Running for the train

I got a backpack out again this week.


I was contemplating running from work in the CBD to Strathfield station. I haven't fitted in anything longer than a half hour jog for a while and I wanted to go further.


Then I put a friend's backpack on to see if I could fit my work things in it and whether my plan had some logistical chance of success.


Once it was on, I was decided. There is NOTHING like a backpack to make you feel adventurous.


I printed out a map, pulled on my runners, ignored the smell of my socks, and set off. Avec backpack.


By the time I got to Anzac bridge I was lost. Well, I knew where I was (under the bridge) and where I wanted to be (on the bridge) but I didn't know how to get up there. I now know there's a huge spiral ramp. You just gotta know where to look.


When I found that ramp, I felt SO pleased with myself. That's what I love about running a new route, wherever it is; it's all those mini navigational challenges. Everybody else on the ramp clearly used it everyday. They were not congratulating themselves.


Eventually, I made it to the station. I was beginning to question my sense of direction right at the end when I'd followed a few dark, trafficless suburban streets. And then suddenly it was there - all lit up. It's only a train station but the way it glowed after all those dark streets really emphasized that I'd completed a little journey.


After an hour and a half of jogging and map reading, I climbed onto a train. I then sat still for 40min. Then I got home and sat on the couch for an hour whilst eating Ben's amazing pasta bake. Then I slept for 9 hours.


Can you see where this is going?


Note to self: try warming down if you want your limbs to function the next day.