Morning Miles on the San Antonio River Walk
There’s something magical about the San Antonio River Walk in the morning. Before the tourists flood in, before the music starts pouring from the restaurants, it’s a quiet, almost sacred place. The soft light of sunrise bounces off the water, and the city feels like it’s waking up alongside me as my feet hit the pavement. It’s just me, the occasional fellow early riser, and the countless individuals who call the River Walk home.
San Antonio, like so many cities, has a significant homeless population. Their presence is particularly noticeable in the early hours, before the city disguises them behind its daily hustle. Some are still wrapped in blankets, others are stirring, readying themselves for another day in a world that often looks the other way. Running past them, I feel a mix of emotions—gratitude, heartbreak, and a strong reminder of the complex layers that exist beneath the beauty of a place.
As I finished my run, I felt it in my heart to do something small yet meaningful. I stopped by a local H-E-B and grabbed a few snacks and essentials—bottled water, granola bars, and hygiene products—before heading back to the River Walk to share them. It wasn’t much, but seeing a few smiles in return reminded me how even small gestures can make a difference. I'll never forget the lady with the crystal blue eyes and the soft, white hair.
Southbound for Baseball
Edinburg was calling, and I wasn’t going to miss it. Our son and his UTRGV baseball team had a big series against Lamar, the top-ranked team in their conference, at the time.
A big win on Friday, had me waking up eager to lace up my running shoes on Saturday morning, this time for a jog into downtown Edinburg. The air was warm, but not oppressive—spring in South Texas at its best. As I neared the city center, I quickly realized I had almost stumbled straight into a Fiesta parade. The streets were packed with families, floats, and performers, the energy infectious. There’s something about running through a city in the middle of its celebration that makes you feel alive. I hit 6 miles. The furthest I have run since early December.
The weekend only got better as the Vaqueros took the series win over Lamar.
Traveling as a runner means seeing places from a different perspective—taking in the quiet moments before a city wakes up, feeling the pulse of a town in the middle of a parade, and experiencing the highs of both sport and scenery. Whether it’s the art along the River Walk, the warmth of South Texas, or the joy of a well-fought baseball victory, there’s always something to savor along the way.
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