Why do this?   My motivation ...

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All of the “Have you ever” bullets were checked off after follow up research back home.

• No record of anyone ever trying to run a continuous route throughout NH that connects all of the incorporated towns

• We’ve lived in NH for over 30 years and there is still much of this wonderful state we’ve never visited or explored.  What an excellent opportunity to do just that.

• Running and exploring are a great way to fill time.  Each leg offers a new perspective on an area of NH

• Nancy and I enjoy road trips and exploring areas together.  This is a perfect match for us.

• This is a challenge that fits me.  It can be done at my own pace (not a race) and is a challenge not only of the body with running, but also of the mind with planning/logistics/perseverance.

• Every leg offers the opportunity to create memories and document them with pictures and recording of route performance via Apple watch.

• In October 2020 I had surgery for a torn meniscus.  I had been unable to run for months after having suffered a radial tear and leading up to surgery I thought I’d never be able to run again without pain.  Following rehab I started to feel running was possible again and little by little my leg strengthened and conditioning improved.  By early 2021 I was able to run reasonable distances again (not as far/fast as before, but run none the less).  So what was lost, was found again and I want to run as long as my body will let me.  The key is to be smart about it.  My meniscus is still torn and I have to monitor my activity and sometimes take extended breaks from running.  Shout out to Dr Patrick Casey of Concord Orthopaedics for his expert care, treatment and understanding.

• The idea of fulfilling a quest like this with running at its core is certainly me.  

 

I believe that everyone needs an outlet, stress reliever, form of meditation in their lives.  There are industries built around convincing us that they have the perfect answer to address these needs - and it’s just for us.

 

For me, lacing up a pair of shoes has been my meditation, my “place of joy”, since I was very young.  Running has served me well over many years of life’s ups and downs.  Running served as the one thing I could do to escape, renew and recharge.  There’s nothing like a long run to cure what ails you …. Ok, me.