2 Minutes

I never knew that 2 minutes could make a person feel so disappointed.

I set out early yesterday with the intention of taking a longer loop at the same speed I went with on Monday. The pace felt really natural and relatively easy. I had always thought that these walks would bring me a few free hours to be used clearing my head and lead a more examined life. Who knew that I would prefer to spend the time listening to the gentle rhythm of my breathing. The gentle inhaling and exhaling coupled with the misty haze has brought a sense of peace that has been missing for years. Exposition aside- I felt like I was rocking it. I felt strong, and fast. I hit the halfway mark- 'Ladies' Walk' ironically enough- at 34 minutes and with elation, smacked the light post and turned for home.

The miles on the way home seemed to fly at first. At some stage I started singing a loop of RENT melodies. I was certain that this was the reason my pace started slipping so I forced myself back to the quiet and focused on my breathing once more. The garden centre entered into sight, signaling how near I was to home, and I noticed I was really down on my pace. I couldn't figure it out. I was working just as hard and at times felt I was pushing even harder than on the outward trip. I got home and hit stop with a deflated sigh. I was two minutes off pace. I don't know why it bothered me so much but it did and I couldn't get my head around what I had done differently.

Then I took off my shoes. The heel of my right sock was covered in blood. At some point I got a blister and it must've rubbed itself off. No wonder I slowed down. I am impressed that I didn't notice it while I was on the trail.

I'll be off to Sweat Shop tomorrow to get some more appropriate shoes.

5.15 miles - 9640 steps - 1.10.47