It's National Running Day

...and what did I do to celebrate? Well, I didn't run. I actually set my alarm this morning to try and run since I have dinner plans with a friend after work but sleep sounded so much better at 5AM. Plus Stacey looked like she could use some more sleep too, so really I sacrificed my run so my dog could catch some more zzz's, that is what I'll tell myself.  I celebrate National Running Day 3-4 days a week every week, so I figure I can skip the official holiday.

But in honor of National Running Day I thought I would share 5 reasons why I love running so much.

1. The simplicity of it! You just need a good pair of running shoes and you are off. Of course I've taken it to a whole new level and I'm now a snob when it comes to running shoes, clothes, electronic accessories, etc...but really you just need some shoes.

2. There is always time for a run (except today that is). You don't have to do much planning or drive to a gym. You can just step outside your door and run for as long or as little as you like. I live near an amazing park, Magnuson Park, in Seattle and on days when I have little time I just take a quick run around the park and call it good after 3 miles.

3. The way a good run makes me feel. If you aren't a runner I can't really describe it but a good, long, sweaty run can make you feel so energized, stress-free, and ready to tackle anything.  Oftentimes, this is what gets me out the door when I'm feeling lazy.

4. The places running has and will be taking me.  A great excuse for a vacation is signing up for an out of town race.  I went to Vegas for my first time ever and ran the Vegas 1/2 marathon in December 2008.  It was an amazing trip with 5 other amazing ladies with memories that will last me a lifetime.  Big Sur 1/2 marathon last November took me, Kath, and EY to Monterrey where we spent some quality time with a good high school friend and explored San Francisco, Disneyland and managed to run personal records during the race in between all of that!  And next up...Chicago for the 2011 marathon. Kath and I are planning to take this running business international in 2012, any suggestions?

Enjoying our free beer after PRing at the Big Sur 1/2 marathon!

5. BUT, most of all running has made me some amazing friends!  Even though I knew Kath, EY, Stace, and Rach before running...running races, planning long runs, and traveling together and has been the highlight of the past few years for me.  I've also made some other great friends through running adventures including the Ragnar Relay and running a 1/2 marathon for Humanity for Children last year.

Team Flying V all dressed up.  We are reuniting at the 2011 Rock and Roll 1/2 and I can't wait!

Part of the Humanity for Children at the 2010 Rock and Roll 1/2 marathon in Seattle

Van 1 DONE in Ragnar Relay Northwest Passage 2010. We celebrated by drinking beers at 9am in a school parking lot...oops!

I hardly knew this gem of a lady before running and now I can't imagine my life without her as a friend, thanks EY!

 In non-running related news, I got my camera back today! The repair was covered under my warranty so no cost (except being without a camera for over a month)!


What are YOU doing to celebrate National Running Day?