It’s Independence Day

We didn’t manage to get switched to a room on the ground floor, and I had no new plan to help me stay on Shaun T’s Insanity program. It being a Monday, the office park didn’t hold the same allure. I decided to man up and do the insane workout in the open hotel pool area. How embarrassing could it be? So, I loaded up my gear and went to get it over with as quickly as possible. As I strode across the parking lot it began to sprinkle. I’m not afraid of a little rain--cold weather yes--but not rain. However, I did have my brand spanking new DVD player, which I will need for other trips within the 60 days of the Insanity program.

So, I punted. Given it was a travel day I opted for a run in Independence (which is what I really wanted to do) and planned to complete the Insanity session when we arrived home later that night. What a great decision! Independence is a quintessential and charming middle America town with a little bit of everything. I ran through gently rolling hills enjoying the slight morning breeze.

I’m not sure if it was to attend regular classes or summer school, but kids filed out of their homes and desperately tried to look cool while standing on the corner waiting for the bus. As long ago as it was for me, I remember the feeling all too well. Much remains the same, except for most of theses students did look a tad cooler than I did at that age. Most of them had their cell phones and I Pods out and in use. It was the 80s before we could all afford a clunky Walkman, and pay phones were never the rage even when they were the only away-from-home communication option.

The rain never fully set in during the 4 plus mile run. I had no regrets. Along the way I saw a mom and pop video store that was still open for business. Now that brings back memories. Lots of local and independent businesses still dot the landscape of Independence. I delighted in seeing them and we patronized several over our short visit. A combination of clean air, wide open spaces and interesting surroundings made me appreciate that America is much more than one continuous shopping plaza linked from Atlanta to Los Angeles.

Thanks, Independence!

Tom