ON THE ROAD AGAIN.

In only the second time in weeks, I finally got outside for a run this morning. The temperature was above freezing (32), no wind, ice and snow melted finally, and the 3/4 moon gave enough visibility to be able to avoid the potholes.

It was about time too. I have finally reached my breaking point with the treadmill. After we got dumped on again last weekend with snow and ice, I was forced to take my long run to the treadmill again. I couldn't do it. I slogged through it, hating every minute of it, whining and complaining (only to myself), and wanting to tear my hair out from the monotony. Tuesday, another scheduled run day, I couldn't bring myself to step on that contraption again, even though it was snowing yet again. I just couldn't do it. I vowed then that this morning I would go outside to run. Naturally I was also hoping for a dry morning. It was perfect, if you can call cold and darkness perfect.

But the good things about running in the darkness? It doesn't matter what you look like. I don't have to comb my hair, put on makeup, or even have matched gloves. The darkness also seems to insulate how you are feeling on the run. Or maybe because no one can see whether you are feeling good or miserable, you aren't as aware yourself because you know no one is looking at you.

I always have to remember, though, that it takes longer to get a run in when going outside in this weather because of all the layers: tights over shorts; under armor shirt; wick-away shirt over that; headband; socks; 2 pair of stretchy gloves, none of which matched the other (one pink; one gray; one striped; one blue), and finally the illuminite jacket. That added on another 5 minutes at least getting into all that gear. And I have to admit, sometimes that is enough to deter me.

And today, I hardly saw anyone out, not running or dog walking, and then I realized it was actually earlier than usual because my schedule called for 4 miles. And I was more than ready to get out and get going by 6 am. It felt good, moving through the darkness, no ice, no slush, no wind. I have gained quite a bit of endurance running since late fall/early winter, so the treadmill runs have at least paid off there.

Tomorrow, hopefully, I can get one more good outside run in and then, once again, I will be on the road again, this time to sunny (hopefully!) Florida. An opportune chance to get away for some sun and relaxation, and later getting together with Shelley and her crew for a few days. So the next time I check in, I'll be walking in sunshine!