January 6, 2013

Today is Ephiphany, the day where some religions celebrate the Wise Men's visit to the Christ child.  Our family has always celebrated this day with a small gift to each family member under the tree.  It also signifies the 12th day of Christmas and time to take down the Christmas tree and decorations.  So, much of my day was spent trying to do just that.  It is always so much more fun to decorate than to un-decorate!  Plus, both Megan and Sarah have returned to college, meaning I have two less helpers!
Once I found time to run, I had almost waited too long.  It is still getting dark close to 5:30, so I have to remember to start my runs with enough time to finish before dark. Luckily, Megan gave me lights for my hat and a nighttime running vest to help keep me safe.  I needed these today since it was late afternoon when I headed out.  
I was able to log 7.55 miles today, but really wanted to do 8 or 9.  I decided that today would be a slower run, trying to just log more miles and work on my endurance.  I didn't feel fabulous, but I didn't feel horrible either.  Just an okay running day.  About 4/10s from home, it was almost dark and I was running by an embankment next to a field.  All of a sudden I heard a huge noise and rustling leaves--it was a cow that had been right next to the fence that I had startled.  He startled me too!  I jumped and exclaimed, "You scared me to death!" and continued running.  Luckily no one is around when I run, because people might really get a kick out of the things that I say and do as I move along. 
My calves have really been tight lately, so I realized that I needed to do more stretches to help lengthen them. My daughter Megan sent me a link about yoga stretches that help runners since running tends to tighten certain muscles.  After doing a few of the stretches, I definitely felt better.  Now to continue to do the stretches every day.