Running in Poky

Went on a very nice hill run today in Pocatello. The run inspired me to start a blog. Here's a start...

Nicole had a dance competion in Pocatello on Saturday. Christy hadn't planned to go due to other plans, which fell through. So, late Friday I say, "lets go to Pocatello and surprise Nik". So we woke up early Saturday to make the 4 hour drive.

I had packed running gear. I had to bring several different layers, not knowing what the weather would bring. Winters are always that way. If you want to run or ride, bring the kitchen sink. Just in case.

We drove to Pocatello and went straight to the competition. Nicole and her team did great. They had several styles of dances throughout the day, placing in the top 3 in each category.

After the second to last dance, I was able to sneak out the back door to "find" a running path of some sort. I had been conjuring up a plan throughout the day. Surveying the hills south of the school gymnasium at lunch , I was thinking the area had to have a good route beyond the streets. It turned out to be true.

As I walked through the streets, after getting my running duds on in the car, I realized I used to live in the neighborhood while going to Idaho State some 17 years ago. Wow! I recall tripping over people sleeping on the floor as I made my way out the door to my morning classes. That was how we kept the rent cheap back then.

After passing the old homes in the area, I made my way up a pretty steep street. I finally found some resemblance of a trail to start my run. I just took off carefree as I side-hilled across the weedy hill. After mile or so I ran into gated road. As I started up the road I took in all the brisk feeling of winter but became aware of the beauty of the hills. I noticed a couple walking out in the middle of a very steep area. They appeared to be sneaking across the hill as I drew near. I finally ran into them a ways up the hill. They had a handful of dogs out enjoying the day. We exchanged our howdy's and mentioned how beautiful the day was.

I continued up the hill into an area with trees on both sides. The trees kept enough shade over the past few dry weeks to allow the snow a continued stay on the road. As I took in the nature, I was reminded how nice it is to get out and enjoy life. The road was getting steeper, but having the beauty around kept the run fun. I finally decided I better get back before Nicole received all of her awards.

It was sure nice to get such an awesome run in, even while traveling.