Chasing Shadows

Those times when I go running...My shadow is short and stout - a fear that I hope will never materialise ever again. Other times it becomes elongated - one of the few times I see myself "become" tall. Sometimes I'm ahead of my shadow, other times I'm tailing it, seemingly leading the way.

I took a different route today on the 'back' journey. I was running beside the road most of the time, and whenever I took in my periodic big gasp of air, all it smelt was bad air, bad exhaust air. What can you expect, you asked. Yeah I know that. But it seemed especially bad today. At times when the run got a little droning, I looked down at my feet. The mundane yet steady thump seemed to have a life of their own. But it did help looking at my own feet. I couldn't believe that was how "fast" I was managing. I ran faster.

Today's run started out hot and bothersome. The weather was humid, not a single whisper of wind. But the perspiration didn't come till some 10min later. Was I not running hard enough? I told myself since I had done my run yesterday, today was a bonus. I shall allow myself to do half the distance instead. But no matter what, the sticky weather did get to me. I was ready to give up the run many times during the run. Perhaps was my laziness.

Well I did turn back half way into the journey. And this time, on the way back, I was reminded why I like running at nite. The breeze did come this time, and a good gust too. And it couldn't have come at a better timing - when I was running down-slope. Perfect!

The rush of wind against your warm cheeks, perspiring body, tired soul, just seemed to do wonders to your overall being. It added that additional boost of adrenaline rush, makes you want to go faster, continue running and not have to stop.

Honestly? I wasn't as satisfied with the half-hearted run I did today. But at least I got reminded why I still want to run. And no doubt about it; every run does its wonder for me still. Still feels good =)

I gave myself a good treat in the shower just now. No why, just felt like it. I used my rarely-used strawberry exfoliating body polish and used a luxurious portion to give myself a good scrub down. I gave my damaged hair a good treat again by conditioning it (yeah I know, I ought to do that more often). Now I'm all clean and perfect-smelling. Strawberries! Now where's the cream? Hee...