Run To The Hills!

I live in the 'burbs just southwest of Tacoma. I go running in my neighborhood out of convenience. It's boring sometimes. But earlier this week, needing to desperately blow off steam, I did some city running and loved every minute of it.

City running is so much more intense and focused, particularly in my old stomping grounds of Tacoma's North End (Old Town). After dropping off my kiddos at my parents, I ascended one of many hills. I had to focus on the ankle breaking raised, old, broken and painfully narrow sidewalks, dodging potential falling disasters. I had to also dodge errant drivers (sorry Tacomans, but lots of you drivers don't yield or pay attention properly for pedestrians or bikers) when crossing the streets. The traffic was flowing, activity abounded on every street from people hauling in groceries to their homes, or business folks taking a sunny lunch break. I could hear sirens, birds, honking horns, laughter, and buses. I smelled cut grass, gasoline, hot cement, and flowers. I ran fast and smooth. So much to see, sense, and do.

However, my favorite part of the run was getting cat calls from some Washington-Hoyt Elementary School 9 year old boys. They weren't dirty, just silly. I laughed with them and wondered why these kiddos didn't realize I am old enough to be their mama.

So, for you runner (or walker) types, hit the road.

Happy exercise!

Kim