Many of you know that I like to run marathons.

If you don’t, well now you do.

I’m running my second (and final) marathon of the Fall season in Philadelphia on Sunday.

Yippee!

Lots and lots of miles, running through neighborhoods from Red Hook to Washington Heights.

For those of you who would like to help me up my fundraising for the American Cancer Society, feel free to click here to contribute.

There’s satisfaction in raising money for an organization which so obviously raises awareness of a disease affecting us all- and gives lots of money to stop it.

This year I’ve had two family members have surgeries to remove cancer.

Not pretty- so every little thing I can do, I’ll do.
The running of course serves so many needs.

My need to get out into the world and look around, which running does in a more “microwave” version than just walking.

I can see more this way, more quickly.

I get to feel in shape, which running 800 miles in 6 months will also help you do.

Apparently, when I’m training, I’m much more fun to be around, so says my wife- although I think she’s just being nice.

Of course, my real estate brain, while partially turned off during runs (at least the part that answers the phone- since I leave my blackberry at home), does soak in the neighborhoods.

I witness urban landscapes

when they are quiet- dog walkers, overtired

parents with their young children, 20-something partiers on their way home from late

Friday nights-

I’ve watched Williamsburg grow, Long Island City explode, West Harlem teeter and then settle down, Riverside South (59-72nd on the west side) truly blossom.

There is probably a more enjoyable way of viewing this development, but I haven’t yet found one.