Back on the wagon - thanks, New Balance

6 miles, 6:34 avg pace (yesterday 4 miles)

The last few runs weren't logged - but they were all about the same: 4-6 miles, ~7:00 pace, although the Thanksgiving runs were HILLY (because they were in Pittsburgh). I have been taking much time off with hopes that my hip would mend itself. But inactivity was probably worse than running would have been.

What got me on the road? These slick New Balance 904 trail runners arrived at my doorstep! I had to give 'em a try. For the last year I have been wear-testing running shoes in the New Balance Wear Test Program. Such a great deal - as they are careful to pick shoes that I like and that fit my flat, broad feet. They aren't always the exact color that I would choose but overall I haven't gotten a bad pair yet.

This morning, Buster and I took them for a spin. He loves the snow and the cool 22ºF temperature -- allowing him to offload the massive amounts of heat he stores in his coat. The shoes handle great on the trails -- even the ice/snow covered bridges. And for trail runners, they're pretty light and yet seem very sturdy.

The scenery is always awesome. I am so happy to live in Columbia. Trails, woods, water. Could use some more hills, but there's always Harriet Tubman Ln. To the left is the trail that is right by my house. It leads down to Lake Elkhorn (slightly visible in on the next pic right). Buster is lucky he has places he can safely run off leash (albeit illegally).

The hip did start bothering me - first the groin and then hip flexor and finally the butt. Overall, it was tolerable, but it was only six miles. Will have to keep consistent training but also consistent therapy...and cross my fingers.