This morning, I woke up excited to run to the beach. Aldermarsh sits inland, about three miles from the shore. I had been told the beach was a nice run from here, but I hadn’t tried it, mostly due to time. But since today was an unscheduled day for writing, I decided to give myself a couple of hours to make the journey.

It was cold and rainy. Normally, that would have kept me indoors, but I’ve gotten more used to wandering around in the rain just in my week here. Also, I knew that I could wear the rain cycling jacket Erin gave me for Christmas last year. It would keep me dry, and it’s bright yellow, which gave me confidence that any passing drivers would see me. So I put that jacket on over my long-sleeved layers, and I set out for the shore.

I didn’t know the terrain or how long it would take me to get there. But that didn’t matter. The run felt good on my legs. I noticed the barns and fields along the way. I saw some small roads but only one major intersection with stop signs – no light. My mind was on my writing project as I ran and before I knew it, I was at the beach. When I got there, I realized the rain had stopped.

I was running with my phone in a plastic bag in my pocket, largely because I didn’t know exactly where I was going. I thought I might need to call for a ride if I got lost. I didn’t, but the phone came in handy because I was able to take this picture.

Now, I’m back at the house drinking a cup of tea and working up the courage to dive back into my project.

I have a feeling it’s going to be a good day.