I mapped out a new route for my 6 miles yesterday afternoon. I started from my apartment in West Seattle, and ended down at Alki--where I met Cory in front of Tully's. I started out heading South and then joined up with Beach Drive SW which eventually connects with Alki Beach Drive. It was a fantastic route. A nice combo of a couple of long hills, mixed with a few smaller more gradual inclines, and fairly flat surfaces.
Running a new route always makes the run seem longer to me--my mind absorbing all the new sights, sounds--even smells. I love the scenery along this path. There are fantastic views of the sound and amazing homes, but the "sidewalk" along the first mile or so of Beach Drive is more like an uneven paved ditch completely filled with leaves. I had to be really careful to avoid injury. Despite that, I probably will run this route again.
I started with a nice easy pace--I feel like I kept a pretty even pace throughout. Perhaps I picked up the pace a tad near the end. Cory downloaded some more tunes onto the mp3--I've discovered The Chemical Brothers and Moby are fantastic for running. As I finished the last mile of my run it was turning dark as I rounded from Beach Drive to Alki Drive. It was kind of a surreal moment with the last song on the Moby album playing. (I wish I knew the name of the song off the top of my head.) I finished in about an hour. I thought I might take a bit longer, but it was practically an hour on the dot.
There were tons of bikers, runners, and dog-walkers along the way. One thing I've been noticing as I run more outdoors is the camraderie between runners. Most people I pass by give a wave or a shout out. I even got a high five last week! I like that. I like that a whole lot.
Running in the crisp Fall weather is fantastic, however within 10 minutes after the run I am always FREEZING. Anyone who knows me well, knows I'm always cold, and it's certainly intensified after I've started to cool down after a run. I'm already looking forward to Spring. I may be doing a lot of runs on the boring old treadmill during the upcoming Winter months. We'll see.
The rest of the week is filled with 3-milers and soccer on Wednesday. (Only 3 more games and then I'm taking a hiatus until next Fall). Next Sunday includes another 6-miler.
1 comment:
Hey Miriam, it's Jennifer from the Ballard meeting. Just wanted to say nice blog and congrats on your milestone tonight! I am very inspired by your successes. I used to run myself and even managed to finish a marathon once (not really a world record at 4:47, but one of the best memories in my life!). I haven't run in years but hopefully someday I can start up a training program again like you have. Jessica and I agree that you're our hero :o) Good work!!
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