Unfortunately my host, Ellen, had to work the next day. In fact, she had to work until 10pm.

That left me with the whole day free. After a leisurely breakfast combined with blog reading, I put on my running shoes. Nope.  I didn’t go  running… My legs felt ok but my feet were a little sore. I decided instead to go for a walk…a long walk it turned out to be –  with periodic stops for nourishment…cafe latte and a bagel…pumpkin yogurt.

When I got home I spent the rest of the afternoon by the pool with my feet in the cold water while reading a book.

I couldn’t put it down!!!

I forgot to mention that the weather was gorgeous … Unlike race day!!!!

Before I left for CA, thanks to Facebook, I discovered that 2 of my former French students lived nearby so we planned to meet. Actually I let them make the plans. Maeghan picked me up and drove to Long Beach to meet Erin. We decided that it would be a propos to eat in a French restaurant. Erin’s pick of La Creperie was perfect! We hadn’t connected in 18 years so we spent several hours catching up and eating delicious crepes. We even shared a huge dessert crepe among the 3 of us.

The next morning, I did don my running clothes but that’s all. I didn’t run although I seriously considered it. I decided it was more important to go sightseeing on my last day. Google maps helped me plan my trip to Santa Monica. Yeah, I didn’t have a car and Ellen had to work but as a capable adult, I could take 2 buses by myself and safely get to & from Santa Monica.

And I did! It was fun.

I had lunch on Santa Monica pier, walked around & even watched students in the trapeze school.

I took a long walk along the beach. It was cool but sunny.  PERFECT!!

Then sat near Muscle beach and watched all the runners on the bike path. I even made friends with an iguana named “Green.”

Yeah, I got the running urge. So I bought an ice cream cone and walked into town to catch my bus back.

Oh, did I mention that the weather was gorgeous except for race day.

The day ended with dinner in a Mexican restaurant. I was told that you have to eat Mexican when in CA. They were right. Dinner was great so was the Cadillac margarita and fried ice cream.

So now, I’m back East … Home from my destination race vacation.

Yes, everything didn’t go as planned. But I’m glad that I went.

Happy Running! Happy Veteran’s Day!