Happy National Running Day!

I hope everyone was able to get out today and enjoy National Running Day!  I had a great post-work run with my friend, Brigitte, and it was just what I needed.  I've been in a bit of a self-imposed running reprieve following my three half marathons this spring, with the exception of a few smaller races in the past few weeks, but I felt like I couldn't let National Running Day go by without a run of some sort!

I had a bit of a headache and was well on my way to talking myself out of a run, but Brigitte mentioned that she was going to go for a run.  We work very closely to one another, so I asked if she was going to run at the park near us and when she said yes, I asked if she wanted a running buddy.  We met up at the park and had a great run.  It was just what I needed; a gorgeous night, quality time catching up with a friend, no set mileage, no watch, just a run for the sake of running. It was perfect!

#BAMRsRunTheWorld #StLouis

A gorgeous night for a run

Tonight was a great opportunity, too, to reflect on what running has meant to me over the past few years:

• a beautiful reminder of all that I am capable of, not just physically but in all aspects of my life.  (Three years ago, I would have never thought that I would or could do a half marathon and last month I completed my fifth!  I am grateful for the much needed self-confidence that running provides.)
• setting a positive example for my sons and other family and friends.  Seeing my oldest son participate in 5k races makes this Mama so proud and I know that his little brother won't be too far behind him in the future!  I also can't say enough how proud I am of my Mama for taking on a 5K each month this year!  She is an amazing woman (and a badass) and I love cheering her on as she works toward her goal!
• a chance to re-group and balance myself.  I know that taking time for myself is so important and running makes me a better wife, mother, daughter, and friend.  
• an opportunity to improve my health and lose weight (it's fair to say that I am a work in progress on that front at the moment, but I digress.)
• strengthening existing friendships and creating amazing new ones.  Running has given me the opportunity to deepen existing friendships that I cherish and it has also opened an incredible door to new friendships that mean the world to me.  Whether it has been virtually through the blogging world or through social media or friends I've met through Another Mother Runner (my Napa girls!!) or at races and local running groups, I am forever changed by these friendships.  I am inspired by all of you and I can't thank you enough for the support you've given me! 

 What has running meant for you?  

That's the thing about running: your greatest runs are rarely measured by racing success. They are moments in time when running allows you to see how wonderful your life is." ~ Kara Goucher