Thursday, January 7, 2010

Winter Running

Its been pretty cold lately here in Northern Virginia, almost too cold to jog. I feel like running in the winter months takes a certain kind of person, perhaps not as extreme as those who can jump through a hole cut in an iced over lake like they do in Russia, but it does take a certain amount of gumption. To me though, the crisp air and quiet solitude more than make up for the extra hassles that are involved. Careful layering, gloves and courage are all that is needed. Those who take up New Years resolutions to start running again for personal reasons probably think its crazy to run outside when warm gyms are available!

I have a number of nice circuits in the large park behind my house. Some take me to the creek where there is a nice waterfall, others follow the cross country horse-back riding trails, but all offer a nice variety of terrain. I like to think of the park as my little retreat from the hustle and paved-over metropolis that is Northern Virginia. Even better though, is getting back home after a cold run. A nice, wholesome home-cooked meal with a delicious beverage and then relaxing is about the best thing that a man can ask for!

Snows in the forecast tonight, perhaps there'll be might be enough for a ski tour tomorrow!

No comments: