Seattle: 6-7 Mile Run (AA+)

(From some Starbucks)

SEATTLE – Now this was a run. The kind that just gets better as you think back on it.

Went from Occidental and Jackson in downtown (near the sports complex) up 1st past all the tourism, then up Pine, I believe, up some serious hills, across the 5 and up more and more hills, past some domed church and over by the cathedral. I think this is the place where grunge got going. It was hard to tell. Great, great hills though.

Went down about 150 feet, I'd guess…maybe more…and got back down to sea level. Ran back down to the start and around all the sports stuff. Around Qwest and Safeco…even got back where I shouldn't have been by just nodding to security folks. Rad.

This is the kind of running that keeps me coming back for more. There is no better way to explore a city. You get such a feeling of direction and place by running around. Much more than driving. Street level.

Starbucks rocks. I won't tolerate trashing of it anymore. This place is more welcoming than any of the places I swear by…let me use the bathroom anywhere without buying anything as a runner, accept sweaty money, let you sit here for hours doing nothing, cooling off. I've done it in every city I've been to…Starbucks is a home away from home when you have nothing but $10, a change of clothes and a gym bag. Love it.

This city is interesting. I'm sure we could have fun here. Haven't quite gotten a read on the people or the place, but getting there. Woodsy roots, that's for sure.