14.5 mile hike

We left for this hike under blue skies, bright sun but cool temperatures at about 9:30. This is the Round Valley Loop Bill has talked about quite a bit. Initially it follows the rail trail, but then veers to the left to pass by the national ability center. Some elevation on a muddy and winding trail through scrub oak and sage brush, then back down on more muddy trails. We ate our PB&J sandwiches at the playground on Old Ranch Road, where we have gone many times with Hanna and David. After only 2o minutes of rest we decided to continue on to finish the last 5 miles. The wind had picked up and I was rather cold. The legs and feet began hurting and it was time to get to the hottub. We arrived back at the Regency Plaza almost 5 hours after we left in the morning. This was a nice hike, but would have been more enjoyable in warmer weather. Nevertheless, we got a good workout and we once again found just in how bad a shape we are in. Tomorrow's high is supposed to be 37 - I am glad we went on this hike today and not tomorrow!