There are many things I wish were different in this world. I wish I didn't have as much a sweet tooth. I wish I actually liked the taste of certain food items that are better for me to eat. I wish I enjoyed and could drink coffee without it tearing up my insides. But there is one thing I don't wish, I don't wish I was tough enough to have run all my normal running days over the weekend. Because running in sub zero temperatures just isn't good for you, and trying to prove your toughness by doing so is just plain foolishness.
As a result of that serious arctic blast (which I thought was going to have some effect just din't realize how much) the only workout I got for most of last week was shoveling snow. Which was actually a very good work out by the way, but still not the same for me as my regular 3 miles.
So it was with great joy that I got wrapped up and ventured out yesterday and repeated the trip today. I can handle single digit temperatures, with the one concession being I cut short my warm up walk (walking isn't fast enough to warm me up when it is that cold.) I wasn't fast, but then again I am not that fast to begin with. And running on snow is a decent workout, almost like a good hard packed beach. But the important thing is I got out there and ran, getting back in my routine.
Last night I was reminded of one of the perks of all this running. I went to the season ending banquet/awards ceremony for the Grand Prix series. Which was the series of long races I ran this year. And this was the first year I was able to complete the series (no vacation or illnesses caused me to miss one.) So I went and stood around watching football and occasionally chatting with a couple of the guys about the game. And when the time came I got this:
Note the second place finish in the age group! I'll be honest that isn't hugely impressive when you consider that only something like 28 men finished the long series. But I'll take it, the key thing is that I did it, have something to show for it, plus a neat pair of fingerless gloves. Because, while I don't run for first place or prizes (good thing considering how slow I am), it is nice to get that recognition for all the work.
And now I can focus on getting back into the routine, and hopefully the weather will not deter me for so many days in a row.
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