I hit the road seven days in a row for the first time in more than a year. I hope to get out everyday this month, for at least a mile as I try to run off 15 or 20 pounds. To be honest, it’s the first time I’ve ever really been interested in creating a daily streak. Over the years, I’ve just tried to get out at least a few times a week every month since I got back to running. I picked up running again mostly for my physical health.
But now, I find running is a part of my mental and social health as well. I like getting out into my neighborhood, my city and my world for runs. It makes me feel more connected to and a part of our community, which is I admit a bit counterintuitive, because generally I run alone.
So, while I do want to see my times improve, I mostly just like getting out, letting my feet beat out a rhythm, feel the touch of the wind and sun on my face and skin and feel my muscles working. I love seeing the neighborhood wake up, or going to bed or sometimes just jogging through the stillness of the place in an afternoon. I like seeing other people out walking or jogging. Most people I’ve seen have been wearing masks. I wear a gaiter when I run and avoid running near people, often crossing to the other side of the street when I see them.
I’ve started branching out and hitting other parts of the city — mostly because my neighborhood is extremely hilly so every once in a while I like to find a flatter place to run.
So far, seven days run, and three pounds down.
Shoe Update
Last week, if you checked out Chalk Creek Writing Outfit and Running Club, you know I was thinking about adding another pair of shoes to rotate with my Saucony Guides. Well, I opened my wallet and did buy a pair from my local running shop, Eclipse Running. (They also have a pizza place that’s fantastic!)
Anyway, after a chat and trying out some shoes, I went with the Kinvara 11 and plan on using them for faster paced runs and possibly races. Because they are a different drop than the Guide, I’m only going out for short runs in them and only once a week until I get used to them.
Keep on running. Keep on writing.
Chalk Creek Writing Outfit 