It hardly seems possible that this is my 600th post since retirement a year-and-a-half ago. As a goal-oriented person, even while not working for a living, I initially pledged to write a blog-a-day. Today is the 198th day of the year, the 563rd day of retirement, and the 3,488th day of my running streak, so I’m exceeding all my running and writing goals, even if the two aren’t necessarily connected. Writing is always easier than running, and since running comes first every morning, it’s often the source of my subject matter. Once again, I struggled with my speed, as balance continues to be an issue in old age. I felt sluggish and awkward, watching others lope effortlessly by me on the hot pavement. It always feels great to finally settle at my desk in air-conditioned comfort.

Last night we went to the Lake Theater & Cafe in L.O. to see the Nashville Cats. They performed as four individuals, three men and one woman, each showing a unique, acoustic style. It was too hot and too late to see the second half for a bunch of old people, although at least three of the four musicians were older than our group. My close friend, who suggested the show, reminded me of a performance we went to back in the 80’s during one of my Portland visits. At that time in ancient history, Jon Koonce lead chair of the current day Nashville Cats, fronted the popular local band Johnny & The Distractions at a bar called Frankenstein’s AKA Sack’s Front Avenue. We may have also seen the group Seafood Mama, later known as Quarterflash, at that popular location. (See Post #532).

Out late last night as we were, I missed the live broadcast of the Home Run Derby battle at the All-Star Game won by hometown hero, Bryce Harper. He beat my favorite Cub Kyle Schwarber in the final round, while teammate Javy Baez lost his first round match to Max Muncy of the Dodgers. I recorded the event to watch this morning along with Stage 10 of the Tour de France. The dogs seem to be in no hurry to go outside in the heat, as temperatures in the upper 90’s continue again today. After all the rain we have here, it’s a welcome reminder of our years in Austin, Texas. We have guests from there arriving in town over the next few days to attend Outstanding in the Field, the premiere farm-to-table event. (See Post #178). This will be our 6th such outdoor dinner extravaganza in the last 7 years, having sold our coveted Austin tickets to this very couple when we couldn’t attend due to our move here to Portland. They have made it a destination event in their lives since they used our tickets four years ago. We’ll return to Austin for the first time since we left to attend their wedding in early September.