Trail Running in Paradise

I know I say it often, and I'll say it again, I live in a runner's paradise.  I really do.  I own a treadmill and I will admit to running on it during my weekday runs simply because it is winter which means it's dark and cold (59 degrees at night - freezing cold by my wimpy standards).

But when I have a chance to run in the daylight, the possibilities are endless.  I got out of work at noon on Friday and met Ang at Torrey Pines for a 7 mile, hilly, twisty trail run on some gorgeous cliffs overlooking the ocean.

This is a cell phone picture.  It doesn't do justice.

The soft surface mixed with the hills and the constant turning and changing of directions makes for such a challenging workout.  When you're finished you feel accomplished and you know that run made you stronger.  I love that feeling.

The next day we went on yet another hilly, challenging trail run.  We finished feeling exalted!  Angela and I may be the sappiest, cheesiest couple ever.  We are constantly talking about how wonderful and beautiful life is and how lucky we are to enjoy this gorgeous place that is San Diego and how great it is that we have each other to run with and share this experience with.  To summarize, you'd probably be so annoyed by our incessant joyful chatter.   But running does that to you, right?   It just feels so good that you can't help but to say positive things and think happy thoughts.  Am I right?

The best running surface...

Maybe I've been injured for too long and I am just way too happy to be back in training mode, but running is truly like a drug.  Anyone that says there is no such thing as a runner's high needs to go on a run with me.

Running helps us to see the beauty and wonder in everything around us.  Last night Angela and I saw the most stunning, hot pink and purple sunset, which we would have missed if we weren't out running.  Being a runner allows me to spend hours at a time taking in ocean views and and beautiful trails.  I get to see the smiling faces of other runners out doing the same thing with their spare time.  We share a common bond.   We should be grateful for this and I think we should all realize how wonderful it is to be a runner.  It's a gift.  

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IN OTHER RUNNING NEWS....

I pre-ordered Unbreakable, the movie about some of the incredible people that run the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run, the oldest and most prestigious 100-mile footrace in the world.  You'll see some familiar names, like my favorite, Jenn Shelton, featured in 'Born to Run'.  Click here to watch a trailer.  You just may be whipping out your credit card too.  It instantly gave me chills.  I am hoping my copy arrives before Christmas so Ang and I can have a special, holiday viewing party.  I really wish all of you lived nearby and we could have a big Unbreakable Party!

I will write a review once I watch it.  Happy trails!