I went for my longest run ever this morning.

This was also the first time I ran more than 3.1 miles outside by myself. I was a little nervous.

I made three small goals to help me make it through:

1. Just run and don’t think about the distance.

For the most part, I was able to do this. I did have my running app going so The Hubby could track me from home and it would update my pace every time I hit another mile, but other than that I tried to just focus on continuing to run.

2. Enjoy the beauty of God’s creation as I ran around the lake trail.

Oh my. The lake at 7:30 in the morning was absolutely breathtaking. Fog was rising off the water, the sun was just coming over the horizon, and I saw several deer and a flock of wild turkey. It was all glorious! I obviously didn’t have my camera along and my phone was in my armband, so I didn’t get pictures of any of this, but I was taking mental snapshots the whole time.

3. Smile at everyone I passed and say good morning or hello or hi – whatever I have enough breath left to say!

This helped me more than anything during the run. I am an extrovert. I like to interact with people. Since I didn’t have anyone running with me to talk to, I had to come up with a different plan. So many people were just chugging along, pained looks on their faces, but almost all of them either smiled or greeted me back when I initiated. I loved every moment of that and each time someone smiled back, I got a fresh burst of energy to keep running.

Other little things that got me through this 7.4 mile run…

*The World War II veteran strolling the trail with his cane.

*Encouraging texts from The Hubby throughout the run.

*Seeing my breath. {I have mentioned fall is my favorite?!}

*People of all shapes, sizes, and ages being active.

*Knowing that I was running faster than the posted speed limit for boats on the lake! {Boats – 5 mph; Me – 6.1 mph}

*Running across the top of the dam and seeing my shadow striding along with me.

*Finishing strong and getting home in time for College Gameday!

*****

Take a few moments to enjoy the little things this weekend and store up a few mental snapshots of special moments! And share them here for us all to enjoy!