Why oh why? I ask again, as I leave my husband and children slumbering comfortably in their beds, warm and sleepy.
Why oh why? I ask as I tie the laces of my running shoes, open the back door and step out into the chill of the morning.
Why oh why? I think as I drag my sleepy legs up the hills - and it's all hill until I get to the top after three and a half miles.
Ahead of me my shadow runs along, thirty feet tall. My shadow has legs like Barbie.
Then I get to the highest point on this 6.3 mile run. The sun soars in a blue sky, ribbons of clouds around its neck like a scarf. The countryside below, laid out like a patchwork quilt, is still tucked up in bed under a duvet of mist. Ahead of me Carn Arthur and Foel Drygarn are invisible under a cloud as black as ink.
Downhill now I run on. Early commuters pass me. I see Louise on her bike and exchange a hello and smiles.
I get back home just as everyone else is grumbling from their beds.
The first coffee of the day bubbles in the pot on the stove.
Life is good.
Exactly! It's a great feeling (except when the dogs are nipping at your heels - loose farm dog this morning. Sigh!).
ReplyDeleteBeautifully written - this was a great read.
ReplyDeleteI agree Silverpebble - beautifully written PM. And so brave too!
ReplyDeleteCKx
You could turn that into an ad for sports kit! Lovely writing, a pleasure to read.
ReplyDeleteHow clearly you've shown us (those folks like me who do stay under those early morning covers) what we are missing! You've almost convinced me to get some running shoes. xo
ReplyDeleteThat piece could (almost) get me to lace up and go for a run. You nailed the feelings that I'd nearly forgotten and made me laugh with your 'legs like Barbie' - I always loved that view of myself!
ReplyDeleteAnd I so wish I was running on the Preseli's too. I camped at Foel Drygan last year - magical.
ReplyDeleteI need to do that. I can't leave the girls in bed but I can leave my bed and head down to my treadmill. You're an inspiration.
ReplyDeleteOh and that was a gorgeous read. :D
ReplyDeleteYou describe it so well, I felt I was running with you, although that is probably the last thing I could ever do!!
ReplyDeleteI expect you know why, really, don't you?
ReplyDeleteLike you said, Life is Good and going for a run made you feel that way.
What a beautifully written blog - you almost got me out of bed too. It is just so early though isn't it? Perhaps I should just set my alarm and do it. If anyone can inspire me it must be you.
ReplyDeleteSubstitute walkign for running and I agree with you
ReplyDeleteSubstitute running for walking though and I think you are clinically insane.
Rather read than do, but you do make it sound appealing.
ReplyDeleteFantastic description, Mags. I think I'll just bookmark this blog of yours and flip it up every time I feel the need for some virtual exercise.
ReplyDeleteIt does sound wonderful, but I just know I'd collapse in a heap before I even got anywhere near the summit.
Well, you are a glutton for punishment. You have my condolences.
ReplyDeleteAs an alternative you may wish to try the exercise regimen I have recently developed. See: http://chrome-on-the-range.blogspot.com
Otherwise, your story is delightfully written.
I just can't do the early morning running - it's why I gave up marathons. You almost (but not quite) persuaded me to rethink this. Nice try!
ReplyDeleteWell, the pot of coffee would be good Mags! Can't believe I used to run regularly as I seem so sloth-like these days. Will live vicariously through you and Chris thank you! xx
ReplyDeleteIt's a beautiful part of the world!
ReplyDeleteI just visited my freind, who just moved to her new farm in March, near Efailwen. She keeps rare breed sheep and spins, dyes and weaves their fleece.
Be back to read your Blog again soon, best wishes Kath
I like to get out in the middle of the day in the lunch hour to blow the cobwebs away after a morning of hard slog and get set up for a similar afternoon. Early mornings don't do it for me!
ReplyDeleteI have had to start an alternative blog as Google doesn't recognize me! My fault for not knowing how to change my e-mail addy now I have broadband back again. I am now on www.Codlinsandcream2.blogspot.com but it's going to take a while to load up all the bits and bobs I had on the old blog.
ReplyDeleteOOOhhh you put me to shame - but in the most delightful manner - a wonderful read:)
ReplyDelete