This weekend I managed to discover another new spot to run (in my current expedition for uncharted running territory!). I had heard a few friends mention Warwick City Park, so we decided to make a family trip there yesterday afternoon.

When we got there, I found a nice, albeit very hilly 2.5 mile loop that follows the water. It was beautiful and very shaded—perfect for a warm afternoon run. It was nice getting a little hill workout in with my normal run!

In addition to running, one of my other favorite activities is getting new running gear! After about 9 months of love, my Merrell Pace Gloves started showing some signs of wear, as in the outer sole that was separating from the upper (on the toe box). As much as I love these shoes, I didn’t feel like they had enough wear in them for the separation to be happening so soon.

Since we are REI members, all I had to do was take my shoes in and exchange them for a new pair! I love REI for a lot of reasons, and their 100% satisfaction guarantee is definitely one of them. If you are a member, you don’t even have to keep your receipts! I was a very happy camper today walking out of our local REI with a brand new pair of Merrell Pace gloves.

I wish more stores recognized the benefits of standing behind products they sell and treating their loyal customers well—especially in this economy!

In terms of training, this week of running will bring more acclimation to my very minimalist running shoe transition. I haven’t gone further than 4 miles to date and  you know what? I love it! I do a have a little soreness here and there from using different muscles, but I am listening to my body and plugging along.

It’s been a while since I have run in the rain, and I LOVED last night’s run. It wasn’t raining too hard, just enough to keep me cool. As I mentioned yesterday, I am transitioning completely to minimalist shoes. I swear I have never felt so right about anything in my running as I do about this decision.

Since it’s very important to take it slow and listen to your body when you switch over, I did 2 last night. I felt light and enjoyed the run, but knew my body was telling me 2 was a good place to stop. It’s amazing how much more you feel the run when you are in a barefoot shoe!

It’s also pretty funny when I run in the Pace Gloves, I feel like I am constantly sneaking up on people! Instead of a “slap, slap” they just hear a light “pat, pat.” They often jump a little when you run by! I guess that’s kind of the point—you aren’t striking the ground with as much force. Your really can’t, or your body would definitely let you know.

I tried to pack a bit today for my trip to BlogHer 2012 in NYC on Thursday morning, but I didn’t get much done. I feel overwhelmed with the task, and I am sure I will be finishing it up tonight. I am SO EXCITED to get some time for adult activities! It will be a lot of fun to meet up with other bloggers and my RIDMW ladies (Rhode Island represent!).

I plan on running today—at some point—in between packing and running last minute errands!