Running in the snow

After a rest from running I have recently managed to reach the 5K distance again. And even better - at a pace of around or above 10 kph.

So proud was I of my achievement, that in a moment of enthusiasm I put my name down for the Wrap Up and Run, a 10K charity run in aid of AgeUK  ... and I have 6 weeks to double my distance to get ready for it!

So, unperturbed by the recent snow and ice, I set off on Sunday morning for a 50 minute run. I worried that the ground was too icy, but luckily it started snowing again and the fresh snow covered any icy patches and made the ground perfect for running.

I covered 8.5K in 51 minutes, so the 10K seems suddenly attainable.
I also realised that as long as I have firm ground underfoot, I am quite good at keeping going. Tenacity is my middle name!

For anybody interested, Actionaid have some good advice on training for a race/run, including training schedules.

Along the river Great Ouse

Today I went for a walk along the river Great Ouse.


This beautiful old cedar tree stands in the church yard of Holy Trinity church.

Walking down from the church to the river, I met this swan, who appreciated the sweetcorn kernels, which I had brought.

Further up the river I walked through the tunnel which runs under the old Iron Aqueduct that crosses the river.

Underneath the aqueduct I spotted this juvenile heron who was looking for fish.

Walking back home along the canal I fed some ducks ...

... and spotted this canal boat which was frozen in.

Then it was time to head home. Time really flies!

Snow

Finally we've had some snow. The first this winter, which - compared to last year - has been very mild so far.

Plenty fell overnight, although most of it has melted by now.
I managed to take a few pictures on my way to church this morning, before the melt began.