A Lovely Little Run at Deception Pass State Park

It’s been a few weeks since my last post, and like many people, I’ve been swept up in all of the insanity extra things that the holiday season brings. More fun social events, more obligations, more excuses to eat cookies, less daylight, and the slightly dazed feeling that you’re on a sparkly, carol-blasting, cookie-driven ride out of your control. (No? Just me? Okay.) 😉

I’m also still treating some hamstring tendinopathy (with a great PT at Real Rehab in Seattle), which is holding back my running a bit. It’s a bummer because running is generally my pressure valve for busy times.) I’m exceedingly grateful that I still can run at all, but it’s what I call “normal people mileage” – 15-20 miles a week. (Versus “crazy/ultrarunner mileage” which is in the 40+ miles a week range.) It’s tough to train for an ultra on such low mileage, but it’s certainly better than nothing. Also, I’d rather take it easy to get better so I’m solid for next year’s adventures! Anyway, I’ve been doing easy runs at Green Lake, mostly early morning or evening… so in the dark, and on the road. Not my favorite, but again, I’m happy to do it at all.

This past weekend I volunteered at the Deception Pass 50K. It was a very brisk morning, with frost on the sand and driftwood on the beach. Perfect day for the racers!

We’ve had a beautiful week of cold, but clear weather – quite the difference from the gray, wet, blanket that usually envelopes the PNW this time of year. Anyway, following my volunteering stint, I went for a little run with some friends – Chris, Bernhard, and cute Jane dog!

It’s been the first real trail run that I’ve had since Javelina Jundred! The first few steps on the trail were wonderful and I felt a rush of gratitude and contentment. I didn’t realize how much I’d missed being out on the trails!!! It was such a contrast from the dark road miles I’ve been doing lately. It was beautiful out, with frost on everything, and the clear winter sun coming through the trees. Amazing. I was so happy.

We went just 6 miles, but it was wonderful. I really wished I could do more, but knew I shouldn’t push my hamstring. I was very grateful for the miles that I had gotten out there with friends!

I’m not sure what my hamstring will have in store for me in the next few weeks, but I’m hopeful it’ll continue to improve so I can really get back out on the trails. Because they’re the absolute BEST. <3