Jul 24 Run: CommonPlace Coffee in Squirrel Hill

 Thanks to Paul the Brit for taking up scribe's duty while I was rowing away in Boston:

Next week we will do something involving the cars. PtB will lead. Meet at The Common Place. And in an unusually organized fit we planned the week after's run which will be something across the Allegheny around Washington's Landing/boat houses ???? to catch Aimee's husband emerging majestically, from the river to do stage 2 of the triathlon. Not sure he will be wearing a bikini, singing about mango trees, so sadly Sean Connery is unlikely to be present.

Not sure who agreed to do the writing but words that spring to mind are:

 

Welcome to Sarah Ross our newest member.

 

The hat of birthdays was worn by PtB and passed on to Sarah who's birthday is SOON but not as SOON as Dr P's (Pam) who won't be with us next week.

 

Wonderful clear day and views of the downtown and rivers from the dizzy heights of Greenfield. Aimee did a sterling job of guiding us round hills (but not too many to be honest) to catch these views frequently. And then to finish off with some secret city steps.

 

We saw a cutie house where Teri grew up. Tom may also have grown up in Greenfield but I missed that bit. Tom did tell us a tale of the Pittsburgh defenders setting up artillery bases high up on Bigelow in case General Lee paid a visit. I am not up on my american history so forgive me. I suspect General Lee took one look at the hills (and in those days the lack of IKEA or Crate and Barrel) and went off somewhere flatter.

 

Talk at coffee was of..... I arrived a little later with Karen so fill in the blanks but the Race Around the Square was mentioned, the Great Race, Harry Potter and the costume of lipliner (Teri took her daughter's to the showing at midnight and everyone was in costume). A spontaneous, minimalist affair that Jean Muir would have approved of, and Teri's daughter's were envied of.

 

That is all I can remember.

 

I am pretty certain this is it:

 

http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/41931450

 

 

July 17 run - from Wendy Bennett Trailhead in Schenley Park through Greenfield

Next Sunday is a Greenfield run led by Aimee, starting at the Wendy Bennett Trailhead.

This Sunday’s run gave a bleakly hot summer day a cool and refreshing start at least. Wendy and I, leading from behind much of the way in time-honored tradition, brought our sizeable group down a newish cool and shady path through Frick Park, zigzagged by cute hopping bunnies and misty slanted rays of sun. We crossed over Commercial St., and followed another newish path to the Monongahela dock where a day of fishing and beer apparently starts early. Nobody defected at that point however. Detour to adorable Duck Hollow and an analysis of its tiny ceramic animal shrine in relation to the Blessed Mother one. Climbed the killer hill back up to Summerset, where we marveled at its resemblance to a set for The Truman Show. We considered leaping over the gate into the pool, the second time on the run we were almost seduced into our habitual brush with the law, the first being the earthmoving equipment whose gigantic seats and shovels were just perfect photo ops. Oh well - maybe next time. Coffee was delightful as usual enhanced by a super pumpkin bread made by Carrie (maybe this is the one) and talk of summer weekends away. This led to endorsements: The Cambridge Suites in Torontowhich provides free bicycles, and Jeni’s ice cream in Columbus which is also available at ruinous (but maybe worth it) expense at Whole Foods.

Jul 10th Run: Blue slide playground for a Duck Hollow run

 Thanks to Wendy for leading next week's run as well as her recounting of the holiday runs:

 

Roye and I will co-lead from the Blue slide playground. We'll head thru Frick Park down to Commercial and across Nine Mile Run to Duck Hollow. 

Heads up to runners: It might be a somewhat longer than usual  route.

It was an especially steamy couple of runs, Sunday downtown over bridges and Monday locally thru Murdoch Farms. Both outings concluded with Commonplace Coffee gabfests with subjects ranging from Haikus for Jews, why there is no Nobel Prize award for math, why it's not a good idea to wear a Pirates cap in Red Sox country, the difficulties of searching for alcohol on an early holiday morning and guilty pleasure books like Game of Thrones. We welcomed Bud and Susan Hunt at the Monday run and PtB shared some scrumptiously patriotic cherry/white choc chip/blueberry shortbreads, representing her maiden voyage as a cookie baker. Believe it or not! 

http://jewishjokes.tripod.com/haikus4jews.htm 

http://nobelprizes.com/nobel/why_no_math.html

http://www.foodster.net/2011/07/july-4th-cookies.html#tp

http://www.amazon.com/Game-Thrones-Song-Fire-Book/dp/0553573403

July 4th Run: Commonplace Coffee at 7:30AM

After consulting with PTB we arbitrarily decided to go with the usual Holiday Run - so meet at Commonplace Coffee in Squirrel Hill at 7:30AM and participate in a run chosen by the majority of attendees in celebration of the democratic process.

July 3rd Run: PPG Place, July 4th Run TBD

Thanks to Elaine Mormer for capturing this past Sunday's run:

We decided to embrace the fourth of july festivities and Regatta by taking in River views of the preparations. ….Meet at PPG place for a rivers and bridges run, with views of the sand sculpture at Point Park.

Sunday’s run took a leafy course skimming the upper trails of Frick Park. We visited a robust tree planted by Iain in the Frick Park basin. The group was relatively small, but boldly faced the wooded hilly trails for a 5 mile loop back to coffee.

Thanks to Paula tb for mapping the route…http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/38891580

Watch this space for information on a July 4th run.

Jun 26 Run: CommonPlace Coffee

After two "designer" runs, next week will be local. Meet at the CommonPlace Coffee shop for what will likely be a Frick Park run.

Today we ran on the newest portion of the trail connecting Pittsburgh and Washington D.C. It was classic Pittsburgh: steep wooded hill on one side, on the other a little more greenery, train tracks, the river and Steel Mills on the far bank - that Western PA mix of nature and industry that surrounds us. We ended up on the backside of Kennywood, looking at the abstract sculpture that two of the roller coasters make and wondering if we could easily sneak into the park (we did not).

More iPhone chat at coffee, along with all the other usual diverse topics such as reading cookbooks on the beach.

Jun 19 Run: Lowe's in Waterfront

Meet at Lowe's in the Waterfront for a run somewhere near there that may or may not include Kennywood (discussion over coffee was raucous and I did not catch all the details!). Park in the Lowe's parking lot but close to the road not the store.

Run to the run: 6:15AM at the CommonPlace Coffee Shop in Squirrel Hill.

It must be summer:

• Many people were there
• We hosted out of town guests both at the run and after
• We diverted from the original run plan (a sign of vacation laxness creeping in)
• It was hot and humid
• We saw an exotic flower in Panther Hollow
• We took up all of CommonPlace's outdoor seating and more (it was a little street party)
• Great enthusiasm was showered on a father and daughter who were promoting an Urban Chicken Coop tour 
• Two members have children graduating from high-school today (congratulations Wendy and Virginia)
• Map of the challenging and impromptu run: http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/37279906

News of Note:

Our own Virginia Lynn writing in the Post Gazette: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11162/1152816-109.stm

Texture Contemporary Ballet Company Performances: July 8th @ 8pm, July 9th @ 2pm and July 9th @ 8pm

Get tickets at: http://www.showclix.com/search/Texture%20Contemporary%20Ballet

This is the group my son, Edward, will be dancing with.

June 12 run: Schenley Park starting at Wendy Bennett Trailhead

Next week’s run through the leafy environs of Schenley Park, starting at the Wendy Bennett Trailhead (entrance to Schenley Park below the Oval).

So gather round to hear the Legend of the Founding Mothers! Handed down to us today by Elaine, who conferred with her fellow FM, Susie Hall, on Friday night, and hereby confirmed: It was a day in 1992 at the Toy Lending Library, when she, Susie, and Bobbie K. decided to overcome the obstacles to running presented by their young families, and pledged to head out every Sunday morning at 7 a.m.– and soon thereafter were joined by another Susan H., and then Elena, and then Tom, and ultimately… everyone else. And so it began, the Running Group, soon to reach its 20th anniversary! We need to start planning an event: direct flight to Paris, anyone?

That history culminated a delightful though slightly muggy run through the strip, over to Herr’s Island and back, where we ran by, among other things, a leaping woodchuck/groundhog (not sure), the cheery blue and yellow Gran Chapiteau of Cirque de Soleil, and the new path along the river past the Convention Center – at which point we glanced up beyond the eerily dark underground water path to catch sight of more cheery blue and yellow - the Megabus making its stop.

Coffee at La Prima was in fact primo due to the conjunction of: lots of us, coffee aromas, balmy outdoor temperature, and fresh out of the oven meles. And, of course, the Legend.

Endorsements:
 Glass blowing classes at the Pittsburgh Glass Center: http://www.pittsburghglasscenter.org/classes/classes-page.aspx
 Trader Jack’s Flea Market in Bridgeville: http://traderjacksfleamarket.net/ - they have plants! But according to many of us, it is practically in West Virginia.
 Rosemary olive oil cake – not sure which recipe was referred to but this one looks pretty good! http://www.101cookbooks.com/archives/rosemary-olive-oil-cake-recipe.html

Jun 5 Run: 21st and Penn for a Strip Run

Meet at the Liberty Commons Parking lot at 21st and Penn for what should be a fun run in the Strip. The section of the trail by the convention center is complete and it is the last day that the big Cirque du Soleil tent will be up so lots to see. I am sad I won't be there (first sprint race of the season) so take good notes!

Sunday's run was a fine one - through Frick Park, the community gardens and the cemetery. The cemetery was all decked out for memorial day making the run holiday appropriate. We lingered long over coffee feeling those first drowsy days of summer approaching. The anticipation of vacation dies hard even after years of being away from school.

Some recommendations for area nurseries:

Brenkles Farm and Green Houses in Troy Hille: http://www.brenckle.com/

Amazing variety of annuals, perennials and vegetables spread out over lots of green houses. The plants are very healthy and the prices reasonable. Plus it is worth the little drive to get there - a bit of the country in the city!

McTighes Nursery in Glenshaw (up route 8) - it has a beer distributor attached so you can kill two errands at the same time!

May 29, 30 Runs: Commonplace Coffee

With all this cool, wet weather it is difficult to believe that next weekend is the Memorial Day Holiday. Since many people will be traveling we will save all the interesting runs for later in the summer: meet at Commonplace Coffee on both days for close to home runs.
On holidays we let everyone sleep in so Monday meet at 7:30AM.


As usual, Tom lead us on a thoughtfully planned run - this one was in retaliation for the stadium run that never happened  - baseball was the link that tied the various stops. While it was outrageously hilly, it did mean that we could pause for moments to check out the view or the point of interest. Plus we found some new hidden parts of Oakland that were worth the climb.  Here is the route from PtB:
http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/35068694
As she said it seemed a lot longer than 4 miles!

Jan's Chiropractor, Bill Marino, stopped by for coffee. He is a runner and is recommended by Jan so if you are looking for this kind of help check him out at 412.421.0783.

New iPhone tip for actually closing applications you don't want running in the background (these would be the ones you don't use often):
Removing the Application from the Recents List There's actually a much simpler approach for quitting apps, and that's to use your recent app list. Double-click the home button to display the recently accessed applications. Press and hold any of the icons shown, then navigate to the application you want to quit and tap the red circled minus button. This sends a signal to the application in question that allows it to quit. The application will be re-added to the recents list the next time you launch it.

May 22 Run: Phipps for a Tom's Special

Meet at Phipps for one of Tom's specialty runs - or at least something mildly interesting.

I got this quick report from Pam Murray about today's run:
we four did the Chatam drizzle to the rock band
Which sounds both cryptic and interesting!


For those of you running the 1/2 marathon - I looked very hard at 32nd and Liberty and missed most of you (I did however see many rowers - strange)! I guess this is not surprising given the amazing number of people that were running at the 2 mile mark. It was inspiring and humbling to watch those waves of people stream by. I hope you all had the race you wished for.

May 15 Run: CommonPlace or something else

The regular run will meet at the CommonPlace coffee shop for a group selected run.  

Note that it will be Marathon Sunday and many in the group are participating. A few of us (well two of us) were thinking about ways we could intercept the 1/2 marathon and cheer everyone on. Unfortunately the 1/2 marathon starts at 7AM making it difficult to run to the course and leave at the regular time. So if you are up for an adventure and an earlier start, meet at the Morewood street parking lot at CMU (one of the few places you can drive to and still be able to get back to the East End) at 6:30AM and we will run down to 32nd and Liberty. This is the 2 mile mark so everyone will be perky.  It will be about 5 miles from start to finish but of course the return will be all up hill :-(. Please send email to me (Anne Jane: annejane@gmail.com) if you think you will be there.

The Race for the Cure was last Sunday so only 5 of us showed up for a quieter but still supportive run. We took a pleasant loop hitting many Squirrel high points (literally - there were lots of hills!), including Frick Park and the cemetery. It really was a lovely spring run with a pleasant chat over coffee where we only talked about 1 iPhone app.

May 8 Run: CommonPlace Coffee or Race for the Cure

This coming Sunday, Mother's Day, those not running in the Race for the Cure will meet at our default event location, CommonPlace Coffee for a "whatever we choose" run.


While today was not meant to be an adventure run it turned into one. It started out innocently enough, we ran through Squirrel Hill all decked out for spring and down into Panther Hollow to Greenfield. As always we blithely ignored the "Stairs Closed" sign at the foot of the very long staircase (good exercise for the quads and butt) up the hill to St. Rosalia's Academy. About 1/2 way there were no more stairs! Granted the steps that had been there had some gaps but they were still claimable. Faced with retracing our route (yuck) or moving forward, this intrepid band scaled the very steep hill-side studded with glass with not one injury or pulled muscle. Look for a link to photos commemorating the climb.


Sharon, PtB and Iain joined us for the usual rowdy coffee hour. Discussion topics ranged from the Royal Wedding to a recommendation for the very long series of novels, Game of Thrones: enough reading (or listening) to last a long time.


Finally a reminder that Sunday, May 15 is the Pittsburgh Marathon. Quite a few of the members are running some or all of it. 

May 1 Run: CommonPlace for a Panther Hollow Greenfield Run

Meet at CommonPlace Coffee in Squirrel Hill for a longish run through Panther Hollow, Greenfield lower and upper (we will climb those fun steps by St. Rosalia's) - our first run of May!

We dithered around enough this morning that the rain stopped by the time we finally set out, pleasing those who had considered going home and running later (or not). It was a Chatham, dead-end, all uphill, really spring run. Yes we ran through Chatham and explored several dead-ends including one above 5th Ave where we stopped to admire the Mansion at Maple Heights. We ran back up lovely Murray Hill Ave, deciding beauty trumped our desire for a more gradual up-hill route. Trees are now in full flower and we even spied a dogwood starting to bloom. It was an appropriate run to welcome spring.

CommonPlace was closed for Easter so we once again invaded the Sunday morning quiet at Coffee Tree. At one point there were at least 3 discussions happening at one time several across the tables - amazing! 

In a blatant display of parental pride I wanted to let the group know that my son Edward will be here this summer to dance with Texture Contemporary Ballet Company. This is a summer company comprised of current and former dancers at Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre as well as  former and current PBT grad students several of whom are now dancing professionally with other companies around the US. They will be performing July 8,9 at the New Hazelett Theater on the North side. They don't have a website but you can find them on Facebook. I will send out more information as the time gets closer.

April 24 (Easter Sunday) run: Commonplace Coffee to start

Next up: April 24, Easter Sunday – will start at Commonplace Coffee and go somewhere, depending.

Today’s running weather was like Baby Bear’s porridge – not too cold, not too hot – and the route took us from Pt. Breeze to Regent Square – almost close enough to Virginia’s house to smell the coffee – and then back again through Frick Park and the cemetery, where the new leaves are just a green haze in the distance. Continued grumbling was overheard regarding the failure several weeks ago to circle PNC Park on Opening Day – it’s clear it won’t stop until we correct this outrage - and some more, though not nearly as much as you would expect, on the seemingly endless uphill stretches. We asked group scientist Jan how it is possible to go up so much more than down, and she assured us that Pittsburgh geological conditions are unique in this regard. However, she was adamant on the point of handwriting analysis, which is COMPLETELY unscientific. By the time we got to that, we had settled down to coffee, where – probably to make up for last week – iPhones were laid down on the table like revolvers in a John Wayne film, and the tip of the week is: use some app (ask Aimee) to let you read .pdf’s on it, and then transfer all your recipes! You can also see the Taylor Allderdice yearbook for Max’s Dad’s class (he is 95) from cover to cover. BUT can you watch Breaking Bad on it? More grumbling surfaced about how you can’t do anything these days that doesn’t involve Facebook or Groupon – but then it became clear that the latter was instrumental in getting some of our runners into rowing, about which they are pretty psyched, so hey, it’s not all bad. Just so they don’t jump ship!

Apr 17 Run: Entrance to Frick Park at Reynolds and S. Homewood

Hoping that the warm weather brings out the leaves, we will run in Frick Park next week. Meet at the entrance across from the Frick Art Museum at the junction of Reynolds and Homewood Avenues.

Today felt like the first official Spring run of 2011. There was a slight mist on the river, the air felt milder and daffodils were blooming along the S. Side trail - it was a welcome change after what seemed like endless gray days. We ran a big loop along the Mon: down on the Jail Trail, across the Smithfield Street Bridge, up the S. Side Trail and then back across the Hot Metal Bridge - a route full of scenic views and interesting sites. We even raced (well race might be too strong a word) a barge up the Mon and beat it before we had to turn off.

As a sign that Spring has come, talk at coffee included gardening but also consignment stores. Wendy recommended: Designer Days Boutique on Ellsworth Ave. And because we can't go too long without discussing iPhones, Teri captured our attention on the run with her experiences at an iPhone workshop at the Apple Store.

Today's route, thanks to PtBrit:

 

http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/31385554

 

April 10 Run: Jail Trail/South Side from Hot Metal Bridge/2nd Ave. side

Meet at the parking lot near the Hot Metal Bridge - 2nd Ave. side - for a Jail Trail/South Side run. Coffee place TBD - Big Dog on Sarah St.?

It was a grey day later on today, but not for our valiant and irrepressible band (many of whom awesomely started in Squirrel Hill) who got the benefit of a glowing sunrise over misty rivers from three (count 'em!) bridges this morning. This had apparently been billed as an Opening Day run, and since we only got a distant glimpse of PNC Park, we heard some grumbling from Tom about being brought to this run under false pretenses. We hope there will be no legal action. Speaking of which, we once more were guilty of flouting the law as we slinked past and clambered over various barriers trying to reach Pt. State Park but were turned back as the City Works employee drove his truck directly at us making threatening hand gestures. This did allow us to give a second greeting to a friendly man camped out overnight on the overpass - he was rather forgiving of our disturbing him.
Other things of note: three spots where we were provided with some decent party music; patterned river sludge on the Mon Wharf; special appearances of Virginia's lovely daughter Abby and of Sharon who is in between trips to Africa. And nobody looked at their iPhone during coffee!

Now this from our foreign correspondent: PtB:

"For Tom we were looking at flotsam and jetsam and there is a difference - a legal difference - so Tom worthy: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flotsam_and_jetsam

And I came across a recipe for a British fruit jelly which is different to a jam but reminded me of that great evening at Wendy's when we were "canning". And what to do with windfall apples. Rose Prince wrote a great book called /The New English Kitchen/ which looks at what we buy, cook etc and being more careful, having less leftovers, what to do with the leftovers, buying different things to create good meals, with less money etc. So a recipe specifically for windfall in the book she talks of adding a teaspoon of chili to one jar for with sausages (ask Paula & Jonathan about good British Bangers). Or spreading the basic jam with blue cheese in a sandwich....mmmmm: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/foodanddrink/recipes/3346058/Cooking-with-apples-I-demand-a-windfall-tax.html#
Please don't judge me by the google-pages I find.... The Telegraph is the most right wing of British papers but c'est la vie - apples is apples."

Apr 3 Run: PPG Place for Three Bridges Run

In celebration of baseball's opening day, meet at the Tomb of the Unknown Bowler (the plaza at PPG) for a run around downtown that will pass the stadium and as the title says cross three bridges.

Run to the Run starting at 6:15AM at Phipps - it's all downhill to downtown.

It was not exactly spring weather but it was sunny and fairly dry making us glad to have an excuse to be out on such a lovely morning. We ran through Schenley Park and at several points happen to see the very place, Oakland Square, we stood last week looking out over the pond. In fact because of the lack of leaves we often were looking at where we had been or where we were going - I wish life was that clear!

I am not sure if it is just me but our coffee gatherings have been particularly enjoyable these past weeks. Perhaps it is the CommonPlace vibe, the shared bake goods, or the larger than usual group that showed up today but the rich conversations make it difficult to leave and get on with the day.

Thanks for Paula the Brit, who rejoined after her travels, for the route map:

 

http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/30414336

Mar 27 Run: Wendy Bennett Trail Head

We will look for signs of spring in Schenley Park next week - meet at the Wendy Bennett Trail Head  (aka entrance to Schenley Park below the Oval) at the corner of Bartlett and the Boulevard.

People who would like to run to the run and a little more should meet at CommonPlace Coffee at 6:15AM.

Aimee led us on a tour of North Oakland this morning that included places we had been before but not in that combination. We took a longer look at Oakland Square than usual and for the first time noticed it looked out onto Panther Hollow. Then on to the Parkway Shrine, which we have not visited for a while. It looks like it has been lately renovated with new benches and a little grotto. All of this was tied together with a few jaunts into Schenley Park.  Aimee used the neat iPhone App from MapMyRun to track it so you can see our exact route here:
Here is the route. It starts at my house, so the group run part would be 0.5 miles less. Next time I'll start it from the coffee shop.
I thought you'd like this:
Click here


Those that were left after this lovely but longish run, enjoyed a leisurely coffee which included an iPhone app session - something that is becoming a regular part of our discussions. The fear is we might abandon conversation and just check out our phones - not really! But it is fun to find new tools. Along with the afore mentioned MapMyRun app, two food apps were recommended: Cake Love and Mark Bittman's app.

Mar 20 Run: CommonPlace Coffee for a S. Oakland Run

Next week Aimee will lead us on a new run that will include the Parkway Shrine, Oakland Square AND Schenley Park - sounds great, yes?

The time change got in the way of several people's run this morning, leaving Wendy to run solo to the S. Side and shiver while she waited for 5 more of us to show up. With a few clothing additions, Wendy was good to go and we had a calming run along the river-side trail past UPMC, toward Sandcastle. I think it was the lack of other runners, the flat trail and silvery/gray/brown landscape that felt soothing. Roye and I saw and heard seagulls, a summer sound in a winter scene...

Some of the late sleepers joined for coffee and chat. Today's topics ranged from iPhone apps, dress size expansion, personal shoppers, gift giving strategies (or how to get what you want) and a place to stay on the Island of Vieques where we all immediately wanted to go: Sea Gate Hotel.

Mar 13 Run: Hot Metal Bridge for a S. Side Trail Run - Again

*Editing this note to remind everyone that this Sunday starts Daylight Savings Time. Don't forget to "Spring ahead" or you will miss the run (but get a little extra sleep)!

Since the weather kept almost all be 3 hardy souls (who opted out also) from showing up for the run today we will do a repeat - but hopefully not the rain/hail/snow part. So meet at the parking lot next to the Hot Metal Bridge (on the downtown side). The entrance to the lot is at the intersection of Bates and Second Ave.

There will be a run to the run starting at Common Place Coffee at 6:15am.

I did manage a run in the snow a little later in the morning and saw 11 deer in the cemetery - amazing.

March 6 Run: Hot Metal Bridge for a run down the trail to Sandcastle

Hopefully the trails will remain clear next Sunday as we head away from town on the South Side Trail. With no leaves on the trees it should provide many good views of the river. Meet at the parking lot next to the Hot Metal Bridge (on the downtown side). The entrance is at the intersection of Bates and Second Ave.

There will be a run to the run starting at Common Place Coffee at 6:15am.

While I was not on the run today, I did meet up with the group for coffee and heard it was good, as always - the group did the "bird run" meaning lots of hills. Most impressive were the runners that met at 6:15 to do additional miles! As a treat, Paula the Brit brought English digestive biscuits to coffee - the chocolate kind - yum!

Feb 27 Run: Commonplace Coffee - unless someone has a better idea

We were all so stuffed on pastry and coffee this morning that no run was set for next week. Given that, I am going with the default meeting place from which we could go to the cemetary, Chatham, Frick Park or any number of East end destinations. After several weeks of designer runs, it might be nice to stay close to home, so meet at Commonplace Coffee in Squirrel Hill. Of course, if someone has another run they want to lead please feel free to send mail - we can be flexible.

We had a good group and a nice morning for the "President's Day" Loop - the upstream version of our downtown run. While there are no big buildings and dramatic vistas - this run has its own points of interest - notably:  the nice bit of new trail along the channel, a chance to see both TRRA boat houses, the 40th Street bridge*, and Butler Street in Lawrenceville. Of course the very best part of any run that starts in the Strip is the coffee and Meles at La Prima. Today we hung around salivating as we waited for the pastries to come out of the oven and they were worth every minute!

* Here is the bit about the seals:
The balustrade which runs the length of the bridge includes metal reliefs of the Great Seal of each of the 13 original United States plus the County of Allegheny. Each measures approximately 2 ft wide by 3 ft high. They appear in the following order (north to south): Allegheny County, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia. This order is roughly the same order as the states appear in the map from north to south, with Allegheny County providing a divider to restart the series. The series repeats just over 10 times per side with a total of 290 seals on the bridge. Photos

And here is the map of the 5.3 mile run:
http://www.mapmyrun.com/view_route?r=477129821334839961

Feb 20 Run: Parking Lot at 21st & Liberty for a Presidents' Day Run

Meet at the parking lot at 21st and Liberty Ave in the Strip for the usual Strip Loop which includes crossing onto Washington's Landing or maybe we will head up the the 40th St Bridge which actually is the Washington's crossing bridge (check out the link) - you get the idea. Wherever we run we will end up at La Prima for coffee and pastries.

There will be a run to the run starting at Common Place Coffee at 6:00 AM (previous starting times have not been early enough).

Note that I have also finally created a googlegroup for this list. This will make it easier to manage and also preserve the privacy of group member's email addresses. You can use the group name to send email to everyone in the group:eerunners@googlegroups.com

Today's run was full of small treasures from the Center for Imagination and other interesting Garfield sites to the musical cherubs on the restored fountain in Mellon Park. It helped that the weather was comparatively mild and the pavements were mostly clear. Thanks to Roye for introducing us to yet more of our city's fascinating neighborhoods.

I think that our coffee sessions are starting to last longer than the runs themselves (and the runs are not getting shorter) - which is a real treat. As always the topics were far ranging and I was at only one end of the table.  Here are links to some of the information shared:

On the subject of how do you organize the notes you collect at work - online or on paper, Pam Murray introduced us to these notebooks:

Circa Notebooks:

http://www.levenger.com/pagetemplates/navigation/prdpreview.asp?params=category=326-339|level=2-3

http://www.diyplanner.com/node/2751

Sharon, who is cautiously coming back from an injury, joined us for coffee with a "right-sized" bag from Baggallini that she bought at Newmans but you can also order them from Amazon:

Baggallini

http://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&keywords=baggallini&tag=googhydr-20&index=apparel&hvadid=4928220417&ref=pd_sl_62vwd4rloo_e

Two recommended Audrey Tautou movies:

Priceless

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0482088/

Cooco Before Channel

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1035736/

While we were discussing movies this podcast was recommended even though they did not like "The King's Speech":

Slate's Culture GabFest

http://www.slate.com/id/2119317/

Feb 13 Run: Coffee Tree in Bakery Square for a run to the Center for Imagination

Roye will lead us on a Penn Ave run that takes us to/by the Center for Imagination. Meet at the Coffee Tree in Bakery Square for this intriguing sounding run.

While we may look innocuous, our running group seems to be on a crime spree. This time we were stopped while looking at the new performance space next to Heinz Field. Who knew that this was the parking lot where many of the Steelers and city officials left their cars while they were in Dallas, or that a group of people posing as runners (which we kind of do) had stolen 16 cars last week from a near-by lot?! The security person, driving a bright gold car and in Steeler garb, said the security cameras had picked us up as we ran around Heinz Field. Somehow I can't imagine that we looked suspicious but maybe those other car thieves we imitating us. This incident just added to the general hilarity of today's run for which many turned out in Steeler colors. There were a few "Go Steelers" moments and even someone blowing what looked like a mini-air horn as we toured around downtown looking for Super Bowl related sites. We repeated the photo from 2 years ago in front of the Steeler Tree in the Courthouse courtyard. I admit a few of us shrunk down a little when a security guard approached even though the gates were wide open. My personal favorite was the big dinosaur in front of the Art Institute which had a piece of cheese in his mouth and Troy Polamalu hair. 

A large number of runners, including Tom! returned to CommonPlace for coffee, disrupting the quiet but having a great time. Wendy's friend Anat was in town, making the run and coffee a little more special. It was a good start to a gray Sunday in February.

To view Go Stillerz!, follow the link below:
http://www.mapmyrun.com/view_route?r=972129700823711388

Feb 6th Run: PPG Place for a Steelers Run!

A busy (but not bad) week for me kept me close to home on Sunday but others had a good but challenging run by the Waterfront followed by a birthday breakfast. Here is Roye's report:

Thank you to Jan who led with verve and cheerfulness (and in fact it really wasn't as hard as it sounds, especially as we were distracted the whole time by stunning wintry river vistas) and who shared a lovely birthday brunch that has changed my mind about the virtues of champagne first thing in the morning. 
And yes - OF COURSE A STEELERS RUN  next week!  What else could we possibly do?  Heinz field must be circled.  The plan was to meet at the ice rink, aka the tomb of the unknown bowler, at PPG and go from there.  Not sure about the RTR.

Jan 30 Run: Meet at IHOP on Brown's Hill Road

With a busy and demanding week coming up I chose to run local but Elaine Mormer sent this stellar write-up:

Next week we get to watch Jan wear the birthday hat! We will meet at the iHop on Brown’s Hill road and the birthday girl will lead a run involving the Waterfront, trails, and Homestead. Coffee and goodies at Jan’s house after the run.

Today’s run included a wintry chill of nearly arctic proportions. Despite the low temperature, a hearty group of intrepid runners followed Virginia along the snow covered trails of Frick Park. The pallid surroundings of the park offered ashen vistas across the hollow, against the backdrop of an icy sky.  We warmed up back at Common Place for the usual coffee and chat.

Jan 16 Run:Tazza D'Oro for a Highland Park Run

Next Sunday meet at Tazza D'Oro for a run created by Joanne (the last one she took us on was quite remarkable).  Bring some $$ to buy luscious cinnamon rolls and coffee at Tazza D'Oro.

One thing I learned about "leading" a run, it is difficult to be as attentive to my surroundings as I usually am. Still, despite the cold, it was a nice tour of the East End. It included my favorite cemetery, the odd dead-end on Meade street and thanks to Pam Murray a look at the new Burg Bees' Apiary. Thanks for all the birthday wishes - it was certainly a memorable way to start the day!

Jan 9 Run: Linden School for an easy East End Run

Next Sunday meet at Linden School for a leisurely tour of the East End. I am hoping the weather will be as nice as today's!

I was sweating with fellow rowers this morning and so did not run with the group. I am sure whatever route was chosen it was interesting and certainly the company would have been entertaining!

For all those new runners who have been added to the list during these last months here is a link to our blog: http://eastendrunners.blogspot.com/

All the runs are posted there as well as an FAQ page: http://eastendrunners.blogspot.com/2007/11/east-end-runners-faq.html

Jan 2 Run: Common Place Coffee, Jan 1 Run: same place at 7:30 AM

Continuing the holiday run theme, all runs will start from Common Place Coffee. The New Year's Day run will start at 7:30 AM so everyone can sleep in ;-)

A very few of us had a lovely snowy Christmas run through Homewood Cemetery on Saturday, complete with deer - it was a beautiful morning. Today a different few people showed up for the hilly "bird" run - a good calorie burner after the holiday excesses. But, despite the indulgences (or perhaps because of them) we continued the food theme in our coffee chat. A day trip to Cleveland's West Side Market (http://www.westsidemarket.org/) was considered after Elaine's enthusiastic description. The virtues of butter; bacon Brussels sprouts and figs; as well as Indian spiced okra were discussed.

But here is the secret to our ability to consume and a good reason to keep getting up early to run!

HEALTH   | December 15, 2010 
Well: Phys Ed: The Benefits of Exercising Before Breakfast 
By GRETCHEN REYNOLDS 
A new study suggests that exercising on an empty stomach can combat a high-fat, high-calorie diet. 

Dec 26 and other holiday runs: Squirrel Hill

Hard to believe that we have just a few more runs left in 2010! Here is the schedule:

Fri, 24 Dec: The usual 5:45 AM run (Tom will be there)

Sat, 25 Dec: 7:30 AM at Starbucks, Forbes and Shady (it is the only place open)

Sun, 26 Dec: 7:00 AM at Common Place Coffee

Routes will be improvised based on the group will (except of course for Friday) but may involve Homewood Cemetery, Frick Park or Shady Side.

Although it was cold there was no snow or ice curtailing the run this morning. We were able to see the panthers with their hats as well as Dippy the dinosaur keeping warm with a red scarf. A red-tailed hawk surveyed nonchalantly us from its perch over the Panther Hollow Bridge without the red jacket that Tom said he was meant to be wearing. We got a little taste of Schenley Park in the winter before heading back to Squirrel Hill where we had to imagine a very elaborate inflatable display (it was Tom's run - you knew there were be at least one inflatable) on Marlboro Ave - unfortunately the owners had not anticipated early morning gawkers.

Several runners on the injured list joined us for coffee and Pam provided ginger bread making it even more festive than usual.

Dec 19 Run: Tom's House for the Holiday Panther Run

Another run that is sure to bring bad weather: meet at Tom's house (5434 Ayesboro - about a 1/2 block from Forbes) for a run to see the Panther statues by Phipps with their holiday hats on. I am sure there will be additional visual treats, knowing Tom.

I admit, I was thinking of staying in bed this morning, but as I have recently learned, 40's and light rain is really not bad running weather, so I drove downtown and of course was glad I did. 

Despite having the role of run leader thrown at him with no warning, Tom took us on a comprehensive tour of the city's holiday displays, with a few historical facts thrown in for our learning pleasure. One of the first stops was at, what I always thought was a mural, of Pirate players throughout history displayed at the juncture of Second Ave. and the Boulevard. It is not a mural but a painting on canvas. Our enthusiastic pointing and touching caught the attention of a near-by police person who turned on his siren and gave us a stern hands-off warning. We have done unsanctioned things in the past but this was the first time anyone noticed! Luckily this did not set a precedent and we managed to restrain ourselves for the rest of the run - although I was sorely tempted to have us all climb into the the life-size nativity scene at the Steel Building (we decided it would be safer to Photoshop our faces onto the statues given our earlier run in with the law). Despite some who did not find the Macy's windows attractive, I and a few others found their detail and execution entrancing. We also saw many well-decorated trees and had a discussion about the proper display of Menorahs but the big finale was an amazing display of ginger bread houses at PPG place (http://www.ppgplace.com/gingerbread.php). There were many ingenious subjects and artful touches to capture your attention! Among others there was a pyramid made of Matzo crackers, a church made out of gum, a rendering of the civic arena, a swiss chalet with little hearts on the shutters, a remarkable likeness of St. Bernard's Church in Mt. Lebanon made by pre-schoolers and more. We discussed these and lots of other topics over coffee and donuts at Dunkin Donuts in  the all new Market Square - continuing the new random practice of having coffee where we run. This also made it easier for Louise to get to know us. She a long-time lurker now made famous as part of the dining table relay.Welcome!

Oh and for those who are looking for new dinner ideas, here is a site with an intriguing name but delicious recipes: http://cooktobang.com/ 

Dec 12: PPG Place for a Holiday Run

Assuming the roads are passable, next Sunday we will meet at the Tomb of the Unknown Bowler - aka PPG Place for a tour of the city's holiday sites - a classic run, not to be missed.

Run to the Run starts at 6:15AM from Phipps (not Squirrel Hill).

Hello winter! Cold winds and snow did not prevent a good showing for a scenic and adventure-full run this morning. We headed out from IHOP and after a few downhills and turns the road opened up to a snowy post-card view of the Mon - it was a run stopper! We were the first to make a mark on the river trail on our way to the Glenwood bridge and by this time big fluffy flakes were adding to the holiday feel. Many thanks to Roye who remembered the little tricks for getting on to and off of the bridge! Unfortunately the were big gates across the entrance  to Sand Castle which were not closed the last time we did this route. After some discussion and a pause to let a train go by we opted (well, I started running) to take the tracks. Luckily no other trains came and we were able to pick up a road very quickly. After that it was back to the stacks, up to the Homestead Grays bridge where a flock of birds and a hawk greeted us then across the river where we got a good view of where we had just run. Those who did not have to head home (this turned out to be a longer run than expected) stayed for a big enough breakfast to feed even those who did not order!

Dec 4 Run: IHOP on Brown's Hill Road

Continuing the tradition of welcoming breakfast related places to the neighborhood, we will meet at the new IHOP on Brown's Hill Road next Sunday. It is a convenient starting point for an Allegheny River loop: down river to the Glenwood Bridge, across the bridge, weave through Sand Castle, then back over the Homestead Grays bridge. I am hoping that others that ran this route last summer will help me remember the tricky parts. If you like you can stay for pancakes after the run.

I am sure there will be run to the run, probably from Common Place - it is about 2 miles from there so I will say starting at 6:35 AM.

Clear skies and a bright sunrise was a good way to finish off a Thanksgiving weekend and a nice start to the holiday season. We ran through one of my favorite (are you thinking that every run is a favorite of mine? I think you might be right!) cemeteries: Homewood. I love that this little piece of quiet is right in our neighborhood. Today we saw 5 deer but no other humans. It was a soothing run - I suspect we will all relish these breaks as we rush toward the end of 2010.

Nov 28 and Holiday Runs: Common Place Coffee - but check the times

Virginia will lead a 5 - 6 mile run from Common Place Coffee on Thanksgiving Day starting at 7:30am.

The day after Thanksgiving the run will leave Forbes and Murray at the usual 5:45AM time - ask Tom for details.

Sunday Nov 28, the run will start at Common Place Coffee as well at the regular 7:00am start time.

Mist in the morning makes everything look ethereal, picturesque,[fill in your favorite adjective here] as we saw on the spectacular run that Joanne led this morning. We climbed up and up through Morningside to Stanton Heights catching glimpses of Highland Park, both the neighborhood and the park, as if we were in the clouds looking down. The sun coming up through that veil of mist stopped us mid-run - a bronze globe peering through the lacy black trees. If that were not enough, we saw sights along the way: the first crèche and inflatable of the season (not in the same yard); numerous small cement statues and other elaborate house decorations; a survey of Mildred's Daughter's Farm, perched improbably at the top of a hill in Morningside; the empty building that will be the new Park Brugge and on a more somber note, the block where the three police officers were killed a few years ago as well as the ball field that was named after one of them. A most satisfying run, completed with coffee, cinnamon rolls and apple tarts.

We have a lot for which to be thankful!

Nov 21 Pre-Thanksgiving Run: Tazza D'Oro for a Highland Park Run

Next Sunday meet at Tazza D'Oro for a run through Highland Park. We are hoping Joanne will be lured out to lead us. Bring some $$ to buy luscious cinnamon rolls and coffee at Tazza D'Oro.

Run to the run will leave at 6:30 AM from Common Place Coffee - please pass by Shady and Wilkins to pick up any locals.

Not sure why this run felt like a special one but there were certainly many contributing factors:

• One of EE Runners's favorite routes as evidenced by the 17 people who showed up! (see photo)
• Stunning views of the city and the river from the 31st bridge (see photo)
• Drop in visit from someone from my rowing team - I love it when groups collide!
• Enough leaves on the trees to create a golden corridor on the River Trial
• Painted stone duck at the new trail construction site and enthusiastic new member (see photo)
• Return of Carrie after her ankle twist, of Pam who has been busy with a new job and of Carol who paid us a visit from up North
• Melt-in-your mouth meles and smooth coffee at La Prima
• A longer than usual post-race conversation during which I learned that the phones in elevators are linked a central service center not someone in the building and that the close door button on elevators is there only for show

Thanks to PtB for the photos!

Nov 14 Run: 21st & Liberty Ave for a tour of the Strip District

Many thanks to Virginia for capturing this past Sunday's run:

Even though it was 32 degrees, we drew a nicely sized crowd this morning and had a newcomer -- Janet Waldeck, aka, Dr. Waldeck, Allderdice High School physics teacher. She has taught (and is teaching) many of our children. What fun! She worried about trailing the group in her inaugural run with us, but was clearly one our stronger runners as we ran through still-beautiful Frick Park. We hope she returns!  Karen reports that Carrie (sorry if I'm misspelling your name) is recuperating with a sprained ankle after her stumble in Homewood cemetery in the darkness of early Halloween last week, and was planning on joining Karen after the run for a gentle walk.

 

Next week, one of our favorites:-- 21st Street in Strip District. We meet at the parking lot at 21st Street and Liberty.

Run to the Run begins at 6:20 a.m. in front of Commonplace Coffee. I'll be thinking of those luscious almond pastries all week! Cheers

Nov 7 Run: Colfax School for a run in Frick Park

Hoping to catch the last bits of fall colors, next weeks run will be in Frick Park - meet at Colfax School on Beechwood Boulevard.

Today being Halloween we ran through Homewood Cemetery - always a favorite route of mine. On our way there we admired an elaborately decorated yard complete with a miniature haunted house and eyeball lights. This, as well as our mini costumes, put us in spirit of the holiday. The cemetery was peaceful as always and even in the early morning light you could catch glimpses of the bright leaves. The cemetery deer were out - we saw at least 5 of them. I know they are quite common now but it there is still a little magic in the moment when both human and deer pause to look at each other. On our return we took a quick tour through Smithfield Cemetery as well. See the attached photo of us In Homewood Cemetery - thanks to PTB for providing this archival worth photo.

We send her lots of healing wishes out to Carrie who early in the run turned her ankle and had to return to Squirrel Hill.

Halloween Run: Common Place Coffee for a Cemetery Run

Since next Sunday is Halloween we thought it would be appropriate to run in our local cemetery, which should be decked out in fall colors. Given the holiday everyone is requested to wear a costume related item (or two) to celebrate. So dig out your boas and cowboy hats....

Tom took us on a truly diverse run today - from the back alleys of Oakland to the leafy alleys of Schenley Park. He ran us by a newly painted mural that was right next to the building where several runners work. While there Tom claimed that cathedrals had two steeples - which is why the church in mural had to be Heinz chapel even though it looked like St. Paul's. The hill-sides of Schenley Park looked somewhat muted - not the blaze of color I expected but there were some moments where runners ahead were framed in gold and the scene looked like a photo from a running calendar. Unfortunately we saw no inflatables - maybe next week!
Coffee discussion was entertaining as always and Sharon, who is on the injured list, stopped by for a visit.

Oct. 24 run: from Tom's house on Aylesboro near Forbes

This Sunday’s run will be led by Tom from his house on Aylesboro almost at Forbes. No clue as to theme, though there could be a tribute to Paula and Jonathan’s anniversary which they celebrated last Sunday, starting out with our run.

After sending a shoutout to group members running in Central Park this a.m., our little band decided to go for tradition and take the “Bird Run” down Wightman and up Beechwood – though come to think of it, none of us could remember the route except for Tom, who was a bit evasive when I asked him where the birds were. What we did see was the first inflatable of the year – a giant Frankenstein? – and are eagerly anticipating the long march of puffy Pilgrims, Santas, and Easter Bunnies.

Oct 17 Run: Wild Card run from Common Place Coffee in Squirrel Hill

Thanks to Elaine Mormer for her recounting of this past Sunday's run.

Today’s group agreed to make next week (this coming Sunday) a “wild card” run to meet at Common Place Coffee.

This morning’s run had a small but enthusiastic group (only 5 ) looping the Allegheny River from the Hot Metal Bridge to Station Square. After soaking up the expansive views from the Hot Metal Bridge, we headed west towards town. We were greeted by a young couple, just married last night, taking in their first sunrise as husband and wife. Passing through the Southside Riverfront Park we found ourselves surrounded by an enormous gathering of camo-clad pick-up truck drivers, towing outboard motor boats…was it for racing or fishing..? Approaching Station Square, close to the Sand and Gravel plant, we encountered a movie crew wrapping up filming of scenes for the upcoming “A New York Heartbeat”http://www.pghfilm.org/hotline/hotline_jobs.jsp. Crossing over the Smithfield Street Bridge we admired the still low but blazing sunrise, when once again we encountered those same newlyweds- looking for yet another angle from which to view this first sunrise of their lives together. Below us, along the Mon Wharf, we viewed what appeared to be a ritual gathering of homeless folks. As we headed east on the Jail Trail, we noted that the gathering of boats in the Southside parking lot had transformed into a flotilla of impressive size in the river. This run was certainly eventful and Kate aptly summarized the joy of the morning when she exclaimed: “This is the besssst way to start the day!” (or something to that effect).

Also for those interested in picking up trash (as I always am):
PLEASE NOTE that there will be a SQUIRREL HILL CLEAN-UP DAY on OCTOBER 17th
9am-12noon
Meet under the awning at the corner of Forbes and Murray.
If you have any questions please contact Bicky at BIckylouinpgh@aol.com

Oct 10 Run: Hot Metal Bridge for a South Side Run

Next Sunday meet at the parking lot right next to the Hot Metal Bridge. You can get into the lot by crossing Second Ave at Bates St. into the industrial park and turning left. We will probably run on the trail towards Sand Castle although we have been known to switch at the last minute...

Meet at the Common Place Coffee Shop at 6:30AM for a run to the run. If you need a ride, send a note to the group.

Three new runners showed up this morning for the Wendy Bennett Trailhead run - a great way to start off the Fall season! Despite overcast skies and a few sprinkles the magic of the run held off any significant rain. The trees in Schenley park are a more subdued shade of green but bright touches of red are starting to appear. There are still wildflowers blooming on the side of the trails marking the transition from summer. All told it was a good solid regular run followed as usual by lively conversation and coffee.

Oct 3 Run: Wendy Bennett (not Memorial) Trailhead

As I understand it this coming week's run was chosen by default but it could be a good one as we can look for the first signs of Fall. Meet at the Wendy Bennett Trailhead aka the entrance to Schenley Park at the corner of Bartlett and the Boulevard - just at the foot of the road going up to the Oval.

I hope everyone had a great time at the Great Race or running around Squirrel Hill. Dave and I jumped in for part of the Austin Marathon and 10K thinking of all of you in Pittsburgh.

Sep 26 Run: Common Place Coffee or Great Race

Next week is the Great Race - for those not running this iconic Pittsburgh race, meet at the Common Place Coffee shop to create your own memorable run.

Speaking of iconic - or not - we were to run one of the well-loved routes in our repertoire today but ended up on another that was just as interesting. We started out at 21st street in the Strip running up river to the 31st bridge as usual but Eric reminded us that a substantial part of the new trail between Herr's Island and Millvale had just been opened. In a move that would have shocked Tom and did confuse those running just out of earshot of the discussion, we veered from our regular course onto this new trail. While parts are still being finished the middle of this trail is a wonder of cement - it is its own little bridge between what will be the newly re-located rail-road tracks and the channel between the Island and the shore. Since we were running that way we kept going up river past the very lovely Millvale Riverfront Park, which has sweeping views of the 40th street bridge and the serene morning river. Then we headed back up to and across that same bridge. It was difficult to not stop and window shop at all the quaint and interesting shops on Butler Street - and at the end we found the almost hidden Roberto Clamente museum. After that it was a somewhat long slog back down Penn but of course meles and coffee were waiting at La Prima - always a welcome reward!

To view 09/19/2010 River to Millvale Jn, follow the link below:
http://www.mapmyrun.com/view_route?r=587128490097640791

Sept. 19 run - Strip from parking lot at Liberty Ave. and 21st St.

Excessive talking at coffee resulted in no plan for the next run, so we are going for, via email suggestions, the "Coffee and River from the Strip" run (note which word precedes) which meets at the parking lot off Liberty Ave. at 21st St., to be led by: group consensus (sorry, Tom!)

Report: The rain that had been falling all night held off for the run, as it always does, and we had deliciously cool sailing all over Frick Park, led by Karen. At the end of it, diehard runner Eric was seen taking off back down the trail to do it all over again. Somewhat less diehard runners headed up to Squirrel Hill for our customary coffee chat, which ranged over lingerie-themed wedding showers, comparative synagogues, and the plague of bedbugs in NYC. (Should we go? If we do, will anyone let us in their house when we get back?) Also, if you happen to be in a bar or coffee shop and notice a young person staring at your throat, PtB may be responsible.

Endorsements: Mad Men Season 4, and CastTV - www.casttv.com - where you can watch MMS4 without cable!!

Sept. 12 run - Frick Park at S. Homewood and Reynolds

Next Sunday: a Frick Park run - easier on the joints - starting at S. Homewood and Reynolds entrance to the park.

Two runs in succession in cool sparkling weather conditions this holiday weekend. First, led by Virginia, through Edgewood and Regent Square, exclaiming over beautiful old Pittsburgh houses, leafy streets and gigantic hills (the latter was of course cvetching.) Some of the group followed up with the gorgeous breakfast at the Square Cafe - where they have square coffee cups - and I just now figured that out. Our Labor Day run began at Commonplace Coffee (we're not even starting at CTR anymore??) and perhaps because of that, in a startling break from precedent, Tom (Esq.), and "Respect the Run" enforcer Elaine both instigated and allowed multiple diversions from the initial plan, and as a result we were able to Salute Labor at the entrance to Magee Hospital, and see the grand vista over the top of the golf course behind CMU. Coffee did have us back at our old table outside CTR but only because CC was closed. Joined delightfully by a new runner who found our blog and was attracted by our apparent attention to coffee (plenty of evidence here.)

Endorsements: One Thousand White Women, and The Secret Scripture (books); breakfast at Square Cafe; The Moth Radio and Podcast; Lady Gaga; the weird, fascinating homemade fence of motherboards, ancient bikes, vintage vinyl records spotted somewhere in Regent Square; free trips. And coffee, wherever.

Sep 5th: 7AM Tennis courts on Braddock Ave, Labor Day: 7:30 AM Common Place Coffee

End/decline of summer runs this coming weekend: 7AM on Sunday, 9/5, meet at the tennis courts on Braddock Ave. for an Edgewood run. Bring a few extra $ if you want to eat breakfast afterwards at the Square Cafe (highly recommended). Sleep in on Labor Day - meet at 7:30AM at the Common Place Coffee shop in Squill for a runners' choice route.

We had a pleasant summery run up (and it is UP) to the top of Oakland to visit the park and water tower that looks out over what seems to be all of Pittsburgh. Because of the trees, it was not possible to see as much detail as in past visits, but the view clearly illustrates why Pittsburgh is a green city. The neighborhoods look so different from above, like you had been plopped down in another city, making it fun to guess what you are looking at. Our run down once again took us past places I had not seen before - so typical of Pittsburgh where you can take 5 different routes to get to the same place, each taking you past something interesting!
We welcomed back Janet, who seamlessly joined in as if she had never been gone - a true virtue of this group, you can move in and out with ease.

Aug 29 Run: Phipps for a run up to the water tower in Oakland

On the last Sunday of August 2010 (!) meet at Phipps Conservatory for a run up, up, up to the water tower on Heron Hill with the 360 degree views of Pittsburgh. I am hoping it is an uneventful run so I don't have to write so much....

Dr. Murray Pulls Out Another Corker*
With pamphlets in hand but with no particular route planned, Pam Murray led us on another rewarding Pittsburgh neighborhood discovery tour, this one in Homestead/ Munhall. We began on the always favored Waterfront trail with stops at the Pump-house and the Labyrinth (where people traveled the paths discussing cell phone plans - not sure this constituted meditation). These were once destinations in of themselves but today were only appetizers.

Crossing the rail-road tracks and climbing barriers we headed up into Homestead, which according to Wikipedia is comprised of the boroughs of Homestead, Munhall and West Homestead - thus the source of the Homestead vs. Munhall confusion - it was both Homestead AND Munhall. We were all surprised at the beautiful Victorian mansions perched on the hill overlooking the river where likely all those mill managers lived to escape the polluted air. While some are slightly (well, more than slightly) shabby there are a number that have been kept up and are surrounded by colorful gardens and ornate iron fences. Of course we paid to visit the beautiful Carnegie Library which is finding new life as a concert venue and still houses a swim club - an odd combination.

Then onto churches and funeral homes - on one street there were 3 funeral homes and I think 3 churches - one of which was/still is? a synagogue. Around the corner we stopped to admire St. Nicholas Orthodox Church and a deacon who was on his way in told us it was open. Of course we took this as an invitation to go in. The church was in beautiful condition, all glowing blue and gold murals of patron saints and other religious scenes. Feeling inappropriately dressed and quite sweaty we were creeping out when what I think must have been the pastor dressed in robes that were equally stunningly blue and gold came to speak with us. He told us about the church itself (75 years old, 500 parishioners, the history of the orthodox religion and gave us a short lesson on the source of light in the icons painted on the back of the church. What a serendipitous encounter!

The run did not end there - we checked out the stores on Eighth Ave including the The Annex, once located in Shadyside and its companion vegetarian restaurant. Then it really was back to the stacks with a short stop at Blue Dust which Pam called a "gastro pub" - great beer, good food.

There was too much fun on the run so coffee hour was very limited. But here is the link to Slow Food Pittsburgh:
http://www.slowfoodpgh.com/aboutus.html for those who would like to get on their mailing list ad find out about their events which are open to all - well worth it!


* I don't plan on making a habit of appending titles but this one was well deserved

Aug 22 run: Waterfront for some kind of a run

Meet at the big stacks at the Waterfront (lots of easy parking) for either a Homestead run by Pam Murray or a Duck Hollow/Glenwood Bridge run by those of us who can remember what we did last time.

Vacation in Your Home Town
This morning Cheryl took us on a stellar tour of Mount Washington and although there were quite a few more hills than were originally advertised, they were worth it. We ran through sections of Mount Washington that most of us had never seen before: a quaint looking business district, that included a working grocery store and an cozy family-owned breakfast place; tidy streets of sedate brick homes next to architectural digest worthy new ones and best of all Grandview Park with its lush greenery , "California without the eucalyptus." We ended the run with the classic Grandview Ave tour where we learned there will soon be a new restaurant and hotel complex. Of course we were accompanied all along our route by the sky-high views of our beautiful city and its rivers - sometimes a sneak-peak through a gap between houses, sometimes the full-on blast of a meant to be looked at view enjoyed by pricey residences sitting next too more modest ones (thousand dollar houses, million dollar views).

As if this was not enough, Cheryl provided us with coffee AND breakfast where we had the luxury of staying later than usual to discuss all manner of interesting things (at least to us).

Here is a nice story about Grandview Park: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09271/1001344-53.stm

Aug 15 Run: Chatham Village for a Mt. Washington Run

Cheryl Levin generously offered to lead us on a running tour of Mt. Washington and give us coffee afterwards at her lovely apartment in Chatham Village this coming Sunday! Meet in the vicinity of Little's Shoes at 6:40 AM to car pool to the run.

It was a perfect mid/late summer morning for a run - cool but bright, streets very quiet thanks to vacations and schools still out on break. We took a dive into the greenness of Schenley park, running to the pond (wittily observing the No Skating signs), across the tracks, past the soccer fields and into the bottom of Greenfield. True to its Italian roots, there were squash, corn and tomatoes growing along the streets. Defying the "Steps Closed"sign we scaled the very steep stairs next to what I think is St John Chrysostom Byzantine Church (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._John_Chrysostom_Byzantine_Catholic_Church_(Pittsburgh)), which included quite a few gaps and wobbly steps, up into Greenfield proper. I think this is the third time we have done this climb, but I am always amazed at how far down the bottom is once arriving at the top. From there is was back to the start over the Greenfield bridge and on to a raucous coffee gathering.

It appears we have officially made the switch to the "new" coffee place, Commonplace Coffee, at least for Sunday gatherings. We had a guest on today's run, one of Wendy and Max's wonderful set of friends from school, who was given the full immersion treatment in the running group's coffee conversation extravaganzas. As always topics were diverse but somehow veered into body hair and odor which made for some spicy conversation. To off set the frivolous nature of that thread, Roye gave us a glowing recommendation for the book Cloud Atlas (http://www.amazon.com/Cloud-Atlas-Novel-David-Mitchell/dp/0375507256/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1281300965&sr=1-1) by David Mitchell.

August 8 run: Wendy Bennett Trailhead/Schenley Park

Next Sunday's run will meet at the Wendy Bennett Trailhead at Schenley Park, but will surprise you by NOT taking the usual route, courtesy of Elaine.

Yesterday's run traversed a leafy and somewhat dusty Frick Park, and Karen thoughtfully devised a route that was somehow almost all downhill. We were delighted to be joined by celebrity alum, Janet, and marveled at how our conversations over the years have spanned magnet school and career choices, often for the SAME kid. Post-run, we find ourselves now ineluctably drawn toward Commonplace Coffee; and I've let too much time go by to remember our conversational gems, but we continue to add to our list of recommended workpeople (take that, Angie's list!), Pittsburgh's wedding venues can involve large retired Steelers, and there were mixed reviews of the Megabus, but you can't beat a $15 roundtrip ticket to NYC.

Aug 1 Run: Entrance to Frick Park and Reynolds and Homewood

Next week really will be a run in Frick Park - unfortunately I won't be here to enjoy it! Meet at the entrance by the traffic circle at the end of Reynolds.

Despite it being cooler it still felt sticky this morning - a little like moving through molasses. But good company and distracting scenery made the run palatable. We took a tour around car history, displayed on the little loop (known by various names) at the Hobart end of Schenley Park then headed down to the Wendy Bennett Trailhead. The Vintage Grand Prix workers at the intersection with Bartlett were a lot more spunky than I was feeling and were surprisingly nice - I seem to recall other years where there was far more stern warnings to get off the course. A dive into the cool green of the park did feel better and causing us to marvel once again about how beautiful these city trails are - almost as good as Alaska! Then up over the golf course and all the commercial hubbub around the race.

July 25 Run: Common Place Coffee on Forbes for Vintage Grand Prix Run

Officially changing the run so we can check out the cars at the Vintage Grand Prix. Meet at the "new" coffee place on Forbes.

On Wed, Jul 21, 2010 at 7:26 AM, <theresa.malmstrom@pnc.com> wrote:

At the risk of really messing everyone up, I thought I'd point out that the Vintage Grand Prix is this weekend and we usually try to take the run over into the "Fruit Loop" (as Elaine reminded me that it's called this morning) to see all of the cars and then down through Schenley.  Do we want to meet  at TCT or Commonplace to start and head over that way instead this Sunday?
-Teri

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Our run was so absorbing today that we forgot to choose a place for next week. Given that we have limited access to the parks once the days get shorter, I am proposing we meet at the entrance to Frick Park by the Art Museum and then take the trail down to Nine Mile Run and return - either to the Coffee Tree or to the start. Please suggest an alternative run if you have been desperate to see another part of Pittsburgh.

Today's run to the run turned out to be THE run when no-one showed up with a car at Tazza D'Oro. Luckily we were greeted there by Joanne who kindly modified the route to our wishes. We took a quick pass around the always refreshing Highland Park reservoir then circled back up (and it really is up!) the ever changing face of Negley Ave - from leafy green Highland Park, to more industrial although improving E. Liberty, to the foot of the Negley Hill. Given the heat and humidity, there was quick agreement to walk up the hill (no secrets between us). Just up the second rise a man was watering his garden. Elaine asked if he would turn the spray on us and that bit of water was all we needed to get us back to the Common Grounds Coffee House, which may be the new Sunday gathering place. The coffee is delicious and the shaded outdoor seating area is perfect for sitting and solving all problems, or at least discussing them, on these lazy summer Sundays.

Our Schenley run mapped

PtB kindly sent in the map of our run that starts at the Wendy Bennett Trailhead:
Now a historical document!

July 18 run - Tazza D'Oro - Highland Park

Next week we are going back to the Highland Park run, from Tazza D'Oro at 1125 N. Highland Ave. Not sure who's leading, but all will be made clear by 7:05 a.m.
Virginia says that the run-to-the-run will leave the Coffee Tree on Forbes at 6:25 or so.

Our run today was the tried, true, and lovely Schenley Park run on one of its most pleasant mornings - leafy, fresh, and bright. Various mysteries were solved or proposed: Luckily Tom showed up just before we set off, to clear up the one concerning whether or not he has a beard. A shoutout to Elaine in AK, who will have to help us with our puzzlement over how bear spray works. Also, why was the model #14 Mizuno Wave Rider such a dud when all the other years were great? And high fives for the new movie The Square, mysterious and thrilling. Finally, what is the inexorable force moving us from Coffee Tree to Commonplace Coffee across the street? From where we sent another shoutout to Cheryl - no mystery there, but a request for an email from Italy just for the fun of it.

July 11 Run: Wendy Bennett Trailhead

I have been remiss in my scribe duties due to a very long holiday weekend and a busy work week but Paula C (the brain) sent this nice recounting of last weekend's runs and proposed the Wendy Bennett Trailhead run for this coming Sunday. I am taking her up on her offer. Alas I won't be there but will be thinking of you as I prepare for yet another regatta in Washington DC.

It has been a nice couple of days of runs. Roye's run starting at Bakery Square had numerous points of interest winding through East Liberty redevelopment and Friendship. I didn't stay for it, but the Bakery Square CTR seemed to get a thumbs up from the running group. Today we had a pleasant run down through Chatham College campus and circling back along Beechwood, up to Linden Ave. We stopped to admire Wendy's impressive garden and then had coffee and conversation at the Common Place coffee shop in Squirrel Hill. We covered many topics including strategies for insuring teen-age drivers and providing them with wheels, Indian weddings and breast milk--just the usual narrow set of topics!

I don't think that we decided on a run for next week. Unless someone else tells you otherwise, I propose the Wendy Bennett Trailhead run.