Wednesday, October 20, 2010

I'm looking out for a hero.

So, in training for an upcoming half-marathon... I've been going on long runs.  This past Sunday I took one of those, however, it was not a good run.  Maybe it would have helped if I'd eaten better the day before (sun chips and wine do not a healthy dinner make).  Maybe starting out fast was a bad idea - though I would have PR'd a 5k had I been running one.  Maybe I should have worn my vest or at least some extra layer to keep warm when I switched to walking halfway through.  Coulda, woulda, shoulda -- I know.

However... had I been running, there were some amazing things I would have missed out on.  For instance, wending my way up a curvy, deserted road surrounded by trees.  Well, that part I would have experienced, but I wouldn't have been nearing the top when I'd hear "pa-pat, pa-pat, pa-pat" and watch three runners peacefully glide past me.  Two of them looked to be in their 70s, accompanied by a woman around my age.  Their rhythm sounded like horses trotting on a dirt trail, and there was something down right magical about them.  I thought "Oh, I could run like that if I kept at it..." and the old man turned and looked at me and smiled.

About half a mile later, I'm in a charming part of the neighborhood, and I see a woman and her young son across the street.  They're in my periphery, so I haven't really glanced at them, just registered them on my radar.  The little boy stops to look at a construction site, and then runs to catch up with his mom.  Get this.  He's wearing a full-on Batman suit.  Complete with cape, and he's got the hood on too.  He chases after his mom, and she reaches her hand down to take his, never missing a step.

It was nice to see that even a superhero needs his mom from time to time.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

It can be difficult to coordinate due to our busy schedules (mmmmokay, your busy schedule) but I really think we should start running together again!

A few falls ago we were able to do it a few times a week which then developed into a group effort with our lovely friends on Saturday mornings! And that's when I realised, hey, running is kind of cool. In fact, I think I may even love it!

If only I channeled my love and passion into ACTION! Now therein lies my dilemma. ;)

So on that note, let's dedicate an hour or two a week to do this together. That may motivate even ME to run a half marathon and you know how I loathe races and organized (large) group runs! Thoughts?

Running Chick said...

Yes. But Lady, most of the time I run in the AM, at time which I know you are loathe to be awake let alone run! However - that doesn't mean that we *can't* find a mutually agreeable time each week.

Running with friends is really enjoyable and I miss running with you regularly. Our runs a few falls ago had me in good shape, and I know I benefitted from the extra endorphins -- something I could use again. Will you help hold me accountable in making this happen? Please do. xo!