I'll admit it - I've been a "couch potato" for the last few months. Blame Covid, blame the cold weather. I haven't been to the gym. I haven't been running outside. And I've been feeling sluggish.
Yesterday was a brilliantly sunny day. The temperature was 38 degrees. (That's above freezing, right?) So I dug into my closet to find my sneakers and layers of clothing I could wear. (I wanted to be warm, but still look the part of "a runner.")
I started with a brisk walk from our house and headed toward the rec path. I decided, no goals. No time, no distance, no pace, no intervals. I'd be out here just to have fun. I brought my phone camera with me.
Once I started jogging, it was even better than I had expected. Sure, I'm out of shape, but I was doing it. Honestly, it was exhilarating. I recalled the many times I've been out here in warmer weather - yes, even in hot weather. This felt refreshing, although challenging. I watched my step so as not to slip on ice. Even though above freezing, the air was bracing.
I stopped to take photos. I loved seeing the blue tones of the shadows on the whiteness of the snow. I loved seeing the paw prints of dogs and of other animals I could not identify. I loved looking up and seeing the patterns of the white clouds in the blue sky. I truly loved being in a familiar place that did not look as familiar. And I loved greeting people I passed along the way.
I don't think I will ever become a cold weather runner, but when the day invites me, I will do it again. I'll not put off the opportunity. Covid and cold weather shall no longer be my excuses.
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