With a guilty heart and sweaty torso, I must confess my infidelity. We’ve had a special connection since that first morning years ago when we met for a sunrise run. Our relationship was never exclusive — I’ve gotten hot and sweaty with many other roads and routes around the world — but it was you, and only you, I’d visit for a sunrise run along a bay.
Until a few days ago.
I’ve been here in San Francisco, as you know, and I began feeling an intense urge to lace on my running shoes at dawn the day after I arrived. I made my way to the Embaradero, exploring its shape and contours as the sun emerged from San Francisco Bay and rose by the Bay Bridge.
I did it again a few days later.
The Embarcadero is nothing like you, my dear Bayshore. Do not be jealous of its fame or its Ferry Terminal. While it is pretty, you can’t ignore its dirty past as an industrial port, teeming with seamen. You, Bayshore, have been Tampa’s beautiful Boulevard of Dreams since your first balustrade was built over 100 years ago.
It’s not eau, it’s me.
I shall return to you soon, sweet Bayshore. I know that my experiences here in San Francisco won’t change our relationship because we have a special bond built over many years and miles. Also, you’re a sidewalk and don’t have feelings.
Saturday Run
Saturday Run by the Numbers
Distance: 2.7 miles (4.3 km)
Temperature: 46°F (8°C)
Coffee shops popped into on way back to hotel: 1 (Peet’s)
Wednesday Run
Wednesday Run by the Numbers
Distance: 2.3 miles (736 rods)
Temperature: 42°F (278°K)
Dinosaurs seen: Zero
Dinosaur descendants seen: I’m still figuring that out.