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.