Grateful.

Valentines Day. I didn't think anything about it when I was packing my running bag this morning. The only thing I thought about was how much fun my run was going to be with "Danielle".

  "Hills are speedwork in disguise."
-Frank Shorter

Today we were changing our location to Kensington Metro Park.
Kensington is a 8 mile loop that will put hair on your chest. This route will make you talk less and breathe more. I LOVE IT...but only with a partner!

It was absolutely beautiful as we were rounding the lake. The lake was frozen with spots of land peaking through the ice. The trail was close to the water. With the frozen lake to our left and a steep hill on our right we felt like we were in a Fairytale. The trail wound back and forth with snow dancing around us, the scenery looked majestic.

"Danielle" and I did our fair share of huffing and puffing but neither one of us were complaining.
You couldn't help but see God's beauty. Even in these harsh conditions it was still all HIS design and it was perfect.

Everything aligned wonderfully our run.
I was grateful for the cold crisp air.
I was grateful for the icy snowflakes that drenched my clothing.
I was grateful for the hills that stumbled over themselves, engaging me to push PASS my limits.
I was even Grateful for the sound of my breath as it heaved from my lungs reminding me I was still moving!

But what I was most grateful for was "Danielle".  As we were running along the curve of the lake I saw a guy ice fishing and commented to her. "Danielle, that guy is crazy to be out there fishing." "Danielle" responded "He is probably thinking the same thing about us!"

I take great pleasure in other people VICTORIES. I love playing the cheerleader! And today was one of those days.
Our course was more difficult than our normal Indian Springs route and "Danielle" ran her best since her hamstring tear back in June!

THE RUNDOWN
Time: 1:08
Pace: 8:39
Distance: 8:01

"You can never run a hill too hard; you will collapse before hurting it."
-Adam Born 

I ate better today. Started my morning off with Grandmas Oatmeal and continued eating fruits and vegetables all day.
For dinner we had herb crusted salmon with a spinach and shrimp sauce and all the sides.
It was our Valentines dinner.
And at my place setting rested 2 gifts!!

Andy Got me a BIB Folio for all my BIBS!! SOO COOL!!

One from the Boys and 1 from Andy.
It was the sweetest Valentines.  I not only enjoyed getting gifts but it was equally as fun getting independent hugs from the boys when they found their cards and goodies.

Today was a good day.
I have a lot to be grateful for.

Happy Valentines Day. Even if you did not have a Valentines..Did you take time to Love yourself?
Did you treat yourself to something special? I have a client who says we should learn how to "Romance Ourselves.":  I like that!

Anita