There’s something very satisfying to me about the first run of the season that involves pants, a coat, and a hat. I knew the forecast for today, and was ready for it this week. It was still 35 degrees or so, but with intermittent rain and snow during the one hour, sixteen minute duration of my run (right on pace for 7.4 miles!), I was very glad that I wore my warm jacket and not just a long-sleeved shirt.

Not having to worry about overheating (as long as I’m paying attention) or not being overly sweaty when I finish makes for a really nice change. Of course, I’m sure within a month or two I’ll start longing for warm days when I can just throw on a pair of shorts and a tank top and not have to worry about having all the hats, pants, coats, etc. that make winter running fun and comforting. Seriously, my warm coat is so comfy that its like I have a blanket wrapped around me while I’m running. Plus it has thumb holes and a fold of fabric just inside the sleeve to tuck my hands into if they’re cold. Which is good because I can’t find any gloves right now.

Plus, I love the looks people give you when they see you out for a long run in the snow. I had an ambulance drive past me today while I was running up a BIG hill (Marsac, if you are familiar with Park City) and the snow was coming down pretty heavily for a few seconds. I like to imagine the paramedics are thinking ‘wow, that’s a lot of work – I can’t believe she’s out running in this’!

Doesn’t matter if they’re really thinking that – it’s what I’m imagining that matters. That’s what will get me through long, cold winter runs.