“Harrop Up, Churchill Down: Antenna Loop”

“Harrop Up, Churchill Down: Antenna Loop” A short, punchy loop taking in the antenna site: climb steady on Harrop Trail, then enjoy a faster, flowing descent via Churchill Drive. A simple up-and-down route that links effort with reward, and a clean circuit for checking in on the hilltop installations.

Bob, the Rasta, from the bushes

Today’s outing to Lohbrunner Pond turned into a bit of an adventure when I accidentally took my usual route and had to backtrack before getting on course. Along the way I mixed steady walking with short running bursts, enjoying cooler temperatures, plenty of trail encounters, and a chance to test how a few lifestyle tweaks have been affecting my energy levels. I crossed the meadows, exchanged greetings with familiar faces, dodged cyclists and dogs, and soaked in the sounds of the city waking up around me. By the time I reached the pond, my pace had steadily improved and I was feeling fresh, rested, and well hydrated despite the extra kilometre added by my early navigation error. After taking a few photos and enjoying the peaceful scenery, I looped around the pond and headed home, satisfied with another enjoyable midweek outing.

The Glencoe Mash

On a sunny Sunday, I set out to walk Rob’s five-mile route at an easy pace, enjoying the busy atmosphere around Lambrick Park with cyclists, soccer games, baseball, and the summer market. I reflected on a trip the day before to visit my friend Derek and see a Spielberg movie, though missing a bus turned part of the journey into a five-kilometre walk. The route took me through neighbourhoods and along the waterfront, where I enjoyed views of the Gulf Islands, distant mountains, ships, and an exceptionally low tide. Along the way, I shared thoughts about e-bike rentals, the movie, and my preference for keeping these recordings relaxed and unscripted. By the time I reached the final climb home, I had nearly completed my workout goals and was looking forward to an afternoon of cooking and a run the next day.

Over Dressed on Irvine

Today I ran to the summit, climbing through dense forest to the communications towers on the rocky ridge above. Dark storm clouds loomed overhead, but patches of blue sky created a dramatic backdrop. As I gained elevation, sweeping views opened up across the surrounding hills and forests. Reaching the top was rewarding, especially with the constantly changing weather adding to the experience. It was a challenging and memorable run with some spectacular scenery along the way.