8 Mile Hike

By MJ

So yesterday I took the plunge. I jumped full force into my training. After several 3 mile hikes spread over 3 months, I decided I needed to push myself and get back on the real training schedule. I’ve adapted it to fit my schedule… but have all the “required” walks included. I’ll post the schedule soon, and you can RSVP to join me on the hikes you want to

Anyway I refused to let the rainy day ruin my walk, so I waited until 6pm and the weather was great. Humid! but sunny and at time had some great breezes.  For those of you in my area… I walked from Western Reserve Rd to Shields and back again.  Technically I started at the trailhead, hiked north to Herbert Rd (Shields) then headed South all the way to Western Reserve, then returned North to the trail end.

According to map my run it was actually 8.28 miles and it took me 3 hours and 13 minutes. But in that time includes a restroom stop, and a leisurely stroll through some of the areas, taking in the surroundings and taking some pictures. It’s hard to believe that some of these were taken right in this area. See all the photos here.

I learned(remembered) a few things on my hike.

• 20 miles is FAR. 8 miles had my muscles burning, and my feet hurting. I need to train A LOT MORE and A LOT MORE SERIOUSLY if I’m going to make it in July.
• I need to find some new socks- and lots of them. My good running socks were cushy but almost too cushy, I think I need thinner socks — and several pairs to change them often. I’m thinking 5 miles is about the limit for my socks.
• I love walking in nature. Watching the birds, bunnies, Texas Longhorn cattle, and gophers.
• Unrelated to walking, but I remembered how much I LOVE taking photos of nature.
• I love being outside. (keep reminding me of this if I talk about being in the basement too much!!)

Here are a few of the pictures I took:

You can see more photos on my facebook page.