First post-gradution run - still with Laura

So, I went out for my first run post-graduation and sadly I used the W9 podcast along with RunKeeper to track my progress. I was a little over-keen and started at a really fast pace that I clearly couldn't keep up but I enjoyed knowing I was doing the run as a runner rather than as a 'wannabe runner'. Ok, I'm probably slower than real runners, but Laura's told me I'm a runner so that's the label I'm using.

I do an 'out and back' run along a canal path and it is just beautiful. I see so many creatures and there are loads of people walking to work, just walking or running like me. I've lived in this area for 9 years now but I've never really felt like I belong here - strangely the running has done just that. I make it a rule to smile or acknowledge everyone, and do you know, I think 70% smile back. I feel much more settled and grounded and I think it's knowing what's outside my door and knowing I am making the most of it.

Anyone else found the running has had benefits other than the health etc ones you were expecting?

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Well done you. I'm still a couple of weeks off finishing but get what you mean about the canal running thing - the smiles and cheery "hellos" are really nice. I hope it isn't just this canal! (It looks like I'm a few miles West along the Basingstoke canal from you.) Also there are precious few hills to contend with, merely a few inclines.

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Gosh, fantastic there is someone so close - good luck you - I'm sure you'll do these last few weeks. They are tough but totally possible so just keep believing!

If you see a very pink/red faced woman determinedly smiling to everyone passing just smile back and think it might be me!! Hey, when we get our t-shirts we could also invent a special masonic wave so we can identify and support each other!!

All the best - enjoy these last few weeks as they really do make such a difference.

[Frazzles Graduate]

I know what you mean about getting to know what's outside your door - one of the things I've enjoyed most about running is getting to explore all the paths and roads around my house to find out where they all go!