Waiting for Spring

Springtime in 2010 at the Fetzer 20k

 If you follow this blog, you know that for the most part winter running can be bearable, and in some cases it can even be enjoyable. At some point in the winter, however, I really start to get pumped for spring. It has been pretty cold this winter, and looking through my training logs last week, on Friday the 27th of February I had officially run 16 days straight indoors, including a 16 mile jaunt on the treadmill while watching episodes of "Star Trek: The Next Generation."

Fortunately, last weekend I got outside for a couple runs, and this week I only had to do two runs inside so far. This weekend I'm planning on getting out and enjoying the first murmurings of spring weather, 

There's something refreshing and renewing about spring. The trees starting to show signs of greens, the first run in shorts outside, and the smell of freshness in the air make spring runs something to look forward to and enjoy each year.

Spring means rediscovering the trails that were previously covered by snow and ice. Spring is not doing the extra laundry required from winter layers. Spring is running after work in the daylight, no longer putting on reflective gear and a headlamp for 6 PM runs. 

Spring is tuning up the bicycle and riding to work. Spring is gearing up for the racing season. Muddy trails, running in the rain, enjoying the coming of warmer weather before the heat of summer makes the outdoor running less enjoyable--I love it all.