Big Day Out: How To Take A Day Off

We all need some time off to ourselves now and then. For me, a day off from work can be like a little vacation. If I am able to do whatever I like, on whatever schedule feels right to me, I feel like I am treating myself. Afterwards, I usually feel pretty happy, content, rejuvenated, and ready to go back to the grind. 

Recently, I took a Friday off from work and had some little adventures. Nothing too earth shattering but I ended up with 9 Strava activities over the 3 days. Some of these activities were short but I managed a pretty active weekend. I thought I would summarize it in pictures here. 

Friday, June 14th

4:40 AM wakeup and drive from Richmond to Vienna, VA. Met up with my friend Bill at 8 AM on the W&OD Trail and we did what I like to call, "The Kessel Run".

36+ Miles with Bill

At the end of the Tower Climb

After my ride with Bill, I put my bike in my car, made my way to Anita's in Vienna and got some breakfast burritos to go. I chowed down while driving out to Great Falls where I had my first legit gravel ride on my new gravel bike. It was quite fun. 

After my fun but sometimes sketchy gravel ride, I decided to go for a hike and take in all the sites Great Falls has to offer. 

After my Great Falls excursion, I returned to Vienna, got cleaned up, and then went out with some family. We spent some time at Caboose Brewing and walked around Vienna a bit. We even ran into some long time friends and watched a few minutes of live music before heading out for dinner. 

Saturday, June 15th

On Saturday, I woke up before 5 AM as I usually do. Even if I wanted to sleep in, my body usually says otherwise. I ended up hightailing it back to RVA. I made good time getting out of NOVA but hit mega volume between Fredericksburg and RVA. 

When I got home, Melissa and I walked to the Farmers Market to get some fresh veggies. 

After bringing our groceries home, we decided to go for a short trail walk so Melissa could break in her new hiking shoes. 

Sunday, June 16th

On Sundays, I run with the Sportsbackers Marathon Training Team. After another early morning wake up, I ran with MTT. 

After MTT, I refueled and then headed to the park for my recovery walk in the woods. 

I love walking next to the water and listening to the birds. I had a very pleasant walk and then my usual trip to the grocery store. I had plenty of time left in the day so I decided to walk to the movies, watch a movie, and then walk back home.

All in all, it was a very pleasant long weekend of activities, contemplation, rejuvenation, and general fun. I am sure somewhere in there, I also took a hot bath. Maybe.