Good runs...

Today and yesterday included a couple of good runs. A good run equals one in which I don't hurt myself. :)

Seriously though, K called me at work around 1pm yesterday indicating that he was changing his plan to go run on the Greenbelt during lunch. Instead, I suggested that I run home to get my running gear then we could meet directly after work to get an hour run in. The weather was just right for running with the proper clothing on (I tend to overdress so I was happy that I got it just right last night). K and I met at the 360 access and quickly ended up running separately. I wore my headphones again and enjoyed my own private concert through the woods. I ran to the Spyglass access and then made my way back just before it started to get dark. I felt great - physically and mentally. Trail running is good for the soul. Afterwards, we had dinner at Rudy's. What more could I ask for in an evening?

Tonight was our first Thursday night workout with the Jemez group. We were focusing on hills, as I expect that we will be throughout the program. Robert had a short loop mapped out for us near the HOL and 50kers ran it 4 times. The first time I ran it very cautiously, the second time I felt much more comfortable, but it was dark for the third and fourth times that I ran it so it was just about running as well as I could in the dark. I got to run with Jim and Jeanette, so I didn't get lost which is always a plus. I definitely need a brighter light though to get through the next month or so of these workouts in the dark because my measly headlamp just was not doing the trick. I even grabbed K's (in addition to mine) as I set out on my final loop. My legs felt really good and I know I could have it pushed it more if I wasn't so worried about navigating my way through the darkness. I see many more HOL repeats in my future...

After the workout, we quickly headed out to catch the official Austin watch party of Hell's Kitchen at The Warehouse. I work closely with the mother of one of the contestants so it's been interesting to hear about their experiences with the show. They had a good turnout of folks at the watch party and are looking forward to doing it again next week.

So, coming up this weekend is a trip out to Fredericksburg tomorrow night for our run at Enchanted Rock on Saturday morning. I'm looking forward to it.