Only an Addict

Only an addict would plan her running route to end right near Starbucks, even though the Starbucks is two miles from where her car is parked. 

A venti toffee nut cafe misto makes walking much more enjoyable.

It was time to say hello to the Mt. Vernon Trail again this morning; my feet haven't pounded the trail's pavement since my final 20 mile run back on Christmas day.

I was excited to run this morning, which is good, because if you're not feeling the run, it's going to be murder.

I laced up my shoes,

fired up my Garmin and ran

Nope, not 26 miles.  I haven't used my Garmin since the marathon and this is what I was greeted with this morning.

Time to hit the reset button, Alison.

I ran ten miles this morning, which is much more doable than 26.

Ten is a good number and the run was enjoyable, as long as you don't count the always painful first two miles.

I ended my run in Old Town Alexandria right by a conveniently located Starbucks.  I purchased a drink, refilled my water bottle and walked two miles back to my car.  I love Old Town.  In fact, when I grow up, that's where I'd love to live.  The idea of living in a walkable city, and one so rich in history,  is really appealing to me.

I wish I had my camera with me on my walk so I could take pictures of the beautiful homes and old buildings.  But, alas, I left it in the car, not wanting to run with too much extra junk.

When I got back to my car I took few pictures; too bad the sky was so overcast.

This (horrible) picture is of the Gaylord National Hotel, where we went to see ICE! back in December.

Here's what it looked like on the inside.

And here's the view across the Potomac, which is where I took today's pictures.

By the looks of the grey water, barren trees and thick blanket of clouds you might be inclined to think it was cold outside.

On the contrary, we're experiencing a warming trend right now and I ran in capris and short sleeves.

In February!

On this day last year, we were still buried in snow; today it's going to be in the mid 70s. The temperatures won't last, I'm sure, but it's nice to get the kids outside to play.

It felt great to get out and run this morning.  In a strange sort of way I kind of miss the long runs Craig and  I ran on Fridays during our marathon training.  I'm not sure why, though.  I mean, most of the runs were painful, none of them ended with a Starbucks drink and a leisurely walk to the car, and a few of them included me calling Craig a few many bad names.  You can't blame me though, he deserved it I'm a hot head. 

No.  I may be a hot head, but it was his fault.

No really.  It was.

Would I ever lie to you?

;)