I Love Running and Morning Sunrises

Angela at Happy Fit Mama had a great post this morning about the why she loves running. One of the reasons on her list was a morning sunrise. I always relish the sunrises when I go out for a morning run and am disappointed if it's overcast and I don't get to see one. There's just something so completely serene about the sun rising up in the east. It's like seeing a smile.

This morning, I woke up around 5:30 to get in a run. Part of me was wishing I hadn't made plans to run so early. It was dark and cold and I had been snoozing soundly when the alarm went off.

But I had made plans. Jason and I were going to start the run together, then I was meeting my friend somewhere around 2 miles into the run. No backing out. While the first mile was up hill and seemed to go on forever (the hill that is), once I got moving, I was glad to be out there.

I saw a bunny (Jess/Jo) and I knew it was going to be a good run. The sky began to get lighter, slowly but surely. My friend and I fell into a really nice pace. I realized it wasn't nearly as cold or as dark, it was refreshing, awakening.

Other than a run in with a honking, hissing goose that tried to chase us (Jason saved us by flapping his arms and chasing after it, what a sight I'm sure), it was simply perfect.

But back to Angela's post - here are my 10 reasons why I love running.

Me time - when running solo. Time to reflect or simply be present in the moment with no other cares. Being present but also detached at the same time.

It makes me feel truly alive - the wind, sun, pavement beneath my feet, sound of my breath. The cold, the hot, the sweat, even the pain.

Good conversation - when running with A or Jason, I can always count on good conversations even if sometimes totally random. Usually lots of laughing and antics when A and I run.

It clears my head. Plain and simple.

Sunrises - the peacefulness of the morning.

Endorphines - of course.

I feel accomplished - no matter how hard the run is, I did it. I accomplished something and didn't back down.

Finding the rhythm of my own breath and footfalls - it can be quite relaxing.

De-stressig - sometimes a good midday or afternoon run is all I need to let the stresses of the day fall behind me.

Because I can.

If you run - what are your reasons? If you lift, bake, bike, walk...what are the reasons for doing what you love?

Love in Photos

In honor of Valentine's Day - Love in Photos Husband Family and Furbabies Friends Even if you're not a fan of Valentine's Day - I hope you have a wonderful day and remember the loves in your life.

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Where's the Beach?

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