Gilsum to Surry

Honestly, did not know what to expect today for this run.   Yes, I’ve been running 3x / week the past 2 weeks …. Yes, I did run a hilly 10K earlier this week ….. Yes, my knee pain has subsided …. Yes, the course was ideal for seeing how things stand.

 

Yesterday I wrote my “Man Plans, God Laughs” blog … if you haven’t read it, you’ll find it in the blogs menu.  I related how laying out plans is one thing, but then executing is something completely different.  Today was a bit like showing up at a starting line many years ago for a race and having no idea what to expect.

 

Well, for at least today things went well.   The course was ideal with gradual down hills and scenic sections where I could just enjoy the surroundings.   I did take frequent photo stops and listened to my body.  I was pleasantly surprised with the outcome.  My fitness level is definitely down, but I see rays of hope.  My legs felt tired, but not painful.  My energy level wasn’t great, but there was never doubt I could maintain a decent steady pace.

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The course started in Gilsum at town hall (where else?) on route 10 and descended 1 mile southwest to Surry Road.  A right turn there and then for the next 4 miles the road follows along with a stream out to route 12A.  The road cuts through a section between two hillsides and is lightly traveled by cars.  Nice and peaceful.  Once out to 12A take a left and then it’s a little over 2 ½ miles to get to Surry Town Hall.

 

This was one of the towns that inspired my run idea - you’d never know the town center was there unless you detour off of 12A.  Beautiful blues skies today and appreciated the tail wind along the last stretch.  Very happy to get this run in the books and get “back in the saddle again”

 

Nancy and I drove the next leg (Surry to Walpole) afterwards.  My fitness and legs will definitely be put back to the test - especially with Joslin Rd (first 2 miles) hill climb.  Once in Walpole we went for coffee/hot chocolate and croissants at our favorite stop - L.A. Burdicks.  And then after that drove across the river to Vermont to visit a few Antique Shops.   Highly recommend “The Cottage by the Brook” in Westminster where we bought a couple of outdoor garden pieces.

 

Now here’s hoping I recover well from today and can get myself ready for Leg 19 without issue – would like to run it next weekend.   That’s the plan, will see if God smiles or laughs.