Fairview

Rumor has it that New York is not one of the "easier" marathons. And it's little secret that the difficulties are largely thanks to the "hilly" nature of the course. Of course, it's not really the hills of the 5 boroughs that get you, but the bridges...I think there's 5 of them (that would make sense, eh?), and most runners will tell you they hurt.

So...any training for NY should obviously incorporate some hills...or more than some, really. Fortunately for me, there are a lot of little loops I can run from the house here in Westfield that will get me into some ups and downs. There is a cemetery here in Westfield called the Fairview Cemetery. It is a lovely, and solemn place, marked by rolling hills and open spaces. I've never set foot on the grounds until this morning, when after a great 3 miles with Kira I took the turn while she kicked on down Broad Street for home (lest anyone think we left Abigail home alone, rest easy...Luna was there. I'm kidding, of course. Kira's sister Emma is with us for the week...she's been great to spend time with and is an awesome aunt/nanny/great girl to have around)

I tried to be respectful of where I was...said a little prayer and made sure to stay on the pavement. No spitting (not that I'm really a spitter), no bad thoughts, no stress, no tension...just making my way up and down...4 different routes to the top, each about a quarter mile or so. There were no cars, no lights, no stops or crosswalks. I saw a fawn bouncing along the top of one of the hills and had fun running along. And 2 miles later, I was out on Broad Street heading home.

I know the bridges are longer...and there's a lot of work ahead. But every morning where training feels less like work and more like time well spent is a blessing.