold" music, called Opus #1.
• Do NOT miss, if you are not one of the 20+ million people who have listened/watched so far, Pharell Williams' 24 Hours of Happy - so mesmerizing and contagious, you will also dance in the street.