Turtles Can Run

By nature I am a shy person.  That is actually how the whole turtle thing started.  A friend of mine gave me a little stuffed turtle who could come out of his shell.  My friend said that reminded him of me.  Running has really helped me come out of my shell and it seems to do the same with many other people.  It breaks down barriers and builds bonds.

One place I have noticed this is on my morning runs.  I have been running on the same trail at least 2 days a week for almost two years.  Many mornings at the same time of the morning so that I can run with my husband.  Day after day we see the same core group of runners and walkers.  I think of them of my trail family.  We always say hey, comment on the weather and wish each other a good day.   A few of them have noticed the changes in my weight and speed and have commented on it.  They are very encouraging, how sweet is that.  I have also noticed the changes many of them have made and the consistency in their workouts inspire and motivate me.  There is a group of men that love to razz my husband if I am running faster than him, that always gets my husband to pick up his pace. It is so funny.  On occasion  I have joined some of the ladies on their runs to chat for a few minutes if we are going in the same direction.  I love my morning trail runs for so many reasons and one big one is all these little exchanges.

The trail is not the only place I have met fellow runners.  On the track, at the gym, at races, online and even at the grocery store.  Runners are some of the friendliest people out there, either that or we just really like talking about running and will talk to anyone who will listen.   This turtle has made quite a few friends through running…yet another reason I am thankful for and love running!!

Filed under: Running Blog