ACHOO! ...RUNNING THROUGH ALLERGY SEASON

 

Flowering pear trees at Warren Co, TN Civic Ctr. - photo credit: Vicki L. Sullivan 3/21/16

HAPPY EASTER

Glorious celebration of Spring's arrival in the flowering pear and red bud trees. The weather has been really nice and the Warren County area has been welcoming the season with an abundance of beautiful flowering pears, cherry, and red bud trees.   

I tend to sneeze during this time of year when exercising outside. This article from a  runnersworld.com  contributor offers very good  help for  planning when, where, and how to run.  

Pushing too hard and fast can take in pollen deep into the lungs. I learned that one springtime in a race along a tree-lined path in Virginia  and pass it on hoping the experience might prevent someone else from having a bad allergy day.  

Little such lessons are really all part and parcel of learning about being a runner and committing to the sport. I've yet to commit beyond a 5 or 10K but haven't ruled out forever staying at that level. Basically, I know any level is all about training, and training, and more training. Uh, maybe one day. 

For the present, I find contentment and appreciation in and for the level I have attained. And, at times, I have backed wisely away from those who look down from loftier heights. 

It's is still a really fine day when I get out there for a 3 miler and a truly nice gift to find I have exceeded that distance. 

I say, "Welcome Spring! Thank you for adding your sweetness, fresh air, and glad new appearances to each day."

THE WEATHER AND TIME- THEY ARE FOREVER CHANGING

It's almost mid-March and soon to be officially declared Springtime. Hopefully, you already know those facts.  We've been enjoying a lot of rain the past 2 weeks amid some very much appreciated warmer temperatures absent of freeze warnings. 

Yesterday, upon beginning my jog, I noticed my 2 youngest granddaughters working to get their kite in the air.  Being that one of my favorite childhood experiences, I walked over to coach.  As fortune would have it a gust of wind swooped it up very quickly and I was privileged to stand by encouraging their efforts while it reached into the sky! They were delighted.  And, so was I. 

Getting outside has it's benefits and challenges. For me the benefits have always been greater than the challenges.  I'm delighted to see more are choosing to bring that attitude into their daily lives and get off the sofa.   Good shoes, for me that would be a nice pair of Brooks, make all the difference in an enjoyable jog, run, or walk. Sorry, can't help but give Brooks a high-five.

Though throughout the year the weather presents the most challenges to outdoor exercise, truly fabulous gear is still being designed and created to enhance the experience. Time, is another story all together.  That's personal to each individual to make the time to participate.  But, there are 24 hours in a day and most any hour chosen will bring big health benefits! 

Check out runnersworld for really encouraging and informative stuff! 

Happy Springtime,


Vicki