Seattle!

Today's long run tops all long runs! Because of a long bike ride (for which I am not conditioned-70 miles) on Saturday, and some resulting stomach issues, I skipped Sunday's long run in The Woodlands which called for 18 miles in some hot and muggy temps. Knowing I'd be in Seattle on Wednesday, I opted to do the 18 miles there versus an early, hot, unwell run in Texas on Sunday. What a great choice!

I got into Seattle, and arrived at the hotel around 9 p.m. I even declined going out for drinks with coworkers in lieu of getting to bed early in order to get up early and enjoy the whole day. Another great decision!

I started my run at exactly 7 a.m. and my route took me through Pike's Market, down to the Elliot Bay waterfront and throught the neighborhood of Magnolia (for which I've fallen in love). Then on to Discovery Park. I had run all of that route in the past except for Dicovery Green. The scenery is amazing, from the beautifully landscaped trails along the waterfront, to the gorgeous panoramic views of the Puget Sound from Magnolia Park, to the interesting, and varied architecture of the residential neighborhoods. The miles just sailed by because there was so much beauty to absorb. As if that wasn't enough, discovering Discovery Green Park was the icing on the cake. A park on the bay with loads of elevation relief, dirt trails through untouched forest curved and climbed and peeked at the bay every so often, giving you the sensation of being miles out in a rural area where peace and beauty capture your attention and every turn brings new awe and a desire to see where the trail will take you.

This was probably the easiest and most enjoyable (albeit, hilly) 18 miles I've run so far!