The hills around Thacher have become bleak, the November sky painting everything gray. The trails are stunning. The muted golds and reddish browns that surround me are complemented by the crisp air.

I made my friend come running with me. His shoes kick up the dust ahead of me. I quicken my stride as I hit a steep hill. As I climb, my muscles burn, the remains of the cross country meet on Wednesday coming back to me. Cross country has ended, but I’m still at it for now.

The views of Thacher and the Ojai valley below me preoccupy my mind as I run. I feel elevated above the bustle of daily life. My thoughts wander so freely.  The range of topics is broad enough to cover how long of a shower I might have when I get back, and whether to get chocolate, vanilla, or swirl soft serve from the dining hall.  I choose swirl. But, as I take another step with my mind in the cafeteria, I fall. The ground catches me, as it usually does. Dust covers the palms of my hands. The sneakers in front of me stop. I get up. And as Ben looks forward again, I change my mind. I think I’ll have chocolate.