I must admit I’m embarrassed.

I always knew PB&J was the perfect running companion. But I thought it had something to with peanut butter and petroleum jelly. Only today did I discover what it actually stands for:

Pearl Bailey and Jam.

Today’s run was equal parts Bailey and Vedder. Maybe it was the juxtaposition of those voices. Possibly it was from eating a banana doused in picante sauce before the run. Could’ve been Day 2 of the Great Cabernet Sauvignon Drink-A-Thon. Skeptics might point to the weather, which seems to be 5 degrees cooler. But that’s sort of dull.

Plus for Vedder: Drop-dead gorgeous. Plus for Bailey: Doesn’t make me listen to her ukulele. I’m calling it a tie.

In any case, it was a fine run. Working at lengthening the stride, pushing a bit while staying in control and fighting the temptation to cha-cha at intersections. Continuing worry: Mr. ITBS gave me the first ice pick at about mile 2. Maybe drop Oggi and switch to Meb tomorrow and see it it helps. Cross fingers.

A good run, a good soundtrack, a banana that burns your mouth. Can’t ask for more than that.

I’ve got to feel my heart coming alive again
Before the parade passes by.