Runner's of Toronto "UNITE!"... like red fireflies.

It's evident that that I have a high affinity for the blog. I'm still trying to figure out what to do with it. I am just going to keep posting things I'm interested in while I learn what it does. As I mentioned on my last blog, I'm interested in running.

Yes, running. I have always been athletic, either as a part of a team or in individual efforts. As I became an "adult", like most, I found myself with a lot less time and a lot more fat! One day my very toned gay next door neighbour started calling me "Patty love handles". I took up running soon after that comment. I mean gay men are the best judges no?

That was approximately ten years ago. A few races, bruised ligaments, sore ...everything, pairs of shoes and missed engagements later, I'm still addicted to it. Although, winter has got to be the toughest time to get motivated, I still see a ton of people out there. The best thing to do, just like any other outdoor activity is get dressed properly. Watch this video, it's a good start. The key is layering.

Needless to say, comfort is always good. Visibility is also good. specially at night.
By the way... that is way too much for Toronto running.

My layers for today, Jan 30/10 (-9 degrees)are:
- Wicking Under long sleeve shirt
- Wicking Poly cotton blend long sleeve heavy cotton t-shirt
- Running shell with vent
- Light scarf
- Running tights with outer shell
- Ear flop touque to keep my earbuds in
- Long to the knee shorts over my tights... for sensitive areas
- Light pair of gloves
- Running socks and running shoes

If this is not enough... just run faster!

I wear all black gear, so I run with a light. One of the best sights I have ever seen is, on one of my first visits, running through Manhattan at night. Being a little exhilarated by the grandeur of the city and forgetting everything else... including my whereabouts. Panicking just a little at the realization that I was nowhere recognizable. I didn't want to stop running so... I kept running trying to find a landmark. Nothing. I turned a corner still nothing up ahead. I turned another corner, I thought I might have to actually stop running. Suddenly, there was something. Then another. At first I couldn't really tell what they were. They moved like fireflies. Red fireflies? With that drunken to and fro that butterflies have. As I got closer they multiplied, eventually to what seemed to be hundreds of lights. I had come to Central Park, a large number of night time runner had united. They were running through the park. It was an amazing sight. Not to mentioned they got me back to a place that actually recognized, but not before I had run my legs just past a half marathon. The next day I could barely walk.

Since that great night, I run with a light and some money in case I have to take a cab back home. I run with Nikeplus System (nikeplus.com)on my iTouch. It keeps track of my distance and where I am. Also adding to my winter motivation is great music! Besides, the iPad(Apple.ca) will probably be too large to carry. I now run in Nike Pegasus shoes, although, if Asics was to make the old Nimbus II like they used to, I'd switch back. I've started a couple running groups in the past. The latest in my own apartment building, it's a great way to meet people.

Anyway, bed time. I'll update this soon. Next I'll post something about coffee shops, Buenos Aires, Architecture. Who knows. Maybe all will be one!