Best Run

Photo info: Apple iPhone 12 mini, 4.2mm, f/1.6, 1/750 sec, ISO32
“New Shoes” Cedar Park, 2023

Today I had one of the best runs ever. It started off just like any other, even a bit too cold for me, but soon I was just cruising along. I had so much energy, and the songs that were appearing from my playlist were perfect. A mix of energetic, nostalgic, and feel-good. I was smiling almost the whole run!

Photo info: Apple iPhone 12 mini, 4.2mm, f/1.6, 1/1700 sec, ISO32
“Railway” Cedar Park 2023

In fact, I waved at pretty much all the runners that I saw. I think the combination of morning coffee and two day’s worth of mashed potatoes and stuffing gave me a ton of energy, and I didn’t feel any aches or pains other than the normal muscle soreness. My shoulder usually starts hurting at about 6 miles, but I didn’t feel any pain the whole run!

Photo info: Apple iPhone 12 mini, 4.2mm, f/1.6, 1/3200 sec, ISO32
“Open Road” Cedar Park, 2023

I’m not a fast runner, but today I felt like I was on cruise control. It was lik my second wind kicked in early and never let up. I guess I was experiencing the proverbial runner’s high as well, and I only stopped for drink of water and to stretch.

I mentioned that the music was perfect today, and one of the songs that gave me the most energy was Venus by Hitomi. And I realized that playing the air drums while running is so much fun! 😂

I honestly can’t remember a better run that today’s. It felt so good. And I ended up setting a half-marathon PR. Woohoo!!

Photo info: Apple iPhone 12 mini, 2.71mm, f/2.2, 1/560 sec, ISO25
“Running Selfie” Round Rock, 2023

Cooler Weather for Running

Photo info: Apple iPhone 12 mini, 4.2mm, f/1.6, 1/1000 sec, ISO32
“Leggings” Cedar Park, 2023

Despite the recent rain, I was able to go for a run today. The weather was in the 50s, which is chilly for me, so I had to wear my old leggings. I’m definitely not a fan of cold weather! 😆

In other running news, my current On Running shoes have over 500 miles on them so I need to think about switching over to some new ones. Luckily REI had their semi-annual 20%-off sale for members so I ordered a new pair of Cloudgo shoes. They should arrive soon and I’ll wait until I put another 100 miles on my current shoes before switching. I think the “experts” recommend about 400-500 miles, but since I’m on the smaller side, I think an extra hundred or two will be okay. Right? 😀

Long Run/Walk

Photo info: Apple iPhone 12 mini, 4.2mm, f/1.6, 1/640 sec, ISO32
“Sunrise” Cedar Park, 2023

I woke up early this morning to beat the heat and go for my weekly long run. The cool air and the lack of people on the trail made for a peaceful and relaxing run. I’ve noticed that it’s been a bit more difficult to run long distances since I had COVID a few weeks ago, but my stamina is slowly coming back, which is a good feeling!

Photo info: Apple iPhone 12 mini, 4.2mm, f/1.6, 1/2700 sec, ISO32
“Morning Trail” Cedar Park, 2023

I took it easy today and walked for a good portion of my August 22.1 km half-marathon, completing it at a leisurely 8:49/km pace. That’s pretty slow, but I’m happy to have finished it nonetheless. 😀

Photo info: Apple iPhone 12 mini, 4.2mm, f/1.6, 1/640 sec, ISO32
“Lake” Cedar Park, 2023