06 January 2013

No room at the inn...

Er, rather, no public restrooms.  Today being the Epiphany Sunday, and therefore the last day of the Christmas season, forgive me a final seasonal reference.  It was one of the first things that popped in my mind as I realized just how unfriendly many of the businesses are on the Broadneck Peninsula.

Last year I recall devoting space in a post to  reminding myself that, because one of my best running buddies was pregnant, that all running routes must contain access to restrooms.  I paid heed to this for all those long runs with her, however I have been less diligent on my own runs. 

Inevitably, a runner from time to time finds desperate need for a restroom during a training run.  That was me today about 2.5 miles into a long run....with no restroom in the vicinity.  There was a strip mall about a mile from where I was, I figured I could find one there.  No way.  Just about every business had a sign out that said "no public restroom"...including the motel.  I was miserable.  Finally I arrived at the McDonald's and have never been so happy to see the golden arches.

Once I was a happy camper again, I still had about 5.5 miles to go in my planned distance.  I had an enjoyable (new) route planned down through Amberley, which abuts some beautiful creek fronts.  The afternoon was warm, the vistas were inspirational and I was ready to get a moving.  The only thing that would have made it a better day would have been a couple of running buddies to share (the good parts) with.  Perhaps I can drag one of them out next week.

All things considered, the run ended on a high note and my ipod reminded me that I really am living, as One Republic says, "The Good Life."  I liked the route, my hamstrings are only moderately crabby and I hit my target miles for the week.  (Incidentally, my math was a bit off yesterday...I don't need 28 miles per week, I need 26 miles per week...so I'm now ahead).  Happy trails!!!

Stats -
Miles:  9.2
Time:   1:26:58 (average pace of 9:27 per mile)
Location:  Bay Head, College Parkway, Skidmore, Amberley
Feeling:  relieved...after a certain point

Other:  push-ups: 10/3600; squats: 25/3600; sit-ups: 80/12,000

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