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Book of the Month – Chasing Twilight: A Joy Journal for Runners by Adam Kimble, Connor Crouch, and Jim O’Brien

October 28, 2021 by Aude Hofleitner Leave a Comment

This month, I was excited by a book which just got published in early October. Well, it’s not “just” a book, it’s a book and a journal and more importantly a source of smiles, inspiration and reflection. If you haven’t yet, it’s time to get your hands on it!

This is the first book from local pro runner Adam Kimble, co-written with Connor Crouch and Jim O’Brien. Besides the usual book summary, this month features an interview with Adam who has graciously offered his time to answer my numerous questions. You may remember Adam from his discussion with Chris Cloyd and Helen Pelster after both he and Helen set FKTs on the Tahoe Rim Trail.

Chasing Twilight -- Book cover

This is a very enjoyable and quick read. You can also think about it as a book to leave on your bedside table or coffee table, ready to pick up at any time to read (and re-read!) entries at random. The book is organized as a journal with entries from the three authors that describe their feelings around life, their runs, their motivation, the changing seasons and the weather (as any runner would ha ha!!). The book brings a lot of smiles and motivation and makes you want to go out and run, and run, and run, and then stop to listen to the birds and the silence of nature or revel as the seasons change. Reading it just before bed, the short entries made me want to keep on reading, one more and one more.

I particularly enjoyed relating to the emotions and feelings shared by the authors. While each author brings their own experience, style and voice, there are also some shared themes around their common passion, the joy and challenges that it brings. To me, this highlighted how running has both very individual and unique experiences while also having universal experiences, likely what makes it so easy for runners to connect and start chatting away about our experiences (even with non-runners!!).

The book is also designed to be used as a journal, with lots of space for the reader to become writer and contribute their own story. I haven’t done that yet, but it may give me the inspiration to start journaling 😉

As I was reading, I had a million questions pop up in my mind about the book, the writing process. The amazing Adam enthusiastically agreed to answer my questions and share them with DPMR!

  • How is journaling influencing / changing your relationship with running?
    More than anything, journaling has helped me to capture and grow from the thoughts and inner conversations I have during a run. Rather than recognizing something meaningful and letting it pass, now I tend to write down those important revelations and allow them to have a greater, lasting impact on my life.

  • How regularly do you journal? What medium do you use? What do you like most about journaling?
    Just like we recommend in “Chasing Twilight,” I journal as often as I feel motivated! One of our goals was to take the pressure off of journaling a specific amount, so we removed the dates. You never feel like you’re pressured to journal if you’re not motivated to do it, but it’s always there when you are. The thing I love most about journaling is the ability to take an idea or situation in your life and allow written words to help you work though the situation more effectively. Sometimes the act of writing about something allows you to deepen your perspective on it.

  • What other forms of reflection or meditation do you practice?
    Typically, I let my solo runs act as my times of reflection and meditation! I feel the greatest sense of peace and clarity when I’m running. I also like to do some guided meditations.
  • What are your favorite entries in the book (from you and the other authors)? What makes them special?
    I apologize for taking the easy road on this, but every single entry in the book has an impact on me when I read it! That’s the beauty of it: there’s something there for everyone, either directly or tangentially. That said, here are three of my favorites (one from each author):
    “Ultrarunning”- Page 4 (Adam)
    “The Choice”- Page 8 (Connor)
    “Shelter”- Page 212 (Jim)

  • How do you see your future as an author (future books, articles, …)?
    I love writing! I write monthly blogs for my sponsor, Tahoe Mountain Realty, and occasionally for some of my other sponsors.  I’ve always wanted to author a book about some of the biggest moments in my life: traveling internationally for the entirety of 2015, running across the US in 2016, winning Discovery Channel’s “The Wheel” in 2016, and setting an FKT running across Great Britain in 2017. The process of writing “Chasing Twilight” has inspired me to take the next steps in that pursuit!

  • What was special about writing this in 2020?
    The odd thing about the timing of this journal is that we all began our journaling shortly before the start of the pandemic. Interestingly, however, the theme of what was happening in the world rarely steps into our writings. Running brings out the best in us, so in spite of the challenges going on in our lives during the time we wrote the journal, the joy of running was always the light shining the brightest!

  • The book both has some aspects of journaling but also takes some freedom from that format (no dates, no chronological order)? How did you decide on the format? How did you think about ordering the stories?
    We did our best to organize the writings into the four parts, which are meant to emulate parts of a run: Warm-Up, Tempo, Flowy and Cool-Down. Nothing ever fits perfectly, but many of the entries fit pretty well into one of these four categories.

  • How did you organize your writing? Would you write several entries when you had more inspiration? Keep the “one entry a day” or “one entry a run”? Is each entry tied to a specific run?
    Speaking for myself, I simply wrote once per day for about three months, and then I combined those entries with the work that Jim and Connor had done. I wrote exclusively after I ran, because that was always when I had the most thought-provoking ideas or the most interesting revelations. Some days I was much more inspired than others, but even on the more mundane days, it seemed that there was always a lesson to be gleaned from my run or the experience I had that day. 

  • How much did you go back and edit vs. leave the initial writing?
    It was certainly a healthy dose of both! Collaborating with our publisher, Round Table Companies, we edited all of our entries over the course of several months. The editing was always to make the writing stronger, but inevitably, in the pursuit of improving the writing, it was common to tweak the actual content as well. 

  • How has the writing changed your relationship with Connor, and Jim?
    All three of us were good friends before the ‘Chasing Twilight” journey began, but the biggest change in our relationship from my perspective was simply gaining a greater appreciation for our shared passion. Reading their writings inspired me so much and gave me so much to think about! That’s my favorite aspect of our journal: three authors (with unique voices) at three different stages of life, living in three different areas of the country, all writing about the same love of running! 

  • I have my thoughts from reading the journal, but maybe as a spoiler… what is your favorite season?
    Did I give myself away? I’ve always loved autumn/fall the best! Cool, crisp mornings, leaves changing colors, and the perfect running weather!

About Adam

Adam Kimble is a professional ultrarunner, motivational speaker, running coach, race director and amateur survivalist from Tahoe City, CA.  Adam played Division-1 baseball at Bradley University prior to developing his passion for ultrarunning.

After graduation in the summer of 2009, he ran his first ever 5k race near his hometown of Minooka, IL. The race resulted in very bad cramps and a lot of pain, but fortunately it also came with a second-place age group finish! Once the pain subsided, Adam decided his racing days weren’t done, and he trained to complete his first half marathon in 2011. After completing his first ultramarathon (50k) in 2014, the question became “what else is my body and mind capable of?” Following the Fastest Known Time (FKT) ever on the 171-mile Tahoe Rim Trail, a 60-day transcontinental crossing of the USA (2,500 miles), seven podium finishes in 100-mile races, and a 31-day self-supported FKT across Great Britain, the limits are nowhere close to being reached.

Follow Adam’s adventures on his website and Instagram (@adamkimble818)

Filed Under: General Tagged With: book, running inspiration

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2023 Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon

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Join us on Aug 5, 2023!
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Oct
3
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 3 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
Oct
5
Thu
5:30 pm Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Oct 5 @ 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Join us for for Thursday evening speedwork for runner’s of all levels in Coldstream Canyon, Truckee. Run starts at 6pm.  Workout will be about an hour and can be adjusted to your level. Keep an[...]
Oct
10
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 10 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
Oct
12
Thu
5:30 pm Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Oct 12 @ 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ Coldstream Canyon Truckee
Join us for for Thursday evening speedwork for runner’s of all levels in Coldstream Canyon, Truckee. Run starts at 6pm.  Workout will be about an hour and can be adjusted to your level. Keep an[...]
Oct
17
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 17 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
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dpmrunners

Join @healdsburgrunningcompany for a run (and plen Join @healdsburgrunningcompany for a run (and plenty of fun)!

📍 : @donnerskiranch 
⏰ : Saturday September 16th, 8am
🏃‍♀️ 🏃‍♂️ : Judah Loop and continue on the PCT.
Run the Judah loop for ~6 miles, continue to Anderson peak for ~13miles (or further on the PCT if you want to go longer)
🗺️ : https://www.strava.com/routes/3135724872218937730
🎉 : Rejoin at the Donner Ski Ranch Old 40 Bar & Grill after the run (and there may be some sweeeeet giveaways...).
🙋‍♀️ : The Judah Loop is a trail adopted and actively maintained by DPMR as part of @truckeetrails' Adopt a Trail program

#unafraid #trailrunning #runningcommunity #runninglife #runningmotivation #donnerpartymountainrunners #tahoe #tahoerunners #mountainrunners #DPMR #TruckeeTahoeTrailRunning #WeRunTrails #ultrarunning #lakesonoma #lakesonoma100k
Who's psyched for the Pt Mariah Trail Marathon TOM Who's psyched for the Pt Mariah Trail Marathon TOMORROW?!! DPMR is so excited to bring you this second edition of the race that promises to be bigger and better than last year! RD Chris Cloyd and team have been working so hard all week with final prep. The course is in great shape with some beautiful fun flowy singletrack. He said he'd love a few more volunteers so checkout the signup genius on our volunteer page, but otherwise wants everyone to please come hang out, cheer, and join the party! 
Unique to this race is the 5 segment course that utilizes a central aid station and can be done as a 2 person or 5 person relay, in addition to challenging yourself to run the whole thing solo!
Registration is still OPEN in person until 6pm tonight with bib pick-up at @tahoemountainsports with reg remaining open online til 1159pm. Race day bib pickup available in the morning 6-730am. No Race Day Reg. 

Thanks to our amazing sponsors this year, every participant will be eligible for a prize giveaway and get a pair of @darntoughvermont socks and @drinklmnt hydration.

#unafraid #trailrunning #runningcommunity #runninglife #runningmotivation #donnerpartymountainrunners #tahoe #tahoerunners #mountainrunners #DPMR #TruckeeTahoeTrailRunning #WeRunTrails #ultrarunning #trailmarathon #trailrace #pointmariah #pointmariahtrailmarathon
Hey DPMRers!  We’ve got something special in th Hey DPMRers!  We’ve got something special in the works.  We’ve been collaborating with Alibi Ale Works to release a co-branded beer (YES!).   Join us for a social run next Tuesday, where we'll have the pleasure of running alongside Alibi's head brewer, Matt Garcia! We'll hit the trails together, and afterward, we'll gather at Alibi to brainstorm the perfect brew that represents our club.  And since the DPMR Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon is just around the corner, we're adding some extra fun to the mix. We'll also be assembling course markings during the event. It's going to be an unforgettable night! Hope to see you there!
🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Calling All Running Ent 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Calling All Running Enthusiasts! Join Us in Supporting the DPMR Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️
The Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon is just around the corner, and we need YOUR help to make it a roaring success! 🌟 This incredible event brings together the running community and showcases the determination and passion of athletes from all walks of life. Now, we are seeking volunteers to be an essential part of this memorable experience!
📅 Event Date: August 5th
⏰ Volunteer Dates: Several different shifts available from August 2nd - August 6th
🤝 We firmly believe that it takes a village to organize events like these, and YOU can be a crucial part of this vibrant community effort! No prior experience is required—just bring your enthusiastic spirit, and we'll guide you every step of the way.
📍 Positions Available:
1️⃣ Course Marking: Help ensure that the runners stay on track and have a smooth route to follow.
2️⃣ Finish Line Support: Cheer on our amazing athletes as they cross the finish line and celebrate their achievements.
3️⃣ Course Marshals: Guide and assist participants at key points along the trail, offering encouragement and direction.
4️⃣ Timing Assistance: Play a vital role in accurately recording race times and ensuring accurate results.
... and more! There are plenty of opportunities to contribute to the success of the marathon.
🌟 Not only will you have a fantastic time being part of this incredible event, but you'll also have the chance to bond with fellow running enthusiasts, make new friends, and create lasting memories.
💪 Together, let's show the world the power of community and support in making this marathon an unforgettable experience for everyone involved!
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR!
Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! Link in bio.
Thanks to everyone who came out and volunteered at Thanks to everyone who came out and volunteered at the Diamond Peak aid station this weekend at the Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs.  Everyone out on the course really appreciated all of the support!!! Stay tuned, we will be posting the Volunt(hero) leaderboard soon!  In the meantime, we're seeking more incredible volunteers to join our team at the upcoming Pt. Mariah trail marathon, and we promise it'll be an experience you won't forget! 😄
Sign up today! No experience needed. Link in bio.
The heat is on! Our Volunt(hero) program is going The heat is on! Our Volunt(hero) program is going strong with more than 60 volunteers out helping runners get through our various aid stations this year. What is the Volunt(hero) program? The top 10 DPMR volunteers with the most hours logged in 2023 will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win free race entries for a year, up to $1000. We will be posting our leaderboard soon but only a few hours separate those at the top.  Adding a shift can catapult you in to one of the coveted top 10 spots to be included in the raffle.  So come and join us THIS WEEKEND out at TRT! There are still openings overnight, morning clean up Sunday, and sweeps for TRT (Double points for morning clean up).
All volunteers that work at least one 6 hour shift will be entered in to our lottery for a race entry in to the 2024 TRTER race. You get one entry for each 6 hour shift you work. Overnight shifts get a bonus with two entries! Winners of the lottery can choose the distance but 100 milers still must have a qualifying race.
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR! 🔥🔥🔥
Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! 🙏🏻 Link in bio for more info!
Meet DPMR Board President, Diane Frederic! Diane h Meet DPMR Board President, Diane Frederic! Diane has been a DPMR member since the inaugural year (2014).  She has been a board member for 5 years with the last 3 at the helm. Diane loves a good joke and believes life is a whole lot better if you don’t take things too seriously.  She also believes that trail time is best shared with dogs and friends. And friends with dogs.  Diane is a recovering graphic designer but will come out of retirement for a good race logo opportunity (thank the cosmic forces for that!). Diane will be out on the course for the TRT100 next weekend - so if you see her out there, give her a big hello and high-five! Good luck Diane! #unafraid #dpmr #girlboss #100miler #paincave #yougotthis
Hey friends! DPMR is on the hunt for a trail-runni Hey friends! DPMR is on the hunt for a trail-running-obsessed artist extraordinaire to transform our boring old 3D foam sign for Pt. Mariah into a mind-blowing piece of art. Picture this: foam sculpture meets artistic genius equals immortalizing Pt. Mariah in your artistry.  The project consists of 30” letters, which are 4” thick, and spell Pt. Mariah.  The letters can be picked up in Truckee after Jul 3rd and need to be complete by August 3rd. This is a commissioned project with a budget of $500. 

Are you ready to unleash your creative beast? Then don't hesitate! Slide into our DMs faster than a trail runner chasing a PR. Don't miss out on this opportunity to create something truly legendary.
The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs are almost here The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs are almost here!!  Please consider volunteering with us.  We have many shifts available from Friday, July 14th through Sunday, July 16th! 
All volunteers that work at least one 6 hour shift will be entered in to our lottery for a race entry in to the 2024 TRTER race. You get one entry for each 6 hour shift you work. Overnight shifts get a bonus with two entries! Winners of the lottery can choose the distance but 100 milers still must have a qualifying race.
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR! 🔥🔥🔥

Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! 🙏🏻
Link in bio for more information. 

P.S. If you are racing, let us know so we can cheer you on!!
What are you waiting for? Register today to take p What are you waiting for? Register today to take part in a unique, fun, multi-loop style course with five segments that tour different parts of the Royal Gorge land. Race solo, with a partner, or as a 5-person team!  There is something for everyone! Register today! Link in bio.
Congratulations to Courtney Dauwalter on absolutel Congratulations to Courtney Dauwalter on absolutely shattering the women’s course record at Western States 100 today! Such an inspiration to all. We know you are the GOAT but tell us the truth Courtney… is your secret weapon the DPMR pancakes?!?
Huge congrats to Tom Evans for his win at Western Huge congrats to Tom Evans for his win at Western States 100 just now. Incredible performance landing him the 4th fastest time in the history of the event!  Well done Tom!
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