Thursday, September 8, 2011

Running at 4:45 AM

It is funny to see people's faces when I tell them that I start my run at 4:45 am.  They already think I am crazy for running, but waking up that early to run is really crazy.  I guess that puts me in the ultra crazy category for them.  I do not think anyone can appreciate or understand how good a run that early in the morning feels unless they do it.  I had to do it several times before I appreciated it, but now I look forward to it.  I do not want to miss it. 

I love pulling into the parking lot and seeing 30+ people there getting ready to put in a hard 4-5 miles.  I love that while running I get to look at the stars. I have seen a couple of shooting stars this last week.  I love the cooler weather.  I love the group of people I run with.  We all know what it is like to get up and start our day with a good run.  I love that feeling you get after a great run; I sometimes keep it with me several hours later. I love to chat and joke around with my friends during and after the run or talk about our latest running injury or running war story.  I love watching the sun rise.  I feel like I am living life for the first time in my life.  I am happier, and I have more energy through the day.  I feel like a better person. I think what I love most is when I realize what I am doing when I am running.  The thought of me running 4+ miles at 4:45 AM makes me happy.

A funny side story. Yesterday, someone asked me if I talk about anything else besides running.  I guess I talk a lot about what I am excited about.  I want to share what makes me happy with others.  I see people at the point where I was 8 months ago, and I want to run up and cheer for them and tell them they can do it.  I see people who want to start or should start working out or eating healthy, and I want to help.  I know it is hard, and I know anyone can do it, because I am doing it.  It is not easy, but it is worth it. 

The Chris from 9 months ago would've laughed at you if you would've told him that he will be waking up at 4 am to go run at 4:45 am and enjoy it, have more energy and be happy about it.

3 comments:

Tara said...

I'm so proud of you Chris! You are such an inspiration that you have made ME start the couch to 5k and now I'm bringing my friends along for the training as well. For real, your blogs give me hope that I can someday get to where you are. Keep going fella!

Christy @ My Dirt Road Anthem: A Runner's Blog said...

Great job with all your progress! I get accused of talking about nothing but running too :) I am just passionate about it I guess :D

Anonymous said...

It's incredible that you get up that early, that is something at the moment I could never do.

I'm glad it makes you happy though!