Easter

So it's been a few weeks since I've posted the happenings from in and around my world. A lot can happen in two weeks. Too much to tell. That is why I will only tell you what's on my mind right now. I'm still giddy over Easter! It is hands down my favorite holiday. This year as I reflected on the death and Resurrection of Jesus, I just couldn't help but think on the kind of life He lived. He lived a life worthy of a sacrificial death. Had he been just another man, He would have only been dying for himself. No story there. However, because He NEVER did one wrong thing in 33 years on this earth (that astounds me) He was counted worthy to die for the sins of all, and also worthy to rise again. This is power unfathomable. It's more than a good deal. It's a God deal. I am a deeply grateful beneficiary of this exchange. As such, I had a wonderful time remembering, and celebrating the most significant event in the history of man. It is the "happy ending" and "happily ever after" to the story of all mankind. Every year it means more to me. I hope yours was a good one. I hope you got a chance to celebrate and thank God for the true meaning of Easter.

Living the Dream: March

I did not intentionally set out to find what I did last month. It found me. For quite some time I have wanted to try a running group. I enjoy my solo runs; however I have found that running with someone faster than I am improves my pace. Thing is, I've never been the group fitness type. No offense to the packs, if that's your thing, do you. I find that I motivate me. Company not necessary. Plus, I never wanted to get in the habit of only exercising with people, associating the two and then come to depend it. There are many benefits to working out with others. It's not like you have to choose one or the other. You can have a balance of both. For the sake of this post though just know that I'm kind of a loner.

Earlier this month I met a lady and through small talk found out she ran. It was all downhill from there. She told me about a group that she'd been running with. They meet three times a week to encourage, motivate, support each other, and of course to run. She invited me to try it. If you are not familiar, know that when people call themselves "a runner" that covers a wide range. Anything from a sub 5 minute mile to over a 15 minute mile could be a "runner."  I wanted to find out what I was getting into. I asked about their pace. She said they have "all pace ranges." Vague answer, but given I've been curious about these groups for years, I figured I'd try it. I was restless the night before. I'm usually nervous/anxious the night before a race type event. I had that seem feeling the night before I met the group.These ladies meet to run at 5 am. Even if they are not serious athletes, or fast, it takes commitment to keep meeting at that time. In my head though, I pictured showing up to run with gazelles.

This is my second week running with the group. No gazelles, but I have enjoyed the company more than I thought I would. It's a nice break from the norm. I'm not sure I'll be running with this group long term, but I have enjoyed the experience thus far. Plus, meeting to exercise and pray with like-minded people is not a bad way to start of the day.