12 Mile Run

Saturday morning, got a good night's sleep. I have a lot going on this weekend (Todd's birthday, work, traveling to Boston for work), and I know I need to get a good run in. I'm up at 6, big bowl of cereal with big, luscious blueberries and a strong cup of coffee while I get my head around a run. Okay, so I'll get dressed, do all the long run rituals (Bodyglide, Gu packs, big glass of water) and at least get started. Head out going East to the River, running north to the 3rd Ave bridge, a nice easy jog, cooler than usual for August, but I warmed up quickly in the sun by the river. Turn at the bridge, south to 96th (quick detour to a nasty bathroom at the Shell station there - damn that glass of water), then all the way down to 63rd St, where the pedestrian path ends. I cross over the FDR at the 71st St bridge and run west and uphill to the Park. I'm still feeling pretty good - I've done about 7 miles at this point, and figure I'll get to the park, see how I feel, and I can always cut it short if I start to struggle. Enter the park at 72nd, and take the counter clockwise route, much to the annoyance of the majority of other runners who take the clockwise circle. Sorry dudes, I just like going the other way. Eyes on the road in front of me, dodging runners and bikers, I keep an even pace, feeling really great. As I take the turn at 72nd St on the west side, I get a burst of energy, and pick up the pace a bit, paying attention to the road, how my body feels, and trying to stay out of everyone's way. At the 102nd street traverse, I take a right, cutting off the huge hill (wimp!) and at about 11 miles. The run from the traverse to 85th street is packed with the beginning of a race and the usual running groups who gather at 91st Street. Finally I'm at the museum, sun warm on my back, legs feeling strong, but definitely knowing I've put some miles on. Walk home, ready for a shower, snack and nap.