"New opportunities, what can I say..."

Just got back from my run a few minutes ago. At first I thought it was going to be too easy, but then my route back home was a tour de force of steep hills.

I was actually only running for about 20 minutes this time, but I feel like that is still progress, since I did approximately the same amount (time adjustments for sharp incline difficulty) in less time, and moreover, with less exertion and more endurance. I mean, I felt good at the end still, despite my exhaustion, not like I had pushed myself to my absolute limits. Which is probably a healthier attitude than expecting to give more than I really can every time.

It's strange. Having grown up a chubby-to-fat kid (depending on the year), I built up an armor of cynicism towards these kind of activities that is still just starting to break down. I'm still surprised every time that I enjoy getting out. I often feel like I must look ridiculous, like I'm jogging like a senior citizen taking those baby-ankle-pop-steps, but then I catch my reflection and realize that I really am running like any normal person.

I'm hoping to be able to run 5 or 6 kilometers by the end of next week. That's probably an absurd goal, so I wont oversell it.

Albums bumped while running: Dizzee Rascal's Boy In Da Corner.

Stay True.

"Time to make my pay..."

"...but put some away for an off-beat day."
- Dizzee Rascal

Yesterday a sudden case of remarking all the assignments for the class I am a Teacher's Assistant for results in me not getting any running done. Spent the day adjusting my rubrics until it was time to catch my Greyhound down to Toronto to visit my girlfriend. By the time we had eaten and gotten back from Downtown, it was already 11:00 at night.

Also everyone has been telling me that I shouldn't run more than five times a week. My thighs felt like rocks made of pain yesterday - I actually wanted to be running around, or just moving quickly, as when I walked slowly (read: down stairs) it was sometimes excruciating.

Anyways, I'm about to make up for it (or not be having a resting day, depending) by going out for my first run in Canada's biggest city. Using the pedometer again, I've mapped out a route of 3.263 kms. Probably a bit less than my last run, but this is a hill-infested area, so I imagine it may be more difficult anyways. Plus it was just sort of hard figuring out a route that made sense/I could remember.

A report to follow when I return.

I was very good yesterday. I ate papaya salad and fresh rolls for lunch, sushi for dinner, Thai-style pineapple shake for dessert.

Alternatively, I was very bad yesterday about spending too much money at asian restaurants.

Stay True.