Well, I was very excited for the first run of my holiday and I set out nice and early (for me). Forgot to bring the running lead so the dog is pulling me along faster than I wouuld like to start off. Ran (too fast) in the wrong direction for 5 minutes (Google said go east, I went west) and then realised that I hadn't started Mr Garmin. . .Turn around and pretend that never happened.
Running in the right direction now, we reach the castle in 5 minutes and the dog is off sniffing and tearing about as we pick a trail at random and start to ascend. The paths are very well maintained and meander back and forth , rather than going straight up the hill. This suits me fine and I am enjoying running up through the woods, stopping every now and then to read the information boards. I meet the Gruffalo in the arboretum.
Out onto a forestry commission road but there is not a soul about. I miss a sign and just run on in a hopeful sort of way. I always get lost at least once, on holiday runs and this time is no exception. (In Wales I had to ask a man which town I was in). I stop to consult maps but of course, Google has left the building. Decide I should turn around as I have no idea where I am going. I do see some of the tougher trails, which we will no doubt walk at some point this week.
I see the sign where I must've gone wrong and start the descent, back on the other side of the castle and on to the road. 4k up and down (plus a bit that I dropped in the bin at the start).
Home, shower and bacon sandwich and very happy with that excursion. Dog had a fabulous time too, he said. Tomorrow, now that I have my bearings, I shall go a little further.
Happy running all!
Run 14/02 - why oh why?
Summer holiday! 
