But let's have some fun! Yesterday I hit the hills and ran 6 miles outside in the wonderful morning air. My goal was 4-6 miles.
When I headed out the door I wasn't too concerned about pace and had no idea what was about to happen. The happiness of running outside must have taken hold, and the decrease in pressure since I was still officially in a marathon recovery week, allowed me to stop and smell the roses so to speak. And I literally did slow down a moment to take my first picture during my run. I honestly believed this would be the first and last.
I think often of how I should take more pictures to share with you. I think of bloggers who post beautiful images from their run. I love seeing what they see. But for some reason I don't pull out my phone and take pictures like this. This highway will get busier as the day progresses but it is very peaceful on an early Sunday morning. If I remember right I started my run shortly after 6:00 am. It was a "chilly" 69 degrees.
I truly understand in the past it was more difficult with my iPhone being in a strap on my arm. But now it is just slipped in the left hand front pocket of my CamelBak vest. So easy to get to. So why not do this? At this point, I had already made my halfway point turn and was heading back.
The views from the highway truly are remarkable. I wonder if everyone really does take the time to appreciate the beauty that surrounds their days each and every day. I wonder if I take as much time as I should. I am grateful for this run.
Shortly after this point I made a turn and had to stop and take a picture of the sun. It was so bright and majestic. I figured, why not take one more picture? Little did I know this bright and majestic sun would blind me in the final half mile or so climb up a curvy road to home. Running blind at times is no fun when you are focused on seeing cars around the bends. I deviated from my normal switchback run pattern to ensure I was never in a blind spot to a car coming up the road. Fortunately, traffic was beyond light. I only had a few cars coming down. I didn't see one other runner on my run. I did see some run past my home later in the day though. I know they are out there.
My final picture for you before the final ascent....and yes, there is some uphill climbing here as well.
It was a marvelous day and I am so glad I opted to run early and truly did enjoy each step of my run. I feel I am in a good position to begin training again for my next marathon on December 8th. I am recommitted to my goal to break a 4:20 marathon. I know of some potential obstacles in my way but I can't let them bring me down. I can only control the factors I can control. I am ready to train hard!
Daily Gratitude: I am thankful for the picnic table set dear hubby and darling daughter got me for my birthday. Not only is it something I have wanted for a very long time but we picked it out as a family with each member weighing in some good points for consideration. I am blessed.Daily Affirmation: I bring love into my home.
