Thanks for asking. Allow me to share with you the reasons behind my abundant happiness:
I recently returned from a fabulous European vacation (thus the long absence from my blog). My husband and I visited London, Munich, and Salzburg. This meant we were able to spend valuable time with my family, explore new cities, try different foods, and experience new cultures. And, of course, enjoy different scenery for our runs. While in London, we ran through the Hampstead Heath with my brother. It felt so good to run on the soft grass while enjoying the views of downtown London. The challenging hills made sure we got in an adequate workout, which is necessary after trying all the local fare. Thankfully, my brother knows the Heath quite well, or we possibly could have gotten lost in the 790 acre park.
While in Munich, we discovered the Englischer Garten (English Garden). Ironic, I know, since we traveled to Germany from England. Anyway, this park spans 910 acres and is actually larger than New York’s Central Park. Since we had to run 3 miles to get to the park, we only made it through a very small fraction of that acreage. However, it was so peaceful and relaxing. After battling crowds day-after-day, it was nice to find a place to run where we could have our own space without fear of being trampled.
Getting in a workout while on vacation is often one of my favorite parts of the trip. It’s one way to not feel like a tourist and experience the city as the locals do. That is until we stop to take a picture…!
Want another reason why I’m so happy? It’s Fall, easily my favorite of the four seasons. What’s not to love about the changing colors, the breathtakingly beautiful sky, running through crunchy leaves, the smell of fall, and the crisp air? I have been looking forward to the cooler weather for quite some time. I sweated way too much this summer. I am ready to return from a run without appearing as though I went for a swim! Once it’s long-sleeved top and shorts weather, I’m delighted.
Fall brings another of my favorite things- my birthday. September 27th is one of the best days of the year. But in reality, I celebrate for an entire month. Though I’m not embracing the aging process as gracefully as I’d like, I’m thankful to be blessed with good health, a loving family, and true friends . This September 27th, I turn 43. I tell myself that number means nothing as long as I can stay healthy and keep on running. This Lifelong Runner can’t be sidelined this early in her life! So yes, I’m another year older. And yes, I am still running. That deserves celebration for certain!
My birthday isn’t the only big event this week, however. I’m beyond thrilled to be coordinating a Prediction Walk/Run for my neighborhood community which will be held on Thursday. A month ago, I proposed the idea to our Social Committee and they have graciously supported this effort. So far, we have about 30 people registered for this 2 mile event in which you win by successfully predicting your finish time. I have a few more days to recruit participants. Fingers crossed it’s successful! If it is, you might be hearing more about it in the future.
Once the Prediction Walk/Run is complete, all my focus will turn to the Twin Cities 10 Mile on October 9th. This year, I’m running as a team with Dan, his sister (Joelle), and her husband (Jason). After doing the marathon the last couple of years, I’m looking forward to the “Shortcut to the Capitol”. Sure, I will have mixed feelings about not doing the full 26.2. However, my body is grateful for the shorter distance. And besides, first ones to the capitol get more beer. Just kidding. Kind of.
Speaking of shorter distances, my lesser mileage has to be part of the reason I’ve been running fairly pain free lately. That nagging Achilles Tendinitis seems to be taking a break. It is so wonderful to take off running and not have to drag one leg along for the first half mile. It is also refreshing to not limp around the house for the rest of the day after my run. I stretch a little these days, which also might help. But the final factor, I think my body just realized I’m not quitting. As long as it’s along for the ride, it might as well behave.
So, as you can see, life is definitely good. In fact, it’s great. It has me smiling from ear-to-ear! I hope your Fall is off to a wonderful start, too!