Hello, stranger

I've decided to knock off the dust around here — it has been about 3 or so years since the last post. A lot has happened since then (mostly good); but there's no chance of a recap post (you don't want to read it, I don't want to write/relive). I have no plan to have a theme; this will be just a place for sharing. So, here we go.

It's not the New Year yet, but I am already delving into a new passion — trail running. Even before completing the MetroPCS Dallas White Rock Marathon, I knew I would need a new challenge/obsession. Given my mountain bike background and newfound love for running, trail running made the most sense.

The only downside of my new fitness choice? Well, most of the trails are way-far-away and/or closed due to December's heavy rains. Fortunately, several dry, sunny days are coming our way, so I hope to hit my familiar, local MTB trails — Cedar Hill State Park, Arbor Hills Nature Preserve and Northshore — very soon.

Until then, the only local spot that isn't closed (but probably should be) is Rowlett Creek Preserve in Garland. As a dirt rider, I consider the tacky conditions not optimal for riding and detrimental to the trail's condition (DORBA maintains RCP and makes the decision). That being said, running the trail yesterday wasn't terrible. I stuck to loops 1-5, and encountered only a couple of sloppy sections. Still, the tacky trail conditions did add up. I had to stop a few times to scrape off a pound of mud and leaves from my new pair of New Balance MT10. 

Maiden voyage of New Balance MT10 (Minimus Trail)

It's too early to say I love the shoes; but so far they're good ... maybe a little too roomy in the toebox (a staple of New Balance sneaks). The Vibram sole is void of mud-shedding properties and suited for dry conditions. At least that's what I learned from about 5 miles at RCP. I would love to take them out to my old stomping grounds — San Angelo State Park. Running up Roller Coaster has to be more fun than riding it! Hmmm, perhaps this race is in my future! Probably just the half-marathon. Could be fun ...