Friends and Fresh Air: Am I still riding the adrenaline of registering or is training really going to be this easy?

(265 days to go)

I recognized that accomplishing 60 miles of walking in 3 days would not be possible (at least for me) without my many walking buddies from the start. I would never have clicked send on my registration, never publicly declared my commitment, never turned an idea into action, were it not for the knowledge that I have this secret weapon - the ability to locate a walking companion for any challenge level, at any time, in any weather.

Pre-Crystal Cove walk with Becky, Susan, Monica, Laurel, and Debbie

The remarkable Debbie (who has committed to join me on the third day of the Komen walk) organized a group to Crystal Cove this morning. She reminded us that it is possible to check out a California State Parks Pass from our local library, saving me $15, and lured us with the promise of a mimosa fueled brunch at the Beachcomber after we'd completed our miles.

Nature was putting on a show today. Crashing surf, cobalt skies, and soft winds greeted us. The tides were out, so we were able to search for sea anemones, starfish, and other critters in tide pools. Susan bravely tickled an anemone so we could watch it react - apparently trying to trap what it perceived as food.

Starfish

We scurried around on rocks and read messages left in the sand with a stick. Chloe Smith, if you read this, someone left you a note.

The seagulls and pelicans competed with each other to determine whose flying formations were the most well choreographed.

Birds showing off their skills

For those unfamiliar with Crystal Cove, nestled between California's Laguna and Newport Beaches, the enclave consists of cottages constructed in the 1920s. There are strict provisions limiting changes to the cottages that have preserved the resort community appearance largely as it was in the 20s. Families would retreat from the city to the beach each summer, with the menfolk joining their wives and children for the weekends. Each evening, adults would gather around the flag pole for cocktails and relaxing with cards and good conversation.

The Crystal Cove Conservancy, a 501(c)(3) organization, manages the cottage rentals (by lottery) and the dining options, providing an income to maintain the area, which has been designated a National Historic Site.

Following our walk, we were able to relax on the Beachcomber deck and watch families digging in the sand and playing in the surf, while enjoying kir royales, blueberry ricotta pancakes, and crab omelets.

Rewarding all of our steps with brunch at the Crystal Cove Conservancy's Beachcomber Cafe.

After our leisurely brunch, we had a short beach stroll and climb to our cars parked at the top of the bluff wrap up our field trip.

Imagine my surprise when, after this profoundly relaxing day, I looked at my mileage to discover I had somehow ambled 8.8 miles today! 20 miles in a day doesn't look so far off to me right now.