Mr. Rattlesnake!

Well, on a day I needed my camera - of course I didn't have it! After Tuesday night's tough session, yesterday was a nice easy four mile recovery run on the paved trails at Crystal Cove. Now, normally I do my weekday runs in the late afternoon or evening. But, last night was "boys night out" (more on that later), so I took my lunch hour and headed on down to Crystal Cove. The weather was brisk by Southern California standards - cloudy, overcast, and breezy - but it was perfect running weather.

One thing for sure - this route has some pretty spectacular views. I settled in and enjoyed the stormy skies above and the crashing waves below. About a mile and a half into the run, I rounded a corner to see him there. Yessiree! Mr. Western Diamondback Rattlesnake! Poor guy was stretched out on the asphalt path. Being cold blooded, he was obviously trying to gather whatever warmth he could from the meager rays of the sun on the black asphalt. Luckily, I *am* the running fat guy. He obviously felt the ground shuddering from the impact I was making as I plodded along. He was trying to slither away, but just couldn't muster the warmth to make a fast getaway. I got to watch (from close range) as the young snake (it was about 2 feet long and had 3 rattles) made his way slowly into the safety of the brush along the trail. What a cool distraction to an otherwise normal run! (By the way - the photo is not a photo of the snake I saw, but just a stock photo of Western Diamondback).

Today is Thursday - so that means tempo day! Looks like a 45 minute tempo run on the schedule. And tomorrow - more about boys night out (here's a hint - Ducks v. Canucks).