On my run last evening...

[alsrnbsn]

I don't run with headphones anymore after having to dodge too many crazy drivers that don't realize that I have a right to the shoulder, too!! (and it's NOT another lane!) Well, last evening, I was running in my neighborhood and use it as an opportunity to go over stuff in my head (Christmas list, gifts, etc) and started to notice the myriad of smells in my neighborhood.

It started out that I was smelling a wonderful wood smoke from a fireplace, then lovely honeysuckle, then yummy grilling. I turned the corner and started smelling mothballs (Christmas decorations?), then a fruity laundry smell (love that smell!). Then along the road, it was pretty much what you expect...exhaust fumes, then came back to the woodsmoke. This lap around I found that it wasn't from a fireplace, however, as there were 2 firetrucks and the fire chief in the neighborhood!!! OOOOOOPPPSSSS!!!! There were some not-so-pleasant odors elsewhere, but I would rather forget those and dwell on the honeysuckle and the laundry smells!!!

Sorry, for the rambling. I just find it interesting paying attention to nature on my runs.;-) Oh, and I ended up running 4 miles, which is pretty good as I had limited time before work!

 

[teddy16410]

Amy-
Running for me was always very meditative... I changed from running with headphones to not because of safety but then I realized how creative I was to problem solving after a good run. of course as you know I havent run in a few years but I loved the all alone w/ nature aspect a great deal. You keep running!

 

[naughtoj]

I absolutely LOVE running outside and really hate wearing headphones for this reason. Even better is trail running out on a mountain where you can't hear traffic and there are few other people. The solitude and inner peace I can have at those times is so stress releiving. It always reminds me of how lucky I am not only to be able to run but also to have this wonderful outdoors to enjoy. I don't feel nearly as peaceful on the street, too much commotion, but I live in the city. I can get trancelike to listening to music skating at 15mph, or running fast on the treadmill. But I have to feel like I am in my own little world. I used to feel like this when everyday on my lunch hour I would hop over a wall to a mountain range and just run. I could feel the crisp winter air and smell the desert plants. Makes you really feel ALIVE!

Reading your post, you took me there. Thanks! ;-)

 

[amyg]

I can tell you each house that does laundry on Saturday mornings along my favorite route... and what type of detergent they use!! LOL

I agree 10000% with what you've posted.