I ran like “Buddy” from the movie, “Elf” today. Have you ever tried it? It’s a lot of fun. If you haven’t seen the movie, I also recommend it.
We got a white Christmas in Colorado and about four inches of snow. After my family and I opened gifts and had breakfast, me and Brownie (my dog) went for a run. I used my new Yaktrak and wore this new Under Armour shirt Santa left for me under the tree. (It was snugly warm and the colors were candy-cane happy.)
As I broke fresh trail I started singing, “I”m running!! And I’m in the snow!! And I’m running!!”
Brownie sniffed the ground, then looked back at me like I was a big goofball (which I am), but other than that, we were by ourselves. Even if we weren’t, I would not have cared if someone heard me. There are times when it’s good for the soul to run like you don’t care what anyone else thinks. After several weeks of being injured and finally returning to running I am truly grateful to be back.
Runners run for all kinds of reasons — to set goals, to meet PRs, to get fit, to get healthier, to compete against others, to lose weights and a bunch of other things, too, but how often do we run for the pure joy of it like a happy, little kid anticipating Christmas morning?
Last weekend I completed a 10-miler — my first “longer” run since I returned to running after my injury. All the running I’ve done lately has been pain free and my health is good again; my family and I are well; and it was gorgeous day — I could not ask for much more this Christmas.
Running pain free may not sound like much at first, but I can tell you that all the big things I’ve accomplished with my running these past few years have been built on gradual, small steps. Put them together and they add up to a lot.
Run like no one is watching, and ENJOY it, too — that’s how “Buddy” would do it. He would sing, too.
“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is to singing loud for all to hear.” — Quotation from “Elf
I wish you and your families the blessings of the season!!
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“Aging is inevitable, but growing old is a choice. Lace up your shoes, and let’s go!”
Mileage today: 3; Mileage for 2012: 1,302.