Exploring new paths

I've gotten two runs in this week while I'm working out in California.  That's a record!  If I run tonight, too, I just don't know how I'll cope! ;)

I always find it fun to explore new areas on my runs and bike rides.  I usually plan out a route when I'm training for a particular distance or time.  But sometimes I just go out for a run and let myself take that little path that I ran by last week or go down that cute street with the flowers along the walk.

My run last night was kind of like that.  Not only did I run in an unfamiliar town, but I deviated from the one bike path that I know and let myself roam where the sunshine led me.  It feels so freeing to do that sometimes.  I enjoyed the fragrant bushes as I ran up a quaint neighborhood street.  I passed kids learning to play soccer as I circled a local park.  I learned that the corner grocery store is out of business.

The hubby back home has been doing some exploring of his own.  He and a friend took off on mountain bikes a couple days ago and let themselves wander down barely-there paths in the woods.  They returned home with muddy bikes and itchy legs, but they are eager to go back and go farther.  I can't wait to join them when I get home!

Thank goodness for letting go of expectations and just running free.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Short Run
3 Miles

Wednesday, June 22, 2011
30 minutes Fartleks plus 10 minutes easy
4.3 Miles total