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January 1, 2006
Granny Legs
I feel like an old lady this evening. It's sort of sad when 12 miles makes you feel kinda creaky. I'm not proud, but I am honest. I did my long run (Not in quotes this time because I finally made it over 1:30 for running time!) on the Old Yellowstone Trail. The Old Yellowstone Trail used to be the dirt road upon which all travelers to Yellowstone National Park arrived. That is, until they built the fancy 2-lane highway on the other side of the river. The trail is still a well-traveled dirt road that parallels the Yellowstone River (and is adjacent to the "Gardiner railroad bed" that I have done long runs on in the past). I ran on the dirt road this time just ti mix it up a little. This summer I grew to have moderately painful thoughts about this dirt road, doing long runs on it in 95+ degree weather and under scorching sun (I can only dream what that felt like now, in the middle of winter!). However, I think those are memories of the past because I had a good time out there today.
The Old Yellowstone Trail extends 7.5 miles from Gardiner north to Corwin Springs. I parked my car 1.5 miles in, ran north to the bridge over the Yellowstone River at Corwin Springs, and then returned back to my car. I knew when I started that the way back was going to be difficult. There was a stiff, cold wind at my back, pushing me along. I resigned to ignore it the best I could! I ran perfect splits, 10 seconds shy of 48 minutes on the way out and 10 seconds shy of 48 minutes on the way back, for a grand total of 1:35:40. I was proud of my even splits, the way back has more uphill and I was running into that nasty wind.
There were gobs of deer in the valley today, I guess since it's snowing up in the higher country they've come down for some reprieve. I get a kick out of scaring deer, it's very easy to do. They get all frightened just because I'm running by, and they spring into that hilarious hopping action. Sorry deer, but you provide me with ample entertainment!
I think my legs will like spinning easy on the bike trainer tonight, so I think I'll do that and some core exercises. Then I'll call it a day!
Posted by Meghan at January 1, 2006 6:20 PM