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.

Oh yeah.. Now I Remember

By MJ

I had forgotten why I loved walking (jogging) outside. Today’s walk reminded me. It was a very brisk 36 degrees when I left the house. My goal was to walk my “easy 3 miles” that was the training for today. Well when it’s only 36 it’s kinda tough to take a light stroll, so I’m sure I pushed myself a little more than I was supposed to. But the views were gorgeous. I have a park right by my house and I hiked down to the walking trail. The exhilaration that comes from walking in the cold makes me understand why the Winter Olympians might be willing to deal with the crazy weather to compete. The cold wakes you up- it makes you feel alive- it gives you energy — it makes you want to move! (and it’s always great to get the benefit of sweating without being hot!) Of course I was also listening to my favorite band, Great Big Sea- and my favorite songs of theirs. The park was near empty so it was very quiet. In fact so quiet that I almost missed the 6 deer that were munching near by. That’s right – SIX. Can you see them all?

Yes, I know it's blurry - I was moving...

I was pleased with my first day of official training – 50.05 mins, 3 miles.
Food wise – today was ok. I didn’t eat anything I wasn’t supposed to, however I didn’t eat everything that I WAS supposed to. My stomach is kinda feeling weird right now.. but I’m hoping a good night’s sleep will cure whatever it is. My feet are a bit tender. I injured the soles of my feet on Dec 26. This is the first time since Jan 2 that I’ve tested them out. I think I’ll be doubling my socks from now on.
I think I’m long overdue for an “early to bed” night. So goodnight.
p.s. I’m so excited – I’m up to 39 fans on Facebook for my PinkPear Page!