I scratched original plans to visit the gym today and put in just about 2 to 3 miles of speed work after my workout. I really didn’t feel like spending my time in a crowded gym. I wanted to be alone Instead on day 9 of my running streak. I decided on a nice little out-and-back in my favorite wilderness park, Aliso/Wood Canyons.
I took off with the melancholy blues. But as I made my struggle up Cholla, I began to lighten-up and enjoy the moment. Enjoy the sweat dropping off the ends of my hair. Enjoy the rocky terrain. Enjoy the blue skies. Enjoy that I wasn’t alone, though I was, as the park was crowded with hikers, runners and bikers. Others were out there struggling up and down these hills. Who were these people? I didn’t know a single one of them, yet it was sort of like we all knew each other. We didn’t talk. A simple head nod or smile did the trick to convey – “Yup, I’m crazy too.” Nah. I think it more conveyed, “Yup. I understand.”
Running up Cholla, biker cycling down:
Heading up Cholla, the world seems to transform:
View of Saddleback Mountains from Park Avenue Nature Trail:
Prickly Pear bloom (the first I’ve seen this season):
6.35 miles run on day 9:
You know, now that I seem to have found some semblance of mojo, it's just a matter of time before we cross paths. But I can tell you this - it probably won't be running up and down Cholla. Walking up and down maybe. But running? That's a beast!
ReplyDeleteIn no time you will be running Cholla. I used to HATE that trail. Now I love it because it's so short. Happy New Year Glenn!
ReplyDelete