I did not over indulge the holiday feeding spirit. After staying up and watching George Michael, and a couple of other concerts I got up and had a good breakfast of my usual 2 slices of raisin bread with what else; peanut butter. With a side order of low fat cottage cheese topped with peach slices, with a bottle of Danactive.
The first run of 2013 would be a little longer than my usual. I took a peek at the outdoor thermostat to see what’s in store for my first run of the 2013 winter, not too bad, -6C and sunny. It’s going to be a great run.
I need two layers and a jacket with sun glasses. Before I could slip out the door the temperature jumped up to 0C; off with the jacket down to one base layer. Grabbed my IPod Nano and I head off to run the waterfront trail to do 18K. The ground was clear of most of the snow and ice and what was left was melting to puddles of water. I decide to take an alternate route to avoid the rough trail to the lake that is bound to still be frozen in the shade of the forest. I would have to make up the distance and the run out as it turns out to be a short cut.
The run along the waterfront trail was wonderful, bright morning sun with a hint of a breeze. 15 minutes into the run I could not believe I was seeing so many people carrying towels to the waterfront. I could not make out what was going on. I had to pay close attention to my foot steps as I made my run through the crowds making their way to the water. I hear a loud voice call out about the swimming distance! What a winter dip, must be for charity and cleansing the soul.
I continued my run out to Lakeridge Road and checked my distance and continued north until I got to the 9k mark and paused for a water break and chocolate gel. The run home was great and I knew there was a hot pot of home-made soup on the burner, I could hardly wait.
My legs were feeling great with no lack of energy at the ¾ of the run complete. The wind picked up to challenge me as I switched to the Lake Road running against the small amount of traffic and made my way home.
Yes! A great day 1 for 2013.
