The day was slow to unfold. I didn’t plan to sleep in late; the time off of work has altered my internal clock. When I finally left the bed, I retreated to the downstairs and spent the morning in my PJ’s reading the blogs and drinking coffee. That was when I discovered that Jeanne was in her PJs too.
I thought of posting about my wasting the day away in my Grandma’s old flannel PJs, but I had a things to do. Running at the open space preserve was at the top of my list.
I exchanged the two small Under Armor shirts that I received as Christmas gifts. They were wonderful gifts however the fact that I sleep in flannel PJs should be a clue that I retain a little modestly. I don’t like the skin-tight look of Under Armor so I settled for a new jogbra and a Nike running shirt with a cool thumb hole thing that keeps the long-sleeve down over your fingers. It was the perfect shirt for this blustery day, so I was off for my run.
I realize that it seems silly to run with music while running in a place so lovely and out in nature. Nothing compares to the sounds of the great outdoors. But I really enjoy running to music, so I brought along myPod with the musical score to the movie “We Are Marshall.” The music was a wonderful match to the beautiful would all around me.
There were people all over the trails as I ran out towards the farm. The looks and smiles that people were giving me indicated an acknowledgement of my peace and happiness to be out there. I guess they were feeling the joy too.
I left civilization behind, as I turned onto the single-track portion of the run. I counted the switchbacks as I made my climb upwards. About halfway up, there was a downed tree blocking the trail. I crawled through the branches to the other side and continued on. My breathing was heavy and my heartrate was rapid as I ascended. I focused on the beauty all around me, and the soothing music coming from myPod. It seemed to work. Before I knew it, I was making the last turn and, therefore, ending the switchbacks.
I examined the trail signs, trying to determine my next move. My foot was holding up nicely and the day was amazing. I headed right in the direction of, what I thought was, the longer way back.